Holders Castlewellan forged their way through to the Bobby Dalzell semi finals with an easier than expected victory over old rivals Ballyvea at the Mourne venue on Saturday.
Apart from the first 10 minutes when the home side enjoyed the lion’s share of possession, it was all Castlewellan and the writing was on the wall when Niall Toner put them ahead after 26 minutes sidefooting home following Donal McKibben’s lung bursting run and cross. 3 minutes later it was 2-0 when Tierney headed Trainor’s corner back across goal for John Clarke to blast home. Ballyvea, who were missing Mark Burden up front offered little as an attacking force and although Rory Burns fielded several crosses he was seldom extended.
The second period continued in similar fashion and On 52 minutes Steele and Morgan combined to set up Stevie Trainor who volleyed high into the net. Ballyvea fought back and a long range effort had Burns at full stretch, expertly tipping over. The town introduced Kelly and Jaroskinski to the fray and the latter wasted no time in making his mark with an excellent cross which Daniel Morgan gleefully accepted. The young Polish forward could have scored a couple but was narrowly off target on each occasion.
A satisfactory performance from Castlewellan once they got on top in midfield. They were well served by Sean Russell, Nial Toner, and Donal McKibben.
