Rathgormack secure historic fourth Waterford title
Rathgormack triumphed over The Nire to capture their fourth consecutive Waterford Senior Football Championship. The decisive victory at Fraher Field underlines their dominance, setting up a Munster clash with Clare’s Eire Og Inis next month.
Rathgormack have cemented their place in Waterford football history, claiming the Senior Football Championship title for an unprecedented fourth year running. Under the guidance of coach Kenny Hassett, they overcame The Nire by nine points in a commanding display at Fraher Field.
The match began with The Nire taking an early lead against a strong breeze, thanks to scores from Dylan Guiry and Conor Gleeson. However, Rathgormack quickly turned the tide as Jason Curry’s precision frees and exceptional two-pointer put them ahead. Stephen Curry and Reece O’Mahony each netted vital goals, while Francis Roche and Adam Murray contributed crucial points to extend the lead. By half-time, Rathgormack led 1-9 to 0-5.
Despite The Nire's spirited efforts in the second half, including several frees from Aaron Ryan and near misses, Rathgormack maintained control. A crucial block by Thomas O’Gorman and sharp point scoring kept their opponents at bay. In stoppage time, a swift counter-attack saw Stephen Curry assist Reece O’Mahony for the clinching goal, sealing a well-deserved victory. Rathgormack now prepare to face Clare champions Eire Og Inis in Munster on 8 November, aiming to build on their provincial ambitions.
Rathgormack scorers included Jason Curry (0-5, 3 frees, 1 two-pointer), Francis Roche (0-4), Stephen Curry (1-0), Reece O’Mahony (1-0), Adam Murray (0-2, 1 two-pointer), Peter Walsh (0-1), and Michael Curry (0-1). The Nire’s key contributors were Aaron Ryan (0-4, 3 frees), Dermot Ryan (0-2, 1 free), Dylan Guiry, Conor Gleeson, Michael O’Sullivan, and Chris Ryan (0-1 each).
Line-ups saw Rathgormack fielding players like Padraig Hunt, Liam Mulligan, Sean Hahessy, Glen Power, and Jason Curry, with impactful substitutions including Reece O’Mahony and Thomas Skehan. The Nire featured Stephen Ryan, Paddy Spelman, Thomas O’Gorman, Dylan Guiry, and Aaron Ryan, deploying substitutes such as Chris Ryan and Jamie Barron. The match was officiated by referee Killian O’Sullivan from Cappoquin.