July 25, 2026
If only all hurling games could produce the level of excitement witnessed this evening as Portlaoise and Park-Ratheniska-Timahoe (PRT) served up a thrilling encounter in the U15 C Hurling Championship in Ratheneska.
From the throw-in, it was PRT who burst out of the blocks, playing with intensity and accuracy to build up a commanding nine-point lead during the opening half. Portlaoise, however, showed tremendous character and resilience, gradually working their way back into the contest to reduce the deficit to just five points by the half-time whistle.
What followed in the second half was hurling at its most entertaining. Goals flowed as the game swung back and forth. Adam Sythes and Logan Fitzpatrick Peters both found the net, while Noah Clear buried a penalty with the confidence and precision that Joe Canning himself would have admired. The returning Harry O’Dwyer marked his comeback from injury in perfect fashion by also raising the green flag.
With the tension building throughout the second period, the game developed into a gripping battle that went right down to the wire before finishing with just a single point separating the sides. It would be unfair to single out individuals from a Portlaoise perspective, as every player from 1 to 15 gave absolutely everything for the cause and left nothing behind on the field. Credit to the under 13s who stepped up and didn’t look out of place. Great to see lads being proud to wear the white and green whenever asked.
A special mention must go to Sam Breen, who suffered a nasty blow to the face during the game. With no substitutes available, Sam showed tremendous courage and determination to pick himself up and see out the remainder of the match for his team.
This result makes it two wins from three outings for this excellent group of players, and it was wonderful to see the smiles and celebrations at the final whistle after such a hard-fought victory.
Great credit is due to Brian Bohan, Mick Bowe, Brian Devaney , Shane Walsh and Ed O’Dwyer for their dedication and commitment in keeping both Under 15 panels thriving. Their hard work is clearly paying dividends, both in the performances on the pitch and in the enjoyment being shown by this talented young group.
Torthaí agus cluichí (For all fixtures and results) @ https://portlaoisegaa.ie/fixtures/
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C’mon the Town / An Baile Abú 
