Cork City’s new signing Sean Maguire showed why there was such a buzz about him coming back to Leeside as he almost single-handedly dragged his side back into this tie. The newly crowned champions, Cork City, had to fight tooth and nail to maintain their unbeaten home record this season as they were held to a 2-2 draw by Finn Harps at Turner’s Cross on Friday night.

After three wins in a row Harps made the long trip to Turner’s Cross to take on the already crowned champions to try and keep that fine run going and continue their renewed hopes of play-off spot. With the title already secured the home team gave a start to a number of fringe players with perhaps something to prove for next season which wouldn’t help Harps hopes of victory.

The home side started well but Harps, who had given them a guard of honour onto the pitch, responded with a Tony McNamee goal in the 11th minute, an excellent finish from the Harps captain and a great start for Harps. Patrick Ferry fired a shot just wide in the 22nd minute but Cork hit back and forced two fine saves from Oisín Cooney and an even better one from the Harps keeper in the 35th minute to keep his team ahead. But just when it looked like Harps would hold on to their single goal lead they went one better with a second one on the stroke of half-time, Success Edogun adding to his season’s total with a fine finish.

The second-half followed a similar pattern to the first. But when things hadn’t changed on the hour mark Cork made four changes and four minutes later one of them Sean Maguire pulled a goal back. And after sustained pressure Maguire equalised in the 75th minute from a free-kick after it took a big deflection.

The question now was could Harps hang on to a point or would Cork push on to take all three points. Harps defended well and did hang on for the point and could have even nicked it at the death when McNamee shot wide when Edogun slipped him through. All in all, a good result for Darren Murphy’s side against the league champions and enough to keep alive those play-off hopes.

Maguire's Impact

Cork City’s Sean Maguire played a pivotal role in the match as he made a significant impact when he came on as a substitute, proving to be the difference in a crucial game. Maguire’s two goals came in quick succession, the first a well-taken finish, the second a deflected free-kick that left the Harps goalkeeper helpless.

Maguire’s goals proved to be the difference between victory and defeat. His performance showcased his talent and potential, demonstrating why there was such a buzz around his return to Leeside, and it seems Maguire is certainly living up to the hype.

Finn Harps’ Resilience

Finn Harps can hold their heads high as they made a brave attempt to break into the play-off places. They were the dominant force in the first half, demonstrating their resolve and determination, and deserved their two-goal lead at the break. They came from behind to secure a point against the champions and will be happy with their performance.

The Game: A Look at the Key Moments

First Half

The first half was a tense affair, with both sides determined to secure victory. Finn Harps’ early goal from Tony McNamee set the tone and put pressure on Cork City. However, City kept pushing, creating several chances to equalize. Harps were able to weather the storm, however, and were rewarded with a second goal in the first minute of stoppage time, a crucial moment that gave them a two-goal lead going into half-time.

Second Half

The second half saw Cork City make a significant change with the introduction of Sean Maguire and other substitutes. City’s attacking intentions were clear from the outset, and their efforts were eventually rewarded with Maguire’s two goals. Maguire’s goals shifted the momentum of the game and ultimately secured a point for Cork.

What Next?

Both teams have crucial games coming up, so this draw may have significant implications for both sides. Cork City will look to build on this draw as they prepare for their next challenge, while Finn Harps will be hoping to build on their recent strong performance and make a late push for a play-off spot.

The Road to the Playoffs

Finn Harps, despite their impressive recent run, have their work cut out for them if they are to reach the play-offs. The gap between Harps and Athlone, who are currently holding the final play-off spot, is not insurmountable. But, with the season coming to a close, every point is crucial.

Harps will need to capitalize on their impressive form and ensure they are on the winning side more often if they want to make it to the playoffs. They have already shown that they can compete with the best, and their resilient performance against Cork City serves as a testament to their ability to pull off upsets.

With a few crucial games remaining, Finn Harps will be hoping to make a late run for the play-offs and secure a place in the promotion race.