Manortown United 2
Dynamo Dublin 1

On a brilliant sunny morning on the 8-Acres, the U12.3 team kept its 2026 unbeaten run alive and advanced to the Paddy Farry Cup Semi-Finals with a hard fought narrow 2-1 win versus a gritty and tenacious Dynamo Dublin team.  Last time these two teams met, the Manortown lads prevailed with a penalty in the final minute to win 1-0, so this one was always expected to be a tough match.

The Manortown lads started brightly, keeping much of the play in Dynamo’s half of the pitch, achieved through great passing and movement among the attacking players including Captain Lucas Farrelly-Campbell, Odran Kennedy, Conan Flanagan and Callum O’Reilly.  The backline was also protected by defensive midfielder Zach Dillon, who put aggressive tackles in to face-up to Dynamo’s own physical play.  Across the back , James Rafferty, Darragh Geraghty and Tom Cummins let very little through to trouble goalkeeper Finn Hyland, with Tom’s performance being particularly noteworthy for neutralising Dynamo’s dynamic #10 (usually their best player).

With one of his trademark runs through the middle, Lucas put Manortown 1-0 up in the first half.  Sam Dowling and Oisin O’Malley entered the fray and continued the trend of tough tackling and intelligent passing and movement set by their teammates.  Oisin then popped up at the back post to meet a brilliant cross to volley home to make it 2-0 in the second half.  With 10 minutes left, Dynamo scored after Finn came off his line to make a brilliant stop, but Dynamo poked home the rebound.  A nervy final few minutes ensued, but in the end the Manortown boys prevailed with a great victory.

As always, thanks to the team's sponsor, Firestoppers.