Loughmacrory has claimed its historic first title in the Tyrone Senior Football Championship (SFC) final, overcoming a determined Trillick team. This match showcased a dramatic battle on the pitch, filled with unexpected twists and intense moments.
Match Overview
The game initially favored Trillick, who were striving to secure their second title in three years. They quickly gained momentum, with early scores from Charlie Donnelly, Lee Brennan, and Simon Garrity putting them ahead.
Loughmacrory’s Resilience
As the nerves subsided, Loughmacrory turned the tide. They seized control of the match by dominating the Trillick kick-outs. Ruairi McCullagh found the net first, sparking a series of six consecutive scores from Loughmacrory.
- Ruairi McCullagh – 1 point
- Paul McElholm – 2 points
- Cathaoir Gallagher – 1 point
- Cathal Donaghy – 2 points from a stunning distance
Turning Point
Despite Loughmacrory’s surge, Trillick fought back. They benefited from an error by goalkeeper Oisin O’Kane, leading to Lee Brennan’s goal, which put them back in contention. The back-and-forth continued as McCullagh and Brennan exchanged scores.
At halftime, Loughmacrory held a lead of 0-12 to 1-6, thanks to an inspirational two-pointer from McElholm.
Second Half Dynamics
The second half saw Cathal Donaghy continue to dominate, scoring two quick points at the start. Trillick responded rapidly with Mattie Donnelly assisting Daly for another goal, keeping the pressure on Loughmacrory.
- Donaghy and Donnelly exchanged points.
- Richie Donnelly scored to close the gap.
Dramatic Finish
As the match approached its conclusion, Trillick leveled the score for the first time since the 28th minute, with a well-placed shot from Brennan. With only a few minutes left, Gareth Donaghy restored Loughmacrory’s lead with a vital point.
The game entered three minutes of additional time, during which Loughmacrory maintained possession. The referee, Mark Loughran, blew his whistle amidst cheers and disbelief, marking Loughmacrory’s first victory in Tyrone history.
Legacy of the Victory
This milestone achievement not only showcases Loughmacrory’s skill and determination but also sets a benchmark for future competitions in the Tyrone SFC.
