Sussex Regiment group games wrapped up

North Down completed their group games in the Sussex Regiment Cup when they entertained Mossley at Comber Leisure Centre on Saturday

Following a 2-2 draw and both teams finishing with 5 points they have to wait for the outcome of the final group game  between Harlequins and NICS to determine who goes through to the semi-finals.

Both sides were missing key players  but produced an entertaining game for the faithful spectators. North Down opened the stronger and controlled the midfield although unable to penetrate the Mossley circle.  After 20 minutes the home side got the breakthrough.  They won a corner and Gareth McKeown slipped the first runner before flicking into the roof of the net.  Almost immediately Mossley drew level.  The North Down defence failed to clear and Robinson pounced to slam home from mid circle.  With only minutes remaining until half time, top goal scorer Josh Gilmore pounced to put his side in front.  He was in the right spot to slip home after Scottie Moore had retrieved a great cross from the left and set up the chance.

Everyone thought North Down would go on and win the game but it was Mossley who controlled much of the second half with North Down sitting too deep and inviting them to attack.  The defence were often careless when clearing allowing Mossley to get turn over ball and keep the pressure on the home goal.  North Down did have their chances and should have scored from short corners but lack of composure in front of goal allowed Mossley to stay in contention and they deservedly equalised with about six minutes remaining when Robinson again scored, this time from a short corner.

PMB Player of the Match: Jamie McAuley