Shannon Gaels bring Boyle back down to earth
Shannon Gaels corner-forward, Michaela Dunne, who scored 1-4 from play, in action against Boyle in Croghan on Sunday morning. Picture: Bernie O'Farrell
Shannon Gaels enjoyed a sweet local derby success against North Roscommon neighbours and defending senior ladies’ football champions, Boyle, in Croghan this morning.
The home side were battle-hardened after a decent display came up short against St. Brigid’s last weekend whereas Boyle had things all their own way against Kilbride.
And it was that competitive edge that stood to Shannon Gaels as they deservedly triumphed by 1-7 to 0-6.
Michaela Dunne grabbed the only goal of the game in the 11th minute as a poor first half ended with Shannon Gaels in front by 1-0 to 0-2.
Boyle were forced to chase the game that little bit more after the break and that allowed Dunne to wreak havoc on the back of some excellent turnovers from Christina Beirne, Feena Beirne and company.
Dunne ended up with a personal tally of 1-4, while Christina Beirne, Chloe Dunne and Sorcha Bruen also pitched in with scores.
Boyle were awarded a penalty late on, but in keeping with her side’s indifferent performance, Micheala Ward screwed her spot kick wide.
In this morning’s other senior ladies’ championship contest, St. Brigid’s displayed a serious statement of intent with a 3-17 to 0-9 victory against St. Dominic’s in Knockcroghery.
Led by Kate Nolan and Abby Curran at midfield alongside Marian Nolan’s accuracy, Brigid’s were 0-11 to 0-5 ahead at the break and an unanswered 2-2 at the three-quarter stage — the goals coming from Joanne Gallagher substitute Sarah O’Rourke — left the issue in no doubt.
O’Rourke went on to add her second goal of the morning as Brigid’s secured their second championship win from as many games against a St. Dominic’s side that were missing Aoife Gavin — tormentor-in-chief during her side’s credible draw against Clann na nGael a week earlier.
Beforehand, both games observed a minute’s silence in memory of former Kilbride senior ladies’ captain, Rochelle Mullaney.
As a result, the remaining game between Éire Óg and Kilbride, scheduled for Loughglynn, was postponed.
