Sligo Rovers and Drogheda United couldn’t be separated on Saturday night in the Showgrounds, in a game that both sides really needed to win as their battle against the drop intensifies.
Drogheda took a surprise lead when new signing Sean Russell scored what can only be described as a wonder-goal. A long free-kick from goalkeeper Stephen McGuinness eventually fell to Russell, and he let fly with an unstoppable half-volley with his left foot to beat Michael Schlingermann.
The goal came against the run of play, but credit to Sligo as they bounced back straight away when Rhys McCabe, a recent signing from Dunfermline Athletic, was sent down the right-hand side, beat his man and calmly slotted it past McGuinness into the corner.
Sligo boss Gerard Lyttle was frustrated with his sides lack of fortune in front of goal, “I can’t fault the lads for effort. We totally dominated the game. Had all the chances and their keeper had the game of his life. We’ve also hit the woodwork a few times.”
“Their goal was a great goal, he caught it lovely and hats of to the lad,” he said of Sean Russell’s wonder-strike.
New signing Benny Igiehon made his debut from the start, and Lyttle was pleased with what he saw from him, “Benny had a great debut and was a real threat all night, only thing missing was a goal from him. He will do well in this league can be a hand full for defenders.”
“Listen it was a huge improvement from last week and to be fair we didn’t get them breaks you get when at top end of table.”
He wasn’t best pleased with some of the officiating on the night, especially when they had a goal ruled out, “We have had another disallowed goal which I’m my opinion was poor. The linesman has given it for the ball being out of play and when he watches it over he’ll realise it’s the wrong call. Another one that has cost us three points. To many for my liking this season against us.”
“Rhys took his goal well. We will stay positive and build on the performance and hopefully the wins will come.”