‘Burn Finally Cross Finish Line

Bryansburn somehow completed an horrendous run-in in the Amateur League to complete the season. In the final four weeks the 1^st XI played twelve league games while the 2^nd XI played eleven which combined with a massive injury list tested the Club’s resources to the full. Throw in three Cup Semi-finals and one Cup Final for the 3rds and 4ths and it proved to be quite a finish to the season for Bryansburn FC. For the record those twelve games saw the 1sts win eight draw one and lose three scoring 30 goals in the process and conceding only eleven. In their eleven games the 2nds won six drew one and lost four scoring thirty-six conceding twenty-six. Our congratulations go to all the players involved in the close season programme and in particular the 4^th team squad who lifted the Mervyn Bassett Cup.

The 1^st XI’s final match of the campaign ended with an impressive 4-0 victory over Newington Rangers securing them 6^th place in Division 1C.

Despite missing four regulars, ‘Burn were pleased to welcome back G.McMullan after a bad injury and hopes were high for a chance to overturn an earlier defeat to the Co-Antrim side.

An un-promising start saw ‘Burn unable to get a grip on the game and they repeatedly invited trouble with over-elaborate passing across their own penalty area. Newington spurned three clear chances to score before ‘Burn threatened the visitors’ goal but the home side slowly got into the game with strong running from Tolson providing chances for Mallon and McGreevy. The half hour mark came with Mallon narrowing missing with a diving header from a Coard cross but within a minute Bryansburn again looked rattled as Newington capitalised on a loose pass only to blast over the bar. Nerves were finally settled just before the whistle when Morrison coolly waited for a looping deflection to drop before lashing in a 15 yard volley for welcome 1-0 half-time lead.

‘Burn were a different side after the break. Higginson, Kehoe (replacing A.McMullan), A.Cooling and Thompson broke down every attack and delivered telling balls into midfield where Coard and G.McMullan began to exert total control. Newington had one chance when a free-kick went wide and keeper Beattie twice made comfortable saves but Bryansburn were in command. Mallon’s tireless running was torturing the Newington defence and after forcing a corner he pounced to make it 2-0 from Coard’s delivery while efforts from Tolson and McMullan were only inches wide. Kehoe was equally effective on the right and provided the 76th minute cross for Morrison to head home for 3-0 and with Patterson and Stanex adding to the offensive it was suddenly one-way traffic. A Coard cross found Morrison in the 82^nd and the striker made no mistake in controlling and slotting home to make it 4-0, another hat-trick, and 36 goals from 36 games. G.McMullan, Coard, and Stanex tried their luck in the remaining minutes but a relaxed ‘Burn could not add to their tally.

This was a fitting end to a tough season with the final gruelling twelve matches in twenty-nine days yielding twenty-five points from a possible thirty-six to move the team to a respectable league position. Great to see “new” faces making impressive debuts and strong performances from all the “regulars” (even after the arduous run-in) but it was the “veterans” Mallon, Coard and Morrison who stole the show on the night…

In their penultimate game the 1sts were in action against Champions-elect Portaferry Rovers going down 3-0. Title-chasing Rovers were probably the last side ‘Burn wanted to face in their hectic schedule with the visitors’ anxious to gain revenge for a superb 5-4 win Bryansburn inflicted on them in the first fixture. As it was ‘Burn managed to field a strong side and put up a creditable performance before their bigger, stronger, hungrier opposition finally ran out worthy winners.

Portaferry were quickly into the match concentrating on a long ball game giving defenders Parkes, A.Cooling, Gray and McMullan plenty of work and effectively by-passing the ‘Burn midfield. Two early breaks saw a saved Stanex shot and Morrison 20 yard effort just over the bar but at the other end Close’s goal led a charmed life for the first half hour.  ‘Burn weathered the storm well and Morrison, from a Coard through ball, and McGreevy with a turn & shot just wide almost surprised Rovers but the final fifteen minutes of the half saw the visitors force two good saves, hit the woodwork and have a goal disallowed to leave a fragile 0-0 half-time score.

Predictably, trophy-hungry Rovers went up a gear in the second half and Tolson, McGreevy (replaced by Higginson), Coard and C.Cooling were pushed back to help defend the aerial barrage. A.Cooling was outstanding at centre-half, saving ‘Burn on endless occasions, but Portaferry still managed to make the breakthrough on the hour with a simple passing move and crisp shot making it 1-0. Two minutes later Rovers hit the bar, Close pulled off a point-blank save and ‘Burn were in general struggling to find the energy to respond. A 73^rd minute deep cross and goalmouth scramble made it two and three minutes later a misdirected throw out gifted the visitors their 3^rd. Morrison & Stanex, (replaced by Patterson), worked hard to force a consolation goal but in the end Bryansburn were forced to re-group in an “Alamo” formation to survive the final onslaught. Result: 3-0 to Portaferry.     

Best for ‘Burn: A.Cooling: superb in defence, Stanex: his best performance yet before tiring in the 2^nd half: gritty efforts from the full squad.

The 2^nd XI completed their season with three games in the final five days. Last Tuesday Suffolk FC ll were the visitors’ to Ballywooley and in a feisty game Morrison scored all four goals as an injury time strike saw Bryansburn record a 4-2 victory. Then on Thursday Champions Greencastle ll had a comfortably 5-2 victory at Ballywooley against a depleted Bryansburn side. On target for Bryansburn were Stevenson and Hanna. Finally on Saturday morning another understrength side travelled to Colinvalley ll yet managed to return with all three points and a superb 5-2 victory. Morrison completed yet another hat-trick to take his total to 45 for the season and he was ably supported by Armstrong who struck twice.

On Saturday the 3^rd XI completed their season with a competitive 1-1 draw against Bangor Rangers lll at Upritchard Park. The home side enjoyed the majority of the possession and territorial advantage throughout but it was Bryansburn who created most of the clear-cut chances. ‘Burn took the lead late in the first half with a free-kick from top scorer Cardwell with Bangor Rangers equalising with a cross-cum-shot that found the top corner fifteen minutes from time. Bryansburn should have taken all three points with two golden chances in the closing minutes but over the ninety minutes a draw was a fair result.

