Clonkill pushed Ballyboden all the way at Parnell Park on an emotional night for the club.
The Leinster club championship quarter-final tie was due to take place last weekend, but was postponed for 48 hours due to a bereavement in the community.
Westmeath hurling champions Clonkill elected to play the game, following the untimely passing of three-year-old Annabel Loughlin, daughter of club stalwart Enda.
#whatalovelytouch @Bodengaa @DubGAAOfficial ????? pic.twitter.com/J4imcoqNHt
‘Boden’ entered the tie as hot favourites, after beating reigning All-Ireland champions Cuala en route to a seventh county title. With a spot against Coolderry in the provincial semi-final on offer, most anticipated the southside outfit would progress with ease.
However, Clonkill put up a titanic challenge, and pushed St Enda’s all the way as it finished 1-17 apiece at full-time. While Ballyboden pulled away in extra-time to win 2-25 to 2-19, the Westmeath side won widespread plaudits, and their victors provided a guard of honour at the end of the tie as a sign of respect for playing the game under such difficult circumstances.
The match is being hailed for the community spirit on show within the GAA, and Clonkill manager Kevin O’Brien wished Ballyboden all the best moving forward.
Very proud to manage a great group of men in the @Clonkillhurling senior team. Sorry we didn't get the job done. Thanks to everyone for their support. I hope we did Enda and his family proud. Best of luck to @Bodengaa. Rest in peace Annabel.
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