After two heavy defeats in the group stages Trinity had a point to prove against Dublin City University (DCU). From the throw in Cian O’Dulaing was forced out of the game by a pull on the knee. He was replaced by fresher Sean O’Connor. After this early injury Trinity settled into the game nicely, scoring three points with no reply from the visitors courtesy of Fionn O’Riain Broin and Cian O’Sullivan.
The two sides traded points for the rest of the half in a fiercely contested and physical game. With the teams level at the break, Trinity were in need of a big second half performance to pull ahead.
Unfortunately DCU came out stronger after the break, but Trinity managed to stay in the game, slowly reducing the deficit. The match saw a great performance from fresher Cormac Keating, who came into the team after Luke Carey picked up an injury before the competition. Cian O’Sullivan, who has been an commanding presence throughout the group stages, was exceptional from play and from frees.
After 40 minutes DCU pulled away but Trinity managed to get a goal back at the death. In the end it was too little, too late with DCU edging the contest by two points.
DCU are one of the stalwarts of the Fitzgibbon Cup and for Trinity to come within two points of beating them in their first year back at the top tier of college hurling is a massive achievement. With this encouraging result under their belts they can bow out of the Fitzgibbon Cup with their heads held high and with the well-earned belief that next year could bring them even more success.
Due to an increase in membership, Trinity’s hurlers are now fielding a second team, who are playing their first championship match against Queens University Belfast in Santry on Thursday. This is a must win game as it is a knockout competition. The freshers will also be competing in the next few weeks.
