A Felim McMahon goal on 60 minutes, proved to be the match winner as Belvedere won 1 - 0 over Saint Joseph's Boys in the SFAI National Under 14 Goodson Cup Final, at the AUL Complex, Clonshaugh. Joeys had the better of the play in the opening period and they really had Belvo on the back foot for a while. Despite some hairy moments in defence, Belvo managed to deny Joeys a goal, thanks mainly to the Under 13's keeper, Peter Lyons, who had a great game. Gradually, Belvo began to impose themselves on the game and they were soon causing problems for Joey's defence. Chances on goal, however, for both teams, were limited to some long range shots, and at half time it remained scoreless. Colin Pugh replaced Stephen Caffrey for the second half as Karl Byrne switched to play up front with David Connolly. This proved to be a good tactical move, as both Byrne's and Connolly's pace worried the Joey's defence. Pugh was also impressive on the ball at times, as he created some great openings with his intelligent use of the ball. Indeed, Pugh was instrumental in Belvo's winning goal when he found McMahon with a neat pass just outside the penalty area. McMahon hit a "sizzler" from 25 yards, which gave the keeper no chance. With 10 minutes remaining, Joeys threw everything they had at Belvo in search of an equaliser. But, with Gary Breen commanding at centre back, the Belvo defence remained solid and held out to keep a clean sheet. At the final whistle, there were scenes of great celebration as Belvo won the Goodson Cup for the first time ever. And to round off a great day for Belvedere, Karl Byrne was also presented with the man of the match award. Manager Damien Byrne and his assistants Gerry Fitzgerald and Fran Pierce were delighted with the team's performance on the day, despite not having a full squad available, due to players on holidays.

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Belvedere clinched the SFAI Under 16 Barry Cup at the second time of asking on Sunday, after a tense, hard fought replay at the AUL Complex, Clonshaugh. After both sides played out a 1 - 1 stalemate last Sunday, a Timmy Purcell goal, mid-way through the second half was enough to win it for the "boys in blue".

Home Farm had the better of a nervous opening period, when neither side really settled. Although they didn't create any clear-cut chances, they had Belvo's defence on the back foot with a few early corner kicks. After this early spell, both sides struggled to create, as they battled for mid-field supremacy. It wasn't until the latter stages of the first half that either side managed to threaten the opposition's goal in any serious way. Shane Roche in goal for Belvo, turned a long shot over the bar, but didn't really have too much to do for the rest of the match. Belvo front man Keith Treacy forced a good save from the Farm keeper with a swerving, dipping shot from outside the penalty area. Belvo's midfield duo of Mark Healy and Scott Weir were beginning to get the better of their opposite numbers as the Belvo forced a few corner kicks of their own. From one of these corner kicks, delivered by Conor Lenihan, centre back James Lee headed just wide. With Belvedere now piling on the pressure, the half time whistle came too soon, as they began to get on top.

After the restart, Belvo soon began to find their feet again, with the mid-field dominating and feeding wide players, Conor Lenihan and Shane Fitzgerald, who threatened the Farm's defence with some great runs. Up front, both Treacy and Purcell were causing problems with their pace and movement. Treacy drifted wide towards the right touch-line to collect a clever pass from mid-field. He ghosted past two Home Farm defenders before shooting straight at the keeper. Treacy continued to make runs down the channels, dragging the Farm defence all over the place. As Belvo piled on the pressure, left full, Conor Powell went on some mazy runs, which had the Farm scrambling to defend. With Weir and Healy winning everything in mid-field, a goal looked like it was only a matter of time. The decisive movement came as the Farm's defence failed to deal with a through pass from Weir. Purcell gave chase, as the ball reached the penalty area, and he was on hand to capitalise on a misunderstanding between the Farm's defender and keeper, to slot the ball into the net.

Home Farm rallied and tried to get back into the game, but they couldn't find a way through Belvo's water tight defence of Mark Keane  and James Lee at centre back, Sean Fay and Conor Powell at full back. Down the other end, Treacy, Purcell and Lenihan continued to cause trouble for the Farm's defence on the break. With ten minutes left on the watch, substitute Ian Rennicks came off the bench to replace Fitzie. Belvo held firm as they dealt with anything Home Farm threw at them and at the final whistle ran out deserved winners. Both teams will meet again, later this week, as they fight head to head for the DDSL Under 16 Premier League title.

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It's always nice to finish your league programme with a win. But, to win in such a way as these bunch of players did tonight, makes you wish that next season would start on Saturday!!

Karl Byrne blasted home from 8 yards following a neat build up, which saw Keith Fagan cross the ball to the far post, where Colin Pugh simply nodded the ball down to the on-rushing Byrne. The industrious David Connolly and his strike partner for tonight, Stephen Caffrey caused havoc in the Farm defence throughout the first half, but failed to add to the score line. Farm equalized early in the second half after a corner kick was only partially cleared. Normal service was resumed a short time later, when, the outstanding Byrne, curled the ball around the outstretched hand of the keeper, from just outside the box on the left hand side. From then on there was only going to be one winner of this game, with a superb team display from Belvedere. Danny Langan replaced Fagan, Mark Scallan replaced Robert lawless and Kevin Dawson came on for Caffrey. With four U-13's on the team now, the rhythm and style never changed, and Connolly was rewarded with his great work, with a turn and shot into the bottom corner, after a good build up involving Pugh and Felim McMahon.

Farm got another goal back with 10 minutes left. But with "The Rocket" Connolly in such fine form, the final chapter was left for him to write. With 4 minutes to go, he took control of the ball just inside the Farm half, ran at the defence, beat a couple of players, and from the narrowest of angles, let fly and almost burst the net with the power of his shot. If it had missed the target it probably would have ended up on the far side of the Tolka River!

Team: P.Lyons, J.Cumberton, K.Cox, R.Lawless(M.Scallan), F.McMahon, C.Pugh, K.Byrne, K.Fagan(D.Langan), C.Sheridan, D.Connolly, S.Caffrey(K.Dawson).

The match started brightly with both teams creating chances, but the defences were on top. However, as the first half went on, Home Farm began to take control of the mid-field, as they passed the ball around intelligently. Belvo tried to counter, but they began to drift deeper into defence, leaving even more space in mid-field. Farm attacked repeatedly as they stretched the Belvo rear guard to the limits. On 22 minutes, a neat through pass from the Farm mid-fielder caught the Belvo defence square, and, as the Farm winger raced into the penalty area he was bundled over, for a penalty kick, which was converted. Belvo struggled to get back into the game but managed to keep the score at 1 - 0 at the half time whistle. After the break Belvo really upped their performance and they began to dominate the play. Timmy Purcell came on up front to replace Conor Lenihan, as Keith Treacy moved to the left side of mid-field. Belvo were rewarded on 17 minutes when Treacy scored a well taken goal, following a period of strong pressure. Further chances were created by Belvo, but the finishing was off target. Michael Mooney lead the attack, as he found Shane Fitzgerald on the right flank. Fitzie raced past the Farm full back, before delivering a great cross, which was met by the in-rushing Purcell, who shot wide, when a goal looked certain. With no further score, the game went into extra time and ended 1 - 1. Both teams must meet again in a replay next Sunday, at the AUL Complex, at 12.30.

This game was played, and won ON the pitch, rather than off it, as has been the case in this age group, which has seen both this SFAI Cup Final, and the DDSL Thunder Cup Final cancelled, because of pettiness and football politics, orchestrated by men who have no regard for the fact, that under 14 boys have been denied, what should have been, the biggest days out in their football lives.

On the pitch it was a game in which the home side started brightly, gaining three corners in a row in the first five minutes, which were dealt with superbly, by a defence which was to prove to be the backbone of this great victory. On ten minutes Cillian Sheridan played a ball inside the Orchard's right back for Paul Cahillane to chase onto. With their keeper coming out to claim the ball and the defender trying to shield it for him, Cahillane somehow managed to get his left foot around the defender and connected with the ball and send it past the keeper and into the far corner of the net.

Belvedere were buoyed by this goal and they almost went two up with seven minutes of the first half remaining. Bryan Lonergan rounded the left back and sent in a cross for Sheridan to catch on the volley. His effort came back off the cross bar and came back to him. Being off balance, he wasn't able to get the right connection on the ball to send it home. With two minutes left in the first half, Orchard were awarded a dubious penalty, which they put away. Half time, 1-1.

The second half started with both sides having a fair share of the play, but not creating many chances, until the tenth minute. With Lonergan on the ball on the right wing, he cut inside and from 30 yards, lobbed the keeper with a cross, come shot! The next few minutes were to prove vital for Belvo, as they kept their focus and played some good football. With nine minutes remaining on the clock, Cahillane raced down the left and put over a pin-point cross for the on-rushing Sheridan to make no mistake this time, with a blistering volley that nearly burst the net. Wild celebrations ensued. Garry Breen and Robert Lawless were superb, marshaling the centre of defence throughout the game. Also, front players David Connolly and Karl Byrne, despite not getting on the score-sheet, did trojan work in holding the ball up and closing down the Orchard's back line, when they tried to break out of defence. Peter Lyons, the Under13's keeper, had a busy day and acquitted himself well and was delighted to have played his part in helping his fellow clubmates reach their first ever All Ireland Final. Both full backs Keith Cox and Niall Guilfoyle, despite having to deal with the free rolling Donal McDermott, managed to have good games. Felim McMahon, the unsung hero, was outstanding in the centre of midfield despite carrying an injury throughout the game. Keith Fagan replaced Sheridan for the last 5 mins and slotted into the pace of the game. Well done boys!

Team: P.Lyons, N.Guilfoyle, K.Cox, G.Breen, R.Lawless, C.Sheridan (K.Fagan), B.Lonergan, F.McMahon, D.Connolly, K.Byrne, P.Cahillane. Subs not used: C.Pugh, S.Caffrey, J.Cumberton. (B.Bonny - inj).

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 Tuesday 25th May

Following their disappointing performance on Sunday, Belvedere bounced back with a great 3 - 1 win over Lourdes Celtic at Fairview Park, on Tuesday. Right from the kick off, Belvo piled on the pressure and had a number of chances on goal in the early stages of the game. The breakthrough came on12 minutes, following a lovely passing movement, which found Shane Fitzgerald on the right flank. Fitzie raced past the full back before delivering an excellent cross into the box for Michael Mooney to head home. Belvo continued to pressurise the Lourdes defence, and only for some poor finishing, they might have gone further ahead. With 10 minutes left in the first half, Belvo lost their captain Mark Healy, when he was dismissed for a second yellow card offence. Fitzie dropped back to right midfield, while Ian Rennicks filled in for Healy the centre. Early into the second half, disaster struck, when some indecision at the back by Belvo, allowed Lourdes in to score an easy equaliser. For a while, 10 man Belvo were on the back foot, as Lourdes threw everything into attack. However, Belvo regrouped and defended well and were soon back controlling the game. Belvo won a free kick, for a foul on Fitzie, out on the right. Conor Lenihan floated in a dangerous in-swinging ball into the box and Mark Keane headed home, in off a defender, to make it 2 - 1. Within a minute, Belvo scored again, when Fitzie outpaced the Lourdes' defence, before neatly passing the ball into the corner of the net, to put the result beyond doubt. This was a great second half performance from 10 man Belvo, and the win keeps their league title challenge on course, with 2 matches remaining.

