Ulster Council GAA

- Saturday, March 29 -

Allianz National Football League Division Two
Cavan 0-13 Cork 0-12

Seanie Johnston was the star of the show as Cavan claimed a 0-13 to 0-12 victory over Cork at Kingspan Breffni Park on Saturday evening in the Allianz National Football League.

The tricky forward popped over nine points to earn the Man of the Match award and stand out in a tight game that went right to the final minute of play.

With tough conditions facing both sides, there was a worry that the game might not be as exciting or action-packed as it could have been – but those fears were allayed when Johnston opened the scoring in the second minute.

It was quite a nip and tuck encounter throughout with both teams taking slender leads and the scores constantly being brought back to a level pegging, so it was always going to take a big performance from one individual to swing this one.

Johnston was the man who stepped up to take that responsibilty, but he was rivalled for the position by midfielder Dermot McCabe, who put in an excellent display.

Cork had plenty of positive points to take from this match with Donnacha O’Connor, Fintan Gould, and Daniel Goulding all standing out for The Rebels in attack.

The Breffni Men matched the visitors for strength, determination, and skill as they racked up an impressive array of scores to keep them in contention throughout this blustery game.

One of the most pleasing things for Cavan supporters would have been the decision-making by their players on the pitch. For example, when Johnston was presented with a half chance in front of posts he took an extra step and popped a point over rather than going for goal.

This was the type of things that the men wearing blue jerseys did all night and it really allowed them to push Cork right back into their own half. Then with precise kicking they started to convert key scores.

As the game went on, it looked like it would end in a draw with the sides level heading towards added time. But that man Johnston was again on hand to put his side in front with possibly the best score of the night.

Overall, it was a deserved victory for the home team and they will take a lot of confidence from this as they look to avoid relegation.

—

- Sunday, March 30 -

Allianz National Football League Division One
Galway 3-9 Derry 0-13

Galway ran out comfortable winners against Derry in a one-sided Allianz National Football League Division One clash at Salthill on Sunday.

While Galway enjoyed fine performances from Padraig Joyce, Michael Meehan and Matthew Clancy, Derry talisman Paddy Bradley had a forgettable afternoon.

The Tribesman started the brightest, with Joe Bergin forcing a fine save from John Deighan inside the first minute. Clancy opened the scoring a minute later before Fiachra Breathneach doubled their advantage after seven.

Enda Muldoon replied for Derry with a fine score, before Mark Lynch levelled matters with a beautiful long-range effort. Lynch then had his powerful goal-bound shot deflected over the bar by the retreating Damien Burke. It would be the only time that Derry would lead in the match.

After 16 minutes Padraig Joyce played in Breathnach who was hauled down in the box, although it could be argued the forward went down quite easily under the challenge. Michael Meehan made no mistake from the spot. The goal lifted Galway.

Soon afterwards wing back Gary Sice collected a high ball and soloed 60 yards with the ball before earning his side a free. It seemed to inspire the rest of the side. Meehan knocked over the resulting free and Galway were cruising.

Conleith Gilligan, one of Derry’s better performers on the day, pulled a point back before Niall Coleman restored Galway’s three-point lead. Eoin Bradley gave the Oakleaf County some hope with a fine point, however it would be Galway who would finish the half the stronger.

Meehan played in Matthew Clancy with a fine pass but the corner forward’s shot was tipped over the bar by Deighan. The goalkeeper then came to his team’s rescue once again when Sice had his effort blocked down. Galway lead at the break by a score of 1-5 to 0-5.

Derry needed to start the second half brightly but again Galway came out of the dressing rooms more fired up. Meehan should have extended Galway’s lead when, off balance, his shot trickled just wide of the post.

Paddy Bradley, who up to now had seen little of the ball, was brought out to the half forward line in an effort to become more involved in the game. Unfortunately for Derry the switch would have little impact.

Eoin Bradley and Meehan swapped points, before Joyce showed just why he is regarded as being one of the country’s best finishers. The chance seemed to have been lost, but Joyce swivelled, beat his marker, and unleashing an unstoppable shot past Deighan. After ten minutes of the second half it was Galway 2-6 Derry 0-6.

Conway and Gilligan scored two points apiece for Tyrone, either side of a Joe Bergin point. It was only a mini-revival. The tie was effectively over on 63 minutes following the move of the match. Sean Armstrong, who had replaced Breathneach at the end of the first half, found Nicky Joyce. Joyce’s quick hand pass inside released Michael Clancy.

The wing forward coolly slotted the ball past Deighan. Two minutes later Meehan’s placed ball sailed over the bar. Derry responded with late points from Eunan O’Kane and Muldoon, but they were little more than consolation scores.

While Galway enjoyed fine performances from Padraig Joyce, Michael Meehan and Matthew Clancy, Derry talisman Paddy Bradley had a forgettable afternoon.

The Tribesman started the brightest. Joe Bergin forcing a fine save from John Deighan inside the first minute. Clancy opened the scoring a minute later before Fiachra Breathneach doubled their advantage after seven.

Enda Muldoon replied for Tyrone with a fine score, before Mark Lynch levelled matters with a beautiful long-range effort. Lynch then had his powerful goal bound shot deflected over the bar by the retreating Damien Burke. It would be the only time that Derry would lead in the match.

After 16 minutes Padraig Joyce played in Breathnach who was hauled down in the box, although it could be argued the forward went down quite easily under the challenge. Michael Meehan made no mistake from the spot. The goal lifted Galway.

Soon afterwards wing back Gary Spice collected a high ball and soloed 60 yards with the ball before earning his side a free. It seemed to inspire the rest of the side. Meehan knocked over the resulting free and Galway were cruising.

Conleith Gilligan, one of Derry’s better performers on the day, pulled a point back before Niall Coleman restored Galway’s three point lead. Eoin Bradley gave the Oakleaf County some hope with a fine point, however it would be Galway who would finish the half the stronger.

Meehan played in Matthew Clancy with a fine pass but the corner forward’s shot was tipped over the bar by Deighan. The goalkeeper then came to his team’s rescue once again when Sice had his effort blocked down. Galway lead at the break by a score of 1-5 to 0-5.

Derry needed to start the second half brightly but again Galway came out of the dressing rooms more fired up. Meehan should have extended Galway’s lead when, off balance, his shot trickled just wide of the post.

Paddy Bradley, who up to now had seen little of the ball, was brought out to the half forward line in an effort to become more involved in the game. Unfortunately for Derry the switch would have little impact.

Eoin Bradley and Meehan swapped points, before Joyce showed just why he is regarded as being one of the country’s best finishers. The chance seemed to have been lost, but Joyce swivelled, beat his marker, and unleashing an unstoppable shot past Deighan. After ten minutes of the second half it was Galway 2-6 Derry 0-6.

Conway and Gilligan scored two points apiece for Tyrone, either side of a Joe Bergin point. It was only a mini-revival. The tie was effectively over on 63 minutes following the move of the match. Sean Armstrong, who had replaced Breathneach at the end of the first half, found Nicky Joyce. Joyce’s quick hand pass inside released Michael Clancy.

The wing forward coolly slotted the ball past Deighan. Two minutes later Meehan’s placed ball sailed over the bar. Derry responded with late points from Eunan O’Kane and Muldoon, but they were little more than consolation scores.

Derry: John Deighan, Kevin McGuckin, Kevin McCloy, Francis McEldowney; Liam Hinphey, Mickey McBride, Michael McIver; Enda Muldoon (0-02), James Conway (0-02); Mark Lynch (0-02), Paul Murphy, Barry McGoldrick; Conleith Gilligan (0-03, 2f), Paddy Bradley, Eoin Bradley (0-02).
Subs: Mickey Friel for P Murphy, Colin Devlin for E Bradley, Gerard O’Kane (0-01) for M McBride, Joe Diver (0-01) for M Lynch, Joe Keenan for M McIver.

—

Allianz National Football League Division One
Tyrone 0-11 Donegal 0-9

Tyrone ran out two-point winners over Ulster rivals Donegal in a bruising Allianz National Football League Division One clash at Edendork on Sunday afternoon.

The intimate county Tyrone venue hosted the clash after Saturday night’s original fixture was rescheduled due to a waterlogged pitch in Omagh.

The home side led by 0-6 to 0-5 at half-time, and they edged ahead to steal two valuable points at the very end of the game.

The introduction of Brian McGuigan as a second half substitute steadied the Tyrone midfield, but Donegal were unfortunate not to get something from the game after levelling matters with just four minutes remaining.

However, a late free from Tommy McGuigan edged them in front and the excellent Enda McGinley grabbed the insurance point in injury time.

The Red Hands opened the scoring after just two minutes when Tommy McGuigan sent over a sublime effort from a sideline kick.

However, Donegal hit back through Rory Canavan and Kevin Rafferty to take an early lead.

Tyrone corner back Ryan McMenamin popped up in attack to score an unexpected point, while Colm McFadden and Ryan Bradley hit back for Donegal.

McFadden and Bradley were on target again for the National League champions before a brace from Niall Gormley brought Tyrone back on terms.

Tyrone full-forward Sean O’Neill should have made the game safe soon after, but his attempt on goal went badly wide.

However, two late points were enough to seal the win for Mickey Harte’s side.

