Morrissey in top form as Mellows get the job done

Liam Mellows 2-9

Loughrea 0-12

Liam Mellows held off a brave Loughrea fightback at Kenny Park last Sunday to book their place against Turloughmore in the County Minor A Hurling Final, running out 2-9 to 0-12 winners.

Mellows did the damage in the first half as they built a 2-5 to 0-2 advantage by the 24th minute which proved crucial.

Adrian Morrissey scored a goal in the 17^th minute, and they stretched that lead further in the next seven minutes. After Loughnane and Morrissey traded points, Liam Mellows attacked with purpose down the central channel that put them through for a second goal through Stephen Killeen.

Cathal Foy got Liam Mellows’ opening point of the second half in the 39th minute and Sean Doyle registered another on the three quarter mark after an attack down the right started with a superb Stephen Barrett interception. But Loughrea were staying in range as Mooney and Loughnane twice more had their side within two points entering the final straight (2-7 to 0-11).

It could have been better as a Dylan Stewart goal in the 50th minute didn’t count after a foul was blown beforehand but Loughrea would have further chances. Conor Jennings did ship off two challenges to put over a fine point; Mooney hit the upright with another effort; while the late chances for Keary and Sweeney couldn’t yield a green flag.

While quieter in the second half, Morrissey added two late frees for a personal tally of 1-7 but more importantly, helped to secure Mellows’ place in Sunday week’s county final.

Unfortunate with one or two breaks, Loughrea will look to missed attempts as the main reason for their downfall. Gibbons, Jennings, Mooney and Loughnane were their top performers though Daniel McManus, Eoin Mulligan, Sweeney and Keary also worked hard.

Liam Mellows’ first half exploits ultimately proved the deciding factor but they should never have allowed their opponents a glimpse of hope near the end. Morrissey was the game’s top player, Barrett the main defender with Doyle, Cathal Reilly, Kevin Lee, Mark Hughes, McDonagh and Foy also catching the eye throughout the hour.