On a hard bumpy pitch with a stiff cross field wind which made ball control a little difficult, Bryansburn made all the early running but their shooting left a lot to be desired. However, with fifteen minutes gone, Tumelty latched on to a short corner on the right and cut across the eighteen-yard line before firing the ball into the corner of the net. With McGimpsey, Maguire, Coard and particularly McConkey well in control in the middle of the park, Bryansburn continued in the ascendancy but some horrendous shooting prevented them from establishing a handsome lead. However, midway through the half Coard, working through the left, slipped a neat ball into the middle for Tumelty to double his tally. In defence, Cooling, Kane, Maitland returning from injury and R.Thompson were largely untroubled leaving Steventon to comfortably field the odd long ball. Meanwhile at the other end, Bryansburn continued to squander chances, partly due to the occasional awkward bounce on the hard surface with the major sinner being a well known but nameless Centre-half who miss hit from three yards out.

Minutes into the second half Malomo-Paris surged into the Service box but before he could take on the ‘keeper in a one on one, he was tripped from behind, Although it possibly could have been a red card for the defender as “last man”, Bryansburn settled for a penalty which Tumelty hammered home to complete a welcome hat-trick. Despite being three goals down, Civil Service never gave up and began competing well for the ball in midfield as Bryansburn reshuffled with McGimpsey being withdrawn with a cut above the eye from a clash of heads. With time running out, A.Thompson threaded an astute ball between the twin centre- halves and Culbert wasted no time in latching on to the through ball to smash it into the roof of the net and complete the scoring.

A comfortable enough win for Bryansburn but they will want to see more of the chances they are creating converted into goals. Next up is Dunmurry YM this Saturday.

After a two week break, the 2nds returned to league action at home to Drumaness Mills and continued their good run with a 2-0 victory.

A much changed side began steadily and got into their stride with some good football. The midfield of Mills, Lemon, Shaw and McCullough were dominant and ‘Burn created several chances before their opening goal after twenty minutes. A great piece of skill from Peeples saw him nutmeg the Drumaness defender before firing home, giving the keeper no chance. They almost doubled their lead shortly after, but Mills saw his effort hit the top of the crossbar. At the other end, Drumaness were looking to use the height of their no 9 to good effect, but he was well dealt by Morrow. Edwards was making good runs behind the Drumaness defence on a number of occasions but was not given the chance to add to Bryansburn’s tally as he looked to be harshly blown for offside. HT 1-0

In the second half Bryansburn continued to create the better openings but had no further goals to show for their efforts. With half an hour to go, they were reduced to ten men when Morrow was shown a second yellow card. ‘Burn conceded territory and possession, but the reshuffled defence of Dickson, Storey, Peeples and Bowater defended well against the Drumaness attacks. Galbraith was called on once, and saved brilliantly at the feet of the visiting striker. ‘Burn were still threatening on the counter attack, and Edwards had a couple of one-on-ones with the Drumaness keeper, before Bowater saw his diving header loop over the keeper and into the back of the net for the cushion that ‘Burn needed. A hard fought and well deserved win that keeps the 2nds good run going.

A last minute equaliser saw the 3^rd XI drop two points at Ballygowan as the sides drew 2-2.

Bryansburn were always comfortable in the first half although Andrews had to make a miraculous save to prevent Jones putting through his own goal. Gallagher gave ‘Burn the lead with a good individual goal while Cardwell and Dempster failed to hit the target from good opportunities. Just before halftime Ballygowan equalised when Andrews tipped a shot against the bar and the rebound was hammered home despite a valiant attempt from McComb on the line.

Gallagher made one amazing run beating no fewer than six home players before hitting the crossbar before Cardwell latched on to a Hardy ball on the hour mark and lifted it over the keeper to put ‘Burn back in front.

The rest of the game saw Bryansburn strive in vain for the third goal to kill the game off. They did create some good chances but finishing was poor. For their part Ballygowan battled to the end showing a great fighting spirit and their efforts were rewarded when a cross was volleyed home from close range in the last minute to salvage what they would probably say was a deserved point.

‘Burn IVs played Corrymeela IIs in a Tommy Murphy Memorial Shield match at Ballywooley and lost 2-0.

Both sides had difficulty in playing any fluent football on a bumpy pitch and chances were few and far between. It was Corrymeela who took the lead after 30 minutes when a long ball gave their centre forward the opportunity to outpace the ‘Burn defence and fire a strong shot past Geddis into the corner of the net. Bryansburn responded and they forced a number of corners. John Geddis’ delivery caused problems but no ‘Burn player was able to produce the killer touch. Corrymeela doubled their lead on the stroke of half time when a loose ball was bundled home. ‘Burn continued to struggle to make chances and rarely troubled the Corrymeela keeper.

Gilmer was introduced to the fray and he provided a much-needed outlet, holding the ball up well and bringing others into play. It was he who went closest with an overhead kick, which was well saved. Jones and White also provided fresh legs but ‘Burn were unable to further trouble the Corrymeela keeper and the game finished at 2 nil to the visitors.

On Tuesday night at Ballywooley the 2^nd XI defeated League favourites Lisburn Rangers ll 1-0 while the 3^rd XI were beaten 2-0 by Oakfield Breda.

Tonight (Thur) the 3^rd XI travel to take on Newtown Forest in the Quarterfinal of the Supplementary Cup while the 4^th XI entertain Newtown Forest ll.

On Saturday with the Club trip to Benidorm there are only two home games scheduled with the 1^st XI up against Dunmurry YM and the 4^th XI taking on 82^nd ll.

On Monday th2 4^th XI are at home to Corrymeela ll while the following night the 2^nd XI travel to Bangor Rangers ll.

The next Social event is a Nite at the Races on Saturday 24^th April. Tickets are available from Davy Cole while horses can be purchased from Alan Dempster.

The Annual Dinner and Awards Night is at the Marine Court Hotel on Friday 21^st May. Tickets (£25) are available from Alan Dempster and are being allocated on a first come basis.

Following heavy overnight rain, which left the playing surface a bit greasy, Bryansburn started brightly enough with both McConkey and Tumelty leading the 1^st Bangor defence a merry dance but despite enumerable shots at goal, all attempts to really test the ‘keeper were to no avail as most sailed harmlessly wide or over the bar. Thankfully, 1^st posed no great threat themselves resulting in a goal-less first half with only ex Bryansburn starlet Ennis putting in some powerful runs on the right for 1^st.

Bryansburn got the second period off to a great start when yet another mazy run from McConkey set up Culbert to hit the target from close range. Fifteen minutes into the half Bryansburn should have had the match well sewn up in the space of three minutes. First, Tumelty jinked his way through the 1^st defence but when faced with the ‘keeper from six yards out somehow managed to tamely poke the ball into the custodian’s hands. A minute later, Culbert stormed his way along the six yard line but was tripped when about to pull the trigger. Unfortunately the referee was on the blind side of the incident and waved play on and then unbelievably, Tumelty again found himself face to face with the ‘keeper and yet again harmlessly poked the ball into the ‘keeper’s hands.

