East Cork came good in the final to claim the AIG Insurance Challenge Cup after an impressive display against Mount Juliet writes Brendan Coffey.
Pic: Pat Cashman
Teenager Rachel Rea set the tone for the champions with a comprehensive 8&7 victory in the back match. Suzanne Hickey was almost as convincing during her 4&3 win against Niamh Strudwick and Rachel Sheehan took the top match 3&2 in what was a superb team performance.
“I can’t say enough to praise them, they were absolutely awesome,” said team captain Frances O’Brien, who was thrilled with her side’s success. “They were a very good opposition. Our girls really had to be at the top of their game to beat them today.”
Champions two years ago, this was a new team for East Cork and 17-year-old Rea had to take time out from her final year of secondary school to be in Knightsbrook this week. “Rachel’s after taking time out from her Leaving Cert, her mother gave her permission,” O’Brien revealed. “I think for us it seemed as if it went right to the wire because you’re not in until you’re in. it was just magnificent. East Cork keeps producing players and it’s a very competitive club.” O’Brien and her team headed home to Midleton in high spirits after another memorable success.
