Archives 1999

 

Week ended – 7th Febuary 1999

 

Winning start for Junior A Footballers – 7/2
Shamrocks 0-12, Tracton 0-10
The Junior footballers made a winning start to the year on Sunday Feb 7 in the Carrigdhoun Junior Football Cup ( 13 a side) at Shanbally. Shamrocks were never led over the hour and got off to a good start with points from Dave O’Neill, Colin O’Mahony and the returning Brian Beale. Shamrocks led at half-time 0-6 to 0-4. Tracton came back strongly in the second half and drew level 0-10 all with 5 mins to go. But some great defending by the Shamrocks backs and midfielders allowed Dave O’Neill from a free and Darragh Collins from play to kick the winning points.
The team was: Michael Prout, Declan Sheehan, Alan Aherne, Bernard Hickey, Ronan Collins, Cian Ronayne, Brian Beale (0-2), Brian Sweeney (0-1), Dave O’ Neill (0-4), Darragh Collins (0-1), Patrick Andrews, Colin O’ Mahony (0-1) and Aidan Carroll (0-3).

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

 

Week ended – 14 Febuary 1999

 

Junior Footballers Lose – 14/2
Shamrocks 2-5, Ballinhassig 2-7
The Junior Footballers lose their first match of the year in the Carrigdhoun Junior Football Cup on Sunday Feb 14 last in Shanbally. Both sets of defences were on top over the hour. Shamrocks were level going into the last few minutes but unlike the previous week, they conceded two late points this time.
The team was Michael Prout, Declan Sheehan, Alan Aherne, Bernard Hickey, Ronan Collins, Cian Ronayne, Brian Sweeney, Alan Geary, Patrick Andrews, Darragh Collins (0-2), Dave O’Neill (2-2), Aidan Carroll and Colin O’Mahony (0-1).

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

 

Week ended – 21 Febuary 1999

 

Junior Footballers Lose Second in a Row – 21/2
Kinsale 2-9, Shamrocks 0-2
The Junior A footballers lost their second match of the year last Sunday to Kinsale in Kinsale in the Carrigdhoun Junior Football Cup. Shamrocks were never in the game and were outclassed by a more determined and fitter Kinsale. The Shamrocks first-half scorer was Colin O’Mahony after a good move from midfield. The half-time score was Shamrocks 0-1, Kinsale 1-5, but Shamrocks would have been happy with that scoreline considering the gale they had to play into in that first half. However, Shamrocks could not make the wind advantage pay in the second half and Kinsale spent most of the half on the attack. As a result, the best Shamrocks players were mostly defenders, namely Dick Andrews, Declan Sheehan and Darren Roche with Cian Ronayne trying hard up front. Michael Prout didn’t put a foot wrong in goal. An extremely dissappointing Shamrocks performance ended Shamrocks 0-2, Kinsale 2-9. Things can only get better after a scoreline like that.
The team was Michael Prout, Declan Sheehan, Darren Roche, Bernard Hickey, Alan Aherne, Dick Andrews, Brian Sweeney, Dave O’Flaherty, Cian Ronayne, Darragh Collins, Dave O’Neill (0-1), Declan McDonnell and Colin O’Mahony (0-1).

 

Junior Training- Bill O’Connor

After the largely dissapointing start to the football season, which featured a lot of tired players in games, training for ALL able bodied players, from minor up, resumed out in ‘the Track’ this Monday night last, Feb 22, at 8.15pm. Managers John Collins and Sid Kidney have recruited Mr. Bill O’Connor to coach Shamrocks Hurling and Football teams this year. Bill is a qualified PE instructor, and operates out of the Naval Base in Haulbowline. Bill will bring a very professional approach to training this year, with the emphasis on fitness. He has previously coached various Senior and Intermediate teams toCountyFinals. Training will alternate between ‘the track’ and the Naval Base.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

 

Week ended – 27 March 1999

 

Junior Hurling Tournament Game – 17/3/99
Brian Dillons 3-9 , Shamrocks 0-12
Shamrocks had a terrible start to this game being 1-2 to 0-9 down after 5 mins and they could’nt quite make up the deficit throughout the match despite good performances from John Dineen, Pat Sullivan, Colin O Sullivan, Alan Aherne and in particular Darragh Collins was the outstanding player on the pitch.
The team was: R Collins, D Roche, R Lannon, P Prout, J Dineen, B Sweeney (0-2), A Geary, P Sullivan, S Kelly (0-1), B Hickey. SUBS: D Sheehan, P Andrews, B Beale, D McDonnell.

