1st XI Hockey Report

The 1st XI hockey training got underway in early September and having lost five players, including the goal-keeper, from the previous year’s squad the work was going to be tough. However the large turnout of girls for the team was really encouraging. By the start of october the final squad was selected for the first match.

Ballymoney at home was the first match of the season. From the whistle the girls knew this was going to be tough as they settled into their positions. Chelsie Kealey, an under 14 from last year worked tirelessly in defence, linking well with Natasha Blair breaking down any attacks. While newcomer Laura Hutchinson in goals made some excellent saves, maintaining a clean sheet.

The second half was more organised and the limavady girls were very unlucky not to open the scoring when Natasha surged forward into the opponent’s circle only to see her final shot go wide of the post. The final result was a draw.

For the next match the team travelled to Coleraine College, where Stephaine Blair played her usual captain’s game, dominating in the centre midfield and setting up many goal scoring opportunities. The final score was three goals to one. A very competitive and skillful game of hockey.

Limavady were due to travel to Dunluce, but this match was cancelled and after several attempts to re-schedule the game, Dunluce yet again did not fillful the fixture and we were awarded the points.

The final game was against ballycastle on astro-turf. The girls really enjoyed this game; however they had a goal dis-allowed. Stephaine and Natasta in the centre of the pitch controlled the match and showed some skilful hockey creating chances, but the final score was nil all.

A big congratulation to the 1st XI squad who finished runners-up in this year schools’ league. The girls continued with their training sessions each week and are looking forward to next season.

Team: Laura Hutchinson, Laura Craig, Aimee Kealey, Natasha Blair, Nikki Cairns, Katherine Smyth, Krystle Canning, Niamh McConway, Sarah Connell, Stephaine Blair, Chelsie Kealey, Heather Scott, Megan Reid, Sophie Rathfield and Chelsie Douglas.

Results :                   V Ballymoney   (h)  0 – 0

V  coleraine       (a) 3 – 1

V dunluce          (a) w/o

V ballycastle   (a) 0 – o

1st XI Captain:                      Stephaine Blair

1st XI Goal Scorers:             Heather Scott

Chelsey Douglas

Sarah Connell

Players of the season:         Stephaine Blair & Chelsie Kealey

U14 XI Captain:                    Lauren Gleeson

Player of the season:           Rachael Gleeson