North Down Hockey Club | www.ndhc.co.uk

By R F Mitchell
05/02/2012

North Down entertained Cookstown in the Premier League at Comber Leisure Centre on Saturday seeking vital points in their relegation battle. After a much improved performance against Banbridge the previous week Coach Peter Whyte was hoping to build on that performance and be competitive against one of the best sides in Ulster hockey. North Down did that for 30 minutes but once Cookstown got their noses in front their confidence grew and they ran out easy winners by 8-0.

Cookstown started sharply and won several short corners in the first 10 minutes and it needed excellent work from keeper Andy Coates and skipper Steven McGimpsey with a fine goal line clearance to keep the visitors out. From another corner Richard Willis was then penalised for a high clearance but McGimpsey and Coates between them again cleared the danger. At the other end Richard Cooper and Willis combined to create a chance for Richard McMillan but his control let him down. Coates made a fine stop from a reverse shot and McGimpsey again cleared off the line from a corner after Colin Morrison had been penalised. It wasn’t quite all one way traffic as North Down had their best chance when they broke quickly and Bailie had two efforts on goal blocked by the keeper. However, with 7 minutes remaining in the half Cookstown broke the deadlock through Barbour who received the ball in mid circle, turned the defender and smashed the ball past Coates. Almost immediately, Cookstown increased their lead. Although an attacker appeared to kick the ball before a shot on goal was blocked illegally by Willis a penalty was awarded and successfully converted to make the half time score 2-0 in the visitors’ favour.

The second half was dominated by a rampant Cookstown side. Coates made four outstanding saves in a row as he attempted to keep the visitors at bay while at the other end a run by Ross Linter gave a half chance to David Shepherd but he was unable to get a shot away. On 50 minutes Barbour squared the ball across goal giving one of his forwards a simple tap in and with North Down having no answer to the fast flowing hockey being played by the visitors it was no surprise when they added to the scoreline 5 minutes later when an attacker was not picked up in the circle. A perfectly worked short corner 5 minutes later brought goal number five and, with North Down looking very ragged and fitness levels suspect, Cookstown added three further goals in the last 6 minutes. Indeed, had it not been for the brilliant efforts of keeper Coates, North Down could have been on the wrong side of a much bigger defeat.

Man of the Match: Andy Coates

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:: LADIES THIRDS MAKE AMENDS IN BANBRIDGE

By Kathryn Rodgers
05/02/2012

Having being narrowly beaten by Banbridge seconds earlier in the season North Down thirds were determined to win in the away fixture!

North Down started the game well, stringing passes together and playing the ball wide for wingers Amy Jones and Gillian Neill. North Down had a number of chances to take the lead but unfortunately their first touch and control let them down. The first goal came after good work down the right with Amy Jones finishing it off on the post after 15 minutes of play

After this the game was quite even and Banbridge went into the 2nd half determined to get the equaliser. With some excellent saves from Linda Marshall Banbridge couldn't get the equaliser and the game finished 1-0.
Player of the Match: Linda Marshall.

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:: THE SATURDAY BIRTHDAY SPOT

By
04/02/2012

4th Mark Linter
7th Phil Dorian

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:: Youth Fixtures GIRLS

By Peter Bond
02/02/2012

The following fixtures are for the Youth.

GIRLS

U11 & U13 a re due to play - Grosvenor, NICS, Victorians A & B and Pegasus.

on the following dates!

19/02/2012 - @ CIYMS

25/03/2012 - @ CIYMS

The branch have allocated the time of 13:30 - 15:30 for the games.

North Down's first game will be at 13:30.

The U15 Girls

have a match against Ards on 5/2/2012.

the match is at Ards Leisure Centre. and push back is at 13:00

If you have any queries please do not hesitate to contact Peter Bond on 07809465729 or peter_bond07@yahoo.co.uk

Any changes will be notified through the coaches and posted on the website.

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:: Youth Fixtures BOYS

By Peter Bond
02/02/2012

North down have been placed in a group with Instonians, Annadale and Cliftonville for the U11 & U13 age groups.

the following fixtures are confirmed:

5/02/2012 - U11 & U13 - Hosted by Instonians @ Shawsbridge.

U11 - 15:15 - 16:30

U13 - 16:30 - 18:00

11/03/2012 - U11 & U13 - Hosted by North Down @ Comber Leisure Centre

U11 - 14:15 - 15:30

U13 - 15:30 - 17:00
_____________________________________________________________

The U15 Boys

Friendlies confirmed -

03/02/2012 - NICS @ Comber Leisure Centre - 18:00 - 19:30

The boys have also been entered into a cup/plate competition:

12/03/2012 - vs Mossley Away - 11:30

The boys will play Away at NICS or Bambridge in the next round. This match is to be played on or before the 26/02/2012.

If you have any queries about the above information please do not hesitate to contact Peter Bond - 07809465729 or peter_bond07@yahoo.co.uk

Kind Regards

PB

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:: DINNER DANCE NEWS

By Jim Patterson
01/02/2012

All Club members on the email database have been sent updated details of the Dinner Dance on 14 April. If you didn't receive this email contact me asap.

‘A NIGHT TO REMEMBER’
14 April 2012

You can choose to attend our ‘Titanic’ themed dinner with a first class ticket or travel in steerage. Seats in first class are limited so book early to avoid disappointment.

CHOICE OF MENUS

FIRST CLASS TICKET Ł40pp (Formal Dress)

Trio of Starters
TOMATO AND BASIL SOUP
CAPS OF DEEP FRIED MUSHROOM SERVED WITH GARLIC AIOLI
SMOKED SALMON TARTARE
*
TITANIC PINK CHAMPAGNE SORBET
*
SLOW ROASTED STRANGFORD BEEF SERVED WITH A RICH PEARL AND ONION JUS.
SERVED WITH ASPARAGUS, HONEY ROAST PARSNIP AND CARROT, BABY ROAST POTATOES AND DAUPHINOISE POTATOES
*
YELLOWMAN AND BUSHMILLS PARFAIT
*
TEA/COFFEE AND MINTS

STEERAGE TICKET Ł30pp (Formal OR Smart Casual Dress)

HOMEMADE VEGETABLE BROTH
WITH FRESHLY BAKED BREADS
*
TRADITIONAL ROAST TURKEY AND HAM WITH STUFFING CHIPOLATAS AND GRAVY
SERVED WITH CHEFS CHOICE OF VEGETABLES AND POTATOES
*
APPLE TART AND CUSTARD
*
TEA/COFFEE

Tickets should be ordered and paid for in full before 31 March. Because of the planning involved in this event no bookings will be taken after 31 March. You will only be able to attend if you are in possession of a booking confirmation which will be issued to you by mail. Tickets may only be purchased from Andrea Mockford (Ladies 1sts) who will issue you with a receipt. You can see her at training on a Monday or Wednesday night or around the pitch / club on Saturdays. Also, you may contact her by email ajmockford@btinternet.com or text 07818 077644.

Remember! Places will only be guaranteed with cash, not promises!

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:: IMPORTANT MESSAGE TO ALL MEMBERS

By
01/02/2012

You're on the website now. Click on the Eastfundraising link and register with them then, when you want to buy anything online, go to the retail site via Easyfundraising and North Down gets a % of the sale. Costs you nothing! After all the reminders about this, we still only have a pathetic 27 members registered!!!!

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:: STRONG SHOWING BUT MENS FIRSTS DENIED IN BANBRIDGE

By R F Mitchell
31/01/2012

With games starting to run out, North Down travelled to Banbridge on Saturday hoping they could cause an upset and gain much needed points as they strive to fight off relegation to Senior 1. They are currently 4 points adrift of Harlequins who they still have to play so a win in that game will not suffice unless points are gained from other games as well.

North Down started well and won a short corner in the opening minutes when Stephen Magee was obstructed after receiving a good pass from Andy Corry. However it was Banbridge who scored first when slack marking down the left allowed the ball to be crossed in front of goal and provide a simple tap in after seven minutes. Banbridge scored their second three minutes later when a ball was crashed into the circle from the right and an unmarked forward somehow managed to get a touch and deflect the ball past Andy Coates in goal. A strong run from Magee then found Richard McMillan unmarked at the top of the circle but he attempted to shoot first time blasting the ball well wide of the target when he had plenty of time to control the ball before shooting. McCandless was unlucky at the other end when he blasted a corner off the top of the cross bar and then Gareth Bailie and Richard Cooper combined well but their attempt at goal was easily saved.

Bailie was unsettling the Bann defenders with his strong running and when he won a corner in the 20th minute David Sheppard stepped up and smashed the ball home to reduce the deficit to 2-1. Bann won three corners in succession to keep the pressure on but Coates was well placed to make an excellent save from the first, the second was wide and the third was blocked. Banbridge delivered a killer blow one minute before half time when North Down failed to properly clear the ball and the ball was returned into the circle where an incoming forward collected it and smashed it past Coates on the reverse.

Bann started the second half in confident mood and increased their lead after seven minutes. Stuart McCormick and Steven McGimpsey were beaten by a Bann attacker who unleashed an unstoppable reverse shot past Coates for 4-1. North Down started to push more men forward and began to find gaps in the Bann defence and Tom Donnan crossed to find Corry but his effort was wide. After another McCandless corner went wide the visitors gamely came back again through Keith Conway who was finding space in midfield. He played the ball into the circle where North Down found themselves with a three on one but were unable to get a shot on target. With 15 minutes remaining North Down won a corner and Magee smashed the ball home to make it 4-2. This turned out to be the final score although in the last ten minutes both goals had narrow escapes. North Down had chances to reduce the arrears when Richard Willis had a reverse effort blocked by the keeper and then the same player missed in front of goal after receiving a pass from Bailie whilst at the other end McGimpsey made a fine clearance and Coates made two more excellent saves.

If North Down can eradicate the silly mistakes from their play, they showed in this game that they have the commitment and ability to get points from their remaining games and retain their place in the Premier League. This Saturday sees the visit of Cookstown to Comber Leisure Centre and that will be another tough one!

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:: MOSSLEY JUST SHADE IT OVER MENS SECONDS

By Mark Linter
31/01/2012

North Down seconds entertained Mossley seconds at Comber Leisure Centre on Saturday looking to kick start their season as their struggle against relegation continues.

North Down started the brighter of the two teams with Stephen Forrest and Melvyn Nicholls combining to put the seconds 1-0 up after only seven minutes. Four minutes later, after a great move out of defence, the ball was swept up the pitch evading all Mossley’s efforts to intercept and Paul Revill was on hand at the far post to tap in for North Down’s second. Mossley managed to pull a goal back midway through the half by way of a short corner to make the half time score 2-1.

North Down did not manage to produce the same level of hockey in the second half and Mossley equalised on 41 minutes from open play. Despite the usual heroics from Matty Jordan in goals Mossley then went ahead for the first time on 48 minutes with another goal from open play to completely turn the game around and ended up 3-2 winners.

This was a disappointing end to a game which in truth was there for the taking. Lessons need to be learned by the young North Down seconds team who in the coming weeks still have enough games left to save their season.

Man of the Match – Michael Black

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:: MENS FOURTHS AND FIFTHS ROUND UP

By J Patterson
31/01/2012

The third eleven’s game in Newry fell victim to frost but important games for the fourths and fifths went ahead, both at Nendrum College.

The fourths had narrowly beaten Mossley fourths earlier in the season and were looking to add to their points tally to keep them in the top half of the table. They had an early setback when Mossley went ahead after only 8 minutes but two goals in 4 minutes from Ben Willis put them into a lead which they never relinquished. Jordan Linter with his first for the senior club and Martin Moreland added two more in quick succession to have the visitors on the ropes. A lack of discipline saw Mossley temporarily reduced to ten men and Peter Bond took full advantage adding a fifth goal just on half time.

In the second half Peter Shields continued his run of scoring with a sixth goal on 38 minutes and the game petered out as Mossley never looked like getting back into the match and the fourths were content to sit on their lead.

The fifths entertained promotion rivals Ballymena seconds with both teams aware that a win for either team would see them well placed for the league run in. Ballymena got off to a great start with an early goal and further rocked the home team with a second midway through the half from a penalty stroke.

The second half, with Peter Bond encouraging his young charges, saw an inspired fight back for the fifths with goals from Ryan Donaldson and the skipper ensuring a deserved share of the points. A result which, if anything, favours North Down fifths.

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:: U11 and U13 girls tournament and minis update

By PW
29/01/2012

Unfortunately, due to the bad weather, the U11 and U13 tournaments for the girls have been cancelled today. Sorry for any inconvenience.

The minis is still on at the minute but a decision will be made at 12.30 and put on the website.

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:: Minis session cancelled 29/1/12

By PW
29/01/2012

Given the bad weather, and no sign of it improving, please note that the minis session for today is cancelled.

Sorry for any hassle.

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:: DETAILS OF GAMES OFF TODAY!

By Jim Patterson
28/01/2012

The ladies 1st XI and 3rd XI games today are OFF due to frost. At the moment the ladies 2nd XI game at 2.30 pm is still ON.

All mens games are still ON. (at the moment)

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:: THE SATURDAY BIRTHDAY SPOT

By
28/01/2012

Just one this week .............
2nd Kerri Burnside

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:: Congratulations - Mr & Mrs Davidson

By Peter Bond
23/01/2012

Congratulations go to Johnny & Jane Davidson on todays new arrival.
Matilda Jane Davidson arrived at 11:50am weighing 7llbs 3oz.

Mummy & baby both doing well.

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:: LADIES THIRDS COMPLETE DOUBLE OVER RANDALSTOWN FOURTHS

By Kathryn Rogers
22/01/2012

The ladies thirds entertained Randalstown fourths at Comber Leisure Centre on Saturday hoping to follow up their 3-0 win at Randalstown earlier in the season. North Down got off to a strong start fighting for every 50-50 ball. They play was very even until North Down gained the first goal of the match. Laura Murray hit in to the attacking circle and Jilie Fisher finished it off. Throughout the first half both goalkeepers had their share of play with each team applying great pressure however the home defence stood strong with great clearances from Bev Brittian and Judith Orr. The first half came to and end and North Down were still in the lead.

Randalstown started the second half strongly putting pressure down the left side against Laura Murray and Julie Fisher and they soon equalized with a rebounded shot. North Down's heads didn't fall as play picked up with great teamwork between Kathy Taylor and Jo Irwin and the thirds took the lead again when Kathy Taylor scored from a penalty corner. North Down worked right until the end to score another goal but the clock beat them to it.

Player of the match was Laura Murray for her hard work and determination throughout the match.

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:: Ladies 1stXI Go Top of Senior 1

By DF
22/01/2012

The Ladies 1stXI entertained Greenisland on Saturday hoping to improve on the 2-2 result from earlier in the season. Having played, and won, a midweek friendly against a determined Larne team, they were keen to continue with the good results, but to also improve performance.
The same squad was selected from last week and they didn't disappoint as a one nil victory was enough to send the team top of Senior One, two points clear of Victorians.
The game itself was a tense affair with not many chances created by both teams. North Down attacked straight from the first whistle and had a couple of early chances. Amy Benson had them both and chose to shoot on the reverse, but both went just wide of the goal. Greenisland had chances of their own. Selina Lewis took a raised reverse shot off the line and cleared the danger and goalkeeper Adrienne Da Costa also produced a couple of good saves to continue her excellent form this season.
Greenisland dominated the start of the second half and won a few penalty corners but these were cleared well by the defence. Lauren Brown was tasked with the job of marking their only real danger player and she done it with ease, much to her opponents annoyance. Midway through the second half North Down got the decisive goal. A mazy run by Captain Rebecca Mitchell, who had only returned to the pitch following a first half head injury, was finished off by Amy Benson with a tap in at the back post. The remainder of the game was a midfield battle but North Down held on for a deserved win.
Jenny Todd had her best game for the club so far and Andrea Mockford also produced the form which she is capable off. Hannah McKee also played her part in both midfield and defence and her versatility is proving very useful. All the forwards are now contributing and playing well and are pushing for a starting position, but as they know its a squad game now so when they get on they need to make the most of their time.
Player of the match, as voted for by the team, goes to Selina Lewis.
We welcome back Assistant Coach (and ball collector) Keith Haslett from his travels in time for next weeks game.

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:: THE SATURDAY BIRTHDAY SPOT

By
21/01/2012

On this numerical palindromic day, GUESS WHAT? No birthdays this week!

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:: NEW KUKRI GOALIE SMOCKS

By Adrienne Da Costa
19/01/2012

The new Kukri goalie smocks have arrived.
Any which I was not able to hand out after the match with Larne last night I will have with me at the Leisure Centre on Saturday from 1.00 until 4ish.
Check the GALLERY for the launch photo.

I can be contacted on 07740443390.

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:: MENS THIRDS FINE AWAY WIN AT ANNADALE 4THS

By Sam Pyper
17/01/2012

The mens thirds made the short trip to play Annadale fourths at Loughmoss last Saturday determined to get back to winning ways and also make amends for a home defeat earlier in the season.

From the start they were seemingly in control however could not find that pass in the final third and at times forced the play too much. North Down did go a goal ahead when Johnson picked up on a mistake from the Annadale keeper and slotted home. The hosts were soon back in it with an equaliser and another to go 2-1 up with both goals due to some slack defending. The thirds continued to waste possession all over the park with a good first touch missing from all on the pitch. Annadale soon scored another on the break and suddenly from having all the possession, the thirds found themselves in an uphill battle. A comical mix up between Mockford and Pyper led to nothing when two-on-one with the keeper, however skipper Pyper’s flicked finish just before the break gave some hope at half time 3-2 down.

The half time tactics at the team talk were simple. Relax, gain control, keep it strong and the goals will come. In the second half the goals came however quality remained poor and most of the team could do with getting down to training to get their touch back. Galway got his goal scoring for the season up and running with a close finish and Mark Shannon scored the goal of the game with a fine first time finish. More comedy was then supplied from Pyper who couldn’t get the ball out of his feet when put through one on one. It was memorable, not so much for the skipper! A well worked short corner then rounded of the scoring with Mockford’s text book finish.

This was a good fight back however much improvement required is in the second half of the season to keep pressure on any promotion spot.

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:: IMPROVEMENT FROM MENS FIRSTS BUT GARVEY CLASS TELLS

By R F Mitchell
16/01/2012

North Down entertained Lisnagarvey at Comber Leisure Centre last Saturday in the Premier League but with not having played since 3 December and with Garvey playing regularly it was always going to be difficult for the home side to match their visitors’ fitness and touch. Having lost heavily at Garvey earlier in the season North Down were determined to give a much improved performance and provide some much needed confidence.

In the opening minutes Andy Corry and Richard Cooper combined well but the danger was cleared. At the other end Garvey won a corner but Coates made a fine stick save. After 10 minutes Stevie Dalzell was introduced but with his first touch Garvey won possession and attacked the circle and although Coates made a fine block the ball was not cleared from his pads and a Garvey forward nipped in to score. Almost immediately Garvey won a corner which was saved at the expense of another and at the second attempt Arbuthnot flicked home at the far post.

North Down settled after this and were unlucky not to score on a number of occasions. Richard Willis made a great run down the right and crossed to Stephen Magee whose shot from mid circle was saved by Tormey. It was then the turn of North Down old boy Andy Forrest to show his skills when he won a corner but the shot was easily cleared. In further North Down pressure Cooper passed to Willis but his cross to the far post evaded everyone then Keith Conway made a strong run down the left and his perfect cross flashed across the goal when it seemed certain North Down would score. North Down’s final chance of the half came when Willis and Bailie broke clear of the Garvey defence finding themselves on a two on one with the keeper but the wrong option was taken and the danger cleared.

At the start of the second period Andy Corry was penalised for a high stick but the corner was cleared by Willis who made a fine block. After 50 minutes Garvey won a corner for feet and Arbuthnot expertly converted leaving the home defence with no chance. Play was confined to mid field but as North Down legs tired Garvey enjoyed more possession and with 7 minutes remaining the home defense failed to clear and a forward blasted the ball home. Both teams finished with ten men as first of all Andy Corry received a yellow for a push and then a Garvey player was penalised for breaking down play. Just before the end Garvey had a chance to extend their lead when Forrest won another corner but the danger was cleared.

This was a much improved performance by North Down and if they had not made simple errors in defence and been more clinical at the other end they may have stolen what would have been a very valuable point.

Check the GALLERY for some photos from the game.

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:: LADIES THIRDS GOOD FORM CONTINUES

By Kathryn Rogers
15/01/2012

North Down thirds got off to a solid start at Comber Leisure Centre following the 3-0 victory over Armagh last Saturday. Right from the whistle the North Down forwards put the Harlequins defence under serious pressure. The first goal of the match came from left wing Gillian Neill. The Harlequin forwards did their best to try to even the score but with great defending from Rebecca Nield and Bev Brittain they failed to do so. Almost on half time the thirds scored again, this time from centre mid Kathy Taylor.

In the second half Harlequins put the North Down defence under pressure and managed to score. North Down's heads didn't drop as another goal was scored after much scrapping in the circle by Julie Fisher and the third goal was scored by Gillian Neill. Centre back Judith Orr made excellent clearances from the circle keeping the home circle clear. The fourth goal was scored by Jo Irwin quickly followed by Gillian Neill claiming a hat-trick. In the last ten minutes played North Down worked extremely well together with some great one two passing between Kathy Taylor and Julie Fisher.

Player of the Match Julie Fisher.

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:: Ladies 1stXI Maintain Title Challenge

By DF
15/01/2012

After a four week break in playing competitive hockey, North Down travelled to Knock hoping to continue the good form shown before Christmas. Having lost the services of Pamela Gibson and Kathryn Mullin for the remainder of the season, Rachel Mornin and Olivia Brown, making her senior debut, were drafted in.
The Knock team was a different one to the side faced at the beginning of the season, with them recalling a lot of their former Premier League players, but North Down were confident they would record a victory.
The game itself was a scrappy affair with most of the play in midfield. The only real chance in the first half, along with a couple of penalty corners, was an Olivia Brown one-on-one with the Knock 'keeper but the 'keeper produced a good save.
The second half continued in the same vain as the first, but with a few positional changes, North Down produced a good attacking move down the right side which ended with Zara Millar crossing for Amy Benson for a simple tap in.
North Down continued to press for a second and with ten minutes remaining were rewarded a penalty stroke after captain Rebecca Mitchell had a shot saved illegally on the line by a Knock defender. Laura Clarke stepped up and despatched the penalty with ease.
North Down held on for a deserved two nil victory and with this keeps the title challenge alive.
Player of the match goes to Laura Clarke

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:: Ladies training cancelled on Wednesday 18th Jan

By Df
15/01/2012

All ladies training on wednesday night is cancelled as the 1stXI have a friendly with Larne.

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:: THE SATURDAY BIRTHDAY SPOT

By
14/01/2012

14th Anne McBride
18th Davy Moreland

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:: TABLE QUIZ

By J Patterson
14/01/2012

One week to go.

Are you in a team yet??

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:: OUTSTANDING SUBSCRIPTIONS

By W Reid
12/01/2012

A number of members' subscriptions, both full and part, are still outstanding. The absolute deadline for payment of any outstanding subscription is 31 January. The General Committee will meet on 2 February and will consider what action to take on unpaid subs - this is likely to be immediate suspension from that date.

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:: LADIES 50TH ANNIVERSARY

By Jim Patterson
12/01/2012

Plans are well in hand for the celebration of the ladies 50th Anniversary.

There will be an informal get together on 5 February at 2.00 pm in the Cricket Club where there will be a display of old photos and memorabilia etc with snacks provided.

Julie Fisher (0796717727) is making many of the arrangements and would love to see as many North Down ladies players, coaches, umpires and supporters of the past 50 years coming along as can make it.

For updates on the afternoon check the 'EVENTS' section on this website.

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:: TABLE QUIZ - 21 JANUARY - CRICKET CLUB

By Jim Patterson
12/01/2012

Are you in a team yet?????????

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:: TICKETS FOR MENS OLYMPIC QUALIFIER

By Jim Patterson
10/01/2012

The mens Olympic Qualifying Tournament will be held from 10 - 18 March at UCD, Dublin, as previously announced.

Tickets are available by email from
tickets@hockey.ie or
ordering directly online at
www.hockey.ie

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:: GOALSCORING MILESTONES REACHED

By Club statto
08/01/2012

Stephen Magee added his name to the exclusive 100 club yesterday with his goal for the seconds. However he still has a bit of ground to make up on Peter Shields who became the first North Down player to score 300 goals with his two for the fourths yesterday.

Well done both!

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:: Youth Training

By Peter Bond
08/01/2012

Notice for all the youth, Happy new year and welcome back after the short winter break. I hope evrybody had an an excellent Christmas and Santa was very kind.

For all of you who got hockey related presents the time is fast approaching when you get to use them!

Youth training recommence on Monday the 9th for the under 15's and for all the minis on Sunday the 15th.

For any Youth members who would like to start the new year with new hockey kit or accessories get down to Premier sports in comber where there is a massive 30% off hockey related items!

Here is to another fanstanstic year at North Down hockey club. Looking forward to seeing you all next week.

The coaching team.

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:: THE SATURDAY BIRTHDAY SPOT

By
07/01/2012

7th Irene McCaughan
8th Paul Beaney
9th Michael Orr
10th Anne Burrell
13th Terry Ritchie

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:: BACK TO LEAGUE HOCKEY FINALLY

By J Patterson
05/01/2012

After the two weeks holiday break and the two weeks before that which were virtually both frozen out it's back to league hockey this weekend.

Neither of the 1st XIs are playing and almost all of our teams will be looking to avenge defeats against their opposition earlier in the season. Only the men's 5ths who defeated Inst 5ths 9-2 and the ladies' 4ths who drew with Annadale 2nds emerged with points from those games!

Bring it on!

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:: Ladies 1stXI training

By DF
02/01/2012

Ladies 1stXI training resumes on Wednesday night at 6.45pm

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:: THE SATURDAY BIRTHDAY SPOT

By
31/12/2011

1st Simon Murray
2nd Marion Parker
3rd Heather Kinnier
6th Rebecca Walker

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:: IMPORTANT - NEW YEARS EVE PARTY

By Bond ................ Peter Bond
30/12/2011

The demand for tickets for the New Years Eve Party has exceeded the legal limit for the building.

Many people have paid in advance so they are OK.

There is a further list of people who have confirmed attendance but have not paid yet. Payment for these tickets must be made before the event.

Peter Bond will be at the Cricket Club tomorrow afternoon from 3.30 pm to receive payments. If you are over 18 and on this list it’s first come, first served.

Once the legal limit for the building has been reached for those who have paid tomorrow afternoon (31st), a line will be drawn and there can be no further payments accepted even if you have put your name on the list weeks ago. If you rock up at 10.30 pm and haven’t paid, you can’t get in, simple as that.

Please understand this as there can be no exceptions and tell any of your friends about this who are not Club members and who haven't paid.

No cash will be taken at the door on the night so please ensure your ticket by paying Peter tomorrow afternoon at the Cricket Club.

The OVER 18 Rule applies of course.

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:: BOXING DAY CHARITY MATCH

By Jim Patterson
28/12/2011

The final sum raised on the day was Ł282. Well done to all involved.

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:: KEITH IS LAST MAN STANDING

By Jim Patterson
28/12/2011

Congratulations to Keith Conway who has beaten off over 100 rivals to win the Cricket Club's Last Man Standing competition!

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:: CHARITY AGAIN THE ONLY WINNER IN THE BIG BOXING DAY CLASH!

By Jim Patterson
27/12/2011

Honours were shared at Comber Leisure Centre on Boxing Day as the Hockey and Cricket Clubs played out a well contested 4-4 draw and this time it really was charity, in the form of the Northern Ireland Cancer Fund for Children, which was the only winner.

The Hockey Club playing without a goalkeeper raced into a 3-0 lead in the first 20 minutes before this was pegged back to 3-2 at half time with the hockey defense taking the coward's way out at short corners from Peter Shields.

The Cricket Club equalised at the start of the second half and looked to be cruising until Tom Donnan again put the Hockey Club ahead by 4-3 against the run of play. The Cricket Club then equalised again to set up a tense finish urged on by a small crowd of spectators.

Afterwards in the Clubhouse the cricket team supplied the food and the hockey team and others supplied the ballot prizes for the draw in aid of the NICFC. Thanks to all who helped in any way and to Peter Shields and Gareth Bailie who organised the teams.

We will publish the total sum raised when it has been finalised.

Some images from the game are on the gallery.

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:: HAPPY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE

By
25/12/2011

Happy Christmas to everyone from North Down Hockey Club.

Next event is the annual charity game on Boxing Day NDHC V NDCC 1.00pm at Comber Leisure Centre. This years chosen charity ib the Northern Ireland Cancer Fund for Children. Ballot in the Clubhouse after the game.

Everyone welcome!

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:: New Year Eve - Just one week to go!

By Peter Bond
24/12/2011

Wow can you believe it the end of 2011! If you've still not sorted out your New Years Eve plans then don't worry! We are having our annual bash down at the Cricket club!

Due to high demand last year, this year we are ticketing the event, so you reserve your spot down at the club and not worry about lengthy queues like last year!!

For those of you who want to buy a ticket or those who have already requested tickets, please go down to the cricket club, where they can be purchased/collected from behind the bar.

Tickets are the standard price of Ł5 and guarantee entry to the club before 11pm.

For those of you lucky enough to have just turned 18, or those of you who just look youthful, please bring ID along on the night to ensure your entry.

No exceptions!!!

Merry Christmas to everybody and looking forward to seeing you all down on NYE and here is to a happy 2012!!

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:: DECEMBER STICK IT! NEWSLETTER

By Jim Patterson
24/12/2011

The latest edition of the Club newsletter STICK IT! was emailed to all Club members yesterday. If you didn't get your copy, contact Jim Patterson.

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:: THE CHRISTMAS EVE BIRTHDAY SPOT

By
24/12/2011

Only 1 next week:

27th Lee Brown

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:: 5XI get physical

By Peter Bond
20/12/2011

There was no postponement for the 5xi who travelled to Downpatrick to face Down 2nds.

With a cool chill in the air both sides were eager to get started, but it was Down who were out the blocks first with a great physical presence in midfield they dictated the early tempo.

There was an early injury scare for North Down as within the first 5 minutes Johnny Davidson was caught with a late challenge and was thrown down onto the hard gravel surface. The challenge however appeared to look worse than it was and Davidson was soon back to commanding the rear guard.

Down continued to press stretching the North Down defence with their movement up front and intuitive runs through midfield and were eventually rewarded when the Down forward receiving a through ball, turned smartly in the circle to hit home past the despairing Glover.

The first goal shook North Down into life as they started to mount attacks of their own. Stephen Campbell and Sam Brown both providing excellent width and Daniel Kerr dictating the play at the top of the midfield diamond.

The eventual breakthrough came when Campbell picked up the ball and carried it to the edge of the circle unchallenged; he then danced around three defenders before putting into a foot winning a short. This lead to a succession of shorts. Burch pushed the ball to Kerr, whose cross shot hit a defenders foot 2 yards out from goal. The appeals (retrospectively comical) for another short were greeted with a play on by the umpire and it was Bond who reacted first, lifting the ball into the net from close range.

The sides went in at half time even.

In the second half the midfield battle intensified, Ryan Donaldson breaking up the Down attacks excellently as North Down looked to hit Down on the break.

Donaldson picking up the ball in midfield carried it forward and fed it to Brown in the outside right channel. Brown advanced into the circle and crossed the ball for Bond to finish the job with a smart finish into the bottom corner.

The remaining fifteen minutes seem to last an eternity Down throwing more and more men forward only to be denied by excellent defending by David Burch and Adam Wilson.

For the final few minutes it was all hands to the pump as Down laid siege to the North Down circle and went close on numerous occasions.

With seconds to go Down crossed the ball from the right the ball looped up and fell nicely to the Down forward who made no mistake from 3 feet out. The goal was met with a chorus of appeals from the North Down players who claimed the ball had looped up off the ankle of a Down player, however the umpire didn’t see it and the goal was given.

Within the seconds of the restart the final whistle was blown. 2-2 the final score and overall a fair result.

Man of the match: Ryan Donaldson

Special mention to Mark Vincent who played his first full game of senior hockey and showed some excellent movement and some great touches of the ball. A real testament to the youth development at the club carried out by Terry Ritchie and Paul Johnson. - Well done Mark.

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:: EXCELLENT AWAY WIN FOR MENS FOURTHS AT COOKSTOWN

By Sam Pyper
19/12/2011

The thirds travelled to Cookstown fourths last Saturday for one of the few matches that was not postponed due to the frost. On arrival hot water and a lot of brushing was being applied to the pitch and much to the surprise of the visitors, the match was to go ahead on an already freezing pitch.

Having travelled, North Down were keen to play and although the pitch quickly deteriorated the match was played in full. With the home side’s strong 16 man squad, Cookstown were surprised by the third’s dominance and multiple chances on goal in the first half. Only the good form of the home keeper and missed chances kept the scoreline intact until the law of averages saw the thirds convert one open net through A ndrewShannon at the back post. The hosts however got back into the game through a soft short corner and the score was 1-1 at half time.

The second half continued as the first ended with numerous chances being wasted by North Down. With the goal gaping efforts went wide and high over the bar and the game really should have been out of sight. North Down continued and skipper Pyper beat a defender to a loose ball and struck home to make it 2-0. The visitors' circle was becoming treacherous with the freezing temperatures and the game should have been abandoned however the call was not made and with ND 1 to the good, lips were sealed. Cookstown amazingly looked like they would get something from the game when their left midfielder’s mazy run ended with a good finish. Anything less than 3 points for the visitors would have been a travesty and deservedly they got back into the lead through A Shannon after some good work from Bailey and Pyper, left the lethal finisher with what he does best. FT – 3-2 Northdown and the winning streak continues into the new year

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:: LADIES FIRSTS DEFEAT CIVIL SERVICE TO GO SECOND IN THE LEAGUE

By Keith Haslett
18/12/2011

The North Down Ladies 1st XI achieved a well deserved 3 - 1 win against Civil Service to move into second position in the league. The North Down players prepared well for the Civil Service game and managed to come out on top with some excellent goals and good defending under pressure.
The game started well for North Down with some good passing moves between Laura Clarke and midfield players. Amy Benson scored the first goal of the game with a great solo effort into the circle and lobbed the goalkeeper into the back of the net. Kathryn Mullin played another solid game in defence with some good passing down the right hand side, before she now heads off to Manchester in the New Year. The North Down team then came under a bit of pressure from Civil Service towards the end of the first half with a number good interceptions from the North Down defenders.
Civil Service then leveled the game with a well struck short corner into the bottom corner of the net. The game finished 1 -1 at half time.
The second proved successful for North Down with some well worked moves down the right hand wing with Hannah McKee and Bex Mitchell. The good hockey was rewarded with North Down being given a penalty stroke for obstruction in front of goal. Laura Clarke then converted the stroke to give North Down a 2 -1 lead. Andrea Mockford also worked hard down the left with good link play with Zara Miller and Amy Benson. Janice Scott made a Christmas appearance and played well until she got a knock on the nose and had to come off looking like Rudolph. The defenders Selina Lewis and Lauren Brown also worked extremely hard throughout the game. North Down were lucky not to concede a second goal when the goalkeeper Da Costa came out for what can only be described as a Fabien Barthez moment with the ball, but she managed to recover well.
The final goal of the came from an excellent run down the right wing by Bex Mitchell to square the pass into Amy Benson who finished it really well to finish the game off.
The North Down team and coaches would like to thank the supporters for all their support in the 2011/12 season so far and look forward to winning more games in the New Year.
North Down have now moved up into second place in the league before the Christmas break and can enjoy the festivities before returning in January.
Farmview Player of the Match was Amy Benson for some excellent runs and hard work rate throughout the game.
Check the gallery for some images from the game.

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:: NORTH DOWN LADIES 1st XI GAME IS ON

By KHaslett
17/12/2011

The Ladies 1st XI match against Civil Service is being moved to Ards Leisure Centre for a 1pm start. The pitch at the minute will be reviewed at 12pm to confirm it is playable.

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:: POSTPONEMENTS DUE TO WEATHER

By Jim Patterson
17/12/2011

Home games due to be played today at Comber Leisure Centre have been postponed due to frost. They are:
2.30 pm Mens 1sts V Harlequins
4.00 pm Mens 2nds V Raphoe 2nds

The ladies 1.00pm game with Civil Service will be played at Ards Leisure Centre if playable.

Pitch inspections are due at Nendrum College and Ards Leisure Centre for the other home games. The website will be updated when news arrives.

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:: THE SATURDAY BIRTHDAY SPOT

By
17/12/2011

19th Richard Cooper
20th Caroline Elliott
20th Nikki Ferris

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:: GOALSCORING MILESTONES

By Club Statto
16/12/2011

Weather permitting and that games go ahead on Saturday two strikers are on the verge of big targets. Peter Shields has been inching towards 300 career goals and has now reached 298. Stephen Magee has been on 99 since the start of the season and has a chance tomorrow against Harlequins.

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:: New Years Eve Party

By Peter Bond
14/12/2011

Wondering what to do at new years eve? Avoid Costly Cabs and inflated Belfast prices by joining us down at North Down Cricket club and see then new year in with Friends, family and team mates!

Due to such high demand, this year we are going to ticket the event. - a ticket costing just Ł5 - will guarentee your entry into the cricket club before 11pm!

there will be the usually shenanagans of special offer shots, a ballot, and a happy hour where you can enjoy cut price drinks!

The DJ is booked... the party is only weeks away!

Time to get your plans into motion...

E-mail me at peter_bond07@yahoo.co.uk to reserve your place!

go on... DO IT!!!

Over 18's only.... this year your names not down... your not coming in!

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:: Mens Premier League Fixtures

By robin mitchell
12/12/2011

The following is a list of dates for remaining fixtures

14 Jan v Lisnagarvey Home
28 Jan v Banbridge Away
4 Feb v Cookstown Home
11 Feb v Annadale Home
25 Feb v Banbridge Home
3 March v Annadale Away
31 March v Cookstown Away

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:: MEN'S FOURTHS NARROW DEFEAT AT SOUTH ANTRIM 3RDS

By Jim Patterson
11/12/2011

The men’s fourths played in the only North Down game of the weekend when they travelled to Lisburn to play South Antrim 3rds.
South Antrim were out of the blocks first and started at a fast pace which kept the North Down team penned back in their own half. During a series of short corners skipper Martin Moreland made a great goal line clearance deflecting the ball wide but then allowed another effort on 16 minutes to bounce over his stick for the opening goal.
South Antrim continued to dominate but against the run of play on 25 minutes Peter Shields scored with a cross from inside the circle which was deflected in by a defender. The umpire initially awarded a long corner but South Antrim sportingly corrected him and the goal was awarded. Right on the half time whistle Peter Shields worked the ball from a rare North Down penalty corner to Jamie Hunter who scored convincingly to put the visitors into an unlikely 2-1 half time lead.
The fourths came into the game more strongly in the second half and looked as if they were going to add to their lead so it came as a surprise when South Antrim against the run of play equalised. The remainder of the half was competitive with neither team satisfied with a draw and it was South Antrim who got the winner with 5 minutes remaining from a penalty corner with the ball crossing the line at the far post mysteriously vacated by Phil Dorian.
Check the photo gallery for some images of the game.

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:: PARTY TIME (S)!!!!

By Peter Bond
10/12/2011

Just to confirm the schedule for this weekend's childrens party!

The Mini - Usual training 1;30 until 2:30pm - then Up to the Club house for sandwiches, drinks and party food!

The U15's - meet down at the leisure centre pitch at 2:30 where coaches will assist you will plays some inter-club matches!

The up to the club house for your sandwiches, drinks and party food.

Parents and Guardians are welcome, and the br will be open!!!

looking forward to seeing you all on sunday.

for updates before or on the day, please contact Peter Bond - 07809465729.

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:: THE SATURDAY BIRTHDAY SPOT

By
10/12/2011

10th Rebecca Mitchell
10th Ray Browne
12th Emma Gowdy
14th Judith Orr
15th William Hastings
15th Conor Millar

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:: BIG FREEZE IS BACK

By Adc
10/12/2011

ALL LADIES MATCHES ARE OFF

Enjoy your shopping

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:: DETAILS OF MENS GAMES OFF

By Jim Patterson
10/12/2011

2nds V Raphoe 2nds away - OFF
3rds V Cookstown 4ths @ Comber LC - OFF
5ths V Down 2nds @ Comber LC - OFF

Only mens game currently ON is 4ths V South Antrim 3rds @ Laurelhill HS @ 1.00 pm

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:: Christmas Party!!!!!!

By Peter Bond
07/12/2011

Sunday will see the return of the Youth Christmas party!!! to coincide with the last training session of the year the children can come up to the club house where there will be party food and music to get you all in the christmas spirt and ready for santa!!!!!

Mums, Dad and other guardians are welcome too as the bar will be open!

ther will be a party for the mini's party is 1:30pm until 3pm.

For the under 15's Weahther permitting there will be a inter club tournament between 1:30 and 3pm and then up to the club for a party until 4:30pm!!!

If it is snowy, or the pitch is frozen, just come along to the club house at 3pm!!!

there will be a present for all the kids! so don't miss out!

for any further information please do not hesitate to contact Peter Bond - Youth administration on 07809465729.

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:: Brown brilliant and Devlin destructive as 5xi win!

By Peter Bond
06/12/2011

A reverse fixture saw the 5XI entertain NIC 6XI on Saturday at Comber leisure centre. With the heat of the day well and truly gone the teams took to the flood lit pitch.
The game opened at pace, Service taking the push back and being placed immediately under pressure by the North Down front line.
The midfield battle was intense as the “long ball from the back” was often cut out by the North Down midfield or Donaldson and McMullan.
It was Stephen Campbell and Sam Brown from the wide areas who got the most joy, switching the ball through the midfield coupled with excellent movement, allowed each of them to use their pace and skills to carve open the service back line leading to the first goal.
Campbell feeding the ball into the circle at pace resulting in a goal mouth scramble to which Brown finished off at close range.
North Down began to dominate and within 15 minutes the lead was doubled this time Stephen Campbell scoring another trademark reverse stick shot… (Albeit from closer range than normal), and a well taken “3D hockey shot” from Jonny Burch grabbed North Down a third.
Service however we not for lying down and a good move through the middle turned the North Down defence (raising questions over Graham’s choice of footwear) and suddenly they were back in with a chance at 3-1.
North Down however responded when Mark Simpson coolly slotted home a short corner.
4-1 at the break.
The first goal of the second half was crucial, and it went to the home side and a fantastic team goal it was, McMullan picking out Bond in the middle of the opposition half. The ball was then slipped through to Brown at the right hand side of the circle. Brown then fired the ball square for Devlin to finish at the back post. – and with that north down were up and running again.
Superior movement of North Down lead to the sixth, Brown feeding Bond inside the circle, who dragged it across the front to the keeper before finishing with a one handed reverse. (Come to training if you want to practice these!!).
The final nail in the coffin was delivered by Peter Devlin who got between defender and goal keeper and forced the ball home from 8 yards.
Nothing to be taken away from an excellent 5xi performance however,You know it is going to be your day when Roger Graham plucks a ball out of the air with his reverse stick! –especially as later I found out that he’d been sampling the delights of the continental market until late the night before and also that he wasn’t wearing his contacts and couldn’t see anything for the whole game. – Luck or judgement – you decide!!

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:: FIRST ELEVEN SHARE SPOILS AT INST

By Robin F Mitchell
06/12/2011

Having been at the wrong end of two heavy defeats earlier in the season at the hands of Instonians, North Down travelled to Shaws Bridge last Saturday with confidence waning. Coach Peter Whyte’s task was made more difficult by the withdrawal of Richard Cooper and Stuart McCormick who were on wedding duties and Ross Linter, Steven McGimpsey, Michael Black and Steven Forrest all with injuries.

However the team went out with great determination and a fantastic defensive display saw them achieve a deserved point in a 1-1 draw. Instonians did enjoy the majority of possession but a tight North Down defence kept the number of chances to a minimum. Inst won the short corner count 8-1 but were unable to trouble the visitors’ defence with a poor routine. They failed to attack the circle and continually resorted to smashing balls into the circle from wide areas looking for deflections but tight marking and sound goalkeeping saw the goal well protected. It was North Down who created the best chances throughout the game and the first fell to Steven Magee. A cross from Richard Willis found Magee unmarked on the penalty spot but his control let him down and the ball went over the byline.

After 20 minutes North Down took the lead when Gareth Bailie had a great reverse shot from the left of the circle and Dalzell was on hand to slap the ball home at the far post. Inst became frustrated with their play and were unable to create any further first half chances, the score standing at 1-0 to the visitors at half time.

The second half saw Inst pile on the pressure as they searched for the equaliser. It came on the one occasion when gaps appeared in the North Down defence. Magee appeared to be fouled on the edge of the Inst circle and the North Down players stopped waiting for a whistle that didn’t come. Meanwhile Inst broke quickly exploiting the space and Robinson scored a fine goal. Andy Coates made a fine save when confronted with a one on one with the left winger and it looked only a matter of time until Inst went ahead but North Down had other ideas and had 2 great chances to win the game in the final ten minutes. Firstly a great ball from Richard Willis found Philip Wilson but his first time effort went agonisingly wide, then Dalzell found himself in front of goal three yards out with only the keeper to beat. He failed to get proper contact and his effort was blocked but fell to Bailie who was also unable to scramble the ball over the line.

A competitive game was marred by an unsavoury incident which saw Robinson red carded. Bailie fouled the Inst goalscorer as he made a last ditch tackle but Robinson retaliated and his dangerous action was correctly punished by umpire Johnston.

This was an excellent performance by a makeshift North Down team which will give coach Whyte some selection headaches for the next game on 17 December against Harlequins.

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:: LADIES SECONDS STEAL A POINT AT GROSVENOR

By Ali Millar
06/12/2011

The ladies seconds played Grosvenor 2nds at CIYMS last Friday evening and with just a squad of eleven fought consistently resulting in a 2-2 draw.

The first half started promisingly with many great runs from Shannen White splitting the defence in two and super balls out from sweeper Rebecca Walker and Karen Moore provided some great chances. This lead to Shannen White producing a great goal which put the seconds ahead. This however was closely followed by two goals from the opposition to give them a 2-1 lead. However the solid defence of Laura ,Karen Jackson, Rebecca Walker, Karen Moore and Sheona Whiteside in goals held off the attackers in the second half assisted by a strong midfield of Amy Jones, Ali Millar and Jenna Hoey.

Finally in the last minute a perfectly weighted ball from Karen Moore via Ali Millar found Barbara Moles who smashed the ball into the bottom corner of the net for her 10th of the season and levelled the game at 2-2. Thanks to Gavin Wilson for umpiring.

Player of the Match;:Rebecca Walker

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:: NEW DATE FOR THE TABLE QUIZ

By Jim Patterson
05/12/2011

The new date for the Annual Table Quiz is 21 January 2012 at 7.30 pm in the Cricket Club.

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:: Ladies 1stXI Storm to Victory

By DF
05/12/2011

The Ladies 1stXI got back to winning ways this week with an emphatic 5-2 victory over Cookstown. After drawing their previous two league games it was important to start converting the many chances they create and to keep pace with those around them in the league.
Straight from the first whistle the Ladies attacked the Cookstown goal. After three minutes great build up play led to Charlotte Mckee putting the ball in the net but after pressure from the Cookstown defence the umpire somehow changed his mind to award a free hit after it had hit a North Down foot. Not to be deterred North Down continued on the attack and the opening goal came soon after with Amy Benson scoring a wonderful goal on the reverse. Unlike most weeks when we weren't converting our chances, today was different. Hannah Mckee soon got her first goal of the season as she was left unmarked at the top of the circle to strike the ball across the keeper into the far corner of the net. Captain Rebecca Mitchell led the team by example and was a constant threat down the right hand side. Just before half time Amy scored her second and North Downs third.
In the corresponding fixture last season the ladies were also three nil up but managed to end up drawing three all, so talk at half time was this wasnt happening today, and we wanted more goals!!
Cookstown adopted a more physical approach to the second half and soon after the restart scored. The North Down defence have learned to match opponents physicality this season and the two young defenders Lauren Brown and Selina Lewis did this with great effect. North got another goal midway through the second half with Amy Benson sealing her hattrick. A great effort for the hard work she puts in with her tireless running in defence and attack. Cookstown soon scored with a penalty corner but the goal of the game came in North Downs next attack. Captain Rebecca Mitchell collected the ball in her own half and beat a couple of players to get to the bye line. With no North players in the 'D' , she fooled the Cookstown 'keeper by disguising a pass across goal only to score at the near post. A great goal and well deserved for her display today.
A brilliant team display and individually everybody played well also. Thanks to Nikki Ferris for deputising in goal as Adrienne recovers from injury. Laura Clarke impressed in her more attacking role and Katherine Mullin likewise with her distribution from the back and strong tackling. Rachel Mornin brought her fine form from the 2ndXI and was an able replacement among the back line. The midfield trio of Andrea Mockford, Jenny Todd and Hannah Mckee worked hard all match and dominated the game for North Down. In attack, our forwards movement and pace caused problems for Cookstown all game.
With two games left before the Christmas break it is important we continue winning to keep pressure on the teams above.
This weeks player of the match, as voted for by the team, was a joint one with Selina Lewis and Amy Benson victorious.

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:: Training. youth section. 5/12/11

By Peter Bond
05/12/2011

Just to confirm that pitch is not playable tonight... however the boys can still go down to play football in the main hall!!! Keep the fitness up!

The girls however are cancelled all together, sorry for any inconvenience.

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:: Ladies 1st XI squad training Mon 5 Dec

By adc
05/12/2011

Ladies are booked in to circuits tonight. Be there 6.40

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:: Mens training cancelled

By PW
05/12/2011

All mens training is cancelled tonight with the exception of the u13 and u15 boys who will train indoors 6-7.

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:: THE SATURDAY BIRTHDAY SPOT

By
03/12/2011

3rd Rebecca Nield
3rd Lyndsey Lappin
3rd David Adgey
6th Holly Monson
6th Rebecca Brown
9th Philip Wilson
9th Linda Marshall

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:: NORTH DOWN NUPTIALS

By Arc
03/12/2011

Congratulations to Mens and Ladies 1st XI players Richard Cooper and Naomi Dawson who tied the knot yesterday.

Never has anyone gone to such drastic lengths to get a Saturday off.

Best wishes from all your friends at North Down.

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:: BIG MATCH ONE DAY AWAY!

By J Patterson
02/12/2011

It's showdown time at Comber Leisure Centre on Saturday at 1.00pm when the men's thirds and fourths meet in a Junior Three league match. This is the highest ever league meeting between two North Down teams and they go into the game with almost identical records.

3rds P9 W4 D1 L4 GF31 GA17 Pts 13
4ths P8 W3 D2 L3 GF19 GA16 Pts 14

The game will feature on the website photo gallery from Sunday and rumour has it that the video camera will also be there.

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:: North Down Ladies 1st XI narrowly lose against Civil Service in the Irish Trophy

By KHaslett
29/11/2011

The North Down ladies 1st XI hosted Civil Service in the Irish Trophy on Saturday and narrowly lost on penalty strokes after extra time.
The game proved to be close throughout with both teams working hard for the win. Civil Service opened the scoring from open play, but North Down bounced back quickly with a well worked goal at the other end of the pitch. Amy Benson dribbled into the circle to square a pass on her reverse to Bex Mitchell in the goal mouth. North Down then managed to defend their goal well with some good defensive work on short corners from Hannah McKee and Bex Mitchell. North Down again produced a good solid display of hockey throughout the game with good possession of the ball around the backs and into midfield. Laura Clarke produced some good passing into the midfield for Jenny Todd and Andrea Mockford to link up with the forwards.
The second half seen North Down command good possession and managed to win a few short corners. The second goal came from Andrea Mockford striking at goal and Kathryn Mullin stepping up on the rebound to fire the second goal into the net. North Down then managed to lose some of their tempo with Civil Service producing some physical challenges including their sweeper knocking the North Down captain off the ball. Civil Service then managed to exert some pressure in the last 15 minutes of the game with a number of short corners being well defended by North Down. However, Service managed to score the equaliser with 10 minutes to go from a strike at the top of the circle.
The remainder of the game saw North Down produce some good defending including some excellent challenges from Selina Lewis after taking a few knocks herself.
The game finished full time at 2 - 2, so the game then went into extra time with the golden goal rule. A number of exchanges at either end could have won it for both teams. North Down missed a golden opportunity with the 3 attackers having the opportunity to finish the game off, but just couldn’t get the ball over the line. Service was lucky to keep 11 players on the pitch when the sweeper again tripped Amy Benson after a clean break into the circle. Service also managed to narrowly miss a good chance at the end with the ball nipping past the back post.
The game then moved into penalty strokes were the team won the toss to go first. Unfortunately the North Down team came out at the wrong end with their first three goals been saved by the Civil Service keeper.
North Down will be looking forward to Civil Service coming back to Comber for the return leg in the league, which will prove to be another good game of hockey.
Farmview Player of the Match was Selina Lewis for a solid and gutsy display in the defence.

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:: WEAKENED LADIES FOURTHS LOSE AT HOME TO LURGAN

By Rachel Murray
28/11/2011

The ladies fourths played host to Lurgan fourths at Ards Leisure Centre on Saturday but with a number of players unavailable for various reasons it was always going to be a difficult game.

North Down started the match with 10 players and Lurgan used this to their full advantage. They played the ball well to each other and drew the North Down defence out. Their perfectly played balls gave them a 1-0 lead in the first half of the match. North Down didn't give up the fight and were so close to equalising from a shot from POM Vicky Gray which just went wide. The fourths couldn't make anything from the opportunities which came their way and eventually went 2-0 down when Lurgan scored from a penalty corner.

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:: AWAY LOSS FOR LADIES SECONDS AT BALLYCLARE

By Laura Campbell
28/11/2011

On Saturday North Down Ladies 2nds travelled away to meet their opponents Ballyclare 2nds going into the game knowing that Ballyclare held 2nd place in the league and expecting a challenging match.

Due to the absence of Captain Karen Jackson it took a moment or two for the seconds to get themselves organised and as a result in the first 10 minutes North Down weren’t quite in the game and being very quiet allowing Ballyclare to get the first goal of the match. This gave North Down a wakeup call and the defence began to communicate better. Player of the match Rachel Mornin took charge of her side cutting out any attacks coming near the circle with good work and help from sweeper Rebecca Walker. Rebecca Brown was on hand to help move the ball across the pitch to Karen Moore to begin to open up play. Unfortunately a lapse of concentration allowed Ballyclare to gain a second goal just before half time.

In the second half North Down got off to a better start to apply some pressure to the Ballyclare defense with Shannen White, Jane Alexander and Barbara Moles fighting hard up in front but Ballyclare held out. Ballyclare were very strong on the counter attack but with North Down’s midfielders of Laura Campbell, Alison Millar and Jenna Hoey working hard to get back to help the defence and some brilliant saves from keeper Linda Marshal the seconds were able to keep the second half scoreless.

Although this was a loss to North Down the young team proved to have a positive attitude thoughout the match and continued to work hard. Hopefully this attitude will help gain this team a lot more goals and wins for the remainder of the season.

Player of the Match Rachel Mornin.

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:: SECOND HALF PERFORMANCE SEALS MENS THIRDS WIN

By Sam Pyper
28/11/2011

The thirds welcomed Banbridge 4ths to the late slot at Comber Leisure Centre on Saturday. With the visitors home pitch ‘waterlogged’ and their 1st’s and 3rd’s games postponed it wasn’t difficult to spot a few extra in their 15 man strong squad. The first half proved that this was going to be tougher than expected and the visitors currently in a relegation position worked the thirds' defence on numerous occasions. North Down however braved the assault with Willie Gibson and Stuart Nicholson solid at the back.

It certainly wasn’t one way traffic with the hosts, in a confident mood, having their own fair share of possession. A Sam Pyper short corner seemingly going wide was deflected off a Bann player into the goal. The goal was initially awarded however Paul Johnston insisted that the decision be reversed as it was deemed to be above the back board and a hit out was given. At half time there was no score and the thirds needed to win more of the 50/50 balls to secure a foothold in the game.

The hosts did just that and with a much improved mentality and hunger in the second half pushed for the opener. It soon came when, with keeper beaten, Adam Tate’s flicked effort struck a Bann defender on the line. A stroke was awarded and after some debate as to who was on flick duty skipper Pyper stepped up and converted to put the hosts in front.

This was the break North Down needed and they quickly built on their lead when Andrew Shannon deflected a short corner strike past the Bann keeper. Confidence grew and the hosts kept the pressure on making the visitors backline nervy. A mistake in the area and a loose ball was left for the oncoming Johnston who calmly placed the ball into the corner. The flood gates had opened and if it hadn't been for a great number of saves from the Bann keeper the scoreline would have been much worse for the visitors.

North Down determined to keep a clean sheet had a goal line clearance from Nicholson who left plenty of skin tissue on the pitch but that was to be Bann’s last effort on goal. To round off the scoring, Pyper thumped a 50/50 ball from the edge of the area and Mark Shannon’s quick reaction and instinctive finishing volleyed into the roof of the net to make it 4-0.

A great positive performance from all. Thanks to Roger and Terry for umpiring.

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:: LEAGUE WOES CONTINUE FOR MEN'S FIRSTS

By Robin Mitchell
28/11/2011

In atrocious weather conditions Instonians defeated North down 4-0 in a Premier League game at Comber last Saturday. Having suffered late cry offs from Tom Donnan and Richard Cooper, North Down had to reorganise and play with a reshuffled midfield.

The first half saw Instonians have the majority of the ball but North Down were well organised and kept their shape making it difficult for the visitors to penetrate their defence. Inst though took the lead after 15 minutes as Michael Black was beaten out on the side line and as the winger advanced Andy Corry was drawn out of position and the ball was slipped to the unmarked Robinson who scored. Ten minutes before the interval Inst increased their lead from a well worked short corner when they quickly moved the ball around the circle presenting Irwin with a simple tap in at the far post.

The second half continued in the same vein although for a period North Down lost their composure and Inst should have taken advantage of some sloppy marking. They increased their lead with a soft goal on 40 minutes when a harmless ball was hit into the circle, the unlucky Frazer was unsighted and the ball fell to Irwin who was unmarked and he shot past Andy Coates. Coates then made some fine stops to keep the sharp Inst forwards at bay however they scored their fourth midway through the half and only poor finishing and the ever alert Coates ensured that no further goals were scored.

North Down’s only attacks on goal came in the closing stages of the game when firstly the ball broke to Gareth Bailie on the half way line but he lacked support as he moved in on the circle and then Richard McMillan created good space but Cleghorne made a timely tackle. North Down’s woes were worsened when skipper Steven McGimpsey had to leave the field with a nasty hamstring injury with minutes remaining on the clock.

We have now reached the half way stage in the scheduled Premier League fixtures and North Down now look forward to a visit this coming Saturday to who else? Instonians again!

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:: THE SATURDAY BIRTHDAY SPOT

By
26/11/2011

27th Janice Scott
29th Gareth McKeown
29th Naomi Dawson
2nd Claire Henderson

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:: SPORTS NUTRITION ADVICE

By Jim Patterson
26/11/2011

There's a new link, in the links section obviously, to a website giving advice on sports nutrition. Check it out.

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:: MEN'S THIRDS FRUITFUL TRIP TO DONEGAL

By Sam Pyper
25/11/2011

The men's thirds made the not so long trip, as the road networks are much improved over the years, trip to Raphoe on Saturday. With only 11 players and no umpire they expected a tough test however the opening 10 minutes showed signs of encouragement with North Down dominating play and creating chances. They soon opened the scoring with a deflection from Andrew Shannon and Adam Tate followed up with a second with an excellent finish. The thirds continued to press and Paul Revill smashed home a rebound to make it 3-0 at the break. With veteran Paul Johnston sweeping up at the back and Paul Revill and Stevie Dalzell controlling the midfield the thirds looked to be in control.

After the break the hosts, with some reinforcements, piled on the pressure and eventually converted one of many short corners. North Down however responded with a great counter attack and Shannon finished well to get his second and make it 4-1. Raphoe, still dominating, pushed and got one back to make it 4-2 however the thirds were determined not to let Raphoe back into the game pressed on and Tate’s deft touch put the game out of sight at 5-2. Pyper added a 6th roofing a loose ball after a goal mouth scramble.

Raphoe left only 3 at the back in an effort to improve the scoreline however the visitors' counter attacks proved too much and a save from Matthew Jordan was the first of five touches to the other end of the pitch via Johnson and Tate crossing to Pyper to get his second and completing an emphatic victory and 7-2 scoreline.

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:: FIH OLYMPIC QUALIFIER

By Jim Patterson
24/11/2011

The IHA has announced that UCD, Dublin will host an Olympic Qualifying Tournament from 10 - 18 March 2012.

Countries taking part (with their world rankings) are:
Korea (6)
Malaysia (14)
Ireland (17)
Russia (20)
Chile (24)
Ukraine (31)

The tournament winner gets a place at the 2012 London Olympics.

Tickets will be on sale in about 2 weeks. Watch this website for more information.

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:: WIN FOR LADIES THIRDS OVER SERVICE SECONDS

By Kathryn Rogers
21/11/2011

The ladies thirds entertained Civil Service seconds at Ards Leisure Centre last Saturday got off to a fighting start going for every 50/50 ball. North Down were determined to get an early lead and this was done so by left winger Jane Alexander. North Down were put under increasing pressure from the quite strong Civil Service forwards and they eventually then equalised. Just before half time the thirds were showing how determined they were with excellent play from Emma Johnston and Julie Fisher but time beat them to it and it was 1-1 all at half time.

The second half showed much determination from both sides with strong shots being saved by both goalkeepers. After numerous penalty corners winger Heather Kinnier gave North Down the lead with just minutes to spare. North Down kept up the strong defending right until the end in order to secure those winning points.

Player of the match- Emma Johnston.

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:: GOOD WIN FOR FIFTHS ON THE SHALE AT SAINTFIELD

By Bond ....................... Peter Bond!
21/11/2011

The men's fifths resumed their much interrupted league campaign with an excellent 3 - 1 away win at Saintfield on Saturday against an experienced home 2nd XI. On a bumpy uneven surface which was somewhat foreign to most of the young team used solely to the comforts of astro it was clear from the outset that use of their astro skills would see them through, and so it proved. In fact, before Stephen Campbell scored an excellent opener from the edge of the circle on 20 minutes the fifths should have been at least four goals ahead and were only let down by wayward finishing and an Arsenal like approach to wanting to walk the ball into the net. Stand in keeper Roger Graham was, for the most part, a vaguely interested spectator at one end as he viewed excellent performances from Sam Brown, Daniel Kerr and William Hastings as they skipped past challenges from their physically stronger opponents.

Andrew Haire seemed to cement the victory with a short corner strike midway through the second half but it was only then that the Saintfield team started to make inroads into the North Down defence and they eventually pulled a goal back with twelve minutes to go. The fifths withstood a period of pressure before Stephen Campbell put the issue beyond doubt with five minutes remaining with the goal of the game and possibly the goal of the month. Beating two defenders inside the 25 he made ground into the circle and scored with an unstoppable reverse shot which gave Ally Patterson in goals no chance, Stephen's two goals earning him the accolade of Man of the Match.

Thanks to Jimmy P for umpiring who was informed after the game by the home team that, "his eyes were painted on!".

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:: LADIES SECONDSCRUISE IT AGAINST LARNE

By Barbara Moles
21/11/2011

On Saturday North Down 2nd XI played Larne 2nds at Comber Leisure Centre. North Down started well and won a few penalty corners with one being converted by Karen Moore. They continued to attack with a well-placed ball played into the circle by Rebecca Brown which was put in the back of the net by Laura Campbell. North Down ended the first half with a penalty corner which led to a successful shot from Ali Millar at the top of the circle.

Larne came back at the beginning of the second half with 2 good goals to bring the score to 3-2. But the North Down defence stayed strong and they began attacking again with a goal from Barbara Moles to bring the final score to 4-2. Thanks to Keith Conway for umpiring. Player of the match was Rebecca Brown.

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:: NORTH DOWN LADIES 1ST XI DRAW AGAINST PORTADOWN

By KHASLETT
21/11/2011

The Ladies 1st XI travelled to Portadown on Saturday and achieved a 1-1 draw with the Portadown team.
North Down were disappointed to come away with only a point after a number of excellent chances to finish the game off. The first half provided North Down with the majority of possession and territory in the Portadown half of the pitch. A short corner was well saved by Portadown when Jenny Todd was unlucky not to convert. The hockey was excellent in periods from North Down with Hannah McKee linking well with Bex Mitchell down the right side of the pitch. Naomi Dawson then opened the scoring for North Down after twenty minutes into the game. Portadown produced a couple of rare opportunities in the first half with Adrienne Da Costa producing a couple of good intercepts. Selina Lewis and Lauren Brown produced another solid display in defence with some good passing.
The second half started well for North Down and then Portadown managed to play their way into the game. Portadown managed to score an equaliser with 15 minutes to go with a counter attack from their own half and tucked away at the far post.
Da Costa then took a nasty blow on the elbow after a brave tackle in the circle. The last ten minutes proved painful for the keeper, but kept going to the final whistle.
Kathryn Mullin then made a good run into the circle and struck an excellent shot, which produced a good save from the Portadown keeper. Amy Benson then made an excellent run down the right wing and produced a super cross to Bex Mitchell who was unlucky not to find the net.
The game was a story of missed opportunities for North Down who will need to more clinical in front of the net.
The girls have a local derby at home this week to Civil Service in the second round of the Irish Trophy. The game starts at 2:30pm at Comber Leisure Centre.
Player of the Match was Adrienne Da Costa for a brave performance and some excellent saves.

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:: TABLE QUIZ POSTPONED

By Jim Patterson
20/11/2011

The table quiz due to take place on 26 November has been POSTPONED until a suitable date in January. If you had a team planned, please contact them so that everyone knows.

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:: THE SATURDAY BIRTHDAY SPOT

By
19/11/2011

Celebrations this week for
19th Karen Jackson
21st Rachel Ewing
21st Robin Mitchell Fire risk at Moorfield due to quantity of candles on cake!

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:: LADIES SECONDS LOSE IN INTERMEDIATE CUP

By Karen Jackson
15/11/2011

On Saturday North Down seconds travelled away to Bangor for the First round of the Intermediate Cup.

Although both teams from the start seemed evenly matched, Bangor settled quickly into the game and attacking hard scored the first goal. North Down fought well with great defensive work by Karen Barker and sweeper Rebecca Walker.

North Down had more chances attacking goals in the second half with Shannen White working hard in the midfield. Despite three short corners the North Down side failed to convert a goal.

Lack of focus led Bangor scoring their second goal to win 2-0. A disappointing result to the seconds.

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:: THIRDS WIN AT HARLEQUINS (UNEDITED REPORT!)

By Sam Pyper
15/11/2011

ND dominate 10 mins playing exciting hockey
Quins convert short corner
M Shannon smashes home to equalise
Tate follows up rebound 2-1
Pyper strikes post McInnes gets rebound 3-1
Pyper misses from 3 yards
Nicholson slots home from top of area 4-1
Tate gets his second after some skillful dribbling 5-1
Half time
Pyper flicks home 6-1
Murray from tight angle 7-1
Pyper converts cross from A Shannon 8-1
Pyper strikes for hat-trick 9-1
M Shannon attempts something silly 2-1 with keeper
Great performance, should have been more

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:: THIRDS LADIES DRAW AT GROSVENOR THIRDS

By Kathryn Rodgers
15/11/2011

North Down got off to a better start than last week with our heads in the game right from the first whistle. North Down fought for every ball and put the Grosvenor defence under a lot of pressure especially when centre back Anne McBride made a great run up the centre of the pitch. After much fighting in the attacking circle North Down were awarded a penalty corner. Olivia Brown played to the advantage and took a great shot from the top of the circle and gave North Down the lead. The Grosvenor forwards broke through and equalised just before half time.

The North Down defence whre under great pressure with the opponents right wing making some very strong runs. Eventually they found a space and took the lead with a very good goal. JR got the next goal of the match after much more fighting for mentally corners in the opposition circle. The North Down forwards placed great pressure on Grosvenor after wining numerous penalty corners in a row.

Player of the match - Olivia Brown

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:: Ladies 1st XI draw 1-1 against Priorians

By KHaslett
15/11/2011

The ladies 1st XI travelled to Priorians in Londonderry at the weekend and finished the game with a disappointing 1-1 draw.
The North Down team started the game very well with early pressure on the Priorians team. The team managed to win a couple of early short corners with Jenny Todd unlucky to miss an early chance. Priorians then scored the first goal against the run of play with a quick break through the middle of the pitch and finishing the goal at the top of the circle. North Down reacted well with some well worked moves from Hannah McKee and Amy Benson which presented a couple of chances at the back post, but again the team failed to convert.
The second half was another good display of hockey from the North Down team with Andrea Mockford working hard in midfield and some good passing from Laura Clarke and Selina Lewis at the back. The umpire then gave a dubious decision for a penalty stroke with the North Down keeper falling on top of the ball. Adrienne Da Costa managed to pull off a fine save with her foot after diving the wrong way to keep the score at 1-0.
North Down finally managed to break through by scoring a goal from the break down of a short corner with Jenny Todd finishing it off. Unfortunately with five minutes to play, North Down could not manage to find a winner with some excellent saves from the Priorians keeper. Whilst the team could not find the goal it was certainly a good display of hockey even though the team were missing a number of players.
The North Down team will be heading to Portadown this weekend with a start at 2:30pm at Edenvilla Park.

Farmview Player of the Match was Jenny Todd for a solid display in midfield.

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:: LADIES FOURTHS DRAW WITH BALLYMONEY 3RDS

By Rachel Murray
14/11/2011

North Down 4xi took on Ballymoney in the league this week. Ballymoney were tight from the start and early on proved to be very keen opponents. They were quick on the break and got the game off to a bad start with an early goal. North Down knew they needed to stay tight on each and every player so the ballymoney wouldn't have the chance to break again. At half team a few changes were made to tighten the defence and put more experience up to win the ball. This proved to be the key as North Down came out strong and soon there hard work paid off when Vicky Gray equalised the score with her belter hit equalising the score. North Down's spirits were high, with excellent play and passing player of the match Heather Kinear soon found the net taking North Down into the lead. Ballymoney remind a very strong opponent constantly fighting against the North Down defence. Any slip ups were taking full advantage of and with 5 minutes left of the match Ballymoney scored a second goal.

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:: THE LATE SATURDAY BIRTHDAY SPOT

By
13/11/2011

12th Matthew McInnes
13th Beverley Brittain
15th Sam pyper
16th Melvyn Nicholls
18th Stephen Forrest
18th Johnny Burch

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:: NOTICE TO ALL NORTH DOWN CLUB UMPIRES

By Jim Patterson
12/11/2011

There will be a Development Meeting for all club (and official) umpires at Lisnagarvey on 23 November at 7.30 pm. All of our members who umpire for Club teams are invited to attend.

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:: Good Luck Sam!

By Peter Bond
11/11/2011

Everybody within the club wishes Sam Martin the best of luck in the Ulster Talant Development Squad goalkeeper trials this sunday!!

Go get 'em tiger!

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:: LADIES SECONDS DEFEAT AT HARLEQUINS

By Karen Jackson
10/11/2011

On Saturday, the ladies 2nd XI travelled to Lisnagarvey to play Belfast Harlequins 4XI. ND started the slower team with a change in the usual forward line having an effect on attacking play. Harlequins forced a goal to open up the scoreboard. The ND side battled hard to win the ball however Harlequins scored again to make the scoreline 2-0. A good run up the middle of the pitch by Ali Millar opened up a good pass to Barbara Moles who put the ball in the back of the net to reduce the goal deficit, 2-1.
At half time ND changed positions to play a 2-4-3 formation. ND came out fighting and the new formation confused the opposition for a good part of the second half. Rebecca Brown made some great play from the 4th midfielder position, allowing play to open up. Lisnagarvey won a short which led to a goal despite keeper Linda Marshall getting a touch on the ball giving the home side a 3-1 lead. North Down responded well and on the re-start quickly worked their way up the pitch. Good passing between the midfield and forwards allowed Barbara Moles to score goal number two. Despite hard work by the North Down side, especially great work and fight from centre-mid Ali Millar, ND went down a further 2 goals through Harlequins short corners. On each corner, keeper Linda got a touch on the ball but it wasn’t enough to keep the ball out of the net. Final score Belfast Harlequins 5-2 North Down.
Player of the match: Ali Millar

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:: North Down Ladies 1st XI lose against Victorians

By KHaslett
07/11/2011

The North Down Ladies 1st XI played host to Victorians in Comber on Saturday and lost the game 3-1.
The North Down team were missing a number of players for the Victorians game on Saturday, but it did not excuse their poor display of hockey in the first half of the game. The North Down team struggled to get into the first half of the game with the team allowing Victorians to play at their own tempo. North Down conceded a number of early short corners, which allowed Victorians to score the first goal of the game.
Victorians continued to dominate the first half with a number of good saves from the North Down keeper Adrienne Da Costa. Victorians then extended their lead to 2-0 before the end of the first half.
The second half was a large improvement from the North Down team with alot of good chances in front of the Victorians net. Amy Benson managed a couple of good breaks through the Victorians defence with a one on one with the goalkeeper, but unfortunately couldn't convert. North Down also won a number of short corners and were unlucky not to convert the first two corners with well worked moves. North Down managed to close the gap with an excellent solo effort from Charlotte McKee to make the scoreline 2-1.
However, after North Down holding most of the territory in the second half, Victorians managed to close the game out by scoring their third goal to finish the game at 3-1. Whilst the work rate was much better in the second half, the team will have to learn to play good hockey for the full seventy minutes of the game.
The ladies team will now travel to Priorians in Londonderry on Saturday to try and get their league campaign back on track.
Farmview Player of the Match is Adrienne Da Costa for some excellent saves during the game.

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:: LADIES THIRDS LOSE AT HOME TO BANBRIDGE 2NDS

By Kathryn Rogers
06/11/2011

On Saturday North Down Ladies 3rds met their opponents Banbridge 2nds at Ards Leisure centre. In the first 20 minutes North Down weren’t quite in the game and Banbridge got the first goal of the match. In the last ten minutes of the first half North Down heads were up with excellent work in the middle of the pitch from Julie Fisher and the forwards applying great pressure to the Banbridge defense. North Downs first goal came from a penalty corner from Jo Irwin.

In the second half North Down got off to a great start to apply excellent pressure to the defense again but Banbridge broke through and scored their second goal of the match from a penalty corner. North Down fought again and scored another goal from a penalty corner this time from Marion Millar. In the very last few minutes of the game Banbridge got their third goal of the match. North Down tried their best to try and end the game in a draw but the clock beat them to it. Player of the Match – Anne McBride

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:: YET MORE LOST PROPERTY

By R F Mitchell
06/11/2011

A Kookaburra stick was left behind in the changing rooms at The Green on Saturday. It is now with Willie Reid. It will not be used until reclaimed!

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:: THE SATURDAY BIRTHDAY SPOT

By
05/11/2011

Celebrations this week for:
8th Karen Moore
9th Mark Shannon
10th Peter Devlin
11th Jordan Linter

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:: IS YOUR CLUB MEMBER PROFILE UP TO DATE?

By
05/11/2011

The answer is NO!
Login and re-register your profile.
If you haven't done this before, click 'Register' and follow the simple instructions

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:: LADIES FOURTHS LOSE AWAY TO GREENISLAND

By Rachel Murray
05/11/2011

The ladies fourths were beaten 2-0 by Greenisland seconds on Wednesday night!
Greenisland were a very experienced skillful team which was apparent from early on when they scored their first goal. The fourths responded well with a run up from sweeper and Player of the Match Vicky Gray and North Down had an opportunity at goal but couldn't equalise. Greenisland were very quick on the break and any mistakes were greatly punished which is how they scored their second goal.
North Down came out like a new team in the second half but just couldn't get past the Greenisland defense.

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:: WHITE SMOKE - HABEMUS LUDUM

By
03/11/2011

The first eleven men's game will be against Mossley at 2.30 pm at Comber Leisure Centre.

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:: MENS FIRST ELEVEN GAME IN DOUBT THIS SATURDAY

By Jim Patterson
02/11/2011

There are at present three options for the men's firsts this Saturday.

1 Home game with Harlequins as per UHU website

2 Home game with Mossley as per UHU

3 Free date as per UHU original fixture list.

We await developments! Watch this website for the latest information.

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:: LADIES FOURTHS OUT OF JUNIOR CUP

By Rachel Murray
01/11/2011

The ladies fourths took on NICS seconds in the first round of the Junior Cup and knew they had to put in a lot of hard work in this match. They got off to a very unlucky start when NICS took the ball out of the back line, North Down appealed and stopped playing while NICS scored. Despite protests NICS were given the goal and with feelings running high North Down needed to settle back into their play. With every North Down player putting in 100% effort, they were let down again when a penalty corner was given. NICS player had a great hit and slotted it past the keeper making it 2 - 0 to Civil Service at half time.

After an inspiring team talk we started in the second half full of gusto!! Excellent play between players and that of our joint players of the matches Emma Patton and Jenny Ashfield saw North Down score to take the game to 2-1 but despite last minute attempts and some dubious umpiring decisions the fourths couldn't find the equaliser and are therefore out of the cup!!

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:: October Youth Round up!

By Peter Bond
30/10/2011

October saw a busy month for the youth section of the hockey club.

On the 16th of October the Girls Under 13's secured two excellent draws against Ards and Pegasus at Deremore park.

While the Under 15 girls took on Ards on the 23rd at CIYMS in what could only be described as torrential rain! The game eventually got underway and the girls made short work of racing into a 3-0 lead. Unfortunately the weather only got worse, and the game had to be abandoned.

The boys Section also saw a full day of fixtures on the 23rd at Elner park. The boys under 13's took on Garvey A & B as well as Instonians A & B. The games took on a round robin format each lasting 15 minutes.

An encouraging performances from the boy lead to Victory over Lisnagarvey B and Instonains B.

The Under 15's played two fixtures on the 23rd. Firstly against Linsnagarvey and then against Instonians.

In the first match Lisnagarvey proved too hot to handle resulting in a comprehensive victory for the away side.

But with an inspirational team talk from coach Paul Johnston - The boys responded with a fine 1-0 victory against Instonians.

Well done to all the youth section this month. - More fixtures are to follow in November for all sections including the Under 11's!

Thank you to everybody who came down to support the teams. Everybody at North Down Hockey club really appreciates it!

Peter Bond
Club Development officer.

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:: THE SATURDAY BIRTHDAY SPOT

By
29/10/2011

29th David Burch
31st Jane Alexander
31st Peter Shields
2nd Barbara Moles

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:: STEPHEN MAGEE OFF TO SINGAPORE

By Jim Patterson
26/10/2011

Best wishes to Stephen Magee who has left for Singapore to represent Ireland in the 2011 Masters Hockey Classic. Stephen will play in the ten team Over 40s section.

The tournament starts on 28 October and runs until 5 November.

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:: HOME DEFEAT FOR MENS THIRDS

By Sam Pyper
26/10/2011

Newry this week for ND 3s who had no more than 3 players from last season featuring in the team. With 5 regulars missing, this gave an opportunity for Burch and Simpson to impress and that they did. The youth in addition to McInness and Kerr from the previous week showed they were more than up for the challenge. The game started brightly with ND immediate y attacking with great flowing hockey. This was soon brought to an abrupt end as a Newry defender coaxed Tate in on the wrong side and followed through sidelining the youngster after only 5 minutes. To Tate’s credit, with his team down to 10 men, he ran it off quickly and rejoined the game. It was a ruthless affair following this with hard physical challenges and a lot ill-discipline from the visiting side. The constant barraging of the home umpire led to 2 yellow cards over the course of the game, however this did not help ND and Newry looking dangerous upfront, where soon ahead after some poor defensive work. One soon became two before half time when a flick was awarded for feet on the line. Although Brown guessed right and got a touch he couldn’t keep the ball from crossing the line.

ND came out in the second half a different side and quickly got back into the side with some quick thinking from skipper Pyper. A free just inside the 25 was quickly brought outside and smashed into the area for Kerr to deflect into the top corner. NDs spirits were lifted and they stepped it up a gear starting to play some hockey! The pressure continued and ND came close to an equaliser through a Beaney short corner and an effort from Pyper who’s shot hit the post and drifted across goal. No luck though and the 3s crashed to another defeat.

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:: 5xi defeat - all good teams lose 6-1 sometimes

By Peter Bond
24/10/2011

A depleted 5xi travelled to Ballymena on Saturday who showed why they were early league leaders winning the games easily 6-1.

A much changed 5xi were without regulars, Donaldson, Graham, Rutherford, Devlin and Campbell. Adding to the fact that the youth of Hunter, Kerr, McInnes and McSherry have all impressed and been retained by higher teams lead to debuts from Reece Glover in goals and Mark Vincent stepping up from the under 15's. Frantic phone calls at 8pm on the Friday night acquired the services of Rowan Conway and got Colin McMullan out of retirement for one last hurrah.

A new look 5xi therefore took the field where their inexperience of playing together showed straight away. Within the first 15 minutes Ballymena had three goals, one for each foray into the North Down circle in what looked to be one of those days! Ballymena looked to be enjoying it as they looked to be on for a cricket score!

However, at 3-0 down somewhere North Down clicked, with Jonny Davidson looking commanding at the back, Sam Brown making good movement down the right, Rowan Conway seeming impassable in midfield and Ben Willis twisting an turning defenders with ease. North Down rose to the challenge and started to give Ballymena a game. The glimmer of hope came when north Down were awarded a free on halfway. Willis took it quickly and passed forward to Conway. Conway advanced to the oppositions 25 before slipping it through to McGreevy inside the circle who played it square round the keeper for a simple tap in from Bond.

The second half however took the same shape as the first half and as the game went on North Down piled forward. Tired legs meaning holes appeared in Midfield and Ballymena were regularly presented with 2 on 1 situations as they dominated.

Ballymena converted a further 3 times when really they could have had more.

Man of the Match: Their guy wearing number 12.

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:: MENS FIRSTS OUTPLAYED AT GARVEY

By Robin F Mitchell
24/10/2011

North Downs woes continued at Hillsborough last Saturday when they were comprehensively beaten 10-0 by Garvey at Hillsborough.

Coach Peter Whyte has a very small squad available to him and when Stephen Magee and Stephen Forrest cried off Whyte knew he had a damage limitation job ahead. The situation worsened when Stuart McCormick and Gareth Bailie had to withdraw with recurring injuries.

North down got off to the worst possible start in the opening minute when Steven McGimpsey played a poor square pass which was cut out and Garvey took the lead. Poor tackling allowed Raphael to waltz past four players before slamming the ball past Andy Coates after 6 minutes and two further goals from short corners in the 16th and 19th minutes allowed Garvey to take a comfortable lead. Further proof that it was not to be North Down’s day came when a harmless cross was deflected past Coates by one of his own defenders. Three goals in the last five minutes of the half, the first from a corner, the second from a rasping reverse stick shot and the third after a slick passing movement split open the defence to leave the score 8-0 at half time.

North Down came out in the second period determined to put up an improved performance. They protected their goal for 15 minutes holding the ball better and abandoning the policy of the impossible pass which had cost them dearly in the first period. Garvey increased their lead midway through the half when a cross was hammered home and they completed the scoring with a corner with 10 minutes remaining. In the final minutes Coates made a fine save from ex North Down player Andy Forrest.

This Saturday’s game is against Civil Service at Comber and North Down must return to their simple passing game and learn to retain possession as their high risk passing is causing all sorts of problems and more importantly costing vital points.

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:: THE SATURDAY BIRTHDAY SPOT

By
22/10/2011

22nd Christine Mitchell
23rd June Carr
25th Peter Whyte
28th David Frazer

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:: Subs Reminder

By Gavin Wilson
21/10/2011

This is just a reminder to all members yet to pay their subs. To avoid paying an additional Ł20, subs will need to be received by next weekend.

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:: Health and Saftey update

By Peter Bond
19/10/2011

For us to comply with Health and safety policy, we would like to ask all parents/guardians when picking up their children from Youth training, to come down to pick them up from the pitch. NO CHILDREN WILL BE ALLOWED TO LEAVE THE PITCH UNATTENDED.

thank you for your co-operation.

Peter Bond

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:: GIRLS INTERPROS THIS WEEKEND

By J Patterson
18/10/2011

No ladies fixtures this weekend due to the girls Under 16 and Under 18 Interprovincials at Stormont. The Ulster games are:
Under 16s
Saturday
12.30 pm V Munster
3.30 pm V Connacht

Sunday
11.00 am V South East
2.00 pm V Leinster

Under 18s
Saturday
9.30 am V Connacht
2.00 pm V Munster

Sunday
12.30 pm V South East
3.30 pm V Leinster
So if you're not supporting our mens teams or shopping why not go along and support Ulster?

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:: EXCELLENT WIN FOR LADIES THIRDS AT RANDALSTOWN

By Julie Fisher
18/10/2011

Last Saturday North Down Ladies 3rds travelled to the Antrim Forum to play Randalstown 4ths.

From the outset North Down knew it was going to be a tough match. The first 15 minutes saw the visitors on the back foot but great defensive play from the back four – Rebecca, Kathryn, Judith and Sarah and excellent ‘out of her skin’ saves from Linda in goals stopped Randalstown from converting. North Down then began to settle and push forward – creating their own opportunities and testing the home teams defence which resulted in the first goal of the match. Jo Irwin rocketed a perfectly placed ball into the circle, which was intercepted by Julie Fisher who took a first time sweep and placed it neatly into the net. A somewhat shocked Randalstown who were now a goal down against the run of play then tried in vain to equalise but at half time the score remained unchanged.

After catching their breath at the break from what was a fast first period of play the visitors were determined to hold their lead. With an extra set of legs the front line who consisted of Amy Jones, Gillian Neill, Jane Alexander and Olivia Brown rotated and the experienced mid field trio of Jo, Kathy and Julie fed the balls up front and were rewarded by winning penalty corners. It was from one of these that goal number two came for North Down. A well hit ball out from Jane Alexander to Julie Fisher was squared to Jo Irwin and then passed back to Julie again who took it on the reverse and placed it in the net. Now two goals up and their confidence high the visitors raised their game and played some super passing hockey. Great linking play in midfield and tireless work from the forward line resulted in North Downs third goal. Julie Fisher made a break up the pitch into the circle and lobed the ball past the defender and goalie into the net for her hat trick. Full time score 3-0 to North Down. This was the thirds first win of the season and resulted from an excellent all round team performance – everyone played their socks off! Well done girls – a great confidence booster! Player of the match went to Judith Orr who worked like a demon at centre back. Many thanks to Roger Neild for doing a great umpiring job and who we would be lost without!

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:: MENS THIRDS BREAK DUCK!!

By Sam Pyper
18/10/2011

The thirds travelled to Armagh seconds on Saturday with a new look side drafting in some young talent due to injuries up the club and some late cryoffs. The addition of Daniel Kerr, Chris McSherry and Matthew McInnes illustrated the club’s strength in depth as they fitted right in showing confidence on the ball and positionally sound.

North Down started well looking to get their first points of the season passing the ball well and dominating possession with the experience of Phil Dorian, whose appearance was short lived due to injury, controlling the backline. Mark Shannon opened the scoring with a powerful shot from a wide angle and Daniel Lavery followed up on a rebound to make it 2-0 to the visitors at half time. More of the same was the half time message and the thirds continued to pressure the Armagh goal with Adam Tate and Shannon causing problems on the wings. Tate soon got on the score sheet finishing off another rebound from the top of the area and Shannon completed a great hat-trick with a close finish and a goal line scramble. It could have been more with chances missed from Pyper who also made a few wrong decisions in 2 on 1 situations. Something to build on for next week!
Man Of The Match: Mark Shannon

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:: Youth Fixtures Announced

By Peter Bond
18/10/2011

The boys youth programme gets underway this Sunday (23rd) with the following fixtures.

North Down U13's - 14:00 - 15:15
North Down U15's - 15:30 - 18:00

Games will be played against Instonians and Garvey!

All Mum's, Dad's and club members are welcome come come cheer the boys on!

i'm even investigating the posibility of getting a few tea's and coffee on the go to keep us warm!

Good luck boys!

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:: LADIES FOURTHS GOALLESS WITH COOKSTOWN 2NDS

By Rachel Murray
17/10/2011

The ladies fourths held Cookstown seconds to a 0-0 draw last Saturday at Ards Leisure Centre. With Cookstown running late and running onto the pitch North Down started the game off well by a goal by Emma Johnston disallowed.

Both teams had good chances but couldn't put it past the keepers. North Down never stopped fighting and Player of the Match Heather Kinnier lead most of the attack.

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:: EIGHT GOALS FOR LADIES SECONDS AT PRIORIANS

By Rebecca Walker
17/10/2011

The ladies 2nd XI travelled to Priorians 2nds last Saturday for their fourth match in Junior League Three achieving an excellent result of 8-2. The North Down side knew that Priorians would be a tough proposition after such a lengthy journey.

North Down started the match very well which was evident through the great linking play between the forwards, Barbara Moles and Shannon White, quickly resulting in a penalty corner. The majority of the play was in in the Priorians circle for the first 10 minutes. A goal mouth scramble eventually led to the Comber side's first goal by Charlotte McKee. The penalty corners kept coming for North Down with excellent play in the opposition's circle. Ali Millar took a straight strike from the top of the circle which went beautifully into the left hand corner. The third goal was taken by Barbara Moles who ran onto a pass from Jenna Hoey.

At half-time North Down were very confident being 3-0 up but during the first five minutes of the second half Priorians scored two goals, a reality check that the game wasn't won already. These two goals shook up the North Down side and the play began to pick up again. Barbara Moles scored the fourth by some excellent passing between Karen Moore and Laura Campbell leaving the opposition too far away from the goals to do anything about it. Fifteen minutes into the second half play was stopped when Charlotte McKee and a Priorians forward collided hitting heads. This allowed the team to regroup and discuss tactics. As the match restarted the goals were coming thick and fast with Shannon White scoring followed quickly by Barabara Moles and then Laura Campbell. The final goal was scored just before the whistle by Ali Millar. This was definitely the best match the team has played this season and a well deserved victory. Player of the match was Barbara Moles for a fantastic game all round and a hat trick.

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:: DISAPPOINTING RESULT FOR MENS FIRSTS AT HARLEQUINS

By Robin Mitchell
17/10/2011

The 1st XI travelled to Deramore last Saturday to play Belfast Harlequins in a Premier League fixture which was of vital importance as both sides are likely to feature in the relegation stakes at the end of the season. Harlequins ran out winners by 1-0 but North Down were left wondering how they did not get something from the game as, particularly in the second half they created a number of simple chances but were unable to convert any.

With overhead conditions unpleasant, play in the first period was scrappy with neither side able to take control. North Down suffered an early setback when Richard Willis was the recipient of a robust tackle which meant he could play no further part in the game. Goal mouth incidents were few and far between and neither keeper was brought into the action.

The second half was only minutes old when Gareth Bailie and Stephen Forrest found themselves clear with only the keeper to beat. Forrest played the ball to Bailie but somehow the keeper smothered his effort. At the other end Harlequins took the lead when they scored from a short corner, the ball being slipped to Neil Anderson running in at the far post. From a quick break North Down found themselves clear of the Harlequins defence but Bailie’s effort was deflected over the bar. Andy Coates was on his game as he made two fine saves to keep his side in the game. With time running out and North Down pushing for the equaliser the Harlequin’s defence conceded a number of corners but their keeper made some fine saves. Lack of composure saw a fresh air shot at the top of the circle and then a wild swing hit the side netting when it seemed easier to score. Ross Linter was unlucky to receive a yellow card for a block but unfortunately lack of consistency from the umpire allowed Harlequins to keep 11 players on the pitch despite some crude tackles.

North Down were disappointed not to have got a more positive result despite a much improved performance albeit against lesser opposition than in recent games.

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:: GOALKEEPER SMOCKS

By ADC
16/10/2011

I am looking at the possibility at ordering smocks from Kukri so that the goalies can get in on the new kit buzz.

The smocks will be approximately Ł33 and I am open to suggestions on design, colour, etc. They will be numbered and have the club crest, and named if you want. I hope to be able to get samples to try on for size.

I will need a minimum order of 10. If you are a junior or senior keeper in the mens or ladies club and are interested, please get in touch, adrienne.dacosta@gmail.com or 07740443390.

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:: THE SATURDAY BIRTHDAY SPOT

By
15/10/2011

16th Mark Simpson
16th Stuart McCormick
19th Adrienne Da Costa
20th Tom Donnan
20th Julie Fisher

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:: LADIES 1st XI STAY TOP OF THE LEAGUE WITH A WIN OVER KNOCK

By KHaslett
15/10/2011

The Ladies 1st XI hosted Knock at Comber today and produced another convincing 3-1 win. North Down started slow in the first ten minutes, but held most of the possession. After ten minutes, the girls started to play good hockey with Jenny Todd providing another good performance in the midfield. The girls started to stretch the Knock team with plenty of pace in the forward line.
Amy Benson opened the scoring by finishing a rebound from a short corner. The North Down team then pushed on towards half time with Andrea Mockford and Hannah McKee working hard in midfield to maintain possession. The second goal came just before half time with Amy Benson converting again at the back post to give North Down a good lead going into the second half.
North Down controlled the hockey in the second half with a number of opportunities not being converted. Amy Benson was unlucky not to get her hatrick with the Knock goalkeeper saving well from a one on one. Pamela Gibson produced a solid performance in defense with good passing between the midfield and forward lines.
The best goal of the game came from the captain Bex Mitchell showing good pace down the right hand side to set-up Naomi Dawson in the circle for a well worked goal.
North Down switched off for the last 5 minutes with Knock converting a short corner before the final whistle. North Down should be pleased with this performance and can enjoy being top of the table until their next game against Greenisland on Saturday 29th October in Carrickfergus.
Farmview Player of the Match was Amy Benson for some great goals and hard work ethic for the whole game.

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:: Out with the Old in with the new!

By Peter Bond
13/10/2011

The New Kit has arrived!!! I think that everybody will agree that from top to toe it looks smart!

But... you may be wondering what to do with your old shirt... Some of you may be wondering what to do with your old, old shirt... Well...

To accompany our charity awareness day/ exhibition day, we have been in touch with a charity in Cookstown who will take our old kit and an Exhibition day shirts that you have lying around the house, and package them off to Africa!!!

As an added bonus, for every KG of shirts donated, there will be a subsequent donation to the Northern Ireland Cancer Fund for Children!!!

WOW!!! Two donations in one!!!

So what are you waiting for men... Place an order for a new shirt with Mr sheilds... Pick up you new shirt... hand you old one to me... or your team captain...

then feel good about yourself, that you have done something for the greater good!

I'm sure you'll agree they are two worthy causes!

Don't delay, donate your shirt today!

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:: LADIES 1st X1 WIN AGAINST OMAGH

By KHaslett
10/10/2011

The Ladies 1st XI travelled to Omagh on Saturday for the second match in the Senior One League with a convincing 2-0 win.
The ladies hard work at training is starting to pay off with a superior performance on Saturday against a traditionally difficult Omagh side. The possession and territory for the North Down team was dominant as a number of good chances were provided in the first twenty minutes of the game. Good passing moves were linked together down both the left and right wings with Amy Benson and Zara Miller.
The midfield provided another solid performance with Jenny Todd continuing her good form and Andrea Mockford working hard to move the ball.
The first goal came from a well worked move down the right hand side with Naomi Dawson finishing it off in front of goal.
The North Down side came under a bit of pressure at the end of the first half, but the defense showed good composure to clear their lines.
The second half started well for the North Down team with Lauren Brown performing well in the centre of defense and providing a solid platform for the team to go forward. The captain Bex Mitchell showed good skills to hold the ball up when required and winning a number of short corners for the team.
The second goal was taken well by Andrea Mockford from open play with great movment inside the circle and finished well past the Omagh keeper.
The North Down team are sitting clear at the top of the league after a couple of games, which is well deserved after twelve months of hard work at training.
The ladies 1st XI are playing Knock at home this weekend with the match starting at 2:30 in Comber Leisure Centre.
Farmview Player of the Match is Lauren Brown for a solid performance in defense

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:: LADIES SECONDS DRAW WITH DROMORE

By Karen Barker
10/10/2011

Saturday saw North Down II host Dromore III at Comber Leisure Centre. Due to injury and ailment the players used their versatility to slot into different positions. From the whistle it was obvious Dromore were going to be good contenders. North Down used the speed of Barbara Moles and Shannon White who linked very well toward the Dromore goals, the Dromore defese looked stunned at the pace on a number of occasions. A counter attack movement from defense found the ball with Shannon White who, with ease, glided by a number of Dromore players from just over the half way line, to find herself with a great shooting opportunity, she made no mistake, 1-0 North Down.
Dromore quickly turned up the pressure and found themseves with a couple of penalty corners. Unfortunately one of these corners saw the ball hitting the last defender on the line, result, penalty stroke, Dromore equalised. The remainder of the 1st half saw attacking play by both teams, with Nikki ferris making an outstanding save allowing Vicky Gray to clear the ball to safety.

The second half started with a penaly corner to Dromore, again Nikki Ferris stopped anything coming to her. Barbara Moles made good contribution in defense, releasing the ball to Jenna Hoey who drilled a great cross into the circle which came off the post, unfortunately North Down were anable to pounce on the ball and the ball drifted off the back line. Dromore created another penalty corner, but again the North Down defense were well able for it.
During Dromore hit outs from the circle North Down applied a good block, on one occasion Rachel Murray stopped the ball and quickly passing the Barbara Moles who got a shot on target. North Down had good periods of pressure during the second half and where unfortunate not to score, with Laura Campbell playing her part in the centre mid in both atack and defense. Toward the end of the second half Dromore turned their pressure into penalty corners which were excellently defended by the two Rebeccas, Brown and Walker. The final minutes of the game ended with great counter attack play by Jenna Hoey, Rachel Mornin getting the ball to Barbara Moles and Shannon White. This lead to three North Down penalty corners which narrowly missed getting the winnin goal. Final Score 1-1. Player of the match Shannon White. Thank you to umpires Jim Patterson, Ryan Galway, Darren Rodgers and Peter Bond!

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:: Refuel after the match!

By Peter Bond
10/10/2011

Hungry and thirsty after the game? Fancy discussing the match with your fellow club members... Or just fancy a celebratory drink?

Well come to the club house between 3:30pm - 6pm!

For just Ł5 you can get hot food & a drink* !!!

*- food will be a special of the day, which will vary, drinks include, a pint of tennants, alco-pop(including west coast cooler) or soft drink of your choice.

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:: irish cup exit

By robin mitchell
10/10/2011

North Down were comprehensively beaten in the first round of the Irish Cup by a workman like Instonians team.The pitch at Shaws Bridge was slippery but North Down had no answer to the pacy Inst team going down 1-9
North Down again were slow out of the blocks and were 3 goals in arrears after 15 minutes all goals coming from open play.They added a fourth from a corner and then just before halftime added number 5.
NorthDown opened the second period in a more positive mood and Bailie reduced the arrears after a short corner.Inst scored number 6 when a cross from the left was deflected home in a rather lucky fashion.North Down worked a variation at a corner and Linter had a fine shot well saved..Willis rounded the keeper after a quick break out of defence but he shot wide..Inst scored 3 late goals as they exposed poor North Down defending.North Down lost the unlucky Black with an ankle injury in the second period
North Down travel to Harlequins in their second league game and will have to up their performance if they are to get a result which will be of vital importance to both teams

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:: THE SATURDAY BIRTHDAY SPOT

By
08/10/2011

This week's birthday boys:-
8th Willie Gibson
10th Mark Forrest
12th Adam Tate

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:: TWO MORE LEVEL ONE COACHES

By Peter Bond
06/10/2011

Well done to Laura Campbell and Rachel Murray who have now completed their Level One Coaching qualifications!

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:: ULSTER UNDER 16 HONOURS

By Peter Whyte
05/10/2011

Congratulations to Rowan Poots and Peter McKibben who have been selected onto the Ulster Under 16 squad.

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:: PARENTING NI - BRAIN & BRAWN SPORTS QUIZ

By Jim Patterson
04/10/2011

The charity Parenting NI are running a 'Brain and Brawn Sports Quiz' for sports clubs at the Kings Head on 19 October, 7.30 pm for 8.00 pm. Ł10 per player, max 6 per team. A variety of prizes, free drink on arrival etc.

Anyone interested in entering a team contact me for the entry form.

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:: MENS THIRDS UNLUCKY AT STORMONT

By Sam Pyper
03/10/2011

The thirds kicked off their season in Junior 3 with a tough away fixture against Civil Service thirds last Friday night. Having played their neighbours twice in the pre season, in friendly encounters, North Down knew it would be a testing match.

They started the brighter of the two sides and played some great flowing hockey creating chances for Mark Shannon and Melvyn Nichols early on. A well worked short corner resulted in a neat deflection from substitute Andrew Shannon and the visitors were one up and in control going into half time. The thirds looked to improve on possession in the second half with the experience of Peter Shields and Martin Moreland in midfield controlling the play and although they initially looked comfortable they started to lose their grip on the game giving away possession too many times and putting unnecessary pressure on their defence. It seemed only a matter of time before the hosts would get back in the game and some umpiring decisions not going the third’s way did not help.

The inevitable happened on 50 minutes and Service had equalised. They then continued to pressure the visitors’ defence as the Comber side let some umpiring decisions affect their play and their shape. With 10 minutes to go Civil Service scored another with a well driven shot past an unsighted Rodgers. North Down reverted to pushing higher up the field leaving three at the back and almost got the equaliser when Ryan Galway picked out a great pass to find Shields in front of goal but his first time shot was parried away to safety. When full time came there was a sigh of relief from the host side who admittedly knew they had picked up a generous 3 points.

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:: MENS FIRSTS START LEAGUE WITH LOSS AT KILKEEL

By R F Mitchell
03/10/2011

North Down travelled to Kilkeel last Saturday for their opening Premier League fixture. Having lost four players from last season, with Simon Watt still unavailable and Tom Donnan out with a long term back injury, the side was further weakened by the late withdrawals of Richard Willis and Stuart McCormick.

