Under 15 Premier Match Reports 2006/07

Thursday 17th May  2007

SFAI Under 15 Evans Cup Final

Belvedere F.C.  3 - 2  Crumlin United  ( A.E.T. )

Belvedere arrived at Whitehall on Thursday evening, hoping for a change in fortune as they faced Crumlin United in the SFAI Under 15 Evans Cup Final.  Belvo, despite playing the better football in their two previous encounters with Crumlin this season in the league and Conway Cup , were unlucky to lose both matches. 

With defender Derek Kierans suspended, under 14 player Matty Doherty came in at right back. Captain Paul Corry had the first effort of the game after only two minutes, his powerful shot from 30 yards was excellently tipped over the crossbar by the goalkeeper, a good start for "the boys in blue".

Dean Gaynor tested the 'keeper minutes later while the Crumlin striker blazed a shot over after six minutes. Belvo were playing far from their best in the first half, and Crumlin had a number of good chances. Goalkeeper Danny Henry pulled off a good save on 18 minutes.

Three minutes later a long-throw caused Belvo problems, the Crumlin number 8 header off the crossbar, a lucky escape. After 20 minutes Crumlin took a deserved lead. Henry came out to win a through ball but the striker nipped in ahead of him before slotting home into an empty net from a tight angle.

On 27, Jimmy Keohane had his deflected shot saved. Five minutes later Gary Burke's speculative effort from 35 yards was palmed over the bar. At half time Belvo  were only one down, and there was another 40 minutes to go, so things could only get better.

Henry came to the rescue of his side just after the break, to excellently save one-on-one. That chance gave Belvo somewhat of a wake-up call and they began to play some nice football, in search of an equaliser.

A Harney long throw-in was wonderfully headed in from six yards by the excellent David Lodola to make it 1-1. On 66 minutes, Henry had to limp off injured, and he was replaced by Under 13 'keeper Dean Smith. Four minutes later Lodola nicked a header just over following a great cross from the right. 

Crumlin gave Belvo another scare when they hit the post but, it looked like there was only going to be one winner at this stage. Dean Gaynor was taken off and Chris Kerr, who has been in excellent form came on to add a bit of skill to the midfield as extra time loomed.

Captain Corry limped off injured and Under 14 player Ross O'Connor replaced him. Garvan Broughall, who was in inspired form for Belvo at the back almost scored after seven minutes of extra time, his volley was wonderfully saved by the Crumlin 'keeper.

Smith made an excellent save to deny a Crumlin header from a corner but the linesman on the far side, who could not have seen through a post and a host of bodies, signalled for a goal and Crumlin were ahead again.

But not for long, as Lodola was tripped in the box shortly afterwards, and up stepped the "ice-man" Keohane, under huge pressure, to bury the ball home. Two each and a few minutes to grab the winner?? or would it be penalties??

Who needs penalties when David O'Connor is around ? Belvo certainly didn't, because he scored the winning goal in the second period of extra time, bravely heading past the advancing goalkeeper and into the net to send everyone into raptures.

With four minutes left to defend, could Belvo do it? Too right they could, and the All Ireland cup was coming home to Belvo. What an amazing game, and an amazing comeback. There were scenes of wild celebration among players, managers and supporters as captain Paul Corry lifted the SFAI Under 15 Evans Cup. 

Belvo team - Henry (Smith, 66), Doherty ( O'Rourke, ET) , Finn, Broughall, Harney, Keohane, Corry (c) ( R O'Connor, ET) , Traynor, Gaynor ( Kerr, 78),
Burke ( D O'Connor, ), Lodola

Report - Jamie  

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Tuesday 8th May 2007

DDSL Under 15 Premier League

Shamrock Rovers  0 - 1   Belvedere F.C.

Carolan Park in Tallaght was the venue on Tuesday as Belvedere sought a repeat of their SFAI Cup victory over Shamrock Rovers earlier in the season. An injury hit Belvo had to do without David Lodola, Gary Burke and Jason Finn who all nursing injuries.

Jimmy Keohane had his first of three chances on four minutes. He was put through and shot from 18 yards but, the goalkeeper made an excellent save down to his left. The same two players were involved in the next chance, this time Keohane, after a great run, forced another good save from the Rovers 'keeper.

On 22 minutes the man from Kilkenny forced a save again from the net-minder, following lovely skill down the right hand side, before he cut in and shot straight at the goalkeeper. 

A few minutes later, the skilful Chris Kerr, who had another excellent game in midfield, was fouled in the box, however the referee played the advantage but striker Dean Gaynor could not finish past the in-form 'keeper.

Keohane's floated free-kick was flicked towards goal by defender Garvan Broughall on 31 minutes, it looked for a minute as if it was going in, but the goalkeeper once again saved, while two minutes later Gaynor's well hit volley went straight into the 'keeper's hands.

David O'Connor was almost in just before the break, but for an excellent saving tackle. And so at half time, despite being by far the better side, with Stephen Traynor, Paul Corry and Kerr controlling midfield, and having missed numerous chances, it remained scoreless.

Six minutes after the restart Belvo broke the deadlock with an excellent goal. Corry and Broughall worked a nice quick free-kick in midfield, the latter went on a run through midfield ( like his Spurs idol Michael Dawson), and played in O'Connor with a great pass. 

O'Connor's shot was blocked by the 'keeper but Gaynor was on hand to fire the rebound into an empty net from 16 yards, to open the score for Belvo and hopefully more goals to come. On 55 minutes, Corry played an excellent ball to Keohane, but the goalkeeper kept it out. 

Derek Kierans look assured at full-back, and got forward at every opportunity as Belvo were searching for another goal to kill off the game. Central defenders Broughall and Neil Harney as usual kept things solid at the back, as did 'keeper Danny Henry.

Just after the hour mark Henry, who had little to do all evening, made a save from a free kick. Gaynor forced a final save from the goalkeeper in the fourth minute of injury time, just before the final whistle sounded and Belvo secured the 3 points.

The slender score line did not reflect the play as Belvo had produced some lovely flowing football in the match and can consider themselves unlucky not to have won by a bigger margin. 

Belvo can now concentrate fully on getting their squad fit and ready for their next match, which is the SFAI Evans Cup Final against Crumlin United on Thursday week.

Belvo team - Henry, Dowling-Byrne, Kierans, Broughall, Harney, Traynor, Corry (c), Kerr, Keohane, O'Connor, Gaynor.

Report - Jamie

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Sunday 6th May 2007

DDSL Under 15 Conway Cup ( Semi-Final )

Dublin rivals Crumlin United were visitors to Glasnevin on Sunday afternoon to play Belvedere in the semi final of the DDSL Conway Cup. Following a good home win over Home Farm on Tuesday night, Belvo were hopeful of reaching their second cup final of the season with a win.

Captain Paul Corry, Stephen Traynor, Gary Burke and David Lodola, all rested on Tuesday with injuries, returned to the starting line up, while David O'Connor and Chris Kerr dropped to the bench.

Traynor had the first effort of the game, he shot wide from just outside the box, that after two minutes. Crumlin were to make their first chance count. They got through very easily and when the Belvo defence failed to clear the danger, the midfielder finished well from 16 yards to make it 1-0.

Jimmy Keohane had a shot deflected into the path of Dean Gaynor just before the quarter hour, but the flag went up for offside. It was Gaynor who had Belvo's next chance, his glancing header went wide after an excellent cross from Belvo's best player on the day, Traynor.

On 25 minutes, Gary Burke limped off with a reoccurrence of his leg injury, to be replaced by David O'Connor.  This was a big blow for Belvo as Burke's excellent link-up skills would be missed. Six minutes later Crumlin doubled their lead. Again all Belvo's own mistakes, a simple long-ball in, a flick on and a shot from an unmarked player made it 2-0.

With main striker Lodola limping very badly with an ankle injury, Burke already off and two goals behind at half time things didn't look too good for Belvo. However, an early goal would get them right back into the game.

Centre back Neil Harney stung the palms of the goalkeeper on 45, but not to worry as Belvo got themselves back into the match just two minutes later. Jimmy Keohane's pin-point cross found Gaynor, who expertly volleyed home into the far corner to make it 2-1.

