White’s Cross earned a hard-fought and deserved draw against reigning city champions Whitechurch in an entertaining Junior Hurling clash played away on March 22nd, finishing level at 1-17 apiece.
The visitors made a determined start and struck a crucial early blow when Daniel Kelleher netted after 8 minutes. Despite a couple of early missed frees, White’s Cross settled well, with Eddie Coughlan finding his range to add a series of points from placed balls and play. The defence also stood firm, highlighted by an important save from Shane Cahill, helping the visitors to a 1-7 to 0-7 lead at half time.
Whitechurch came out strongly after the break, registering four quick points to turn the momentum. A second-half goal further boosted the home side, putting White’s Cross under real pressure. However, the visitors showed great resilience and composure.
Coughlan was outstanding throughout, finishing with an impressive tally, particularly from frees, as White’s Cross chipped away at the deficit. Key scores in the final quarter, including late points from play, ensured the sides were level heading into the closing moments.
In the end, White’s Cross will take great encouragement from a battling performance that saw them match the champions score for score and secure a valuable draw on the road.
TEAM
1 – Shane Cahill
2 – Chris Dunne
3 – Seamus Quinlan
4 – Sean Delaney
5 – Gearoid Fleming
6 – Ruairi Quinlan
7 – Ronan Quaine
8 – Conor Buckley
9 – Aidan O’Neill
10 – Donncha Murnane
11 – Michael Goggin
12 – Daniel Kelleher
13 – Brendan Quain
14 – Eddie Coughlan
15 – Seamus Reid