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Steel & Sons Cup Quarter Final Draw- Drumaness
Islandmagee have  reached the very dramatic stage of the Steel & Sons Cup- the quarter finals. Luckily they managed to avoid the now favourites Killyleagh and Donegal Celtic. That is not to say that Islandmagee should think Drumaness will be easy because they won't. Although they started off teh season very poorly with some heavy league defeats they have since regained form and started winning games. No easy team gets to this stage of the competition! What's bad is taht we drew them away, so the match on Saturday 25th October will be played on a pitch, where we always find it very difficult to win. Everyone will be looking forward to it, as a victory would mean that we would be into the semis which are held at neutral venues, usually The Oval or Solitude.
Oxford United Stars 1 - 2 Islandmagee
Islandmagee travelled the length of the country, to beyond Londonderry for their Irish Cup Third Round game against Oxford United Stars. The only other time the two clubs have met was three seasons ago, at Wilbourne. On that occasion Islandmagee were 5-2 victors. The large travelling Islandmagee support hoped that we could relive that experience today at the � Olympico� Swilly Stadium.
Graham Henry and David Rollo were back in the side after being on the bench last week against Linfield Swifts. A victory in today�s match would provide a root of opportunity for us to play the Linfield �A� team, if we could progress to Round 5.
The first action of the game came after 20 minutes when Loughlin played a through ball to put Robinson in with only the keeper ahead of him. He ran with the ball and when he was just inside the penalty box, instead of just going on to tap the ball in, in true Robinson style, he noticed the keeper slightly off his line, and lobbed the ball over his head. The ball then hit off the top inside of the post and bounced into the net to put the Islanders ahead.
Robinson had another chance similar to this after half an hour, when from 30 yards he again tried his luck beating the keeper when he lobbed the ball, forcing a great save from the Oxford man.
After 40 minutes it was Loughlin who went one on one with the goalkeeper but he blasted the ball straight at him. Anywhere else and it was a certain goal but it was a missed opportunity, which Islandmagee were to pay for after half time.
Five minutes into the second half, Oxford penetrated the Islandmagee defence of Stephen Hawthorne, David Rollo, Graham Henry, Warren Wilson and Ricky Workman, who had all been demanding throughout, for the first time. From the a free kick, which was whipped in from the right, it was headed down and then volleyed in at the back post, to put the Derry side on level terms.
Islandmagee immediately went to start looking for a winner straight away, and with 67 minutes gone Loughlin�s header from a corner was palmed onto a defender�s leg on the goal line.
Another Ricky Workman corner on 80 minutes was flicked on at the front post by Graham Henry, which was met by the head of Charlie Robinson, firing the ball right across the face of goal for John Loughlin to fire in with his head, past the helpless keeper. Although Oxford tried to get an equaliser in the last 10 minutes Islandmagee defended well and good tackling from David Hawthorne in midfield secured the victory, for Islandmagee to take back over the Foyle Bridge to Islandmagee.
It�s quarter finals for the next two weeks, next Saturday at home to Bangor Amateurs in the Border Cup.
Islandmagee II 2 - 2 Harland & Wolff Sport II
Both sides went into today�s Division 3E top of the table clash at Wilbourne Park, with a 100% record. Harland & Wolff Sport started off better and took the lead after 10 minutes when the striker latched onto a through ball and chipped Gordon Priestly the Island keeper, giving him no chance.
Their lead was not long lived as Islandmagee hit back five minutes later with a stunning free kick from 30 yards by Todd, which was tipped onto the underside of the cross bar by the Harland & Wolff Sport keeper, and then into the net to equalise.
Islandmagee suffered a blow when captain Andy McAllistair had to be substituted because of an injury. The inspired Todd took over his captain�s duties for the rest of the game.
It got worse for the Islanders when they went 2-1 down just before half time, when a young Harland & Wolff Sport forward curled a shot up into the top corner of the Wilbourne box nets.
Islandmagee came out after the break and piled on the pressure in search of an equaliser, with Johnston and Banks missing chances. It didn�t look like Islandmagee were going to get anything as they squandered chance after chance. But with ten minutes to go, John Wilson passed out to the right for a cross to be whipped in and met by McIlwrath who hammered the ball past the Harland & Wolff Sport keeper.
Islandmagee could and should have won the game in the dying minutes but McIlwrath fired his shot just wide of the target. In the end it was a fair result for both teams who both still remain unbeaten and joint top of the league and it also means that Islandmagee still have not lost at the new Wilbourne Park.
County Antrim Shield Draw- LINFIELD
After defeating their reserve team in the Steel Cup Round 4, to get into the County Antrim Shield First Round, Islandmagee have drawn Linfield. The match will be played at Windsor Park on Tuesday 28th October, Kick-off: 7:30pm. This time could be subject to change. It is the first time Islandmagee have played at the National Stadium in 32 years, and that was against the Swifts. Everyone will look forward to this night, surely a landmark in Islandmagee's history.
Islandmagee 8 - 1 Bangor Amateurs
It was back to Wilbourne Park for Islandmagee in the Border Cup Quarter Final, to try and make it 8 wins on the trot and to maintain the unbeaten record on the new pitch. Usually these quarter finals, which have in the past tended to be at Islandmagee are tense affairs which have gone right down to the wire, in some cases penalty shoot-outs, but this time it was to be quite a different story.
Islandmagee had most likely their strongest team of the season available for selection, with only Steven Gilmore out injured.
Both teams started brightly in midfield, creating good passing moves. After 5 minutes Ricky Workman picked up the ball six yards out from goal after a mix up between the Bangor defender and keeper but his shot was blocked by a defender.
With 8 minutes gone a good run from Steven Hawthorne down the right wing caused a header off the line and a good save from the Patterson volley that followed. This period of pressure continued with Bangor having to defend three Islandmagee corners.
Islandmagee suffered a blow after 20 minutes when Ricky Workman had to go off with a serious ligament injury. Glen Clyde, who returned from his injury after 7 weeks out, replaced him.
With just over half an hour gone, John Loughlin picked up the ball in the corner and skinned two defenders simultaneously, leaving them for dead to pass the ball across the goal line for Robinson to steer the ball in and send the Islanders in the lead.
Shortly afterwards, Warren Wilson collected the ball just inside his half, and about 5 yards into the opposing half he launched a right footed thunder bolt which �Whizzed� into the top left hand corner, thus sending the Wilbourne faithful into rapturous applause.
This provoked a halfhearted response from Bangor who broke through, only to be abruptly stopped by the impressive Wilson.
Subsequent to Wilson�s spectacular effort, Patterson adopted the �Anything you can do, I can do better� approach, and he wasn�t too far off, just missing the left hand upright with the �keeper rooted to the spot.
On the stroke of half time the Bangor �keeper was forced to dribble the ball out of his box, being chased by John Loughlin, he made an inappropriate clearance, falling to the feet of Wayne Patterson who had to find his way through a crowded 18 yd box, before slotting the ball into the vacated goal, 3-0 on the blow, Semi final, almost sure.
There was enough time left, however, for Loughlin to scare the �keeper before the break. After swivelling and turning past the centre back, he dribbled the ball just inside the box before dispatching a spinning shot which was about to whistle in off the underside, until the keeper tipped it over.
Shortly after the break a rejuvenated Bangor were at defensive odds yet again, when Steven Hawthorne skinned the right back before placing a neat cross onto Robinson�s forehead and the net bulged again, 4-0 up, it was looking like a rout.
On 54 minutes Loughlin collected the ball on the right hand side before embarking on a mazy run, which resulted in a shot from a narrow angle that went just wide.
Loughlin had set his marker for narrow angled shots, 2 minutes later he collected a sublime chip from Robinson, on the right he entered the 18 yard box before launching an explosive piledriver, that although the �keeper got hands too, couldn�t prevent the Island from scoring.
With 65 minutes gone a great cross field ball to the right by Robinson to Glen Clyde allowed him to cut inside and hammer home his first goal for Islandmagee past the helpless Bangor �keeper, to make the score 6-0.
Before long, Bangor claimed a consolation when a right hand cross was met by their centre forward who duly side footed past the, until then unworried, Williamson.
With 20 minutes left, the foot was taken off the pedal, and Loughlin and Robinson wasted further chances to add to Bangor�s embarrassment.
With 18 minutes left, Loughlin collected the ball in his own half before starting on an impressive solo run which resulting in a tap in for Mr Loughlin, who was going home with at least a brace.
The game quietened until the end when, Loughlin decided to give the Island one last goal to cheer about. Charlie Robinson�s cross was met by the unmarked Loughlin who controlled the ball on his chest before volleying the ball past the �keeper.
The final whistle followed and with an 8-1 victory goal scoring confidence will by high for the Drumaness Mills game. The down point being the Island are likely to be without the injured Workman.
Drumaness 3 - 4 Islandmagee (A.E.T.)
Islandmagee travelled to Drumaness with the hand of history on their shoulder, as they have never won on the new Meadowvale pitch. Arguably Islandmagee�s most important match to date in the Steel and Sons Cup quarter final, they had a tough team to beat and the piece of history to overcome.
 Islandmagee went into the games minus Ricky Workman, who�ll be out for at least 5 weeks, with a ligaments injury. Glen Clyde, who was Workman�s replacement last game, did likewise this week. David McCormick also came into the side, in place of Wayne Patterson.
Islandmagee got off to a somewhat shaky start with Drumaness evidently up for the game. Island�s first �chance� fell to David Hawthorne, who if blessed with a little more pace, would have been through, �one on one� thanks to John Loughlin�s glorious through ball. Seconds later, Drumaness gained their first chance courtesy of Islandmagee�s defence sleeping, but for Williamson�s fine stop, Island would have gone behind. Islandmagee�s shaky start continued as Williamson was forced into action once more, minutes later.
That said, Islandmagee were presented with the best chance of the game, thus far after 15 minutes. Robinson skinned the Mills left back before reacting to Loughlin�s yell of �Back stick�, and sending in a wonderful cross, to which the centre back missed completely, Loughlin collected the cross with a fine first touch, by this time this other centre back had recovered, however Loughlin skinned him before dispatching a shot to which the �keeper pulled off a splendid save. A good opportunity, wasted.
10 minutes from the interval Loughin gained possession 19 yards out, before unleashing a spectacular drive which, even though the �keeper got hands to, couldn�t prevent the start of Loughlin�s aeroplane impressions, which he calls a goal celebration. The remainder of the half was played out with no real chances.
  Islandmagee started the better of the two sides with another long range shot from Loughlin after only 30 seconds of the second half. Gareth McConnell sent in a free kick, from which Charlie Robinson blazed over the bar from a yard out.  He was to make up for this, 5 minutes into the second half. Loughlin started this move by playing a ball out to the left for McCormick, who made a good run down the left to put in a great cross, for Robinson to volley in from close range and put Islandmagee well on their way to the semi final.
Only a minute after this their advantage was reduced when Drumaness were awarded a dubious penalty, even though the Drumaness players and supporters remained silent. Williamson had no chance with the penalty that was converted to put Drumaness back in the game.
It only took 11 minutes for Drumaness to equalise though it could have been less as they put a mass of pressure on the Islandmagee defence. A poor clearance resulted in Gavin McEvoy shooting at Williamson, who saved from close range, only for Ryan O�Hare to tap in the rebound.
With 67 minutes gone, 17 year old Paul Walsh was allowed to turn inside the six yard box and drill the ball low off the inside of the post to Williamson�s left, putting the County Down side ahead and sending their spectators into rapturous cheers.
The cheers were not to be long lived, when on 75 minutes Gareth McConnell unleashed a breathtaking 30 yard free kick which went right into the top corner of the Drumaness net. With the game now level both teams seemed content to try and defend and then break with any opportunity they had.
Islandmagee were saved with 10 minutes to go when Graham Henry put in a last ditch tackle to stop the running Drumaness forward who was almost clean through on goal.
In stoppage time Drumaness had a corner but they put a good chance at the back post over the bar. Although the final minutes were very tense, with the ball being kecked from end to end, both teams held out to take the tie to extra time.
It had effectively been Golden goal for the last 10 minutes it was now two more, ten minute periods of that to decide the match.
4 minutes into the first period substitute, Steven Gilmore crossed from the right to Charlie Robinson, whose shot was blocked by a defender and sent out for a corner. All Islandmagee fans were praying as Gareth McConnell placed the ball in the corner, and God answered when Robinson brought the ball down on the corner of the six yard box, turned and smashed the ball, curling into the top corner of the net, sending Islandmagee into the semi-final and temporary heaven. Robinson�s golden goal was succeeded by a round of crazy celebrations centred around the Wilbourne hero, ending up with all the players on top of him. Of course care had to be taken not to injure the prolific goal scorer ahead of Tuesday night�s big game against Linfield.
Border Cup Semi-Final Draw- KILLYLEAGH
Islandmagee have drawn Killyleagh YC in the semi-final of the Border Cup. The game will be played at Taylors Avenue, Carrick on Thursday 6th November, Kick-off: 7:45pm. Killyleagh are no doubt the strongest team left in the competition and they will be difficult to beat. Them and ourselves are the only two teams left in both the Border and the Steel and Sons Cups, both of which Killyleagh are the holders. Let�s hope we don�t get them in the Steel Cup as well, which is drawn on Monday 27th October.
Linfield 4 - 0 Islandmagee
Islandmagee�s rare run of nine successive wins came to an all too predictable end, although Graham McConnell�s side didn�t let themselves down in this midweek County Antrim Shield tie at Windsor Park, frustrating the mighty Blues until the 50th minute, when former Northern Ireland international Glenn Ferguson finally �spiked� the Wilbourners� brave resistance.
Linfield made five changes to Saturday's starting eleven for tonight's CAS first round game. McAreavey, O'Kane, Douglas, Hunter and King were all in the team, replacing Wall, Charnock, Irons, Picking, and W. Murphy (who was on the bench).
Islandmagee brought in Gilmore for Rollo, while David Hawthorne was on the bench, being replaced by David McCormick. Loughlin dropped back into midfield leaving Robinson alone up front.
Granted the writing had been on the wall, with Chris Morgan, heading Ferguson�s right wing cross, and Stuart King, with a 25-yard rocket, foiled by the woodwork. Keeper Johnny Williamson, too, pulled off notable saves to deprive Ferguson, Morgan and one time Larne full back Steven Douglas. Linfield also had a penalty appeal turned down when Steven Gilmore made contact with Aiden O�Kane, but referee Michael Ross, brother of Peter the Islandmagee chairman, was unimpressed. There were also efforts from Morgan, Ferguson, McCann and O�Kane that all strayed off target, but full credit goes to Williamson for staying on his feet, and making it as difficult as possible for the Bluemen.
Yet it was Island who missed arguably the best chance of the half on 27 minutes when David McCormick, surprisingly playing in a more advanced role than the more rumbustious John Loughlin, really ought to have punished keeper Alan Mannus�s slashed clearance, thumping the ball against the keeper�s legs when he had a large slice of relatively unguarded goal to aim at. A goal then would really have silenced an increasingly disgruntled Windsor faithful.
That, too, was Island�s only real sniff of a goal all night, although that didn�t prevent an over ambitious Loughlin trying his luck from just a few yards inside the Linfield half; a ploy that might have produced greater dividends back at last season�s abode, Castleview Road, with the ball hurtling well wide of the target.
Then just before the break, McCormick, on the turn, failed to get any real power on his shot, after a storming run down the right by Wayne Patterson, nicely released by Loughlin.
The Islanders did manage what everyone thought they could never do by holding Linfield to 0-0 at half time, infuriating the Linfield boss, David Jeffrey, who had to leave the directors box, and take hold of the realm himself, leaving Graham McConnell, the only one managing via a mobile phone link to the dug-out.
It was Linfield, nonetheless, who finally cracked open the Island rearguard just five minutes into the second half; Paul McAreavey playing a free-kick square to Ferguson who made no mistake from just outside the box.
The travelling Wilbourners were now fearing the worse and Williamson made a brilliant fingertip save to turn over a rasping 28 yard drive from Pat McShane, before Linfield doubled their lead on 59 minutes, bundling in an O�Kane cross from only a few yards out.
You would have thought the hard pressed Island defence would have been wise to Ferguson by now, but four minutes later they allowed him far too much platform space to control McAreavey�s cross on his chest, volleying the ball in from around six yards to complete his hat-trick.
Linfield wrapped it up on 73 minutes with a second goal in two games for sweeper Noel Bailie, after a sweeping one-two with substitute Peter Thompson, who admittedly looked a yard or so offside when collecting the ball just inside the Island half.
Island, to their credit, kept plugging away and just before the end, substitute David Rollo headed a Gareth McConnell cross just wide of the target.
It�s back to �domestic� business on Saturday after their night of glory, which was fully enjoyed by all involved with the club, as they return to Wilbourne to face Dunmurry Rec. in the league.
Jeffrey Praise For Island
After the County Antrim Shield defeat against Linfield, manager David Jeffrey told media; "A lot of credit has to go to Islandmagee tonight. They worked very hard, they were well organised, they were well drilled and they fought like tigers. They can certainly go away with their heads held high tonight."
"In the first half we didn't put them under enough pressure. We discussed a few things at half time, and identified a number of areas that we felt we could better in. I was glad the players responded as I knew they would. We got four goals in the second half and certainly we could have had a couple more. But it's four more goals and another clean sheet that will keep Alan Mannus happy. I am happy that we have progressed to the next round."
Dougan Joins Ship
Ex-Islandmagee and more recently Killyleagh striker Davy Dougan has transferred back to Islandmagee. The Scot-man rejoined the Wilbourners after 5 years away, during which he won a Steel & Sons and Border Cup medals for Killyleagh. He scored many important goals for them, which hopefully he can do for us, facing his old side two times in a week. He knows it won't be easy to displace any of the on-form Islandmagee strikers who have scored 12 goals in the last two games.
Islandmagee 1 - 1 Dunmurry Rec.
Just off Windsor Park midweek, Islandmagee returned to Wilbourne Park to try and maintain their unbeaten record on the pitch and to get some league points to lift us off the bottom of the table. Dunmurry Rec. was the opposition to take on the Islandmagee squad, containing the new singing, Davy Dougan.
Dougan did start on the bench, along with a big surprise, Steven Hawthorne, who until today had been the only player to start every game and Glen Clyde who had also been dropped after the Linfield game. This meant the return of David Hawthorne to midfield and David Rollo to centre back, forming a rather different 3-5-2 formation.
The first real chance of the game fell to Dunmurry with 7 minutes gone. Although the Dunmurry forward was blatantly offside, the Islandmagee shouts were ignored and he smacked the ball off the post. After a resulting scramble Steven Gilmore cleared the ball to safety.
19 minutes into the game, Dunmurry were on target again with a powerful shot from close range provoking an excellent reflex save from Williamson.
At the other end Islandmagee had started to turn the game around and put the Dunmurry defence under some pressure. The breakthrough was made on 25 minutes, starting from a deep McCormick cross from the left. Wayne Patterson received the ball and whipped it back across goal for David Hawthorne to head into the bottom right corner of the net, giving the keeper no chance. He moved into joint third in the goal scorers chart increasing his tally to 5, and producing a replica of his early goal against Linfield Swifts.
A Dunmurry cross from the right, three minutes later, was met by a Williamson fist, but the punch didn�t clear the ball. It fell to a Dunmurry forward, who shooting at an open net hit the cross bar.
The rest of the first half was just a battle between Loughlin and the obstreperous woodwork. On 34 minutes Loughlin made a darting run into the box from the left, and shot from a very narrow angle to hit the upright.
Just before half time. Loughlin again, unleashed a 20 yard rocket shot, which reverberated off the underside of the cross bar, and bounced down onto the goal line. Everyone, especially Loughlin, couldn�t believe how unlucky he had been.
After the break the first half an hour was dominated by tough midfield battling by both teams, with no real chances at either end. Tempers were getting high, some particularly bad tackles, were fortunate not to cause a complete brawl.
With 74 minutes gone, David Hawthorne made a good run down the right and played the ball along the ground, into the danger area, to Robinson who scuffed his shot along the goal line. This gave rise to a goalmouth scramble with Loughlin trying desperately to poke the ball in, but Dunmurry got it cleared, to prevent Islandmagee getting that second goal which would surely have killed off the game.
Just 2 minutes later Islandmagee came so close again, which Robinson making great contact with an unconventional bicycle kick that an acrobat would be proud of. The ball went just inches wide of the post.
A double substitution was made with Wilson and McCormick coming off for Steven Hawthorne and Glen Clyde. Perhaps with a view of the semi-final on Thursday, and to change to a flat four at the back and try and hold the 1-0 win.
This was all too good to be true, however, when with only 5 minutes left a Dunmurry shot from distance was spilled into the net by keeper, Williamson, in an unfortunate goalkeeping error.
With game now being tied, Islandmagee had to go for the win, bringing on new singing Dougan for Henry in the dying minutes. He did only have the one chance which came from a Robinson near post flick on from a corner, but his shot at the back post was blocked by a defender.
Although Islandmagee felt much aggrieved they had to make do with a share of the spoils ahead of the big semi-final on Thursday.
Steel & Sons Cup Semi-Final Draw-KILLYLEAGH
Islandmagee have drawn Killyleagh YC for the seocnd semi-final this year, in the Steel and Sons Cup as well as the Border Cup. The game will be played at Taylors Seaview, home of Crusaders on Wednesday 12th November, Kick-off: 7:45pm. Victory in this match would see Islandmagee return to Seaview on Christmas morning to contest the final of this most prestigious competition. Islandmagee need as many people there as possible to cheer them on, so all residents of Islandmagee and beyond are invited to come and support your local team. A supporters' bus will be leaving the Rinkha at 6:30pm and we hope to have as many fans there as possible.
Border Cup Semi-Final Defeat-
Islandmagee 1 - 3 Killyleagh
ISLANDMAGEE will be kicking themselves after failing to convert their first half dominance into goals in this action packed Border Regiment Cup semi final at Taylor�s Avenue.
Island boss Graham McConnell sprung a surprise by keeping faith with the three man central defensive combination that hadn�t looked too convincing against Dunmurry Rec the previous Saturday. Yet it seemed to matter little as it was the Killyleagh defence who saw most of the early action, with Island forging ahead on 12 minutes, when defenders Peter Gilgunn and Andy McMenamin seemed to lose the flight of Johnny Williamson�s long punt, opening the door for the ever alert Charlie Robinson to head the ball over the somewhat hesitant Brian Burgess.
That goal just seemed to be the tonic Island needed and for the rest of the half they really bombarded the Killyleagh rearguard, which had something of a charmed life with three sizzling efforts from John Loughlin zipping just the wrong side of the upright.
If anything, though, Loughlin at times is guilty of trying to �burst the net�, when he should try to �pass� the ball into the corners of the net, a la Lineker or Greaves. Nonetheless, Killyleagh just couldn�t muzzle Loughlin, who also demanded a superb reflex save from Burgess, before seeing another goal bound effort deflected over the bar by the somewhat fortuitous McMenamin. An further storming pot-shot ricocheted off centre half Ross Hayes, while Wayne Patterson must just have been marginally offside, after twin terrors Loughlin and Robinson combined to once again carve open the Killyleagh defence.
Yet Killyleagh should be written off at your peril and they plundered a shock equaliser, drastically against the run of play, just four minutes from the interval; Philip Rogan taking advantage of Williamson�s hesitation, after dashing off his line, flicking the ball over for Stephen Holland to provide a fairly rudimentary finish.
 Island should have had the tie already well done and dusted but playing against the wind, up the Taylor�s Avenue slope, they would have regained the initiative just five minutes after the turnaround had Burgess not produced the save of the match to defy the unlucky Loughlin, following a storming run down the right wing from left back Stephen Hawthorne.
Yet there was a niggling suspicion that Island had shot their bolt and the warning signs were there when Williamson had to arch acrobatically to fingertip over Rogan�s rising drive. Indeed, Killyleagh did get their noses in front on 72 minutes, with Island affording Willie McIlroy far too much time and space to scoop Damean Kelly�s left wing corner high into the roof of the net.
A shell-shocked Island succumbed again just three minutes later when Williamson made a horrendous hash of a harmless looking high ball, dropping it obligingly at Rogan�s feet, and typically the Killyleagh striker showed no sympathy whatsoever.
Rogan, too, missed a further opportunity to really run salt into Island�s wounds, but the damage had already been done with those missed chances in the first half, where the Wilbourners could have been at least four up � and surely that would have been too formidable a hurdle for even a team like Killyleagh!
So the Border Cup final is going to be a Down Derby, and not a East Antrim affair � but at least Island have the chance of some swift revenge, when the sides meet again tonight (Wednesday) at Seaview in the semi final of the Steel and Sons Cup and this time, the Islanders will be able to call on �secret weapon� Davy Dougan, star of Killyleagh�s own Christmas Specials last season.
Desertmartin 2 - 4 Islandmagee
After the disappointing defeat by Killyleagh midweek, Islandmagee set off on another long haul journey to County Londonderry, this time in the Intermediate Cup. If Islandmagee were to play as they did in the first half of Thursday�s semi-final they would be certain to win, and it turned out they played even better, although they did suffer slightly from that same problem of failing to convert chances.
Davy Dougan made his first start, while McCormick and Henry came back in from the bench, while defensive supreme Wilson, Patterson and Gilmore resided to the bench.
Islandmagee started the game against Desertmartin by bombarding their goal, with chances from Robinson, Loughlin, McCormick and Dougan all going begging.
The Islanders finally made the breakthrough on 13 minutes. Steven Hawthorne crossed from the left to Robinson who headed the ball, which went looping over the keeper�s head and into the net.
Only a matter of minutes later, a back pass from Rollo to Williamson, was hammered against the back of the striker and Desertmartin fluked their way back into the match.
Islandmagee fans were amazed at the score line by this stage, as they had so many chances, but the net was finally hit again with 34 minutes gone. David McCormick crossed from the left, inch perfectly to the foot of David Hawthorne, who missed the shot, but Dougan was there to smash the ball into the roof of the net, for his first goal in his second era with the Islanders.
It wasn�t long into the second half when Islandmagee were scoring again. A through ball by Wayne Patterson, who had come for Loughlin in the first half, put Dougan clear though on goal. His shot was parried by the keeper, but Robinson was there to tap in the rebound.
Robinson got his hatrick on 55 minutes from a penalty which Gareth McConnell allowed him to take to get his trio, even forgoing his own chance to make it 20 penalties in a row converted. The penalty was given after Rollo�s header from a corner was handled on the line, just a few minutes after he had another shot blocked.
After another barrage of missed chances, during which David McCormick was exceptional, beating players all over the show and swinging in crosses that strikers can only dream about, Desertmartin grabbed a consolation goal. It was totally against the run of play, about 10 minutes from time. Captain today, Williamson let the ball slip through his hands from a cross, which gave Desertmartin a more than flattering final score line of 2-4.
This could have been considered a good confidence booster ahead of Wednesday night�s rematch against Killyleagh in the Steel and Sons Cup, although some have fears about John Loughlin who went off, although probably just a precaution, with a minor back problem.
Steel and Sons Cup Semi-Final Defeat-
Islandmagee 1 - 1 Killyleagh
Killyleagh win 4-2 on penalties
SO maybe football isn�t quite such a �Beautiful Game� after all! Remember at the start of the season, Islandmagee official Crawford Wilson, in his year as chairman of the County Antrim Steel and Sons Cup committee, said that it really would be a dream come true if he could hand the trophy over to his own team - or even if Islandmagee could get to the final!
It seemed something of a long shot, for remember the last time Islandmagee came anywhere close was away back in the days when Larne were still in the �B Division� and used to virtually monopolise the tournament; the Inver Reds indeed beating the Wilbourners two-nil in the semi final at Seaview on their way to their 1970 triumph.
Yet since those heady days, the gap between �B Division� and Amateur League has certainly narrowed. Island, nonetheless, almost became unstuck at the first hurdle, needing a penalty shoot-out to see off Kilmore Rec. Yet slowly but surely they edged closer and closer, taking the major scalps such as Linfield Swifts and Brantwood along the way. So maybe this was �Fantasy Football� after all!
But to get this close, and dominate the semi final only to tumble out on penalties, especially when they hadn�t lost a shoot out or even missed a spot kick all season, must have been really heartbreaking. One major difference this time, too, was that Island didn�t have the services of their penalty expert, Gareth McConnell, who remember has netted 19 spot kicks in succession � but had to hobble off injured after being on the receiving end of a crunching challenge which might have enticed referee Trevor Moutray to produce red and not yellow just before the break.
Island similarly felt hard done by when late in the second half up at the Shore Road end, they were adamant that Charlie Robinson�s goal bound effort was turned away via defender Mark Murray�s hand.
Island certainly had the better of a scoreless first half, with twin terrors John Loughlin and Charlie Robinson again proving a real headache for Killyleagh�s aging defence, Robinson, too, was unlucky on 35 minutes, when he smashed one against the left hand post, while, two minutes later, three Island players just failed to get on the end of Loughlin�s tempting left wing cross-shot, with the goal yawning invitingly in front of them.
Perhaps the omens weren�t good when Island lost penalty practitioner McConnell, but then maybe it just didn�t matter as they forged ahead on 56 minutes; David Hawthorne bundling the ball home after keeper Brian Burgess had spilled David McCormick�s harmless enough looking free kick.
Killyleagh, however, bounced back just six minutes later when Willie McIlroy glanced home Damean Kelly�s long throw in.
Thereafter, though, it was all Islandmagee, with Burgess producing the save of the match by brilliantly finger tipping over a rising drive from Robinson that looked bound for the top left hand corner of the net, only for referee Moutray to inexplicably award Killyleagh a goal kick.
From then on in, too, the Killyleagh defence held something of a charmed life, with shots from Robinson, Loughlin, McCormick and the Hawthorne brothers, Steven and David either fizzing wide or being scrambled clear � and then there was that incident when Murray seemed to have a hand in turning away another Robinson effort.
Killyleagh were literally hanging on through the skin of their teeth but If anything, the full time whistle came just at the wrong time for Graham McConnell�s side, as the County Down side benefited from the short breather, with McIlroy and Crawford both having reasonable stabs at what turned out to be an elusive �golden goal�.
Surprisingly McConnell didn�t unleash what could have been his secret weapon Davy Dougan until the very last minute of extra time, with a view obviously to taking one of the penalties. Granted the front two of Robinson and Loughlin were doing everything Graham could have asked  � apart from score � but Loughlin has also played deeper of late, and Dougan remember had a leading role in Killyleagh�s own �Christmas story� last season. Even then just on the pitch for the dying seconds, the Scotsman almost made his mark, seeing a close range effort deflected wide for a corner.
And so into the shoot out, where Islandmagee, yet to miss a penalty this season, were reasonably optimistic, with already two shoot-out victories under their belts this season, that Round One success at Kilmore Rec plus an Irish Cup victory over Dungiven at Wilbourne Park.
Nonetheless, generally the record of East Antrim teams in shoot-outs just when it matters is anything but good. Memories of the previous night�s CIS Cup final were still fresh in some supporters minds � and some older fans could remember Larne losing an Irish Cup semi final on penalties, to Ballymena, on the very same ground, away back in 1974! Moreover Killyleagh had accounted for both Larne Tech and Wellington Rec on penalties in recent seasons.
Indeed memories were also still fresh of John Loughlin getting the Tech off to a bad start in that Clarence Cup semi final of 2001, hoisting his penalty over the bar. This time, unusually, he elected to place it, but unfortunately too close to Burgess� left hand; the keeper pulling off a fairly comfortably save, and thus erasing any advantage Island might have had with Kelly blasting Killyleagh�s first spot kick against the angle of bar and post.
Typically, having missed their first penalty of the season, Island went on to make it two in a row � but credit here to Burgess for an excellent save to deny Warren Wilson.
With Killyleagh having converted their second and third kicks, the pressure was therefore on young Wayne Patterson, who nonetheless responded with one of the best penalties of the night.
However, with Dee Heron�s side scoring their fourth, it was �match point Killyleagh�, until Robinson stepped up to keep Island in the competition.
Unfortunately, not for long, though, as, despite Johnny Williamson�s valiant attempt, McIlroy squeezed in Killyleagh�s fifth, to thereby win the shoot-out four-two, and progress through to yet another Steel and Sons final It was Dougan incidentally who was due to take Island�s last spot kick.
Islandmagee 5 - 4 Newington YC
Islandmagee aimed to bounce back from the past week which was riddled with disappointments. Manager McConnell made three changes to Wednesdays Seaview clash, with McCormick, McConnell and Clyde missing, with Dougan, Henry and Patterson replacing the trio. Second team stars Gowdy and Bothwell made the first team for the first team and made the bench for the Irish Cup Round 3a tie against Newington YC.
Islandmagee made the better start and the first of nine goals came after 3 mins, when a great cross from the right by John Loughlin beat three defenders to allow Wayne Patterson to slide the ball into the net.
It wasn�t long however before the next goal came, when against the run of play on 6 minutes, Newington capitalised on a defensive lapse and equalised.
The Wilbourne crowd were thrown into disbelief when after a quarter of an hour they witnessed a fluke free kick from the left squezzed in off the post.
The action unsurprisingly calmed down and the Island went in at the break 2-1 down.
Graham McConnell and Martin Bird had evidently given an inspirational tem talk and a rejuvenated Island appeared in the second half.
David Dougan single handily dragged the Island into a 3-2 lead through identical goals. Despite the Newington manager desperately stressing not to play the off side trap, Dougan twice beat the offside trap to run angled at goal and blast the ball past the NYC �keeper. Between the two Dougan goals Newington had a man sent off for foul play and in the process of trying to save Dougan�s second, the goalkeeper injured himself.
Islands joy was short lived when on 87 minutes a corner from Newington made it�s way to the far post of the crowded 18 yard box, and the Newtington player headed in to send the travellers wild. So it was to be a 30 minute period of extra time.
Mere seconds into the first period Glen Clyde launched a fierce ball into the box which David Hawthorne attacked to force the marker to head into his own net.
Island took the foot off the pedal for the remainder of extra time, and with little chances for either side, it came as a shock to everyone when Newington managed to get through on goal, and despite a solid hand form the now �safe hands� again Johnny Williamson, the ball bounced into the net.
Appearing to now be destined for the nightmare scenario of penalty kicks, Island were deflated, apart from David Hawthorne, and the goalless Robinson, so Island were relieved when a solo run from Hawthorne and a fine end ball forced another own goal, and just in the nick of time!
Surely Not again!
.....Killyleagh-Irish Cup Round 4
After our two extremely unlucky semi-final defeats by Killyleagh we have only gone and drawn them again in the Irish Cup. If we play like we did in either of the other two matches we will beat them, if that is for some reason they don't have their constant good luck! The match will be played at The Killyleagh Showgrounds on Saturday 6th December. Before that however we face another trip to Londonderry County in the Intermediate to play Strabane on Saturday 29th November.
Islandmagee 5 - 1 Kilmore Rec.
It was back to Wilbourne Park for its second league game of the season and Islandmagee second league game in more than 2 months. It was imperative that Islandmagee collected 2 points today to lift themselves away clear from the bottom of the table.
Everyone was available for selection today, but McConnell decided to stick with the three upfront system. David McCormick came straight in to the starting eleven, McConnell came onto the bench, while Henry and Gilmore dropped to the bench.
The first action of the game came 15 minutes in, when Dougan played a one-two with Robinson, and then to Loughlin who was slayed down inside the box. Referee, David Redfearn, didn�t oblige to the Islandmagee calls.
With 28 minutes gone, Warren Wilson did well to block a Kilmore shot on the Islandmagee goal line. Two minutes later Islandmagee broke, John Loughlin hit a very powerful shot from a narrow angle, which skimmed off the near post and into the net.
He nearly scored a second, 5 minutes later, when he rounded the keeper, but lost his balance and put the shot wide of an open goal.
Kilmore equalised with a penalty before half time, after Davy Rollo had unfortunately tripped the striker inside the area.

