Lixnaw welcomed Kenmare to an overcast Hermitage Park on Wednesday evening for the final round of matches in Group B of this year’s County Intermediate Hurling Championship. Kenmare were in great form and had already secured a semi-final spot but the home side were under some pressure to get a result to join them in the last four, despite being unbeaten themselves. Both sides were without starters for the match but expectations were high that a real tussle was in the offing.
The early exchanges were keen and the sides exchanged scores before a high centre was directed to the net by veteran Lixnaw full forward, Dick McElligott, in a score reminiscent of a much earlier hurling era. The gap created certainly helped the home team and they settled into the game with the backs coping well and linking well with midfield and forwards. Kenmare had sent out a team with plenty pace and ability though and kept in touch.
As the game wore on however, Lixnaw managed to extend their lead, with Cathal McCarthy, successful from placed balls, and an array of scorers contributing from play. Robert O’Brien added a fine goal from play before a long-range free found the net late in the game. At that stage the result was clear and both sides move on to the semi-final stage. The home side are set to play - the always formidable - Kilgarvan on Friday week.
In goals, Mike Conway was assured as usual, with his lengthy well-placed clearances a huge asset. The full-back line of Kieran Walsh, Declan McCarthy and Patrick Hogan was solid throughout and the halfbacks, Kieran Stack, Cathal McCarthy, and Matthew Pike covered a lot of ground to great effect. At midfield, Evan McCarthy and William Costello played well all through. Thomas Molyneaux, was a powerhouse at 11 with Billy Stack linking up well and Robert O’Brien on the flank clocking up a significant tally of fine scores. Inside, Stephen Keane, Dick McElligott and Jonny Crowley posed a significant physical challenge and added well to the score-sheet. Subs Dominic Kissane and J.P. O’Connell joined the fray in the second half and played their part in a fine performance – the latter an inspiration to all – still playing championship hurling after turning 60!
The game was ably refereed by Mike Hennessy and enjoyed by the sizable contingent of home and travelling supporters.
