COLERAINE Women made the long journey to Armagh for a fiercely contested Division 2 battle, ultimately falling to a narrow 2-1 defeat despite a spirited and determined performance…
The visitors were slow to settle in the opening 10 minutes, but once they found their rhythm, they grew confidently into the game. Driven by sheer determination and grit, the team created several promising chances, with Cara McCloskey coming closest early on when her effort rippled the side netting.
Unfortunately not long after this it was Armagh who found themselves ahead with a goal. Goalkeeper Hayley Mathieson kept Coleraine firmly in the match with a string of crucial saves, showcasing excellent reflexes under pressure.
Controversy struck midway through the first-half when Coleraine were denied what looked to be a clear penalty after a handball in the box — a decision that sparked frustration but also seemed to ignite the team.
That spark led to a breakthrough, as Sammy Miskimmon found the net with a composed finish to bring Coleraine level. Moments later, Rachel Stewart nearly equalised with a towering header from a corner, only to be denied by a superb fingertip save from the Armagh keeper.
As the game wore on, Coleraine looked the more dangerous side, especially in the final 20 minutes, pressing high and forcing Armagh into their own half. However, a brief lapse in concentration allowed the hosts to snatch a second goal against the run of play.
Undeterred, Coleraine continued to pile on the pressure. Their defence stood resolute, throwing bodies on the line to keep the contest alive. Shairee McVey with relentless slide tackles in a last attempt to stop the opposition, while the attack surged forward with relentless energy. Despite chance after chance in the dying minutes, the equaliser proved elusive.
It was a performance full of heart, courage, and battling spirit from Coleraine — one that deserved more than the scoreline suggests.