Warrenpoint 4-8 Ballyvarley 5-11.
If the bards or Seanchai were to tell the story of this game, then it would be all about Ballyvarley’s bravery in a glorious second half. Trailing by 2-4 to 3-6 at the end of a competitive and rain soaked first half, Ballyvarley U-15 Hurlers had just about managed to stay within striking distance of a strong Warrenpoint side, and few would have given them much hope on the restart. However, what emerged in the second half was as surprising as it was breath-taking, as the Reds turned the game on its head to dominate the play and push for a stirring victory.
“Fight” was the operative word, as Ballyvarley battled for every ball and burst forward with serious intent each time they were in possession. 2-2 from Micheal McNulty and 0-2 from Patrick Walsh wiped out the deficit and the Reds led by four points after twelve absorbing minutes. A late burst of 1-2 from Warrenpoint saw the sides level at 4-8 each on the water break and it was all to play for, as the teams went in for their final pep-talk.
The excitement mounted in the final quarter but Ballyvarley had the bit between their teeth and points from Fintan Keenan, Micheal McNulty and Kevin Doyle, backed up by a killer goal from Patrick Walsh, saw Ballyvarley celebrate a worthy and exhilarating win.