Champions Brogan’s look to defend proud record

ST BROGAN’S College, Bandon put their Munster A SHC title on the line when they play Roscrea Community College in the final today at Garryspillane/Knocklong (12.30pm).

The fact that it’s Cork v Tipperary adds greatly to the fixture which should produce a cracking contest in the best traditions of the game.

The Cork school has enjoyed a tremendous run at this level. They have won the title three times in the last five years, but according to team coach Jerry Walsh, that great run of successes has to end sometime.

“We have only four of last year’s winning team available, but we have built up a great history and tradition in the college and you can take it we won’t be giving up our title easily,” said Mr Walsh.

“To be honest we came through the easier side of the draw and I don’t really know how good the team really is. Eoin Kelly, Ronan Crowley, Cormac Ryan and Joseph Harrington are all that remain from last year’s winning team, and we may lack experience.

“Having said that, we have trained well during the Christmas holidays. The lads are very keen to keep the school to the forefront and they certainly don’t want to be the group to lose a Munster final.”

Roscrea Community College draw players from Tipperary, Laois and Offaly, three strong hurling counties. They caused an upset in beating Borrisokane in the semi-final, and the fact that they won the junior title two years ago will make them favourites to regain the senior title they last won in 2006.

That year they beat St Brogan’s in the final and according to team official Willie Smith, they will respect the Bandon school but won’t fear them.

“They are the champions and you can take it they won’t be easily beaten. I’m expecting a mighty battle from Brogan’s, and in any two horse race, it’s 50-50 as to who will emerge the winner.

“We have a very nice blend with players from the three counties involved.

“Eoin Cleary, Jason Fitzpatrick, Joe Carroll, Colm Larkin and Loughlin Hegarty will backbone the team and I feel the outcome will depend on which team wants it most.”

Weather conditions may play a part. Hurling in the present heavily going can be a bit of a lottery, but having seen off the favourites, Roscrea get the vote to regain a title they last won three years ago against another Cork side, Coachford College.