Sarsfields shade five star final - Thurles Sarsfields 1-21 De La Salle 1-16

Let’s start with a question. Would De La Salle have won Sunday’s final if they had kept fifteen players on the pitch? Leaving the refereeing decisions aside for a moment, what may torment the Waterford champions in the days and weeks to come when they rewind the tape is the amount of scores that they left behind. By contrast their opponents looked slicker and far more clinical in attack and that’s what stood to them in a final brimming with quality.

De La Salle were playing catch up from the very start and although they drew level on three occasions, they never took the lead. Sarsfields’ attack lived up to their billing and punched holes from the opening minutes. It quickly developed into a fast paced shoot out with 22 scores posted by the interval and another 17 added after the break. Despite the heavy rain en route to Cork, the pitch was in surprisingly good nick apart from the sideline in front of the covered stand. The firm surface created the conditions for a scoring feast. That’s not the type of game that suits Derek McGrath’s outfit but they adjusted and realised that they had to fight fire with fire to survive. You got the feeling however that Thurles were in their element. Their movement and neat inter play between the forwards gave them plenty of space to exploit. It was evident that their speedy inside line put the De La Salle full backs under the cosh. Placing Pa Bourke at the edge of the square gave him a bit of freedom to display his full range of skills and he bagged five from play. And in Denis Maher they possessed a real ball winner who could also pick out a better placed colleague with a killer pass. They were economical in their shooting during the first half and also punished two poor clearances. By full time, 1-18 of their 1-21 total had come from play with eleven different players on target.

De La Salle managed to dig in and stop the rot mid way through the first half which Derek McGrath refered to in his post match comments. “Mid way through the first half we just felt we were getting a hold on it. The gap between our half back line and half forward line was getting narrower and Eddie Barrett was coming into the game and our midfield was coming into the game.” The ever industrious Paudie Nevin made a nuisance of himself all afternoon and tucked away his goal with aplomb. John Keane’s dismissal a minute later put them on the back foot again however. In a gripping game like this, the major talking point was the man in the middle unfortunately. In the only flare-up over the sixty minutes, Shane Hourigan was perfectly placed to make the call but he came down hard on Keane and Denis Maher’s reaction must have influenced him also. Arguments have been made on both sides over whether the red card was merited or otherwise but what everyone could agree upon was that Jake Dillon deserved a penalty with five minutes to go. One minute of injury time at the end also seemed mystifying considering that five substitutes entered the fray. These decisions frustrated players and management but McGrath didn’t linger on the refereeing debate in his post match comments.

Despite their numerical disadvantage, they pounded the Thurles goal at the start of the second half. They re-emerged early clearly with intent to fight for a cause with everything they had. Maybe they were over exuberant in those few minutes after the break when a bit of calmness was required. For instance, Dean Twomey doesn’t normally assume the free taking responsibilities and he should have left that 21 metre free for Jake Dillon to tap over. Even after posting three wides on the trot, they hauled themselves level twice. Crucially though Sarsfields issued an immediate response on both occasions to keep their noses in front.

Cracking efforts from Eoin Madigan and Kevin Moran continued to give De La Salle hope but they couldn’t find a way past Patrick McCormack. The angle was too tight for Nevin to squeeze home his second goal and David Greene doesn’t usually find himself with a clear sight of the target as he had with a couple of minutes to go. As McGrath observed, those chances could have been converted under different circumstances. “We showed in patches during the second half and first half when we got on top that their back line was there to be got at. A couple of chances fell to fellas who wouldn’t be killers on our team; balls fell to players who are more workers.” Thurles could also spring the subs which De La Salle were lacking and Ger O’Grady in particular proved a handful down the stretch as himself, Richie Ruth and Pa Bourke wrapped it up.

The De La Salle half back line didn’t exert their usual influence and Denis Maher was partly the reason for that. Kevin Moran was also carrying a knock which didn’t help matters. Of the six defenders, Brian Phelan was the pick of them and neatly dispossed Lar Corbett in the first half. The back line as a unit found it difficult at times to keep tabs on the Thurles attack and reign in the flow of scores. They improved in the second half as Corbett and a few of his colleagues didn’t make as much of an impression as they had done in the first. Pa Bourke and Maher posed a constant danger and Ger O’Grady could have ended up with four or five points to his name if he took all of his chances when introduced.

They won the midfield battle primarily through the endeavours of Eddie Barrett. He put them on the front foot in a resilient second half effort and pressed on to help out the attack more than usual. He finished up with three points from play and he brought the sides level twice. The half forwards however faced a formidable barrier all afternoon. David Kennedy acted as the spare man, Padraic Maher’s influence grew as the game progressed and Michael Cahill curbed John Mullane’s contribution. With Mullane on the fringes, Jake Dillon took up the slack. A point only three minutes in settled him down and he always made a dent on the Sarsfields’ defence whenever he seized possession thereafter. Even when switched into the full forward line after half time with an extra defender for company, he still won the race for the sliotar.

