The reserves got their season of to a losing start at Cahore playing fields getting beaten 2-0 by a very strong Dungiven side. It was a game of very few chances as both defences held up strong.
The reserves got of to a good start putting Dungiven under pressure right from the off. However after the early exchanges the 1st half panned out to be a very even affair. Stephen Caulfield had a couple of decent chances but failed to convert them, just before half time Dungiven pounced, scoring their only chance of the 1st half with a brilliant volley.
The Reserves had a chance for an instant reply but J.P McGuigan blasted over when only 6 yards out. The 2nd half was mainly draperstown but we never really troubled Dungiven, again a couple of half chances and the Dungiven keeper made two good saves from JP & Conor McKenna.
As in the 1st half Dungiven hit us with a sucker punch, Eddie Dunne scoring with a well taken free kick in what turned out to be their only shot on target in the 2nd half.
All in all it was a decent performance and there where a few positives. Maurice McGuigan and Paddy Mallon look a good combination at the back, Raymond Kennedy played well in the middle of the park and Conor McKenna proved a good option up front.
Quote from Martin McGuigan (Team Manager) “Not that its an excuse but Dungiven fielded four 1st teamers, so if we can play like that against strong opposition week in week out then we will have a good season”
Team:
Mark O’Kane, Adrian McGuigan, Paddy Mallon, Maurice McGuigan, Paul Gormley, David Cushenan, Raymond Kennedy, Martin McGuigan, J.P McGuigan, Stephen Caulfield, Conor McKenna
Subs: John Gilmore
