Monaghan 1-12 Derry 0-10 A superb final square display from Monaghan centre-forward Daniel McKenna proved the difference here as the young Farney men had five points to spare over Derry in the first round of the ESB Ulster MFC yesterday at Celtic Park. After 12 minutes it all looked to be going so well for Derry, as they led 0-6 to 0-2 after racing out of the traps in their bid to spring a shock against the visiting favourites. Centre-forward Benny Heron, midfielders Emmet McGuckin and Conlan, and inside forwards Brendan Quigg, Fintan Bell and Kevin O'Neill were all involved in the early points for the Oak Leafers. However, Monaghan were far from stunned as they began to settle into the game after Aaron McCarey and Shane Coyle shot early goal chances straight in the path of the Derry goalkeeper. A minute from the break Coyle made no mistake with his second chance at goal as he buried a devastating finish into the Derry net on the turn. Herron and McGukin kept the scoreboard ticking over for Derry in the early stages of the restart, but further overs from McKenna and Coyle had the game level 0-10 to 1-7 on 47 minutes. After that McKenna dictated the play, as Monaghan hit five unanswered points, two of which came from the centre-forward's boot. Derry had a late chance of snatching a goal when substitute Tony Martin attempted a low drive, but this was brilliantly blocked down by Cathal Crowe, who had produced a superb display at the back for Bernie Murray's charges. Tweet

Most Read Stories