—

Allianz National Football League Division Two
Monaghan 1-12 Meath 0-10

Monaghan go clear at the top of Allianz NFL Division Two after a 1-12 to 0-10 victory over Meath at Scotstown on Sunday.

The tie was moved from Clones due to a waterlogged pitch and throw-in was delayed for 15 minutes because of crowd congestion, but the Ulster side did not allow themselves to be distracted from the task in hand.

They started brightly. Rory Woods opened their account; however Stephen Bray levelled matters shortly after. A Paul Finlay goal put the hosts ahead by 1-2 to 0-1 at the end of the first quarter.

The Banty Boys, playing a two-man full forward line of Tommy Freeman and Vincent Corey, never looked back.

Rory Woods and Freeman (0-4) were outstanding whereas Bray’s point was the Royals’ only score from play in the first half. Cian Ward did manage to add three frees but the Leinster side trailed by 1-7 to 0-4 at half time.

The second half saw Ward converting two more frees but they were really struggling to open up Monaghan from open play.

Corey responded for Monaghan with two points of his own, before Eoin Lennon and Stephen Gollogly chipped in with a point apiece.

Monaghan have grown as a team following their heartbreaking All-Ireland semi-final defeat to Kerry last year, however their fellow semi-finalists Meath seem to be going in the opposite direction.

—

Allianz National Football League Division Three
Sligo 0-14 Fermanagh 0-17

Fermanagh stay on top of Division Three following their three-point victory over Sligo in Markievicz Park. The game finished Sligo 0-14 Fermanagh 0-17.

—

Allianz National Football League Division Four
London 0-5 Antrim 3-19

Sunday turned out to be a very successful day for Antrim footballers, as their win over London coupled with Tipperary’s defeat by Carlow puts the Saffrons in a very strong position to earn promotion out of Division 4.

It was all too easy for the rampant Saffrons in Ruislip as they recorded a runaway 23 point win, a result which will do their scoring averages no harm at all.

Playing against the wind in the opening half Antrim struggled a little, and only led by 0-8 to 0-4 at half-time, thanks mainly to the accuracy of Paddy Cunningham.

However after the change of ends Antrim took complete control as they game turned into a Saffron procession.

Thomas McCann, who ended up top scorer with a goal and five points, maintained his good recent form for both county and UUJ when he fired in his team’s opening goal.
Benny Hasson fired in number two and eight minutes from the end Justin Crozier soloed through from the half-back line to score a superb individual goal.

The news of Tipperary’s defeat to Carlow at Dr Cullen Park added further cheer to the Saffron camp, a result which means Antrim can clinch promotion, and a place in the Division 4 final, if they can win away in Tipperary next weekend.

Antrim: Sean McGreevy, James Loughrey, Andy McClean, Kevin OBoyle, Tony Scullion, Sean Kelly (capt), Justin Crozier, Joe Quinn, Aodhan Gallagher, Benny Hasson, Michael McCann, Terry O’Neill, Thomas McCann, Kevin Niblock, Paddy Cunningham.
Subs: Conlieth Totten, Conal Kelly, Sean Burke, Eoin O’Neill, Paul Doherty.

(Report: antrim.gaa.ie)

—

Allianz National Hurling League Division 3
Tyrone 1-12 Longford 2-6

This entry was posted on Monday, March 31st, 2008 at 9:05 am and is filed under Homepage News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

Down and Derry will meet in the final of the Cadbury’s Ulster U21 Football Championship on Saturday 5th April at Casement Park (2.00pm), following very different semi-final victories over Tyrone and Donegal respectively.

Down 0-14 v 0-13 Tyrone

Down recovered from a slow start to edge out Tyrone by the narrowest of margins in an enthralling encounter at Casement Park.

The 2005 All-Ireland MFC champions got off to a terrible start as the O’Neill County raced to a 0-03 to no score lead following points from Ronan McRory (2) and Cathal McCarron. They had an opportunity to further extend their lead, but Jason McAnulla’s penalty was well saved by Michael McAllister.

Down responded with points from Paul McComiskey (4) and midfielder Kevin McKernan to draw level, but Sean O’Neill sent Tyrone in with a one point lead at the break.
Shortly after the break, James Colgan leveled for Down and they pushed on to a 0-11 to 0-08 lead, before Tyrone responded with 4 points to re-take the lead.

Livewire corner forward Paul McComiskey fired over another two points to bring his personal tally to 0-06, and another from McKernan ensured to Mourne Men’s passage into the Ulster Final.

Down: M. McAllister, M. Digney, C. Murray, H. Magee; C. Garvey, K. Duffin, T. Hanna, James Colgan 0-1, K. McKernan 0-4; C. Maginn 0-1, C. Magee 0-1, E. Toner, C. Brannigan 0-1, R. Kelly, Paul McComiskey 0-6.
Subs – J. Caldwell for E. Toner; J. Murphy for H. Magee; S. Grant for T. Hanna.

Tyrone: G. Kelly, N. McGinn, C. McCarron, H. Gallagher; C. McGinley, Sean O’Neill 0-1, D. McBride, A. Cassidy, S. O’Hagan 0-1; G. Devlin 0-2, C. Cavanagh 0-2, J. McAnulla, R. McRory 0-3, J. Lafferty 0-2, C. McCarron 0-1.
Subs – Conor O’Donnell 0-1 for C. McCarron; Damien McDermott for D. McBride and Shane McMahon for H. Gallagher.

Ref – G. Walsh (Antrim)

Derry 4-13 v 0-07 Donegal

Derry found the going at Healy Park much easier as they cruised to a facile win over Donegal in the other semi-final of the Cadbury’s Ulster U21 Football Championship.

The game was completely dominated by Derry from the start as they surged to a 2-05 to 0-04 lead by half-time, and the game was all but over after they added a further 1-03 shortly after the break.

Ryan Kealy put the final nail in the coffin with his second goal of the game in the closing minutes to set up the final clash with Down.

Derry: M. O’Neill; D. Bell, N. Holly, M. McShane; B. Og McAlary 0-1, C. McKaigue, D. McBride, M. Craig 0-1, B. Gormley; James Kielt 0-5, Ryan Kealey 2-0, S. L. McGoldrick, P. McWilliams, E. Lynn 1-2, E. Brown 1-3.
Subs – D. McEldowney 0-1 from a free for Lynn, C. Lynch for D. Bell.

Donegal: M. Boyle, D. Walsh, M. McPaul, M. McGowan; D. Gallagher, S. McGowan, P. Witherow, L. McLoone, G. McFadden 0-2; M. McElhinney 0-1, C. Murrin, P. McGinley 0-1, B. Faherty 0-1, C. Murrin, P. McGinley 0-1.
Subs – R. Wherity for Waide, G. Ward for Faherty, F. McNulty for McLoone, E. Hegarty for McPaul and D. Gavigan for Murren.

Ref – M. Higgins (Fermanagh)

This entry was posted on Thursday, March 27th, 2008 at 1:21 pm and is filed under Homepage News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

The country’s footballers face a very busy schedule over the next three weekends as the Allianz League builds towards an exciting climax. Round 5, which is often decisive in terms of establishing important trends will take place in Divisions 1,2,3 next weekend while it’s Round 6 in the 9-team Division 4 group.

Division 1: Top Two Clash in Pearse Stadium

Saturday 29^th March (7.00pm)
Tyrone v Donegal @ Omagh
Laois v Kerry @ Portlaoise.

Sunday 30^th March (2.30pm):
Kildare v Mayo @ Newbridge
Galway v Derry @ Pearse Stadium.

Five points separate top from bottom in a group that was always going to be extremely competitive. Galway and Derry are level on six points at the top of the table so their clash in Pearse Stadium on Sunday will be one of the highlights of the day. Derry have a good record against Galway in the League in recent years but Galway (three wins from four games) have shown promising form under new manager, Liam Sammon so far, even if they did lose by a point to Donegal last time out.

Donegal are also on six points while Tyrone, whom they meet in Omagh on Saturday night are three points back but showed improved form when beating Laois last Saturday week. A Tyrone win would put Donegal back on track to challenge for a strong finish while a Donegal win would leave them very well placed as they seek to retain the League crown, won for the first time last year. Amazingly, all four of Donegal’s games so far have been one-pointers. They beat Kerry, Mayo and Galway by a point and lost to Kildare by the minimum.

Kildare and Mayo, both of whom are on three points, meet in a crucial clash at Newbridge. Kildare were well beaten by Derry in Round 4 while Mayo gave their season a huge impetus by beating Kerry by a point. Laois are the only team in the group still waiting for their first win, a task that will prove very difficult at home to Kerry on Saturday night. Laois have one point on the board so it’s vital to pick up a win if they are to begin the climb away from the relegation zone. Kerry have won two and lost two of their four games so far.

Round 6: Kerry v Kildare; Derry v Tyrone; Mayo v Galway; Donegal v Laois.

Round 7: Tyrone v Mayo; Donegal v Derry; Laois v Kildare; Galway v Kerry.

Division 2: Top Four Meet in Crucial Clashes

Saturday 29^th March (7.30pm):
Cavan v Cork @ Kingspan Breffni Park.

