Story of the Game
Daire Walsh
SCORE OF THE MATCH: As well as being a pivotal score, Caitriona Collins’ 41st-minute goal was also the most eye-catching of the day. After Finola Neville’s blistering run initially placed Down on the back-foot, the Ballinhassig forward fired emphatically beyond the reach of Maria McNally.
REFEREE WATCH: Westmeath referee John Dermody had a relatively quiet afternoon, until he gave Down’s Sara-Louise Carr her marching orders on 49 minutes. It seemed like a harsh call at the time, but the Ulster outfit’s challenge was already starting to fade.
TURNING POINT: With Down storming back on the restart, Collins (2) and the understated Caroline Sugrue registered three points without reply to created daylight for Cork.
KEY PLAYER: Saoirse McCarthy was a deserving recipient of the player of the match award. The Courcey Rovers ace finished with an impressive personal tally of 0-4.