Week ended – 15th Jan 2006 

 

Club AGM – 10/1

The adult section of the club held its Annual General Meeting last Tuesday night in the clubhouse, in front of about 50 members. Most positions from 2005 remain the same – the following changes and additions were made. Fr O’Leary PP, Anthony Ronayne and Charlie Hennessy were elected as Senior Vice Presidents. Pat O’Neill is the new vice chairman, taking over from Pat Tuohy. Brian ‘Todds’ Sweeney takes over from Finny O’Flaherty as registrar. It was decided that the under 21’s would be managed by the junior managers in both codes. Joseph Shanahan and Brian Sweeney are going to try their hand at the troublesome area of Minor hurling and football and its good to see 2 young players getting involved with the younger players. We wish them and all the new officers well and thank the previous ones for their time and effort, all voluntary of course. Without them we would have no club to report on.

 

Underage AGM – 18/1

The underage section of the club held its Annual General Meeting last Wednesday night in the clubhouse, in front of about 30 members. History was made when Mr Donal Brady of Shanbally was elected as the first underage club President. Donal has given much support over the years to the underage and has raised thousands of euro for us in the last few years, most recently in the bed push on New Years Day. All officers stay the same from the year ahead and we wish them the best. The following trainers, coaches and mentors were elected to guide the various teams. Under 8’s : Dick Andrews, Senan Andrews, Stephen Keane, Martin Barrett. Under 10’s : Ian Breen, Stephen O’Reilly, Oisín Boland, Liam Shanahan. Under 12’s : Jim Raleigh, Ian Breen, Oisín Boland, Pat Tuohy, Sammy O’Driscoll, Jim Ronayne, Pat Q. Under 14’s : Ciarán Barry, Tomás Barrett, Michael Sid Kidney, Oliver McCann, Seán Horgan. Under 16 : Patrick Andrews, Pat McCarthy, Colin O’Sullivan, Diarmuid Murphy, Stephen Keane

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  

 

Week ended – 19th Feb 2006

 

Junior Football League – 19/2

Bsllymartle 1-10, Shamrocks 1-10
Shamrocks and Ballymartle played a very entertaining draw in the bottom field in Riverstick on Sunday afternoon last. It was the first outing of the year for Shamrocks, Ballymartle’s second so naturally the home side were quickly out of the blocks and had opened up a 1-3 to 0-0 lead inside 15 minutes, playing down the hill and with the advantage of the diagonal wind. Shamrocks had plenty of possession in this time by some wayward shooting let them down, both form play and frees. Eventually Todds Sweeney, Joe Shanahan (who was dangerous all through, especially at full forward in the second half) and Chris O’ Neill got Shamrocks on the board and it was set up nicely at the break, 1-5 to 0-3 to Ballymartle. Shamrocks got the perfect start from the throw in as Chris O’Neill (who was all over the field all day) finished a great, sweeping move to the home sides net to reduce the gap further. With the momentum behind them now, Shamrocks pushed on and added a few points from Shanahan frees to edge ahead and they looked good. However, the home side’s fitness came into play for the last 15 minutes as they played the better football up the hill and might have snatched a win. They went a point up three times but each time in succession Shamrocks equalised at the other end, one a beauty from sub Terence O’Sullivan. Both teams would be happy with the draw while at the same time finding out a bit more about themselves before their first round clash in the championship later on. Team: B.Mulqueen, K.Hegarty, R.Lannon, C.Brady, M.Prout, P.Prout, K.Griffin, C.O’Neill, N.Hayes, C.Ronayne, J.Shanahan, B.Sweeney, S.O’Neill, S.Collins, O.Boland. Subs used – D.Roche, T.O’Sullivan, B.Hickey, D.O’Neill.

 

City Minor Football League – 19/2

Bsllygarvan 2-7, Shamrocks1-4
Shamrocks went down to Ballygarvan on Sunday afternoon at Ballygarvan. Following on from last weeks disappointing defeat to St Finbarrs, Shamrocks put in a much improved display but came up just short in the final analysis. Though having plenty of possession in the first half playing against the wind, Shamrocks let themselves down in front of goals and this allowed a more economical Garvans to go in at the break leading by 5 points to 1. Philip Brady scored an absolute rocket of a goal just after half time to ignite the Shamrocks challenge and they managed to stick with Ballygarvan until 6 minutes from the end when the home side got 2 quick fire goals to run out deserving winners. However, the young Shamrocks team can take plenty of encouragement from the display. Stephen Downey, Michael O’Neill and John Cronin were the other Shamrocks players on the scoresheet while the Shamrocks half back line of Cormac Horgan, Gary Ronayne and Jason Browne were the pick of the visiting team. Training continues this Friday at 5pm.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

 

Week ended – 26th Feb 2006

 

Junior Update – 26/2

Shamrocks played two challenge games over the weekend both against the Barrs. Football was first up on the Saturday and Shamrocks had a mixture of under 21’s, Junior A’s and Junior B’s. The Barrs won that game 1-9 to 1-5. The away leg was played on Sunday morning in Togher and it was our first hurling game of 2006. A big panel made the trip with everyone getting plenty of playing time. Training continues Tuesday and Thursday nights with a game next Sunday against Tracton, the day after the Dinner Dance!!

 

Under 14 Football League – 25/2

Shamrocks 5-5, Courcey Rovers 5-4
Another brilliant game of football here and luckily for Shamrocks they came out on the right side of this 39-point thriller, in the first league game of the season. It was hard luck on the Courcey’s lads who had sportingly made the long trip to Shanbally on Sunday afternoon (it was their home match originally) but they can take solace from the fact that they played some great football over the hour, along with the Shamrocks team. Shamrocks just didn’t give up in this match and made 2 great comebacks after being 6 points down at the start of each half. Team: J.Lynch, J.Brady, D.Barton, J.O’Driscoll, D.Breen, J.Raleigh, D.O?Sullivan, D.Sheehan, C.Caffrey, C.Kidney, T.O’Mahony, J.Wilson, S.Horgan. Subs R.Twomey, L.McCarthy, S.Moore.

 

Under 12 Football League – 26/2

Ballinhassig 2-8, Shamrocks 3-5
Shamrocks and Ballinhassig finished level after a great game of football in Ballinhassig on Saturday last. Conditions were hard for all players but credit is due to both teams. Cal O’Mahony (on his debut) had a great game in goal for Shamrocks along with Peter Barry and the rest of the backs in particular. It was a great turn out as well from the Shamrocks team and credit must go to the mentors in charge of the team. Team: Cal O’Mahony, Peter Barry, Michael Howard, Jack Howard, David Raleigh, Conor Walters, Gary Hackett, Tony O’Mahony (1-3, James Raleigh, Matthew Garvey (1-0), Roy Twomey (0-2), Aonghus Boland, Jack Breen (1-0), Amy Prout and Daniel O’Reilly. Subs Michelle Murphy, Patrick Murphy, Owen Sheehan, Conor Cusack, Koby O’Grady.

 

City Minor Football League – 26/2

Shamrocks 5-4, Delaneys 6-5
A nine goal thriller on the bottom field at Shanbally on Sunday morning last and Delaneys left with the victory. A very young Shamrocks team can count themselves unlucky not to get anything from this game. They came within 1 point of the visitors to Shanbally with one minute left but a successfully converted penalty by Delaneys put paid to their hopes. Delaneys had led by 4-2 to 2-1 at half time; it should have been closer as Shamrocks conceded some very soft scores, one goal in particular. Things improved somewhat in the second half but their efforts fell just short. Philip Brady, an under-16 player, scored 3-4 from centre forward, 3-3 from play. Mickey O’Neill and Eoin Hickey scored the other Shamrocks goals. On the day, besides the just mentioned players, John Cronin and Stephen Downey were Shamrocks best players Training continues this Friday at 5pm with a match next Sunday afternoon against Bishopstown away at 12.15. Team (13-a-side): Fergus O’Neill, Stephen Hurley, Ivan Murphy, Rob Hourihane, Cormac Horgan, Donie Murphy, Paul Lordan, Cian McCann, John Cronin, Philip Brady, Stephen Downey, Michael O’Neill, Eoin Hickey. Subs Cathal Fitzpatrick, Stephen Walters, Billy Murnane.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

 

Week ended – 5th Mar 2006

 

Shamrocks U16 Football League – 4/3

Carrigaline 5-10, Shamrocks 1-4
Shamrocks first venture into the top grade at this level proved to be a harsh lesson indeed. Carrigaline won as they pleased and only for some stout play by some of the Shamrocks players at times the margin would have been greater. It was all over really at half time as the home side led at the break by 2-6 to 1-3 having played against the strong breeze. Shamrocks left their best play behind them at the start of that half as they conceded a quick fire 3-1 within 3 minutes of the restart. The game meandered out to its inevitable conclusion thereafter. Philip Brady was Shamrocks only scorer on the day while Aaron Hickey and Stephen Walters tried very hard in the backs. Team: Tomás Pierce, Stephen Walters, Stephen Hurley, Aaron Hickey, Donie Murphy, Eoin Healy, Alan McCarthy, P.Brady, Stephen Downey, Billy Murnane, Mickey O’Neill, Joey Brady, Colin Murphy, Brian Cusack, Darragh O’Sullivan. Sub used- Cannice Caffrey.

 

Under 14 Football League – 5/3

Shamrocks 4-9, Ballinhassig 2-2
Shamrocks had a comprehensive victory over a gallant blues side at Shanbally on Sunday morning last. There was some outstanding individual performances and in particular Cannice Caffrey stood out. Team: Jack Wilson, Daniel Breen, Jonathan Tuohy, David Barton, Jamie O’Driscoll, Cathal Kidney, James Raleigh, Declan Sheehan, Joey Brady, Darren Barry, Darragh O’Sullivan, Canice Caffrey, Roy Twomey, Laura McCarthy, Shane Horgan. Subs used – Jonathan Lynch, Stephen Moore, Daniel Kelleher.

 

Under 12 Football League – 4/3

Tracton 1-7, Shamrocks 2-1
Shamrocks were unlucky to lose to Tracton in Minane on Saturday afternoon last. Shamrocks couldn’t hold on despite 2 early goals from Roy Twomey and Jack Breen. Michelle Murphy in goal and the entire back line showed up well over the hour.
Panel: Michelle Murphy, Michael Howard, Jack Howard, David Raleigh, Conor Walters, Gary Hackett, Tony O’Mahony, James Raleigh, Matthew Garvey, Roy Twomey, Aonghus Boland, Jack Breen, Amy Prout, Daniel O’Reilly, Patrick Murphy, Owen Sheehan, Conor Cusack, Shane Kelleher

 

Junior Football League – 5/3

Tracton 0-13, Shamrocks 1-11
Shamrocks caused an upset by beating the home side in the second round of the league in Minane on Sunday afternoon. The day after a dinner dance is always frought with danger but Shamrocks scored the winning point through Stephen O’Reilly and Dave O’Neill was another to do well, scoring 1-1.

 

Dinner Dance

The annual Dinner Dance went off without a glitch and was a great success with the crowd up on previous years. Thanks and well done to Todds and Bernard who were the main organisers of the event. Many presentations were made on the night including the junior players getting their South East medals and Neallie O’Mahony getting the Hall of Fame award.

 

Congratulations

Congrats toRingaskiddyNSwho won their section of the indoor hurling schools blitz last week, playing six games over 2 days. Well done also to their coach John O’Herlihy and all concerned. Team: Daniel Breen, David Barton, Cathal Kidney, Canice Caffrey, Roy Twomey, Damien Kelleher, Michael Howard, Tony O’Mahony, David Drinan

                                                                                                                                                                                                                               

 

Deireadh Seachtaine – Domhnach Márta 12ú

 

Sraith Peile Fé 16 – 11/3

Na Seamróga 1-1, Fánaithe na Claise 6-12

An scór deiridh céanna arís agus fuair an dream seo ollbhuille eile, dhá sheachtain as a chéile. Rinne na cuairteoirí an rud a bhí ós a gcomhair – Bhuadar an cluiche gan stró Ach, tá a fhios ag gach éinne agus go háirithe ag an mbord nach bhfuil deis ag na leaids seo bheith iomáiochtach sa chomórtas seo. Ní hé na himreoirí atá againn ní raibh ach trí dhuine dhéag againn ar an Satharn agus ní dhéanann sé ach damáiste á do na leaids eile. Rinne Stephen Walters ag leath chúlaí agus Stephen Hurley nuair a aistríodh é go lár na páirce agus Brian Cusack mar leath tosaí  a ndícheall. Bhí an cluiche thart ag leath ama – (4-6 go 0-1) tar éis bheith ag imirt i ndiaidh na gaoithe. Deineadh scrios orthu sa dara leath. Beidh cluiche eile acu lá le Pádaig as baile in aghaidh Fanaithe na Cuirseacha ag 11.30rn.

 

Sraith Peile Fé 12 – 11/3

Na Seamróga 6-6, Fanaithe na Cuirseacha 4-7

Fuair na Seamróga an lámh in uachtar ar Fhanaithe na Cuirseacha ar an bpáirc i ndiaidh sár­chluiche ar an Satharn i Sean Bhaile. Molaim go hard an dá fhoireann. Bhí na coinníolllacha an-chrua do gach éinne. Bhí na Seamróga chun tosaigh ag leath ama agus lean siad ar aghaidh leis an bhfarasbarr sin go dtí n deireadh. D’ imir na himreoirí seo a leanas go hiontach dos na Seamróga – Jack agus Michael Howard, Jamie agus David Raleigh, Conor Walters, Owen Sheehan agus Aonghus Boland. Bhí Roy Twomey agus Tony O’Mahony freagrach as an chuid is mó do na scóranna. Is é an cluiche eile a bheidh acu ná i ndiaidh Bhaile Garbhán ar an Domhnach beag seo (ag baile).