Football unday 23th May

Football is a funny old game, and this was proven to be the case at Fairview Park on Sunday, as league title contenders Belvedere lost 2 - 0 to local rivals Sheriff Y.C. In very physical game, played on a tight pitch, Belvedere found themselves 2 - 0 down after only 20 minutes, as they were punished by Sheriff for some poor defending. Belvo tried hard to get back into the game with a goal, but they were unable to do so by half time. Ian Rennicks replaced Gerry McGovern, as Mark Keane went up-front alongside Michael Mooney. Sheriff defended deeply in the second half, as Belvo launched attack after attack in search of a goal, but in vain. Belvo did create some chances, as Shane Fitzgerald had a great shot on goal, only to be denied by an alert keeper. Mark Keane too, was unlucky, when he skipped past two defenders into the penalty area, only to see his shot on goal go narrowly wide, with the keeper beaten. Despite increased pressure from Belvo in the closing ten minutes, Sheriff held out until the final whistle, to claim the 3 points. This was a below par performance from a Belvedere team, who now must lift themselves for their next fixture on Tuesday against Lourdes Celtic.

A goal in each half, with out reply, was enough to keep Belvedere on track in the chase for the league title. Keith Treacy opened the scoring midway through the first half, when his free kick from outside the box beat the keeper. Tolka had their fair share of the play, but, Belvo managed to keep them at bay and at half time it remained 1- 0. In the second half, Tolka increased the pressure, as the hosts made mistakes in defence. But, Belvo managed to deny the visitors an equaliser, before going 2 - 0 ahead themselves, when Joe Doherty scored a beauty of a goal, following a lovely cross by Timmy Purcell. This was a important win, as the 3 points gained, keeps Belvedere's interest in the league title very much alive, with some interesting fixtures still to be played.

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With only 4 minutes left to play, before a penalty shootout would decide the outcome, a lapse in concentration by the Belvedere defence cost them dearly, as they allowed Home Farm in to score. On a hot sunny day, Belvo had the better of the exchanges in the first half, when they created 3 excellent goal scoring chances; 2 from Michael Mooney and one from Scott Weir, but the finishing was below par, while the keeper pulled off a fine save to deny Mooney's second effort. Both teams produced some lovely football and while both tackled strongly, it was by no means a "dirty game". However, the turning point in the match came after 25 minutes, when Belvedere were reduced to 10 men, after Sean Fay was dismissed for a harsh second yellow card. Belvo re-adjusted to compensate for the loss, and it remained scoreless at half time. Keith Treacy replaced Gerry McGovern up front for the second half. Despite the numerical difference on the field, Belvo more than matched Home Farm, with Mark Healy and Weir outstanding in midfield. Belvo remained solid at the back, as Mark Keane marshalled his defence with an impressive performance at centre back. Home Farm knocked the ball around cleverly, making full use of the extra man in the hot conditions, but their attack was restricted to a few long range efforts on goal, which keeper Stephen Roche dealt with comfortably. At the end of normal time it was still scoreless as the game went into extra time. Timmy Purcell replaced Shane Fitzgerald on the right flank. The ten men continued to counter the efforts of Home Farm, but just as it looked like finishing in a scoreless draw, Belvo conceded a soft goal. With nothing to loose, Belvo threw caution to the wind and went in search of an equaliser, leaving only one player at the back. Home Farm countered with a shot that deflected into the net for their second goal, with only seconds remaining. Although disappointed at the manner of their defeat, and the harsh red card, Belvedere can take heart from their performance on the day, as they look forward with confidence to meeting Home Farm, once again, in the SFAI Barry Cup Final on the 30th of May.

Having already lost, twice this season, to Saint Joseph's Boys in the League and in the SFAI Cup, Belvedere entered this Cup Final match very much as underdogs. Joeys went a goal up after 5 minutes when their tall dominant midfield player broke through on the left before setting up the striker score. After their nervous start, Belvo began to take control of the midfield, with Gary Burke and Stephen Traynor in great form. James Perry was unlucky not to score, mid-way through the first half, when his shot on goal went wide of the post, and the score remained 1 - 0 at half time. Five minutes after the restart, Belvedere equalised, following a short corner kick to Donal Lenihan, who scored at the near post. Ten minutes later, Gareth Callaghan won a great tackle before delivering a pin point pass to Stephen Doyle, and he gave the Joey's keeper no chance with his shot on goal, to make it 2 - 1. Belvo continued to play some lovely passing football and were well in control of the match, but Joeys equalised with only minutes remaining following a long kick out of defence which allowed the striker in to score and send the game into extra time. Brian Carroll replaced the injured Gary Burke. Belvo regained their lead when Stephen Doyle latched onto a through ball, before cutting in to score a beauty of a goal. Indeed, Belvo should have gone further ahead, a few minutes later, but Lenihan's shot on goal was saved by the keeper. Just as it seemed that Belvedere were heading for a win, a long ball out of the Joey's defence caught them out and Joeys equalised to force a penalty shoot out. In a tense penalty shoot out, Belvedere scored all of their 5 penalties, while keeper Danny Henry proved to be the hero of the day as he saved the 3rd penalty kick and then scored another himself. Belvo's penalties were taken in turn by Ryan Byrne, Donal Lenihan, Stephen Traynor, Danny Henry, and Stephen Doyle, who also received the man of the match trophy. All in all, this was a deserved cup victory for Belvedere, and one which manager Wesley Robb and his assistants will be delighted with.

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The journey across the city to Sallynoggin, on Thursday evening, proved to be well worthwhile for Belvedere, as they scored 3 goals against Saint Joseph' Boys, without reply. Goalkeeper Stephen Henderson pulled off a brilliant save, early in the game, to deny Joeys taking the lead. The opening goal was scored by Keith Treacy on 25 minutes, when he latched onto a lovely headed pass from Jonathon Long, before firing home, with a right footed shot, that gave the keeper no chance. Belvo piled on the pressure and they went 2 - 0 ahead, 5 minutes later, when Treacy scored another beauty of a goal, as he out-witted the host's defence, before shooting to the corner of the net. After the half time break, Belvo continued where they left off, knocking the ball around in a great display of passing football. Daniel Ennis and Trevor Boyle were both outstanding in defence, while Henderson in goal was flawless in his handling of the ball. Belvo's 3rd goal was scored by Steven Nolan, mid way through the second half, when he finished off a lovely move, to put the result beyond doubt. Manager Thomas Kenny and his assistants were delighted with the team's performance on the night, while 3 points gained, keeps their interest in the league, very much alive.

With seven players missing from the squad, it was always going to be a difficult game for Belvedere, with positional changes and some of the Under 13's team coming in. It has to be said that the Under13's players acquitted themselves well in the step up in age. In a strange first half on Belvo's part, they found themselves 0 - 3 down. Despite having most of the play, it seemed that every time Bohs attacked, they scored! But, Belvedere kept playing and were duly rewarded with a sweetly taken goal by Keith Fagan from 25 yards. Just as Belvo looked like they were going to score again, Bohs grabbed their fourth with a tap in goal. Belvo kept on playing in the "never say die" attitude, which pleased the management, and scored a second goal through the persistence of their diminutive winger, Colin Pugh.

Five second half goals, secured a well deserved win for Belvedere, at Fairview Park, on Tuesday evening. The first half was even enough, with both defences on top and despite chances created at both ends, it remained scoreless at half time. However, Belvo turned in a great second half display of passing football, which produced goals from John O'Sullivan, Gavin Ivory, Grahan Burke, Gary O'Donoughue and Adam Merrie, while Terenure managed to score one goal in reply. Manager Frank McGrath was delighted with his team's performance on the day, as this win keeps Belvo on target to win the league title, needing 3 points from their 2 remaining matches. Belvedere travel to play Terenure away on Friday evening, followed by their final game of the season, against Valeview Shankill at home, on Sunday.

Belvedere scored a great victory over Saint Joseph's Boys at DNG Park, Sallynoggin on Sunday. The 2 - 0 score line somewhat flattered the home team, as the Belvo could have scored heavily. While the first half was evenly contested at the start, Belvo had the better of the chances, without making the breakthrough. However, on 12 minutes, following a corner kick which the Belvo defence failed to clear properly, Joeys had a powerful volley on goal, only for goalkeeper Shane Roche to produce, what must be, the save of the season, as he acrobatically pushed the ball against the woodwork, to deny the hosts. As half time neared, Belvo pressed forward, with good chances falling to Michael Mooney, Gerry McGovern and Scott Weir, but a combination of good goalkeeping and bad luck left them scoreless at the half time break. The second half was a huge improvement as Belvo dominated from the start. Again unlucky in their finishing, it seemed the opening goal would never come. However, after 8 minutes, a free kick into the Joey's penalty area fell on the edge of the six yard box. It rolled nicely for McGovern who finished with a great shot to the corner of the net. Belvo continued to press forward looking for a second goal and it came in the 18th minute, following the move of the match. A great pass from defence found McGovern upfront; he passed to Mooney, who delivered a great diagonal pass to Shane Fitzgerald on the right. Fitzie raced past 2 defenders before sending over an inch perfect cross for Mooney to head decisively home, to make it 2 - 0. The Belvo defence stood firm dealing capably with the Joey's breakaways. Centre backs James Lee and Mark Keane were masterful, while a feature of the game was the passing out of defence by both full backs, Niall O'Reilly and Conor Powell. Belvo captain Mark Healy and Scott Weir were immense in the mid-field, never shirking the challenge and creating many openings. Both wide players, Conor Lenihan and Fitzie had the measure of the Joey's defenders and they contributed greatly to this victory with their mazy runs and superb crosses into the box. The front duo of Mooney and McGovern played "blinders" and deserved their goals, and much more. Shane Roche in goal, once again proved his worth and while he had little to do in the second half, his memorable early save set the foundation for a great victory.

Karl Byrne marked his return to the team with a goal in the 43rd. minute to get Belvedere back into the game having gone in at half time two - nil down. After a poor first half, it was character and determination that showed through, and when David Connolly levelled matters on 55 minutes, it looked like Belvo might even win this one. But slack marking in defence allowed the Drogs to snatch a winner. Excellent wing play from Paul Cahillane created numerous chances for his forwards, but the home keeper, standing at 6'3', was having a good day. The Belvo keeper, Matthew Pidgeon made a couple of outstanding point-blank saves to deny the Drogheda forwards. Overall, a good second half display which should have ended with a draw.

Team: Pidgeon, Cumberton, Cox, Guilfoyle, Lawless, Caffrey, Lonergan, Sheridan, Cahillane, Connolly, Byrne. Subs not used - Fagan, Pugh.

