Finn Harps . . 2
Bray Wanderers . . . 0
HARPS ended a four-game losing streak when they got the better of Bray Wanderers in the Bank Holiday Monday meeting at Finn Park.
Two first half goals paved the way for a victory that has been a long time coming, and against a good Bray side, this was a notable result.
Harps went in front on 12 minutes when Bernardo Monteiro’s near post corner was glanced into his own net by the unfortunate Dean O’Shea.
The Bray defender almost made amends later in the half, delivering a long-throw which found Daniel Ring in front of goal but his effort was steered just wide.
Bray, and Ring in particular caused Harps more than a few problems in that first half but it was the home side who struck again on 38 minutes.
Monteiro was involved again, his cross inside the box striking the arm of defender Benjamin Fagbemi and a penalty was awarded. Joel Bradley-Walsh’s well struck effort was parried by keeper James Corcoran but the ball spun over the line as a glut of players ran in for the rebound.
Bradley-Walsh’s goal crowned a quality display from the centre half whose presence inside his own box was a key factor in this win.
Harps keeper Corey Sheridan, returning to the starting eleven, also deserves praise for a confident display.
Bray got themselves right back into the contest when substitute Ifunanyachi Achara finished well on 74 minutes.
But the visitors were unable to find an equaliser and there was to be no repeat of the 2-2 draw at the Carlisle Grounds last month.
The victory – only Harps’ second in 12 games – was a welcome result and ensures Kevin McHugh’s side remain in touch with the play-off places.