Bann's

blistering start helps them keep the pace

Banbridge 4

BANBRIDGE travelled to Kilkeel at the weekend in the Premier League knowing three points were vital to continue their league challenge.

All local supporters are all too aware how difficult a place Macaulay Park has been over the years with two Irish Cup exits prominent Bann memories.

However the young Bann squad dispelled any worries quickly with an opening 25 minutes of wonderful free flowing hockey that simply shellshocked the home side.

Bann were 4-0 up inside 20 minutes and at that stage it was a scoreline that flattered the Mournemen. Colin Dowds opened the scoring after only two minutes following super work from Dermy Reay on the right side.

What a difference a week makes as the eldest Dowds was at it again on seven minutes with a sublime deflection that arrowed into the top corner following a strong cross from Scott Forbes.

Bann were totally dominating possession with Ross McCandless conducting the play with his accurate long passing ability.

Stephen Dowds then joined Colin on the score sheet with a sensational top corner finish from the edge of the circle to make it 3-0 after 13 minutes.

Bann's passing and moving was exceptional at times as they kept the ball for long periods and it was no surprise when Dane Ward tapped in at the back post following another right wing cross.

In the last 10 minutes of the first half Bann continued to play with fluency but Kilkeel started to find some form going forward, however the first half ended with Gareth Lennox untroubled.

Bann started the second half sloppy lacking concentration and needlessly losing possession at times, this aided the home side into some pressure and on 50 minutes the deficit was reduced to three as a low drag flick found Lennox's bottom left corner.

Bann refocused and started to control possession again slowly killing any thoughts of a comeback, Stephen Dowds flashed an effort over the crossbar and Dane Ward wasted a chance when well placed.

Kilkeel to their credit never stopped and the last 10 minutes, they had sustained pressure on the Bann goal causing a few moments of panic in the rearguard but were unable to find the telling finish.

Overall a bit of a Jekyll and hyde performance with a excellent first half display and a below average second period but three points achieved from a difficult venue as the locals keep pace with Lisnagarvey at the summit of the Ulster League with three wins from three.

Other Premier League results: Lisnagarvey 4-2 Cookstown; NICS 3-2 Mossley; North Down 2-2 Instonians; Annadale 3-1 Bangor.

Team: Lennox, Sc Forbes, St Forbes, R McCandless, P Brown, D Carlisle, C Dowds, B McCandless, D Ward, S Dowds, D Reay. Subs: S McCandless, J Moffet, N Kelly, C Kelly.