Under 16 Premier Match Reports 2007/08

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Sunday 25th May 2008

DDSL Under 16 Premier League 

Belvedere F.C.  1  -  0  Crumlin United

With memories of their recent unlucky 2 - 1 defeat to rivals Crumlin United in the Paul McGrath Cup final still fresh in their mind, Belvedere took to the field at Navan Road on Sunday  determined to take the three points necessary to secure the Premier League title. 

Although Crumlin still had a few fixtures left to play, the result of this match today would no doubt decide on the destiny of the league title. 

Belvedere started the game very well, controlling the midfield, but failed to create many clear-cut chances.    

The first chance of the game went to Crumlin. Jason Finn was dispossessed on the edge of his own box, but Garvan Broughall made an excellent tackle to clear the danger. 

Shortly afterwards, David Lodola forced a save from Connors in the visiting goal, when maybe Corry was in a better position. 

Gary Burke then made a great run up Belvo's left wing, ghosting past two Crumlin defenders before cracking a left-footed shot towards goal, unfortunately for Belvo it hit the post, and Stephen Traynor was unable to get to the rebound. 

Traynor almost scored a few minutes later when he was played in by Burke. He lobbed the 'keeper under pressure, but also beat the crossbar. Captain Paul Corry and Stephen Relihan kept the ball moving, Crumlin's midfield were finding it hard to cope with Belvo's passing and movement. 

Corry had the next chance soon afterwards, after a Neil Harney cross, but he took a touch, cut inside and his right-footed shot was saved. Two minutes later, Corry then fed Burke, he worked a nice one-two with Jimmy Keohane, but scuffed his shot. 

The best chance of the half came next. Burke went on another mazy run down the left, his inviting cross was met by the in-rushing Keohane but, Connors made a great save from point-blank range. 

An excellent first half display, but no goals to show for their efforts, the league title was still in Belvo's own hands. 

With a strong wind in their favour in the second half, Belvo' s passing wasn't as fluent as it was in the first period. This suited Crumlin, who won the majority of headers, and picked up most second balls. 

But Belvo kept up the pressure on the Crumlin defence, and were rewarded with a goal twelve minutes into the half. Corry's first corner was headed behind for a second one, this time his cross was inch perfect. It found the head of Broughall inside the six yard box and he couldn't miss. 

Crumlin pushed forward in search of an equaliser but they were met by a resolute Belvo defence. David Quirke, solid throughout in Belvo's goal made a good save midway through the half, racing from his line to avert the danger. 

At the other end, Burke could have got on the score sheet when he was played in by Corry, it looked like he would lob Connors, but he controlled and delayed and the chance was gone. Belvo defended very well in the last few minutes, clearing a number of Crumlin set pieces. 

Soon afterwards the referee blew the final whistle, and this was greeted with scenes of wild celebration by the players, coaches and supporters as Belvo claimed the league title.

Beating Crumlin in the All Ireland cup final last season, and pipping them to the league title this season, proving again that good passing football can bring success. 

This was a great team performance and while there were numerous contenders for Man of The Match, with Traynor, Harney and Broughall coming close, but Stephen Relihan gets the nomination. 

Belvo team: Quirke, Harney, O Connor, Finn, Broughall, Relihan (Callaghan, 75), Traynor, Corry, Burke, Keohane. Lodola. Subs not used: White, Turley, Eigbogba, Dowling Byrne, Sheehan, Sexton. Doherty.

Report - Jamie Moore                                                              

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Sunday 20th April 2008

DDSL Under 16 Paul McGrath Cup  Final 

Crumlin United   2  -  1  Belvedere F.C.  

Despite playing some of their best football so far this season and dominating the play for long periods of the match, Belvedere Under 16's were made to rue missed chances as they conceded two second half goals, against the run of play, as they lost 2 - 1 to Crumlin United in the Paul McGrath Cup Final at Whitehall on Sunday.

But it might have been different had Crumlin's goalkeeper not been the Man of the Match. Belvo began the game very well, keeping the ball well, moving Crumlin around and creating a number of good chances. 

The first of those came to Captain Paul Corry, his left footed shot was brilliantly tipped around the post by the diving 'keeper, the first of a number of impressive saves. Next to test the 'keeper was Jimmy Keohane, this time he got down to the opposite side to palm the ball to safety. 

David Lodola also saw his shot from inside the box saved. Three excellent saves, but he was keeping his best until last. A cross found the on-rushing Corry just outside the six yard box, he powerfully headed towards goal, but the 'keeper stayed big and made a very impressive reaction save from point blank range. 

Well on top, confidence was high at half time, as the sides went in scoreless. 

The one way traffic continued into the second half as Belvo remained in control of the match. Garvan Broughall and Jason Finn remained resolute at the back, with David Quirke mopping up anything that reached his box.

Dean Gaynor replaced Stephen Traynor midway through the second half, meaning Jimmy Keohane dropped back into midfield, and Gaynor took an advanced role just off Lodola as Belvo maintained the pressure on the opposition goal. Crumlin defended deeply, clearing long balls out of defence.   

