Steph seals a narrow Cup win for South Ladies

The Ladies edged out Ballynahinch 1-0 at home thanks to a Steph Neill winner early in the second half.

Right from the offset, South showed their visitors that they were not going to make things easy.

South dominated from the start while the visitors were struggling to break through the South defence. Early breaks from Ballynahinch were quickly intercepted by the South midfield and back line.

Player of the Match Lucy Fitzpatrick effortlessly took the ball into the attacking circle however the ‘Hinch keeper was quick to react to any shots, preventing the home team from getting off the mark.

As the first half approached it’s end, South found themselves having to rearrange their line up after forward Charis Rodgers had to step off due to an injury sustained in a collision.

The ladies regrouped and began the second half with a very determined mindset.

Within minutes of the restart, South were ahead. Amy Patton picked up a ball fed through from the back line and confidently sent it into the circle where an awaiting Steph Neill quickly reacted and found the back of the net.

This goal was followed by a barrage of continuous attacking play from South as they pushed for a sdcond. Vicky Donaldson dribbled the ball swiftly into the circle along the back line whilst Morgan Muir prevented the Ballynahinch players from sending the ball to their forwards.

As the frustration levels began to rise from the ‘Hinch ladies, the South team remained calm, with the back line clearing any ‘Hinch forwards who thought they had the opportunity to break away.

The team work and encouragement was evident from the South Ladies throughout and they held out for a narrow win in this, their second match of the tournament.

The team would like to thank Catherine Faulkner and Emma Kay for umpiring.