It was level at half time, but not long into the second half this was soon to change. Firstly, Kilmore went down to ten men, their striker getting sent off for a pointless offence. Just after, Dougan had an attempt at lobbing the keeper, but it went just over.
With 50 minutes gone Islandmagee went ahead when Dougan crossed from the right with the outside of his boot, and Robinson was there at the back post to head home.
7 minutes later Islandmagee went further ahead, when Patterson shot along the ground from 30 yards and beat the Kilmore keeper.
In the next few minutes the Kilmore keeper pulled off brilliant saves from a David Hawthorne volley and a great attempt from McCormick after an impressive solo run.
He was however beaten on 70 minutes by his own defender who hit the ball into his own net after Loughlin hammered the ball across goal.
By this stage Islandmagee were strolling and they crowned off a great performance, 2 minutes from time, when Patterson played the ball back across to Charlie Robinson who smashed in from 6 yards. Robinson missed the chance to make it another hatrick when he skinned the defence only to shoot wide.
It was a great performance all round by the Island, they received their much needed 2 points and maintained their own unbeaten home record ahead of next weeks journey to Strabane.
Killyleagh 3 - 2 Islandmagee
Islandmagee travelled after a break last week, to the Killyleagh Showgrounds, to seek revenge for the two semi-final defeats. This time a place in the Nationwide Irish Cup Fifth Round was at stake as well as the intense rivalry that now surrounds the two clubs.
Islandmagee were at an immediate disadvantage with goalkeeper, Johnny Williamson absent, Gordon Priestly made his first team debut. Apart from that the only other absentees were ex-Killyleagh man Davy Dougan and the still injured Ricky Workman.
They got off to a bad start when Killyleagh went ahead after 4 minutes. A header at the back post hit off the inside of the upright and a Killyleagh striker was there to smash the ball past Priestly.
Things went form bad to worse 10 minutes later when Killyleagh converted another free header, which Priestly got a hand to, but he couldn�t keep it out, and the County Down side went two ahead. The Killyleagh supporters thought they had the game wrapped up, but they were forced to hold their breath when their defender handled the ball inside the box. The referee didn�t oblige to the Islandmagee appeals.
Their cheers were silenced when on 26 minutes, David McCormick scored straight from a free kick out wide on the right. The ball went sailing through the packed goal area without touching anybody.
Islandmagee were now looking confident, never so much so as when Warren Wilson picked up the ball in his own penalty area and dribbled it, skinning practically the whole Killyleagh team, to the other end of the pitch. He passed to John Loughlin who played a great ball across goal to Gareth McConnell who hammered the ball into the net, just on the stroke of half time.

