Honours were even this morning in tight game in the fog in Portlaoise. Mullingar Celtic had a flying start and played some great football in the opening minutes we crafted a couple decent chances but the home side stuck to their task and weathered the early storm.
Portlaoise began to play some good football themselves and got a deserved goal around the 30 minute mark. The game turned into a cagey affair until half time with nit much action at either end.
The second half opened the game up a bit with both sides having chances. Mullingar Celtic were getting joy out wide and equalised that’s to some great link up play between Daire Hynes and Ryan Dempsey who crossed for Ian Keelan whos been on fire recently and slotted home.
Ben Walsh was also causing havoc with good runs in behind and nearly gave us the lead when he looked to have rounded the keeper who took him down and took the red rather than concede the goal which turned out to be the right choice.
We had some good chances to win the game but the Portlaoise sub keeper was in fine form and made a great save when the ball dropped to Ciaran Shanley in their box.
To their credit Portlaoise never stopped playing and nearly got a winner themselves only for a great save by Rory Matthews.
We made one last chance when Ryan Dempsey who played a great game drilled a low cross into the box from the byline but Jamie Tarleton couldn’t get his attempt on target.
Our Clarkes Bar man of the match was Tommy Geoghegan who was brilliant all game.
