30 Mar Match Reports – 26/03/22
CYFC U14’s 2-1 Ballymoney
Last Saturday the 2008’s overcame a physically resilient Ballymoney side at MUSA by the odd goal to keep alive a top two finish in the NIBFA National League First Division. After a fine win the previous Saturday at home to Ridgeway Rovers manager Nigel Donnelly was confident but aware of Ballymoney’s threat after a few good recent results. Ballymoney started on the front foot in an expansive 4-2-4 formation with the back four of Russo, Long, Irwin and Price having to be at their best to protect Patterson’s goal. Ballymoney created several chances with Patterson forced into a couple of good saves.
Cookstown gradually got a foothold into the game with captain McKenzie and James Mulgrew pulling the strings in midfield. Kelso and Brendan Mulgrew went close with chances on 15 and 18 minutes.
A great run and cross from James Mulgrew down the right delivered the opening goal when McCrory ghosted in between two defenders to smash home from ten yards. Within 4 minutes Ballymoney equalised after a communication mix up in the Blues defence. Into the second half both teams remained dogged defensively. Ferson came on at left back to try and contain the rapid Ballymoney winger. On 50 minutes James Mulgrew was bundled over in the box in what looked like a stonewall penalty, but the ref waived play on to the total disbelief of players, coaches and supporters.
James Mulgrew then exploded unto the ball from 30 yards out to thunder home an unbelievable serving drive into the top corner. Brendan McElhatton then broke clear of his marker to deliver a pinpoint cross to McElhatton to force home. Again a strange call from the ref for an offside kept the game alive for Ballymoney as the goal was denied.
McElhatton then saw a volley sail over the bar before Talbot freshened tiring legs. Cookstown held on at the end to win another important game with games against Don Boscos and Maiden City remaining.
Everyone at CYFC sends all their best to Jake Donnelly after a bad knee injury at training earlier in the week