Islandmagee came out after the break, a rejuvenated side, immediately putting the Killyleagh defence under pressure. With 54 minutes gone some great build up play, ended up with Loughlin getting the ball out on the right. He fired in a cross, but Charlie Robinson, who had been having a quiet game by his standards, could not connect when he came sliding in at the back post.
By this stage Islandmagee were piling on the pressure, and nobody in the ground could believe they weren�t leading by at least 3 goals (d�j� vu or what!). Rollo had a great chance when he hit a powerful volley from 6 yards, but it was straight at keeper, Burgess.
On 75 minutes, totally against the run of play, actually it was Killyleagh�s first attack of the half, they played a through ball, which broke the offside trap, and Sullivan slipped the ball under the oncoming Priestly.
With Killyleagh taking the lead in this yet again unbelievable fashion, Islandmagee were deflated and even the introduction of Wayne Patterson from the bench couldn�t get the equaliser. We were forced to bear the brunt of the jeers again, and although manager Dee Herron on BBC Radio Ulster said �Islandmagee are a very tough team, and they have at least 4 or 5 quality players.� We will be relishing the opportunity to get some revenge when they come to Wilbourne Park.
Islandmagee II 5 - 1 4th Newtownabbey OB
Islandmagee started the better team and took the lead after 15mins when Baxter went on a run down the wing, beat the man and hit a shot at the 4th Newtownabbey keeper who needlessly parried to Banks who made no mistake from close range. Islandmagee kept coming forward in search of a second and Coulter and  Love were both denied. Islandmagee missed great chances and against the run of play 4th Newtownabbey went on a counter attack and won a corner, which they crossed in and Islandmagee left men free and failed to clear, and the ball rolled into the Islandmagee net. Islandmagee put pressure on in search of a goal before half time.  A great run by Love, which unhinged the Newtownabbey defence, and he delivered a great cross, which Baxter headed in at the back post.
Half time 2-1
Islandmagee started the second half as they did the first and when Coulter hit a corner with 5mins of the second half gone the keeper made a howler and palmed it into his own net. Newtownabbey fell apart and soon Islandmagee were four up as Love made a run and no one closed him down and he hammered a shot form 25 yards, which left the keeper rooted to the spot. Johnston came on as a sub for the Island and looked sharp and slotted home the through ball from Banks. Johnston should have had a second minutes later but blazed over from all of two yards out. In the end it was an easy three points for the Island.
Strabane 2 - 1 Islandmagee
It was a very dismal day for Islandmagee to travel the furthest distance of the campaign to Strabane in the Intermediate Cup 2nd Round.
Islandmagee had 5 players missing; Robinson, Gilmore, Clyde, Magill and Workman. Johnny Williamson came back into nets, while second team striker, Johnny Love came in to join Loughlin up front. It turned out he would be the only player to score for the Wilbourners.
The first clear-cut chance came on 35 minutes and it fell to Strabane, who had been the better team so far, testing Williamson on a few occasions, unlike the Strabane keeper who hadn�t yet touched the ball. Strabane took their chance well, after a tackle from Warren Wilson bounced luckily to their striker who hit the ball across Williamson to put the Mourne-siders ahead.
Shortly afterwards they missed a great opportunity to extend their league, when they went through two on one with Williamson. The striker to his embarrassment squandered the chance wide of the post.
On the stroke of half time Islandmagee first tested the Strabane keeper, when Johnny Love forced a good save from six yards out, after Loughlin had set him up.

Islandmagee started the second half with a different approach, as they began to pile the pressure on the Strabane defence looking for the equaliser. Even various goalmouth scrambles, numerous corners and chances for Patterson, McConnell and Love couldn�t beat the keeper.
That was until when on 85 minutes, John Loughlin jumped to challenge the keeper, during a corner. He forced him to drop the ball and it was scuffed in by Johnny Love, causing much displeasure in the Strabane camp and a lot of relief for Islandmagee.
Strabane at first seemed deflated, but perhaps this fooled the Islandmagee players just as it fooled me, because in the 89th minute they broke through the untidy Islandmagee defence to go ahead again, and send all the fans that packed into �McIlroy�s Meadow� into jubilation. To the best of their efforts even 5 corners and 7 minutes of stoppage time couldn�t get Islandmagee an equaliser as Strabane defended with their backs to the wall, and in a no-nonsense attitude tried to clear everything up field.
Temple Rangers 0 - 2 Islandmagee
Islandmagee traveled to Ballynahinch with a relatively strong side, which would attempt to beat 2B side, Temple Rangers. At a pitch, which was surrounded by hockey and parks, Islandmagee started brightly. From the kick off, John Loughlin chased a pass towards their right back, who, clearly rattled by Loughlin sprinting at him slipped and allowed Loughlin possession. Unfortunately, Charlie Robinson couldn�t quite get in the 6-yard box quick enough to meet Loughlin�s great centre. However, it wouldn�t take long for Island to take authority of the game. A period of sustained pressure, resulting in consecutive corners, before McCormick sent in a delightful cross, which Davy Rollo smashed in off the underside of the crossbar from 3 yards out, a goal that was cheered by Island�s small away support. Rollo�s last goal, I believe, came against Dundonald, in a 5-2 victory, 625 days ago!
Islandmagee continued to press for a second goal for the rest of the half, Glen Clyde constantly causing their defence lots of problems, finding space, and making well-timed runs.
Pressure at the beginning of the second half resulted in a penalty for Islandmagee, in which Gareth McConnell could convert to score 20 consecutive kicks; however, disappointingly he missed as a result of a great save from the �keeper.
Although McConnell must have been disheartened, Island continued their quest for a safeguard second goal, and it came on the 78th minute when McCormick, who had been performing well all day, set the ball up for Loughlin who unleashed a controlled effort into the far corner, the goalkeeper didn�t move.
This victory set up a second round encounter away to Division 1A outfit, and local rivals Barn United. The fixture may be on 14th February - St Valentine's Day, but there is certainly no love lost between these two sides.
Steel and Sons Cup Final
The final of the competition, which we were one kick of a ball away from being in, took place without us, as usual on Christmas morning. The match turned out to be a fairly one sided affair with Donegal Celtic coming out to beat Killyeagh by three goals to nil. There was a hint of Islandmagee representation as club secretary and Chairman of the Steel and Sons Cup Committee, Crawford Wilson was presenting the prestigious trophy to Donegal Celtic.
Killyleagh did find consolation in the Border Cup, which they also beat Islandmagee in the semi-final of, as they beat Downpatrick Hospitals 2-1 on Saturday 27th December, at Wilgar Park in front of what might have been a record attendance.
Larne Gazette Team of the Year So Far
At Islandmagee have two players featuring in the Larne Gazette's local football team of the year-so far. It was released on Wednesday 7th January to show Charlie Robinson as the 'Target Man' and Steven Hawthorne as 'Left Back'. Islandmagee had four other players listed as reserves, with John Loughlin coming runner-up to Charlie Robinson, in the Target Man category. The full team is as follows:

GOALKEEPER- TONY KING (4TH NEWTOWNABBEY OLD BOYS)
Runner up- Johnny Williamson (Islandmagee)

RIGHT BACK- STEVEN HAWTHORNE (ISLANDMAGEE)
Runner up- Gary Brennan (LTOB)

LEFT BACK- RAB HUNTER (LTOB)
Runner up- Colin Doyle (Nortel)

CENTRE HALF- EDDIE ADAMS (LTOB)
Runner up- Joe Crawford (Wellington Rec.)

SWEEPER- JODIE HILL (LTOB)
Runner up- Warren Wilson (Islandmagee)

RIGHT MIDFIELD- BERTIE FULTON (LTOB)
Runner up- Simon Humphries (Wellington Rec.)

LEFT MIDFIELD- ANDY WAIDE (BARN UNITED)
Runner up- ?

CENTRAL MIDFIELD (PLAYMAKER)- DAVID McCRAE (RATHFERN)
Runner up- Eamon Regan (LTOB)

CENTRAL MIDFIELD (TACKLER)- GARY McKEE (BARN UNITED)
Runner up- Gareth McConnell (Islandmagee)

STRIKER (TARGET MAN)- CHARLIE ROBINSON (ISLANDMAGEE)
Runner up- John Loughlin (Islandmagee)

STRIKER (POACHER)- BRIAN GREER (18TH NEWTOWNABBEY OB)
Runner up- Frankie Small (UUJ)
Dunmurry Rec. 2 - 0 Islandmagee
Islandmagee travelled to Ashley Park, Dunmurry for a vitally important league match with Dunmurry Rec. The Hawthorne twins and Ricky Workman were watching the game with the fans while Darryn Magill returned to the starting line up, and the bench was Dougan, Gowdy and Love.
There was an even start to the match with a lot of midfield possession from both teams, resulting in an early booking for Magill. The first time anyone came close to scoring was on half an hour when a long distance lob from Robinson had the Dunmurry keeper scrambling back to his line, but it went just over the bar. Before the end of the half it was Dunmurry who missed opportunities to go in leading at the break, putting a volley from close range over the bar, and a low shot deflected off Rollo�s leg went just wide of the post.
At the beginning of the second half Islandmagee came into the game more and peppered the Dunmurry goal area, coming close from three corners. At this point it was a blow for Magill to receive his second yellow card for a nasty tackle.
Three more corners in a row, resulted in Loughlin, who was today sporting a new hair band, forcing a good save from the keeper, and then in the next his near post flick on resulted in Rollo receiving the ball only to be upended by a defender.
Gareth McConnell was brave to step up after last week�s miss following 19 consecutive scores, but the bad luck was to continue when the keeper saved the penalty, pushing it onto the post.
This was a major turning point in the game, as Dunmurry Rec. now started to pressurise Islandmagee, with Johnny Williamson saving, on a few occasions one on ones with strikers. Dunmurry Rec. made the breakthrough with a scrappy goal from a corner on 69 minutes, and they added to their total on 83 minutes.
Islandmagee continued to fight with a man less, and Dougan came close a few times, making a fool out of a few defenders.
In the end however perhaps Johnny Williamson was to thank for keeping the score as it was.
Islandmagee will be looking for a much more convincing performance next week against Dunmurry YM at home.
Islandmagee 6 - 1 Dunmurry YM
Islandmagee returned to Wilbourne Park for the first time in 2004 still defending their unbeaten record at home. This time it was against �basement boys� Dunmurry YM, in what Islandmagee knew was a must win game, so that they could begin their ascent out of the drop zone and into safety. They went into the game quietly confident, perhaps with their strongest squad of the season, although knowing that Dunmurry YM would certainly be no pushover.
New signing, Gareth Murray, came into midfield, while the Hawthorne twins and Workman all returned to the fourteen. Patterson dropped to the bench to join David Hawthorne and Ricky Workman.
The referee insisting on a change of sock colour and then a delayed arrival by Dunmurry caused the kick-off to be delayed by twenty minutes, to the annoyance of the fans who had travelled from Londonderry who would then be going on to Larne for Institute�s Irish Cup match.
Islandmagee started very well forcing Dunmurry to concede corners from an early stage. Only three minutes were on the clock when the ball was cleared from a corner, falling to David McCormick on the edge of the box, who sweetly struck the ball past the keeper to put Islandmagee ahead. After assessing the video replay it became apparent that Robinson had got the final touch that diverted the ball past the keeper, so the goal was his.
One minute later and McCormick was at it again, this time after he capitalised on a mix-up between keeper and defender, to slot the ball into the net.
It now looked as though Islandmagee were going to stroll the rest of the game, but doubts were raised when on 20 minutes, some slack defending saw Dunmurry pull one back. Although admittedly he did appear to be in an offside position when he received the ball, but the striker finished well, giving Williamson no chance.
Five minutes later and Islandmagee extended their lead when Loughlin made a brilliant solo run down the left and cut inside to slot the ball under the keeper for his first goal of the match.
That taste of action was a spark in Loughlin�s engine as he chased the ball out on the corner of the penalty box and then struck delightfully on the half volley, beating the keeper on his far post. Even the celebration that followed was nothing on the exquisite finish.
So it was 4-1 when the teams went in at the break and the game was in the bag. There was a period at the beginning of the second half, when Island had countless opportunities to add to the total, Charlie Robinson especially, was so unlucky not to add to his tally, and David McCormick who had been magnificent also coming close.
There was then a triple substitution seeing David Hawthorne, Wayne Patterson and Ricky Workman coming on for Graham Henry, Gareth McConnell and Gareth Murray. Rick Workman made his first appearance since Islandmagee thumped Bangor Amateurs 8-1, three months ago, and perhaps this was an omen as no sooner was he on the field before, David Hawthorne got on the end of Glen Clyde�s free-kick to head in Islandmagee�s fifth.
A good day was topped off when Loughlin secured his hatrick. An excellent through ball from Robinson put Loughlin through and he hammered the ball past the keeper to make the final score 6-1.
Next week Islandmagee travel to Nortel in another important league match.
Islandmagee II 1 - 0 Sainfield II
Islandmagee came to this game hoping to keep their unbeaten record in tact but Islandmagee certainly had to work for it to keep this record going at home to Saintfield II.

Islandmagee started the brighter of the two sides with Saintfield stuck in their own half due to the strong wind in their faces. The first real chance of the match fell to Lee Johnson who just missed from 5 yards out.  The rest of the half was mostly Islandmagee attacking but couldn't break down the Saintfield defence.

It was Islandmagee who once again started the quicker of the two sides with Islandmagee handed a penalty. Darren Todd stood up to hit the penalty and he missed but the referee ordered the penalty to be taken again. It was once again Darren Todd who stood up to hit it and once again he missed. After that Islandmagee went on full attack trying to keep this record alive. Another chance fell to Darren Todd who unleashed a great shot from 20 yards but the Saintfield keeper just tipped it over. It was from a corner, which Islandmagee broke the deadlock with a powerful header from John Wilson which rifled into the top corner.

From then on Islandmagee sat back begging for the final whistle to come soon and when it did the Islandmagee players blew a sigh of relief. So Islandmagee keep marching on, on their quest to win the league.

 Reporter: Darren Kane
Nortel 2 - 3 Islandmagee
NORTEL�S season continues to slither from one disappointment to another as they tumbled to their seventh league defeat of the season, losing at the Factory Grounds to East Antrim rivals Islandmagee, who thereby finally climb out of that dreaded drop zone.
Granted it looked close in the end, but in reality there was more between the teams than the final outcome suggests and certainly Nortel manager Ricky Beggs will surely have some rebuilding to do during the summer months. Before then, however, the Factory side will have to raise the standard, just to ensure they don�t get sucked into the relegation dogfight � and at least this Saturday, they have the chance to get the Islandmagee result out of their system, when they travel to bottom club Dunmurry Young Men.
Admittedly, Nortel haven�t been helped by striker Gary Murray breaking his leg, and then seeing a possible replacement Stuarty Owens leave for Dundela. On Saturday, Nortel�s lack of menace up front was all too clear, with island keeper Johnny Williamson not even tested in what turned out to be a decidedly one-sided and surprisingly scoreless first half.
Island�s Wayne Patterson, for instance, ought to have done much better on 22 minutes when, all alone just inside the box, he sliced the ball well wide of the target.
Wayne had played Irish League football last season with Carrick Rangers, but, after a fairly ordinary uneventful opening quarter, it was ex Larne midfielder Gareth Murray who was showing the real class, starting to take command in that crucial middle third.
Nortel, too, rode their luck on the half hour, when, with Justin McLean lying flat out injured just inside the Islandmagee half, anticipating the whistle that never came, they almost let in Charlie Robinson, but keeper Ian Haveron was alive to the danger, storming off his line and forcing the striker wide, with Colin Doyle hovering back to clear the loose ball.
Two minutes later, Graeme Henry shot straight at Haveron when well placed, following a right wing run by Murray.
As always, John Loughlin was proving hard to muzzle, but all too often he drifted into areas where he couldn�t really hurt the home defence, as epitomised in the 35th minute when he made inroads down the right flank, crossing for Patterson, who couldn�t quite dig out a shot. Loughlin, lurking in Patterson�s position, would surely have at least demanded some sort of response out of Haveron.
That Nortel goalmouth was beginning to lead something of a charmed life as seconds later Murray drilled a left foot shot against Haveron�s right hand post, with Haveron well beaten; Ricky Workman having swung over the free kick, following Ryan Beattie�s foul on Robinson.
Murray and Loughlin were now practically running the show and it was Loughlin who almost profited from Murray�s charge through three rather half-hearted challenges, hammering the ball just wide of the upright.
The Islandmagee onslaught continued and on 41 minutes the bustling Loughlin released Gareth McConnell in the inside left channel, but again Haveron was alert to the danger, blocking this time with his feet.
Haveron did even better two minutes into injury time, acrobatically finger-tipping Robinson�s rising drive over the bar.
Considering that Nortel couldn�t even muster up a single shot on target, the psychological advantage was possibly with the home side at the interval, with the travelling wilbourners feeling that they had missed their chance!
Yet the second half began on the very same lines, with Haveron diving bravely at Loughlin�s feet, as Patterson whipped in the cross.
While that Nortel rearguard had withstood that first half barrage, they occasionally ran the risk of trying to play too much football at the back instead of merely clearing their lines. That�s exactly what happened, too, on 51 minutes when Beattie, accepting Haveron�s short throw out, was dispossessed by Patterson, who steadied himself, calmly slotting the ball between the despairing keeper and the right hand post.
No one could argue that Islandmagee didn�t deserve their lead, but at least the goal did trigger an overdue response from Nortel, with ex Islander Willie Clawson blazing one just over the bar, with Williamson beaten.
That apart, though, it was still Island who looked the more likely and on the hour Haveron pulled off the save of the match, with a brilliant reflex stoppage to frustrate Murray
Nortel also seemed slow in learning their lesson, and five minutes later Loughlin almost made Beattie pay for more over-elaboration at the back.
On 66 minutes, Islandmagee�s Kasey Keller lookalike Johnny Williamson finally got his knees dirty, hurling himself to his right to cling onto an opportunist drive from Joe McRoberts.
Two minutes later, Ricky Beggs made a triple substitution but the new boys had scarcely touched the ball before Island doubled that lead; Loughlin heading in McConnell�s perfectly weighted near post corner. Indeed, Loughlin, already on one yellow card, almost got himself sent off by immediately tearing straight over the Nortel bench � not, as the referee thought, to remonstrate with the Nortel management - but to where the reporter just happened to be standing and to insist that he was �a goalscoring machine!�
Goodness knows what might have happened then if a more spectacular effort from Loughlin minutes later hadn�t curled just the wrong side of the bar!
Island, too, could have wrapped it up when Robinson, looking offside, was allowed to proceed but drove the ball wide of the target.
Meanwhile, what better moments Nortel had invariably stemmed from Joe McRoberts, who on 75 minutes gave warning that the rest of the match might just not be the formality everyone thought it was, by smashing a free-kick round the visitors wall. Island manager Graham McConnell, though, might have some questions to ask about Williamson�s positioning.
Perhaps had Nortel time to get some sort of momentum going, considering the amount of chances Island had missed, all might not have been lost, but the pendulum again turned the visitors� way just two minutes later with a goal that brought howls of protest from the home contingent, as most people, except referee Mr Malcolm, thought that Robinson jumped all over keeper Haveron in turning in another measured free-kick from McConnell.
Even then, McRoberts almost cancelled it out, swirling a right foot effort just wide.
McRoberts, nonetheless, wasn�t denied, grabbing his second a minute into injury time, glancing a Willie Clawson free-kick over the head of Williamson. It seemed to be a mere token, although Mr Malcolm proceeded in playing another four minutes of stoppage time, with Island in the end relieved to hear the final whistle.
The Man of the Match �award� goes to the player who told the reporter at the end that he �was by far the best player on the pitch, but I�ll probably read something different when I buy the paper!� Well, not this time, for John Loughlin was a constant handful all afternoon � our only gripe at times is his tendency to drift wide or deep, into positions less troublesome for defenders.
Best for Nortel, meanwhile, were McRoberts and Haveron.

