Week ended – 16th January 2002
Club AGM – 2002
The 104th Shamrocks AGM was held last Tuesday, night January 15, in Ringaskiddy Community Centre before a good sized attendance. The outgoing Club chairperson, secretary and tresurer gave their annual reports. Mr Florrie McCarthy was elected President of the club for life before all outgoing officers were re-elected to their positions. Pat Cusack, Michael Kidney, Ian Breen and Martin Jennings will again be in charge of Junior Football matters for 2002 while John Hanley, Liam Shanahan and Finny O’Flaherty will be at the helm of Junior Hurling, with the option of bringing in 2 more selectors/coaches. The outgoing Minor selectors were returned, along with last years Minor captain, Michael Prout. Club membership (euros – 40 ordinary, 10 oap and juveniles) will be targeted this year along with a hoped revamp of the club lotto. These two vital sources of income have been somewhat neglected by members of the club in recent years, so its hoped to target these areas for Income.
Week ended – 2nd Febuary 2002
Juvenile Club AGM – 2002
This was held last Thursday night (Jan 31st) in the Community Centre, Ringaskiddy before a large attendance. A full and frank discussion on all matters relating to the furtherment of our youth section was held, and the groundwork for the year ahead was laid out. All outgoing officers were re-elected for 2002. The Selectors for the various teams are as follows:
| U10 | Michael Kidney, John Twomey (Ringaskiddy), Ian Breen |
| U12 | Aidan Dwoney, Alan Tuohy, Pat McCarthy |
| U14 | Diarmuid Murphy, Jim Ronayne, Oliver McCann |
| U16 | Pat Tuohy, Patrick Andrews, Martin Barrett, Aidan Punch, John Twomey (Ring), Tony O’Sullivan |
Week ended – 18th Febuary 2002
City/Carrigdhoun A Football League
Shamrocks 1-7, St.Michaels 2-5.
A game that should have been won was dramatically transformed by two late St.Michaels goals at the death that left our visitors relieved and counting their good fortune.
An under strength Shamrocks team played some outstanding football in the poor conditions and heavy rain which fell for the duration of the game. Dave O’Neill, Daniel Stuart, Nicky Hayes and David Bourke were towers of strength at the back while Terence O’Sullivan was very prominent at midfield, Eoin O’Mahony was his usual all action self at centre forward and Stephen Carroll showed a lot of skill on the wing.
S.McGarry, D.O’Neill, D.Stuart, R.Brien, S.Collins, N.Hayes, D.Bourke, T.O’Sullivan, S.Carroll, E.O’Mahony, N.Tuohy, R.McCarthy, T.Forde, E.O’Rahilly. Subs used : S.O’Reilly, O.Boland, C.Fitzpatrick, N.Tuohy
Week ended – 25th Febuary 2002
Minor Football League – 25/2
Shamrocks 3-5, Brian Dillons 1-5
Shamrocks made heavy weather of defeating Dillons last Sunday morning before pulling away in the second half for their first victory in the league. The first half, played in high winds can be best forgotten by both teams as they found it difficult to get anything going and kicked some terrible wides. Ciaran Fitzpatrick had Shamrocks ahead at half time with the goal; 1-1 to 0-2. Dillo?s were proving to be sticky opponents but Shamrocks upped their game after the restart and good points from Terence O’Sullivan and Senan Andrews along with further goals from Ciaran Fitzpatrick and David Bourke saw Shamrocks pull away toward the end. The goalie and full-back lines played really well after some early scares along with Barry Mulqueen and Stephen Carroll. Team: S.McGarry, D.O’Neill, D.Stuart, D.Tuohy, D.Bourke, N.Hayes, B.Mulqueen, T.O’Sullivan, C.O’Neill, S.Carroll, S.Andrews, S.O’Reilly, S.Collins, E.O’Mahony, C.Fitzpatrick. Sub used; T.Forde.
Junior Football – 25/2
Shamrocks 0-8, Valley Rovers 1-2
Again the wind had a major bearing on this game blowing right across the field. However, it was a much improved Shamrocks performance in the second half which turned the whole game around after Valleys had led at half time 1-2 to 0-2. The shooting on both sides was poor, especially in the first half as both sides tried to adjust to the conditions. The first half was an even enough affair, with Valleys goal being the difference. Brian Sweeney and Michael Prout at midfield were hugely responsible for Shamrocks dominance in the second half as they won plenty of ball while kicking over 0-5 between them for good measure. Shamrocks scored some nice points in that second half in what was a good overall performance and a good start to the year. Team: D.Kilgannon, D.Sheehan, A.Aherne, C.Brady, C.Ronayne, I.Breen, C.O’Mahony, B.Sweeney, M.Prout, K.Tierney, B.Hickey, M.Kidney, P.Andrews, B.Beale, S.O’Neill. Subs used: D.McCann, J.McGuinness.
Week ended – 4th March 2002
Minor Football – 4/3
Shamrocks 0-15, Ballygarvan 0-4
Shamrocks eventually ran out convincing winners after failing to make the most of many clear-cut first half chances. Shamrocks led 0-5 to 0-1 at half time after squandering numerous point blank chances. The mentors obviously had the remedy at half time and most of the chances were taken in the second half. Senan Andrews kicked 5 points from play, while Chris O’Neill kicked 2 points. Simon McGarry in goal was commanding, Daniel Stuart at full back was always dependable, Senaán Collins was back to his beat in a forward role, while Robert McCarthy and Eoghan O’Rahilly who plenty of possession up front as well.
Junior Football – 4/3
Shamrocks 2-7, Ballinhassig 0-9
Another satisfactory result for the Juniors leaves them in a good position in the league after 2 games. A good performance from throughout the team again, but in particular the half-back and midfield was enough to give Shamrocks the 4 point cushion at the end. Darragh Collins scored 1-2 in the first half and this was more or less the margin at half time, with many Shamrocks attacks breaking down through poor final passing. Half-time score was Shamrocks 1-3, Ballinhassig 0-3. Shamrocks enjoyed a purple patch midway through the second half when they dominated possession and scored 1-3 without reply and while Ballinhassig finished much the stronger, Shamrocks had done enough at that stage to build up a lead to collect the league points. A much bigger test lies ahead this weekend when SE champions Kinsale travel to Shanbally on Sunday afternoon.