In midweek the 3rds were beaten 5-3 by Comber Rec lll at Ballywooley when Shields, Cardwell and Dempster were on target for ‘Burn. “Man of the Match” was keeper Steventon who produced a magnificent performance to stop Bryansburn suffering an even heavier defeat against a strong Comber side.

Hopes of all the Bryansburn veterans reaching one last Cup Final were dashed when the 3^rd XI lost 2-1 to 43^rd OB in the Semi-final of the Frank Moore Memorial Cup. ‘Burn led 1-0 through a well crafted goal from Scott only for 43^rd to equalise from a dubious penalty on the stroke of half-time. ‘Burn conceded from a corner on the hour mark but from then on it was all Bryansburn, playing all the football and creating enough chances to book their place in the Final. McGimpsey missed two one-on-ones, put another over the bar from six yards and Cardwell blasted a last minute penalty over the bar after McGimpsey had been fouled but ‘Burn failed to find the solitary strike that would at least have forced extra time.   

Three thrilling matches in a week – two Semi-finals and a Final - brought the curtain down on a highly successful season for the 4^th XI which also saw them finish runners-up in the League.

On a wonderful, late spring evening at Billy Neill PF the 4ths faced Greenwell Star ll for a place in the final of the Mervyn Bassett Cup. Buoyed by a sizable support, 'Burn opened brightly before, with Greenwell's first attack, a rare mistake by keeper Black saw the red and white forward scramble the ball over for an unexpected early lead. Within three minutes of the restart, the stunned defensive Bryansburn line shipped another to find themselves two down following a great finish. Despite the early double setback Bryansburn showed great resolve and for twenty minutes played exquisite football, creating a number of chances. As halftime loomed, Stevenson was at hand to open the Bryansburn account with a well taken low shot into the corner of the net, giving the opposition keeper no chance.

The second period started in a similar fashion with 'Burn pressing hard for the equaliser. A number of chances came and went, and then totally against the run of play, a rare Greenwell foray saw them go 3-1 up. Despite the score-line, Bryansburn were very much still in the game. With twenty minutes left, Stevenson doubled his and the 'Burn's tally with a sublime shot from a right wing cross originating from young Kennedy. Further chances went begging and with eight minutes left on the clock, it looked to be "one of those nights". Encouragement from the sidelines coupled with some determined and strong managerial advice saw a remarkable finish to the game.

With two minutes left, Stevenson completed his hat-trick to make it 3-3 and virtually straight from the restart, Bryansburn, with their tails up, got their deserved winner. A midfield ball saw both Lowry and Stone attacking the pass; Stone took control and skipped past the last defender before shooting low and hard into the corner, to cap a wonderful display from the entire squad.

Awaiting the 4^th XI in the Final of the Mervyn Bassett Cup were League Champions Moat Park Rangers ll and a thrilling tie saw ‘Burn lift the Cup after a hard fought 2-1 win.

Despite an early downpour the playing surface at Comber Rec's ground Parkway was in perfect condition to host the final of the Mervyn Bassett Cup. Having seen off Moat Park twice in the league this season Bryansburn entered this game with enthusiasm, hope and determination. A sizable crowd saw a great game played by two strong and entertaining teams. 'Burn custodian Black was called into action early with two fine saves. The defence marshalled by Pollard were coping well with the pace of the Moat forwards. From midfield Bryansburn created a number of opportunities with the hardworking Lowry causing problems with his tireless running up top. Stone went close but saw his shot go narrowly wide midway through the first half. A series of Bryansburn corners, while threatening, were cleared. With ten minutes of the half left, a cross from Emberson landed in the six yard box invitingly and from the ensuing scramble, Lowry was at hand to poke home. A further Lowry chance was well saved by the keeper just before the whistle. 

The second half continued in a similar vein with both sides creating chances, a Stone shot skimmed the post which could have put the game to bed if it had gone a couple of inches the other way, but Moat Park showed why they are League champions and continued to press for the equaliser. This duly arrived with an unstoppable shot from the Rangers midfielder Gadget. In the 70^th minute, somewhat against the run of play, Bryansburn took the lead with what turned out to be the winner. A corner from the right was powerfully headed home by Stevenson. Moat Park went three at the back in search of an equaliser and spent the remainder of the match camped in the Bryansburn half but some sterling defensive work kept them at bay. The clock finally reached the ninety mark and the eight minutes of injury time seemed an eternity for those on and off the pitch in 'Burn colours. All eyes were on the ref, waiting for his whistle and with seconds remaining, a loose ball fell to the Moat Park Rangers centre forward, who with the goal at his mercy, was tackled by two defenders to minimise his shot which to Rangers despair saw ‘Burn keeper Black collect the ball in both hands.

The game ended moments later amid scenes of wild celebration which went on long into the night. A fantastic result for the team and the club, and the silverware will be presented at our awards night. The winning squad was Black, Canning, Pollard, Ferris, Kennedy, Bogle, Emberson, Dickinson, Stone, Stevenson, Lowry, Parkinson, Gardner, and McNeill. The management team would like to thank the following for their continued support throughout the past season: McConnell Kelly Solicitors, Main Street Bangor, Ballyrobert Vauxhall, Baillie’s Menswear, High Street Bangor and to Ski and Sports, Dargan Crescent Duncrue for their match ball sponsorship for the Final.

Unfortunately two days later Moat Park Rangers ll gained some revenge by beating the 4ths 3-2 in the Semi-final of the Tommy Murphy. ‘Burn had looked on course for a second Cup Final when they led 2-1 with nine minutes left but the exertions from the Final finally took their toll as Moat scored twice in the closing stages for victory. The game had been tied at 1-1 with Stone on target for Bryansburn with twelve minutes remaining. Then a blocking tackle from Johnny Ferris resulted in excellent midfield play which saw Stone collect the ball and, having beaten two players, fired home a delightful shot into the corner. That looked like being the winner until the late Moat show prematurely ended the 4ths season.

There are still a couple of places available on the Annual Club Trip consisting of return flights to Newcastle and three nights in a Travelodge Hotel leaving on Friday 30^th May returning Monday 2^nd June. Please contact Alan Dempster if you wish to join the travelling party.   

This Saturday there will be a friendly match at Ballywooley between a Bryansburn XI and the 4^th XI, kick-off 1pm. Afterwards there will be a barbeque for all with a good crowd expected for the FA Cup Final and traditional Penalty Kick Competition.

