Comeragh Rangers have booked their place in the Munster Ladies Football Championship semi-final after edging out Cork champions Éire Óg in a gripping extra-time battle at St Molleran’s GAA grounds.
The Waterford champions, chasing back-to-back Munster final appearances, prevailed on a scoreline of 1-12 to 2-5 after extra-time in a gruelling contest played in difficult conditions.
Manager Ger Power praised his side’s determination and endurance, describing the match as a “real war of attrition.”
“It wasn’t a day for flashy football or anything like that,” Power said. “The girls showed real endurance, persistence, and resilience — qualities they’ve shown numerous times in the past. They just kept grinding and eventually got the result.”
The victory continues Comeragh Rangers’ impressive run of form following their second consecutive county title earlier this month. Power said his players’ defensive display was key to overcoming a talented Éire Óg side who had recently lifted their first Cork title after several near misses.
“Éire Óg have been in five finals over the last five years and finally got over the line this year,” he said. “They’ve a lot of really good players, but our defence stayed compact and disciplined. To limit them to seven scores in 80 minutes of football is a huge credit to the team.”
Comeragh Rangers’ strength in depth also proved decisive, with the manager highlighting the contribution of his substitutes.
“We used seven or eight subs and didn’t weaken at any stage,” Power explained. “The teamwork and camaraderie within the group is absolutely fantastic — there are no egos, and everyone is willing to give everything for one another.”
Next up for Comeragh Rangers is a Munster semi-final clash against Clare champions Kilmihil, which is expected to take place next weekend — likely again at St Molleran’s, subject to confirmation.
Power said his team would prepare carefully and approach the tie with the same focus that has defined their season.
“We don’t know a lot about Kilmihil yet, but we’ll spend the next few days finding out,” he said. “We won’t be taking anything lightly — every team left at this stage is a serious challenge. For us, it’s another opportunity to learn, grow and develop further.”
The Comeragh boss also praised his backroom team — including Paudie Nugent, Stephen Flynn, Declan Hahessy, and Michael O’Loughlin — for their work across physical, tactical, and mental preparation.
“This group is constantly growing,” he said. “They work hard on every side of their game, and that mindset of learning and improving every week is what drives them forward.”
While the schedule has been demanding — with the county final on October 3rd followed quickly by provincial fixtures — Power says his side are grateful to still be competing deep into the year.
“We’re in a privileged position,” he said. “A lot of teams would love to be where we are. We’ll manage recovery carefully this week and make sure we’re ready to go again.”
Power also paid tribute to the supporters who braved the poor weather conditions to cheer on the team on Sunday.
“The support we had yesterday was absolutely outstanding,” he said. “It really drove the team on. We’re very grateful to St Molleran’s for the use of their pitch — the venue and organisation were fantastic.”
