U9 City League finals took place on Sunday 13th October in Castlegar GAA grounds.
The 2 semi-finals were Carnmore vs Castlegar and Ardrahan vs Cois Farraige. Ten minutes a half with nine-a-side and two winners were to contest the final which would be played shortly after semi finals were finished.
Carnmore assembled a squad of 22 players and with one player injured before finals, allowing all 21 players the chance to participate was a huge challenge.
In first semi final, Castlegar started well while Carnmore settled to task and scored first. Leading 1–1 to 1–0 at half time thanks a super goal from Alannah Fahy and a mighty point from Sarah Cogley, Carnmore defended resolutely for second half resulting in no further scores and qualified for the final.
Carnmore opponents in the final were a very good Ardrahan team who had defeated Carnmore 2–0 to 1–0 the previous week in qualifiers. The large crowd of parents, relatives and friends witnessed a brilliant game between two very worthy and skilful teams with a high standard of camogie that would have been more evident in an older age group.
The opening score went to Carnmore when a perfectly executed line ball was sent flying to the net by Niamh Donovan. This was followed by two fantastic points brilliantly scored from midfield by Sarah Cogley. Ardrahan replied with a point in between which left half-time score of Carnmore 1–2, Ardrahan 0–1.
In the second half, both teams kept up the pressure and Ardrahan added to their score with a well taken goal. With both teams hitting some wides, the determination and wonderful skills on display had everyone tense with excitement and a one point lead looked sure to be temporary. To the credit of all players, the scores were not to come but the intensity and commitment from both sides certainly stood out and that the final whistle would signal the end of a very special game by very special group of players from both sides.
Carnmore edged a wonderful game on scoreboard by 1–2 to 1–1 and all 21 players played some part in one or both games and all contributed 100%! Well done to all Carnmore girls—ye are a credit to our club.
A special word of thanks to all families, friends and Carnmore officials who were instrumental in providing massive support to the team.
Back L–R: Bronagh Kelly, Elsa Luculano, Emma Moore, Ava Moore, Rosin Collins, Aisling McHugh, Ava O’Flynn, Rachel Fahy, Ciara Donoghue, Maire Geraghty, Ailbhe Murphy, Alannah Fahy, Leah O’Halloran.
Front L–R: Ailbhe Lenihan, Emer Maher, Ava Killian, Jade Heery, Sarah Cogley (Capt), Niamh Donovan, Ava Brennan, Holly McGrath, Aoife Collins.
Mentors: Tom Cogley, Kevin Collins, David Killian, Alan Kenny, John Donovan.
Team, families & supporters celebrate after game.
A special thanks to Glynns Centra for providing treats for girls in Carnmore Centre after game and to all who helped out. A tour of the parish followed and was so well supported by all in Carnmore and Claregalway. A big thanks to all for coming out and supporting the team during Tour of the parish as made it a very special occasion for all. For most girls this represents their first success in camogie and we are sure it will not be their last.
