There were scenes of great joy in Galway this morning when our mighty U13s came through the toughest of battles to qualify for the Connacht Shield final.
The 3-0 won over Galwegians Black was secured in the very final moments when Niall Murphy converted a penalty with the last kick of the game to unleash scenes of wild delight.

Ballina were dominant for long periods and camped in the opposition 22 for much of the first half only to be held up time and time again as Galwegians tackled their hearts out especially Kyle Barrett and Neil Taylor.
Ballina's captain Daragh Hopkins,leading from the front, was held up as the pick and goes from the Ballina pack didn't quite go according to plan and Galwegians survived.
An injury to Ronan Gallagher on the stroke of half time, resulted in a break in play and during that time the Ballina boys were adamant they would would not let this game slip through their fingers. Thankfully, Ronan will make a full recovery!
As the second half got under way Orin Canavan moved effortlessly in to full back. Getting the ball wide was was obviously needed but Ballina just didn't have the finishing touch as time and time again the ball was knocked on in good positions.
As the minutes ticked down it was clear that Ballina needed a stroke of luck to break through a strong Galwegians back line. Adam Forde gave everything and was replaced on the wing by Rob Murphy as Padraig Gavin moved to fly half.
Tedd Rowe replaced Joe Gill at scrum half in an effort to find the missing piece and as the time ticked over, a replay was on the cards.
Then, in the final moments a Galwegians player came in late on Conor Brown and the referee raised his arm for a penalty. Niall Murphy had no hesitation to point to the posts and he lined up his shot and took a swing.
The ball flew between the posts and the three points were scored. The referee signalled the score and the final whistle in the one movement. The celebrations were loud and the ticket to the final was secured.