Newry Olympic Ladies 2s 0-0 (0-1 Run-Ins) Ballymena Ladies 5s

In a thrilling and closely contested hockey match on Saturday 25th January, the Newry Olympic Ladies 2s clashed with Ballymena Ladies 5s in a home cup tie played at Markethill High School.

The match began with high energy from both teams, displaying great defensive skills and swift counter-attacks. The Olympic girls tried to take the lead in the 2nd minute with an impressive reverse hit on goal by their Captain, Laverne Inns, but the shot was well saved by the Ballymena keeper. Throughout the first half both teams created opportunities with impressive one-two skills to beat the opposing players. Ballymena responded with a corner just before the half-time whistle, but failed to score.

The second half was even more intense, with both teams creating multiple scoring opportunities. Diane McMinn-Johnston and Naomi Dickson fired multiple shots at the Ballymena goalie who defied and defended all attempts! However, it was Newry that nearly managed to break the deadlock with a final corner in the 15th minute. Ballymena defended fiercely following a fast injection from Emma McCullough and the game ended nil all, which meant run-ins to decide the winner.

The final moments of the match saw attackers from both teams trying to score past the opposition goalkeeper in one-on-one run-ins. It was Ballymena who came out on top scoring once to claim the victory.

It was a well-fought match, showcasing the skills and determination of both sides. Newry wish Ballymena all the best in the next round of the Junior League Shield.

The Player of the Match award went to Abbey Moffett, the Olympic Ladies 2nds goalkeeper.

Newry Olympic Ladies 2s

Abbey Moffett (GK), Laverne Inns (Capt), Chrissie McAuley, Rebekah McFarland, Katie McFarland, Jodie Freeman, Caragh McGaffin, Sarah Knight, Emma McCullough, Jessica McCullough, Stacey Kidd, Jenna McWilliams, Alison Benson, Naomi Dickson, Diane McMinn-Johnson, Sarah Irwin