Ladies' Seconds get season off to winning ways

Having been relegated last season, Ballymena are hoping to find themselves sitting more comfortable this season in the league, even though there are many new faces in the club and many young players to introduce to senior hockey.

With players still finding themselves being watched for selection among the women’s 3 teams, this added pressure as well as having to bond quickly with unfamiliar team mates certainly didn’t deter any player from giving a top performance to clinch a very creditable win.

Ballymena’s goal came early on in the match from a well taken penalty corner. The ball was struck at the top of the circle by Suzie Bell, and ably tapped in at the post by Susie Houston.

The visitors created other chances to go further ahead. Their best opportunity came from a scramble in front of the net following another penalty corner won by Amy Logan, but despite Ballymena’s determination they just couldn’t capitalize on such openings.

After half time Harlequins almost equalized, but keeper and team captain, Joanne Logan, pulled off a fine save much to the relief of her team mates.

Towards the end of the game, both teams piled on the pressure. For Ballymena, Lorna Murphy volleyed the ball narrowly past the goals after Jenny Dixon had worked hard to win the ball strongly for Ballymena down the side line.

Then at the other end, it was defender Katie Houston, who ensured Ballymena came away with all the points, when she saved the ball off the line from a Harlequins penalty corner.

The seconds were delighted with their 1–0 win, especially against a strong team and away from home. This will give them great confidence for next week when they face Priorians 2ndx1 at the showgrounds.

Seconds: Joanne Logan, Catherine McCracken, Grace McBurney, Jenny Sutherland, Katie Houston, Suzie Bell, Susie Houston, Susie Woolf, Lauren Kennedy, Amy Logan, Lorna Murphy, Jenny Dickson, Beth Dinsmore.

Player of match – Suzie Houston.