Tobermore United 1

TOBERMORE United’s efforts to finish in the top half of the Irish First Division remains on course after bagging three points against Carrick on Saturday.

Carrick, who started the day three points and one place above Tobermore, was always going to be a tough battle with them still stinging from their 5-2 pasting by Tobermore earlier in the season.

Tobermore were also keen on a win which would see them leapfrog their hosts and into fifth spot.

The big Carrick side dominated the early stages of the game without really threatening Hassan’s goals which was well protected by his back four that included Stephen Lamont, who was filling in for Michael Walsh, in the right back berth.

Tobermore played a counter attacking game and good breaks by Owens and Cooke almost caught out the home defence on a number of occasions.

At the other end Carrick came close to getting the opener but Owens was at had to whip the ball off the line.

As the half wore on Tobermore came more and more into the game and a goal looked likely and just as everyone was preparing for the half time refreshments it arrived. A great run down the left by McQuillan was carried on by the impressive Cooke whose pinpoint cross was met at the far post by Doherty who made no mistake from 10 yards to give his side the lead.

Tobermore were playing down the hill and with the breeze in the second half and made most of the early running forcing the home keeper to make 3 fine saves from Owens, Tosh and Doherty.

Carrick also had their chances but mainly from long range that seldom troubled Hassan.

As the game progressed Tobermore stamped their authority on it and in the end ran out comfortable winners and in doing so completed their second “double” in a week.

Tobermore: Hassan, Lamont, McQuillan, Boyle, Pattison, McCallum, Owens, Tosh, Cooke, Crockett, Doherty. Subs; Lynch, Campbell, Young, McLaughlin,

Manager Aidy McLaughlin said: “Sammy and I had a few words with everyone after the Ballyclare game and we are delighted at the response from the lads especially against the Duns.

“Today’s performance was also very pleasing against a big physical side who have been sitting close to the top of the league all season.

“We now have four games left, with three of them at home and it would be nice to continue with this form.”

Fixtures

Saturday April 26, Lurgan Celtic (home), Carnegie Irish League Div 1 (k.o.