Congratulations
Shamrocks Minor player Joseph Shanahan of Colaiste Chriost Ri played half forward for his school in the Corn Ui Mhuiri semi-final victory over St.Fachtnas last weekend. Joseph set the Criost Ri comeback in motion after the restart with a goal and a point so we wish him well in the final. What many people dont know was that Joseph picked up a Simox Cup (Cork Senior Colleges) medal in the process (his second in a row) so we congratulate him on that and hope theres greater prizes to come.
Week ended – 11th March 2002
Minor A Football League
Shamrocks 2-6, Valley Rovers 1-4
A noteworthy scalp for Shamrocks with their third victory in a row, which sets them up nicely in the league table. This game was played in heavy conditions and a gale force wind and at one stage in the first half, the referee took both sets of players off the field as the hailstones and driving wing were so bad. Shamrocks were the much better team throughout the 60 minutes and deserved to win. The backs were well on top, particularly Dave Tuohy at corner back and the half backline of David Bourke, Chris O’Neill and Stephen O’Reilly. Shamrocks played good football into the wind and had some nice scores from Joe Shanahan and Seanán Collins. They led at half time and consolidated their play in the second half. Wides were shot throughout in the blustery conditions but the Senain Collins goal gave them extra breathing space. Valley Rovers responded with a goal from an unstoppable shot and appeared to be getting on top but then Barry Mulqueen scored the clinching goal 5 minutes from the end and the game was as good as over. Team: S.McGarry, D.Tuohy, D.Stuart, N.Hayes, D.Bourke, C.O’Neill, S.O’Reilly, S.Andrews, T.O’Sullivan, S.Carroll, J.Shanahan, S.Collins, R.McCarthy, B.Mulqueen, C.Fitzpatrick. Subs used: T.Forde.
Junior Football
Shamrocks 0-6, Kinsale 0-7
The simple story of this game, played in very heavy conditions in Shanbally last Sunday, was that Shamrocks should have won it. There was disappointment in the dressing room afterwards as Shamrocks knew this was a golden chance to beat the SE champions and County Finalists thrown away. Numerous chances went abegging throughout; certain points should have been goals, wides should have been slotted over, possession should have been converted into scores. It was almost a re-run of last years championship semifinal – Shamrocks much the better team in the first half, Kinsale coming back in the second. Shamrocks led at half time by one point after virtually owning the ball for the entire first half. However, the wind advantage was to be with Shamrocks in the second half. It made no difference – Kinsale capitalised on some woeful Shamrocks finishing to put togother some nice scores to just come out on the right side of the scoreline. In years gone by, a scoreline like this might be viewed as a moral victory for Shamrocks and while there were some good performances, hopes are much higher now, and this loss was a blow to the team. It was the last competitive game before they take on Courcey Rovers in the Championship in a months time.
Team: P.Cusack, D.McCann, D.Sheehan, D.Andrews, C.O’Mahony, I.Breen, C.Ronayne, B.Sweeney, M.Prout, B.Hickey, S.Andrews, S.O’Neill, A.Geary, D.Collins, M.Kidney.Subs: P.Andrews, W.O’Sullivan, K.Tierney.
Week ended – 25th March 2002
Minor A Football League
Shamrocks 2-6, St Vincents 0-8
Shamrocks continued their recent good performances with this victory over last years champions. Shamrocks were never in any danger in this game and their ability to get goals was the main difference between the teams. Shamrocks led by 1-3 to 0-3 at half time, Robert McCarthy with the goal. Senan Andrews and David Tuohy scored the other goals in the second half and while Vincents finished with a flurry of points, the game was well over at that stage. Team: S.McGarry, D.Tuohy, D.Stuart, D.O’Neill, S.O’Reilly, C.O?Neill, D.Bourke, E.O’Mahony, T.O’Sullivan, S.Andrews, S.Collins, O.Boland, C.Fitzpatrick, R.McCarthy. Subs used: N.Hayes, T.Forde.
Junior Hurling
Shamrocks played a useful challenge match on Sunday morning against Whitechurch who made the trip to Shanbally. No goals were scored in the game and Whitechurch ran out convincing winners, in a game played in wet conditions. The game was a nice workout for the City League campaign which begins mid April.
U16 Football League
Shamrocks 0-4, Douglas 2-9
Shamrocks were no match forDouglas on the day in their first game of the season. Short a number of regulars and with some of their players playing their 2nd and 3rd games of the day (!), Shamrocks only woke up in the second half. With a couple of league games already under their belt, Douglas caught Shamrocks cold in the first 20 minutes, by which time they had scored 2 fortuitous goals for a 2-5 total. Terence O?Sullivan had Shamrocks only point in that half. A much improved performance was asked for at half time and in fairness to the Shamrocks players, it was delivered. Shamrocks applied pressure to theDouglas goal for long periods but had only 3 points to show for their efforts, Ronan O’Sullivan at full-forward being unlucky with a few goal attempts. Backs Sean Bourke, Donal McAulliffe and in particular Oisin Boland had storming second halves while keeper Eanna Cole made some great point blank saves. Theres a break of a few weeks for this team when hopefully they’ll be better prepared for what lies ahead.
Week ended – 1st April 2002
Minor A Football League
Shamrocks 1-1, Ballinhassig 1-6
What can only be described as THE all-time worst performance from this particular bunch of lads, it is now hopefully out of the system for the bigger challenges, which lie ahead. Ballinhassig deserved their victory on the day without question; however they were helped by an insipid Shamrocks display. Ballinhassig raced into a 0-6 to 0-0 lead at half time after playing with the elements. You waited for Shamrocks to take over on the changeover but it never happened. Two scores from 60 minutes play, none of which came from the forwards, tells its own story. It was Shamrocks second defeat in the league while it was only Ballinhassigs second win. Funnily enough, they clash in the first round of the championship in August – thats the only consolation Shamrocks can take from this showing, that theres enough time, backup and talent to bounce back. Despite all this, Shamrocks will qualify for the knock out stages of this league as most of the better teams have been beaten with 3 more league games to go.