It was one of these hopeful long balls into the box that was to prove Belvo's downfall. Quirke came out to claim but didn't get there in time, and the Crumlin player flicked the ball over his head and into the unguarded net. 1-0 Crumlin, Belvo had 15 minutes to find an equaliser. 

The only mistake the Crumlin 'keeper made in the match was when he dropped Corry's inviting free-kick. The ball squirmed from his grasp but no Belvo played had gambled, and the ball was eventually cleared. As Belvo threw more men forward, Corry was put under pressure in midfield, and surrounded by two opposition players, he lost possession. 

Crumlin got the ball wide, the cut-back found their striker in space. His first shot hit the post but he was quickest to the rebound to score from five yards. With less than ten minutes remaining, and totally against the run of play, Bevlo were two goals down. Now it was all out attack.

Brendan Turley came on for Stephen Relihan, pushing David O'Connor into an advanced left position. Broughall, Belvo's best player on the day, volleyed wide of the near post. Maybe going across goal would have been the better option, while Lodola also had a shot easily saved. 

As time wore on, Belvo won a free kick 25 yards out. Corry stepped up, his curling effort clipped the top of the wall and looped over the despairing goalkeeper and into the net. Would Belvo be able to create one last chance? The answer is yes. 

Keohane's floated free kick into the box evaded everyone, and went out for a goal kick. A minute later the final whistle sounded, sending the Crumlin players into celebrations. 

The DDSL Chairman Tommy Heffernan congratulated both teams on an exciting cup final and while he praised Belvo's excellent football on the day, he also stated "that goals win games", before presenting the winners with the cup.      

Although disappointed to lose the cup final, all is not lost for Belvedere this season.  They lead the DDSL Under 16 Premier league at present with one remaining league match to play against Crumlin United. 

Assuming Crumlin win their four remaining fixtures, the league title should be decided when both these sides meet again in the next few weeks and Belvo will be confident of success. 

Belvo team - Quirke, Harney ( Sheehan, 73), O Connor, Broughall, Finn, Relihan ( Turley, 65), Corry , Traynor ( Gaynor, 60), Burke, Keohane, Lodola. Subs not used: Callaghan, White, Eigbogba, Dowling Byrne.   

Report - Jamie Moore

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Sunday 13th April 2008

Home Farm F.C.   1  -  3  Belvedere F.C.

Gaynor was then replaced by Paul White up-front, while Jason Finn and David O Connor were lucky to escape injury after two physical tackles which were punished with yellow cards.
 
Farm almost got a goal back, Belvo gave the ball away in their own box, but luckily a deflection squirmed just wide of Quirke's post.
The goal that put the result beyond doubt followed, with Lodola getting his third goal in two games. He controlled Corry's corner very well, and finished from 16 yards into the corner.
 
Stephen Traynor then came on for Corry and announced his arrival with a crunching tackle. Michael Sheehan gave Harney a break at right-full, and Gareth Callaghan came on for Relihan.
 
So the three points were Belvos, now just one league game left and the cup final, two more wins is all they need.
 
Belvo team - Quirke, Harney ( Sheehan, 68), O'Connor, Finn, Broughall, Relihan ( Traynor, 65), Corry ( Callaghan, 68), Keohane, Burke, Gaynor ( White, 60), Lodola
 
Report - Jamie Moore

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Sunday 6th April 2008

DDSL Under 16 Paul McGrath Cup ( Semi- Final )

Belvedere F.C.   5  -  3  Lourdes Celtic ( A.E.T.)

 
We thought Liverpool's famous comeback in Istanbul would never be seen again, but The Boys in Blue re-wrote the history books at the Navan Road on Sunday, after being 3-0 down they beat Lourdes Celtic 5-3 after extra time.
 
With just seven minutes gone, Lourdes early pressure paid off. A short corner caught Belvo asleep, and the resulting cross was volleyed in at the far post.
 
The Lourdes goalkeeper made two excellent saves soon afterwards. The first tipping a fizzing Neill Harney shot over the crossbar. The second a similar stop, this time from Dean Gaynor.
 
Lourdes then went up the pitch and scored again, confusion between Brendan Turley and Jason Finn let the striker get in and finish. A few minutes later Finn suffered a bad shin injury in a tackle and was replaced by David O'Connor who slotted in a left back, while Turley moved to centre back alongside Garvan Groughall.
 
At half time Lourdes were two ahead, and Belvo's first half display left a lot to be desired, it looked like another league cup semi final exit. 
 
Just after the break two became three, and the final became even more of a distant hope. The Lourdes striker, in an offside position, dummied the ball for his partner who ran through and finished. The active/inactive offside debate continues.
 
It would take something special to get Belvo back into the game, and Harney provided such a springboard. His mazy run from right-back past a number of defenders led to the edge of the box, he shifted the ball to his left foot and smashed into the top corner. 3-1 game on.
 
Dean Gaynor was replaced by Paul White up front, Michael Sheehan came on for Turley, and Gaz Callaghan took Stephen Relihan's place in the middle. These changes injected some new life into the game.
 
