Battle of the Best -
Griffins vs Bandits
by Jack Harrold
As the sun reached its zenith, the two teams at the top of the leaderboard embodied the phrase “Clash of the Ash.” Both sides were undefeated; though technically Shamrock was ahead of Brocach due to the Bandits weather-called game. Shamrock Club seemed to have an edge going into the game if only because Brocach was down players and forced to find substitutes. Could the hodge-podged together Bandit squad unseat the ever victorious Griffins?
Immediately, the defenses of both sides set the pace and tone of the game. Though physical, defenders showed dexterous grace challenging and clearing all sliotars. Either offensive side would have to earn their points, which made for spectacular play. Shamrock Club managed to put up 1-4(7), but Brocach was right on their heels with 1-3(6) as the first quarter ended.
Looking at the score, Shamrock, believing they found a slight hole in the Bandit defense continued to shoot for points. That strategy seemed solid as the Brocach fullback line chewed up every offensive player that dared come their way.
photo credit: Ellen Burmeister and Kerry Leonard