Girls remain upbeat despite defeat

Methodist College...2

Foyle College Second XI played Methodist College Belfast in the third Round of the Second XI McDowell Cup on Saturday at St Columb’s Park.

Foyle lost the toss but promptly asserted their dominance on the game after quickly regaining possession in the midfield.

A fast break out of the midfield ended in Tory Lapsley firing a strong shot at goal for the home side only to see it ricochet off the post.

The Foyle girls were unable to capitalise on this early pressure but continued to set the pace in the opening quarter. Strong midfield play from Kelly McClintock, Tara Mackey and Laura Dougherty provided the forwards with plenty of ball in the first half. The forward line of Tory Lapsley, Lauren Huey and Sarah Willis worked tirelessly but were unable to find the final touch into goal after some excellent defensive work form the Methody back line.

A defensive error from the home side just before half time gave Methody an opportunity to take the lead and they duly took their chance against the run of play.

In the second half, Foyle again took control of the game but were frustrated in their attacking efforts. Midway through the half Methody scored a second goal to give them a cushion and to leave Foyle chasing the game.

The young Foyle side never gave up in their efforts to get back on level terms but could just not find the final touch into goal. Tara Scott made some excellent attacks down the right side in the second half but to no avail.

Foyle came close from a number of penalty corners but it just wasn’t to be their day. Whilst bitterly disappointed at the final scoreline, the team and coaching staff took heart from an excellent performance.

Foyle were definitely the stronger side who with further experience will gain the composure to win encounters such as this.

The girls would like to thank the vociferous support on the side lines as it definitely helped them raise their standard of play.

The team have one more game before the Christmas break and will look forward to returning to action in the New Year when they hope to achieve a good finish in the Derry and Antrim League.

Foyle College II: Ellen Callaghan (capt). Tessa Crawford, Aimee Doherty, Jessica Tinney, Ashleigh Simpson, Tara Mackey, Kelly McClintock, Laura Dougherty, Sarah Willis, Tara Scott, Lauren Huey, Tory Lapsley, Lucy Young, Anna Kilgore, Jenna Mackey. Rachele Gordon, Amber Smyth.