22nd Old Boys & Ladies FC   

Saturday 16th March 2019

Whiteside Cup 

Group B 

22nd Old Boys lll 7-3 Glenavy lll

The 2's went into the game knowing a win would put them in the SF. The game kicked off with 2's pressing from the start and it didn't take long to open there account. The 2's were awarded a free kick just outside the 18, up stepped Clarke Bacon the better twin to curl the ball over the wall and into the net 1 nil perfect start. The 2's continued to press forward and after avoiding a few tackles Burrows slid the ball to larkin who placed the ball  passed the keeper 2 nil it was all 22nd. It didn't take the 2's long to grab there 3rd when another free kick was awarded same outcome again Clarke Bacon grabbing his 2nd off the match, 3-0 and looking in control. Then the 2's took the foot off the pedal when Maha played a blind ball which sent the glenavy forward away one on one, he rounded the keeper to make it 3-1. Then 5 minutes later it was 3-2 when a cross from the right found the glenavy striker who headed it home wake up call for the 2's. The 2's continued to go forward and a square ball out to the right to larkin who took a touch 25 yards out  and walloped it into the other corner off the net giving the keeper no chance, 4-2. Joe then made a great save diving down to his left to keep the 2 goal advantage. As the game was approaching ht burrows had a chance with the keeper beat by the bounce burrows chased the ball as it was about to go out burrows stretched out a leg only to see the ball hit the post. But the 2's did score and it was that man Bacon again grabbing his hat trick when he followed up a Curtis free kick, 5-2. Ht.

The 2's began the 2nd half on the front foot with Larkin, Bacon and Irvine causing the glenavy defence all sorts off problems and with Vance, Burrows and Breen controlling the midfield it was all 2's. With 55mins gone the 2's made 2 subs with Fitzsy and new signing Aiso replacing Bacon and Nesbitt. On 65 minutes glenavy grabbed a 3rd from the penalty spot when the ball came off breen leg and hit his arm soft pen, 5-3. 2's made another sub with Dean Larkin replacing Burrows. Then on 70 minutes the 2's were reduced to 10 men with Fitzimmons receiving a 2nd yellow for decent. This gave Glenavy a boost and who had chances  to score only for the 2's keeper pulling off some fine saves. The 2's were holding onto there 2 goal lead and on 80mins the 2's broke forward.trick. The 2s weren't finished and a cross field ball by Irvine found Larkin on the right who beat his man and a perfect cross found the in coming Dean Larkin who headed the ball into the net, 6-3. There was just time for Michael to see a shot saved by the keepers leg the ball bounced nicely for larkin to loft the ball over the keepers head to make it 7-2 and also his hat trick, 7-3 ft.

J.OGrady C.Nesbitt N.Mawhinney  C.McBride C.Jarvis J.Burrows S.Vance B.Breen M.Irvine R.Larkin Clarke Bacon. 

Saturday 3rd February 2017

SAFL Div 2

Woodvale park

22nd Old Boys lll 0-0 FC Lisburn ll

Today saw 2nd take on 3rd place and the 2s made a few changes after last week's dismal display. With the silverback Thomas McComish given 1 more game or face the chop as the axe hovers and pressure mounts.

The game kicked off and just like last week the 2s got there passing going. It was a joy to watch as fc tried to get a touch but the 2s were having none off it, everytime fc got the ball the 2s were in the faces getting it back. Then on 20mins a lovely through ball by Gilmore found Bell inside the 18 yard box Bell steadied himself side footed the ball past the goalkeeper only to see the ball go inches wide off the far post.The 2s continued to press but couldnt find that goal that there dominance deserved. But on 40mins the fc defender made his way down the right his cross was heading towards the top corner only for Dane to get a finger tip till it and pull off a brilliant save. Ht 0-0.

The 2s made a sub bringing off the tiring RYAN SIMMS who was replaced by Harvey the 2s changed formation going 4-4-2 and right away Harvey broke away down the right, his low cross into the box beat all the 2s players and was bundled away by the fc defence. The 2s continued to press again Harvey broke away 1 on 1 with the keeper he hit a tame shot and the keeper saved with his foot much to the dismay off laughie who was there for an easy tap in. You always get a moment were all you can do a is laugh and that happened in the 60min when the ref blew for offside the fc forward pushed Jono to the ground as jono lay face down in the muck he lifted a handful off muck as he got up he threw the muck straight at the fc forward smack direct hit to the face off the forward even the ref laughed. Then on 70mins fc hit the bar .As the 2s continued to try and look for that much needed goal they were awarded a freekick which Gilmore took but the keeper turned it over the bar. Unfortunately for the boys all their pressure couldn't get that decisive goa. Ft 22nd 0-0 fc united.

