23.4.18
Spartak 2, Mid Sutton/Sportslink 1
A somewhat fortunate win, in that both goals came from big Mid Sutton errors.
Nonetheless, Spartak came from behind at the interval to win. The visitors scored after a smart move and cross found the Sky Blues defence wanting. Up front Mick Leslie missed a couple of presentable chances in a tight first half.
Spartak found their rythm in the second period; Mikey Ryan and Mick Leslie combined to send Ciaran Keane in with a chance, he turned inside and clipped the top of the bar with his effort. Then the equaliser came after a scramble, during which any of Mikey Ryan , Mick Leslie or Leo Behan might have scored. All missed the opportunity until a visiting defender, attempting to clear, smashed the ball against Mick Leslie, and the ball looped high to the net over a helpless custodian. Mick was immediately in twitter contact with Harry Kane, who advised him to claim the goal.
Worse was to follow for the visitors. Sean Doyle’s cunningly flighted free kick was headed to his own net by a defender, who was under pressure from Kevin Murphy’s run. 2-1.
Spartak now opened up, buoyed by the goals, and played some nice football. Cian Stenson added a “third” but was ruled offside, and Ciaran Keane had a clear one on one chance, but shot at the keeper.
Spartak’ defence, ably marshalled by Sean Doyle, and with Owen McCormack an assured deputy for the injured Greg Byrne between the posts, held firm to clinch the win.
Form Report
Owen McCormack 8 Chris Hogan 6 Cian Stenson 7 Sean Doyle 8 Kevin Murphy 7 Jason Kelly 7 Shane McInerney 6 Ciaran Keane 6 Leo Behan 6 Tom O’Driscoll 6 Mick Leslie 6
Subs: Mikey Ryan 6 Conor Canavan 6 Gary Murphy 6
