Wilderness Rovers claim the points and bragging rights in Tipperary soccer derby

Powerstown FC 1 Wilderness Rovers 3

Powerstown suffered a frustrating afternoon in the First Division of the Tipperary Southern and District League (TSDL) League on Sunday, as Wilderness Rovers capitalised on key moments in a dramatic match that included four penalties and a red card.

The game started with immediate intensity and the first major moment arrived in the 14th minute when Wilderness were awarded a penalty. Powerstown goalkeeper Oisín Martin produced a superb save, diving low to his left to deny the visitors and keep the match level.

However, Wilderness were awarded another penalty ten minutes later after a jersey pull inside the box. This time Ashley Kane stepped up and confidently converted to give the visitors a 1–0 lead.

Powerstown responded well and quickly found themselves back on level terms. In the 29th minute the referee awarded them a penalty for handball and David Grace calmly converted to make it 1–1.

The game continued at a frantic pace and just before half-time Wilderness regained the lead. Powerstown were punished for losing possession deep inside their own half, allowing Sean Hawkins to deliver a dangerous cross that was turned into the net by a Powerstown defender.

READ NEXT: Grateful Tipperary mother praises the Dillon Quirke Foundation

The second half remained competitive, with both teams creating opportunities. Powerstown came close through Eddie Sweeney, whose powerful free kick forced an excellent save from the Wilderness goalkeeper.

A huge opportunity arrived in the 83rd minute when Powerstown were awarded their second penalty of the game, once again for handball. However, Wilderness goalkeeper Sean Cagney produced a crucial save to maintain his side’s advantage.

The match was effectively decided two minutes later when Mark Olney was shown a red card for a last-man challenge, which resulted in yet another penalty.

Sean Brown stepped up and converted from the spot to make it 3–1 and secure the victory for Wilderness.

SEE MORE: Parking changes could be a 'seismic blow' to future of tourist town in Tipperary