Note THOMAS MCCOMISH YOU JOB IS HANGING BY A THREAD TICK TOCK😂😂

D.Maxwell J.Hamilton D.McCrudden C.Nesbitt A.Colins E.Gilmore C.Lindores T.Bell R.Simms L.Robinson A.Patterson

SUBS M.Harvey M.Johnston L.Nithsdale.

Saturday 27th January 2017

SAFL Div 2

Woodvale Park

22nd Old Boys lll 0-4 Lagan Swifts ll

After beating lagan swifts at the start off the season 7-0 surely this should be another 3pts for the 2s to continue there fine form this season.But after last week's close call the management told the players 3pts is needed and they would have to earn it.

So the match kicked off in terrible conditions with the wind playing a major part off the 2s play. The 2s were trying to force the ball with each pass was and as a result was either too long or to high. The 2s were having a hard time trying to adapt to the windy conditions its doesnt matter how much pocession you have you need to create chances and the 2s couldnt do it that and was there downfall as on 35mins lagan scored with there 1st attack the ball dropped to the lagan player who hit it under the diving mccann 0-1 .HT.

The 2s were given a few harse words at HT by the managenent if things didnt inprove after 10mins changes were going to be made.

2nd half got under way and it was the same as the 1st plenty off posession but creating nothing .1st sub was made robinson coming off for nithsdale on the wing and johnston moving to CF .Another 2 attacks another 2 goals for swifts this wasnt in the script, 3nil down with 10mins to go. Swifts got there 4th when mcgarry brought down there forward who took the pen 0-4 FT and an end to a disappointing display. Big Silver back under pressure next Saturday.

M.McCann J.Hamilton J.McKimm Megarry B.Morrison C.Douglas M.Johnston D.McCrudden E.White J.Thompson L.Robinson.

Saturday 25th November 2017

Safl Div 2

Barbour

FC United Lisburn ll 1-2 22nd Old Boys lll

Boys travelled to Lisburn for a league fixture and the first incident of note was Willy pinging the ball 30 odd yards and hitting Baffer on the loaf while he was delivering his team talk. The hollow sound reverberated around Lisburn.

The game started with 22nd playing into a bitter cold wind. They 2's looked dangerous easy on with some nice play down the left almost resulting in an opening goal. Lisburn looked dangerous with their quick striker up top and he was unfortunate when Curtis looked to have mistimed a tackle but the ref waved away appeals for a Lisburn penalty. To rub salt into their wound Gary brought the ball forward and found Jacky with a cracking pass who rounded the keeper and finished to put the 2's 1-0 up. Both teams battled away and McCann made a good save diving to his right to turn the ball away. Dean moved into centre midfield brought a bit more stability and Ross started to miss chances with a header wide. Unfortunately some poor defending saw a neat flick thumped into the roof of the 22nd net to make it 1-1. Curtis and smooch got themselves sorted at the back and looked very solid. Young Michael working hard and Eddie running away from tackles. Alex looked like he was still at Shine as he was a bit off the pace. While Jacky started to run the midfield. The half drew to a close at 1-1 with the game finely balanced.

Second half saw the game go end to end both teams searching for a winner. But Ross had other ideas he was determined to miss as many chances as possible ( had he a tenner on Lisburn ? ). A bit of a mix up and some dogged play saw Jacky sweep home the second 22nd goal to put them 2-1 up. Unfortunately things were made a bit easier when Lisburns danger man was shown a harsh red for his second booking. The 2's were still keen to add to their total and Alex looked to have added a third on for the ref to rule that the ball hadn't crossed the line. The Lisburn keeper made a fantastic save to deny Jacky his hatrick at the near post. Another 22nd break saw a great cross for Ross 2 yards out with net at his mercy 3-1 you would think ? No Ross was keeping his bet alive and tried to knock down a satellite. Terrible miss and the crowd let him know by rolling around the ground in hysterics (no sympathy at our club). Curtis and Smooch made some telling clearances and with Eddie removed for the more nimble Daniel things were shored up and the game seen out and result secured.

M.McCann C.Douglas C.Nesbitt D.Bell G.Gillespie J.Burrows A.Patterson E.White M.Irvine D.McCrudden R.Douglas

Subs

D.Karim W.Devlin S.Graham

Saturday, 16th September 2017

Ironside Cup Round 1

Wedderburn

Sandy Row II v 22nd Old Boys III

The 22nd went into this game with four off the under 19s and playing a team that was a league above, we knew it was going to be a hard 90 minutes ever so more as the under 19s had played all ready that morning.

The game got underway with Sandy Row having plenty of possession but not threatening the 2s. It took the hosts until the 20th minute to have their first chance on goal, there striker hitting the corner flag instead off the net. Shortly after this, he had not 1 but 5 times to score but failed hitting the ball high and wide each time. It was obvious that he must have been on the Buckie on the Friday night. With Sandy Row missing their chances, 22nd didn’t waste theirs with Moke having his shot on goal, it was spilled by the keeper and there was Megarry to hit the net. 1-0 22nd.

