The first match of the 25/26 season was eagerly looked forward to by the team. Playing their first match for Gorey were Mary Butler, Cora Dunne, Hannah Leacy, Lil Murphy and Rachel Harkin.
It was a lovely autumn day for the visit to Wexford Wanderers. Zoe D’Arcy was team captain. The matched started with a couple of knock-on’s to Gorey but within 5 mins Wexford broke through for the first score of the match.
The Wexford game play was clear and effective, hard running that soaked up Gorey defenders. There was plenty of tackles and Zoe led by example with her tireless efforts. Amelia Doherty had a super tackle to bring down a Wexford player who seemed nearly twice her size. The forwards played their hearts out but were overrun. Hannah Leacy’s speed was impressive as she ran half the pitch in an effort to prevent a try. Off a Wexford scrum, Rachel Harkin on the wing in her first match was suddenly faced with 3 attackers and although she stopped the ball carrier, Wexford scored.
The second half was a bit better but still tough. There was plenty of effort by the team and some good play too; defence was better, a super kick gained half the pitch and Hannah and the backs nearly broke through a couple of times. A tough start and loads to work on in training.
It was great to see Izzy Maher coming down to support the team.
Up next is Wicklow, in the first of 3 home matches.
New players are welcome; training is on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7:30pm.
