Thrilling Draw As West Coast United And Kinvara United FC Share Spoils

In a gripping encounter at Kinvara FC on 7th September 2024, West Coast United and Kinvara United FC played out a thrilling 3-3 draw in a league away match. Both teams showcased their attacking prowess, resulting in a match that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.

West Coast United lined up in a 3-5-2 formation, featuring Lorcan Gay in goal, with a defensive trio comprising Jack Folan, Eoin Mahon, and Dara Coyne. The midfield was bolstered by Jack Weesjes, Martin Conneely, Eoin Gannon, and Mikey Conroy, while Jack Casey and Jordan Kearney led the attack. Aaron O'Neill also started, contributing to the team's dynamic play. The substitutes for West Coast United included Connal Hennessy, who would later make an impact in the match.

The first half was a rollercoaster of emotions, with Kinvara United FC striking first. A defensive mistake from West Coast United allowed the opponents to take the lead in the 7th minute, capitalising on the error to score a goal that set the tone for an intense battle. Just three minutes later, Kinvara United FC extended their lead with a stunning direct free-kick from over 25 yards, leaving Lorcan Gay with little chance to respond. The home side's dominance continued as they netted a third goal in the 36th minute, this time via a volley from close range, putting West Coast United in a precarious position as they trailed 3-0 at half-time.

However, the second half saw a remarkable turnaround for West Coast United. Jack Weesjes, who had been a standout performer throughout the match, began the comeback with a direct free-kick from 18-25 yards in the 65th minute, reducing the deficit to 3-1. His confidence surged, and he struck again just 11 minutes later, scoring another direct free-kick that brought the score to 3-2, igniting hopes of a dramatic equaliser.

As the match approached its climax, West Coast United continued to press for an equaliser. In the 89th minute, they were rewarded for their relentless efforts when an own goal from a Kinvara United FC player, following a corner taken by Eoin Gannon, levelled the score at 3-3. The late drama encapsulated the spirit of the match, with both teams having their moments of brilliance and misfortune.

The referee, Mike Shaughnessy, had a challenging task managing the ebb and flow of the game, but the match concluded with both teams sharing the spoils. The draw leaves West Coast United with plenty to build on, particularly the resilience they showed in the second half, while Kinvara United FC will reflect on missed opportunities to secure all three points.