Drumree 2-13 Kildalkey 0-13

Drumree opened their 2026 campaign with an impressive six-point victory over Kildalkey on Saturday afternoon. While the rain thankfully stayed away, the pitch was heavy underfoot which made for a demanding contest throughout.  

From the start it was clear this would be a physical affair. Both sides brought plenty of intensity to the game and there were several robust exchanges along the way, making it the type of lively early-season contest that certainly kept everyone warm on the sidelines.

Drumree were quick out of the blocks and claimed the opening score of the game to settle early. The first half developed into a very competitive battle, with both sides trading scores at regular intervals. Drumree struck an early blow when Jamie Rattigan found the net with a well-taken goal from play, giving the visitors an important lift.

Kildalkey responded with a steady run of points to keep the pressure on, but Drumree continued to match them score for score. A second goal arrived midway through the half when Dan Morris calmly dispatched a penalty to the net, helping Drumree maintain their foothold in the game. Further points from Paul Walsh, Brendan Walsh, Sean Kilcoyne and Morris ensured Drumree stayed right in the contest as they held a narrow one-point advantage at half time.

The second half continued in a similar fashion. Drumree gradually began to assert more control, with Morris continuing to punish any fouls from placed balls while Brendan Walsh also contributed valuable scores in attack.

At the back, Drumree produced a solid defensive display with Aidan Fraher particularly impressive. Fraher was strong and composed throughout, dealing well with Kildalkey’s attacks and providing a commanding presence.

Drumree made a number of changes during the second half. David Malone and Jack Mahon were introduced, with Mahon finding his way to the scoresheet. Fresh legs were also provided by Eoin Hannon, Charlie Doolan, Rohan Tuite and Padraig Clinton as Drumree continued to work hard across the pitch.

As the game entered the closing stages, Drumree maintained their composure, continuing to pick off scores to keep Kildalkey at arm’s length before the final whistle confirmed a deserved 2-13 to 0-13 victory.

There was also a proud moment for the club with four players making their adult hurling debuts. David Fagan, Josh Copeland, Rohan Tuite and Dan Morris all lined out at this level for the first time and each played their part in the team’s performance. It was excellent to see new faces stepping up and making their mark, ensuring the established players remain firmly on their toes.

Overall, Drumree can be very happy with their first outing of the year. In difficult conditions and against determined opposition, they showed plenty of grit, determination and quality – a very encouraging start to the 2026 season.

Drumree: Cillian Teeling, Jeff Wall (0-1 play), Darragh Walsh, Sean Kennedy, Darren Lawless, Aidan Fraher, Killian Gavin, Niall Gavin, Paul Walsh (0-1 from play), Brendan Walsh (0-3, 1p,2f), Cian Teeling, Keelan Taylor, Jamie Rattigan (1-1 from play), Sean Kilcoyne (0-2 from play), Dan Morris (1-4, 1 pen, 0-4 from frees)

Subs: Jack Mahon (0-1 from play), Padraig Clinton, David Malone, Eoin Hannon, Charlie Doolan, Johnny O’Connor, David Fagan, Josh Copeland, Rohan Tuite, Joe O’Brien, Rob Holohan,

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