Magnificent Seven for Rangers as they snatch win over Armagh

Twice they trailed opponents Armagh Rovers in a highly entertaining encounter at Scarva Park but they were determined not to succumb to their first defeat of 2014.

This was yet another immensely impressive display from Mo Brown’s side, carving out a victory at the expense of a talented Armagh Rovers side who sit third in Mid-Ulster Division One, a place above fourth-placed Scarva.

Rovers dominated the early exchanges and took the lead in the opening five minutes.

However, Scarva began to ask questions as Derek Patton embarked on a surging run down the left wing which was halted at the expense of a corner. Greg Douglas’ set-piece sailed into the heart of the six yard area and Dean McCammon steered the ball into the net from close range.

McCammon turned provider for Scarva’s next goal, producing a pinpoint cross which the advancing Derek Patton guided precisely into the corner of the net with an astute header.

McCammon produced another dangerous cross but this time there was no one there in the blue and maroon of Scarva to take advantage.

The visitors were awarded a penalty for hand ball but Ritchie McGivern made a superb save. Minutes later, however, Rovers levelled with a goal from a corner.

The Rovers keeper couldn’t hold a venomous shot by Kyle Jennett. Derek Patton reacted sharply to reach the loose ball but the keeper was equal to the challenge and the shot was saved.

Scarva bombarded the Armagh side’s goal in the early stages of the second half. A Greg Douglas free kick was cleared off the line and the hosts were forced to scramble the ball off the goal line to prevent efforts from Derek Patton and Dean McCammon restoring the home side’s lead.

It was the visitors who scored next, leaving Scarva trailing for a second time.

The see saw encounter had more drama in store. A Scarva corner was headed on to the post by Dean McCammon and as it rebounded back into play Derek Patton lashed it emphatically into the net.

Neil Anderson’s well executed shot was saved as Scarva intensified their search for a winning goal.

When it arrived it was courtesy of terrific endeavour from Dean McCammon who showed poise and determination to retain possession under pressure and slip the ball to Mark Baird. He played an incisive short pass to Greg Douglas who rifled an explosive low shot into the corner of the net from the edge of the penalty area.

Derek Patton claimed the Man of the Match accolade with an industrious display topped off with two goals while fellow central midfielder Neil Anderson was also outstanding.