The Annual Dinner & Awards Night is at the Stables on Friday 23^rd May. Tickets (£17.50) are available from Johnny Ferris and Alan Dempster.

The Annual General Meeting of Bryansburn FC will take place in the Clubhouse at 1pm on Saturday 24^th May. All Full Members are expected to attend.

League 1C: Bryansburn Rangers 4 Newington 0

1sts final match of the campaign ended with an impressive 4-0 victory over Newington securing them 6^th place in league 1C.

Despite missing 4 regulars ‘Burn were pleased to welcome back G. McMullan after a bad injury and hopes were high for a chance to overturn an earlier defeat to the Co-Antrim side.

 An un-promising start saw ‘Burn unable to get a grip on the game and they repeatedly invited trouble with over-elaborate passing across their own penalty area. Newington spurned three clear chances to score before ‘Burn threatened the visitor’s goal but the home side slowly got into the game with strong running from Tolson providing chances for Mallon and McGreevy. The half hour mark came with Mallon narrowing missing with a diving header from a Coard cross but within a minute Bryansburn again looked rattled as Newington capitalised on a loose pass only to blast over the bar. Nerves were finally settled just before the whistle when Morrison coolly waited for a looping deflection to drop before lashing in a 15yd volley in for welcome 1-0 half-time lead.

‘Burn were a different side after the break. Higginson, Kehoe (replacing A. McMullan), A. Cooling and Thompson broke down every attack and delivered telling balls into midfield where Coard and G. McMullan began to exert total control. Newington had one chance when a free-kick went wide and keeper Beattie twice made comfortable saves but Bryansburn were in command. Mallon’s tireless running was torturing the Newington defence and after forcing a corner he pounced to make it 2-0 from Coard’s delivery while efforts from Tolson and McMullan were only inches wide. Kehoe was equally effective on the right and provided the 76th minute cross for Morrison to head home for 3-0 and with Patterson and Stannex adding to the offensive it was suddenly one-way traffic. A Coard cross found Morrison in the 82^nd and the striker made no mistake in controlling and slotting home to make it 4-0, another hat-trick, and 36 goals from 36 games. G. McMullan, Coard, and Stannex tried their luck in the remaining minutes but a relaxed ‘Burn couldn’t add to their tally.

            This was a fitting end to a tough season with the final gruelling 12 matches in 29 days yielding 24 points from a possible 36 to move the team to a respectable league position. Great to see “new” faces making impressive debuts and strong performances from all the “regulars” (even after the arduous run-in) but it was the “veterans” Mallon, Coard and Morrison who stole the show on the night…

League 1C: Bryansburn Rangers 0 Portaferry 3

Saturday 3^rd 1sts were in action again going down 0-3 to Portaferry. Title-chasing Rovers were probably the last side ‘Burn wanted to face in their 11^th match in 25 days but they managed to field a strong side and put up a creditable performance before their bigger, stronger, hungrier opposition finally ran out worthy winners.

            Portaferry were quickly into the match concentrating on a long ball game giving defenders Parkes, A. Cooling Gray and McMullan plenty of work and effectively by-passing the ‘Burn midfield. Two early breaks saw a saved Stannex shot and Morrison 20yd effort just over the bar but at the other end Close’s goal led a charmed life for the first half hour.  ‘Burn weathered the storm well and Morrison, from a Coard through ball, and McGreevy with a turn & shot just wide almost surprised Rovers but the final 15 minutes saw the visitors force two good saves, hit the woodwork and have a goal disallowed to leave a fragile 0-0 half-time score.

            Predictably, trophy-hungry Rovers went up a gear in the second half and Tolson, McGreevy (replaced by Higginson), Coard and C. Cooling were pushed back to help defend the aerial barrage. A. Cooling was outstanding at centre-half, saving ‘Burn on endless occasions, but Portaferry still managed to make the breakthrough on the hour with a simple passing move and crisp shot making it 0-1. Two minutes later Rover’s hit the bar, Close pulled off a point-blank save and Burn were struggling to find the energy to respond. A 73^rd minute deep cross and goalmouth scramble made it 0-2 and 3 minutes later a misdirected throw out gifted the visitors their 3^rd. Morrison & Stannex, (replaced by Patterson), worked hard to force a consolation goal but in the end Bryansburn were forced to re-group in an “Alamo” formation to survive the final onslaught. Result: 3-0 to Portaferry.      

            Best for ‘Burn: A. Cooling: superb in defence, Stannex: his best performance yet before tiring in the 2^nd half: gritty efforts from the full squad.

League 1C: Bryansburn Rangers 6 Kilroot 0

May Day saw the 1^sts back at Ballywooley and scoring 6 while making short work of league strugglers Kilroot. Once again ‘Burn were forced to dig deep into their talent pool to field a team but, despite a spirited performance from the visitors, there was never any doubt in the final outcome.

Shots from McGreevy, Tolson, Coard and Thompson all missed the target in a one-sided but hesitant opening period. Debut keeper Beattie showed a good pair of hands and great confidence on the rare occasions when Kilroot managed to escape the efforts of Higginson Gray and Mellon while fellow rookie Patterson got another run out on the wing. Kilroot’s only chance, a quick free kick taken while ‘Burn protested, came closest to breaking the deadlock but minutes later a tame Stannex shot somehow bounced through the visitors defence and crept in for a 25^th minute 1-0 lead. It took only 5 minutes for ‘Burn to double their lead when Morrison ran from deep to slot home and a further 10 for a 25 yard Thompson shot to make it a comfortable 3-0 at half time.

  Collins replaced Mellon and the assault on the Kilroot goal continued. Another direct Morrison run split the defence and set up Stannex to side-foot in his second for 4-0 but 3 direct efforts within 5 minutes from ‘Burn’s No 9 saw a save, a goal-line clearance and the post prevent further success. Coard and Thompson both tried their luck from long range but it wasn’t until the 78^th minute that substitute Hanna made it 5-0. Kilroot showed remarkable resilience in fighting to the bitter end but a penalty from Stannex completed his hat-trick and another 6-0 defeat for the weary visitors.

