Crumlin Star II 4 - 3 18th Newtownabbey II

Star seconds picked up 3 crucial points to keep them in the running for promotion. The game started very scrappy with neither team really dominating possession or creating any chances. As the half went on Star started to take control with Gormley and Scully spreading the play to Braniff and Mc Mullan on the wings to attack and Star had some tame efforts by Toner and Braniff saved. 18th looked to counter attack but their final ball was letting them down with Star's goal not really troubled. Star real first chance came from several one twos between (S) Murray and Mc Mullan down the right side and (S) Murray pass found Gormley who had his shot saved off the line and Scully's follow up also saved off the line. With Star passing well and now the better team they looked for the opener but a mistake by Dillion allowed the 18th forward clear on goal and he rounded the keeper and put 18th in the lead. Despite the setback Star got level when (S) Murray crossed for young Doyle to head home into the bottom corner and bring the sides level. Just before half time Star went infront when Toner rolled back the years and beat 2 defenders and his pin point cross was met by Gormley who headed into the top of the net. H/T 2-1

A minute after half time 18th drew level after some slack marking from Star at a corner. Another blow which broke Star out of their stride with 18th pressurising however Hawkins and Mallon were playing well at centre back. Star regained the lead when Gormley crossed for Mc Mullan to rise highest and head into the top corner. However Star lost the lead once again when 18th scored a few mins later to set up a tense last 25 minutes with both teams pushing for the winner. Fortunately Star got the winner when Braniff struck a 18 yard volley low into the bottom corner to edge Star infront. Scully brought on (D) Murray and Osborne to see the last 20 mins out and Mc Gibben made a good save near the end and Star held out for the win. Manager Scully was pleased with the 3 points but knows his side must be more clinical and defend better as a unit. 

Starman: Jim Mc Mullan

Jim Mc Mullan : Man of the Match performance for the seconds on Saturday