Loreto Bray were crowned Wicklow Senior Schools champions following a thrilling and high-quality encounter with St. David's, Greystones. A game that had everything and demanded your full attention from start to finish.
It was St. David's who made the brighter start, racing into an early lead and leaving Loreto trailing 0–0 to 1–2 after ten minutes. With the pressure mounting and the reality setting in that this was the final outing for many of their 6th-year stars, Loreto needed a response; and they delivered.
A brilliant breakout from defence, spearheaded by Kate, sparked the turnaround. Slick hand-passing through the lines created the opening, and Hannah finished emphatically to the net, igniting Loreto’s challenge. Buoyed by the goal, Loreto began to dominate, adding a series of well-worked points to edge ahead.
Momentum continued to build when Alannah's attacking play forced a foul inside the square. Up stepped Hannah once again, calmly dispatching the penalty to extend Loreto’s lead.
The remainder of the half was a spectacle of end-to-end football, with both sides showcasing their attacking talent. Goals flowed from Annie, Lily, Alannah, and Nicolette, while the defensive unit of Zoe, Eimear, Clodagh, Kate and Rebecca stood resolute, limiting Greystones largely to points. By the interval, Loreto held a commanding lead of two goals.
With silverware within touching distance - and driven by a desire to send their 6th years out in style - Loreto returned for the second half with relentless energy. Their performance was defined by intensity, teamwork, and composure, as they continued to control the game and fend off any St. David's resurgence.
At the final whistle, there was no doubt about the outcome. Loreto Bray were deserved winners, crowned Wicklow champions after a superb display of football.