New regime off to winning start thanks to an old hand Kerrykeel 2 – 3 Rathmullan Celtic Rathmullan somehow managed to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat at Rabs Park this evening as they got the better of Kerrykeel in an entertaining local derby. The home side will be wondering how they left the game with nothing having for long spells looked to have the measure of the Seasiders during a dominant second half spell. Eventually it was numbers that told, with Rathmullan sending on some key replacements from the bench. With limited numbers on the night, 71 Club boss Hughie Walsh admirably filled the position between the sticks and when he has a full squad at his disposal in the league, Kerrykeel look well positioned to challenge for honours in Division 1 this season. For Rathmullan, Barry Mooney, Lenny Boyce and Ryan McCleary made their debuts in tonight’s game and all three can be pleased with their contributions. The visitors started well, with Lenny getting on the end of a pass from Eoin Sheridan and racing clear of the home defence only to fire narrowly wide of the target from a tight angle. At the other end, Ian Strain was kept on his toes as he turned away a stinging shot from marauding centre back Niall Doherty. The Celts stole ahead right on half time after a neat pass from Lenny allowed Eoin Sheridan release Dara Patton. The Norwegian marksman saw his initial effort brilliantly saved by the advancing Walsh but following something of a scramble, Dara poked the ball home from a yard out at around the fourth attempt. Kerrykeel responded strongly to the setback after the break with Mark Friel asserting control over the middle sector alongside Cathal Martin. Following a softish free-kick award, Fergus Callaghan’s right-footed effort crept past Strain to level the game up at 1-1. It was double trouble from dead balls minutes later as Sparky unleashed an unstoppable 30-yard effort into the top corner to put the hosts ahead. With Rathmullan struggling to get back on terms, Niall Doherty and former manager Mark Curran were summoned from the bench. Mush may not have played a first team game in a few seasons, but with his very first touch he smashed the ball home from 12-yards in the style that characterised his career. You don’t have to teach an old dog new tricks. With momentum behind them and time running out, Rathmullan pushed for the winner as the home team visibly tired. It duly arrived in stoppage time as Niall Doc swung over a sumptuous left-footed cross (proving that you can teach an old dog a new trick!) onto the head of Dara Patton who guided the ball back across goal into the corner of the net to seal all three points. A good first outing then for this new Rathmullan team once again showing composure in adversity to clam a win from a losing position - a decent trait to have. Next up is Bonagee at Dry Arch Park on Sunday, 2pm kick off.
Posted on: Wed, 14 Aug 2013 22:04:29 +0000
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