 

Junior Football League – 21/3

Ballinhassig 0-9, Shamrocks 2-3
Shamrocks were lucky to get away from Goggins Hill with a draw last Sunday afternoon. A gale force wind blowing straight down the pitch made conditions very hard (and unusual) to play in, making it a game of two halves. Even though Shamrocks did’nt score in the first period, they did very well to keep the score at half time Ballinhassig 0-7, Shamrocks 0-0. In the second half Shamrocks exerted the pressure but found scores hard to come by. The goal scorers were Darragh Collins from a penalty and a ‘scrambled effort’ from Sid Kidney.
Team: M Prout, D Sheehan, P Prout, D O Flaherty, C Roynane, D Roche, R Collins, B Sweeney, S Kelly, A Geary (0-2), M Kidney (1-0), C O Mahony, P Andrews, D Collins (1-1) and D O Neill.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

 

28th Mar to 24th May 1999

Junior Section – Interdivisional Hurling League – 28/3
Shamrocks 1-6, Kilbrittan 0-4
Shamrocks had a good start to their competitive hurling season with a hard fought win over the visitors last Sunday. Conditions were very difficult to play in, hence the low scoring. The half-time score was 0-3 each with Kilbrittan having played with the wind. The game was evenly balanced until 10 mins from time, when Shamrocks best foward, Darragh Collins found the net. The entire Shamrocks defence played superb throughout, providing the fowards with plenty of ball. The afore-mentioned Collins plus the very unlucky Alan Aherne on occasions were the best up front. We wish a speedy recovery to goalkeeper Pa Andrews who dislocated his shoulder while pulling off a save and was taken to hospital. Team: P.Andrews, D.O’Flaherty, P.Prout, D.Roche, D.Andrews, W. Ashman, M.Kidney, A.Geary, P.Sullivan, C.O’Sullivan, D.Collins (1-6), S.Kelly, B.Hickey, A.Aherne, C.O’Mahony.

 

JHL – 11/4
Courceys 2-17, Shamrocks 0-7
Shamrocks were well beaten by a strong and efficent Courcey’s. Shamrocks tried hard but their lack of scoring power up front cost them. Best on the day were the Prout brothers, John Dineen at centre-back, Michael Kidney at wing back and Cian Ronayne up front. Team: M.Prout, D.Roche, P.Prout, D.Flaherty, M.Kidney, J.Dineen, B.Sweeney, P.Sullivan, D.Andrews, S.Kelly, A.Aherne, A.Geary, C.Ronayne, D.Collins, B.Hickey. Subs used- C.O’Sullivan, D.Sheehan.

 

Junior B Hurling League – 18/4
Shamrocks 0-12, Tracton 0-8
Shamrocks made heavy work of overcoming Tracton’s third string last Sunday. Shamrocks were never behind in this game and led by 6 points to 3 at half time. Tracton pulled level half way through the second half. However, Shamrocks weathered the storm and finished the stronger with points from Colin O’Sullivan, Darragh Collins and Colin O’Mahony. Michael Prout in goal, Dave O’Flaherty and Darren Roche were others to impress for Shamrocks.

 

Junior Football League – 27/4
For the second time in one week, Shamrocks made the trip to Camden to play Crosshaven in the Junior Football League. With conditions ideal, it was pleasing to see two teams serve up a fine competitive display with Shamrocks taking the points with the score 2-7 to 1-8. Crosshaven went into top gear from the throw in and inside seven minutes were 1-3 to no score. Shamrocks improved their efforts and as the break came the lead had been cut to one goal. The mentors made a few shrewd switches at half time and the second half started with plenty of Shamrocks initiative and a Brian Beale goal raised the spirits. With fifteen minutes to go Shamrocks were 1-1 ahead but the home side made one great effort and drew level with four minutes remaining. However Shamrocks were in no position to yield and some great moves upfield brought two points and a deserved win. Dick Andrews put in a great hour and Alan Aherne and Alan Geary’s contribution increased with Kenny Fitzgerald using possession very well. The prodical son Michael Lannon came in at half time and very quickly he made his mark as there is still a good engine in the youngster who won SE medals in 1988 and 1989. Team: R.Stuart, B.Hickey, A.Aherne, D.Flaherty, D.Andrews, D.Roche, D.Sheehan, B.Sweeney, A.Geary, C.Ronayne, K.Fitzgerald, S.Kelly, D.Collins, B.Beale, A.Carroll. Subs used M.Kidney and M.Lannon.

 

Junior Football League – 1/5
Valley Rovers 1-7, Shamrocks 1-11
A second win in the week for the junior footballers. Players who made notable contributions to this good win were Michael Lannon, Peter Prout, Alan Aherne, Michael Prout in goal and Kenny Fitzgerald who got the Shamrocks goal.

 

Junior Hurling League – 2/5
Shamrocks 0-8, Ballymartle 1-10
Another disappointing defeat here. The entire defense played very well, unfortunately the forwards couldn’t turn possession into scores, with a number of scorable frees not finding the target. Darren Roche, Darragh Collins and Brian Sweeney played well for Shamrocks. The team was M. Prout, D.Sheehan, R.Lannon, P.Prout, B.Sweeney, D.Roche, D.Flaherty, M.Kidney, S.Kelly, C.O’Sullivan, J.Dineen, C.Ronayne, B.Hickey, D.Collins, K.Coveney. Subs used D.McDonnell and S. O’Mahony.

