February 16, 2011
By Staff Reporter
Rovers 2, Forest Park 1
Missing four regular starters through injury or suspension, coach Mark Hopper gambled on the fitness of Damian Dunleevy and Kevin Daly, who both had solid games, but it was midfield stopper Paul McGlynn who was the unlikely hero, scoring a rare goal with a header from a John O’Hagan corner on 15 minutes. Rovers swarmed all over Forest Park in the opening half hour, and went two up when O’Hagan turned provider again, crossing for slender striker Andy Hill to tap home.
It looked like a romp, but Forest Park battled their way back into the game and pulled one back with a brilliant free kick five minutes after the break. Rovers always looked the better team but were relieved to have defender Dennis McGowan and keeper Jack Stepanowski at the top of their games.
F.P. Reserves 4 Rovers 1
The Reserves as they were outclassed by Forest Park. The only bright spot was the form of Mick Kavanagh and Kevin Kenny, who both played well. But Rovers need to regroup for a championship push. Niall Coogan scored for the Rovers.
NY Hota Over 30s 2, Rovers 1
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"This is the best we’ve played and lost" said coach Joe McGreevy after Rovers dominated the game in every division but goal scoring. Pierce Coyle finally made his debut for the veterans, and he capped a fine performance with a well-taken goal to give the boys in green the lead, but feeling the game was won, Rovers relaxed and let in two late goals to lose the game.