The U13A Premier Division match between Wicklow Rovers and Ashford at Whitegates today proved to be another entertaining fixture between these two squads.
Ashford started the stronger, scoring first after 10 minutes with a cross that caught the Rovers keeper out of position. Ashford continued to apply pressure, pinning Rovers in their own half for much of the first period. This pressure forced a number of errors, leading to a 0-3 scoreline after 25 minutes. Rovers were unlucky not to pull a goal back before halftime when Will McConnell's half volley hit the upright. Ashford then scored a fourth goal right on half time, with Rex Verveen taking advantage of half a yard of space just outside the Rovers box.
Rovers regrouped at halftime and came out with renewed energy in the second period. Jaime Noctor showed his pace and composure, scoring in the corner after two minutes. Rovers, energized by the goal, started to find gaps in the Ashford midfield. Kai Hughes dominated the center of the park in an impressive return from injury. Noctor had another opportunity to score, running onto a ball through midfield and again finishing calmly. Rovers almost scored a third goal when Hugo Bradshaw headed a beautifully weighted ball just inches over the bar at the back post. They also had a free kick opportunity just outside the Ashford box, with Jaime McGowan's effort curling just over the bar.
Ultimately, Rovers were unlucky not to close the gap, but they displayed real courage and fight in the second half.
Notable performances came from Charlie O’Neill, Ben Murphy, Alfie Kajani, and Man of the Match Kai Hughes.
Rovers play Ashford again on Thursday.
Ashford started the stronger, scoring first after 10 minutes with a cross that caught the Rovers keeper out of position. Ashford continued to apply pressure, pinning Rovers in their own half for much of the first period. This pressure forced a number of errors, leading to a 0-3 scoreline after 25 minutes. Rovers were unlucky not to pull a goal back before halftime when Will McConnell's half volley hit the upright. Ashford then scored a fourth goal right on half time, with Rex Verveen taking advantage of half a yard of space just outside the Rovers box.
Rovers regrouped at halftime and came out with renewed energy in the second period. Jaime Noctor showed his pace and composure, scoring in the corner after two minutes. Rovers, energized by the goal, started to find gaps in the Ashford midfield. Kai Hughes dominated the center of the park in an impressive return from injury. Noctor had another opportunity to score, running onto a ball through midfield and again finishing calmly. Rovers almost scored a third goal when Hugo Bradshaw headed a beautifully weighted ball just inches over the bar at the back post. They also had a free kick opportunity just outside the Ashford box, with Jaime McGowan's effort curling just over the bar.
Ultimately, Rovers were unlucky not to close the gap, but they displayed real courage and fight in the second half.
Notable performances came from Charlie O’Neill, Ben Murphy, Alfie Kajani, and Man of the Match Kai Hughes.
Rovers play Ashford again on Thursday.
