St Michael’s advance to County B minor final

St Michael’s 0-17 Renvyle 2-10

St Michael’s made hard work of their Minor B West Board final victory over Renvyle on Saturday evening, nearly giving their opponents the chance to leave with a result.

The city side were on top for most of the game, especially in the second period, but come the final whistle Renvyle were only a point away from forcing a replay.

A penalty in each half from Barry John Salmon kept Renvyle keep in touch but they were also helped by some wayward shooting from St Michael’s in the second half. A superb all-round performance from midfielder Eamonn Brannigan, who kicked an individual tally of nine points, was the key to his side’s victory.

St Michael’s laid much of the groundwork for their victory in the opening stages of the second half. After just 37 minutes, they found themselves 0-11 to 1-4 ahead, hitting five unanswered scores in as many second half minutes. Brannigan was once again to the fore during this period, kicking the first four points of the half, including three from play.

Things could have been even better for St Michael’s when they were presented with a goal chance. Corner forward Mark Brown received the ball from Chris Sherlock in front of goal, but his low shot was well saved by the onrushing James Salmon in goal. The ball rebounded to Brown and he put his next effort over the bar.

St Michael’s now go on to face North Board champions Dunmore McHales in the county final where the midfield contest between Brannigan and Dunmore’s Matthew Reddington is sure to be one of the key match-ups.