Bann Threes stay in contention for promotion with a routine victory

Raphoe fielding an experienced team got off to a great start when after some good play in midfield, the ball was worked into the circle and the Raphoe forward scored with a fierce strike reverse.

The goal sparked Bann into life and some good exchanges between McKnight and Scott created a couple of opportunities for Dean and Armstrong.

Bann didn’t stay behind for long when good play from Brown on the right of the circle found Dean on the penalty spot and he didn’t make any mistake on his reverse.

Bennington who had moved into the centre of defence was proving to be a rock and mopped up any early second half Raphoe attacks.

Bann were unlucky to see a couple of early short corners well saved and were reduced to ten men when Woods was shown a yellow card for not retreating five from a free hit.

Bann managed to see out this period without conceding and then took the lead with a great strike from McKnight from another short corner with the ball hitting off the very top of the back board.

Bann stretched their lead when Scott and Armstrong disposed of the final Raphoe defender and keeper with Armstrong putting the final pass into an open net.

Bann managed to see out the remainder of the game and stay in third place in Junior Two with an outside chance of winning the league.

Bann now face second placed South Antrim Seconds in the league on Saturday.