Monaghan  United  vs  Finn Harps

This will be the second meeting of Monaghan United and Finn Harps this season, the previous game at Finn Park was the first game that Roddy Colllins took charge in. Harps were  able to capitalise on the lack of knowledge and understanding in the new set up of United’s manager and team and they had a large slice of luck which they made the best of. United went behind to a penalty in the dying seconds of  the first half, it was a controversial decision, although the referee was well placed it was the assistant who was much further away who flagged for the alleged infringement, Martin Mc. Hugh dispatched the  spot kick.  The second half was only ten minutes old when United were back on par.  Pressure from United forwards forced the keeper to spill a Sean Brennan free and Eric Foley pounced to slide the ball over the line.  When  Harps very influential forward Marc Brolly was stretchered off it caused a long period of stoppage time, immediately on the resumption Kevin Mc. Hugh got his second on the night taking advantage of the lack of concentration from United. But a sweet volley from 27 yards by Eric Foley had the sides level for the second time.  Ten minutes later the red mist descended when Thomas Bonnar received a straight red for a strike on Sean Brennan. Harps wisely went back into a blanket defence to preserve the point and they sustained constant bombardment from United to hold out.

Since that last game Harps have made a change of manager bringing in Peter Hutton  in place of James Gallagher, but it hasn’t brought them a change in fortune yet, but being one third of the way through the season  Harps have plenty of time to get into a more respectable position in the table. Hutton has taken charge of Derry City in the past, he will now have the new  director of football at the club Felix Healy who led  Harps  to the 1^st Division title in 2004  in his corner.

Monaghan United had the benefit of a weeks rest due to the bye in each round of the first Division this season.  Finn Harps  on the other hand were away to Limerick at Jackman Park. It was a game where the side that took their chance – Limerick had a 1-0 over Finn Harps the side who spurned the few very good opportunities that came their way. That result and ones elsewhere on the night sees Harps adrift in bottom position in the table.  The only goal of  the game came mid way in the second half when Limerick’s captain got on the end of a corner kick to fire home.  Harps had a couple of good chances to take the lead in the first place and to get the equaliser, twice  their very reliable striker Martin Mc. Hugh was through one an d one on the keeper but on each occasion his strike straight at the keeper didn’t even warm the hands of Barry Ryan. A quick break by Marc Brolly could have got them back on terms but he lacked support of his fellow strikers.

Monaghan United’s last outing was away to Athlone Town, a game in which they dominated from start to finish with some most attractive football.  With the benefit of a home ground and a good home support it would be surprising if United can’t replicate this performance.  Roddy Collins will be taking nothing for granted, he should have a strong panel to select from. There is no need to remind the supporters of Monaghan United that this is a Monday game due to the final of The Champions League. Kick off at Gortakeegan usual time 8.p.m.

Verdict: Home win.

Champions League.

Followers of the game especially anyone who supports the ‘Red Devils’ need no reminding that the Champions League Cup final takes place at Wembley Stadium next Saturday evening. In response to many requests from local soccer enthusiasts Monaghan United have agreed to open the club house for the occasion.

Before the Cup Final, highlights of last season’s League Cup between Sligo Rovers and Monaghan United will be shown.

Everyone invited to watch the game and enjoy after match Bar-B-Q

Doors open 6.p.m.

Monaghan Town FC in Ulster Cup Final

Good luck to the players, management and supporters of Monaghan Town FC in the final on the Ulster Junior Cup on Sunday next against Kilrera.  This is a fine achievement by the ‘Town’ in reacing the final.

Fundraising Challenge

Keep Sunday 12^th June free for Monaghan United’s Fundraising Challenge.

This challenge is being organised by ‘Friends of Monaghan United Supporters Club’

Cards are available from any member of the supporters club or from the club house. All teams welcome. Get your cards in and enter your team.