Powerful St Mary’s prove too strong for Coolaney/ Mullinabreena
AN intriguing match up was in place when future championship group rivals Coolaney/Mullinabreena met at Kent Park.
What followed was a very explosive start.
With less than one minute on the clock, Mary’s cut through their opponent’s defense and was awarded a penalty.
The spot kick was excellently saved however, by Eoin McDonagh.
Mary’s kept up their blistering start, with the aid of very strong wind, leaped to a huge lead in the first quarter, with goals coming courtesy of Stephen Coen and Kyle Cawley.
In the same period the South Sligo men were dealt a blow with full back Aidan Coleman being taken off due to a head injury.
The second quarter was more of the same, as Coolaney/Mullina- breena pushed to try and close the gap.
Yet the Mary’s men were irresistible with their fast paced style of play complimenting the conditions.
As the half drew to a close it seemed as though they were out of sight, with the score at 4:07 to 0:02.
The weather really showed it’s influence on the game in the second half.
With Coolaney/Mullinabreena fighting back due to the resilence of players such as Declan McCormack and Criostoir Davey, aswell as newcomer Gavin Gorman. Ultimately, it was not enough. Mary’s, led by the wily Mark Breheny kept the scoreboard ticking over and wasn’t ever in any danger of losing their lead.
Looking forward, the Sligo Town men can be delighted with their showing.
Coolaney/Mullinabreena can show pride in their second half performance, and left to rue their slow start.