When the teams arrived the pitch was flooded but the rain eased and the umpires declared the pitch playable only after some hard clearance work by the home ground staff.

As has happened in every game so far this season North Down conceded an early goal. Poor tackling allowed the centre forward into the circle where he was fouled and from the resulting corner the ball was struck home. Kilkeel were catching North Down on the break and their pacy front players were causing havoc. The winger added the second after good set up provided him with a simple tap in at the far post. The third followed shortly afterwards when the visitors’ defence was caught in possession and the ball smashed past Andy Coates. Just before halftime North Down got a lifeline. Andrew McKibben was blocked in the circle and a penalty corner was awarded. David Shepherd’s effort was saved but Andy Corry was on hand to push home the rebound.

Early in the second period Coates had to make a fine save but was beaten shortly afterwards when again from a quick break the North Down defence was outpaced and another simple tap in ensued. Kilkeel then hit the post and Coates again made a fine clearance at the top of the circle. Ross Linter made a fine run and was unlucky not to win a corner after being blatantly obstructed inside the 25.

The umpires failed to penalise the deliberate breaking down of play and tempers became flared with a player from each side getting their marching orders. North Down appeared to reduce the arrears when Gareth Bailie had the ball in the net following a corner but the umpire at the far end spotted an infringement and the goal was disallowed. To add insult to injury, Kilkeel broke to the other end and scored their fifth in a similar vein to their earlier goals. Just before the end Cooper and McKibben combined but McKibben’s shot was blocked and the danger cleared.

North Down have an early break from the Premier League this Saturday when they pay a 1 pm visit to Instonians for the first round of the Irish Senior Cup.

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:: MENS FIFTHS SO CLOSE AT GARVEY

By Ryan Donaldson
03/10/2011

On Friday night North Down 5ths travelled to Lisnagarvey on a very wet night where they lost 2-1 to a very strong Lisnagarvey 7ths side. From the start of the match Garvey played possession hockey, which made it tough for North Down to create many chances and get a good hold of the game. Midway through the first half Garvey’s pressure resulted in the first goal of the match. North Down playing from the back were caught in possession and the ball was put into the circle from the right side for the Garvey forward to slip it into the net.
Half time came and North Down regrouped and for the first 10 minutes of the second half they were the better team. Five minutes into the second half North Down got a short corner. The ball came out to Peter Devlin who took the ball into the circle and then slipped the ball left for Connor Millar to fire into the back of net to make it 1-1. The second half was a closer affair but slowly Garvey got back into the game, mostly helped by the vast number, at least ten, of short corners they received. But each time the defence held strong and Chris McSherry in particular made some fantastic saves to keep the scores level.. With full time approaching it looked as if both teams would share the points. That was until two minutes from time when Garvey took the ball down the left, the ball was fired across the circle and a Garvey stick got a touch to send the ball into the net and cruelly deny North Down at least a point.
It was a harsh result for the boys but hopefully next week they can get the first points of the season, and with the eagerly awaited return of Captain Bond the team will be hoping for 3 points!

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:: LADIES 1st XI WIN AGAINST CIVIL SERVICE

By KHaslett
02/10/2011

The ladies 1st XI travelled to Civil Service in their first Senior One league game of the season and won 2-1, despite missing a number of players. The poor weather conditions set the tone for the match, which proved to be a game of attrition against a physical Civil Service team. The North Down team started the game well with a number of good passing moves in the defence and midfield. North Down managed to win a couple of early short corners, but failed to convert against a well organised Service defence.
Civil Service managed to open the scoring after 20minutes with a soft goal after a number of missed tackles from the North Down defenders. However, North Down managed to keep playing good hockey up to the break at half time.
The second half proved to be a different game for the North Down team. A number of good runs from Hannah McKee and the captain Bex Mitchell provided the team with some good go forward ball and created some excellent chances. The poor tackling from the Civil Service team finally caught up with them with one of their players being sin binned for ten minutes. North Down began to capitalise on the possession with a well worked passing move between Naomi Dawson and Charlotte McKee who scored her first goal for the 1st XI team.
The pressure continued to mount on the Civil Service with a number of short corners being won for North Down and Amy Benson managing to convert a well worked move. The poor discipline from the Civil Service team continued with a second service player being sin binned.
The Civil Service team started to impose more pressure on the North Down circle in the last ten minutes of the game. A number of good tackles were required from Lauren Brown and Selina Lewis.
The game finished with North Down deserving the win after playing the better hockey across the pitch.
The next league game is Omagh away on Saturday 8th October.
Farmview Player of the Match was Hannah McKee for a solid performance with good attacking runs.

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:: THE SATURDAY BIRTHDAY SPOT

By
01/10/2011

2nd Krista Blanchflower
5th Susan Johnston
6th Ashleigh Gorman

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:: STOCK OF NEW KUKRI PLAYING SHIRTS

By Jim Patterson
27/09/2011

The new Kukri playing shirts for men are now available in Premier Sports in Comber.
As a reminder, if you ordered some of the new clothing range, apart from the polo shirts which have not yet arrived, it has now been bagged up for you and is awaiting collection. (and payment!).

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:: KIRK CUP PROGRAMME COMPLETED

By Robin Mitchell
26/09/2011

North Down completed their Kirk Cup programme with the visit of NICS to the Leisure Centre last Wednesday evening
Service started the game strongly with Grundy giving them an early lead when he superbly deflected a Barnes cross into the net.Service were unlucky not to extend their lead when first a Barnes cross was missed at the far post with the home defence stretched.Minutes later Barnes was unlucky to see a piledriver rebound of the post.North Down settled down and good work from Forrest won a corner.The initial shot was saved but Black was on hand to score his first senior goalSheppard was showing up well in attack and also performing his defensive duties with a fine tackle with the goal at the Service forwards mercy.Just before halftime the North Down defence failed to clear and Service scored a soft goal
North Down upped the tempo in the second period and dominated play for long spellsForrest won a corner which was cleared then combined with Linter but was unable to get a strike away.Good interplay between Bailie and Willis put Maggee in but noone was able to get a touch to his cross.Against the run of play Barnes won a corner which he convertedMcKibbin had a srong run into the Service circle and won a corner but Forrests effort from the rebound went high over the bar.Coates made a fine save but the ball was not cleared by his fellow defenders and Conway was harshly penalised for feet.Barnes converte the resultant flick.Bailie made a fine run down the left and presented Willis with a simple tap in.
The second half performance is one which coach Peter Whyte is hoping will be replicated in the first league game away to Kilkeel next Saturday

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:: LOST PROPERTY

By Keith Conway
26/09/2011

I have a number of items which have been left behind at various times last season. They are:
Ulster Rugby Canterbury top, black & grey, size small.
Rucanor tracksuit bottoms, black, size medium.
Canterbury tracksuit bottoms, navy, size large.
If you would like to claim any or all of these please contact me on 07817824039.
Unclaimed items will shortly be making a one way visit to the Comber Civic Amenity Site ie the skip!!

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:: LADIES SECONDS LOSE OUT IN DUNGANNON

By Sheona Whiteside
26/09/2011

Last Saturday the ladies seconds travelled to play Dungannon seconds in Junior League Three. The whole team played very well and started off confidently but went behind when Dungannon scored from a penalty corner in the first half. In the second half both teams played a part in a very open game. On a couple of occasions North Down had the ball come off the post along the line but failed to ensure the result was a goal. During a Dungannon break North Down, perhaps went to sleep a little as the Tyrone girls scored their second.
Although North Down did not play badly, it was far from the standard of hockey they produced the previous week against Grosvenor seconds. The final score finished 2-0 to Dungannon.
Player of the match was Rebecca Brown.

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:: GOOD WIN FOR LADIES FIFTHS

By Claire Shields
25/09/2011

Last Friday night North Down fifths travelled to Saintfield thirds for their second league game. They started in control and quickly went 1 – 0 up with a goal from Olivia Brown. Nicky Hunter also made it onto the score sheet when she found herself with only the keeper to beat and tucked it home safely. Just before the stroke of half time Marion Miller took a beautiful free from the half way line that found Olivia Brown in the circle. Again she made no mistake and scored her second goal to put the fifths 3 – 0 up at half time.
In the second half Saintfield made a few changes and made it clear they were not going to go down without a fight. They had some good pressure and Linda Marshall had to make some good saves. Fortunately the defence held tight and no goals were conceded in the second half.
The final result was 3 – 0 to North Down fifths.

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:: THE SATURDAY BIRTHDAY SPOT

By
24/09/2011

24th Andrew McKibben
24th Alastair Keith
28th Jo Irwin
29th Jennifer Patterson

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:: GOALSCORING MILESTONES COMING UP

By Statto
23/09/2011

With the men's season proper about to start on 1 October there are a number of goalscoring milestones due to be reached:

Stephen Magee needs 1 more for 100
Sam Pyper needs 20 more for 200 and, the all time leader,
Peter Shields needs 10 more for 300.

William Hill has given the following odds:
Magee by end of October 4/7
Pyper by end of season 1/1
Shields by 19 November 3/1

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:: UPDATE ON KUKRI CLOTHING AVAILABILITY

By Jim Patterson
22/09/2011

There will be a slight delay on the delivery of the polo shirts and mens playing shirts but all other kit will be available from Premier Sports in Comber from tomorrow afternoon.

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:: MENS CLUB TRAINING THIS WEDNEDAY

By R Mitchell
21/09/2011

As the mens 1st XI are due to play Civil Service in a Kirk Cup game at 8.30 pm on Wednesday night, normal Club training has been cancelled.

Turn up though and support your club.

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:: KIRK CUP DEFEATS TO KILKEEL AND BANBRIDGE

By Robin F Mitchell
20/09/2011

North Down travelled to Kilkeel last Wednesday for their second game in the Kirk Cup series with coach Peter Whyte making a number of changes following the defeat by Annadale.

Kilkeel took the lead after fifteen minutes when midfielder Armstrong was allowed to weave his way through a number of tackles before blasting the ball past Andy Coates. North Down slowly fought their way into the game and a reverse shot from Gareth Bailie brought a save but Stevie Dalzell was on hand to slot home the equaliser for his first senior goal. Just before halftime, Keith Conway had a great chance to put the visitors ahead when the ball came to him three yards out following a short corner but he failed to get a touch.

North Down dominated early in the second period with Andrew McKibben and Richard Cooper combining well but with fifteen minutes remaining Kilkeel’s superior fitness began to tell and North Down started to run out of steam. Kilkeel began to apply pressure and Coates blocked a number of efforts to keep the scoreline level but with three minutes remaining McKibben was unlucky to deflect an attempted clearance to the winger who hammered home.

North Down’s second Kirk Cup fixture within three days was one of the toughest of the lot, away last Saturday to high flying Banbridge.

The home team made the perfect start when ex North Down player Scott Caruth scored with a deflection in the first minute. Ten minutes later Stuart McCormick was penalised for a foul and Bann converted the resulting penalty. Midway through the half they added a third when skipper Steven McGimpsey was caught in possession. North Down had a brief spell of pressure of their own when they won three penalty corners but Lennox in goals did not have to make a save.

In the second period North Down’s cause was not helped by the withdrawal through illness of the influential McCormick and defender Michael Black and Bann continued to dominate. McCandless added number four from a corner, number five from open play mid way through the half. As they cruised to the end and just to add to North Down’s woes Bann added two late goals to leave the final score 7-0.

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:: LADIES FOURTHS START NEW LEAGUE WITH WIN

By Rachel Murray
20/09/2011

The ladies fourths first game back in Junior Five after being promoted last year was last Saturday against Parkview seconds at Nendrum College, Comber.

North Down knew they had to come out strongly and get an early goal and it was eventual Player of the Match Heather Kinnier who started off the scoring. North Down passed the ball well and had lots of chances against the keeper before it was again Heather Kinnier who was on hand to slot the ball past the Parkview keeper making it 2-0. Heather was then on hand to score her 3rd goal for an impressive hat trick and, as North Down kept up the pressure patiently passed the ball waiting for the next opportunity to strike, Marion Millar got North Down’s fourth goal.

The fourths finished well on top and Parkview never got the opportunity to worry the home keeper and the game finished 4-0.

Player of the Match: Heather Kinnier

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:: Ladies 1st XI lose against Ulster Elks in the Ulster Shield

By KHaslett
20/09/2011

The ladies 1st XI hosted Ulster Elks on Saturday in the Ulster Shield and lost the game 5-1. The Ulster Elks proved their premier league status on Saturday with good control of the possession throughout the game. The North Down team battled well in the midfield and defense with a number of good tackles. However, the Elks managed to convert the first goal with a couple of missed tackles and an easy opportunity to shoot at goal.
The first half continued in a similar fashion with the Elks controlling the game and taking their opportunities to finish 3-0 at the break.
The second half from North Down showed improvement, with better link up play and a few good attacking opportunities in the Elks circle. The Elks managed to stretch the game to 4 – 0, but the North Down team kept working hard.
Selina Lewis showed good determination down the right side of the pitch with some good link up play with Hannah McKee and attacked the Elks half when given the opportunity.
Zara Miller managed to break through the Elks defense and linked up well with Amy Benson to the circle. Zara’s final pass to Amy in the circle provided a well deserved goal for the North Down team to bring the scoreline back to 4-1.
Whilst the scoreline finished 5-1, the North Down team can go away and work on a few key areas before they play Lisnagarvey on Tuesday 20th September in the final game of the Shield.
Farmview Player of the Match was Selina Lewis.

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:: LIZ CARUTH CHARITY MEMORIAL GAME

By Jim Patterson
18/09/2011

North Down ladies vets beat their Ards counterparts 4 - 1 in the annual Liz Caruth Memorial game today at Ards Leisure Centre. However, as usual, the result was of no significance as the Marie Curie cancer charity was, as always, the real winner. Another Ł540 was raised today bringing the total in eight years to over Ł10,000.

Liz's daughter Julia was there to present the trophy to winning skipper Julie Fisher to round off a fun day but a day when everyone was able to remember a much loved person who uniquely was a member of both clubs!

For some images of the day, check the gallery photos.

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:: THE SATURDAY BIRTHDAY SPOT

By
17/09/2011

This week's celebrating boys and girls are:
19th Jamie Kitchen
20th Stephanie Brown
23rd Michael Black

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:: Ladies 1st XI v Armagh in the Ulster Shield

By KHaslett
16/09/2011

The Ladies 1st XI travelled to Armagh on Wednesday night to play Armagh Ladies in the Ulster Shield and lost 5-1. Despite the scoreline, the North Down ladies performed well as a team and showed good progression from last season.
The Armagh team controlled the possession in the first 20minutes of the game and demonstrated their ability up front with a goal from open play 15minutes into the game. The North Down defenders did show good organisation and produced some timely tackles when required.
Nikki Ferris showed her class in nets for North Down as she managed to save a number of efforts from the Armagh forwards in the first half. The second goal came quickly after, followed by a dubious third goal from a short corner routine just before half time.
The second half showed improvements from North Down with the midfielders frustrating the Armagh possession and showed good spells of retaining the ball. Jenny Todd continued her consistent performances in the centre of midfield with good link up play with Hannah McKee and Andrea Mockford.
Armagh managed to score another 2 goals in the first 20 minutes of the second half, but they were kept at bay with a number of top class saves from Ferris. The save of the night involved deflecting a shot over the bar with her helmet, which showed fantastic commitment.
The North Down forwards worked extremely hard all night and played some good hockey to provide opportunities in the last 10 minutes of the game. The captain Bex Mitchell managed to break through the Armagh defense and navigate her way round the Armagh goal keeper for a well deserved goal. The players have definitely grown in confidence as a team and look forward to hosting the Elks this Saturday.
The girls will play Ulster Elks this Saturday at Comber Leisure Centre at 2:30pm, so all club support would be greatly appreciated.
Farmview Player of the Match was Nikki Ferris.

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:: MEN'S JUNIOR CLUB TRAINING THIS WEEK

By Jim Patterson
13/09/2011

With the first eleven playing in Kilkeel on Wednesday night this is the big chance for the rest of the men's club to come down to Comber LC at 8.30 pm, have the use of the whole pitch and meet the new 2nd XI coach.

There are friendly games arranged this Saturday in preparation for the first games on 1 October so come along on Wednesday and start sharpening up that fitness!

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:: Youth Hockey returns

By PW
12/09/2011

Monday 12th September will see another year of youth hockey commence at the club.

Our youth section caters for both boys and girls from P2 to Form 4 with the emphasis on skill development and having fun. We participate fully in the Ulster Hockey youth leagues.

All sessions are taken by qualified coaches and take place at Comber Leisure Centre.

The session times and commencement dates are as below:

Boys Form 1 to Form 4 - Monday 12 September 6.00 to 7.00
Girls Form 1 to Form 4 - Monday 12 September 7.00 to 8.00
Boys and girls P2 to P7 - Sunday 18 September 1.30 to 2.30

We pride ourselves on being a welcoming club and all new members can be assured of a warm welcome. For more information please contact Peter Bond on 07809465729 or peter_bond07@yahoo.co.uk

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:: OPENING KIRK CUP GAME ENDS IN DEFEAT

By R F Mitchell
12/09/2011

North Down, having completed a pre-season warm up with five games in the Civil Service tournament and a friendly against Portadown, got down to real competition with a home game against Annadale in the Kirk Cup last Saturday at Comber Leisure Centre.

Still unable to field a full side North Down were always going to be up against it although Annadale are in a rebuilding process themselves. Whilst Annadale had more of the possession North Down were disappointed to turn round at half time 2 goals in arrears. Annadale opened the scoring when Mills was allowed space to crash a reverse shot past Andy Coates after 10 minutes. Play was confined to midfield with both defences looking comfortable but with the clock ticking away Annadale got the vital second goal on the stroke of half time. Coates made a fine effort to deflect a fierce reverse shot wide but the ball rolled agonisingly into the corner of the net.

Early in the second half Annadale won a short corner for an infringement in the circle and Hamilton scored with ease. Stuart McCormick was then unlucky to receive a yellow card following a clumsy tackle and this gave Annadale the impetus to control the remainder of the game. They scored number four with another reverse shot and North Down were unable to get their rhythm back following McCormick’s return to action. Annadale dominated the remainder of the game and Mills completed the scoring with another reverse shot with five minutes left on the clock.

North Down junior teams played in two well contested friendly fixtures last weekend against their Civil Service counterparts. A thirds/fourths select won 2 – 0 at Ards Leisure Centre and the fifths won 6 – 5 at Stormont despite being three goals behind with five minutes remaining.

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:: THE SATURDAY BIRTHDAY SPOT

By
10/09/2011

12th Marietta Lammey
13th Jim Patterson
14th David Shepherd
15th Gavin Wilson
16th Stuart McCormick

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:: Charity Fund Raising

By Peter Bond
09/09/2011

I am Pleased to Announce that the amount raised for The Northern Ireland Cancer Fund For Children on the exhibition day was Ł150!

Well done everybody!

We also have the shirts that were won on the day to be donated.

These shirts will be sent to the 3rd World, with the Northern Ireland Cancer Fund for Children also receiving a donation per Kg of clothes donated!

If you still have your shirt form the exhibition day and wish to donate it to this worthy cause please hand them to your team captain, or to Peter Bond at Training.

Also Men - As we are changing our shirts this year, your old North Down Hockey tops would also be a welcome donation. The New kit will be avalible to Purchase from Premier Sports soon!

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:: Exhibition day - Results

By Peter Bond
08/09/2011

Huge Thank you to everybody who turned out for the Club Exhibition day.

Congratulations to Team B - from the men and Team F from the ladies, who won their respective sections. Fortunately neither team stayed to collect their prize!!!

Well done all so to the Men's vets team who narrowly beat the ladies vets on the same day.

All in all it was a great day for the club where charity was the Winner.

More to be announced on how much was actually raised.

Lost Property News!!!!

Somebody left a stick behind on Saturday (It is blue) I have it in my stick bag...

Also Conor Miller lost his Keys... if anybody has found a set of keys please return them to him ASAP... Apparently he can't get in to his house, and has been sleeping in the garden shed!

Thanks again to Everybody!

Pete

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:: The Future's bright

By LC
05/09/2011

Sunday saw the annual Grosvenor Tournament take place for all ladies teams from Junior 3 to 11 i.e. from North Down ladies 2nds and below. With all senior players involved in the club exhibition day on Saturday the club took the opportunity to put out a young side on Sunday and sent a squad of under 18s to Grosvenor Grammar school to take part.
The girls started with a scoreless draw against Grosvenor 2s. This was followed up with a 2-0 win over Dromore 2s and another goalless draw this time against Saintfield. They suffered their first defeat against the hosts Grosvenor 1s as they went down 2-0. However the Comber girls quickly bounced back and notched up a 1-0 win against Dromore followed by a 2-0 win against Greenisland.
The girls amassed a total of 11 points during the group stage which saw them placed second and qualify for the final to face Grosvenor 1s, who had inflicted the girls’ only defeat earlier on in the afternoon. The hosts were much older and more experienced than the young North Down side however the girls were ready for a battle.
A dubious penalty corner decision gave Grosvenor their first opportunity and they made no mistake as the ball was rocketed through the North Down defence and gave the impressive Sheona Whiteside in nets no chance. This spurred the youngsters into life and they put plenty of pressure on the Grosvenor defence, a few opportunities were missed before North Down scrambled the ball into the net to bring it back to 1-1 after the home defence failed to clear.
With time ticking away and the older Grosvenor side looking tired North Down plugged away looking for the winning goal. With North Down committed to attack Grosvenor countered quickly and from one such attack the Grosvenor right midfielder fired a nothing ball into the North Down circle which was easily trapped and cleared by Amy Jones. Unbelievably the umpire gave a short corner without explanation and again Grosvenor did not waste the opportunity as the ball crashed against the back board to give the hosts the lead 2-1 and ensured the trophy would stay at CIYMS.
The girls should be given huge credit for their performances as for some this was their first venture into senior hockey and many were playing out of position throughout the tournament. Many thanks to Adrienne Da Costa for organising the squad and coaching/umpiring the girls on Sunday despite the fact that she has a rather large amount of packing to do before she heads off on her travels this week. Adrienne and fellow 1sts players Laura Clarke and Amy Benson were suitably impressed with how all the girls played and will be keeping an eye on their performances throughout to the season and are eager to see how the girls progress.
Thanks also to the girls’ parents who came out in their numbers to support despite the weather.
Squad – Sheona Whiteside, Rebecca Brown, Jane Alexander, Jenna Hoey, Rebecca Walker, Sarah Elliott, Amy Jones, Shannon White, Olivia Brown, Barbara Moles, Rebecca Mercer, Ali Carson, Lynne Doherty.

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:: THE SATURDAY BIRTHDAY SPOT

By
03/09/2011

5th Anna Rogers
5th Paul Johnston

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:: Exhibition day - Ladies Teams - Selection

By Peter Bond
02/09/2011

Please see below which team you have been allocated to. All players have been evenly distributed between 2XI -5XI and New members.

Be there at 12:30 Sharp to find your team and be issued with your shirt.

Your shirts on the day, sporting the logo of our chosen charity "Northern Ireland Cancer Fund for Children".

If anybody has a problem before Saturday, please let me know via e-mail peter_bond07@yahoo.co.uk or phone:07809465729.

E

Linzi Cambpell
Laura Murray
Rebecca Walker
Amy Jones
Gillian Neil
Irene McCaughan (Cpt)
XX

F

Jo Irwin
Linda Marshall
Julie Fisher (Cpt)
Rebecca Neild
Charlotte McKee
Rachel Mornin
Rachel Murray

G

Rebecca Brown (Cpt)
Jenna Hoey
Sarah Elliott
Kayla Enos
Jane Alexander
Olivia Brown
XX

H

Anna Dunlop
Shannen White
Laura Campbell
Janice (Revill)
Heather Kinnear
Barbara Moles
Kathy Taylor (Cpt)

You may notice that there are a few XX in the teams - This is because we are struggling for a few players (two actually) I you know anybody who fancies a game bring them down and we'll fit them in!

Sorry this is a bit late. I will have a copy of it with me tomorrow as well. so no fear!

Please be down at 12:30... as games are due to start at 1pm!

Thanks everybody!

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:: Peter Bond

By Team line ups Men's section exhibition day 3/9/11
31/08/2011

Please see below which team you have been allocated to. All players have been evenly distributed between 2XI -5XI and New members.

Be there at 12:30 Sharp to find your team and be issued with your shirt.

Your shirts on the day, sporting the logo of our chosen charity "Northern Ireland Cancer Fund for Children".

If anybody has a problem before Saturday, please let me know via e-mail peter_bond07@yahoo.co.uk or phone:07809465729.

A

Matt Jordan
Mathew McInnes
Willie Gibson
Will Gilpin
Peter McGreevy
Gordon Brown
Ben McInnes

B

Darren Rodgers
Paul Revill
Adam Tate
Roger Graham
Scotty Moore
Jamie Kitchen
Sam Brown

C

Chris McSherry
Mark Shannon
Andrew McKibbin
Peter Bond
Stevie Dalzell
Rowan Poots
Conor Miller

D

Lee Brown
Sam Pyper
Mark Linter
William Hastings
Peter Devlin
Daniel Lavery
Michael Orr

The Ladies section will be announced tomorrow.

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:: THE LATE SATURDAY BIRTHDAY SPOT

By
30/08/2011

31st Andrew Caldwell
2nd Stephen Magee

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:: Mens Pre Season Friendlies

By robin mitchell
24/08/2011

With the season due to start for all Junior teams on 1 October the following friendlies have been arranged

10 Sept 2nd/3rd/4th select v NICS at Comber
3rd/4th/5th select v NICS at Comber

17 Sept 2nd/3rd/4th select v Bangor at Comber
3rd/4th/5th select v Bangor at Comber

24 Sept 2nd/3rd/4th select v NICS at Stormont
3rd/4th/5th select V NICS at Stormont

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:: Exhibition day format!

By Peter Bond
22/08/2011

With less than two weeks to go till our first Exhibition day. Don't miss out on your chance to get involved, and start you pre-season with our opening event. The day is to run from 12:30pm until 5pm on the 3/9/11! With round robin Men's and Ladies 7-aside matches and the Men's Veterans vs Ladies Veterans as the show piece event! All you have to do to get involved is e-mail your name to peter_bond07@yahoo.co.uk and turn up on the day, it couldn't be simpler!! New Members are also welcome. So if anybody is thinking of taking up the sport this year or even looking for a new club, come down on the 3rd a see what North Down Hockey Club has to offer! See you all soon!

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:: NICS Tournament

By adc
20/08/2011

Preseason fixtures for the senior clubs kick off this evening at Stormont with both the mens and ladies 1st XI squads in action at the NICS Invitational Tournament.

The match schedules for both teams are as follows:

MEN
Fri 18.30 v Cookstown
Sat 10.00 v Mossley
Sat 17.15 v NICS
Sun 10.00 v Pembroke Wanderers
Sun 13.00 v Lisnagarvey

LADIES
Fri 19.55 v Ards
Sat 12.30 v NICS
Sun 13.00 v Portadown

All support welcome

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:: THE SATURDAY BIRTHDAY SPOT

By
20/08/2011

20th Ryan Galway
20th Vikki Gray
25th Ben Willis

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:: Annual Subscriptions

By Willie Reid
18/08/2011

Members should note that annual subscriptions are now due and should be paid as soon as possible to myself or Nicki Ferris.

A discount of Ł20 is offered on all subs if paid before 31 October 2011.

Subscriptions for season 2011/12 are as follows

Senior Ł200
Under 21 Ł170
Resident Student Ł145
Non Resident Student Ł 60
Under 18 Ł125
Under 15 Ł100
Under 11 Ł85
Ladies Veteran Ł95
Family Membership Ł345
Non Playing Ł30

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:: Exhibition day 2xi and below!

By Peter Bond
16/08/2011

3 September 2011 - is the first North Down Exhibition day. The event is now open to all players (friendly commitments permitting) This is the first run out of the season, and what better way to dust the rust off those skills that an Interclub competition! To participate in this event all you have to do is register by e-mailing Peter Bond - peter_bond07@yahoo.co.uk and the rest will be done for you. EASY and hassle free all you'll have to do then is turn up and play! New Members are more than welcome so club members register your friends too! - Please register before 31/8/11 to make it easier for me... please please please!!! - Go on your on the internet reading this now... why not just e-mail me?

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:: Mens Training

By robin mitchell
15/08/2011

Mens training will switch to Enler Park from Monday 15 August.Details as follows
Senior Squad Mondays 8.00-9.00 p.m.
Club Wednesdays 8.30-10.p.m.
Coach Peter Whyte is hoping that the response from players will be much improved as attendance at training sessions so far has been poor.

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:: THE SATURDAY BIRTHDAY SPOT

By
13/08/2011

14th Daniel Lavery
16th Sheona Whiteside
16th Alison Millar

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:: Club Exhibition Day

By Peter Bond
10/08/2011

Welcome back to pre-season everybody. It won’t be long now before you're all dusting off your kit bags, putting on your Astros and getting reacquainted with your stick! Captains will soon be in touch with each team’s individual pre-season friendlies; however I would like to take the honour of announcing the first date for the diary! 3/9/2011 will see our first Club Exhibition day! This is a welcome to all the new faces at the club, as well as a welcome back to all the old ones! - The format will be a small 7 a-side interclub competition for both the Men and the Ladies - the Show piece finale will be the annual - Men's vets Vs Ladies vets match. There will be a BBQ down at the pitch and presentations in the club house after! To register your interest in this event please contact Peter Bond via e-mail - peter_bond07@yahoo.co.uk - the event is open to 3xi players and below - Thank you, and see you all soon!

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:: THE SATURDAY BIRTHDAY SPOT

By
06/08/2011

6th Anna Dunlop
7th Stephen Dalzell
8th Paul Revill
10th Katie Burke
11th Steven McGimpsey (THE SKIPPER!)
12th Lauren Ashfield
12th Hannah McKee

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:: MENS/LADIES INTERNATIONALS - UCD, DUBLIN

By Jim Patterson
02/08/2011

The Ireland mens team will play Argentina on 6 and 7 August at 3 pm each day. The ladies will play Argentina, the current world's No.1, on 12 August at 5 pm and 13 August at 4 pm.

Admission to eacj game at UCD is 5 Euros.

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:: PRE SEASON FITNESS TRAINING

By P Whyte/K Haslett
01/08/2011

Pre season fitness training has now started and continues on Wednesdays and Mondays. Ladies at 6.45 pm - Park Way and men at 7.00 - The Green.

Some first night photos on the gallery!!

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:: THE SATURDAY BIRTHDAY SPOT

By
30/07/2011

2 Aug Louise Speers
3 Aug Charlotte McKee
5 Aug Shannon White

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:: BALLYNAHINCH LADIES MIXED TOURNAMENT

By Karen Barker
28/07/2011

Ballynahinch Ladies are holding a 7-a-side mixed tournament on 3 September at 11.00 am to open their new astro pitch.

Contact me if you are interested in playing in this event!

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:: PRE SEASON TRAINING

By Jim Patterson
26/07/2011

As already announced, fitness training starts on 1 August. We will move onto the astro on Mondays and Wednesdays from 15 August. Exact timings will be revealed shortly!

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:: THE SATURDAY BIRTHDAY SPOT

By
23/07/2011

23rd Lynsey Catherwood
24th Claire Whyte
27th Emma Johnston
29th Eve Grimason
29th Matthew Baird

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:: PRE SEASON FITNESS TRAINING

By Jim Patterson
20/07/2011

Everyone will have been maintaining their fitness levels during the season known here as summer however the formal pre season fitness training starts on 1 August.

Men will train at The Green Mondays and Wednesdays ready to start at 7.00 pm.

Ladies will train at Park Way Mondays and Wednesdays ready to start at 6.45 pm.

Keep watching the website for any changes to these arrangements.

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:: THE SATURDAY BIRTHDAY SPOT

By
16/07/2011

16th Nicola Hunter
17th Gillian Neill
18th Zara Millar
19th Lewis Ayton
21st Jocelyn Sturgeon

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:: COACHING CONFERENCE

By Jim Patterson
12/07/2011

The Irish Hockey Association are holding their Annual Coaching Conference for Ulster coaches at Lisnagarvey on 18 September from 10 am - 5 pm.

Anyone who wants to attend should contact Peter Whyte.

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:: THE SATURDAY BIRTHDAY SPOT

By
09/07/2011

This week's birthday bunnies are:
9th Willie Reid (not really a bunny)
10th Nikki Reid
11th Peter Bond
12th Richard Willis (Comber parade in his honour!)
15th Kim Browne
14th Martin Moreland
14th Kathy Taylor

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:: Girls U18 tournament at Knock Ladies

By Jim Patterson
06/07/2011

Knock Ladies are holding a tournament for Under 18s on 27 August at Shawsbridge, Belfast. If you are interested, contact Peter Bond at peter_bond07@yahoo.co.uk who will be organising the team.

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:: Hockey Summer Scheme

By P Whyte
06/07/2011

Ards Borough Council will be running their successful hockey summer scheme again this year for children aged six to fourteen. Taking place from 25 to 29 July and 15 to 19 August all the sessions will be held at Comber Leisure Centre from 10am - 12.30pm each day. The course will coat Ł25 per week per child although the second week or any other children in the same family will be charged Ł20.

The sessions are extremely popular so early booking is recommended. Contact Leisure Services on 02891824018 to book your place.

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:: BELATED BIRTHDAY SPOT

By
05/07/2011

and this weeks birthday girls and boys are:-
3rd Aimee Orr
3rd Roger Nield
6th Anna Dunlop
6th Laura Clarke
6th Stuart Nicholson

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:: FORTHCOMING TOURNAMENTS, FESTIVALS ETC

By Jim Patterson
01/07/2011

We have received invitations from several clubs over the past few weeks for start of season tournaments etc. If anyone is interested in putting together a team or teams for any of these, contact me for the details.

Ayr Hockey Club
27/28 August
11-a-side for mens, ladies teams

Newcastle Nomads
20 August at Donard Park, Newcastle, Co Down.
6-a-side for mens, ladies and mixed teams
Closing date for entries 15 July

Priorians Hockey Club
27 August at St Columbs Pk, Londonderry
7-a-side ladies
Closing date for entries 12 August

1st World Vintage Hockey Carnival
Barbados
21/28 October 2012
Over 35s men

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:: THE SATURDAY BIRTHDAY SPOT

By
25/06/2011

This week's batch of birthday boys and girls:
25th Bethan Brittain
25th Richard McMillan
25th Colin Mockford
30th Johnny Calvin
30th Ryan Donaldson
1st Amy Benson

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:: STICK IT! COMPETITION RESULT

By Jim Patterson
24/06/2011

The winner of the last competition in the STICK IT! Club newsletter was Laura Clarke who was the only one to get all of the answers correct!
The answers were:
1 Lauren Brown, Phil Dorian.
2 Gavin Wilson, Naomi Dawson.
3 Davy Frazer, Richard Cooper, Peter Bond.
4 Simon Watt, Laura Clarke.
5 Stuart McCormick, Kathryn Mullin.
6 Scott Caruth, Andrea Mockford.
7 Jonny Moore, Louise Speers.
8 Lauren Brown, Karen Barker.

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:: Sudden Death of Doris Glover

By robin mitchell
17/06/2011

It was with sadness that we learned of the sudden death of Doris Glover last evening.Doris was one of the founder members of the Ladies Section who celebrate the 50th Anniversary this year.
We extend our sympathies to husband Stanley and Richard,Stewart and Lynn.
Funeral arrangements later.

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:: UMPIRES' BEGINNERS COURSE

By Jim Patterson
12/06/2011

The UHU Umpires Association is running an Umpires' Beginners Course at Mossley Hockey Club on 22 June. Registration is at 6.45pm for a 7.00pm start. The Ł25 fee will be paid by the Club.

If any member is interested in attending please contact Gavin Wilson at 07772760644.

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:: DOUBLE SATURDAY BIRTHDAY SPOT

By
11/06/2011

12th Keith Conway
17th Graeme Morrison
17th Justin Sloan
19th Scott Moore
19th Jamie Pooler
20th Colin Morrison
21st Johnny Davidson
22nd Jenna Hoey

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:: June STICK IT! newsletter

By Jim Patterson
09/06/2011

The June issue of STICK IT!, the Club newsletter, has been emailed to all members today. If you didn't get your copy let me know by email so that I can correct your email address.

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:: FORTHCOMING INTERNATIONAL HOCKEY

By Jim Patterson
08/06/2011

There are two sets of international hockey games coming shortly at UCD, Dublin.

The ladies FIH Champions Challenge tournament will feature Azerbaijan, India, Ireland, Japan, Scotland, South Africa, Spain and USA.

The mens 4 Nations Cup will be competed for by China, France, Ireland and Pakistan.

Games will be played from 18 - 26 June and tickets can be bought from the IHA website www.hockey.ie starting from 5 euros.

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:: THE SATURDAY BIRTHDAY SPOT

By
04/06/2011

Only one this week :-)

5 June Selina Lewis.

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:: DEATH OF ROBERT BRUCE

By Gavin Wilson
01/06/2011

Everyone at the Club extends their sympathies to Richard, Julie and all of the family circle on the death of their father Robert on Monday.

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:: THE SATURDAY BIRTHDAY SPOT

By
28/05/2011

28th Alan McMaster
29th Hilary West
30th Claire Shields
1st Johnny Clarke

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:: GENERAL COMMITTEE FOR NEW SEASON

By Jim Patterson
27/05/2011

The General Committee elected at the AGM is as follows:
Chairman - Chris Revill
Hon Secretary - Gavin Wilson
Ladies Hon Secretary - Karen Barker
Hon Treasurer - Willie Reid
Club Development Officer - Kathryn Mullin
Communications Officer - Jim Patterson
Ladies Hon Treasurer - Nikki Ferris
Tournament Convenor - Alan McMaster
Mens Members Officer - Gareth Bailie
Ladies Club Captain - Julie Fisher
Coaches Representative - Peter Whyte
Ladies 1st XI Representative - Laura Clarke
Minister without portfolio - Adrienne Da Costa.

There are three posts yet to be filled:
Fundraising Officer
Youth Development Officer
Mens 1st XI Representative.

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:: 1st XI MEN'S CAPTAIN

By R Mitchell
23/05/2011

Congratulations to Steven McGimpsey who has been appointed first eleven captain for the new season!

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:: THE SATURDAY BIRTHDAY SPOT

By
21/05/2011

Only 1 this week:
27 May - Rachel Murray

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:: NEW MEN'S HEAD COACH APPOINTED

By
20/05/2011

Peter Whyte has been appointed as the Club's new Head Coach with immediate effect. peter is a Level 2 graded coach and has been the Club's Youth Development Officer for a number of years.

Robin Mitchell remains as 1st XI manager. It is therefore hoped that the high standard of water bottle filling will remain!

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:: BELATED BIRTHDAY SPOT FOR THIS WEEK

By
19/05/2011

Happy birthdays to:
Keith Haslett 16th
Yvonne Revill 17th
Vickie Herron 18th and
David Donaldson 18th

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:: FANTASY HOCKEY WINNER

By Jim Patterson
18/05/2011

and the winner of North Down's fantasy hockey league for 2010/11 is ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... KAREN BARKER - MANAGER OF HIGH VOLTAGE
The final top five in the table were
1 High Voltage - Karen Barker - 542 pts
2 Who cares who wins - Chris Revill - 538 pts
3 Abbey Albion - Laura Clarke - 511 pts
4 We all dream of ... - Ryan Galway - 490 pts
4 Pypes Pro XI - Sam Pyper - 490 pts

The prize is currently being designed and will be presented at an appropriate time.

Thanks to all who took part even last place Linda Marshall and Marshall Rangers!

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:: ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

By Jim Patterson
17/05/2011

Don't forget! The AGM is tonight at 7.30 pm in the Cricket Club.

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:: MENS 1st XI HEAD COACH POSITION

By G Wilson
16/05/2011

North Down Hockey Club invite applications for the post of Men's Head Coach.

Copies of the application form and the job description may be obtained from the Honorary Secretary Gavin Wilson at gavwilson2000@yahoo.co.uk

The closing date for receipt of applications is 16 May 2011.

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:: PREMIER LEAGUE PLAY OFF

By Jim Patterson
06/05/2011

The 2nd place play off match with South Antrim will be at Stormont this Saturday at 2.30 pm on the water based pitch.

Support your club! BE THERE!!!!!!!!!!

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:: THE SATURDAY BIRTHDAY SPOY

By
06/05/2011

Only two this week :-)

8th Johnny Moore
12th Ross Linter

Happy Birthday boys!

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:: VICTORY AT STORMONT - FULL REPORT

By 1st XI reporter
05/05/2011

North Down last night defeated Bangor 2 -1 at Stormont in a Premier League playoff game and now must play South Antrim at 2.30 pm this Saturday at the same venue on the water based pitch.
Bangor started confidently and had much of the early play as North Down conceded possession in the Bangor half. In the third minute a wayward pass from Richard Willis was intercepted and a Bangor attack led to their first penalty corner however the shot was wide of the mark. Davy Frazer, playing despite a pre match warm up injury scare, then sent a great cross into the Bangor circle which just evaded a North Down stick and on 15 minutes another great ball from Frazer was just too long for Simon Watt.
Bangor began to make inroads into a tight North Down defense and moments later Andy Coates pulled off a great save when the ball fell loose in the circle. On 19 minutes this spell of pressure paid off when, following the award of a penalty corner for feet, Bangor scored with a shot into the corner after beating the first runner. Despite this advantage, Bangor were unable to make use of the possession freely given to them in the first third of the pitch and for the first time in the game North Down had their own spell of pressure. Simon Watt and Scott Caruth combined well on the right wing with some intricate short passes but Bangor cleared the danger and then a mazy run from Watt again had the seasiders’ defense at sixes and sevens before the ball was cleared.
With 30 minutes on the clock Bangor were awarded their third short corner, this time for obstruction, but Andy Coates pulled off another great save and the ball was cleared. Moments later, North Down almost equalised when a great cross from Caruth was deflected goalwards by skipper Willis only for Torney to save well to keep Bangor 1 – 0 ahead at the interval.
North Down started the second half looking at last as if they meant business. An early shot from Willis was cleared for a long corner and from this the ball struck a Bangor foot for a penalty corner. Scott Caruth’s goal bound effort was saved by Torney but the deflection fell to Simon Watt who hit a waist high shot into the roof of the net to level the scores and delight the large crowd of North Down supporters. On 42 minutes Bangor had what turned out to be their last meaningful attacking moments when they gained their fourth and fifth short corners in quick succession. The shot from the first was blocked and Coates saved the second to a long corner. After this, Bangor rarely posed a threat for the North Down defense and basically ran out of attacking ideas.
As much as Bangor had controlled play in the first half, North Down now were in dominant form as the coaches allowed them to take the foot off the brake and use the accelerator. On 46 minutes Caruth had a great chance to score when clean through but elected to pass to Watt who failed to control the ball, a real let off for Bangor! Willis then was the provider for Caruth but his effort was just wide and Willis himself just failed to get to a great diagonal ball from Richard Cooper.
Time was clearly running out for Bangor and on 61 minutes a shot from Willis was blocked by a defender’s body leading to the award of North Down’s second penalty corner when a penalty stroke might have been the more appropriate decision. It wasn’t to matter however as Scott Caruth rocketed in a trademark drag flick which the defenders on the goal line did well to avoid to put the Comber side 2-1 ahead. The final minutes of the game were all North Down as they forced three short corners in quick succession but Bangor held out before the final whistle both ended the game and their spell in the premier League.
Attention now quickly turns to the final fixture of the season, the playoff game against Senior One runners up South Antrim this Saturday at 2.30 pm at Stormont.
Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Richard Willis

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:: VICTORY AT STORMONT - FULL REPORT

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:: MEN'S FIRSTS WIN RELEGATION PLAY OFF

By JP
04/05/2011

North Down defeated Bangor 2 - 1 at Stormont on Wednesday night to keep alive their hopes of Premier League survival. Goals from Simon Watt and Scott Caruth, full report later. The second place play off will be against South Antrim who lost 2 - 0 to Harlequins in the Senior One play off game.

Game on at Stormont on Saturday at 2.30 pm. Support your Club, BE THERE!

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:: BIG GAME AT STORMONT THIS WEDNESDAY

By JP
02/05/2011

The Premier League relegation play off match is at Stormont this Wednesday on the water based pitch at 7.30 pm.

Come along and support your Club!

South Antrim and Harlequins play at the same time in the Senior One promotion play off on the sand based pitch.

The winners of the Premier League play off will play the losers of the Senior One play off on Saturday at Stormont at 2.30 pm

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:: THE SATURDAY BIRTHDAY SPOT

By
01/05/2011

Birthday greetings to:
26 April Kathryn Mullin
30 April Gareth Bailie
5 May Chris Revill
5 May Janet Bradley
6 May Paddy Wright

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:: IMPORTANT EMAIL TO MEMBERS

By Jim Patterson
30/04/2011

Would all members please check their emails for an important message sent yesterday. If you didn't get it, please contact me.

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:: APRIL NEWSLETTER COMPETITION RESULT

By J Patterson
27/04/2011

The April STICK IT! newsletter competition was won by Adrienne Da Costa now the new owner of a North Down polo.

The answers were:- A5, B3, C4, D2, E8, F6, G7, H9, I10, J1.

Thanks to all who entered. Yes, that's you Adrienne and you Rebecca W!

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:: EASTER BALLOT RESULTS

By J Patterson
25/04/2011

1st Willie Reid
2nd David McAteer
3rd Rebecca Mitchell
4th E Smyth
5th David Frazer
6th William Brown
7th Phil Dorian
8th Sam Corbett

Congratulations to all of our winners. You will be contacted with your prizes shortly.

Thanks to all who supplied prizes and to all the ticket sellers.

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:: RELEGATION PLAY OFF MATCH

By J Patterson
22/04/2011

The play off to decide 9th and 10th position in the Premier League will be on Wednesday 4 May at 7.30 pm on the water based pitch at Stormont. The Senior One play off will be on the sand based pitch at Stormont at the same time.

The play off between 9th place in the Premier and 2nd in Senior One will be at Stormont on Saturday 7 May at 2.30 pm, presumably on the water based pitch.

In the event of draws after 70 minutes there will be 15 minutes extra time with a golden goal to decide. If still a draw then there will be penalty strokes.

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:: CLUB NEWSLETTER COMPETITION

By J Patterson
22/04/2011

Any chance of some entries for the club newsletter competition??????

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:: MEN'S FOURTHS OUT OF LEAGUE CONTENTION

By Gavin Wilson
22/04/2011

The men's fourths lost 2 - 1 to Lisnagarvey 6ths last night in Hillsborough and lost any remaining slight chance that they could pip South Antrim 3rds for the Junior Four league title. Promotion has however already been secured!

The fifths had a heavy 8 - 2 defeat away to South Antrim 5ths last night also and have finished mid table.

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:: LADIES FOURTHS WIN JUNIOR LEAGUE SIX

By Rachel Murray
21/04/2011

The ladies fourths have won Junior League Six by beating Dromore 2nds 3 - 1 last night at Ferris Park, Dromore. The goals were scored by Kathy Taylor, Irene McCaughan and Heather Kinnier.

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:: HEIR TO WILLIS MILLLIONS ARRIVES

By Jim Patterson
20/04/2011

Congratulations to Jenny and Richard Willis on the arrival of their first child Ethan Jack who weighed in at 7lbs 12ozs!

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:: MEN'S FIRSTS DISAPPOINT AT BANGOR

By Robin Mitchell
20/04/2011

North Down travelled to Bangor on Saturday knowing that a point would secure their position in the Premier League for next season .
Without 7 of their regular squad members due to injury and unavailability for various reasons they gave one of their worst performances of the year losing 4-1.and now have to face Bangor again in a play of to determine who plays second team in Senior 1 for the right to play in the premier League next season.
Bangor were by far the better side on the day and thoroughly deserved their victory.Both sides had chances in the opening minutes with the Bangor keeper making a fine block at the top of the circle.Hunter won a corner for Bangor and Coates parried the effort.At the other end Forrest had a shot saved and Sheppard was unlucky when he played a perfect through pass but noone got on the end of it.Bangor broke the deadlock after 15 minutes when Hunter scored with a strong shot across the face of the goals.This settled Bangor and they dominated the remainder of the half.after 30 minutes Coates made a fine save from Hunter but Steen was on hand to smash the rebound home.Poor tackling along the byline allowed Bangor to increase their lead.Hunter skipped past 3 tackles before passing to Cox who had a simple tap in in front of goal.North Down had chances to reduce the lead before half time but Sheppaed shot wide after being set up by Caruth and then Caruth blasted a corner at the keeper who cleared.
The game was over 5 minutes into the second period when Bangor got their fourth with Morton finishing of a good move down the right.North Down were more competitive after this but Bangor were happy to hold onto what they had achieved .North Downs best efforts came from corners but on the day their delivery was poor and Caruth was denied the opportunity to get away any telling shots.However with about 15 minutes remaining he did find the net with a perfectly executed corner.
Both sides now have to wait until the Branch get a venue for the playoff probably after Easter.

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:: CLUB NEWSLETTER OUT TODAY

By J Patterson
18/04/2011

The latest STICK IT! newsletter has been emailed to all members today. If you didn't get it, contact me by email so that I can update your details.
jim.patterson@talktalk.net

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:: THE SATURDAY BIRTHDAY SPOT

By
16/04/2011

Birthday wishes this week to:
Jamie McKee 16 April
Rachel Mornin 18 April
Kathryn Rodgers 19 April
Gordon Brown 19 April
Jenny Ashfield 20 April
Gavin Rodgers 20 April
Laura Campbell 21 April

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:: CRUCIAL GAME FOR MEN'S FIRST ELEVEN

By JP
15/04/2011

The first eleven play Bangor in a crucial Premier League game at Ballykillaire tomorrow at 2.30 pm. All support welcome!

The third eleven's home game against Down 3rds has been cancelled.

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:: MEN'S FOURTH VICTORY SECURES PROMOTION

By G Wilson
14/04/2011

The fourths 4 - 0 victory over a strong Antrim third eleven last night has secured promotion to Junior Three for next season. Full match report later.

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:: WEDNESDAY EVENING DOUBLE HEADER AT COMBER LC

By Jim Patterson
13/04/2011

It's another midweek double header tonight as the men's fourths, fresh from their Junior Shield final last Saturday, play Antrim 3rds at 7.00pm needing 1 point to win promotion to Junior League 3.

After this excitement the men's seconds play Banbridge 2nds at 8.30pm in a Junior League 1 game rearranged after the visitors turned up at the wrong time earlier in the season. The reverse league fixture will be played in two days time.

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:: DINNER DANCE PHOTOS

By Anon
13/04/2011

The Dinner Dance photos have finally made it onto the site after many technical hitches. Go to 'Clubhouse' then 'Gallery'.

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:: GARVEY SECURE PREMIER LEAGUE AT COMBER

By W Reid
12/04/2011

North Down entertained title chasers Lisnagarvey at Comber Leisure Centre last Monday night seeking a point to relegate Bangor from the Premier League however a controlled performance from the Hillsborough team saw them score three times in each half to secure the league trophy.
The visitors had the advantage of an early lead when they went ahead after only 5 minutes. Timmy Cockram was given too much space in the circle and he beat Andy Coates in goal at the far post. Moments later the Garvey striker sent a reverse shot wide and it looked as if there could be a possible land slide of goals but North Down steadied the ship and for the remainder of the half their containment policy of playing ‘half court’ held the Garvey team at bay. In fact Coates in goal was rarely called into action and it looked as if the Garvey threat had been neutralized until Steven Arbuthnot shot wide when well placed on 24 minutes.
A free by Brian Waring led to Davy Frazer sustaining an injury from which he quickly recovered only to be green carded for dissent. Andy Corry, who has been a revelation in his first season at North Down, then did well to clear a Cockram short corner which had evaded Coates’ but the final moments of the first half proved decisive in the game. On 32 minutes Jason Lynch swept in a ball from a free hit on the right and right on the half time whistle Timmy Cockram drag flicked the ball giving Coates in goal no chance.
This virtually settled the game and Garvey never needed to get into top gear in the second half. Davy Frazer gave rise for hope when he flashed a pass from Simon Watt just wide of the post on the restart with McRoberts in goal well out of position but North Down several times gave the ball away needlessly in defence after this and simply created problems for themselves. Luckily, Andy Coates was in the same form he has been in all season and variously saved well from Arbuthnot, Buser and Cockram to keep the scoreline respectable.
It was 52 minutes before North Down got their first penalty corner but the rehearsed routine failed and a Ross Linter shot was cleared for a long corner. The pattern of play at this stage was similar to the first half but eventually the Garvey pressure wore down the dogged home defense. Mark Daniel made it four from a goalmouth melee on 57 minutes and 10 minutes later Greg Thompson picked up a rebound from Coates’ pads to net the fifth. Two minutes from time Timmy Cockram scored from a penalty stroke after Keith Conway was adjudged to have stick tackled Andy Forrest.
So, for North Down it all goes down to the last day of the season. A draw or better at Bangor this Saturday will condemn Bangor to the drop but they will then face a play off with the second placed team in Senior One, probably South Antrim, for a place in the Premier League next season.
After the game, the Lisnagarvey captain John Gray was presented with the Premier League trophy by Jennifer Patterson Ulster Hockey Union President, herself a North Down member!
Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Andy Coates

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:: NEW DATE FOR EASTER BALLOT

By J Patterson
12/04/2011

The Easter Ballot draw will be made at the Cricket Club on Easter Sunday 24 April immediately after the presentation of the prizes for the Easter Tournament. Make sure you have all of your tickets down by then.

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:: INTERNATIONAL HOCKEY FRIENDLIES

By Jim Patterson
12/04/2011

Ireland will play Canada at Stormont at 7.30 pm on 19 and 20 April

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:: FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @northdownhc

By LC
11/04/2011

Don't forget you can now follow the club on Twitter. We currently have 39 followers let's try to get to 50 by the end of the week! Find us here @northdownhc

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:: MEN'S FOURTHS JUST FAIL AT FINAL HURDLE

By Gavin Wilson
11/04/2011

This week, North Down 4th XI travelled to Stormont to take part in Ulster Hockey’s Junior Club Cup Finals day. There they faced Cookstown 4th XI in the Junior Shield Final, with the match played on NICS’s excellent waterbased pitch.

After suffering defeats in their last two league games due to player availability, North Down came to the final with a squad of 15, which included their first choice team as well as a number of 5th XI players that had all made valuable contributions during the season. Cookstown also had 15 players at their disposal. The Tyrone side, clearly determined to achieve cup success, included five players that played in the most recent midweek second XI game

Conditions were just about perfect at the 11am start, and with both teams having good support from the sidelines, the stage was set a memorable encounter.

The opening minutes of the contest were scrappy as both teams tried to settle into the biggest match of their seasons. North Down, playing in an all-navy, made a solid start, with some early passing moves amongst the forwards providing plenty of encouragement. But just as the Comber men were beginning to find their rhythm, Cookstown pounced on a North Down mistake, with only 10 minutes on the clock. The opening goal came after possession was given away in the midfield from a North Down hit-out. North Down were all of a sudden in a dangerous position as Cookstown broke with pace and numbers towards an exposed defence. Some neat stickwork at the edge of the circle created space for a shot and a Cookstown forward duly obliged with a powerful strike to make it 1-0.

After conceding the opening goal, North Down made a positive response. As the minutes ticked by in the first half, the Comber side began to apply good pressure to the Cookstown defence, and North Down’s first meaningful chance came, when Peter Shields engineered some space to get a good shot away, which was just wide. North Down continued to look threatening and several penalty corners were won as a result of their pressure, none of which could be converted.

With North Down looking likely to equalise, the big talking point of the first half came after twenty minutes. Shields, receiving the ball outside the circle, provided a moment of great skill to beat a Cookstown defender and drive towards goal ready to pull the trigger. The beaten Cookstown defender, however, ensured that Shields would have no such luck as a blatant push to the back inside the circle sent Shields crashing to the ground. Despite having a good view of the incident, the umpire awarded only a penalty corner, when a penalty flick seemed the most appropriate course of action. North Down were understandably aggrieved at this poor decision, and with the defender at the centre of the incident receiving no punishment, it was very much rough justice for the Comber side. As luck would have it, the awarded penalty corner could not be converted.

As North Down’s search for an equaliser continued, Cookstown created a few openings of their own with North Down goalkeeper Lee Brown more than equal to any threat. But with ten minutes of the half remaining, the Tyrone side put one hand on the trophy when the found another goal to establish a two-goal cushion. This time it was Cookstown Captain, Richard McGaw, who was given far too much time and space at the top of the circle, from where he was able to unleash a powerful reverse stick shot, which flew into the bottom corner.

At 2-0 down, North Down’s cup dreams appeared to be in tatters. But just as has so often been the case this season, the Comber side found another gear when it was really needed. In the remaining ten minutes of the half, the Fourths upped their game to get back in the contest, and with seconds remaining before the halftime whistle, North Down breathed some life back into their cup hopes when Peter Shields finally managed to convert a shot corner to make it 2-1.

The goal came at a crucial time for the Fourths, and with a good halftime team talk behind them, a determined North Down team took to the field for the second half, confident of overturning a one-goal deficit.

The first ten minutes of the second half where undoubtedly North Down’s best of the match with Cookstown clearly unsettled by the shifting momentum. North Down finally levelled matters through an excellent individual effort from Andrew Haire with 40 minutes gone. The goal started when Haire received the ball in a promising position on the left wing. Cookstown appeared to be well placed to deal with any danger, but Haire simply powered his way into the circle and a neat finish from a tight angle took the scoreline to 2-2. Five minutes later, North Down took the lead for the first time when defender Gavin Rogers produced a powerful shot from a penalty corner.

At 3-2, and with all the momentum for the Comber side, North Down looked to be on the verge of a remarkable comeback to win the Junior Shield. Cookstown, however, had other ideas, and just as North Down produced their best period, Cookstown began to put together their best spell of play through the middle of the second half.

Cookstown’s task was made that bit easier when North Down Captain, Matrin Moreland, was harshly yellow card without receiving a green card. Despite the protestations of the Comber side, Moreland would spend a crucial 5 minutes out of the game, which swung the contest back in the Tyrone side’s favour. As the minutes ticked by, Cookstown’s good fitness levels began to become more of a factor during an unseasonably hot April afternoon and with plenty of quality players to bring off the bench, Cookstown began to ask more and more questions of the North Down defence.

With 20 minutes to go, Cookstown found the equaliser from a penalty corner. North Down failed to clear a good initial save from Lee Brown and from only a couple of yards out, a Cookstown forward acrobatically swept the ball into the net, whilst lying on the ground. Just like the Shields’ incident in the first half, the umpire was excellently placed to disallow the goal but, as was the case in the first half, the umpire made another poor decision.

Minutes after the contest went to 3-3, Martin Moreland made a welcome return to action following his yellow card. By this time, however, Cookstown were in the ascendancy, and with 10 minutes remaining a fourth goal came for the Reds. The goal on this occasion was a good piece of Cookstown play, which North Down failed to defend against. Cookstown’s No. 18, Raymond Millar, was at the key man in this Cookstown attack. A good burst of pace from Millar saw him glide through a number of North Down challenges towards the circle. From a dangerous position, Millar then produced a pass that matched the quality of his run to find a teammate in the circle. On receipt of the pass, the Cookstown forward kept a cool head to produce a good finish past a diving Lee Brown.

Despite being 4-3 in arrears, North Down had plenty of time to take the match beyond 70 minutes. During this period a number of good openings were created but good goalkeeping from Cookstown’s Jamie Kirkpatrick kept the Tyrone side’s lead intact.

With only minutes remaining, North Down continued to stick to their passing game in search of the equaliser. Just as the final whistle was blown, North Down were given one last chance when awarded a penalty corner. Despite being unable to convert this opportunity, good play at the top of the circle and some Cookstown infringements, meant that North Down were awarded a further three penalty corners. Sadly for North Down and their travelling supporters, none of these corners could provide the equalising goal. North Down’s final penalty corner did produce an effort on goal, but when the shot flew over the cross bar, Cookstown could begin to celebrate a fantastic cup victory.

A 4-3 defeat was harsh on North Down, with the Comber men dominating most aspects of play. Crucially, however, the one department that Cookstown were clearly better was in front of goal. Cookstown’s ability to take their chances, was, ultimately, the difference between the two teams on the day.

So after a match filled with drama, it was Cookstown Captain, Richard McGaw, who was presented with the Junior Shield from UHU President, Jennifer Patterson. McGaw paid tribute to the character his team had shown and dedicated their cup win to two people connected with Cookstown Hockey Club, who had recently deceased. McGaw also praised to North Down’s efforts in making the match such a great spectacle. McGaw noted that this was the greatest test he and his team had faced all season and added that he hoped he would be able to face the Fourths in Junior 3 next season.

North Down’s Captain, Martin Moreland, also paid tribute to both teams and praised his own side for their hard work and dedication throughout the season.

Despite the result, and having the knowledge that the chances were there to win the game, North Down can take great pride in their cup run this season, which has shown that the Fourths are more than a match for the teams in Junior 3. The challenge now for Martin Moreland and his team is to ensure that a minimum of four points are achieved from the remaining three fixtures to ensure that the Fourths will be facing Junior 3 opposition on a more regular basis next season.

Finally, a special word of thanks must go to all North Down members who took the time to come to Stormont on Saturday to cheer on the team. Their support was greatly appreciated and, despite the result, they added to what was a great occasion for the players.

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:: LADIES FOURTH CLOSE TO LEAGUE TITLE

By Rachel Murray
11/04/2011

North Down 4s beat Dromore 4s 4-0 last Saturday taking them 5 points clear at the top of the league!!
North Down started off well with their usual team spirit. It was Jo Irwin who started off the scoring from a penalty corner. North down kept up the pressure and after another penalty corner Jo Irwin again took the score to 2-0. Dromore never really got a chance against the North Down keeper in the first half. With seconds to go North Down were awarded another penalty corner, everyone was up, the ball was passed through most players but it was Rachel Murray who slotted it past the keeper taking the score to 3-0 at the end of the first half.
North Down knew they had to remain tight at the back and keep the pressure on Dromore. North Down had lots of opportunities to score but it was Hilary West who got the 4th

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:: THE SATURDAY BIRTHDAY SPOT

By
10/04/2011

One day late due to technical issues.

Alain Keith 13 April
Robin McMullan 15 April

and welcome back to Northern Ireland Robin.

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:: LADIES FIRSTS JUST LOSE OUT TO GARVEY

By LC
08/04/2011

North Down ladies firsts entertained table toppers Lisnagarvey on Wednesday night in their final game of the season. Despite having no game last Saturday the Comber girls had been guaranteed safety in Senior 1 as both Dromore and Priorians were defeated. This news give North Down a no fear attitude going into their final game and with nothing to lose the Comber girls looked to put in a performance which did justice to the hockey they have played this season and show that their league position was not a fair reflection of their performances.

Coaches Haslett and Mills adopted a half court press to start the game which the visitors found difficult to break down. North Down worked hard as a unit and once the ball came over the halfway line the Garvey attack was quickly stifled as the ball carrier found herself swamped by two or three North Down players.

Garvey began to have a bit more success getting into the North Down 25” however Lauren Brown at left back continued to be more than a match for Garvey’s skilful right winger. The home side were a little unlucky to go behind half way through the first half when a challenge by Laura Clarke just outside the circle saw the ball come up and hit her shoulder. The umpire played on and despite Clarke’s efforts to put in a second challenge she appeared to be obstructed as the Garvey midfielder fired home a reverse stick shot. However this spirited North Down side did not let their heads drop and continued to frustrate Garvey who were becoming impatient at the lack of opportunities they were creating. North Down were starting to see a lot more of the ball and were having a lot of success down the wings through the pace of Zara Millar and Amy Benson. It was from one such attack that North Down got back on level terms. Slick passing down the right hand side saw the visitors caught out of position and Naomi Dawson was cool under pressure to convert Zara Millar’s cross.

This goal shocked Garvey and they came flying out of the blocks however midfielders Hannah McKee, Andrea Mockford and in particular captain Rebecca Mitchell, who covered every inch of turf, continued to prove a nightmare to break down. Garvey’s growing frustrations showed with some back chat to the umpires and continuous appeals for frees when they lost possession. As the half drew to a close and North Down began to tire the visitors were awarded a series of short corners which were well dealt with by Adrienne Da Costa and Janice Scott. However another penalty corner saw Lisnagarvey awarded a penalty stroke after the ball was adjudged to have hit Scott on the line from a deflection. Coaches Haslett and Mills and the defensive corner team were not convinced but the Garvey player made no mistake from the spot. Half time score 1-2.

In the second half North Down reverted back to their usual style of pressing and this lead to a few more attacks for the home side but no clear cut chances were created. However North Down did win their first short corner but the injection was missed timed and the chance was lost. With things very tight at the top of Senior 1 and the chance that goal difference could by vital Garvey went all out to increase their lead and for a sustained period in the latter part of the second half period the home side had to deal with wave after wave of attack. Louise Speers and Janice Scott won some crucial 50/50s and Da Costa was on top form making a number of saves. A strong run from the Garvey centre back saw her jink into the North Down circle, as she shaped to shoot Clarke’s attempt to close down the shot saw the ball deflect high off her stick and Da Costa had to be at her best to save at full stretch and stop the ball dropping under the crossbar.

After having a torrid time against Brown in the first half the visitors moved their right wing to the left in an attempt to get her into the game more but again she found herself frustrated as she was ably dealt with by Scott. Garvey had arguably their best chance late on when on one of the few occasions the left winger got the better of both Scott and Clarke but with the goal at her mercy she blazed her shot wide and the game finished 1-2.

Farmview Player of the Match Adrienne Da Costa for a number of critical saves at important stages

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:: MEN'S FIRSTS HOME DEFEAT BY BANBRIDGE

By W Reid
07/04/2011

The first eleven entertained Banbridge at Comber Leisure Centre last night with Banbridge looking for points to catch Garvey at the top and North Down looking for vital points to edge away from Bangor.
It was a sensational start for North Down as after only 2 minutes Richard Willis got the slightest of touches to a cross from Scott Caruth to score his first goal of the season. Banbridge hit back immediately and hit the post with Andy Coates stranded and then on 7 minutes from their first penalty corner equalised through a McCandless drag flick. At this stage, due to a fire alert in the Leisure Centre, the already sizeable crowd was augmented by a semi clad ladies aerobics class but undeterred the action continued on the pitch.
Banbridge missed a penalty corner at the far post but went ahead after 14 minutes with a tap in following a defensive lapse. After their rearguard display against Annadale last Saturday North Down were playing a more open game leading to chance at both ends. On 27 minutes a defensive error from David Shepherd led to an excellent save from Andy Coates but the young midfielder immediately redeemed himself when at the far end he drag flicked a penalty corner and rattled the back boards to equalise the scores at 2 – 2. Banbridge dominated the remainder of the half but there was no further scoring.
North Down opened the second half playing at half court to frustrate the Banbridge attack but they were only able to hold out until the 46th minute when another McCandless penalty corner found the back boards low to Coates’ right. Two minutes later and North Down had a short corner after the keeper had a wild swing in the air at the ball but Scotty Caruth’s effort was wide of the post. With North Down still conceding territory in the Banbridge half it was all pressure from the visitors and on 59 minutes they went two goals ahead when McCandless was left one on one with Coates and scored with ease.
Two minutes later umpire McConkey inexplicably ruled out a terrific goal from Caruth after a flash of skill at the edge of the circle beat a defender and a rocket shot gave the keeper no chance. This set back virtually decided the game as the home defense lost concentration and in the final 5 minutes unforced errors and defensive mix ups led to Banbridge scoring two more goals to make the scoreline 2 – 6, not a fair reflection on the play.
Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Andy Corry

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:: DINNER DANCE PHOTOS

By JP
06/04/2011

Apologies for the delay in getting the Dinner Dance photos onto the site. There seems to be a problem with the operation of the Galleries. No doubt the Webmaster will produce a solution shortly!

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:: DINNER DANCE NEWS

By Jim Patterson
05/04/2011

For those of you who were there last Saturday night and don't remember the announcement and for those who weren't, there will be a special theme for next year's Dinner Dance.

It will be held at La Mon on 14 April to coincide with the 100th anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic. The event will be formal and there will be a Titanic theme throughout the evening. More details once we work them all out. Email me with your suggestions, all welcome.

Meanwhile, there has been a delay due to technical issues with the camera in getting all the photos from Saturday night onto our galleries. I hope to have them on later today.

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:: FIRST ELEVEN DOUBLE HEADER ON WEDNESDAY NIGHT

By J Patterson
05/04/2011

Plenty of first eleven action on Wednesday night at Comber Leisure Centre. The ladies play Lisnagarvey at 7.15 pm and the men play Banbridge at 8.30 pm.

Come along and support your Club!

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:: MEN'S FOURTHS FALTER AT INSTONIANS

By Gavin Wilson
04/04/2011

After suffering their first defeat of the season last week, the 4th XI travelled to Shaws Bridge last Saturday looking for the win that would seal their promotion to Junior 3. The hosts Instonians 4ths currently sit in third place, just outside the promotion places. A victory for the home side was absolutely essential to maintain their hopes of catching North Down for the final promotion spot.
For the first time in a number of weeks, North Down took to the field with 11 men. However, the Comber side were without two key defenders, Phil Dorian and Gavin Rogers, who were both out due to injury and illness. Midfielder David Moreland was also unavailable due to work commitments but on the plus side Andrew Haire made a welcome return to action following a hamstring injury.
The early stages of the contest were scrappy, with North Down trying to get used to the water based surface. Both teams began to settle as the minutes ticked by, but neither side could create any clear-cut openings.
Despite both teams having periods of good possession, Instonians looked the more threatening side when they had the ball with several dangerous crosses flashing across the North Down goal. The home side looked the likeliest to break the deadlock and, with 20 minutes on the clock, they did just that. Instonians’ goal came from the first penalty corner of the match. North Down’s penalty corner defence ran out well towards the top of the circle but they were unable to stop a powerful strike which whistled into the bottom corner past keeper Lee Brown and the goal line defence.
North Down’s response to conceding the opener was a positive one with the remaining fifteen minutes of the half dominated by the away side. The Instonians’ circle was under constant pressure during this period but unfortunately no goals came during this purple patch. North Down’s best chance fell to Peter Shields near the end of the half, but the 4th XI’s Player of the Year was unable to find the back of the net on this occasion.

So it was still all to play for at half time with the scoreline at 1-0. The next goal, however, would be crucial and North Down set their stall out to get it. The away side carried their momentum into the second half with some positive play and their first penalty corner was won a result. But Instonians could breathe a sigh of relief as Shield’s shot went wide.
After North Down’s encouraging start, Instonians began to once again dominate possession. Their movement amongst the midfield and forwards created all sorts of problems for the away defence with plenty of good chances created as a result. During this period Lee Brown was at his brilliant best producing a series of excellent saves every one of which was crucial to keep North Down in the contest. A special mention must also go to Ryan Donaldson who was filling in as sweeper for Gavin Rogers. Donaldson’s reading of the game, combined with some excellent tackling, foiled a number of Instonians’ attacks.
With time running out, the away side went all out for the equaliser. On several occasions North Down forwards found themselves in promising positions, only to be let down by the final pass. Instonians continued to press themselves in search for a second goal that would kill off the contest but the North Down defence continued to hold firm. No goals came in the second half and the final whistle was therefore reached with the home side securing a 1-0 win and a valuable three points.
In truth, the 1-0 scoreline did not reflect the way a strong Instonians side, with several different faces from the team that were beaten 6-1 earlier in the season, dominated the game. North Down, however, can take some satisfaction from a fantastic defensive display, which kept the contest so tight. In particular, Lee Brown and Ryan Donaldson were central figures in North Down’s rearguard action, with both players putting in performances that were worthy of the Man of the Match award.
Attention now turns to the Junior Shield Final this Saturday where the Fourths will make the short journey to Stormont to face Cookstown 4th XI. The disappointments of recent weeks will be forgotten if North Down can rediscover the form which has taken them so far this season to achieve cup success. Push back for the final is 10.30am and any support would be greatly appreciated.
Farmview Dairies joint Men of the Match: Lee Brown and Ryan Donaldson

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:: MEN'S FIRST ELEVEN PICK UP A VITAL POINT AGAINST ANNADALE

By William Reid
04/04/2011

It might only be one point but it could prove crucial in North Down’s bid to preserve their Premier League status as the hockey season reaches its climax.
Annadale were the visitors to Comber Leisure Centre last Saturday with both teams looking for points to round off their seasons, in Annadale’s case to automatically qualify for next season’s Irish Hockey League. The Comber team, with a trio of home debutants in Colin Morrison, Stephen Forrest and Stephen Dalzell, were determined to make amends for their comprehensive defeat away to Annadale in early March and they set their stall out early in the game by conceding possession in the Annadale half to the visitors.
With North Down playing 10, and at times 11, men behind the ball Annadale concentrated on a patient approach of slow build up play but they were frustrated by a solid defensive wall behind which, playing one of his best games for the Club, goalkeeper Andy Coates was in sensational form.
It was clear that action at the Annadale end would result only from breakaways and it was from one such quick break that North Down won a penalty corner after 26 minutes had elapsed. Up stepped Scott Caruth and with a trademark drag flick high into the roof of the net gave Jonny Moore no chance to send the large home crowd into raptures. One of North Down’s failures this season has been the inability to hold onto a lead and this was again in evidence as within 50 seconds Annadale went straight up to the other end and won a penalty corner which was converted by Ian Hamilton.
So it was well and truly game on with Annadale coming to terms with the fact that this was not going to be a repetition of their easy success in March. They forced a series of penalty corners in the closing moments of the first half but just could not find a way past the superb Coates in goal.
The pattern continued as before in the second half as Annadale generated in total fifteen short corners each of which was defended stoutly by the home team. Frustration set in for the Annadale team and they allowed it to affect their play as several of their number were green carded for niggling fouls. Stephen McGimpsey and Ross Linter then both aggravated injuries during the second half as bodies were literally put on the line to preserve the 1 – 1 scoreline but the work rate of all home players was such that their absence didn’t detract from North Down’s determination to hold on for the draw.
Not surprisingly, emotions at times were raised and Tom Donnan and Annadale’s David Nicholl were sinbinned towards the end of the game. To add a further element of pressure to the North Down team and supporters Annadale then gained the last of their penalty corners just as the final whistle was blown. The rules state that play continues until the penalty corner routine is completed so the entire Annadale team moved up to the circle in a last ditch effort to get the victory. However they found the North Down defence resolute to the last and the ball was cleared to the relief of the home team.
Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Andy Coates

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:: THE SATURDAY BIRTHDAY SPOT

By
02/04/2011

Only one birthday this week:

Laura Murray 7th April

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:: FANTASY LEAGUE ACTION HOTS UP!

By Jim Patterson
01/04/2011

Karen Barker's High Voltage have extended their lead at the top of North Down's Fantasy Hockey League. Latest top 5 table after the midweek matches is:

1 High Voltage Karen Barker 468 points
2 We all dream of a team of ... Ryan Galway 452 points
3 Who cares who wins Chris Revill 444 points
4 Willis Wonderers Richard Willis 441 points
5 Abbey Albion Laura Clarke 438 points

The league will continue until all matches have been played but as some of the ladies teams have either finished or almost finished, fantasy managers will have to make the best use of their transfers to make an impact in the final month of action! So, it's all to play for!

The impressive trophy will be presented at the AGM in May.

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:: JUNIOR SHIELD FINAL - NOT AN APRIL FOOL!!!

By Jamie McKee
01/04/2011

The Junior Shield Final between North Down 4ths and Cookstown 4ths will be on 9 April at Stormont on the water based pitch as previously announced.
Just announced however is the time ..........................

10.30 am. Yes you read it right!

It's Finals day and there will be six finals in all. The early time gives us the opportunity for everyone in the Club to be there to give our support!

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:: LADIES FOURTHS VICTORY IN JUNIOR SHIELD

By Rachel Murray
31/03/2011

The ladies fourth have sailed through to the next round of the Junior Shield beating Ards thirds 3-1 last night at Comber Leisure Centre.
Meeting them for the fourth time this season Ards put out a strong side and the win was never going to be easy but North Down worked as a team and Kathy Taylor, with a pass from Jo Irwin, was quick to give the thirds the lead. Ards fought back and brought the score back to 1-1 but North Down kept their composure and after winning a penalty corner Irene McCaughan gave the thirds the lead again.

When the second half began North Down knew the lead wasn’t enough and kept pressing. With opportunities for both teams to score it was Irene McCaughan with her second goal who gave North Down the decisive lead.
Farmview Dairies Player of the Match: Kathryn Rogers

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:: Men 1st xi remaining fixtures

By robin mitchell
30/03/2011

The 1st xi game against Garvey has been changed.The following are the remaining fixtures
Saturday 2 April v Annadale at Comber 4.00
Wednesday 6 April vBanbridge at Comber 8.30
Monday 11 April v Lisnagarvey at Comber 8.00
Saturday 16 April v Bangor at Bangor

All support would be welcome

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:: MORE VITAL POINTS FOR LADIES FIRSTS

By Keith Haslett
29/03/2011

The ladies 1st XI won 4-3 in another vital match against Cookstown and are now close to maintaining their status in Senior 1. The North Down team were keen to correct the defeat in Cookstown a few weeks earlier and started the game very well.

North Down managed to convert a number of early chances with the first goal coming from good build up play by Rebecca Mitchell passing out to Zara Miller on the right wing. Zara produced a good attacking run to square the ball back to Amy Benson for a well deserved goal.
The second goal was scored from a short corner with Rebecca Mitchell scoring from the top of the circle into the bottom corner of the net. The North Down team then continued to apply more pressure to the Cookstown defence with good runs from Amy Benson down the wing.
The third goal was then taken well by Naomi Dawson after only 18 minutes of the game being played. The 3-0 scoreline at this stage of the match showed the improvement in finishing chances in front of goal but the girls then allowed Cookstown to play their way back into the game. Cookstown were allowed to score their first goal after 20 minutes with an easy run into the circle before finishing it off with a goal. The second Cookstown goal then followed after 26 minutes after some untidy hockey in the North Down circle but the North Down team then managed to keep the scoreline at 3-2 going into the break at half time.

The second half started slowly with both teams having some early exchanges. Cookstown applied some early pressure by winning a two penalty corners however the North Down keeper Adrienne Da Costa managed to pull off a couple of good saves to keep her team in front.
North Down then had a good penalty corner saved well by the Cookstown keeper on the line. The next goal came from a North Down penalty corner with Kathryn Mullin producing a good strike for Rebecca Mitchell to get the rebound off the keeper to move the scoreline to 4-2.
However, Cookstown fought hard to the end of the match with a number of penalty corners being well defended by the North Down defense. The last goal was scored by Cookstown with only 3 minutes left on the clock but North Down managed to keep their composure to win the game 4-3.

Farmview Dairies Player of the Match: Amy Benson

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:: SPECIAL DINNER DANCE OVERNIGHT RATE AT LA MON

By J Patterson
29/03/2011

La Mon Hotel & Country Club are offering a special overnight B & B rate of Ł70 for those attending Saturday's Dinner Dance. Book directly with La Mon.

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:: WEAKENED MENS FIRSTS LOSE OUT AT COOKSTOWN

By Robin Mitchell
28/03/2011

Last Saturday North Down travelled to Cookstown who had narrowly beaten them 5-3 the week before. The absence of key players was worsened by the late withdrawal of Gareth Bailie and Graeme Morrison with serious injuries which will keep them out for the remainder of the season.
For the first 25 minutes of the game North Down competed well but once Cookstown scored their confidence grew and they dominated the remainder of the game. Cookstown won an early corner but David Frazer made a fine goal line clearance. Andy Coates then saved from Barbour and then Stephen Dalzell playing his first full game for the first eleven burst through the Cookstown midfield but a fine tackle cleared the danger. At the other end, Coates made a fine stick save from a corner and good interplay between Dalzell and Black presented Donnan with a chance but his shot from the edge of the circle was saved. Still in the game at this stage, North Down had a chance when a strong run from Willis in midfield found Dalzell but his cross /shot went wide. Moore and Caruth then combined to win a corner but Caruth’s effort was wide. After 25 minutes Cookstown took the lead. The ball rebounded off the post, was not cleared by the defence and was deflected past Coates. Cookstown added a second 2 minutes later after poor marking in the circle allowed the winger to pick his spot. They added their third 5 minute before halftime from a well worked short corner. The visitors fought back when an overhead pass from Conway found Caruth but his cross was cut out and then right on half time Cookstown won a corner to score number 4.
Two minutes into the second period Cookstown got their fifth goal as play was allowed to continue when they played a high ball into the circle and the ball was smashed into the net. Six minutes later they got number 6 through Barbour. Play then swung from end to end with North Down creating a couple of chances. Firstly, Donnan blasted over the bar and then Caruth had a corner saved. In between, Coates saved from Sloan and blocked a corner. With 2 minutes remaining they scored their final goal when Coates was beaten with a strong reverse shot.
Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Stephen McGimpsey

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:: MEN'S FOURTHS' UNBEATEN RECORD FALLS

By Gavin Wilson
28/03/2011

After last week’s cup heroics last Saturday saw a return to league action for the fourths whose opponents this week were South Antrim 3rds in a top of the table clash at Nendrum College. The teams last met on the opening day of the season and the points were shared on that occasion with a 3-3 draw. Since that day both teams have won a combined 29 games to pull well clear of the pack in Junior 4. A victory for either team in this fixture would be a significant step towards winning the league title.
North Down’s task was made that bit harder in the early stages as only 10 men were available to take to the field and South Antrim made the most of the situation by taking the lead after five minutes. Some positive play through the middle found a South Antrim forward with time and space in the circle. The forward then proceeded to place a reverse stick shot into the bottom corner past a diving Lee Brown in goals to make it 1-0.
After this early setback, North Down began to settle into the contest with some attacking play of their own but the away side continued to look threatening and with 10 minutes gone they doubled their lead when a dangerous pass into the circle wasn’t properly cleared. The bobbling ball fell kindly for an away forward, who made no mistake from close range.
At this stage North Down were very much on the back foot and facing an uphill task to find any way back into the game. Following the second goal, the home side eventually got to full strength with the introduction of Peter Devlin. This gave the Comber men a desperately needed boost and this reflected in the home side’s play as they began to take control of the contest. Chances began to be created with much greater frequency and with 20 minutes gone in the opening period, the fourths got themselves on the scoreboard with a good strike from Peter Shields and five minutes later it was honours even as Peter Bond converted a good cross from close range.
At 2-2 North Down were right back in the contest, with South Antrim clearly frustrated having let a two goal lead slip. Despite further attacking play in both halves, the scoreline remained 2-2 at the half time whistle.
With so much at stake the second half was a very tight affair with the play from both sides often breaking down in a well contested mid-field. North Down, however, did manage to create a few decent chances and with ten minutes of the half gone they even had the ball in the net only for the goal to be disallowed. Worthy of note was Gordon Brown’s play on the right wing during this period. His determined running with and without the ball, in combination with some good crosses, provided the home side with real energy up front.
As the minutes ticked by, South Antrim’s numbers on the substitute’s bench became more and more significant. The away side had a constant supply of fresh legs to continue to apply pressure and with 10 minutes of play remaining a good move from the Lisburn men forced goalkeeper Lee Brown into a superb double save. In the closing stages both sides pressed hard to clinch a valuable winner and with five minutes left on the clock South Antrim took their chance. The goal began with a North Down move breaking down in midfield. From this position South Antrim broke at pace and in numbers towards the North Down goal and a good cross from the right wing found an unmarked forward in the circle, who provided a calm finish past Lee Brown.

Following the goal, a deflated North Down gave their all in search of the equaliser but South Antrim’s defense held firm to reach the final whistle with the 3-2 scoreline intact. Despite the late goal, conceding two early goals when down to 10 men proved to be decisive for North Down. The fourths, however, should be proud of the way they fought to get back into the contest, and if the disallowed goal had been awarded, the outcome could have been very different. Positives from the game were undoubtedly the play of Gordon Brown and another solid display in goal from Lee Brown.

The fourths can also be proud of a fantastic unbeaten run, which lasted exactly one year. This excellent run has seen them promoted from Junior 5 and on the cusp of doing the same in Junior 4. A victory next week will go a long way to ensure promotion and a cup final the following week means there is still plenty to play for this season.

Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Gordon Brown

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:: THE SATURDAY BIRTHDAY SPOT

By
26/03/2011

Only 1 birthday this week:
Club Vice President Norman Johnston 28 March

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:: U11 boys tournament cancelled

By Peter whyte
26/03/2011

The final tournament of the season has been cancelled again. Apologies for any inconvenience

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:: Seconds defeated by raphoe

By Pw
26/03/2011

This week the men's seconds made the long trip to Raphoe and came back empty handed having lost 5-3.

The seconds new they were in for a tough game missing several regulars and with Raphoe first having no game. The game started with Raphoe pressing and North Down adjusting to the pace of the game. However they were able to limit the scoring chances for Raphoe and it took twenty minutes for Raphoe to break through. North Down responded immediately and won a series of shorts. From one of these clever skill and a good strike from Stephen Magee saw the scored levelled. Raphoe responded and in the last ten minutes took advantage of mistakes to score two more goals to leave the half time score at 3-1.

Raphoe continued to press at the start of the second half and increased their lead early in the half. North Down responded superbly and Stuart Nicholson converted with a good reverse strike from a short corner. North Down then scored the goal of the game when good interplay from Stephen Forrest and Daniel Lavery created a chance for Adam Tate to score on his senior debut which he finished neatly. Raphoe were still causing problems to the North Down defence and they secured the points with a good fifth goal.

Man of the match was Stephen Forrest whose skills caused Raphoe problems the whole game.

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:: FINAL REMINDER - MEN'S TROPHY WINNERS LAST YEAR

By Communications Officer
25/03/2011

This is the final reminder to the men who won Club trophies last year to bring them down on Saturday so that they may be presented at next week's Dinner Dance.

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:: SATURDAY'S FEATURE GAMES

By Jim Patterson
24/03/2011

Two big matches for the first elevens this Saturday. The ladies play their latest vital game at Comber Leisure Centre at 1.00 pm against Cookstown and the men's team travel to Cookstown for a 2.30 pm hit off at Coolnafranky.

All support welcome at both matches!!

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:: Seconds gain revenge on Instonians

By PW
24/03/2011

On Saturday a nervous men’s seconds travelled to Shawsbridge to play an Instonians side who had beaten them 7-1 earlier in the season.

North Down started well against a much changed and youthful Instonians side and took the lead after five minutes when Gareth Bailie converted. The score line was doubled after eleven minutes when Keith Conway converted a penalty stroke won from a Conway short corner. Instonians were struggling with the high tempo, pressing game adopted by North Down and went further behind when Ricky McMillan finished crisply. The seconds did not have it all their way but excellent defending around the circle meant Instonians created little shooting opportunities. Going forward the Instonians defence was beinf run ragged and Bailie got his second of the game following good team play after 29 minutes.

The second half started as the first had finished with North Down on top and it took only two minutes for Colin Morrison to arrive late into the circle and score an excellent goal. The sixth goal came three minutes later when Jonny Moore scored the goal his all round play deserved. The game became scrappy at this point with North Down taking their foot of the pedal and it took them to the last minute to score their seventh when Jonny Moore converted from close to the bye-line.

An excellent team display from North Down saw them dominate this game against an Instonians side who, to the credit of their young players in particular, never stopped trying to play good hockey themselves. Man of the match went to Colin Morrison for an all action display but in truth any of the team would have been a deserving winner of this award.

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:: FIRST ELEVEN MEN JUST LOSE OUT AT GARVEY

By
23/03/2011

Playing with half a team short, the first eleven staged a fighting rearguard action away to Lisnagarvey and lost out by 3 goals to 1. The North Down goal was scored by Scott Caruth at an early short corner. Full report later.

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:: MEN'S FIFTHS EXIT MINOR CUP

By Bond ............ Peter Bond
23/03/2011

This uncensored report from Mr 003.5 himself .......

On Saturday the 5XI played host to a strong Service 4XI in the semi final of the Minor cup. With the opposition high flying in the league above and North Down's missing key personnel such as Gordy Brown and Mark Simpson added to the fact that Peter Bond and Peter Devlin already with 70 minutes under there belt for the 4XI It was always going to prove a stern test. From the opening exchanges there didn't appear to be to much between the sides as some nice passing moves in the midfield cut through the service defence and lead to an early opportunity for the home side. However Service soon showed their dominance. Effective use of the ball and fine passing was on show as at times the home team could only look on in admiration. . In the blink of a eye, the North Down were punished with three quick goals, some fortuitous, some inspirational. North Down punished too often for dallying on the ball and being static from hit outs allowing wave after wave of service pressure as North Down were left chasing the ball for the remainder of the half. North Down went in at half time 0-5, with the tie all but over. Credit must go to the young North Down side, who didn't let the heads drop and maintained a high level of energy and sportsmanship to the end. In the second half Service continued from where they left off scoring a further three goals however one of which should have been disallowed for a foot decision. North Down's woe was compounded when they lost, Gareth Bailie and George Rutherford to injury. Further to that the best chance for the home side chance fell to midfielder Ryan Donaldson, where a great North Down passing move ended up with the ball on Donaldson's stick free in the circle and 12 yards from goal, on a day that nothing seemed to be going right for North Down the ball was struck straight at the keeper.
All in all a battling display from North Down was eventually undone by a team top of the table above, and all the 5xi players can hold there heads up high as the lowest ranked team in a semi final, and what was an excellent cup run. The pressure is now back on the league, where they are 7 points behind an automatic promotion spot with two games in hand, and games against the top teams to come.

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:: LADIES 1ST XI WIN CRUNCH GAME AGAINST DROMORE

By KHaslett
22/03/2011

The ladies 1st XI travelled to Dromore on Saturday to win a crunch game in the battle to survive in Senior 1. The North Down team were feeling confident going into the game and it showed in the first 20 minutes of the game with countless attacks on the Dromore circle.
The girls played good hockey in the opening part of the game with Laura Clarke linking up well with the midfield and good movement from the forwards Benson and Miller. Selina Lewis started the game well with good marking against the Dromore midfielder and distributing the ball well down the left line.
Andrea Mockford then came on 20 minutes into game after getting off a plane from Portugal and arriving in a taxi from Belfast International Airport! Her efforts produced a well deserved first goal with a good finish from a rebound on the first short corner of the day after 31 minutes. The first goal was justice for the North Down girls after a lot of possession and territory in the Dromore half. The end of the 1st half did produce a scare for the North Down team with a rare Dromore attack nearly producing a goal with the ball gliding past the far post.
The second half started well for North Down with Hannah McKee showing alot of hard work in right midfield and Naomi Dawson holding the ball up well in the forward line. The girls produced a couple of good attacking opportunities, but failed to capitalise early on in the second half.
It was then Dromore who applied some pressure on the North Down defense, but struggled to convert a few short corners with good saves from Adrienne Da Costa.
North Down managed to close the game out after 65 minutes with a good break into the Dromore half and Kathryn Mullin scoring a good goal after a 1v1 with the Dromore keeper.
North Down defense was well organised all day and managed to keep a clean sheet for the first time this season.
The girls go into another important game this Saturday against Cookstown with a 1pm start at Comber Leisure Centre.
Farmview Player of the Match was Laura Clarke for another solid performance in defense.

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:: Seconds beat bangor in local derby

By PW
22/03/2011

Seconds Round Up

The men’s seconds have got back to winning ways with two wins against Bangor and Instonians in the last two weeks.

Two Saturdays ago the seconds faced a Bangor side that had caused them plenty of problems in the away game at Bangor. The game started off scrappily with North Down just edging play but struggling when they approached the Bangor circle. This all changed after 13 minutes when a pass from Conway to Morrison gave Morrison time to look up and find Stephen Dalzell at the back post to open the scoring. North Down pushed for further goals but again the final ball was lacking. However after 28 minutes they increased their lead when, this time, McMillan found Dalzell at the back post and he converted again. The rest of the half was scrappy with the defence of Keith Conway, Jordan Linter, Andrew McKibben and Mark Linter snuffing out any Bangor attacks.

The second half continued in the same vein as the first with North Downs pace and work rate causing Bangor problems but a lack of composure not leading to chances being created. After 56 minutes Bailie converted a broken down short corner to extend the North Down lead. Bangor then had their best period of the game and scored a short corner after 64 minutes. However any hope of a comeback was eliminated when Dalzell converted calmly at the back post again to leave the final score 4-1 to North Down.

A better performance from North Down resulting in a comfortable win. Man of the match went to Stephen Dalzell who got his reward for the hard work and effort he put into the game with a well deserved hat-trick.

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:: LADIES FIFTHS PEAK AGAINST DERG VALLEY SECONDS

By Claire Shields
22/03/2011

The ladies fifths played Derg Valley seconds last Saturday at Ards Leisure Centre with the visitors hoping and expecting to come away with at least a draw to keep their hopes of promotion alive. Derg Valley dominated the start of the first half with some strong play and North Down struggled to settle into the game. The visitors scored their first and only goal from a well taken free hit which found the right winger in the circle who finished well. From this point North Down took hold of the game and fought back strongly. Tireless running from the North Down midfield eventually resulted in a penalty corner from which Victoria Gray stepped up and scored with a magnificent strike. Just on the stroke of half time another penalty corner was won and in a variation, Victoria passed the ball straight back to Gillian Neill who was able to tap it in and make the score 2-1 at half time.
Derg Valley were more unsettled in the second half and were unable to replicate the strong performance of the first period. North Down attacked relentlessly with some excellent play up front from Jenny Ashfield and Olivia Brown. This good play was eventually rewarded 2 minutes before the final whistle when Olivia found herself one on one with the keeper and made the score 3-1.
Farmview Dairies Player of the Match: Olivia Brown.

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:: MENS FIRST ELEVEN V LISNAGARVEY

By Jim Patterson
21/03/2011

The first eleven will play Lisnagarvey at 7.30 pm at Hillsborough on Tuesday. This is the game re-arranged from last week.

All supporters welcome, see you there!

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:: EXCELLENT CUP WIN FOR MEN'S FOURTHS

By Gavin Wilson
21/03/2011

This week the 4th XI faced their toughest challenge to date as they hosted South Antrim 2nds from the league above in the Junior Shield Semi Final. With conditions just about perfect at Comber Leisure Centre, and with a sizeable crowd providing considerable support for the home side, the stage was set for a memorable encounter.

North Down’s quest for a place in the final took a massive blow in the early stages when midfielder Ross Linter was forced to come off with an ankle injury. Linter, sadly, would play no further part in the game. Our best wishes go Ross, who has experienced more than his fair share of injuries in recent seasons.

With no substitutes available, North Down had to make do with 10 men until Peter Shields arrived 10 minutes into the game. During this period, South Antrim applied tremendous pressure, creating a number of difficult moments for the home side. Only some last ditch defending kept the score at 0-0.

Holding out when shorthanded gave the Comber men a much-needed psychological boost, as South Antrim were clearly frustrated at their inability to take advantage of the situation. And the pendulum swung even further for the home side when Peter Shields brought North Down back to full strength. It didn’t take long before the Club’s record goal scorer made his presence felt as mid-way through the first half he found himself one on one with the keeper. Despite the best efforts of the onrushing keeper, Shields calmly finished to give North Down a 1-0 lead, against the run of play.

After the opening goal, the game became much more evenly contested, with both sides looking dangerous in front of goal. North Down conceded a number of penalty corners during this period, but excellent work from the defence and, in particular, keeper Lee Brown, left South Antrim still searching for their opener. At the other end North Down won a number of penalty corners of their own, but none of these could be converted either. So after 35 drama-filled minutes, North Down took a 1-0 lead going into the interval.

The second half began much like the first ended, with both teams creating openings and within five minutes of the restart, Shields scored his 40th of the season to give the home side a priceless two-goal cushion.

This second goal proved crucial, as, at 1-0, South Antrim still appeared to be the favourites. But at 2-0 the Lisburn team knew they would have to pull something special out of the bag to even reach extra time. With plenty of vocal home support coming form the sidelines, they faced an uphill task.

To their credit, South Antrim stepped it up a gear in the remaining 30 minutes. Their build up play began to look more and more threatening, with chances being created at a worrying frequency for the home side. But in a repeat performance of the first half, the North Down defence held firm, with keeper Lee Brown producing his best performance of the season just when it was needed.

To add to North Down’s woes, South Antrim’s umpire awarded a succession of penalty corners- some very generous – in favour of the away side. However, the threat from South Antrim’s corner routine was negated through a combination of heroic defending and good fortune. David Moreland, in particular, was a key man for North Down at this point. Moreland’s running out from the line blocked several strikes on goal, each block deflating an increasingly desperate South Antrim.

Sadly, after these missed opportunities, the frustration of the away side boiled over on a number of occasions, the worst incident being an attempted head-butt on a North Down forward. This behaviour has absolutely no place in hockey and it was the one disappointing aspect of what was, otherwise, a fantastic match.

With 15 minutes to go, North Down experienced another setback as defender Philip Dorian pulled a hamstring. The lack of substitutes appeared as though it could be costly to North Down, as an injured Dorian was forced to move upfront. Despite playing with effectively 10 men once again, a determined North Down continued to absorb wave after wave of South Antrim pressure. A mix of disciplined defending with the occasional piece of luck continued to frustrate the away side but with five minutes to go South Antrim ratcheted up the tension when one of their forwards fired home from a tight angle to make it 2-1.

In the dying embers of the contest, South Antrim continued to press for the equaliser and with less than 1-minute on the clock an excellent cross from the right wing looked almost certain to be converted, taking the contest into extra time. However, to the relief of the home side, the South Antrim forward managed to miss the ball completely, with the goal at his mercy. This proved to be the last action of the match with North Down hanging on for a 2-1 win.

The reward for this fantastic victory is a place in the Junior Shield Final on April 9th, where Cookstown 4th XI stands between the Fourths and cup glory.

Man of the Match: Lee Brown

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:: LADIES FOURTHS COME TOP IN LOCAL DERBY

By Rachel Murray
21/03/2011

The ladies fourths made the short trip to face local rivals Ards 3rds at Ards Leisure Centre last Saturday knowing that, as ever, they would be in for a tough game. With the Ards team top of the league and one point ahead of North Down there was pressure on both teams to get a positive result.
Hilary West got the game off to an excellent start for the visitors with an early goal to put Ards on the back foot right away. The home team then had several periods of pressure but the North Down defense held out and then it was North Down’s turn to turn the screw but the Ards keeper was in great form and kept the Comber forwards at bay.
In the second half Holly Monson added to North Down’s lead with a well fought for goal and despite further home team pressure the North Down defense held out for the remainder of the game to make the final result 2-0 to the visitors.
Farmview Dairies Player of the Match: Rachel Murray

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:: THE SATURDAY BIRTHDAY SPOT

By
19/03/2011

Club members' birthdays this week are:
Maxine Taylor 20th
Nikki Osborne 23rd
Roger Graham 24th

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:: TRIPLE CUP SEMI FINALS DAY AT ENLER PARK

By Jim Patterson
18/03/2011

It's a big day on Saturday as three men's teams all play in home cup semi finals at Enler Park. The thirds and fourths are in the Junior Shield and the fifths in the Minor Cup. The schedule is as follows:

3rd XI V Cookstown 4ths 1.00 pm
4th XI V South Antrim 2nds 2.30 pm
5th XI V Civil Service 4ths 4.00 pm
All support welcome!

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:: CRICKET CLUB WANT LADIES - NOW!

By J Patterson
17/03/2011

As reported earlier on the website, the Cricket Club want to expand their ladies team which played some games last year. Indoor nets for girls start at Nendrum College on Thursday 24 March from 7.00 pm - 9.00 pm and not in May as previously advised.

Full coaching will be given and the contacts are Ryan Haire and Alan Stevenson.

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:: DINNER DANCE

By Willie Reid
15/03/2011

The 2 April (7.30 for 8.00) is approaching rapidly. Tickets are Ł30 and available from Willie Reid. Reserve now to avoid disappointment.

There will be an announcement on the night of the special date and format for next year's dinner dance. Guesses on the guestbook please!

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:: TUESDAY NIGHT GAME WITH LISNAGARVEY - OFF!

By J Patterson
15/03/2011

The men's first eleven league game with Lisnagarvey on Tuesday has been postponed. It is likely that it will be played on next Tuesday 22 March. Confirmation of this later.

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:: Ladies 1st XI win in style against Greenisland

By KHaslett
14/03/2011

The Ladies 1st XI hosted Greenisland on Saturday in a crucial league game to survive in Senior 1. The girls were very positive going into the game and started well with a number of good passing moves. The girls managed a couple of early chances in the Greenisland circle but failed to capitalise.
Greenisland opened the scoring against the run of play by converting a short corner, which was awarded after North Down showed some indiscipline.

The girls did show great character after conceding the goal by maintaining their shape well in defense with defenders Speers, Brown and Scott giving nothing away to the Greenisland attack. This proved to be a good platform for going forward and allowed the midfield to link well with the forwards. Amy Benson gave another excellent performance linking well with Zara Miller to create a good chance in front of goal, which was saved well by the goalkeeper.
Eventually North Down scored the equaliser with Naomi Dawson scoring at the far post. The equaliser opened the flood gates for North Down as they gained confidence and scored their second goal with Zara Miller finishing well to make it 2-1, with 10 minutes to go in the 1st half.
Zara Miller then went on to score the third goal for North Down with a well worked move from the North Down team. The girls had another good chance with Naomi Dawson unlucky not to convert with the goalkeeper saving well. The girls managed to finish the 1st half at 3-1, which was well deserved after the number of chances created.

The second half started well again for North Down with a good passing display from Laura Clarke at the back. North Down gave Greenisland little opportunity to attack with Janice Scott showing great defensive skills in anticipating every pass and distributing well to complete the move.
The high level of fitness from North Down started to show as Greenisland tired near the end. The goal of the day came from another well worked move from Amy Benson and a super deflection into the roof of the net from Hannah McKee to finish the game at 4-1.
This was a well deserved result, which will give the girls the confidence they need going into another big game this Saturday at Dromore.