When you miss chances like this you deserve to be punished and that is just what happened. 1^st made a quick break on the right but as Steventon went wide to narrow the angle, a cute lob left him in no mans land as the ball sailed over his head and into the net for the equaliser. However, midway through the half Tumelty again wriggled clear but before he could get in his shot, hopefully this time with a bit more power, he was pulled down leaving Culbert the task of hammering in the spot kick.

With fifteen minutes to go 1^st were reduced to ten men when Magee had to be carried off, victim of a crude, dangerous tackle. However, the ten men of 1^st seemed more able to use the ball and the space better in the remaining time and held out comfortably but before the end there was yet another moment of madness. The 1^st ‘keeper accepted a pass back from one full back and whilst trying to play the ball with his feet across to the other full back, he misread his angle and it took a last gasp desperate lunge to hook the ball off the goal line.

Although it was another three points for Bryansburn, the news from Dundonald was a 2-1 win against Shorts leaving Bryansburn still twelve points adrift from the top, albeit with four games in hand.

Bryansburn 2^nd XI’s trip to Shorts FC ll was called off due to a burst water pipe meaning that they still have a massive eleven League games to play in the last month of the season.

The 3^rd XI had a 3-2 win over Ballygowan, which was more comfortable than the final score suggests.

The first half was one-way traffic as ‘Burn gave Ballygowan a footballing lesson. Bryansburn took an early lead when Beattie split the defence and Dempster scored with a cross-cum-shot to settle the nerves. A second goal soon followed with Thompson flicking a ball from Beckett past ex-Burn player Baillie in the Ballygowan nets. Dempster then played a one-two with Beattie and although his low shot beat the keeper a covering defender managed to clear the ball off the line. ‘Burn were pushing the ball about well all around the pitch but on one occasion were too casual at the back but a forward shot over the bar. Ballygowan did get a foothold in the match when a corner was not cleared and they reduced the deficit.

However minutes later the two-goal advantage was restored when Edwards volleyed a Beattie cross home at the back post. After that the only surprise was that the score remained 3-1 at the interval. ‘Burn attacked at will with Ballygowan chasing shadows and only some good goalkeeping and bad luck prevented a rout.

The second half was a different story as a spirited Ballygowan side battled to the end. They created and missed numerous chances before a good header gave Andrews no chance to pull the score back to 3-2.

At the other end ‘Burn did have their chances to kill the game off. Murphy headed against the bar before Edwards set Cardwell up six yards out but the keeper saved with his legs. Then substitute Flynn stormed through the middle but his drive just cleared the crossbar.

The problem with not finding the 4^th goal was that Ballygowan were in with a chance of snatching a point right up to the final whistle. However, ‘Burn held out comfortably enough although based on their first half superiority they should never have been in the position of defending a one goal cushion late in the game.

The 4^th XI had a comfortable 4-0 win at Agape ll in the Tommy Murphy Memorial shield.

Goals from Patterson and Jeffers in the first twenty minutes put ‘Burn in the driving seat. McAllister then added a third before half time. Agape improved in the second half creating some chances, which were capably dealt with by goalkeeper Geddis. Their cause was not helped however when they had a player somewhat harshly sent off. Even so, Agape continued to press and were awarded a penalty after a foul in the box. Geddis however produced a fine save to maintain the three goal cushion. Bryansburn raised their game again and pressure from Turnbull led to an Agape defender pushing the ball into his own net. Alex Jones came on at the back for the last ten minutes to partner son Kris and ‘Burn comfortably saw out the remainder of the match. 

Tonight the 3^rd XI entertain Ravenhill YM at Ballywooley, kick-off 6.15pm while training is as normal for the other three senior teams.

On Saturday: 1^st XI V Civil Service (a), 2^nd XI V Drumaness Mills ll (h), 3^rd XI V Ballygowan (a) and 4^th XI V Corrymeela ll (h).

The next social function is a “Nite at the Races” in the Rose on Saturday 24^th April so please keep that night free. Horses are now on sale – please see Alan Dempster. Tickets are available for that event and also for the Annual Dinner and Awards Night in the Marine Court Hotel on Friday 21^st May. Places are limited and will be allocated on a first come basis. Tickets are £25 – again see Alan Dempster.

The away side came flying out of the blocks and were unlucky not to go ahead after great work by Malomo-Paris. The opening goal did arrive moments later after great play by Maguire who fed the ball for Culbert to side foot into the corner of the net.

The home side rallied quickly and found themselves back in the game when the referee gave a very dubious penalty much to the disbelief of both teams and supporters. ‘Burn upped their game but some very poor passing and finishing left the scores level at halftime.

After a few harsh words from the Management Team at halftime the visitors almost scored straight from the kick off only for the home keeper to deny Tumelty. Moments later the same player rifled one from the edge of the box into the bottom corner only for the referee to signal offside ruling that Culbert had got the final touch.

The YM started to get on top of the game and only great defending and goalkeeping from Steventon kept them at bay. Twenty minutes from time Tumelty scored his 17^th of the season to put Bryansburn in front after great play from Cooling and Coard down the right hand side.

Again the home side came back at ‘Burn and only great defending and goal-line clearances from Cooling and Rick Barr kept the away side 2-1 to the good.

Shortly before the final whistle, after a long throw from McGimpsey, Culbert used his strength to hold off a Dunmurry player and he turned and smashed the ball into the bottom corner to leave the final score 3-1.

Not a great performance but another three points and with Newcastle drawing against Dundonald its all to play for as Bryansburn are still in the promotion mix with eight games remaining, seven of which are at home.

The 3rds pulled off a remarkable win against Comber YM in the Supplementary Cup fighting back from 4-1 down to take the tie to extra time before eventually winning on penalties.

‘Burn actually made a bright start and took a deserved lead when Cardwell capitalised on a poor defensive header to run through and drill the ball under the advancing keeper. The visitors could then have doubled their lead when Corr took a quick free-kick and the Comber keeper denied Dempster with a superb save.

However after that it was the YM who took over. They played a very direct but effective game and ‘Burn had no answer to it. They quickly equalised scrambling the ball home from a corner, took the lead minutes later when a forward was first to the second ball and by the time they added a third goal were well on top. ‘Burn struggled to get the ball down and play with only Corr providing much threat and Bryansburn were perhaps fortunate to be only 3-1 down at the break.

The second half did not start any better with Brady having to make one great save before Comber made it 4-1 with the ball going straight in from a corner. With the tie all but over a change in tactics saw Right-back Cole withdrawn in favour of Edwards up front as ‘Burn switched from a 4-4-2 formation to 3-4-3. Suddenly Bryansburn were having more joy as Comber struggled to pick players up and ‘Burn aided by the instrumental Murphy began to get the ball down and play. With Beckett bombing down the left there was now a belief that the game was not yet over.

On the hour mark Dempster turned his man thirty yards out and threaded a precision ball to Thompson who took one touch and fired home to make it 4-2. Six minutes later it was game on as a flowing six man move ended with Corr rifling the ball into the top corner from just outside the box. The momentum was now totally with Bryansburn with Comber looking a shadow of the team that had controlled the first half. Corr and Cardwell went close before the equaliser duly arrived in the 78^th minute. Again it was a flowing move with the ball finally finding Lemon at the corner of the box and he drilled a low effort into the bottom corner.

Bryansburn pushed forward trying to finish the game within the ninety minutes but their hopes took a blow when they were reduced to ten men. Suddenly it was a case of making sure that the tie did go to extra time and they held on despite a late Comber rally.