 

Junior Football League – 16/5
Ballymartle 4-10, Shamrocks 2-8
Ballymartle deservedly ran out winners to hand Shamrocks their first defeat in the SE league. Ballymartle led 2-4 to 1-3 at the break and put the game beyond Shamrocks immediatly after the break. However Shamrocks finished the stronger, getting some fine scores in the process. Gary Prout, Peter Prout, Alan Geary played well.

 

Junior Footballers Championship Over  

Tracton 2-13, Shamrocks 1-5
Shamrocks Junior Footballers continued their woeful Championship record of recent years when their day of reckoning for 1999 turned into a disastrous defeat at the hands of a very determined Tracton at Carrigaline last Sunday night. Tracton started the better and playing with the strong breeze, led by 0-7 to 0-3 approching half-time. However, a Darragh Collins opportunist goal right before the short whistle brought Shamrocks right back into contention, and the half time suitation looked promising, Tracton 0-7, Shamrocks 1-3. Whatever hope Shamrocks had of pulling off a victory were truly annihilated within ten minutes of the second half when Tracton cut through the Shamrocks defence repeatedly and added two goals and a number of points. Such was Tracton’s dominance in the second half that the supply of ball to the Shamrocks forwards was very low, and in fairness, they did look capable of scoring when indeed they did have the ball. After all the hard work previously, the disappointment was palpable amongst the players afterwards, as this certainly was one of the worst Shamrocks performances of the year. The team are a lot better than this. Team.: Michael Prout, Declan Sheehan, Alan Ahern, Bernard Hickey, Dave O’Flaherty, Darren Roche, Dick Andrews, Peter Prout, Brian Sweeney, Cian Ronayne, Ken Fitzgerald, Mick Lannon, Darragh Collins, Alan Geary, Brian Beale. Subs: Aidan Carroll, Colin O’Mahony, Colin O’Sullivan, Gary Prout.

 

U21 Footballers Show True Grit in semi final – 20/4
Shamrocks 6-5, Crosshaven 1-4 Having travelled to Carrigaline on Sat night last, the rescheduled U21 Football Championship tie with Crosshaven eventally went ahead in Camden on the following Tue night with a SE gale prevailing throughout. The playing surface was excellent.
The opening half saw Shamrocks play with the gale and they dominated proceedings. Juvenile player Michael Prout was to the fore early on and scored a goal from a 45 metre free. Aidan Carroll got another from a penalty and Alan Jeffords scored his first goal. At the break, Shamrocks led 3-5 to no score. The second half was to show Shamrocks at their best and with great spirit and determination they kept their opponents at bay and conceded only 1-4, but most importantly hitting three great goals from the razor sharp Alan Jeffords. All the Shamrock players were heroes on the night.
Robert Stuart was so safe and reliable between the posts with full back Derek Livingstone in great form also. Darren Roche had a fine hour with his wing backs Ronayne and Hurley always in support. Tods Sweeney excelled at midfield with Michael Prout showing class and style throughout. Colin O’Mahony had a great second half also, and the bonus for winning this one is a place in the final to be played on the first weekend of May. Team: R.Stuart, J.Sweeney, D.Livingstone, B.Hurley, D.Roche, C.Ronayne, B.Sweeney, M.Prout, A.Jeffords, A.Carroll, G.Prout,C.O’Mahony, C.O’Sullivan. (13 a side) Subs P.O’Mahony, C.Tagney, I.Allen.

 

U21 Footballers capture Title – 15/5
The club’s U21 footballers take pride of place this week having won the SE U21 ‘B’ Football championship with a fine victory over Carrigaline on a scoreline 3-3 to 0-4.
With team manager Michael ‘Sid’ Kidney on vacation, it was the old warrior himself Pat McCarthy who was at the helm ably assisted by Billy Timlin, Bernard Hickey and Joe O’Donovan. They did a fine job and the team selected put in a great first half. They led 3-2 to 0-1 at the break. The goals were the vital scores, coming from Paul O’Mahony, Aidan Carroll and Alan Jeffords. Only for some wayward shooting the figures could have been better.
The main architects for this merited and deserved victory were the midfield pairing of Cian Ronayne and Brian Sweeney. They provided plenty of ball for the forwards and helped their backs especially in the second half when Carrigaline put on the pressure. Darren Roche at centre-back was also outstanding and the full-backs Derek Livingstone and Brian McCarthy were very dependable all through. Juvenile keeper Ml. Prout made a few vital saves when the pressure was on. Overall, this was a fine hour for the team and the club. After the game, captain Cian Ronayne was presented with the cup by Mr. John Middleton, Vice-Chairman of the board. Team: M.Prout, B.McCarthy, D.Livingstone, B.Hurley, D.Roche, C.O’Mahony, B.Sweeney, C.Ronayne, C.O’Sullivan, A.Carroll, G.Prout, P.O’Mahony, A.Jeffords. Subs: J.Sweeney for Hurley (inj).

