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Armagh To Sixy For Carrick
Armagh for the third year running took a step into the semi-finals of the all Ireland plate on Sunday, when they brushed aside Carrick on a very wet and heavy pitch. The Conditions suited the very heavy Carrick pack on paper, but Armagh starved them of possession all day. Armagh, who have now been runners up for 2 years in a row in this competition, put in a comfortable display of controlled rugby. Armagh were without Lynne Beattie, Jenna Stewart, Nicky Cook and Gillian Oliver, but still went on to record a big win.
Captain Susan Anderson who was awarded player of the match, was on fire, scoring 3 tries with style, the last of which was a huge break from the 10 metre line, running through the opposition fullback to score under the posts. Susan popped up everywhere in support, and tackling like a demon. Charlene Fraiser came into the team after a season layoff and took up where she left off, with some very big hits. Christine Robb moved into outhalf where she was a constant thorn in Carricks side, claiming 2 tries 3 conversions and setting up various other scores. Clare Knipe proved it takes more than 5 Carrick players to stop her as she touched down 2 tries, one from the half way mark beating 6 players.
Cheryl Hamilton scored a good try after a quick penalty tap and a burst over the line. Sandra Anderson carried good ball all day and got her reward with a good drive close to the line, to score under the posts.
Leslie McGarrity showed her pace on the wing to score her first try for Armagh. Megan Burgess got a well deserved try, after a lot of hard work in the loose, Sara Orr who played the last 5 minutes because of the flu scored in the corner after a nice dummy pass to the fullback.
Overall a good quality, fast match which Armagh have threatened all season.
The semi-finals will be played on the 18th March and Armagh are at home to Old Belvedere, who have been scoring very well in the Plate.
Armagh will have a big home support advantage and will be concentrating on reaching another all Ireland final for themselves and the club. |
