Priorians' tournament is another success

This year for the first time Prior opened the competition to clubs across the local region. Visitors included Limavady, Coleraine, Castlederg, Ballymoney and Raphoe. All participants demonstrated an excellent standard of hockey and sportsmanship.

Returning champions Castlederg were out to win for the third year in a row, unfortunately they were unable to finish in the top four. These four teams competed in the semi-finals on Saturday afternoon.

The home side had two teams entered in the competition and this is where they met. With some friendly banter the match got underway. Confidence was high in both teams but the tiredness began to show.

Their very competent centre forward slotted a quick ball from the red defence and scored.

This meant a place in the final for Priorians Red Arrows, leaving Priorians second entry, the white angels to take a respectable and hard fought third place. The second semi-final was between Limavady Ladies and Raphoe. The result was in Raphoe's favour, setting up a much-anticipated final.

The first half between Prior and Raphoe saw no score, both teams were hungry for victory and came out stronger in the second half. Prior scored first but Raphoe didn't take long to equalise with a great aerial goal. With each half only 10 minutes spectators were on the edge of their seats. Prior responded by taking the lead again.

With three minutes left the score went to 2-2 and talk of extra time emerged, Prior silenced the crowd by scoring just in time to clinch their first victory at the tournament.

Prior saw further success with the umpires collectively voting Rachel Fleming Player of the Tournament. Rachel has just returned to Priorians after graduating from Northumbria University.

The club would like to thank all participants and their coaches, also umpires Alyson Douglas and Stephen Cleverly and Eurosport for their patience, cooperation and participation in the 2010 tournament.

For those of you who have a keen interest in hockey or would just like to check it out please come along to our training in St. Columb's Park on Thursday evening at 7pm sharp.

Also for all those budding junior players, hockey season also begins for you. Girls from Year 8-12 are welcome to come along on a Wednesday evening from 7pm-8pm at St. Columbs Park starting on September 15th.

Boys and girls from Primary 4-7 are welcome to come along on Thursday evenings from 6pm-7pm beginning 16th September 2010.

Keep reading the local press for match reports from games in the pending season. Support for home games will also be greatly appreciated.