Stalemate for Bann Ladies Thirds after battling display

Bann Ladies Thirds drew 0-0 with Knock Seconds at Banbridge Academy on Saturday afternoon.

Bann were fighting to stay out of the relegation zone whilst Knock were attempting to rise out of it and fielded a far stronger team than the one which Bann had beaten 2-0 earlier in the season.

Knock had the first real shot on goal when a ball deflected high into the circle was turned into a stunning mid air shot but was palmed away by keeper Louise Beckett.

Gaye Campbell had a sold game at sweeper dealing with in particular two strong, skilful Knock forwards along with her back row defence which rotated between Naomi Haugh, Claire Liggett, Jo-Anne Lyttle, Jayne Scott and Sarah Dale who all put in tackle after tackle to deny Knock chances as they tried to penetrate.

Bann had the best of the play however throughout the game.

The Bann midfield and forwards creating a number of chances throughout the game.

Sarah Gamble controlled the midfield spreading the ball effectively to starting mid-fielders Hanna Thompson and Elli Robinson, she also made several important interceptions and had a shot on goal which was saved by the keeper.

Caitlyn Lyness impressed on the right- midfield with several powerful crosses into the circle but unfortunately forwards Jessica Faulkner, Punam McGookin and Ashleigh Mitchell just couldn’t connect.

Ashleigh had an opportunity to put in Bann in front when centre Punam slipped a cross to her at the near post but the ball went agonisingly wide of the goal.

Similarly following some strong passing play upfront Jessica managed to get a reverse shot away through a crowded circle which went wide of the near post.

Despite a valiant attempt the Bann girls could not convert the chances created and the goal remained in deadlock by the final whistle.