OB CONSTRUCTION IFC Round 5
Naomh Padraig, Lisburn 2-5 Naomh Comhghall 0-13
Report and photos by Brian Hamill
Naomh Comhghall secured their Intermediate Championship and league status for another season after producing a determined display to defeat Naomh Padraig at Kirkwoods Park.
The Antrim side enjoyed the benefit of a strong wind in the opening half, but despite the favourable conditions they struggled to shake off a resilient Naomh Padraig outfit. Scores from Ryan Clarke, RuairiGriffin and Miles Devinekept them in touch, but it was the Lisburn side who made the greater impact on the scoreboard with two crucial goals.
An early point from Tom Buckley settled Naomh Padraig before Jude Raffertyfound the net to give the hosts an ideal start. Rafferty also added a two-point score. The contest took a dramatic turn before the interval when Naomh Padraig were reduced to 13 men. Adam Pattersonwas shown a red card and, shortly afterwards, Oisin Gormanalso received his marching orders, leaving the home side facing an uphill battle for the remainder of the game.
Conor Wardraised a second green flag early in the second half, as the Lisburn men made the most of their scoring opportunities. With the wind now against them, Naomh Comhghall showed impressive character and discipline. Playing into the breeze, they gradually wrestled control of possession and territory. Miles Devine(14) became increasingly influential in attack, landing a number of free kicks against the wind to keep the pressure on the hosts.
Scores from Ruairi Griffin, Micheal McCabeand Louis Higginshelped the Antrim men keep pressure on the home side. Despite their numerical disadvantage, Naomh Padraig continued to battle and remained within touching distance through scores from Che Smythand a wonderful long range free by Jude Rafferty.
However, Naomh Comhghall’s patience and composure eventually told. Having reeled in the deficit while facing both the elements and a determined home side, they edged in front during the closing stages before adding the insurance score required to secure a vital victory.
The final whistle confirmed a hugely significant result for Naomh Comhghall. Their reward is guaranteed Intermediate Championship football again next season. For Naomh Padraig, defeat leaves their future uncertain. The Lisburn side must now wait on results elsewhere to discover whether they can retain their Intermediate status or face relegation to the Junior Championship next year.
Naomh Padraig scorers
- Jude Rafferty 1-1 and one two-point free
- Conor Ward 1-0
- Tom Buckley 0-1
- Che Smyth 0-1
Naomh Comhghall scorers
- Ryan Clarke 0-4
- Miles Devine 0-3 and a two-point free
- Ruairi Griffin 0-2
- Micheal McCabe 0-1
- Louis Higgins 0-1
Referee: Mark O’Neill
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