A solid team performance and a “job well done”, putting Bryansburn into 5^th position in the league 1c.

League 1C: Bryansburn Rangers 2 Groomsport 1

Tuesday 29^th saw 1^sts almost back on home ground collecting a 2-1 win over neighbours Groomsport. The end-of-season build-up continued to limit squad selection possibilities but again a makeshift Bryansburn proved more than a match for the home side even when reduced to ten men for the final 25 minutes.

‘Burn looked dangerous from the start with Patterson, on his full debut, making an early impact on the left. Chances fell to Coard and Stannex before Morrison jinked between two defenders to slot home the opener after only 8 minutes but Groomsport settled and went close with a couple of long range efforts mid-way through the half. Parkes, Thompson and A. McMullan, ably marshalled by manager Mellon, denied Groomsport any possession in the final third and ‘Burn again began to make headway with a more direct central assault. Good balls from Coard and C. Cooling gave Stannex and Morrison two chances to test the keeper but with another header and two free kicks going high or wide for ‘Burn and a single 30 yard effort from Groomsport shepherded over the bar by Close the half ended at 1-0.  

A saved Stannex volley and Coard shot over the bar saw ‘Burn again in control in a lively opening ten minute spell but Groomsport’s 54^th minute set piece opened-up the game when they capitalised on a fluffed clearance and defensive hesitation to bring the scores level at 1-1. Bryansburn clearly heard the wake-up call and with Parkes and McGreevy playing a greater part in the game Groomsport were again on the defensive. A powerful run and though pass from Parkes released Morrison and when the striker hit the bye-line and fired in a cross Stannex was on hand to head home his 5^th of the campaign to restore the lead with an hour played. For a couple of minutes it was all ‘Burn as they chased what seemed to be an inevitable 3^rd goal but disaster struck when McMullan’s exemplary 2013/14 discipline record evaporated in a spat with the home bench: two reds were shown but it was ‘Burn who were left with ten men on the field with 25 minutes still to play. Gray replaced Mellon, Crawley later replaced Parkes and the manager resumed control from the bench re-shuffling the formation repeatedly to stifle a growing Groomsport threat. Close pulled off a match-saving one-on-one stop; the home-side had a handful of shots whistle past the Bryansburn woodwork but in the end a pile-driving shot from Coard which smashed off the post was the closest either side came to troubling the score-keeper. Full time 2-1 to Burn, and a 6^th place league position to defend in their remaining 3 matches.  

Best for ‘Burn: Coard, again the key playmaker and Morrison with 1 goal/1 assist with the full squad showing a spirited performance despite playing their 9^th match in 21 days.

League 1C: Donard Hospital 1 Bryansburn 2

1sts completed their season’s double over Donard Hospital with a hard-fought 2-1 victory at Billy Neill Playing fields. In typical ‘Burn style they shook off their indifferent performance against 13^th-placed opposition mid-week, failed to build a strong lead when playing with the wind but went on to out-play 5^th-placed opposition to finally climb above the midway mark in 1C.

            A late start saw Bryansburn very much in command. A series of knock-downs from Morrison failed to find the necessary support but a blistering Mallon run tested the Donard keeper, Morrison’s 35 yard effort flew high over the bar and in the 10^th minute, an A. McMullan cross/shot bounced off the woodwork with no reply from the home side. Both teams were clearly struggling with the blustery conditions but Donard started to play some good football and went close with a long-range effort forcing Close to a great save in the 13^th minute. Two C. Cooling free kicks were collected by the keeper, Coard set up Tolson on the flank but Mallon saw his header clear the bar, and vintage ‘Burn faffing about on the edge of their area twice offered Donard chances to score either side of the half-hour mark. The wind was clearly hindering Donard in their attempts to push forward but equally making it difficult for Bryansburn to control through-balls or shots on goal. Finally good football at ground level prevailed as Coard fed Tolson from midfield and the wingers powerful run into the box was only stopped by a desperate lunge from the defender for a clear penalty. Morrison made it 1-0 from the spot on 31 minutes and was unlucky when first a header from a Parkes throw-in was tipped to safety by the keeper and in the 43^rd minute, when he beat the defence and keeper only to find the post. Half-time 1-0 to Burn.  

            Donard, predictably, launched a wind-assisted assault from the restart but A. Cooling and R. Thompson dealt comfortably with the aerial assault while Parkes and A. McMullan halted any incursions from the wings. Donard hit the side netting, shot wide twice and nearly capitalised when a great stop from Close fell to the feet of their striker but could not find the net. Mallon and Coard were still able to marshal the midfield and, again it was the impressive Tolson who, picking up a Thompson through ball terrorised the home defence before setting up Morrison for his second and a 2-0 lead with 56 minutes played.  ‘Burn could even have extended their lead when, ten minutes later a precision C. Cooling free-kick found Morrison whose side-footed effort was swept just over the goal but Donard were continuing to threaten with a string of wide efforts and corners. Higginson and Gray replaced Mallon and Cooling and ‘Burn continued to weather the storm until a sweeping, cross-field passing move from Donard saw them back in the match at 2-1 with 20 minutes to play. The final exchanges were, understandably, one-sided as Donard pushed hard but heroic defending from Gray, Parkes, Thompson and McMullan and wayward finishing saw Bryansburn inch towards the finish line. McGreevy made a welcome return from injury and almost immediately set-up Higginson on a rare break but there was a huge sigh of relief when the final whistle blew to confirm a deserved 2-1 victory.

            Best for Burn: Tolson with two assists and a constant threat, Coard running the show from midfield, and Morrison notching up his 30^th & 31^st goals in 32 games. 

League 1C: Newington Rangers 3 Bryansburn 1

1sts lost 3-1 to a strong Newington Rangers side in their 3^rd visit to Co-Antrim in 6 days. ‘Burn had plenty of opportunities but on a lumpy, overgrown pitch it was the home side that were the more clinical in their finishing.

