Bann surrender league record to determined Inst

With Lisnagarvey sitting it out this weekend due to the Under 16 and 18 inter-provincials at Mossley, Banbridge had hoped that they could put some distance between the chasers and themselves at the top of the Premiership.

But that plan vanished as Instonians had other ideas and they brought an abrupt end to Bann’s 100 per cent record.

Bann left Shaw’s Bridge knowing that one point was an escape as Inst could so easily have taken all three points.

In an exciting first half Bann had the lead three times and three times Inst came back. Stevie Dowds edged the visitors ahead, only to see the lead cancelled out when John Watson instantly replied,

Dowds again edged Bann into the lead and this time it was William Robinson who levelled it. This was hockey at its best, as these two teams served up a cracking game as they repeatedly attacked and counter attacked.

Eugene Magee restored Bann’s lead for a third time but it was short-lived, after Johnny Madill equalised. And that was only the first half.

Unfortunately the second half didn’t live up to the first, as both teams failed to find the net again. But what a game….and the result makes it all the more interesting at the top of the premiership.

Meanwhile, Bann ladies 3XI made the long trip to Raphoe this week to face Raphoe 2s. With a small team Bann knew that all players had to play a full game!

Bann arrived to an unexpected sunny and warm Raphoe.

The first half started well for Bann with most of the play in their attacking half. Raphoe managed to get a couple of good breaks but with strong defence from Nicola Ligget and Joanne Lyttle Raphoe were denied any goals.

Just before the half time whistle Linda McKinley made great use of a cross from M Whan to make it 1-0.

Bann were full of confidence going into the 2nd half and with great play between centre midfield and the wing Bann were able to get some great chances.

With Numerous short corners awarded to Bann they just could not make use of the chances. With another great cross from the right wing, Linda McKinley again was able to sweep the ball into the back of the goal.

Bann were unlucky to not get any more goals by the end of the match, but came away happy and satisfied with the win.

Player of the match- Linda McKinley

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