Kanturk's Lorcan McLoughlin take aim
Cork SAFC: Kanturk 2-8 Fermoy 0-10
Kanturk diced with danger before a late scoring blitz that yielded 1-2 without reply to trim Fermoy’s sails in the McCarthy Insurance Group Co. SAFC at Glantane.
The Duhallow side maintained their unbeaten run but only just after a patchy performance yielded their third victory in the campaign and the reward of a direct passage to a semi final against Bishopstown or Carrigaline. Disappointment for Fermoy, unable to obtain any return from three games played yet they will regret a serious opportunity lost of gaining a dividend from this outing.
Entering the closing stages, Fermoy led by a point only to squander chances of adding to their tally. Left off the hook, Kanturk summoned up a burst highlighted by a Grantas Buckinanas goal before Lorcán McLoughlin added a late point.
Kanturk dominated the opening 20 minutes, Buckinanas, Alan and Ian Walsh on target for a 0-5 to 0-2 advantage.Steadily Fermoy raised their performance with points registered by Tomás Clancy and Padraig de Róiste. And the Avondhu men came close to a goal, David Lardner denied by a superb block from Kanturk ‘keeper Jordan Fullerton, Larder availing of the advantage rule to point the resultant free to tie up the contest 0-5 apiece at the interval.
On the restart, Fermoy took a first time lead, De Róiste on target. However Kanturk made a statement of intent for a goal on 38 minutes, Brian O’Sullivan laid off for Paul Walsh to net.
Fermoy failed to read the script, bringing a spirited response to stem Kanturk’s flow, three points in quick succession from O’Callaghan and Ben Twomey regained the lead 0-9 to 1-5 by the three quarter stage.
As the sides traded further points to Arlen Aherne and Alan Walsh, Fermoy held the greater share of possession, passing up two glorious opportunities to add to their tally.
That gave Kanturk a lifeline, Aidan Walsh delivered a smashing point to level matters for the fifth occasion. With the finishing line in sight, it triggered a Kanturk flourish, fittingly, their most consistent performers on the day were involved in the 59th min attack, cousins and county men Paul and Tommy Walsh combined for Buckinanas to drill home an all important goal.
In the subsequent play, Fermoy pressure went unrewarded, now Kanturk held a confidence to finish on the ascendancy and a late McLoughlin point proved the insurance score.
Scorers for Kanturk: G Bucinskas (1-2), P Walsh (1-0), Alan Walsh (0-2), L O’Neill, I Walsh (f), Aidan Walsh, L McLoughlin 0-1 each.
Scorers for Fermoy: D Lardner (0-2, 0-1 mark, 0-1f), G O’ Callaghan (0-2), P de Roiste (0-2), T Clancy, D Daly, B Twomey, A Aherne 0-1 each.
KANTURK: J Fullerton; J McLoughlin, R Walsh, B O’Sullivan; M Healy, R Walsh, L O’Neill; P Walsh, Aidan Walsh; Alan Walsh, C Clernon, L O’Keeffe; G Bucinskas, C Walsh, L McLoughlin. Sub. B Healy for L O’Keeffe (58).
FERMOY: L Coleman; S Shanahan, D O’Carroll, R O’Sullivan; P Murphy, T Clancy, A Creed; J O’Brien, S Ahene; J Molloy, P De Roiste, D Daly; B Twomey, G O’Callaghan, D Lardner.
Subs: M Brennan for J Molloy (38), D O’Flynn for J O’Brien (46 inj), A Aherne for D Daly (46).
Referee: Robert Whelan (Aghada).
Late Surge Secures Kanturk's Semi-final Spot
In a high-stakes clash of the McCarthy Insurance Group Co. SAFC, Kanturk secured a dramatic 2-8 to 0-10 victory over Fermoy, ensuring their place in the semi-final. The match was a tense affair, with both sides trading blows throughout the contest. Fermoy initially looked poised to secure a much-needed win, leading by a point as the clock ticked down. However, Kanturk showcased their resilience and tactical prowess in the dying minutes.
The turning point came in the 59th minute, with Grantas Buckinanas slotting home a crucial goal, giving Kanturk the momentum they needed. This was a game-changing moment that propelled Kanturk towards a well-deserved victory. Buckinanas’ goal was a culmination of a well-executed move involving several Kanturk players, emphasizing their teamwork and ability to capitalize on opportunities.
Fermoy's Missed Opportunities
Despite their efforts, Fermoy left the field with a sense of disappointment. They missed a number of crucial scoring opportunities, leaving the door open for Kanturk’s comeback. The loss adds to Fermoy’s woes, as they still face a relegation battle. However, there were moments of brilliance from Fermoy players like David Lardner, who displayed his versatility by scoring from both open play and frees. He was instrumental in keeping Fermoy in contention throughout the match. However, in the end, it wasn’t enough to secure a victory.
Key Players and Tactical Decisions
While the game was a close encounter, some players stood out for their exceptional performances. Buckinanas’ decisive goal was a major factor in Kanturk’s triumph. However, it was Lorcán McLoughlin’s late insurance point that truly sealed the victory. McLoughlin’s composure and ability to deliver under pressure proved crucial for Kanturk.
For Fermoy, the missed scoring opportunities were particularly frustrating. They displayed moments of brilliance and a strong team spirit, but their inability to convert those chances ultimately cost them. Their efforts throughout the match showed that they are a competitive team with the potential to make a comeback in the next round.
The match highlighted the importance of resilience, tactical adaptability, and the ability to seize opportunities. While Fermoy’s missed chances proved detrimental, Kanturk’s unwavering commitment to the game resulted in a well-deserved victory, propelling them into the semi-final stage of the competition.
