Killeagh Clinches Thriller in Scorefest

Walsh’s Heroics Seal Dramatic Victory Over Na Piarsaigh

In a breathtaking display of hurling prowess, Killeagh emerged victorious in a high-scoring epic against Na Piarsaigh, ultimately triumphing by a single point. The contest, held in Midleton, was a testament to the teams’ resilience and offensive firepower.

Late Drama Seals the Deal

The defining moments arrived in the dying minutes, with **Barry Walsh** delivering two crucial frees in the 55th and 57th minutes. These scores, coupled with a point from **Ryan McCarthy** following a dynamic run by **Andy Long**, extended Killeagh’s lead to three. Despite **Daire Connery**’s last-gasp penalty goal, Killeagh held firm, securing a dramatic 54-score triumph.

A Game of Swings and Roundabouts

The lead frequently changed hands throughout the fiercely contested match. Na Piarsaigh, trailing by a single point at halftime after **Padraig Guest**’s late goal, launched a strong second-half comeback. Substitute **Cian Hogan** injected momentum from midfield, leveling the scores in the 37th minute.

Even after **Ryan McCarthy** found the net to put Killeagh up 1-21 to 1-19 in the 48th minute, Na Piarsaigh refused to yield. Within moments, they had drawn level again. However, **Barry Walsh**’s individual brilliance, netting a second goal under immense pressure, swung the game back in Killeagh’s favour.

Offensive Masterclass on Display

The sheer volume of scores, totalling 54, underscored the exceptional quality and attacking intent from both sides. **Ross O’Sullivan** was particularly effective for Na Piarsaigh, converting five scoring opportunities without a miss, including a spectacular effort that briefly put his team ahead in the 45th minute.

Tactical Nuances and First-Half Lead

The first half also showcased tactical sophistication, with both teams employing sweepers and extra midfielders. Killeagh established their largest lead of the game, a five-point margin, in the first half. However, **Padraig Guest**’s crucial goal just before halftime reduced the deficit, leaving Killeagh with a slender 0-14 to 1-10 advantage at the break.

Killeagh’s Scorers

Killeagh Scorers:

• Barry Walsh (1-8, 0-8f)
• R McCarthy (1-3)
• S Smiddy, S Long (0-4 each)
• E Lane (0-3)
• D McCarthy, Ben Walsh, R Long, C Fitzgibbon (0-1 each)

Na Piarsaigh’s Efforts

Na Piarsaigh Scorers:

• D Connery (1-8, 1-0 pen, 0-3f)
• R O’Sullivan (0-5, 0-1f)
• P Guest (1-1)
• Chanafin (0-3)
• K Moyfin (0-3)
• C Ogan (0-2)
• P Murphy, L Murphy, C Middle A Teacher (0-1 each)

Team Lineups

Killeagh:

• P O’Neill; B Delaney, P O’Brien, A Keniry; A Walsh, D Walsh, Ben Walsh; S Long, C Fitzgibbon; R Long, R McCarthy, S Smiddy; Barry Walsh, D McCarthy, E Lane.
• Subs: Colm Leahy for R Long (43), Ciarán Leahy for Lane (55).

Na Piarsaigh:

• L Donovan; K Buckley (c), C Flynn, G Joyce; P Murphy, C Buckley, C Meaney; G Healy, C Hanafin; K Moynihan, D Connery, P Guest; P Rourke, R O’Sullivan, O Galvin.
• Subs: C Hogan for Galvin (29), L Sheehan for Rourke (49), E Sheehan for Meaney (51).

The match was expertly officiated by referee Patrick O’Mahony from Kilbrittain. This thrilling encounter delivered on quality, tenacity, and edge-of-your-seat drama, characteristic of top-tier hurling.