Despite a valiant effort from UCD ‘keeper Conor Kearns, Maciej Tarnogrodzki’s Students have it all to do if they are to retain their place in the League of Ireland Premier Division ahead of the 2020 campaign.
UCD, whohave been blighted by injuries and a string of departures throughout the season– lie six points behind Finn Harps with just three games to play.
The SkyBlues grew into the game after a slow start, with Yoyo Mahdy and Jack Keaneyboth testing Harps keeper and former UCD student Mark McGinley in the second half.
However,it was the efforts of the highly-rated Kearns that will take many of theheadlines with his fine display securing a point for the top-flights basementbattlers.
TheStudents were perhaps fortunate not to have been penalised for Evan Farrell’scoming together with Raffaele Cretaro with a passionate home crowd calling fora penalty – but the referee was unmoved.
However,the hosts were unable to break the deadlock – with the result suiting neitherside who both look destined to remain in 9th and 10threspectively.
UCD faceCork City next week at Turners Cross with a 7.45pm kick-off on Leeside wherethey could see their fate sealed if they fail to better Finn Harps resultversus Shamrock Rovers at Tallaght Stadium.