A lovely Summer’s evening, Saturday 29th June, in Castleisland resulted in a thrilling draw between Ballymac and Castleisland Desmonds on a scoreline that finished 3-11 apiece.
The visiting side started in fine form with some well worked team scores to leave them 3 points to 1 up after just a few minutes of play. Desmonds soon steadied themselves and with the aid of a strong breeze worked their way back into the game. A flurry of scores including a penalty left Desmonds 1-6 to 0-4 in front but a penalty just before the break left just 2 points between the sides, 1-6 to 1-4 in Desmonds favour.
A Desmonds goal just after the break left it with 5 points in the difference and a huge uphill challenge for Ballymac. However, the game was about to turn on its head. Desmonds were reduced to 14 men after two quick yellow card offences and Ballymac scored 2 goals in the space of a minute to leave them a point ahead. Some brilliant defending, smart use of the extra man and good kick passing opened a three point gap before a marvelous team effort by Desomnds resulted in an equalizing goal.
Again Ballymac responded in kind, kicking 3 of the next 4 points to leave them ahead by two entering injury time.
However, 2 late Desmonds frees tied the game, the latter being a wonder free by their goalkeeper worthy of tying any game. A magnificent match which truly neither team deserved to lose.
Castleisland Desmonds 3-11 Ballymac 3-11.