3pm 7 March 2026
Northern Ireland Football League, Premier Intermediate League
Strabane Athletic 2 Moyola Park 1 (att 170)
The main reason for a day trip to Northern Ireland was to visit to Strabane Athletic, who after winning promotion have this season joined the Northern Ireland Football League's third tier.
An imminent restructure means they'll have to secure a top four finish to remain an NIFL club next season, which would see them promoted to an expanded second tier Championship division.
The remaining 10 Premier Intermediate League teams, to be joined by two newcomers, will form the top flight of a new National Conference League. Two more Conference divisions will be added from 2027/28.
All that meant that this was an important win for Strabane, and a surprising one as they came from behind to beat league leaders Moyola Park.
The goals were all in the first half. The visitors went ahead after 22 minutes from a free kick that the home keeper should have kept out. But Strabane were level just five minutes later, and got their winner shortly before half time.
Moyola Park should safely make the top four, and remain most likely to win the title. But this defeat, coupled with Newry City winning, means they now lead the table only on goal difference.
Strabane Athletic are based at Melvin Park Arena. It's a good facility, with a pair of 3G pitches as well as the main stadium, but it is a little underwhelming for spectators.
The pitch, which is grass, is separated from the spectator area by a six lane athletics track, and beyond that an old cinder track encircles the playing area. As a result action feels distant.
Spectators are also restricted to one side, which is terraced with half-a-dozen steps. The centre sections are covered and equipped with seats. Despite the venue's limitations the club does offer food and hot drinks, from a table set up near the entrance.
Comments
Post a Comment