Cruel Paul Dickson own goal seals victory for Carrick Rangers

Two Conor McCloskey goals put the home side firmly in the driving seat but Gary Smyth’s men hit back with a Davy Rainey penalty and a superb strike from Scott Davidson.

But there was to be a cruel twist right at the death as right-back Dickson turned the ball into his own net, despite keeper Michael Dougherty’s best attempt to keep it out.

It was night when McCloskey shone for the Gers, producing his best display and his first two goals of the season. Handed the captain’s armband for the evening, he got the ball rolling on 15 minutes heading home Joe McNeill’s corner at the near post.

Carrick doubled their advantage two minutes into the second half when McCloskey’s cross from the right deceived everyone and nestled in the net after the ball had struck the far post.

The Welders were given a way back into the tie when Andrew Doyle was adjudged to have fouled Josh Cahoon just inside the box. Up stepped substitute Rainey who sent Keenan the wrong way.

Davidson then brought the Welders level with a superb strike from the edge of the area.

But there was a huge sting in the tail for the East Belfast outfit when Dickson turned the ball into his own net.

Carrick Rangers: Keenan, Kane, Traynor, Taggart, Doyle, McNeill, McCaul, Surgenor, McCloskey (c), Miskimmin (Chines 75), Browne (Dick 75). Subs not used: Neeson, Roy, Rice.

HW Welders: Dougherty, Dickson, Armstrong, Harris, McMurray, McMullan, Deans, Davidson, Devine (Rainey 59), Cahoon, Middleton (Bowers 80). Subs not used: Galbraith, Spence, Shields.

Referee: Ross Dunlop (Carrickfergus).