As the match wore on, it looked like the comeback of all comebacks was beyond Belvo, but with nine minutes remaining they got a second. Gary Burke's chest control took him inside, and he finished well into the corner. 3-2 game most certainly on.
 
David Quirke in Belvo's goal was forced to make an excellent one-on-one save soon afterwards.
 
Added time was just about up when David Lodola scored his first goal since returning from a broken leg, slotting in from 16 yards, with two defenders on the line. That was after Callaghan's brilliant pass to Burke, and Burkey's cross. 3-3, extra time.
 
Belvo's momentum and much higher fitness levels meant there was only going to be one winner.
 
Captain Paul Corry put his side in the lead for the first time in the game. Harney's long throw was chested into Corry's path by White, and he fired home with the help of the crossbar, then went on a wild celebration, followed by his team-mates.
 
Belvo secured their place in a second cup final in as many years with six minutes remaining. A quick counter attack, White's pass found Burke, he went through and bent the ball into the far top corner.
 
You may remember a comeback from 1-0 and 2-1 down in the All Ireland final last summer, but Sunday's heroics top even that. Two league games to win the title, and a cup final to come, plenty to look forward to in the next few weeks.
 
Belvo team - Quirke, Harney, Turley ( Sheehan, 50), Finn ( O'Connor, 39), Broughall, Relihan ( Callaghan, 55), Keohane, Corry , Gaynor ( White, 55), Burke, Lodola ( Kole, 98).
 
Report - Jamie Moore

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Sunday 30th March 2008

DDSL Under 16 Premier League

Shelbourne F.C.   0  -  3  Belvedere F.C.

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Sunday 9th March 2008

DDSL Under 16 Premier League

Belvedere F.C.   3  -  0  Leixlip United

Belvedere beat Leixlip by three goals to nil in the under 16 Premier League at Baskin Lane on Sunday. The opening stages of the game were quite scrappy, with Captain Paul Corry, Stephen Relihan and Jimmy Keohane trying to get a hold of the ball in the middle of the bumpy pitch. 

Danny Henry, replacing the injured David Quirke in goal, only had a few back passes to deal with in the first half. Dean Gaynor had an excellent effort from 30 yards that hit off the crossbar after 20 minutes. Gaynor had a better chance soon afterwards, he was put through on goal with a a neat pass from Corry but rushed his shot wide. 

A few minutes later Keohane was played in on the end of a another lovely pass from Corry but, under pressure from the visiting defender, he too missed the target. Belvo's breakthrough came five minutes before the break, Paul White the goal scorer. And what a great goal it was !

Following a good build up of play from the back by Belvo, White received the ball 25 yards out from goal, turned and curled an excellent right-footed shot into the far top corner of the net. The injured White was replaced at half-time by Steve Traynor, he slotted into the middle allowing Keohane to push on more on the right in support of the attack. 

Belvo's second came shortly after the restart. Keohane's well delivered corner was flicked on by Garvan Broughall to his centre-back partner Jason Finn, who rose highest to head in from six yards out. Gaynor made it three nil a few minutes later, netting for his fourth game in succession. 

Broughall fed Keohane on the right, he then took on and beat his marker before delivering a pin point cross for Gaynor to powerfully head past the goalkeeper and into the net. Having been involved in the build-up in two of the goals, Broughall almost gave Leixlip a goal. 

His under-hit back pass was intercepted by the visiting striker, but Henry stayed alert and made an excellent one-on-one save, his only save in the match. Belvo then made changes as Gareth Callaghan replaced Relihan in midfield, Dave O'Connor came on for the tired Gary Burke, while Neil Harney was replaced by Michael Sheehan at right-back. 

Five minutes later Sylvester Kole came on up front in place of Gaynor who took a well deserved rest. Despite having a few more chances, the score remained 3 - 0 at the final whistle. Another clean sheet, three more goals, and all the squad got a game, a good day for Belvo as they continue to chase the league title. 

Belvo team - Henry, Harney ( Sheehan, 65), Turley, Broughall, Finn, Relihan ( Callaghan, 65), Corry , Keohane, Burke ( O Connor, 65), Gaynor ( Kole 72), White ( Traynor, 40). 

Report - Jamie Moore 

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Sunday 24th February 2008

DDSL Under 16 Paul McGrath Cup

Saint Pauls Artane   1  -  3  Belvedere F.C. 

Belvedere advanced to the last four of the Paul McGrath Cup with a 3-1 win over St Pauls Artane on Sunday at Harmonstown. However, things didn't go Belvo's way in the early stages. 

Captain Paul Corry was dispossessed under physical pressure just outside his own box. The opposition striker finished well into the far corner past David Quirke to give St Pauls a surprise lead. The small and compact pitch, along with the physical approach and constant time-wasting all worked in favour of the home side, but Belvo kept plugging away.

