Rathfriland clear at the top ahead of biggest game of the season

Rathfriland Rangers went three points clear at the top of Division 1A on Saturday.
James Costello netted for Rathfriland on Saturday. Pic: Rathfriland FCJames Costello netted for Rathfriland on Saturday. Pic: Rathfriland FC
James Costello netted for Rathfriland on Saturday. Pic: Rathfriland FC

That was thanks to a convincing 3-1 win over Barn United.

It tees the club up well for Saturday’s trip to face fellow challengers East Belfast. The city club are six points behind but have a game in hand.

At Iveagh Park last weekend, James Costello grabbed the opener and Chrisy Havern added another before the break.

Thomas Lockhart was also on target. Pic: Rathfriland FCThomas Lockhart was also on target. Pic: Rathfriland FC
Thomas Lockhart was also on target. Pic: Rathfriland FC

Barn rallied in the second half but the local defence held their nerve and Thomas Lockhart sealed the win late on.

And that set Rangers up perfectly for next week’s trip.

Everyone at the club acknowledges that this game will be the biggest game of the club’s title-challenging season so far.

RATHFRILAND SWIFTS

Thomas Lockhart was also on target. Pic: Rathfriland FCThomas Lockhart was also on target. Pic: Rathfriland FC
Thomas Lockhart was also on target. Pic: Rathfriland FC

NEWCASTLE & DISTRICT LEAGUE, DIVISION THREE

Top of the league!

Rathfriland Swifts moved a big step closer to lifting the title with their 13th win in 15 games.

Goal machine Niall Maginn hit the net twice, Micheal McArdle got another and a stunner from Lee McDowell capped the victory against the Downpatrick side. The boys now need four points from their final three games to bring the trophy back to Iveagh Park.