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by thesaffrongael

Holders pushed all the way by luckless St Louis

Danske Bank Mageean Cup semi-final

St Killian’s Garron Tower 2-17 St Louis Ballymena 3-10

Mageean Cup holders St Killian’s were pushed the limit to hold off a great fightback by St Louis, Ballymena in Tuesday’s semi-final at Pairc Mhuir in Cushendall.

Leading by four at half time the Tower side had the lead out to seven at a stage in the second half, but St Louis kept battling and twice they had it back to within a goal. However the champions held on, even though they had to ride their luck a time or two, and set up a repeat of last year’s final against Cross & Passion at the Dub in just over a week’s time.  

Both teams started slowly and the scores were hard to come by, but Caleb Smith gave St Louis a boost when he took advantage of a defensive slip by the holders to scramble the ball over the line from close range. St Killian’s got themselves back into the game with pointed frees by Thomas McLaughlin and one from a 65 by centre back Charlie McAuley. Two points by the excellent Jack Martin brought St Louis back to level but the Tower finished the half strongly and a Thomas McLaughlin goal sent them in at the break with a 1-07 to 1-03 lead.

St Louis struck fast after the break and a Jack Martin point had the gap back to three, but the Tower began to find a bit of form and two quick scores from centre forward Calum McIlwaine, one of them a great individual goal, swung the game in his team’s favour.

Two pointed frees from Cushendall’s Fionntan Bradley and a goal from Dunloy’s Luke McFerran brought St Louis back into a game, but the Tower stayed a goal ahead. When they stretched the gap out to seven with two points from McLaughlin frees, and one each from play by Canice McIntosh and Callagh Mooney they appeared to have weathered the storm, but St Louis kept up the pressure and a goal direct from a free from Fiontann Bradley brought them right back into the fight.

Centre back Charlie McAuley eased the pressure on the Tower with a great long range free, and though they should have sealed the win had they scored two easy tap-over points that were there for the taking they went for the glory option on each occasion and were relieved to hear the final whistle at St Louis fought hard for the goal they needed to bring the game to extra time.

St Killian’s: B Duncan, C McNaughton, C Ward, C McCann, A McCambridge, C McAuley (0-3 frees), J Scullion, A Campbell, C Mooney – joint captain- (0-3), C McIntosh (0-1), C McIlwaine-joint captain- (1-2), O McCambridge (0-2), N McLaughlin, T McLaughlin (1-6, 0-5 frees), C Leech.

Sub: M Furey for N McLaughlin (42)

St Louis: C McFerran, A Doherty, S óg Blaney capt, R McClements, D Kinsella, D McKay, S McDermott, J Martin (0-4), T Bonnes, L McFerran (1-0), D McLarnon, F Bradley (1-5, 1-4 frees), J McAlonan, C Smith (1-1), J McGarry.

Subs: C Cunning for R McClements (41), C McCollum for D McLarnon (45), E Curry for J McAlonan (45), G McFadden for D Kinsella (55)

Referee: Colm McDonnell

St Killian’s Calum McIlwaine in action during his team’s hard fought Mageean Cup semi-final win over St Louis Ballymena Tuesday’s semi-final at Pairc Mhuir Cushendall. Pic by Dylan McIlwaine

TO SEE MORE OF DYLAN’S PICS FROM THIS GAME CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW

https://myalbum.com/album/JdazL5d9y8oFrk

by thesaffrongael

From Hannahstown to Barcelona 

An opportunity of a lifetime for Lámhs G4MO’S

Lámh Dhearg G4MO’s attended and participated in a blitz in Barcelona on 2nd Nov 2024. The blitz was successfully hosted by the Barcelona Gaels and it certainly met up to the ladies’ expectations.

As excitement mounted and the plans of the trip finally fell into place. 10 Lámh Dhearg G4MO’s proudly kitted in their new rigs kindly sponsored by Lockdown Security participated in a series of games on Saturday afternoon in the Catalonian capital. The Lámhs were so fortunate that the sun shone during the blitz which added to the fun filled atmosphere while sadly other parts of the country experienced exceptional inclement weather.

Lamh Dhearg G4MO’S who took part in the blitz in Barcelona

Due to the high numbers in attendance and the limited number of players allowed to participate in the games from each team. The Lámhs kindly offered 3 other players the chance to play alongside them and an opportunity for a run out. Two players from Middleton Magpies and a player from Celbridge availed of this act of friendship and proved an invaluable addition to the Hannahstown ladies on the day.

