SUNDAY saw Ayr United Women and Girls Club 17s hosting Giffnock at The Oval in Prestwick for their 2019 C/W/SW league season restart. With very windy conditions, this was always going to be a real test and Ayr were drawn against the wind in the first half which proved hard work. However, captain Jennifer Nicol kept the defence well-marshalled, while both full backs Armani Fulton and Libby MacLeay got forward as Melissa Sloan held strong at centre half.

A long throw-in for Giffnock though, led to the first goal. After the break, Ayr mounted wave after wave of attack. Halle Arnott, making her debut, was inspirational in midfield. Rachel MacDonald and Kelsie Bradley worked well upfront to create some good chances but Giffnock held firm in defence. That was until Erin McCubbin chased what seemed like a lost cause, to win the ball, and from what seemed an impossible angle, sent her shot home. The introduction of Isla Easton and Kimberley Clark put Ayr back on the front foot. However with five minutes left, Giffnock breached the Ayr defence, with the striker bearing down on goal, however Ciara Beveridge pulled off a magnificent save. Player’s Player of the Match: Jennifer Nicol.

Injuries hampered United’s SWFL1 efforts as they lost 6-0 to Boroughmuir Thistle. Speedy recovery to njured goalkeeper Laura Thomson and striker Clare Docherty.

Ayr United 15s v Kilwinning

South West Christie Murray League

This hard-fought game ended in a 1-1 draw. Ayr looked dangerous throughout the first half, due to the dominant attacking force of Kimberly Clark, Halle Arnott, Breegan Mullen, Sophie Ross and Libby McLeay, but they take chances.

The Ayr United defence looked solid thanks to Beth Patterson and Emma Crane. Late on, Jenna Keenan from the 13s scored her debut goal for the 15s. However Kilwinning levelled late.