Mayobridge pipped Cumann Pheadair Naofa, Warrenpoint in an exciting Down U-21 Football Final by 2-10 to 1-9, played at Burren on Sunday 11 December 2016 in dry weather conditions to win the inaugural Patrick Dinsmore Memorial Cup.
The turning point of the game was perhaps when Warrenpoint player Sean Gallagher received a red card after fifteen minutes, to leave Mayobridge with an extra man for the remainder of the game.
Following three points from Donagh McAleenan, Warrenpoint led by 0-3 to 0-2, before Mayobridge scored a goal to give them a two point lead. Down to fourteen men, the ‘Point team struggled and Mayobridge added three points without reply, before a further point from Donagh McAleenan, left the half-time score, Warrenpoint 0-4 Mayobridge 1-5.
Warrenpoint started the second half strong and following a point from Donagh McAleenan, and a good goal from Jason Sloan the teams were level after 35 minutes. Cumann Pheadair Naofa will woe a few missed chances at this stage of the game to take the lead. Mayobridge reclaimed the lead with two points and a well taken goal by Corey Quinn.
Despite valiant efforts, the Warrenpoint team, just came up short, and Mayobridge were worthy champions.
There were strong Warrenpoint performances from Donagh McAleenan, who scored 9 points and was a constant thorn in the Mayobridge defence despite having at least two markers and sometimes three markers, Cormac McCartan, Paddy Murdock, Adam Lynch and Ruairi McGivern while Mayobridge had outstanding performances from midfielder CJ Barr and full forward Corey Quinn.
Cumann Pheadair Naofa would like to express sincere thanks and gratitude to the club U-21 Football team management and players for their efforts all year and we look to 2017 with optimism.
