Patrick Kelly: Case for the defence as Haven and Nemo serve up a tough watch

The West Cork outfit did enough to get over the line in the Cork showpiece.

HEAVY TRAFFIC: Mark Cronin of Nemo Rangers is tackled by Mark Collins, left, anD Cathal Maguire of Castlehaven. Photo by Brendan Moran/Sportsfile

Castlehaven sealed their sixth county title and their first in 10 years after overcoming Nemo Rangers in what can be politely described as a tactical arm-wrestle. With scores at a premium amid mass defences it was the class of the Hurley brothers, Brian and Michael, which ultimately proved the difference. 

Since their last county final victory in 2013 no team has deserved another one more than they have and they deserve enormous credit for continuing to go to the well after some agonising defeats to both Nemo and St Finbarr's in recent years.