Sunday 30^th March (2.30pm):
Roscommon v Westmeath @ Dr. Hyde Park
Armagh v Dublin @ Crossmaglen
Monaghan v Meath @ Clones

It’s 1 v 3 and 2 v 4 in next weekend’s crucial series of ties. Monaghan (7 points) top the table from Dublin on scoring difference and will be at home to third placed Meath (5 points) on Sunday while second placed Dublin (7pts) will be away to fourth placed Armagh (4pts) in Crossmaglen). Westmeath and Cork are also on four points so it’s tight between the top six but there’s a gap back to Roscommon (one point) and Cavan, who together with London and Kilkenny, are the only teams in the League not to have picked up a point yet. Indeed, if Cavan lose to Cork, relegation will be inevitable if results above them go a certain way. Cavan will be at home to resurgent Cork on Saturday night while, Roscommon who are in relegation trouble too, will also have home advantage against Westmeath. Monaghan and Dublin remain the only unbeaten sides in the group and if they both win on Sunday they will have taken a giant step towards promotion. From a Meath viewpoint, it’s vital that they beat Monaghan because otherwise they will be four points adrift with two rounds remaining. It’s equally important for Armagh to beat Dublin if they are to stay in the promotion hunt.

Round 6: Cork v Monaghan; Dublin v Roscommon; Meath v Armagh; Westmeath v Cavan.

Round 7: Armagh v Cork; Dublin v Meath; Roscommon v Cavan; Monaghan v Westmeath.

Division 3: Fermanagh Defend Group’s only 100% Record

Saturday 29^th March (7.00pm):
Down v Limerick @ Newry.

Sunday 30^th March (2.30pm):
Sligo v Fermanagh @ Markievicz Park
Longford v Louth @ Pearse Park
Wexford v Leitrim @ Wexford Park.

Fermanagh’s first two games may have fallen victim to the weather but it hasn’t discommoded them in any way as they top the table with four straight wins, leaving them with the only 100 per cent record in the group. Meanwhile, their next rivals, Sligo are struggling at the bottom end of the table, just one place above Leitrim (on scoring difference) having won just one of four games. It’s a worrying time for the Connacht champions who badly need to start picking up points if they are to avoid the drop to Division 4. Wexford have won seven of eight points and with home advantage against bottom side, Leitrim, they will be confident of keeping on track for promotion.

It has been a disappointing League so far for Louth and Longford (one win each) so their clash at Pearse Park is absolutely crucial to both. Third placed Down have high hopes of promotion and will be hoping to strengthen their claim at home to Limerick on Saturday night.

Round 6: Fermanagh v Wexford; Limerick v Longford; Leitrim v Down; Louth v Sligo.

Round 7: Down v Fermanagh; Limerick v Leitrim; Longford v Sligo; Wexford v Louth.

Division 4: Offaly & Antrim well Primed for Promotion

Sunday 30^th March (2.30pm):
Carlow v Tipperary @ Dr. Cullen Park
Offaly v Waterford @ Tullamore
London v Antrim @ Ruislip
Clare v Wicklow @ Ennis.

Offaly and Antrim have opened a three point gap at the top of the table and look highly likely to maintain – if not extend – it on Sunday. Offaly, who have hit 13-71 in five games so far, will be at home to Waterford while Antrim travel to Ruislip to take on a London team that has conceded 10-61 in four games. Tipperary are currently in third place on the table but face a tough test away to Carlow while Wicklow and Clare, both of whom had high hopes of being promotion contenders, have fallen away. Wicklow, who have also disappointed, are two points clear of Clare as they prepare for Sunday’s trip to Ennis.

Round 7: Tipperary v Antrim; Carlow v Waterford; Offaly v Kilkenny; London v Wicklow.

Round 8: Waterford v Tipperary; Kilkenny v London; Wicklow v Carlow; Clare v Offaly.

Round 9: Tipperary v Wicklow; Carlow v Kilkenny; Antrim v Waterford; London v Clare.

2008 Allianz National Football League Results to Date

Division 1
Round 1
Feb 2: Donegal 1-8 Kerry 1-7; Derry 2-9 Mayo 1-9; Tyrone 0-7 Kildare 1-4
Feb 3: Galway 0-15 Laois 1-9.

Round 2
Feb 16: Kerry 0-12 Tyrone 0-9; Derry 2-12 Laois 1-9
Feb 17: Galway 1-12 Kildare 2-8; Donegal 2-11 Mayo 0-16

Round 3
Mar 1: Laois 1-13 Mayo 1-13
Mar 2: Galway 1-14 Tyrone 2-9; Kerry 0-10 Derry 0-9; Kildare 0-12 Donegal 0-11.

Round 4
Mar15/16: Donegal 1-12 Galway 1-11; Derry 1-16 Kildare 0-8; Tyrone 0-16 Laois 0-14; Mayo 0-16 Kerry 1-12

Division 2
Round 1
Dublin 1-7 Westmeath 1-5; Meath v Cork – not played (points awarded to Meath); Feb 3: Monaghan 1-18 Roscommon 1-8; Armagh 0-14 Cavan 1-10.

Round 2
Monaghan 2-12 Cavan 0-10; Cork v Dublin – not played (points awarded to Dublin)
Roscommon 1-12 Meath 0-15; Westmeath 1-11 Armagh 1-6

Round 3
Mar 1: Dublin 1-9 Cavan 0-7
Mar 2: Cork 1-14 Roscommon 0-15; Monaghan 1-11 Armagh 1-10; Westmeath 1-10 Meath 0-8.

Round 4
Mar 15/16: Dublin v Cavan – postponed due to ground conditions; Armagh 4-20 Roscommon 0-8; Cork 0-11 Westmeath 0-9; Meath 0-15 Cavan 0-13.

Division 3
Round 1
Feb 2: Down 1-12 Sligo 2-5; Feb 3: Limerick 1-10 Louth 0-9; Wexford 3-8 Longford 1-9; Mar 9 (Postponed on Feb 3 due to pitch conditions): Fermanagh 3-10 Leitrim 2-9.

Round 2
Feb 16: Longford 2-10 Leitrim 0-6; Down 1-14 Louth 2-10; Wexford 0-14 Sligo 0-13; Mar 22: Fermanagh 0-14 Limerick 1-7 (Postponed on February 17 due to bad weather).

Round 3
Mar 2: Sligo 0-14 Limerick 1-10; Louth 2-17 Leitrim 2-8; Wexford 2-8 Down 0-9; Fermanagh 2-10 Longford 1-10.

Round 4
Mar 15/16: Fermanagh 0-11 Louth 0-10; Leitrim 1-12 Sligo 0-6; Limerick 1-12 Wexford 1-12; Down 0-19 Longford 0-16.

Division 4
Round 1
Feb 3: Carlow 1-12 Clare 0-10; Offaly 5-16 London 1-6; Antrim 1-13 Wicklow 1-8; Tipperary 4-20 Kilkenny 1-5.

Round 2
Feb 9: Antrim 2-25 Kilkenny 0-6; Offaly 3-19 Carlow 0-8; Wicklow 1-15 Waterford 0-12; Tipperary 0-13 Clare 1-7.

Round 3
Feb 16: Antrim 1-13 Clare 0-3; Waterford 2-9 Kilkenny 0-8; Carlow 3-10 London 1-9; Offaly 1-11 Tipperary 1-7.

Round 4
Mar 1: Antrim 0-13 Offaly 1-10
Mar 2: Wicklow 2-34 Kilkenny 0-5; Waterford 1-13 Clare 0-10; Tipperary 1-23 London 0-4.

Round 5:
Mar 15/16: Offaly 3-15 Wicklow 1-6; Clare 4-19 Kilkenny 1-4; Waterford 1-12 London 0-3; Antrim 0-13 Carlow 0-7.

This entry was posted on Wednesday, March 26th, 2008 at 12:50 pm and is filed under Homepage News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

In cold conditions at Glen Maghera, John Mitchell’s Glenullin lost their SportTracker Ulster Club League title to Shamrocks Ballinderry.

SportTracker Ulster Senior Football League Final

Ballinderry 0-13 v 0-10 Glenullin

Glenullin made the better start leading by 4 points to 1 after the end of the 1^st quarter.

The second quarter saw Ballinderry turn the game around to go in at halt time with an 8 points to 5 lead.

Conleith Gilligan the most prominent player on the field made a telling contribution during this period.

An evenly contested second half saw Ballinderry retain their three point advantage at the end of the game.

Top scorer for Glenullin was Paddy Bradley with four points, while the ‘Man of the Match’ Conleith Gilligan notched seven points for Ballinderry.

Martin McAviney, Cisteoir Comhairle Uladh presented Jarlath Bell with the Ulster Club League Trophy at the conclusion of a well contested game.

Declan Flanagan presented the ‘Man of the Match Award’ to Conleith Gilligan.

