On Friday March 15th, our second-year hurlers traveled to Thomastown to play Knockbeg from County Laois in the semi-final. The conditions overhead were perfect, while the conditions underfoot were not so ideal. However, both teams were happy to progress to try to book their spot in the final.
The Scoil Aireagail boys got the scoreboard up and running with a well-taken score from Cian Franks. However, some quick thinking from Knockbeg led to the Scoil Aireagail boys conceding a goal. It was a rocky start by the lads, but they soon found their feet. Cian Franks and Conor Holohan kept the scoreboard ticking for Scoil Aireagail against a very strong wind. Reece Drennan gave a JJ Delaney-like performance at full-back with his blocking and hooking, while Cathal Aylward showed great fight and athleticism at wing-back to carry and deliver the ball against the wind. A great save from Gabrielius Balsys in the 20th minute prevented a second goal. As the Knockbeg boys tried to keep our forwards from getting shots on target, some quick thinking by Mr. Mason led to Conor Holohan catching the Knockbeg players off guard and putting the ball in the back of the net.
Half-time score: Scoil Aireagail 2:6 Knockbeg 2:2
In the second half, we had the wind at our backs, which forced Knockbeg to play a sweeper, resulting in Seamus Murphy carrying out the same role and cleaning up in the half-back line. The work rate all over the pitch was immense to watch, as each player fought for every ball as if it were their last. It soon became evident that our hunger was too much for the Knockbeg boys. Knockbeg’s frustration didn’t have any impact on the Scoil Aireagail boys as they did their talking on the scoreboard. Great work rate and link play from Jamie Murphy, Jack O’Dwyer, and Rhys Power coming into the final stages.
Final Score: Scoil Aireagail 3:14 Knockbeg 2:3
The Scoil Aireagail boys are now looking forward to the County Final after Easter.
