We are delighted to congratulate our attacking midfielder Caragh Hamilton on winning the first Player of the Month Award under a new partnership agreement between the Northern Ireland Football Writers Association and Danske Bank.
Caragh’s award is a reflection of outstanding early-season form for Glentoran Woman, which saw her score three times in five games during August and September to put the team at the top of the Danske Bank Women’s Premiership. That form also won her a recall to the Northern Ireland international team.
What made the 24-year-old’s performances even more impressive was that she had only just returned after taking some time out of the game. Her season, however, has now been ended by a serious knee ligament injury, sustained in our recent win over Cliftonville.
"I'm delighted to win this award as I was away from the game for a while,” said Caragh.
"I surprised myself, as I thought I would be a bit ‘rusty’. I got a few pre-season games under my belt to blow the cobwebs away, the team played well and gelled well, and I scored a few goals, which was a great boost.
"Obviously, I've picked up an injury, which is hard to take but, I'm pleased I was able to make an impact this season.”
Glentoran Women Manager Billy Clarke said of Caragh: “Caragh’s return to playing football for Glentoran Women after almost two years away has been a revelation. In our pre-season games, she soon got rid of any cobwebs that were hanging around as her fitness and touch began to come back.
Her early-season form has been outstanding, add scoring three goals in our first five games she has made a big contribution to us being at the top of the Danske Bank Women’s Premiership. Caragh’s form also came to the attention of Kenny Shields. The NI Senior Women’s Manager has recalled her to the Northern Ireland international squad.
It’s unfortunate that her season was ended prematurely by a serious knee injury in our last game against Cliftonville.
As a club we are delighted that Caragh has been chosen as the first monthly winner of NIFWA Danske Bank Premiership Player of the Month Award. It is further recognition of her contribution to the start of our season. Her impact will be missed.
Although Caragh’s contribution will be missed we have a big squad full of quality players who all want to play. I’ve no doubt they will be looking forward to making their mark when the opportunity arises between now and the end of the season.
Finally, a word of thanks to the NIFWA and Danske Bank for their partnership in bringing forward this award for the Women’s Premiership Player of the Month for seasons 2020 and 2021”.
