Played on a heavy, soggy pitch, but in cool sunshine, this was a thrilling and entertaining match played with full commitment from both sides.
Vale started strongly, putting some pressure on Nurney’s defence, where Hannah Carroll and Rebecca Bermingham were excellent. Nurney’s midfield got a foothold on the game, with Sarah Murphy and Nikola Deka making some surging runs, which led to a series of corners for Nurney. However, they were unable to take advantage. Vale’s attackers were causing some problems for Nurney’s defence, particularly on the counterattack, with Roisin Collins on the right wing in particular, being a real threat, with her skill, speed, strength and determination.
It was from a quick counterattack that Vale opened the scoring, with a lovely ball in behind the Nurney defence releasing Kate Burke who reached the ball ahead of the Nurney goalie, Zara Farrell, to slot into the corner.
Just a couple of minutes into the second half, Vale went two up. Kate Burke won the ball from a goal kick, and from just outside the area struck a terrific shot inside the far post for her second goal of the game.
Nurney didn’t allow their heads to drop and came back strongly. Natalia Deka came very close with a well struck effort from just inside the area that flew inches by the post. Some good passing exchanges in Nurney’s midfield led to a goalmouth melee, with Sarah Murphy eventually getting the ball over the line to pull a goal back for Nurney.
Nurney continued pushing forward, with Holly Murphy putting in great work and they went close several times with the excellent Ellen Barrett. Vale, however, were very strong in defence, with Lily Maher in particular, putting in a great shift, and they were a constant threat on the break, with Sarah Devine in midfield and Pia Walsh up front impressing. Vale held on to see out the 2-1 win, and well done to both teams for a terrific match.