So Padraic Maher raised the Munster cup for the first time in the history of the Thurles club and all things considered, they were worthy winners of a Munster championship that featured plenty of exciting fare. After the presentation and the speeches, all the De La Salle players and backroom team gathered together in a circle and vowed to return stronger in 2013. Next year, they must modify to remain one step ahead of their local rivals. They lost two tidy corner backs in Darren Russell and Michael Doherty which left them short on defensive cover and that hurt them last Sunday. Shane McNulty will probably receive more game time and look to nail down a permanent spot. Other young players also need to push the established names all the way for a starting place. Until the Waterford championship starts up again however, they are left with the what ifs from Páirc Uí Chaoimh; some of which were in their control and some of which they had no control over at all.

De La Salle can stifle Sarsfields’ attacking flair

 

Thurles Sarsfields v De La Salle

2.00 at Páirc Uí Chaoimh
Referee: Shane Hourigan (Limerick)
Thurles Sarsfields 1/2 Draw 9/1 De La Salle 15/8

With no Munster title to show after winning 32 county crowns, Thurles Sarsfields go into Sunday’s final carrying great expectations. After putting 2-20 past Sarsfields of Cork, they have been installed as hot favourites. It’s a scenario that suits the Waterford champions.

While the two Sars amassed 39 scores between them, De La Salle ground out the win against Newmarket. The gritty manner in which they carved out the result won’t trouble them as it gives them scope for improvement without any major hype surrounding the camp. They know what provincial finals are all about and what’s required to win them. Ten of Sunday’s starters were involved four years ago when they claimed their first Munster title against Adare. On that occasion, they failed to score in the opening half before storming back on the resumption. In 2010, when they faced Thurles Sarsfields, they led by five points at the break but only clung on by the minimum at the finish. That experience stood to them in Sixmilebridge and they will draw on it again when they enter Páirc Uí Chaoimh.

A second clean sheet in a row will give the defence a much needed boost after Lismore and Mount Sion rattled home six goals in the space of two knockout games. Even when Kevin Moran and Ian Flynn swopped places it didn’t appear to disrupt their shape. Moran maintained his high standards in both central positions but Stephen Daniels and Eoin Madigan weren’t far behind him. If they can make it three clean slates on the bounce, they will be in a strong position. With that in mind, the forwards are probably under a bit of pressure to perform after misfiring in the semi final. Only John Keane could hold his hand up afterwards and say that he played up to the required standard. Certainly, more wayward finishing will come at a higher price on Sunday.

Thurles will be full of confidence after they also left it late to see off Sarsfields. While De La Salle rely on their power, physical strength and aerial ability, the Tipperary champions can turn to their high levels of skill and slick touches. Their forwards can inflict devastating damage in a flash if given the space to do so. Aside from the familiar faces of Pa Bourke and the rejuvenated Lar Corbett, young guns Aidan McCormack and Michael O’Brien have been chipping in with their fair share of scores. They are unlikely to be afforded the same latitude that they received a fortnight ago but they have a couple of speedsters that will give the De La Salle defence food for thought. They also weathered a couple of storms to emerge victorious against Kilmallock and Sarsfields so they know how to come through a battle as well.

The midfield battle may ultimately prove the decisive one. Johnny Enright emerged with the man of the match award from the semi final but De La Salle’s pairing have formed one of their strongest units so far this season. Eddie Barrett always puts in a diligent shift around the field, does a lot of unselfish work and is willing to lay off the sliotar to a colleague rather than go for an ambitious score. His partner Dean Twomey is not shy in shooting for a score and bagged two more last time out. He offers an authoritative presence and also rolls up his sleeves to gain possession in tight situations. Enright and Michael Gleeson will have their work cut out to get the better of these two. Both players can land points from distance and distribute the ball into that lively attack but they have a hard working duo to deal with on Sunday.

Sarsfields would prefer a more free flowing and open game while De La Salle will seek to shut the door and let their half back line and midfield dictate the terms of engagement. Thurles have unfinished business after striking seventeen wides in the final two years ago and that supplies them with plenty of motivation. De La Salle have been down this road before however and while they are not without their flaws, they are proven performers and can pick up the pieces from a patchy semi final to eek out a one point win.

