mid-ulster shield

Hoops reach fourth final in a row

Cleary Celtic starting eleven pictured before Friday night’s Mid Ulster semi-final clash with West End Hibs at Annagh FC Picture: Brendan Monaghan Sports/DNA

Despite losing key player, Brendan Coulter, to a red card on the brink of halftime, Newry side, Cleary Celtic, managed to hold out a vibrant West End Hibs and book their place in Easter Monday’s Mid Ulster Shield final.

The Newry outfit could meet fellow city side, Newry Celtic, who clash with Glenavy next Friday night in the competition’s second semi-final at the Portadown venue.

Cleary took an early lead on two minutes thanks to a fine left foot finish from midfielder, Jack O’Doherty followed by the first of two goals from experienced striker, Marty Havern.

Havern tapped home his second goal on 18 minutes after West End had clawed a goal back and the Newry side seemed to be in control.

Coulter’s dismissal changed the course of the game in the second half as Cleary defended their lead. A second goal from West End Hibs put the pressure on the Hoops, but some fine defensive work and a couple of timely blocks from goalkeeper Joe Goodwill saw the Newry lads reach the final.