Salthill Devon are looking forward to contesting thhe FAI Senior Ladies’ Cup semi-final later this month after an emphatic 4 - 0 victory over last year’s finalists St Catherine’s of Dublin on Sunday.
The Saltill ladies, enjoying home advantage, were three up before the break - a somewhat unexpected scoreline against a side that finished 3 - 2 winners in last month’s friendly.
Salthill started the game with great tempo and no shortage of commitment, particularly in central mid-field where experienced stalwarts Meabh De Burca and team captain Ruth Fahy bossed the game.
With the midfield exchanges being won, and wingers Jenny Critchley and Julie-Ann Russell, creating havoc down the flanks, it was only a matter of time before Salthill would open the scoring. It arrived when Russsell made a great run down the left before crossing into the box for striker Kara Mullins to volley past the helpless keeper.
Salthill maintained the pressure and five minutes later they made it 2 - 0 with a classy finish from the impressive Lucy Hannon.
With half time approaching St Catherine’s were awarded a free kick on the edge of the box, but the Salthill defensive wall stood firm and cleared the ball to the unmarked Hannon who was still in her own half.
Hannon started her run and, with the two wide players Russell and Critchley tearing up the wings and the Dublin defence at sixes and sevens, she weaved her way past three defenders before shooting in the corner of the net for an outstanding goal.
This goal effectively killed of the game, but to St Catherine’s credit, they never gave up. Salthill were solid at the back with centre halves Emer Flatley and Becky Walsh in dominant form. Full back Aine Hannon had a brilliant game before she retired injured, and at right back Salthill had a contender for player of the match in Deirdre Connell.
Tina Hughes had a quiet day, but when tested late in the game, she pulled off a magnificent save that brought a huge round of applause from the large crowd watching.
With five minutes remaining Critchley finished the scoring with a fine individual effort.
Salthill: Tina Hughes, Aine Hannon, Deirdre Connell, Emer Flatley, Becky Walsh, Jenny Critchley, Meabh De Burca, Ruth Fahy (Capt. ), Julie-Ann Russell, Kara Mullins, Lucy Hannon. Subs, Dora Gorman, Tessa Mullins, Annette Clarke, Rebecca McPhilbin, Sarah O’Connell, Caroline Carter, Laura Carrol, Lauren Ashmore.
