Match Report

Match : 1st XI v Portrush
Date : 2008-12-20
Venue : H
Score : 3-5
Scorers : Michael McKenna (3)

By Kriss Leslie

With the return of the McKenna brothers from Dundee, East were looking stronger than what they had done in previous weeks. We were up against a good Portrush team who beat us 5-0 when we visited them in Ballycastle.

East got off to a good start with Michael McKenna putting East ahead about 10 minutes into the game. Portush then equalised not long after.

With around 5 minutes left East won a short corner, which eventually lead to East being awarded a penalty flick. That flick was scored, again by Michael McKenna.

The main objective was then to hold on until half time. However, we couldnt do that and Portrush scored right on half time. Something which damaged East spirits.

In the second half it remained 2-2 for around 10 minutes, when Portush then went ahead. East, being behind for the first time in the game, then had to push for the equaliser. An equaliser which they got after Alan Burgess found Michael McKenna with a great pass, who then finished fantastically well from a tight angle.

3-3, and East, on their home turf, had to push for the winner. We had the chances, but didnt take them. Portush then hit us on the counter attack and scored two quick goals to clinch the three points.

Overall, it was a good performance against a decent Senior 2 side. It must be remembered that we arguably lost the game because we pushed for the winner. Showing that at least we are now being competitive.

After the match everyone was gutted. Understandable considering we were on the verge of clinching our first win of the season. We have been becoming more frustrated over the results of matches this season, something which we didn’t worry too much about last year. Why?

Last season we knew we weren’t even in with the chance of competing in virtually all of our games. Now that we have improved, we are getting angry with ourselves as we know we are getting closer to that win. We have to stay patient and remember that it will come. Easier said than done of course. Once that win comes along, they will probably come along like buses. None for ages, then loads at once.

Happy New Year

Michael McKenna