E’CORTHY HOCKEY
Before the restrictions placed on sporting events were imposed, the ladies’ first eleven were looking forward to a potential second double in two seasons.
Last week’s edition saw a few brief lines on the team’s 2-0 win over Division 5 outfit Avoca; today we have the full report.
It goes without saying that we urge all club members and supporters to follow medical advice from verified sources, act responsibly and keep safe.
Enniscorthy’s ladies’ first eleven travelled to Avoca’s home venue at Newpark School in Blackrock to battle it out for a place in the Division 5/6 Cup final - and the dream of a second double in two years is very much alive.
With Enniscorthy choosing to play into the strong spring sun for the firsthalf, Division 5 side Avoca got the game off to a strong start, holding onto possession and attacking with intent, putting the defence under immense pressure.
Avoca came close when a loose ball threatened McGinty’s goal, but it was soon cleared out of the visitors’ circle, giving Enniscorthy time to regroup and get organised.
Despite the hosts’ promising chance, the Slaneysiders struck first, with Leah Kidd setting up Niamh Rochford for a textbook goal, beating two defenders and the goalkeeper before slipping it to Rochford who finished off a fine move into an open goal. It left Enniscorthy one up at the end of the first quarter.
The second quarter saw opportunities for both sides, with Enniscorthy winning three penalty corners, all kept at bay by Avoca’s defenders.
The hosts continued to attack down the right-hand side of the pitch and were awarded two penalty corners, within minutes of each other, but were forced out by Enniscorthy’s defence.
Enniscorthy sealed the win when Leah Kidd once again turned provider, this time for Wickham to finish with a flick over the ’keeper’s stick in the final quarter.
The game finished 2-0 to the visiting team, and now Enniscorthy await Division 5 high-flyers Rathgar in the final.
Squad: Norah McGinty, Leah Chapman, Laura Smith, Anna Flood, Ciara Kelly, Niamh Ogilvie, Aoife Mahon, May Wickham, Leah Kidd, Isobel Walsh, Rebecca Ogilvie, Niamh Rochford, Hannah Graham, Martha Dunne, Julie Watchorn.