Round 3 of of the 2019 Minor Football Division 1 League campaign saw the Minor A team travel to Mobhi Road on Sunday morning to take on Na Fianna. The morning was bright and sunny with a strong breeze blowing across the pitch from the road side. Ballyboden started brightly with early points from Pearce Christie and Malachy Codd but the home team soon settled with 2 points from frees to level matters.

The Boden defence was limiting the space available to Na Fianna with Jack Lambert, Joe Maguire and Harry Donaghy marking tightly. Na Fianna edged ahead with 2 points before a free from Luke Byrne and a superbly taken goal from Enda Cashman put Boden back in front. Both teams were playing the game at a fast pace and half time arrived with Ballyboden ahead on a scoreline of 1.5 to 0.5.

Cian Leahy and Cillian Wall were introduced for the second half and both quickly settled into the pace of the game. Robert Cullen and Peter Gannon were working very hard in midfield with Patrick Dunleavy leading by example in the half back line. Points were exchanged with Enda Cashman, Malachy Codd and Luke Byrne on target for Ballyboden. A fine passing move resulted in a penalty which was expertly converted by Adam Kelleher before Na Fianna replied with a goal to narrow the gap to a point. Harry Colclough, Joey Donohoe and Conor Lowe made great contributions following their introduction as both sides made every effort to secure the win.

A superb save from Jake Turley denied Na Fianna and the Boden backs continued to work very hard in defence to limit the chances for the home team. A well worked move saw Pearce Christie finish to the net for the third goal and a well taken point by Cillian Wall closed out the scoring as Ballyboden claimed the points on a final score of 3.11 to 1.12. Great credit is due to both teams for the high standard of football played during the game.

The next league match is at home to Kilmacud Crokes on April 7th. Thanks to the parents and Boden supporters who gave great encouragement to the team throughout the match and to Miriam Christie for the photos.

Best wishes to those players doing the Leaving Cert. language oral exams during the next two weeks.

Team: Jake Turley, Joe Maguire, Jack Lambert, Sean O’Donnell, Conor Hanrahan, Patrick Dunleavy, Harry Donaghy, Peter Gannon, Robert Cullen, Pearce Christie, Malachy Codd, Enda Cashman, Luke Byrne, Adam Kelleher, Ryan O’Dwyer, Joey Donohoe, Cian Leahy, Conor Lowe, Cillian Wall, Harry Colclough.