Antrim Camogie League – Division 2

Ballycastle 2-10 Loughgiel 1-07

Pics and report by Darach Ó Maoláin

Much like recent days, the sun’s blinding rays had enveloped the green grass of our playing fields in the late evening air. This blinding atmosphere was not detrimental to the swift and skilful Ballycastle force who collided with Loughgiel in the Antrim Senior Division 2 Camogie League. The Town was off to a great start with fantastic efforts being displayed by Ellen McIntosh. An early point scored by Maria Bakewell had set the tone for the match. Although Ballycastle were making strides, the efforts of Erin Connolly, Eimear McKinley and the goalkeeper, Shauna McKillop, were keeping further scores at bay. Despite these great efforts, a swift strike of the ball by Samantha McKillen gave Ballycastle a goal. The home team were not giving up, and it must be highlighted that Louise McKillop and Zoe Cassley had conducted themselves very gracefully throughout the match and had kept the spirit of fighting back alive. 

Half Time  – Ballycastle 1-4 Loughgiel 0-03

Ballycastle also started the second half very strongly, and it was evident that Shauna McKillop had been put under great pressure, but she stood firm and defended magnificently. Maria Bakewell and Tara McAfee showed well but they were outmanoeuvred by an impressive display by Rósín Cummings. However, despite such efforts, it became abundantly clear that that speed and tenacity of Ellen McIntosh and Maebh O’Neill were unrivalled. Cara Connolly and Emma McMullan kept the fight going with the help of their comrades in withstanding the Ballycastle force. As the match progressed, a fantastic goal by Ellen McIntosh solidified Ballycastle’s position in the later stages of the match and sealed the win