Ballinderry: Michael Conlon, Kevin McGuckin, Jarlath Bell (C), Declan Bell, Brendan Conway, Ronan McGuckin, Conor Nevin, James Conway, Enda Muldoon, Conleith Gilligan, Darren Conway, Ronan Devlin, James Bateson, Brian McGuckin, Fabien Muldoon
Subs: Raymond Wilkinson for Darren Conway, Ryan Scott for Declan Bell, Gerard Cassidy for Fabien Muldoon

Glenullin: Shane O’Kane, Barry Mullan, Brian Mullan, James McNicholl, John Heaney, John O’Kane, Gerard O’Kane, Neil Mullan, Dominic McIlvar, Conrad Bradley, Donal Boylan, Donal McNicholl, Dermot O’Kane, Paddy Bradley (C), Eoin Bradley
Subs: Eunan O’Kane for John Heaney, Stephen Mullan for Brian Mullan, Basil Rafferty for Donal McNicholl

Referee: Sean Gilsenan (Monaghan)

Related:

SportTracker Ulster Senior League Final Gallery

This entry was posted on Tuesday, March 25th, 2008 at 11:19 am and is filed under Homepage News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

- Saturday, March 22 -

Allianz National Football League Division 3
Fermanagh 0-14 Limerick 1-7

Fermanagh wrapped up a 0-14 to 1-7 triumph over Limerick in the Allianz National Football League Division 3.

The Ernesiders have won their last three games in Division 3 and made it four out of four in Lisnaskea with this win.

Mark Little converted three points, while Ciaran McElroy and Mark Murphy got two each to set them on their way to clinching an impressive victory.

Going in at the break with a 0-8 to 0-2 lead saw them grow in confidence and when they returned after the interval it was more of the same.

Eamon Maguire and Paul Ward kicked two points apiece to further extend their lead and make sure they caught up with Division 3 leaders Wexford.

A goal from Kieran O’Callaghan gave Limerick a glimmer of hope to erect a comeback, but it was too late for that to happen as Fermanagh closed the game out.

—

Allianz National Hurling League Division 2B
Down 2-16 London 1-13

Down claimed a deserved 2-16 to 0-13 win over London in an entertaining Allianaz National Hurling League Division 2B clash at Pairc Esler.

Goals from James Coyle and Gareth Johnston set The Ardsmen on their way to going level on points with Derry in the league standings.

Coyle scored his goal just before the fifteen minute mark to give the home supporters something to cheer about on a windy day.

The home team went in at break leading 1-08 to 0-8, and they knew that there was still a lot of work left to do if they were to escape with a win.

Martin Finn did well for the visitors as they tried to crawl the scores back to a level pegging, but his efforts could not stop Down from racking up more points.

Johnston scored on 67 minutes to kill the game off and secure the victory for the team wearing red and black.

—

- Sunday, March 23 -

Allianz National Football League Division 2
Dublin 1-10 Monaghan 0-13

Paul Finlay was the hero for Monaghan as his last-ditch free salvaged a point for the Farney County in a thrilling National Football League Division Two clash at Parnell Park.

In truth, however, it was Tommy Freeman who should take all the plaudits after he was fouled by Dublin’s Derek Murray to allow Finlay to take the glory at the death.

The Ulster footballer of the year contributed eight points to the Monaghan total – all of which came from frees.

Dublin led by four points with seven minutes remaining, but Bryan Cullen was sent off for a second yellow card and Monaghan managed to salvage a valuable point thanks to Freeman’s trusty boot.

Dublin finished with 13 men after Mark Vaughan was given his marching orders for his involvement in a fracas just after the break. The bleached blond Kilmacud Crokes clubman was given a straight red for a late challenge.

Monaghan led by 0-6 to 0-3 at the break after the Dublin attack had failed to click in the opening 35 minutes.

The first half was a largely forgettable affair, with only one point in total coming from play.

However, the game started in sensational fashion when Jason Sherlock bagged the opening score inside a minute, but it proved the only point from play in the first half.

Mark Vaughan doubled Dublin’s lead with a solid strike from a free in the fourth minute.

It was a fractious opening, however, and neither side managed to establish any sort of foothold in the game.

A pair of frees from Tommy Freeman and Paul Finlay – who shared the free-taking duties all afternoon – had the Farney County level on eight minutes.

Freeman had Monaghan in front for the first time a minute later, with Vaughan slotting over a quickfire equaliser for Dublin from yet another free.

Freeman tacked on two further scores from frees to put Monaghan two points up after 24 minutes.

The Farney County opened up a five-point gap just after the interval after score from Finlay and a wonderful effort from a narrow angle by substitute Stephen Gollogly.

Bizarrely, Vaughan’s sending off allied to the strong breeze proved to be the spark Dublin needed to reignite their faltering attack.

Corner back David Henry turned up in the opposition half to point brilliantly before Paul Flynn filched a goal for the Dubs with an accurate drive.

Brogan and Conal Keaney gave Dublin the lead for the first time in nearly 50 minutes on the hour mark.

Three further points from Keaney gave the Dubs a seemingly unassailable four-point lead with seven minutes remaining.

However, Monaghan proved that they will have a significant part to play in the Summer’s championship when Freeman and Finlay grabbed two further points apiece to snatch a draw at the death.

—

Allianz National Hurling League Division 1A
Kilkenny 3-22 Antrim 1-8

Pastings like this 20 point defeat don’t do counties like Antrim any good but if one looks deeper behind the 70 minutes plus of hurling witnessed at Nowlan Park, it tells a different story.

Sambo McNaughton’s Antrim team never gave up in this game and were well in contention for 35 minutes, until Kilkenny turned on the style in the second half.

Antrim’s element of surprise had already been used against Kilkenny this year in the Walsh Cup when the Saffrons came away with a one point victory in the Walsh Cup at Freshford.

However the long journey by the Saffrons again didn’t seem to matter as they hit Kilkenny hard in the opening half, a 35 minute spell that saw the sides level on five occasions.

The first goal came after 19 and a half minutes when Paddy Richmond blasted to the back of the Cats net and the Dunloy corner forward was instrumental during the game, with his ‘major’ ensuring a 1-3 to 0-4 advantage.

The sides had already been level on three occasions inside the opening quarter with Richie Hogan and Martin Comerford (2) on target for the hosts, while Karl Stewart, Paul Shiels and Liam Watson each shared a point for the visitors.

However Brian Cody’s charges responded well in the closing stages of the half and with James Ryall now dominating at midfield, and Aidan Fogarty and Richie Hogan on target, the teams entered the dressing rooms level at 1-5 to 0-8.

But that was where the similarities between these teams ended as Kilkenny went on to stage a masterclass in the second half.

A Damien Fogarty point two minutes after the restart paved the way for a prolonged purple patch for the hosts and by the time Watson opened Antrim’s second half account after 20 minutes, Kilkenny had crashed home 2-8 with the goals coming from Aidan Fogarty (47th minute) and full-forward Martin Comerford (52nd minute).

There was no way back for the visitors as Brian Cody’s men could now afford to take their foot off the pedal with the influential JJ Delaney, ‘Cha’ Fitzpatrick, Comerford and Eddie Brennan all substituted in the final quarter.

The game was capped off with two fine points from substitutes and brothers Eoin and TJ Reid deep in injury time as unbeaten Kilkenny can now look forward to a league semi-final with confidence.

Kilkenny: J McGarry; C Hickey, JJ Delaney, D Cody; J Dalton, B Hogan, PJ Delaney; J Fitzpatrick (0-2), J Ryall; R Hogan (0-7, 5f), M Fennelly, E Brennan (0-2); D Fogarty (1-3), M Comerford (1-2), A Fogarty (1-3). Subs: E Walsh for JJ Delaney (53); E McGrath for Fitzpatrick (53); E Reid (0-1) for Comerford (55); TJ Reid (0-1) for Brennan (58).

Antrim: R McGarry; A Graffin, N McGarry, S Delargy; C Herron, C Donnelly, K McKeegan; PJ O’Connell, K Stewart (0-1); P McGill, D McNaughton, L Watson (0-5, 4f); S McNaughton, P Richmond (1-1), P Shiels (0-1). Subs: B Quinn for D McNaughton (HT); S McCrory for Donnelly (64); J Campbell for P McGill (64).

Referee: Denis Richardson (Limerick)

Frees – Kilkenny 12 Antrim 18
Wides – Kilkenny 10 Antrim 9
65′s – Kilkenny 0 Antrim 0
Yellow Cards – Kilkenny 1 (Eddie Brennan) Antrim 0
Red Cards – Kilkenny 0 Antrim 0

Attendance: 1,500

—

Allianz National Hurling League Division 2B
Armagh 1-7 Meath 1-16

Meath grabbed their third win of the season with a comprehensive 1-16 to 1-7 win away to Armagh in Keady but failed to secure a semi-final slot after finishing third in the league standings.

—

Allianz National Hurling League Division 2B
Carlow 1-14 Derry 1-7

Carlow cemented their spot on top of the table with an easy 1-14 to 1-7 win over Derry, to remain unbeaten from their five matches and now advance to the semi-final stages.

—

Allianz National Hurling League Division 3
Sligo 0-13 Donegal 2-14

In Markievicz Park, Ger Dwyer scored both Donegal’s goals in a 2-14 to 0-13 win over Sligo. They top the division with four wins from four, while Sligo finish bottom with four defeats.

—

Allianz National Hurling League Division 4
Cavan 3-4 Monaghan 4-15

Monaghan cruised to a simple win away to fourth place Cavan, leaving Breffni Park with a 4-15 to 3-4 win.

South Down top the division with four wins from four, with Monaghan behind them on three wins and one defeat, ahead of Fermanagh on points difference.

—

Allianz National Hurling League Division 4
Leitrim 2-12 South Down 3-11

South Down managed a narrow win in Division Four of the National Hurling League after beating bottom side Leitrim 3-11 to 2-12 in Carrick-on-Shannon.

