Oulart-the-Ballagh rule Wexford again

WEXFORD SHC FINAL:

Oulart-the-Ballagh 3-12 Buffer's Alley 1-13

Oulart-the-Ballagh captured their fourth Wexford SHC title in six years at Wexford Park today, but only after withstanding a determined second half challenge from Buffer's Alley.

Managed by former Wexford star Liam Dunne, it was a late flourish by the Oulart men which ultimately ensured victory.

The seven-time winners made an excellent start to this contest and quickly burst out of the blocks.

Nicky Kirwan was the scorer-in-chief in the opening half and did not take long to get on the scoresheet.

The speedy corner-forward bagged the game's opening goal within the first minute as wind-assisted Oulart led from the off.

Kirwan crashed the ball to the net following an excellent passing movement which saw his side win possession from the throw-in. Both Laurence Prendergast and Gareth Sinnott were involved in the move, before Kirwan slotted home.

Oulart continued to build on the early momentum and with Buffer's Alley playing second fiddle, Oulart quickly raced into a 1-8 to 0-3 advantage with Kirwan hitting 1-3.

Buffer's Alley went on the offensive on the restart but with Barry Kehoe performing excellently at corner back, Oulart remained resilient.

Buffer's Alley eventually broke through the Oulart rearguard with Ben O'Connor's net billowed.

Oulart only managed to score 1-1 in a 23-minute spell in the second half, but came good again late on to double that tally.

Kirwan, Stephen Doyle, Keith Rossiter and Rory Jacob instrumental for Oulart as they held out for a hard-earned success.

After the game, Oulart-the-Ballagh captain Paul Roche accepted the cup on behalf of his victorious team-mates.