 

U12 Football League – 3/5
Shamrocks 8-8, Douglas 5-9
Full credit to both teams, who served up a cracker at Shanbally. In what was a high scoring game and Shamrocks fourth win in a row, Ivan Murphy in goal, Cian McCann, Sean Bourke and Darragh Cotter played very well for Shamrocks.

 

U12 Football League – 12/5
Shamrocks 5-7, Ballygarvan 3-8
An absolutely thrilling finish to this match, with a strong Ballygarvan performance enabling them to lead by 3 points with 5 minutes remaining. But then the drama started, with Shamrocks staging a storming finish to win by 5 points in the end. Best for the home side were Sean Burke, midfielders David Hayes and Darragh Cotter, Ronan O’Sullivan and Gary Ronayne.

 

U12 Football semi-final – 24/5
Ballygarvan 3-7, Shamrocks 3-4
The U12 f/ballers suffered their first defeat of the year, and as a consequence find themselves out of the league. This was an excellent game of football between two evenly matched and committed teams. Ballygarvan were faster to get into their stride, and led by 2-1 to 0-0 after 15 minutes. However, by half time Shamrocks, mainly through Ronan O’Sullivan with 1-2 and Gavin Boland’s goal, were level, 2-2 each. The second half was nip and tuck all the way, with Ballygarvan pulling 3 points ahead in the last couple of minutes. However, this Shamrocks team can be very proud of the way they performed this year. Scorers: R.O’Sullivan 1-2, Ronan Murphy 1-1, G.Boland 0-1 and Tomas Barrett 0-1.

 

U14 Football League – 30/5
Our under 14 footballers had a convincing win against Carrigaline last Friday night. Right from the throw in Shamrocks were in complete control. Joseph Shanahan was the top scorer with seven points. Other scorers included Senan Andrews, Ronan O’Sullivan, Eoin O’Mahony, Chris O’Neill, Sean Bourke, Oisin Boland, Tomas Barrett and David Hayes, while Rory Brien was the pick of the backs.

 

U14 Football League – 4/5
Shamrocks 2-4, Ballinhassig 3-9
Shamrocks were beaten by a very good Ballinhassig team in their first game of the week. Ballinhassig raced into a early lead and were a good 10 points up after 20 mins. But Shamrocks, despite missing a few regulars, came back into it through goals from Joe Shanahan and Chris O’Neill to leave the half time score 2-5 to 2-1 in favour of Ballinhassig. Shamrocks reduced the gap to 3 points with some forceful play, but the concession of a soft goal mid-way through the second half put paid to their comeback efforts, and Ballinhassig ran out convincing winners. Only Kevin Brady and Eoin O’Mahony proved effective throughout for Shamrocks.

 

U14 Fooball League – 7/5
Ballygarvan 0-7, Shamrocks 4-14
A comfortable victory in the end for Shamrocks. Eoin O’Mahony set the ball rolling early on with a superb fisted goal and the lads never looked back thereafter. Ronan O’Sullivan, Oisin Boland and Niall Tuohy added three more before the end. Others to impress were Terence O’Sullivan in goal, Rory Brien and Ciaran Fitxpatrick. Shamrocks are now in the semi-final to be fixed at a later date.

 

U16 Football League – 27/4
Shamrocks 2-7, Ballinhassig 1-10
Our under 16 footballers had to pull out all the stops to get a draw in this encounter at Shanbally. Shamrocks found themselves 3 points and a man down with 10 minutes remaining but 3 pointed frees saved the home team. Shamrocks have advanced to the knockout stages of this competition. Team: B.Mulqueen, D.O’Neill, C.Brady, T.O’Keeffe, C.O’Neill, M.Prout, D.Burke, M.O’Sullivan, J.Shanahan, S.Collins, E.O’Mahony, S.Carroll, E.O’Rahilly, S.O’Neill, T.Forde. Subs D.Tuohy, N.Hayes, K.Brady, S.Andrews.