South Down top the division with four wins from four, with Monaghan behind them on three wins and one defeat, ahead of Fermanagh on points difference.

This entry was posted on Monday, March 24th, 2008 at 1:33 pm and is filed under Homepage News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

Bank of Ireland MacRory Cup Final:

St Patricks Dungannon 0-13 v 1-09 St Michaels Enniskillen

St Patricks’ sub Conal McGarrity scored a late point to give his school a dramatic one point victory over St Michaels Enniskillen.

The Dungannon school will now meet Athlone Community College in the All-Ireland Colleges semi-final on Saturday 22^nd March.

This final could certainly be considered a ‘game of two halves’, as St Patrick’s over-turned a 5 point half time deficit with a stunning second half performance. This comeback was inspired by Dermot Thornton, who top-scored with 7 points, 6 from frees.

St Patrick’s, Dungannon: N Morgan, B Kelly, L O’Neill, J Loughran, R Pickering, G Teague, D Toner, N McKenna 0-1, D Lavery, S Murphy 0-1, T O’Hagan 0-1, P Doherty 0-1, M McLernon 0-1, D Thornton 0-7, C Gervin.
Subs: C McGarrity 0-1 for McLernon, J Grimley for Lavery

St Michael’s, Enniskillen: M Jackson, M Quigley, M Donnelly, C Smyth, R Leonard, PJ Rodgers, N McElroy, R Jones 0-1, R O’Callaghan, M McAleer, D Keenan 0-4, B Cox 1-0, T Corrigan 0-1, C O’Brien 0-2, J O’Brien 0-1.
Subs: G Leonard for McAleer, M Maguire for J O’Brien, P Leonard for R Leonard

Referee : Jimmy McKee (Armagh).

(Picture Credit: Jim Dunne, TyroneGAA.ie)

This entry was posted on Tuesday, March 18th, 2008 at 3:33 pm and is filed under Homepage News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

The Awards were first presented in 2004 to acknowledge the achievements and commitment of individuals throughout the Association by providing formal recognition of their work for and dedication to the GAA. Among the winners are former players, coaches and officials from across the country who have contributed extensively to the GAA as well as to Handball, Ladies Football, Rounders and Camógie.

President of the GAA, Mr Nickey Brennan, extended his congratulations to the winners of the awards and paid tribute to their outstanding contributions to the Association in various capacities. He said: “This year’s winners have demonstrated in their own individual capacities the true spirit of volunteerism through their involvement with their Clubs and at County or Provincial level. The Association has always been fortunate to possess outstanding individuals who have served the Association with distinction and these awards are an opportunity to recognise the dedication and commitment of our members in a formal manner”.

The Award winners were honoured at a Banquet in Croke Park after the AIB All Ireland Club Finals on Monday March 17^th.

The 2008 President’s Award winners are:

Declan O’Neill (Tyrone)
Declan O’Neill has served the Gaelic Athletic Association in almost every conceivable capacity in a forty 40 year involvement with Dromore, St Enda’s and Tyrone. A former chairman of Tyrone County Board he has served on national committees and in recent years, he has devoted his energies to the Ulster Council, whom he continues to serve to this day.

Peter Sherry (Monaghan)
A former player, referee, club officer and County Board Chairman, he played an enormous role ensuring that all club grounds in County Monaghan had their legal formalities (Trustees, Vesting, Land Registry) brought up to date safeguarding both the use and ownership of G.A.A. property in County Monaghan. An onerous yet essential task requiring particular skills and patience, the Scotstown clubman remains deeply involved in the GAA.

Brian McEniff (Donegal)
The Bundoran man is well known for guiding Donegal to their first ever All Ireland title in 1992 and has achieved renown as an All Star winner and as a former manager of the Ireland International Rules team. As an administrator he has served as county chairman in Donegal and is currently the county’s Central Council representative. Steeped in G.A.A. culture, he remains at the coalface in his native Bundoran, where he puts his hectic business schedule to one side, to coach underage teams.

Peadar Ó Tuatáin (Derry)
Peadar has a long history of involvement in both his beloved Rounders (he is the Secretary of the Rounders Council of Ireland) and Handball at various levels and throughout his life has represented the Association with a dedication that underlines his passion, enthusiasm and voluntary commitment to the GAA.

Una Kearney(Armagh)
Una plays with the Ballymacnab Club, Armagh. She is a referee and has been refereeing for many years at club, inter-county and provincial level. She is also a Referee’s Tutor and is acting Cathaoirleach of the National Referees Committee. She continues to travel all over the county both refereeing and delivering Referees Courses and has refereed and delivered courses in London also.

Martin Mullan (Derry)
He has been involved with the Glenullin club all his life initially as a player (he won a county Championship with the club in 1985), as a long serving Chairman, a former manager of the club senior team and as a key fund raiser and activist in the development plans of the club throughout the 1980′s, 1990′s and into the new Millennium.

Seamus Dooley (New York and Monaghan)
A native of Killanny, CountyMonaghan, he has served the Monaghan Football Club and the New York G.A.A. Board in many capacities since his arrival in New York. He was most recently Chairman of the New York County Board from 2004 – 2007, a period when the Board had significant achievements including the redevelopment of Gaelic Park. Seamus has served as a selector on many New Yorkfootball teams, most notably when the Overseas Competition was won in 1998.

Tom Moynihan (Limerick)
Played hurling and football with his native club Dromin/Athlacca winning a Junior Hurling championship in 1971. He became heavily involved in Camogie when he moved to Ballyagran and trained the local girls to two All Ireland club titles. When Castletown/Ballyagran decided to develop their facilities Tom was at the fore front in fund raising and ran the club FÁS scheme.

Vincent Linnane (Kerry)
From the Ladies Walk club, Vincent is a native of County Mayo but for over twenty years he has given unstinting service to Kerry G.A.A. both as grounds man at Austin Stack Park, Tralee and in taking charge of all the gear and kit for all of Kerry’s intercounty football and hurling teams.

Michael Kelly (Galway)
An officer of the Ballindereen club for 50 years, he has served as Chairman, Treasurer and Hurling board delegate in a lifetime of service to the club. An Under 21 Hurling selector with Galwayin the 1970′s and 80′s, he also been to the forefront in the club’s impressive infrastructural developments since the 1960′s.

John Harte (Leitrim)
From the Sean O’Heslin’s G.A.A. Club in Co. Leitrim, John is the epitome of a true, committed, loyal, energetic and dedicated club member. For the past 40 years he has been involved in every aspect of the club from participating in Scór to fundraising, to the promotion of hurling and is a past Chairman of the Ballinamore club – a position that is currently held by his son Conor.

John Ryan (Longford)
A lifelong supporter of the G.A.A. at Club and County level John is always willing to help in whatever capacity he is needed, be it as gate collector, in pitch preparation, fundraising and so on. He is currently Assistant Treasurer of the Ballymahon GAA club.

Fr. Moling Lennon (Carlow and Kildare)
A native of Cournellan, Borris in South Carlow, he has spent all his life involved in G.A.A. activities initially as a teacher in Knockbeg College where he spent 23 years, looking after G.A.A. teams. A distinguished playing career saw him win county hurling and football championships in Carlow in the 1950′s. A former Chairman of the Leinster Colleges Council he was also Chairman of Carlow County Board in the 1980′s and was involved as a selector with various county football and hurling teams. On moving to Kildare, he became involved with the Naas GAA club and was later a selector with the Kildare county team in the early 90′s.

Mick Fitzgerald (Kerry)
Galway native Mick Fitzgerald is the most successful manager in the history of Ladies Football and having steered Kerry to a famous nine in a row he entered the Ladies GAA Hall of Fame (2004). Mick, who has been heavily involved in the administrative side of Ladies Football as a former President of the Association (1982-1985) and treasurer for 21 years has been one of the outstanding servants of the game.

Brendan Falvey (Kerry)
A member of the Ballymacelligott Handball Club in Kerry, he has been the County Handball P.R.O. since 1998, and led the promotion of handball at national level for many years. He launched the Ballymacelligott Website some years ago, and his work as County P.R.O. has helped to bring handball in Kerry to the fore.

Jimmy Connor (Mayo)
Jimmy will be honoured for his commitment to the Tooreen Hurling Club and to the development of the club grounds in particular. A Chairman of the club his lasting legacy will be the ability he has to gel people in the community together for the benefit of all.

Michael Noel Byrne (Offaly)
A player with the Tullamore G.A.A. club with whom he won Minor, Junior and Senior club Championships in the 40′s and 50′s, he spent many years as an intercounty referee and was involved in various capacities with both the club and Offaly County Board. Well known as the “Voice of O’Connor Park”, Tullamore where he acted as M.C. on match days.

Related:

2008 GAA President’s Awards Gallery

This entry was posted on Tuesday, March 18th, 2008 at 2:52 pm and is filed under Homepage News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

- Saturday 15^th March 2008 -

Allianz National Football League Division 1
Tír Eoghain 0-16 v 0-14 Laois
Omagh @ 7.00pm
Referee: John Bannon (An Longfort)

Despite losing Owen Mulligan early in the second half to a hamstring injury, Tyrone took their first win of the 2008 NFL after a tenacious affair at Healy Park, Omagh on Saturday night.

