Penalty perfection sends Portlaoise CBS through against Naas CBS
Goalkeeper Aaron Egan made some crucial saves for the Laois school
Portlaoise CBS' Under-15 soccer team booked their place in the league semi-finals after a dramatic victory over Naas CBS last week.
The Laois side got off to a dream start when Darragh Keenan gave them an early lead. However, Naas CBS responded with two goals from corners, leaving Portlaoise trailing 2-1 at halftime.
Undeterred, St Mary’s CBS fought back with relentless pressure, and their hard work paid off when Éoin Fitzpatrick struck a crucial equaliser. With no further goals, the game moved into extra time, where goalkeeper Aaron Egan produced two outstanding saves to keep his side in contention.
Penalties followed, and after five spot-kicks each, the teams remained deadlocked. Sudden death ensued, and on the 10th round, Adam McDonald stepped up to convert before Egan delivered the final moment of magic, saving to seal a hard-earned victory.
McDonald, a commanding presence at centre-back, was named Man of the Match as Portlaoise CBS marched on to the semi-finals.