Carlow Soccer League qualify from semi-finals of Pat Whitty Cup
Carlow goalscorer Jamie Maher and Hakeem Ryan of the Defence Forces. Photo: michaelorourkephotography.ie
Jamie Maher's first half goal was enough to see Carlow into the semi-finals of the Pat Whitty Memorial Trophy as they drew 1-1 with Defence Forces. Coupled with Kilkenny's 3-2 defeat to Wexford, it's enough to see Carlow finish second behind Wexford.
Whilst it's unclear at the moment whether there is an advantage for finishing second, it is hoped that they will have home advantage for their semi-final against Kilkenny on the 11th of December. With the Defence Forces boasting eight changes from the sides that got beaten 5-0 and 8-0 by Kilkenny and Wexford, Defence Forces were by far the better side throughout and looked strong.
Jamie Maher of Crettyard put Carlow 1-0 up within two minutes as he cut in from the left. However, Carlow didn't have it quite so easy after that and the Defence Forces grew into the game. Carlow changed to a three at the back at half-time in an effort to combat the opposition and try to nullify them.
With 15 minutes to go, Defence Forces levelled as Craig Doyle in the goal struggled to keep hold of a corner from the right, dropping it into his own net. Aaron Cunnigham-Burke went closest to getting a late winner as he forced the 'keeper into a double save to deny him.
Carlow held on to qualify for the semi-finals.
