The game started slowly with Lurgan enjoying prolonged periods of possession without actually threatening the PSNI goal. Halfway through the first period Lurgan had Eileen Mitchell in goal to thank after two defensive errors put PSNI clear through to score with only Eileen to beat. However, the Lurgan goalie was extremely alert and was quick off her line to clear the danger. Lurgan continued to push forward but were still adjusting to the pace of the pitch and the game remained scoreless through to half-time.

The second half saw a renewed determination from Lurgan and again they threatened the PSNI goal on several occasions, with Claire Livingston, Alex Jenkinson and Heather Marriott all coming close with well hit shots. However it took well into the second before the dead-lock was broken when Claire Livingston scrambled the ball over the PSNI goal-line to put the visitors 1-0 ahead. Despite prolonged periods of pressure towards the end of the game Lurgan’s defence stood firm and they came away with a hard-earned but well deserved three points.

 

Lurgan team manager, Colin Atkinson, was delighted with the grit, determination and patience shown by his young team and in particular the way Rachel Gillespie, on only her first outing for the Thirds, showed remarkable composure when called upon to do a job in the Lurgan defence.