In a free-flowing encounter Liam Kearns may have lost the talented Ross Munnelly through injury after 12 minutes, and made a less than convincing start to this game but they pushed the hosts to the limit.

The floodlights beamed down strongly on Healy Park, and there was also some sparkling football on offer in a contest that failed to boil over and saw some brilliant points from all angles taken by both sides.

Laois began this game at blistering pace but were wasteful in front of the posts kicking three wides inside five minutes, with Tyrone far more clinical in attack as Owen Mulligan, Colm McCullagh and UUJ Sigerson Cup panellist Ray Mulgrew sent over points, with the hosts taking an early advantage.

Mickey Harte’s charges were certainly rampant in the opening stages and had five points on the board inside 14 minutes with half-back Davy Harte completing the hosts purple patch with a spectacular score after a good passing movement involving Colm McCullagh and Mulligan.

Laois were yet to score but the visitors now upped their game and a fisted Colm Parkinson score following good work by Billy Sheehan finally got them off the mark in the 20th minute, however they still had plenty of work to do.

Laois were forced to dig deep and the free-taking abilities of MJ Tierney ensured they were two points adrift with 11 minutes remaining in the opening half.

Tyrone remained solid with some excellent defending by Ryan McMenamin but a Brian McCormack point cut the gap to the minimum by the 26th minute.

However Tyrone were strongest before the interval with Colin Holmes, Sean Cavanagh and Mulligan on target as against a lone Tierney point to give the Red Hands a 0-8 to 0-5 interval advantage.

Tyrone were left mesmerised after the interval when Laois made a blistering start to the second half with substitute Colm Kelly, and MJ Tierney (2) both on target to level the contest for the first time in the 39th minute.

Despite the departure of Mulligan, Tyrone rallied strongly and points from Tommy McGuigan and Harte saw them edge back in front.

Laois kept up the pace well with Billy Sheehan and Brian McCormack taking well placed scores, however Tyrone continued to edge the lead.

But they weren’t quite able to shake off a resilient Laois side who cut the gap to a point with nine minutes remaining following a second McCormack score.

An Enda McGinley point put Tyrone back into a two point advantage with seven minutes remaining, a score which signalled the return to action of Brian McGuigan who got a standing ovation on his introduction.

Laois battled back with defender Peter O’Leary popping up for a point, before the only real goal chance of the contest fell to Sean Cavanagh who blasted wide from close range.

A seventh point for Tierney levelled the tie for only the second time, and although Tyrone broke in front once more, with five minutes of injury time there was still plenty of room for Laois to steal a win.

However this failed to materialise as a 75th minute Davy Harte point ensured a two-point home win.

Tyrone: J Devine; PJ Quinn, J McMahon, D Carlin; D Harte (0-3), C Gormley, R McMenamin; C Holmes (0-1), E McGinley (0-2); R Mellon, R Mulgrew (0-1), S Cavanagh (0-1); T McGuigan (0-2, 2f), C McCullagh (0-2), O Mulligan (0-3, 2f).

Subs: P Jordan for McMahon (HT), M Swift for Carlin (’42), N Gormley (0-1) for Mulligan (’42), B McGuigan for Mellon (’63), P Donnelly for Holmes (’68)

Laois: M Nolan; C Ryan, D Rooney, C Healy; P O’Leary (0-1), J O’Loughlin, P McMahon; P Clancy, K Meaney; R Munnelly, B McCormack (0-3), B Sheehan (0-1); MJ Tierney (0-7, 6f), B Quigley, C Parkinson (0-1).

Subs: C Kelly (0-1) for Munnelly (’12), P Lawlor for Meaney (’59)

—

Allianz National Football League Division 1
Dún na nGall 1-12 v 1-11 Gaillimh
Ballybofey @ 7.00pm
Referee: Aiden McAlynn (Doire)

Donegal just about survived to record their third win of the league, holding on after a late comeback by Galway pushed them about as much as they could handle.

Leading by five points at the beginning of the second half, Donegal’s situation improved even more when Galway corner back Damien Burke was sent off.

Galway made the better start in a strange game, and led 0-4 to 0-0 early on.

Donegal began to settle however, and points from Colm McFadden and Brian Roper helped them to a 0-9 to 0-6 lead at half-time.

Roper then landed a goal to put them 1-11 to 0-9 ahead, for which Michael Meehan responded with a goal for Galway. It wasn’t enough to overhaul the league champions however.

Donegal now sit level with Derry and Galway at the top of Division One, each with three wins and one defeat.

—

Allianz National Football League Division 1
Doire 1-16 v 0-08 Cill Dara
Celtic Park @ 7.00pm
Referee: Eugene Murtagh (An Longfort)

Derry moved to the top of the Allianz NFL Division One, with a big win over Kildare at Celtic Park.

A goal from Mark Lynch 90 seconds in set the tone for the rest of the game, as Derry cruised to as easy a win as they can expect in the league this season.

Five points from Paddy Bradley drove them to a 1-10 to 0-4 lead at half-time, and a stunned Kildare side never recovered.

Despite scoring six points without reply, divided equally between the end of the first half and the beginning of the second, they failed to eat into the gap sufficiently to ever worry Derry.

Bradley added another four points, with Enda Muldoon, Conleth Gilligan and Barry McGoldrick also impressing up front.

The Ulster side now lead at the top on points difference.

—

Allianz National Football League Division 2
An Mhí 0-15 v 0-13 An Cabhán
Páirc Tailteann @ 7.00pm
Referee: Jimmy McKee (Ard Mhacha)

Cavan lost a seven point lead as Cian Ward inspired Meath to a massive comeback in Pairc Tailteann, to claim their second win of the league campaign.

Ward landed seven points in the second half to add to his two in the first, as Meath overhauled the Ulster side, who now sit rooted to the bottom of Division Two with four straight defeats.

Seanie Johnston made most of the headway for Cavan in the first half, with five points helping them to a 0-11 to 0-4 lead at half-time.

Playing with a strong wind in the second half, Meath began to assert themselves in all areas of the pitch, with Ward doing the damage up front.

—

Allianz National Football League Division 3
An Dún 0-19 v 0-16 Longfort
Páirc Esler @ 7.00pm
Referee: Pat McEnaney (Muineachán)

Down managed to hold off a late rally by Longford to win 0-19 to 0-16 in a free-scoring Newry encounter.

Leading 0-10 to 0-6 at half-time, Down found themselves level inside the last ten minutes, 0-15 points apiece.

The effort proved too much for Longford however, as Paul McComiskey, John Clarke and Benny Coulter pulled Down ahead at the last.

—

Allianz National Football League Division 4
Aontroim 0-13 v 0-07 Ceatharlach
Casement Park @ 7.00pm
Referee: Jimmy White (Dún na nGall)

Antrim moved to the top of Division Four with an easy 0-13 to 0-7 win over Carlow at Casement Park.

Michael McCann hit five points from play for the home side, while CJ McGourty, Paddy Cunningham and Michael McCann also chipped in.

JJ Smith was Carlow’s chief threat, with four points from frees.

—

- Sunday 16^th March 2008 -

Allianz National Hurling League Division 1A
Aontroim 1-07 v 1-24 Corcaigh
Casement Park @ 2.30pm
Referee: Anthony Stapleton (Laois)

An impressive second-half display from Gerald McCarthy’s Rebels saw them see off the challenge of Antrim in the sides Allianz NHL Division One tie at Casement Park on a scoreline of 1-07 to 1-24.

The visitors only led by a solitary point at the break on a scoreline of 0-9 to 1-5, with Antrim’s Liam Watson netting for the hosts.

Cork introduced Ben O’Connor in the second half and the Newtownshandrum clubman added a much needed impetus to the Rebel’s attack as they forged ahead to put a impressive gloss of the final scoreline.

Liam Watson, who was particularly impressive in the opening half was sent off near the death after Cork newcomer, Brian Corry had smashed home a 66th minute goal.

—

Allianz National Hurling League Division 2B
Ceatharlach 3-15 v 1-10 Ard Mhacha
Dr. Cullen Pk @ 2.30pm
Referee: Fergus Smith (An Mhí)

Carlow claimed a hard-fought victory over Armagh in Dr Cullen Park, to put themselves top of NHL Division 2B.

—

Allianz National Hurling League Division 2B
Doire 2-19 v 3-14 An Dún
Banagher @ 2.30pm
Referee: John Devlin (Tír Eoghain)

A late goal from Ruairi Convery sealed an exciting 2 point win for Derry over Down in Banagher.

—

Allianz National Hurling League Division 3
An Lú 3-11 v 3-09 Tír Eoghain
Dundalk @ 2.30pm
Referee: David O’Donovan (BÁC)

Tyrone suffered a heart-breaking defeat in Dundalk, as they conceeeded a late goal and point to go down by 2 points to the Wee County.

—

Allianz National Hurling League Division 3
Dún na nGall 0-16 v 0-13 Longfort
Letterkenny @ 2.30pm
Referee: Tiernach Mahon (Fear Mahon)

Donegal maintained their 100% record in Division 3 with a deserved 3 point win over Longford.

Kevin Campbell top scored for the home side with 7 points.

