Mount Anville’s first-year side delivered a superb performance on Tuesday (April 22nd), travelling to Sean Moore Park for the annual Scoops.ie Dublin Blitz and returning home with the title in style.
Despite suffering a narrow defeat to Mount Sackville Secondary School in the group stages, Mount Anville’s earlier victories over Loreto Dalkey and Our Lady’s Terenure—combined with an impressive scoring difference—saw them top the group and book their place in the final. All nineteen players contributed across a strong and determined group campaign.
The final set up a rematch with Mount Sackville, but this time Mount Anville rose to the occasion. Producing their most complete performance of the day, they outplayed their Castleknock opponents to secure a deserved 3–2 to 1–1 victory.
At the back, goalkeeper Allison Rose Micks was a model of composure, showing safe hands throughout while her sharp distribution launched countless attacks. In defence, Siobhan Leonard anchored the full-back line with authority, handling some of the tournament’s toughest forwards. Across half-back, Kiera Costello, captain Lily Martin, and Emma Dillon were outstanding—consistently turning defence into attack. Dillon’s blistering pace in particular proved a major outlet going forward.
Midfield duo Ruth Byrne and Lauren Heraty provided a strong platform, linking play effectively and driving Mount Anville forward. Up front, Hillary Daly, Ciara Buckley, and Annie McAuliffe caused constant problems for opposition defences with their movement and attacking threat.
In the final, captain Lily Martin led by example, repeatedly cutting out attacks and denying Mount Sackville any clear path to goal. However, the standout performer of the tournament was undoubtedly Annie McAuliffe. A constant menace to every defence she faced, she dazzled with her direct running, skill, and finishing—striking an incredible 14–4 across the competition, including all of Mount Anville’s scores in the final.
This historic victory marks Mount Anville’s first triumph in the Scoops.ie Blitz, with captain Lily Martin proudly lifting the cup. The team represented their school with distinction and can take immense pride in a memorable achievement.
Team and scorers:
Allison Rose Micks; Rachel Nolan; Siobhan Leonard; Amber Enright; Kiera Costello; Lily Martin (1-0); Emma Dillon; Ruth Byrne (0-2, 1f); Lauren Heraty; Ciara Hall; Hillary Daly; Ciara Buckley; Emma McHugh; Annie McAuliffe (14-4); Peggy Meehan (0-1); Sarah Forde; Stephanie Rock; Amelia Grace O’Donnell; Lucy Campbell; Lucy Forde.