2011/12 Match Reports
February 18th
Ladies1xi
DIV 3: BRAY 1 – 1 PEMBROKE
Bray faced Pembroke, their recent cup opponents, in their league fixture last Saturday at their home grounds. Both sides were eager to take the lead and the fast pace kept both teams under pressure. Excellent attacks down the right hand side from Tara Kelly, Michelle Lambert and Nikki Bell broke through the Pembroke defence. Great balls in from Lambert found the stick of striker Cheryl Cox whose shots were saved by the Pembroke keeper. Midfielders Jane Farrell and Sinead Duffy worked hard to defend when Pembroke attacked but a well executed Pembroke move saw one of their shots hit the back of the Bray goal to put them in front. Bray fought back hard and clever ball from Katie Burgess found forwards Jessica Carey and RachelMaguire who continued to seek an equaliser. There was plenty of drama in the second half when a shot from Maguire was defended by a Pembroke player with her hand which meant Bray were awarded a penalty stroke. Cheryl Cox stood up to the mark to take the shot for the Bray side. Cheryl made no mistakes and her shot swept past the keeper into the Pembroke goal. With two minutes remaining Bray didn't sit back and continued to attack searching for the winner. Time was not on their side however and solid defence by Mairead Mahon, Aoife Mulford and Dianna Dunne ensured Bray held on to their valuable draw.
Ladies 3xi
DIV 11: BOTANIC 1 – 2 BRAY
Bray faced Botanic in a very evenly paced match. Bray controlled most of the possession, but Botanic were very quick on the breaks. Bray worked the ball around the pitch well thanks to Sam Henson and Heather Storey. Smart passing between Sinead O’Toole and Sarah Martin resulted in Sarah smashing a ball passed the goal keeper.
In the second half Botanic scored on the break. Great defending from Ally O’ Leary and Claire Prendergast kept Botanic from scoring again. Hannah Holden scored a brilliant goal minutes before the final whistle, leaving the score at 2-1. Bray to play Pembroke next Saturday.
Men 1xi
Weston 0-0 Bray
In a contest between 2 of the divisions top teams, neither side could get the better of the other in what was a tight and hard fought game. Bray may feel as though they could've done more having had much of the possession but struggled to break down a strong defense as they played some predominantly route one hockey. Despite that, they did come close to scoring on a few occasions, particularly in the second half and Jayson Kenney came closest, deflecting a Sean Brennan pass onto the post. A positive that the visitors should take from the game was the play of Chris Doyle in net as he made a number of good saves when called upon and was well deserving of keeping a clean sheet.
Men 1xi
Div 7: Bray 1-1 St. Brendans
For the second week running Bray found themselves frustrated as a strong defensive performance from the visitors from the Phoenix Park.
Bray looked like they would go on to run up the score when Adam Brennan deflected in a shot off a short corner after only 5 minutes. This was not to be the case as although they enjoyed the lion share of possession they failed to make it tell and when the visitors equalised from a short corner with 10 minutes to go it proved to be a cruel blow to the home side. The draw leaves Bray 3rd and still in with a shout of winning the division.
Men 2xi
Div 8: St. James' Gate 4-0 Bray 2nds
The 2nds went on the road hoping to break a run that had seen them lose 4 in a row. Their opposition were a physical St. James' Gate side pushing for promotion and it didn't take long for the home side to press home their superiority, scoring early and often.
In truth it was a one sided affair with Bray looking unorganised with a number of players playing positions alien to them. The visitors, were dejected however they can take heart from good individual play from their youngsters which will result in better days ahead for the team and club alike.
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February 11th & Ladies 1xi Semi Final Cup Games
Ladies1xi
Bray 2 -1 Railway Union
With Bray eager for three points they began Saturdays match with fierce determination. Excellent attacks from Bray Captain Eimear Willis found other forwards Jessica Carey and Erin O'Sullivan who attacked the Railway Goal. But it was Eimear herself who took an excellent strike from the top of the circle which found the back of the goal. The midfielders Jane Farrell, Jennifer O'Neill and Sinead Duffy had a difficult task attacking and working back to defend but excellent work by the Bray backline ensured Railway were not allowed back into the game. An unlucky decision just before half time say Railway gain a short corner which was well executed and found the back of the Bray goal. The sides remained equal at half time and it became clear that both sides were eager for the win. Bray midfielders Sinead Duffy and Jennifer O'Neill continued to create chances and just before the final whistle blew Erin O'Sullivan found the stick of Jessica Carey who pushed it into the goal. A well deserved victory for the home side which puts them within three points of the league leaders.
Ladies 1xi Semi Final
Bray 0 – 0 Pembroke, 0-0 ET, Bray won 4-3 on penalties
On Sunday Bray faced Pembroke for their semi-finals in their home grounds. Bray were the stronger of the two sides in the first half with excellent attacks on the right hand side by Tara Kelly, Jennifer O'Neill and Eimear Willis. Bray were very unlucky not to take the lead early on when an excellent pass by Erin O'Sullivan found Rachel Maguire who just missed the goal. The Bray backline Cheryl Cox, Mairead Mahon and Aoife Mulford continued to clear the Bray lines and keep the Pembroke team from shooting. Good work in the centre of the park from Jane Farrell and Sinead Duffy kept the attacks going. Pembroke settled in the second half and attacked the Bray goal more but excellent clearances from Dianna Dunne kept the Bray side in it. The defence short corner team was superb in clearing the dangerous balls from the circle. At the final whistle the scores remained
at 0-0. The next step was fifteen minutes extra time which failed to separate the teams and so the match came down to penalty flicks. The Bray penalty flicks were taken by Erin O'Sullivan, Cheryl Cox, Rachel Maguire, Sinead Duffy and Jennifer O'Neill but special mention must go to Bray goalkeeper Danielle Doyle who not only had an outstanding weekend but saved Pembroke's final penalty flick which saw Bray through to the Leinster League Cup Final to be played on the 15th of April. Thanks also to the Bray Supporters who came out in great numbers to cheer on the team on Sunday.
Ladies 2xi
Muckross 2- 0 Bray
Bray ladies 2nds had a tough game away to Muckross at the weekend. Bray started very well with great play up the left hand side through Clare Byrne and Aishling Delahunty linking up with Yani Scully Lane and Vanessa Sumner up front. Bray won a penalty corner and whilst Caroline Kennedy pounced on the ball it was unlucky that her shot went wide. Muckross made a break with quick passing which lead to the first goal of the game. There was great play from Bray in the middle of the pitch with strong play from Nikki Bell and Avril Burgess. Bray continued to challenge Muckross with excellent play from Aishling Delahunty in midfield linking up with Helen Kingston and Debbie Lee. Despite Brays best efforts they failed to find a way through the Muckross defence. Muckross continued to attack and scored a second goal late into the second half. To give a final score of 2-0.
