Confey’s Under 16 side have pushed themselves back into the promotion battle with 7 points from the last three games. Following on a creditable draw on St Patrick’s Day with league leaders St Francis Confey and having been awarded a walk over from Mount Merrion who failed to show. Last weekend the green machine secured a very impressive away win against St Josephs in Sallynoggin. Confey s latest away win comes against the background of serious injuries and suspensions. Captain Paul Field is now beginning his recovery from a broken wrist; keeper Aidan Mc Donnell has been out for several weeks with an ankle problem, while Darragh O Boyle may be out for some time following reoccurrence of a back problem. Confeys Sean Casey has also been out due to suspension which has stretched the squad but also given opportunities for other players to shine. Confey welcomed back David Daniels following his appendix operation and Andy Whelan to strengthen the back four. Jude Kambidica backed up his recent good performance against St Francis with a steady display at left full back. The bead rock for Confeys success was steady defensive work as a unit by our defence that was well marshalled by Confeys most consistent player Conor Mc Loughlin. Confey were in attacking mode from the kick off in D.N.G. Park and drove the St Joseph’s side back for long periods in the first half. Confey forced several corners and managed to hit the bar and the post. The St Joseph’s number 1 also saved one handed when the ball was goal bound and the home side cleared off the line. Confey were awarded a deserved penalty when Striker Stephen Galavan was upended in the box. Confey ice man Jason O Connor struck his shot well but was thwarted by an excellent save. The visitors’ although not ahead had completely dominated the first half. Confey centre mid field partnership of Jason O Connor and Rudi Eloma were running the show. Early in the second half excellent build up play involving Collie May and Eoin Spillane resulted in the break through when Stephen Galavan broke the deadlock. Confey went on to score a second again from Galavan following concerted pressure on the home side. The game ended early when St Josephs conceded defeat when one of their players was injured and an ambulance had to be called. This was a quality performance from a determined Confey side that knows it can not afford anymore slip ups if they are to get in medal contention this season. Team : David Michael Sterio, David Daniels, Jason O Connor, Conor Mc Loughlin, Jude Kambidica, Rudi Eloma, Steven Nicholas, Collie May, Andrew Whelan, Stephen Galavan, and Eoin Spillane. Substitutes :Paddy Kabangu and Daniel Dumitru, Substitutes not used: Stephen Doran and Graham Smith Not available for selection : Aidan Mc Donnell, Darragh O Boyle, Paul Field, Charles Mohr and Sean Casey Scorers : Stephen Galavan (2)
