Ursuline Thurles edge Presentation to reach Munster senior A camogie semi final
Win in Castleiney sets up a Munster semi final against Coachford next Tuesday
Ursuline Thurles have booked their place in the Munster senior A schools camogie semi final, prevailing in a tightly fought playoff against familiar rivals Presentation Thurles.
The meeting between two schools with a long standing camogie rivalry drew considerable local interest and produced a contest that never fully opened up but remained absorbing throughout.
Both sides travelled to Castleiney for the fixture, a neutral venue for a match that carried clear knockout stakes. Presentation were dealt an early setback when a player was sent off in the first half.
The dismissal shifted the balance of the game and forced the Pres to adopt a more conservative approach, while Ursuline were left to work patiently for scores in what proved to be a low margin encounter.
Clear scoring chances were limited and the match evolved into a test of discipline and accuracy. Ursuline kept their composure and did just enough to stay in front, eventually claiming a 0-08 to 0-06 victory.
The narrow margin reflected the nature of the hour, with both defences exerting strong control.
The result sends Ursuline into the last four of the competition and sets up a semi final meeting with Cork side Coachford next Tuesday December 9.
The stakes will rise once more, although Ursuline will take encouragement from navigating a difficult playoff and demonstrating the resilience required for the latter stages of the provincial championship.