PDQ Solutions

After securing second pace in the PDQ Solutions Invitational League Carrick Rangers under 15 girls secured a place in this season’s PDQ Cup Final. Carrick beat West Belfast side Donegal Celtic four three after extra time after an enthralling match under floodlight at Taylors Ave. The home side created numerous chances in the first half although goal keeper Jennifer Rogers was rarely trouble. Fawn Mulholland put the home side ahead with a deft flick midway through the first half.

The West Belfast side rallied in the second half and took a two one lead despite some excellent defending throughout from Kirtsy McCullough, Robyn Dunbar, Charlotte Howie and Player of the Match Holly Robinson. Just when it seemed Carrick’s valiant efforts were in vain Emma Murray produced an excellent strike from the edge of the box. In extra time Hannah Sheffield scored the goal of the game and Murray added her second before Donegal Celtic scored a late consolation. This result was borne out of strength and determination. With a similar performance and a little bit of luck on the way there’s no reason why this Carrick side cannot go on and win the Cup.

Carrick Rangers under 15 girls secured a five four win against a much improved Northland Raiders side in this PDQ Solutions Invitational League fixture. After leading two nil through an excellent Hannah Sheffield strike and Emma Murray’s accurate finish carrick allowed Northland to draw level by half-time. A twenty five yard free kick from Fawn Mulholland put Carrick ahead again and further goals from Emma Murray and a second free kick from Fawn Mulholland secured the points in this highly entertaining game. Northland Manger Kim Funston chose Fawn Mulholland as player of the match and there were also good performances from Emma Murray and Hanna Sheffield while Cathy Dunne tried hard with little success. Carrick keeper Jennifer Rodgers made one tremendous save.

Congratulations to firmus energy on the achievement of Investors in People recognition. It is an excellent organisation and we are delighted to be associated with their success.

Carrick under 15 Girls lost narrowly 4-2 to a stronger and much more experienced Linfield team in the PDQ Solutions Invitational league game. In a game of two halves it was the Carrick side who struck first with a 25 yard rocket from Fawn Mulholland. Just after halftime Emma Murray chipped in with her customary goal to put the young Carrick side two up. In a backs to the wall second half the young Carrick side succumbed to fatigue and Linfield scored four in the last fifteen minutes, the third three minutes from the end and the fourth with the last kick of the ball.

This was an excellent team performance and Robyn Dunbar Holly Robinson, Charlotte Howie Michelle Beggs, Kirsty McCullough all did well in defence. Shannon Mc Inytre, Emma Boyd and Kelly Nicholl worked hard for the team. Goal keeper Jennifer Rodgers put in her best game for the club in a game the girls did not deserve to lose. This was an excellent advert for girls’ football with both teams displaying great attitude, determination and technique on a very heavy pitch.

Over 35 people attended the Valentine's day Love Your People event at the Ross Park Hotel Kells and came away with the clear message that it is people who make the difference in organisational success. This was strongly reinforced by speakers Stephen Mathews from The Cedar Foundation, Julian McKewon from All Business Advice Centre and SAM Moulding's Grace McLean. An inspiring presentation from Mr Bob Lea on Great Places to Work set the agenda and Legal Island's Barry Phillips gave several practical examples from his ten years in charge of Legal Island. Marlene Marcus from Bodyzonz again provided practical input on stress management and delegates experienced the benefits of Indian Head massage. The event for CIPD NI earned superb feedback and left delegates with practical ideas to improve the workforce.

Photographs from the conference can be emailed to you on request. Contact info@pdqsolutions.co.uk

Thanks to sportnpics for providing a professional photographic service to record some conference highlights. Yes there are photographs of the chocolate fondue!