Report written by Niamh:
The match opened at a swift pace, with both teams showing just how evenly matched they were. From the first centre pass, the contest was tight and intensely competitive with quick ball movements, sharp defensive pressure and confident shooting at both ends. We battled well in centre court throughout the game with a rotation of Grace, Olivia, Loretta and Niamh from Cardies. Neither side were willing to give an inch, especially in defence thanks to a great far lean from Cardies’ goalkeeper Grace B. As the game progressed, the intensity increased. Mid-court battles were fierce with every turnover hard-earned and every possession hotly contested. At the end of the first and second quarters, the teams were only divided by a single point. Following their final team talks, both sides continued to push for turnovers, passes and interceptions. With accurate transitions down the court, Catherine from Cardies managed a few tips here and there from the edge of the D to our wingers Taliah, Alice and Jess. By the time the final whistle sounded, one team had doubled the point difference. But which one? Cardinal Heenan – with a score of 8-4 and player of the match Niamh.