Farmview Player of the Match was Janice Scott for a superb performance in defense.

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:: MEN'S FIFTHS GOOD RUN CONTINUES

By Bond ................. Peter Bond!
14/03/2011

The fifths hosted Instonians last Saturday at Comber Leisure Centre in what was a tough encounter. North Down soaked up early pressure with Instonians making all the running and their nippy young wingers causing real problems for the home defense. North Down adopted a counter attacking style of play and this along with clinical finishing proved the difference between the teams early on.

The opening goal of the game came on one such counter attack. The ball broke down the middle and was played out wide to Daniel Kerr whose pass found Peter Bond deep in the circle who drove along the by-line before pulling it back to the top of the circle where Simpson was lurking, the resultant hard drive to the back post was met by the diving Jamie Hunter who tapped in from close range. The second soon followed, North Down this time playing the ball straight through the Instonians backline, a slight mix up allowed the ball to bobble through to Bond who finished from 8 yards and maintain his impressive scoring record against the visitors. The third goal looked to have killed the game. Again a good move down the left saw the ball find Bond on the by-line once again, a smart chip into the circle before a flat pass along the goal was met by Peter Devlin who made no mistake from 3 yards out. In that 10 minutes Instonians could not live with the attacking play of the home side however they recovered impressively and went on to dominate the rest of the half. They had a goal disallowed and even forced a triple save from keeper Adam Drakeley who looked to be in fine form.

The second half followed the same pattern as the first, Instonians trying everything to find a way back into the match, and eventually got their just rewards when a pinball style goal, was finished by their left midfielder. However North Down stuck to their game plan and shortly after it was 4-1 when a long ball through the middle found Devlin just outside the opposition 25 yard line, he produced a powerful run into the circle before finishing the job with a fine shot into the bottom far corner.

Instonians pressed and pressed and eventually were rewarded with a second. With time ticking down, resolute defending from North Down ensured that was the end of the scoring. A special mention must be made of Roger Graham whose hard work and fine positioning meant he never missed a tackle all game.

Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Roger Graham.

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:: SIX GOALS FOR SHIELDS AS FOURTHS HIT DOUBLE FIGURES

By Gavin Wilson
14/03/2011

Last Saturday saw a return to league action for the fourths as they hosted ten man Cliftonville 2nds at Nendrum College.
It was Cliftonville who made the brighter start with goalkeeper Lee Brown’s services required in the first few minutes. After these early warnings, North Down began to hit their stride and with 10 minutes gone Peter Shields flicked home from a tight angle to give the home side a 1-0 lead.
The opening goal clearly settled North Down as they began to apply wave after wave of pressure on the Cliftonville defense with numerous chances created. Two further goals before half time came from Peter Shields to complete his hattrick and another three goals were added through Philip Wilson (2) and David Moreland to make it 7-0 at halftime.
North Down began the second half hoping for more of the same. However, a spirited display from Cliftonville gave the home side a bit more to think about and, with only ten minutes of the half gone, Cliftonville were rewarded for their persistence when they managed to grab two consolation goals to make it 7-2.
Determined not to lose the second half, North Down lifted their play. They continued to create plenty of chances and before the final whistle three further goals were scored, with Shields picking up another two to complete a double hattrick and Philip Wilson finding the net once more to complete a hattrick of his own.

So the game finished 10-2 and North Down could be satisfied with their performance as they head into their Junior Shield semi-final clash against South Antrim 2nds this Saturday.

Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Peter Shields

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:: TIGHT FINISH FOR LADIES FIFTHS

By Lynsey Catherwood
14/03/2011

The ladies fifths made the short trip to Stormont last Saturday for a league game with Civil Service 3rds. They were under pressure immediately from the home team who started sharply but eventually they regained some control with good work from Emma Johnston, Claire Shields and Gillian Neill in midfield. Midway through the first half Service had a lucky break which left them one on one with goalkeeper Sheona Whiteside which they used to put them 1-0 up. North Down kept working hard with some lovely passing, working well as a team and kept pressure on the home defense with Nicola Hunter working tirelessly to find her way through to the circle. They were eventually rewarded with a free which was taken quickly by Gillian Neill making use of the autopass. Gillian drove the ball straight into the circle and took the opportunity to have a shot scoring well to equalise the scores at 1-1.

The second half saw both teams coming out fighting. Some lovely runs down both wings from Jenny Ashfield and Nikki Osborne kept up a supply of the ball to Nicola Hunter who was constantly putting pressure on the Civil Service defense. Her hard work paid off when she popped up to put the visitors ahead on the hour mark.
The game became quite tight as both teams sought to improve their positions but North Down allowed themselves to get frustrated with some umpiring decisions and eventually Service’s hard work paid off when they were able to steal an equaliser tying the game at 2-2.

Farmview Dairies Player of the Match: Gillian Neill

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:: U11 Tournament Postponed

By P Whyte
13/03/2011

Due to the inclement weather predicted the U11 tournament at Lisnagarvey has been postponed. Sorry for any inconvenience.

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:: THE SATURDAY BIRTHDAY SPOT

By
12/03/2011

Club members' birthdays for the coming week are:

Andrea Mockford (13th)

Matthew (A) Welsh (16th)

Andy Corry (19th)

and don't worry, no ages mentioned, even landmark ones!!

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:: SUPPORT THE LADIES 1ST XI ON SATURDAY!!!

By K Haslett
11/03/2011

The Ladies 1st XI are playing Greenisland at 2:30 this Saturday at Comber Leisure Centre.
Come along and give your support to the team!

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:: MEN'S FIRSTS LOSE OUT IN 8 GOAL THRILLER

By Robin F Mitchell
11/03/2011

North Down entertained Cookstown in a Premier League game at Comber Leisure Centre last Wednesday evening. Still hurting from the disappointing performance against Annadale the previous week North Down were determined to up their game and show their loyal supporters that they can compete with the best and that this result was a one off.

The game was played at a fast pace with play moving from end to end and both sets of defenses had to be alert to keep out the eager forwards. Cookstown were first to show winning an early corner which was easily cleared then a quick ball from Davy Frazer found Scott Caruth but he was outnumbered by defenders. Frazer was then penalised for a stick tackle but again Cookstown were unable to take advantage of the set piece.

Stephen McGimpsey made a fine clearance as Cookstown searched for the breakthough but on 7 minutes North Down got the important opener. They were awarded a corner for feet and Caruth was at his brilliant best as he smashed the ball into the roof of the net. Almost immediately Caruth found himself with a two on one but his attempted pass to the unmarked Simon Watt was not accurate enough. On 18 minutes Cookstown won a free outside the circle and their quick thinking caught out the North Down defence for Cuddy to smash the ball home from the edge of the circle. Tom Donnan made progress on the right but his pass to Watt was not controlled and the danger was cleared and just before halftime Andy Coates made three fine saves to keep the scoreline at 1-1.

The second half continued at a furious pace. Home skipper Richard Willis who was having an excellent game linked with Caruth but his effort went wide and they again combined to set up Watt for a fine goal after 40 minutes. Cookstown were awarded a corner for a dubious high clearance and equalised at the third attempt. Cooper played a through ball for Caruth but his touch let him down then Willis crossed for Watt but the keeper made a fine save. Keith Conway was playing some intelligent overheads and found Willis in space but he was fouled at the expense of a corner. Another Caruth piledriver looked goalbound but the keeper made an excellent stick save. North Down continued to press and from their next corner on 54 minutes Caruth restored their lead.

The next 6 minutes of the game were decisive as North Down not only lost the lead for the third time within seconds of Caruth’s second goal but conceded a further two. Barbour won and converted a corner for the equaliser and as North Down temporarily lost concentration three minutes later Cookstown worked the ball down the left and crossed for a simple tap in with the home defense out of position. Although Coates made a couple of fine saves he could do nothing about Cookstowns fifth on 60 minutes as the ball was smashed into the circle and hit a Cookstown stick on the way into the net. North Down fought to reduce the arrears and Conway brilliantly found Caruth unmarked in the circle but his first time effort went narrowly past with the keeper beaten. In the dying minutes Caruth should have been awarded a corner when he appeared to be obstructed but the umpire waved play on.

This was a much improved performance from North Down but unfortunately nothing to show for it as they face a difficult run in to the final league matches.
Farmview Dairies Player of the Match: Richard Willis

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:: MEN'S JUNIOR SHIELD & MINOR CUP SEMI FINALS

By Jamie McKee
09/03/2011

The thirds and fourths have avoided each other in the Junior Shield semi final draw which is:
North Down 3rds V Cookstown 4ths
North Down 4ths V South Antrim 2nds

The Minor Cup draw is:
North Down 5ths V Civil Service 4ths
South Antrim 4ths V Newry 4ths

Games will be played on 19 March. The thirds and Cookstown have already met twice in the league this season, North Down won 5 - 3 at home and lost 1 - 4 away.

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:: HOME PREMIER LEAGUE GAME AGAINST COOKSTOWN ON WEDNESDAY

By Jim Patterson
08/03/2011

The men's first eleven entertain Cookstown in an important Premier League fixture this Wednesday at Comber Leisure Centre at 8.30 pm.

As a result, men's training which is normally at this time has been cancelled however, be there to support the team.

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:: NORTH DOWN OVERRUN BY ANNADALE

By Robin Mitchell
07/03/2011

With Annadale involved in the Irish Senior Cup, last Saturday’s Premier League game was brought forward to Wednesday evening at Loughmoss. North Down had Richard Cooper and Mark Forrest unavailable and with three schoolboys involved in a Burney Cup game which went into extra time in the afternoon North Down’s resources were fully stretched. To add further to their woes their main striker Scott Caruth pulled up in the warm up with a strained calf muscle.
For the first 15 minutes North down were able to cope with the Annadale attack but once they took the lead on 15 minutes the result was never in doubt. The opening goal came from a reverse shot which flashed past Coates and their second followed shortly afterwards from a short corner. Their third came from a deflection after the ball was crashed into the circle and just before half time they added their fourth from a corner.
The second half showed a slight improvement for the visitors with Simon Watt causing the Dale defence some concern with his close controls however it was Annadale who added number five when they found space on the right and crossed for a simple tap in at the far post. Annadale completed the rout when they added the sixth with about 12 minutes remaining. In the final 10 minutes Moore had to make a smart save from Watt and then North Down won a number of corners but without Caruth and their main stopper Stephen McGimpsey who had received a yellow card for a rather innocuous challenge the threat was easily cleared by the home defence.
Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Simon Watt

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:: MEN'S FOURTH EASE INTO SHIELD SEMIS

By Gavin Wilson
07/03/2011

After a difficult Junior Shield second round tie away to Mossley 4ths, North Down fourths had the luxury of a home tie last Saturday at Comber Leisure Centre in the quarter final. Also in the home side’s favour was a welcome return of the experienced David Moreland recently recovered from a hand injury. However, the positives ended there as North Down faced a Raphoe side well placed in the league above. To add a bit of spice to the mix, the fourths began the contest in the knowledge that North Down 3rds had already progressed comfortably through to the Junior Shield semi finals.

The home side made a solid enough start to the match, but it was the Donegal side that settled best, winning the first two penalty corners of the match. However, good work from keeper Lee Brown and Philip Dorian on the line prevented the visitors taking an early lead. After a slightly nervous opening, North Down’s play began to gather momentum. They became much more threatening in opposition territory and their defence looked poised against any attacking threats. As the opening half wore on North Down began to apply pressure winning a succession of penalty corners in the process. However, North Down could not convert their growing dominance into a lead as good goal scoring chances could not be converted.
Just as North Down were starting to rue their earlier misses, the home side finally broke the deadlock through Stephen Campbell. The goal came after a dangerous cross from the right found Jamie Kitchen in the circle from where he delivered a good strike on target which the Raphoe keeper just managed to keep out. The rebound however fell kindly for Campbell and the Regent House schoolboy made no mistake from close range to make it 1-0.
Having conceded first in their previous two fixtures it was something of a novelty for the fourths to take an early lead and with this goal came a newfound confidence as they began to step up a gear in search of a second. With the final minutes of the first half ticking by North Down made the half-time oranges taste even better as Peter Shields was on hand to make it 2-0.
The home team began the second half just as they ended the first with Raphoe struggling to match the fourths in every department. North Down’s midfield of Ross Linter, Martin Moreland and David Moreland, in particular, kept the home side firmly in the box seat. Throughout the half, the Comber men created several good chances, but only one could be converted by Peter Shields to give North Down a three-goal cushion. At the other end Raphoe rarely threatened and so the final whistle was reached with the final score at 3-0.
All in all, the fourths can take great satisfaction in having produced one of their best performances in their biggest match of the season so far. After some testing moments in the opening minutes they dominated the contest and were well worth their three-goal victory.
Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Andrew McKibben

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:: EXCELLENT WIN FOR LADIES FOURTH IN CARRICK

By Rachel Murray
07/03/2011

North Down fourths travelled to Carrickfergus last Saturday for a game with their third eleven. With the intention of keeping their winning streak going, the team started strongly and confidently hoping to improve on their draw with the same team at the start of the season. Everyone worked well as a team and with beautiful passing between player of the match Kathy Taylor and Hilary West it wasn't long before Irene McCaughan started off North Down’s scoring. Shortly afterwards they went two up when Judith Orr took to score to 2-0 and when Irene McCaughan added her second goal just before the half time whistle the game was effectively over.

Carrick came back into the second half fighting and the visitors needed to stay strong and continue with their passing skills to keep possession of the ball. Hilary West made the most of a penalty corner and a poor Carrick defense to take the score to 4-0 and then Heather Kinnier was the next to test out the home defense after a lovely pass into the circle from which Heather brought the final score to 5-0.
Farmview Dairies Player of the Match: Kathy Taylor

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:: MEN'S FIFTHS PROGRESS TO MINOR CUP SEMI FINAL

By Bond .............. Peter Bond
07/03/2011

The fifths travelled to Laurelhill Sports Zone for their Minor Cup quarter final clash with South Antrim fifths last Saturday and with the sides only separated by one point in the league it was always going to be a close affair.

Playing on the gravel surface both sides were often left guessing where the ball would bounce next as North Down had to adapt their usual passing style. It was North Down who started the brighter with Ryan Donaldson breaking up play and play maker Ben Willis pulling the strings at times opening up the South Antrim defense with ease. However North Down were often left cursing the surface as the ball bobbled into feet or over the sticks of the front men. South Antrim's attack was kept quiet as they attempted to play the ball largely down the right side of midfield and Mark Simpson, who has been excellent at left back this season, proved to be solid as a rock and hardly let anything by all afternoon. South Antrim did have some joy though the middle however with the unpredictable nature of the surface letting in their attack but Adam Drakeley in the North Down goal was rarely troubled.

It was no surprise when the goal came. A long ball towards the circle bobbled over a few South Antrim sticks and Peter Devlin, who is on fire at the moment, took the ball in his stride, one step later he was inside the circle, a first time shot and the ball nestled in the back of the net! His fifth goal in three games must surely be putting him on the radar of some North Down fantasy hockey managers!

North Down continued to press and nearly doubled the lead when another spell of pressure resulted in the ball being driven across the goal mouth. The ball bounced unkindly for the South Antrim defense, Peter Bond stuck out a stick and was unlucky to see the ball bounce off the post. The ensuing goal mouth scramble resulted only in a South Antrim hit out and a narrow North Down lead at half time.
In the second half the cup tie came to life with end to end hockey but a place in the semis gradually seemed to slip from South Antrim's grasp after fine saves from Drakeley and a goal line clearance from Roger Graham.

Finally, with ten minutes remaining there was real controversy. North Down broke through Willis who slipped the ball to Daniel Kerr who beat his man before passing to Bond in the circle. Bond controlled the ball instantly and fired it home from long range however the celebrations were cut short when the umpire adjudged that the ball had struck the North Down forward’s foot first! Despite the protests a free was awarded. This let off spurred on South Antrim however North Down held on to see out the victory thus completing an excellent weekend in the cup competitions for North Down.

Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Ben Willis.

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:: LADIES 1ST XI LOSE AGAINST COOKSTOWN

By KHaslett
07/03/2011

The ladies 1st XI travelled to Cookstown on Saturday for a tight push back of 1pm and lost the game 1-0.
The ladies had a disruptive build up to the game on Saturday with a number of players having to travel long distances from Kilkeel to get to the game on time for 1pm. However, the game got underway with a slow start from both teams on the water based pitch. The North Down team struggled to get into the game with a number of simple mistakes and unnecessary fouls around their own circle.
The North Down defense managed to deal well with the pressure with Laura Clarke clearing her lines well including a number of key tackles.
The first half ended 0-0 despite the girls struggling to get into the game.

The second half started more positive with the midfield battling hard and eventually a couple of short corners being awarded. One of the corners fell to Amy Benson who finished the move well to hit the far side of the back board in the goal. Whilst the girls celebrated the goal, the umpire had decided it hit the post and gave a long corner after the Cookstown player cleared the ball from the back of the net. Whilst it must have been an optical illusion, this decision proved hard to deal with for the North Down team and managed to lose their concentration at the other end when Cookstown scored a scrappy goal with 15 minutes to go in the game.

The girls battled hard to the end of the game, but unfortunately time was against them at the end as Cookstown defended their circle well. There is no doubt that the Cookstown team better get ready for the return leg as the North Down team will have a point to prove.

The next game is Greenisland at home this Saturday, which will now prove to be the biggest game of the season for the North Down team.

Farmview Player of the Match is Laura Clarke for a solid performance at the back.

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:: MEN'S JUNIOR SHIELD DOUBLE HEADER

By Jim Patterson
04/03/2011

With the men's 1st and 2nd XIs having no league games on Saturday attention is focussed on the 3rds and 4ths who both play in the Junior Shield quarter finals at Comber Leisure Centre.

The thirds play Harlequins 3rds at 2.30 pm followed by the fourths playing Raphoe 3rds at 4.00 pm.

All support welcome!!

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:: FANTASY HOCKEY LEADERBOARD AND TEAM OF THE MONTH

By Jim Patterson
02/03/2011

The top 5 managers in our fantasy Hockey league are:
1 High Voltage - Karen Barker - 311 points
2 Who cares who wins - Chris Revill - 305 points
3 We all dream of ... - Ryan Galway - 296 points
=4 McKibben's Maestros- Andrew McKibben - 292 points
=4 Willis Wonderers - Richard Willis - 292 points

The top fantasy players, ie Team of the Month, for February are:
Adam Drakeley Goalkeeper
Ann McBride} Defense
Matthew Welsh}
Jamie Pooler}
Roger Graham}
Hilary West} Midfield
Gillian Neill}
Julie Fisher}
Peter Shields} Strikers
Ashleigh McLaughlin}
Peter Devlin}

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:: MIDWEEK PREMIER LEAGUE FIXTURE WITH ANNADALE

By J Patterson
01/03/2011

The men's 1st XI play Annadale tomorrow night at Loughmoss at 7.30 pm in a re-arranged Premier League game.

All support welcome!

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:: CHANGE OF NORTH DOWN CLOTHING RANGE BRAND

By J Patterson
01/03/2011

All Club members on the email database have been sent an email today with some details of the brand change in our clothing range.

If you have not received this email contact jim.patterson@talktalk.net

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:: LATE PENALTY SEALS POINTS FOR MOSSLEY

By Robin Mitchell
28/02/2011

North Down and Mossley met at Comber Leisure Centre last Saturday in a Premier League game of significant importance to both teams
The game swung from end to end with both sides trying to get the upper hand but it was Mossley who were first to show. They created an opportunity down their right wing but no one was on hand to get the vital touch to the cross. At the other end good interplay between Richard Willis and Tom Donnan created a half chance for Scott Caruth but he was off balance and could not get a shot on target. Mossley again attacked down the right with Simon Todd prominent but again no one could get on the end of his cross. Willis played a fine through ball for Simon Watt but he was fouled and the move broke down whilst at the other end a reverse from Brownlees flashed wide. After 15 minutes Todd was allowed to attack the circle and on his favourite reverse side blasted the ball past Coates from a wide angle.
North Down then won two penalty corners the first for a stick tackle which Caruth blasted wide and the second after a Mossley defender had been yellow carded for high sticks but this time Caruth’s effort was deflected wide. At the other end, Stephen McGimpsey played a poor ball out of defence and Coulter won a short corner for a stick tackle from which Todd scored with a weak shot which came off a defender’s stick and into the net.
Straight from the hit off at the start of the second half North Down got themselves back into the game at 1 – 2 when Gareth Bailie made a fine interception, made ground and crossed for Donnan to score from close in. Mossley then won a number of corners but the home defense held and at the other end a fine snapshot from Caruth was saved. North Down deservedly equalised midway through the half when Mark Forrest played a superb diagonal overhead to the unmarked David Sheppard who was fouled at the expense of a corner. Penalty expert Caruth smashed the ball into the roof of the net to even up the scores. With about 10 minutes remaining, Todd won a corner for Mossley and, although Andy Coates made a fine double save, the defense was unable to decisively clear the ball and when it came back in it struck a defender’s leg. John Jackson scored the resulting penalty stroke for the deciding goal. North Down were then reduced to ten men when Michael Black was yellow carded for a foul and Mossley won another corner which again was expertly blocked by Coates. North Down threw everything forward in search of the equaliser but the nearest they came was when Caruth crossed but Andy Corry missed by inches.
This was a much improved performance from the previous week’s effort against Kilkeel but still a disappointing result which leaves North Down dangerously close to the relegation area.
Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Andy Corry

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:: LADIES FOURTHS PROGRESS IN JUNIOR PLATE

By Rachel Murray
28/02/2011

The fourths travelled to play Mossley 2nds in a Junior Plate match last Friday night and produced the team performance of the weekend with an excellent 2 – 0 victory.
It was a difficult game for the visitors playing a team from two leagues above but they knew that they had to stay focused and determined. The fourths began well and set out their stall early with an excellent passing game and some strong defending. Hilary West started off the scoring in the first half with a well fought for goal and as the half progressed North Down kept to their passing game working as a team and Moseley never really had an opportunity in the first half to score.

Into the second half and knowing one goal would be unlikely to secure the win North Down came out wanting to keep defense tight and create another goal. On 45 minutes Hilary West was on hand to score a second goal to ease any pressure on the visitors. Mossley never gave up on their fight to score but an excellent team effort by North Down kept them at bay for the remainder of the game.

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:: LADIES SECONDS LOSE TO STRONG ARMAGH TEAM

By Helen McGaughey
28/02/2011

Following consecutive league wins North Down seconds came down to earth with a bump. They travelled to Armagh on Saturday for a Plate match against a talented team from the league above. From the onset they were on the back foot having to defend heavily against some clinical Armagh attacks. Goalkeeper Nikki Ferris could only hold them out for so long when some last ditch defense resulted in a penalty flick which they coolly converted. This increased the visitors’ determination and as they gained in confidence they pushed forward coming close on several occasions. A wasted opportunity at a penalty corner shows that work has to be done on this routine for the rest of the season. Once again slick Armagh passing created a two on one situation and they doubled their lead just before half time.
Heads still held high, North Down came out fighting and worked tirelessly to breakdown the Armagh defense but chances were few and far between and Armagh increased their lead with a clinical strike from their centre forward undoubtedly the best player on the pitch. Rebecca Walker twice saved off the line but a fortuitous forth goal was added from a deflection that trickled into the net. Despite the score line North Down came off the pitch knowing that on the day they had been beaten deservedly by a hugely talented Armagh team. There had been some great North Down play that was ultimately fruitless but this bodes well for the remaining league games.
Farmview Dairies Player of the Match: Nikki Ferris

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:: LADIES FIFTHS LOSE OUT TO LEAGUE LEADERS

By Lynsey Catherwood
28/02/2011

North Down 5ths entertained league leaders Queens thirds at Ards Leisure Centre last Saturday and knew they had a tough match ahead. They came out fighting well but Queens were quick to put the pressure on the home defense but excellent defending from sweeper Victoria Gray kept the visitors at bay. At the other end the fifths made some forceful attacks with Nicola Hunter working the ball up the right hand side and Emma Johnston trying to breakdown a strong Queens’ defense. The visitors eventually made the breakthrough when they scored a well deserved goal to put them 1-0 up. Soon after they were awarded a penalty corner and converted that to make it 2-0. The North Down girls didn't give up and still battled hard with some excellent runs from Gillian Neill, Claire Shields and Jenny Ashfield but they just couldn't find a way through to the students’ goal and Queens added to their tally with a third goal just before half time.

North Down came back with a much stronger second half performance and created much more in the way of scoring opportunities but again Queens, after dealing well with the pressure on their defense, broke through again and put them to 4-0 up which was the final score.

Despite the scoreline, this was a good performance from the fifths against a very strong Queens thirds side.

Joint Farmview Dairies Players of the Match - Victoria Gray and Emma Johnston

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:: MEN'S FOURTHS STILL ON TARGET FOR PROMOTION

By Gavin Wilson
28/02/2011

After a number of consecutive away fixtures last weekend saw the fourths host Portadown seconds at Nendrum College.
The home side made a sluggish start to the contest with much of the early passing well off target. Portadown, in contrast, looked a much improved team from the side that lost 9-0 in the reverse fixture earlier in the season and with five minutes gone they took a shock lead when a swift piece of play caught the hosts totally off guard. The move was finished with a neat pass from the right wing, which found a Portadown forward in acres of space in front of goal. Despite the best efforts of goalkeeper Lee Brown, the forward applied a cool finish to make it 1-0.
So just like last week in the Junior Shield, the fourths found themselves once again in arrears. But after the opening goal, North Down began to settle into the contest and find their rhythm. Mid-way through the opening half, the home side leveled affairs with a reverse stick strike from Peter Shields.
After the equaliser the Junior League 4 leaders began to dominate the contest. Shields added another two goals to his tally to notch up yet another hat-trick and Philip Wilson also found the net twice to give North Down a commanding 5-1 lead at half-time.
The home side went into the second half looking to extend their lead and go into next week’s Junior Shield quarter final with plenty of confidence. However, a combination of poor play from the hosts and a battling performance from Portadown meant that North Down could only add one goal to their tally with Jamie Kitchen the player on target. The only positive note for the Comber boys was that Portadown failed to score at the other end, although from the chances created they probably should have.
So, with a final score of 6-1, North Down maintain their position at the top of Junior League 4 but a big improvement will be required if they are to progress against Raphoe thirds in the Junior Shield quarter final this Saturday.
Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Philip Wilson

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:: LADIES 1ST XI DRAW WITH DROMORE

By K Haslett
27/02/2011

The ladies 1st XI hosted Dromore at home on Saturday in a crucial bottom of the league clash.

The North Down team got off to a very solid start with the first 20 minutes dominated by the home team in the Dromore half. The girls managed to pass the ball well and win a couple of short corners, but failed to capitalise on the possession. The Defense worked hard throughout the afternoon with very little room being given to the Dromore forwards. Laura Clarke was moving the ball well at the back and Rebecca Mitchell worked very hard despite being unwell all week.
The Dromore team were close to unlocking the North Down defense with a rare opportunity in the circle. Some untidy defending led to a good chance at the far post, but was well saved on the line by Lauren Brown.
The first half ended 0-0 despite North Down creating a number of chances and showing great hockey down the right hand side with Hannah McKee putting in another consistent performance.

The second half started well for North Down with a number of golden opportunites squandered in front of the net. The first goal came against the run of play with Dromore counter attacking up the pitch and scoring after some confusion at the top of the circle from the North Down defense. It was a dissappointing goal to concede despite the possession and chances created by North Down.
The girls did show great character in picking their heads up and working hard in the middle of the park to keep exerting pressure on the Dromore defense. The North Down goal finally came with ten minutes to go with Rebecca Mitchell setting up Andrea Mockford for a well deserved goal. Andrea has worked really all season so hopefully that goal will give her the confidence going into the last few games.
North Down did win a few short corners towards the end of the match and were very unlucky when the ball bounced over Clarke's stick for the deflection in the dying seconds of the game.

Whilst the result was dissappointing for the girls it was important to gain a point going into next week and show a strong performance at the end of the game. The girls worked hard in defense and in particular an excellent performance from Lauren Brown who gave her player nothing all day.

The girls are away to Cookstown next week in another crunch game at the bottom of the league.

Farmview Player of the Match is Lauren Brown.

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:: MEN'S JUNIOR SHIELD DRAW ANNOUNCED

By J Patterson
26/02/2011

Two home draws as the thirds and fourths avoid each other on 5 March for the Junior Shield quarter finals:

North Down 3rds V Harlequins 3rds
North Down 4ths V Raphoe 3rds

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:: TWO MORE VITAL FIRST ELEVEN GAMES

By Jim Patterson
25/02/2011

Another double header this week at Comber Leisure Centre. At 2.30 pm the ladies play Dromore and at 4.00 pm the men take on Mossley.

Both games are vital to the teams' prospects this season.

Come along and support!

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:: MEN'S MINOR CUP DRAW

By Jim Patterson
24/02/2011

The men's fifths have been drawn away to South Antrim 5ths in the quarter final of the Minor Cup. The game is scheduled for 5 March.

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:: DEVLIN HAT-TRICK AS FIFTHS DEFEAT CUP HOLDERS

By Bond .............. Peter Bond!
23/02/2011

Last Saturday saw a return to Minor Cup action for the fifths who took on defending champions Mossley fifths at Nendrum College. It was North Down who started the better with Ryan Donaldson, proving pivotal in his defensive midfield role, breaking up the play and setting up numerous attacks. North Down provided excellent width with both full backs Mark Simpson and Matthew McInnes getting well forward and Mossley had no option but to soak up the pressure. North down pressed and pressed but in a repeat of last week’s ineffective performance the end product seemed elusive.

North Down were dealt a blow after 15 minutes when Donaldson had to go off with an injury leaving Daniel Kerr to fill the gap. The first effort of note came on 20 minutes when Kerr picked up the ball in his own half and played the ball to the advancing McInnes, he in turn fed the ball to Willis who played a delightful chip down field for Brown to chase. Brown caught it with ease and played the ball into the circle. Mossley failed to clear their lines and Devlin advanced onto the ball striking it inches wide of the far post.

Moments later North Down took the lead. Another attack down the right led to Brown feeding the ball into Bond high on the touch line, Bond pulled the ball back to Devlin who fired a reverse stick shot low into the bottom corner!

North down soon doubled the lead, this time from the left when Simpson passed to Hunter who played the ball through to Devlin. Devlin made no mistake and finished well to give North Down a 2-0 lead!

North Down looked comfortable and in control and were dominating a side 16 league places above them! Always alert, first to the ball and strong in the tackle the North Down defence remained resolute but were however dealt a blow when Johnny Davidson, now looking settled in his role as centre back, got injured and had to come off. Adam Drakeley also put in an excellent half in goals blocking and deflecting every shot that came his way as he looked unbeatable. However, Mossley found a way back in through a short corner. The ball was played out to the edge of the circle but the North Down defense running one and two parted like performing Red Arrows leaving the Mossley man the simple task of touching it into the circle and striking home, even then Jamie Pooler was unlucky not to stop the ball on the line.

North Down started the second half tentatively, not letting their heads drop from the end of the first half pushed forward. However it was the Mossley midfield which looked more menacing. Still North Down remained firm and restricted Mossley to only a few forays and shots of any great note. Ben Willis worked tirelessly and formed an excellent partnership with Daniel Kerr. North Down eventually caught Mossley on the counter attack, a long ball through the middle found its way to Devlin 25 yards out he advanced into the circle and dispatched the ball home before wheeling away in celebration! A fantastic hat-trick!

Mossley however continued to press and reduced the deficit again to one goal with ten minutes to go. This resulted in a nervy few minutes however time eventually ran out for the visitors and the fifths gained an excellent win and a ticket to the quarter final of the Minor Cup.
Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Peter Devlin

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:: Ladies 1st XI narrowly lose against Victorians

By K Haslett
22/02/2011

The Ladies 1st XI hosted Victorians at home on Saturday with the girls narrowly losing 2-1.
The scoreline certainly did not reflect the game with numerous North Down chances squandered in front of the net. North Down started the game well with an early short corner being awarded and missing past the near post.
Victorians opened the scoring after 12 minutes with a scrappy exchange in front of the North Down net before a Penalty stroke was awarded and converted by Victorians.
The next 20 minutes proved frustrating for the North Down team with numerous short corners being awarded, but failing to convert the chances.
An excellent opportunity arrived after 25 minutes, but the ball skipped past the far post. The missed chances would be the story of the day with a one on one with the keeper being missed at the end of the first half.
The second half for North Down again showed some great build up play. Selina Lewis had her debut game of the season in midfield and played very well.
An early chance fell to the North Down team after 5 minutes when another one on one with the keeper being missed to the right of the net.
The best spell of hockey in the second half seen good link up play with Zara Miller and Hannah McKee with the ball being crossed into the middle and deflected past the post.
The umpire then sin binned the North Down captain for failing to keep 5 yards despite the free being taken in the wrong place. The same event then happened with the Victorians midfielder, leaving both teams with 10 players for the remainder of the game.
However, Victorians were awarded a short corner after 25 minutes and managed to convert it to make the score 2 - 0 with 10 minutes to go.
The North Down team kept going to the end with a well deserved goal by Naomi Dawson at the end of the match.
Despite countless chances in front of the Victorians net the open play from North Down was excellent and will bode well going into a crunch game with Dromore this Saturday.
I have no doubt the tide is going to turn on Saturday.......
The Farmview Player of the game is Hannah McKee for good control in midfield and great energy up and down the line.

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:: MEN'S FIRSTS DISAPPOINT AGAINST KILKEEL

By Robin Mitchell
21/02/2011

North Down entertained Kilkeel at Comber Leisure Centre last Saturday badly in need of points to get clear of the relegation battle. This game had been targeted as one where they could get a result but a below par performance saw the visitors secure a deserved away victory.
North Down were fast out of the blocks dominating the first 10 minutes of the game and a free hit in saw the ball come off a defenders foot. From the resultant corner the keeper made a save but only at the expense of another corner and this time Scott Caruth saw his effort flash inches wide. David Frazer made a run upfield and his cross flashed across goal but without anyone able to get a touch. With North Down committed to attack, Kilkeel broke quickly and Finlay chased a long ball leaving defenders in his wake. He crossed but Cunningham’s fine reverse stick effort was well blocked by Andy Coates in goal. Kilkeel took a vital lead after 20 minutes when Niblock deflected home a free and with this goal Kilkeel grew in confidence. Good interplay from the visitors saw Coates make a fine interception but with 5 minutes remaining in the half Kilkeel increased their lead when they split open the hesitant North Down defence with a neat one/two which was converted by Niblock. Almost immediately North Down created an attacking situation down the left and Michael Black’s pass found Simon Watt unmarked at the top of the circle and he hit a fine reverse shot into the net to make it 2 – 1 to the visitors at half time.
The second half brought no further scoring although both goals had narrow escapes. Kilkeel were breaking quickly from defense and were causing North Down problems. Coates had to be on his toes to make a number of saves whilst at the other end North Down’s best effort came when Willis intercepted and drove at the Kilkeel circle. However the final pass was not good enough and the danger was cleared. North Down won two corners in the last 7 minutes. Caruth’s first effort was wide but he was unlucky with his second which was deflected onto the post by a defender and cleared. It was disappointing that North Down were unable to take advantage of the fact that Kilkeel were reduced to 10 players on 2 occasions during this period.
A much improved performance is required for next week’s home game with Mossley as North Down fight for their Premier League survival.
Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Andy Coates

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:: VICTORY ON PENALTIES FOR MEN'S FOURTHS AT MOSSLEY

By Gavin Wilson
21/02/2011

Last Saturday saw a return to cup action for the fourths as they travelled to The Glade to face a Mossley 4th XI currently mid-table in the league above.
The opening half was a tight affair with both teams limited to few chances. The away side probably had the better of the play, winning the only two penalty corners awarded in the first 35 minutes, but any openings created could not be converted.
So the interval was reached without a goal at either end. North Down were disappointed not to have got their noses in front but they could be pleased that, despite having not played their best, they were still well in the game.
The opening period of the second half was a mirror image of the first, with both sets of forwards unable to find the killer pass to unlock the opposition defenses. But as the minutes ticked by North Down began to step it up a gear and create a number of attacking moves in and around the Mossley circle. Gavin Rogers, in particular, was a key man in North Down’s forward play. On several occasions his crisp passing out of defence created the platform for North Down to apply pressure.
During the second half Mossley were also able to create some threats of their own and with twenty minutes to go they broke the deadlock. The goal began when a good passing move by the home side reached the top of the circle. Despite the North Down defense having plenty of numbers at the back the Mossley forward kept a cool head as he delivered a perfect pass to a teammate in the circle who provided a neat finish on his reverse stick to beat a diving Lee Brown in goals.
After this setback North Down redoubled their efforts in search of an equaliser. They remained committed to their passing game and created several good goal-scoring opportunities. None of them, however, could be converted and with only minutes remaining it looked very much like North Down would be making an early exit from the Junior Shield as well as suffer their first defeat of the season.

In the last minute, however, the away side were given one last chance of staying in the competition when they won their third penalty corner of the match. An accurate push-out from captain Martin Moreland found Peter Shields at the top of the circle. The Club’s record scorer then opted to slip right to Andrew Haire instead of going for the direct shot. This caught the Mossley defense off guard and Haire found himself in the circle with time and space from where he laid the ball off perfectly for Shields to fire home from close range to make it 1-1.
Immediately after the goal the full-time whistle was blown. North Down had definitely got themselves out of jail, but on the balance of play they thoroughly deserved at least a draw.
With the scores level after 70 minutes it was extra time but despite creating the better openings over the additional 15 minutes North Down could not prevent the contest being decided by the lottery of penalty strokes.
Both teams kept up the early pressure by converting their first two strokes with Peter Shields and Jamie Kitchen on target for North Down. The first sign of an opening for the away side came on Mossley’s third flick when goalkeeper Lee Brown got down low to his right to make a superb save. North Down’s next two attempts, successfully converted by Ross Linter and Andrew McKibben, set the stage for Stephen Dalzell. Despite the pressure Dalzell showed great composure as he fired his flick into the bottom right hand corner to send the fourths into the next round, keeping their hopes of a league and cup double very much alive.
Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Gavin Rogers

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:: LADIES SECONDS JUST HOLD ON TO BEAT ARDS SECONDS

By Karen Barker
21/02/2011

North Down seconds continued their winning run last Saturday at Comber Leisure Centre against local rivals Ards 2nds. With 100% commitment from the whistle North Down opened confidently but made little headway against a strong Ards team. Soon the home team were put under pressure from the visitors but the Comber girls’ defense stood strong with some last ditch tackling proving effective. North Down finally settled into their stride, linking well to forge several attacks. This pressure finally paid off when an Ards hit out from their defensive circle was closed down by Charlotte McKee who hit a pin point pass to Ashleigh McLaughlin who struck the ball into the corner of the net. Despite further chances at both ends there was no further score until half time.
On the restart, Ards threw everything into their attack and made full use of their large complement of rolling substitutes determined to drain the energy levels of the 11 players of North Down. As the half progressed the Ards team were virtually encamped in the North Down half of the pitch but made little headway as frustratingly their many chances at goal were either saved by Nikki Ferris in goals or cleared by some last ditch defending. North Down’s confidence grew as the second half wore on but they only threatened the Ards goal from breakaways. In the end, this was a determined performance from the seconds who just about held onto their lead with everyone playing their part in a superb team effort but particular mention must be made of goalkeeper Nikki Ferris who was a complete rock in defense.
Farmview Dairies Player of the Match: Nikki Ferris

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:: FIRST ELEVENS' DOUBLE HEADER

By Jim Patterson
18/02/2011

Two important league matches at Enler Park tomorrow!

The ladies play Victorians at 2.30 pm and the men play Kilkeel at 4.00 pm. The games are vital to both teams. Come along and support!

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:: CLUB MEMBERS. DO WE HAVE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS?

By Jim Patterson
17/02/2011

All communications to Club members are by email. If you have not been receiving your Club Newsletter then we obviously don't have your email address or you have changed it to a new one and don't access your old one.
To get onto the database email me at jim.patterson@talktalk.net

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:: LADIES CRICKET

By Jim Patterson
15/02/2011

It may be a long long time away but the Cricket Club are hoping to further develop their ladies cricket team which played last season. Ladies coach Alan Stevenson aka 'Steensy' will be overseeing the initial practice sessions and plans to increase the number of games played this coming cricket season.
Outdoor practice at The Green starts on 13 April at 7.00 pm and indoor practice nets at Nendrum College on 4 May at 7.00 pm.
Put these dates in your diary, ladies only of course!!

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:: Seconds earn point at Cookstown

By PW
14/02/2011

On Saturday the men’s seconds made the journey to Cookstown and played out a hard fought one all draw with Cookstown.

North Down started the game the better and Stephen Dalzell had an early chance following a collision between two Cookstown players. However the Cookstown keeper made an outstanding save to stop North Down from getting the early advantage. The interplay between the North Down forwards was causing the Cookstown defence problems but a poor final pass and poor decisions meant that clear cut chances were at a premium. Cookstown were also playing well and created some half chances that were well dealt with by Matt Jordan and his defence. Shortly before the break North Down got the goal they deserved when Stephen Magee continued his scoring sequence from short corners when he converted low down at the right hand post.

The second half was a scrappy affair which seemed to suit Cookstown better. North Down were guilty of complicating their play and as a result giving possession away cheaply. However the defence was holding firm and from the one chance that Cookstown did create Jordan Linter saved superbly on the line. However with five minutes left Cookstown got the goal the deserved when a shot at a short corner was deflected in. The rest of the game was played out without incident to leave the final score 1-1.

A fair result against a decent Cookstown side but North Down will be disappointed not to have all three points. Notable performances came from Stephen Dalzell and Jordan Linter but the Framview Dairies man of the match goes to Paul Beaney who combined good marking and tackling with excellent distribution out from the back.

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:: ONE MORE SMALL STEP FOR THE MEN'S FOURTHS

By Gavin Wilson
14/02/2011

The fourths travelled to Cookstown last weekend knowing that a repeat of their impressive performance against the same team earlier in the season would see them move a step closer to promotion. But despite scoring seven goals without reply in the reverse fixture, North Down knew that they would face a much stiffer test at Cookstown High School.

North Down made a bright start to the contest with their passing game causing the home side some early problems and with ten minutes gone, it was no surprise when North Down were the first to break the deadlock. A good exchange of passes between Philip Dorian and Daniel Lavery created an opening through the Cookstown defence. Dorian completed the move with a well-placed pass to Peter Shields in the circle and Shields, who has been unstoppable all season, provided a neat finish on his reverse to make it 1-0.

Cookstown responded to this early set back by applying some pressure of their own but the North Down defence held firm. North Down then picked up where they left off and began to make regular incursions into the Cookstown circle. It was only a matter of time before the away side got a second and midway through the half they did just that. The goal started with a good passing move from North Down, which was only partially cleared by the Cookstown defence. Daniel Lavery pounced on the clearance and provided an inch perfect pass to Philip Wilson who expertly finished the move from a tight angle to make it 2-0.

For the remainder of the opening period, Cookstown began to get more of a grip on the game and right at the end of the half they won their first penalty corner. North Down, however, maintained their two-goal cushion as Dorian made a good stop on the line.

After an excellent first 35 minutes for the away side, North Down made the worst possible start to the second half. From the restart, the Tyrone side created a good passing move down the right wing the result of which was a dangerous cross into the circle. An initial save by goalkeeper Adam Drakeley ballooned up in front of the goal and a Cookstown forward managed to force his way through a number of bodies to scramble the ball home and halve the deficit.

At 2-1, Cookstown grew in confidence and became much more threatening on the attack. With Cookstown looking likely to level affairs, the game was turned on its head when a superb individual effort from Peter Shields created a goal out of nothing. The move began when Shields received a fairly innocuous pass outside the 23m line. Despite Cookstown’s defence being well placed, Shields showed a moment of true brilliance as he powered his way through a number of challenges reaching the circle at full speed. Shields then showed all his skills as he poked the ball at full stretch past the oncoming keeper to find the empty net.

Confidence was surging through the North Down side after this sensational goal as they began the search for a fourth. Cookstown, at the other end, also remained threatening and the game at this point was very open, with both teams at full stretch. It was during this period that Ross Linter, in particular, showcased his abilities. The Premier League player, on his comeback from injury, showed tremendous athleticism in midfield and his great range of passing kept North Down firmly on the front foot. Schoolboys Jamie Kitchen and Stephen Campbell also reveled in the attacking play, with Kitchen being particularly unlucky not to have added his name to the scoresheet.

Despite North Down’s excellent play, Cookstown ensured the last minutes of the game would be a tense affair. A good passing move from the centre of the pitch released a Cookstown forward towards the circle. The forward managed to evade a number of North Down defenders before unleashing a powerful shot which Drakeley could only watch as the ball whistled into the bottom corner.

With the scoreline now at 3-2, North Down maintained their concentration throughout the tricky last few minutes and saw the game out to the final whistle without further incident.

This tight win keeps North Down at the head of affairs in Junior 4 as attention now turns to the cup next week.

Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Peter Shields

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:: MEN'S FIFTHS SOMEHOW BLOW IT!

By Bond ............. Peter Bond
14/02/2011

Followers of the fortunes of the fifths will view the 0 – 1 scoreline of their fixture last Saturday at Ards Leisure Centre with a considerable amount of disbelief as the fifths dominated play virtually from start to finish.
The game was restricted to 30 minutes each half as the visitors had toured various pitches in Comber before arriving at the correct venue. With this lack of preparation by Civil Service the home team started on the front foot and remained on top throughout, the one and only missing item being a goal or six to show for it all.
There were chances aplenty. The short corner tally, whilst not literally countless, certainly reached well into double figures but a combination of excellent goalkeeping and wasteful finishing kept the scoresheet blank. George Rutherford did eventually get a shot over the line in the second half but following Service protests the ‘goal’ was disallowed.
The North Down attacks continued unabated with Matthew McInnes and Mark Simpson prompting attacks from defense down the flanks and despite the skills shown by Ben Willis and the returning Johnny Clarke the Service goal led a charmed existence. Of course the inevitable happened. With 2 minutes remaining on the clock Civil Service, in a rare incursion to the North Down half, forced the ball over the line from a quick break to complete a smash and grab for the 3 points.
Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Mark Simpson

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:: VALUABLE POINTS FOR LADIES SECONDS

By Karen Barker
14/02/2011

North Down seconds entertained Priorians 2nds, their visitors from Londonderry, at Comber Leisure Centre last Saturday. The last time these teams met the end result was a 0-0 draw and the captain was hopeful of a better result as there no changes to the North Down team that gave a sound performance the previous week. The midfield got straight to work through Nikki Reid, Selina Lewis and Jenna Hoey, with great support play for the front three of Ashleigh McLaughlin, Charlotte McKee and Eve Grimason. The first goal came through a super strike from Selina Lewis and the second by Ashleigh McLaughlin from a well struck cross from Eve Grimason on the wing.

There were several opportunities for North Down to add to their total including one from a goal mouth scramble that somehow the Priorians defence managed to clear. Only for an excellent performance from the Priorians keeper who showed great form there would have been more goals from the hosts. However, disappointedly for North Down, yet again they were unable to convert from a number of penalty corners, a feature of their game which must be improved.

The North Down defence, Rebecca Brown, Karen Barker and Rachel Mornin were never put under any sustained pressure and were able to support attacking play especially down the wings. Helen McGaughey, again at sweeper, initiated some counter attacks to involve herself in the game a little more and the only real chance of Priorians scoring was dismissed by Linda Marshall commanding her circle.
Farmview Dairies Player of the Match: Eve Grimason.

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:: La Mon Country Club--Corporate Membership

By robin mitchell
14/02/2011

La Mon Country Club are offering members of North Down Hockey Club Corporate Membership at a cost of Ł35 per month.The first month would be free and membership would be subject to an 8 month contract.
Membership would include :
- free healthcheck and programmes with an instructor
- regular programme updates and body analysis
- Unlimited access and usage of oll areas including upgraded fitness suites,pool,sauna,jacuzzi and steam
- Exercise studio and tennis courts are also included
- you will receive a la mon loyalty card giving discounts off restaurants ,bar, rooms etc.
If you are interested in taking up this offer you should contact Steven Allen at the Country Club.

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:: STICK IT! photo competition winner

By J Patterson
12/02/2011

Rebecca Nield was the winner. Check your email for the answers.

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:: MEN'S THIRDS GAME V KILKEEL 3RDS - OFF!!

By Jamie Mckee
11/02/2011

Tomorrow's game at Comber at 4.00 pm V Kilkeel 3rds has been cancelled as Kilkeel 3rds are unable to field a team. North Down 3rds beat Kilkeel 3rds 2 - 1 away earlier in the season.

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:: STICK IT! PHOTO COMPETITION

By Jim Patterson
11/02/2011

Still sorting out the thousands of entries but the winner will be announced later!

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:: Mens 1st xi Revised Fixtures

By robin mitchell
09/02/2011

The following is the up to date list of fixtures to end of season

Saturday 19 February v Kilkeel home 4.00
Saturday 26 February v Mossley home 4.00
Tuesday 1 March v Annadale away
Wednesday 9 March v Cookstown home 8.30
Tuesday 15 March v Lisnagarvey away
Saturday 26 March v Cookstown away
Saturday 2 April v Annadale home 4.00
Wednesday 6 April v Banbridge home 8.30
Saturday 9 April v Lisnagarvey home 4.00
Saturday 16 April v Bangor away

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:: Seconds win scrappy contest against Mossley

By PW
07/02/2011

On Saturday the men’s seconds entertained Mossley at Comber Leisure Centre and were extremely fortunate to come away with a 3-2 win after a scrappy hard fought game.

North Down started the game poorly as they struggles to play their normal fast paced game. The Mossley midfield and forwards created a number of chances assisted by sloppy marking from the North down defence and it was no surprise when they went 1-0 up with an excellent team goal. North Down attempted to respond but where guilty of trying to force the game too much and kept handing possession back to Mossley. Mossley made the possession count when they doubled their lead with another well worked goal. North Down knew they needed to respond quickly but were still struggling for any fluency in their play. However they were handed a lifeline when with five minutes left in the half Stephen Magee stepped up to convert a short corner with a great flick into the top right hand corner.

North Downs second half performance was improved as they began to play as they normally would. They were pressurising Mossley from the start of the half and ten minutes in Jonny Moore converted at the back post following a broken down short corner. The game then became very even with North Down dominating territory and possession but Mossley looking very dangerous on the break. With fifteen minutes left North Down completed their comeback when Stephen Magee converted another short corner. Mossley responded well and pressed the North Down side back, not helped by the North Down forwards giving the ball away cheaply when North Down did clear their lines. Mossley won a series of short corners with five minutes to go but North Down held on for the three points.

A North Down side that did not have their normal focus prior to and during to the game and it nearly cost them the three points. However they say a sign of a good team is one that wins while playing badly and that’s exactly what North Down did.

Farmview Dairies Man of the Match went to Andrew McKibben.

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:: MEN'S FIRSTS SHARE THE POINTS WITH SERVICE

By R Mitchell
07/02/2011

With both North Down and Civil Service languishing near the foot of the league table last Saturday’s Premier League game at Stormont was of significant importance to both teams.
Both sides entertained the spectators to an excellent game of hockey played in a very sporting manner. They shared 6 goals and but for some stout defence the scoreline could have been much greater.
Play flowed from end to end with both sides committed to attack. North Down started the stronger and a good run by Gareth McKeown was halted at the expense of a corner which was expertly turned round the post by the full back. North Down took the lead after 5 minutes after McKeown and Tom Donnan combined to win a corner. The initial shot was saved but the rebound struck a defender on the body and McKeown expertly converted the resulting penalty stroke. Service equalised almost immediately when Aaron Gill evaded a number of tackles before shooting past Andy Coates in goals. Service then won a corner but Coates came to the rescue with a comfortable save. After 25 minutes, Mark Forrest finally making his return to the senior squad from injury combined with McKeown to win a corner from which Scott Caruth scored. Again, within a minute Service were on level terms when Bland attacked the circle straight from the hit off and crossed for Chris Barnes to equalise. Just before halftime, Keith Conway took a quick free which found a defender’s foot and was awarded a corner. Caruth’s effort was saved at the expense of another corner and this time a switch to McKeown saw the shot go wide. Back at the North Down end with seconds remaining Gill then attacked the North Down circle and won a corner for a stick tackle which was easily cleared.
The second half continued in the same vein with both sides committed to attack. Service won a corner which was well saved before Simon Watt who was having one of his best games for the club saw his superb reverse shot crash off the post. He then had a shot saved at the expense of a corner and Scott Caruth stepped up to crash the ball into the net. An uncharacteristically poor hit out from Stephen McGimpsey then presented Service with a corner which Coates did well to save. McKeown wove his way past a number of defenders but his final shot went wide and with play continuing to be end to end it was then Bland, the Service playmaker, who won a corner on 52 minutes. The visitors’ defence made two attempts to clear the ball but at the third attempt Bland managed to shoot past Coates to bring Civil Service back on equal terms for the third time. McGimpsey made a superb goal line clearance from a corner with Coates beaten to keep north Down in the game and then as the ball flashed across goal Michael Black repeated the same heroics. In the final minutes both sides had chances to get the winner as Service won two corners which were dealt with by Coates and his defence while at the other end Gareth Bailie had a chance after a fine run by McKeown
Both sides with be disappointed not to have secured the win they so desperately needed but a draw was a fair result.

Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Simon Watt

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:: LADIES SECONDS GET A GOOD POINT AT QUEENS

By Laura Campbell et al
07/02/2011

North Down seconds started this game at The Dub against Queens seconds last Saturday knowing it would be a physically demanding match having lost by 2 goals to the same team earlier in the season.
The first half was tense with Queens having perhaps more possession. North Down though started well and within the first ten minutes an instinctive run from Helen McGaughey at sweeper fed a direct ball to Eve Grimason who strongly carried the ball up the right wing before passing into the circle where Ashleigh McLaughlin was waiting to neatly tuck the ball into the corner to put North Down a goal up. Queens came back tenaciously and the North Down defense having coped well eventually conceded an equaliser to the students to make it 1-1. Queens continued attacking the North Down defence with Nikki Ferris in goals commanding her circle well but the Queens front line was persistent and North Down soon conceded a second goal. North Down didn’t let their heads drop and kept fighting with their hard work finally being paid off with a well fought goal line scramble where Ashleigh McLaughlin once again was on hand to put the ball into the back of the net to make the half time score 2 – 2.
Both teams entered the second period in determined fashion and Queens had the best chance of the half with a shot to the bottom left corner but, luckily for North Down, Rachel Mornin reacted well to see the ball off the line. North Down fought back and won a series of short corners but unfortunately were not able to convert the many rebound efforts as the Queens defense, although scrappy at times, were able to clear their lines. Helen McGaughey in her debut as sweeper had some brilliant runs up the centre of the pitch but a lack of support meant that North Down just couldn’t convert anything into goals. The second half may have been scoreless but overall North Down’s team performance was strong with everyone showing great ability and work ethic. This was reflected in the Player of the Match award being shared between Helen McGaughey, Jenna Hoey and Ashleigh McLaughlin.

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:: EXCELLENT PLATE WIN FOR LADIES FOURTHS

By Rachel Murray
07/02/2011

The ladies fourths continued their recent run of good form with a fine Junior Plate victory over Parkview seconds, a team from two leagues higher, at Ards Leisure Centre last Saturday. However, they made it difficult for themselves as they allowed the visitors to take an early two goal lead and it took a while for the North Down team to start to get their collective act together and get their own passing game going. Eventually chances started to come their way and in the dying minutes of the first half they were given a penalty corner. With the half time whistle blown everyone up came up to the circle but it was skipper Rachel Murray who seized the opportunity to score past the Parkview keeper for her first goal for North Down to make it 1 – 2 at half time.

North Down came back into the second half with renewed vigour and with two goals disallowed it wasn't long before the fourths equalised. Hilary West made an impressive run at the Parkview defence skipping past the sweeper then slotting the ball past the goal keeper to level the scores. North Down kept fighting and, with a pass from Hilary West, Gillian Neil gave North Down the lead. North Down were then given another opportunity to score at a penalty corner and again Gillian Neil scored bringing the score to 4-2. The Player of the Match award went to a well deserved Kathy Taylor who helped to bring the team together and worked hard to create chances for North Down.

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:: LADIES FIFTHS ON THE MOVE UP!

By Claire Shields
07/02/2011

North Down 5ths played Instonians 2nds last Saturday at Comber Leisure Centre and despite the miserable weather were in bright and optimistic mood following their first win the previous week! They were also wary of an Instonians team which had beaten them heavily earlier in the season.
Once again the team started strongly on the attack and they were rewarded after ten minutes into the first half following some lovely play down the left from Shannon White and Nicky Hunter with a goal scored by Jenny Ashfield. Instonians, however, were quick on the break but the North Down defense managed to hold out until half time.
The second half started again with North Down on the attack. Instonians fought relentlessly and tensions stared to run high. Some quick passing down their right hand side by the visitors saw North Down caught out at the back and Instonians evened the scores. Both teams continued to play some lovely hockey but neither were able to break the deadlock to win the game.
Peter Shields umpired in the rain with panache thus adding another string to the ace goal scorer’s bow!
Farmview Dairies Player of the Match: Nicky Hunter

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:: Ladies 1stXI lose to Portadown

By KHaslett
07/02/2011

The ladies 1st XI made the journey to Edenvilla Park on Saturday to play Portadown in the Senior 1 league.
The North Down team got off to a slow start with Portadown hitting the post after 4 minutes of the game. The initial shock gave the North Down team a kick start to get into the game and started to show some good build up play around the middle of the pitch. An early chance came for North Down with a short corner after 8 minutes, but failed to convert.
A number of short corners were to follow for the North Down team, but the Portadown defense competed well to keep the score even after 15 minutes.
The first goal of the game was scored by Portadown after 16 minutes from a well worked short corner move. The game swayed towards the home team with alot pressure being exerted on the North Down midfield and defense. The second goal came after 25 minutes with Portadown scoring a scrappy goal with North Down failing to clear there lines.
The North Down team worked hard to half time with alot of effort from Louise Speers and Lauren Brown in defense.
The second half was a different story for North Down with early pressure being applied and Naomi Dawson narrowly missing an early chance after 2 minutes. The next chance for North Down came after 8 minutes with a good chance being missed at the back post.
The girls fought hard in the breakdown and managed to get back into the game with a goal from a short corner. Kathryn Mullin struck a good shot, which hit the post and the captain Bex Mitchell scored the rebound.
The goal gave the North Down girls the confidence they needed in the last 10 minutes, but unfortunately a late goal was dubiously scored with a high deflection by Portadown to finish the game at 3-1.
Whilst the girls lost 3-1, the coaches believe the team will start to get the points they deserve in the last number of games in the season. Some of the open play has been excellent in recent games and can only get better when the team play the weaker teams in the league.

Farmview Player of the Match was Bex Mitchell for alot of hard work and determination.

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:: IMPRESSIVE SHOW FROM MEN'S FIFTHS

By Bond ........... Peter Bond
07/02/2011

North Down fifths looked to build on their fantastic point at Mossley the previous week in the league when they hosted Saintfield seconds in the Strabane Cup at Nendrum College last Saturday.

The game started brightly, with Saintfield dictating the style of play and North Down doing all the running. Balls were crashed from one end of the pitch to the other leaving the opening exchanges resembling more of a tennis match than hockey. The first opportunity of the half fell to Saintfield when a ball up through the middle and a lay off around the 25 yard line let the Saintfield striker in on goal but fortunately for North Down he pulled his shot wide of the far post. An early let off for the home team! It was not long before North Down gradually took control of the game with the experience of astro hockey a telling factor. North Down eventually began to grow their passing game and dominate the midfield however the killer ball was still lacking. The fifths nearly paid the price for their failure to capitalize when Mark Simpson was caught in possession but again the Saintfield striker failed to hit the target.

Midway through the first half Saintfield were awarded a sideline ball in their own 25. The poor strike was seized upon by Peter Bond who ran to the by-line before cutting into the circle. With a two on one Bond slipped the ball past the defender to Ben Willis who shot past the keeper. Critics may say that the shot was goal bound but Bond tapped home a poacher’s goal to make sure of the lead.

Fluid hockey and more dominance lead to North Down gaining a succession of short corners however they failed to capitalise on any of them and 1-0 it stayed until the break.

With the confidence building North Down pushed on in the second half. Both home full backs were eager to get forward and, with the pace of Gordon Brown always a danger, Saintfield were gradually overrun in midfield.

The pressure eventually paid off when Devlin broke into the circle and, although his reverse stick shot was partly blocked by the keeper, Bond scampered after the rebound and finished from three yards thus burying the demon of a similar chance which was missed at Raphoe weeks before. Saintfield had no comeback to this and any attacks they did muster were cut out expertly by a combination of Jamie Pooler, Roger Graham and Johnny Davidson.

With Saintfield at sixes and sevens, Bond completed his hat-trick when he combined with Matthew McInnes at the top of the circle before a powerful low drive found the bottom corner. North Down made it 4 - 0 when eventually after many failures a short corner move actually worked! Simpson receiving on the edge of the circle passed inside to George Rutherford who buried his shot at the second attempt.

North Down eventually got their fifth when another good move down the right exposed more defensive weaknesses. Bond spun at the top of the circle, slid the ball past the keeper leaving Ben Willis nothing to do but turn the ball home into a open net.

This was a long awaited fantastic performance by the fifth eleven and a well earned victory.

Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Peter Bond

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:: LADIES THIRDS V OMAGH 2NDS - OFF!

By A Da Costa
05/02/2011

The ladies thirds game at Comber LC today at 1.00 pm has been cancelled as Omagh 2nds have conceded.

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:: MENS FOURTHS V CLIFTONVILLE 2NDS - OFF

By Jamie McKee
05/02/2011

The mens fourths cup game at Belmont today with Cliftonville 2nds has been cancelled as Cliftonville are unable to field a team.

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:: MEN'S TRAINING TONIGHT

By James Patterson
02/02/2011

The first and second elevens will be playing each other tonight at 8.30 pm so normal Club training has been cancelled.

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:: FEBRUARY STICK IT! NEWSLETTER

By J Patterson
02/02/2011

The February issue will be emailed this afternoon at 4.30 pm approx. Check your inboxes!

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:: Senior Ladies Training

By KHaslett
02/02/2011

A reminder for all senior ladies that training is back to normal for all teams from 1st XI to 5th XI every Wednesday night at 7pm to 8:30pm.
Please make every effort to attend.

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:: Ladies 1st XI lose to Priorians at home

By KHaslett
02/02/2011

The Ladies 1st XI hosted Priorians at home on Saturday and suffered a disappointing loss despite controlling most of the possession and territory during the game.
North Down got off to a good start to the game with alot of possession in the Priorians half and created a few chances. The girls showed good build up play at times and the defense contested well in the tackling. Bethen Brittain had a solid game after coming on at centre back with good link up play in the middle of the pitch.
However, the story of the day was the visiting team taking their chances with an open play goal coming from the right side after 15 minutes.
North Down reacted well and managed to create a few penalty corners with a Naomi Dawson goal being disallowed for 'dangerous' play.
The second half started with the girls a goal down and the team demonstrated some great phases of play down the right side with good link up play from Janice Scott and Hannah McKee. A number of chances were squandered in front of goal during open play, which was frustrating after so much possession and territory.
Priorians then scored a goal against the run of play after the defense failed to clear the ball and Priorians counter attacked into the circle for a soft goal.
Despite further pressure in the Priorians half near the end of the game, the North Down team will have to work hard on converting chances in the final third of the pitch in preparation for next week.
Player of the match is Janice Scott for a very solid game in defense.

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:: MENS FIFTHS EVENTUALLY GET A GAME (AND A POINT)!

By Bond ......... Peter Bond
01/02/2011

A Friday night trip to Mossley was a welcome return to hockey for the fifth eleven who had not had a game since 6 November! The opening exchanges highlighted the effect of the winter break with North Down looking like they were still in hibernation as they were caught out by a long ball up the middle which found a Mossley forward free in the circle who made no mistake and netted low to Adam Drakeley’s right to make it 1-0 to the home side. Chances for the away team were limited and they rarely threatened the Mossley circle. Gordon Brown showed an ability to run with the ball but unfortunately however a clear inability to pass to a team mate or indeed beat all 10 outfield Mossley men. Throughout the first half North Down proved to be frustratingly ineffective with poor passing and slack marking and it wasn't too long before Mossley had a chance again this time expertly saved by Drakeley. The best chance for North Down was a crashing ball into the circle from Simpson which just eluded Kerr at the far post. Time and time again North Down we caught out by the long ball from the back and only a combination of luck and poor finishing by Mossley kept the score 1-0 at half time.

The second half however was a different story as North Down seemed to wake up, shake off the winter induced lethargy and find a rhythm in their passing that Mossley could not handle. They became more resolute and were a different side from the first half blocking off the long ball that had proved so costly and penning Mossley back into their half. Jamie Pooler dictated play from the back as North Down switched play from left to right then right to left with ease. They grew in stature and pressed for the equalizer which came after 55 minutes. A passing move from right to left stretched the Mossley midfield and the ball was fed into Bond in space at the top of the circle who had time to turn and look up and slide the ball into the path of the onrushing Brown. A light touch round the keeper and a follow up ensured North Down were back on level terms.

North Down continued to press and certainly had the upper hand however there was not enough time on the watch to grab a winner but overall it was an excellent result for a team with so little opportunity to play recently. They now look forward to the resumption of the season with some confidence.

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:: LADIES SECONDS LOSE TO RANDALSTOWN 3RDS

By Nikki Ferris
01/02/2011

A youthful North Down second eleven travelled to Antrim on last Friday night to compete against a strong Randalstown third string. From the off North Down’s defence was under great pressure and did well to keep at bay the Randalstown attack. They held out until just before half time when Randalstown’s persistence eventually paid off with a well executed penalty corner. The second half brought more pressure from Randalstown resulting in two more goals. North Down continued to attack and had opportunities to score through Ashleigh Mclaughlin, Julie Fisher and Selina Lewis all of whom were unable to convert their chances mleaving the final score at 3-0 for Randalstown thirds.
Farmview Dairies Player of the Match: Selina Lewis.

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:: MENS 4THS V ANNADALE 5THS - 8 JANUARY

By J Patterson
01/02/2011

The points for this fixture have been awarded to North Down 4ths.

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:: Mens Seconds back to winning ways

By PW
31/01/2011

Last Saturday the men’s seconds took on Banbridge thirds in the early slot at Comber Leisure Centre and came out on top in an entertaining game by three goals to one.

North Down started the game well dominating the early stages, playing some nice hockey but not creating many chances. Any chances that were created were dealt with very well by the excellent Banbridge keeper, aided by the desire of the North Down forwards to try and blast the ball through him rather than put it around him. Banbridge were also playing good hockey and Matt Wilson had to be on his toes to clear of the line. North Down took the lead they deserved when Ricky McMillan played the ball through for Scotty Moore who nipped in front of the goalkeeper and set up Mark Forrest for a well worked goal. Colin Morrison then came to the rescue of the North Down side when he dived and deflected a shot away from goal with keeper Matt Jordan beaten.

North Down knew they would have to be more clinical in the second half and take their opportunities when they came. They applied early pressure and doubled their advantage when Stephen Magee was allowed to run to the flick spot from a short corner and he coolly dispatched the ball into the corner of the goal. Banbridge were still playing good hockey and created a couple of opportunities which Matt Jordan did well to save. Eventually the broke through and thought they were back in the game. However almost immediately North Down attacked the Banbridge circle and Stephen Dalzell ran along the bye-lime before passing to Jonny Moore, who had taken up an excellent position at the back post, and he applied the finishing touch to secure the points fro North Down.

A good game of hockey played in the right spirit by both sides. North Down played well throughout the team but the Farmview Dairies Man of the Match went to Colin Mockford who controlled the game from the back and whose distribution was excellent all game.

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:: MUCH NEEDED WIN FOR LADIES FIFTHS

By Claire Shields
30/01/2011

North Down fifths travelled to UUJ to play Mossley 3rd XI last Friday evening and with an 8-3 defeat on their last encounter fresh in their minds North Down knew they would have to up their performance levels. This they did with great attacking play from the Orr sisters, Judith and Aimee, up front who were well supported by a strong midfield. As has happened too often this season, North Down failed to capitalise on their chances and they were punished for this minutes before the half time whistle when Mossley made a break and scored.
The second half continued to be dominated by North Down play and it wasn’t long before Judith Orr got the first North Down goal of the game. With their spirits boosted, some great hockey followed and North Down attacked relentlessly with some lovely passing play. Controversially, the only penalty corner of the game was awarded to North Down and then the decision was overturned. Eventually the 5ths efforts were rewarded with Judith Orr’s second goal and the game ended a 2-1 victory to North Down.
Farmview Dairies Player of the Match : Judith Orr.

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:: LADIES FOURTHS COMPLETE A DOUBLE OVER GARVEY

By Judith Orr
30/01/2011

The ladies fourths having defeated Garvey 5ths 3 – 0 earlier in the season entertained their Lisburn visitors last Saturday in confident mood at Ards Leisure Centre. The game started off quite evenly with both sides sharing possession but it was Lisnagarvey who were able to capitalize first and go into a shock lead with a goal following a penalty corner.
North Down began to settle down after this and within five minutes won a penalty corner which was converted by Irene McCaughan. After this North Down had the majority of the play and proved that they were the team who deserved to be in front once Jo Irwin scored to give the home side the lead. Two well worked goals from Hilary West backed up by a solid all round team performance put the fourths in the driving seat leading 4 – 1 at half time

Lisnagarvey refused to give up and came back with their second goal shortly after the restart. The girls realised that a 2 goal margin was not enough to secure the win and so everyone continued to work even harder. With a controversial umpiring decision going North Down’s way, Jo Irwin put her second goal in the back of the net from a short corner. Lisnagarvey again fought back stepping up their game but the home defence remained solid with Ashleigh Gorman pulling off some great saves and Jocelyn Sturgeon, Kathryn Rogers and Irene McCaughan making some superb clearances. North Down were quick on the break and so it was no surprise when Heather Kinnear scored a sixth goal and in the last play of the match Hilary West was left free in the circle waiting for the cross to get her hatrick and make the final score 7-2!
Farmview Dairies Player of the Match: Hilary West

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:: MENS FOURTHS MARCH ON

By Gavin Wilson
30/01/2011

The fourths hosted Banbridge 5ths last weekend at Nendrum College looking to add to their impressive start to 2011.
In the early stages, a youthful Banbridge side found the Nendrum College surface very much to their liking creating a number of good openings with goalkeeper Lee Brown busier than the home side would have preferred.
As the half wore on North Down gradually gained more and more of the play and, midway through the half, goal machine Peter Shields found the net once again to make it 1-0. Further goals from Andrew Haire and Philip Wilson shortly before halftime gave the home side a three-goal cushion going into the interval.
The second half began well with both teams confidently passing the ball looking for an opening but North Down didn’t have to wait long to add to their tally when Martin Moreland fired through the keeper’s legs from close range to make it 4-0.
Despite their strong position North Down kept the foot firmly on the gas. Ross Linter, in particular, showed he was well on his way to recovery from injury as he was at the heart of play in both defence and attack. North Down found a fifth goal after a good passing move down the right wing found Andrew Haire in the circle and the forward finished nonchalantly.
To their credit, Banbridge continued to search for an opener and with 15 minutes to go they nearly got it when one of their forwards jinked his way past several North Down challenges reaching the circle with only the keeper to beat. His final touch, however, was a little heavy and an alert Brown was able to make a clearance.

With 10 minutes remaining, defender Gavin Rogers decided to make his presence felt up front and it didn’t take long for the veteran to find his range as he hit the back of the net twice to make it 7-0 and complete the scoring.
In summary, this was another solid all round performance from North Down fourths who have now won their tenth game in a row but a special mention must go to Banbridge who played the game with a great spirit right up to the final whistle.
Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Lee Brown

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:: Death of Tommy Cowan

By robin mitchell
26/01/2011

It was with deep regret that we learned of the sudden death of Tommy Cowan on Monday past.Tommy was the father of Jennifer Patterson a long serving member of the Club and current Presiden of Ulster Hockey.
We extend our sympathies to the entire family circle who have had strong ties with the Club over the years.

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:: Victory and defeat in Irish Junior Cup for Seconds

By PW
24/01/2011

The men’s seconds have had a break from Junior one for the past couple of weeks playing in the Irish Junior up against Newry and Cork Harlequins.

Playing Newry in the first round was considered a difficult challenge and so it proved to be before North Down ran out 3-2 winners. The match was the first to be played at Comber in eight weeks and the opening phase of play highlighted the rustiness of the players with North Down trying to play their normal hockey but poor passing and poor first touches meaning they could not play with their normal fluency. Newry’s more direct approach was proving dangerous on the break and they took a 1-0 lead from a short corner. North Down responded and equalised soon after with a well taken goal by Gareth Bailie. The rest of the half was a scrappy affair with the Newry goalkeeper keeping North Down at bay on a couple of occasions.

North Down started the second half with more purpose and pace to their game but were soon on the defensive when first Paul Beaney and, shortly after, Mark Linter were both given yellow cards. Following some tactical genius from manager, Jimmy Patterson, Scotty Moore was put up front and told to play high. The ploy worked when Moore was left with a one-on-one with a defender and the goalkeeper and used his pace and skill to score a delightful goal. This spurred the nine men on and excellent defensive work kept Newry at bay until numbers were equal. North Down pushed on at this point and went 3-1 in front when Morrison finished some excellent work by Dalzell and Magee, rifling home from the top of the circle. Newry showed their fighting spirit and came straight back into the game pressing North Down back and winning a series of shorts which keeper Jordan did well to save. Eventually Newry converted a short but with five minutes left North Down were able to hold on.

A scrappy but much needed game for the seconds with cob webs blown off. Man of the match was Matt Jordan who kept Newry at bay with some excellent saves in the second half.

The seconds reward for beating Newry was an away day in Cork to play Cork Harlequins. With many cry offs the North Down side had an unfamiliar look to it but after a battling performance North Down can feel aggrieved that the 6-1 scoreline flattered Harlequins.

North Down started the game on the defensive and where put under early pressure. However they weathered the storm and began to produce some good passing moves of their own. Mistakes by individuals were allowing Harlequins to create chances and they took the lead after fifteen minutes from a broken down short. North Down equalised with the best goal of the game when Stephen Magee won a free just outside the 25, drove into the circle and unleashed a spectacular shot into the top left hand corner that the keeper never even moved for. However almost immediately Harlequins gained the lead again when another error led to a good goal. Just before half time Harlequins extended their lead to 3-1 following another error.

It was a positive North Down side that took to the field for the second half but Harlequins upped their game, over running the North down team for the first twenty minutes with some excellent hockey. The defence had to be at their best to hold back the tide and the highlight of this effort was a save on the line by debutant Andrew McKibben who had a solid game throughout. However they could not stop Harlequins adding another two to make the score 5-2. North Down gradually came into the game but despite their best efforts could not score and at the end of the match Harlequins added a sixth to complete the scoring.

Good luck to harlequins in the next round and many thanks for their hospitality which was excellent. A solid display from Andrew McKibben nearly saw him win the North Down man of the match but that went to Stephen Magee who pulled the strings for North Down in an unfamiliar central midfield role.

Many thanks to Chris Revill, Willie Reid and John Shannon for driving to Cork and back in one day.

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:: MENS FOURTHS OVERCOME BALLYNAHINCH AGGRESSIVE TACTICS

By G Wilson
24/01/2011

Last weekend saw an all County Down clash as North Down 4th XI made the trip to Langley Road to face a physical Ballynahinch 2nds side looking to use their gravel hockey experience to avenge a 4-1 defeat at Comber Leisure Centre, earlier in the season.
The game started with the home side settling the best on the gravel pitch. Right from the pushback, Ballynahinch applied great pressure as North Down struggled to establish any sort of rhythm on the heavy playing surface. After five minutes it was no surprise to see the home side take the lead when a hopeful cross into the circle fell kindly for a Ballynahinch forward who unleashed a strong shot on his reverse, which managed beat the dive of North Down keeper Lee Brown.
It was the worst possible start to the game but an experienced North Down refused to panic and as the minutes ticked by in the first half the away side began to find the passing game which has served them so well all season. Midway through the opening half Ryan Donaldson found himself with time and space in midfield and he took full advantage of the situation by playing an excellent pass to Peter Shields at the edge of the circle. Shields showed his class by quickly controlling the ball on the tricky surface before driving into the circle and applying a deadly finish from a tight angle to make it 1-1.
This was just the lift North Down needed and from this point the game became very open with both teams creating some good chances. However, the turning point in the match came with five minutes to go before half time. Goals from Martin Moreland and Donaldson, both tap-ins at the back post, knocked the stuffing out of Ballynahinch who despite having had their fair share of the play found themselves trailing 3-1 into the interval.

North Down began the second half knowing that the next goal could be crucial to the overall result but just as in the first half, they again found themselves conceding early on. This time the goal was a very scrappy affair and one that the North Down defense will want to forget. Ballynahinch’s danger man, Grant Hayes took possession of the ball in midfield and hit a hopeful ball towards the North Down goal which appeared to heading over the baseline. But disaster struck as the ball was allowed to continue bobbling on its path eventually hitting the post. A Ballynahinch forward gambled on this situation arising and he was rewarded for his awareness when he tapped the rebound home to make it 3-2.
Despite this set back, North Down remained in control as they continued to apply pressure on the Ballynahinch goal, looking to restore their two-goal cushion. One major incident in the game took place with 20 minutes to go as Martin Moreland began to make a surging run through the midfield. As the North Down skipper carved his way down the left wing Hayes came in from behind with a late challenge which sent Moreland to the ground. Despite the home umpire having an excellent view of this incident, Hayes received only a green card!
North Down, clearly enraged by this injustice, delivered the perfect response as Gordon Brown fired home to make it 4-2 with 10 minutes to go. Ballynahinch threw everything into the last ten minutes but the North Down defense held firm to record their 10th victory of the season. Noteworthy performances came from schoolboy Daniel Lavery at the heart of defense and, despite some indecision regarding the second goal, keeper Lee Brown made a number of excellent stops.

The game was overshadowed somewhat by a nasty incident near the end of the match which is now under investigation by the Ulster Hockey Union. Veteran Ballynahinch defender Norman Brown struck Andrew Haire of North Down with his stick whilst the ball was in play in the opposite half. Unfortunately the incident was not witnessed by either of the umpires as it occurred off the ball and credit must go to the North Down side for keeping their composure under such circumstances. They remained focused on their hockey throughout and, in doing the double over Ballynahinch, they moved a step closer to gaining promotion and league honours this season.
Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Daniel Lavery

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:: Rearranged Premier League Fixtures

By robin mitchell
23/01/2011

February 5th v NICS away
Tuesday 1 March v Annadale away if postponed 26 February
Tuesday 15 March v Lisnagarvey away if postponed 12 March
Saturday 26 March v Cookstown away
Saturday 2 April v Annadale home
Tuesday 5 April v Banbridge home
Saturday 9 April v Lisnagarvey home
Saturday 16 April v Bangor away

Still to be arranged Mossley home

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:: Minis 23/1/11 cancelled

By P Whyte
23/01/2011

Following a pitch inspection the minis session has, unfortunately, had to be cancelled today.

Sorry for any inconvenience.

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:: MATCHES OFF TODAY

By Jim Patterson
22/01/2011

Matches off today are Mens' 1sts V Mossley, Mens' 3rds V Down 2nds and Mens 5ths V Instonians 5ths. Also off is Ladies 3rds V Banbridge 2nds. Known to be still on, at the moment, are Mens' 4ths V Ballynahinch 2nds away at 1pm and Ladies 4ths V Kilkeel 2nds at Ards LC at 1 pm.

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:: CORK TRIP FOR MENS SECONDS

By Peter Whyte
19/01/2011

The mens' seconds face Cork Harlequins this Saturday in the Irish Junior Cup and for the first time will make the journey there and back in one day. This means a slightly earlier than normal meeting time, at 5.45 am, and the team are hoping that as many Club members and supporters as possible will be there to wish them well for their trip!

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:: LADIES SECONDS JUST FALL SHORT

By Karen Barker
18/01/2011

North Down 2nds faced tough opposition in Belfast Harlequins thirds at Comber Leisure Centre last Saturday after the enforced weather and holiday break. The North Down team are a relatively young side with a fair share of experience also thrown into the mix and the younger members of the team are certainly proving their worth with each game getting that little bit stronger on the ball.
There were many eager players anticipating the first action of 2011 and throughout the game the North Down defense was under relentless pressure from the Harlequins’ attack. Although Quins made good use of their possession the visitors were unable to apply the final touch with Nikki Ferris in goals dealing with anything which made it through the Comber rearguard. Eventually Harlequins scored the opener just on the stroke of half time to end the first period deservedly 1 – 0 ahead.
Harlequins doubled their lead ten minutes into the second half with a disputed goal, the home defense claiming that the ball had not travelled the necessary 5 metres following a free on the edge of the circle. As the second half ticked on the home team gathered momentum and were only denied goals when let down by their strikers’ final touches. Eventually Ashleigh McLaughlin put North Down on the score sheet and were now chasing the goal which would give them a point but against the run of play Harlequins broke to score a third goal to secure a win. The game ended disappointingly for North down in a loss of 3-1 and they will need to be more clinical this week to guarantee points.
Farmview Dairies Player of the Match was shared between Rebecca Brown and Karen Barker

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:: DEFENSIVE ERRORS PROVE COSTLY FOR MENS FIRST ELEVEN

By Robin Mitchell
17/01/2011

Following an unprecedented eight week break due to weather and the holiday period North Down travelled to Shaw’s Bridge to play Instonians in a Premier League game.
The first half saw Instonians play the better hockey with Redpath prompting down the right however, it was North Down who created the first opportunity when Steven McGimpsey drove deep into the Inst half after intercepting the ball in his own 25 yard area. Good play from Willis won the first corner of the game but the delivery was poor and the danger was cleared by the home team. Inst then broke down the left and North Down were lucky to escape when a dangerous cross evaded all players. Poor tackling along the byline allowed Inst to take the lead after 20 minutes when William Robinson scored from a narrow angle. Almost immediately the same player doubled the Instonians lead when he scored from a short corner which went in off Andy Corry’s leg. Inst were now in full flow and North Down suffered another blow when Conway had to leave the pitch following a nasty facial injury but the visitors’ defense held out. Good play by Gareth McKeown won a short corner 10 minutes before halftime and Scott Caruth dispatched the ball into the roof of the net for his 12th goal of the season. However, all North Down’s good work was undone when, on the stroke of half time, a poor clearance from McGimpsey when under no pressure allowed Julian Lewis to restore the home team’s two goal advantage making the score at the end of the first period 3 – 1.
This in fact proved to be the final score as the second half was evenly contested with no further goals being scored. Caruth made a run into the Inst 25 and passed the ball across the circle but Graeme Morrison had not anticipated the pass and the danger was cleared. North Down won two corners but fortunately for Instonians penalty expert Caruth was not on the pitch for either. The first went wide from Sheppard and the second from McKeown was blocked. As Inst tried to clear their lines Davy Frazer intercepted but his shot was weak and easily saved by Skillen. McGimpsey had to leave the field with17 minutes remaining after being concussed following a tackle on his 25. Literally adding insult to injury he also received a yellow card for his trouble and so North Down were reduced to 10 players. Inst began to regain control and Coates who was carrying a hand injury made a fine save to keep North Down just about in the game. Frazer got a bad knock on the knee but the resultant corner was cleared and just on full time Inst won another corner but their Punjabi professional’s effort was saved.
A 3-1 win for Instonians but North Down will feel that they let the opportunity of securing a point slip from their grasp.
Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Andy Corry

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:: Mens Training

By robin mitchell
11/01/2011

Club training for the men is cancelled on Wednesday 12 January as the 1st xi have a fixture against South Antrim commencing at 8.30.

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:: GIRLS HOCKEY OFF

By ADC
10/01/2011

This may come a bit late for most, but there are currently problems with the floodlights at the leisure centre which means that girls u13 and u15 hockey will not go ahead tonight.

Apologies for any inconvenience caused.

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:: Return of youth hockey

By P Whyte
09/01/2011

Following the winter break youth hockey returns this week - weather permitting.

First up will be the U12 - U15 boys on Monday 10 January from 6.00-7.00 followed by the U12-U15 girls from 7.00-8.00.

The minis will start next Sunday (16 January) from 1.30-2.30.

All sessions at Comber Leisure Centre.

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:: LADIES CANCELLATIONS

By A Da Costa
08/01/2011

All ladies games, with the exception of the 5ths, have been postponed. There will be a decision shortly on the 5ths match.

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:: FURTHER NEWS ON SATURDAY'S MATCHES OFF

By J Patterson
08/01/2011

All of the men's matches have been postponed, in one case by the travelling team but that's another story. The ladies 5ths at Ards at 4.00 pm has also been postponed so it's a clean sweep yet again!!

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:: Annual Subscriptions

By Finance Ctte
07/01/2011

Due to the adverse weather conditions the Committee has agreed to extend the cut of date for payment of subs to 15 January 2011.
Anyone whose sub is not paid by this date will not be eligible for selection until outstanding monies are paid.

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:: SATURDAY CANCELLATIONS

By Jim Patterson
07/01/2011

Saturday's weather forecast is not promising so as soon as we know of any postponements they will be on the website. Watch this space!!

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:: 3rd XI MEN v RAPHOE POSTPONED

By P Revill
07/01/2011

The 3rds match away to Raphoe is OFF due to snow. Keep watching the website.

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:: HIBERNATION OVER??

By J Patterson
06/01/2011

All teams have games this Saturday except the ladies 2nds so it's a welcome return to hockey. The men's 1st XI play Banbridge at Enler at 4.00 pm and the ladies 1sts are away to Omagh. Enjoy!!

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:: Ladies 1st XI training resumes tonight

By KHaslett
03/01/2011

Ladies 1st XI training resumes tonight at Comber Leisure Centre.
Please be there to start at 7:45pm.

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:: MEN'S FRIENDLY AGAINST LISNAGARVEY

By J Patterson
02/01/2011

The men's first eleven will play Lisnagarvey in a friendly fixture on Monday 3 January at Hillsborough at 8.00 pm.

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:: ANNUAL HOCKEY CLUB V CRICKET CLUB MATCH

By U N Biased
01/01/2011

Charity was the winner in today's fixture between the old rivals as the Chest Heart and Stroke Association benefitted from the post match ballot to the tune of +Ł200!

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:: ANNUAL CHALLENGE MATCH

By J Patterson
30/12/2010

The annual Hockey Club V Cricket Club hockey match will be played at 2.00 pm at Comber Leisure Centre on New Years Day. Pre match warm up at The Green and post match analysis at the same venue. All welcome!!

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:: MEN'S TRAINING RESUMES 29 DECEMBER

By Robin Mitchell
29/12/2010

There will be men's training for the full Club this Wednesday from 8.00 pm - 9.30 pm at Comber LC.

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:: HOCKEY RESUMES THIS SATURDAY

By Jim Patterson
28/12/2010

Hockey resumes this Saturday for the first time in over a month with the Linden Cup Final between Cliftonville and Portadown at 2.30 pm at The Glade, Mossley.

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:: HAPPY CHRISTMAS

By S Claus
25/12/2010

Happy Christmas to all members and friends of North Down!!

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:: NEW YEARS EVE PARTY IS STILL .... GO! ....

By J Patterson
24/12/2010

In view of the current virtually tropical weather in Comber, temperature now up to minus 2, the New Years Eve Party at the Cricket Club is definitely still ON. There will be various drinks promotions etc such as Ł2 for pints, spirits and small wine from 8.00 pm - 10.00 pm, Ł1 shots from 11.00 pm - 11.30 pm. Admission only Ł5. Don't even think about the taxi to Belfast and getting ripped off. Get to The Green!!

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:: TONIGHT'S INDOOR TRAINING CANCELLED

By R Mitchell
22/12/2010

Further to the last news item, indoor training tonight has also been cancelled due to weather conditions and difficulty in accessing Comber Leisure Centre.

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:: MENS CLUB TRAINING

By R Mitchell
20/12/2010

There will be no men's outdoor training this Wednesday evening. Instead, the indoor hall at Comber Leisure Centre has been booked from 8.15 pm - 9.15 pm. Be there ready to go at 8.15!!

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:: ALL HOCKEY OFF THIS WEEKEND

By S Claus
17/12/2010

Despite the previous tropical weather this week, all hockey this weekend has just been called off by the UHU.

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:: THIS WEEKEND'S FIXTURES

By Jim Patterson
16/12/2010

Despite the current tropical weather there is likely to be a problem with fixtures at the weekend. As soon as we learn of any posponements they will be on the website here, so keep checking.

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:: XMAS SPECIAL OFFERS ON CLUB KIT AT PREMIER SPORTS

By Jim Patterson
15/12/2010

All Club members on the email database have been sent details of the Xmas discounts available on Club kit at Premier Sports. If you didn't get the email, contact me at jim.patterson@talktalk.net.

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:: XMAS SHOPPING VIA EASYFUNDRAISING

By Jim Patterson
13/12/2010

All members, don't forget......... if you are doing online shopping, go first to the Easyfundraising link on our home page and connect to the retailer via their site. It won't cost you anything and we get a small %. Siiimplees!!

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:: Minis Cancelled 12/12/10

By P Whyte
12/12/2010

Unfortunately the minis is cancelled today, once again due to a frozen pitch.

Sorry for any inconvenience.

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:: Baby girl for Martin and Danella Moreland

By Pw
11/12/2010

Congratulations to Martin and Danella Moreland - and to big sisters Emma and Chloe- on the birth of daughter Sophie Lily who was born today weighing eight pounds four ounces. Everybody doing well.

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:: ***ALL MATCHES OFF THIS WEEKEND***

By ADC
11/12/2010

The Ulster Hockey Union has today announced that due to the continued low temperatures, all matches due to be played this weekend are to be postponed.

With another cold spell expected, the Union will review the situation regarding matches on 18th Dec early next week.

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:: Ladies 1st XI Training - Saturday 11th Dec

By KHaslett
10/12/2010

Comber Leisure Centre has now declared the pitch playable.
The Ladies 1st XI squad will be training from 11:30 to 12:30 on Saturday at Comber Leisure Centre over a 1/2 pitch.

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:: Traning cancelled

By Peter Bond
08/12/2010

All training tonight (8/12/2010) is cancelled due to a frozen pitch. We all await the big thaw!

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:: Youth Hockey Cancelled

By P Whyte
06/12/2010

As you may well have guessed the youth hockey on Monday 6 Decemeber has had to be cancelled due to a frzen and snow covered pitch.

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:: Minis Hockey Cancelled 5\12\10

By P Whyte
05/12/2010

Unfortunately due to the poor weather the minis hockey for today has had to be cancelled. Sorry for any inconvenience.

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:: NEW YEARS EVE

By R Mitchell
04/12/2010

Making plans yet for New Years Eve? The same enterprising bunch who organised the Halloween Fancy Dress do are running a New Years Eve Party at the Cricket Club. 8 till late - be there!

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:: ALL WEEKEND HOCKEY POSTPONED

By Jim Patterson
02/12/2010

Not officially announced yet but ........... the UHU has postponed all hockey this weekend.

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:: Ladies Match and Mens Training Cancelled for Weds 1st Dec

By KHaslett
01/12/2010

The 1st XI ladies league game and mens training on the pitch at Comber Leisure Centre is cancelled tonight due to a frozen pitch.

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:: THIS WEEKEND'S FIXTURES

By Jim Patterson
01/12/2010

The IHA has already postponed this weekend's Irish Hockey League fixtures until after Christmas. UHU fixtures this weekend are doubtful and as soon as we get information it will be on this site. Keep watching!

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:: Youth Hockey Cancelled 29/11/10

By PW
29/11/2010

Unfortunately the youth hockey for Monday 29 November has had to be cancelled for obvious reasons. Hopefully back on next week.

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:: MEN'S AND LADIES' OUTDOOR TRAINING CANCELLED

By R Mitchell
29/11/2010

Tonight's outdoor training for men and ladies has been cancelled due to a frozen pitch.

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:: SUCCESS AT TABLE QUIZ

By Jim Patterson
28/11/2010

Congratulations to the Chairman's team Universally Challenged who won last night's Table Quiz. Check the gallery for some photos of the event.

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:: HOME GAMES FROZEN OUT

By Jim Patterson
27/11/2010

The ladies 4ths at 1.00pm and mens 2nds at 2.30pm have been postponed due to frost. The 4.00pm 1st XI game V Annadale is still on but subject to a further pitch inspection at 11.30am. It is unlikely to be on.

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:: MENS 1ST XI GAME WITH ANNADALE IS OFF!

By Jim Patterson
27/11/2010

Game postponed due to frozen pitch.

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:: All Youth Hockey Cancelled 28/11/07

By PW
27/11/2010

Unfortunately all youth hockey is cancelled tomorrow due to the poor weather. This includes the minis, U13 & U15 boys and U15 girls.

Sorry for any hassle.

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:: ONE DAY LEFT UNTIL THE TABLE QUIZ!

By Fundraising Officer
26/11/2010

Just over 24 hours to go and it's TABLE QUIZ time. Your last chance to get a team sorted if you haven't already. 7.30 pm at the Cricket Club, and remember ..... NO MOBILES!

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:: GOOD WIN FOR THIRDS IN LOCAL DERBY

By Paul Revill
23/11/2010

The thirds were at home last Saturday for their derby match against Junior 3 league leaders Civil Service thirds and were hoping to bounce back after their previous week’s defeat to end the visitor’s unbeaten run.

The game started positively for the home side as they gained early possession and looked the dominant side. A change of formation for North Down saw them starting with a 4-4-2 line up in an attempt to strengthen the midfield and as a result Simon Murray started to dominate the middle of the park. Civil Service slowly came into the game trying to press North Down back using a long ball tactic to their centre forward who was proving a key player for the away side. As the thirds continued to dominate the first half a short corner strike from Sam Pyper came close but was just wide of the target. Ryan Galway played his role at left mid to perfection pushing forward working hard to help the forward line but the final efforts all stalled at the edge of the circle.

The first goal of the game was scored after 20 minutes of play through a North Down defensive error which Service made the most of. The goal lifted the away side as they started to make the most of their possession and a poor tackle from Paul Revill inside the 25 gave Service another scoring opportunity through a short corner but Andy Walls was sharp off the line to block the shot. North Down were unphased by the visitors’ efforts which were easily dealt with by the home defense and their equalizer came just before the end of the half. An excellent passing movement ended with Steven Dalzell slotting home from the edge of the circle to give the home team a positive end to the half.

The second half began with exciting end to end play with both teams pushing forward looking to get ahead in the game however the Service forward line made little impact on a strong North Down defense. Time for a tactical change and the home team reverted to 4-3-3 adding a third forward which had an immediate impact as they were more effective in the 25 creating more chances. Sam Pyper soon added a second with a flicked shot placed with precision following a good ball into the circle from Andrew McKibben. To their credit, Service kept themselves in the game by pushing forward and pressurizing the North Down midfield and they were finally rewarded with an equalizer when their striker made the most of a defensive error to finish calmly past Darren Rodgers. With the scores equal North Down still looked the better side with Mark Shannon in particular torturing the Service defense with his skillful ball control. The thirds went ahead again with a solo effort from Simon Murray, his first for the Club, when his strike was slotted through the defence and the goalkeeper’s legs. Almost immediately, Civil Service had a great chance to equalize with a goal mouth scramble but they couldn't convert from a yard out.

To complete a solid North Down performance Sam Pyper put the game beyond the visitors’ reach with a fourth, and his second, goal when he beat the Service centre back and skillfully took the ball round the sliding keeper to finish from a tight angle. The game ended disgracefully for the visitors as M Johnston from Civil Service was red carded for a head butt on skipper Paul Revill. In the ensuing confrontation Andy Walls of North Down received a yellow card for attempting to break up the melee.

Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Simon Murray

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:: Mens Seconds Defeat Bangor

By PW
22/11/2010

On Saturday the seconds took on a Bangor side just behind them in the league and emerged victorious by five goals to two.

Bangor started the game well and keeper Matt Jordan had to come of his line on several occasions to smother any danger. However the pressure finally told and Bangor took a deserved lead after ten minutes from a short corner. This goal seemed to wake North Down out of their slumber and immediately from the push back Gareth Bailie drove up the pitch evading several Bangor challenges to set up Mark Forrest for a tap in on his return from injury. North Down where then guilty of missing two golden chances as their forwards began to cause the Bangor defence problems. Eventually North Down went two one up when Mark Forrest, again, converted at the back post. The score remained like this to half time.

Bangor started the half well again and they made it two all after fifteen minutes when poor marking at the top of the circle led to a well taken goal. North Down pushed hard after this but lacked their normal fluency. With ten minutes left North Down got the goal they deserved when Mark Forrest completed his hat-trick with a clever dink round the keeper. The older Bangor team where now tiring and North Down seized control of the game with Stephen Magee scoring with a great reverse strike and Scotty Moore finishing off after the personal duel between Gareth Bailie and the Bangor keeper was won by the Bangor keeper.

North Down not at their most impressive in this game but more than happy to take the points against a Bangor side who played their part in an entertaining game. Hard not to give the Farmview Dairies Man of the Match to the hat-trick hero, Mark Forrest, but he was just shaded by Gareth Bailie whose work rate and skill level caused the Bangor team constant problems and he also took part in the first recorded rolling maul in hockey.

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:: MENS FOURTHS UNBEATEN RUN CONTINUES

By Gavin Wilson
22/11/2010

Last Saturday the fourth eleven travelled to play Cliftonville seconds at CIYMS looking to consolidate their position at the top of the league.
North Down had the best of the early exchanges with several penalty corners won in the first ten minutes none of which could be converted. But with the possession that the away side were maintaining it was only a matter of time before the deadlock was broken and mid-way through the first half a good passing move down the right resulted with a cross into the circle which Peter Shields finished from close range to make it 1-0.
Cliftonville tried to settle into the game after the opener but North Down continued to pile on the pressure looking to double their advantage. With 10 minutes to go before the interval a good cross from the left found the stick of Martin Moreland who deflected the ball into the net to make it 2-0.
After the second goal the home side began to exert some pressure of their own and they were rewarded for their efforts with the award of a penalty corner. Cliftonville, however, could not take advantage of the set piece for, despite a powerful shot from the Cliftonville forward, keeper Lee Brown was more than equal to the challenge producing a smart save. Cliftonville continued to press, but they couldn’t find a chink in the North Down defence and the score remained 2-0 at halftime.
North Down started the second half eager to make a fast start and finish off the game. Good passing and movement throughout the team put Cliftonville firmly on the back foot and goals from Shields and Shannon made the game safe with over 20 minutes still to go.
After the fourth goal some of the Cliftonville side lost their discipline with a number poor challenges and heated exchanges. To their credit, North Down remained unfazed by their disruptive opponents and their fifth goal was the perfect riposte. Martin Moreland received the ball from the left on the run and delivered an inch perfect pass to Shields who had made a clever run towards the top of the circle. Shields took one touch before unleashing a superb strike which flew into the bottom left corner to complete his fourth hat-trick in as many games. The goal also took Peter’s tally for the season to 20 and it is surely only a matter of time before the Club’s record scorer reaches the 300 mark!
Not content with a 5-0 scoreline, North Down continued to pass their way around the opposition and Cliftonville conceded a sixth and final goal when Philip Wilson managed to scramble the ball home at the back post. This proved to be the last action of the match as the floodlights were turned off a few minutes before the final whistle. The fourths, in contrast, continue to light up the league with yet another impressive display.
Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Peter Shields

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:: Ladies 1st XI narrowly lose to Victorians

By KHaslett
22/11/2010

The ladies 1st XI traveled to Victorians on Saturday and narrowly lost 1 - 0. The team was missing some key players on Saturday, but the team showed good character to keep battling to the end of the game.

The first half was mainly dominated by the Victorians team with a alot of pressure being exerted on the North Down defense. The North Down team had to be well organized in defense with a number of good crosses coming into the circle from the Victorians players.

However, Victorians scored the first goal after 24 minutes with another good cross from a set piece into the circle and a deflection into the top corner of the net. North Down did create a couple of clear chances in front of the net with a shot going wide from the top of the circle and a deflection going past the far post.

The North Down team started the second half the better side with Laura Clarke providing some good link up play from the centre of defense. The captain Rebecca Mitchell also showed great work ethic in the centre of midfield and started to control the game. Victorians went down to 10 players after a shocking tackle on Rebecca Mitchell, which led to a yellow card for the Victorians player. This gave the North Down team confidence in moving forward into the Victorians circle and managed to win their first short corner of the game.

The corner was well worked with Laura Clarke hitting the post from a deflection, but the North Down team struggled to gain any further chances towards the end of the game. The team showed good character to the final whistle, but failed to capitalise on good chances to gain some valuable points.

The ladies now travel to Dublin on Saturday to get the season back to winning ways against Clontarf in the Irish Cup, which starts at 2pm.

Farmview Player of the Match is Laura Clarke.

