HOCKEY: Firsts left kicking their heels

Mossley remain rooted to the foot of the Premier League, with just one draw from nine outings. They have two games in hand over second-bottom Antrim who have four points on the board.

Mossley’s Seconds lost 3-1 away at Northern Ireland Civil Service on Saturday. NICS started brightly and it wasn’t long before they had opened up a three-goal advantage over their visitors.

The Glademen pulled one back early in the second-half thanks to a strike from Ian Creighton. Mossley’s Man of the Match: Joel Cathcart.

At The Glade, the Thirds claimed a point from a 1-1 draw with Instonians Seconds. Ross McIvor put the home side in front after 20 minutes

Instonians’ leveller came with 15 minutes left when a big hit into the circle was swept home by the alert forward.

Mossley could have snatched the winner in the last minute, but a brave tackle by an Inst. defender stopped Joe Wray from finding the net.

The club’s fourths were not so lucky; they went down 5-0 to runaway league leaders, North Down. The Fifths’ game was cancelled as Annadale were unable to field a team.

Mossley Sixths came away on the wrong end of a 4-0 scoreline against high-flying Newry III. Newry opened the scoring after eight minutes with a well-executed goal, but Mossley rallied to show great resilience against a strong attacking side.

The visitors were unfortunate to concede a second goal just before half-time. Newry added two more in the second session.

Special mention goes to 15-year-old Nathan McCartney who made his senior debut. He put in a fine performance.

Mossley’s Man of the Match: David Murray.