Killen strike sees off unlucky Rec

16 January 2013

DOWNPATRICK seconds first match on their return to the Harry Clarke Cup proved a successful one when they made the short journey to Ballykinlar

and they made hard work of this win.

Forced into making numerous changes, due to players being ineligible, it was hardly surprising Downpatrick were slow out of the blocks.

It was 15 minutes into the game before Downpatrick created a chance with Sean McMahon being off target with a shot just inside the box after good work from Shane Matheson down the left hand side.

At this stage of the game the Downpatrick defence off Joe MacNabb, Vincey Perry, Johnny Kent and Gary Ross weren’t having it all their own way and had to rely on Robbie Hagan in nets to keep the Rec’s strike force at bay with some fine saves.

Downpatrick came out for the second half brightly and started to exert their authority on the game, Paul Brady and Neal Cunningham began to get a grip in midfield and provide the ammunition for McMahon and Conor Killen.

With 65 minutes on the clock Downpatrick managed to break the deadlock, Joe MacNabb broke down the right flank, played a one-two with Paul Digney before firing in a teasing low cross and Killen was on hand to clip the ball into the net to send the large Downpatrick support into

hysterics.

Downpatrick made a couple of substitutions with Jamie Kelly replacing McMahon and Martin Logue replacing MacNabb. With just five minutes left in the game, Ballykinlar were thrown a lifeline.

After some good work in the box by the Rec’s number nine, Kent dived in to try and get the ball, but only succeeded in fouling the striker, the referee didn’t hesitate in awarding a penalty.

The Ballykinlar player stepped up, but sent the ball wide of the post with ‘keeper Hagan stranded.

ClubSportNI man of the match: Conor Killen (Downpatrick).

Downpatrick: R. Hagan, J. MacNabb, G. Ross, V. Perry, J. Kent, P. Brady, P. Digney, N. Cunningham, S. McMahon, C. Killen, S. Matheson. Subs: M. Logue, J. McCormick, J. Kelly

Match sponsors: Rosco’s Amusements.

Ballykinlar Rec 0

Downpatrick II 1

HARRY CLARKE CUP 2ND ROUND

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