Patrick Fitzgerald fired 1-5 from play as Ballygunner were crowned Division 1 champions at Walsh Park on Friday night. Darragh O'Sullivan's side defeated great rivals Mount Sion 1-23 to 0-17.
Billy O'Keeffe finished as top scorer for the reigning All Ireland champions with nine points while his brother Stephen saved a second half penalty from Austin Gleeson. Dessie Hutchinson sat out the game as did Pauric, Philip and Mikey Mahony.
The Gunners led 13-8 at half time with free taker Billy O'Keeffe shooting five points. Sion goalkeeper Scott Ryan made fine saves from Cormac Power and Patrick Fitzgerald.
Fitzgerald goaled 26 seconds into the second period after Jake Foley intercepted a short puckout. He struck 1-3 in the third quarter.
Austin Gleeson was introduced at half time for Sion. On 42 minutes, Alan Kirwan was fouled by Barry Coughlan for a penalty. Gleeson stepped up but Stephen O'Keeffe was equal to his shot. The 2016 Hurler of the Year sent over a trademark sideline but they couldn't peg back the Gunners. Free taker Martin 'Blondie' O'Neill was Sion's main marksman with ten points.
Ballygunner start their defence of the News & Star Cup on Saturday, July 30 against Passage. The following day, Mount Sion will take on Abbeyside at Fraher Field.
