Vincent’s make statement in title race

highest at the back post to meet a cross from the right and he picked out John, who couldn’t miss from all of four yards. Stung by the opener, Galty logged a strong response. On the front foot, they committed numbers forward and asked telling questions. Despite Vincent’s defending well, Galty created some clear chances, but a combination of wasteful finishing and good goal-keeping kept it 1-0 at the break.

With 20 minutes left on the clock, John delivered a moment of magic that showed the difference between the sides. A sublime outside of the foot pass spun into Barra’s path, who held off a defender to finish high into the net from the edge of the area. For inclusion in any goal of the season conversation, no team in this league could have defended against such a pass-and-finish combination. Galty pulled a goal back with five minutes remaining, but UCD medical student Alex ended the threat with a composed finish after winning the ball high up the pitch.

Paddy O’Connor, Luke Harrington, Gavin Kane and Darren McMahon were brilliant in defence and allowed the flair players a platform to go and win the game. The result leaves the team in control of its own destiny with seven league games remaining, but a number of twists and turns are assured before the league title race is run.

<p class=”subheadMIstyles”>Vincent’s key performer

Barra Neary delivered his usual action-packed performance from the left wing. The St Vincent’s House Officer created the first and scored the second to make his presence felt. Not one to shy away from physical contact, Barra set the right tone from the first minute, and showed his quality when opportunities presented themselves. A key member of the team’s attacking trio, he will be called upon to log more performances like this in the coming weeks.

<h3 class=”subheadMIstyles”>What next?</h3>

St Vincent’s host CYM Beechwood on Friday, 27 April at St Benildus in an 8pm kick-off.

<h3 class=”subheadMIstyles”>Match day squad</h3>

Sean Keane, Gavin Kane, Darren McMahon, Luke Harrington, Paddy O’Connor, Peter Kelly, Rory Durand, John Cosgrove, Fionn Nally, Barra Neary, Aidan McGrath, Paul Carroll, Alex McDaid, Dean Huggard, Luke Sheeran Purcell.

<h3 class=”subheadMIstyles”>In addition…</h3>

Follow the St Vincent’s Hospital FC Facebook page, or get in contact via email: svuhfc@gmail.com.

We would like to thank Rodney Smythe, photographer, for his fantastic match coverage.