Ladies 3xi
Bray1-1 Newbridge
Bray were slow out of the blocks as Newbridge dominated the early part of the game. Bray defended well keeping Newbridge at bay, but failed to play smart hockey, leaving some passes wasted. Good play between Heather Storey, Sinead O'Toole and Debobie Lee kept the ball in the Newbridge half. The first half ended will no goals on the score board. In the second half Bray were more focused and began attacking. Great defense from Ali O'Leary and Claire Prendergast kept Newbridge out of the Bray circle. With 8 mintutes to go, a fabulous strike from Sinead O'Toole gave Bray a 1-0, But within 2 minutes, Newbridge had scored an equaliser. Bray were glad to take the point, but were dissapointed as this didn't follow their recent winning streak. Bray to play Botanic next Saturday.
Men 1xi
Weston 0-0 Bray
In a contest between 2 of the divisions top teams, neither side could get the better of the other in what was a tight and hard fought game. Bray may feel as though they could've done more having had much of the possession but struggled to break down a strong defense as they played some predominantly route one hockey. Despite that, they did come close to scoring on a few occasions, particularly in the second half and Jayson Kenney came closest, deflecting a Sean Brennan pass onto the post. A positive that the visitors should take from the game was the play of Chris Doyle in net as he made a number of good saves when called upon and was well deserving of keeping a clean sheet.
Men 2xi
Bray 2nds 0-2 Navan.
On a frustrating afternoon for the hosts, they went down 2-0 to Navan in a game where the scoreline truly did not reflect the story of the game. Bray for the most part were in the ascendancy, creating several chances inside the opening half hour but their forwards lacked a killer instinct to get the hosts in front. The game was tied until the middle of the second half when the visitors scored on the counter attack, a cruel blow and one that served to increase the desperation for Bray to score. Cian Hussey will be left to rue a couple of guilt edged chances a few minutes apart as their conversion would've turned the game on its head and given the home side a deserved lead. Unfortunately time would run out on Bray, but not before Navan notched a second goal to end the game as a contest.
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February 4th & Men Cup Games
Ladies1xi
Div 3 Bray 4 – 0 Skerries
Bray ladies firsts took on Skerries at their home ground in Bray last Saturday. Both sides started strongly with attacks on both goals early on. Bray goalkeeper Danielle Doyle had an outstanding game clearing all shots from the sherries forwards. A short corner awarded to the Bray side five minutes from half time was passed by Jennifer O'Neill through to Rachel Maguire on the left post who sent it into the back of the goal. Bray capitalised on their one goal lead in the second half by continuously putting pressure on the Skerries defence. A well executed run by Jessica Carey from the halfway line into the Skerries Circle saw her shot hit the back of the goal to keep the Bray side in front. Excellent defence from the bray backline Mairead Mahon, Dianna Dunne, Lauren Kelly and Aoife Mulford ensured that Skerries did not take any last minute goals. Bray, eager for more goals continued to attack and Rachel Maguire found the goal again ten minutes from the end. Great play in the centre of the park from Erin O'Sullivan found the stick of Cheryl Cox who controlled it at the top of the circle and took a strike giving the Bray side their fourth goal. A well deserved win from the Bray Ladies firsts which puts them in a strong position near the top of the table. Next Sunday the Bray team play host to Pembroke in the Leinster Cup Semi- Finals.
Ladies 3xi
Div 11 Bray 3 – 3 UCD
Bray took on top of the table UCD this weekend at home. Superb play from goal keeper Claire Prendergast and defender Sam Henson kept UCD at bay. Bray controlled the game well and ended the first half with a 1-0 lead thanks to Debbie Lee.
Early on in the second half UCD got a break in the play and scored an equaliser. Bray continued to push forward, but UCD scored another. Bray then scored a second thanks to creative play between Rachel Maguire, Hannah Holden and finally Sarah Martin who got it in the back of the net, leaving it neck in neck. With six minutes to go, Bray scored a third from Rachel Maguire, and were confident of the win. With 30 seconds to go, UCD scored a third. Bray were unlucky not to win, but were glad to take one point with the final score of 3-3. Bray to play Newbridge at home next week.
Men 2xi
Pembroke 6ths 2-1 Bray 2nds
In a high tempered match up, Bray came out second best as they fell to a loss to a strong Pembroke side. It was a game that started with some sloppy defensive play with the home side scoring in the opening minute. This woke the visitors up and they would start to take over as the first half wore on. They would not get the equaliser their play deserved until the middle of the second half when Cian Hussey fired home. The lack of goals from both sides were directly attributed to excellent play from both 'keepers but Pembroke would end up getting a second with 10 minutes to go and would go on to win the game.
Men 1xi : Quarter Final : Junior Challenge Cup
Rathgar 3rds 1-8 Bray 1sts
This game was a contest before the opening whistle but as soon as it began Bray dominated from start to finish, giving the Chiefs a lesson in hockey. Bray went in front inside 10 minutes with Cian Hussey scoring an audacious lob over the goalie when put in on an aerial ball from Sean Brennan. The visitors were 3-0 up at the break after goals from Emmett McGlinchey and Adam Brennan but the best was yet to come as in the second half Bray turned the screw and tore Rathgar apart. John Lush made a rare run from the back to score his 2nd of the season and this was shortly followed by another Hussey goal. The hosts scored a well taken consolation but it would be no more than that with the Brennan's scoring one each to round off the scoring. The win puts Bray into the semi-finals with the game taking place on the 4th March with the opposition yet to be decided.
Men 2xi : Quarter Final : Minor Cup
Bray 2nds 0-2 Dublin University 4ths
A cold Sunday evening saw Bray take on the students of UCD. The 2nds were looking to continue on the good work started by the 1sts earlier in the day and started very positively, controlling possession and creating some scoring chances inside the 25. Unfortunately, once inside the D, Bray seemed to struggle to put away their chances and were caught on a counter attack midway through the first half. The home side continued as before and continued to press hard, looking for a way to get back in the game. The second half continued where the first left off, Bray holding the bulk of the play and creating opportunities but bar a few close calls they couldn't get on the board and when the students scored a second against the run of play with 2 minutes to spare, the game was killed off, ending hopes of a double semi-final for both men's sides.
Ladies 2xi
Bray ladies 2nds had a mid-table clash away to Clontarf this weekend. Bray started the game with excellent pace and passing, creating a number of chances to open the scoring. Claire Byrne and Vanessa Sumner linked up well to provide passes to Aisling Delahunty, Yani Scully-Lane and Helen Kingston, forcing the Clontarf keeper to stay alert. Good midfield play from Nikki Delahunty and Aoife Kenna kept the pressure on Clontarf and Bray were rewared with a plenty corner. A strike on target from Roisin Ni Chearbhaill was saved but Caroline Kennedy pounced on the rebound to send Bray into the lead. Clontarf stepped up a gear when a goal down and attacked the Bray goal resulting in a goal from a penalty corner just at half time. Bray went seeking out a winning goal in the second half with strong play through the centre from Aoife Kenna and Elaine Sutton creating a number of chances, but good saves from the Clontarf keeper prevented Bray from scoring. bray defend well in the second half with Rani Cameron using her pace and Trish Martin making a few great saves in the bray goal. A disappointing result for Bray however they were glad to secure one league point away from home. Next week the 2nds take on muckross in what is likely to be another tough encounter away from home.
