Ballynahinch United travelled to Rathmore Grammar School to face 1B counterparts in the first round of the Border Regiment Cup.
The weather was wild and rain soaked both teams throughout the match. However the wet 3G pitch made for quick attacking football.
Ballynahinch looked good but were unable to take the lead and Aquinas rallied back, finally opening the scoring just before the break. Aquinas were awarded a free kick on the half way line and hit a long cross field ball. The cross found a free man at the back post and his header looped back across goal into the United net to give the home side the lead at half time.
Ballynahinch started the second half with renewed optimism and used the ball well but the Aquinas defence were able to withhold and thwart the pressure. Even after Aquinas found themselves down to 10 when their goal scorer was sent off for Dissent.
The home side found their own chances few and far between but managed to get themselves a corner.
The corner found the head of United defender Alan Patterson, but he was unable to divert it away from his own goal. His header landed at the feet of an Aquinas attacker who was able to bundle the ball into the net to double their lead.
Ballynahinch made some changes and renewed their fight back. Substitute Stuart Fitzsimon, making his debut after signing from Ravenhill YM managed to pull one back after a sweetly struck first time effort nestled in the back of the Aquinas goal.
United continued to pressure the home team but were unable to score an equaliser despite having an effort cleared off the line and a penalty claim turned down. It wasn’t to be and the referee called full time.
United crashed out of the Border Regiment Cup in the 1st Round on the 30th Anniversary of winning it. An unfortunate result that maybe deserved better.
Following full time, our first 50s Club draw was made. Forward, Aaron Gilmartin, was selected to make the draw as he had no numbers in the draw.
Round up
Aquinas FC 2 – 1 BUFC
| Goalscorer: | Stuart Fitzsimons |
| Competition: | Border Regiment Cup Round 1 |
| Ground: | Rathmore Grammar School, Belfast |