"IT'S not over yet," insisted both camps after yesterday's match at Loughlinstown, but it may take a collapse, of most un-Muckross like proportions in their four remaining games if they are to lose their grip on the league title... a grip that tightened considerably after their 1-0 victory over Old Alexandra.

Muckross forward Orla Bell got the crucial winning score in the 22nd minute of the match after Old Alexandra failed to clear the ball from a short corner. Both teams had chances to add to the scoreline, but goalkeepers Jenny King and Sandra O'Gorman were in outstanding form.

Former Irish international O'Gorman broke Old Alexandra hearts in the 65th minute when she made a magnificent save from a goal-bound Deirdre Deasy shot. "I just saw it through legs, it was difficult but that's what I'm there for. You might only be called upon once or twice in a match, but they're the times that can decide games and that save today could have decided the league for us, said O'Gorman after the match.

The Old Alexandra camp was, understandably, crestfallen at full time after a defeat that leaves them four points adrift of Muckross and one behind Loreto.

Captain Susan Keogh was, however, proud of her team's performance. "I don't think we really deserved to lose, we had a lot of possession and pressure in the second half and that was a superb save by Sandra - we all thought it was in."

"The whole team played superbly, it was great to see them play so well. It's not over yet - they concede goals, you can certainly get through their defence. We just have to keep plodding on," said Keogh.

Such has been O'Gorman's club form this season, her absence from the World Cup qualifying tournament in Zimbabwe this summer will be a blow to Irish hopes, however she was anxious to clarify her international position yesterday. "I've just started a new job and have bought a new home, so being away for three-and-a-half weeks would be unpaid leave with no wage coming in - I just can't afford it."