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January 28th
Ladies1xi
Div 3 Our Lady’s 2 – 4 Bray
Bray ladies firsts travelled to Our Ladies. Our Ladies were first on the score board with an early goal from open play. Bray were quick to level the score with a short corner goal scored by Eran o'Sullivan. Our Ladies took the lead once again only for Bray to fight back with a second short corner goal, this time coming from Cheryl o'Toole. It was a high scoring game as Bray went into half time with a 3-2 lead. Thanks to a second goal fired into the top of the net by Cheryl o'Toole. Our Ladies fought back from the start up whistle of the second half. They were awarded numerous short corners but Bray defended well and maintained their lead. Minutes from the end Bray found themselves on the attack. Michelle Lambert received the ball on the right post. Her shot on goal rebounded off the inside post but fortunately Rachel Maguire was there to finish it off to give Bray a 4-2 win.
Ladies 3xi
Div 11 Bray 5-1 Dalkey
Bray maintained their 100% start to 2012 with a crushing defeat of rivals Dalkey. They got off to the perfect start when after controlling possession for a prolonged period, Debbie Lee came up with the opening goal. Sinead O'Toole unleashed a powerful strike from the top of the D on a short corner for the home side's second goal as they continued to dominate the game.
In the second half Dalkey showed signs of a come back when they scored, but Bray weren't going to give up and quickly got another goal from Sarah Martin. Superb play between Claire Murray and Sam Henson kept the Dalkey side at bay and sent a ball to Yani Scully who followed up with goal. Good work between Bray's midfield and the forward line kept the ball in Dalkey's half for the rest of the game. Sarah Martin got a second goal to leave the score 5-1 when the final whistle blew. Bray to play UCD next saturday at home.
Mens 1xi
Bray 3-4 UCD
A hard fought battle was played out at Loreto on Saturday as Bray fell to their first loss of 2012 against a very strong UCD side.
The hosts went in front after Stuart Collier followed up on a rebound from a tight angle. Despite continuing to dominate play the home side conceded 3 without reply due to a combination of sloppy defending and a bit of bad luck. True to form, Bray struck back just before half time after an incredible team move that was finished by Jayson Kenney's deft touch under the 'keeper.
At 3-2, Bray were holding the bulk of possession and pushing on for an equaliser but once more conceded on the counter attack with only 15 minutes to go.
Stuart Collier would score again a few moments later to get them within one but it would prove to be only a consolation as the students would hold on for the win. Bray play Rathgar away in the Junior Challenge Cup next Sunday. Bray 2nds play Dublin Uni. at home on Sunday at 3.30pm
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January 21st
Men 1xi
Div 7 Bray 4-2 Corinthians
After a great performance in the cup last weekend, Bray put in a sluggish effort against Corinthians yet still managed to come out on top. The home side fell behind twice early on but quickly equalised with goals from Jayson Kenney and Cian Hussey. It was only in the second half when they made their class show with Sean Brennan netting a brace to ease the hosts to a comfortable victory. A much better showing will be required when they face UCD at home next weekend.
Men 2xi
Div 8 Bray 2nds 3-1 Corinthians
A high tempo first half ensured an easy victory for the seconds against a veteran YMCA side. Bray led 3-0 at the break, scoring early on when Barry Duff collected a pass wide on the right and after bringing the ball inside the D, unleashed a powerful strike into the bottom left corner. Emmett McGlinchey doubled the lead soon after, tapping home from close range and just before the half Cian Hussey scored after brilliantly striking the ball back across his body past a bewildered 'keeper for a well deserved extension to the home side's lead. The second half performance was a little flat and Bray would give up a consolation goal from a short corner. Even with that they should be delighted in what was for the most part an excellent performance and were merited the 3 points on it.
Ladies 1xi
Div 3 Bray 2 – 2 Muckross
Bray ladies firsts secured a 2-2 draw with league front-runners Muckross on Saturday in an exciting battle of hockey between two evenly matched sides. Both teams worked hard and attacked from the beginning with Bray creating most of the chances in the first half. However an excellent performance by the Muckross goalie frustrated Bray forwards and denied Bray taking the lead. Muckross scored first but their lead was short lived as Bray’s Sineád Duffy clawed one back. The second half took similar shape with strong performances by both sides. Muckross took the lead once again which Bray replied to with a great pass in from Duffy, buried into the back of the goal by Jessica Carey. Bray look forward to next week’s important clash with Our Lady’s Terenure.
Ladies 2xi
Div 8 Sat – Bray 1 - 1 Naas (Aishling Delahunty)
Div 8 Sun – Bray 1 – 1 Malahide (Helen Kingston)
Ladies 3xi
Div 11 Bray 1- 0 Muckross
Bray Ladies 3rds started their match against Muckross well into the evening, but this didn’t dampen
their spirits. Bray were eager to compete from the pass back but played anxiously on the ball. Bray
relaxed as the game went on, and began to play smartly. As the game progressed it was obvious that
Bray were dominating the game, leaving little work for goal keeper Aishling Carthy. Superb work
from defender Claire Murray to Sinead O’ Toole ensured the ball was cleared out of the Bray circle
promptly. The first half ended with a 0-0 score.
Encouraging words at half time got Bray focussed in the game. Bray played strongly up both the
left and right hand sides of the pitch and had numerous chances on goal. In the last 10 minutes, a
ball was sent into the Muckross circle from a free in. Rachel Maguire and Hannah Holden worked
together against the keeper, and Debbie Lee finished it off in the back of the net. Bray were not
going to let the opposition get an equaliser and kept the ball in Muckross’s half until the whistle
blew full time with a 1-0 win to Bray. Bray to play Dalkey next Saturday at home.
January 14th
Cup Weekend in Bray
What an exciting weekend for Bray Hockey Club as three back to back Cup matches on Saturday provided us with a great day out!We had
it all - victory, a narrow defeat and a nail biting golden goal extra time ending in penalty flicks - not to mention all the lovely hot chocolate/ teas/ coffees & treats!
Ladies 1xi
Div3/4 cup: Bray 2- 1 YMCA (Eran O Sullivan got both goals for bray) Bray 1sts will now meet Pembroke 3rds in the cup semi-final
on Sunday 12th February in Bray..
Ladies 2xi
Div 7/8 cup: Bray 0 – 1 Old Alex
Ladies 2nds played Old Alex in the cup at the weekend. Bray started with a fast pace with great passing and link up play. Any attack
from Old Alex was dealt with by strong defence from Roisin Ni Chearbhaill, Caroline Kennedy and great saves by Trish Martin. Bray
threatened down the left through Vanessa Sumner, Yani Scully Lane and Rachel Maguire. The teams remained level at half time. Bray
continued to attack with great play from Aoife and Rachel Kenna. Old Alex were awarded a short corner and managed to score. Bray battled
hard and continued to challange with Nikki Bell and Aishling Delahunty playing well to attack. Bray were awarded a penalty corner with a strong
pass from Aoife Kenna and a shot from Caroline Kennedy just wide. Old Alex defended well for the final minutes and secured the win.