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An injury hit Belvedere produced a fine display of football at Fairview Park on Thursday evening and lead 4 - 0 at half time, thanks to a hat-trick from Michael Mooney and a goal from Keith Tracey. Brian McCann replaced the injured Niall O'Reilly in defence for the second half, while 10 minutes later Rory Brown came on in midfield for captain Mark Healy, who retired with a blistered foot. Belvedere continued to control the match, but conceded a soft goal on 15 minutes to Ardmore, following some slack marking. However, Belvedere soon replied with a goal each from Mooney and Tracey to seal the result and record a comprehensive win.

In an exciting and entertaining encounter at the Lawn in Ballyfermot, both teams produced some top class football, with a number chances created at both ends in the first half. Cherry Orchard's early efforts on goal were denied by some excellent goalkeeping from Stephen Henderson, who was on top form. Equally, Belvedere were unable to capitalise on their chances at the other end, and it remained scoreless at half-time. Belvo's James O'Sullivan and Joe Doherty were impressive as they more than matched the talented Orchard mid-field. However, the home team went a goal up 10 minutes after the restart, when Belvo's defence failed to deal with a long kick out. This hesitancy at the back allowed the Orchard striker in and he fired home to make it 1 - 0. The Orchard threw everything they had at Belvo, in search of a second goal. Five minutes later, a neat passing movement saw the Orchard striker clean through on goal, but keeper Henderson pulled off a tremendous one on one save, to keep Belvo in the game. Belvedere, however, fought their way back into the game with some good passing football, and this lead to a free kick being awarded for a foul, just outside the penalty area. Keith Tracey's powerful in-swinging free kick completely deceived the Orchard keeper and the ball sailed into the net for the equaliser. Belvedere continued to play good football and defended strongly, with Trevor Boyle and Daniel Ennis both solid at centre back. However, despite further chances at both ends, the score remained at 1 - 1 at the final whistle.

A sterling second half display saw Belvedere advance to the Final of the 7UP / SFAI National Under 16 Barry Cup on a 3 - 0 scoreline, over Ardmore Rovers, at a sunny Ballywaltrim, Co. Wicklow. The tight hard pitch was not conducive to playing passing movements. However, while the first half was evenly contested, Belvo can thank goalkeeper, Shane Roche, for two marvellous stops early in the game. On 35 minutes, Michael Mooney shot to the net with a great finish, from a Shane Fitzgerald cross, to give Belvo the lead at the break. Indeed, the advantage could have been doubled if Scott Weir had taken a glorious chance, created by another Fitzie cross, from the right. Belvedere set about the second half in determined fashion, creating a number of chances, but lacking the finishing touch. The second goal came after 8 minutes when right full, Niall O'Reilly brilliantly overlapped, before squaring the ball to the in-rushing Weir, who blasted home from close range, to make amends for his earlier miss. Substitute striker, Gerry McGovern replaced the injured Sean Fay, who was forced to retire with an ankle injury, while Mark Keane dropped back to play at centre back. Ardmore were reduced to ten men, a few minutes later, when their striker was dismissed, following a second yellow card. Belvo continued to pressurise the Ardmore defence and scored a third goal after 22 minutes, when Keane put Fitzie through on goal and he found the corner of the net from 18 yards. Substitute Brian McCann came on for captain Mark Healy while Ian Rennicks and Rory Brown replaced Weir and Mooney, with 12 minutes left. Brown went close with a shot on goal, only to be denied by the Ardmore keeper's outstretched leg. This was a very good performance, away from home for Belvedere, and was built on a solid defensive display, a gritty determined mid-field and hard working front runners. Belvo will meet Home Farm in the Barry Cup Final, at the AUL Complex, Clonshaugh on May 30th.

Disappointment was the name of the game when Belvedere lost this game. A poor first half conceding a soft goal and not playing up to scratch, was the reality. But a spirited second half display saw the boys in blue almost get, what would have been a deserved draw. Onwards and upwards from here!

Team:Pidgeon, Guilfoyle, Cox(Fagan), Breen, Lawless, Sheridan(Cumberton), McMahon, Lonergan(Pugh), Cahillane, Caffrey(Bonny), Connolly.

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The journey across the city to Tallaght proved to be a worthwhile one for Belvedere, on Sunday, as they scored 3 goals without reply from Shamrock Rovers. Belvo went ahead after 10 minutes, thanks to opportunist goal from Gavin Ivory who punished Rovers for some slack defending. Graham Burke scored the second goal, 5 minutes later, when he met with a lovely cross from Adam Merrie, leaving the Rovers keeper with no chance, as he fired home. Ten minutes into the second half, Gary Donoghue scored a with a great volley from outside the box to make it 3 - 0. This was a very good performance from Belvedere, who remain on coarse to claim the league title, if they can take full points from their remaining 4 games.

League challengers Rangers CYM came to Fairview Park on Sunday confident of taking the 3 points in their bid for the title. However, they hadn't reckoned on meeting a resolute Belvedere team who turned in a great performance and ran out 3 - 0 winners. Michael Galligan opened the scoring on 12 minutes when he met with a lovely cross from Kieran Maloney, to blast the ball into the net. Indeed, Galligan should have doubled his tally a few minutes later, but his effort on goal was denied by the woodwork. Brian Kenny scored his first and Belvo's second goal, 10 minutes into the second half, when he volleyed into the net after the Rangers defence had failed to clear from a corner. Shortly after, Kenny scored his second goal in similar circumstances to the first to put make it 3 - 0 for Belvedere. Despite their mid-table league position, Belvo more than matched the league challengers Rangers, with a great team performance. A special mention must go to Stephen Sunderland who had an excellent game at centre back, ensuring Belvo kept a clean sheet.

A goal after 40 seconds from David Connolly started this interesting game. Leading 2-0 with twenty minutes gone with a headed goal from Paul Cahillane, and playing well, it looked likely to be a comfortable win for the home side! Soon after that, Drogheda began to get a grip on things and they pulled a goal back with 5 minutes left in the half. Second half saw the "Drogs" equalise and then make it 2-3 with time running out, only for Felim McMahon to equalise with a tap in, after Garry Breen's free kick was misjudged by the keeper.

Team:Pidgeon, Cumberton, Cox, Guilfoyle, Breen, Sheridan, McMahon, Lonergan, Fagan, Connolly, Cahillane.

Lady luck was missing on Saturday when Belvedere visited Sundrive Park to take on Lourdes Celtic. The play in the first half was fairly even, as both teams cancelled out each others efforts and it remained scoreless at half time. Five minutes after the restart Lourdes went a goal ahead due to little hesitancy by Belvo at the back. Belvedere equalised 10 minutes later through Stephen Doyle when he finished off a great passing movement with a lovely goal. Just as it appeared that the game would finish in a draw, Lourdes scored a good second goal with only minutes left to play. Belvedere manager Wesley Robb although naturally disappointed with the result, was very happy with his team's performance on the day.

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This was a well merited victory for Belvedere, as they dominated the match throughout, and with a bit of luck, could have won by a wider margin. Keith Tracey opened the scoring for Belvo on 20 minutes, when he fired home, following a great solo effort. Belvo tried to extend their lead, but a combination of bad luck and wayward shooting denied them. Home Farm scored a fortunate equaliser 5 minutes before the break, due to a mix up in the Belvedere defence. The second half followed the same pattern as the first, with the Farm keeper busy, making save after save to deny Belvo. However, after 15 minutes, Jonathon Long gave the keeper no chance, when he latched on to a lovely through ball before skilfully shooting low and hard into the net to make it 2 - 1. Tracey and Timmy Purcell were rampant on the flanks causing the Farm defence all sorts of problems, while James O'Sullivan and Joe Doherty were equally impressive in midfield. With the Belvo defensive unit standing firm, Home Farm were unable to trouble keeper Stephen Henderson in any serious way. All in all, this was a very good performance from Belvedere and one which manager Thomas Kenny and his assistants will be delighted with.

After their disappointing display last weekend, Belvedere bounced back with a great team performance, as they defeated Saint Joseph's Boys 5 - 0 at Fairview Park. Despite the horrible weather conditions on the night, Belvo dominated the game and went one up after only 2 minutes, thanks to a David Connolly goal. Belvo played some delightful passing football and were duly rewarded with a second goal, on 10 minutes, thanks to Felim McMahon's great finish. Just before the break, Paul Cahillane scored the third goal when he outpaced the Joey's defence, before slotting the ball into the net. Ten minutes into the second half, Connolly scored his second and Belvo's fourth goal when he fired home, following a lovely passing movement. Indeed, Connolly was unlucky not to have completed his hat-trick, when a few minutes later, he combined with Cahillane to outwit the visitor's defence, only to see his effort on goal cleared off the line. With 5 minutes remaining, Cillian Sheridan made it 5 - 0 with a well taken goal, to seal the result for Belvo. A special mention must go to stand-in goalkeeper Peter Lyons who kept a clean sheet, in difficult weather conditions. Overall, this was an excellent team performance, and the win keeps Belvedere's interest in the league very much alive.

An injury hit Belvedere have goalkeeper Shane Roche to thank as he brilliantly saved a penalty kick, 5 minutes from time to secure the 3 points. Driving rain and gusting winds made good football difficult at Ellenfield Park on Tuesday evening, but this was no excuse as Belvo squandered chance after chance to put the result beyond doubt. Playing against the wind in the first half, Belvo were soon winning the midfield battle but failed to go in front despite creating some great chances on goal, and the game remained scoreless at the break. Brian McCann replaced the injured Gerry McGovern for the second half and it was McCann's pass that put Keith Tracey through to score the winning goal after only 2 minutes of play. With the wind in their favour, Belvo launched wave after wave of attacks on the Saint Kevin's goal, but they failed to score on at least five occasions following some lovely passing movements. As happens in football when a team doesn't take it's chances, Saint Kevins came back into the game and they had Belvo under pressure in the last 10 minutes of the game. Indeed, they almost "stole" a draw when they were awarded a penalty kick for a foul in the box, with 5 minutes left to play. Belvedere "got out of jail " thanks to Roche but they will reflect back on a game, which they could have won comfortably, despite the weather conditions, had they taken their chances.

