HOCKEY REVIEW: Holders Elks hit Corinthians for six in Senior Cup

The tie was a one-sided affair with Corinthians firmly camped in their own half for the majority, but it wasn’t until the 20-minute mark that the deadlock was broken when Laura McAlpine popped up unmarked at the back post for the simplest of tap-ins from a Jordan Page cross.

Six minutes later the lead was doubled with a carbon copy effort; this time Shirley McCay providing for Kirstie Lammey to score from close range.

Jessica McMaster added the third before half-time notching up her fourth strike in as many games for the Elks.

The second half opened as the first ended. Megan Frazer grabbed number four breaking into the circle and flicking high into the net and just minutes later Robyn Chambers smashed her shot home after a penalty corner routine had broken down only for the loose ball to fall kindly for Chambers who made no mistake.

McAlpine, Rebecca Barry and Robyn Chambers all had chances but Corinthians’ Sarah Torrens pulled one back for the home side.

Elks captain Gemma Frazer put an end to any hopes of a revival when after 56 minutes she despatched a tight angled shot of her own to finish the game at 6-1.

The Elks now await the draw for the next round and coach Ricky Lee commented: “We were glad to get this game played and hopefully a home tie will come out of the hat for us. We have been on the road for the last two rounds in this competition and as we get into the latter stages home advantage will make a huge difference.”

After the game the team made a quick dash to Belfast as the Ulster Elks’ Gala Fundraising Ball was scheduled for the Hilton Hotel that evening. Honorary Club President, Trish McFarland said: “Competing in Europe for the first time later this year and the extensive travel that the new EY Hockey League requires, will be a challenge. Not only in a playing context but in the securing the necessary funds that such trips demands.”

Over 160 players, family, university dignataries and their guests attended the function.