Local derby in Tipperary produces a five-goal thriller - relegation wolves kept at bay

Clonmel Credit Union League Division 2

Rosegreen Rangers 2 – 3 Clerihan

Clerihan travelled the short distance to Rosegreen on Sunday, knowing nothing less than three points would be enough to stop them sliding back down to the Third Division after promotion last season. And they came from behind twice to record a victory at the death to ensure their battle will carry on for at least another round of games.

Rosegreen started well and opened the scoring in the 20th minute when Daithi Bargary took on a defender, stepped inside and cracked a shot to the bottom corner from inside the eighteen yard area.

But they only managed to hold the lead for ten minutes before conceding a free kick at the edge of the area, which was fired past their goal keeper.

Rosegreen were having the better of the chances in open play, but were unable to make any of them count and the game went to the break all square.

Rosegreen started the second half as they finished the first, creating the better chances, and retook the lead just before the hour mark when Ian Shelly crossed a delicious ball from the left that was headed back across the area, and Gavin Ryan headed home from less than six yards out.

But they let themselves down at the back less than five minutes later, getting caught square and allowing Clerihan to level the game for a second time.

After that the game looked destined to finish in a draw. However, with five minutes left, Clerihan managed to open up the home defence once again and score the vital goal that keeps the relegation wolves from the door for one more week at least.