Charlie Lyons heads Cork to victory over Athlone

Courtesy of a headed Charlie Lyons goal, Cork City maintained their 100% winning record at Turner's Cross this season by overcoming Athlone Town.

This was a night which saw the home side frustrated for large spells by a stubborn Athlone defence. But it is a result the Leesides will hope ultimately proves to take them onto step closer to a Premier Division return come November.

City kept their impressive defensive record for the 2024 campaign going, having now conceded one goal from their seven league games played to date. Though they had goalkeeper Brad Wade to thank with a fantastic acrobatic save from Athlone's Daniel McKenna in the 95th minute.

Tim Clancy brought Cathal O’Sullivan into the City starting eleven after the talented teenager was on international duty with the Republic of Ireland Umder-17s last week.

Athlone had German Fuentes Rodriguez in their starting line-up, who last week during the international window lined out for El Salvador against World Cup holders Argentina.

City saw the majority of the possession during the opening quarter of an hour, but were finding clear-cut goal opportunities hard to come by.

The first shot of note arrived on 20 minutes for Athlone through Dean Ebbe, who dragged a low shot wide from outside the box.

Shortly after, City threatened through a headed effort by Cian Coleman from a Jack Doherty corner.

As City continued to try to forge an opening to no avail, Athlone almost carved out a golden chance in the 42nd minute when Aaron Connolly was played through. But City defender Charlie Lyons was alert to vitally block down inside the penalty area.

The sides went in level at the half-time break, at which point Athlone were clearly the more content of the two sides.

Daniel McKenna seeked to