—

Allianz National Hurling League Division 4
An Dún Theas 6-18 v 0-08 Fear Manach
Ballela @ 2.30pm
Referee: Owen Elliot (Aontroim)

South Down sharp-shooter Ciaran Sloane helped himself to 2-10 as his side romped to victory over Fermanagh.

—

Allianz National Hurling League Division 4
Muineachán 3-12 v 0-06 Liatroim
Cloghan @ 2.30pm
Referee: Eamonn Hassen (Doire)

Michael Greaney scored two goals as Monaghan strolled to victory over Liatroim. The win puts the Farney men right back into contention for promotion out of Division 4.

—

Allianz National Football League Division 2
Ard Mhacha 4-20 v 0-08 Ros Comáin
Crossmaglen @ 2.30pm
Referee: Patrick Fox (An Iar-Mhí)

Stephen McDonnell stole the show with a hat-trick of goals as Armagh destroyed a very poor Roscommon side at Crossmaglen.

McDonnell’s 1-5 tally helped the home go in at the break with a 1-9 to 0-5 advantage.

Senan Kilbride had opened the scoring for Roscommon but they struggled to get to grips with a fluid Armagh side that included Tony, Stephen and Aaron Kernan.

Ger Heneghan bolstered the visitors’ total with some neat frees but a brace of second-half goals from McDonnell and one from substitute Brian Mallon saw Armagh cruise home in a disappointing encounter.

—

Allianz National Football League Division 3
Fear Manach 0-11 v 0-10 An Lú
Lisnaskea @ 2.30pm
Referee: Tomas Quigley (BÁC)

Fermanagh maintained their 100% record in Division 3 with a 1 point victory over Louth in Lisnaskea.

This entry was posted on Tuesday, March 18th, 2008 at 10:01 am and is filed under Homepage News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

Arising from the Ulster Council Management meeting on Thursday 13^th March, Ulster are now in line to have the first two full size third generation synthetic Gaelic pitches provided during the current year.

The first phase of development is part of the Strategic Investment Programme, announced by Uachtarán C.L.G. Nickey Brennan in 2007, and will be taken forward by the Ulster Council in conjunction with the National Infrastructure & Safety Committee and the National Finance Committee of the GAA.

This project will be part of the greater investment in strategic facility provision on a regional basis in Ulster which is being addressed by the GAA over the next five years.

Tom Daly, President of the Ulster Council, welcomed the permission to proceed with the first two pitches and said that this would represent significant investment in the facilities and the future of Gaelic Games in Ulster by the Association.

(Pictured is the 3G Indoor Pitch at the University of Ulster, Jordanstown)

This entry was posted on Friday, March 14th, 2008 at 3:50 pm and is filed under Homepage News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

- Saturday 15^th March 2008 -

Allianz National Football League Division 1
Tír Eoghain v Laois
Omagh @ 7.00pm
Referee: John Bannon (An Longfort)

Tyrone manager Mickey Harte has made a couple of changes to his side as they look to grab a vital win over Laois in Saturday’s National Football League Division One game in Omagh.

Having been beaten last time out by Galway, Harte has decided to reshuffle his back line with Martin Swift missing out altogether. Justin McMahon comes in in Swift’s place and will start at full back as Conor Gormley moves to his preferred position just in front of McMahon.

The defensive chopping and changing also sees Dermot Carlin switch to left corner back.

Harte has also switched goalkeepers with John Devine replacing Johnny Curran. The midfield and attack remains the same.

Tyrone: J Devine; PJ Quinn, J McMahon, D Carlin; D Harte, C Gormley, R McMenamin; K Hughes, E McGinley; R Mellon, R Mulgrew, S Cavanagh; T McGuigan, C McCullagh, O Mulligan.

—

Allianz National Football League Division 1
Dún na nGall v Gaillimh
Ballybofey @ 7.00pm
Referee: Aiden McAlynn (Doire)

Donegal boss Brian McIver has recalled Rory Kavanagh and Michael Hegarty to the side for their Allianz NFL Divison 1 clash with table toppers Galway at Ballybofey on Saturday.

Kavanagh, back from suspension, comes into the side in midfield alongside Neil Gallagher. Martin McElhinney is the man to make way as Kevin Rafferty moves to the half forward line.

The only other change form the side that was edged out at the death by Kildare two weeks ago sees Hegarty replace Christy Toye.

Donegal: P Durcan; K Lacey, N McGee, N McCready; F McGlynn, E McGee, K Cassidy; N Gallagher, R Kavanagh, K Rafferty, M Hegarty, B Roper; C McFadden, R Bradley, D Walsh.

Galway: A Faherty; K Fitzgerald, F Hanley, D Burke; G Sice, N Coyne, D Mullahy; P Geraghty, N Coleman; E Hoare, P Joyce, D Meehan; M Clancy, M Meehan, F Breathnach.

—

Allianz National Football League Division 1
Doire v Cill Dara
Celtic Park @ 7.00pm
Referee: Eugene Murtagh (An Longfort)

—

Allianz National Football League Division 2
Baile Átha Cliath v Muineachán
Parnell Park @ 7.00pm
Referee: Syl Doyle (Loch Garman)

Monaghan manager Seamus McEnaney has opted for an unchanged side for Saturday evening’s National Football League Division Two meeting with Dublin.

With The Farney men heading into a top-of-the-table clash with Paul Caffrey’s side, boss McEnaney has kept faith with the XV who edged Armagh last time out.

Dermot McArdle continues at left corner back in the continued absence of Colm Flanagan, while Conor McManus, who is set to captain the county’s U21 side when they face Donegal in Monday’s championship opener, starts at number 10.

The full forward trio of Rory Woods, Raymond Ronaghan and Tommy Freeman all start again, despite each being replaced during the win over The Orchard County.

Monaghan: P McBennett; D Mone, JP Mone, D McArdle; D Freeman, G McQuaid, P McGuigan; D Clerkin, E Lennon; C McManus, V Corey, P Finlay; R Woods, R Ronaghan, T Freeman.

Dublin: S Cluxton; D Henry, R McConnell, D Murray; P Casey, B Cahill, C Moran; E Fennell, S Ryan; B Cullen, A Brogan, M Vaughan; J Sherlock, C Keaney, B Brogan.

—

Allianz National Football League Division 2
An Mhí v An Cabhán
Páirc Tailteann @ 7.00pm
Referee: Jimmy McKee (Ard Mhacha)

Meath: B Murphy, N McKeigue, D Fay, C Mac Gill, E Harrington, K Reilly, C King, N Crawford, M Ward, P Byrne, A Moyles, A Nestor, S Bray, G Geraghty, C Ward

—

Allianz National Football League Division 3
An Dún v Longfort
Páirc Esler @ 7.00pm
Referee: Pat McEnaney (Muineachán)

Down: Brendan McVeigh, Ciarán McGovern, Gary McArdle, Martin Cole, Ronan Murtagh, Liam Doyle, Declan Rooney, Dan Gordon (Captain), Ambrose Rodgers, John Fegan, Kevin McKernan, Danny Hughes, John Clarke, Cathal Magee, Ronan Sexton

—

Allianz National Football League Division 4
Aontroim v Ceatharlach
Casement Park @ 7.00pm
Referee: Jimmy White (Dún na nGall)

—

- Sunday 16^th March 2008 -

Allianz National Hurling League Division 1A
Aontroim v Corcaigh
Casement Park @ 2.30pm
Referee: Anthony Stapleton (Laois)

Cork: M Coleman; S O’Neil, D Sullivan, S Murphy; E Cadogan, J Gardiner, C McGann; T Kenny, K Hartnett; K Murphy, B Vorry, T McCarthy; L Desmond, K Canty, P Cronin.

—

Allianz National Hurling League Division 2B
Ceatharlach v Ard Mhacha
Dr. Cullen Pk @ 2.30pm
Referee: Fergus Smith (An Mhí)

—

Allianz National Hurling League Division 2B
Doire v An Dún
Banagher @ 2.30pm
Referee: John Devlin (Tír Eoghain)

—

Allianz National Hurling League Division 3
An Lú v Tír Eoghain
Dundalk @ 2.30pm
Referee: David O’Donovan (BÁC)

—

Allianz National Hurling League Division 3
Dún na nGall v Longfort
Letterkenny @ 2.30pm
Referee: Tiernach Mahon (Fear Mahon)

Donegal: G Grindle; M McGrath, J Boyle, J McGee; J Donnelly A Wallace, P Hannigan; D Cullen, E McDermott; S Boyle, M McCann, K Campbell; S McVeigh, G Dwyer, N Campbell.

—

Allianz National Hurling League Division 4
An Dún Theas v Fear Manach
Ballela @ 2.30pm
Referee: Owen Elliot (Aontroim)

—

Allianz National Hurling League Division 4
Muineachán v Liatroim
Clones @ 2.30pm
Referee: Eamonn Hassen (Doire)

—

Allianz National Football League Division 2
Ard Mhacha v Ros Comáin
Crossmaglen @ 2.30pm
Referee: Patrick Fox (An Iar-Mhí)

Roscommon boss John Maughan has made just one change to his side for Sunday’s crucial National Football League Division Two encounter with Armagh at Crossmaglen.

With neither side firing on all cylinders, Sunday’s game will play a crucial role in the final make-up of the league table and after losing to Cork last time out, Maughan has altered his side, albeit not in a revolutionary manner.

