Congratulations to New-Bridge Under 13’s as they join the Under 15’s in the semi-finals of South Down League after a comfortable win against a very spirited Newry a High School team.  New-Bridge dominated early possession and territory against a team set up to hit on the counter attack. Some of the early chances were created through good play down either side of the pitch with Stephen Gallagher and Oisin Campbell the provides of some good crosses and pull backs which brought about several excellent saves from the Newry goalkeeper. The first goal came after a series of corner in a short space of time as Conor Weir’s delivery got better with each corner, and it was unfortunate that the opening goal came from a a good cross from Conor to see the ball knocked into the net by a Newry defender.

Half time 1-0

Second half saw New-Bridge continue to open the game up through Stephen Gallagher down the right wing, but this good attacking play failed to be capitalised on by Peter and Conor.  As the game settled into a pattern, Newry looked to gain confidence coming forward through creative mid-field play and a quick forward.  Calum Meara looked confident and in control throughout the game stepping forward to tackle well and beginning to distribute the ball into the wide channels. It was from the right that the second and third goals came. Stephen Gallagher linked well with Ryan Donnelly from a throw-in to cross for Conor Weir to attack the front post and collect a well deserved goal for his busy afternoon.  Captain Peter McGrath was not to let his team mates gain all the glory.  Peter was continually involved in excellent link play coming off his man and bringing the ball in and passing into the wide channels.

It was from another throw-in that Stephen, Ryan Donnelly and finally Shea Winters created the third goal.  Shea received a pass on the corner of the box and beat two Newry defenders with some excellent footwork to pull the ball back for Peter to score from his best range ‘inside the 6 yard box’

At 3-0 New-Bridge were comfortable which enabled the loyal subs to get there moment in front of the ever present Sixth Form boys and Miss Murphy’s Year 9 class.

New-Bridge now play Dromore in both U13 and U15 semi- finals before the end of January.