Millstreet savoured the taste of victory in the Co. non exam minor hurling league 12 aside final by overcoming Courcey Rovers 2-10 to 1-6 played in Ovens. The contest was delayed 15 minutes owing to rain sheeting down on the proceedings. Despite the slippery conditions, there could be no disguise the superiority of Millstreet.
All through, Millstreet hurled with the greater confidence and that was good enough to keep the Carrigdhoun side at bay. Owing to the conditions, scoring was at a premium early on and the prematch cloudburst ensured the early exchanges were bereft of free flowing hurling.
However Millstreet’s cause was boosted in the 9th min on a probing delivery by Michael Vaughan saw Michael Murphy get a stick to flick to the Courceys net.
A follow up point from Barry O’Reilly confirmed Millstreet’s stature. Courceys did open their account yet all the initiative stemmed and drive stemmed from Millstreet. They kept a foothold on the game thanks to the tenacious play of Dean Desmond, Tim Fitzgerald, Mark Ellis, Michael Vaughan and Darren Sheehan.
Two points in quick succession to Vaughan confirmed Millstreet’s supremacy yet they were jolted on a Courceys goal. However, Millstreet bounced back immediately and though Michael Vaughan was denied of a possible goal, Michael Murphy was on hand to steer the rebound home.
ourceys did answer to narrow the arrears 2-3 to 1-3 at the break.
Millstreet took up the running upon the resumption on quick fire points by Michael Murphy and Darren Sheehan.
Courceys attempted a comeback yet all they could show to their interval tally was three pointed frees. Territorially, Millstreet dominated and though some wayward shooting limited progress, their persistence paid off with points from Michael Vaughan, Darren Sheehan and David McCaul.
Millstreet lined out as Pa Rohan, Jamie Kelleher, Dean Desmond, Tim Fitzgerald, Mark Ellis, Liam Curtin, David McCaul, Barry O’Reilly, Michael Vaughan, Darren Sheehan, John Buckley, Michael Murphy. Sub. Tony Cronin.
