Warrington Town retained the Peace Cup but they were made to work hard for their victory as Crewe put up a brave fight against the semi professional side.
The Glenavy side made Warrington Town work hard for the Peace Cup this year in an entertaining game of football at Crewe Park. The balance of possession was even in the opening exchanges as both teams settled into the game.
Crewe were looking in a positive mood and should have had a blatant penalty when the menacing Paul Coughlin was hauled down inside the Warrington box. Crewe frustrated Warrington who, despite having the majority of possession as the half progressed, could not break down the Crewe side. Colm McAuley in the Crewe goal was also on hand to deal with anything thrown at him.
Just before the half time whistle however Warrington did break the deadlock. Chris Gahgan used his pace to get past the Crewe backline and slotted the ball home to lead one nil at half time.
In the opening ten minutes of the second period Crewe put the visitors under pressure with Kempson, McQuillan and Coughlin all having chances to level the scores. However Crewe could not take advantage of their pressure.
As the second half progressed the superior fitness of Warrington told as Warrington caught Crewe on a counter attack to make it 2-0 and there looked to be no way back from then on for the Glenavy side. Warrington added another two goals late on to seal the Peace Cup victory.
Crewe United: McAuley, Bingham (c), Creggan, McCarthy, Haggerty, Reid, McCabe, Black, McManus, Coughlin, McQuillan. Subs: Kelly, Franklin, Chisambo, Kempson
Overall it was a brave display from the Crewe side who gave Warrington a real test. It was a great occasion as usual and we hope Warrington enjoyed their 3 days in Northern Ireland. A big thank you to all those who helped out over the weekend and Lisburn Council for their help and support.
