Finn Harps reserves produced another impressive display as they overcame Bonagee United in the Donegal News league cup.
The game was settled by a second half Steven O’Donnell penalty after the lively Daragh Black who impressed throughout the match was brought down inside the box.
Harps controlled the game for long periods and enjoyed lengthy spells of possession but squandered a number of clear cut chances to go ahead.
Daragh Black was guilty of missing two one on one opportunities while Matt Harkin was also guilty of being wasteful in the final third for Finn Harps.
Bonagee were always a threat on the counter attack and went close twice with Ryan McFadden hitting crossbar after a sensational long range strike at goal.
The game was turned on it’s head early in the second half when referee Vincent McLaughlin gave Thomas McBride a straight red card for what looked like a fairly innocuous challenge.
The Harps management team of Sam Hegarty and Paddy Foy were clearly disappointed by the referee’s decision, but they re-arranged their side bringing Steven O’Donnell into a more central role in midfield and this move worked a treat for the Ballybofey outfit.
They were awarded their penalty with over 20 minutes to play and while Bonagee pushed forward searching for an equalizer Harps always looked dangerous on the counter attack and held on for an impressive and deserved victory.
Next up for Finn Harps reserves is another clash with Bonagee on Sunday at Finn Park in the Ulster Senior League. Kick off 2pm.