Men 1xi
Bray 3-3 Railway Union 4 (Bray win 5-4 on flicks)
Rounding off a day of cup action, Bray men's 1st team played their first game of the new year in the Junior Challenge Cup in a highly competitive and hard fought game. Bray went behind early but equalised shortly before half-time when Cian Hussey slotted home from a rebound. The visitors were gifted two soft goals to go 3-1 up at the start of the second half and it looked to the onlookers like the game could've been won at that point. The hosts weren't backing down, and turned up the heat on the opposing defense, creating a flurry of chances and finally got their breakthrough when Stuart Collier received the ball on the top of the D and managed to put a reverse stick shot past the goalkeeper. Now in the ascendancy, Bray
pushed on and a few minutes later were on level terms when Adam Brennan put the ball home after receiving a pass that somehow managed to make it all the way across the D. Although the home side pressed hard to get a winner the game went to extra-time. Railway looked most likely to score, coming close on 2 occasions however Bray hung on for 15 minutes and so the contest would end in penalty flicks. Both sides scored on their first 3 attempts with Jerome Anglin, Sean Brennan and Stuart Collier netting for the hosts, however on Railway's fourth Chris Doyle made a great save with an outstretched hand to deny the away side so when Lorcain Miller and Cian Hussey scored their subsequent flicks, Bray won the game cuing a pile-on on the Bray 'keeper. It was a cruel end to an incredible game but Bray will be delighted to move onto the quarter-finals in March.
January 7th
Ladies 3xi
Div 11: Weston 0 - Bray 6
Bray ladies 3rds took the ‘new year, new start’ mind frame with them to play their first match back after the new
year against Weston, and it certainly paid off. Bray dominated the game from the start and were awarded a short corner
within the first few minutes. A shot in from Sinead O’ Toole was finished off by Debbie Lee. Before half time, a second
goal from Debbie Lee left the Bray side 2-0 up.
Bray anticipated a rejuvenated opposition in the second half, but their defensive
trio kept Weston at bay. Superb passing between Hannah Holden and Man of the match Sarah
Martin gave Bray another shot on goal which reached the backboard thanks to Hannah Holden. H
eather Storey and Sonya Griffin continued to attack and both scored goals for Bray. In the last few minutes a break up t
he right hand side allowed Jessica Mulhall to score the last goal of the match, leaving the score at 6-0 to Bray. Bray to play
Muckross at home on the January 21st.
December 10th
Men 1xi
Div 7: Portrane 1 – 5 Bray
Bray moved to within a point of top spot with a big away win against Portrane in the ALSAA. The visitors went in front early when Jayson Kenney fired home from a short corner. Their advantage was doubled soon after when Stuart Collier, from a short corner, flicked the ball low under the 'keeper. Bray pushed on in the second half and turned the game into a rout. Cian Hussey scored the third deflecting in from a tight angle and then Jack Lacey-Curtis ended the game as a contest scoring 2 goals in quick succession, the second in particular scored with excellent composure with a sweep that lifted the ball over the advancing goalie. The hosts scored a consolation goal late on to take a clean sheet away from Chris Doyle but this would be the only negative on a day when Bray put in an excellent performance. They will now look to go top of the table on Monday night when they play Corinthians in Whitechurch.
Ladies 2xi
Div 8: Loreto 2 – 0 Bray
Bray 2nds had a tough game at the weekend when they were forced to play a late game under the floodlights. Loreto were very sharp from the first whistle creating early chances for the home side. Solid defence from Clare Byrne and Caroline Kennedy in the backs kept them at bay. Impressive attacks were made up the wings by Yani Scully Lane and Aishling Delahunty. Things weren’t going Brays way on the night and Loreto capitalised on a short corner putting the score at 1-0 to the home side at half time. Things didn’t get much better in the second half with Brays Captain Seonadh O Leary taking a ball to the nose. Despite valiant efforts from Bray with Avril Burgess and Nikki Bell working tirelessly in mid field. It was not to be Brays day and Loreto secured their 3 points with a 2nd goal late into the second half. Bray play their last game of 2011 away in Malahide next weekend.
Ladies 1xi
Bray ladies firsts took on Clontarf in their last game before the Christmas
break last Saturday. These sides had met recently and Clontarf had come
out on top so Bray were eager to win. The game began at a very fast pace
with good attacks on the right from Michelle Lambert and Erin O'Sullivan.
A strike from left wing Jessica Carey close to the clontarf gaol just
missed the target. Bray kept up the pressure and were awarded a number of
short corners in the first half. The Clontarf defence were quick out to
defend however and the scores remained equal at half time. The second half
began with Clontart dominating and excellent clearances from Trish Martin
kept the Bray side in it. Sweeper Cheryl Cox continued to feed the ball up
the forwards who continued to attack every ball in search of a goal. A
lapse in concentration saw Clontarf hit the Bray Circle and take a strike
which put the away side in front. Determined not to give up the Bray team
fought on and spirited attacks by Jennifer O'Neill, Eimear Willis and
Sinead Duffy in the dying minutes gave some satisfaction to the team that
all is to play for in the second half of the season.
Ladies 3xi
No Game
Men 2xi
No Game
December 3rd
Ladies 1xi
Bray 1 – 0 Muckross (Golden Goal)
Bray Ladies first took on Muckross in the second round of the Leinster Cup last Saturday at their home ground in Bray. These sides had met in the Leinster League at the start of the season where the score had finished at 1-1 so both sides knew from the outset that this would be a close
encounter, and indeed it was. Bray were eager for an early lead and attacks by Bray forwards Erin O'Sullivan and captain Eimear Willis kept the Muckross backline busy. Sinead Duffy and Jane Farrell controlled the centre of the park releasing balls to Jessica Carey and Michelle Lambert who set up excellent opportunities for the forwards to take shots. The muckross keeper kept the scores level at half-time. Muckross took control of the second half but superb play by sweeper Cheryl O'Toole kept the Bray side in it. Muckross were awarded numerous short corners but the bray defence runners, Mairead Mahon,Tara Kelly and Aifoe Mulford cleared each of them. Bray had their share of short corners in the second half and were unlucky not to score. The sides remained level at full time and the match proceeded to golden goal. Bray had pass back for the first half of extra time. Taken my Eimear Willis, Bray set up an attack on the right hand side. The ball was fed through by Erin O'Sullivan to midfielder Jessica Carey who swept it past the Muckross keeper and into the goal. This golden goal after one minute of play secured the win for a well deserved Bray team which sees them into the quarter final to be played on January 14th 2012.
