Mitchels pass stern 'Haunis examination
Castlebar Mitchels gather in a huddle after their win over Ballyhaunis. Picture: Michael Donnelly
This game was captivating from beginning to end, with the excitement palpable throughout. It had all the hallmarks of a high-stakes championship match—intensity, skilful play mixed with errors, missed opportunities, and moments of brilliance. Goals, impressive scores, and dramatic tension defined the contest.
Ultimately, Castlebar Mitchels managed to secure their place in the quarter-finals with a crucial win over Ballyhaunis, although their victory was hard-earned.
The match's pivotal moment came with ten minutes remaining when Paddy Heneghan scored a crucial goal, propelling Castlebar from a point down to a dominant position. They outscored Ballyhaunis 1-4 to 0-1 during this decisive period, sealing their victory even though the game had been closely contested up to that point.
Under Pete Warren, Ballyhaunis began strongly, establishing a four-point lead within the first 20 minutes thanks to two long-range frees by goalkeeper Adrian Phillips and additional points from Liam Herr and Eamon Phillips. Castlebar, struggling initially, was yet to score by the 20th minute. However, they turned the tide with points from James Durcan, Donnacha McHugh, Sean Morahan, and Ethan Gibbons. The first major breakthrough came when Paddy Heneghan finished a well-worked move, scoring the game’s opening goal. Ballyhaunis responded with a point from Cormac Phillips before half-time, leaving Castlebar with a 1-4 to 0-5 lead at the break.
Castlebar came out for the second half determined to secure their quarter-final berth. They extended their lead with fine scores from Bob Tuohy and Heneghan, appearing to gain control. However, Ballyhaunis fought back, narrowing the gap to two points with efforts from Brian O’Neill and a free from Aidan Sloyan.
The momentum shifted when O’Neill scored a goal after Rory Byrne had made a superb save, with Captain John Cunnane playing a crucial role in the setup. Ballyhaunis briefly led for the first time in 20 minutes, threatening an upset. Yet, Castlebar was resolute.
With ten minutes left, John McMonagle created a critical turnover leading to Heneghan’s second goal of the game. Castlebar extended their advantage with a free from Ethan Gibbons, pushing their lead to three points. Despite Ballyhaunis’ best efforts, they managed only one more score from Phillips. Castlebar added late points from Sean Morahan and Gibbons to secure a four-point victory.
The final score might suggest a comfortable win, but Castlebar had to fight hard for the result. Ballyhaunis stayed competitive until Castlebar’s late surge. In the end, Castlebar achieved their aim of reaching the quarter-finals, while Ballyhaunis will reflect on missed opportunities but can take solace in avoiding a relegation playoff.