Reporter: Alan Hall
Islandmagee 1 - 4 Drumaness
Islandmagee's unbeaten record on their new playing surface at Wilbourne Park was broken today, in the Northern Amateur League Premier Division match against Drumaness. With the very wet weather Wilbourne Park, was one of the only pitches in the country being played on, having said that there was absolutely no doubt over whether it was playable or not.
Into the squad came McCormick and Dougan, McCormick going straight in, with Robinson joining Dougan and Gilmore on the bench, because of a niggling injury.
Things started off very badly from Islandmagee with Warren Wilson having to clear the ball off the line in the first minute, to save Islandmagee conceding at an embarrassingly early stage.
They did, however concede with only 7 minutes gone, when a fabulous strike from 20 yards, gave Williamson no chance.
One minute later and things went from bad to worse for the Islanders, when the Drumaness striker broke the offside trap and powered the ball past Williamson, who got a hand to it, but couldn�t keep it out.
With twenty minutes gone, Graham McConnell realised that a change was necessary, so he brought on Charlie Robinson for defensive midfielder, Graham Henry.
At this point we may have expected Islandmagee to mount a comeback, but it wasn�t to be. In fact it was quite the opposite, as a Drumaness free kick was pushed into the top corner by Williamson to put Drumaness 3-0 up.
Robinson was shoved in the box, with 36 minutes gone, and the referee awarded Islandmagee a penalty. All three Irish League referees who were in attendance agreed that it was definitely a foul, although the Drumaness players thought differently. Loughlin stepped up to fire the penalty in and it looked like Islandmagee had a way back into the game.
The Islandmagee fans� cheers were short lived when Drumaness went straight down the field, through the sleeping Islandmagee defence and slotted the ball in to go in 4-1 at half time.
Islandmagee looked brighter at the beginning of the second period, and they were so unlucky not to score, when Gareth McConnell connected brilliantly with a header from a McCormick free kick, but the ball smacked right off the front of the bar, with the �keeper beaten.
On 49 minutes the Drumaness keeper made an excellent double save from Charlie Robinson and 15 minutes later Wayne Patterson�s effort was blocked on the line and Dougan�s rebound went just wide of the post.
If it had gone in, Gareth Murray�s rocket shot from 35 yards, which struck off the angle of the goal frame, may have been the best goal of the season.
The woodwork prevented Islandmagee again just before the end, when after he was tumbled down in the box, Loughlin smacked the resulting penalty off the underside of the bar. It was obvious that Islandmagee were going to have a really unlucky day and it was a pretty poor performance all round.
The standard will definitely need to be raised when the league leaders come to Wilbourne next week.
Islandmagee 5 - 4 Malachians
On another gloomy day at Wilbourne Park, it was the league leaders, Malachians who came to challenge Island. On the back of last week�s defeat a win was very important for Islandmagee but the hopeful Champions weren�t wanting to give anything away.
John Loughlin was sidelined and Davy Dougan returned to team joining Charlie Robinson up front. McCormick, Gilmore and Magill were on the bench but they didn�t have to wait too long before coming on.
Islandmagee got a good early lead, after 10 minutes, when in a goalmouth scramble, Robinson, Murray and Dougan all had chances to put the ball in, but David Rollo was there to finish on his second attempt, to score his second of the season.
Immediately afterwards there was a substitution, which saw Patterson leave being replaced by McCormick.
It wasn�t long before Island were testing the Malachians keeper, who made brilliant saves from Dougan, McConnell and Robinson in quick succession, and McCormick hitting the crossbar..
The keeper was beaten with 27 minutes gone when what looked like a great ball by Workman was taken towards the box and Robinson chased and then jumped to head the ball in. As after the last goal, this one was followed by substitution, Warren Wilson going off for Gilmore.
On the half hour mark Malachians pulled one back. It happened after a poor Islandmagee throw went to a green player, and one though ball spilt the defence allowing the striker to slot the ball past Williamson.
6 minutes later and Malachians were equal. Williamson committed but missed a corner and the Malachians put it into the net.
Islandmagee replied with the most stunning effort of the day as McConnell struck a free kick from just less than the half way line, which struck off the underside of the bar and bounced out off the goalkeeper.
Steven Gilmore who had only been on the pitch for 15 minutes, had to be taken off on a stretcher to receive treatment. Darryn Magill replaced him. Meanwhile on the pitch Rollo had a good chance to put Island ahead and on the stroke of half time, the impressive Rollo was involved again when he helped scramble the ball in, although amongst a melee of players it seems Charlie Robinson got the final touch.
Islandmagee were happy going in leading 3-2 at half time, although all substitutes had already been used.
The scores were levelled five minutes in the second half, from a corner, where the Islandmagee marking was non-existent, allowing the Malachians striker to nod home from 6 yards.
It was thanks to Williamson that Islandmagee didn�t ever go a goal behind, when he made a brilliant one-on-one save.
Down the other end of Wilbourne Park, an in swinging free-kick from David McCormick made its way through a crowd of players and Robinson poked in at the back post for his hatrick and to make it 4-3.
On 78 minutes the game really did become a thriller when Malachians equalised once more with a terrific free-kick from 25 yards.
It wasn�t over yet though, and there was more to come from the �rocket Robinson�. He grabbed a winner for Islandmagee by volleying in past the keeper, after a Henry flick-on header, from about 6 yards out. This was his fourth goal of the match.
Islandmagee held on successfully for 10 minutes to clinch a well-earned victory over the league leaders.
Next week is the big game against rivals Barn United in the Clarence Cup.
Barn United 1 - 0 Islandmagee
There were no doubts about Saturday�s local �match of the day�, the first meeting of the season between 1A promotion challengers Barn United and Premiership neighbours Islandmagee - and it�s the Carrick boys who rather fortuitously edge through to the next round, where they will face another derby, and the challenge of Wellington Rec.
So Graham McConnell still hasn�t beaten Barn United during his managership. Granted, Island could point to noted absentees such as skipper Warren Wilson, David Rollo, Glen Clyde, Steven Gilmore and John Loughlin - but then Barn were also without the man who has netted exactly half of the 50 goals they had scored this season, Andy Waide.
It was Barn, too, who had the first real opening on four minutes; veteran keeper Davy Haggan hurling himself to his right to paw away Wayne Patterson�s low drive, following a neat lay off by Davy Dougan.
At the other end, Rab Butler really should have made better use of Darryn Magill�s miskick, and although he managed to win the free-kick, with better control he would have been straight through on goal. Then, from the free-kick, Mark Doyle really should have reacted better, after Raymond Hammond�s cross was fumbled by Johnny Williamson.
The Island keeper, though, did better on nine minutes, getting down well at his bottom right hand post to cling onto Scott Irvine�s left wing cross that might just have been creeping in. Seven minutes later, Butler hammered a left foot shot straight at Williamson.
Barn were maybe just edging it and on 22 minutes they were given another timely boost when Magill was red carded for his role in a little bit of argy-bargy with Hammond. Spectators close to the incident maintained that Hammond wasn�t entirely blameless in sparking off Magill�s �red mist�. Some also thought that, with tensions running high in a local ding dong, yellow might have sufficed, but really referee Gary Williamson, who didn�t have a great game, really had little other choice.
The referee also had quite a lengthy chat with Hammond, in which he had the yellow card in his right hand, but obviously he neglected to show it to the midfielder or else the Barn man would have walked on 33 minutes when his name was jotted down in the official�s notebook, after what looked to be a foul, on Hammond, by Graeme Henry.
With Doyle hardly the most prolific striker in the country, despite all his hard running, and Butler invariably trying to take that touch too much, Barn never really looked like capitalising on that numerical advantage, and instead it was the Wilbourners who were starting to threaten at the other end; Charlie Robinson hoisting a Dougan cross high over the bar, and then Gareth McConnell thumping a free-kick straight at Haggan.
Then right on half time, Williamson darted off his line to block with his legs, after Butler had fastened onto Brian Anderson�s penetrating pass.
Whatever Graham McConnell said to his troops during that interval break (where Island had to wait on the changing rooms being unlocked) certainly worked and there was more than a suspicion of handball by Gary McKee just two minutes after the turnaround when Dougan looped one onto the bar.
Dougan, too, should have done better on 51 minutes, heading against the bar from only a few yards out, after Robinson had shrewdly headed a McConnell free-kick back across goal.
Three minutes later, Robinson again flicked the ball over to Dougan, whose low drive was safely held by Haggan.
Then just when the tie looked to be firmly swinging the ten men�s way, a goal duly arrived - at the other end. A case of the unlucky �13th� minute of the half, as Paul Waite stole in to direct Hammond�s measured right wing cross beyond the outstretched Williamson, into the bottom left hand corner.
Islandmagee, nonetheless, almost bounced back straight away, and Robinson, after his four goals last week, must still be wondering just how he hoisted Patterson�s cross shot (which might have been going in anyway) over the bar from just a few feet out. Granted, Charlie looked to be offside, but the �goal� would have counted, since the referee awarded a �bye-ball�.
Barn, nevertheless, could have steadied their hand, with Williamson doing well to fingertip Butler�s left foot curler over the bar. Doyle, too, surely had time to bring the ball down on 65 minutes, instead of hooking the ball first time, off target, following Anderson�s telling break down the right flank.
Anderson was again involved four minutes later, releasing Hammond, who again swung over an inviting cross, only for Butler to totally slice his shot; the ball trundling just wide of the right hand post.
From there on in, though, it was mostly Islandmagee, with Barn surviving another narrow escape when McConnell, from only a few yards out, thundered a Henry cross against the bar. Then just seconds later, Robinson, put through nicely by Gareth Murray, clipped the outside of Haggan�s left hand post.
Patterson, meanwhile, was having one of his better games in an Islandmagee shirt and a clever interchange with Robinson unearthed a glorious opportunity for Dougan, which the unmarked Scotsman slashed well wide of the target.
Island, nonetheless, should have restored parity on 78 minutes when Dougan was chopped down inside the box by McKee. Up stepped Robinson to place the resultant penalty far too close to Haggan�s left hand - and with all due respects to the veteran custodian, this is one that has to be filed under �penalty miss� rather than �penalty save�!
Island surely knew that it just wasn�t going to be their day, but they kept plugging away and it needed a well-timed tackle from Stephen Tierney to prevent Robinson homing onto Dougan�s neat pass.
Some substitutions seemed to take the sting out of that cavalry charge, as Barn tried to play the remaining minutes out of the danger area; their only minor fright coming when substitute Mark Brown handled in the area but Mr Williamson presumably adjudged that he merely had his arms up protecting his face from Murray�s pot-shot.
New Sign at Wilbourne Park Entrance
A very attractive new sign has recently been erected above the main entrance to Wilbourne Park, as shown in the photo below. This was thanks to the new sponsors, Cahoon Motors, Carrickfergus.
Islandmagee 1 - 1 Nortel

All square then in Saturday's first ever meeting between Islandmagee and Nortel at new Wilbourne Park, and in the end, neither side will be too dissapointed as they edge their way towards the mid table comfort zone.
It was something of a strange match; Nortel having the better of the first half, only to go off a goal behind, and outscore Island in the second session, were it was the Islanders who had the territorial edge.
After a few inaupicious performances of late from Johnny Williamson, Island paraded new signing Darren Crawford, though the one time Larne custadonian had little chance to prove his pedigree, apart from one save to deprieve Mark Finn.
While Nortel had more of the posession, it was Islandmagee who nosed ahead just a minute before half time when Charlie Robinson caught the Factory side dosing at the back, stealing in to head in a David McCormick corner.
Nortel, nonetheless, restored the equalibrium just after the resumption when Finn hammered the ball in at the second attempt, after fastening unto a tidy cross from Scott Hill.
Island, who were good value for a 3-2 victory when the sides last met on the Doagh Road four weeks earlier, went all out to complete the league double, over their neighbours and Davy Dougan and David Hawthorne weren't far away before Robinson again ded the necessarty with another back post finish for his 23rd goal of the season- not bad for a striker who missed the opening matches of the campaign, when he was suggestioning that he was instead going to concentrate on playing golf.
Nortel, nevertheless, were soon back on par, with Alan Soloman and Colin Gardener linking up to unearth an opening for Scott Hill to slot the ball past Crawford.
For the remainder, either side could have won it, though it was Island, who came closest with Ian Haveron pulling of the ave of the match just two minutes from time to deny Robinson his hatrick.
Islandmagee 1 - 4 Knockbreda Parish

Wanting revenge from their home defeat earlier in the season, Knockbreda Parish travelled up to Wilbourne in search of a revenge win.
Their task made much easier, by the news that Islandmagee were with without regular first team players, Rollo, Clyde, Gilmore, Loughlin, McCormick and Gareth McConnell. This left starting chances for second team players McAllister and Banks and substitute roles for Gowdy and Williamson.
Islandmagee started in typically bright fashion, when after winning a corner, Wayne Patterson crossed for Davy Dougan to head toward goal, the �keeper saved the effort.
Dougan continued his good start by beating two players then laying off Charlie Robinson, who hit a sweet strike only to hit the side netting.
After 7 minutes, however the tide soon turned when Knockbreda sliced open the defence leaving Warren Wilson and Johnny Williamson open to an attack by three Parish players. Wilson put them off enough, allowing Williamson to make a smart one on one like save from the feet of the player.
It wasn�t too long before Knockbreda took advantage of Island�s obvious defensive imperfection when a cross cam into the Islandmagee box, and no Parish players where there, Graham Henry panicked and sliced the ball into the net with his shin.
Mere seconds later, Knockbreda launched another attack when their massive striker played a ball, again cutting us apart, leaving the left winger to, in fairness, finish with a very well taken shot.
Manager McConnell acted swiftly with a change when Steven Hawthorne, who was late arriving to Wilbourne, replaced Ricky Workman, for reasons unbeknownst.
Regardless, this seemed to calm the tide, and Parish went in at the interval with the advantage.
After on two minutes of the second half, Knockbreda with their first touches of the ball, scored the killer third goal Breda�s Gareth Walsh nutmegged Wayne Patterson, then played through their massive striker who twisted and turned, then scuffed a shot and was very lucky that it just crept over the line. Now three nil down, Islandmagee started to play some nice stuff, but the feeling was that it was already all too late to salvage the game.
Gareth Murray restored some Islandmagee pride when he converted a penalty, won by Dougan. Who after being kicked up and down, and pushed all over, all day, had some reward for his misfortunes. It was coolly taken, and Murray was confident. Islandmagee could do worse than install Murray as the regular penalty taker. A class act today, and one can only feel that the end score line could have been worse without him.
Constant Islandmagee attacking meant good goal scoring chances for David Hawthorne, who had two headers cleared off the line, and Charlie Robinson.
However, controversy arose again when two Knockbreda players grabbed Gareth Murray and hauled him to the ground just when he was about to jab the ball in the net. Referee Redfearn said �no�.
A rare counter attack by Knockbreda resulted in their fourth and final goal when a deep cross was headed in by an unmarked Breda player at the back post.
Islandmagee will be hoping for two things when they travel to Comber next week, the two things will be a better defensive performance, and better luck in front of goal.
Islandmagee page added to popular website...

Islandmagee have recently had page added to the popular Irish League Forums website. The page, which is solely devoted to the club, outlines the club's colourful history and successes. Included also is a labelled squad picture, and links to Islandmagee's official website. It is hoped that through this endeavour, the site will create more traffic.
To view this page click here.
Linfield win Shield decider

Congratulations are extended to Linfield FC who won the County Antrim Shield decider with Ards at The Oval. Linfield defeated Islandmagee in the first round of the competition at Windsor Park. Goals from Davy Lamour and a Marty Hunter own goal saw the Shield go to where Islandmagee exited the competition- Windsor Park.
Comber Rec 1 - 1 Islandmagee

Following last week�s poor performance at home, Islandmagee travelled to Comber Rec. to a ground where they find it very hard to win. In fact the Islanders have not left �Park Way� with the two points since 2nd January 1999, when Comber were on the end of a 4-2 defeat.
It was vital however that something was achieved today, against the team placed closest to Islandmagee in the league. Although a stronger team was out than against Knockbreda, they were still without the services of John Loughlin, Ricky Workman, David Dougan, Stephen Gilmore and Glen Clyde. David McCormick, David Rollo and Neil McConnell returned to the team while Gareth McConnell returned to the bench.
Islandmagee had slightly the better of a very tough half, which was packed with tension. On the first clear-cut chance of the game, Islandmagee broke the deadlock. An in swinging McCormick corner, on 37 minutes, was guided perfectly straight to the head of David Hawthorne who powered the header straight past the keeper into the Comber net.
This was a spark in the fire, which caused Comber to lose control of their temper, in an attempt to try and intimidate Islandmagee out of the game. This resulted in three bookings for the county down side, and a period of time leading up to the break where all control had practically disappeared. How pleased the referee must have been to blow the whistle for half time, including no stoppage time whatsoever.
The first and really the only major incident of the second game occurred on 66 minutes, when the referee awarded Comber a soft penalty after the striker tripped himself after a Neil McConnell challenge. They took the opportunity well, the kicker sending Williamson the wrong way, to accurately convert the spot kick and level the scores.
Islandmagee�s best chance to win the game came 12 minutes before the end. A blocked shot from Wayne Patterson fell nicely for McCormick, but his shot curled just inches over the crossbar.
In the end it was Comber who had the final opportunity to snatch the victory, but luckily for the reds, Johnny Williamson was out well to make a great one on one save.
Islandmagee 2 - 0 Ards Rangers

Islandmagee welcomed sixth place Ards Rangers to Wilbourne Park for this league encounter. Islandmagee made several changes to the XI, from the Comber game, as out went Neil McConnell and Ian Banks, and Glen Clyde returned to the bench after injury, Gareth McConnell also came in beside Gareth Murray in the middle. Ricky Workman also came in to make his last appearance before moving to Scotland.
Islandmagee started well with a sustained period of possession, and this resulted in the opening goal of the game. A high ball into the box was unconvincingly cleared, the ball bounced out to Gareth Murray who sold the nearest defender a dummy before flicking the ball over the next oncoming defender, before hitting a sublime volley in off the post.
Charlie Robinson and David Hawthorne combined well, on 25 minutes, to carve open the Ards defence, leaving Charlie Robinson one on one with the goalkeeper. The �keeper saved well; however, it seemed that Robinson had just too much time to make his mind up.
This gave Island a boost and they upped the ante, and seconds later, Gareth Murray crossed to the back post where Gareth McConnell side footed a volley just wide of the post. The ensuing goal kick fell to David McCormick he ran at the defence and hit an effort from 18 yards, but didn�t trouble the �keeper.
One felt another Islandmagee goal was impending and so it did. David McCormick worked space for Ricky Workman to cross for Wayne Patterson to volley first time into the net, where the goalkeeper didn�t move. 2-0 Islandmagee it stayed until the interval.
Soon after the break Workman had a good chance to score, when he headed a cross just wide. Despite various attempts from Patterson and Robinson, Island couldn�t add to the tally. It took an hour for Ards Rangers to have their first opportunity to trouble Williamson, but he was ready and tipped a long range drive over the bar.
Five minutes later, Ards were reduced to ten men, when their No. 10 was sent off for a second bookable misdemeanour. This didn�t really invoke Islandmagee much to push on and wrap the game up, however, the impressive Wayne Patterson battled well, to provide an opportunity for David Hawthorne who hit an effort well wide.
Ards Rangers were reduced furthermore, when they were brought down to 9 men, again a player was sent of for a second yellow.
Not much followed as the game was now over, and Islandmagee continued to the end with long, long periods of unbroken possession as Ards Rangers evidently tired. This was a good win for Island after a disappointing result last time out.
Islandmagee II 3 - 1 Grange II

With the first team match off, Islandmagee seconds probably had their biggest support of the season for their game at home against Grange seconds. The pitch, as usual was in perfect order although the same couldn�t be said about the awful weather conditions. Still neck and neck at the top of the division 3E every match is vital for the seconds, and they knew that third placed Grange would be no pushover.
Islandmagee had the strong wind behind them in the first half and it wasn�t long before they went ahead. John Wilson played a great ball back across goal to set up Ricky Coulter who hammered the ball into the net, after only five minutes.
John Wilson turned from provider to scorer himself, thumping the ball from 35 yards, giving the keeper no chance and putting Islandmagee 2-0 ahead.
Johnny Love had numerous chances to extend the league but just before the break Ricky Coulter got his second of the game, when he headed past the keeper.
Everyone knew that after the turnaround Islandmagee would face a tough battle against the wind. They certainly did but good defending by Bothwell, McAllistair, Todd and McElnea ensured that goalkeeper Priestly only had to make a few saves. However there was one blip when a goalmouth scramble allowed Grange to pull a goal back, putting Islandmagee under some pressure for the remaining fifteen minutes. John McAllistair brought on Wayne Patterson, who had many chances to seal the game, and Coulter had a goal disallowed, but thankfully they held out to uphold their unbeaten league record and go top of the table.
Islandmagee II 1 - 1 East Down II
Although Islandmagee were promoted last weekend, Islandmagee needed to win to keep their title hopes alive.
Islandmagee came out the slower of the two sides but it was Islandmagee who had the first real chance of the the game when a Coulter corner hit the top of the crossbar.
After 15 mins East Down took the lead due to awful defensive mistakes that let the East Down striker slot the ball past Gordon Priestly 0 - 1
Islandmagee then went looking for a quick equaliser. It was after 35 mins when a looping shot from Coulter was flapped into the net by the East Down keeper. 1 - 1
Down then pressurised Islandmagee and got a corner. The corner was swung into the area and Todd headed against his own post. Half time 1 - 1
Islandmagee had the first chance of the second half when a deflected Coulter shot hit the underside of the bar.
After an hour of the game gone Todd had a quick free kick which crashed off the outside of the post.
With 15 mins to go, Islandmagee went searching for a winner. Islandmagee thought they had the winner but the referee disallowed the goal. This frustrated the fans and the players. Coulter was then sent off for his protest against the referee's  decision.
This could prove to be the game that lost Islandmagee the chance of lifting the league title. Full time 1 - 1

Reporter: Darren Kane
1st Bangor 1 - 1 Islandmagee

After a two-week break from league action Islandmagee travelled to Newtownards to take on their first newly promoted opponents, who are currently sitting second in the league.
Islandmagee had a debutant in midfield, Paul Waite, who had recently transferred from Barn United. He joined a team that was without Clyde, McCormick, Loughlin, Henry and Gilmore.
The Islanders began very well, immediately torturing the Bangor defence, who were beaten on 4 minutes, only for the upright of the goal frame to save them from a Robinson header; Gareth McConnell providing the inch perfect cross.
The county down side were defending with their backs to the line and it was right on the goal line that a defender blocked a powerful Waite header.
On 7 minutes Islandmagee did get their goal. It began when Gareth McConnell played a long ball over the top from the half way line. Wayne Patterson did brilliantly to square the ball on the half volley back across goal, where David Hawthorne was there to strike the ball into the roof of the net.
The Bangor �keeper did just enough to stop Gareth Murray doubling Island�s lead on 15 minutes, when he tipped his header over the bar.

