City of Derry Women kicked off the Ulster Women’s League campaign with a convincing 23 – 0 win against Ballynahinch Women at Judges Road on Sunday afternoon.

With both sides looking a little rusty and lacking match fitness, it took a penalty from Rachel Lennox after 25 mins to open the scoring. Derry grew in confidence, and, after some excellent forward play, winger Stacey Sloan crossed from close range.

The first half ended with City of Derry leading 8 – 0.

The second half was marred with a few injuries to Ballynahinch players, which definitely unsettled the visitors.

Long-time servant and prop forward Joanna Ballentine Hu’unga showed her experience to power over from close range before Michelle McLaughlin popped up to put the game out of reach at 18 – 0  with 5 mins to play.

However Derry sniffed a bonus point and with the restart falling directly into the hands of the returning Stacey Lea Kennedy the crowd were treated to a wonderful solo effort as the Irish International handed off the defenders and sprinted clear to score in the corner for that all important bonus point win.

Derry were the stronger team and with players still to return from the successful Derry GAA side there won’t be many sides coming away from Judges Road with a win under their belts this season.

GALLERY BELOW

Pictures from Graham Service.