Longford SHC Final: Clonguish Gaels captain Gregg reflects on a hard fought battle in title triumph

The No. 11 played his part, scoring 1-2 and setting up the other Clonguish Gaels goal. He admits that his side were “happy to hold on” and retain their title in the end.

“It was a hard fought battle. We did well in the first half and got a bit of a lead. But we knew Slashers would come back,” he stated.

Clonguish certainly meant business from the off in this final. They attacked early and often and Gregg said this was part of the plan.

“Our gameplan was to attack in the first 10 minutes. We were then trying to stay on top and keep a gap between ourselves and Slashers,” he explained.

Slashers did come back in the third quarter, with Reuben Murray leading the revival, sending over three frees in that period.

How Clonguish handled this was crucial. There was also rain to contend with. Cometh the hour, cometh two vastly experienced players in the Green and White.

One, Bart Hanley, is a native of Co. Limerick, but he is now very much part of Clonguish. The other, Joe O’Brien, has been the club’s leading player for two decades.

“Joe and Bart both put over points. The lads have been around the block. They owe Clonguish nothing. When you have players of that calibre, it brings everyone else up a notch,” Gregg stated.

“They are not finished yet!” Gregg added.

Another big presence on the day was dual player and club secretary Gerry Moore, who received the Man of the Match award.

Gregg was full of praise for Moore’s contribution to Clonguish hurling.

“Gerry is phenomenal. He is a warrior. He is the beating heart of this team and a Clonguish man through and through.” 

Another vastly experienced Clonguish player unfortunately could not line out, due to injury. Paul Barden jnr has been another stalwart of the Green and White.

“Paul is another real leader, like Gerry. He contributes a lot both on and off the field. We were all disappointed when he got injured. We had to do it for him, because he would do it for us,” Gregg stated.

The two youngest players, Dan Crossan and Matthew Flynn, also contributed to this Clonguish success. Stephen sees them and other young players making for a “bright future.”

“There is a resurgence in Clonguish hurling. There has been an investment in the future and there is lots going on.

“The Duignan Cup stays in Clonguish for another year. That will do us for now,” concluded  the proud Clonguish Gaels captain.