Belvedere secured a well earned place in the final of the Paul McGrath Cup with a 4 - 1 victory over arch-rivals Cherry Orchard, at Glasnevin on Sunday. The game was evenly balanced in the early stages with both defences on top. However, Cherry Orchard took the lead on 25 minutes when they sprang the off-side trap. Belvo keeper Shane Roche made a great stop from the Orchard striker's shot on goal, but the rebound was forced home, with more than a hint of offside. On 25 minutes, substitute Gerry McGovern came on to replace the injured Ian Rennicks. Soon after, controversy followed when a Conor Lenihan free kick was pushed onto the post by the Orchard keeper. Michael Mooney followed in, and squared the ball to McGovern, who blasted home with his first touch of the ball. However, to the amazement of the crowd on the line and both teams, the goal was disallowed, as the assistant referee flagged for off-side. Belvo continued to pile on the pressure and equalised on 30 minutes through Shane Fitzgerald, who scored a great goal, following a speedy break from midfield. Two minutes later, Mooney nodded on for Scott Weir to break through and shoot to the net, for a half time lead of 2 - 1. Belvedere restarted as they had finished the first half, as McGovern nodded down for Mooney to drive past the keeper for a great finish, after only 2 minutes. With Belvedere now in control of the match, chances fell in turn to McGovern, Mooney and Fitzie, but a combination of good goalkeeping and bad luck kept the score at 3 - 1. With Weir and Mark Healy controlling the midfield, and the back four of Niall O'Reilly, Sean Fay, James Lee and Conor Powell standing firm, it was only a matter of time before the 4th goal came. With only minutes remaining, Lenihan went on a typical mazy run down the left flank before cutting in to finish from a narrow angle, to make 4 - 1, and seal a comprehensive victory for Belvedere. Manager John Moore and his assistants Jimmy, Kieran and Tony can be well pleased with the efforts of their charges, in qualifying for the Cup Final on May15th next.

Favourites for the league title, Lourdes Celtic, came to Fairview Park on Saturday looking for three points and got them - with a little help from the home side. Gifted with two of the goals and a lack of good defending for another, was greeted with a "thank you very much" from a happy Lourdes camp. Belvedere simply under performed in a game they needed to win to keep an outside chance of league success. But it wasn't to be, as the visitors march on, to within reach of taking the league title. The only highlight from the home side was a well taken goal from Paul Cahillane.

Team: Pidgeon, Guilfoyle, Cox, Breen, Lawless, Sheridan, Lonergan, Pugh(Fagan), Cahillane, Connolly, Bonny(Caffrey). Sub not used - Cumberton.

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Belvedere Under 16's duly booked their place in the Semi-Finals of the Barry Cup with a magnificent hard earned victory at the fantastic Killarney Athletic complex. This proved to be a fitting venue for a close, competitive encounter that saw the Belvo triumph on a 3 - 1 scoreline. Rain and driving wind could not spoil this match as both teams fought with great skill and determination for the spoils. Belvo played with the wind in the first half, dominating play with sweeping moves, while not creating many clear-cut chances. It seemed the opener would come from a set-piece as corners and free-kicks were expertly delivered by both Shane Fitzgerald and Conor Lenihan. Centre back, Sean Fay came closest to scoring, but he chose to volley, when a header might have produced a goal. Killarney Athletic, too, had had their moments. A sweetly struck free kick from outside the box was smartly turned over by an alert Belvo keeper, Shane Roche. Just before the break, a superb pass from Belvo captain, Mark Healy put "Fitzie" through on goal and he expertly shot in to the corner of the net for the opening goal. Shortly afterwards keeper Roche went down on a through ball and got ball and boot together. The ball spun free, but was driven wide across goal by the host's striker. The second half started brightly with Belvo mastering the conditions very well, as they kept Killarney on the back foot. A delightful free-kick from Fitzie, after five minutes, found Michael Mooney's head at the far post. Mooney nodded the ball back across goal to Scott Weir who blasted home for Belvedere's second goal. However, within a few minutes, Killarney pulled a goal back as they threw caution to the wind. Following an exceptionally long throw-in in to the box, which Belvo failed to properly head clear, an alert striker beat Roche as he toe poked the ball into the net. Game on ! The home team launched wave after wave of attacks in search of an equaliser. With the wind behind them and great vocal support, they had Belvo retreating. The Boys in blue, however, showed their true character as they dug deep and regained their dominance of the game, with some excellent defending by James Lee. Weir and Healy were soon again controlling the middle of the park. Fitze went close on at least three occassions as he raced clear of the defenders only to be denied by the Killarney keeper. Conor Lenihan on the left flank produced some amazing skilful runs as the game opened up but it took until the final minute of added time before he rounded the keeper to slot home Belvo's third goal and seal a great victory .

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A hardworking Belvedere team held out for a share of the points in their first league game since December. Not many chances came our way in a tough physical game. Full credit must go to a Belvedere side who have come on in strength and ability since the start of the season.

Team: Pidgeon; Guilfoyle(Buckley); Fagan; Breen; Lawless; Sheridan; McMahon; Lonergan; Cahillane; Connolly; Caffrey(Bonny). Subs not used: Pugh; Cumberton.

Saturday 27th March

An excellent performance from Belvedere at Fairview Park on Saturday saw them book their place in the Final of the Tony Ryan Cup at the AUL Complex on May 15th next. Two goals from Gary Burke and one each from Gareth O'Callaghan and Stephen Doyle gave Belvo a 4 - 0 lead at half time. Leixlip managed to pull back 2 goals early in the second half, before O'Callaghan scored his second and Belvo's fifth from the penalty spot. Belvedere's sixth goal was scored by Donal Lenihan late in the game when he finished off a great passing movement.

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Under 15 Major - Paddy Fenlon Cup Semi-Finals

Belvedere's pre- match preparations for this cup match were upset due to a mix up over a change of venue form Albert College Park to the College of Surgeons. Half the Belvo team only arrived minutes before kick off and were unable to warm up properly. The first half however, was fairly even as both teams tried hard to get on top, without success. Belvo defended well, with Stephen Sunderland and Terry McAuley in fine form at centre back. Shane Keogh, in nets, was also in good form as he denied Bohs with some great goalkeeping. At times the game became quite physical, but to their credit, the Belvo players didn't retaliate. Belvo created some good scoring chances, but the finishing was well below par, and at the half time whistle it remained scoreless. After the restart, the solid defending of the first half was missing, when within ten minutes, Belvo conceded two soft goals, mainly to due some hesitancy at the back. Belvo tried hard to get back on terms but they were unable to really trouble the Bohs team who had a strong wind in their favour. Belvedere will be disappointed with their second half performance which undoubtedly cost them a Cup Final place.

Gale force winds and driving rain made things very difficult for both teams at Fairview Park on Saturday. Playing against the wind in the first half, Belvo went 0-1 down with only 4 minutes on the clock, and it looked like an uphill battle was on the cards. Then, when the Saints were awarded a penalty for deliberate handball on the stroke of half time, some felt the worst. But, keeper Matthew Pidgeon saved the day for Belvo when he guessed the right way for the penalty. And what a let off that was ! Two goals would have been really hard to claw back. The second half saw Belvedere dominate, and with 10 minutes left on the clock, David Connolly chased a ball which looked like going wide, he controlled it and beat a defender, and then sent a measured cross to the head of Bryan Lonergan, who guided the ball past the visiting keeper. Game on! More pressure from the home side in the remaining few minutes saw the Saints' keeper pull off some fine saves. Extra time saw Connolly rewarded for his hard work with a neat goal. With Felim McMahon in the box trying to create an opening for himself, he got a shout from Connolly, McMahon gave him the ball and he shot it into the net by the narrowest of angles. In the second half, Paul Cahillane picked the ball up near the half way line, and he then went on a mazy run past four defenders before dispatching the ball across the keeper's body into the far side of the net, for a superb individual goal.

Team: Pidgeon, Guilfoyle(Buckley), Cox(Fagan), Breen, Lawless, Lonergan(Cumberton), Sheridan, McMahon(Pugh), Cahillane, Connolly, Bonny(Caffrey).

This was an outstanding performance from Belvedere, who also battled with the elements on the day, to come from behind to win 2 -1 in extra time. With a gale force wind and driving rain behind them, Saint Francis dominated the opening period of the game and scored after only 6 minutes of play. Belvedere, however, dug deep and defended really well from then on, and managed to keep the score at 1 - 0 at half time. After the break it was the turn of the visitors to defend, as Belvo pounded their goal time after time. Saint Francis' defence remained solid however, with their keeper denying Belvo with number of great saves. Striker, Bernard Ogene led the attack for Belvo and he was unlucky not to score, when Daniel Langan's measured pass put him through on goal, but his shot went narrowly wide. Dylan Pennie had a great game and he caused the visitors no end of problems with his tireless running all day. With 5 minutes left to play, and just as it seemed that the visitors were going to hold out for a win, Belvo won a free kick for a foul, on the edge of the penalty area. Up stepped Langan, who gave the keeper no chance with his "Beckam like" kick to send the ball into the top corner of the net for the equaliser. Now in total control, Belvo went in search of a winner, and this came 5 minutes into the first period of extra time, when, following a lovely passing movement, Robert Doran scored a beauty of a goal. Belvo pressed on further, looking for a third goal, but to no avail as the Saint Francis team held on. There were scenes of great celebration among the Belvedere players at the final whistle, despite the terrible weather conditions, at having booked their place in the semi-finals of the Troy Cup.

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Weather conditions were far from ideal at Glasnevin on Sunday as Belvedere Under16's faced Killarney Athletic in the quarter finals of the 7UP / SFAI National Under 16's Barry Cup. The gusting crosswinds together with a very heavy pitch made things very difficult for both teams on the day. The early exchanges were fairly even as both teams tried to find a way through to goal, but without success. Belvo played some lovely passing football at times but were unable to break down a strong Killarney defence. A number of goal scoring chances were created by Belvedere, but the finishing touch was missing at the vital time. Equally, Killarney had two very good efforts on goal in the first half, only to be denied by a brilliant save from keeper Shane Roche for the first one, while right full Niall O'Reilly's head deflected the shot over the bar for the other. After the break, Belvedere gained greater control of the game and stretched the Killarney defence with some excellent passing movements. Conor Lenihan, on the left flank, sent in some lovely crosses as Mark Keane came close on two occasions, while Michael Mooney cursed his luck when he fired wide of goal with the visitor's defence beaten. Belvo continued to force the play from midfield with Mark Healy and Scott Weir in command. With no score at full time, the game went into extra time, as Keith Tracey replaced the injured Keane up front. Belvo continued to threaten the visitor's goal, with Tracey going close twice, but at the final whistle the score remained 0 - 0 and a replay now due in Killarney.

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The Lawn in Ballyfermot is never an easy place to go and get a result, but on Sunday Belvedere did just that when they won 1 - 0 against Cherry Orchard. Belvo played some good passing football early on, moving the ball around nicely, causing problems for the Orchard defence. However, Belvo had a lucky escape on 10 minutes as keeper Shane Roche let a through ball slip past him, but he recovered really well with a great tackle to deny the striker. Mark Keane scored the only goal of the game on 26 minutes when he fired home at the far post following a period of strong pressure from Belvedere. Shortly afterwards Shane Fitzgerald was unlucky not to have scored a second goal for Belvedere as he ran on to a lovely headed flick from Michael Mooney, only for the Cherry Orchard keeper to make a fine save. In the second half Belvo worked hard in all areas of the pitch and kept control of the play with Scott Weir and Mark Healy commanding in midfield. With 15 minutes left to play, Fitzgerald made a great run down the right flank leaving two defenders in his wake, before blasting the ball over the bar, when he might have done better. The Belvedere defence remained strong and organised, dealing well with all of the Orchard attacks. At the final whistle it was Belvedere who advanced to the quarter finals of the Barry Cup.

