to a five point winning margin over arch rivals Raharney in a well contested county final in Cusack Park last Sunday. This win sees them collect back-to-back titles and their 13th title in total. It also ends their Raharney hoodoo having lost to their familiar opponents in 2008 and 2010.
A Brian Connaughton goal from a 20-metre free after 19 minutes gave Raharney a 1-3 to 0-5 lead but Cathal Scally replied with a similar score five minutes later to give the champions the edge at the break.
It was nip and tuck in the third quarter with the sides level at the three-quarter mark. The pendulum swung firmly in Clonkill’s favour in the 53rd minute when Alan Dowdall somewhat fortuitously found the net to give his side some breathing space. Further points put the outcome beyond doubt though a late goal with the last puck of the game reduced the margin to five points.
Clonkill are entitled to savour this victory but will be determined to give a good account of themselves in the upcoming Leinster club championship.
