Carrickmore Into Senior Hurling Championship Final

Saturday 13.08.2011

Club

Reigning Tyrone Senior Hurling champions Carrickmore booked their place in yet another Benburb Cup decider with a comfortable semi final victory over Strabane at Killyclogher on Saturday evening, 1-21 to 0-9 the final score line.

The Eire Og’s set the tone for a commanding display inside the opening minute, when Aidan Kelly blasted over a free and, by the break, they were well on their way to victory as Kelly, Conor Grogan and, Justin Kelly, who provided a succession of points from play and frees established a 0-13 to 0-2 lead. The Shamrock’s points coming via the hurls of Malachy Quigg and a quality effort from Peter O’Connor.

Strabane staged a rousing revival in the opening minutes of the second period as Gerard Gilmore, substitute Jamie O’Reilly and Gary McGettigan landed points as they closed the gap, 14-6. Carrickmore’s work rate dropped alarmingly during the third quarter, but with SP Begley, Martin Grogan and Tony Hughes forming a commanding half back line formation, Carmen regained control with the artistry of the two Kelly’s Aidan and Justin quelling the Shamrock’s revival before a fortuitous John Kerr goal put the gloss on a flattering winning margin.

Carrickmore worthy winners but manager John Crossey and company will know they need a better performance when they meet either Dungannon Eoghain Ruadh or Naomh Colum Cille in the final next month.