The blitz ran very smoothly, and the hosts were very hospitable and welcoming. The blitz commenced with a light-hearted and fun warm up and cool down. Each player was presented with a medal to remember their time in Barcelona and the Lámhs were awarded with a certificate for “Best Team Warm Up” which showed the girls were as good dancers as footballers.

Throughout the blitz the Hannahstown ladies played very well and were proud ambassadors for their club and county. They displayed great teamwork, skill and talent showcasing the dedication and hard work that they put into their training to prepare for the blitz which came to fruition on the day. The forward line was very potent and accurate, midfield was very industrious, while the defence and goalkeeper were solid as they defended resolutely.

Even though the blitz had a competitive spirit the reality was this was also a social event which was very clear to see on the pitch with the sound of laughs and cheering enveloping the pitch. Friendships were made, fun was had and most importantly the Lámhs experienced playing Gaelic football in the most amazing environment in Europe. The blitz really epitomised the ethos of Gaelic for Mothers.

A well organised night of entertainment and celebrations organised by the Barcelona Gaels followed the blitz. Once again, all the teams fully embraced this time to socially mix with other teams organising future friendlies at home and solidifying those new friendships made on the pitch.

Although this trip was mainly about football the Lámhs availed of the opportunity to explore the enchanting city of Barcelona. They travelled on the Hop on Hop off bus to visit the many tourist and scenic attractions that it had to offer. They were captivated with the Sagrada Familia and every other building that was designed by Gaudi. They were also impressed with the illuminations of the city while driving through the streets at night as it was setting up for Christmas.

Joanne 0’Reilly commented “I would like to thank the Barcelona Gaels for accepting our application from the Lamh Dhearg G4MO’s team and inviting us to play. This has been the making of our team with an increase in players joining throughout the year and a much needed focus. Playing in this competition was a once in a lifetime experience for a lot of the players and one we will never forget. However, this has provided us with the drive to continue to play and promote positive physical, emotional, and mental health within our club and we may be already planning a little something exciting in the future. So, watch this space.”

Overall, the most memorable experience from the trip must be the friendships built between the team. Although already strong there is nothing like creating memories with others and these are memories that we will remember and cherish forever. We laughed from the minute we sat on the bus at the club right up to the minute we exited the bus back at Belfast. This group of girls did themselves proud for their skill, attitude, and behaviour on and off the pitch and were great ambassadors for the club itself.”

Thanks 

The Lámhs G4MAO’S would like to sincerely thank the club Committee for supporting the team on this trip especially Chairperson Brian Smyth, Paul Buchanan and Jim Ferguson for all their extensive work in the background and making the Barcelona Blitz happen. They would also like to acknowledge everyone who supported their fundraising activities.

They also send their extended thanks to their Friends the Barcelona Gaels for providing the opportunity to play Gaelic games in Europe, being so hospitable and making it such a memorable experience

Finally, we want to thank our sponsor Lockdown Security for providing us with a brand new kit for the full team. We will continue to wear it with pride for the foreseeable future.  

TO VIEW MORE PHOTOGRAPHS FROM THE VISIT TO BARCELONA CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW

https://myalbum.com/album/uc84DkgLxGfaBt

by thesaffrongael

CPC progress to Mageean decider

Danske Bank Mageean Cup semi-final

Cross & Passion Ballycastle 2-17 St Patrick’s Maghera 0-7

Monday 25 November

Brendan McTaggart reports from Portglenone

Goals in either half from Caedan Crawford and Conor Donnelly ensured it was a comfortable evening for Cross & Passion as they progressed to a second successive Mageean Cup Final.

It was a strong performance from the Ballycastle school who weathered a bright start from St Pat’s to build an eight point half time lead.  The Maghera men put in an improved performance in the second half but a fourth quarter push from CPC put to bed any thoughts of a comeback from St Pat’s.

On a bitterly cold evening under the floodlights in Portglenone, CPC had eight different scorers with full forward Roan McGarry top scoring with 0-7 beside his name at the end of the hour.  Padraig Martin and Oisin McCallin were always a threat while Liam Glackin, Ronan Fitzgerald and Darragh Donnelly also impressed.

St Pat’s were reliant on the impish abilities of Rian Collins.  The Lavey man finished with four points for his work over the hour while captain Cathal McKaigue and Padraig Haran also impressed.

Effectively, it was CPC’s abilities in the middle third that was the difference.  St Pat’s couldn’t get to grip with either puck out and with plenty of daylight between the sides at half time, CPC controlled the contest after the break.