Corry, Stephen Relihan and Jimmy Keohane in midfield were well on top, trying to supply Gary Burke, Dean Gaynor and Paul White. Belvo limited St Pauls to no shots at goal, Garvan Broughall and Jason Finn easily managed the Artane sides lone front-man. But at the half time whistle, despite playing the better football, Belvo trailed one nil 

The home goalkeeper made a number of very good saves from Gaynor, Corry and Burke but, he could do nothing about the equaliser ten minutes after the restart. The visitors were fortunate to be awarded a penalty kick after the referee deemed that Jason Finn had been fouled in the St. Pauls box, but Belvo were not complaining. 

Up stepped Keohane to send the 'keeper the wrong way and make it one all. Now there was only going to be one winner. The home side were over zealous at times in the tackle and the referee had to produce the yellow card on a number of occasions

Belvo's patient approach paid off as Gaynor scored a brilliant second goal to put the visitors ahead. Burke latched onto a great cross-field ball down the left, his excellent control and cross found Gaynor, his lovely left-footed flick flew past the 'keeper and into the net.

Quirke was forced into a good one-on-one save just after Belvo went ahead. Apart from that Belvo's defence remained solid. Neil Harney won skill of the game from right back. He cheekily flicked the ball over the onrushing striker, then played a nice one-two with Keohane.

Following consistent pressure on the home defence, it was Keohane who got Belvo's third just before the end, scoring from two yards out after a goal mouth scramble. 

Belvo team - Quirke, Harney, Turley, Broughall, Finn, Relihan, Keohane, Corry , Burke, Gaynor, White.

Report- Jamie Moore

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Sunday 17th February 2008

DDSL Under 16 Premier League

Belvedere F.C.   1  -  1  Lourdes Celtic F.C.

It was a point a piece in the DDSL Under 16 Premier League at Fairview Park on Sunday, as Belvedere and Lourdes Celtic drew one all.
 
The bumpy pitch didn't help Belvo's passing game, and they took time to come to terms with surface. The first period had very few real opportunities for either side, neither goalkeeper had to make a save of any significance.
 
Belvo were much the better side as the half wore on, keeping the ball much better. That pressure paid off two minutes before the break as Belvo took the lead.
 
Following a good build up on the left Stephen Relihan's deep cross was brilliantly headed into the net by Dean Gaynor, his second goal in two games.
 
That should have set Belvo in motion, but a questionable penalty decision a minute later brought Lourdes back into the game.
 
Garvan Broughall was fouled in Belvo's box, but the referee said he was pulling the striker who was fouling him, the Lourdes centre forward blasted home to make it one one.
 
Belvo made one half time change, Dave O'Connor was replaced by Paul White.
 
In the second half Belvo continued to dictate the play, with Paul Corry, Jimmy Keohane and Relihan excellent in the middle of the pitch. 

Belvo's full backs Brendan Turley and Neil Harney supported the attack with some great overlapping runs, while delivering a number of dangerous crosses into the visitors' box.

Gary Burke, White and Gaynor combined to create a number of decent half chances but again, the vital finish was missing. 

At the other end of the pitch David Quirke in the Belvo goal had very little to do all day, helped by a solid back four who were well in command. 

Despite Belvo's control of the play and constant pressure in the closing stages, they proved unable to break the deadlock. 

While disappointed not to take all three points, with four league games left, the league title is still achievable for Belvo.
 
Belvo team - Quirke, Harney, Turley, Broughall, Finn, Keohane, Corry , Relihan, O'Connor ( White, 40), Burke, Gaynor
 
Report - Jamie Moore

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Sunday 10th February 2008

DDSL Under 16 Premier League

Saint Francis F.C.   0  -  3  Belvedere F.C.

Sunday 18th November 2007

DDSL Under 16 Premier League

Belvedere F.C.   3  -  1  Shelbourne F.C.

In excellent form so far this season, Belvedere welcomed Shelbourne on Sunday morning, looking for another three points in the league, before a cup game against Bohemians next weekend.

Belvo made one enforced change from last weekend s 3-0 win over St. Paul s Artane, with goalkeeper David Quirke suffering with an infection in his hand, Danny Henry slotted in between the sticks.

On the sublime surface Belvo got their game going early and were well in control. Steve Traynor was excellent in the opening minutes, finding himself time and space in midfield, trying to pick out killer passes.

In front of the back four, Stephen Relihan sprayed passes left and right with ease. Captain Paul Corry looked forward on every occasion, supplying Gary Burke and Paul White up top. 

The breakthrough came after just fourteen minutes, White scoring an excellent goal. His curling effort from the angle of the box looped into the top corner, leaving the goalkeeper stranded.

It was too not long afterwards, Jimmy Keohane's excellent run and stepover down the right hand side created space for himself, he smashed home off the inside of the post. On twenty-four minutes two became three. Whitey scrambled the ball into the net from a yard out, after good link up play to put the game beyond Shels.

By this stage it looked like Belvo could kick-on and get a few more. Henry was called into action on a couple of occasions to make two good saves, and an excellent claim from a cross. At half time Belvo led 3-0, totally in control.

The blues began the second period quite sloppily, giving away possession easily, and running with the ball when they should have been passing. Henry made another good save on 49, tipping over a powerful shot. Belvo cleared the resulting corner.

