Cookstown Ladies continue good run of form

COOKSTOWN travelled to Omagh on Saturday with the aim of getting their second win in a row after Christmas. Although sitting at the bottom of the league, Omagh would put up a good fight and push Cookstown for 70 minutes.

Cookstown started off driving at the Omagh defence, with C. Brown pushing deep into the right of the circle. The ladies drove forward as a team with Cookstown playing their passing game and linking well between midfield and forwards. Omagh were able to make a few breaks into the Cookstown circle, however keeper B. Williamson was able to quickly deal with any hazardous balls. The ladies continued to push ahead determined to get a goal in the first half however they were unable to convert their short corner opportunities.

Cookstown were unlucky not to have a stroke awarded at the end of the first half when it appeared that the ball hit an Omagh foot on the line. Unfortunately the decision did not go their way but as half time loomed, Cookstown used their frustration to continue to hassle the Omagh defence. Chances by E. Walker and L. Johnston failed to find the back of the net. Finishing 0-0 at half time, Cookstown knew that they had to find a goal in the second half.

After half time, Cookstown continued to pressurise Omagh. The ladies were linking their passes were excellent play from R. Brown and L. Gillespie. Any pressures on the Cookstown defence were quickly dealt with by R. Campbell, G. Brown and J. Richardson staying solid and controlled at the back. R. Smyth, in right back was able to easily break down play for the Omagh left winger, leaving Omagh annoyed with their lack of attacking options

As the second half continued on, R. Brown’s determination and control in the circle led to a number of short corner chances. A slip from L. McAleece to the right saw R. Brown’s shot saved by the Omagh keeper. E. Walker’s rebound forced the keeper to make another save but Walker was able to get another shot on the reverse and slot the ball into the back of the net. Cookstown were ecstatic that their hard work had paid off but knew that Omagh would not give up.

It was end to end action in the last few minutes with Omagh winning a short corner just on the final whistle. This was major pressure for the Cookstown defence but they were able to break down the play and not allow Omagh to convert their chance.

This was a great win for Cookstown and the ladies were delighted with their New Year start. Next week they face Priorians at home at 4pm. Although sitting second from bottom, Priorians will be a tough game and Cookstown know the encounter is always a fight to the end. Hopefully their current form will continue and they will get another valuable three points.

Team: B. Williamson, G. Brown (VC) , R. Smyth, R. Campbell, J. Richardson, C. Brown, R. Brown, L. Gillespie, L. Johnston, L. McAleece (Captain), E. Walker.