North Down ladies 5s secure cup victory against Larne 4s

The match began with a sharp Larne side attempting to establish pressure, pushing play into the North Down half. However, this early momentum was short-lived as North Down 5s soon seized control, quickly driving the attack deep into Larne’s territory.

The relentless pressure soon paid off when North Down won their first short corner. A powerful initial strike from Kathryn Rogers was saved by the Larne keeper, but Hannah McBratney demonstrated excellent quick reactions, pouncing on the rebound to flick the ball over the line and put the home team ahead in the first quarter (1-0).

The hard work continued into the second quarter, resulting in another short corner opportunity. Annalise Burnside injected the ball perfectly to Kathryn, who executed a strong, well-placed strike that banged off the backboard. This clinical finish doubled the lead, sending North Down into halftime with a comfortable 2-0 advantage.

The second half was marked by a tenacious battle as both teams continued to exchange attacks in each others halves. North Down’s Erin Gamble used her electric pace and brilliant stick work to weave in and around the opposition defence, leaving the Larne team trailing. Although there were some further passes placed into the circle the home team just couldn’t quite connect to earn a third goal.

Crucially, North Down’s defence remained impenetrable. Larne pushed hard and won several penalty corners in their attempt to claw back the score, but North Down’s defence line held firm, making smart decisions and consistently clearing the ball out of danger.

North Down 5s held on for a decisive win, securing their place in the next round of the Junior League Cup.

Final score ND 2-0 Larne

PoM Erin Gamble

Huge thanks to Sophie Stewart for umpiring and to Anna Bennett for managing our bench.