ACFL Division 3
St. Malachy’s 4-12 St. Agnes 1-9
A strong second half performance from David Birt’s St Malachy’s proved the answer as the men from the Markets secured the spoils of victory and what may prove to be a vital couple of points at the expense of the Aggies on Friday evening.
The home side found their visitors tough adversaries in the opening period which proved a close affair with only a point between the sides at the end of the first half.
An early goal from the Mal’s McManus and points delivered by CJ Vernon, who was to go on to raise a half dozen in the contest, Millar and Devine ensured a narrow advantage at the half way juncture.
The Aggies were certainly well in contention at the half way stage with the Markets men just 1-06 to 1-05 in front but the second half was to provide a different outcome.
The home side really nipped quickly away from the start traps in the second period and they were rewarded when Maneely nipped through to find the net after a couple of minutes following an excellent build-up.
St. Malachy’s really had the bit between their teeth as the second half progressed and after the accurate Vernon added back to back points Maneely raced through the visitor’s rear guard to add a second goal as his side took control.
With their side on top the home side’s management looked to the bench to give game time and it paid dividends as replacement McBride unleashed a thunderous delivery to the back of the net.
St Agnes fought to the end but despite their best efforts the home side’s defence stood firm and at the long whistle St Malachy’s crossed the finishing impressive 12 point winners.
St Malachy’s: S Turley, C Connolly, C Corr, S O’ Neill, D Casey, D Quinn, P Hanna (0-01), c Vernon (0-06), C Jordan (0-01), G Mc Manus (1-00), R Maneely (2-00), G Rice, P Turley, P Devine (0-02),P Millar (0-02)
Subs
F Mc Bride (1-00) for P Devine