Archives 2011

 

Week ended – 9th January 2011

 

Puc Fada

The annual Puc Fada took place this Sunday, January 2nd along the usual route from The Oratory in Ringaskiddy to just below the roundabout in Shanbally. It was a hugely successful event and it was great to see so many young players, boys and girls taking part. The overall winner of the Adult section was Colin O’Sullivan with a great score of 23 shots, completing a hatrick of titles. Runner up was Cian O’Neill. The under 14’s went to Coby O’Grady with David Raleigh 2nd. The Under 18’s went to Tony O’Mahony, who amazingly beat every single player in the entire competition with an incredible 21 shots. Place your bets on him to win the Senior in 2 years time, when he becomes eligable! Liam Shanahan won the over 50’s from John Bourke. Jim Ronayne won the over 40’s from Dick Andrews in 2nd place. Laura McCarthy won the Ladies competition from Lisa Cronin. Well done to all our organisers (the Executive led by Liam Shanahan), all our competitors and our Sponsors Mark Hickey of the Shamrock Bar.
A special word of thanks to our Guest of Honour, Donal Og Cusack, Cork Senior Hurling goalkeeper. Donal Og is a regular visitor to this parish and in his speech at the Presentation Ceremony he thanked the club and said how proud he was to be asked to present the medals at this event. He said that anytime he met anyone of the Shamrocks members around the place he knew that they were GAA people at heart and he also went on to say that the Long Puck was part of the greatest sport in the world, drawing much applause from the packed audience. He also took time to sign hurleys for the many underage players present. Our thanks to Donal Og and we wish him well for 2011 with both his Club and Cork. Photos in photos section.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Christmas Draw

We held our annual Christmas draw last week. Our thanks to all our dedicated sellers and buyers, and of course our sponsors. Results as follows –

1st Prize – Lady Beth
2nd Prize – Monica Hegarty, Cobh
3rd Prize – Joe Mac
4th – Maggie Boyle, Belgooly
5th – Ruairi Meighan
6th – Chris O’Neill
7th – Mary O’Mahony
8th – Kay O’Mahony
9th – Jamie Greasley c/o Donie O’Leary
10 – Mary Murphy
11th – Monica Carroll c/o Michael Brennan
12th – Nellie O’Leary, Raffeen Hill
13th – M. Kenneally c/o Lorcan Aherne
14th – Emmett OBrien c/o Oin O’Neill
15th – Ann Dunlea – John Hanley
16th – Adrian Walsh c/o Jim Ronayne
17th – Catherine Ronayne
18th – Mary O’Neill
19th – Kieran O’Donovan c/o John Collins
20th – Hazel Murphy c/o Pat Murphy
21st – Eilish O’Mahony, Shanbally NS
22nd – Anne Marie O’Flaherty c/o Dave
23rd – Sean O Coileain
24th – Gabrielle MAcken c/o Pat Murphy
25th – Paddy Clifford, Shanbally NS
26th – Finny Cummins c/o Pat Cusack
27th – Una Cunningham, Shanbally NS
28th – Sinead O’Mahony c/o Liz O’Grady
29th – Sharon O’Connor c/o Oin O’Neill
30th – Catherine Carroll c/o Michael Brennan

Thanks to all who contributed in any way.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

 

Week ended – 16th January 2011

 

