Cotter’s late winner seals Avondale back-to-back triumphs

JOHN COTTER was the toast of Avondale United last night after his last-gasp winner helped the Leesiders retain the FAI Intermediate Cup at rain-swept Turner’s Cross.

Both sides had their chances to claim the title following an edgy and sometimes frantic battle, and with the clock ticking ominously towards extra-time, the Avondale skipper popped up in the five yard box in the 91st minute to knock home Eoghan Lougheed’s corner. In so doing, the ‘Dale became the first Cork club to win back-to-back Intermediate Cups.

Cotter’s late strike will be the lasting memory from a final where Bangor will rue some golden opportunities, most notably in the 79th minute. Keith Madden ghosted in behind the ‘Dale defence and, with just David O’Keeffe standing between him and glory, the forward turned his shot wide.