More heartbreak as camogie stars just come up short

Wexford 2-7Galway 1-8

Eoghan Cormican at Croke Park

It may not have been the familiar September tale of Wexford strength and Galway shortcomings, but, in the end, it was the all too familiar emotion for Galway on All Ireland final day.

For the third time in four years Galway knocked on the door of champions, this time with greater force than ever before, once more, however, they were turned away.

Just as they had done last year, Wexford lifted the O’Duffy Cup without having to produce a sixty minute effort, while, yet again, Galway failed to cross the line which continues to prove so elusive. 

Galway’s display, full of heart and determination, was infinitely better than that of 12 months ago but still came up short against the game’s new powerhouse. Nobody could question the team’s bottle, resolve or temperament, but their killer instinct, the vital instrument of champions, eluded them and when Ursula Jacob goaled in the 52nd minute, Wexford always looked the more likely winners.

Jacob nudged Wexford ahead subsequently, after Heather Cooney was deemed to have fouled Kate Kelly. Galway had half chances and Brenda Hanney possibly had claims for a free, but Jacob’s fifth point in injury time, her first from play, ensured Wexford would record a remarkable league and championship double for the second successive year.

Long before throw-in on Sunday it was widely acknowledged that if Galway were to finally succeed, they needed to perform at a level not reached this year. To be fair, they delivered a performance that would have carried most All Irelands, but Wexford are a truly exceptional side underlined by their belief that the game was never beyond them, despite being outclassed in several quarters.

They registered just four scores from play over the hour, two of which arrived in the final eight minutes and didn’t score from play until the 39th minute. Last year’s Player of the match Katrina Parrock failed to score as did club mate Kate Kelly, who picked up the accolade on Sunday night. Somehow they still emerged victorious.

In retrospect, the outcome of this enthralling battle was determined on the home stretch, where from a position of being three points ahead, Galway failed to score again, whereas Wexford showing all the convictions of champions, hit 1-2 without reply.

The turning point that undid all of Galway’s earlier work had its root in a throw ball on the Cusack Stand side that Galway failed to win. Josie Dwyer secured possession before releasing a probing delivery that was excellently caught by Ursula Jacob. The finish, high to Susan Earner’s net was sublime.

Having enjoyed a three point lead on three separate occasions in the second period, Galway, for some reason, could never quite tighten the noose around Wexford’s neck and when JJ Doyle’s charges caught the scent of victory, it was to be fatal for Galway.

For more, read this week's Connacht Tribune.