 

Sraith Peile Soisir – 11/3

Beal Guala 1-10, Na Seamroga 1-5

Chaill na Seamróga an triú cluiche a bhí acu sa tsraith ar an Satharn as baile i mBéal Guala. Bhí n a coinníollacha go hainnis, ceobhrán buan ag titim tríd an gcluiche agus bhí an dromchlá an-tiubh ag an deireadh. Bhí sé deacair seilbh a choiméad ar an liathróid ar an dá thaobh. Thosaigh na cuairteoirí go han-mhaith agus bhí cúpla cuilí ar an gclár laistigh de deich neomat. Cian Ronayne agus Todds le dhá chúilín ó lár na páirce freagrach astu. Cé gur aimsigh Béal Guala pointe go gairid ina dhiaiadh sin, bhí na Seamróga ar muin na muice agus chuireadar dhá chuilín leis an scór roimh fiche neomat, trí Dan Stuart (Ní raibh tuairim dá laghad cad a bhí á dhéanamh aige nuair a tháinig an liathróid isteach!) agus an bheirt lár tosaí Robert McCarthy agus Jamie Sweeney, agus bhí cuma na maitheasa ar na Seamróga. Ach, pé rud a tharla leo ina dhiadh sin, níor scóráil siad don chuid eile den chluiche. Tháinig Béal Guala ar ais isteach sa chluiche agus scóráileadar 1-9 gan freagra in san am sin. D’éag na Seamróga in san tréimhse sin, go háirithe sa dara leath. Bhí seilbh na liathróide ag an bhfoireann bhaile sa dara leath agus agus ní fhacamar mórán ó thosaithe na Seamróga. Chun a bheith macánta ní bhfuair siad an laithroid. Foireann: B.Mulqueen, C.Brady, P. Prout, K. Roche, K. Hegarty, D. Roche, S. O’ Reilly, Todds, N. Hayes, O. Boland, D. Sheehan, C. Ronayne, J.Sweeney, D. Stuart, R.McCarthy. Fir Ionaid : B.Hickey, A. Sweeney, P.Andrews, C.Deasy, R.Lannon. 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

 

Week ended – 19th Mar 2006

 

Sraith Iomána na Cathrach – Lá Fhéile Phádraig

Baile an Easpaig 0-10, Na Seamróga 0-7
An chéid chluiche sa chomórtas seo i 2006 agus an chéad dhá phaointe curtha amú ag na Seamróga. Nílmid ag baint úsáide as leithscéalta anseo ach ní imreodh an cluiche seo sa chéad áit Bhí na coinníollacha go hainnis chun na fírinne a rá agus bhí an pháirc faoi chosa an-bhog ar fad. Mhínigh sé sin go raibh gach scór an-tábhachtach ar an maidin. Thosaigh na Seamróga níos fearr ag imirt leis an ngaoth agus bhíodar ar 0-4 in aghaidh 0-1 chun tosaigh tar éis 20 neomat, trí Rob Lannon agus Coilín Ó Suilleabháin ó phucanna saora. Ach, ba mhistéar é go ndeachaigh na cuaiteoirí ina chodladh don chuid eile den chluiche. Tháinig Baile an Easpaig ar ais sa cluiche roimis leathama agus ní rabhadar ach pointe chun deiridh ag athrú taobhanna. Bhí na coinníollacha an-shleamhain anois agus fuair Baile an Easpaig an chuid eile de na cuiliní ó phocanna saora chun an bua a thógaint. D’imir cosantoirí na Seamróga go maith ar an maidin ach b’easpa pollta é chun tosaigh. Foireann: P.Andrews, S.Andrews, P.Prout, K.Roche, C.Ronayne, S.Collins, D.Roche, B.Mulqueen, B.Sweeney, T.O’Sullivan, P.O’Sullivan, S.O’Neill, C.O’Sullivan, R.Lannon, B.Hickey. Ionadaithe – O.Boland.

 

Under 12 Football League – 19/3

Shamrocks had a comfortable win over a very understrength Ballygarvan on Sunday morning last. The whole team played well on the day and Peter Barry at full back, Michael Howard at midfield and the two girls up front, Michelle and Amy were Shamrocks best players. Next game is at home to Crosshaven next Monday night, remember that the clocks go forward this coming Saturday night ensuring plenty of evening games from now on for all teams.

 

Under 21 Football Championship – 19/3

Shamrocks 0-5, Ballymartle 0-10
Ballymartle deservedly won this first round game in Shanbally as the hosts made a limp exit from the championship. This was awful stuff altogether from Shamrocks. They are better than this and one possibly couldn’t imagine a worse team performance on the day. Ballymartle cared, some of the Shamrocks lads didn?t and it showed in the end, Shamrocks minds seemed to be a million miles away. Ballymartle should have been out of sight at half time but for some excellent goalkeeping from Shamrocks keeper Barry Mulqueen, who brilliantly tipped over 3 piledrivers and saved another penalty. Bally led at half time 0-7 to 0-1, having played with the wind. We spent the whole of the second half waiting for someone to reignite Shamrocks but apart from a few late points they never got going at all. Concession of three ridiculously silly frees right in front of the Shamrocks goal in the last ten minutes didn’t help matters either. Shamrocks are now out of the competition without even once raising a gallop. Team : B.Mulqueen, D.Tuohy, D.Hayes, I.Murphy, O.Boland, S.O’Reilly, S.Bourke, S.Andrews, T.O’Sullivan, C.McCann, C.O’Neill, N.Kirwan, C.O’Neill, J.Shanahan, T.Barrett. Sub used – R.McCarthy.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                

 

Week ended – 26th Mar 2006

 

City Minor Football League – 22/3

Carrigaline B 1-7,Shamrocks 2-9
The Minors had a great win under lights on Wednesday night in Carrigaline’s second pitch. They had been struggling on since the start of the year with limited resources and bad luck and this was a well deserved win for everyone involved, selectors and players alike, many of them under 16’s (7 of them in Fact). This win certainly came out of the blue as Shamrocks raised their game against their opponents. The early exchanges were even enough with Gary Ronayne and Philip Brady pointing for Shamrocks. Carrigaline struck back and led 1-3 to 0-3 before half forward John Cronin struck home a rebound to bring Shamrocks level. Gary ronayne long free was added to by Rob Hourihane before bouncing over the bar to leave Shamrocks a point ahead at the break. The second half was very exciting. Shamrocks opened a 4 point cushion through Mickey O’Neill, John Cronin and Jonathon Cook points from play before Carrigaline put in a storming last 10 minutes. They added a few points while Fergus O’Neill in the Shamrocks goal managed to get his fingertips to a low goalbound shot to keep Carrigaline out. This was the lift Shamrocks needed and they sealed the deal with a great Jason Browne breakaway goal and a few Philip Brady frees. Next game is next Monday night in Camden, the players meet at the Cross in Shanbally at 5.45. We congratulate Carrigaline by the way on their floodlight faclities, playing a match there really isnt any bother.

 

Games cancelled
All other games and training due to be played by the club last weekend were cancelled because of the monsoon weather conditions

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                

        

Week ended – 2nd Apr 2006

 

Presidents Awards
One of the hardest working men in the GAA got a very fitting award last Saturday in Croke Park when the president of the GAA presented John Twomey with a president awards. This was in recognition of his life long service to Shamrocks and Carrigdhoun GAA matters. After playing with the club from 1957 to 1991, our current club chairman went on to distinguish himself off the pitch by becoming one of the best administrators around, while still maintaining a high level of humour and courtesy to all who he encountered. From all at the club here in your beloved Shamrocks we congratulate you John and if this seems like your epitath then you can think again because no-one in the club can come near your administrative skills just yet so plough on and here’s to many more productive years ahead.

 

U12 Football League – 3/4

Shamrocks 4-6 , Valley Rovers 3-7
Shamrocks won this absolute thriller of a game of football to keep up their good run in the league. Rovers had a strong team out and can count themselves most unlucky to be going home with no points from Shanbally. Shamrocks fought off a strong second half comeback from the visitors with a late Daniel Hayes goal and a Tony O’Mahony point being the deciding scores from a Shamrocks point of view. Shamrocks led 2-4 to 0-3 at half time and appeared home and dry through scores from Jack Breen and Roy Twomey amongst others. But Rovers really came back strong in the second half and Shamrocks had to battle very hard for the win, especially James Raleigh at centre back, Michael Howard at corner back, Tony O’Mahony at centre field and Roy Twomey in the forwards Team: Cal O’Mahony, Jack Howard, Peter Barry, Michael Howard, David Raleigh, James Raleigh, Gary Hartnett, Tony O’Mahony, Matthew Garvey, Aonghus Boland, Roy Twomey, Conor Walter, Conor Cusack, Jack Breen, Daniel O’Reilly. Subs Michelle Murphy, Owen Sheehan, Daniel Hayes.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

 

Week ended – 9th Apr 2006

 

Junior Football League – 7/4

Shamrocks went down to a 3 point defeat to Carrigaline in Shanbally on Friday night. The result of this game actually didn’t matter to either team league position wise and there was a certain air of a challenge match to it. Carrigaline deserved their win on the night and played some good football like when dispatching the ball to the Shamrocks net with the very first attack of the game. Shamrocks played catch up for the rest of the match and lead 0-7 to 1-3 at half time through some nice scores from Joe Shanahan, Terence O’Sullivan, Dave Bourke and Dave O’Neill. Carrigaline were the better team in the second half and Dave O’Neill’s goal at the end for Shamrocks came just that bit too late to have an effect. Carrigaline won 1-13 to 1-10 on a night when both teams benefited from the exercise with championship around the corner. Shamrocks play the first round of the championship this coming Easter Sunday versus Ballymartle in Minane Bridgewith a 11.30am throw in.

 

U16 Football League – 5/4

Shamrocks 0-5 , Kinsale 4-10
The under 16’s continue to struggle in the top grade at football but this was one of those scorelines that just didnt do justice to them at all. Kinsale arrived having beaten Carrigaline and Valley Rovers and were expected to stroll all over Shamrocks. But the home side put in an encouragibg display. Kinsale started brightly and were 1-3 to no score ahead after 10 minutes. But Shamrocks lifted their game for the next 30 minutes of the match and more than held their own. They had fought back to 2-5 to 0-3 behind at half time but their spell after half time was their best all year. They pinned Kinsale back playing up the hill against the wind with some great performances from Stephen Hurley and Walters, Eoin Healy, Donie Murphy, Philip Brady (0-5), Darragh O’Sullivan and Cannice Caffery at corner forward and were unlucky not to have got a goal or two. At 2-5 to 0-5 down, Kinsale got 3 quick fire points in a row and the brave Shamrocks fight was over, despite 2 great saves from Tomá³ Pierce in the Shamrocks goal. Team: T.Pierce, A.Hickey, S.Hurley, S.Walters, E.Healy, A.McCarthy, D.Murphy, P.Brady, C.O’Neill, D.O’Sullivan, B.Cusack, B.Murnane, C.Caffrey, J.Brady, C.Murphy.

 

U14 Hurling League – 7/4

Ballygarvan 1-11, Shamrocks 1-3
Shamrocks opened their hurling league account in Ballygarvan on Friday night and the verdict is that a very young Shamrocks team have a lot of work ahead of them this year to make any strides at this grade. Joey Brady got the Shamrocks goal and only for Tony O’Mahony in the Shamrocks goal (who was outstanding), this could have been a cricket score. He was simply unbeatable.

 

Minor Football League – 8/4

Bishopstown 4-8, Shamrocks 4-3
Shamrocks turned in an average performance in this league game played in Bishopstown on Saturday afternoon last. Shamrocks only played in fits and starts and couldn’t really complain about the final scoreline. Philip Brady was again the main scoring threat for Shamrocks and scored 2-2 from midfield, his two goals being of the highest quality. Jonathan Cook also got 2 great goals, while Stephen Downey completed the Shamrocks scoring with a point. Besides the afore mentioned players, Alan McCarthy, Jason Browne, Gary Ronayne and Donie Murphy played well for Shamrocks on an afternoon when Shamrocks were again minus a few notable players.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

 

Week ended – 16th Apr 2006

 

Junior Football Championship – 16/4

Shamrocks 0-12, Ballymartle 0-9
Shamrocks survived a stern test from a committed Ballymartle side at Minane Bridge last Sunday morning. This was a tricky opening assignement and midway through the second half it looked as if the men from the Riverstick direction would prevail as the went 2 points up against an underperforming Shamrocks side and had the wind and the momentum behind them. But Shamrocks managed to salvage something from this low point and more. They outscored Ballymartle 5 points to 1 in that closing period. Ballymartle scored first after 2 minutes but Shamrocks took over completely and were much the better team for the next 15 minutes – if you can call 7 wides in 9 minutes being better than the other team. They simply couldn’t score but eventually Seanan Collins settled the early jitters with Shamrocks first point. They went on to lead 0-4 to 0-1 through Stevie Neill and Joe Shanahan before Ballymartle came into it to level 4 all. Brian Sweeney and debutant Tomas Barrett slotted over points to leave Shamrocks looking good coming up to half time, 0-6 to 0-4. Ballymartle started the second half on top and went a point in front and looked set for victory before Shamrocks much improved their play, their best of the season so far. The back line held firm in the last 5 minutes when Ballymartle came looking for the elusive equalising goal. Team: B.Mulqueen, D.Hayes, P.Prout, S.Andrews, M.Prout, S.O’Reilly, O.Boland, C.O’Neill, T.O’Sullivan, C.Ronayne, S.Collins, T.Barrett, J.Shanahan, B.Sweeney, S.O?Neill. Subs used – K.Griffen, S.Kelly

 

Minor Update – 11/4

Bishopstown 4-8, Shamrocks 4-3
Shamrocks have played three games in the last 4 days, losing all three. First they lost away to Bishopstown by 4-8 to 4-3 in the City football League in Bishopstown on Saturday (8th)(see other report below). Philip Brady was once again the main scoring threat, scoring a fabulous 2-2. Jonathan Cook chipped in with 2 goals along with Stephen Downeys point. They played their first hurling game away to the Barrs on Monday night and lost 4-11 to 1-8. A dismal first half display left them behind 2-8 to 0-2 at the break (soft goals conceded) but in fairness to the lads they got stuck in in the second half and really made a fist of it. The switch of Gary Ronayne to centre forward was the catalyst for the improvement as he scored 1-3. Mickey O’Neill went outfield for the second half in a swop with Jason Browne and both made excellent contributions. The game on Tuesday was against Whites Cross in the football league and is a game best forgotten. Shamrocks were appauling and conceded 8-8 against 2-1. Whites Cross werent extended in any way and won as they pleased. They Shamrocks players who did turn up lost heart after about the 3rd Whites Cross goal, and simply gave up and when they did gain posession it was straight up into the air with it, no thought at all. It must be said that the lack of Minor players is coming against Shamrocks. On all three occasions over the last 3 games loads of players have been missing and letting us down. The mentors have called a meeting for next Tuesday night to see where they go because they arent getting the committment – everything from pitch and putt to scouts to discos to God knows what are impinging on the team.

