Bray Wanderers defeat William O'Connor's UCD to take control in play-off semi-final
Buncrana’s William O’Connor and UCD face uphill battle after first-leg loss, as Bray gain crucial advantage ahead of the return leg at the UCD Bowl
Buncrana native William O’Connor’s UCD fell to a 2-0 defeat in the first leg of the First Division play-off semi-final at the Carlisle Grounds to Bray Wanderers, putting the Wicklow side in a strong position ahead of the return leg.
In front of a crowd of over 1,200, Bray took control after a shaky start. Guillermo Almirall opened the scoring in the first half, capitalising on a low cross from Kieran Cruise.
Despite UCD's early pressure, including a close chance from a Ronan Finn set-piece, Bray found their rhythm and dominated much of the game.
The hosts doubled their lead in the second half when substitute Conor Knight set up Cristian Magerusan, who finished calmly into the bottom corner. UCD pushed hard for a response, with substitute Ciaran Behan testing Bray goalkeeper Jimmy Corcoran, but they couldn’t break through.
Bray will head into the second leg at the UCD Bowl with confidence, holding a solid advantage as both teams battle for a chance to face Drogheda United in the promotion/relegation playoff.
UCD, though, will be eager to turn things around in front of their home crowd on Monday.