Slevin seals thrilling Leinster club hurling win
Conor Slevin emerged as the decisive figure in a pulsating extra-time showdown, netting a long-range free to clinch victory for Kilcormac-Killoughey. The Offaly side overcame Naas in Newbridge, setting up a semi-final clash with Shelmaliers on 22 November.
Decisive moments and standout performances
With over two minutes into stoppage time of extra time, Slevin calmly slotted home his fifth point of the contest, securing a 1-32 to 3-25 triumph for the Offaly champions. His last two scores were crucial, first cancelling out Jack Sheridan’s late goal that had put Naas ahead, before sealing the win deep in his own half following a foul on James Mahon.
Adam Screeney also made a significant impact, tallying an impressive 1-13, including a vital goal in the second half of extra time. Despite losing key centre-back Cillian Kiely to a second yellow card in the 52nd minute, Kilcormac-Killoughey showcased resilience and experience to prevail.
Colin Spain and Colin Mahon added valuable contributions, while Naas, who have dominated Kildare hurling with eight consecutive titles, fought valiantly. Naas were narrowly denied victory in normal time by a brilliant point from Spain in the 63rd minute, forcing the extra 20 minutes.
A fiercely contested encounter
Naas started strongly with early scores from Daire Guerin and Jack Sheridan's goal capitalising on a defensive lapse. Cathal Dowling’s opportunistic second goal further boosted Naas, who led 2-8 to 0-10 at halftime. Kilcormac-Killoughey fought back in the third quarter, outscoring their opponents and tying the game with Spain’s clever sideline point.
The match remained tightly contested throughout, with the sides level seven times in the final 20 minutes. Naas took a brief lead in extra time through Brian Byrne’s third goal, but Kilcormac-Killoughey’s determination shone through in the closing stages. Slevin’s heroics, coupled with Declan Laffan’s tactical guidance, ensured the Offaly champions advanced to face Shelmaliers on 22 November.
Team line-ups and key stats
Kilcormac-Killoughey scorers included Adam Screeney (1-13, 0-11 frees), Conor Slevin (0-5 frees), Colin Spain (0-4), and Conor Mahon (0-3). Naas’s efforts were spearheaded by Jack Sheridan (1-13, 0-10 frees, 0-1 65), Brian Byrne (1-3), and James Burke (0-4).
The match was officiated by referee Thomas Gleeson from Dublin.
For those following the Leinster Club SHC, Kilcormac-Killoughey’s victory marks their 12th win in the competition and sets the stage for a highly anticipated semi-final clash later this month.