Monaghan United 2-0 Longford Town

Goals late in each half by Darren McKenna and Stephen McCrossan sealed a 2-0 win over a poor Longford Town at Kingspan Century Park to continue Monaghan United’s First Division resurgence.

United capitalised on some sustained corner-kick pressure to make their breakthrough in the 42nd minute when Aidan Lynch’s incisive pass allowed Darren McKenna to turn on the ball and blast home from 12 yards.

A more direct and urgent Longford threatened an equaliser in the second half, Liam Lynch wasting a glorious 72nd minute chance when he headed wide after substitute Darren Concannon found him with a majestic cross.

Indiscipline from Town captain Ray Kenny – two bookings, both for dissent – reduced his side to ten men after 80 minutes.

United capitalised, McKenna dispossessing Tom King in the 87th minute and setting up Dave Freeman. Freeman’s shot was blocked by keeper Anthony Fennelly but the ball ran to McCrossan who made no mistake from close range and proceeded to celebrate the winner in acrobatic style.