Bangor in exciting draw with league leaders

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NNI SENIOR 1

BANGOR 63

MID ULSTER 63

THE highly-anticipated rematch between Bangor and Mid Ulster delivered quite the thrilling encounter, with many on the edge of their seats in the closing stages of the game.

Determined to put right their loss in the earlier fixture, Bangor brought intensity and energy right from the opening whistle. The attacking play was sharp by Aimee Trainor (WA), with Alison McClune (GS) and Rachael Gowdy (GA) in the shooting circle working well together to create scoring opportunities.

Mid Ulster also had very precise and accurate shooting and ended the first quarter ahead by one at 17-16.

With the help of defensive work in the second quarter from Yazmin Bleakley (WD), Rebecca Mayne (GD) and Miki Dunlop (GK), Bangor headed into half-time with a lead of 30-29.

The positive momentum continued into the second half, with Bangor continuing to deliver precise centre passes that facilitated fluid transitions into their attacking third. Accurate centre passes from Lynda Perkins (C) to Aimee Traynor and Rachel Gowdy allowed Bangor to create several solid scoring opportunities in the third quarter, adding to their tally with five consecutive goals.

Mid Ulster remained a threat however and clawed back Bangor’s seven-goal lead to finish the third quarter trailing 48-45.

The final quarter was nothing short of exhilarating. With only three goals separating the teams, it was all to play for. Both teams worked extremely hard, making every pass, intercept and shot count. At one stage Bangor led by five, but Mid Ulster came back fighting, scoring five consecutive goals towards the end of the quarter. Bangor maintained their composure in the face of intense pressure, but Mid Ulster remained just as determined, equalising in the final moments. At the final whistle, the scores were tied at 63-63.

With thanks to Mid Ulster for a great game, to those who came to support and to the umpires.

Player of the match: Aimee Trainor.