Royal Portrush ladies retain Irish Senior Cup

Melanie Mitchell (capt.) pictured with the Royal Portrush Ladies team after their victory over Kilkenny in the 2013 All Ireland Senior Cup final at Portumna. From left Hannah Henderson, Helen Jones (Lady Captain), Naoimh Quigg, Victoria Bradshaw, Collette McNicholl, Maud Wilson (manager) and Lucy Simpson. Picture by Pat CashmanDefending champions Royal Portrush won their 26th Irish Senior Cup title with a 3½-1½ victory over Kilkenny in this morning’s final at Portumna Golf Club.

Hannah Henderson (Royal Portrush) playing her second shot to the 16th green in the 2013 All Ireland Senior Cup final at Portuma Golf Club today (17/08/2013). Picture by Pat CashmanIn the top match, Mary Dowling birdied the 17th to tie the match but Lucy Simpson replied by finding the green at the short 18th and when Mary failed to get up and down, Royal Portrush edged ahead in the tie.

Victoria Bradshaw doubled their advantage defeating Eileen Rose Power on the 17th.

Orla Dunphy pulled a match back for The Cats with an-up-and-down par for a final hole victory over Helen Jones.

But Hannah Henderson proved to be the heroine for the Ulster side when she, on her Senior Cup debut, closed out her tie with Ann Smee on the 17th.

FINAL

ROYAL PORTRUSH 3½  KILKENNY 1½

Lucy Simpson beat Mary Dowling 1up

Victoria Bradshaw beat Eileen Rose Power 3/1

Helen Jones lost to Orla Dunphy 1up

Naoimh Quigg halved with Mary Leahy Browne (called in)

Hannah Henderson beat Ann Smee 3/1

Victoria Bradshaw (Royal Portrush) watches her putt on the 16th green in the 2013 All Ireland Senior Cup final at Portuma Golf Club. Picture by Pat Cashman