Downpatrick fightback sinks Killough in cup quarter-final

Downpatrick fightback sinks Killough in cup quarter-final

11 November 2015

DOWNPATRICK Athletic reached the semi-finals of the Bobby Dalzell cup with an inspired comeback against Killough.

In the opening 15 minutes Killough could have had the game beyond Downpatrick’s reach after 

they raced into an early two-goal lead and had opportunities to score even more before Downpatrick woke up.

A Conor Kelly double had Downpatrick in trouble. His first goal saw the ball played down the right wing before he cut in and slid the ball past the advancing Johnny Holland.

Two minutes a long was played straight down the middle of the Downpatrick defence. Kelly was quickest to react and raced away from the Downpatrick defence before he calmly sent his supporters wild with a cool finish.

Killough had a couple of other opportunities to score, but failed to take them.

As the half wore on Downpatrick slowly began to find their feet and Peter Telford and Conor Curran began to dominate the midfield battle.

In fact Downpatrick’s first goal came via Telford when he rose highest in the box to power home Ciaran Evans’ corner.

The game now ebbed and flowed without either side creating too many chances. At half time Downpatrick Athletic trailed 2-1.

Some words of encouragement at half time inspired Downpatrick to mount a comeback in the second half, though the equaliser was a fortunate strike.

Right back Ryan Fitzpatrick advanced down the line and his cross-cum-shot evaded everyone, including the Killough goalkeeper, before ending up in the back of the net.

Downpatrick had the momentum and their third goal came soon after. Downpatrick forced another corner and again Evans took it. The winger swung the ball deep to the back post and veteran centre half Kevin Gracey jumped to head the ball into the back of the net.

As the game entered the final quarter Downpatrick stretched their lead when the quick thinking Ian Kearney collected the ball near the half way line and played a delightful cross field pass to Ciaran Evans, who took on and beat the Killough defender before slotting the ball into the net.

Killough created a nervy finish for Downpatrick when they pulled a goal back with minutes remaining when a cross from the right hand side was turned in superbly by Aaron Hutchinson.

Downpatrick held out for the victory and will now play Annalong in the semi-final in a couple of weeks’ time.

Downpatrick match sponsors: The Golden Chip, Downpatrick.

Downpatrick Athletic 4

Killough 3

BOBBY DALZELL CUP