Easter Sunday Dinner Dance
Pfizers Sports Complex was packed on Easter Sunday night form our Annual Dinner Dance. It was great to see so many familiar faces, mingling with so many great Shamrocks names from the past. Old and young were present on a very successful night for the club- well done to the staff of Pfizers who kept things running smoothly on the night.
Week ended – 8th April 2002
U21 Football Championship
Shamrocks 6-8, Belgooly 0-10.
The old adage that goals win games was never more evident in this first round game held in Carrigaline last Saturday night. Shamrocks had the game over by half time with their extra class and ability to rip open the Belgooly defence at the appropriate time. Most of the scores came from quick ball released into the 2 man full-forward line (13 a side) of Stephen O’Neill (4-4) and Barry Mulqueen. Joseph Shanahan also scored a beauty in the first half which Shamrocks played into the breeze. Still Belgooly tried manfully to stay with Shamrocks without ever threatening a goal. They did score 10 points which was respectable enough scoring in itself but the youthful Shamrocks players, most of whom had being playing regular Minor Football recently, ran out comfortable winners in the end. Theres a small break now until the Semi-Finals on April 28. Shamrocks team: S.McGarry, D.Stuart, C.Brady, C.O’Neill, S.Andrews, N.Hayes, M.Prout, C.O’Mahony, S.Collins, J.Shanahan, E.O’Mahony, S.O’Neill, B.Mulqueen. Subs used: D.Bourke, S.Carroll, D.Tuohy.
U14 Football League
Carrigaline 2-13, Shamrocks 0-4
Their first game in the league ended in defeat last week against a very strong Carrig team. Shamrocks played some great football in the first half and led 0-4 to 0-2 at half time. However, they were’nt able to sustain it in the second half. They lost their way around the middle of the field and the backs came under tremendous pressure. Carrigaline poured forward and got their scores to win the game. Shamrocks beat player on the night was Cian McCann at his new position of centre back and he was ably assisted by Aoife Breen, Cormac Horgan, Gary Ronayne and the returning Gavin Boland.
U12 Football League
Courcey Rovers 2-11, Shamrocks 3-7
A heartbreaking defeat for Shamrocks in their first league game of the year. They played some tremendous football in Ballinspittle over the hour but Courceys snatched victory with a point with the last kick of the game. Shamrocks best players on the night were Brian Cusack, Mark Jordan, John Hurley, Alan McCarthy and David Spillane.
Week ended – 15th April 2002
Junior Football Championship
Courcey Rovers 2-13, Shamrocks 2-7
Shamrocks pushed Courceys until the 55th minute at Ballygarvan last Saturday night before getting swamped in the last few minutes. Courceys scored 1-3 in those last few minutes and it had looked likely up to that point as Shamrocks determined effort was being worn down all the time by the men from Ballinspittle. The game got off to a flyer of a start with 3 early goals, two of them to Shamrocks, Alan Aherne and Stephen O’Neills effort from the penalty spot being separated by a Courceys goal. Shamrocks were loosing their early dominance as half time approached; Courceys were doing just enough to keep within 2 points all the time. Shamrocks started the second half much better and scored 2 quick points to go 3 ahead. But one always felt that Courceys would get the upper hand eventually, and so it was. They got on top around the middle of the field and their forwards began to pick off the scores. It was a decent enough performance from Shamrocks who will play in the losers round sometime in June. They were best served on the night by Dick Andrews (until he got injured), Michael Prout who saw off a succession of opponents at centre back, and miracle man Brian Sweeney. Team: P.Cusack, D.Sheehan, C.O’Mahony, C.Brady, C.O’Neill, M.Prout, D.Andrews, I.Breen, S.Andrews, J.Shanahan, B.Sweeney, A.Geary, S.O’Neill, A.Aherne, D.Collins. Subs used – M.Kidney, B.Hickey, C.Tierney, D.McCann.
U16 Football League
Shamrocks 4-7, Courcey’s 1-9
10/4 – A good victory for a depleted Shamrocks over Courceys on Wednesday night. Shamrocks won this game inside the first 15 minutes after which they were 2-3 to 0-0 ahead, Gavin Rogers with the two goals. Courceys were caught cold in this period and in fairness to them, they took over around the middle of the field and picked off some points before half time. Simon McGarry in goal made some good saves in that half. Half time score 2-3 to 0-4 for Shamrocks. The second half was more even with keeping Courceys at bay, replying with a point to every Courceys point. Stephen Dunne’s goal stretcehed the lead to 8 points, Courceys came back with a goal straight away but Darren Kirwan’s penalty more or less wrapped it up. Donal McAuliffe, Niall Tuohy, Darren Kirwan, Gavin Rogers, David Hayes and Stephen Jones played well.
City/Carrigdhoun Football League – 14/4
Douglas 0-4, Shamrocks 3-5
A good win against a strong Douglas second fifteen keeps Shamrocks on course for the knockout stages of the league. The game was more or less over at half time as Shamrocks led 2-3 to 0-1 and it could have been a lot more only for some sloppy shooting. Stephen Carroll scored 2-1 from half forward, while Joseph Shanahan finished with 1-2, his goal a typical solo effort. The Shamrocks half back line of Bourke, O’Neill and Tuohy were well on top while Eoghan O’Rahilly played well also at midfield, as did Eoin O?Mahony and Tadhg Forde in the forwards.
U12 Football League – 15/4
Ballygarvan 0-5 , Shamrocks 6-10
Two early goals set up Shamrocks for a comfortable win at Ballygarvan. Philip Brady (2-6), Arron Hickey, Johnathon Tuohy and Mickey O’Neill were the main Shamrocks scorers while Mark Jordan and Thomas Pierce showed up well.
Week ended – 22nd April 2002
Junior Hurling Season begins
Shamrocks 0-6, Na Piarsaigh 2-15
Shamrocks played two hurling matches in the last week. Inniscarra made the trip to Shanbally on a wet Friday night and left with a two point win. Two nights previous, the gulf in class was all to evident in Shamrocks first City League game. Na Piarsaigh were very strong on the night while Shamrocks showed that there’s lots of work to be done on the training ground yet. They hadnt much preparation done for this one and one knew after 10 minutes that Piarsaighs were going to win. Every clearance from defence found one of their own men and they started picking off the points easily. Half-time score was 0-10 to 0-3. The second half was a bit more evenly contested but the visitors to Shanbally still picked off their scores to run out comfortable winners. Declan Sheehan, Conor Tierney, Mickey Prout, Senan Andrews and sub Stephen O’Reilly tried hard on the night.
