Heartbreak for Derry

Defeat for Derry camogs

The Derry camogie team suffered a narrow defeat in the Semi-final of the Gala All Ireland Intermediate championship. They lost by 2-12 to 1-13 against last year’s Junior champions Offaly on Saturday.

Siobhan Flannery grabbed a goal to ensure that the ‘Faithful County’ held a comfortable 1-06 to 0-03 lead at half time with points from Grainne McGoldrick and Karen Kielt keeping the Oak Leaf side in contention.

Karen Kielt was on fine form from the placed ball. The young Kilrea star sending over four points to reduce the deficit and when Katie McAuley found the back of the net it seemed that Derry were mounting a comeback. However, Offaly attacker Elaine Dermody responded with a goal of her own and the same player could have killed the game off when Offaly were rewarded a penalty after Arlene Watkins was fouled in the box. The combination of Aileen McCusker, Katrina O’Kane and ‘keeper Claire O’Kane kept the ball out for Derry and Meabh McGoldrick sent over two fine points to cap a great game for the young left-half back, it was too little too late as Elaine Dermody pointed at the end to put two between the sides.

Manager Barney McGrellis from Dungiven praised the players for their effort and felt that they can go even better next year, saying: “”We’re all bitterly disappointed with the result; the girls fought back well and were back in it but unfortunately we ran out of time. I have no doubt whatsoever that the girls will bounce back next year and hopefully go one better. It was a great game and we wish Offaly well in the Final they are a good side with some great players.””

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