Banbridge U16’s A team win in Shield

Having already secured a win against Bangor in the league, Banbridge had confidence prior to taking the court.

A number of key players were missing including Captain Charley Brush and Alana Kerr, so the team knew it wasn’t going to easy.

The game started well for Banbridge with an immediate interception from Courtney Savage who had stepped up to play GD.

The ball was then effortlessly played down into the Banbridge circle where Jessica Thompson made no mistakes.

Great partnership work from C Zara Sloan and WA Clara Cromie ensured that the ball was fed accurately into the circle, with Jessica Thompson and Gemma Hassan on top form. End of the first quarter Banbridge 9 – 4 Bangor.

Bangor started much stronger in the 2nd quarter and made it difficult for Banbridge to get the ball into the circle. With determination Banbridge did edge further ahead but it wasn’t long before Bangor fought back. Banbridge 13 – 7 Bangor.

GS Gemma Hassan was on fighting form not allowing her GK to dictate her positioning in the circle. Defending hard on all the backline passes she also put Bangor under pressure resulting in Banbridge interceptions and subsequent turnovers.

Emily Wright who has been consistently good this season didn’t allow anything to distract her from the game and remained focused, working fantastically with GK Gabrielle Feenan and GD Courtney Savage. End of the 3rd quarter Banbridge 19 – 9 Bangor.

Fatigue was major factor in the last quarter for both teams. The fast paced match impacted both teams, especially Banbridge who made no substitutions. Banbridge still managed to win the quarter 2-0 and overall 21 – 10.