            Newington started brightly with a couple of dangerous attacks, a corner and a free kick within the first ten minutes but the ‘Burn back four of Parkes, Gray, A. Cooling and A. McMullan gave great cover to goalkeeper Beattie in his debut outing with the firsts. With the opposition pressing hard and chasing a string of long balls space up-field and chances began to fall to Bryansburn. Morrison benefited when a bad bounce evaded the full back and the keeper but his lob from distance cleared the bar, a Coard shot followed the same route minutes later and he was equally unlucky when heading a Mallon cross inches wide of the post. Three chances in 7 minutes counted for nothing however when a simple Newington cross beat the defence and their forward hit home for 1-0 with 25 minutes played. Undeterred ‘Burn continued to apply pressure with a Tolson break and shot foiled only by another random bounce as he pulled the trigger, a powerful Mallon shot the wrong side of the woodwork and two near misses from Morrison. Balls from R. McMullan and C. Cooling continued to open up opportunities but again Coard, Morrison and Gray couldn’t get the right contact to open the scoring. Rookie ‘keeper Beattie pulled off a great save as Newington rallied but seconds before the break Newington struck with a classy turn and shot into the bottom corner to make it 2-0 at halftime.

            Three minutes into the second half ‘Burn were caught cold and it was 3-0 as a Newington free-kick looped across the defence to curl in at the back post. Again ‘Burn shook off some obviously tired legs to respond and Mallon was unlucky to see a blistering shot clear the cross-bar after 49 minutes while Tolson and Morrison continued to stretch the home defence but couldn’t find a telling shooting opportunity. Stannex replaced C. Cooling and J. McMullan (for Gray) made a welcome return after a long absence and Bryansburn finally got some reward for their efforts. Coard’s free kick was fired goal-wards by a Parkes header and the full-back was quick to respond to the rebound and head in for 1-3 on the hour mark.  Once again Beattie pulled off a vital save to keep ‘Burn in the game but a header from Mallon and two efforts from Stannex failed to close the two-goal gap. Manager Mellon replaced Mallon for the final ten minutes and, while ‘Burn looked the more likely to score, Newington twice came close to extending their lead. Final score 3-1.

Good showing from Bryansburn but, in the end, sheer fatigue and bad luck probably played a big role in the result. Congratulations to Newington on a performance totally out-of-keeping with their current lowly league position.

League 1C: Bryansburn Rangers 5 Kilroot Rec. 0

1sts “Tour of Antrim” continued with a comfortable 5-0 midweek victory over struggling Kilroot Recreation. 3-0 up after 35 minutes Bryansburn chose to resort to possession football in their own half for the next 40 before closing out the game with two late goals.

            First half saw Morrison open the scoring after 13 minutes with a back-header from a McMullan long-throw and 15 minutes later turning provider with a low cross to Higginson for 2-0. Kilroot forced an acrobatic diving save from Close but despite some tempting misplaced ‘Burn defensive passes they rarely troubled the Bryansburn goal. On a very tight pitch flowing football was in short supply with any heavy touch taking the ball out of play and it wasn’t until the 34^th minute that ‘Burn threatened again with a wide shot from C. Cooling and, moments later, a Morrison lob bouncing off the crossbar. The 3^rd goal finally came when a powerful run from Ballantyne found Morrison who passed to Coard to strike home and take his season’s tally to 9. ‘Burn might have added to their haul in the final minutes of the half with another Morrison header and Coard shot saved but the break came at 3-0 to the visitors.  

            Stannex replaced Coard at the restart but powerful runs from both Higginson and Parkes regularly resulted in a retreat, rather than an effort on goal, as the ball was fed back to the defence and even to the ‘keeper.  A. Cooling, Thompson (replaced later by Mellon), and A. McMullan exchanged passes with R. McMullan and C. Cooling in midfield but only high & wide shots from C. Cooling and Morrison and a failed one-on-one with the keeper from Stannex offered any positive action as the light faded. A brief moment of magic from substitute Patterson, evading 3 tackles before slotting clinically into the bottom corner, shone through the gloom and Morrison took the final score to 5-0 with a repeat of his first header before everyone was released from the ordeal.

            Kilroot deserve considerable praise for sticking to the task against all odds in the last matches of a terrible season and Bryansburn cannot be faulted in collectively doing exactly what was needed to secure a clean sheet and 3 points.

League 1C: Mossley F. C. 1 Bryansburn Rangers 1

1sts drew 1-1 with Mossley F.C. in an uninspiring encounter at the Recreation Grounds. Early success and open end to end play promised a goal-fest but, despite having more chances, Bryansburn couldn’t turn their dominance into 3 points.

            The first 12 minutes were all ‘Burn: Tolson and Ballantyne were running the home side ragged down the wings and a steady supply of balls from Coard and C. Cooling were pinning the home side in their own half. A vicious Parkes 12 yard shot which the Mossley keeper could only parry allowed Stannex to slot home for 1-0 after ten minutes and was followed by a Ballantyne run and chip which was bundled onto the post for a corner but thereafter the tide turned. A Mossley chip beat Close only to be scrambled off the Bryansburn line by Parkes and then, with 20 minutes gone, Ballantyne was unlucky to deflect a low cross into his own goal for 1-1. Things could have been worse but for another Close save in the 25^th and some last-ditch defensive work from Gray and A. Cooling but eventually ‘Burn resumed the offensive led by some energetic runs from A. McMullan and Parkes. C. Cooling saw two free-kicks collected by the ‘keeper and the goalie made a brilliant diving save from a Morrison header before shepherding another effort from the striker over the bar but the half-time whistle saw no change to the1-1 score.

            Close was called into action immediately on the re-start clearing a suicidal back-pass with inches to spare and ‘Burn found some success with both Cooling and Morrison seeing their shots saved in the 46^th minute and the striker denied again by the keeper in the 47^th. The game settled down to a long-ball affair with the Mossley centre-half happy to clear everything thrown at him and their keeper pleased to catch 3 high free-kicks and a handful of over-hit passes while ‘Burn’s progress on the flanks usually faltered without a telling pass or cross. R. McMullan made another cameo appearance, replacing Stannex, and Higginson replaced Ballantyne but while Bryansburn had more of the play they had a single Coard effort, a near-miss from Morrison and a header from a corner to show for their efforts.  Mossley replied with a miscue from a free header and a couple of wide shots but neither side could make the breakthrough.

`           Best for ‘Burn: Tolson stuck to his task despite a string of brutal challenges, Coard with another energetic midfield performance but overall a typical season end showing from a squad clearly feeling the effects of 6 games in 15 days.