U16 Football League
Ballygarvan 1-10, Shamrocks 2-8
Shamrocks came away from Ballygarvan with a victory which could easily have been a defeat on the night. The fact was that Ballygarvan outplayed Shamrocks for long periods, their ball retention excellent, but their shooting let them down at times. Its surely a good sign for Shamrocks that they didnt play well on the night yet still managed to sneak a win. The selectors made some positional switches throughout the game and these certainly worked. Donal McAulliffe to full-back, Simon McGarry to centre-back, David Tuohy to half-back, Terence O’Sullivan to midfield, David Hayes to centre forward and the introduction of Stephen Jones to corner forward when he scored a vital point chief amoungst them. Hayes and Ronan O’Sullivan were responsiblke for the Shamrocks goals and Darren Kirwan was very accurate from frees.
U14 Football League – 19/4
Tracton were comfortable winners in the end. Again, Shamrocks played well in the first half but some early goals in the second half for Tracton knocked the stuffing out of the Shamrocks challenge. In fairness to the players, they are improving slightly from week to week. On the night, Shamrocks best players were Aoife Breen, Cian McCann, Philip Brady, Owen Hickey and Nathan Kirwan.
U12 Football League – 22/4
Shamrocks dominated from start to finish and ran up a big total againstDouglas 4 last Monday night. There was never much doubt about the outcome of this one and most of the Shamrocks scoring was done by Philip Brady (2-6), Stephen Downey with 2 goals, Michael O’Neill and Mark Jordan, while John Horgan, Roisin Breen, Colin Murphy and Alan McCarthy played well.
Week ended – 29th April 2002
U16 Football
Shamrocks 0-3, Tracton 3-10
Shamrocks capitulated completely to Tracton’s supremacy in this league game which, believe it or not, would have put Shamrocks top of the table. A lack of consistancy is this teams problem, playing well one week and well below par the next. It was certainly the latter in this one. Shamrocks fell asleep for 2 minutes midway through the first half allowing Tracton to score a massive 2-3 in that time. That was the end of the game effectively. A much better second half performance was called for but in fact it got worse. Shamrocks didn’t score in this time while Tracton piled on the agony. Only David Bourke and Niall Tuohy came out of this game with their reputations intact.
Junior B Hurlers
Shamrocks 2-9, Carrigaline 0-10
On Tuesday night in the fading light, Shamrocks and Carrigaline served up a typically lively encounter in the SE B League and Shamrocks came out winners by five points. It was the two goals from Darragh Collins and Alan Aherne just after half time which gave Shamrocks the cushion which they more or less kept until the end. Other than that it was even enough throughout the 60 minutes.
U21 Football Championship Semi’s
Shamrocks 3-11, Carigaline 1-4
Shamrocks comfortably defeated Carrigalines second team in the B semi-final last Saturday night to set up a meeting with Ballymartle this Saturday night. Shamrocks led 3-2 to 0-3 at half time, Joseph Shanahan with two goals and Stephen O’Neill with the other. A good team performance overall, Shamrocks best players were Chris O’Neill, Colin O’Mahony and David Bourke.
U12 Football League – 29/4
Douglas 2-5, Shamrocks 6-8 – Tracton 2-10, Shamrocks 4-4
A win in atrocious conditions at Douglas on Saturday was followed by a hard earned draw at Minane Bridge on Monday evening. Brian Cusack, John Horgan, Thomas Pierce, Darragh O’Sullivan, Johnathan Tuohy, Philip Brady, Stephen Downey and Steven Hurley have been showing up well for the greens.
Week ended – 6th May 2002
Junior Hurling
Bishopstown 2-8, Shamrocks 2-8
Both teams must be commended for serving up a thriller in Bishopstown last week. This match was played in terrible conditions, with the ‘brown’ ball proving hard to find, especially in the fading light. It was tough going all through with scores hard to come by. Bishopstown, who played a number of their Intermediate team (in preperation for their Championship this weekend) led at half time by 1-2 to 0-3. The second half was a bit more free flowing with Shamrocks coming back from a goal down twice to draw. Stephen O’Neill’s frees, Senan Andrews and Darragh Collins accounted for most of the Shamrocks points while Stephen O’Reilly and anybody in the scrum in front of the goal scored the goals.
U16 B Football League – 1/5
Carrigaline 3-6, Shamrocks 3-3
Shamrocks are ruled out of qualifying for the knockout stages of the league after this 3 point defeat. While Shamrocks lost this one narrowly, it was a much improved performance from the previous week and the lads must take the credit for it. This will be an interesting championship meeting later on in the summer between these two teams. On the night, Oisín Boland, Sean Bourke, Donal McAulliffe and Terence O’Sullivan were Shamrocks beat players, while Ronan O’Sullivan, Terence O’Sullivan and Cian O’Neill scored the Shamrocks goals. Ronan O’Sullivan was again unlucky with one or two goalbound efforts that were, not for the first time this season, attracted to the crossbar.
U12 Football League – 6/8
Valley Rovers 2-4, Shamrocks 4-8
Shamrocks were in control against a youthful Rovers side at Innishannon on Monday night. Some early Philip Brady goals set them up for the victory, while Stephen Hurley, Michael O’Neill and Roisin Breen showed up well.
U10 Football Blitz – 6/8
Shamrocks beat Tracton and had narrow defeats at Carriagline and Crosshaven on Monday evening. Dara O’Sullivan, Johnathon, Daniel Breen, Laura McCarthy and Cathal Kidney showed up well.
Week ended – 13th May 2002
U12 Football Semi – 13/5
Shamrocks 5-11, Carrigaline 1-5
Shamrocks played Carrigalines second team twice last weekend, winning both games comfortably. The first game was the last round of the league, while the second one, featured here, was the semi final of the same competition. It was played in Brinny, and featured Philip Brady scoring 2-6 for the second successive game, Johnathan Tuohy (2-0), Stephen Hurley (1-0) and Mark Jordan (0-3). Brian Cusack in goal, Roisin Breen, John Horgan, David Spillane and Stephen Downey played well for Shamrocks in both games.
