Down seconds, ravaged by cry-offs before the start of play, struggled in this Junior 4 clash in Doagh.

The locals were forced to select six third eleven players, with James Cunningham, emerging with the most credit.

Parkview, whose senior side had no game last weekend, selected a 15-strong panel, with regular first eleven 'keeper, Richard Nesbitt, turning out for the club's second string.

Down got off to the worst possible start and found themselves two goals in arrears, thanks to some crazy defending which allowed Parkview to take a firm grip on the game.

To their credit, Down tried to force their way back into the match, through Colin Gibson, who worked tirelessly in the middle of the park.

Parkview did create a number of half chances, but they failed to increase their advantage due to missed opportunities and some stubborn defending.

It wasn't until the second half that the visitors were able to find the back of the net.

The goal came from a short corner which Colin Gibson pushed out to his brother David. He pushed the ball back to Colin and as he drove towards the goal, he cleverly drew the 'keeper before setting up Willie Price who drove the ball into the net.

The goal provided some inspiration for the locals but they couldn't produce an equaliser which would have been a terrific achievement given the weakened team they were forced to field.

This weekend, it's Instonians fourths at home and two points is an absolute necessity if Down are to make a late bid for one of the two promotion spots up for grabs.