Gutsy performance despite loss

Banbridge started off the stronger team and were unlucky not to score in the first five minutes after a Banbridge forward picked up a great cross from the right wing and hit a clear shot on goal only to be denied by Catherine Growcott, the South goalkeeper.

Catherine, again demonstrating great goalkeeping credentials, made another couple of fine saves to deny Banbridge until 15 minutes into the game when an attempted clearance by the South defence found a Banbridge forward who picked up a fine pass into the South circle which finally rewarded the Banbridge team for their efforts.

Banbridge continued to attack but some fine defensive play by Natalie Lowry and Nicole Robinson kept the visitors at bay until the end of the first half when another surge forward from Banbridge rewarded them with their second goal.

South started the second half determined to reward the local support with Carly Niblock and Danielle Heasley combining well in midfield to press the Banbridge defence.

Again the experience of the Banbridge team combined well to respond with another attack threatening the South goal. A determined effort by Nicole Smyth in the South defence intercepted the Banbridge attack giving Laura McConnell an opportunity to mount an attack down the left.

Also determined to keep the pressure on the Banbridge defence, the mother and daughter combination of Catherine and Natasha Michaeledes worked hard to continue to push forward but were unable to break down the stalwarts in the Banbridge defence.

The South goalkeeper made a fine save from a penalty flick after the ball hit a South player’s feet on the goal line.

Banbridge finally sealed the match with their third goal towards the end of the second half. Although still to secure their first point of the season South can take a lot from the game with the determined team effort. Thanks to George Redpath for umpiring.