Westmeath hurlers have plenty to feel proud about this week having captured their third Christy Ring Cup, this time at the expense of a luckless Kerry. While winning this second tier competition is in itself something to celebrate the main prize on offer is a three year ticket to compete for the Liam McCarthy.
Kevin Martin’s men trailed by two points, 0-12 to 1-7, at the break, the goal coming from the stick of Dan Carty. Paul Greville grabbed the Lake County’s second goal five minutes after the break to bring the sides level.
Westmeath edged themselves four points in front with a quarter of an hour remaining. Yet with so much at stake John Meyler’s men were not going to lie down easily. Substitute Shane Brick found the net from a free and Michael Boyle soon followed up with an equalizing point.
Kerry were unlucky to have a goal disallowed for a square ball offence but with two minutes remaining they did edge a point in front. Brendan Murtagh then equalised with a free .
With time almost up Westmeath substitute Andrew Dermody broke Kerry hearts with a late, late winner. The final whistle sounded from the puck out.
While all concerned can rightly feel proud of their achievement this year they can also look forward to next year’s participation in the Liam McCarthy competition.
