Fantastic 3–0 win for the Saints in the heavy southern rain!
St Ninian’s continued their unbeaten run in senior hockey with an impressive 3–0 victory over Castle Rushen High School in challenging, wet conditions.
The Saints started the game like a house on fire, with captain Ela Blakemore’s reverse hit finding Lara Smith unmarked at the back post to put SNHS 1–0 ahead inside the opening 50 seconds! The girls built on this electric start, dominating possession and forcing the Castle Rushen goalkeeper into several smart saves. The forward line of Lula-Belle Findlay, Sophie Kaighin and Lara Smith proved a constant threat, keeping the CRHS defenders under pressure throughout the first half. In midfield, Nicole Astell-Burt and Anna Wilson helped maintain the intensity with some excellent interceptions and key passes.
The Saints doubled their lead on the stroke of half-time from a penalty corner. After her initial effort was blocked, Blakemore showed great skill and determination to dance around three defenders before finding the back of the net and giving SNHS a deserved 2–0 lead at the break.
The attacking intensity continued into the second half, with substitute Lois Coppell making an immediate impact. Just three minutes after coming onto the pitch, she produced a composed finish into the bottom corner to extend the Saints’ lead to 3–0.
Castle Rushen responded positively and launched a series of attacks, but the Saints’ defence stood firm. Aoife Sharkey-Dowling and Morgan Braidwood made some fantastic tackles to keep CRHS at bay, while goalkeeper Millie Alman was excellent when called upon, making important saves to preserve the clean sheet.
All 16 girls put in a fantastic shift, showing great teamwork, determination and commitment in difficult conditions. The final whistle confirmed an excellent 3–0 victory for St Ninian’s, with Lara Smith voted Player of the Match for her outstanding performance.
A brilliant team effort from the Saints as they continue their unbeaten run!
Goals: Lara Smith, Ela Blakemore, Lois Coppell
Player of the Match: Lara Smith