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.
5. Bruree's Cian McDonagh in possession against Knockaderry
Bruree's Cian McDonagh in possession against Knockaderry | Brendan Gleeson
6. Aileen and Aoife Downes with Patrick Downes watching Knockaderry versus Bruree
Aileen and Aoife Downes with Patrick Downes watching Knockaderry versus Bruree | Brendan Gleeson
7. John Deady, James Howard with Zane and Philip Howard watching Knockaderry versus Bruree
John Deady, James Howard with Zane and Philip Howard watching Knockaderry versus Bruree | Brendan Gleeson
8. Aine and Mary O'Connor, Teresa and Mark Clarke , James Broderick and Mike O'Connor watching the Intermediate Hurling final
Aine and Mary O'Connor, Teresa and Mark Clarke , James Broderick and Mike O'Connor watching the Intermediate Hurling final | Brendan Gleeson