Since winning the Intermediate Semi-Final with a fantastic come-back against Southern rivals Glenmore, all eyes were on the final where St. Patrick’s awaited. With considerable big day experience, Ballyragget were always going to be favourites but Graigue Ballycallan went into the final full of enthusiasm and courage.
Indeed the local boys had the better start and really had their opponents on the back foot for the most of the first half. GBC were 1-3 to 0-1 ahead in the 12th minute and a shock looked on the cards. However, St. Patrick’s hit back with 1-2 during the first two minutes of the second half and from then on GBC were playing catch up. But when GBC got in for a goal in the 45th minute a shock still looked on the cards but a more experienced Ballyragget pushed on and ran out deserved winners in the end.
Scores: Sean Ryan 1-7, Billy Ryan 1-0, Bob Murphy, Colum Prendiville, Eddie Brennan 0-1 each.
Final Score: Graigue Ballycallan 2-10 St. Patrick’s 1-19
Great praise must go the players and mentors for giving us such a brilliant year. The team is very young, with the majority having never played on such a big stage. This experience will undoubtedly stand to them in the future and we all look forward to 2018 with confidence.