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:: BAD DEFEAT FOR MENS FIRSTS IN KILKEEL

By Robin Mitchell
22/11/2010

Kilkeel got themselves of the bottom of the Premier League table with a convincing 4-0 victory against a weakened North Down side who were without three regulars at Kilkeel last Saturday. Kilkeel were up for the game from the start and were quicker to the ball than their visitors but they also had the ability to retain the ball for longer periods than their opponents whose passing was poor and who gave the ball away with regularity.
Early in the game Andy Coates in goals was called into action and had to make a block then Stephen McGimpsey gave the ball away but the ball was cleared. Gareth McKeown won a corner for feet but Caruth’s effort, North Down’s only penalty corner in the game, was saved by the keeper. At the other end Kilkeel won a free outside the circle and as the ball was played in Holmes got the slightest of deflections to put his side ahead. Two minutes later and the home side increased their lead as, although Coates made a fine save from a corner, the ball broke to Finlay who slammed it home. Kilkeel broke down play at every opportunity and North down could not get any fluency to their play.
In the second period Coates had to make two early saves whilst at the other end McKeown had a reverse effort saved. Another Kilkeel corner was cleared before North Down eventually enjoyed their best spell in the game. Andy Spratt broke clear but his cross failed to pick out a North Down player and then Kilkeel were reduced to 10 players after a bad tackle. The visitors were unable to make effective use of the extra man although McKeown had a fine effort blocked by the keeper. However, with the home team back to full strength and with 7 minutes remaining, against the run of play Kilkeel got their third and decisive goal. Coates made a save but the ball broke kindly to Finlay who found the net from the edge of the circle. North Down heads were down at this stage and Kilkeel added a fourth when a cross from the right was deflected home by Niblock. Andy Corry for North Down received a yellow for a moment of indiscretion and then Coates had to make two fine saves to prevent the home side from increasing their lead. In the end Kilkeel ran out easy winners to record their first three points of the season and increase the pressure at the bottom end of the table.
An improved performance will be required this week from North Down for the visit of Annadale who themselves are recovering from a shaky start to the season.
Farmview Dairies Man of Match: Stephen McGimpsey

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:: FANTASY HOCKEY LEAGUE TABLE

By Jim Patterson
18/11/2010

The top 5 in the latest league table is:
Pypes Pro XI Sam Pyper 115 points
Willis Wonderers Richard Willis 110 points
Who cares who wins Chris Revill 110 points
McKibbins Maestros Andrew Mckibbin 109 points
High Voltage Karen Barker 109 points

In last place, moving up to -4 points, is TEAM KICKASS 'managed' by Andrea Mockford!

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:: WOODWORK DENIES MENS FIRSTS IN DUBLIN

By Robin Mitchell
16/11/2010

North Down travelled to Dublin on Saturday to play Leinster side Dublin YMCA in the first round of the Irish Senior Cup. The Dublin side are currently playing in the Irish Hockey League so everyone was very aware of the difficult task ahead as they left Comber.
It was YM who started the stronger and a mistake by Keith Conway after 4 minutes allowed them to take the lead. Conway was caught in possession and the ball was crossed for a simple tap in. North Down slowly clawed their way back into the game and they equalised after 10 minutes when Frazer won the ball deep in his own half and fed Richard Willis. A quick pass from Willis caught the YM defence upfield and left Andy Spratt with a clear run in on goal. He expertly crashed the ball into the net with one of his favourite reverse shots. Play became tied down in midfield with neither side able to create clear chances. With 10 minutes remaining in the half the game finally burst into action. Graeme Morrison who was having a solid game in midfield won a corner and Scott Caruth was unlucky to see his effort crash off the crossbar to safety. Almost immediately, YM won a corner at the other end, they switched the ball around at the top of the circle but the shot was high and the danger was cleared. Just before halftime a strong run by Johnny Moore won another corner for North Down but again Caruth had no luck, his effort this time striking a post. At halftime it was 1 – 1.
The second half was full of action and goals. Andrew Coates was called into action to make a clearance and then Andy Spratt received a yellow card for disputing a corner. While North Down were reduced to 10 men YM took the lead when North Down missed a number of tackles and Walker had a simple tap in. YM were passing the ball quickly around the pitch and Coates made a fine save whilst at the other end Corry broke into the circle but lost his balance as he was about to shoot and his effort was easily cleared. A superb overhead pass from Stephen McGimpsey found Caruth on the right wing and his first time cross just evaded Donnan in front of goal. After 20 minutes YM extended their lead to 3 – 1 with a fine shot from the top of the circle but North Down did not lie down and were rewarded for their persistence when Caruth won a corner. His initial effort was saved but at the third attempt he blasted the ball into the net to reduce the deficit to a single goal. YM came straight up the pitch and won a penalty when Conway was penalized for clearing with the wrong side of the stick but the YM penalty struck the post. With 8 minutes remaining YM increased their lead from a corner when the ball was squeezed into the corner of the net with Corry wrong footed. North Down immediately fought back and 3 minutes later Caruth reduced the arrears with his second goal when he finished off a fine move with a piledriver to set up a grandstand finish. North Down went all out for the equaliser but the YM defence held firm to progress to the second round.
This was an excellent game of hockey played in a good spirit and showed that the Comber team can hold their own with the best in Ireland. A stern test though lies ahead this weekend when they travel to face bottom of the table Kilkeel in a vital Premier League match.
Farmview Dairies Man of Match: Graeme Morrison

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:: MENS SECONDS ALMOST HOLD GARVEY SECONDS

By Jim Patterson
16/11/2010

The second eleven narrowly lost 2 – 1 at home to Lisnagarvey seconds, one of the perennial stalwarts of Ulster junior hockey. The strong Garvey team totally dominated the first half and had the North Down side on the back foot with an excellent display of possession hockey. However, very much against the run of play, North Down went ahead when a powerful shot from Richard McMillan was well saved by the Garvey keeper but rebounded to Andrew Shannon who crashed it home. Garvey continued to press and the home goal led a charmed life with Matthew Jordan pulling off save after save but he was eventually beaten five minutes before halftime with a shot from close in which gave him no chance.
The second half saw more of the same with the excellent work rate of the home team frustrating their, on paper, more experienced opponents. Stephen Forrest had a great opportunity to put North Down back in front with a one on one on the Garvey keeper but the chance was missed. Garvey forced a series of short corners but Jordan in nets dealt with them all coolly diverting shots past the post and over the bar. He was finally beaten with 15 minutes remaining with another shot from close in and, despite continual pressure from the home team who never conceded the game in any way, Garvey held out to claim all three points.
Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Matthew Jordan

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:: SHIELDS HATTRICK SECURES FOURTHS VICTORY

By Gavin Wilson
15/11/2010

The table topping fourths came into last Saturday’s fixture in terrific form having won their previous two matches by a combined score of 16-0. This time however, North Down faced a serious challenge to their title aspirations with the visit of Lisnagarvey 6ths – a side that has provided the fourths with a number of stern tests in recent seasons.
Both sides were cagey in the opening period, with neither team finding their rhythm straight away, but as the minutes ticked by North Down began to settle with several good spells of possession in opposition territory. The home side’s early dominance was rewarded when they converted their first penalty corner. A good push out from Martin Moreland found Peter Shields at the top of the circle and Shields took advantage of the time and space he found himself in to fire a powerful shot that whistled into the bottom left corner.
This opening goal gave the Comber men a real boost and for the next ten minutes North Down were on the front foot, creating a number of excellent chances none of which were converted.
After the home side failed to extend their lead, an experienced Garvey side sensed the tide turning and began to create some openings of their own. It was not long before they were rewarded for their attacking play when a cross from the left found its way to the back post where a Garvey forward managed to steer home for the equaliser. A second goal quickly followed when another opposition forward received a pass at the edge of the circle before coolly slotting home to give his side the advantage going into the break. The momentum was clearly with the Hillsborough side at this point and the interval came at a good time for North Down.
During the halftime team talk, skipper Martin Moreland made it very clear that the home side would have to up their game considerably to obtain a result. The target for the second half was a couple of goals and a clean sheet and in the end that’s exactly what the North Down side delivered.
North Down hit their stride immediately after the restart. The midfield and forward lines were in total control and began to exert tremendous pressure on the away defence. North Down made their possession count by winning several penalty corners and Shields, who was once again in top form, showed some clean hitting from the top of the circle to score twice and complete yet another hat-trick, his third in as many games, and give the home side the lead again.
At 3-2, with 10 minutes remaining, Garvey began to pile on the pressure but the home defence, excellently marshaled by Gavin Rogers and Phil Dorian, was never troubled with keeper Lee Brown’s services not required.
Passions boiled over near the end of the contest with both sides having a player sent off but North Down remained calm and reached the final whistle without further incident to record a key victory in their quest for the league title.
Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Peter Shields

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:: LADIES SECONDS LOSE OUT TO QUEENS

By Karen Barker
15/11/2010

Last Saturday North Down seconds faced tough opposition in Queens seconds at Comber Leisure Centre. The first half saw both teams playing attacking hockey right from the start with good positive play at each end of the pitch. North Down's defence was the one most under pressure as the Queens team utilized their passing game well. Throughout the first half North Down managed to hold out and were dangerous at times with the midfield linking well up to the forwards. Although both teams had their chances to score it was Queens who went ahead midway through the first half with a deflection from a penalty corner. Play was held up for a period when feisty defensive work by Laura Campbell resulted in her taking a nasty ball to the face but thankfully, after a couple of minutes recovery, she was able to continue. Coming up to half time North Down continued with some solid play and were unfortunate not to have equalised by half time.

Going into the second half North Down knew they had the skill and determination to get something out of the game. Attacking play down both flanks led to a number of breakthroughs to the Queens defensive circle. Although the North Down forwards seemed to be well positioned they were unable to convert these opportunities to goals. While North Down were pushing for the equaliser, Queens made a break which resulted in a goal scored from an unstoppable shot. Time began to run out for the home team and while the North Down defense soaked up any Queens pressure there was still a positive attitude in the team. At the stroke of full time some fabulous play allowed Keri Burnside to have a great chance to get North Down on the scoreboard, but was unable to take advantage of her one on one with the Queens keeper with her shot going shy of the net. The end result for North Down was disappointing but the seconds are going through a rough patch at the moment which will hopefully change as their work ethic and skill cannot be questioned. Certain aspects of their game need working on and this will be addressed in training.

Farmview Dairies Player of the Match: Laura Campbell

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:: TOUGH AWAY WIN FOR LADIES FOURTHS SECURES TOP PLACE

By Rachel Murray
15/11/2010

The ladies fourths made the short trip to play local rivals Saintfield 2nds last Saturday in Junior Six knowing that their league leading position could be threatened by a Saintfield team in third place. Not used to playing on a gravel pitch North Down took a while to get the pace of the game against a very physical home team. They soon began to find their players however and it didn't take long to get shots firing at the Saintfield keeper.

Jo Irwin put the fourths deservedly ahead with a strike from a perfectly worked penalty corner and the visitors kept up the pressure on the Saintfield defence when an assist from Jo Irwin gave Hilary West the opportunity to double the score to 2-0 just before half time.

Saintfield came back fighting in the second half but were constantly denied by the North Down defence, lead by player of the match Rachel Murray. Saintfield’s one and only shot on target against Ashleigh Gorman in the second half reduced the deficit to 2-1 but North Down held on well for the rest of the match with a good tight defensive performance to see them consolidate their position at the top of the league.

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:: Ladies 1st XI lose against Lisnagarvey

By KHaslett
15/11/2010

The Ladies 1st XI travelled to Lisnagarvey on Saturday and lost 4 – 0 to the league leaders. The North Down team started the match well with a good contest in the first 20 minutes of the game. The North Down team worked hard against the Garvey players and created some good chances in the early spell. Garvey also managed a couple of early opportunities with several short corners being defended well by the North Down team.

However, Garvey broke the deadlock after a couple of simple errors in the North Down defence, which led to conceding a soft goal after 20 minutes. The North Down team created a couple of good chances with Andrea Mockford breaking through the middle, but was taken out on the edge of the circle by the last defender. The team only managed to gain a short corner, but it was well defended by the Garvey team.

The team then struggled to regain their composure in the first half with another goal being scored after 27 minutes from a good Garvey move down the right. North Down then went further behind with a third goal being scored in a similar fashion by Garvey just before half time.

The North Down team then went out in the second half and showed better composure on the ball and started to create some chances. The North Down midfield was working hard, but the defence allowed a number of easy short corners to be conceded, putting more pressure on the North Down goal. The North Down Goalkeeper Adrienne Da Costa was showing good form in front of the net with a number of good shots being saved to keep the score line at 3 -0.

However, the Garvey team managed to score a fourth goal to comfortably win the game at 4-0. Even though a number of players were missing on Saturday, the girls must learn from the game and show better composure on the ball and look to avoid conceding soft goals in such a short period of time.

The team travels to Victorians this Saturday with a 4pm start at Queens.

Farmview Player of the Match is Adrienne Da Costa.

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:: MENS THIRDS LOSE UNBEATEN RECORD

By Paul Revill
15/11/2010

The thirds travelled last Saturday to Hillsborough for their top of the table clash against Lisnagarvey 5ths. With both teams in joint second place a solid performance was needed for North Down to capitalise on their unbeaten form.

The game started with Garvey passing the ball well and gaining early control although the thirds did their best with good tackling in particular from Ryan Galway in midfield making it difficult for Garvey to make the incisive pass. Gradually North Down grew into the game and came close with a number of scoring chances however it was Garvey who went ahead first when, after ten minutes, a poor strike evaded everyone and managed to find the corner of the net. The thirds still pressed looking for an important equaliser but the home defence was looking strong and kept their goal intact. As the half progressed it was clear that North Down were struggling to mark their men, giving too much room for the home side to play their passing game. With five minutes to the break Garvey added a second goal the 2 – 0 scoreline properly reflecting play in the first 35 minutes.

A positive start to the second half from North Down gave them a much needed lift and their early pressure resulted in the award of a short corner but Mark Shannon's drag flick was well saved by the Garvey keeper.

North Down were a more improved team in the second half passing the ball better and marking tighter but Garvey still looked dangerous as their counter attacks were fast and a number of scoring efforts came close. A skillful run from Sam Pyper breezing by several home defenders ended with his pass to Galway being intercepted at the top of the circle. The thirds were playing with confidence at this stage but this was considerably dented when Garvey scored their third and decisive goal on 55 minutes. Despite this setback their heads stayed up and they continued to play attacking hockey eventually winning a short corner. From a variation, a switch to Paul Revill saw his chance cleared off the line. There were further chances at both ends but Garvey finished the game with a fourth goal with five minutes left on the clock. This was a good performance from both teams but Garvey deserved to come away with all three points as they took their chances when it counted.

Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Ryan Galway

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:: Minis Hockey 14/11/10

By P Whyte
14/11/2010

Just a reminder to all parents that the mini hockey is cancelled today due to various tournaments taking place. See you next week

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:: TABLE QUIZ REMINDER

By Jim Patterson
13/11/2010

DON'T FORGET. Table Quiz 27 November 7.30 pm Cricket Club!

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:: MEN'S FIFTHS IN SCORELESS STALEMATE

By Bond, .................. Peter Bond
11/11/2010

Last Saturday saw a reversal in the fixture book as South Antrim 5ths, who had double booked their pitch, travelled to Ards Leisure Centre to face the men’s 5ths.

With several faces missing from the squad the 5ths were forced to field a scratch team against what looked to be a young and energetic South Antrim side.

The first half proved testing. With South Antrim dominating possession and putting together some slick passing moves through the midfield. North Down suffered a blow after 10 minutes when Paul Johnston who had been so influential against Ballymena limped off with an injury.

North down reached the break scoreless due to some smart saves from Adam Drakeley and some fine cover play by Jamie Pooler now filling in a sweeper.

The second half brought a change of fortune, as North down seemed to come alive. With excellent pass and move hockey, new width provided by Jamie Hunter and Daniel Kerr and the tireless running of Peter Devlin and the returning Johnny Davidson up front, allowed playmaker Ben Willis time on the ball to dictate play and leave Drakeley in the North Down goal a spectator.

The final ball proved to be a continual problem to the otherwise delightful and flowing moves that North Down were putting together, playing passing hockey from back to front. Willis and Hunter combined well before finding Davidson down in the corner. Davidson rolled back the years and ghosted past two players before cutting back and making an excellent cross only for South Antrim to snuff out the danger.

Wave after wave of attack came however North Down failed to capitalise on the pressure and were restricted to a few long-range shots from George Rutherford who on another day would have had a hat trick.

When the final whistle blew South Antrim had held on for a well-deserved point in, as the cliché goes, a game of two halves.

The positive thing to take from the game was the first clean sheet of the season due largely to an outstanding Man of the Match performance from Jamie Pooler.

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:: MEN'S THIRDS GO TO SECOND IN LEAGUE

By Paul Revill
09/11/2010

North Down thirds hosted mid table Mossley fourths at Comber Leisure Centre last Saturday hoping for an improvement on their second half form from the previous week against Kilkeel thirds.

North Down were on the attack right from the whistle with the forward line of Sam Pyper, Andrew Shannon and late call up Gareth Bailie all pushing forward hunting for an early goal. Mossley's experienced defence were struggling with the skill and pace of Bailie on the wing cutting in at the byline and the chances were flowing for the home side. Simon Murray tested the Mossley keeper early on but although the thirds had all of the pressure they were unable to grab an early goal. As the first half was well underway it was clear that the away side were unable to distribute the ball cleanly from the back giving themselves few options, forcing errors and giving the ball straight back to the home team. North Down continued to dominate with Paul Revill in particular controlling midfield and urging his team forward for the opening goal which inevitably came after 20 minutes play. It was the evergreen Sam Pyper who crashed in the opener when the ball broke to him in the circle. The full turnout of North Down ‘directors’ sat back in their seats awaiting the expected avalanche of goals however chance after chance went a begging in front of goal and Mossley somehow kept the score to 1 – 0 by half time.

The thirds interval instructions were simple, ‘Let’s be more clinical in the circle!’ With this fresh in the home team’s mind a second goal was scored almost immediately after the restart by Gareth Bailie whose low reverse strike from a narrow angle beat the Mossley keeper at the near post. This second goal effectively killed off the contest as the Mossley team never looked like causing serious problems for the home defence where Darren Rodgers in goals was a veritable spectator. The thirds then forced a serious of short corners with several attempts peppering the target until a switch to Revill saw his touch find the backboard for a third goal. The visitors’ few efforts to reduce the deficit were halted by a solid home defence completely shutting the door on any danger. Towards the end both Shannon brothers, whose wing play had caused trouble for the visitors all afternoon, combined together at a penalty corner with Andrew stopping and Mark’s drag flick beat the keeper but was saved off the line by another defender. The fourth and final goal was scored right on full time by Bailie with another reverse stick shot for his second of the game.

This was a well earned victory for North Down thirds and the four goal scoreline hardly reflected on their superiority on the day. They have now moved into joint second place in Junior League Three with Lisnagarvey 5ths who provide the opposition next week in Hillsborough.

Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Paul Revill

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:: ANOTHER SUPERB SHOW FROM MEN'S FOURTHS

By Gavin Wilson
08/11/2010

North Down fourths travelled to Craigavon Leisure Centre last Saturday with only 11 players to face Portadown 2nds who had the luxury of a full squad of 16 at their disposal. North Down hit their stride immediately with the 11 they brought showing a physical Portadown side exactly why they are league leaders. North Down’s passing and movement simply overwhelmed the hosts and within 10 minutes the away side had a 3-0 lead with the goals coming from Peter Shields (2) and Steven Campbell. The Ports were simply stunned by the visitor’s opening display and two further goals before halftime from Martin Moreland and Shields delivered the knockout blow.
After the restart, North Down continued where they left off and it was Shields who continued the scoring, drilling a powerful shot into the bottom corner to take his personal tally to 4. For the rest of the second half, Shields was at the heart of North Down’s attacking play, creating a host of opportunities for himself and others. During this period, Campbell helped himself to another two goals to complete his hat-trick and Daniel Lavery fired through the keeper’s legs to make it 9-0 and complete the scoring. In truth, the score could have been much greater had it not been for some excellent goalkeeping and Philip Wilson, in particular, can consider himself very unlucky not have got on the scoresheet.
Despite being completely outplayed, Portadown continued to search for a consolation goal but North Down, however, remained disciplined in defence and midfield and they reached the final whistle with another clean sheet to add to their impressive attacking display.
Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Peter Shields

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:: LADIES FIFTHS EXIT MINOR CUP

By Lyndsey Lappin
08/11/2010

North down 5ths travelled to play Owls 2nds in the ONE 1918 Minor Cup at Roughfort Playing Fields last Saturday. North Down won the toss, took first pass back and both teams were on the attack from the start with some real end-to-end action. There were several opportunities to score, but unfortunately North Down could not get the ball past the Owls’ goalkeeper. Owls had some great runs down the centre eventually breaking through the North Down defence to score. Just before half time one of the Owls’ players went down in the circle with a suspected dislocated knee. Most players stopped to check the condition of the injured player but one Owls player saw this as an opportunity to score their second goal of the match. Play was stopped and both teams then waited in cold and wet for an hour for an ambulance to arrive and for the player to be removed from the pitch.
North Down started the second half with as much determination as they could and saw many breaks through the Owls defence but were just unable to finish with any goals. Owls went on to score 5 more goals bringing the score to 7-0 at full time.
Farmview Dairies Player of the Match was Sheona Whiteside who made some lovely saves throughout the game.

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:: LADIES SECONDS LOSE OUT IN LOCAL DERBY

By Karen Barker
08/11/2010

The Ladies 2nds travelled the short distance to Ards Leisure Centre to take on Ards 2nds in the Junior 2 league. The Ards team started strongly in the first half with a number of potential chances kept at bay with the North Down team defending well. North down began to compose themselves with some great play on the right hand side. When a hit out came to Helen McGaughey she made no mistake as to her intentions, a lovely run ended with the ball going to Jenna Hoey in the circle who set Ashleigh McLaughlin up for the first goal of the game. However, just moments later, Ards were awarded a short corner, a strong shot was initially stopped on the line by Lauren Brown but unluckily the ball bobbled and Ards took advantage to draw level at 1 - 1. The North Down defense were put under some pressure for a time and during this period Ards made a terrific run up their right followed by a powerful cross into the circle which was converted to put the home team ahead. The Comber team have a great never say die spirit and this was shown when on the stroke of half time some impressive play ended with Ashleigh McLaughlin dispossessing the Ards keeper. The umpire played advantage and this allowed the ball to come out to Nikki Reid who launched the ball into the back of the net however the goal was disallowed as being 'dangerous’.

The second half saw more of the same with both teams having chances. On two occasions keeper Nikki Ferris stamped her authority in the defensive circle with awesome saves but Ards increased their lead to 3 - 1 with a goal coming from a deflection at the back post and soon after they added another to go three goals clear. Again North Down showed their fighting spirit when good solid play lead to a penalty corner but Janice Scott, returning from a hand injury, shot just wide of the left post. The last 10 minutes provided yet further chances none of which were converted into goals. Finally, North Down scored their second when a cross field pass found Helen McGaughey on the right who, after leaving two defenders in her wake, cracked the ball to score an excellent goal. But it was too little too late and the final score ened 4 – 2 in ards seconds favour.
Farmview Dairies Player of the Match: Rachel Mornin

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:: NEW ONLINE LOCAL HOCKEY MAGAZINE

By Jim Patterson
05/11/2010

A new online magazine for local hockey called InTouchHockey has just been launched. It includes photos, match reports and some video from local hockey. Check it out on the links section of our site or directly at www.intouchhockey.com

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:: NOVEMBER NEWSLETTER

By Jim Patterson
03/11/2010

The November issue of the Club newsletter has been emailed today to everyone on the email database. If you have not received your copy, you are not on the database. Email your details to Jim Patterson.

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:: Ladies 1st XI Draw against Portadown

By KHaslett
02/11/2010

The Ladies 1st XI hosted Portadown at home on Saturday with a close encounter ending in a draw. The team is improving every week with another solid performance and the girls were disappointed to only take a point.
The Portadown team started strong in the first half with a number of short corners being awarded and the North Down team defending well to keep it 0-0. The girls then started to play good hockey and showed some tidy passages of play in midfield. However, Portadown broke the deadlock with a short corner 20 minutes into the game.
Another opportunity then fell to Portadown, but Adrienne Da Costa in nets pulled off a great save to keep the girls in the game. The North Down team then showed good character to compose themselves and play their way back into the game leading into half time.
The second half was a different story for the girls with North Down playing better hockey and creating plenty of chances. A couple of good runs from Hannah McKee and Laura Clarke down the right side and imposing pressure on the Portadown players.
The North Down team also showed good organisation in retrieving the ball from the Portadown defence and keeping them under pressure. The midfield showed a great work ethic with Naomi Dawson showing good enthusiasm to win the ball back down the left. North Down then managed to equalise with a well worked move and Zara Miller finishing it off for her second goal in 2 weeks. The girls then achieved a couple of corners and were unlucky not to get a winning goal at the end of the game with a deflection over the cross bar.
The girls now look forward to an away game at Lisnagarvey on Saturday 13th November with an opportunity to take more points over the league leaders.
Farmview.
Player of the Match was Naomi Dawson for a solid performance in midfield.

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:: IMPRESSIVE WIN FOR MENS FOURTHS

By G Wilson
01/11/2010

The fourths hosted Cookstown fifths at Ards Leisure Centre last Saturday and it was the Comber side which started the better on the new playing surface, winning a succession of penalty corners. Despite some good shots on goal from Peter Shields and Gavin Rogers, the Cookstown keeper and his goal line defence made a series of excellent saves. But North Down eventually made their pressure from the set-pieces count, with M Moreland scrambling home a rebound from close range to break the deadlock.
After the first goal, the young Cookstown side began to settle into the game, winning two penalty corners of their own. The North Down defence held firm on both occasions and the big turning point in the game came when the clearance from the second corner reached Shields who found himself through on goal with only the keeper to beat. The Club’s record goal scorer showed all his experience by rounding the keeper and firing home from a tight angle to double North Down’s advantage.
North Down continued to apply the pressure and it was Shields who was once again the danger man, this time creating the space for himself to unleash a powerful shot which thundered off the cross bar. The home side had definitely found their rhythm by this stage and they didn’t have to wait long for their third goal which came when young Daniel Lavery burst into the circle and battled his way through a number of challenges to find the back board.
The fourths took their three-goal advantage into the second half knowing that the next goal would be crucial and again started the better with Lavery making another great run, this time from right back, to win a short corner, which resulted in a Shields’ goal.
The game became more open from this point with the Tyrone side pushing players forward to try and get back in the game. North Down defended well during this period determined to keep their clean sheet and to keep all their Fantasy League managers happy. Mid-way through the second half, North Down took full advantage of the extra space with Martin Moreland and Shields combining down the right for a series of one-twos, which sliced the away defence apart, before Shields applied a neat finish to complete his hattrick. This passing move was so good that some of the Cookstown players even applauded and it must be an early favourite for goal of the season!
Despite the 5-0 scoreline, both teams continued to play attacking hockey, much to the delight of the growing number of spectators waiting for the next game. North Down again dominated the play with defender Rogers making a nuisance of himself upfront. North Down managed to create plenty more chances in the latter stages of the game, with Moreland and then Bond both scoring from close range to take the score to 7-0.
To their credit, Cookstown kept their heads up and continued to play after the restart and right at the death produced a powerful effort on goal which forced an assured Brown into a smart save. The final whistle immediately followed and North Down began to celebrate a fantastic all-round team performance to add to an already impressive start to the season.
Man of the Match was Daniel Lavery, who was in the thick or the action from both Left Midfield and Right Back and capped his performance with a goal. A special mention must also go to the Cookstown keeper, who made a number of excellent saves.

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:: LADIES FOURTHS CRUISE TO SECOND ROUND OF JUNIOR CUP

By R Murray
01/11/2010

North Down 4th played Ards 3rds last Saturday at Comber Leisure Centre in the first round of the Junior Cup and went into the match feeling confident having already overcome the same Ards side by 3 – 2 in an earlier league game.

The fourths settled very quickly into the game and took an early lead with a goal by Irene McCaughan. North Down played the ball well and kept working hard and this quickly paid off when McCaughan added her second goal. The fourths were strong in their set pieces and it wasn’t long before McCaughan made it a hat-trick from a penalty corner. Tight marking in the home defense kept the visiting Ards forwards at bay and they were rarely given any chances at goal. On 29 minutes North Down were awarded another penalty corner which led to passes between Hilary West and Irene McCaughan who set up Kathy Taylor whose goal made the score 4 – 0 in favour of North Down. Just as the whistle was about to blow for the end of the first period McCaughan scored her 4th goal to put the home side five goals ahead at half time.

The half time team talk was simple, “More of the same please!”. North Down maintained their pressure spreading the ball wide and making the Ards team do all of the chasing. Aimee Orr found herself in a good position hitting the ball past the keeper to make it 6 – 0. However, Ards kept fighting back but the North Down defense held firm and it wasn’t long before Aimee Orr completed the scoring with her 2nd goal of the match by again putting herself in the perfect position to slot the ball past the Ards keeper.
This was an excellent all round performance from the fourth eleven and they have confidently moved into the second round of the Junior Cup. In an odd footnote to the game, both North Down fourth elevens ran out 7 – 0 winners at the weekend!
Farmview Dairies Player of the Match: Irene McCaughan

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:: Youth Girls Training

By P Whyte
01/11/2010

Just a reminder to the youth girls that training has now switched to a Monday night from 7-8 at Comber Leisure Centre.

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:: HARD WORK FOR MENS THIRDS AT KILKEEL

By P Revill
01/11/2010

The thirds were on the road last Saturday to face their Kilkeel counterparts and hoping to continue their unbeaten run to maintain their league challenge.

The first half started well for North Down with a few chances early to give the away side confidence at a venue where away points are difficult to come by. Sam Pyper’s strike from a short corner came close but was off target however, shortly after on 10 minutes, the first goal was scored when Pyper’s thunderous strike from a tight angle beat the Kilkeel goalie on his strong side to find the top corner. Stung by the early set back Kilkeel pushed forward looking for the equaliser, in particular their striker was proving difficult to mark by dropping deep to avoid the visitor’s defense. In an excellent passing move Kilkeel created the best chance of the game through midfield which lead to a shot which rattled the post and then rebounded into the path of another Kilkeel forward whose shot clattered the other post.

North needed to respond and cut out Kilkeel’s attacks and responded by going from 4-3-3 to 4-4-2. The extra player in midfield helped break the home side’s efforts though the middle of the park and this stabilized the pattern of play. After 30 minutes the thirds hit Kilkeel on the counter attack which finished with a two on one on the keeper. Pyper squared the ball to young Philip Wilson who finished well with a flick over the diving keeper to put North Down two up. The ever resilient home team came back strongly but found Simon Murray in midfield for North Down in excellent form with strong tackling, good work rate up and down the park and closing out attacking play from Kilkeel.

The second half started well for the thirds as they continued to control and create chances. They were unlucky not to be awarded a penalty stroke as Ryan Galway’s shot appeared to be stopped by a Kilkeel defenders foot however nothing given as the umpire was unsighted! As the half progressed, North Down lost focus and began to let Kilkeel back into the game. With their added pressure and policy of throwing everything forward Kilkeel made the visitors look vulnerable as they failed to clear their lines giving the ball away cheaply from the back.

Eventually the long threatened goal came when a poor clearance out of the circle fell to a home forward and the Mourne man made the most of it and scored. With the score line at 2-1 the home side looked certain to get on terms as North Down continued to be careless at the back and Kilkeel threw everything forward to get the equaliser. With time running out and the thirds on the back foot, they actually had a great chance to make the game safe when Simon Murray skillfully wove his way through the defense only for his shot to be saved. Kilkeel’s final effort to grab a late point came through a short corner with minutes remaining but Darren Rodgers was good enough to keep it out.

This was a close run thing for the thirds and although their unbeaten run continues there won’t be many closer finishes this season.
Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Simon Murray

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:: MENS FIRSTS DISSAPOINT AT MOSSLEY

By R Mitchell
31/10/2010

An inept second half performance saw North Down drop valuable points against Mossley at The Glade last Saturday. The first half was evenly contested with few scoring opportunities for either side but the second period was dominated by Mossley and they ran out deserved winners by 2-0.
Mossley were early on the attack and Coates palmed away a reverse shot from Jackson who has just returned to the game following serious facial and head injuries. Mossley won the only corner of the half but it was easily cleared and then Coates had to be quick off his line to block Todd. At the other end a cross from Caruth was deflected but no one was on hand to get a touch with the goal gaping. Jackson was finding space in midfield and he found Todd but his shot was wide however the best chance of the half fell to North Down. Keith Conway played a superb overhead which found Caruth leaving the visitors with a two on one chance but Caruth failed to see Andy Spratt and the defender cleared. Just before halftime another cross from Caruth flashed across the goal without anyone getting the final touch.
Mossley ran the second half with North Down rarely getting out of their half and when they did the ball was given away allowing Mossley to lay siege on the North Down goal for long periods. Coulter saw a reverse shot fly over the bar and then they won 5 corners which the North Down defence did well to clear. Finally after 55 minutes Mossley deservedly took the lead although there was an element of luck to the goal. Todd worked the ball along the byline and his cross was knocked into his own goal by the unlucky North Down skipper Richard Willis. Mossley were then temporarily reduced to ten men but North Down were unable to take advantage of the extra man. Todd brought a fine save from Coates when he got a stick to a piledriver and deflected the ball wide. North Down in a rare excursion into the Mossley circle had a great chance to equalise when Simon Watt robbed the defender on the byline and then rounded the keeper but his cross evaded Spratt who had the open goal at his mercy. Mossley made sure of the points when they scored their second with 5 minutes left. Chris Speers was caught in possession and a quick passing movement saw Robinson smash the ball home from the right side of the circle.
Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Andy Coates

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:: FANTASY HOCKEY LEAGUE

By Jim Patterson
28/10/2010

Players who have received their entry code for the Fantasy League must register their team before Saturday to score points this weekend.

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:: FANTASY HOCKEY LEAGUE

By Jim Patterson
27/10/2010

Would all members check your emails. The Fantasy Hockey League starts with games this Saturday. If you haven't received an email from me then I either do not have your email address or it is inaccurate. In either case, contact me at jim.patterson@talktalk.net .

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:: THREE GOAL WIN FOR LADIES FOURTHS

By Rachel Murray
26/10/2010

North Down 4ths took on Garvey 5ths last Sat in the league. The fourths started off well passing the ball but were denied a goal in the opening minutes of the match. They kept their heads up and all their hard work soon paid off with a goal by Hilary West. Garvey tried fighting back but with excellent defending and goal keeping they kept their lead. North Down kept passing the ball cleverly between midfield and forwards which again paid off by a second goal by Hilary West.
In the second half Garvey had a number of chances to equalise but goalkeeper Ashley Gorman and defender Kathryn Rogers both denied their goals. North Down were given their first penalty corner of the match taking the lead to 3 by Irene McCaughan. Jo Irwin was voted Player if the Match because of her excellent passing and playing of the ball.

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:: Ladies 1st XI Draw against Priorians in Derry

By KHaslett
26/10/2010

The Ladies 1st XI traveled to Derry on Saturday to play Priorians in a bottom of the table clash. Both teams were keen to come away with the 3 points, but it proved to be a close game with a 3 -3 draw.
North Down got off to a great start to the game with plenty of possession and good exchanges of open passing. Priorians were under pressure from the first whistle with North Down attacking the circle. The pressure paid off with North Down getting a short corner after 5 minutes and converting with a good strike from Kathryn Mullin. Andrea Mockford started the game well with good movement down the right wing and creating problems for the Priorian defense.

North Down achieved a series of penalty corners over the next 10 minutes but failed to convert good opportunities. Another good opportunity was presented to the North Down team after 19 minutes with Andrea Mockford from open play hitting the right post after a well worked move.

Priorians then started to play better hockey and managed to score an equaliser from a short corner being stopped by a foot on the line. A penalty stroke was awarded and the Priorians player managed to convert. The North Down team then failed to keep the composure and allowed Priorians to score a quick second goal to go behind 2 - 1 in the game. The first half ended very positive from the girls and managed to keep good possession in defense and pushed into Priorians territory. The midfield worked hard and showed great determination to win crucial ball. The constant pressure then paid off with the girls attacking the circle with an overlap of players and Zara Miller scoring with a well worked move.

The second half also started well for the North Down team with Amy Benson creating problems for the Priorian defense. The girls then conceded a couple of cheap short corners and Priorians managed to score a third goal from a couple of basic North Down errors. The final 10 minutes of the game showed good character from the North Down girls with Amy and Hannah McKee working hard down the right side. Hannah McKee made some solid runs down the right with Laura Clarke also showed good enthusiasm to win a crucial corner at the end of the game.

The umpire blew for the final whistle and North Down showed good composure to score a well worked goal with Naomi Dawson scoring the goal to finish the game with a 3 - 3 draw.

The North Down team certainly showed that they are capable of playing confident hockey, but need to keep working hard over the 70 minutes. The girls will now look forward to Portadown at home this week.

Farmview Player of the Match: Amy Benson/Andrea Mockford

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:: LADIES SECONDS GET A POINT AT PRIORIANS

By Karen Barker
26/10/2010

North Down Ladies 2nd XI made the long journey to St Columbs Park to face Priorians 2nd XI last Saturday. A couple of absentees to the usual 2nd XI team allowed for the debut of Rebecca Walker in defense and the return of Barbara Moles at right wing and both players proved their worth with some strong attacking from the right wing and Rebecca at left back looking under control with encouragement coming from the capable Fiona Ellis.
Yet again the combo of Nikki Reid and Ashleigh McLaughlin on the left seemed unstoppable at times. Priorians fielded a slightly more mature side compared to the North Down team and at times the rather physical nature of the Priorians play went unnoticed by the umpires.
Both teams had their chances to score but great defensive play from the talented Fiona Ellis, aided by the capable Keri Burnside at sweeper, allowed North Down to keep a clean sheet. Despite the visitors being the more predominant team they were unable to turn their possession into goals leaving the final score 0-0 but are hopeful of getting a result when Priorians visit Comber.

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:: HALLOWEEN FANCY DRESS

By Bond, ............... Peter Bond
26/10/2010

Check 'NEXT EVENTS' on the home page for details of this Saturday's party!

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:: HEAVY DEFEAT FOR LADIES FIFTHS

By Lyndsey Lappin
25/10/2010

The ladies' fifths played Mossley thirds in the ONE 1918 Junior League 9 at Ards Leisure Centre last Saturday. From the first pass back, North Down were on the attack and had a number of opportunities to score but just could not get the ball past the Mossley goalkeeper. There was some real end-to-end action, but Mossley got some lucky breaks through the North Down defence and, despite some excellent defending from sweeper Lynsey Catherwood, managed to sneak three goals past the North Down keeper bringing the score to 3-0 at half time.
North Down started the second half with lots of determination, and spent most of the match attacking, but while the North Down mid field and defence were high up the pitch Mossley took advantage from breakaways and scored 4 more goals. Some lovely runs up the wing and square passing from Nicky Osborne saw Jenny Ashfield eventually score North Down’s only goal of the game bringing the score to 7-1 at full time. Joint Farmview Players of the Match were Lyndsey Lappin and Gillian Neill.

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:: FIRST ELEVEN HOME DRAW WITH INSTONIANS

By R Mitchell
25/10/2010

It has been 14 months but North Down have finally taken a point from one of the top five teams in the ultra competitive Premier League which the coaching staff see as one of the key factors to survival at the highest level.
Instonians were the visitors to Comber Leisure Centre last Saturday and started off as if they would put the game out of North Down’s reach early on. Only three inspired saves from keeper Andy Coates, himself a former Inst player, kept the visitors at bay in the first quarter of the match during which Inst threatened to run riot. North Down held on but were unable to make inroads past a strong Instonians midfield only slowly getting into the game as the first half progressed. Just before half time when it looked as if the storm had been weathered Instonians finally breached the home defense with a fortuitous goal from new signing Brett Webb, an Australian engineering student. The 1 – 0 half time score probably justified the dominance of the more experienced visitors.
Five minutes into the second half Instonians doubled their lead following a mistake by Stuart McCormick. Graeme Carson picked up the ball on the right wing and made a strong run into the circle to crash an unstoppable shot past Coates in goal. Last season, this setback might have seen North Down go under but this year’s squad is made of sterner stuff and the goal inspired the home team to a fight back. This led to a series of short corners from the first of which Scott Caruth scored with a trademark superb drag flick. Inst were then lucky to clear another effort off the line before they were reduced to 10 men after a yellow card offence.
The North Down pressure continued and Instonians were now on the back foot. They were briefly reduced to 9 men as a defender was yellow carded for deliberate feet in the 25 yard area and from the resulting penalty corner Caruth equalised with another superb flick for his ninth goal of the season. Play was end to end in the final ten minutes with both teams having opportunities to secure the win but the game finished with both sets of supporters relieved to come away with a point each.
Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Andy Corry

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:: MEN'S THIRDS JUST SHADE IT OVER COOKSTOWN 4THS

By Paul Revill
25/10/2010

North Down thirds entertained Cookstown fourths last Saturday at Nendrum College Comber and after the previous week’s draw with Down were hoping to get back to winning ways. The thirds got off to a flyer in the first half with early chances coming from Stuart Nicholson and Sam Pyper but their efforts were saved by the Cookstown goalie. The visitors tried hard to get themselves into the game with attacking play from the right but Andrew Walls in particular proved too strong with excellent tackling and hard work to see off any efforts to get near the circle.
As the thirds began to control the game, short corners were coming thick and fast with Pyper peppering the target but the visiting keeper was having a great game between the posts. The first goal finally came after 15minutes by way of a short corner. Nicholson's strike was saved but Paul Revill was quick to pounce on the rebound and finish at the near post. With the home team in charge the second goal was scored from open play as Pyper's strike hit the back board at pace. This was the cue for Cookstown to start edging back into the game. A mix up in the third’s defense led to Cookstown’s opener as the striker finished well on the reverse beating Darren Rodgers in goals at the near post. As the first half was nearing an end North Down continued to attack from the back where Walls was proving to be a veritable fortress but also linking well with midfield and forwards. Just before half time North Down almost went further ahead when Walls’ skillful run from the back led to an accurate ball to Mark Shannon whose 30 yard pass put Revill through to a one on one on the keeper but the chance went abegging.

The second half started promisingly for the away side as they pushed for an equalizer. Their early efforts came close but Rodgers was in good form in nets. With Cookstown pressing forward the thirds third goal came from a quick counter attack as Andrew Shannon took his chance and converted well. To their credit, the visitors were not discouraged by this setback and continued to push forward, in particular their teenage striker Hughes was proving difficult to mark with good movement off the ball which led to his second goal once again on the reverse. The thirds were still a goal in front after an hour and with Cookstown still well in the game the thirds fourth goal came at a good time when a smartly worked short corner left Andrew Shannon at the back post with an open goal 3 yards out.

This was the signal for the home team to relax their efforts and Cookstown came back stronger than ever. They were soon rewarded with a short corner which led to Andrew Walls being carried off as he was struck on the foot by the shot. From the retaken corner Hughes brought the scoreline back to 4 – 3 but with 5 minutes remaining, Pyper sealed the win for the thirds with his second goal of the game.

Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Andrew Walls

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:: Mens Seconds Round Up

By PW
24/10/2010

Mens Seconds Round Up

The men’s seconds have been in action in Junior One over the lat two weeks and have stretched their unbeaten run to four games with two hard fought wins over Kilkeel and Banbridge.

First up was Kilkeel in a tense affair at Comber Leisure Centre. This was a game were North Down struggled to bring any fluency to their play and had to rely on a good work ethic to win the match against a good Kilkeel side. North Down opened the scoring in the first half when Stephen Mage finished calmly after a flowing move initiated by Ricky McMillan. North Down had more chances in the half but failed to convert leaving the match delicately balanced at 1-0 at half time.

North Down started the second half poorly with sloppy play bringing ball out from the back putting pressure on the North Down circle. Keeper Matt Jordan had to be on his toes on a couple of occasions to keep Kilkeel at bay. As the half wore on North Down came into the game catching Kilkeel on the break with quick counter attacks creating many scoring opportunities. However it took a conversion at the back post from Stephen Dalzell, created by a superb run along the bye line from Ricky McMillan, to secure the points.

A scrappy game with North Down happy to take the points. A Jekyll and Hyde performance from Ricky McMillan neither earned him the Farmview Dairies Man of the Match award but it went to keeper Matt Jordan who had an excellent game and made some crucial saves when Kilkeel were pressing.

Thanks to Jimmy Patterson and Raymond Moreland for umpiring.

This week North Down made the trip to Banbridge to play their thirds and once again came away with the points. North Down started well and after ten minutes a superb deflection into the circle from Colin Morrison into the circle was pounced on by Gareth Bailie who converted. Colin Mockford coming forward from sweeper was causing Banbridge problems and several balls from him into the circle saw good chances squandered. However after twenty minutes North Down went further ahead when Matthew Wilson found Gareth Bailie unmarked in the circle and he deflected the ball home delightfully. Banbridge were causing problems wit their crossing and after twenty five minutes they pulled one back. The score line remained 2-1 to half time.

North Down started the second half sluggishly and had to endure some early pressure. However they were dangerous on the break and one such break saw Mathew Wilson fire the ball home to open up a two goal lead again. After twenty minutes Banbridge got back into the game again when they converted a short corner. The last fifteen minutes were concentrated around the North Down circle with Matt Jordan having to produce some good saves. However the North Down line was not breached and another three points were secured.

Again not the best performance from North Down but winning when not playing at your best is always a good sign. The Farmview Dairies Man of the Match went to Matthew Wilson who has returned to form over the last couple of weeks after a sluggish stat to the season.

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:: Ladies 1st XI lose against Ballymena

By KHaslett
19/10/2010

The ladies 1st XI travelled to Ballymena last Saturday looking for the first win of the season, but will have to wait after another disappointing performance.

The North Down team did start strong in the first 5 minutes of the game with good early pressure and showed some intent on scoring the first goal. However, ten minutes into the game provided the first goal by Ballymena after the girls lost possession and struggled to pick up players coming through the midfield.

The North Down girls then made some fundamental errors to concede another 2 quick Ballymena goals from open play after 15 and 18 minutes of hockey. The team managed to get through to half time at 3 - 0 down with some good defensive short corners, but it left the girls with alot of work in the second half.

The North Down team started the second half alot brighter with some good early pressure on the Ballymena defence. Amy Benson had a good reverse shot saved by the Ballymena keeper 10 minutes into the 2nd half. The good work then finally paid off with a good goal from Eve Grimason after 12 minutes.

The girls were battling hard at 3-1 down, but the game was disrupted after a North Down player was hit with a stick in the face and had to be taken off. The team then had to deal with some difficult decisions after the incident and lost a player for 5 minutes after the coach got too involved with the umpiring decisions.

It was a difficult day for the official umpire and would have been avoided if the Ulster Branch provided both officials in the future, as an ex Ballymena player had to complete the umpiring line up for the game. However, North Down will ensure this situation on all aspects is not repeated in the future and will look to the Ulster Branch for some answers on why the 2nd official umpire did not turn up for the game.

A fourth goal was then conceded after a ball was hit into the circle and an interesting deflection was taken from the Ballymena player to score the fourth goal. The 5th goal was then scored from a short corner when the Ballymena player lobbed the keeper to make the final score 5-1.

It was a frustrating day for the North Down team, but the bottom line involved some fundamental errors in defence and there were plenty of chances created with no goals. However, the first win of the league campaign is just round the corner with an away trip to Priorians this weekend. For the first time in 6 weeks, the girls can go to Priorians with a full team and look for a strong performance.

Farmview Player of the Match: Eve Grimason for a good goal and solid performance.

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:: ARRIVAL OF BABY PYPER!

By J Patterson
12/10/2010

Congratulations to Gillian and Sam Pyper on the birth of their baby daughter Rosie Elizabeth at 6.48 am on 11 October. R E Pyper weighed in at 8 lbs 10 ozs. Both are doing well, Sam too, and are home already!!

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:: THIRDS MEN TURN CHANCES TO GOALS

By P Revill
12/10/2010

The thirds travelled to Deramore Park on Saturday to face Harlequins 3rd XI. After their good start to the season, their hard work up front needed to be capitalized on by more thought and picking the simple ball in or around the circle. Andrew McKibben was a late call up to the team following a late injury to Matthew Welsh in a school game.
The match started excellently for the away side as an early goal on 5 minutes by Andrew Shannon settled the visitors immediately. Harlequins tried to bounce back early on but Johnny Calvin and Willie Gibson made it hard work for them as they proved solid at the back making clean tackles and clearing their lines effortlessly. Simon Murray, playing in midfield, was facing his old club for the first time and he showed his presence with his excellent work rate, confident holding of the ball, passing and linking well with the forward line.
North Down's increasing pressure saw an opportunity for Stuart Nicholson to crash home a superb second goal, a reverse stick effort from the edge of the circle which gave the keeper no chance. At this stage the thirds were well in control as the forward line forced errors on the home defence who gave away three short corners in quick succession. On the third a quick switch from Sam Pyper to Paul Revill saw his flick find the roof of the goal and with three goals in 20 minutes the away team were well in charge. Just before the interval, Pyper added a fourth, just reward for his effort put in during the first half.

To make matters worse for the home team, Harlequins then started the second half with ten men as two of their number departed for first eleven duty. However, as often happens, North Down made hard work of it as the concept of teamwork was forgotten and individuals started to perform their party pieces. Eventually the penny dropped and the thirds began playing as a unit again. The fifth goal came on 45 mins, again from Pyper, linking up well with Mark Shannon to create the chance. With the scoring of the fifth goal, it was now only a matter of how many as the Harlequins defence were unable to cope with the North Down attack. The sixth was added by Nicholson, his strike slotted home with precision, and with more goals to follow, North Down just kept attacking. In fact, Rodgers in goals for the visitors at the other end was left as a mere spectator not having touched the ball since the 25th minute! The remaining three goals were scored by Mark Shannon, whose hard work eventually paid off, the eighth by Ryan Galway and to finish off an excellent team performance Pyper completed his hat-trick with a tap in from two yards.

Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Sam Pyper

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:: MEN'S FIFTHS FINALLY WIN!

By Bond ................... Peter Bond!
12/10/2010

Saturday saw the first Home fixture for the 5XI who took on Mossley at Nendrum College. Changes to the North Down line up saw Big Roger Graham make his return to the outfield to partner Gavin Wilson in central defence as the 5XI changed formation to a 4-4-2.

Just like the pervious two games North Down started brightly and sharp passing and possestion hockey dominated the midfield and restricted Mossely in every department. With wave after wave of north Down attack something finally had to break, Ben Willis picked up the ball in central midfield and played an pin point Ariel over the back line in to the left hand channel to and on to the stick of Hutch. Hutch gilded M into the circle before hitting a powerful shot across the keeper finding the net!

After the restart Mossley came back, and threatened to equalise once from a short corner and again when a cross fired in from the right eluded the mossley left winger by inches.

The new look North down defence held strong and it was only a matter of time before North Down were on the attack again. Again a good move down the left by Hutch and Willis resulted in the ball being cut back to Rutherford on the edge of the circle, his low drive beating the keeper and striking the back board. 2-0. North Down were now in control and should have had more as Donaldson and Bond Played a one two on the edge of the circle however Ryan's good shot was matched by an equally good save. At Half Time North Down were the happier side.

In the Second Half Mossley threw everything they had at North Down as North Down soaked up the pressure and resorted to a counter attacking style. Despite Mossley's best efforts North Down's defence looked resolute. The game became increasingly stretched. With Mossley committing more and more men forward, the North Down attacks became more dangerous time and time again North Down found themselves in two on one situations. Firstly Peter Devlin, who shot was blocked by the keeper, before Rutherford was released by a Willis through ball however failed to pick out Bond who was unmarked in the circle. The best chance of the second half fell to Bond who "raced" on to another Willis through ball and rounded the keeper only to be brought down. Eyes immediately went to Donaldson snr who after consideration gave a short corner.

Mossley eventually got a goal back with a few minutes to go. However a performance filled with character carried North Down over the line to record a excellent 2-1 victory and finally get their season under way!

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:: IRISH SENIOR CUP DRAW

By J Patterson
11/10/2010

The men's 1st XI have been drawn to play Dublin YMCA away in the first round of the Irish Senior Cup to be played on 13 November.

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:: Mens seconds win two in a row

By PW
11/10/2010

North Down 2’s v Raphoe 2’s

Junior One

On Saturday the seconds entertained Raphoe in sunny Comber and played their best hockey this year to come away with a 6-0 victory.

North Down started the game with a high tempo and immediately pressed Raphoe back. North Downs transferring of the ball from side to side was causing the Raphoe defence problems but few clear cut opportunities were created. Half way through the half North Down took the lead when Garth Bailie reacted quickly to flick the ball through the Raphoe keeper’s legs. The second goal arrives soon after with debutant Connor Millar striking from the top of the circle. Despite several other chances the score remained 2-0 at half time.

Raphoe applied early pressure in the second half but the defence, marshalled well by Colin Mockford ensured there were no easy chances created. North Down where guilty of holding on to the ball for too long but as the half progressed they returned to their first half performance level. Fifteen minutes in Stephen Forrest was put through by Ricky McMillan and he waltzed round several defenders before calmly finishing. Scotty Moore got in on the act shortly after when he scored with a diving reverse stick finish. North Down were now rampant against a tiring Raphoe defence and despite squandering several chances managed to score two more goals with Stephen Forrest converting at the back post and Andrew Spratt converting a short corner drag flick to leave the final score 6-0.

An excellent team performance from a North Down side getting comfortable at Junior one. Debutant Connor Millar was impressive with his composure and passing ability but the Farmview Dairies Man of the Match went to another school boy, Stephen Forrest, who was a constant problem to the Raphoe defence.

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:: FIRST XI'S LOCAL DERBY ENDS ALL SQUARE

By R Mitchell
11/10/2010

North Down and NICS drew 2-2 in front of a large crowd at Comber Leisure Centre last Saturday. Both sides had opportunities to win the game but in the end both coaches were happy with a share of the spoils.
North Down opened at a quick pace and Tom Donnan was the first to show when he brought a save from Sam Brown the Service keeper. It was Donnan again after 10 minutes who opened the scoring. He accepted a fine pass from Simon Watt and swept the ball into the net with a reverse shot. Watt’s close control was causing problems for the Service defence but no goal scoring opportunities were created. Chris Barnes then threatened the home circle but Willis and Coates cleared the danger and at the other end Andy Spratt received the ball at the top of the circle but he was unable to get a shot on target. Conway then found himself clear just outside the circle but instead of attacking the circle he attempted to lay the ball off and the opportunity went a begging.
The second half saw much more action in both circles but poor finishing by each team restricted the number of goals scored. It was Donnan who almost increased North Down lead when his reverse stick shot from a narrow angle was partially saved and the ball agonizingly ran along the goal line before being cleared. At the other end Gill won a corner but Barnes’ effort was saved however Barnes then scored the equaliser when he slotted home from a short corner after 40 minutes. Strong running from Caruth was creating gaps in the Service defence but often his final ball was not accurate enough.
After 55 minutes Watt and Caruth combined to win a corner and Caruth hammered his effort into the net to give North Down the lead back again. Corry broke from defence and played a good one/two with Watt but Corry’s effort went wide. Good play again from Watt and Caruth resulted in Watt’s strike on goal come back off the post to the relief of the visitors. At the other end Barnes flashed a reverse over the bar and Coates then cleared a short corner effort from the same player. North Down broke quickly and Watt was unlucky not to score but with four minutes remaining Gill got the equaliser when he was rewarded for his persistence and hammered the ball through a ruck of players and past the helpless Coates.
In the final 3 minutes both sides had chances to win the game. Firstly, Caruth played the ball to Spratt but he slipped and was unable to get his shot away and then with the final hit of the game Coates saved from Barnes when he was put clean through on goal.
This was a good game of hockey with a fair result for both teams. Coaches Johnston and Davis were delighted with the improved performance but disappointed with the wasted opportunities. They will be looking for more clinical finishing as fewer opportunities will be created this Saturday at the away league fixture against a strong Banbridge defence.

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:: LADIES SECONDS SURRENDER 2 GOAL ADVANTAGE

By R Mornin & J Alexander
11/10/2010

North Down 2nds faced Ballymena 2nds at Nendrum College last Saturday. From the whistle it seemed as if the game was going to be evenly matched with both sides having attacking opportunities. North Down grasped one of these chances when a storming ball from Helen McGaughey was deflected past the Ballymena keeper by Ashleigh McLaughlin. As the first half progressed North Down had the majority of possession and it wasn't long before Nikki Reid scored an outstanding goal into the top left corner from a surging ball put through by Rachel Mornin. At half time the score was 2-0 to North Down seconds.

After the home team proved their worth in the first half, they took the foot of the gas somewhat in the second allowing Ballymena 2nds to build their game and create plenty of chances in the circle. The visitors got themselves right back into it with two goals in quick succession. Their first goal coming from a penalty corner after several which the North Down defense would not let them convert and the second was a deflection at the left post. North Down finally got back into their game and with more chances coming from both teams the second half was an exciting one.

Almost on the stroke of full time the North Down pressure resulted in a penalty corner but when the ball came to Keri Burnside she was unlucky not to have clinched the winner as the ball flew past the right hand post.

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:: ARMAGH 4THS TOO STRONG FOR LADIES 4THS

By R Murray
11/10/2010

North Down 4ths entertained Armagh 4ths at Ards Leisure centre last Saturday in a Junior League 6 game. With many changes in players and positions the home team had their work cut out against a strong visiting team. Whilst North Down were still coming to terms with their new set up Armagh made the most of the confusion to score two goals without reply in the first half. North Down improved in the second period fighting strongly for the ball and hitting the post but with shots saved and other opportunities missed couldn't bring the score back. Nicky Hunter came back from retirement to receive player of the match!!

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:: FIFTHS LADIES GET A POINT AT BALLYNAHINCH

By L Lappin
11/10/2010

North Down 5th XI travelled to play Ballynahinch 2nd XI in the ONE 1918 Junior League 9 at Langley Road Playing Fields last Saturday.
From the first whistle the fifths started in fantastic form despite not having long to gel together as a team and displayed some lovely passing. They dominated throughout the first half and won several penalty corners. However, the closest they came to getting on the score sheet was when Lyndsey Lappin was unable to convert a slipped pass from Claire Shields and frustratingly hit the post. There were further opportunities to score but the Ballynahinch goalkeeper proved difficult to beat with the score remaining 0-0 at half time.
Ballynahinch seconds came back at North Down stronger in the second half and there was some real end-to-end action. There was excellent defending from Lynsey Catherwood who played some lovely balls through to player of the match Shannon White who made some good runs towards goal, but the Ballynahinch defence held out and at full time the score remained unchanged at 0 – 0.

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:: Ladies 1sts lose to Omagh

By KHaslett
11/10/2010

The North Down Ladies 1st XI lost the game in the last twenty minutes to Omagh despite playing the best hockey for most of the game.
The girls started very slowly when Omagh attacked from the first blow of the whistle. The North Down team weathered four short corners from the Omagh attack before finding their feet in the game.

The girls started to play solid hockey five minutes into the game with Andrea Mockford making good runs down the wing to create a number of chances in the circle. The team then won a short corner ten minutes into the game with Kathryn Mullin scoring a solid goal with a great strike past the Omagh defence. The girls kept the pressure up with Bex Mitchell making a good break into the Omagh half and creating another opportunity.

The girls then gave Omagh a cheap short corner with the away team taking advantage to make the score 1 - 1 after 25 minutes. The North Down team showed great character in maintaining the ball again and made a break into the Omagh circle with Jenna Hoey having a shot at goal and Amy Benson scoring the rebound to make it 2 - 1.

The second half started very promising for North Down with good solid hockey in the first ten minutes. However, the North Down girls started to lose focus on the game and Omagh managed to score an equaliser 20 minutes into the second half. Further poor marking from the home team squandered another Omagh goal with ten minutes to go in the game. At 3 -2 to the away team, the North Down team struggled to get back into the game and let an Omagh goal in with a few minutes to go.

Whilst the final scoreline of 4 - 2 to Omagh does not reflect the possession held by North Down, it is important for the girls to learn from their mistakes and bounce back with a good performance next Saturday at Ballymena away.

Farmview Player of the Match is Andrea Mockford.

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:: LADIES THIRDS LOSE AT LARNE

By R Nield
11/10/2010

North Down Ladies 3rds travelled to play Larne 2nds last Saturday with a few changes to the squad. Despite several positional changes North Down began strongly putting pressure on the Larne side from the pushback. On their debut for the thirds Holly Monson and Barbara Moles linked up well on the right hand side putting the Larne defence under extreme pressure and setting up a number of potential goal scoring opportunities. However, the thirds failed to convert these chances and it wasn’t long before Larne fought back and began to unsettle the North Down side, scoring mid way through the first half with a strong shot from the right of the circle.
The home team then built further on their lead with another first half goal. Although the North Down team continued to improve throughout the second half they were unable to make any impression on a strong Larne defence and the final score was 2 – 0 to the Co Antrim team.
Anne McBride received player of the match with an excellent performance at centre back.

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:: BABY GIRL FOR EMMA AND STUART JOHNSTON

By R Mitchell
10/10/2010

Congratulations to Emma and Stuart on the birth of their baby daughter Katie Caroline at the end of last week. Baby weighed in at 6 lbs 14 ozs!

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:: North Down on TWITTER

By Laura Clarke
09/10/2010

North Down Hockey Club has joined the Twitter revolution making it even easier to keep up to date with all the latest club news from your computer. Blacberry, IPhone etc. Please follow us @northdownhc

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:: IMPORTANT - SUBS ARE NOW DUE

By W Reid
09/10/2010

No! This ugly word won't go away. Your subs are due now! Please pay either directly to myself or Nikki Ferris or to your team captain. All subs must be paid by 31 October. There are many advantages to this. You will be available for selection for the first Saturday in November and you will also get a discounted rate. See the list below:

Senior playing member Ł180.00 discounted to Ł170.00
Under 21 memberŁ150.00 discounted to Ł140.00
Resident student member Ł125.00 discounted to Ł115.00
Non resident student member Ł60.00 discounted to Ł50.00
unior member (Under 18 on 1 Oct) Ł105.00 discounted to Ł95.00
Minor member (Under 15 on 1 Oct) Ł80.00 discounted to Ł70.00
Youth member (Under 11 on 1 Jan) Ł60.00 discounted to Ł50.00
Ladies veteran member Ł75.00 discounted to Ł65.00
Family membership Ł325.00 discounted to Ł315.00
Non playing member Ł25.00 discounted to Ł25.00

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:: NORTH DOWN FANTASY HOCKEY LEAGUE

By J Patterson
09/10/2010

Emails have been sent out to all Club members with details of this season's Fantasy hockey league. If you have not received this email it's because you aren't on the database or have changed your email address. If so please email me so I can update the list.

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:: VETERANS' CHALLENGE MATCH ON SUNDAY

By R Mitchell
07/10/2010

To celebrate the re-opening of the new pitch at Comber Leisure Centre the ladies' vets will take on a team of men's super vets at 4.00 pm this Sunday. This game has been generously sponsored by Trevor Allsop who will be turning out himself.

St John's Ambulance will be on standby as quite a few of the men's team have not, as they say, run the length of themselves in a number of years.

For some this will surely be the last round up for hockey careers that for a few started in the 60s, that would be the 1960s!

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:: FIFTHS SUFFER SECOND SUCCESSIVE DEFEAT

By Bond, .............. Peter Bond!
05/10/2010

Last Friday night saw the 5th XI travel to Shawsbridge to take on Instonians 5ths. From the opening whistle the 5ths looked sharp putting some clean passing moves together. Paul Revill, a late call up to the team, showed his worth and dominated the central midfield, Daniel Kerr and Andrew McKibben provided excellent width as North Down setup camp in the Instonians half. However despite their domination North Down struggled to find a final killer ball on the water based surface.

On one of many forays into the Instonians circle North Down were awarded a short corner which lead to the first real chance of the match, however Peter Bond's shot was saved by the sprawling keeper.

North Down’s eventually pressure told, as Joe Hutchinson got the ball on the outside left and fired a great ball across the goal which was met by the onrushing Jamie Hunter who guided the ball in to the roof of the goal.

At 0-1 North Down looked comfortable and in control as Drakeley had so far been a mere spectator. However the tide soon turned and North Down’s passing game was undone as Instonians fought back. North conceded a short corner which resulted in a goal mouth scramble, the whistle blew and a penalty stroke was awarded to Instonians which was duly converted to make the half time score 1-1.

For a brief spell in the second half North Down revived the passing game. McKibben started the move down the left before cutting back to Revill at the top of the circle who fed a through ball to Bond who finished the job with a shot in to the bottom left hand corner.

This however proved to be a false dawn and Instonians hit back within a minute. The North Down left back was outdone for pace before the Inst striker equalised from the edge of the circle

From then on North Down became their own worst enemy, the passing game of the first half long forgotten. Time and time again the ball was given away and sooner or later Inst were going to capitalize. That moment occurred when the ball was given away cheaply in the right back position, the inst player rounding the defence before cutting it back to a college who finished from 3 yards to put the home team ahead for the first time.

It went from bad to worse as again a needless free was conceded on the edge of the North Down circle and before you could say ‘Early Christmas present!’ the score line was 4-2 with Inst looking for more.

With North Down now on the ropes Inst smelt blood and soon added a 5th with a fine solo goal from one of their midfielders. North Down were now hanging on for the final whistle and Inst were only denied a 6th by the umpire’s whistle who spotted an infringement before the ball was thumped home.

Full time came and the fifths had succumbed to their second five goal defeat in as many matches. It is now left to the home game this weekend against Mossley to try and get the season started.

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:: Mens seconds round up

By PW
05/10/2010

Mens Seconds Round Up

Since your reporters last report the men’s seconds have played two games – against Instonians and Mossley.

Two weeks ago North Down suffered a heavy defeat against Instonians going down by seven goals to nil. North Down started the game well and enjoyed the majority of territory and possession creating a couple of half chances without troubling the Instonians keeper. Instonians looked dangerous on the break and so they proved to be as they scored two quick goals from open play and a short corner. This heralded a collapse from the North Down side who played some of the worst hockey they have played in years to go six down at half time.

In the second half North Down raised their performance and probably created more chances against an Instonians side that were happy that the points were in the bag. However several good chances were squandered and with fifteen minutes to go Instonians scored their seventh and final goal to leave the final score at 7-0.

A poor twenty minutes from the North Down side proved costly in this game. The Farmview Dairies Man of the Match went to Ricky McMillan who rose above the mediocrity of his team mates.

Following two heavy defeats in their first two games North Down needed to bounce back quickly and this they did last Saturday beating Mossley seconds away.

With only eleven fit players, no umpire and no coach for a variety of reasons North Downs preparations for the game were not ideal but a determined seconds took the game to Mossley from the start dominating the first half but squandering a number of chances. They were hit by a sucker punch when Mossley scored from one of their rare forays into the North Down circle with five minutes of the half remaining.

In the second half North Down again dominated play with their work rate and speed proving too much for Mossley. Ten minutes into the second half North Down scored the equaliser through a Scotty Moore reverse stick shot – deserved reward for Scotty who caused the Mossley defenders problems the whole game. With ten minutes to go North Down got the winning goal their play deserved when Stephen Forrest hit another reverse stick shot to win the game for North Down.

An excellent performance and result for the seconds. The forward trio of Gareth Bailie, Scotty Moore and Stephen Forrest excelled thanks to the hard work of their team mates. Farmview Dairies Man of the Match went to Scotty Moore. Many thanks to Mossley for supplying two umpires, both of whom had excellent games.

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:: MENS FIRST ELEVEN OPEN UP WITH WIN OVER BANGOR

By R Mitchell
04/10/2010

In the opening Premier League game of the season North Down entertained Bangor at Comber Leisure Centre. A 2-1 victory gave North Down the ideal start to their campaign but their performance left a lot to be desired and Bangor will feel aggrieved that they did not get something from the game.

North Down got the ideal start after five minutes. Tom Donnan won the ball in midfield and played an inch perfect pass to Scott Caruth who beat the advancing Tormey and Simon Watt was on hand to tap the ball over the line. Bangor slowly played their way into the game and only some fine goalkeeping from Coates ensured that the home team maintained their lead. Firstly he made a save from a well worked corner followed quickly by two fine saves from open play then Watt showed fine skill at the other end but the North Down forwards failed to penetrate the Bangor circle. North Down old boy Simon Hunter won a corner but Conway blocked the shot from ex Cookstown star Ivan Sheen and just before halftime Cox blasted a reverse effort wide to leave North Down one goal ahead at the interval.

Steen, dominating play in midfield, was creating problems for North Down but it was North Down who increased their lead after 45 minutes. From their one and only penalty corner Caruth’s effort was blocked but the same player was on hand to blast the rebound past the Bangor keeper. A long ball from Donnan then found Watt but his shot was saved and this was the cue for Bangor to put together a period of pressure. The visitors won a corner but failed to get the delivery right and the danger was cleared then Coates had to be on his toes to clear after a strong run from Steen. With 15 minutes remaining, Hunter reduced the deficit when Willis failed to clear and the ball was squeezed over the line. Bangor had only one further serious effort on goal when a Steen flick was pushed round the post by Coates.

North Down held on for a fortunate victory and will need to show a much improved performance when they entertain Premier League new boys Civil Service next week if they are to maintain the perfect start to the league Campaign.

Farmview Dairies Players of the Match: Andy Corry and Andy Coates.

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:: LADIES SECONDS LOSE AT HARLEQUINS

By Jenna Hoey
04/10/2010

North Down seconds travelled to Belfast for their league fixture with Harlequins 3rds at Deramore Park last Friday night. If the previous week the seconds looked relaxed, this time they looked sharp from minute one playing against a strong attacking Harlequins.

Play was evenly matched in the first fifteen minutes with North Down holding their own with some outstanding effort on the right by Nicky Reid and several attempts at goal. It was unfortunate, despite a tight defence which had Rebecca Brown and Fiona Ellis in excellent form, that Harlequins put two goals into the back of the net by half time.

The North Down girls came back fighting with an excellent goal scored by Nicky Reid but this however made the Harlequins girls even more determined and the second half was mostly dominated by their forwards leading to a further three goals in the second half. Only good defending at the back by Rachel Mornin and keeper Linda Marshall kept the home team from adding further to their score.

Despite the final result of 5-1 to Harlequins North Down seconds played an excellent game and showed promising form for the season to come!

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:: Ladies 1st's Draw with Grenisland in League

By KHaslett
04/10/2010

The ladies 1st's travelled to Carrickfergus on Saturday and salvaged a point after a slow start to the league campaign. The team were missing a few key players on Saturday, but the team still needed to produce a good performance in the first league game of the season.

The girls started slowly in the first half with Greenisland applying all the pressure around the North Down circle. The girls struggled to string the passing together in defense and midfield, which put the North Down defense under alot of unnecessary pressure.

The first goal was scored 15 minutes into the first half by Greenisland after some slack marking in defense and the goal being scored at the far post. North Down were then subjected to a number of Greenisland short corners and managed to defend them well to keep the score at 1 -0 going into half time.

The second half of the game showed more enthusiasm and better skills from the North Down girls to gain confidence in attacking the Greenisland defense. North Down started to show their true form by keeping good possession in the first ten minutes.

Amy Benson showed some great individual skill and created good chances for the girls to gain some momentum in the match. North Down then went down to 10 players after a player was sin binned for not backing off the full 5 metres at a free. The team reacted well to the sin bin and showed great character in attacking the Greenisland team with 10 players.

A great run from Amy Benson down the line created a chance for Ashleigh McLaughlin to score a good goal with 8 minutes to play. The North Down goal then sparked more pressure on the Greenisland Defense and North Down managed to win a short corner in the last couple of minutes of the game.

The short corner chance was narrowly missed when the ball clipped the outside of the post. The Greenisland team were glad to see the final whistle blown as North Down finished the game strongly.

The game finished with a draw after a spirited come back from the girls, but the team need to turn their attention to the home game to Omagh this week.

Farmview Player of the Match is Amy Benson.

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:: MENS THIRDS HAVE TOUGH DRAW WITH RAPHOE THIRDS

By P Revill
04/10/2010

North Down thirds entertained Raphoe thirds, who made the long trip from Donegal, at Comber Leisure Centre last Saturday. The home side started confidently with plenty of possession and took early control of the game. With Jamie McKee out injured for a minimum of three months after his serious leg fracture last week, his place was taken by young Matthew Welsh. He proved to be a more than adequate replacement and his strong tackling and accurate ball distribution were a feature of the game.

As the first half progressed North Down began to create chances. A powerful burst of pace from Ryan Galway saw the speedy forward linking up with Sam Pyper whose skilful run ended with a shot just wide of the post. Shortly after Pyper’s effort, Nicholson smashed a 30 yard pass to the back post but Revill was unable to convert and the half finished scoreless with North Down thirds on top.

Raphoe's half time team talk certainly seemed to be a strong one as they started the second half a different side, attacking and playing spells of good hockey resulting in a goal on 45 minutes. Just as in the previous week, when the thirds had also conceded an early second half goal, they had a job to do. Straight from the centre spot Pyper went solo, skilfully passing several players before winning a free on the edge of the circle which led to a short corner. His blistering strike crashed off the post and Raphoe did well to clear their lines. After an hour’s play North Down eventually found the equaliser through Ryan Galway when more good work from Pyper set him up in front of goal and his sweep into the bottom corner beat the keeper on his strong side.

Despite a consistent spell of late pressure the thirds couldn’t convert the result into three points and although this was another solid performance, they are unbeaten with a win and two draws, chances need to be turned to goals.

Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Ryan Galway

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:: LADIES FIFTHS LOSE TO DERG VALLEY

By L Lappin
04/10/2010

A young North Down 5th XI made the 200-mile round trip to play Derg Valley 2nd XI in the ONE 1918 Junior League 9 at Castlederg High School last Saturday.

From the first whistle, both teams were in great attacking form with Derg Valley having many opportunities to score but North Down’s goalkeeper, Sheona Whiteside, made several excellent saves to keep the score at 0-0 at half time.

When the second half got under way North Down had more opportunities to score with amazing runs down the left wing by Shannon White. The North Down defence worked extremely well together and fought off Derg Valley for most of the match, but the opposition managed to sneak a late goal past Whiteside to make the final score 1-0 to the home team.

Farmview Dairies Player of the Match: Shannon White

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:: MISSING SET OF RED SHIRTS

By J Patterson
29/09/2010

The set of red shirts used by men's teams for away fixtures is missing. If you have it, or have any of the individual shirts which make up the kit, contact me asap. It is needed for this weekend.

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:: LADIES FOURTHS TOO GOOD FOR HOLYWOOD 2NDS

By R Murray
29/09/2010

With no subs available North Down 4ths took on Holywood 2nds at Ards Leisure Centre last Saturday. It was going to be a tall order to outperform Holywood but the girls did it in style!
The first half saw some beautiful play between the backs and midfield spreading the ball wide to the forwards gaining momentum every step of the way, which in turn led to goal scoring opportunities. Within ten minutes North down went ahead with a fantastic strike by Irene McCaughan following a penalty corner and soon after the same player added another from a second penalty corner scoring after receiving a great pass from Kathy Taylor. Such team work!
The fourths then scored a third goal again by McCaughan for her hattrick following some great play from the mid field and forwards working together. Just before half time, against the run of play, Holywood put one past Ashleigh Gorman in goals to make the half time score 3-1.
After a strong team talk by captain Rachel Murray the team went back on the pitch with their tails up. It did not take long for McCaughan to pop another one past the Holywood keeper again from an excellent pass from Taylor. Holywood were soon back on the attack and scored straight after this bringing the score to 4-2. Ashleigh Gorman then made a tremendous save at a crucial stage in the match to keep the fourths out of Holywood’s reach. Just before the end, a fifth goal was then scored by Taylor to make the final score 5-2 in favour of North Down.

Overall a tremendous performance with every member of the team digging deep and giving their all! Congratulations go to Irene McCaughan and Kathy Taylor for jointly sharing the Player of the Match award!

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:: MEN'S THIRDS SNATCH LATE DRAW

By P Revill
28/09/2010

North Down thirds travelled last Saturday to Loughmoss to face a recently demoted Annadale 4th XI. As last week, the thirds were slow out of the blocks in the first half and Annadale dominated possession early on. As the game developed, the thirds grew into the match and Ryan Galway, with some good movement and pace, outran the Annadale right back to get on the end of an accurate long ball from Pyper but his shot was well saved by the keeper. More chances fell to the visitors. Firstly a skilful run from Murray gave him a shot on goal which was well saved. Annadale were being more and more pressured in the circle and gave away four short corners in quick succession which the thirds were unable to convert due to a fine performance from the Annadale keeper. At the other end, Annadale also won 2 short corners but were equally unsuccessful and it finished 0 – 0 at the interval.

North Down made a promising start to the second period keeping the ball in the home teams half for long spells. A good run and link up play from Kitchen and Shannon at the edge of the circle gave Kitchen a shot on goal which was just wide of the target. On 45 minutes Annadale broke the deadlock with a soft goal against the run of play and for a few nervous minutes this set back the visitors as they had been the dominant team so far. On the hour mark, the thirds suffered a major blow as Jamie McKee fell awkwardly sustaining a broken leg and knee ligament damage. With Annadale still looking strong time started to run out for the away side who kept plugging patiently away. They were finally rewarded with five minutes remaining when Mark Shannon, playing for the first time against his former club, scored a late equaliser and nearly the winner moments later with a great strike from the edge of the circle which was saved once again!

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:: MONDAY NIGHT TRAINING

By R Mitchell
28/09/2010

To clear up some confusion ....... training on Monday nights will continue at Lisnagarvey for the month of October from 8.00pm - 9.30pm. The venue will revert to Comber Leisure Centre from November.

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:: BAD BREAK FOR JAMIE

By J Patterson
28/09/2010

Best wishes to Jamie McKee for a speedy recovery from a broken leg sustained in the thirds game at Loughmoss last Saturday.

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:: Ladies 1st's lose to Omagh in the Ulster Shield

By KHaslett
27/09/2010

The ladies 1st's played the final Ulster Shield game against Omagh at home on Saturday. The girls were evenly matched against Omagh from recent results in the Ulster Shield and were looking forward to the game.

North Down started the better team for the first twenty minutes of the game. Mullin and Speers showed great confidence in defence and played some very good hockey in the Omagh half. McKee started well with some good runs down the right hand side with good link up play with Mockford. Lauren Brown also showed great enthusiasm with plenty of good runs and link up play with the midfield.
The girls imposed early pressure in the Omagh circle with three penalty corners awarded, but failed to capitalise from the chances.

Omagh then started to play their way into the game with Da Costa making a good save 25 minutes into the game on the right post. Omagh continued to put pressure on the North Down team with a number of penalty corners well defended by Speers and Da Costa.
The first half ended 0-0 with both teams squandering chances.

The second half started brightly for Omagh with a goal after five minutes after a number of simple errors in the North Down defence. North Down bounced back well with a number of good runs from Dawson and Mitchell in midfield, but the girls failed to take the chances. A few corners were awarded to North Down, but the girls struggled to break the Omagh defence.

Against the run of play, Omagh then scored a second goal 15 minutes into the second half. The goal was soft by North Down's standards with a number of missed tackles before the ball crept over the line. The girls showed character in finishing the match strongly, but failed to convert the possession into a goal.

The ladies now move into the first league game on Saturday, which is away to Greenisland and they are all looking forward to putting right the last two games.

Farmview Player of the Match was Lauren Brown.

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:: FIRST ELEVEN LOSE NARROWLY AT BANBRIDGE

By R Mitchell
27/09/2010

North Down travelled to Banbridge last Saturday for the final group game in the Kirk Cup. Both teams had won their previous 2 games and knew that the winners of this game would progress to the semi-final stage.

Bann opened at the fastest pace and controlled possession for the first 10 minutes. McCandless had a reverse shot from the edge of the circle well saved by Andy Coates. After 10 minutes McCandless had a corner saved at the expense of another and he blasted the ball past the helpless Coates. Johnny Moore, whose pace was causing problems for Banbridge, found himself clear of the Bann defence however, Lennox blocked his run at the edge of the circle and the ball broke to Scott Caruth. His shot came off a defender’s leg but to general amazement the umpire awarded a hit out.

Moore found himself in a similar situation minutes later but again was denied by Lennox. A long ball upfield found Simon Watt who won a penalty corner for North Down but Caruth’s effort was well saved by the keeper at the foot of the post. North Down kept the pressure on the home team when Corry broke from the back and fed Moore but the young striker ran the ball over the by-line. Just before halftime Cooper took a quick free and won a corner but the delivery was not good and the danger was cleared.

Banbridge moved up a gear in the second half and Coates was by far the busier of the two keepers. He made a fine save from open play and then made an even better one from a McCandless piledriver at a corner. Bann pushed for a second goal and Coates had to make a double save at yet another penalty corner. On 55 minutes, North Down should have won a free for a stick tackle but the umpire allowed play to continue and the ball broke to a Bann forward at the top of the circle who squeezed the ball past Coates for Banbridge’s second goal.

Showing great character the visitors responded to this setback with a period of pressure on the home defence. Spratt picked the ball up in midfield and was blocked just outside the twenty two metre line but the resulting free came to nothing. Richard Cooper who had an excellent game in midfield was then caught in possession and it took a superb tackle from Willis to clear the danger. In the dying minutes of the game North Down threw themselves a lifeline when Caruth, whose strong running was causing all sorts of problems, was obstructed by McCandless as he was about to shoot. He made no mistake from the resulting corner blasting the ball past Lennox.

Although defeated, North Down will take forward much that was positive to the league campaign which begins at home this Saturday to neighbours Bangor.
Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Andy Coates

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:: LADIES FIFTHS LOSE OUT TO CIVIL SERVICE THIRDS

By Lyndsey Lappin
27/09/2010

North Down 5th XI played NICS 3rd XI in the ONE 1918 Junior league 9 at Nendrum College last Saturday. From the first pass back North Down were on the attack and, despite having many opportunities to score, were unable to get the ball past the Civil Service goalkeeper and the score remained 0-0 at half time.

North Down started the second half with lots of determination, but unfortunately the visiting Service team dominated throughout. Olivia Brown made several good runs towards goal with excellent passing from Gillian Neill but was unsuccessful. Despite some good saves from goalkeeper Sheona Whiteside and defending by player of the match Shannon Berry, North Down conceded 2 late goals bringing the score to 2-0 at full time.

The team would like to thank Sally Rodgers for umpiring.

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:: LANDMARK GOAL FOR PETER SHIELDS

By J Patterson
27/09/2010

With his penalty stroke goal for the 4ths last Saturday Peter Shields becomes the first North Down player ever to reach the 250 goal milestone! Well done Pete and who would bet against him getting to 300?

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:: EASY WIN FOR LADIES SECONDS

By K Barker
27/09/2010

Saturday saw a lively North Down second string face a rather lacklustre Pegasus third eleven in Comber. From the start it was clear that the Comber girls had the upper hand in terms of pace. Both sides of the pitch were well utilised with Selina Lewis and Helen McGaughey commanding the right flank and Laura Murray, who stepped in as sweeper, proved very strong as she prevented any play reaching the North Down defensive circle. The opening goal resulted from great play by Helen McGaughey in the circle whose final pass to Ashleigh McLaughlin found the striker well positioned to slot the ball past a capable Pegasus keeper.

The second half saw more of the same with Rebecca Brown proving her worth at left back laying on some great balls up the pitch for the midfield to run on to. Rachel Mornin, a new start at right back, completed a determined run with a pass to Ashleigh McLaughlin who knocked the ball in for North Down's second goal. The game looked sure to finish at 2-0 when a penalty corner was awarded to North Down. The ball came to Nikki Reid who slipped it to Kerri Burnside who made sure the ball landed in the back of the net for a secure 3 – 0 victory.
Farmview Dairies Player of the Match: Laura Murray.

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:: Ladies 1st XI v Victorians Match Report

By KHaslett
23/09/2010

The Ladies 1st XI played Victorians at Deramore Park on Wednesday night in the Ulster Shield and lost 3-1 in a game of two halves. The first half started with Victorians applying early pressure on the North Down defense, but the girls rallied well and settled into the game.
Victorians then scored the first goal from a short corner decision, but the North Down team bounced back really well. The team started to play some good hockey with good attacks down the wing from Mockford and Grimason. The pressure eventually paid off with a goal being scored by Zara Miller to level the game at 1-1.
Adrienne Da Costa then pulled off the save of the season so far to keep the girls at 1-1 going into half time.

The start of the second half was a disappointing performance from the girls with a number of errant passes and the first touch lacking at times. Some basic errors cost the girls two early goals in the second half to make the scoreline 3 – 1.
However, North Down kept playing and eventually won a penalty stroke and unfortunately Laura Clarke couldn’t convert. North Down also achieved a number of penalty corners towards the end of the match, but couldn’t provide the clinical finishing required.

The score line maybe didn’t reflect the chances created in the Victorians circle, but the girls have some work ahead to ensure the match day performance matches the training sessions.
Unfortunately the end of the game saw Janice Scott take a nasty blow to the hand and badly broke a finger, which will put her out of action for a while. A bad blow for the team, but the girl’s wish her all the best in a speedy recovery.
The team now play Omagh in the last game of the Ulster Shield on Saturday, so the coaches will be looking for a much improved performance before heading into the league.

Player of the Match: Adrienne Da Costa.

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:: Ladies 1st XI v Victorians (Ulster Shield)

By KHaslett
22/09/2010

The Ladies 1st XI travel to Deramore Park on Wednesday night to play Victorians in the Winemark Shield. The game starts at 8:15pm. After a couple of good performances against the two premier league teams, the girls will be looking forward to getting back to winning ways.

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:: MEN'S FIFTHS CRASH OUT IN SAINTFIELD

By Bond, ......... Peter Bond!
21/09/2010

Saintfield 2nds proved too much for a young North Down 5th XI who crashed to a 5-1 defeat at The Demense last Saturday.

The 5ths started brightly and a good passing move down the left resulted in a Lewis Ayton shot deflecting off the keeper and rolling toward the goal with opportunist Peter Bond stealing in ahead of the defender to make sure and give North Down an early lead. However for the visitors this was the best that there was and things went downhill from here.

First of all they were undone by a powerful short corner and once again when North Down failed to clear their lines. Saintfield bossed the midfield and a cutting move down their right opened up North Down again to make it 3-1 before half time. North Down changed it around after the break but failed to capitalise on any early dominance and were soon 4-1 down midway through the second half.

Saintfield rounded off a good performance with another short corner to make it 5-1. On another day Saintfield could have had more but for a fine individual display on his debut by North Down keeper Chris Blaney who made a series of saves from the rampant Saintfield forwards.

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:: Mens seconds learn harsh lesson at Cookstown

By PW
20/09/2010

North Down 2’s v Cookstown 2’s

Cookstown High School

Junior one

On Saturday a much changed men’s seconds made the journey to Cookstown to take on Cookstown 2’s. Missing several players the seconds were concerned with how this game would pan out but although they lost 8-2 there were a lot of positives to be gained in the North Down display.

North Down created the first chance when Andrew Shannon beat several players and put in a great cross that just somehow managed to miss all the players in the circle. Cookstown began to show their experience and scored after five minutes from a short corner. The continued to pressure the North Down circle and scored further goals to go four up. North Down responded with good combination play between Ricky McMillan and Stephen Forrest allowing Forrest to score an excellent goal.

The pattern of the second half was very much like the first with Cookstown pressing and North Down looking dangerous on the break. The scoreline matched the first with Cookstown scoring a further four and North Down responding, this time through Michael Black who scored from the top of the circle.

Whilst being outclassed by their opponents the spirit and work rate of the seconds was excellent throughout the game. Good performances were made by Jordan Linter, who was solid at right back and Stephen Forrest who caused problems for the Cookstown defence when he got the ball. However the Farmview Dairies man of the match went to Ricky McMillan who allied a great work rate with good skills to be a constant thorn in the side of the Cookstown defence.

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:: MEN'S 1ST XI EASE THROUGH AGAINST HARLEQUINS

By R Mitchell
20/09/2010

The men's 1st XI comfortably eased past Harlequins in a Kirk Cup game at wet and wintery Comber Leisure Centre last Saturday. This result means that this week’s game at Banbridge will decide who progresses to the semi finals. Banbridge will start favourites as they have both home advantage and a better goal difference.

Starting without four regulars through injury and holiday commitments it took only a few minutes for North Down to take the lead. David Sheppard, taking over penalty corners duty from the absent Scott Caruth, expertly converted their first short corner. However, Harlequins who had done well the previous week to restrict Banbridge to 5 goals, equalised after 15 minutes when Andy Coates failed to get a strong hand to a short corner effort.

Worse was to follow for the home team shortly afterwards as Keith Conway presented them with their second when he passed across the circle straight to a Harlequins striker who gave Coates no chance with a well placed shot. North Down piled on the pressure and a fine attacking move was completed when Chris Speers played a ball across the face of goal where Bailie was on hand to glide the ball past the keeper at the near post. Speers gave North Down a 3 – 2 lead before halftime when he picked up a rebound at a corner and scored.

The second half started with North Down, now with a season’s Premier League experience behind them, on the ascendancy and Sheppard increased their lead again with another well taken corner. Both teams fell victim to some overzealous umpiring and at one stage were each reduced to 9 players following a series of mistimed tackles. With the sin bins emptied and both teams restored to a full complement of players it was North Down who put the game out of Harlequins reach with a fifth goal. Conway made amends for his earlier misdemeanour and scored from a corner variation for a rare goal from the stalwart defender. To their credit, Harlequins did not give up the fight and reduced the arrears with 10 minutes remaining. Coates made a good save from a penalty corner but the home team were slow to respond to the rebound and the Harlequins striker nipped in to make the final score 5 – 3.

North Down were buoyed after the game with the news that the talented Graeme Morrison confirmed that he will remain at North Down after there were doubts about Saturday work commitments. However, the 1st XI will have to be at their best this Saturday as they face one of the top teams in the Province to progress in the Kirk Cup, a competition they last won in the 1943/44 season!

Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Richard Cooper

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:: FOURTHS DRAW AT SOUTH ANTRIM

By J Patterson
20/09/2010

The fourth eleven, promoted at the end of last season to Junior League Four, travelled to Lisburn last Saturday to play South Antrim 3rds at a very damp Laurelhill High School. Although they came away with a point from a 3 – 3 draw, they will have been disappointed that they were in the lead three times and didn’t manage to hold on for three points.

Peter Shields opened the scoring on 13 minutes with a drive from the edge of the circle but the home team replied immediately with a well taken penalty corner. Stephen Campbell put the fourths back in front again on 19 minutes when he was at the end of an excellent series of passes which split the home defence. South Antrim again responded within minutes when slack marking at the back by the visitors let in the South Antrim striker for the equaliser to make the half time score 2 – 2.

On 38 minutes Stephen Campbell again put the fourths ahead when, with his colleagues calling for a final pass, the young forward slammed a reverse stick shot past the keeper from wide on the right for the goal of the game. North Down looked well in control for most of the second half despite a tendency to misplace passes and, with Daniel Lavery and Conor Millar making their senior hockey debuts and both looking comfortable, further goals looked inevitable.

Lack of positional discipline however cost the fourths maximum points. With 10 minutes remaining and some defenders committed to all out attack North Down were caught out again at the back and Roger Graham, exposed once too often, was given no chance for another South Antrim equaliser to make the final score 3 – 3.

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:: GOALSCORING MILESTONE ABOUT TO BE REACHED

By J Patterson
20/09/2010

With his goal for the fourth eleven against South Antrim 3rds last Saturday Peter Shields has now moved on to 249 league and cup goals for the Club, far and away from Richard Glover in second place in the all time standings on 222.

It looks as if Peter isn't going to be headed anytime soon as his nearest rival still playing is Sam Pyper on 157. If selected, Peter's next chance to reach 250 will be at home against Instonians 4ths this Saturday.

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:: ***UMPIRE NEEDED FOR TOMORROW***

By ADC
18/09/2010

The ladies 4ths urgently need an umpire for their game tomorrow at 1.00 at Ards Leisure Centre.

You do not need to be an expert by any means. If you can help out please contact Nicky Gregg on 07966757886

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:: LADIES CLUB KIT

By Laura Clarke
17/09/2010

For those ladies who still have to collect their new kit, I will be at the Cricket Club tonight (Friday) at 7.00 pm with the kit HOWEVER if you don't have the money to pay your balance due no kit will be handed over.

Also, I don't intend to spend all night standing in Castle Lane so try to be there at 7.00 if possible.

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:: Men's 1st XI cruise it against Antrim

By R Mitchell
15/09/2010

North Down opened the new hockey season with a home Kirk Cup fixture against Antrim on the super new pitch at Comber Leisure Centre which was only completed a few days before.

Two season ago, in North Down’s promotion and Irish Trophy winning season they played Antrim five times in league and cup matches which resulted in an incredible 41 goals. The sequence continued on Saturday with another 10 but this time it was a comfortable 8 – 2 canter for the Comber boys.

North Down were always in control and won an early short corner which was cleared but this set the tone for the game with Antrim almost always on the back foot and North Down winning a total of 14 short corners throughout the game.

Mark Forrest impressed early with a dribble into the circle before being fouled but Scott Caruth’s effort from the corner was saved. After 7 minutes play Simon Watt won a third corner and Caruth converted with a trademark flick. An inaccurate push out at the next penalty corner on 15 minutes led to a bit of improvisation and Watt converted at the near post to put the home side two up. Five minutes later and North Down were in cruise mode as Tom Donnan got his first senior goal with a strong reverse stick shot. The sustained pressure told on the visitors as they started to lose discipline and several Antrim players were warned by the umpires for over physical tackling and dissent. However, just before half time, they were thrown a lifeline as slack marking in the home defence allowed them to pull a goal back through Mailey to make the half time score 3 – 1.

The second period was dominated by North Down. Within minutes of the restart Donnan’s intelligent play won a corner and Caruth scored with another drag flick which the defenders on the line did well to avoid. In addition, Antrim were unable to cope with Caruth’s strong running in midfield and on a typical foray into Antrim territory he beat several players before finding Watt who crossed for Forrest to score.

David Sheppard, with Donnan looking to establish himself in the team, caught the eye when he won a corner after a good passing movement involving several players and Caruth completed his hattrick. Andy Corry, making his debut for North Down after a summer transfer from Raphoe, combined with Conway to win a corner which Antrim managed to clear of the line. Antrim’s misery continued when Watt played the ball onto a defender’s foot and from the resulting corner got his second. With the visitors continuing to fall foul of both umpires the inevitable sin bin yellow card was issued to McIlroy for dissent but they then got a consolation second goal back when again the home defence failed to clear their lines.

Scott Caruth sealed his Man of the Match award when he rocketed in his fourth after he and Willis had combined to win a corner. Almost on the final whistle more good play by Donnan saw North Down awarded a penalty stroke but Frazer’s feeble effort was easily saved.

Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Scott Caruth

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:: Youth Hockey 2010/11

By PW
13/09/2010

Youth Hockey

The youth section of the club will commence for the coming season from the week beginning Monday 13 September and we look forward to seeing both familiar and new faces.

All our sessions are taken by qualified coaches and emphasise skills development in a relaxed, fun, safe atmosphere.

The commencement of sessions for this year is:

Monday 13th September Boys Form 1 – Form 4 18.00 - 19.00

Tuesday 14th September Girls Form 1 – Form 4 19.00 – 20.00

Sunday 19th September Boys and Girls P2 – P7 13.30 – 14.30

Al sessions take place at Comber Leisure Centre.

In a change from last year the girls training will now include players in fourth form and the training night has changed to Tuesday. The girls will also have a new head coach in the form of Peter Whyte.

New members are always assured of a warm welcome at North Down and we look forward to another successful year for the youth section.

If you are interested in joining, or know anybody who may be interested, please contact our youth development officer, Peter Whyte, on 07775576693 or at whytey111@btinternet.com.

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:: NO LADIES TRAINING WED 15TH SEPT

By ADC
12/09/2010

There will be no ladies training on Wednesday night, as the ladies 1st XI will play their first home game in the Ulster Shield, against Ards, on the new pitch at Comber LC.

This promises to be an exciting local derby, and all club support would be welcome. Pass back is at 7.15

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:: Ladies 1st XI v Ballymoney in Ulster Shield

By KHaslett
11/09/2010

The ladies 1st XI travelled to Ballymoney today in the first match of the Ulster Shield against a strong Ballymoney team from the Premier League. The ladies lost the match 3 - 0, but the scoreline does not reflect the hard work and effort put in by the team.
The girls started off very well by keeping the scoreline at 0-0 for the first 25 mins of the game. A number of Ballymoney short corners were well defended by North Down with some great saves from Da Costa and Louise Speers closing the shots down very well.
Despite the girls conceding two goals in the last 10 minutes of the first half, the team achieved a couple of guilt edge chances in front of the Ballymoney net.
Dawson created a number of great opportunities down the right flank with her crosses creating havoc in the Ballymoney defence. Unfortunately North Down couldn't get the ball in the net, but the chances created gave the team confidence.
The second half started well for North Down with a solid opening 20 minutes. McKee and Mitchell worked very hard in midfield to contain the Ballymoney attacks. A dubious penalty stroke was then awarded to Ballymoney who scored to make it 3-0. Again the response from the North Down girls was excellent and the last 15 minutes of the game was very impressive from the North Down players with a great work ethic in midfield and up front.
Benson had a couple of good breaks through the Ballymoney defence with a 1v1 with the keeper and was unlucky not to win a penalty stroke.
Haslett and Linter were very pleased with the commitment from the players today against a team who are playing in the Irish Hockey League this year. The difference in the teams performance and approach has been brilliant since last season. Both coaches now look forward to the mid week match against Ards, which should be a good game.

Player of the Match is Louise Speers for her fantastic work at the defensive corners and open play.

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:: Training arrangements for remainder of week

By PW
08/09/2010

Ladies club training - Wednesday 8th at Nendrum College 19.00-20.30

Mens club training - Thursday 9th at Nendrum College 19.00-20.30

All training from next week will be at Comber LC at the usual times bar mens training on Monday at Garvey

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:: Womens Hockey World Cup - TV Coverage

By KHaslett
06/09/2010

The Women’s Hockey World Cup from Argentina is being shown live by Indian TV channel, Zee Café, on Sky Channel 846.

You can also see full videos of the matches already played and live video streaming here:
http://www.laola1.tv/en/int/field-hockey/video/206--.html.

This site also has full videos of the 2010 Men’s and Ladies’ Champions Trophy matches.

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:: Kirk Cup commences 11 Sept

By robin mitchell
06/09/2010

The competitive programme for the 1st xi begins on Saturday 11 September with a home game in the Kirk Cup against Antrim.League competition for all other teams starts 18 September.
Coaches Paul Johnston and Brian Davis completed their pre season warm up games with a visit at the weekend to Dublin where games were played against Weston and Monkstown.Spratt,Caruth and Sheppard scored in a 3-1 win over Weston and Caruth and Sheppard scored in a 3-2 defeat against Monkstown.
After lack lustre performances against South Antrim the previous week the coaches were pleased to see a big improvement against the Southern opposition and now look forward to the commencement of the competitive programme.

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:: 1st XI Ladies Training on 6th Sept

By Hassy
04/09/2010

The Ladies 1st XI squad will be training at Lisnagarvey on Monday from 8pm to 9:30pm. Please meet at 7:45.

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:: Ladies 1st XI v Civil Service 1st Friendly

By Hassy
27/08/2010

The Ladies 1st XI will be playing Civil Service 1st XI tomorrow at 1pm on the new water based pitch at Civil Service. Club support would be welcome.

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:: McKibben Brothers for All Ireland Final

By PW
23/08/2010

Good luck to brothers, Andrew and Peter McKibben, who will travel to Dublin on Thursday to play for North Down U15's in the All Ireland U15 Cricket final.

Good luck to Andrew and Peter and indeed all the North Down squad.

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:: Mens training arrangements this week

By PW
23/08/2010

Tuesday 23 August - club training for all at Nendrum College (meet at 6:45)

Thursday 26 August - mens first eleven v South Antrim. No training for rest of club but why not come down and support the firsts in their first pre-season game

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:: Friendly v NICS

By Keith Haslett
23/08/2010

The North Down Ladies 1st XI travelled up to the new hockey grounds at Civil Service on Saturday to play a friendly against Civil Service Ladies 1st XI.
The North Down team got off to a good start in the hockey match with plenty of pressure imposed in the Civil Service circle.
A number of chances were squandered over the short corners in the first half, but the team showed some good passages of play.
The North Down team left the door open on a couple of occasions with a couple of mistakes and errant passes at the end of the first half. However, Adrienne Da Costa has managed to shake off her ankle injury with a couple of good saves.

The second half showed improvement for North Down, with better passages of play in the midfield. Lauren Brown showed some good skill with plenty of energy moving up and down the right hand side. North Down again had a number of chances to score the first goal, but lacked the finishing touch inside the circle.
The best opportunity of the game fell to Laura Clarke when she received a good pass into the circle. Laura managed to turn and score, but the umpire failed to give North Down the advantage with a short corner awarded instead.
At 0 – 0, with 10 minutes to go, the hard pre-season training was starting to show with the girls winning good tackles and imposing pressure in the Service half.
The pressure eventually paid off when Laura Clarke managed to convert a chance into a goal with a reverse stick shot in the last 2 minutes of the game.
A good win for the North Down team in their first game, but the girls will need to keep working hard on the basics to give the team a good platform for the season.
There were a number of good individual performances throughout the match with the captain Rebbeca Mitchell showing plenty of energy and Louise Speers playing solid in defence.
However, player of the match goes to Hannah McKee with a great work ethic in midfield and some good passages of play down the right hand side.

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:: Ladies training arrangements

By CW
18/08/2010

Training on Monday night at Nendrum College 19.00-20.30 - first eleven squad only.

Training on Wednesday night at Nendrum College 19.00-20.30 - for everybody.

Sorry for any confusion caused on Monday night

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:: 1ST XI MEN'S WARM UP MATCHES

By J Patterson
12/08/2010

The men's 1st XI will play 2 pre-season warm up matches in Dublin on 4 September. They play Weston at 12.15 pm and Monkstown at 4.00 pm.

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:: International Hockey Masters Tournament

By J Patterson
11/08/2010

Later this month teams from 5 European countries will gather in Hillsborough to compete in Ireland’s first International Hockey Masters Tournament. Hosted by the Irish Men’s team, the competition will take place over a 3 day period at Lisnagarvey Hockey Club commencing on Saturday 21st August until Monday 23rd August 2010.

This is the first time the tournament has been formally hosted by Ireland and with the recent increased development of Masters Hockey here in Ireland over the last few years it should prove to be a fantastic spectacle of hockey.

Following the success of the Ireland men in the International Masters World Cup in Hong Kong in October 2009 where they finished in fifth place, the opportunity to host this tournament is a tremendous achievement for Ireland and one that shows how respected they have become in International circles.

