Ardrahan girls squeeze home in Feile thriller

Ardrahan 1-2 Craughwell 1-1

Eoghan Cormicanat Kenny Park

CRAUGHWELL’S fervent hopes of a first ever Feile camogie title lay in tatters on the turf of Kenny Park, Athenry, after an enthralling final with South Galway neighbours Ardrahan.

‘This far and no further you shall go’ was the stark message from an Ardrahan side, who despite failing to score in the first period, came good in a brainstorming second half to snatch victory.

While overall, the skill levels of this County final were somewhat disappointing, the contest itself lacked nothing by the way of excitement or indeed, passion and commitment from the players. Simply every ball was fought for with great conviction and possession won was hard earned.

First time finalists Craughwell began in whirlwind fashion, hitting the front on two minutes through a point from the lively Shauna Burke. Ardrahan, showing nervously in front of goals, wasted early chances with Cliodhna Walsh and Katie Quinn shooting consecutive wides.In truth, Craughwell should have held a far more commanding half time lead with Ardrahan ’keeper Claire Higgins proving impenetrable between the sticks.

On two successive occasions full forward Shauna Burke sliced open the defensive unit only to see both efforts blocked away by the outstanding young custodian.

Indeed approaching half time Aisling Connolly’s superb inside pass to Leanne Freaney looked to have Craughwell on the brink of a green flag, but again, Higgins proved equal to the effort.

The victors levelled proceedings early in the second half – Katie Quinn requiring two attempts to finally put Ardrahan on the scoreboard. In the ensuing passage of play, Captain Denise Diviney broke through the Craughwell rearguard to strike the game’s decisive score. Diviney failed to make connection with her initial effort but made no mistake with the subsequent ground pull.

Craughwell, however were not prepared to throw in the towel just yet, even if the form of opposition ‘keeper Claire Higgins must surely have been a source of deep frustration. The net minder, keeping her side’s three point lead intact when deflecting Shauna Burke’s ’21 yard free away to safety.

For more, read this week's Connacht Tribune.