Defeat for Killes’

Mar 10 2010 by Douglas Dickie, Rutherglen Reformer

ST COLUMBKILLE’S had their first competitive game for some time.

This was a cracker of a cup tie, with both sides playing good football on the perfect Burnhill pitch.

St Roch’s travelled from Royston with an experienced side of mostly primary seven boys, so it was always going to be difficult for the Killes' youngsters.

Both sides had chances, with the visitors slightly edging it with possession, causing new keeper Sean Reilly to pull off some good saves.

The home side's best chance fell to Harmon who shot was well saved.

St Roch’s took the lead just on half-time after the Killes' defence failed to clear.

The second half was totally one sided, with St Columbkille’s taking total control of the game, leaving Reilly in goals as a virtual spectator.

Any threat the away side posed was dealt with by Emslie and Izat who were immense at the back, while full backs Stewart and McLaughlin caused problems on the flanks.

The hard working Shevlin and Cameron in midfield were dominating and were playing great passing football with Meikle and McNally, but it was the introduction of James Duffin and primary five star Luke Reilly that gave the Killes’ hope, after good work by both ended with Duffin scoring.

The Killes’ should have added more but three good efforts from Cameron all went over the bar. The visitors forced a couple of corners but the home defence stood firm.

In extra time St Roch’s took the lead against the run of play, but the home side kept their heads up and tried for the equaliser, but while pushing on, they left gaps at the back and the visitors made it 3-1.

The Killes' youngsters, to their credit, still battled away and were rewarded with a second goal. A superb through ball from Shevlin was met by the alert Luke Reilly who drove on and fired low past the keeper, a tremendous finish and a goal from the young prospect who became the youngest ever scorer for St Columbkille’s first team.

Time was against the home side though, and after almost getting level the ref blew for full time. It was so unlucky for the Killes, but their coaches were delighted by the way they applied themselves, their fighting spirit and the good football they played.

Team: S.Reilly, Stewart, Emslie, Izat, McLaughlin, Meikle, Cameron, Shevlin, Reynolds, Harmon, McNally. Subs: L.Reilly, Crossan, Rainey, Szafranek, Duffin.

This week the Killes face St Conval’s in the league, again at Burnhill Park.