Collins strikes late to secure UCC victory

MARK Collins grabbed the late point that ensured UCC warmed up for their forthcoming Sigerson Cup campaign in perfect fashion, as they claimed victory over Carlow IT in last night’s HE SFL Division 1 (Ryan Cup) final at the Waterford IT grounds in Carriganore.

Collins converted a 59th minute free that capped UCC’s comeback as they had trailed 0-7 to 0-5 with six minutes left on the clock. But Barry O’Driscoll and Collins both raised white flags from play before the Castlehaven man struck the winner as the game entered injury-time. There was still time for more drama as UCC goalkeeper Darren Farry produced a fantastic late save to deny Laois senior Kevin Meaney from finding the net and then Meaney saw a point disallowed for an illegal handpass over the bar in injury-time.

Carlow IT were left to rue several missed chances as they only registered a single point in the second-half. They lead 0-6 to 0-4 at the break, largely due to a powerful second quarter that saw them outscore UCC by 0-5 to 0-2. Meaney and substitute Craig Rogers were in terrific form for Carlow IT, while Darroch Mulhall was threatening in attack. UCC were grateful to the heroics of Farry in the 12th minute when he produced two saves in quick succession to prevent the concession of a goal.