Banner Ladies 4 - 2 West Clare Gaels 2 - 3

For all the good weather we have had recently the heavens opened as soon as referee Lorraine Kelly threw in the ball in this very entertaining and competitive U-12 first round championship match. As the thunder rolled in the distance the girls from Ennis and from Kilkee and the Loop Peninsula paid scant regard to the elements to serve up a thrilling encounter.

This high quality game flowed from end to end with the Gaels taking early advantage only for the town side to fight back to leave the minimum between the sides at half time with the Gaels in front on a 2-2 to 2-1 advantage.

The Banner Ladies dominated the early exchanges of the second half and scored 2-1 before the Gaels got back in the game. The final five minutes was all about the West Clare team but try as they may they could not break down the town side's defence. While they added a very good point, the goal they so badly needed never materialised and they had to give way to the Banner Ladies girls on the evening.

As this is still the round robin stage of the tournament expect both teams to be in contention come the final stages. A final appearance between these teams is a distinct possibility and it would be a mouth watering prospect. Well done to both teams for braving the elements and producing such a competitive and sporting game that was excellently refereed by Clare county star Lorraine Kelly.