Club AGM

The AGM of the adult club went ahead in the Grace McCarthy rooms on Monday night last. Mr Michael Brennan was elected President for life at the outset of the meeting. The chairperson Liam Shanahan in his opening address thanked all who had come to the meeting and all who had helped out the club in the previous year. He said that 2010 was a good enough year for the club both on and off the pitch. The Runai Finbarr O’Flaherty and acting Treasurer John Twomey (Shanbally) presented their reports, which were both excellent and wide ranging. Liam Shanahan also presented an excellent Chairpersons report. The following officers were elected for 2011 – President for Life – Michael Brennan: Chairperson – Liam Shanahan; Vice Chairperson – Pat McCarthy; Runai – Finbarr O’Flaherty; Treasurer – Sean O Tuama; Registrar – Tony O’Sullivan; Co Board Draw Coordinator – Lorcan Aherne; Drugs and Alcohol Officer – Sgt Jamie Sweeney; Players Rep – Seanan Collins; Oifeagach Culturtha agus Gaeilge – Padraig MacAindriu; Co Board Delegate (Hurling) – Patrick Andrews. There are still a number of important positions to fill so if your interested, you know who to contact. The meeting then moved onto playing matters and the following were elected for management positions in 2011. Minor Hurling – Liam Shanahan. Minor Football – to be filled soon. U21 Football – Joseph Shanahan and Mickey Prout. U21 Hurling – to be filled later on. Junior A Football – Pat McCarthy and his team from 2010, including Declan Bray as trainer. Junior Hurling – It was decided to hold a meeting for all interested partics, in particular players, on Monday January 24th in the clubrooms at 8pm. This is to discuss the way forward after a poor championship campaign in 2010. The Junior B Footballers wont be entering competitions this year as the Executive want to concentrate more on the younger players coming through, in particular at U21 level. The chairperson thanked everyone for their contributions to the meeting. First Executive meeting for the new year upcoming, probably next week, to plan further.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                              

 

 Week ended – 23rd January 2011

 

Hurling Meeting

A hurling meeting for all interested parties in the club (players, officers, underage, members etc) took place in the clubrooms Monday night. This was to discuss the direction we will take re hurling from this point on.

 

Training

The next month will be mostly for training, with all teams getting back into action.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                              

 

Week ended – 13^th February 2011

 

Under B 21 Football Championship – 12/2

Shamrocks and Ballinhassig met on Saturday afternoon in Ballygarvan. Unfortunately from a Shamrocks point of view, the final score was Ballinhassig 7-14, Shamrocks 0-2. By all accounts and from reading the scoreline, this game was over from an early stage as Ballinhassig began their scoring spree on a wet afternoon. Team: Jack Wilson, Aaron Hickey, Stephen Hurley, Jonathon Tuohy, Alan Dunne, Cathal Kidney,  Joey Brady, Alan McCarthy, Roy Twomey, Cannice Cafferey, Brian Cusack, Darragh O’Sullivan, Stephen Downey, Donie Murphy.  There is no back door for this competition so thats the end of Shamrocks under 21 footballers for 2011. However, it was good to see Shamrocks enter an under 21 team in competition after many barren years without one and hopefully they can all come together for the hurling version in the summer. The team are all very young and have many more years ahead of them.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                               

 

Week ended – 27th February 2011

 

U15 Football V Tracton – 26/2

Shamrocks 2-4, Tracton 3-4

Shamrocks went down by a goal to Tracton in the first league game of the new league year. It was a very encouraging display in difficult circumstances from the lads on display and it bodes well for the season ahead. A theme that was repeated throughout the underage this weekend – poor player turnout – stymied the lads on duty. All our underage league competitions this year are 12 a side and we just managed to scrape together the minimum. But the players on duty gave everything they had, despite being reduced to 11 players for the last 10 minutes. Tracton were the better team in the first half with the aid of the breeze and led by 5 points at the break, 1-3 to 0-1 at half time, Alex O’Sullivan with the lone Shamrocks score. However, a half time re-evaluation seemed to work the trick as, despite an early goal consession which put Tracton 7 points up, Shamrocks never gave up and a few positional switches seemed to work. They showed great determination to claw their way back to within 3 points at the end and indeed can count themselves somewhat unlucky that 2 late attacks for the equalising goal broke down at the last stage. However, some of the lads ran themselves to a standstill and can look forward to a good years football ahead if that attitude is kept up.

