Derby brings out the best in Catherine’s

A BATTLE all the way at Youghal on Saturday, the big crowd getting real value for money in an Evening Echo Cork Co SHC local derby clash rich in quality and fervour.

Maybe it was the fear of a relegation dogfight that drove the players on. Maybe it was just the brilliant hurling conditions that brought out the best in two committed sides. Maybe, but there can only be one winner and it’s St Catherine’s who go into the championship draw, leaving Killeagh to battle against relegation with Castlelyons.

Killeagh came agonisingly close — two gilt-edged missed goal chances going abegging — but for guts and determination alone St Catherine’s deserved their victory.