Athlone’s smashing start to the SSE Airtricity League First Division season continued at the UCD Bowl last Friday night.
Philly Gorman struck two goals to seal a stirring comeback by the midlanders, who have now registered seven points from their first three games. A first-half goal from the hard-working Conor Cannon gave the Students the lead before Athlone’s late show.
Early on Athlone custodian Shane Cusack had to be alert when denying Cannon as the home side probed. Cannon was causing the visitors problems and a deflected effort struck the crossbar.
Gorman twice went close for Town before UCD hit the front in the 40th minute. Jamie Doyle battled well to craft a chance which was converted by Cannon.
Eleven minutes after the restart Marco Chindea was fouled by Sean Coyne, who was red carded for denying Athlone a goalscoring opportunity. Daniel Tobin’s clearance denied Gorman, who also headed a Philly Hand cross narrowly wide.
Parity was eventually restored with eight minutes remaining when Gorman scored following Gavin Boyne’s assist. Gorman then added the decisive blow in stoppage time as Athlone’s patience was rewarded.
UCD: Corbett; Tobin, Kouugun, McLaughlin, Coyne; O’Neill, Watts, Sloggett; Mulhall, Cannon (Swan 60 ), Doyle (Belhout 84 ).
Athlone Town: Cusack; Quigley, Dunne, Collins, Hand; Foley, Mulroney (Boyne 46 ), Chindea, Doyle; Coughlan, Gorman.
Referee: P Brady (Dublin )
