IAFC Final Ends in Dramatic Draw

Final Score: Ilen Rovers 2-9 – Ballinora 0-15

The McCarthy Insurance Group Intermediate A Football Championship (IAFC) final concluded in a thrilling stalemate at SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh, necessitating a replay to determine the champions. The intensely fought contest saw both teams fail to convert opportunities in a dramatic second half.

Ilen Rovers started strongly, establishing an early foothold and capitalizing with two crucial goals to lead by four points at the break. Despite being denied a penalty goal by a magnificent save and struggling with a high wide count, the opposing side showed composure to gradually reduce the deficit in the second half, eventually taking a brief lead.

The drama peaked in injury time. After Ilen Rovers surged ahead by three points, their defense conceded a free kick from outside the arc in the final minute. The resulting two-point free was converted successfully, leveling the scores at 2-9 to 0-15 and forcing a second meeting. Both teams will welcome the chance to improve their accuracy before the replay.

Upcoming Finals Double-Header

The replay and Co-Op Superstores IHC final have been confirmed for a double-header at SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh on Sunday, November 16th:

Time	Competition	Fixture	Venue
1:30 pm	IAFC Final (Replay)	Ballinora v Ilen Rovers	SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh
3:30 pm	IAHC Final	Aghabullogue v Bandon	SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh