Swords Celtic 2012 Major faced off against Peamount 2012 Girls Major in a league away match at Peamount FC on 18 May 2025, kicking off at 11:30 am. The match concluded with a convincing 3-0 victory for Swords Celtic, showcasing their attacking prowess and solid defensive organisation throughout the game.
Swords Celtic lined up in a 4-4-2 formation, a classic setup that emphasises both defensive stability and attacking width. Lara Lynskey took her position in goal, while the back four consisted of Sophie Harvey and Sarah McGrath as the right and left defenders, respectively, with Cara Doyle and Goda K forming the central defensive partnership. In midfield, Rebecca McCann and Leah Woods operated on the right and left flanks, providing width and support to the forwards, Clodagh Behan and Rosie P, who led the line as the two strikers. Central midfielders Diana R and Clodagh Behan were tasked with controlling the tempo of the game and linking play between defence and attack.
The substitutes for Swords Celtic included Ruby B Wilson, Emma Byrne, Saorlaith O'G, and Harlow McGuire, who were poised to make an impact as the match progressed.
The opening goal came in the 15th minute when Rosie P found the net from close range following a well-executed set piece. Her right-footed strike gave Swords Celtic an early lead, setting the tone for the remainder of the match. Immediately after the goal, Swords Celtic made a tactical substitution, bringing on Ruby B Wilson for Leah Woods and Emma Byrne for Rebecca McCann, both of whom had contributed effectively in the early exchanges.
As the match continued, Swords Celtic made further changes in the 21st minute, with Saorlaith O'G replacing Rosie P and Harlow McGuire coming on for Clodagh Mayew. These substitutions were aimed at maintaining the team's momentum and ensuring fresh legs were on the pitch as they sought to extend their lead.
The first half concluded with Swords Celtic leading 1-0, and the tactical adjustments appeared to be paying off. The second half began with more substitutions, as Rebecca McCann returned to the pitch, replacing Emma Byrne, and Leah Woods came back on for Sophie Harvey, both aiming to bolster the team's performance.
In the 55th minute, Swords was awarded a penalty for a hand ball in the box which Clodagh B confidently converted, doubling Swords Celtic's advantage to 2-0. Just moments later, Harlow McGuire was substituted off for Clodagh Mayew, as Swords Celtic looked to maintain their stronghold on the match.
Rosie P, who had been substituted earlier, made her return to the pitch in the 45th minute, replacing Harlow McGuire, and she quickly made her presence felt. In the 58th minute, she scored her second goal of the match, again from close range, sealing a comprehensive 3-0 victory for Swords Celtic.
The match showcased Swords Celtic's tactical discipline and attacking flair, with standout performances from their forwards and a solid defensive display that kept Peamount at bay. The victory not only highlighted their capabilities but also set a strong precedent for the remainder of the season.
