COMPARISONS could not be made on Ballyea’s maiden Clare SHC success in 2016 and their latest glory only that the same man was at the helm who said the awarding of a penalty to Aaron Griffin was a major turning point.
*James Carey and Fionnoula Moloney Carey, with retired greyhounds Ariana and Vic at Limerick Greyhound Stadium for the Ag Rásaíocht Le Chéile night and Matchbook Irish St. Leger Quarter Finals. Fast Fit Paddy handled by Liscannor’s Declan McDonagh is the only Banner hope of winning this year’s Matchbook Betting Exchange Irish St Leger.
*Man of the match, Niall Deasy with his nephew Eli. Photograph: Natasha Barton CLAIMING a third Clare SHC title in six years has proven Ballyea’s ability but winning their latest championship without Tony Kelly has shown they are not a one man team according to Niall Deasy.
AS SUPPORTERS pushed their way through the crowds to extend congratulations, Cathal O’Connor wore a broad smile.
*Jack Browne raises aloft the Canon Hamilton. Photograph: Natasha Barton Ballyea’s character and self-belief proved to be critical as they claimed a third Clare SHC title.
JAMES Murphy has been ever-present at wing back on the three Ballyea teams to taste senior championship glory.
Through his performances for Ballyea this year, Gary Brennan has been one of the hurlers of the championship but their success stemmed from a strong panel effort, he maintained.
*Delight is etched on the face of Pearse Lillis as he celebrates with Gary Brennan and Mossy Gavin. Photograph: Gerard O’Neill Ballyea have been crowned Clare SHC champions for the third time after securing a dramatic one point win over Inagh/Kilnamona.
*David Fitzgerald’s fitness is a big concern for Inagh/Kilnamona. Photograph: Gerard O’Neill A very tight affair is predicted for Sunday’s Clare SHC final between Ballyea and Inagh/Kilnamona with the fitness of Aidan McCarthy and David Fitzgerald cited as influential in determining the outcome.
*Paul Flanagan brings the ball forward with Eoin Guilfoyle keeping tabs. Photograph: Gerard O’Neill Hurling is no longer the number one priority in Paul Flanagan’s life and he’s enjoying the game much more as a result.