Waterford’s record in Munster club hurling finals

1964

Glen Rovers 3-7 Mount Sion 1-7

1965
St Finbarrs 3-12 Mount Sion 2-3

1966
Carrick Davins 2-17 Ballygunner 1-11

1968
Newmarket 5-8 Ballygunner 4-3

1975
Blackrock 8-12 Mount Sion 3-8

1979
Blackrock 0-13 Dunhill 1-8

1981
Mount Sion 3-9 South Liberties 1-4

1988
Patrickswell 3-13 Mount Sion 2-13

1996
Wolfe Tones 4-9 Ballygunner 4-8

1999
St Joseph’s Doora-Barefield 4-9 Ballygunner 3-8

2000
Sixmilebridge 2-17 Mount Sion 3-8

2001
Ballygunner 2-14 Blackrock 0-12

2002
Mount Sion 0-12 Sixmilebridge 0-10

2004
Toomevara 1-14 Mount Sion 1-13

2005
Newtownshandrum 0-16 Ballygunner 1-12

2008
De La Salle 1-9 Adare 0-10

2009
Newtownshandrum 2-11 Ballygunner 2-9

2010
De La Salle 0-9 Thurles Sarsfields 0-8

Ballygunner and Fourmilewater crowned champions

Under 21 A Final

Ballygunner 1-13 St Carthages 0-15

The Gunners won their fourth under 21 title on the trot as Pauric Mahony popped up with the winning goal in the third minute of injury time. St Carthages raced into a 0-8 to 0-3 lead after the first quarter with six different players on target. Ballygunner fought back and four Pauric Mahony points closed the gap to two by the interval (0-9 to 0-7). The Eastern champions dominated the third quarter and outscored their opponents by five points to two in that period to leave them 0-12 to 0-10 ahead. In a free ridden second half it became a battle between Mahony and Stephen Bennett. Carthages regained the lead through Bennett’s accuracy and Brian Bennett put them two points clear with five minutes to go. Ray Barry’s switch to centre back reaped rewards for the Westerners as Ballygunner struggled for scores. Another Mahony free bridged a 21 minute wait for a score and brought the defecit down to the minimum. Kieran Bennett restored that two point lead for Carthages and with Barry driving out of defence time after time, the win looked secure. Ballygunner piled on the pressure however in the closing stages and their persistence paid off when Mahony got a touch to Billy O’Keeffe’s crossfield ball with the last puck of the game to claim the spoils.

Scorers:- Ballygunner: P. Mahony 1-11 (10f), C. Power, J. McCarthy 0-1 each.
St Carthages: S. Bennett 0-7 (5f, 1 65’), K. Bennett, R. Barry 0-2 each, J. Shanahan, P. Coleman, B. Bennett, J. Prendergast 0-1 each.

Under 21 B Final

Fourmilewater 2-16 Passage 3-11

A Jamie Barron inspired Fourmilewater edged an exciting curtain raiser in sticky conditions at Fraher Field. Four points from Barron and one courtesy of Shane Ryan put them five points up within nine minutes. John Whitty’s goal in the tenth minute kick started Passage however and they hit the front when Thomas Whitty lobbed the sliotar over the back pedalling Fourmile' goalkeeper and into the net from 70 metres out. Barron steadied the ship for Fourmile with a goal just before half time to leave them 1-8 to 2-4 ahead at the break. The sides were level on three occasions in an absorbing second period. Jamie Barron and Seamus Barry traded frees but Kenneth Brazil pounced for a crucial Fourmile’ goal with seven minutes to go. They surged five points clear but Richard Hurley buried an injury time goal to set up a tense finale. Barron wrapped up the win with a late free which brought his tally to 1-13.

Scorers:- Fourmilewater: J. Barron 1-13 (1-9f, 1 65’), K. Brazil 1-0, D. Murphy 0-2, S. Ryan 0-1.
Passage: S. Barry 0-8 (7f), J. Whitty 1-1, R. Hurley, T. Whitty 1-0 each, L. Flynn, J. Cunningham 0-1 each.

Waterford’s record in Munster club football since 2000

 

2000 quarter final
Moyle Rovers 2-2 The Nire 0-7

2001 quarter final
Drom Broadford 2-9 Stradbally 0-9

2002 quarter final
Monaleen 1-12 Stradbally 2-6

2003
No Waterford representative

2004 quarter final
Stradbally 0-11 Loughmore Castleiney 1-7

2004 semi final
Stradbally 1-12 Bishopstown 0-12

2004 final
Kilmurry Ibrickane 0-9 Stradbally 0-9

2004 final replay
Kilmurry Ibrickane 0-9 Stradbally 0-8

2005 semi final
Nemo Rangers 1-14 Stradbally 0-10

2006 semi final
The Nire 1-6 Aherlow 1-6

2006 semi final replay
The Nire 1-10 Aherlow 0-6

2006 final
Dr Crokes 2-5 The Nire 0-8

2007 semi final
Ballinacourty 2-6 Kilcummin 0-8

2007 final
Nemo Rangers 1-10 Ballinacourty 1-7

2008
No Waterford representative

2009 semi final
Kilmurry Ibrickane 0-9 Stradbally 0-6

2010 quarter final
Stradbally 0-7 Doonbeg 0-4

2010 semi final
Nemo Rangers 1-12 Stradbally 1-5

2011 quarter final
Dr Crokes 3-13 Ballinacourty 0-7

Tall order for Stradbally in Clonakilty

Castlehaven v Stradbally

Clonakilty at 2.00
Referee: Derek O’Mahoney (Tipperary)
Clonakilty 1/16 Draw 16/1 Stradbally 15/2

A swift eight day turnaround for Stradbally as they point the bus towards West Cork for Sunday’s Munster semi final. They took plenty of punishment over two hours of football against The Nire and shipped a couple of knocks. Castlehaven meanwhile eased themselves into the Munster campaign with an eleven point win over Drom Broadford two weeks ago and will be well rested for this one.

