Not many could have seen this result coming. Kinnegad made it to the semi-final stage last year, and under Colm Coyle it was hoped they might push on and challenge for silverware this year.
St Malachy’s were tipped by many to end up in relegation trouble. They have been in this situation before of course but have an admirable knack of survival.
Kinnegad beat Athlone in the group stages and on the day I was impressed with them. They did part with Colm Coyle mid season and Jack Cooney took the reins. Jack is an experienced and respected campaigner and I thought his presence would be enough to keep them safe.
Credit to St Malachy’s for yet again confounding their critics. They dug deep following the dismissal of Tommy Carey early in the second half and a Sean Whealan goal in the 48th minute followed by a succession of late Alan Mangan frees were enough to condemn Kinnegad to intermediate football for 2011.