Despite dominating the play for most of the first half, Belvedere were unable to capitalise on the many chances they created in front of goal and so the score remained 0 - 0 at half time. However, Belvo did break the deadlock when Keith Tracey scored a great goal after 15 minutes played and this was followed five minutes later when Jonathon Long blasted home to put the result beyond doubt.

A hat-trick from Mark McMahon, 2 from Lloyd Cooney ( his 50th /51st goals this season so far ) and one each from Eric Rafferty and Eddie Staunton secured a place in the next round of the Peter Dunne Cup for Belvedere at Fairview Park. Belvo came from behind twice to equalise before going 3 - 2 ahead before half time. In the second half, Belvo turned in a great display of football as they hit 4 more goals, without reply, to record a great win.

The 14's reached the 1/4 final stage of this competition by defeating last years winners in style at Mobhi Road. After four minutes, Gary Breen hit a free kick from the left hand side of the pitch onto the head of Cillian Sheridan who knocked it goalwards. The Farm centre half went up to head it clear but instead diverted it over the on-rushing goalkeeper into his own net. Belvedere looked the better side throughout and snuffed out any real attack against them with a strong defensive display, led by the excellent Breen. In fact, every player gave it their best effort to make this a memorable win. As the game wore on, and with Home Farm getting nowhere, they changed to a 3-4-3 system to try and get the equaliser. This opened things up a bit for Belvedere and David Connolly was at his sharpest in front of goal scoring twice in the last ten minutes, to send everyone who was there supporting the sky - blues, home in great form for the weekend!

Team : Pidgeon; McMahon; Cox; Breen; Lawless; Byrne(Fagan); Lonergan; Sheridan; Cahillane; Bonny(Caffrey); Connolly. Subs not used - Pugh; Cumberton; Buckley. (Guilfoyle - Inj.)

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Saturday 29th February

The 14's reached the semi - final of the Thunder Cup after defeating Bohemians on Saturday by four goals to one. After a first half dominated by Belvedere it was hard to believe they only led by a single goal. Many real chances were spurned until the 27th.minuite when Keith Cox hit a thunderbolt from 25 yards . Low and hard it went into the back of the net. Bohs equalised with their only shot on target in the 40th. minuite. The Belvedere reaction was swift. Felim McMahon and Brian Bonny replaced Colin Pugh and Stephen Caffrey, and with Paul Cahillane providing excellent crosses from the left wing all through the game, it wasn't long before McMahon was on the end of one to steer the ball past the Bohs keeper. On 50 minutes it was 3 -1 for the visitors with McMahon netting his second of the afternoon. Inspired substitutions by manager Damien Byrne ? With 10 minutes left on the clock Cahillane got his just rewards for a good afternoons work with the final goal of the game. Altogether, it was a much improved performance from recent games.

Team : Pidgeon ; Guilfoyle(Comerfort) ; Cox ; Lawless ; Breen ; Pugh(Buckley) ; Lonergan ; Sheridan(McMahon) ; Cahillane ; Connolly ; Caffrey(Bonny). Subs not used : Fagan ; Byrne.

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Sunday 22nd February

A goal from Michael Mooney on 25 minutes was enough to send Belvedere into the last 16 of the Barry Cup, at Glin Road on Sunday afternoon. Cold and windy weather conditions combined to make it difficult for both teams on the day. Belvo dominated the play from the start and created a number of scoring chances, but without success. Saint Columbans defended deeply, denying Belvo from early on. The winning goal came from a delightful passing movement, down the right, involving four Belvedere players. Niall O'Reilly started the movement from the right full position when he found Mark Keane, up front, with a great pass. Keane wriggled away from his marker before putting Shane Fitzgerald clear on the right. Fitzgerald raced clear of the full back before delivering a low ball into the penalty area, for Mooney to blast home. In the second half, Belvedere continued to pressurise the home team and had 2 goals disallowed for offside. At times the game became physical, resulting in a number of yellow cards. With 20 minutes left to play, Saint Columbans were reduced to 10 men following a red card. Although delighted with the result, Belvedere will be disappointed, that despite their dominance on the day, they failed to win more convincingly.

Belvedere started brightly and were one - up after 8 minutes. A corner from the right, taken by Paul Cahillane to the near post, where Bryan Lonergan finished superbly with his head. David Connolly had the ball in the net 5 minutes later, but the referee disallowed it. (ask him!). After that, the game went a bit flat and it was evident that Belvedere hadn't played a game for a while. Waterford equalised, with 5 minutes left in the first half, with a well struck header.In the second half Stephen Caffrey had the ball in the net after a scramble in the box, but again the ref disallowed it (ask him again!). With 5 minutes left, Caffrey put Connolly through on goal. As he rounded the keeper, he was almost cut in half by the keeper's high challenge! The keeper fell awkwardly and had to receive attention for a neck injury, which took about 10 minutes. It was a long wait for Paul Cahillane to take the penalty, but he kept his concentration and slotted the ball into the net to seal victory for Belvedere.

It is to be noted that the people of Waterford Bohemians were very hospitable towards us from the moment we arrived until the time we left. ............. Many thanks to all concerned.

Team: Pidgeon; Guilfoyle; Fagan (Cox); Lawless; Breen; McMahon; Lonergan; Sheridan; Bonny (Caffrey); Connolly; Cahillane. Subs not used : Pugh; Cumberton.

A goal in each half, without reply, sent Belvedere into the quarter finals of the Troy Cup at Fairview Park on Saturday. This was an impressive performance from a Belvo team who very worked hard on the day. T.J Haughey and Kevin Dawson, in particular, were in commanding form, controlling play from the centre of midfield. The opening goal was scored by David Langan who fired home after 25 minutes, following a period of sustained pressure by Belvo. After the half time break Joeys tried hard to get back on level terms, but Belvo remained rock solid in defence, with Darren Kelly in surperb form at centre back. Even when the visitors did get their strikes on goal, keeper Peter Lyons was there to deny them. With 5 minutes of play remaining, striker Bernard Ogene put the result beyond doubt for Belvedere when he scored a great goal to finish off a lovely passing movement.

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Sunday 15th February

Michael Mooney proved to be the hero on the day for Belvedere when he scored 2 goals at Carolan Park in Tallaght on Sunday. Mooney scored the first goal with a great header after 10 minutes when he met with a cross from the left. Belvo went two ahead 8 minutes later when the Rovers' defender put the ball into his own net, following pressure from Mark Keane. Shortly afterwards, Belvedere should have gone 3 - 0 ahead when Mooney ran clear of the home defence, but his shot on goal was saved by the keeper. Just before the half time break, Belvo conceded a soft goal, after some indecision in defence. Three minutes into the second half, Rovers equalised when their striker latched on to long clearance, which the Belvo defence had failed to clear. Despite loosing a two goal advantage, Belvedere knuckled down and continued to play good football. They pressurised the Rovers' defence for the remainder of the match, forcing the keeper into action time after time. The pressure paid off in the end, when Mooney fired home from close range, with 5 minutes remaining, following some great work from Mark Keane.

In a tight match at Fairview Park, both teams battled hard early on to gain control, without success. Eventually the breakthrough for Belvedere came on 26 minutes when Kieran Maloney scored. The goal resulted from a lovely one - two passing movement between David Walsh and Maloney who outwitted the visitors' defence. The rest of the match remained fairly even with both teams cancelling out each others efforts. With 5 minutes left to play, Michael Galligan found the back of the net for Belvo with a great finish, but the goal was a disallowed for a hand ball.

Saturday 14th February

At Mobhi Road on Saturday, Belvedere produced a top drawer performance to win 3 - 1 against Home Farm. Jamie Reid opened the scoring on 10 minutes with a well taken goal following a lovely passing movement. Reid was on target again on 20 minutes when he slotted home to put Belvo 2 - 0 ahead. Five minutes later Lee Swords latched on to a through pass to make it 3 - 0. In the second half Home Farm managed to pull a goal back after 10 minutes of play. But Belvedere kept their shape and continued to pass the ball around and ran out worthy 3 - 1 winners.

Two goals from Stephen Doyle, one in each half, and one from Gary Burke in the second half gave Belvedere the 3 points at Pearse Park. Belvo had to come from behind twice to equalise, before scoring a great winning third goal 20 minutes from time. Indeed, Belvedere could have won by a higher margin but they failed to convert from the spot after they were awarded a penalty kick, with 10 minutes to play. Manager Wesley Robb was delighted with his team's performance on the day, in coming back twice, before going on to score the winner.

Lloyd Cooney's goal scoring run continued at Fairview Park on Saturday when he scored twice in the second half. The opening goal was scored by Mark McMahon after 20 minutes of play with a great strike on goal. Belvedere continued to threaten the visitors' goal for the rest of the first half, with some great attacking play, but they were unable to extend their lead. Ten minutes after the restart, Cooney opened his account when he fired home from close range to double Belvedere's lead. Leicester Celtic fought back and managed to pull a goal back within 5 minutes. However, Cooney grabbed his second and Belvo's third goal with a great finish, to put the result beyond doubt with 10 minutes left to play.

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Sunday 8th February

This was a tight game with both teams evenly matched. The Belvo defence remained strong throughout the match limiting the visitors' chances on goal. Belvedere played some lovely football at times but were unable to make it pay. However, 15 minutes into the second half, following a series of passes down the right involving Michael Galligan and Eoin O'Brian, the ball was played through to Kieran Maloney. He went past the defender and was upended in the box. The referee blew for a penalty kick and up stepped David Walsh to slot home for the second time in two matches. Belvedere players had worked hard on the day and they were delighted to see their efforts rewarded with a win.

Saturday 7th February

A goal in each half secured the 3 points for Belvedere in an entertaining game at Fairview Park on Saturday. Adam O'Brien opened the scoring on 10 minutes when he finished well after a good build up down the right. Belvedere created a number of scoring chances but lacked the finishing at the vital time. The second goal was scored by Neil Byrne, 15 minutes into the second half, when he fired home after he had latched on to lovely through ball. The Belvedere back four remained solid throughout the match, dealing comfortably with the WFTA attack. Despite further pressure from Belvo in the second half, WFTA held out to keep the score at 2 - 0 at the final whistle.

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Sunday 1st February

Belvedere had the better of the exchanges in the first half, but they failed to capitalise on some good goal scoring opportunities. After the break Belvo continued to pressurise the Knocklyon defence but again they lacked the finishing touch in front of goal. Alan Harmon on the right side of midfield had a great game and he floated in some lovely crosses into the danger area, but to no avail. With 15 minutes to go the visitors scored from a free kick on the edge of the penalty area. This was their only strike on goal as Belvo keeper Shane Keogh had very little to do in the whole game. David Walsh equalised for Belvo from the penalty spot after a Kieran Maloney flick was handled by a defender with only 5 minutes remaining. This was the third meeting of the teams this season with Belvo loosing 3 - 2 away in the league and winning 2 - 0 at home in the cup. Belvedere Manager Gerry Galligan will be disappointed not to have taken the 3 points from a game in which his team his team dominated the play.

