St Colm’s take Division 2 Title

Ulster Hurling League Div 2 Final:
St. Colm’s Ballinascreen 1-13  Shane O’Neills Glenarm 1 -11

This was a highly entertaining game played in excellent conditions at Rasharkin and in a good sporting manner.

The result was in doubt right up until the final whistle which added to the excitement of the game.

Shane O’Neills started best taking a two point lead after five minutes. Then followed a 15 minute dominance from Ballinascreen, recording seven points without reply.

The final ten minutes of the first half saw Shane O’Neills add five points to their tally with St. Colm’s adding the final score of the half.

The third quarter belonged to Ballinascreen and during this time their best forward, Aaron Kelly, scored the goal that seemed likely to secure league honours for the Derry side.

Shane O’Neills excellent resistance in the final quarter made the game worthy of a final, and in particular Liam McDerrmot at centre half back made a telling contribution in this period.

A goal from Antrim county player Darren Hamill ensured a grandstand finish, while stout defending from the Ballinascreen full back Ray O’Hagan was making life difficult for the opposing forwards.

With Shane O’Neills trailing by one point in the final minute, goal scorer Hamill saw his penalty strike rebound off the post much to the relief of the Ballinascreen support.

An insurance point from Aaron Kelly on the final whistle saw the Ulster Club Hurling League Division 2 trophy go to St. Colm’s.

Referee: Terry O’Reilly. (Gort na Mona)