Jersey started well, with two pointed frees from Jeremy Clare, and the team appeared to be handling the early pressure from their opponents, but it turned out that this was the only time Jersey was to lead in the game, and it was another 25 minutes before they scored again.Parnell’s corner forward, Darran McGeehan, quickly kicked three points and they began to totally dominate the midfield exchanges, despite the best efforts of Peter Lynch and Steve O’Brien when switched with Noel Roche.
Jersey’s half forward line was in serious difficulties as their opponents’ half back line constantly overlapped, turning defence into attack very quickly, and at half time Parnell’s led 0-8 to 0-2.Jersey Irish needed a strong start after the break and after another pointed free from Clare they were awarded an unlikely penalty after a foot block on Jimmy McCormack.But Clare’s usual accuracy deserted him as he struck the ball high and wide, effectively ending any hope of a Jersey comeback, as Parnell’s again took control.They were awarded a penalty when ‘keeper Joe Mooney was judged to have committed a foul and Parnell’s wingback expertly converted.
Although they were dominant they only managed to score another four points.Despite ending the game with 14 men – O’Brien was sent off for two yellow cards – Jersey had a strong finish with another two frees from Clare and a consolation goal from substitute Kenny Rafferty.Although outclassed for long spells Jersey Irish never gave up and provided Parnell’s with their hardest game so far.Good performances came from ‘keeper Mooney and corner back Neil English, as well as midfielder Lynch and skipper McCormack.Team: Mooney, McCarthy (Deasy h/t), Levins, English, Dolan, Clare, O’Brien, Killian (Grant 40), Carthy, McCormack, Brady (Rafferty 55).
