News

MAGICIAL FRESHER FBALL WIN - SEMI-FINAL News: results

Posted On 21st Nov 2025
Posted By GAA ONE CLUB
[Galway (All Clubs) campus]
Author Damien Coleman (Development Officer)
Location Maynooth University

ATU Freshers vs. Maynooth University – Semi-Final Match Report
Result (After Extra Time): ATU 1-12 | Maynooth 0-14

ATU Freshers booked their place in the final after an extraordinary extra-time battle with Maynooth University, edging a single-point victory in a pulsating quarter-final that showcased grit, resilience, and standout individual performances. The contest had everything—momentum swings, high-pressure scoring, last-ditch defending, and a dramatic finish worthy of knockout football.
From the first whistle, it was clear that both sides had come prepared for a physical, high-intensity encounter. Maynooth settled slightly quicker, clipping over early points and forcing ATU to dig deep defensively. But it was ATU’s organisation at the back, led superbly by Tadhg Murphy (No. 2), that prevented Maynooth from turning spells of possession into goals. Murphy’s composure on the ball, aggressive tackling, and ability to break up attacks kept ATU in the contest during a heavily pressurised first half.
In centre back, Cian Rafferty (No. 6) quickly emerged as the heartbeat of the team. His aerial presence, relentless work rate, and intelligent distribution helped ATU establish a foothold as the game progressed. Rafferty’s influence grew with every minute—winning turnovers, linking defence to attack, and driving the team forward in key moments. His leadership in the middle third was vital in settling ATU after Maynooth’s early pressure.
Despite strong phases of play from both sides, neither team could fully pull away. ATU relied heavily on their defensive structure and discipline, while Maynooth threatened constantly with sharp movement and accurate point-taking. The scoreboard remained finely balanced, and by the time the final whistle blew on normal time, the sides were inseparable, sending the match into a tense period of extra time.
Extra time brought out the very best in ATU. Their fitness, organisation, and mentality shone through when it mattered most. The pivotal moment arrived when ATU broke through for the only goal of the game—a decisive, brilliantly worked move that gave them the narrow edge they desperately needed. With both teams continuing to trade points, that goal ultimately separated the sides.
But the victory would not have been possible without the heroics of Sean Gilmartin, who delivered a goalkeeper’s performance of the highest quality. Throughout the match—and especially in extra time—Gilmartin produced crucial saves, commanded his square with confidence, and repeatedly relieved pressure with his accurate kick-outs. In the dying stages, when Maynooth surged forward in search of an equaliser, Gilmartin stood tall, making a superb late intervention that preserved ATU’s slender advantage. The final score—ATU 1-12, Maynooth 0-14—reflected the razor-thin margins in a thrilling contest. ATU’s ability to deliver under pressure, combined with standout displays from Rafferty, Murphy, and Gilmartin, proved the difference on a day when every possession, tackle, and score mattered.
As the final whistle echoed across the pitch, ATU’s players and supporters celebrated a hard-earned and deeply impressive Semi-final win. With momentum building and belief growing, the Freshers now march into the final full of confidence—and fully aware that performances like this can carry them even further.
A night of character. A night of courage. A night ATU won’t soon forget.

REPORT: Laoise O Shea (Lead PRO One Club Model)


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