Scoil Chrónáin prevail in Corn Aghais thriller against Scoil Lorcain

A LATE point from centre back, Diarmuid Breathnach was all that separated Scoil Chrónáin Rathcoole and Palmerstown’s Scoil Lorcain as the former edged a thrilling Corn Aghais decider 2-5 to 1-7 in Croke Park last week.

In what was one of the most exciting ties in this latest batch of Cumann na mBunscol finals, Scoil Chrónáin enjoyed the brighter start thanks to a few early frees from Breathnach and a goal from corner forward, Oisín Ó Brádaigh, nephew of former Dublin hurler and footballer, David O Callaghan.

Yet, spearheaded by the industrious Justin Mariner, who converted several frees, Scoil Lorcain worked their way back to head in at the break a point up.

Robert O’Hanlon, at centre back, was also very impressive for the Palmerstown outfit, as was Finn Garner in midfield and Rory O’Connor at full-back.

Yet the introduction of Tríona Ní Ruiséil just prior to the half-time recess was to prove a telling move as the Scoil Chrónáin substitute pounced for a goal which, combined with two 65s from Breathnach, served to push the Rathcoole team four points ahead.

Scoil Lorcain, however, were far from done and managed to restore parity, thanks in no small measure to a superbly-struck free by Mariner that found its way to the back of the net.

Scoil Lorcain, Palmerstown certainly played their part in one of the most exciting games of last week’s Cumann na mBunscoil finals

Yet there was still time for one last twist as a long puck-out from Fionn Ó hUirlithe eventually broke to Breathnach who, from 21 yards out and close to the side[1]line, fired the ball over the bar.

While it was a hard one to take for the Scoil Lorcain players, many of whom had been going for a football and hurling double this year, they can still find solace in playing their part in one of the most entertaining spectacles at GAA headquarters last week.

What’s more, they enjoyed a great campaign that included a narrow win over Scoil Chrónáin on their way to topping the group earlier in the competition.

Yet the Rathcoole boys picked the right moment to avenge that loss with a fine display that also featured an excellent performance by midfielder, Adam Ó Ceallaigh as well as that of Sam Ó Dalaigh who cleared a world of ball at corner back.

What’s more, the win was a great return for fifth-class student, Sam Bailey who has managed and trained the Scoil Chrónáin footballers and hurlers this year.