Mac Dara’s take control to earn bragging rights in local derby
GAELIC GAMES: DUBLIN SCHOOLS JUV F ‘B’ FINAL
By Daire Walsh
ON a gloomy afternoon in O’Toole Park last Thursday, St Mac Dara’s Community College saw off the challenge of local rivals Terenure College in a low-scoring Dublin Schools Juvenile Football ‘B’ decider.
‘Nure had the aid of a strong breeze for the opening period, and as a result, Mac Dara’s who include Kilmacud Crokes star Pat Burke in their management team) had to defend stoutly.
Full-back Michael O’Keeffe was an imposing presence in the Templeogue’s side rearguard, which made it easier for them to create a significant platform at the other end of the field. Indeed, fine work by midfield duo Adam McGarr and Jack Boyle paved the way for Alan Connolly’s goal ten minutes into the action.
This was certainly a set-back for Terenure, but in spite of the best endeavours from Mac Dara’s corner-backs Simon Murphy and Sean Wynne, a brace of frees by Seamus Noone helped ‘Nure to level proceedings (1-0 to 0-3) in time for the interval.
A magnificent save from netminder Daire Kane-O’Toole prevented Mac Dara’s from facing into a deficit at the start of the second half, and when the play resumed, the Wellington Lane side were eager to gain momentum.
Four points in quick succession by Ciaran Hogan, Dylan Ryan, Cian Rushe and half-back Chris Duffy offered them plenty of breathing space, and although Duffy’s score was their final contribution to the scoreboard, Mac Dara’s (led superbly by captain Jack McDermott) held their opponents scoreless for the entire second half to seal a 1-4 to 0-3 success.