Ladies 2xi
Bray 4 – 3 Muckross (sudden death flicks)
Bray ladies 2nds had a tough draw in the second round of the cup playing Muckross away. Bray settled well into the game with great play down the left from Vanessa Sumner and Rachel Maguire, linking up well with Aishling Delahunty. Muckross attack was well controlled by solid defense from Caroline Kennedy, Rani Cameron and Roisin Ni Chearbhaill. Bray and Muckross were scoreless at half time. Bray came out determined to break the deadlock and had a number of chances with great play from Helen Kingston, Roisin Flynn and Nikki Bell. Despite the best efforts of Bray, with great attacking play and solid defense, the teams remained scoreless at full time to force extra time. It was played under the golden goal rule so both teams tried every effort to out play each other, with Katie Burgess and Sinead Lenihan creating great attacks. However the teams once again remained scoreless and the outcome was decided on flicks. Rachel Maguire, Vanessa Sumner and Nikki Bell scored great goals and were greatly encouraged by a number of excellent saves from Trish Martin in goals who was the star of show. Roisin Ni Chearbhaill took a decisive flick to secure the win for Bray. The seconds are determined to have a good run in the cup competition and are now happily into the next round after a fine performance today.
Ladies 3xi
Bray 0 – 3 Naas
Bray faced Naas, a team in the division below their own in the second round of the cup out at Naas’s home ground. Bray were still on a high from their first round win against Dalkey and were optimistic about coming out on top against the Kildare side. However, Bray were slow to start and were taken aback when Naas went in front early on. This failed to spark the visitors into life, and would fall a further goal behind before half time. After encouraging words from Coach Fleming at half time, Bray finally got into the game. The ladies created chances in the circle but failed to reach the back of the net. Unfortunately Naas got a third goal on a quick break. Bray continued to fight in the circle and were disappointed when the whistle blew for full time, leaving the score at 3-0 handing Bray their first loss after their recent successful form. Bray face YMCA in the league next Saturday at home.
Men 1xi
Wicklow 0- 1 Bray
A Wicklow derby between the only two hockey playing sides in the county provided yet another fiercely contested battle. Bray led midway through the first half when Cian Hussey's strike on goal was deflected away by the keeper only for Jayson Kenney to pounce on the rebound. The visitors controlled possession for the most part of the game and could have had a number of other goals but for some inspired goal keeping from Wicklow's stopper. Bray's performance and result was even better as they played the game without two of their influential players but the team stepped up as a whole and put up a solid effort to not only come away with 3 points and a clean sheet to boot. Bray play away V Portrane next Saturday.
Men 2xi
No Game
November 26th
Men 1xi
Div 7: Bray 1-3 Rathgar
Bray 1sts were dealt a cruel dose of bad luck as they fell to their second loss of the season. The home side went in front early on when Steven Jones slotted home during a goalmouth scramble. This proved to be the high point of the game as only a few moments later, 'keeper Chris Doyle injured his leg in stretching to make a save. He stuck it out till half time and unfortunately the injury count got higher in the second half when Steven Jones was fouled and in the process was badly injured. The visiting team had equalized in between the injury woes and during the second half took advantage of this by adding two further goals. All said credit is due to the men for working hard to the bitter end and not conceding defeat. They will look to get back to winning ways next Saturday away to Wicklow in a local derby.
Men 2xi
Div 8: Bray 2-2 Dublin University
Bray 2nds were looking to steady the ship after losing their previous 3 games against the students from Trinity and put in a strong performance to pick up a point however they will feel as if it was 2 points dropped as they were only moments from taking the victory. Bray conceded midway through the first half despite controlling for the most part however the home side battled on, creating numerous chances yet failed to convert. At 1-0 down and with 10 minutes remaining Bray pushed forward hoping for the equalizer and got it from an unlikely source in Jack Lacey-Curtis coming from right back, calmly collecting the ball on the edge of the D and then unleashing a blast that had the opposing goalie rooted to the spot. Bray looked like they had managed to pull off the win when a few minutes later Dónal Kelly scored to go in front, but Bray were undone by a goal right in the dying moments that meant the sides would split the points in what was an extremely entertaining game.
Men - Cup Game
Minor Cup - Y.M.C.A 3-4 Bray
An excellent cup game was played on Sunday afternoon as the 2nds, coming off a positive game the previous day, made an epic comeback from a 3-1 half time deficit to overcome a strong, spirited performance from the hosts to progress to the next round of the Minor Cup. Bray went 2 down early on as they were slow to get out of the blocks and although they notched their first through Jack Lacey-Curtis' shot that trickled past the keeper to bring them within 1, they gave it right back a moment later when the home side got their third. This seemed to finally stir the Sea-siders as they came out at the start of the second half, all guns blazing, peppering the goalie with shot after shot and got back within 1 when Stuart Collier tapped in. Bray now with the belief they could get another got right back at it and were awarded a penalty flick with only 4 minutes left which was cooly dispatched by Simon O'Connor. At 3-3 the visitors decided to try and end the game in regulation and were awarded a short corner which was to be the last play of the game. The ball was played out to Emmett McGlinchey who shot at the oncoming goalie, his save deflected into the air and was met on the way down by Collier who smashed the ball into the goal for the win. An incredible comeback and a result merited on a fantastic second half performance. G'wan the Bray!!!!
Ladies 2xi
Div 8: Avoca 4 – 2 Bray
Bray ladies seconds had a frustrating game against Avoca this weekend. Bray were slow to get settled into the game which allowed Avoca to gain a two goal led before half time, despite good play from Claire Byrne, Aishling Delahunty and Avril Burgess. Bray regrouped at half time and started with good play from Sinead Lenihan and Rachel Maguire. Bray were awarded a penalty corner, and Nikki Bell took advantage of the rebound to score Brays first goal. Avoca were quick to attack again, resulting in a goal. Bray however continued to attack and Aoife Kenna scored a goal mid way through the second half leaving Bray trailing by one goal. The final ten minute was tense with both teams playing hard, Avoca scored on the break to give a final score of 4-2. It was a disappointing defeat for the seconds.
Ladies 3xi
Div 11 Avoca 0 – 1 Bray
Bray were anticipating to meet an unstoppable team when they stepped on the pitch against top of the table Avoca, but as the game progressed, Bray had as much possession as Avoca did. Superb passing between Aoife Gillen, Heather Storey and Hannah Holden allowed Bray run the ball into Avoca’s circle. Unfortunately Avoca’s keeper kept everything out of the goal. At half time the score remained 0-0.
In the second half Bray were not ready to give up three points and continued to fight. Excellent play from defenders Sam Henson and Rowena Kehoe backed up by goal keeper and man of the match Aishling Carthy stopped every ball that came into Bray’s circle. Bray were awarded a long corner which was taken by Claire Murray into the circle, allowing Sonya Griffin to hit it into the back of the net, leaving the score at 1-0 to Bray. Bray now switched into a more defensive strategy to prevent Avoca scoring an equaliser. Bray were delighted when the whistle blew and were able to give Avoca their first loss of the season.
Ladies 1xi
Bray ladies firsts team faced Clontarf in their opening game of the Irish
Junior Trophy at their home ground in Bray last Saturday. The home side
attacked from the start and excellent play in the first ten minutes from
Erin O'Sullivan, Cheryl O'Toole and Jessica Carey put pressure on the
Clontarf side. Bray were awarded two short corners in the first half and
shots taken were saved by the Clontarf goalkeeper. The sides remained
level at half time. The second half saw Clontarf apply the pressure and
clearances from the Bray backline of Tara Kelly, Dianna Dunne and Aoife
Mulford ensured the Bray side were kept in it. Midfielder Jennifer O'Neill
pulled off outstanding clearances from the Bray circle when the opposition
looked dangerous and Bray goalkeeper Danielle Doyle saved numerous shots
taken by the Clontarf forwards. Clontarf kept up the pressure however and
were awarded a short corner seven minutes from the end which found the back
of the Bray goal. Bray fought back and excellent attacks from Sinead Duffy
saw Bray awarded a short corner at the final whistle. Eimear Willis shot
from the penalty spot was saved however by the Clontarf goalkeeper which
sealed the fate of the home side. Bray take on Muckross next week in the
first round of the Leinster Cup.
