Meaney makes history for Crusheen

CRUSHEEN made history yesterday in Cusack Park, collecting their first Clare SHC title at the expense of Cratloe, a late goal from Paddy Meaney finally killing off their opponents.

It wasn’t all glamorous goals for Crusheen: their much-vaunted defence held Cratloe’s attack in check for long periods, and that strength at the back, spearheaded by the immense Cian Dillon, was a vital part of their victory.

Cratloe – who made one change before the throw-in, with Martin Murphy in for Sean Chaplin at midfield – defended the scoreboard end in the first-half but were rocked on their heels by Crusheen’s opening attack.