Bangor 2nds 0 v 2 Banbridge 3rds

POOR START FOR SECONDS

Banbridge third string were the visitors to Ballykillare for the seconds first fixture of the new season, a fixture that Gareth Stranaghan’s charges would have expected to take something from.

Unfortunately it was not to be as they were defeated by 2 goals to nil against a side that showed greater incisiveness in the final third of the pitch.  The home side had started brightly without creating anything clearcut, whereas the Bann side were winning short corners from their forays.  From the fifth such setpiece, Thompson was beaten at his near post to put the visitors ahead.  Bangors only real chance of the first period was only a half chance, Coughlin getting a deflection on a cross from the right which just flashed past the left post.

In the second half the home side were better.  More opportunities were created with Mulholland shooting wide, Irwin’s short corner strike being saved and McNaught pulling his shot wide after rounding the Banbridge keeper.  However, it was certainly not all one way, the visitors again forcing numerous short corners and Thompson saving well from other chances that were created from open play.  The second Banbridge goal came just 9 minutes from time when the home side again lost the ball in the middle of the pitch, and the Bann pincer movement was finished with an exquisite reverse stick effort that gave Thompson no chance.

A disappointing result and performance that leaves the seconds needing much improvement in the weeks that lie ahead.  However, with the return of players from injury and unavailability together with an increase in match sharpness and fitness, it should result in a better level of performance.  One thing is for sure, the team cannot afford too many displays as last Saturdays.

The player of the match vote was shared between Robin Thompson and debutant Robin Coughlin.

Many thanks to Andrew Walker for umpiring, and to Graeme Laird for being available to umpire.

Team:  Thompson, Irwin, Brennan, McCausland P, Toogood, McCausland A, McVicar, Coughlin, Mulholland, McNaught, Dunn, Cox, McMillan