The ever dependable Derek "gunshot" Kierans made an excellent saving tackle minutes later, to deny Crumlin a third goal. And on 55 minutes that man Keohane worked his magic again. 

His mazy run down the right and into the box, won his side a penalty after a clumsy challenge, he picked himself up, dusted himself off and scored from 12 yards, despite the best efforts of the 'keeper, who got a touch but couldn't keep it out.

Belvo were now well on top, playing good passing football and causing Crumlin problems. Corry and co were dominating midfield, Lodola was holding the ball up very well up front, while full backs Kierans and Jason Finn were solid, as were centre-backs Broughall and Harney, while Gaynor's pace was a threat all game. 

On 69 Harney almost scored an excellent goal. His 35 yard thunderbolt of a free kick was wonderfully tipped over the crossbar by the goalkeeper. From the resulting corner Garvan Broughall headed over.

So extra time it was... could another 20 minutes separate the two teams, who had won one half each, or would it be the dreaded penalty shootout ?. At half time in extra time, it certainly looked that way.

Keohane made a great run and shot two minutes after the restart, the 'keeper saved but the ball squirmed from his grasp but, nobody was there to convert the rebound. Then, just when it looked like a penalty shoot-out would decide the match, disaster struck for Belvo. 

With a minute left in the match, Crumlin won a free kick for a foul in the middle of the pitch. From the resulting long ball into the penalty area, which Belvo should have dealt with, up got the unmarked striker to head home and send his side into the final to play Cherry Orchard.

There is not much to say after being cruelly beaten in the last minute of extra time in the cup. An excellent second half and extra time performance, great determination to battle on by the players, and wonderful team spirit to get back to 2-2 when they looked dead and buried, are the positives for Belvo.

Both sides will face each other again in the SFAI Evans Cup Final on the 17th May and Belvo will confident of their chances, following their second half and extra time display today, 

Belvo team - Henry, Kierans, Finn, Harney, Broughall, Keohane, Corry (c), Traynor, Burke ( O'Connor,25 ), Gaynor, Lodola Subs: O'Connor, Kerr, Sexton.

Report - Jamie Moore

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Tuesday 1st May 2007

DDSL Under 15 Premier League

Belvedere F.C.  2 - 1   Home Farm

Following an excellent 5-1 win over Douglas Hall on Sunday to reach the SFAI All Ireland final, Belvedere arrived to a sunny "fortress Fairview" on Tuesday evening to take on local rivals Home Farm in a league game. 

Captain Paul Corry, midfield partner Stephen Traynor and striker's David Lodola and Gary Burke were all carrying injuries and were rested, so Danny Joyce, Chris Kerr, Dean Gaynor and Ross O'Connor came into the team. The dry, hard and bumpy pitch was not going to make it easy for either side.

Belvo began the game the better of the two sides but were finding it difficult to get their passing game going. Centre backs Garvan Broughall and  Neil Harney mopped up everything at the back, while goalkeeper Danny Henry had little to do in the opening minutes.

After seven minutes Jimmy Keohane put in a deep cross, which the goalkeeper did well to claw away, but Belvo had nobody at the back-post to pick up the loose ball. Man of the match Chris Kerr, who showed excellent skill throughout the game ( including a Cruyff turn that the great man himself would have been proud of ), set up a half-chance for Keohane, but he scuffed his left-footed shot and it was easily saved.

Nine minutes in Belvo had their first scare at the back. A long ball caught the defence asleep, Henry was hesitant but luckily the striker lobbed just over. On 24 minutes, Belvo created the best move of the match so far, Dean Gaynor and David O'Connor combined to set up namesake Ross, the defender got back just in time to clear for a corner.

Keohane's next excellent cross game a minute later, left-back Jason Finn got there first, Farm eventually scrambled the ball away. Ross O'Connor shot wide on 32, while Gaynor's dangerous cross was well cleared just after. At the break, despite not playing at their best, Belvo were certainly confident of finding the goals they needed in the second period.

Four minutes into the second half, a Belvo attack led to Kerr volleying over from 20 yards. Jason Finn then retired suffering from a groin strain, and was replaced by Stephen Traynor who slotted into the right full position while Derek Kierans switched to left back.

On 52 minutes, Belvo got the breakthrough they deserved. Determined play down the right by Gaynor set up Under 14 player Ross O'Connor, and he nipped in ahead of the defender to score, with the help of the near post, from six yards.

Keohane shot wide twice in quick succession before the hour mark, but Belvo were hunting for a second to kill the game off. That goal game on 59 minutes and  Keohane this time was the provider to Kerr who controlled well, settled himself and fired home from 12 yards, through a cluster of players. 

With Belvo now in control of the match, that should have been game over. Referee Gerry McClinton then showed some common sense in the hot conditions, stopping the match for a water break so both teams could get some much needed fluids on board. 

Eight minutes from time Home Farm got themselves a life-line following a mix up in the Belvo defence. Kierans and 'keeper Henry between them failed to deal with a  long ball into the box and the Home Farm striker scored from six yards.

The goal gave the visitors new hope and they created three further opportunities to equalise in the last five minutes, the first a shot wide, the second a powerful header over, while the third was a free-kick which was brilliantly blocked by the Belvo wall. 

Belvo survived however, to keep their winning run going. Next up is Crumlin United on Sunday in the Conway Cup semi-final, while the SFAI Evans Cup Final is fixed for Thursday 17th May in Whitehall.

Belvo team - Henry, Kierans, Finn ( Traynor, 42 ), Broughall, Harney, Keohane, Kerr, Joyce, R O'Connor, D O'Connor, Gaynor.

Report - Jamie Moore

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Sunday 29th April  2007

SFAI Under 15 Evans Cup ( Semi- Finals )

Belvedere F.C.   5 - 1  Douglas Hall F.C. 

Belvedere welcomed their visitors from Cork, Douglas Hall to Glasnevin for an afternoon kick off, with a place in the final of the All Ireland cup at stake. The visitors had beaten Rivervalley Rangers 3-2 in the last round, while Belvo defeated Shelbourne after extra time to reach the semi's.

David Lodola, with a badly bruised foot, was just about passed fit and started up-front, alongside David O'Connor and Gary Burke. Derek Kierans continued at right-back while Paul Corry and Neil Harney, just back from International duty also started.

It took Belvo less then a minute to create their first chance. Jimmy Keohane's corner was powerfully headed towards goal by Lodola, it crashed off the underside of the crossbar, and looked to have crossed the line but the linesman said no, and it remained scoreless.

Not to worry for the "boys in blue" as they took the lead after only three minutes. Keohane played in Burke with a great pass, and he calmly slotted past the advancing goalkeeper from 16 yards to make it 1-0.

Belvo were well on top as the game continued, Garvan Broughall and Harney remained composed at the back, while full backs Finn and Kierans were getting forward at every opportunity. Stephen Traynor, who had an excellent game, Corry and Keohane completely controlled the middle of the pitch, while Burke was excellent as usual linking up the play.

On the quarter hour mark Belvo doubled their lead, Captain Corry getting his third of the season, and what a goal it was. Finn and O'Connor combined well to set up Burke, who then laid off to Corry, and he smashed an un-stoppable left-footed strike into the top corner from 25 yards, giving the 'keeper no chance.

Three minutes later Keohane did his best to score a goal even better then Corry's. The ball broke to him on the right hand side of the box, and he cracked home, again into the top corner, to make it three, and possibly put the game beyond the men from Cork.

Man of the match David Lodola showed his determination to create an opportunity for Burke. He chased a ball into the corner, won it back, broke through and slid across to Burke, but his shot was deflected wide.

O'Connor twice tested the 'keeper in the five minutes before half-time. The first was excellently tipped wide by the 'keeper, and he pushed the second over the cross bar for a great save. At half time Belvo were in complete control, 3-0 ahead, and only complacency could cost them a place in the final. 

Seven minutes into the second half Lodola scored the goal his performance deserved. Burke's excellent skill and run down the right led to a great cross which the 6 foot 4 inch front-man brilliantly finished with his left foot from six yards. 

With the result now beyond doubt, both pre-match injury doubts Lodola and Traynor were withdrawn for well earned rests and replaced by Dean Gaynor and Chris Kerr. 

