The 32 year gap was bridged on Sunday last when Wexford lifted the O’Duffy Cup.
A crowd of 35,000 thousand spectators watched as Wexford captain May Lacey lifted the O’Duffy Cup. Hopes were high in the Wexford camp during the week that the long awaited silver ware could make it’s way back down Slaney side and end the 32 famine since Wexford last won the camogie title.
On a score line of Wexford 2-7 Cork 1-8, the much talked about Cork 3-in-a-row was not to be.
The Wexford team played with spirit and determination that even the Wexford senior hurlers can aspire to ! Wexford got off to a flying start with two early goals and from then on Wexford never gave up the lead. Cork came back to within one point of the Purple and Gold but Wexford drove on to seal a memorable victory.
This victory was aided by star performances from the St Ibars girls – Kate Kelly and Michelle Hearne.
Kate had the match of her life and covered every blade of grass in Croke Park. Moving positions throughout the game caused havoc for Cork defence and they were unable to prevent her from winning ball all over. She was on the score sheet herself and set up the rest of the forwards on numerous occasions. In the end she showed true character by scoring a crucial point when the pressure was being applied by Cork.
Michelle Hearne also gave a strong performance and was able to win the ball and lay it of to fellow players. She won an amount of ball and read the game excellently to make the vital passes.
Well done also to Bridget Curran who was on the panel and made an enormous contribution in the semi final. Also congratulations to Mag Kelly and Shelly Doyle who were part of the extended panel.
Last night (Sunday) the girls enjoyed the after match banquet in the Stillorgan Park Hotel.