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Bangor 4’s entertained Down 2nd’s at Ballykilliare last Saturday on what
was a must win game. This was the return leg of a frustrating visit to the
shale pitch early on in the season where Bangor had narrowly lost 2-1.
The game started at a fast pace with both teams looking for that early
goal. Bangor had several great chances, one of which saw Cook hitting the
post. Bangor continued to press with some clever linkage between
Walker, Cook, and Robinson.
Luck didn’t seem to be going Bangor’s way early on, until Irvine
capitalised on a weak hit-out with a well taken goal.
A goal to the good and Bangor were keen to continue the pressure, yet
determined not to give away the lead - something that has haunted them all
season. Bangor defended well for the next ten minutes before Down
gradually fought their way back into the game and equalised.
Bangor responded with some good attacking down the left with Irvine and
Eccles linking up well. A well placed pass from Parker spread the play to
Eccles who laid a square pass to Irvine, slotting home his second of the
game.
Down began to feel the pressure and as frustration grew, tempers flared.
After some stern words from the umpires at half time, both teams began to
settle down and play their own style of hockey.
This was the decisive factor in the second half that won Bangor the game.
The quick passing allowed them to create spaces allowing Stranaghan and
Patterson to push up into Down’s half. On one such occasion,
Stranaghan took advantage of this space and a well struck goal from the
top of the circle gave the home side a priceless 2 goal cushion.
Down did continue to pose an attacking threat and it took a couple of
point blank saves from Irvine in the Bangor goal to preserve Bangor's
advantage.
With the 2 goal lead secured, Bangor began to dictate much of the play for
the remainder of the half. The sustained period of Bangor pressure
resulted in the visitors conceding numerous penalty corners. From
one such corner, James Mottashaw stepped up and executed a precise
drag flick past the flailing Down keeper for Bangor’s fourth.
Win less than ten minutes left Bangor sealed the win with two well taken
goals by Parker.
With the season half way through, Bangor must play with the conviction
that was shown in the second half if they wish to climb up the league and
remain in Junior 3.
Many Thanks to Andrew Gowdy for umpiring and well done to Man of the Match
Ricky Parker. |