Under 17's match report.

Comber Rec 5-1 Bangor Rangers

Comber kicked off at Park Way on Saturday looking for the elusive win their previous two performances have deserved against unknown opposition in the form of Bangor Rangers. A few changes were made to the team with pace and creativity added in the form of the right back Beattie and centre midfielder Irwin. The start of the game was sluggish with neither team willing to hold onto the ball and with Browne relishing the added responsibility of marshalling the defence this season, comber looked solid at the back. After about 20 minutes the game sparked into life when the No. 5 for Bangor rifled in a volley from about 25 yards but fortunately for Comber he was correctly adjudged to be offside. A timely let-off! From the resultant free kick, Hanna squared a ball to Irwin who’s fiercely struck shot nestled low in the bottom corner of the net with the ‘keeper having no chance. Comber upped their tempo with the Midfield of Majury and (especially) Irwin, keeping possession and allowing Pinnons and Hanna to take on their respective full backs. The second came from great work down the right and when the ball was flashed across the box, the right-back Beattie had charged forward and made no mistake from close range. The Comber defence however went to sleep and allowed Bangor to get back in the game through their No 8 who made a surging run and looped a header over Topping (who almost made a great save).

Half Time 1-1

The comber management, again, impressed on the team that they needed to have a quick start and this time it happened. Irwin, was getting a lot of time on the ball and his vision and passing were releasing Pinnons and Hanna who were gaining more and more joy down the flanks. It was Irwin who put the nail in the Bangor coffin, again with a fierce low shot that the ‘keeper could only watch fly into the bottom corner. Comber moved up a gear and the goal of the came came from a flowing move. Irwin picked up the ball and fed Hanna. Majury then made a surging run between centre half and full back and Hanna fed him. The ball in from Majury was low and hard and even though Crooks miscued his finish, Laird was on hand to lash the ball in from 8 yards out. All 5 subs were used and all 5 demonstrated the strength and depth of the comber squad. In fact it was a sub (with probably his only touch of the ball) that scored the 5th. Crooks got free on the right and fired a low cross along the 6 yard box where Wylies instinct took him to the ball and he finished smartly. A real poachers goal.

Full time 5-1

Everybody played their part in this victory and I was very impressed with Browne in defence who’s performances have been getting better and better however man of the match goes to Irwin, who’s performance was of the highest order and he deserved his two goals!

Stephen Carse would like to personally thank both sets of players, management and the referee for the impeccable minutes silence observed before the game. It was very much appreciated.