By Noel Dundon
St Flannan's 1-11, Thurles CBS 1-7
Thurles CBS' bid to bridge a 49-year gap fell just short in the Dr. Harty Cup Final at Nenagh last Saturday afternoon. St. Flannan's of Ennis proved their mettle as they powered to a record-breaking 21st title in schools hurling.
Once again, it was a second-half revival from the Thurles lads which added fire to this clash, but their efforts fell short when they got within two points of the victors in the closing stages. St. Flannan's fired over three points without reply to secure the title.
There was bitter disappointment in Thurles camp when the final whistle sounded. However, there were signs of a bright future, as the young team showcased skill and determination against a seasoned opposition with vastly more experience.
St. Flannan's had key men all over the pitch, but it was their midfield partnership of Damien O’Halloran and Conor Ryan who really drove them forward at crucial times. Seamus Hickey was also a tower of strength for them, finding space and punishing Thurles with his scoring ability.
No Sign of Nerves
The pitch was in excellent condition, and Thurles seemed to start well despite trailing 1-2 to 0-0 by the 11th minute.
Conor Ryan had opened the scoring for Thurles with a free, but Geoffrey fired home the decisive early goal for St. Flannan’s. St. Flannan’s dominated proceedings in the opening half, leaving Thurles struggling to get a foothold.
By halftime, Thurles had managed to claw their way back into contention but still trailed. They knew the second half would be crucial, and despite their best efforts, they could not close the gap. St. Flannan’s superior experience and composure came to the fore in the closing stages.
Standing Tall
Thurles' supporters rallied behind their team in the second half as the margin narrowed to just two points. A goal from substitute Brendan Moran inspired hope, but St. Flannan's quickly regained control, closing out the match with three crucial points.
The Thurles lads left everything on the pitch, but the sheer class of the St. Flannan’s team was evident as they saw out the game with efficiency. The Thurles boys can hold their heads high, knowing they gave it their all on the biggest stage.
Teams and Scorers:
St. Flannan’s:
J. Kelly; J. O’Donoghue, P. Moloney, M. O’Halloran; G. O’Brien, D. McNamara, S. O’Loughlin; D. O’Halloran (0-3, 2 frees), C. Ryan; S. Hickey (0-5, 4 frees), G. Cooney (0-2), J. Tuohy; F. McMahon, M. Mullins, N. Hogan.
Thurles CBS:
B. Maher; N. O’Brien, S. Cahill, J. Butler; R. Costello, P. Maher, T. Loughnane; D. O’Halloran, C. Ryan (0-2, frees); T. Webster, B. Moran (1-0), J. Flanagan (0-1); R. Gleeson, K. Fanning, J. Kennedy (0-4).
Subs:
E. McGrath for T. Webster; B. Moran for J. Flanagan; M. Feehan for R. Gleeson.
Referee: S. McGrath (Limerick)
