Intermediate Camogie Leinster Semi Final

Dublin v Carlow 

At throw in Carlow had the aid of a decent breeze at their back. One change as per the Dublin programme as Ruby Davis started at left half forward. Carlow registered the first scores after 2 minutes but quickly cancelled out by Dublin’s Eile O’Ceallaigh. In the 10th minute we saw the first shot on goal but the Dublin goalie saved well reaching to her right, however Carlow managed to grab a point in this phase. It was now Dublin's turn to threaten the Carlow goal. The sliotar was stolen off the Carlow goalie as she was breaking out of a tackle. Quick reactions by O’Ceallaigh meant the sliotar hit the back of the net and Dublin hit the front. 

The game was now in full flow and a powerful run from Carlow’s impressive No 10 blasted the ball to the Dublin goal. Almost immediately Dublin reached the far end and hit right back as Aoibhinn Stokes flicked the ball to the net to level the scores. The teams matched each other over the remaining minutes. By half time the scores were level at Dublin 2-06 to Carlow 1-09

Not surprisingly these two teams matched each other in the first few minutes of the second half with scores coming from a range of scorers. Dublin’s Sinead O’Hanlon, O’Ceallaigh and Ruby Wood all scored leaving Dublin 1pt ahead after 10 minutes. Dublin introduced 2 subs with Maedhbh Hicks coming on for Davis and Hannah Gibbs on for Róisín Ní Drisceoil

14 minutes in-drama in the Dublin goalmouth as Carlow did everything but get the ball across the line. It was only strong defending that saved Dublin. In the final quarter as the intensity increased the scoring rate seemed to drop but that did not take from the enjoyment. With time winding, Carlow edged in front. Dublin pushed hard but could not find the space to get the shot away and then the sucker blow - Carlow broke from mid field and got their insurance point which meant Dublin would need a goal to win. Unfortunately the clock was not kind and despite 4 minutes of injury time Carlow held out to claim the victory. 

Massive praise to both panels who contributed to a very entertaining game. Next up for Dublin will be the U23 All Ireland Championship next month.