Wexford Women FC v Bohemians

A 2-0 scoreline was very harsh on Wexford in a rainswept Ferrycarrig this evening as they dominated the game for large periods, particularly in the second half. However, what was immediately striking from the start of the game was that new manager, Hugh Strong, wants to radically change the style of football that Wexford play. Wexford started with Nicole, Abby, Lolly, Della, Kylie, Ellen, Ceola, Rossi, Meabh, Michaela and Teegan. Unfortunately, Rianna Jarrett, Nicola Sinnott and Aoibheann Clancy all appeared to be injured. From the start, Wexford seemed to be set on high tempo press, ball retention and playing through the lines. However, the transition wasn’t working smoothly, particularly at the start and Bohs got back some easy possession. After an early Teegan Lynch effort for Wexford, it was Bohs who went ahead through a tremendous 30 yard strike by Fiona Donnelly. Ellen Molloy and then Ceola Bergin next went close for Wexford and, as the half moved on, Wexford’s confidence began to increase. However, Bohs have a very robust defence and a very good keeper in Rachel Kelly and Wexford found it hard to make any impression on the Bohs goal. 1-0 to Bohs at halftime.

Wexford largely dominated the whole of the second period but again the Bohs defence stood firm. Kylie Murphy had the ball in the net for Wexford early on in the second period but it was ruled out for offside. Not in line with it but I thought she curved her run well. Ceola then had another chance for Wexford but, from an acute angle, slotted her drive just beyond the top far corner. Wexford next almost capitalised on a rare rebound off Bohs keeper, Rachel Kelly, but couldn’t convert. Wexford subs as the half progressed included Abbie Brophy, Freya De Mange, Emily Corbet and Mia Lenihan. A worry for Wexford was that Ciara Rossiter hobbled off with assistance towards the end but I think she was able to walk to the dressingrooms at the end of the game so hopefully it’s not too bad. A late strike by Bohs then secured the three points on the basis of a 2-0 scoreline. Best for Wexford were Ciara Rossiter and Ellen Molloy, while Teegan Lynch looked a transformed player since her previous time here. Hugh Strong probably needs to be given a good deal of time to achieve this transformation in Wexford’s game and the return of the injured players would no doubt help. 2-0 to Bohs at fulltime.