On 52 minutes, Douglas Hall scored a consolation goal. Belvo 'keeper Danny Henry, who had little to do all day, dropped a cross under pressure from a striker, and the ball was scrambled in. On 65 minutes, Harney, suffering with a cold, was replaced by Danny Joyce.

Three minutes later Burke took a heavy tumble as he raced through on the right, injuring his leg. Belvo were cautious and immediately replaced him with Ross O'Connor.

On 72 minutes, Gaynor restored Belvo's four goal lead when O'Connor played an excellent through ball. Gaynor's pace took him in and he finished really well to make it 5 - 1. With 10 minutes remaining, 'keeper Henry was replaced by Under 14 'keeper Craig Sexton, who kept a clean sheet.

And so at the final whistle it was Belvo who booked their place in the SFAI Cup Final where they will play Crumlin United. To be fair to the visitors they never stopped trying but they proved to be no match on the day for this impressive Belvo team who were worthy winners.

With a league game against Home Farm on Tuesday night, a league cup semi-final next weekend, hopefully Belvo's excellent form will continue until the end of the season.

Belvo team - Henry ( Sexton, 73), Kierans, Broughall, Harney ( Joyce, 65), Finn, Keohane, Corry (c), Traynor ( Kerr, 48), Burke ( O'Connor, 68), Lodola ( Gaynor, 48), O'Connor

Report - Jamie Moore

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Sunday 15th April  2007

SFAI Under 15 Evans Cup ( 1/4 Finals )

Shelbourne F.C.  1 - 2  Belvedere F.C. ( A.E.T. )

Belvedere arrived at a sun-kissed AUL Complex on Sunday to take on Dublin rivals Shelbourne for a place in the last four of the all-Ireland Cup. Having beaten Shels 2-0 in their last league game before Easter, Belvo were hopeful of more of the same.

Belvo created the first chance of any real note after eight minutes, striker David Lodola, who worked hard all game, flicked on to Captain Paul Corry, who had a very impressive first half, his shot from 18 yards was easily saved, by the Shelbourne goalkeeper, who had an excellent game between the sticks.

Two minutes later Belvo were denied a "stone wall" penalty, when pacey Dean Gaynor was brought down by two defenders, but the referee waved play on. On 12 minutes Belvo had another shout for a spot-kick denied, again when Gaynor went down in the box.

Belvedere goalkeeper Danny Henry, who had very little to do all game made an excellent save in the 14th minute. Shels put together one of their few passing moves of the game down Belvo's right, which ended with Henry reacting well to save with his feet after a close-range shot.

Three minutes later midfielder Jimmy Keohane whipped in a great corner kick, 6 foot 4 inch Lodola unsurprisingly rose highest but his powerful header unluckily crashed off the crossbar and out.

In the 20th minute Shelbourne took the lead, against the run of play. Following a long kick out by the Shels' keeper, the ball was allowed to bounce by the Belvo defence, and the Shels' striker controlled well before slotting the ball into the bottom corner.

Nice link-up play down the right involving Gaynor and the impressive Stephen Traynor led to the former curling the ball in, but Lodola headed over from eight yards. Keohane had a shot saved on 28, while Henry had an easy save of his own to make a minute later.

At half-time, despite dominating the game Belvo were behind but, still well in control. Ten minutes after the break Lodola's looping header was easily saved. On 53 minutes Belvo got a deserved equaliser. 

Neil Harney's long-throw caused problems in the Shels' box, the ball broke to the nippy Gary Burke and he coolly half-volleyed into the net through a cluster of players from 16 yards. Game on....

Belvo were now well on top, Henry, Corry and Lodola all picked up slight injuries but battled on. Burke had a volley but it was saved. In added time, with the game heading for extra-time, Lodola almost won it, a great control and volley from the corner of the box was well saved. Extra time it was.

Nine minutes into extra time, Gaynor went very close, his wonderful volley from 18 yards flew inches past the far-post with the 'keeper beaten. However Gaynor was not to be denied because 5 minutes from time he scored what proved to be the winner. Shels failed to clear a dangerous cross into the box and the ball fell to the man from Ardee and he finished well to send his side into the last 4. 

A great team performance was rewarded with a great win, Kierans and Finn at full back did very well, as did central defenders Garvan Broughall and Harney, who looked as assured as ever and marshalled the Shels strikers very well. 

Traynor, Man of The Match Corry and Keohane ruled the middle of the park, while Burke, Lodola and Gaynor were a threat all game. Its onwards and upwards from here, as Belvo now have a home tie with Douglas Hall F.C. from Cork in the semi-finals of the SFAI Evans Cup.

Belvo team - Henry, Kierans, Finn, Broughall, Harney, Keohane, Traynor, Corry (c), Burke, Gaynor, Lodola. Subs: O'Connor, Kerr, Sexton, Doherty, O'Rourke. 

Report - Jamie Moore

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Sunday 25th March 2007

DDSL Under 15 Premier League

Leixlip United  0 - 4   Belvedere F.C.

It may have been their fourth successive away game, and exactly a month since their last league outing, but Belvedere under 15 Premier side were in complete control from start to finish in this highly impressive victory at the Leixlip Amenities Centre.

Despite Leixlip's attempts to upset the applecart through their direct approach, Belvo went about their business in a confident and assured manner, never allowing the home side into the game. 

After a couple of early long range strikes which failed to hit the target, Belvo began to create a few gaps in the home side's defence. Receiving the ball in a central position 30 yards from goal, Jimmy Keoghane cleverly opened the play to the right hand side to Gary Burke. 

With his first touch having taken him past the full back, Burke crossed low towards David Lodola, only for one of the home side's defenders to just about clear the danger. 

With the trio of Keoghane, Steven Traynor and Paul Corry completely controlling midfield, and Jason Finn and Robbie Dowling-Byrne getting forward well from full back, Belvo were becoming more and more threatening. It seemed only a matter of when and not if, Belvo would open the scoring.

When they did break the deadlock, they did it in style. Again the move came down Belvo's right, involving Burke, Robbie Dowling-Byrne and Jimmy Keoghane, with the latter whipping a teasing cross towards the back post which the onrushing David O'Connor threw himself full length to meet with a bullet of a diving header. 

A wonderful goal by O'Connor, his second in as many league games, although the players bravery in scoring the goal resulted in a nasty knock to his back, which eventually saw him be replaced by Chris Kerr.

Although only leading by a single goal at the break, Belvo always looked in control of this game. With Kerr, Burke and Lodola all looking dangerous in the final third, they seemed confident of stepping it up a gear and finishing the game off with more goals in the second half.

After a relatively low-key opening few minutes of the second half, Belvo duly doubled their lead, this time through Gary Burke. As Leixlp moved forward in an attempt to get themselves back on level terms, the ball broke to Burke in the middle of the pitch. 

He turned a played a delightful pass with the outside of his right foot around the last defender and into the path of David Lodola. Although perhaps marginally offside !, the ref waved play on, and Lodola did well to round the 'keeper and stay on his feet. Having been forced wide, his cross eventually fell to Burke, who finished brilliantly with a left footed half volley into the roof of the net.

At this stage Belvo had begun to move up through the gears and were looking confident of scoring more goals. Though Leixlip fought to get themselves back into the game, they created little and, despite being without regular number 1, Danny Henry, Belvo never appeared to be troubled at the back. 

Henry, injured yesterday in training, was replaced by under 14 keeper Craig Sexton, who, although rarely threatened, was calm and confident in goal throughout. 

In front of him, the all Athlone central defensive partnership of Neil Harney and Garvan Broughall, (who looked fearsome as he sported a true centre half's black eye!), continue to impress and looked unruffled all day.

With this solid base, Belvo continued to pour forward in search of number 3 and got it through yet another excellent goal. Again big David Lodola was the creator as he made a run down the left hand side before crossing brilliantly for Jimmy Keoghane to expertly head home at the back post. 

Although it was a fine finish to an equally fine move, Lodola seemed to be more excited by his contribution, and his discovery that his less preferred left foot does in fact work, by exclaiming "That was my left foot!" when referring to his cross.

Belvo were now purring and 3 turned into 4 with arguably the goal of the game. Collecting the ball wide on the left, Steven Traynor skipped by a number of challenges, before unleashing an unstoppable strike into the top corner. It was particularly pleasing for Traynor, who has been enduring a bit of a goal drought of late, (2 years!).

