North End gain revenge with win over Crettyard FAI JUNIOR CUP
NORTH END United advanced to the fourth round of the FAI Junior Cup after a 2-1 triumph over Crettyard United in Curracloe on Sunday.
Crettyard had knocked the Sky Blues out on penalties last season, so they knew they were in for a tough test, and so it proved.
Jason Murphy fired the Wexford town outfit in front on 18 minutes with a spectacular 25-yard half-volley, and Decky Downes missed a good chance to double the advantage moments later.
It was a let-off for Crettyard and they capitalised on their good fortune by plundering an equaliser just before the half hour mark.
However, North End conjured up a winning goal with 20 minutes remaining when Lee Smith played a good ball through to Robin Dempsey, who squared to Kyle Dempsey and he swept the ball to the net.
Danny Fitzpatrick then forced a fine save out of the Crettyard goalkeeper, before the visitors threw the kitchen sink at North End to try to force an equaliser.
However, the Sky Blues defence coped admirably with the bombardment and they booked their place in the next round.
In an all-Wexford clash, Corach Ramblers beat Premier Division high-flyers Gorey Rangers 4-2 on penalties after a thrilling 3-3 draw.
Niall Harney (two) and Gareth McCurtin got the goals for the winners, with Adam Territt (two) and Stephen Maloney replying for the north county side.
Gorey Celtic recorded a good 2-0 win over Carlow’s New Oak Boys, with Thomas Cloke hitting the back of the net in the first-half and Niall Keys doubling their advantage after the interval.
Tombrack United fought back from 2-0 down at the break to draw level against Naas United, but their efforts proved to be in vain as they were beaten by a late penalty.
Eoin Carton and Rory Newe got the goals for the Wexford side.