Kavanagh conjures Cup magic for Mullingar

Paddy Cotter Cup Quarter Final: Mullingar Athletic AFC 3, Monksland United FC 1

Mulingar Athletic's run of away cup fixtures continued this past weekend, with a trip to Athlone to face Monksland United in the quarter-final of the Paddy Cotter Cup.

Having tasted league defeat there earlier in the season this could have been where the Mullingar men's recent winning streak came to an end. But that wasn't the case as the visitors looked the better side for most of this cup tie.

This came despite falling a goal behind in the opening moments of the match. Following a corner for the hosts, a cross into the box evaded the Athletic defence to hit the back of the net.

This deficit only last for a matter of minutes until Tadgh Nolan, Keith Hope and Nathan Scally crafter an equaliser. It was Scally that finished smartly on five minutes to even the tie.

Athletic dominated possession, with Nolan missing a few glorious chances.

At the back Liam Brennan was majestic at centre half, brother Emmett has been in great form of late. It was very regrettable to see him leave the field of play injured later in the game, during the second half, replaced by the returning Oisin Tyrrell.

Jack O'Donnell made a welcome comeback to the starting line up, with an impressive performance. His return is a great benefit to the squad as the fixtures pile up.

Jamie Loran is another who contributed greatly to the win, his work rate was very impressive.

Both sides remained level at the interval. With Monksland having a great chance before half-time which was brilliantly save by the excellent Craig Sweeney in goal.

In midfield, Brian Kavanagh, Juraj Zachej and captain Ben Shaw were commanding throughout, especially in the second half. It was Kavanagh that made the breakthrough in the 65th minute with an absolute rocket into the top score from 25 yards, a truly stunning strike.

Jordan Scally and Dorian McDonald were introduced to add extra impetus to the side as Monksland rallied.

Nathan Scally was having a fantastic game in attack, creating some excellent scoring opportunities through out the match.

Athletic's third came from Scally but was crafted following a moment of magic from Hope, a wonderful back heel flick set Scally through on goal to score.

This was an entertaining cup tie with some excellent football on display. Athletic continue their fine form with another victory and the exciting prospect of a semi-final in the Paddy Cotter Cup.

There were some excellent performances from Mullingar, Liam Brennan, Nathan Scally and Ben Shaw were all excellent, but Brian Kavanagh just shades with a masterful display and stunning goal.