Wexford backbone winning DCU team

THE WEXFORD representation was strong in Stradbally, Co. Laois, on Wednesday when D.C.U. defeated U.L. by 1-20 to 2-15 to clinch the All-Ireland freshers Division 1 hurling title. And the charge to victory was spearheaded by inter-county defender Damien Reck who picked off four points from his midfield berth as well as playing a key role in the decisive goal with 20 minutes left, scored by Murtha Doyle of Oulart-The Ballagh who also grabbed a brace of points.

Rory O’Connor of St. Martin’s also scored two points for the winners from corner-forward, and the triumphant team also featured his clubmate, Conor Firman, at left half-back, as well as Liam Pender from Duffry Rovers who partnered Reck at midfield.

The presence of James Henebery (Faythe Harriers) and Eoin Cullen (Liam Mellows) on the bench bolstered the Wexford involvement to seven players in all, while James Donoghue of Blackwater was a mentor with D.C.U. who were retaining their title.

The losing U.L. side also had a Wexford connection, as Rathnure’s Cathal O’Connor was their right corner-back.

The freshers Division 2 decider was held on Thursday, and Ger Dempsey of Glynn-Barntown featured at left half-back on the successful Trinity College side in their victory against U.U.J.