Comber Rec booked their place in the second round of this season’s Intermediate Cup with an emphatic 7–0 victory over Malachians, although the final score line perhaps disguised a competitive opening to the game.

The visitors made a bright start and came agonisingly close to taking an early lead when their number nine unleashed a powerful effort that crashed against the crossbar, leaving the Rec fortunate not to fall behind.

That early scare proved to be the wake-up call Comber needed, and they responded in spectacular fashion. Mathinson broke the deadlock with a stunning strike, giving the Rec the advantage and settling any early nerves.

To their credit, Malachians continued to pose a threat and came close to finding an equaliser, but Comber gradually began to assert their authority on the contest. As the game progressed, the home side grew in confidence, taking control of possession and producing some excellent attacking football.

Once the Rec found their rhythm, there was no looking back. Further goals from Sofley, Nelson, E. Wilson, Donaldson and Walker, along with an own goal from the visitors, completed an impressive seven-goal haul.

Despite their promising start, Malachians simply had no answer to Comber's attacking strength as the home side demonstrated their clinical finishing and ability to turn opportunities into goals.

It was a thoroughly convincing performance from the Rec, who recovered well from that early scare to run out comfortable winners and safely secure their passage into the second round of the Intermediate Cup.