First eleven into IHT quarters

North Down defeated Antrim 4-0 in the first round of the Irish Trophy last Saturday and can now look forward to a home tie against last year’s finalists Bandon on 24 January.

North Down controlled the game for most of the 70 minutes but Antrim, as last week, were dangerous on the break with North Down defenders losing their markers on occasions.

Phil Wilson opened the scoring after 10 minutes when he finished off a move at the back post.  Antrim defended stoutly and North Down were unable to add to their score before the interval

The second half saw North Down continually on the attack.  They won a number of corners and Rowan Poots scored with a blockbuster into the roof of the net.  He was unlucky when another corner attempt went flying over the bar.  He did get his second and the team’s third when he scored a corner rebound after Shepherd’s first effort was saved.  Gareth Bailie completed the scoring when he calmly slotted home from the penalty spot.  Phil Wilson had a great chance to make it five when he found himself free in the circle and with the goal at his mercy somehow a defender got back to block his flick on the line.

This was a good team performance but some work is still required to tighten up the defence.

Report by Robin Mitchell.