13.1.19
Edenderry 1, Spartak 3
Spartak struck early with a goal of the season contender. In a sweeping move, Kevin Cunningham sent Ger Byrne away on the right, and his cross was met first time on the edge of the box by Neil McGowan, whose venomous shot to the corner left the keeper helpless.
For most of the remainder of the first half, Edenderry were on top, and equalised, as well as discomfiting the Sky Blue defence. Blocks from Ian Harmon and a goal line clearance from Tom O’Driscoll kept the home team from adding to the score. In breaks, Cian Stenson hit the bar, and then had a good header form Kevin Cunningham’s cross clawed away by the keeper, while Niall Hanratty was just wide with a header.
It was a different story at the start of the second half, as Spartak upped the tempo. Cian Stenson again brought two good saves from the keeper, while Ger Byrne fired over from close range. Niall Hanratty was narrowly over from distance after spotting the keeper off his line.
Ger Byrne then exchanged passes with Cian Stenson before firing in low to put Spartak ahead.
The home keeper unfortunately collided with Cian Stenson and had to retire injured. (He was fine after the game). Edenderry were unperturbed by this setback and sought the equaliser. Twice they seemed to have achieved their aim, but marvellous clearances by Ian Harmon and Tom O’Driscoll prevented them.
Tom O’Driscoll and Cian Stenson combined to allow Owen Marron to get the clinching score.
A satisfying win.
From Report
Jason Northey 6 Kevin Cunningham 8 Tom O’Driscoll 8 Steve Grier 7 Ian Harmon 8 Stuart Love 6 Neil McGowan 8 Niall Hanratty 6 Jimmy Dawson 6 Ger Byrne 7 Cian Stenson 7
Subs: Owen Marron 7 Dave Browne 6 Dave O’Kelly 6
