News: Blues dig in for point

Island Gardens 3 - Mill Street Blues 3

MATT HARDY hit a hat-trick as Mill Street Blues fought back to draw 3-3 against Island Gardens.

The Blues skipper was in imperious form in front of goal and almost snatched a dramatic victory for his side, but his shot cannoned off the post, Simon Perry missing with the rebound.

Island Gardens set the pace early on with their nimble-footed forwards causing the shambolic Blues rearguard problems. 

It was not long before the levee broke and the Gardens took the lead, leaving keeper Chris De Kock with no chance. 

The Matt Hardy Show then began as the Blues skipper took it upon himself to haul his side back into contention, making no mistake from close range after the ball broke to him.

Island Gardens pressed for another and the Blues defence rolled out the red carpet to goal, allowing Gardens in for a cheap goal.

To counteract their defensive deficiencies Mill Street resorted to some heavy-handed tactics - and Andy Mason was lucky to stay on the field after a pair of crunching tackles.

If the first half was characterised by ill-discipline, then the second half was all about tension. Midfield star Joe Cooke was winded after a heavy challenge forcing de Kock outfield - manager Nick Pearce taking his place between the sticks.

The South African's muscular aggression greatly improved Mill Street's goal threat and a period of stalemate was eventually ended by a penalty from Hardy.

An Island Gardens foot in the area, gave Hardy the a chance from the spot, and he excelled, sending the keeper the wrong way. 

Dave Jameson and Tom Hope came on to add some experience and finesse to the side, but even this substitution could not prevent Gardens taking the lead once again.

Pearce was left stranded and the Gardens celebrated as if they had won the game - and it appeared as if they had.

But Matt Hardy once again drew from within and equalised with a fine strike - cue pandemonium from the bench. 

The smiles proved to be short-lived after Pearce threw an outrageous ball and conceded a priceless indirect free-kick. His blushes were saved though, as the ball was blazed over. 

And it almost seemed as if the impossible would happen and the Blues would take all three points - however the post and Perry both intervened to confirm a draw between the sides.