Reality check for mens thirds

North Down thirds were once again back in action last Saturday in the league cup at home to Portadown seconds at Comber Leisure Centre.

North Down took the previous week’s positives with them into this match hoping to pick up the first win of the season. However, Portadown clearly hadn’t read the script and started the game brightly and well organised. The away team pushed North Down back into their own half, piling the pressure onto a desperate North Down defence.

The pressure became too much for the home team as they conceded the opening goal. This wasn’t the last. As the first half went on two more goals were conceded by North Down after some poor defensive work. Goalkeeper Roger Graham did his best pulling off further saves to keep Portadown at bay and limit the score line to 3-0 going into the break.

After an honest half time team talk, the Comber men came out stronger looking for a way back into the game. There was more determination from everyone, however as the game wore on it was clear the damage had already been done. North Down began to tire which opened the game up for Portadown who scored two more goals to seal their impressive 5-0 victory.

The thirds will need to improve drastically in order to compete for a promotion place in Junior Three when the league proper starts in November.

PMB Man of the Match:  Roger Graham

Report by Sam Brown