U14 Football Semi – 12/5
Carrigaline 5-6, Shamrocks 0-6
This game was played in artrocious conditions last weekend and resulted in Carrigaline getting the vital goals at vital times to win the game handily enough. It was even enough early on, but Carrigalines three quick goals in the second half finished off Shamrocks brave effort.
Junior Hurling – 7/5
Courcey Rovers 2-10, Shamrocks 0-6
A disappointing performance from Shamrocks under the darkening skies of Ballinspittle last week. Apart from the opening 20 minutes and the first 10 minutes of the second half, Shamrocks played second fiddle to a Courceys team that played some nice hurling at times. Stephen O’Neill, Andrew O’Neill, Colin O’Sullivan and Darragh Collins got the Shamrocks scores while Colin Brady and Declan Sheehan were the only Shamrocks players to perform on the wet night.
Non Exam Minor Leagues
Shamrocks have entered the 12-a-side leagues in both hurling and football and played a game in both in the last week. On Tuesday night,. they started the football league with a win over Aghabollogue on a huge pitch in Coachford. Chris O’Neill was top scorer with 1-4, while Senan Andrews got 1-1. On Saturday night, a rusty hurling team played their first hurling match and had to settle for second best to Ballinascarthy, who won by 4-8 to 2-5. Eventhough the visitors to Shanbally had more better players throughout their team, Shamrocks tried hard till the very end with Dave Bourke top scorer with 1-2. Ciaran Fitzpatrick scored the other Shamrocks goal.
U16 B Football League – 8/5
Shamrocks 0-14, Valley Rovers 2-10
A heart breaking defeat for Shamrocks was compensated for the fact that they took part in a superb game of high scoring football. Shamrocks should have won this game but Valley Rovers 2 goals midway through the second half swung the game in their favour. Shamrocks first half performance was their best of the season. From goalkeeper Eanna Cole, to full-backs Sergui Leonov from Russia, Paul Stuart, Oisin Boland, Terence O’Sullivan and Darren Kirwan at midfield and David Hayes at centre forward, Shamrocks had some tremendous displays. Some of the Shamrocks scores were of the highest quality, particularly Darren Kirwan, Terence O’Sullivan, Dave Hayes, Ronan O’Sullivan and Cian O’Neill’s points. Valley Rovers were on the back foot throughout, but managed to stay within 3 points at half time. Shamrocks tagged on 3 points within five minutes of the restart to go 6 points in front. But then Valley Rovers struck for a sloppy goal and all of a sudden Shamrocks couldnt win a kickout. Another goal and a few points later, Valleys were in front by 3. Shamrocks laid seige to the Rovers goal in search of the dramatic winner but the visitors just about held out. Well done to both teams on a brilliant game of exciting football. Shamrocks can go into this championship with confidence in September after this encouraging display. They get a break now until after the exams.
U12 Football League- 6/5
Valley Rovers 2-4, Shamrocks 4-8
Shamrocks were in control against a youthful Rovers side at Innishannon on Monday night. Some early Philip Brady goals set them up for the victory, while Stephen Hurley, Michael O’Neill and Roisin Breen showed up well.
Week ended – 20th May 2002
Junior Hurling – 14/5
St Finbarrs 2-15, Shamrocks 1-8
In preperation for this Saturday nights first round championship game against Kinsale, Shamrocks played two games in the City League this week. Firstly, a 2-15 to 1-10 loss to St.Finbarrs. Compared to the week before, this was a much improved performance from a weakened Shamrocks team. The ‘Barrs played with the wind in the first half and with the help of their deadly free taker led 2-10 to 1-4 at half time, Patrick Andrews responsible for 1-1 of the Shamrocks total. The second half saw Shamrocks come more into it with the wind and scored 5 quick points after the restart to come right back into the game. However, a tired Shamrocks midfield, who had dominated up to that point, faded from the game and St.Finbarrs finished up matters with a couple of points.
Non Exam Minor Leagues
On Tuesday in Football, Shamrocks scored a last minute goal to defeat a strong Macroom team, to continue their unbeaten run in football. This was a great team display all through, final score 2-8 to 1-10.
U21 B Football Championship Final – 18/5
Shamrocks 3-8, Ballymartle 2-7
Shamrocks captured the B title for the first time in a few years, when they beat a gallant Ballymartle side at a wet Ballygarvan last Saturday night. Shamrocks were pushed all the way and the result was in doubt up until Senain Collins scored the decisive third Shamrocks goal to put them 6 points ahead with only 5 minutes remaining. The first half was even enough with Shamrocks, having played with the breeze, only leading by 2 points. Barry Mulqueen and Eoin O’Mahony after a great team movement, scored the Shamrocks goals while Stephen O’Neill from frees was responsible for most of the Shamrocks points. Half time 2-4 to 2-2. The players responded to the half time rollicking by playing better football in the second half, the half back lines and midfield coming more into the game. Both teams tipped away with points before Collins late effort, again after a great move, effectively finished off the game. Team – S.McGarry, D.Stuart, C.Brady, C.O’Neill, S.Andrews, D.Bourke, M.Prout, C.O’Mahony, S.Collins, J.Shanahan, E.O’Mahony, S.O’Neill, B.Mulqueen. Subs used – N.Hayes.
U12 Football Final – 20/5
Courcey Rovers 6-6, Shamrocks 2-9
Shamrocks made the long journey to Ballinspittle last week and in the end were beaten by a fine Courceys team. The first half was evenly contested with the locals leading at half time by 1 point. Rovers more all round ability was evident in the second half. The game was watched by as big a crowd seen at any underage game in recent times.
Week ended – 3rd June 2002
Junior Football – 2/6
Ballygarvan 2-12, Shamrocks 4-7
Shamrocks warmed up for this Fridays nights championship do or die championship clash with Kinsale with a morale boosting win over Ballygarvan last Sunday morning. This was a good team performance overall. Shamrocks found themselves a point down at half time but managed to reverse that deficit in the second half. Joe Shanahan got 1-3, and the 2 Hickey brothers Mark and Bernard, were responsible for the other 3 Shamrocks goals. Team: P.Cusack, D.Sheehan, A.Aherne, C.Brady, D.Roche, I.Breen, C.O’Neill, B.Sweeney, M.Prout, C.Tierney, C.O’Mahony, B.Hickey, S.O’Neill, M.Hickey, J.Shanahan. Sub used M.Fitzgerald.