A single goal for the visitors on 20 minutes was enough to win this Evans Cup 5th Round tie at Fairview Park. The game started brightly enough, despite the windy conditions, with both teams threatening in the early stages. Belvedere goalkeeper Stephen Henderson was called into action a number of times to deny the visitors. The winning goal came from a Cherry Orchard movement down the right followed by a low cross into the box. The Belvo defence was slow to react to the danger and the visitors' striker nipped in score from close range. In the second half, with the wind against them, Belvedere were unable trouble the Orchard defence to any great extent. The visitors piled on the pressure and only for Henderson in goal Belvo might have gone further behind. At the final whistle it was the Orchard who went forward to the last 16 of the competition, while Belvedere will be disappointed with their own performance on the day.

Weather conditions were far from ideal at Fairview Park on Saturday for this 5th round Troy Cup game. The rain and strong winds combined with a heavy pitch to make the going tough for both teams. Belvedere played with the wind in their favour in the first half and had the better of the exchanges, but they tended to overplay the ball at times. Belvo went close on a few occasions but lacked the finishing touch in front of goal . On 15 minutes, striker Bernard Ogene scored the goal that proved to be the winner when he fired home from close range. In the second half, against the wind, Belvo actually played better football, with Ogene continuing to cause problems for the visitors' defence. But despite dominating the play Belvedere were unable to capitalise on their chances. The Celtic defence held strong and limited Belvedere to a single goal in the end. Belvo Manager, Archie O'Connor was delighted with the win and was full of praise for his team for reaching the last 16 of the competition.

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A little rusty after the long Christmas break, Belvedere went a goal behind within the first 5 minutes. This seemed to act as a wake up call because within 10 minutes they drew level thanks to a Keith Murray goal. Belvo kept up the pressure with good work from forward Dylan Pennie but were unable to increase the score before the half time break. After the restart Belvo really started to play some lovely football and they were rewarded on 10 minutes when Bernard Ogene rounded the keeper to score a great individual goal. With 15 minutes remaining Belvedere went 3 - 1 ahead after the visitors' defence had failed to properly clear a corner kick and Kevin Dawson fired home from the edge of the box. Belvedere's back four were impressive in the second half with Robert Doran in particular in commanding form. With only minutes left to play Ogene sealed the result for Belvedere when he scored from a Keith Sheeran cross to make it 4 - 1. This win earns Belvedere a home tie with Rock Celtic in the 5th round next Saturday.

 7 UP /SFAI National Under 14 Goodson Cup 4th Round

Belvedere Under14's Premier team cruised into the last 32 of the competition with an emphatic win against Portmarnock. Two goals each for David Connolly and Paul Cahillane and one each from Cillian Sheridan and Niall Guilfoyle ( his first for Belvedere ) secured victory on the day. There were some quality goals scored, but the best of them came from the head of Paul Cahillane with a glancing header, from an inch perfect 30 yard pass from David Connolly. After the long lay-off with the Christmas break, it was good to get back into the swing of things. The next round is an away trip against Waterford Bohemians who will fancy their chances having beaten Belvedere already during a summer competition in Tipperary.

Team : M.Pidgeon, N.Guilfoyle(J.Cumberton), K.Fagan(K.Cox), R.Lawless, G.Breen, C.Sheridan(J.Buckley), B.Lonergan, F.McMahon(C.Pugh), D.Connolly, B.Bonny(S.Caffrey), P.Cahillane.

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After an impressive start to the season Belvedere's Under 11 team struggled a little just before Christmas, so it was good to get back on the winning track. A few changes were made in the line up with right full Lee Swords lining up in midfield with Graham Parkinson (Capt). The first ten minutes or so were very even and Celbridge might have taken the lead but for a great save from goalkeeper Gavin Flannagan. Things soon settled down however but Anthony Corcoran was substituted through injury and replaced by Emmet White. Emmet conjured up the first goal of the day by squaring the ball for Michael Tobin to tap home on 15 minutes. This was followed by a fine second goal scored by Darragh Raynor against his old team. Both Adam O'Brien and Darragh were playing up front together for the first time and they always looked dangerous, holding up the ball well while waiting for support from midfield. After the break Belvo continued where they left off with Lee Swords and Graham Parkinson running the show. Graham scored a great goal 15 minutes into the second half, and this was an added bonus for Graham as he was captaining the side for the first time. Lee Swords topped his super performance with Belvedere's final goal of the day and it could so easily have been more for Lee with several of his long range shots going just wide. Belvo's defence once again remained solid with excellent performances from Neil Byrne (Centre Half), Sean Rogers, Sean Slein and Jamie Reid, together with keeper Gavin to record yet another clean sheet.

Team managers Derek O'Brien, Graham Kearns and Anto Corcoran were well pleased with the performance stating: "Four nil at full time and we're all happy to be back on track. For kids so young this was excellent play and regardless of the results in the coming months this is the level of play we want."

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Belvedere Under 12's B continued on where they left off before the Christmas break with a good away win at Brickfields. The early exchanges were all even before Lloyd Cooney opened the scoring for Belvo on 20 minutes when he fired home after he had latched on to a lovely through pass from midfielder Mark McMahon. The home team were unlucky not to equalise early in the second half but they squandered a good chance in front of goal. With 20 minutes remaining Shane Deans headed home from a Robbie Sharkey corner kick to put Belvo 2 - 0 ahead. Sharkey also played a part in the third goal when he floated in a pin point cross for Cooney to blast home. With only minutes remaining in the game McMahon seized on a half chance to score the fourth goal for Belvedere and put the result beyond doubt.

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The journey to County Louth on Saturday proved to be a successful one for Belvedere Under 10's. Playing with a strong breeze in their favour in the first half, Belvo took full advantage of the conditions and went one ahead after only 10 minutes, thanks to Liam O'Dwyer's goal. Five minutes later, following strong pressure, John O'Sullivan blasted home to make it 2 - 0 for Belvedere . Gary Donoghue scored the third goal for the visitors, just before the break, when he finished well in front of goal. In the second half Drogheda, with the breeze behind them, piled on the pressure. They managed to pull a goal back after 10 minutes, but that was as much as they got. Belvo defended really well, with goalkeeper Dean Smith in great form. Despite the long grass and the bumpy pitch, Gavin Ivory in midfield, turned in a classy display of football for Belvedere to counter Drogheda's efforts. At the final whistle it was Belvo who booked their place in the next round of the Condron Cup. Manager Frank McGrath and his assistants will be well pleased with this performance.

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Belvo went a goal behind early in the game and then Ballyfermot doubled their lead mid way through the second half, against the run of play. Lee Swords had a great game for Belvo at right back and kept pushing forward supporting the attack. Belvo's pressure paid off in the end because with about 3 minutes remaining on the clock Adam O'Brien headed home a great goal and then within a minute Daniel Joyce equalised for Belvo with a lovely effort. Indeed Belvedere might have snatched a victory when Darragh Raynor shot wide of the mark with only seconds remaining.

This was certainly a game of two halves with the visitors leading 1 - 0 at half time. After the restart Belvo really upped their work rate with Mark McMahon dominating the middle of the park. Indeed McMahon scored a goal and helped set two more for Llyod Cooney as Belvo drew ahead. Eddie Staunton scored the fourth goal before Kevin Tyrell wrapped the game up for Belvedere with a well taken goal towards the end of the match.

Under 14 SFAI Goodson Cup ....... Belvedere F.C. 4 - 0 Verona F.C.

A hat - trick from David Connolly (17, 52 and 55 mins) and one from Paul Cahillane ( 28 ) was enough to see the 14's through to the next round when they travel to face Portmarnock F.C. Things might have been different if Matthew Pidgeon had not saved a penalty on 47 minutes when the score was two - nil. Strong performances from Cillian Sheridan and Felim McMahon in midfield ensured Verona never got into the game.

Team : M.Pidgeon, N.Guilfoyle(J.Cumberton), K.Cox, R.Lawless, G.Breen, B.Lonigan, F.McMahon, C.Sheridan, P.Cahillane(Bernard), D.Connolly, B.Bonny(S.Caffrey). Sub not used - J.Buckley.

Two goals from Gary Harte, one in each half secured a draw for Belvo against a tough Leixlip side at Fairview Park on Sunday. C.J. Halpin in mid field was in commanding form for Belvo running the show. Leading 1 - 0 at half time and well in control of the match, Belvedere lost left sided mid fielder Ciaran Maloney to injury early in the second half. Leixlip then came more into the game and they equalised after 10 minutes following some scrappy defending. Belvo then conceded a second goal from a free kick from outside the box. Belvedere fought hard to get back on level terms and with only minutes remaining in the match Alan Harmon saw his shot on goal hit the woodwork with the keeper well beaten. However, Harte was on hand to score his second goal off the rebound to earn Belvo a well deserved draw.

Trailing 1 - 0 at half time, Stephen Byrne equalised for Belvo from the penalty spot early in the second half, after the Home Farm keeper was red carded for a foul in the box. Belvo then began to dominate the play and created a number of missed chances. The second goal came from Stuart Hyland who scored with a header from a great cross mid way through the second half. This was shortly followed by a third goal for Belvo scored by Mark Duggan who finished off a lovely passing movement to seal the result for Belvedere.

This was a game that league leaders Belvedere will want to forget. They went a goal behind after only 2 minutes when an obvious off-side goal was allowed by the referee. Ten minutes later Home Farm went 2 up following some poor defending by the visitors. At times the game became physical with heavy tackling from both teams. Belvo, however played some nice football and created some good scoring chances. Michael Mooney was twice unlucky not to score but the keeper managed to get a hand in the way. Had Belvo scored then things might have been different , but instead it was the "Farm" who scored next to go 3 ahead before half time, to leave Belvo with an uphill struggle . In the second half Belvo tried to salvage something from the game but the final nail in the coffin was another off-side goal, unseen by the referee, probably because of the intense sun shining in his eyes. Despite this however, the better team won on the day.

