The Cavan U16 ladies side ended a 46-year-wait for an All-Ireland Under-16 title following a narrow victory over Cork in the decider.
Cavan winning out 2-12 to 1-13. Having led by four points 13 minutes in, Cavan found themselves trailing by the same margin at half-time.
Nonetheless, their manager Michael Flynn said his players remained confident at the break.
“We knew that if we applied ourselves and didn’t lose heart that we were always in with a shout” said Flynn. “And so it showed. They just kept plugging away and eventually it came good in the last couple of minutes.”
Mia Lynch and Ella Sheridan amassed a combined total of 1-10 with the majority coming from placed balls. Mia Lynch’s two late points proved decisive in the end.
“It’s just testament to the character that they showed" said Flynn, marvelling at the composure they showed under pressure.
Fainche Higgins an upcoming star
Cavan goalkeeper Fainche Higgins was named player of the match. Higgins was outstanding throughout, but her finest moment was witnessed eight minutes from time. Producing a fantastic double save from Sarah Barry. Firstly, stopping a penalty goal before repelling the Cork substitute from play.
Michael Flynn says Higgins was a player that impressed him right from the outset. “From the beginning of the tournament we knew we had a special goalkeeper. And we knew that if everything else was equal in the middle of the pitch that she could be the difference.
Flynn was oozing with praise for the whole team however. The Cavan boss says he’s privileged to be at the helm. “To have any kind of influence over those girls, whatever influence we may have had, is an honour.”
Our All Ireland Champions will be arriving at approximately 1:50 here at the County Bridge! The bonfires are lit and waiting 💙🤍
Location Pin here 👇👇 https://t.co/8XN1zxcZNf pic.twitter.com/wAR5YLV0ov
— CavanLGFA (@CavanLGFA) July 29, 2023
