Narrow defeat for Scarva Rangers at Riverdale

Scarva Rangers suffered a narrow defeat at the hands of Riverdale in their penultimate match of the season.

Alan Hammond in the Scarva goals made a great save on the stretch in the opening stages of Saturday’s match and at the other end the home keeper was called into action to save a shot from Alex Hammond.

The visitors took the lead with a slick move instigated by Colin Brown, whose clever pass found Gregory Douglas. He played a pinpoint pass inside the full back and Gary Dodds crossed the ball into the path of Alex Hammond, who fired unerringly into the net.

Hammond then headed just over and also forced the Riverdale keeper to make a save after a move that involved Greg Douglas and Wes Baird in the build up.

The hosts scored from the penalty spot to leave the game level at half time.

Riverdale scored twice in the second half to carve out a commanding 3-1 lead but the visitors responded with a goal of their own.

Neil Anderson was fouled and the free kick was taken quickly by Rod Douglas. He picked out his brother Gregory who took a touch before lashing an unstoppable shot into the corner of the Riverdale net.

Gary Dodds went close to putting his side back on level terms when he met a Wes Baird cross with a volley that went just wide.

Three red cards in the closing stages ensured an acrimonious ending to the match.

• Meanwhile, a barnstorming performance from Scarva Rangers secured an emphatic midweek victory against Derryhirk United, as Scarva won 5-1.