Coleraine edged out by Grosvenor

Coleraine captain and birthday girl Anne Hempsey almost got Coleraine off to a dream start in the first minute with a tremendous run and cross into the circle from which the resulting shot from Alison Nicholl was well saved.

Hempsey took matters into her own hands after twelve minutes, running at pace across the Grosvenor circle and scoring with an exquisitely executed reverse stick shot.

Unfortunately Coleraine could not consolidate their lead. A collision in mid-field between two Coleraine players allowed a swift Grosvenor counterattack to penetrate the Coleraine defence and make the score 1-1. Moments later Grosvenor were 2-1 up capitalising on a rebound off the Coleraine keeper.

Coleraine were grateful for goalkeeper Michelle Budina’s fine reactions in the remainder of the first half, with one triple save being especially memorable.

Reinvigorated by some much needed half-time refreshment Coleraine wing Anne Hempsey produced a trademark blistering run down the right wing. She drilled in a cross which was met by Nicholl, whose touch somehow stayed out of the goal.

Unfortunately Coleraine could not maintain the momentum as the more experienced Grosvenor team regained control. A well worked Grosvenor penalty corner mid way during the second half made the final score Coleraine 1 Grosvenor 3.

In defeat special mention must go to Alice McGill who rolled back the years in the centre of defence and the young Cara Ferguson who would undoubtedly still be running now had the final whistle not gone.