Islandmagee took the lead into the break, unlucky for it to be so slender, especially as goalkeeper Williamson, wasn�t required once the whole half.
They continued to play well after they turned around and faced the wind, with Patterson and Robinson forcing saves from the Bangor keeper.
The Wilbourners domination continued but completely against the run of play 1st Bangor sneaked an equaliser when they squeezed a back post header in, after an in swinging, wind-assisted corner.
The best chance to win the game came in the 90th minute when Wayne Patterson crossed the ball to Charlie Robinson who missed what looked like an open goal at the back post. The last incident of the game saw a 1st Bangor player sent off for a bizarre incident where he ended up in a brawl with his own teammates.
Drumaness Mills 2 - 2 Islandmagee

Islandmagee travelled to Drumaness where they�ve profited little in recent seasons. That said, Meadowvale is the site of one of the Island�s best performances of the season- the Quarter final tie in the Steel and Sons Cup, where they won 4-3.
Manager McConnell made 1 change to last weeks starting 11 by replacing Waite with David McCormick.
In many respects, that was the only change since last week, because the game started the same way as the previous weeks encounter. Islandmagee started well, and the fact that Williamson had one touch in the first 40 minutes, says a lot for the domination Island had over the tie.
The first goal of the game came, and deserved it was too for Islandmagee, after a sustained period of pressure from the Island a Davy Rollo clearance was knocked on by Charlie Robinson, freeing Wayne Patterson to fly in and break the deadlock, with
a fierce finish.
Little chances followed, though Island went close to going 2-0 ahead when Charlie Robinson rose well to knock a Gareth Murray free kick narrowly over.
After the break was a different story, Mills, benefiting from the break came out fighting, and went close to equalising on 49 minutes, only to have the post deny them a screamer of a goal.
Mills equalised through Glentoran forward Conor Walsh dancing through the Island defence to blast home.
A period of gentle sparring continued well into the second half, until Islandmagee went close to taking both points.
A very good goal by any standards, put Islandmagee 2-1 up. A free kick given just outside the defensive 18 yard box, was the catalyst for the goal, owing a lot to the vision of Captain, Warren Wilson. After picking out Paul Waite 50 yards away, Wiate then directed a defence splitting header which allowed Robinson to break away and thrash in a half volley.
This joy was short lived however, as Mills refused to lie down. After a hopeful ball was knocked into the box, Davy Rollo, amongst others, failed to clear the danger, and the Drumaness striker placed the ball so well into the bottom corner Williamson barley saw it.
Island can only try harder on Tuesday night at Enkalon not to give away hard earned leads.
Islandmagee 5 - 2 FC Enkalon

Islandmagee welcomed FC Enkalon to a rain lashed Wilbourne Park, to face the Antrim side for the second time in a week, following the 4-0 victory on Tuesday night.
Manager McConnell made one change to the side that played in Antrim, with Gareth Murray replacing Paul Waite who dropped to the bench.
All were in doubt as to whether or not the match would go ahead. Of course it wasn't because of the weather as the pitch was as ever in excellent condition. Instead the referee insisted that technical areas should be added to the pitch ide, just five minutes before kick-off.
Despite what the weather conditions would have suggested at the outset, the match wasn�t that bad considering. It only took 5 minutes in fact for the first goal to come. And after the last 7 matches, it came as no surprise that Islandmagee would take the lead. It came after Neil McConnell played a long ball down the right channel which was well collected by Charlie Robinson, who was sabotaged there and then. Gareth McConnell floated the resulting free kick into the far top corner over the goalkeeper, who should perhaps, have done better.
Islandmagee took further advantage from the lack of morale now within the Enkalon camp, as they went two up after Wayne Patterson cut in from the right flank to curl a left footed shot into the corner, the goalkeeper had no chance. This came after David Hawthorne should have tested the goalkeeper with a shot from just outside the box.
The goalmouth action died down until 38 minutes when Charlie Robinson was extremely unlucky to see 2 point blank efforts deny him a place on the score sheet. These chances were to be the last of  the half for Island, but not so for Enkalon who pulled a goal back in first half injury time. Johnny Williamson was unlucky not to get more than fingers on the shot.

Island could have been forgiven for thinking that Enkalon would have been revitalised for the second half. So David McCormick was surprised to find himself put Islandmagee 3-1 up after a few minutes into the re start. This came after both Gareth McConnell and Murray had one a series of 50/ 50 tackles outside the D area. The ball fell to McCormick who drove a left footed curling shot out of the keeper reach in the far corner.
Gareth McConnell was then rewarded for his aforementioned battling efforts, as he put the mighty Islanders 4-1 ahead after Charlie Robinson cunningly worked himself into a position to enable him to cut the ball back to allow McConnell to slot home. Enkalon, however to their credit, refused to give up completely and they took advantage of a defensive mix up to roll the ball into the vacated Island goal.
Once again, however, Islandmagee went straight up the other end, and Wayne Patterson having gained possession on the half way line, got himself into the box o cross only for Jackie Burrows to put the ball past his own keeper to comply misery on the relegated Antrim outfit.
FC Enkalon 0 - 4 Islandmagee

Islandmagee travelled to play FC Enkalon in their first midweek match of the season rundown and what was an opportunity for Islandmagee to secure their status in the Premier League for next year, whilst sealing the doom of Enkalon.
It was 10 of the same starting 11 as Saturday, the only change being Waite in for Murray who joined Clyde and Dougan on the bench.
Enkalon started off well and it was obvious they wanted to hit Islandmagee early. Thanks to the efforts of the defence, in particular Wilson and Rollo, the Antrim side could not penetrate.
Islandmagee really began to open up towards the end of the first half with Patterson, McCormick and D. Hawthorne troubling the Enkalon defence with attacking runs.

What had been a pretty close encounter in the first half was certainly quite to the contrary in the second. Early on, the keeper pulled off a great save from a David Hawthorne shot, but couldn�t keep him out on his next attempt when he headed in a Wayne Patterson cross.
A substitution saw Murray come on for Waite, and he wasn�t on too long before he scored. Murray won the ball on the edge of the box a rifled a shot, low into the bottom right corner of the net to put Islandmagee 2-0 ahead.
Enkalon now looked deflated and thing got worse for them when David Hawthorne got his second and Island�s third of the game. Charlie Robinson slipped in a brilliant through ball, although Hawthorne still had a lot to do as he beat a defender for pace and finished well past the keeper.
A good victory was comprehensively sealed for the Islanders just minutes from the end, after a goal kick fell to Robinson who unleashed a rocket from 25 yards, which rattled in off the underside of the crossbar.
This meant that Islandmagee were practically safe, only for a mere chance for Enkalon to level, however the reverse of this fixture on Saturday will provide the chance to make it a mathematical certainty.
Islandmagee 0 - 0 Killyleagh YC

Unless they do the business in the reigning champions� back yard this Saturday, Islandmagee might have to wait another season to clinch their long overdue victory over a Killyleagh Youth Club side who famously knocked them out of three knock out competitions this year; the Irish Cup, and at the semi final stage, the Steel and Sons and the Border Regiment Cups.
Killyleagh�s first visit to �new� Wilbourne Park came to a premature end when Brian Boyde broke his ankle in what looked like an innocent enough challenge with keeper Johnny Williamson and sweeper Warren Wilson. It was immediately obvious that Boyde was in severe pain and, while some St John�s Ambulance Brigade staff attending the adjacent Community Centre came to his assistance, with the delay in the arrival of the ambulance, both sides agreed that the match should be abandoned and as there were more than 70 minutes played, according to referee Davy Redfern, the result will stand.
Saturday�s tussle, though, didn�t follow the script of those two semi finals where Islandmagee were on top, creating  - and missing chances � with Killyleagh coming strong to sneak it in the end, although in that Steel and Sons encounter at Seaview they did need the assistance of penalties.
This one wasn�t quite so clear cut, and if anything it was Killyleagh who had the better of what chances there were, although with Island playing what used to be known as �down the hill� with the wind behind them, it was very much still in the balance. Granted, despite his cameo appearance during the week against Dunmurry Young Men, Island were still without the man who caused Killyleagh so many problems in those semi finals, John Loughlin, for whom again �things went better with Coagh� � that was until he was sent off in their tussle with Wakehurst!
Yet Islandmagee haven�t lost a Premiership game since Loughlin elected to have another stab at the Irish League Division 2, and they started Saturday�s game on the back of a nine match unbeaten league run, and while Killyleagh may have enjoyed a slight edge, the game was bubbling up nicely for an exciting climax. Killyleagh manager Dee Heron, for instance, was more than happy to settle for a point, rather than to come back to the Island to do it all again!
Nonetheless, without his old buddy Loughlin, Charlie Robinson is having to burrow a lone furrow up front, where he was carefully monitored by Mark Murray, still one of the best centre halves in the league. With Wayne Patterson and David McCormick playing on the flanks and at times a little too wide, Robinson was depending on some support from midfield, where Gareth McConnell, Gareth Murray and Paul Waite were just all too similar. A case of �three�s a crowd�, and all too often they were just too close together, with their close passing more than once letting them down. Granted, the one central midfielder most likely to get forward and lend Charlie a hand, David Hawthorne took a knock during Thursday night�s visit to Dunmurry Young Men and was thus fit only for bench duty.
Killyleagh began with the assistance of that stiff breeze, which was blowing mostly right down the pitch but they failed to really trouble keeper Williamson. One particular free kick from Andy McMenamin, for instance, even cleared the perimeter fence landing on the roof of one of the new houses just behind the ground.
Manager Graham McConnell might not have been too happy with some of the free kicks carelessly given away in dangerous territory, and the visitors were getting closer, with Williamson getting down well to cling onto efforts from John Murray and Boyde. A searing cross from Rogan, too, flashed right across the face of the Island goal, hurtling just wide of the left hand post, with Williamson scampering to get across.
 At the other end, David Rollo powered a McCormick corner over the bar, while Murphy just whipped the ball off Robinson�s toe, just when it looked as though Island�s leading marksman was going to have a pot on goal. Island, too, had a rather half hearted penalty appeal turned down, when Murray went down under McMenamin�s challenge.
It was Killyleagh, nevertheless, who ended the half the stronger with Neil McConnell doing well to shepherd the ball away from Philip Rogan, while Willie McIlroy had an angled effort deflected over the bar.
Then right on half time, Boyde clipped the top of the crossbar, after rising to meet a Philip Crawford cross.
Still, with the elements behind them after the break, Island were cautiously optimistic, though, perhaps in keeping with their bad run of luck of late against Dee Heron�s side, that breeze didn�t quite seem so intense, as the teams resumed for the second half and again it was the visitors who came closest, with Boyde failing to take advantage of Jim Murray�s inviting left wing cross.
Killyleagh, too, had a penalty appeal turned down on 55 minutes when Warren Wilson appeared to barge into McIlroy at the near post.
Three minutes later, McIlroy danced past three defenders, carving out an opening for Rogan, whose touch in front of goal again deserted him.
Yet there were signs that Islandmagee, in more ways than one, were starting to get their �second wind� and on 63 minutes visitors� keeper Brian Burgess was happy enough to palm over a teasing effort from Murray.
Big Graham, nevertheless, will have noticed how Killyleagh were starting to get in behind the home defence. Williamson had been on red alert just after the break in dashing out to hack the ball away from Rogan, who had sneaked round on the wrong side of Rollo. And similarly, it was Boyde ghosting in behind Wilson that resulted in that collision with Williamson that brought the match to a premature end; the ball rolling tantalisingly wide of the right hand post.
It�s best wishes to Boyde for a speedy recovery and let�s hope that it�s fifth time lucky for the Wilbourners when the sides meet again in Killyleagh on Saturday. A win for Island would certainly help to open up the championship race again as well as strengthening their own claims for a top five finish � who would have expected that away back in August (apart from Graham McConnell) when Island lost four of their first five games, all played admittedly away from home.
Dunmurry Y.M. 0 - 2 Islandmagee

Napier Park was the venue for the match against Dunmurry YM, which had been rearranged from earlier in the season. The �basement boys� have been grounded to the bottom of the league since well before Christmas and their fate was almost sealed by the time Island put six past them at Wilbourne in January. The travelling Islanders were looking to continue their ascent up the top half of the league table, with a possible 5th place finish in sight.
Absent from the panel were Robinson and Rollo; they were replaced by Loughlin and Kitson, both making rare appearances, whilst Waite came in for Gareth McConnell who joined Baxter and Bothwell on the substitutes� bench.
An early scare for the Islanders saw Williamson make a good save, to redeem himself after he kicked a poor goal kick straight to the feet of an opposing striker.
David McCormick was looking sharp right from the outset and he was troubling the Dunmurry defence with fast attacking runs. One of these resulted in a great ball to Kitson, whose scissor kick went just wide of the post.
A good build up from Murray and McCormick set up Loughlin whose shot was well saved by the keeper. Shortly after this a through ball from Kitson put McCormick one on one with the goalkeeper, whom he rounded superbly and shot from a narrow angle. The ball hit the chasing defender and bounced onto the post.
Island finally got ahead on 37 min, and the goal was well deserved by McCormick who had been excellent so far. It was certainly no standard goal either, as David unleashed a shot from 35 yards into the top left corner of the net.
After the break, it was only 3 minutes until Islandmagee extended their lead. It was Kitson who provided once again, when he played the ball to Patterson who slipped the ball nicely into the bottom corner, past the young men keeper.
This goal seemed to kill off Dunmurry, and Islandmagee were happy to settle for the two-goal victory as they made 3 substitutions, Baxter, G. McConnell and Wilson coming on for McCormick, Murray and Wilson.
The only other piece of action in the time that remained was a bizarre incident, where a Dunmurry YM player saw red after he head-butted his own player for a missed chance.
Islandmagee 2 - 0 Comber Rec.
Islandmagee welcomed Comber Rec to Wilbourne on Tuesday for an evening fixture, which saw a much changed Islandmagee face an equally changed Comber Rec side.
After being signed for Islandmagee for the last two seasons, Billy Waide eventually started a game for Islandmagee. He would hope to have a debut similar to that of his brother, Andy, who scored twice on his sole Island outing.
Islandmagee started, as usual, with an attacking streak, with Charlie Robinson and David Hawthorne both going close in the opening stages of the game. Despite the constant timid sparring, the Comber team matched us in the first period.
Warren Wilson also went on a notable 70 yard run beating several men, doing what only he can do, unfortunately there was no end product. However, in the second period, he found himself clean through on goal, only to hit a weak effort straight at the goalkeeper.
Having been in a lean scoring spell of late, it might have surprised a few that David McCormick started on the bench. However, in an inspired change, McCormick had no sooner come on until he had the best chance of the game, clean through on goal but failing to round the keeper, resulted in the scores staying level.
However his second chance came soon later, after being picked out on the left wing by Neil McConnell, �DD� beat the first man and found Islandmagee in a 2 on 1 situation, with Charlie Robinson being the other Island figurehead. McCormick looked up, and �shot� and watched the ball float over the helpless keeper. I�ll take the liberty of sitting on the fence with regard to judgement on whether it was meant or not!
However, that said, there is little doubt over his second effort. A cute ball from Wayne Patterson from the right, found its way through to McCormick 17 yards out straight above the penalty spot. Instead of collecting the ball and advancing further, he expertly side footed the ball into the same top corner. Two nil Island, and the game over.
Killyleagh YC 1 - 1 Islandmagee

It was a big day in sunny Killyleagh on the first day of May, with the staging of the annual Killyleagh show. However the arguably bigger event was taking place in the so-called �Killyleagh Showgrounds�, as the champions welcomed Islandmagee, to battle out their fifth encounter of the season, only one week after the scoreless draw at Wilbourne Park.
Islandmagee were without Williamson, Waite, Neil McConnell, Loughlin and Murray. Veteran Peter Ross set a record, starting in nets at the age of 46, whilst Banks, Dougan and David Hawthorne came back into the starting eleven.
Killyleagh were at full strength apart from Boyd who suffered the bad injury last week at Wilbourne.
All the fans weren�t even through the turnstiles when David McCormick dodged through the Killyleagh defence and forced a great save from the keeper, Burgess.
It wasn�t long however before Killyleagh had Island defending with their backs against the wall and caused Ross to make two good saves, and resist this period of pressure.
McCormick flicked a Rollo free kick on to the feet of Robinson, whose close range shot was saved. Burgess denied Robinson again on 26 minutes when he got on the end of a Dougan free kick.
Ten minutes after the break Killyleagh were awarded a penalty after a foul was committed by Banks on McIlroy, which could well have been outside the box. Regardless, it was a showdown between the two goalkeepers as Burgess stepped up to fire the ball to Ross� left.
Conceding a goal in these circumstances, when Islandmagee were on top of the game made them even more determined. Dougan had to go off with an injury and he was replaced by Love, who injected more pace up front.
On 76 minutes, Wayne Patterson who had just started to come to life after a quiet first period, had a great run from deep in Island�s half, before slipping the ball to David Hawthorne who waltzed through the Killyleagh defence. His shot was parried by Burgess but David McCormick was there to hammer in the rebound and put Islandmagee ahead with his fifth goal in as many games.
Just after this Islandmagee were piling on the pressure and one effort from the head of Charlie Robinson crossed the line by about a foot, however referee, McLaughlin said no to the Islandmagee appeals.
The final chance to win the game fell to Killyleagh in a goalmouth scramble when Banks and Wilson cleared shots from McIlroy and Rogan off the goal line.
So the game ended 1-1 and Islandmagee were the happier of the two sides, Killyleagh fearing that their title aspirations could be jeopardised. That was only until they received phone calls from Larne Tech and 1st Bangor, finding out that they were champions for the fifth year in succession.
For Islandmagee it guaranteed a fifth place finish, and meant that we were unbeaten over Killyleagh in the league, a feat not achieved by many teams this season.
Islandmagee 3 - 0 1st Bangor

Islandmagee welcomed 1st  Bangor to Wilbourne Park, for the last Saturday fixture this season. After a rush to get the Islander�s kit clash problem resolved, it took Islandmagee little time to get started in their now traditional, frantic start.
Indeed, the ball hadn�t been in Islandmagee�s half yet when Charlie Robinson hit the post after a super left footed cross from a free kick. That would the first of many of McCormick�s excellent deliveries.
The next real chance of the game came to Islandmagee, and captain Warren Wilson, looking to emulate his sole goal of the season against Dunmurry Rec. The effort admittedly was closer to the goal, and the goalkeeper made a comfortable safe.
An Islandmagee goal was on the horizon, and it came on 14 minutes. Warren Wilson, Gareth Murray, David McCormick and David Hawthorne combined in a flowing move to win corner. Gareth McConnell took said corner with great effect, as David Hawthorne glanced in a near post header.
In a half, which saw Johnny Williamson barely touch the ball, an amazing coincidence as the same thing happened not so long ago at The Drome.
Chances were had for Ian Banks and David McCormick but these caused no trouble to their keeper at all.
The second half started the same as the first, and in the space of five minutes Charlie Robinson, making his 100th appearance, had two goals ruled out for alleged off side.
David McCormick then warmed the goalkeeper�s hands with a blistering strike, which he could only turn away.
The next minute would decide the game. In a bizarre attempt the 1st Bangor striker hit the underside of the bar, and Warren Wilson in an unorthodox fashion cleared the ball. This sparked another Islandmagee move, and this resulted in another corner kick. From an excellent corner David Hawthorne met the ball at the near post again. 2-0.

