Enniskillen Royal played their last league game of the season against an in form Castlederg side who, only last week contested the final of the Ulster Schools Cup. Our girls started brightly with the backline of Ella Forsythe, Emily Morton and Abi Brock making ‘keeper Victoria Benson almost redundant! Kerri Hassard, Annabel Morrison, and Captain Leanora Bell dominated the midfield setting up numerous attacking opportunities for forwards, Anna Wilson and Faith Gould. Chances were created and spurned leaving the half-time score 0-0.
We started the second half on the front foot and after some glorious interplay, Leah Wilson was released one on one with the ‘Keeper, Leah kept her composure, drew the netminder and calmly placed the ball into the corner of the net. Enniskillen created many more chances but were denied by a sparkling performance from the Castlederg ‘keeper. Final score 1-0 to ERGS. All the girls played their part, but player of the match must go to Aimee Ross who was confident and assured throughout.
We fielded a strong second string in the next game and many of the girls on this side could consider themselves a little unlucky not to be included in the first eleven. Unfortunately, we conceded in the very first minute to a well worked penalty corner. Undeterred our girls gradually wrestled control setting up the chance for Mia Deane to equalise on the stroke of half-time. Changes were made at the interval with Sophie Moore and Faith Phair acquitting themselves well. Marnie Noble appeared to have scored the winner when she pivoted in the “D,” and stroked the ball into the net however this strike was rightly chalked off due to an infringement in the build-up. Final score 1-1. On this occasion, player of the match was Ruby Cobain. Always in the right place, assured on the ball and aggressive in the tackle.
This is a very young squad which I hope will be together for several years however we have to say good-bye to year 14 stalwarts Kerri Hassard, Hannah Frazer, and Leanora Bell. They have been inspirational, and the younger girls could not have had better role models, not only as brilliant hockey players but as ambassadors for the school. We wish you every success in the future and we know that you will excel in your chosen field.
Finally, a word of congratulations to Castlederg High School on reaching the schools cup final. A tremendous achievement. Just fell short in the end to a very good Dromore side but seeing a local team prosper is a terrific boost for all schools in the area.
