Down High deliver just when it matters

Down High deliver just when it matters

THERE were wild celebrations at Comber Leisure Centre last Wednesday after Down High’s second XI captured the McDowell Plate.

The final whistle brought an eruption of cheers and an unforgettable pitch from Down High’s fantastic band of supporters.

The match started with both teams determined to win. Down High girls piled on the pressure early on and what followed was a flowing first half with beautiful passes between Caragh Dunlop, Jordan Patterson and Brittany Hogan.

Down High had some great chances in a scoreless first half, but Ruth Steenson and Jill Stephens made some excellent tackles and passes to the front players to ensure that their team had the lion’s share of possession.

Both teams were encouraged to up their game during the half-time team talks. BRA came out stronger at the start of the second half and dominated play for the first ten minutes.

This put pressure on the Down High back line and some impressive clearances were made by sweeper Dianne McBride and backs Lauren Cranston, Erin Gabbie and Katie Marshall.

Goalkeeper Caitlin Thompson was forced to make some close saves and thanks to impressive teamwork from the back line the score remained 0-0.

Down High pressed upfield again where Lisa Burrows narrowly missed an opportunity to score. Brilliant play from Lisa, Ellen Dunlop and Brittany Hogan resulted in more shots saved by the BRA goalie who managed to keep the score at 0-0 as the full-time whistle blew.

The dreaded extra time loomed with a ‘silver goal’ at stake. After a quick team talk the girls were back on the pitch for another 10 minutes of extra time, with all players feeling the pressure, but more determined than ever to win.

Down High coaches Miss Sam Hill and Stephen Hayes were watching nervously from the sidelines, along with players Jessica Johnston, Alysha Thompson, Jordan Patterson and Mary Milligan.

From the restart whistle Down High turned over possession and dominated the first period of extra time.

The only goal of the game came from Brittany Hogan, who skilfully collected the ball, rounded the keeper and calmly slotted home.

The team’s elation was also reflected with the resounding cheers from the Down High merry band of supporters. There was only 2 minutes of the half remaining and Down High continued to press and Lisa Burrows narrowly failed to make it 2-0.

The half time whistle sounded and because it was a ‘silver goal’ it was the end of an amazing match which Down High deservedly won.

Down High School II 1

Belfast Royal Academy II 0

McDOWELL PLATE FINAL