Tournament organiser Andy Nye commented “It is fantastic that we got the opportunity to host this tournament here in Ireland. We made a lot of friends in China at the World Cup and when the opportunity arose we jumped at it”. Andy and his team have put a lot of work into the preparation of the tournament to make sure it runs smoothly and that spectators can come and enjoy the hockey festival atmosphere.

There will be 5 Nations competing Ireland, England, Scotland, Wales & Germany and the tournament will showcase 12 men & women’s teams. The addition of the German national sides is a great coup for the organisers with the Germans regarded as one of the top hockey nations in the world. The tournament is FREE entry and will run all day from 9am on each of the 3 days. Food & refreshments will be served each day and it will be fun for all the family. A professional hockey shop will also be on site over the weekend for the budding hockey enthusiasts among us.

Organisers are welcoming names of boys & girls who are interested in being ball boys/girls during the tournament and are asked to contact Andy Nye directly at nye_andy@hotmail.com

Why not come along and enjoy the fun as this is a great opportunity to see some international hockey on your door step.
For more information about Ireland Masters or the Home Nations Plus tournament 2010 check out the official website at www.irelandmasters.com

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:: O'NE 1918 ULSTER SHIELD DRAW FOR LADIES

By J Patterson
06/08/2010

The ladies O'NE 1918 Ulster Shield fixtures are as follows:
11 Sept V Ballymoney (A)
midweek V Ards (H)
18 Sept No game
midweek V Victorians (A)
25 Sept V Omagh (H)

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:: MEN'S KIRK CUP DRAW

By J Patterson
04/08/2010

The men's 1st XI have been drawn to play Harlequins, Banbridge and Antrim in their section of the Kirk Cup.

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:: *IMPORTANT* CHANGE OF SUPPLIER OF LADIES CLUB KIT

By LC
30/07/2010

After problems recently coming to light regarding the Ladies kit order from Canterbury, due to this company being in administration last year, it was communicated that our order would not be ready until November at the earliest. It was decided by Committee that this wait was not feasible and the club will now get the ladies kit from ONE1918.

The kit will be approx. Ł45 and the order will be placed on Thursday. Therefore can I ask all members of the ladies club who did not do so on Monday night to please contact Laura Clarke with your sizes via email l_clarkie10@hotmail.co.uk The club appreciates that many of you have already done this through Premier Sports and apologize for any inconvenience this has caused however the club will be dealing with ONE1918 directly.

**A Ł20 deposit is due at training on Wednesday night**

This kit is compulsory for the new season

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:: ***LADIES TRAINING CHANGE OF VENUE***

By adc
29/07/2010

For those of you who were coming to Stormont on Saturday, the venue has changed to Crawfordsburn Country Park. The Euro Pipe Band Championships are on at Sormont so I assumed you wouldn't want to run around men in kilts.

Meet at the toilets in the car park at 10am sharp and ring me if you have any problems.

Please spread the word.

Adrienne
07740443390

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:: T R A I N I N G ! ! !

By R Mitchell
25/07/2010

Pre season fitness training starts this week. Ladies are Mondays and Wednesdays at 7.00 pm sharp and men are Tuesdays and Thursdays also at 7.00 pm.

Initial fitness training will be at Park Way.

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:: IRISH UNDER 16 GIRLS FINISH FOURTH

By J Patterson
19/07/2010

Disappointment for Chloe Brown as the Ireland Under 16 team lost 2-1 to Belgium in the bronze medal play off at the European Championship tournament in Barcelona at the weekend. Losing 2-0 at half time they pulled a goal back in the second half but it was not enough.

Holland defeated Spain 3-0 in the final.

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:: IRELAND U16 GIRLS LOSE OUT IN SEMIS

By J Patterson
17/07/2010

The Irish Under 16 girls team featuring Chloe Brown lost 5-1 to Holland last night in the European Championships in Barcelona. They play Belgium today at 4.00 pm in the 3rd/4th place play off. This game will be followed by the final between Spain and Holland at 6.30 pm.

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:: BABY BOY FOR THE MCGIMPSEYS

By R Mitchell
14/07/2010

Congratulations to our friend and webmaster Andy McGimpsey and wife Natasha on the birth yesterday morning of a baby boy William Ellis who weighed in at a very healthy 10lbs 5ozs. Mother and baby are reported to be doing well!

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:: Order your new ladies' kit - NOW!

By Jim Patterson
13/07/2010

The new ladies Canterbury playing kit, white shirts, navy blue skirts and navy socks with white tops, is available now to order. It is only available from Premier Sports in Comber. To be sure of getting what you want you must place your order by 17 July for delivery in late August/early September.

Prices as follows: Shirts Ł32, skorts Ł26, socks Ł8 - or all three for Ł60. Sizes are the usual ladies from 8 - 16.

This kit is compulsory for the new season.

Contact Peter Shields at Premier Sports on 9187 2220 or by email to ipshields@hotmail.com.

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:: BABY GIRL FOR STEPHEN AND CLAIRE MAGEE

By Jim Patterson
02/07/2010

Belated congratulations to Stephen and Claire on the birth of their baby daughter Caroline Lisa four weeks ago. Sorry for the delay Stevie in getting it onto the website but our news reporter was away having a baby of her own.

Everyone in the Club will be particularly pleased to hear this good news.

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:: PETER MCKIBBEN PICKED ON ULSTER U16 DEVELOPMENT SQUAD

By P Whyte
02/07/2010

Congratulations to Peter McKibben who, at 13 years old, has been selected onto the Ulster Under 16 Development squad.

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:: CHLOE BROWN SELECTED FOR IRISH OLYMPICS HOCKEY TEAM

By Jim Patterson
30/06/2010

Chloe Brown has been selected for the Irish Youth Olympics team for the inaugural Youth Olympics which will be held in Singapore this August.

This is the latest representative honour to come the way of the talented 16 year old who now becomes the first active member of North Down to make an Olympic squad.

Chloe, who attends Nendrum College in Comber, is a product of the North Down youth development system and received much of her early basic skills training from coaches Trevor Allsop and Terry Ritchie. Since then she has moved through the various Ulster and Irish development squads at her age level all of which requires a substantial commitment in time and money not only from Chloe herself but her parents Stephanie and Stephen.

All of the hockey competition in Singapore will be held at the Sengkang National Hockey Stadium from 16 – 25 August. However, the Singapore trip won’t be the next opportunity to get the passport out for Chloe as she is off to Barcelona in July to play for the Ireland Under 16 team in the European Championships.

A busy summer for Chloe and all at North Down wish her every success!

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:: EASY QUESTION

By J Patterson
30/06/2010

So ...................... who was North Down's previous Olympian??? Answers on the guestbook.

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:: Mens Pre Season Training

By robin mitchell
28/06/2010

Arrangements have been put in place for pre season training which will commence on 27 July.

These are as follows:

Tuesdays and Thursdays at Park Way 7.00-8.30.p.m for physical training commencing 27 July.

Tuesdays and Thursdays at Nendrum High School 7.00-8.30 p.m. from 17 August.

From 6 September 1st xi squad will train at Garvey 8.00-9.30 p.m. on Mondays and Nendrum College on Thursdays.

When work on pitch at Leisure Centre has been completed new arrangements will be put in place.

It is also proposed to arrange a pre season tour to Dublin .Watch this space for further information.

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:: IHA COACHING CONFERENCE

By J Patterson
23/06/2010

The Irish Hockey Association's annual COACHING CONFERENCE will be held at Banbridge HC on Saturday 4 September.

Key presenters are: Paul Revington - Senior Men's Head Coach, Gene Muller - Senior Women's Head Coach and David Passmore - High Performance Director.

Any of our coaches wishing to attend, please contact Peter Whyte.

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:: OFFICIAL OPENING OF COOKSTOWN'S NEW PITCH

By J Patterson
19/06/2010

Laura Clarke and Rebecca Mitchell represented North Down on the Ulster Presidents XI against Cookstown Ladies at the official opening of the Cookstown club's impressive new pitch at Coolnafranky last night.

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:: The baby boom continues

By PW
15/06/2010

Congratulations to Karen and Stu Moore on the birth of daughter, Summer, yesterday. All doing well.

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:: BABY GIRL FOR CLAIRE AND PETER SHIELDS

By Jim Patterson
07/06/2010

Congratulations to Claire and Peter Shields on the arrival of a baby daughter this evening at 5.59 pm weighing in at 8lbs. All reported well, even Peter!

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:: President of Ulster Hockey Union

By PW
26/05/2010

Congratulations to club member, Jennifer Patterson, who was elected last night, at the Ulster Hockey Union AGM, as the President of the Ulster Hockey Union. This a great honour for both Jennifer and the club and a fitting acknowledgement of all the hard work that Jennifer has contributed to Ulster hockey. All at the club wish Jennifer all the best in what will be a busy year in office.

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:: Golf Day

By Keith Haslett
12/05/2010

Just a note to confirm that arrangements are in place for our Golf Day on Friday at Mahee Golf Club

Participants should report for registration at the Clubhouse at 12.15 when Tee Times will be allocated. First Tee Off is 12.45.

Dinner and prize distribution will be in the Clubhouse immediately after the Golf

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:: ARRIVAL OF ANOTHER MOCKFORD!

By J Patterson
06/05/2010

Congratulations to Andrea and Colin Mockford on the arrival of a baby boy. More info later.

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:: ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

By J Patterson
04/05/2010

Now 1 week away. 11 May at 7.30 pm at the Cricket Club.

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:: MEN'S SECONDS PROMOTED

By Robin Mitchell
03/05/2010

The UHU have confirmed that the men's seconds will be promoted to Junior One next season. Although they finished 3rd behind Kilkeel 2nds and Banbridge 4ths, Banbridge already have two teams in the top league and are not allowed to have three.

This means that with the 1st XI finishing 7th in the Premier League we now have three teams promoted as well, the 2nds, 3rds and 4ths.

Well done to all involved!

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:: FANTASY HOCKEY LEAGUE WINNER

By Jim Patterson
28/04/2010

The final fantasy hockey league table sees Gareth Bailie as manager of Inter Yerma crowned champion. Defending title holder Laura Clarke was a very poor 11th!

The top 5 managers were:

1 Gareth Bailie Inter Yerma 590 points
2 Sam Pyper Pypers Pros 547 points
3 Andrew Shannon Shannon's Superstars 526 points
3 Jim Patterson ! Riverside Phoenix 526 points
5 Mark Linter Linter Milan 516 points

Gareth will receive his unique specially commissioned trophy at the AGM on 11 May.

Thanks to all who took part, better luck next season!

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:: HARLEQUINS MIXED SUMMER LEAGUE

By J Patterson
25/04/2010

We have received the following email from Harlequins.
"It is hard to believe but summer is nearly here and Belfast Harlequins are getting ready for a new season of our Mixed Hockey League.

Starting on Tuesday 18th May, teams will play one match lasting for two periods of 20 minutes. The league runs from May-July.

Teams play as 7 a-side on a half pitch, however there must be a minimum of three female out field players on the pitch at any time. Fixtures start at 6.45pm, 7.40pm and 8.30pm on a Tuesday evening.

League tables are updated on our website each week and although there are prizes at the end of the season, the aim is to have fun and not take the hockey too seriously.

We are open to entries from all clubs/groups/companies, however team members must be at least 15 years of age.

Last year we had to turn teams away, so please contact us to register an early interest or to get more information."

IF ANYONE IS INTERESTED IN ORGANISING A NORTH DOWN TEAM, CONTACT ME (JIM PATTERSON) AND I'LL SORT OUT THE DETAILS WITH HARLEQUINS.

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:: Coaching Courses

By Peter Whyte
23/04/2010

The Ulster Branch have announced coaching courses to run over the summer period.

Level one courses will be available on 2/9/16 May at Lisnagarvey and 6/13/20 June at Coleraine. The courses will run from 10am - 5pm each day and attendance at each day is compulsory.

A level two course will run on 5/6 June and 12/13 June at Lisnagarvey.

If you are interested in coaching (and the benefits that come with it) it is essential that you have attended at least a level one course. If you are interested please contact myself for more information.

Places on these courses tend to go quickly so please contact me as soon as possible and i can provide more details.

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:: Mens second win double against Annadale

By PW
16/04/2010

On Saturday the mens seconds travelled to Carryduff to take on near neighbours Annadale and recorded a 5-3 win.

North Down started the game at a frenetic pace and dominated the early play creating several half chances that were not taken. However eventually the pressure told when Stephen Magee converted a short corner. It was quickly 2-0 as Magee repeated the dose. North Down where now well on top but complacency began to creep into their play and several good chances were squandered. However Stephen Magee completed his hat-trick in the first half when he beat the keeper in a 1 v 1 situation having been put through by an excellent ball from David Shepherd.

Despite being warned by coach, Peter Whyte to be wary of complacency, North Down started the second half sluggishly and Annadale were able to convert a rebound from a short corner after a good initial save by Alex McRoberts. Annadale tails were up and they quickly scored a second following a goal mouth scramble. This appeared to waken North Down from their slumber and they immediately won a short that was converted by Magee for his fourth of the day. However Annadale did not give up and reduced the deficit to one goal with another scrambled goal. Tension was high for the rest of the game but North Down secured the points when Ricky McMillan finished well from the top of the ‘D’ to leave the final score 5-3.

Not a great performance from North Down who let the sunshine and generally relaxed atmosphere influence their play. Jordan Linter made his debut for the seconds and showed that he is more than capable of playing at this level but the Farmview Dairies man of the match could only go to Stephen Magee with a tally of four goals.

In the return fixture on Wednesday night, played at Lisnagarvey, the seconds had a more comfortable 4-0 win.

As in the first game North Down started well, pushing the Annadale team back but not creating any clear cut chances. Played was breaking down around the Annadale circle with poor decisions from the players attacking the circle and poor runs from the forwards in the circle. The extreme bounce on the pitch was making flowing hockey difficult and Annadale began to make their presence felt and the play was concentrated in the midfield area. North Down eventually made the breakthrough when Jonny Moore scored at the back post. The rest of the half was scrappy with neither side creating any chances of note.

In the second half North Down focussed on improving the movement of their forwards and this was to pay dividends as they scored three goals to win the match comfortably. The half started scrappily and it took 13 minutes for North Down to open a comfortable lead when the ball was switched left to Mark Linter who converted with a powerful strike. North Down were beginning to dominate and following a flowing move Jonny Moore played a great ball through to Michael Black who converted comfortably. The scoring was completed by Jonny Moore who, again, found himself at the back post to convert well.

Farmview Dairies man of the match was Chris Speers who controlled the midfield area.

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:: Poor end to season for 1st xi

By robin mitchell
10/04/2010

Emphatic Victory for Cookstown

North Down travelled to play Cookstown in their final Premier League game of the season on Saturday without four of their regular squad.Cookstown if they win their remaining 2 games would be crowned champions.
Cookstown have been playing competitive fixtures regularily and this was only North Down third in the last six weeks.This showed in the standard of play .Cookstown were much sharper and their fitness level was superior.
Cookstown were three goals up after 20 minutes.Poor defending allowed them in for their first after 3 minutes.The second came seven minutes later when they scored from a rebound. And the third when they slotted home a right wing cross.North down had their best spell in the game and pulled goals back.Firstly Bailie reduced the arrears when he scored with a crisp shot and then ace marksman Caruth scored from their first corner after 25 minutes.With time running out to halftime Cookstown killed the game off with 3 goals in the final 4 minutes of the half.
North Down were not getting the rub of the green and umpires decisions were going against them.Their heads went down as Cookstown grew in confidence and added a further 5 goals to end North Downs season on a damp note.However the plus side is that North Down achieved what they set out to do at the start of the season and that is to maintain their Premiership Status.They finished in seventh position with 16 points.Well done to coaches Paul Johnston and Brian Davis and all the players for this fine effort.

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:: LADIES 5THS IN GIBSON CUP FINAL THIS SATURDAY

By Robin Mitchell
08/04/2010

The ladies 5th XI will play Derg Valley 2nds in the Gibson Cup Final at Lisnagarvey this Saturday with a 1.00 pm hit off. Although 4 of our men's teams have matches, all other members and supporters are encouraged to get along and cheer on our girls!

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:: ANDY FORREST ENGAGED!

By R Mitchell
07/04/2010

Congratulations to Andy Forrest who has just announced to the world that he and Nicole are now engaged. Andy misses this week's final Premier League match against Cookstown as he is recovering from laser eye treatment.
But surely he didn't need the operation to know that Nicole was THE ONE!!!

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:: DEATH OF ANNE HILL

By J Patterson
05/04/2010

We have learnt with sadness of the death in Greece of Anne Hill. Anne was 1st XI goalkeeper at the Club during the 80s and early 90s and played several times for Senior Ulster. She was also selected for the British Olympics training squad for the 1988 Olympics.
Anne was a character at the Club and was always at the front when it came to socialising. She moved to Greece in the mid 90s but came back several times to meet up with old friends.
We send our sympathies to all her family circle in Newtownards and elsewhere.

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:: EASTER FESTIVAL 2010

By A McMaster
03/04/2010

Saturday 03 April 2010
0945-1000 Team check in (Team captains must report to tournament desk)
1015-1730 Matches
1200-1400 Pitch side BBQ
1930-2030 Happy Hour in the Roost
2000-0100 Late night Disco

Sunday 04 April 2010
1030 Time for the "Quality" Hockey
1030-1130 Breakfast BBQ

The cost will be Ł10 per player, this covers your entry fee for the tournament and disco on the Saturday night.

Changing facilities will be available at the Leisure centre on Saturday & Sunday.

Team Captain Team Name

Lynsey Stevenson - Here for Beer
Karen Barker - White Hart loners
Sam Pyper - Our wee country
Barry Julian - Top Bannas
Claire Coey - Vicky's Lambs
Louise Speers - The Goal Diggers
Mark Linter - Blood Sweat & Beers
Lindsay Mercer - Crash Test Dummies
Ricky McMillan - Steaua Booked a rest
Alain Keith - Yer Ma's Athletic
Peter Bond - The Bondfathers
Jennifer Kenedy - 10am Jeagers
Andrew Caldwell - Jamican Mafia
Rebecca Neild - If Carlesburg did hockey teams
Lyndsay Catherwood - Family Planning
Craig McDowell - Enforcers
Sandi Handerson - Haven't Got a clue
Colin Mockford - The Legends
Ashley Tipping - Tip Top Tossers
Christina Hayes - The Ballybeen Queens

Match Schedule will be published shortly.

Any questions give me a shout on my mobile or send me a quick email.

Alan

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:: LADIES CONCEDE 10 AT OMAGH

By ADC
29/03/2010

North Down travelled to Omagh on Saturday in their final match of the season and were well and truly thrashed.

The Comber girls were without 5 of their normal starting 11, giving 2nd XI players Laura Murray, Ashleigh McLaughlin and Lauren Brown the unenviable task of policing the left in an attempt to repeat last week’s 1-0 win over the same opposition.

The Omagh side were bolstered by the return of Irish international Shirley McKay, who has been moonlighting for the club of her schooldays recently during the off season in Belgium where she currently plays professionally. Despite the best attempts of captain Laura Clarke, filling in for the absent Bex Mitchell in the centre, it was clear from the outset that McKay would dominate the game with her textbook passes and on-the-field presence.

North down began with promise; there were some impressive exchanges between Amy Benson and Janice Scott on the left and the defence, with Kathryn Mullin back at sweeper, held well. As soon as the deadlock was broken inside the first ten minutes, however, Omagh came alive, and the second and third goals were slotted home easily by Anne Buchanan and Gemma Frazer, putting the visitors thoroughly on the back foot.

By half time, the North defence had been caught out 7 times thanks to some clean first-time finishes by the Omagh front line. The second half started with an excellent solo run from Amy Benson which stunned the Omagh defence and earned a consolation but the answer was a penalty corner slam by McKay which extinguished any hopes of a fightback. Da Costa made it a bit more of a challenge for the home forwards later into the second half, and there were a few heroic sideline encounters with Mullin and Clarke which for a time seemed to have successfully mitigated a double-figure drubbing.

The return of McKay and the subsequent hammerings of teams at the top end of senior one by a team which was until recently fighting relegation has raised more than a few questions in hockey circles lately. We are playing a team game but the contribution of individuals cannot be discounted. To a lesser extent, the same can be said of North Down who have seen their game plan transform with the addition of Mitchell since Christmas. This time there were performances of note by both Lauren Brown and Eve Grimason despite the scoreline, and the contributions of both schoolgirls must be commended as the team moves into next season with a wealth of young potential.

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:: Ladies fives make cup final

By CW
25/03/2010

Match Date Saturday 20th March 2010
By Claire Whyte
Minor Cup Semi Final
Teams: North Down Fifth Eleven V Malone Second Eleven
Venue: Ards Leisure Centre

Score: North Down V XI 2:1 Malone II XI

The North Down girls entertained high hopes for this match believing they could earn a place in the cup final to be played on 10th April.

Welcoming a strong Malone side to a sunny Ards Leisure Centre on Saturday they played their hearts out, looking dangerous from the outset with Steph Brown & Jo Irwin commanding the right and Lindsay Lappin and Heather Johnston working moves on the left. Chance after chance was created by the North team but they were made to pay for their missed opportunities when Malone put the first goal in on the 30th minute just before the halftime whistle in one of their few forays into the home teams circle.

Not to be disheartened by a very impressive Malone keeper the home team returned to the pitch after the half time break determined to earn the result their first half performance deserved-. With less than five minutes gone in the second half Heather Johnston, one of the five players who have returned to play for the fifths after having babies this season, levelled the score.

Minutes later and it was North again keeping up the pressure to go two goals up when Suzi Johnston and Lindsay Lappin once more penetrated the visitors circle to allow Heather Johnston to slot home her second taking the score to 2:1.

The girls will now face Derg Valley in the final.

The girls would like to thank Krista Blanchflower for umpiring

Team: Ashleigh Gorman, Helen McGaughey, Stephanie Brown, Lindsay Catherwood, Claire Whyte, Jo Irwin, Gillian Neil, Lindsay Lappin, Nikki Osborne, Suzi Johnston, Heather Kinnear, Anna Dunlop

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:: Seconds share points with Kilkeel

By PW
22/03/2010

On Saturday the seconds travelled to Kilkeel knowing they needed to get something from the game and gained a creditable point following an incident packed game of hockey that finished 3-3.

North Down started the game the better with good movement and passing seeing them dominate possession but with little penetration into the Kilkeel circle. Gradually Kilkeel came into the game with their pacy midfielders and forwards causing problems for the North Down defence. Kilkeel took advantage of a North Down error to go one up. They went on to dominate the rest of the half and North Down needed some excellent last gasp defending and goalkeeping to stay in the game. Following another mistake Kilkeel took a deserved two goal lead which they maintained to half time.

North Down came out determined in the second half and created a number of half chances with Kilkeel dangerous on the break. North Down got back into the game when Stephen Magee shot superbly from the right hand side of the circle. North Down were now getting on top of the game and won a series of short corners. Kilkeel legs were beginning to tire due to the majority of their team playing their second match and as North Down cranked up the pressure their discipline to suffer and they were reduced to ten men as a result of a red card for abuse of the umpire. North Down took advantage when, following a goal mouth scramble, Stephen Dalzell equalised. The excitement was not finished yet as Colin Morrison missed a great chance to give North Down the lead, play was transferred to the other end and following a short corner Kilkeel scored a fortunate goal. North Down refused to give up and Colin Morrison made up for his earlier miss when he converted at the back post to make the score 3-3. With eight minutes left it was anybody’s game but although play swung from end to end there were no clear cut chances created.

An exciting game where North Down showed their fighting spirit to rescue what may be a valuable point at the end of the season.

Farmview Dairies man of the match – David Shepherd who had his best game of the season so far and caused continual problems for the Kilkeel defence.

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:: Photos of Mens and Ladies 1sts games

By LC
21/03/2010

There are a few photographs from the mens and ladies 1sts games on Saturday on the Presseye website. Check them out at the link below and type Hockey or North Down into the search box (the tan's are looking great girls).

http://www.presseye.com/

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:: Improved performance against Annadale

By robin mitchell
20/03/2010

North Down entertained Annadale in their final Premier League game of the season and although beaten 1-3 were pleased with the improved performance from the previous game.
Annadale were first to show with Aaron Mills creating a corner which was easily dealt with by the defence.Caruth played a superb overhead which cleared the Annadale defence but Forrest was unable to control the ball.Andy Spratt flashed a reverse shot across the Annadale goal.Annadale then won a series of corners.The first was cleared of the line by McGimpsey and then Coates made a fine save to his left.From their sixth corner in the 28 mionute Hamilton scored with a piledriver which gave Coates no chance.
In the second period North Down began to believe more in themselves and created more from play.Forrest won a corner but Caruths effort was saved.McGimpsey got a yellow card for a rash tackle and Annadale took advantage of the extra man They scored a second goal when Mills weaved his way along the byline and his effort evaded the defenders before entering the net.With both teams at full strengthCaruth scored with a strong reverse shot.Mills was fortunate not to get a yellow card for a tackle on Cooper.A strong run from Watt won North Down a corner and Caruth dispatched with his uncanny power into the net.Forrest had a chance to reduce the arrears further when Linter burst through a number of tackles and gave him the perfect pass but he was unable to get round the keeper.

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:: Mens Training to end of Season

By robin mitchell
19/03/2010

Wednesday24 March ComberLC 8.30.-10.00
Monday 29 March Lisnagarvey 7.30.-9.00
Wednesday 31 March Comber LC 8.30-10 00
Wednesday 7 April LISNAGARVEY 8.30-10.00

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:: North Down outplayed at Bann

By robin mitchell
16/03/2010

North Down travelled to Banbridge on Tuesday to play a re-arranged Premier League fixtureBann dominated the game from start to finish and deservetely won by 8-1.
Bann played at a quick tempo and were quicker than North Down to the ball in all areas of the pitch possibly due to the fact that.North Down had been without a competitive game for three weeks
Bann opened the scoring in the opening minutes when McCandless was allowed to run unchallenged into the circle before unleashing a reverse shot past a bemused Coates.Shortly afterwards they were awarded a short corner and Scott McCandless scored..Shortly North Down had their best chance of the game.Forrest played a quick ball into the circle.Linter collected the pass but was unable to beat Lennox in goal..Bann went three up when North Down lost possession in midfield and the ball was quickly transferred to the left winger whose cross somehow was deflected home at the near post.Scott McCandless scored the fourth after a series of corners.The same player completed his hattrick just before halftime again from a short corner.
Bann got their sixth straight from the hit off.The right winger was allowed to waltz the ball along the byline before slotting past Coates.Speers had a rare chance for North Down but he had a fresh air shot at the top of the circle.Bann quickly added two further goals one from a corner and the other open play.For the remaining twenty minutes North Down showed a bit of spirit denying Bann any further chances and creating a couple of their own.On two occasions the ball broke to Johnny Moore at the top of the circle but Lennox saved the first attempt and from the second he was unable to get a shot away.Just on the final whistle North Down were awarded a short corner and Scott Caruth flicked past Lennox.
A much improved performance will be required on Saturday at home to Annadale

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:: Seconds exit McClements Cup

By PW
15/03/2010

On Saturday the seconds travelled to Banbridge in the semi-final of the McClements Cup and although they were beaten they gave a good account of themselves against an excellent Banbridge side.

North Down, as they often do, started the game poorly and where punished clinically as Banbridge found themselves 2-0 up after six minutes. However North Down showed their fighting spirit and rallied and got back into the game after fifteen minutes when Jonny Moore finished a good team move with a smart finish. North Downs defence were being made to work hard by excellent running from the Banbridge forwards but they stuck to their task well. While some good hockey was played by both sides they both struggled to create clear cut chances and the score remained 2-1 at half time.

Banbridge started well in the second half and scored a good goal to make it 3-1. However back came North Down again and Jonny Moore got his second of the day following a scramble in the circle. At this stage keeper McRoberts made several excellent saves from Banbridge short corners, clearing the ball outside the circle. However on one of the shorts the ball was quickly put back into the circle and Banbridge opened a two goal lead again. But, continuing the pattern of the rest of the game, North Down went straight up the pitch and showed they have a good short corner routine when Mark Linter converted to make it 4-3. Play opened up after this with both teams attacking but chances created were minimal. However with five minutes left Banbridge opened a two goal cushion again with a good finish from the top of the circle and they were able to see the game out.

This was a good game of hockey through which North Down will have gained some valuable lessons. The seconds did show that they are capable of scoring against any side but will have learnt that if you make a mistake against good opposition they will punish you. Good luck to Banbridge in the final.

Farmview Dairies man of the match – Chris Speers

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:: BURNEY CUP FINAL

By Peter Whyte
15/03/2010

Best wishes to Darren Rodgers and Jordan Linter who will be in Campbell College's squad for the Burney Cup Final tomorrow at Lisnagarvey at 2.00 pm against Banbridge Academy.

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:: NO WEDNESDAY TRAINING THIS WEEK

By Robin Mitchell
15/03/2010

As Comber Leisure Centre will be closed for St. Patrick's Day there will be no Club training this week.

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:: International Honours

By adc
12/03/2010

Well done to Chloe Brown who has been selected for the Irish under 16 squad. She will travel to Holland to compete in a series of international fixtures this summer.

Congratulations Chloe from all at the club.

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:: **NO LADIES TRAINING TONIGHT**

By adc
10/03/2010

The ladies 1sts take on bottom of the table Ballyclare tonight in Comber at 7.15. This is a must win game if the ladies want to stay in Senior 1.

Therefore there will be no training for the ladies club this evening. All support would be greatly appreciated.

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:: FANTASY HOCKEY CUP FINAL RESULT

By The Administrator
10/03/2010

Inter Yerma (Gareth Bailie) defeated Pypers Pros (Sam Pyper) in the fantasy hockey cup final last Saturday by 73 points to 63 points. The impressive cup will be presented to Gareth at the Dinner Dance on 20 March. Sam gets nothing!

Meanwhile the top 5 in the league table is as follows:

1 Gareth Bailie 536 pts
2 Sam Pyper 494 pts
3 Mark Linter 453 pts
4 Ryan Galway 444 pts
5 Andrew Shannon 440 pts

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:: HOCKEY WORLD CUP SEMI FINAL LIVE ON TV

By Jim Patterson
10/03/2010

The England V Germany Hockey World Cup semi final is live on Sky TV channel 789 (Zing TV) tomorrow at 12.30 pm. The winners will play either Australia or the Netherlands in the final on Saturday.

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:: Seconds see off Newry

By PW
08/03/2010

On Saturday the mens seconds took on Newry at Nendrum College and had a comfortable 5-1 win.

The game started off evenly with niether team creating any clear cut chances. North Down gradually began to assert control and went ahead when Andy Spratt drag flicked a short corner into the corner to leave the keeper helpless. North Down began to play a more attractive brand of pressing hockey that penned the Newry team into their own half. The pressure finally told when Gareth Bailie, returning from injury, converted from open play. The scoring in the first half was completed when Andy Spratt calmly converted a one-on-one chance with the keeper

Having spent halftime discussing the need to up the pace of the game the seconds came out for the second half at full pace. They dominated the game from the start, creating several chances but failed to convert. Eventaully though the breakthrough occurred with Ricky McMillan finishing powerfully following good teamwork. Shortly afterrwards McMillan got his second to make the score five. At this stage North Down took their foot of the gas and allowed Newry back into the game and they scored a consolation goal with five minutes left.

A more solid performance this week from the seconds with a good shape maintained throuhgout the game.

Farmview Dairies man of the match - Colin Morrison
GHD "metrosexual" of the match - Jonny Moore

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:: MEN'S THIRDS PROMOTED

By Sam Pyper
08/03/2010

The thirds made the short trip last Saturday to Ballynahinch to play their seconds on the difficult shale surface at Langley Road. With two league games remaining, a win was required from the visitors to guarantee promotion to Junior League Three next season and they weren’t expecting an easy task.
North Down started the brighter and controlled the first half with a strong defensive display and created numerous chances up front. Crosses were not converted on the bouncy pitch and Forest and Pyper were denied by some good goal keeping and defensive blocks. Just on the stroke of half time a short corner switch to Forest led to a goal mouth scramble and Shannon was at hand to finish. At half time the visitors knew that 1-0, particularly on this surface, was a dangerous scoreline.
The thirds started the second half well and again created chances and Ballynahinch were limited to a few short corners that came to nothing. Frustration grew amongst the hosts and confrontation was inevitable. A personal off the ball battle between Gibson and the Hinch striker was soon knocked on the head with firm umpiring from Richard Willis. North Down soon eased any worries when Keith crossed well for Shannon to deflect past the keeper and get his second of the game. The thirds then saw out the remainder of the game to secure their promotion. With one game to go against Instonians 4ths the league may yet not be decided until all rearranged fixtures have been completed, however the thirds are in a great position to claim top spot. Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Andrew Shannon

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:: EASTER TOURNAMENT

By Alan McMaster
04/03/2010

It's just over 4 weeks to the Tournament and I need confirmation of entries now so that I can draw up a match schedule and programme. If you want to enter a team or want to play and haven't linked up to a team yet contact me asap at 0798 9527307 or by email to alan@ardsshoppingcentre.com.

I'm also looking for volunteers to umpire or to help with the BBQs or to help generally or even all three. Your help is needed!
Alan

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:: LIVE COVERAGE OF THE HOCKEY WORLD CUP

By R Mitchell
04/03/2010

You can follow live TV coverage of the Hockey World Cup direct from Pakistan on Zing (yes) TV on Sky Channel 789. Matches have been shown mid to late morning and afternoons.

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:: MENS THIRDS EDGE CLOSER TO PROMOTION

By Sam Pyper
01/03/2010

With 3 games remaining the thirds knew that a win last Saturday against Cliftonville 2nds would go a long way to securing a promotion place. North Down started the brighter and played some good flowing hockey and went ahead when a good move originating from Beaney fell to Forest who deflected Shannon’s pass past the visiting keeper. Both sides had chances in the remainder of the half but the thirds stood strong marshalled by Gibson who was consistent throughout. At the other end Cliftonville defenders opted for the physical approach and seemed to get away with rash off the ball challenges at every given opportunity. At half time the thirds led 1-0.
North Down started the second half confidently and were solid in defence and midfield keeping the visitors at bay. Young Stephen Forest shone with the Cliftonville keeper saving well on 2 occasions and it wasn’t long before he made his mark with his second of the game, finishing well from close range. The thirds appeared to be well in control and continued to press forward but perhaps should have protected their lead better. Cliftonville hit on the break and Mockford was left alone at the back, with Rodgers beaten Mockford gave away a stroke with a mistimed tackle and the Cliftonville sweeper finished well giving Rodgers no chance. The thirds determined to get back in control piled the pressure on and Mark Linter finished from a cross to gain the momentum back. However they hadn’t learnt from their earlier lesson and were once again left short at the back and conceded another stroke, the ball striking Gibson on the line. Again the experienced sweeper finished well to make it 3 - 2. North Down responded immediately as Revill played an inch perfect ball through to Keith who rounded the keeper and slotted home to make it 4-2. Forest should have made his hatrick towards the end but his deflection was just wide however his all round performance was enough to get him the Farmview Dairies Man of the Match Award.
With 2 games remaining, the thirds need only 1 more point to ensure promotion but will be looking for a maximum to keep the pressure on rivals Armagh 2nds who still have 6 to play and could potentially tie at the top.

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:: Mens seconds make McClements Cup Semi's

By PW
01/03/2010

On Saturday the mens seconds defeated Banbridge fourths to make it to the McClements cup semi-finals.

North Down started the match at a very slow pace which suited the Banbridge side who played some good possession hockey and pressed North Down back. Keeper Alex McRoberts had to be on his toes on several occasions to keep Banbridge at bay. However eventually the breakthrough was made and Banbridge took a deserved lead which they held. North Down got back into the game when Scott Caruth equalised with a well taken drag flick. However North Down were still playing poorly and Banbridge mad them pay when they regained the lead just before halftime.

With the halftime team talk focusing on the need to up the pace and the work rate North Down came out a different side in the second half. Playing with a much higher tempo they began to pressure the Banbridge defence. Stephen Dalzell was prominent in this stage of the game as his energy began to see him dominate his opposite number. However the difference in the game was to be Scott Caruth who stepped up to convert three short corners to end the game as a contest as North Down progressed with a 4-2 triumph.

Despite the goal scoring exploits of Caruth and the excellent defence of Mark Linter the Farmview Dairies man of the match went to Alex McRoberts.

The seconds have been handed a tough draw as they will play Banbridge 2's in their semi.

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:: U14 girls training canceled

By PW
26/02/2010

Due to a flooded pitch the girls training tonight has been canceled. Sorry for any inconvenience.

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:: Ladies 1sts frustrated in bottom half encounter

By ADC
25/02/2010

North Down travelled to struggling Kilkeel on Tuesday night to play out a hard fought 2-2 draw in appalling conditions.

The Comber girls had been buoyed by their win against the same opposition on Saturday past and started well with some impressive attacking play from Amy Benson and Bex Mitchell.

However Kilkeel had clearly gathered themselves after a lacklustre display at Enler, and pressed the defence well, closing down the options of captain Laura Clarke at the back. The home side were still intent on breaking down their opponents’ short-passing game and somehow avoided seeing yellow for some questionable tackles.

North Down’s continued effort was rewarded when the in-form Eve Grimason’s solo display rattled the backboard. Their defence soon loosened, however, and Kilkeel drew level shortly before half time when a cross from the right was fired home from the far post.

The weather worsened as the second half unfolded, and North Down were unable to move the ball with any purpose. Less deterred by the conditions, the home side were clearly favoured in the physical battle and managed to frustrate the visitors with a string of penalty corners. Blinkered in the circle, Kilkeel’s efforts allowed them to take the lead with a third-time lucky rebound.

North Down showed good fight in the final 10 minutes, and a determined Hannah McKee fired home the equaliser after a goalmouth scuffle.

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:: LATEST FANTASY HOCKEY NEWS

By The Administrator
25/02/2010

This weekend sees the semi finals of the fantasy hockey cup.
Gareth Bailie V Andrew McKibben
Sam Pyper V Ryan Donaldson.

The final will be on 6 March.

Meanwhile the top 5 positions in the latest league table are:
1 Gareth Bailie 416 points
2 Sam Pyper 392 points
3 Mark Linter 355 points
4 Jim Patterson 355 points
5 Andrew Shannon 354 points

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:: MEN'S THIRDSMAKE HEAVY WEATHER OF IT V RAPHOE 4THS

By Sam Pyper
23/02/2010

The thirds entertained Raphoe 4ths at Nendrum College on Saturday hoping to keep top spot. Their rivals, hoping to stay in Junior 4 turned up late, looked disorganised and started briefly with 10 players. However, even with North Down controlling the opening 10 minutes, the visitors took a shock lead with a well worked manoeuvre and some miscommunication in the home defense. The thirds continued to press with McKee and Linter controlling the midfield but a combination of saves, clearances and wasted opportunities from attack lead to nothing. Pyper should have equalised after Revill squared in front of goal but couldn’t get a connection towards goal. Raphoe defended well and went into the break one up.
The thirds came out determined and started to play some better hockey and Stephen Forrest, who improves every week, finished well from a rebound to equalise and give the hosts the boost they needed. North Down were on the up and as confidence grew, created more and more. A well worked short corner left Linter with a free slap on goal, but his effort was high and the goal was disallowed. With 15 minutes to go Linter picked out Revill with a defense splitting pass and Shannon cheekily deflected the cross past the stranded Raphoe keeper. The home defense of Gibson, Keith, Nicholson and McKee were determined to protect the lead and stood strong for the remainder of the game. Pressure was relieved when another short corner switch left Jordan McKee to well place his strike to make it 3 – 1 although, to McKee’s consternation, the home spectators insisted Revill got the final touch.
Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Mark Linter

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:: GREAT WIN FOR MEN'S FIRST ELEVEN

By R Mitchell
23/02/2010

North Down got revenge over their Co. Down rivals Kilkeel when they defeated them 5-2 at Comber last Saturday. Although not playing as well as in previous weeks they had 2 star performers who were the difference on the day. Kilkeel did have the majority of the play but North Down won the battle in both circles. Coates in goal was outstanding and Man of the Match Scott Caruth sensationally scored all 5 goals, a best ever goal scoring feat for North Down in the top flight in 114 years!

Having been unlucky not to get a result earlier in the season at Kilkeel, North Down may have thought that a repeat performance was on the cards when they went behind after 5 minutes from a short corner, however they were soon back on level terms. Andy Forrest made a great run into the Kilkeel circle leaving many defenders in his wake before being upended. To everyone’s amazement the umpire awarded a corner instead of a penalty but Caruth stepped up and saw justice done when he smashed the ball into the roof of the net. North Down were now in the driving seat and saw another corner saved before Caruth put them ahead in the 15th minute when he again smashed a corner into the roof of the net. In the best move of the match Cooper saw his effort saved at the expense of a corner which was saved. The large home support did not have to wait long before their lead was extended when Caruth attacked the circle and was awarded a corner which he again expertly scored to make the score 3 - 1.

At this stage North Down sat back seemingly content to defend which allowed Kilkeel to take the initiative and Coates had to make a series of fine saves to keep his side in front. Just before half time Cooper took a quick free finding Forrest but his effort went over the bar.

At the start of the second period McGimpsey gave the ball away and Coates had to be alert to clear the danger and after 15 minutes Kilkeel reduced the arrears when they converted a corner. The visitors now pressed for an equaliser but Coates and his defense were up for the challenge and kept them out. After 58 minutes North Down increased their lead when Caruth got his fourth again from a corner. Kilkeel were temporarily reduced to 10 men when Niblock was sin binned but North Down were unable to make use of this advantage. Frazer made a fine tackle to keep the eager Kilkeel forwards out and then it was North Down’s turn to play with 10 when Graeme Morrison received a yellow card for a stick tackle. Kilkeel attacked in numbers as they strived to reduce the arrears but Coates in goals was supreme as he made a number of saves from corners and open play. Kilkeel had a great chance from a switch at a short corner but with the goal gaping Annett failed to get a touch.
North Down made them pay for this miss. Caruth played a superb overhead pass which cleared the Kilkeel defense for Andy Forrest to run onto the ball and round the keeper but his effort came off the post, however his persistence paid off as he won the ball back and crossed for Caruth to get his fifth and make the final score 5 – 2.

A fine result for North Down which keeps them in seventh place in the Premier League. All of the hard work being put in at training is beginning to pay off and Caruth with his ability to convert corners is becoming a real threat to all teams in the league.

Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Scott Caruth

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:: MEN'S FOURTHS AND FIFTHS REPORTS

By J Patterson
22/02/2010

FOURTHS
The fourths entertained Raphoe 5ths at Nendrum College on Saturday and ran out seemingly easy winners by 9 – 2. They have now scored an impressive 24 goals in the last three games however the scoreline does not tell the true story. The use of synthetic pitches has dramatically changed the game of hockey to a more free scoring type of game. In the first half of this game both teams had the same number of chances, eight or nine. North Down scored on virtually every visit to the circle whilst Raphoe squandered theirs only registering twice on the score sheet. The half time score was an incredible 7 – 2 in quite an even match with Peter Shields scoring a hatrick assisted by goals from Alan McMaster, Martin Moreland, Peter Wilson and Paul McCaughey.
The second half was more one sided in favour of the home team but conversely only two more goals were added. Jamie Kitchen scored from close in on 43 minutes and Peter Shields notched his fourth on 58 minutes. With seconds remaining the diminutive Jordan Linter stood his ground in a tackle against his much stronger opponent and both were felled sustaining blows to the face but luckily no serious damage was done.

FIFTHS
With so many home games on the schedule last Saturday the fifth eleven were obliged to play their game with Bangor 5ths on the poor shale surface at Park Way. Although the same for both sides, the stronger Bangor players made better use of the surface and ran out winners by 4 – 2. North Down’s goals were both scored by the irrepressible Peter Bond.

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:: Ladies 1sts secure vital league win

By ADC
22/02/2010

North Down 1st XI entertained Senior 1 debutantes Kilkeel on Saturday, notching up a vital 2-0 win.

The game started slowly with North Down failing to make early passes and release the pressure in defence. The home side were lucky not to concede a few early goals as Kilkeel saw several attempts shot wide or saved. Kilkeel were successful in breaking down the play in midfield, resulting in few chances for North Down throughout the first half.

Kilkeel began the second half on the attack, but their efforts were again in vain and they soon tired, resulting in a string of bad tackles increased frustration. North Down finally began to move the ball out from the back; Louise Speers carrying the ball with speed and aggression. Player of the match Bex Mitchell displayed some of the sprinting prowess of her school days which put repeated pressure on the cracking Kilkeel defence and when she latched on to Amy Benson’s cross the deadlock was finally broken.

A revitalised North Down finally began to create opportunities in the circle, and several attempts at goal from both open play and corners were impressively dealt with by the Kilkeel keeper. Playing out of position on the front line, Kathryn Mullin doubled the score line when she lifted a rebounded ball over the keeper.

North Down continued to avert the occasional attack with captain Laura Clarke putting in several precise tackles and giving Da Costa little to do in the second half but twiddle her thumbs.

The girls now face a difficult trip to Kilkeel for the return fixture this Tuesday night which will surely see the home side come out fighting as they struggle to stay in Senior 1. North Down are far from safe, and will need to up their game if they are to repeat Saturday’s result.

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:: Seconds unbeaten run continues

By PW
22/02/2010

On Friday night the seconds travelled to Antrim Forum to play Antrim in what was anticipated to be a close encounter and were delighted to come away with the victory following a closely fought game.

North Down started the game the better of the two sides with their quick passing and movement proving too much for the Antrim side. Whilst possession and territory were dominated there were very few clear cut chances created and after twenty minutes Antrim took the lead against the run of play. This goal seemed to knock the confidence of the seconds and the remainder of the half was a scrappy affair with neither side playing good hockey.

The second half started with Antrim determined to take a more physical approach to the game and this paid off as they pushed North Down back. Keeper Alex McRoberts had to be on his toes on a couple of occasions, but the North Down defence held firm. Against the run of play North Down equalised with Jonny Moore converting a rebound after Andrew Spratt had hit the post. North Down were struggling to play their normal passing game at this stage but their pace began causing the tiring Antrim defence problems. Half way through the half Jonny Moore, Ricky McMillan and Scotty Moore combined to score an excellent goal with Scotty Moore converting. They repeated the dose shortly afterwards with another excellent passing move creating the opportunity for Stephen Dalzell who took the chance calmly to move into double figures for goals scored. Antrim were now desperate to get back into the game and with five minutes left made it 3-2. However North Down held on comfortably for the win.

An interesting game with North Down not at their best but they showed how they have matured as a team and were able to stand up to the physical style adopted by Antrim.

Farmview Man of the Match – Colin Mockford

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:: Minis cancelled

By P Whyte
21/02/2010

Unfortunately, due to the weather and inside being booked up, the minis will have to be canceled today. Sorry for any inconvenience and hope to see you all next week.

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:: JIM BOYD ON LIFE IN CANADA

By Jim Boyd
20/02/2010

Hi

It's hard to believe that it's nearly a year up already and it has been an eventful one . We have just started to apply for permanent residency and are just about to buy our first Canadian house . This move won't be just as far cos it's only 3 doors away and it has plenty of space for all our visitors . We've had loads over and this summer is looking busy too . My dad came over last summer and went out with some real cowboys (a friend of his moved here 18 years ago who put us up for a few weeks) and was the biggest redneck there . Big white cowboy hat and cowboy boots singing country songs . I was so proud .

The jobs are going well and the boys are throwing themselves into the Canadian way of life . Jamie is snowboarding , skating , playing ice hockey , basketball , football . Nick is skiing and playing football . They are both doing really well at school and I don't think they would be too happy about going back , but I don't think that will happen .

It has been a busy year but we have made some really good friends here and we even met families from Ards and Ballymena . The Canadians are good fun but don't really get the humour . I told a guy in work to kiss my ass and he thought it was an offer .

The highlights would have to be the Stampede , camping in a tepee in the mountains, getting to a Flames game and the boys in the snow .

It is all going pretty much as we expected . The emotional side is tough but this really is a fabulous place and we can even cheer on people in the Olympics with a chance of winning something .
We are hopefully going to rent a huge RV in the summer and head over to BC and see a bit more of the West and maybe head down to the States .
When we get the new house it should start to feel even more like home .

Anyway , we're heading out to the lake to go skating .

Hope all is well with you guys and will see you on our first trip back in 2011 .

The Boyds

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:: Narrow defeat for1st xi

By robin mitchell
17/02/2010

Banbridge were the visitors to Comber leisure centre on Saturday for a Premier League game.The large crowd was entertained to an excellent game of hockey with Banbridge winning by 3-1
In the first period it was Banbridge who enjoyed the majority of the possession and controlled the game for long periods.However North Down defended stoutly and restricted Bann to few scoring chances.A good run from Magowan won Banns first corner and it took a superb stick stop from McGimpsey to deny them the lead.After 15 minutes Bann took the lead.Their superb corner routine worked to perfection and McCandless beat Coates.Four minutes later Bann were two up .Poor marking in the circle saw a cross go to an unmarked player at the far post and he squared for a simple tap in.North Down dug in after this and just before halftime won their first corner but unfortunately the application was not to the standard of their opponents and the chance was wasted.
North Down came out a different team in the second half.They attacked for long periods creating a number of chances.Firstly Willis and Caruth combined but Caruths effort was smothered.Then it was the turn of Mark Forrest who had two reverse shots saved.North Down pulled a goal back after 15 minutes when Watt pounced to smash the ball past Lennox.With North Down pressing for the equaliser Bann broke quickly down the right and McGimpsey made a clumsy tackle which gained him a yellow card a nd Bann a corner.Coates made a fine save from McCandless first effort but when the ball came of a defender he made no mistake from his second attempt.Mc Candless then blazed another corner over the bar before North Down made a final attempt to get something from the game.Caruth played Willis through but he was unable to get any power on his shot at goal.Caruth won a corner but saw Lennox deflect his effort over.Lennox was fortunate minutes later when Forrest played an overhead and the cross which followed got stuck in his feet but noone was on hand to slot home.
Coaches Johnston and Davis will be looking for a similar level of performance when they play Kilkeel next Saturday.

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:: Ladies firsts advance to plate semi

By ADC
16/02/2010

North Down ladies 1st XI hosted their Senior 1 counterparts Ballymena in the quarter finals of the Ulster Senior Plate on Saturday at Comber Leisure Centre, running out 3-1 winners.

The home side started strongly with a series of passing sequences around the back, setting up Amy Benson for some great attacking hockey down the right. Some well-timed tackles by the Ballymena midfield put paid to her advances but the Comber girls persevered and were eventually able to create chances up front, one resulting in a well placed touch from Eve Grimason to leave the score 1-0 at half time.

Playing against the same side which had beaten them convincingly 4-1 only 2 weeks earlier, North Down appeared to be wise to their opponents’ tactics with centre midfielder Bex Mitchell all but eliminating the main playmaker and the back four ensuring that the circle was not penetrated for most of the game. The game began to flow better further into the second half with Grimason notching up her second from open play.

Ballymena’s sustained pressure in midfield paid off when they won their first corner of the match in the last 15 minutes of the game, and the resulting mis-hit was put home on the right post. Fighting hard for the counter attack on the left, player of the match Selina Lewis created chances for Chloe Brown who made light work of the Ballymena defence, setting up Zara Millar for her first senior goal this season in what was a convincing performance from all the young forwards.

Ballymena won a series of short corners right to the whistle which tested the home defence, however the final attempt was saved before being safely guided out by Fiona Ellis.

North Down will take heart from this much-needed, much-improved team performance as they go into a week with three league games which they will need to win to secure their place in Senior 1. The girls were to be rewarded for their efforts with a home draw to Premier league leaders Armagh on 13th March, however it has today been proposed that all Ulster ladies plate competitions are abandoned in an effort to clear the backlog of senior league games. Several games were postponed early this season due to lack of umpires before the weather took its toll. While such a move, if agreed, will concentrate minds on the league, North Down will feel somewhat dejected at the prospect of missing out on a rare opportunity to compete in a senior semi final.

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:: FANTASY HOCKEY CUP & LEAGUE

By J Patterson
16/02/2010

Holders Abbey Albion, aka Laura Clarke, have been eliminated from the Fantasy Hockey Cup. The draw for the quarter finals this Saturday is:
Andrew McKibben V Jim Patterson
Ryan Donaldson V Gavin Wilson
Gareth Bailie V Peter Whyte
Sam Pyper V Andrew Shannon

The latest league table is
1 Inter Yerma - Gareth Bailie 348 points
2 Pypers pros - Sam Pyper 315 points
3 Linter Milan - Mark Linter 295 points
4 Shannon's Superstars - Andrew Shannon 294 points
5 Riverside Phoenix - Jim Patterson 281 points

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:: Seconds progress in McClements Cup

By PW
15/02/2010

On Saturday the men’s seconds progressed to the second round of the McClements Cup with a 3-1 victory against Cookstown.

North Down anticipated a tough game as they went to Cookstown missing five regular players and with no umpire and so it proved with Cookstown dominating the early exchanges as North Down settled into the game. Cookstown took a deserved lead half way through the half and North Down where hanging on at this stage. However they gradually began to get into the game and Colin Morrison equalised on the stroke of halftime when he met the ball superbly at the top of the circle and smashed the ball into the corner of the Cookstown goal.

The second half started as the first with Cookstown dominating territory but the defensive effort of the whole North Down side, marshalled superbly by keeper Alex McRoberts, ensured that few chances were created and McRoberts dealt well with any that where. North Down looked dangerous on the break and it was Stephen Dalzell who gave North Down the lead when he lobbed the ball into the back of the net. With time running out North Down further extended their lead when Stephen Magee outfoxed the Cookstown keeper to score from a short corner.

An excellent team performance that left captain Mark Linter and the entire team delighted. Special mention to those players drafted in from the thirds who have given coach, Peter Whyte, a selection headache for next week. Despite the captains attempt to give the man of the match award to the entire team the Farmview Dairies man of the match went to Stephen Magee.

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:: IAN MCKEOWN ON LIFE IN AUSTRALIA

By Ian McKeown
11/02/2010

Hi there everybody. This is Ian McKeown reporting from Canberra in Australia just to let you all know what I’ve been getting up to since moving here last year.

I’ve settled in well in Canberra and am working away on my PhD roughly covering Power Development during Growth and Maturation of Elite Athletes. As part of this course I am working as a Strength and Conditioning coach with the Australian Institute of Sport.

I also work in the ACT Academy of Sport as a Strength and Conditioning coach located at the National Hockey Centre which is a superb set up. The gym is based under one of the stands and there are three water based hockey pitches with an indoor hockey hall.

I have been working with both the Men’s and Women’s ACT squads which are a good standard but I don’t know about club levels yet as the season doesn’t start here until April. Also, because of the unsociable hours, I haven’t been able to play any hockey myself either.

I spent Christmas and the New Year on the coast in Brisbane and even got to hug a koala and now I’m looking forward to my parents coming over in three weeks time and Katie coming in April. I’ve been able to watch the Ulster rugby games on ESPN Australia, although I haven’t yet spotted the any of the crowd from McBrides, and the 6 Nations is on now so Happy Days!

I’ve heard that Gareth is back with you at the moment so make sure he behaves himself. Good luck against Banbridge on Saturday and all the best for the rest of the season.
Mackers

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:: Seconds defeat Mossley

By PW
08/02/2010

On Saturday the men’s seconds entertained Mossley at Comber Leisure Centre and produced a solid performance to take all three points.

North Down where determined to start well against a Mossley side who were above them in the league and immediately began pressurising the visitors who relied on a more direct approach. North Down where guilty at this stage of flooding the opposition circle, and with Mossley playing a defensive game, there was little space in the circle and although on top North Down struggled to create chances. As the half wore on North Down began to play some good hockey and chances soon began to be created but the excellent Mossley keeper made several fine saves. However the pressure finally told when Gareth Bailie converted after an excellent build up and cross from Andy Spratt. The score remained 1-0 to half time.

Mossley started the second half with a more physical approach but North Down remained calm, happy to let their hockey do the talking, as they started the second half well. As Mossley were forced to try and attack to salvage something from the game so space was created for North Down who looked dangerous every time they went forward. With ten minutes gone North Down made it 2-0 when Stephen Magee converted a short corner. The points were wrapped up shortly after when Ricky McMillan converted from the top of the circle to make it 3-0.

A solid performance from the seconds which will give them confidence ahead off their McClements Cup game next week. Man of the Match went to Mark Linter who dominated the Mossley attack in a powerful display.

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:: Close encounter against Garvey

By robin mitchell
08/02/2010

North Down entertained Garvey in a league game at the leisure centre on Saturday.Coach Johnston was looking for an improved performance from the previous game against Mossley and although defeated 4-2 he got the response he wanted from his players as they pushed their more experienced opponents all the way.
The first half was a very even affair with both defences having to work hard in the early stages.After 20 minutes Cooper won the ball in midfield and played a delicate pass to Watt.He shrugged off two defenders before unleashing an unstoppable shot into the corner of the net.North Down were unable to retain the lead as Garvey almost immediately were back on level terms.when Danials nipped in at the far post to score after Coates had made a fine save from a short corner.North Down defended stoutly until halftime restricting Garvey to few scoring opportunities while at the other endWatt was causing all sorts of problems.
North Down got the worst possible start to the second half.Straight from the hit of Garvey attacked down the right and a cross was met first time by Thompson and he shot past a bemused Coates on the reverse.At the other end Magee had a stong run into the circle but no one was on hand to slot home his cross.After 6 minutes Garvey won a corner .The ball was switched to Arbuthnot and he flicked home.Ten minutes later Coates made a double but the ball fell to Robinson who gratefully accepted the chance.To their credit North Down fought back and it was Garveys turn to defend.First Bailie shot wide and then noone was able to get a touch to Spratts cross in front of goal.With 5 minutes remaining Forrest won a corner which he flicked high into the corner of the net.In the remaining minutes both sides created chances.Firstly Cockram had a shot saved and then Forrest shot over the bar.
A much improved performance and something to build on for the remainder of the season.

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:: Easy for fourths

By
08/02/2010

The fourths entertained PSNI seconds at Nendrum College last Saturday and repeated their earlier in the season drubbing of the police team. In the away fixture in October the 4ths hit most of their five goals in the first ten minutes, this time round four goals came in a devastating last ten minutes as the 4ths came away with a comfortable 6 – 0 scoreline.
Alan McMaster and Peter Shields put the fourths into a secure position with first half goals but for all of their possession were unable to add to their lead. Numerous chances were missed in front of goals but it was only a matter of time before the visitors’ defence conceded a third and decisive goal. Once this happened ten minutes from time the floodgates opened and the North Down team, riding high in the league, rattled in three more in quick succession. Scorers in the final 10 minutes were McMaster again, Stephen Forrest with two and Martin Moreland.
Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Stephen Forrest

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:: top of table clash ends in draw

By sam pyper
08/02/2010

It was a top of the table clash for the thirds last Saturday in Armagh on the shale and with the thirds 3 points clear and Armagh seconds with a game in hand, on paper it was all square.
North Down started off well with most of the possession however were too direct attempting to crash the ball into the danger area from anywhere around the half way mark. Armagh responded with good flowing hockey delivering that final ball higher up the pitch. It paid off and they converted their first short corner of the game after 15 minutes. A second was soon to follow and the thirds looked to have no response. At half time they changed their game plan opting to ignore the surface and play some good passing hockey. It soon paid off following a great run from Nicholson who picked out Pyper in the area. The Armagh keeper was quick to come off his line and slid straight through, upending Pyper in a heap. A stroke was awarded and the hosts were furious! Mockford stepped up confidently but missed.
The thirds persisted with good attacking play and pressurised the Armagh defence for a solid 10 minutes. A slip to Calvin from a short corner looked like North Down were back in the game however the last defender on the line stuck out a foot to deflect and another stroke was awarded. He was lucky to stay on the pitch. Mockford stepped up again and finished well only for it to be retaken for striking before the whistle. Mockford remained calm and switched direction to make it 2-1. The thirds continued to dominate and soon equalised when Pyper struck first time through a crowded circle. The visitors were on the up and maybe could have gone ahead but for the Armagh keeper. The hosts hit back on the counter but the North Down defence stood strong marshalled by the ever dependable Gibson who had a solid consistent game.
The game ended with a share of the points and no change at the top which lets Banbridge 5ths back into the hunt for a promotion place. It’s going to be tight!
Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Paul Beaney

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:: PREMIER LEAGUE ACTION RETURNS

By J Patterson
04/02/2010

Lisnagarvey are the visitors this Saturday at Comber Leisure Centre as the men's first eleven play their first home fixture of 2010. They will be without Scott Caruth and Chris Speers who are both unavailable.

Hit off is at 2.30 pm.

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:: U13'S defeat Civil Service

By PW
01/02/2010

Last Sunday the U13 boys travelled to Civil Service for a friendly and came away with a 3-1 triumph.

The game was played in a good spirit with both sides playing good hockey. Playing three twenty minute perios the score was 0-0 after the first period although North Down had most of the territory. In the second period North Down began to dominate and scored three goals courtesy of Matthew Watson, Josh Gilmore (set up by a self proclaimed "wonderball" from Jonny Linter) and Rowan Potts. However it took an excellent save from keeper Roger Mottram at 1-0 to stop Service levelling the game. In the last period Service scored a well deserved consolation goal.

Key performers for North Down in this game were Adam McAllister, Jonny Linter and Peter McKibben who controlled the midfield area superbly. Coaches Ritchie and Conway were delighted with the performance level of the boys as they continue to improve with every game.

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:: YOUTH TRAINING CANCELLED TONIGHT

By Peter Whyte
01/02/2010

As the astro pitch at Comber Leisure Centre is still frozen, tonight's Boys' U12 and U15 training has had to be cancelled.

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:: Minis training off

By P Whyte
31/01/2010

Due to the inclement weather today's minis session has had to be canceled. In this situation we would normally go indoors but, unfortunately, all the indoor areas in the leisure centre are being used. Sorry for any inconvenience.

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:: ALL MEN'S MATCHES OFF TODAY

By Gavin Wilson
30/01/2010

See heading: ALL MEN'S MATCHES OFF TODAY, SNOW/ICE/PLAGUES OF LOCUSTS etc

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:: Beaten By Ballymena

By hm
28/01/2010

Ballymena 4 North Down 1

Ballymena defeated North Down firsts 4-1 on Wednesday night. The end result was a poor reflection of the run of play with the North Down girls put in a strong team performance pressurising the Ballymena defence throughout the game. The first half saw the Ballymena attack capitalize on North Downs simple mistakes giving the travelling team the advantage of a 2-0 lead with the first 20mins of the games. North Down dominated possession with the midfield and forward lines playing some quick passing hockey to cut through the Ballymena back line. After missed chances and missed opportunities the well deserved goal finally came through Left Wing Chloe Brown whose reverse shot from the edge of the circle fired past the Ballymena Keeper. The score at half time 2-1 to Ballymena.
The second half proved one of frustration for North Down, who played some of the best hockey of the season and as a team but couldn’t seem to convert chances on the night. They dominated the first half with a number of penalty corners but on the night the luck was with Ballymena who scored twice in the second half leaving the final score 4-1 to Ballymena.

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:: Thirds back to winning ways

By Sam Pyper
27/01/2010

The 3s got back to winning ways following previously dropping points in their last 3 games. With Armagh hot on their heels at the top of Junior 4, this may go to the wire!

With visitors Parkview always offering a physical challenge, ND gave as good as they got and dominated the first half. With all the possession the hosts could not finish their chances with Moore coming close on two occasions when really he should of scored. Some decisions didnt go Parkviews way and this got their back up early in the game, so much so that the visiting umpire did his best to even up the decisions with some unbelievable calls against ND for blatant fouls against the hosts! Tempers flew and this disrupted the course of the game. ND found it progressively hard to control a srappy game and lost possession regularily with poor passing. They did however go infront with a good move down the right when Calvin found Keith infront of goal to finish well. At half time ND had a lot to do to ensure 3 points.

The second half was much the same as the first for 20 minutes and it wasn't until skipper Pyper struck a short corner home to provide the required breathing space. This was the lifeline that ND needed and soon after presistant Keith got his second from a rebound. With 5 minutes to go Revil finished well with a cheeky reverse flick to make it four. In the last minute Parkview got a consolation goal when awarded a dubious short corner from a free that should of went NDs way following a physical clash with McKee. As usual McKee got up, his opponent did not.......

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:: NO LADIES TRAINING THIS WEEK

By ADC
26/01/2010

The ladies' 1st XI play Ballymena on Wednesday night at 7.15 at Comber Leisure Centre.

This means there will be NO TRAINING for the rest of the club this week, however all support would be very welcome.

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:: North Down disappoint at Mossley

By robin mitchell
26/01/2010

North Down traveled to the Glade on Saturday knowing that victory would almost guarantee them at least seventh place in the league.However a poor display gave the advantage to Mossley who ran out comfortable winners by 4-2.
North Down opened at a fast pace and skipper Willis played a through ball to Mark Forrest who saw his reverse effort go inches wide.Mossley were awarded a corner for feet and although the first effort was saved the rebound was blasted high and wide when it seemed easier to score.McCormick obstructed outside the circle and the umpire awarded another corner which Coates saved.Willis received a nasty ankle injury while clearing the ball and could play no further part in the game.This seemed to pass the initiative to Mossley and they scored their opening goal after 15 minutes when a cross from the left was deflected home.Ten minutes later Speers conceded another corner and the shot at goal went in of Coates glove.Just before halftime Mossley increased their lead further when following a neat one two Lee dived in at the far post to score.North Down were not able to compete with Mossleys physical approach to the game and it was no surprise when they increased their lead through Todd
As the game progressed North Down began to get more involved and Speers was unlucky when his effort from a short corner was cleared of the line by McNeill with the keeper beaten.North Down reduced the arrears when Caruth blasted home their third corner of the game.North Down drove forward winning further corners and when Caruths effort was saved Cooper was on hand to blast the rebound home.Mossley were now looking for the final whistle but North Down had other ideas and Forrest was unlucky when his deflected effort went agonizingly wide.
This was North Downs worst performance of the year and a big improvement will have to be shown in their next game which is against in form Garvey

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:: Mens seconds overcome South Antrim

By PW
26/01/2010

In what was a close game the mens seconds defeated South Antrim by three goals to two on Saturday.

It was a game were North Down did not play well but just did enough against a determined South Antrim side. North Down started the game well and Ricky McMillan had two shots on goal in the first minute, both saved well by the South keeper. However eventually the pressure told and a clever flick from Colin Mockford released Jonny Moore who confidently rounded the keeper to put the ball into the empty net. After this North Downs play became sloppy as their basics let them down. However with ten minutes remaining in the half they went two up with Jonny Moore scoring again.of a short corner variation.

South Antrim came out firing in the second half and North Down were under extreme pressure. Keeper Alex McRoberts made several excellent saves to keep the clean sheet but eventually the pressure told and South got it back to 2-1. North Down were struggling at this stage but eventually began to relieve the pressure and create some scoring opportunities and Stephen Magee made it 3-1 with a trade mark drag flick. South did not give up and with and made it 3-2 with ten minutes to go. At this stage North Down showed they have learned their lesson from earlier in the season and saw out the game comfortably.

Not a great performance from North Down who will have to improve for next weeks game at Lisnagarvey. Jonny Moore caused problems up front and was well worth his two goals but the man of the match was Alex McRoberts who had an excellent game producing several top class saves.

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:: MEN'S 1ST XI LOSE OUT IN IRISH SENIOR CUP

By R Mitchell
19/01/2010

The 1st XI were comprehensively beaten 7 – 2 by Banbridge in the first round of the Irish Senior Cup last Saturday in Banbridge. The scoreline would suggest that Bann had it all their own way but this was not the case particularly in the first half.

For 38 minutes North Down were their equals in all departments. They deservedly turned round 1 – 1 at half time but a purple spell early in the second period saw Bann draw clear and this seemed to sap the energy of the visitors and allowed them to progress comfortably into the next round for an away tie with Instonians.

Bann opened the scoring after 13 minutes when McCandless scored from their first short corner. Ten minutes later North Down were on level terms through Mark Forrest who dispossessed Forbes and rounded Lennox before shooting home. Caruth then broke down play but passed to Andy Forrest when perhaps if he had taken the ball on himself the Bann defence was there for the taking. North Down continued in attack with Bailie creating another chance for Forrest but this time the ace goal scorer lost control when in on goal. Bann’s final chance of the first half was from another short corner but Andrew Coates saved easily.

Ten minutes into the second half North Down conceded a free on the 22 metre line. It was taken quickly by McCandless catching the visitor’s defence off guard and was deflected into the net by Ward. Four minutes later the umpire harshly awarded a penalty corner to Banbridge from which McCandless scored at the second attempt. At this stage North Down seemed to lose concentration and three minutes later Dowds increased the lead with a strong shot from the top of the circle. North Down momentarily came back into the match with a reverse stick effort from Andy Forrest but Bann emphasised their supremacy by adding another from McCandless again at a short corner to make it 5 – 1. After a snapshot from Gareth Bailie which went just wide, Magowan made it six for the home team with a fine reverse stick effort. Fighting to the end, a strong run by Richard Willis won a short corner for North Down which was expertly dispatched by Scott Caruth for his eighth goal of the season and straight from the hit off Andy Forrest was unlucky not to be awarded a penalty when he was taken out by Lennox. Dowds completed the scoring when he added Bann’s seventh goal just before the end from a short corner variation.

Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Stuart McCormick

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:: Men's 2nds, 3rds, 4ths and 5ths games 16 January

By R Mitchell
19/01/2010

The seconds came through strongly in the end to defeat a robust Civil Service second eleven by 3 – 1 at Nendrum College last Saturday.

Goals from Johnny Moore for North Down and veteran Willie Cooper for Civil Service tied the game at 1 – 1 at half time. However, for most of the second half the North Down team created enough opportunities to win the game by six or seven goals but chance after chance went astray. With fifteen minutes to go, and the home spectators beginning to despair of ever seeing the ball in the back of the visitor’s net, Colin Morrison popped up from left back to tuck a cross in at the far post. Almost on the final whistle Stevie Dalzell made the scoreline safe with a similar far post goal.

The third eleven were unable to repeat their early season victory over South Antrim 3rds and returned from Lisburn with a share of the points in a 2 – 2 draw. Paul Revill and Johnny Calvin who continues to impress were the North Down scorers.

The fourth eleven had their promotion prospects dented when they entertained Civil Service 4ths at Comber Leisure Centre with both teams sharing the points in a 3 – 3 draw. Service went into an early lead on the 14th minute but it wasn’t long before Peter Shields brought the 4ths back into the game with a scrambled effort following a short corner. The second half saw defensive lapses from the home team prove costly as Service scored twice in the 45th and 51st minutes to ease into a two goal lead. However, the fourths showed their character by plugging away and were rewarded when Jamie Kitchen forced home a rebound with 15 minutes to go. On the hour, sustained pressure from the fourths following a series of short corners led to the award of a penalty stroke which Peter Shields expertly converted to tie the game at 3 – 3.

The final ten minutes of the match saw tempers rising somewhat but there was no more scoring. The diminutive Jordan Linter stood out as North Down’s Man of the Match with his tenacious tackling and clever ball distribution.

The fifths made the trip to Lisburn to play a suspiciously strong South Antrim 5th XI and despite dominating play for long periods went down 2 – 1. The North Down goal was scored by the mercurial Peter Bond.

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:: ANNUAL BALLOT PRIZEWINNERS

By Chris Revill
16/01/2010

The Annual Ballot was drawn today and the prizewinners are:
1st R McKillop - 32" LCD television
2nd Christine Irvine - Selection of Fine Wines
3rd - Bailey Hunter - 2 Culloden Spa Vouchers
4th - Claire Morrison - 2 Slieve Donard Spa Vouchers
5th - Rebecca Mitchell - Fruit and Veg Hamper
6th - Sammy Gibson - Meal for Two at McBrides on the Square
7th David Donaldson - Meal for Two at Lisbarnett Inn

We would like to thank all those who supported North Down and bought tickets for the Annual Draw, those who sponsored prizes namely OLD COMBER WINEYARD, HASTINGS HOTELS, FLAVOUR FIRST, MCBRIDES ON THE SQUARE and LISBARNETT INN and also all of our members, including the 6 or 7 ladies, who sold tickets.

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:: U14 girls training and matches

By ADC
14/01/2010

Training for u12 and u14 girls resumes this Friday night at 7.

There are 2 mini matches this Sunday (17th) at Lisnagarvey for the u14 girls team, against Banbridge (1.40) and Newcastle (2.40). If any of the team will not be down at training, please let Adrienne know whether you are available to play or not on 07740443390.

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:: NORMAL TRAINING RESUMES TONIGHT

By Robin Mitchell
13/01/2010

The pitch at Comber Leisure Centre is playable again after the recent minor cold snap. Ladies at 7.00 pm and men at 8.30 pm. There is a full set of games for this weekend - see NEXT FIXTURES.

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:: Boys Training Cancelled

By PW
11/01/2010

Boys training canceled this evening due to a waterlogged pitch.

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:: CONGRATULATIONS TO THE WHYTES

By J Patterson
10/01/2010

Slightly earlier than expected but Claire and Peter Whyte are now the proud parents of Patrick who was born today and weighed in at 5lbs 7ozs. Well done to all!

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:: Mens Training

By robin mitchell
09/01/2010

As there is no game on Saturday training has been organised at the Leisure Centre 2.00 to 3.00 p.m.

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:: ALL HOCKEY CALLED OFF THIS WEEKEND

By Jim Patterson
06/01/2010

The Ulster Hockey Union has called off all men's and ladies' fixtures this weekend. We have postponed the draw for the Annual Ballot till 16 January but members can still bring sold tickets down to the Cricket Club this Saturday afternoon.

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:: Training Cancelled 6/1/10

By PW
06/01/2010

As you may well all have guessed tonights training has been cancelled.

For those pondering what to do instead may i suggest building a snowman.

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:: ANNUAL BALLOT

By Jim Patterson
05/01/2010

The Club's Annual Ballot which was to have been drawn on 19 December will now be drawn this Saturday 9 January unless, as seems possible, games are postponed by the weather again. Committee members will be present at the Cricket Club on Saturday to receive your tickets in any case. Spare tickets are still available.

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:: Youth Recommencement

By P Whyte
04/01/2010

Just a reminder to all parents and outh members that training will recommence from Monday 11 January onwards with the Boys on Monday 11 January, the girls on Friday 15 January and minis on Sunday 17 January - all at the usual time.

See you then.

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:: NDHC V NDCC - OFF AGAIN!

By Gavin Wilson
01/01/2010

The frosty weather has put paid to the annual fixture with the Cricket Club again. With the icy spell due to continue past the weekend it will not be scheduled for Saturday either. Watch this space for more information.

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:: BOXING DAY FIXTURE FROZEN OUT

By Gavin Wilson
27/12/2009

Reprieve for the Cricket Club! Due to a frozen pitch the Boxing Day fixture has been re-arranged for New Year's Day with a scheduled 1.00 pm start. Don't forget, this is an event for charity so bring along a ballot prize, unwanted bottle of Chateauneuf-du-Pape, that sort of thing, ........

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:: BOXING DAY TEAM ANNOUNCED

By Gavin Wilson
22/12/2009

The Hockey Club team to play the Cricket Club on Boxing Day is as follows:
Darren Rodgers
Gavin Wilson
Mark Linter
Robin McMullan
Alastair Keith
Jamie McKee
Stephen Dalzell
Alain Keith
Andrew McKibben
Paul Revill
Rowan Conway
Sam Pyper
Andrew Shannon

A number of players are on stand-by but in view of the low standard of the opposition, see link to Cricket Club website, it is felt that they will not be necessary. However, all are welcome to come down and contribute to this charity fixture.

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:: Training at Lisnagarvey

By robin mitchell
21/12/2009

Training at Lisnagarvey tonight has been cancelled due to the frozen state of the pitch

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:: And the Fantasy League Christmas No. 1 is ..............

By JN Patterson
21/12/2009

Gareth Bailie with Inter Yerma 232 points
2nd Jordan McKee Dorth Nown etc etc 219 points
3rd Sam Pyper with Pypers Pros 206 points (disputed!)

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:: Disappointment at Shaws Bridge

By robin mitchell
19/12/2009

North Down lose out to late goals

The Premier league game against Instonians was delayed 30 minutes due to the frozen state of the pitch but when play started both teams served up an exciting game of hockey for both sets of fans.
In the first half play was confined to midfield .Instonians had more of the possession but the North Down defence was solid and goal mouth action was restricted.Coates had to alert to make an early save but it was North Down who took the lead after 18 minutes.Mark Forrest played a superb overhead pass which was picked up by brother Andy.His touch was superb and he converted past a bemused keeper.The North Down defence with McCormick in fine form kept the pacy Inst forwards at bay .It was North Down who almost extended their lead.Linter found Willis with a great crossfield ball but Inst defended their circle and the danger was cleared.
North Down opened the second half strongly and Forrest was put clear by Caruth but his shot was cleared.The game was now beginning to open up and a fine run by Andy Forrest on the right led to a fine cross which eluded Mark in front of an empty goal.Inst began to exert pressure as they searched for the equaliser and Coates had to be in fine form to protect his goal.Inst won the first corner of the game when McGimpsey obstructed an incoming forward.Coates made a fine clearance from Robinsons effort.At the other end Frazer found Forrest free and the keeper had to make a save.Both sides exchanged a series of corners and both keepers made fine saves to deny the strickers.
With 7 minutes remaining a poor hitout led to Inst winning a corner which was converted at the near post.Disaster struck North Down in the final 2 minutes.Firstly Irwin who had a quiet game burst into the circle and smashed a reverse shot through a ruck of players and past an unsighted Coates.In the final seconds McCormick got a yellow card for not retreating at a freehit.Although Coates saved the initial corner the rebound was slammed home to give Inst a rather flattering victory.

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:: ALL HOME GAMES OFF. XMAS BALLOT POSTPONED

By Jim Patterson
19/12/2009

Due to frozen pitches all men's home games have been postponed. At present, 11.00 am, the men's 1st XI fixture with Instonians is still on, but watch this space.

The Xmas Ballot draw has been postponed until the next hockey playing Saturday which is 9 January. However, members of the ruling politburo committee will be in the cricket club this afternoon if you still want to bring your tickets down, and get more!

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:: Christmas Break for Youth Section

By P Whyte
17/12/2009

The youth section is taking a well deserved break for Christmas with the last session being the girls this Friday.

The sessions will recommence as follows:

U12 - U15 boys Monday 11 January
U14 girls Friday 15 January
P2 - P7 Sunday 17 January

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all youth members and parents!!

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:: WHO WILL BE THE CHRISTMAS NO. 1

By JP
16/12/2009

Latest top 3 in the North Down Fantasy Hockey League is:

1 Gareth Bailie 215 points
2 Jordan McKee 209 points
3 Sam Pyper 194 points

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:: Mens seconds share spoils with Banbridge

By PW
14/12/2009

On Friday night the men’s seconds made the trip to Banbridge and will be disappointed to only come away with only one point in what was an excellent game of hockey.

North Down started the game well as Banbridge struggled to come to terms with the pace of the North Down game. However chances created were at a premium and when a chance was created the excellent Banbridge keeper was on hand to avert the danger. At the other end Alex McRoberts had to be at his best on a couple of occasions to keep Banbridge at bay. Despite the best efforts of North Down the game remained goalless at half time.

North Down maintained their standard of play at the start of the second half with Colin Mockford and Mark Linter distributing the ball well from the back. Jordan McKee was causing problems for the Banbridge team with excellent close skills .North Down got the goal their play deserved when Ricky McMillan calmly finished on the reverse. North Down pressed for the second goal that would probably have settled the game but it was Banbridge who levelled when they reacted quickly to a free hit and Alex McRoberts had no chance as Banbridge converted a 2v1 with the keeper. Both teams seemed to panic after this and play became very scrappy for a ten minute period. However it was North Down who then began to settle the game down and they pushed for the winner in the last ten minutes but could not find the winning goal as the game finished one all.

Man of the match went to Michael Black who competed fiercely in the midfield area and showed he has the skills to go with his competitive spirit.

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:: North Down only themselves to Blame

By robin mitchell
14/12/2009

North Down Slip up in Local Derby

North Down dropped two points on Saturday when they drew 1-1 with Bangor at Comber.North Down dominated the game for long spells but poor finishing cost them dear as Steven Mcclean gave the seesiders a lifeline when he convertd their one and only corner of the game.in the second half

North down could have been three up in the first ten minutes.Andy Forrest played a superb overhead which found Bailie but he shot wide.McClean was then caught in possession and Caruth played Forrest in one on one with Tormey but he shot wide of the upright.Forrest then made ground on the right but his cross was not picked up by any of the inrushing forwards..In their first attack of the game Hunter was allowed to dribble along the byline and it took a sharp save from Coates to deny him a goal.It was then the turn of Morrison to miss in front of goal after being set up by Watt and Forrest Good defending by Frazer thwarted a dangerous Bangor attack.With 5 minutes of the half remaining Caruth gave the home side a deserved lead when he hammered home a short corner.
Straight from the restart Caruth played Forrest in with a great overhead but his control was poor.Forrest reacted quickly with a free but his shot was saved.Great play by Forrest cut open the Bangor defence but Caruth saw his effort go agonisingly past the post.After 15 minutes Bangor won their first corner and McClean scored at the far post.Bangor now had their best spell in the game with Lappin probing from right back. Willis squandered a chance before North Down won another corner but it was cleared.With time running out North Down thought they had got the winner .Caruth blasted another corner of the post and Willis was on hand to slot the rebound home.The umpire initially awarded a goal but after deliberating with the other umpire he reversed his decision for a n infringement.Bangor were happy to play out time and take home a point which could be vital in their fight to strive of relegation..

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:: Ladies seconds share spoils with Victorians

By Julie Fisher
10/12/2009

On Saturday North Down 2nds played Victorians 2nds in a Junior 1 League game at Comber Leisure Centre. The game contained end to end play which reflected in the result of a scoreless draw.

The first 10 minutes saw the home side under pressure with goal keeper Adrienne Dacosta pulling off several crucial and impressive saves. As the half progressed North down settled and applied pressure on Victorians, forcing them to concede a few penalty corners but unfortunately these could not be converted.

The second half continued in the same fashion as the first with both teams enjoying their periods of pressure. Rebecca Brown and Hilary West worked well down the left while Charlotte McKee and Kerrie Brunside faught hard up front. In defence Maxine Taylor made several good clearances and Lauren Brown played a solid role at right back which won here the player of the match award.

The final whistle blew and neither team had managed to score resulting in both teams leaving with a point each which was a fair reflection of the match.

Thanks to Billy for umpiring

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:: HAPPY EVENT FOR JILL AND JUSTIN SLOAN

By JP
09/12/2009

Jill and Justin Sloan are celebrating the arrival on 7 December of Lucie weighing 8lbs 10ozs. Both are reported to be well, also Justin. Well done to all including grandparents Jim and Pearl.

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:: Ladies fifths beaten narrowly by Instonians

By Lynsey Catherwood
09/12/2009

North Down fifths played Instonians 2nd at Parkway on Saturday and from the beginning both teams were on the attack. There were many opportunities to score, but unfortunately North Down could not get the ball past Instonian’s goalkeeper and managed to concede two goals in the first half.
North Down started the second half with lots of determination and made many runs down the pitch with excellent passing between Irene McCaughan and Gillian Neil.
After being awarded several penalty corners, player of the match, Nikki Gregg finally scored North Down’s only goal bringing the score to 2-1 at full time.
The team would like to thank Claire Shields for umpiring.

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:: North Down do double on Raphoe

By robin mitchell
08/12/2009

North Down win in Donegal

North Down made the long journey to Donegal on Saturday to play Raphoe in a Premier league game which was vitally important to both teams as they strive to maintain their senior status.As was the case in Comber this was a very tight game with few scoring opportunities but it was North down who secured the points thus keeping Raphoe rooted at the bottom of the table.
The first opportunity fell to North Down.Caruth played a superb overhead finding Forrest unmarked but he shot wide.It was then Raphoes turn to pile on the pressure and it took good defending by Morrison to keep them out.From their first corner awarded for feet Patterson fired over.Coates made a fine save to deflect a Patterson cross for a long corner.After 20 minutes Caruth a nd Speers cut open the Raphoe defence and won a corner which Caruth expertly tucked into the corner of the net..Just before half time McGimpsey was harshly penalised for a tackle but Coates made a comfortable save from the corner.
Raphoe won a corner at the start of the second half but it was easily cleared.On a quick break McCormick and Watt exchanged passes before Watt saw his effort rebound to safety of the bar.The Forrest brothers combined for Andy to shoot over.Raphoe s last effort came from a corner but Coates saved from Patterson.North Down dominated the final 15 minutes and should have put the game beyond Raphoes reach.Forrest took a quick free and his cross was almost touched home by Linter.Good play by Frazer and Linter created a chance for Forrest but his effort was saved.It was then the turn of Caruth to supply Forrest but Buchanan saved.In the final minutes a good move down the right saw Caruth get in a dangerous position but his cross was behind the incoming forwards.Th e final whistle went with North Down in control and delighted to have secured three valuable points.

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:: Seconds gain revenge on Harlequins

By PW
07/12/2009

On Saturday the men’s seconds exacted revenge on a Harlequins side which had beaten them earlier in the season and recorded a comfortable 7-1 win.

Harlequins had the best of the opening exchanges with keeper Alex McRoberts having to be on his toes on a couple of occasions to thwart a dangerous looking Harlequins attack. At this stage North Down were guilty of poor basics. As the half progressed North Down gradually came into the game creating several chances. Stephen Magee opened the scoring in traditional style with a well executed drag flick at a short corner. Despite creating more chances the score remained 1-0 at halftime.

After a harsher than usual halftime team talk North Down came out in the second half determined to concentrate on their basics and this paid off in spectacular style. Jordan McKee made the score 2-0 when he reverse stick volleyed the ball into the goal following a rebound of the keeper. A well taken goal but, despite his best efforts at canvassing, not quite enough to earn the man of the match award. Stephen Dalzell made it three when he beat a couple of players in the circle and finished calmly on his reverse and Rick McMillan completed the hat trick of reverse stick goals with a superb strike from the top of the circle.

A this stage the game became very stretched and sweeper Colin Mockford had to be at his best on several occasions to deter a Harlequins side who still pushed forward. Harlequins possibly sniffed an opportunity to get back into the game when they made it 4-1. However North Down were in full flow going forward and captain Mark Linter struck twice from a short corner variation to guarantee the points for North Down. There was still time for tom Donnan to get his first of the season on his return from injury when he calmly finished in the circle.

A good win for the seconds which sets them up nicely for the visit to Banbridge next week. However they will be aware that should they display the same sloppiness as they showed in the first half this week they will be punished by top of the table Banbridge.

Man of the match was Colin Mockford who was solid at the back with honourable mentions to Mark Linter, Colin Morrison and Jordan McKee.

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:: Youth games v South Antrim

By PW
07/12/2009

On Sunday all the boys youth sides played South Antrim at Comber Leisure Centre and will be reasonably happy to come away with two wins out of three.

U12’s

The U12’s recorded an impressive 8-0 triumph against their South Antrim opponents. The U12’s are an impressive side this year and their passing and skill levels were too much for a South Antrim side who, to their credit, kept working hard to the end. With Adam McAllister and Johnny Linter pulling the strings in midfield there were many chances created and Ryan Millar, making his debut for the club, showed he will be one to watch for in future years scoring four. Josh Gilmore also showed his eye for goal with two and Johnny Linter also contributed two. An excellent start to the season for the U12’s.

U13’s

The U13’s were beaten 3-1 by a South Antrim side who were physically bigger and stronger than North Down. North Down started the game superbly with Rowan Poots driving into the circle early on and finishing superbly to make the score 1-0. South Antrim gradually came into the game and began to pressure the North Down defence eventually equalising. North Down then hit the post but the halftime score of 1-1 reflected the balanced nature of the game.

In the second half South Antrim upped their game as North Down began to struggle and the scored two good goals to open a 3-1 lead which despite late pressure from North Down they were unable to close. Notable performers in this game were Ally Hunter who was solid at centre back, Adam McAllister who was superb in midfield and Rowan Potts whose power and strength caused the South Antrim defence problems for the entire game.

U15’s

The U15’s had a comfortable 7-1 win in a game that South Antrim ensured was always competitive. North Down got off to a flier when Andrew McKibben blasted the ball home with less than a minute gone. North Down where well on top early on and created several chances that were missed. South Antrim gradually came into the game and keeper Chris McSherry had to make a couple of excellent saves to maintain the North Down lead. However North Down went two up when Andrew McKibben again hit the back of the net with a well struck shot. The sore remained 2-0 until half time.

Following their half time team talk from coaches Keith Haslett and Jordan McKee the U15’s came out determined in the second half and played some excellent hockey to score five goals. First up was Adam Tate who finished of a superb attack orchestrated by Connor Millar at the back post. Connor Millar then scored two excellent individual goals. Daniel Lavery then came up from the back to strike a short corner into the corner of the net. Peter McKibben then added a seventh when he finished neatly at the back post. South Antrim got a well deserved consolation goal near the end with a well taken short corner.

A good start to the season for the U15’s. The spine of the team was very strong with Daniel Lavery at sweeper, Connor Millar at centre midfield and Andrew McKibben at centre forward playing a high standard of hockey.

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:: MENS THIRDSMARCH ON

By Sam Pyper
07/12/2009

The third eleven hosted Cookstown 5ths on Saturday in a ‘6 pointer’ at the top of Junior 4. The thirds started the brighter of the two teams battling hard for 50/50 balls and coming out on top. Some good work from Shannon and Moore on the wings eventually resulted in a short corner which skipper Pyper dispatched low into the corner for the opening goal.
At this stage the home team were dominant and even though Cookstown looked threatening in attack, the North Down defence, marshalled by Nicholson and Gibson in the centre, was resolute. With North Down once again using attacking wing backs in McMullan and Beaney, their overlaps and one-two passing on the flanks caused lots of problems as did the rotation of wingers and wide midfield positions. When Galway and Forrest were introduced they too caused problems and when play was broken down Calvin took a quick self pass free and, before Cookstown spotted the danger, dribbled straight into the circle and struck his first goal of the season past the stranded keeper to make the half time score 2-0.
The second half started like the first with the thirds controlling the play and the Cookstown keeper did well to keep it to 2-0 with saves from Shannon and Galway short corner attempts. Cookstown then started to get back into the game and for most of the second half dominated the play. A series of short corners were successfully defended by the pace of McKee who continually deflected the attempts on goal. McKee continued to defend aggressively in his usual fashion assisted by Nicholson and Gibson who cleaned up any loose balls and let nothing through. In a counter attacking move, Forrest was unlucky not to score and seal the win for the home side but North Down stood strong under pressure in a nervy final 10 to claim the victory and the 3 points.
Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Stuart Nicholson

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:: Photos of Mens 1sts v Bangor

By Laura Clarke
03/12/2009

There are a few photographs from the mens 5-3 win against Bangor last Saturday on the Presseye website. Check them out at the link below and type Hockey or North Down into the search box.

http://www.presseye.com/

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:: Mens Seconds out of Irish Junior Cup

By PW
01/12/2009

On Saturday the men’s seconds entertained Dublin YMCA in the first round of the Irish Junior Cup and will be disappointed not to be in the next round as they produced their best hockey of the year against a good YMCA side but still went down by four goals to two.

North Down started the game on the back foot as YMCA started the game at a very high pace. After ten minutes Keith Haslett sustained a serious head injury and had to be taken to hospital. This seemed to unsettle the North Down side who immediately conceded to go one nil down. However this setback settled the North Down side who went on to play some excellent hockey in the first half creating several scoring opportunities that were not finished off. Dublin YMCA where also looking dangerous and the back two of Colin Mockford and Mark Linter, marshalled well by keeper Alex McRoberts, had to be alert so as not to allow YMCA to extend their lead

The second half started as the first with YMCA pressing and they made their pressure count to open up a two goal lead. However North Down showed they were not just there to make up the numbers and looked threatening going forward. North Down got themselves back into the game when good perseverance from Alain Keith saw him pressurise a YMCA defender into a mistake and he took full advantage to make the score 2-1. North Down continued to pressurise and equalised when Stephen Dalzell calmly finished from a rebound at a short corner. However North Down then fell asleep and YMCA scored an excellent individual goal to take the lead once again. Despite some excellent hockey North Down could not get back into the game and in the last minute YMCA converted a short corner to make the game safe.

This was a good game of hockey played in an excellent spirit by both sides. The North Down side can be pleased with their application and determination in the game but yet again a failure to take chances created has cost them dear.

All the seconds would like to wish Keith Haslett and Johnny Moore all the best as they recover from injuries sustained in this game.

Man of the match – Mark Linter

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:: Ladies matches round up

By Julie Fisher and Irene McCaughan
01/12/2009

Last Saturday North Down 2nds played home to Harlequins 2nds in a Junior one league match at Comber Leisure Centre. The visitors who held the upper hand for most of the game left victorious by 2 goals to nil.

The game began with Harlequins applying most of the pressure. North Downs defence of Maxine Taylor, Ann McBride, Karen Barker & debuting at right back – Lauren Brown worked well together at breaking down Harlequins attacks. Adrienne Dacosta in goals pulled off many superb saves to help keep the home side in the game. Although North Down were slow to settle they soon began to create their own chances and won a few penalty corners but unfortunately none of these could be converted. It was Harlequins who capitalised and scored their first goal shortly before the first half ended.

The second half provided much of the same action as the first. Marion Parker who replaced an unwell Karen Barker at left back played a very determined role which earned her player of the match. Selena Lewis and Ashleigh McLoughlin faught hard up front and Julie Fisher won several penalty corners but to no avail. North Down received their final blow when harlequins scored their second goal a few minutes from the final whistle which left the score at 2 goals to nil.

Thanks to Billy Johnston for umpiring.

North Down 4th XI ladies hockey team travelled to Cookstown in foggy conditions,hoping the game would still be played. At 4pm, under floodlight the match did go ahead and Cookstown 2nd XI started very strongly.
Within 20 minutes the home side were 2-0 up, but a great strike by Victoria Gray pulled one back for North Down, just before half time.
The Comber side soaked up a lot of pressure and Ann Burrell playing with a broken finger had a great game at sweeper. Rebecca Walker also made some crucial tackles and last minute stand in goalkeeper Judith Orr earned a well deserved player of the match!
As the game progressed North Down found their stride and grew in confidence gaining the deserved equalizer,scored by Nicky Gregg at left wing.
In a weekend match that saw the fourths lose their regular keeper and crucial driver minutes before they were due to leave the girls would like to thank Jenna Hoey's parents who helped with transport and also encouraged the team from the sidelines as well as to Judith Orr who swapped right wing for keeper!

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:: MORE PREMIER LEAGUE POINTS FOR THE MEN'S FIRSTS

By Robin Mitchell
30/11/2009

North Down defeated Bangor 5-3 in a Premier League game at Ballykillaire last Saturday to move clear of the relegation zone and keep their near rivals rooted close to the bottom of the table.
North Down got off to a flier right from the start with the Forrest brothers combining expertly but Mark was unlucky not to get a touch in front of goal. Next it was the turn of Ross Linter but he shot weakly past when well positioned. Bangor then won a series of corners but the North Down defence held firm. After 10 minutes Andy Forrest made a strong run into the circle and won a long corner which was then deflected onto a defender’s foot and a short corner was awarded. Scott Caruth’s effort was initially saved but Richard Cooper was on hand to score from the rebound and record his first goal for North Down. Eight minutes later North Down increased their lead when Caruth won a corner and then expertly flicked home.
It was all North Down at this stage but on the break Bangor won several corners however Andy Coates in goals made fine clearances. Minutes later a crossfield pass from Caruth found Andy Forrest unmarked but the normally reliable striker lost control and the chance went abegging and the same player was at fault shortly after when, from another North Down attack, he shot wide with the goal at his mercy. At the other end Coates came to the rescue again when he had to block a dangerous cross into the circle.
With 20 minutes played, Bangor were back in the hunt again as the North Down defence was slow to react at a corner and ex North Down player Stephen McLean scored to make it 1 – 2. North Down immediately hit back and should have been 2 goals to the good again but Forrest shot wide after getting clear of his marker. Just before half time Bangor equalised. They attacked down the right and a deflected cross was met by the centre forward who smashed the ball past Coates giving him no chance.

The second half opened with Bangor on the attack but it was North Down who increased their lead. Forrest and Bailie outpaced the defence and Bailie was left with a simple tap in. Both sides exchanged corners which were dealt with by strong defences before North Down restored their two goal advantage after 50 minutes when Mark Forrest had a shot saved but the ball broke to Simon Watt who crossed for Andy Forrest to score. Coates then made a fine save from a corner to maintain his sides lead however, after 55 minutes, Bangor got themselves back in the game when a cross from the right was deflected past a helpless Coates. Caruth gave his side some breathing space when he fired in another corner past Tormey to make it 3 – 5 and in the last few minutes it was Tormey who made a series of brave saves from Bailie to keep the score within the bounds of respectability for the home team. The game finished with Bangor being unable to get control of the ball and the final whistle went leaving North Down comfortable winners and with 3 Premier League victories in the last 4 played.
Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Scott Caruth

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:: TABLE QUIZ VICTORY FOR THE SHY TEDS

By Jim Patterson
30/11/2009

Congratulations to the team of Laura Clarke, Amy Benson, Adrienne Da Costa, Johnny Moore and Mathew Wilson who defeated other older, much more experienced and obviously more deserving teams to win the Table Quiz last Saturday night.

Thanks to all who turned up, helped in any way and especially to Quizmaster Ian Shields who as usual pulled a few new quiz tricks out of the hat to keep everyone on their toes!

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:: MEN'S THIRDS CRUISE IT AT ANNADALE

By Sam Pyper
23/11/2009

The men's thirds played Annadale 5ths on Saturday in the first of two back to back fixtures with their local rivals. Conditions were treacherous and on arrival the hosts asked to cancel the fixture, however the new pitch at Loughmoss was holding up well and with skipper Pyper fresh back from honeymoon, this game was always going to be played.

Annadale 5ths won the toss and opted to play with the wind in the first half. This aside the 3rds controlled the half but conditions restricted their normal free flowing hockey and chances came and went. The thirds defence held strong with little threat on goal and with 10 minutes to go in the first half a quick free from Pyper picked out Revil unmarked to calmly strike home from the top of the area. A great strike. ND finished the half strong and with the wind at their backs in the second half, the hard work was done.

Straight from the restart the 3rds started to pass the ball about and with the rain stopped and the wind at their backs really started to flourish. Excellent overlaps on the right from McMullan and Calvin caused all sorts of problems feeding Shannon on the right who crossed excellently throughout the match. Within 5 minutes he picked out Pyper who struck first time past the keeper to score his 150th goal for North Down. Soon after it was 3-0 as Mckee persisted after his first effort was saved to score from the rebound.

The flood gates then opened with Shannon finishing well from close range twice and completing his hatrick on the break with a precision finish. Excellent one-two passing let Moreland through into the area and after beating the last man slipped the ball to Galway to finish past the keeper to make it 7-0. All credit to the opposition who persisted for 70 minutes and were awarded a consolation goal with the last attack of the game to spoil a perfect day and the 3rd’s clean sheet. This was a great all round display with a notable performance from Stephen Forrest who showed great skill and vision in attack.

Man of the Match – Andrew Shannon.

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:: Irish Trophy Ends for North Down

By HM
23/11/2009

On Saturday North Down battled the elements and travelled to a submerged cork to face Bandon in the second round of the Irish Trophy.

The comber girls had a promising start to the match and looked strong against the southern side. Bandon however settled fast and began to pressurise the shaken North Down side who struggled to find form for the duration of the match. The score at half time saw Bandon ahead 3-0.

The second half saw a better performance from the comber girls, when midfielder Amy Benson began to create space on the right of the pitch. However it proved too little too late for North Down; in a game that can only be described as disappointing. Final score Bandon 4 North Down 0.

We would like to say a special thank you to Andrea Mockford for all her hard work in organising the weekend to cork. The farmview dairies player of the match was awarded to right midfield Amy Benson.

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:: PYPER JOINS THE 150 CLUB

By Club statto
22/11/2009

One week after Andy Forrest hit the target Sam Pyper has become only the 8th North Down player ever to hit 150 goals with his goal against Annadale 5ths last Saturday.

Congratulations to Sam, and him just back from honeymoon too!!!

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:: FIXTURES CANCELLED

By J Patterson
21/11/2009

Men's 1sts V Banbridge away, men's 2nds V Annadale 4ths and men's 4ths V Cookstown 5ths are all postponed due to flooded pitches.

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:: ANNUAL CHRISTMAS BALLOT

By Jim Patterson
20/11/2009

Ballot tickets are now available. There is a prize for the Club member who sell most tickets and the draw will be on Saturday 19 December.

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:: Postponement of youth games

By P Whyte
20/11/2009

The youth games scheduled for this Sunday have been postponed until 6 December.

Apologies for any inconvenience.

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:: Ladies Fourths suffer loss at Dungannon

By Rachel Mornin and Lauren Brown
20/11/2009

Match Report for Saturday 14th November 2009
Corporate Coaching Junior League 5
North Down Fourth Eleven-

North Down Fourths were away in Dungannon on Saturday 14th November. Unfortunately they lost 4-2 although they had an excellent game. Dungannon got an early goal scored by their left wing after a quick break through. However North Down came back strong with a brilliant goal from the top of the circle by Lauren Brown. After a period of pressure from North Down, we won a number of penalty corners, one of which Vicky Gray converted. But, as the whistle blew for half time, Dungannon won a quick penalty corner and they nipped a goal in. In the second half, Dungannon's centre forward scored a good goal bringing the score to 3-2. But North down didn't give up. The defence played very well but unfortunately at the end of the game a penalty flick was rewarded against us. North goal keeper Ashleigh Hamilton tried her best to save it but sadly could not stop the well taken flick from going in. This late goal brought the score to Dungannon 4-2 North Down.
Overall, North Down had a challenging but enjoyable match. Player of the match was Rachel Mornin.

