Rathcoole FC over 35s travelled to face agp in a league away match at 2:00pm on 27 September 2025, emerging with a 3-0 victory after a commanding display over 90 minutes plus added time. The match was notable not only for Rathcoole’s clinical finishing but also for a dramatic conclusion featuring three red cards in the final moments.
Rathcoole lined up in a 1-1 formation, deploying Dan Marrone in goal behind a back zero of defenders covering right, central, and left defensive roles. The midfield was packed with one player, Robert McCarthy - AKA Chipster. Up front, the soloist consisted of forward, Chris McGlynn as the central striker, expected to press high and create scoring opportunities. The substitutes bench was empty for this fixture.
From the outset, Rathcoole showed intent, with Robert McCarthy testing the opposition goalkeeper inside the first minute, though his effort was comfortably saved. The early pressure paid dividends in the 15th minute when Dan Marrone stepped up to convert a penalty, giving Rathcoole the lead and setting the tone for the rest of the match.
Ten minutes later, the visitors doubled their advantage through Robert McCarthy, who capitalised on a frantic goalmouth scramble. The goal came courtesy of a clever flicked assist from Chris McGlynn, with McCarthy finishing from close range using an unconventional part of his body to slot the ball home.
Despite their lead, Rathcoole’s Robert McCarthy was involved in a controversial moment in the 36th minute, committing a high tackle that conceded a penalty to agp. However, the visitors’ defence held firm, and the penalty was missed, keeping the scoreline intact at half-time.
The second half saw Rathcoole maintain control, though Chris McGlynn was denied a chance to extend the lead when he struck the post from a penalty awarded to Rathcoole in the 55th minute. This miss did little to dampen their attacking threat.
At 66 minutes, McCarthy’s lapse in concentration nearly cost Rathcoole, but Chris McGlynn’s timely tackle prevented a clear chance for agp, showcasing the striker’s defensive commitment as well as his offensive prowess.
As the match neared its conclusion, Dan Marrone produced a key long pass in the 89th minute that created a golden opportunity for Chris McGlynn. The striker responded spectacularly with an overhead kick from outside the box, using his left foot to score a stunning third goal for Rathcoole. An offside flag controversially denied a second goal for McGlynn in the same minute, a decision that appeared harsh given the quality of defending.
The final moments descended into chaos as three players from Rathcoole received red cards in quick succession. Dan Marrone was dismissed for diving, Chris McGlynn for spitting, and Robert McCarthy for offensive language and/or gestures, leaving the team to finish the match with zero men on the pitch.
Despite the tumultuous ending, Rathcoole FC over 35s secured a comprehensive 3-0 victory away at agp, demonstrating clinical finishing and resilience throughout the match - but most importantly, securing promotion by finishing 2nd in Division 3!
