Minor A camogie glory for Tullamore girls

Tullamore 3-07, St Cillian's-Lusmagh 1-06

Tullamore Camogie Club rounded off a remarkable 2025 season in style, capturing the Minor A Championship title with a commanding victory over St Cillian's-Lusmagh on a bitterly cold Saturday afternoon at Kilcormac GAA Grounds. Having last won this title in 2014, this is a huge victory for Tullamore, who also secured the U14A title this year.

Captain Sarah O'Rourke led her side to victory in what proved to be a dominant display from start to finish, as Tullamore avenged their U16 semi-final defeat to the same opponents when they last met. The final scoreline of 3-07 to 1-06 reflected Tullamore's superiority throughout the contest, though scores were at a premium in the challenging weather conditions.

The foundation for victory was laid in the middle of the park, where Polly Duffy and Leah Byrne won the midfield battle convincingly. Their tireless work rate and ability to control proceedings gave Tullamore the edge, with both players working incessantly to win possession and drive their team forward.

At the back, full-back Ellie Lawlor anchored a resolute defensive unit, superbly supported by Ana Doyle and Alice Walsh. The Tullamore rearguard made life difficult for St Cillian's throughout, with players hooking, blocking and harrying their opponents at every opportunity. Such was their work rate across the field that at times it appeared Tullamore had extra players on the pitch.

Rachel Cunningham opened the scoring with a free, followed quickly by Emma Francis with the game's first goal for Tullamore, setting the tone for what was to come. Grace Waters and Katie Fogarty also found their range from play in the opening half, with Tullamore establishing a slender 1-04 to 0-05 interval lead. All of St Cillian's-Lusmaghs' scores came from Siofra Ginty, who registered just one point from play, with the remainder of her tally coming from frees.

The second half saw Tullamore seize control of the contest. Katie Fogarty proved to be Tullamore's most dangerous attacker, finishing with an impressive 1-02, all from play. Niamh Hughes and Rachel Cunningham also contributed, with Cunningham finishing with 0-03, including some crucial frees.

The decisive score came from Grace Waters, whose superb goal effectively put the result beyond doubt and sealed Tullamore's triumph. Despite the difficult conditions, which made scoring opportunities hard to come by, Tullamore's clinical finishing in front of goal proved the difference.

Player of the match Jennifer Rigney delivered an excellent all-round performance, capping off an outstanding year for this talented group of players. The Tullamore squad has made significant strides throughout 2025, with several players establishing themselves on both the Senior and Junior teams. The group also secured victories in both the Senior and Junior Cup competitions earlier in the year, demonstrating their quality across multiple grades.

Having overcome Drumcullen in the semi-final, Tullamore knew they faced a stern test against St Cillians Lusmagh, who had defeated Kilcormac/Killoughey in their semi-final. However, the Tullamore girls rose to the occasion magnificently, delivering a complete team performance in which every player contributed to the victory.

Referee John McDonald from Edenderry maintained good control throughout the contest, while the pitch at Kilcormac GAA Grounds was in excellent condition despite the challenging weather.

This Minor A title marks the culmination of a fantastic year for Tullamore Camogie. It serves as a fitting reward for the dedication and commitment shown by players and management alike. For coach and selector Lisa Gorman, who was part of Tullamore's 2014 Minor A winning team, it was particularly special to be involved in both triumphs. The future looks bright for camogie in Tullamore, with the club contesting A finals at U13, U14, U15, U16, and now Minor level in 2025. This group of talented young players has already proven they can compete at the highest levels.

SEE NEXT: Three in a row as Tullamore once again find a way to win and gutted Ferbane overpowered late on

Tullamore Camogie: Aoife Kavanagh, Alice Walsh, Ellie Lawlor, Ana Doyle, Emily Walsh, Sarah O'Rourke (Capt), Jennifer Rigney, Polly Duffy, Leah Byrne, Rachel Cunningham (0-03), Niamh Hughes (0-01), Katie Fogarty (1-02), Grace Waters (1-01), Emma Francis (1-00), Lily Marie Dolan, Aoife O'Brien, Meabh McDonagh, Katie McDermott, Anna Maunsell, Grace Scully, Katie Hannon, Anna McGreal (inj).

Management: Claire Cantwell, Lisa Gorman, Dermot Cunningham, Leonard Deane, Padraig Hannon.