Newry Olympic Mens 1s 5-1 NICS

Newry Olympic Men’s 1s played NICS on Saturday 8 March, hoping to reverse the last result against the Belfast side when they lost 3-2. The match was played at Markethill High School as the Belfast Road ground was still out of action as a result of storm damage to the floodlights.

Civil Service started well and took the lead in the first quarter with a slick move in the circle that ended with a tap-in at the back post. Newry struggled to cope with the Service press, but managed to hold on to the end of the first quarter.

The second quarter started with the home side now finding their feet in the game and they managed to put a few moves together which allowed them to equalise from a penalty corner scored by Davy England. They continued to control the play and managed to grab the lead before half time with Ryan Simms slotting home from close range after a deflected shot from Kris fletcher crept into his path.

The second half had it all as Newry really pressed NICS, scoring a third through Keith McWilliams, however Service won a penalty flick after the Newry keeper mistimed a tackle. Richard McGivern who was filling in for Richard Henning saved the flick and set Newry on their way with Keith McWilliams and David England both scoring again, to put the result to bed.

The win will give the boys confidence going into this week's game versus Raphoe at home, as they look to build momentum heading into their Linden Cup final in a few weeks time.

Newry Olympic Mens 1s v NICS

R. McGivern (GK), D. England, C. Henning, R. Simms, G. Moffett, J McWilliams, K McWilliams, A. Baird, J. Greer, C. Large, S. McCafferty, K Fletcher, M Murdock

Coach: Josh Porter, Manager: Norman Baird