18 October 2012
Naomh Eoin Under 14 Hurlers won the Ulster Féile title on Saturday against Cuchullians of Dunloy.
The game was played on a beautiful afternoon in St Enda's, Glengormley. As with any final, both teams battled hard to gain an early foothold on the game, the Johnnies seizing the advantage and at half time were ahead by 5 points to Dunloy's 1.
The second half saw Naomh Eoin play with the wind at their backs and immediately they racked up a few points to further widen the gap. Dunloy had one guilt edged goal chance which just flashed wide in the dying minutes, other than this The
Johnnies really were the better team on the day.
Many thanks to Dunloy for a great game and St Enda's for the use of their facilities on the day. Fair play to the referee and the volunteer umpires from Naomh Eoin and Dunloy clubs who were all called upon at short notice - thank you. Fair play also to Patch Mullan who spoke in the changing rooms to the victorious Johnnies team after the game. Thanks also to Kevin Kelly of the Ulster Council who organised the game and presented the teams with medals and memento Féile t-shirts.
Judging by this game there is a lot of potential in the future of Antrim Hurling if it continues to be nurtured and developed in the correct manner. It is evident that both teams had been coached well as the skill level was very high for any age. Dunloy were always going to be up against it, playing a Johnnies side which has had a very successful year to date.
