Super six on the road for Athletic side
Mullingar Athletic 6-0 Frankford Utd
Just days after a midweek Cup 5-1 victory over Divisional Winners Gallen, Mullingar Athletic's U19 second team travelled to Kilcormac, Offaly to face Frankford Utd in the CCFL Shield.
There were quite a few players absent with injury, but that didn't stop this ever improving side who turned in a fine performance to keep this season alive with a good run in cup competitions. In-form Fionn Maguire continued his outstanding work for the team and his goal-scoring run by opening the scoring after five minutes. Following some excellent play on the right from Killian Jackson and Adam Glynn, Jackson struck the post initially, only for Maguire to be on hand to slot home the first goal. Moments later, Jackson made it 2-0 to the visitors: a heavy challenge in the area resulted in a penalty kick and Jackson stood up a to score with great conviction.
Mullingar had the lion's share of possession and good chances in the first half. Mark Tunney made his return from a season long injury, his half volley looked destined for the top corner only to go narrowly wide. Maguire made it 3-0 after 40 minutes with a strikers goal as he was on hand to capitalise on a mix up in the home rear guard.
Athletic looked assured at the back. Captain Cathal Nevin was imperious leading his charges brilliantly. In goal Seamus O'Brien keeps on growing in both stature and ability as his calm nature and approach to the game was of huge benefit to the Mullingar team. Daniel O'Brien was another who played very well at centre half, dealing with any potential threat from the home side. However, it was both full backs, Adam Glynn and Luke Raeside who deserve special praise as the traditional forwards helped out excellently in defence.
JJ McNamee was another having a fine display in attack - the striker made it 4-0 early into the second half. McNamee and Jackson would both join Maguire with braces during a second half largely dominated by Athletic.
Daire Cleary has been incredible of late and he was unplayable throughout the game, with the Frankford defenders having no answer other than to haul him down. Cleary and Tunney linked up very well but this was thanks to the hard work of midfield general Riley Mead. With Niall Bardon coming on late to refresh things and with a 6-0 scoreline, Mullingar can be very happy with a good days work. This now sees Athletic B progress to the next round of this competition with goals coming aplenty at the business end of the season.
Man of the match goes to Daire Cleary who was on another level from start to finish with everything positive from Mullingar going through the dynamic midfielder.