North Down Edged Out by Randalstown
North Down Ladies 1st XI faced a challenging trip on Saturday afternoon as they travelled to play Randalstown at Antrim Forum. Despite a determined and disciplined display, North Down were edged out 2–0 by a strong home side who capitalised on their chances.
From the outset, North Down showed good organisation and defensive structure, absorbing early pressure from Randalstown’s attacking line. Jenna Pliauga, Rachael Murphy, Caitlin Taylor and Caitlin Adair worked tirelessly to break down play and protect their circle, with strong communication and commitment across the pitch.
Midfielders linked well to relieve pressure and looked for counterattacking opportunities, testing Randalstown’s defensive shape throughout the first half.
North Down were unfortunate to fall behind in the first quarter from a well-worked short corner routine, Randalstown taking their opportunity with a precise deflection into the net.
Despite the setback, North Down continued to compete, closing down space and forcing the home side to work hard for possession. Goalkeeper and defenders combined effectively to clear a number of threatening entries and set plays, keeping the scoreline tight heading into the halftime break.
In the second half, North Down increased their attacking intent, pressing higher and looking to find gaps in behind the Randalstown defence. The forwards and midfielders enjoyed spells of good possession and forced several turnovers, but the final touch in front of goal proved elusive. Sophie Hoey had countless dangerous shots on goal but the Randalstown keepers reactions were too quick.
Randalstown doubled their lead in the last quarter following an unfortunate penalty corner against North Down.
While the result didn’t go North Down’s way, the performance showed encouraging signs of structure, resilience, and growing cohesion within the squad. The team will take plenty of positives from this encounter and look to build on them in their next league outing at home on Saturday against Instonians