Rathcoole FC Thrashes Firhouse In Dominant Display

Rathcoole FC's over 35s team delivered a commanding performance against Firhouse o35s, securing a resounding 6-1 victory in their league away match at Firhouse on 29 March 2025. The match kicked off at 4:00pm and saw Rathcoole showcase their attacking prowess and defensive solidity throughout the 90 minutes.

Rathcoole lined up in a 3-2-3-2 formation, designed to balance defensive stability with attacking flair. Chris McGlynn took his position in goal, while the back three consisted of Gary Ryan in the centre, flanked by Shane Hyland on the right and Simon Doyle on the left. In midfield, Will Moran and Luke Keegan operated centrally, providing both defensive cover and support for the forwards. The attacking trio featured Johnny Paun on the right, Tiago Faria in the centre, and Paul Moran on the left, with Sammi Idris and Beano Corrigan leading the line as forwards. The substitutes for Rathcoole included David Doyle and Des McGrath.

The match began with an explosive start for Rathcoole, as Beano Corrigan opened the scoring just four minutes in, expertly converting a pass from Johnny Paun. This early goal set the tone for the match, and Rathcoole quickly asserted their dominance over the Firhouse defence. Shortly after, David Doyle was introduced, replacing Luke Keegan, as Rathcoole looked to maintain their momentum.

As the first half progressed, Rathcoole continued to press, and their efforts paid off when Johnny Paun doubled the lead in the 35th minute, showcasing his skill and determination. The half concluded with Rathcoole firmly in control, leading 2-0 at the break.

The second half saw Rathcoole maintain their attacking intensity, and in the 61st minute, Beano Corrigan struck again, this time assisted by David Doyle, extending the lead to 3-0. Firhouse struggled to contain Rathcoole’s relentless forward play, and the substitutions made by Rathcoole, including the return of Sammi Idris for Tiago Faria in the 66th minute, only added fresh legs to their already potent attack.

Des McGrath made an impactful entrance in the 74th minute, replacing David Doyle, and he soon made his mark on the game. In the 84th minute, McGrath converted a penalty, further widening the gap to 4-0. However, Firhouse managed to find a consolation goal in the 86th minute, breaking through Rathcoole’s defence to score, but it was too little, too late.

Rathcoole responded emphatically, with Des McGrath scoring his second goal in stoppage time, assisted by Johnny Paun, bringing the score to 5-1. The final act of the match came when Luke Keegan found the net in the 159th minute, with another assist from David Doyle, sealing a comprehensive 6-1 victory for Rathcoole FC.

The match highlighted Rathcoole's attacking capabilities and solid defensive structure, with Gary Ryan earning accolades for his commanding performance at the back. The victory not only boosts Rathcoole's confidence but also reinforces their position in the league as a formidable force.