A successful start to the 2021 Junior B Championship following a comfortable win against East Cork side St. Catherine’s GAA at Kilmichael on the eve on the All-Ireland Hurling Final.
Against a stiff breeze, Garnish got a dream start with a point from Brian Terry and goal from Cian O’Neill. Eoin Condon and Rory Galvin got two back for the Saints either side the water break. However, a phenomenal work- rate from the Garnish wingers resulted resulted in a well-worked goal finished by Brian Terry, followed by points on the loop for Fintan JL and Rory O’Driscoll. Garnish led 2-5 to 0-2 at the break and, with the wind at their backs, would have been expected to kick-on in the 3rd quarter. However, it was St. Catherine’s who found their groove with quick ball to their corner-forwards. Despite the best efforts of Daniel Rue, acting as sweeper, a goal and a brace of points brought St. Catherine’s considerably closer. Points from Sean Terry and Paul O’Neill ensured there would not may any major St. Catherine’s revival and the 3rd quarter finished all square. Fresh legs from Dean Henshaw, Daniel Harrington, Jamie O’Driscoll and Hugh Suanais ensured that the result was never really in doubt in the final quarter. A brace of points from Dylan Henshaw resulted in a 2-13 to 1-5 win for the Western parish.
Verdict? a competent display albeit room for improvement. Addressing some notable wides from poor shot selection in first half and easy frees conceded in the third quarter could have resulted in a more clinical win. However, the unity and progression in the Garnish team was clearly in evidence and would have silenced the most ardent critics. Here’s to hoping that the team can go one better than 2020 and win their forthcoming quarter final. Gairinis Abu!