 

U12 Football League – 10/4

Douglas2 3-9, Shamrocks 3-7
Douglas just about came out on top in this thriller of a game of football in Shanbally Monday night. This wasDouglas’ second team of three but dont let this fool you; they are a very strong set up and are actually the county champions so Shamrocks can be proud of their performance. Shamrocks record now reads 3 wins, 2 loses and a draw so they are well in the hunt to qualify for the semi finals in a few weeks.Douglas overpowered Shamrocks in the first half and led 3-5 to 0-1 at the break. But Shamrocks came roaring back in the second half mainly through great play from Peter Barry (son of Kevin John and grandson of the great Cmdt Kevin Barry) at full back, Jack Howard, Gary Hartnett, David Raleigh and Matthew Garvey and the two girls Michelle Murphy and Amy Prout. Tony O’Mahony scored 2-3 while Roy Twomey scored 1-3. Our thanks to our mentors Ian Breen, Jim Raleigh and Pat Q who are keeping this lively bunch going.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  

 

Week ended – 23rd Apr 2006

 

John Kerins Memorial Trophy (U11 Football) – 22/4

This is a very important tournament that Shamrocks participate in every year. This year we played 3 qualifying games in Ballygarvan which went as follows: Firstly up Shamrocks beat Passage (who beat us in the final last year) 2-0 to 0-2 (Jack Breen and Aonghus Boland with the goals). Our second game was against Ballinora which we lost agonisingly to a last minute goal (Daniel O’Reilly with the Shamrocks goal). Finally, in the last game against Ballygarvan, Shamrocks won, much to the delight of the players, mentors and parents. The scoreline was 3-3 to 0-0 (Daniel O’Reilly with a penalty; Conor Walters, Aonghus Boland and Jack Breen being the other scorers). This victory sent us into the finals which will be held in Pairc Ui Rinn on May 20th. This is an extremely young Shamrocks team and great credit is due to Ian Breen, Pat Q, Jim Raleigh and Oisin Boland for looking after the team. A special mention also to the members of the u8’s and u9’s who made their debuts for the club, namely Mark Hitchmough, Brendan Crowley, Koby O’Grady, Christopher Hayes, Andrew O’Grady and all the other lads who were training hard all year every Saturday morning. A special word of thanks to the parents who went out in support of the team.

 

U16 Football League – 19/4

Sliabh Rua 6-14, Shamrocks 5-6
Shamrocks and Sliabh Rua played out a very high scoring game at Riverstick on Wednesday night last. Sliabh Rua sportingly agreed to play 13 against 13 as Shamrocks already limited panel were short a few on the night. Even though Shamrocks elected to play down the hill in the first half, they found themselves 3 goals down by half time. Shamrocks did however play very well on the resumption and played their best football of the night in this period and actually had the deficit down to one goal. But their luck wasn’t in and Sliabh Rua went down the other end and reasserted themselves on the scoreboard. Shamrocks missed loads of chances on the night when the play was open and fast. Next game is away to Courcey Rovers on this Wednesday night, players meeting at Shanbally church at 5.45pm for the journey.

 

U14 Hurling League – 18/4

Carrigaline (2) 1-0, Shamrocks 1-8 Shamrocks recorded their first hurling victory of the season last Tuesday week. The effort the boys have been putting in on the training field showed itself. Jonathan Tuohy was outstanding at full back, Cathal Kidney likewise at centre back while up front Joey Brady kept himself busy at half forward. Darragh O’Sullivan was the free taker and he got most of the Shamrocks scores. There might be a game for this group this Thursday night, if not there’s training at the track.

 

U12 Football League – 21/4 and 24/4

Shamrocks played two matches in the last week and it resulted in 2 victories which puts Shamrocks in the semi finals, to be played next Monday against yet to be revealed opponents. Friday night produced a very exciting game of football between two evenly matched teams in Shamrocks and Crosshaven in excellent conditions- the pitch had just been cut before the match by Pato. Crosshaven led early on with some good points . Halt time and the visitors to Shanbally were leading 0-8 to 0-3. Shamrocks played a lot better in the second half after some strong words form Pat Q and Jim Ronayne. With 10 minutes left Roy Twomey got a great goal to leave Shamrocks trailing by 2 points. With a minute to go the same player scored a goal from a free that Beckham would have been proud of. A point followed from the kick out to leave Shamrocks winners by a solitary point. The defence was outstanding especially Peter Barry who came back early from his holidays to play and also Calin goal. Jack Howard and David Raleigh, both u10 players, showed the rest of them how to do it. Tony O’Mahony scored 6 points throughout the game. On Monday night, Shamrocks had a comfortable victory over Carrigaline’s second team. This was a very young Carrigaline team and Shamrocks best players on the night were the younger brigade again, led by Aonghus Boland, Daniel O’Reilly and James Raleigh.

 

Club Presentation – 19/4

The club made a presentation to John Twomey last Wednesday night at Pfizers Sports Club in lieu of his recent Presidents award in Dublin. It was just a small appreciation from the club to which John has given over the last 40 odd years of his life. It seemed a very enjoyable night where past and present Shamrocks players mingled with invited guests Con Murphy, Jim Forbes, Liam Webb and members of his family.

 

Another All-Ireland Champion

Believe it or not Shamrocks have another All-Ireland champion. Junior panelist and club PRO Patrick Andrews take a bow. The ASTI(Association of Secondary Teachers of Ireland) held their annual convention in Ennis during the week and Pa was a member of the Cork South delegation. A puc fada competition was held on Wednesday afternoon for all delegates and in the hollowed grounds of Saint Flannans College Pa brought the title back to Corkand Shamrocks. He was actually third with one puck left but there was a sudden miraculous gust of wind and showing all his Leaving Cert Geography knowledge he drove it back towards Corkand Shanbally and the ball (which handily enough was a Cummins) landed 20 yards beyond some fella from Tipperary. Christ if he’d failed to beat a Tipp man he’d have been met at the county bounds in Charleville by a not so nice gang of Corkmen shall we say. Seriously, another All-Ireland champion from the club was created and we say well done. Patrick won a choice of stand tickets for the Munsteror Leinsterhurling finals (have a guess his choice) and a lovely trophy of Cuchullainn, which just happens to be on the missing list these past few years! If you know where it is, please get onto Pa as its the only thing he’s ever won.

 

Junior Hurling Update – 21/4

Once the first round of the football championship is over hurling kicks in and Shamrocks have played two matches since beating Ballymartle on Easter Sunday. They started with a City League victory over Delaneys at the Track last Wednesday week (19th). Shamrocks were always on top in this one despite being short a few regulars. Colin O’Sullivan and Rob Lannon in the full forward line were the Shamrocks goal scorers on the night, when the final scoreline was 2-11 to 0-8. More on this later. On the following Friday afternoon they travelled to play Courceys second team in the South East league and emerged with a valuable two point victory after a tough hours hurling against a decent home side. Shamrocks were led 2-7 to 1-8 at half time, full forward Rob Lannon plucking a high ball out of the air before billowing the Courceys net for the Shamrocks goal. It took Shamrocks a long time to wear the plucky home side down in the second half and after Courcey Rovers led by three points Shamrocks got on top mainly through Colin O’Sullivans bullet like semi penalty to the net and a few frees from same. Seanán Collins also added a terrific score from long range. O’Sullivan (1-9) played a great game at midfield as did Senan Andrews in the backs. Final score 2-14 to 2-12. Darren Roche, Todds, Oisin Boland and Rob Lannon had their moments. Players used over both games: C.O’Neill, S.O’Reilly, P.Prout, S.Andrews, K.Roche, D.Roche, S.Collins, S.Bourke, B.Mulqueen, S.O’Neill, C. Fitzpatrick, T.O’Sullivan, C.O’Sullivan, R.Lannon, C.Ronayne, J.Sweeney, D.Hayes, D.O’Neill, B.Hickey, P.Andrews.

 

Junior B Football League – 18/4

The Junior B’s lost the first game in the South East league on Tuesday night. This is a thirteen a side competition but if both clubs are agreed 15 start which was the case against Rochestown on the following Sunday. Shamrocks were well beaten on the night and had no answer to Ballygarvans style of football, the final score being 2-13 to 0-6. Karl Griffin was Shamrocks most consistent performer on the night. On Sunday morning a patched up Shamrocks team (they had no footballs, jerseys or personel to pick the team) were deservedly beaten by Rochestown in Rochestown. Shamrocks played in black and amber jerseys due to a mix up in communication. The final score was 3-9 to 0-10 and the three goals, well, you’d travel a long way to see bigger mess ups than those. They were just pure comedy. Pat O’Sullivan, Karl Griffin at full back, Bernard hickey, Rob Lannon when brought out the field, Dave Bourke and Patrick Andrews were the only Shamrocks players who came out of the game with any credit while Rob Lannon, Jason Deasy, Colin O’Sullivan and Dave O’Neill did the scoring. Next game in next Tuesday night away to Crosshaven.

 

Minor Update – 11/4

The minors played Kinsale last Friday night in the hurling league. Report to follow after the match and were thouraghly outplayed by our visitors. The gulf in class was all too evident. While Shamrocks gave em timber and werent afraid to get stuck in, they were limited overall compared to Kinsales greater class and skill, which carried the day in the end. GaryRonayne at midfield and John Cronin at half forward were the two Shamrocks players to emerge form the game with reputations intact. Team: J.Browne, I.Murphy, R.Murphy, R.Hourihane, F.O’Neill, S.Hurley, G.Ronayne, P.Brady, J.Cronin, P.Lordan, S.Downey, M.O’Neill, C.McCann, (13 a side). Sub used S.Walter.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  

 

Week ended – 30th Apr 2006

 

City Junior Hurling Update – 26/4

Shamrocks 1-12, Donoughamore 1-10
Shamrocks played out a tough encounter with Donoughamore who made the long trip to Shanbally on Wednesday night before emerging with a deserved 2 point victory. This was a tough hours hurling between two committed teams and it certainly wasnt for the faint hearted. Shamrocks scored a goal with the very first attack through Bernard hickey and this proved to be a vital score in the context of the game. Both teams found scores hard to come by thereafter as defences were on top but Shamrocks managed to lead at half time by 1-4 to 0-6, points from Rob Lannon and Mickey Prout operating at wing forward. The second half was tit for tat all the way and after Donoughamore scored a goal to go ahead by a point they looked good for victory. But the introduction of a few subs by shamrocks seemed to work and Rob Lannon, Ciaran Fitzpatrick and Colin O’Sullivan slapped over some nice points to leave Shamrocks leading by a solitary point entering the last 8 minuts. These last few minutes were frantic before sub Pat O’Sullivan whipped over a beauty to slam the door shut on Donoughamore’s hopes. Team: C.O’Neill, S.Andrews, P.Prout, S.O’Reilly, D.Roche, S.collins, O.Boland, b.Mulqueen, T.O’Sullivan, S.O’Neill, C.Fitzpatrick, M.Prout, B.Hickey, R.Lannon, D.O’Neill. Subs used – B.Sweeney, C.O’Sullivan, P.O’Sullivan.

 

U14 Hurling League – 27/4 and 28/4

Shamrocks played a game each on last Thursday (27th) and Friday (28th) nights They had a comfortable win over Douglas2 on the Thursday and played a great match against Tracton on Friday night before going down by 1-4 to 0-3. The lads have definetly improved as the season has gone on and more training is planned. Tracton finished the stronger on Friday night, the Shamrocks lads feeling the effects of 2 games in 2 days. Jonathan Tuohy at full back is playing great hurling at present as is Joey Brady on the half forward wing.

 

Senior Championship

Eight different players from the Shamrocks club have played Senior County Championship over the last week, all with Carrigdhoun. Mickey Prout, Chris O’Neill, Joe Shanahan and Brian Sweeney all played with the footballers in their win over Avondhu last Sunday and Mickey Prout, Brian Sweeney, Seanán Collins (captain), Senan Andrews, Colin O’Sullivan and Rob Lannon (bloodsub) all played in their home ground of Shanbally for Carrigdhoun against winners UCC last Tuesday.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                

 

Week ended – 7th May 2006

 

Under 12 Football Semi Final – 3/5

Shamrocks lost to a very strong Kinsale side at the Semi Final stage. What happened this year was that the bottom two from the B grade (Kinsale being of of them) played off against one of the top two from the C grade (Shamrocks). Shamrocks started very well and were 4 points up early doors. They then conceded a goal after a goalmouth mix-up but responded with 4 unanswered points at the other end. Shamrocks conceded another goal and a point before half time. The second half saw Kinsale score 2 early goals forcing the Shamrocks lads to chase the game thereafter, without ever looking like they would do it. So Shamrocks football season comes to an end but they are a very young team who accounted well for themselves this season. Special thanks to the mentors Pat Q, Ian Breen, Jim Ronayne and Jim Raleigh who have given so much of their time to this team this year. Training for the under 12 hurling starts next Monday at 7.30 at the Track.