With twenty minutes extra time to come ‘Burn abandoned the three at the back policy because of having a man less and reverted to a 4-4-1 formation, Peeples coming on at the back to replace Dempster up front. The idea was to hold on for penalties. The tactic worked well because although ‘Burn never looked like scoring neither did Comber. As time ticked away ‘Burn had two lucky escapes. Firstly a free-kick struck the outside of the post and then a Comber forward beat the offside and lobbed the advancing Brady only to see the ball drop just over the crossbar.

Disaster struck with two minutes remaining when the referee awarded a penalty against Peeples, which was duly despatched. Comber thought they had won the tie but Jones immediately replaced Cardwell and Peeples was sent up front to try and redeem himself and that is exactly what he did turning the ball in from twelve yards to make it 5-5. Straight away he was back in defence as ‘Burn made sure that they did not throw the game away after so much hard work.

So to the shoot-out with regular penalty taker Dempster and his deputy Cardwell both off the pitch. However it did not matter as Bryansburn scored all five penalties while Comber put one of their four wide. On target were Corr, Edwards, Lemon and Peeples with Murphy hitting the winning kick.

Very poor first half but a scintillating comeback with a Quarterfinal tie against either Ballygowan or Newtown Forest the reward. Best for Bryansburn was Corr.

The 4^th XI travelled to Stranmillis 37^th OB ll for a Tommy Murphy Memorial Shield match and drew 3-3.

‘Burn made a great start going 2-0 up in the first ten minutes through J.Geddis and Jeffers. The home side then worked their way back into the match and it was no surprise when their Centre-forward fired high into the net after half an hour to reduce the deficit. They continued to look the more likely to score but it looked like Bryansburn would take their lead into the interval when a corner on the stroke of half time was handled in the box and the resultant penalty was duly dispatched to level the scores.

37th continued the second half where they left off and took the lead twenty minutes in when a half cleared corner was hooked back over goalkeeper Geddis for a fine goal. ‘Burn improved after this with chances falling to Taylor and Patterson but with time running out it looked like the equaliser would not come. However, a couple of minutes from the end, sub Crawley was fouled just outside the box and Jeffers stepped up to curl a lovely free kick into the top corner off the crossbar to leave the final score 3 all.

Fixtures this Saturday: 1^st V 1^st Bangor OB (h), 2^nd XI V Shorts FC ll (a), 3^rd XI V Ballygowan (h) and 4^th XI V Agape ll (a)

The next social function is a “Nite at the Races” in the Rose on Saturday 24^th April so please keep that night free. Horses are now on sale – please see Alan Dempster. Tickets are available for that event and also for the Annual Dinner and Awards Night in the Marine Court Hotel in May. Places are limited and will be allocated on a first come basis. Again see Alan Dempster.

Dundonald won the toss and chose to play with the strong wind at their backs and this was a decision that in hindsight impacted most on how the game panned out.

Bryansburn during the early exchanges looked to be on the back foot but still looked comfortable dealing with the Dundonald attacks until a needless challenge by Maitland who barged into the back of Chambers in the box and the referee had no hesitation in pointing to the spot. The penalty was rifled into the corner giving Steventon no chance.

Worse was to follow minutes later when the Right Fullback of Dundonald was given too much time and space to send a pinpoint cross to the back post and after the first headed effort by Chambers was brilliantly cleared off the line by Magee, Matthews for Dundonald reacted quicker to head the ball back into the gaping net and Bryansburn were on the rack.

‘Burn started to come to life and a great ball by Coard released Tumelty one on one with the keeper but the visitor’s keeper stood firm saving the ball with his legs. Minutes later the same player had another great effort but once again it was the same outcome.

A third goal for Dundonald looked on the cards as they tried to finish the half strongly and a wind assisted deflected shot from wide left rifled past Steventon only for it to somehow bounce off the crossbar and S Barr put it away for safety.

The 3^rd and decisive goal eventually came when after a great tackle on the edge of the box by Graham the ball fell to the young midfielder of Dundonald who swung his right boot at it and gave Steventon no chance as it hit the top corner of the net to leave the half time score 0-3.

What a difference the halftime team talk made and within minutes of the restart Bryansburn were on the attack and it was evident that the Fullbacks of Bryansburn were now asking questions of the visiting team. After two quick corners in succession, a 3^rd corner was awarded in the 51^st minute which was whipped in and half cleared into the path of Tumelty who was lurking at the edge of the box and he blasted an unstoppable shot through a crowd of players into the net to give Bryansburn the perfect start to the 2^nd half.

Dundonald now had their backs against the wall, and the home side, with the wind at their back, penned them in as they went in search for a quick 2^nd goal. After a few long range efforts the 2^nd goal came on 58 minutes when Tumelty again struck a venomous shot from distance but the keeper could only parry into the path of Thompson who slid it into the net much to the delight of the home side supporters.

Dundonald were clearly rattled by the comeback and the comeback was near complete when Thompson rose unmarked from a corner to power in a header but the Dundonald defender on the post somehow headed it off the line via the cross bar and out for safety.

Disappointingly Bryansburn failed to capitalise on this and this chance that came and went seem to deflate the home side and from then the visitors slowing battled their way back into the game.

Bryansburn, only showing glimpses of attack, were now being matched all around the park and the final nail in the coffin arrived on four minutes from time when Dundonald broke away and scored a controversial 4^th goal to more or less kill the game. The ‘Burn players stopped waiting for the referee to blow for a foul but the whistle never came and they broke down the left and the winger checked inside and crossed the ball for an easy finish for Chambers and send Dundonald to a resounding victory.

The league table does not lie but even though Dundonald have picked up maximum points from the two games against Bryansburn there is still reason for optimism that the chance of promotion is far from over. Now fourteen points behind but with four games in hand all eyes will be on Dundonald who play title rivals Newcastle back to back the next two Saturdays. So although it is out of ‘Burn’s hands at present it is possible that there will be more twists and turns from now until the end of the season.

The 2^nd XI continued their climb up the Division 3C table travelling to League-leaders Nortel ll, unbeaten at home this season, and returning with a resounding 4-0 victory.

‘Burn started the game well and had Nortel pinned back from the off as neat passing from the back through the midfield to the front two had the home side all over the place. The first chance of the half fell to Captain Thompson when he headed a great Lemon corner against the bar. ‘Burn were in total control and should have taken the lead when Morrison failed to beat the keeper from inside the box. Thompson, again, found a bit of space from a corner but fired his shot wide of the post.
The Bryansburn defence was capable of dealing with anything Nortel could muster going forward and with the midfield well on top there was plenty of service to the front two who were running the back four ragged. Despite this the half finished with the game still goal-less.
After an inspiring halftime team talk by Edwards, ‘Burn came out for the second half a duly wrapped the game up within fifteen minutes. The opener came when Morrison latched onto a long ball and fired an unstoppable volley right into the top corner. The second came again from the talented Morrison who outpaced the Nortel back four and from a tight angle stroked a sweet strike into the roof of the net.
The lead was extended further with a great team effort as ‘Burn played the ball out from the back through the midfield and when Morrison flicked on to the incoming Thompson he hit a great first time effort into the net.
The visitors then made a few changes with Edwards and McCullough coming on and the scoring was complete after good work down the right from Cunningham and Kehoe carried on by Edwards who switched the play to Storey and he went on a mazy run from his own half all the way into the Nortel box before scoring with a sublime finish.
Manager Edwards was delighted with the team performance as everyone was outstanding and hopes they can carry this into this week’s big game against East Belfast ll at Ballywooley.

