 Chris Scannell went close for Cliftonville |
Donegal Celtic held Cliftonville to a scoreless draw in the first ever league meeting between the sides on Saturday. In the first half Chris Scannell shot wide, John O'Loughlin hooked over and Ronan Scannell went close for the Reds.
At the other end Gavin Melaugh fired over from the edge of the area and Ciaran Donaghy's free header was well saved by goalkeeper John Connolly.
Declan Browne saved Liam Fleming's penalty on 73 minutes while Connolly saved Paul McVeigh's long range effort.
Cliftonville's penalty was awarded after Browne brought down striker Mark Holland inside the area.
After the game Reds manager Eddie Patterson, who was serving the second of an eight game touchline ban, suggested Browne may have been sent off for the offence.
"They defended well and we couldn't break them down but we knew what to expect. John Connolly made some great saves for us.
"Being banned from the dugout I cannot get messages across to the players but I just have to take it on the chin.
"It is good for our players and supporters that we are in a cup final and the team thoroughly deserve it," added Patterson.
E-mail this to a friend 
Printable version 