After the closely fought game against Instonians at Crommelin Park last week, Donaghadee travelled to near neighbours Holywood, currently flying high at the top of Senior 4, to Donaghadee’s somewhat lower position. Despite not being far to travel, captain Katie Drummond was struggling for players right up to the eleventh hour, with work commitments and illness taking their toll on the small club. Holywood are a very capable side, and having come down from Senior 3 at the end of last season, they weren’t long in showing the Dee girls the pace and skill involved in the higher league.

The first half was a bit of a rout to be honest; Donaghadee never really got going, and they were punished accordingly by the rampant Holywood attack. A major reshuffle by coach Brian McKee at half time saw 2 forwards up front with four in midfield – a line up more akin to football rather than the usual hockey 3 forwards and 3 midfielders. Whether this put Holywood on the back foot a little, or gave the Donaghadee girls a renewed sense of purpose, they really got stuck in in the second half, even having a couple of threatening situations in the Holywood circle, and managing to hold Holywood to two goals in the second half.

Much work still to be done on the training pitch, but there are signs that the drills are starting to make it through to match situations on a Saturday, and the girls will continue to learn apace from the coaching expertise of Brian. Thanks to Alfie for umpiring. Next match is against Newcastle at home on Saturday, pass back 2pm when the Dee will be looking to take some points from the team directly above them in the league. Fitness continues on Monday nights at 7pm, with skills training on Wednesdays at Crommelin Park from 7.15 sharp.