Bangor's search for a first league win of the season goes on after a 3-1 defeat away to Limavady United at the Limavady Showgrounds. A hat-trick from Jamie McGonigle inside the first 23 minutes decided the contest, with Tiernan Mulvenna's second-half reply proving only a consolation.
McGonigle struck early, finding the net after just three minutes. He doubled the lead eight minutes later with a 25-yard free-kick, and completed his treble with another set-piece from similar range midway through the first half. Bangor, who had conceded 16 goals in their opening seven games, were left with a mountain to climb.
Lee Feeney's side improved after the break. Oisin Devlin saw an effort crash off the crossbar, and Tiernan Mulvenna was quickest to react, slotting home the rebound in the 71st minute to give Bangor hope. They pressed for a route back into the game, with Philip Lowry making a vital block to deny Alfie Mitchell from close range.
Limavady were reduced to ten men when Stephen Lowry was sent off with five minutes remaining, but the hosts, known as the Roesiders, held on to secure their second consecutive victory. Bangor manager Lee Feeney said the damage was done in a difficult first-half performance from his team. His opposite number, Paul Owens, praised McGonigle's display, describing the forward as having real star quality.
The result leaves Bangor 11th in the Premiership table with just two points from their first seven matches. Their recent form reads LDLDL, with the latest setback coming against a Limavady side now up to ninth.
Attention now turns to a daunting home fixture against Linfield on December 11. Linfield currently sit second in the table, presenting another tough challenge for Feeney's men as they look to finally get off the mark.
More detail at bbc.com
