Disappointing start to new season for Glebe

Portstewart 2

GLEBE had the honour of hosting the first match in the Irish League this season but it began disappointingly for Rangers as they lost to local rivals Portstewart at the Joey Dunlop Centre on Friday evening.

It was like an old boys’ reunion as no fewer than five of the visitors had previously played for the Glebe and, as so often happens, it was the ex-players who did the damage with strikes from Ricky Dunlop and Owen Moody earning the Ports a deserved three points.

Others renewing old acquaintances were Lee Forgrave, Nigel Turner and Joel Madison who played their part in ensuring a winning start for the Seasiders.

Glebe introduced a number of new and old faces with Marcus Spratt, William Cameron and Gareth Clyde in the starting line-up alongside previous stalwarts Peter Spratt and Johnny Hume whilst Gary McKendry and Lee Magill were on the bench.

It all started so promisingly for Glebe as they took the lead with a seventh minute penalty from David McVicker who made no mistake after Gareth Henry had been impeded by Madison.

Henry then had a fine effort tipped over by Madison. The visitors began to take control and it was no surprise when Dunlop nodded home from Turner’s cross in the 40th minute and thus ensured parity for the Ports at the interval.

Henry was first to threaten in the second half but his free-kick failed to break the deadlock and Portstewart began to take control. William Cameron cleared off the line after Kane had denied Peden before Forgrave’s free-kick flashed just over.

Kane again came to Glebe’s rescue with a fine double save, then Peden’s corner struck the bar. Morrison was working hard and he produced another dangerous right wing cross which Madison dealt with one-handed.

As time ran out the visitors put together a fine, four man move starting with Madison, also involving Forgrave and Boylan before Moody produced a fine finish with a low shot into Kane’s bottom right corner.

* Glebe Rangers would like to thank match sponsor Sammy McClements.

* Stranocum lotto 8,23,24. No winner, next week £200.