FINN HARPS 0 WEXFORD YOUTHS 0 – FINN HARPS were denied all three points by Wexford Youths in a match dominated by the goalkeepers.
Kevin McHugh worked Youths keeper Graham Doyle on a number of occasions in this clash at Finn Park.
But the home side were to be denied again and again – particularly in the second half and Peter Hutton will see this as three points lost rather than a point gained.
The goalless draw leaves Harps joint top with Longford.
The sides had gone in level at half-time after what was a fairly dull first 45 minutes.
Michael Funston had the first shot of the game after just four minutes but a block from Gary Delaney allowed goalkeeper Graham Doyle to gather with ease.
Funston had another chance on 20 minutes, this time firing over the bar – and an overhead kick from McHugh went the same way ten minutes later.
Youths created the best opportunity 10 minutes before the break but the unmarked Joey Mulchay prods a quick free from Shaun Corcoran wide of the target.
Both sides must have had their ears roasted at half-time as the tempo was considerably higher in the second half.
But Harps had to thank keeper Gallagher twice for keeping them in the match, first denying Shane Nolan with a fine save – and then pulling off a better save as Nolan sent Glen Hawe through on goal.
Crossan and then McHugh responded with great efforts for Harps, the latter’s free kick on 66 minutes forcing Doyle to palm the ball over.
As Harps upped the pressure it was that man McHugh who was again on fire, this time firing in a 20-yard shot – only for Doyle to save again.
McBride had a late chance to win it but fired over.
Harps Line up: Gallagher, Cowan, Crossan, McMonagle, McNulty, Brolly, Funston, McBride, McGowan, McHugh, McVeigh
Subs: Thomas Bonner, Jonny Bonner, James Doherty, Michael Doherty, Mark Forker, Michael Lynch, Aaron O’Hagan
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