Belfast Giants Induct To 2025 Hall Of Fame

Staff Reporter
-
0
Belfast Giants Induct To 2025 Hall Of Fame

Belfast Giants have confirmed the 2025 Gall of Fame Inductees

The Belfast Giants are proud to announce that George Awada, Stephen Murphy, Jason Ruff, and Jason Ellery will be inducted into the 2025 Belfast Giants Hall of Fame.

They will be joining an esteemed group of individuals whose influence helped shape the club’s remarkable journey over the past 25 years.

Belfast Giants’ coach George Awada celebrates with the Playoff Trophy after defeating the Cardiff Devils to win Sunday’s Elite Ice Hockey League Playoff Final at the Motorpoint Arena, Nottingham. (Photos by William Cherry/Presseye.)

The four inductees will be formally honoured in a pre-game ceremony before the Belfast Giants take on the Guildford Flames at The SSE Arena, Belfast on Saturday 13 December, officially recognising their outstanding contributions to the organisation both on and off the ice.

George Awada, Stephen Murphy, Jason Ruff, and Jason Ellery each played a defining role in the history of the Belfast Giants. George Awada, a current assistant coach of the Giants, was a respected player and captain during the club’s formative years and continues to make an impact today.

Stephen Murphy established himself as one of the most dependable and decorated goaltenders ever to wear teal. Jason Ruff brought the grit and determination that helped shape the identity of the early Giants teams.

And Jason Ellery, affectionately known as ‘Taff’, has long been a steady and invaluable presence behind the scenes as the team’s equipment manager. Together, they embody what it truly means to be a Giant.

Steve Thornton, Sports Director at The Odyssey Trust, said: “The Belfast Giants Hall of Fame is our way of recognising those who have gone above and beyond for this organisation – people who have given their time, energy, and heart to build something special for this team and this city.


Belfast Giants’ Stephen Murphy with Manchester Storm during the Elite Ice Hockey League game at the SSE Arena, Belfast.

“The class of 2025 represents the full story of the Belfast Giants, from the club’s formative years to the modern era of sustained success.

“All four of these incredible Giants helped lay the foundations of who we are, on and off the ice.

“Each of them has played a unique role in shaping the club’s identity, and this induction is a fitting way to recognise the impact they’ve had on our organisation and our fans.”

Belfast Giants’ Jason ‘Taff’ Ellery celebrates with the Playoff Trophy after defeating the Cardiff Devils to win the Elite Ice Hockey League Playoff Final at the Motorpoint Arena, Nottingham.

Since the club’s inception in 2000, the Belfast Giants have become far more than just an ice hockey team.

The Giants have become a symbol of unity and community for Belfast, built on the efforts of players, staff, and volunteers who have given their all for the jersey and the fans who fill The SSE Arena each week.

Belfast Giants Jason Ruff in action © Darren Kidd 9 3 2002.
.

The Hall of Fame, which was created as part of the club’s 25th season, exists to celebrate those individuals whose influence extends far beyond the ice, recognising moments and milestones that have helped make the Giants what they are today.

Commenting on his induction into the Belfast Giants Hall of Fame, Stephen Murphy said: “It’s an incredible honour to be inducted into the Belfast Giants Hall of Fame.

“I spent some of the best years of my career in Belfast, and it’s a place that means a lot to me and my family. The support from the fans, my teammates, and the organisation was always unbelievable.

“I’m proud to have played a small part in the history of this great club. To be recognised alongside these other greats is something I’m truly humbled by.”

George Awada, Stephen Murphy, Jason Ruff, and Jason Ellery will be officially inducted into the Belfast Giants Hall of Fame on Saturday 13 December, ahead of the Giants’ home game against the Guildford Flames.

Tickets for this game are on sale now and available to purchase here.

Ballynahinch Firsts Beleagured With Injury

Staff Reporter
-
0
Ballynahinch Firsts Beleagured With Injury

Hinch Firsts Beaten By Top Of League St Mary’s

AIL Division 1,

Venue: Ballymacarn Park, Saturday 6th December 2025,

Final Score: Ballynahinch 0 St.Mary’s 14.,

James Kirk reports.