Seven previous raids into Munster have only yielded one final appearance for the Reds. That came back in 2004 when they came up short against Kilmurry Ibrickane after a replay. Waterford clubs have made the decider on three occasions in the last decade but one win out of the last four outings in the province shows the step up in class that Stradbally must make this weekend. Their defence must hold firm yet again to give them any chance of causing a shock against a confident Castlehaven.

After being reduced to fourteen in the Cork county final, they nicked a win when substitute Shane Nolan punched home a high delivery. They slugged it out with Duhallow for the majority of that game but crushed Drom Broadford last time out and racked up 1-15 in the process. Nolan rattled the rigging for the second game running against the Limerick champions. A couple of future stars are dotted throughout their line-up. Damien Cahalane anchors the heart of the defence at number six while Brian Hurley and Mark Collins up front are on the fringes of Conor Counihan’s plans. Dermot Hurley also offers a strong presence at midfield. Stradbally were the last Déise team to take down a Cork outfit in 2004 when they eliminated Bishopstown but it appears to be an uphill task for the newly crowned Waterford champions to pull off another sizeable scalp on Sunday.

Salle steady down after Sixmile’ scare – De La Salle 1-10 Newmarket 0-10

 

That De La Salle performance won’t suffice in two week’s time but it was good enough on Sunday to chisel out the win. They almost left it behind them and Colin Ryan had the golden ticket for the Munster final when he hared down the right wing in the last minute of normal time. Salle’s first half dominance, defensive solidity and experience in these situations eventually kept Ryan and company at bay.

They started like an express train and threatened to leave Newmarket at the station. In spite of the four week lay off, their hurling was crisp from the throw in. They overpowered their opponents and in terms of winning the dirty ball, the man in the red and white shirt nearly always emerged with it. Just before the game started, all the De La Salle starters engaged in a mini game within a small space which focussed on winning possession in close quarters. Once again the half back trio held firm and the midfield pairing hoovered up possession. With all of these factors going in their favour, De La Salle’s lead still only soared to three points. Nine different players missed the target as the wides tally entered double figures by the short whistle. Newmarket were far more economical and only struck two wides with Colin Ryan dropping deep to pull the strings. They were really struggling in the full forward line however where Kevin Moran stood in well after picking up a dead leg early on. A one point cushion at half time didn’t reflect the fact that De La Salle were on top in almost all sectors.

The pendulum swung on the changeover and Newmarket awoke from their slumber. Their backs tightened up with the two corner men Eoin O’Brien and Sean O’Connor taking turns to shadow and suffocate John Mullane. They hit the front for the first time through Shane O’Brien senior and the crowd began to raise their voices in the packed stand. Whenever they felt under pressure in that second half, De La Salle responded with urgency. Jake Dillon’s clever sideline picked out Mullane to restore their lead. Then when Mike McInerney was awarded a controversial point, Dean Twomey went straight down the other end to raise a white flag. They rode their luck at times however. McInerney’s blistering effort hammered off the frame of the goal and out midway through the half. Colin Ryan also shot five wides of his own as Newmarket finished up with ten efforts off target. De La Salle also had to dip deep into their defensive resources as Oran Keevers and Chris Sheehan stepped into the breach during an anxious last quarter. With the sides on level terms for the fifth occasion, it turned into trench warfare. Openings were butchered at both ends. Stephen Daniels made some vital catches and clearances in that period. Then after Ryan fluffed his lines, Salle crafted a real team goal with the workhorse Barrett finding Paudie Nevin before John Keane scooped the sliotar home.

The Tipperary native enjoyed one of his finest hours in a De La Salle shirt on Sunday. He showed well for the ball in the first half at corner forward and when he wasn’t sniffing around for a score, he was looking for the man in the better position. He converted two of his three chances in the opening period before rounding off that patient move in injury time. His sharp hurling brain will be needed the next day. Another unsung hero Eddie Barrett again put in a busy performance alongside Dean Twomey who chipped in with two crucial points. Then you had the usual suspects of Kevin Moran, Stephen Daniels and John Mullane who showed flashes of leadership when it was necessary.

Thurles won’t be shaking in their boots after this performance especially when they scored 2-20 against Sarsfields. Derek McGrath will be pleased though to survive another away assignment and how the players rallied when Newmarket began to find their rhythm. A bit like the Lismore quarter final, they executed the winning score when all wasn’t going their own way. On a sticky pitch and in an unfamiliar surroundings they absorbed the knocks that came their way and banished some poor finishing with a slick winning score. “We are proud of the fact that although it might not have been a purists’ game, it was kind of dogged and we’ll take dogged all day as long as we win” is how McGrath put it afterwards and that’s as fair a summation as any. He also knows that some refinements will be required for November 25 down by the Lee. “I’m just thrilled to get out of here and obviously we would be hugely aware of the fact that we wouldn’t be near good enough to beat Sarsfields.”

Steely Stradbally grind it out – Stradbally 1-8 The Nire 0-10

Once more you scratch your head and wonder how they keep coming back for more. Even in the most unlikely of circumstances and with their backs to the wall, they find the winning formula. Maybe they were a bit below their best but when it comes to winning matches, nobody does it better. They have defied the pundits time after time when written off. You can talk about a big three in Waterford football but when a team wins eight titles in twelve years, this Stradbally bunch stand out on their own.

