Clonakilty win SFL Div2 after Extra Time
In a dramatic showdown at a rain-soaked Ballygarvan, Clonakilty emerged victorious in the 2024 McCarthy Insurance Group Cork GAA Division 2 county football league final, edging past St. Michael’s in extra time. The thrilling encounter not only earned Clonakilty the title but also provided a psychological boost ahead of their upcoming Premier SFC clash against their Group B county championship rivals.
The match kicked off with Clonakilty’s Brian White converting two frees, countered by a score from Luke O’Herlihy. Despite several missed opportunities from both sides, Tadgh Deasy managed to level the scoreline 17 minutes in. Deasy’s subsequent free, converted by O’Herlihy, gave St. Michael’s their first lead. Deasy then showcased his prowess with a long-range point, extending their lead to 0-4 to 0-2. Andrew Murphy further bolstered St. Michael’s momentum with their fifth point.
As the rain intensified, Clonakilty ended their scoring drought with a free from Darragh Gough, followed by a point from Conor Daly, narrowing the gap to one. Brian White’s third free equalised the scores, setting the stage for a pivotal moment. A penalty awarded for a foul on Clonakilty’s corner-back Fionnan Leahy was expertly converted by Luke O’Herlihy, sending St. Michael’s into the break with a 1-5 to 0-5 lead.
Despite the deteriorating weather conditions, Clonakilty started the second half strong. A brilliant effort from Daragh Gough and a point from Simon Murphy brought them within striking distance. Conor Daly then capped off a flowing move to level the scores at 1-5 to 0-8. The teams traded points, with Luke O’Herlihy, Fergal Murphy, and Adam Hennessy all finding the target.
With 15 minutes left, Simon Murphy’s goal attempt sailed over the bar, nudging Clonakilty ahead. Tadgh Deasy and Daragh Gough exchanged scores before Simon Murphy found the net, giving Clonakilty a three-point cushion. Brian White’s fourth free extended the lead to four points as the match neared its conclusion.
Late scores from Billy Cain and Keith Hegarty brought St. Michael’s within one point. In a tense finale, Tom Clancy’s goal-line block prevented a last-gasp goal, but Tadgh Deasy’s 45′ conversion sent the game to extra time.
During extra time, both teams continued to battle fiercely. Luke O’Herlihy and Maurice Shanley scored early on, and Simon Murphy’s point was countered by Keith Hegarty. It was Conor Daly’s late free that ultimately secured Clonakilty’s victory in this classic encounter.
Scorers for Clonakilty:
- Simon Murphy: 1-3
- Brian White: 0-4 (0-4 f)
- Darragh Gough: 0-3 (0-1 f)
- Conor Daly: 0-3
- Fergal Murphy: 0-1
- Maurice Shanley: 0-1
