Tresson own goal gifts UCD point

UCD 1, Bray Wanderers 1

Robbie Doyle, who joined UCD from Bray in the close season, claimed College’s 86th-minute equaliser.

His shot was parried by Bray goalkeeper Matt Gregg, with the rebound striking the unfortunate Tresson to trickle into the net.

In an intriguing contest, Bray enjoyed the most possessions but were almost caught out on the break several times before half time.

With Irish international Damien Duff a spectator, it was fitting that Bray left-winger Paul Forsyth’s clever footwork created the first opening of the game on 16 minutes.

Forsyth skinned Alan Mahon to cross. UCD keeper Barry Ryan could only parry the ball away under pressure from Jason Byrne, and Stephen Fox shot wide.

Minutes later, Fox again shot wide after Forsyth worked the oracle again.

A poor clearance from Gregg handed UCD their first opening, Sean Finn heading just wide from Robbie Martin’s cross.

On another set-up by Forsyth, Fox shot against the feet of Ryan.

Bray were almost caught out at the back when Thomas Morgan gave the ball away in midfield to put Alan McNall through on goal, but his attempted chip sailed inches over the bar.

Bray had the perfect start to the second half with the lead goal after just 25 seconds. Byrne was given time and space inside the UCD area, after collecting a Keith Long flick, to turn and fire a low drive past Ryan and into the right-hand corner of the net.

Bray were then prevented from winning the match in stoppage time when Ryan made a brilliant save to push Morgan’s shot out for a corner.

UCD: B. Ryan; Mahon, Purdy, McDonnell, McAuley; Doyle, Doolin, McNally, D. Ryan; Finn, R. Martin.

BRAY WANDERERS: Gregg; Tresson, Lynch, Doohan, Keogh; Long (Ryan 71), Gormley, Morgan, Forsyth; Fox (O’Connor h/t), Byrne.

Referee: A. Kelly (Cork).