Cast your mind back twelve months to that mudbath and despite the fact that Ballinacourty deservedly came out on top, Stradbally nearly nicked it. Underestimate them at your peril. Although they lined out with eight players over the thirty mark, that experienced core pulled them out of mire. They showed resilience and a mental capacity to keep plugging away that has been accumulated over time. They are relentless in their pursuit of victory. Even in a pulsating, see saw battle like Saturday’s replay became, they held their nerve. When speaking with Michael Walsh after the game, it was striking how calm he was given the welter of excitement and the emotion of the occasion. They don’t lack in football ability either especially when you have Tony Grey, Walsh, Ger Power, John Coffey and Niall Curran on board. The Ahearnes bring a different dimension and Shane played a captain’s part in keeping them afloat during the first half. They did Sean Ahearne proud because he instilled many of those traits into them over his tenure. Pat Curran did a fine job in the bainsteoir’s bib to maintain this incredible winning streak in trademark Stradbally fashion.

They drew on all their traditional attributes to get them out a tight corner. Yet again, they lost their way in the opening quarter. They slipped four behind after fifteen minutes and they also lost two of their old warriors in Trevor Costelloe and John Hearne. It was bruising battle at times with three players being taken to hospital. Stradbally refused to yield and the direct ball to their inside forwards paved the way for scores. They remained patient even when The Nire cut out their deliveries and when they miscued in front of goal. They assessed the situation and worked out a solution. Ger Power’s goal gave them a boost as they surged two ahead. The Nire fought back yet David Grey had the last word. Left on the sidelines after making a big impression at the start of the championship, he proved a point with an ice cool finish.

Their defensive fortitude has also been a central plank to their success and for the second weekend running, they kept their goal intact. Manager Pat Curran highlighted that aspect of their game afterwards. “You must remember that we gave away no goal again. We worked very hard on that and only for Oliver Costelloe the last day we might not be standing here today.” They only conceded three goals all season with Clashmore and Ardmore the two teams to put the ball past Costelloe. Defending isn’t always a polished art and Stradbally make the hard hits when required. Opposition teams have scored an average of nine points against them in the championship which is a mean concession rate.

Like the drawn game, The Nire were left wondering how they didn’t finish the job. They led by four after the first quarter and still kept the margin at three going down the final furlong. Maurice O’Gorman, Shane Walsh and Liam Lawlor gave the direction and they appeared to have things under control. Lawlor’s departure undoubtedly contributed to their downfall. All through this championship, he led the line superbly and tucked away two points with aplomb in the first half. Shorn of his leadership and a focus up front, they took a couple of wrong options and hit five second half wides. Stradbally also forced some turnovers in The Nire’s end of the field. Their lead should have been greater at half time and when the Reds began to turn the screw, a few doubts crept in and the script became all too familiar. Over the course of ten games they probably played the best football and in Liam Lawlor they had the outstanding forward in the championship but Stradbally edged them out on final day. The winner takes it all.

It will rank as one of the more enjoyable and entertaining finals in recent memory. With conditions in their favour, these two teams played a more attractive brand of football. These games are always fraught with tension and nerves. For the third year running, the football decider was won by a single point. That slice of quality can be lacking in these types of encounters but on Saturday the score taking, the pace of the contest and the intensity in the challenges was of a high standard for club level. Finals are for winning however and Stradbally know how to win.

County final stats

Wides

Stradbally: 8 The Nire: 6

45s
Stradbally: 1 The Nire: 2

Frees
Stradbally: 15 The Nire: 22

Yellow cards
Stradbally: 4 (T Grey, A Doyle, S Lannon, S Cunningham) The Nire: 2 (D Guiry, J McGrath)

Subs used
Stradbally: 5 The Nire: 2

Scoring chances
Stradbally: 9/20 The Nire: 10/20

Old reliables can take Salle a step further – Munster semi final preview

Newmarket On Fergus v De La Salle

2.00 at Sixmilebridge
Referee: Johnny Ryan

Betting
Newmarket 7/4 Draw 9/1 De La Salle 8/15

While De La Salle can reflect on a proud one hundred per cent in two previous Munster missions, victories in this competition are hard earned and lapses in concentration are punished. Ballygunner didn’t see Na Piarsiagh coming last year in a provincial championship they were favourites to win. De La Salle’s recent history also shows that all four wins achieved in Munster came by two points or less.

Again they will rely on their half back and midfield to set the tone. The half backs offer an effective shield to a full back line that can be caught for pace at times. All three players are strong under the high ball and can drive forward. The work rate Dean Twomey and Eddie Barrett and their ability to join in the attack also make them a difficult combination to break down. Their ball winning ability all over the field was eye catching in the county final. It didn’t matter if the ball came in high or low to the forwards, they could always make something of it. John Mullane lifted his game for the final and it will be interesting to see whether he lines out at centre forward or closer to goal this weekend. Jake Dillon will also need to hold his nerve on the frees like he did throughout the county campaign. Overall, Newmarket will be need to deal with De La Salle’s physical power in order to put themselves in a winning position.

