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Quilligans entertained league leaders Layton Institute at Collins Park determined to pick up another 3 points to close the gap at the top of the table. Quilligans started the game with the slope in their favour and an array of talent warming the bench.
The opening exchanges proved that this was going to be a tough encounter, with Layton a much improved side from last season. Both sides created early chances with Catlow firing just wide and Clowes being forced to tip over from a well delivered Layton corner.
Quilligans had further chances to open their account with Spedding heading into the arms of the Layton keeper, then Catlow forcing a fine save when through on goal. Spedding again had a chance to open the scoring after a fine header back across the Layton goal found him lurking but he couldn't quite get any purchase on the final ball.
A very tight first half. with Quilligans having the better of the chances.
Half time, 0-0
The second half started as the first ended with the game being a very close affair. Spedding was making a nusiance of himself and nearly got his reward when he fired just over from a Sugden cross.
Spedding was in the thick of the action again when a superb run and cross found Catlow at the back post. With the goal at his mercy he headed wide when it looked easier to score.
Boal replaced Spedding on 65 minutes.
After a couple of nasty challeges which nearly ended in a touchline mêlée, but did result in a booking for a Layton player, the game settled back down, and with 10 minutes remaining Quilligans took the lead. Substitute Boal found Rowe with a great ball, he beat his man and fired through the Layton's keepers legs.
Brooks replaced Swallow on 85 minutes.
With time running out Sugden was scythed down in the penalty area, and the referee had no hesitation in pointing to the spot. Catlow stepped up in anticipation of opening his account. However, the Layton keeper guessed right and made a smart save.
Full-time, 1-0.
Scorers
Rowe 80.
Team
Clowes, Thompson, Pearson, Gorrie, Ioannou, Swallow (Brooks, 85), Rowe, Nuttall, Sugden, Spedding (Boal, 65), Catlow.
Substitutes
Boal, Bracwewell, Brooks, Moore. |
