Magnificent Ferguson goal seals dramatic win for Cooley ladies

COOLEY Kickhams U16 Ladies opened their league season with a dramatic last minute victory against Glen Emmets in Tullyallen.by 3-9 to 2-9.

It was Dayna Ferguson who turned the game in Cooley’s favour when she slotted home from 5 yards out in the last seconds of the game following a fantastic pass from Hannah Kirwan.

ooley had started the game well with four quick points from Ciara Quinn, Alice Ferguson and two from Hannah Kirwan, and with a back six of Meghan McGlynn, Aine McDonald, Aoife Ferguson, Ciara Donnelly, Trinity Larkin and Laura O’Shaughnessy all playing well Cooley looked set to dominate.

But, to their credit, Glen Emmets fought back with two quick goals. Cooley responded through great attacking play by Kirsten Murray, Blaithin Malone and Laoise McElroy and were rewarded with fine scores from Rebecca Woods, Alice Ferguson and the in-form Hannah Kirwan. However, this was not enough to prevent Glen Emmets leading by 2-2 to 0-7 at half-time.

The first class entertainment continued in the second half with Holly Maguire, Roisin McDaid and substitutes Maryann Loughran and Holly Davidson being particularly effective for Cooley. Early on, Glen Emmets pushed further ahead but a jinking run and goal from Kirwan levelled matters only for the home team to edge ahead with 4 quick points.

While two fine points from Ciara Quinn reduced the deficit, it took a fantastic run and shot from Kristana Keenan to give Cooley a one point lead with only seconds on the clock. However, there was still time for Glen Emmet’s to level matters, before Dayna Ferguson had the final say in what was a pulsating encounter from start to finish.

Huge credit should go to all the Cooley players but particular mention should be made of Leah Magee, Aideen Rice, Dayan Ferguson, Kristana Keenan and the dynamic Laoise McElroy who brought huge energy and commitment to the team despite playing above their age grade. A great start to the season!