Defeat on the road for Ladies Seconds

The game began with Bann losing possession and playing defensive hockey from early in the game, however keeper Rebekah Hillis, making her debut for the seconds, showed skill and composure beyond her years in protecting the Bann goal.

The defensive unit of Kate Cunningham, Jayne Scott, Rebecca Dale and Jessica Hassan responsed well to the pressure and began to take control of the game.

However, Bann couldn’t hold on till half time and Ballymoney were awarded a short corner.

Confusion in the circle resulted in a penalty stroke being awarded and Ballymoney were clinical in taking this opportunity to grasp the lead.

Half time ended 1-0 to Ballymoney.

Bann were determined to go out in full force in the second half with Melissa Whan moving back into midfield.

Rebecca Huey and Katie Uprichard worked extremely hard to get the ball towards the Bann forwards this gave Amy Gray a one on one with the goalkeeper but she was unlucky not to slip it past the Ballymoney keeper.

Ballymoney retaliated which ended them with another short corner, where they scored their second goal.

Some excellent movement around the Bann backline moved the ball from the left hand side to the right, with the ball travelling up the line getting passed into the circle were Sarah Anderson was waiting to convert Bann’s first goal.

This made Ballymoney wary of Banbridge’s counter attacks.

Ballymoney were a well organised and practiced team and Bann were unfortunate t0 concede a further two goals.

The game ended 4-1 to Ballymoney.

Many thanks to Punam McGookin for umpiring and sponsor Gardencare.