Despite never reaching the same level of performance as their semi-final exploits, reigning Connacht club champions St Brigid’s retained their Roscommon crown to complete a hat-trick of titles in a wintery Kiltoom last Sunday. This was a real David and Goliath contest with the aristocrats from Kiltoom defending their title against a team that were plying their trade in the intermediate ranks just 12 short months ago.
Some bookmakers were offering the underdogs eight points in the handicap. Yet the Woodmount oufit gave as good as they got against an out of sorts home side who needed a second major from the ever-reliable Frankie Dolan in injury time to put the outcome beyond doubt.
Damien Kellegher foiled what looked a certain Pearses’ goal after 25 minutes and his side entered the break 1-4 to 0-3 to the good. At that stage many in the sizable crowd would have expected The Saints to kick on and dominate the second half. They failed to ignite however though the stubborn resistance offered by Pearses undoubtedly played its part.
Pearses’ Achilles heel was their inability to put scores on the board though the introduction of Seanie Fahy did have the desired effect as he helped himself to four points.
Frankie Dolan marked his return from suspension with a haul of 2-4 in a man of the match display. Sennan Kilbride was double marked and never got to do the damage he’s capable of.
Pearses will rue their inability to turn possession into scores but when the dust settles can be proud of their efforts this year. With plenty of good young talent in their ranks they have every reason to be optimistic about their fortunes for the coming years.
Now that the JJ Fahy Cup is staying put for another year, Kevin McStay will be hoping that his side can retain their Connacht title. Cathal McHugh will be hoping to be back in the fold before they begin the defence of their provincial crown. However the team will be under no illusions about to need for improvement if they are to lift further silverware this year.
