Clonakilty Shine through in Thrilling Junior A Hurling Quarter-Final
The RCM Junior A hurling quarter-finals delivered two nail-biting encounters that left fans on the edge of their (virtual) seats. While the games were intense, it’s hard to deny that the spotlight was firmly on Clonakilty as they secured a hard-fought victory over Newcestown in Ballinacarriga.
In a game that had fans buzzing with excitement, Clonakilty managed to secure a win with a five-point lead over Newcestown. It was a sweet revenge for Clonakilty, who were determined to erase the memories of last season’s unexpected semi-final defeat. The turning point in the match came in the 29th minute when Mark White scored a crucial goal that proved to be the defining moment of the game. Despite Newcestown’s valiant efforts to stage a comeback, they could only narrow the gap from eight points down to three in the closing minutes.
Meanwhile, the second semi-final, held in Rossmore, was nothing short of a thriller. St James and Diarmuid Ó Mathúna battled fiercely throughout ordinary time, extra time, and even a nerve-wracking penalty shootout. The excitement reached its peak when the match ended in sudden death. St James emerged victorious after converting the ninth penalty, while Mathúna’s team fell short. It’s unfortunate that the GAA club season has become so tightly packed, forcing teams into this unfamiliar penalty shootout format to meet championship deadlines.
As the semi-finals approach, all eyes are on Clonakilty as they prepare to face off in a local derby against neighbours, Ballinascarthy. It promises to be a showdown filled with local rivalry and intense competition. On the other side of the draw, St James will lock horns with Kilbree in what is sure to be another thrilling clash.
Both of these highly anticipated matches are scheduled for October 8th with Kilbree and St James facing off first in Ahiohill at 2:30pm followed by the eagerly awaited Clon v Bal game at 4:30pm in Enniskeane.
