Women's 2nd XI vs Holcombe W5

On a drizzly, cold afternoon, Cliftonville Women’s 2s stepped onto the pitch with one clear mission: secure all three points. The team started brightly, showing intent from the whistle, and it didn’t take long for their pressure to pay off. Just four minutes in, a superb cross from Cat found Chloe perfectly placed in the D, and she fired home the opening goal to give Cliftonville an early lead.

Cliftonville maintained the momentum throughout the first half, applying relentless pressure and linking up with some excellent team play. Despite dominating possession, the score remained 1–0 at the break.

After a positive team talk, Cliftonville came out firing once again. They earned multiple short corners and kept Holcombe’s defence under constant strain, but the visitors’ goalkeeper pulled off several key saves to keep her side in the game. Cliftonville continued to push until the final whistle, but no further goals came—and the match ended in a well-earned 1–0 victory.

With spirits high, the team headed back to the clubhouse for food, Secret Santa, and an evening of celebrations at the Two’s Christmas do.

Woman of the Match:

A rare five-way tie—Julie, Arabella, Everyone, Kerry, and Sally all shared the honour after strong performances across the pitch.

Donkey of the Day:

This one could only go to Julie—who was a little discombobulated by arriving early and surprising everyone (including herself!) in the process.

A great win, great energy, and a great way to kick off the festive celebrations.

SQUAD:

·        Cheryl Macer (Capt), Kerry Adams, Hannah Ballard, Tracy Ballard, Olga Borovyk, Julie Cobb, Kryssi Cumberbirch, Freiya Darrington, Cat Doherty, Paula Gaffney, Arabella Inns, Chloe Kingsland, Sally Maiden-Tilse, Donna Masters-Grounds, Ineta Undzyte.