Clare have not produced a provincial winner in twelve years. Sixmilebridge were the last team to collect the Munster cup back in 2000 and despite the Clare champions reaching the final on three occasions since, they all came away empty handed. This time, Newmarket emerged from the pack after a 31 year famine and they enjoyed an unbeaten run in six games. Their only blip was a draw against 2011 provincial finalists Crusheen in round 3 of the group phase (2-13 apiece). They scored an average of 16 points and conceded an average of 12 in the Clare championship. Inter county representatives James McInerney and Enda Barrett command the central positions in defence but their talisman is undoubtedly Colin Ryan who racked up 1-8 on county final day. Like their opponents, Newmarket took the title with a degree of comfort as they got a grip early on against Cratloe.

Derek McGrath will urge his troops to maintain their discipline and not present Ryan with straightforward placed balls. Seven of Dungarvan’s twelve points in the county final came from frees. If the De La Salle defence can keep an eye on Ryan, it may knock Newmarket out of their stride. Another worry for the management team will be the toll  that last weekend’s Eastern under 21 semi final (which went to extra time) took on players like Jake Dillon, Eoin Madigan and Shane McNulty. The change of venue to Sixmilebridge also throws something different into the mix and Newmarket’s familiarity with the ground may be a worth a point or two.

All things considered, De La Salle’s composure at this level should see them through the sticky patches here and if their half back line and midfield perform to their best, they can supply the front men and reach their third Munster decider.

De La Salle’s Munster club record

2008 semi final
De La Salle 0-18 Sarsfields 0-16

2008 final
De La Salle 1-9 Adare 0-10

2010 semi final
De La Salle 0-22 Sarsfields 2-15 (AET)

2010 final
De La Salle 0-9 Thurles Sarsfields 0-8

Small tweaks can tip the scales - Football final replay preview

 

Stradbally v The Nire
7.00 at Fraher Field
Referee: Alan Kissane

Betting
Stradbally Evens Draw 11/2 The Nire 6/5

History in the making as the Waterford football final takes place under lights for the first time and follows the example of Donegal last weekend. The work is largely completed at this stage in both corners so it is all about rest and recovery over the past week. There is unlikely to be changes in personnel but will we see some tactical variations?

The Nire bolted from the blocks last Sunday and despite the fact that lightening may not strike twice, they will have recognised the need to keep the tempo high for a more sustained period this time around. Stradbally manager Pat Curran admitted afterwards that they managed to take the sting out of their opponents as the game wore on. “I thought the backs stifled well and when we stood in front of them for the quick frees and forced them to kick it long it suited us better.” They should look to keep Liam Lawlor close to goal as he scored three points and set up two from that position.  This made his move further out the field during the second half all the more perplexing. At the other end, The Nire will be pleased with how they marshalled the Ahearne brothers and will be hoping for a repeat of the dose on Saturday. Their savage work rate which forced several turnovers will also need to be replicated.

Will Stradbally pump direct ball into their forwards or work it in using more intricate means? They found it difficult to feed the Ahearnes and as a result they couldn’t put The Nire defence under significant pressure even with the aid of the breeze. Niall Curran also only flickered in and out of the action. David Grey has fallen down the pecking order up front but he could be a viable option to improve their scoring return. Stradbally also need to tidy up their distribution. In the slippery conditions the Reds dropped far too much ball for their liking and they gave away possession cheaply at times.

Whichever team brings that element of surprise or fresh approach can take the spoils. Stradbally are the replay specialists and won’t make as many basic errors in possession again. They will also feel that they gained the upper hand at midfield and will again rely heavily on Michael Walsh. In other areas however, they have more ground to make up than their opponents from the first day out and if you look at the six starting forwards on both sides, The Nire carry a greater scoring threat. If they can play with same zip that they displayed in the opening twenty minutes of the drawn game and take a couple of pointers from their subsequent dip in performance, they can finally end their replay jinx against the Reds.