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:: Ladies Fifths run riot in Comber

By Lynsey Catherwood
20/11/2009

Match Report for Saturday 14th November 2009
Corporate Coaching Junior League 10
Teams:North Down Fifth Eleven V Grosvenor Sixth Eleven
Venue: Comber Leisure Centre

From the beginning of the game North Down put pressure on Grosvenor, keeping almost all the play in their half. Play was stopped as North Down player Aimee Orr injured her wrist but North Down kept focused. Excellent passing from Gillian Neil on her first run out since the birth of baby Harry six weeks ago and from Laura Murray created some great opportunties and despite good efforts from the Grosvenor defence Gillian Neil found her way past the keeper twice to make it 2-0 at half time.
North Down kept up the hard work and opened up play down the left wing allowing Lynsey Lappin to score goal number three from a perfectly passed ball from player of the match Laura Murray.
Grosvenor had a few breaks but these were well controlled by the North Down defence.
North Down continued to dominate play allowing Susie Johnston to score a further two goals as she returns to form bringing it to 5-0 at full time.
The girls have yet another free week this Saturday but will hope to continue in their run up to Christmas in the manner they played on Saturday.
The team would like to thank Sally Rogers for umpiring and send best wishes to Aimee Orr who sustained a broken wrist during her first half sprint.

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:: MEN'S GOALSCORING RECORD FALLS!

By Club statto
16/11/2009

Peter Shields is now the Club's all time leading goalscorer. His 4 goals last Saturday have moved him on to 223, 1 ahead of Richard Glover. Peter has been playing since 1992/93.

Meanwhile, Andy Forrest's super strike on Saturday against Mossley was his 150th for North Down. This is his 8th season at North Down.

Congratulations to both strikers!

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:: Mens seconds draw again

By PW
16/11/2009

North Down seconds 2 v Newry 2

The seconds made the trip to Newry this week and will be disappointed to have only gained one point from a game they dominated.

North Down started the game on top with their quick passing causing Newry problems. However from Newry’s first attack on the North Down circle they fell behind to a good strike at a short corner. North Down continued to press Newry back with some excellent hockey but too often the final pass or touch let them down. Eventually the pressure told when Mark Linter slapped home from a broken down short corner. North Down had a chance to take the lead shortly after but Stephen Magee’s flick was well saved by the Newry keeper and the score remained level at half time.

The pattern of the first half continued in the second with North Down producing some excellent passages of play, dominating territory and possession, and they took a deserved lead when an excellent pass from Keith Haslett found Stephen Magee at the top of the circle and he calmly finished on his reverse. Newry began to come into the game at this stage as they pushed for an equaliser aided by the inability of North Down to maintain possession of the ball for any length of time and take the sting out of the game. With five minutes left Newry equalised when a penalty stoke was converted expertly to leave the final score 2-2.

Another frustrating game for the seconds who played some excellent hockey at times and whom created many goal scoring opportunities and short corners. They must however ensure this play is converted into goals.

The man of the match was Mark Linter who had an excellent game at the back and got his name on the score sheet.

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:: Boys training cancelled

By P Whyte
16/11/2009

Please note that due to the inclement weather tonights training for the U12-U15 boys has been cancelled.

Sorry for any hassle caused.

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:: firsts defeat Mossley

By robin mitchell
16/11/2009

North Down secure vital league points

Having been beaten by Mossley earlier in the season in the Kirk Cup North Down were eager to show the progress this young side had made in recent weeks when they met in a league fixture in Comber on Saturday.
It was Mossley who were first on the attack and were awarded a short corner for a stick tackle but the defence cleared.North Down went straight upfield and won a corner which was also cleared..After 10 minutes North Down took the lead.They won the ball on the right andfound Forrest whodribbled along the byline before squaring for Watt to score.This settled North Down and they dominated the remainder of the half.Steven McGimpsey made a great goalline clearance from a corner and the ball broke to Forrest who crossed for Frazer at the top of the circle but he was unable to get a shot away.Willis and Watt combined to win a corner and Caruth expertly flicked into the roof of the net.Three minutes later Cooper cut out a clearance and fed Forrest who hit an unstoppable reverse shot from the top of the circle past the helpless keeper.Almost immediately and against the run of play Mossley reduced the arrears when McCrea scored from a rebound at a short corner..Before half time Todd flashed a corner wide and then Watt had a shot saved..In among all the action Forrest and Cooper were shown green cards.
The second half opened with Mossley on the attack and an early corner went wide.At the other end Bailie made a strong run and his cross just evaded the inrushing Forrest.Both sides exchanged corners but it was Mossley who piled on the pressure Coates and his defence dealt with all that was thrown at them.Mossleys efforts on goal were restricted to short corners but their routine let them down.With Mossley throwing players forward North Down were looking to catch them on the break..The pace of the Forrest brothers ,Watt Caruth and Bailie was causing problems.Bailie shot wide and then Watt won a corner which was cleared..Both sides were reduced to 10 men when McGimpsey and Coulter were sent to the sin bin for rather inaucious offences.Coates made a fine save from a short corner to ensure that the points were coming to the home side.
This was a game of two contrasting halves.North Down playing fast flowing hockey in the first half and then displaying sound defensive skills in the second.

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:: LATEST FANTASY HOCKEY NEWS

By The Chief Fantasist
12/11/2009

After four weeks of North Down's Fantasy Hockey League the top three managers are:

1 Matthew Wilson 106 points
2 Jordan McKee 93 points
3 Gareth Bailie 83 points

Only 6 ladies have entered so far and 2 of these, Karen Moore and defending champion Laura Clarke' are in the top ten.

It's not too late to join. Email Jim Patterson.

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:: Seconds Snatch a Draw from the Jaws of Victory

By PW
09/11/2009

On Saturday the mens seconds entertained Antrim at Nendrum College and somehow managed to contrive a four all draw despite being 4-1 up with ten minutes left.

North Down started the game well with crisp passing and good movements from the forwards creating some good opportunities that were not taken. Antrim were relying on a longer ball game to their dangerous forward but North Down coped well with this tactic with Keith Haslett and Colin Mockford proving equal to the task. Incessant pressure finally resulted in a goal when Peter Shields converted a short corner. Just before half time North Down added their second with another short corner strike, this time from Stephen Magee.

The halftime team talk focused in the need for composure on the ball and North Down obliged creating good scoring opportunities, one of which was taken by Ricky McMillan with a good strike. Antrim, however refused to lie down and made it 3-1 shortly afterwards. North Down responded and an excellent passing move saw Jonny Moore, who looked dangerous all game, create an opportunity for Alain Keith who finished calmly. At this stage North Downs play became ragged with simple passes going astray and Antrim began to pressurise the home defence. With ten minutes left Antrim pulled it back to 4-2 and with momentum having swung in their favour added another two to make it 4-4. North Down then created two or three opportunities to seal the win but these were not taken to leave the final score 4-4.

This must be considered a harsh lesson for North Down who created many scoring opportunities and played some good hockey. However their inability to shut up shop proved costly as Antrim’s renowned fighting spirit saw them claw their way back into the game.

A good performance from Jonny Moore saw him nearly win man of the match but that award went to Matthew Wilson who, making his debut for the seconds, had an excellent game both in defence and attack.

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:: North Down lose at Kilkeel

By robin mitchell
08/11/2009

North Down unlucky at Kilkeel

North Down travelled to kilkeel on Saturday hoping to build on their success of the previous week but returned disappointed following a 1-0 defeat.
With a minute gone Kilkeel won a free outside the circle.The visitors defence was slow to set up and the ball was drilled into the circle.Keeper Coates went to cover the cross but a Kilkeel player got a deflection at the top of the circle and with Coates wrong footed the ball trickled into the net.
Annett made a strong run outpacing the North Dopwn defence but Coates made a fine tackle at the top of the circle.North Down settled and Forrest played an overheadwhich gained his side a corner but the home defence cleared.Forrest had a strong shot go narrowly past following a free.Play swung from end to end but neither keeper was troubled McCormick and Forrest both received green cards for challenging the umpires decision.
North Down started the second half in search of the equaliser and became encamped in the Kilkeel half for long periods.Firstly Cooper shot wide and then Caruth had a fine effort from a short corner well saved by the keeper.McGimpsey got a green card for foul language .Caruth won a free and Forrests effort was saved.It was all North Down at this stage and Speers had a shot saved.North Down won a series of corners but their routine was not clinical enough although a defender made a fine clearance from a Speers effort..Frazert s name was next in the book .He was yellow carded after talking back to the umpire..A neat move between Speers and Forrest was almost rewarded but Forrests effort was wide.
With time running out and North Down reduced to 10 men Kilkeel won their only corner of the game but Coates made a fine clearance .
At the final whistle North Down were disappointed not to have got something from the game which their second half performance thoroughly deserved.However they must become more disciplined and not get the umpires wrath as they must keep 11 players on the pitch at all times.

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:: MENS FOURTHS MATCH TODAY OFF

By J Patterson
07/11/2009

Raphoe 5ths are unable to field a team so today's match against the men's 4ths at Enler at 1.00 pm has been cancelled.

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:: GOALSCORING RECORDS TO FALL SOON?

By Club statto
03/11/2009

After last Saturday's games Peter Shields has moved to within 4 goals of the top of the all time scoring chart. He is currently on 218 goals, 4 behind Richard Glover in first place on 222. Meanwhile, Sam Pyper and Andy Forrest are both tied in 7th place with 149 goals apeice

Who will get to 150 first?

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:: MENS SECONDS DRAW AT MOSSLEY

By Peter Whyte
03/11/2009

On Saturday the seconds travelled to Mossley thirds for a top of the table clash and will be satisfied to come away with a point after being two goals down with ten minutes left.

Mossley started the game on top with their long ball game causing North Down some problems. However very few clear cut chances were created and keeper Andrew Coates showed he is in good form dealing with any problems comfortably. As the half wore on North Down began to create chances with Andy Spratt prominent in a creative role. However any chances created were spurned and the match appeared to be heading for stalemate at half time. However with thirty seconds left a ball was crossed into the North Down circle and following a deflection of a stick was put into the net superbly by a Mossley forward.

The second half started as the first with Mossley fired up and after two minutes they were awarded a penalty stroke following a push at a short corner which was converted expertly to give them a 2-0 lead. North Down showed their character at this point and upped the tempo of the game again creating numerous scoring chances and penalty corners. The North Down right flank of Jordan McKee and Clive Kirkpatrick were causing all sorts of problems for Mossley but the final touch could not be found. However with ten minutes to go North Down pulled one back when Andy Spratt converted a penalty stroke following a shot from Clive Kirkpatrick being stopped on the line by a foot. North Down were well on top now and Jordan McKee secured the equalising goal from a broken down short corner to leave the score 2-2.

A deserved draw and excellent fight back from North Down, although on reflection, with the chances created, a game they should have won. Noted performers were Colin Mockford, Andy Spratt and Michael Black but the man of the match award goes to Clive Kirkpatrick whose driving, direct runs at the Mossley circle were a feature throughout the game.

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:: MENS FOURTHS HIT PSNI FOR FIVE

By J Patterson
03/11/2009

North Down 4ths travelled to play PSNI 2nds at the Valley Leisure Centre, to possibly the worst astro pitch in the Province. Already in poor and slippery condition from overnight rain, a heavy 15 minute shower during the game almost rendered the pitch unplayable and both teams were lucky to complete the fixture without serious injury.
The fourths started at a frenetic pace and were amazingly three goals ahead after 6 minutes with goals on 2 minutes from Andrew Haire, 4 minutes from Peter Shields and on 6 minutes again from Haire. At this stage it looked as if the score was going to take on the appearance of, if not cricket, at least basketball proportions however the PSNI team recovered from this initial onslaught and defended their lines more successfully thereafter. It has to be said though that they were not unduly troubled by a series of North Down short corners which saw the normally accurate Peter Shields put the ball in every direction except the intended target.
In the second half, during the worst of the downpour, the PSNI 2nds team actually put a few dangerous attacking moves together and young Adam Drakely in goals pulled off some great saves to eventually keep a clean sheet. Justin Sloan at sweeper had his best game of the season and was solid at the back as the last line of defence. With 10 minutes remaining skipper Marty Moreland scored from close in to make it 4 – 0 and moments later Peter Shields added his second with the goal of the game with a reverse stick shot from the edge of the circle.

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:: LADIES' SECONDS WIN AWAY AT BALLYMENA

By Hannah McKee
03/11/2009

On Saturday past North Down Ladies 2nds enjoyed their first Junior One league win of the season. They played away to Ballymena 2nds at the Showgrounds and won 3 – 2 in a very tight match.

The game provided plenty of goals with the home side scoring within the first 10 minutes. North Down quickly retaliated. Selina lewis broke down the right and neatly passed the ball to Ashleigh McLoughlin, who slotted it into the net. The visitors, revived by this equaliser, lifted their game and before the end of the first half scored their second when Laura Murray executed a perfect strike, beating the keeper and scoring her first goal for the 2nds.

The second half continued in the same vein as the first with end to end play from both sides. Maxine Taylor played a super solid role as sweeper while Lauren Brown, Nicky Hunter and Karen Moore played tirelessly in defence, breaking down the Ballymena attack. Notable performances up front came from Selina Lewis who tormented the home side’s defence and Ali Miller who played with great determination in her debut for the 2nds.

Ballymena pulled the score level again but this was not to last as, ten minutes from time, North Down scored the winning goal. The ball was crossed from the right into the circle, intercepted by Selena Lewis who made no mistake in placing it past the keeper into the net.

A fabulous team performance all round from North Down seconds!

Thanks to Billy Johnston for umpiring.

Player of the match : Selena Lewis

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:: MEN'S THIRDS DEFEAT LEAGUE RIVALS

By Sam Pyper
02/11/2009

Having lost their unbeaten record the previous week North Down 3rds entertained Armagh 2nds at Nendrum College last Saturday, a team who in previous years have claimed the share of the points home and away.
The 3rds were back to a full squad following player shortages last week and their first defeat of the season. Skipper Pyper was looking for a reaction in order to maintain top spot and increase the gap from their Armagh rivals following in second. The game started brightly with excellent work on the right with Wilson and Calvin linking and overlapping well. On 10minutes a chance fell to Pyper on the edge of the area and his first time shot give the keeper no chance for the opening goal. This was just what North Down needed and their confidence grew. A blistering, and thunderous, run from big Nicholson down the right would have been the move of the game had Wilson not edged his cross the wrong side of the post.
The home side continued to press and at one of a series of short corners the ball was slipped to Alain Keith who put the hosts two goals to the good with a perfectly placed shot. For the remainder of the half Armagh 2nds dominated play but were unable to make the breakthough.
The second half continued as the first had ended with the visitors dominating for long spells only to be thwarted by some excellent last ditch tackles from Beaney and some fine saves from Rodgers in goal. The thirds eventually eased this pressure when Galway made a mazy run along the bye beating four Armagh defenders, and one a second time, before slipping the ball past the keeper from a tight angle. This was just what the home team needed to wrest control of the game once more and the match finished with the thirds well in control and on paper having a comfortable 3 – 0 win.
Johnny Calvin and Mathew Wilson have continued their fantastic partnership on the right hand side and justifiably shared the Man of the Match Award.

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:: North Down secure first league points

By robin mitchell
01/11/2009

North Down defeat Raphoe

North Down entertained Raphoe on Saturday at Comber Leisure Centre in the Premier league.Having lost their opening four games it was vital for the Comber boys to get points on the board and coaches Johnston and Davis were delighted with a fighting performance which saw them run out winners by 2 goals to nil.
Both teams knew the importance of this fixture and it was fought in a very competitive but fair manner.
The first half saw play swing from end to end with neither keeper being unduly troubled.Raphoe were first to show and won an early corner which was cleared.Andy Forrest was caught in possession in midfield and Linter made a frantic stick tackle to break down play.From the resultant corner McGimpsey had to clear of his line.North Down settled and began to control play.A strong run from McCormick failed to produce a shot on goal.Willis who was making good runs from the back had a shot well saved..Just before halftime McRoberts had to be on his toes to clear a short corner effort.Cooper who was having a good game in midfield was shown a green card just before the whistle blew for a stick tackle.
Early in the second half Frazer got a green card for a robust tackle.Caruth was unlucky to be brought back by the umpire for a free after having broken through a Raphoe tackle and got himself into a dangerous position.After 15 minutes Speers got a red card for a tackle which even the Raphoe players admitted should have been yellow at worst.However this proved to be the turning point in the game as North Down were able to find new energy and control the game.Linter had a great chance when the ball broke to him in mid circle but he shot weakly.Forrest made a strong run and was fouled.From the resulting corner North Down were awarded af flick when the ball was illegally stopped on the line.Forrest who had missed from the spot the previous week stepped up and expertly shot into the roof of the net.Forrest was now on fire and he won another corner after making a fine interception but the chance was wasted.
With 12 minutes remaining McGimpsey got a yellow card for a poor tackle and with North Down now down to nine players Raphoe surged forward.However the North Down defence held firm and Mc Roberts cleared his lines well when called upon.With time running out Raphoe over committed and when Frazers clearance found Forrest he had a clear run on goal.He confidently rounded the keeper before shooting home.In the remaining four minutes Raphoe were unable to break down a resolute home defence.
The coaches will be looking for the same level of performance when they travel to Kilkeel next week in another vital game as they strive to maintain their premiership status.

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:: CLAIM YOUR CLUB SUBSCRIPTION DISCOUNT NOW

By Willie Reid
31/10/2009

If you pay your Club subscription on or before 31 October 2009 you will get a massive Ł10 discount. It's going to be paid sooner or later so pay now and you have Ł10 to spend on something else! Subscriptions, with the discounted amount in brackets, are:

Senior playing member Ł180.00 (Ł170.00)
Under 21 member Ł150.00 (Ł140.00)
Resident student Ł125.00 (Ł115.00)
Non resident student Ł60.00 (Ł50.00)
Junior (U18 on 1 Oct) Ł105.00 (Ł95.00)
Minor (U15 on 1 Oct) Ł80.00 (Ł70.00)
Youth (U11 on 1 Jan) Ł60.00 (Ł50.00)
Ladies veteran Ł75.00 (Ł65.00)
Family membership Ł325.00 (Ł315.00)
Non playing N/A Ł25.00 (Ł25.00)

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:: Girsl Training Cancelled

By L Clarke
30/10/2009

Please note that training for U14 girls is cancelled this evening due to half term. Have a good Halloween and see you next week.

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:: Mens seconds defeat Garvey

By PW
26/10/2009

On Saturday the seconds entertained Lisnagarvey at Ards Leisure Centre and emerged victorious by one goal to nil after an entertaining game of hockey.

Lisnagarvey started the game on top pressing North Down back and playing ball after ball into the North Down circle. However the defence, marshalled superbly by keeper Andrew Coates and Colin Mockford, kept clear cut chances to a minimum. North Down looked dangerous on the break but the forwards were guilty of not holding the ball up. As the half wore on North Down came more into the game and created a couple of chances themselves but failed to convert leaving the half time score 0-0.

North Down came out in the second half determined to put sustained pressure on the Garvey circle and they began to dominate the game. The forward line began to hold onto the ball and with the correct decisions being made chances began to be created. After a couple of near misses Jonny Moore picked the ball up from a break and attacked the Garvey circle. The keeper made a good save but the ball ran to Ricky McMillan who calmly converted to give North Down a deserved lead. Garvey continued to play some good hockey and Andrew Coates had to be on his toes with a couple of short corner attempts. However North Down looked the more dangerous team and will have been disappointed not to have scored another goal. However they held on comfortably for a 1-0 win.

A good game of hockey played in a good spirit between two sides who tried to play hockey in the right way. The defence of Andrew Coates, JordanMcKee, Mark Linter, Keith Haslett, Colin Mockford and Colin Morrison were the foundation of the victory and it was only right that one of their number, Colin Mockford, received the man of the match award.

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:: North Down Defeat Ballymena

By
26/10/2009

North Down travelled to Ballymena on Tuesday night for a mid week league clash. The comber girls emerged victorious defeating Ballymena 1-0, to secure 3 vital league points.

Ballymena started strongly putting North Down onto the back foot at beginning of the first half. Their continual pressure and dominance saw Ballymena awarded a series of consecutive short corners. The North Down defence remained solid, managing to keep Ballymena at bay, with centre back Louise Speer’s pairing well with sweeper Laura Clarke to control the centre of the pitch and protect the goals. North Down showed little sign of causing danger to the Ballymena defence, with too many unforced errors the Comber girls appeared unable to link up.

Following the break North down emerged a reformed team. The second half and a new formation saw the girls gain confidence and start to play a more attacking game with the midfield starting to compete and pressurise in the middle of the pitch. The forward combination of Zara Millar and Lindsay Stevenson linked well for North Down generating play and testing the Ballymena back line.. Late in the game a break down the left of the pitch saw North Down awarded a short Corner. Chloe Brown made no mistakes, firing home a shot from the edge of the circle. The dying minutes proved nerve wrecking for the North Down spectators with Ballymena continuing to fight till the end but the North Down Defence held strong to leave the final score 1-0 to North Down.

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:: MEN'S 4TH XI MATCH TODAY OFF

By R Mitchell
24/10/2009

The 4.00 pm fixture with Portrush 2nds has had to be postponed due to a waterlogged pitch at Comber leisure Centre.

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:: MENS SECONDS SEE OFF SOUTH ANTRIM 2NDS

By Peter Whyte
20/10/2009

On Saturday the 2nd XI entertained South Antrim at Nendrum College and emerged winners by six goals to three.

The game started dramatically when a mistake by the North Down defence allowed South Antrim to break into the circle and finish strongly within 30 seconds of the game starting. North Down responded to this setback by pressing South Antrim back but a lack of composure in the circle ensured that the South Antrim goal remained intact. It took until half way through the first half for Andy Spratt to convert a penalty flick to equalise. North Down scored their second shortly after when Stephen Dalzell converted a broken down short corner to take his scoring streak to four in three games.

The seconds had not played well in the first half but came out in the second half determined to improve their basics. Scott Caruth was moved to the centre of the park in a tactical reshuffle and he began to dominate the game scoring to make the score 3-1. However another mistake from the North Down defence allowed South Antrim back into the game.

Scott Caruth then notched his second from another good pass from David Shepherd who was prominent on the right wing. In an admirable attempt to keep the game exciting, North Down managed to concede another to South Antrim to make the score 4-3. In the closing stages the seconds scored two good goals from David Shepherd and Ricky McMillan to make the final score a more accurate reflection of the pattern of the game with the final score 6-3 to North Down.

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:: MEN'S THIRDS STILL UNBEATEN

By Sam Pyper
20/10/2009

The 3rd XI went to Doagh on Saturday, ready for the usual scrappy gravel encounter that Parkview 2nds have made their own over the seasons. With North Down 3rds topping the league, confidence was high but they were all too aware of what it takes to get a single point at Parkview, never mind three.

With some experience in the away team, the 3rds adapted their style of hockey and played Parkview at their own game crashing balls into the area from all over the pitch looking for the bouncing long ball. The hosts looked rattled with the visitors closing down play and winning most of the 50/50 balls and it wasn't long before they were ahead as Revill crashed home from a narrow angle. A second was soon added when a cross found Shannon who deflected past the keeper for Revill to get a simple tap in at the far post.

The thirds went into the break and couldn't have wished for a better first half. The second half was much the same as the first, and the visitors extended their lead when Pyper flicked home through a crowd of players to score his 10th of the season. Parkview's umpire tried his best to get the home team back into the game, allegedly, with some dubious short corners awarded, but McKee was quick off the line and deflected each to safety. Parkview did come close when a shot struck Rodgers pads and looped goalwards only for Wilson to clear off the line.

With 5 minutes to go, the goal of the game came from Revill who repeated his hatrick on his return to hockey last year at this ground. Pyper's cross found him in the area and Revill caught the ball on the half volley to send it into the roof of the net. This was a great display from all of the team and a memorable 4 – 0 scoreline.

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:: LADIES 4THS SUFFER AT DROMORE

By Anne Burrell
20/10/2009

North Down Ladies 4th XI travelled to play an impressive Dromore 3rd XI and came away at the wrong end of a 6 – 0 defeat.

Victoria Gray, the North Down player of the match, was solid at defending and at times looked dangerous and contributed to some promising play from the North Down team. The McCaughan duo of Irene & Claire, Jenna Hoey and Caroline Elliot also created some positive passages of play. But Dromore were the dominating side and proved too strong and quick scoring 3 goals in the first half.

A poor start to the 2nd half led to an early goal from the Dromore side. Not disheartened the defence soon picked up with some excellent moves from Rebecca Walker and impressive saves from Goalkeeper Ashleigh Gorman. Attacking play from Irene McCaughan kept the Dromore side at bay until a loose ball from the left wing was rocketed into the back of the net for a fifth goal. Moments later, a quick break from the Dromore side led to a final goal leaving the final score at 6-0.

The girls would like to thank Krista Blanchflower for umpiring having barely touched down from a flight from Las Vegas.

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:: Boys Youth Fixtures 2009/10

By Peter Whyte
19/10/2009

The following fixtures have been organised for the boys youths teams this season:

South Antrim home 22 nov
Mossley away 13 Dec
Garvey away 17 Jan
Banbridge home 21 Feb
Inst home 14 March
Harlequins home 18 Apr
V Annadale tba

In a changed format this year the U12, U13 and U15 boys teams will all play on the same day at the same venue. The cups will be run on a blitz basis in April/May.

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:: MEN'S FIRSTS LOSE TO COOKSTOWN

By Robin Mitchell
19/10/2009

Current Premier League champions Cookstown were the visitors to Comber last Saturday for North Down’s third league game of the season and the home team remains pointless as the Co. Tyrone team eased to a 4 – 1 victory.

North Down settled early into their rhythm and seemed undaunted by the task ahead as they started with a series of fluid passing movements and indeed the first goalmouth action was at the Cookstown end. A Gareth Bailie drive into the circle was dealt with by the experienced Cookstown defence.

After 7 minutes Ewan Butler won Cookstown’s first short corner and although Alex McRoberts saved the initial shot, the rebound fell to Andy Barbour who fired home the opening goal. This heralded a spell of intense pressure from the visitors as Colin Donaldson skied a reverse stick shot over the bar and moments later at Cookstown’s second short corner McRoberts tipped a drag flick also over the bar. David Ames linked well with Mark Crooks whose shot was again well saved by McRoberts and David Frazer was on hand to clear the ball off the goal line from the resultant long corner. Frazer again cleared the lines on 22 minutes when a shot from Ivan Steen looked a certain goal.

Minutes later, Cookstown’s pressure finally paid off when they scored from their third short corner. McRoberts did well to save a rasping shot from Stuart Smyth but he was adjudged to have cleared the ball in a dangerous manner and a short corner was awarded. Again McRoberts saved the initial shot from Ian Hutchinson but the rebound fell to Barbour who drove home his second goal. With 2 minutes remaining in the first half the visitors effectively ended the contest with their third goal again from a short corner. Some fancy stickwork from Greg Allen led to him being fouled in the circle and it was Allen himself who deflected Hutchinson’s initial shot into the net for the third goal.

The second half started as the first had ended with sustained pressure from the visitors. First of all, Gareth Cuddy shot over the bar when well placed and then Greg Allen hit the post with a deflected effort which was finally cleared by Keith Conway. On 51 minutes Stuart Smyth weaved his way through the North Down defence only to see his goal bound shot turned away for a long corner. The cross from the corner fell to Smyth and he made no mistake with his second chance, driving the ball into the corner of the net for goal number four.

As Cookstown eased off, North Down gradually got back into the game. A reverse stick shot from Andy Forrest went narrowly wide and then Chris Speers had two short corner drag flicks saved by Hughes in goals. Five minutes from time the Comber boys were finally rewarded for their second half efforts when Chris Speers finally beat Hughes with yet another drag flicked penalty corner and Cookstown reacted to the pressure by having both Stephen Sloan and David Ames green carded.

So, a 4 – 1 home defeat, but coaches Johnston and Davis will have been pleased with the disciplined approach of this young North Down side particularly in the second half but it doesn’t get any easier as this Saturday they face a tough trip to Lisnagarvey.
Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Graeme Morrison.

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:: Ladies 1sts lose to Cookstown

By
17/10/2009

North Down 0-1 Cookstown
North Down had their first home game of the new season on Saturday and were hoping to follow on from last week’s win over Ballyclare. However a below par performance at critical stages of the game meant the Comber girls came away empty handed.
Cookstown started strongly putting the home side onto the back foot at beginning of the first half winning a series of short corners however North Down managed to weather the storm and fight their way back into the game. When they did regain possession North Down lacked composure and continued to give the ball away cheaply and had to rely on counter attacking hockey to create attacking opportunities particularly through Chloe Brown who was causing the Cookstown defence all sorts of problems. Cookstown again stepped up the pressure at the end of the first half but found North Down’s central defensive partnership of Louise Speers and Laura Clarke hard to break down and the game remained goalless with Goalkeeper Nikki Ferris making a string of good saves.
In the second half North Down began to keep the ball for longer spells , putting the visiting defence under a lot of pressure and winning a series of short corners however the elusive first goal was not forthcoming. As the half wore on and the game swung from end to end it looked like North Down were going to come away with at least a point. However when what looked a wasted through ball by a Cookstown midfielder crashed off the post back into play North Down were caught unawares and the ball was moved to the back post for a simple tap in for the Cookstown forward. This seemed to finally spur North Down into and they piled on the pressure for the remaining 10 minutes looking for an equaliser. Chloe Brown forced a number of saves from the Cookstown keeper but it was not going to be North Down’s day as Hannah McKee failed to convert Eve Grimason’s cross from the right and the later also saw a shot go wide right at the death. The girls will hope to get themselves back on track against Ballymena on Tuesday night at the Showgrounds.
Farmview Player of the Match Louise Speers

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:: thirds go top

By sam pyper
15/10/2009

The thirds hosted South Antrim in a top of the table clash. South Antrim fresh from a Junior 3 exit were always going to be tough, but with North Down in fine form the 3s approached the game with confidence. For the first 15mins of the match the thirds controlled but the final pass was consistently poor during attacking play and the South keeper remained untested. A deliberate back stick stop during a goal scoring opportunity presented Pyper with a penalty flick, however this went agonisingly wide. North Down continued to press and South could have scored if not for the defensive lunges of Nicholson and Mockford to deny. Half time 0-0. The second half started as did the first withNorth Down controlling but wasting 2 on 1 opportunities. Some well worked shorts came close before Mockford stepped up to strike traditionally home. This was just the lift that the thirds needed and they went on to score a further 3 goals in 10 minutes to finish their opponents off, through S Moore (2) and Pyper. The thirds now find themselves top of the league with a goal difference of +22 with no goals conceded. Next week they are up against Parkview on the shale and will have to adapt their game to suit.

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:: Ladies fourths draw

By claire whyte
13/10/2009

North Down Fourths second league game of the season ended in a frustrating nil all
draw when they entertained Ballymoney at Comber Leisure Centre on Saturday.

The home team started the stronger putting the visitors under relentless pressure but some fantastic goalkeeping from Ballymoney's very talented young keeper denied the home side any score.

What little pressure North Down had on their own defence resulted in a clean save from keeper Ashleigh Hamilton and confident defending from Rebecca Walker as well as from sisters Vicky Gray and Nicola Hunter who got player the match in her season debut!

Anisa Daghert linked well in the centre of the field with the McGuaghan duo and Jenna Hoey also creating some positive passages of play leading to chances from Amiee Orr, Claire and Irene McGuaghan, however at full time the scoreline did not reflect their efforts leaving this very promising squad with an away fixture against Dromore to fight for some much deserved league points.

The girls would like to thank Julie Fisher for umpiring.

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:: Defeat for seconds at Stormont

By peter whyte
13/10/2009

On Saturday the mens seconds travelled to play Civil Service seconds on the late slot at Stormont.

The seconds started the game of at a high pace with the focus on maintaining possession of the ball and pressed the Service team back with some excellent play. Keith Hasletts distribution from the back and the midfield work of Tom Donnan and Michael Black were prominent in this period. However against the run of play Service took the lead when the ball was hit into the circle and was deflected by keeper Coates. North Down did not panic and continued to play possession hockey. They got their reward when Stephen Dalzell continued his scoring run with a magnificent lob over the keeper from an acute angle half way through the half and then Colin Morrison added another – just reward for what has been an excellent start to the season for Colin.

Unfortunately in the second half a strengthened Service side dominated the game and were ably assisted by a poor second half performance from North Down. Keeper Andrew Coates had to be at his best on several occasions to keep North Down in the game but could do nothing about the three goals that were scored by Service to secure a 4-2 win.

This was another game in which the performance of the seconds varied wildly from half to half. The first half performance showed the exciting promise of this young side but unfortunately all was undone by a poor second half performance from which lessons will have to be learnt.

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:: Firsts Start League With Away Win

By HM
11/10/2009

The league kicked off on Saturday with North Down travelling to Ballyclare for a must win game. Stepping up to the challenge North Down started the season as they mean to go, with a convincing 3-0 win.

After a slow start to the first half North Down began to set the run of play and pressurise the Ballyclare side. However, carless errors from the comber side gave the ball away to easily leaving them unable to capitalise on any attacking play created. The defence controlled the game for the comber side displaying an exceptional work rate, breaking down the Ballyclare play and creating the counterattack. Half way through the first half, scrappy play in the edge of the circle saw North Downs persistent efforts rewarded with a penalty corner. Right winger Lynsey Stevenson made no mistakes and slotted in goal number one off the post. Goal number two followed before half time with left winger Hannah McKee salvaging a deflected shot from Lynsey Stevenson.

The second half saw North Down look confident and composed, dominating the game they began to display signs of style and standard of hockey to come from the side. The defence continued to control the game, with Louise Spears having a superb game at centre back, stopping the ball off the goal line and creating problems for Ballyclare. Late in the game, a break down the right set centre forward Chloe Brown up with a shot from the top of the circle and goal number three for the side. Goal Keeper Nikki Ferris, kept North Downs clean sheet, saving a penalty flick in the last minutes of the game.

Next week the girls play Cookstown in the league at Comber.

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:: Annadale defeat firsts in League encounter

By robin mitchell
11/10/2009

Having been beaten earlier in the week by Annadale in the Anderson Cup it was with intrepadation that they travelled to Jordanstown for this league fixture.However a much improved performance saw them push Annadale all the way before finally going down by 2 goals to nil.
Annadale were first to press and McRoberts had to be on his toes to deny Caruth on two occasions with fine saves.It was Caruth who gave Annadale the lead after 10 minutes.He evaded 2 tackles and then beat McRoberts at his near post with a reverse shot.Cooper returning from onjury was put through by Spratt but the Annadale defence held firm.Annadale won their first short corner just before halftime but their effort was easily cleared.
Early in the second period Annadale won a short corner.The ball was played in from the right and with noone in close proximity the ball bounced of McCormicks stick and hit him on the foot.Hamilton dispatched the ball into the corner of the net.Both sides exchanged corners but the defences held firm.Hamilton then found himself clear but McRoberts deflected the ball wide.Linter won the ball in midfield and played a good pass to Watt but he was unable to get past his marker.McCormick and Bailie combined to win a corner which Annadale struggled to clear.From the follow up corner Forrest saw his reverse shot well saved by Moore.North Downs final effort saw good skill from Watt to set up Bailie but his effort was cleared.
A much improved performance and good all round committment from all the players.

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:: FANTASY HOCKEY LEAGUE

By The Administrator
10/10/2009

The North Down fantasy hockey league will start with games on 17 October. If you want to be there for the start of the season you have only 6 days from now to enter a team. Contact is J Patterson.

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:: Firsts exit Anderson Cup

By robin mitchell
08/10/2009

Still without skipper Richard Willis and Richard Cooper through injury North Down travelled to Jordanstown on Wednesday evening to play Annadale.
Annadale opened at a frantic pace and caught North Down cold.After just 2 minutes they won a short corner and Hamilton tucked it into the corner of the net.Four minutes later the umpire awarded a dubious free in midfield to Annadale.Caruth took the free quickly .He drew the defenders before crossing for a simple tap in at the far post.
As happened last week North Down found themselves with a mountain to climb but they dug in and apart from conceding 4 corners restricted Annadales attempts on goal.North Downs best move of the half saw Forrest meet Frazers cross and his first time effort went over the bar.Before halftime Hamilton increased his sides lead from a corner.
In the second period play was more even with defences restricting clear chances.Both sides exchanged corners but it was Annadales clinical finishing that saw them extend their lead.Just before the end Annadale got number 5 from the best move of the game.
North Down will have to up their performance when they return to the same venue on Saturday for a league game otherwise they could find themselves on the end of another heavy defeat.

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:: Ladies fours deliver on promise

By Jayne Alexander
07/10/2009

North Down fourths celebrated a great win in a friendly at Ards Leisure centre, defeating Saintfield thirds 7-0. The first four goals were scored by half time, two by Jane Alexander, one by Judith Orr, and one by Claire McGaughan.

Several great runs from Jenna Hoey contributed immensely to North Down’s attacks, and strong and accurate hits from the newly-wed Victoria Gray kept the ball constantly in North Down’s attacking end, enabling us to dominate the first half.

In the second half, North Down continued to remain in control as Laura Murray, Victoria Gray, and Jane Alexander all used their speed to carry the ball into the circle, resulting in the score being almost doubled with a further two goals from Jane Alexander, making her total to four, and a second goal from Judith Orr.

Rachel Mornin stayed strong in defence and continued to move the ball towards the circle for the forwards to pick up and maintain North Down’s lead throughout the game.

Many thanks to Claire Shields for umpiring the match and for giving her advice at half time.

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:: Defeat against Instonians

By robin mitchell
06/10/2009

North Down entertained Instonians in their first Premier League game at Comber Leisure Centre on Saturday.Although going down by 4 -2 North Down can feel proud of their performance and if they had defended better could have got something from the game.
Inst started the better and put the North Down defence under early pressureSpeers failed to make a tackle on Robinson and he was able to get a shot in from the top of the circle.The pace of the shot deceived McRoberts and the ball hit the backboards.Shortly Robinson got his second from a penalty corner.Andy Forrest almost reduced the arrears but his superb effort cannoned of the bar.For the remainder of the half Inst controlled play but were unable to create any clear cut chances.They did win a number of short corners but their routine let them down.
Early in the second half Frazer was caught in possession and Watt scored from a reverse shot.North Down began to grow in confidence and Watt cleverly won a short corner which Speers expertly dispatched into the net.North Down won another corner but the delivery was not accurate enough.Conway played a super overhead pass which put Forrest in on goal but he took the wrong option and shot rather than passing to an unmarked colleague.North Down won further corners but these were cleared.With about 10 minutes remaining North Down further reduced the deficit with a well worked goal.Watt and Mark Forrest split open the Inst defence before proniding Andy Forrest with a simple tap in.Instead of pushing hard for the equaliser North Down took the foot of the pedal allowing Inst to win a corner.A;though the initial effort was saved the ball was not cleared to safety and Watt was allowed to slot home to secure an opening victory for his side.

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:: Mens seconds defeat Kilkeel

By PW
06/10/2009

This week the seconds faced a tricky tie against a Kilkeel team who, like them, had suffered relegation from Junior One last year.

Most of the pre-match talk focussed on the need for North Down to play from the start instead of waiting until the second half to produce a performance and this seemed to work as North Down started the game positively. However from their first attack sloppy play from North Down allowed Kilkeel to win and convert a penalty corner. However the pattern of play remained the same with North Down applying pressure to the Kilkeel circle and eventually this pressure told when Stephen Dalzell produced the equaliser. Kilkeel had dangerous, pacy forwards and the North Down defence had to be on their toes but nearly all the pressure was coming form North Down although sloppy finishing saw opportunities that were created spurned until a penalty corner was won on the stroke of half time and Stephen Magee flicked strongly to give North Down the lead they deserved.

In the second half the same pattern of play continued with North Down holding onto the ball better and this was rewarded when a good team goal was scored by Jonny Moore at the back post following a good run along the bye line by Ricky McMillan. Kilkeel were, unfortunately, reduced to ten men due to injury which blunted their attacking play and North Dow made it 4-1 when Stephen Dalzell scored his second of the day with a strong finish.

A good win and a positive response to last weeks poor performance for North Down sees them in confident form before this weeks trip to Civil Service.

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:: Fourths suffer loss but signs are promising

By CW
01/10/2009

North Down Fourths travelled to Garvey for their league opener and although they failed to secure a victory, losing 2-0, the girls showed real promise playing with initiative and drive.

From the outset North Down took control, refusing to let the still somewhat alien water based pitch deter them from pressuring the Lisnagarvey defence.

New girls Irene and Claire McGaughan worked well with solid passing and Player of the Match, mid fielder Anisa Daghart executed some beautiful moves to maintain a constant supply of ball to forwards Jayne Alexander and Emma McGimpsey.

Lisnagarvey remained focused throughout the first half but conceded a penalty stroke after 20 minutes that unfortunately was not finished by Stephanie Brown.

The North Down girls continued to play constructively in the second half but a lack of match fitness resulted in a loss of concentration when the home team scored both their goals in quick succession 15 mins into the second half.

Fresh legs for North Down in the final quarter with Irene McGaughan, Jenna Hoey & Rebecca Walker returning to the pitch provided a welcome shake up both in attack and defence spurring on all of the girls to a final 10 minutes which saw a sustained attack on the Garvey defence only relieved when the final whistle blew.

Many thanks to Sally Rodgers protégé- Darren for umpiring the match- His mother has taught him well!

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:: RETURN OF NORTH DOWN'S FANTASY HOCKEY LEAGUE

By Jim Patterson
29/09/2009

The new season of the fantasy hockey league (and cup), both won so magnificently last year by Laura Clarke, is about to start. Everyone for whom I have an email address has been invited to enter.

Some have even replied already, gasp!

If you haven't heard from me, I haven't got your email address. Contact me at jim.patterson@talktalk.net and I'll send you the password when we're ready to go.

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:: Seconds Disappoint at Gravey

By PW
28/09/2009

On Saturday the seconds made the short trip to Hillsborough to take on Lisnagarvey and will be disappointed to come away with only a share of the spoils following a no score draw.

North Down failed to learn their lesson from last week and started the game slowly with too many passes going astray. Keeper Alex McRoberts had to be on his toes on a couple of occasions to keep a determined Garvey team at bay. As the half wore on North Down began to make an impression on the game but a combination of poor passes and wrong decisions meant they were unable to create any clear cut chances.

In the second half North Down came out with a more determined attitude and upped the pace of their game creating several scoring opportunities but a combination of good goalkeeping and poor finishing kept North Down scoreless. Johnny Moore was prominent in this period and caused the Garvey defence problems with his direct, aggressive running. Despite almost constant pressure in the last ten minutes North Down where unable to breach the Garvey goal and the game finished 0-0.

A disappointing performance and result from North Down who must absorb the lessons of the game and move on as next week sees a difficult game against Kilkeel.

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:: Firsts defeat Newry

By robin mitchell
28/09/2009

North Down defeated Newry 3-1 in their final Cup game at the Leisure Centre on Saturday a result which will hopefully give some added confidence as they enter their League Programme
Fast flowing hockey was difficult on the slow Comber pitch and with Newry taking a damage limitation approach North down struggled to find the finishing touches necessary.
Newry persisted in playing 10 men behind the ball which resulted in North Down dominating possession but unable to break down the defence.In the opening minutes Watt had a reverse shot saved and then his clever stickwork won a corner for his team but Speers effort was saved.Morrison then made a strong run into the circle and won a corner but again the effort was cleared..North Down pressure finally paid of in the 22 minute.McCormick made ground on the left and crossed for Spratt to tap into an empty net..North Down should have increased their lead before half time but poor finishing saved Newry blushes.A fast flowing move gave Mark Forrest the best chance but the keeper made a save.
The second half was only a minute old when North Down got their second .Gareth bailie picked up the ball in mid circle and flicked home.Watt then shot wide when well placed.North down won a series of corners but their routine was poor.Totally against the run of play Newry pulled a goal back.The North Down defence backed of and allowed McWilliams to hammer a reverse home from the edge of the circle.Almost immediately North Down won a corner and although Linters initial effort was saved he followed up to hammer home the rebound.Linter should have increased the lead further but this time his effort from a rebound went wide.North Down were reduced to 10 men when McGimpsey was yellow carded for deliberate feet in the 25.Despite the player advantage Newry were unable to penetrate the North Down defence .In fact it was North Down who finished the stronger with Forrest and Watt having shots saved.

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:: FIRST GAME AT NENDRUM COLLEGE'S NEW PITCH

By R Mitchell
26/09/2009

The 3rds had the pleasure of being the first team from the Club to host a home game at the new pitch at Nendrum College and did quite well in registering a 10 - 0 victory over Bangor 4ths. Hattricks from Andrew Shannon and Ryan Galway laid the foundation for a memorable victory!

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:: Endurance Exploits

By CW
22/09/2009

Congratulations to Adrienne Da Costa and Julie Fisher who both completed major endurance events over the weekend. JR completed the Great North Run and Adrienne completed the Berlin Marathon ina time of 4 hours 23 minutes. Well done girls from all at the club.

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:: Kirk Cup defeat at Bann

By robin mitchell
22/09/2009

North Down were defeated 3-0 by Bann in a Kirk Cup fixture on Saturday Coaches Paul Johnston and Brian Davis were able to take a lot of positives from the game as North Down despite a poor start made Bann fight all the way to secure the points.
Bann got the ideal start when McCandless converted their first short corner after 2 minutes.Bann piled on the pressure and a poor tackle by Speers at the top of the circle resulted in them doubling their lead when McCandless converted the penalty stroke
North Down settled after this and had their fair share of possession.Spratt and Watt had efforts saved while McRoberts at the other end had to be on his toes to prevent McCandless from adding to his tally from two short corners
The second half started with North Down on the ascendancy and Forrest made a number of probing runs but unfortunately was unable to get a telling shot on goal
Banns experience showed mid way through the half when the added their third.A quick break out of defence took the North down defence unawares and a cross from the right was hit home at the far post.Both sides had possession in the remaining 15 minutes but both goals stood firm.
North Down will be looking for a victory against Newry in their final pool game next week in order to build confidence for the start of the league campaign

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:: thirds win at Bann

By Sam Pyper
22/09/2009

The thirds travelled to Banbridge on Friday night looking to start their league campaign with their first active win following the awarded 3 points last week. An early meet and practice on the bouncy water based pitch proved worthwhile asNorth Down soon got into their flow and most of the initial 15mins was played in the last third of the pitch. Good work from Moore, Revil and Dalzell in midfield caused all sorts of problems for the Bann defence and balls were being crashed across the circle with the first goal not too far away. North Down defence stood strong throughout the half with Rodgers very little to do in the goal
. A senior debut for young Phillip Wilson was marked with a goal after he was introduced to the fold after 25 mins. A break landed to J Moore on the right wing and they found themselves with a 3 on 2 situation. Moore beat his man, hit the buy line and picked out Wilson who just edged the advancing keeper to make it 1-0. The decision making of Moore to pick out the pass rather than shooting from a tight angle really shows how he has matured over the last year. Moore continued to dazzle with his tricks, juggles and pure persistence off the ball to gain man of the match performance, albeit there were many contenders in a great thirds display.
The tie was not over andNorth Down knew they needed another to finish the tie as ‘reinforcements’ came off the bench for Banbridge. The game was getting fierce as tackles grew stronger Frustration grew within the Ban camp only because North Down stick work was doing all the talking. A quick free from S Moore found Pyper on the edge of the circle and he struck forcefully past the Ban keeper to make it 2-0 ten minutes into the second half. The North Down defence stood strong and controlled the rest of the game

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:: Seconds get season up and running

By PW
21/09/2009

The seconds got their season up and running with a comfortable victory over Banbridge at Comber Leisure Centre.

North Down started the game poorly with poor passing and decision making frustrating their efforts to pressurise the Banbridge defence. North Down were grateful for a solid defensive display from the back four of Shepherd, Black, Linter and Morrison who were superbly marshalled by keeper Andrew Coates. After fifteen minutes North Down had to re-jig their line up with midfield maestro, Steven Barr, having to come off injured and being replaced by Tom Donnan. As the half wore on North Down began to come into the game and took an undeserved lead through a well taken drag flick by Stephen Magee. Magee had another golden chance a few minutes later but the ball was superbly saved on the line by a defender.

With the game evenly balanced going into the second half North Down came out determined to play a simpler game of hockey and after negotiating some early pressure from Banbridge they began to dominate play. Stephen Magee made it 2-0 with his second drag flick and this seemed to deflate the Banbridge side. The North Down forwards began to cause all sorts of problems for the Banbridge defence with clever running and the midfield of Donnan, Dalzell and McMillan taking turns to attack the circle. McMillan extended North Downs lead following some excellent counter attacking and completed his double with an excellent reverse stick strike. Paul Revill attempted to copy McMillans reverse stick strike and showed that his training is paying off as while the shot was poor on this ocassion there was contact with the ball. Banbridge were still proving dangerous and it took a number of well executed tackles from Michael Black to keep them at bay. North Down saved the best to last when a self proclaimed “wonder ball” from Alain Keith to Scotty Moore saw him finish calmly and make the final score 5-0.

A comfortable win for North Down who absorbed the lesson of the first half that hockey is only complicated if you make it so and produced a clinical second half display.

The gloss was taken off the game with the news of the seriousness of the injury to Steven Barr. All the seconds, and i'm sure everybody at the club, wishes Steven a full and quick recovery.

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:: END OF THE ROAD FOR PARK WAY?

By Jim Patterson
18/09/2009

At long last, the Club has been given the go ahead to start using the new sand dressed pitch at Nendrum College. From 26 September we will have the use of 2 match slots, 1.00 pm and 2.30 pm, until the end of October when we will just use the 1.00 pm slot due to the lack of floodlighting.

The only drawback is that we will have use of the pitch and car parking only, ie no other facilities.

Hopefully, this will mean that all of our Club games will now be played on astro, except in the case of fixture congestion, and that the shale pitch at Park Way which has stood us in good stead since 1972 will soon be rarely used.

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:: North Down HC's Charity of the Year

By Jim Patterson
17/09/2009

We recently decided that the Club should nominate annually a Charity of the Year and the first charity chosen is The Northern Ireland Cancer Fund for Children.

As our main fundraising event of the year for the charity we will be hosting a Golf Day on a Sunday in April 2010.

More news later.

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:: Seconds unlucky in season opener

By PW
14/09/2009

The seconds opened up their season with a tough away game to Harlequins and will have been disappointed to return to Comber empty handed following a 2-1 defeat.

North Down began the game strongly with the forward line of Forrest, McMillan and Moore causing problems to the Harlequins defence. Eventually the pressure told with Stephen Forrest finishing well on the reverse from good build up play. Harlequins began to come more into the game at this stage and had a good period of pressure during which Mark Linter stood up well. However North Down reasserted their superiority with Scott Caruth in particular causing chaos with his strong runs down the right had side of the pitch. Harlequins were proving dangerous on the break, with the North Down midfield guilty of all attacking at once. From one of their break aways Harlequins finished clinically to leave the score 1-1 at half time.

The second half followed the pattern of the first with North Down pressing, creating short corners and goal scoring opportunities, but being unable to convert. North Down where made to pay for their profligacy when following a break out from a short corner Harlequins converted another opportunity. Despite constant pressure North Down were unable to fashion an equaliser they deserved.

This was very much a wasted opportunity for North Down with the short corner count of 11-2 in their favour more accurately reflecting the balance of the game. However some poor play in and around the circle and some naive defending meant that they came away from Deramore empty handed.

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:: Fourths start season with a bang

By PW
14/09/2009

North Down fourths opened their account for the season with an excellent victory against a good Harlequins side on Friday night.

North Down started the game well with Stephen Campbell prominent with intelligent runs and lay offs and it was he who created the first goal for Sam Pyper who converted at the back post. Shortly after North Down scored their second as they cut through the Harlequins defence and Pyper converted again. Harlequins began to come into the game playing some good hockey themselves but the central defence of McKee and Wilson were able to handle anything thrown at them. North Down further increased their lead with Darren Rodgers finishing well. Harlequins showed their fighting spirit and came back into the game with a well worked goal to leave the score 3-1 at half time.

North Down started the second half as they finished the first with the midfield trio of Marty Moreland, Jonny Calvin and David Moreland dominating their opponents and creating opportunities for the forwards. Sam Pyper duly finished one of those chances to complete his hat trick and extend the North Down lead to 4-1. Again Harlequins came back into the game with the North Down team guilty of trying to play too much hockey in their own 25. Harlequins began to apply more pressure but North Down proved dangerous on the break and the Campbell/Pyper combination struck again with Pyper getting his fourth. Again Harlequins refused to lie down and scored their third. It took a good save in the last five minutes from Darkelee to ensure North Down kept a comfortable two goal cushion.

An excellent start to the season from the fourths who will hope to keep up this standard throughout the season.

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:: North Down lose Opening Kirk Cup Game

By robin mitchell
14/09/2009

North Down with a new look squad travelled to Mossley for their first Kirk Cup game of the season.
North Down opened the stronger taking the game to Mossley and won a series of corners which were well defended.In their first attack Mossley won a free outside the circle.Todd was very alert and took the free quickly.A slow reaction from the North Down defenders allowed him to steer a reverse shot past McRoberts after 20 minutes.Todd increased the lead when he beat three defenders on the by-line before squeezing past McRoberts.North Down were struggling with the pace of the pitch and when a cross field pass from McGimpsey went straight to Todd he had little trouble in shooting past McRoberts.Although enjoying the majority of the possession North Down found themselves 3-0 down at half time.
The second half was a much more even affair with neither side able to create any clear cut chances.Todd added the fourth midway through the half when Willis deflected the ball into his path.North Down put the Mossley goal under extreme pressure in the closing minutes but were unable to reduce the deficit

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:: Change to Ladies 4's v 5's friendly

By CW
11/09/2009

First the bad news. Due to vandalism at Parkway the pitch is not available for tomorrows game.

Now the good news. The match will be moved to Comber Leisure Centre with a 2.30 start. Please meet at 2.00. If you know anybody who was selected for this game please let them know of this change.

Apologies for any inconvenience and see you there.

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:: HOCKEY IN THE NEWSLETTER

By ADC
09/09/2009

There will be a hockey supplement published in the Newsletter this Friday, 11th September.

Please support Austin in his efforts to get as much hockey in the press as possible by buying it. There will be a few pages of hockey news every week throughout the season so if you have anything you think should be included please let me or Hannah McKee know:
adrienne.dacosta@gmail.com
hannah_mckee86@hotmail.com

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:: Youth Coaching 2009/10

By Peter Whyte
08/09/2009

Youth Section – 2009/10

Next week sees the start of our youth coaching for this season and we look forward to seeing both old and new faces.

Last year was again another successful year for the youth section with the highlights being the U15 boys reaching their Ulster Cup final and two of our members, Chloe Brown and Paul Ritchie, getting selected for both Ulster and Ireland U16’s.

All our sessions are taken by qualified coaches and emphasise skills development in a relaxed, fun atmosphere.

The commencement of sessions for this year is:

Monday 14th September Boys Form 1 – Form 4 18.00 - 19.00

Friday 18th September Girls Form 1 – Form 3 19.00 – 20.00

Sunday 20th September Boys and Girls P2 – P7 13.30 – 14.30

Al sessions take place at Comber Leisure Centre.

If you are interested in joining, or know anybody who may be interested, please contact our youth development officer, Peter Whyte, on 07775576693 or at whytey111@btinternet.com.

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:: Training Wednesday Evenings

By robin mitchell
18/08/2009

As from this week training on Wednesdays switches to the pitch at the Leisure Centre

Ladies 7.00-8.30 p.m.
Men 8.30- 10.00 p.m.

A good attendance is requested as pre season friendlies start Saturday week for all teams.

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:: Umpires Course

By P Whyte
05/08/2009

Ulster Hockey are organising an umpires course and exam at Stranmillis College on Wednesday 23rd September and Tuesday 6th October with the exam on Monday 19th October. If you are interested in attending please contact Peter Whyte for more information. The course is for both males and females. The club are keen to encourage as many people as possible to attend so if you have evern considered umpiring now is the time to put your name forward.

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:: pre season friendlies

By robin mitchell
05/08/2009

A full programme of fixtures begins on 12 September for all teams.In order to prepare a series of pre season friendlies has been arranged as follows

1st xi
v Banbridge 25 August
v Lisnagarvey 29 August tbc
v Waverley 4 September
vCookstown 5 September
v Raphoe 5 September

2nd ,3rd ,4th, 5th xi
v Harlequins 29 August
v Nics 5 September tbc

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:: PRE-SEASON MON 3RD AUG

By ADC
03/08/2009

CHANGE OF TIME & VENUE

Due to the onset of the monsoon season, Ladies preseason training has moved to the astro at Comber L.C. at 7.00 for tonight only.

This training is for all ladies members, including those moving up from u14 level. Everyone is encouraged to attend

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:: Training this evening

By PW
03/08/2009

Further to Adriennes message please note that both mens and ladies training will be on the astro pitch at the leisure centre from 7.00-8.00.

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:: July Competition

By Jim Patterson
17/07/2009

See the guestbook for July's competition.

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:: New Rules Explanation

By PW
10/07/2009

Not that Jimmy's explanation of the new rules for next season are not perfectly clear but if you link to the following you tube clip;

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j63hYOlJBDE;

it might all become a bit clearer. Or not.

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:: TRAINING TIMES FOR NEW SEASON

By Jim Patterson
09/07/2009

Both men's and ladies' fitness training will start at The Green at 7.00 pm on 27 July and will continue on Mondays and Wednesdays until moving onto the astro at Enler Park on 19 August, ladies at 7.00 pm and men at 8.30 pm. These will be the Wednesday training times until Christmas, at least.

Come along. You know it makes sense!

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:: Comber Leisure Centre to get Refit

By Jim Patterson
02/07/2009

Comber Leisure Centre is to get a Ł1.5M refit. The Centre's minor hall will be the site of a new Momentum gym increasing the amount of fitness equipment available from 27 to 65 pieces.

Together with other improvements, changing facilities will be made over and the astro pitch will be re-surfaced in the Spring.

The main works in the Centre will hopefully start in the autumn and the Centre will be closed for about three months. The pitch will still be available for use with floodlighting and changing facilities, possibly temporary ones, should be available. Further details will be announced here on the website when known as the work has still to go out to tender.

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:: Rodeo Riders

By PW
26/06/2009

For those wondering if our esteemed Honorary Secretary, Jimmy P, was a good hockey hockey player in his prime please feel free to follow the link; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hx60_lYBWlQ, where you will see Jimmy showing all the balance and grace that he used to bring to the hockey pitch.

Showing a touch more style is Marty Moreland at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=45ld0p1p8K8&feature=related.

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:: Baby Boy for Bart

By PW
26/06/2009

Congtaulations to Paul and Jane Beaney on the birth of baby Jacob a couple of weeks ago. Everybody doing well.

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:: New Rule - Free hits

By ADC
23/06/2009

The FIH has now introduced a new mandatory experimental rule to hockey to be applied at all levels in the forthcoming season (Branch & Irish competitions & International)

Full details of the rule can be found on the FIH website (13.2 or page 30) http://www.fihockey.org/vsite/vfile/page/fileurl/0,11040,1181-195549-212772-148180-0-file,00.pdf

It means you have to give the poor keeper time to adjust before winging the ball into the circle

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:: Irish Honours for Paul Ritchie and Chloe Brown again

By PW
23/06/2009

Congratulations to both Paul Ritchie and Chloe Brown who have again been selected for their respesctive Irish U16 squads for a series of games against England, in Dublin, this weekend. Good luck from all at the club.

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:: Hockey Summer Schemes

By PW
23/06/2009

Ards Borough Council will again be running two hockey weeks as part of their sports summer scheme. The hockey courses will run at Comber Leisure Centre from 10.00-12.00 for the weeks 27-31 July and 17-21 August. The cost for the week is a bargain Ł25.00 and is available to children aged 6-16.

For more information please contact the Council on 02891824018.

These coaching weeks tend to sell out quickly so i would recommend booking early.

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:: Further info on rule change

By Jim Patterson
23/06/2009

Thank you Adrienne for your last contribution which unfortunately leaves out the main elements of the rule change.

All levels of hockey will now apply the experimental rule applied last year to the Irish Hockey League ie the 'self taken' free hit or 'the free taken to yourself' whatever way you want to look at it. The new clause in rule 13 says "if the player taking the free hit is the next player to play the ball, the actions of taking the free hit and of next playing the ball must be two separate actions."

The next change is that when a free hit is awarded to the attacking team within the 23 metres area all players, except the striker, must be at least 5 metres from the ball. Previously this was for frees within 5 metres of the circle.

And finally for frees to the attacking team within the 23 metres area, the ball must not be played into the circle until it has travelled at least 5 metres or has been touched by a player of either team other than the player taking the free. If the player taking the free is the next to play the ball that player can play the ball any number of times but it must still travel at least 5 metres before it can enter the circle. (Or as Adrienne says, "winging it!".)

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:: Hannah Magee

By Andrew McGimpsey
09/06/2009

Stephen & Claire Magee became the proud parents of baby Hannah born asleep, at 35 weeks weighing 6lb 3oz, on the 6th June 2009.

Claire & Stephen wish to acknowledge the compassionate care and support provided by the doctors and midwives at the Royal Jubilee Maternity Hospital during this difficult time.

All welcome to call at the family home, 384 Ravenhill Road, on Tuesday 9th June.

Private family funeral on Wednesday 10th June. No flowers please.

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:: Players Wanted!

By HM
31/05/2009

As the inevitable pre season approaches we need you to spread the word. If you know someone who is keen to pick up a new hobby, get fit or wants a bit of craic on a Saturday, bring them along to pre season next month at park way. The standard doesn’t matter, they can be complete beginner through to an international super star- all are welcome!

If you are thinking of coming along to see what hockey at North Down is like and would like some further information on the club please contact: 07746345218.

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:: U15 Cup Final Report

By P Whyte
26/05/2009

Last Wednesday the U15 boys played their biggest game of the season against Cookstown in the final of the U15 cup at Lisnagarvey.

In what was an exciting and evenly contested final North Down were unfortunate to lose 2-1 to a skilful Cookstown outfit.

North Down began the game well, after soaking up some early Cookstown pressure, and were playing the ball around the back superbly with the central defence of Michael Black and Matthew Welsh setting up many attacking oppurtunities for the midfield and forwards. Despite the probings of Tom Donnan in midfield chances were hard to come by as the North Down forwards were lacking their usual movement up front. North Down were made to pay for their failure to create scoring oppurtunities when they fell asleep and a quickly taken free released danger man Ian Sloan and he set up an easy oppurtunity to make it 1-0 to Cookstown. North Down responded superbly to this set back and upped their game attacking the Cookstown circle and winning five penaly corners in a row. Despite the best effforts of David Shepherd he was thwarted by brilliant defending on the line by the Cookstown defence. The score remained the same to halftime.

The second half began with Cookstown upping their game putting pressure on the North Down defence who stood firm with the tackling of Daniel Lavery prominent. North Down were guilty at this stage of all playing in their own half instead od stretching the play out and the pressure told when Cookstown scored a scrappy goal from a short corner rebound. This seemed to spur North Down into action and the midfield of Donnan, Shepherd and Calvin began to dominate their opponents. With fifteen minutes left North Down gave themselves hope when Mark Simpson crached the ball into the net following a short corner rebound. North Down pressurised the Coosktown circle for the rest fo the game but only created half chances, that they were unbale to take, thanks to excellent Cookstown defending.

This was an excellent game of youth hockey with both sides playing the game in the correct manner. North Down were perhaps unlucky to lose a game that they played so well in. Coaches Keith Haslett and Terry Ritchie were delighted with the level of performance of the boys, as they have been all season. Thanks to the umpires who done a great job of controlling the game, to Lisnagarvey for the use of their facilities and the Ulster Branch for organising the final. And finally congratulations to Cookstown on winning what was an excellent final.

Player of the match - Michael Black

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:: U15 Cup Final

By P Whyte
18/05/2009

Just a reminder that the U15 boys will play their Ulster cup final against Cookstown this Wedenesday night (20th) at Lisnagarvey Hockey Club with a 19.15 pass back. I would encourage as many people as possible to come and show your support for the boys in what should be an excellent game of hockey.

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:: ULSTER HOCKEY UNION FOR JENNIFER PATTERSON

By Robin Mitchell
17/05/2009

At the inaugural meeting of the amalgamated Ulster Hockey Union in Belfast yesterday, Jennifer Patterson from North Down was elected Vice President. Kenny Lee from Instonians was elected as the first President so Jennifer will become the first female President in 2010 (if elected!).

Congratulations to both Kenny and Jennifer!

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:: ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

By J Patterson
11/05/2009

Don't forget!! The AGM is tomorrow night at 7.30 pm in the Cricket Club!

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:: U15 Cup Final

By P Whyte
11/05/2009

The U15 cup final has finally been confirmed for a 19.30 start at Lisnagarvey HC on 20 May 2009. The final will be against a quick and skilful Cookstown side who edged out Lisnagarvey 2-1 in their semifinal.

In preparation for the final there will be training on Mondays 11 and 18 May from 18.00-19.00. A full turn out would be appreciated.

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:: PREMIER STATUS CONFIRMED

By Jim Patterson
07/05/2009

The Ulster Branch has formally advised clubs this morning that the Premier League will be increased to 10 teams next season. Raphoe will retain their Premiership status and we will be promoted as runners up in Senior One.

The format of the Anderson Cup has changed again and it will now be played for on a knockout basis by the 10 Premier teams and the top 6 from Senior One on an unseeded basis. The Kirk Cup format is unchanged.

Whilst some might say that this is promotion by the back door it must be remembered that we were relegated from the top league by a pen stroke when we finished above the relegation place in 2001 when the Premier League was formed. We have always contended that an 8 team top flight league was much too small and promoted elitism to the detriment of the majority of clubs in the Branch so this policy change is a welcome confirmation of our viewpoint.

However, enough sermonising. Well done Paul, Brian, Rich and all of the squad ............. THE BOYS DONE BRILLIANT !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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:: ULSTER BRANCH DECISION ON PREMIER LEAGUE

By Jim Patterson
06/05/2009

Unconfirmed reports from last night's Ulster Branch Council meeting are that the Branch has voted to increase the number of teams in the Premier League to 10. If this is true, Raphoe retain their premier status and are joined by already promoted Kilkeel and, more importantly, North Down.

As soon as this news can be confirmed, you will find it on this website.

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:: Ladies Meeting

By Claire Whyte
05/05/2009

Would all lady club members please note that we will be holding a meeting next Thurs 7th May at 7pm at the cricket club to discuss arrangements for next season and to distribute trophies prior to our club AGM on Tuesday 12th May.

If you are interested in getting more involved in the running of the club or have any suggestions you would like to share on how to improve it or what you would like to see improved then now is the time to do it. We are always looking for fresh ideas and volunteers (of all ages) and all contributions will be welcomed.

As always we will be encouraging anyone wishing to get involved in umpiring or coaching to make yourself known, or if you know of someone outside the club who would be interested the more the merrier.

This meeting is as good a time as any to have your say so see you on Thursday.

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:: Rotary Young Chef of the Year

By Claire Whyte
05/05/2009

All the club would like to wish Aimee Orr the good luck as she travels to Luton to take part in the finals of ‘Rotary Young Chef’ on 2nd May. Aimee has already succeeded in winning the Irish final in February.
The menu Aimee is hoping to wow the judges with will be a starter of cauliflower soup with wheaten bread, herb-crusted salmon with baby potato dressed salad for her main course and a gingerbread brulee for dessert…..Anyone else thinking about a cookery demonstration night next season…with tasting of course.

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:: ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

By Jim Patterson
02/05/2009

Don't forget the AGM on 12 May at 7.30 pm in the cricket club. There will be a free drink for all those attending and Keith Haslett will make a presentation of our 5 year development plan during the meeting.

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:: North Down finish Runners Up

By robin mitchell
28/04/2009

North Down completed their league programme with a comfortable 3-0 victory at Portadown on Tuesday evening.No official umpires turned up and an official from each team had to stand in.Both sets of players should be commended for excepting and not challenging the umpires decisions.
North Down finished runners up in the league with a total of 52 points from 22 games played..Including cup competions they played 35 games winning 25 ,drawing 2,and losing 8.,a record which would please most but coaches Johnston and Davis were disappointed that at least a playoff was not secured with Kilkeel for promotion to the Premier League.
The first half was played at a quick pace with both sides putting pressure on the others defence.It was North Down who were the more clinical in the circle and top marksman Andy Forrest put them in the lead when he slapped a cross from McKeown into the roof of the net.Shortly afterward Forrest finished of a fine move involving Willis and McKeown.
The second period was dominated by North Down and it was no surprise when Forrest added number three after being put through by brother Mark.They had other chances to score but keeper Knipe made fine saves from Willis and Mark Forrest.Andy Forrest had a chance to add number 4 when he was set up at a corner but he mishit his effort.
Andy Forrest played in all 35 games scoring an incredible 63 goals,an all time club record.His goal tally included 11 hattricks.Congradulations Andy.

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:: HOCKEY SPECIAL ON RTE2 TONIGHT

By Jim Patterson
27/04/2009

If you have access to RTE2 there is a one hour hockey special tonight at 7.00 pm with coverage of yesterday's ESB and Men's Irish Senior Cup finals.

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:: North Down exit Anderson Cup

By robin mitchell
25/04/2009

North Down travelled to Hillsborough on Saturday to play Lisnagarvey in the quarter final of the Anderson Cup.In an evenly contested game Garvey ran out winners by 6 goals to two ,a scoreline which did not reflect the play.The main difference between the teams was that Garvey were more clinical in both circles.
Garvey took the lead after 9 minutes when poor marking in the North Down defence allowed the attacker to flick home.One minute later and North Down were level.The Forrest brothers and Bailie combined to leave Mark a simple tap in.Garvey won a corner on 15 minutes which was cleared and North Down broke quickly out of defence McKeowns cross was deflected past the keeper by Andy Forrest.North Down were now in the ascendancy and Garvey were struggling to create any chances.With 6 minutes of the half remaining North Down failed to clear their lines and Garvey pounced to equalise.
North Down began the second period in determined mood and put the Garvey goal under pressure.They had chances but players were guilty of taking the wrong option.Midway through the half Garvey took control with 3 goals in 5 minutes.Garvey won a free and the cross came of a foot giving them a short corner which was dispatched into the net.Then 2 goals in as many minutes when defenders failed to make clearances or get in tackles.
Most teams would have capitulated at this stage but to their credit North Down kept going and created chances.Andy Forrest tried to score from an impossible angle after making a good run along the byline,with teammates betterpositioned.He then was fouled when about to shoot.The umpire awarded a corner when most spectators thought a penalty should have been awarded.North Down worked the ball from the corner and Forrests deflection seemed to have crossed the line but play was waved on.Speers saw a reverse fly over the bar and then in an excellent move between Bailie and Wright the final ball from Bailie was just played behind Wright and the chance was gone.With the last hit of the game Garvey got their sixth with the visitors defence at sixes and sevens.
A much improved performance and one which hopefully will be taken into the final league game with Portadown on Tuesday.A win or draw in this game should secure second place in the league

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:: Girls U14 training Cancelled

By LC
24/04/2009

Tonights U14 training has been cancelled. Please keep looking at the website for information on when the next training session will be. Sorry for any inconvenience.

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:: Shock Result at Lisburn

By robin mitchell
23/04/2009

Heartened by the fact that league leaders Kilkeel had dropped 2 points the previous evening North Down travelled to Lisburn to play South Antrim knowing that a victory would mean that the league title would be decided next week when both sides complete their fixtures.
However things did not go to plan and North Down were defeated 3-2 and in the process presented Kilkeel with the title.On the night they got their just reward giving their worst performance of the season against one of the lesser teams in the league.
North Down got the perfect start when Andy Forrest converted a short corner after 2 minutes.But 3 minutes later a bad defensive error allowed South to equalise.This unsettled North Down and it was no surprise when South took the lead after 15 minutes following another defensive error.North Down did create chances put poor finishing left the scoreline 1-2 at half time.
The second half began more positively and Andy Forrest equalised at the second attempt after the keeper had parried his initial shot.It was now all North Down and Mark Forrest played a great ball through to McKeown but his control let him down and the chance was gone.Speers then shot wide from a short corner.Mark Forrest found himself in on goal but blasted straight at the keeper..Against ther run of play South took the lead when a simple strike at a short corner evaded all defenders and ended up in goal.North Down lost their composure after this and failed to put the South goal under any pressure.McKeown received his second yellow for an infringement and got his marching orders.As the game almost got out of control the umpires had to speak to both captains in an effort to calm things down.The game ended with North Down wondering where it all went wrong.
The coaches will have to work hard to lift the players for the game against Garvey on Saturday but will have the services of McGimpsey,Willis and Baird for this game.

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:: SHIELDS SCORING STREAK COMES TO AN END

By JP
22/04/2009

Failure to score in last night's 5th XI Minor Cup Final victory over Instonians 4ths has finally brought Peter Shields' record breaking goal scoring run to an end. In 19 consecutive games played from 8 November till 8 April, 15 for the 5ths and 4 for the 3rds, Peter scored in every match beating the previous best of 15 set by Andy Forrest earlier in the season.

The all-time table now stands as:

Richard Glover 222
Peter Shields 215
Jim Sloan 210

- - - - - - - - - - * * * * * * * - - - - - - - - - -

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:: 5ths win Minor Cup

By robin mitchell
21/04/2009

The fifth eleven defeated Instonians 4ths 3-2 in the final of the Minor Cup at Deramore on Wednesday evening.
In front of a large crowd the fifths opened strongly with Johnston Shields and Moreland dominating midfield.Shields was unlucky not to score early on.After making a fine run he saw his shot come back of a post.Wishart had a chance but was quickly closed down and his shot was blocked.
North Down took the lead after 15 minutes.Shields took a quick free and found Johnston unmarked in the circle and he calmly shot home..They increased their lead after 32 minutes.Pyper and Haire worked the ball down the right and crossed for Mccaughey to score.
Inst came out in the second half with all guns blazing and within 10 minutes the scores were level.Their first came after 5 minutes when a free was deflected past a bemused Graham in goal. And their second minutes later when a cross from the left was slotted into the net.Inst then hit the post with keeper Graham beaten..North Down slowly but surely got control back and started to create chances.From a short corner Wishart had a great chance to score but he scuffed his shot.With 10 minutes remaining Moreland made a fine run into the circle and shot past the advancing keeper.His celebration brought back memories of his fathers celebrations when the fifths last won a trophy but big Ray was quite definite that his had not been surpassed In the dying minutes Wilson who had a fine game saw his reverse shot fly narrowly past the post.The umpires blew for full time to the delight of the North Down supporters with the score North Down 3 Instonians 2.

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:: U15 Training Recommences

By P Whyte
20/04/2009

Just a rminder to all the U15's that training recommences this evening after the Easter break. With the cup final rapidly approaching a full attendance is expected.

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:: North Down defeat Harlequins

By robin mitchell
18/04/2009

North Down close in on League Leaders

North Down closed the gap on league leaders Kilkeel to 2 points on Saturday when they defeated Harlequins 3-1 at Deramore.
Played in summer conditions both teams tried to play constructive hockey.North Down dominated most of the first half with good attacking hockey but failed to put the game beyond their opponents with some inept finishing.
North Down took the lead after 8 minutes when Chris Speers made a strong run in midfield winning a short corner.His initial shot was saved but Bailie was on hand to score the rebound.Kelly in the Harlequins goal was quick of his line to smother efforts from Mark Forrest and Bailie.Bailie got his second goal after 15 minutes when he was in the right place to finish of a smart move involving Magee.Just before halftime Wright made a fine goalline clearance from Andersons short corner flick.
North Down lost their way in the second period and Harlequins had their fair share of play.With 58 minutes gone a poor tackle on Steele lead to a short corner which was dispatched into the net by Anderson.With Harlequins pushing for the equaliser North Down broke out of defence and in the best move of the half involving Speers and McKeown Magee made the points safe when he flicked home from mid circle.With 5 minutes remaining Baird received a yellow card for a poor tackle but Harlequins were unable to take advantage of their extra man.

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:: Fifths Cup Final

By PW
17/04/2009

The fifths will complete another successful season when they play Instonians 4's in the Minor Cup Final on Tuesday night. The match will be at Deramore Park and has a 19.00 pass back. All support welcome.

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:: Last match for 2nd XI

By
16/04/2009

The final match for the 2nd XI against Banbridge III XI will be some time in and around the 25th April 2009. Details yet to be confirmed.

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:: Articles Found

By robin mitchell
15/04/2009

Following the conclusion of the Easter Tournament the following articles were found
Dita hockey stick
TK Max hockey stick
London Scool Of Economics Hoody
Purple T-Shirt

If any of these belong to you give me a ring 07774712389

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:: Change to Fixtures

By robin mitchell
14/04/2009

The 1st xi Anderson Cup game against Lisnagarvey has been postponed until Saturday 25th April.

The league game against Harlequins has been brought forward to this Saturday with a 1.00p.m.start at Deramore.

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:: FREE TO ENTER COMPETITION

By Statto
11/04/2009

See the guestbook for a FREE TO ENTER North Down competition!

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:: U14 Training Cancelled

By LC
10/04/2009

Tonights U14 training has been cancelled. There will be a session next week prior to a game next Sunday so full attendance is requested.

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:: North Down close in on League Leaders

By robin mitchell
08/04/2009

North Down closed the gap to 5 points on league leaders Kilkeel when they defeated Cliftonville 4-1 at Comber last Wednesday evening.North down must win their three remaining games and hope that Kilkeel slip up in their games.
North Down opened at a furious pace and were two goals up after six minutes.Ross Linter gave them the lead after 3 minutes when he drove into the circle and scooped the ball over the advancing keeper.Three minutes later Andy Forrest and Willis played a nice one two and Willis crossed for Mark Forrest to score.It looked as if the flood gates would open but North down took the foot of the pedal and failed to put the visitors defence under any intense pressure.After 20 minutes Andy forrest had a shot blocked but Willis was on hand to blast home.North Down became frustrated with their inability to increase the lead.Individually they took too much out of the ball and failed to use their teammates who might have been better placed.
Cliftonville stunned the home fans when they pulled a goal back five minutes into the second half.A harmless looking long ball was not dealt with by the home defence and an advancing forward got a deflection past McRoberts.North Down dominated most of the play without creating any clear cut chances.McKeown eventually increased the lead after 20 minutes when he unleashed an unstoppable reverse shot past the helpless keeper.Coach Johnston used the occasion to give young David Sheppard some pitch time and he showed what a useful asset he could be in the future.Twice his dragflicks from short corners went agonisingly past the post with the keeper well beaten.
North Downs next game is the Anderson Cup quarter final against Lisnagarvey.

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:: Fifiths Progress to Minor Cup Final

By PW
08/04/2009

By PW
08/04/2009

Last Saturday the fifths progressed to the final of the Minor Cup with an excellent victory over Cliftonville 2's.

North Down made a mockery of their underdogs tag from the start of the game as they dominated possession and played a fast passing game that Cliftonville could not cope with. The running of Andy Haire up front was prominent and the generally good North Down play rattled the home side early on. North Down missed a couple of chances but eventually took the lead their play deserved with a Peter Shields strike after twenty minutes. After this goal Cliftonville began to come into the game a bit more and Roger Graham had to be sharp on a couple of occassions to deny them. However North Down were still creating their own chances with the overlapping runs of Matthew Wilson, from right back, causing Cliftonville headaches. North Down were to regret these missed chances as Cliftonville scored from a short corner strike at the start of the second half.

However North Down did not panic and continued to play good, simple hockey. Still creating chances, it took a well worked short corner for North Down to regain the lead they deserved with Peter Shields getting his second of the game. Cliftonville threw everything they had at the North Down defence but good defending from Jamie McKee, Ryan Donaldson and Matthew Wilson marshalled by the veteran Terry Ritchie at sweeper meant that they had little in the way of chances. North Down got the two goal cushion they deserved when Marty Moreland crashed the ball into the back of the net from the top of the circle after excellent build up play.

This was an excellent performance from the fifths who will now go on to play Instonians in the Minor Cup final.

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:: North Down Progress in Anderson Cup

By robin mitchell
06/04/2009

North Down won their group in the Anderson Cup when they defeated Antrim 5-3 on Saturday and now play Lisnagarvey in the quarter finals on 18 April
.Antrim started the game at a fast pace and their determination showed they wanted revenge for last weeks cup defeat
.They won a short corner after 10 minutes and Maybin converted from a switch.North down had a let off after 25 minutes when Creighton skied a penalty flick over the bar although the flick was hotly disputed as the defenders were of the view that the shot had not come of a foot.Five minutes before half time McKeown played a great ball to Mark Forrest who crossed for brother Andy to score.With 2 minutes of the half remaining Antrim won a corner.The initial shot was well saved by McRoberts but McMeekin was on hand to blast home the rebound.
Coach Johnston gave the players a severe talking to at half time and they responded magnificently.Andy Forrest scored the goal of the season one minute into the half.He won the ball outside the 25,beat several defenders before blasting home an unstoppable reverse shot.Five minutes later Forrest completed his hattrick when he converted a penalty awarded after he had been taken out by the keeper at the top of the circle.North down increased their lead after 10 minutes.Mark Forrest played an intelligent overhead pass which found his brother clear in front of goal and he made no mistake.Two minutes later Forrest got his fifth.He cut out a pass from the back and beat the keeper from the edge of the circleAntrim began to lose their discipline and Mark Forrest was brutally taken out but the umpire took no action..With 15 minutes remaining McCullough pulled one back from a corner.North down had chances to further increase their lead but the Antrim defence held firm.The best chance fell to Andy Forrest but as he flicked goalwards a defender got back to clear his lines.A great second half display and another great display of clinical finishing from top marksman Andy Forrest

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:: U15 Training Cancelled

By P Whyte
06/04/2009

Tonights U15 training has been cancelled. The next session will be on 20 April

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:: ONLY DAYS LEFT TO REGISTER FOR FESTIVAL

By Alan McMaster
04/04/2009

Time is running out if you haven't contacted Alan McMaster to either enter a team at the last minute or get fixed up with a team. DO IT NOW!

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:: Dinner Dance

By robin mitchell
03/04/2009

We have had an excellent response for this years Dinner Dance.
Timetable is as follows:
Arrive La Mon 7.00p.m.
Food 7.30p.m.
Presentation of prizes 9.00p.m.
Disco 10.00p.m.

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:: Bereavement

By robin mitchell
03/04/2009

Everyone at the Club was saddened to hear of the death yesterday of Steven Magee,s sister, Lisa.and wishes to express their sympathy to Steven and his father John .Funeral arrangements will be announced later.

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:: FANTASY CUP AND LEAGUE DOUBLE FOR LAURA

By Fantasy League admin staff
01/04/2009

In a thrilling climax to the Club's first ever fantasy league, Laura Clarke's Abbey Albion just pipped Gavin Wilson's North Down All Star XI at the post with the results from last Saturday's games.

Laura led for two weeks in January but then slumped to 4th place and looked out of contention as statto Wilson's team having led for the first two months also dropped away only to stage a fight back. Peter Shields with Cricket Folk led the league at Christmas but suffered a serious demise in March to finish 6th. Likewise, Robin Mitchell's moorfield led for 4 weeks in February but faded in the final stretch as poor management meant that he had used up all his transfers.

The final top 5 table positions were:
1 Abbey Albion Laura Clarke 677 points
2 North Down All star XI Gavin Wilson 674 points
3 moorfield Robin Mitchell 659 points
4 The Rubber Duckies Karen Moore 657 points
5 Inter Yerma Gareth Bailie 651 points

Abbey Albion also won the Fantasy Cup to secure the double and the winning manager will be presented with her specially commissioned comemorative trophies at the Dinner Dance on Saturday night.

Thirty seven members took part in the competition including Richard McMillan who at the time was in Australia so next season let's see everyone enter a team.

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:: North Down get Revenge over Service

By robin mitchell
01/04/2009

In the local derby a late goal by Gareth Bailie gave North Down valuable points as they push to keep pressure on league leaders Kilkeel.With 4 games remaining they trail by 8 points but have a game in hand.
North Down had the better of the first half dictating most of the play.Andy Forrest gave them the lead after 5 minutes when he tucked a pass from Richard Willis past the keeper.They had numerous chances to increase the lead but poor decision making made it easy for the Service defence.With 3 minutes remaining to halftime and against the run of play Service were awarded a free.They took it quickly and Anderson ran in unattended to score.
The second half was a more even affair.Service took the lead when they were awarded a penalty stroke after the initial shot at a short corner was illegally stopped.After 15 minutes Magee played a clever overhead which was picked up by Forrest.He beat several defenders but just as he seemed to be loosing control unleashed an unstoppable reverse shot.A Stevie Magee reverse flashed wide and Service had a number of corners which were well defended as bothteams strove for the winner.
In the last minute Paddy Wright won the ball in midfield and his deflected cross found Bailie unmarked in front of goal and he smashed the ball high into the net. For a deserved winner.

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:: Ladies 5ths v Grosvenor 6ths

By Lynsey Catherwood
31/03/2009

North Down began their penultimate game at a much slower pace than in previous games leaving Grosvenor plenty of room to attack and putting the home team under pressure in the early minutes to result in the visitors taking an early 1-0 lead.

The first quarter of the match saw a less confident North Down team from the week before, with loose marking and untidy passing until they adapted their play for the gravel surface when following a few breaks from Johnson and Murray and great passing out right to Aimee Orr they retrieved the fight and passion evident in recent games.

Minutes later and North Down stepped it up a gear with Murray striking from the edge of circle to be popped in by Ashleigh Hamilton bringing it back to 1-1.

North Down kept the pressure on with the defence well controlled by Maxine Taylor and North Down continued at pace, creating opportunities that led to Aimee Orr sending another home to make it 2-1 at half time.

A more upbeat North Down team continued the 2nd half with the same fight and good standard of hockey with continued runs from Murray and Lynsey Catherwood sending balls into the circle that put the Grosvenor defence under pressure calling for their keeper to make several good saves.

North Down’s domination paid off with both Susie Johnston and player of the match Aimee Orr adding to the score line to bring it to 4-1 at full time. Once again fair umpiring from Sally Rogers helped to maintain the flow of open play throughout the game and the girls would like to thank her for being with them throughout the season.

North Down fifths have developed well this season proving how a balance of young and experienced players can complement each other and produce a strong capable side. They will want to keep this level of performance up now as they go into their last match of the season that could determine their first or second league position. Go for it girls

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:: More Irish Youth Honours

By PW
30/03/2009

Congratulations to Chloe Brown who has been selected for the Irish U16 team to play against Belgium in Dublin on 7,8 and 9 April. A well deserved honour for a very talented player. Well done from all at the club.

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:: FIRST ELEVEN LIFT IRISH TROPHY

By Robin Mitchell
30/03/2009

The men's 1st XI lifted their first ever all Ireland trophy after 113 years of trying when they overcame close rivals Antrim by the odd goal in an eleven goal thriller at University College, Dublin last Sunday.

After five minutes a miskick by the Antrim keeper at a short corner fell to Mark Forrest who hammered home the opening goal. Antrim hit back when they drove the ball in from the left but Conway cleared with Brownlees close on hand just about to tap in the equaliser. After 17 minutes at North Down’s second corner Chris Speers converted easily to put the Comber team two up. Two minutes later and Antrim were back in it when Brownlees latched onto a ball driven into the circle and deflected it home. North Down were back two goals up after 27 minutes when Andy Forrest slammed home the goal of the game from wide on the right to bring the large crowd to their feet.

Lack of concentration in the North Down defence 2 minutes later allowed Riley in on goal and McRoberts in nets brought him down to concede a penalty stroke which Creighton converted to bring their deficit back to one goal.

Bailie who was having an outstanding game won the ball in midfield and with open space in front of him, made a pass instead of going through and the chance was wasted to leave the half time score 3 – 2.

North Down had the ideal start to the second half when Bailie increased their lead after having been set up by Andy Forrest. Three minutes later Andy Forrest intercepted a hit out at the top of the circle and gave the keeper no chance making the score an apparently comfortable 5 – 2. After 10 minutes the Antrim fight back began when Maybin got onto the end of a free hit to reduce the deficit. Things got tighter for North Down as Antrim proceeded to win three short corners in a row which were handled perfectly by McRoberts but with 8 minutes remaining Antrim further reduced the deficit when McIlroy scored following a corner to make it 5 – 4. With 3 minutes remaining, with the best move of the game, McKeown found Willis in space on the right, he drew the keeper and gave Forrest a simple chance not only to complete his hattrick but to score his 50th goal of the season, a new North Down record.

However, within a minute Antrim again reduced the arrears when McDowell shot home from the edge of the circle but North Down managed to hold out for the last nervous minutes to secure a memorable victory.

Richard Willis received the inaugural Irish Hockey Trophy from Mrs Doreen Howe, President of the Irish Hockey Association in front of the large travelling support from both Comber and Antrim.

Meanwhile in other fixtures the third eleven had a comfortable 6 – 2 win in Comber over their visitors from Donegal, Raphoe 4ths, with the goals coming from Pyper 2, Shields 2, Revill and Shannon.

The fourth eleven narrowly lost 3 – 2 to Saintfield 2nds at Ards Leisure Centre, their goals coming from Jim Sloan and Johnny Moore.

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:: IMPORTANT REMINDER ABOUT BUS TO DUBLIN

By J Patterson
28/03/2009

All of those intending to be on the bus on Sunday morning for Dublin, don't forget that the clocks go forward an hour tonight. I'm thinking of running a sweep on how many people forget!

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:: U15's Make Ulster Cup Final

By P Whyte
28/03/2009

The U15 boys have made the final of their cup with a hard fought 1-0 victory over Banbridge last night in Banbridge.

Before the game a minutes silence was observed by both sides in memory of Jim Wilson.

The game started at a frenetic pace with the North Down defence under some pressure against an excellent Banbridge attack. However North Down kept composed at the back, well marshalled by Michael Black and Matthew Welsh, and looked dangerous on the break with Stephen Forrest prominent. North Down were doing well to keep the Banbridge danger man, Josh Moffat quiet mostly thanks to an excellent performance from captain, David Shepherd. North Downs coaches had asked their players to pressure the backline of Banbridge at hit outs and this paid dividends when Stephen Forrest picked up a loose path at the top of the circle and rifled the ball into the top right hand corner of the goal after twenty minutes. North Down played the remainder of the first half on the defensive but Banbridge were unable to penetrate the North Down circle.

The second half started with Banbridge on top and putting real pressure on the North Down circle. A number of short corners were won but excellent running out from David Shepherd and Matthew Welsh closed down the Banbridge options and keeper Tony Brown dealt superbly with any straight shots. At this stage there was real pressure on the North Down circle and the forwards were a little guilty of not relieving the pressure by winning frees when the ball was played forward to them. However what North Down were doing well was not allowing any Banbridge player time and space for a shot and mention must go to Jordan Linter who produced several amazing tackles. With time running out, and the nerves of the North Down supporters shredded, a short corner was awarded to Banbridge and from a rebound the ball was put in the back of the net. However the goal was disallowed after consultation between the umpires as the initial shot was too high. North Down then seen the game out to record a famous victory.

The boys would like to dedicate their victory to Jim Wilson, who would have been delighted with this victory, and it was great to see Philip play in the game and the rest of the family come down and show their support at this difficult time.

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:: Irish Honours

By PW
26/03/2009

Wee done to Paul Ritchie who has been selected for the Ireland U16 squad that will play a series of matches against Belgium on the weekend of 7/8/9 April at UCD in Dublin. All at the club wish you the best for this series and congratulate you on your success.

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:: U15 Boys in Cup Semi

By P Whyte
26/03/2009

On Friday night the U15 boys will play Banbridge in the semi-final of the U15 cup in Banbridge. The U15's reached this stage by beating Raphoe 6-0 and Instonians 8-0. This should be an excellent game of hockey and all support would be welcome. Pass back at 19.00.

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:: Bus Trip - Final Details

By P Whyte
24/03/2009

The bus for the Irish Trophy final is now fully booked. We will meet at Comber Square at 8.45 am on Sunday morning returning to Comber some time between 10.00 and 10.30pm. The bus is fully booked and i do have people on a reserve list so if you are not going to attend please contact me so your seat can go to someone else.

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:: Kilkeel Win top of the table clash

By Robin Mitchell
24/03/2009

In a game vital to both teams promotion chances it was Kilkeel who came out in top in an exciting game with lots of good hockey and some basic errors.
North Down were quickest out of the blocks and won a corner after 3 minutes.Speers initial shot was saved but Andy Forrest was on hand to slot the rebound home.North Down were in control but a careless error by Conway allowed Kilkeel to equalise in the 10 minute.His attempted pass across the back went straight to a Kilkeel player at the top of the circle and he hammered the ball past McRoberts.Two minutes later they won a corner for feet.The shot was kept out of goal by McGimpseys feet and Kilkeel scored the resultant penalty.For the next 15 minutes Kilkeel dominated but then against the run of play Bailie equalised after being set up by Willis.On the stroke of half time Linter made a strong run into the Kilkeel half but was blocked by the keeper at the top of the circle.
At the start of the second half play swung from end to end.In the 10 minute Mark Forrest broke into the circle and squared the ball for brother Andy but the ball eluded him in front of goal.Kilkeel immediately broke to the other end and Coulter was allowed to run unchallenged and passed to a team mate who was unmarked in front of goal,leaving him a simple tap in Within two minutes North Down were again level.Top scorer Andy Forrest created space at the top of the circle and scored with a strong reverse shot.
McRoberts made some fine saves to keep his side in the game.from corners and open play.Andy Forrest received a yellow card for deliberate feet and Kilkeel immediately took advantage of the extra man.On 20 minutes Wright was caught in possession and the ball was quickly transferred across the circle for Kilkeel to take the lead.Speers just back from injury retired from the game and North Down lost their shape allowing Kilkeel to add two further goals in the last 5 minutes.
A disappointing result which almost ends any promotion hopes for North Down.
Coaches Johnston and Davis will have to motivate and lift the players for the Irish Trophy final in Dublin next Sunday.

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:: Wednesday Night Training Update

By C Whyte
24/03/2009

There will be no training for the ladies club tomorrow evening as the ladies seconds have a match. All support welcome. On the mens front the junior club sessions have finished for the season on Wednesdays.

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:: Bus Trip to Dublin

By P Whyte
23/03/2009

The following people are confirmed as heading to Dublin this Sunday:

C Coey
P Whyte
C Whyte
K Haslett
K Haslett
A DaCosta
A Keith
I Keith
J Patterson
J Patterson
M Linter *4
K Moore
S Moore
N Ferris
M Ferris
P Shields
C Shields
M Moreland
D Moreland
J McKee
A Hamilton*2
E McGimpsey
E Grimason
A McLaughlin
C McMullan*3
D Rodgers
W Reid
C Revill*3
A Benson
G Bailie*2
L Clarke
J Edgar
J Bruce
S McGimpsey
D Shepherd*3
J Calvin*2

If your name is not on the list and you want to go please contact me as soon as possible as there are only five places left on the bus. If your name is on the list and you have not paid yet i would appreciate if you could do so as soon as possible. Money can be posted to 17 Mill Street, Comber BT23 5EG or just put it through the door. See you on Sunday.

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:: Change of time for U14 girls training

By LC
19/03/2009

Please note that the U14 training for girls this Friday, 20th March, will be from 6.00-7.00 rather than the usual time.

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:: Death of Jim Wilson

By
18/03/2009

All at the club were saddened and shocked to hear of the death of Jim Wilson yesterday. Jim played hockey at the club for many years and more recently was a frequent supporter at both youth and senior matches involving sons, Matthew and Philip. The club extends its sympathy to Joy, Matthew, Philip and Jessica and all the family circle.

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:: Victory over Portadown

By robin mitchell
18/03/2009

In order to record the Clubs sadness following the tragic death of Jim ( Bimbo )Wilson a minutes silence was held prior to the start of the game against Portadown
The game itself was a dull affair with Portadown happy to get players behind the ball and North Down struggling to break them down..North Down took the lead after 15 minutes .McKeown made a great run into the circle and was fouled.From the resultant corner Magee tucked the ball into the net.Steven Barr made a great run into the circle but his pull back evaded the strickers.Willis and Ritchie combined to set up a chance for Forrest but his effort went narrowly past.
The second half showed some improvement with McRoberts a spectator in goals.Ritchie flashed at a cross from the right and his effort went agonisingly past.Barr had a goal disallowed for an earlier infringement.Steven McGimpsey received a yellow card for a second offence.After 25 minutes Forrest won a corner and although his initial effort was saved Conway was on hand to sweep the ball home.Bailie who is not having a lot of luck in front of goal seemed to have scored but to everyones amazement the umpire disallowed the goal.With 5 minutes remaining Conway completed the scoring.He played an overhead into the circle which was not dealt with by the Portadown defence.Magees effort from the corner was saved but Conway was on hand to push home the rebound.

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:: MEN'S GOALSCORERS THIS SEASON

By Jim Patterson
17/03/2009

The top five Club goalscorers after last Saturday's games are:
1 Andy Forrest 45
2 Peter Shields 33
3 Stephen Magee 20
4 Mark Forrest 19
5 Sam Pyper 17

Meanwhile Peter Shields has crept under the radar unnoticed and has now scored in 15 consecutive matches equalling Andy Forrest's record set earlier in the season.

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:: UPDATE ON NORTH DOWN'S FANTASY HOCKEY LEAGUE

By Fantasy league admin staff
17/03/2009

With only 2 weeks left to go in the Fantasy Hockey League it's close at the top with 4 managers battling for the top 3 prize positions.

1 Cricket Folk - Peter Shields 598 points
2 North Down All Star XI - Gavin Wilson 593 points
3 moorfield - Robin Mitchell 592 points
4 Abbey Albion - Laura Clarke 585 points
5 The Rubber Duckies - Karen Moore 573 points

The competition finishes with the games on 28 March.

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:: Ladies 1sts lose out in penultimate game

By Hannah McKee
16/03/2009

Saturday was a day of missed opportunities and disappointment for North Down. The ladies firsts travelled to Jordanstown to play bottom of the league Greenisland. Having all ready been relegated, Greenisland had nothing to lose and all to win, and they started the game strongly. A break from the Greenisland forwards caught the North Down defence sleeping and gave the underdogs the lead. Rattled by the shaky start North Down fought back and began to play some nice passing hockey, with Becca Bill in the centre distributing the ball well. However, fate was against them with the Greenisland keeper pulling off an outstanding triple save to deny them in a goalmouth scramble. Against the run of play Greenisland scored goal number two after North Down's indecision in defence.

The second half saw a revived North Down side come to life, dominating play. Young Amy Benson on the left wing used her skills on the ball and speed to generate problems for the Greenisland defence. North Down fought hard to keep a deflected shot from Andrea Mockford in play, but after a few worked passed Lynsey Stevenson got the last touch to shoot home the ball from the penalty spot. North Down continued to dominate the game winning endless penalty corners but they were unable to capitalise on any opportunity. Greenisland’s desperate defence measures saw a penalty flick awarded to the Comber girls after a players foot stopping the ball on the line. Hilary West stepped up and confidently placed the flick to equalise the game.

The remaining ten minutes of play saw some exciting hockey. Chloe Brown and Hilary West linked up well on the left and continued to drive the North Down team forward, but once again the Comber girls could not capitalise. Greenisland broke free and managed to scrap home a goal to win the game.

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:: North Down lose Nine Goal Thriller

By robin mitchell
15/03/2009

On Saturday at Antrim North Down lost out to Antrim in a nine goal thriller after having been two goals in front on two occasions
North Down had most of the play in the first half and it was no surprise when Willis gave them the lead after 10 minutes.Mark Forrest played an aerial ball which was collected by brother Andy who crossed for Willis to squeeze home.North Down almost increased their lead minutes later but Bailie was unlucky to see his deflected effort from Forrests free go narrowly past.The Antrim keeper made a good save from Magees effort from the only corner of the half.With 4 minutes of the half remaining North Down doubled their lead.Willis won the ball in midfield.He quickly released McKeown who found Forrest and his goal bound effort hit a defenders foot.From the resultant penalty Forrest made no mistake.Three minutes into injury time at the end of the first half North Down made their first mistake.Baird misjudged an overhead pass and when Brownlees crossed he found Riley completely unmarked at the far post and he had no difficulty in beating McRoberts.
This gave Antrim some hope and they came out at the start of the second period with all guns blazing.They won 3 corners in quick succession and after 3 minutes McMeekin put them back on level terms..North Down were rattled at this stage but cool play from Mckeown temporarily settled the nerves.A quick free found Forrest who had made a clever run to find space in the circle and he hammered home after 10 minutes.Three minutes later the North Down faithful thought the game was over when Forrest scored a superb effort after being released by McKeown.However antrim had other ideas and they bossed the remainder of the game.Slack defending allowed Antrim to win a series of corners and Creighton equalised after scoring with two efforts in the 13 and 20th minutes.Brownlees clinched victory for Antrim when he was able to find space at the top of the circle and hammer a reverse shot past McRoberts.North Down won 2 corners in the last minutes but their efforts did not trouble the Antrim keeper.
North Down will be hoping to reverse this result when the two teams meet in the final of the Irish Trophy in Dublin in 2 weeks time..

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:: Bus Trip to Irish Trophy Final

By P Whyte
13/03/2009

Irish Trophy Final and Ulster Rugby Match

As most people should hopefully know the mens first eleven have made it to the final of the Irish Trophy. The match will be played at UCD in Dublin on Sunday 29 March. If there is enough interest the club plan to run a bus to the final. On the same day Ulster will play Leinster in Magners League rugby at the RDS and to make it a day of great sport we plan to go to this as well.

The itnierary of the day would run as follows:

09.00 Pick up in Comber
12.00 Arrive at UCD
16:00 Leave UCD for RDS
17:30 Rugby
19:30 Leave RDS for Comber

Depending on the numbers the cost will be from Ł10 to Ł15 with the price reducing as the numbers increase. For those not interested in the rugby there are a lot of pubs etc around the RDS and its only fifteen minutes to Dublin city centre. Tickets for the rugby would be up to yourself to organise.

