Mervue Utd see off Oranmore challenge to stay top of division

Mike Rafferty

Mervue United retained their leadership of the Western Hygiene Supplies Premier Division following the weekend action as a 4-2 success over fellow challengers Oranmore confirms their status as the only unbeaten side left in the top flight.

Meanwhile there were first league wins of the season for Hibernians and NUI Galway as they saw off the challenges of Corrib Rangers and Salthill Devon respectively.

Mervue United 4Oranmore 2

In a very productive opening spell, proceedings were just under way when Mike Fahy guided the visitors ahead with an early touch and the clock still hadn’t passed five minutes before the sides were level when Colie Kelly converted a spot kick awarded for handball to leave matters tied at 1-1.

The second half continued to provide more goals and Kelly turned provider as Derek McWalter put the home side ahead, but when Fahy was up ended in the box at the other end on the hour mark matters were level again at 2-2 when Lonan O’Farrell knocked home the resulting penalty.

Matters remained competitive and Dara Ryan had an effort taken off the line, before two goals in the final ten minutes sealed the win for the home side. Darvin Dowling and Robert Connolly provided the assists before Keith McHugh blasted past Jordi Hernandez and Ryan then set up the fourth for Miko Nolan who fired home from close range to seal a 4-2 win.

The contest end ended in less than perfect harmony as a player from each side were dismissed following a clash on 85 minutes.

For more, read this week's Connacht Sentinel.