On Wednesday 18th March Friends’ 2nd XI girls’ hockey team faced a strong Ballyclare side at Deramore Park in the McDowell Cup Final. Having played Ballyclare at the start of the season and drawing 1-1 Friends’ knew they would be in for a tough match. In the first half Ballyclare settled quickly whereas Friends’ nerves got the better of them. There was strong attack from the Ballyclare team who eventually gained a short corner but Friends’ goal keeper Sarah Aiken reacted well and cleared the ball well out of the danger area. After half time following a motivating team talk Friends’ lifted their game and started to play as if they were in a cup final. The girls dominated this half winning three consecutive short corners but failed to capitalise on these opportunities. Eventually with continued pressure from the Friends’ girls Ballyclare, unable to clear the ball gave away a free hit just outside the circle. Sarah Wells found Emma Megoran whose shot at goal was deflected into the net by a Ballyclare stick. Friends’ continued to dominate the rest of the half keeping their heads and defending any Ballyclare attacks. After a shaky start Friends’ got the result they deserved as they have had a very successful season.
On Wednesday 18th March Friends’ 2nd XI girls’ hockey team faced a strong Ballyclare side at Deramore Park in the McDowell Cup Final. Having played Ballyclare at the start of the season and drawing 1-1 Friends’ knew they would be in for a tough match. In the first half Ballyclare settled quickly whereas Friends’ nerves got the better of them. There was strong attack from the Ballyclare team who eventually gained a short corner but Friends’ goal keeper Sarah Aiken reacted well and cleared the ball well out of the danger area. After half time following a motivating team talk Friends’ lifted their game and started to play as if they were in a cup final. The girls dominated this half winning three consecutive short corners but failed to capitalise on these opportunities. Eventually with continued pressure from the Friends’ girls Ballyclare, unable to clear the ball gave away a free hit just outside the circle. Sarah Wells found Emma Megoran whose shot at goal was deflected into the net by a Ballyclare stick. Friends’ continued to dominate the rest of the half keeping their heads and defending any Ballyclare attacks. After a shaky start Friends’ got the result they deserved as they have had a very successful season. 
