White’s Cross GAA fell to a 0-19 to 0-13 defeat against Nemo Rangers in a competitive Junior A Hurling League encounter, where a strong start and consistent free-taking proved decisive for the visitors.
Nemo Rangers opened the game with real intent, registering two early points inside the opening two minutes and adding a third from a free shortly after. White’s Cross struggled to settle initially but responded well, with points from play and a free by their accurate forward line helping to steady the contest. Scores from play by Eddie Coughlan and Conor Buckley, along with a series of well-worked attacks, brought White’s Cross back into contention midway through the half.
Despite this improvement, Nemo maintained their edge, particularly through placed balls, converting a number of frees to keep the scoreboard ticking. White’s Cross showed good determination, with further scores from Buckley and Coughlan narrowing the gap. However, missed chances and some conceded frees allowed Nemo to carry a 0-12 to 0-10 lead into the break.
The second half began brightly for White’s Cross, with Dan Kelleher pointing early to reduce the deficit to a single point. Momentum, however, shifted again as Nemo capitalised on frees and turnovers, extending their advantage. White’s Cross continued to battle, with Coughlan adding further scores, but discipline issues and wides at key moments hindered their comeback.
Substitutions introduced fresh energy, and the home side created opportunities late on, but could not convert enough of them to close the gap. Nemo’s efficiency, particularly from placed balls, ensured they kept control in the closing stages.
TEAM
1 – Shane Cahill
2 – Chris Dunne
3 – Aidan Docherty
4 – Senan Ryan
5 – Ronan Quain
6 – Ruairi Quinlan
7 – PJ O’Donovan
8 – Conor Buckley
9 – Aidan O’Neill
10 – Cathal Quinlan
11 – Dan Kelleher
12 – John McElhinney
13 – Ronan Healy
14 – Eddie Coughlan
15 – Stephen Whooley
SUBS:
Conor Docherty, Patrick Harrington, Sean Delaney, Seamus Quinlan