Yesterday our U14 Camogie team played Belfast West Gaels in the Ulster Final at Pearse Og park in Armagh. Not deterred by the fact that the Belfast team was a combination of pupils from St Genevieve’s high school and St Louise’s, Belfast, our girls played their hearts out in a very tough battle. A battle with both sides reluctant to give up even in the poor weather conditions.
Our captain and midfielder Aoibhinn Daly had an excellent game continuously feeding the ball in to the forward line, providing crucial set ups for scores. In the back line Mollie O’Hanlon provided a strong and comfortable position clearing the ball many times to hold the Gaels back. At half time both sides were even on a score of 1:2 each.
The girls knew that it was all to play for and any mistakes made could be a turning point in the game. Megan O’Hanlon sister of Mollie gained a penalty and scored a superb goal. The 3rd O’Hanlon sibling, Lucy O’Hanlon, stood strong in goals, providing many crucial saves. Both keepers on each side had tremendous games keeping the scores well down.
Although the conditions were far from perfect both teams fought hard to the final whistle. However it was the Dean girls who ensured a 2 point lead with 2 minutes to go resulting that on the final whistle DMC would bring another Ulster title back to Carrickmore, Final score DMC 2:3 West Belfast Gaels 1:4. A huge congratulations to the whole team on a very successful year of camogie.
The girls will now reflect on their successful year and begin preparation for the next round of competitions. A special mention and thanks to the girls coaches and mentors Miss McCann and Miss McArdle. Thanks also to the Eire Og club for allowing the girls to use their facilities during the year. Thanks also to Pearse Og club in Armagh and referee Shane Hughes.