League leaders St.Mary’s were the visitors to a soggy Ballymacarn Park on Saturday and were in no mood to join in the Christmas cheer being enjoyed in the clubhouse as supporters sat down to a festive feast.

They travelled with a settled side untroubled by the vagaries of the club versus province horse trading behind the scenes and ground out a victory which underlined their credentials as bona fide title contenders.

Conor Rankin kicks for territory. (Photos by John Dickson/Dickson Digital).

Adam Craig has seen his plans decimated by injury to key personnel over the past few weeks and Bradley Luney was the latest withdrawal on the eve of the match after confirmation that he has a significant knee injury and will be out until well into the New Year.

There was however good news with the return of Reuben Crothers in the back row while in the backs Paul Kerr moved to centre in the absence of the injured Mark Best and James Humphreys continued at outhalf.

Claytan Milligan during the AIL Round 8 assesses his options.

Ballynahinch played into the elements in the first half and showed superb defensive resilience as despite being pinned inside their own 22 for large parts of the opening quarter they made a succession of goal line stands to keep their Dublin opponents out.

However they failed to keep the ball on their rare forays upfield and were under significant pressure at the set piece.

The deadlock was broken when a missed tackle in midfield allowed hard-carrying number 8 Ronan Watters to surge towards the posts and over the line with the help of his team mates.

Matthew Burke on the attack.

The rest of the half remained scoreless and the home side turned around knowing that the points were within their grasp given the conditions.

However their set piece continued to misfire and they failed to kick themselves into good field position, allowing St.Mary’s to apply pressure and when the league leaders gained a foothold near the Ballynahinch line they turned their scrum supremacy into a pushover try from Watters, despite the strong suggestion of a knock-on as the ball flew out of the scrum.

A fourteen point deficit was always going to be difficult to overcome in wet conditions and as the game drew to a close St.Mary’s looked the more likely side to score as they maintained their place at the top of the table.

Aaron Sexton claims the high ball during the AIL R8 clash between Hinch and St Mary’s at Ballymacarn Park, Ballynahinch.

There is no respite for this battered and bruised Ballynahinch outfit as they travel to Clontarf next week for a Bateman Cup/AIL double header as the league reached its half way stage.

Kickoff is at 4pm and a large travelling support would be most welcome.

***

Ballynahinch RFC Round-up 06 12 2025

Club Notes

The Bateman Cup Final will be away to Clontarf on Saturday 13th December. The match will be a double header with AIL points also on the line. Kick off is at 4pm.

The 2nd XV continued their unbeaten season with a 64-0 drubbing of Clogher Valley to maintain their position at the top of the league.

Mike Evans and his band of 4th XV warriors finished the first phase of their league campaign top of the pile with a big win over Dungannon.

The Women’s Junior Cup semi-final and all youth fixtures fell foul of the weather.

The next AIL home fixture is against Clontarf on 10th January. To book your place at the pre-match lunch contact James Kirk on 07966143184.

Youth Training continues on Mondays at 7pm for boys and Wednesdays at 7pm for girls. All players U12/U14/U16/U18 welcome and no experience necessary. Contact Johnny Cullen for details on 07595651901.

Mini rugby continues on Saturday mornings from 9.30-11am. Boys and girls from P1 – Yr8 are all welcome, with training run for each age group in their school year. Mini rugby news is posted weekly on the club Facebook page – www.facebook.com/ballynahinchrfcofficial.

For more details contact Kenny Morton – Mini Convenor on 07813157614 or email [email protected].

Results 06/12/2025

Ballynahinch 0 St.Mary’s 14 (AIL Division 1A)

Ballynahinch 2 64 Clogher Valley 0 (2nd XV league)

Dungannon 3 0 Ballynahinch 4 49 (Provincial South).

SERC Runs Events For Global Enterprise Week

Staff Reporter
-
0
SERC Runs Events For Global Enterprise Week

Global Enterprise Week at SERC

Global Enterprise Week (GEW), part of the calendar of activities at South Eastern Regional College (SERC), got underway this month with a series of events designed to inspire, connect, and build real-world enterprise skills amongst students.

This years’ celebration theme, Together We Build, commenced with a session on Social Enterprise, hosted in the College’s Downpatrick Campus.

