There was tension, excitement and rivalry in the air as the two teams boldly strode onto the Trim GAA pitch. The talk in the St. Paul’s dressing room was all very similar “Go out there and play your heart out, whether you’re ten points up or ten points down…”
The referee threw in the sliotar, blew his whistle and the game began. Both teams fought hard in the first 5 minutes, but it was Rathbeggan who drew first blood, scoring an early goal. Things didn’t get any easier for St. Paul’s as Rathbeggan piled on the pressure quickly adding on another goal and a point to their tally. Finally a break as the referee blew for half time!
The St. Paul’s team got into a huddle. There were certainly some concerned faces, but the team and the coaches all agreed that in the second half they would show Rathbeggan who the real St. Paul’s were. Some early chances for St. Paul’s went astray from frees and open play. Rathbeggan seemed to have no bad luck as the goals rained down on the St. Paul’s team. St. Paul’s, who had beaten and drew with Rathbeggan in previous matches, then managed a goal and one point both scored by the Corbett brothers Tomás and Seán.
We could all see how hard the team was working, but unfortunately it wasn’t our day as Rathbeggan won the game by 13 points. Tears were shed by our brave St. Paul’s warriors as they shook hands with the Rathbeggan players. A tough day on the field and an unlucky score line.
Well done to the boys and their coaches Ms. Bagnall, Ms. Burke, Ms. Ní Mhurchú and Ms. Talty. We are all extremely proud of you!
Written by Ruairí Braiden, Sixth Class.
