CRUMLIN STAR II 2 - 0 ARD RANGERS II

Star II continued their good run of form when they beat rivals Ard Rangers II at Mallusk. Star made a few changes to the line up with Mc Mullan replacing the unavailable Collins at centre half with Toner and Cairns returning to the starting line up. Star started the match brightly with Toner's strength upfront causing problems as he found space on the wing and found Mc Nally who blazed over from 10 yards. Toner then went on a mazy run but he dragged his shot wide. Ards came more into the game but impressive defending from Hawkins, Mallon, Mc Mullan and O' Neill kept the scores level. The pace of Doyle and Mc Nally skill was a good outlet for Star and they went deservedly infront when O'Halloran squared to Mc Nally who tapped home to put Star infront. Star were playing some good football but Ards were always a danger and missed chances from Cairns and Doyle meant Star went into the break just 1-0 infront. H/T 1-0

Star started the second half abit sloppy however Ards did not make them pay and Mc Neill in goal was rarely troubled. Cairns thought he had scored when he hit a curling effort from 18 yards however the Ards keeper pulled off a great save. Star's midfield of Gormley, O Halloran and Ciarns were battling and passing the ball well to supply the front three. With 25 to go (S) Murray replaced Hawkins. Star were let off with 20 minutes to go when the Ards striker broke clear but his effort hit the crossbar. (D) Murray replaced Doyle and the game was made safe minutes later when Cairns lobbed the keeper at his second attempt to put Star 2 goals infront. Star held on for an impressive victory and the management duo Hagans and Toner were delighted with their team's form. F/T2-0

Towser: Constant threat upfront on Saturday