Tommy Walsh impressed with Finn Harps U-20 turnaround against Waterford FC

Tommy Walsh says his Finn Harps U-20s showed real grit as well as skill as they came from behind to eliminate Waterford FC from the EA Sports League of Ireland Enda McGuill Cup. 

Harps young guns found themselves under the cosh in the first period and were perhaps fortunate enough to find themselves only one down at the changeover. 

However, Max Johnston capitalised on a Waterford mistake seconds after the restart to draw the hosts level. That intervention spurred Harps and they really lifted their game. 

In a fantastic second-half spectacle, both sides created chances but couldn’t find a winner as the clock ticked towards the end of five minutes of injury time. 

But just when it looked like extra-time was on the cards, Nathan McDaid struck the game’s decisive blow. 

“It’s the best way to win the game,” admitted Walsh after. “In the first-half we just didn’t have enough penetration. We knocked the ball about well but in the second-half, bringing Shaunie Bradley on, it allowed us to go with a big front two. 

“And that pushed them back that little bit more. We created chances in the second-half and it couldn’t have got off to a better start with Max equalising. And like I said, it was a great way to win it at the end”. 

Waterford came to Navenny Street on Saturday with a bit of a reputation and were the fancied side to advance. But Harps had other ideas. 

“They are a very good side - they topped their section and were so well organised. That’s twice now we’ve got two really good wins and performances at Finn Park in the last few weeks. 

“The seniors had a fine win over Kerry on Thursday night and it was nice to keep our end of the bargain up as well. The club is in a really good place, I feel. 

“I’ve said it before, there is a lot of talent in Donegal and in the academy. Hopefully the boys will keep working hard as the pathway and opportunity is there to progress to the first team. That’s the exciting thing”.