22.11.13
Larkview 3, Spartak 2
Spartak almost snatched an unlikely victory against the runaway league leaders on a freezing Friday night in Larkview.
The talking points mostly relate to the last 8 minutes, when Spartak were, up to then, resolutely defending a 2-0 half time lead.
On 82 minutes, Adam Doran , immense in goal in the absence of Jason Northey, tried to take a quick free but slipped and gifted the home forward a goal. Much worse was to follow as the ref, well in control up to that point, began awarding a string of free kicks the home side’s way; Stephen Barr for once missed the header from one such free and a home forward had lots of time at the far post to equalise; another free and the home centre half rose to nod home the winner.
A sickening end to a wonderful 80 minutes from Spartak, who defended with discipline, attacked with impunity and made the most of their chances. In truth until the unfortunate Doran error, Larkview had largely run out of ideas.
Against the run of play Fergus Burke played in Steve Walsh on 40 minutes to secure the lead; on the stroke of half time Stephen Barr and Steve Walsh played in Keith Kelly; without waiting to run on he arrowed a fine volley to make it 2-0.
Just after half time Barr nodded just wide from a Niall Hanratty free kick.
While the form is improving, points are elusive despite great efforts.
Form Report
Adam Doran 8 Dave Browne 6 Paul Kinsella 8 Martin Costello 8 Stephen Barr 9 Fergus Burke 8 Neil McGowan 7 Niall Hanratty 7 Derek Ruxton 7 Keith Kelly 7 Steve Walsh 8 Lee Malone 5 Dave O Kelly 5
Subs: Lee Malone 5 Dave O Kelly 5
