Downpatrick under 16’s continued their impressive start to life in the Lisburn League with another solid performance on Saturday against Lisburn Rangers at Ballymacoss. Downpatrick were forced into making several changes before the game due to injuries, especially in the defence. Downpatrick’s opening goal came via a 20 yard free kick from striker Callum Shields. The tall striker placed the ball with confidence in the top corner of the net giving the Lisburn Rangers keeper no chance. This was after John Patterson had been fouled after a superb run from midfield.

Five minutes later Downpatrick had doubled their advantage through Rory Anderson, Anderson was playing in a further advanced position and took his goal well. James McAleenan played a wonderful through ball from defence for Anderson to run on to and side foot past the advancing goal keeper. Rory Anderson should have doubled his tally straight from the kick off when he closed down the ball after centre was taken and raced through the Rangers defence and agonisingly poked the ball the wrong side of the post.

Half Time: Downpatrick FC 2 v’s Lisburn Rangers 0

Downpatrick continued to dominate the second half and some of the one touch football and phases of passing they played was a joy to watch. The Downpatrick management made substitutions early in the second half, bringing Eoin Darragh, Nathan McShane and Ben Curran. All three substitutes had a part to play in Downpatrick’s third goal, with Eoin Darragh winning the ball in midfield and passing to Curran. Ben played a great ball for McShane to control and lob the stranded Lisburn Rangers keeper.

Downpatrick controlled this game from start to finish with keeper Fintan Canavan hardly being called into action, John Hill and McAleenan were the star performers for Downpatrick in a much changed defensive line. Harder tests lay ahead for this under 16 team but at present they are dealing with everything that is asked of them and this is what pleases the management.