LC Services record another big win as UCC United held again

UCC United can draw some comfort that they remain unbeaten in three pre-season games, but a late equaliser from Shane Kennedy of County Council put paid to hopes in the University Shield. Meanwhile LC Services recorded another big win as they beat Cashs Export 5-1. They are certainly setting down a marker that they intend to better their thrid place position last season.

The UCC United - County Council game was a topsy turvy affair. Council took the lead through Pio Treacy who reacted quickest when a long distance effort came back off an upright. UCC United claims for offside were waved away. However, before the break the game was set alight by a fantastic goal from Gavin Kinsley. It's three goals in three games for the tricky winger, but he will have to go some way to top this effort. Picking the ball up 30 yards from goal, Kinsley ran at the Council defense but his Messi-like dribbling meant he left a trail of four defenders before calming slotting the ball beyond the despairing reach of the Council keeper.

It capped a wonderful spell by the college side who played good football to get themselves back on top. It was a fortunate goal that put them in front however. Dave O'Sullivan's corner was deflected into the net by the stand-in Council keeper. Although it was a lucky break, it was no more than United deserved.

It looked as if the first win of the year had been secured but the momentum of the side was disrupted by the introduction of six substitutions. This was demonstrated when Council scored in a goalmouth scramble after a direct free kick was spilled and not cleared properly.

Best for the Council were Paul Killeen, Ronan O'Sullivan and Dave Quinn. UCC had stand-out performances from goalscorers Kinsley and O'Sullivan as well as Evan Healy, playing against his old club, Trevor Darby and Daniel Kiely.

In the other game, LC Services crusied to victory over Cashs Export. A hat-trick from Paddy O'Mahoney and a brace from Eugene Hennessy put the greens in pole position in the tournament. Cash's consolation goal came from Shane Healy. Their stand-out players on the night were Pierce O'Brien at the back and Brian Wilson in the middle of the park.