Late Comeback Sees North Down 1XI Share the Points

This weekend, the 1XI took on South Antrim at Home in Comber. Judging by the season so far, it was due to be a tightly fought match. A strong warm up and well led team talk from coach Robbie McMinn, the whistle blew and we were off. 

North Down started with a good defensive game in each line, denying some well rehearsed play from the away team. Communication was strong and energy matched South Antrim’s. 

In the 12th minute of the first quarter, a glorious green card was granted to Scarlett Simpson within North Down’s defensive quarter of the pitch. 

With North Down down to 10 players, South Antrim took advantage and managed to get a goal past from a straight strike at the top edge of the circle. Following this, they utilised the advantage further to put a second behind North Down’s defence with a funky deflection in the circle. 

In the second quarter North Down stepped up their pace, bringing the fight and their want back into the game. Denying our oppositions opportunities, Megan Murray and Sophie Leckie linked up well in the centre of the pitch. Chances were created through attacking penalty corners, but with no goals to show for this enthusiasm. The score remained North Down 0-2 South Antrim. 

Going into the second half, following an inspiring team talk to keep reaching and to push ourselves and each other, North Down brought the game to a new level. Creating openings across the pitch, from strong defence of Caitlin Taylor at Right Back, feeding the ball well into the midline and beyond. Superb saves to be noted for Anna Park’s debut game for the 1XI. South Antrim were scared, and they were right to be. Caitlin Taylor dribbled the ball from outside the attacking 25 and delivered a beautifully paced, lifted ball into Connie Magee who got a touch on the ball in front of her player, and as the keeper watched on gracefully, we were brought to 1-2. North Down experienced another period of 10 players following a gorgeous green card being awarded onto Connie Magee for a delightful tackle. And yet, we held firm.

Into the final quarter of the game, and as the energy of South Antrim depleted, North Down’s grew stronger, with huge support from the sidelines to aid! An incredible play of attack brought our goal scoring Connie Magee 1v1 with a defender in the circle, before being tripped by her player and North Down awarded a stroke. Captain Rachael Murphy stepped up to the plate, dragging the ball into mid left net, and equal we were again with South Antrim, 2-2. 

mmense attacking and defending games were played as North Down showed the grit and determination to hold for the point. Particularly from Gabby Scates, stepping up her game to deny the away team any chances down the centre of the pitch. The whole team worked hard in the final few minutes of the game to defend in our 25, and as the whistle blew for full time, both teams left the pitch with their heads high, following a great and even match with a reflective scoreline of 2-2. 

A huge shoutout is required to all the support out at Enler today, including in the dugout with Jenna Pliauga and Caitlyn Adair. A massive thanks also goes to Robbie McMinn and Aaron Mills for their ongoing support and encouragement through the highs and lows. 

Onwards and Upwards we go!