Granagh/Ballingarry face Killeedy in the Limerick senior county final

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Granagh/Ballingarry were not so long ago the linchpins of club camogie in Limerick – winning an incredible 10 senior county titles over an eleven-year span between 1996 and 2006. They were All Ireland club champions in 1998, 1999 and 2003, so it is a bit surprising when you hear them described as the underdog going into Sunday’s Limerick senior county final against three-in-a-row seekers Killeedy (at Ballyagran 2.45pm).

Most camogie enthusiasts will be delighted to hear that Vera Sheehan has made her long-awaited comeback to the black and white jersey following a lengthy lay-off to injury. Along with her sister Aoifa and Eileen O’Brien, they are just some of the names that have been part and parcel of the Granagh/Ballingarry success stories down through the glory years.

Aoifa, a well-known sports journalist, is still only 25, but has been wearing the county jersey for almost 10 years. She says because Granagh/Ballingarry have been out of the limelight and are more battle-hardened, they are capable of upsetting the holders.

“”Killeedy are favourites going for three-in-a-row. They have been the form team during the past few years. But, we have won nothing since 2006 so that is incentive in itself. A lot of people think we are an old team but Vera (30) is the eldest. We beat them in the league but as we all know that doesn’t matter when you are in the heat of a county final””

Following battles with Newcastle West, Ballyagran and Ahane, manager Eddie O’Brien who is a brother of Eileen, can call on players who already have experienced the winning feeling – Vera and Aoifa Sheehan, Eileen O’Brien, Joanne Clifford, Meadhbh Nash and Captain Fiona Morrissey.

However, while Granagh/Ballingarry are seeking their seventh title of the decade, Killeedy are bidding to hold on to the trophy, so this has the makings of a great final. Deirdre Fitzpatrick, Michelle Casey and Dympna O’Brien are impressive performers. Killeedy were forced to overcome a strong Ballyagran challenge in the semi-final and with two of their panel – Caroline and Lisa Scanlon – already having claimed All Ireland minor B glory with the county, they will desperately want to spark the celebrations once again.

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