Led by Colin Jess, Chief Executive, Social Enterprise NI, students and staff, got to hear from a range of guest speakers, who are making a positive impact on local communities.

South Eastern Regional College’s (SERC), Global Enterprise Week celebrations, commenced with a guest speaker session on Social Enterprise, hosted in the College’s Downpatrick Campus.(l-r) Megan Rollins, SERC Innovation Advisor; Sarah Jane Mowbray, Silent Cuts; Robert Gardiner, Downpatrick and County Down Railway; Ailish Teague, Life Changes Changes Lives; Catherine Shipman, SERC Head of Engagement and Development; and  Colin Jess, CEO Social Enterprise NI.

These speakers included:

• Sarah-Jane Mowbray, from Silent Cuts, a pay-what-you-can hairdressing social enterprise supporting people experiencing homelessness and social isolation;

• Ailish Teague, from Life Change Changes Lives, a community wellbeing organisation providing creative workshops, peer support, and volunteering opportunities;

• and  Robert Gardiner, from Downpatrick & County Down Railway Society, the Heritage railway preserving Northern Ireland’s only full-size working railway and supporting volunteering and tourism.

Catherine Shipman, Head of Student Engagement at SERC said, “We were delighted to welcome three guest speakers to the college as part of our Global Enterprise Week celebrations.

“Our students were inspired by their passion, using social enterprise to transform lives, support the community and preserve local heritage.”

“Together We Build, couldn’t be a more fitting theme for Global Entrepreneurship Week.

“At SERC, we strive to build an entrepreneurial mindset with students, building opportunities with them to thrive as entrepreneurs of the future who solve problems with purpose and create opportunities that strengthen communities.”

In addition, the college hosted Innovation Camps, part of the Future Founders Programme in Bangor and Lisburn Campuses and practical workshops for students preparing for the college’s Christmas markets.

GEW also saw the introduction of three new Enterprise Champions who will help promote SERC’s Entrepreneur Club and enterprise activities across the college: Vikki Pinkerton, BTEC HNC in Graphic Design, Mark Brashier, Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Business, and Ryan McCauley, from Foundation Learning.

Visit: www.serc.ac.uk

Muir Provides Funds For Mournes Fire Recovery

Staff Reporter
-
0
Muir Provides Funds For Mournes Fire Recovery

Muir announces nearly £1million boost for Environment Fund nature projects

DAERA Minister Andrew Muir has announced an additional investment of £915,000 to support nature recovery projects through his department’s Environment Fund (EF) multi-year Strategic Strand.

The Mourne Heritage Trust has been successful in its bid for funding from DAERA.

This funding will enable 13 in-year projects across Northern Ireland to deliver vital work aimed at restoring ecosystems, enhancing biodiversity, and tackling environmental challenges.

Strategic Strand In-Year projects being supported include:

RSPB: Extending the LIFE Raft project on Rathlin Island to ensure complete eradication of invasive rats.  Grant Funding Request 2025/26 – £78,200.

National Trust: Successful in 3 projects – Forever Lough Neagh initiatives, Sheep Island biosecurity measures, and provision of static bat detectors and an accessible bird hide at Barmouth and Provision of path networks within the Divis and Black Mountain site.  Grant Funding Request 2025/26 – £345,149.70.

Wildfires in the Mournes cause very significant damage and DAERA has funded the Mourne Heritage Trust for £154,000 to offset this damage which leads to erosion and loss of habitat.

Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful (KNIB): Enhanced Adopt A Spot initiative.  Grant Funding Request 2025/26 – £26,169.31.

The Conservation Volunteers (TCV): Training on freshwater habitats, path refurbishment at Breen Oak Wood, and Sitka spruce removal at Altikeeragh Bog.  Grant Funding Request 2025/26 – £17,121.

Mourne Heritage Trust: Slieve Binnian erosion control, wildfire recovery plan implementation, drone survey capacity, and tree nursery enhancements at Dunnywater and Silent Valley.  Grant Funding Request 2025/26 – £154,500.

Ulster Wildlife: Black Guillemot nest boxes, Heligoland trap improvements and production of natural heritage training videos for planners and agents.  Grant Funding Request 2025/26 – £28,960.

Northern Ireland Environment Link (NIEL): Supporting diverse farmer and agri-sector engagement regarding nature-based solutions.  Grant Funding Request 2025/26 – £17,500.

