Colemanstown Ladies defeated Shiven Rovers 2-0 yesterday, Sunday in the Connacht cup quarter finals. The sun was shining and the pitch was freshly cut for this head to head local battle for a semi final spot. The fine weather brought out the supporters as family and friends were there in their numbers to help support the team. The last game between these two teams in the Galway league, Colemanstown went down to Shiven and got off to a slow start conceding two goals in the first 7mins and losing in the end 3-2. The ladies however have a strong home record and still remain unbeaten since the foundation of this ladies team in 2013. Colemanstown got off to a flying start this time round and went into this game with all guns blazing scoring a goal within 8mins. Striker Anna Grant held up the ball well and played it to Tessa Mullins who did a slick one-two with winger Catherine Burke. Mullins then taking a touch past the Shiven centre back to finish with the outside of her right boot to the far left corner of the goal. A great start to the game for Colemanstown who were also playing against the breeze in the first half. Aisling Kelly took up a new position at right back and excelled in her new role, not afraid of getting her head to some crucial high balls. Deirdre Finn on the opposite side showed her usual leadership qualities with plenty of communication and encouragement to her teammates and was always enthusiastic to go forward and help out midfield on the attack as well as doing her part in defense. Centre backs Emma Roche and captain Orla McCaffrey were busy dealing with a nippy Shiven striker. McCaffrey made a vital tackle with minutes to go in the first half when the number 11 looked like she was in on goal but McCaffrey came out of nowhere and slid across the attacker to clear the ball out over the sideline. After a tough 45mins in the heat, both teams were happy to hear the half time whistle. Colemanstown up 1-0.
After the refreshing half time break both teams knew the next goal in this game would be vital. Shauna Ward in midfield was the engine of the team closing down Shiven play makers whose first touch had to be perfect as Ward was always on their toes to put them under pressure. Colemanstown created a lot of opportunities especially from corner kicks and Kara Mullins was unlucky not to hit the net after meeting a cross from sister Tessa on the head that just went over the bar. Trish Kelly went on a dazzling run and won another corner kick for Colemanstown. Tessa Mullins’ in-swinging ball was met by Grant on the volley for a great finish into the bottom right of the net. Colemanstown parked the bus for the last 15mins of the game but the tricky Shiven striker managed to get through the Colemanstown defence and goalkeeper Marian Murray had no choice but to bring her down. Murray’s game although was flawless throughout. Thankfully Shiven’s no.6 Nora Ward just missed wide on what looked like a dead cert goal that had sent Murray the wrong way. Assistant manager Conor Jackson made some substitutes in the last few minutes including Trish Burke, Ruth Dempsey and Chloe Roche whose fresh legs helped Colemanstown run down the clock to finish the game with a fine 2-0 victory.
Well done to all the squad and management on a great win and thanks to all who came down to support the ladies. Semi final fixture yet to be made. The club wish ladies team members Sarah O’ Connell & Tessa Mullins safe and happy travels as they depart for Boston for the duration of the summer holidays.
Report supplied by Kara Mullins, Ladies team manager.