Duleek are second best in battle of promoted teams

3 2

FORMER Dundalk defender Simon Kelly made a winning start to his managerial career as victory went to Quay Celtic in this tussle of the promoted sides at a windy Clancy Park on Friday night.

The foundation for the win was laid in the first half when the home side, aided by the strong, diagonal wind, opened a 2-0 lead.

Robbie Gavigan lashed in the opening goal to the roof of the net from the edge of the visitors’ 18-yard box, and the second flew straight into the Duleek net from a corner by Andrew Duffy.

Sean Kennedy reduced the leeway before the interval for Gary Brady’s team, but former Drogheda United underage player Martin Smith restored Quay’s two-goal advantage, steering home what proved to be the winning goal, with his persistence securing the points.

He was denied by a brave save by the advancing Duleek goalkeeper Keith Carolan as he raced into the penalty box, but the ball broke back to him and he coolly placed the ball past a couple of defenders and the goalkeeper into the bottom corner of the net.

Duleek quickly replied, with Colin Woods heading ace marksman Barry Kavanagh clear, and as John Rogers was forced to leave his line the former amateur international striker deftly lobbed the ball high over him and into the empty net.

Duleek tried hard to erase the deficit, but it was Quay who had the clear-cut chances to record a more comfortable win.