'We took the chance and held out to get the win' - Gerard McGranaghan

Kilmacrennan Celtic manager Gerard McGranaghan is delighted with his side’s progression in the Ulster Junior Cup on Sunday.  

The Kilmacrennan men booked their spot in the next round of the competition courtesy of a 1-0 victory over Keadue Rovers in Letterkenny on Sunday.  

McGranaghan described the game as a tough battle against Keadue but overall felt the outcome of the contest was deserved. 

“It was a really tough game,” said McGranaghan. “Keadue Rovers is a tough team so we had to battle a lot there, especially in the second half, but overall, I think we deserved the win.” 

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In an evenly-balanced clash, where clear-cut chances in front of goal were few and far between, a strike late in the closing stages of the opening half through striker Chris Dillon was enough to earn the victory for the Kilmacrennan outfit.  

“It was a good, well-worked goal. We didn’t create a whole lot of chances but I do think we created a bit better than them (Keadue Rovers), but it’s all about taking your opportunities at the end of the day and we took the chance and held out to get the win.” 

With the game firmly in the melting pot and approaching the closing stages, Keadue Rovers began to apply significant pressure on Gerard McGranaghan’s side's backline.  

Despite this, they remained resolute and the Kilmacrenan manager was pleased with the way his men saw out the result.  

“Yeah, it was always going to be the way. We knew that if it stayed at 1-0 then they were going to push up, I think they went with four up top at the end. The boys defended very well there, I don't think we gave much away so we’re delighted with that and we’ll take the 1-0 win and move on.” 

Victory on Sunday booked Kilmacrennan’s spot on the draw for the next round of the Ulster Junior Cup.  

Gerard McGranaghan is delighted with his side’s progression, mentioning that they haven’t been past the second round in recent years, however, their attention is now fixed on a big clash with Cockhill Celtic.  

“It’s great to progress in the cup. I was just saying before the game that Kilmacrennan in the last four or five years hasn't gotten past the second round of this cup so it’s nice to get a win in this cup and move on.  

“We’ve got Cockhill Celtic now in the FAI Cup so that’s another big one.”