Nov 10,2024
Mayo champions Ballina Stephenites booked their spot in the Connacht club semi-final after labouring to a six-point win over the dogged North London Shamrocks in Ruislip this afternoon.
Niall Heffernan's side, who claimed their second Mayo title in succession last month, led 0-09 to 0-04 at the break against the stubbornly defensive hosts, with county players Evan Regan, Frank Irwin and Padraig O'Hora all popping over scores.
Shamrocks, boasting a big Donegal contingent, were appearing in the Connacht club for the first time, having won their maiden London title last month against Barnet outfit St Kiernan's.
Two of the Donegal crop, Joe McGill and Ciaran Diver, contributed most of their scoring haul, keeping the Exiles competitive.
Egan began the second half by tapping over a free to nudge the lead out to six but sub Thomas Lenihan and McGill replied with a couple of scores for North London.
The gap was only four at this point but the Mayo champions eased through the gears from there, rustling up the next five points on the trot, with wing-forward Luke Doherty landing two of them.
Assured of their win, they eased off the throttle. The home side registered the last three scores of the game but the result was beyond doubt.
Ballina now face Sligo champions Coolera/Strandhill in the semi-final as they continue their push for a first Connacht title since 2007.
North London Shamrocks: G. Brody; N. McElwaine, L. Kelly, E. Flanagan; S. McMonagle, C. McGonigle, C. Diver (0-03); J. McGill (0-04, 2f), U. Boyle; D. Clarke, O. Hilley, M. Miller; M. Carroll (0-01), C. McKelvey, R. Rafferty.
Subs: T. Lenihan (0-01), J. Sweeney, E. McHugh, P. Dolan, J. Hynes
Ballina Stephenites: D. Clarke; L. Golden, P. O'Hora (0-01), D. Tighe; C. Boland, S. Callinan, L. Jordan; M. Murray (0-01), F. Irwin (0-02, 2f); L. Doherty (0-03), C. McStay, N. Feeney (0-01); E. Regan (0-05, 3f, 1m), L. Feeney, B. Collins (0-01).
Subs: D. Thornton, C. Treacy (0-1), D. O'Mahoney, R. Morrin, J. Doherty.
