The Gers Junior team landed only their second-ever Junior 2A championship title on Friday night with a determined display against Cooley Kickhams in Darver.

From the throw-in, the players were on the front foot and would never be behind in a game they largely dictated against their gallant opponents. They defended resolutely and attacked with purpose and at pace creating several scoring chances, racing into a four-point to one lead with just over 15 minutes on the clock.

However, that lead would be reduced with Cooley getting a quick brace of scores to level things up with 20 or so gone. The Geraldines' response to the setback was a positive one and they would outscore the opposition by three points to one, and take a two-point lead into the halftime break.

The Geraldines extended their lead at the start of the second half by a further 2 points but would be pegged back by a Cooley rally who would reduce it to just two points again with 15 minutes gone. But the response was composed and clinical, with three points added in as many minutes to ensure it was a two-score game going down the final stretch.

Each side would add a further point in the closing stages with the Geraldines four-point winners at the sound of the final whistle.

It was a great squad effort complimented by a vibrant blend of youth vitality and seasoned player experience. In total 30 players were used during the championship campaign with every single one contributing to the championship success.

The Geraldines squad on the day was; Darren Kearney, Paul Clarke, Nicky Mackin, Joe Conlon, Sean Thornton, Ryan Brennan, Adam Hoban, Kevin Pepper (0-02), Daragh O’Gradaigh, Eoin McDonnell (0-02), Neil Gartlan (0-02), Mark Leavy (0-02), Niall Brennan, Shane Rogers (0-05), David O’Connell (0-01), Dylan Sharkey, Conor Whyte, Darren O’Brien, Chris Reilly, Sean Gartlan, Jake Fee, Cillian Halpenny, Conor McGowan, Liam McNamare, Josh Spaight.

Injured or unavailable on the night were Des Reenan, Paddy Hoey, Francis Lynch, James Lawrence and Senan Duffy. A huge well done to you all.

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