Trim Celtic lose grip on Challenge Cup

Hopes of an all-Meath NEFL Challenge Cup final were extinguished at Marian Park, Drogheda today when Bellurgan defeated Trim Celtic 3-2 in the second of the semi-finals. 

Navan Cosmos booked their place in the final on Friday night but Trim Celtic were unable to repeat the feat today.

Both sides ended the game a man short with Paul Campbell of Trim Celtic and Bellurgan's John Smith shown red cards towards the end in seperate incidents.  

The Trim side were level for a spell in the opening half but never went in front and Bellurgan ensured they would progress with some clinical finishing. 

Paddy Quinn gave the Louth side an early lead with a well-taken goal but Paul Campbell equalised for Trim Celtic with a bullet-like header. 

Trim Celtic enjoyed a lenghty spell of dominance however just before the break they were hit with a sucker-punch when Danny O'Connor netted for Bellurgan to leave it 2-1 at the interval. 

In the opening minutes of the second-half Paddy O'Reilly's side were hit with another big blow when Ciaran Sheelan scored direct from a free outside the box. 

Trim Celtic never stopped battling and they pulled a goal back through Paul Munnelly. 

However, Bellurgan held on to take the crown off Trim Celtic who were left wondering what might have been.