Andy Ryan’s stunning free-kick helped Larne to a win against Dungannon Swifts. Ryan’s goal came from a free-kick almost 30 yards out. The Swifts pushed for an equaliser, with Tiernan Kelly missing a key opportunity.
Ryan’s Free-Kick the Difference
Larne won the first corner of the evening, but the Swifts dealt with it. James Simpson then halted their attempted breakaway with a challenge on Andrew Mitchell. Some early frustration was evident as Larne struggled for go-forward momentum.
Rohan Ferguson gifted Dungannon the ball in a dangerous area, but Tomas Cosgrove cleared the danger. Kealan Dillon’s shot from range took a deflection, but Rohan Ferguson made the save. James Simpson made ground into the penalty area and found Jordan McEneff, whose cross picked out Andy Ryan, but his header went wide.
Ronan Doherty made a run into the box and his cutback looked like a chance, but no-one could get a touch. Paul Doyle tried a long-range effort after a Larne giveaway, but Rohan Ferguson saved it.
Swifts Push for an Equaliser
Tiernan Kelly missed a volley that could have been the equaliser. Leo Alves swung in a free-kick from the right to the back post, which Kelly met on the volley. He was completely unmarked but steered his effort wide.
Jordan McEneff sent in a ball from the right that Cathal McGinty awkwardly sliced over his own crossbar. Dungannon dealt with the set-piece.
Dungannon Aim for Top Six Finish
The two previous meetings this season saw one win apiece for Larne and Dungannon Swifts. Stangmore Park hosted both games, with the home side winning the first match at the start of October. Goals from Tiernan Kelly and Kealan Dillon gave the Swifts all three points.
- Larne started brightly.
- Dungannon were allowed to string passes together and get comfortable.
- It’s one win apiece for Larne and Dungannon Swifts from their two previous meetings this season.
Rodney McAree will be keen to get a point to secure the top six finish, which is huge for Dungannon.