Last minute McKeown goal rescues a point

North Down welcomed Belfast Harlequins to Comber last Saturday in the final Premier League game before the Christmas break. The home side were keen to build upon the previous week’s hard fought victory over Raphoe.  

The game started at a fast tempo with some good quality flowing hockey, however neither side were able to break the deadlock.  In quarter two, North Down were first to convert. An initial strike from Gareth McKeown looped up in front of the Belfast Harlequins goalkeeper with Gareth Bailie the first to react to swat the ball into the goal.  Belfast Harlequins had chances of their own through the remainder of quarter two and quarter three. However the home defence, diligently marshalled by an alert Darren Rogers in goal held firm.

 Going into the final quarter, North Down anticipated a higher press from the away side who had to chase the game. This press was executed well and resulted in a string of short corners, two of which were converted in quick succession to swing the match in favour of Belfast Harlequins giving them a 2-1 lead.  North Down thought any chance of points was all but gone having been subsequently reduced to 9 players for a period due to infringements and with full time looming. However, in the final play of the game, a defence splitting pass from Jonny Linter found North Down’s lead marksman Gareth McKeown at the back post who showed class and composure to flick high into the net to bring the match level at 2-2.  

The full time whistle blew thereafter and what felt like a defeat for Belfast Harlequins could prove to be a valuable point for North Down come the end of the season.  

Burch Autos Man of the Match was Gareth McKeown.