ULSTER U14 JUNIOR SCHOOLS CUP FINAL

Tuesday 14^th March

Banbridge Academy 1

Wallace HS 0

The Ulster u14 Junior cup is a cup that has been running from 1944 and is one of the largest competitions in Ulster Girls Hockey with 37 u14 teams from across the province competing for the title.  Banbridge Academy u14 Girls hockey team last won the competition in 2013, the first time in its history.  With strong wins along the way against Larne GS, Friends SL, Belfast HS and the B.R.A. in the semi-final the road to the final had filled the local girls with plenty of determination to bring home the cup.

The faced Wallace HS on Tuesday 14 March at Stormont another strong side that had battle their way to the final by winning on strikes against RS Dungannon.  The scene was set for a great final

The match started with some nerves however both sides did not show much weakness in any area.  Banbridge academy found the most pressure in the centre midfield, but Charlotte Betts coped very well and went toe to toe with her opposite number.  In defence Ruby Johnston and Sophie Tate ensured the defence was composed and supported the attack as well. The Banbridge girls were awarded a short corner which was saved by the Wallace keeper and the first half ended scoreless.

The second half continued to be tight however Katie Leslie came through very strong on the left-hand side of the pitch and link up well with Alyssa Somerville and Mollie Tumilty up front. Nancy McCusker also had attacking opportunities down the right wing with a couple of crosses going past the far post.  When Banbridge were awarded another short corner, they knew they had to grab their opportunity, and that is exactly what they did in the rebound from the top strike, captain Sophie Tate managed to slot the goal in at close range. During the remaining 16 mins the whole team had to weather pressure from Wallace and had to defend their lead. However, during the last 5 mins Banbridge played with great confidence and managed to ensure the ball didn’t come too close to their own goal. The final whistle blew and the Banbridge Academy team where crowned Junior Ulster Champions.  The team wishes to thank all clubs, coaches and family that have supported them along the way as this has been a whole team effort to achieve this.

They now have the opportunity to play in the All Ireland Junior Schools June Smith Tournament on 20^th April in Leinster.  This will be the first time the school will have competed at this, and the school is looking forward to the challenge.