The 3^rd XI turned in a scintillating second half performance to hammer Comber Rec lll 6-1 at Parkway Comber.

The home side made the better start and forced one smart save from Andrews before ‘Burn began to get into the game. However once they got a foothold they caused Comber loads of problems without actually carving out too many chances. Gallagher had a rasping 25-yard drive tipped over but the only other opportunities of note fell to McComb at corners but his shots were comfortable for the keeper. With Murphy and Rea running the midfield, Gallagher marauding down the left flank and the experienced front pairing of Cardwell and Dempster pulling the Rec back four all over the place there was no doubt who was on top with the home side bickering amongst them selves. However despite their dominance and the backing of a strong wind the game remained scoreless at the break.

Bryansburn could not have made a worse start to the second half as Comber Rec broke the deadlock after a 0ne-two on the edge of the box and a good volleyed finish. ‘Burn now looked to be up against it trailing by 1-0 and against the wind. Patterson went close with a low shot just wide of the post but no-one could have guessed what was to come as Bryansburn ripped the home side apart with some brilliant football and banged in five goals in the space of fifteen minutes.

Firstly Beckett released Dempster on the left flank and he made it to the by-line, cut in and crossed for Rea to head home the equaliser. Minutes later Cardwell pounced on a loose ball in the box to stab home and the visitors’ were in the lead. Murphy then caught the home defence sleeping with a quickly taken free-kick and Rea reached it before the advancing keeper to walk it round him and roll the ball home. A good team goal followed with Rea playing Cardwell in down the inside right channel and he crossed for Gallagher to hammer home from close range. Rea then completed his first ever hat-trick for Bryansburn with a superb header after a great run and cross from Gallagher down the left. From trailing 1-0 Bryansburn were now 5-1 up and the game was over. ‘Burn proceeded to stroke the ball about with some great possession football.

Subs Speers and White were given an extended run in place of the hard-working Patterson and hat-trick hero Rea. Comber brought on a couple of experienced players but despite carving out a couple of chances they failed to hit the target. The goal of the game was saved to last. McComb played Cardwell in down the middle and as two defenders tried to challenge he bent the ball into the top corner with the outside of his boot from 25 yards.

The game then petered out with the home side well beaten and Bryansburn were left to reflect on a terrific second half showing. Good team performance with the “Man of the Match” award deservedly going to Rea on a rare appearance.

The 4^th XI held Rosemount Rec ll to a creditable 2-2 draw at Ballywooley.

In what was a very even match throughout, Rosemount struck first with a good free-kick to their striker who used his superior height to power the ball into the net. ‘Burn kept battling and were rewarded when Surgenor scored his first goal for the Club. After a good cross from Jeffers, he struck the ball into the bottom corner of the net to equalise.
The second half started well from a home perspective. A long throw from Jeffers was headed home by Taylor, which was also his first goal for Bryansburn. Rosemount kept pressing and in a goalmouth scramble Taylor handled the ball on the line and the resultant penalty was scored to make it 2-2. Rosemount nearly pinched a winner but for a great save in the last minute.

Fixtures this Saturday: 1^st XI V Ballynahinch United (a) in the 4^th Round of the Clarence Cup, 2^nd XI V East Belfast ll (h), 3^rd XI V 3^rd Bangor OB (a) and 4^th XI V Brentwood ll (h).

Please note two dates for your diary. A Nite at the Races has been organised for the Rose on Saturday 24^th April and the Annual Dinner and Awards Night will be in the Marine Court Hotel on Friday 14^th May. Tickets for both events are currently on sale from Alan Dempster.

Kane, Murray and McConkey were all unavailable, as was the suspended S.Barr but Bryansburn have a much stronger squad this season and were still able to parade a strong lineout.

‘Burn took command from the start and Coard soon released Tumelty but the keeper saved with his legs. Minutes later Tumelty was again on target, this time from a 25-yard free-kick but the home keeper was again up to the task. Then Thompson powered a header just over the bar from a corner. The deadlock was finally broken in the 23^rd minute. Culbert sent Tumelty scampering down the left flank and after skinning the Fullback he crossed low for Malomo-Paris to turn the ball in at the back post. The goal was no more then ‘Burn had deserved and they should have doubled their lead in the 27^th minute when Magee latched on to the end of a Coard free-kick only for the keeper to save his volley with his legs. ‘Burn remained on top with Tumelty in particular causing the home defence all kinds of problems.

Then, completely against the run of play, Newcastle equalised with their first shot on goal in the 34^th minute. A long throw into the Bryansburn box was flicked up in the air and with Maitland a shade too late in closing the ball down it was volleyed home from twelve yards.

Undeterred Bryansburn continued to dominate with Maguire, Coard and Thompson instrumental in the middle of the park, continually getting the ball down and playing some great football on the deck. This was in complete contrast to their counterparts who preferred to lift hoof the ball in the air towards their front two who got no change from the back four of Cooling, Maitland, Magee and Graham all of whom were outstanding.

Malomo-Paris was unfortunate with a mazy run just before the break and the keeper smothered the ball at the second attempt but the only question being asked at halftime was how were Bryansburn not winning the game after such a dominant half. HT 1-1

Five minutes into the second period Barr replaced Malomo-Paris and this was to prove an inspired substitution as he went on to lead the Newcastle defenders a merry dance for the rest of the half as well as being brought down by fouls time and time again. Cooling made two tremendous runs down the right flank but unfortunately the final balls into the box did not match the quality of the football that preceded them.

Newcastle then put together their best attacking move of the match but young Cooling made a tremendous clearing header from under his own crossbar to put the ball out for a corner when two players were lined up at the back post looking certain to score. Cooling was having a great game at both ends of the pitch and two minutes later he was upended in the home box but the referee waved away all claims for a penalty.

What turned out to be the winning goal arrived in the 64^th minute. Graham caught Newcastle out with a quickly taken throw, Tumelty hooked the ball over his shoulder high into the box and Barr held off the challenge of a defender to head into the bottom corner.

Fifteen minutes from time Thompson headed a Coard free-kick just wide of the upright before the home side had their first attempt on goal of the second half but the ball hit the side netting. Despite not looking like scoring, Newcastle did come into the game a bit and this prompted the introduction of McGimpsey for Thompson in the 82^nd minute. Newcastle probed away but sterling work from Cooling and Graham in particular meant that there was no way through. ‘Burn should have sealed the points five minutes from the end. Cooling played Barr in down the right flank and he fired over a superb cross that Culbert headed across the face of goal. As the game entered the last couple of minutes Morrison replaced Tumelty as ‘Burn reverted to a 4-4-2 formation to see the game out.

The only criticism of Bryansburn in this game is that they failed to kill the game off despite dominating the entire ninety minutes and in the final minute they could have paid the price. The referee awarded Newcastle a dubious corner and when the ball was fired in their no8 lost his marker and powered home a header from six yards out only to see Steventon pull off an unbelievable save. That was only Newcastle’s second shot on target and testimony that the points were deservedly going to the Bangor-West side.