 

Schools mini 7’s Hurling – 3/5

This competition was played in Shanbally last Wednesday. Eight teams took part in what was an excellent days hurling on the two pitches. Ringaskiddy NS beat a very strong Glountane NS 2-5 to 2-2 in their opening game and followed this up by beating Glenville 1-4 to 0-2 to set up a final with St Anthonys boys school of Ballinlough. This proved a step too far for the Ring lads as they lost 4-5 to 1-3. Team: Roy Twomey, Dan Breen, David Barton, Cathal Kidney, David Drinan, Mick Howard, Tony O’Mahony, Josh Hanlon, Damien Kelleher and Daniel Galvin. Special thanks were given to the Shamrocks club for the use of their facitities and to Tony O’Sullivan for setting up the 2 pitches. They also beat Aghada this week
Ring school made up for the disappointment in losing that day by qualifying for the final of the Sciath na Scol the next day. They beat a very sporting Rennies team who has had a great relationship with the school over the years. These two schools have playes challenge matches against each other in all kinds of weather over the course of the year and it just shows how our national sports can bring these two small schools together.

 

City Junior Hurling Update – 3/5

Shamrocks 2-10, St Finbarrs 2-8
Played in swirling wind conditions, Shamrocks were a tad fortunate to come away with the 2 league points to continue their revival in the City league in a game played in Shanbally. Shamrocks were never actually led and only for a late surge by the Barrs would have won by more. They spread their scorers around much better in this game in contrast to other games and over the hour Mickey Prout, Todds Sweeney, Barry Mulqueen, Dave O’Neill, Colin O’Sullivan from frees, Seaná® Collins from frees as well and sub Cian Ronayne got on the score sheet. Seaná® Collins long free in the first half went all the way to the Barrs net and this was quickly followed by Barry Mulqueens admittedly weak shot (Barry told me to say he put spin on it after reading this!)which somehow managed to evade the keeper and end up in the back of the same net. Shamrocks were well in control in the first half, however they seemed to switch off in the second especially up in the forwards were there was a cutting edge lacking. The barrs got a late goal to add to their first half effort but they couldnt quite close the gap. On the night, Senan Andrews, Keith Roche, Reilly, sub Dave Hayes, Oisin Boland (2nd half), Todds and Mickey Prout who slotted over some nice points from play were the pick of the bunch. Team: C.O’Neill, S.Andrews, K.Roche, S.O’Reilly, O.Boland, S.Collins, D.Roche, B.Sweeney, C.O’Sullivan, M.Prout, C.Fitzpatrick, T.O’Sullivan, B.Mulqueen, R.Lannon, D.O’Neill. Subs used – D.Sheehan, P.O’Sullivan, D.Hayes, C.Ronayne.

 

South East Junior Hurling Update – 4/5

Carrigaline 2-5, Shamrocks 2-3
Shamrocks will have to buck up a notch or two in the South East League, of which they are the reigning champions, if they are to regain their trophy this year. They were straight out again the night after, and chances were given to some of the players who hadnt featured against the Barrs the night previous. For far too long in this game Shamrocks seemed disinterested and lots of work lay ahead in the coming weeks and beyond if they are to have as productive a campaign as last year. Conditions were very greasy but thats no excuse. The forwards wasted a world of ball in the first half in which Shamrocks scored a paltry 2 points, both from placed ball from Seanan Collins, one of them a penalty. Carrigaline scored an early goal when the defence gave their scorer no less than three chances to bury it. The second half was all huff and puff from Shamrocks again. It did come alive with 15 minutes left as Shamrocks scored 2 goals in a minute through Dave Bourke and Terence O’Sullivan to leave them ahead undeservedly by a point. But Carrigaline scored the winner with a rasper with 3 minutes left and just held on. Team: P.Andrews, S.Andrews, K.Roche, D.Hayes, S.Collins, D.Roche, D.Sheehan, B.Sweeney, C.Brady, C.Ronayne, T.O’Sullivan, B.Mulqueen, D.O’Neill, B.Hickey, D.Bourke. Subs used -J.Sweeney, G.Ronayne.

 

Junior B Football League – 2/5

The Junior B’s are suffering from a complete lack of football at the moment and its all too evident in their league performances. They were comprehensively beaten by Crosshaven (1st team) in Camdenon Tuesday night. While getting numbers out isnt a problem, putting scores on the board is. Shamrocks played against a gale of a wind in the first half and couldnt really have done any better than to be behind by only 1-5 to 0-0 at half time. But Crosshaven showed that they have been football training recently by racking up a big score in the second half to run out easy winners. Shamrocks did mount a challenge midway through the scond half with some scores from Dave O’Neill and David Bourke and got within 2 goals of the home team. But after they got their 3rd goal the bubble burst on the Shamrocks team and the heads went down, caving the way for a productive last quarter for Crosshaven. Sean Kelly scored the Shamrocks goal, final score Crosshaven 5-14, Shamrocks 1-5. Team: P.Andrews, C.Brady, K.Roche, D.Bourke, K.Griffin, D.Sheehan, S.Kelly, R.Lannon, J.Sweeney, C.Fitzpatrick, B.Hickey, D.O’Neill, K.Hennerty. Subs used – R.McCarthy, A.Sweeney (13 a side)

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  

 

Week ended – 14th May 2006

 

South East Junior Hurling Update – 10/5

Shamrocks 0-17, Ballymartle 2-12
This was a fast paced South East league game played under perfect conditions for once after the recent rain. Both teams can be happy with the high scoring on both sides with the visitors obviously also enjoying a one point victory in the end, in a game that served as a nice warm up for the upcoming championship. It was the two first half goals for Ballymartle that really carved open the contest in their favour as otherwise both teams were fairly evenly matched throughout the tight hours hurling. Shamrocks had 11 points on the board at half time, Barry Mulqueen and Mickey Prout shining brightest for the home team in that first half, accounting for the majority of the scores. However, Ballymartle had been chipping away at the other end also and had accumulated 2-7 of their own by the short whistle. All to play for in the second half and Ballymartle just stayed that point or two in front of Shamrocks despite good play from Todds Sweeney at centre back, Darren Roche at half back and Seaná® Collins as an emergency full back, as the back line as a unit tightened up. But the forwards lacked that cutting edge in front of goals to mount an assault on the Ballymartle goal to score that goal that probably would have won the game for Shamrocks. Team: P.Andrews, D.Hayes, C.Brady, S.Collins, D.Roche, B.Sweeney, C.Ronayne, C.O’Neill, B.Mulqueen, T.O’Sullivan, C.Fitzpatrick, M.Prout, D.Bourke, R.Lannon, B.Hickey. Subs used – S.O’Reilly, P.O’Sullivan, C.O’Sullivan, G.Ronayne.

 

City Junior Hurling Update – 11/5

Shamrocks 3-8, Na Piarsaigh 2-18
Shamrocks played their second game in 24 hours, this time in the City league and went down to a slick Piarsaigh. Shamrocks gave run outs to many players who didnt feature the night before and I suppose in a way it contributed to the defeat because the championship teasm wasnt out. However, on the night, the home side were outhurled by Na Piarsaigh who featured some players who had played Senior last year. Piarsiagh blew Shamrocks away in the first 10 minutes and led 1-5 to 0-0 before Shamrocks scored a goal. The half time score was 1-12 to 2-3, Gary Ronayne with the other Shamrocks goal. Shamrocks were under the cosh but came more into it after the restart with some positional changes and came within 5 points of Piarsaighs. But, this would have been an unlikely victory and Piarsaighs finished with a flurry of points and a goal to settle the issue. Team: C.’Neill, C.Brady, S.Collins, S.O’Reilly, D.Sheehan, B.Sweeney, O.Boland, B.Mulqueen, M.Prout, C.Fitzpatrick, T.O’Sullivan, D.O’Neill, C.O’Sullivan, K.Hennerty.

 

Whitechurch 0-15, Shamrocks 1-6
Shamrocks made the long trip to Whitechurch on Monday night and might as well have stayed at home such was the ineptitude of the display. It was rubbish and they were outplayed by a limited team. Shamrocks have ambitions for the year and losing 4 on the trot is not one of them, players missing or not. Whitechurch went into an early lead and never looked back. They tagged on some scores while Shamrocks replied through Colin O’Sullivan and Barry Mulqueen. Whitechurch led at half time 0-8 to 0-4. The second half wasnt much better into the wind for Shamrocks. They needed some early scores but couldnt with a rearranged team. After Whitechurch had stretched ahead 0-10 to 0-4 Cian Ronayne tapped home a goal but this was as close as Shamrocks came. All their huff and puff was in vain as Whitechurch tagged on a few insurance scores.

 

Under 14 Hurling

The under 14 hurlers were well beaten by a very strong and big Crosshaven team in Camden last week and now are out of the competition. The club would like to thank Sid Kidney, Oliver McCann and Sean Horgan who put in the effort with the team in the last few months.

 

Under 12 Hurling – 15/5

If anyone doubted the problems we’re encountering in underage hurling then Brinny was the place to be on Monday night. Shamrocks were absolutely beaten out the gate by Valley Rovers second team. Only the goalkeeper Moore and the fullback line of the Howard brothers and Daniel Fleming were up to scratch.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    

 

Week ended – 21st May 2006

 

John Kerins Memorial Trophy Finals – 20/5

Shamrocks played Whites Cross in the semi-Final and came away with a great victory to secure a place in the final against Donoghmore. This proved to be a very difficult game and even though we were beaten the team can hold their heads up high as they gave 110%. This is a very young team with many of the children coming from DickAndrewsSchoolof excellence on Saturday mornings. A large group of parents, supporters & mentors traveled last Saturday in what turned out to be a most enjoyable occasion for the children. Special thanks most go to Ian, Jim Raleigh, Pat Q, Oisin, Steven & Dick for looking after this team. Thanks also to the Gardai for organizing this event & for the refreshments that the teams got throughout the day.Ringaskiddy N.S. hurling final is on in Pairc Ui Rinn next Friday 26th May @ 2.30 pm. A special bus is leaving the school at 1.00pm (Moog Cross) for any member interested in traveling. Please give your name ASAP to the school as seats are limited. There was no U-14 action last weekend as all our selectors jump ship and joined the Rugby Brigade. Sid, Oliver, Sean & Kieran were last seen in Cardiff Saturday night trying to get new players from overseas to join our club. There is a limited number of the club gear bags left for sale. Contact John Twomey or Sid.

 

Heineken Cup connection

Im sure most members of the club were watching Munstersgreat victory over Biarritzin the Heineken Cup Final in Cardifflast Saturday. Well, Munstersnumber 7 David Wallace is from Monkstown and his brother Paul played for Shamrocks up until he was a Minor/Under 21. Paul later went on to represent the Lions in South Africain 1997. In fact this writer met David last year in Limerickafter a match “over a few jars” and he was enquiring as to the current health of the club. Needless to say it took me a long time into the night to inform him of how we were doing! The guy is a gentleman. We congratulate him and all the rest of the players on a well deserved triumph.

 

Sciath Na Scol – 12/5

Ringaskiddy 5-06 Rathduff 3-01
This game was played in Shanbally last Friday and resulted in a great win for the local lads. All the team played well especially Daniel Breen, David Drinan & David Barton. They led 2-01 to 1-01 at half time thanks to goals from the Breen brothers. They added further scores in the 2nd half to set the school up for a famous win. They are now playing Crosshaven in the final next Friday 26th May in Pairc Ui Rinn @ 2.30pm. A bus is leaving the school at 1.00PM for all parents and children. Our best wishes to them. This is their first appearance in a hurling final since 1999.
Best wishes are also extended to Daniel Breen (Hurling) & to David Drinan (Football) in their trails for the Dairygold Cork schools teams.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  

 

Week ended – 28th May 2006

 

Junior Championship 1st Round – 25/6

Shamrocks 2-20, Ballygarvan 0-1
Shamrocks had an easier than expected victory over Ballygarvans second team last evening at Carrigaline to progress to a meeting with either Carrigaline or Valley Rovers in the next round. Shamrocks approached this game in the right frame of mind and took nothing for granted against a Ballygarvan team who had ran Kinsale close in the previous round. Rob Lannon was causing all sorts of problems at full forward and he was directly and indirectly responsible for the first 5 Shamrocks point, either slapping over a few himself, setting them up or getting fouled in possession. After it being tied 0-1 apiece early on, Shamrocks raced away to lead 0-7 to 0-1 and then Colin O’Sullivan scored 1-2 from play in 5 minutes. The forwards were getting on the scoreboard from all over along with Stephen O’Neill at midfield. Half time it was 1-13 to 0-1 and the game was well and truly over as a contest. The second half meandered to its inevitable conclusion with it serving as no more than shooting practice for Shamrocks. Team: C.O’Neill, D.Hayes, S.Collins, S.Andrews, D.Roche, B.Sweeney, O.Boland, C.O’Neill, S.O’Reilly, T.O’Sullivan, C.Fitzpatrick, M.Prout, D.Bourke, R.Lannon, C.O’Sullivan.

