Blast from the Past. October 19th 2003. Premier leaders Rockville shred Togher defence!

 Blast from the Past. October 19th 2003

Premier leaders Rockville shred Togher defence!

Togher Rovers 1  Rockville 4

Razor sharp Rockville

Let's rewind the clock to a crisp autumn day in 2003, October 19th to be exact. The AUL Premier League was heating up, and Togher Rovers were looking to pull off an upset against league leaders Rockville at Clashduv Road.

Early Togher Threat

The home side came out firing on all cylinders. Eddie Byrne, Togher's centre-forward, nearly opened the scoring with a thunderous strike that rattled the bar in the 3rd minute. Minutes later, his powerful header forced a save from Rockville's goalkeeper, Kieran Cogan.

Togher's Eddie Byrne rattled the bar early on.

Rockville Take Control

Rockville weathered the early storm and began to dictate the pace through midfielder Eric Doolin. His vision and control helped unlock the Togher defense, leading to the game's opening goal in the 18th minute. Doolin played a delightful pass to the legendary Mick McAuliffe, who coolly slotted the ball past the keeper.

Togher keeper was unable to cut out this cross but the prowling Rockville sub
Terry Connolly (12) didn't manage to convert

Togher Respond

Togher refused to go down without a fight. A penalty awarded in the 24th minute after Austin O'Connor was fouled in the box gave them a lifeline. Brian Lenihan stepped up and confidently converted the spot-kick, restoring parity for the home side.

Rockville Regain Ascendancy

The game ebbed and flowed throughout the first half, with both teams creating chances. Rockville's goalkeeper, Cogan, kept Togher at bay with a string of impressive saves, denying efforts from Andy Keegan and Brian Lenihan.

Rockville's John Long on the ball

McAuliffe Steals the Show

The second half belonged to Rockville, and specifically, Mick McAuliffe. He capitalised on a defensive lapse in the 57th minute, skillfully putting Rockville back in the lead. McAuliffe wasn't done yet. He completed his hat-trick in the 78th minute, displaying his predatory instincts once again.

Rockville's Jason McGillacuddy in control of the ball

Rockville Cap it Off

The scoring wasn't over. Jason McGillacuddy put the icing on the cake for Rockville with a spectacular volley in the closing minutes. The final whistle blew, sealing a convincing 4-1 victory for the visitors.

Togher battled well but came up short

Final Thoughts

While Togher Rovers put in a valiant effort, Rockville's clinical finishing and midfield dominance secured them a well-deserved win. The performance of Mick McAuliffe, with his hat-trick, was undoubtedly the highlight of the game.

Togher Rovers: Pat Philpot, David Wallace, Fergal O’Leary, Liam Donovan, Liam Dawson, Carl Browne, Austin O’Connor, Daniel Cooper, Eddie Byrne, Brian Lenihan and Andrew Keegan, Subs: Ritchie Fitzgerald for Browne (at half-time) and  Nicky Kelleher for Cooper (66).

Rockville: Kieran Cogan, Eoin O’Neill, John Long, Gregg Duggan, Denis McAuliffe, Damien O’Sullivan, Eamonn Cassidy, Eric Doolin, Mick McAuliffe, Wayne Hogan and Jason McGillacuddy. Sub used: Terry Connolly for Duggan (55).

Referee: Christy Byrne

Referee Christy Byrne with captains