Season opener win for Mullingar Athletic

Mullingar Athletic AFC started their season in the Senior division with a well deserved win over Clara Town on Saturday evening in Gainstown.

The home side took an early lead through Nathan Scally, who was exceptional throughout. Captain Liam Brennan had a magnificent game in midfield with Jordan Scally as both controlled the opening stages of the game, however Clara fought back to get a foothold in the game before halftime, putting some pressure on the home defence, which was marshalled brilliantly by Oisin Tyrrell and Emmett Brennan with Alan Colgan in goals.

After the interval it was the home team that started the second half better. Full backs Jamie Loran and Darragh Kiernan were fantastic.

Kiernan doubled the advantage with a stunning free kick from the right of the penalty area. Nathan McCullagh, Tadgh Nolan and Tito Oluwafunmilade were a constant menace in attack, all 3 could have scored at various stages, creating numerous chances for their team as well.

The third goal came on the hour mark with Nathan Scally latching onto a through ball to slot home.

Clara got a goal back with 15 minutes remaining, however the hosts remained in control.

Athletic made some changes with Neilas Vitkauskas, DJ Flynn, Ross Clinton and Ejiro Siode coming off the bench to affect the game.

The 4th goal came from good work between Siode and Flynn who found Tadgh Nolan on the left flank. Nolan finished decisively to make sure of the result.

Clara scored a second in injury to make it 4-2 but it was too late to impact the result.

This was an excellent performance and win for a newly formed side, and a great start to the season.

Man of the match, Nathan Scally scored a brace and put in an incredible shift in the attack.

Mullingar Athletic AFC starting team:

Alan Colgan, Darragh Kiernan, Emmett Brennan, Oisin Tyrrell, Jamie Loran, Liam Brennan (capt), Jordan Scally, Nathan McCullagh, Tito Oluwafunmilade, Nathan Scally, Tadgh Nolan.

Subs used: Neilas Vitkauskas, DJ Flynn, Ross Clinton, Ejiro Siode.

A good night for the lads and coaches Robbie, Declan & Paul.