The under 16 Camogie teams were delighted to host Ballincollig of Cork for the weekend. Ballincollig have a long association with the club through the hurling section and the Camogie crew were delighted to expand the link.
The initial meeting was on the Prunty pitch at 3.30 on Saturday afternoon. The weather was warm and the sun shone. However it was clear that the Ballincollig girls were in no humour to enjoy the great views of the Dublin mountains – they clearly had hurling on their mind!
The visitors played a fast-moving game – they used the wings very effectively – and were clearly on-song through the first of three 20 minute ‘halves’. A slender one point lead was a fair reflection of the balanced game. The second ‘half’ saw the 16B team enter the fray – and the game upped in intensity. Ballincollig picked off three classy points – and a (lucky) goal – however the B’s fought valiantly against a Cork team of some note – Féile finalists of 2014 and County Championship Finalists earlier this year. Our B team were mighty and performed outstandingly. For the last of our three ‘halves’ the Boden 16A’s again took to the field. Some of the slickest passing of the year was on view and our front six were outstanding.
The final whistle blew to the best of all possible results – Decci had us up by a point, Ballincollig claimed they had it by a point and Ger Delaney – who had refereed failed to produce his notebook – honours even we’ll call it.
A quick trip home for a shower before we met up for one of Jimbo’s rather tasty BBQ at the club, speeches and a table quiz followed. The girls then departed for their host families who extended the red carpet (see the little pun there?). By all accounts there was plenty of chat until the small hours of the morning.
Well done and thanks to the under 16 parents for all their help. It was a joy to host Ballincollig – we look forward to a long association with the Cork Club. Pictures next newsletter.