Week ended – 5th January 04
Puc Fada
The first annual Shamrocks Poc Fada competition was held on last Sunday morning from the Oratory in Ring to Shanbally cross. Over 70 people took part in teams of 4 and this was a great number considering it was our first time running such an event. Suffice to say, the full repertoire (or lack of it) of shots were on display that morning, from young and old, boys and girls etc. Darren Dineen was leading with 29 shots until the boys from Monkstown showed up, Patrick and Senan Andrews and Colin O’Sullivan. They along with Stephen O’Reilly went one better with 28 so there was a 4 way play off, one to decide the overall mens category and one for the 2 Minor players. Colin O’Sullivan, with one opening of his broad shoulders won the mens with Patrick Andrews second, while Senan Andrews beat Stephen O’Reilly into second for the Minor. John ‘Stoney’ Bourke beat Mick Brennan in a playoff for the over 50 mens, while the stylist himself, Pat Q, won the over 40 mens, with Pat Mac 2nd. Philip Brady won the U14 boys with Michael Dennehy 2nd, while on the ladies front, Marie Fogarty won the U18 with Grace Mulqueen 2nd, with Ann-Marie Collins winning the adult section with Deirdre Prout 2nd . Afterwards, in the Shamrocks Bar, Proprietors Mark Hickey and John Dineen presented overall winner O’Sullivan with the perpetual trophy which they kindly donated. Well done to everyone on what was a fun day out for all. One ball out of 72 was lost – its up to ye to figure out who the culprit was!
Week ended – 26th January 2004
Junior AGM – 13/1
The 106th Annual General Meeting of the club took place on Tuesday 13th January in the Grace McCarthy room in the clubhouse at Shanbally. The large attendance, which encouragingly included many young players, paid their respects to our late President, Florrie McCarthy, who died recently. The meeting elected a new president in Mr Tom Livesey. Tom has been an outstanding and dedicated Shamrock all hi life and his family have a proud tradition going back to the foundation of our proud club in 1898. His father Tom and his Uncle Sam played for Shanbally NS in the first ever County School Shield Final in 1903 against Douglas Rd School. Tom played Hurling and Football for many years with the club. He would never miss a game and when he first worked in Dublin he would travel home any weekend the club had a match. He always wore the Shamrocks jersey with great pride. In later years, long after his retirement, he ‘fell in’ one night in a Junior B Football game to play alongside his son Jim, rather than see the club concede victory. Tom took a great interest in administration from an early age. He held many positions in the club and acted as Club Delegate to the SE and County Boards, as well as representing the SE Juvenile and Junior Boards at County level. He was a long serving and prominent referee in the division and on big match days in Pairc Ui Chaoimh, Tom was a steward. He was the last Treasurer of the old County Schools Shield Board. Nothing gave him greater pleasure than to see the Shamrocks pitch filled with players playing Hurling and Football. Tom is a most deserving nominee for the post of President and the meeting ensured that he will hold the honour for life.
Vice Presidents
The following people were ratified as Vice Presidents: Sean O’Sullivan, Fr. Sylvester OFM, Barry O’Brien, Jimmy Harding, Joe O’Driscoll, Donal O’Connor NT, Batt Cooney, Neally O’Mahony, Ned Brennan, Peig McCarthy, Richard Palmer, Jer Coveney, Kathleen OBrien, Kathleen OFlynn NT, Breda Andrews, Fr. John Cotter PP, Fr. Pat McCarthy, Donal Brady, Nell Cusack, Kathleen Collins, Comdt. Kevin Barry, Michael Brennan, Charlie Maye, Eily Carroll and Noreen Kind.
Officers – Chairman: John Twomey, Vice Chairman: Pat Tuohy, Hon. Secretary: Lorcan Aherne, Hon Treasurer: Helen Prout, Registrar: Finbarr O’Flaherty, PRO: Patrick Andrews, Board Delegates: Pat O’Neill and Bernard Hickey, Groundsman: Jimmy O’Neill, Hurling Manager: John Collins, Football Manager: Bernard Hickey, Minor/U21 Manager: Declan O’Neill, Executive Members: Michael Brennan and Mickey Prout.
Underage AGM – 22/1
The underage Section of the club held its AGM in the clubrooms on Thursday January 22nd. Pat Tuohy stepped down as Chairperson and his position was filled by John Twomey (Socket), while John Bourke position as Vice Chair has gone to Ollie McCann. All other positions remained the same as last year, that is Paddy Andrews as Secretary, Gretta Sweeney as Treasurer, Patrick Andrews as PRO and Paddy Andrews and Pat Tuohy as Board Delegates.
Selectors: U10 – D.Andrews, I.Breen, P.Cusack, J.Twomey, J.Herlihy, S.Andrews.
U12 – P.Tuohy, I.Breen, M.Kidney, M.Prout
U14 – P.McCarthy, D.Murphy, P.Cusack, A.Downey, J.Shanahan.
U16 – J. Ronayne, O.McCann, D.Murphy, A.Punch, J.Shanahan, P.Andrews (proxy)
Week ended – 9th Febuary 2004
Season starts with a point defeat – 8/2
Tracton 1-6, Shamrocks 1-5
Shamrocks lost their opening game of the 2004 season by the narrowest of margins at Minane on Sunday afternoon last. This was typical February football – hard, tough but fair exchanges with scoring opportunities at a premium. And even when they came, both sides were guilty of some glaring misses in front of the posts. All Shamrocks points came from the boot of Steven O’Neill, who looked very sharp in the corner. Tracton started much the better and were 4 points up after 20 minutes before Shamrocks came back into the game. They drew level coming up to half time and were the happier of then two teams at half time. But all the hard work previous to half time was wasted as Tracton scored 1-1 within a minute of the restart to leave them ahead 1-5 to 0-4. Shamrocks had to start all over again and in fairness took over mid way through the second half. Chris O’Neill scored a great goal and Shamrocks were level again. Tracton edged ahead by a point, both teams had a player sent off as the exchanges heated up but Shamrocks could never quite make up the deficit. Training continues this week on Tue and Thurs nights. Team: B.Mulqueen, C.Brady, P.Prout, K.Hegarty, D.Sheehan, C.O’Neill, D.Roche, M.Prout, S.Kelly, T.O’Sullivan, M.Hickey, A.Geary, S.O’Neill, D.Collins, D.Bourke. Subs used – C.Fitzpatrick, C.Tierney, B.Beale.
Week ended – 15th Febuary 2004
Another narrow defeat for A Footballers – 15/2
Shamrocks 0-12, Valley Rovers 0-13
For the second week running, a one point defeat was our A sides lot, at Shanbally last Sunday evening, the 15th. Shamrocks upped their game from last weeks defeat to Tracton but Rovers were strong on the day (fielding a number of Intermediates) and while we again had enough possession, Shamrocks shooting was poor. Team: B.Mulqueen, K.Hegarty, C.Brady, D.Sheehan, S.Andrews, C.O’Neill, D.Roche, N.Hayes, P.Prout, D.Bourke, S.Collins, S.O’Neill, B.Beale, J.Shanahan, S.O’Reilly.
Junior C F League – 15/02
Shamrocks 0-12, St.Finbarrs 1-8
Shamrocks are playing a team in the City C Grade League this year and started their campaign with a narrow victory at Shanbally last Sunday morning, the 15th. Many of the players on view will be determined to keep the pressure on the A Team and some performances were eye catching on the day. Players used: B.Mulqueen, D.Livingstone, I.Breen, P.O’Sullivan, D.Bourke, D.Stuart, D.O’Neill, S.O’Reilly, S.Jordan, R.Lannon, T.Carpenter, T.Forde, R.McCarthy, B.Beale and A.Geary.
Minor Football – 15/02
Shamrocks 2-5, St.Finbarrs 0-8
The Minor Footballers also opened their City account with a 3 point victory over the Barrs, also at Shanbally on Sunday 15th. A goal each from Eoin Hickey and Robert Hourihan proved decisive in this hard fought encounter. This was an encouraging display from the boys on duty as Shamrocks were missing some of their more prominent players. However, the remaining players showed tremendous spirit and determination. Players used: I.Murphy, D.Kirwan, S.Bourke, C.O’Shea, D.Hayes, C.McCann, N.Tuohy, R.Timmons, T.Barrett, O.Boland, S.Leonov, E.Hickey, R.Hourihan and C.O’Neill.
U21 Football
The u21 Footballers are playing Championship in less than 3 weeks so they’ve been busy getting their season up and running. To complete a busy weekend for the club on the playing front, a challenge game was arranged against Ballygarvan U21’s in Ballygarvan under their excellent new floodlights. Well done to them on their investment and foresight. We’ll be hearing more from our U21s in the next few weeks.
Week ended – 23th Febuary 2004
Poor display by Junior A’s – 22/2
Carrigaline 1-9, Shamrocks 1-5
With the motivation of requiring a win to stay in contention for league places, Shamrocks went out and turned in their worst display in 2 years against a scratch Carrigaline outfit on Sunday afternoon last. There lies a lot of work ahead judging by this display – it was a very frustrating day for the selectors who had to contend with both bad form and poor discipline. Still, its early doors in the season.
Minor Football – 22/04
Shamrocks 1-9, Sliabh Rua 1-6
A strong opening half from Shamrocks, which also saw them shoot an unbelievable 15 wides with wind advantage, ended with a 5 point advantage which was not a safe cushion with the elements to face in the second half. However, some sterling defensive work curtailed the best efforts of Sliabh Rua, who got no closer than 2 points, and Shamrocks deserved their victory. Darren Kirwan, Oisin Boland, Thomas Barrett, and David Hayes were outstanding on the morning but the team effort was also commendable.
Week ended – 7th March 2004
U21 A Football Championship – 6/3
Shamrocks 1-12, Valley Rovers 1-13 (aet)
This was a tremendous, rip roaring game of football played inn glorious weather and in the perfect spirit of sport in Shanbally. After a bright start by Shamrocks which saw them hit the post twice and gain only a point from a penalty, they left tournament favourites Valleys back into the game. Rovers led by 6 points at half time. After the break, Shamrocks began to gain the upper hand around the middle of the field and our forwards were beginning to pick of their scores, with the result that Shamrocks found themselves a point ahead with only a few minutes to go. A strong Rovers rally yielded the equalising point and put the game into extra time. This phase of the game was contested tooth and nail by two committed sides and they were still level at the changeover. The final phase of the game was no different but Valleys struck for the winning score almost on full time. The amazing up shot of this result is that Shamrocks have a bye to the semis on the weekend of Sunday March 21 where they have a very good chance of meeting the Rovers again, a game not to be missed judging by this one. Team: B.Mulqueen, S.Andrews, C.Brady, D.Tuohy, S.O’Reilly, M.Prout, D.Bourke, C.O’Neill and H.Hayes, T.O’Sullivan, J.Shanahan, S.O’Neill, S.Collins, E.O’Mahony and O.Boland. Sub used D.Stuart and D.Hayes.
Shanbally School Success
Congrats to Shanbally NS who last week won the South East Schools Indoor Blitz in Roco College. Under coaches Anne Marie Barry and Kathleen Tuohy, the Shanbally girls played some excellent hurling to win the shield. They beat Dunderrow NS and Carrigaline Girls School in the league section and played the semi final against neighbours Ringaskiddy NS, whom they beat 4-0. In a marvellous final, the girls beat Summercove NS (near Kinsale) 3-2 with many tension filled moments, right up to the final whistle. Team: Lisa O’Suillivan, Donna Smith, Shauna Jordan, Laura McCarthy, Ciara Hurley, Yvonne O’Brien and Sorcha O’Brien. Well done to everyone involved!
Minor Football League – 7/3
Tracton 3-9, Shamrocks 3-6
After a poor first half, after which they trailed 1-6 to 0-2, a strong second half rally from Shamrocks saw them score 3 goals to lead Tracton by 5 points with 5 minutes remaining. However, concentration levels dropped thereafter and the concession of 2 late Tracton goals proved heartbreaking for a Shamrocks team that has been proving the critics wrong since the start of the campaign. A feature of the game was the outstanding display given by Shamrocks Darren Kirwan at full back and later at centre back – definitely a player for the future, and still U17. Team: I.Murphy, S.Bourke, D.Kirwin, R.Hourihane, T.Barrett, O.Boland, C.McCann, T.O’Sullivan, N.Tuohy, O.Hickey, D.Hayes, S.Leanov, C.O’Neill, R.O’Sullivan, S.Jones. Sub S.Dunne.
