Dramatic penalty stroke win for Ladies

SOUTH Antrim Ladies Seconds moved into the quarter finals of the Minor Plate last Saturday after winning the penalty flick competition against the PSNI at the end of a keenly contested match.

South started the game keen to continue in winning ways after a fine win against Ballymena the previous week.

The South forwards created some good attacking play with Claire Louise White outpacing the PSNI defence only to be denied by strong defending from the PSNI sweeper.

In what was an entertaining game for the home crowd with plenty of goal mouth action on either side the PSNI also created a number of chances but were also denied by the young South Antrim keeper, Catherine Growcott.

Continuing to demonstrate excellent form Catherine again kept the South Ladies in the game by saving a strong shot ball destined for the back of the net.

South again responded with some fine play in midfield from the tireless Danielle Heasley and Alana Richardson combining well with Emma Tweedie who put continued pressure on the PSNI defence.

A half time team talk by coach Emma Kay pressed the ladies to convert their attacking play into goals. Although a few short corners were won South were unable to take the opportunity with the South forwards pressing the PSNI defence. Laura McConnell worked hard on the left wing to create some chances and although Carly NIblock continued to work hard and press the PSNI defence the match moved into extra time.

The PSNI continued to push forward to have something to show for their efforts but some strong defending from Catherine Michaeledes and Louise Coyle ensured that South still had a chance to claim the match at the end of extra time.

Proving she is a keeper with a bright future Catherine Growcott made three saves from penalty flicks to keep the home crowd entertained and claim the player of the match spot and give the ladies another opportunity to progress further in the competition. Many thanks to George Redpath for umpiring.

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