Harsh lessons for Kilmore and Crossmolina on Mayo Women's League debuts

THE weekend saw the re-established Kilmore team and newcomers Crossmolina making their debuts in the Mayo Women's League, with both sides returning to north Mayo empty-handed. Castlebar Town are setting the early pace in the league, with two wins from two outings.

The early Saturday kick-off saw Conn Rangers make the short trip up the N26 to Straide & Foxford United where the home side suffered a second defeat of the season.

Conn took the lead through a Leah McHugh penalty on 15 minutes but S&F's Kiera Flatley levelled the score just before half-time. McHugh, however, had her shooting boots on and completed her hat-trick with goals on 64 and 79 minutes.

Down the road in Knock, Ellen Boyle wasn't content with a hat-trick. She notched up a fourth goal with time running out as the home side saw off Kilmore 5-1, Shauna Golden having opened the scoring in the 13th minute.

The Erris side had a tricky number seven in Annie Lynskey who struck for a well-executed goal just before half-time to reduce the deficit to 3-1. Also on Saturday evening, Castlebar Town kept their 100% record and showed their intent for the season with a 5-2 win away to Ballinrobe Town. Ava Keane was among the Castlebar scorers, now with four goals to her credit after two games.

Debutants Crossmolina had a baptism of fire under the sun at Swinford on Sunday afternoon where a rampaging home side hit them for 10-1.

At underage level, Saturday afternoon saw celebrations in Ballinrobe when they booked their place in the Under 16 Connaught Cup final - these players feature in the Mayo Women's Under 17 League.

Ballinrobe ran out 2-1 winners over Corrib Celtic from Galway. Both goals came in the first half through Kate Brennan.

FIXTURES

(Friday, April 7, 6.30 p.m.)

Castlebar Town v Kiltimagh Knock United

Conn Rangers v Ballinrobe Town

Crossmolina v Straide & Foxford United

Killala v Swinford

Kilmore v Manulla

(Any time changes will be notified by clubs locally)