CLAREGALWAY 1-15

DUNMORE MACHALES 0-12

By Martin Nally in Milltown

CLAREGALWAY were crowned the North Board U-19 champions after deservedly overcoming Dunmore MacHales in this refixed decider in Milltown last Wesnesday.

Storm Amy was responsible for the final being delayed but a huge crowd gathered in the North Galway village on what was a perfect evening for football.

While Claregalway donned their away navy blue and black jerseys, Dunmore abandoned their familiar green colours, and instead were togged out in their less familiar purple-and-white-hoops jerseys.

There was a lively start to the contest with two Barry Murray frees cancelling out early Claregalway efforts by Matthew Collins and Ronan Duggan.

The Balchie lads retook the lead for a third time when Mark Concannon’s effort just crept over the bar before the lively Collins struck over his second of the night with a delightful point.

While Dunmore were working hard to get their scores which were coming from placed balls, Claregalway were finding scores easier to come by as they were dominating their opponent’s kickouts.

As the first quarter drew to a close, more pressure on the Dunmore kickout allowed Claregalway to win possession with Daniel Fitzmaurice embarking on a marauding run. As he bore down on goal, he let fly, burying the ball to the roof of the net. A brilliant goal.

Dunmore responded with a Robert Glynn point from a free but it was Claregalway who continued to dominate proceedings. Matthew Collins quick turn created space and he popped over a quality point and moments later he added another from a free.

Fionnan Coleman got a much needed score for his side which was their first from play but Collins, who was a constant danger all night, got his fifth point of the final as half-time approached.

There was time for Dunmore to score a stylish point in additional time as Dylan Hannon sent in a great ball to Barry Murray and he in turn struck over a fine score for his team. Claregalway led by double scores at the break, 1-7 to 0-5.

The winners were quick out of the blocks on the resumption when Seàn O’Callaghan caught a high ball, used his strength to make space, before popping it over the bar. He scored a replica point moments later as Claregalway continued to dominate.

Pictured: Jonathan Meehan of Dunmore McHales takes the ball out of defence as teammate Daniel Fitzmaurice and Claregalway’s Dylan Hannon are ready to react during the North Board Under 19 A Football Final in Milltown last Wednesday. Photo: Joe Keane.