Parkview's Intermediate Cup hopes dashed by solitary Ards strike

The only goal of the game came in the second half and despite a strong finish Tammy Gamble’s girls were unable to take the quarter-final into extra-time.

Ards are one of the top hockey clubs in Northern Ireland, so not surprisingly their 3rd XI consisted of talented young players, who combined enthusiasm and fitness to keep the Parkview defenders on their toes.

Maimie Graham made several fine saves in a scoreless first half, but her opposite number also had a few anxious moments. Toni Smallwood made one fine run through the defence before crossing into the circle, where Becky Linford just failed to get a touch with the goalie exposed.

Later a thrust by midfielder Nikki Singleton created space for Jenna Maxwell-Oliphant, but her finishing effort rebounded off the post.

During the second session the hosts upped the tempo and were rewarded with the only goal of the game, scored in a quick counter-attack, but there was a late let-off at the Ards end, when Gamble’s shot was scrambled off the line.

“We gave a good account of ourselves against a very fit young team,” said PRO Kathy Morrison. “We had to defend in depth in the second half, and Ards were deserved winners, so we wish them all the best in the semi-final.”

Parkview are off to Ballynahinch on Saturday andthey will be aiming to boost their Senior 4 promotion hopes.