The scene was set at Frank Kelly Park on Mount Venus Road for another classic encounter between two strong teams, both with big squads and both eager for a win. It was a mixed evening, with the sun lighting up the beautiful Dublin hills and forests, but with the threat of rain in the air. Both teams had worked hard to get to the final and their supporters, friends and family were out in big numbers. BSJ knew they needed a big performance against this experienced side as their last visit here in June had ended in defeat.

BSJ started very strongly, showing real intent. A mix of youth and experience helped control possession, with slick passing and skilful kick distribution. We looked to neutralise their most dangerous player with a very effective man marking strategy. Wanders came more into the game and their attack looked dangerous, but our strong defence read their initial attacking patterns well. This was shaping up to be a cracker, and the journalists on the sideline were ringing back to head office with excitement in their voices. I even heard one journalist say: “Book me the front page of the Sports section tomorrow.”

Things were evenly matched, with some classic one on one battles going on. All players were standing up strong to their opposite numbers, with no inch given. Some of the hits would break bones in anyone over 80! The fans knew they were in for a treat. Wanders took a good lead, BSJ came right back and squared it up. But in the last ten minutes of the half, Wanders went for goals and were successful. At half-time we were a country mile behind (3-05 to 0-06) and feared more of the same in the second half. Cliché or not, “goals win games” and they were going for goals.

As it turned out, Fran and the coaching team’s half-time talk did the trick. The ladies won the second half and played fantastically, and but for the bounce of a ball here and there we could have won it. After our second goal, the Wanders coach was spooked and started screaming instructions. From the BSJ coaches point of view that’s was a little victory in itself. The tide was turning and we were in the ascendancy. Attack after attack yielded screams from the U10 Wanders boys team, cheering as we went left and right of the post and dropped shots at goal for the keeper. In fairness, Wanders reacted to the pressure and scored some very sweet points, their star player finding more space as tiredness kicked in. 

Alas, it was not to be, but the ladies left the field proud of their effort and the overall quality of their play. Some top class football was on display, and supporters, parents, and the coaching team all felt satisfied despite the loss. Nothing was left behind and that is all you can ask from this talented bunch. 

Congratulations to Sophie Fearon Player of the Match and to Neve Molloy Players Player of the Match.

Overall a good championship run.