Thurles Sarsfields kicked off the FBD Insurance County Premier Intermediate Hurling Championship with a thrilling win over their rivals, Eire Og Annacarty. The match, held at the Dillon Quirke GAA Grounds in Clonoulty, saw Sarsfields make an explosive start to the second half, scoring 2-2 within the first four minutes. This incredible burst of scoring paved the way for their eventual three-point victory.
Heading into half-time, trailing by a goal despite having the wind at their backs, Sarsfields faced a challenging task in the second half. However, they quickly turned the tide in their favor. Eire Og had the chance to extend their lead when they were awarded a penalty in the ninth minute, but Darragh Mooney’s shot missed the target, allowing Sarsfields to breathe a sigh of relief.
The second half started with a bang as Jack Lanigan found the back of the net just thirty seconds after the whistle, thanks to a pass from Harry Fitzgibbon. Fitzgibbon himself later added a goal to his name, effortlessly weaving through the Eire Og defense. With these two goals, Sarsfields gained a comfortable cushion that they maintained until the final whistle.
During the first half, Sarsfields had the advantage of playing with the wind, and they wasted no time getting on the scoreboard. Fitzgibbon opened the scoring just twelve seconds into the game, but Eire Og responded quickly with a placed ball converted by Seanie Ryan. Eire Og then added three unanswered points to take a 0-6 to 0-2 lead within the first six minutes.
Sarsfields managed to narrow the gap, and a goal from Brian Fox, assisted by Paul Devlin’s delivery, put them within touching distance. The teams traded scores, and as the half drew to a close, the scoreboard read 1-11 to 0-11 in favor of Eire Og, who still had the wind advantage in the second half.
However, Sarsfields wasted no time in leveling the game after the break. Lanigan, assisted by Fitzgibbon, scored from outside the small square, bringing the sides level. Sarsfields then took control, with Mossy McCormack and Rory Purcell scoring two quick points to put them two ahead.
As the clock ticked down, Fitzgibbon produced a brilliant solo effort, breaking through Eire Og’s defense and planting a shot past Mooney. Although Eire Og’s Seanie Ryan managed to keep his side in the game with accurate placed balls, Liam McCormack contributed two crucial points for Sarsfields. Despite Eire Og’s best efforts, Sarsfields maintained their three-point lead, ultimately emerging as the victors with a scoreline of 2-16 to 1-16.
Thurles Sarsfields showcased their explosive attacking power and resilience in their opening match of the FBD Insurance County Premier Intermediate Hurling Championship. The early blitz in the second half set the tone for an exhilarating encounter, highlighting the skill and determination of both teams. It was a well-deserved win for Sarsfields, who now have their sights set on further success in the championship.