On the day, David Raleigh was simply outstanding in the Shamrocks goal, he must have made 6 top class saves, including one from a penatly. Coby O’Grady continues to improve in defence. Joe O’Brien and Rory Horgan, both carrying injuries ran until they could run no more. Darragh Scriven played a lot of ball as did Andrew O’ Grady in the second half. Alex O’Sullivan led the line well all through Aonghus Boland was his usual competitive self and played very well on the wing. Next training session this Wednesday March 2nd at 4.30pm at the Track. Team: D. Raleigh, C. O’Grady, S. Kelleher, J. O’Brien, B. Crowley, R. Horgan, A. Boland, A. O’Sullivan, D. Scriven, N. Hayes, A. O’Grady.

 

Junior A Football League – 27/2

Carrigaline 1-5, Shamrocks 1-6

Shamrocks opened their Carrigdhoun/Carbery League account with a last minute win over Carrigaline in Carrigaline on Sunday afternoon last. Shamrocks timed their run to perfection as they only led for the first time with 1 minute to go after Joseph Shanahan finished off a flowing Shamrocks move to the back of the Carrigaline net. Carrigaline could rightly claim that they deserved something out of this game as they did have plenty of scoring opportunities and possession but Shamrocks nabbed them on the line. Carrigaline led 1-3 to 0-1 early on, scoring a quick goal and a couple of points. Joe Shanahan with 2 and a cracker from Cannice Cafferey left Shamrocks 1-4 to 0-3 down at halftime. Conditions were heavy and scoring was always going to be a problem and so it proved. However, the introduction of 3 Shamrocks players at halftime seemed to give Shamrocks added imputus and they gradually got on top of Carrigaline in the second half. More ball seemed to work its way inside and the forwards were unlucky at times that the ball didnt end up in the Carrig net. But it eventually did and Shamrocks took the 2 league points. While it was a bonus to take the win, everyone knows that there is an amount of work to put in which im sure the players and managament will respond to.  Next game next Sunday at home to Clan na nGael (Drimoleague) at 3pm. It was great to see 25 players togged out today as well. Team: F. O’Neill, S. Andrews, S. Herlihy, K. Hegarty, G. Ronayne, C. Brady, M. Prout, A. McCarthy, P. Lordan, B. Cusack, B. Mulqueen, C. Cafferey, D. O’Sullivan, S. Keane, J. Shanahan. Subs used – C. Ronayne, S. Collins, S. McGarry.

 

Minor Football – 27/2

Shamrocks 3-8, Tracton 2-11

Shamrocks and Tracton played out a very enjoyable draw at Shanbally and a blustery Shanbally on Sunday morning. A draw was a fair result in what was both teams first game of the year; the game was closely fought all through and bodes well for both teams as they set out on their long year of fixtures.

 

U13 Football V Clondrohid – 27/2

Clondrohid 1-7, Shamrocks 8-11

Shamrocks made the long trek to Clondrohid (outside Macroom) on Sunday afternoon last and made the journey worthwhile with a comfortable win. This was the first ever meeting between Clondrohid and Shamrocks at any level in either grade so history of a kind was made between the two clubs.

Due to a very poor turn out we had just the bare number of players travelling but that did not stop the lads from putting in a great performance on the day. Playing with the wind in the first half we got off to a great start and were leading by four points after a few minutes but Clondrohid made it very hard for the lads and at the break we were leading 2-04 to 1-00. Clondrohid started The
second half the stronger team but the lads got the first score and settled down after that to run out winners on a comfortable scoreline. Well done to Adam Jones who scored 4 goals on what was a great team performance generally.

The managemet wish to let the players know that training will commence next Saturday at 5pm at the Track.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

 

 Week ended – 13th March 2011

 

Junior A Football League V Clon na nGael – 13/3

Clon na nGael 0-10, Shamrocks 1-1.

Nothing seemed to go right for Shamrocks when they made the long trip to Drimoleague on Sunday afternoon last. The home side certainly were good footballers but Shamrocks had a frustrating afternoon all round – many wides were kicked while the home side were way more economical.

 

U13 Football V Dripsey – 13/3

Dripsey 5-6, Shamrocks 5-8.

