Match Report: MLGFA Minor Championship Round 2 Tipperary v Clare Venue: Fethard Town Park Conditions: Wet and slippery Date: Saturday, March 22nd, 2025

On a wet afternoon at Fethard Town Park, the second round of the MLGFA Minor Championship delivered an intense and competitive clash between Tipperary and Clare. Despite challenging conditions, both sides demonstrated great skill and determination.

Clare wasted no time at the start, with Molly Potter finding the net after just 27 seconds, quickly setting the tone. Tipperary responded well, with Sinead O'Carroll scoring a point from play at 1:16 minutes. The frantic start continued as both sides exchanged wides and scoring opportunities in the early minutes.

Tipperary’s Grace Hogan was accurate from placed balls, converting a free at 3:04 minutes, yet Clare remained clinical in attack as Ria Meaney added a point from play shortly after. Tipperary kept up the pressure, with Molly Crowe and Lucy O'Brien contributing points from play, but Clare’s Abi Kelly provided a decisive boost with another goal at 8:38 minutes, further extending their lead.

As the half progressed, scores became harder to come by, with both sides registering several wides. Tipperary had a forced change due to a blood injury to Emaleigh Cuddihy at 14:48 minutes, Keeva Bailey Moloney stepping into action. By halftime, Clare held a lead of 2-2 (8) to Tipperary's 0-5 (5).

The second half began with Clare immediately asserting themselves, scoring two quick points through Ria Meaney and Áine McNamara, stretching their advantage. Tipperary rang the changes, introducing substitutes Kate Nevin, Lily Maher, Zoe Tierney, Emma Kiely, and Ailise Fitzgerald in attempts to swing momentum in their favor.

Grace Hogan was central to Tipperary’s fightback, notching a crucial goal from a free at 26:24 minutes in the second half. Hogan continued to lead from the front, also contributing points from play. Clare, however, remained composed and effective, particularly through Áine McNamara, who added important scores from both play and placed balls.

Despite a spirited late surge from Tipperary, the final whistle saw Clare victorious, with a full-time score of Clare 2-6 (12) defeating Tipperary 1-6 (9). Clare’s strong early start proved crucial as they successfully held off a determined Tipperary comeback.

Both teams deserve credit for their commitment and skill displayed under tough conditions, making it an absorbing contest for spectators. Clare will be particularly satisfied with their clinical finishing and resilience, while Tipperary can take pride from their tenacity and never-say-die spirit, looking to bounce back positively in the next round.

Full-Time Score:Clare 2-6 (12) - Tipperary 1-6 (9)