Trojans close in on league leaders Park Bar

Don Bosco’s meanwhile moved off the bottom following a victory over Culmore while Oxford defeated Tristar to keep their hopes of a top six finish alive.

Results - Phoenix 2, Trojans 4; Don Bosco’s 2, Culmore 1; Oxford 5, Tristar 1.

Phoenix Athletic 2

Trojans 4

A minute’s silence was held before the game in memory of legendary Derry Athletic coach, Jim O’Hea and former Phoenix striker, Shane Gallagher who both passed away recently.

Played on a poor pitch both teams started well trying to play good football and it was the youthful Trojans team who took the lead when Phoenix defender, Leonard unfortunately turned the ball into his own net.

Phoenix soon levelled when Kevin Kelly raced clear and finished well. Gareth Doherty then put Phoenix in front powerfully heading home from Healey’s cross. Just before the break Trojans drew level when Deery’s free kick was saved by stand-in keeper, Kealan Kelly, however, Adam McCreadie reacted quickest to squeeze the ball home.

The second half saw Trojans control the majority of the game and they went in front when Paul Doherty used all his experience to win his side a penalty and Ciaran Harkin made no mistake from the spot.

Trojans sealed all three points late on when Doherty was played through and finished well to keep the Creggan men in the title race.

Don Bosco’s 2

Culmore 1

Bosco’s started well and when Barry Maxwell broke down the wing he put a superb ball into the box which was met by the head of Arny Doherty to score the opening goal.

Not long afterwards Doherty was involved again as he crossed into the feet of Mark Mulkendi who slotted it into the bottom corner past goalkeeper Christopher Barnaby.

In the second half Bosco’s took their foot off the pedal, inviting pressure onto themselves once again and allowing Culmore to take advantage.

Poor marking at a throw-in saw the Culmore side finally break through with David Healy tapping in to make it 2-1. Culmore striving for an equaliser came close hitting the post then having the rebound cleared off the line by Bosco’s left back Lee Toland.