Carrick’s stars of the future shine brightly at Lisnagarvey

The club’s Junior Section Under-11 girls performed brilliantly under the guidance of 1st XI players Amy Cross and Julie Oliver at Lisnagarvey on Sunday.

Carrick’s youngsters produced a series of superb displays, delivering three wins, four draws, and only two defeats throughout the afternoon’s proceedings.

In the opening round, Carrick defeated Tulleyvallen, drew with both Ards and Lisnagarvey, and lost only to Ballymoney. This strong start took them through into the Plate Competition where the opposition became considerably more intense.

In the Plate, Carrick produced two excellent wins against strong teams from Knock and NI Civil Service, drew with both Saintfield and Cookstown, and again lost only once - this time against Ulster Elks.

These performances earned the girls second place in their group, only narrowly missing a place in the finals.

During the afternoon, Carrick’s goals were scored by Rachel Cushley (two), Olivia Beattie, Katie Loughins, Ellie Mearns, and Daisy Johnston.

After the tournament, Carrick coach Amy Cross spoke warmly about her bright young charges: “All round, this was a fantastic performance from a brilliant bunch of girls,” she said.

“They should all be proud of themselves both individually and as a team. They gave their very best and that’s all we in Carrick Ladies would ever ask for.

“It’s been a privilege coaching these young girls this year and I can’t wait to see what they will all bring to their club in the future both at junior and senior level,” she added.

Carrick Under-11 squad: Amy Alderdice (captain), Olivia Beattie, Ella Crawford, Rachel Cushley, Daisy Johnston, Katie Loughins, Vanessa McAlister, Ellie Mearns, Holly Morrison, Chelsea Thompson.

Senior results: Carrickfergus 1 Grosvenor 3 (Senior 2); Carrickfergus II 0 Grosvenor III 3 (Junior 4).