Junior A Football – 7/3
Ballymartke 2-9, Shamrocks 1-6
With any ambitions of league glory long extinguished, this game was treated as championship preparation and gave the selectors an opportunity to review both personnel and positioning. In spite of the fact a lot of the players on view had been involved in u21 championship action the previous day, it was only in the last period of the game that the strong home side grabbed the winning scores. Team: B.Mulqueen, D.Tuohy, C.Brady, K.Hegarty, S.Andrews, M.Prout, D.O’Neill, P.Prout, D.Sheehan, D.Bourke, S.Collins, E.O’Mahony, C.Fitzpatrick, D.Stuart, E.O’Rahilly. Sub S.O’Neill.
Junior C Football – 7/3
Shamrocks 3-12, Nemo Rangers 1-4
This group of players have been chucking along nicely thank you and they continued along their merry way with an easy win over a weak Nemo Rangers. Final score 3-12 to 1-4 for Shamrocks. A feature of the games played today was that Shamrocks put out 3 entirely different adult teams within the space of a few hours, between the Minor and the Juniors. The Cs had 19 players togged out in Trabeg at the same time as the A team were playing. For a club of our size, this is a remarkable statistic and is surely a first, definetly in a long time.
Week ended – 14th March 2004
Junior A Football League – 14/3
Shamrocks 2-10, Ballinhassig 1-2
Shamrocks finally put 60 minutes of decent enough football together to pick off their first win of the year. The game was played on the bottom pitch and a strong wind blew right across the pitch, making conditions difficult for all. The possession stakes were petty even throughout the entire game but Shamrocks were lucky that Ballinhassig didn’t have their shooting boots on. They wasted numerous opportunities, especially in the first half, while Shamrocks far more economical with their ball. All of the forwards got on the score sheet, Seanán Collins, Senan Andrews, Stevie O’Neill, Brian Beale, Sean Kelly with some nice scores from play and Alan Aherne with 2 close range second half goals to finally off Ballinhassig. Chris O’Neill and Mickey Prout also added to the total. We wish Kieran Hegarty a quick recovery from what looks like a shoulder injury and required hospital treatment. Team: B.Mulqueen, C.Brady, P.Prout, K.Hegarty, M.Prout, D.Roche, D.Sheehan, C.O’Neill, T.O’Sullivan, S.Andrews, S.Collins, S.Kelly, B.Beale, A.Aherne, S.O’Neill. Subs used – D.Collins, S.O’Reilly. The City Junior C League game against Fr.O’Callaghans, which was fixed for earlier in the morning was called off.
Week ended – 21st March 2004
City JHL – 21/3
Shamrocks 2-2, Blackrock 4-11
The scoreline tells its own sorry tale of a woeful Shamrocks ‘performance’ on Sunday morning last at Shanbally. Hardly any Shamrocks player can come out of this with any credit whatsoever. A gale force wind blew right down into the bottom goal and the underfoot conditions were heavy. Blackrock played with the advantage in the first half and had amassed a total of 1-9 by the break, Shamrocks efforts being concentrated on keeping the scoreline down as much as possible. Turning to play with the wind, hopes were up of clawing back the deficit, but Blackrock were the first to strike with a lucky goal. Try as they might, Shamrocks couldn’t make an impression on the scoreboard and the heads had dropped a long way from the finish line.
Minor Football League – 21/3
Kinsale 1-5, Shamrocks 2-6
A good win for Shamrocks on Sunday morning last, which was played on a very heavy surface in Kinsale, which keeps their league aspirations alive. Shamrocks played their best football in the opening half into the strong wind and led 1-3 to 0-3 at half time. They tired somewhat understandably in the second half but still ran out convincing winners. Roana O’Sullivan was top scorer with 2-2 while Rory Timmins, Thomas Barrett and Cian O’Neill also got on the score sheet. Team: Ivan Murphy, Sean Bourke, David Hayes, Robert Hourihane, Conor O’Shea, Oisin Boland, Cian McCann, Terence O’Sullivan, Niall Tuohy, Eoin Hickey, Rory Timmins, Thomas Barrett, Cian O’Neill, Ronan O’Sullivan and Stephen Dunne.
U10 Hurling Blitz – 21/3
These young boys returned to Crosshaven on Sunday afternoon last and played a series of games against Tracton, Ballygarvan, Sliabh Rua and Crosshaven. Team: Gary Hartnett, Michael Howard, Jack Howard, James Raleigh, Roy Twomey, Conor Cusack, Angus Boland, Jack Breen. Mentors: Pat Cusack, John Howard and Ian Breen.
Week ended – 28th March 2004
U21 Football Championship Semi Final – 28/3
Shamrocks 2-11, Ballinhassig 0-4
This was a very evenly contested game for 25 minutes of the first half at which point Shamrocks had edged 2 points clear. A goal before half time would be just the tonic and it duly arrived after a sweeping move involving 6 players ended with full forward Daniel Stuart shooting home from close range. Shamrocks led 1-5 to 0-3 at the break. Another goal arrived shortly after the resumption when Terence O-Sullivan volleyed home after the Ballinhassig backs failed to deal with a loose ball. Ballinhassig heads fell at this point and Shamrocks proceeded to kick some fine points to win comfortably on the scoreboard, but which in many ways flatters them. (Team – same as the final above).
City JHL – 29/3
Delaneys 2-9, Shamrocks 1-7
Shamrocks were unlucky to lose this game above in Dublin Hill on Monday night last, fielding a team which included some names from the past. Delaneys dominated the first half and led 2-6 to 0-5 at half time. A strong second half, which saw Colin O?Sullivan grab some good scores, saw Shamrocks come more into the game and they would not have been flattered to achieve a result. Rob Lannon, Dick Andrews (yes, Dick!), Ciaran Fitzpatrick, Darragh Collins and Bernard Hickey showed up well. Team: I.Cummins, P.Prout, R.Lannon, K.Roche, D.Andrews, D.Roche, C.Tierney, P.O’Sullivan, S.Kelly, C.O’Sullivan, D.Collins, C.Fitzpatrick, J.Sweeney, B.Hickey, B.Beale. Subs: K.Tierney, S.Jordan.
Minor Football League- 29/3
Shamrocks 0-12, St Vincents 0-4
St.Vincents were our visitors to Shanbally on Monday night and were well in the game up to half time when they held Shamrocks to a one point deficit of 4 points to 3. Shamrocks were by far the better team in the second half and scored some very good points to run out easy winners. Team: I.Murphy, R.Hourihane, D. Kirwan, S.Bourke, N.Tuohy, O.Boland, C.McCann, T.Barret, D.Hayes, T.O’Sullivan, O.Hickey, S.Leanov, C.O’Neill, R.O’Sullivan and Stephen Dunne.
U12 Football League- 29/3
Shamrocks came up against a strong Crosshaven side at Shanbally last Monday evening but played with determination all through and had some very promising players on view. Team: Declan Sheehan, Zachary Sheehan, Karen Twomey, James Raleigh, Cathal Kidney, Daniel Breen, Jamie O’Driscoll, Darragh O’Sullivan, Jonathan Tuohy, Joe Brady, Damien Kelleher, Laura McCarthy,Darragh Barry, Jordan Wells, and Chris O’Sullivan. Subs Roy Twomey, Jonathan Lynch and Conor Cusack.
Week ended – 4th April 2004
U21 Football Championship Final – 4/4 (Shamrocks are CHAMPIONS)
Shamrocks 2-12, Carrigaline 2-9
The famine is over.
Shamrocks bridged a 24-year gap at Ballygarvan on Sunday night last when our U21 footballers captured the South East A football championship for the first time since 1980, when they defeated reigning champions and big rivals Carrigaline in a thrilling final. It was a victory greeted by unbridled scenes of joy, as this was a massive win for the club. Shamrocks wanted and needed this victory so badly; so there was as much relief as joy at the final whistle. Shamrocks played with the aid of the stiff breeze in the opening half and started brightly, with points from Chris O’Neill, Seanan Collins, Stevie O’Neill and Joseph Shanahan. However, Carrig fought back with 3 of their own points from play after a change of tactics on their part. But, Shamrocks, showing tremendous character, upped their game and points from the O’Neills, followed by a length-of-the-field move (started by a huge David Tuohy catch at corner back) which culminated in Stevie O’Neill driving home a great ground shot to the back of the Carrigaline net, opened up a six point gap. Shamrocks took great belief from that goal, and went in at half time leading by 7 points, 1-7 to 0-3, Stevie putting over another point on half time. So, much work was still to be done as Shamrocks faced into a strong wing and a determined Carrigaline outfit. Even thought we lost the second half on the scoreboard, in many ways it was a better Shamrocks performance than the first. Carrigaline needed a quick response and it’s exactly what they got. A loose ball in an otherwise excellent Shamrocks full back line was dispatched to Barry Mulqueens net and Carrigaline added two further quick fire points. 24 minutes were left, the underdogs were playing into the wind and the title holders had their tails up, their momentum bringing the score back to 1-8 to 1-5. Now, nobody can tell me that everyone thought that Carrigaline were going to win this one. Everyone except the Shamrocks players and mentors. This is the time when, in this writers opinion, Shamrocks won the match. They seemed to lift the siege for about 15 minutes and kept Carrigaline at bay. Shamrocks actually started to control the match. The half back line was superb in this period, particularly Mickey Prout and the ever dependable Senan Andrews, along with the ‘work horse’ Nicky Hayes at centre field. Terence O’Sullivan and Stevie exchanged points with Carrigaline to leave it 1-10 to 1-6. Then Stevie fielded a Mickey Prout free, rounded his man and stuck it in the bottom corner for a peach of a goal. The place erupted but, credit to Carrigaline, they never gave up. They took over again, and scored a screamer of a goal themselves to bring the gap back to 3 points again, 2-10 to 2-7, entering injury time. But, Shamrocks desire and character shone through again, up the field they went, two Shamrocks points followed by two Carrigaline points. Eventually, after 5 minutes of injury (it seemed like forever), referee Brian Keniry blew the final whistle to the elation of every Shamrock present. Everyone played their part; Shamrocks were hungrier on the night. Obviously, Stephen O’Neill with 2-6 (2-2 from play) stands out, but this was about Shamrocks as a team and for manager Deccy O’Neill and co-selector Martin Prout, who followed this bunch of players from u12 up, it was a truly memorable night.
Team: Barry Mulqueen, David Hayes, Colin Brady, David Tuohy, Michael Prout, Stephen O’Reilly, Senan Andrews, Chris O’Neill (0-3) and Nicky Hayes, Terence O?Sullivan (0-1), Seanan Collins (0-1), Eoin O’Mahony, Joseph Shanahan (0-1), Daniel Stuart, Stephen O’Neill (2-6). Subs: Dave Bourke, Stephen Carroll, Oisin Boland, Eoin O’Rahilly, Dave O’Neill, Tadhg Forde.
Junior C Football League – 4/4
Rathpeacon 1-7, Shamrocks 1-12
The Junior C’s got this great day in the history of Shamrocks off to a winning start by continuing their unbeaten run in the league. It was heavy going all through, with Shamrocks playing against the wind in the first half. Indeed, a very heavy shower mid way through produced near impossible conditions, especially for the Shamrocks players playing right into the teeth of the driving wind and rain. However, we did get some excellent scores from play from Rob Lannon, Stephen Jordan and the ‘Swede’ himself, Dave O’Neill, who is back in the country and was playing his first game in 3 years. Half time we led 6 points to 5. Dave Bourke played the first 15 minutes of the game, before being taken off. Dave played so as to give him much needed match practice for later on in the evening. Anyhow, Shamrocks moved into a 7 point lead after 15 minutes of the second half, after a scoring blitz from Sean Kelly (1-2), Jordan, Brian Beale, sub Tony Carpenter and 2 more from O’Neill. Shamrocks took the foot off the pedal somewhat thereafter to allow the home side back into it with a goal and 2 points but Shamrocks closed out the contest with a few wind assisted scores. Team: D.Craven, D.Livingstone, I.Breen, P.O’Sullivan, C.Tierney, D.Roche, D.Bourke, S.Jordan, S.Kelly, D.Collins, R.Lannon, D.O’Neill, B.Beale, A.Aherne, J.Sweeney. Subs used – K.Tierney, R.McCarthy, C.Fitzpatrick, T.Carpenter.