Belvo continued to create chances with their free flowing football, with substitute Derek "Gunshot" Kierans even fancying his chances of a goal, although his strike was blocked down. In the end it was an impressive victory for Belvo, with a clean sheet capping off a fine performance all round.

Belvo: Sexton; Dowling-Byrne (Kierans), Finn, Harney, Broughall; Keoghane, Corry, Traynor; Burke, Lodola, O'Connor (Kerr).

Report - Darragh O'Reilly

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Sunday 18th March 2007

SFAI Under 15 Evans Cup ( last 16 )

Shamrock Rovers  1 - 3  Belvedere F.C.

The conditions at Carolan Park on Sunday were far from ideal for this SFAI Under 15 Evans Cup tie. The playing surface certainly didn't favour the visitors, while the driving rain, sleet, snow, and gusting winds made things very difficult for both sides. 

Belvo started with the same team as last week, which meant Chris Kerr and Derek Kierans had to make do with a place on the bench, joined by Dean Gaynor, just returning from two weeks out injured with a groin problem.

The visitors started well and got the goal their patient play deserved fifteen minutes into the game. Rob Dowling-Byrne's quick throw-in found the impressive Jimmy Keohane on the back line, and he turned and played an in-swinging cross which deceived the Rovers 'keeper and finished in the far bottom corner of the net, to make it one nil to Belvo.

Dowling-Byrne, who has had previous groin trouble this season, limped off minutes later with the same injury and was replaced by Derek Kierans who slotted into midfield, while Stephen Traynor reverted to the right-back position. 

As the snow began to fall, Belvo started to get a foot-hold on the game, with the very capable centre backs Garvan Broughall and Neill Harney more than able to deal with anything thrown at them, Jason Finn and Traynor at full back not under great pressure, while Corry, Keohane and Kierans tried their best to move the ball on the long grass.

Just before the break Belvo doubled their lead, and a very good goal it was. Again good build-up play, Burke dummied Traynor's pass which found Kierans feet, he shot towards goal and David Lodola, who had a very good game leading the line, finished from three yards out, after the goalkeeper had failed to hold onto the ball.

Belvo team - Henry, Dowling-Byrne ( Kierans, 20), Finn, Broughall, Harney, Keohane ( Kerr, 55), Corry (c), Traynor, Burke, O'Connor, Lodola ( Gaynor,
65)

Report - Jamie Moore

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Sunday 11th March 2007

DDSL Under 15 Conway Cup ( 1/4 Final )

Saint Francis F.C.  1 - 2   Belvedere F.C.

Belvedere arrived to a wet and windy Baldonnel hoping to improve on the 2-2 draw in the league game earlier in the season, this time however with a place in the last four of the Conway Cup at stake. Defender Rob Dowling-Byrne passed a fitness test on his groin before the game, and started right-back.

Belvo made the better start to the game and were ahead inside three minutes. Stephen Traynor played a nice ball through to Gary Burke, but he was taken down in the box. The ever dependable Jimmy Keohane stepped up to confidently slot home from twelve yards, off the post and in to the goalkeeper's right.

The visitors could have doubled their lead in the ninth minute. Dowling-Byrne's cross found an unmarked Traynor but, his powerful half volley was wonderfully saved by the 'keeper. Saint Francis could have leveled five minutes later, but Danny Henry made a great save with his foot, after some sloppy Belvo play in midfield.

In the 17th minute, Belvo put a nice move together and should have doubled their lead. David Lodola's knock-down found Burke, he fed David O'Connor and his good chest control was followed by a good shot from six yards, another very good save. O'Connor provided for Burke a minute later, but he shot wide of the near post.

Burke, who caused the home defence a lot of problems, and was probably Belvo's best player, went on a good run on 27 minutes. His cross looked like it would find O'Connor for a tap-in but the defender did well to get back and slice the ball over the bar. The Francis number 11 hit a free-kick straight into the wall a minute later.

Belvo scored a second goal towards the end of the half. Corry's inviting cross was met my Jason Finn and he powerfully headed into the top corner, to make it 2-0. Finn did well minutes later, as he played in Burke, but his low shot crashed off the post and wide. Burke found O'Connor who in turn found Lodola but his shot was saved, when he probably should have passed to a better placed team-mate.

As the half time whistle blew, Belvo were two-nil ahead, but really should have further ahead. In defence a few sloppy moments could have led to goals and Belvo would have to tighten up for the second half or risk a repeat of the 2-2 draw in the league earlier in the season, having been two ahead in that game as well.

After the break Burke layed off to Lodola who passed to O'Connor, but his deflected shot was saved. Six minutes later Neil Harney smashed a powerful free kick towards goal, but the brave  Saint Francis four man wall did well to block it. Traynor then shot over the crossbar on 50 minutes.

Five minutes later Corry had the chance to score. Lodola and Burke combined to find the skipper but the ball bobbled just before he shot and it flew over. On 56 Corry played a ball over-the-top to Lodola, he broke through but with O'Connor waiting for a tap-in at the far post, Lodola opted to shoot
and he blazed wide.

O'Connor played a great ball in from the left two minutes later, but Lodola mis-read the flight of the ball, and scuffed the chance. Burke then had a shot saved from the edge of the box on 61, and it looked like Belvo were going to get a third goal, but they had to be aware of a goal on the break at the far end.

Belvo then made a change, Chris Kerr replaced O'Connor. In the 65th minute the home side had a good chance. The number 10 broke past Broughall but shot wide of the far post. Lodola knocked the ball down nicely for Keohane soon afterwards, but the impressive 'keeper made a great save down to his left.

Dowling-Byrne almost created a goal nine minutes from the end, but Lodola unfortunately missed. A minute later it was 2-1, and could lightening  strike twice??  The home striker latched onto a long ball over the top but 'keeper Henry came out and was stranded in no-mans-land, as the striker chipped in, with the help of the far post.

Belvo then made a substitution, Derek Kierans replaced Traynor. Keohane, Corry and Lodola worked a nice inter-charge of play which ended with the latter having his shot well saved by the goalkeeper. Keohane shot wide from a free-kick five minutes from time. 

Soon afterwards the final whistle blew and Belvo were through to the semi-finals of the cup. 

Belvo team - Henry, Dowling-Byrne, Finn, Broughall, Harney, Keohane, Corry (c), Traynor ( Kierans, 75), Burke, O'Connor ( Kerr, 60), Lodola

Report - Jamie Moore

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Sunday 25th February 2007

DDSL Under 15 Premier League

Lourdes Celtic  4 - 4   Belvedere F.C.

When Belvedere arrived to a sunny but chilly Sundrive Park on Sunday, nobody could have imagined the eight goal thriller that was in store. Having defeated Lourdes 2-0 at home earlier in the season and on the back of a good win over Home Farm in the SFAI cup in their last game, Belvo were hoping for another win to move closer to the top of the table.

Derek Kierans and David O'Connor came into the team, in place of Jimmy Keohane and Danny Joyce. After less then a minute Belvo had their first chance, but the goalkeeper made a good save from David Lodola. 

Belvo, having started well took the lead in the fourth minute. Captain Paul Corry's floated cross was spilled by the Lourdes goalkeeper and centre-back Neil Harney cleverly back-heeled the ball home from eight yards. 

Lourdes had a chance five minutes later, but the striker shot wide. Gary Burke had an excellent opportunity to double Belvo's lead a few minutes later when he went one-on-one after a long-ball from 'keeper Danny Henry, but he shot straight at the goalkeeper. 

Burke and Lodola both tested the 'keeper in the 33rd minute, but on both occasions the 'keeper made good saves. Henry had to make a good save of his own in the last minute of the half, as they broke the offside trap, he made himself big and saved well from the striker. Belvo led 3-2 at half-time but the game was far from over.

Belvo's defending didn't improve too much just after the restart. After just 11 seconds, direct from tip-off they went through but shot wide, a major
let-off. Two minutes later Belvo were caught too high up the pitch, a simple ball over-the-top found their pacy striker and he raced through to finish, although there was a major shout for offside.

Lourdes scored again three minutes later, this just six minutes into the second half to make it 4-3, the game had been turned on its head. On 47 minutes Kierans played in O'Connor but his shot was saved, and from that corner Jason Finn headed wide. 

