Downpatrick returned to winning ways after last weeks defeat in the league to progress to the semi-final of the Shield. Downpatrick got of to a slow start and found themselves being over run in midfield and at times they were chasing shadows.
However as the game wore on the managed to get a foot-hold in the game and carve out some chances for themselves. Callum Shields had a one on one with the goal keeper but saw his effort saved by the keeper. Nathan McShane and Rory Anderson were also guilty of missing score able chances. North Belfast punished Downpatrick for missing the chances in the first half by scoring a goal just before halftime.
Half Time: Downpatrick FC 0 v North Belfast 1
A few tactical changes at half time saw John Patterson move into centre midfield and within five minutes Downpatrick were back on level terms. James McAleenan won the ball in midfield and played a through ball for Shields to run onto and finish superbly.
McShane then had two good chances to score after brilliant work from Eoin Darragh down the right wing. Nathan McShane didn’t have long to wait for a third chance and this time he made no mistake, Shields sent over a perfect cross for McShane to score with his left foot.
In the final ten minutes of the game Downpatrick had a couple of chances to score with Rory Anderson in particular unlucky when his shot cannoned of the bar. Downpatrick can be happy with the result especially after last weeks defeat and now look forward to a semi-final against Lisburn Youth in a few weeks time.
