Subs: Ken Hughes (Kilkenny) (0-1) (for Kelly), Damien Hurley (Kilkeny) (for Muldowney)

MatchReport:

In becoming the best, you do not always produce the best display and at times, the most awaited matches seem to disappoint somewhat. In saying that, you do what you can to win.

This is exactly what St. Kieran’s College did to overcome the powerful St. Colmans, Fermoy side to take pole position in the roll of honour. This epic encounter took place in Semple Stadium, Thurles.

The match played with high intensity even though it went ahead in terrible conditions. A gale force wind blowing downfield prevented the game of free flowing hurling which we are all used to. No fancy skill was seen, but blocks down and endless supplies of energy made this game a nail-biting fianle.

Kieran’s showed us a different side of their hurling ability and rolled up their sleeves and were able to come out on top from many one-on-one battles. Colmans were just behind as half time approached, a goal and four points for the Kilkenny men and five for the Munster champions. This did not dampen their spirit and opened the scoring in the second half with a great point from Pat O Connor from the middle of the park. The levelling score came in the forty second minute and the game seemed to be turning in Fermoy’s favour. This was a time to show determination and heart and Kieran’s did not give in under pressure. Martin Carey was put back in goal and this proved to be a successful move, as he pulled off many great saves in the last twenty minutes. At the centre of defence, Ciaran Connery was in a class of his own and was an inspiration to the rest of the team. In giving this credit to the Kilkenny side, Colmans still threw the game away as in the closing stages they shot five wides in scoring opportunities. A point from Aidan O’Brien, yet again left the minimum between the sides in the closing stages.

Even though the game was heavy going from both sides, Kieran’s was well able to handle it while Colman’s had a chance after chance, but did not avail of the opportunity. This win brought Kieran’s up a level, par with St Flannan’s of Ennis, as they now both have eleven championships to their credit.

Back Row: Ciaran Muldowney, Alan Forde, Sean Foley, Kyran Vaughan, Michael Fitzgerald, Chris Foley, Mr. Tom Hogan (Trainer), Lorcan Carroll, Liam Smith, Justin Hanrahan, Damien Hurley, Mr. Art Anglin (Selector).

Middle Row: Nicholas Lacey, Brian Cahill, Joe Philpott, Richie Kelly, Ciaran Connery (Capt.), Martin Carey, Clive Kenny, Peter Barry, Shane Doyle, Mr. Tommy Lanigan (Trainer).

Front Row: Ken Hughes, Eugene Somers, Brendan Dalton, Vincent O’Brien, James Young, Michael Owens.

Absent: Ollie Blanchfield.