South Ladies thirds lose out to undefeated league leaders Portadown

Although they put in a sterling performance the newest addition to the Ulster Branch were unable to break through the experienced Portadown team who have still to drop any points in their league campaign.

After a shaky start, two goals down in the first 15 minutes, one from a clean strike from the edge of the circle and the other from a short corner, the South women worked hard to get into the match. Morgan Muir and Danielle Heasley caused problems for the Portadown defence and with Ruth Young finding room on the right flank the ladies had a number of chances on goal but couldn’t make the breakthrough.

The second half was a more even affair with the South forwards of Julia Moore and Laura McConnel llinking well with the midfield of Catherine Faulkner and Danielle heasley trying to penetrate the Portadown defence.

A great chance came about when Niamh Doyle ran down the right placing the ball into the circle but Ruth Young’s shot was saved by the Portadown keeper.

South’s defence, well marshalled by Shannon Johnston and with Courtney Mills in great form in nets, managed to keep the second half score even until the last minute.

A scrappy encounter in the front of goal gave Portadown their third goal. Morgan Muir was player of the match.

The ladies travel to Ards next week.