Banbridge see off Pheonix to score vital away win

Having already been defeated by Phoenix by one goal earlier in the season and with a number of players unavailable Banbridge knew they had to up their game to secure a win.

Things didn’t start well for Banbridge going 2-0 down within the opening few minutes of the game after a break in their first centre pass by the home team.

Banbridge however fought back bringing the score back to 2-2 after breaking the Phoenix centre pass. Banbridge continued to pressurise in what was a very slow paced 1st quarter and edged ahead at the end of the quarter with a three goal lead – Banbridge 11 – 8 Phoenix.

The second quarter continued at a slow pace which worked to the advantage of Banbridge. GK Christine Cartmill, playing up from the Seconds had some brilliant interceptions in the circle and with an amazing stretch made it difficult for Phoenix to utilise any opportunities in their shooting circle.

Phoenix started the third quarter determined to narrow the goal difference upsetting the attacking play of Banbridge at every occasion. Banbridge however increased their work rate and maintained their strong goal difference – Banbridge 30–25 Phoenix.

Going into the last quarter Banbridge knew they had to maintain possession and score from their own centre pass to ensure a victory over the home side.

The quarter started off positive for Banbridge with a number of breaks in the Phoenix centre pass giving Banbridge an ever increasing goal difference.

Banbridge however at times became complacent and unforced errors resulted in Phoenix adding to their score.

With the clocking ticking away Banbridge were still ahead and steadily worked the ball into the shooting circle were there were no mistake in sinking the ball into the net. Final Score Banbridge 37–32 Phonenix.

Well done to everyone on Saturday especially Christine Cartmill who was playing up from the Seconds and Joanne Kerr who was playing out of position in C.

Player of the match – Joanne Kerr

Team – GK Christine Cartmill, GD Amanda Johnston, WD Debbie Evans, C Joanne Kerr, WA Lynn Donaldson, GA Sarah Porter, GS Paula McBride