Oran come through gripping camogie decider

Oran came through a thrilling affair to defeat St. Dominic’s 1-11 to 2-6 to claim their first Senior A title since 2002.

With the sides deadlocked at 1-8 to 2-5 after 55 minutes of compelling action, a replay appeared the likeliest scenario. However, Oran struck over three of the final four scores with Amdrea Fallon’s brace and a Hazel Kelly free helping them inch past a St. Dominic’s side who have now lost four of the last five county finals.

Despite their inexperience at this level, Oran started much the quicker and raced into a 1-3 to no score lead inside the opening quarter. Oran’s goal came from Claire Curley after fine work in the build up from Andrea Fallon and Erin McDermott.

St. Dominic’s hit back in emphatic fashion. Aimee O’Connor flicked a Lily Murray delivery to the net before Susan Spillane rifled home a penalty after Ciara Kilcommins was fouled. Kaitlin Egan moved St. Dominic’s in front, but Oran finished the half strong as two Orla Connolly placed balls and a Hazel Kelly free saw them lead 1-6 to 2-2 at the interval.

The third quarter was low on scores but high on drama as Kelly (free) and Kilcommins traded efforts for their sides. St. Dominic’s had a chance to move in front but Susan Spillane’s oenalty was well saved by Michaela Fallon. Aimee O’Connor carved out a goalscoring opportunity three minutes later but was denied by Fallon.

Mia White struck two points to tie the game with 55 minutes remaining but Colm Kelly’s side powered for home as two Andrea Fallon efforts alongside an Orla Connolly free ensured an historic success for Oran.

Meanwhile, in the Senior B final, a hat trick of goals from Triona McDonald ensured Four Roads ran out 4-7 to 1-9 victors over Athleague.

Reports from both games and reaction from the Senior A final in next week’s Roscommon Herald