McGonagle brace sees Swifts edge derby against Mourne Celtic
Sion Swifts claimed the derby bragging rights after a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Mourne Celtic in an entertaining encounter at the Glebe pitch on Saturday morning, with Daire McGonagle scoring both goals for the Swifts.
Saturday Morning League
Mourne Celtic....1
Sion Swifts....2
SION Swifts claimed the derby bragging rights after a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Mourne Celtic in an entertaining encounter at the Glebe pitch on Saturday morning.
Daire McGonagle proved to be the difference between the sides, scoring both goals for the Swifts to secure all three points - and the local bragging rights.
Swifts went into the half-time break with a 2-0 advantage, leaving the Mourne men with an uphill battle in the second half.
The hosts came out with renewed energy and determination, looking to get back into the contest.
Their efforts were rewarded when Kalvin Wilders produced a well-taken free kick to reduce the deficit.
The game took another twist when Mourne were reduced to ten men following the dismissal of centre-back Thomas McCallion with around 20 minutes of the game remaining.
Mourne continued to push forward in search of an equaliser and created a number of opportunities late on but the Swifts defence were resolute.
The Man of the Match was awarded to Mourne Celtic's Patrick Kearney.
Mourne are back at home on Saturday when they entertain Foyle at Glebe, while Swifts travel to Prehen to face Galliagh Argyle.
Elsewhere, Glebe United will take on Dungiven Celtic at Balyguddinn.