In a thrilling display of determination and grit, Ballina secured their third consecutive championship title in a stunning comeback that left spectators on the edge of their seats! In an unforgettable replay of the Mayo senior football championship final, the Ballina Stephenites triumphed over Westport with a score of 2-13 to 1-15, thanks in large part to their captain Evan Regan's unforgettable late-game performance.
Regan became a hero for his team by scoring the decisive point five minutes into injury time, sealing the victory for Ballina in dramatic fashion. His remarkable contribution of 1-04 in the final quarter transformed the momentum of the match, rescuing his team from what looked like an inevitable defeat, especially when they found themselves trailing by 10 points halfway through the second half.
The late-game unraveling for Westport was a shock, considering their strong performance earlier in the match. They had played exceptionally well, demonstrating a strategic edge and skillful execution that kept them ahead for much of the game. They led convincingly by 1-14 to 0-07 as the game approached its final moments—a lead that had seemed insurmountable.
Westport's scoring spree kicked off almost immediately, with Finbarr McLaughlin exploiting early opportunities to score a sensational goal just 14 seconds into the match, setting the tone for their dominance. Led by key players like Conal Dawson and Eoghan McLaughlin, with Joey Holmes proving a constant threat to Ballina's defenses, Westport established a commanding presence. By the time they reached halftime, they were comfortably in front at 1-10 to 0-06, bolstered by a magnificent two-pointer from Rory Brickenden just before the break, which emphasized their control over the match.
Ballina, on the other hand, struggled to find their rhythm, with only a few players, including Regan, the impressive Sam Callinan, and the relentless Padraig O’Hora, showing any resolve against Westport's dominance. Their scoring efforts were limited, relying heavily on Regan's three points, with O'Hora and Frank Irwin contributing as well.
Interestingly, Westport seemed to manage well in the absence of their captain, Lee Keegan, who was sidelined by a knee injury. As the second half unfolded, Westport appeared to maintain their control, even as Ballina faltered to find momentum. A series of successful frees from Killian Kilkelly allowed Westport to keep their comfortable lead intact, while Ballina could only muster a solitary score in the first 20 minutes of the second half, a free kick from the ever-reliable Regan.
The situation worsened for Ballina when O’Hora was injured, adding to their woes. Despite concerns over the fitness of Eoghan McLaughlin, who hobbled off the field but remained influential, Finbarr McLaughlin's score extended Westport's lead to an impressive ten points, leaving them looking secure against impending defeat.
Then, in a swift and unexpected turn of events, momentum shifted dramatically in the 51st minute when a quick free taken by Regan deflected into the Westport goal. Just five minutes later, Dylan Thornton found the net again for Ballina, cleverly converting a pass from Regan, narrowing the gap to just four points. From that moment on, everything changed—the tides had turned.
Although Kilkelly managed to stabilize Westport's nerves with a free shortly thereafter, the resurgence from Ballina was palpable. They didn’t back down, with Irwin and Conor McStay scoring further points that kept the pressure on Westport as the match drew into injury time. It was during this climactic phase that Regan truly shined, first scoring from a free before leading Ballina in a stunning possession play that lasted nearly two minutes. This effort climaxed with Regan levelling the score through a well-placed two-pointer in the 64th minute.
With extra time looming on the horizon, the drama wasn't over yet. Ballina skillfully reclaimed the ball from Westport's kick-out, and their top scorer took the opportunity to clinch victory with a final, nerve-wracking point that capped off an extraordinary comeback.
Here's what you need to consider: How do teams bounce back from a seemingly impossible situation? And what does this say about the character and resilience of the players involved? Feel free to share your thoughts below; your perspective could shine a light on this exciting conclusion!
Ballina Stephenites Lineup:
D Clarke; L Golden, L Jordan, C Boland; S Callinan, P O’Hora (0-01), D Tighe; M Murray (0-01), F Irwin (0-02); D Thornton (1-00), C McStay (0-01), N Feeney; E Regan (1-08, 1-0f, 2tp, 2f), J Irwin, L Doherty.
Substitutions: C Treacy for Feeney (31); S Regan for O’Hora (42, injured); L Feeney for J Irwin (44); B Thornton for Boland (51).
Westport Lineup:
P O’Malley (0-02, 1 free); B Doyle, N McManamon, B McDermott; C Dawson, E McLaughlin, F McLaughlin (1-1); R Brickenden (0-02, 1 two-pointer), R Askin; L Tunney, M Moran (0-01), B O’Malley; L Silke, K Kilkelly (0-06, 6 frees), J Holmes (0-03).
Substitutions: J Grady for Askin (halftime); T Lambert for McLaughlin (48, injured); K Keane for Tunney (55); C Moran for M Moran (64).
Referee: K Connelly (Hollymount/Carramore)
What are your thoughts on this remarkable comeback, and do you think Westport could have changed their approach to secure a win? Let's delve into the conversation in the comments!