It was clear know that the game was as good as over, and David Hawthorne collected his hat trick when through on goal, to round up a perfect performance.
What an end to the season if a repeat score line could be got over Larne Tech in Tuesday evening.
Trio called up for Rosebowl

Following an intial call up and numerous trials, Islandmagee trio, Steven Hawthorne, Charlie Robinson and Captain Warren Wilson have been included in the Northern Amatuer League team to face their Scottish counterparts at Ballynahinch, on Saturday 15th May.

The fact that only 3 players per club can be called up, is testament to the season we have enjoyed. And indeed a personal accolade for the three who have had wonderful seaons.

Islandmagee have never had three players called up in the same season, with John Loughlin being the sole call up last season.

Let's hope the three get a run out, and do themselves and the club proud, as it's fully deserved.
Islandmagee 1 - 2 LTOB

ILarne Tech Old Boys came to Wilbourne Park, for the final, and arguably most anticipated game of the season. Revenge would have been a nice way to finish off, an already successful season for Island.
Islandmagee perhaps made the better start of the two times, with sustained possession that lead to a chance for Charlie Robinson to head the ball into Greg McGoldrick�s arms from David McCormick cross. Tech replied through a Bertie Fulton cross-cum-shot that skimmed the post.
In a blow for blow encounter, David Hawthorne created a chance for himself by collecting the ball and beating several players on the half way line, before shooting from 25 yards, McGoldrick saved with ease.
A goal seemed imminent, and so it was, The Tech scored through a free back post header from sloppy marking at a corner. This was a new scenario to Island this season, as it is very rare that they don�t score first.
The Tech took confidence from their lead, and Johnny Williamson had to be at his best to deny Bertie Fulton. This was to be the last chance of the half as the Tech went one nil up at the break.
After the break things got twice as bad for Islandmagee, as the Tech went 2-0 with an unstoppable effort from the impressive Fulton, which Williamson could do nothing to prevent.
This seemed to give Island a kick into gear, and David McCormick ha a speculative effort which went wide. The Tech had evidently taken their foot off the pedal, and on 80 minutes Davy Rollo got a consolation goal for Islandmagee from a David McCormick corner. Too little, too late for Islandmagee, who�s season ended rather disappointingly.
SEASON 2008/2009


20th Dec: MATCH OFF
As expected the premier league game between Downpatrick and Islandmagee has been called OFF after a pitch inspection at Downpatrick this morning.
Islandmagee seconds are at home to Derriaghy seconds, kick off 2:00pm.

13th Dec: IRISH CUP RD 3: WELLINGTON 3-0 ISLANDMAGEE
Islandmagee will be one of 32 names in the hat for the draw for round 4 of the JJB Sports Irish Cup. Among those will be the Premiership names such as Linfield and Glentoran as well as Championship teams such as Larne or Portadown. Only three amateur league teams have made it through, Killyleagh YC and Newington YC being the other two. The round 4 draw will take place on Monday 22nd December.
Island made it there after a 3-0 derby win over Wellington Rec. This was the second 3-0 victory over the Millbrook team in two weeks, the last time in the Intermediate cup. However, on the league visit to Brookvale Park Wellington came out 4-1 winners.
Andy Waide put Islandmagee ahead from the penalty spot, after Peter Marks was blatantly tripped inside the box. It was another set piece which saw Waide get his 2nd goal, this time a 30 yard free-kick, curled low to the keeper's left. This was Andy Waide's 9th goal in 4 games.
Carl Murray sealed things at 3-0 as he hammered in after Peter Marks had teed him up.
Late on, Islandmagee substitute Alan Kerby was stretchered off with an ankle injury, and we wish him all the best in recovery.
Next week Islandmagee travel to play undefeated Downpatrick in the premier league, however there is a fair chance the match will be postponed due to their pitch.

6th Dec: ISLANDMAGEE 3 -2 DUNMURRY REC.
It took a good comeback to secure a good start to the festive period for Islandmagee as they returned to league action against the team they defeated in the Clarence Cup final back in May, Dunmurry Rec. Dunmurry went ahead with a penalty in the first minute. It took some time for Islandmagee to get out of the blocks, but after Murray levelled things at 1-1, they took control of the game. Andy Waide scored a brace to put Island 3-1 up, including a spectaular Beckham-like lob from the half way line. Dunmurry grabbed a consolation in the final seconds. 
13th Dec: IRISH CUP RD 3: WELLINGTON 3-0 ISLANDMAGEE
Islandmagee will be one of 32 names in the hat for the draw for round 4 of the JJB Sports Irish Cup. Among those will be the Premiership names such as Linfield and Glentoran as well as Championship teams such as Larne or Portadown. Only three amateur league teams have made it through, Killyleagh YC and Newington YC being the other two. The round 4 draw will take place on Monday 22nd December.
Island made it there after a 3-0 derby win over Wellington Rec. This was the second 3-0 victory over the Millbrook team in two weeks, the last time in the Intermediate cup. However, on the league visit to Brookvale Park Wellington came out 4-1 winners.
Andy Waide put Islandmagee ahead from the penalty spot, after Peter Marks was blatantly tripped inside the box. It was another set piece which saw Waide get his 2nd goal, this time a 30 yard free-kick, curled low to the keeper's left. This was Andy Waide's 9th goal in 4 games.
Carl Murray sealed things at 3-0 as he hammered in after Peter Marks had teed him up.
Late on, Islandmagee substitute Alan Kerby was stretchered off with an ankle injury, and we wish him all the best in recovery.
Next week Islandmagee travel to play undefeated Downpatrick in the premier league, however there is a fair chance the match will be postponed due to their pitch.

6th Dec: ISLANDMAGEE 3 -2 DUNMURRY REC.
It took a good comeback to secure a good start to the festive period for Islandmagee as they returned to league action against the team they defeated in the Clarence Cup final back in May, Dunmurry Rec. Dunmurry went ahead with a penalty in the first minute. It took some time for Islandmagee to get out of the blocks, but after Murray levelled things at 1-1, they took control of the game. Andy Waide scored a brace to put Island 3-1 up, including a spectaular Beckham-like lob from the half way line. Dunmurry grabbed a consolation in the final seconds. 

29th Nov: ISLANDMAGEE 3-0 WELLINGTON REC.
Islandmagee progressed into the 3rd round of the Intermediate Cup after they eased past Wellington Rec in a derby at Wilbourne Park. Wellington finished the match with 9 men. Island have been handed a home draw against Steel and Son's Cup finalists Ards FC.

22nd Nov: ARDS RANGERS PAY THE PENALTY

ISLANDMAGEE needed extra time, and three Andy Waide penalties to see off the brave challenge of 1A side Ards Rangers in this Irish Cup tie at Drome Park.
Oddly enough, there was another high scoring encounter on the Islanders' last trip, when they lost 5-6 in the league back in May.
It was the travelling Wilbourners who posed the early questions, with Billy Waide breezing through but was forced too wide after rounding the keeper, and thus could only drag his shot against the post.
The home netminder, too, pulled off fine saves to thwart Andy Waide and Michael Moore.
Instead, though, it was Ards who showed the way, taking the lead on 35 minutes through a far post finish, with the visitors' offside appeals failing to impress the referee.
So one-nil down then, despite dominating the opening half, though the boot was on the other foot just after the turnaround, where two fine saves from David Harrison prevented Ards strengthening their grip.
Even Harrison, however, could do nothing as Rangers extended their lead on the hour, their striker doing the needful, after Millar had beaten Stephen Tierney in the challenge.
Island manager Steven Donald's response was to toss on all three substitutes Neil McConnell, Paul Gibb and Ryan Large, at the expense of Thomas Craig, Dee Lough and Simon Moffett., going three at the back.
The Wilbourners thus piled on the pressure, but were making hard work of things, with Andy Phillips nodding an Andy Waide corner against the bar. Then within another two minutes, two more headers from Phillips sailed just over the bar.
It was very much on the cards then when Islandmagee pegged a goal back on 70 minutes; Michael Moore scoring at the second time of asking, after being put through nicely by Andy Waide.
The Islanders, too, forced the tie into extra time on 85 minutes, with Andy Waide scoring from the spot, after Moore had been sent flying whilst trying to round the keeper.
The pendulum seemed to be swinging the Islanders' way only for Ards to again snatch the lead in the first period of extra time.
Just one minute later, however, Islandmagee were level again, with Andy Waide converting his second penalty after a handling offence on the line, for which he Ards player was red carded.
That sparked off a little melee in which Billy Waide and another Ards player were dispatched to the pavilion. Midway through the second session, Islandmagee edged in front for the first time, with Waide completing a penalty hat trick, for another foul on Moore.
A rare feat, three penalties in one game, although some might remember current Newington Rangers manager Stuart Pike completing a hat trick of penalties in a derby tussle at home to Islandmagee in which Islanders Jim Holden, Steven Gilmore and then manager Graham McConnell were sent off by referee Davy Redfern.
Next Saturday, it's back to Wilbourne Park for a tasty Intermediate Cup derby against Wellington Rec; the sides having already met this season at Brookvale Park, where the Millbrookers were 4-1 winners back in August.

Islandmagee; Harrison - Craig (N McConnell), Tierney, Phillips, Lough (Large) - B Waide, Moffett (Gibb), Moore, A Waide - Marks, Murray.

15th Nov: ISLANDMAGEE 3-3 DROMARA VILLAGE
3 goals from the Waide brothers helped Island come back to secure a home draw against the fellow promoted team Dromara Village.

8th Nov: ISLANDMAGEE 3-2 NEWINGTON YC
Goals from Andy Waide, Billy Waide and Peter Marks steered Island to a great home victory over Newington YC, who were previously unbeaten in the league.

1st Nov: PLAIN SAILING IN INTERMEDIATE CUP
Islandmagee progressed to the second round of the Intermediate Cup after an easy victory over 1A side, Sport & Leisure. The home side came out 6-0 winners. The draw for the next round sets up a local derby between Islandmagee and Wellington Rec. to be played at Wilbourne Park on Saturday 29th November.
This followed last week's 4-2 win over Lurgan Town Boys in the Irish Cup. Island only managed to see off the Mid-Ulster side after extra time.
The Irish Cup second round draw is away to Ards Rangers.

31st Oct: ROLLO APPOINTED 2ND TEAM MANAGER
Long standing club servant David Rollo has been appointed as boss of Islandmagee second team. Rollo, who is approaching ten years at the club, has had various positions including captain of the first team and seconds, and more recently second team coach. He takes over with immediate effect, and will manage the division 3B side, along with his assistant Colin, who was previously first team goalkeeping coach.
This follows the shock announcement last week that former boss, John McAllister jnr. was leaving the club to take up a role as coach at Newington Rangers. John was in his sixth year as manager of the seconds, and everyone at the club was disappointed that he brought this successful tenure to an end.

18th Oct: ISLAND LOSE OUT IN BORDER CUP THRILLER
The rescheduled border cup round 3 tie between Islandmagee and Downpatrick went right to the wire at Wilbourne Park. There was a long stoppage very early on in the game when a Downpatrick striker suffered a nasty leg injury. Despite Downpatrick starting the game strongly, after play resumed, Islandmagee took the lead, Peter Marks getting the goal. Downpatrick equalised soon after, as a result of some poor Island defending. Islandmagee lost their way a bit, and conceded two more goals. At 3-1 down Islandmagee started to play again, and Carl Murray got them back in it at 3-2. Just before half time, Murray was provider, crossing for Marks to score at the back post.
At 3-3 at half time, fans had already got their value for money but there was much more to come. Andy Waide missed a penalty for Islandmagee, and Downpatrick had a man sent off for a second bookable offence with twenty minutes left. Island failed to seize upon this advantage and it remained 3-3 at the end of the ninety minutes. Downpatrick took the lead again with a great goal in the first period of extra time. When Island looked like they could have been on their way out, Billy Waide came to the rescue and produced his own spectacular effort to level things at 4-4.
And into penalties it went. Billy Waide scored first for Islandmagee, but the Downpatrick keeper saved from Marks. Downpatrick had scored all 4, while Andy Waide and Lough scored for Islandmagee. At 4-3, Michael Moore stepped up for Island�s final penalty, which the keeper saved well. The shoot-out, the long game and Island�s Border Cup run were over. This was particularly disappointing given the manner in which Island had come back into the game from 3-1 down. Downpatrick go on to play Kilmore Rec in the quarter finals, and we wish them all the best for that. Our good wishes also go out the injured player, and hope for a speedy recovery.
Island are in cup action again next week as they travel to Lurgan in the Irish Cup.

17th Oct: BORDER CUP TIE REVERSED
The Border Cup Round 3 tie between Downpatrick and Islandmagee has been reversed, following the second consecutive call-off of Downpatrick's pitch. The match will now be played at Wilbourne Park Islandmagee. The winners of the tie will play Kilmore Rec in the quarter finals of the competition.

4th Oct: Island Comeback Stuns Dromara
In the match between the two newly promoted sides, Islandmagee came from two goals down to beat Dromara 3-2.

13th Sep: Comber Hit For Six
Islandmagee had a fantastic day at Wilbourne Park, firing six past Comber.

6th Sep: Steel and Sons Cup
Islandmagee progressed into round 4 of the competetion after an understrength team defeated Lisburn Rangers 3-1 at Wilbourne Park. Island will host Ballymoney United on 27th September.

30th Aug: Island Self Destruct Against Downpatrick
Islandmagee well and truly hit the self destruct button, just after conceeding the opening goal at Wilbourne park on saturday. Island had dominated the opening part with chances falling to Marks and McConnell, the Downpatrick keeper pulling off one excellent save in particular. However, what followed was one of the most bizarre and indeed disgraceful episodes ever witnessed at Wilbourne Park when two Island players, were dismissed for fighting with each other, leaving the team fighting an uphill battle with only nine players. The nine who remained, to their credit battled hard and kept the scoreline respectable at 3-1, with Andy Waide scorig the goal from the penalty spot.

23rd Aug: Island progress into round 3 of Steel Cup
For the second time in a week, Islandmagee defeated Holywood, this time at Wilbourne Park and the score, 4-2. Michael Moore got two of the goals on his first game back after suspension while Andy Waide got the other two.

19th Aug: Poor derby/midweek form continues
Midweek number two, local derby number two and Islandmagee made it terrible performance number two. Nothing seemed to go right for the Islanders as they took on Wellington Rec in Millbrook.


16th Aug: VISIT TO HOLYWOOD GOES SWIMMINGLY FOR ISLAND
Islandmagee managed to brave the floods to defeat Holywood 3-1, at least up until the 86th minute that is, when referee Keith Furlonger brought things to a close in the torrential downpours. Goals for Marks, Moffett and McConnell secured the victory for the Islanders.

12th Aug: ISLANDMAGEE 1, BARN UNITED 3
BARN United continue to hold the �Indian sign� over Islandmagee, with a well deserved victory in the midweek derby before one of the biggest attendances Wilbourne Park has witnessed in years.
And it wouldn�t be a real �local ding dong� without a few sending offs, with the Islanders finishing with only eight men, following the dismissal of the Waide Brothers Andy and Billy, along with substitute Craig Ogilvie, while Barn had their skipper Gary McKee redcarded after only 16 minutes.
As you�d expect from a local derby, too, there an air of familiarity, and Island�s starting 11 included no less than 7 ex Barn men in the Waide brothers, David Lough, Wayne Patterson, Stephen Tierney, David Harrison, not to mention manager Steven Donald being an ex Barn boss, along with other ex United men Trevor Gault (who had managed both clubs), Tommy Wallace and Michael Dunn in the dug out. Another one of the ex Barn contingent, Michael Moore had to sit this one out through suspension.
On the opposing bench were two players just signed from Islandmagee during the summer, Marc Kelly and David Kidd, while another summer recruit Dee Wakeham started as left wing back, and fittingly, holding the managerial reigns in the absence of the holidaying Alan Campbell, was one time Islandmagee boss Jim Pherson.
It was a hungrier looking Barn who made the brighter start, with Gary McKee needlessly chopped down just outside the box by Paul Mathers, following neat approach play involving Nicky Sharples and Scotty Irvine. Given Stuart Hilditch�s renown prowess with a stationary ball, conceding free kicks just outside the box can be decidedly risky, as indeed was confirmed with Hilditch rocketing the resultant free kick beyond keeper Harrison into the top right hand corner, to give the visitors a 4th minute lead.
Islandmagee, though, might have bounced right back had Simon Moffett not headed one just over the bar, but that apart, it was Barn who continued to look the livelier, with McKee and Irvine just failing to play in Darren McKinty.
It was McKee�s last real contribution as his match came to a premature end, being brandished a red card on 16 minutes for an attempted head butt on Moffett, who was perhaps relieved at not being cautioned for the initial foul.
After their promising start, being reduced to ten men, with the loss of their influential skipper (sporting a new blond hair do), was just the last thing Barn needed, and the Islanders indeed should have taken advantage on 21 minutes, but Peter Marks mistimed his jump and headed over, following an inch perfect right wing cross by Andy Waide.
The was never any danger, though, of referee Alan Hayes having to dispense with his cards for the night, and three minutes later Island central defender Stephen Tierney was cautioned for chopping down Darren McKinty. This time, however, Hilditch overhit the free kick.
The match, too, was reduced to ten a side on 26 minutes when Andy Waide was redcarded for a petulant off the ball kick at right wing back Raymond Hammond down in the bottom left corner. Worse was to follow just two minutes later for the Islanders when another one of their ex Barn men, Wayne Patterson hobbled off injured with a ruptured groin, an injury which could see him most of the season Craig Ogilvie coming off the bench.
The Wilbourners, too, could easily have been reduced to nine men on 31 minutes though Mr Hayes this time opted for yellow and not red, after Paul Mathers' late late challenge on McKinty. Knowing that there was very much a risk of a second yellow card, manager Donald immediately substituted his far from happy central defender, a wise choice considering he had someone of the calibre of Andy Phillips sitting on the bench.
Barn, nevertheless, were hardly sitting back on their lead, and there could have been a tough call on the referee had Irvine not admirably stayed on his feet, brushing off a couple of challenges after weaving his way into the box.
Mr Hayes, however, did point to the spot on 41 minutes, following a needless handling offence by Barn defender Jordan Armstrong. Left back David Lough was prolific from the spot when playing for Barn last season, but Billy Waide was the man in possession, only to thump the resultant penalty just the wrong side of the left hand post.
Then just before the break, there was more controversy when the home faithful insisted that United netminder Christopher Campbell had handled the ball outside the box. Certainly, it wasn�t easy to see, but from my angle it looked as though at least part of the ball was still on the line, even though the keeper may have been standing just outside.
So one-nil then for Barn at the break, though there was surely a few more twists and turns to come in this particular tale.
Barn went close on 53 minutes, but this time the �Hilditch Hammer� hurtled harmlessly wide, after Irvine had been bundled over just outside the box.
At the other end, Billy Waide might have done better at the far post, following a Lough cross.
On 56 minutes, however, Barn gave themselves some precious breathing space, with Hilditch blasting home the penalty, after Dee Wakeham had been brought down by keeper Harrison. The keeper insisted he had touched the ball, though from the sidelines, though he also bundled his former team mate over and thus it was no surprise to see Mr Hayes pointing to the spot.
Less than a minute later, there ought to have been more misery for the Wilbourners when Billy Waide somehow escaped what looked like an obvious red card, for a blatant elbow on McKinty. Billy, however, didn�t really take advantage of his reprieve, as he talked himself into a booking afterwards, and, now with one yellow under his belt, the �smart money� was certainly on Billy receiving a second yellow.
Meanwhile, Barn almost ended the debate when Harrison appeared to dive too early as Irvine slipped the ball through to Sharples � but managed to recover, with the United frontman scuffing his shot.
The visitors went close again on 65 minutes, when Sharples near post effort was blocked, after a neat link up between Irvine and Hammond.
The Wilbourners, nevertheless, were starting to build up a head of steam, with Billy Waide, lucky to be still on the pitch, almost picking out Moffett at the far post.
Islandmagee, indeed, did peg one back on 69 minutes when Murray crossed for Moffett to head past Campbell.
Barn did their best to respond and Harrison did well to cling onto an up and under, under pressure from McKinty
That apart, it was Donald�s boys who were looking the more threatening, with Moffett drilling one just wide
Then on 73 minutes came the game�s second turning point; Harrison unleashing one of his typical long clearances, but with Campbell remaining on his line, it opened the door for Marks, whose effort was superbly parried by the keeper, only for the loose ball to fall kindly for Murray who lashed it wide of a half empty goal. A goal then, with Barn already on the back foot, and Island just might have came away with all three points.
Then a minute later, Marks, perhaps with more time than he realised, screwed his shot just wide of the right hand upright.
Barn, nonetheless, managed to ride the storm and Island�s cause wasn�t helped by the 84th minute dismissal of Ogilvie, for an off the ball tussle with McKinty. As with McKee�s earlier �head butt� its hard to say just how much contact was made, but surely the intent was there, and Mr Hayes again had no other option.
Considering they were chasing the game, it was surprising that Donald kept a fresh striker in Gary Barkley on the bench until the 85th minute.
IT was all over bar the shouting, too, when Barn added a third two minutes later; Hilditch completing his hat trick from the spot, after substitute Andy Kane run into the box had been illegally ended by Murray.
Not that the excitement was yet over, as Billy Waide was dismissed just a minute from time, picking up his second yellow following an overenthusiastic lunge, leaving the Islanders with only eight men. Billy, though, would have missed the next few matches anyway due to holidays.
Islandmagee � Harrison � Craig (Barkley), Tierney, Mathers (Phillips), Lough � Patterson (Ogilvie), Murray, Moffett, B Waide � Marks, A Waide.
Barn United; Campbell � McKnight, Hilditch, J Armstrong � Hammond, McKinty, Hamilton, G McKee, Wakeham (Kelly) � Sharples, Irvine (Kane).
Referee; Mr Alan Hayes, Belfast.
The match, incidentally, was kindly sponsored by Mr Leslie Thompson.

