CK Untied have to settle for a draw in Cork
Dean Kelly gave CK United the lead in Cork, but they had to settle for a draw against UCC Photo: Michael P Ryan/Sportsfile
For the second week in succession, CK United were forced to settle for a draw, this time away to UCC in Cork. Unlike last week's stalemate with Villa FC, however, this result felt more like two points dropped than one gained.
The Carlow-Kilkenny side remain unbeaten after the opening round of fixtures, having recorded two wins and two draws, but there was a sense of frustration at the final whistle. The result leaves Tom O'Connor's men playing catch-up on Villa at the top of the table and relying either on a slip-up from their rivals or a superior goal difference should both sides finish level on points.
In truth, CK could have few complaints about the outcome. UCC were the better side for long periods and created the clearer opportunities, particularly during a dominant second-half display. CK looked unusually vulnerable at the back and struggled to produce the attacking spark that has characterised much of their campaign to date.
Despite that, the visitors struck first after 15 minutes. A defensive error in the UCC backline allowed Ravo Kilonda to get a shot away, which was saved by goalkeeper Robert Barry. The rebound fell kindly to Dean Kelly and, with the keeper off his line, he showed great composure to control the ball before firing into the bottom-left corner.
The goal came against the run of play and UCC continued to press for an equaliser. Their persistence was finally rewarded with 13 minutes remaining when referee Ryan Jay O'Loughlin pointed to the penalty spot. Oscar Ahern made no mistake from 12 yards, sending his effort high into the top-left corner beyond the reach of Gavin O'Brien.
CK thought they had snatched a dramatic winner late on when Kelly slipped Emmett Nugent through on the right side of the penalty area. Nugent finished confidently to the net, sparking celebrations among the travelling support, but the assistant referee's flag was raised for offside and the goal was ruled out.
The draw sets up a crucial period for CK United. They host Killarney at SETU this Saturday before travelling to face table-toppers Villa FC in Waterford the following Tuesday, with Villa going into that encounter after a 10-day break.
