Galway’s Davitts chase glory as camogie finals set to feature all provinces

ALL four provinces will be represented in tomorrow’s All-Ireland club camogie championship finals at Cusack Park, Mullingar.

In the senior decider, Davitts of Galway are chasing their first ever triumph against Granagh/Ballingarry of Limerick who have won the trophy on two previous occasions.

In 1999, when the Limerick girls secured back-to-back titles, they defeated this same opposition, however, after toppling All-Ireland champions Pearses, the Galway side will be determined to finish the year in style.

"We have represented our county twice before but have never been successful. Having emerged again after three years in the doldrums, we are very keen to bring back the cup," Olivia Forde, who played in the 1996 All-Ireland winning team, said.

Anne Broderick sister of Galway hurler Kevin was also part of the '96 team while Caroline Kelly and Lizzie Flynn, will be looking for a second All-Ireland medal this year having won the junior final last month.

Another who will take careful watching is full forward Lourda Kavanagh who contributed 11 points in their semi-final win over Dunloy.

Mike Chawke has a long association as manager of Granagh/Ballingarry. Yet, his wife Ber surpasses him in this role of honour she won her first All-Ireland club medal with Ballyagran back in 1978 and still is one of the stalwarts of this team at centre back.

Their 16-year old daughter Fiona is listed among the substitutes, while her four nieces, Kathryn and Laura Leslie (capt), Jean Cullinane, Christine O'Shea, are involved. For good measure, Mike's niece Cathriona Noonan is also on the panel.

Limerick stars Vera, Aoife and Deirdre Sheehan, Eileen O'Brien, Joanne Clifford and Meadhbh Nash will front their challenge.

Meanwhile, Armagh champions Crossmaglen and Drumcullen of Offaly will contest the junior final. In the competition's inaugural year, Drum will be captained by county star Maggie Lynch.

It will be a busy weekend for Crossmaglen - Oisín McConville and Tony McEntee will line out with the football team in the Ulster club championship while their respective partners Sharon Duncan and Eimear Carragher will also strive to bring All-Ireland honours back to the Orchard County.