St. Colmcille’s Under 12 hurlers made their Premier 2 League debut on Sunday afternoon in Carraig na bhFear, welcoming Kildorrery in sweltering midday conditions. Playing their first ever game at this level, there were understandably a few nerves among the home side, but despite eventually going down on a 2-4 to 1-10 scoreline, there was plenty to encourage the players and coaches as the season gets underway.
With the aid of a strong, warm breeze in the opening half, Colmcille’s made the brighter start on the scoreboard through two well-taken goals from RJ Whitley. However, the performance itself was understandably jittery as players adjusted to the pace and intensity of Premier 2 hurling. Kildorrery created several opportunities of their own, and it was thanks to a superb defensive display that Colmcille’s held a narrow 2-1 to 1-3 advantage at the break.
Ollie Roche was outstanding throughout at full back, producing a series of crucial interceptions and turnovers at key moments. He was brilliantly supported by Liam O’Donovan, while goalkeeper Cillian Buckley provided a reassuring presence between the posts. Their combined efforts ensured Colmcille’s reached half-time with their noses in front despite Kildorrery enjoying plenty of possession.
The visitors made better use of the stiff breeze after the restart and gradually took control. Outstanding centre-back Scott Coughlan repeatedly struck impressive long-range points, while Sean Og Farragher also played a leading role, finishing with three excellent points from play. Colmcille’s continued to battle bravely, with Darragh Quinlan, Michael Looney and Luke Hegarty all adding second-half scores, but the home side will also reflect on a couple of missed goal opportunities and two well-saved frees that might have changed the momentum.
Although disappointed to surrender their half-time lead, there were many positives for St. Colmcille’s to take from their first outing at this level. The work rate and determination never wavered, while the experience gained against quality opposition will stand to this team as the league progresses. and with several league games still to come, there will be plenty more opportunities to develop, improve and build confidence
St. Colmcille’s (13 a side)
1 – Cillian Buckley
2 – Ollie Roche
3 – Liam O’Donovan
5 – Fionn Casey
6 – Donncha Harte
7 – Ben O’Leary
8 – Zach Forde
9 – Michael Looney
10 – Luke Hegarty
11 – Darragh Quinlan
12 – Cayden Ramsey
13 – RJ Whitley
14 – Ben Kennefick
SUBS USED: Ollie Galvin, Harry O’Donovan, Isaac Duhig
Kildorrery (13 a side)
1 – Eoin O’Donnell
2 – James Drake
3 – Ellen Dunne
5 – James Dunne
6 – Jacob Greaves
7 – Scott Coughlan
8 – Reid Griffin
9 – Darragh Sheedy
10 – Sean Og Farragher
11 – Dee Coughlan
12 – Jonathan Greaves
13 – Daniel Ahern
14 – Cormac Finn