Bridge United A 1 Newmarket Celtic A 0

Bridge United A took a giant step towards winning the Clare soccer league’s premier league title when they defeated holders Newmarket Celtic at McDonough Park this Sunday morning.

An outstanding defensive display, particularly in the final quarter, was key to this success on a day when the all important goal was scored by Darragh Fitzgerald early in the second half.

Over the ninety minutes, Bridge deserved the victory. They had the better of the first half exchanges and will have been disappointed not to lead at the interval. They had a great chance to take the lead just before half time when they were awarded a penalty after Derek Fahy was adjudged to have been fouled in the square/ However, Niall Quinn produced an excellent save from Robbie Wall.

The final quarter was dominated by the home side butthey simply could not break down a superb Bridge United defence in which team captain Darren Murphy and goalkeeper John Mulready excelled. Mulready was particularly outstanding in the air and his safe handling denied the home side on more than one occasion.

While there are still a number of games to be played, the advantage is now very much with Bridge while Newmarket will be hoping to get back to winning ways ahead of their upcoming Munster junior cup final date with St. Michaels from Tipperary

By Seamus Hayes