Outscape: Enhanced People in the Outdoors Monitor NI (POMNI) – Deep Dive.  Grant Funding Request 2025/26 – £15,000.

Lough Neagh Partnership: Successful in 2 projects – Communications and outreach, including videography, advertising, community roadshows, farming consultation, story mapping, and expert input to curlew survey and tracking.  Grant Funding Request 2025/26 – £221,740.90.

River Blackwater Trust – NI Catchment Enhancement and Management Extend 0.5 FTE for the rest of 2025/2026.  Grant Funding Request 2025/26 – £11,000.

Minister Muir said: “I am delighted to announce this additional investment of almost £1 million through the Environment Fund’s Multi-Year Strategic Strand.

“Projects like these are delivering nature recovery across Northern Ireland.

“Urgent and sustained action is needed to halt and reverse biodiversity decline, and this funding provides a much-needed boost for our natural environment.”

How Emerging Technologies Are Transforming International Tax Policy 

Advertorial
-
0
How Emerging Technologies Are Transforming International Tax Policy 

January is approaching, and tax compliance seems ever-evolving. Yet, while Rachel Reeves has been squirrelling suggestions for the 2025 Budget, there are more transformations in the pipeline. Let’s be clear: emerging technology is transforming international tax policy with far greater impact than the UK Chancellor. 

Technological advancements have the potential to reshape global compliance and tax fairness. AI is boosting analytical power, digital-first is the new administration buzz phrase, and blockchain is decentralising data. It sounds far-fetched, but in reality, this technology could already be impacting your contributions. Here’s what international taxpayers should know.

Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash

 1. The Digital-First Shift in Tax Administration

Take a look at HMRC’s transformation roadmap. The primary goal is making 90% of customer interactions digital. That might not seem a large jump (the current balance is already 76%). However, it translates to near-elimination of paper-based filings and efficiency-increasing AI and software, like MS Office 365 Copilot. 

For international taxpayers, that means faster assistance with cross-border issues and more efficient Aprils to come. Forget the stress of physical documents lost in transit.

 2. AI & Data Analytics — Smarter Policy Design and Enforcement

To say that AI is streamlining analysis is a gross understatement. AI-assisted technology is informing and shaping tax policies; these tools are fast becoming vital government tools. 

Nationwide datasets are now ripe for the taking – AI can efficiently detect patterns of evasion or advise on adjusting tax rules to match forecasted revenue. That means smarter international policies, but it also strengthens enforcement capacity. International taxpayers should expect a dynamic future with HMRC.

 3. Blockchain, Distributed Ledger & Digital Assets — New Challenges and Opportunities

The truth is that blockchain has been quietly strengthening businesses for some time. The advanced encryption and decentralised approach are fantastic for data security, and naturally, these traits are appealing for international transfers.

As governments continue to invest in technology like AI and blockchain, there is heightened demand for tax specialists. International taxpayers should consult specialists who have updated their education to reflect the current technological environment. The right advisor will be fluent in compliance technology.

 4. Global Standards, International Cooperation and Tax Policy Convergence

Remote work, digital trade, and cross-border services are the norm. Digital globalisation has created a real gap in the international tax system – which country do you pay? And how much do you pay? As technology accelerates, the demand for globally coordinated policies will increase. There have already been projects to target base erosion and profit shifting; watch this space, an international rulebook is slowly evolving. 

As an international taxpayer, the financial year is never smooth sailing. Technology will undoubtedly redesign the foundations – for better and worse.

Cllr Lewis Announces Times For His Santa Visits

Staff Reporter
-
0
Cllr Lewis Announces Times For His Santa Visits

DUP Cllr Alan Lewis to join Santa in a Christmas warm-up around Slieve Croob areas

Slieve Croob Newry Mourne and Down District Council Councillor Alan Lewis has announced the date for his annual Santa Visit.

The DUP Councillor has organised this festive event since he was elected in 2019.

Santa along with Cllr Alan Lewis will be on the road around Slieve Croob on Thursday 19th December.

Cllr Lewis said: “As a child I always remember the excitement of the Santa visit which was organised by a local charity.

