Midleton hurlers' depth evident during impressive victory over Youghal

The large attendance at Dungourney on a damp evening showed the interest that was in Friday's Intermediate A Hurling Championship quarter-final.

Youghal were impressive in their final group game against Erin’s Own with Midleton pushed to the limit against Kildorrery. However, we never got the thriller anticipated with the Magpies' 4-15 to 2-12 victors, on the back of an early burst of goals which put them 10 points up. 

Manager Keith Ryan praised his troops' focus for this crucial clash.

“I think our great start with two goals in the space of 11 minutes set the tone as Youghal were always chasing the game from that point,” said Ryan.

Experience coupled with youth, along with a positive attitude, gave them a strong platform. Luke O'Farrell hit 2-2 and Peter Barrett 0-5.

“The lads who have been there and done it help the younger lads and you can see on the training ground they are all battling for starting roles."

Leading by example

The work across the board in Midleton from the academy up, is paying off. Their first team secured passage straight to the Premier Senior final while their minors face Blackrock next Monday in the county final.

“I think John Fenton as chairman leads by example and the whole club are behind his dedication.” 

Coming in, Ryan was wary of Youghal but his team responded to the challenge.

Youghal have some quality hurlers and we needed to be at our best to ensure there was no complacency.” 

Looking ahead, a semi-final clash against Bandon awaits Midleton. 

Ryan believes his side will have to be at their very best to reach the decider.

“I would like to think we will have the same group of players available to us because this will be another step up."  

The mood in the Youghal camp was one of true disappointment as manager Alan Geary praised the efforts of his squad.

“You cannot give a team in the class of Midleton a 10-point start in the opening 12 minutes and expect no repercussions but credit to the lads they kept battling to the wire when throwing in the towel was an easier option."

The Youghal chief took time to thank his players and coaching staff.

“I would like to praise the commitment of the players and the dedication of our coaching staff who have been at this since last January and although this loss was disappointing I do feel we have a squad young enough to bounce back.

“Midleton are a fine team with quality players and as a fellow East Cork club, we wish them the best going forward in this championship.”