Stradbally v The Nire The Replay Records

2002: Stradbally 3-8 The Nire 2-11
Replay: Stradbally 0-12 The Nire 0-10

2004: Stradbally 1-5 The Nire 0-8
Replay: Stradbally 2-8 The Nire 1-4

2005: The Nire 0-6 Stradbally 0-6
Replay: Stradbally 1-8 The Nire 1-4

Waterford v Clare Munster club hurling rivalry 1992-2012

1992 semi final
Sixmilebridge 3-12 Ballygunner 0-5

1993 semi final
Sixmilebridge 2-9 Lismore 1-4

1995 semi final
Sixmilebridge 5-11 Ballygunner 2-10

1996 final
Wolfe Tones 4-9 Ballygunner 4-8

1997 semi final
Clarecastle 1-16 Ballygunner 0-16

1998 semi final
St Joseph’s Doora-Barefield 1-13 Mount Sion 0-7

1999 final
St Joseph’s Doora-Barefield 4-9 Ballygunner 3-8

2000 final
Sixmilebridge 2-17 Mount Sion 3-8

2001 quarter final
Ballygunner 2-19 St Joseph’s Doora-Barefield 2-13

2002 final
Mount Sion 0-12 Sixmilebridge 0-10

2004 semi final
Mount Sion 4-13 Kilmaley 0-9

2005 semi final
Ballygunner 3-13 Clarecastle 2-9

2007 semi final
Tulla 2-13 Ballyduff Upper 0-14

2009 semi final
Ballygunner 1-14 Cratloe 0-15

It never rains but it pours – Stradbally 2-2 The Nire 0-8

Any hopes of a scoring feast went out the window as soon as you stepped out the door on Sunday afternoon. Even though Maurice Condon blew up a tad early, these two teams deserve the chance to put their best foot forward in more favourable circumstances. It was reminiscent of twelve months ago when Ballinacourty and Stradbally produced eleven scores over the hour. We only witnessed twelve on Sunday.

So, a fifth drawn football final in eleven years brings us back to Fraher Field on Saturday evening but The Nire may be wondering if they missed the boat. Once again, they couldn’t shake off Stradbally after pinning them back in the early exchanges. It could have been lights out for the Reds after that first quarter when The Nire battered the road goal. They could only muster four points in that period of dominance and paid a heavy price when they were pegged back 22 minutes in. Shane Walsh and Brian Wall miscued straightforward frees in front of the posts, one ball went into the goalkeepers’ arms and they had struck four wides by half time. They hit their main men in Shane Walsh and Liam Lawlor and that tactic posed questions of the Stradbally defence. Jamie Barron was also very prominent in the opening half as he picked off a brace of points and linked up effectively with those around him. They couldn’t maintain that fluency and cohesion up front for the full sixty however and a two point lead did scant justice for their first half display.

Stradbally stayed afloat by the skin of their teeth. Michael Walsh dug his heels in and kept his head when all around him were losing theirs. Uncharacteristically Stradbally made a plethora of handling errors early on but the Brick always stayed cool in possession and also helped out in defence. The fact that they didn’t concede a goal also helped them regain a foothold. Oliver Costelloe was alert to the danger at all times and swept up decisively behind his full back line. He was also called into action to deny Shane Ryan and Darren Guiry. The Nire had scored a goal in every championship game before Sunday and registered fourteen in all but they could find no way past the 37 year old. Manager Pat Curran also mentioned after the match that they got some lucky breaks in the form of the two goals. The first major gave them a lifeline when The Nire threatened to pull away and the second handed them something to hold onto.

A deluge at half time ensured that the scoring rate would drop considerably for the second period. The Nire seized control again as a sublime Liam Lawlor point (his third of the afternoon) gave them a three point cushion. A second Stradbally goal put the cat amongst the pigeons however and suddenly the Ballymac men had to reel in their opponents. Surprisingly Liam Lawlor drifted out the field and started picking up possession around the middle. Stradbally didn’t push on after receiving the tonic of that goal despite the continued best efforts of Michael Walsh. The Nire dealt with the threat of the two Ahearnes and Niall Curran with James McGrath shining alongside the experienced duo of Justin Walsh and Maurice O’Gorman. The Reds also held firm at the back and their full back line in particular tightened up. They began to frustrate The Nire but eventually they found the space to kick the equaliser. Seamus Lawlor is no stranger to pushing on into advanced areas and after a patient build up he squared up the contest for the first time. Eight substitutes entered the fray but they made little impact and it’s hard to see changes in either starting fifteen for the next day. Both sides knocked on the door in the closing stages without ever creating a genuine opening for a winner.

Not a classic contest by any means but in the driving November wind and rain nobody had any right to expect one. Stradbally will feel they have more room for improvement. They sprang to life in patches but they simply cannot afford another stuttering start. Their handling let them down far too often especially in the first half. They will also expect a greater return from their forward line next weekend than the four scores put up last Sunday. The Nire delivered a more consistent display over the hour but they didn’t make the most of their purple patches. They know that they had Stradbally’s measure and that will inspire confidence but they must also realise that you must deliver the knock out blow to see off a team of that experience. Plenty to chew over for players, managers and spectators in the next couple of days before the bell sounds for round two.

County final stats
Wides
Stradbally: 8 The Nire: 8

45s
Stradbally: 0 The Nire: 1

Frees
Stradbally: 17 The Nire: 18

Yellow cards
Stradbally: 3 (T Grey, J Coffey, P Kiely) The Nire: 1 (Ml O’Gorman)

Subs used
Stradbally: 4 The Nire: 4

Scoring chances
Stradbally: 4/13 The Nire: 8/18

Guide To The County Football Final 2012

Stradbally v The Nire

3.00 at Fraher Field

Betting
Stradbally 4/5 Draw 6/1 The Nire 11/8

Probable Teams
Stradbally: Oliver Costelloe, Tony Grey, Kevin Coffey, Trevor Costelloe, Shane Lannon, Eddie Rockett, Andy Doyle, Michael Walsh, Paddy Kiely, John Hearne, Ger Power, John Coffey, Niall Curran, Robert Ahearne, Shane Ahearne.

