Erin’s Own, who were missing some key players, never got going. except for a short period in the second-half when they struck over some fine points. All their efforts for a vital goal failed, however, due mainly to the vigilant goalkeeping of Noel Murphy and the great defensive work of Sean Bowes, James Furlong. Noel Curtin and Pat Walsh. who dealt with everything that came their way.

Castlemartvr dominated the opening half and got a dream start when a sideline free from John Morgan was mishandled by Paul Twomev in the Erin's Own goal. He allowed the ball drop out of his hands and over his goalline in the very first minute.After six minutes they were ahead 1-3 to 0-0 and while Raymond O'Connor pointed a close in free in the 10th minute, it was Castlemartyr who went into the second-half leading 1-6 to 0-2.

Beaten in midfield and their backs under severe pressure from John Morgan, Tony Barrett and Kieran Murphy, Erin’s Own made numerous positional switches and were forced to make many more as the second-half progressed. They did look more impressive in the second-half but try as they did they found their task to goal a difficult one.

They reduced the lead to five points and were beginning to come more into the game when their dreams of glory were shattered. John Morgan lobbed the ball out to Tony Barrett who fired in a great effort which forced a great save from Twomey. He failed to hold the ball, however. and Sean Leahy, who was just on as a sub, came charging in and goaled.