U16 Football League – 1/4
Shamrocks 0-13, Valley Rovers 1-3
This was a perfect start for the season for the u16’s in the league against Rovers first team. It was a polished display from a team who had been prepared by Joseph Shanahan, with help from Ollie McCann and Jim Ronayne. Shamrocks led by 0-6 to 0-3 at half time and stretched their advantage in the second half. Best for Shamrocks on the night were Fergus O’Neill, Ivan Murphy, Gary Ronayne, Cormac Horgan and Philip Brady. Team: Fergus O’Neill, Nathan Kirwan, I. Murphy, Eoin Healy, G. Ronayne, Ronan Murphy, Cathal Fitzpatrick, C. McCann, C. Horgan, John Cronin, P.Brady, Owen Hickey, Michael O’Neill, Gavin Boland, Mark Jordan. Sub – Stephen Downey.
U14 Football League – 3/4
Shamrocks had a comfortable win over Ballinhassig in their first league game of the year last Friday night. All players contributed on the night but Darragh O’Sullivan ended up as top scorer. Team: Tomas Pierce, Stephen Walters, Stephen Hurley, Aaron Hickey, Donal Murphy, Eoin Healy, Alan McCarthy, Mark Jordan, Philip Brady, Billy Mullane, Mickey O’Neill, Brain Cusack, Colin Murphy, Stephen Downey, Darren O’Sullivan. Subs were Jonathan Tuohy and Jack Wilson.
U12 Football League – 5/4
Ballygarvan 1-4, Shamrocks 4-6
Shamrocks had a comfortable victory on Monday night at Ballygarvan with Darragh O’Sullivan and Tony Fitzgerald amoung the goal scorers. Team: Declan Sheehan, Zachary Sheehan, Jamie O’Driscoll, Jordan Wells, Cathal Kidney, Daniel Breen, Tony Fitz, Darragh O’Sullivan, Jonathan Tuohy, Joey Brady, Roy Twomey, Darragh Barry, Chris O’Sullivan, Laura McCarthy, Damien Kelleher, Jonathan Lynch.
Week ended -11th April 2004
U16 Football – 7/4
Shamrocks 2-4, Kinsale 3-12
Shamrocks were comfortably beaten in their second league game, which was played on the top pitch last Wednesday night. The early exchanges were even enough with Shamrocks cancelling out Kinsales early goal with a goal from a Phipip Brady free that went all the way to the Kinsale net. After that however, Kinale began to get on top around midfield and their forwards starting running right through the Shamrocks backs, adding 2 goals and and 4 points to effectively finish off the game. Shamrocks tried hard in the second half, Kinsale picked off their points while Mickey O’Neill scored a consolation Shamrocks goal. Team: F. O’Neill, N. Kirwan, R.Murphy, I. Murphy, E. Healy, G. Ronayne, C. Horgan, C. Fitzpatrick, C. McCann, J. Cronin, G. Boland, P. Brady, M. Jordan, O. Hickey, M. O’Neill.
Junior Football League – 7/4
Shamrocks 1-11, Ballygarvan 3-11
This game was played on the bottom pitch last Wednesday evening and underlined that Ballygarvan are still the team to beat at Junior level in the South East. Both sides played some excellent passages of football with some wonderful scores being registered on both sides. Eventhough Shamrocks lost, they can take encouragement from some the performance nevertheless, especially from some of the younger players. Shamrocks led early on by three points but Ballygarvan levelled with a goal and went ahead shortly after, a lead they were to never lose. They were always about 4 or 5 points ahead fro the remainder of the game. The half time score stood at 2-5 to 0-7 for the visitors. Without ever looking like clawing back the deficit, Shamrocks had about a 50% share of the possession in the second half, but some wayward shooting at times let them down. Over the hour, Chris and Stevie O’Neill, (Chris with the goal), Terence O’Sullivan, Nicky Hayes (2 points no less), Joe Shanahan and Dave O’Neill got on the Shamrocks scoresheet. Team: B.Mulqueen, D.Tuohy, P.Prout, D.Sheehan, S.O’Reilly, D.Roche, S.Andrews, C.O’Neill, N.Hayes, T.O’Sullivan, S.Collins, D.O’Neill, J.Shanahan, B.Beale, S.O’Neill. Sub used: E.O’Mahony.
U14 Football – 8/4
Shamrocks had a comfortable victory over Carrigaline 3 on Thursday night last in Carrigaline. They led by 10 points at half time and really pulled away in the second half. On the night, Tomas Pierce brought off some fine saves in the Shamrocks goal to deny Carrigaline, and along with Jordan Wells, Billy Mullane and Stephen Downey, they were Shamrocks best players on the night. Team: .Team: T. Pierce, S.Walters, S.Hurley, A.Hickey, D.Murphy, A. McCarthy, J.Wells, B.Murnane, S.Downey, D.Browne, M. O’Neill, C.Murphy, J.Sheehan, D.O’Sullivan, Laura McCarhty. Subs were J. Tuohy and J. Wilson
Week ended – 18th April 2004
Junior A Football Championship – 17/4
Shamrocks 1-10, Carrgaline 1-7
This was a dour struggle from start to finish in Camden on Saturday night. Shamrocks are just relieved that this tricky assignment is now out of the way and can now concentrate on hurling for the next month or so. Carrigaline were definitely up for this one and played some excellent football throughout and were perhaps unlucky not to get at least a draw out of it. They pushed Shamrocks all the way from the off, without ever leading it must be said. The conditions were not ideal, a diagonal wind adding to the slippery conditions. Shamrocks led 1-5 to 1-4 at half time. Sean Kelly was on the end of a sweeping move to finish to the top corner for the Shamrocks goal, while Stephen O’Neill was the chief point scorer in that half. Carrigaline did get on top before half time and scored 1-2 without reply just before and in injury time, which lasted 12 minutes no less, primarily because of an injury (2 in fact) to Chris O?’Neill, who collided with one of his own players in the lead up to the Carrig goal. He was stretched off with mild concussion. Anyhow, some harsh words were said in the Shamrocks dressing room at half time and the performance was more polished in the second half. They kept Carrigaline at arms length, controlling possession more or less and maintaining the 3 point lead. Joe Shanahan, Mark Hickey with 2 from play and O’Neill from fees and play again were the Shamrocks scorers in that half. Carrigaline did press in the closing stages but Shamrocks held out for the win, which put us into the next round in July sometime. A big improvement will be needed. We wish Chris well in his recovery; his injury is not as serious as we thought at the time. Team: B.Mulqueen, S.Andrews, P.Prout, D.Sheehan, N.Hayes, M.Prout, S.O’Reilly, T.O’Sullivan, C.O’Neill, S.Collins, J.Shanahan, S.Kelly, D.O’Neill, M.Hickey, S.O’Neill. Sub used D.Roche.
U14 Football – 16/4
Shamrocks 2-10, Tracton 2-0
This was a third win in a row for the U14 footballers which puts them in a very strong position to qualify for the semis. Shamrocks won both halves by the score of 1-5 to 1-0, with U12 player Darragh O’Sullivan top scorer yet again with 1-3. Tomas pierce was outstanding again in goal, even saving a Tracton penalty in the second half. Stephen Hurley at corner back, Mark Jordan at centre back, the midfield pairing of Philip Brady and Stephen Downey (with the other goal) and Mickey O’Neill (0-2) were Shamrocks best on the night. Team: T. Pierce, S.Walters, O.Healy, S.Hurley, D.Murphy, M.Jordan, A. McCarthy, P.Brady, S.Downey, B.Mullane, M. O’Neill, J.Wells, J.Tuohy, J.Sheehan, D.O’Sullivan. Subs J. Wilson, C.Murphy, B.Cusack, A.Hickey. Next game at home to Crosshaven next Friday night followed by a trip to Ballygarvan.
U12 Football – 12/4
Shamrocks had a comfortable win over Carrigaline on Easter Monday night, where they were ahead from the first whistle. On the night, Darragh O’Sullivan, Joey Brady , Daniel Breen and Cathal Kidney were Shamrocks best players. Players used: Karen Twomey, Darragh O’Sullivan, Joey Brady, Daniel Breen, Laura McCarthy, Cathal Kidney, Damien Kelleher, Zachary Sheehan, Declan Sheehan, Roy Twomey, Daniel Hayes, Jamie O’Driscoll, Jonathan Lynch.
U16 Football – 13/4
Shamrocks 3-7, Courcey Rovers 4-9
Shamrocks played the game against Courcey Rovers which was cancelled on St.Patricks day, it was played on the bottom pitch on Tuesday week last. Shamrocks lost this high scoring contest on a scoreline of 4-9 to 3-7. The fact that it was 1-3 to 0-0 to the visitors after 10 minutes meant that Shamrocks were playing catch up for the entire game and it was a deficit that they werent quite able to peg back throughout.
Junior B FL – 13/4
Shamrocks 3-15, Crosshaven 1-7
The B team got back on the winning trail after losing to Carrigaline two days previous with an easy win over Crosshaven at Shanbally last Tue week. The first half was pretty even with the half time score 1-5 to 0-7 for the greens, David Taggert with the Shamrocks goal. Shamrocks made hard work of overcoming a spirited Crosshaven outfit and only really pulled away in the last 10 minutes. On the night, the returning Mark O’Sullivan with 2-6 and Rob Lannon with 6 points were Shamrocks top scorers. Players used: E.O’Rahilly, D.Stuart, D.Livingstone, S.O’Reilly, D.Roche, D.O’Neill, T.O’Sullivan, S.Jordan, M.O’Sullivan, S.Kelly, D.Taggert, R.Lannon, J.Sweeney, D.Hayes, T.Forde.
Week ended – 25th April 2004
Junior Hurling
A number of games have been played in the last week as Shamrocks continue preparations for the Championship on May 7th. The Junior B Hurlers travelled to Brinny to take on the locals on Tuesday week last and came away with a very creditable draw. No report to hand on this one. The A hurlers then beat Ballinhassig by a point in the league on Thursday night. It was a hard fought encounter. After a slow Shamrocks start, which included an early Ballinhassig goal, the game developed into an even contest in which the lead was never more than the minimum to either side. Colin O’Sullivans accuracy from frees has not deserted him as his points from placed balls (0-10) was the decisive factor on the night. Robert Lannon was injured during the game but seems to be making a good recovery. He needed a good shake up anyhow. Team: D.O’Neill, S.O’Reilly, P.Prout, D.Andrews, S.Collins, R.Lannon, C.O’Neill, M.Prout, T.O’Sullivan, S.Andrews, P.O’Sullivan, B.Mulqueen, C.O’Sullivan, D.Collins, D.Bourke. Subs. D.Roche, M.Hickey, A.Geary.
On to Sunday morning then for another league game, this time at home to Courcey Rovers second string. Again, Shamrocks started slowly, but half way through the half, a Colin O’Sullivan goal ignited Shamrocks and they didnt look back for the rest of the game. Again, O’Sullivan was on form, hitting 1-7, while Dave Bourke and sub Ali G each grabbed a brace of goals, with Darragh Collins scoring some sublime points from full forward. The team was the same as above except Darren Roche filling in for Lannon with Ciaran Fitzpatrick, Colin Brady, Sean Kelly and Geary coming on as subs.
U16 Football – 21/4
Tracton 2-10, Shamrocks 2-6
Shamrocks went down by 4 points after this competitive encounter played in Minane Bridge last Wednesday night. Shamrocks led 1-4 to 1-3 at half time but were outplayed in the second half. John Cronin and Mickey O’Neill got the two Shamrocks goals, while Stephen Downey had 2 points. On the night, Robert Hourihane, Cian McCann and Ronan Murphy were Shamrocks best players. Shamrocks have a chance to gain revenge over Tracton as we play them in the league Semi Final this Wednesday night at home, 7.00pm.
U12 Football – 17/4
Shamrocks 4-11, Courcey Rovers 7-3
Playing at home on a terrible night, this was a great game of football. Shamrocks played very well in the first half, in particular Darragh O’Sullivan and Cathal Kidney, Joey Brady , and with Karen Twomey at full back and Jonathan Tuohy at centre back, we looked to have a settled team. The weather conditions were not great but both teams put in a great effort to overcome them in an exciting and pulsating match, which went to the wire. Shamrocks went in at half time down two points but came stroming back in the second half and at one stage we were 7 points up. Our younger players really came to the fore in the second half, particularly Tony Fitzgerald, Daniel Breen, Jamie O’Driscoll, James Raleigh, Jordan Wells and Damien Kelleher. But for the fact that Courceys got 3 late goals, we would have won well.