The Shel's goalkeeper made a good recovery, after conceding three early goals, to make a number of good stops in the second half. Burke was doing his best to create chances, his excellent control tormented the opposition defence.

White almost got his hat-trick fifteen minutes from the end, he was poised to head in but the defender got a crucial touch to put the ball away from the prowling White. Colm Smith then came on for White. Dave O'Connor came in for Burke, while Relihan was replaced by Gareth Callaghan.

Shels scored a consolation goal following a long ball up to their centre forward, who was well offside but, the ref waved play on. Henry then made a brilliant one on one save, but the other striker finished the rebound. 

An excellent first half by Belvo, three good goals, and Neil Harney, Jason Finn, Garvan Broughall and Brendan Turley were solid as usual at the back. Henry did very well behind them so Belvo will be happy overall, even though they could have kept a clean sheet and should have got more goals.

Belvo team - Henry, Harney, Turley, Broughall, Finn, Traynor, Relihan ( Callaghan, 72), Corry , Keohane, Burke ( O Connor, 65), White ( Smith, 68). Unused sub - Dixon

Report - Jamie Moore

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Sunday 11th November 2007

DDSL Under 16 Premier League

Saint Pauls Artane  0  -  3  Belvedere F.C.

After beating league rivals Crumlin 1-0 last weekend, Belvo arrived to McAuley Park on Sunday, hoping to for a win over St. Paul’s again, and stay at the top of the table. With David Lodola and Mick Sheehan still injured and the great performance last week, the team was unchanged.

The grass was high and could have done with a cutting, which made it difficult for Belvo to get their passing game going. Steve Traynor, Captain Paul Corry and Stephen Relihan tried to spray the ball around, with Paul White, Jimmy Keohane and Gary Burke doing their best to make things happen further forward.

It was Keohane who had Belvo’s first real chance, but the goalkeeper made a very good save. The resulting corner caused a scramble in the box, luckily for the home side it was eventually cleared.

Goalkeeper David Quirke was seldom troubled in the first half, but in fairness neither was his opposite number. Saint Pauls were over enthusiastic in the tackle at times, but the referee quashed any potential trouble early on with yellow cards. Belvo, howeve, were making things difficult for themselves, running with the ball when they should pass, getting dispossessed very easily.

At half time Belvo made a tactical change which worked brilliantly. The pacey Dean Gaynor replaced Steve Traynor, while Keohane reverted to midfield, with Gaynor going up-front alongside Paul White.

Belvo’s breakthrough came fifteen minutes after the restart. Garvan Broughall played a well weighted ball to Corry, his immaculate control and pass found White, he smashed his shot into the bottom corner from just outside the box, what a way to score your first goal for your new club. Surely Belvo would “kick-on” from here???

St. Pauls almost equalised moments later, Stuart Cooling nearly coming back to haunt his former club. His goal-bound volley was amazingly saved by a sprawling Qurike, his strong palms were enough to keep the powerful shot out. Belvo scored their second goal soon afterwards.

It was a goal that even Arsene Wenger would have been proud to see. Excellent passing and movement involving Burke, White, Keohane and the two midfielders found Gaynor in space down the right. His speed and trickery made some space and his cross found White, who easily headed home from six yards, getting his second.

Gaynor himself got a goal to put the result totally beyond doubt on 69 minutes. He finished well from inside the box after a good build-up play. The changes then followed. David O’Connor came on for Burke on 70 while five minutes later Gareth Callaghan, Colm Smith and Lee Dixon replaced Neil Harney, White and Relihan.

Broughall and Jason Finn were again excellent at the back, winning headers, making tackles and in Broughall’s case assisting in the first goal. Turley was assured as ever at left back, while Corry made some nice passes from central midfield. Burke was involved in two of the goals while the reliable Relihan did things simple, keeping the ball moving in midfield.

Three more points, three more goals, and an eighth clean sheet, two goals from the new centre forward, a good half-time change, and all players getting a run. A good day at the office for Belvo. A cup run would be very nice as well.

Belvo team - Quirke, Harney ( Callaghan, 75), Turley, Broughall, Finn, Traynor ( Gaynor, 40), Relihan ( Dixon, 75), Corry ©, Keohane, Burke ( O‘Connor, 70), White ( Smith, 75)

Report - Jamie Moore

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Sunday 4th November 2007

DDSL Under 16 Premier League

Crumlin United  0  -  1  Belvedere F.C.

Five months after the All Ireland final, the clash of the big two in the DDSL Under 16 Premier league took place at Pearse Park, with Belvedere hoping to repeat their heroics of the 3-2 final victory last season. 

Striker Paul White made his debut up-front, in an otherwise unchanged team from the last game. Happy that the game was on grass, not astro-turf as previously thought, Belvo began the game well, showing their intentions from the outset. 

Brendan Turley enjoyed space from left-back, and bombed forward at every opportunity, trying to create chances for the impressive White and Gary Burke up-front. Burke's excellent control and awareness was as good as ever, dropping into midfield on occasions to link up the play. 