“I feel that as a community we have lost unique fun traditions such as this, so I wanted to bring it back and inject more fun and excitement into Christmas giving local children something to look forward to from the safety of their own garden.”

“I have a local man who decorates his landrover with tinsel and lights, we get Santa a chair, help him into the back and off we go. No reindeer required!

“In previous years HM Coastguard provided a blue light escort. If police want to get involved and support, they are more than welcome.”

Councillor Lewis added: “I am sure there are health and safety concerns, but we take her easy, Santa is a professional.

“We have selected estates in Spa, Seaforde and Clough, and we will also visit Ballyward. I have some sweets and lollies for the children, it all adds to the fun. Full details will be published on my social media channels.”

“In previous years people have come forward and offered us money. I never had a collection, I just did it out of my own pocket for the fun of it.

“However, it occurred to me that we could help a local charity while also having a bit of craic. In previous years we chose the NI Air Ambulance as a charity and we now support the Air Ambulance with an annual quiz. This year the Santa collection will go to Daisy Lodge in Newcastle, towards the Cancer Fund for Children.”

Cllr Lewis has confirmed that he will be visiting the following areas on Thursday 19 December:

• Spa at 7pm,

• Seaforde at 7.45pm,

• Clough at 8.15pm,

• finishing in Ballyward at the church hall car park at 8.45pm.

East Down AC On The Run Up To Christmas

Staff Reporter
-
0
East Down AC On The Run Up To Christmas

East Down AC runners enjoy winter events

Runners from the East Down AC this past week have participated in a number of events as everyone is on a countdown to Christmas Day.

The East Down ACs Roisin Gaffney was on the Park Run tour, taking part at the St Anne’s Park Run, Dublin, where she was joined by over 400 runners at this great event.

And EDACs Paddy Smith, Sharon Madine and Suzy Smith took part in the Aghacallon Santa Run, a great event which this year is supporting Evora Hospice charity. There were two distances to take on – the 3 km or 5.75 km. 

EDACs Sharon Madine, Suzy Smith and Paddy Smith and the man of the moment before the Aghacallon Santa Run.

Dee Murray, Dermot Cahill and Janine Murray took part in the Tollymore 10k Charity event in aid of Mourne Mountain Rescue Team, a great cause for those in difficulties in the Mournes.

Roisin Gaffney at the St Anne’s Park Run in Dublin. (Photos courtesy of East Down AC).
(l-r) Dee Murray, Dermot Cahill and Janine Murray at the Mourne Mountain Rescue Team fundraising run.
Paddy Smith, Sharon Madine and Suzy Smith ready for the Aghagallon run.
Sharon Madine with Suzy and Paddy Smith and Santa at the Aghagallon Santa Run.

Comber’s Sofley Bags 4 Goals Against Rosario

Staff Reporter
-
0
Comber’s Sofley Bags 4 Goals Against Rosario

Comber Rec Claim The Points Against Rosario with 4 goals from James Sofley

The NAFL,

Premier League,

Venue: Park Way, on 6th December 2025,

Final Score: Comber Rec 4 0 Rosarion YC.

Comber Rec got off to a dream start against Rosario YC when James Sofley on fire nailed the first of his four goals against the visitors as he constantly put their defenders under pressure with his fast breaks writes Jim Masson.

Dylan Wilson was creating havoc in the Rosario defence early on and won a throw in taken by Dylan Donaldson. The ball went to the head of Comber captain Simon Hanna nodding down to the feet of James Sofley in the goal mouth who knocked the ball in on just three minutes into the game.

James Sofly on the ball for Comber Rec scoring 4 goals against Rosario YC. (Photos: Jim Masson/DownNews). ©

This was a hammer blow for Rosario. Wilson again crossed to Donaldson who was rattling the Rosario defenders every opportunity.

But Rosario came back into the game and Peter Whan hit a volley over the Comber top bar. Then it was Donaldson’s turn to hit and his shot was just wide.

Then in the 14th minute Wilson crossed to Sofley facing the goal – he first -imed it in giving keeper Mark Hynes no chance.

Again Rosario fought back and won a free kick inside 40 yards but it was well held by Corey Pollock.

James Sofley was on for at Park Way.

