Mixed fortunes for Dalriada hockey teams

The strong Ballyclare side put Dalriada’s defence under a lot of pressure particularly through gaining a number of short corners where they conceded two goals in the first half.

Unfortunately Dalriada let in another goal which was taken from the top of the circle in the first half, leaving the score 3-0 at half time.

After a tactful discussion from coach Mrs Cleland, the Dalriada girls went out stronger and were prepared for skills that the Ballyclare side would bring.

Dalriada midfielders, Sara Jamison and Jill Leslie worked well together transferring the ball up the pitch to Sophie Rollins who with skilful stickwork had a few shots on goal.

Unfortunately even though Dalriada were now making much stronger tackles, Ballyclare gained another penalty corner from which they scored.

Despite the poor weather conditions, the Dalriada girls played to the final whistle. The team would like to thank their coach Mrs Cleland and Nikki Parke for umpiring.

There was more hockey action this week, this time at home when a match was played between the Dalriada Year 9 B team and a Year 9 team from Ballyclare High. Ballyclare won with a score of 2-0.

Unfortunately in the first half there were two injuries for Dalriada, Ella Best (left midfield) and Sophie McAfee who were replaced by Lucy McFetridge and Lauren Arlow.

There was one goal scored which was by Ballyclare in each half. Hollie Scott and Zara Carmichael played well for Dalriada, making some good tackles and bring the ball out wide to avoid the Ballyclare players.

There were also some great saves made by goalkeeper Olivia McAleese. The team would like to thank Miss Wharry for coaching and umpiring the game.

On the previous Wednesday Dalriada U13B Hockey team travelled to Limavady High School and the match was played on the pitch behind the High School.

The weather was cold but thankfully dry which allowed the teams to focus well on the game.

Both teams fought hard with plenty of attempts on goal and missed penalty corners from both sides.

The match was played well and enjoyed by both teams. For Dalriada, Ella Best (Left midfield) was very good at getting the ball up the pitch then passing to Zahra Carmichael (captain) who then took a shot at a goal. Unfortunately none of the shots were rewarded with a goal.

The match lasted approximately 15-20 minutes each half and the teams were well matched.

The game ended in a 0-0 draw which was a fair reflection on the two teams.

Two players Amy Woodall and Rebecca Parkhill injured themselves after falling, but bravely played on.

Captain Zahra Carmichael was pleased with her teams effort, especially Sophie Fox (sweeper) who defended well keeping Limavady from scoring, Dalraida were all disappointed not to have come away as winners on this occasion.

The team would like to thank Miss Wharry for coaching and umpiring at the match.