Ladies 1s
On Saturday 7 March, Dunfermline Carnegie Ladies 1s kicked off the second half of the outdoor season with a trip to face league leaders Glasgow Accies, who arrived unbeaten at the top of the table. Having secured a place in the top half of the split, Carnegie knew their remaining fixtures would provide a tough challenge.
Accies dominated the early stages of the match, winning multiple penalty corners but failing to convert their chances. Despite the pressure, Carnegie defended resolutely and held the hosts to 0–0 at the end of the first quarter. Carnegie struck first in the second quarter with a swift counter attack that saw them enter the Accies circle for the first time. A penalty corner was awarded and youngster Emma Mathie stepped up, firing an outstanding drag flick into the net to give Carnegie a 1–0 lead heading into half time.
The visitors started the third quarter strongly, having adjusted to the pace and intensity of the game. Striker Ciara Wilkie extended the lead during open play, calmly slotting the ball home to make it 2–0. Carnegie eased off slightly following the goal, allowing Accies to respond with a well worked penalty corner, deflected in from the back post, to reduce the deficit. After a much needed reset before the final quarter, Carnegie regained control of the match. Wilkie’s skill and persistence paid off as she won a penalty stroke following a ball to the body on the goal line. Emma Mathie stepped up confidently, lifting the ball high into the net to secure a 3–1 victory for the Dunfermline side.
Mathie was named MVP, capping an outstanding individual performance. The match showcased hockey at its best, with both teams giving their all on the pitch and showing great respect for one another. Ultimately, Carnegie’s work rate, talent and determination ensured they returned home with all three points.
Carnegie continue their league campaign with a home clash against Inverleith on Saturday 14 March.
Ladies 3s
Dunfermline Carnegie Ladies 3s travelled to Goldenacre to take on a Heriots side they defeated a few weeks ago.
The first half started brightly with Heriots putting pressure on from the start. The Carnegie defence soaked up the pressure, defending penalty corners well, as the team settled and played some nice hockey. With some good passing and movement up front, an opportunity came for Tyler McMahon to drive into the “D”. The shot on goal was deflected high from a Heriots defender and dipped into the far corner of the goal. The game was quite end to end with both teams creating scoring opportunities. Near the end of 2nd quarter corner, a scrap in front of goal resulted in Heriots equalising.
The second half saw both teams having chances to score, but both sets of defenders and goalies kept the ball out of the net. Carnegie went through a spell of giving the ball away cheaply and Heriots capitalised by scoring from another scrap in front of goal. Carnegie didn’t give up and continued to press for the equaliser.
The team worked hard but to no avail and ending up losing 2-1.
MVP Carolyn Jameston-Russell