An Ríocht u16 Camogs kicked off their league campaign in style on Thursday evening delivering a strong, well-rounded team performance in their opening match against a determined Ballygalget side. The home team settled quickly into the match, with Olivia Sloan opening the scoring. Ballygalget responded with attacking pressure, but An Ríocht’s defence stood firm. Katie Rose Rooney, Amy Harper, Ciara Fearon, Ellie Cousins and Eimear Sloan all delivered outstanding defensive displays, shutting down Ballygalget’s advances with some strong tackling, hooking and blocking. Midfield was a key battleground and An Ríocht’s Toni Lee, Olivia, Tia and Ellie Sloan rose to the occasion, delivering a steady supply of quality ball into the forward line and contributing to several points on the scoreboard. Up front the forwards worked tirelessly and kept Ballygalget under constant pressure, showcasing the attacking strength of the team. The girls worked together and breaking through the strong Ballygalget defence the sliotar found the back of the net as needed to keep us in the game. Ballygalget came out strong in the second half, testing An Ríocht’s goalkeepers Cara Rodgers and Siofra Cahill. However, both stood their ground with crucial saves that kept the opposition at bay. We saw some great outfield play from Cara Rogers clearing her lines in corner back and her usual strong puck outs were on target and delivered in well. After winning a free in the half-back line, Ciara Fearon delivered a pinpoint ball to Toni Lee McVeigh, who finished superbly with a goal to the back of the net. Siofra Cahill scooped up some dangerous balls in the back corner clearing her lines under pressure from an advancing Ballygalget. There was some great team play and passes between the forwards and some well-crafted scores. The sliotar hit the corner pocket after a lovely slick pass from Mya Harper. Kayleigh Donaghy, Ava Rogers and Grace Hughes all worked tirelessly in the half forward line under pressure from Ballygalget’s defence while Orlaigh Small found the back of the net on 4 occasions with a personal tally of 4:01 for the evening. In a hard fought contest the girls showed great character and team work. We wish them well in their next fixture away to St. Patrick’s. Scores Olivia Sloan 0-3, Orlaigh Small 4-1, Toni Lee McVeigh 2-1, Tia Mulholland Maddocks 0-1. Missing from photo: Katie Rose, Lily Rose and Ciara.
