Harps completed the treble in the Bronx Irish Soccer League last weekend, taking the Champions Cup with a 2-0 win over a gallant Dr. Gilbert’s.

Harps began this game confidently and for the first 25 minutes played some of their best soccer this year. Karen Shalvey almost got them off to a great start but her effort was ruled off-side. 

Gilbert’s were finding it difficult to cope with the wingers Mary Lawton and Shalvey as well as the passing ability of Alyson Kaye.

It was therefore no surprise when Harps took the lead on 22 minutes. Shalvey took the ball down the right wing and crossed for Lawton, who hit a low drive. 

Gilbert’s defender Beth Higgins tried to intercept the shot but unfortunately deflected the ball into her own net. Instead of spurring the Harps on, they began to sit back and allow Gilbert’s to get into the game. 

Gilbert’s Pauline Devlin was causing the Harps defense all sorts of problems. Harps keeper Bonnie deSimone had a great game and pulled off a fantastic save from a Devlin shot to keep her side ahead at halftime. 

Harps made some vital changes at the half. Captain Kathy Gradischer moved from defense to midfield and Karen Murphy was slotted into central defense. Both players allowed Harps to get control of the game again. 

Harps began to create all sorts of chances. Gretchen Miller went close to extending the lead when after clever dribbling her shot was well saved by Gilbert’s keeper Jeannie Heinsohn. 

Harps eventually got the second goal 15 minutes from time. Aoife West capped a good performance when her speculative lob sailed into the net. Gilbert’s tried hard to get back into the game but Harps were able to soak up the pressure.

Overall Harps deserved their win, completing an historic treble of Bronx League, Cup and Champions Cup.

In the championship B game, Ned’s defeated McEntire’s by a score of 1-0. It was a close game, with Paula Barrett making a penalty shot off of a hand ball call. Alison Leyden made some terrific saves for Ned’s.