The women’s 4ths took on Trinity in Mount Temple on Saturday morning. With some last minute availability issues, they were grateful for the assistance of Karen Upton and Louise Hare, making up a strong 11. Trinity went into the game second in the league, but neither this, nor the incessant rain, deterred the 4ths, whose harrying and tight marking disrupted their every attack from the start.
Overall the teams were evenly matched in the first half, but Clontarf were unlucky to concede a short corner 20 minutes in, which Trinity promptly put away. An injury shortly before half-time meant that player-coach Ciara had to take to the field. Clontarf went into the break 0-down and with no subs left.
Not disheartened, however, the team took to the pitch with renewed vigour and determination, putting Trinity under pressure in their circle and winning short corners. It wasn’t long before captain Triona Bannerman buried one to bring the teams level. Trinity came back strongly, and another well executed short corner saw them go 2-1 up mid-way through the second-half.
Clontarf raised their game in the latter part of the game. When a period of smooth passing play brought the ball into the circle, Louise Hare was on hand on the far post to pick up the deflection from a shot, drawing Clontarf level again: 2-2. Not content with the draw, the indomitable 4ths continued to drive forwards, until an impressive run down the left wing resulted in a well-taken individual goal – a second for Louise. Final score 3-2.
Match: Clontarf Ladies 4s vs Trinity Home, 20/01/2018
Final Score: 3-2
Written by: Emer Nowlan