Longwood’s U12 Girls may have endured the heartbreak of losing a League Final on Saturday, but the quality of their performance ensured all their supporters were filled with an enormous sense of pride at the end of what was a thoroughly absorbing and exciting contest.
After a somewhat nervy opening quarter, after which they trailed by seven points, Longwood stormed back into the game with some excellent scores, including a stunning goal from Sarah McQuaid which saw her cut in from the right wing before unleashing a thunderbolt to the top corner of the net. This amazing goal proved to be the catalyst as Longwood would go on to dominate the second quarter.
Despite facing a strongly fancied Na Fianna side, Longwood were not in the business of admiring their opponent. Instead, they chose to attack at every opportunity, a brave and exciting strategy that paid dividends on many occasions.
Both teams registered nine scores, unfortunately the old adage of “goals win games” once again rang true and Longwood lost out after an excellent performance.
All of the girls played incredibly well, not always easy on such a big occasion. Particular mention must go to Ella McCann who contributed four fantastic points from midfield, Aisling Foran who seemed to cover every blade of grass in Dunganny and Gabby Smyth who performed heroics at full back, fending off countless Na Fianna attacks.
We congratulate Na Fianna on their success and we look forward to many more battles between these fine teams in the years ahead.
So a huge WELL DONE to the players and their dedicated coaches – you are an absolute credit to your club.
Hold your heads up high girls. Keep practicing, listen to your coaches and your day will come.
Maigh Dearmhaí abú!!
Longwood: Kelly Murphy, Abbie Lomax, Gabby Smyth, Caoimhe Dixon, Ellie Saunders (0-1), Tilly Leigh, McKenzie Johnson, Ella McCann (0-4), Aisling Foran, Sarah McQuade (1-2), Taylor McGee, Roisin Murray, Izzy Fahey (0-1), Ruby Bermingham, Lucy Moran, Sarah Dalton, Ciara Geraghty, Airah Alawiye, Isabella Giles