Then the 2s grabbed a 2nd. Megarry ghosted passed three Sady Row players before slidding the ball passed the keeper to grab his second goal 2-0 22nd at Half time.

The 2nd half started with Sandy Row pressing the 2s. At this stage, the 2s made a sub with pastie replacing simms. Five minutes later, Sandy Row grabbed a goal 2-1.

The 2s centred but gave the ball away. Straight away, it came to their forward who hit the ball on the half volley into the corner off the net giving the Silverback no chance. 2-2.

It got worst for the 2s with Curtis Nesbitt seeing red down to 10 men. Now having the upperhand, Sandy Row continued to push forward having a couple off efforts on goal but the silverback was there to save the day. Then on the hour mark, 22nd saw McKmm limp off after a terrible tackle the ref deemed to be fair. Should have gone to spec savers, as McKimm’s leg looked like a golf ball coming out off it.

With the game into the final ten miuntes, Sandy grabbed a 3rd with the game coming to an end the 2s had 1 final change when Carbery crossed from the byline, up rose Robinson with a bullet header only to head at the keeper.

ft Rangers3-2 22nd III

McCombish Simms C.Nesbitt McKimm Carson Megarry McCrudden Patterson Carbery L.Robinson Devlin

SUBS Davison Passmore Fitzsimons McCready

Saturday 9th September 2017

SAFL Div 2

Woodvale Park 

22nd Old Boys lll 2-3 Silent Valley 

The match started off with both teams creating a few chances but due to the pitch being wet and the ball skidding off the surface chances were few and far between. The first real chance came when Eddie white played a perfectly weighted pass through to Andy mccann on the overlap and he put a perfect cross in first time onto Laurence Robinsons head, who leapt like a salmon,  made no mistake. 1-0 22nd. the first half finished with 22nd battering the silent valley defence but couldn't find the goal. 1-0 HT

Silent valley started the second half the better of the 2 sides and got the breakthrough when the 22nd got caught out when they had a corner and silent valley hit them on the counter attack 1-1. Shortly after silent valley went ahead with a very well struck shot from outside the box into the bottom corner. The 22nd then got the equaliser with a lovely header at the back post from Matic . With around 5 minutes remaining the 22nd made a mistake at the back which resulted in the silent striker going through on goal, he rounder the keeper and put the ball into the empty net. FT 3-2 silent valley.

R.Millar, A.McCann, C.Nesbitt, J.Menabney, L.Nesbitt, J.Thompson, J.McKimm,  G.McCauley, A.Patterson, E.White, L.Robinson 

Subs 

R.Simms, L.McCready, W.Devlin, R.Davison

Saturday 3rd September 2016 

SAFL Div 2 

Woodvale Park 

 22ndC 4-2 Bootle St

With the first game of the season ready to be played, in a new league for 22nd C there was an extra bite to the game due to it being a local derby against 2nd B aka Bootle Street. Furthermore this also seen the fixture being added with more spice with Bryan 'Burger' Elwood and William 'Moke' Devlin playing against their former club.

Competitive debuts where also handed to Gareth Hamilton, Trigger and David Simpson making his return to the team.

With the 22nd on the front foot from the get go, The stand in manager Tom 'Silverback' McComish opting for a 4411 formation, the 22nd were controlling the midfield. Gareth Hamilton with the composure and Curtis Lindores with the legs and height giving Bootle street very few opportunities to attack the 22nd back four.

The breakthrough came with a ball played over the top and the chasing Moke wanting to make it his own, got there and 50/50 the Bootle street goalkeeper and win it with ease to then slowly drift into an empty net. 1-0 22nd.

The next 5 minutes are all important in a game of football. Tom screaming on the side line to keep the ball and not to give away anything silly. Shortly after, 22nd conceded a corner and to everyone's dismay, considering the physical and height advantage, the ball was played to the back post, to an unmarked man, to head the ball into the back of the net, 1-1.

With the game turned on its head within 5 minutes, Bootle street were pouring on the pressure on the 22nd back line. The ball fell to the back post once more to an unmarked man for a sizzling shot, only to be blocked by Glen McDowell and his hand. penalty! With the 22nd in dismay at how the referee could see it is questionable but the ref won't change his mind, it was Burgers time to show the gaffer why he was in the team. SAVE! with a terrible penalty Burger still got a strong leg to it and the score remained 1-1.

With this, confidence now behind the 2's they then started pressuring the Bootle street back four, Stephen Beattie with a very tame shot snuck by the Bootle streets GK, To give the 22nd a 2-1 lead.

Half time.

Tom and Baffer taking the half time team talk, the gaffer emphasised how much the wingers were not being utilised. With the frustrated James Thompson not seeing much of the ball.

The second half began in sluggish fashion with both teams having half chances. Bootle street number 8 then broke through the midfield with a long range shot to sting the gloves of Burger, which resulted in another corner. Again the ball is played to back post with a clearance of the line, but felll for Bootle street to calmly tuck the ball into the back of the net. 2-2.

