History made as CK claim first-ever senior victory in debut match
Harry Sherlock scored a wonderful effort for CK Utd's first senior goal Photos: Aisling
As preparations continue for CK United's historic inaugural National League campaign, history was made on Bank Holiday Monday when the new club recorded victory in its first-ever fixture, defeating Waterford Reserves in front of a large crowd in Killeshin.
With less than four weeks remaining before Newbridge visit SETU Carlow South Campus for CK's league opener, the fledgling side produced an encouraging display against a Waterford squad that included six first-team players alongside members of their reserve and Under-20 panels.
For a team assembled from scratch just a fortnight ago, CK looked well organised and disciplined throughout. Chances were limited in a tightly contested encounter, but the hosts more than held their own against experienced opposition.
Waterford enjoyed spells of possession but found it difficult to break down a compact CK defence, often resorting to efforts from distance. At the other end, CK occasionally lacked creativity in open play and relied heavily on set-pieces, but there was plenty to suggest the foundations are already in place for the challenges ahead. With Dean Kelly still to return from injury, there is every reason to believe there is more improvement to come before the competitive action begins.
There was also a memorable occasion for 16-year-old Timmy Adeleye, who was handed a place in the starting line-up on a landmark afternoon for the club.
CK had been scheduled to face Jobstown in their first outing on Saturday, but the Dublin side withdrew late, meaning Monday's clash became the club's maiden fixture.
And in years to come, when local pub quiz enthusiasts debate who scored CK United's first-ever goal, the answer will be Harry Sherlock.
The former Wexford player etched his name into club history moments before half-time with a goal worthy of the occasion. Spotting the Waterford goalkeeper off his line from just inside the opposition half, Sherlock unleashed an audacious effort from near the right touchline that sailed over the stranded keeper and nestled in the bottom corner.
CK doubled their advantage midway through the second half. Former New Oak midfielder Jordan Harmon found space down the left and delivered a dangerous ball into the penalty area for Emmett Nugent. Nugent initially missed his connection, but when the ball broke kindly to Paddy O'Connor, he reacted quickly to play it back into Nugent's path. The striker made no mistake at the second attempt, drilling a low finish into the bottom-left corner.
Waterford pulled a goal back 17 minutes from time when a cross from the right was headed home at the far post, setting up an anxious finish.
However, CK stood firm to secure a memorable victory and ensure the club's first chapter ended on a winning note.
