Saturday 9 April 2022
Ballynahinch entertained St Lukes at The Millbridge in the April sun.
United started slowly but soon pulled themselves together before taking the lead.
Matthew Shaw stepped out from deep and found Taylor Graham on the left. The winger squared to Glenn Bennett for an easy tap in to score his first first team goal for the club.
St Likes rallied back and had an excellent chance to equalise when they were awarded a penalty. However, Ballynahinch’s Skipper, Stefan Graham pounced to prevent the spot kick from evening the scores. Unbelievably, his 7th penalty save of the season.
United scored a secondly shortly after. The home side exploited the left side once again, this time Ross Murray twinkled past the opposing full back and fired a ferocious cross into the box.
Glenn grabbed his second when the delicious delivery cannoned off his head into the top corner.
The United defence stayed strong until the end of the half with John McMenamin and Scott Cheevers supporting Matthew Shaw and Scott Brashaw.
After the break, United scrambled home a third. A corner fell in the six yard box at the feet of Jordan Patterson who stabbed it home for his 5th of the season.
United battle on, with Stuart McMullan, Gavin Crawford and Jordan Patterson providing energy and determination in midfield. Unfortunately, Ballynahinch were forced into a reshuffle when Matthew Shaw was dismissed for a second yellow.
That gave St Luke’s hope, and they soon scored when Stefan made a good saves but saw the rebound bounce off Scott Cheevers into the net.
With the game stretched and United down to ten, Stefan was required to keep United ahead with two excellent saves.
At the other end, Jack Patterson and Ross Murray had opportunities to increase the lead but to no avail.
Conor Graham and Harry Bell were introduced to help see out the game.
A great performance with a result to match.
Round up
Ballynahinch United 3 – 1 St Lukes FC
| Goalscorers | Glenn Bennett (2) Jordan Patterson |
| Competition: | NAFL Division 1B |
| Ground: | The Millbridge |