Delight for Dollingstown thanks to slick city final

Dollingstown FC manager, Gary Duke, pictured with the Premier Cup after his side beat Camlough Rovers in the final at Holm Park, Armagh, last Friday night. INLM02-203.

Dollingstown’s 2-0 triumph left Malone and his colleagues as knockout champions one week on from Boxing Day disappointment against Armagh City.

Malone had registered a superb long-range drive in the festive setback against City but was left with plenty to celebrate at the close of play on Friday as Dollingstown secured a 2-0 success over Camlough Rovers.

“It was vital we got back on track on Friday following the Boxing Day defeat,” said Gary Duke, the Dollingstown manager. “It also put down a marker in terms of getting a good win over one of our rivals in Mid-Ulster football.

The Dollingstown FC team celebrate after winning the Premier Cup after beating Camlough Rovers in the final at Holm Park, Armagh, last Friday night. INLM02-202..

“Two big defeats in a row would really have knocked us back but the players displayed a great attitude to recover at the first opportunity.

“I felt we dominated from the start and could have scored more but, in the end, it was a comfortable win.”

Neil Clydesdale put Dollingstown into the lead by converting a loose ball after Malone’s corner-kick delivery dropped for the striker inside the packed penalty area.

Malone then converted directly from a corner-kick to close out the final.

“The wind made life a bit difficult but we scored against it and, once in front, had something to build on,” said Duke. “The big pitch suited us in Armagh and we just concentrated on passing it around and keeping it on the ground.

“We defended well when required, with the back three of Neil King, Aaron Moffett and Mark Savage excellent.

“Playing on an artificial pitch can take a toll on Andy Hamilton due to past injury problems but he showed real desire to want to play on the night.

“Richard Thompson had chances to increase the lead and we finished with efforts cleared off the line.

“The Camlough goalkeeper produced some top saves but we are just happy with the overall result and pleased to have another trophy to bring back to the club.

“Next up we have a Marshall Cup tie.”

DOLLINGSTOWN: Chris Fletcher, Neil King, Aaron Moffett, Mark Savage, Andy King, Adam Walker, Andy Hamilton, Jordan Gibson, Dale Malone, Richard Thompson, Neil Clydesdale. Subs: Johnny McAdam, Duncan Stoddart, Chris Mackle, Michael McClean, David Wilton.