Fitness key for Loughmore

LOUGHMORE-CASTLEINEY retained their Mid-Tipperary SFC crown with a 1-11 to 0-11 victory against JK Brackens in Templetuohy yesterday, in a game that required extra-time.

Loughmore’s divisional success ensures a direct route to the county semi-finals and their greater fitness levels proved decisive after the sides had finished level at 0-10 to 1-7 with the regulation hour played.

At half-time, JK Brackens led by 0-5 to 0-3, but a goal from Liam McGrath, set up by cousin and Tipperary senior hurling star Noel, within 15 seconds of the restart, turned the game on its head.

However, in the final quarter, Loughmore failed to score and three unanswered points, including an equaliser from Alan O’Riordan, brought the game to extra-time.

Loughmore, who registered no fewer than 20 wides, led by 1-9 to 0-10 following the first period of extra-time and held on for victory.

Borrisokane and Gortnahoe-Glengoole will contest the county intermediate hurling final after coming through yesterday’s semis at Dolla.