Ballyclare Comrades 6 v 1 Ballynahinch United

United’s run in the Steel & Sons Cup came to an abrupt halt when they were well defeated by an excellent Ballyclare Comrades side last Saturday. They found themselves two down midway through the half and four down at half time. A spirited second half saw them get a goal back though Ian McMullan but a further two goals were conceded.

This week United play their first home match at Millbridge for well over a month when they entertain NAFL Premier League side Dunmurry Recreation in the Border Cup.

Steel & Sons Cup Round 2: Mossley YM 2 v 2 Ballynahinch Utd (Utd won 3 – 2 on penalties)

Last season United lost two cup matches on penalties against Downpatrick and Temple Rangers however this year there is a change of fortune.

United entered this game missing half of their first team squad due to holidays, injury and other commitments.

The importance of having strength in depth was tested with a number of players stepping up from the Swifts and Albion including a number of teenagers and they did not let manager Keith Hamilton down.

Simon Jackson who along with strike partner Johnny Gibson have proved to be excellent signings gave United a first half lead however it was cancelled out by Mossley in the second half.

Mossley led 2-1 in extra time but Herron popped up with an equaliser to take the game to a penalty shoot out.

Keeper Brian McMullan who is a reliable shot stopper proved to be a stumbling block to Mossley and despite unsuccessful spot kicks from the usually reliable Davy Boal and Allan Massey team mates David Kelly, Simon Jackson and Adam Herron scored to take United into the third round were they will meet IFA Championship side Ballyclare Comrades.

Saturdays Results

The 1sts went out of the The Steele & Sons after a 3 nil defeat to a very good Glebe Rangers side. We wish them luck in the next round.

The 3rds got another pre-season match under their belts and beat Rossglass 5-3 at a sunny Millbridge. The score at half time was 1-1 after a cracking goal from Gregg Allison and with second half goals from Matthew Agnew, Alan Masey, Paul King and Grame McMullan meant the very young 3rds side came out on top.

The 2nds game against Ballymacash Rangers was cancelled.

All 3 teams in action tomorrow

After an unbeaten start to their league campaign the 1sts return to action tomorrow for some Round 1 cup action in The Steele & Sons Cup 2012. Playing away to IFA Championship 2 side Glebe Rangers (Kick-off 2pm) it promises to be a tough test.

The 2nds continue their pre-season preperations with a home friendly against Ballymacash Rangers 2nds. The match starts at 2pm and all 2nds players should be at The Millbridge for 1pm.

The 3rds are also in friendly action against Rossglass at The Millbridge. Kick-off is at 11.30am and all players should be at the clubhouse for 10.45am.