FOOTBALL: McCauley brace helps Derry Colts sink Roesiders

The Colts defeated North West rivals Limavady at Limavady Showgrounds last Wednesday night to book their place in the last four against the Belfast Blues.

Colts started strongly against the Roesiders but Limavady created the first clear-cut chance when Colts keeper Leannan McCann blocked a shot from Woods and Sean Duffy cleared the danger.

However, Colts deservedly took the lead a few minutes later when Thomas McCauley headed home after a good build-up on the left involving Aodhfan McLaughlin and Rory McDermott.

But credit to Limavady as they equalised midway through the half when Woods fired home past McCann from inside the box.

Although Colts continued to dominate play, the teams went into the half-time break on level terms at 1-1.

Colts once again started the second half strongly with Dermot Magee and Ruairi McKinney dominating in midfield and McCauley and Joe Callaghan posing a constant threat up front.

It was no surprise when Colts’ pressure finally paid dividends when Duffy headed home following a corner to put Colts 2-1 in front.

Limavady tried to get back in the game but found the Colts defence of Riann Norrby, Nathan Divin, McLaughlin and Duffy in outstanding form.

Ten minutes from time the tie was ended as a contest when McCauley scored his second and Colts third.

Then Callaghan scored in the final minute to make the final score Limavady 1-4 Derry Colts.

This was an excellent team performance from the Colts, where everyone played their part but Duffy, Magee and two goal hero McCauley deserve special mention.

Derry Colts squad: Leannan McCann, Riann Norrby, Aodhfan McLaughlin, Sean Duffy, Nathan Divin, Dermot Magee, Thomas McCauley, Ruairi McKinney, Joe Callaghan, Jack Gallagher, Rory McDermott, Kai Hegarty and Brandon Hegarty.