Clans are new B champions

They came from behind to deservedly pip Tír na nÓg in last Wednesday night’s All County Intermediate final played at Clann Éireann Park.

Although both clubs will have other silverware to focus on this season, last week’s game was tense from start to finish.

The Blues looked to be struggling when trailing by 0-4 to 0-2 midway through the second half, but a rousing finish, led by their captain John Stewart, pushed them over the line .

Before accepting the Cup from C. C. C. Secretary Mickey McGivern the Clans’ skipper praised Tír na nÓg. He said: “That was a game which either side could have won.

“Luckily we came good in the end to get over the line”.

Clan na Gael’s strength on the bench was the telling factor in the Lurgan side’s win.

Their manager Jim McKerr had the luxury of introducing experienced players in the last quarter when a big push for victory was required.

Focusing their attack through their full forward and former All Star Diarmaid Marsden, the Blues had top performers in Shane Mc Cabe, Caolin Campbell,and Niall Lavery who hit the lead with points close to the end.

Meanwhile there is good news for the Portadown side who have already secured promotion to the top flight.

They need to win one of their two remaining games to be crowned division twochampions.

The Ballyoran men who have drawn the short straw in the Championship and will face division one outfit Shane O’Neills, play Wolfe Tones and Clan na Gael in end of season league matches.

The Ogs are currently the only team in the Armagh football leagues who are undefeated in 2013.

Their scoring averages are staggering and even a high flying Annaghmore side, who lie in second place have scored 47 points less than the Portadown outfit.

Tir Na Nog have registered 221 for and conceded just 119 in 13 games so far.

Annaghmore who sit in second spot also look good for promotion but they are set to fall short of challenging for the title.

Mathematically Clan na Gael can still win the second division.

The Blues would need to win all of their last three games in the hope that Tir Na Nog lose both of their remaining ties.

As things stand the Lurgan men may have to settle for a runners-up spot.