Ballymacash are ten times better than the seconds

This week’s Match of the Day features a clash between two teams who should be all too familiar with each other.
Ballymacash YM take on Ballymacash YM II at Ballymacoss. US1536-533cd  Picture: Cliff DonaldsonBallymacash YM take on Ballymacash YM II at Ballymacoss. US1536-533cd  Picture: Cliff Donaldson
Ballymacash YM take on Ballymacash YM II at Ballymacoss. US1536-533cd Picture: Cliff Donaldson

Ballymacash YM took on their second string in the opening round of the Ironside Cup.

Turn your memory back to last season when these two Ballymacash teams met in the Ironside Cup and the firsts needed extra time to see off the seconds 2-1 before the Young Men went on to win the trophy.

It was certainly a different story this time with the firsts hammering home ten goals without reply against a demoralised second eleven. They certainly gained revenge and proved their point.

Ballymacash YM take on Ballymacash YM II at Ballymacoss. US1536-533cd  Picture: Cliff DonaldsonBallymacash YM take on Ballymacash YM II at Ballymacoss. US1536-533cd  Picture: Cliff Donaldson
Ballymacash YM take on Ballymacash YM II at Ballymacoss. US1536-533cd Picture: Cliff Donaldson

For the record book the senior team were 4-0 up at half-time before adding six more after the break. Stephen Tierney got four of the goals, James Thompson two, and Dexter Faulkner, Chris Richmond and two own goals made up the total.

Afterwards, manager of the firsts, Steven Elder, said the opening ten minutes were tight and there were thoughts of a poor pre-season on the minds, but he said they soon settled down.

“I know the match ended as one-way traffic, but I was really pleased with the football we played. The one touch play was great to watch and if we can maintain this standard we will be a match for anyone,’’ Elder added.

He picked out Perry McIlroy as their outstanding player in midfield from where he pulled the strings.

A huge scoreline is not the best start for, Match of the Day, but hopefully all changes next week when Warren YM II v 1st Lisburn II is the featured game.

This season, our football reporter Harry Allen will select one match each Saturday and those teams will see our photographer there to capture the game on camera in preparation for their spot in Match of the Day.