The game restarted and with again a few half chances for each team. The breakthrough for the 2's then comes from a fortunate ball over the top, to then the emerging Trigger to slot the ball home and put the we 2's 3-2 up!

The pressure continued with the 2's on the front foot from the restart and with 10 minutes to go, Stephen Beattie with the most delightful ball on to the run of Curtis Lindores was never being caught with a stride in the legs that would give Usain Bolt a decent test, to then tuck the ball home to give the 2's a commanding 4-2 lead. Glen McDowell was the happiest man in Belfast at this point.

With the game in injury time, the Bootle street kept going to the end and got a very fortunate penalty again. With Burger already a penalty save under his belt, he wanted to make sure the previous penalty save was no fluke. Bootle street opting to change the penalty taker, up stepped the Bootle street attacker. With Burger watching and giving the eyes he dives to his right with an acrobatic save that was something out of the premier league. Awesome from the 22nd GK. With that done, the final whistle was blown and end of the game. 4-2 winners for the 2's.

A special mention goes to the two youth players who stepped up and played a very good game with men at least double their age and did not look out of place. Well done Kane and James.

There was no man of the match announced but S.Beattie, W.Devlin, D.Simpson and B.Elwood all can take great pride in how they played. Also well done to the debuts of G.Hamilton and Trigger on a job well done.

TB.Elwood, G.Mcdowell, J.Young, D.Simpson, K.Sheehan, J.Thompson, G.Hamilton, C.Lindores, S.Beattie, W.Devlin, M.Trimmings

SUBS: T.Clare, T.McComish, F.Robinson, M.Cure

22ndC End of season report 2015/16

22ndC started the season knowing that this was probably going to be the last ever season of the BBOB league. They got of to a poor start loosing 2 and drawing 1 of their opening 3 games. But true to their never say die approach they won 5 games in a row to push them right up the table.

Unfortunately November and December were a bit of a disaster loosing 6 games in a row and slipping into the bottom half of the table. This was due to a very difficult run of fixtures and the fact that A.team had lost a few players so the C.team suffered a domino effect.

In the new year W.Adams men rallied thanks to stalwart D.Passmore and the impressive J.Young. Other players lifted their game and the boys won 4 in a row ending with a very unlucky Quarter Final exit in AET in the Bunting Cup at the hands of the 68thA.

The boys battled on and finished the year a creditable 5th in Bbob Div 1. Ending with a 3-1 win over old rivals 92ndB.

The league ran a supplementary competition and mixed fortunes saw the 22ndC qualify for the semi final of the Supplementary Plate and lost out in controversial circumstances to eventual winners Crosscollyer.

This ended the 22nds 62 year affiliation with the Bbob league and saw its closure a very sad time in junior football as this once great league had 8 Divisions at one stage. A lot of teams in junior football all over Antrim and Down started of in the Bbob league a shame but life goes on and it opens up an exciting chapter for next season for the 22ndC. Where will they go ?

30th April 2016

BBOB Supplementary Plate Semi-Final

Mallusk

22nd C v Crosscollyer

We started off well passing the ball about nicely. A few tasty tackles from both sides giving away silly free kicks, which led to nothing. 

Up like a salmon, Passmore won every ball that they tried going route 1 for pretty much all of the first half. 

Even seen "pastie" do a dive or 2 aswell. 0-0 HT.

Second half we got an early corner were Passmore was trailed down in the box and the ref must have forgot his glasses and waved play on. Another corner shortly after, Irvine hit the ball towards the net, after a scramble and one of the crosscollyers defenders made a super save off the line (im sure his hands stinging) Referee again didnt see it. 

Mccomish took the ball from a short throw in and tried to clear it, it hit off the wingers arm and he rattled one in to the top corner.
On came manager/player willy adams and he nearly made it level within a few minutes of coming on with the keeper making a good save. From this corner young Passmore fouled again but the ref didnt see it. 

Injury time now and Robinson was sent through on goal 1 on 1 and the defender caught up just inside the box and fouled him, he stayed on his feet and managed to get the shot away forcing the keeper to make a great save. 1-0 FT

Carrigan Hall Passmore Hunter McComish Burrows Lindores Robinson Graham G.McDowell Irvine 

6th February 2016 

Bunting Cup Quarter Final 

3 Mile Water 

68thA 4-1 22ndC AET

Game started on a very soggy pitch with the 22nd making the early running amid a few hefty challenges. Though the 1st chance of note came when J.Burrows was judged to have fouled 68th player in the box, penalty. Up stepped their goalkeeper.... only to see his spot kick saved very well by W.Cheung in 22nd nets. Then the break through a great ball from S.Vance saw Maitland throw himself at the ball and score a diving header great finish. Someone was heard from side line shouting his belly helped propel him. 1-0 22nd. 

