Mary I prove too strong for spirited Trinity side in Fitzgibbon Cup

Goals from Corry cousins Brian and Michael as well as another from Corkman Tim O’Mahony would prove to be the difference as Mary I got their Fitzgibbon Cup hopes back on track against Trinity yesterday in UL winning out on a scoreline of 3-20 to 3-12.

In wintery conditions on the 4G pitch in UL, both sides started well exchanging scores. Brian Corry opened Mary I’s goalscoring account on 8 minutes after lovely buildup play. Trinity replied accordingly with Fionn O’Riain Bron keeping the score ticking over for the Dublin side. He would finish with a personal tally of 0-9 from play and placed balls.

With Mary I failing to fully capitalise on their goal, there were just five points separating the sides at the half with the Limerick college holding a 1-7 to 0-5 lead. In the absence of Aaron Gillane, Clonlara’s Micheal O’Loughlin took over free taking duties and had five points at the break.

The champions came flying out of the traps in the second half and within ten minutes had opened up a 1-13 to 0-7 points lead, with Cian Lynch leading the side from wing-forward. And despite the fact that Mary I were without any of last years six starting defenders, the defence was coping well with the lively Trinity forwards.

Yet creaks in the back began to show in the final quarter of an hour as Trinity raised three green flags to give the Jamie Wall managed side plenty to think about. Goals from O’Mahony and Corry eased the nerves for the champions but they will be aware there is much to do before next weeks clash against NUIG.

Mary I travel to Galway next Thursday knowing that a win is a must if they are to advance to the knockout stages of the competition.