There was still time for one of the misses of the season three minutes into injury time. A poor back-pass put the Newcastle keeper under pressure and he kicked the ball against the incoming Culbert. It hit him on the chest and rebounded back past the keeper leaving Culbert with an open goal but somehow he rolled the ball wide. Fortunately it did not matter as the final whistle went seconds later to give Bryansburn’s title challenge a deserved boost.

This was a great team performance with every man playing his part. There were sterling performances from Cooling, Coard and Thompson throughout, a blistering first half from Tumelty and an equally inspired second half from Barr. Special mention to keeper Steventon who, despite having virtually nothing to do all game, pulled off a wonder save when it really mattered at the end.

This Saturday Bryansburn will be in action in the 3^rd Round of the Clarence Cup but all eyes will be on the Billy Neil PF where Dundonald entertain Newcastle in Division 1B meaning that at least one and possibly both of ‘Burn’s rivals will drop points.

Fixtures this Saturday: 1^st XI V Lisburn Rangers (a), 2^nd XI V Sirocco Works ll (h), 3^rd XI V Ravenhill YM (a) and 4^th XI V Agape ll (h).

‘Burn made a sluggish start and allowed the visitors’ to settle early on and it was Bloomfield who had the first real attack on goal when they broke down the right and delivered a whipped cross into the box which had Graham on the back foot. However Steventon courageously came out and smothered it whilst taking a blow to his head for his efforts from the oncoming striker

After a brief spell with both teams cancelling each other out Bryansburn burst into life and within a twenty minute period ran Bloomfield ragged creating numerous chances.

First chance fell to Coard after a well-worked corner routine but his shot went high over the bar. This was quickly followed by a long-range effort from Culbert, which was comfortably dealt with by the keeper.

Malomo-Paris, with his customary turn and dart into the space, found himself clear but the visiting defence cleared his pullback to the penalty spot.

‘Burn continued to press and the opening goal eventually came after great work down the left by Coard and he delivered a great ball to Malomo-Paris who chested it down and poked it into the net under the advancing keeper from six yards.

‘Burn now had the bit between their teeth as they went in search of a second goal with a great solo effort by Graham. He picked the ball up just inside his own half and running at the Bloomfield defence, he played a neat one-two and as he entered the box he unleashed a great effort, which was dually matched by a terrific save low down to the right by the visitors’ keeper. Tumelty then nearly found himself on the score sheet as he rifled a great shot on the turn that had the keeper well beaten but unfortunately for him it went inches the wrong side of the post.

However Bryansburn were not going to be denied that 2nd goal and after a cracking tackle by Thompson in the central midfield area the ball fell to Tumelty who slightly over hit his forward pass to Coard. However, his endeavour paid off because as the defender was trying to shepherd the ball out of play Coard was able to nick the ball off him and chip the ball to Culbert at the edge of the box who took one touch to set it up and half volleyed it across the keeper for a great team goal.

Culbert was denied his 2^nd goal after a mammoth throw in from Maitland which landed at the back post for a simple header but the referee somehow came to the conclusion that the goalkeeper was impeded by Coard who never moved to get out of the way from the keeper attacking the ball.

‘Burn took their foot off the gas after that and tried to slow the play down and play possession football but this seemed to work in Bloomfield’s favour as they slowly began to creep into the game again. As half time drew close Bloomfield had a strong penalty appeal waved away when Maitland seemed to handle the ball in the area but the referee, who was in a great position, adjudged it to come off the chest and out for a corner, much to the dismay of the Bloomfield players and supporters. HT 2-0.

The visitors’, at the start of the 2^nd half, changed their formation to 3-5-2 to try and salvage something from the game and to be fair they did start the more brightly but the back four for ‘Burn were immense as they thwarted any sniff of a chance that Bloomfield tried to conjure.

Thompson and Coard, back in the team after their recent injury setbacks, started to take the initiative in central midfield and once they started to get on the ball more the team started to play some great possession football. Barr was also impressive at Left-back as he started a fair share of the ‘Burn attacks deep in defence.

Kane replaced Maitland on 70 minutes and Kane during his first defensive run felt an immediate twinge to his hamstring and he was off the pitch straight away. Hopefully the injury does not turn out to be too serious. In turn McGimpsey replaced him while Maguire gave way to teenager Morrison. The youngster gave the game the lift it needed making an immediate impact with his direct running and superb delivery into the box, which had Bloomfield stretched.

The home side extended their lead when Morrison’s great cross was well met by Talisman Thompson who thundered the ball home with his head from close range.

Bloomfield by now were out on their feet and were offering nothing in attack as ‘Burn continued to pass the ball from back to front at will looking as if they could score more if they wanted.

Tumelty, who all afternoon had been out of luck despite his constant running at the Bloomfield rearguard, was not going to be denied and deep into injury time he skipped past a weary Bloomfield defender and hit a left footed shot low across the keeper to finish off a great solo effort and put the better reflection on the score line that the performance merited.

This was a great response from the players following the disappointing defeat at Dundonald the previous week. ‘Burn at times today blew hot and cold and they have to get that out of their game. When they find themselves on top during games they need to be more ruthless in attack and not allow teams to get back into the game so easily. Special mention must go to Morrison as his introduction to the game rounded off a great team performance and it shows the youth system at Bryansburn is clearly benefiting the Club. Four goals and more importantly a clean sheet sets the side up well for the long trip to title favourites Newcastle this Saturday.

Bryansburn 2nds travelled to 18th Newtownabbey and returned with a comfortable 4-1 win. Bryansburn were by far the better team start to finish and should have returned with a bigger victory against a side who lost their discipline late on and finished the game with eight men after three red cards.
’Burn started the game well and had 18th pegged back from the start with the back four and midfield in total control and the front line working hard. Bryansburn should have opened the scoring on several occasions but failed to do so and the half finished 0-0.

The visitors’ remained on top in the second period but without many shots on target.
Flynn replaced the injured Bowater and his pace had 18th troubled straight away as he raced to the by-line and crossed for Kehoe to hammer home from close range. Within five minutes 18th were back in it when a long ball over the top fall straight to a forward who equalised with their first shot of the game.
Player-Manager Edwards then replaced Corr and within ten minutes found the net when he followed in a Storey shot that the keeper had fumbled and rounded the keeper for a tap in. Flynn was now running the back four all over the place and when he got upended in the box up stepped Edwards to scuff the resulting penalty wide. However ‘Burn got a deserved third goal when Flynn again made the line and crossed for the incoming Storey to slide the ball home. The fourth and final goal came when Edwards made a great run to beat the offside trap and then sold the keeper a “Ronaldo stepover” before rolling the ball into the empty net.

Good performance from the 2nds with the Bryansburn passing just too good on the day for the home team.

The 3^rd XI had a hard fought 2-1 win at Vision Athletic with both goals coming from Cardwell who took his season tally to twenty goals.

