Bruree bridge 113-year gap

16 October 2006

Stephen McDonogh celebrated his 37th birthday at the Gaelic Grounds by helping Bruree to their first Limerick SHC success since 1893 at the expense of raging favourites Patrickswell.

Bruree………….1-16
Patrickswell…….1-15

The former county star, who lined out at centre back, described it as the proudest moment of his career. The ’Well, who were seeking their 19th crown since making the breakthrough in 1965, were left stunned after Stephen O’Halloran fired over two late points to give the underdogs a sensational victory. O’Halloran finished with 0-11 to his credit, 0-9 of which came from frees.

Patrickswell made the brighter start and went on to lead by 1-7 to 0-8 at the interval thanks to Barry Foley’s goal on the stroke of half-time. They kept their noses in front until the 50th minute when Tommy O’Brien scored a stunning goal to edge Bruree into a 1-14 to 1-13 lead.

And even though Barry Foley levelled, Bruree quickly regained the lead when O’Halloran raced on to McDonogh’s long clearance before shooting over. O’Halloran put two between the sides in the 58th minute and while Foley replied again, Bruree held on to secure a famous win.