There were cheers to be heard all over Athlone on Wednesday 22nd May, as news spread that Our Lady’s Bower U14 football team had been crowned Leinster Champions, after securing a four point victory over St Peter’s College, Dunboyne.
After a thrilling semi-final victory over Tullamore College last week, this group of talented young ladies, captained by 2nd year student Rebecca Sleator, were all rearing to go. The team was accompanied by a sea of blue, as buses full of loyal Bower supporters came to watch the match, bringing an even more exciting atmosphere to the day.
The game was tit-for-tat throughout, with the score becoming level on many occasions. 5 points down with just 10 minutes to go, the Our Lady’s Bower squad fought back with the skill, grit and determination they are known for, giving it everything they had to gain score after score in the closing minutes of the game. The crowd erupted in cheer as the referee blew the final whistle, and Our Lady’s Bower were officially crowned Leinster Champions.
Well done to goalkeeper, Eimer Boyce, on making some super saves. The full back line of Isla Walshe, Emma Killian, Orla Turner and Layla Mae Sheriff were touch tight throughout the game. The half-back line of Rebecca Sleator, Lauren Daly and Kate O’Connor were fast and furious and worked tirelessly. Alanna Gaffey, Aoibheann Flynn and Christina Whittaker worked extremely hard to link up the play in mid-field. The half-forward line of Hannah Ganly, Rionagh Costello and Chloe Madden were always hungry for the ball, while up front, Sally Fleming and Erin Mc Hugh were forces to be reckoned with.
The team returned home to a heroes’ welcome in Athlone, as the entire school community stepped outside to cheer and congratulate the team.
A massive well done to this young team of talented footballers, and to their coaches, Ms Fallon and Ms Cuddy. The future of future at Our Lady’s Bower Secondary School is looking bright!
