Friday, Feb 23rd 2024. RDFL grounds in Lecarrow. Cold, damp, but thoroughly buzzing for whatever was to come. The first sporting contest of the year. The 5 a side soccer is one of our favourite competitions, and this year, we were really looking forward to it.
We had 4 teams, 2 Boys teams and 2 Girls teams. The Boys A team were in a group with Tisrara, Slatta, and Carrick B. Following some excellent performances, they topped the group, leaving them a semi-final against St Ciarán’s from Moore, which we also won. This qualified us for the final against Athleague. After a hard fought, close encounter, we edged them out by a single goal to qualify for the next day of the competition.
Our Boys B team, despite trying hard, and playing their best couldn’t replicate the classmates. They beat Aughrim 2-1, drew with Camcloon, but lost to St Ciarán’s. However, they really enjoyed the experience.
The Girls A team were in a group of 4 with Tisrara, Athleague B and St Ciarán’s B, and they qualified for the next stage with 3 straight wins. They played Aughrim in the semi final, and this was a cracker. Neither team could score in normal time. In extra time, Aughrim took a deserved lead, but Lisaniskey equalised with the last kick of the game, to send it to penalties. Up stepped Sophie and Sheena, who both scored, while goalkeeper Zoe saved 2 to help her team win. However, the final was a bridge too far, as a very strong Ballyforan team romped home in style. However, well done Lisaniskey girls, you were superb throughout.
As were the Girls B team. With only 5 players, 3 matches in quick succession tired the girls out, and they were unlucky to lose all 3, despite their very best efforts, and some fabulous football. Once again, the primary objective of having fun was reached!
5 a side soccer Feb 2024