Mens Fourths drop two points to Cliftonville

After the Christmas and New Year break North Down fourths entertained Cliftonville seconds at Comber Leisure Centre knowing that 3 points were vital to keep up with the other teams in Junior 3.

 The fourths started well and had most of the early possession and chances. Cliftonville broke the deadlock against the run of play when they converted a short corner. The fourths responded and deservedly equalised with a short corner scored by Martin Moreland. They then added a second with another short corner scored again by Moreland. They kept the pressure on up to half time but could not convert the chances created and went in 2-1 up at the break.

 After half time the fourths looked for a third but could not get the break. Cliftonville then came back into the game when they equalised catching North Down on the counter attack to make it 2-2. After that the game was even and very physical and both sides had chances as the game opened up with end to end hockey. Cliftonville should have won it when again they caught the fourths on the counter and with the goalkeeper beaten Jamie McKee made a fantastic stop on the line with the ball heading for the top corner.

 The game ended 2-2 and the fourths will feel that they dropped two points after not converting their chances in the game and not playing well enough in the second half.