Patterson penalty seals win over Greenisland

However, these two east Antrim neighbours still occupy the bottom two places in Senior One, and with only three fixtures remaining they are badly in need of points to avoid the drop.

Last month the Greenisland girls came to Foundry Lane and won 3-1, but they were unable to repeat the feat on their own patch at the weekend when they lost 2-0.

Greenisland were immediately forced on to the back foot, with Lorraine Ashcroft’s penetrating runs down the left touchline stretching their defence on several occasions.

At the opposite end Louise Holmes, Emma Patterson, Nicki McMillan and Jade Purdy handled sporadic attacks confidently, so that goalkeeper Claire Grills had an easy time.

Vikki Milligan initiated several attacking moves, but Kerrie Bell, Tori Wallace and team captain Suzanne Dickey were unable to capitalise.

The pressure eventually paid off when a penalty corner routine involving McMillan, Patterson and Victoria White resulted in Wallace drilling the ball in to the net.

Greenisland improved after the interval but were unable to penetrate a resolute defence, while the ‘Clare girls relied on quick counter-attacks.

With time running out Ballyclare got the welcome cushion of a second goal when Emma Patterson coolly dispatched a penalty stroke well out of the reach of the goalie.