The Kildorrery U14 B hurlers took the North Cork hurling shield when they defeated Kilworth at a well prepared Castletownroche pitch on August 17, 1995.
Here we look back at how the game unfolded from the Kildorrery perspective, taken from The Avondhu Archives.
This final was contested by two very evenly matched teams and so it proved to be a tense, nail-biting encounter. Kilworth opened the scoring with a well-taken goal in the 4th minute but the in-form Stephen Coughlan immediately replied with points in the 5th and 6th minutes.
Both teams fought for possession and dominance for the next 10 minutes but neither could break through the other’s defence until the 18th minute when the determined Joanne Hennessy sent over a well taken point to level the game. This proved to be the final score before half-time, Kildorrery 0-3 Kilworth 1-0.
Some changes by the Kildorrery selectors at half-time gave their side the edge. Joanne Hennessy was brought out centre forward while Tom Whelan moved in full forward. This was a move that suited both players even though Kilworth once again opened the scoring with a goal in the 7th minute.
Nevertheless Kildorrery enjoyed the lion’s share of possession in this half. Eamonn O’Connor quickly put his side ahead having scored 1-1 in the first 10 minutes and got their insurance point in the 22nd minute.
Kilworth piled on the pressure in the last quarter and caused the spectators many anxious moments, particularly when they pointed with 4 minutes to go.
However, Kildorrery withstood the onslaught to run out champions by the narrowest of margins, Kildorrery 1-5 Kilworth 2-1.
Outstanding individual performances
Adrian McEniry in goals inspired confidence throughout, making many tremendous saves and clearances on the night. The fullback line of Gillian O’Brien, Frank Lillis and Tadhg Coffey – having improved with every match – were rock solid in defence, fighting tenaciously for every ball and determinedly clearing their lines.
At centre back Stephen Coughlan gave an awe inspiring performance with his long clearances and accurate striking. He was ably assisted by the two wingbacks Denis O’Keeffe and Sean Coughlan, both of whom are full of spirit and who can always be relied on to give more than 100% commitment.
At centrefield William Lee, who played a captain’s part on the night, with the skilful Eamonn O’Connor fought gamely for possession and ensured a good supply of ball to the forwards.
The half forward line with Tom Whelan in the centre, flanked by Melissa Norris and Padraig Hanley were instrumental in setting up quite a number of attacks and must have been a thorn in the side of the Kilworth defence.
Finally, we come to the full forward line of Joanne Hennessy, Brian Lee and Ciaran O’Connor. This trio showed great character and contributed in no small way to their team’s victory.
John McHugh presented the trophy to the delighted and worthy captain, William Lee. William in his speech thanked his team-mates for the outstanding effort made by them.
He also thanked the trainers and mentors, Paddy Hanley, Kieran O’Connor and Fr Stritch, for all the time and energy given over to their charges. Last, but not least, he called for three cheers for a very sporting Kilworth team.
Team: A McEvoy, T Coffey, F Lillis, G O’Brien, D O’Keeffe, Stephen Coughlan (0-2), Sean Coughlan, E O’Connor (1-2), W Lee, I Hanley, T Whelan, M Norris, C O’Connor, J Hennessy (0-1) and B Lee. Subs: A Roche, L Kelly, R O’Connor and TJ O’Dwyer.