U12 Football – 19/4
Tracton 5-9, Shamrocks 6-10
This was easily a game of two halves – Shamrocks played with the strong breeze in the first half and led at half time by 2-5. However, after the break, Tracton came right back into the game and scored some early goals. But, showing tremendous character, the Shamrocks lads put their backs to the wheel and got ‘stuck in’. Some great football was played, in particular from Darren Barry, who is showing all his fathers ability, Jamie O’Driscoll, James O’Rahilly and Stephen Healy. Tracton had come to within 1 goal of Shamrocks and looked good for a win. But then scorer in chief Darragh O’Sullivan won a ball on his own 45 and went on a mazy solo run, rounding no less than 6 Tracton players before cracking home a wonder goal, securing an exciting victory for the team.
Week ended – 2nd May 2004
Junior Hurling
Again, a number of games have been played in the last week as Shamrocks continue preparations for the Championship this coming Friday night. A city league game was played on Monday night at Trabeg against Nemo Rangers, and with no u21 players present, Shamrocks gave a run out to some fringe players. Shamrocks were well down at half time but managed to fight back for the draw. On the night, Darragh Collins and Alan Aherne scored the Shamrocks goals, while the best players were Patrick Andrews in goals, who made the long trip from Wexford and back in the one night, Dick Andrews, Keith Roche, Bernard Hickey, Conor Tierney and Sean Kelly.
The B team played Ballymartle on Tuesday night and recorded a comfortable victory. We then played Mayfield in the City league and again, an easy victory was chalked up. With Mayfeld now gone up Intermediate, this was their second string. Tadgh Forde got 1-2 from full forward while minor player Oisin Boland got 1-1. Then on Friday night, Shamrocks and Ballygarvan played out a close League game in the track; it also doubled up as the annual Jackie O’Driscoll Memorial trophy. With more of a championship looking team out on the field, and this being both teams last practice before championship, this was played at a faster pace than previous games. Shamrocks were always ahead in this one and Ballygarvan were playing catch up for most of the game, a feat they stuck manfully to and made Shamrocks work very hard for the win. Colin O’Sullivan, Mark Hickey and Darragh Collins were the Shamrocks goal scorers. The rest of the week will feature training before the game against Ballymartle this Friday night in Carrigaline at 7.30pm.
U16 Football
Shamrocks were easily beaten by Tracton in the semi final of the league last Wednesday night. No report to hand.
U14 Football
The lads had a comfortable win over Ballygarvan on Friday night and now go on to the semi final which could be played this weekend. This is a fairly evenly balanced side and contains some fine footballers in Eoin Healy, Mark Jordan, Philip Brady, Stephen Downey, Conor Cusack, Darragh O’Sullivan, Josh Sheehan and Stephen Hurley. A lot of hard work has been put in by their mentors Diarmuid Murphy, Pat Cusack and Pat McCarthy.
Week ended – 9th May 2004
Junior Hurlers Beaten in Championship – 7/5
Ballymartle 3-10, Shamrocks 3-09
Shamrocks turned in a disappointing performance against a strong Ballymartle 15 at Ballygarvan in the preliminary round of the championship. Too many players just didn?t perform up to scratch on the night and this was the reason for defeat. It was a topsy turvy game of high scoring hurling with Shamrocks looking like they done enough by moving into the lead for only the second time with 3 minutes left, as they led by a point. However, Ballymartle didnt give up and scored 2 unanswered points to steal the win. Shamrocks had got off to a bright start with a deflected Darragh Collins shot deceiving the Ballymartle keeper to goal all the way to the net. However, Ballymartle reasserted themselves and with a goal of their own, went into a 1-3 to 1-0 lead. Shamrocks came more into it thereafter and a second goal, this time from Dave Bourke left the half time score 2-5 apiece with it all to play for in the second half. Colin O’Sullivan was missing a few frees which didnt help, however sub Stevie O’Neill with 3 points from play kept Shamrocks in second half touch. A Colin O’Sullivan 65 went all the way to the Ballymartle net before Ballymartle struck at the other end to move ahead again. Shamrocks tagged on a brace of points to move into the winning position before Ballymartle scored those late points. Shamrocks now play Kinsale on the week ending June 19/20. Team: R.Collins, S.O’Reilly, P.Prout, D.Andrews, S.Collins, R.Lannon, C.O’Neill, M.Prout, P.O’Sullivan, S.Andrews, T.O’Sullivan, M.Hickey, C.O’Sullivan, D.Collins, D.Bourke. Subs. S.O’Neill, C.Brady, A.Aherne Two City league games were played over the following two days, first a home win over Ballinhassig, 1-14 to 0-5. On a perfect morning for hurling, Shamrocks led 5 points to 3 at half time and tagged on a goal and a few points in the second half. Pat Andrews in goal, Senan Andrews in his favoured half back position, Stephen O’Reilly, Conor Tierney, Eoghan O’Rahilly and Sean Kelly were to the fore for Shamrocks. Shamrocks then played Whitechurch on the Monday night and this game turned into a bit of a farce. It turned out that Whitechurch were playing Junior A championship the following Friday night so the held their first 20 players in reserve, with the result that Shamrocks completely annihilated them. You’d question the timing of the fixture, especially after travelling up there as well.
U14 Football – 9/5
Shamrocks 6-8, Ballygarvan 0-0
Shamrocks had a comfortable win over Ballygarvan on Sunday morning last. Playing with the wind in the first half, they led 2-6 to 0-0 at half time and the selectors were anxious that this mightnt be enough of a lead. However, the second half display dispelled the doubts as Shamrocks turned in a confident performance. Shamrocks best players on the morning were Jordan Wells at half forward, Joshua Sheehan at full forward, Donie Murphy at half back, the two corner backs Stephen Walters and Aaron Hickey and Brian Cusack. Come along and support the lads. Team: T.Pierce, Walters, S.Hurley, Hickey, Murphy, M.Jordan, A,McCarthy, S.Downey, P.Brady, Wells, M.O’Neill, Cusack, C.Murphy, Sheehan, D.O’Sullivan.
U12 Football – 10/5
Shamrocks 5-3, Courcey Rovers 5-6
For the second time in a month, we lost out narrowly to Courceys in a great game of football played at Shanbally. Karen Twomey and Daniel Breen were outstanding at the back, Cathal Kidney and Darragh O’Sullivan showed fine form at midfield while Jonathan Tuohy was always to the fore up front. Our thanks to the mentors ‘Sid’ Kidney, Pat Tuohy, Alan Tuohy, Ian Breen and John ‘Socket’ Twomey who put in a lot of hard, unseen work and also to the parents for their continued support without which we would not be playing at all.
Week ended – 30th May 2004
U10 Hurling Blitz
Shamrocks played in Crosshaven for the second week running and played three marvellous games, beating the home side and Sliabh Rua and drawing with Tracton. Panel: David and James Raleigh, Dan and Jack Breen, Michael and Jack Howard, Roy Twomey, Darragh Barry, Conor Cusack, Conor Walter, Damien and Shane Kelleher. Our thanks to Kieran Barry and John Howard who helped out on the day.
Week ended – 6th June 2004
U14 Football Final – 2/6
Shamrocks 3-9, Tracton 0-6
Shamrocks won their first underage trophy for a few years with a comfortable victory over a gallant Tracton side at Carrigaline last Wednesday night. While the same bunch of players had not shown up as potential trophy winners in earlier years, this year from the very start of the campaign they put down a marker of their determination to prove themselves and for this much credit must go to their mentors Diarmuid Murphy, Pat Q and Pat Mac. Every line of the field was up to the task from the throw in and total commitment was applied for the full hour. Philip Brady was dominant at midfield and contributed a monumental 2-7. If this guy isn’t a star for the future, nobody is! Stephen Hurley was consistent all through at the back while Mark Jordan won everything at centre back. Michael O’Neill led the line well at centre forward and chipped in with a well taken goal. Team: Thomas Pierce, Stephen Walters, Eoin Healy, Stephen Hurley, Donal Murphy, Mark Jordan, Alan MacCarthy, Philip Brady, Stephen Downey, Billy Murnane, Mickey O’Neill, Brian Cusack, Darragh O’Sullivan, Josh Sheehan, Colin Murphy. Subs used: Jack Wilson, Jordan Wells, Aaron Hickey, Jonathan Tuohy.
Junior Hurling League – 28/5
Shamrocks 4-10, Tracton 0-8
Shamrocks eventually had a comfortable win over a fairly strong Tracton side at Shanbally on Saturday night. Shamrocks found the going tough against the breeze in the opening half but a Colin O’Sullivan goal from a close in free settled the side. After the break, the Shamrocks defenders came more into the game and curtailed the Tracton forwards to just a couple of points while the forwards, with better possession, picked off some good scores. Seanan Collins and Dick Andrews were prominent in the half back line with Dave Bourke, Darragh Collins and Senan Andrews likewise up front. Team: R.Collins, S.O’Reilly, R.Lannon, Peter Prout., D.Andrews, S.Collins, D.Roche, B.Mulqueen, S.Kelly, S.Andrews, T.O’Sullivan, S.O’Neill, D.Bourke, D.Collins, C.O’Sullivan. Subs used: B.Hickey, A.Geary, D.Sheehan.
Junior B Hurling League – 25/5
Crosshaven 4-10, Shamrocks 1-6
A depleted Shamrocks team were no match for the seasiders at Crosshaven last week. The concession of some soft goals, 2 of which were deflected, were too much of a handicap to overcome and the game was over as a contest long before the end.
Week ended – 13th June 2004
Junior Hurling Leagues – 8/6
On Tuesday week last (8/6) out in Ballinspittle, Shamrocks B team turned in what was described on the night by the selectors as one of their worst displays in years. This wasnt happening for Shamrocks from the word go and even with 2 extra men after Courceys had them sent off, elementary mistakes were common place throughout. Its just hoped that this was a one off (non)performance. On the night, only Keith Roche in the full back line came out of the game with any credit. Then, On the following Monday night, Shamrocks hosted Carrigaline in the Junior Hurling league and while they won by a comfortable margin, victory was achieved at a price in that some injuries were picked up. Darragh Collins, who is one of our more influential players, was sent off and looks set to get a months suspension. Final score 3-15 to 0-7
U12 Hurling – 10/6
Ballygarvan 4-7, Shamrocks 2-3
The home side proved too strong for Shamrocks on Wednesday night where Cathal Kidney, Daniel Breen, Jack Breen, Zachery Sheehan and Karen Twomey were best for Shamrocks. Two more games were played against Tracton (away) and Courcey Rovers (home) and both resulted in defeats, which results from a very weak panel numerically, which is the case this year with Shamrocks.
U10 Hurling Blitz – 12/6
Shamrocks travelled to Minane on Saturday morning last (12th) and played 3 games against Tracton, Crosshaven and Ballygarvan. They had a triangle of mixed results, a win, a loss and a draw. Panel: Jack and Dan Breen, David Barton, Rory Horgan, Gary Hartnett, Roy Twomey.
Junior Hurling Leagues
A number of games were played in the last week. In the Junior B League, a late Stephen Jordan goal gave Shamrocks a deserved 3-11 to 2-12 victory over Belgooly. In the Junior City League, Shamrocks ground out a 2-10 to 1-9 win over a tough and at times robust Ballinure side at Shanbally, a game in which Senan Andrews showed up well at centre forward. Then last Saturday night (5/6), Shamrocks led for most of the game but in the end it was disappointment for the greens as Valley Rovers won a very low scoring game, 1-8 to 2-4, a game played at Brinny.
Week ended – 20th June 2004
Junior Hurling Championship – 19/6
Shamrocks 4-8, Kinsale 0-3
Shamrocks never anticipated that this vital winner takes all encounter would turn out so one-sided in their favour after 2 early Colin O’Sullivan goals seemed to completely deflate Kinsale. Playing into a fairly strong wind from the throw in, Shamrocks were in top in most departments and were deserving of their half time lead of 3-4 to 0-2. Another O’Sullivan long range gaol immediately after the break signalled the end of this tie as a contest and the only surprising thing of the remainder was that Shamrocks did not build up a bigger score.
