Loughrea always in control

Loughrea 1-12 Turloughmore 0-07

Turloughmore never looked like recreating the form that ousted Joe Canning’s Portumna and their wait for a first final since 1990 goes on. While All-Star and Galway skipper Fergal Moore was majestic in the full-back line, their lack of penetration up front proved costly. Johnny Maher’s first of seven points and a Neil Keary point on the turn got Loughrea off to a flyer, but after a lethargic opening, a Ronan Badger free and a super point from 38-year-old Francis Forde brought Turlough level.

But Colleran’s goal gave Loughrea the cushion their early pressure deserved. Emmett Mahony was the creator, with a slick pick-up, side-step and hand-pass to Colleran who rounded Paul Dullaghan in goal before tapping to the net for a 1-2 to 0-2 lead.