Ruby Donaldson secures first win for ladies fourths

North Down Ladies fourths travelled last Saturday to Antrim Forum to take on Randalstown thirds.

After an unfortunate two weeks of defeats North Down were eager to secure a win. The Comber girls dominated the first quarter with sharp passes from Amy McMullan to Elsa McCalum who ran the ball down the right to find Laura McCaw and Ruby Donaldson. Their strikes on goal were well saved by Randalstown’s goal keeper.

After a strong first quarter from North Down, Randalstown came back fighting. The visiting defence of Maxine Taylor, Fiona Ellis and Rebecca Brown made some great interceptions and tackles to keep them out of the circle.  However, Randalstown made a quick break into the circle and won themselves a penalty stroke which was saved by keeper Linda Marshall keeping the score 0-0 at half time.

The Comber girls came back fighting in the third quarter with North Downs midfielders Staci Maxwell and Sara Mooreland who both made some great interceptions and tackles to break down the Randalstown forwards’ attacks.

The last fifteen minutes of the game were nail biting for the visitors who were more than eager to secure the win. Sweeper Rebecca Nield played a fantastic ball up the right which was well picked up by Elsa McCalum who found Ruby Donaldson close in to put North Down 1-0 ahead with minutes to spare. Randalstown came back fighting however North Down’s defence were quick to break down the play and they held out for a good away win.

Burch Autos Player of the Match was Elsa McCalum