Cian Kingston proud to captain Carrigaline against Cork City

Playing in front of a huge crowd at your local pitch is something that will stick with Cian Kingston for a very long time.

The Carrigaline United captain spoke fondly of last Fridays clash between his club and Cork City in the Munster Senior Cup tie at Ballea Park.

Although his side lost 2-0 he said it was a great occasion for all involved with the club and a game he felt very proud to lead his team in what was an entertaining contest.

“Playing against Cork City was a brilliant occasion for the team and everyone involved in the club because draws like that don't come around too often and the fact we had a home fixture it made it even better,” said Kingston.

“When the draw was made awhile back, there was great buzz involved in our group chat. But I think the club really stepped up and put on a great show for everyone. The team are great lads and although young, they managed to stay totally focused all week. 

"The game was great and while unfortunately we lost, playing in front of 1,400-1,500 people in Ballea Park is something we will keep with us for a long time." 

When complimented on his performance, the former Ross County player was quick to pay tribute to the youngsters from both squads.

“When you lose a game you’re never going to be happy, but I must say though Cork City have a great U20 team this season. Especially Harvey Skieters he's quality and certainly one to watch. 

"Rhys Kelly Noonan a kid I know very well from coaching him in Crosshaven he's come a long way and it's great to see he's a great lad, it was a good battle. 

"Also one of Carrigaline United’s former players Calum Honohan was brilliant on the day and led the team superbly. The pace was great I thought it was a good game we gave it a go and unfortunately just couldn't get a goal. 

"Personally I thought I did ok but like I said when you lose a game you’re never happy I tried to do my job including throwing in a few tackles I think I had to give the striker a few sneaky digs here and there but to be fair he took them well.” 

PROUD

Kingston spent two seasons playing League of Ireland and so it was great for him to get that challenge once again.

“It’s been nearly eight years since I played League of Ireland with Cobh. Being honest I enjoyed the two years I was there we had a great team. 

"Think I played close to 50 games with the club and always looking out for results nowadays and always wish them well. Handsome Bob is a good friend of mine who I keep in touch with and I would love to see them go and win it this season.

“To play a League of Ireland side last weekend was great. Overall for the club, it was an absolutely brilliant occasion. 

"I give huge credit to the whole club, committee, bar staff and the rest for the work they did for us from providing parking, stewarding, mascots, the minute's silence and applause for an absolute gem of a man Willie Walsh, it was an absolutely brilliant night and was a real honour to lead the club out.

When we left the dressing room and saw the crowd it was unbelievable personally I just soaked that in and I believe players did also. 

"I missed out on a lot of the season having picked up a hamstring in August which kept me out of football until Christmas. I’m thrilled to be back now and looking forward to a good run for the remainder of the season. 

"I’ve had a good career to date although was unlucky with injuries along the way. Alot of my career was between Carrigaline and Crosshaven two great clubs and I've great respect for both of them.

WELCOME

“I had a season or two in Ringmahon and absolutely loved it brilliant people involved there and always made me feel welcome. I spent two seasons with Cobh Ramblers and again, two great years. In my earlier days I spent time in Torquay United as a YTS and that was thanks to my mom. 

"I must say she must have emailed every single club in the world and weirdly enough a year after she sadly passed away I actually moved across water. It was a start, a tough but brilliant experience."

He sent a season with Ross County too.

I had a great year up there when I signed my only ever professional contract something I'll always have. I played against Celtic and Rangers underage and lived a dream."

An ACL injury ended it.

"That really destroyed me. However, I’m enjoying football now and long may it continue.”