28/03/2026
Shield Semi-Final Result – City of Derry 50 v 41 Crumlin
City of Derry Netball Team have secured their place in the Shield Final for a consecutive year, where they will once again face familiar opposition in Strabane.
Last night’s match was truly a game of two halves. City of Derry came out of the blocks with intensity, setting a high tempo from the first whistle. The game was played with speed and accuracy with City of Derry making crucial intercepts as well as a team favourite ‘held-ball’.
Despite several players still sidelined through injury, it was hugely encouraging to see training ground efforts come to fruition. The changes within the squad were seamless, with new combinations and patterns of play beginning to take shape. By half-time, City of Derry had built what appeared to be a comfortable lead.
However, the second half told a different story. Crumlin mounted a strong resurgence, disrupting Derry’s rhythm and impacting the clinical ex*****on that had defined the first half. Unforced errors began to creep in, and at times the game became frantic.
With guidance and support from the sideline, City of Derry regained some composure in the final quarter. Nevertheless, Crumlin continued to press, sensing an opportunity as Derry looked momentarily unsettled. Although Crumlin edged the final quarter, City of Derry’s dominant first-half performance ultimately proved decisive in securing a well-earned victory.
The players are immensely grateful to all the supporters who came out to cheer them on, providing encouragement and positive energy throughout the match. One of the biggest cheers of the evening was reserved for the team captain, who made a long-awaited comeback from injury and saw out the closing minutes of the game.
All eyes now turn to the Shield Final on 18th April — and hopefully, one more reason to celebrate.
Player of the Match for City of Derry: Niamh Crawford