Mervue self-destruct against Shelbourne

MERVUE United imploded after twice leading high flyers Shelbourne before a pair of red cards and two own goals helped Dermot Keely’s side to victory in an action packed encounter at Terryland Park on Friday. The hosts looked set to take something from the fixture following a polished performance in the opening half that saw them lead Shels 2-1, until Mark Ludden’s sending off in the 40th minute ceded the numerical advantage to the Dublin side.Mervue seemed to selfdestruct in the second half when own goals by substitute Mixy Harty and Paul Dannagher gifted Shelbourne a flattering victory after David McAllister’s equaliser. John Glynn made just one change to the line up that crashed to a 4-2 defeat away to Monaghan United last week with Evan Connolly replacing Eric Browne in midfield, while David Goldbey’s absence continued due to suspension.Defenders Stephen Quigley and Kevin Doherty returned to the Shelbourne side at the expense of Robbie Hedderman and Tony Griffiths following their 3-3 draw against Limerick. United started the game brightly and squandered a golden opportunity to take the lead after just three minutes when Mike Tierney found himself one on one with Shels goalkeeper Dean Delaney thanks to a splendid through ball by Kevin Crehan. The Mervue forward failed to punish the visitors, however, shooting directly at Delaney. The Galway side...