Pembroke held as Irish league reaches business end

Pembroke drew 2-2 with Monkstown in a big battle in the Irish women’s EY Hockey League as they remain in sixth place a month out from the ABN AMRO EHL FINAL8.

They fell behind in the first half when Rebecca Carthy finished off a flowing move for Town but Pembroke bounced back in the third quarter.

Emily Beatty swept home from mid-circle and then Sally Campbell (pictured) picked out the top corner with a brilliant finish when a long ball ricocheted her way. 

Chloe Watkins, however, rocketed a backhand shot into the goal from a penalty corner second phase to make it 2-2. 

At the top, there is a three-way tie with Loreto, UCD and Catholic Institute all on 29 points with three rounds of matches to go. On Saturday, UCD drew 2-2 with Loreto on game day 15 while Ards held Institute by the same scoreline.

In the Irish men’s league, Lisnagarvey moved into a share of first place with Banbridge on 35 points thanks to a 2-1 away win over YMCA. 

Banbridge, though, have two extra games to play after Friday night’s fixture against Instonians fell victim to the cold weather.

Three Rock Rovers beat Monkstown 3-2 and Glenanne saw off Pembroke 3-1 to move closer to confirming their place in the playoffs; Pembroke were the first team to be relegated as a result.