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.
9. Sarah Frawley and Meave Lenihan braving the rough conditions at Mick Neville Park
Sarah Frawley and Meave Lenihan braving the rough conditions at Mick Neville Park | Brendan Gleeson
10. Billy, Patricia and Adam Carey watching Knockaderry versus Bruree
Billy, Patricia and Adam Carey watching Knockaderry versus Bruree | Brendan Gleeson
11. Ellen and Clodagh Williams supporting Bruree in their final against Knockaderry
Ellen and Clodagh Williams supporting Bruree in their final against Knockaderry | Brendan Gleeson
12. Michael Lane, Bruree and Liam Molyneaux, Knockaderry clashing during the Intermediate Hurling Final
Michael Lane, Bruree and Liam Molyneaux, Knockaderry clashing during the Intermediate Hurling Final | Brendan Gleeson