Firstly, United’s U19s will not now be playing Shamrock Rovers of Wexford in a pre-season match this week, as the game has been called off at the behest of the Enniscorthy club.

On Thursday the young Blues had a very useful run-out (two very useful runs, in fact) against a very strong University of San Diego. Two games took place simultaneously, and both ended up with 4-0 wins to the visiting sides.

Two quick second half goals from Pat Wllons and Conor McFadden set up San Diego for the win in the first game, after a lively and well-matched first half. The Blues side included Jack Doherty, Nathan West and Alan Rhodes and Willie John Kiely guested to get some valuable game time under his belt. Sean Whitty kept goal, and a brand new defensive line of Conor Whittle, Gavin O’Donovan, Patrick Fitzgerald and Michael Glynn did well, but they were undone by a fortunate penalty and a quickfire second. McFadden scored again late on to kill the game, and Joseph Downes wrapped up the scoring in the last minute.

In the other game, the result ended up the same, but had the Blues took their chances it could have ben a different story. David Cooley, Andrew O’Connor, Jamie Hunt and Jamie Walsh were some of the United players to catch the eye, but whereas chances were missed by the home side, San Diego were ruthless in despatching the opportunities they created. Conor Lennon hit two first half goals, and Joey De Rossi two after the break to wrap up a comfortable win.

(photos and details with thanks to Paul Elliot / Waterford Soccer Monthly)