Ballymoney salvage a point after being two goals down at home to Randalstown

RANDALSTOWN 2

On 25th January Ballymoney 1st XI faced a strong Randalstown team. The ‘Money girls made a slow start to the match conceding two consecutive penalty corners in the opening minutes.

The second penalty corner was converted by a shot from the top of the circle giving Randalstown a 1-0 lead.

Ballymoney had the chance to equalise with two penalty corners of their own but both were well cleared.

However Money struggled to keep possession and conceded a second goal from a deflected penalty corner.

Ballymoney had a few chances including a reverse stick shot from Katherine Minnihan which went just wide, leaving the score 2-0 at the break. Randalstown started strongly in the second half looking to add to their lead but Kate McKane pulled off a great save to prevent money from going further behind.

This was the final wake up call that Ballymoney needed and they began to sustain pressure, winning several corners with Julie Nelsons’ shot on the 20th minute bringing Ballymoney back into the match. The game became stretched with both sides creating chances. Ballymoney equalised as Jess Lynch won a penalty flick scored by Nikki Parke. With the score 2-2 it was a tense finish but both sides failed to find the winning goal

3rd XI v Ulster Elks

Ballymoney set off to play Ulster Elks for a 1pm pushback. Although Ulster Elks are at the top of the table this did not deter Ballymoney.

Ballymoney started off strong taking the game to the Elks. In the first 5 minutes the midfield sent the ball through the centre which was met by Ballymoney attack and it was successfully flicked into the goal and they took the lead. Elks continued to persevere and their efforts paid off when they equalised. At half time the score remained 1 all.

Both teams came out fighting. Ballymoney were unfortunate to concede a penalty corner. Elks took this to their advantage and scored. Despite the hail both teams were determined. There was some great play shown by both teams as they each had several attempts on goal. Elks converted one of their chances and the score was 3-1. Ballymoney responded to this with some passing round the back, and sending the ball up to the centre forward who then struck the ball beyond the goalies reach.

With 6 minutes left Ballymoney were eager to try and equalise, however hopes were deflated when Elks managed to make a break and scored their fourth goal.