League 1C: Bryansburn Rangers 1 Bangor Swifts 2

1^sts brief winning streak ended in 1-2 defeat at the hands of local rivals Bangor Swifts. ‘Burn put up a brave fight, and may have even snatched an undeserved winner when denied a late penalty, but there were clear signs that the glut of midweek matches were beginning to have an adverse effect of the full squad.

Two minutes into the game Tolson was unlucky not to snatch an opener when his header from a Ballantyne cross was safely collected by the Swift’s keeper but within a few minutes ‘Burn’s goalie Close had to dive low to touch a goal-bound effort around the post. Coard and Tolson worked a great move through the centre of the park only for the former’s shot to force another save and Bryansburn again looked threatening when Thompson passed to C. Cooling who shot just wide of the far post after 20 minutes. The Swifts were slowly finding their feet with a number of breaks down the left and were denied first by a Close save and then by a goal-line Morrison block before a sweet 15 yard effort saw them grab a 1-0 lead after 25 minutes. Clearly rattled, Bryansburn’s McMullan, Gray and A. Cooling were forced to dig deep to stem a number of attacks and it wasn’t until the 38^th minute that the midfield managed to combine to give Thompson a one-on-one with the visiting keeper which saw his lob drift inches wide of an equaliser. Swift’s responded almost immediately with a free header from a cross somehow missing the target before a classic Bryansburn kamikaze defensive move allowed their No.10 to double the lead with 41 minutes gone.  ‘Burn looked down and out but great running from Tolson and continuing pressure from Stannex and Ballantyne eventually won a 20 yard free kick which Coard calmly curled into the roof of the net for a hopeful 1-2 halftime score-line.

The second half saw Bryansburn apply most of the pressure with an early Thompson break almost beating the keeper and McMullan and A. Cooling providing great supply down the flanks. A Tolson cross narrowly missed Thompson at the back post, Stannex miscued when through on goal but Close was once again called into action to clear a suicidal back-pass and prevent Swifts restoring their two goal lead. ‘Burn brought on Higginson Hanna and Parks to replace tiring legs and re-shuffled to go all-out for an equaliser but Bangor Swifts were finishing the stronger side and saw three or four chances go begging. With only minutes left on the clock Stannex broke through to be floored when rounding the keeper but with no whistle from the referee the game was over and the home side’s last chance had gone.

5 games in 13 days is a tough hurdle but ‘Burn can take heart in a dogged performance against a strong side. Great performances from A. Cooling and A. McMullan with “never-say-die” support from the full squad.

League 1C: Bryansburn Rangers 2 Groomsport 0

Tuesday 16^th saw 1^sts run out 2-0 winners over local rivals Groomsport to continue their impressive run with 4 wins from 4 and a 3^rd consecutive clean sheet. Absences through injury and unavailability meant that manager Mellon had to once again shuffle the squad & line-up but ‘Burn always looked  slight favourites in the tightly-fought encounter at a windy & cold Ballywooley.

A solid defence denied Groomsport any real chances in the first half with Coard in midfield and Tolson up front torturing the visitor’s defence before the two combined to find Mallon who slotted home after 16 minutes to make it 1-0. Morrison went close with a free-kick and a 35 yard effort but bad-luck struck when goal-scorer Mallon limped off to be replaced by Higginson. Close pulled off a finger-tip save to thwart Groomsport just after the half hour mark and with both sides struggling to work with the swirling wind there were few chances until a 44^th minute free-kick floated just over the Bryansburn bar with keeper & defence watching with fingers crossed. Half-time 1-0.  

Groomsport re-doubled their efforts at the re-start and Ballantyne, Coard and C. Cooling had a real battle in midfield with A. Cooling, Gray, Morrison and McMullan manning the pumps at the rear. With the opposition pressing hard breakaways fell to Stannex, whose shot just rose over the bar and Higginson, adjudged off-side after his break and found the woodwork. Close was again called into action punting a panicked back-pass out of the car-park and for a while nerves jangled as the visitors looked the more likely to score. Parks replaced the injured Morrison, a Groomsport header just missed the post and Bryansburn couldn’t find the right weight of ball to feed their strikers in a deserted Groomsport half. Bryansburn finally hauled themselves to safety with a fine run from Tolson to the bye-line and a cross which C. Cooling lashed home for a final 2-0 final score.

Best for ‘Burn: Coard, always influential in midfield with notable performances from Tolson, both Coolings and Gray.

League 1C: Dromore Amateurs 0 Bryansburn Rangers 4

1^sts late run of form continued with a 4-0 away victory over Dromore Amateurs making it 3 wins and two clean sheets in a row for the first time this season.

‘Burn were slow to start, as always, with Dromore’s long ball game giving defenders A. Cooling, Gray, Morrison and McMullan plenty to do while the midfield looked on. A single well-worked break down the right involving Ballantyne and Coard led to C. Cooling shooting high after 13 minutes but the home side had the better of the first half hour. 16 minutes saw a cross drift dangerously close to the Bryansburn crossbar, a 21^st minute break forced keeper Close into a fine one-on-one block with Morrison making a goal-line clearance from the striker’s second attempt and with Dromore very much in control ‘Burn were on the back foot. Welcome relief came after 31 minutes when Coard broke down the right and crossed for Thompson to step over and Tolson to slot home for his 5^th of the season and a 1-0 lead against the run of play.  The half petered out with Dromore continuing to press, with no product, and ‘Burn’s wingers unable to provide a good service on the break to strikers Stannex and Coard. Half-time 1-0.

Bryansburn were quickly out of the blocks in the second half catching Dromore cold. An early free for C. Cooling tested the keeper but his second found Morrison who clipped in at the near post for 2-0 with 47 played. Worse was to come for Dromore when, 4 minutes later, a Ballantyne cross hit a defenders hand and the referee pointed to the spot for a hotly-contested penalty. After a short stoppage to discuss the issue and present appropriate yellow and red cards to the delegates, the game resumed with Morrison converting from the spot for 3-0 with 40 minutes to play. With the home side rattled ‘Burn continued to press and first Coard, denied by the keeper’s finger-tip when one-on-one with the keeper, and Stannex, finding both the net and the off-side flag after a neat interchange between Morrison, Coard and Tolson, could have taken them clear. R. McMullan made a welcome return, replacing Coard on the hour mark, Scott came on for Stannex and again ‘Burn were unlucky when Thompson fed Stannex only for the keeper to make another good save. Jones came on to give the impressive Gray a rest and in the 80^th minute Morrison completed the scoring, his hat-trick and 27^th of the season when heading home from a corner and a 4-0 lead. Completing the afternoon’s success Close made a brilliant save from a final Dromore effort to keep a clean sheet for Bryansburn for only the fourth time this campaign.

