Hogan Goal Seals Thrilling Win for St. Gabriel’s ‘B’

St. Gabriel’s ‘B’   3-17
Fr Murphy’s        3-16

St. Gabriel’s ‘B’ edged Fr Murphy’s by a single point in a gripping Round 5 Intermediate Hurling Championship contest at Scrubs on Sunday afternoon.

The teams exchanged scores throughout a closely fought first half. Fr Murphy’s had the benefit of a strong breeze but couldn’t build a decisive advantage. A turnover led to a well-taken Murphy’s goal in the 28th minute, before Neil Rogers closed the half with a superb long-range point for Gabriel’s.

Fr Murphy’s went into the interval holding a slender 1-9 to 0-10 lead.

Fr. Murphy’s began the second half strongly and enjoyed an excellent ten-minute spell. Goals from Ryan Meyler and Gavin Watchorn helped them open a six-point lead by the 37th minute, leaving Gabriel’s with plenty of work to do.

Gabriel’s refused to let the game slip away. Eoin Kelly kept the scoreboard moving with a string of points, including two frees, while Paddy Naughton added a superb score as the deficit was gradually reduced.

Kelly then fired a 20-metre free to the net in the 55th minute to set up a tense finish. Rolling back the years with a terrific individual performance, he finished with an outstanding 2-10, including 2-7 from placed balls.

The goal brought Gabriel’s within striking distance before the decisive score arrived in the 57th minute. A flowing team move created the opening for Hogan, who found the net to complete the comeback and give Gabriel’s the crucial advantage.

Hogan finished with 1-2, while Rogers contributed three excellent points from play, as Gabriel’s held firm to secure a thrilling 3-17 to 3-16 victory.

The teams will not have long to wait for a rematch. Following the weekend’s results, St. Gabriel’s ‘B’ and Fr. Murphy’s will meet again in the Intermediate Hurling Championship semi-final at McGovern Park, Ruislip, on Sunday 4th October at 3 pm. Fulham Irish will take on Kilburn ‘B’ in the other semi-final.