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Category: Archive

Rovers stay on top

February 16, 2011

By Staff Reporter

Rovers 3, F.C. Bosnjak 0

The Rovers stayed top after a tough battle with the Croatian side at the weekend. Goalkeeper Jack Stepanowski kept Rovers in the game with two good early saves, but with Bobby Davies and Pat Brosnahan tightening the defense and Paul McGlynn covering every blade of grass to win the ball, the Irishmen gradually took control. Rovers took the lead on the half hour when Chris Simms met John O’Hagan’s corner, his header hitting the post then the keeper’s leg before crossing the line.

Rovers started the second half without Kevin Daly, who pulled a hamstring, but in came Alex Byrne for a solid performance. Glaswegian Stuart Duffin added a marvelous second goal with a rocket left foot shot, and when McGlynn put Byrne in, he pulled the ball back for Declan Condron to hammer home the third. Rovers have six league games left and must win them all to win the league for the first time in their history.

Rovers Reserves 2 F.C. Bosnjak 1

Down to 10 men after Nick Sebastian was sent off early, Rovers showed tremendous heart again to come from behind for a memorable win. Keeper Dave Ballantyne made two great saves early on but was harshly adjudged to have fouled a forward and from the penalty Bosnjak took the lead. Rovers were sloppy and it took a wonder clearance off the line from Kevin Kenny to keep it 1-0.

Dean Gibson will wonder how he didn’t score from three chances, but Brian Monahan’s side rolled up their sleeves and with 20 minutes left veteran John Browne rose to head home the equalizer. Niall Coogan had a great chance to win it but just when it seemed a draw was on the cards, Alex Byrne picked up a loose ball, beat two men and slotted home the winner. Rovers are top of the league by two points.

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