Skryne Prove Too Strong for Boardsmill
Match Report: Skryne 2-15 – 1-12 Boardsmill
Skryne delivered a commanding performance to secure a 2-15 to 1-12 victory over a spirited Boardsmill side in an action-packed encounter. A fast start, relentless teamwork, and standout individual efforts ensured the win, with all 15 players – and impact from the bench – playing a vital role in the result.
The tone was set from the throw-in when Ciara Smyth slotted over the opening point within seconds, kicking off what would become a sensational personal tally of 0-9. Smyth remained a constant threat in attack, linking play cleverly and finishing clinically throughout.
In goal, Colleen Jordan provided a calm and assured presence, pulling off a key save in the second half to keep Skryne in control. In front of her, the defensive unit was superb. Ciara Cowley and Aisling O’Connor were rock solid at the back, with O’Connor also contributing significantly to forward momentum, combining with Rachel O’Dowd to win a crucial free converted by Ellie Murphy. Niamh Cowley impressed with her reading of the game, making a number of important interceptions and tackles, while Ailish Lenehan, Kate Gibbons, and Lizzy Moreland worked tirelessly to stifle the Boardsmill attack. Moreland’s aggressive burst forward helped earn a free that Murphy again calmly slotted over.
Midfield pairing Aine Keogh and Catriona Keoghan controlled the centre, breaking up play and launching several attacks. Keoghan’s interception and link-up play led to a well-taken point by Murphy, and Keogh was involved in several key passages of play.
Up front, Skryne’s forwards were in fine form. Fiona O’Rourke notched an excellent goal after a slick move involving Róisín McManus, who herself had a standout game, finishing with 1-3, including a superb long-range point and another goal set up by O’Rourke and Smyth. Abbye Donnelly showed great awareness and work rate, linking midfield and attack effectively. Rachel O’Dowd battled well before being replaced by Niamh O’Brien, who immediately made an impact, featuring in the build-up to a Smyth point. Ellie Murphy was composed throughout, contributing three points, including a vital free, and showing excellent vision in attack.
Despite going down to 14 players in the second half due to a sin bin, Skryne showed immense character and resilience. Rather than faltering, the team pulled together — defending bravely and pushing forward to extend their lead. That period of adversity became a turning point, highlighting the team’s unity and determination.
Substitutes Niamh O’Brien, Amy O’Dowd, and Alannah Cooney all added fresh legs and energy in the latter stages. Amy combined neatly with Ciara Smyth for another point, while Alannah contributed well across the pitch as Skryne closed out the game with composure.
It was a team effort from start to finish – from the defensive solidity to the midfield control and attacking flair. Skryne now look forward with confidence, buoyed by a strong collective display, grit in the face of a setback, and a well-earned win.
Subs: Niamh O’Brien for Rachel O’Dowd
Amy O Dowd for Kate Gibbons.
Team:
Colleen Jordan, Ciara Cowley, Niamh Cowley, Ailish Lenehan, Kate Gibbons, Lizzy Morland, Aisling O’Connor, Aine Keogh, Catriona Keoghan,
Fiona O’Rourke (1-0), Abbye Donnelly, Rachel O’Dowd, Róisín McManus (1-3), Ellie Murphy (0-3, 1f), Ciara Smyth (0-9)
Subs used : Niamh O’Brien, Amy O Dowd and Alana Cooney
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