In a high-tempo and physical encounter between Letterkenny Rovers and Fanad Utd, the first half showcased intense pressure from Fanad, with play predominantly in the middle of the pitch.
Both keepers had a relatively quiet half, with most shots originating from frees. Noteworthy opportunities for Fanad came from Daibhid Lynch and Darragh O’Doherty, while Rovers had their chances through Gareth Temple, Jason Doherty, Danny Hall, Keelan Dunleavy, and Mohammed Touchami.
The breakthrough for Rovers came right on the 45th minute when Darragh Morrison capitalised on Conor O’Donnell's free-kick, flicked on by Jason Doherty, to slot the ball past Fanad keeper Brian Gallagher.
The second half witnessed Letterkenny Rovers growing in strength, dominating the chances. Conor O’Donnell had a promising opportunity on the 49th minute, saved well by Gallagher. Moments later, a left-wing delivery from Temple forced Gallagher to stretch for another crucial save.
On the 58th minute, O’Donnell's strike from the left wing again tested Gallagher, who pushed it into the path of Darragh Morrison, but he couldn't convert cleanly. Mohammed Touchami had a chance on the 62nd minute but struck the ball over the bar.
Unfortunately, Morrison had to leave the field on the 65th minute due to a head injury, making way for Evan Gibbons. Despite continued efforts from Rovers, with Doherty and Hall having good chances, Gallagher's resilience kept the ball out.
The game concluded with Letterkenny Rovers securing a hard-fought 1-0 victory, thanks to Darragh Morrison's first-half breakthrough.
Referee: Barry Hunter