U12 Hurling – 3/6
Three games were played in the last week and defeat was avoided in all games. The closest and most exciting game was against Ballygarvan and it ended in a draw, Ballygarvan 0-10, Shamrocks 2-4. The defence was the best part of the Shamrocks display here and Stephen Hurley, John Horgan, Stephen Downey, Roisin Breen and Mark Jordan played well for Shamrocks on the night. Philip Brady scored 1-1 in the last few minutes to earn Shamrocks the draw. Shamrocks then had a comfortable win against Crosshaven last Saturday, 2-19 to 1-2. The feature here was Michael O’Neills incredible haul of 0-14, mostly from play. Jon Tuohy (2 goals), Darragh O’Sullivan and Alan McCarthy were the feature players for the greens in this one. Monday night, Douglas 4 were defeated easily in Shanbally. Philip Brady (5-3), Johnathan Tuohy (5 goals), Aaron Hickey (1 goal), Brian Cusack (1 goal) and Jordan Wells were the stars for Shamrocks. So, a good start to the hurling season from the lads.
Non Exam Minor Leagues
Two victories in the last week for the lads who alternate between football and hurling every 4 days. First the football. Shamrocks made the long trip to close toBaltimore to play Ilen Rovers and left with the points after rarely being troubled. Shamrocks led 1-6 to 1-4 at half time after having played into the strong wind and in fact, Ilen Rovers didnt score in the second half while Shamrocks scored at will. Joe Shanahan (1-6) and Tadhg Forde (0-4) were top scorers while Kieran McGarry in goal, Nicky Hayes, Stephen O’Reilly and Niall Tuohy (1-0) played well. Next the hurling on Saturday. Shamrocks lost a County final 2 years ago to Clonakilty at U16 level. This was revenge. Shamrocks reversed proceedings 5-5 to 2-11. Dave Bourke, playing in the 2 man full forward line, was the star of the show, scoring 3-2, all but a point coming from play. Barry Mulqueen and Joe Shanahan scored the other goals.
Week ended – 10th June 2002
Junior Football Championship – 7/6
Kinsale 2-14, Shamrocks 1-4
Shamrocks bowed out tamely of the championship in Camden last Fiday night. Make no mistake about this score – Shamrocks were hammered. Kinsale improved from their last performance while Shamrocks did the opposite. This explains the 12 point difference at the end. Kinsale were on top in every sector of the pitch and taught the young Shamrocks team a footballing lesson. Alan Aherne was the only Shamrocks player to come out of the game with any credit and this on the back of an excellent second half. The half time score was 2-6 to 1-3, Michael Kidney with the goal, the only bright bit of play really from Shamrocks. However, Kinsale just went up the field to score 2 quick goals to finish off Shamrocks. The half-time talk stressed the need to get some early scores. But it was Kinsale who got them to pull right away. In fact, Shamrocks didnt score in the second half until 2 minutes from the end. Team: M.Fitzgerald, C.O’Mahony, A.Aherne, C.Brady, D.Sheehan, I.Breen, C.O’Neill, M.Prout, B.Sweeney, B.Hickey, M.Kidney, S.Andrews, S.O’Neill, D.Collins, J.Shanahan. Sub used – C.Tierney.
Junior Hurling League – 9/6
Passage 3-10, Shamrocks 1-7
Sundays City league game against Passage was used as preperation for the upcoming championship game against Ballymartle. Passage deserveadly won on a scoreline of 3-10 to 1-7. Shamrocks were just trying out some new players in new, unfamiliar positions and were always going to lose this game. They started brightly with Willie Ashman playing well at centre-back but then Passage got scome scores while playing against the gale force wind. Half time was 1-5 to 0-4 to Passage. Passage dominated most of the second half, Shamrocks only came back into it near the end when they played some better hurling. Chris O’Neill, Pat O’Sullivan and Bernard Hickey tried hard for Shamrocks.
U12 Hurling – 10/6
Kinsale 2-5, Shamrocks 2-2
No report received.
U14 Hurling – 7/6
The U14 hurlers had a one sided victory over Crosshaven last Friday night in Shanbally, with Stephen Twomey the outstanding player on the field at centre back. Stephen also played centre back for Carrigdhoun U14 hurlers who won the Inter-divisional tournament over the weekend and played well by all accounts. Also well done to John ‘Socket’ Twomey who helped out with the preparation of the team.
Non Exam Minor Leagues
The footballers continued their unbeaten run on Tuesday night with a high scoring win against Glanmire, 6-9 to 3-4. A strange game in many ways. Shamrocks led by 3-2 to 0-4 at half time having played against the wind but should have been so much farther in front against a Glanmire team who werent on the same level as Shamrocks. The selectors gave the lads a bit of a toungue lashing at half time and it worked. They added a lot more scores to lead by 5-8 to 0-4 but then 1. brought on all their subs and 2. Conceded 3 goals in as many minutes to give Glanmire hope. Order was soon restored however and the ball spent the rest of the game at the other end.
