7pm last Wednesday evening a downpour engulfed Clanna Gael’s home pitch in Ringsend but it did little to dampen the spirit of our Ladies Senior footballers who accounted for the home team on a final score line of 2.15 to 1.5.
The story of the game revolved mainly around the two Hyland sisters, Hannah and Natalia, the latter having recently returned from her travels of over 4 1/2 years. However Natalia has lost none of her skill or class in the intervening years as demonstrated by her performance on Wednesday when she ended up scoring 6 points from her midfield position and in all honesty could have reached double figures on another night. Her range of passing and shooting with both feet were a joy to behold while her handling and fielding on a wet night was of the highest order. Not to be outdone however was her younger sister Hannah who partnered Natalia at midfield and probably had one of her best games in a Boden jersey ending up scoring three points, two of which were of the”monster” variety from way out the field. Certainly as one supporter at the game suggested definitely a chip of the old block though the elder sibling would undoubtedly say less of the old please!!
While the Hyland girls undoubtedly stole the show it was by no means a two woman show. Speedster Aoife Gogan scored 2 terrific goals, the second of which was truly wonderful. Niamh Crowley in centre back, who was just returning from injury, was back to her very best despite playing in an unfamiliar role. Ciara Ruddy was solid at full back and made one amazing block and tackle with 5 minutes
Finally a special mention needs to be made of Senior B player Sarah Burns and Minor star Saoirse Fitzgerald, both borrowed for the night, as they contributed immensely to the win with the latter unlucky not to score a goal with the Clann’s ‘keeper making a fine save deflecting her shot onto the post but ended the night scoring a fine point. Other scorers were Maria McGrath 0.3, Elaine McGrath and Aoife Martin 0.1 each.
Well done Ladies!
Pictured before the game last Wednesday are Hannah and Natalia Hyland.
