Ballymahon Road girls crowned

In a keenly contested and exciting game of hockey, Ballymahon Road girls were crowned county champions with a hard fought win. The scoreline of 3-0 does not reflect the tight game with Ballymahon Road only getting their scores in the last fifteen minutes. A tight Mount Temple/Baylin defence had managed for 45 minutes to repel numerous attacks but, with time running out, they had to commit to all out attack after the opening goal which left them vulnerable at the back. This gave Ballymahon Road the chance to add to their tally and score two more. Indeed one of the stars of the show in the dying minutes was the outstanding Mount Temple/Baylin keeper. Over the whole course of the game, the Athlone side were deserving winners of this final. Their combination play, skill level and commitment saw them launch sustained attacks from the tip off. Alison Fagan, captain and sweeper, led by example and controlled her defence with a maturity that inspired confidence in all those around her. Alison was to score the first goal when she received a well taken short corner from Nicola Collison and slotted the ball into the back of the goal. The Athlone side"s backline of Emma Fagan, Emma Johnson and Aishling Hurley were excellent throughout and as the scoreline proved were very hard to beat. In the middle, Ballymahon Road boasted one of the best midfields in underage hockey, with Rachel Emmerson, Nicola Collison and Laura McCullagh. These three girls were simply brilliant at times and never were found wanting, whether helping out defence or supporting the forward line. Indeed the second goal came from this trio when Rachel Emmerson slotted home to put them two up. A forward line of Marian Ryan, Lauren Kennedy and Renata Downes would be the envy of any team and they again proved why. They constantly terrorised the Mount Temple defence and, when the talented Lauren Kennedy and Renata forced a short corner, it was fitting that on the rebound from Ali Fagan"s shot, Lauren added her name to the score sheet with a superbly taken goal. If the strength of the team is judged by what is on the bench then Ballymahon Road is a really good outfit. The introduction of Anna McCullagh saw spectators witness a hugely impressive display from the youngest member of the squad. With the arrival on pitch of Emily Connell, Eimear McCarrick, Eimear O"Driscoll and Emma Kieran, the team got a much needed boost with fresh legs. Hockey depends on subbing on and off and requires a strong squad to be successful. The game Ballymahon Road play is energy sapping and success would not be achieved without these girls. The final whistle brought great celebrations to this great bunch of girls and their families who were there in numbers to support. Captain Alison Fagan has been a great rallying point for this team and earned her right to be a winning captain. For Amanda Bennett, their manager, and coach Rita, this was a great and proud day. Thanks to umpires Jillian and Sarah.The real credit however must go to Kay Connell for her undying work, commitment and support of Community Games throughout the county but particularly in her home area of Ballymahon Road, Athlone. This team is Kay"s team and the girls showed their support by winning the title for her. Next stop Leinster!