Drogheda United breathed new life into their season last night with a derby day victory over Dundalk, courtesy of a Dean Williams penalty in the second half.
Kevin Doherty’s side were full value for their victory against their fierce rivals from the north of the county. That was despite having to navigate a growing injury list and enduring a start to the campaign that had many observers wondering if a season of struggle awaited.
But it is Stephen O’Donnell who will be left with much to ponder after a rare derby defeat. His Dundalk side have now won just once in seven outings – once fewer than Drogheda, who started the evening third from bottom.
Greg Sloggett fouled Darragh Nugent just four minutes into the second half to hand the Drogs a chance to put them to the sword. Williams gleefully accepted.
His spot kick sent Nathan Sheppard the wrong way and sent the home crowd delirious. The Louth derby atmosphere was certainly one to savour. At least until the full-time whistle that is.
There were ugly clashes between opposing fans on the pitch after the game, with scores of fans clashing and punches thrown amidst the chaos. It didn’t last long but took some of the gloss off the night for Drogheda.
Both Williams and Dane Massey had gone close to handing United a lead in the first half. Only key interventions from Andy Boyle and John Martin kept the game scoreless.
Pat Hoban and Boyle had chances for Dundalk but neither forced a save out of Scottish stopper Sam Long.
Drogheda’s lead goal was deserved. The Lilywhites created few clear-cut chances despite having more possession than their hosts.
Sub Steven Bradley – February's Player of the Month – did add spark to their attacking play. He forced Long into a fine save and late on, producing a classy piece of play before curling a shot just wide.
Paul Doyle’s header went wide of Long’s goal and Pat Hoban rarely looked like adding to his three career goals against the Drogs.
Adam Foley’s 25-yard strike crashed off the bar at the other end and the ex-Finn Harps man went close again late on.
Drogheda didn’t need the cushion and saw it out to claim just a 19th ever league win in the Louth Derby.
