Navan ladies remain unbeaten in Leinster Hockey League
Navan earned a Leinster Ladies Hockey League Div 5 scoreless draw with Clontarf at Mercy on Saturday.
Navan took advantage in the first-half setting up many chances in the D, but the grit remained an issue for the entire match as without any rain in the week it was impossible to
predict whether or not the ball would rise. This proved to be a deciding factor for both teams as neither were able to convert their chances.
The display of defence was crucial for the Navan side and goalkeeper Karen Dunne was formidable while Rhona Murphy, Grainne Hussey, Niamh Curtin and Eimear Hardiman were quick to clear the ball to midfield.
Christine Canavan led the charge in the mids, breaking down the Clontarf attacks while also sending speedy passes out to the wing forwards, she was backed strongly by Carla Mae Banks and Fiona Madden.
On the wings Helen Heaney and Amy Reid worked well linking with Bronagh Markey in the centre, but Clontarf's defence stayed rigid and a phenomenal performance from their goalkeeper kept the Navan side out.
The best chance at goal came from a well won short corner. Clontarf took a huge risk in taking their keeper off for the last 10 minutes leaving them with 11 outfield players.
It did however mean they were left with only a kicking back for the short corner.
The conditions of the pitch however spoiled Navan's greatest chance as the push out sent the ball bouncing across Canavan's stick leaving her unable to convert what would have been a certain winning goal in the last minute.
Navan 2nds had a much tougher assignment against a highly experienced Mullingar side who won this tie by 13-0.
Eirin Dames, the newest 'keeper for the Navan side, faced an onslaught and made many impressive saves. Samantha Simari showed impeccable skill and confidence on the ball in her clearances while Clodagh Lyons, Sinead Dixon, Sarah Clarke, Minh Stewart, Eirin Dames, Clodagh Lyons and Samantha Simari were all prominent.
Navan will host North Kildare this Saturday at 12pm and Navan 2nds will host Avoca at 3pm.
MEN
Navan’s bright start to the Leinster League Div 4 was ended by a strong Naas side on Saturday as the Kildare team won by 3-1.
Navan 2nds faced a daunting challenge with an empty bench against Naas 2nds, but produced a spirited display for a 4-0 victory.
Daire McHugh was first to score getting the final touch on the back post.
Their confidence on the ball translated into another score from Martin Holland.
The Navan men stayed focused in the second-half and added further goals from Philip Gary and Matthew Smith.