Cup joy for St Joseph’s

St Joseph’s captured a convincing 10 point win over Cuchullian’s Dunloy, to secure the title in the Antrim Intermediate Football Final.

The local side, playing in their first senior final for 23 years, travelled more in hope than expectation, with Cuchullian’s having 16 straight wins in their league and cup run, going into the final.

St Joseph’s, meanwhile, had had a poor league run, but came good in the Cup with wins against Aghagallon, Moneyglass and Rasharkin.

A large number of supporters turned out for the match at the excellent Creggan Kickham’s pitch.

A St Joseph’s spokesperson said there was “relief and jubilation” for the Glenavy side at the final whistle.

“When referee Brendan Toland blew the full time whistle there were a sense of relief and jubilation for the Orangemen after so many disappointments,” they commented.

“On the day Glenavy looked the stronger team throughout the pitch, and put in a great team effort for the win.

“When the dust has settled Cuchullian’s will look back on very a good season with their side gaining promotion to Division Two and reaching the intermediate final.

“On occasions like this players are very appreciative of the effort put in by the team management. Francie Doone, Gerard Doherty, Kieran O’Neill and Conor McCumskey have put in trojan work to prepare their charges, with success coming on Saturday.”

It was the icing on the cake after a very successful year for the club, with the Under 12’s winning their league and success for the U14’s, U16’s and Minor’s.

There was a party at the club on Saturday night as everyone involved at the club celebrated their fine win.

On their Twitter page, Antrim GAA said: “Congratulations to @GlenavyGAA winning the @AontroimGAA IFC. Thanks to @KickhamsCreggan for excellent facilities.”

The club’s longest serving player Martin Clenaghan, said on Twitter as he was pictured with the silverware: “18 yrs playing senior football, finally got one of these! @GlenavyGAA @ClubAontroma #champions2015.”