November 19th
Ladies 1sts
Div3: TRINITY 1 – 1 BRAY
Bray ladies firsts team faced a tough challenge when they travelled to Santry to take on Trinity college last Saturday. The game started at a thrilling pace with Trinity constantly attacking the Bray defence in the opening ten minutes. Fantastic saves from Bray goalkeeper Danielle Doyle kept the Bray side in it and clearances from Bray backline Aoife Mulford,Tara Kelly and Katie Burgess ensured that the score remained 0-0 at halftime. The second half saw a better composed Bray side and attacks from
Jessica Carey and captain Eimear Willis put the Trinity side under pressure. A quick break from the students however caught Bray off guard and they were awarded a short corner ten minutes into the second half. Trinity scored from this to put the home side in front. Bray were quick to fight back however and an excellent attack from Sinead Duffy found striker Cheryl Cox who buried it into the Trinity goal. With both sides hungry for a win the game continued at a fast pace and Bray forward Erin O'Sullivan was unfortunate not to put Bray ahead when one of her shots hits the post.The game concluded at 1-1, gaining Bray a valuable point in their Leinster League campaign.
Ladies 2nds
DDiv8: BRAY 1 – 2 UCD Bray Ladies 2nds had a top of the table clash with UCD. It was an excellent game of hockey, both teams playing with intensity. UCD scored from open play mid way through the first half. Bray worked hard with great play from Nikki Bell and Helen Kingston and Aishling Delahunty continuing to pressurise UCD. Just before half time Bray equalised with a quick free taken by Avril Burgees and a shot from Vanessa Sumner was finished off by Rachel Maguire. Both teams continued to look to take the lead again in the second half. Despite good defence from Bray, particularly Trish Martin in goals UCS managed to score on a break. It was a frustrating game from Bray who were disappointed to lose 2-1.
Ladies 3rds
Div 11: BRAY 2 – 3 PEMBROKE Bray’s ladies 3rds had their second home match of the season on Saturday against Pembroke Wanders. Pembroke started off the match with a strong attacking forward line. Bray defended well with some great saves by goal keeper Aisling Carthy and by defenders Sarah O’Connor and Sinead O’Toole. However Pembroke kept the pressure on and were eventually rewarded with a goal. Just before half time Bray had a break through centre -mid Hannah O’Connor resulting in a goal by Aoife Gillen.
Bray came out a stronger team in the second half but conceded a second goal from a Pembroke short corner. Sam Henson and Heather Storey attacked well on the left side of the pitch and with two short corners were unlucky not to have scored. Bray continued their strong defence with some excellent tackles by sweeper Catherine Mahony however Pembroke scored a third goal. The score was now 3-1 but Bray didn’t give up. Hannah Holden and Debbie Lee attacked on the right side and were rewarded with a goal by Debbie. Bray continued their attack looking for the equalising goal but time ran out. It finished Bray 2- Pembroke 3. Bray play away next week against Avoca.
Men 1xis
In a battle of 2 clubs looking to go top of the division, Bray and Railway squared off in a very competitive contest. Bray went behind midway through the first half after a scramble inside the D led to a scrappy goal for the visitors. Bray were undeterred by this and continued to have the lion share of possession and late on in the second half their pressure finally told when Jayson Kenney deflected in a strike for his 3rd goal in 2 games. Having drawn level the home side went for the kill, creating a number of chances however they couldn't find the winner and had to settle for a hard earned point. Bray remain in the top 3 and have another chance to go top next Saturday at home against Rathgar at 3.00pm.
Men 2xis
Div 8:CLONTARF 7-0 BRAY
A very organised Clontarf put Bray to the sword in a one-sided game in Mount Temple. The away side worked hard throughout but lacked the firepower at the hosts' disposal and went behind early and were down 4-0 at half time. The second half saw a better showing from the visitors but couldn't get reward for their hard work. They will be hoping for more luck when they play at home against Dublin University next weekend, tip-off at 4.30pm.
November 12th
Men 1sts
Div 7: Bray 3-0 Avoca
Bray continued their good run of form in a one sided defeat of Avoca. The final score didn't truly reflect what was a dominant performance by the home side who created chance after chance. Bray opened the scoring when Jayson Kenney deflected a hit into the D past the keeper into the bottom left hand corner. He followed this up in the second half when he deflected a raised cross from the end line into the top corner, a fantastic finish and well deserved for his general good play during the game. Cian Hussey sealed the 3 points in the last few minutes with a lethal strike into the bottom right hand corner which rounded off a great win. Bray play at home next Saturday v Railway Union.
Ladies 2nds
Div 8: Swords 0 – 1 Bray
Bray ladies 2nds had a good win away to Swords. Bray dominated the first half with excellent play in midfield by Avril Burgees and Vanessa Sumner who linked up well with Aishling Delahunty to score the only goal of the match. Bray continued to threaten through Helen Kingston and Roisin Flynn whil the defence remained solid with good play from Rani Cameron, Roisin Ni Chearbhaill and Caroline Kennedy. Bray face a top of the table clash against UCD next weekend.
Ladies 3rds
Div 11: Bray 4 – 0 Botanic
Bray Ladies 3rds had their first home match of the season against Botanic on Saturday. Bray had possession for most of the first half allowing most of the play to take place in Botanic’s own half. Bray were awarded several short corners but were unable to concede any goals from them. At the half time whistle Bray were frustrated with the 0-0 scoreboard.
In the second half after some encouraging words, Bray were ready to come back for a win. It wasn’t long before Bray were in Botanic’s circle again and Heathor Storey scored, leaving the score at 1-0. Bray were delighted and were ready for more, but Botanic Kept up the fight. Great play from defenders Claire Murray, Catherine Mahony and Sinead O’Toole left goal keeper Aishling Carthy only touching the ball twice for the entire match. A shot from Jessica Mulhall conceded Bray’s second goal which managed to pass through the goalkeeper’s legs. Further attacking from Bray allowed Aoife Gillen to score a third goal for Bray. Excellent play between midfield Hannah O’Connor and forwards Debbie Lee and Claire Prendergast repeatedly got the ball into Botanic’s circle. One last minute attempt from Bray allowed Jessica Mulhall to score her second goal of the match, leaving the final score at 4-0 for Bray and their first league match win of the season. Bray to play Pembroke away next Saturday.
