Match Report - Villa 1-2 Kilbarry Rangers

The lads aimed to continue their good start to the season when they made the short trip to play on the brand new Astro in Connors Park. The lads had a more healthy panel compared to the win over Abbeyside but still having some key players missing which led to some players playing out of position.

After growing into the game we started to create chances and we went in the lead when the experienced Shane O’Connor got an inch of space in the box and he rifled home into the roof of the net to give us a crucial lead. Shane who has played at a high level in the past is a great signing and he showed why on Saturday!

We defended very well through the game, but Villa did have a great chance in the first half when a good cross into the box was met with a header from just 5 yards out but Kieran Houlihan pulled off an outrageous save tipping the ball onto the bar despite the pace on the ball and the small reaction time he had but a terrific reflex lead to a save of the season contender.

We went 2-0 up when Glen Kavanagh got into space on the right wing, an intelligent run into the box by Conor Houlihan was able to meet Glens low cross and the ball seemed to have went over the line but the ref did not give the goal, however, Robert McDonald played to the whistle and stayed switched on and he unleashed a terrific strike into the roof of the net past some Villa bodies to double the lead.

Villa would pull one back with 20 left, there was questions of offside and it was disappointing as it was basically the only clear cut chance we gave away but the lads saw out the win comfortably to make it three wins from three!

Next week we play a good St Paul’s team on Sunday morning at 11am. Come support the lads!