The only change sees David Keenan called in to start at left half back. Keenan’s inclusion sees Seanie McDermott moving to left corner back with Adrian Murtagh the man to drop out of the XV that started the Kiltoom defeat to Conor Counihan’s Rebels.

Roscommon: G Coffey; P O’Connor, A McDermott, S McDermott; D O’Gara, E Kenny, D Keenan; K Mannion, M O’Carroll; G Cox, F Dolan, C Gregg; S Heneghan, J Dunning, S Kilbride.

—

Allianz National Football League Division 3
Fear Manach v An Lú
Lisnaskea @ 2.30pm
Referee: Tomas Quigley (BÁC)

Fermanagh: C Breen, S Goan, S Lyons, N Bogue, D Kelly, R McCluskey, R Johnston, M Murphy, An other, C McElroy, M Keenan, M Little, P Cadden, An other, R Keenan

This entry was posted on Thursday, March 13th, 2008 at 2:11 pm and is filed under News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

Fermanagh staged a remarkable comeback to eventually run out four-point winners over Leitrim in a high-scoring Allianz National football League Division Three clash at Carrick-on-Shannon on Sunday.

At one point, Fermanagh were eight points in arrears, but goals from Mark Murphy and Matthew Keenan turned the game on its head.

Allianz NFL Division Three: Leitrim 2-9 Fermanagh 3-10

Leitrim finished with 13 men after Michael Duignan and Shane Foley were sent off, while Fermanagh also finished a man down when Martin McGrath was shown a red card.

In the end, it was Pat Cadden’s goal that sealed the victory for Fermanagh but Leitrim’s indiscipline played a major part in their change of fortunes.

Leitrim led by 2-6 to 0-4 just after the break thanks to goals from Declan Maxwell and Emlyn Mulligan after Fermanagh struggled to cope with the strong breeze in the opening half.

The Erne County did not open their account until 17 minutes in when Matthew Keenan pointed. Leitrim, however, already had three points on the board at that point.

Maxwell scored the opening goal of the game in first-half injury time, just as Fermanagh had established a foothold in the game.

And when Mulligan netted just after the break, the result looked like a formality.

Then Foley saw red and Matthew Keenan and Mark Little reduced the deficit, with Keenan grabbing a second goal for the visitors to set up a grandstand finish.

Matthew Keenan and Mulligan exchanged further scores before Cadden sealed a win for the Erne County with a goal at the death.

This entry was posted on Monday, March 10th, 2008 at 10:59 am and is filed under Homepage News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

Déise get League defence back on track

Waterford ran out easy winners against Antrim at Dungarvan this afternoon in Division 1A of the National Hurling League.

Antrim lost the toss and it proved very costly as the Déise got off to a fantastic start.

The Munster side scored five unanswered points through Declan Prendergast, Dan Shanahan, Ken McGrath (2) and Eoin Kelly, before Dan Shanahan netted the first goal of the game after ten minutes.

Allianz NHL Division 1A: Waterford 3-29 Antrim 3-10

A young Antrim team looked disheartened early on and things were only to get worse for the Saffrons as the hosts continued to dominate.

Ken McGrath back in action for Waterford scored a further two points, and captain Michael Walsh and Eoin Kelly kept the scoreboard ticking over.

Brendan Quinn opened the Saffrons’ account in the 14th minute and they grew in confidence thereafter.

Two points from Liam Watson gave them further encouragement, before a Simon MacRory goal gave Antrim real hope of producing another shock, following on from their victory over Wexford in the last round.

But that hope was quickly dashed as a relentless Waterford showed little mercy to their Ulster opponents. Walsh, Kelly (2), both Seamus and Declan Prendergast, and substitute Eoin McGrath were all on target.

Then Shanahan reminded the crowd just why he was named hurler of the year in 2007 by scoring his second goal of the game, to put Waterford 2-18 to 1-5 ahead.

Two further points meant Waterford led 2-20 to Antrim’s 1-5 at the break.

The league champions took the foot of the gas somewhat in the second half, but not before Eoin Kelly scored their third goal from a 21 metre free to take his personal tally to 1-6. With ten minutes left in the game, Waterford led by 3-26 to 2-9.

Antrim showed great spirit in the closing stages and two further goals from Karl Stewart and Paddy Richmond gave the scoreboard a sense of respectability. However the Déise coasted home with a final scoreline of Waterford 3-29 Antrim 3-10.

There was plenty of hurling on display in Divisions Two, Three and Four of the National Hurling League on Sunday.

In Division 2B, Derry edged out Armagh at Keady by a scoreline of 3-11 to 2-13. In Navan Down had too much for hosts Meath, as the Mourne County won by 2-17 to 0-21.

In Division Three, Tyrone and Longford had to sit it out as their match in Omagh was postponed.

In Division Four, Fermanagh beat Cavan 2-12 to 1-8 at Tempo. South Down recorded a facile victory over Leitrim at Newry, winning by a scoreline of 4-15 to 1-9.

This entry was posted on Sunday, March 9th, 2008 at 6:52 pm and is filed under Homepage News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

UUJ kept their hopes of a first Sigerson Cup title in seven years alive after defeating DIT in Carlow on Saturday evening.

Thomas McCann and Paddy Cunningham starred for the northern side as they swept to a convincing eight-point win.

Sigerson Cup Semi-Final: UUJ 2-12 DIT 0-10

It was close in the opening ten minutes of the game and the sides were level on two occasions, with Mark Vaughan kicking the first of three frees in the opening period inside the first minute.

Derry star Mark Lynch and Darren Hughes of Monaghan managed quickfire responses to give UUJ the upper hand soon after.

DIT failed to take advantage of the strong breeze in the first half and they looked uncomfortable in defence at times.

McCann was the real hero for the Ulster college as he grabbed both goals to give his side a four-point lead at the break.

Vaughan, Aidan Kilcoyne and defenders Eoghan Naughton and Liam Fleming were all on the mark for DIT, with the bleached blond Dublin attacker pointing brilliantly from a sideline kick on 14 minutes.

Both sides struggled to find their rhythm in the second half and UUJ were dealt a blow when Darren Hughes was sent off for a second yellow card on for a challenge on Shane Ryan.

Vaughan and substitute Paul Flynn scored points for DIT late on, but UUJ held out well for a deserved eight-point victory.

UUJ Scorers: T McCann (1 45) 2-1; P Cunningham (1f) 0-4; A Moran 0-3; M Lynch (1f) 0-2; D Hughes, C Cavanagh 0-1

DIT Scorers: M Vaughan (1sl, 3f) 0-5; L Fleming, C Ward, P Flynn, A Kilcoyne, E Naughton 0-1

DIT: E Somerville; M Burke, E Naughton, D Hughes; M Hannon, D Reilly, L Fleming; J Coughlan, R Glavin; M Vaughan, C Ward, P Flynn; A Kilcoyne, B Ennis, J Donegan. Subs: S Ryan for Donegan (23); D Munnelly for Ryan (44); K McMenamin for Ward (44); S McCormack for Ennis (44); E Gaffney for McMenamin (50).

UUJ: M McAlister; C Harrison, D McCaul, D Morgan; P McGuigan, K Lacey, P Donnelly; D Hughes, R Mulgrew; C Cavanagh, T McCann, B McKenna; M Lynch, P Cunningham, A Moran. Subs: S Mulligan for McKenna (59)

Referee: Maurice Deegan (Laois)

This entry was posted on Saturday, March 8th, 2008 at 8:56 pm and is filed under Homepage News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

Venue: Eire Og, Lurgan

Info: All participants must be 18 or over, have at least one year’s coaching experience and have completed the Ladies Fundamentals (Foundation) in order to undertake this course.  This is the first part of a 2 day course, of which the second part will take place on Saturday 26^th April.  Should you wish to book a place on this course, please contact Sheena Tally 07795160979.  Please note there is a cost of £50 / €70 for this course.

Contact: Sheena Tally 07795160979

This entry was posted on Monday, March 3rd, 2008 at 2:08 pm and is filed under Events. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

The Belfast Cuchullains American Tour 2008

The Belfast Cuchullains are a post-primary school hurling team of 20 all of whom are under the age of 16, the players from the following schools:

• Corpus Christi College
• St. Patrick’s College Beranagheeha
• Belfast Boys Model
• Ashfield Boys School.

The team has been in existence for just over two years and have participated in the range of events, which have included Shinty games in Scotland. The children in the team represent both the Catholic and Protestant traditions.

Comhairle Uladh has formed a strong link with the team and the schools leading the project, following a successful trip to the All-Ireland Hurling Final by the teachers and Governors of the schools involved in the Cuchullains project, it was decided that Cumann Lúthchleas Gael and the Ulster Council would facilitate a tour of the United States by the team. A group of 32, which comprises of 5 pupils and two teachers from each school and four representatives from the GAA will travel in July this year.

The team will travel to New York, Boston, Philadelphia, and Washington from 18^th July to 28^th July and will participate in the intercontinental Youth Games held in Philadelphia.

The tour is supported by the Office of the President of Ireland and the team will attend a reception with the President in July.

For more information contact
Ryan Feeney
Community Development Manager
rfeeney@ulster.gaa.ie

Related:

Belfast Cuchullains

This entry was posted on Monday, March 3rd, 2008 at 1:13 pm and is filed under Homepage News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.