We travelled to Dripsey for our third game of the campaign and got off to a poor start with Dripsey scoring two goalsin the first few minutes but to give credit to the lads they battled hard and got a goal and a point to keep them in touch with Dripsey.T hough we were playing with the advantage of a strong wind we were trailing Dripsey all through the first half buton the stroke of half time we got a goal to draw level on a score of 4-02 to 3-05.

Shamrocks made one substitution at the break to bring on Daniel Carroll and he made a hugh difference linking up with Christopher Hayes down the wing so much that dripsey had no reply to them. Shamrocks took the lead scoring three points before Dripsey got on the score sheet. It was end to end action at this point and Daniel Carroll got two cracking goals but Dripsey came back with a goal and two points with only a few minutes left, our keeper made some great saves to keep us in the lead and run out winners on a score line of 5-06 to 5-08. Players on duty were Cory Caffrey (his debut!), Joseph O’Keeffe, David Barry, Nathan Hayes, Cormac Scriven, Eoin Horgan, David Andrews, Christopher Hayes, Andrew O’Grady, Mark Hitchmough, Ruairi Mehigan, Killian Murphy, Shane Flavin, Christoir Corkery, David Howard.

 

U13 Football V Aghinagh – 6/3

Shamrocks 5-6, Aghinagh 5-7

Shamrocks and Aghinagh played out an absolute thriller in Shanbally on Sunday afternoon last. Well done to all players on both teams for producing a fantastic, free flowing and high scoring game. Its a pity there had to be a loser on this occasion and unfortunately for the home side, it happened to be them by the odd score in 43 points. Aghinagh had beaten this Shamrocks team by 14 points in last years under 12 county quarter final (in Aghinagh) so even looking at the bare stats of that result, Shamrocks have certainly closed the gap. Aghinagh, the most welcome of visitors to Shanbally for the first time ever, opened very brightly and tagged on 3 early points and looked threathening everytime they attacked. Shamrocks just managed to stay in touch through a couple of points from Andrew O’Grady and David Andrews followed by a goal from the ever dangerous David O’Sullivan from a penalty jusy before halftime. That left the HT score 1-4 to 1-1 for Aghinagh and at that stage Shamrocks were doing well.

The second half was non stop action and scoring. Shamrocks moved David Barry midfield and he had a massive game, he improves with every outing. Shamrocks scored 3 goals inside the 1st 5 minutes of the second half, 2 from David O’Sullivan and another flowing move from the team finished off by Andrew O’Grady. Things looked good and after Aghinagh went up the field and scored another goal, David Andrews scored another beauty to leave Shamrocks 7 points up. However, the discipline seemed to fall apart; the referee awarded Aghinagh 4 frees in front of the Shamrocks goal for mouthing to the ref and all were converted. Daniel Carroll followed by James Lynam scored a brilliant couple of points 3 minues from the end but Aghinagh’s tails were up and they finished with 2 quick goals to win by one point. The Shamrocks players afterwards were very disappointed but they can hold their heads up high as they played excellent football all through, as did the Aghinagh lads. Training next Saturday at 5pm, the Track. Players on duty: Eoin Horgan, Cormac Scriven, Nathan Hayes, Christopher Hayes, David Barry, Joe O’Keeffe, Mark Hitchmough, David O’Sullivan, Davis Andrews, Andrew O’Grady, Adam Jones, Killian Murphy, Daniel Carroll, James Lynam, Shane Flavin. Next game away to Dripsey next Sunday afternoon.

 

