Rathcoole FC's over 35s team faced off against St. Ita's o35s N3 in a thrilling cup match at their home ground in Rathcoole on 26 April 2025. The match kicked off at 4:00pm and concluded with a resounding 4-1 victory for Rathcoole, showcasing their attacking prowess and resilience throughout the game.
Rathcoole lined up in a 3-1-4-2 formation, designed to provide a solid defensive base while allowing for fluid attacking transitions. Colm Tully took his place in goal, shielded by a back three consisting of Gary Ryan in the centre, flanked by Adrian Whelan on the right and Simon Doyle on the left. Luke Keegan operated as a lone central midfielder, tasked with linking defence and attack. The midfield quartet featured Johnny Paun on the right, David Doyle and Will Moran centrally, and Paul Moran on the left, providing width and creativity. Up front, Beano Corrigan and Sammi Idris formed a dynamic partnership, looking to exploit any defensive lapses from St. Ita's.
The substitutes for Rathcoole included Colly O'Neil, Tiago Faria, Noel Brennan, Shane Hyland, Ken Browne, and Chris McGlynn, ready to make an impact as the match progressed.
The match began with St. Ita's taking an early lead in the 11th minute through a stunning direct free-kick from long range, executed with precision by one of their players. This early setback forced Rathcoole to regroup and respond quickly to the challenge.
As the first half unfolded, Rathcoole struggled to find their rhythm, and tensions flared, resulting in a flurry of yellow cards. Beano Corrigan received a caution in the 35th minute, followed closely by Sammi Idris and Johnny Paun, both booked in the 36th minute. The half concluded with Rathcoole trailing 1-0, but the players remained determined to turn the tide in the second half.
The second half saw immediate changes as Rathcoole made two substitutions at the break, bringing on Tiago Faria for Sammi Idris and Colly O'Neil for Will Moran. The fresh legs injected new energy into the team, and it paid off just four minutes into the half. Gary Ryan equalised in the 49th minute, capitalising on a well-placed assist from Paul Moran, sending the home crowd into raptures.
Rathcoole continued to build momentum, and just three minutes later, Beano Corrigan put them ahead with another goal, again assisted by Paul Moran. The home side was now firmly in control, leading 2-1 and looking to extend their advantage.
As the match progressed, Paul Moran found himself in the referee's book in the 62nd minute, receiving a yellow card for a late challenge. Colly O'Neil followed suit in the 66th minute, as the match became increasingly physical.
In the 69th minute, Rathcoole made another substitution, with Noel Brennan replacing David Doyle, further bolstering their attacking options. The breakthrough came in the 70th minute when Johnny Paun scored, assisted by Beano Corrigan, extending Rathcoole's lead to 3-1 and putting them in a commanding position.
Gary Ryan received a yellow card in the 75th minute, as Rathcoole's players continued to battle fiercely. The final substitutions saw Shane Hyland come on for Johnny Paun in the 76th minute and Ken Browne replace Luke Keegan in the 80th minute, as Rathcoole looked to maintain their lead.
Noel Brennan capped off a fantastic performance by scoring Rathcoole's fourth goal in the 81st minute, sealing a comprehensive victory. The match concluded with Chris McGlynn replacing Beano Corrigan in the 85th minute, as Rathcoole comfortably saw out the remainder of the game.
In the end, Rathcoole FC's over 35s team showcased their resilience and attacking flair, securing a well-deserved 4-1 victory over St. Ita's o35s N3, advancing in the cup competition with confidence and style.
