Sean Johnston celebrates after scoring his side’s third goal against Derrygonnelly
Cavan Gaels booked their place in the Ulster Club final with a thrilling late goal to beat Derrygonnelly 5 -7 to 2-15 yesterday.
They now go forward to play in their first Ulster Club Senior Championship final in 40 years.
As a result this Sunday’s final will be an exciting day for the Gaels, but the odds are against them. No Cavan club has ever won the Ulster Club Senior Championship, and only the Gaels and Kingscourt have ever reached the final.
They are also up against the mighty Slaughtneil who have beaten some of the best teams in Ulster, in Kilcoo, Omagh and Kilcar to reach the decider.
The Gaels had trailed by 1-3 to 0-4 in the first quarter, but they hit Derrygonnelly with two goals from Paul O’Connor, and one from Seanie Johnston just before half time. They lead 3-5 to 1-8 at half time.
O’Connor scored his hat trick just after half time, and that left things looking ominous for the Harps.
Ryan Jones super goal from distance lifted Derrygonnelly’s spirits, and the same man put them ahead in injury time, however Barry Fortune’s goal at the death delivered an incredible win for the Breffni lads.
The reaction on social media was one of shock and delight, with some fans impressed by the Gaels and others suggesting that they have a chance against Slaughtneil:
Nothing but respect. @DgonnellyHarps
— Cavan Gaels GAA (@cavangaelsGFC) November 19, 2017
This Cavan Gaels game is pure mad.
— Mark Farrelly (@MarkFarrelly131) November 19, 2017
Well done to Evaan Fortune and the Cavan Gaels team on a great win and getting to an Ulster final .
— John Brady (@John_Miller09) November 19, 2017
Unbelievably exciting game in Clones, decided with 66th min goal… Cavan Gaels through to first Ulster final in 40 years, unbeaten in 20 matches, scoring 38 goals.
— Paul Fitzpatrick (@moefitzpatrick) November 19, 2017
Fortune favours the brave. Seeya’s next Sunday! ?⚪️?? pic.twitter.com/1nSVdZ18gS
— Cavan Gaels GAA (@cavangaelsGFC) November 20, 2017
Plenty for @cavangaelsGFC to improve on for next Sunday’s final. Dangerous underdogs who remain unbeaten in 2017 ? @Johnsts4 @13dunnie
— Ryan Mc Cluskey (@clucker60) November 19, 2017
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