The U17 boys’ soccer team suffered a heartbreaking 3-2 defeat in a tense semi-final against Mercy Kilbeggan. RCC had the opportunity to wear their newly sponsored kit, courtesy of the Hodson Bay Hotel, but got off to a slow start, conceding within the first ten minutes. A cross from the right found Kilbeggan’s number 10, who made no mistake in finishing past RCC goalkeeper Nathan Flynn.

RCC grew into the game and deservedly equalised in the 25th minute when Luke Shally ran in behind the Kilbeggan defence and slotted a low shot into the bottom right corner. Five minutes later, Shally struck again, latching onto a well-placed through ball from Lewis Smyth before lifting a clever chip over the onrushing keeper to put RCC 2-1 ahead. RCC had chances to extend their lead before halftime but failed to capitalise.

The second half was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams creating chances. With 20 minutes remaining, Kilbeggan equalised as their number 11 raced onto a long ball and finished clinically. RCC pushed forward in search of a winner and came agonisingly close when Lucas De Sousa’s shot was blocked on the line. However, disaster struck with just eight minutes left when RCC conceded a penalty after a clumsy challenge. Kilbeggan’s number 11 converted from the spot to make it 3-2. Despite a late push, RCC couldn’t find an equaliser, bringing their league campaign to an unfortunate end.

While the result was disappointing, the team is already looking forward to next season. A huge thank you to the Hodson Bay Hotel for sponsoring the new jerseys, ensuring all three RCC boys’ teams are fully kitted out, alongside the U15 and U19 sponsors, Topline Wards and Norios Takeaway Roscommon.

Photo caption 1: Tim Hayes, Managing Director of the Hodson Bay Hotel Group, with soccer players Luke Hayes, Cian Hayes, Marc Shally, Luke Shally, and coach Aaron Deering at the official presentation of newly sponsored jerseys for the RCC U17 soccer team.

Photo caption 2: RCC U17 Boys Soccer Team with their new kit sponsored by the Hodson Bay Hotel.