Raphoe travelled to Saintfield for their 3rd league game of the season.
After a point last weekend, Raphoe were out to claim all three points this weekend and did just that
Starting the 1st quarter well and keeping possession in the middle of the field. Raphoe pressed hard down the left-hand side with a loose ball falling to Jonny long on the edge of the circle.
Jonny’s first-time shot was well saved by the home keeper, but Robbie Watt was at the back post to tap home. After conceding Saintfield picked up the pace pressing Raphoes back line. The pressure paid off and Saintfeild was awarded a short corner right on the whistle for the end of the first quarter. Saintfields well struck short found the back of the net for 1-1
In the second quarter, Raphoe enjoyed a lot of possession being able to string plenty of passes together and picked up the tempo, creating plenty of chances. Raphoe’s second goal came from a well executed short corner. Sam McKnight pulled the ball out for Matthew Lecky, who powered his shot past the keeper.
Half time saw Raphoe ahead 2-1.
Raphoe started a little slower in the 3rd quarter, having to soak up a lot of pressure. Raphoe set up well in their press, Johnny long pressed well from midfield, winning the ball back with an excellent tackle his first time ball into the D where Jake McKnight was on hand to sweep the ball into the back of the net.
In the final quarter, Raphoe were in control of the match, passing the ball around well, creating good opportunities. William Meehan pressed well from the front, nicking the ball off the defender, closing down on goal. The Saintfield keeper forced William into an early shot where the keeper saved well.
Raphoe’s fourth goal came from another well worked short corner from Mcknight and Lecky. Lecky powering a shot into the back of the net. With 5 minutes to go, Raphoe were caught in midfield allowing Saintfield to get another goal back.
Full-time Raphoe 4-2 Saintfeild
Goal scorers: Mattew Lecky x2 Jake McKnight, Robbie Watt
Also a big shout out to Reece Kilpatrick who made his debut for the 1st XI today, putting in a great performance