Dean Gaynor replaced O'Connor on 51 minutes to add some pace to the attack. Belvo made another change six minutes later, Chris Kerr replaced a tired Stephen Traynor. Eight minutes from time Belvo, having battled well, scored a deserved equaliser. 

Corry's in-swinging corner kick was met by a cluster of bodies in the box, and Broughall claimed the final touch to send the ball into the top corner of the net ( the dubious goals panel will have to give their verdict on that one ). 

Sunday 11th February 2007

SFAI Under 15 Evans Cup

Belvedere F.C.  3 - 1  Home Farm

Captain Paul Corry only passed a fitness test on his injured ankle before kick-off so he took his place in the centre of midfield alongside Stephen Traynor and Danny Joyce, who came into the team for Derek Kierans. 

Despite being unwell all week with a bad cough, Jimmy Keohane started on the right, one of three up-front. Considering the heavy over-night rain the pitch in Glasnevin was in quite good condition as Belvedere made the better start.

Corry had his first effort after less then a minute, he shot over the crossbar from 30 yards. Belvedere goalkeeper Danny Henry was called into action early on, as he saved from the Home Farm striker following some good play by the away team. 

In the 16th minute Home Farm's Lee Dixon went through, but Henry raced off his line to smother the ball. Belvo full-back Robert Dowling-Byrne and front man Gary Burke worked a nice one-two down the right-hand side, which ended with Burke having his first shot blocked, while he sliced wide on the second attempt. 

Dowling-Byrne, Keohane and David Lodola combined to create a half-chance for Stephen Traynor, his powerful shot from outside the area went just over the bar. Corry played a nice ball to Keohane just three minutes later, but the defender got back to make an excellent block as the Kilkenny man bore down on goal.

David Lodola showed his skill and strength in the 30th minute, when his control and solo run led to a volley, but it was easily saved by the 'keeper. Burke's trickery created a real chance for Belvo five minutes before the break, he was fouled a yard outside the box but Corry's free-kick was well tipped over by the big goalkeeper. 

Just before the break a great cross by Corry eluded everyone in the box and the danger cleared by the Home Farm defence. At half time it was scoreless although Belvo had the better of the play in the opening 40 minutes.

Five minutes into the second half Traynor limped off with a groin injury, and was replaced by Dean Gaynor on the right up-front, while Keohane dropped back into the middle. 

Central defenders Garvan Broughall and Neil Harney remained solid throughout and the latter created a great chance for Burke in the 47th minute, but his right-footed drive was well saved.

Nine minutes later Belvo took a deserved lead following a mis-hit clearance by the Home Farm 'keeper which was intercepted by Burke who then raced clear into the box, with an open goal in front of him, before being hacked down from behind by the last defender. 

The referee blew for a penalty kick and, surprisingly only showed a yellow card to the offending player. Keohane expertly dispatched the spot-kick to the back of the net to put his side one-nil ahead.

In the 74th minute Home Farm won a free kick on their right wing, and from the the resulting cross into the box the ball hit Lodola's arm resulting in a penalty kick. Home Farm's Lee Dixon scored from the spot kick to level the match.

However, just as it looked like extra time was on the cards Belvo responded in style. Burke collected the ball on the left and jigged across the box past four defenders before skillfully firing his shot beyond the advancing goalkeeper, to restore Belvo's lead. 

Within minutes, Gaynor scored a brilliant third goal, to put the result beyond doubt, as his pace and skill took him past the Home Farm defence before he calmly converted from eight yards. 

The referee finally blew for full time, and Belvedere had got their just rewards for a very good team performance. Keohane who, somehow got through the full the game, was probably the man-of-the-match, but all the Belvo team did very well. 

Having come through two very tough fixtures against DDSL Premier opponents to reach the last 16 of the National SFAI Evans Cup, Belvo will be hoping to maintain their winning form in the next round.

Belvo team - Henry, Dowling-Byrne, Harney, Broughall, Finn, Traynor (Gaynor, 46), Corry (c), Joyce, Keohane, Burke, Lodola Subs: O'Connor, Kierans, Kerr, Gaynor

Report - Jamie Moore

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Sunday 28th January 2007

DDSL Under 15 Premier League

Belvedere F.C.  1 - 1   Saint Kevin's Boys

With no matches since mid-Novermber, Belvedere were glad to get back on the pitch on Sunday, to try to get their push up the table back on track. A bumpy but dry Fairview Park was the venue for the DDSL Under 15 league game against St. Kevin's Boys. 

SFAI Under 15 Evans Cup

Cherry Orchard  1 - 2  Belvedere F.C.

A place in the draw for last 32 of the SFAI Evans Cup awaits Belvedere following their great away win over rivals Cherry Orchard at The Lawn on Sunday. It was sweet revenge for this Belvo team who were very disappointed to lose 4-0 at the same venue in the league two weeks ago. 

Belvedere made two changes from the last game, a welcome return from injury for Captain Paul Corry in midfield and Rob Dowling-Byrne at right back, as David O'Connor dropped to the bench.

Belvo started the game the better of the two sides, on a very difficult surface, David Lodola having the first effort after three minutes, he sliced his shot wide from 18 yards. 

Stephen Traynor, playing very well, curled in an inviting cross just a minute later, but Lodola headed just wide, when he really should have scored. 

Corry had his first shot in the sixth minute, having won a free-kick 35 yards out from goal, but he duly found the building site behind the goal. A minute later Corry shot over from play. Like in the last match, Belvo dominated the play as the half drew on, but failed to convert plenty of scoring chances.   

Derek Kierans was first to test the home goalkeeper, following nice link-up play between Dowling-Byrne and Traynor led to the latter sliding a pass, but his shot was well saved. 

However less then 60 seconds later, Belvo took a well deserved lead when midfielder Jimmy Keohane scored a brilliant goal with a cracking shot from 25 yards, which flew into the net past the hapless 'keeper.

In the 25th minute Belvedere goalkeeper Danny Henry, who was man of the match, was called on to make a great one on one save to deny the Cherry Orchard striker. 

The half-time whistle blew, Belvedere were dominating the play and deservedly led one-nil. Nine minutes after the restart Belvo should have doubled their lead when Dowling-Byrne's cross to the back post found Lodola, put he headed wide under pressure. 

Corry won a great tackle in midfield in the 56th minute, and then played Traynor in, he opened out his body wonderfully but curled his shot just over from just outside the box. 

Stephen Traynor who had "ran his heart out" in the match was replaced by the dependable O'Connor, who's first action was to win a corner. Corry whipped in a brilliant left-footed cross which Broughall headed home from four yards out, to spark wild celebrations on the Belvedere side-line.

Shortly afterwards the referee blew his whistle for full time as Belvedere recorded a deserved SFAI Evans Cup win. This was a great team performance by Belvedere, with particular mentions for defenders Neil Harney and Jason Finn, while Keohane and Corry were also commanding in mid-field.

Belvo team - Henry, Dowling-Byrne, Finn, Harney, Broughall, Keohane, Corry (c), Traynor ( O'Connor, 68), Kierans, Burke, Lodola.

Report - Jamie Moore

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Sunday 3th November 2006

DDSL Under 15 Premier League

Cherry Orchard  4 - 0  Belvedere F.C.

Captain Paul Corry returned from a weeks trial at Crewe with an injured thigh, so he dropped out of the team. Defender Rob Dowling-Byrne was still not fully fit after a groin injury while midfielder Chris Kerr was away on holidays so Belvo were down to the bare bones for this one.

Dean Gaynor came in for Corry while David O'Connor also started in midfield, Belvo started the game at a quick pace and Gary Burke had the games first effort, his shot was saved.

Stephen Traynor, Garvan Broughall and Jimmy Keohane worked a nice interchange of play down the right-wing which ended with a cross into the box, striker David Lodola headed off the post. The home side had their first shot in the sevneth minute, but goalkeeper Danny Henry made a easy save.

After the first quarter hour of the match, Belvo were playing some really good one and two touch passing but that crucial goal eluded them. The two Davids, O'Connor and Lodola missed half chances within a minute of each other.

