Morgan’s magnificent saves prove decisive as Red Hands secure win

By Alan Rodgers

AN ABSOLUTELY brilliant save from Tyrone goalkeeper, Niall Morgan, with time virtually up, ensured that the Red Hands survived a late fightback to seal their first National League win on a final score of 2-7 to 0-12.

Two second half goals from Conn Kilpatrick and Darren McCurry edged the home team ahead entering the closing stages. But it was a nervous finish when Daniel Flynn raced through before unleashing a great shot which was heading for the top corner until the Tyrone keeper dived to save.

Victory in the game now leaves Tyrone perfectly poised ahead of a crunch Ulster derby clash against Donegal next Saturday night. They lost to Kerry in round three and both counties will realise the importance of sealing what would be a crucial win.

But at least Feargal Logan, Brian Dooher and the Tyrone players have the satisfaction of having secured this narrow one point win. An attendance of just over 3000 was at Healy Park for the clash which saw Kildare make much of the running during the early stages.

A series of points from Paddy Woodgate, Paul Cribbin and Daniel Flynn saw them into a 0-5 to 0-2 lead at the end of the first quarter. Tyrone were finding the going tough against the wind, although there was no shortage of drama as both teams created a number of good goal chances.

Darragh Canavan twice came close to hitting the net, his second shot come back off the crossbar. The Lilywhites were also disappointed after missing, Niall Morgan’s alertness keeping them at bay, even though they still lead by 0-8 to 0-4 at half-time.

Tyrone emerged with renewed vigour on the resumption and soon cut the deficit. A great interception and move culminated in Darragh Canavan setting up Conn Kilpatrick who made no mistake from close range. That left the score 0-8 to 1-4, but it took the Red Hands just a little longer to get back on level terms.

Goal number two in the 23^rd minute put them ahead. Darren McCurry was on hand to fire home and leave the score 2-5 to 0-10. However, it was to be a shortlived lead as Darragh Kirwan equalised for Kildare.

Moments later his rasping shot was well saved by Niall Morgan, as Tyrone grabbed the initiative with substitute Richard Donnelly fired over the lead point just prior to the end of normal time. Darren McCurry put them two ahead soon after, but there were more anxious moments before the win was secured.

First came that Daniel Flynn shot and Niall Morgan’s save and then Kildare goalkeeper Mark Donnellan missed a free to equalise as the final whistle sounded much to the relief of the Red Hand players, management and fans.