South thirds beat Mossley and do seconds a favour

The result kept Mossley below South Seconds, ensuring they won’t join the third-team in the relegation places come the end of the season.

The impressive Paddy Cochrane bagged a hat-trick while Mark Bell grabbed a brace and Stuart Bittle completed the scoring, all six goals coming after South were 2-0 behind at the break.

South really had to work very hard for the victory following a poor start to the game.

The locals were guilty of allowing the visitors to take a two goal lead early in the first half as a result of some poor defending and general slack play throughout the pitch. Mossley players were consistently quicker to the ball and displayed a much greater will to win.

As the half progressed, however, South improved and the signs were there that South could get back into the game. Gradually the midfield of Jack Redpath, Paul Beattie, Mark Bell and Willie Redpath Snr got some control and created a few chances for forwards Darren Hutchinson and Paddy Cochrane.

The second half saw South start with much more purpose and within the space of four minutes, they found themselves level with two quick-fire goals.

The first was finished off by Mark Bell after some great approach work from Darren Hutchinson. Three minutes later, Paddy Cochrane converted a penalty corner low to the goalkeeper’s right to draw the sides level. Two minutes later, South were awarded a penalty stroke when Willie Redpath Snr was impeded when through on goal. Paddy Cochrane stepped up to score from the spot and with three goals in six strong minutes, South were in front.

Paddy Cochrane completed a well deserved hat-trick with another fine penalty corner and before long, Mark Bell grabbed his second with a tremendous solo effort, beating several players in the circle before finding the back of the net.

The scoring was rounded off by Stuart Bittle with a powerful strike from a short corner to make the final score 6-2 to South Antrim.

While South thirds will be relegated as the leagues are restructured for next season, this result ensured that South seconds will remain in Junior League Two.

Thanks go to George Redpath for umpiring.