Match Report

Match : 2nd XI v Larne 2nds
Date : 2002-12-14
Venue : H
Score : 2-0
Scorers : Irwin, Nicholl

By Stuart Campbell

From the start pushing forward with speed and aggression. Phil Irwin scored the first, a superb run off the left wing and slotting the ball between keeper and post for a fantastic goal to settle the nerves.

Just before half time Steven Nicholl added a second. A deflected short corner and Nicholl was quickest on the draw. 2-0.

2-0 up at half time but we knew Larne were still capable of fighting back.

East played the ball around well in the second half. Keeping possession and dictating the pace of the game. Slow to very slow. Alas this possession did not lead to more goals. The chances were there. Most notably Nicholl having the goal at his mercy from 2 yards out drilled the ball into the keeper three times rather than lift it over him.

All the team played well, giving a solid performance. But special mention to both Andrew Bell and Scott Hamilton who played brilliantly and have well and truly staked their claim to a regular place in the seconds.

The only down side to this game is that we did not win by more. It so easily could have been and maybe should have been 5 or 6 nil. Larne were hassled in every area of the pitch, one player even throwing his stick in frustration, being subbed and instantly fined for his trouble
This was very much job done for the day. Next week there is a tough game against league leaders Harlequins and then Bangor at home a game we cannot afford to lose.

Scott Hamilton