LATE points from Kieran Storin and the outstanding Mike Molloy saw Knockaderry collect the Nick Grene Sportsgrounds Intermediate Hurling Championship title for the first time in their history, as they wrestled ahead of Bruree for a 1-16 to 0-17 win at Mick Neville Park on Saturday evening.
Coming into the game as underdogs in the eyes of many, Knockaderry have now added intermediate honours to the Premier Junior crown won 12 months ago, and with it, return to the Premier Intermediate grade.
For Bruree, it is a gut-wrenching third final loss in a row, an unwanted record, which was also the fate of Glenroe (1975-1977) and Croagh-Kilfinny (2021-2023). Simply put, they failed to build enough of an interval lead, backed by a gale force breeze at Mick Neville Park.
Photographer Brendan Gleeson was on hand in Rathkeale to capture all the colour and action of the celebrations.
1. Brian Sexton trying to win possession for Bruree against Knockaderry
Brian Sexton trying to win possession for Bruree against Knockaderry | Brendan Gleeson
2. Michael Lane in possession for Bruree against Knockaderry's Jack Molloy
Michael Lane in possession for Bruree against Knockaderry's Jack Molloy | Brendan Gleeson
3. Sam Williams and Cian McDonagh, Bruree clashing with Jack Molloy, Knockaderry
Sam Williams and Cian McDonagh, Bruree clashing with Jack Molloy, Knockaderry | Brendan Gleeson
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4. Knockaderry celebrating winning the Intermediate Hurling Championship
Knockaderry celebrating winning the Intermediate Hurling Championship | Brendan Gleeson