White’s Cross suffered their first defeat of the season on Thursday evening, going down to a clinical Ballyphehane side at home despite a positive start. Having won their opening four games, the result brings an end to an otherwise strong early campaign.
The hosts opened brightly, with Eddie Coughlan pointing inside two minutes to settle the side. However, Ballyphehane responded ruthlessly, striking for two early goals – including one from a penalty – to seize control of the contest. Despite this setback, White’s Cross showed resilience. Points from Coughlan, Conor Buckley and John McElhinney kept them in touch, while Sean Delaney’s well-taken goal midway through the half reignited hopes.
At the break, White’s Cross trailed 1-06 to 3-03, still very much within striking distance. However, Ballyphehane’s attacking efficiency proved decisive after the restart. A fourth goal early in the second half stretched their lead, and although Buckley added a point, White’s Cross struggled to contain the visitors’ pace and movement.
Further goals from Ballyphehane put the game beyond reach, despite some determined efforts and multiple saves from the White’s Cross defence. Late points from McElhinney were scant consolation as the visitors closed out a comprehensive win.
While the scoreline was disappointing, there were positive passages throughout, and White’s Cross will look to regroup quickly and return to winning ways in their next outing.
Team
1 – Rory Teehan
2 – Senan Ryan
3 – Barry Prendergast
4 – Mark O’ Keeffe
5 – Aidan Docherty
6 – Ruairi Quinlan
7 – Seamus Quinlan
8 – Eddie Coughlan
9 – Bobby O’Riordan
10 – Cathal Quinlan
11 – Stephen Whooley
12 – Conor Docherty
13 – Conor Buckley
14 – Sean Delaney
15 – John McElhinney
SUBS: PJ O’Donovan, Murt Kelleher