Opportunity Knocks

Newry missed a great opportunity to finally get a win over champions Linfield when the Blues grabbed victory with two late goals at the Showgrounds. Newry were dealt a blow before kick off with the news that Steven Ferguson would miss the game through injury, but started the game reasonably well. Linfield had a couple of efforts off target in the early stages, but Newry were defending well and beginning to ask questions at the other end of the pitch. On 26 minutes good work from Davidson and Downey set up Francis Murphy to fire home a fine effort. Newry maintained their lead until half time, but suffered a further blow when defensive midfielder Cullen Feeney was forced off with injury. Feeney was having a great game and was a big loss to the side.

The second half saw Linfield press for an equaliser and Garrett hit the post with a free kick. However, Newry were increasingly dangerous on the attack and Andy Graham (on for sub Paul Keenan who himself had to leave the pitch injured) was particularly lively. Graham had a great chance to put Newry 2 up, but Blayney made a fine save. That was to prove crucial as sub Curtis Allen fired across the Newry goal shortly afterwards and the ball cruelly deflected off Graham and into the net. Newry didn't let their heads go down and should have had the opportunity to retake the lead on 80 minutes. Alan Davidson was hauled down in the box but, inexplicably, referee Alan Black failed to point to the spot. Salt was poured into the wound moments later when Linfield took the lead. Newry lost the ball just outside the box and Munster passed to Allen who scored.

There was still time for more misery for Newry when Matt Hazley was stretchered off the pitch after a bad tackle which, amazingly, didn't even warrant a free kick in the eyes of referee Black. Hazley was taken to hospital in an ambulance and all at the club wish the young man well as he was in alot of pain as he left the ground.

So, once again, a 'what if' night for Newry and a great opportunity missed. Nonetheless, there were plenty of positives to take from a brave performance which showed definite signs of improvement. If we maintain our standards, then the results will improve. Starting with Donegal Celtic on Saturday.

Newry: Morley, King, Black, Munster, Convery, Feeney (Keenan {Graham}), Hazley, Downey (Murray), Davidson, Murphy, Rowe. Subs not used: McDonnell, Hagan
Newrycityfc.com Man of the Match: John Convery