Match Report - CLONASLEE - 18 Sep 2021

CCFL DIVISION 1

Mullery Secures A Point With Late Equaliser

Banagher United AFC 1; Clonaslee United 1

Banagher had to wait a long time to play their 1st game in Division 1 but it was great to see a good game of football that was well contested by both sides. The last time Banagher played in this Division was 98/99 and its great to be back. The home side came away with a well deserved point when it looked for a long time they wouldn't get that goal that they deserved for their efforts. The game started with a minute's silence in memory of the the father of the Clonaslee manager, may he R.I.P. Banagher dominated this game for large periods but poor finishing let them down on occasions. The home side were 1st to make an effort on goal when Colm Bennett produced a good effort on goal. Next to test the keeper was Banagher stalwart Kevin Madden who came close to opening the scoring. Nathan Claffey battled hard to try and make something happen up front as did Jack Regan who ran the line waiting for that vital pass to release him in on goal. For all their possession, Banagher suffered a sucker punch on 30 minutes when loose marking allowed Clonaslee to have a shot which hit the post and rolled across in to the back of the net. Banagher fought back with Stephen Clancy using his battling qualities he made a run down the right and his inviting pass was just waiting for an incoming Banagher forward to slot home and the opportunity for an equaliser was lost. Banagher had numerous chances before half time but the Clonaslee keeper kept them at bay. In the second half Banagher made some changes bringing on James Delaney, Dylan Kidney and Michael Clear to give the home side an extra push for that equaliser. Nathan Claffey had an opportunity but blasted wide from close range, along with Jack Regan whose shot hit the bottom of the post. But the home side did not give up and were duly rewarded when Jack Regan's run down the right and his cross was met by the incoming Graham Mullery who slotted home with 5 minutes left. Banagher had a valid claim for a penalty just on full time but the shouts from both players and the sideline were ignored by the ref. Im sure the players probably feel they should have won the game based on overall p;ossession but it was a good display for their 1st game in this division. As they say you can only build on this performance and improve.