A local derby Roscommon SFC final which graced the Hyde Park swathe of green on Sunday afternoon saw Clann na Gael claim their second title in four years, dashing the three in a row aspirations of perennial rivals, St. Brigids, with a twelve point victory that appeared quite unlikely at half time when the victors held a mere two point lead.
In their first final meeting since 1997, the rivals served up an end to end contest with scores of the highest calibre interlinked with passages of fine interplay and fielding.
Fergal Shine's charges started in positive style with the roving Ciaran Lennon setting the tone when he netted just after the throw in. Although St. Brigids replied with a green flag almost immediately, the influential Senan Kilbride sublimely finishing, Clann never ceased with their attack minded play, Donie Shine punishing the vanquished from placed balls at every occasion.
As the All Ireland champions of 2013 sought to find their rhythm in the second half, the dismissal of Gearoid Cunniffe proved a turning point and Clann seized on their extra man opportunity with club stalwart Jonathan Dunning punching to the net and Cathal Callinan displaying his opportunism with a lobbed goal from distance.
Shine completed the goal rout in injury time from the penalty spot, a score that saw him attain Roscommon SFC top scorer status.
As celebrations continue in Drum and Clonown this week, Clann will be mindful of making an imprint in the Connacht club championship with a quarter final fixture against the London champions in the Hyde Park imminent.