 

U16 F/ballers lose League Final – 10/5
Crosshaven 6-5, Shamrocks 3-5
Crosshaven ran out convincing winners of the C League Final played at wet and windy Carrigaline. The conditions certainly did not suit the Shamrocks ball players and Crosshaven’s greater size and physical strength were the reason for their deserved 3 goal victory. Crosshaven led by 3 points, 2-2 to 0-5 at the break after having played with the wind. However, the concession of 1-2 immediately after half time meant that Shamrocks had a mountain to climb and despite a spirited comeback, some sloppy goals conceded at their own end cost Shamrocks. Colin Brady was Shamrocks best player, with Nicky Hayes, Tadhg O’Keeffe, Joe Shanahan and Michael Prout having their moments. Team: B.Mulqueen, N.Hayes, C.Brady, D.O’Neill, D.Bourke, T.O’Keeffe, C.O’Neill, J.Shanahan, M.Prout, S.Carroll, E.O’Mahony, S.Collins, S.O’Neill, S.Andrews, M.Murphy. Subs used: D.Tuohy, T.Forde, E.O’Rahilly.

 

U16 Hurling – 19/5
Shamrocks ran out convincing winners of this encounter with Douglas inDouglas. Shamrocks finally got going with a Dave Bourke goal after twenty minutes, and from there on in it was all Shamrocks, with Terence O’Sullivan keeping a clean sheet in goal, Dave O’Neill authoritative at corner back, Michael Prout commanding at centre back, and Mark O’Sullivan, Stephen O’Neill and Dave Bourke doing the scoring up front. Team: T.O’Sullivan, D.O’Neill, C.Brady, T.Forde, C.O’Neill (0-1), M.Prout (0-1), T.O’Keeffe, S.Andrews, S.Collins (0-1), M.O’Sullivan (0-2), E.O’Rahilly, D.Bourke (1-2), S.O’Neill (2-0), E.O’Mahony (0-1). Subs: S.Carroll, B.Mulqueen.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                

Week ended – 19th June 1999

 

U14 Footballers Capture Title in Style
Shamrocks 4-12 Ballinhassig 2-3
The U14 footballers had a tremedous victory against all the odds when they comprehensively beat a fancied Ballinhassig side. They set the scene from the start with Senan Andrews and Joseph Shanahan dominating at midfield and Sean Burke slotting home a well deserved early goal. Shamrocks led by 5 points midway through the first half but Ballinhassig came back before halftime with a goal and a point.Shamrocks moved up a gear after the break and sustained pressure yielded goals from Eoin O Mahony and Ronán O Sullivan which put the game beyond our rivals. Terence O Sullivan was sound in goal. David Touhy had a blinder at corner back and Rory O Brien was prominent at wing back. Chris O Neill played a captains part at centre back. As well as the aforementioned Oisin Boland and Gavin Rogerswere involved throughout.
Team: T O’Sullivan, S O’Keeffe, K Brady, D Touhy, R Brien, C O’Neill, C Fitzpatrick, S Andrews, J Shanahan, O Boland, E O’Mahony, G Rogers, S Bourke, B Mulqueen, D Hayes, R O’Sullivan, N Touhy, G Foley, J Curry, S Twomey. All subs used.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                               
 

Week ending – October 1999

 

U16 Footballers Bridge 21 Year Gap

Shamrocks 3-7 Valley Rovers 2-9

Through sheer determination, character, never-say-die attitude, shrewd positional changes, great team work, coupled with some oustanding individual displays and two of the best goals you’ll see anywhere all year, Shamrocks became one of the first C Grade teams in a long time to win the South East U16 A Football Championship. 

Allied to this Michael Prout became the first person from Shamrocks, since Michael Murphy from Shanbally 21 years ago, to lift this particular trophy.
A lethal looking Valley Rovers full forward line had them 1-2 to 0-0 up after only ten minutes and the threatened to overwhelm Shamrocks. Howerver Shamrocks, mainly through the switch of Senan Andrews with Michael Prout, came back into it and Senan Collins goal suggested that Shamrocks were well in the hunt. It was Shamrocks on top now and enter Mark O Sullivan, who had been quiet up to then. Two fantastic goals, either side of half time stretched Shamrocks lead to seven points.

But Valley Rovers are not ValleyRovers for nothing and they got right back on top after this and pushed Shamrcoks all the way. In fact they went in front with less than 10 minutes to play and things looked glum for Shamrocks. Barry Mulqueen had to bring off two magnificent saves towards the end. Shamrocks took heart from these, weathered the storm and finished with two points to win by the odd point in 31.
It completed a fantastic team performance where each and every one of the players and subs contributed. Obviously, Mark O Sullivan impressed with 2-3, along with Barry Mulqueen in goal, Senan Andrews at centre back, Mickey Prout at midfield, Dave Bourke with two vital points from play and sub Stephen Carroll. They now go into the county section next Sunday.

Team : B Mulqueen, D O’Neill, C Brady, T’O Keeffe, C’O Neill, M Prout, N Hayes, S Andrews, M O’Sullivan, D Bourke, E O’Mahony, J Shanahan, S Collins, S O’Neill, T Forde. Subs: S Carroll, D Touhy, M Murphy, E O’Rahilly.

