Rockwell College achieve honours as they claim Tipperary Schools Under 19 football title
ROCKWELL COLLEGE 1-9 PRES BALLINGARRY 1-8
Rockwell College claimed a fantastic victory in the U19 B County Football Final, defeating Pres Ballingarry at Dr. Morris Park, Thurles, on Friday, 21st March.
Rockwell started strong, but early missed opportunities meant they didn’t build a bigger lead by halftime. They were up 1-7 to 0-2 at the break. Dermot McCarthy contributed 1-2, Paul Maher added 0-1, Kevin Barry scored 0-3, and Eoin O’Connell chipped in with 0-1.
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Throughout the match, Rockwell displayed excellent teamwork, with Lucas Sheil and Greg Nugent dominant in midfield, while Harry O’Keeffe controlled the tempo of the game from centre-forward.
In the second half, Pres Ballingarry mounted a strong comeback. However, Conor O’Gorman stood firm in defence, with the full-back line of Cian McGrath, Cormac McInerney, and Shane O’Brien shutting down key goal-scoring chances.
Up front, Cathal O’Gorman worked tirelessly to break up Ballingarry’s attacks, while wing backs Daniel Charles and David O’Brien absorbed mounting pressure.
As the intensity of the game increased, Rockwell’s substitutes—Danny Morris, Aidan Russell, Mark Ryan, Ning Brennan, and Jack Owens—helped steady the team. Paul Maher and Dermot McCarthy contributed crucial points in the second half.
With the final kick of the game, Ballingarry scored an unstoppable goal from a free, leaving goalkeeper Mathew Buckley with no chance. The final whistle blew moments later, sealing a hard-fought one-point victory for Rockwell.
A massive thank you to the players, who showed incredible dedication, skill, and teamwork throughout the season. Their hard work and commitment were evident in every match, culminating in this well-deserved victory.
The team’s determination and spirit were key to their success, and they truly embodied the values of Rockwell College.