GAELIC SPORTS WORLD Issue 21 – March 14, 2015 | Page 11

Club (formerly played hurling at club’s
foundation, now play rugby and hockey)
in Buenos Aires.
The Argentines showed exceptional skill
in fielding possession and took their opportunities well kicking some fine points
and built up a lead over a lively but less
physical opposition. The Middle East got
back into the game in the second half
when they fired home a goal, but were
unable to add further scores. It ended
with Argentina deservedly into the final
on a scoreline of 0-6 to 1-0.
Argentina (blue) in action impressed in the early going. Photo: Courtesy of Middle East

The second semi-final between Galicia
GAA/Tina & Stew Hunt.
and South Africa was harder to call. The
Galicians did beat the African side early on in the group stages
but the final match on the Friday afternoon saw Argentina just
edge the South Africans. Argentina had beaten South Africa
by just two points while had four to spare over Galicia, so despite having a poorer group record South Africa could still
very much fancy their chances in the semi-final.
The semis played over 12 minute halves lent
getting early scores a distinct advantage and
it was Galicia who made the most of this
with a brace of early goals. This put South
Africa on the backfoot but they came back
well into the game picking off points but
with time running out they needed a goal.
They weren’t able to manage this on account of the fact that Galicia defended well
and it finished Galicia 2-6 South Africa 0-5.
Along with a stronger defense, the ability
to take opportunities in front of goal by
the Galicians is what won them the game.
South Africa had delighted the crowds with
their speed and agility in this tournament

but the early setback was something they could not recover
from and had to give second best to Galicia.
The final then between the Spanish speaking countries of
Argentina and Galicia (who also speak their native Galician)
was unique from this cultural perspective and with both

Canada Ladies Team celebrates after receiving the Ladies International World Cup
from GAA President Aogan O’Farrell. Photo: Toronto GAA.

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