 

U16 County Championship
Youghal 4-9, Shamrocks 0-5
Shamrocks run in the Championship ended at the County Quarter-Final stage, which was played at windy Shanagarry last weekend. Although Youghal certainly deserved their victory, the scoreline is most definetly flattering to Youghal, and does scant justice to Shamrocks efforts over the hour. The simple fact is that Shamrocks only woke up in the second half, but it was too little too late at that stage, 4-3 to 0-4 down at the break, and facing into a gale of a wind. The game was over as a contest coming up to half time, as Youghal exposed and exploited Shamrocks weaknesses in the full-back line, as they got their fourth goal of the half, while Shamrocks at the other end hit the woodwork no less than 4 times in the same period.
The second half was a more even affair, with both teams having plenty of chances. Shamrocks best player on the day was Tadhg O’Keeffe, who played his best match of the year. Mark O’Sullivan and Eoin O’Mahony were other who tried very hard.
Team: B.Mulqueen, D.O’Neill, C.Brady, T.O’Keeffe, C.O’Neill, M.Prout, N.Hayes, S.Andrews, M.O’Sullivan, D.Bourke, E.O’Mahony, J.Shanahan, S.Collins, S.O’Neill, T.Forde. Subs used: D.Tuohy, S.Carroll, M.Murphy, E.O’Rahilly.

 

U14s Lose A Football Championship Final – 6/8
Valley Rovers 3-12, Shamrocks 0-3
Valley Rovers proved much too strong and powerful for a youthful Shamrocks side at Riverstick last Friday night. In what was a brutal night for any kind of outdoor activity, Shamrocks started brightly and were most unfortunate to find themselves 1-1 to 0-1 down after 10 minutes. But from here to the break Valley Rovers put some distance between the teams and the half-time score was 2-5 to 0-1 in favour of the Innishannon boys. Despite a brief Shamrocks rally at the start of the second, Valley Rovers were always going to win this championship final, and they finished with a flurry of scores.
On what was a difficult night for the lads, Kevin Brady turned in an excellent display at full-back, and others to play well were Rory Brien, Ciaran Fitzpatrick, Eoin O?Mahony and sub Niall Touhy.
Team: B.Mulqueen, R.Brien, K.Brady, D.Touhy, C.Fitzpatrick, C.O’Neill, G.Rogers, S.Andrews, J.Shanahan, O.Boland, E.O’Mahony, D.Hayes, S.Bourke, R.O’Sullivan, R.McCarthy. Subs N.Touhy, S.Twomey, T.Barrett.

 

U14 Hurling League – 6/9
Shamrocks 4-7, Ballygarvan 0-3
Shamrocks completed the double of the U14 C grade this year by demolishing what was expected to be a much sterner challenge from Ballygarvan. It was simply an outstanding second half display from Shamrocks, and two players in particular, Senan Andrews and Eoin O’Mahony (with excellent support from everyone else) were the bane of the Ballygarvan defense all night.
On what was an excellent sod at Carrigaline, Shamrocks, with the wind to their backs, found it very hard to break down a resolute Ballygarvan defence in the first-half. They found the Ballygarvan keeper in good form in this half. Andrews, O’Mahony and Joe Shanahan made it 0-3 to 0-0 to Shamrocks at half-time. At this stage it didnt look good but some stern words must have been said at half time because Shamrocks were all over the opposition after the break. Once Eoin O’Mahony burst through for the first goal 10 minutes into the half, it was all over. Some magnificent scores were recorded, none more so than Steven Twomeys excellent point and an absolute screamer from Senan Andrews. Eanna Cole and Oisin Boland got the other all -important goals. Apart from the afore-mentioned, every player really played their part, including the subs introduced. Well done to everyone involved.
Team: Terence O’Sullivan, Steven O’Keeffe, Barry Mulqueen, David Tuohy, Rory Brien, Chris O’Neill, Ciaran Fitzpatrick, Senan Andrews (1-2), Joe Shanahan (0-2), Robert McCarthy, Eoin O’Mahony (1-2), David Hayes, Oisin Boland (1-0), Ronan O’Sullivan, Dave Bourke. Subs Steven Twomey (0-1), Niall Tuohy, Eanna Cole (1-0).

