A report by an up and coming Boardsmill LGFA reporter….

Unaccustomed as I am to writing match reports, I felt compelled to throw a few lines together for our U15 girls footballers in their D4 league match against our neighbours Longwood. The 5:45pm throw in was a little risky before the clocks jump forward at the weekend but referee Frank Heavey got the game under way on time without any delays. Longwood travelled in big numbers with their panel of 21 players ready for action. The Boardsmill girls lined out 1 to 13, a few COVID strikes and other casualties had us down to the minimum as they strode into position to face Longwoods full compliment of 15.

A nip and tuck first quarter played at a brisk pace had the visitors taking the early lead. Half time arrived on cue and the margin between the teams was 1-02.

The girls rallied together for the half time break, no oranges for this bunch, just good old fashioned commitment to drive on for the next quarter and see what happens.

From the throw in possession was won and the pressure was ramped up on the Longwood defence, who were still playing with the full 15 while having the additional comfort of fresh legs coming on throughout the game. Great spirit and effort from all the Boardsmill girls yielded their purple patch bringing the difference down to the minimum, one point separated the teams now.

The final break was called, another slug from the water bottles to refresh tired legs and bodies as they headed out for the last quarter. The game got away from them in the end with the final result 3-06 to 6-13 but they learned a huge amount this evening, the can hold their heads up high knowing that they played their best, fair play to all our girls. Fair play .. sure it’s hard to beat.

We are out again next Friday evening away to Clonard , Throw in is 6:15. No need to worry about the dying light, sunglasses at the ready.