Congratulations to Castlelyons who took home the East Cork Division 3 Hurling League (Owenacurra Cup) on June 23rd.
Played in a very well turned out Youghal pitch with local referee Jim Daly in charge, Rovers had high hopes going into the game after an unbeaten league campaign. Down a few bodies due to injury and travel, Rovers had to go deep into the panel but ultimately no excuse can be made as Castlelyons produced a fine display of hurling and ran out convincing winners on a score line of 3-17 to 0-12.
Rovers did give as good as they got in the first half, with Cormac Aherne and Fintan Murray pointing from long range to keep in touch with Castlelyons. Some last ditch interceptions from Kevin Ivers and Anthony Archer just keeping Rovers in it. However it was only a matter of time that the silky full forward line of Castlelyons would do more severe damage, and produce a goal just before half time to lead by 5 at half time.
A signal of hope arrived early in the second when half time substitute Brian Daly was brought down for a penalty but unfortunately the goalkeeper was up to the task in stopping Cormac Aherne’s effort. Rovers kept fighting till the end despite suffering the concession of two more goals. Best on the day for Rovers were John Paul Ivers, Kevin Ivers, Fintan Murray and Shane O’Neill. It was also great to welcome David Whelehan back to the field after a long layoff due to injury.
Team: David Whelehan, Alan Lenihan, John Paul Ivers, Anthony Archer, Conor O’Brien, Kevin Ivers, Kieran Ivers, James Ahern, Shane O’Neill, Fintan Murray, Cormac Aherne, Eoin McGrath, Dan Ruddy, Kevin Roche, Donnacha O’Donovan. Subs: Brian Daly, Seamus Kearney
