26.2.23
Spartak 4, SVS fc 0
A shaky start saw a couple of errors in the Sky Blue defence which led to clear scoring opportunities for the visitors.
With the back four riding their luck , it was left to Craig Howard, the Spartak netminder, to make a couple of fine saves.
Fergus Flynn had a chance from close range, but could not get the ball out from his feet, and when he did the effort was blocked. A crashing header from Steve Grier saw Spartak go one up, and this was quickly followed by number two. Dave Power’s assist saw Owen Marron head home.
Encouraged by this, Spartak then had a fine spell of play but no further goals ensued. Neil McGowan’s effort from a narrow angle was cleared on the line, Owen Marron’s effort was clawed away by the visiting goalkeeper.
Just on half time Owen Marron sustained a head injury when through on goal which might have brought a sanction on the last defender.
Once again at the start of the second period an error gave SVS a fine chance which was fired wide.
Duly patched up, the mercurial Marron resumed in the second half long enough to have a hand in two more goals. The third was tapped in from close range by Fergus Flynn after a scramble, and the final score was started by Owen Marron who fed Dave Power. Dave’s cross was volleyed in by Neil McGowan .
Spartak’s midfield was a key element in the win, with skipper Stu Love leading the way in making many interceptions, blocks and tackles, aided and abetted in the engine room by Ciaran Brady.
SVS will reflect on the chances they had at key moments, but Spartak took a welcome three points.
Form Report
Craig Howard 8 Chris Hogan 7 Kevin Cunningham 7 Steve Grier 8 Niall Lennon 7 Stuart Love 8 Neil McGowan 8 Ciaran Brady 8 Fergus Flynn 7 Dave Power 8 Owen Marron 8
Subs: Mick Leslie 6 Ian Harmon 6 Denis Teeling 6
