Coleraine go out despite second half comeback

Following an extended Christmas break, due to weather conditions, the Coleraine team had not played together for five weeks.

Subsequently, from the start Coleraine found it hard to find their stride and the home team put pressure on their defence. Goalkeeper, Michelle Budina made some good saves and with strong hit outs from Alison Caldwell, the Coleraine forwards did have some early chances.

However, Coleraine’s lack of practice allowed Ards to capitalise on the away team’s mistakes and Ards scored twice within ten minutes.

Coleraine stepped up their game for the last five minutes of the half, winning a penalty corner which they were unfortunate not to convert.

The second half looked more promising for Coleraine with the team coming out strongly and launching good attacks on the Ards defence.

Coleraine’s defence of Sarah Gilchrist, Alison Caldwell, Leah Watton and Alex Balmer worked well together and provided the midfield and forwards with opportunities on the Ards goal.

Coleraine won two more penalty corners and were unlucky not to score but pulled one back when centre forward Alison Nicholls effort rebounded to Anne Hempsey who fired home at the post.

Despite a number of efforts on the Ards goal the home side held on to go through to round two.

Co-Captain, Anne Hempsey, said: “Although we lost, the second half showed some positive performances.

“We were creating numerous chances which we hadn’t been able to do pre-Christmas.

“Things are starting to look promising for us now and with some tactical training before our first league match of this year we should be able to make a more positive impact.”

Coleraine play Greenisland at UUC this Saturday.