Newry Olympic 2s travelled to a very well drilled South Antrim side in Lisburn on Saturday, hoping to continue their winning ways after the bright start to the season.
With a few key players missing from the Newry side, it was always going to be tough, as the two teams were only separated by goal difference for second and third place in the league.
The game was nip and tuck for long periods with neither side able to make a breakthrough in the first half.
Newry grew into the game as time went on, however it was the home side who took the lead just after half time. Despite this, Olympic continued to press and soon equalised through a fantastic solo goal by Alex Irwin, who picked the ball up on the halfway line, rounded several defenders and finished low into the bottom corner from the top of the circle.
Newry then had multiple chances to take the lead, but unfortunately couldn't convert. Despite a string of excellent saves from the Olympic keeper Richy Henning, South Antrim took the lead again in the third quarter.
Newry pushed hard for a second equaliser by moving Lutton up front from defence, but unfortunately couldn't find a goal.
South Antrim scored three quick goals in succession to leave them with a flattering 5-1 win. Despite the result, Newry's commitment and effort couldn't be faulted.
R. Henning, I. Lutton, A. Marks, J. Ross, M. McCullough, D. Barlow, S. Blakely, N. Lutton, J. Lutton, A. Irwin, S. Moffett, G. Moffett, J. Whiteside