Minor hurling

Ibane Gaels travelled to Brinny on Saturday afternoon last to take on Whitechurch in the Minor Division 2 hurling championship (under 17). In an absorbing contest that went to extra time, Ibane had their noses in front 4-18 to 3-18, at the sound of the final whistle. This was a game that had everything - great hurling, breadth-taking scores, courageous defending allied to some mysterious calls throughout that tested the general heart condition of those on the side-line better than any angio-gram. The opening half was evenly contested with Ibane leading at half time 1-6 to 1-5. The second half was equally as close and with time almost up Ibane held a slender two point lead. While Ibane waited in vain for the long whistle, Whitechurch converted two frees deep in time added on before the final whistle sounded.

Two periods of extra time comprising of tens minutes a half were then played to try to separate the two teams who gave of their all for their respective clubs. At the end of the first period, the sides were still deadlocked at a goal for Whitechurch to three points for Ibane. It was now all to play for with character and resolve put to the test. Ibane’s return of 1-3 to three pointed frees from Whitechurch in the final ten minutes was the difference in the end.

Ibane had leaders when needed. Team captain Diarmuid Mc Carthy at centre back lead by example. Ronan Coakley gave his all at mid-field. In the forwards Olan O’Donovan was once again imperious with a scoring contribution of 1-13. Riding sidekick beside him, Daire Walsh registered 2-2. Luke Murphy got a great goal in the opening half and James Crowley hit over two invaluable points. Substitute Kevin Hennessy registered a point and showed that he can hold his own in such company. Regular mid-fielder Charlie Twomey suffered a serious injury in the very first minute of the game. He will be sidelined for some time and is wished a speedy recovery.

They play Millstreet in the final on Saturday next. Venue and time should be checked locally.

Team: Brian Murphy, Mark O’Sullivan, Cillian O’Donovan, Donncha Coakley, Joe Crowley, Diarmuid Mc Carthy, Daniel Moloney, Ronan Coakley, Charlie Twomey, Danny Lawton, James Crowley, Adam Barry, Luke Murphy, Olan O’Donovan, Daire Walsh Subs: Robert Hennessy, Kevin Hennessy, Jack Twomey.