Seconds through to the final

The squad were well prepared for this game and ready to take Regent on.

In the first half Lurgan were playing some excellent hockey. The midfield Samantha Bann, Tara McIlwaine and Laura King were working hard and playing well together. Down the left hand side, Louise McKitterick and Laura King were linking up well. Lurgan’s forwards, Gemma McKitterick, Stacie McCann and Chloe Neville, were switching around and making it difficult for Regent defence to keep track of them. Following some excellent passing, a shot by Gemma McKitterick was taken and Lurgan had the first goal of the match.

This gave Lurgan a confidence boost and they began to raise their game. Regent however also raised their game, determined to get a goal back. Both teams were playing well and it was a good tie

In the second half both teams found it difficult to get their momentum back. Lurgan let Regent back into the game and Regent started to fight back hard. The College defence of Sherrie Percy, Carla Webster, Louise McKitterick and Rebecca McShane were marking well but at times found it difficult to get it out of their 25 as Regent were pressing on them.

Goalkeeper Michaela McNally was playing well and saved some good shots that came in by Regent. After a questionable entry into the circle, Regent scored an excellent goal. The rest of the game was frustrating to watch as both teams were fighting for the result they wanted. In the end Lurgan College won 2-1.

This is the second year in a row Lurgan College 2nd XI have made it through to the McDowell Cup final. They are looking forward to meeting Rainey Endowed (for the second year in a row) in the final.