Champions on the Double!!

Patrickswell N.S. 3-7
Milford N.S.        0-2
Congratulations to Mr. Bulfin and his team of warriors who won the City Under 11 A Hurling title today, in scorching sunshine in St. Patrick's GAA field.  In last month's league match between the same two sides, Milford NS won by 25 points, so there was very good reason to expect them to carry on in today's final from where they left off last time around.
Patrickswell NS hadn't read the script, however, and from the throw in they got stuck in, challenged for every ball, turned lost causes into successes and ran their hearts out in their efforts to do themselves justice--and do their school proud.
The Well started brightly with a point from play and a point from a free by Patrick Kirby (captain). The captain led by example from midfield. He was an excellent outlet for goalkeeper Nathan Conway's clever puck-outs and gave a great display of man-markng when it was necessary to do so. He finished as the day's top scorer with 2 goals and five points. Both goals were quality strikes which came at the end of incisive runs through the MIlford defence.
Niall Kerins gave a swashbuckling performance in midfield and took on the job of marking Milford's strongest player with gusto. The fact that he dominated his man from start to finish and moved a lot of ball forward in the process was critical to the team's overall success.
In defence the Gormans--Jack and Cian--were outstanding. Jack's powerful clearances and Cian's solo runs relieved pressure time after time. Conor Chu looked after his corner in a very unfussy manner and put his body on the line on more than one occasion. Wing back Eoin Harmon was another who caught the eye, both for his silky skills and the vital clearances he made when the Well were under severe pressure. Full back, Josh Carey gave a great performance in the anchor position. His clever reading of the game rescued his teammates on more than one occasion.
Patrick Kiely gave a solid display in midfield, as did half forwards, Jake Carey, John Kirby and Evan Munnelly. John Kirby scored 2 super points for his side and was the only player from 3rd Class to play (and score) on both the Under 11 A and Olo Cup finals. Paul Lynch, Jamie Byrnes and Adam McNamara and super-sub Jack McNamara in the full forward line were diligent in their duties throughout and caused plenty of problems for their opposite numbers.
The result was some turnaround in the space of a few short weeks! The boys in blue and gold played with heart and discipline throughout. They hurled with passion and their manager, Mr. Bufin, coach, Gary Kirby and special hurling consultant, Sam Bulfin were very proud of them indeed! Their parents, teachers and supporters were thrilled with their performance too.
And, there was no doubt about it, the best team won on the day. Come on the 'Well!!!

Team: 1. Nathan Conway 2. Conor Chu 3. Josh carey 4. Jack Gorman 5. Cian Gorman 6. Patrick Kiely 7. Eoin Harmon 8. Patrick Kiely 9. Niall Kerins 10. Jake Carey 11. John Kirby 12. Evan Munnelly 13. Paul Lynch 14. Jamie Byrnes 15. Adam McNamara 16. Jack McNamara 17. Sean Fitzgerald

Scorers: P. Kirby (2-5), J. Byrnes (1-0), J. Kirby (0-2)