Athletes from Athlone express self-assurance in their goal-scoring prowess prior to their initial European clash against Cardiff City
In the build-up to Athlone Town's UEFA Women's Champions League qualifier against Cardiff City, doubts hung over the fitness of key players Madie Gibson, Kelly Brady, and Izzy Groves, who had all picked up injuries in the previous match against Treaty United.
Gibson, Brady, and Groves were all injury doubts, with Gibson and Brady coming off injured during the 1-1 draw with Treaty United, while Groves had not played since last month's FAI Cup win over Terenure Rangers. Manager Colin Fortune emphasized the importance of these players while remaining cautiously optimistic about their fitness close to the match.
Despite these concerns, all three players managed to shake off their injuries and feature in the game. Groves scored the opening goal, Brady was active in attack, and Gibson also participated. Their participation in the match was a testament to the team's rigorous rehab and physio sessions in the days leading up to the game.
The Champions League first-qualifying round match between Athlone Town and Cardiff City took place at the Athlone Town Stadium, with a kick-off time of 7.30pm. The American winger for Athlone Town, Madie Gibson, expressed her respect for Cardiff City, acknowledging them as a good team. She also shared the excitement in the town about the match.
Manager Colin Fortune expressed concern about the quick succession of games, stating it has done some damage to their preparation for the match against Cardiff City. Despite this, he assured fans that the team will give Cardiff City a right go no matter who's on the pitch.
With the victory over Cardiff City, Athlone Town secured a place in the next round, where they will play at home against Croatian side ZNK Agram this Saturday. This makes Athlone Town the fifth Irish club to play in Europe, following Peamount United, Raheny United, Wexford, and Shelbourne.
Athlone Town boasts one of the top goalscorers in the league, Kelly Brady, who was active throughout the match against Cardiff City. The team also has several young players who can score goals and Róisín Molloy, who often provides assists.
Fans can watch the exciting match live on LOITV, as Athlone Town continues its journey in the UEFA Women's Champions League.
The injury doubts of Madie Gibson, Kelly Brady, and Izzy Groves, who all sustained injuries in the previous game against Treaty United, were put to rest as they participated in the Champions League match against Cardiff City. Madie Gibson, the American winger for Athlone Town, acknowledged Cardiff City as a formidable opponent in the European leagues, particularly the Champions League.