The Nire: Tom Wall, Justin Walsh, Thomas O’Gorman, Maurice O’Gorman, John Moore, Martin Walsh, James McGrath, Michael O’Gorman, Brian Wall, Seamus Lawlor, Shane Walsh, Jamie Barron, Darren Guiry, Liam Lawlor, Jamie Barron.

Story To Date
In game one of championship 2012, Stradbally lost out to Clashmore and their group form in general didn’t point towards title winning form. As a couple of their bigger names returned to fitness they picked up the pieces and peaked for the semi final to turn the tables on Ballinacourty. On the other hand, The Nire blazed a trail through the group stages and won their five games with something to spare. They managed to keep their head above water when Kilrossanty threatened an upset in the quarter finals before regaining their composure and running up a big score in the last four.

Leading Scorers
Both of Sunday’s finalists have shared the scoring burden among a wide range of players up to this point. While Niall Curran leads the way for Stradbally on 3-12, David Grey is a close second with 1-14 and Robert Ahearne currently occupies third place on 3-5. Shane Walsh is The Nire’s top scorer on twenty four points but Shane Ryan, Jamie Barron, Liam Lawlor and Brian Wall are all lurking close behind.

Key Battles
Stradbally opted for route one into Robert and Shane Ahearne to unsettle the Ballinacourty defence in the semi final but it remains to be seen whether they will try that again. No matter what plan they come up with, a full back line of Justin Walsh, Maurice O’Gorman and Thomas O’Gorman will line up against them. If they can get past that defensive wall, they will have one hand on the Conway Cup. The Nire lean heavily on Liam Lawlor at the other end and they will pin their hopes that he can get his hands on enough ball to control matters. The Reds will mull over who will keep tabs on the full forward for the afternoon.

Under The Radar
A number of Stradbally players can fit into a wide variety of positions and deliver a high level of performance. For example, Shane Lannon can switch seamlessly between defence and attack without getting the recognition he deserves. A couple of The Nire’s front men are also going about their business in a quiet but effective manner. Shane Ryan and Jamie Barron will look for their first senior medals on Sunday and they have played a major part on the road to the final. Ryan has fired 4-8 while Barron is not far behind on 3-10.

Off The Bench
Pat Curran can turn to a blend of the young and the old if he needs to freshen things up. Stephen Curran, David Grey, Tommy Connors and Trevor Curran all received game time during the semi final. His opposite number JJ Moore can call upon a couple of attacking options to change the course of the game. Connie Power, Craig Guiry and Diarmuid Wall are among the players at his disposal.

Prediction
Can a zebra really change its stripes? Stradbally appear to be taking a more offensive approach than in previous years. Their scores for column is a lot healthier with 10-76 already compiled over seven games. David Grey emerged from the shadows in the group stages but since the start of the knockout rounds, Niall Curran and the two Ahearnes have been their most prolific scorers. Robert and Shane Ahearne not only offer an aerial outlet but the ability to drive at defences and fire points from distance. Even at the age of 34, Curran still retains his cuteness around the goals and an eye for a score. He hit 1-5 from play last time out and he usually performs well in county finals. They can still keep things tight at the back however and they have only conceded an average of nine points per game.

The Nire also seem to be adopting a positive attitude this season and utilising the kick pass to feed their forwards. This is evidenced by a return of 14-105 in their eight championship games to date. Shane Walsh and Liam Lawlor lead the way and offer the leadership up front but players like Jamie Barron and Shane Ryan have also become indispensible members of the attack. They can make hay if provided with a decent supply and in the semi final they piled on the scores at will. Looking through county final meetings between these two over the last decade, they don’t usually turn out to be see saw shootouts. Will this latest episode deviate from this pattern? Conditions may ultimately decide whether these two teams go for broke or batten down the hatches.

Both teams have a couple of creases to iron out. Ballinacourty sliced through the Stradbally rearguard during the first half of the semi final and only a combination of some desperate last ditch defending and poor finishing let them off the hook. Michael Walsh has also not been as prominent as they would like around midfield but he may be saving a big one for final day. The fitness of Shane Walsh will be closely monitored by The Nire as he sat out the Clashmore game with a hamstring injury. Kilrossanty also dominated the middle third during their quarter final duels and that may an area of concern.

The Nire appear to have recovered from this blip against the green and gold however and struck a notable haul of 3-13 to get over Clashmore. They have displayed remarkable consistency since the start of the championship back in April and go into the final unbeaten. The only question hanging over them is whether they can shake off the baggage of a miserable knockout record when faced by those red jerseys. They tend to struggle against Stradbally when the heat comes on. Their last knockout win came back in the 2006 final. They will need to answer some searching questions in a convincing manner on Sunday again to get past the post. The Nire may start with a bit more youth in their fifteen but they are still well equipped to deal with the physical element that will be present in this final. Their solid full back line and a forward line capable of stretching the Stradbally rearguard and pouncing for a goal or two can make the difference on this occasion for the Ballymacarbry outfit.