There is a novel pairing in this year’s Roscommon Senior Camogie final as Oran throw down the challenge to St Dominic’s (in Ballyforan on Saturday at 3.30 pm).
The Knockcroghery side are no strangers to playing in finals as this is their sixth on the spin. Indeed St Dominic’s were winners of the title in 2019 and 2022, while a resurgent Oran are looking for their first senior championship success since 2002.
Oran are managed by club legend Colm Kelly and already this year his side have won their first senior league title in over two decades, a breakthrough which bodes well for their prospects this weekend.
Oran are backboned by experienced players like Claire Curley, Michaela Fallon, Marie Carty, Hazel Kelly, Anna Hussey, Shauna McDermott and Orla Connolly.
St Dominic’s, who are managed by John Haughey, have been impressive in the championship this season. They easily accounted for defending champions Athleague in the semi-final and will go into this decider as favourites. They have Susan Spillane and Joanne Naughton back playing for them this year which adds vital experience.
The teams have played each other twice this year. St Dominic’s won their championship encounter by two points, while in the league final Oran won by four, results which suggest that there is very little between them.
There will be plenty of talented young players on view in this final on Saturday. It promises to be a cracking match. St Dominic’s will be the choice of most pundits but it may well be Oran’s year and I’m giving them a hesitant vote to cause a surprise.
Prediction: Oran.
