Limerick came from the proverbial next parish to keep alive their hopes of annexing the Gala All-Ireland Senior B Camogie Championship 2007.

CALM AMIDST THE STORM: Dymphna O'Brien, Limerick, on the run against Cork during the All Ireland Gala Camogie Final at Limerick Gaelic Grounds last Sunday. Picture: Keith Wiseman

In an awesome drive for the line, Ciaran Carey’s magnificent troops came from points adrift in stoppage time to rescue a dramatic draw with Cork at the Gaelic Grounds – the replay is likely to go ahead at a Leeside venue next weekend. 

The recovery began in sensational fashion when captain Aoife Sheehan walloped home a goal from a penalty spot and not long afterwards Ahane’s Niamh Mulcahy – a granddaughter of the legendary John Mackey – landed an outrageous free from half-way.  On the immediate restart, the referee blew for a last time to ensure that these two great rivals must meet for a third time this season – earlier in the year, Limerick emerged comfortable winners in the league final.

Interestingly, Mulcahy – as multi-talented sportsperson as there is around – forfeited her place with the Republic of Ireland U19 soccer squad to take her place on the starting blocks at the weekend.  “Her commitment, and that of all the other girls, knows no bounds,” remarked manager Carey.  “Their fightback was of fairytale proportions and lets now hope the job can be finished off the next day.”

Early scores through O’Brien, Rose Collins and Ladies Football All-Star Dympna O’Brien argued well for Limerick, but Cork were able to keep their enthusiastic opposition at bay and a goal five minutes from time courtesy of Lynda Doran appeared to have brought the curtain down on the home challenge.  Limerick, however, had different ideas and swooped late-on to force another outing with the reigning champions.

It’s been 11 years since Limerick last tasted success in the championship environment at national level.  It certainly won’t be easy, anything but, to achieve a positive result in the replay – it’s still highly possible, however, especially with the impressive battling qualities of this rejuvenated Limerick team.

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