BREADY YOUNG GUNS MISS OUT IN U-17 GIRLS FINAL

There was disappointment for Bready’s Under-17 Girls side who were beaten in the All-Ireland Final earlier this week by a very strong Clontarf. The Castle Avenue side are a well-drilled all-conquering outfit who have been the dominant force throughout their progression through the age-groups over the past six years – Monday’s win their fourth at this level.

Clontarf had been given a real scare in the semi-final, prevailing by just one run against Lisburn – a hat-trick of run outs securing their place in the Final against Bready. Genevieve Morrissey scored a half century, while Jodie Spence claimed four wickets as Clontarf made 144. Bready’s reply started badly and they never really recovered as they were bowled out for 95.

Bready Head Coach Trevor Hamilton wasn’t too downbeat after the loss, reflecting on the positive aspects of what has been an excellent year for the club.

“The final was always going to be a tough test for the girls against a Clontarf squad who had won four All-Ireland titles together,” said Hamilton. “However, the girls have shown the progress they’ve made since 2022 when we last played Clontarf. In the field Clontarf knew they were in a game but their experience with the ball proved the difference.

“Our girls and women’s section have had a great season, with the roll of honour reading double success for the U15, U17, and 2nd XI sides, as well as a runner-up placing for the Under 11 and our first XI crowned Premiership champions.

“We’ve a lot of positives to take from 2025 and certainly we can look forward to 2026 with great optimism.”