Malone Women stun Carrickfergus with a hard fought win

Malone Women’s 1st XV played their first home match of the season last Sunday against Carrickfergus. A short shower preceded K.O. but fortunately the weather cleared.Having beaten Omagh away 38-12 the previous week the coaches were hopeful for a good performance.

Carrick were known to have a strong pack and they didn’t disappoint. Malone, however scored first, through a well taken try by Brogain Ni Chairrain on the right wing. Carrick then equalised and the sides were well matched until the 25 minute mark when Jen McKay at outside centre broke through the defense to score. Before half time Carrick were penalised inside their own 25 and Rebecca Lawlor narrowly missed the target. The second half began with the scoreboard showing 10 - 5 in favour of the home side. It remained that way for about 10 minutes when Brogain was once again set free and scored on the right. From the kick off Charlene McAdams the Malone No. 10 was tackled and a scuffle ensued. Referee, Richard Robinson, showed her a red card as she had raised her foot to the opposition (there was no contact). She apologised to the referee and the opposing team. Being a player short seemed to concentrate the minds of the Malone girls and the forwards became more effective in their tackles and their driving play.

They became more dominant in the scrums which had struggled in the first half. Having set up a platform the ball was moved to the backs, who showed some exiting running rugby. Hazel Jordan on the left wing had several good carries and was rewarded with a try. Brogain also scored on her wing to bring her personal tally to three and Laura Stewart at inside centre crossed between the posts following a great break by Jen at 13, who fed her on the inside shoulder. Two conversions from Rebecca left the final score at 34 -5. So far the girls have picked up where they left off last year, but they are aware that further challenges lie ahead.
Apart from the try scorers Katie Campbell at 15 and Jenna Stewart at 9 had excellent games. The latter marshaling her forwards and linking well with the backs.

Newcomers Leia Cairns and Darryl Lemon made a huge impact when they came on and competition for places is hotting up.
The team and club are grateful to the coaches John Murray, Ross Ferguson, John Sheppard and Stuart Duncan who have been guiding the girls this season.

Malone 34 - 5 Carrickfergus