*Zi Yan Spillane operated in a free role for Clare. Photograph: Ruth Griffin.
CLARE’s camogie side are growing in confidence on the ball when under pressure which has helped them to stay unbeaten following the first two rounds of the league.
Coach of the senior side, Aaron Considine outlined that their focus has been on allowing players to be composed and comfortable in possession. It has been evident in their two outings of the year where they drew with Dublin in round one and then accounted for Wexford on Saturday.
Considine said, “We have been trying to work on a style of play which includes moving the ball really quick. We are confident with the ball when under pressure. In the first half today we saw everything that we are trying to work on. We are happy with this performance”.
Speaking to The Clare Echo, the Clarecastler native commented, “the pitch was in great condition for this time of the year and credit to the Meelick club for that but, given all the rain we have had there were some sticky patches. Despite that and dealing with a wet ball, the way we moved the ball in the first half was high quality stuff. Our first touch was very good, which is surprising for this time of year. Our fitness levels are really impressive, there was a support player every time we went up the field”.
Goal chances were missed in the opening half by the hosts. “Some might say we missed three or four goals but the Wexford goalie did really well. She came of her line and narrowed the angle a few times, We might save the goals for another day,” he quipped.
Like all who attended the game Considine was impressed with the performance of full forward Lorna McNamara. “She is a huge addition this year. She has a presence, anytime you hit the ball into the full forward line, opposing defenders get worried, she can score off both sides, she is great to trap the ball and win it”.
Concluding the team coach said “there is a very competitive panel this year, there is great competition for places, everyone is really fighting for positions which is superb”.
Clare travel to play neighbours Limerick this Saturday (venue to be confirmed) and a victory here would, almost certainly, give Clare a place in the division 1 B league final.
