Portlaoise AFC keep survival hopes alive with victory over Leixlip United

Two goals from captain Jason Murphy gave Portlaoise all three points in their relegation six-pointer on Tuesday night. Leixlip United came to Rossleighan Park two points better off than Portlaoise, but the 2-1 win has lifted Darren Rogers’ men above their Kildare rivals. 

Chris Mulhall’s presence was sorely missed as an outlet for Portlaoise, who often go to the striker with long balls to reduce pressure. With Murphy playing as a false 9 in his stead, Portlaoise lacked some of that outlet, as well as losing some of Murphy’s attributes further back the field. 

Portlaoise AFC 2

Leixlip Utd 1

Leinster Senior League

But David Doyle put in a Man of the Match performance, replacing Chris Mulhall in the front line. Doyle played a crucial role in Portlaoise getting the win, expertly holding up the ball in Leixlip territory – allowing runners to get up in support – as well as getting back into midfield to help Murphy create. 

The visitors opened the scoring after quarter of an hour through Giles Foka. Rory Delaney sent in a corner which centre back Eoin Hackett flicked into Foka’s direction, allowing him to poke the ball beyond Sean McCormack.

The Portlaoise goalkeeper was back in the team after a spell on the injury list. 17-year-old Kacper Banasik deputised in McCormack’s absence and really put his hand up for contention. Manager Rogers may have a decision to make as to who will be first choice next season. 

The hosts were level in the 33rd minute thanks to a spectacular free kick from 20 yards out. It is the captain’s fourth breath-taking free kick in as many games. Any direct free kick within 25 yards of the opposition goal is almost like a penalty to Murphy at this stage. 

The subdued reaction of Murphy, his teammates, and the bench exemplify just how commonplace it has become. It was more a reaction of realised expectation than celebration. 

The second half was something of a non-event until the winning goal came ten minutes from time. Rafter floated a delightful ball into the box where Murphy controlled with his left and finished into the bottom corner with his right. 

The win was vital to Portlaoise’s hopes of survival. They remain in the relegation places, three points from safety behind St John Bosco, with one game in hand. Portlaoise had the chance to go level with Bosco the previous Friday, but let a 2-1 lead slip to lose 3-2. That game in hand is scheduled for Friday 12th, at home to Dublin Bus

The toll of such a long season was evident when looking at Colm Poole and Aaron Rafter. The pair have started every game since Christmas and looked tired in midfield. They are two of the club’s best and most consistent players and have played a huge part in coping with the tremendous injury list this season.