Tipperary school advances to first ever Munster under-19 tennis final
The team from St Ailbe's Secondary school in Tipperary Town will head to the final
A Tipperary school have advanced to the under-19 Munster Tennis Final, having taken part in their first ever semi-final.
The team from St Ailbe's Secondary school in Tipperary Town will head to the final, after running up against a team from Kinsale Community College in Cork.
The tournament was hosted as Rosanna Tennis Club in Tipperary Town, and saw the Tipperary team clinch a spot in the final on a 6-2 scoreline.
"St Ailbe’s got off to a flying start with Darragh Healy and Jack Aherne McInerney putting in commanding performances to take their opening two matches with ease.
"Their strong start gave the team an early cushion – and even allowed the pair to enjoy a well-deserved Galtee Burger, generously sponsored by Brendan and Patricia Healy, the renowned Bansha butchers," the school wrote on social media.
"However, it wasn’t all plain sailing. A gutsy fightback from Kinsale saw them take the third match and edge the forth in a nail-biting tie-breaker, narrowly winning 11-9 despite a valiant display from the St Ailbe's side of Evan Ryan and Jack Halligan.
"With the score level and everything to play for, the pressure fell on a new pairing – Darragh Healy teaming up this time with Jack Halligan.
"The duo rose to the occasion in style, taking control of the decisive super set and cruising to a 6-2 win, sending the St Ailbe’s supporters into celebration," the school said.
"A heartfelt thank you goes to the teachers, students, parents, and grandparents who made the trip to Rosanna to support the team. A special mention must also go to the Rosanna Tennis Club members who came out in force to cheer on the boys – your support made all the difference," the post added.