'˜Cloney firsts earn draw on tough away trip

Donacloney Firsts faced a tough away trip to Goodyear on Saturday past, made all the more difficult with six first team regulars missing from the starting line-up.

However, the difficult circumstances made coming away with a point after a 3-3 draw all the more satisfying.

The ‘Cloney started well, limiting Goodyear’s chances, however Goodyear broke the deadlock as their winger cut inside and hit an unstoppable strike from 30 yards.

They doubled their lead with a free kick in a dangerous position leaving Derek Curran in the Donacloney goal no chance.

‘Cloney were never out of the game though and played some good football with David Acheson getting himself free regularly and always looking composed on the ball, in what was his first start for the club.

Errol Curran’s side got themselves on the scoresheet when a pinpoint corner from Chris Shields was attacked by captain Damien Higgins who headed past the Goodyear ‘keeper and covering defenders.

Goodyear made it 3-1 with some good play by their right sided midfielder who fired in a shot which Curran did well to parry, however the rebound was latched onto by a Goodyear forward who showed composure to slot home under pressure from ‘Cloney defenders.

Cloney showed great spirit to take the game to Goodyear and Acheson put Kane Croft through, who beat the offside trap and finished calmly.

The game was tied at 3-3 when another good Shields delivery was attacked and when Goodyear couldn’t clear the danger, Gary Knox was on hand to head into the net.

Donacloney team; Derek Curran, Jason Stokes, Davy Sterritt, Damien Higgins, Tim Carson, Danny Read, David Acheson, Gary Knox, Andrew Cairns, Kane Croft, Chris Shields.

Subs; Peter Wylie (replaced Acheson), Johnny Brown (replaced Shields), Dave Watterson (not used).