Well balanced Clyda Rovers overcome Killavullen in U21 semi-final

Clyda Rovers 2-14 Killavullen 2-5

A physically stronger Clyda Rovers side proved far too good for a Killavullen side that had just two on the age in the Under 21 B FC semi-final at Mourneabbey last Wednesday night week.

From the start the winners gained control throughout the field. Garry Deane was outstanding at centre back and their attack in regular supply took some good scores. Eoin Walsh opened with a first minute point after good play by Cormac O’Reilly. David Cooney and Eoin Walsh followed with pointed frees. Kevin Graham soloed through and kicked a fine point, to leave it 0-4 to 0-0 after 9 minutes. Eoin Walsh and Dominic Cronin followed with points. David Cooney with a point had the winners 0-7 to 0-0 clear at the first water break.

The trend continued on the resumption, Dominic Cronin landed a fine point with Luke Brophy making it 0-9 to 0-0. Just before half-time, Darragh O’Grady had Killavullen’s opening score as they trailed 0-9 to 0-1 at the interval.

Killavullen introduced Kian Lane and Mark Nagle for the second half. David Walsh pointed for the Rovers. Killavullen improved greatly, Padraig Looney pointed and the same player placed Michael O’Connor who goaled. Looney had Killavullen’s second goal and suddenly the lead was down to 2 points, 0-10 to 2-2. Cian Walsh goaled for Clyda and the same player was fouled with Luke Brophy pointing the free, as Clyda led at the second water break 1-11 to 2-2.

Killavullen tried very hard but they lacked strength up front. Padraig Looney had two pointed frees before Cian Walsh and Dominic Cronin pointed, as Clyda moved 1-13 to 2-4 ahead. Cian Walsh had a great goal for Clyda following a three man attack.

The final score fell to Mark Nagle who pointed for Killavullen. Clyda Rovers will play either Kildorrery or Mitchelstown in the final.

Killavullen: Niall Murray, Conor Griffin, Ronan Barry, Michael Cagney, Jamie Magnier, Fionn Magnier, Patrick O’Grady, Brian Cotter, Eoin Birchill, Michael O’Connor (1-0), Liam Fox, Darragh O’Grady (0-1), Seamus O’Mahony, Padraig Looney (1-3 - 0-3f), Eddie Cotter. Subs: Kian Lane for Darragh O’Grady, Mark Nagle (0-1) for Brian Cotter (inj).

Referee: Dave Farrell (Mitchelstown).