Killina recorded a very impressive 3-0 win over Munster Champions St Peters Passage West from Cork on Tuesday last February 8th. This win qualified the girls for the U17 National final, their second National final in two years having won the U15 title last year.
Played on the 3G pitch at Cahir Park Co. Tipperary, the opening exchanges were very tight, especially around a congested midfield area. However due to excellent defensive work from Ava Dolan and Emma Hand, the Killina girls gradually made their way into the match, creating some good chances which the superb Passage West keeper was able to keep out. With the sides deadlocked approaching half-time, a moment of brilliance from Megan Daly and Becky Watkins setup Saroah Doyle who brilliantly finished the ball to the Passage West net.
As expected the Cork girls started the second half in blistering fashion and were very unlucky not to be level after 20 minutes. However an excellent counter attacking move resulted in the ball falling to Becky Watkins who calmly slotted the ball past the goalkeeper to put Killina 2-0 up. With 5 minutes to go center back Emma Flaherty made a move up the field and played a defence cutting pass to Ava Dolan, who in turn fed Megan Daly to finish to the net.
The final whistle was greeted with great excitement by the Killina team and especially the parents who made the long journey to cheer on the girls. To reach a second National final in two years is a remarkable achievement for this talented group of athletes.
The final is fixed for Wednesday February 27. Venue and time to be confirmed.