All Ireland Final: Castleblayney’s Hurlers travelled to Croke Park on Sunday 10th Feb as rank outsiders to face Dunnamaggin of Kilkenny in the All Ireland Junior Club Hurling Final. With odds of 1/33 on the Kilkenny team, not too many would have expected any other outcome other that a comfortable Dunnamaggin win. However, Castleblayney’s Hurlers had not seen the script and proceeded to produce a heroic performance that will live long in the hearts and minds of the massive crowd of supporters travelling from Blayney and further afield.
Showing true grit and determination and no little skill, Blayney held the upper hand for long periods of the game. Bodies were put on the line and no blood, sweat or timber was spared in the effort. Having recovered from the setback of conceding an early goal, Blayney drove on to draw level and then lead at half time by 2 points. The margin went out to 4 points, and Blayney still held the lead entering the final 10 minutes. But having given everything they had, our lads finally succumbed to a late rally from Dunnamaggin and wend down as the most gallant of losers. Congratulations to Dunnamaggin on the win and well done to our team for the respectful manner in which they accepted this gut-wrenching defeat – you have won many friends across the country. Castleblayney is a proud town this week.
The team and mentors returned to Blayney on Sunday night to a huge reception of young and old. There may not have been any silverware on the day but Blayney brought a new level of honour and respect for the game of hurling in the town and county. A rollercoaster ride that began in Letterkenny in October ended 6 games and many journeys later on the hallowed turf of Croke Park where Blayney came within a whisker of glory.
The club would like to thank all who have helped us on or journey. All our sponsors and donors have contributed to the effort – we hope we have justified your faith in us. Thank you also to those who have provided other help and support – after training meals, breakfast morning sponsors, equipment sponsors, and many others too many to remember.
Hurling – All Ireland Final