Week ended – 17th June 2002
Junior Hurling Championship – 15/6
Ballymartle 3-11, Shamrocks 2-9
Even though a strong Ballymartle junior team beat Shamrocks in the opening game of the Round Robin by 5 points here, this was an encouraging performance from the men in green. Fielding a young and depleted team, they made a huge effort, especially in the second half, when they found themselves 9 points down, but they ran out of time in the end. The game was played in the worst possible conditions – a constant downpour throughout – and both teams are to be commended on a clean, high scoring game of hurling. Ten minutes in and Ballymartle led 1-3 to 0-0 and a rout looked on. But inspired by captain Finny O’Flaherty at full-back, a strong half-back line and Darragh Collins at half-forward, Shamrocks came more into the game and the half time score stood at 2-6 to 0-5, the Ballymartle goal a sideline cut which made its way to the back of the net. The lads settled down in the second half (after conceding another goal within the first minute) and played some good hurling in this period. Colin O’Sullivan was back on form, both in play and from frees and he scored both Shamrocks goals. He played a big part in the Shamrocks comeback. Ballymartle kept Shamrocks at arms length on the scoreboard, replying with a score to every Shamrocks score. They were put to the pin of their collar by a satisfying Shamrocks display under the circumstances. On that Shamrocks side, apart form the players mentioned above, young Senan Andrews at half back gave a brilliant performance, time and time again soloing the ball out of danger. Alongside him, Darren Roche and another U17, Stephen O’Reilly, Pat O’Sullivan and Willie Ashman had their moments. Team : T.O?Sullivan, M.Kidney, F.O’Flaherty, D.Sheehan, S.Andrews, D.Roche, S.O’Reilly, P.O’Sullivan, C.O’Neill, B.Hickey, A.Aherne, C.O’Sullivan, D.Collins, W.Ashman, B.Beale. Sub used – J.O’Sullivan.
Non Exam Leagues
A few games have been played in the last week or so. Bantry Blues made the long trip to Shanbally but Shamrocks made sure it was in vain by sending them packing on a scoreline of 3-6 to 0-9. However, this was a lethargic Shamrocks display. It was only when Joe Shanahan put the ball in the Bantry net 5 minutes from thime could Shamrocks breathe a sigh of relief. Senan Andrews scored the other 2 Shamrocks goals. In hurling, on Monday night, an accomplished Barryroe outfit made the trip to Shanbally worthwhile after a 2-13 to 1-10 victory. However, this was a close game all through and could easily have gone the other way. Shamrocks were behind at half time, 1-8 to 0-6; however, they made a big effort in the second half, with Senan Andrews scoring 1-3 in that time, and were searching for the equalising goal in injury time when Barryroe broke for the killer goal. Barryroe qualified for the final as a result of this victory.
Week ended – 24th June 2002
Junior Hurling League – 19/6
Shamrocks 1-9, Glen Rovers 4-11
Shamrocks gave a good enough account of themselves against City champions, Glen Rovers, who won 4-11 to 1-9 last Monday week. The difference here were the goals – three of the Glens goals were of the very soft variety. Otherwise, Shamrocks battled hard against more skillful opponents and were unlucky with some goal attempts, especially in the first half. Ken Tierney was the Shamrocks goal scorer, scoring with a fabulous ground shot, which had the Glen goalkeeper rooted to the spot. They plugged away in the second half after the 4 goals were scored without ever threatening to make a significant comeback.
Non Exam Minor Leagues – 21/6
A couple of games have been played in the last week. In hurling on Thursday, Tracton were the opponents and on yet another wet night, a Shamrocks team short a number of regulars went down to a flurry of late Tracton points, after a battling display, a result which could have gone either way with 10 minutes to go. Final Score 0-10 to 1-4 for Tracton. Whatever about the hurling, Shamrocks have qualified for the final in the football group. This was after drawing with Kilmurry away on the Tuesday. The boys need a rest at this stage and will get it as the final, probably against a strong Macroom team (who Shamrocks beat by 1 point earlier), wont be held for a week or two.
U12 Hurling – 22/6
Shamrocks 4-8, Douglas3 2-6
Shamrocks ran out 8 point winners on the day, 4-8 to 2-6. Philip Brady was top scorer with 0-7, while Brian Cusack, Stephen Downey, Alan McCarthy and Jonathan Tuohy played well.
U14 Hurling – 21/6
Shamrocks 0-3, Carrigaline 2 1-1
No report received.
Week ended – 19th Aug 2002
City Junior Hurling League – 19/8
Douglas 0-14, Shamrocks 2-10
Shamrocks championship hurling season may be over but if this game is anything to go by, there is still a bit of life left in the season yet. This was a game Shamrocks went up to lose and things were going according to plan at half time, Douglas 0-10, Shamrocks 0-4. Michael Prout, playing in goal due to a slight injury, made two wonderful saves in that first half to keep Shamrocks within reasonable distance of the home team. Again both teams went through the motions in the first 10 minutes of the second half and the gap was the same. Whatever happened (we dont know), somehow The United Nations of Shamrocks got the bit between their teeth all over the field. They started to finally get some scores from play through Patrick Andrews, Colin O’Sullivan, Andrew O’Neill and Rob Lannon smashed one to the net. Still the vagabonds were a point down when good old Ken Coveney, using all his height and speed, popped up with his yearly rasper to win the game. It was a most welcome result for the team which featured some of the following returning players from hibernation – Robert Lannon from Rotterdam (first game in a year), ‘The Quiet Man’ Pa Andrews, returning from the Conamara Gaeltacht, Darcy (first game in 21 years), the fisherman from Alaska, Jamie ‘Mackey’ McCarthy (first game in 8 years) and a few others who hadnt played in a few months. Along side these, Finny O’Flaherty, Brian Beale, Conor Tierney, Darren Roche, Stephen O’Reilly, Brian Sweeney, Bernard Hickey and Dick Andrews were other stars on the night.
Minor A Football Championship – 20/6
Shamrocks 1-13, Ballinhassig 1-4
Shamrocks had a merited victory over a spirited Ballinhassig side on Tue night. Seanan Collins first half goal plus points from Senan Andrews, Joe Shanahan (0-9) and Chris O’Neill were responsible for the scoring side of things while the defence as a whole played well. Ballinhassig certainly didn’t lie down without a fight, although their goal came from the last kick of the game. Shamrocks may well end up playing Ballinhassig in the semi final as they are favourites to come out of the losers group.
Week ended – 26th Aug 2002
Minor A Football Championship – 20/8
Shamrocks 1-13, Ballinhassig 1-4
Shamrocks are into the semi-final after this nine points victory over Ballinhassig at Ballygarvan last week. After some early scores from both teams, Shamrocks pulled away coning up to half time and opened up that nine points margin, a margin they were to keep to the end. Joe Shanahan, Senan Andrews and Chris O’Neill kicked the Shamrocks points while Seanán Collins goal midway through the first half was the launching pad for the victory. Team: K.McGarry, D.Tuohy, D.Stuart, N.Hayes, D.Bourke, C.O’Neill, D.O’Neill, S.Andrews, T.O’Sullivan, B.Mulqueen, J.Shanahan, E.O’Mahony, S.Collins, S.Carroll, T.Forde. subs used: S.O’Reilly, E.O’Rahilly, R.McCarthy, N.Tuohy, O.Boland
Shamrocks went on to beat Ballinhassig by 6 points.
