Finn Harps v Monaghan United

Monaghan United have their first away trip of the season when they travel to Finn Park to take on fellow Ulster side Finn Harps. Up until the past two seasons the Ballybofey venue was never a happy one for Monaghan but in those past two seasons things have got better for them. Last season when United were constructing an impressive away record Harps slipped down to Gortakeegan and took away all the points scoring the only goal of the game,in the return game at Finn Park the sides shared the points in poor scoreless draw and in the final game at Gortakeegan United had a good 2-0 win.

Harps come into this game after a fortnight’s lay off since their away game against Athlone was called off last week due to a water logged pitch, it’s not the time of the season that either management or team appreciate a break. The Donegal side kicked off their season with 2-2 draw at home to Limerick, from accounts of the game it appears that it was two points lost rather than a point gained.  They took the lead twice the first time as early as the fourth minute but on each occasion the allowed Limerick back in.  The performance by both sides was typical of the first game of the season particularly since both had a number of players making their debut with the clubs.

The fare served up at Gortakeegan between the Uniteds –Monaghan and Waterford was something similar to that at Ballybofey.  Monaghan with what looked like a comfortable 2-0 win but in fact that second goal came in 88th minute.  Monaghan survived a shaky start but grew into the game.  This was new manager Roddy Collins first time in the United dug out, he will be relieved to get first win of the season under his belt. United hadn’t the best of preparations for their opening game of the season especially loosing manager Mick Cooke the week before the kick off but credit to them and assistant manager/coach Aidan Lynch for this win. Indeed the statisticians were wondering had Monaghan ever won the opening game of the season.! For this game Collins will only be a week and half in charge but even in that short a space of time I believe we will see an improvement in the side.  United should extend their recent unbeaten run at Finn Park.

 Roddy Arrives.

 Monaghan United’s new manager Roddy Collins arrived to take charge of his first game at Gortakeegan on Friday having been only appointed the previous Tuesday night. With him arrived a great air of expectancy. He kicked off with a pre match press conference in the Westenra Arms Hotel that was designed particularly for the local press.  Roddy outlined to the crowded room what his expectations were and how he was delighted to be back in a management role. Roddy also met County Mayor, Chairman of The Chamber of Commerce  and representatives of the Town Council.  Roddy was also welcomed by the supporters club “ Friends of Monaghan United.” Roddy was followed around for the day by a! camera crew from RTE and highlights of this day featured on the MNS programme on Monday night. Although the new manager had intended taking a back seat for the first night’s action it wasn’t long until he was off the bench and shouting the instructions. Roddy appears to be a big hit with the fans.

Thanks to the Westenra

Thanks to Frank Mc Enaney and staff of the Westenra Arms  Hotel for providing facilities at short notice for the press conference on Friday evening.

Daniel Douglas R.I.P.

The football community in Monaghan were left in mourning last week with the news of the death of Daniel Douglas, Scotshouse/Clones.

Daniel was a valuable member of the Monaghan United Under-11 and Under 12 teams of 2004/5 and 2005/6 seasons. Daniels team were double league and cup winners in the Dundalk and District League in 2005 and 2006 reaching the quarter finals of the National Cup in 2006.

Condolences to his family and many friends. Go ndeanadh Dia grásta ar a anam.