 

U12 Football League – 14/8
Shamrocks 2-6, Doneraile 2-9.
This thrilling game was played in very windy conditions at Shanbally. With Shamrocks playing with the strong wind in the first half, it was important that they built up a big score before the break. While the lads scored 2-6 in that first half, some wayward shooting was to prove costly in the second half.
Doneraile came out strong in the second half and kicked some good scores. In fairness to Shamrocks, they really dug deep to try and keep Doneraile at bay. They looked to have achieved this when holding on to a two point lead entering the last few minutes, when an unfortunate deflection from one of the backs ended up in the Shamrocks net. As manfully as they tried to score in the few remaining minutes, Shamrocks couldnt get through a very strong Doneraile back division. It is worth noting that 10 of the starting fifteen are underage again next year and five for another two years.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                

 

August to November 1999

 

Junior B Hurling League – 25/8
Shamrocks 1-12, Crosshaven 1-9
Shamrocks guaranteed themselves a playoff spot in the SE Junior B Hurling league with this hard fought win over Crosshaven at Shanbally. Crosshaven were quick off the mark with a couple of early frees with the aid of the wind, but Shamrocks responded and Colin O’Mahonys goal, after good work by Kenny Coveney pulled them right back into it. From there to half-time it was largely tit-for-tat stuff with Crosshaven ahead by the minimum at the break, 1-7 to 1-6.
With the wind advantage in the second half, Shamrocks dominated more and ran out deserving winners in the end, thanks largely to good performances from Deccy Sheehan, Dick Andrews and Darragh Collins.
Team: R.Collins, S.O’Mahony, R.Lannon, M.Lannon, D. O’Flaherty, J.Dineen, D.Sheehan, M.Prout, D.Andrews, P.Andrews, W.Ashman, C.O’Mahony, A.O’Neill, D.Collins, K.Coveney. Subs used- B.Sweeney, B.McCarthy.

 

Junior B Hurling League Final – 10/10
Ballymartle 2-10, Shamrocks 1-12
The Junior B Hurlers had earlier set the ball rolling in what was a busy day for Shamrocks teams, unfortunately loosing out by the same margin in Crosshaven. It was a case of the final whistle coming a minute too soon for Shamrocks, as they were clearly finishing much the stronger, having come from nine points down in the last 15 minutes. Ballymartle started much the better and looked a lot more threatening in attack. Their goal in the first half was the difference between the sides at half time, with Shamrocks staying in touch through points from Patrick Andrews, Willie Ashman and John Dineen.
Ballymartle pulled right away at the start of the second half and it looked all over. They led 2-9 to 0-6, but Shamrocks showed some great fighting spirit, and nearly pulled this one out of the bag. Sub Brian McCarthy slammed home a rebound for the Shamrocks goal. But in the end, Ballymartle just about deserved it in what was a thrilling match for the spectators.
Team: R.Collins, K.Roche, R.Lannon, M.Lannon, D.Sheehan, J.Dineen, I.McCullagh, P.Sullivan, D.Andrews, P.Andrews, M.Hickey, C.Ronayne, K.Coveney, W.Ashman, A.O’Neill. Subs used B.McCarthy, K.Hegarty.

 

Minor Hurling League – 17/8
Shamrocks were well beaten by a much better Kinsale team in the minor championship last Tuesday week.
The team was Barry Mulqueen, Jamie Delanty, Colin Brady, Ian McCullagh, Brian McCarthy, Steven O’Neill, Michael Prout, Sean O’Driscoll, Mark O’Sullivan, Colin O?Mahony, Tadhg Forde, Eoin O’Sullivan.

 

Minor Football Championship – 28/8
Shamrocks had a good win over Tracton last weekend in this B championship game. The lads got off to a great start and were 1-7 to 0-2 ahead at the break, the goal coming from Tadhg Forde. However, Tracton came storming into the match in the second period, and but for some heroic defending from the Shamrocks backs, could have won this one. Final score Shamrocks 1-12, Tracton 1-10. They now play Carrigaline in the final.
Team: E.O’Mahony, C.Brady, Ronan Jordan, C.O’Mahony, Jamie Delanty, Eoin O’Sullivan, M.Prout, Ian Allen, S.O’Neill, M.O’Sullivan, Ian McCullagh, T.Forde, B.McCarthy. Subs B.Mulqueen, D.O’Neill.

 

Minor B Football Final Heartache – 8/9
Carrigaline 4-5, Shamrock 2-9
Carrigaline got a sweet victory over Shamrocks in this excellent game of Football at Camden last Wednesday night. Shamrocks, staring defeat in the face with 15 minutes to go, staged a tremendous fightback, and with a bit more awareness in front of goal in the last few moments, could have pulled off a deserved victory. The concession of three soft first-half goals proved a mountain too high for Shamrocks to climb in the end. Some of these players were making their first appearance of the year on a playing field, and aquitted themselves well.
It was a tough, hard battle all through with Shamrocks down by four points at half-time, after having led 0-3 to 0-0 early on. A Carrigaline goal stretched their lead early on in the second half and this seemed to spur Shamrocks into action. Colin Brady, Brian McCarthy, Ian McCullagh, Colin O’Mahony, Tadhg Cummins and Liam O’Sullivan came into it more and O’Sullivans goal gave them hope. However, in the end Carrigaline just about held on.
Team: RonanJordan, B.McCarthy, C.Brady, C.O’Mahony (0-3), Jamie Delanty, T. Cummins (0-1), M.Prout (1-3), Ian Allen, I.McCullagh, Mark O’Sullivan (0-1), Eoin O’Sullivan (0-1), T.Forde, Steven O’Neill. Subs L.O’Sullivan (1-0), Mark McSorley, Ross McCullagh, B.Mulqueen, S.Andrews, E.O’Mahony.