Week ended – 20th Oct 2002
Minor B County Hurling Championship – 20/10
Shamrocks 2-7, Aghada 1-10
Shamrocks very nearly pulled off a major shock against fancied Aghada at wet and windyBlarney. It was a miracle that this game went ahead at all as the conditions were appalling. Playing with the wind and with Aghada having no answer to Shamrocks on-form full forward Joseph Shanahan, Shamrocks led 1-7 to 0-2 at half time, Shanahan scoring 5 wonderful points from play. David Bourke scrambled an early goal. To add further impetus after the break, Seanan Collins struck a 21 to the net and Shamrocks were in with a real chance here. But Aghada started firing after this and chipped away at the lead until they got the equaliser with the last puck of the game. Team: T.O’Sullivan, R.Brien, T,Forde, S.O’Reilly, D.O’Neill, S.Andrews, N.Hayes, C.O’Neill, S.Collins, B.Mulqueen, C.Fitzpatrick, E.O’Rahilly, D.Bourke, J.Shanahan, S.McGarry.
Week ended – 26th Oct 2002
Minor B County Hurling Championship Semi Final- 26/10
Shamrocks 0-3, Aghada 4-11
One suspected that Shamrocks lost their chance to shock Aghada the previous week in the drawn game and this was clearly evident in the replay in yet more driving rain at Brinny. Aghada made no mistake this time and apart from the first 15 minutes when things were pretty even, when Shamrocks saw a couple of goal chances go astray, they were well on top. Shamrocks didnt score in the second half, largely due to the fact that they started going for goals from the off. Nothing much really went right on the day while Aghada had all their big guns on top form. Chris O’Neill was Shamrocks best player on the day. Team: T.O’Sullivan, R.Brien, T,Forde, S.O’Reilly, D.O’Neill, S.Andrews, N.Hayes, C.O’Neill, S.Collins, B.Mulqueen, C.Fitzpatrick, E.O’Rahilly, D.Bourke, J.Shanahan, S.McGarry. Subs D.Stuart.
Week ended – 3rd Nov 2002
Minor A Football Championship Final – 3/11
Carrigaline 0-8, Shamrocks 0-7
This was absolute heartbrake for a Shamrocks team who met the formidable Carrigaline challenge head on with a display of real guts and character but who suffered defeat in the worst possible manner – a last minute point having led for the entire game up till then. Credit to both teams: the huge crowd was treated to a brilliant, exciting game of November football. It was just a pity that somebody had to loose. Shamrocks had the wind advantage in the first half and after a few opening scores from both side, they went on to dominate the rest of the half, pinning back Carrigaline for long periods. One or two goal chances went abegging along the way which could have changed things entirely. The second half was always going to be about containment and an early point from Shanahan opened the gap to 4 points. From here on it was backs to the wall stuff as Carrigaline got on top at midfield and poured forward in search of scores. They werent forthcoming as much as expected and for a while it looked as if Shamrocks might hold on for a famous win. But Carrigaline scored two points in the last minutes to edge ahead. Shamrocks made one last drive forward into the wind but a point attempt came up short and the cup was Carrigalines. While the disappointment was acute amoungst Shamrocks players, mentors and supporters, it is worth remembering Shamrocks got hammered by the same opposition 2 years ago in the U16 final. The huge gap that existed is now gone and a lot of the team are underage again next year. Team: S.McGarry, D.Tuohy, D.Stuart, D.O’Neill, D.Bourke, C.O’Neill, S.O’Reilly, T.O’Sullivan, N.Hayes, S.Andrews, E.O’Mahony, S.Collins, S.Carroll, S.Carroll, J.Shanahan, T.Forde.
Week ended – 9th Nov 2002
Carrigdhoun/City Minor B Hurling League Final – 9/11
Shamrocks 5-7, Whitechurch 3-11
After suffering much heartbreak in the 3 previous weekends, this was a fantastic victory for Shamrocks over the city champions at Ballinlough. This game doubled up as a County League Quarter final as well so the victory was all the sweeter. With only one training session put in the night before the match and going into the match with a host of injuries, this was a tall order for Shamrocks. But they rose to the occasion and their ability to get goals at crucial stages was the winning of the game for Shamrocks, Chris O’Neill, Barry Mulqueen and David Bourke (3-1) contributing.
Seanan Collins scored the frees and Ciaran Fitzpatrick was consistent throughout. The new midfield partnership of Terence O’Sullivan and Stephen O’Reilly was a great success with O’Sullivans striking in the wet in particular a feature towards the end when Shamrocks were under much pressure. Stand in keeper Joe Shanahan cleared his lines effictively as did Tadhg Fordy, Dave O’Neill, Rory Brien, Nicky Hayes and a back on form Senan Andrews.
Week ended – 20th Dec 2002
Carrigdhoun/City Minor A Football League Semi Final – 1/12
Valley Rovers 1-6, Shamrocks 0-3
A most disappointing end to the playing year for Shamrocks as Valleys qualified for the Final of this competition. The simple fact, as one can see from the scoreline, was the poor return from the forwards. Only one score came from play while Valleys had built up a 5 point lead at half time, having played with the wind. Shamrocks attacked with the wind, but didnt really have the ability to prise open the Valleys defence. Again, the Shamrocks backs played well on the day.
Underage Get Togother – 30/11
There was a very enjoyable get together for the U12’s, U10’s and U8’s on Saturday November 30 at the track. Each group of players played a game amongst each other on the bottom field and as one would expect from these age groups, they didnt mind the heavy conditions one bit. Afterwards, they went into the clubhouse for food and refreshments. An enjoyable day was had by everyone in recognition of their efforts during the year on the field of play, and lets hope we’ll see the same players and more out next year representing Shamrocks. Well done to chairperson Pat Tuohy and his hard working committee for their efforts and to everyone who showed up on the day.
