Fifths earn fine victory

Garvey dominated the opening proceedings and a busy midfield tussle ensued with chances at both ends.

The first goal of the game came from a sweeping Garvey move starting with left back Graham Beckett on his own defensive 25 yard line. A slick interchange of passing between Beckett, Mark Murray and Bruce Agnew left Murray running into the circle with the keeper to beat. The ball was duly dispatched past the onrushing keeper.

The second half got off to a controversial start when a Cliftonville short corner strike was deflected at waist height by the defender on the line onto the backboard and the Cliftonville umpire awarded a goal.

A fired up Garvey defence, epitomised by Marty Rodgers stormed forward and it was his bursting runs that set up a series of gilt-edged chances. Rodgers found Darren Scott free in the opposition circle with an inch perfect pass. Scott calmly took his time and slotted the ball low into the corner to restore Garvey’s lead.

Garvey then sealed their victory with the third goal. Hard working Rupert Pinion was the provider, playing a delightful pass to the onrushing Murray, who rounded the keeper and pushed the ball into the empty net.