2.12.12
Spartak 3, Dundrum 0
A fine team performance on a cold and damp morning in Marlay with much to admire – apart from the time keeping!
Goals from Neil McGowan, Niall Hanratty and Steve Walsh sent Dundrum, who were in third place at kick off, home empty handed.
Some neat approach play by Dave Thomson, Aodhan McCahill and Steve Walsh gave Neil McGowan the chance to open the scoring with his right footed shot from 20 yards just too high for the keeper.
Spartak played some bright football in a tight contest and created chances for Steve Walsh, who saw his free saved, and Dave Thomson, who fired over.
More than anything, this game was a triumph for hard work and while Derek Ruxton epitomised the work ethic, his midfield colleagues toiled alongside to great effect. Dave Thomson had a fine outing while Niall Hanratty came strongly into the picture as the game wore on. The guile of Steve Walsh and Neil McGowan provided excellent support for frontman Conor Maguire, who did not score but nonetheless had one of his best days in Sky Blue.
After the interval a lapse in concentration by Dave Browne allowed the forward in, but he fired straight into the grateful arms of Steve Grier, deputising capably in goal. Dundrum began to press but could not find the final touch and Spartak were restricted to break outs.
Aodhan McCahill was continually capable of playing the out ball to relieve defensive pressure while big brother Seamus marshalled the defence and provided good distribution. Paul Kinsella was tigerish as he returns to form and fitness while Dave Browne won many head to head battles.
On the hour mark a throw in by Paul Kinsella was neatly controlled on his chest by Conor Maguire with his back to goal; he squeezed a pass through the crowded area where Niall Hanratty pounced gleefully to slot the ball into the corner. 2-0.
In the last minute a fine run by Conor Maguire and pass by Neil McGowan saw Steve Walsh finish insouciantly from the edge of the box to cap a fine morning’s work.
A highly satisfying team performance.
Form Report
Grier 7 Kinsella 7 A McCahill 8 S McCahill 8 Browne 7 Ruxton 8 McGowan 8 Thomson 7 Hanratty 7 Maguire 9 Walsh 8 O’Keeffe