Best for ‘Burn: Morrison with impressive contributions from Gray, A. Cooling and, briefly, much missed midfielder R. McMullan.

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Irish FA Safeguarding in Sport app

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Irish FA Safeguarding in Sport app The Irish FA has launched the first ever safeguarding in sport app. The app gives club Child Welfare Officers, Coaches, Parents and Young Players access to key safeguarding guidance in written, visual and audio formats. Download free from the App Store and help to make football a safe, fun and positive experience for all children and young people. https://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/ifa-safeguarding-children/id843343389?mt=8 Available soon on Play Store for android phones. For further information contact jdelargy@irishfa.com or jgrattan@irishfa.com

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Semi Final action for Bryansburn

On Thursday 24th April Bryansburn Rangers IV play Greenwell Star II at Billy Neill Playing Fields in the Mervyn Bassett Cup Semi Final.  Kick off is 6.30pm.

On Wednesday 30th April Bryansburn Rangers III play 43rd OB at Billy Neill Playing Fields in the Frank Moore Memorial Cup Semi Final.  Kick off is 6.30pm.

Come along and support Bryansburn in these games.

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‘Burn Let Three Points Slip

On Saturday Bryansburn 1^st XI lost 3-2 away to Ballynahinch Olympic in a virtual re-run of their early-season meeting at Ballywooley when ‘Burn led 2-0 only to concede three second half goals. This time goals either side of the interval put Bryansburn in a commanding position only for Olympics’ strong final ten minutes to snatch all three points for the title-chasing home side.

With Ballynahinch slow to show Bryansburn had the better opportunities in the first half. A 3^rd minute Olympic back pass and penalty-area free-kick saw Coard slip the ball to Tolson in space at the back post but the winger was inches away from converting and, five minutes later, a Morrison knock-down found Coard in a similar position with a similar result. ‘Burn were making good progress with Parkes down the right while Coard, C.Cooling and G.McMullan had a tight grip on the midfield but Ballynahinch’s long-ball game posed a growing threat. Full-backs A.McMullan and A.Cooling dealt well with the aerial barrage with Gray and Thompson putting in vital tackles in the box but the dam broke in the 17^th minute when a low near-post cross was converted for a 1-0 lead for Ballynahinch against the run of play.

Bryansburn resumed their attacking efforts and were unlucky when Morrison released C.Cooling to side foot over the bar and then twice went close himself beating the keeper only to hit the post and side netting from acute angles on 32 and 35 minutes. Bryansburn were increasingly on the back foot and relying on breakaways but seconds before the whistle Olympic could only half-clear a corner and Morrison tried his luck from twenty yards, finding the bottom corner for a 1-1 score-line.

The second half started with ‘Burn on the offensive, forcing two early corners and grabbing a deserved 2-1 lead in the 48^th minute when G.McMullan’s shot was helped over the line by R.Thompson. Ballynahinch countered with a shot just over the bar and both Parkes and Coard went close from distance but ‘Burn keeper Close was twice called into action to smother a growing Olympic backlash. Ten minutes into the second half Morrison rose to head a free-kick inches over but for the next fifteen ‘Burn were struggling to clear their lines and defending ever-deeper.

As McGreevy and Mallon replaced Parkes and Tolson it was Close who kept ‘Burn in the match with a couple of good saves, helped by some wayward Ballynahinch finishing. On the occasional break Coard went close with a shot and Morrison found a clear run at goal only to be judged offside by the distant referee. Anxious glances at the watch showed that ‘Burn were only five minutes from three points but an unchallenged header from an Olympic corner kick saw the target quickly change to a 2-2 draw with increasingly desperate defending. Things weren’t helped by the loss of Gray with concussion, (replaced by Kehoe), and some harsh refereeing decisions including a couple of hotly disputed free-kicks around the visitors box and an unexplained booking. Nonetheless ‘Burn weathered the storm until finally three panicked passes towards their own goal allowed Ballynahinch to force a throw-in leading to their 89^th minute winner.

No disgrace in losing by the odd goal to potential league champions but disappointing to, once again, see a winning position lost in the final minutes.

The 2^nd XI had what can only be described as a routine 5-0 win over visiting Kilroot Rec ll with Stanex taking the plaudits with a clinical hat-trick.

‘Burn made a fast start and the ball was played through the middle from Tyson for Stanex to latch onto and finish with ease after only three minutes. Kilroot struggled to get out of their own half as the home side dominated before doubling the lead in the 7^th minute. Higginson combined down the right with Ballantine who cut the ball back for Stanex to finish well.

Despite being 2-0 up the next fifteen minutes were very scrappy with neither team able to maintain possession or control the ball. During this period Kilroot carved out their only chance of the half. Their left winger went on a run in which he was tackled three times only for the ball to fall kindly to him each time and he eventually got a shot in which was blocked by Collins.

Bryansburn still managed to extend their lead in the 13^th minute. This time the ball was worked down the left flank and Stanex combined with Patterson who slid the ball home from close range. Not much football was played the rest of the half from either team with Bryansburn comfortable and Kilroot incapable of making any inroads.

In the second half Kilroot were not much better and stand-in keeper Beattie was rarely troubled, with no more than the occasional shot from distance to deal with. For Bryansburn’s part two more goals in the opening twelve minutes of the half killed the game as a contest. Firstly in the 54^th minute Stanex completed his hat-trick when he gave the keeper no chance with another good finish. Then three minutes later Hanna received the ball on the left hand side of the box and from a tight angle clipped the ball over the top of the keeper and into the far corner to make it.

The rest of the match saw ‘Burn in total control with the only complaint being that they failed to add to their score. Both strikers and a couple of midfielders should have increased the tally but to be fair the visitors’ keeper did pull off a few good saves.