If you are interested in going please contact Peter Whyte by text on 07775576693 or by email to whytey111@btinternet.com or leave a message on the website guestbook.

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:: Irish Honours for Lauren Day... at rugby!!!

By PW
12/03/2009

Congratulations to Lauren Day who has been selected to play for the Irish rugby womans team in the six nations game against Scotland this Friday. This will be Laurens first cap and all the club congratulates Lauren on a meteoric rise as she only began playing rugby two years ago. However Lauren its time to forget about these lesser sports and get back to the hockey.

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:: FIRST ELEVEN DROP POINTS AGAINST HARLEQUINS

By Stand in 1st XI reporter
11/03/2009

The 1st XI were held to a 1 - 1 home draw against Belfast Harlequins on Wednesday night in a Senior League 1 match. Although this result still leaves them at the top of the league it was a set back to their hopes of promotion to the Premier League.

Harlequins started well and were ahead after two minutes. A misplaced pass from defence was intercepted by the visitors and North Down gave away a short corner which was driven hard into the back boards by Nigel Mills.

Harlequins sat on their lead for all of the first half and concentrated on denying North Down possession in the last third of the pitch. With Chris Speers and Stephen Magee both absent through injury and Stephen Barr though new paternity duties there was a lack of guile in the home midfield to create sufficient openings in the massed Harlequins defence and half time arrived without the Harlequins keeper being seriously troubled.

The introduction of Mathew Baird into defence after half time released Ian McKeown into a more attacking role and this tactictal move paid off within three minutes as Andy Forrest added to his ever increasing tally of goals by slotting home following a goalmouth melee to bring the scores level.

Harlequins rarely threatened after this but despite at least a double figures number of short corners the score remained tantalisingly tied and the first eleven finished with their first home draw of the season.

Another difficult tie with Antrim is due on Saturday and the firsts will have to switch on the turbo boost button.

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:: Mens Training 11/03/09

By PW
10/03/2009

Please note that due to the mens firsts playing Belfast Harlequins on Wednesday there will be no mens training.

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:: Congratulations

By PW
10/03/2009

Congratulations to Steven and Joanne Barr on the birth of son, Thomas James. Mother, baby and Steven doing well.

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:: DATE CHANGE - IRISH HOCKEY TROPHY FINAL

By Jim Patterson
10/03/2009

The final will be played at UCD, Dublin on Sunday 29 March NOT 28 March as previously reported. The probable start time is 1.00 pm.

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:: FIRST ELEVEN THROUGH TO IRISH HOCKEY TROPHY FINAL

By Jim Patterson
09/03/2009

The men's 1st XI progressed to the final of the inaugural Irish Hockey Trophy by defeating Catholic Institute of Limerick by 4 – 0 last Saturday in Comber. Their opponents in the final in Dublin on 28 March will be Antrim who were the somewhat surprise victors over favourites Civil Service.

The difference of four goals suggests a comfortable victory and indeed North Down never really got out of third gear but it was a generally below par performance from the Senior 1 league leaders and they could well have struggled against a stronger side.

The visitors were first out of the blocks and could easily have been two goals ahead in the first 10 minutes but, if his defensive colleagues were slow to get going, luckily for them Alex McRoberts was alert and his two fine saves alerted North Down to the fact that this wasn’t going to be a walkover.

Gradually the home team rose to the occasion and after 21 minutes went ahead through Mark Forrest when, following a mazy run, the ball broke loose in the circle and Mark was on hand to drive the ball into the net. North Down remained largely in control for the remainder of the half with Ian McKeown in particular both mystifying the opposition and entertaining the home crowd with his close ball control.

Both Forrest brothers combined well at the start of the second half to conjure up the second goal with some good inter passing and deft footwork which ended with Andy smashing the ball into the roof of the net. Shortly afterwards Andy added his second and the team’s third when the ball broke to him following a short corner and he placed his shot skilfully through the keeper’s pads. Afterwards some of his team mates rather uncharitably described this as a miss hit but Andy remained adamant as to his deliberate intent.

With the game essentially lost at this stage, Catholic Institute resolved merely to keep the score to reasonable proportions and McRoberts in goal assumed a spectator’s role as the game was played out. Richard Willis completed the scoring near the end when, following a good move across the pitch, he drilled an unstoppable shot past the visiting keeper into the bottom left hand corner.

So, North Down have progressed to their first major cup final since arguably the Kirk Cup final in 1944 but they will have to find fourth gear if they are to come back with the silverware. As usually happens when the fixture list is put together, North Down travel to play Antrim this Saturday in a vital league fixture and in fact are also scheduled to meet Antrim in an Anderson Cup game on the Saturday after the Irish Hockey Trophy final.

SECONDS IMPRESS BUT LOSE AGAIN

The 2nd XI are now all but mathematically relegated from Junior League One after going down by 4 –1 to top junior outfit Instonians 2nds but conversely they played one of their best games of the season against a very strong Instonians side.

The seconds held their own throughout the first half and were unlucky to go in a goal down at half time. Inst added a second from a short corner after 42 minutes and then scored a further two goals whilst North Down were temporarily down to ten men. Colin Mockford brought some semblance of reality to the scoreline when he scored from a short corner with 10 minutes to go but the defeat leaves the second eleven needing to win their last three games to have any chance of staying up.

The thirds travelled to play Armagh 2nds expecting a close game as the home fixture earlier in the season had ended in a 1 – 1 draw. However, that they went down 10 – 0 must surely be linked in some way with the fact that Armagh 1st XI were without a league fixture last Saturday.

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:: Boys U12 Tournament

By P Whyte
09/03/2009

On Sunday the boys U12's played their last tournament of the year at their home venue of Comber.

The home teams first game was against a good Civil Service side and North Down got of to their traditonal slow start. However they managed to secure a 1-0 victory that their territirial possession merited. In their next game the boys faced Instonians and performed excellently to win the game 2-0. The boys were beginning to produce good passing hockey with good combinations between the hard working Jonny Linter and Adam Mcallister creating problems for the opposition.

Next up for North Down was Stormont and the boys dominated this game form the start but could not apply the finishing touch to some good build up play until a tree goal blast at the end of the game led to a 3-0 win. The boys then moved on to face an Intermalone side who had played some excellent hockey. However North Down continued to play well and again won 3-0.

North Downs last game was against a strong Banbridge side and keeper Roger Mottram and sweeper Ally Hunter had to be on top form to cope with early pressure for Banbridge. Eventually the pressure told and banbridge threatened North Downs 100% record. Hoiwever with two minutes remaining North Down won a free at the edge of the circle and an ensuing goal mouth scramble saw North Down score and the score remained 1-1 to the end of the game.

This was an excellent tournament for the boys and the hard work that has been put in at training by coaches keith Conway and Ross linter is beginning to pay off.

North Down squad: Roger Mottram, Ally Hunter, Bryn Walker, Jack Irwin, Ethan Fleck, Jonny Linter, Josh Gilmore, Adam McAllister

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:: BEERTASTING EVENING POSTPONED

By Jim Patterson
06/03/2009

The General Committee last night decided to postpone the beertasting evening until next season as the date picked is too close to the Dinner Dance and Easter Tournament dates.

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:: SATURDAY'S BIG MATCH PREVIEW

By Robin Mitchell
05/03/2009

The men's 1st XI play Catholic Institute from Limerick this Saturday in the semi-final of the new Irish Hockey Trophy. Tip off is at 2.30 pm at Enler Park.

Catholic Institute have qualified for this stage of the competition by beating Weston 3 - 0 and Suttonians 2 - 0, both games away from home. North Down beat Queens 2 - 1 at home and South Antrim 3 - 1 away.

We have only ever played Catholic Institute once before and that was in a home Irish Cup tie in January 1998 when the result was 7 - 0 in our favour with the goals coming from Peter Shields 2, Timmy Fletcher 2, Johnny Boyd 2 and Timmy Linter.

The weather forecast for Saturday is good at the moment so come along and support your team!

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:: Ladies' firsts lose out in second student encounter

By Fiona Ellis
03/03/2009

Saturday saw the first of two long awaited encounters with Queens.

There was much expectation on the North Down 1st XI ladies side as they had managed to get themselves in a strong position to vie for a top three place in the league - a win being essential to help achieve this. Unfortunately North Down had a poor start, an intercepted ball on the half way found North Down sleeping, and an energetic Queens side had their first goal within the first couple of minutes. They kept up the momentum and not long after scored their second from a penalty corner.

Towards the end of the first half North Down were able to pull back a goal. Good work from a long corner by Hilary West and Chloe Brown, lead to a threatening ball in front of the keeper, which was expertly put away by Lynsey Stevenson. North Down put the pressure on Queens towards the end of the half and Hilary West was only denied by the cross bar.

North Down had a shaky start to the second half and gave far too much hard won ball straight back to the opposition. This saw Queens capitalise and get another two goals in quick succession; the first from open play and the last from a penalty corner.

Throughout the match Rebecca Bill, player of the match, worked tirelessly from the centre to break play down and try and break through their defence and penalty corners ensured. One saw strong interplay between Hilary West and Lyne Greenwood; leading to a goal by Lyne. North Down continued their run of penalty corners and dominated but Queens did well to retain composure and unfortunately North Down were unable to convert the pressure into goals.

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:: Ladies' 5ths take on league leaders

By Claire Whyte
03/03/2009

North Down played Mossley away at UUJ on Friday night as both teams battle for the top of the table in their remaining league fixtures.

The first half saw Ashleigh Hamilton’s debut in goals for the fifths and although the new keeper saw little action due to the steady work of the visiting defence she should be pleased with her performance.

Mossley opened the scoring after 10 minutes of play in a half which produced good end to end hockey but few chances at goal from either side.

Following a half-time team talk that touched on close marking, going wide and most importantly the ever more common exclamation of “What? No oranges?”, the North Down girls set out determined to take something from the game.

The second half saw the North Down team take control of the game but frustratingly for the forwards numerous ventures into the opposing circle failed to end in a score.

Both player of the match Helen McGaughey and Laura Murray attempted to make their experience show for the North Down team with brilliant runs only to be thwarted by some last ditch defending.

Minutes from the end North Down were still pushing forward and a pass from Stephanie Brown saw Suzi Johnston get the goal they deserved and the North girls returned home with a 1:1 draw.

This was a solid team performance helped by great umpiring and the girls would like to thank Jim Sloan for umpiring.

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:: BIG BIG BIRTHDAY FOR TWINKLE

By Social and Culture Secretary
02/03/2009

Well, we never thought that she would make it but Twinkle, that's Heather Thompson to younger members, has made it to a landmark birthday of the same vintage as Grass Harper's recent date.

Rumour has it that she dearly wanted to blow out the candles on the cake but was driven back by the heat from the flames!

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:: North Down complete the Double

By robin mitchell
02/03/2009

North Down complete Double over Ballynahinch

North Down having won convincingly in the Anderson Cup midweek against Ballynahinch welcomed the same opposition to the Leisure Centre on Saturday for a league game.The game followed a similar pattern with North Down struggling to break down a resolute Hinch defence in the first half and then running riot in the second period.
North down opened the scoring after 15 minutes when Speers played an overhead pass that was not cleared and from the resultant corner Speers scored.North Down had a goal disallowed ,the umpire blew too quickly and awarded a corner instead.Then after 27 minutes good play by Forrest created a corner which Magee converted.
Just before halftime Bailie had a shot saved but the effort hit a foot and a penalty was awarded.Forrest expertly converted.
In the second period North Down had numerous chances to increase the lead but poor finishing allowed Hinch to keep their goal intact.However in the 15th minute the flood gates opened.Linter accepted a pass from Magee and blasted the ball home.Three minutes later Mark Forrest deflected a Conway free into the roof of the net.Andy Forrest added number six two minutes later.McRoberts had to be on his toes to make a smart save ,the only one in the two games.After 28 minutes Magee scored from a corner.With three minutes remaining Magge set up a chance for Wright and although suffering from nose bleed he scored his first goal for the Club when he flicked into the net.Magee completed his hattrick when he scored another corner with 2 minutes remaining and then Forrest completed the rout and his hattrick from a corner variation in the final minute.

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:: ANOTHER RECORD FOR ANDY!

By Jim Patterson
28/02/2009

With his 7th hat trick of the season yesterday against Ballynahinch Andy Forrest has improved on his own record for goals scored in a season. He now stands at 39 already one better than last year.

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:: Anderson Cup Victory

By robin mitchell
26/02/2009

North Down entertained Ballynahinch in an Anderson Cup game at the Leisure Centre on Wednesday evening.They kept their hopes alive of qualifying for the knock out stages.A win against Antrim in the final game will put them through.
Although North Down had the territorial advantage a resolute Hinch defence kept the eager North Down forwards at bay for long periods.Speers opened the scoring after 12 minutes with a flick past the keeper after receiving a pass from Linter.With 3 minutes to half time North Down were awarded a flick following a short corner and Mark Forrest converted.
The second half was a different story.North Downs fitness began to show and the goals began to flow.Steven Magee scored from a corner after 15 minutes and 2 minutes later added another with a strong drive from the edge of the circle.Andy Forrest who had earlier been frustrated eventually got on the scoresheet with 2 reverse stick shots.Mark scored number with a fierce drive.Speers added his second from a short corner .Andy Forrest completed the scoring when he secured his hattrick following another corner.
Hinch again provide the opposition on Saturday in the league and coach Johnston will be looking for an improved performance as his side prepare for the Irish Trophy semi-final aginst Catholic Institute.

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:: Another Milestone for Grass harper

By robin mitchell
26/02/2009

Congradulations to George Harper on reaching his 60th birthday.Still as fit as ever Grass will be turning out for the 5ths on Saturday.Well done G. and welcome to the clan.

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:: Ladies 2nds lose out in league double pointer

By ADC
26/02/2009

North Down took on Pegasus 2nds last night at the Dub, playing for double points in an effort to clear the backlog in Junior 1.

Displaying the perfect balance of experience and youth, age and beauty, the Comber girls started well by creating some excellent passing play. Pegasus attacked fiercely down the right, however were prevented from producing much past the circle by some great defensive pressure by Kathryn Mullin. Mullin, who has been outstanding in her appearances at sweeper for the 2nds this season, used her widely-feared dead ball strike to push the play up into the Pegasus half.

Pegasus seemed little like the side that has stayed at the top of the Junior leagues for so many years, and created little by way of opportunities from open play, edging it only as a result of the visitors’ mistakes. Their penalty corner routine, however, was flawless, which was demonstrated when a collision over a loose ball resulted in a corner which was expertly tapped-in at the back post. The half-time score 1-0 to the home side.

As has become customary, captain Julie Fisher rallied her troops with some straight talking at half-time, and North Down produced some of the best hockey they have played all season. Bloomfield schoolgirls Eve Grimason, Lousie Speers, Amy Benson and Ashleigh McLaughlin demonstrated their special bond with some impressive sequences up the right, with Marion Parker putting on a fine display for the visiting crowd up front. It was a battle between the Regent House staff in midfield; Kathy Taylor teaching Heather McClurg a lesson or two, to the delight of their on looking pupils.

Resolve amongst the North Down camp began to fade with the controversial awarding of a penalty corner by the Pegasus umpire as Da Costa took ball and player with her in a save at the top of the circle, and again the corner was shot home in style. Another of the like followed suit after the defence were caught out by an impressive long ball. North Down fought back briefly and a penalty corner turned pinball-style knock around was definitively put to bed by JR. Pegasus had the last laugh however, rounding a tiring defence with ease to score their fourth of the night.

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:: FANTASY HOCKEY CUP FINAL RESULT

By Fantasy League admin staff
25/02/2009

Laura Clarke is our first fantasy hockey cup winner as Abbey Albion defeated Alan McMaster's Ale will prevail last Saturday by 21 points to 14!

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:: Mens Training 25/02/09

By PW
25/02/2009

Just a reminder of changes to the normal training arrangements tomorrow evening. The mens firsts will be playing Ballynahinch in an Anderson Cup game from 8.30 so there will be no training for the rest of the mens club. Why not come along and watch the firsts instead.

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:: Seconds v Banbridge 3rds

By robin mitchell
24/02/2009

The 2nds game against Banbridge 3rds at Banbridge on Saturday has been postponed

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:: Glenanne win Irish Cup Battle

By robin mitchell
24/02/2009

North Down Push Glenanne all the Way

North Down entertained one of the best sides in Irish hockey in the Irish Cup at the Leisure Centre on Saturday.They put up an excellent performance in front of a large crowd before going down by 3-1.
The match opened with Glenanne in the ascendancy but the North Down defence was solid.After 14 minutes a North Down attack broke down and Butler played an overhead from his own circle which carried into the North Down 25.The defence was caught too far upfield and Kane ran in unopposed to score.Five minutes later a mistake by Conway who otherwise had a sound game gave the ball away and Kane was on hand to get his second with a reverse.shot.
North Down began to grow in confidence and the Forrest brothers combined to bring a fine save from the visitors keeper.McKeown then played a superb overhead for Wright but unfortunately he shot wide.Forrest had a great chance to pull one back when he broke clear and had a 1v1 with the keeper but the keeper made the save at the edge of the circle.With 2 minutes remaining to half time Glenanne were awarded a corner for feet and Butlers goalbound effort hit a foot on the line.Butler stepped up to convert from the spot.Glenanne won their third corner on the stroke of halftime but Butlers effort was cleared.
North Down came out in the second period determined to make a game of it. And an early effort from Forrest was deflected wide.At the other end a rebound from the keepers pads was slotted home but the umpire disallowed it for obstruction.Butler hit the post with a vicious short corner and then Wright cleared a corner of the line.After 10 minutes Magee played a great crossfield ball which found Mark Forrest.He shrugged of his marker and slammed the ball into the net.North Down now put Glenanne under pressure and the keeper was called into action..Mark Forrest set up Linter and his piledriver was well saved.McKeown had a shot from the top of the circle which went wide.Speers had 2 efforts from short corners deflected past the post by the keeper and.Just before the end Bailie had a shot saved.
A fine performance against a good Glenanne side who have ambition to go on and win the Cup.Coach Johnston will look for similar effort and commitment in the remaining league games.

Mixed Fortunes for other teams

Seconds v Bangor

The seconds were defeated 4-1 by Bangor in the McClements Cup.Magee scored for the locals

Thirds v Mossley

The thirds defeated Mossley in the first round of theUlster Junoir Shield by 2-1 after extra time.Goals were scored by Shields and Dalzell.They now play PSNI in the next round

Fourths v Cliftonville

The fourths were soundly beaten by a strong Cliftonville team in the first round of the minor cup by 7-0

Fifths v Banbridge

The fifths knocked out the holders in the first round of the minor cup.They travelled to Banbridge and won by 2-1 with Shields getting both goals.

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:: Elks prove too strong for North Down

By Hannah McKee
23/02/2009

North Down faced the toughest match of the season on Saturday against the already clear league winners the Ulster Elks.

In previous encounters the Elks had shown their goal scoring capability when given space to run. North Down knew it was vital to close down the full-strength Elks side from the start.

The girls worked tirelessly throughout the first half, managing to break down play and disrupt the Elks’ game. The breakthrough came from Elks’ Irish international star Emma Clarke who tore through the North Down midfield before handing over to French international Philippine Berly who set up Ciara Magee in a clinical two-on-one encounter with the keeper . However the Comber girls continued to hassle their opponents. Some great play down the left from Hilary West and Chloe Brown lead to an increasingly frustrated Elks side. The half time score 1-0 to the Elks.

It became a game of two halves. The second half saw the North Down girls come under intense pressure from a rejuvenated Elks side, which came out to play some excellent, free-flowing hockey, demonstrating why they are being hailed as the third best team in the country. North Down’s resolve quickly began to waver, and the students capitalised through the superb Clarke, who pounced on the rebounds from Da Costa’s initial saves to notch up a hat-trick in the space of 20 minutes.

The Elks’ pace allowed them to outsmart their opponents with ease, however an athletic display from Lynsey Stevenson caused frequent upset, showing speed and stamina in her sweeping midfield role. An inconsistent Elks defence was peppered by Chloe Brown and Eve Grimason, and Becca Bill gave the faithful home crowd something to shout about when she broke through, only to be bettered by former North Down goalkeeper Dawn Millar.

North Down put up a credible defence, with Laura Clarke, Vicky Fry, Lyne Greenwood and Fiona Ellis keeping their composure. There were some nail-biting line clearances from Fry and Greenwood, and Da Costa put up a brave fight in goals to keep the score in single figures. The home side were outclassed by some fantastic finishing, Caroline Smith netting two for the Elks and Berly tying things up.

North Down Player of the Match was awarded jointly to Vicky Fry and Adrienne Da Costa.

Next week sees North Down meet a faltering Queens side twice in as many days as the Comber girls hang on in the fight for second place.

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:: ULSTER HOCKEY BLOG

By Jim Patterson
23/02/2009

Ulster has finally got a hockey blog although at the moment it looks like men only. To check out the new site go our LINKS and click on Ulster Hockey Blog.

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:: BIG DAY OF HOCKEY AHEAD

By Jim Patterson
20/02/2009

Tomorrow sees a big day of hockey at Comber Leisure Centre. Starting at 1.00 pm the ladies 1st XI take on league leaders Ulster Elks, then at 2.30 pm the men's 1st XI entertain high flying Dublin team Glenanne in the Irish Senior Cup and this is followed by the men's 2nd XI who play Bangor 3rds at 4.00 pm in the McClements Cup.

In total there are 7 home games tomorrow, check 'NEXT FIXTURES' on the home page for full details.

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:: Early weekend success for men's 3rd XI

By Early bird reporter
20/02/2009

The men's 3rd XI had a fine extra time Junior Shield victory away at Mossley 4ths tonight winning 2 - 1 with goals from Peter Shields and Stephen Dalzell. They are now at home to PSNI 2nds, whom they defeated 6 - 0 last week, in the second round of the competition. For a full match report, read Robin Mitchell's weekend summary on Sunday on this website!

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:: Fantasy League Cup Final

By Fantasy League admin staff
16/02/2009

Tension mounts as this Saturday sees our first ever North Down fantasy hockey cup final between Abbey Albion (Laura Clarke) and Ale will prevail (Alan McMaster). A special trophy has been commissioned for the winner and will not be revealed until presentation time at the Dinner Dance on 4 April at La Mon.

The last games to count for the league will be those on 28 March.

Can Laura do the double?

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:: Goals Galore

By robin mitchell
15/02/2009

Goal Rout at North Down

Although statto can not confirm it is suggested that last Saturday saw the most goals ever scored by North Down teams in a single week.37 goals were scored in 5 games with 9 being conceded.

Firsts v Armagh

North Down beat a poor Armagh side 13-1 at the Leisure Centre.In fact had it not been for their keeper who made a number of fine saves the score would have been much greater.
Mark Forrest completed his first hattrick for the Club.Thoughout the game his pace proved a threat to the visitors defence.
His first came after 15 minutes .Ritchie found Bailie in space and his inch perfect pass allowed Forrest to scoreA fine run three minutes before the interval saw him beat several defenders before shooting past the helpless keeper.He completed his hattrick 3 minutes into the second period .Bailie won a short corner and he blasted the ball home Bailie was provider on a number of occasions but he also managed a hattrick.He opened the scoring after 2 minutes.McKeown played an overhead down the line and Forrest crossed for Bailie to score from close in.5 minutes into the second half he scrambled the ball over the line and 3 minutes later McKeown was again the provider for a simple tap in.
After 4 minutes skipper Willis played a great 1-2 with Bailie before scoring.Armagh got back into the game when poor defending allowed them to win a penalty which was well tucked away.Andy Forrest got the first of his 4 goals when he scored at the third attempt following a corner.Forrest and McKeown combined on the right wing and McKeown found Conway unmarked at the top of the circle and he crashed the ball home.
15 minutes into the second period Mark Forrest played a diagonal over head pass which found Barr and his cross was superbly deflected home by Andy Forrest.North Down were reduced to 10 men when Wright received a yellow card..Just after this incident Andy Forrest got his third with a reverse shot from mid circle..With 7 minutes remaining Mark crossed for Speers to score.The Armagh keeper made a good double save to deny Speers and then Bailie .He repeated this act minutes later to deny Forrest and bailie.With 2 minutes remaining Andy Forrest completed the scoring when he flicked over the keeper.
A good team performance but greater concentration and commitment will have to be shown next week against Glenanne in the Irish Cup.

Seconds v Raphoe

The seconds travelled to Raphoe without seven regulars who were unavailable for different reasons.The young inexperienced side put up a fine performance before going down 6-1.Shannon scored the visitors goal.

Thirds v PSNI

Skipper Pyper returning to the side after injury completed a fine hattrick.Shields,Sheppard and Revill completed the rout in a 6 nil victory.

Fourths v Instonians

The fourths had a fine win over Instonians who were challenging the fifths for a promotion slot.Scorers were Sloan 2,Shannon,Moreland and Rodgers

Fifths v Newry

The fifths took advantage of the fourths result against Instonians and secured promotion with a convincing 12 nil victory against Newry. Scorers were Shields 5,Moreland 3,Wishart,Galway,Haire and Bond.

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:: Ladies 1st XI v Queens

By ADC
09/02/2009

The ladies Senior 1 game against Queens tonight is postponed due to the frozen pitches at The Dub. Training will still go ahead.

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:: Youth Games Update

By PW
08/02/2009

The U12 tournament and U15 game against Raphoe are cancelled due to the weather. Sorry for any inconvenience.

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:: Mens Fixtures

By robin mitchell
07/02/2009

All mens fixtures today have been postponed due to the frozen pitches

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:: Matches off

By ADC
07/02/2009

All womens fixtures have been postponed today due to the frozen pitch

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:: 3rd xi Cup Game

By robin mitchell
06/02/2009

The third eleven game tonight against Mossley has been postponed due to the condition of the pitch

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:: Casino Night

By Jim Patterson
06/02/2009

Just in case you needed reminding, it's a big night tomorrow night at the Casino Night. Dressing to impress is optional but you won't get a glass of the sparkly stuff on the way in if you turn up in your 70s shell suit or some such tacky equivalent. Ł5 entrance gets you your first set of chips and if and when they have gone, then just buy more, it's as simple as that!

7.30 pm at the cricket club.

You know it makes sense!

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:: Irish Cup V Glenanne

By robin mitchell
06/02/2009

The 2nd round Irish Cup game v Glenanne at Comber tomorrow has been postponed due to the inclement weather

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:: U14 Girls Training Cancelled

By LC
06/02/2009

Tonights U14 girls training has been cancelled due to a frozen pitch. Soory for any inconvenience

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:: Fixtures 31 January

By robin mitchell
03/02/2009

Armagh Unable to Field team

North Down were scheduled to play Armagh in a rearranged league fixture at Comber on Saturday but unfortunately suffered a number of late cry offs and were unable to field a side.North Down will be awarded the points and will keep the pressure on the other sides at the top of the league
It is hoped a large crowd will come and support the locals when they take on Leinster kingpins Glenanne in the Irish Cup at Comber on Saturday.Hit off 2.30.

Success for seconds

The seconds secured three vital points as they attempt to strive of relegation against fellow strugglers Kilkeel at Comber.Both teams played attractive hockey but it was North Down who created the chances.In fact the margin of success would have been greater had they taken these.After 10 minutes North Down were awarded a penalty and Bailies attempt from the spot was saved.Ritchie opened the scoring with a strong shot from the edge of the circle.Good play down the right and Shannon nipped in to score from an accurate cross.Kilkeel pulled one back from a well worked short corner.Ritchie restored the two goal advantage when he scored from a corner after the keeper had made an initial save.Kilkeel again pulled one back but Gray secured the points when he scored a good individual goal with 1o minutes remaining.

Thirds Draw

The thirds travelled to Harlequins gaining a valuable point following a three all draw.
The thirds were 2-1 down after 10 minutes but clawed their way back into the game through the craft and experience of veterans Gibson and Mockford.
Scotty Moore scored twice and David Sheppard added the third.This was quite a weekend for young Sheppard .He scored seven for the school team earlier in the day.

Fourths off

The fourths game against Saintfield was cancelled at Park Way due to the heavy rain

Fifths March on

The fifths travelled to Cookstown and defeated league leaders by 3-2.The fifths had a number of cry offs and introduced fifteen year olds Linter ,Drakeley,Moore and Campell to the fray.Moore scored twice and Shields added the third.This result leaves the fifths in second slot with two games to play.

Casino Night

It is hoped all members and friends will support the casino night in the clubhouse on Saturday night

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:: LATEST FROM NORTH DOWN'S FANTASY LEAGUE

By Jim Patterson
28/01/2009

Laura Clarke with Abbey Albion has finally reached top spot in the league with 405 points, one point ahead of Peter Shields with Cricket Folk and in third place on 372 points is Robin Mitchell with moorfield.

The semi finals of the fantasy cup were also decided last weekend and the two finalists are Laura Clarke, going for the double, and Alan McMaster with Ale will prevail. The final will be decided by the results of games played on 21 February.

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:: North Down lose top of table clash

By robin mitchell
27/01/2009

North Down travelled to Stormont on Saturday to play local rivals NICS.A win for North Down in this top of table clash would have given them some daylight between themselves and the chasing pack but a defeat would bring NICS and Kilkeel back into the race for honours with Antrim and Harlequins just a little further back.
It was Service who played the better hockey and deservedly won by 5-0.They closed North Down at every opportunity and never allowed them to get into a rhythm.
The first ten minutes was even as both sides probed for openings.North Down were first to threaten.A free in hit a service foot and a short corner was awarded.Speers goalbound effort was well saved by the Service keeper.At the other end Service attacked the circle and won a corner for obstruction.A well worked variation was deflected into the net by Grundy for the opening goal.Forrest had a good run but might have done better if he had passed to some of his colleagues who were free.
After 20 minutes Service were awarded a corner for a stick tackle .Although the initial shot was saved by McRoberts Johnston reacted quickest and scored the rebound..The game was basically over after 25 minutes when the umpire awarded a penalty. stroke to Service to the dismay of the North Down players.A high ball was played into the circle and although the forward took the ball above shoulder height the umpire allowed play to continue and then gave the stroke for a tackle by keeper McRoberts.Gill slotted the ball home.North Down were unable to create from open play and their only danger came from corners but unfortunately on a day when nothing seemed to go right the routine was poor.
Straight from the hit off at the start of the second period Service went on the attack and the North Down defence failed to get a tackle in and Johnston was allowed a free shot at goal which flew past McRoberts in goal.Play became scrappy after this and players from each side were yellow carded.Bailie was unlucky in front of goal when twice he deflected crosses just wide.With about 15 minutes remaining Speers got a yellow card for deliberately breaking down play. With 2 minutes remaining Gill won a short corner and again their routine was well executed with Gill slotting home.
All in all Service deserved to win.However it was not down to the brilliance of their performance but to the fact that North Down failed to turn up.

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:: MATCHES OFF

By Jim Patterson
24/01/2009

The men's 3rds and 4ths fixtures today are definitely OFF! Decisions are pending on the 2nd XI game at 2.30 pm at Enler and the 1st XI game at Stormont.

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:: UPDATE ON TODAY'S POSTPONEMENTS

By Jim Patterson
24/01/2009

The men's 2nd XI home game against Bangor 3rds and the ladies' 2nds game with Garvey 2nds are OFF due to a frozen pitch. The men's 1st XI game at Stormont is probably still ON pending a pitch inspection.

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:: Tricky conditions in Newry

By robin mitchell
19/01/2009

North Down travelled to Newry on Saturday knowing that this would be a difficult fixture but also one that they must win if they are to keep their promotion hopes alive.
Conditions were atrocious with wind and rain driving down the pitch.The Newry pitch has just been recently relaid and being very sandy was slow..All in all this led to a tricky fixture.
In the first few minutes Forrest broke into the circle but unfortunately his pullback was behind brother Mark and the chance was gone..Newry well marshalled by veteran Taylor made it difficult for North Down and play was confined to midfield.Hogg on the left wing was causing problems with his pace and the ever alert Conway had to clear his lines on a number of occasions.After about 20 minutes the ball broke to Forrest on the edge of the circle and he blasted an unstoppable shot past the Newry keeper.Bailie was suffering from cold and had to be substituted
.The weather did not abate in the second period but North Down upped the pace and dominated play.Forrest made it two when he rounded the keeper and slotted home.The game was safe when brother Mark scored the third with a reverse shot which the keeper got a hand to but could not prevent from entering the net..North Down won a series of corners but with the slow surface found difficulty penetrating the home defence.Forrest had a great chance to complete his hattrick but shot weakly when well placed in front of goal. Newry were reduced to 10 men for the last 12 minutes Holmes deservedly got a red card after hitting McGimpsey of the ball..They lost their shape after this but North Down were unable to take advantage of the extra man.
To everyones reliel the final whistle sounded with out anyone suffering from hyperthermia.Thanks to the two umpires who withstood the conditions in order to let the game be concluded.

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:: BLUE HOODY FOUND

By Jim Patterson
18/01/2009

A navy blue North Down hoody was found in the home dugout yesterday after the 1st XI ladies and 2nd XI mens matches. If its yours and you want it back, Keith Haslett has it.

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:: Minis Training

By P Whyte
18/01/2009

The minis return today after the christmas break. Due to the number of sessions cancelled before christmas due to bad weather I have organised that if the weather does not permit us to play outside that we have the option of training inside at the leisure centre. So even if the weather is bad please come along anyway. Welcome back.

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:: Correction to yesterday's news item

By Club statto
12/01/2009

Andy Forrest's goals total so far this season is 27, not 25. The top five are:

1 Andy Forrest 27
2 Peter Shields 20
3 Stephen Magee 13
4 Sam Pyper 11
5 Chris Speers 11

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:: CHLOE BROWN IN IRISH U16 TRAINING PANEL

By Jim Patterson
12/01/2009

Chloe Brown is one of ten Ulster U16 players included in a 34 strong Irish training panel. Well done again Chloe!

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:: IRISH HOCKEY TROPHY - SEMI FINAL DRAW

By Jim Patterson
12/01/2009

North Down have avoided the other two Ulster teams left in this new competition. The draw is:
Civil Service V Antrim
North Down V Catholic Institute

Both matches will be played on 7 March 2009, POSSIBLY, and this is unconfirmed, at the same neutral venue in Dublin.

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:: ANOTHER RECORD FOR ANDY!

By Club statto
11/01/2009

With his 2 goals yesterday against Queens, Andy Forrest has improved on his own record from last season by now scoring in 14 consecutive matches. His total for the season to date is 25 and with 111 in total for North Down he sits just outside the all time top ten.

Meanwhile, with his 2 goals on Saturday for the 5ths, Peter Shields is edging towards the 200 mark, now just 3 short. For info, the all time top 5 are:

1 Richard Glover 222
2 Jim Sloan 207
3 Colin Linter 200
4 Peter Shields 197
5 Ian Shields 170

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:: North Down work hard for success at Queens

By robin mitchell
10/01/2009

North Down travelled to the Dub on Saturday to play a Queens side who had run North Down close on two previous occasions this season.Saturday proved no exception and the 5-2 scoreline slightly flattered them.In fact they had to thank man of match Alex McRoberts for keeping the students at bay.
North Down opened at a fast pace and put the Queens defence under early pressure.Forrest cut out a clearance a nd his reverse shot was cleared.Then a run down the right and a cross from Forrest saw Bailie shoot narrowly past.Queens won a number of corners but McRoberts made fine saves.Good interplay by the midfielders created a chance for Forrest but he shot wideBailie found excellent space in the circle but Forrest decided to shoot when a square ball would have provided a simple tap in.North Down finally got the breakthrough when the Forrest brothers combined to leave Mark with a simple tap in .Almost immediately McKeown found space in the circle and a cheeky chip over the advancing keepr increased the lead.Two minutes later Andy Forrest found space at the top of the circle and hammered the ball past the helpless keeper.
Three minutes into the second period and Queens pulled one back.Steven Barr slipped as he carried the ball out of defence And a shot from the edge of the circle was deflected past McRoberts by the unlucky Willis.Queens now piled on the pressure and McRoberts had to make a number of fine saves to retain the two goal margin.Mark Forrest took some of the pressure of when he scored the fourth after good play by Bailie.Bailie had a great chance to increase the lead but his effort hit the keepers helmet.Then skipper Willis made a rare excursion into the circle only to see his reverse shot saved.Willis made a fine run and his cross was flicked over the keeper. By Andy Forrest .Mark Forrest was unlucky not to complete his hattrick with the umpire disallowing what appeared a perfectly good goal.With 4 minutes remaining Queens gave the scoreline some respectability when they ran the ball along the byline and squared for a straight forward goal.

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:: Return of youth hockey

By P Whyte
09/01/2009

After the Christmas break youth hockey will return at the following times:

Minis (P2-P7) Sunday 18 January 1.30-2.30
Girls (Form1 - Form3) Friday 9 January 7.00-8.00
Boys (Form1 - Form4) Monday 12 January 6.00-7.00

All training sessions at Comber Leisure Centre.

The boys U13 and U15's will be having tournament at Lisnagarvey on Sunday 11 January and if you are selected you will be contacted by your coach.

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:: BEST WISHES TO NIKKI

By Jim Patterson
04/01/2009

Best wishes to Nikki Ferris who broke her right ankle in a freak accident on New Years Day and good luck for your skiing holiday at the end of January !!

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:: Training Time Change

By PW
04/01/2009

A reminder to all who train on a Wednesday night that the training times have changed round with the ladies club on from 19.00-20.30 and the mens club on from 20.30-22.00.

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:: North Down win top of table clash

By robin mitchell
03/01/2009

North Down entertained Antrim in a top of the table clash at Comber on Saturday.It was the home side who ran out comfortable winners with a five one victory.With neighbours NICS winning at Harlequins these two sides are starting to see some daylight between themselves and the chasing pack. And everyone is looking forward to the clash between these two sides in three weeks time.
Neither side was able to take control with play confined to midfield.
However after 8 minutes Forrest drove into the circle to win a short corner.Speers effort was cleared of the line only for another corner to be awarded .This time Speers made no mistake dispatching the ball into the net.Seven minutes later Antrim were level.From a short corner awarded for feet the initial shot was saved but Riley was first to react and gave McRoberts no chance with the rebound. Goal chances were few but it was McRoberts who had to be alert to keep his side on level terms.Speers was caught in possession and he had to be quickly of his line to smother the ball at the top of the circle.With a minute to go to half time a piece of Andy Forrest magic saw North Down take the lead.He picked the ball up on the 25 and weaved his way past several defenders before slotting past the helpless keeper.
The second half saw more open play and plenty of goalmouth action.After 4 minutesSpeers increased the home sides lead when he scored with a strong flick from a short corner.Sis minutes later the result was no longer in doubt.Andy Forrest set up brother Mark and his reverse effort was partially blocked but Bailie was on hand to nudge home.Credit to Antrim they threw men forward in an effort to reduce the arrears.They won a series of corners but found McRoberts and his defence holding firmBailie was unlucky to be sinbinned for an illegal tackle but when of the pitch North Down increased their lead..From a free in they were awarded a short corner which struck a defender on the line and the resultant penalty was expertly tucked away by Forrest.Steven Barr was introduced to the fray .Without touching the ball he was yellow carded for breaking the line at a corner.This gave Antrim the chance to press forward but they were unable to create from open play.Their only chances came from corners but with McRoberts in top form they were unable pierce the home defence.

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:: SAD DEFEAT ON BOXING DAY

By Umpire assessor
27/12/2008

It is with regret that I announce the result of the annual fixture against the cricket club with a narrow 6 - 2 defeat yesterday. However, that's all the bad news. It was a great day. The game was played in the usual good spirit and watched by a large crowd and best of all, Ł320 was raised for the Northern Ireland Children's Cancer Unit. Thanks to all of the Shields', Ian and Brenda, Peter and Claire and Norman Johnston for providing ballot prizes and all those who helped with providing the food and the catering - Davy Donaldson, Brenda Shields and Claire Whyte, Janet Edgar and Danella Moreland.

Ian Shields has the full photographic record of the event on the cricket club website, just click on the links above, top right to get to it.

Well done to all involved!!

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:: CHRISTMAS NUMBER ONE

By Jim Patterson
24/12/2008

Number One fantasy league manager at the Christmas break with Cricket Folk on 309 points is PETER SHIELDS. In joint second with 273 points are CHRIS MCLEAN and LAURA CLARKE. Top player continues to be Andy Forrest and, ..... well, I don't want to mention who is officially the worst player but I can give a clue. If you are ever at a 2nd XI men's game and a defender comes out with the ball, beats 7 players and eventually loses out to the 8th and then stands shouting "JIIIMMMMMYYYY!!!!" ..... well that's him!

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:: North Down in Cruise Control

By robin mitchell
22/12/2008

North Down in Cruise Control

North Down travelled to Newcastle to play Ballynahinch on Saturday without skipper Willis and schoolboy international Ritchie.They secured 2 points in a comfortable victory to maintain their position at the top of the league.
Bailie gave them the perfect start when he scrambled the ball over the line at the second attempt in the first Bailie.Bailie was again in the right position to increase the lead after 5 minutes .His initial shot was saved but made no mistake with the rebound.
After 13 minutes North Down went 3 up.Linter and Bailie combined on the left to create an opening for Forrest who easily rounded his marker before slotting home.Two minutes later Speers won a short corner for feet and hammered home the set piece.At the other end in a rare break poor marking allowed the winger a free shot at goal but Bailie was on hand to clear of the line with McRoberts beaten.McGimpsey hit the bar with a rasping shot that had the keeper beaten.Further goals before the break put the game well out of Hinchs reach.A well taken free by Barr won a corner which Speers again tucked away. And then Forrest got his second with a reverse shot when given to much space in the circle.
North Down continued to pile on the pressure in the second period.After 5 minutes an overhead from Keith found Forrest who was obstructed.Speers initial effort from the corner was saved but Baird was on hand to slot home the rebound..Two minutes later Mark Forrest created space and passed to Linter who flicked pass the advancing keeper..Forrest had a shot taken of the line but the clearance struck a defender and Speers completed his hattrick with a strong flick from the resultant corner.Hinch to their credit tried to play open hockey and enjoyed their best spell in the game.A short corner effort went wide and then McRoberts was called upon to make a smart save.
North Down added 4 further goals in the last 5 minutes.First McKeown produced a piece of magic to create space and shoot home.McKeown then set up Forrest to complete his hattrick with a reverse sweep.Hinch failed to retreat at a free and Forrest punished them when he scored a corner variation..Mark Forrest completed the scoring when he and McGimpsey tore the Hinch defence apart and McGimpsey provided the final pass for a simple tap in.
A good all round performance and the same level of performance will be required against Antrim who will provide much stronger opposition.North Down are still smarting from an earl y season 6-1 trouncing by the same opposition and will be keen show that this was a one of blip.

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:: CHRISTMAS BALLOT RESULTS

By Jim Patterson
21/12/2008

We would first of all like to thank all who bought and sold tickets for our Annual Christmas Ballot and also of course to those who supplied prizes who are: S & R Electric, Hastings Group, Old Comber Wineyard, McBrides on the Square, Flavour First, Quiet Time Therapies, Panasonic and Lisbarnett Inn.

Well done to all the prize winners below:

1st Stu Moore
2nd Linda Clarson
3rd Hazel Martin
4th Laura Clarke
5th Kaitlyn Morrison
6th Jeanette Gould
7th Susan Johnston
8th George Houston

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:: Club Ballot

By PW
20/12/2008

The annual ballot is nearly upon us! We would encourage all members to ensure they sell as many ballots as possible and get them to your captain by Saturday. This is an essential part of our fundraising which keeps your subs to a minimum so there is every reason to make an effort to sell your tickets. Who knows - you might even win!!!!!!!!!

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:: Ladies Training

By C Whyte
17/12/2008

The last training session before Christmas will take the form of a friendly tournament for all the ladies teams. Feel free to dress in suitably festive gear. See you all there.

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:: Weather Update

By P Whyte
14/12/2008

Good news and bad news on the weather front today. The U13 game is still on but unfortunately the minis is cancelled as the pitch in Comber is frozen. The U15 game is still on at present. If there is any change i will let everybody know.

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:: Busy Sunday for Boys Youths

By P Whyte
14/12/2008

It was a busy week for the boys section with the U13's playing their first game of the season against South Antrim and the U15's playing away at Lisnagarvey.

A youthful U13 side made the trip to The Dub to play South Antrim in what was an entertaining game of hockey and came away with a 2-2 draw. The U13 side this year are a young team and their inexperience showed early on as they fell two goals behind to a more experienced South Antrim side. Howvere North Down gradually came into the game as they got used to new combinations. After some advice from coaches Keith Conway and Ross Linter at half time North Down stormed back into the game with goals from Ethan Fleck and Scott Dennis. Coaches Conway and Linter were delighted by the second half performance of all the boys and this young group will only get better. At the back Ally Hunter controlled things well and Ethan Fleck caught the eye up front. However the man of the match award went to Peter McKibben who was outstanding in centre midfield and at the heart of all North Downs play.

The U15's made the trip to Hillsborough to play an excellent Lisnagarvey side and although they lost 3-1 there were a lot of positives in what was an excellent game of hockey. Lisnagarvey started the game the better and took the lead from a short corner. Howevere this seemed to spur North Down into action with the midfield of Forrest, Donnan and Calvin playing some excellent hockey. North Down got the goal they deserved when David Shepherd converted a short corner. The second half saw some excellent hockey with the North Down central defence of Shepherd and Black doing well to keep the dangerous Gravey forwards at bay. Both sides had their chances but Garvey converted two of theirs to win 3-1. This was an excellent game of hockey with the only difference in the two sides being the cutting edge of the Gravey forwards. Man of the match was David Shepherd.

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:: BOXING DAY FIXTURE

By Jim Patterson
09/12/2008

Check the guestbook for details.

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:: Matches cancelled

By P Whyte
07/12/2008

Unfortunately both the U12 tournament and U15 matches have had to be cancelled today. Sorry for any inconvenience.

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:: LATEST NEWS FROM NORTH DOWN'S FANTASY LEAGUE

By Jim Patterson
03/12/2008

Leading manager at the end of November is Chris McLean followed by Peter Shields with longtime leader Gavin Wilson in third place.

Manager of the Month for November was Peter Shields and Player of the Month was Andy Forrest.

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:: Weather....again

By P Whyte
03/12/2008

Once again all training at the leisure centre has had to be cancelled due to the fact the Belfast Giants would be at home playing on it. This includes both mens and ladies. However the firsts mens squad are requested to meet at the normal time at the leisure centre.

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:: Good Luck

By P Whyte
02/12/2008

Everyone at the club wishes Chloe Brown the best of luck as she plays for Ulster this weekend in the U16 interprovincials in Kilkenny. It is a fitting reward for all the hard work Chloe has put in to develop her game and im sure she will do everybody proud.

Also travelling to the U16 interprovincials is Christine Reid as an umpire. Christine selection this weekend is a well deserved honour and shows there is more than one way to reach the higher levels in hockey.

Good luck to both girls.

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:: Training Falls Victim to the Weather

By P Whyte
01/12/2008

Unfortunately all training at Comber Leisure Centre and Garvey has had to be cancelled for tonight due to the weather. Apologies for any inconvenience

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:: Minis training cancelled

By P Whyte
30/11/2008

Unfortunately the minis training today is cancelled due to the pitch being frozen.

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:: Ben King

By KM
29/11/2008

All the players of the 2nd XI and indeed the club wish Ben King a speedy recovery from a broken arm suffered during the Bangor game.

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:: North Down share spoils with Harlequins

By robin mitchell
29/11/2008

North Down entertained Harlequins in an Anderson Cup game at Comber on Saturday.In a rather dour battle the spoils were shared in a 4-4 draw
Play was confined to midfield for long periods with neither side able to take control.North Down gave the ball away much too easy and allowed Harlequins to play the game in their half
In the first minute Andy Forrest made an interception and attacked the visitors circle.He waltzed his way round a number of defenders before slipping past the keeper.North Down retained possession after this but were unable to make ground..Slowly Harlequins got control but were unable to penetrate the North Down circle.In the 31 minute Bailie was penalised for not retreating 5 yards at a free and from the resulting corner Anderson slotted home the equaliser .
The second half was a more lively affair.Harlequins took the lead after 2 minutes.The ball broke down the left and they won a corner for obstruction.Anderson flicked high into the net.North Down almost immediately equalised.Bailie won the ball and slipped to Forrest who flicked over the advancing keeper..Ten minutes later and Harlequins were back in front and again it was that man Anderson.North Down were penalised for feet in the circle and again he flicked high into the net..North Down then won a series of corners and in the 23 minute Baird equalised when he slotted home a rebound from Speers initial shot.McKeown went on a run but was stopped by some rough tackles which went unpunished..With 3 minutes remaining Forrest went on a run and when he was unfairly stopped in the circle the umpire awarded a penalty which he expertly tucked away to complete his hattrick.North Down thought they had done enough to win the game but somehow the umpires decided to play 4 minutes added time.Just before the final whistle sounded a stick tackle resulted in Harlequins being awarded their fourth corner of the game.As before Anderson dispatched into the net of Barrs stick to maintain his 100 percent record with four strikes from four attempts

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:: U14 training off

By P Whyte
28/11/2008

Just a reminder to the U14 girls that there will be no training tonight as the U14 girls have a match.

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:: Interprovincial Honours for Paul Ritchie

By P Whyte
25/11/2008

Congratulations to Paul Ritchie who, for the second year in a row, represented his province at the U16 interprovincial championships held in Belfast.

Paul featured heavily in all the games and in the last game managed to get his name on the scoresheet. Ulster finished second in the tournament with a youthful side and Pauls experience was vital to his team sperformance.

Congratulations from all at the club for this well deserved honour and keep it going.

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:: Missing Jacket

By P Whyte
25/11/2008

Andy Forrest, goal scorer supreme and all round nice guy, has lost his training jacket. It is size medium and has his name on the label. If you think you may have it or may have seen it please contact Andy or myself - no questions will be asked.

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:: SECONDS GO DOWN AT BANGOR

By 2nd XI reporter
23/11/2008

Despite the 7 – 3 loss to Bangor 2nds at Ballykillaire last Saturday North Down 2nds came away from the game with the feeling that possibly a corner had been turned. The seconds more than held their own for most of the game notwithstanding the apparent cricket score of a result. What has been lacking in their play recently has been the failure to turn possession into penalty corners and goal scoring opportunities but this all changed last Saturday and there was goalmouth action at both ends throughout the match.

Bangor 2nds took advantage of poor North Down marking and simply took every single chance which came their way. The home team went ahead in the 4th minute but a period of North Down pressure eventually was rewarded with an equalizer from Johnny Gray on 20 minutes. Bangor were back ahead in 30 seconds straight from the restart and added two more before half time.

The home team forced a fifth and then a sixth goal early into the second half before goals from Keith Haslett and Scotty Moore reduced the arrears. Bangor then finished the scoring by adding a seventh on the final whistle.

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:: North Down in Cruise Control

By robin mitchell
22/11/2008

North Down travelled to Belmont on Saturday to play Cliftonville in a league game winning comfortably by 9 goals to nil.
Coach Johnston had the players up for the game and they came out of the blocks at a fast pace.After 5 minutes a great piece of interplay between Mark Forrest and Bailie set up Speers for a simple tap in.Two minutes later Andy Forrest and Linter combined to win a corner which Speers dispatched expertly into the roof of the net.In the 12minute McRoberts was called into action and had to make a fine save from a short corner to keep his goal intact.This proved to be his only piece of action in the entire game.In the 15 minute McGimpsey made an interception and an excellent run from Forrest created space and he blasted the ball home from the edge of the circle..With about 5 minutes of the half remaining McGimpsey found Andy Forrest in the circle .He rounded the keeper but his goalbound attempt was cleared of the line.
At half time although 3 up the coach was not happy.North Down were not capitalising on the possession and their inability to win corners was again evident.
The second half was dominated by the visitors with their skill and pace proving to much for the home side.Srtaight from the hit of North Down won a free and Speers found Barr free in the circle and he calmly flicked the ball into the roof of the net..Straight from the hitof McGimpsey won the ball and quickly released Speers who in turn provided Andy Forrest with a goal.McGimpsey then fired over and Bailie won a corner which was cleared.In the 15 minute Andy Forrest picked up a rebound after Barr had hit the post and flicked home..Cliftonville were beginning to lose their discipline and gave away an unnecessary corner which was saved..Andy Forrest completed his hattrick in the 26 minute when Barr and his brother Mark were the providers..Two minutes later a good cross from Linter fell perfectly for Mark Forrest a nd he deflected the ball into the net past a helpless keeper.Skipper Willis completed the goal rout when he picked up a rebound after a McGimpsey shot came back after hitting the post and slotted home.
The second period saw a much more clinical performance winning more corners and cnverting a greater percentage of their chances.

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:: FANTASY HOCKEY LEAGUE

By Fantasy HL administrator
21/11/2008

For those unfortunates not involved, our first fantasy hockey league has now been running for 7 weeks with 40 teams entered. The leaderboard at present is:

1 Gavin Wilson 140 points
2 Chris McLean 128 points
3 Peter Shields 126 points
4 Mark Forrest 121 points
5 Karen Moore 118 points
6 Andy Forrest 111 points
7 Gareth Bailie 109 points
8 Keith Conway 105 points
8 Alan McMaster 105 points
10 Ross Linter 101 points

There is still time to enter a team as the league will run until the end of the season. To enter, contact either the ADMINISTRATOR or Jim Patterson.

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:: Welcome Back!

By
18/11/2008

Welcome back to the website and its new site name! It will take a short while to update fixtures, results etc. If anyone wants to update their profile say by resetting your login name and password, new details or even an updated photo email Jim Patterson who will let you know when to redo the info.

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:: Cup Success against Queens

By Jim Patterson
15/11/2008

NARROW CUP WIN FOR NORTH DOWN

North Down entertained Queens for the second time in three weeks last Saturday at Enler Park in Comber. The league encounter three weeks ago saw the students lose narrowly 3- 2 with the last hit of the game and this time, in a second round Irish Hockey Trophy game, the result was even closer with the game only being decided 2 – 1 in North Down’s favour by a Chris Speers golden goal in the second period of extra time.

Queens had been clearly disappointed with their earlier league failure and set out to make their mark early in this game forcing two short corners in the first ten minutes in an early spell of pressure. North Down survived this initial onslaught and hit back with a shot from Ross Linter which went narrowly wide and from Andy Forrest which was well saved by the Queens keeper.

Two saves from Alex McRoberts after 20 minutes and 28 minutes denied the students an opening goal which was merited from the pressure they were putting on the home defence in which Paddy Wright was rock solid. Queens always looked the more likely to score as the North Down attack, so often profligate in front of goals, lacked cohesion and penetration.

However, a lapse of concentration by Queens in the last five minutes of the first half cost them dearly. As they continued to press forward they gifted a chance to Andy Forrest whose shot was well saved and then with one minute of the half remaining, Ian McKeown intercepted a poor pass in midfield and played a through ball at pace into the Queens’ circle which was touched past the keeper by Andy Forrest. It may have been only the slightest of touches but they all count and this goal put Andy within 4 goals of the magical 100 mark.

Both teams had chances at the start of the second half. Gareth Bailie shot wide following a break by Richard Willis and then Queens squandered the best opportunity of the game by missing an open goal. From the 40th minute the home team then had their best spell of pressure in the match forcing a series of six fruitless short corners in as many minutes and, with the tempo of the game increasing, the umpires saw fit to intervene with the production of green cards firstly to local boy Daniel Graham for the students and then Messrs Wright and McKeown for North Down.

On the hour Queens were eventually rewarded for their efforts with a short corner which was flicked high into the net leaving McRoberts helpless. This was the signal for an all out attack on the home defence and with three minutes left of normal time Queens had strong claims for a penalty stroke denied by the award of a short corner instead. There was still time for another Queens chance as they forced yet another short corner almost on the final whistle but again McRoberts pulled off another fine save to keep North Down in the tie.

With the final score at 1 – 1 it was time for extra time and golden goals. Queens again started best but it was Forrest who tested the keeper with a rasping shot five minutes into the first additional 7 ˝ minute period which then ended with the score still tied at 1 – 1. To the relief of the home supporters, and with penalty strokes looming, North Down eventually did something with their seventh short corner of the game. Six minutes were left on the clock when Chris Speers drag flicked an excellent goal into the corner of the net for the umpire to signal full time and send North Down into the next round of the competition.

Queens will again feel frustrated that they came up short against North Down and local coaches Johnston and Davis will have to get their collective thinking caps on to develop better North Down short corner routines.

North Down’s Man of the Match: Alex McRoberts.

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:: Youth Hockey 2008/2009

By Peter Whyte
12/09/2008

Following on from a hugely successful season last year youth hockey is shortly to commence for next year. During last season the U13 boys reached their cup semifinal, the U15 boys their final and the U14 girls won their regional league and reached the cup semifinal. On the representative front Paul Ritchie was selected as vice captain for Ulster and was also selected for Ireland U16s. This year already Chloe Brown and Tom Donnan have been selected for the Irish U15 development squads as well as both being selected for Ulster U16 development squads along with Paul Ritchie and Stephen Forrest.

This not only shows the talent of these young players but the excellent youth structure operating at the club. If you are interested in joining our youth section please contact Peter Whyte on 02891871544.

The coaching times and starting dates are:

Minis (P5-P7) commences Sunday 14 September 1.30-2.30
Minis (P2-P4) commences Sunday 5 October 1.30-2.30 - this is an 8 week introduction to and basics of hockey course and will focus on sport fundamentals, hockey basics and having fun. A second course will run after Christmas. More details will be available shortly but please feel free to contact Peter Whyte for more information.
Form 1 to Form 3 Girls commences Friday 12 September 7.00-8.00
Form 1 to Form 4 Boys commences Monday 15 September 6.00-7.00

All sessions will be held at Comber Leisure Centre

Our membership for the coming year is now open so please feel free to contact Peter Whyte (contact details available under youth contacts) for more information whether you are already a member of the club or want to try hockey for the first time.

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:: Mens training 3/8/09

By PW
03/09/2008

Just a reminder to all that there will be no mens training tonight. Instead the mens firsts will be playing Bangor in a pre season friendly so why not come down and support them. Pass back at 19.00.

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:: 2nds v Civil Service 2nds (Friendly)

By KM
03/09/2008

Just a quick reminder to meet at Civil Service at 3.30pm sharp. Match starting at 4pm. Any problems let me know asap.

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:: Ladies Training Hits the Astro

By C Edgar
03/09/2008

Just a reminder to all ladies that training begins on the astro on Wednesday night for all the club from 8.30-10.30 at comber Leisure Centre. This season sees new faces on the coaching front including a new senior coach, Glenn Strannex who will be taking charge of the firsts and seconds and the two Keiths, Haslett and Conway, looking after the rest of the club.

All members, new and old will be more than welcome.

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:: 4th xi Captain

By robin mitchell
01/09/2008

Colin McMullan who stepped into the breach and did an excellent job skippering the fourths last season has had to stand down this season for family reasons.He hopes to be back in the fold in the not to distant future.

With league fixtures due to begin on 13 Sept. would anyone interested in looking after the fourths in Colin,s absence contact either myself or Jim Patterson as soon as possible.

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:: FRIENDLY SUCCESS FOR MEN'S 1ST XI

By 1st XI reporter
01/09/2008

The 1st XI entertained Clontarf at Enler Park last Saturday in a pre-season friendly. With four or five regulars still in the USA there was an opportunity to give a run out to 3 of last year's under 15s, Johnny Calvin, Tom Donnan and David Shepherd who all got a chance to show they could step up to a higher level.

Clontarf went ahead with a penalty corner after 25 minutes but Ian McKeown, making his return to North Down, equalised minutes later with a snap shot following a quick turn on the ball. Stephen McGimpsey, with blood oozing from all joints, knuckles and knees, put North Down ahead after a short corner on the stroke of half time.

North Down dominated for long periods of the game and eventually added a third goal when McKeown put McGimpsey clear on goal with an excellent through ball. Gippy rounded the keeper and buried the ball in the corner for the goal of the game to round off a worthwhile exercise with the final score 3 - 1 to North Down.

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:: Ladies Parkway Training Cancelled 01.09.08

By Mrs Eggwhyte
01/09/2008

Sorry girlies- training at Parkway is cancelled this evening- GOOD NEWS however is that from this Wednesday, 3rd September we will ALL be training Wednesday nights at Comber Leisure Centre from 8-30pm to 10pm, Monday training for 3rds, 4ths and 5ths will be at your own discretion!!! Yes to say again that will be 1sts thro to 5ths on the Astro every Wednesday and start bringing your fees!!!

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:: Irish Veteran Honours for Paul Johnston

By P Whyte
01/09/2008

Congratulations to 1xi coach Paul Johnston who was selected to play for the Ireland veterans team in the Home Nations Championships in Glasgow over the weekend. While Ireland managed to lose all their games Paul enjoyed the whole experience and was delighted to be the youngest player on the pitch.

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:: Pre-Season Friendlies

By robin mitchell
28/08/2008

With all league fixtures due to commence on 13 September the following friendlies have been arranged
Saturday 30 August 1st xi v Clontarf at Comber LC 12.00
3rd xi v Nics at Comber LC 2.00
Wednesday 3 September 1st xi v Bangor at Comber LC 7.00
Saturday 6 September 1st xi v Armagh at Comber LC time TBC.

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:: Mens Goalkeeping Crisis

By robin mitchell
28/08/2008

Four of last seasons keepers have retired for differing reasons leaving the club with the difficult job of filling the gaps.
If anyone would be interested in joining they would be most welcome or if anyone knows of potential keepers who might be interested in moving to Comber please let myself or one of the coaches know.

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:: NEWS FROM THE ULSTER BRANCH CLUB SEMINAR

By Jim Patterson
28/08/2008

Some items of interest from the seminar held on 28 August.
1. It's now 3 points for a win in all leagues.
2. If you are interested in gaining umpiring skills the Umpire's Association are running a 2 night course in Stranmillis College, Belfast on 16 and 24 September and a Grade 3 test on 15 October at the House of Sport. This is for men AND ladies. If interested, contact me for further details.
3. Following the demise of the ISN, all results should now be telephoned to the new Belfast Newsletter hockey correspondent, Philip Allen on 0775 3248418

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:: 2nds play Civil Service on 6th in friendly

By KM
28/08/2008

The 2nd XI have a friendly against neighbours Civil Service 2nd XI on Sat 6th Sept starting at 4pm at Stormont.

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:: Ladies Training Cancelled

By C Edgar
18/08/2008

Please note that the ladies training tonight is cancelled. North Down water polo team are using Parkway instead.

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:: Mens Pre Season Change

By P Whyte
04/08/2008

Sorry to disappoint but its not cancelled.

The starting time, however, will be 19.30 rather than 19.00.

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:: Ladies Pre season Training Details

By Eggwhyte
02/08/2008

Happy, happy days are here again!!!
Pre-Season training for all the ladieees to begin this Monday evening- 04th August 2008 at Parkway, Comber from 6-30 to 8pm- and to continue on Wednesdays and Mondays at same time until moving to astro- we will let you know when this happens!
Parkway gravel pitches are to be found behind the Police Station on Killinchy Street, Comber
Hope to see a good turn out and all new members welcome.

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:: Pre Season Training Men

By robin mitchell
28/07/2008

Yes it is that time of the year again and everyone should be looking forward to getting rid of those excess pounds gained over the summer.
Training will commence on Monday 4 August and coaches Brian Davis and Paul Johnston expect to see everyone in attendance.
Details are as follows
During August : Monday evenings at the Green commencing 7.00 p.m
Wednesday evenings at the Green commencing 7.00p.m transferring onto the plastic from 22nd August.
Anyone unable to attend should keep Paul updated on their availability.

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:: NEW MOCKFORD ON THE SCENE

By Jim Patterson
14/07/2008

Sorry to impinge on Minty's sensibilities but we must announce the arrival of Halle Kate Mockford, a new daughter for Mocky and Andrea who arrived on the scene 12th or 13th July, date to be confirmed. Well done to all involved, including Mocky!

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:: Pre season training

By KM
01/07/2008

Sorry to interupt Jimmy and Whyties births, deaths and marriages website but W.E.F the 1st Monday in August pre season training will commence at the Green starting at 7pm sharp!!! A good attendence from the mens section is expected.

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:: BABY GIRL FOR THE TAIMUR KHANS

By Jim Patterson
26/06/2008

Congratulations to 5th XI leading goalscorer and also long serving Cricket Club pro Taimur Khan and wife Mehrin on the birth of a baby girl (8 lbs ) last Saturday 21 June.

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:: Even More Youth Success

By P Whyte
25/06/2008

Congratulations to Tom Donnan who has been selected for the Irish U15 development squad. A great achievement from a very talented player. And just to prove hes good at all sports Tom has also been selected to play in the Belfast squad for the Lords Taverners cricket trophy in London. Well done on both achievements from all at the club.

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:: Selection Success for Girls

By P Whyte
24/06/2008

Congratulations to Zara Millar and Chloe Brown who have both been invited to train with Ulster U16's over the summer. Special congratulations to Chloe who has also been chosen for the Irish U15 development squad training.

This is an excellent achievement and they have both worked hard to get this far. Keep it up girls!

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:: MORE STORK DELIVERIES TO NORTH DOWN

By Jim Patterson
06/06/2008

Congratulations to Andrew Coates and Claire on the arrival of Eva Rose and also to Jo Irwin and Richard with the arrival of Rachel Georgina. Well done to all concerned, and the stork!

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:: Youth BBQ and Awards Presentation

By P Whyte
25/05/2008

This Sunday (25th May) the youth section will be having their annual bbq and awards presentation. As usual the venue will be North Down Cricket Club. All boys, girl and parents from U12 teams and above are welcome. Awards will be presented to U12 and U14 girls players of the year and U13 and U15 boys players of the year. Their will also be the coaches award presented to the player whose attitude to training has been excellent throughout the year. It all starts at 2.00 and i look forward to seeing you there.

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:: MIXED HOCKEY

By Jim Patterson
16/05/2008

Check the guestbook for details of a mixed event coming up.

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:: Summer Hockey Courses

By P Whyte
13/05/2008

Ards Borough Council will again be running two weeks of hockey coaching over the summer at Comber Leisure Centre.

The first week will be 28 July - 1 August and the second week 18 August - 22 August. Both courses will run from 10-12 each morning and the cost is Ł25.00. The courses tend to fill up quickly so i would advise booking your place as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. Ring the main Council offices on 02891 824000 and ask for Leisure Services for more information or call in for an application form.

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:: MEN'S 5THS CLINCH LEAGUE TROPHY

By 5th XI reporter
07/05/2008

The 5ths rounded off the 2007/08 hockey season with a convincing 4 - 1 victory over Saintfield 2nds in the Junior League 7 play off game at Deramore last night to complete a cup and league double for the season.

The 5ths were missing Taimur Khan, their leading goal scorer due to cricket committments. Saintfield started much stronger and dominated the first 15 minutes play so it was no surprise when they opened the scoring with a well taken goal which gave Jim Boyd no chance. A few stern words from Gavin Rodgers at the back saw North Down tighten up their act and they levelled the game within 2 minutes through Andrew Haire. Five minutes later, the 5ths went ahead with a power drive from Peter Shields which rattled the back boards and North Down gradually took over control in midfield prompted by Messrs Johnston, Harper and Moreland. It has to be said although that veteran Harper, doyen of the grass, had a far from steady start to the game and was the butt of some unkind comments from the North Down supporters.

Saintfield came out strongly at the start of the second half but again gradually lost their way against a firm defence, with McKee and Graham well to the fore, and when Marty Moreland scored the third from the edge of the circle after 55 minutes play the destination of the league trophy was never in doubt. Peter Shields rounded off the scoring with 10 minutes to go with a pile driver into the back of the net which gave Martin Johnston in goals no chance. North Down played out time and ran out comfortable winners although disappointedly the league trophy was not available on the night for presentation.

The 5th XI this season has proved to be a worthwhile experiment for both the cricket and hockey clubs and hopefully this will continue next season in Junior 6. As usual, there was full media coverage of last night's game. Ian Shields was on hand with his excellent photographs for the website gallery and the match was captured on video. Anyone who wants to borrow the video of the game, contact Jim Patterson.

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:: Summer Coaching Courses

By P Whyte
06/05/2008

I have just received information on the coaching corses available over the summer. These will be Introduction to Hockey Coaching - Teachers, Introduction to Hockey - Volunteers, Level One, Level Two and Level Three. For more information send an email to whytey111@btinternet.com and i will forward the appropriate details and application form. These courses tend to fill very quickly so i would suggest you contact me as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

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:: U14 Girls Youth Finals

By T Ritchie
06/05/2008

The U14 girls made the trip to Garvey this year to take part in their finals day. The girls knew they would face a tough task as the finals day is a step up in class from the regional leagues. However confidence was high as the girls were undefeated this year. The girls started well defeating Harlequins 2-0, Mossley 4-1 and Priorians 3-0. This was enough to see them qualify for the semi-finals but a close defeat to Lurgan meant they faced the tougher draw.

Drawn against an excellent Victorians side, who did not concede a goal throughout the finals, the girsl were unfortunate to get beat 2-0. They produced their best hockey of the season against their toughest oppostion and the only difference in the teams was the ability to finish.

Coach T Ritchie was delighted with the performance of all the girls in the final. Special praise was reserved for Amy Benson, Zara Millar and Chloe Brown who have showed exceptional from throughout the year.

The girls would like to thank Trevor Allsop for his umpiring, and all the parents and friends whose support at the finals and through the year was very much appreciated.

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:: U15 Boys Plate Final Report

By P Whyte
06/05/2008

Last Sunday the U15 boys were defeated heavily by Lisnagarvey in the U15 Plate Final at Mossley.

Having already defeated Garvey A in the semo North Down were confident of victory and dstared the game marginally the better side with the clever running of Stephen Campbell creating several half chances. However North Down did not take any of these chances and the Garvey forwards punished them to take a 3-0 lead into half time.

In the second half North Down started well again but chances were missed and Garvey began to dominate the game scoring a further three goals with North Down replying with only one goal.

This was a disappointing result for North Down and although the scoreline did not fully reflect the game Garvey were more than worthy winners and played some excellent hockey.

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:: MEN'S 5TH XI LEAGUE PLAY OFF

By Jim Patterson
30/04/2008

The 5th XI will play their final game of the season next Tuesday 6 May in the Junior League 7 play off match against Saintfield 2nds at Deramore Park. Pushback is at 7.00 pm. A vast crowd of travelling supporters is expected.

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:: MEN'S 5THS SECURE PROMOTION

By 5th XI reporter
27/04/2008

The 5ths secured promotion from Junior League 7 with a comprehensive victory over the youthful South Antrim 5th XI on Saturday last at Laurelhill High School.

The outcome was never in doubt with North Down scoring 3 times in the opening 15 minutes with short corner strikes twice from Gavin Rodgers and a flick into the net close in from Jamie McKee. The 5ths continued to move the ball about impressively and added a further 3 goals through Rodgers, McKee and Ben Willis by half time.

A dreadful mixup at the back 10 minutes into the second half saw South Antrim pull a goal back but North Down seemed content to hold onto their lead and spent most of the second half using a bewildering combination of substitutions which may not have unsettled South Antrim but certainly confused themselves. With 15 minutes remaining, Paul McCaughey restored the 6 goal advantage witha tap in from 3 yards and the 5ths simply played out time to finish level on top of Junior 7 with Saintfield 2nds.

It is likely that there will now be a play off for the league trophy. Watch this website for news of the date, time and venue.

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:: MEN'S 5THS JUST EDGE OUT BALLYMENA 2NDS

By 5th XI reporter
23/04/2008

In their penultimate, ie the one before the last, league game of the season, the 5ths just scraped through against a suspiciously strong Ballymena 2nds team which featured at least one Junior Ulster player who had obviously been dropped to the seconds.

There was early drama in the 12th minute when Roger Graham conceeded a short corner by taking a stick in the face. As Ballymena were taking this opportunity to score the first goal the unlucky Graham was enroute for a stitching appointment at the Ulster Hospital. Ten minutes later veteran George Harper equalised with a tame drive into the corner of the net but Ballymena were soon ahead again to show that this was not going to be a routine victory for the Stabane Cup champions.

Goals from Paul Johnston and skipper Martin Moreland eased the 5ths into a half time lead of 3 - 2 but the pace and strong running of the Ballymena forwards gave the North Down defence plenty of headaches in the second half and lynchpin Gavin Rodgers was often seen in a helicopter like spin as he battled to clear his lines. With 15 minutes to go, Davy Wishart picked up a loose ball on the edge of the circle and drove it home to popular acclaim. The home spectators relaxed expecting a cruise to the final whistle but it was not to be. With 10 minutes remaining the Ballymena right winger scored the goal of the game with an unstoppable drive into the roof of the net from a wide angle which gave Jim Boyd no chance.

The 5ths reverted to the time honoured 'Portadown ball' to play out time and there were nervous minutes as the clock ran down and Ballymena looked as if they could salvage a point. The umpires had signalled 'two minutes' when Paul Johnston made the game safe with a tap in from 2 yards to make the final score a somewhat flattering 5 - 3 for North Down.

The final league game of the season for this ground breaking 5th XI is this Saturday against South Antrim 5ths at Laurelhill High School at 2.30 pm. There's no other hockey for any of our teams, it's an important game for the Club and for the 5ths so come along, give your support and join the party!

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:: 2nds consolidate Junior one status

By KM
22/04/2008

The 2nds playing their first season in top flight junior hockey have retained their junior league one status after Newry II XI and Lisnagarvey III XI were relegated.

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:: Big Weekend for Youth Teams

By P Whyte
21/04/2008

This Sunday sees two North Down youth sides in finals action. The u15 boys will play Lisnagarvey in the u15 plate starting at 11.30am in Mossley. The undefeated u14 girls will be playing in their finals day at Lisnagravey Hockey Club with their first game at 10.30. Both sides have done superbly to get this far and all support would be appreciated.

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:: ANDY FORREST SETS NEW CLUB GOALSCORING RECORD

By Jim Patterson
21/04/2008

Well done to Andy Forrest whose 4 goals in the 1st XI's last game of the season against Ballynahinch on Saturday moved him on to 38 for the season and a new Club record. This beats the totals of 36 each previously set by Peter Shields and Darren Rice. Joint second in this season's rankings with 24 goals each were Sam Pyper and Andrew Shannon.

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:: emphatic win to end season

By robin mitchell
19/04/2008

North Down for so long promotion challengers had to come from behind tin their final league game against a Ballynahinch side that had just staved of relegation the previous week by beating Cliftonville
After Andy Forrest had twice gone close for North Down it was Hinch who took a shock lead Mark Graham latching on to a Philip Murray pass before deftly flicking over Andy Coates.The lead was doubled minutes later when Ross scored from an acute angle at a penalty corner.North Down contributed little in the first half but what a transformation in the second period after stern words from coaches Johnston and Davis.The game was turned on its head with North Down grabing 3 goals in the first 5 minutes of the restartGareth Bailie got the first after Forrests effort had been blocked Linter was the provider seconds later for Andy Forrest to equalise.Bailie put North Down in front when he also was set up by Linter.Their was only one team in it now and Andy Forrest extended the lead with 2 excellent finishes.Coates was required to clear his lines after an overhead pass had not been cleared.Barr played a super free into the circle but noone was able to get a touch.Mark Forrest added number 6 after exchanging passes with brother Andy Andy completed a virtuoso second half performance with his fourth and North Downs seventh with the last hit of the game.
Andy Forrests four goal hall created a new club goalscoring record.The record was previously jointly held by Peter Shields and Darren Rice with 36 goals but his 4 goal haul saw him overtake and set a new record of 38.Well done Andy

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:: Thirds Disappointed

By sam pyper
19/04/2008

The third eleven missed out on promotion to Junior 3 by a single point.Mossley secured maximum points from their last three games as a result of opposition teams not turning up.allowing them to stay ahead of North Down who had to properly fulfil all their games.
It is unfair to teams challenging for trophies etc if teams don’t turn up simply because they can,t be bothered travelling, particularly towards the end of the season when they have nothing to play for. .. In order to ensure that all fixtures are fulfilled perhaps the Branch should look at possibility of deducting points from those teams not fulfilling fixtures.
I guess we will never know if the best team won.

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:: 5ths win Strabane Cup

By robin mitchell
19/04/2008

Age and experience helped North Down to victory in the Strabane Cup final at Deramore on Saturday although they had to withstand some late pressure from South Antrim.The Comber team started stronger and were justly rewarded after 10 minutes when Jamie McKee scored following a short corner.
South Antrim whose oldest player was a 17 year old took their time to make an impact on the game but once they did the result could have gone either way
Antrim had the better of the exchanges towards the close and could well have forced extra time but failed to take advantage of two penalty corners which were expertly taken of the line by the experienced Gavin Rodgers.

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:: MEN'S 5THS PLAY IN STRABANE CUP FINAL THIS SATURDAY

By Jim Patterson
16/04/2008

North Down men's team of the year, the 5th XI, will play South Antrim 5ths in the final of the Strabane Cup at Belfast Harlequins this Saturday 19 April with pushback at 1.00 pm. If you're not involved in any of the 3 home league matches this Saturday come along and support the 5ths.

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:: U14 Boys Second in Ringwood Cup

By P Whyte
14/04/2008

On Sunday the U14 boys made the trip to Dublin to play in Three Rock Rovers Ringwood cup and finished a creditable second.

In the pool stages North Down were drawn with Dublin YMCA, Glenanne and the hosts. In their first game the boys beat YMCA 2-0. The first goal was converted by David Birch at the backpost, a position were he constantly caused problems for all the opposition, and the second was a low dragflick by David Shepherd that gave the keeper no chance. Despite creating numerous other oppurtunities, with Stephen Forrest prominent, they could not convert any more chances. Player of the match was Jonny Linter. In the second game the boys beat Glenanne 2-1. Stephen Campbell scored the first and it was easily the best goal of the tournament as he deflected the ball from the top of the circle into the roof of the net. North Down really put the pressure on and Mark Simpson smashed the ball into the net on the half volley to extend North Downs lead. However the boys switched of at this stage and allowed Glenanne to pull one back. They had to survive a nervous last five minutes but held on for the win largely thanks to a great defensive performance from Jordan Linter who wa player of the match. In their last pool game, having already qualified, the boys beat Three Rock 3-0. The first was another contender for goal of the tournament with Tom Donnan hitting the roof of the net from the top of the "D" with a reverse stick shot. The other goal were scored by David Shepherd with a shot from a short corner and Mark Simpson with another great shot from the top of the circle. Player of the match was Jonny Calvin.

Having qualified top of their group with a 100% record the North Down faced a good Cork Church of Ireland in the semi-final. This was a good game of hockey that North Down won by being more clinical and convertin their chances. The first was scored by Stephen Campbell who met a great free from David Shepherd at the back post and expertly tucked it away. North Down then came under great pressure from the C of I team as their legs began to tire but goalkeeper Tony Brown and the central defensive pair of David Shepherd and Jordan Linter were able to stop C of I scoring while being dangerous on the break. In the last minute North Down made certain of victory with Jonny Calvin converting a short corner to secure a final spot. Players of the match were David Shepherd and Jordan Linter.

It was to be an all Ulster final as the boys went up against Banbridge to decide the winners of the tournament. North Down were at this stage struggling with injuries to key players as fatigue began to set in and were beaten 3-0 by an excellent Banbridge side who throughly deserved to win the tournament. The first goal was caused by weak tacling that allowed a Banbridge player to go through the middle of the defence and score on the reverse. They added top their goal with seven minutes to go with a carbon copy goal of their first and added a third with a minute left as North Down pushed forward. Palyers of the match - Michael Black and Connor Millar.

This was a great day out for the boys, superbly organised by Three Rock Rovers, and coaches Bailie and Whyte were delighted by the skills and attitude of the entire North Down squad.

Player of the tournament - Jonny Calvin

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:: U15 Training Cancelled Tonight

By P Whyte
14/04/2008

Please note that the U15 training tonight has been cancelled. The last training session of the year will be next Monday and as this is the last before the plate final a full attendance is required.

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:: Andy Forrest strikes gold in Edinburgh

By Laura Clarke
13/04/2008

Congratulations to Andy Forrest who picked up a gold medal at the British University Championships in Edinburgh with Northern Ireland Universities. After drawing with Wales in their first game Northern Ireland inflicted a shock 3-2 defeat on their English counter parts with Andy scoring the winner. With a win required in their final game to ensure the gold medal against pre tournament favourites Scotland, the Northern Ireland boys romped to victory with an emphatic 5-0 win as Andy grabbed a brace.

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:: thirds complete league programme

By sam pyper
12/04/2008

The 3’s hosted Annadale in the last rearranged fixture in the season. ND stood 2nd in Junior 4 a solitary point ahead of Mossley who had Raphoe to play on the same day and Ballynahinch the following week. Nothing but a win would do for the Comber side and fingers were crossed for Mossley to slip up with a draw for a playoff or better a loss for a ND promotion to Junior 3.
With injuries & work commitments from the teams above the 3’s were without regulars Nicholls, Shannon and Dazell for most of the game leaving opportunities for McKee, McGreevy and young Matthew Wilson to make an impression.
ND did not start well with the 4 man midfield unsure who was marking who. Annadale won 5 short corners in the first five minutes and managed to convert the last. Annadale were clearly up for it and ND had a job on their hands. Possession was lost too much in midfield however some good attacking play soon brought the hosts level through Pyper. McKee soon made it 2-1 with a great finish and how McGreevy missed on the goal line after Pyper had the keeper beaten was beyond the other ND players.
After the break ND controlled the game with G.Wilson putting in a great performance at the back and Rutherford commanding the midfield. Young Wilson did well in the second half on the right with a good passing display linking with Walls. ND continued to press seeking a third and it was McGreevy who did just that making up for his first half blunder with a neat finish. With ten minutes to go ND should of killed the game off but Annadale forward nicked in at the back post to deflect a shot past Parson. Nothing much the ND keeper could do.
With 5 minutes to go Annadale surprised the visitors with the equaliser, a replica of their previous goal. Parsons was livid at the ND defence. It looked as though ND had blown any promotion chances with the umpire signalling for 2 minutes remaining. ND pressed hard right to the end and in the final minute of the match a saved flick from Dazell landed at the feet of Shannon infront of goal. The 20+ goal scorer for the season has scored some vital goals this year and none more so than the winner to make it 4-3. Composed and collected Shannon picked his spot and made sure all the pressure was on Mossley.
Man of the match – Gavin Wilson
Thanks to Colin and Davy for umpiring and all the support from ND ladies on the sideline spurring us on.
As it turned out Mossley were gifted 2 points and perhaps promotion as Raphoe had a no show. Lets hope Ballynahinch stay out of the drop zone and get a result at the Glade on Saturday.

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:: Unbeaten run ends

By robin mitchell
12/04/2008

North Down travelled to Raphoe on Saturday hoping to extend their unbeaten run against the league leaders but returned disappointed following a 4-1 defeat
Raphoe exerted the early pressure and after 10 minutes the North Down defence was caught in possession and Raphoe coolly took the lead through Patterson.With the North Down defence at sixes and sevens Raphoe extended their lead when Patterson was allowed to waltz through and score.North Down best move of the half involved the Forrest brothers who combined only to see Andys reverse effort blocked.
The second half showed some improvement in their performance and after 5 minutes Linter reduced the arrearsFollowing good work by Bailie and Wright..Some 10 minutes later Coates made an outstanding double save at a short corner and was unluckly to see Patterson score the rebound.Coates was having an outstanding game and on a number of occasions made point blank saves to keep his side in the game.The game was virtually over when Wright and then McMillan got yellow cards for rather inaucious fouls.Raphoe played out time with the extra men and Corry scored a unstoppable reverse shot right on fool time to give Raphoe a deserved 4-1 victory.

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:: North Down 2nds Draw & Lose.....

By KM
12/04/2008

The 2nds entertained Banbridge 3rds on Wed 09/04/2008 at Comber leisure centre in a re-arranged junior one fixture. Bann fielding an entirely different squad to that which hammered the Comber lads back in October started the better side. However, North Down somewhat rusty from a lack of games soon started to dominate play. Against play Bann opened the scoring but it was North Down who controlled the game and were to lead by 2-1 with goals from Colin Mockford and Ricky McMillan. The Comber lads created many chances but as so often this season squandered chance after chance. In the Bann goal Aaron Appleton was in excellent form and was evidently one of the busiest players on the pitch making some fantastic saves. With three minutes to go Bann with their third attack of the entire game scored to bring the score lines level. F/T 2-2. North Down were bitterly disappointed with this result.
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On Saturday the 2nds travelled to high flying Banbridge 2nds. Bann strengthened with the presence of Drew Carlisle etc dominated the majority of the match albeit they had only a small number of shots on the North Down goal. North Down under pressure for most of the game created the greater number of goal scoring opportunities but yet again they went amiss at great cost. Bann scrambled home the only goal of the encounter from a short corner to take the two points. Thanks to the four North Down lads who turned up for the 2nds at short notice due to a number of cry offs..... F/T 1-0

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:: Fifths in Cup Final

By PW
10/04/2008

The mens fifths progressed to the final of the Strabane Cup with a comfortable 3-1 victory over Down at Comber LC last night.

In front of a good crowd North Down stared on fire and dominated their neighbours, Down, early on. Their pressure was rewarded when a great ball from Peter Shields was converted expertly by George Harper who ghosted in at the back post. Despite creating several other oppurtunities North Down could not add to their total and were punished when in a rare attack Down converted a short corner. The game was marred at this stage by several off the ball incidents that led to the game becoming scrappy. Following a melee Gavin Rodgers and two Down players were sent to the sin bin. This incident seemed to settle both sides down and when the game got back to being about hockey North Down continued to press but could not make the pressure count and the scores remained level at half time.

The second half continued in the same vein as the first with North Down in control of the game. The pressure finally told when Ryan Donaldson calmly converted a broken down short at the back post. North Down learnt their lesson from the first half and despite provocation from Down concentrated on their hockey. This led to the best goal of the game with Andy Haire deflecting a shot from George Harper into the net following a flowing passing move. This was a deserved goal from Andy who had received some harsh treatment from the Down players. North Down proceede to kill the remainder of the game.

This was a good performance from the fifths and they will be confident of lifting some silverware when they play South Antrim in the final.

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:: Tonights Entertainment

By PW
09/04/2008

For those not watching Man Utd's inevitable march to Champions League glory this evenening there is a feast of hockey at Comber Leisure Centre. At 19:15 the mens seconds will be taking on Banbridge thirds and at 20:30 the mens fifths wll play Downpatrick thirds in the Strabane Cup semi-final. Two very important games so get down and support your club.

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:: nine in a row

By robin mitchell
05/04/2008

North down won their ninth game in a row when they defeated newry 5-1 at Kilkeel on Friday evening.
Coach Johnston had to reorganise his team with the unavailability of three of his players..North Down took the lead after 6 minutes when Keith drove the ball into the circle and the Newry keeper attempted to clear only for the ball to stick in his feet.Bailie was first to react and he shot home.North down were getting caught in possession and Newry won a corner after 12 minutes which Holmes expertly converted..Play swung from end to end with both sides creating chances.One minute from half time Willis gave North Down the lead when he scored following a goalmouth scramble.
Early in the second period Coates made a fine save to keep his side in front..North Down increased their lead after 8 minutes.Willis won the ball in midfield and quickly slipped the ball to Forrest who flicked past the advancing keeper.Newry began to tire and North Down dominated play.However the Newry keeper made a number of fine saves to keep the scoreline respectable.North Down scored a flukey fourth goal when a Keith free seemed to hit Bailie before entering the net.Newry won a short corner and Coates made a fine stick save.Forrest completed the scoring with minutes to go when he converted a short corner

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:: thirds defeat league leaders

By sam pyper
05/04/2008

The 3s hosted league winners South Antrim at Comber on Saturday. With Mossley dropping a point last week, this left ND 1 point behind them with 2 games left. Mossley with an extra game in hand were awarded 2 points as Portrush had a no show. It was therefore vital that ND took all the points to keep in with a shout for promotion.
The game started with ND dominating most of the play with Walls and Johnson controlling a 4 man midfield, however ball speed, decision making and passing was not up to standard and the ND defence were called upon against a strong Antrim side. ND had some great chances with Nicholls and Dazell working well on the wings and winning short corners. South’s goal line stood strong from the traditional stop and hit and took a smart variation to break the deadlock through Johnson. ND continued to press with Pyper and Shannon coming close. ND soon made it 2 when Keith came off the bench to make an immediate impact to deflect a cross past the stranded Antrim keeper. ND went into the break deservedly 2 to the good.
After the break play was much of the same with the ND defence holding strong with Bruce and Nicholson making some excellent tackles. With continuous pressure down the right wing a loose ball was picked up by McMullan who put Johnson through for his second, and a short corner from Pyper made it 4-0. ND seemed to be cruising however, South Antrim soon showed why they sat at the top of the table and with some good attacking play and slack ND defending, they converted 3 identical short corners. Following a similar pattern as the previous game, ND must rethink their strategy in defensive short corner plays.
ND’s impressive hold on the game deteriorated as South pressed for the equaliser and there was a huge relief when the whistle blew for full time at 4-3.
Thanks to Roger & Keith for umpiring.
Man of the match – Paul Johnson

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:: Baby Shields has Arrived

By CEdgar
04/04/2008

Congratulations to Peter & Claire Shields.
Baby James Patrick Shields weighed in at 9lbs 4oz early this morning 04-04-08
Mother and Baby doing well-apparently Father is exhausted!!!

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:: U15's Plate Semi

By P Whyte
02/04/2008

The boys U15s will be playing at Comber LC on Wednesday night against Lisnagarvey in the U15 plate semi final. This should be an excellent game of hockey and all support will be welcome.

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:: U15's Qualify for Final in Thriller

By P Whyte
02/04/2008

The boys U15's qualified for the Ulster Plate final with an exciting 5-4 win over Lisnagarvey A at Comber LC last night.

In a game that they were never behind in North Down took the lead early on when Tom Donnan seized on a poor clearance and set up Stephen Forrest who calmy slotted the ball past the Garvey keeper. Garvey responded almost immediately with an almost identical score following poor play out of defence by North Down. The game settled into a midfield battle after this with the pacey North Down forwards giving their team the slight edge. Following some more good play North Down won a short that was conerted brilliantly by David Shepherd. However almost immediatley Garvey responded as North Down failed to learn from their earlier mistake and again gave the ball away in a poor position and were punished. The game continued at frenetic pace and Paul Ritchie began to control proceedings stepping up from the back to supplement the midfield. Following a great run by Paul he expertly converted a goal he created himself thanks to excellent umpiring. The score remained 3-2 to half time.

The second half picked up from where the first half finished with the game played at great pace. North Down opened up a two goal cushion when Stephen Forrest, who led the line superbly all night, scored his second of the evening. Howevere Garvey showed great fighting spirit to fight their way back into the game with two excellent goals. North Down did not let their heads drop and got just reward for their excllent workrate when with ten minutes to go David Shepherd converted a reverse stick shot following a broken down short. This was a great piece of individual skill and thoroughly deserved to be the winning goal as it indeed proved to be.

This was a great game of hockey played by two teams looking to play fast, constructive hockey. North Down will now go on to play Lisnagarvey B in the final.

Player of the Match - Paul Ritchie

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:: Men's 5th XI reinstated in Cup

By Jim Patterson
29/03/2008

Subject to Branch Council approval next week, the 5th XI will be reinstated in their cup competition following 'irregularities' in the registrations of at least two of the teams who previously had qualified for the semi final stages of the competition. Deary me, who would have thought that such a thing could happen in local hockey, 1st XI captains registered for 2nd XIs etc, where will it all end?

The 5ths will play Down 3rds on 9 April, venue to be confirmed.

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:: Men firsts win at Portadown

By robin mitchell
29/03/2008

North Down travelled to Portadown on Saturday and in atrocious conditions defeated the locals 2-1.This was not North Downs best performance of the year by a distance and coach Johnston was happy just to scramble all 3 points.
Portadown were first out of the blocks and took the lead after 2 minutes.The ball was crossed from the left and poor marking in the circle allowed Gregg to score on the reverse.Portadown continued on the ascendancy winning a number of corners which North Down managed to keep out.Over elaborate play saw them give the ball away needlessly.Forrest made a fine run winning a corner.His effort was saved but Bailie was on hand to slam home the rebound after 25 minutes.
The second half saw some improvement in North Down play.They began to create chances but they were not clinical in front of goalForrest scored the all important goal after 50 minutes when he expertly scored from a short corner.Bailie had a great chance to make the game safe but his effort from in front of goal was scrambled clear.In the final minutes Portadown won a series of corners and Coates and his defence had to be on their toes to keep them out.
An important win but a disappointing performance.

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:: Thirds stay on track

By sam pyper
29/03/2008

The 3’s travelled to Service on Friday night looking to keep the pressure on Mossley for promotion in 2nd place. The game proved to be trickier than expected with a few ‘unfamiliar’ faces in the Service side that didn’t make the Comber fixture earlier in the season. After bright spells from ND it was Service who opened the scoring with a neatly taken goal from the edge of the area. ND continued to press with Shannon putting one over the bar from a defence splitting ball from Nicholson.
Dazell on the right wing won a short corner of which Pyper slotted home to equalise. ND continued to attack with Nicholls causing all sorts of problems in the area. It was Service who took the lead through a short corner which should of been cleared off the post from ND back line. ND got right back in it from a great reverse finish from Nicholls and went into the break tied.
ND came out for the second half and had some good possession, but basic stopping and passing was poor all over the park. This improved for a spell with Johnson and Nicholls working a good partnership on the right. Dazell popped up to put the visitors one up in a goal mouth scrap and Nicholls made it 4-2 with a good finish. At this stage ND should have been in control, however passes went astray and some good attacking play from the hosts earned them another short corner. A replicate of their first short corner found the back board and Caldwell should have done better. Minutes later ND give away another short corner and once again for the third time in the game the same routine equalised making it 4-4 with 15mins to go.
A point was simply not good enough for ND and they continued to search for the winner. A scrap in the Service area wasn’t cleared sufficiently and much to the surprise of the ND players McMullan raced into the D to pick up the loose ball and finish in the corner for the winner.
FT 5-4 win ND
Man of the match Melvin Nicholls

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:: U13 Cup Semi-Final report

By Keith Conway
27/03/2008

The under 13's hosted Armagh on Sunday in the semi final of the cup and were unfortunate to lose by 1 goal to nil.
The game started at a high tempo with North Down controlling the midfield and creating some early chances. However with all their possesion North Down could not turn this to goals. With Conor Millar marking the Armagh danger man out of the game, the majority of play was in the middle of the park, with few clear scoring chances for either team.
The turning point of the game came with 3 minutes to go to half time. Andrew McKibben playin at sweeper took a ball to the ankle and had to leave the field for treatment. During this time Armagh attacked down the right and crossed to the top of the circle, were a quick shot crashed into the net giving the unsighted McSherry in goal no chance.
The second half started with early chances for both teams, but poor finishing kept the score in favour of Armagh. North Down picked up the pace and piled the pressure on the Armagh defence with Conor Millar and Philip Wilson causing them all sorts of problems. North Down won a series of short corners but could not convert them to goals. As the final whistle blew, North Down won a penalty corner knowing they needed to score to send the game to extra time. The ball was switched to the right and played back to Jamie Hunter who saw his shot go inches wide into the side of the net, giving Armagh the win and passage to the final.

A dissapointing result but the boys can hold their heads up after a superb performance against a team much bigger than them.
Man of the match was Conor Millar

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:: Junior Schools Cup Success for Zara

By T Ritchie
27/03/2008

Well done to Zara Millar who was part of the successful Strathearn team that won the junior schools cup recently. This is a great achievement for Zara and all in the club would like to say congratulations.

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:: Youth Hockey Back

By P Whyte
27/03/2008

Youth hockey returns for all starting on Friday night after the Easter break. There is still much to play for with the U14 girls through to their finals day and the U15 boys in the plate semi-final. Training recommences with the U12 and U14 girls in Friday from 19.00-20.00, the minis on Sunday from 13.00-14.00 and the boys U13 and U15's on Monday from 18.00-19.00.

See you there.

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:: U14 girls make it nine out of nine

By P Whyte
27/03/2008

The U14 girls extended their winning streak to nine games this year with a 5-3 defeat of local rivals Ards.

This was a great game of hockey with both temas playing positively and going for the win. Ards started the stronger and scored first but North Down showed their fighting spirit to move into a 2-1 lead. Ards responded and the score was 2-2 at half time. In the second half North Down upped their game and created many scoring opportunities. The eventually ran out 5-3 winners.

Goal scorers wer Jenna Hoeyx2, Zara Millar, Chloe Brown and Natasha Roy.

Player of the Match: Rebecca Hatty

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:: NEW STOCK OF CLUB KIT AT PREMIER SPORTS

By Jim Patterson
21/03/2008

Premier Sports (at their new address of 70 Castle Street) in Comber have just taken delivery of a new stock of Club kit such as jackets, hoodies, ladies' fleeces etc. All sizes are currently available but everything is on a first come, first served basis as there won't be another delivery of Club kit until September. Even if you don't need any North Down gear at the moment there's lots of other stuff so why not pop in to Peter and Claire's new shop and have a browse?

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:: Youth Hockey Break

By P Whyte
16/03/2008

There will be no Monday night training for the boys U13's and U15's for the next two weeks due to St Patricks Day and Easter. The minis will not be on next week (Easter Sunday) but will recommence the week after. Happy Easter to everybody.

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:: 1ST XI CRUISE THROUGH AT SOUTH ANTRIM

By Jim Patterson
16/03/2008

North Down 1st XI continued on their winning ways running in seven goals away to South Antrim in Lisburn last Saturday. The 1st XI have now scored an impressive 44 goals in their last 7 games and, as ever, it was Andy Forrest to the fore repeating his hat-trick earlier in the season against the Lisburn side.

North Down stamped their authority on the game early on when Forrest finished a good move by flicking the ball over the stranded South Antrim keeper. The home team was well in the game at this stage but never looked as if they would trouble the North Down defence and went further behind when Richard Willis drove home the second goal into the corner of the net following a cross from Ross Linter. Young Linter himself instigated the move which then led to the third goal soon afterwards. A series of quick passes led to a shot on goal which the keeper saved but Linter, who can’t stop scoring now, was on hand to reverse flick in the rebound making it 3 – 0 to North Down at half time.

South Antrim hit back on 42 minutes when a long ball from McCandless found Greg Campbell in the North Down circle. For once the defence was all at sea and the striker turned the ball into the net for a simple goal. However, North Down settled the issue with two good goals minutes later both following fine inter passing play. On 48 minutes, Peter Shields squared the ball across the circle when well placed himself for Andy Forrest to drive home and 2 minutes later Richard Willis supplied the pass for Forrest to complete his hat-trick.

Gareth Bailie completed the scoring for North Down with 2 late goals. His first came following a short corner when he deflected in a strike at the far post and his second came following another flowing attacking move which led to an untidy goalmouth melee and Gareth was on hand to bundle the ball over the line. The victory moves the Comber side into 4th position in Senior One with only 4 games remaining.

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:: Club Captain grabs late winner for Inst 2nds at Comber

By Chuck
15/03/2008

North Down 2nds hosted Junior One league leaders Inst 2nds on Saturday in the late slot at Comber leisure Centre. Inst fielded a strong side with Stephen Symington, Chris Barnes, Gavin Currie and Chris Kirk to the fore whilst the home side had to cope with a number of key players crying off through work and injury at the last minute. It was the Comber side; however that had the better start and forced Seay in the away goal to make a good save. In fact North Down created numerous chances in the opening exchanges but couldn't execute the finish. Inst started to get to grips with the game and Greg Frizelle fresh from scoring a winning penalty stroke for Inst 3rds against North Down 3rds the week previous started to dominate the midfield slot. Inst showed why they sit top of the league and demonstrated clinical finishing in the circle. They grabbed a 1-0 lead with their first shot of the game and soon increased it to 2-0 despite Mark Parsons making an excellent first time save. The Inst forwards just reacting the quicker. Inst applied all the pressure at this stage but North Down were always dangerous on the counter against a makeshift Inst defence which was missing Cooke and Hollway. Inst increased their lead with another fine goal to make the score line 3-0. North Down despite the deficit continued to create chances on the Inst goal but simply couldn't hit home. An excellent effort left a hapless Seay stranded as the ball hit the upright. Just prior to half time Ricky McMillan hammered the ball high into the Inst net past an unsighted keeper to reduce the score line to 3-1.
North Down started the stronger outfit and forced a couple of saves from the Inst custodian after the restart. Indeed the North down youngsters were getting plenty of mileage out of a slow Inst defence with direct running attacking hockey. Stephen Magee always a pain to any defence was causing all sorts of difficulties for the away rearguard and won a short corner off Currie. North Down were forced to adopt a new short corner routine due to so many players missing and they reduced Inst's lead to one goal after Magee slammed home his effort past a rigid Seay in goal. North Down sensed Inst were nervous and again it was Magee who beat Seay with a thunderous shot from the top of the circle leaving the keeper with no chance to bring the score line level. Inst were making mistake after mistake under pressure and went from a team encamped in the North Down half to one that had eleven men behind the ball. However, with the talent and drive in this Inst side they again displayed why they are top of the league. They dug deep and started to force their less experienced opposition back. Symington and Kirk coming to the fore in their hour of need. Indeed Barnes had a number of short corners saved by Parsons as Inst started to dominate and push forward. With six minutes to go Scotty Moore in a swift counter attacking move lost his centre back marker to be one on one with the keeper who made an excellent save from the youngster to keep his side in it. When it looked like a draw was going to be the order of the day Inst were awarded a short corner which Inst club captain Chris Barnes duly dispatched to the jubilation of the away side. With only a couple of minutes remaining on the clock North Down simply didn't have enough to react and were bitterly disappointed at what was felt to be a point dropped. F/T 3-4.
This was a fine display of hockey by both sides and it will be good experience for a number of the North Down youngsters being able to play against experienced players of high calibre.

