Banbridge Fourths defeated by league leaders Antrim Seconds

Antrim Seconds 3

The match began at breakneck speed with both teams quickly counter-attacking one another.

Bann were confidently suppressing the Antrim attack and producing some neat passing moves down the flanks.

Joe McKnight and Simon Jess were showing excellent composure as they attacked down the right flank.

It looked like the half was going to finish nil-nil, when Antrim scored with two minutes left on the clock to bring the half to a close at 0-1.

The first half was serene in comparison to the second half, which had everything a spectator could hope for.

Antrim scored within minutes of the second half starting, in what could be described as a cheap goal.

Antrim then were penalised moments later as the keeper trapped Joe McKnight with his legs and stopped him from attacking the goal.

Bann were subsequently awarded a short corner.

Following some excessive protesting the goalkeeper was given a green card followed by a yellow card.

Some might argue that he was fortunate to be allowed back in the game at all.

Bann conjured up several chances on goal and short corners, but were unable to convert these into goals.

Douglas Anderson had two dragged efforts saved by the defender on the post.

As the game drew to a close Antrim scored their final goal to make it a 0-3 loss to Banbridge Fourths.

The team worked hard and produced some excellent chances, but the failure to capitalize on these cost them the game.

Next up for the Fourths is Cookstown.

The Banbridge team included:

Adam Crawford in goal; Sean Doran, Aaron McConnell, Nigel Allister and Douglas Anderson in defence; Daniel Calvin, Roger Martin, Joe McKnight and Simon Jess in midfield; Matthew Young and Ben McConnell in attack.

The substitutes included Matthew Graham, Lewis Bingham, Jack Montgomery and Corey Large.