Drogheda United 1-1 Shelbourne

Shels fail to pull a 'Malta'

The two games played on Wednesday last had a lot on common. For a start, both were classical 'games of two halves'. In the International, Ireland dominated the first half, but struggled in the second, suffering from a barrage of attacks from their opponents. In Malta, under the Mediterranean sun, Ireland stayed solid and survived the drama. In the not-so-warm Co. Louth, Shels buckled under the pressure and crashed out of the League Cup.

As has been the story with most Shels matches so far this season, the game opened promisingly for the Real Reds. They looked the better team, creative and hungry. Declan Geoghegan and Tommy Byrne combined excellently on the left flank, Fenlon was efficient in centre mid and Geoghegan and Powell up front looked promising. In the 22nd minute Shels' paitient passing paid off. Following a mix-up in the Drogheda box, Tommy Byrne fired home. It was no less than Tommy deserved, for he had been excellent on the left wing. For the remainder of the first half, Shels continued to dominate. Despite this pressure, another goal did not arrive. John Powell could have been a little more eager to pass up front, and Powell and Geoghegan need more time to gel together into a striking partnership. They will have time, as Gary Haylock is both injured and suspended in the coming weeks.

In the International, Ireland suffered from fatigue. Determination, luck and a good goalkeeping display kept them afloat. It was the opposite for Shels. Drogheda showed impressive determination and commitment to fight back into the game, and had their fair share of the lucky breaks. Unlike Alan Kelly, who produced some stunning saves to keep Ireland in the match, Shels keeper Steve Williams made two uncharacteristic blunders that cost Shels the game.

Around 20 minutes from time, a firm shot bounced off his chest to the awaiting Derek Thornton who made no mistake. Later, Williams mishandled a cross from Alan Murphy and John Butler nipped in to score and book The Drogs a reasonably deserved place in the next round.

Comment: The Soup in United Park is the worst so far this season, a combination of Ox-tail powder and a strange viscous liquid probably dredged up from the bottom of the Boyne. All for £1, twice the price of a cup in the Reds Shop in Tolka Park.

Red Bull was not at the match, there was talk of him heading to Malta. Whether he did or not I do not yet know, but hopefully he will be in Ballybofey for Saturdays game.

 

Fintan O'Dowd '99