Neil Harney continued to create space for Keohane down the right, sitting in and letting Steve Traynor and Keohane go and play. The brilliant Garvan Broughall and Jason Finn won everything in the air at centre back, not just clearing the danger, but making good passes from the back. As the half wore on Captain Paul Corry was getting more involved, leading by example, as Belvo controlled the play with some lovely passing movements. 

Belvo's deserved first goal came midway through the half. Burke used his excellent skill and trickery down the right to find some space, get the bye-line and slide across to the in-rushing Jimmy Keohane, who finished assured as ever with his right foot, across the goalkeeper and into the side of the net. 

The Kilkenny man almost scored again minutes later but the 'keeper made an excellent save. The second half began like the first, with Belvo playing controlled football, while the home side were more direct, seeking to find their front man with long balls. Broughall and especially Finn were in their element, winning headers, while Traynor's ability on the ball continued to create space for his colleagues.

David Quirke in goal was impressive coming off his line on numerous occasions to snuff out the danger, and making two great claims from good crosses. Stephen Relihan shielded the back-four well, again going about his job impressively. Belvo then had a fair shout for a penalty kick when Keohane was bundled over in the box after a great run, but the referee waved play on.

Burke took a nasty knock to his face and was replaced by David O'Connor, whose positive run almost made Belvo's second goal.  Six minutes of injury time was played but, despite some late pressure from the hosts, Belvo defended resolutely, and were deserved winners at the final whistle

Belvo team - Quirke, Harney, Turley, Broughall, Finn, Traynor, Relihan, Corry , Keohane, Burke ( O'Connor, 72), White. Unused subs: Henry, Gaynor, Smith, 

Report - Jamie Moore

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Sunday 6th October 2007

DDSL Under 16 Premier League

Belvedere F.C.  1  -  0  Home Farm F.C.

Following a good 2-0 win over St. Paul s Artane last weekend, Belvo had another home game in the league, this time in the Baskin Lane, where they welcomed Home Farm for a 12.30 kick off, hoping to keep up their unbeaten record.

Belvo received terrible news during the week when striker David Lodola broke his leg in two places while on trial in Burnley, he will miss at least twelve weeks of action and will be greatly missed. Dean Gaynor came in to replace Lodola upfront in an otherwise unchanged team.

The huge pitch would certainly suit Belvo's passing style of play, but the grass which could have done with a trim didn't help the boys in blue . The game started well for the home side, good passing and movement, Farm were chasing shadows in the opening minutes.

Stephen Relihan again was impressive in the holding-role, spraying the ball around the slick surface. Paul Corry and Steve Traynor on either side of Reli also played some nice passes while Garvan Broughall and Jason Finn at centre back were largely untroubled.

Belvo took the lead after sixteen minutes, top scorer Jimmy Keohane grabbed another goal as he finished well from inside the box after the ball broke loose. Could Belvo kick-on from here and finish the game? Or could Farm get back into it? The answer is neither.

Belvo were happy to try to keep possession while Home Farm found it difficult to get a hold on the game. Goalkeeper David Qurike had to deal with a few back-passes, but little else, while full-backs Michael Sheehan and Brendan Turley won their headers but had no real defensive work to do of any significance. Finn made an excellent trade mark saving tackle midway through the half.

Belvo began to get sloppy as the half drew to a close, but Quirke was still not forced to make a save so at half time Belvo were leading, but the game was far from over. The second half began as the first ended, with Belvo trying to do the difficult things and giving the ball away. 

The midfielders lost their way, while the ball did not stick up-front. The pacy Dean Gaynor made a couple of good runs, on one occasion Traynor slid through an excellent ball but it was eventually cleared. Corry also attempted a couple of forward passes but things were just not happening for the general and his soldiers.

Changes soon followed to try to and up the performance. Gareth Callaghan replaced Traynor while Colm Smith came on in attack for Gaynor. Shortly afterwards Qurike was forced into his first save. He excellently held a powerful long-range shot from a Home Farm midfield player.

David O'Connor then came on in place of Burke and he almost scored with his first touches. His good control and turn on the edge of the box led to a shot from 18 yards, the goalkeeper made an excellent save down to his left.

No more chances at either end, so another three points for Belvo, and another clean sheet, still top of the table but not playing at their best, there is definitely more to come.

Belvo team - Quirke, Sheehan, Turley, Finn, Broughall, Traynor ( Callaghan, 60), Relihan, Corry , Burke ( O Connor, 70 ), Keohane, Gaynor ( Smith, 60 ).

Report - Jamie Moore

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Sunday 30th September 2007

DDSL Under 16 Premier League

Belvedere F.C.  2  -  0  Saint Pauls Artane

Back to winning ways last weekend and still unbeaten, Belvo welcomed newly promoted St. Pauls Artane  on Sunday morning, hopeful of ending the away side's unbeaten record. Belvo made one change from last weekends win over St. Kevins, Michael Sheehan replaced the injured Neil Harney at right back.

Belvo began the game well as the rain loomed overhead, controlling possession, passing well and giving Saint Pauls a very seldom look at the ball. Stephen Relihan, playing the midfield holding role was again excellent, while Captain Paul Corry was reveling in his advanced role to Relihan s left.

