Esker Celtic 3 vs 2 Malahide Utd U14

In a challenging encounter, Malahide United faced their third consecutive defeat against Esker Celtic, renowned for their anti-football approach and proficiency in long-ball tactics. The lads endured a tough day at the office, starting on a sour note as the first of many long balls from Esker went over the defense and found the net in the opening 10 minutes.

After conceding the early goal, Malahide settled into the game, showcasing glimpses of good football despite the adverse pitch conditions. Luck Collins was, unfortunately, denied a clear penalty after being brought down in the box. Nevertheless, in the 24th minute, the team executed a beautifully crafted goal, emphasising their commitment to ball recycling and quick movements. Dylan, Eoghan, Finn, Liam, and Cillian orchestrated an intricate sequence, culminating in Luke Collins finishing into the top corner to level the score at 1-1.

The boys persisted in their efforts to play the ball on the ground, resisting the temptation to resort to the long-ball tactics employed by Esker. Around the 30-minute mark, a goalkeeping error from Esker led to a corner for Malahide. Gearoíd's delivery resulted in a goal as the ball glanced off a defender's head and beat the keeper, giving Malahide a 2-1 lead at halftime.

However, the second half saw a drop in Malahide's performance levels, making it a challange to maintain possession. Esker capitalised on their preferred strategy, launching another long ball that led to a corner. After a series of corners, Esker's No16 had a free header from six yards out, equalising the score at 2-2.

As Malahide pushed for a third goal, an unfortunate defensive error allowed Esker to take the lead with a tame shot at the far post, making it 3-2. Despite the lads' efforts to secure an equaliser, time ran out, and they concluded the match with a 3-2 defeat. Despite the scoreline we defended well at times with Oliver and Conor pairing up as CB partners for the first time this season and a special mention to Larry who played his first game since his serious leg injury sustained at the start of the season.

Esker's tactics were evident, relying on long balls and disruptive tackles to break up play. While Malahide may have succumbed to another loss against this opponent, the team can take pride in their commitment to playing football the right way. Unfortunately, victories are not always guaranteed.