Impressive Avondale increase lead at top

AVONDALE UNITED are in pole position to reclaim the Beamish Stout Munster Senior League Premier Division title for the first time since the 2008/2009 season after increasing their lead at the top over the weekend.

The Dales were the better team throughout against bottom side Leeds at Leeds Park on Saturday and were well worth the three points in a hard fought 2-1 victory.

John Cotter’s side were 1-0 up at the break when Mark O’Sullivan got on the end of a Michael Mulconry free-kick after 32 minutes.

New signing Graham McCarthy got the second 11 minutes from time. Keith O’Sullivan pulled one back for Leeds three minutes later.

St Mary’s are now in second place along with Douglas Hall on 17 points — seven points behind Avondale — but they have two more games played after defeating holders Rockmount 2-1 at St Mary’s Park. The defeat leaves the holders 11 points off the top. Douglas Hall also dropped points as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Midleton at Knockgriffin Park on Friday night.

Blarney United defeated Everton 2-1 at Everton Park with Jonathan Coker and Richard O’Brien scoring, while a Dean Grainger penalty saw Mayfield United defeat College Corinthians 1-0 at Mayfield Park.

In the First Division Carrigaline United trounced Ballincollig 8-0 at Ballea Park.UCC are up to second – two points off the top – after hammering Ballinhassig 5-1 at The Farm.