9th Aug: ISLAND KICK-OFF SEASON WITH 4-3 VICTORY

Islandmagee opened their premier league campaign with a 4-3 home victory over Malachians. New signings Thomas Craig and Dee Lough occupied the two full back positions while Gareth McConnell returned to the club for his second spell in centre midfield. Captain Michael Moore again begins his season on the touchline, serving a suspension from last year.
After scoring over 100 goals last season, much is anticipated of the Islandmagee attacking line this time round, and it was only 11 minutes before they combined to give the opening goal. Peter Marks, with his back to goal headed down a high ball to Billy Waide�s feet, who squared to McConnell. McConnell finding himself in space, shot and scored low to the keeper�s left.
Only 7 minutes later and Island were two ahead. This time McConnell started the move in midfield, finding Billy Waide. He crossed to Marks, who again with his back to goal, chested down for Andy Waide who struck his half volley into the top corner, giving the keeper no chance.
The third goal of the game went to Malachians, on 20 minutes, when poor marking allowed them to tap home, following an indirect freekick for a backpass.
Malachians striker Doonan, headed one just wide of the post, but they drew level in stoppage time of the first half. Mathers tackled well inside the penalty area but scuffed his clearance straight to the opposition who coolly finished past Harrison.
Going into the second half, it always looked like the team to score next would go on to win, and Marks missed a great opportunity to get that goal, as he slide in at the back post, diverting his shot wide across goal. Island did however go 3-2 ahead, Billy Waide dispatching from the penalty spot, after brother Andy was taken down inside the area.
Peter Marks got a fourth goal for Island, which was a very contentious decision from the referee. Marks� shot seemed to be cleared from the goal line by a defender but the referee judged it to be over. Surely though Marks would have received a penalty had it not counted, as he was pulled to the ground as he hit the shot.
In the closing minutes Malachians got a lifeline goal, from a rather fortunate long range deflected shot, but Island managed to hold out and win the game 4-3. Tuesday night sees the visit of local rivals Barn United to Wilbourne Park.

GO TO PHOTO GALLERY FOR PHOTOS OF THE MATCH

Team: Harrison, Craig, Mathers, Tierney, Lough, B. Waide, Ogilvie (Phillips), G. McConnell (Moffet), Patterson (Murray), A. Waide, Marks.


30th July: NEW FIXTURES RELEASED
Islandmagee will begin their 2008/2009 campaign with a home match against Malachians. Following this they will face three derby matches in the next two weeks, in the form of Barn United, Wellington Rec and Nortel. The matches on 16th and 23rd August are subject to change, depending on the Steel and Sons Cup first and second round draws, which will be made early next week. The Border Cup draw threw out a tasty second round clash with Larne Tech Old Boys, which will be played on 27th September. For full details see the fixtures page.

SEASON 2007/2008

15th May: ISLAND LIFT THE CLARENCE CUP
A magnificent display from Islandmagee steered them to a first ever Clarence Cup win and a historic league-cup double, at Wilgar Park, Belfast.
It was an exciting match for the many neutral spectators who watched on in the sunshine, with the first goal coming inside 5 minutes. Dunmurry failed to clear the ball and Patterson sneaked in to poke home from just inside the penalty area.
However, Dunmurry drew level moments later with a dubious penalty given for a handball incident close to the edge of the Island penalty area. At this point the game was frantic with all the play in the middle of the park. Referee Alan Hayes issued several cautions in the early part of the match, leaving quite a few players from each side treading a tightrope for the rest of the match. Island dominated the possession in the first half an hour but Dunmurry had the best of the play before half time, with no real clear cut chances.
Islandmagee emerged a different team in the second half, as they took the game to Dunmurry. They went ahead with an absolute wonder goal from leading goalscorer Andy Waide. He picked the ball up just beyond the half way line and cut inside, unleashing an unsavable effort into the top corner from more than 30 yards.
From here it was plain sailing for the Islanders. Wayne Patterson who had been instrumental all night, and deservedly received the man of the match award, put Island 3-1 in front with his second goal of the game after a well worked passing move.
Andy Waide sealed the victory with another goal from outside the box, this time a free kick from 25 yards into the bottom left corner of the net.
Captain Michael Moore had controlled the midfield, and he was unfortunate not to get a goal after Cairnduff saved when Patterson put him through on goal in the last minute.
So a great all round display from the Islanders saw them come out 4-1 winners, and the defence must be credited for their solidity in preventing any real clear cut Dunmurry chances.
After Wayne Patterson received his man of the match award, the Island players received their winners' medals from NAFL chairman Jim Shaw, followed by captain Michael Moore who lifted the trophy for the first time in the club's history. Afterward he said "it was great doing the double in my first season as captain". Long term supporter and ex-chairman Victor Forsythe commented that in all the years of following Islandmagee, this double winning season has been the best of all. Scenes of the celebrations can be seen on the photo page, or on youtube, accessed through the 'Island view' page.

10th May: CLARENCE CUP FINAL PREVIEW
Islandmagee are looking to complete the second leg of a historic double as they take on Dunmurry Rec this Thursday. The game will be played at Wilgar Park, home of Dundela FC, and of course the venue of Islandmagee�s Border cup success in 1998. In contrast to their good history in the Border Cup, Islandmagee have never actually reached a Clarence Cup Final. However the omens are good for the Islanders, as the past two winners of the competition, East Belfast and Barn United, also both won division 1A in the same year.
Although Island are going into the occasion brimming with confidence on the back of the league triumph, the premier league opposition have naturally been given the tag of favourites. Dunmurry are however missing the services of their leading striker, Ricky Rutherford, who is suspended. They too have their final league game, against Newington YC on Monday night, while Island have the benefit of over a week to rest before the final. That game will decide who takes fourth spot in the premier division.
Dunmurry have won 13 of their 25 games this season, scoring 50 and conceding 34 goals along the way. This is compared to Island�s 88 goals for and 39 against, over 28 games, 20 of which were victories.
On the road to the final Dunmurry have seen off Bangor Swifts, Ford, Dromara, Knockbreda, Shorts and Sirocco Works. Island meanwhile have beaten Grange, Downshire, Larne Tech, Kircubbin, Crumlin United and Crumlin Star. Therefore neither team has faced another Premier League side in the competition thus far.  
Alan Hayes, who refereed Island�s semi-final win over Crumlin Star, will take charge of the match, with kick-off scheduled for 7.00pm.
A supporters� bus will leave Islandmagee FC at 5:15pm, time to be confirmed. To book a seat on the bus, sign the sheet in the bar, or contact Crawford.

6th May: League Campaign End With Biggest Defeat of Season
Islandmagee ended their season in division 1A with a defeat away to Crumlin United, only the fourth league game Island have lost. The 4-0 scoreline was also the heaviest Island have been beaten all year, and was only the second league game in which they failed to score. This all came as no shock to Island fans who are all looking forward to next week's Clarence Cup Final. Fear of picking up injuries or suspensions forced Donald to play a weakened side, which at one point featured up to seven second team players. Veteran keeper Peter Ross was once again in nets, and at the ripe old age of 49, did well to prevent a further goal close to full time.

5th May: Photos
islandmageefc.vze.com's official photographer has been out and about over the past week. Photos are online from the Larne Tech, Abbey Villa and Crumlin Star matches. There are also some good shots of a foggy Wilbourne Park hosting Northern Ireland U16s against Belgium. The Belgium side came out 1-0 winners, in front of a large crowd on bank holiday monday.
To access the photos, click on photo gallery in the left hand navigation bar, and click on the red button 'season 07/08'. This will direct you to the flickr photo hosting site, on which photos can be viewed individually or as a slide show.

3rd May: Late Goal Secures Derby Win For Island
Islandmagee took on Larne Tech Old Boys in the last meeting of the season, and last league derby between the sides for at least another season at a typically windy Antiville. Larne Tech found themselves down to ten men in the first half, after referee Alan Black sent off Rab Brown. It was Islandmagee who took the lead, Billy Waide stepping up to take a penalty, which was saved on the first attempt but scored on the second, after encroachment forced a retake.
Larne Tech fought back and got a fortunate equaliser from a corner, before scoring another to go 2-1 in front.
A virtuoso performance from captain Michael Moore saw him grab a brace, the second coming only minutes from time to give Island the 3-2 victory.

1st May: Last Home Game Ends In Victory For Island
Islandmagee won their last home game of the season 2-1 against Abbey Villa on thursday night. Abbey Villa welcomed the champions onto the pitch with a guard of honour. Island goals came from Billy Waide and Peter Marks.

1st May: Wilbourne hosts Northern Ireland International
On Monday 5th May, the May Day bank holiday, Wilbourne Park will play host to a Northern Ireland Under 16 friendly international. Northern Ireland take
on Belgium after a very successful trip to Finland.  Manager Dessie Curry has described the games as �the perfect opportunity for the players to show how they are developing.�
The match is on May 5th at Islandmagee, kick off 10.30am.

29th Apr: Island Beat Star To Reach Clarence Cup Final
Islandmagee have made it to the final of the Clarence Cup for the first time in their history, after defeating Crumlin Star 1-0 at the Factory Grounds. Andy Waide got the only goal of the game about 15 minutes into the second half. Crumlin Star had earlier been reduced to ten men after a headbutt on Billy Waide. Michael Moore had a golden opportunity to make it 2-0, 20 minutes from time but he cannoned his penalty against the crossbar. Peter Marks who had looked dangerous all night but never got on the scoresheet was fouled for the penalty. This was shortly after he had a goal disallowed.
The cup final could be the final chapter in what has been a fantastic season for Islandmagee, with both teams securing league championships. It will be played on Thursday 15th May at Wilgar Park. More details will follow later.

26th Apr: Island Lose Eleven Goal Thriller To Ards Rangers
It has been well known throughout the season that Islandmagee have been able to score plenty of goals, with the league total now at 83. However this time, five goals away from home wasn't enough to secure victory after a poor defensive performance. Eyes might well have been on the clarence cup semi final on tuesday night, and it was with that in mind that Donald rested captain Michael Moore and goalkeeper Harrison. Second team keeper Peter Ross came in between the sticks.
Nonetheless, Islandmagee had behind them a 19 game unbeaten run and were eager to keep this up, having been crowned champions of 1A on tuesday night. And this showed early on, with the usual attacking power, Island found themselves coasting at 3-0 up. Billy Waide and Peter Marks got the first two from well crafted individual runs into the box. Wayne Patterson provided the build-up to the third before unselfishly passing to Andy Waide to tap home for his 34th of the season.
Ards pulled one back, before Marks got his second to put Island 4-1 up. Just before the break, Ards converted a dubious penalty to make it 4-2.
After half time Islandmagee really lost their way at the back, where they have been convincingly leakproof of late. Lammey was outdone by the pace and trickery of the Ards right winger who continually provided the danger and indeed, to the dismay of the travelling Islandmagee fans, Ards Rangers went 5-4 in front. Islandmagee got level at 5-5, Marks again finding the goal for his 4th hatrick of the season.
Despite chances at both ends, in what was a very open game, it was Ards Rangers who got the winner, keeping up their slim hopes of catching Dromara for second place. Dromara actually drew their game today, meaning that it is now a mathematical certainty that Islandmagee cannot be caught at the top.

22nd Apr: Island Win League With Draw At Dromara
A 0-0 draw away to second placed Dromara, tonight secured Islandmagee the division 1A title with four games left to play. Although technically speaking they still could be caught, Island's superior goal difference means it is almost beyond the realms of possibility, and another point on saturday would make the league a mathematical certainty. It is the first league title won by the Islandmagee first team in exactly 40 years and club secretary Crawford Wilson was delighted, "We've been massive favourites to win the league for some time now and I'm just glad to see we have kept up our consistancy and secured it. It is a credit to the hard work put in by Stephen, his staff and players, and everyone associated with the club. It has been a magnificent season with two league titles and now a Clarence Cup semi final to look forward to."

19th Apr: Islandmagee Seconds Are Champions of Division 3B
Islandmagee seconds today defeated Ford II 4-1 at Wilbourne Park, completing the first half of what they knew was needed to win the league. However, Island's three points became enough to clench the title as challengers Grove United slipped up away to East Belfast. That put Island on 63 points with 1 game left, while Grove can only get a maximum of 62 if they win their two remaining fixtures. Cue the celebrations at Islandmagee. It means back-to-back titles for John McAllister's men who have been promoted 4 times in 5 years. It should also be the first of two league titles on their way to Wilbourne Park within a week, as the firsts will claim the 1A title with 3 more points.

19th Apr: Islandmagee II 4 - 1 Ford II
Islandmagee seconds did what they had to, winning a tough fixture a Wilbourne Park. Top marksman Robert Dunwoody's first goal of the game was his 100th goal for the club, a fantastic achievement at any level. He went on to get his 101st goal, while Andy Hall and Colin Gilmore grabbed the other two. Photos from the game can be seen on the photo gallery.

19th Apr: Newcastle 1 - 1 Islandmagee
Islandmagee's unbeaten record continues as they fought back to earn a one each draw in a tricky fixture away to Newcastle. The county Down side took the lead just after half time, before leading goalscorer Andy Waide levelled things. Islandmagee had chances to win the game towards the end, but were happy to settle for the point. With Dromara drawing 1-1 with Ards Rangers it means that Islandmagee are coming very close to securing the championship. With Islandmagee now on 57 points, and Dromara on 48 with 4 to play, an Island win on tuesday night against Dromara would secure the league. A draw on tuesday night would secure the league in everything but formality as Dromara could only level Island's points total but with a goal difference of 35 less than Island. Either way, following the seconds triumph in 3B, Islandmagee is bracing itself for the first league trophy won by the first team in forty years.
Today's point was enough to secure promotion for Islandmagee, so premier league football will be returning to Wilbourne Park next season.

15th Apr: Island Into Clarence Cup Semi-Final
Islandmagee tonight kept that dream of a league-cup double alive as they came from behind to beat Crumlin United for the second time in 4 days. Crumlin took the league after 3 minutes and held it up until half time. Wayne Patterson levelled for Islandmagee just after the break before right back Neil McConnell got his second goal of the season putting Island in front. Michael Moore missed from the penalty spot but redeemed himself later by scoring to make it 3-1. Another penalty kick, this time taken by Billy Waide was dispatched to give Islandmagee a convincing 4-1 scoreline and send them into the semi-finals of the cup. The draw for the semis has not yet been made, but Island will face one of Dunmurry Rec, Sirrocco Works or Crumlin Star on Tuesday 29th April at a neutral venue.

12th Apr: Islandmagee win 1-0 in Round 1
Islandmagee will face Crumlin United three times between now and the end of the season, and they got off to a good start winning 1-0 in the league match at Wilbourne Park. Andy Waide's solitary goal took his total for the season to 32 and extended Island's unbeaten run to 16 games. Photos of today's game can be seen in the photo gallery.

7th Apr: Photos of Ards Rangers Game
Click here to view a good selection of photos from the 5-0 win, taken by Glenn Kelly.

5th Apr: Island Close in on League Title
Islandmagee took a big step towards securing the division 1A title, as they trounced promotion hopefuls Ards Rangers 5-0 at Wilbourne Park. And with main title rivals Dromara and Abbey Villa both dropping points, Island could realistically win the title in 3 games, if they were to beat Dromara away. That too could be different after the pair play each other on Tuesday night.
Ards Rangers started the game strongly and were giving the Island defence problems. It took several top quality saves from Harrison to keep the scores level. Island though always looked dangerous on the attack, and they broke the deadlock on the half hour. Michael Moore attacked down the left and crossed perfectly for Billy Waide who found time to take the ball down and place his shot across goal and past the keeper, for his fifth goal in three games.
Ards Rangers spurned a great opportunity to equalise just before half time when veteran Nixon headed against the post from 3 yards out, with the goal gaping.
Not for the first time this season, Islandmagee emerged after the break as a completely different side, and from this point on it was one way traffic.
Andy Waide rose well in the goal area to head in Island�s second goal after a good delivery from Billy.
Andy Waide delightfully scored his 31st goal of the season with a well placed free kick from 25 yards, putting Island 3-0 up.
The fourth came from Michael Moore who got a near post touch on Peter Marks� cross to divert it past the keeper.
Moore then doubled his tally and completed the scoring for Islandmagee with an extravagant back flick from 6 yards.
Crumlin United travel to Wilbourne Park next Saturday for the first of three meetings between the clubs in a matter of weeks.

1st Apr: Stalemate
The top of the table clash between Islandmagee and Grove seconds ended in a 0-0 draw. Strong winds made playing conditions difficult in a closely contested match. Both keepers pulled off good saves, while Rollo and Gilmore formed a formidable force at the back for Island.
Photos from the match can be seen in the photo gallery.

31st Mar: Seconds Face Grove in Top of Table Clash
Tuesday 1st April may be April fools day, but there'll be no fooling around at Wilbourne Park as Grove seconds visit for a crucial game which could decide the destination of the 3B title. Islandmagee seconds currently sit 10 points ahead of Grove at the top of the table, but Grove have three games in hand. Should Grove win their games in hand they would be 1 point behind Islandmagee, making tomorrow night's game a must win for them, to keep hopes of winning the league in their own hands. If Islandmagee win, then one win out of their remaining two fixtures would secure the title.
One thing for sure is that the game will be a cracker to watch so get down to Wilbourne Park for a 6:30pm kick-off.

29th Mar: Island Into Last Eight of Clarence Cup
Islandmagee progressed into the quarter finals with a 4-2 victory over 2B outfit, Kircubbin. Billy Waide got on the scoresheet for the third game in a row, this time bagging a hatrick. Captain, Michael Moore completed the scoring with a penalty.
Whilst Islandmagee were in cup action, some of their closest league rivals were in action. Dromara closed the gap to 13 points with a 3-1 win over Grove Utd, while Abbey Villa slipped up, losing 2-1 to Sport and Leisure. The pair play each other in Millisle on tuesday night.

