Michelle is quick on the draw for Ayr

Feb 13 2008 Ayrshire Post

AYR ladies 1st XI returned to action after the winter break with a 1-1 draw at home to Dundee University on Sunday.

Ayr started well and took an early lead through Michelle Kennedy after good work by Rosie Davies and Megan Clarke.

Gritty performances from captain and player of the match Claire Tester, Caroline Low and Jenna Weir pushed Ayr forward but the combined efforts of the Uni keeper and the posts kept them out.

Ayr had a wobbly start to the second half and Dundee took full advantage to equalise.

With two injuries, their first half composure was lost for the middle period meaning that defence Kirsteen Miller, Allison Patrick, Fiona Gray and goalie Marion Hunter had their work cut out. Ayr host Aberdeen University on Sunday.

Ayr ladies 2nd X1 crashed 6-2 to a strong Cumbernauld team. Ayr raced ahead inside a minute when a well worked penalty corner was slotted home by Sonia Samra.

Ayr then struggled to contain the opposition despite some good patches of play and conceded six with Joan Purdie managing only a late consolation. On Saturday, Ayr entertain East Kilbride.

Ayr gents 2nd X1 secured much needed points with a 2-0 win at home to Hillhead 4ths.

Once again, Ayr made a poor start making basic mistakes in possession and losing their shape in defence and midfield. Goalie Chris Taylor had several excellent saves before Ali Shankland scored just before half time.

Ayr were more dominant in the second half with Fraser McCurdy, Willie Forbes and Duncan Rout all moving the ball well from defence to Danny McCallum and Mungo Hay in midfield.

From their second penalty corner, a switch pass to Barry Reid was saved but Barry's return volley was deflected into goal by Cammy Cunningham from the right hand post.

Ayr gents 3rd X1 beat a young and fit Clydesdale 4ths 3-1 at Cambusdoon.

Ayr pushed from the start and after some great wing play from Johnny Sutcliffe, Cliff Martin fired inches wide.

The Clydesdale keeper made some outstanding saves to keep the score level at half time.

Ayr edged ahead when Paul Steel put though a super pass for Martin to score a great goal.

Ayr added a second and looked in control until the visitors got one back on the counter.

Chris Taylor made some super saves before Murray McBride put Martin through to score his second and seal the win.

Ayr gents 4th X1 lost 3-0 away to an excellent Monklands side who played some superb free flowing hockey. Trailing 3-0 at the break, Ayr then dictated play from the start with youngsters David Boyle and man of the match Tom Sparks instrumental in the change. But they were unable to penetrate a strong defence despite a spirited display.

Anyone wishing to train with Ayr, male or female, can attend training at 7pm on Tuesdays. All skill levels welcome.

Youth hockey resumes at the club on Tuesday February 19 from 6pm to 7pm for P4, 5, 6 and 7 and S1, S2 and S3.