After the summer break, Raphoe 1st XI played their first competitive game of the new season away to Civil Service in the Linden Cup.
The opening quarter saw both sides evenly matched in possession, with chances created at both ends. Civil Service finished the half strongly, but the Raphoe defence stood firm.
Into the second quarter, Raphoe kept the ball well and worked it through midfield with confidence. Keith Meehan and Sam McKnight linked up cleverly down the left, with Keith sliding Sam into the circle to win a penalty corner. From the top of the circle, Matthew Lecky made no mistake, rifling his shot past the keeper to give Raphoe the lead. After going ahead, Raphoe continued to create opportunities, but midway through the quarter they were reduced to nine men after two players picked up green cards.
Early in the third quarter, Civil Service were awarded a penalty corner which they converted to level the game. Raphoe then came under pressure, but with Service pushing forward, space opened up in behind. Raphoe broke quickly, leaving Jake McKnight 1v1 with the keeper. His reverse-stick effort was well saved, and the rebound went narrowly wide.
The final quarter grew tense with no branch umpires in place. Both teams battled hard, cancelling each other out, but Service continued to press. Late on, Raphoe were again reduced to nine men, and Service capitalised with another penalty corner, squeezing the ball in at the near post. With tempers rising and no umpires present, the game ended prematurely.
Final Score: Civil Service 2 – 1 Raphoe
Goal Scorer: Matthew Lecky
2nd XI
At home, the 2nds battled hard against Bangor 4s. Both sides created chances, with Raphoe showing real determination to secure a well-earned draw.
Result: Raphoe 1–1 Bangor 4s
3rd XI
On Friday night, the 3rds travelled to Ballynahinch to face a strong 1st XI side. Despite great effort, they were beaten 6–1, with Raphoe getting on the scoresheet to keep fighting spirit alive.
Result: Ballynahinch 1sts 6–1 Raphoe 3rds
