Randles Brothers Intermediate Championship

24th August 2020 Venue: Tullig, Spa, Killarney

Spa 4-10 Kilcummin 1-5

Spa Senior Ladies won their first championship match at home against neighbours Kilcummin. The ladies were first off the mark with Niamh Kearney pointing a great score. Followed shortly by Cassandra Buckley. However, Kilcummin hit back scoring 1-2 in quick succession. Their forwards had our defence under fierce pressure but under the captaincy of Ciara Moynihan who settled her teammates and began to take charge. Ciara herself made numerous solo runs through the centre to deliver the perfect ball to the eagerly awaiting forward line which produced excellent scores.

Niamh Kearney was brought out to the half forward line from her usual full, played a blinder and was continuously on the ball which resulted in her being pulled down resulting in a penalty being rewarded to Spa from referee Christy Crowley. She stepped up and left little chance for the goalie to save. Niamh tapped over another point. In the 10th minute Saoirse Kelly scored a cracker of a goal to the top left hand side of the goal.

After the water break Kilcummin scored their next point and last point of the first half. Spa were in full control and Karol Fleming slotted our 3rd goal into Kilcummin’s net. Niamh Kearney added another two to bring an end to the first half of a very wet and windy night in Spa. Spa 3-5 Kilcummin 1-3.

It was all Spa in the second half with the visitors notching over only two more scores. This was a real team effort and the girls played as a team. Great to see our goalkeeper Linda Bruggener back between the posts. Our full back line lead by the athletic Ciara Moynihan along with Elisabeth Stack and new comer Aisling Mahony were solid.

The Benjamin Button of the team Katie O Brien was exceptional picking up the breaking ball around the centre along with Mairead Bennett and Gina Crowley. Midfielders Lottie Maher and Cassandra were superior and instrumental with many scores. Our forwards all played their part and constantly poked holes in Kilcummin’s defence. They passed the ball with precision and took their scores with precision. Top scorer, Niamh Kearney deserves a special mention for her work rate and being a menace to Kilcummin back line.

Next outing is at home Friday 28th Aug against Austin Stacks and will be hoping for another win under their belts.

Best wishes to Claire Moynihan in her chosen career in Dublin as she’s a huge loss to our team.

Spa: Linda Bruggener, Elisabeth Stack, Ciara Moynihan, Aisling Mahony, Gina Crowley, Katie O Brien, Mairead Bennett, Loreta Maher, Cassandra Buckley (0-2), Mags Cronin, Niamh Kearney (1-6), Liadh Tobin, Lynn Jones (0-1), Saoirse Kelly (2-1) and Karol Fleming (1-0): Subs: Katie O Connor, Roisin Kearney, Orlaith Spillane, Grainne Spillane, Elena O Donoghue and Claire Moynihan. (unlimited subs in 2020 championship/league)

(Photos: Anne Holland)