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Belvedere had the better of the exchanges in the opening period but on 13 minutes they found themselves 1 - 0 down when goal keeper Shane Roche spilled a long range shot, and the Shel's striker nipped in to score off the rebound. Shels might have doubled their lead a few minutes later when some laxed defending by Belvo allowed the Shel's attacker to get through on goal, but the shot was wide of the target. Belvo soon regained control of the match and played some excellent passing football, causing all sorts of problems for the Shel's defence. Indeed, Michael Mooney twice came close with headers on target following some great crosses, but the Shel's keeper was alert to the danger. However, there was nothing the keeper could do on 23 minutes when, man of the match for Belvo, Evan Walsh fired home a shot from all of 25 yards to score a cracker of a goal. From the second half kick off Belvedere really upped the pace of the game with Scott Weir and Mark Healy dominating the mid-field. Belvo forced a number of consecutive corner kicks. Conor Powell delivered an in-swinging corner from the right which Mooney headed on target, only to see the keeper block. But, central defender Brian McCann was on hand to smash home the rebound to put Belvo 2 - 1 in front with only 3 minutes played. Shels created some chances but the Belvedere defence remained solid with goalkeeper Roche redeeming himself with some good ball handling. Up front, Mooney's heading ability combined with Walsh's pace continued to worry the Shel's defence, with Walsh going close twice. Twenty minutes from time Scott Weir went on a great individual run from mid-field, slipping past two Shelbourne defenders, before shooting low into the corner of the net to score Belvo's third goal. Belvedere continued to pressurise the Shel's defence in the closing stages of the game but at the final whistle the score remained 3 - 1.

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Belvedere produced a top drawer performance at Ellenfield Park to win 5 - 1. Left sided mid-fielder Kieran Maloney was in great form, scoring two goals in the first twenty minutes. Striker, Gary Harte added the third five minutes later with a well taken goal, after some good approach play. St. Kevins managed to pull a goal back but, with half time looming Belvo went 4 - 1 ahead thanks to David Walsh who scored from the penalty spot. St. Kevins came more into the game in the second half but they couldn't break down a strong Belvo defence, with Terry McGauley in commanding form at centre back. Unfortunately McGauley had to leave the field of play following a clash of heads with a St. Kevin's player. Belvo put the result beyond doubt mid-way through the second half when Maloney scored a great goal to complete his hat-trick. Manager Gerry Galligan and his assistants will be well pleased with this performance.

This was a typical cup tie with league form counting for nothing. Belvedere commanded most of the play but Tolka defended deeply, absorbing the strong pressure. Belvo should have scored on at least three occassions in the first half but the finishing was off target. Twenty minutes into the second half Micheal Mooney headed home but his effort was disallowed by the referee. Hero of the day for Belvo was Scott Weir who blasted home the winner from close range following a cross from the right with only five minutes of play remaining.

This was a game that Belvedere should have won comfortably. Graham Parkinson and Mark Roche controlled the middle of the pitch as did Darragh Raynor and Jamie Reid on the left. Belvo were well in command and went ahead on 15 minutes with a great finish from Lee Swords. But despite creating a number of goal scoring chances, Belvo failed to capitalise. Indeed, Belvedere will regret missing two penalty kicks, one in each half. Shels had few scoring chances, but they managed to equalise with 10 minutes remaining, against the run of play. At the final whistle the points were shared, but Belvedere, considering their chances in the match, will be disappointed not to have taken all three.

Following last week's 2 - 2 draw between the two teams at home, Belvedere really upped their performance at the Phoenix Park on Saturday. Belvo dominated the game and were 5 - 0 ahead at the break with 2 goals each from Kevin Tyrell , Lloyd Cooney and one from Mark McMahon . In the second half Eddie Staunton got his name on the score sheet to make it six for Belvo. This team continues to improve with each match and leading goal scorer Lloyd Cooney is one to watch for the future.

Dylan Pennie scored two goals in the first half from two crosses from his partner Bernard Ogene, who had an outstanding game. The defence played very well as a unit, with special recognition going to goalkeeper Peter Lyons who took off some fine saves. The central midfield pairing of Kevin Dawson and Mark Scannall did a great job, containing the St.Kevin's midfield and they played some lovely passes to wide players Thomas Meehan and Keith Murray, who tormented the Kevin's defence. Captain Daniel Langan was very pleased with the team's result.

The 14's good run of late came to a halt in Fairview on Saturday. Poor defending from two corner kicks for Orchard resulted in an uphill task for Belvedere. Although the sides were fairly evenly matched on play, it was the Orchard who scored first. Belvedere equalised on 20 minutes when Paul Cahillane went on a mazy run down the left and crossed the ball into the box for Brian Lonigan to poke it home from six yards. Orchard took the lead early in the second half and although Belvedere tried hard to get back into the game, Orchard wrapped up the points with a goal from a corner.

Team: Pidgeon, Guilfoyle (Comerfort), Fagan (Cox), Breen, Lawless, McMahon, Sheridan, Lonigan (Caffrey), Cahillane, Bonny, Connolly. Not used - Pugh.

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Cillian Sheridan opened the scoring after just two minutes with a near post header. Eight minutes later it was 2-0 with a penalty by David Connolly after he was taken down in the box. Connolly hit the bar a few minutes later with one of his trademark thunderbolts, with Brian Bonny scoring from the rebound only for his effort to be strangely ruled out for offside! On 23 minutes the goal of the game arrived. Paul Cahillane, with some clever thinking, scored it with an effort from 40 yards which caught ex-Belvo keeper Jamie Moore off his line. In fact Moore made some good saves to deny Belvo adding to the scoreline. Three second half goals followed from Cahillane, Brian Lonigan and Sheridan. Port's goal came when the score was 4-0 and at a time when the Belvedere defence decided to take a nap! Overall a good result for Belvedere which takes this team on a run of four wins. Man of the match was Belvedere defender Robert Lawless who turned in a great display.

Team: Pidgeon, Cumberton, Lawless, McMahon, Fagan, Lonigan, Sheridan, Caffrey, Cahillane, Connolly (Pugh), Bonny (Cox).

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Forced through injuries to make a number of positional changes, Belvedere produced a spirited display of football at Fairview Park on Sunday. Conor Powell playing wide on the left scored his first goal for Belvedere on 18 minutes and what a cracker it was. Following good work down the right by Ian Rennicks, the ball came to Michael Mooney who floated a delightful cross into the danger area. The ball was met at pace by the incoming Powell who headed home decisively from close range. Mooney scored Belvedere's second goal 5 minutes into the second half following a free kick from the left by Niall O'Reilly. The ball was headed back across the goal by Gerry McGovern, and Mooney headed home at the far post. Belvo were commanding in midfield with impressive displays from Scott Weir and team captain Mark Healy. Shane Roche, in goal, produced a fine save from a St. Kevin's glancing header 10 minutes after the break. Belvedere's third goal was scored from the penalty spot by Mooney mid way through the second half after Evan Walsh was fouled in the box. Overall this was an impressive performance by Belvedere against a tough St. Kevin's side who never stopped competing until the final whistle.

Belvo started brightly and created a couple of scoring chances which saw the Bohs keeper make some good saves. After 17 minutes Bohs went ahead. With Belvo on the attack the ball was intercepted and Bohs found a gap in the defence and punished the home side. With half time approaching, Keith Fagan let fly with a 30 yard effort which was well saved by the keeper who parried the shot into the path of David Connolly and he nearly burst the net as he scored his 9th. goal of the season. Into the second half, which was quite entertaining, Belvo always looked like scoring and did so in the 53rd. minute. Matthew Pidgeon found Brian Bonny from a kick out, he passed to David Connolly who hit a cross low and hard behind the Bohs defence to the on-rushing Colin Pugh, who toe-poked the ball into the net. Bohs tried hard to get an equaliser but couldn't break down a solid Belvedere defence, well organised by skipper Robert Lawless. Belvo scored the third goal in the dying minutes when Connolly put Bonny through and he chipped the keeper to score a smart goal.

A great second half performance saw Belvedere come from behind to earn a well deserved draw at Whitehall on Saturday. St. Kevins had the better of the exchanges in the first half and went in leading 2 - 0 at the break. Belvedere piled on the pressure in the second half and pulled a goal back after fifteen minutes when Stephen Doyle finished well from close range. Belvo continued to pressurise the St. Kevin's defence and with five minutes to go Donal Lenihan's shot was deflected into the net for the equaliser. With only a minute remaining, Lenihan was unlucky not to put Belvedere in front after he broke through the St. Kevin's defence only to see the keeper block his shot on goal.

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Shane Fitzgerald was in brilliant form on Sunday as Belvedere Under 16's Premier defeated Tolka Rovers 6 - 0 at Johnstown Park. "Fitzie" scored three goals and contributed to the other three, in a game that Belvedere dominated from start to finish. Belvo were rarely troubled at the back with James Lee and Brian McCann well in command at the heart of the defence. Gerry McGovern scored the first goal on ten minutes following an excellent passing movement on the right involving Niall O'Reilly, Michael Mooney and Fitzgerald who provided the measured cross. McGovern turned provider for the second goal after 18 minutes when he laid on a great pass for "Fitzie" with to score his first goal and Belvedere's second. Shortly afterwards, left full Conor Powell went on a great run, skipping past three defenders only to see his powerful shot blocked by the Tolka keeper. Just before the half time whistle Belvedere went three ahead when Micheal Mooney scored a great goal following a counter attack lead by Scott Weir. Five minutes into the second half Fitzgerald scored once again when he out-sprinted the Tolka defence with a run from the half way line to finish in style. Fifteen minutes later, when substitute Evan Walsh's shot hit the cross bar, "Fitzie" was on hand to score his third off the rebound. Within a few minutes, Walsh was unlucky a second time when, clean through on goal, the keeper blocked his shot. Not to be outdone however, Evan got his name on the score sheet with fifteen minutes remaining when he slotted home following a delightful one two passing movement with Mark Keane.

A goal down after 3 minutes, Belvedere equalised 7 minutes later with a great goal from Gary D'Arcy. Adam Merrie then put the Belvo ahead on 15 minutes with a well taken goal, following a good passing movement. 10 minutes into the second half Gary O'Donoghue increased the lead to 3 - 1 when he finished well in front of goal. Soon afterwards Shankill scored a second goal, but following strong pressure from the visitors they conceded an own goal to make it 4 - 2 for Belvedere who maintained their 100% record.

Two goals from Gerry McGovern, one after 2 minutes and the other on 20 minutes had Belvedere well in command of the game. Belvo should have gone further ahead in the first half but they squandered a number of good goal scoring chances. Belvedere continued the pressure in the second half but conceded a very soft goal following a mistake by the goalkeeper on 20 minutes. This seemed to inspire Sherrif who now went on to cause some problems for the Belvo defence. Shane Roche in goal redeemed himself with some fine saves to deny Sherrif. Belvedere took the 3 points at the final whistle but will reflect back on the missed chances they had to win more convincingly.

A goal from James Perry was enough to earn Belvedere the full points at Johnstown Park, Finglas. Belvo dominated the match with Jake Carroll in brilliant form, running at the Tolka defence, but lacking the finishing touch in front of goal. With the score still 0 - 0 midway through the second half, Donal Lenihan latched on to a great through pass from midfield and ran at the Tolka defence. He then checked back and played an excellent ball to team mate Perry who blasted home from close range. Despite more Belvedere pressure the game finished 1 - 0.

