Westmeath School Completes Remarkable Turnaround

Croke Park witnessed a stunning finish to the Masita All-Ireland PPS Hogan Cup Senior A football final as Coláiste Mhuire, Mullingar, defeated Tralee CBS by a score of 3-11 to 1-16. The victory marks a historic moment for the Westmeath school, becoming only the second from the county to lift the Hogan Cup, following Carmelite College, Moate in 1981.

Late Drama Seals Victory

The match hung in the balance until the final moments. After Gearóid White put Tralee CBS ahead with less than five minutes remaining, it appeared the Kerry side was poised for victory. Though, Coláiste Mhuire responded with a leveling point from Finn Higgins before Will Scahill kicked the winning point in the 63rd minute.

“Truth be told, we never thought we would get here, this wasn’t on our cards,”

Dean McNicholas, Coláiste Mhuire manager

The Westmeath team had previously surrendered a six-point halftime lead, demonstrating remarkable resilience to secure the win.

From Championship Struggles to All-Ireland Champions

The turnaround for Coláiste Mhuire is particularly noteworthy. Manager Dean McNicholas revealed the school had endured a period of significant struggle.

“I suppose for three or four years on the trot, we didn’t win a game in the Championship. Then last year came about.”

Dean McNicholas, Coláiste Mhuire manager

Last season saw them claim their second Leinster Senior A title, which they successfully defended in 2026, setting the stage for their historic All-Ireland triumph.

Key Performances and Individual Brilliance

Michael Moloney was named player of the match, delivering a performance of 1-2, matching the tally of match-winner Will Scahill. Máirtín McKivergan was a standout performer for Tralee CBS, scoring four points, including a two-pointer, after a difficult start for his team.

Coláiste Mhuire scorers included W Scahill and M Moloney (1-2 each), C Cleary (1-0), P Keating (0-3), S McWade, K Loughlin, M Weir, and F Higgins (0-1 each).

Tralee CBS scorers were M McKivergan (1 tpf), R Carroll (0-4, 3 frees), C McKenna (1-0), N Lacey (0-3), G White and E O’Flaherty (0-2 each), and T O’Connor (0-1).

FAQ

• Who won the 2026 Hogan Cup? Coláiste Mhuire, Mullingar.
• What was the final score? Coláiste Mhuire 3-11, Tralee CBS 1-16.
• Who scored the winning point? Will Scahill.
• When was the match played? March 17, 2026.