Voices from Victory: Post-Match Reactions After a 4–0 win to send us into First

After a dominant 4–0 victory over MSI Pro, the unbeaten momentum continues for Sláinte Athletic. From early moments of brilliance to late-game professionalism, the performance at Milford Mill Academy Stadium showcased the growing strength of the squad. We caught up with some of Sunday’s key figures—Kristian Slaby, Mark McDonough, Isaac Ngobu, Garrett Peters, and assistant coach Gavin Mooney—to reflect on the result, the mentality inside the locker room, and the climb still ahead.

Kristian Slaby (Penalty Save, MOTM)

Second clean sheet of the MSSL season—how important was it for the group to finish the job today?

“It was crucial for us as a team. Clean sheets are always a team effort, and getting our second one of the season reinforces the progress we’re making together. It’s about everyone doing their part whether it’s pressing, blocking shots, or staying organized defensively. This is a result we can build on moving forward.”

Walk us through the penalty save—what were you thinking in that moment?

“In moments like that, you just have to stay calm and trust your instincts. I focused on the shooter’s body language and tried to anticipate his strike. Thankfully it paid off and we got to close the game out on a high note. It’s an amazing feeling to make a save like that, especially knowing it helps the team secure the win and the keep clean sheet for us.”

How has the defensive unit evolved over the past few games?

“Every game it’s important to be better than the last, and that is what we have been doing. It’s a real team effort with everyone contributing to the defensive solidity. As a goalkeeper, it gives me a lot of confidence to have such a strong foundation in front of me.”

Mark McDonough (First Goal for the Club)

Mark, your first goal in a Sláinte shirt—what was going through your mind when the ball was in the air?

“To be honest, I needed to head that home or else I would be patronized by the lads. Happy to score my first. Hopefully more to come sooner than later. Knock on wood.”

This group has emphasized depth and impact off the bench—how important is that mentality to the team’s success?

“Depth in these games is a huge advantage. Whenever I get the call to play, no matter the case, I am always trying to maximize that advantage for the team. This goes for everyone on the team as well.”

How has the competition inside the squad helped you grow into your role this season?

“Playing with a talented group like this shows your strengths and weaknesses. The natural and necessary response is to play to your strengths; that could be a mindset, tactic, or even a change in position. My role is to play my best whenever called, wherever on the pitch.”

Isaac Ngobu (4 Goals, 3 Assists – Club Goal Contribution Leader)

Four goals, three assists—you’re leading the team in both categories. What’s been clicking for you this season?

“I have just been receiving the ball in good spots from my teammates. Those guys make it easy by putting me in good positions.”

Talk us through that early goal today—the linkup with Arlie and that near-post finish.

“I wanted to take the corner but the wind was really strong. I saw there was no one on AJ so I figured we could play it short. I told him I’ll run around him as I passed him the ball.”

What’s the mentality right now inside the locker room as the unbeaten run continues?

“Right now we are taking it game by game. It doesn’t matter what we did yesterday. All focus is on this week now.”

Garrett Peters (First Full Start)

First official start today—how did it feel stepping into the lineup from the first whistle?

“It felt great. I was ready to roll from the moment I woke up Sunday morning. It’s a boost knowing the coaches and players trust me so early on in my Slainte career. There were some interesting circumstances from MSI just before kickoff but I didn’t let it phase me. No matter who showed up, three points were still on the line: as well as first place in the standings.”

What’s been the biggest adjustment coming into this squad and this level?

“To be completely honest, the hardest adjustment was trying to remember twenty five new names. I’ve got both coaches and a few others down…still working on the rest. But on a serious note, I’m thankful that my play style and tendencies translate well with the rest of the squad. Spearing the change to a more possession-based team is the biggest challenge so far.”

Where do you think this team’s ceiling is if it keeps building the way it is?

“If we remain focused and sharp, we can secure not just promotion, but that first promotion spot. Big words, I’m aware, but I see what we can do when firing on all cylinders and wouldn’t say something I didn’t fully believe myself. I fully believe in ourselves and what we do here.”

Assistant Coach Gavin Mooney

Another big result—how would you describe the team’s growth over the first four matches?

“The squad started the season hot. The new faces have quickly meshed with the group and several have become mainstays in the starting eleven/game day roster. Coming back from a 2-0 deficit on Wednesday and winning 4-0 on Sunday shows how much different the team is compared to just one year ago. That being said, there is still room for growth in our game.”

The group looked ruthless but composed today—what were the keys from the coaching staff’s point of view?

“I would’ve liked to have seen more. Today’s circumstances were not ideal and it forced a drop in mentality. Despite winning, we started the game frantic on the ball and lethargic without. I’ll chalk it up to Easter weekend and inconsistent schedules. As usual, the boys put it together, calmed the game down and cruised to a 4-0 victory; something we weren’t able to do last year.”

How do you keep the squad sharp and focused with bigger challenges coming fast, like Peru united next weekend?

“This week is important for the minds and bodies of the squad. Injuries to Evan and Andres brought some changes to recent lineups, so recovery will be crucial. Our games on Wednesday for BCRP will keep the squad focused. The staff will likely throw in a much needed tactical discussion/reminder in the group chat after some comments received this past game. Otherwise, the boys do a pretty good job of maintaining focus on their own.”

Stay tuned for more interviews, match analysis, and coverage as the Spring 2025 MSSL campaign continues.