Emma’s goal gets a point for the fourths

North Down fourths first match back after Christmas was at Ards Leisure Centre on Saturday against Ballymena thirds and they were determined to get revenge for the 1-0 defeat earlier in the season.

North Down’s defence of Beverly Britain, Anna Rogers, Ann McBride and Lauren McCormack started off strongly breaking down Ballymena’s attacks helped by some excellent saves from keeper Fiona Emerson. Jo Irwin and Megan Adams combined well on the right side of the pitch and after 7 minutes a free from Irwin found Emma Johnston who quickly controlled the ball and found the net for the opening goal. Ballymena equalised on 19 minutes and with strong attacking play had the home team on the back foot.

The second half saw the visitors very much in control however North Down held their nerves in defence and even threatened in breakaways but against the odds there was no further scoring and the game finished in an honourable draw.

Report by Anna Rogers