And Rosario fancied their chances and tried to pull a goal back and won a free kick in the right and the corner was fudged as keeper

Pollack made three attempts to get the ball under control as Rosario attempted to score.

It was to be 45 long minutes into the second half after a number of attacks by the Comber front line that Sofly bagged his hat-trick. Comber had dominated the game mainly.

Then Rosario’s Dominic McConville hit a solid volley on target but it was well held by Pollock and again a short time later McConville was on target again forcing Pollock to punch the ball clear.

Sofley sneaks another goal in over the line at close quarters.

Then Rosario left winger Jack Wilson hit a cracker but Pollock was on form and held it well.

On 54 minutes Elliot Wilson came on of the bench and Donaldson got a rest after his constant workrate. This added a more physical element to the Comber front line.

Within minutes Sofley was almost through again and eventually he received a cross from Elliot Wilson and hit close in making no mistake notching up his hat-trick.

Softley softly as Sofly takes 4th goal.

Rosario began to feel the match was turning into a done deal as Comber clocked up the goals but they battled on.

Kris Gaw wearing the Number 11 shirt hit a low pile-driver but it was inches wide of the post.

Then Sofley knocked in another goal at close range on 69 minutes – he was the end of the Comber sharp stick and he delivered well.

At this stage the wind seemed to come out of Rosario’s sails. The Wilson brothers had a spell leading up front keeping the ball out of their own half.

The final whistle came and the Comber fans were delighted at the result.

James Sofley was awarded the Player of the Match title by Adam Whitehead and Gary Thompson of the Comber Supporters’ Club.

Player of the Match: James Sofley with Comber Supporters’ Club members Gary Thompson and Adam Whithead. (Photo: Jim Masson/DownNews

THis was another strong performance by Comber Rec who got off to a ropey start early in the seaon and had players unavailable through injury (such as Reece Tumilson and Chris Murray.)

Comber Rec: 1 Corey Pollock (GK) 2 Stephen Fleck 3 Brandon Nelson 4 Lex Walker 5 Christian Irvine 6 Matthew Gibson 7 Dylan Wilson 8 Simon Hanna (C) 9 James Sofley 10 Dylan Donaldson 11 Kristopher Gaw. Subs: 12 Stuart Moore 14 Eliot Wilson and 15 Tommy Hammill.

Rosario YC: 1 Mark Hynes (GK) 2 Dominic McConville 3 Daniel O’Connor 4 Ciaran Vernon (C) 5 Mark Guerin 6 Daniel Goodacre 7 Max Miller 8 Eain McCarthy 9 Peter Whan 10 Padraig Scollay 11 Jack Wilson.

View Action photos on the Down News Facebook page

Nurse Helen Herron Celebrates 41 Years Service

Staff Reporter
-
0
Nurse Helen Herron Celebrates 41 Years Service

Ards Hospital Nurse Helen Herron is celebrating over four decades of service

Ards Hospital Outpatients Nurse, Helen Herron, is celebrating an outstanding milestone of 41 years in Nursing within the South Eastern HSC Trust.

Helen began her career in 1984 and has worked across a range of departments throughout the Trust, bringing compassion, expertise and dedication to every role.

For the past 13 years, she has been a valued member of the Outpatients Department at Ards Hospital, where her experience and commitment continue to make a lasting impact on staff and patients.

(l-r) South Eastern HSC Trust Outpatients Sister Sharon Amanda Moore congratulates Helen Herron, Ards Hospital Outpatients Nurse, on her 41 years service.

Reflecting on her career so far, Helen said: “I have loved working with many Teams over the years and especially with my colleagues here in the Outpatients Department.

“And I have loved working with patients, providing hands-on care and being part of a Multi-Disciplinary Team.”

South Eastern Trust Outpatients Sister, Sharon Amanda Moore, congratulated Helen on her remarkable service and added: “Helen is a great asset to the Outpatients Department and can cover any of the clinics.

“She has an absolute wealth of experience and knowledge behind her. The Student Nurses love her and she is a wonderful mentor to all the students here in Outpatients.”

Saintfield Make Comeback To Beat St Lukes

Staff Reporter
-
0
Saintfield Make Comeback To Beat St Lukes

Saintfield come out on top after spirited comeback

THE NAFL,

Walter Moore Cup R2,

Venue: Pigeon Hill, Saturday 29th December 2025,

Final Score: Saintfield Utd 3 2 St Lukes.

