Sticky Stradbally break Nire hearts again

Stradbally 1-8 Nire 0-10

David Grey’s injury time point meant this was the fourth time in a decade that Nire lost to the same opponents in the such heartbreaking circumstances. The losers bossed long spells of this tie before veteran Ger Power’s fisted goal in the 48th minute gave Stradbally the lead for the first time, and dramatically changed the course of this decider.

Nire raced into a four points lead midway through the opening half (0-5 to 0-1) before retiring 0-7 to 0-4 clear at the break. Stradbally’s woes were compounded by injuries to corner-back Trevor Costelloe and midfielder John Hearne with both players removed to hospital. Niall Curran’s pointed free for Stradbally within two minutes of the restart was neutralised by a magnificent Shane Walsh effort in the 36th minute, but it was back to a two point game on the three quarter hour when John Coffey kicked a great score.