United continued their improved form in this league match against a formidable Bryansburn Rangers who are expected to challenge for honours this year.
For most of the first half the game ebbed and flowed with neither team holding the ascendency and neither goal keeper being threatened.
Defensively, United were looking like a more cohesive unit with goalkeeper Steffan Graham in commanding form behind Alan Patterson, Scott Brashaw, Gary Murray and Stuart McMullan.
Things began to change in the closing quarter of the game as United started to dominate with midfielders Roy Shilliday, Gavin Crawford, Johnny Shannon and Alex Burtney creating numerous openings. They forced the visitors defence into making a number of interventions as Roy Shilliday and Alex Burtney created panic on the wings sending in a number of dangerous crosses. They were only able to withstand this on a few occasions and in the 35thminute United struck gold when Gavin Crawford shot home from the six yard box.
United continued to boss the play as the half time whistle approached but they were stunned by an unbelievably ridiculous penalty decision rising from a forward going down as he surged into the penalty area shoulder to shoulder with Scott Brashaw. Bryansburn were as much surprised as United were by its award but gladly accepted the opportunity to get back in to the match with the twice taken spot kick.
The second half was much like the first with both teams having an equal share of the ball with forwards Ian McMullan and Stuart Fitzsimons working tirelessly. Ben Wilson made a welcome return from injury midway through the second half to bolster United’s midfield efforts while Conor Graham entered the game in the closing stages. Fitzsimons went close on a number of occasions from free kicks but United were unable to get the decisive score and sadly paid dearly in the closing stages.
As the game entered the closing stages Bryansburn forced several corners and from one they scored what proved to be the winner leaving a devastated United with no time to recover.
Round up
BUFC 1 – 2 Bryansburn Rangers
| Goalscorer: | Gavin Crawford |
| Competition: | NAFL Div 1B |
| Ground: | The Millbridge, Ballynahinch |
This week United travel to Colin Valley for an encounter with a team that like them has had some poor results to date which will make for an intriguing but important encounter.
Match Report: Ballynagross IIs 4 – 1 Swifts
A depleted Swifts squad were defeated 4 – 1 by Ballynagross 2nds with Jack Forbes getting on the scoresheet. This week they travel to Drumaness Mills 2nds in a Bobby Dalzell Cup match.
Round up
| Goalscorer: | Jack Forbes |
| Competition: | NADAFL Division 1 |
| Ground: | Old Mountain Quarter Saul |