Killanny Claim Division 2 Championship Title There was disappointment for our minor footballers, Na Sáirséalaigh Buíochar, on Saturday, 17th October, as they fell to a strong Killanny outfit in the Division 2 Championship Final at McKeown Park, Drumhowan. Played in ideal and perfect conditions before a sizeable attendance, the decider brought together two talented teams with championship silverware on the line, but it was Killanny who ultimately proved deserving winners, emerging victorious on a scoreline of 3-20 to 3-10. The opening stages suggested that supporters were in for a closely contested affair. Both teams settled quickly into the occasion and the early exchanges were played at a high tempo, with scores arriving at either end. Five minutes into the contest, there was little to separate the sides as Killanny edged ahead by 1-2 to 1-0. Na Sáirséalaigh Buíochar showed no signs of being overawed by the occasion, competing fiercely and working tirelessly to keep pace with their opponents. However, Killanny soon found their rhythm and produced a blistering spell adding three unanswered points to stretch their lead to 1-5 to 1-0. To their credit, Na Sáirséalaigh Buíochar refused to let the game run away from them. Demonstrating their resilience and determination, they responded impressively by tagging on four points to steady the ship and bring themselves back into contention. As the first half entered its closing stages, Killanny began to showcase the quality that had carried them to the final. Their movement, accuracy in front of goal and ability to create scoring opportunities saw them take control of proceedings. While Na Sáirséalaigh Buíochar continued to battle bravely, Killanny enjoyed their strongest period of the game, adding scores at crucial moments and opening up a seven-point cushion by the interval. At the half-time whistle, the scoreboard read: Killanny 1-11, Na Sáirséalaigh Buíochar 1-4. With memories of an impressive second-half display in their semi-final still fresh, there was belief within the Na Sáirséalaigh Buíochar ranks that a strong restart could reignite their challenge. The players emerged for the second period with renewed intensity and purpose, raising their work rate and bringing greater physicality to the contest. While the effort and commitment could never be questioned, Killanny consistently appeared to have an answer whenever Na Sáirséalaigh Buíochar threatened to build momentum. Every Na Sáirséalaigh Buíochar score seemed to be matched by a response at the other end, preventing the gap from narrowing significantly. Nevertheless, the players continued to attack with conviction and never allowed the contest to become a procession. Our most encouraging spell came during the latter stages when the team reduced the deficit to just four points, with the scoreboard showing 2-16 to 3-9. At that stage, hopes of a dramatic comeback were very much alive, and there was a sense that another score could have placed real pressure on the eventual winners. Chances were created, but unfortunately for Na Sáirséalaigh Buíochar, we were unable to fully capitalise on those opportunities. The decisive blow arrived in the closing stages. With Na Sáirséalaigh Buíochar pushing hard to get back into the game, Killanny struck for a crucial goal that effectively ended any hopes of a late revival. A handful of additional points followed as Killanny closed out the game in confident fashion, securing the Division 2 Championship title after an impressive all-round team performance. Final Score: Killanny 3-20, Na Sáirséalaigh Buíochar 3-10. To their immense credit, the Na Sáirséalaigh Buíochar players battled until the very end, displaying the commitment, courage and honesty that has characterised their season. While the result ultimately went against them, the players never stopped working for one another and represented both clubs with great pride throughout the championship campaign. Congratulations must go to Killanny on a deserved victory and on capturing the Division 2 Championship crown. They were clinical when opportunities arose and demonstrated the quality required to emerge as champions. We wish them well as they enjoy their celebrations. For Na Sáirséalaigh Buíochar, this result brings the curtain down on the 2026 playing season. While silverware proved elusive, the amalgamation has undoubtedly been a worthwhile and positive project. The players showed tremendous commitment throughout the year, embracing the challenges of championship football and continuing to develop as a group. A special word of thanks must also go to team management of Vinny Martin, Richie Evans and Garry Calvert, whose dedication, encouragement and countless hours of work with this talented group of young footballers have been invaluable. Their efforts helped foster a strong team spirit and provided the foundations for future progress. To the players, heads up. Defeat is always difficult to accept, particularly on a county final day, but there is much to be proud of. Enjoy the well-earned winter break, take the lessons from this campaign, and come back refreshed and ready for the challenges ahead. @KilleevanGAA @KillannyGFC