Rearcross 'B' unlucky to lose by the odd goal in 7

Rearcross ‘B’ made the long trip to Offaly last Saturday evening to take on Shinrone ‘B’ in their penultimate game of the season. The game started at a slow pace with both teams struggling to hold the ball until Oisin Keeshan opened the scoring for the home side in the 14th minute on a rebound from a Brian Hammersley save. Rea responded 10 minutes later when Gavin Denihan produced a brilliant, chipped shot from a tight angle to equalise for Rea. The remainder of the half was a cagey affair with both sides defending well until Gavin Denihan secured his brace just before half time to see Rearcross go in 2-1 up at the break. Changes were made at half time with Brian Hammersley being brought out to left wing as Eamonn Devitt took his place in goal.
John Fitzpatrick equalised for Shinrone in the 54th minute to put the game in the balance. Fitzpatrick then went and added his second from the penalty spot in the 67th minute. However, it didn’t take Rea long to reply as substitute William Horrigan headed home from close range to level proceedings once again. Shinrone went and secured their winner in the 75th minute as John Fitzpatrick completed his hattrick to see Shinrone run out 4-3 winners. To their credit Rea showed great work ethic in what was a dead rubber game as they look to end the season on a high with their final game of the season away to Moneygall ‘B’.

Shinrone United ‘B’: N. Smith, S. McLeish (Capt), J. Deane, S. Hoctor, K. Curtis, M. McCarthy, L. Hoctor, T. Brennan, L. Reamsbottom, J. Fitzpatrick, O. Keeshan.
Subs: B. Younge, G. Fahy.

Rearcross ‘B’: Brian Hammersley, David Brennan, Eamonn Devitt (Capt), Sean Malone, Sean Hickey, Gary O’Brien, Matty Feehan, Paul Ryan, Gavin Denihan, Colm Carey, Colm Nolan.
Subs: Felim Deegan, William Horrigan

Referee: Robert Mandrila

Report by Brian Hammersley