Brian Borus captured the Tipperary LGFA John Kennedy Motors U21 Division 2 League Final title 

after edging out Slieve Felim Rapparees on a 2-12 to 2-9 scoreline in an entertaining and closely contested decider on Monday evening.

Played at a lively pace throughout, the final produced some excellent football, fine individual performances and plenty of drama before Brian Borus pulled clear in the closing stages to secure a deserved three-point victory.

Brian Borus made the perfect start when Sarah English struck for a goal inside the opening three minutes after a sharp attacking move. Slieve Felim Rapparees settled quickly however and responded with points from Annie Phelan and Molly Carr to stay firmly in touch.

English continued to prove a major threat for the winners and added a point from play before Brian Borus goalkeeper Hazel Ryan produced an important save at the opposite end. The game swung again moments later when Alice Butler found the net for Slieve Felim Rapparees to level matters after ten minutes.

With both sides enjoying strong spells of possession, chances came at either end. English converted a free before adding her second goal of the half on 14 minutes to restore the Brian Borus advantage. Slieve Felim Rapparees refused to let the game drift away and scores from Molly Carr, Annie Phelan and Alice Butler ensured there was just a single point between the sides at the interval, Brian Borus leading 2-3 to 1-5.

The second half continued in equally competitive fashion. Alice Butler pointed immediately after the restart to draw Slieve Felim Rapparees level once more, but Brian Borus responded impressively with Sarah English again to the fore as she clipped over a series of excellent scores.

Despite further saves from Hazel Ryan and Áine Nugent keeping both teams in contention, Brian Borus gradually began to gain control around the middle third. English’s accuracy from play and placed balls proved crucial, while Rona O’Connor and Anna French also contributed important second-half points.

Slieve Felim Rapparees remained dangerous throughout and were right back in contention when Annie Phelan rifled to the net midway through the second half. Alice Butler and Molly Carr added further points as the deficit narrowed once again entering the closing stages.

However, Brian Borus finished strongly. Another pair of scores from the outstanding Sarah English, including the insurance point deep into stoppage time, sealed victory and sparked celebrations among the Brian Borus supporters.

English was unquestionably the standout performer on the night, contributing an impressive personal tally and causing constant problems for the Slieve Felim Rapparees defence. Alice Butler, Annie Phelan and Molly Carr were prominent throughout for Slieve Felim Rapparees, while Hazel Ryan produced several fine saves to keep her side in the contest.

In the end though, Brian Borus’ greater scoring efficiency and strong finish proved decisive as they claimed the Division 2 crown after an absorbing final.