Hurling: Team of the week after gripping semi-finals
Brion Saunderson gearing up to score his point against St Finbarr's. The Midleton goalkeeper makes it into this week's team. Picture: ©INPHO/Bryan Keane
LAST weekend’s hurling semi-finals had it all – late winners, extra time, a penalty shootout, and some incredible performances from some of the county’s best hurlers.
With that in mind, it’s time to include not just Premier Senior, Senior A and Premier Intermediate, but also the Intermediate A grade as we brace for the finals in two weeks’ time.
The Cork U20 star has been outstanding this year, and his impact on the Midleton team felt the moment he returned to the side for their final group game against Blackrock. His performance against St Finbarr’s was arguably his best of the season though, as an exceptional point blank save on Conor Cahalane rounded off a composed and courageous display. He even pointed from inside his own 45 to seal the win, and a second final appearance in three years for the club.
One of Sarsfields best players this year, Leopold was outstanding once again for the Riverstown club. Strong distribution, strength in defence and brilliant positioning made life very difficult for the Imokilly forwards, a group that boasts plenty of inter-county quality.
Though starting the game at centre-back, Damien operated in a deeper role in the second half and was immense. He kept a strong Midleton full-forward line relatively quiet for the duration of their semi-final and was unfortunate to come away on the wrong side of the scoreline.
Arguably the player of the weekend, were it not for Cathal, Sars would be out. The corner-back was class against Imokilly. It was he who dropped the ball in for their last gasp goal to send the game to extra time, and he even managed five points from play, as in extra time he moved further up the field. His fourth point was the best score of the game, as he managed to get his shot away and over the bar while being fouled.
The Cork senior was outstanding against Castlemartyr, sweeping up everything thrown at him in the second half as they booked a spot in the Premier Intermediate final. His quality in and out of possession was key to their win.
There aren’t many who can play 140 minutes in two days and maintain such a high standard, but Ciarán Joyce showed exactly why he’s been nominated for an All-Star. Cork’s number 6 was incredible in both games and would not subside no matter how many times Sars and Castlelyons threw bodies at him.
One of Midleton’s unsung heroes this year, Moloney put in a headline performance against the Barrs. Scoring an excellent point from play, he was called to defensive duties moments later and produced one of the most impressive stops this season as he denied Jack Cahalane on the goal-line.
The Youghal veteran put in a strong shift for Imokilly, pointing twice from play and working incredibly hard throughout the game, and looked unstoppable at times.
Though named at wing forward, Buckley’s performance against Midleton was top class. His pace was a constant threat, and he scored four incredible points in a performance that was deserving of a win.
As Kilworth came good yet again, Sheehan was in fine form against Ballincollig, scoring an impressive five times from play. His accuracy with the ball in hand made him a constant threat for the Village.
On his return from injury, the Cork veteran put in one of his trademark performances, scoring twice from play. His accuracy from placed balls was lethal – hitting seven of eight attempts between the posts.
As Bride Rovers held on to win the penalty shootout, Ronan’s performance was key for the east Cork outfit. Scoring 1-3 from play at centre-forward, he turned up when they needed him most.
While on the losing side, Ryan was outstanding for the Rockies’ second string. Scoring three points from play, a free, and a goal from a penalty, he was unfortunate not to get more and he’ll certainly be looked at for the senior setup next year.
Consistently impressing for Carrig this year, Mulcahy was on form once again against Newcestown, scoring three points from play and putting in a good overall performance.
As Aghabullogue came good to defeat Mayfield and keep the hopes of a double alive, Bradley was one of their best players. Scoring four frees, he showed his quality and will be one to watch in their final with Midleton.
Cian Hogan (Bride Rovers) (Three penalties saved in the shootout)
Colm Spillane (Castlelyons)
Luke Meade (Newcestown) 0-1
Mark Coleman (Blarney) 0-10 (0-5 f, 0-1 65)
Seán Walsh (Carrigtwohill) 1-5 (0-2 f)
Aaron Mulcahy (Midleton Int) 0-13 (0-10 f)
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