Tyrone Ladies Come Up Just Short

Sunday 07.04.2024

County

LIDL Ladies National Football League Division 2 Final
Kildare 2-9 Tyrone 0-12

Tyrone ladies senior team produced a very committed and mature display against Kildare in the Lidl Division Two National League final before losing out narrowly 2-9 to 0-12. While team manager Sean O Kane was disappointed with the defeat he was very proud of the efforts of his team.

Many expected hot favourites Kildare to win comfortably but this was a close game right up to the final whistle as Tyrone showed considerable grit and determination and refused to let Kildare get away from them. Indeed, in spite of playing against a very strong wind, it was Tyrone who controlled most of the first half possession and the Red Hands will probably look back on several wasted chances during the opening period that could have made a huge difference.

Full forward Roisin Byrne opened the Kildare account after two minutes but a fine brace of points from the very impressive Emma Conroy steadied any Tyrone nerves. Kildare pushed forward using the wind to their advantage as they added a goal from Claire Sullivan and another Roisin Byrne point to lead 1-3 to 0-2.

Tyrone refused to panic and with Emma Jane Gervin and Meabh Corrigan leading the way they added points from Maria Canavan (3) and Sasha Byrne to level the scores with six minutes of the first half remaining. Tyrone looked to be in a great position as their hard work had not only brought them level but had Kildare chasing shadows at times.

Unfortunately a defensive mistake presented Roisin Byrne with a goal chance and the talented full forward made no mistake. The same player added a further point which was followed up by Kildare’s second three pointer from the industrious Neasa Dooley. That goal came just before half time and helped send her team in at the break leading 2-4 to 0-6.

Both teams slugged it out during the second half with Kildare’s greater experience, physicality and pace ultimately making the difference. Tyrone opened the second half scoring with points from Maria Canavan and Aoibhinn Mc Hugh before Trina Duggan pointed for Kildare to make it a three point game again.

Canavan and Kildare substitute Lara Curran swapped scores as Tyrone sought to reduce the deficit. Unfortunately for Tyrone they could not close the gap sufficiently and in spite of the best efforts of Canavan and her colleagues a Roisin Byrne inspired Kildare deservedly held on for the win.

For team manager Sean O Kane and his players attention will now turn to the championship with the hope that the experience gained from the league campaign can prove beneficial.