Galway girls come close to pulling off big shock in thriller

Galway 3-10 Dublin 3-10

John Mulligan in Nenagh 

McDONAGH Park, Nenagh has played host to many great games over the years in all codes.

However, it’s doubtful if the drama and excitement that unfolded on Bank Holiday Monday has often been matched as Galway and Dublin played out an All-Ireland Final draw in front of nearly a thousand passionate supporters.

Galway fans may be justified in thinking they came out the wrong side of several decisions on Monday last. They could also point out that the start they got was maybe a little too perfect given the timing. But they will certainly be proud of the way their team performed and in the character they showed, especially when it looked as if they would be denied in the cruellest way possible.

This All-Ireland minor ladies football final was the game that had everything. Six goals, four yellow cards, one red card and high drama, plus two never-say-die teams. Galway had to wait for only 38 seconds to get their opening score through the boot of Shauna Hynes.

The next five minutes saw Galway score a further 2-1 without reply with Emma Reaney and Ciana Ni Churraoin both finding the net with well worked goals. It was also a time that saw referee Keith Delahunty tick the entire Galway full back line.

Even though Dublin responded with some fine points through Carla Rowe, Ciara McGuigan, Michelle Davoren and Eabha Rutledge, they looked like they had been stung by Galway’s pace in the opening 30 minutes with players like Reaney, the Ward sisters, Hynes and Megan Kelly all coming to the fore.

When Shauna Hynes hammered home in the 19th minute, Galway looked in a strong position. However, that period of time also saw two players facing the wrath of the referee with Alice Meagher and Michelle Joyce both picking up yellow cards and spending time in the sin bin. Decisions that surprised the Galway support present.