Killimor reach new heights in thrilling semis showdown
Date Published: {J}
Killimor 0-9Oulart the Ballagh 0-8
Eoghan Cormican at Duggan Park
KILLIMOR’S camogie heroes are within sixty minutes of All-Ireland glory after they overcame Leinster Champions Oulart the Ballagh in an epic tussle at Duggan Park, Ballinasloe on Sunday last.
It may only have been a semi-final but the scenes of unbridled joy after Killimor outfought a much fancied Oulart the Ballagh side to advance to a first All Ireland Club final will be savoured in the East Galway village for some time to come.
In what was a special occasion for all involved in Killimor camogie, one but had to admire the manner in which they dismantled a seemingly imperious Oulart line-up in a display packed with honesty, grit and a savage work ethic.
The final moments played out in front of a terrific crowd at Duggan Park were drenched deep in tension and excitement, as was most of the hour’s camogie, which was of the highest quality.
Pound for pound Killimor deserved this victory. From goalkeeper Helen Campbell right through to second half substitute Anna Maria Lagana each player contributed to what can only be described as one of the major sporting upsets of recent times.
Camogie like any other sport is an unpredictable business. In the week prior to the club semi-final pundits and bookmakers alike dismissively rated Killimor the outsiders, a vast majority branding Tommy Callagy’s charges as ‘no hopers’.
At the end of the day, however, it’s fifteen against fifteen and no matter how much talent and skill a side possess it counts for nothing if it’s not mixed with the vital ingredients of spirit, heart and courage. And boy did Killimor show heart on Sunday.
Certainly, this was no flash in the pan victory. Indeed in hindsight, Killimor should have won with more to spare for they completely trumped Oulart in terms of sheer desire to win. Consequently, Killimor will almost certainly enter the decider as favourites regardless of whoever emerges from the second semi-final.
For more, read this week's Connacht Tribune.