Blistering start to the season as South cruise to another victory

South Antrim players celebrate an early goal against Queens. US1439-516cd

In what was their first home match of the campaign, South made a blistering start opening the scoring within five minutes.

A slick counter attacking move saw Chris Henry clean through on goal but the former Annadale man selflessly played in team-mate Paul Maguire who made no mistake from close range.

Despite the encouraging start, both teams struggled to grab the game by the scruff of the neck in the first half with chances at a premium. However, South did further extend their lead just before half time when Nathan Gamble rifled in a reverse stick shot after a surging run from midfield.

After the interval, Queen’s began to impose themselves a bit more on the game but without really troubling South’s keeper, Mark Hutchinson. Indeed, despite a flurry of short corners in the second half for the visiting side, their best attempt came via a deflected cross from the right wing which called upon Hutchinson to demonstrate his outstanding reflexes to divert the ball away from danger.

Midway through the second period, the hosts put the game beyond doubt. Another classic counter attacking move down the left hand side, ended with Adam Glass tapping the ball in at the back post to give South their third goal and seal the victory.

Although far from being their best performance to date, South got the all important three points which leaves them sitting pretty at the top of Group B in the Linden Cup.

The men are in action again tomorrow (Saturday) when they host Portrush at Friends’ School. Push back is at 3pm. Thanks, once again, to Club Sponsor, Phillips Volkwagen, for their continued support.

Thirds and Fourths

Elsewhere, South Antrim Thirds fell to a 5-2 defeat at home to Cookstown despite two goals from captain Nathan Donald.

The Fourth XI also started their league campaign with defeat, losing 1-0 to Portadown. In a closely contested encounter, both sides struggled to create any meaningful chances but it was Portadown who eventually struck gold with five minutes remaining. Next up for the Fourths is Mossley tomorrow (Saturday).