Reds end Pembroke winning streak

Men's Leinster Division One:
Corinthian 2 (Davy Carson 2) Pembroke 1 (Andy McConnell)
Davy Carson (pictured) scored a memorable second half double to inflict just Pembroke's third defeat in 2009 as Corinthian came from a goal behind at Whitechurch tonight to open the door for a couple of clubs in the second half of the season.

The reds were the last side to get one over on Pembroke, a silver goal victory last March in the Mills Cup final, but were stunned inside 20 seconds when Paddy Conlon laid off a superb pass to Andy McConnell to smash home a rip-roaring reverse. From then on, Pembroke's full press saw them dominate territory but produce little end product as only Alan Sothern's reverse shot could be classed a clear chance.

Lucas Piccioli drew a strong baseline block from Antoine Bruneau, the 18-year old Frenchman standing in for the injured David Harte. The keeper blocked one corner from Chris Pelow - Brian Doherty forced into an early exit due to injury - as the low-key first half ended 1-0.

But the reds were back on terms in incredible fashion as a great team move saw Andrew Cronje and Chris Pelow eventually combine to whip in a first time cross from the left wing. Carson nipped in ahead of goalkeeper and defender at the near post but a slight trip knocked him to the ground. He maintained control, however, and, while on the floor on the endline, used his reverse to nudge the ball under Bruneau to slowly roll in off the back post.

Pembroke's attacks became more urgent with one flurry drawing four successive saves from Ross Murray as they camped in the reds 25. But Cronje, Alan Blennerhassett, Andrew Sutton and Ben Murphy excelled at defending the circle, keeping free shots to the bare minimum while a series of baseline pull-backs found only red sticks.

And their efforts were rewarded at the far end when Rowland Rixon-Fuller bulldozed his way down the left wing to lay on a sublime cross for Carson. The young striker applied an effortlessly graceful touch at the near post for 2-1. Pembroke earned their second corner on the final whistle but Henry Micks charged down Alan Sothern's drag-flick and the clearance sparked wild celebrations. The reds move back into top spot while Glenanne were also an interested spectator. Game very much on in the league.