Cardwell should actually have opened the scoring in the opening minute when Gallagher’s flick put him clean through with just the keeper to beat but he put his shot wide. The home side came into the game well and forced one good save from Andrews while missing a couple of other chances. On fourteen minutes ‘Burn opened the scoring. Dempster headed Lemon’s corner back across goal for Cardwell to head home. ‘Burn forced a series of corners during the half, all of which caused the home side problems but it was Vision who carved out the better opportunities but they failed to hit the target.

Bryansburn had a major escape in the opening minute of the second half when the home side rattled the crossbar but although Vision remained on top they the standard of their finishing failed to match some decent approach play. ‘Burn resorted to the counter-attack and nearly caught their hosts a couple of times before they did extend their lead midway through the half. Murphy was the provider as he released Cardwell and he held off a defender before finishing well into the bottom corner.

Vision maintained the balance of play but Bryansburn looked like holding out comfortably enough until the 82^nd minute. Murphy sold Jones short with a short pass and as the teenager tried to rescue the situation he caught an attacker. Even then the foul was outside the area but the referee deemed otherwise and the home side pulled a goal back from the penalty spot.

Vision tried in vain for an equaliser but Bryansburn used all their experience to make sure that the three points were kept in the bag.

The 4^th XI suffered a heavy defeat at a very good Moat Park Rangers ll side that have now put themselves in contention for the title.

‘Burn made the worst possible start falling a goal behind after only four minutes against their in-form hosts. Their forward lost his marker to be allowed a free header from six yards, which gave keeper Gardner no chance. ‘Burn were relying on quick breaks and from one of these J Geddis played Turnbull through and he showed great persistence to hold off a couple of challenges and round the keeper to score an equaliser in the 21^st minute. The continuous pressure told however and another header from close range restored Moat Park’s lead. ‘Burn reached the half way point quite pleased to be just one goal behind and with hopes of causing an upset.

These hopes were dashed ten minutes into the second half when a poor goal kick went straight to a Moat Park forward who ran through to finish easily. The game was over as a contest five minutes later when a mix up with a back pass led to the fourth goal. Bryansburn battled well and created a couple of half chances but it was Moat Park who went on to extend their lead. A visibly tiring ‘Burn side then went on to concede a further two late goals which made the final score 7 – 1 to Moat Park.

Fixtures this Saturday: 1^st XI V Newcastle (a), 2^nd XI V Larne Tech OB ll (h), 3^rd XI V Comber YM (h) and 4^th XI V Comber YM ll (h).

Everyone connected with Bryansburn Rangers FC was saddened to hear of the death of Gordon Matchett’s mother. Our thoughts are with him and his family at this difficult time. The funeral is at 9.30am on Saturday at Bangor Abbey.

Bryansburn started the game on fire and were in the ascendancy right from the first whistle and could have found themselves in front within the opening minute when a high ball flicked on by Culbert was met by Rick Barr but his great effort went inches over the bar.

The visitors continued to press early on and took the lead after only four minutes when a well-worked corner on the right between Steven Barr and Coard found Culbert at the back post to rifle it high into the roof of the net for the perfect start.

‘Burn, turning the screw, were in search of the second goal and had Dundonald pinned back in their own half with Rick Barr looking the most dangerous playing down the right flank.

However, against the run of play, in the 14^th minute, a long ball from defence to attack sent Dundonald’s Fisher clear down the right channel and Graham could do nothing but pull him to the ground just outside the box.

Up stepped Harvey for Dundonald who outwitted the ‘Burn side by unleashing a shot around the one-man wall into the net whilst the goalkeeper and defence stood static contemplating a cross.

Bryansburn responded well to this setback and took the game to Dundonald and began to create chance after chance.

Rick Barr on two occasions found himself clear in on goal but his delayed final ball or shot and he was crowded out.

Another telling cross from Rick Barr found Culbert but his header dipped just over the bar. The same player was unfortunate soon after as he connected with a volley just inside the box when the best option was maybe to take a touch but on another day it could have bust the net.

There were then two big decisions by the referee that helped define the outcome of this match. Firstly Bryansburn were denied a stonewall penalty when a shot from the edge of the box was blocked by the hand of the Dundonald defender. Then another controversial decision followed after a back pass to the home keeper was well closed down by Rick Barr and although the ball clearly hit him on the chest the referee harshly deemed it to be a handball.

Bryansburn were still well on top and after another goalmouth scramble Culbert had three snap shot attempts on goal as he tried to force the ball home but Dundonald defence stood firm.

Another chance of note was after more great work down the right from Rick Barr his delivery was flicked on by Culbert but Coard playing his first game in three months tried an acrobatic overhead kick and his effort went inches wide of the upright.

On the stroke of half time Dundonald gave a warning of what was to materialise during the 2^nd half when they broke away down the right channel once again and a telling cross was lost in flight by the ‘Burn goalkeeper and the ball fell to a Dundonald striker whose shot was brilliantly cleared off the line by Magee.

HT 1-1

The 2^nd half started with the home side looking a lot more urgent and playing with more impetus. It was evident that their game plan was to play quick high balls to the stocky built Centre-forward and for the rest to feed off him. It was clearly working as the visitors’ defence, for the first time, looked uncomfortable and under pressure.

Ten minutes in the game turned on its head when Dundonald were awarded a penalty when Matthews was scythed down by Graham who could have no complaints when the referee pointed to the spot. Harvey duly obliged when he despatched his 2nd goal of the game hitting his penalty in off the right hand post.

Bryansburn’s woes deepened when injury prone Magee had to depart due to injury and Maitland replaced him in the centre of the defence. Then a shot by a home striker came off the post and just when it looked as if ‘Burn had escaped, it rebounded back into the grasp of goalkeeper Galbraith but he fumbled it and as Maitland tried to help him out, his clearance only found the midriff of the advancing striker and it rebounded into the net for what can only be described as a farcical goal.

This goal knocked the stuffing out of the visitors and from then on there was only one team in the contest. Dundonald’s trio of forwards were giving the ‘Burn defence a torrid time and were cutting them open at will.

With the midfield three now showing their superiority a 4^th goal looked inevitable but the best chances fell to Matthews wide on the right as he found himself clear on two occasions but his resulting shots were squandered. Dundonald were reduced to ten men late on when the same player was firstly booked for a foul on Cooling. He then trod on thin ice when he kicked out but his fate was sealed when he kicked the ball away minutes from the end of the game

Chances came and went for Dundonald as the visitors looked as if they were looking for the whistle but there was still time for Coard to have an effort on goal. A deep cross form the right found Coard unmarked at the back post but his header was well saved by the keeper and this effort was closely followed by a shot by Culbert from just inside the box which was well met on the line by the Dundonald defender.

The game petered out after that as the home side ran out worthy winners in the end.

Bryansburn have to take the positives from their first half performance as they could easily have had the game won by halftime. It was not to be but to go unbeaten in the league until mid February is still a gallant effort but the side need to get this 2^nd half performance out of their system and get back on track with their next game at home to Bloomfield this Saturday.

The 2^nd XI battled to an entertaining 4-4 draw with Mossley YM ll at Ballywooley in a game were the initiative swung from end to end.

The home side started well but it was Mossley who took command with two goals in the opening twenty minutes. Bryansburn fought back superbly and Andy Thompson reduced the deficit with a header before being pushed in the box and stand-in keeper Edwards equalised from the penalty spot. The comeback was complete just before the break when Morrison scored to put Bryansburn 3-2 up at halftime.

