Setanta Hurling Club Secures Historic Ulster Intermediate Hurling Final Berth
Setanta Hurling Club orchestrated a nail-biting victory against Middletown of Armagh, propelling them to the Ulster Intermediate Hurling Final in a gripping showdown at Owenbeg with Gerard Gilmores strike at the death.
In a rain-soaked and intense encounter, both teams delivered an exhilarating first half, with Armagh’s Middletown edging ahead 0-10 to 0-8. Middletown’s four-point lead near the third quarter’s end hinted at Setanta’s possible struggle, but a resilient fightback narrowed the gap to two points.
Josh McGee Cronolly’s stunning goal provided Setanta with their first lead, 1-10 to 0-12, showcasing the team’s determination and spirit.
Initially, Middletown had dominated the match, racing to a four-point lead with Ben Toal, Ryan Gaffney, and Martin Moan on target. However, Setanta gradually found their rhythm, with Sean Ward and Gilmore narrowing the gap.
Declan Coulter and Bernard Lafferty’s efforts marked Setanta’s resurgence, leveling the scores. The seesaw battle continued as both teams traded blows, with Ryan Gaffney’s precision from frees and Setanta’s Gilmore matching each other’s feats.
The closing moments witnessed high drama, with Middletown awarded a penalty in the 59th minute. Amidst tense deliberations and an attempt from Gaffney that veered wide, Setanta clung onto their lead. Finally, in injury time, Gilmore’s decisive strike sealed Setanta’s fate, leading them to a thrilling victory and securing their place in the final.
Setanta’s triumph signifies a historic milestone in Donegal Hurling as they stand poised to etch their name in the annals of hurling history.
