Redbank serve up a thriller against Wicklow Celtic
REDBANK UNITED and Wicklow Celtic served up a thrilling contest in Moneystown on Sunday as United kept their promotion hopes alive and kicking.
United raced into a 4-0 lead inside the opening 40 minutes. They then handed Celtic a lifeline in the match when they gave away a penalty five minutes before the break but player-manager Dwaine Cooper saw his spot kick kept out by Redbank shot-stopper Peter 'Cech' Byrne.
But Celtic came out all guns blazing in the second period and within minutes of the restart they reduced their arrears when Steve Canavan fired home a half volley from outside the area.
Keith Broughan then pulled back another strike for Celtic before Anto Drake netted to leave the score finely balanced at four goals to three.
But United killed off the fight-back when they added a fifth and despite Keith Broughan pulling another goal back late on, all three points went to Redbank.
Declan Carstairs (2), Faoileann Fortune, Ken O'brien and John Wallace were on target for United.
If Wicklow Celtic want revenge they won't have to wait long for their chance though as the two will do battle again in the Charlie Byrne Cup this Sunday.
Elsewhere, Fassaroe YC B enjoyed their first outing for over a month when they took on and defeated Avonmore FC B at the Fassaroe Community Centre.
Ross O'brien's fine strike earned the Bray side a 1-0 victory that sees them cut Fairwood Celtic's lead over them to just four points. Saints FC was also playing catch-up this weekend. They clashed with Arklow United B in Ferndale Park and ran out comfortable 0-4 winners.
Chris Sheridan blasted his side into the lead before Alan Prendergast doubled the Wexford side's lead with his first goal for the club.
Paulie O'brien then gave his side some breathing space when he made it 0- 3 before Neil Gregan wrapped up it late on to propel his side to within a win of top spot in Division 3.
