Saturday 13th January saw BUFC play host to Dundonald FC at the Millbridge. United were hoping to carry over their current form from the previous two games into this one, however they knew it would be a battle against a strong Dundonald side.
It was a cold day at The Millbridge but United got off to a ‘hot’ start. From kick off United looked right up for it, and within the first minute they found themselves a goal up.
Some great work in the middle of the park lead to a fantastic ball to Tommy Rodgers who found himself with space on the right wing. Tommy delivered an exceptional ball, driven low and early into the box, which invited Gregg Allison to slide in and poke it home at the front post.
Within minutes, United saw their lead doubled. Again, battling well in the midfield, David Kelly, Gavin Crawford, and Naseem Ouldhamlat were able to get a foot on the ball and work it out wide again. Another great ball delivered into the box caused confusion amongst the Dundonald defence and arriving at the back post to slot home his second of the match was Gregg Allison, A brace to celebrate his welcomed return to the team after time out with an ankle injury.
As the first half went on, Dundonald found themselves getting a foothold in the game. However, the resilient and exceptional work from United’s back line and goalkeeper meant Dundonald had to result to longer ranged shots.
Pressure was added to United’s defence later into the first half, however the defensive line of Jamie McNeill, Chris Coleman, Greg Hall and Sam Lurring stood firm. Dundonald’s best chance came at the end of the first half but Stefan Graham was able to smother the ball, stopping it crossing the line.
The second half picked up where the first left off. Both teams battling hard, creating chances at either end. United’s midfield of Tommy, David Kelly, Gavin Crawford, Naseem and Robbie Lurring, all worked tirelessly and held firm. The second half also saw the return of Alan Patterson to the first team, who came on upfront and made himself a handful for Dundonald’s defence.
The second half showed the effort and team work throughout the squad as they all worked hard together and would not budge.
United created chances of their own in the second half but could not increase their lead. United’s defence and goalkeeper played a vital role in securing all three points with Greg and Chris winning everything that they battled for.
A great effort and result for Ballynahinch United who hope to continue with the run of form.
Clip ‘N’ Climb Player of the Match: Greg Hall
Line up: Stefan Graham [C], Jamie McNeill, Greg Hall, Chris Coleman, Sam Lurring, Thomas Rodgers (Alan Patterson), David Kelly, Gavin Crawford, Naseem Ouldhamlat, Robbie Lurring, Gregg Allison (Luke Craig).
Unused Subs: Patrick Harkin