Scarva exit cup

The hosts’ search for the game’s opening goal was frustrated before the interval by some excellent defending from Scarva Rangers Reserves.

Phillip Magill made a crucial tackle as Gilford threatened to overrun the Rangers defence and Stephen Craig produced a series of first class saves to keep Freddie McKelvey’s side on level terms.

At the other end the home keeper saved at the feet of Wayne Jordan after a fine move involving Jordan, Dean Smyth and James Graham carved out the opening.

Brian Topley made a vital last ditch tackle early in the second half to halt a dangerous Gilford attack in its tracks while a Scarva effort from a corner was cleared off the Crusaders goal line.

A shot from the edge of the penalty area put Gilford 1-0 ahead and an own goal doubled the home side’s lead.

Another decisive strike from the edge of the penalty area put the home side three goals ahead and put an end to any lingering hopes the Scarva players had of progressing into the next round of the cup.

A penalty, awarded for handball, was clinically fired home by Dean Smyth to give the visitors a late consolation goal.

Best for Scarva Rangers Reserves – Goalkeeper Stephen Craig and Wayne Jordan.