GAA: LEINSTER SF ‘C’ FINAL
Clonkeen fall short in Leinster decider
THEY produced a gallant display at Parnell’s GAA on Tuesday afternoon, but Clonkeen College ultimately came up short against Dunshaughlin CC in the Leinster Schools’ Senior Football ‘C’ decider.
Clonkeen progressed to the provincial championship courtesy of their success in the Dublin SF ‘C’ showpiece over Lucan CBS last Tuesday week.
It was a short turnaround for the Blackrock school (who are coached by former Dublin footballer Enda Sheehy), but despite facing into a strong breeze in the opening period, they held a slender advantage on the stroke of 15 minutes.
However, even though they missed a penalty during the early exchanges, Dunshaughlin eventually developed a five-point interval cushion (1-7 to 0-5).
This was throwing down the gauntlet to Clonkeen, but with Cormac Quinn and Eoin Kennedy in scoring form, they remained within touching distance. Sean McDonald also made an impact before his withdrawal because of a hamstring injury, while illness meant that Rory Fitzpatrick was unavailable for selection.
Yet, in his absence, Greg Sheehan, David O’Driscoll and Kevin Gannon provided strong leadership in defence. Their impressive netminder – Oscar Puszcz – also pulled off a series of excellent saves from goal-bound strikes, but in spite of Clonkeen’s best efforts, Dunshaughlin emerged victorious on a scoreline of 2-12 to 0-11.
Compiled by Daire Walsh