Portlaoise’s Leinster Hopes Dashed by Dominant Kilmacud Crokes Performance
In a decisive quarter-final match of the AIB Leinster Club Senior Championship, Kilmacud Crokes defeated Portlaoise with a commanding score of 3-15 to 0-5. This match took place at Pairc de Burca in Stillorgan as Kilmacud Crokes aimed to defend their title against the challenging Portlaoise team.
Kilmacud Crokes’ Lethal Performance
Kilmacud Crokes advanced to this stage after defeating Longford Slashers the previous weekend. Portlaoise, in contrast, had not played since their win against St Conleth’s 15 days prior, which seemed to impact their readiness.
The first half saw Kilmacud Crokes take an early lead with three points before Portlaoise responded. Their captain, Aishling Kehoe, netted Portlaoise’s first score. However, Kilmacud Crokes quickly retaliated, and Éabha Rutledge scored the first goal of the match, contributing to their halftime lead of 1-8 to 0-5.
Second Half Developments
The second half proved challenging for Portlaoise, as they struggled to make any significant impact while facing a strong wind. Ailbhe Davoren opened the scoring for Kilmacud Crokes, followed by a goal from Amy Conroy. Despite a temporary numerical advantage when Kate Murray of Kilmacud was carded, Portlaoise could not capitalize.
- Final Score: Kilmacud Crokes 3-15, Portlaoise 0-5
- Halftime Score: Kilmacud Crokes 1-8, Portlaoise 0-5
Top Scorers
The scoring breakdown highlighted Kilmacud Crokes’ effective offense:
| Player | Goals | Points |
|---|---|---|
| Éabha Rutledge | 1 | 3 (1 Free) |
| Amy Conroy | 1 | 2 |
| Ailbhe Davoren | 1 | 2 |
| Michelle Davoren | 0 | 3 |
| Niamh Cotter | 0 | 2 (1 Free) |
| Laura Kane | 0 | 2 |
Portlaoise’s Struggles
For Portlaoise, scoring was a struggle throughout the match. Grainne Moran led their scoring with two points, while Aishling Kehoe, Leah Loughman, and Alison Taylor each contributed one point.
Ultimately, Kilmacud Crokes’ dominance in this quarter-final has dashed Portlaoise’s hopes for a Leinster title. The reigning champions demonstrated superior skill and teamwork, asserting their position in the championship.
