Heartbreak again for Athenry Camogie Club. For the second time in three years Tipperary’s Cashel proved a hard rock to move.
In Sunday’s All Ireland Senior Club Championship, played in atrocious weather at Clarecastle, Cashel edged the decider by just two points to secure their second All Ireland title.
Two years ago the Tipperary and Munster champions Cashel claimed their first crown at Galway’s expense, courtesy of an eight-point haul from All Star Claire Grogan. And on Sunday Grogan was again instrumental in securing victory for her side, contributing seven points, four of which were from play, while Cashel captain and full back Una O'Dwyer marshalled a trojan defensive effort.
Athough Galway enjoyed the elements in the first half, it did not stop Cashel from scoring.
Athenry led by just one 0-3 to 0-2 after 15 minutes despite creating two clear-cut goal chances which, if converted, would surely have turned the game.
As it was points from free-taker Laura Linnane and Noreen Coen were cancelled by Grogan and Alison Lonergan before the break, and the 0 - 6 to 0 - 5 advantage was simply not enough in a second half with Cashel playing with the deteriorating weather at their backs.
Cashel edged ahead by 0-9 to 0-7 and when Athenry introduced the injured Jessica Gill for inspiration, last year’s top scorer came close with a goal shot. However in the end, despite Athenry's brave effort, two Grogan points sealed the contest for the Tipperary side.
While Athenry relied too much on skipper Therese Maher, Cashel had a host of stars, particularly in their half back line.