The 2's stepped it up with impressive McAneney winning tackle after tackle in the midfield and as a result a great through ball saw M.Chism race through only to skew his shot over. Minutes later after more great football Chism was through once again only to see the keeper make a fine save. 1-0 h/t.

2nd half started with 68th on front foot and straight away Cheung produced a fine save to keep 2's in front. The 68th looked dangerous from set plays n it was to prove the route for their equaliser. With a header a back post bouncing in 1-1. 

The 2's thought they had taken the lead on 2 occasions both times ball in 68th net only to be ruled harshly out for foul play. Things started to get a bit heated with some heavy challenges going in but the game finished 1-1.

Extra time on a heavy pitch was a nightmare for all but up stepped 68th centre forward with 2 quick goals leaving the 22nd chasing the game. Willy made his final changes n chased the game 3-1 ht.

2nd period started with 2's pushing but they were struggling with fitness n it just left 68th striker to complete his hat trick with an exquisite free kick 4-1 68thA and that was that.

Good luck to 68th in semi final.

W.Cheung S.Vance A.McCann N.Blair J.Young N.McAneney J.Burrows C.Maitland J.Adams S.Bailie M.Chism

Subs M.Bryans S.Beattie T.McComish

30th January 2016 

BBOB Div 1 

Woodvale Park

 22ndC 3-2 Shore Rd 

It was a winters day in Woodvale park with the snow falling for 22nd c vs Shore rd ym.

To the amazement of both teams and a shock arrival of a referee, the game was set with both teams buzzing. 

22ndc warm up looked like ulster rugby team as they were doing the traditional across and back the pitch which looked like they had buttons sewing to they shirts. This was infact down to the weather so the match started . 

The Game started with 22nd bossing from the start with with everybody pulling their weight, even Stephen Beattie to everyone's amazement. With great play coming mainly down the right from A. McCann to Brownlee to Bailie to which shore rd could not handle. The 2's were all over them.

The 2's defence was immense with the ever-ageing Passmore leading the line and his new found bulldozer in Young to which he uses to his advantage. So with Brownlee and Shaw in the middle of the park, to which management was unsure off, worked very well with Shaw's voice and Brownlee's engine who was bossing the game. The chances started coming thick and fast with the relentless Irvine missing a great chance to which the crowd chanted, he "Irvined" it but his relentlessness  finally paid of when he was slipped through, with his great run he coolly finished into the far corner. This boy just does not stop. 

Shortly after, the 22nd won a throw in deep in shore rd half with 22nds movement causing havoc, the dramaticly improved Beattie found space just outside the box which fell for him to just go ahead and thump in an absolute wonder goal right over the keeper. Half Volley! Unbelievable Jeff!! 

The half fizzled out with 22nd still bossing it great first half for 22nd signs off last season reappearing.  With the team talk it was unusual with Coach Adams giving praise even for Beattie to which the team questioned: "Gaffer, you ok?" Even Shaw got praised for his efforts

Second half began with 22nd still bossing the game with great play, but the tiki-taca football came to a end as fatigue set in. The game got heated with tackles flying in. 22ndc seemed to embrace this new challenge after all they do looked like the ulster rugby team. Yhey shall not be punished they are the enforcers. With 22nd focusing more on legs rather than the ball, they fell asleep letting shore rd back into it with a scramble in the box they stole 1 back. 2-1. Honestly, if the peelers had've seen it they would have been scooped. 

Wake up call that the 22nd needed with the glaring eyes of coldhearted murders that were Young and Passmore, 22nd midfield dared not look back as they love a clean sheet. The game cracked on with the midfields legs, which can only be described as muck running down the legs some say!!!!!! 

With the midfield put back in check, they upped their game driving forward, hitting harder, winning absolutely everything. They got a corner to which Vance finally showed up with a lovely delivered ball to Bailie who soared above everyone with a header to die for. Take a bow son 3-1

With changes made, in stepped Lindores and the entertaining Curie. Some say he wears two left boots just for a laugh.

So positions changed, Irvine left midfield to management mistake as Shore rd pressed their number 8 in the box. He basically was taken out by the roots by Irvine. hop in we going nowhere !!!!!!! Plenty with Irvine fear for his life as Passmore and Young still firing those looks, Irvine looked to the skies praying they missed. No such luck 3-2 

So game restarted with Young and Passmore building a fortress infront of them and Irvine running about with all sorts of tunes flying out his arse

22nd held on to a well deserved victory Final score 3-2 

After match interviews seen the bystander 'Sahin' McFarland, who was injured, asked about his thoughts on what he had seen. His reply was nil as he was being picked off the floor screaming "fuck you west brom". When he finally calmed down, he was asked again "Well Jeff, thought the boys were ve...."  He did not finish as someone cried out "yesssssssssssssssssssss westbrom" which Sahin gave a glorious dance. Some say he's injured!!!!!!!!! Thats all we heard from young McFarland