It wasn’t a perfect performance from the Convent. After 42 minutes they had registered 1-10, but also pulled 12 shots wide of the target. However they were very much in control of their own destiny after McCallin cut in from the left corner for the other corner forward Caedan Crawford to take possession and hit the net in the 16th minute.  A brilliant finish from the Ballycastle man and gave Donnacha Collins no chance.

That score seemed to kill any momentum Maghera had built with the opening three scores, a fine point from Cormac McCloskey and two Rian Collins frees.

CPC had drawn level by the 10th minute with three points inside two minutes, including two from Paudie Martin, and Eunan Johnston chipped over a lead point before the goal.

By half time Ballycastle led by 1-9 to 0-4 and their pace and power up front was taking a toll on the Derry side.

Maghera fared a little better during the third quarter with points from Collins (free), McCloskey and captain Cathal McKaigue cancelling our similar efforts from Roan McGarry (two) and Darragh Donnelly.

McGarry then added two more before Conor Donnelly went around the outside and fired home the second goal in the 55th minute.

Stronger and sharper all over the pitch Cross and Passion will be a handful for whoever emerges from the second semi-final this (Tuesday) afternoon (1.30pm in Cushendall between holders St Killian’s Garron Tower and St Louis Ballymena.

TEAMS

CPC: Anthony Mullan; Cian Baudant, Eunan Johnston, Niall McClean; Reece Cunning, Liam Glackin, Ardan Kelly; Ronan Fitzgerald, Darragh Donnelly; Conan Johnston, Conor Donnelly, Padraig Martin; Oisin McCallin, Roan McGarry, Caedan Crawford.

Subs: Cahir McMullan for D Donnelly (52); Aiden Richmond for O McCallin (52); Logan McConville for D Kinney (52); Dan O’Mullan for P Martin (54)

Scorers: R McGarry 0-7 (5fs); C Donnelly 1-3; C Crawford 1-1; P Martin 0-2 (1f); D Donnelly 0-1; E Johnston 0-1; O McCallin 0-1; L McConville 0-1

St Pat’s: Donnacha Collins; Fiachra Turner, Padraig O’Kane, Darragh O’Neill; Jack McCloy, Cathal McKaigue, Odhran Doherty; Daithi McCloskey, Niall McNicholl; Rian Collins, Padraig Haran, Gabhan McIvor; Turlough McHugh, Cormac McCloskey, Dara O’Kane

Subs: Cathal Quinn for G McIvor (37); Cathal Mulholland for P Haran (57)

Scorers: R Collins 0-4 (4fs); C McCloskey 0-2; C McKaigue 0-1

Referee: Brendan Toland

TO SEE MORE PHOTOS FROM THE GAME CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW

https://myalbum.com/album/ecoLEZ5AiLjCo7

by thesaffrongael

Kickham’s Creggan 100th Anniversary Dinner

Barry Donaghy, Teresa Daly, Terry Robb (Creggan Chairman), Patsy Totten, Thomas Niblock (Compere), Seamus McMullan (Antrim Chairman) and Michelle Bradley.

Kickham’s GAC, Creggan celebrated therir 100th Anniversary with a Cenenary Gala Dinner in Tullyglass House on Saturday night.

The event was attended by over 500 patrons who included special guest, Seamus McMullan, Antrim County Chairman while Thomas Niblock, sports corrospondent from the BBC was compere for the evening and kept the guests entertained and informed on the clubs history.

Presentations were made from Creggan Primary School and Moneynick Primary school and a great evening was had by all as they reminissed about past success and battles fought on the Hurling, football and camogie fields.

Orla Mallon, Moneynick Primary School makes a presentation to Terry Robb, Creggan Chairman at the clubs Centenary Gala Dinner: L to R Stephen Colgan, Clare Maguire, Terry Robb, Orla Mallon, Colm McLarnon, Ciarán Mc Cartney and Barry Donaghy 
 

Staff of Creggan Primary School make a presentation at the Creggan GAC Dinner: L to R Barry Donaghy, Treása Uí Dhálaigh, Michelle Bradley, Terry Robb, Joan Martin, Karen Mc Elroy, Dervla Johnston, Kevin Small

Kickham’s GAC, Creggan celebrated therir 100th Anniversary with a Cenenary Gala Dinner in Tullyglass House on Saturday night.

The event was attended by over 500 patrons whop included special guest, Seamus McMullan, Antrim County Chairman while Thomas Niblock, sports corrospondent from the BBC was compere for the evening and kept the guests entertained and informed on the clubs history.