Corry and last weekends four goal man Jimmy Keohane, both tested the goalkeeper early but, it was Gary Burke who put his side ahead, inside ten minutes. Corry spotted Burke lurking at the back post, he played an excellent reverse pass over the left-back onto Burke s foot, he expertly volleyed home left footed from eight yards, an excellent goal.

That calmed Belvo's early nerves, now they had a platform to build on, and that s just what they did. Broughall and particularly Jason Finn were again totally in command at the back, while Sheehan and Turley both did everything they had to do defensively.

Keohane was not getting much of the ball on the right, but Burke and Lodola were both having a positive impact on the game. Burke's turn and half volley from thirty yards flew inches over the crossbar. Lodola also forced a save from long range.

Lodola, playing against his former club, was winning every header and linking up play well and he got his just rewards before half time as he got his side s second. Keohane whipped in a great corner, Lodola made a great run across the defender and converted with a great diving header into the top corner, his first goal of the season and what a game to get it in.

At half time Belvo were totally in control, David Quirke could have stayed in bed, for the amount of touches he got in goal. Belvo knew that 2-0 is a very dangerous scoreline, the next goal in the game would be crucial.

The second period was not as fruitful as the first, with very few chances being created. Belvo players suffered a new knocks as Saint Pauls got a bit frustrated, but none too serious. Chances soon followed as Dean Gaynor, David O'Connor and Colm Smith all came on, with Steve Traynor, Burke and Keohane making way.

Gaynor almost got a third with Belvo's only real effort of the second half. His excellent low shot from the corner of the box crashed off the post, across the six yard box and was cleared. 

Another clean sheet, five now in six games, four wins and two draws, thirteen points, the league title is defiantly in the grasp of Belvo this season if the winning form continues.

Belvo team - Quirke, Sheehan, Turley, Finn, Broughall, Traynor ( Gaynor, 60), Relihan, Corry, Keohane ( O'Connor, 65), Burke ( Smith, 60), Lodola

Report - Jamie Moore

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Sunday 23rd September 2007

DDSL Under 16 Premier League

Belvedere F.C.  6  -  1  Saint Kevin's Boys

 
Two wins from their first two games and no goals conceded, two points from their last two games with no goals scored, still undefeated but not playing at their full potential, Belvo needed to produce a good performance against St. Kevins on Sunday and thats just what they did.

Instrumental in the victory was the decision to play Jimmy Keohane further forward, which allowed the excellent Stephen Relihan to slot into a holding midfield role. That was the only change from last weekends disappointing scoreless draw away to Leixlip.

The game didn't start very well for the Belvo boys, as they lost their four game clean sheet record in under seven minutes. A long hoof up the pitch by the Kevin's goalkeeper, caused the Belvo defence problems. 

The ball was allowed to bounce and as the screaming David Quirke rushed from his line, he dropped the ball under pressure and the nippy  striker finished well from a tight angle.
Belvo, had started the game well, despite being behind and it did not take them long to draw level. 

The aforementioned Relihan, along with midfield compatriots Steve Traynor who also had a very good game and captain Paul Corry were controlling midfield. Defender Garvan Broughall was taken down in the box for a penalty kick, and up stepped the ever dependable Jimmy Keohane to smash into the bottom corner, one-one.

David Lodola and Corry combined to set up Keohane again to make it 2-1, he finished well after nice link up play between the two. As the half time whistle came, Belvo were only ahead by one goal, but in control of the game.

Less then a minute after the restart it was three, and guess what? It was Keohane again who is fast making a name for himself as a man who only scores hat-tricks and what a goal it was. Thirty yards out, one touch and BANG, the despairing goalkeeper could only watch the ball shoot past his out stretched arm, crash off the post and in.

Three minutes after that Belvo put the game beyond doubt, when the skilful Gary Burke scored, lobbing the advancing keeper after a great ball from the back. Corry then made the fifth when he made a great run across the six yard box to the back-line to receive a throw in, his excellent pull-back found Keohane who then coolly slotted home from eight yards.

Danny Henry replaced Quirke in goal, Michael Sheehan and David O'Connor came in for Neil Harney and Traynor while Gareth Callaghan and Colm Smith replaced  Corry and Lodola respectively. 

One more goal was to follow, as Belvo played out the game. Broughall was again felled in the box, this time he stepped up himself to send the 'keeper the wrong way. 6-1, a commanding performance, back to winning ways for the boys in blue.

Belvo team - Quirke ( Henry, 60), Harney ( Sheehan, 55), Turley, Broughall, Finn, Traynor ( O'Connor, 65), Corry ( Callaghan, 55), Relihan, Keohane, Burke, Lodola ( Smith, 65)

Report: Jamie Moore

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Sunday 9th September 2007

DDSL Under 16 Premier League

Saint Kevin's Boys  0  -  0  Belvedere F.C.

