Lots of action in Astro League Cup open
CHAMPIONSHIP side GSS defeated Premier division Forrest Celtic progressing to the final four in the Sligo Rovers Astro League Open Cup.
This came as a shock to some; however both sides have been experiencing different fortunes in their respective league divisions.
GSS are battling it out for the title in the championship division, while Forrest Celtic have been somewhat struggling in the premier division to date.
John Farrell opened the scoring for his Forrest side, which was then cancelled out by a wonderful strike from Terry Farrelly.
This was his second goal in as many games from the centre half, who prior to that had not scored a single goal all season.
GSS were set to march into the final four as Mick Kelly gave them a 2- 1 lead shortly after.
The game seemed to be wrapped up, however 10 minutes from time, Harry Tymon stepped up to make it 2- 2 to force a penalty shoot out.
From there, GSS held their nerve and converted all of their penalties to seal their place in the final four, winning 4- 2 on penalties.
Sheffield Thursday and the Adelaide Casino played out a 2- 2 draw on Wednesday night, in what was just as an exciting game as Tuesday’s one.
A penalty shootout was needed once again, this time the favourites Sheffield Thursday lived up to their expectations, by winning 5- 4 on penalties.
Sheffield Thursday have been the surprise package of the season thus far sitting top of the premier division, and reaching the last four of the open cup is yet another achievement in which they can be proud of. For the Adelaide Casino, it’s been a case of so near yet so far all season, dominating games at times but unable to find the back of the net.
They will be eager to see out the rest of the season in a positive manner, as they aim to maintain the Emmett O’Connor memorial cup which they won last year.
Ballyshannon defeated the Sally Gardens by 2- 1, to book their place in this week’s semi final draw.
This a battle of two giants, who sit second and third in the premier division respectively.
Ballyshannon lead 1- 0 at halt- time and the second half proved just as tight. In truth this game could of went either way, but the Donegal men were more clinical and as a result are in the final four of the open cup for 2017.
The final quarter final of the week also went to a penalty shoot out as Strand Celtic and EJ’s battled out a frantic 1- 1 draw.
EJ’s held their nerve in the shootout and squeezed through 5- 4.
This week sees a return to league action, and the fixtures are as follows: Tuesday at 9pm Sheffield Thursday vs EJS.
Wednesday at 8pm Ballyshannon vs Sally Gardens .
Wednesday at 9pm GSS vs Cash Savers.
Friday at 8pm Adelaide Casino vs The Belfry.
Friday at 9pm Strand Celtic vs Forrest Celtic