Lismore AFC U13s 0–2 Ardmore
Our U13 side travelled to Ardmore on Wednesday evening for their first cup game following the break, eager to build on their first win of the year before the split and carry that momentum into the second half of the season.
The first half was arguably the best football this Lismore U13 side has played all year. Precise, relentless and full of confidence, the lads produced some incredible passages of play, moving the ball with purpose and creating chance after chance.
Their persistence nearly paid off when Noah Quinn unleashed an effort that crashed against the underside of the crossbar. Somehow, the ball bounced away without crossing the line. Lismore continued to press, with more fantastic creativity eventually finding debutant Paddy Barry with a great opportunity, only for his effort to sail just over the bar.
Despite being unable to find the breakthrough, Lismore went into half time at 0–0 knowing they had produced an outstanding first-half performance. The message at the break was simple: keep playing with the same intensity, belief and attacking intent that had made the opening 30 minutes so impressive.
Unfortunately, football can be cruel. A wonderful strike from the edge of the box saw Ardmore take an unlikely lead, despite Lismore having controlled so much of the game.
The lads refused to let their heads drop. They continued to work tirelessly, showing tremendous passion and determination as they searched for an equaliser. However, an organised and stubborn Ardmore defence managed to withstand the pressure and keep Lismore at bay.
As the game entered its latter stages, tired legs began to show, with Lismore continuing to push forward in search of a way back into the match. A late tackle resulted in Ardmore being awarded a penalty, which they dispatched expertly to double their advantage.
Despite their best efforts until the final whistle, the game finished 2–0 to Ardmore — a harsh result for an ever-improving Lismore side who had played some outstanding football, particularly in the first half.
The result may not have gone their way, but there is plenty to be positive about. This is a group of players who continue to improve, continue to believe and, most importantly, refuse to be outworked by any team they face. If they can continue to play with the same quality, determination and togetherness shown today, the future looks very bright for this Lismore U13 side