Report - Jamie Moore

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Sunday 29th October 2006

DDSL Under 15 Premier League

Belvedere F.C. 3 - 1  Leixlip United

Three wins, two defeats and a draw from their first six league games Belvedere were hoping to add to their tally of 10 points as they faced Leixlip United at Glasnevin on Sunday. Captain Paul Corry and Neil Harney both returned to the starting line up following school trips abroad.

Without mid-fielder Chris Kerr who was away on holidays and the injured defender Rob Dowling-Byrne, Belvo called under 14 player Danny Joyce into the team at right-back. Also, back from injury Dean Gaynor started on the bench along with David O'Connor.

Belvo began badly and gave Leixlip the first of many chances after just a minute. Joyce failed to get distance on his header and their striker went through. A combination of goalkeeper Danny Henry and left-back Jason Finn prevented a goal. Three minutes later the visitors had their second chance but the striker's shot from 18 yards was easily saved by Henry. 

On 11 minutes good link up play between Stephen Traynor, Derek Kierans and Gary Burke down the left wing ended with the latter shooting with his left foot, but it was easily saved by the Leixlip 'keeper.

Henry was called into action again minutes later when he had to deny the opposition again. On 22 minutes, against the run of play, Belvo took the lead. Jmmy Keohane curled in a corner which was not properly cleared and Burke as on hand to smash the ball into the top corner from 16 yards out.

Two minutes after taking the lead Belvo fell asleep at the back again and Belvo 'keeper Henry had to race from his line. He clattered into the striker, but the referee, who was less then impressive, gave a free kick to Belvo. Traynor had a shot in the 28th minute, but it was easily saved by the 'keeper. 

David Lodola ran across the flight of the shot and the slightest of flicks would have guided the ball home. In the 31st minute the visitors were presented with yet another opportunity, Joyce's interception only deflected the ball to the Leixlip striker, but 'keeper Henry made a very good one on one save. 

Four minutes later, Leixlip hit the post. A shot from the edge of the box was deflected onto the upright by defender Garvan Broughall. In truth, Leixlip deserved an equaliser. Just before the break they created another chance, but the midfielder shot over the crossbar.

At half-time, Belvo despite playing poorly, and giving the opposition a lot of chances, were 1-0 ahead. The second half started a little bit better for Belvo, Corry's free-kick was sliced over the crossbar by a defender, Lodola headed the resulting corner kick wide. 

On 42 minutes Leixlip equalised when their number 10 finished well after a lucky ball over the Belvedere defence. Traynor took a quick free-kick a minute later to Burke's feet but his shot from a tight angle was saved. 

Belvo then made a telling double substitution after 47 minutes, as David O'Connor came onto the left side of midfield for Kierans, while Traynor was replaced by Dean Gaynor.

In the 50th minute Lodola had a half chance. His turn and quick shot was well saved. Substitute Gaynor went a good run down the right two minutes later and his deep cross went inches over the cross bar. 

On 55 minutes the referee awarded Belvo a penalty when Burke was taken down in the box. Corry didn't care about Leixlip's protests to the ref as he cooly slotted the ball into the bottom left corner of the net to make it 2-1.

Ten minutes later Gaynor did well but his shot was turned away for a corner. Corry's cross from that corner found an unmarked Jason Finn inside the six yard area, but he headed over the bar. Henry was called into action on the 67th minute to palm away a long range shot from the Leixlip goal scorer. 

Two minutes later Belvo went 3-1 ahead. Henry's goal-kick was flicked on by Lodola to Burke, and his wonderfully weighted pass found the impressive Gaynor who raced through, beat three defenders, rounded the 'keeper and tapped into an empty net, for a great team goal. 

That made the result safe, and while they were happy at the final whistle to take the three points with a 3-1 win, Belvo will nonetheless be disappointed with their overall performance on the day.

Belvo team - Henry, Joyce, Finn, Broughall, Harney, Keohane, Corry (c), Traynor ( Gaynor, 47), Burke, Kierans ( O'Connor, 47), Lodola.

Report - Jamie Moore

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Sunday 15th October 2006

Belvedere arrived at the AUL Complex on Sunday looking to put their recent form of two defeats behind them. With Captain Paul Corry still away on a school trip abroad, and Dean Gaynor and Rob Dowling-Byrne both out with injuries, Belvo were down to the bare eleven.

On the slippy surface Belvedere made the better start, passing the ball around in midfield. Garvan Broughall chipped in a nice cross after six minutes, but that was caught by the goalkeeper. 

The home side's physical approach became apparent early on when their number two was yellow carded for a studded tackle on David Lodola.

On 13 minutes, Belvo had a good chance but Burke shot over from inside the box. Two minutes later, Saint Kevin's had their first chance. Aaron Harding smashed a left-footed shot towards the Belvo goal, only for Danny Henry to make a great diving save. Their number nine then hit the rebound wide.

On 16 minutes Broughall had a chance, but his header from a Jimmy Keohane cross was saved. Minutes later Keohane broke through into the penalty area and was brought down by the defender, but the referee waved play on. Belvedere, despite not scoring were in total control of the game.

Six minutes later Belvedere took a well deserved lead. Their defender tried to take a quick free-kick but Burke intercepted,......his first shot was well saved but he made no mistake with the rebound as he smashed home from a tight angle.

Man of the Match Traynor made a great run down the right and passed to Burke, but his weak shot was easily saved. Belvo were given a wake-up call soon afterwards as the home striker flashed a shot just past the far post.

On 29 minutes Broughall swung in a lovely cross which was volleyed towards goal by Neil Harney, but unfortunately it was headed off the line. Harding whipped-in a low cross for the hosts after 31 minutes but Belvedere centre half Jason Finn did just enough to put the attacker off.

Minutes later Belvo doubled their lead. Harney played a ball deep into the box and Lodola nipped in ahead of the advancing goalkeeper to flick the ball into the roof of the net for a great goal.

Just before half-time, Kerr had a one-on-one chance but the home 'keeper made a good save. At half-time Belvo were dominating the game and fully deserved their lead. 

One of Saint Kevin's two half time substitutes was yellow carded within  minutes of the re-start for a bad late challenge on 'keeper Danny Henry. That didn't matter too much as "the boys in blue" scored another goal after 48 minutes.

Kerr's shot from the edge of the box was saved but somehow the goalie fumbled the ball over the line under pressure from Keohane. The dubious goals panel will have to decide on who scored!!!

The same Saint Kevin's half time sub committed another bad foul and was lucky not to be sent off. On 56 minutes everyone in attendance witnessed what could easily be the goal of the season.

A long ball up the pitch was brilliantly taken on the chest by Lodola, who quickly turned and volleyed a thunderbolt of a shot into the top corner from
25 yards,..... what a goal it was!!!.

Sixty seconds later it was five. Broughall's shot from the edge of the box took a deflection over the goalkeeper and into the net, that one was definitely Broughall's goal.

Kerr had a shot tipped over the crossbar minutes later by the goalkeeper. Belvo then made a change, Harney, who had taken a knock was replaced by under 14 player Paul Graydon.

The home side got a goal back in the 61st minute. The referee awarded a free-kick. While Belvo were setting up the wall Kevin's took a quick one and scored. Another Kevin's player was yellow-carded soon afterwards for a bad foul.

It was almost 5-2 after 69 minutes. Henry's attempted chip was cut-out but he made a great recovery save with his feet. Lodola going for his hat-trick saw his long range effort saved near the end. 

Keohane had Belvo's last chace, but his shot was saved. A great Belvedere performance, to bounce back from last weekend's disappointment. 

A mention for wide left player David O'Connor who lost one of his contact lenses following a heavy tackle, mid-way through the first half, but despite his discomfort he didn't let it effect his play for the rest of the match. 

The whole Belvedere team from 1-11 were outstanding and with Corry, Dowling-Byrne and Gaynor hopefully available again next weekend, the season starts here. 

Belvo team - Henry, Traynor (c), Harney ( Graydon, 60), Finn, Kierans, Keohane, Broughall, Kerr, Burke, O'Connor, Lodola.

Report - Jamie Moore 

Following an undeserved defeat last week, Belvedere arrived to a wet Mobhi Road on Sunday hoping for all three points against local rivals Home Farm. Belvo were forced to make two changes from last weekend's game, Stephen Relihan coming in for captain Paul Corry who was away, while under 14 goalkeeper Craig Sexton took over in goal from the suspended Danny Henry. 

