The under 16 footballers had a very impressive win after an epic struggle against a fine Shamrocks side in this championship semi-final. The standard of play in this game was of the highest order from both sides. The first was a nip and tuck affair with some outstanding scores on view. Daniel Kelleher scored a brilliant goal mid way through the half with a shot from distance that left the Shamrock’s keeper rooted to the spot. This put White’s Cross in to the lead for the first time. The Shanbally side replied almost immediately, however, with an almost identical goal. Conor Docherty, outstanding at midfield throughout, swung the game back in Na Gaeil’s favour when he buried a shot after a powerful run at the Shamrock’s defence. This gave his side a slender 2-07 to 2-06 lead at the half time break.

Na Gaeil had a powerful start to the second half as Cork under 16 footballer Docherty scored another goal to open up a four point lead for his side. This lead was short lived though as Shamrocks powered their way back into the game and dominated the next 15 minutes where they scored two goals of their own in this period. It was back to the walls stuff for the eventual winners at this stage who, though having some goals chances of their own, managed to stay in touch through points from Adrian Buckley (who finished with five points in total) and Conor Docherty. The turning point of the game came with 8 minutes to go. An excellent team move involving several players was finished with aplomb by substitute Robert Docherty. This was a goal worthy of winning any game and so it proved. Shamrocks rallied and tried to force an equlaizing goal but were repelled by excellent defensive work by Senan Ryan who had a great game at corner back all though and Sean Twomey. Na Gaeil held on then for a well deserved three point win and now have a final to look forward to.