Cory Murphy no match for Niall O'Connor in Leinster u21 final
Written by Antóin Ó ‘Braoin, Rúnaí Contae
The level needed to be at to be competitive in the All Ireland 60×30 under 21 singles championship was amply demonstrated at Castlebridge yesterday evening when Cory Murphy, Wexford proved no match for the very impressive Niall O’Connor, Kildare in the Leinster final.
It was only in the early stages of each game that Murphy gave the impression he might make a match of it but on each occasion it was O’Connor who took charge of proceedings to romp home 21-6, 21-8.
The left hander from Leixlip has all the attributes to succeed in this ultra competitive sport, helped by a really fine pair of hands that gives him command of all the shots he requires, including the ability to place the ball softly when he needs to. He also showed good shot selection when he had to and appears equipped to take this title in September.
For Cory Murphy it was a difficult evening but with his best results (including an All Ireland minor title) coming in doubles, this was a big ask.