Following the qualification of the local ladies footballers for a Munster Senior Final the previous week, Gailltir’s senior camogie team ensured that the area had further reason to celebrate when they booked their place in the provincial decider against Cork champions St. Finbarr’s.

Gailltir secured their place in the final after overcoming a spirited Clanmaurice challenge at the Ballygunner Club Grounds on Sunday afternoon, although the home supporters were given plenty to worry about before their side eventually prevailed.

Clanmaurice arrived in Waterford in a confident mood following a convincing victory over Newcastlewest in the quarter-final, and they certainly made their presence felt during an entertaining first half.

Gailltir started brightly, with Annie Fitzgerald and Laoise Forrest opening their account, but a converted Patrice Diggin free brought the visitors within a point after nine minutes.

Fitzgerald added her second before Clanmaurice struck a major blow in the 18th minute. Following a foul on Jackie Hogan, referee Joe Mullins awarded a penalty, which Diggin dispatched emphatically to the net.

Further points from Hogan and Kate Lynch, along with another Diggin free, saw Clanmaurice move 1-3 to 0-3 ahead.

However, Gailltir finished the half strongly. Fitzgerald produced an excellent run through the visitors’ defence before delivering a delightful pass to Caoimhe Flynn, who finished to the net from close range to level matters.

Points from Laoise Forrest either side of the half-hour mark gave Gailltir a 1-5 to 1-3 advantage at the interval.

The home side maintained their momentum after the restart, with Forrest converting two frees to extend the lead to four points.

The introduction of Maria Brennan in the 44th minute provided another boost, as she immediately made her presence felt with a point from play.

With Forrest and Annie Fitzgerald adding further scores, Gailltir gradually strengthened their position. Converted frees from Brennan and Forrest moved them closer to victory.

Clanmaurice continued to battle, and Patrice Diggin reduced the deficit before a dramatic incident in the 58th minute changed the complexion of the closing stages.

Following a consultation with his linesman and umpires, referee Joe Mullins issued a straight red card to Gailltir goalkeeper Noelle Murphy.

Gailltir responded by introducing replacement goalkeeper Vicky O’Sullivan, with Ali Ferguson making way. Diggin’s resulting free, however, sailed over the crossbar.

The home side finally made certain of victory when Emma Fitzgerald delivered an excellent ball across the field to Annie Fitzgerald, who finished brilliantly to the net.

Gailltir can now look forward to a Munster Senior Camogie Final meeting with St. Finbarr’s as they continue their bid for provincial honours.

Credit Article Source: Thomas Keane

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