FOOTBALL: A second-half penalty from Ryan Curran ensured Finn Harps secured a vital three points at a wet and windy Finn Park this evening.
Harps had failed to beat Longford in any of their six previous League and FAI Cup matches.
However, Harps ended that dismal run and deservedly so thanks to a well-taken penalty from former Derry City striker Curran.
Curran was lively throughout and perhaps could’ve scored a couple of goals earlier in the game, but was thwarted due to a mixture of some superb defending and wasteful finishing.
Harps were keen to record a home win following a narrow defeat to Shamrock Rovers last time out.
That coupled with an away defeat to Dundalk and a stalemate at The Showgrounds meant it was an important fixture for Ollie Horgan’s side against a Longford side that have struggled thus far this season.
In truth, Harps bossed proceedings throughout this game, and really took the game to Tony Cousin’s side right from the get go.
After a lovely through ball from McNamee, Curran raced clear and while his effort beat the Longford keeper it was cleared off the line.
That was the best chance of the half with Harps struggling to create clear cut chances despite their dominance.
Adam Hanlon then had a great chance to score early in the second-half but he squandered his effort.
However, just two minutes later Ethan Boyle was fouled inside the box and the referee awarded the penalty.
Ryan Curran made no mistake from the spot and Harps got the lead they deserved.
Longford pressed hard for an equaliser but never really troubled Richard Brush, and Harps earned another vital three points.
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