 

Underage Notes – 29/5

Ringaskiddy NS 0-7, Crosshaven NS 0-1
RingaskiddyNS 0-07CrosshavenNS 0-01. Ring played into a strong breeze in the opening half and were leading at half time 0-03 to 0-01. Tony O Mahony played some excellent and determined hurling. He led to lads on by example by scoring 2 great long distance frees. Daniel Breen scored the other point. A very effective half time talk was held and the lads started the second period in fine style with Daniel Breen scoring a great point. Tony O? Mahony added 2 more points and the ever dependable Cathal Kidney scored another. Special mention must go to the 3 girls who played excellent throughout the campaign. Nikki Twomey, Michelle Murphy & Chloe McCullough. Roy Twomey in goal made 2 good saves and was protected well by David Barton, David Drinan in midfield done some trogan work and both Jack Breen & Damien Kelleher in the forward line were also impressive. The 2 subs, Michael Howard & Josh Hanlon did their bit for the team when they came on in the 2nd half. Special praise must go to John Herlihy who trained this team and who has showed his support for this team for the last 6 years. His knowledge and experience is well known both at school & club level.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

 

Week ended – 4th June 2006

 

Under 10 Hurling – 4/6

The under 10 hurlers have played 3 matches in the last week, resulting in 3 straight victories against Vally Rovers, Kinsale and Crosshaven. Firstly the Rovers on Wednesday night away in Brinny and what a great victory for the lads over a strong Rovers team. Shamrocks won 4-2 to 1-4 in a game that is played over four quarters. Shamrocks had goal scorers in Jack Breen, Jack Howard, Daniel O’Reilly and David Andrews. It was a draw at half time but Shamrocks pulled away in the last quarter. Next up it was Kinsale at home and Shamrocks won 4-8 to 1-0. Man of the match was undoubtly Aonghus Boland who scored 2-4 from play. Killian Murphy (No 7’s son, not the actor) also chipped in with a goal as did David Andrews. Micheal Howard in goal, Daniel O’Reilly and Andrew O’Grady played well also for Shamrocks. And the good ship Shamrocks sailed merrily along against fellow harboursiders Crosshaven on Sunday morning by winning 4-5 to 2-1. Daniel O’Reilly had 2 goals, Andrew O’Grady had another and young David Howard, who is only 6, became surely the youngest Shamrocks scorer ever when he came off the bench to score another goal. The next game is against Carrigaline on Thursday night at home. This will be a massive test for the young lads as Carrig will have a very strong pick. A feature of the 3 matches played so far is the tremendous numbers togging out. Also thanks to an Bainisteoir Dick Andrews and his assistants Ian Breen and Stephen O’Reilly for their tirless work with the young guns. Also thanks to all the parents who help out in any way and travel to support the team. Thanks to Socket who does a pile of organising for the team behind the scenes like setting up the pitch and so on. The lads (and one lassie) will be playing Tracton, Ballygarvan and Ballinhassig over the next few weeks.

 

Under 12 Hurling – 5/6

We played 2 games over the bank holiday weekend. First up was Kinsale last Friday evening in Shanbally. We had a much depleted team out for this match. Indeed only for the U-10s who had just played Kinsale, we would not have been able to field a team. Against a strong & sporting Kinsale team the lads put up a great first half performance but tired obviously in the second half. They got some lovely scores from play but at the end 2 games in just over an hour in brilliant sunshine took its toll for this very young team.
On Monday we played Tracton in Shanbally again in brilliant sunshine. This proved to be a cracker with Tracton winning in the end by a mere point 2-04 to 2-03. Some excellent hurling was played on both sides and if the lads can produce a performance like this again then the hard work by Jim Ronayne, Ian Breen, Jim Raleigh, Steven O’Reilly & Pat Q will reap its rewards in the near future.
Panel used. M. Howard, J. Raleigh, G. Hartnett, J. Howard, D. Raleigh, M. Garvey, R. Twomey, T. O’ Mahony, A. Boland, C. Walters, D. O? Reilly, J. Breen, C. Cusack, C. O’ Mahony, J. Hanlon. S. Moore.

 

Shamrocks Golf Classic 2006 – 2/6

The club held its biennial golf classic in Monkstown Golf Club in glorious sunshine last Friday and it proved to be a very successful event. There was a full quota of teams on the day with victory going to Neallie O’Mahonys team of himself, Mark Hickey and Ian “Cruncher” Cummins. Well done to them and to the organisers of the event who put in many hours on the nineteenth hole – Alan Geary, Neallie O’Mahony, Darragh Collins and John Twomey. Also thanks to everyone who took part and to our three main sponsors – Ford, Right Price Tiles and Toyota Avensis.

 

SE Junior A Hurling League – 1/6

Shamrocks 2-18, Kinsale 2-7
This was played on a very sunny evening in Shanbally (almost too sunny) and it resulted in a comprehensive win for the home team. To be fair to Kinsale, they were very short on the night and not too much could be read into the scoreline regarding possible meetings in the championship later on. Shamrocks beat what was put in front of them and in the process racked up a big score for the second game in a row. They led by a whopping 0-14 to 0-1 at the break with many fine scores from Senan Collins, who was on 65 duty, Todds with a mighty one from play, Stevie O’Neill, Rob Lannon, Gary Ronayne (whom scored 3 points frokm play from corner forward in the 2nd half), Dave Bourke, Chris O’Neill and Ciaran Fitzpatrick who scored 2 beauties from play and played his best match in a Shamrocks jersey in a while. The first half served as shooting practice in reality. Kinsale obviously got a drubbing at half time as they were a transformed team in the second half without even remotely threathening to mount a serious comeback. They got a few goals to put respectibility on the scoreboard while at the other end Stevie O’Neill scored 2 Shamrocks goals (rather luckily to be fair Stevie!). The next game is Junior B Football on Tuesday night followed by Ballinhassig on Wednesday night in a game that doubles up as a City and South East hurling league game.

 

Junior B Hurling League – 29/5

Belgooly 5-17, Shamrocks 4-8
The fellas who didnt play in the A championship got a run out in the B league at sunny Belgooly on Tuesday night. Well some of them because Shamrocks struggled to put a team together on this occasion because some other fellas just didnt bother turning up. The boys that did turn up did reasonably well in the face of adversity. The thirteen aside game makes the game very open with planty of goal opportunities and scores in the offing. Stephen O’Neill and Pat O’Sullivan, playing against all his budies, got the two Shamrocks goals in the first half, 2-10 to 2-2 to Belgooly at half time. The second half was very open with plenty of scores, O’Neill again and Gary Ronayne adding to some points from Barry Mulqueen to see out the Shamrocks scores. But Belgooly had the game well sown up at the other end.

 

Junior B Football League – 6/6

Shamrocks 2-8, Tracton 1-6
Shamrocks Junior B team grabbed their first win of the season with an exciting win over Tracton at sunny Shanbally. It was hot out there and there were many tired players trooping off the field at the end. Shamrocks were the first to settle with scores from Patrick Andrews, Rob Lannon and Colin Brady in reply to Tractons sole point at the other end. Shamrocks were dominating possession to a large degree but their shooting and short passing let them down at times (rustiness). They still led at half time 0-4 to 0-1 with the back as a unit playing extremely well. They got the boost of an early Dander goal playing up the hill after nice work between Andrews and sub Rob McCarthy. In fact, each and every sub brought on by the inspired Shamrocks think-tank on the line made a vital contribution. McCarthy was involved in a few other scores while the Jockey Aaron Sweeney finished a centre from the captain supreme, Jamie Sweeney (team captain that is) to the net. And Tiger Cummins, aka Cruncher scored two outrageous points from play, the man was standing behind the end line and still they sailed over. And then Sweeney took a quick free on the 21 to none other than Rochie, of the Darren variety. He nearly incurred a speeding fine and a nose bleed all at once; he was so far up the field. Anyway, he closed his eyes, pulled the trigger and over she sailed. We just knew it was going to be our night. The half back line of Sean Bourke, Roche and Karl Griffin were outstanding in particular. Team: C.O’Sullivan, K.Hegarty, D.Roche, D.O’Neill, S.Bourke, K.Griffin, D.Roche, B.Hickey, C.Brady, P.Andrews, R.Lannon, D.Stuart, J.Sweeney, E.O’Rahilly, K.Hennerty. Subs used – R.McCarthy, D.Bourke, I.Cummins, A.Sweeney.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

 

Week ending – 19th June

 

Under 12 Hurling

Shamrocks 1-5, Douglas 2-3
The lads went down to a strong Douglas side at Shanbally on Monday night. Cal O?Mahony, James Raleigh, Gary Hartnett, Daniel O’Reilly and Josh Hanlon played well. Team: Conor Walters, Cal O’Mahony, James Raleigh, Daniel Galvin, Gary Hartnett, David Raleigh, Josh Hanlon, Tony O’Mahony, Roy Twomey, Aonghus Boland, Daniel O’Reilly, Matthew Garvey, Daniel Hughes, Stephen Moore, Eoin Sheehan. They later played Ballygarvan on Monday June 25th and were well beaten.

 

Carrigdhoun Grade B Hurling Blitz

Ringaskiddy won this competition played at Shanbally on Thursday June 8th. RingaskiddyNSwon all their group games which were against Ballinadee, Gaelscoil Charraig Ui Leighin, MinaneBridgeand Castlelack. The final against Guarranes was a close run affair with scores level at 1-0 each at half time. However, second half goals from Tony O’Mahony, Daniel Breen and Damien Kelleher ensured a deserved victory to make up for last years disappointment. Ringaskiddy have now captured hurling trophies and Sciath na Scol (Cork) and Sciath na Scol (Carrigdhoun) both indoor and outdoor. Team: David Barton (Capt), R.Twomey, David Drinan, Cathal Kidney, T.O’Mahony, Damien Kelleher, D.Breen, J.Breen, Michael Howard, Josh Hanlon and Daniel Galvin.

 

Carrigdhoun Camogie Blitz

Ringaskiddy had a victory over Guarranes in their first game with goals from Nicky Twomey, Shannon O’Gorman and Michelle Murphy. They were subsequently beaten by KnockvilleNS. Team: Shannon Twomey, Katie McCarthy, Shannon O?Gorman, Michelle Murphy, Cleo Kelleher, Nicky Twomey, Fia Coughlan, Aisling Gibson, Sarah Jones, Sophie Galvin. Special thanks to John Herlihy NT on his efforts with the teams this year.

 

Junior Update

The Junior A hurlers have played three games in this period and three losses were the outcome. They were beaten 2-8 to 1-6 by Glen Rovers on Friday 9th June and by a single point by Brian Dillons, both in the City League. But it was the loss to Ballinhassigs Junior team that caused the most distress. Plenty of hard talking and thinking was done after the 5-16 to 0-6 humiliation a few weeks back. The junior B hurlers lost league games to Crosshaven and Ballymartle (3-11 to 1-13) in the meantime, while the Junior B footballers were well beaten by Courcey Rovers on Tuesday June 16th in Ballinspittle.

 

Junior B Hurling Championship – 30/6

Ballinhassig 0-11, Shamrocks 1-4
Shamrocks didnt have much hope entering this game on Friday night last but turned in a commendable performance on the night. Again short some regulars, they were forced to employ players in unusual positions. Ballinhassig had a young team out and had more hurling than Shamrocks but the men in green just hung in there through heart and determination and with a bit more accuracy and luck in front of goal could have at least snatched a draw. Shamrocks had plenty of early possession but couldn?t convert it to scores and rued later on some decent scoring opportunities. All they had to show for their efforts was a Stephie O’Neill pointed free. Ballinhassig led 0-4 to 0-1 at half time. It was clear that Shamrocks needed a goal to get anywhere near winning this game but it came far too late via Peter Prout, who had been moved to full forward at this stage. O’Neill again was the sole Shamrocks point scorer in this half, all from frees. Shamrocks did finish strongly with a succession of fruitless 65’s which were dropped in around the house to no avail. Bernard Hickey, Keith Roche, Colin Brady and Barry Mulqueen can be happy with their contributions. Team : D.O’Neill, B.Hickey, P.Prout, K.Roche, C.Ronayne, B.Mulqueen, C.Brady, S.O’Neill, G.Ronayne, T.Barrett, J.Shanahan, G. Ronayne, R.McCarthy, K.O’Mahony, J.Sweeney. Subs used – S.Bourke, P.Andrews.

 

Under 12 Hurling League – 26/6

Ballygarvan beat Shamrocks well in this playoff game last week. More to follow on the game itself later. Circumstances dictate that Shamrocks play Ballygarvan next week to determine who (the winners) goes into the County Grade C Championship.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

 

Weekend Ended – 2nd July 2006

 

Under 10 Hurling Update

The lads have played 4 games in this period recording 3 wins. The only loss came against Carrigaline some weeks back, the final score being 3-3 to 1-1. David Raleigh got the Shamrocks goal and Gary Hartnett, Patrick Murphy and Conor Walters were outstanding. The lads were back to winning ways by beating Tracton the following week by 6-6 to 3-4. Jack Breen and Michael Howard were in scoring form. There were great displays from Brendan Crowley, Koby O’Mahony, Christopher Hayes, David Andrews, Aonghus Boland, Daniel O’Reilly and David Raleigh. Next up were Ballygarvan in Shanbally. Shamrocks got off to a great start with two early goals from Darragh Scriven. Patrick Murphy and Daniel O’Reilly hit a lot of ball. David Raleigh at centre back kept all the backs on song. Daniel hit over a few frees to finish the half. There was more of the same in the second half with goals from Conor Walters. Again as is the norm, all players got a game in which the final score was Shamrocks 5-4, Ballygarvan 1-1. The last game in the league was away to Ballinhassig on Friday night (23rd June). With players now going on holidays, we barely had a team. But the lads on show played their best hurling of the year. Coby at full-back was a rock, Nathan Hayes showed great heart, Darragh Scriven and Gary Hartnett got 2 goals each. Mark Hitchmough played the full game with Brendan Crowley, Chris Hayes, Joseph O’Keeffe, Andrew O’Grady and Eoin Horgan doing well also. Dave Andrews got a fortunate late goal to leave the final scoreline Shamrocks 5-2, Ballinhassig 1-2.

