There were a few sensational scores that stood out from those in Cork colours. Wing-forward Saoirse McCarthy’s response to an Ailish O’Reilly point in the 24th minute was out on its own. The pressure was on as Galway had edged in front during a tit-for-tat first half.
Similar to Robert Downey’s magical run on All-Ireland hurling final day, the Courcey Rovers’ number 10 took off and sprinted along the left flank, leaving her marker behind to fire a wondrous point. The Cork half-forward line’s speed of movement has troubled so many teams all year and this was the finest example of the energy they bring. Sorcha McCartan was the first sub on for Cork, she replaced the injured Katrina Mackey (who was immense bagging 1-2) in the 39th minute.
Having been a starter earlier in the season, McCartan had been raring to go. Her first point was a thing of real beauty from out on the left wing, a match-winning score for definite, from the tightest of angles. After sub Clodagh Finn produced a terrific point, McCartan’s second white flag in the fifth minute of stoppage time, sealed the deal.
Despite rolling her ankle a few minutes earlier, and to be so clinical at such an important stage, deserves maximum credit. Big scores for a big day. A collection of the latest sports news, reports and analysis from Cork.
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