Kilkenny JFC: Tullaroan put on the style late on to win county final thriller
Tullaroan 0-21 Bennettsbridge 1-12
Tullaroan were crowned JJ Kavanagh & Sons Junior Football champions on Thursday evening, beating Bennettsbridge after extra-time in a competitive Larchfield showdown.
The champions didn't have it all their own way and trailed for much of the opening half, (0-5 to 0-2 after 15 minutes) and (0-7 to 0-4 at half-time).
'The Sash' started the second half on a positive footing and a two pointer from captain Dylan Simpson drew the teams level five minutes into the half (0-7 apiece).
Bennettsbridge restored their three point lead ten minutes later but the Tullaroan heart was clear for all to see and they were back level by the hour mark in a tight, physical game.
The teams were deadlocked at 0-11 each at the end of normal time with extra-time required to separate the sides.
Another Dylan Simpson two pointer would prove crucial as the match headed into the dying stages, not only in the scoring stakes but in terms of Tullaroan momentum as the champions opened up a nine point lead with full-time looming.
The Bridge did bag a late consolation goal but Tullaroan held on for a six point win.