Spa’s Senior County Championship campaign came to an end on Sunday afternoon as they fell to a three-point defeat against Dr Crokes in the semi-final, despite a determined second-half comeback that brought the contest right down to the wire.

Spa found themselves nine points adrift at half-time, with Dr Crokes making better use of their scoring opportunities. Dara Moynihan and Liam Kearney registered first-half points for Spa, while David Spillane also raised the green flag. 

Crokes extended their advantage to 11 points early in the second half, but Spa showed tremendous character to fight their way back into the contest. A further two goals from David Spillane, completing his hat-trick, along with points from Dara Moynihan and Evan Cronin, sparked a remarkable spell that breathed new life into the game.

With five minutes remaining, Spa had reduced the deficit to just three points. Both sides subsequently lost a player to a red card, with Crokes also extending their lead back to five points, but Spa continued to search for a way back. Cian Murphy landed an excellent two-pointer, his second of the half, to keep hopes alive before a last minute attacking move offered one final opportunity to snatch something from the game. Spa won a free close to goal as they searched for an equaliser, but they were unable to convert into a scoring opportunity, with the time running out and Crokes holding firm to secure their place in the final.

While the result was disappointing, there is plenty for Spa to take from the match. David Spillane’s hat-trick was another highlight, while the team’s refusal to give in, even when facing a significant deficit, demonstrated the spirit and determination that have characterised their run to Semi Final. With greater accuracy in front of goal, the outcome might have been different, but the players and management can take real encouragement from the effort and commitment shown throughout the campaign.

A sincere thank you to the Spa supporters who travelled in such great numbers again and got behind the team. Your support is greatly appreciated.

With an O’Donoghue Cup match vs Rathmore and a Championship Play-Off v Templenoe to follow in the coming weeks, the players and management will regroup and look to finish the season strongly.