Kilkenny Rivercourt Hotel Junior D Summer League Final
John Lockes 3-5 Barrow Rangers 1-10
A fantastic Junior D Camogie League Final in Paulstown on Sunday morning lived up to all expectations as John Lockes edged Barrow Rangers by the narrowest of margins, 3-5 to 1-10, after a wonderfully entertaining contest between two exceptionally well-matched sides. Played in ideal conditions, the game showcased the very best of junior camogie, with skill, commitment and determination evident throughout. Supporters from both clubs were treated to an engrossing encounter that ebbed and flowed from the opening whistle right through to the dramatic finale, with never more than a puck of a ball separating the teams.
Barrow Rangers enjoyed a strong opening and carried a slender 1-5 to 2-1 lead into the interval, but the scoreboard only told part of the story. Every score seemed to be met with an immediate response as both teams matched each other for intensity and quality, ensuring that neither side could establish any meaningful advantage.
The second half followed a similar pattern, with the game continuing to swing from end to end. Outstanding defensive work, clever movement in attack and some excellent score-taking kept the attendance thoroughly entertained. Both sets of players left everything on the field, producing a free-flowing contest that showcased the skill and commitment of both sides.
As the clock ticked down, the outcome remained firmly in the melting pot. The sides continued to exchange scores and it seemed increasingly likely that extra time would be required to separate them. However, deep in added time, John Lockes were awarded a free near the sideline. Many expected Kilkenny U16 full-back Robyn Corcoran to step forward to take the free directly, but instead the John Lockes side produced a moment of ingenuity. A cleverly worked short free found Corcoran in space and she showed superb composure to split the posts, nudging John Lockes ahead and ultimately securing victory.
While the result went the way of the Callan outfit, Barrow Rangers can take enormous pride from their contribution to a memorable final. They matched their opponents throughout and played a huge role in producing such a high-quality spectacle. Their skill, resilience and determination ensured that the destination of the title remained uncertain until the very last play.John Lockes, meanwhile, will be delighted with the character they showed under pressure. In a game where every score mattered and every possession was fiercely contested, they found a way to deliver when it counted most and were rewarded with league silverware. Perhaps most pleasing of all was the outstanding standard produced by the second teams of both clubs, underlining the depth of talent being developed by John Lockes and Barrow Rangers. The quality of camogie, the work rate and the commitment shown by all involved was a credit to the players, mentors and clubs.
Attention now turns to the championship, where both teams can look forward to with confidence. On the evidence of this outstanding final, Barrow Rangers should be firmly in the mix at Intermediate level, John Lockes will fancy their chances in the Junior Championship, while both clubs look well equipped to make a serious impact in the Junior D Cup. Both teams were a credit to their clubs throughout, displaying the skill, commitment and sportsmanship that made this such a memorable final.
John Lockes Scorers
Robyn Corcoran 1-01
Sal Ryan 2-01
Caoimhe Kelly 0-01
Ruth O Sullivan 0-01
Chloe O Donovan 0-01
Barrow Rangers Scorers
Kellie Murphy 1-4
Rhianna Scott 0-3
Nicola Davitt 0-1
Ada Bambrick 0-1
Rebecca Holden 0-1
Referee: Gay Rafter
By PRO Tue 4th Aug
