COLERAINE Women Reserves made a winning start to their NIWFA Division 7 campaign by coming out on top in a five-goal thriller against Antrim Town Swifts…
The Reserves controlled possession from the outset, linking passes confidently as they settled into the match. Their early dominance created several chances, giving them the momentum to push forward in numbers.
Despite their strong start, it was Antrim Town Swifts who broke the deadlock in the 39th minute.
However, the Reserves responded almost immediately. A swift counterattack, initiated by Niya McIntyre, saw Aoibhe Wilson calmly slot the ball past the goalkeeper just three minutes later, sending the sides into half-time level.
Determined to build on their first-half performance, Coleraine stepped up their intensity after the break. Their efforts were rewarded in the 59th minute when Kyla McGivern unleashed an unstoppable volley, underlining the quality of football on display.
The Reserves continued to press and were further rewarded in the 77th minute. Sam Miskimmon fired a stunning effort from outside the box to extend the lead to 3–1. Antrim Town Swifts, however, showed commendable resilience and pulled a goal back in the 84th minute, setting up a tense finish.
Goalkeeper Hayley Mathieson produced a series of outstanding saves late on, ensuring the Reserves maintained their advantage. Displaying excellent composure and game management, the team successfully saw out the match to claim a valuable three points.