Carey faces Gribben in All-Ireland showdown

Tony Carey beat Tony Dunlea by two bowls in the Munster veteran final at Kilcorney on Monday to set up an All-Ireland final meeting with Oliver Gribben, who retained his Ulster title on the same evening.

A massive first shot gave Carey almost a bowl on Dunlea. He followed up with two more good throws to Cooney’s where he had a full bowl. He was down to Coleman’s Bridge in another three where he was close to two in front. He had a second bowl at Cullinane’s. Dunlea brought the lead under two in the next exchange. Carey was two in front again at the novice line and held that lead to the finish.

He qualified for the final by beating Jerry Murphy in the final of the Junior section at Curraheen. He won the opening tip by 40m and led to light at the first bend. Murphy missed Ryan’s and Carey went on to raise a bowl at the bridge. Murphy matched him up the hill, but Carey held most of his lead. Murphy missed a chance to close the gap at the riding school and again at Richard’s lane. Carey looked vulnerable after a poor shot towards Lane’s, but Murphy just beat the tip. Carey secured his win with his bowl to Jimmy’s cross, but Murphy was very unlucky to have his reply blocked.