Banbridge Rangers 1

RANGERS traveled the short distance to Rathfriland to play in their final game of the season Wednesday night.

The fine weather certainly helped bring out the large support for both teams and both sets of supporters were in fine tune as they enjoyed a decent derby game.

The Swifts started brightly and only for a fine reflex save from Sterritt in the visiting goal a Costello header would have opened the score for Rathfriland.

The same player carved his way through five minutes later but he missed the target with only the keeper to beat.

Rangers eventually started to settle and looked dangerous down the right with McBride, Cousins and Wilson all linking well but in the final third the Banbridge side struggled to carve any openings, mainly due to the resolute defending of Jackson and Maginn who accompanied by Robb in the holding midfield road proved the foundation of the Swifts fine performance.

As the half developed both sides were cancelling each other out and it was eventually a mistake by the ever reliable Chambers that created the Rathfriland opener.

The big centre half attempted to take a quick free kick but mishit the ball, giving possession away and the Swifts attack countered at pace to send their side in one goal ahead at the interval.

In the second half a more determined looking Rangers side took the game more to Rathfriland and won several corners early on.

One of these should have been the equalizer when Chambers rose above Allen in the home goal but his header was cleared from the line with Rangers players livid the ball had crossed it but the referee waved away any claims to ensure the Swifts remained ahead.

A 10 minute spell of what can only be described as schoolboy errors and defending then allowed Rathfriland to virtually seal the game as they rattled in three goals without reply.

The pace of Toal, Costello and Maginn was evident in all three goals with each player getting on the scoresheet as Rangers looked shellshocked at what had just happened them.

To their credit when other teams may have thrown in the towel the Banbridge side battled well in the final 20 minutes dominating possession and eventually creating some chances.

One of these was taken by Wilson as he grabbed a consolation for the Rangers and John McCahon almost grabbed a quickfire second only to see his volley just miss the bar.

The game was played out in good manor and credit must go to both sets of players for a well disciplined performance which was a credit to both clubs.

Also worth a mention was the referee who was excellent throughout and allowed the game to be played in a spirited manor.

The Swifts on the night deserved their victory and looked dangerous every time they went forward as well as being well marshalled in defence.

Banbridge Rangers have recently started a seconds team and any new players, young or old, will be made very welcome.