As like last weekend Belvedere were behind after less then five minutes. A long ball over-the-top caused the defence problems, Sexton came but unfortunately let the ball squirm from his grasp, between his legs and the Home Farm centre forward had a tap in from eight yards.

Despite the disappointment of the early goal Belvo, without creating any real chances, began to get a grip on the game and were on top for the next few minutes. Home Farm's number 6 was yellow carded for a late tackle in midfield, that on 19 minutes. 

Two minutes later Belvo had a chance. Jimmy Keohane swung in a left footed cross but defender Garvan Broughall's header was straight at the goalkeeper. On 22 minutes Home Farm doubled their lead, and the goal came from a Belvedere attack. 

The home side booted a hopeful ball up the pitch, only to catch the defence holding a very high line, Sexton came out to close the angle and the Home Farm player just rolled the ball across the box for a tap in for his team-mate. 

Just before the half hour mark Belvo were forced to make a substitution, Gary Burke came on for Dean Gaynor who retired with a groin injury.

Midfielder Stephen Relihan had an effort on 31 minutes, but he sliced his effort wide. Four minutes before half-time Belvo gave themselves hope with a well taken set piece. Stephen Traynor was fouled and Keahane's in-swinging cross was wonderfully flicked into the far corner of the net by defender Jason Finn.

Two minutes later Belvo scored again to make it 2-2, in an unbelievable turn-around. Relihan played a lovely ball in behind the defence for Keohane to run on-to, he crossed for Derek Kierans who smashed home from 6 yards to send his side in level at the break.

David Lodola had his first effort four minutes after half time, but his shot was saved. Two minutes later Belvedere gave away another very poor goal. Another long ball, the striker ran through and chipped the advancing 'keeper to make it 3-2. 

Sexton made up for his previous error minutes later, he made an amazing save to deny the Home Farm player from four yards out, he dived and clawed  the ball away from on the goal-line, Finn completed the clearance.

Lodola showed his bravery soon afterwards, he took a kick to the head inside the box but Belvo wasted the indirect free-kick. On 65 minutes Burke latched on-to Broughall's flick-on, but he lashed over the crossbar. 

Belvo then made a substitution, David O'Connor came on for Stephen Relihan as  Belvo reverted to a 3-4-3 formation. On 76 minutes Home Farm's number 6 was giving his marching orders by the referee, when his late tackle on Stephen Traynor earned him a second yellow card.

The final whistle blew four minutes later and Belvedere will be very disappointed with their poor performance following last weekends good
showing against Crumlin. Belvo will have to pick themselves and dust themselves for next weekends game.

Belvo team - Sexton, Dowling-Byrne, Finn, Broughall, Harney, Keohane, Relihan ( O'Connor, 65), Traynor (c), Gaynor ( Burke, 29), Kierans, Lodola. Subs- Burke, O'Connor, Kerr.

Report - Jamie Moore

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Two wins and a draw from their first three league games, Belvedere were in confident mood as they welcomed last seasons league winners Crumlin United. Belvo kept the same starting eleven that convincingly beat Lourdes Celtic 2-0 last weekend. 

However, Belvo's task certainly wasn't helped early on when they conceded a soft goal after less than 90 seconds, following a poorly headed clearance across the box which allowed the Crumlin winger in to shoot through goalkeeper Danny Henry's legs and into the net.

Despite this early set back, Belvo should have equalised less then two minutes later, when following some excellent controlled football striker David Lodola played in Derek Kierans, but unfortunately he sliced his shot wide from six yards when a goal looked certain. 

Belvo continued to pressurise the Crumlin defence, and when Captain Paul Corry was fouled just outside the box, Neil Harney shot just wide with the free-kick. Jimmy Keohane then saw his 25-yard effort saved by the 'keeper, that after seven minutes.

Corry himself almost equalised after 11 minutes but his left-footed curling effort went just wide of the post, with the goalkeeper sprawling across goal trying to cover it. In the lashing rain Belvedere were well on top and controlling the play. 

Kierans, Lodola and Dean Gaynor linked up well down the left, with the latter heading just wide of the target. The Crumlin goalkeeper was forced to make a wonderful save on 22 minutes, to deny Corry's powerful low drive from 25 yards which was clawed away down to the 'keepers right.

A minute later, following a foul on Keohane, Corry's free kick went just over the crossbar. Neil Harney then headed over the bar from a well delivered Keohane corner kick. Lodola also headed wide minutes later as Belvo pressed hard in search of the elusive equaliser before the half time whistle.

Crumlin remained dangerous on the break and following a slip by Harney in the wet conditions, 'keeper Henry made a great one-on-one save just to deny the number 11. 

The turning point in the match came in the 49th minute with a dreadful refereeing decision. Belvo 'keeper Henry raced from his line to cleanly win a through ball with a great challenge on the edge of the box, but the referee amazingly awarded a free kick and sent off the Belvo number one. 

With no sub goalkeeper to call on, Harney went in goal for the remaining 31 minutes.  To make matters worse the free kick by Crumlin was smashed into the top corner to make it 2-0. Belvo correctly felt very hard done by.

Despite having only 10 men, Belvo continued to play the better football, while Crumlin were overly physical at times in their efforts to win back possession. Disappointingly, the referee failed to caution this persistent fouling until it was too late. 

Indeed, Garvan Broughall went on a great run from the back before he was bundled to the ground by the Crumlin defender. However, the referee somehow then yellow carded Broughall when he was in fact fouled.

The referee then missed a blatant offside minutes later, allowing the Crumlin striker through on goal, but Harney did well to tip the ball over the bar. 

At the final whistle, while Belvedere had no points to show for their efforts, they knew that they played the better football on the day, even with ten men for over 30 minutes of the match. 

Belvo team - Henry, Dowling-Byrne, Finn, Harney, Broughall, Traynor, Corry (c), Keohane, Kierans, Gaynor ( Burke, 60), Lodola. Subs - Relihan, O'Connor, Kerr, Burke.

Report - Jamie Moore

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Jimmy Keohane bagged a brace as Belvedere bounced back in style from last weeks disappointing draw with Saint Francis. A first half header and a right footed finish in the second made it 3 goals in 3 starts for new signing Keohane, who again shone in midfield, in what was a highly impressive performance by the home side.

The win was a welcome return to form for the Blues after squandering a two goal lead in their last league outing. The all round performance was also much improved on last time out and will fill the squad with confidence for the future.

Belvedere's first goal was a back post header after the visitors had failed to properly clear their lines, and Keohane out-leaped the Lourdes' defence to head home from 5 yards out.

This lead was no more than Belvo deserved as they had dominated from the start of the match, competing for every ball against a physically strong Lourdes side. 

Captain Paul Corry, once again produced a polished performance laced with skill and style, as Belvo stretched their opponents with fine possession football. 

David Lodola, Gaynor and Keohane again went close for the home side in the first half before the latter eventually broke Lourdes' stubborn resistance.

In fact Belvo could have scored earlier as Dean Gaynor was denied by a combination of 'keeper and defender after a strong direct run opened up a gap. Having worked his way into the box, Gaynor was just crowded out at the last second when he was about to pull the trigger.

Gaynor and his strike partner Lodola both played their best games for Belvo to date, causing the Lourdes' defence endless problems, Gaynor with his pace and direct style, and Lodola with his ball control and physical presence. 

Overall it was a fine performance by each and every player, from Danny Henry, in goal, making a few telling clearances, up to the front three of Lodola, Gaynor and Derek Kierans, playing further forward than normal after the late withdrawal through injury of Chris Kerr in the warm up. 

A notable mention must also go to left back Jason Finn who was playing his first game since his return from a long standing groin injury. Finn was the late inclusion after Kerr's injury forced him to sit out. Kerr's injury was tough on the player as he himself was included after Gary Burke suffered an arm injury in last week's encounter.

It was a strange game at times, particularly in the first half as Lourdes conceded possession of the ball to Belvo at the back, the visitors preferring to close the ball once it got into midfield. What was particularly strange was that the away side continued this tactic for a period even after Belvo had taken the lead. 

