Stirring victory for Galway camogie team

Date Published: 06-Jul-2010

Galway 1-14 Cork 0-11

Eoghan Cormican

in Athenry

THE burning desire of the Galway senior camogie team to bring the O’Duffy Cup west of the Shannon for the first time in 14 years was clearly illustrated in Kenny Park, Athenry as the Tribeswomen tore title holders Cork asunder in a performance of substance, stature and self-belief.

Although only early July and perhaps a little premature to be contemplating success on the second Sunday of September, wins over the League and All Ireland champions in a period of eight days is sure to raise expectations amongst the sporting fraternity within the county, and on the basis of Saturday’s exploits, they certainly have reason to believe.

This was the first championship meeting between the two since the 2008 All Ireland final when the Rebelette’s showed their experience for the big occasion in overpowering Galway. That was not be the case in Athenry on Saturday and, if anything, it was the direct opposite with Galway out muscling and out fighting their opponents. Galway’s desire to secure their place in the semi-final stages was typified by centre back Ann Marie Hayes who delivered a sterling performance by hooking, hassling, blocking and tormenting the Cork attack at every turn.

Equally influential was clubmate Brenda Hanney was a tower of strength when deployed to midfield in the second half. The Killimor stickwoman is beginning to rediscover her form of old and, no doubt, will play a central role in Galway’s bid for a final spot.

The midfield sector unquestionably proved Galway’s Achilles heel in last year’s championship, but this year’s new pairing of Emma Kilkelly and Orla Kilkenny continue to reach new heights in every game. On Saturday, they faced their toughest test to date in Cork’s Gemma O’Connor and Orla Cotter, arguably, two of the finest camogie players in the country, but the Galway duo won the tussle hands down.