Defeat for Wakehurst in first game at new home

Having ground-shared at Tobermore since the start of the season, while work on the new ground was completed, Wakehurst have now fully begun their three-year ground-share with Moyola Park.

Ian Gregg’s men welcomed Dundela for their first competitive match on the 3G pitch although they didn’t record the result they were looking for, losing 2-1.

Shortly after kick-off Stevie Mellon latched onto a through ball, rounded the keeper and passed towards the net but Wakehurst were denied the early lead as Dundela cleared off the line.

On the 11th minute a well-worked counter attack, again involving Mellon, seen Conor Gregg in one on one situation, which he couldn’t manage to finish.

Wakehurst were having a strong first half thanks to the counter attack and the breakthrough came 23 minutes in. Gavin Burnside collected a ball over the top and he made no mistake slotting home the opener.

Another chance for Burnside came 28 minutes in as he squeezed between the Dundela defence but this time his shot was saved.

Dundela got the equaliser in the second half at 56 minutes. A cross from the left was met by Paul Davies and even though his strike was blocked the referee deemed the ball had made it over the line.

Dundela then gained the advantage as probing attack resulted in a penalty for the away side. Craig McCracken stepped up to lash home the spot kick off the crossbar.

In 70th minute Wakehurst had a claim for their own penalty as Conor Gregg was obstructed but the referee gave a free kick just outside the box.

Gregg was again involved in penalty shout as the Dundela keeper came to smother the ball but didn’t make it as convincing as he would have liked.

Dundela were able to hold on to the lead and return home with the three points on this occasion.