The opening round of the Men's Iberian GAA Championship was held today in Valencia.
Four teams, as per last year, were competing: Barcelona Gaels, Madrid Harps and Pamplona-Iruna, as well as the hosts, Sant Vicent- Valencia.
The day began with a tightly-fought game between Valencia and Madrid.  The visitors opened the scoring after some good early saves by both keepers.  Soon after, Valencia equalised,  and extended their lead with a penalty, to go into half-time leading 1 – 2 to 0 – 1.  In the second half Madrid took only some of their chances to take the lead, and would rue their misses – and a disallowed goal - when Valencia scored a point in the last minute to win by one point.

The second game was between the strongest and the weakest teams from last season, and Barcelona soon took the lead.  Pamplona put up some good resistance but were overcome by the stronger, more physical, team.  Barcelona ran out winners 3 – 13 to 0 – 2.

Barcelona returned to the field immediately to play the home side, and showed no signs of tiredness by taking an early lead of 1 – 2.  A gashed chin forced one of the Valencia players off, but they responded quickly with a point from the central defender.  However, they trailed further behind Barcelona by the break after a goal was disallowed due to being a square ball.  The second half brought more of the same tough play from Barcelona and Valencia were unable to make their mark on the game, finishing 0-3 (Valencia), 4-9 (Barcelona).

Pamplona versus Madrid was the fourth game, Pamplona once again putting up a brave fight but Madrid proving too strong with an excellent defence.  Madrid won their first match of the day.
Pamplona 0 – 1, Madrid 4 – 11.

With two games remaining, Barcelona were assured of progressing to the final.  For the home team to contest it they needed to score many in their next game against Pamplona, or required Barcelona  to beat Madrid in the final round-robin match.

The first requirement was achieved with some strong team play in the game against Pamplona, taking an early lead with a quick goal, a point and a penalty.  Pamplona continued to fight to score but Valencia played fluidly to score well, winning 0-1 to 11-7.

The final group game was watched closely by all parties.  Madrid scored first, and played strong football against a side already through to the final.  Both teams were committed to the game resulting in some stiff tackles and physical play.  Half-time came with Madrid in the lead, 1-4 to 0-1.  The second half reflected the first in scoring, and Madrid doubled their tally to win 2-8 to 0-3.

Valencia were beaten to the final on goal difference.  Barcelona and Madrid would decide the destination of the trophy.

Madrid opened the scoring in the final, but were soon brought back by a quick equaliser from a free for Barcelona.  Consistent kicking ensured Barcelona's lead at half-time was 5 points. (0-8 to 0-3).  Taking their points from open play, Barcelona continued to score throughout the second half.  Madrid scored a goal to raise their hopes but were unable to get closer to Barcelona.  The final score of 1-8 (Madrid), 0-13 (Barcelona) reflected the greater strength of the Barcelona side. 

 

AMUNT SANT VICENT!