Davis into U21 Championship decider
By William O'Connor
THOMAS Davis Under 21 footballers will contest this year’s championship final following their 2-9 to 1-9 win over St Jude’s in Tymon on Saturday writes William O’Connor.
The Kiltipper side had to dig deep for this win as St Jude’s twice came storming back in the second half to draw level in an exciting contest.
Thomas Davis are into the U21 Football Championship final at the expense of St Jude's
However, two late points from Mark Nolan proved the difference as the Tallaght side progressed to the decider in O’Toole Park on December 1 when they will face off against Ballymun Kickhams.
The visitors had the upper hand in this contest and at the break established a seven-point cushion with Sean Farrelly netting a goal while Mark Nolan was on target with points.
With David Keogh, Oisin Kelly and Eoin Lambert standing out for the winners, Davis looked to have the upper hand but Jude’s came storming back with a string of points and a goal in the second half to make it a fierce contest.
However, the match swung back in Davis’ favour when substitute Adam Fitzpatrick, only on the pitch six minutes, broke through to fire to the back of the net.
To Jude’s credit, they rallied again in an exciting finish and it was Nolan who proved decisive with two late points that proved the difference in the end.
“It was a real nail-biting finish and we were just delighted to get over the line,” said Thomas Davis manager Shane McGrath, a former senior footballer with Clare.
“The lads had to work hard for this win and it’s great to reach the final,” he added.
Davis now face Ballymun Kickhams who are managed by former Dublin player Paddy Christie and who have Dublin sub keeper Evan Comerford and Paddy Small in their ranks.
This Kickhams team won the minor championship two years ago and the last time Davis reached an Under 21 final was nine years ago – losing to none other than Ballymun.
“We know we have a huge task on our hands. Ballymun are an excellent side and we will have to be at our best. But there is a great buzz in the club with the juniors getting promoted and senior team winning the championship,” said McGrath.
Davis have eight senior players in their side and will be confident they can go all the way having beaten Na Fianna in the previous round.