Junior A Football League V Munitir Bháire– 6/3

Shamrocks 1-13, Muintir Bháire 0-10

Shamrocks got their second win of the campaign after a hard fought win over our visitors from Durras on Sunday afternoon last. This was a better performance that the previous week against Carrigaline as they played more controlled football throughout, with the players linking up well when they had the ball. Muintir Bháire started very well and looked like they were going to run away with things as they led 0-4 to 0-0 after 12 minutes. However, Shamrocks started to win more ball around the middle and while the ball into the full forward line was slow to arrive at times, they started to pick off the points; beginning with Joe Shanahan after 15 minutes. Simon McGarry, who started at full forward and ended up at centre, played a pile of ball and was always available for the pass. He ended up with 0-6, 3 each from play and frees. Shamrocks led by 0-6 to 0-5 at halftime and just about kept themselves in front in the second half . Jason Browne got on the end of a move to poke home a Shamrocks goal just before the end after Muintir Bháire had really thrown everything at the Shamrocks backs. So a good start to the league years for the greens with 4 points from 4 in the new Carrigdhoun/Carbery league. Next week is a problem – nobody knows who we are playing and even worse – we dont know whether we are playing football of hurling at this stage. Irrespective, training continues on this Tuesday and Thursday night at 7.30 and 8pm respectively. Team: F. O’Neill, S. Andrews, S. Hurley, J. Tuohy, M. Prout, C. Brady, G. Ronayne, A. McCarthy, B. Mulqueen, J. Shananhan, S. Collins, D. O’Sullivan, S. McGarry, S. Keane. Subs used – C. Ronayne, K. Hegarty, J. Browne.

Again, it was great to see 26 players togged out at the start of March. Hopefully all them players will be accomodated in a Shamrocks jersey before the summer is out.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   

 

 Week ended – 20th March 2011

 

U15 Football V Grenagh – 17/3

Grenagh 2-11, Shamrocks 4-7.

We had an early start to St. Patrick’s day with an away match against Grenagh. It was an ideal morning for football. We fielded a very young team as some of our senior players were missing through injury. We started brightly and found ourselves leading through an Andrew O’Grady goal and two points from the excellent Aonghus Boland. Grenagh replied with a goal of their own and then scored three unanswered points. We got another point from the ever busy Patrick Murphy to leave us all level again as half time approached. Grenagh got three points from play in first half injury time to leave us trailing 1-07 to 1-03 at the break. Great words of encouragement were spoken at half time and the lads responded in style. Now playing with the wind we clawed our way back into the game. A David Andrews goal was followed by two points from Alex O’Sullivan. Grenagh then hit a purple patch and went 2-11 to 2-05 ahead with seven minutes to play. Some positional switches were made and resulted in us scoring 1-03 from Alex O’Sullivan (Goal) and two points from Aonghus Boland and Darragh Scriven. Deep in to injury time, David Raleigh in goal made a great save and quickly launched a counter attack which resulted in Alex O’Sullivan scoring the winning goal that left us winners by two points. Great credit is due to this young team and their never say die attitude was rewarded in the end. Team. David Raleigh, Coby O’Grady, Sean Kidney, Shane Kelleher, Joe O’Brien, Tom Murphy, Alex O’Sullivan, Darragh Scriven, Aonghus Boland, Patrick Murphy, Cormac Scriven, David Andrews, Andrew O’Grady, Brendan Crowley.

 

U15 Football V Lisgoold – 19/3

Lisgoold 1-2, Shamrocks 5-13

Shamrocks made their second away journey a winning one with a comfortable win over Lisgoold in Lisgoold on a wet Saturday afternoon. This game was the opposite of the game on St Patricks Day for Shamrocks – they were always in control, even from the first whistle and indeed could even have won by more in the end such was the dominance. However, credit to an extremely young home team – they battled all the way with only one under 15 player available on the day and they certainly deserved their beauty of a goal just before the end.

On the Shamrocks score sheet featured Oisin Boland, Alex O’Sullivan, Coby O’Grady (up from the back!), Darragh Scriven, David Andrews, Andrew O’Grady with Brian Coffan making his seasonal debut and pulling the strings at midfield. Despite being under pressure due to various circumstances pre match, we managed to get the required numbers out on the day. And to both the players and their parents we are particularly grateful, especially for a 2nd game in 3 days on a wet afternoon inEast Cork.  They travelled 100 miles since St Patricks day morning, registering 2 wins. From the management – Thank you! Players on duty – David Raleigh, Shane Kelleher, Sean Kidney, Coby O’Grady, Joe O’Brien, Mark Hitchmough, Brian Coffan, Darragh Scriven, Alex O’Sullivan, Aonghus Boland, David Andrews, Andrews O’Grady. Sub used – Patrick Murphy. Sub not used – Rory Horgan (inj).