 

U16 A Hurling Championship – 11/8
Ballygarvan 4-15, Shamrocks 1-6
A young Shamrocks team made their exit from the Championship at the hands of what looks like an very good Ballygarvan team. Eventhough the winning margin was a wide one, this in no-way reflected Shamrocks efforts throughout the hour, and if Shamrocks had a bit more luck in front of goal, especially in the first half, they could have been much closer. The first half was a largely even affair, with Ballygarvan leading by 1-6 to 0-5. This was a gallant half from the Shamrocks team, as they were clearly up against a better team all-round. Michael Prout was outstanding at centre back in this half and ended with 0-4 to his credit.
Ballygarvan got most of their scores immediately after the restart, and the game was as good as over as a contest. However, Shamrocks, to their credit, kept plugging away to the final whistle. Colin Brady, Dave O’Neill, Barry Mulqueen, Micheal Prout, Mark O’Sullivan and Dave Bourke tried hardest.
Team: T.O’Sullivan, D.O’Neill, C.Brady, T.Forde, B.Mulqueen, M.Prout (0-4), C.O’Neill, S.Andrews, M.O’Sullivan, E.O’Rahilly (0-1), S.O’Neill (0-1), S.Collins S.Carroll, E.O’Mahony, D.Bourke (1-0).

 

U16 Hurling League
Shamrocks 0-12, Kinsale 2-7
A sickener of a result from a Shamrocks point of view, as they led by 11 points at half-time and the fact that this was the second time this particular Kinsale U16 team have caught us in the last minute this year at Shanbally. As a league game and a Championship plate game in one and playing with the aid of a strong breeze, it was important that Shamrocks built up a sufficient lead at half-time. And that they did, largely dominating in most sectors, with some excellent scores coming from Dave Bourke, Michael Prout and Steven O’Neill. Half-time 0-11 to 0-1.
Shamrocks started brightly after the break and looked capable of holding off Kinsale. But then it all went a bit pear shaped for the home team; they simply caved in for a five or six minute period and to their credit Kinsale were a point up, through their ability to capitalise on some sloppy defending. However, Shamrocks battled back to be level, then went a point down and with a bit of luck in front of goal, could have won this game in the end. The likelihood is that these two teams will meet each other again this year. It should be an interesting match!
Team: T.O’Sullivan, D.O’Neill, C.Brady, T.Forde, B.Mulqueen M.Prout (0-4), T.O’Keeffe, S.Andrews, M.O’Sullivan, C.O’Neill, E.O’Mahony, S.Collins, D.Bourke (0-4), S.O’Neill (0-4), S.Carroll. Sub used – E.O’Rahilly.

 

U16 Football Championship –  4/9
Shamrocks 2-8, Sliabh Rua 2-5
Shamrocks started brightly in this game and a Senan Andrews goal from a Michael Murphy pass was no more than Shamrocks deserved. The visitors came back strongly and both sides were level at half-time. The second half was evenly contested but good scores from Andrews, Steven O’Neill, Tadhg Forde and Mark O’Sullivan were enough to give us the verdict.

 

U16 Football Championship – 27/9
Kinsale 1-6 Shamrocks 1-8
A brillant victory for this brave U16 team out in Kinsale last Monday night in what was an excellent game of football from both teams. After finding themselves 3 points down inside the first 5 minutes Shamrocks battled back bravely to qualify for the SE Final. Senan Andrews, the outstanding Mark O?Sullivan, Michael Prout and Dave Bourke had their shooting boots on in the first half, which incidently featured a superb standard of football. Half-time score 0-6 to 0-5 for Kinsale.
Shamrocks started well in the second half and the excellent Seanán Collins had their first point, followed by Mark O’Sullivan, who stood out at midfield in what was otherwise a great team performance. Shamrocks got a real boost 15 minutes from the end when Mickey Prout soled through to score a peach of a goal. The lead went to 5 points, Kinsale brought it back to 2 with a penalty, but Shamrocks held on.
Team: B.Mulqueen, D.O’Neill, C.Brady, N.Hayes, C.O’Neill, M.Prout, T.O’Keeffe, S.Andrews, M.O’Sullivan, D.Bourke, E.O’Mahony, J.Shanahan, S.Collins, T.Forde, S.O’Neill. Subs used S.Carroll, D.Tuohy.

 

If anyone has any more reports to add to these, please let me know. I do not have any digital archives further back than 1999 but earlier material can be found on the Sporting Shamrocks book, our history book.

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