2 games left and Star just need a point to secure the league title after a terrific performance against an out of form Groomsport side. Star's first half performance was one of their best displays this season as they scored 4 goals and effectively ended the game as a contest before half time. Star got off to the perfect start to ease any nerves when Devenny beat the keeper in the air to nod Star infront from a Mc Kervey cross after 2 minutes. A second quickly followed when Mooney broke the offside trap and rounded the keeper, the small midfielder then unselfishfully squared to Devenny and he tapped home from 2 yards out to get his second and double the home side's lead. Mooney should have got on the scoresheet himself when a pinpoint long ball from McKervey put him clear however his effort went over the bar. Paul Brown as always got on the scoresheet as well as the groomsport keeper midjudged the bounce of the ball and Brown on the turn smashed the ball into the top corner. Star were playing very well on a bumpy pitch with Reid and Braniff controlling the midfield at ease with Mooney and Mc Kervey causing problems down the wings. Star's full backs of Mc Alea and O'Reilly got forward at every opportunity and it was the latter who made the game safe just before half time when he cooly finished into the bottom corner after a P Brown dummy and a great move down the right. H/T 4-0

 

Manager Hawkins urged more of the same from his side at half time. With 35 minutes to go S Brown, Mc Connell and Mc Coey replaced Mooney, Mc Kervey and O'Reilly. Mc Connall thought he had scored when his header had crossed the line however the ref did not give it however moments later it was five when P Brown beat a defender and rounded the keeper to slot home into an empty net. Credit to Groomsport who continued to fight to the end and did so trying to play good passing football. Star had a few more chances with Reid going close from the edge of the area and Braniff heading straight at the keeper from close range. S Brown should have made it six however his lob just went over. Groomsport did get a late consolation when their defender scored from a free kick that gave Thompson no chance. Star's Thompson, Keenan and Burns had little to do all day and Star ran out deserved winners. Next week Star are away to Bangor amateurs as they look to win the league title.

 

Starman: P Brown

 

Team: Thompson, Keenan, Burns, Mc Alea, O'Reilly, McKervey, Reid, Mooney, Braniff, P Brown, Devenny   Subs: S Brown, Mc Connall, Mc Coey