Report by Philomena Brennan
The first round of the Intermediate Hurling League took place in Tullaroan on Saturday 22d April last. Graigue-Ballycallan’s opponents were the Fenians of Johnstown who had been relegated from the senior ranks late last year. Darragh Egan, team captain, led a team which included three from the club’s minor ranks who were making their debut. The first half was a tough encounter with both teams prone to some errors. However, GBC had the better of the exchanges and while only taking a one point lead into half-time, the fact that the majority of their tally was from play, hopes were high for a good second half. HT Score: GBC 0-7 Fenians 0-6.
GBC did not disappoint in the first ten minutes of the second half and while conceding a quick goal from the Fenians they replied with an excellant goal from Sean O’Dwyer to take a one-point lead. Failure to capitalise on this score, coupled with some unfortunate errors resulted in their opponents getting the upper-hand. Fenians senior experience came to the fore and they eventually took the spoils.
Final Score: GBC 1-10 Fenians 2-13
While understandably disappointed with this defeat, consolation was taken from the team’s eager performance, especially from the younger players and we all look forward to their next match which will be against Glenmore in Piltown on Friday May 5th.
Scores for GBC: S. O’Dwyer 1-3, B. Ryan 0-3, C. Prendiville, W. O’Connor, S.Ryan and J.Roberts 0-1 each.
GBC Team: C. Hoyne, D. Egan (C), G. Teehan, T. Ronan, S. Butler, J. Ryall, R. Keoghan, B. Ryan, P. Cahill, W. O’Connor, C. Prendiville, V. Teehan, J. Roberts, S. O’Dwyer, S. Ryan. Subs Used; T. Dunphy.