Mossley wrestled the advantage back with two goals in the opening fifteen minutes of the second half to lead 4-3. After that the game flowed from end to end with Mossley unable to get the strike that would kill the game off and ‘Burn failing to get an equaliser. The score remained the same until two minutes from time when Peeples powered home a header to leave the final score 4-4. Overall a draw was probably a fair result.

The 3^rd XI were second best for large periods of their game at home to Comber Star but a rousing finale saw them run out 4-2 winners.

‘Burn made a bright start playing all the football and dominating possession and were particularly unlucky not to take the lead when a Dempster header from a Beattie corner seemed to be cleared after it crossed the line but the referee waved play on. Comber then came into the game and deservedly took the lead when the home defence failed to clear and a forward scored from close range. The visitors should then have doubled their advantage when a penalty was harshly awarded after a challenge by McComb. However the resultant penalty was fired over the bar. ‘Burn failed to capitalise on this escape and Comber continued to create and miss chances on a regular basis with the home side fortunate to only be trailing by one goal.

Bryansburn had one good opportunity when Cardwell fired inches wide from close range.

The second half continued in the same vein as the first with Comber Star well on top but failing to accept any of the chances to extend their lead. With it being seemingly only a matter of time until the game slipped away Bryansburn made a tactical switch pulling Cardwell back into midfield and pushing Gallagher up front and the move reaped dividends minutes later. Cardwell made a superb run and slipped the ball through for Gallagher to equalise. Three minutes after this the game was turned totally on its head when Owens popped up at the back post to volley home a Beckett cross and ‘Burn were now winning a game that they were fortunate to still be in. Gallagher then pounced for his second goal of the match and it was 3-1. Murphy and Cardwell were now running riot in the centre of the park and the visiting keeper made great saves to deny Cole and also Gallagher his hat-trick. Shivers also came on for a cameo role and helped carve out a few chances.

With the points seemingly in the bag Comber reduced the deficit with a blistering volley that seemed to hit the post and then Beckett on the line but the referee gave the goal. With only a couple of minutes remaining Comber sensed the chance to rescue a point but all hopes were quickly distinguished with the goal of the game. Dempster slipped his marker at the corner of the box and curled a delightful effort into the top corner past a static keeper. Game over.

The 4^th XI travelled to title challengers Greenwell Star ll and were well beaten 5-1.

Greenwell started the stronger and stand-in keeper Geddis had to make a couple of early saves. ‘Burn started to settle but went a goal behind after fifteen minutes when a missed clearance allowed the Centre-forward to fire home into the left hand corner from 15 yards. ‘Burn rallied and equalised five minutes later when Patterson showed great persistence to create a chance which he converted with a good right foot shot. Unfortunately poor defending cost Bryansburn again as Greenwell regained the lead on the half hour mark. ‘Burn would have been content to go in 2-1 down at halftime but five minutes from the break failure to clear properly resulted in a cross being powerfully headed home to put Greenwell’s 2 goals to the good.

Bryansburn began the second half strongly without really troubling the Greenwell keeper and gained in confidence as the game went on. Greenwell did create several chances but found Geddis in fine form in goals and he made at least three excellent saves to keep his side in contention. In the 82^nd minute a clumsy challenge resulted in a penalty to Greenwell, which was duly converted, and Burn’s improved second half performance was undone by a fifth goal just before the end.

Best for ‘Burn was Geddis in goals who was let down by a poor performance by his defence.

This Saturday: 1^st XI V Bloomfield (h), 2^nd XI V 18^th Newtownabbey OB ll (a), 3^rd XI V Vision Athletic (a) and 4^th XI V Moat Park Rangers ll (a).

Everyone connected with Bryansburn Football Club would like to pass on deepest sympathy to Vice Chairman Graham Lowry on his recent bereavement. Our thoughts are with him.

‘Burn took the lead after 15 minutes when a sweeping ball from the left by S Barr was latched onto by R Barr who took his time before smashing his shot by the keeper into the roof of the net. ‘Burn increased their lead on the half hour mark when Tumelty curled in a free kick from 20 yards which left the keeper with no chance. With half time approaching Shorts got back into the game when the centre forward tapped home from close range after Galbraith had saved his original effort.

The second half was only a couple of minutes old when Shorts got the equaliser as Bryansburn where caught cold although the strike from the edge of the box gave keeper Galbraith no chance. ‘Burn then upped their game again and created several good chances but failed to get the lead back until Tumelty scored again after some excellent work down the right flank by Culbert who had chased a long ball by S Barr. As time was running out and Burn seemed “dead on their feet” substitute Thompson scored with his first touch after being released by Culbert.

A solid performance after all the cup games that ‘Burn have played recently and good to get three points considering all of their title rivals where occupied with cup games this week.

Bryansburn 2^nd XI travelled to Larne in Walter Moore Cup action on Saturday but suffered a 2-1 defeat to Wellington Rec ll.
The tie had a scrappy start with both teams unable to get their passing games going and it came as no surprise when the first goal came from a hopeful punt upfield which the ‘Burn defence failed to clear and the Wellington striker scored with a simple finish. The setback woke the visitors up and they started to string a few moves together but unfortunately the front pair wasted every chance that came their way.
’Burn were denied a penalty when Flynn was tackled from behind and the referee waved play on claiming that he had tripped over a rabbit hole.
The 2nd half started well for Bryansburn as they put Wellington under a lot of pressure despite failing to trouble the keeper. Corr came on for Flynn and linked play up with the midfield more as ‘Burn searched for a goal. However it was Wellington who doubled their lead when they got down the wing and put a good cross in and with all ‘Burn players turning away as the ball went out on its way over, a home player tapped in. The referee, 30 yards away, let the goal stand.
Bryansburn again pushed hard and finally pulled a goal back when Edwards connected well with a cross to fire into the corner of the net.
Peeples replaced the injured Bowater but with time running out the visitors failed to grab the equaliser that would have forced extra time.

On the day Bryansburn played well enough but the strike force failed to capitalise on the chances that were created.

The 3^rd XI lost 2-1 at Comber YM in a game that was always in the balance and either side could have won.

‘Burn started well and the Comber keeper made a superb save to deny Dempster in only the 2^nd minute. Minutes later Bryansburn were awarded a penalty when Gallagher, making his return after several months out injured, surged down the left flank and was chopped as he went into the box. Dempster slotted home the resultant spot kick to give ‘Burn a deserved lead.

Comber came back strongly and had a glorious chance to equalise when Cole made a rash tackle in the box and the referee pointed to the spot. However keeper Andrews made a great stop from the penalty kick. Comber went close several times to an equaliser with Andrews making a couple of smart saves before Bryansburn should have extended their lead. Cardwell burst through and lobbed the advancing keeper but just as the ball was going in to the unguarded net an awkward bounce saw it hit the post and stay out. The miss was to prove costly as minutes later Comber equalised. Andrews reacted brilliantly to tip a rasping shot against the crossbar but unfortunately the rebound went straight to a home forward who made no mistake.

Dempster had a header saved from an excellent Beckett cross and likewise McComb from a Beattie corner but the game remained 1-1 at the break.

