Donaghadee Ladies Hockey Club 1XI travelled to face fellow promotees Club KV under the Friday night lights, looking to secure valuable points to strengthen their position in Senior League 2. In a match that swung dramatically, the visitors produced a dominant display for much of the game before being forced to settle for a draw after a late fightback.
Donaghadee started brightly, setting the tempo from the opening whistle. Their defensive pairing of Megan Inglis and Natalie Jamieson proved solid, breaking up attacks, while the midfield trio of Shell Pearson, Helen Herron and Jess Moore controlled possession and drove the team forward. Their efforts pinned Club KV back for long spells and eventually led to the opening goal, with Jordan McWilliams reacting quickest to a rebound to fire home and give the visitors a deserved lead.
Building on that momentum, Donaghadee doubled their advantage through a well-worked team move. A strong clearance from Kathy Sinnamon found Carolyn Scott, who delivered a precise cross-field pass to Katie McHenry. Showing composure, McHenry drove into the circle, rounded the goalkeeper and slotted home to make it 2-0.
At that stage, Donaghadee looked firmly in control, but the game shifted following an injury that forced a reshuffle. Club KV seized the opportunity, raising their intensity and winning a series of penalty corners. Goalkeeper Faith McMillen produced a string of impressive saves to keep her side ahead, supported by determined defensive work from her teammates.
However, the sustained pressure eventually told. In a frantic closing spell, Club KV scored twice in quick succession to level the match, denying Donaghadee what had looked like a well-earned victory. Despite the disappointment of conceding late, the visitors can take encouragement from a strong overall performance and a valuable point away from home, with just three games of the season remaining.
Donaghadee 1XI return to action this Friday night against Bangor Hockey Club at BGS, with push-back scheduled for 8pm.
