This article is from page 61 of the 2009-01-06 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 61 JPG
BRIDGE Celtic survived a strong second half comeback to see off the challenge of Bridge United on Sun-
day
Celtic raced into a three goal first half lead but let their guard slip after the break.
United, who are loitering around
the lower reaches of the table, forced their way back into contention with two early goals. Only a late Barry O’Connell ensured all three points for the home side.
The win sees Celtic climb into fourth place level on points with third place Avenue and seven behind league leaders Bunratty.
With Ger O’Connell and Daniel
Aherne still to return to the fold, Celtic will hope they can maintain their recent run of good form.
A win looked a foregone conclu- sion on Sunday after the home side completely dominated the first half. Shane Byrne opened the scoring for Celtic who doubled their advantage through Kieran Aherne’s goal soon Nilo
Wesley Flemming knocked in the third goal as Celtic rubberstamped their authority on the first half.
But Celtic aren’t the first team and they certainly won’t be the last to rest ONO eloi Dum E-1UNus) KEN AKo) UOT @Detcam: Meese nce manding lead.
The job was by no means complete. United regrouped for the second half and a converted penalty made it 3-1.
A shock really looked on the cards when Kieran Aherne put through his own net to reduce Celtic’s lead to one with 20 minutes still to play.
Celtic manager Johnny Flynn made a few changes to his side and they had the desired effect. Celtic kept United at bay and Barry O’Connell popped up to seal the victory with a late goal.
A good win for Celtic but equally encouraging will be the performance of debutant Tommy Lynch. Lynch was part of the Clonlara team that won the Clare senior hurling cham- pionship and he looks set to play an important role in the remainder of Celtic’s season.
Next up for the east Clare side is a home encounter next Sunday against second place Lifford.