There were no goals in this match but plenty of action as Belvedere dominated the first half. Up front , Bernard Ogene was causing the Home Farm defence all sorts of problems and he was unlucky not to score on a number of occassions. In the second half Home Farm came more into the game and only for some solid defending by Belvo the Farm might have gone ahead late in the second half. But Belvedere showed great spirit and held on to earn a well deserved draw.

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 Under 16's Premier ..........Ardmore Rovers 1 - 2 Belvedere F.C.

Belvedere made the trip to County Wicklow to play Ardmore Rovers on Sunday and returned with the 3 points. This was a very physical game played on a hard bumpy pitch. Belvo dominated the play for long periods and should have been a few goals up in the first half, but they failed to capitalise on some excellent scoring opportunities. Central defender James Lee opened the scoring for Belvedere on 40 minutes when he blasted home from close range, following a corner kick. The second half was similar to the first with the visitors failing to punish Ardmore for their mistakes at the back. With 10 minutes remaining, substitute Gerry McGovern scored a beautiful headed goal following a good build up on the left. Within 3 minutes Ardmore had pulled a goal back when the Belvedere defence failed to clear the ball properly from a cross. The final few minutes were hectic and Ardmore had a man red carded. Belvedere kept their composure and went on to secure a good away win.

An excellent display of football by Belvedere produced 6 goals at Dundrum's DFRC Centre. Lloyd Cooney up front was unstoppable, scoring five goals to take his tally for the season so far to 27 . His namesake Lloyd Staunton played some great football and got his name on the score sheet with a well taken goal. Belvo were always in command and lead 2 - 0 at half time. Eddie Staunton in midfield was, once again, in brilliant form and he ran the show for the visitors. He controlled the middle of the park for Belvedere and set up the Cooney with a number of defence splitting passes.

 Under 13's Premier ...............Broadford Rovers 1 - 2 Belvedere F.C.

Hero of the day for Belvedere was Gary Homan who stood in as goalkeeper at short notice when Peter Lyons became ill. Dylan Pennie opened the scoring for Belvo on 5 minutes when he scored a lovely individual goal, dribbling past three defenders before rounding the Broadford goalie to pass the ball into an empty net. Despite strong pressure from Belvo the score remained 1 - 0 at half time. Not long after the break, Rovers equalised from the penalty spot when Homan in goal was judged to have fouled when he dived at the strikers feet to save a certain goal. With 15 minutes remaining, Mark Scannell produced a piece of magic when he spotted the keeper off his line and from 30 yards out lobbed the ball over the keeper into the net, to put Belvo back in the lead. Rovers tried hard for an equaliser but the Belvedere back four were in top form and the "Boys in Blue" went on to take the three points.

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To go to Ellenfield and get a result is normally a good thing, but to win eight nil has to be a great day's work!

Brian Lonigan got Belvo off to a great start scoring after four minutes from a corner delivered by Paul Cahillane. Paul decided to get in on the act and scored a first half hat-trick with a couple of the efforts straight out of the top drawer! The team started the second half as they left off from the first, with more goals and some fine play. It was one of those games you didn't want to end as everyone was enjoying the performance from the team. David Connolly scored a second half hat-trick scoring his goals with great power and accuracy. Colin Pugh wrapped up the scoring with his first ever goal for Belvedere when he creeped in at the far post to finish off a great move. Altogether a great day at the office for Damien Byrne's boys!

Despite being in control of the game for long periods in the first half, Belvo could not break down the strong "Joey's" defence, particularly their keeper who was in great form, and it was nil all at half time. However, midway through the second half Scott Weir opened the scoring for Belvo when he finished well after the visitors failed to clear the ball, following a lovely cross from Shane Fitzgerald on the right wing. Within a few minutes half time substitute Evan Walsh, just back from injury, scored a lovely second goal to seal the result for Belvedere.

The Under 11's Premier continued their impressive run in the league with a 3 - 2 win over Shamrock Rovers at Fairview Park. Belvedere lead 1 - 0 at half time thanks to a well taken goal by Adam O'Brien. Rovers equalised 5 minutes after the restart but shortly after that Michael Tobin netted for Belvo to restore their lead. Belvedere then went 3 - 1 ahead when Neil Byrne finished well following a good passing movement. Towards the end of the match Rovers scored a second goal but the Belvedere defence held strong until the final whistle to take the three points.

The long journey across the city proved to be a successful one for Belvedere Under 12's Premier when they defeated Cabinteely Boys 2 - 0. It was all evens up to 15 minutes until Belvedere went ahead with a well taken goal by Stephen Doyle. The score remained 1 - 0 at half time as Belvedere's defence held steady despite pressure from the host's attack. Belvedere played some nice football in the second half but only got their reward with 5 minutes to go when Brian Carroll scored Belvedere's second to wrap up the game.

 Under 13's Premier ............... Belvedere F.C. 4 - 0 St. Francis

Daniel Langan scored Belvedere's first goal after only 3 minutes when he finished well following a corner kick. This was just the start Belvo needed and they doubled their lead on 20 minutes with a smashing left footed volley from Keith Sheeran, following a good passing movement. 5 minutes into the second half Dylan Pennie scored a lovely goal to extend Belvedere's lead to three. With Belvo well in command of the game, Thomas Meehan scored with 5 minutes remaining to make the score 4 - 0 for the "Boys in Blue" and finish off a great team performance.

Felim McMahon scored with a volley on 30 minutes to send his team in at half- time deservedly one - nil up. Belvedere should have increased their lead in the first five minutes of the second half as they had some good chances. However, as the game went on Joey's came more into it and equalised through bad marking from a corner kick, and scored their second goal when their winger rounded the full - back and slotted the ball in the net. Belvedere should have equalised in the last five minutes as they piled on the pressure, but they just couldn't find the target.

After 10 minutes the visitors were awarded a dubious penalty but Belvedere keeper Keith Sullivan pulled off a great save to deny Drogheda. Belvedere began to dominate the match and had countless scoring chances. However, the Drogheda goalkeeper was in fine form, denying Belvedere on a number of occasions. The break through came on 35 minutes when Stephen Byrne opened the scoring for Belvo with a super strike on goal. Just before half time Drogheda equalised when they capitalised on a mistake by the Belvedere defence. Belvedere continued to dominate the play but failed to score again until midway through the second half when Stephen Byrne finished off a lovely passing move with a well taken goal. Shortly afterwards Drogheda conceded an own goal to make it 3 -1. With the visitors now in disarray, goals flowed in the last ten minutes for Belvedere with Darren O'Brien, Paul McKeown and Mark Duggan getting on the score sheet.

Two well taken goals from Conor Lenihan in the 13th and 18th minutes put Belvedere well in command at the AUL Complex. Shels pulled one back with a penalty after a hand ball in the box on 22 minutes. Belvedere had numerous chances to extend their lead but failed to do so before the break. 3 minutes into the second half Michael Mooney scored the third for Belvo. Ten minutes later Shels scored at the far post following a corner kick. Belvedere soon restored their two goal lead when Gerry McGovern lobbed the keeper following a lovely through pass from Mark Healy.

Belvedere's Under 10A maintained their 100% record with a good home win against Cambridge Boys. With the score nil all at half time, Belvo turned on the style early in the second half with a brilliant headed goal from Liam O'Dwyer. Belvedere then took control of the match when Adam Merrie scored two nice goals within a few minutes. With the result beyond doubt, Graham Burke scored Belvedere's fourth goal following a neat passing movement.

This was a tough match with some excellent football played by both teams. The home side piled on the pressure at times but Belvedere's man of the match, goalkeeper Shane Roche, produced a number of excellent saves to deny Lourdes Celtic. Belvedere had their fair share of the action and tested the Lourdes defence on a number of occassions. Late in second half Scott Weir played a lovely through ball to Gerry McGovern who lobbed the advancing Lourdes keeper only to see his effort cruelly rebound off the woodwork. The match looked like ending in a nil all draw but five minutes into injury time a lapse in concentration by the Belvedere defence cost them dearly when they let the Lourdes Celtic striker in to score the winner.

Trailing 1 - 0 at half-time in their first round cup tie with Manortown United, Belvedere Under 12's Premier really upped their performance in the second half. James Perry scored twice in close succession and then Lee Duffy made it 3 -1 for Belvedere with 10 minutes to go. Dean Gaynor put the result beyond doubt when he scored Belvedere's fourth goal late in the game. Manager Wesley Robb and his assistants will be pleased with the strong Belvo come back in the second half.

Conor Melville opened the scoring for Belvedere in the 10th minute with a well taken goal. This was followed by two goals from Bernard Ogene to leave the score 3 - 0 at the break. In the second half Bernard completed his hat-trick with a fine effort when he scored Belvedere's fourth goal. Daniel Langan sealed the game for Belvedere with a well taken goal to finish off a great team performance.

Under 14's Thunder Cup 1st Round....... Belvedere F.C. 8 - 0 Wayside Celtic.

Belvedere dominated the match from the start to finish. A first ever hat-trick for wing wizard Paul Cahillane, with a decent spread of the remainder of goals in this one sided game in Fairview Park. David Connolly (2), Brian Bonny, Stephen Caffrey and Jonathan Buckley were the other scorers. Goalkeeper Matthew Pidgeon made sure his team kept a clean sheet when he made an excellent save from a penalty.

Under 12's Premier

Belvedere Under 12's Premier had a great 2 - 1 home win against St. Joseph's Boys. They went a goal behind early in the match but Dean Gaynor equalised before the break. Ten minutes into the second half Remus Marcu scored a cracker of a goal for Belvo after Joey's defence failed to clear from a corner.

The Under 14's Premier trailed Shelbourne from a penalty goal mid-way through the first half but Gary Breen scored the equaliser on the stroke of half - time when he scored from a corner kick. However a mistake by the Belvedere 'keeper allowed Shels to sneak a winner which was very harsh on a Belvo side which fought hard throughout the game and deserved a bit more than a 2 -1 defeat for their efforts.

Belvedere's Under 16's Premier maintained their 100% record when they won 2 - 0 at home to Shamrock Rovers. Solid goalkeeping by Shane Roche deprived Rovers of a first half lead when he blocked a fierce shot after the Hoops striker was clean through on goal. On twenty minutes Micheal Mooney scored a penalty after he was fouled in the Rovers box. Shortly afterwards Belvedere were reduced to ten men when Mooney was harshly red carded after he reacted to being bundled down by the Rovers centre half. Despite this, Belvedere continued to dominate the match and they sealed the victory when Mark Keane scored from a lovely cross by Shane Fitzgerald.

No, its not the headline from Ireland's recent draw with Turkey but from the Under 14's Premier match on Saturday 13 September against St Kevin's Boys at Fairview Park. Belvedere's David Connolly scored a brilliant individual goal when he picked the ball up at the halfway line and set off towards goal, getting past St. Kevin's two central defenders before slotting the ball past the visiting keeper. His team mate Gary Breen was outstanding at centre back helping Belvedere to keep a clean sheet and take the three points. Belvedere's Felim McMahon headed against the bar in the closing minutes from an excellent cross from Paul Cahillane.

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