Penalty shoot-out drama as Portlaoise school crowned Laois 5-a-side champions
They'll represent Laois in the Mid-Leinster Championships at the end of April
Schools from all over the county sent boys and girls to the FAI 5-a-side Championships with some teams fortunate enough to qualify for the county final at the end of March.
The Portlaoise Educate Together (PETNS) boys team were challenged by tough opposition on the day from fellow Laois schools; Killeshin NS, Scoil Mhuire Abbeyleix and St Fintan's NS.
Throughout the day, Nedas Merkininkas and David Bagar kept the Portlaoise school in line with great defending and communication to all players. Fantastic footwork from Ryan Bawa and great runs from Alan Przyborek ensured that the back of the net was found in every game. Miguel Vaz did the work of two players with his passing and defending in midfield.
All of the subs came onto the field and made an impact. John Mogaldea kept the team's shape at the back, while Liam McCarthy Esteban assisted Lucas Carroll for a great goal to keep the team's chances alive.
At the end of the day, three teams were tied up at 6 points each, and the competition went to a three-way penalty shootout. A terrific performance from Nedas Merkininkas in the goals and some very well-taken penalties from Ryan Bawa, Alan Przyborek and Miguel Vaz secured the victory for PETNS.
The team will go to Kilcullen on April 30 to represent Laois in the Mid-Leinster finals of the FAI Championships.