After two wins in two games so far, Belvedere arrived to the AUL hopeful of another three points in their quest for the league title. However, the game was tougher then they thought. David Quirke was fit to return in goal after injury, so Danny Henry, who was excellent in the last game, dropped to the bench.

Belvo started the game sloppily, St. Kevin s knew from early on that they had a chance in the game. Their physical approach seemed to rattle the visitors in the opening stages and Belvo were limited to few chances.

Long kick-outs from the Kevin's goalkeeper caused the back four huge problems as the ball was allowed to bounce on numerous occasions. That was to be Kevin's tactic, as they were getting some joy from it.

Quirke had to be alert on more then one occasion in the opening period to snuff out any danger. Belvedere's usual passing abilities were not evident, players miss-controlling simple passes, lack of communication etc.

As a result of a poor start to the game Belvo made two early changes. Lee Dixon and Steve Traynor were replaced by Garreth Callaghan and Colm Smith.

Belvo s best chance of the first half fell to David Lodola, he found space in the box after a Paul Corry corner was cleared, but his quick shot was excellently saved by the diving 'keeper. As half-time arrived, Belvo knew their performance would have to improve.

The second half started much better, more passes were finding feet, the communication improved and there was a general up in the performance. Callaghan, Corry and Keohane were having more of an influence on the game, while the tricky Gary Burke was finding space to try to link up the play.

As the game wore on, Kevin's, having worked hard began to tire and Belvo were now getting more opportunities to get crosses in and create chances. One such chance fell to Smith, but he unfortunately failed to convert.

Dean Gaynor was also introduced towards the end to try to utilise his pace down the wings but, to no avail. This was two points dropped by Belvo, seven points from three games, no goals scored but, also no goals conceded, the performance must improve next week.

Belvo team - Quirke, Harney, Turley, Finn, Broughall, Dixon ( Smith, 25), Traynor ( Callaghan, 25), Corry , Keohane, Burke ( Gaynor, 65), Lodola

Report - Jamie Moore
 
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Sunday 2nd September 2007

DDSL Under 16 Premier League

Belvedere F.C.  2  -  0  Cherry Orchard

Following a good 3-0 home win over St Francis in their first match of the new season on Tuesday night, Belvedere welcomed rivals Cherry Orchard on Sunday, hoping for a repeat of last season's result, when they beat Orchard at the Lawn in the fourth round all-Ireland cup.  

Belvo made two changes to the starting lineup, with Lee Dixon coming in for Colm Smith on the right of midfield and Danny Henry replacing the injured David Quirke in goal. Man of the match from Tuesday, David Lodola started up front with, two goal Gary Burke, while new boy Brendan Turley continued at left-back.

Belvo began the game quite sluggishly and the away side had their first chance after only two minutes. Belvo were dispossessed outside their own box, but Henry made an excellent one-on-one save to deny the striker.

A minute later, Orchard had another effort, a header which clipped the crossbar before going over. The luck was certainly with the "boys in blue" in the early stages. Belvo had their first shot on target after ten minutes. Lodola's long range effort was deflected into the hands of the grateful goalkeeper.

Belvo began to slowly get a hold on things, but were still making it difficult for themselves in midfield. The coaches were demanding an improvement and shortly afterwards they got what they wanted and what an excellent team goal it was.

Burke fed Lodola, who then played in Turley on the left, and his pin-point cross was met by an unmarked Dixon at the back-post, and he expertly headed across goal and into the corner of the net to make 1-0 after 25 minutes. Could Belvo now build on their advantage?

Belvo began the second half much better then the first, creating a good opportunity. Dixon's mazy run beat four defenders, he then forced an excellent save from the visiting 'keeper. Minutes later Lodola found Dixon, his pass was well controlled by Burke, who swiveled and unleashed a powerful left-footed volley, which agonizingly clipped the frame of the goal.

Then goalkeeper Danny Henry suffered a reoccurrence of a calf injury, so the not-fully-fit Quirke had to be called into action to replace him. Belvo then made a double change, Jimmy Keohane and Burke came off to be replaced by Gareth Callaghan and Smith. Callaghan made a great run with his first touches, but again the goalkeeper made a good save.

Captain Paul Corry then had an opportunity. He worked a nice one-two with Smith before shooting from a tight angle, unfortunately for him and his side it was tipped around the post. Not to worry for Belvo as it was soon two nil.

Lodola's determination to chase down a lost-cause won his side a corner. Dixon's excellent delivery was brilliantly headed home by Garvan Broughall, his second goal in as many games, 2-0, surely game over? Stephen Relihan then came on to replace a tired Steve Traynor.

Shortly afterwards the referee blew the final whistle. Six points from six for Belvo, five goals scored and none conceded. Performance-wise it will improve, but they could not have asked for a better start.

Man of the Match was Turley, who gave the visiting right-back a torrid time with his overlapping runs, delivering some excellent crosses and making Belvo's first goal.

Belvo team - Henry ( Quirke 50), Harney, Turley, Broughall, Finn, Traynor (Relihan, 70), Corry (c), Keohane ( Callaghan, 55), Dixon, Burke ( Smith 55), Lodola.

Report - Jamie Moore

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