Kelly awarded player of the month

Derry City defender Darren Kelly has been named the eircom/Soccer Writers Association of Ireland Player of the Month for September.

The 27-year-old was a starring member of the Candystripes defence, which won plaudits for their fortitude in a memorable month for the Northerners.

Kelly was at the heart of the back four for Derry, when they held Paris St Germain to a scoreless draw at the Brandywell. And while the second leg in Paris ended in a 2-0 win for the French side, Kelly still produced a stirring display in difficult circumstances.

September also saw Kelly slot home the winning penalty in the League Cup final shootout win over Shelbourne at the Brandywell. That was a particularly strong defensive display from Stephen Kenny's side considering that they were down to nine men for most of extra time.