Oxford Sunnyside vs Bangor

Burns's penalty before half-time was the pivotal moment. Oxford Sunnyside had led and looked organised, but once Bangor drew level, the momentum shifted decisively. The Seasiders controlled the second period, with Morgan's goal effectively breaking the hosts' resistance — and Boyd's treble putting the result beyond any doubt.

Jay Boyd — The match-winner. His second-half hat-trick turned a competitive friendly into a rout. Three sharply taken finishes.

Mick Morgan — Continued his impressive pre-season form. He scored in the Spectator and Chronicle Cup win over Ards on 16 July and added another here. His goal made it 2-1 and broke Oxford Sunnyside's resolve.

Liam Burns — Calm from the spot to equalise at a crucial moment before half-time, steadying Bangor after the early setback.

Bangor's 5-1 win reflects a gulf in class between a top-flight NIFL Premiership side and a third-tier opponent — but the scoreline flatters the dominance. Oxford Sunnyside led early and were competitive until the penalty. The second half was one-way traffic, with Bangor's superior fitness and quality showing as the game wore on. Boyd's hat-trick — all three goals coming late — suggests the Seasiders' depth told once the hosts tired.

For Bangor, this is a third win in four pre-season outings (2-0 vs Ards, 2-1 vs Moyola Park, 2-5 vs Queen's University) since 11 July. The defensive solidity shown against Ards gave way to a more open game here, but the attacking output continues to build. Next up is a double-header on Saturday 25 July — split squads travelling to Comber Rec (2pm) and Dundela (3pm). The real business begins on 9 August, when Bangor open their Boyle Sports Premiership campaign away at Larne.

Oxford Sunnyside will continue their own pre-season preparations ahead of the 2026/27 NIFL Premier Intermediate League season, which kicks off in August.

A routine pre-season run-out for Bangor, who did what a Premiership side should against lower-league opposition once they found their rhythm. Boyd's hat-trick is the headline, but the early wobble — conceding first — is something Feeney will want to address before the Larne opener. For Oxford Sunnyside, the scoreline is steeper than they deserved for the first 40 minutes, but the fitness gap told in the end.