Ballygunner made it five County Senior hurling Championship titles in a row this afternoon, seeing off a gallant Abbeyside outfit in front of 4,275 spectators at Fraher Field.
Abbeyside, playing with wind advantage took to the game to the favourites from the off and went 0-5 to 0-3 in front thanks to scores from Mark Ferncombe, Patrick Hurney and Maurice Power.
The Gunners gradually came into the contest and Pauric Mahony's move to full forward paid dividends as he shot three points in quick succession, with Barry O' Sullivan and Billy O' Keeffe adding scores.
John Hurney replied for Abbeyside, leaving Ballygunner three ahead at the interval (0-9 to 0-6)
The Gunners netted a brace of quick fire goals in the second period which ultimately proved crucial scores as Brian O' Sullivan and Conor Power raised green flags for Fergal Hartley's charges.
Pauric (who hit 13 points, eight frees and five from play) and Mikey Mahony continued to work the scoreboard for the champions, with Michael O' Halloran and the hugely impressive Mark Ferncombe hitting scores for the Villagers.
It ended Ballygunner 2-19 to 0-13 as Shane O' Sullivan and Stephen O' Keffee hoisted the News & Star Cup.
Gunners manager Fergal Hartley was overcome with emotion at the final whistle and says it's the best team the club has ever had.
Fergal admitted Abbeyside brought a big challenge, particularly in the opening period.
Five in a row for Ballygunner pic.twitter.com/TC1svOevzR
— Tomás McCarthy (@tomasmcc) October 7, 2018
