Blackhall Gaels secure historic victory

Longwood provided the backdrop this evening for a piece of hurling history as Blackhall Gaels won their first ever game in the SHC when they defeated Na Fianna 1-15 to 1-12.

The Gaels were ahead by 1-11 to 1-4 at the interval and looked to be on their way to a comfortable win.

However, they had to survive a late surge by Na Fianna who reduced the deficit to just a point with only five minutes remaining.

Blackhall stepped up the tempo and with Shane Whitty adding two late points, one from half-way,  they secured their cherished victory. 

Kevin Coyle scored the goal for Blackhall Gaels just before the interval after a Dermot Carty shot was saved by Na Fianna netminder Davy Reilly.

Carty went on to finish the game as Blackhall's topscorer with seven points, four from frees.

Peter Slevin registered Na Fianna's goal on 23 minutes and that helped to keep them in the game.

With Barry Slevin showing outstanding form and late scores from Johnny McCloseky and Eoin Reilly, Na Fianna kept the pressure on but there was no denying Blackhall their long-awaited win.

Jimmy Geoghegan.