Match Report by Seanán Moley
Clann Eireann 1-16 Crossmaglen 0-11
Clann Eireann made it four senior county championships in a row this afternoon in the BOX-IT Athletic Grounds. A professional performance from the Lurgan outfit was enough to keep Crossmaglen Rangers at arms length in a compelling match.
Clann Eireann got off to a flyer after just one minute. Rapid and incisive passing through the hands sent young full forward Cassie Henderson in behind the defence and the teenager made no mistake with the finish. Henderson drove the ball high into the top corner, leaving Aveen Bellew rooted to the spot in the Rangers goal.
In the minutes following the goal Cross found their footing in the game. Cross began to press up on the Clann Eireann kickout and found joy, scoring twice in quick succession from turnovers. Kellie Shields and Megan O’Callaghan were impressive in the half forward line, receiving the ball in between lines of Clann Eireann pressure and creating openings.
Star Players
At the other end Greg McGonigles side kept the scoreboard ticking over, repeatedly drawing fouls in good positions for Niamh Murray to kick from. Clodagh McCambridge was imperious in the defence, consistently getting to the ball ahead of Cross forwards. As the first half wore on Clann Eireann wrestled back control, going into the break up by five.
The second half was an exhibition in managing a game. Clann Eireann were calm in dealing with Rangers pressure, defending diligently to close down shooting chances. Catherine Lawless effectively dealt with high balls on a few occasions, but her goal was never really under real threat.
As the game drew to a close and Cross were forced to pile players forward, spaces opened up in their defence. Cassie Henderson was put through again at one stage but fired against the crossbar. Niamh Henderson and Anna Lavery took advantage of the space, leading counter attacks for their side to continue notching scores. In the end the Marie Hoye Cup goes back to Lurgan, to a club where it must be starting to feel at home.