M.McCann A.McCann Passmore Young McComish Bailie Vance Irvine Brownlee Beattie Shaw

Subs: Cure Lindores

Saturday 5th December 2015 

Bbob Div1 

Threemilewater 

 18th Newtownabbey C 6-2 22ndC

The game kicked off in horrible conditions and straight away 18th were on the front foot and a good move saw their very quick striker score an early goal 1-0 18th. 22nd tried to keep the ball moving it quickly in midfield but conditions would not allow this. Then C.Wynne tried to turn inside hus own box fell and handled the ball... penalty 18th which was cooly dispatched 2-0. Then from a long throw the 18th made it 3-0 bundling the ball in at the back post. The 2's rallied and Maitland hit an unstoppable drive into the roof of the net 3-1. With minutes it was 3-2 some good work down left again found Maitland at the edge of the box to cooly finish 3-2. Just as 2's looked to be getting back in the game Wynne strikes again bringing down their forward in the box another stone wall penalty spotted by the eahle eyed ref. Cooly finished 4-2 18th. Just before the break a great pass saw their striker race clear to make it 5-2 18th. HT

The 2's got a roasting at half time and came out the 2nd half and preformed much better. Bryans and McCann at full back work hard n were always available. Cheung in nets though was forced into 2 or 3 great saves and in terrible conditions his handling was superb. As the game seemed to fade away C.Wynne deflected a shot past the impressive Cheung to make it 6-2 18th. M.Hall entered the fray n had 2 golden opportunities set up by another sub Bailie only to see both efforts go narrowly wide.

W.Cheung A.McCann J.Young C.Wynne M.Bryans R.McFarland C.Maitland G.McDowell G.Gillespie S.Beattie G.Irvine

Subs S.Bailie F.Robinson M.Hall

Saturday, 24th October 2015

BBOB

Woodvale Park

Silent Valley v 22nd 'C'

With the return of the Sir William Adams to manage from the side the conditions where looking awful before the game kicked off. Adams having his team in the pre match circle for the prep talk. With the team given clear instructions to pass and move the boys where raring to go hoping to make it 4 wins in a row.

With Silent Valley winning the toss with the sun in the twos eyes the first half was a game that needed to be played on the ground. It began very scrappy with both teams continually looking for the decisive wonder ball to create an opportunity. A free kick was left to McAneney who in recent weeks was Denied his 'free kick moment' due to Adams heading anything. With the pressure on McAneney's shoulders the strike went into row Z much to the displeasure of the team, And himself. Out of no where Beattie trying an audacious overhead kick just skimming by the post which surely would have won goal of the season there and then. 10 minutes later another free kick fell in a dangerous spot. Off free kick duties it was Beattie who took responsibility. Up he stepped and the goalless score line became 0-1 22nd.

When 22nd starting to the game by trying to get the passing movement flowing but for some reason the game turned into root one. With the 1st half coming to an end Silent Valley earned a free kick from a dangerous positioned. Up stepped their player to bend it round the wall into Matthew Mccanns but unluckily fumbled into the path of the opposition. 1-1 half time blew

.

With a very poor 1st half Sir William Adams gave his speech with the usual home truths among some of usual kind words.

The second half began with glimpse of the passing game that was seen in previous weeks. With 22nd pushing for the win a chance fell to Younger from a cross with narrowly avoided the far post. A fine effort but the Jaap Stam wannabe.

Midfield began to win their battle with the opposition and with much to the surprise of players Adams brought the changes. Ian for Beattie and Steko for Frank the Tank. With the twos pinned back in their own box the ball fell towards the corner flag with a Silent Valley player hounded the ball down but with Andy Mccann giving chase hit a wonder tackle taking man and ball sending it directly up the line into the path of the substitute Ian. Calmly slipping the ball into the path of the ever persistent Matic giving him the opportunity to charge down on goal, round the keeper and sliped the ball in for what turned out to be the winner. 1-2 22nd.

The rest of the game fizzled out with no other real opportunities for either side. Referee calling time on the game. Back to the Cricket club for a bowl of soup and a pint. Job done. The 22nd look to build again for a tough encounter against Westland the week after.

M.McCann F.Robinson A.McCann D.Passmore G.McDowell J.Mckimm J.Young S.Beattie N.McAneney M.Trimmings T.McComish 

Subs:  I.Brown S.Graham O.Verner W.Andrews C.Douglas

Supplementary competition 

22ndC v 2ndB

Woodvale park 

Thursday 21st May

4-4 Draw

Lovely night in woodvale park and some strange positional selections by William Adams. 

The 1st incident saw the 2ndB striker run through clearly offside but the ref using no common sense whatsoever, waited until he clattered the 22nd keeper before blowing up.

The match continued with 22nd on front foot creating a few chances only to be squandered.

