Albion kicked off pre-season with an impressive 2-1 away victory over West Cork Premier outfit Clonakilty AFC. A very different looking Albion side took to the field in Inchydonny and were first to soak up early pressure from the hosts. Clon making some nice passing moves trying to split the defence. Clons french star (no idea what his name was) looked to be their danger man attempting one or two shots on goal but none on target. Albion broke the deadlock when Noel Twomey scred directly from a corner kick. The goal came against the run of play, but Clon equalised within a minute when a fine ball over the top caught out Jamie Daly at centre half, the striker finishing past Deccy low to the left. Albion upped their game for the last 15 mins of the first half. 1-1 half time.

Expecting more pressure in the second half, Albion kept their more defensive shape. However, it was the Courcey lads applying much of the pressure. They went 2-1 up after a mix up at the back for Clon allowed Martin El-Sahens blatant goal hanging to pay off with a very simple, actually – extremely simple, tap in. He was in the right place at the right time, we will give him that!! More pressure was applied from Albion, with Dave O’Hare hitting the bar after some great build up play from Dan Wise & Rob. Rob then hit the post from a fantastic volley after Japs hit a perfect cross to him. Dave O’Hare hit the post once more with a low driven shot after Martin R laid the ball into him. Noel Twomey made the Clon keeper work with a good save, a half volley from Twomey caused all sorts of panic at the back.

Albion hung on for a decent victory. Final score 2-1.

Team: Deccy, Dan C, James, Darren, Jamie, Martin, Japs, Noel, Rob, Martin El, Craig. Subs: Dan W, Dave O’H.

Scorers: Noel 11′, Martin El ’55.