Kilkenny ladies hockey team continue winning run

Once again, the Kilkenny ladies secured a well-earned victory in Division 2 of the Leinster League this weekend, defeating a dogged Wexford in Kilkenny College on Saturday.

From the offset the Kilkenny ladies dominated, with skilful, accurate passing between Linda Caulfield, Sinead Connery and Gemma O’Dwyer, eventually resulting in Sara Browne bagging the first goal for Kilkenny in the opening quarter.

After much chaos in the circle in the second quarter, a weaving run made by the speedy Lily Grace got the ball to Paula Farrell, who quickly but calmly struck the ball into the left corner of the Wexford goal, ensuring the efforts of her team were rewarded.

The league leaders sailed into half time with a two goal lead.

With the wind picking up in the third quarter, so too did the Wexford side.

The travelling team rallied together to make a comeback.

The home side had other ideas however, and continued piling on the pressure thanks to the hardworking Catriona Carey who had just retired from injury.

The former international showed her class in the middle of the field and set up many threatening attacks on the Wexford goal.
The final quarter saw the Cats continue to dominate.

Intricate passing between Ally Carter and Laura Walshe resulted in a penalty corner being awarded to Kilkenny which then translated into a third goal by the super Ava Murphy to secure their victory.

This marvellous win puts Kilkenny top of the table with a nine point lead, with three matches left to play in Division 2 of the Leinster League.

Kilkenny 1s: Doireann McCurdy, Niamh Spratt O’Shea, Ciara Clarke, Clair Phelan (C), Sinead Connery, Linda Caulfield, Catriona Carey, Paula Farrell, Gemma O’Dwyer, Laura Walshe, Micaela Sanderson, Ally Carter, Sue Shirley, Sara Browne, Ava Murphy, Lily Grace.

Coach: Gavin Bourke