Thanks to Pete & Nigel for umpiring.

Man of the Match – Colin Mockford

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:: ISLAND HILL CASTAWAY - HELEN MCGAUGHEY

By Man Friday
12/03/2008

In the last of our present series, today's castaway on Island Hill's sunny shores is ladies' 2nd XI star Helen McGaughey.

Which 10 records would you bring?

1 Don't stop me now - Queen
2 Right here waiting - Richard Marx
3 All Westlife albums
4 Time of my life - Bill Medley & Jennifer Warnes
5 I'm already there - Lonestar
6 Hate that I love you - Rhianna ft Ne-Yo
7 Alone - Heart
8 You raise me up - Josh Groban
9 Like a prayer - Madonna
10 I believe in you - Il Divo

And which 3 movies on DVD would you like?

1 The Bourne Trilogy
2 The Thomas Crowne Affair (Pierce Brosnan version)
3 Ocean's Eleven

A favourite book?

A time to kill - John Grisham

Whose sports result would you look for in the Sunday Desert Island Times?

Ulster Rugby and Liverpool.

Who would you like to be washed up beside you on the beach?

New Zealand fly-half Dan Carter!

Thanks to Helen and all of the other castaways who took part. Have to stop now as Island Hill is getting too crowded!

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:: Ladies 2nds earn local bragging rights after beating Ards

By LC
06/03/2008

North Down 2nds 2-0 Ards 2nds

Last Wednesday night North Down 2nds picked up three valuable points in a well-contested derby against the old foe Ards. The Comber girls started brightly and controlled the game for the opening ten minutes. However after looking fairly comfortable North Down lost their way a little and found themselves under pressure. Too often they became bogged down on the left hand side and could have gone behind only for some resolute defending from the ever reliable Ann McBride and young Louise Speers. Things were very crowded in the middle of the pitch with the play becoming fairly scrappy at times and little flowing hockey being played as a result.
With the match still scoreless at half time the home side looked to employ a more expansive style of play that would suit their quick forwards and skilful players in midfield. This ploy seemed to be a success as North Down pinned Ards back in their own half for long periods as Hannah McKee and Laura Clarke controlled the pace of the game and fellow midefielder Julie Fisher made probing runs into the Ards circle on numerous occasions. It was from of the runs by Fisher that North Down final broke the deadlock. Fisher evaded several tackles before the visiting keeper saved her effort. However Ashleigh Carr was on hand to tuck the ball into the back of the net from a tight angle.
North Down continued to press forward and showed a lot of confidence to move the ball around for long periods and let Ards chase the game. The second goal followed shortly after when McKee was fouled just outside the 25’, from the resulting free Clarke picked out Fisher who at full stretch managed to divert the ball into the net for a well-taken goal. This was a deserved win for this more settled 2nds squad whose performances have dramatically improved in recent weeks which has been reflected in recent results. Thanks to Beverly for umpiring. Player of the Match Julie Fisher.

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:: ISLAND HILL CASTAWAY - JIM PATTERSON

By Man Friday
05/03/2008

This week's castaway on sun drenched Island Hill is Club Secretary Jim Patterson.

Which 10 favourite records would you bring?

1 Wonderful Land - The Shadows
2 Another Brick in the Wall - Pink Floyd
3 Nessun Dorma - Pavarotti
4 Paranoid - Black Sabbath
5 Fields of Fire - Big Country
6 Brown Sugar - Rolling Stones
7 Radar Love - Golden Earring
8 Won't get Fooled Again - The Who
9 Teenage Kicks - The Undertones
10 Black Magic Woman - Santana

And 3 favourite movies on DVD?

1 It's a mad mad mad world.
2 Billy Elliott
3 A Beautiful Mind

A favourite book to bring?

Puckoon by Spike Milligan

Whose sports result would you look for in the Sunday Desert Island Times newspaper?

Northern Ireland's latest victory!

Which person would you like to be washed up on the beach beside you?

Joanna Lumley!

Next week's castaway, and the last in the present series, will be Helen McGaughey.

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:: Derby match against Ards for Ladies 2nds

By
04/03/2008

The ladies 2nds face local rivals Ards tomorrow night (Wednesday 5th) at Comber Leisure Centre. With ladies training cancelled because of this fixture the girls would appreciate your support for this local derby! Pass back is at 7.15pm.

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:: U13 Through to Cup Semi

By Keith Conway
03/03/2008

The U13's defeated Annadale by two goals to nil at Comber on Sunday to progess to the semi-final of the U13 cup for the second year in a row.

This was a close game against a good Annadale side but North Down had the edge throughout the game and thoroughly deserved their win. North Down began the game on top and got rewarded for early pressure when Philip Wilson set of on an incredible run from the halfway line. Leaving several players in his wake he rounded the keeper to score an excellent individual goal. North Down further increased their lead through captain Connor Millar. His shot from the top of the circle hit the post, and while other players froze Connor reacted to the rebopund to put north Down two goals clear. Annadane came into the game after this and it took a wonder save from Chris McSherry to leave the score 2-0 at half time.

In the second half Annadale continued to pressure the North Down goal but the defence were determined not to concede and Daniel Lavery in particular was superb in this half. North Down were also creating oppurtunites with the direct running and skills of Phlip Wilson causing all sorts of problems for the Anndale defence. Another couple of saves from Chris McSherry kept his goal in tact and North Down saw the game out.

This was an excellent performance that left coaches Keith Conway and Ross Linter delighted with the standard of ability shown by all the players. Player of the match - Daniel Lavery

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:: U14 Boys Lisnagarvey Tournament

By Peter Whyte
03/03/2008

On Sunday the U14 boys went to Garvey to play the home team and Three Rock Rovers in a tournament.

The boys first game was against Three Rock and the boys played some excellent hockey to win 5-0. The boys attacking play in particular had a real cutting edge to it. The goals were scored by Mark Simpson (2), Stephen Forrest, Stephen Campbell and Tom Donnan. Tom was excellent throughout this game and he controlled the midfeld area superbly delivering quality ball after quality ball to the forwards. He was ably assisted by David Shepherd who supported the midfield from sweeper and made a couple of excellent runs that showed his undoubted ability. Keeper Adam Drakelee had to be on his toes on a couple of ocassions but his calmness in his kicking gave the rest of the defence a lot of confidence and they allowed Three Rock only the ocassional sight of goal.

The boys knew the second game against the hosts would be a much more difficult encounter. North Down stared this game the brighter and took the lead from a great strike at a shot corner from Stephen Campbell. After this Garvey dominated the remaider of the game. However North Down stood up to the pressure well and the defence of Welsh, Henderson, Russell and Drakelee (with some excellent saves) were well marshalled by David Shepherd. Eventually the pressure told and Garvey scored two well worked goals to take the match 2-1.

All the boys played well in this tournament with their attacking play showing real penetration and the workrate of the boys excellent. Player of the tournament - Tom Donnan and David Shepherd (to close to call!!)

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:: North Down Stroll to Easy Victory

By Robin Mitchell
01/03/2008

North Down travelled to Ards on Friday evening to play Down.In atrocious conditions they secured a comfortable 6-0 victory although the standard of play at times deteriorated with the weather.
North Down opened at a furious pace and Down struggled to get a touch of the ball in the early minutes.Speers opened the scoring after 7 minutes when he scored from a short corner.Straight from the hit off Conway found Forrest with an overhead and he rounded his marker before supplying Willis with a simple tap in.It looked as if the flood gates would open but credit to Down who defended stoutly for the remainder of the half.>However North Down created a number of chances but poor finishing allowed Down to keep them out.
The second half was only minutes old when Speers got his second.Mark Forrest found Speers free at the top of the circle and he beat the keeper with a reverse shot.Two minutes later the Forrest brothers combined to give Mark a tap in..North Down introduced some of their young players to give them some senior experience and they did not look out of place.Colin Morrison was solid at the back and Under 16 international Paul Ritchie always had time on the ball.Andrew Caldwell deputising for Ulster keeper Andy Coates did not have a save to make..The Down goal had a number of narrow escapes both from open play and corners.With 12 minutes remaining Ross Linter scored his first senior goal when he was on hand to hammer home a Forest cross.Seven minutes later Andy Forrwst scored the sixth from a corner variation.Andy has created a new club scoring record with goals in each of his last 12 games.He is also closing in on Peter Shields and Darrren Rices record of 36 goals in a season..
Coach Paul Johnston was concerned at injuries picked up by Shields and Willis but hopefully both will be available for next weeks game

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:: 2nds beaten by league leaders.

By KM
01/03/2008

The seconds travelled to Junior one league leaders Instonians 2nds on Saturday and returned to Comber beaten 5-1. The Comber lads started the better and the Inst keeper was forced to make a fine save from a Magee short corner within the first two minutes. Inst with veteran Neil Cooke and Robert Holloway at the back started to control and hammered out some pin point passes from the back to their front men. Inst with all the pressure opened the scoring with a scrambled effort past MacArthur. North Down again struggling on a fine water based pitch eventually started to get to grips with the pitch and carved open a few chances only to see the opportunities missed. Inst again had their keeper to thank with an excellent save from a Magee short corner. The half closed with Inst leading 1-0.
The second half opened with Inst scoring in the first thirty seconds with a fine goal. North Down again created chances intercepting wayward passes from some poor Holloway clearances but again the Comber lads couldn't execute. Inst on the other increased their lead to three with another good goal. Some poor discipline by Aaron Gill almost resulted in a facial injury to Keith Haslett and early bath but the matter was soon forgotten and Inst were back on their way with another goal to make it four. Peter Whitten blasted home a goal for the away side past a hapless keeper to reduce the arrears. Inst restored parity when they hammered home number five. Again North Down created chances but simply could not score. Inst played the game out winning 5-1. This was a dour and flat game of hockey with little to offer the spectator. Inst will be happy regardless securing another two points in their quest for the league. For North Down this was a poor day at the office with little positive to take away especially after the wins over Annadale and Lisnagarvey 2nds. North Down face Newry 2nds at Comber next Saturday and a better all round performance is demanded. F/T 5-1
Man of the Match - Keith Haslett

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:: 3rds edged out of cup in strokes...

By Rusty
01/03/2008

The thirds faced an experienced Instonians side at Comber Leisure centre on Saturday in the cup. The thirds fielding a young side were confident that they could give there opponents a good run for their money. This despite Inst fielding one or two players who had played in Junior league one earlier in the day. Inst started the stronger and it took some time for the North Down midfield to get to grips with the game and the positioning of the Inst umpire Bill Harvey who was more often than not caught up in the middle of play much to the amusement of the sidelines. Walls’ working hard in the middle of the park was starting to get the better of his much more experienced opponent and Piper was starting to get some mileage out of the Inst defence with the odd half chance on goal. Inst with some talented players on show took the lead with a fine goal leaving Parsons in the home goal no chance. This was a typical cup match flowing from end to end but it was Inst who were able to close out the half 1-0.
The second half started at a frantic pace with both sides looking to dominate. North Down started to create a lot of chances and Inst were clearly dangerous on the break. Andrew Shannon had an excellent opportunity to bring the scores level but he missed the ball when unmarked at the back post. Melvyn Nichols was proving to be a real handful for the Inst defence and the youngster was creating chance after chance but North Down couldn't find that all important goal. Ben King continued with his fine form and had to be on his toes in order to snuff out any dangerous counter attacks by some talented Inst forwards. Some excellent build up play by Nicholls and Shannon and a defensive mistake by the Inst sweeper allowed ‘Rusty’ Piper to hammer the ball home into the roof of the Inst net to level the scores. Melvyn Nichols had an excellent effort saved by an equally excellent save when he attempted to round the keeper. Some last ditch defending by Inst negated any chance of North Down taking the lead and the match went into extra time at 1-1.
Inst were the quicker out of the blocks and Parsons had to use all his experience to keep some excellent Inst efforts on his goal out. The game was going from end to end and as player got tired more and more mistakes were being made. Both teams had chances to win the contest and nothing could separate the sides. In the second period of extra time inst were awarded a penalty stroke. Up stepped the big sweeper wearing number 13 and in an effort to make amends for his earlier mistake that allowed North Down to score he struck the post. It defiantly was unlucky 13 for him. The match was played out in the same vain as it had started with it flowing from end to end. The dreaded penalty strokes lottery now loomed. Inst opted for the experienced player to take theirs and North Down for the youngster route. With both teams scoring three each North Down faltered and Inst took the lead. Again North Down faltered and for the second time in the match up stepped number 13 for Inst who flicked home to take the match.
North down played well in this encounter and the young players will learn form such experiences and move on. They can now focus on their goal of promotion and hope there is no cup hangover. For the spectator this was an excellent cup match by two committed sides and was thoroughly enjoyed.
Man of the match - Melvyn Nichols.

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:: U12 Tournament Report

By H McGaughey
29/02/2008

Spirits were high following recent training sessions as the girls took part in their 4th tournament of the season. The first match of the day against Victorians resulted in the girls playing their best and most competitive game of the season. Rolb and Elliott in particular stood out with superb attacking and defensive roles respectively. Unfortunately Rolb would have broken the deadlock had it not been for the efforts of the Victorians GK. A 0-0 draw at the end meant that ND had earned their first competitive point of the season. Overall this was a brilliant result but also one which the girls’ effort deserved a little more. High in confidence the girls started their local derby against Ards just as they finished their previous match. In quite a frantic end to end encounter both sides showed good skill and ambition early on. Most pleasing was the link up play between the defence and forwards. As the pressure mounted it was a defensive error by the Ards GK that enabled Jones to pounce on the opportunity to give ND the lead. 1-0 up ND continued to push but in was an unlucky own goal that saw Ards draw level. With their confidence knocked Ards capitalised scoring 2 further goals in quick succession. Despite being 3-1 down ND fought back and with minutes to go a fierce strike by Rolb saw them pull one back. As time ran out ND had to reflect on a game of missed opportunities but once again their performance continued to improve. In the last match of the day the girls faced the daunting opposition of Armagh. Once again with new found determination and skill the girls fought hard for every ball despite having to defend for most of the match. Special mention must be given to Gilliland in defence and Whiteside in Goals who were both excellent. As Armagh became increasingly frustrated the possibility of a draw drew nearer only for Armagh to snatch victory with minutes to go.

Overall this was the girls’ best performance of the season by quite some distance. It was great to see the skills being taught on a Friday night finally come to fruition on the pitch.
Player of the tournament was Elliott.

Once again thanks to all the parents for their support and to Sharon McGaughey for her help in organising the girls.

Next Tournament March 9th 2008

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:: U14 Boys and Girls in Friendly Tournament

By P Whyte
28/02/2008

The U14 boys and girls sides will be in action this weekend as they take part in a three team tournament with Lisnagarvey and Three Rock Rovers from Dublin.

The tournament is being held at Lisnagarvey and runs from 2.00-4.00. This should be an excellent tournament and the standard of competition should be high. All support welcome.

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:: U13 Boys Cup Quarter- Final

By P Whyte
28/02/2008

The U13 boys have been drawn against Annadale in the quarter-finals of the cup. This will be a tough game for the boys and all support will be welcome. Pass back is 2.30 in comber. This match will be followed by the firsts playing a friendly against Ulster Juniors. So for a feast of hockey entertainment Comber is the place to be on Sunday.

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:: TODAY'S ISLAND HILL CASTAWAY - CLAIRE COEY

By Man Friday
27/02/2008

Today's castaway on the far flung sun drenched desert island of Island Hill is ace 1st XI ladies striker - Claire Coey.

Which 10 records would you have with you?

1 Don't Stop the Music/Get up an Drive/Umbrella - Rhianna
2 Crazy - Gnarls Barkley
3 Dreams Catch Me - Newton Faulkner
4 On and On - Jack Johnson
5 Nothing Compares to You - Stereophonics
6 Changes - Sugababes
7 Sexyback - Justin Timberlake
8 Dakota - Stereophonics
9 Walking on Broken Glass - Eurythmics
10 Cigarettes and Alcohol - Rod Stewart

Which 3 movies on DVD?

1 The Bourne Ultimatum
2 Dirty Dancing
3 Sex in the City (Box Set)

A favourite book?

The Da Vinci Code

Which sports result would you look for in the Sunday Desert Island Times newspaper?

I wouldn't!

Who would you like to be washed up on the beach beside you?

Sawyer from Lost (yum yum!)

Thanks Claire for taking the time to answer all the questions. Next week's castaway will be from one of the men's teams.

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:: Ladies 1st XI secure 3 points

By R Bill
25/02/2008

On Saturday North Down hosted Cookstown. North Down had a good start dominating the first 15 minutes. An early goal was disallowed due to the home team allegedly breaking the circle at a short corner. After this Cookstown built up some pace and came back strongly challenging the North Down defence. Lyne Greenwood, the player of the match, made countless vital tackles to keep Cookstown out of the North Down circle. However just before half-time Cookstown’s Laura Buchannon put the ball into the back of the net. H/T 0-1

Eight minutes after half-time Cookstown were 2-0 up. Nevertheless North Down kept their heads and showed what determination could do with captain Lynsey Stevenson scoring a great goal from a penalty corner. North Down went on to score two more goals within five minutes; one from Julie Fisher and the other by Claire Coey. The whole team played well as a unit, particularly in the second half and made sure they came out on top.

They are now placed third in the league table and have to win every match from now on to qualify for the play off's, but their heading in the correct direction.

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:: 2nds defeat Lisnagarvey 2nds

By KM
23/02/2008

The seconds defeated a strong Lisnagarvey second eleven side at Ards leisure centre on Saturday 3-2 with goals from Darren Rice (2) and Stevie Magee (1).

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:: Thirds Continue Winning Run

By Sam Pyper
23/02/2008

The 3s travelled to Parkview hoping to keep the pressure on at the top of the league. They knew it would be a tough game on the unfavoured gravel pitch and if the home game earlier in the season was anything to go by, it was sure to be a fiery affair.
ND started the brighter adapting their style of play to suit the bumpy pitch, with long balls driven into the danger area. Within 2 minutes they could have taken the lead through Rutherford who had a great shot tipped round the post. ND continued to attack Parkview’s goal area with numerous crosses coming through. Shannon came close on occasions but ND couldn’t break the deadlock. HT 0-0
Parkview came close early in the second half with a few short corners, given very dubiously by their own umpire after their striker on one occasion seemed to control the ball with his feet & chest. Surely a hit-out! These poor decisions angered the visiting team and skipper Pyper was warned for expressing his frustrations to the umpire. Once more and he would be off. ND desperate to get a win today pressed on goal and were solid at the back. Pyper had the last laugh as he struck a loose ball from the top of the circle past the Parkview keeper.
ND then held the ball up in midfield and tried to keep possession to run out the clock. In the last 15mins of the game, Parkview were irritated and continued to hack at ND central midfielder Walls. Determined to take him out of the game, a 50-50 ball was the ideal opportunity for Parkview, however with no intention to get the ball, Walls was up ended and Parkview midfielder shown a yellow card. Walls as usual picked himself up and battled on.
. F/T 1-0 Thanks to George Harper for umpiring.

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:: North Downs Goal Spree Continues

By Jim Patterson
23/02/2008

North Down and Belfast Harlequins who the previous week had scored an incredible 22 goals between them added another 10 to their combined tally last Saturday at Comber Leisure Centre but it was the home side who took the honours with yet another impressive victory over a team just above them in the league.

Harlequins started strongly and controlled play in the opening minutes only to go a goal behind after 9 minutes when a breakaway on the left flank by Ross Linter led to a cross which Mark Forrest swept past the Harlequins keeper. The visitors continued to dominate midfield but for all their possession they made no impact in the North Down circle and Andy Coates in goal was little more than an interested spectator. As the first half progressed, North Down slowly started to get to grips with the game and their patient build up play suddenly had Harlequins rocking with three goals in 8 minutes. On 24 minutes, Gareth Bailie forced the ball home after a defensive mix up, Peter Shields slammed home the third goal 4 minutes later and then Mark Forrest added his second on the 32nd minute leaving the score 4 - 0 to North Down at half time.

To their credit, Harlequins started the second half with renewed determination which paid off in the 39th minute when they were awarded a penalty stoke after a stick tackle by Patrick Wright but Andy Coates pulled off a great save diving to his right to keep his goal intact. Minutes later, Harlequins finally scored when Anderson drag flicked a shot from the first short corner of the game and on 54 minutes added a second from open play with the North Down defence for once showing hesitation in clearing their lines. On 57 minutes, North Down were awarded their first short corner of the game and when Harlequins failed to clear the ball immediately it broke to Richard Willis for the skipper to volley home from close range. Although the visitors added their third from another short corner drag flick by Anderson on the hour that was the end of their attempt to get back into the game. The last 10 minutes finished in a flurry of activity in the Harlequins half. In open play, Andy Forrest scored his first of the game to continue his consecutive scoring run and then deftly scored from a penalty stoke 2 minutes from the end after the ball stuck a Harlequins defender on the goal line. On the stroke of full time Andy Coates pulled off the save of the game diving to his right to prevent a further consolation goal for Harlequins who finished a very tired and beaten team.

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:: ISLAND HILL CASTAWAY - ANDY COATES

By Man Friday
20/02/2008

This Wednesday's castaway washed up on Island Hill's golden strand is men's 1st XI and now Senior Ulster goalkeeper Andy Coates!

Which 10 singles or album tracks would you like to have with you?

1 Something About You - Level 42
2 Adam's Song - Blink 182
3 I Don't Care - Transvision Vamp
4 My Way - Frank Sinatra
5 Sweet Child O'Mine - Guns n Roses
6 Let There Be Love - Nat King Cole
7 I Miss You - Blink 182
8 Dignity - Deacon Blue
9 Chasing Cars - Snow Patrol
10 Jessie - Joshua Kaddisson

And 3 favourite movies on DVD?

1 Pan's Labyrinth
2 Once Upon a Time in America
3 An Affair to Remember

A favourite book to bring?

The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafon

Whose sports result would you look for in the Sunday Desert Island Times newspaper?

QPR

And who would you like to have washed up on the beach beside you, apart from Mrs Coates of course?

Cameron Diaz!

Thanks Andy for taking part. Next week's castaway will be one of the ladies.

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:: ANDY FORREST SETS NEW CLUB SCORING RECORD

By Jim Patterson
19/02/2008

With his 4 goals last Saturday against Cliftonville, Andy Forrest has now scored in 11 consecutive matches - a Club record beating Stephen Magee's 9 in a row earlier in the season. His next target is Darren Rice's and Peter Shields' joint record of 36 in a season, Andy is currently on 25, 8 ahead of Sam Pyper and Stephen Magee.

For those interested, the all time North Down career goal scoring top 10 is:

1 222 Richard Glover
2 201 Jim Sloan
3 200 Colin Linter
4 173 Peter Shields
5 170 Ian Shields
6 165 Crosbie McVeigh
7 134 George Harper
8 125 Simon Hunter
9 125 Andrew McGimpsey
10 111 Sam Pyper

Others still active in the top 20 are:

13 103 Darren Rice
15 94 Richard Willis
16 89 David Donaldson
18 85 David Wishart
20 73 Johnny Gray

and closing in fast are Andy Forrest and Paul Johnston each with 71!

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:: 2nds defeat Annadale 2-1

By KM
16/02/2008

At last the seconds had a game of hockey to play. Having only played one match since the 29th December in the cup the seconds relished the opportunity of a run out. Playing Annadale seconds on an excellent water based pitch at Jordanstown was certainly going to blow the cob webs off. In the previous league encounter North Down felt somewhat hard done by when Annadale snatched a last minute equaliser to gain a 4-4 draw. The Comber lads started the sharper outfit and earned two quick short corners in the opening five minutes with the woodwork saving 'Dale from going one behind after Darren Rice hit the post. Annadale opting for a long ball game out of defence looked dangerous on the break with Paul Jackson the target man. In fact it was Jackson who earned his team a short corner which was slammed home inside the post to give Annadale the lead. North Down responded and had a goal from Peter Whitten disallowed after fellow striker Scott Moore touched the shot with his foot on the line. North Down applied the pressure to a shaky Annadale defence and capitalised time after time on defensive errors. The Annadale keeper made a fantastic save diving to his right to thwart Stevie Magee at a short corner, however, the later was not to be denied and had his revenge when he brought the sides level with a well taken effort. Annadale continuing to stick with their long ball strategy continued to be a dangerous side and the North Down defensive unit marshalled by Colin Mockford had to be on their toes throughout to negate any threat. H/T 1-1.
Annadale started well in the second period putting a hesitant North Down side under pressure. However, the Comber lads were soon to get back to into the groove and started to get a lot of mileage out of the Annadale right back who was having a poor game. North Down received free after free after continual infringements and deliberate break down of play by the same player. North Down winning their seventh short corner were to take a deserved lead when the Annadale defence made the assumption that Magee was going to flick the ball only to be caught out by a neat variation with Whitten which seen the ball slammed home by Magee. Annadale now forced to attack continually looked dangerous on the break with Connor Allison and Paul Jackson the target men. Mark Parsons in the away goal was called upon to make some excellent saves from some good Annadale play. At the other end a fine save by the Annadale keeper denied Magee from a sublime lob which looked to be a sure goal. The Annadale keeper had his post to thank again for denying North Down several minutes later. If any team looked like they were going to score again it looked like North Down on balance. North Down comfortably played out the remainder of the match to take the two points. Numerous players had good displays in this encounter especially Peter Whitten and Keith Haslett, however, it was an excellent squad effort and two well deserved points.
Man of the Match - Colin Mockford

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:: North Down in cruise control

By robin mitchell
16/02/2008

North Down secured their biggest ever win in Senior league when they defeated Cliftonville 12 -1
The result in no way reflects the game as Cliftonville were in the game at half time just trailing by the odd goal.
North Down started at a frantic pace and scored in the first minute through skipper Willis.The Forrest brothers combined to increase the lead in the 12 th minute..North Down continued to dominate but were unable to add to their lead.Cliftonville slowly clawed their way back into the game and 3 minutes from half time deservadly reduced the arrears through Cromwell.
The second was only minutes old when Speers increased the lead through a corner.After 10 minutes North Down were awarded a penalty after good work by the Forrest brothers.Andy duly converted.Speers was unlucky when he hit a post from a corner.Forrest claimed his hattrick following good work by brother Mark and Bailie.Forrest got his fourth minutes later when he scored from an acute angle.Shields had a goalbound effort stopped by a foot but Speers effort from the penalty spot was saved by the keeper.With 5 minutes remaining the keeper fouled Speers outside the circle and received his marching orders,Speers scored from the resulting cornerNorth Down had their tails up and added 5 goals in the final few minutes through Mark Forrest Willis 2 and Bailie 2.

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:: Garvey too strong for Ladies 1XI

By C. Coey
16/02/2008

On Saturday North Down IstXI played Senior 1 league leaders Lisnagarvey at home. Garvey are still the only team to defeat the North Down side this season in the league and unfortunately the Lisnagarvey team were again too strong for the Comber girls.

North Down started well, applying plenty of pressure to the Garvey defence and were unlucky to have a goal disallowed early on after good work from Lyne Greenwood allowed Claire Coey to convert a timely pass from Greenwood. This turned the game slightly and allowed Garvey who were very quick on the break to start playing some flowing attacking hockey. Excellent defensive work from player of match Fiona Ellis and sweeper Kathy Taylor kept the Garvey attack at bay but Janet McCutcheon broke the deadlock for Garvey after around 20 minutes quickly followed by Gemma McQueen to put Garvey 2-0 up at half time.

After the break North Down with certain postional changes applied plenty of pressure starting at right back with Laura Clarke attacking down the right and linking well with Rebecca Bill, Lynsey Stevenson and also Andrea Long who had an excellent game distributing the ball in centre midfield. Lack of fitness showed in the North Down side in the later part of the game allowing Garvey to extend their lead to 3-0 through a Jayne Clarke goal and if it wasn’t for De Costa in North Down goals being commanding and on form Garvey could have further extended the lead. North Down finally took advantage of a period of pressure and pulled a goal back through a penalty corner variation where Andrea Long fired the goal past the Garvey keeper. Garvey responded to this by instantly regaining their lead and leaving the final score 4-1 through a Lynne Anderson goal. However, North Down defence showed determination in the dying minutes to endure pressure from a string of penalty corners, where unfortunately Coey got carded for continually breaking the defensive line; From this result the Comber girls know they will need to improve both their fitness and game to win the remaining games of the season.

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:: PREVIOUS SENIOR ULSTER HONOURS

By Club Historian
15/02/2008

Further to the many requests for information following Andy Coates' long overdue promotion to the Senior Ulster squad ............... the last North Down player to represent Senior Ulster was Wally Boyce 52 years ago in 1955/56! ! ! He played 4 times.

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:: ISLAND HILL CASTAWAY - LAURA CLARKE

By Man Friday
13/02/2008

This week's castaway on that far flung desert island of Island Hill is ladies' 2nd XI star - Laura Clarke.

Which 10 records would you like to have with you?

1 Flying Without Wings - Westlife
2 The Time of my Life - B Medley and J Warnes
3 Sexyback - Justin Timberlake
4 Something Right - Westlife
5 Umbrella - Rhianna
6 Mr Brightside - The Killers
7 The Way I Are - Timbaland
8 Bullet In The Gun - Planet Perfecto
9 How To Be Dead - Snow Patrol
10 No Regrets - Robbie Williams

Which 3 movies on DVD?

1 The Bourne Ultimatum
2 Dirty Dancing
3 Oceans Eleven

A favourite book to bring?

Managing My Life by Alex Ferguson

Which sports result would you look for in the Sunday Desert Island Times newspaper?

Manchester United in winter and North Down CC in summer.

Who would you like to be washed up on the beach beside you?

Shane Filan of Westlife!

Thanks Laura for taking part. You now join a growing band of castaways.

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:: Irish Honours

By P Whyte
11/02/2008

Congratulations to Paul Ritchie who has been selected for the Irish u16's team to play England in a three game series in Dublin from 13th - 16th February. This is a fantastic achievement for Paul and just reward for all the hard work he has put in, particularly over the last few months. Credit must also be given to parents Terry and Debbie who have supported him every step of the way. On behalf of everyone at the club good luck for the matches coming up and well done on getting this far.

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:: U14 Girls Maintain Perfection

By T Ritchie
10/02/2008

The U14 girls have played two games over the last month and their record now stands at played eight, won eight.

Two weeks ago the girls played Lurgan and came away with a 5-0 triumph.

Last Sunday had a much tougher game against Lisnagarvey but emerged victorious 3-2 after an excellent game of hockey. The girls were mssing key player Chloe Brown due to injury and took time to settle as the team was rejigged. At half time they found themselves 2-0 down. Hoevere the second half was a different tale as the girls showed tremendous character to fight their way back into the game and win with two goals from Zara Millar and one from Judith Orr. While all the players excelled in the second half special mention must be given to Rebeccca Brown, Kathryn Rogers and Amy Benson who were excellent.

This wan excellent win for the girls showing that not only havey they great talent but great team spirit. Thanks to all parents and friends for the support.

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:: CRY Screening Programme

By P Whyte
10/02/2008

A group of parents in our area are looking at the possibility of organising acardiac screening programme for anybody aged 14-35 throught the charity CRY (Cardiac Risk in the Young). This is a very worthwhile venture and it is recommended to all people in the club who fall within this age group. The cost of the test will be approximately Ł35.00. For furter information please contact Siobhan McAdam on 07703360382

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:: ISLAND HILL CASTAWAY - RICHARD BRUCE

By Man Friday
06/02/2008

In our continuing Wednesday feature, this week's Island Hill castaway is 4th XI, but pro tem 3rd XI, defensive supremo Richard Bruce.

What 10 singles or album tracks would you like to have?

1 Long Road to Ruin - The Foo Fighters
2 Bad Day - REM
3 Driftwood - Travis
4 The End of the World - REM
5 Sympathy for the Devil - Rolling Stones
6 Stairway to Heaven - Led Zepplin
7 Fools Gold - Stone Roses
8 Crash - The Primitives
9 It's all so Quiet - Bjork
10 Loaded - Primal Scream

Which 3 DVD movies would you like with you?

1 Pulp Fiction
2 The Shawshank Redemption
3 Any of the 6 Star Wars movies!!

A favourite book to bring?

The DaVinci Code

Whose sports result would you look for in the Sunday Desert Island Times newspaper?
Manchester United's

And who would you like to be washed up beside you, other than Mrs Bruce of course?
Kylie Minogue.

Thanks Richard for your contribution. Next week's castaway will be Laura Clarke.

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:: Under 12 Girls League

By Helen McGaughey
04/02/2008

Come rain, hail and gales the games must go on! The U12 girl’s team had to endure a day reminiscent to their first tournament of the year. As the severe gales swept over the pitch and the rain pelted down their opening opponents Omagh failed to make an appearance resulting in a 3-0 victory by default. We where fortunate that are next opponents Randalstown gave as a friendly match to get us warmed-up. However when it came to the real match despite giving 100% effort and determination the girls where outclassed by a young team with ability beyond their years. The 5-0 result did not reflect the defensive efforts of the team in particular Whiteside in goals and Elliott and Gilliland in defence.
Even though the girls were cold and soaked through they went into their last match against Magherafelt as keen as ever. A much more balanced match followed with both teams having early opening chances but it was Magherafelt who took the lead early on. In attack both Jones and Rolb forced the opposition’s keeper into good saves but they just couldn’t find the breakthrough. A breakaway goal sealed Magherafelt’s win, despite the game being stopped seconds after due to the fact that they had been playing with an additional player on the field for part of the match. Overall this was a much more competitive game with the girls’ level of skills continually improving.

Special thanks to all the enthusiastic if not slightly damp supporters and Sharon McGaughey for her help in organising the girls.

Next Tournament February 24th 2008

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:: Ladies match called off

By Lyns S
02/02/2008

The Ladies 1XI match against Coleraine has been cancelled due to the frozen pitch at Comber Leisure Centre.

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:: ISLAND HILL CASTAWAY - ADRIENNE DA COSTA

By Man Friday
30/01/2008

In this week´s regular Wednesday feature, today´s castaway is ladies´1st XI goalkeeper Adrienne Da Costa.

Which 10 singles or album tracks would you like to have with you?
1 The Best of You - Foo Fighters
2 Run - Snow Patrol
3 Days Like This - Van Morrison
4 Mr Brightside - The Killers
5 At The River - Groove Armada
6 I Get Around - The Beach Boys
7 Lucky Man - The verve
8 Gold - Beverley Knight
9 Where´s your Head At - Basement Jaxx
10 Stop - Spice Girls

Which 3 DVD movies would you have?
1 Any Harry Potter
2 Blood Diamond
3 The Last King of Scotland

A favourite book to bring?
Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes

Whose sports result would you look for in the Sunday Desert Island Times newspaper.
After the Senioir1 results it would be whatever took my fancy at the time.

Who would you like to have washed up on the beach beside you?
Jeremy Clarkson!

Thanks Adrienne for taking part. Next week´s castaway will be Richard Bruce!!

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:: Ladies 2nds finally win

By Laura Clarke
28/01/2008

North Down 2nds 3-0 Portadown 2nds

North Down Ladies 2nds finally picked up their first win of the season against fellow strugglers Portadown 2nds, doubling their points tally in the process. Confidence was high before the game after strong performances in recent weeks including last weeks battling 2-1 defeat against table toppers Randalstown.
The Comber girls showed their intentions to attack early on and took the lead in the 3rd minute after a penalty corner variation between Laura Clarke, Karen Conway and Julie Fisher, the latter sending the ball across the keeper and into the back of the net. The home side continued to dominate and piled forward in numbers as Portadown struggled to cope with the movement and quick passing of the home side.
North Down looked to have doubled their lead half way through the first half when the ball was bundled into the net after a mazy run by Fisher. However much to the North Down players disbelief the visiting umpire blew his whistle and awarded a free out despite it not being his circle, claiming the ball had hit Fisher’s foot some 25 yards before. After much heated discussion the goal remained chalked off. This decision could have ruined the game but credit to both teams who kept their discipline and the rest of the game was played in good spirits.
Three minutes later North Down did double their lead this time it was Clarke who weaved past a few players in midfield before picking out Helen McGaughey on the right. McGaughey completely outpaced her player and fired in a powerful cross that was met by a diving Fisher, who at full stretch managed to divert the ball high into the net.
In the second half, as legs began to tire, North Down took their foot off the gas allowing Portadown to get back into the game and win a series of short corners. The visitors could have clawed their way back into the game only for some stout defending especially from centre back Ann McBride. However the Comber girls picked up their game again in the final ten minutes as Portadown struggled to cope with the pace of Ashleigh Carr and young Zara Millar on the wings. After a sustained period of North Down pressure Julie Fisher won another short corner which Laura Clarke slammed home to wrap up the three points. With a few similar performances in the coming weeks North Down should be able to do enough to avoid relegation to Junior 2. Thanks to Billy for umpiring.

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:: U12 Tournament at Mossley

By K Conway
27/01/2008

The U12's took part in anothert seven-a-side tournament and had a record of won two, lost three. The boys started well in their first game and two goals from Phil Hawthorne secured the points. Inthe second game they lost 1-0 to Annadale in a close match were keeper Chris McSherry made a couple of excellent saves.

The boys then lost 4-0 to a very talented Mossley side before getting back to winning ways with a 2-0 success over Inst B's. The goals were again scored by Phil Hawthorne. In the last match the boys lost 3-0 to Inst A with keeper Chris McSherry again excelling.

While all the boys showed well in this tournament special praise must go to ace goalscorer Phil Hawthorne and at the other end of the pitch Chris McSherry whos hard work at training is really paying off.

Player of the Tournament: Chris McSherry

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:: Ladies Fifths Lose Narrowly

By Lynsey Catherwood
27/01/2008

Saturday 26th January saw North Down Fifths travel to meet Lurgan IIIs as part of their minor league cup campaign.
The match started off well with North attacking the Luran circle straight away. However Lurgan soon returned the pressure but the North Down defence were able to keep them at bay with great tackling and clearing from Megan McKelvey and Natasha Black. As both teams settled the game became a very even midfield battle . North Down made some great runs breaking through at midfield with Stephanie Browne playing a great ball out wide ending with Kim Browne having a shot on target but unfortunately not making it past the Lurgan defence. Stephanie and Jo Dugan continued to keep the pressure on and at half time both teams were still to score.
The second half started with Lurgan stepping up the pace putting the visitors under immediate pressure at the back but with excellent saves from North keeper Ashleigh Gorman they could not secure a goal. The North Down girls fought back with more great breaks from Stephanie and Janet Bradley who crossed a super ball but unfortunately North Down couldn't get the touch. Jayne Alexander also had a good shot on target. Lurgan went on the attack again and a well took penalty corner resulted in sending Lurgan 1-0 up to win the match. The young North Down team shouldn't be disheartened as they played extremely well. They kept fighting and demonstrated further how they are working together as a team.
The fifiths would like to thank Sally again for offering to taxi the girls to Lurgan and for umpiring the match.
Player of the Match- Ashleigh Gorman

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:: Monkstown knock 2nds out of IJC

By HO
26/01/2008

North Down travelled to Dublin on Saturday to play a suspiciously strong Monkstown side in the Irish Junior Cup 3rd round. This was North Down's first match since the Christmas period and it was evident from the first whistle as Monkstown started the game the much better side and had all the possession with the majority of play being in the North Down half. North Down couldn't get to grips with the game and found themselves under heavy pressure from an energetic young Monkstown side that were comfortable on the ball. For all Monkstown pressure they failed to create any real clear cut chances on the North Down goal and some last ditch defending prevented any real serious threat. MacArthur in the away goal was only called into action to make a fine double save from a Monkstown short corner. Monkstown started to become more and more frustrated as their possession could not be converted into goals and this was visible in some of the challenges that were being allowed by the officials. North Down players were quickly shown green cards for protesting too much about rash challenges and persistent feet by Monkstown players. (Back to the hockey) As the half progressed North Down started to shake the cobwebs off and possess the ball much more to greater effect. North Down began to show some flashes of what they could do and finished the better side for the last ten minutes of the first period. H/T 0-0
The second half started more evenly than the first with the umpire having to show a green to a Monkstown player for a high challenge in the first minute. Monkstown had too many players all looking to get into the action and they only left one player at the back. An overconfident Monkstown sweeper tried to run out of defence past Darren Rice who robbed him and punished his mistake by slamming the ball past the Monkstown custodian. Monkstown responded with a sublime strike from Ross Watkins who hit a rasping reverse stick effort from the by-line into the roof of the North Down net. Stephen Dazell had an excellent opportunity to restore the lead for North Down when the Monkstown sweeper was caught ball watching on the half way line. With only the keeper to beat Dazell opted for a pass to Stevie Magee who failed to convert. Monkstown spurred by this scored their second through first eleven star Alec Barrett after some fine build up play. Protests by North Down that it hit a foot were waved away with Darren Rice receiving his second green card of the encounter for protesting too strongly. Monkstown now in the clear ascendancy scored another fine effort through Monkstown first eleven player Simon Groves. North Down had two good chances on the Monkstown goal; however, the usually lethal Darren Rice missed both opportunities. Monkstown had a number of further chances with Ross Watkins proving to be a real threat up front especially on his reverse. This young Monkstown side were full of running and a lack of match fitness was beginning to show from the Comber lads. Chris McLean rightly received a yellow card for a needless off the ball incident out of frustration. The match finished with North Down winning their only short corner of the encounter which in turn the Monkstown keeper easily saved. F/T 3-1.
Although this young and skilful Monkstown side dominated huge parts of this match North Down created a number of chances that all went amiss. In the scheme of things Monkstown deserved this win. Many thanks for their fine hospitality and friendship....
Monkstown will meet one of the cup favorites Cookstown 2nds in the next round.

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:: ISLAND HILL CASTAWAY - SAM PYPER

By Man Friday
23/01/2008

Continuing our regular Wednesday feature of a club member shipwrecked on a mythical desert island in Strangford lough, Island Hill, this week's castaway is ace goalscorer and 3rd XI captain - Sam Pyper. It seems that the things he just couldn't survive without are:

10 favourite singles or album tracks:

1 Break on Through - The Doors
2 Racing Rats - Editors
3 Masterplan - Oasis
4 Don't Stop me Now - Queen
5 Money - Pink Floyd
6 Apply some Pressure - Maximo Park
7 Numb - Linkin Park
8 Off the Wall - Michael Jackson
9 Woke up this Morning - Alabama 3
10 Milk - Kings of Leon

3 DVD movies to bring:

1 Star Wars
2 Matrix
3 Ace Ventura Pet Detective

A favourite book to bring:

Carol Vorderman's Sudoku Challenge

Whose sports result would you look for in the Sunday Desert Island Times newspaper:
Liverpool FC

Which person, other than your partner of course, would you like to be washed up on the beach beside you:
Martine McCutcheon

Thanks Sam for your contribution, next week's castaway will be Adrienne Da Costa!

If you have been emailed the set of questions, what's keeping you?

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:: Men's 4ths out of Minor Cup

By 4th XI reporter
21/01/2008

Defeat at home to South Antrim 4ths last Saturday at Enler Park in the Minor Cup leaves our 4th XI to concentrate on the league.

The visitors got off to the best possible start with a short corner goal in the 6th minute hammered in by the rotund South Antrim sweeper but after that most of the chances fell to North Down. When it seemed simpler to score, Darren Rodgers twice had chances to level the scores. As often happens, against the run of play, the visitors went further ahead just before half time with a shot which gave John Fisher no chance.

Prompted by Robin McMulland and Paul Johnston in midfield, North Down dominated the start of the second half and eventually pulled one back with a Justin Sloan piledriver from a short corner. However slackness in defence within a minute let South Antrim in again to restore their 2 goal advantage. The 4ths had great chances to get back into the match but the finishing was still poor. Paul Johnston drove wide when well placed and had a goal disallowed with a shot which was clearly just outside the circle. When he did score two minutes from time, it was too late to alter the outcome of the game. Final score North Down 4th XI 2 - 3 South Antrim 4th XI.
Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Justin Sloan.

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:: Men's leading goalscorers

By Jim Patterson
21/01/2008

Leading goalscorers so far this season, those who have reached double figures are:
1. Andy Forrest 17
2. Stephen Magee 15
3. Sam Pyper 14
4. Andrew Shannon 13
5.Johnny Gray 11
6. Taimur Khan 10

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:: U13 and U15 boys traning cancelled

By P Whyte
21/01/2008

Tonights training has been cancelled due to a water logged pitch you will not be shocked to hear. See you all next week.

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:: U14 Girls Golden Run Continues

By T Ritchie
20/01/2008

Last Sunday the U14 girls extended their winning streak to six games as they overcame a talented Garvey side 3-1 at Lisnagarvey.

The girls showed no signs of rustiness in their first game after christmas and dominated the first half. The Garvey keeper was in excellent form and the forwards, Jane Alexander, Jenna Hoey and Judith Orr, could fin no way past her. However the impressive Zara Millar did manage to score on the stroke of half time.

In the second half Gravey came into the game but this merely allowed North Downs high tempo breakinh hockey to come into is own as Zara Millar in particular was able to use her pace and skills to create several good chances two of which were expertly put away by Jenna Hoey. With the game effectively over North Down relaxed a little and this allowed Garvey a goal they deserved in the last minutes of the match.

This was another excellent performance from the girls with the back four of Kathryn Rodgers, Amy Benson, Rebecca Hatty and Rebecca Brown solid as ever. The midfield area was skilfully controlled by Chloe Brown who dominated the game along with Zara Millar.

The girls would like to thank Trevor Allsop for umpiring and all their supporters for attending.

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:: U13 Lose Narrowly to Armagh

By P Whyte
20/01/2008

On Sunday the U13 boys played their first game of the season and were a little unlucky to lose by two goals to one.

Armagh began the game the brighter, as North Down tried to settle, and scored in the first minute of the match following a break by their danger player. North Down began to settle bu the defence had to clear their lines on several occassions with Andrew McKibben, Daniel Lavery, Max Jonston and Cameron McBride making some impressive tackles. North Down created several half chances but Armagh again scored on the break with a very well worked goal. This seemed to be the wake up call for North Down as they began to play some very good hockey with the midfield trio of Andrew Henderson, Connor Millar and Daniel Kerr providing good balance to this area.

At 2-0 down the coaching team of Keith Conway and Ross Linter delivered a positive team talk and it seemed to do ther trick as North Down had the better of the second half. Their play was rewarded when a great move involving the skillful Philip Wilson and Connor Millar resulted in the latter finishing calmly. North Down, and Philip Wilson in particular really took the game to Armagh and create several chances that could not be taken. Armagh were stll dangerous on the break and Chris McSherry in the North Down nets made an excellent double save with his hands to keep North Down in it.

For the boys first game of the season this was an excellent performace. While there is still a lot of hard work at training ahead to iron out a few faults the effort and commitment of the boys was first class.

Player of the match: Philip Wilson

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:: U15s' Overwhelm Armagh

By P Whyte
20/01/2008

The U15's got their first win of the season with an excellent 7-0 victory over Armagh.

The U15s' started the game in superb fashion playing with great width and pace in the pass causing Armagh all sorts of problems. Despite their flowing hockey the first three goals for North Down all came from short corners. Firstly Paul Ritchie rifled a shot into the corner and this was followed up by an excellent drag flick from David Shepherd and then a flick from the same player from a broken down short. The fourth goal was the best of the half and was well deserved by Johnny Moore who had an excellent first half. Following a flowing passing move orchestratedd by Paul Ritchie, as was so much of the North Down play, the ball came to Johnny at the top of the circle and he first timed it into the rough of the net past a stunned Armagh keeper.

In the second half Armagh came back into the game and were unlucky not to score first. However North Down then won a penaly corner and David Shepherd showed again his drag flicking ability as the ball rocketed into the net to complete his hat-trick. Armagh stayed competitive and the match was very even until the last ten minutes when North Down scored two more with Stephen Campbell reverse sweeping the ball into the net and Mark Simpson finishing of a delightful move with an excellent finish. Credit must be given to the Armagh keeper who normally does not do nets and produced several excellent saves to keep the score down.

This was an excellent performance by all the North Down players and the hard work at training on movement of the forwards really paid of in this game. Coaches Bailie and Speers were delighted by the overall performance but stressed to the boys the need to maintain their level of performance for the whole match.

Player of the Match: David Shepherd

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:: Missed Chances prove Costly for North Down

By robin mitchell
19/01/2008

North Down entertained league leaders NICS at Comber on Saturday.The scoreline of 4-1 to the visitors suggests a comfortable win but this was not the case.North Down won the short corner count 8-2 and had several chances to score .NICS were more clinical in front of goal and as a result deserved their victory.
North Down opened at a fast pace and dominated play during the first 10 minutes.Firstly good play by Mark Forrest created a chance for his brother Andy .His shot went agonisingly past with Gareth McKeown just failing to get a touch at the far post.Bailie had a chance at the far post from a corner but his effort was cleared.Against the run of play after 15 minutes a North Down attack broke down and the ball was quickly played to Shields who was allowed to find a way into the circle and his reverse shot gave Coates no chance.Mark Forrest had a goal disallowed for being to high at a short corner.Then at the other end Shields had a chance to extend NICS lead but Coates made a good block and cleared his lines.
The second half continued at a fast pace with both sides playing fast flowing hockey.McKeown had a great run which ended with a corner which was easily cleared .Then Forrest found himself in space but his mishit shot was cleared .After 15 minutes Speers knocked the ball away after conceding a free and the umpire awarded a corner which was swept into the net by Anderson.Almost immediately from the hit of Forrest made a strong run into the circle and reduced the arrears with a strong flick.
The turning point in the game came after 21 minutes.Shields stumbled as he tried a reverse shot and the ball broke to Gilmore who scored while the North Down players stopped awaiting the whistle for a free in their favour.Good play by McKeown and Forrest created a chance for Mark Forrest but he was unable to get a touch at the far post.With North Down pressing forward gaps were being left at the back .A quick pass from defence found Nichol at the edge of the circle and he beat Coates with a strong shot leaving the final scoreline 4-1 in the visitors favour

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:: ISLAND HILL CASTAWAY - JO IRWIN

By Man Friday
16/01/2008

Each Wednesday a Club member will be a castaway on a remote desert island in Strangford Lough ie Island Hill. What essentials would they like to have with them?

Jo Irwin, our Ladies' Club Captain and erstwhile 2nd XI player until she got pregnant, is our first castaway.

10 favourite records:
1 I will survive - Gloria Gaynor
2 Simply the best! - Tina Turner
3 Since u been gone - Kelly Clarkson
4 The show must go on - Queen
5 Day after day - Rod Stewart
6 Patience - Take That
7 I'd do anything for love - Meatloaf
8 More like the movies - DR Hook
9 Just pass it on - Joe Cocker
10 I want to break free - Queen

3 favourite movies on DVD
1 Castaway!!!
2 Dirty Dancing
3 The Harry Potter series

1 favourite book
Bridget Jones Diary

Whose sports result would you look for in the Sunday Desert Island Times newspaper?
Liverpool FC - after North Down Ladies of course !!!

Which person, other than your partner of course, would you like to be washed up on the beach beside you?
Dr Mark Sloan (McSteamy) from Greys Anatomy

Thanks to Jo for being our first castaway.

Get your thinking cap on. Man Friday may be in touch with you soon to join Jo!!

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:: Men's 4ths beat the frost and almost Annadale

By 4th XI reporter
13/01/2008

Despite widespread frost last Friday evening, the 4th XI league fixture with 'South Belfast' side Annadale 6ths went ahead as scheduled at Jordanstown.

In a scrappy first half largely dominated by the home team North Down took advantage of their only real chance to go ahead through Sam Pyper from a short corner.

Annadale equalised in the second half with a dubiously high shot from another corner. They were lucky to stay on level terms as first of all Stephen Dalzell hit a post and then late on, a superb piece of skill at the edge of the circle by Darren Rodgers almost let in Peter Kerr for the winning goal.

As the frost closed in and even the lights were switched off at one stage both teams settled for a 1 - 1 draw.

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:: 1st xi Trounce Ballynahinch

By robin mitchell
12/01/2008

With most games cancelled due to the frost North Down took advantage of the excellent facilities and in particular the weather in Newcastle to hammer Ballynahinch 8-0 and close the gap between themselves and the top four.
It took only 7 minutes for North Down to take the lead.A well taken free by Speers was deflected into goal by Bailie.Four minutes later Speers and Forrest combined to win a corner.Speers initial effort was saved but Forrest was on hand to hammer home the rebound.North Down continued to dominate but the forwards were guilty of many missed chancesMidway through the half Coates had to be on his toes and make a couple of smart saves as Hinch threatened to claw their way back into the game.
Hinch were allowed to dominate play at the start of the second period and after 5 minutes were awarded a penalty after Coates was adjudged to play the ball with the back of the stick.He duly made amends with a spectacular save high to his right.Immediately after this Hinch won a corner and Coates again made a double save to keep his side in front.Having kept their goal intact North Down moved up a gear and tore the Hinch defence to shreads.Bailie began the rout after 12 minutes when he scored from midcircle with a reverse stick shot..Three minutes later the Forrest brothers broke quickly down the right and Andy crossed for Bailie to complete his hattrick.Almost immediately the brothers again combined for Andy to score his second.With 10 minutes remaining Ross Linter made a strong run into the circle only to see his shot saved .Andy Forrest completed his hattrick when he slammed home the rebound.McMillan with his long reach was causing problems and he saw a reverse shot fly past the post.He then combined with Forrest to win a corner,A variation was flicked high into the net to give Forrest his fourth goal. The rout was completed when brother Mark scored with a strong shot into the roof of the net from the top of the circle.
A good result but this youmg side must now prepare themselves for a stiffer test next week when they entertain table toppers NICS

World Trip

Steven McGimpsey played his last game for the club this season as he sets of next Thursday on his trip around the world.We wish him well and hope to have him back in the fold in the not too distant future

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:: U12 & U14 Girls Training Cancelled

By T Ritchie
11/01/2008

Unfortunately the pitch at Comber is frozen and there will be no training this evening. The U14 girls team are reminded that they have a match on Sunday - don't forget.

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:: North Down's desert island castaway

By Man Friday
11/01/2008

Picture the scene! Every Wednesday starting next week, a member of the Club will be washed up on a fictional desert island in the middle of Strangford Lough, probably not Island Hill.

What records and DVDs will they want to have with them during their solitary isolation? Do they have a favourite book to while away the hours or even a special someone they would like to have washed up on the beach beside them? Check it out next Wednesday when our first castaway to reveal all will be ..................... ladies' Club Captain Jo Irwin.

Will you be next ?

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:: Training 2008

By P Whyte
06/01/2008

Just a reminder to all youths that training will restart on the following dates:

Boys U12, U13 & U14 Monday 7th January 6.00pm
Girls U12 & U14 Friday 11th January 7.00pm
Minis Sunday 13th January 1.00pm

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:: U12 Girls Tournament Cancelled

By H McGaughey
06/01/2008

Unfortunately, due to the bad weather, the U12 tournament today has been cancelled. Apologies for any inconvenience.

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:: Irish Junior cup draw in full

By **
05/01/2008

Irish Junior Cup Draw
05 Jan 08
Irish Junior Cup
Ties to be played on Saturday 26th January

Banbridge ll v Campbellians

Three Rock ll v Instonians ll

Galway v Railway Union ll

Cookstown ll v Glenanne ll

Annadale ll v Clontarf ll

Monkstown ll v North Down ll

Pembroke Wanderers ll v Cork CI ll

Belfast Harlequins ll v Armagh

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:: 2nds to meet Monkstown 2nds in IJC

By KM
05/01/2008

North Down 2nds will travel to Leinster side Monkstown 2nds for the third round of the IJC on Saturday 26 Jan 2008.

For the full draw go to links and click on the Irish association website.

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:: Ladies Fifths Falls Foul of Weather

By Claire Edgar
04/01/2008

The ladies fifths game tomorrow is the first to be cancelled due to pitches being unplayable. Given the weather there is the possibility that more may be cancelled. Keep checking the website for up-to-date information.

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:: 2nds defeat Lisnagarvey 3rds.

By KM
29/12/2007

North Down seconds travelled to meet Lisnagarvey thirds on Saturday in Junior league one with a number of Comber players missing through illness and work commitments. Youngster Andrew Caldwell made his first appearance of the season in goals having been called up at the eleventh hour due to a last minute reshuffling of goal keepers in the club. North Down were to face a very different ‘Garvey side to that which they faced a few weeks previous and won 8-2. The away side got off to a good start and had a couple of decent half chances on the 'Garvey goal but to no avail. North Down with Whitten, Rice and Moreland playing in midfield started to dominate their opposite numbers with Whitten in particular having a fine game against the evergreen Bruce Agnew. The deadlock was broken on the sixteenth minute mark when Paul Beaney (yes Paul Beaney!!) made a good run with the ball unchecked into the 'Garvey danger area and passed to Scott Moore who slotted the ball home. Instead of this being the catalyst that may have sparked the game to life the half actually became a dull and dogged affair with little by way of constructive hockey being played. 'Garvey in the first period had two chances on the North Down goal and these were both easily dealt with. H/T 0-1
North Down determined to increase their advantage introduced Peter Shields at centre forward alongside Stevie Magee and Stephen Dalzell. Numerous chances on the 'Garvey goal went amiss as a result of poor shots and good saves by the 'Garvey custodian. 'Garvey under pressure to secure points pushed hard and started to threaten the North Down goal. Caldwell seen his first action of the match and made a good save from a well hit short corner. The away defence marshalled by Marty Moreland as stand in sweeper held firm as the threat intensified. Caldwell was to make another excellent save from a point blank effort which he managed to palm over the crossbar. North Down in response started to dominate again and however, continued to see chance after chances go amiss on the ‘Garvey goal. In the last few minutes 'Garvey had a succession of free hits around the North Down circle to make it a tense last few minutes. The North Down rearguard held firm and secured the two points. F/T 0-1
Man of the Match - Colin Morrison

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:: North down lose out to Antrim

By robin mitchell
29/12/2007

North Down entertained Antrim on Saturday without three regulars who were unavailable through illness and holidays.Also Ally McArthur was unable to get released from work meaning a late call for Mark Parsons in goal.However they were able to call on the services of Keith and McKeown who were home on holiday from University
Antrim started at a fast pace and were awarded a short corner after 3 minutes.Creighton duly dispatched the ball into the net.Before North Down had time to recover Antrim were awarded another corner which was switched to McIlroy who scored from close range.
North Down slowly clawed their way back into the game and Forrest was unlucky not to reduce the arrears before half time when he hit the post after weaving his way along the by line.
The game came to life in the second period .North Down were first out of the blocks and McKeown rounded the keeper only for his effort to be cleared at the expense of a corner .After 4 minutes skipper Willis won a short corner and Speers scored..Seven minutes later North Down were level when Forrest scored a fine individual goal.North Down were now in total control and only the Antrim keeper kept his side in the game with a string of fine saves from corners ann open play.With injuries to Wright and McGimpsey and noone else on the bench the north down players visibly tired in the last 10 minutes aloowing Antrim back into the game.With 8 minutes remaining Brownlees found himself with space in the circle and his reverse shot found the net.With minutes ticking awayParsons made a fine save and then Forrest had an effort saved at the other end.A good performance by North Down but a disappointing result

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:: Ladies 1XI secure all 3 points

By Lyns S
18/12/2007

North Down travelled to Civil Service on Saturday hoping to get back to a winning streak. It didn’t get off to a great start when just 2 minutes before the match North where down to just 11 players due to injuries and illnesses. With the team rearranged and players playing in unfamiliar positions, it took the team a while to settle. The away team then slowly got into their passing game and great work down the left from Fiona Ellis and Hilary West began to open up Services’ defence. One such attack saw Lyne greenwood win a penalty corner that Lynsey Stevenson duly converted to put the visitors one up. Service came back well, but great goal keeping from Adrienne Da Costa kept the Comber girls in front. Just before the half time whistle, Service won a string of penalty corners, but superb defending from Lindsay Murray and Lesley Scates meant that North maintained their one goal advantage.

The second half started more open with chances for both teams, but once again North’s defence was up to the challenge and kept the Service strikers at bay. North began to play talented free flowing hockey and had many attacks of their own. It was from one of these moves that centre forward Lyne Greenwood pounced on a loose ball in the circle to put the visitors 2-0 up. North made it three shortly after, when a pinpoint pass from West found Claire Coey at the edge of the circle who calmly shot passed the advancing Service keeper.

North fought hard to the end and found it tough with only 11 players, but yet again great team spirit and determination proved the key to their success. North Down hopes to gain a further 3 points before Christmas when they host Ballyclare on Saturday at Comber Leisure Centre.

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:: LATE LATE SHOW FROM MEN'S 4TH XI

By 4th XI reporter
17/12/2007

The 4th XI completed a league double over PSNI 3rds at Ards Leisure Centre last Saturday with a comprehensive 3 - 1 victory having earlier won 1 - 0 in the away fixture in October.

The PSNI side started well and took advantage of a mix-up in the home defence to go into an early lead after 11 minutes with Mark Parsons being given no chance with a short range shot from Johnston. The 4ths quickly settled and the central defensive duo of Justin Sloan and Richard Bruce were rock solid at the back and never looked troubled thereafter.

As the first half progressed, North Down spent long periods in the opposition half but their inability this season to get the ball early into the danger area continued and at half time PSNI 3rds were still in the driving seat at 1 - 0.

In the second period the half time talking to soon paid results when Richard Topping fired home an unstoppable shot from the right to level the score. The PSNI midfield had no answer to the skills of Ben Willis who was given a free range role in the middle of the park and with the pace of Topping on the wing. Both combined well several times but still the score remained at 1 - 1 despite the 4ths territorial advantage. The home team's short corner count reached double figures without a serious shot on goal and the deadlock was finally only broken 7 minutes from time by a fine reverse shot from Topping. Two minutes later he completed his hat-trick, his first for the Club, with another fine volley to give Colin McMullan's team a late but deserved win.

Farmview Dairies Man of the Match: Richard Topping

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:: U14's Continue Winning Streak

By T Ritchie
17/12/2007

Last Sunday the girls maintained their 100% league record against close challengers, Saintfield, at Hillsborough running out seven one winners.

North Down dominated the game from start to finish and have adapted well to the water based pitch at Hillsborough. This type of pitch suits their high tempo passing game and the proved too strong for a spirited Saintfield side.

Early goals from Zara Millar and Jane Alexander settled North Down and they scored one more goal, through Chloe Brown, before the break. In the second half further goals were scored by Zara, Chloe, Jane and Jenna Hoey with Saintfield getting a consolation goal in the dying minutes of the match.

This was North Down best performance of the season. At sweeper Amy Benson was excellent ably supported in defence by Rebecca Brown and Rebecca Hatty who also got forward at any oppurtunity to support Chloe Brown in midfield and the forwards, Jenna Hoey, Jane Alexander and Zara Millar. Zaras pace was a feature of the game and she created countless scoring chances. Rebecca Walker and Hannah McAdam also gained valuable pitchtime and playing experience.

Thanks to all parents and supporters for their encouragement.

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:: Christmas Break

By P Whyte
17/12/2007

Youth hockey has now stopped for a well earned break and will recommence on the following dates:

Minis: 13/1/08
Girls: 11/1/08
Boys: 7/1/08

Thanks to all boys, girls and parents for their help so far this year.

Have a merry Christmas and happy New Year.

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:: 2nds progress at expense of Kilkeel in cup

By KM
15/12/2007

The seconds faced their old ‘foe’ Kilkeel old boys in the second round of the Irish Junior Cup on Saturday at Comber Leisure Centre. Kilkeel with already a win under their belt this season in Junior league One against the Comber lads were confident that they could do it again. The match started brightly with North Down dominating most of the play and the away keeper having to make some excellent saves from Moore and Dalzell. Kilkeel, however, were to prove sharp in attack and with their first attack of the game they opened their account with a good goal. North Down continued to dominate against a Kilkeel side that played eleven men behind the ball and were soon to open their own goal account to bring the scores level through Stevie Magee. Kilkeel choosing to adopt a counter attacking game grabbed their second after some poor marking by North Down. Kilkeel did a carbon copy job on the North Down rearguard minutes later and took their goal tally to three. Kilkeel appearing to be of the belief that the job was concluded took a defensive approach for the remainder of the half. North Down simply could not find a way past some solid Kilkeel defending. H/T 1-3
Kilkeel squander a glorious opportunity within the first two minutes of the restart despite the side experiencing a blistering half time team talk. North Down resumed where they had left off and started to dominate the match with Stevie Magee and Darren Rice causing all sorts of problems for the Kilkeel defence. North Down had several short corners well saved and Kilkeel veteran Marty Rogers took two excellent efforts of the Kilkeel goal line to keep his side in front. Magee cut the Kilkeel lead with an excellent effort after rounding defender Rogers and the advancing away goal keeper. North Down now in the ascendancy grabbed the equaliser through Paul Johnston. Kilkeel now forced to come out of their half in search for a goal allowed the North Down side in for goal number four through Magee. Colin Mockford intercepted a poor Kilkeel hit out minutes later and from the resulting free hit Paul Johnston running in at the back post took the North Down score line to five. North Down had several more chances on goal but some super defending and goal keeping kept the score line at 5-3. F/T 5-3.
Man of the match - Stevie Magee.

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:: North Down share eight goal thriller

By robin mitchell
15/12/2007

On a bumpy pitch at the Dub North Down and Queens shared eight goals.The water system failed before the game and the bumpy pitch made it difficult for defenders.
North Down got the perfect start .After 7 minutes Linter found himself in space at the top of the circle and Bailie deflected his shot into goal.Minutes later Andy Forrest received the ball on the 25 and rounded the last defender before unleashing an unstoppable shot past the keeper.After 25 minutes North Down failed to clear a bouncing ball and Watt slammed first time past a helpless Coates.Straight from the restart Queens won a corner and Coates was called on to make a great double save before the ball was cleared.On 28 minutes the North Down defence was again caught and Watt repeated the medicine with another slick finish.Queens almost snatched the lead when they won a corner but Coates made a magnificent stick save to deny Watt..Three minutes before half time North Down restored their lead when Bailie got the vital touch to a Linter pass.
The second half was only 2 minutes old when Watt was allowed to work the ball onto his reverse and hit past the unsighted Coates.North Down again took the lead .Forrest made a good run along the byline and passed to McMillan who scored from close in..Play swung from end to end without either side threatening goal.Coates had to be on his toes to deflect a cross away from an incoming forward..With 10 minutes remaining Queens won a cornerand O Flaherty scored with a drag flick..Both sides went all out for the winner.Coates again having to save from a corner but the best chance fell to North Down with 2 minutes remaining.Forrest got the ball in the circle ,rounded the keeperonly to see his reverse shot cleared of athe line by a defender who did well to get back to cover.The final whistle went with both camps happy to settle for a draw

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:: 2nds postponed against Raphoe 2nds.

By KM
08/12/2007

The 2nds match away to Raphoe 2nds has been postponed due to a water logged pitch. (0940am)

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:: firsts hit Down for eight

By robin mitchell
08/12/2007

Weather Hits Hockey Programme

Only North Down 1st xi fulfilled their league fixture on Saturday due to the inclement weather.The pitch at Comber was flodded and the game was switched to Ards.In atrocious overhead conditions North Down overran Down by 8-1.But to be fair to Down they did not want to play the game as they had a Linden Cup semi Final on Sunday and some of their players were rested.
The goal rout started after 10 minutes when Bailie won a short corner and Speers slotted home.North Down continued to pressurise the Down circle but their efforts were wide of target.
In 28 minutes Speers had a shot saved from a short corner and McMillan was following up to slam home.Four minutes later Bailie made a good run and found Mark Forrest who slammed home.
Andy Forrest increased the lead when he scored following a free in just four minutes into the second period..The Forrest brothers combined after 16 minutes with Mark getting the final touch..A good run by Andy Forrest created the chance for McMillan to get his second. 4 minutes later..Barr was penalised for an infringement and Coates had to be at his brilliant best to deny White from the resultant corner.From the ensuing long corner White deflected the ball into the net.Speers who was having a good game in midfield found Willis high in the circle and he set up Andy Forrest for number seven..Coates was again called into action to save from White.Excellent running from Linter and good vision from Speers set Forrest up but the keeper blocked his efforts.On the stroke of full time Bailie won another short corner which was clinically dispatched into the net by Speers.

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:: Luck runs out for North Down

By Robin Mitchell
01/12/2007

North Down travelled to Harlequins on Saturday knowing that a good performance was required in order to keep their promotion hopes alive.
Coaches Johnston and Davis were not to be disappointed as North Down gave their best performance of the year only to see Harlequins snatch a dramatic draw with the last hit of the game.
In the first period both teams were cancelling each other out and their was very little goal mouth action.Harlequins best efforts came from 2 crosses which eluded everyone while Forrest saw a reverse effort go wide.The game sparked into life in injury time at the end of the first half.Good play down the right by Baird and Bailie led to Forrest winning a penalty flick.Kelly made an excellent save from Speers effort.While North Down were licking their wounds Harlequins raced to the other end where Neill found himself unmarked and slotted home.
With the last hit of the half.
The second half was following a similar pattern until Neill was yellow carded for an infringement.North Down upped the pace making use of the extra man.Forrest equalised after 52 minutes after Bailies initial shot was saved.North Down were playing fast flowing hockey and it was no surprise when Forrest put them ahead after being put through by Speers. In the 55 minute..North Down were controlling the game but Stevenson always looked dangerous for the home side on the break.With minutes ticking away Harlequins were awarded a corner for feet and Anderson with the last hit of the game scored with a strong flick giving Harlequins a share of the spoils which their second half performance did not deserve.

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:: Disappointment for Coaches

By Robin Mitchell
01/12/2007

Coaches Paul Johnston and Brian Davis were distraught on Saturday when they heard the news that Andy McGimpsey (Gippy) was leaving to join Annadale.Having made the decision to develop a young side for the future Gippy was very much a part of that plan and his departure will leave a huge gap.
Gippy was also our WebMaster and our new site which looks excellent was down to his hard work.I
Gippy thanks and good luck.Keep in touch

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:: All square in Londonderry for Ladies 1sts

By H. West
01/12/2007

North Down started the game positively with some good movement by the front six. Good work by Karen Conway at right back released Lynsey Stevenson who delivered a blistering cross in to the circle which was narrowly missed by the awaiting forward combination of Greenwood and Coey. The visiting team continued to press well and Priorians struggled to break through the North Down defence. Confident work by Lesley Scates, Lindsay Murray and Fiona Ellis meant little progress could be made by Priorians right side. Ellis and West linked up well and West's aerial attempts proved very useful for North Downs forwards finding Greenwood and Coey on several occasions. The first goal came from a quickly taken free by West on the 25 yard line picked up by Stevenson and expertly laid off to an expectant Coey who finished beautifully. Andrea Mockford worked tirelessly in centre midfield spreading the ball well to Conway and Bill leading to some great penetrating runs down the right side of the pitch. The second half saw North Down continue to pile on the pressure but a break from Priorians saw them awarded a long corner. A dubiously high ball found a loose forward who made no mistake in equalising. North Down dug deep and had plenty of chances to take the lead once more, including several corners and some well worked attacking play. The Co.Down girls eventually thought that their hard work had paid off when th ey were awarded a stroke but failed to capitalise when Coey forced a save from the on-form Londonderry keeper. North Down failed to take their chances and should take little pleasure from the final result. Player of the match - Lynsey Stevenson

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:: 2nds lose in Tyrone to champions

By KM
01/12/2007

The seconds travelled to Cookstown on Saturday to play junior one league Champions Cookstown seconds at 4pm. The game was played in terrible conditions with driving wind and rain but the hockey played by both sides was not affected by the weather. Cookstown with a talented side started the brighter and applied pressure on the North Down defence from the start with some fine hockey. The North Down rear guard marshalled by Colin Mockford was doing an excellent job albeit Ali MacArthur in the away goal pulled off some excellent saves. North Down had their own chances with good counter attacking hockey and on occasions found the Cookstown defence at times fragile. Scotty Moore on one occasion lost his marker and had a good shot well saved by the home keeper. Cookstown, however, needed to get points in the bag to stay in the hunt to retain their league title and they opened their account with a good effort leaving MacArthur with no chance. North Down had several shouts for short corners turned down by an umpire who unfortunately spent the match conversing with the side line. Cookstown playing good hockey increased their lead with another well taken effort. North Down were soon back in the hunt when Stevie Magee converted a short corner to take the sides into the break at 2-1.
The second half started with Cookstown making a number of changes including playmaker Costello leaving the pitch. North Down buoyed by their goal started to insert some pressure on the Cookstown defence and seen several efforts saved. Cookstown lethal on the break seen a perfectly good goal disallowed by the umpire who missed play whilst talking. Cookstown not to be outdone soon got their goal via a penalty stroke after a rash challenge and it was well converted. North Down rallied and Darren Rice hammered home from a short corner routine to make the score line 3-2. The match was being played at a frantic pace and swinging from end to end with both teams having chances on goal. Cookstown found themselves being awarded a disputed goal when a player ‘chested’ the ball over the North Down goal line to increase the score line to 4-2. North Down at the other end had a penalty stroke claim turned down when a Cookstown defender stopped the ball which was goal bound with what appeared to be a deliberate foot, however, it wasn't to be. North Down pressed in the last ten minutes but a resolute Cookstown held firm to take the points to keep them in the top three of the league. This Cookstown side allowed for hockey to be played and the youngsters in the North Down side playing at this level for the first time learned a lot from their peers and hopefully will have many more matches against them in the future. F/T 4-2
This was an excellent performance by the Comber lads and if this effort can be carried into future games then the points will come.
Man of the match - Colin Morrison/Colin Mockford

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:: North Down bounce back...

By Robin Mitchell
13/11/2007

After a disappointing exit from the Irish Cup last week, North Down got their league campaign back on track with a hard fought victory over Newry at Comber.

North Down had an early chance but Forrest shot wide. After 5 minutes North Down conceded possession in midfield and the ball was quickly transferred to Numy who scored at the second attempt. North Down began to take control and their keeper had to be on his toes to keep out efforts from McGimpsey and Forrest. After 27 minutes North Down were back on level terms when Forrest weaved his way through and slotted the ball home.

The second half was only minutes old when North Down went into the lead. McGimpsey threaded a super ball through to Forrest and he made no mistake with the keeper out of position. It now looked as if North Down would cruise to an easy victory but the reverse happened. Newry got stronger and with the help of some strange umpiring decisions were awarded a series of short corners which the North Down defence and Coates in particular did well to keep out. Against a better routine they may not have been so lucky. In between times Conway saw his effort saved and Forrest continued to cause problems with his good close control. It was Forrest who made the points safe when he completed his hat-trick with 4 minutes remaining.

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:: Ladies Fifths Win First Game of Season

By C Edgar
03/11/2007

Saturday saw the fifths play their first home game of the season and they did not disappoint their supporters with their first win of the season.

North Down opened the score line within the first five minutes when a well worked move culminated in Jane Alexander picking out Aimee Orr at the far post for a well taken goal. In a performance which showed all the signs of a team beginning to gel the girls worked tirelessly with Vicky Stead pulling the strings in midfield developing quality ball to the dangerous North Down wingers time after time. Priorians however were not to be taken for granted and brought the score line level just before the half time whistle.

North Down continued to play attractive hockey in the second half with debutants Claire Henderson, Natasha Black and Rebecca Brown fitting in well to the North Down style of play. It was Rebecca who scored North Downs second, and winning, goal with a tremendous strike from the top of the circle - a goal her performance deserved. North Down held out to the final whistle with no real scares thanks to a good work ethic from all the players.

Player of the match - Vicky Stead.

Thanks to Sally Rodgers and Jo Irwin for umpiring

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:: Squandered Chances prove costly for North Down

By R Mitchell
03/11/2007

North Down made their exit from the Irish Cup on Saturday when they were defeated 2-1 by Dublin side Railway Union.

This was a game the locals should have won but they paid the price for some poor finishing.

North Down opened the stronger and had a number of attacks on the visitors circle but the final pass was poor and the chances were lost. At the other end Coates made a fine save from a short corner. North Down took the lead after 20 minutes .A quick break out of defence saw Forrest outpace the visitors defence and his accurate cross was hammered home by brother Andy. Railway came more into the game and Coates was called on to make some fine saves. McKibbin in the visitor’s goal made an excellent save from Forrest to prevent his side from going further behind.

North Down dominated for long periods in the second half but poor final passes resulted in the keeper having little to do. Coates made an excellent save from a corner and was unlucky to be penalised. From the resultant corner O Brian equalised with 15 minutes remaining. Linter had a shot well saved and then Forrest shot wide. With about three minutes remaining Paul O Brian scored the all important winner. A harmless looking move developed on the right side and when the cross was hammered in O Brian got a stick to it deflecting the ball past a helpless Coates. This stunned North Down and Forrest had a great chance to take the game into extra time but he fired over.

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:: Ladies unlucky in cup

By Lyns
03/11/2007

North Down Ladies played Leinster table toppers Railway Union in the second round of the Irish Cup on Saturday. North were the underdogs, but started the match fearless of their opponents. Right from the outset, North’s midfield took the game to Railway and were dominant in every tackle. North began to play some good attacking hockey and earned numerous short corners but as was in previous weeks failed to convert. As Railway stepped up their game, they began to attack more playing quick free passing hockey, although they lacked in the final third mainly due to the solid back line of Fiona Ellis, Lindsay Murray, Kathy Taylor and Lesley Scates.

As the home side began to build on the pressure, Lynsey Stevenson intercepted a loose pass from Railway and ran goal bound, slotting the ball past the advancing keeper to make the score 1-0. Railway responded well and within 10 minutes had equalised through a penalty stroke. Just before the break, North earned themselves a penalty corner. Andrea Mockford’s shot found Rebecca Bill who deflected the ball past the keeper. The first half finished 2-1.

Railway started the second half brighter, putting North under pressure. Great goal keeping from Adrienne Da Costa kept North in the lead. However as the pressure mounted a free player on the edge of the circle equalised for the visitors. North Down kept fighting and the whole team put in a superb effort in the hope of creating a cup upset. Lyne Greenwood in her new role up front held the ball up laying of balls to both wingers and midfield players, creating countless attacks. Rebecca Bill and Kathy Taylor linked up well down the right hand side, causing Railway all sorts of problems while Andrea Long and Fiona Ellis halted any attacks from the left.

The game was evenly matched with both sides going for the win. With time running out, Railway Union were awarded yet another dubious penalty stroke, which Da costa was unlucky not to stop. North Down had given their all and as the match went on Railway Union slotted home a forth goal, leaving the final score 4-2. North can take a lot of positives from this match and if they can carry this performance into the league then they should be pushing towards the top. It was a brave, hard-fought and team performance from the Comber girls with the player of the match being split between a trio of Fiona Ellis, Lynsey Stevenson and Lesley Scates.

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:: Draw for men 2nds in local derby (3-3)

By Dee
03/11/2007

North Down on the back a fine performance against Annadale seconds the previous week were determined to take their good form into this Junior league one derby match with Bangor seconds. North Down had two cry offs prior to the match starting in the form of Peter Shields and captain Alan McMaster and this left the team with only eleven players. (Thanks to Marty Moreland who answered a last minute phone call and arrived at half time). The game started at a hectic pace and North Down where unfortunate not to have been awarded two short corners in the opening minutes. On the other hand Bangor as the game progressed started to stamp their authority on play and attempted to dominate the game. Bangor for all their possession, however, struggled to make any impact on the North Down goal until a lifted ball into the away circle hit a player on the leg and a hotly disputed short corner was awarded to much surprise. Bangor didn’t need a second invitation and duly slammed the ball home and opened their account. Bangor buoyed by this became more and more dangerous and through fine play scored a further short corner with a neat routine. This proved to be the catalyst that the Comber lads required and they began to impose themselves on the game. Youngster Scotty Moore was having a fine match at left wing with a right back who clearly couldn't match him for pace. One such run seen Moore run free and neatly tuck a deflection past Thompson who was wrong footed in the home goal. A lone Bangor player claimed it came off Moore's foot and this proved to be the demise of Bangor's discipline. Moore again causing problems for the Bangor defence found himself free again and turned another deflection into the home net albeit there was some strong suspicions that the goal was possibly from outside the circle. The goal was given and Bangor lost all self control. In what was reminiscent of a football match players surrounded the umpire in what could only have been described as an aggressive manner. This resulted in a yellow card for one overly strong protest and in true schoolboy fashion the offending player thought it a fine example to youngsters on both sides learning their trade to throw his hockey stick over the fence and thirty metres away onto a nearby running track. Bangor now clearly fired up proved more dangerous than ever and the talented McIlhagga started to cause all sorts of problems for the away defence with his skilful runs. H/T 2-2.
The second half seen a talented Bangor side start with a lack of discipline and they lost their focus some what and if both umpires had not acknowledged this as a derby match could have seen fit to enforce the rules of the game strictly and anything up to two or three players from both sides could have received their marching orders for poor and rash tackles. As the second half progressed Bangor settled and in turn started to put the North Down defence under severe pressure with dangerous and probing runs which resulted in some last ditch tackles. Bangor now in the dominance pressed forward but North Down were always going to be dangerous on the break. The umpires having signalled two minutes to go corresponded with Bangor scoring their third goal and taking the lead which was marked with celebrations to match. However, North Down were always dangerous on the break and some Bangor defenders thinking the game was over gave away a short corner. Stephen Magee made no mistake and slammed home the equaliser as the final whistle blew. F/T 3-3.
This was a frantic and passionate derby match which seen little by way of memorable hockey. The match ended on a sour note when the Bangor keeper thought it necessary to make his way to the half way line and vent his thoughts to one umpire which resulted in a red card. Thank you to both umpires for volunteering to take the whistle in this fiery encounter. It was never an easy match to 'blow' with so many 'commentators' playing for either side

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:: U12 Girls First Tournament

By H McGaughey
02/11/2007

U12 Girls opening tournament 28/10/07

Sunday saw an enthusiastic group of U12 girls play their first seven-a-side tournament of the year at Lisnagarvey. The girls had to endure warming up in the rain only for their opening opponents Dromore to fail to show. After drying out the girls played an exciting game against Grosvenor but despite scoring with the last touch of the ball were beaten 2-1 by a very talented side. They then went on play Larne who despite winning 2-0 could have had a lot more if it wasn’t for the defensive efforts of Sheona Whiteside in goals, Kirsty Graham and anna Rogers. The girls played throughout with great determination and effort producing some good passing hockey. Despite playing against players more experienced and bigger than them Sarah Elliott and Amy Jones in particular showed good skill both in attack and defence. Thanks to all the parents and friends for their support and to Sharon McGaughey for helping to organize the girls. Next tournament 18/11/07

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:: Training Still On

By C Edgar
31/10/2007

Despite the ghosts and ghouls all coming out to play tonight training will still be on at the normal times.

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:: U12 Boys First Tournament

By P Whyte
28/10/2007

On Sunday the U12 boys played their first seven-a-side tournament of the year at Lisnagarvey against Banbridge and Lisnagarvey. The boys opened up with a game against Garvey A's and were beaten 2-1 in an exciting game in which the North Down goal was the highlight of the match as it featured four players in a great passing move. In their second game they played Banbridge A's who were an excellent side and were beat 4-0. The boys were holding their own in their third game against Banbridge B when the weather became too severe to carry on. Throughout the games the effort of the boys was great as they played against players who were older and stronger but they more than held their own. Their tackling in particular was impressive. Special mentions to Chris McSherry in goals and Cameron McBride in defence who were outstanding and Jonny Linter who made his debut at this level and showed a high level of skill. Thanks to all the parents and friends for the support and to Claire Edgar and Timmy Linter for helping to organise the boys

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:: Irish Universities Success

By P Whyte
28/10/2007

Congratulations to Chris Speers who was part of the UUJ team who won the Irish Intervarsities at the weekend. Well done from all at North Down.

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:: Ladies 3rds beat Civil Service

By Gillian Neill
27/10/2007

North Down Ladies 3rds made the short trip to Stormont on Friday night to play Civil Service. Having drawn all but one of their previous matches so far the 3rds were keen to get a win under their belts and a valuable 3 points. The match started off at a quick pace with North Down scoring the opening goal within the first five minutes of the game. The goal came from Janice Scott whose unstoppable shot from the top of the circle was simply too powerful to give the home keeper any chance. The rest of the half saw some good hockey from both sides particulary North Down centre link Chelsey Surgenor who dictated the pace of the game. At half time the score remained at 1-0 to North Down.
As the fog began to descend on to the pitch as the second half commenced, North Down were keen to increase their one goal lead before playing conditions became even more difficult. This was quickly realized after great pressure from the forwards especially North Downs very own little terrier Chloe Brown who was causing plenty of problems and was a constant thorn in the side of the Civil Service defence. It was a ball out to the left flank from youngster Brown that was well picked up by Gillian Neill who slipped it into the circle where Nicky Reid was eagerly waiting to calmly slot the ball past the keeper bring the score to 2-0 for North Down. Civil Service however kept up the pressure for the remainder of the game and after numerous penalty corners pulled a goal back much to the disappointment of North Downs keeper Linda Marshall. This was a well-deserved win for the 3rds and a welcome 3 points. Player of the Match was Chelsey Surgenor.

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:: Youth Section Halloween Disco

By P Whyte
27/10/2007

Just a note to confirm that the youth disco on Saturday will run from seven till nine and not as advertised. I hope you will all make an effort to attend as a good time is guaranteed with some games to get things going and then some music to see if we have any natural movers. For those who dont know the cricket club is on the right hand side of Castle Lane just past the entrance to Albion Court.

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:: NICS too strong for North Down

By Robin Mitchell
27/10/2007

North Down tavelled to Stormont on Saturday hoping to get their league campaign back on track but a poor display leaves the locals with a lot to do if they are going to have a say in the promotion stakes.

Service started at a fast pace and had North Down pinned in their own half for the first 20 minutes of the gameOnly poor finishing and good goalkeeping by Coates kept the scoreline blank.With about 15 minutes of the half remaining the game burst into life.Mark Forrest found brother Andy with an accurate pass.He rounded the keeper and somehow a defender got back and deflected his goalbound effort over the bar.Shortly after a cross was cleared into the path of McGimpsey but his snap shot went wide.As often happens the team who misses chances gets punished and that is exactly what happened.With about 8 minutes of the half remaining Service were awarded a corner and a switch saw the ball enter the net.The North Down players claimed that the shot,the first on target ,was high and should be disallowed but umpire Ewart awarded the goal.

The second half was only 4 minutes old when Service increased their lead.A harmless looking cross was not dealt with by the visitors defence and Service nipped in to score.Play swung from end to end but their was more cohesion to Service play and they posed the greater threat.However North Down won a series but a poor routine failed to threaten the Service goal.With minutes remaining Conway was outpaced and Service got their third to give the scoreline a slightly flattering look.

North Down will have to up their game if they are to progress in the Irish Cup next week when they entertain Railway Union from Dublin

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:: Ladies lose at Garvey

By Lyns S
27/10/2007

North Down suffered their first league defeat of the season against Lisnagarvey. In a good game of hockey, Garvey started the brighter as North tried to adjust to the water based pitch. Garvey put the visitor’s defence under constant pressure in the first quarter of the match, but could not find a way past Lesley Scates and Lyne Greenwood who were again superb in the heart of defence.

North began to find their rhythm and through Kathy Taylor and Fiona Ellis began to work the ball out of defence. North put the home side under pressure and won a few short corners. It was from one such corner that Claire Coey was unlucky to see her shot go narrowly wide. The game began to open up and end-to-end hockey was enjoyed by all. Garvey then broke on the counter attack and won a short corner which they duly converted into the bottom corner.

The fighting spirit of North Down showed again and they began to play attractive hockey. Good work in the Midfield from Andrea Mockford, Rebecca Bill and Hilary West released the forwards who had too much pace for the Garvey defence. From a Free outside the Garvey circle, West’s pinpoint pass found Lynsey Stevenson who deflected her shot goal bound to level the scores.

Garvey started the second half the better but could not find a way passed the impressive Adrienne Da Costa in goal. North’s defence were well organised and the home team were becoming frustrated as they failed to convert after all their possession. North had few chances in the second half, but good work from Zara Millar and Ashley Carr helped relieve the visitor’s pressure.

Garvey had plenty of corners, but again great goal keeping from Da Costa kept North in the match. With about ten minutes to go Garvey’s pressure paid off and they took the lead. North had one last attack and from a penalty corner West had more time than she thought and put her shot just wide. North can take plenty of positives from this match as they entertain Railway Union on Saturday at Comber Leisure Centre at 2.30pm in the 2nd round of the Irish cup. All support welcome.

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:: U15 v Banbridge

By P Whyte
25/10/2007

Despite my best efforts i have been unable to contact anybody from Banbridge regarding the friendly on Sunday. Given this unfortunately the match will have to be called off. My apologies for any inconvenience. I will try and get the match re-arranged for later in the year. In the meantime i will try and organise a friendly for next week.

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:: Christians In Sport Service

By Lesley Scates
25/10/2007

2nd Comber Presbyterian is hosting a "Christians in Sport" service on Sunday 25th November at 6.30 pm to unite all sporting bodies in the town.
Our guest speaker will be the current United Kingdom's Strongest Man.
We invite you and all your members to join with us in the celebration and we encourage each individual group to wear the attire of their club.
A light supper will be served after the service to give everyone the opportunity to mingle with all the different sporting bodies present.
Please feel free to bring along anyone outside of the town who might be interested.
We encourage you to come along and assure you of a warm welcome.

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:: North Down II 4 - Annadale II 4 (Junior 1)

By KM
23/10/2007

The 2nds hosted Junior One high flyers Annadale 2nds on Saturday at Comber Leisure Centre. The Comber lads with a couple of players missing where determined to get back to winning ways having suffered defeat the week previous to Kilkeel. A disciplined and focused work ethic was required from Coach Murray from the outset. North Down started well and within the first minute the Annadale goal keeper was required to pull of two good saves. Annadale initially slow to begin started to get to grips with the game and caused the home defence some problems with some good hockey. Annadale took a surprise lead when a cross from outside the circle was lifted high into the chest of youngster Colin Morrison. The home defence hesitated awaiting the umpire's whistle for the infringement but it never came and Annadale slammed home to open the scoring. North Down drew level within five minutes from a fine short corner routine with Stevie Magee scoring a rebound. Annadale increased their lead after a deft touch from Annadale striker Peter Bland that squeezed past keeper Parsons in the home goal. North Down started to dominate periods of the game and youngster Colin Morrison who continues to improve in his first season for the seconds turned in an excellent performance against Connor Allison. The home side where soon on level terms after Stevie Magee grabbed his second to bring the game level. Just prior to half time the most controversial moment of the game came when Peter Shields rounded the Annadale keeper and when about to slot home was fouled from behind by the custodian and the open net denied. In what appeared to be a clear penalty stroke the umpire awarded a short corner which came to nothing. H/T 2-2
Both teams came out in the second period determined to improve on their first half display. Darren Rice had the greater fitness over Peter Bland and the veteran Annadale star reverted from midfield to centre forward and a good hockey battle ensued between Rice and Stevie Wilson in the heart of midfield. North Down took the lead when ex Annadale player Stevie Magee hammered home his hat trick to make the score line 3-2. North Down created numerous chances on the Annadale goal but like on so many occasions this season the Comber lads failed to convert until Chris Mclean scored North Down's fourth with nine minutes remaining. Annadale with all their experience increased their game tempo and put the home side under intense pressure with some excellent hockey. 'Dale were soon rewarded for their efforts after some good work along the by-line which resulted in a neat Annadale goal. With four minutes remaining a hotly disputed short corner was awarded to Annadale which Peter Bland converted to level the scores in this fine game of hockey. F/T 4-4.

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:: Boys U13 Match Cancelled

By P Whyte
20/10/2007

Unfortunately the boys U13 match against Bangor has had to be called off as Bangor are unable to field a team. My apologies for any inconvenience.

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:: Ladies into 2nd round of Irish Cup

By Lyns S
20/10/2007

North Down played hosts to Dublin side Corinthians in the first round of the Irish Cup on Saturday. North started the stronger team and right from the whistle were up for the fight determined to make the next round. The midfield trio of Hilary West, Andrea Mockford and Rebecca Bill were dominating throughout the match. They worked tirelessly and provided some excellent interplay with the forwards. North’s forward line of Claire Coey, Lynsey Stevenson and youngster Zara Millar had too much pace for the visitors defence, and began to create chance after chance. North had a string of penalty corners and were unlucky not no convert any. Corinthians began to play better hockey and began to attack. Superb defending from Kathy Taylor and Fiona Ellis restricted the visitor’s chances. Nearing the end of the first half the hockey went from end to end with both teams going for goal, but neither side converted leaving the scores level at the break.

The second half stared as the first had finished with some attractive end to end hockey. North won a string of penalty corners, but confusion arose over the ruling of where the injectors feet should be, this meant North failed to capitalise. North continued to press and good link-up play down the right between Taylor, Bill and Stevenson released Coey who slotted home, only for it to be disallowed for apparent use of the back of stick. Any attacks that Corinthians did produce were well stopped by the impressive Lesley Scates and Lyne Greenwood. Corinthians won a few short corners, but an “it’s my circle no matter what attitude” were well stopped by Adrienne De Costa. Although North had a lot of pressure and countless chances they were unable to convert and so the game went to extra time.

Both sides went all out attack as it was “Golden goal”, first goal won the match. Greenwood and Scates began to push higher up the pitch giving North the dominance again pressing the visitors back on their own 25yard line. Impressive play down the left from Ellis, West and Millar created more problems for the visitors. From one of these attacks North won a Penalty corner. West’s shot was well saved, but the rebound fell to Mockford who slotted the ball neatly into the net to give North the victory. This was a fantastic team performance with some positives and good individual performances to be taken from the game. North Down now meet Dublin side Railway Union at Comber in two weeks time, all support welcome.

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:: North Down progress in Irish Cup

By Robin Mitchell
20/10/2007

North Down entertained Newry in the first round of the Irish Cup on Saturday and ran out comfortable winners by 2-1.The margin of success would have been much greater had North Down taken some of the several chances that came their way.

In the first half North Down opened at a fast pace and it took only 7 minutes for them to take the lead. A strong run by Forrest, North Downs best player on the day, won a short corner. Although Speers' effort was saved Bailie was on hand to slot the rebound home. Forrest was wide with an effort and then the keeper made a fine stop from his strong shot. In the 23 minute Bailie extended the home sides lead when he was on hand to slot home a short corner variation. Some excellent play and quick interchange of passes created havoc in the Newry defence but shots were not on target. McGimpsey with a strong run found himself through with a 1v1 on the keeper but the keeper did well to push him wide of the goal.

The second half saw a poor performance from North Down and Newry were allowed to get into the game. However had North Down taken the chances that came their way early in the half Newry would have been out of sight. As often happens the side who fails to take their chance is punished and that is exactly what happened. Newry broke out of defence and totally against the run of play saw a cross from the left find McComb unmarked in front of goal and he had little trouble in slotting it past Coates. The Newry keeper was much the busier and he made fine saves from Forrest and Linter. With 2 minutes remaining Newry won their first corner of the game but thankfully were unable to get a shot on target and North Down progressed to the next round.

'Thirds winning streak continues......'

ND 3's entertained Civil Service at Comber on Saturday with a close fought first half. Skipper Pyper put the hosts ahead after 10 minutes through well placed short corner. Chances where squandered at both ends with a few fine saves from the welcomed return of Jim Boyd in the ND goal. North Down proceeded to play some good hockey, too narrow at times and when they went into the break all square after conceding a late Service goal, 'width' was definitely required in the second half

North Down came out determined to take all the points and changed their system with Dorian dropping from midfield to centre back. This changed the game with good inter links between Dorian and Johnston in the middle of the park, supplying Nicholls and Gray out wide. Service had little to answer with and North Down where soon in front with Pyper scoring his second from the edge of the area. Excellent running up the wing from Dazell almost made it three, but it was Johnston who got round the back of the defence setting up Pyper with an open goal to complete his hat-trick and secure the win. North Down where not finished yet with Gray scoring the fourth with a cool finish and Pyper scoring his fourth for the day, and his 100th goal for the club! FT 5-1

Other Games

The second eleven were defeated 4-2 at Kilkeel. Scorers were Rice his 100th goal for the club. What an achievement by the oldest swinger in town and Magee.

The fourth eleven were defeated 2-0 by Instonians

The fifth eleven defeated South Antrim 4-0 in their first league game of the season. Scorers were Shields, Dalzell, Haire and Moreland

Subs

All subscriptions must be paid by Saturday as the 310 October is cut off date

Disco

The annual Halloween Disco will be held on Saturday in the Clubhouse. It is hoped the event will be well supported.

Saturdays Fixtures

1st xi v NICS at Stormont 4.00
2nd xi v Annadale at Comber
3rd xi v Annadale at Lough Moss
4th xi v Annadale at Comber
5th xi No Game

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:: Mens 2nds fail in Kilkeel

By KM
20/10/2007

The 2nds met Kilkeel 2nds on Saturday at Kilkeel High School in the late slot at 4pm. The Comber lads facing a suspiciously strong Kilkeel side started the better and dominated the opening quarter. Stephen Magee hammered home for North Down opening the scoring. North Down then lost their way and Kilkeel capitalised on some sloppy North Down marking and passing. North Down prior to half time found themselves on the wrong end of a 4-1 score line. H/T 4-1
North Down started the second half and dominated from start to finish. The away side halved the arrears with a deft effort going in from Darren Rice to notch up his century for the club. Despite carving out chance after chance on the Kilkeel goal North Down could not convert their percentage play into goals. The Kilkeel keeper was in excellent form and saved well from Rice, Magee, Moore and Moreland. Kilkeel where restricted to one shout on target throughout the half with better defending in the second half. In the end Kilkeel held out and secured their first win of the campaign. F/T 4-2.
Man of the Match - Peter WHYTE

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:: Mens 2nds beat Garvey 3rds 8-2

By KM
13/10/2007

The 2nds were determined to confine last weeks performance against Banbridge III's in which they lost 6-2 to a distant memory and started their home encounter at Comber Leisure Centre against Lisnagarvey III at a high tempo. Within the first 13 minutes the Comber men were three goals up with two fine goals from Stephen Magee and one from Darren Rice. In a half totally dominated by the home side North Down created chance after chance but some last ditch defending by the Garvey defence held firm. However, with seven minutes remaining until the interval Magee bagged his hat-trick having evaded a number of tackles before slamming home. North Down made it five through Alan McMaster who neatly tucked his effort away past an advancing goal keeper right on the half time whistle. H/T 5-0
The second period saw Garvey determined to stop the one way traffic and they totally dominated the first 15 minutes of the second half under the stewardship of Ally Ross and Bruce Agnew. Better marking and robust tackling stemmed North Down's dominance. However, Ricky McMillan was to hit his first and the home side’s sixth in a sharp counter attacking move. Garvey with a never say die attitude grabbed a goal with a well taken short corner strike and they continued to give the match their all. Scotty Moore was to get on the score sheet with a deft touch after good stick work by Magee at the near post. McMillan found himself in the right place at the right time and thumped home number eight with Garvey responding with their second to reduce the arrears. The home side dominated until the end of the game and missed several gilt edged chances which could have seen a much higher score line. F/T 8-2
Next week North Down face Kilkeel in what will be a tough encounter at the High School and the seconds will be looking to take their form from this match with them to the old Boys.
Man of the match - Stephen Magee.

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:: Win for the Ladies

By Lyns S
13/10/2007

North Down hosted Portadown on Saturday and were determined to get all three points. North started the better team and within 10 minutes Lesley Scate’s perfectly struck corner put the home team in front. This then spurred Portadown on and they stepped their game up and put North under a great deal of pressure. Great defending from the injured Fiona Ellis kept Portadown at Bay, but then a lack of concentration saw the Portadown forward take advantage of a North Down mistake and crash the ball home to bring the scores level.

North created countless chances in the opponents’ circle in which Claire Coey and Hilary West were both unlucky to see their chances cleared of the line. From a North Down attack, the away side broke at pace and slotted the ball past the impressive Nicky Ferris to go into the break a goal up.

Stand in coach Alan McMaster made a few changes at half time which give the home side the edge over the opposition. Within minutes of the restart Claire Coey’s strike had levelled the match. At this point North were dominant and had plenty of chances. They won yet another short corner and with a great variation between Coey and Scates saw Coey smashing the ball into the net to make it 3-2.

As what’s happened in previous games, North started to let the other team boss the match and from another mistake Portadown equalised. North then stepped up to the mark and with two minutes to spare Hilary West fired home another penalty corner to give North Down the lead. Portadown finished the match well, but superb defending from youngster Louise Speers kept the score as it was and gave North the vital three points to keep them unbeaten in the league.

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:: North Down Disappoint at Antrim

By R Mitchell
13/10/2007

North Down travelled to Antrim on Saturday in a confident mood but a lack lustre performance saw them well beaten by a side more commited on the day.
Antrim dominated play in the first half and only a fine display by Coates kept the scoreline close.Antrim took the lead after 18 minutes When Steven Barr attempted to take a quick free but only succeeded in giving the ball away.With the defence out of position Coates had to be at his best to save the initial shot but was helpless with the rebound which was converted by Maybin.Good running by McGimpsey and Forrest was causing problems for the home defence and McGimpsey had a great chance to equalise before halftimeHe was through on goal but gave the ball away as he attempted to pass.Forrest won the ball back and passed to Mcgimpsey who only had the keeper to beat but he was not aware of the play and the chance was gone.
North Downs play improved in the second period and the Forrest brothers opened up the defence but the final shot went wide.From a 50th minutepenalty corner switch McIlroyscored at the left hand post to extend Antrim lead.The game was virtually over 3 minutes later When Maybin scored with a rasping shot from the edge of the circle.Almost immediately North Down were unlucky not to reduce the arrears.They won a short corner .The initial shot was saved and Forrests effort from the rebound cannoned of the post.With 10 minutes remaining Bailie had the ball in the net but the umpire brought play back and awarded a penalty flick.Justice was done when Speers converted from the spot.With minutes remaining a coming together of Barr and his opposite number resulted in both players getting their marching orders.Barr did not through any punches and was unlucky to receive similar punishment as his opposite number who app