All roads lead to Killimor on Sunday for the 2024 Minor A hurling Championship. A highly anticipated double header sees Oranmore Maree take on Kilconierion at 13.30 (1.30pm) followed by Athenry v Sarsfields, in the second semi at 15.00 (3pm).
Having gained promotion in the 2023 A1 final on a very memorable summers evening in Duggan Park, Ballinasloe, the squad have really pushed on this year in the higher division.
The championship format consists of twelve teams, divided into two groups of six. The top four teams in each group qualify for the quarter finals with the bottom two teams eliminated.
A home win against Ardrahan was followed by an away draw at Craughwell and a hard-fought win in Turloughmore, in very difficult weather conditions. The team concluded their group stage with impressive home wins over Sarsfields and neighbours Clarinbridge. This resulted in the team finishing as number one seed in their group and a home quarter final against Loughrea.
A good start with early goals from Michael Leahy and Cillian Costello set the team on their way and the match ended in a 3-14 to 1-11 win.
Strong performances in attack from Matthew Furey (0-5), Jack Cormican (0-7) and Gus Lohan were complimented by a rear guard led by Fionn Fahy at 6, Sean Martin at 3 and our wing backs Barry Keating and Ryan Clery. Dylan Melia capped a fine performance in goals with a 0-1 point free from his own 45 meter line and was ably assisted by his cousin Tiernan Grealish and Noah Carroll.
Our midfielders also put in a strong shift with Shay Rabbitte and Ryan Holland leading the way. Notable contributions also from Steven Caulfield, Dara Mill and Jack Akman.
Another huge challenge awaits against a highly fancied Kilconierion who have been at the top of this grade at all age groups.
It would be remiss not to mention some people who have helped us on our way. Thank you to the Brian and all the Management at the Oranmore Lodge Hotel for access to their meeting rooms and swimming pool/leisure centre. Thank you also to our sponsors who provide refreshments after our training sessions and for the new jerseys, togs and socks. Thanks also to the Hurling academy (Tom Turley and team), the Camogie Academy and other squads who worked so well together in managing pitch times for matches and training. It is really appreciated.
A shout out also to the Oranmore Pitch Committee and Eoin Maguire at MCDA for having the pitches and facilities in such great condition.
Most importantly thanks also to the parents and the supporters who turn up at each game and are so vocal during the games. It doesn’t go unnoticed and appreciated by the group.
Brooks Minor A (U17A) Hurling Championship Knockout Semi-Final Oranmore Maree v Kilconieron at 13.30 (1.30pm) (E.T. if Necessary) Fixture Notes: Winner on the Day following Extra Time. Referee: Ger O Connor, Linesman: Shane Briscoe, Linesman: John Mullane
