Delight for Carrigtwohill boss Denis Walsh as Division 1 status secured with victory over Killeagh

Carrigtwohill confirmed their safety in the Red FM Division 1 HL on Sunday, defeating Killeagh at home.

It was a hard fought battle between the two east Cork sides, with plenty of scores and goal mouth action.

But in the eyes of Carrigtwohill boss Denis Walsh, it was a successful morning’s work for his team, and he couldn’t hide his joy at remaining in Division 1 for 2027.

“I’m absolutely delighted. Look, it was an important game for both teams because whoever won today was going to be safe in Division 1 for another year. 

"That would have been our goal at the start of this league, obviously to stay in Division 1.

“Ourselves and Killeagh are the only two teams in this division from the Senior A Championship. 

"So obviously this league is a stretch for both of us, but we love being in this division. We think it's beneficial for our players, and we've been in it since this format came in 4 years ago.

“Over the last few weeks, we were playing some of the top teams in the Premier Division. Say Sarsfields, Midleton, Blackrock, Glen Rovers.

“So look, we've had to produce good performances to be competitive in all those games.” 

Carrigtwohill made a lightning fast start to the clash, with six different names contributing in the opening twelve minutes. That spread of scores gave Walsh great satisfaction.

“Obviously there was a very strong wind, so we weren't even too sure whether we'd enough scored at halftime, to be honest, even though we scored a good bit in the first half”.

“But yeah, there was a great spread of scorers. But look, that's the way the modern game is. 

"You must be getting scores from all over the field. So we were just pleased to get a big tally today.” 

Division 1 top scorer Seán Walsh had another fine morning for Carrig, notching 1-12. And his manager was more than complimentary of the forward’s performances this year.

“Seán has been absolutely incredible for us in all the matches. I mean, you couldn't speak more highly of him. 

"He's been absolutely brilliant.

“He's been a real leader for us. Like, his scoring contributions from week to week never drops. I mean, his consistency, he's been consistently brilliant. 

"And look, he was outstanding again today.” 

While one team rejoices, another must suffer, and unfortunately for nearby rivals Killeagh, their short stint in the top division is over. But Denis Walsh made sure to commend his side’s opponents.

“They gave us a great game, and we knew exactly what we were expecting.

“We've been in touch with their recent league performances, and I know they were missing a good few guys today, so they'll be a serious team come championship.”