McArdle's second half double secures Woodview priceless three points at home to Virginia

NEFL Division Two

Woodview Celtic 3-2 Virginia Celtic

A second half double from substitute Shea McArdle helped Woodview Celtic to a priceless win over Virginia Celtic in Muirhevnamor on Sunday.

Aware that Redeemer Celtic had won their match in Oldcastle earlier in the day, Conor Macken sent his charges into war knowing they needed a victory to return to the top of the table on goal difference.

And they started well, only to concede in disastrous circumstances midway through the first half, having been guilty of gifting possession away in midfield.

Dennis Cholach hauled them back on level terms, but Virginia struck again before the turnaround to lead 2-1 at the break.

The second period was a dogfight as both teams sought to gain a foothold, though Woodview finally took control and levelled on 70 minutes through McArdle.

And the same player, within minutes of the game kicking-off, landed the decisive blow, nodding home Jason Myles’ right-wing cross at the back post.

A crucial win ahead of next week’s clash with Johnstown, who also boast a 100% winning record.

Woodview Celtic: Seán Smyth; Deane Browne, Daniel Mulligan, John Duffy; Conor Mackin, Conor Macken, Robert Mackin; Sheriff Ayoade, Stephen Begley; Dennis Cholach, Niall Mackin

Subs: Caolan Dines, Shea McArdle, Jason Myles, Liam Lindsay, Shane Taaffe