TO VIEW PADDY’S PICS FROM THE EVENING CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW

https://myalbum.com/album/NQAAYVhLn2b49v

by thesaffrongael

Mayobridge advance to quarter-final with hard fought victory over Kingscourt

FonaCAB Ulster Minor Football Tournament, Preliminary Round

Mayobridge 2-10-1-10 Kingscourt Stars

Kevin Herron reports from An Sportlann, Colaiste Feirste

MAYOBRIDGE advanced to the quarter-final of the FonaCAB Ulster Minor Football Tournament at St Pauls with a 2-10-1-10 victory over Kingscourt Stars of Cavan in their prelim clash at An Sportlann Colasite Feirste on Sunday afternoon.

Playing with the strong breeze in the opening half, Mayobridge capitalised in the early stages with Corey Clerkin swinging a high shot over the bar inside of 23-seconds before the opening goal arrived in the 3rd minute.

Daniel Carr surged forward with ease and after bearing down on goal he shot low past Cian Platt in the Kingscourt goal.

It took ten minutes for the Cavan outfit to register through Aaron Shekleton but at the other end Cian Platt needed to block Daire O’Keeffe’s goalbound attempt and Clerkin converted a free after play was brought back for a foul in the build-up.

Midway through the half Mayobridge cut through and threatened the Kingscourt goal again.  Clerkin was slipped in by Darragh Poland, the goal chance was closed, and Daniel Carr shot over on the turn.

Clerkin doubled his tally from play following a link-up with Patrick Woods and Woods then joined the scoring list, converting a free after being fouled.

Kingscourt were in need of a score to give themselves hope at the break and a stroke of fortune saw them find the net on the 24th minute.

Joe McCormack got his hand to a loose pass and ran onto the ball ahead of Michael Gallagher and stroked a low shot into the corner of the net to make it 1-05-1-01.

An angled Darragh Poland point in reply left five-points between the sides at the break with McCormack’s goal ensuring his side were still in touch with the breeze in the second period.

Mayobridge started the brighter after the break and extended their advantage through a Clerkin point.

After a series of wides in the opening half, Kingscourt full-forward Michael McKeon found his range, but Patrick Woods converted his second free of the afternoon a few minutes later.

Woods almost found his sides second goal after collecting a pass from Clerkin, though his shot from a tight angle was deflected away from danger

The Down Champions only had two minutes to wait before they did take a huge stride to victory on the 43rd minute with Daire O’Keeffe ramming home from close-range to open up a 2-08-1-02 lead.

Kingscourt weren’t going quietly however and five-points unanswered breathed new life into proceedings.

Captain, Cormac McAvinney led the fightback with their first score in almost a quarter of an hour and popped over again four minutes later to reduce arrears to four (2-08-1-07).

In-between times Michael McKeon converted two frees and steered over his second from play.

Despite trailing, momentum was with the Cavan outfit until substitute Darragh Sherlock was dismissed with seven minutes to play.

The corner-back was booked along with Mayobridge’s Ryan Coulter for an off the ball incident early in the second half and Sherlock was given his marching orders- picking up a black card for a deliberate pull-down.

Patrick Woods converted the resulting free and Corey Clerkin kicked his fifth and final point of the afternoon 60-seconds later to move Mayobridge 2-10-1-07 ahead.

Kingscourt would rally again in the closing stages and Michael McKeon kicked three further frees in a four-minute period to setup a grandstand finish.

A second goal eluded his side though as Mayobridge saw the game out to advance to a quarter-final meeting with Fr Rocks Cookstown on December 15th.

MAYOBRIDGE: M Gallagher, R Magone, B Kelly, J McGlade, O De Rose, D McMahon, C Colhoun, D O’Keeffe (1-0), C Keenan, D Carr (1-1), C Clerkin (0-5, 0-1f), P Woods (0-3f), R Coulter, D Poland (0-1), C McPolin. SUBS: J Keenan for R Magone (57),G Barry for J McGlade (57).

KINGSCOURT STARS: C Platt, L Gogarty, C McAvinney (0-2), A O’Neill, N McCormack, A Shekleton (0-1), L Madden, D Putnam, J McKeon, P O’Reilly, R Carey, M Lennon, C Gaynor, M McKeon (0-7, 0-5f), J McCormack (1-0). SUBS: D Sherlock for A O’Neill (32), C Patterson for P O’Reilly (36), M Putnam for M Lennon (50).

REFEREE: Brendan Toland (LÁMH DHEARG)

TO VIEW BERT TROWLEN’S PICS FROM THE GAME CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW

https://myalbum.com/album/rx9bbcYECaFYHA