Colum's crowned county champs

ST Colum’s defeated Newmarket in the minor B2 county football final by 2-12 to 0-12 recently.

This was the finale of a seven-match campaign and a fitting end to a very solid year for the St Colum’s team.

Newmarket decided to play against the wind and started well, going three points up before Colum’s got their first score. At half-time, Colum’s led 0-8 to 0-6.

The North Cork champs came out all guns blazing at the start of the second half and it was here that the West Cork boys formed the basis of a strong second-half performance. Time and again the tackler came away with the ball, interceptions were made or the North Cork forwards were stood up in the tackle and forced back outside or turned over. 

It was one of these turnovers that brought the ball to full forward Jack Murphy after a three-pass move brought from the Colum’s full-back line to the Newmarket 20-metre line. Murphy took control and calmly slotted the ball past the goalkeeper to put five points between the sides. 

Though Newmarket kept relentless pressure on the Colum’s goal, the defence manned up time and again with goalkeeper Fionnán O’Sullivan excellent with his kick-outs and his goalkeeping duties. 

Colum’s broke well and played the ball intelligently with some great kick passing. Cormac O’Connor kicked some great scores and Tadgh Cronin added a second goal. 

Newmarket rallied but their closest effort came off the crossbar and was cleared. Colum’s were deserving winners based on team play and good football. Conditions were excellent for the time of year on the Naomh Abán pitch and it is a credit to all involved for producing such a fine venue. 

The day belonged to the U18s of Colum’s who worked hard for their first minor county championship win. This is their second cup this year and adds to the fine collection of trophies from U10s, U12s and U14s.