Local Derby
North Down entertained Bangor in local derby with both teams in need of points as they strive to climb the league table.
The game started with Bangor on the attack and it took a strong tackle from Jordan Linter to divert the danger.North Down began to take control and Tweedie passed to McKeown but his effort was saved. Gilmore picked the ball up on the wing and crossed for McKeown to blast goalwards but the Bangor keeper made an outstanding save to turn the ball round the post. Tweedie then won a corner but this was easily cleared. Andy Boyd played the perfect ball into the circle and skipper Wilson deflected into the net to give the home side the lead.Bailie and McKeown combined but McKeowns effort was saved
The second quarter saw Bangor get more control and push North Down back.They equalised when the winger dribbled along the baseline and crossed for the centre forward to score. Shortly after the home defence was caught out of position and Bangor took advantage to score their second.Harry Templeton and Blair combined to create chance for Wilson and he won a corner. At the third attempt Templeton scored the equaliser.Just before half time Wilson created a chance for Gilmore to put the home side in front.
The third quarter belonged to North Down.Welsh had an effort deflected over the top by a defender. Gilmore and McKeown combined for McKeown to increase the lead.It was Bailies turn to see his effort fly over the bar. Boyd went on one of his attacking runs and saw his cross cleared of the line. Johnny Linter who was having a fine game played an overhead which found Templeton. He weaved his way into the circle and somehow managed to slot the ball into the roof of the net.
In the final quarter Bangor got the perfect start. Their corner expert Burgess scored high to the keepers left. This lifted Bangor and Rodgers had to make a number of interceptions as they put pressure on the home goal. Wilson won a corner and the Bangor keeper received a card for foul language but nothing came of it. As both teams pressed a number of players from both sides received cards for over enthusiasm. Bangor won another corner but the effort at goal hit Boyd on the knee and was considered dangerous with umpire Herron awarding a free out to North Down. With about 5 minutes remaining Tweedie was penalised for a stick tackle and Burgess again found the net from the resulting corner. From the restart North Down were able to retain possession and see time out.
A fast entertaining game which saw North Down secure victory with a 5 – 4 victory
Burch Autos man of match Harry Templeton.