After two defeats in a row this was just the doctor ordered. In the time of Aristotle there was a philosopher called Dessus who talked about the “outer purpose” and “inner purpose” of sport. The outer purpose he explained was about the spectator’s experience and the result. The inner purpose was all about the competitor’s enjoyment. He argued, against the accepted view that the magic lay in the inner purpose. 

Tonight Dessus would have rejoiced as the BSJ senior ladies, with a wonderful mix of experience and youth, were all in “the flow” with clear inner purpose. It was obvious that every player enjoyed every minute on the pitch, every kick, every jump, every tackle, every pass and especially some fine interplays that resulted in well worked scores. Their joy was as obvious as a student who just got asked the only questions she had studied in her leaving certificate English exam. “Nobody told me there be days like this. Great days indeed.”

Besides the bucket loads of hard work on view there was a clear telepathy between the players that produced some really good football. As a spectator it’s a real bonus when we see a “joie de vie” in the eyes of this talented group of ladies, many of whom I have watched play Gaelic football for 14 years.” Yikes time flies. Lucan are a strong footballing side, and the first half was close with both teams showing attacking flair and tight defence. The BSJ ladies adapted to the Lucan style and defended well against some talented Lucan attackers. The BSJ attack worked some good plays causing the Lucan defence some trouble trying to close down their slick movement. 

At the break the BSJ ladies led by 5, 2-07 to 1-05 but the gap would have been even tighter but for a great penalty save for Ellie Doran making her debut in the BSJ goal. It was end to end stuff by two decent teams. The second half however saw the BSJ ladies assert more control defending very strongly and continuing to cause the Lucan defence problems. Some well worked team moves saw BSJ raise 2 more green flags to put some daylight between the teams. To be fair to Lucan they are a good team and never gave up and when they threatened a mini-revival there was Ellie Doran again to save a second penalty! 

Well done to the BSJ girls getting back to winning ways in a competitive league.

A special mention to underage players Rebecca Bowden, Laura Dunne, Maisie White, and Ruby Brunton who supported the group this week and special congratulations to Rebecca & Ruby on making their senior league competitive debuts. Well done Rebecca & Ruby!!

Lastly congratulations to Ellie Doran on being nominated as the Player of the Match, making her debut between the posts for the senior ladies. A great performance all round from Ellie from getting her kick outs away to saving two penalties!

Next week it’s away to Erin’s Isle. All support would be very welcome!! 

Wednesday 21stMay, Throw in 7.30.