Adam’s late goal helps to send Dromore into the semis

They did it thanks to a thrilling 2-1 victory over Dungannon Under 13s, the winner coming with just five minutes left on the clock as Adam netted a follow-up to set up a semi-final tie against Rathfriland at Cheney Park at 11.15am next Saturday.

With not much to choose between the two teams in the league, Dromore knew this was going to be a tight game and so it proved.

Dungannon were the first to score after five minutes through a defensive blunder. The ball was not easy to play with the swirling wind and Dromore found the conditions difficult first half playing against it.

Karl was the first to have sight on goal for Dromore but shot wide. Josh, who was captain for the day, was kicking really well into a stiff wind. The defence of Joel, Patrick, Nathan and Liam (replaced by Jason) were outstanding.

The next major incident played a big part in the game. Briggs beat the defensive line with a great run, the Dungannon keeper came out of his area and brought Briggs down. As he was the last defender, the referee had to send him off. Briggs had to come off with the injury. To be fair, Dungannon continued to be a threat even with 10 men.

The midfield of Adam, Luke, Morgan and Briggs battled well to break down a good passing game from Dungannon. The break-through soon arrived for Dromore, when good pressure high up the pitch forced a Dungannon player to cross the ball right across his goal.

Adam read the curl of the ball and met it first time. The ball went into the left hand side of the goal. It was great to have Adam back after six weeks out with an injury and now he was on the score-sheet.

Josh’s kicking from hand was causing all sorts of trouble in the second half and both Karl and Euan had opportunities to score with their heads.

Euan also found himself unmarked at the edge of the box and hit a fierce left footed shot just over the bar.

Dungannon’s number seven and 11 were good ball carriers and Josh made three good saves down at their feet. Jason was solid at right back and stood up against the pressure.

Joel made some outstanding tackles, one a very important one just inside the box.

The winning goal came five minutes from the end when Karl crossed the ball and the Dungannon keeper parried but Adam was on hand to score.

Dromore battled well against a strong team on Saturday and deserved the win.