Preview: Sunday’s All-Ireland Camogie Finals:
Sunday 6th August
Glen Dimplex All-Ireland Senior Camogie Final
Cork v Waterford, Croke Park, 5pm
Statement All-Ireland Semi-Final victories were registered by Cork and Waterford.
So that is why both counties head to the capital heartened ahead of an eagerly anticipated decider.
Waterford’s last appearance in the senior showpiece happened way back in 1945.
Cork are well versed in reaching this stage with 28 titles accumulated and runners-up on a further 22 occasions.
It is Cork’s third final appearance on the spin, but defeats to Galway and Kilkenny hurt deeply in 2021 and 2022.
During the current campaign, though, Cork have remained admirably determined and focused.
Despite losing to Galway in the group stages Cork have responded impressively. Defeating Kilkenny and Galway in the knockout rounds confirms Cork’s considerable potential.
Amy O’Connor drilled seven vital points in the 0-15 to 2-6 success over Galway, while also notching 1-6 in the 2-14 to 2-13 triumph against Kilkenny.
Katrina Mackey continues to make an impact for Matthew Twomey’s outfit, who will afford an emerging Waterford side the utmost respect.
Beth Carton’s brilliance was evident during a tight and tense encounter with Tipperary. Waterford eventually prevailed 1-12 to 1-11, Carton’s eight point haul was instrumental in securing the Deise’s passage.
During the group phase Waterford defeated Antrim, Limerick, and Offaly with Seán Power’s charges generating momentum.
Waterford staged a gritty revival to overcome Tipperary, who led by seven points in the opening period.
Lorraine Bray was a key performer as Waterford, backed by a significant support, made an important breakthrough.
Another demanding assignment awaits against Cork. It promises to be a lively tussle.
Glen Dimplex All-Ireland Premier Intermediate Camogie Final
Derry v Meath, Croke Park, 2.45pm
The All-Ireland Intermediate Camogie Championship remains fiercely contested with Derry and Meath eager to summon a winning performance at Croke Park.
Significant development work has been carried out in both counties, who are intent on making further progress.
In the group stages Derry enjoyed convincing victories over Wexford, Carlow, and Antrim.
At the penultimate stage Derry’s 0-21 to 0-14 triumph over Kilkenny was another noteworthy performance.
Áine McAllister starred for Derry, clipping eight points, including five from play.
Meath easily defeated Laois and Kerry before losing to neighbours Westmeath. That was a setback for the Royals, who have responded in defiant fashion by overcome Cork and Westmeath.
Amy Gaffney’s goal was the decisive moment as Meath shrugged off Westmeath’s challenge.
The guile Meath demonstrated augurs well, while Derry’s progress so far means this should be an intriguing affair.
Glen Dimplex All-Ireland Premier Junior Camogie Final
Clare v Tipperary, Croke Park, 12.50pm
Developing talent for the future is part of the remit for Clare and Tipperary in this competition.
So to reach the Croke Park Final is a hugely rewarding experience for emerging players in the respective panels.
In the group stages Tipperary scored heavily in wins over Wicklow and Cavan.
Roscommon were subsequently beaten 2-12 to 0-8 in the semi-finals with Jean Kelly rifling 2-7 for the Premier County.
Clare cruised to victories over Louth, Tyrone, and Roscommon initially before beating Cavan and Armagh.
The 0-22 to 2-15 success over Armagh was achieved courtesy of late scores from Sarah Loughnane and the effective Grace Carmody.
Now a match against Tipperary beckons at the Jones Road venue.