Campion saves Maguire’s blushes as Cork hit back

STRIKER Achille Campion came off the bench to inspire Cork City to a come-from-behind victory at the Showgrounds last night.

The Frenchman claimed his first goal for Cork by tapping home from close range against his former club to cancel out Kieran Sadlier’s opener for the home side.

Kevin O’Connor’s late corner kick flew past everyone and into the net to seal a victory that takes Cork 16 points clear at the top.

And they had to do it despite Seanie Maguire missing from the spot in Sligo for the second year in a row as Cork struggled initially to peg Rovers back.

Former Bit O’ Red midfielder Jimmy Keohane had a great chance in the second minute when he found himself free from top-scorer Maguire’s cross into the area, but he could only direct his effort straight at Rovers keeper Micheál Schlingermann.

And the home side’s early endeavour was rewarded midway through the first half when Bennett caught Liam Martin in the box, and the in-form Sadlier stepped up to send Mark McNulty the wrong way from the spot.

The visitors had a great chance to get back in the tie ten minutes into the second half when Sheppard was fouled by Kyle Callan-McFadden, but Maguire’s effort flashed the wrong side of the post.

Cork boss John Caulfield responded by introducing Campion off the bench, and the forward tapped into an empty net just three minutes after his introduction as Johnny Dunleavy’s effort was palmed into his path.

The league leaders went in front with just nine minutes remaining when O’Connor’s corner deceived everyone as Cork claimed yet another three points and extended their unbeaten run to 15 matches.