De Courcey Albion crashed out of the Presidents Cup yesterday after going down 2-1 to Inniscarra outfit Strand United. Strand started the stronger of the 2 teams using space well and making good use of the wings. Albion looked a bit lost at times and lacked any composure on the ball. Against the run of play on 20′, Albion created an attack and won a free 30 yards out. John Duggan swung the ball in towards John Hipwell who created confusion with the keeper when he looked like he would hit the ball, but he just left it roll over the line. 1-0 Albion. Albion looked to have gained control of the game until on 30′ Strand were awarded a penalty for a push in the area. They converted well to make it 1-1 at half time.

Albion started the 2nd half well with some good play between John Duggan, Conan Dillon & John Hipwell. A momentary lapse from the away side presented Strand with a free header in the box making the score 2-1 with 15′ to go. Albion switched to 3-4-3 in an attempt to take the game to strand but it was the home team who finished out the game on top & the more likely to score.

A dissapointing & premature end to the divisional cup for Albion who will now look to the game against Glen Celtic this saturday as hope for a turning point to the poor form over the last few games.

HT: 1-1

Team: Michael Walsh, Jody MacNamara, Conor Hurley, Colum Walsh, Colm O’Donovan, James O’Driscoll, John Duggan, Jason O’Riordan, Conan Dillon, John Hipwell, Noel Twomey.

Subs: Declan Murray for Jason O’Riordan (55′), JP Hayes for Jody MacNamara (75′)