Match Report - NAAS AFC (BLUES) - 20 May 2018

The match was evenly fought for the first 40 minutes when we were forced to make a change to our backline. Our defensive line held their line 25/30yds from our end line in the first half giving them very few opportunities. The line drifted more forward in the second half allowing them in behind for goal opportunities. The main difference between the two teams was the strength of benches. We had one sub and they had five and two of the players they brought off the bench had a big impact. The game drifted away from us in the second half. We are not that far away but we need to start games with 14 or more players and end with 11 on the field. It is hard for Ken and myself to make any tactical changes when we only have 12 players to work with. Hopefully we will have the injured lads back soon and get Brendan into the squad quickly.

Ratings:

Emmet Doran (6): Played well and commanded the defence well. A little too close to end line a few times which put him under pressure when they put a ball over the top which was most evident with the conceded penalty.

Sean Geoghan (6.5): Consistent display from Sean. A few early mistakes but then settled well. Doesn't do a lot wrong and does a good job for the team.

Aidan Comerford (6.5): A stronger performance this week and made himself available frequently. Caused problems going forward

Greg McDonald (7): Looked very composed in the centre of defence. Injury just before halftime unsettled the defence.

Matty Drewitt: (6): Solid but didn't look as engaged as previous games.

Paul Walsh (7): Worked tirelessly despite been shuffled around in different positions. Gave little away.

Rob Hughes (7): Ran the line well and gave good width options on the right. Unlucky not to score with a downward header before getting his goal, chasing down what looked like a lost cause but getting his reward with his first goal of the season. Improving

Aaron Moriarty (6): Tried and chased down well. Needs to get more efforts on goal. Trying too hard to get the perfect clear-cut chance and ending up dispossessed. Still waiting for his first goal of the season.

Liam Walsh (7): Solid performance. Offloading ball is improving and had some lovely passages of passing. Moved a few times to different positions and adapted well.

Conor Foley (7.5): Usual powerhouse performance in midfield. Let opposition know they were in a game. Never gave up. Will be missed when he's in America.

Ben Holmes (6.5): Not as dominant as previous matches. Lacked supply but always looked dangerous when the ball was at his feet. Better linking up will bring more opportunities.

Conor Nolan (6): Growing in confidence but still a little light in challenges. Seemed unsure of what his role was but got supply when staying wide. Improving.