Seven days before Christmas 2022, Ballygunner’s All-Ireland title defence came up a goal short against fierce rivals Ballyhale. Nine days before Christmas 2023, and at the very same semi-final stage, they were physically unnerved by St Thomas’ in-your-face approach. And so, as you can imagine, there wasn’t a whole pile of festive cheer during the three most recent Christmases out Ballygunner direction. I remember going to the games at their age myself and now there's an All-Ireland final in Croke Park to look forward to over Christmas. Point after point from Ballygunner.

Source: Irish Examiner December 23, 2025 08:42 UTC