Kilnamona triumphs over Kilmaley in historic junior finals

Kilnamona defeated Kilmaley in two junior championship finals at Cusack Park, Ennis, in 1971 and 1975, cementing a fierce local rivalry.

On 19 September 1971 Kilnamona won 4‑7 to 2‑7, overturning a Kilmaley lead in the closing minutes thanks to a dominant last quarter. Midfielders Flan Hegarty and Oliver Keane set the tone, while the Keane brothers – Milo, Michael and Patsy – contributed heavily to the scoreline, with goals from Milo Keane, Joe Pilkington and Patsy Keane securing the title.

The 1975 final, played on 5 October, saw Kilnamona again prevail, this time 3‑9 to 1‑5. A fast start and a “tremendous display by Kevin Keane at midfield” gave Kilnamona a comfortable margin, reinforcing their superiority in the local derby.

Both matches were described by the Clare Champion as hard‑fought yet sportsmanlike contests that delighted a large crowd and set a positive example for senior hurlers in the county.

Source: Clare Champion. Photo: Kampus Production / Pexels.