Junior League One : Raphoe 4 v 2 Bangor

BANGOR LOSE IN DONEGAL

On Saturday Bangor 2^nd XI travelled to County Donegal in search of their first points of the calendar year.  With only 11 men available to travel, a number of whom carrying injuries, the task was too great as they returned to Bangor with no points, losing 4-2 to a gritty Raphoe team.

The match began at a high tempo with Bangor’s sharp passing game creating a number goal threatening opportunities, however it was the home side who would open the scoring through a quick fire counter attack.  Poor defending resulting in an easy tap-in for the Raphoe forward following a hopeful cross from left touchline.

Bangor replied almost immediately, the umpire awarding a penalty stroke after Allen Irwin’s second phase shot from a short corner was illegally blocked on the goal line.  Andrew Gowdy stepped up and coolly converted to restore parity.

Another Raphoe break away and sloppy Bangor defending resulted in another goal for the home side with ‘keeper Thompson powerless in the Bangor goal.

Bangor again levelled the score as Gareth Stranaghan was on hand to tuck away a penalty corner variation following a flowing forward attack.

Bangor’s forward line of Stranaghan, McNaught and McIlhagga worked tirelessly creating channels and space for their midfielders and as the visitors pressed forward another lapse in concentration resulted in a third Raphoe goal.

Half time 3-2.

Bangor began the second half the stronger and controlled possession through to full time despite losing Chris McLean to injury forcing them to play with 10 men for a large part of the half.

As Bangor continued to press for their third equaliser of the game a fourth and final Raphoe breakaway goal put the contest beyond Bangor’s grasp.

The visitors, now reduced to 10 men through injury, were desperately unlucky on a number of occasions particularly with a disallowed goal - the umpire’s late whistle withdrawing the advantage and instead awarding a penalty corner.

The team can take heart from their performance which demonstrated 100% commitment from each player, however commitment is not enough to merit league points in Junior 1.  Jeremy Macafee was awarded Man of the Match following an industrious performance in the Bangor midfield.

The 2^nd XI entertain Newry 2^nd XI at Ballykiliare this Saturday which is now a must win game for the seasiders.

written by Andrew Gowdy