A controversial try gave Cavan the edge in this bottom of the table clash against a gritty Carrickfergus on Sunday afternoon with the home side winning by 5 – 0.

Carrick were determined to put up a good showing after their large defeat last weekend against Navan and they started strongly making several excursions into the Cavan half with Suzie Cavan and Hilary Cawood prominent.

The Co. Antrim side came close on several occasion but the Cavan defence were able to hold their line and eventually the home side worked their way into the game with No 8 Brigid Reynolds making several bruising runs.

Thanks to strong defence from both sides an entertaining first half ended scoreless.

Cavan started the second half  well and soon had the visitors defending their own line but again defence dominated with Carrick making crucial turnovers and the seasiders  were able to work their way clear.

The home side continued to attack and Cavan were awarded a scrum five metres out in the centre of the pitch when it looked as though Carrick had secured possession. As so often happens, the home side took full advantage and Bridgid Reynolds capped a fine personal performance by forcing her way over for the games only score.

Carrick pressed hard for a score of their own but despite a succession of penalties, and a sustained period in the Cavan 22, the visitors were unable to get any points on the board.

As the game entered the closing stages Carrick introduced a bit more width to their game with some nice flowing moves along the backline but Cavan were dogged in their defence and the home side managed to hold on for that precious win.

Final score: Cavan 5 Carrick 0

Cavan: Caroline O’Reilly, Emer Mc Brien, Claire McDermott, Gráinne McDermott, Cathy King, Lynn Maguire, Hilary Quinn, Brigid Reynolds, Karen O’Reilly, Anna Coyle, Veronica Smith, Teresa White, Eimear Ryan, Elena Farrell, Kathleen Dawson, Stephanie Lord

Carrick: Louise Andrews, Suzanna McVeigh, Lydine Wilson, Rosie McKee, Joanna Jones, Claire McAtamney, Amiee Ellis, Yana Tweed, Louise Mcauley, Helen Smyth, Alyson Smyth, Heather Gamble, Hilary Cawood, Lauryn Arthur, Jenna McCammon, Laura Todd, Clare Kirkwood, Suzie Cavan.