Botanic firsts made it through to the semis of the Irish Hockey Challenge after a very cold wet and windy match in Tipperary town on Saturday, 8th February against Clonmel.

Conditions favoured neither team and the first half was called to a halt after around 20 minutes as the rain hampered visibility. Botanic came out strongest after the brief break in weather in the second half and created lots of goal chances. It looked like the goal would never go in passed the Clonmel defence, and in particular the goalkeeper, who held firm with some fantastic saves. It very easily could have headed to extra time, but then Lauren McClean stepped up and slotted passed the keeper from a short distance to secure the win for Botanic.

The hosts provided much needed hot food after the meal before the team headed back to Dublin in the stormy conditions, thankfully as winners. 1-0 to Botanic after a tough game in Tipp!

Next up is Raphoe Hockey Club from Donegal on Saturday, 15th March, where Botanic play hosts. Roll on the Semis!