De Courcey’s 2nd friendly in a week proved to be unsuccesful against Cathedral Celtic of Division 2. Celtic started well, moving the ball around in midfield and not showing many signs of weakness on the park. They were rewarded on the 12th minute when their midfielder had time to have a crack from well outside the box to the surprise of Albion keeper Michael Walsh to put themselves 1 up. From this point Albion seemed like the better team, attacking in numbers and defending extremely well. John Duggan went off 10 mins before half time and his replacement John Hipwell helped Darren Daly put the ball in the net though the goal was disallowed due to being offside. A few minuted before half time Cathedral were 2-0 from a corner when an unmarked player had nothing to do but head the ball in.

The 2nd half started well for Albion, spending most of their time in the opposing half. Cathedral Celtic found themselves down to 10 men with 20 minuted left when their left full headbutted Shane Horan. John Duggan who came back on at half time, hit the target from the free but was saved well by the keeper. Albion pushed on and came close on a few occasions and on another day would have made the opportunities count. With 5 minutes to go the away side sealed the game after a break away on the right had the ball in the net again.

Albion will see the friendlies as a learning curve and go into the last 10 league games very optimistic.

Team: Michael Walsh, Jody MacNamara, Conor Hurley, Colm O’Donovan, Colum Walsh, JP Hayes, John Duggan, Shane Horan, Declan Murray, James O’Driscoll, Darren Daly.

Subs: John Hipwell (John Duggan ’35), John Duggan (Darren Daly ’45), Jamie Daly (James O’Driscoll ’65), Martin Ryan (John Duggan 75′), Kevin O’Neill (Jody MacNamara 80′). Ger O’Connell.