Nearly 6 months after their Mid Cork league final win against Grenagh in MTU, our U12s finally headed to Bishopstown 4G to take on Castlemagner in the County Final yesterday. The chilly December morning did little to deter a sizeable Passage crowd from turning out to watch this talented bunch of players who are yet to taste defeat in either league or championship this season. This match had been postponed twice due to unplayable pitches so our girls were raring to go as the referee threw in the ball at 11.30am. The opening score came immediately with Castlemagner pointing almost straight from the throw in. Passage responded instantly with a goal much to the joy of the Passage crowd. Shortly after they added to their tally with a well-taken point and a rocket of a goal. Scores were proving hard to come by for both teams with the defenses doing their utmost to force the opposition into impossible angles and putting in some fantastic blocks and tackles. Further scores from play steadied the ship somewhat for Passage, with Castlemagner keeping the scoreboard ticking over with some well-worked points. There was very little between the teams at the half-time whistle and the scoreline reflected the competitive nature of the match.

As the second half unfolded, Passage moved up a gear and took the game by the scruff of the neck. As the chilly breeze swept across the pitch they executed inch-perfect passes, demonstrating incredible athleticism and skill against a determined Castlemagner team who kept fighting until the final whistle. Passage capitalised on their increased levels of possession and took full advantage of their scoring opportunities. When the final whistle blew the outburst of pure joy from these girls was a pleasure to see and it was fantastic to have such a strong support there to witness their achievement. Both teams are to be commended on their skill level, sportsmanship and resilience throughout the match and no doubt they will meet again in future competitions.

Sincere thanks to Castlemagner for a very sporting game, to the referee Brendan Noonan and his umpires, to Bishopstown GAA for the fabulous facilities and of course to our supporters who turned out in great numbers and fine voice to encourage the team all the way to the final whistle. Congratulations to the girls on adding the county title to their league victory. There will be many more great days out with this talented team. An incredible collective effort this season with every single girl contributing.

Passage team:

K. Daly, S. Lordan, D. Price, L. Browne, A. Murphy, M. Murphy, R. Hanlon, S. Hendrick, E. Collier, E. Barry, C. Murray, A. O’Neill Ram, G. Murray, I. Sjaellender, K. O’Herlihy, E. Lenihan, H. O’Brien, A. O’Driscoll, A. Walsh, S. Mooney, G. Walton, S. Coughlan, E. Corcoran Duggan, L. Preston