Garvey through to Cup semi finals

Instonians 1 Lisnagarvey 2

Garvey completed their four match Kirk Cup series with a 2-1 win over Instonians at Shaws Bridge and took themselves through to the semi-final stage of the competition.

Following the recent 6-2 victory in the Premier League, Garvey found their opponents much more resilient and went behind inside 10 minutes after a William Robinson penalty corner drag flick had entered the net via the hand of Garvey keeper John Tormey and the inside of the post.

The visitors had a lot of possession as the first half progressed and good chances fell to Daniel Nelson, skipper Johnny Bell and Andy Williamson but despite this the first 35 minutes ended with Instonians still ahead by the single goal.

The second half saw Garvey improve their methods and they were rewarded in the 39th minute when Timmy Cockram after a good run on the left and an inch perfect cross field pass, found Johnny Bell who equalised with a well placed shot inside the far left hand post.

Garvey won themselves a second penalty corner in the 40th minute but Cockram was very unlucky when his flick came off the left hand post and away to safety as Instonians held on grimly.

Johnny Bell cleared a Chris Kirk shot off the goal line just before Garvey sealed the game with a 61st minute winner; it came after a good run by Johnny Quigley on the right and an Aaron Martin shot leaving Instonians a few minutes to grab another equaliser but following a third unfruitful Garvey penalty corner they completed the 2-1 win and a place in the semi final against Cookstown later in the month.

Lisnagarvey Seconds maintained their place at the top of Junior 1 with a comprehensive 12-1 win over Newry Seconds at Comber Road last Saturday.Captain, Phil Stirling led the way with four goals but was well supported by his team with further goals from Matthew Nelson (2), Ryan Getty, Graham Bittle, Jack Wilson, Matthew Gleave,Ross Kelly and Richard Bothwell.