The 5-0 win takes the 2nds unbeaten run to five matches and moves them up to 5^th place in the league table. “Man of the Match” was Stanex closely followed by Collins.

The 3^rd XI took on runaway leaders North Down with key players Cardwell, McGimpsey and Scott all missing but put in a heroic performance going down by the only goal of the game.

‘Burn adopted a defensive formation and came under intense pressure for the opening twenty minutes being rather fortunate that the visitors’ did not notch an early strike. A forward headed wide from six yards out and then a flashing shot just whizzed past the upright. Bryansburn dug in and weathered the early storm before seeing a bit more of the ball and keeping possession well. North Down were still encamped in the ‘Burn half with the home side restricted to the counter-attack and McMurray tested the visitors’ keeper.

In the 24^th minute Steventon made a superb double save tipping a chip on to the bar when it was all but over him and then recovering in time to save the follow up. A North Down forward was then lucky to stay on the pitch as he broke through but clattered Steventon as he came out. After a lot of treatment Steventon stayed in but with his movement severely restricted. Somehow the Referee brandished a yellow card with the offender mightily relieved.

North Down then scored what turned out to be the only goal of the game when a cross to the back post was headed across goal and tuned in. ‘Burn appealed for offside but the Referee signalled that he thought the strike was good.

‘Burn then enjoyed their best spell of the match in the fifteen minutes before halftime and were extremely unlucky not to level the score. The keeper made two good stops from Dickson including an athletic tip over the bar, Dempster had an effort cleared off the line and a series of corners and free-kick’s from Beattie, Cole and McMurray put North Down under pressure for the first time in the match but the visitors’ held on  to their one goal lead at the interval.

The second half followed the same pattern as the first with the only difference being that the wind strengthened to the extent that ‘Burn struggled to get out of their half at times. Murphy and Dempster continually broke up play and behind them Patterson and McComb were outstanding to the extent that injured keeper Steventon was protected so well that he only had shots from distance to deal with.

McMurray produced a string of good balls for youngsters Shields and R.Dempster and from one of these the latter was put clean in on goal only for the keeper to save. With twenty-five minutes remaining Shields was clattered by the keeper and had to leave the fray with concussion leaving ‘Burn with only ten men. However, despite the numerical disadvantage, and the wind against then ‘Burn fought heroically to stay in the game.

In the last ten minutes Bryansburn threw an extra man into attack and North Down endured a few nervy moments leading to cheers from players and line whenever the final whistle blew.

Beast for Bryansburn was Patterson who was immense at the heart of the defence but this was a tremendous team effort. ‘Burn’s last four games have been against the top four in the league resulting in one win, two draws and just this solitary goal defeat by the Champions-elect. A great effort by a team of veterans.

The 4^th XI recorded their tenth successive league win on Saturday with a faultless performance against local rivals 3rd Bangor OB ll. During ninety minutes in when the players experienced all four seasons of weather ‘Burn maintained their league challenge with a resounding 7-0 victory.

Bryansburn started against the wind and the game was even until the 12th minute when Left-back McNeil hit a cross-field ball to Gardiner in the midfield who beat his marker to cross to Lowry at the back post. Lowry then cushioned the ball into the path of Bogle who opened the scoring. Emberson doubled with a fine half volley from inside the box, Lowry, who was struggling after a hefty challenge got the third, and then Stone grabbed the fourth all before the interval.

With the points already safe changes were made from the bench early in the second half to ensure that everyone was involved in this penultimate league game. Lowry then took the plaudits grabbing two more to complete his hat trick. The tireless working Gardiner was rewarded with a goal from a tantalising Stone right-wing cross running in between two defenders to head home to complete  the scoring.
Bryansburn now need to beat Newtown Forest ll in their final league game and hope that Greenwell Star ll can take points of Moat Park Rangers ll in their return match this Saturday. Such a scenario could see the 4ths lifting the Championship.

Special mention to Jamie Lowry who will be playing his last game this Saturday before emigrating to Canada. We wish him every success with his new venture.

The final training session at Bangor Sportsplex for this season is tonight (Thur) from 7pm to 8pm. On Tuesday training will be at Ballywooley (7pm). After that training will be at Ballywooley as and when scheduled by 1^st team Manager Stuart Mellon. With 1^st and 2nd team having so many midweek matches there will probably not be too many sessions.

Players are reminded that anyone owing money is unavailable for selection for any of the teams.  

Fixtures this Saturday:  1^st XI V Bangor Amateurs (h) and 4^th XI V Willowfield Parish ll (h). Next Thursday 3^rd April the 2^nd XI are away to Groomsport ll.

There are still a few places available on the Annual Club Trip consisting of return flights to Newcastle and three nights in a Travelodge Hotel leaving on Friday 30^th May returning Monday 2^nd June. Please contact Alan Dempster if you wish to join the travelling party.   

The next social event is on Saturday 12^th April when we will be holding the first Bryansburn Camel Race Night.  Please make plans to attend for what will be an important fundraiser as well as an enjoyable night.

Winkie fight

Bryansburn Rangers player William Close will be continuing his successful boxing career with another fight to be held at the Marine Court.  Winkie will be defending his title on the night.

Fighting on the 6th April, Sunday night at the Marine Court in a 6 round contest.  Tickets are £15.  Everyone welcome to come along and support Winkie.

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Healy hits the Big Screen

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Healy hits the Big Screen FOR years David Healy hit the back of the net for Northern Ireland, now, for one night only, he's hitting the Big Screen. 'David Healy hits the big screen' is a one off event in aid of The Alan McDonald Trust at the Odyssey Cinema in Belfast on Thursday 20 March at 7.45pm. Our leading international goalscorer will talk through the highs of his 13 year international career, but for the first time you get the chance to relive all the major moments again with David and a number of other former players on the big screen. From his early goals against Luxembourg and Malta to highlights of those great nights against England and Spain.  All the big nights and all the goals on the big screen. It's a night any Northern Ireland fan won't want to miss and all in aid of the charitable trust which has been set up in memory of one of Northern Ireland's greatest international players Alan McDonald. A limited number of tickets are still available for the event priced at £15 and including a drinks promotion.  If you would like to attend please contact joeltaggart@me.com for details regarding tickets.

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