 

Under 10 Football – 12/6

Shamrocks had a good win over Crosshaven on Monday night.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  

 

Week ended – 9th July 2006

 

City/South Minor B Hurling League – 3/7

Shamrocks 1-8, Delaneys 4-11
Shamrocks lost thier first game in the City/Carrigdhoun hurling league in a game played in Shanbally last Monday night. Shamrocks only had the bare 13 players due to holidays and what have you and played well in patches. However they werent able to sustain their pressure. They were behind at half time by 1-5 to 0-3. Mickey O’Neill got the Shamrocks goal while other players to get on the scoresheet were Gary Ronayne, Jason Browne and Rob Hourihane.

 

Under 21 B Hurling Championship – 4/7

Kinsale 2-12, Shamrocks 1-13
I said earlier above that Shamrocks would be looking to win this tournament this year as they step down a grade after playing A for the last few years. Well, this result can only be described as an unmitigated disaster then. Lets get to the point here. This was not the greatest Kinsale team ever and it just puts the Shamrocks performance and approach into perspective. To be fair, Shamrocks players are thin on the ground at this level and with four starters missing last night through J1 visas and holidays and infighting it didnt help at all. Too many players were being carried on this 13 a side team. However, it still cant mask the disappointement that this defeat brings. Shamrocks just about led throughout the match but couldnt get away from Kinsale. The Shamrocks backs were well on top but it was the age old problem of the forwards being unable to score that was to be their undoing. And eventhough Kinsale didnt score from play in the second half, absolutely needless fouls out the field were punished by the Kinsale freetaker and they scored the last five points to win. As far as I know, there is no backdoor. Team: Mickey O’Neill, S.Andrews, D.Hayes, Fergus O’Neill, S.O’Reilly, S.Bourke, Chris O’Neill, B.Mulqueen, G.Ronayne, J.Shanahan, R.Murphy, J.Browne, Cian O’Neill.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

 

Week ended – 16th July 2006

 

Well done Mickey

We all here at shamrocksgaa.com wish to congratulate our own Micheal Prout on his brilliant display at corner/wing back for Corkon Sunday last in Corks thrilling win over Kerry in the replay of the Munsterfootball final. Mickey was simply outstanding and was Corks best defender on the very hot day. Another medal for the collection. Well done Cork!!

 

Junior B Hurling League – 15/7

Valley Rovers 1-8, Shamrocks 1-8
Shamrocks made the trip to Brinny a mildly successful one as they staged a late comeback to snatch a draw against Rovers on a sweltering Saturday night. Shamrocks were led throughout the entire game until a late Pat O’Sullivan goal and a monster Barry Mulqueen free from way out the field tied up the scores for the first and last time. Fielding an experimental side, Shamrocks were slow to settle, finding themselves 0-4 to no score down after 15 minutes. But the best line on the field, the half back line of Snotser, Barry Mulqueen and converted goalie Patrick Andrews started to get on top and started delivering plenty ball to the forwards. Deccy O’Neill (who later swopped with Dave O’Neill in goal) got a few close in frees and using all his “33” years on this earth a ‘lob’ over the keeper which unfortunately for him lobbed over the crossbar as well! Kieran Hennerty, Mulqueen, Sean Kelly and Snotser were the other scorers along with Dave O’Neill who found himself stationed in the forwards in the second half. Overall, a worthy draw as Shamrocks got the better of Rovers at the end of each half. PS Darcy made his “tri-annual” appearance for the club and didnt let the side down, throwing his body and face about the place!
Team: D.O?Neill, B.Hickey, P.Prout, K.Hegarty, D.Sheehan, B.Mulqueen, P.Andrews, C.Ronayne, S.Kelly, K.Hennerty, P.O’Sullivan, T.Barrett, Darcy, K.O’Mahony, D.O’Neill.

 

Under 16 Hurling League – 12/7

Shamrocks 2-8, Ballygarvamn 5-12
The main objective of the under 16 this year is to fulfil their 6 fixtures and to try and bring the players on a bit. They played Ballygarvan in their first game of the year at Shanbally last Wednesday night. and with interrupted preparation and players missing on holidays they turned in a decent performance. To be fair Ballygarvan were down a few as well and there is no doubt they fully deserved their comfortable victory but after a first half best forgotten from the home side, they were “got after” at half time and in fairness to the boys they played with a lot more spirit and pride in the second half. Ballygarvan were all over rusty Shamrocks in the first half and playing down the hill they led 4-5 to Mickey O’Neill’s point at half time. Some re-gigging at half time and Shamrocks second half display was full of promise. With a bit more training they could improve further. Mickey O’Neill went in goal and proceeded to play the proverbial blinder, saving at least 10 goals easily. The backs tightened up and Alan McCarthy and in particular Donie Murphy played some great stuff. Stephen Hurley and Jonathan Tuohy also benefited from new positions and Aaron Hickey got on the score sheet. Brian Cusack and Darragh O’Sullivan finished strong.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

 

Week ended – 22nd July 2006

 

Under 12 C Hurling Playoff

Shamrocks 2-4, Ballygarvan 1-5
Shamrocks and Ballygarvan played off to decide who?d go forward to play in the C County championship, beginning this Wednesday. This was an unexpected but deserved win for Shamrocks as Ballygarvan had already beaten Shamrocks well earlier on in the league. Roy Twomeys early goal settled Shamrocks and they were to be the dominant force in the first half; Ballygarvan took a while to get going. The Shamrocks keeper and full back line were well on top. Shamrocks led at half time by 1-1 to 0-3. The second half was much the same with Ballygarvan finding it hard to break down the Shamrocks rear guard. Roy Twomey got another goal and he, along with Tony O’Mahony and Aonghus Boland worked their socks off around the middle of the field. Ballygarvan got a late goal. Shamrocks qualify for the county, to be played at home against Ballinora this Wednesday (19th), please come out and support them. Team: Michael Howard, James Raleigh, Cal O’Mahony, Jack Howard, David Raleigh, Gary Hartnett, Roy Twomey (2-1), Tony O’Mahony (0-2), Aonghus Boland (0-1), Josh Hanlon, Michelle Murphy, Jack Breen, Stephen Moore, Eoin Sheehan, David Hayes. Our thanks to the mentors and helpers Ian Breen, Jim Raleigh, John Jordan ,Stephan O’Reilly, and the absent on this occasion Jim Ronayne and Pat Q.

 

Junior B Football League – 18/7

Shamrocks 2-7, Belgooly 1-8
Shamrocks had a come from behind victory against Belgooly who put up a great challenge on Tuesday on another swelteringly hot night. Shamrocks football certainly wasnt hot in the first half – in fact it was appauling and Belgooly only led by 1-6 to 0-3 after dominating the first 2o minutes completely. But Shamrocks showed signs of recovery coming up to half time with 2 quick points from Stephen Jordan (on free taking duty for the night) and Dave Bourke. Shamrocks were a transormed team in the second half and Bernard Hickey’s switch to corner forward worked within 1 minute of the restart after he finished a good move over the bar. Furter points from Jordan and Shamrocks were right back in the game. Dave Bourke finished a sweeping move to the back of the Belgooly net and as the game opened up considerably in the heat (also 13 a side), Shamrocks were on top and pressing. Dave O’Neill latched onto a goalkeeping mistake to bury the ball in the net to put Shamrocks a point up for the first time in the match with 10 minutes left. Belgooly tried hard to recover and did with 5 minutes left with a point of their own. But wing forward Patrick Andrews started and finished his own move with only a minute left to send the ball over the bar for the winner and try as Belgooly did in the remaining time, they couldnt get the equalising score to deny this Shamrocks team the victory. Team: R.O’Sullivan, B.Hickey (0-1), D.Roche, K.O’Mahony, D.Sheehan, S.Bourke, S.Kelly, S.Jordan (0-4), D.Bourke (1-1), R.Lannon, P.Andrews (0-1), J.Sweeney, K.Hennerty. Subs used – K.Hegarty, D.O’Neill (1-0), R.McCarthy, I.Cummins, A. “Jockey” Sweeney.

 

City Junior A Hurling League – 20/7

Passage 2-13, Shamrocks 0-8
Passage won this City junior hurling game quite comfortably in Passage on Thursday night. Only 15 players turned up for Shamrocks at the start (another after 15 minutes) so with about 4 or 5 starting players carrying injuries your staring into the barrell of a gun against an “up for it” and fitter and fresher Passage and a hard surface. Shamrocks played with the aid of a strong breeze down the hill in the first half and the damage was done by half time. Passage led by 1-5 to 0-6, 5 of the Passage points coming from frees, each and every one conceded when a Shamrocks player chopped down on an opponent. The second half was a bit of a disaster from a Shamrocks point of view – Passage played well and took some great scores while Shamrocks had to bring off fellas, bring them back on etc through a succession of injuries and there was no pattern/rhythm to their play. It was decided afterwards in the dressing room, between the gigs and the reels, to take a 2 week break from everything to recharge the batteries as the championship matches wont be played for many weeks yet. We’ll keep you posted. Team: D.O’Neill, B.Hickey, P.Prout, S.Andrews, B.Mulqueen, B.Sweeney, D.Roche, C.O’Neill, S.O’Reilly, C.Ronayne, S.O’Neill, J.Shanahan, P.Andrews, R.Lannon, C.O’Sullivan. Sub used – S.Bourke.

 

Under 16 Hurling League – 17/7

Shamrocks were well beaten by Kinsale in their second match in this competition. Not for the first time this season, Shamrocks were all at sea in the first half and after conceding some early goals the heads dropped and it was all Kinsale until half time, slotting over score after score. However, after being reminded that you just dont give up like that in sport, the Shamrocks lads turned in a great second half performance and matched Kinsale, without ever threathening to get anywhere near level. Joey Brady was excellent as was Stephen Downey in the second half, along with Philip Brady and Jonathan Tuohy.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

 

Week ended – 5th August 2006

 

Minor B Football Championship – 27/7

Shamrocks were well beaten by Carrigaline B in the Championship last Thursday night. Hopes were high of a win at this stage as Shamrocks had already beaten Carrigaline in the league but as preparations weren’t great through holidays and what not, Carrigaline deservedly went on to the next stage. The half time score was 1-3 to 0-1 for Shamrocks and Shamrocks ran out of steam in the second half, conceding some late goals. The best Shamrocks players on the night were all in defence – Jason Browne at corner back, Alan McCarthy at half back and Ivan Murphy at full back. However, Cormac Horgan at centre back gave an exhibition and it was unfortunate for him that he was on the losing side- in this writers opinion, and this is taking nothing away from the Carrigaline players, he was by far the outstanding player on the field. The club would like to thank Joseph Shanahan, Oliver McCann, Todds Sweeney and Tadhg Forde who took over the Minors at the start of the year when nobody else wanted it and thought we wouldn’t get a team out. The amount of phone calls made to certain players who unfortunately didn’t respond was staggering.

 

County Board Draw winners and others

Shamrocks had some recent winners in thecountyBoardDraw, which will be up for renewal by the way in October. Mr Denis “Bengy” O’Brien of Ringaskiddy and Blackrock should certainly do the Lotto soon as he won twice in the last couple of months; he won a weekend for two and €150 in separate draws. Other winners include Elizabeth Tuohy, Jimmy O’Neill, Pat Tuohy and John Dineen. Well done to all our winners and best of luck to everybody in the remaining draws. Also, thanks to our draw co-coordinator Lorcan for all the time and effort you put in. I don’t think we realize the effort that goes on behind the scenes. And while we’re on the Ahernes, Lorcans father Thomas was spotted adding some freshness to the lower gate and wall recently. Sun tanning and painting at the same time is a new phenomenon inIrelandin the last few year and Thomas was leading the way during the recent hot spell. Seriously, nobody asked him to do anything and yet he went up there and painted away by himself. Fair play to you sir. And finally, the best of luck to Mickey and the rest of theCorkfootballers on Saturday at Croker in the Quarter Final of the football championship verses Donegal. The club is running a bus to CrokeParkon Sunday for the hurling Semi final against Waterford. Let me put things this way – let’s hope that Cork supporters are going to have to dig deeper into their pockets for the rest of the summer. If either Cork team reach an All-Ireland final, the GAA are rumoured to be playing the first half on the Saturday and the second half on the Sunday.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  

 

Week ended – 12th August 2006

 

U16 C Hurling Championship Final – 9/8

Ballygarvan 7-10, Shamrocks 3-4
Ballygarvan qualified for the C County championship by virtue of this comfortable victory over a gallant Shamrocks team at Belgooly on Wednesday evening. The scoreline doesnt tell the full story of the game. True, Ballygarvan were fully deserving winners and had by far the better hurlers on view but Shamrocks kept plugging away in the face of adversity and produced some admirable performances. Despite an even enough opening, Shamrocks couldnt hold onto the Ballygarvan corner forward and once he got inside the cover after 10 minutes to hammer home a goal the game was all over because he waltzed through 4 more times before half time, not to mention a few points as well to finish the game as a contest. Shamrocks were deflated but they showed courage in the second half and after Ballygarvan relaxed a bit, they came thundering back at them and Philip Brady scored 3 goals and a point in 5 minutes to put a bit of respectability on the scoreboard. However, Shamrocks had nothing like the scorepower that Ballygaravn had up front. Daniel Browne at corner back, playing his first hurling of the year was outstanding and showed with a bit of bottle and determination you can achieve anything. The two Bradys were always to the fore and Alan McCarthy and Donie Murphy (who controlled the Ballygarvan dangerman after half time) tried hard while Brian Cusack had his moments. One thing that was noted was the lack of Shamrocks support at the game. There were 5 Shamrocks supporters at the game, Ballygarvan had way more and eclipised the Shamrocks numbers numbers-wise and vocally. We must be the worst supported club in the division. Team: M.O’Neill, D.Browne, J.Brady, D.Murphy, A.McCarthy, J.Tuohy, T.Pierce, P.Brady, C.Murphy, S.Downey, B.Cusack, S.Healy, C.Caffery.

