Talented u16s continue great run for Galway ladies football

Galway 3-15

Cork 2-11

GALWAY’S remarkable ladies football season achieved another landmark last Wednesday evening when they were crowned All-Ireland under 16 champions for the third time.

Two first half Ailish Morrissey goals and a second half strike from Aoife Lynagh gave Kieran Collins’ team victory adding to the under 14s’ triumph just three weeks earlier.

Indeed, if Galway defeat the Rebelettes in the minor final on August Bank Holiday Monday, they will become the first county to complete an underage triple crown. Add the under 14 blitz prize already secured, and the maroon and white are on the verge of an unprecedented grand slam.

For this squad, it was finally tears of joy after the cruel manner their All-Ireland dreams were denied two years ago  After defeating Cavan in the 2015 under 14 semi-final, a registration issue saw their national final appearance taken away as the Breffni girls went on to lift the trophy.

All season, they played with intent scoring 46 goals in their six games. And even if only three goals were added in their final assignment, they came at crucial times to ensure their first title since 2012.

While conditions were superb in McDonagh Park, the setting sun and blustery wind were against Galway in the first half but they still took the early initiative.

Lynagh opened the scoring on two minutes before Morrissey’s first effort was deflected over the bar by keeper Sarah Murphy. The Cork netminder was the Munster champions’ top player producing at least five saves but Galway’s number one equally had to be alert.

On three minutes, Cork’s first chance allowed Aoife Twomey a goal scoring opportunity only for Karen Connolly to show bravery with her stop. Katie Quirke converted Cork’s opening free 60 seconds later but that was the closest Linda Barry’s team came.

For  more, read this week’s Connacht Tribune.