The Donegal men’s team successfully defended their All-Ireland title in style at the All-Ireland INDO Championships at the INEC Arena in Killarney.
This is the 14th championship victory for Donegal as they make history this year as back-to-back champions.
Group stages saw Donegal accrue 42 points. Results included: Donegal 13-0 Mayo, Donegal 11-2 Westmeath, Donegal 10-3 Kildare, and Donegal 9-4 Clare.
In the knockout stages, Donegal progressed through the rounds with the following results: Last 16: Donegal 7-5 Sligo, Quarterfinal: Donegal 7-1 Waterford, and Semifinal: Donegal 7-3 Offaly.
The final pitted Donegal against Cork. Old Timer Flood initiated the match, recovering from an initial deficit to secure a 3-1 victory. Captain Fantastic Cartha Boyle followed with a 3-0 win. John ‘Meencha’ Gallagher suffered a 3-1 loss, allowing Cork to get on the board. Gerard McGlynn responded with a 3-0 victory. Charlie Grant and Stephen Harron each achieved 3-1 wins, extending Donegal’s lead. Declan Quinn’s 3-1 loss provided Cork with a brief resurgence, countered by Butch Devine’s 3-1 win, placing Donegal at match point at 6-2.
Vice-Captain Jordan Boyce secured the championship. Despite an early deficit, Boyce rallied to a 2-1 lead, culminating in a decisive final leg victory.
Final Score: Donegal 7-3 Cork.
The club said: “This historic victory reinforces Donegal’s legacy as one of the greatest teams ever. Back-to-back champions, a 14th title, and a squad filled with leaders, fighters, and winners.”