Ronan Collins was competent all through while Colin Brady, Chris O’Neill and Stephen O’Reilly were always to the fore at the back. Stephen O’Neill was always involved at wing forward while Dave Bourke proved a handful for defenders all through. Colin O’Sullivans frees were up to their usual high standard. Team: R.Collins, S.O’Neill, C.Brady, P.Prout, C.O’Neill, S.Collins, D.Roche, M.Prout, B.Mulqueen, P.O’Sullivan, T.O’Sullivan, S.O’Neill, D.Bourke, A.Aherne, C.O’Sullivan. Sub used: S.Andrews
Week ended – 27th June 2004
Junior B Hurling Championship – 26/6
Shamrocks went out of the competition at the first stage after a whopping 9-14 to 0-1 defeat against Belgooly last Saturday night. This must rank as Shamrocks worst ever defeat at Championship level and absolutely nothing went right for Shamrocks. While several players were missing through various reasons, its hard to believe this was the same Shamrocks team who beat the same Belgooly team in the league a month ago. It was one way traffic all the way, 6-8 to no score at half time. Nuff said on that one.
U12 Hurling
This side registered their first win of the campaign as they overcame St Finbarrs at Shanbally on Saturday (27/6) morning and subsequently were narrowly defeated by Kinsale in Kinsale on the following Monday evening. Shamrocks played very well on the night and were unlucky to lose out on a scoreline of 2-5 to 1-5. Team: J.Sheehan, J.Wilson, Z.Sheehan, T.Barton, J.Tuohy, J.O’Driscoll, T.Harris, C.Kidney, D.Breen, R.Twomey, D.Shaahan, D.Kelleher, L.McCarthy, J.Breen
Week ended – 4th July 2004
Golf Classic – 2/7
The Bi-annual Shamrocks Golf Classic was held last Friday in Monkstown GC and proved to be a great success as usual with numerous teams competing. At the 19th hole, the winning team was declared to be Ian Cummins, Mark Hickey and Con O’Mahony. We’d like to thank Monkstown GC, the organising committee of Nellie O’Mahony, Pat Hennessey and in particular Alan Geary, who did trojan work for the past few months. Also to the various teams and finally to our 3 main sponsors Ford, The Right price Tile and Aventis.
Junior B Football – 4/7
Shamrocks 2-5, Tracton 0-9
Shamrocks won the match last Sunday morning with a powerful second half display. Tracton led 0-7 to 0-0 at half time after Shamrocks had wasted numerous scoring chances. However, the half time pep talk seemed to breathe new life into Shamrocks. Ali G slotted over a few frees, Ken Tierney got his fist to an Alan Aherne delivery for the first Shamrocks goal, Rob Lannon at full forward finished a fine 3 man move to the Tracton net for the second and player manager Bernard Hickey scored a fine point from way out on the wing to steer Shamrocks to victory. Colin Brady was on top form for Shamrocks while the game featured the return to action of Kieran Hegarty after a 4 month absence with a serious shoulder injury. Two more games will be played in the coming week.
Week ended – 11th July 2004
Minor Hurling League – 12/7
St Finbarrs 1-2, Shamrocks 3-8
Weakened Shamrocks warmed up for their championship outing with a victory against St Finbarrs second string at Togher on Monday night. The first half was fairly even with the half time score being 4 points to 2 in favour of the greens. However Terence O’Sullivan and Robert Hourihane got amongst the goals for Shamrocks in the second half to ensure the victory. The returning Simon McGarry, Gary Ronayne and Robert Hourihane were Shamrocks best players on the night.
U14 Hurling League – 12/7
Carrigaline 1-2, Shamrocks 2-2
Shamrocks eventually came out on top in this evenly contested game played in Carrigaline on last Friday night. The first half couldnt have been any closer, 1-2 apiece at half time. Alan McCarthy scored the Shamrocks 1-2 from frees. Shamrocks just about shaded the second half with Alans sister, Laura, coming off the bench to claim the winning goal for a team that featured five under 12 players. Josh Sheehan was reliable in goal, while Donie Murphy, Cathal Kidney and Mark Jordan defended very well. Apart from McCarthy at midfield, Colin Murphy put in a good hours hurling up front. Team: J.Sheehan, D.Murphy, D.Breen, C.Kidney, E.Healy, M.Jordan, A.McCarthy, S.Hurley, J.Tuohy, S.Downey, C.Murphy, B.Cusack, J.Wilson. Sub L.McCarthy. Laura and Alans father, Pat, has contributed a lot of his time to coaching this side and his efforts are very much appreciated. Pat Cusack and Diarmuid Murphy have continually given their beat efforts at a time when it is extremely difficult to obtain adult input into juvenile activities. The U14 are now into the semi final of the league.
Junior Football – 12/7
Just a brief note to mention the fact that Shamrocks played O’Donovan Rossa Juniors in a challenge match in Shanbally this night. Rossa making the long journey up was very much appreciated and we hope the game benefits them as well as us for the Championship. Tea and sandwiches were provided afterwards. For the record, Shamrocks won 2-11 to 1-9 (about)
Week ended – 18th July 2004
Junior B Football Leagues – 13/7 & 16/7
Shamrocks played and won two games in the City junior C Leagues in the last week. First up were near neighbours Rochestown at Shanbally last Tuesday evening and after a spirited performance from the visitors for 45 minutes, Shamrocks pulled away at the end to win 4-16 to 1-3. Darragh Collins, Alan Geary, Rob Lannon, Steve ‘new boots’ Jordan Sean Kelly, Dave Bourke and sub Jamie Sweeney did most of the scoring for Shamrocks. On a wet and greasy Friday night, Shamrocks travelled to Bishopstown and enjoyed a comfortable win. The game was really over at half time as Shamrocks had build up a significant lead. Alan Geary, Pat O’Sullivan, Steven ‘not quite so new boots’ Jordan and Tony Carpenter played well for Shamrocks. Shamrocks are now in a very strong position to qualify for the final of this competition.
Junior Football Championship- 18/7
Shamrocks 3-12, Belgooly 3-11
Shamrocks were lucky to escape with a 1 point victory over a gallant Belgooly team at Riverstick on Sunday night. Shamrocks built up an early 6 point lead courtesy of goals from Chris O’Neill and a beauty from Seanan Collins and some nice points from Stevie O’Neill and Mark Hickey. However, Belgooly just wouldn’t let Shamrocks get away and kept pressing themselves, picking off the points as they did. The margin was still 6 points at half time. Again, the second half was a tough game of football with Belgooly giving as much as they got. By the midway point of that half, Stevie O?Neill dispatched the ball to the Belgooly net and Shamrocks had a ten point lead and everyone thought that was that. But Belgooly, who had already scored a goal earlier in the half and had seen Shamrocks miss a peno again showed great character and picked off a few points entering injury time to leave 7 points between the teams. Suddenly, in 2 quick attacks, they scored 2 goals to leave just the bare minimum. If the referee had played on another minute or two, Belgooly could have even won this game as they finished like a train, while Shamrocks just either took the foot off the gas or ran out of ideas. Shamrocks are now in the semi final and the simple fact is this – A huge improvement is needed, we were haunted. Team: B.Mulqueen, C.Brady, P.Prout, K.Hegarty, S.O’Reilly, M.Prout, D.Sheehan, C.O’Neill, N.Hayes, S.Kelly, S.Collins, J.Shanahan, S.O’Neill, M.Hickey, D.O’Neill. Subs used – S.Andrews, D.Bourke. On a separate note, the were beaten easily by Tracton in the Minor B Hurling Championship on Friday night.
Week ended – 25th July 2004
City Hurling Leagues – 24/7
Douglas 2-15, Shamrocks 1-4
Shamrocks travelled with virtually a second string to complete their City League campaign and Douglas easily wrapped up the points. The half time score was 1-7 to 0-1 in favour and with nothing for the Shamrocks team to play for; the game was as good as over as a contest. An early second half goal from a Colin O?Sullivan free went all the way to the Douglas net to offer Shamrocks some hope but Douglas went on a point scoring spree, slotting them over from all angles with a great display of accurate shooting. Shamrocks play the semi final of the SE championship in 3 weeks. Team: R.Collins, K.Roche, R.Lannon, P.Prout, D.Sheehan, D.Andrews, D.Roche, P.O’Sullivan, C.Tierney, O.Boland, A.Aherne, C.O’Sullivan, P.Andrews, D.Collins, E.O’Rahilly.
U21 Hurling Championhship – 23/7
Valley Rovers 4-9, Shamrocks 3-5
This was always going to be an uphill struggle against our illustrious opponents but the concession of 2 soft goals early in the first half cost Shamrocks dear. Every ball was contested from the first whistle and scores were not easy to come by until 2 long range frees ended up in the Shamrocks net. A flicked goal from Dave Bourke and some fine points from Stevie O’Neill and Mickey Prout gave some hope for the second half, despite a 7 point deficit. Rovers greater strength saw them continue to bring the game to Shamrocks in the second half and they profited from the concession of some needless frees. Shamrocks were not conceding just yet and 2 fire opportunist goals from Mickey Prout kept the contest alive to the end. Stephen O’Reilly and Dave O’Neill had solid games at the back but the best Shamrocks line was Senan Andrews, Seanan Collins and Nickey Hayes at half back. Prout when moved to the forwards and Stevie O’Neill also put in a good hours work. Team: C.O’Neill, S.O’Reilly, C.Brady, D.O’Neill, S.Andrews, S.Collins, N.Hayes, C.O’Neill,M.Prout, B.Mulqueen, C.Fitzpatrick, S.O’Neill, D.Bourke, E.O’Rahilly, J.Shanahan. Subs used: O.Boland.
Junior C Football Leagues – 20/7
Shamrocks 4-8, Ballinure 0-6
Shamrocks easily defeated Ballinure to further continue their unbeaten run in the JCF League. No report received.
Week ended – 1st Aug 2004
Updates
There were no games played in the club last week. With the Minors, U21’s and Juniors all still in the championship, this was quite an unusual situation, but thats the way things fell. We had a gap of about 2 weeks so training was stepped up on all fronts. In fact, Shamrocks trained last Sunday morning at the ungodly hour of 9 o’clock. This was to facilitate the likes of Lannon and Rochey and Deccy Sheehan who wanted to be in plenty of time for Shanbally Mass at 11.30, just to get in a few extra prayers before throw in. In fact, snotser was spotted banging a sliotar off the alter fully 35 minutes before Mass started. Speaking of Deccy Sheehan, this was his last (?) Shamrocks engagement ( for a while anyway) as he headed off to Australia on the Monday for a year at least to meet up with Wombat, Chopper and Todds to make a valuable contribution to their culture and economy. They’ll be a better country for it. Seriously, we wish him well and hope you enjoyed the Sushi in Tokyo Dec!!
Week ended – 8th Aug 2004
Hurling update – 5/8
With Shamrocks Championship Semi Final verses Ballinhassig down for the weekend after Cork V Wexford (C’mon the Rebels!!), Shamrocks played Newcestown in a very worthwhile challenge match at Shanbally on a wet Thurs night. It could prove to be a worthwhile exercise for both teams in the long run. At least it broke the monotony of endless training sessions for the last 2 weeks anyway. Shamrocks tries out a few things in the game and won in the end by 3 points. Barry Mulqueen got the Shamrocks goal while Rob Lannon and Chris O’Neill played well. Thanks to Newcestown for making the journey up on what was a dreadful night for hurling.
U14 Hurling Championship Semi Final – 6/8
Carrigaline 5-4, Shamrocks 0-1
Shamrocks were always up against it against a very strong Carrigaline at Carrigaline last Friday evening. And sure enough, as the scoreline suggests, Carrigaline made no mistake as they built up a 5 goal half time lead to effectively close the door on any Shamrocks hopes. Shamrocks missing a number of key players due to holidays, had only pride to play for in the second half and they went out and didn?t let themselves down. They tried very hard against bigger and better team and can be very proud of their performance. Team: Joshua Sheehan, Alan McCarthy, Steven Hurley, Brian Cusack, Mikey O’Neill, Jordan Wells, Philip Brady, Cathal Kidney, Owen Healy, Darragh O’Sullivan, Colin Murphy, Jonathan Tuohy, Steven Downey.
