Shamrocks v Ballygunner- Main Talking Points

Main Man
Sunday's game was a rarity as it saw Shamrocks in the strange position of being the underdogs but they marvelled in their surroundings and while the likes of TJ Reid, Ronan Corcoran and Eoin Cody were all vital in the success, the base was well and truly set from a stubborn defence. The full back line had it's struggles in the victories over Naas and Kilmacud Crokes but they were inspirational here. St Kierans Colllege student Killian Corcoran did an excellent marshaling job on Patrick Fitzgerald but Corcoran himself was even eclipsed by Joey Holden as the ball stuck to the experienced full back's hand any time it was hit in his direction.

Talking Point
There was a lot of talk in the build-up to the game but judging by the Shamrocks player reaction at the final whistle, it was clear that February's last gasp defeat to the same opposition left a mark and this was one victory that they badly wanted to achieve. Despite it only being a semi-final, it's a win that will still rank as one of their best ever.

Turning Point
TJ Reid’s penalty after seeing Stephen O’Keeffe deny him only minutes earlier was a massive moment in the game and even more so considering it was the only goal but equally as important was Dean Mason’s save from a Dessie Hutchinson effort that would have brought the gap back to just a point entering the final few minutes.

Highlight
Once again when the Shamrocks backs were to the wall they produced a performance from the top drawer with all their big players standing up to the mark when it was needed.

What’s Next
Shamrocks will now play Antrim and Ulster champions Dunloy in the All-Ireland Final on January 21/22.