2ndB then struck a sucker punch and took the lead with a fine finish. 0-1

Straight away the 22nd were back on terms when M.Douglas squared for Robinson to drive home from 20 yards to level scores after previously missing from 2 yards (go figure). 1-1. 

Then M.Douglas fired the 2's infront with a neat finish from 15 yards 2-1 22nd. 

Then just before half time 2ndB equalised with a cool finish from close range 2-2.

The half finished with C.Chism strutting his stuff in centre midfield  (yes you read correctly).

The 2nd half started with both teams pushing hard. The first break through came when that man again M.Douglas squeezed in from close range to put the 2's infront 3-2. 

Then Cheung left the field with a bad injury to be replaced in goal by Robinson. The 2ndB then equalised with a neat finish from their centre forward. 3-3 

The game being very tight was set alight when the 22nds answer to S.Gerrard (C.Chism) cooly split the 22nd defense to send the 2ndB striker through to make it 4-3 2ndB. 

Enter G.Irvine! He only entered the pitch and was sent through to calmly lob the keeper to equalise for the 22nd 4-4 (nev in doubt). 

The game came to a close and both teams settled for a draw.

W.Cheung D.McCrudden M.Shaw C.Wynne C.Chism L.Nithsdale L.Boobyer L.Robinson M.Douglas   

Subs E.White F.Robinson G.Irvine

22nd C v 2nd B Reserves

Supplementary Cup

25th April 2015

Woodvale Park

In an end of season game with little meaning to either side and positions were consolidated in the league the game was taking seriously by both outfits as there was bragging rights of a local derby. The first 20 minutes went by without much happening as both teams tried to get a grip on the game. The first real sight on goal came to Murdoch as he was slipped through from 20 yards out, he struck a shot just past the post. The next 20 minutes Murdoch again, was slipped through a few other times only for the referee to blow for some dodgy offsides. 40 minutes in Andy McCann broke from midfield slipped in by Willy Adams he flicked the ball over the oncoming defenders head and rifled in a left foot volley 1-0 H-T
The boys came out 2nd half with a spring in there step and took control of the game early on with Murdoch running their defence into the ground and deservedly got his goal with a fine strike from the edge of the area. 2-0

A few changes were made and still the boys kept in control of the game, then F. Robinson popped up with his first goal of the season. 3-0 

Bootle Street pulled one back with a scrappy goal from a corner which should have been dealt with 3-1

The changes in the game took the steam out of it but with five minutes to go up popped D. Bell with a wonder strike from 3 yards out.
4-1 FT

22nd C vs Taughmonagh YM

Nicholl Cup Final

Friday 10th April 2015

Attendance: Packed

The Home of Football “Seaview Stadium”

Conditions were excellent and the atmosphere was electric as both sets of rival supporters taunted each other with some first rate chants e.g. the Adams family, Pink hair and my personal favourite Garys’ in the Taliban. That’s the magic of the cup

The game started with the 22nd on the front foot pressing hard and snapping into tackles. However there was a cost to pay. Fearless midfielder McAneney’s courageous block tackle ended with him taking no further part in the game with a badly twisted knee.

Moments after the 22nd took the lead. There was a mix-up in the Taughmonagh defence, the ball ran free to the bustling McFarland in the centre of the goal who calmly slotted the ball into the empty net. Seaview 1 – 0

They say you’re most vulnerable just after you’ve scored and this is exactly what happened at the other end. A corner was conceded, the cross came in and Taughmonagh headed the ball into the net 1 – 1.

The 22nd took the lead again shortly afterwards when Midfield General Maitland picked the ball up 30.23 yards from the goal and stuck it in to the top left-hand corner of the net – What a worldie finish – the place erupted with raw emotion. 1 – 2

It’s a funny old game. Shortly after words the crowd witnessed a miss that Danny Baker will have on his next “Football Goals and Gaffes” DVD.

Taughmonagh seemed to be rattled and the 22nd nearly capitalised. The ball again fell to the talented Maitland who was at least 2 millimetres out and an empty goal. The talisman somehow managed to put the ball over the bar, over the motorway, over Duncrue and onto the Belfast to Stranraer ferry. He’s got to be hitting the target from there, maybe he caught it too well. This will go down in the same vain as Gerrard’s slip.

Again after this miss Taughmonagh equalised when their man of the match No. 7, dancing around 13-14 players in the box, put the ball past McCann in goal. 2-2

Monuments after Taughmonagh scored again. After a quick breakaway the Taughmonagh forward drilled a shot in to the bottom left-hand corner 2 – 3.

Half time was approaching which is always a bad time to concede, would there be a sting in the tail? – of course.

The 22nd equalized when the industrious team captain Douglas picked the ball up at the edge of the box and rifled it hard and low into the bottom left had corner. 3 – 3 at the break

After the entertaining first half surely the 2nd couldn’t be as good – some may have said it’s a game of two halves. However you would be wrong.

