The Girls’ hockey Senior plate quarter final between Wallace High School First XI and Coleraine High was a very exciting match ,played at Dromore Hockey Club. The Wallace girls sustained strong pressure from a talented and determined Coleraine team, however excellent defensive work from Becky Davidson, Nicky Hussey and Ciara Brown along with Ashleigh Harrison who, at sweeper kept a cool head throughout, ensured a difficult passage for the visitors into the Wallace circle.
Steady play and confidence rising, the Wallace girls took control in the mid field, with Claire McFaul curtailing the classy centre midfield from Coleraine and the brilliant pace of Sophie McNeice along with the skill of Hannah Keery gradually breaking down the opposition’s defence.
A superb corner strike from Laura Johnston saw the Wallace girls go into the lead after just 11 minutes of play. The game was end to end and nailbiting to watch. However, determined attacking play and great skill and pace shown by the Wallace wingers, Alison Price and Laura Rodgers kept the Coleraine girls on their toes. Sustained pressure in the last five minutes from the visitors was not to be rewarded on the day and the Wallace girls went forward to the semi-final against BRA with confidence.
This young team has developed throughout the season and deserve full credit for their determination and sustained effort. They produced a sparkling and skillful performance to win the match 1-0.
Indeed, the semi final itself was another exciting affair. The Wallace girls had a very shaky start with BRA pressurising from the whistle. Sweeper Ashleigh Harrison was injured in the opening moments and unfortunately was unable to play the rest of the match. Amy McComish stepped in and took a very steady rein of the defence. The Wallace girls soon settled down to play another terrific game of hockey.
A goal from a penalty corner taken by Captain Laura Johnston was superbly executed and turned out to be the only goal of the semi final. A tough BRA team pushed the Wallace girls to their limits, however strong defensive play by Nicky Hussey, Ciara Brown and Becky Davidson withheld the pressure and fed the midfield and forwards some excellent passes.
The skill and pace of the Wallace girls in midfield and forward positions gave the opposition plenty to think about! Hannah Keery once again showed amazing skill and determination containing a very tough opponent. Well done to the whole team and good luck in the Final against Cookstown High School.
Last modified: March 15, 2005
