Saints seconds fill plate

Saints seconds fill plate

15 May 2019

SAINTFIELD Ladies seconds held their nerve to win a thrilling showdown with Lisnagarvey fourths at the Playball Pavilion, Stormont, on Saturday morning.

After beating a number of higher-ranked teams on their way to the decider, the Saints were ready to produce yet another giantkilling act against a fancied Lisnagarvey side.

The Saints knew they would be up against it as underdogs, but they were determined to enjoy the experience and give their all and that is exactly what they did. 

Saintfield stepped onto the pitch with determination and in high spirits. Starting strongly, Chloe Stewart and Hannah McKee drove Saints down the right hand side from the off, immediately putting pressure on Lisnagarvey.

However, the Lisnagarvey defence stood strong and proved difficult to get past. Saintfield’s determination continued with Cara Murray using skill to drive the team forward towards the goal. 

Lisnagarvey reacted quickly, switching play and putting the Saintfield defence under pressure. Despite Adele Burtney and Hannah Lambe working tirelessly in the circle, a short corner saw Lisnagarvey take a 1-0 lead before half-time. 

The Saints regrouped at half-time and after a motivational talk from coach Nicola Clements, came back fighting in the second half. 

Saintfield dominated play from the whistle, putting serious pressure on the Lisnagarvey defence. 

Sancha Harper and Kirsty Harshaw worked hard down the centre of the pitch, passing the ball into their forwards, winning a number of short corners, but none saw the back of the net. 

Saints finally got their opportunity when a foul against Murray was rewarded with a penalty flick. Murray stepped up to the flick the ball calmly and confidently past the Lisnagarvey ‘keeper to level things up.

It was all to play now for and both teams wanted the win badly. Lisnagarvey put on the pressure in the last five minutes of the game, but the Saints’ defence stood strong, clearing all danger. 

A 1-1 draw at full time meant it was straight to penalty runs and strikes from Andrea Keers, Kirsty Harshaw and Chloe Stewart ensured a 3-2 win on penalties.

Saintfield Ladies would like to thank the Ulster Hockey Union for organising the competition, Lisnagarvey fourths for a great match, our dedicated coaches Nicola, Julie and Bertie for their hard work ensuring the team was prepared.

Thanks also to all the players who have been training week in week out, despite the season being over and finally, thank you to all of the supporters who turned out for the match. 

The seconds season is not over yet, as the girls face play off matches this Saturday against South Antrim and Annadale, hoping for promotion. 

The matches will take place at Belfast Harelquins from 1.30pm, again all support is welcome and greatly appreciated. Finally, we would like to congratulate the girls on their success in the Junior Plate and wish them the best of luck for the play off games this Saturday.