GAELIC GAMES: DUBLIN JUVENILE ‘A’ FINAL
Flynn is spot on to seal the title for Saints
Daire Walsh
SHANE Flynn was the hero in Belfield last Thursday afternoon, when his late goal ensured that St Benildus College edged a thrilling Dublin Juvenile ‘A’ Football Championship decider against defending champions Colaiste Eoin.
Benildus and Eoin impressed during their respective semi-final victories over St Fintan’s HS and Maynooth, but thanks to strong performances from Dara Puirséil, Dónal Mac Dunnsleibhe and captain Iain O hEithir, the gaelscoil led by ten points with just 23 minutes gone on the clock.
Benildus were facing into a strong breeze for the opening period of the action, but a majestic goal by towering midfielder Ciaran Foley meant that the Kilmacud boys had reduced their arrears to six points (4-6 to 2-6) by the end of the half.
With the conditions now working in their favour, Benildus were back in the reckoning, and dual star Aaron O’Toole was beginning to make a serious impact. Yet, Eoin – who registered a slender league triumph against Benildus at the start of the school season – also had fine displays from the inspirational duo of Finn Ó Murchú and Padhraic O Luinneacháin.
Moving into the final quarter, Benildus were searching for a match-changing contribution, but a goal from sub Daragh Naylor offered them a confidence boost. They still trailed Eoin heading into second-half stoppage-time, before an expertly-converted Flynn penalty gave them a dramatic 4-16 to 5-12 win, and their fifth-ever success at this grade.