Twelve-man Thirds see off North Down

Banbridge started the brighter of the two sides, with Scott McCandless controlling play from the back.

However, a quick and incisive attack from the North Down side saw them 1-0 up with the first 10 minutes of the first half.

Not long after, some good play from Shane Boyce won Banbridge their first penalty corner. The initial strike from Scott McCandless was saved, and fell into the path of John McCague, who slotted it home for the equaliser.

Banbridge began to gain momentum, with some excellent play from young midfielders Aaron Reid and Ben Knox in midfield, saw William Malcolmson get into the circle and fire home a well-placed reverse.

Bann kept the pressure on passing the ball very well, and a good ball through from Ryan Bell, left John McCague with a reverse stick effort that was cleared off the line illegally by the North Down goalkeeper.

A penalty stroke was awarded, and up came Scott McCandless renowned for his ability from the flick spot coolly finished into the corner, leaving the score at 3-1 at half time.

Banbridge started the second half as they finished the first, knocking the ball around well.

The best passing move of the match and some lovely movement from Ryan Bell left Richard McMullen a tap in, celebrated in fashion to put Banbridge 4-1 ahead.

A good solo effort down the right hand side from William Malcolmson, allowed him to get his second of the afternoon, putting Bann 5-1 ahead.

Ten minutes from time, and a good counter attack from North Down brought the score back to 5-2. Right on the final whistle, Banbridge were awarded another penalty stroke, finished well one again by Scott McCandless.