‘The Gunners’ unleash their Arsenal.
By Noel Dundon Tipperary Media
Hurling is a funny old game. It can give you the biggest highs, but also the lowest of lows. I suppose that’s the way with sport in general and not just the ancient game of which we are all so fond. However, when it comes to Tipperary folk it really matters and that’s why so many got behind Loughmore Castleiney and their bid to achieve something in the provincial championship.
The Tipp standard bearers were representing their county in Walsh Park, Waterford in the Munster semi-final and while most would have acknowledged that they were up against it, all were certain that they could actually cause Ballygunner a lot of problems. Turns out they were wrong – no matter what they did, they were simply unable to really hurt them.
After the dust had settled on the clash, Manager Eamon Kelly lamented the fact that Loughmore Castleiney did not do themselves justice and expressed the view that they were disappointed with their performance. However, within seconds he added that they were not let perform and he conceded that Ballygunner were the better team for the duration of the game.
Loughmore Castleiney actually shared the scoring spoils with the Waterford lads in the second half, but the damage had been done just before half time when the Gunners pilfered 1-6 in seven minutes to lead by ten points. Turns out the winning margin was just that with Ballygunner running down the bench and the Loughmore Castleiney goal coming late when the ball deflected off John Meagher’s helmet past the practically unbeatable Stephen O’Keeffe.
It has been an incredible season for the hurlers of Loughmore Castleiney, but this defeat will hurt them. Many would be of the view that winning the county championship should be the ultimate – perhaps they are correct. But, when your team is playing on the bigger stage, you give it your best, have ambition and drive, and do everything in your power to advance. That’s what Loughmore Castleiney did but they ran into a Deise juggernaut which looked full of energy and running, and which simply powered the after-burners to race past their opponents with relative ease.
And so, the incredible high of Loughmore Castleiney winning the county championship becomes bookended by the sourness of defeat in Munster. But, they must not let this defeat define what was a remarkable season and of course they will be back at it again next Sunday in the football semi-final against Éire Óg of Ennis – another big task for them.
When the draws emerged it always appeared that the double champs had a better shot at reaching a Munster football final than a hurling one. That’s all that remains for them now and you can bet your bottom dollar that they will give it a right shot. They will hope to have a full bill of health – the illness suffered by Brian McGrath and Noel McGrath leading into the hurling game did them no favours at all.
You can be certain that there’ll be a big Tipp attendance in Ennis at the weekend too cheering on the Loughmore Castleiney men. This could be their big chance.
Cashel advance despite unusual start.
Cashel King Cormacs got past Kerry champs Abbeydorney in their Munster championship clash despite falling behind after only 12 seconds….even though it was their own man who struck the fine score!! You would often see a lad winning the ball and travelling in the wrong direction before being roared at to alter course. But, Oisin O’Donoghue’s point right from the throw-in, was a fine score – only pity is that it was over his own crossbar and was awarded to the opposition. Haven’t seen that happen before. Still, the men from the West recovered and went on to win the game in impressive fashion – their machine continues to move forward and the wishes of Tipperary hurling folks go with them.
Best wishes to Darren Gleeson.
Darren Gleeson’s announcement that he has stepped away from his role as Laois senior hurling Manager to undergo treatment for cancer, sent shockwaves throughout the hurling world -he had only just taken up the role. Darren has had his problems in the past but is wished the very best with this battle which he will tackle with typical bravery.