Derry City beat Finn Harps for the second time in quick succession in extra-time to reach the EA Sports Cup semi-final for the second successive season. A superb David Parkhouse brace for Derry’s second goal early in the first half of extra-time sa
Derry City beat Finn Harps for the second time in quick succession in extra-time to reach the EA Sports Cup semi-final for the second successive season.
A superb David Parkhouse brace for Derry’s second goal early in the first half of extra-time saw Declan Devine’s men progress into the next stage of the competition.
Harps, who were diabolical three days prior, looked to be on their way to a famous victory on the Lone Moor Road after Nathan Boyle gave them the lead after 53 minutes. After a lukewarm first half, the deadlock was broken when Harps hit the front on 54 minutes.
Nathan Boyle securing the goal against his former side when Colm Deasy lofted the ball across the 18-yard box and with the City defence at sea, Boyle steered into the bottom corner.
However, Derry were far from down and out and replied with seven minutes remaining. Seeing off the Harps full-back, the French forward swept an excellent cross into the path of emerging David Parkhouse, who couldn't miss from three yards.
And Parkhouse wasn't finished there, the striker getting his second in extra-time to give Derry the lead. It should have been fairly simple for McGinley in the Harps goal, but found acres from his touchline, the goalkeeper was found out fairly quickly as Parkhouse pinched possession and bundled home.
Reduced to ten men, following Mark Coyle second yellow card, Harps saw three chances cleared off the line in what looked to be a promising night for Ballybofey outfit.