Saintfield hosted St Lukes in the second round of the Walter Moore Cup on Saturday at Pigeon Hill – a team currently sitting second in the league above in 11th spot while Saintfield in Division 1C is in 7th place writes Jack Brown.

St Lukes enjoyed long spells of possession, with quick passing through the middle making it difficult for the Saints to take stock of what was in front of them. However, from back to front, Saintfield were happy and comfortable to stay disciplined and keep their shape, hoping to put the youthful flanks to good use.

The Saints knew they would soon get a share of their chances, and this seemed to be the one of them when it started off with a long throw in the attacking third, but it led to St Lukes breaking in numbers in the transition.

Saintfileld equalised in their fight back against St Lukes and finally got the winner.

A cross-field ball was taken in stride by a midfielder whose rushed decision, under pressure from oncoming goalkeeper Ben Thompson, resulted in a lob that went wayward. However, a runner from behind the deepest defender converted into the empty net to draw first blood.

In typical fashion, it didn’t take long for the Saints to respond. When the St Lukes defence cleared a set piece from a high line, Paddy, keen to stop another counter-attack, took control of the ball, chopped on the outside to deceive the nearest attacker, and floated a perfect 25-yard pass to the corner of the box with his weaker foot.

New joiner Ben Thompson picked it out of the sky, set himself with another touch, and with his third touch smashed it into the back of the net to equalise.

With their tails up, urgency swept across the team, and the youngest squad player, Harry, nearly scored when a pass from the left found him in space. He hit a shot towards the near post, forcing a good save from the St Lukes keeper.

See ACTION PHOTOS ON DOWN NEWS FACEBOOK LINK

The contest was fairly even in the first half in terms of clear-cut chances, but Saintfield knew they had to stay concentrated at the start of the second half to avoid an uphill battle. However, two minutes into the half, St Lukes took the lead once again when a well-worked move from their right found a player in the box.

A quick pass avoided the wall of red and black shirts, reaching the striker, who further helped it on to their winger. The winger struck just below the crossbar from 10 yards out, giving Ben no chance and handing them the lead once again.

But the Saints weren’t trailing for long. Harry put his body between man and ball, winning a foul from 35 yards out and giving Sam R the chance to swing his trademark dead-ball cross into the box.

The high line cost St Lukes as at least three Saintfield players timed their runs to find themselves alone in the box. Captain Paddy trailed his side back into the game, directing a firm header back across the keeper to register his second goal involvement and bring the game back to 2-2.

Through sheer determination, for every St Lukes player contesting the ball, there were at least two Saintfield players working hard to win it back.

In the heart of this, Jamie, Sam R, and Sam S worked well as a trio to cover the width of the pitch, while the energetic Josh and reliable Aaron snuffed out crosses and diverted danger. With Saintfield now getting more touches on the ball, St Lukes realised it wasn’t going to be an easy afternoon at Pigeon Hill, as legs did not seem to tire for a rejuvenated Saintfield.

Callum and Harry served as the extra man wherever needed, and after a turnover in midfield, Harry was released down the right, using his pace to gain 2-3 yards and give himself time to lift his head and pick out opposite winger Calum with a lofted ball.

On his deadly left foot, Callum set himself and struck a fantastic shot that flashed across the face of the goal and nestled into the other side of the net, sparking adulation and completing the comeback.

With still 20+ minutes to go, Saintfield had to finish the job, but the entire team dealt well with every threat: marauding runs from centre-backs, long balls, and overloads. The defence seemed impenetrable, and even the last line of defence, Ben Thompson, commanded his box with confidence, catching everything with assurance.

Good work from Josh Barr down the left set Calum on his way to skip past a challenge and hit a low, teasing cross into no-man’s land, where Matthew reacted quickest ahead of his marker to poke home from six yards and give Saintfield a comfortable 4-2 lead with five minutes to go.

Ater seeing out the last couple of pushes from the opposition, Saintfield booked their ticket into the next round of the Walter Moore Cup.

See ACTION PHOTOS ON DOWN NEWS FACEBOOK LINK

1...798081...1,878Page 80 of 1,878