Report by Joan Buckley :

 

Arravale Rovers Junior Ladies won their first title in a league final against St Ailbe’s last Friday night. Played in Sean Treacy park, the first ten minutes of the game remained scoreless, as both teams battled for procession and dominance in the game. The Emly team were first to score with a convincing point from play. And the game was on. The Rover backs got the measure of their opponents and were phenomenal at winning ball and working it up the field. Their efforts were rewarded as the forwards kicked into gear scoring 2 4 to Emly’s 0 3 by half time. The Rovers midfielder, Mikayla Curran Leahy was carrying an injury. This was a major set- back for the rovers as she had to be replaced. However, the strength from the bench ensured that Rovers remained ahead at half time as Niamh Kennedy took to the field at wing back. Rovers started strong in the second half and a lovely passage of play involving Sarah Duggan, Aimee Fogarty and Helen Cremmins saw Rovers get their third goal. However, St. Ailbes Niamh O’ Brien and Jane McGrath, caused havoc in midfield and it took a huge performance from Aine O ‘Carroll and Caoimhe Comerford to ensure that the ball was continually fed into the forward line. As Rovers thought they had it in the bag, St. Ailbes got a break and in quick succession had 2 goals in the back of the Rovers net. Gaining momentum, they fought to knock on the door again but solid performances from goalie, Ruth Butler and her backline ensured that Rovers maintained the lead at full time.

Final score 4 11 to 2 4.