FANAD UNITED ended Youghal’s FAI Intermediate Cup adventure in Donegal, yesterday. However, the Cork side will feel that they were unfortunate not to progress to the semi finals.

They were much the better side in the first half, but just could not find the target, and in the end, the missed opportunities cost them dearly.

Captain Barry Goggin had a shot blocked early on, while David Kearns’ in swinging corner was touched onto the crossbar.

And Damien Hennessy and Alan Healy also had chances for the Munster Senior League side, as Fanad were clearly second best in the first quarter.

Fanad produced only one real chance before the half time break, but Darragh Patton’s shot was stopped by Kieran Fleming.

Youghal were dealt a huge blow when key striker Healy was forced to retire at the interval, having picked up a nasty knock on the face.

The second half was a different story as Fanad took full control. Shane Sweeney fired them ahead after 55 minutes with a wonderfully struck free from 25 yards. Fleming then tipped over a Martin McAteer free before Fanad got their second in the 71st minute when Patton headed home from close range.

Youghal were reduced to 10 men on 75 minutes when Stephen Kiely was given his marching orders following an incident involving Fanad midfielder Arthur Lynch. However, Kiely was unfortunate to go, and Lynch, who had already been booked, was lucky to stay on.

Fanad, who won the trophy in 1988 and 1995, will fancy their chances of going all the way, especially if they get a home draw in the semi finals.

FANAD UNITED: G. Patton, Gorman, Sweeney, Doherty, Deery, Friel, D. Gallagher, Lynch, McAteer, Barrett, D. Patton. Subs: B. Gallagher for Friel (78 mins), McBride for Lynch (82 mins), Kavanagh for Barrett (84 mins).
YOUGHAL: Fleming, Kiely, Hennessy, Murphy, Horgan, Kearns, Goggin, Corcoran, Forrest, Healy, Coleman. Subs. O’Driscoll for Healy (45 mins), Whyte for Coleman (72 mins).
Referee: D. Wogan (Donegal)