SCOTSTOWN PUSHED CROSSMAGLEN all the way in a close-fought Ulster final, but a brief lapse in concentration proved to be their downfall.
Cross led 1-14 to 1-12 early in the second period of extra time before Scotstown keeper Rory Beggan tried to take a short kick-out quickly.
Given the appalling weather conditions, it wasn’t the best idea and as the ball bobbled loose, Jamie Clarke was able to react quicker than any defenders.
Scotstown might well argue that they should have had a free but there was no whistle and Clarke collected the ball and carried towards goal before spinning away from the tackle of Sean Mohan.
As Beggan tried to make amends by closing the gap, Clarke then popped the ball across the square to where Kyle Carragher was waiting to finish to the empty net.
It gave Cross a five-point lead with five minutes to play and, although Brian McGinnity scored a second Scotstown goal late on, that was the final margin.
Firmino should be in the team of the year never mind alternative team. Been brilliant for Liverpool and I’m by no means a Liverpool fan
@Mel Roberts: Definilty, he’s been fantastic.
Lascelles from Newcastle has been outstanding all season. Would have him in at the back. As has Mee from Burnley.
@David OfBrien: They should do an Alternative Alternative Team of the Season.
@Alan J. McKenna: or maybe look outside of the top 6 clubs for a change. Tarkowski and vardy are the only players selected from clubs outside of the top 6.
@David OfBrien: The best players tend to come from the clubs that, you know, perform the best in the season. And you tend to find those at the top of the table. Sorry if that sounds radical.
@Alan J. McKenna: Not radical, just not very intelligent or well thought out.
Many players have performed outstandingly over the season with teams not at the top level, making their performances even better, compared with the likes of Otamemdi for example.
The top teams might have the best players, but it’s a competition for the players who’ve played the best over the season, and those should be considered.
Nice try though.
@James SonofLochlann: took the words right out of my mouth.
Andy Robertson every day of the week, most improved player and what a bargain!
Valencia in for azpilicueta without any question !
Even though Chelsea had a poor season Kante is better than Matic
No Andy Robertson, Again. Underrated obviously.
Ederson? And your reasoning being nothing to do with conventional goalkeeping.
Easy to look good in terms of clean sheets and goals conceded when your team averages like 75% possession and you face barely any shots. De Gea or Pope have clearly been the best in the league.
@Brian: Pope is great with crosses, in fairness…
Lascelles over Sanchez, bit of a donkey if I’m honest. Not very reassuring at the back.
Agree with the team overall but feel like Kante or Shane Duffy are also some good shouts