Like the first the 22nd started the better closing down, putting their bodies on the line. The energetic Douglas lead by example with his tireless running and closing down of the opposition.

However midway through fitness levels were starting to show – now Taughmonagh were bossing the game. After making numerous blocks and saves the blameless 22nd goalkeeper McCann again need treatment after having studs raked down the back of his legs which resulted in a corner for Taughmonagh. The corner came in but fell to the Taughmonagh No 7 who connected well on the half-volley to put the ball into the postage stamp. Great goal. 3 – 4

Two more quick fire goals where to follow when firstly after a ball over the 22nd defence the Taughmonagh forward outpaced the defence to chip over the onrushing McCann 3 – 5 . Next the Taughmonagh No7 got his hatrick after he collected the ball outside the area and scored another worldie putting in the only place that McCann could not reach - the top right-hand corner 3 – 6.

There was no giving in by the 22nd and they constantly tried to attack. Just before entering Fergie time, 22nd captain Douglas picked the ball up of the left wing and drove into the box. The Taughmonagh defence didn’t know what to do with him. After a few lollipops, all the defender could do was bring him down and the referee duly awarded the spot kick. Douglas who had given a captains performance and worked his socks off picked himself up and calmly slid the penalty past the Taughmonagh keeper. 4 – 6

Shortly after the referee blew for full-time.

Congratulations to Taughmonagh for winning the Nicholl Cup and to 22nd for their participation in what was a truly epic cup final. It was a great avert for the game

RESULT

22nd C 4 vs 6 Taughmonagh YM

McCann, McCrudden, Passmore, McComish, Wynne, McAneney, Maitland, Gillespie, McFarland, Brown, M.Douglas

SUBS: Burrows, Beattie, Murdoch, Martin, Bunting

22nd C vs Shankill Elim B

Nicholl Cup Semi-Final

14th March 2015

Attendance: 32, a dog, several pigeons and 4 corner flags

City of Belfast Playing Field, Mallusk

Conditions were overcast and slightly windy. 22nd won the toss and decided to play with the wind in the first half.

There are no easy games at this level and with most semi-finals the opening was a tense affair as both teams kept it tight. The first real chance fell to the 22nd as Douglas flicked onto Maitland and the on rushing keeper made a brave save diving at the midfielders feet. Unfortunately the keepers bravery was not rewarded as a shoulder injury prevented him from continuing

Most of the first half chances fell to the 22nd as Douglas, Borrows and the impressive McAneney all wasted good opportunities.

This game needed a goal as the near capacity crowd began to get restless. Midway through the first half Shankill Elim took the lead when the referee give a soft free-kick against McAneney 25 yards out. The Elim midfielder scored directly from the resulting free, putting it over the wall and into the preverbal postage stamp leaving McCann in goal helpless. 0 – 1

As the first half drew to a close the 22nd equalised as club captain Burrows swivelled on a sixpence to lob the keeper with an exquisite finish. Always a bad time to concede just before the break.

1 -1 at the interval.

The second half started like the first as both teams were on edge knowing that Seaview was only 45 minutes away. As it continued the 22nd became the more dominate force with man of the match McAneney lead by example biting into tackles.

Again chances were misses as Douglas squandered opportunities. Just one of those days – he couldn’t hit a cow’s backside with a banjo.

The game was halted for a period when the 22nd veteran Passmore was knocked unconscious after a clash which resulted in a fat lip and later 4 stiches in hospital. However the stalwart refused to come off and played on. Note to all: you do don’t win anything with kids.

Cometh the man cometh the hour the prolific Douglas would not be denied. The forward ran onto a through ball and riffled it past the Elim keeper into the back of the net. You just don’t save those. 2 - 1

It was all 22nd and they should have been out of site playing the sort of tika-taka football you could only dream off. However, there could have been a late sting in the tail. In injury-time Elim threw the kitchen sink at the steadfast 22nd defence. With only seconds remaining an Elim midfielder danced around several challenges and curled a right foot shot that looked destined for the top corner only for McCann to brilliantly stretch and turn it behind. A save worthy of winning any match (maybe he should have held it).

This had to be the final action. Elim sent their keeper forward for one last attempt with all Elim players in the box. The 22nd manager Adams played and master stroke and told Murdoch to stay forward. In came the corner but it was midfield general Maitland who wanted the ball more and calmly played the ball forward to Murdoch who run unchallenged to put the ball into the empty net. (I love when a plan comes together) 3 – 1.

After the match when questioned about his team Adams stated “that every game is a cup final now”

RESULT

22nd C 3 vs 1 Shankill Elim B

M.McCann, McCrudden, Passmore, McComish, Lunn, McAneney, Brown, Burrows, Maitland, Irvine, M.Douglas

SUBS: Beattie, C.Douglas, Bryans, Murdoch, Lindores