A thrilling All-Ireland club IHC final at Croke Park saw Upperchurch-Drombane emerge victorious, but not without a dramatic battle against Tooreen.
The Road to Glory
Upperchurch-Drombane, the Tipperary champions, faced off against Tooreen, who had previous experience in the decider, having lost to Monaleen three years prior. The game was a rollercoaster, with Upperchurch's extra-time goals from Paddy Phelan, Conor Fahey, and Paul Shanahan securing their win. However, Tooreen showed incredible resilience, narrowing a 10-point deficit to just two points in the dying moments, thanks to late goals from Liam Lavin and David Harrison, followed by points from Fionn Delaney and Fergal Boland.
Controversial Moment?
And here's where it gets interesting: Fergal Boland, a Mayo football star, almost changed the course of the game with a point attempt. If he had been a few inches lower, Tooreen might have tied it up, leaving everyone wondering about the 'what ifs' of the match.
A Historic Win
Upperchurch-Drombane's victory is a significant milestone, as they became the first Tipperary team since Kiladangan in 2005 to lift the trophy. Fahey's two goals and Luke Shanahan's top-scoring performance with seven points were crucial to their success. Despite injuries ruling out key players Paudie Greene and Paddy Phelan, Upperchurch hit the ground running, especially after their impressive wins over Cork, Waterford, and Kilkenny champions.
The Turning Point
Tooreen dominated the early stages, leading by seven points with just five minutes left in the first half. But Upperchurch fought back, with Tooreen's 35-time Mayo senior champions experience seemingly making a difference. The game was tied at half-time, and Tooreen continued their momentum into the second half, leading by three points.
Divine Intervention?
Conor Fahey's 41st-minute goal for Upperchurch was a game-changer. He weaved his way through the defense and found the back of the net, keeping Upperchurch in the game. The match remained tight, with both teams trading blows, until Ryan's huge score from his own half forced extra time.
The Final Stretch
Upperchurch's two goals in extra time gave them a comfortable lead, but Tooreen's scoring siege in the last few minutes brought the game back to within two points. Upperchurch held on for the win, with their substitutes making crucial contributions.
And the Teams Were...
Upperchurch-Drombane: Ciaran Shortt, Mikey Lavery, Keith Ryan, Dean Carew, David Harrison, Gavin Ryan, Niall Grant, Diarmuid Grant, Aaron Ryan, Conor Fahey, Colm Ryan, Paul Shanahan, Mikey Griffin, Luke Shanahan, Pat Ryan.
Tooreen: Bobby Douglas, Conal Hession, Michael Morley, Oisin Greally, David Kenny, Stephen Coyne, Joe Boyle, Fergal Boland, Sean Kenny, Eoin Delaney, Brian Morley, John Cassidy, Liam Lavin, Shane Boland, Keeny Feeney.
Referee: Caymon Flynn (Westmeath).
What a game! Do you think Upperchurch-Drombane's win was a fair reflection of their performance, or did Tooreen's late surge deserve more? Share your thoughts in the comments!
