Ballymoney down Elks

It was the first time Ulster Hockey have held the final mid week and the organisers will have been pleased with the size of the crowd that turned out at Lisnagarvey.

Ballymoney looked very strong from the start and won their first penalty corner in the second minute. A strong shot from Katie Mullan was well saved by the Elk’s keeper Susie Kells.

Mullan was hard to keep out of the game and she put Ballymoney in front after 13 minutes when she pushed the ball home from about ten yards after a lovely pass from Jessica Lynch.

Ballymoney were controlling the game at this stage with Julie Nelson showing all her skills in midfield.

The Elks had to rely on quick breakaways and Jayne Clarke showed good speed on a couple of occasions.

But Ballymoney were in no mood to surrender their control and Jill Kennedy hit home in the 18th minute after another inch perfect pass from Lynch.

There was no score in the second half. Alice Garrad impressed for Elks and Dawn Axon added pace to the side when she was brought on from the subs bench.

Ballymoney always seemed to have the game under control. Bridget Cleland was tireless in mid field and defenders Susie Martin and Lauren Barr looked capable of soaking up any pressure that came their way.

Ballymoney: Jenna Holmes, Sammy-Jo Greer, Gayle Adams, Julie Nelson, Susie Martin, Angie Huey, Katie Mullan, Bridget Cleland, Aine Kearney, Lauren Barr, Nikki Parke, Catherine Knipe, Sue Ruddock, Jessica Lynch, Emma Lynch, Jill Kennedy. Manager: Liz Lamont.

Ulster Elks: Susie Kells, Natalie Wise, Sarah Ralph, Alice Garrad, Jemma McVeigh, Louise Wright, Ciara Magee, Paula Lee, Rachel King, Rebecca Davidson, Danielle Wilson, Lynn Brown, Jayne Clarke, Dawn Axon, Kirstie Lammey, Megan McCaughan. Manager: Calvin Ralph. Coach: Ricky Lee.