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Quilligans progressed to the Gledhill quarter-finals after disposing of First Division side Tangerine Tavern at Stanley Park today.
Quilligans welcomed back midfielders Antony Pearson and Michael Clark who missed the LFA Trophy exit, but a number of cry-offs meant they only had 12 men for the tie.
After a positive start where Clarky missed a sitter from 8 yards out and some decent football, disaster struck after 15 minutes. Centre backs Mike Braebaum and Kevan Ford accidentally collided and both were floored with serious head wounds that needed hospital treatment.
Skipper Phil Thompson who was down watching due to injury, was forced to don his kit and went on as sub along with veteran Stuart Bracewell to shore up the defence.
Marc Beattie put Quilligans 1-0 up after 28 minutes, expertly chesting down Michael Clark's pass and volleying in from 12 yards out.
Half-time 0-1.
In the second half, the next goal was going to be crucial and Quilligans got it. Jordan Spedding raced through on to Antony Pearson's header and fired past the keeper to give Quilligans a precious 2-0 lead.
Tangerine battled on, and a long far post cross was headed home to give them hope with 15 minutes to go.
However, after further pressure from Quilligans, striker Jordan Spedding once more danced through their defence, rounded the keeper and calmly slotted the third to finally ice the tie.
In summary, a battling display from the holders. Struck down with two late cry-offs in the morning, and floored by losing both centre backs early in the game, they did what champions should do and that is find a way to win under trying circumstances.
All credit to Bracey and Tommo who came on and filled in for the injured duo at the back, ensuring Quilligans duly took their place in December's quarter final as we seek to reach the Gledhill final for an amazing ninth year on the trot.
Team
Smith, Braebaum, Ford, Douthwaite, Watt, Dickinson, Butler, Pearson, Clark, Spedding, Beattie.
Substitutes
Thompson, Bracewell.
Scorers
Beattie, Spedding (2).
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