Fine victory for talented Westmeath U16 camogie side
Leinster U16 'C' camogie final: Westmeath 3-11, Kildare 0-12
Westmeath secured Leinster U16 ‘C’ camogie honours with an eight-point victory over Kildare in the final played at James Stephens GAA grounds in Kilkenny on Saturday April 11.
Drumraney club star Grace Reilly delivered a Player of the Match performance, finishing with 1-3 as Westmeath claimed silverware following a strong display. Despite facing a stern challenge, particularly from Kildare’s Erin McGuinness, whose three goals kept her side in contention, the Lake County ladies had enough to see out the win and bring home the title, in what was a fine achievement .
Grace Reilly opened the scoring for Westmeath, but Kildare responded through Erin McGuinness and Bella Keating, who combined for five points in succession. Amy Beggan then added to Kildare’s tally before further scores followed, but Westmeath managed to keep McGuinness in check as the half progressed. The Kildare player remained a constant threat, while Ellen Carey Weir was assigned to mark her and matched her pace and physicality impressively.
As Westmeath pushed forward, their attackers found their range, with Reilly raising a second goal in the closing stages of the half. However, Kildare struck for a goal of their own just before the break to leave the sides level. At the interval, it was the Lilywhites who narrowly led by 0-9 to 2-2.
Westmeath stepped it up after the restart. Goalkeeper Lily Tyrrell was called into action early in the second half and produced key saves to deny McGuinness. The Raharney netminder remained composed throughout, ensuring Kildare were kept at bay despite sustained pressure.
Grace Reilly again proved influential, adding further scores as Westmeath edged in front. The introduction of substitute Alesha Kennedy also made an impact, contributing to the attacking threat. Amy Beggan’s frees and a point from play helped maintain momentum, while Niamh Briody added a crucial goal to strengthen their position.
Further scores from Alesha Kennedy and others ensured Westmeath stayed in control. At the back, Laura Tansey impressed at full-back, keeping Kildare out, while Ellen Carey Weir, Skye McCormack, Alannah Burke and Séana Williams all contributed with tireless work to ensure the defence held firm.
Westmeath continued to apply pressure and refused to yield, with Reilly adding to her tally and helping to extend the lead. Their persistence paid off as they pulled clear in the closing stages to secure a deserved victory and claim the Leinster title.
Afterwards. Leinster Camogie chairman Martin Quilty presented the cup to Skye McCormack and Muireann Lawlor.
Following this success, Westmeath will take on Armagh in the All-Ireland semi-final on Sunday, April 19, in Dunganny at 1pm.
Westmeath: Lily Tyrrell; Laura Tansey, Clodagh Gallagher, Séana Williams; Maisie Daly, Skye McCormack, Orla Egerton; Muireann Lawlor (0-3), Alannah Burke; Ellen Carey Weir, Amy Beggan (1-3), Saoirse Connaughton; Niamh Briody (1–0), Grace Reilly (1-3), Sionainn McCormack. Subs: Aideen Kavanagh, Arwen Briody, Caoilfhinn Bray, Ellie O’Donnell, Amelia McCabe, Aoibheann Kelly, Emily Farrelly, Sarah Hannify, Alesha Kennedy (0-2).
Kildare: Olivia Warren, Elin Fox, Aoife Lynch, Emily Callanan, Orla Neville, Megan O’Donovan, Saoirse Villing, Ava Cummins, Niamh O’Rourke, Emma Monahan, Erin McGuinness, Sophie Heffernan, Bella Keating, Aisling Quinn, Saoirse Harte. Subs: Sarah Funn, Aisling Duffy, Síofra Conaty, Ríona Flynn, Saoirse Madden, Abby Aherne, Faye McCarthy, Aoife Hayes, Eloise McConn.
Referee: Martin Quigley (Wexford).