Lourdes continued to knock the ball long, but this didn't trouble the Belvo defence very much, with both Neil Harney and Garvan Broughall commanding at centre half, while full backs Robert Dowling Byrne and Finn also remained solid. 

Belvo made two substitutions in the second half as both the injured Stephen Traynor and Jason Finn were replaced by Stephen Relihan and David O'Connor, both of whom slotted in well.   

The home team continued take the game to their opponents and Keohane almost added to his tally with another burst forward from midfield and he rattled the crossbar with a great shot. At the far end, 'keeper Danny Henry saved well down low at his near post to deny the Lourdes' striker. 

Belvo also had a stone wall penalty turned down after Gaynor raced onto a loose ball, beat the keeper to it before being caught. Somehow the referee didn't give it. Lourdes had a similar chance after Danny Henry seemed to catch their forward, although this particular incident was outside the area.

With 12 minutes left, Belvo sealed the win, after a neat move down the left resulted in Gaynor racing into the box before unselfishly squaring the ball for the unmarked Keohane to side foot home from 10 yards. 

The home side comfortably saw out the remainder of the game to record an important victory over a strong and capable Lourdes side.

Belvo team - Henry, Dowling-Byrne, Finn ( O'Connor, 55) , Harney, Broughall, Traynor ( Relihan, 50), Corry (c), Keohane, Gaynor, Lodola, Kierans.

Report by Darragh O'Reilly

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Following a good 4-1 opening win last weekend, Belvedere arrived at Baldonell on Sunday, expecting a tricky game against newcomers St. Francis. Captain Paul Corry returned to the team after recovering from a broken nose, he slotted into midfield, meaning Chris Kerr dropped to the bench.

It was the home side who created the first chance of the game, some hesitant defending from Rob Dowling-Byrne let in the opposition striker after only three minutes, but between defender Neil Harney and goalkeeper Danny Henry, the danger was averted. 

A few minutes later Dowling-Bynre whipped a great cross, which the goalkeeper just about clawed away from goal. On nine minutes Jimmy Keohane was fouled, Corry's free-kick however was easily saved.

Derek Kierans took a throw-in on 12 minutes to the feet on David Lodola, he turned quickly but shot over the crossbar. On 19 minutes Belvo were lucky not to go behind, the striekr beat the offside trap and raced through, Garvan Broughall and Harney did all they could to get back, but the striker shot over the bar. 

A major let-off for the visitors. Keohane made a good run on 21 minutes and passed to Corry but the bent his shot over. With the home side happy to sit in and defend, while attacking on the counter, Belvo found it hard to brake them down, Keohane again trying a long range effort,
which went over.

Dean Gaynor tested the 'keeper on 25 minutes, his half-volley was saved. On 32 St. Francis again got through, after the referee had missed an offside but Henry made an outstanding one-on-one save to keep the score at nil all. 

Ten minutes later Belvo finally got in behind the defence, but Gaynor's shot was easily saved. Corry and Harney also had efforts wide but at half time, despite at least 75% possession to Belvo, it was 0-0.

Gaynor had the ball in the net just after half time but he was ruled offside. That man from Ardee had another chance soon afterwards, his good control put him through but again the goalkeeper saved.

Belvo finally took the lead in the 46th minute. Lodola played the ball to Keohane on the corner of the box and his rocket of a shot arrowed into the far corner to give his side a deserved lead. Gaynor and Corry again tested the 'keeper, again he proved himself to be up to the challenge. 

On 51 minutes Francis could have leveled only for Henry to make another outstanding save, this time tipping the ball around the post, out for a corner.

On of the goalkeeper's only mistakes came in the 54th minute. His quick free-kick was intercepted by Gaynor on the edge of the box, but he made up for it, smothering the ball on the six-yard line. David O'Connor came on to replace Gaynor on 56 minutes, Gary Burke went up front with O'Connor slotting in on the left. The newly promoted side had another chance soon afterwards but their player shot over the bar.

Dowling-Byrne played a ball up the line after 59 minutes, Burke kept the  ball in play, cut inside and squared to Loola who tapped into an empty net to make it 2-0. Lodola nearly scored again soon after, he met O'Connor's cross with a diving header just wide. Belvo then made a change, Stephen Traynor was replaced by Stephen Relihan in midfield.

On 68 minutes it was 2-1, a cross into the box was smashed home, after poor Belvedere defending. Two minutes later it was 2-2, a free-kick floated into the box, the goalkeeper came and didn't claim, the ball was flicked on and from 2-0 up and coasting it was 2-2, with only ten minutes left to find a winner.

Lodola headed into the 'keeper's hands on 73 minutes, that from Burke's cross. Final score was 2-2, and it was certainly two points dropped by Belvo. To add injury to insult, Gary Burke had to go for an x-ray after the game and it looks like he has broken his arm and will be out injured for a few weeks.

Belvo team - Henry, Dowling-Bynre, Kierans, Harney, Broughall, Traynor ( Relihan, 60), Corry (c), Keohane, Burke, Gaynor ( O'Connor, 56), Lodola.
Report - Jamie Moore

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Having had no match last weekend, and after a successful Milk Cup tournament last month, Belvedere were eager to get their competitive season under way and arrived for this home match in confident mood ahead of the visit of newly promoted Shamrock Rovers.

With Captain Paul Corry recovering from a broken nose, mid-fielder Stephen Relihan nursing an injured toe and defender Jason Finn out with groin trouble Belvo handed debuts to Derek Kierans, Chris Kerr, David Lodola and Jimmy Keoghane.

After three minutes Belvo showed their intent, a nice ball through found Gary Burke but he saw his show cleared after from goal.

Rovers created a chance themselves two minutes later, goalkeeper Danny Henry raced from his line to clear a ball, but a Rover's player picked up the clearance and shot from 35 yards, just over the crossbar.

Kerr whipped in a great corner after 10 minutes which found an unmarked David Lodola, but he headed wide.

On 13 minutes Dean Gaynor broke through one-on-one after a lovely pass but the referee bizarrely gave Belvo a free kick when he should have played advantage, Belvo missed the free kick.

Two minutes later Rovers took the lead, a long ball over-the-top found their centre forward in acres of space and he cooly slotted home from 12 yards to put his side ahead.

Keoghane had a shot just a minute later fly just over the crossbar after good play between himself, Kierans and Burke.

Belvo had two efforts on 20 and 23 minutes, Lodola headed wide and then had his shot from 20 yards saved. Keoghane tried his luck again from distance shorty afterwards, again over the crossbar.

Burke turned well on the half hour mark but his weak shot was easily saved. Rovers worked a quick corner six minutes later but their midfielder shot over from the edge of the box.

On 38 Keoghane went one-on-one but the 'keeper made a great save and Stephen Traynor smashed the rebound over.

At half time, despite being on top, Belvedere trailed by one goal to nil. Traynor shot from distance two minutes after the restart, but it was easily saved.

Lodola's quick turn and shot was also comfortably saved on 45 minutes. A minute later Belvo made a substitution, David O'Connor came on to replace Kerr.

The away side had another great chance, Kierans was robbed of possession in his own box but luckily for him the striker shot wide when he should have scored.

Belvo got a deserved equaliser on 52 minutes. Keoghane found Dean Gaynor who turned in the box and shot past the Rovers ‘keeper, one all and with 28 minutes left, it was certainly "game on".

Three minutes later it was 2-1 to Belvedere, Lodola picked up where he left off at the Milk Cup as he slotted past the goalkeeper from 12 yards to put his side ahead.

On 62 minutes it was 3-1 and game over. Lodola won the ball back and found Keoghane who played in Gaynor to score his second goal of the game.

And six minutes later it was four. Keoghane with another assist, this time his corner was turned in by a Rovers' defender with Garvan Broughall and Gaynor lurking to score if the defender didn't.

Burke had a curling shot just wide of the far top corner on 71 minutes. Belvo ‘keeper Henry made two very good saves towards the end, the first a diving save the second a point-blank range block.

Minutes later the referee blew the final whistle. A good opening game Belvo, they will look forward to the season ahead.

Belvo team - Henry, Dowling-Byrne, Harney ( Dixon, 68), Broughall, Kierans, Traynor (c), Keoghane, Kerr ( D O' Connor, 55), Lodola, Gaynor (R O'Connor, 75), Burke.

Report - Jamie Moore