SENIOR LEAGUE 3
HOLYWOOD LADIES 6
ANTRIM LADIES 1
THERE was more than one reason for Holywood Ladies Hockey Club to celebrate at the weekend.
An air of anticipation could be felt on Saturday as both the club’s first and second XI sides returned to competitive action in the town following many years away.
Holywood’s first team earned a 6-1 victory over Antrim in a fast-moving game at Sullivan. Karen Kennedy got the ball rolling with a superb effort in the first quarter of the game, followed quickly by a skilful deflection goal from Katie McGown.
With the wind in their sails, Holywood pressed on, dominating the first half and scoring another just before half-time, the shot taken by Emma Gray.
The second half saw Antrim come out all guns blazing, but this was swiftly rebuffed by Rachael Gowdy, making her debut for Holywood at right forward. A fabulous reverse sweep sunk into the back of the net as the hosts went four ahead.
Holywood continued to use the width of the pitch well, spreading the ball dodging the Antrim defence. Antrim received a penalty corner opportunity, against the run of play, and slotted it past the goalkeeper to claw one back.
Despite a strong Antrim defensive line, Holywood managed to add another two goals to their tally, both thanks to Jess Rollo showing composure and determination in the circle.
Holywood’s thoughts were with Antrim Hockey Club and the community as the day of the match marked the 38th anniversary of the tragic loss of three of the club’s players, Jimmy Orr, Colin Rainey and Harry Young, in a road traffic accident. On Saturday both teams and spectators observed a minute of silence in memory of these men.
Also on Saturday, Holywood’s seconds played out a 1-1 draw with Bangor in a hard fought affair.
Both sides struggled to gain an upper hand as it was clear from the get go that they were evenly matched. Bangor started to apply more pressure, having some break away opportunities that were swept away by the Holywood defence.
It was Becca Gray who finished off a penalty corner with a strong slap into the corner for Holywood’s opening goal.
In the third quarter Bangor scored an impressive goal to make the score even. The match continued back and forth, neither team able to find their way into the circle before the whistle blew.
Holywood Ladies Hockey Club has resumed regular training sessions, every Monday evening at 7.30pm at Sullivan Upper School. These sessions are open to all, welcoming both experienced players and newcomers to the sport.
The club is committed to fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment, encouraging anyone with an interest in hockey to come along and get involved. With their return to Holywood, the club is excited about the future and optimistic that the move back to a local venue will help attract new players and allow them to strengthen ties with nearby schools.
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