RESULT 2 – 0
The Republic of Ireland squad came into this match oozing in confidence after beating the Scottish and Welsh sides to gain 6 points in the competition.
The N. Ireland squad was the youngest side in the competition and was no playing for pride.
The game kicked off and within two minutes the Republic of Ireland side were 1 nil up. The sun was low in the sky and a N. Ireland defender lost sight of the ball looking into the sun, as the ball went over her head and took a bounce before Rebecca Kearney (highest goal scorer in the competition), lobbed it over the head of the N. Ireland goalkeeper, it was a great goal.
The N. Ireland team did not give up winning the ball at every opportunity unfortunately they could not punish the Republic of Ireland for their mistakes. Five minutes before the end of the 1st half the Republic of Ireland side were awarded a free kick about 35 yards out. The free kick was struck in the direction of the N. Ireland net, the goalkeeper caught the ball and as she fell towards the ground, she managed to keep the ball from crossing the line however a Republic of Ireland player was able to kick it into the back of the net. The N. Ireland players were angry as the linesman signalled to the referee that it was a goal. Republic of Ireland 2, N. Ireland 0.
The N. Ireland team came out all guns blazing in the 2nd half, dominating possession in every area of the field. There were shots hit by Lauren Wade (Bertie Peacocks) as the N. Ireland side tried to push for a goal. Anna Finnaghan (Donegal Celtic) played a teasing ball through the Republic of Ireland’s defence for Simone Magill (Mid Ulster Ladies) to run onto.
As Simone went to shoot a Republic of Ireland defender managed to get back and force the ball around the post and out for a corner.
The N. Ireland side could not gain any advantage with their possession.
The final whistle blew resulting in the Republic of Ireland winning 2 goals to 0.
Although N. Ireland were beaten this was their best game in the competition and it was a performance of shear heart and passion.
Player of the Match – Cathy Graham (Fermanagh Mallards)
Report by Sharlene Rainey