 

Super Value Promotion

The club is asking for your support in helping the underage teams get a set of jerseys by collecting tokens in Barry Collins’ in Carrigaline. If you spend ?10 worth in Barry Collins, you are entitled to a token. When you have finished your shopping, just present your receipt at customer services in the store and you’ll pick up your tokens. Just pass them on to club officials. You might even get your friends to do the same, ie pass on the word. We’re calling on all members of the club and parents to help us out on this one as we are slightly behind target. The closing date is August 21st. Even old receipts will do, just present them.

 

Cork County Board Training

The Cork County Board training scheme reaches Shamrocks for the next month. This will be specialised hurling coaching for under 11’s and under 13’s by specialised coaches, among them Darragh McSweeney who played with Cork in this years league and is Corks centre back on the Intermediate team who are in the All-Ireland final. The other coach is last weekends hero Cathal Naughton! Its free and well worth a visit and its open to all members of Shamrocks at that age group. It started Thursday August 3rd at 9.45am until 11.30am and will run every Thursday morning thereafter.

 

Miscellanous

The club would like to thank Teresa Clifford who has presented a load of training gear etc to the underage. We very much appreciate the offer Teresa and mile buíochas. Well to Mickey and the rest of the Cork footballers on Saturday at Croker in the Quarter Final of the football championship where they beat Donegal by a point to set up a meeting with Kerry in the Semi final of the All-Ireland. It was a close run thing but we won and it just adds to the expense we’re dishing out followingCorkteams this year, but I for one aint complaining. The club ran a bus to Croke Parkon Sunday for the hurling Semi final against Waterfordand it was a very successful trip. Everyone was well behaved and had a great time and of course Cork won to send all Rebel supporters home happy.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

 

Week ended – 19th August 2006

 

Junior Hurling Update – 15/8

Shamrocks 1-14, Rathpeacon 1-6
Shamrocks played their first match in about 4 weeks at dark Shanbally on Tuesday night and recorded a moral boosting victory over a tough Rathpeacon team. Colin O’Sullivan lashed home a goal from the opening attack after being set up by Joseph Shanahana, who ran at and tormented the Rathpeacon defence all night and eventally finished with a personal tally of 0-6, 0-5 from play and all brilliantly exectuted. It was obvious from an early stage that Shamrocks were going to win the game handy enough as they prepare for an upcoming championship fixture. They tagged on a few points, mainly through Shanahan to lead by 1-7 to 0-4 at half time. Rathpeacon scrambled home an early goal to make the second half more competitive and as the light almost completely faded, Shamrocks closed out the game with scores from O’Sullivan, Shanahan and Barry Mulqueen. Shamrocks completed their preperation for the Kinsale game on Sunday by beatingDouglas at Shanbally on Monday night (21/8) by 0-13 to 1-8.douglas are always strong at junior level and this was a good result for Shamrocks, after a strong second half showing. Mickey Prout (after playing inCrokePark the day before) was the star this time, hitting 0-6, 0-4 from play and generally working very hard throughout. Shamrocks were behind at half time by 1-6 to 0-6, Gary Ronayne and Brian Sweeney the other Shamrocks scorers. The second half produced much better fare, especially from Shamrocks who tightened up considerably in defence and Prout had a major influence on the game. Terence O’Sullivan also scored an inspirational point mid way through the half to lift the team.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  

 

Week ended – 26th August 2006

 

Under 14 Football – 25/8

Tracton 5-7, Shamrocks 7-3
This was played in ideal conditions in Minane. Both sides played some great football and it was played in a great manner. At h/t Shamrocks led by 2 pts. But Tracton came storming back into the match and were 5 points up with 10 mins. to go. Some excellent forward play resulted in Shamrocks scoring 2-1 in the last few minutes to leave just 2 points between the sides in favour of Shamrocks at full time.
Best for Shamrocks were D. Breen. C. Kidney, T, O’ Mahony (1-01) C, Caffrey (0-01), Roy Twomey (3-00) & sub Darragh O’ Sullivan (2-00)
Team, J.Wilson, D, Barton, J.Tuohy, D, Breen, C.Kidney, S.Healy, J.Brady, D.Sheehan, T.O’Mahoney, C.Caffrey, J.Raleigh, R.Twomey, J.O’Driscoll. Subs, S.Horgan, D.O’Sullivan, D.Kelleher, & A.Dunne.

 

Under 10 Football – 25/8

This resulted in a very one sided game with Shamrocks winning comfortably. A lot of the lads are now after the holidays and are looking forward to going to school during the week. We have 3 more games to play in this section so a bit more training will be done to get everybody back into the full swing of things again. A lot of this team will be the backbone for the upcoming U-11 leagues which will be starting soon.

 

Under 12 Hurling – 26/8

Some extra notes, Saturday 26th August U12 hurling Cecil Gash memorial in Minane. We beat a very sportingDouglasteam in the semi-final 1-05 to 0-02. There were some great performances especially from the younger players Jack Howard, Aonghus Boland, Daniel O’Reilly & David Raleigh. The final against a very strong Tracton team proved to be too difficult a task for an under strength Shamrocks team. We are deeply thankful to our friends in Minane for the wonderful hospitality that they gave us. The medals were presented by Corks great no.5 John Gardiner who took time out to make the children’s day. He signed autographs & posed for photos for all those involved.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   

 

Week ended – 2nd September 2006

 

Junior Hurling Championship – 27/8

Shamrocks 0-14, Kinsale 0-14
The repeat of the 205 final ended all square at Minane Bridge on Sunday afternoon last and both sides will be happy that they are both still in the competition, especially Shamrocks who played second fiddle to Kinsale for long periods of the game. Shamrocks played against the breeze in the first half and started brighly enough, especially Joe Shanahan who was causing all sorts of problems from centre forward when he had ball in hand. He had the opening Shamrocks scores from play (along with Terence O’Sullivan) and finished with 0-5 from play in total. Kinsale were also troubling the scoreboard operator at the other end and the sides were level after 15 minutes, 0-4 each. It was from here to half time that Kinsale built up a 4 point lead that very nearly won them the game in the end. They started to get on top around the middle and moved 0-11 to 0-7 ahead coming up to half time (Colin O’Sullivan and Mickey Prout from frees the Shamrocks scorers), however Shamrocks replied with 2 vital points before half time to leave just 2 points between the teams at the break, 0-11 to 0-9. It took Shamrocks a long time to get motoring in the second half (playing with the wind), indeed Kinsale had moved 0-13 to 0-10 ahead entering the final quarter. However, the introduction of sub Stephen O’Neill to the wing (he scored 0-2 from play) and improved play from Peter Prout, his brother Mickey when moved to wing back, the always consistant Brian Sweeney at center back and Barry Mulqueen who had a great last 15 minutes brought Shamrocks right back into the game and indeed they went ahead 0-14 to 0-13 entering injury time (after Stevie Neill put over a great strike off his left). Kinsale had one last attack and could even had snatched victory as their player bore down on goal but his shot went just over the bar to leave it a deserved draw at the end. Shamrocks team: D.O’Neill, D.Roche, P.Prout, S.Andrews, B.Mulqueen, B.Sweeney, C.Brady, C.O’Neil, S.O’Reilly, M.Prout, J.Shanahan, G.Ronayne, D.Bourke, T.O’Sullivan, C.O’Sullivan. Subs introduced – S.O’Neill, E.Kiely, C.Ronayne.

 

Under 16 Football – 30/8

Courcey Rovers 4-8, Shamrocks 1-6
This was a playoff to decide who went into the B county and Courceys ability to score goals was the obvious difference. Shamrocks actually played well over the hour but the concession of goals at vital times wa to prove the difference. Their second half performance once again was in total contrast to the first half performance. Shamrocks best players on the night were Alan McCarthy, Mickey O’Neill and Philip Brady who tried hard all through. Final score 5-8 to 1-6 in favour of the home team.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                               

 

Week ended – 9th September 2006

 

Junior Championship Replay – 9/9

Shamrocks 2-8, Kinsale 1-6
Shamrocks overcame a dogged Kinsale at the second time of asking at Minane Bridge last Saturday afternoon last to book a semi final date against Ballymartle on Saturday/Sunday week. Shamrocks were the better team on this occasion and Kinsale can have few complaints as the simply didnt score enough on the day. The game was a dour struggle between two teams whose defences were on top throughout. Shamrocks had opened a 6 points to 2 lead after 20 mninutes through scores from colin O’Sullivan (frees), Seanan Collins and Joe Shanahan. But Kinsale fought back coming up to half time and had the deficit down to 2 points at the break, 0-6 to 0-4 for Shamrocks. The wind was hard to judge for both team, it seemend to be blowing across rather than up the field. Kinsale had a quick goal after the restart to move 1-4 to 0-7 level about 10 minutes into the second half. They’re tails were up at this stage but Shamrocks refused to panic. The half back line came more into it and after a few more minors, Dave Bourke crept in behind the cover to flick home an all important Shamrocks goal that really invigorated the team. Shamrocks dominated the rest of the game posession wise but found stout resistance in Kinsale who refused to ga away. However, their goose was finally cooked late on when sub Stevie O’Neills speculative shot eluded the Kinsale keeper and ended up in the back of the net. Game over. Over the hour, Senan Andrews was unbeatable at corner back, particuraly in the second half, as were the other two full backs Peter Prout and Darren Roche who got in some vital blocks at various times. Todds Sweeney played great stuff late on and Mickey Prout was his usual busy self. His midfielf partner Chris O’Neill was outstanding in the first half while Joe Shanahan as always caused the Kinsale defecne problems. Subs Stevie O’Neill, Stephen O’Reilly and Eoin Kiely played their part also. Team: D.O’Neill, D.Roche, P.Prout, S.Andrews, B.Mulqueen, B.Sweeney, C.Brady, M.Prout, C.O’Neill, T.O’Sullivan, J.Shanahan, G.Ronayne, C.O’Sullivan, S.Collins, D.Bourke. Subs used – S.O’Reilly, P.O’Sullivan, S.O’Neill, C.Ronayne, E.Kiely.

 

Under 12 Hurling County – 11/9

Shamrocks 3-9, Ballinora 4-9
This proved to be one of the best underage hurling matches the club has played in the last number of years. This was a game played with great pride, determination and skill. Up to the final whistle the game was still there for the taking. Shamrocks team consisted of 7 U-10 players. This is a fantastic achievement by the club. At half time Ballinora led by 3 points 2-06 to 2-03. We conceded 2 early second half goals but came storming back into the match and were only 2 pts down nearing the final whistle. We were so unlucky not to score with 2 65s cleared of the line. At the end the players can feel very proud of themselves because of the fantastic effort that they put in against a much bigger Ballinora team who are favourites for the county. Team. M.Howard, J.Raleigh, C.O’Mahony, G.Hartnett, D, Raleigh, J.Howard, R.Twomey, T.O’Mahony, A.Boland, D.O’Reilly, C.Walter, S.Moore, J.Breen. Subs J.Hanlon, M.Garvey, C.Cusack, D.Hayes, M.Murphy. E.Sheehan L.Fidgeon.

 

Under 10 Football – 11/9

This resulted in a great win for the Fe-10s verses Carrigaline 2. Great credit is due to the players who again turned up in great numbers. A lot of hard work is now really starting to tell with the results that are coming our way with this fantastic group of children.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    

 

Week ended – 17th September 2006

 

Under 14 Football – 17/9

Ballinhassig 1-10, Shamrocks 3-3
This game was played last Sunday morning before a large crowd in sunny Belgooly. It took Shamrocks a while to settle against a much bigger Ballinhassig side. Ballinhassig’s early 4 points were cancelled out by a great Darragh O?Sullivan goal. The sides were level when the same player got a point but this proved to be our last score in the first period. H/T score 1-08 to 1-02. Some very harsh words were spoken at the interval and this proved effective as the 2nd half turned out to be a cracker. A Joey Brady goal had the lead now to 4 pts and this was soon cut to the bare minimum with a Cathal Kidney goal. The last 6 minutes were played at a frantic pace but the equalising point that we thoroughly deserved was not coming. At the final whistle there was heartbreak all around for the Shamrock lads who done themselves, their families & the club proud.