The second half was in the balance with both sides having chances to snatch all three points. Bryansburn had three free-kicks at the edge of the box but only Cole managed to work the keeper while Cardwell hooked a close-range shot just over. At the other end ‘Burn defended well and Andrews dealt capably with anything that did get through.

What proved to be the winning goal came midway through the half when Comber crossed from the right and although Andrews got a hand to the header he could not keep it out. Bryansburn finished strongly searching for an equaliser but despite a lot of possession and territorial advantage failed to create many chances. The home side had a goal disallowed late on for offside but that did not matter as they held on to win 2-1.

The 4ths match against Moat Park Rangers ll was off due to a waterlogged pitch.

Fixtures this Saturday: 1^st XI V Dundonald (a), 2^nd XI V Mossley YM ll (h), 3^rd XI V Comber Star (h) and 4^th XI V Greenwell Star ll (a).

‘Burn put in a rather jaded performance with their recent Cup exploits seemingly having taken a toll whereas the home side looked brighter and more up for the game throughout but Bryansburn are in the next round and that is the most important thing.

The first half was a bit of a non-event with the two sides mustering just one shot on target between them. That came courtesy of a Graham header from a Mayne free-kick in the 9^th minute which Bryansburn keeper Steventon tipped over the bar. Bryansburn shaded the early exchanges passing the ball about well without really creating much. Tumelty made a good run down the inside right channel and his cross somehow eluded everyone in the middle. S.Barr played a ball over the top to put R.Barr in the clear but he lobbed over both the advancing keeper and the bar while a minute later Tumelty went close from long-range.

In the 29^th minute Bryansburn’s S.Barr and Mayne of Bangor Rangers clashed and Mayne kicked out leaving the referee little choice but to brandish a straight red card. However despite the man advantage the Bryansburn play still lacked a sense of urgency and they only managed to carve out two more chances before the break both of which fell to Tumelty. Firstly he latched on to a four man move but shot over and then when Cooling found him with a superb ball he turned his man well but again shot over. Bangor had a chance at the other end in the 42^nd minute when Drew burst into the box but his low effort went wide. HT 0-0

Nine minutes into the second half ‘Burn at last threatened the home goal. A long diagonal ball from Graham found S.Barr wide on the left and his cross was met by R.Barr but the keeper saved well and then reacted swiftly to deny McGimpsey from the rebound. A minute later a tame McKee shot was fumbled by Steventon for a corner before ‘Burn made their first change bringing on Kane for Thompson with Graham moving into midfield. On the hour the deadlock was broken. Cooling surged down the right and found R.Barr at the near post. He turned his marker and crossed low to the back post where Tumelty pounced to score. Bangor Rangers looked to have equalised from a corner in the 66^th minute but the ball was somehow kept out in a goalmouth scramble. Young Morrison replaced McGimpsey in the 71^st minute and five minutes later ‘Burn should have doubled their advantage. Graham chipped the ball forward to Culbert and he held the ball up well before back-heeling to Tumelty but his shot was saved.

The closing stages were totally dominated by Bangor Rangers. In the 78^th minute Maguire chopped a Bangor player on the edge of the box. The resultant free-kick hit the wall but seconds later Maguire received a second yellow card for handball and he was given his marching orders. Then a Kane foul on the edge of the box stopped another powerful run and he too went into the book. This time the free-kick sailed over the bar.

The home side stepped up the pressure and forced several corners in succession while Steventon tipped a low drive round the post. Finally Bangor Rangers got the equaliser they deserved in the 87^th minute. Steventon made two superb saves before the ball was crossed in and headed home by Graham. However there was to be a twist in the tale. One minute later the ball was played up to Morrison and he held the ball up well before finding Tumelty and he drilled the ball into the bottom corner for a welcome although somewhat undeserved winner.

Malomo-Paris replaced Culbert on the ninety minutes and ‘Burn professionally run the clock down for the three minutes of injury time.

As stated not one of Bryansburn’s better performances but still another victory. Now the side need to get back on form for their long-awaited return to League action on Saturday.

On Saturday the 1^st XI’s game at League-leaders Dundonald was called off at midday due to a frozen pitch.

Bryansburn 2^nd XI notched a much needed victory away to Sirocco Works ll returning with a well-deserved 4-0 win.
’Burn were well up for this match and should of taken a 1st minute lead when Bowater was put through but his looped effort went just went over. Bryansburn kept up the pressure and had another great chance when the lively Morrison ran on to a Bowater pass but did not connect right and sent his shot wide. ‘Burn pushed hard and had a few half chances but failed to score as the 1st half ended 0-0.
The 2nd half started in the same fashion as the first with plenty of ‘Burn pressure and the visitors finally got the breakthrough on the hour mark. Bowater hit a great free-kick, which the keeper fumbled and Malomo-Paris was on hand to poke the ball home.
’Burn doubled their lead five minutes later when Morrison put in a good ball which Bowater took down with a great touch and hit on the turn giving the keeper no chance. Sirocco tried to get back into the game but never troubled the returning Galbraith in goal with Bryansburn’s midfield and defence stopping every attack they mounted.
Bryansburn made a couple of changes with Flynn and Storey coming on and they settled in right away with Flynn smashing a volley right into the top corner of the net to make it three nil and kill the game off.
With tens minutes left Cunningham replaced Kehoe as Bryansburn ran down the clock with a passing game that had Sirocco chasing shadows at times and this led to ‘Burn’s fourth goal when good closing down saw the ball come to Flynn all of thirty yards out and he fired a unstoppable drive right in the corner of the net.
This was a great team performance in a game ‘Burn controlled from start to finish without a single sirocco shot on target. It would be unfair to single anyone out, as the whole team were outstanding.

The 3^rd XI’s trip to Comber Rec lll was also called off late on Saturday morning due to a frozen pitch.

Bryansburn 4^th XI were given a football lesson by a strong Moat Park Rangers ll side at Dundonald crashing out of the Reserve Team Cup at the 2^nd Round stage.

The home side put ‘Burn under pressure from the start with their fast attacking play. Bryansburn survived a couple of near misses before Moat Park took the lead after twenty minutes when a shot was deflected to give keeper Gardner no chance. ‘Burn had to rely on occasional breaks from defence and from one of these Patterson showed good persistence to fire home for a surprise equaliser. Moat Park responded strongly with Gardner being kept busy and saving well on a number of occasions. Almost inevitably the pressure told and they worked the ball well with a deep cross being headed powerfully home.

The second half continued in much the same vein. ‘Burn defended valiantly but lost McAllister and Geddis to injury before Moat Park extended their lead. Their dominance was confirmed when a cross from the right was deflected into the net and when Gardner saved well only for the rebound to be slotted home to leave the final score 5 – 1 to Moat Park.

Training continues tonight (Thur) at Ward Park, 6pm.

Fixtures for Saturday: 1^st XI V Shorts FC (a), 2^nd XI V Wellington Rec ll (h), 3^rd XI V Comber YM (a) and 4^th XI V Moat Park Rangers ll (h).

On Saturday Bryansburn are holding a quiz night at the Club, 7.30pm. It is asked that all members make a special effort to attend. Quizmaster is David Corr.

Finally everyone connected to the Club would like to pass on their deepest sympathy to Sonya and Gary Beattie after the death of Sonya’s mother. Our thoughts are with you.