Rangers Reserves go top of the Championship 
after beating Rathfriland

In the opening 15 minutes Banbridge Rangers were the dominant side and caused havoc for the Rathfriland back line with some direct running from wingers Ryan Weir and Stephen Copes with Weir able to force four early corners which went unconverted.

A seemingly innocuous free kick in a central area just in front of the centre circle brought about the Gers opening goal. Dean Mallen decided to try his luck from distance and the ball dipped enough to sail under the bar and through the Rathfriland keepers hands.

Rathfriland were only behind for two minutes and they snatched an equaliser when left winger Philip Johnston latched onto a long ball and curled around Rangers keeper Jonny Parkes.

For the remainder of the half Rathfriland were the dominant side with Paul Gibbons dictating much of the play and creating several chances which were well saved by Parkes.

Banbridge Rangers regained their lead just after the hour mark when a quick free kick on the right hand touchline released Ryan Weir to the byline and he fizzed a low cross to the back post where centre half Kyle Sergeant was on hand to tap in.

The final chance off the game fell to Rathfriland with a through ball giving Conan Power the run off the half but Rangers keeper Jonny Parkes got his knuckles to the resultant shot and secured all three points for his side.