 

Under 11 Hurling – 15/9

Shamrocks had a good win over a gallant Kinsale side at Shanbally on Friday evening last. Result 4-03 to 0-04. Mathew Garvey had an excellent game and finished our top scorer with 2 goals. The backbone of this team is spearheaded by our successful U-10 team. Many thanks to the parents and mentors for looking after this group of lads.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   

 

Week ended – 23rd September 2006

 

Under 16 Hurling League Semi Final – 19/9

Shamrocks 6-2, Kinale 5-15
Shamrocks closed out their season on Tuesday night after a gallant effort against an obviously better Kinsale team. They fought right till the end without ever threathening to win the game and must be commended for that. Kinsale led 3-11 to 1-2 at half time, Philip Brady with the Shamrocks goal. They played with the aid of the strong breeze in the second half and rattled in 5 goals, 3 of them coming from the stick of Philip Brady who was threathening all through. Tomás Pierce also got on the scoresheet with a major. Shamrocks had the deficit back to 3-11 to 3-2 at one stage in the second half but that was as close as they got as Kinsale held them at bay for the rest of the game. On the night Mickey O’Neill in goal, Donie Murphy and Joey Brady in defence, the two midfielders of Alan Mac and the aforementioned Philip Brady and Darragh O’Sullivan and Stephen Walters in attack were Shamrocks best players. We’d also like to thank the selectors for their efforts during the year in what turned out was a difficult age group (all their fixtures were fulfilled) – Diarmuid Murphy, Pat Mac, Patrick Andrews and Colin O’Sullivan. Team: M.O’Neill, E.Healy, S.Hurley, D.Browne, J.Brady, D.Murphy, B.Cusack, P.Brady, A.McCarthy, D.O’Sullivan, S.Downey, S.Walters, C.Murphy, T.Pierce.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   

 

Week ended – 30th September 2006

 

Under 11 Hurling – 24/9

This game was played in Crosshaven last Sunday morning. It resulted in a great victory for our lads. It was a very close game at the half time whistle with only 3 points separating 2 evenly matched sides. With Aonghus Boland, Michael Howard & Matt Garvey taking control around the middle of the pitch it enabled of forwards to pick off the scores in the second half. Dan O’Reilly & Conor Walters were the main scorers for Shamrocks. Their manager (of the year) Dick Andrews is enjoying a well earned holiday with his family and the result was the perfect start to their holidays.

 

Junior Hurling Championship Semi Final – 29/9

Shamrocks 0-9, Ballymartle 3-10
Shamrocks bowed out of the hurling championship that they won last year with a whimper at Minane. This was one of their worst displays of the year but the fact is this – it was coming from a long time. Times are bad indeed when a clubs second team can out hurl you and inflict an 8 point defeat on you. Only Senan Andrews, Brian Sweeney and Barry Mulqueen (first half) came out of the game with any credit. The Shamrocks numbers 1, 2 and 3 were the only players to stay in their positions for the match – umpteen switches were made from the first minute, disrupting the team and none of them worked. Team: D.O’Neill, D.Roche, P.Prout, S.Andrews, S.O’Reilly, B.Sweeney, B.Mulqueen, T.O’Sullivan, C.O’Neill, S.O’Neill, J.Shanahan, G.Ronayne, M.Prout, S.Collins, C.O’Sullivan. Subs used – D.Bourke, O.Boland.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                

 

Week ended – 8th October 2006

 

Junior Football Championship Quarter Final – 8/10

Belgooly 1-8, Shamrocks 1-3
Well, the football side of things came to its inevitable sorry conclusion at Ballygarvan last Sunday morning. Belgooly ran out comfortable winners to finally put Shamrocks out of their football misery. Twas a sorry bunch of players and officals that trooped off the field at the end and serious questions have to be asked all round as to how this was the worst prepared Shamrocks team that probably ever went onto the championship battlefield. The players cannot be blamed – they had no guidance and direction from day one and the air of negativity in the air before they went onto the field and during it was a disgrace. . Belgooly started brightly with 2 points after Shamrocks had wasted two good opportunities at the other end. They got on top around the middle and fed their forwards plenty of ball. Shamrocks actually looked threathening the few occasions they did attack but the final ball more often than not let them down. Brian Sweeney scored two points before half time for Shamrocks but at the other end Belgooly had posted another 1-2 to leave the half time score 1-4 to 0-2 and the inevitable defeat looked on. And so it was. Belgooly stretched 1-7 to 0-2 ahead strainght after with 3 quick points and despite Terence O’Sullivans cracker of a goal, the disaster of a football season had finally been put to bed. Team: B. Mulqueen, S. Andrews, P. Prout, M. Prout, O. Boland, C. O’Neill, C. Brady, B. Sweeney, K. Griffin, T. Barrett, J. Shanahan, T. O’Sullivan, S. O’Neill, D. O’Neill, S. Collins. Subs used – C. Ronayne, B. Hickey, K. Hegarty

 

Shamrocks Hurling and Football Academy

Our underage Academy started last Saturday (12 to 2) and the early signs were encouraging. Numbers were high and we’d like to thank all the parents and the junior players especially who came up and coached the stars of tomorrow, after having been beaten in the championship the night before. Fair play to Mickey Prout, Joe Shanahan, Terence O’Sullivan, Todds Sweeney, Stephen O’Reilly, Oisin Boland and Jason Browne. John Socket Twomey and Tony Sull were doing their best Gentlemans Quarters impression measuring the sizes for each child for when they get their gear. There are still places available for 7 to 12 year olds so just turn up at 12 on the day. Lets hope to increase the numbers each week.

 

U10 Hurling winners

We want to congratulate Dick Andrews and his support cast of mentors who trained the Under 11 hurlers to win the hurling league recently. They were beaten in only one game but topped the 8 team league. They certainly are our most sucessful club team this year and in fact are only 2 wins away from capturing the football league. Well done!

 

New Secretary

As you may know, our Rúnaí of the last few years Tadgh Forde has departed these shorelines for a year sabattical over in Oz. We all here at shamrocksgaa.com wish him bon voyage and hope that it wont be long before we see him up the Track again after a wonderful year travelling the world. Patrick Andrews is taking over as Secretary for the rest of the year (at least) and we wish him well at that.

 

Junior Hurling Championship Semi Final – 29/9

Ballymartle 3-9, Shamrocks 0-10
Shamrocks hurling season ended in disappointement inMinaneBridge last Friday night as Ballymartle finally put paid to Shamrocks up and down season by eliminating them from the championship after a fully deserved 8 point victory. This win was bourne out of pure hunger – Ballymartle wanted it more than Shamrocks and drove them back with the ferocity of their hurling and gave them a beating out the gate at the same time. Goals win games they say and one look at the scoreline suggests this statement is very true. Ballymartle struck for 3 second half goals at crucial times while Shamrocks didnt create one sniff of a chance all through, on a night where not much went right for the reigning champions, despite multiple switches in personnel. Colin O’Sullivan with some early monster frees and Mickey Prout put Shamrocks ahead 0-5 to no score after 10 minutes and a rout looked on. But that was the end of their good spell and amazingly they scored only 2 more points from play in the remainder of the match. Ballymartle slotted over 5 of their own and the match was on. The teams were level at half time. The switches werent working and despite Joe Shanahans early point, which should have lifted the team, Shamrocks were more or less outhurled for the rest of the game, despite some outstanding displays from Senan Andrews, Brian Sweeney and Barry Mulqueen (first half). Unfortunalely, the three mentioned players are all backs – Shamrocks just didnt have the penetration up front. Ballymartle got their first goal from a high ball that went all the way to the net; they moved 4 points up with their second and their superiority was underlined by their third late goal to seal a deserved 8 point win. This was the end of a disappointing season for Shamrocks hurlers.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

 

Week ended – 15th October 2006

 

U11 Hurling Final – 15/10

This game was played in very windy conditions in Kinsale on Sunday 15th against Crosshaven. A very large following for both sides witnessed Shamrocks best performance of the season. We started very well playing with the wind and got some vital early scores to settle the nerves. We were well on top in most positions against a very sporting Crosshaven side that can play a lot better than they did last Sunday. With the backs in control and our midfield players linking up very well with the forwards, it became obvious that the lads were well in control of the match. At the half time break Shamrocks had a good lead but were now playing into a very strong wind for the second half. Two early scores settled the team down again and they were never going to be beaten after some more scores before the end. At the final whistle there were great scenes of joy. Teddy McCarthy, chairman of the South East Bord na nÓg presented the winning shield to Michael Howard captain of Shamrocks. Crosshaven never gave up and to their credit they were very gracious in defeat. Special mention must go to the parents of the children who came out in strength to support the kids and especially to the team management of Dick Andrews, Ian Breen, Jim Ronayne & Steven O’Reilly who have looked after the U-10s, U-11s & U-12s all season.
Team. Gary Hartnett, Coby O’ Grady, David Raleigh, Lorcan Fidgeon, Jack Breen, Mathew Garvey, Jack Howard, Michael Howard, Aongus Boland, Patrick Murphy, Daniel O’Reilly, Darragh Scriven, Brendan Crowley, Conor Walter, Andrew O’ Grady, Subs, Cormac Scriven, David Andrews, Mark Hitchmough, Sean Kidney, Shane Kelleher, Christopher Hayes.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  

 

Week ended – 22nd October 2006

 

U13 Football – 16/10

Ballygarvan 2-07 Shamrocks 2-04
This game was played under floodlights in Ballygarvan on Monday Night last. We started very well and had 1-03 on the board before Ballygarvan opened their account. At half time we led by 5 points but only scored 1 more point in the second half to add to our first half score. A lot of the players didn’t play to their full potential on the night but there were some positive displays especially from our backs. The next game is in Shanbally next Sunday morning at 11am vs. kinsale. Special thanks to Ballygarvan for holding this game under lights
Team J.Lynch, P.Barry, D.Breen, D.Barton, J.Raleigh, C.Kidney, J.O’Driscoll, A.Dunne, D.Sheehan, R.Twomey, T.O’Mahony, S.Horgan, D.Kelleher, S.Healy, S.Moore, Subs -D.Raleigh, C.O’Mahony, D.O’Reilly, M.Howard, C.Walter, J.Breen.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                

 

Week ended – 29th October 2006

 

U11 Football – 22/10 & 23/10

The under 11s played two matches last Sunday and Monday and came away with two victories. The Sunday match was played straight away after the U-13 match on the second pitch in Shanbally. A much stronger Ballinhassig team was soon causing a lot of problems for us in all positions. They led 1-05 to 0-01 at half time. A lot of strong words were spoken by the selectors at half time. At the restart some fine points was scored by a much transformed Shamrocks team. A Mathew Garvey pile driver of a free to the back of the net left us trailing by only 1 point entering the last few minutes. We were awarded a 45 and to the delight of the very large crowd, Michael Howard won a great ball and found the back of the net to leave us victorious by 2 points. Then on Monday night, they made the trip to Ballygarvan to play the home team under lights. They had a comfortable victory. This puts them in a good position to qualify for another final with one game to go against Kinsale. The club would like to thank the Ballygarvan club for facilitating the game, especially Teddy McCarthy. This team is giving us much enjoyment throughout the long season. Great credit is due to the parents and selectors who are giving up so much of their time to support this very successful underage team.

 

U13 Football – 22/10

This game was played in Shanbally last Sunday morning in brilliant sunshine. It was played on the second pitch which was in great condition for this time of year. Shamrocks started brightly and got an early goal to settle them down. Kinsale replied with some great points and scored two goals at either side of half time. The movement of the Kinsale forwards and the link up play from midfield was causing us all sorts of trouble. We were trailing by 11points with 20 minutes to go. Some switches were made by the selectors and the lads responded in great fashion. We scored 3-05 with out reply to run out winners of a great game. Best for Shamrocks were Cal O’Mahony in goal, Jamie O’Driscoll, Cathal Kidney, Roy Twomey, Shane Horgan, Steven Healy. We have one game left to play in this Vs Ballinhassig next weekend.
Team: C.O’Mahony, D.Breen, D, Barton, J.Raleigh, C.Kidney, J.O’Driscoll, A.Dunne, R.Twomey, S.Horgan, T.O’Mahony, D.Barry, D.Kelleher, S.Moore, S.Healy.

 

Presentation of Jerseys

Special thanks must also go to Mark Hickey and his staff of the Shamrock Bar for presenting us with a new set of jerseys for the U-10s. He provided us with entertainment, food and drink last Saturday night. Banisteoir Dick Andrews accepted the jerseys from Mark and thanked him for the support he has given us over the last few years. Our U-14s also received a new set of jerseys this week thanks to Supervalu Carrigaline. Manager Michael Kidney thanked Barry Collins of Carrigaline in his speech for the promotion that was held during the summer that enabled us to get these jerseys. This new jerseycan be ordered from any committee member as we will be selling replicas of these in adult and the children sizes for €30.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   

 

Week ended – 5th November 2006

 

U13 Football – 5/11

The under 13 season finished last weekend as the boys lost to a strong Ballinhassig side. Thanks to all the players, supporters and in particular the mentors as well.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                

 

Week ended – 26th November 2006

 

County Board Draw

The 2006/2007 version of the best GAA draw in Ireland is up and running again for the year and for the second year in a row, Shamrocks have increased their number of members which is excellent financial news altogether. We would really like to thank everyone who bought a ticket and wish you luck in the forthcoming draws. Also to our ticket sellers, whether you sold one or 25, it dosent matter, they all count. Without you it wouldnt be worth the bother so thank you to all them as well.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                

 

Week ended – 17th December 2006

 

Club AGM – 4/12 and 11/12

The following officers were elected at the clubs recent AGM, held in the Grace McCarthy rooms in Shanbally. Chairperson – John Twomey. Vice Chairperson – Pat O’Neill. Secretary – Patrick Andrews. Treasurer – Sean Horgan. Registrar – Finny O’Flaherty. PRO – Colin Brady. County Board Draw coordinator – Lorcan Aherne. South East Board delegates – Pat O’Neill and Declan O’Neill. Groundsmen – Pat O’Neill and Jimmy O’Neill. A new Finance Committee was set up consisting of Sean Horgan (chairperson sub-committee), Patrick Andrews, Peter Prout and Dave O’Flaherty. A Pitch Committee was set up to assist Pat and Jimmy O’Neill and it consists of Tony O’Sullivan, Liam Shanahan and Dave O’Neill. Football and Hurling managers would be selected at a later date.

Underage Presentation night – 15/12

The club held a very enjoyable and well attended presentation night last Friday night in Pfizers sports club. It was great to see so many young players and their parents in attendance. Thanks to John ‘Socket’ Twomey who was the main organiser of te event and to all others who helped out in any way. The successful underage teams in the club in 2006 received their medals from Cork Senior Footballers Micheal Prout and Graham Canty.