Erne Eagles completed an unbeaten day at Liam Mellows GAA Club on Saturday, coming from behind to defeat an eight-player Kilmore side 11–10 in an exciting Connacht Cup final.

Kilmore looked on course to take the title, but the Eagles found a way back into the game with their final bat and edged a closely fought final to lift the Cup.

It was a fitting finish to a day of Rounders in Galway, where sunshine, a scenic setting and competitive games made for an enjoyable occasion at Liam Mellows. Twelve group matches were followed by three finals, with silverware also heading to Galway City Rapparees and Athenry.

Eagles make unbeaten start

Erne Eagles’ mixed team travelled to Galway looking to add more silverware to their season and began their campaign against newly formed Clontuskert in the club’s first competitive tournament.

The Eagles won their opening game before defeating a strong Galway City Rapparees Black & Yellow side. Their final group match against Elphin was a tight contest, but the Eagles came out on top again.

Three wins from three sent Erne Eagles through to the Cup final, where they met Kilmore for the second time in the space of a week. The sides had also faced each other in the Ulster Cup final, with the Eagles winning that contest.

Eagles fight back to edge Kilmore

Despite playing with eight players, Kilmore put themselves in a strong position and looked to have the title within their grasp.

The Eagles had a fantastic top of the last, and produced the runs they needed to turn the game around. Their comeback secured a 9–7 victory and added the Connacht Cup to the club’s silverware.

For Kilmore, the Junior Mixed All-Ireland champions, it was a performance to be proud of against the Senior Men’s champions.

Rapparees and Athenry claim silverware

The Shield final was an all-Galway City Rapparees affair, with GCR Black & Yellow overcoming clubmates GCR Pink Pony Club to take the honours.

The two Rapparees teams had been mixed for the competition, giving players a chance to line out in different combinations and enjoy a competitive day.

Athenry also had reason to celebrate, beating Elphin in the Plate final to round off a successful day for the Galway club.

A first for Clontuskert

The Connacht Cup marked an important moment for Clontuskert, who played their first competitive Rounders matches after beginning their journey earlier this year.

Taking to the field against established clubs gave the newcomers valuable experience and another step forward as they continue to develop.

Kilmeena were also involved in the day’s action, while St Clare’s were unable to attend after withdrawing late.

A day to celebrate Rounders

Liam Mellows GAA Club provided the venue for the tournament, with thanks due to everyone at the club for their support in the lead-up to the event and throughout the day.

Thanks also went to the Connacht GAA Rounders committee, including Mark Jennings and Shirley Lennon for their help with the organisation, as well as the referees, players, supporters and everyone who travelled or contributed.

From Erne Eagles’ unbeaten run to Clontuskert’s first competitive outing, the 2026 Connacht Cup offered plenty to celebrate and brought the Rounders community together for an enjoyable day in Galway.