Ladies 1xis
Returning after a three week break, Bray 1sts secured a 1-1 draw with Pembroke on Saturday in what was an exciting, open game of hockey. Bray worked
hard and attacked from the first whistle and dominated play for much of the first half. There were some lovely runs of play from the backs all the way
through to the forwards. Erin Bailey and Cheryl O’Toole put the opposing defence under huge pressure in the circle, eventually putting Bray in the lead
before half time with a brilliant strike from Cheryl O’Toole. With tired Bray legs, play opened up much more in the second half, leaving both defences
with plenty of work to do in the circle! Some great saves by goalkeeper Danielle Doyle kept Bray in the lead. However, Pembroke eventually snook a
goal in to claw back into the game. The game ended 1-1 with a disappointed looking Bray unhappy not to have put three points on the league table.
November 5th
Ladies 2nds
Div 11/12 Cup - Bray 4- 1 Dalkey
Bray 3rds had a great start to their cup match against Dalkey with them attacking right from the beginning, leaving little work for superb goal keeper Aishling Carthy. Great passing between Hannah O’Connor and Hannah Holden meant most of the play was kept in Dalkey’s half, and Bray were soon awarded a short corner. A strike from Roisin Ni Chearbhaill which was deflected in by Debbie Lee left the score at 1-0 to Bray.
After half time, Bray were anticipating Dalkey to come back ready to score, but Bray continued to work hard and were awarded a second goal from captain Jessica Mulhall. Dalkey caught a break and scored, leaving it at 2-1. Fantastic work from defenders Claire Murray, Sinead O’Toole and Catherine Mahony left Dalkey unable to make any further mark on the scoreboard. Heather Storey made some great plays with man of the match Aoife Gillen and Debbie Lee, allowing Aoife to Score her first ever goal for Bray and then only moments later, her second. Bray were delighted at the final whistle with a 4-1 win. They are now through to the second round of the cup, and are to face Botanic at home next Saturday.
Men 1sts
Div 7: St. Brendans 0-0 Bray
On a glorious afternoon in the Phoenix Park, Bray put on a great display
on the grass against St. Brendans. Despite playing on the unusual surface, Bray outclassed their
opponents for the bulk of the game and could have won it if it were not for some lacklustre finishing. However
the away side can take heart in securing the teams first point on this surface where many other teams will fail to get
anything. Bray have 3 home games upcoming starting next weekend when they take on Avoca at 2.30pm.
Men 2nds
Div 8 : Navan 9-0 Bray
The task of taking on a tough Navan side was made tougher by having to play the entire game with 8 men.
Although the 8 men gave it their all, they could not stop Navan romping to a 9 goal victory. They will be hoping
for better when they play at home next weekend.
OCTOBER 29th
Ladies 2nds
Div 8: Bray 2nds 3 – 0 Clontarf
The ladies seconds maintained their unbeaten record this bank holiday weekend when they played Clontarf at home.
Bray made a great start to the game with quick passing through the midfield of Nikki Bell, Katie Burgess and Rachel Kenna. Good attacking forward play Roisin Flynn and Aishling Delahunty a penalty corner. A excellent strike from the top of the circle from Katie Burgess was finsihed off with flourish by Nikki Bell. Bray continued to attack with strong play down the left-hand side by Claire Byrne and Rachel Maguire. Katie Burgess continued to dominate in the centre and secured another two goals for Bray. Clontarf attack was muted by strong defensive play from Gill Carthy and Rani Cameron in goals. Another good result for the ladies seconds!
OCTOBER 22nd
Men 1sts
Bray 5-2 Weston
A dominant performance from Bray brought their second win of the season.
In complete contrast from their game at UCD the previous weekend, Bray were relentless from the first whistle,
creating chance after chance and their pressure told when Steven Jones broke the deadlock in the middle of the first half.
This opened the flood gates and 4 more goals from Cian Hussey, Martin Kinsella, Emmett McGlinchey and David O'Brien sealed an easy win
to push Bray into the top 3. Bray's season continues after the Bank Holiday weekend with a game against St. Brendans on the 5th November
in the Phoenix Park.
Men 2nds
Bray 2 0-4 Pembroke
In a somewhat one-sided game, Bray never could get to
grips with their opponents who were in control from start to finish. Pembroke's midfield d
ictated the play and never allowed the home side to settle, and although Bray had a number of chances themselves,
they were unable to convert and the result was never really in doubt. Bray 2nds now have a week off before playing away against Navan on 5th November.
Ladies 1xi
Div 3 : Bray 1st 0 – 1 Railway
Bray ladies firsts faced another disappointing lose on Saturday away to Railway. The result of 1-0 did little justice to what was a fairly even match throughout. An unfortunate goal by short corner in the second half of the game gave the Railway side a much needed boost to carry them on to win. Bray had many chances during the match to equalise but unfortunately it wasn’t to be. Bray were the better side, but just didn’t capitalise on their chances on the day. Another terrific performance by Bray’s left back Aoife Mulford, who as usual, held the team together.
Ladies 2nds
Div 8: Bray 2nds 2 – 2 Muckross
Ladies seconds had a tough game against Muckross who started well. Bray defended well and broke down the strong play through the centre by Muckross but Bray conceded a goal before half time. Bray started the second half with excellent play by Niamh Kenna Daly and Aishling Delahunty which enabled Aoife Kenna to score a great goal. Bray continued their attack with great work by Rachel Kenna and Helen Kingston and got a second goal scored by Yani Scully Lane. Muckross managed to equalise to give a final score of 2- 2.
Ladies 3rds
Div 11 Bray 3rds 0- 1 Newbridge
Bray Ladies 3rds gave a great performance from the first whistle against Newbridge away. They were eager to show off their accurate passing and quick thinking that has come together over the last few weeks at training. Unfortunately Newbridge were awarded a short corner which they conceded, leaving the score at 1-0 to Newbridge.
Bray were set to equalise in the second half with impressive runs from Rowena Kehoe, Roisin Healy, Aoife Gillen and Caroline Johnston. Bray were awarded a short corner which failed to reach the backboard. Superb play from goalkeeper Aishling Carthy and defenders Sam Henson, Claire Murray and man of the match Sinead O’Toole prevented Newbridge from making any further progress on the score board, leaving it at 1-0 to Newbridge at the final whistle. Bray 3rds best performance to date, that just wasn’t reflected on the score board. Bray 3rds next to play the first round of the cup against Dalkey on the 5th of November.
OCTOBER 15th
Men 1sts
Bray 2 – 6 UCD
After a good opening win, Bray 1sts followed this up with a poor display in a 6-2 loss, albeit
against a strong UCD team. Consolation goals coming from Emmett McGlinchey and Cian Hussey
late in the game denied the College goalie from getting a clean sheet. The game was one
sided mostly but when Bray got their chances they failed to take them and it proved to be very
decisive in this encounter. The 1sts will look to rebound at home v Weston next Saturday.
Men 2nds
Match Postponed
Ladies 1xi
Div 3: Bray 1 – Skerries 2
Bray ladies 1st were playing Skerries away this week. They knew it was going to be a really physical match so they got straight down to work with captain Eimear Willis driving forward on the right with Erin Bailey, Cheryl O Toole and Jane Farrell. Their hard work paid off with our first of at least 12 short corners! The Skerries first runner was out like a shot to block Erin's shot. The next short corner they got they decided to change tactics, switching the ball to Jennifer O Neill and Tara Kelly eventually finding the backboard.
