Relegation looming for Raphoe following home loss

Raphoe Men’s 1st XI lose out to fellow relegation threatened North Down 1st XI on Saturday in the Premier Division.

Raphoe 2 -4 North Down

North Down came in to the game, knowing if they didn’t win, they would be relegated, while Raphoe now need to defeat Mossley next weekend and hope other results go their way in order to maintain their Premier Division status.

The day didn’t start well for Raphoe as before the game news broke of Zack West out injury & a late fitness assessment on Lecky required. Raphoe drafted in Watt, McKnight and McGonigle as backup.

North Down dominated the opening quarter, an early slip at the back nearly resulted in Raphoe falling behind within the first 30 seconds but Moore did well in the Raphoe goal. Seven minutes into the game however, they did concede what was to be the first of 2 goals against them in this first quarter.

A goal from open play and a penalty corner. The second quarter didn’t improve with an early goal leaked in to make it 3-0. James Wilson pulled one back for Raphoe soon after to give Raphoe a glimmer of hope in the scorching sun after good work from Lecky.

It was short lived though, as just before half-time, North Down hit the post but the rebound was converted to make it 4-1. An altercation at half time saw Eaton sin binned and captain Lyttle soon followed.

Raphoe did however hang on with the fewer players and when returning back to strength played their best quarter of hockey.North Down keeper having to make several superb saves, Goudie & Watt going close.

Raphoe soon got their reward, A penalty flick awarded for a reckless challenge on James Wilson, Alan Meehan cooly slotted in to make it 4-2 with the one quarter remaining. Despite an onslaught of pressure from Raphoe in the opening stages of the final quarter, The match ended 4-2 and Raphoe will travel to Mossley next weekend knowing a win may not even be enough.