League title for Glenanne

GLENANNE’S women’s seconds secured the league title on Saturday with a draw away to Botanic.

The Tallaght side took the lead at the top of the table just before Christmas and never faltered in the new year securing 14 wins, 2 draws and only one loss with one match left to play.

The game against Botanic was a ‘top of the table’ clash with the home team (Botanic) needing a draw or win to keep their promotion dreams alive.

It proved to be a very tight game with Botanic capitalizing on a ball crossed into the circle to slot it in past Susan Byrne in goal.

Glens had their chances in the first half with Anna Keogh hitting not one but both posts as the ball miraculously bounced back out into open play and was cleared over the sideline.

The second half was just as fast paced as the first with Anna Kerrison in midfield dominating the play and releasing the forwards with some skillful play but the all elusive goal to level the game was not forthcoming.

Glenanne left it so late in the game that just before the final whistle Botanic had a 1-0 lead when a short corner was given in favour of the visitors.

With 10 players surrounding the circle Glenanne’s Keziah Hood played a superb ball to Niamh McCarthy who had her shot stopped illegally on the line and a penalty stroke was awarded.

Anna Keogh made no mistake and levelled the game from the penalty stroke.

The draw moved Glenanne out of reach at the top of Division Six and they were crowned league champions.

Glenanne Women’s 2s were not finished for the weekend with the Semi-Final of the Division 5/6 Shield scheduled for Sunday against Rathgar in Glenanne Park.

Glenanne started out nervously with Anna Keogh finding the post for a second day in a row.

Rathgar replied strongly and looked threatening on the break but neither team were able to capitalize on their chances with the half time score Glenanne 0-0 Rathgar.

The hosts started the second half the stronger team and a quick ball across from the left hand side met Izzy Bolger who deflected it into the goal meaning the 3rd quarter finished Glenanne a goal to the good.

The fourth quarter started with a Rathgar attack, and with Glenanne were unable to clear the ball out of the circle, Rathgar slotted it home to level the game leaving all to play for in the final stages.

Level heads from the home side of saw Captain Lydia Redmond slot in from a scramble in front of the Rathgar goal leaving the final score in Glenanne Park- Glenanne 2-1 Rathgar.

The defending Division 5/6 Shield Champions are back in the final for a second year in a row. The finals will take place on the weekend of April 1st/2nd.

For full access to all content on Echo.ie and to support the continuation of local news and local journalism in your community subscribe HERE.

Thanks for your ongoing support.