Cloney hold league leaders

DONACLONEY entertained Glenavy on Saturday past.

They knew that this would be a tough encounter with Glenavy flying high at the top of the table.

Glenavy started the game strongly with the advantage of a wind in their backs. They exerted plenty of pressure on the Cloney rearguard of Watson, Harrison, Woods and McKinley.

Cloney stood firm under a lot of pressure with McKinley notably heading clear of his own goal line when a goal looked more likely with Haire out of position. The half continued with Glenavy dominance, and Cloney relying on counter attacks.

Their best chance of the half was a Knox header from a Brooker corner that went the wrong side of the post, while the defence and midfield battled hard to remain parity until the half.

Glenavy again come out strong in the second half but Wells playing up front never gave their defence any respite. In fact it was Cloney who took the lead when Willis headed back a poor goal kick and Knox reacted quickest to lob the Glenavy stopper from 25 yards.

Cloney’s cause seemed to improve whenever Glenavy were reduced to 10 men for an elbow on McKinley. Cloney continued to push but could not find a way through. While the big strong physical direct play of Glenavy continued to ask questions.

Watson saw a free kick from 30 yards narrowly go over and Cloney were made to pay as Glenavy grabbed the equaliser with 10 minutes left on the clock.

Fears seemed to be compounded for Cloney when Glenavy then scored in injury time to take the lead. Credit must go to the Cloney who pushed everyone forward to try and get some reward.

It was the experienced Lance Watson who become the hero when Glenavy failed to clear their lines, he volleyed home an unstoppable volley from 15 yards for a dramatic finish.

It was a spirited fighting display by the Cloney team with everyone putting in a tough shift, with Watson edging it for man of the match.

- Donacloney FC are running ‘A Night of the Riots’ in Donacloney Legion this Saturday night at 8pm. This is similar to the familiar Night of the Races with a fun twist. It will be followed by a disco and karaoke with free admission.