Sarsfields 1-16

Loughgiel Shamrocks 3-9

By Eanna O’Reilly at Breffni Park

A stunning comeback victory for Sarsfields saw them qualify for their sixth consecutive All-Ireland senior club final as they overcame Loughgiel Shamrocks at Breffni Park in Cavan on Sunday. Michael ‘Hopper’ McGrath’s side appeared to be down and out in the first half of this semi-final, trailing their opponents by nine points.

It certainly looked as though Sarsfields had given the Ulster champions far too much of a head start, and that a high flying Loughgiel side were simply beyond their reach. However, the three time All-Ireland champions kept their composure and worked their way back into the contest.

Having been comprehensively outplayed for most of the first half, the Galway champions gradually imposed themselves and chipped away at the deficit. Sarsfields soon got on top throughout the field and reeled in their opponents as the second half progressed.

Hopper McGrath’s charges took the lead for the first time in the 62nd minute to complete a marvellous comeback. From a position of being 3-3 to 0-3 down in the first half, it was a testament to the resolve and determination of the Sarsfields players, who refused to fold under pressure against a top quality side.

It sets up the east Galway club for another tilt at the biggest prize in national club camogie, which they are seeking to win for the fourth time since 2020. Sarsfields will have the opportunity to make amends for their defeat to Kilkenny club Dicksboro in the title decider 12 months ago when they take on Clare and Munster champions Truagh-Clonlara at Croke Park on Sunday week,

However, the chances of Sarsfields appearing in their eight All-Ireland senior final appeared very remote halfway through the first half in Breffni Park. They were chasing a nine point deficit, after conceding three goals, and Loughgiel were threatening to run away with the game. The Ulster side made a blistering start and led by 2-1 to 0-0 after five minutes.

Lucia McNaughton opened the scoring for Loughgiel with a point inside the first 60 seconds. A minute later, a turnover in Sarsfields’ defence saw Caitrin Dobbin take possession close to goal and finish past Laura Glynn to the net.

Pictured: Sarsfields’ Caoimhe Kelly in a race for possession with Finuola McVeigh of Loughgiel Shamrocks during Sunday’s All-Ireland Club Senior Camogie semi-final at Breffni Park. Photos: INPHO/Laszlo Geczo.