Etihad Airways, in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority, was proud to present the winning trophy to PJ Ryan, Leinster’s captain at the M.Donnelly Interprovincial Hurling Championship final held at the weekend at the Ghantoot Racing and Polo Club.

Despite Connacht’s strong fight in the first half, Leinster came back strongly to 1-2 in a blistering opening to the second half, putting them back in charge and helping them shake off a resolute Connacht challenge.

With man of the match Eoin Quigley impressing in the midfield and Henry Shefflin, Eddie Brennan and JJ Delaney all shining, Leinster controlled the early exchanges of the second period and ended the keenly contested match with a 3-18 win.

The crowd turnout on the day was excellent with more than 1,200 spectators cheering on both teams. The trophy presentation was attended by HE Saeed Bin Hofan Al Mansori on behalf on His Highness Sheikh Falah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of Ghantoot Racing & Polo Club.

Peter Baumgartner, Etihad Airways’ executive vice president marketing and product, said: “We are thrilled by the success of the M.Donnelly Interprovincial Hurling championship. The weather was glorious, the family picnic area was full of children and parents relaxing and enjoying the activities we put on and it was great to see the amount of supporters that came to watch both Leinster and Connacht in the final.

“It was a great showcase for our partners in both Abu Dhabi and Ireland and we are grateful to everyone for their support.”

PJ Ryan, captain of Leinster was ecstatic with the victory: “Winning the Inter-Provincial Championship Final means so much to us. It wasn’t an easy game and Connacht put up a strong fight in the early stages; but my team showed the determination that we’re known for and we managed to set up a clear lead by the second half. The atmosphere was great and it was marvellous to see so many supporters come to see us play here in the UAE.”

In a warm-up hurling match, Dubai Celts beat Na Fianna but perhaps the most surprising result of the day was Michael Touhey’s win for the Rest of the World over Stewart Blan from Ireland in the Poc Fada challenge. Poc Fada is a hurling challenge to hit a sliotar (ball) with a hurley (stick) as far as you can. Each competitor has three attempts. Touhey’s best shot was 96 yards.

Further information is available at www.etihadhurling.com.>

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