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Astoria Gaels feast on Hungary

February 16, 2011

By Staff Reporter

Astoria Gaels took on Hungary SC at Randalls Island on Sunday and came out with a commanding 4-0 victory.

With a squad of 19 players on hand, a new Boom Construction-sponsored kit and glorious fall weather, manager Jimmy Ralph had lots of options for this game and again he pushed all the right buttons. With the new faces gelling well with last year’s runners-up squad, the Gaels startled with good possession football. Slow build-ups produced some shots on goal, and Hungary were kept pressed in their own half.

After 20 minutes Derek McKenna created the first goal with a through ball that Mickey Sweeney clinically finished to open the scoring.

Hungary were using the long ball to try and create offense, but Niall Sugrue and Steve White were dominant at the center of defense, time and again clearing with strong headers.

Hungary’s only clear chance came on a 20-yard free after 40 minutes, but goalkeeper Eugene Kyne saved, diving to his left.

Brendan Donoghue was moved to the center of midfield to start the second half and Joe Harris was brought in at left back. Trainer Mark Burke asked his charges to increase the tempo and they responded in force. Kevin Nagle was coming deep to carry the ball up, and Nestor Allen and Donoghue were taking control in midfield.

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Allen added the second and Derek McKenna the third on a chip from 25 yards out.

Hungary’s only chance was cleared off the line by Harris. The Gaels completed the scoring when sub Gavin finished a good move started by a long clearance from White.

Best for Astoria were Kyne, Niall Sugrue and Steve White at the back, McKenna had some great touches up front, and man of the match was Brendan Donoghue.

Training continues every Tuesday night.

Astoria Gaels lineout: Kyne, Mulrey, O’Reilly, Sugrue, S. White, Beirne, Nagle, J. O’Reilly, Donoghue, McKenna, Sweeney. Subs: Harris, Allen, Gavin, Moore.

Also, the annual Astoria Gaels dinner dance is Oct. 31 at Astoria World Manor. Music will be by Raglan Road. Guest of honor is Fr. Colm Campbell .

For information, call Siobhan at (718) 997-9288.

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