SE Football League – 6/8
Carrigaline 2-4, Shamrocks 1-14
Next door at the same time, Shamrocks overcame a game Carrigaline side with a dominant second half performance. This was a big win for Shamrocks – the game doubled up as a South East B league game and the Semi Final of the City C league. Defeat would have ended our season. Carrigaline got off to the better start and punished some slack Shamrocks defending in the early stages to fire 2 quick goals. Shamrocks replied with some points from Darragh Collins, Alan Aherne and Steve Jordan and in fact finished the half much the stronger, with 4 unanswered points to only trail by the bare minimum at the short whistle, 2-2 to 0-7. Shamrocks were fired up for the second period. They were soon level and moved ahead by 3 points courtesy of Rob Lannon and Ali G’s frees, and a puach of a goal from Collins. Carrigaline pushed forward in waves for 10 minutes but the Shamrocks backs were ready for them. A fine double save from ‘emergency’ keeper Patrick Andrews was the catalyst for Shamrocks to weather the storm and dominate the remainder of the game. Shamrocks turned on the style with 4 unanswered points, some of them beauties. This was a fine game of football from both teams with all Shamrocks players making valuable contributions. Team: P.Andrews, D.O’Neill, D.Livingstone, K.O’Mahony, S.Andrews, D.Roche, K.Tierney, S.Jordan, B.Hickey, A.Geary, D.Collins, D.Bourke, R.Lannon, A.Aherne, D.Stuart.
Week ended – 15th Aug 2004
Shamrocks in Croke Park
The underage ran a bus to Croke Park for last Sundays stroll in the sun for Cork over Wexford. A great day was had by all as the Rebels turned on the style for us. The coach was full with 16 adults and 37 children and we stopped in Abbeyleix on the way back for a meal. Thanks to our sponsors and also a big thank you to the chief organiser John Twomey (Socket) who put a tremendous effort into the smooth running of the event. Mind you, the four ‘Gorillas’ he employed to keep the lads in check, Ian Breen, Dino, Jim Ronayne and Pat Q couldnt do anything about the heavy traffic we encountered on the up and down.
U16 Hurling Championship – 11/8
Shamrocks were well beaten by a better Tracton side at Shanbally last Wed evening. However, there were some notable performances from Michael O’Neill, Ivan Murphy, Gary Ronayne, Donie Murphy and Robert Hourihane. Team: M.O’Neill, J.Browne, O.Hickey, S.Hurley, C.Fitzpatrick, I.Murphy, R.Murphy, G.Ronayne, J. Cronin, D.Murphy, P.Brady, F.O’Neill, S.Downey, R.Hourihane, C.McCann. Sub A.McCarthy.
Week ended – 22th Aug 2004
U14 Football Championship – 18/8
Ballinhassig 5-4, Shamrocks 2-10
Shamrocks will have to try and re-enter the championship via the back door after this 3 point defeat to Ballinhassig last Wednesday night. The winning of the game was in the goals. Shamrocks started brightly enough and had some scores on the board but the concession of 2 quick goals before half time hit them hard. They were still ahead 1-6 to 2-2 at the break. However, they couldn?t maintain the level of football as their lack of practice and training told against them. Ballinhassig were able to pounce for the goals that would give them victory. Best for the greens on the night were Mark Jordan, Philip Brady, Josh Sheehan and Cathal Kidney. It is hoped that Shamrocks will play to their undoubted potential in the next stage. Team (13-a-side): T.Pierce, A.McCarthy, M.Jordan, E.Healy, S.Hurley, S.Walters, P.Brady, S.Downey, B.Cusack, M.O’Neill, B.Mullane, D.O-Sullivan, J.Sheehan. Subs – C.Kidney, J.Wells, A.Hickey, C.Murphy, J.Tuohy, D.Clifford, L.McCarthy.
Well done lads
Well done to the two Shamrocks players on the Cork U21 panel who gave football a much needed boost in the county by beating Kerry last week in the Munster final inTralee – Michael Prout and Chris O’Neill. Michael played at corner back and had a great first half in particular. Chris still has 2 years left under 21 at this stage. Joe Shanahan was on the extended training panel and like Chris has two years still at u21.
Week ended – 29th Aug 2004
Junior Hurling Championship Semi – 26/8
Ballinhassig 5-11, Shamrocks 2-7
A most disappointing end to our hurling championship season was the reality for Shamrocks at wet Carrigaline last Thurs night. Shamrocks were beaten out the gate by a superior Ballinhassig second string. While Ballinhassig played some great hurling in the tough conditions, Shamrocks efforts came to nought. Everything went wrong for them on the night and the many nights of training and the optimism before the match were reduced to zero. Shamrocks worst fears were realised within 15 minutes as Ballinhassig, as they have so often done over the years to Shamrocks, wrapped the game up in that time with 3 goals. The game was over as a contest at that stage as the blues, with the wind and rain to their backs, led 3-4 to 0-2, Pat and Colin O’Sullivan the Shamrocks scorers. Shamrocks were desperately trying to stymie the slick Ballinhassig play but it just got worse as they scored another goal and a few points to open up a massive 14 point lead at half time, 4-7 to 0-5. Colin O’Sullivan with 2 further frees and Stevie O’Neill from play completed the Shamrocks total in that half. Whatever slim chance Shamrocks had of getting back into the game were banished upon the restart as Ballinhassig got in for yet another goal. The rest of the game for Shamrocks was an exercise in playing for pride; they did manage two late goals from Colin O’Sullivan (free) and Darragh Collins. Mickey Prout hit a point. On a desperately disappointing night for us, Terence O’Sullivan was the outstanding Shamrocks player, followed by Pat O’Sullivan who tried very hard. Team: R.Collins, S.O’Reilly, R.Lannon, P.Prout, C.O’Neill, D.Andrews, D.Roche, S.Andrews, M.Prout, T.O’Sullivan, P.O’Sullivan, S.O’Neill, D.Bourke, D.Collins, C.O’Sullivan. Subs used: M.Hickey, B.Mulqueen, A.Aherne.
Week ended – 5th Sept 2004
SE Junior B Football League Final – 2/9
Kinsale 2-5, Shamrocks 1-2
Shamrocks suffered their second loss in a row in the final of this competition, again to Kinsale, at a wet and windy Ballygarvan last Wednesday night. Disappointment seems to be order of the day for Shamrocks adult teams these last few weeks. Hopes were high – the performance was the opposite. Shamrocks can claim that they were the better side than Kinsale on the night – but if you cant put the ball over the bar, you?re inviting the opposition back into it. Shamrocks shooting was abysmal; they must have kicked anything up to 17 in total, some from right in front of the posts. The wind and rain completely ruled out quality football as both sides struggled to put any real movement together. After dominating the opening 15 minutes, Shamrocks only led by a point to nil. Kinsale started to put some ball in front of their full forward line and struck over 3 points in a row to lead 3 to 1 at the break. It could have been worse but Shamrocks keeper Pa Andrews pulled off a great point blank save in a one-on-one with a Kinsale forward. Again, the second half was more or less a continuation of the first; the wides were building up. Rob Lannon did get Shamrocks first score in 40 minutes with a pointed free. Kinsale went six points up courtesy of a successful penalty conversion with 15 minutes left. Shamrocks battled away and Dave O’Neill, operating at wing back, saw his shot go all the way to the Kinsale net. A goal down with 6 minutes remaining and Shamrocks were back in the game. And a golden opportunity was spurned when Shamrocks missed a penalty with only a few minutes remaining. Kinsale went down the field and scored a goal of their own with the last attack to drive that final nail in the Shamrocks coffin. Team: P.Andrews, K.O’Mahony, D.Livingstone, D.O’Neill, C.Tierney, D.Roche, S.Andrews, T.O’Sullivan, S.Jordan, A.Geary, D.Collins, D.Bourke, R.Lannon, A.Aherne, D.Stuart. Subs: B.Hickey, D.Hayes, D.Tuohy.
U16 Football Championship – 1/9
Courcey Rovers 1-8, Shamrocks 2-6
The same night, Shamrocks made the long trip to Ballinspittle and came away with a narrow one point victory. This was as tight a game as you could wish to see as two evenly matched teams scrapped for the right to play Valley rovers in the next round this coming week. While every one of the 18 players used made contributions in very conditions, it was the Shamrocks backs that came out with all the plaudits for the winners. They were magnificent all through and epitomised the fighting spirit this young team showed on the night. Top scorer for Shamrocks was Philip Brady with 1-4 while full forward Owen Hickey got the other Shamrocks goal. Team: F.O’Neill, R.Hourihane, N.Kirwan, I.Murphy, C.Fitzpatrick, C.Horgan, M.Jordan, R.Murphy, J.Cronin, D.Murphy, P.Brady, G.Ronayne, S.Downey, O.Hickey, M.O’Neill. Subs used – A.McCarthy, S.Hurley.
U14 Football Championship – 31/8
Ballygarvan 2-6, Shamrocks 7-3
After a slow enough start during which Garvans were the better side, Shamrocks were eventually given the initiative with 2 goals from Darragh O’Sullivan which set them up for a lead of 4 points at the break. Shamrocks upped the tempo in the second half and further goals from O’Sullivan again, Philip Brady, Daniel Breen, Josh Sheehan, and Mickey O’Neill put the game beyond a gallant Ballygarvan side. Team: B.Cusack, S.Hurley, O.Healy, S.Walters, C.Kidney, M.Jordan, D.Murphy, P.Brady, M.O’Neill, B.Mullane, S.Downey, J.Tuohy, D.O’Sullivan, J.Sheehan, C.Murphy. Subs used: A.Hickey, D.Breen, J.Wells.
Week ended – 12th Sept 2004
Minor Football Championship – 6/9
Shamrocks 1-9, Sliabh Rua 3-12
Shamrocks were well beaten at Ballygarvan on Monday night in spite of some fine individual displays from Darragh Kirwan, David Hayes and Tomás Barrett in particular. Team: R. O’Sullivan, D. Kirwan, R. Hourihane, O. Boland, S. Burke, T. Barrett, T. O’Sullivan, S. Jones, D. Hayes, N. Tuohy, S. Dunne, C. O’Neill, E. Cole.
U14 Football Championship – 6/9
Shamrocks 5-6, Carrigaline 2-4
Shamrocks had a great victory over our age old rivals at Shanbally last Monday evening. Carrigaline took the initiative early on but some great defending from Mark Jordan, Owen Healy and Donie Murphy ensured that progress was curtailed. A Philip Brady goal settled Shamrocks who led 1-3 to 0-2 at the break. Some powerfull midfield play from Philip Brady and Stephen Downey ensured that Mickey O’Neill and Darragh O’Sullivan had sufficient possession to display their scoring prowess. Team: T.Pierce, S.Hurley, E.Healy, A.McCarthy, C.Kidney, M.Jordan, D.Murphy, P.Brady, S.Downey, B.Murnane, M.O’Neill, B.Cusack, J.Tuohy, J.Sheehan, D.O’Sullivan. Subs used: C.Murphy, S.Walter.
Week ended – 12th Sept 2004
CountyU21 A Football quarter Final – 9/9
Nemo Rangers 2-18, Shamrocks 1-5
Nemo Rangers had far too much power and football for Shamrocks in the delayed Quarter final of the County last Thursday night at Carrigaline. They simply overwhelmed Shamrocks and were more or less dominant in every sector throughout the hour?s football. Joe Shanahan kicked the first point of the game for Shamrocks early on but that was as good as it got. Nemo were soon into their stride and had opened a 0-6 to 0-1 lead after 15 minutes. They continued to dominate right up to half time and could have been further ahead but they missed 3 clear goal chances in that half. The half time score was 0-9 to 0-3. Things went from bad to worse when Barry Mulqueen in the Shamrocks goal was stretchered off just after half time when he collided with a post while making a save. Nemo picked off 6 points in a row to assume winning position at 0-15 to 0-3 and added a couple of goals to round off what has to be described as a very impressive performance from them. Shamrocks on the other hand were very disappointing – too many of their players just didnt perform on the night in question. They are better than this. Shanahan slotted home a late Shamrocks penalty. Team: B. Mulqueen, O.Boland, D.O’Neill, D.Hayes, M.Prout, S.O’Reilly, S.Andrews, C.O’Neill, T.O’Sullivan, J.Shanahan, E.O’Mahony, N.Hayes, S.O’Neill, D.Stuart, S.Carroll. subs used: D.Kirwan, T.Barrett.
Week ended – 19th Sept 2004
U14 Football Championship – 14/9
Shamrocks 4-10, Ballinhassig 1-5
Shamrocks completed the League/Championship double at Crosshaven last Tuesday night when a strong second half performance proved too much for a gallant Ballinhassig outfit. Playing with the elements in the first half and with some forceful play from Mark Jordan at centre back and Philip Brady at midfield, Shamrocks raced into a half time lead of 2-6 to 1-1. The Blues came out all guns blazing in the second half and quickly added 1-1 to narrow the gap. But Eoin Healy at the back, Stephen Downey at midfield and Mickey O’Neill and Darragh O’Sullivan up front upped the pace and Shamrocks eventually ran out comfortable winners.
