Our journey through hockey in Ulster and Ireland continued on Saturday evening as we covered three of Irish hockey’s oldest clubs in the women’s Ulster Senior League. Club KV, an amalgamation of Knock Ladies and Victorians Ladies hockey clubs, entertained the North West giants Priorians at The Dub.
As a new amalgam of two of Ireland’s most famous clubs Club KV are really only getting to set their stall out this season and the young side struggled against the more seasoned Priorians who were looking to get their season up and running after a disappointing start.
The North West side enjoyed the bulk of the play in the first half but only had a goal from the hard working Emma Allen, to show for their efforts. KV’s keeper proved an effective last line of defence and she kept her defenders organised, the right back, in particular, putting in a big shift.
KV came more into the game in the second half and they created a few chances to keep Priorian’s keeper Lizzy Ballentine on her toes. However, KV’s attacking intent did leave a bit more space at the back and Priorian’s were able to take advantage in a seven minute burst with Rachael McSparon, and Bronagh McCauley both scoring either side of a second from Allen.
The game ended as a 0 – 4 win for Priorians but there were plenty of positives for KV, the young side just needing a bit of patience when bringing the ball out of defence.
