Warner Mullen’s first-half penalty was enough for Loughgall to see off bottom side Donegal Celtic and maintain their 4th place in the NIFL Championship One table.
Loughgall had to withstand early pressure from the hosts however goalkeeper Gareth Buchanan was largely untroubled in this opening period.
Warner Mullen tested DC ‘keeper Ryan McConville with a half-volley on 14 minutes, and then on 27 minutes the Villagers went close when Dallas’ shot was flicked over the crossbar by striker Daniel Ryan.
Loughgall missed an excellent chance to open the scoring in the 35th minute when Dallas crossed for Ryan to hit the bar from close range. The rebound fell nicely for Joe O’Connor who was denied by superb point blank save from McConville.
The visitors scored the decisive goal from the penalty spot four minutes before the break as Warner Mullen cooly slotted home after he was fouled in the penalty area.
In the second half Warner Mullen hit the crossbar from a free-kick – the third time Loughgall hit the woodwork.
Loughgall had ‘keeper Buchanan to thank for securing the three points when he made a superb save to deny DC striker Philpott from close range.
Loughgall: Buchanan, Carson, Taveres, Hudson, Copeland, Gary Henderson, Dallas, Walsh, Mullen, Ryan, O’Connor (Stretton 74m). Unused subs: Dane, Gareth Henderson, Robinson.
