Saturday 27 November
Ballynahinch took to Royal Hillsborough looking to continue their good form against familiar foes, Downshire Young Men.
The visitors started off best and had an early penalty claim turned down, however, shortly after, Alex Burtney burst through defence and got a touch before being upended by the goalkeeper giving the referree no choice but to point to the spot.
Matthew Shaw stepped up and gave Ballynahinch the lead against his former club with a finish as cool as the weather.
The lead didn’t last long however. Downshire’s right winger floated in a cross that was met by an incoming Downshire forward with a powerful header to equalise.
United fought back, with Gregg Alison providing width on the right. His low cross found Shaw again, who was able to slot home for his second.
Ballynahinch furthered their lead again when Alex Burtney was brought down again, this time just outside the box. The free-kick was curled home once again by former Downhshire man, Matthew Shaw, to complete his hat-trick in a frantic first fifteen minutes.
Both teams had opportunites during the rest of the half but it remained 3 -1 at the break.
After the break, United’s defence of Harry Wilson, Scott Brashaw, Matthew Hall and Jordan Patterson stayed solid and were rarely threatened except one occasion when a long-range effort forced a great save from ‘keeper Stefan Graham.
Ballynahinch could have extended their lead with Aaron Cheevers and substitute Taylor Graham coming close but it wasn’t to be.
Ronnie Johnstone and Stuart McMullan’s control of possession gave United a base for a strong, professional second half display in a fiesty game.
This midfield domination proved a source of frustration for the opposition who’s own midfield couldn’t cope and chose to kick out but this went unpunished.
Ian McMullan and Jonny Shannon came off the bench to see out the game and give Dale Davidson’s men another 3 points in a deserved win.
United will now host undefeated Mossley at The Millbridge this weekend. Match sponsor wanted – get in touch.
Player of the Match: Matthew Shaw
Round up
Downshire Young Men 1 – 3 Ballynahinch United
| Goalscorers | Matthew Shaw (3) |
| Player of the Match: | Matthew Shaw |
| Competition: | NAFL Division 1B |
| Ground: | McCarthy Park |