Skerries were straight back on the attack, winning a short corner of their own straight away and scoring an equaliser. The second half saw bray on the attack from the whistle winning corner after corner but were unlucky in the circle. The Skerries team had one quick break down the line with their centre forward getting a stick to the ball to score a goal. Bray were unlucky not to equaliser with the final play of the game being a short corner. No doubt the replay at home will be a match and a half!
Ladies 2nds
No Match
Ladies 3rds
Div 11: Bray 0 – 2 UCD
Bray’s ladies 3rds had an early start on Saturday morning playing out in UCD at 9.30. Bray played well in the first half with a lot of our new members playing their first match for Bray. Bray defended well with some great work from Sarah O’Connor and Hannah O’Connor but were unlucky to have conceded a goal. Aoife Gillen made some great runs up the left hand side of the pitch and Bray were unfortunate not to have scored from a short corner just before half time.
Bray continued their strong defensive effort in the second half and man of the match, goalkeeper Aisling Carthy made some great saves. Bray continued to try and find that equalising goal with some great work from Debbie Lee and Maria Hogan in the forward line. Bray however conceded another goal from a UCD short corner and the final score was Bray 0 -2 UCD. Bray are to play away next Saturday against Newbridge.
OCTOBER 8th
Men 1sts
Match postponed
Men 2nds V YMCA 9-2
Bray 2nds played their first away game of the season away to YMCA. After a hard fought draw against Three Rock, the 2nds followed it up with a 9-2 thumping of the home side. Goals from Sean Brennan, Cian Hussey, Adam Brennan, Barry Duff, Peter Somers and "Poacher Supreme" Dave McNerney gave the 2nds their first win of the season in some style. With 4 points
from their opening two games it looks as if the 2nds could be a challenger for Division 8 this season. They play away to Glennane next weekend.
Ladies 1xi Div 3 : Bray 3 – 0 Our Ladys
The ladies firsts were all set for a battle this week and they didn't disappoint. Tara kelly, Sinead Duffy and Jessica Carey Did stirling work on the right hand side, working the ball up the pitch. Jessica sent a super ball into Rachel Maguire who couldn't quite find the back of the net. Jessica was there for the rebound and made it one nil. Our Ladys were straight back on the attack, putting the back line under pressure but Katie Burgess, Aoife Mulford, Tara Kelly and Mairead Mahon were more than up to the challenge. The ball was driven up the park by Cheryl O'Toole and Erin O'Sullivan with Rachel Maguire picking up in the circle and beating the keeper to make it 2 nil. Our ladys fought back with a couple of short corners but couldn't get the better of Dani Doyle in goals. The second half saw great work again from bray's defense and mid-field driving play back into the our ladys half. Jessica again finding the back of the net. Bray had a good second half and won a couple of short corners to make sure the pressure stayed on. Our ladys fought hard to the end but were unable to score. Final score was 3-0 to bray.
Ladies 2nds Div 8 : Bray 2 – 0 Naas
Bray ladies seconds continued on a winning streak this weekend with a win against Naas. A slow start in early stages of the game saw both teams getting to grips with each other. But it wasn’t long until Bray found their momentum with great play through midfield from Avril Burgess, Vanessa Sumner and Nicola Bell. Bray continued to attack with Aishling Delahunty and Helen Kingston combining well to trouble Naas defence. Hard work from the forwards allowed Helen Kingston to get Brays first goal from a rebound. Bray remained solid in defence throughout the second half with good play from Niamh Kenna Daly and Caroline Kennedy. Bray continued to challenge the Naas goals, winning a number of penalty corners, and Aoife Kenna sent home Bray’s second goal with a great finish.
It was another convincing performance from Bray 2nds keeping them at the top of the league table.
Ladies 3rds Div 11 : Bray 1-2 Dalkey
Bray Ladies 3rds had a slow start away to Dalkey allowing them taking full advantage. Dalkey caught two early breaks in
the first ten minutes that caught Bray off guard, leaving bray 2-0 down. Strong play from defenders Claire Murray and man of the match Sam Henson kept Dalkey at bay for the rest of the half.
In the second half Bray had their head in the match and took their game up a notch. They were awarded a short corner
which Hannah O Connor scored from, leaving it at 2-1. Bray continued to fight for a second goal, with a lot of play in Dalkey’s circle, but were unable to benefit from it despite efforts from Rowena Kehoe, Hannah Holden and Claire Prendergast. Bray were disappointed
to hear the whistle blow at full time with a 2-1 loss. Bray to face UCD next Saturday away.
OCTOBER 1st
Men 1sts
Bray 1sts hit the ground running after recording a 3-2 victory at home against Portrane. Goals from Cian Hussey (2) and John Lush ensured
Bray took the 3 points in this lively and heated encounter. The game was not as close as the scoreline suggested though as the home side
created a number of excellent chances that should've been converted but in the end they hung on for the win. Bray play away versus Corinthians
next weekend.
Men 2nds
The 2nds started off their season with a 1-1 draw at home to Three Rock Rovers.
The game was an end to end battle with both sides having great opportunities to take the full 3 points but Bray had to settle for the draw,
made possible by a first and long overdue goal from Dave McNerney. Bray 2nds play away versus YMCA next weekend.
Ladies 2nds
Bray ladies 2nds got their season off to a great start with a 3-1 victory over Botanics. Both teams fought hard in the first half with Botanics
managing to break through the Bray defence to score. After the break Bray began to assert their play on Botanics, with good mid-field play from
Vanessa Sumner, Avril Burgess and Aishling Delahunty. Bray equalised with an excellent strike from a penalty corner by Roisin Ni Chearbhaill. Again
the 2nds went on the attack through Aoife Kenna who was awarded a flick after being fouled in the circle, which Kenna struck well to make it 2-1.
Botanics mounted a number of challenges but strong defence from Claire Byrne, Gillian Carthy and goal-keeper Trish Martin kept them out. Bray’s third
goal came again
from a penalty corner, an excellent strike by Caroline Kennedy was met by Avril Burgess to ensure victory. A great start to the season for the 2nds!
Ladies 3rds 0 - 1 Muckross. Bray Ladies 3rds were eager to get their first league match underway against Muckross. Despite the monsoon-like
rain facing them, the team’s spirits were kept high with encouraging words from defender Sarah O’Connor. Newcomer to the club Aoife Gillen was a
welcome addition to the team with impressive runs up the wing that left Muckross defence struggling. Unfortunately Muckross caught a break and were
rewarded with a goal.
In the second half, Bray were the stronger side with great work from man of the match Sonya Griffin and Rowena Kehoe. Bray were
awarded with a short corner but failed to concede a goal. Despite impressive passing from Vice Captain Heather Storey and speedy runs up the wing by
Claire Prendergast and Debbie Lee, Bray were unable to capitalise on it. Muckross continued to look for a second goal, but Bray’s defensive line kept
them at bay. Bray are to take on Dalkey away next Saturday.