Defending champions UCC defat Mary I in titanic Fitzgibbon Cup opener

A Shane Barrett goal just after the restart proved the difference as UCC beat Mary I 1-21 to 0-19 in the opening round of the Fitzgibbon Cup today.

Na Piarsaigh man Will Henn had the first scores of the day from frees for UCC with the impressive Mark Kehoe making it 0-0 to 0-3 three early on.

But four Devon Ryan frees from the Limerick college had it 0-4 to 0-5 at the first water break.

An inspirational score from Diarmuid Ryan had the teacher training college level before Colin O’Brien gave them their first lead of the day.

But Henn remained perfect from placed balls to regain the advantage for the Cork students.

But there was time for Devon Ryan to level with the final act of an absorbing first half, 0-10 apiece.

Barrett’s intervention was the decisive factor as UCC didn’t relinquish the lead from here.

His goal was added to by a Henn free. A magnificent Jason Gillane point had Mary I within one after 41 but Ronan Connolly replies for UCC.

That had them two clear at the final Waterbreak but another from Gillane brought the Limerick side back to 1-14 to 0-16 with seven to play.

But a trio of scores from substitute Padraig Power pulled UCC clear for the win.

NUIG and UCD meet in the groups other game tonight with Mary I travelling to Galway next week.