Clonmore Juniors found themselves 1-2 down after 3 minutes (the goal coming from a harsh penalty), lost Mick Smith to a red card on 20 minutes and were behind by 1-8 to 1-4 at half-time. But they put in a huge performance of grit and determination in the second half to grind out a well deserved win.
Again this week, PJ Byrne kick-started us into life with a fortuitous goal, this time a high ball deceiving the keeper and ending up in the net. PJ followed up with a superb '45' and added another vital point in the second half. Playing as a two man full forward line, PJ and Niall Humphries terrorised the Cocks backs with Niall also recording an excellent 1-3, including the injury time winner. Niall's goal was a real poacher's effort – he somehow managed to win a high ball while being marked by two backs and planted it in the bottom left hand corner.
Others to shine in a spirited team performance were Paddy Gahan, who made several lung bursting runs from centre-back and kicked two great points; Andrew Byrne, who quietened their dangerman Colm Quigley in the second half; Collie McGrath who stood up and was counted in the physical exchanges; wily old fox Paul Byrne who never wastes a ball and skillful youngster Adam Byrne who kicked points with right and left foot. This was indeed a refreshing victory against all the odds.
Next game for the Juniors is the Championship Quarter Final V Kilbride on Tuesday, 22 July, at 7.30pm in Tullow. Ref: Pat Kehoe.
TEAM: Paddy Byrne, Mark D Byrne, Pauric Lawlor, Ger Doyle, Paul Hogan, Mick Smith (red, 20mins), Andrew Byrne, Paddy Gahan (0-2), Willie Byrne, Adam Byrne (0-3), Collie McGrath, Paul Byrne, PJ Byrne (1-2, 1'45'), JP Doyle, Niall Humphries (1-3, 1f). Subs: Martin Doyle for Ger (HT), Gary Byrne for JP (55 mins), Sean Doyle for Paul Hogan (black card)(58 mins).
PHOTO: Collie McGrath was to the fore in the second half comeback against the Fighting Cocks, curtailing the dominance of towering midfielder Graham Whelan, and driving the team forward with his determined play.