Team: T.Pierce, S.Hurley, E.Healy, D.Murphy, M.Jordan, A.McCarthy, P.Brady (1-6), S.Downey, B.Mullane, M.O’Neill (2-2), B.Cusack, D.O?Sullivan (1-1), J.Tuohy. Subs used: S.Walters, C.Kidney, C.Murphy, J.Sheehan, J.Wells. Great credit is due to the selectors, in particular Pat Mac, who put in a lot of work with the boys.
Junior Football Championship Semi Final – 18/9
Tracton 1-17, Shamrocks 1-9
Shamrocks made a tame exit from the championship last Saturday night in Riverstick. An even enough first half gave way to one way Tracton traffic in the second half. Sean Kelly, Steven O’Neill and Mark Hickey scored early Shamrocks points in a promising opening but Tracton began to get to grips with the game and went 0-6 to 0-3 ahead after 15 minutes. Darragh Collins finished a ground shot to the Tracton net after the keeper had fumbled a high ball to get Shamrocks back into the game. With Mark Hickey slotting over a few Shamrocks frees, Shamrocks were able to keep in touch with a Tracton team who were playing some good attacking football. The half time score of 0-9 to 1-6 suggested a tight ending to this game. Not so. Tracton were completely on top in the second half over a flat Shamrocks team. Whenever they attacked, they seemed to score. A goal 10 minutes in for Tracton put them six points ahead and as soon as they went 7 up, the game was drawing to its inevitable conclusion. Both teams basically played out the remaining 20 minutes without much of note happening. Shamrocks tagged on 2 late points but it made not one whit of a difference. A promising year had ended in a whimper. Team: D.Craven, K.Hegarty, A.Aherne, P.Prout, S.O’Reilly, M.Prout, N.Hayes, C.O’Neill, T.O’Sullivan, S.Kelly, M.Hickey, J.Shanahan, S.O’Neill, D.Collins, D.Bourke. Subs used: K.O’Mahony, S.Andrews
U16 Football Championship – 17/9
Shamrocks were beaten by Valley Rovers iby 4 points in the second game of a three team round robin at Brinny on Friday night. No details were available.
Week ended – 26th Sept 2004
U21 A Hurling Championship – 28/9
Ballinhassig 6-19, Shamrocks 0-5
Shamrocks proved no match for Ballinhassig in the Quarter final of these Championships atMinaneBridge last Saturday. This was a game too far for many of the players, as Shamrocks put out a seriously depleted, and even some players on the starting 15 were carrying injuries. After a brief flurry of attacks from Shamrocks, our opponents quickly got down to business and soon had the game wrapped up before half time. Against all the odds, a few players stood out – Cian O’Neill in goal was composed and reliable all through while Thomas Barrett and Dave Hayes defended strongly till the end. Two players who were clearly carring injuries, Senan Andrews and Mickey Prout, hurled themselves to a standstill as usual. Team: C.O’Neill, D.O’Neill, S.O’Reilly, T.Forde, H.Hayes, C.O’Neill, D.Hayes, S.Andrews, S.O’Neill, T.O’Sullivan, C.Fitzpatrick, E.O’Rahilly, D.Bourke, M.Prout, T.Barrett. Subs – S.Bourke, D.Stuart.
Week ended – 3rd Oct 2004
U16 Football Championship – 3/10
Shamrocks 1-7, Tracton 2-3
Shamrocks just held on for a one point win over Tracton in miserable conditions at Shanbally last Sunday morning. This was a hard fought, tight match from start to finish, with Shamrocks holding a one point half time advantage, 1-1 to 0-3, having played against the driving wind and rain. Robert Hourihane had scored the Shamrocks goal. A Tracton goal from a penalty after half time gave them a brief lead but Shamrocks dug deep and points from Philip Brady, mainly from frees helped Shamrocks to a four point cushion. A late Tracton goal gave them hope but time ran out on them. Best for Shamrocks on the morning were Cormac Horgan at centre back, Philip Brady, Mark Jordan and Jon Cronin. Panel: C.Fitzpatrick, F.O’Neill, I.Murphy, G.Boland, R.Murphy, G.Ronayne, C.McCann, C.Horgan, N.Kirwan, E.Hickey, R.Hourihan, P.Brady, M.Jordan, E.Healy, J.Cronin. The Final is provisionally pencilled in for tonight (6th).
Sciath na Scol
The local have been very busy of late on the football scene under the guidance of teacher Diarmuid Murphy. Monkstown boys have competed against some stiff competition in St Johns Mayfield, Gaelscoil Youghal and Upper Glanmirewho just pipped them for a place in the next stage. Among the stars were Justin Cronin, James Quirke. Frank Bruen, Kevin O’Driscoll, Alan Hudson and Shane Delea. Monkstown girls competed in a special Carrigdhoun Grade C section where they finished second and they were well served by Bethany O’Connor, Clodagh Collins, Mary Fawcitt, Lisa O?Brien, Aoife O’Connor, Amy Coleman, Elizabeth Leahy, Jennifer McWhinney and Aine Healy.
Ringaskiddy have also been in great form with some fine performances from Declan Sheehan, David Barton, David Drinan, Daniel Brown, Cathal kidney, Daniel Breen, Roy Twomey, Damien Kelleher, Tony Fitzgerald, Tommy Harris and Chris O’Sullivan.
Shanbally have also been in action with John Lynch, Darragh Barry, Darragh O’Sullivan, Laura Mac and James Raleigh displaying the skills.
Week ended – 10th Oct 2004
U16 Football Championship Final – 5/10
Shamrocks 2-7, Valley Rovers 1-8
Shamrocks scored a great victory over Valley Rovers in the C Football Final at Ballygarvan last Tuesday evening. Rovers were favourites going into the game as they had beaten Shamrocks earlier on in the campaign and had beaten a fancied Kinsale team in the Semi final. But Shamrocks, playing the final only two days after the semi final, showed tremendous character and fight against all the odds to claim the trophy. Its a young side, backed by many of the u14 team who won their respective championship a few weeks previous. Shamrocks played with the strong breeze in the first half and had built up a lead of 1-7 to 0-1 at half time, but it didnt seem enough. Valleys came out in the second half with real vigour in their play but Shamrocks second goal, just after half time, gave them a small bit of breathing space. They didnt score for the remainder of the game as Valleys threw everything at Shamrocks. Luckily for the harboursiders, time ran out on Rovers and Cian McCann accepted the trophy on behalf of the Shamrocks team and mentors. On the night, Fergus O’Neill made penalty save in the first half which proved decisive in the end. Ronan Murphy and Mark Jordan were superb all through in defence while the scoring up front was done by Gary Ronayne (goal), Philip Brady (0-4), Eoin Hickey (goal) and Rob Hourihane (0-3). Team: F.O’Neill, C.Fitzpatrick, R.Murphy, N.Kirwan, E.Healy, C.Horgan, M.Jordan, I.Murphy, C.McCann, G.Ronayne, P.Brady, J.Cronin, E.Healy, R.Hourihane, G.Boland. The County is up next, scheduled for 2 weeks time.
SE Junior Hurling League Final – 10/10
Shamrocks 3-9, Valley Rovers 1-9
Shamrocks juniors salvaged something from their season with a 2 goal victory over Valley Rovers at Ballygarvan on Sunday morning last. Shamrocks started brightly and scored a few points before Rovers got on the scoreboard and they dominated the rest of the half and led 1-6 to 0-3 at half time, after having played with the stiff breeze. Shamrocks were a changed team in the second half and Stephen O’Neill scored Shamrocks first goal to bring them right back into the game. Colin O’Sullivan grabbed Shamrocks second and Hernix kicked home the third. Chris O’Neill, Mickey Prout and Darragh Collins played well for Shamrocks while Stephen O’Neill slotted over a few frees.
Week ended – 17th Oct 2004
U14 County Football Championship – 16/10
St Marys 0-15, Shamrocks 1-7
Shamrocks lost out by 5 points to the Carbery champions from the Enniskeane/Ballineen area in a game played in Ballineen on Saturday. It must be admitted that St Marys were a better team than Shamrocks but the visitors played some great football to be within touching distance of the winners at the final whistle and with a bit of luck could have been a lot closer. St Marys had the better of the first half and led 0-7 to 0-2 at half time. Their familiarity with the 13-a-side format which was in use here was evident. Shamrocks, while facing a near impossible task, played with real vigour in the second half and Philip Brady scored a Shamrocks goal. Shamrocks felt that they should have had a penalty with 10 minutes to go when they were pressing Marys. However, the home team held on and advanced to the County Semi. On the day, Gary Ronayne, Mark Jordan (when switched to midfield) and Philip Brady with 1-3 were Shamrocks best players. Great credit is due to all the Shamrocks players who contributed throughout the season – they were unfancied at the start of the season but have steadily improved under mentors Jim Ronayne, Joseph Shanahan and Ollie McCann. Negotiations are already under way regarding next years contracts.
Team: F.O’Neill, C.Fitzpatrick, R.Murphy, N.Kirwan, C.Horgan, M.Jordan (0-1) I.Murphy, C.McCann, G.Ronayne, P.Brady (1-3), J.Cronin, O.Hickey (0-1), R.Hourihan (0-1). Sub used: G.Boland (0-1).
Junior B Football Championship – 17/10
Shamrocks 0-4, Courcey Rovers 2-8
Shamrocks managed to get a team together for the B championship but it was just that – they didnt gel on the day and were well beaten by a much better Courceys team who showed the benefit of having put in proper training with their A team. They made the trip to Shanbally on Sunday morning last. Playing up the hill into the wind in the first half, Shamrocks were pretty happy going in at half time losing by 0-4 to 0-2. However, it could have been closer as chances were missed. Having said that, it was typical Junior B in October – both sides were guilty over the hour. Hopes were high at the start of the second half of a Shamrocks performance, but it never happened. They just never got going and the heads were down a long way from the finish. Pat O’Sullivan and Oisin Boland were Shamrocks best players on the day. Team: E.O’Rahilly, P.O’Sullivan, I.Breen, D.Tuohy, C.Tierney, D.O’Neill, D.Livingstone, O.Boland, D.Stuart, S.Carroll, A.Geary, B.Hickey, T.Forde, R.Lannon, J.Sweeney, P.Andrews.
Week ended – 25th Oct 2004
U11 Football – 25/10
Shamrocks 4-6, Kinsale 3-7
Shamrocks had a hard earned victory over the visitors to Shanbally on Bank holiday Monday afternoon. Playing with the wind in the first half, Shamrocks ran into a 3-4 to 0-2 half time lead and were well in control. Kinsale strormed right back into the game in the second half and only some solid defensive work enable Shamrocks to prevail. Players involved: Stephen Healy, David Barton, Michael Howard, Cathal Kidney (0-1), James Raleigh, Jamie O Driscoll, Darren Barry (0-1), Daniel Breen (1-0), Roy Twomey (1-0), Declan Sheehan, Tony Fitzpatrick (0-2), Damien Kelleher (2-2), Damien O’Rahilly, Tommy Harris, Jack Breen, David Murphy.
Week ended – 8th Oct 2004
U11 Football – 6/11
Shamrocks 5-5, Crosshaven 2-2
Shamrocks continued on their winning ways when they outscored the seasiders at Camden on Sunday. Cathal Kidney, who had on Saturday played with the under-14 side was prominent at centre back while Darren Barry, Roy Twomey and Tony Fitzgerald were in goalscoring mood.
Team: Stephen Healy, Daniel O’Rahilly, Zach Sheehan, Michael Howard, Jamie O’Driscoll, Cathal Kidney, James O’Rahilly, Daniel Breen, Declan Sheehan, Darren Barry, Roy Twomey, Chris O’Sullivan, Jack Breen, Tony Fitzgerald, Jonathon Lynch, Matthew Garvey, Daniel Jordan, Gary Hartnett.
