Lusk 1 SDFC 4
After the disappointment of a wasted trip to Lusk last week with a no show from the referee, the over 35’s made the same journey again this Saturday and recorded an impressive victory.
From the start Spartak showed a strong competitive edge and immediately took the game to the opposition. Early shots from Frank McNamee, Ken Byrne and a good running and pressure game from the front two of Rory Campell and Jason Doyle signaled the intent in the away side. Chris Andrews made a couple of excellent runs and caused a lot of problems early on. Spartak had further chances when Shay McClafferty and Tom Maher went for the same ball at the back post and Ken Byrne’s shot brought an excellent save from the keeper.
For most of the first half Spartak were on top but could not convert the possession into a goal. Lusk did look dangerous on the break but their attacks were comfortably dealt with by the back four line up of Gerry Doran, Tom Maher, Brian Stafford and Paul McGrath. The final chance of the half fell to Frank McNamee who volleyed over.
Right from the second half kick-off Spartak again laid down a marker with Ray Grady having a powerful shot just over. Gerry Doran started numerous passing movements down the left wing and Paul McGrath and Colm Coffey were combining neatly on the right. The deadlock was finally broken on 50 minutes when a clever interchange between Rory Campbell and Ray Grady put the latter through to finish with a low shot under the keeper. Ray was also the instigator of the second goal a few minutes later when after a great run along the end line he pulled the ball back for Paul Thormley to blast a shot was was saved by the centre half’s outstretched hand. A straight red was issued and Gerry Doran made no mistake from the spot kick.
Lusk were handed a lifeline with 20 to go when a harmless shot spun out of Jimmy Browne’s grasp for an easy tap in goal. Symptomatic of the attitude on the day Spartak bounced right back a few minutes later when Paul Thormley turned and placed a shot into the bottom left hand corner. The scoring was completed when Ray Grady broke down the left and played a great cross for Paul Thormley to notch his second of the game.
In fairness to Lusk they continued to battle until the end and it required good defensive work from the back four and midfielders to prevent any further scoring.
Overall a very satisfying win that was fully deserved given the positive and competitive attitude on the day.
The spartak panel was Jimmy Browne, Brian Stafford, Paul McGrath, Shay McClafferty, Colm Coffey, Paul Thormley, Frank McNamee, Rory Campbell, Ray Grady, Jason Doyle, Tom Maher, Gerry Doran, Ken Byrne, Chris Andrews.