29th Mar: Seconds Secure Promotion to 3A
It may already have looked a foregone conclusion at the top 3B, but today Islandmagee seconds officially secured promotion into 3A, the top flight of reserve team football. This means that since taking over in 2003, manager John McAllister has guided his team to 4 promotions in 5 years. The 3-2 home win against Rosario YC II today confirmed the feat.
Last year was the first year that they came up as Champions (of 3C), now let's hope they can secure the 3B title for back-to-back championships.

23rd Mar: Photos online from Dromara Match
Visit the photo gallery to see photographs taken from the 1-1 draw with Dromara on saturday, including a team photograph.

22nd Mar: Dromara Grab Late Equaliser at Wilbourne
As part of what was termed 'Grand Slam Saturday' in division 1A, first place took on second at Wilbourne Park. With the other big game of the day between Abbey Villa and Larne Tech ending in a draw at Millisle, it was a golden opportunity for Islandmagee to extend their lead over the rest of the pack.
There were a few names missing from the Islandmagee squad, three-time hatrick hero Peter Marks was absent along with midfielders Carl Murray and Simon Moffett. Wayne Patterson started up front with Andy Waide, while Craig Ogilvie came in alongside Moore in central midfield.
It was the islanders who got off to the better start, Moore heading narrowly over in the first minute after a well delivered Billy Waide corner.
Soon after, it was Billy Waide who rose above the village defence to send his looping header onto the crossbar, with keeper Hartley beaten.
Billy Waide however made no mistake with his next effort. A Lammey throw in on the left found Wakeham who beat the defender and calmly cut the ball back to Billy Waide who found enough space to take time and place his shot from 10 yards. The keeper had no chance and Island took a well-deserved 1-0 lead.
Into the second half, and the game was still finely balanced, with the best of the chances falling to Islandmagee. Wayne Patterson had a good chance to extend the lead, before Andy Waide curled a shot just wide of the upright.
As time progressed, Dromara edged their way more into the game, and one could sense a late surge. However the Islandmagee defence coped well with the pressure, Tierney in particular proved to be a rock in the centre defence and Harrison was well in control of any Dromara efforts on goal.
With 93 minutes on the clock, some Island fans would have been forgiven for thinking the points were in the bag, but when Andy Waide was caught in possession wide on the left, Dromara drove forward with pace and grabbed a late equalizer, to the delight of their travelling support.
Given the result in the other big game, a 1-1 draw at Islandmagee turned out to make no difference in the race for the title, and it�s as you were for all four teams involved.
It�s a break from league action next week, as Islandmagee travel to Kircubbin for the fourth round of the Clarence Cup.

20th Mar: Goalscorer's Chart
As Island approach their 100th goal of the season (currently on 98) an updated version of the goalscorer's chart can be found on the player profiles page. With 70 of those goals coming in the league, the first team are the highest scoring team in the amateur league. They are also one of a handful of teams who have scored in every league fixture. Andy Waide currently tops the chart with an outstanding 29 goals, with Michael Moore second on 21 goals.

18th Mar: Fixtures for rest of season
The remaining fixtures for first and second team have been released and can be found on the fixtures page.

15th Mar: Come Back
After a very poor first half display from the league leaders, Islandmagee found themselves 3-0 down at home against Sport and Leisure. Island came out facing a massive challenge and knew that they would need an early goal to have a chance of getting back into the game. Fans began to feel it was just one of those days after the Sport keeper saved a one-on-one situation with Andy Waide. However, 9 minutes into the second period, Island got on the scoresheet with another home goal from Peter Marks, from a Moffett cross. Soon after, Marks was waiting at the back post for number two, but it was the defender who got to Billy Waide's cross first, diverting the ball into his own net. Marks levelled things with his second and then put Island ahead with his hatrick goal. This was Mark's third successive home hatrick.
Harrison made a good save to protect the lead, before Marks turned provider and Andy Waide sealed things, with a 5-3 win to Islandmagee.

19th Jan: Island too strong for Rosario
Islandmagee were back in league action again, this time against Rosario, a side managed by ex-Island manager Gerry Goodall. Islandmagee raised their game considerably from last week's performance and breezed to a 6-2 demolition of the Belfast side. Andy Waide got a hatrick, with the other goals coming from Billy Waide and Moffet. To complete the scoring was a rare goal for centre-half Neil McConnell who headed in from a corner.
The seconds kept up the winning pattern with a good 3-1 win at home against a strengthened Holywood side.

12th Jan: Good form continues into 2008
Islandmagee extended their run of winning matches into 2008 with home victories over Rathfriland and Grange. First up was Rathfriland, a team rooted bottom of division 1A and without a win this season. The away fixture saw Islandmagee put five past them. This time round it was four, with a final result of 4-2.
A slightly understrength Island then took on Grange in the Clarence Cup and came out 3-2 to progress, despite a below average performance.

15th Dec: Island go top with win over rivals
It was a fantastic last performance before Christmas for Islandmagee who took on Knockbreda Parish at Wilbourne Park. The fellow title contenders now managed by former Islandmagee manager Roy Bennett started the day top of division 1A with three more games played. However, a fine display by Islandmagee saw them defeat 'breda by three goals to nil, with club captain Michael Moore getting on the scoresheet. The third goal was especially sublime; hard work from Moore in midfield saw him win back the ball and play an inch perfect lofted pass over the defence into the path of Andy Waide's run. Waide controlled the ball, cut inside beating two defenders and delightfully curled the ball into the top corner of the net.
The seconds also finished the year on a high note, replicating the 3-0 winning scoreline away to Holywood FC II.

20th Sept: Easy win takes Islanders Back On Top
Islandmagee returned to the top of 1A after a comfortable 4-1 win away to 1st Bangor. Wayne Patterson scored his first goal since returning to the club, while on form Moore bagged his 11th and 12th goals of the season. The other goal was scored by Billy Waide. 

Ross, McConnell, Wakeham (Lammey), Mathers, Tierney, Murray, B Waide, Moffett, Moore, Patterson (Lough), Kidd (Kelly)

Islanders complete signing of duo
Islandmagee have re-signed previous players Carl Murray and Wayne Patterson.  Murray was signed from PSNI while Patterson was signed from local rivals Barn.

12th August: Islanders Hammer Knockbreda

Islandmagee began their bid for promotion back to the Premier League with a 4-2 over Knockbreda. First half goals from Kidd, Billy Waide and a brace from Moore had the Islanders cruising at half time. At the start of the second half Islandmagee then had Wakeham sent off for a second yellow card after a late tackle. Shortly after Knockbreda were also reduced to 10 men. Mid-way through the second half 'Breda' managed to pull two goals back. However there was no way back into the game for Knockbreda and Islandmagee could have added three or four more goals before the end but for some good goalkeeping and sloppy finishing from Andy Waide and Robert Dunwoody  prevented them from finding the net again.

Harrison, Lammey, Tierney, McConnell, Wakeham, B Waide (Mahers) , Ogilvie, Moore, Kidd (Gibb), A Waide, Lough (Dunwoody)


SEASON 2006/2007

28 April: Island Seconds Crowned Champions
Islandmagee second team today were crowned champions of the amateur league division 3C. The 3-2 win over main challengers Derriaghy, put them 12 points ahead with only one week of the season remaining. In a season which has been a difficult one at the club, it was ironic that the second team would bring silverware to Wilbourne Park for the first time since 1998, and the first league title since the mid-eighties. A large crowd watched on in beautiful Islandmagee sunshine, as the seconds notched up their twentieth win of the season, taking their goalscoring tally to 78. Almost half of these have been scored by leading marksman Robert Dunwoody, and they will look to extend this total in the final game away to Bryansburn next week.
Manager John McAllister will now have steered his team to promotion through three divisions in four years, a remarkable feat at any level. Congratulations go to John, Craig and the entire squad who battled hard throughout the season and have been justly rewarded in their triumph.

27 April: Internationals at Wilbourne Park

For the third year in succession Wilbourne Park hosted two matches as part of the Ballymena Under 16 International tournament. The first was a group game between Northern Ireland and Israel in which the hosts came out victorious. In fact Northern Ireland reached the final of the competition, losing out to the Republic of Ireland at Ballymena Showgrounds. Israel returned once again to Islandmagee, and were defeated by USA in the third place play-off. As always the Wilbourne surface was in immaculate condition, and impressed the visiting players and officials.

24 March: Islandmagee Relegated From Premier Division

Despite ending the season with a 4-2 home win against Malachians, Islandmagee first team were relegated from the Premier Division. They have been in the premier division for six years, after Graham McConnell�s side gained promotion in 2001. Since his departure in 2004, the club entered a very rocky period, with managers coming and going, and the team struggling but narrowly avoiding relegation on several occasions. Perhaps however it was inevitable that given the poor start under Sammy Smith this would be the year, and despite Stephen Donald�s efforts to complete the great escape, it was. In fact, there was a period when they did turn it round to achieve some good results, but it was too late to mount a serious survival challenge. This promise that saw Islandmagee pick up points while they were doomed to relegation, is perhaps what prompted the board to appoint Stephen as the manager for next season. Hopefully with the right players, he can do what was done the last time the club was relegated, and bounce straight back to the premier division.


10 Feb: Islanders Shock Drumaness

Islandmagee took on Drumaness at Wilbourne Park looking to end their poor run of 9 league games without a win. Islandmagee started the match as the better team and took the lead after 16 minutes. A great pass by Moore found Wakeham on the wing who slide the ball into the feet of Island top scorer Lough who fired into the net from an acute angle. Things got worse for Drumaness just 10 minutes later when they went down to ten men after a Drumaness player kicked out at Grainger off the ball. Grainger dropped to the ground instantly in agony and it was no surprise that the Drumaness player was shown a red card. Grainger had to be stretchered off the field and he was replaced by Kelly. The rest of the half was an even affair with neither side really having any chances.

Drumaness almost equalised straight from the restart following a mistake from Tierney but Cairnduff pulled off a magnificent save to keep Island in front. However this was the only chance Drumaness had and Islandmagee's possession paid off when they added a second on the hour. The goal came from a super move, with some great basic passing in the build up, and Phillips threading the ball to Kelly out on the right wing who controlled brilliantly before looking up and lobbing the Drumaness keeper from 35 yards. Island controlled from then on. Kelly was denied from a tight angle and then Phillips headed against the bar. Island came close again on 70 minutes but Marks hit the post from 5 yards out when it seemed easier to score. Island were applying all the pressure and they sealed the game on 72 minutes when Murray played through new boy Peter Marks who slide into the corner of the net to score a debut goal. Drumaness tempers began to go and a scuffle saw Tierney and Moore pick up bookings however everyone was dismayed at how the Drumaness midfielder stayed on the pitch despite having been the main offender. Just 3 minutes later Tierney received a second yellow card for a late tackle and was sent off.  Drumaness had all the possession at the end but they couldn't create any chances to get back into the game. It was a deserved victory for Islandmagee who travel to Albert Foundry next week.

Cairnduff, Lammey, Tierney, McConnell, Wakeham, Grainger (Kelly), Moore (Baxter), Phillips, Murray (Ogilvie), Lough, Marks




10 Feb: Islandmagee Seconds Unbeaten Run Comes To An End

It wasn't such as good day for Islandmagee Seconds who lost in the league for the first time this season, away to Groomsport seconds. Two goals from Islandmagee's Robert Dunwoody had put the Islanders 2-1 up but Groomsport fought back to win the game 3-2

2 Dec: Missed Chances Cost Island

Islandmagee took on Dunmurry Rec looking to move out of the relegation zone. Islandmagee started well and should have gone in front after 18 minutes when Okunaiya produced some excellent skill down the left wing before crossing to the back post where Moore looked certain to head into the empty net from 5 yards but unbelievably he headed the ball into the ground and it bounced into the keeper's arms. Islandmagee were made to pay for this miss when on 30 minutes the Dunmurry striker hammered in off the underside of the bar from close range to take the lead following some awful Islandmagee defending. Islandmagee had a glorious chance to equalise just 5 minutes later but Lough squandered the one on one by tapping the ball straight at the keeper. Islandmagee had another chance just before half time when Moore was sent through, but he dragged his shot wide.

Islandmagee started the second half very brightly and Okunaiya was a constant threat for Dunmurry. He twice beat the defender before drilling across the goal line but no one was at the back post to tap in. Once again Island were made pay for missing chances and on 54 minutes Dunmurry went two up when a powerful low cross was drilled across the box which Grainger could do nothing about but turn into his own net. On 64 minutes Islandmagee should have been awarded a penalty when Okunaiya again showed his skill before being hacked down inside the box. However the referee bizarrely claimed that the foul had taken place outside the box. Islandmagee came close to scoring on 67 minutes. Okunaiya cut inside and hammered a shot but the Dunmurry goalkeeper managed to just tip the ball over the bar. It just didn't look like it was Islandmagee's day, especially when Okunaiya drilled the ball across the box to the back post where Noel Allen failed to connect from 5 yards. Things got worse for Islandmagee late on when Dunmurry scored a third with a header from close range.
Next Week Islandmagee are at home to Downpatrick in the league.

Islandmagee Team
Cairnduff, McConnell, Phillips (Grainger), Tierney, Wakeham, Kelly (N Allen), Murray, Dean (Hall), Okunaiya, Lough, Moore .

2 Dec: Islandmagee Seconds Win Again

Islandmagee Seconds made it 8 league wins in a row with a 5-0 win over Mossley.  Dunwoody grabbed 3 of the goals, while S Allen and Smith both scored one each to make it a comfortable win for the Islanders.

25 Nov: Islandmagee Pay The Penalty

Islandmagee took on Cliftonville Olympic in the Intermediate Cup looking to progress to the third round. However the Islanders went behind after just 5 minutes when Hall missed a through ball and allowed the Cliftonville striker to hammer into the top corner. Islandmagee came close to equalising on after 27 minutes but Moore's long range free kick cannoned off the cross bar. Just two minutes after this there was a chance at the other end but Cairnduff made an excellent save to deny the low drive.

Islandmagee started the second half very well and it was no surprise when they equalised after 55 minutes. Wakeham's deep cross was knocked down by Murray and landed at the feet of Lough who tapped in from 5 yards. From this moment Islandmagee lifted their game and had chances to win the game. On 75 minutes a defensive error let Murray through but Cliftonville keeper Straney made an unbelievable save to deny his close range effort. With the scores level at full time the match entered extra time however this was a tight affair with no goals and the match went to penalties. With the penalty shoot out level it went to sudden death. Hall missed from the spot, which allowed Cliftonville to score the winning penalty.

Islandmagee Team
Cainduff, Hall, McConnell, Tierney, Wakeham, Kelly, Dean, Murray, N. Allen, Lough (Crockett), Moore

18 Nov: Islanders Unlucky in Derby Defeat

Islandmagee took on Nortel in a derby match at Wilbourne Park looking to extend their unbeaten run of four league games. However the Islanders didn't start well and almost went behind after 3 minutes when ex Island player Ricky Moore was slid through but Hagan made an excellent save to deny him. However from the resulting corner Nortel took the lead. A great delivery fell to Faulkner who found himself totally unmarked at the back post to head into the net. Islandmagee had opportunities to level soon after but both Murray and Lough wasted chances. Islandmagee had another chance on 40 minutes but Lough was denied by a goal line clearance from Island old boy George Lynn after he had chipped Nortel keeper Malone. Nortel almost went two up just before half time when Murray almost turned a cross into his own net but fortunately for Islandmagee the post saved them.

Islandmagee started the second half very well and equalised on 54 minutes through Michael Moore who coincidentally had scored two fabulous goals in the same fixture last season. Moore picked the ball up the on the left touchline and hit a first time lob with the outside of his foot over the top of Nortel keeper Malone and into the far top corner of the net to score an absolute beauty. From this moment on Islandmagee were in control and looked the more likely team to win the game. On 67 minutes skipper Neil McConnell came so close to scoring with a long range shot but Malone managed to just get his fingertips to the ball to the ball to send it by the post. Islandmagee had another chance on 70 minutes when Okunayia played a one-two with Moore who drove the ball into Lough but he shot straight at the keeper. However on 75 minutes Islandmagee were punished for not taking their chances. A sloppy pass by Okunaiya allowed Finn to break right through on goal. Hagan made an unbelievable save to deny him but Ricky Moore tapped in the rebound to put Nortel in front against his old club. Islandmagee heads dropped after this and it sparked Nortel to life again. Nortel sealed the points with 6 minutes left to play when Faulkner drove past Hagan from long range to score his second of the game. Late on Okunaiya's looping corner hit the top of the cross bar with Nortel keeper Malone hitting his head in an attempt to save it. Nortel midfielder McCord caught the ball so that Malone could receive treatment and was bizarrely shown a second yellow card to leave Nortel with ten men. However, it was too late for the Islanders to stage a comeback. 
Next Week Islandmagee are at home to Cliftonville Olympic in the Intermediate Cup. This is a 1.30pm kick off.
Islandmagee Team
Hagan, McConnell, Grainger, Tierney, Wakeham, Kelly, Dean (Ogilvie), Murray (Hall), Okunaiya, Lough (Crockett), Moore

18 Nov: Islandmagee Seconds Maintain Winning Start

Islandmagee seconds continued their 100% start in the league with a 6-1 win over Drumaness Seconds. Robert Dunwoody grabbed four of the goals for the Islanders in a comfortable win.

11 Nov: Derby Points Shared

Islandmagee took on Barn United at Haslett Park looking to make it three straight league wins. It was a very wet and windy day and it was no surprise that the wet conditions played a part in the opening goal. On 16 minutes Billy Waide's powerful freekick bounced up off the wet surface and Hagan could do nothing but parry leaving Andy Waide to tap in to give Barn the lead. Islandmagee came close to equalising in the 24th minute but David Hilditch managed to palm Murray's effort just wide of the post. Islandmagee were having trouble keeping the ball and Barn were dominating. They almost scored another just before the break when Andy Waide drove from long range but Islandmagee keeper Dean Hagan made an excellent diving save to tip over. With Barn in control Islandmagee were glad to hear the half time whistle.

Islandmagee came out a different team and it was them who dominated most of the second half. The Islanders equalised on 65 minutes. Lough slid through Kelly who was brought down inside the box and the referee immediately pointed to the spot. However despite the fact that the defender was the last man he was only shown a yellow card. Captain for the game Michael Moore stepped up to score his 5th goal of the season and his celebration showed just how much it meant for him to score against rivals Barn. Islandmagee continued to create chances as Kelly, Moore and Murray all came close to winning it for Islandmagee and Okunaiya opted to pass when he had a clear shot on goal late on.

Islandmagee Team
Hagan, McConnell, Grainger, Tierney, Wakeham, Okunaiya, Dean, Murray, Kelly (Allen) Lough, Moore. Unused: Crockett

4 Nov: Island Progress In Intermediate Cup

Islandmagee travelled to Dromore Amateurs in the Intermediate Cup looking to continue their winning run.  Islandmagee started the game very strongly and it was no surprise when Michael Moore who was playing a midfield role volleyed into the net from the edge of the box after just 6 minutes. Islandmagee were dominating and on 13 minutes Robert Dunwoody hammered into the roof of the net to put them two up. Islandmagee stroked the ball around with ease and were in total control and they added a third on 31 minutes when Lough slid the ball into the net from a tight angle to score his eighth goal of the season. On 37 minutes Islandmagee scored a fourth. Wakeham's long-range shot hit the bar and fell to Crockett who headed in. By now the game looked as good as over and Islandmagee continued to miss chances. However, with the last kick of the half a rare attack from Dromore saw them slot the ball past Hagan to score with their first shot of the game.

Islandmagee seemed to take the foot of the gas in the second half. They lost their ability to pass and stopped working and creating chances. Therefore it was no surprise when Dromore pulled another goal back on 65 minutes. Dromore were pushing forward to try and get back into the game and on 80 minutes Hagan was very nearly chipped from 35 yards. With Dromore going forward they were vulnerable on the counter attack and Islandmagee should have got another late on but Moore blazed over from 5 yards.
Next week Islandmagee travel to local rivals Barn United in the league.

Islan
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