U14 Football County Quarter – 6/11
Shamrocks 5-3, Kildorrery 1-3
Shamrocks ultimately had a comprehensive victory over our north Cork opponents at Shanbally last Saturday but the scoreline in no way does justice to a very competitive game. Shamrocks had an early goal from Darragh O’Sullivan and another from Michael O’Neill but Kildorrery were not out yet and trailed by 2-2 to 1-1 at half time. For almost the entire second half the Shamrocks backs were put under pressure as Kildorrery came forward time and again but had only two points to show for their efforts. Out of the blue, Jordan Welles outpaced the defence and goaled from close in. Darragh O’Sullivan quickly did likewise and the game was as good as over. A further goal from Philip Brady had no impact on the result but was well deserved for his effort over the last 15 minutes. Owen Healy, Stephen Hurley, Donal Murphy and Mark Jordan were prominent when needed especially in the second half but the forwards made no progress until the last five frantic minutes.
Team: T. Pearse, O. Healy, S. Hurley, D. Murphy, M. Jordan, A. McCarthy, P. Brady (1-3), S. Downey, B. Mullane, M. O’Neill (1-0), B. Cusack, D. O’Sullivan (2-1), J. Tuohy, C. Kidney, J. Welles (1-0), S. Walters, A. Hickey.
City Junior C Football Semi – 7/11
Shamrocks 4-14 Gurranebraher 1-5
Shamrocks had a comprehensive victory over the city-northsiders in this interdivisional fixture on Sunday morning. The game featured some fine individual displays, in particular Darren Craven in goal, Dave O’Neill and Oisín Boland at half back while Tadgh Forde and Dan Stuart were prominent up front.
Team: D. Craven, D. Livingstone, P. Prout, D. Tuohy, D. O’Neill, D. Roche, O.Boland, S. Kelly, S. Jordan, D. Collins, R. Lannon, A. Geary, D. Burke, T. Forde, J. Sweeney, P. O’Sullivan, D. Stuart, T. Carpenter, C. Brady, S. O’Reilly.
Week ended – 14th Nov 2004
U14 County Football Semi Final – 13/11
Shamrocks 5-5, Cloyne 3-5
Shamrocks season goes on for another week at least when they recorded a splendid victory over the Imokilly champions at Shanbally on Saturday afternoon last. This was another fine battling performance from the lads who yet again faced a second half onslaught from their opponents, but for the second week in a row pulled off a superb victory. Shamrocks were quick out of the blocks and Jonathan Tuohy had 2 goals inside the first 10 minutes. Cloyne began to find their feet thereafter and settled down to take over in the second quarter. Shamrocks were struggling coming up to half time but Darragh O’Sullivan struck for a vital Shamrocks goal just before the break. Shamrocks led at the short whistle 3-2 to 2-4. Cloyne went ahead after the break with a goal and with a much more physical team, looked good to stretch clear in the testing conditions. But Shamrocks stuck to their task manfully; Philip Brady slotted home a penalty to get Shamrocks back in front and the rest of the game featured some heroic defending from the Shamrocks backs. The switch of Eoin Healy at full back and Mark Jordan at centre back worked a treat. Tomas Pierce in the Shamrocks goal made some great second half saves when the pressure was at its greatest. Philip Brady got 2-3 from midfield while Stephen Hurley and Jonathan Tuohy also made vital contributions.
Team: T. Pierce, E. Healy, S. Hurley, D. Murphy, M. Jordan, A. McCarthy, P. Brady, S. Downey, B. Mullane, M. O’Neill, B. Cusack, D. O’Sullivan, J. Tuohy, C. Kidney, J. Welles, S. Walters, A. Hickey. Sub C.Kidney for Mullane.
City Minor Football Semi Final – 14/11
Shamrocks 1-5, Tracton 4-11
Shamrocks were well beaten in the league semi by Tracton on Sunday morning last. The half time score was 1-7 to 0-1 and Tracton stretched the lead soon after the break to finish the game off. Shamrocks did battle to the end and Terence O’Sullivan scored 1-1 while Niall Tuohy kicked a point, along with Tomas Barrett. Team: I.Murphy, S.Bourke, D.Hayes, C.McCann, O.Boland, N.Tuohy, T.O’Sullivan, D.Kirwan, C.O’Neill, T.Barrett, R.Hourihan, R.O’Sullivan, S.Dunne. Subs: G.Ronayne, F.O’Neill.
Week ended – 21st Nov 2004
U14 County C Football Final – 20/11
St Colums 2-6, Shamrocks 2-5
Absolute heartbreak for Shamrocks. Just one look at the score line sums it up. So close yet so far for this brave u14 Shamrocks team. Having battled against the odds to get this far, Shamrocks left a County title after them in Enniskeane (St Marys) on Saturday afternoon last. This was a brilliant game of football from start to finish and credit must go to both teams for a superb hour in trying conditions. It was just a pity that someone had to lose, after an unbelievable finish to the match. St Colums started much the better and looked far superior to Shamrocks. Their physical advantage over the Shamrocks players, particularly our forwards, was all too evident and they won most of the 50/50 balls. They were 1-2 to 0-0 up after 15 minutes but then Philip Brady at midfield for Shamrocks came thundering into the game and Shamrocks were back in it. He kicked 2 quick points and set up Darragh O’Sullivan for a beauty of a goal. Brady kicked two more points coming up to half time to leave the half time score 1-4 to 1-3 in favour of Shamrocks. St Colums started the second half much like the first: encamped in the Shamrocks half. It was backs to the wall stuff for Shamrock and St Colums scored a lucky goal when a long range free went over the heads of the Shamrocks goalkeeper and corner back to the back of the net to set up Colums for the title. But, not for the first time when faced with a challenge, Shamrocks took over. The last 10 minutes featured only 3 players in the Shamrocks half as Shamrocks came forward in waves trying to peg back the 4 point deficit. Brady saw his pile driver brilliantly saved by the Colums keeper before Mickey O’Neill scored a goal as the game was entering injury time and the place erupted. Was there time to grab a draw or even a winner? Shamrocks won the kickout and set up Mark Jordan who had come up from full back but unbelievably, his effort hit the upright and the rebound was put narrowly wide. There was even time for another Shamrocks attack but again the Shamrocks effort went narrowly wide. It just wasnt to be. Shamrocks most definitely deserved a draw at the very least and Colums were absolutely haunted to be bringing the cup back to Kealkill. However, this Shamrocks team and mentors can be very proud of themselves and their efforts this season. They came from the next parish to win the South East when nobody gave them a chance. On the day, Eoin Healy was absolutely superb at centre back and was the best player on the field. Not far behind him was Philip Brady who kicked all the Shamrocks points, one of them in the second half one of the best scores youll see anywhere. He also set up the 2 goals, but Shamrocks were far too reliant on him for scores. Others to shine for Shamrocks included Donie Murphy, Mark Jordan, Alan Mac and Cathal Kidney who made a real difference when introduced as a second half sub.
Team: T. Pierce, E. Healy, S. Hurley, D. Murphy, M. Jordan, A. McCarthy, P. Brady,S. Downey, B. Mullane, M. O’Neill, B. Cusack, D. O’Sullivan, J. Tuohy, J.Wells, S. Walters, A. Hickey. Sub C.Kidney.
City Junior C Football Final – 21/11
St Finbarrs 1-15, Shamrocks 0-6
A second final defeat in 2 days was Shamrocks lot up in Togher on Sunday morning last. Again hopes were high of finally securing a trophy at this level but in truth, Shamrocks were never at the races in this game. The ?Barrs laid the foundations for this win in the first half as, with slick forward play, the opened up the Shamrocks defence at will but were content to take their points. Darragh Collins was keeping Shamrocks in the game with 3 points from play. Rob Lannon added another to leave the half time score 0-9 to 0-4 in favour of the ?Barrs. Shamrocks turned to play with the breeze but their challenge never got off the ground. The Barrs controlled midfield and they in turn were feeding their speedy forwards. When they got a goal 10 minutes in, it was all over as a contest. Shamrocks battled on till the end and were rewarded with a point apiece from Collins and Daniel Stuart. Team: D.Craven, D.Livingstone, C.Brady, K.Hegarty, D.O’Neill, D.Roche, O.Boland, S.Kelly, S.Jordan, A.Geary, R.Lannon, D.Collins, J.Sweeney, D.Stuart, D.Bourke. Subs used: B.Hickey, S.O’Neill, S.O’Reilly, T.Carpenter.
U11 Football – 21/11
Shamrocks 1-6, Sliabh rua 3-5
Shamrocks? great run came to an end at Shanbally on Sunday morning. Playing against a well drilled and stronger side they acquitted themselves well and never gave up the fight. Dave Barton and Michael Howard caught the eye at the back while Declan Sheehan, Daniel Breen, Chris O’Sullivan and David Kelleher were seen to good effect going forward.
Team: S. Healy, D. Barton, D. Murphy, J. Raleigh, C. Kidney (0-4), J. O’Driscoll, D. Breen, D. Sheehan, R. Twomey, D. Barry, C. O’Sullivan (1-0), J. Lynch, T. Fitzgerald (0-1), D. Kelleher (0-1), D. Raleigh, M. Garvey, S. Hartnett, J. Breen.
Week ended – 25th Dec 2004
Poc Fada Preview
Our annual long puck competition takes place on Sunday, 2nd January 2005 starting at the oratory at 12 noon. There are many prizes on offer to male and female competitors over 11 years of age. The event is unique in that the city fathers have designated this to be their first celebration of the capital of culture; the significance being that the scheduled route is acknowledged to be the path taken by St. Finbarr on his way to found the city of Corkafter landing at Gobby in 433AD. Preparations are well underway and the parish is expecting the biggest influx of people since the visit of the QEII to Ballybricken in 1992. The participants themselves are at an advanced stage of preparation and Donal Brady will take the first stroke using a hurley he has specially made himself from local chestnut tree. Last years winners of Reilly, Colin Spud and Senan have been commuting to Patrick Andrews in Wexford and training over Vinegar Hill, Boolavogue. Kenny Coveney and his team have been fine tuning their skills under lights along the Well Roadunder the critical eye of his uncle Jerh, while Declan O’Neill and his merry band have been seen at Fountainstown strand on most mornings since September.
Stephen O’Neill and Darren Roche will not compete as they are striking for better conditions and have joined the G.P.A. while Pat Sullivan has to attend to early spring lambs. Michael Kidney, who claims to be descended from Cúchulainn himself, was unable to finish the course last year as he lost the ball up a tree. We have now solved his problem by having the tree removed. John Collins and his family team have been to training camp in the Algarve and will be sporting overall tans. Robert Lannon is confident that this one is his and will be continuing on is diet of pea soup and pear water while Dave Burke has engaged the services of a dietician. Neighbours in Monkstown have been alarmed at strange sightings by night along Scotsman?s Road but Ian Breen has established that it is Nicky and Dander practising with the aid of a Christmas candle. John Twomey (Shanbally) is well prepared and expects to be in Shanbally before Fr. Pat leaves the alter but Lorcan Aherns expectations are somewhat lower and has conceded privately that he may not arrive until after Pat the Postman on Monday morning. John Twomey (Ringaskiddy) will be attempting to set new records at the long dart and will start from Paddys Block.
Todds Sweeney will add an international dimension to proceedings by unveiling his team of native Australians who he has trained himself while Helen Prout will not compete this time as she pulled a muscle at weight training and Barry Mulqueen has been nominated as the course marshal. Paddy Andrews is expecting a tight finish with inconclusive results and is bringing along his solicitor. Bernard Hickey will do random doping tests from his mobile patrol and he assures us that Jamie Sweeney wont lose the B sample. The rules of competition will be rigorously enforced by Neilly O’Mahony and the final results will not be made public until they have been audited by Pat O’Neill. The club is mindful of its obligations to the less well prepared and the most modern and ultrasonic medical facilities including a defibulator will be to hand. Our sponsors, John Dineen and Mark Hickey, have instructed us that only those wearing formal dress attire will be admitted to the prize giving ceremony which will be covered by Sky Sports and CNN. Results will be published by The Carrigdhoun, The Daily Star and The Hong Kong Herald.
Christmas Draw Results 2004
The annual Christmas draw took place on Tuesday December 22nd in The Shamrocks Bar. The following are the first 10 names out of the hat:
1st prize – Alan Geary, 2nd prize – Eileen Regan c/o Paddy A, 3rd prize – Eddie Hanley, 4th prize – Dander, 5th prize – Lisa Morley, 6th prize – Samantha Shanahan, 7th prize – Damien O’Driscoll, 8th prize – Margaret Murphy, 9th prize – John Hegarty (Wexford footballer), c/o Pa Andrews in Wexford CBS, 10th prize – Paddy McCarthy.