Our ladies travelled to Annaghdown this evening to take on Corrib Celtic in their 2nd league outing of the season. A quick glance at the brief histories of both teams was an example of stark contrast. Corrib Celtic, the aristocrats of ladies soccer (together with Corrib Rangers) over the past number of years taking on a strange mix of ladies who are just back in the swing of things after a few years break and whose devil may care attitude will surely bring positivity and enjoyment for our ladies.
A minutes silence preceded the game for the late Hugh McCaffrey, RIP, Dublin, father to ladies keeper Orla McCaffrey whose funeral took place late last week. Corrib Celtic dominated this one from the first whistle as they attacked in waves putting our ladies under pressure from the word go. At some stages, Colemanstown had to bring back Niamh Raftery, Shauna Ward & Orlaith Hannon to assist the four ladies in our rearguard: Laura Parker, Kate Kennedy, Aoife Donohue & Ciara Lally. Within 5 mins Niamh Raftery averted a certain goal with some top class defending. The hosts opened their account on 15mins when a cross into the box was finished by their unmarked striker leaving Theresa Loughnane with no chance whatsoever. Theresa Loughnane had to be alert 7mins later to keep out a powerful header from Corrib Celtic. Colemanstown were somewhat lucky to get to half time just a goal down but were thankful to their vigilant keeper.
The 2nd half was only 10mins old when Celtic ensured a tough evening in the sunshine for our ladies when they capitalised on a poor kick out to steer two goals clear. Shauna Ward was on target with a free kick but the hosts custodian saved well. Catherine Burke had a good chance towards the end as she broke with the ball, skipped by a few players but somehow the keeper got her foot to the ball to keep out her low drive destined for the goal. Right at the death, Corrib Celtic turned the screw with a 3rd goal as they broke on the counter and with a super touch, finished well. It was a tough game against a big physical outfit but one can only learn from these kinda games and I’m sure these ladies will rise again for their next outing.
Thanks to Philip Dee for managing the team until the arrival of Alicia Flannery.
Squad: Theresa Loughnane, Laura Parker, Kate Kennedy, Aoife Donohue, Ciara Lally, Niamh Raftery, Shauna Ward, Niamh Flannery, Orlaith Hannon, Mary Walsh, Catherine Burke, Amy Kenny, Niamh Nolan, Lisa Kenny.