Stack goal proves key in Midleton triumph
MIDLETON CBS ended a 13-year drought for both themselves and Cork schools with victory in the Munster PPS U-19 ‘A’ HC final at Páirc Uí Rinn on Saturday.
While a Rebel County winner was guaranteed in the clash with CBC – competing in a first decider since 1918 – goal-taking ability proved crucial in swinging the outcome Midleton’s way.
They had the ideal start when Jason Hankard flicked Ryan McCarthy’s delivery home, and Ross O’Regan had them four ahead, but Pádraig Power’s freetaking underpinned a CBC revival as they scored seven of the next eight points. But for a good Cian Long save from Joe Stack (above), Midleton would have raised another green flag, but the sides were level at 1-7 to 0-10 at half-time.
Matters remained tight early in the second half, Power putting CBC ahead, but Midleton goalkeeper Jack McCann made a pair of outstanding saves, denying Niall Hartnett and Power, while Ryan McCarthy levelled in between.
McCarthy’s sixth point put Midleton ahead and though Power got his ninth to tie the game, Stack struck the decisive blow on 53, firing a volleyed effort to the net after David Barry blocked his first effort.
Though Power got another point in reply, the Midleton defence – led by outstanding captain Dylan Hogan – didn’t cough up a goal, and Ross O’Regan added two late points to guarantee victory.