Ep. 179 – The ‘Church are back

Upperchurch Drombane are heading back to the senior ranks after a composed and controlled performance saw them defeat Carrick Swans 2-17 to 2-14 in the Premier Intermediate County Final. In a game that took time to settle, Upperchurch showed the greater calm, efficiency and structure over the hour, while Swans were left to reflect on a second successive final loss where nerves and missed opportunities played a role.

Swans came into the final with the experience of last year and the expectation that it would stand to them. Instead, it almost appeared to weigh on them. They hit a number of wides that halted any momentum they tried to build, and the missed chances, particularly in the first half, chipped away at confidence. Even their goal concession was avoidable, and it added to a sense that the game needed settling moments which they could not find consistently enough.

Upperchurch, in contrast, grew in the contest. Early nerves showed with a missed free and a mishit ball for the opening goal, but once they settled, their work rate, physical presence and decision making took control. They played the game on their terms, winning rucks, using support runners and refusing to take low percentage shots. It was noticeable that they did not register a wide from play until the second half, a sign of their patience and composure.

Paul Shannon led from the front with a strong and influential display, while Gavin Ryan and Aaron Ryan also impressed. Luke Shannon was reliable on placed balls and the bench remained focused, something underlined by management calming celebrations after their second goal. That attitude proved correct, as Swans replied instantly, but Upperchurch had the structure and belief to see the game out.

For Swans, the disappointment is clear. However, their journey is not finished. Young leaders like Aaron Halloran and Stephen Tobin stood up and showed character. They have the pace, the talent and the potential to return again. But finals are not handed out, and they must reset and go back at it.

For Upperchurch, this is a return earned the hard way. They dropped from senior two years ago with the clear objective of coming back, and now they do so with a renewed identity, belief and momentum. The celebrations in the parish will be well deserved.