DONEGAL Women’s League U17’s advanced to last eight of the National Cup after defeating Sligo Rovers yesterday in the Showgrounds.
Sligo Rovers 0 Donegal Women’s League 1
An Emma Doherty header, just before half time, from an Erin Doherty corner, was enough to win the game by the smallest margins.
Despite Sligo having majority of possession, as the Donegal girls couldn’t get to grips of the Astro surface, Sligo rarely threatened the Donegal goal.
Jodie Loughrey was sent though by Emma Doherty on 23 minutes, but Alice Little got back to make block.
The Sligo goalkeeper got her fingertips to Erika Gallagher’s effort from inside the box.
A defensive error had Emma Doherty through but the Buncrana woman could only find the side netting.
Donegal played better in the second half but couldn’t get that extra cushion to see Sligo off, the Donegal defence of Lucy Canning, Shania McMonagle, Darcey Kelly and Emily Irwin showing a stubborn side that Sligo found hard to break down.
Leah McLoughlin made a great save with 10 minutes to go after a Lara Swan save.
With just minutes remaining Niamh Sweeney sent Emma Doherty through, but her shot was rushed and went wide of the post.
Keri Loughrey was player of the game for her continuous hard work and being the playmaker in the middle.
The Donegal Women’s League have extended good wishes Codie Walsh for a speedy recovery as she picked up a serious eye injury yesterday.