Training next Wednesday afternoon at 4.30pm, hurling and football is cancelled. Next game is at home to Drispey next Saturday afternoon (March 26th) at 2.30pm, this is a provisional fixture depending on Féile  fixtures (under 14 hurling in other clubs). Parents will be informed as soon as information is available.

 

Junior A Hurling League V Crosshaven – 20/3

Shamrocks 1-13, Crosshaven 2-6

Shamrocks started their hurling season with a hard fought win over Crosshaven in Shanbally on Sunday afternoon last. Crosshaven had a game the previous week under their belt and it showed in the first half as they were slightly the better team, especially coming up to halftime when the scored a quickfire 1-2 to lead at the break 1-5 to 0-4, Seanán Collins, Brian Sweeney and Mickey Prout with the Shamrocks points. Shamrocks were happy enough to turn top play into the bottom goal with the breeze with that deficit to make up. And they secured 3 points in quick succession at the start of the second half and they were only a point behind. But Crosshaven broke away at the other end to punish a slip up in the Shamrocks defence to cancel out the good work at the other end. However, Shamrocks main men around the middle 1/3, like the returning Brian Sweeney at left half back, Seanán Collins at centre, Fergus O’Neill on the other wing along with Michael Prout, Alan McCarthy who hit a load of ball once he settled down and Joe Shanahan were feeding nice ball into Barry Mulqueen and Stephen Keane in the forwards who were beginning to show promise. Stephen Keane bundled home a goal and suddenly Shamrocks went in front with 10 minutes to go, a lead they didnt lose. Some of the Shamrocks scores were right out of the top drawer and will have pleased the new management team of Liam Shanahan, Jim Ronayne, Pat Murphy and Pat O’Neill going forward. Details are sketchy at this stage as to whether we’ll have a game next weekend but the management hope to have something in place. Meanwhile training for EVERYONE continues on Tuesday and Thursday nights. Team: D. O’Neill, D. Roche, C. Brady, S. Andrews, B. Sweeney, S. Collins, F. O’Neill, G. Ronayne, A. McCarthy, M. Prout, B. Mulqueen, S. Keane, C. Kidney, J. Shanahan, P. Andrews.

 

U13 Football V Cill na Martra – 20/3

Shamrocks 5-6, Cill na Martra 2-19

Cill na Martra made to long journey from an Ghaeltacht Mhuscraí a winning one as they recorded a 4 point win over a gallant Shamrocks side on Sunday afternoon last. Cill Na Martra were a good team, They started the stronger side and were 1-03 to 0-00 in the first ten minutes before Shamrocks got on the scoreboard with 1-01. There was end to end action with both teams scoring points Shamrocks (3) and Cill Na Martra (6). Then on the stroke of half time Shamrocks got a second goal to make it 2-04 to 1-09.

The second half started with Cill Na Martra getting a point and we got a third goal to level the match but Cill Na Martra seemed to be able to score points from any angle. They were better footballers and always seemed to take the right option when in possession.  They started to put a gap of eight points between the sides but to give credit to the lads they kept going and got another  goal and two points, then with about two minutes remaining Shamrocks got a fifth goal to peg it back to three points but try as they might they could not break down Cill Na Martra who got another point to run out winners on a score line of 5-06 to 2-19,

The team was Cory Caffrey, Eoin Horgan, Cormac Scriven, Joseph O’Keeffe, David Barry, Mark Hitchmough, David Andrews, Daniel Carroll, Andrew O’ Grady, David O’Sullivan, Ruairi Meighan and Killian Murphy. Subs used were Adam Jones, James Lynam, David Howard and Shane Flavin. Good to see bigger numbers togged off this week. Training continues next weekend.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

 

 Week ended – 27th March 2011

 

U13 Football V Whites Cross – 27/3

Shamrocks 3-5, Whites Cross 2-9

Once again the under 13 footballers were involved in a thriller and once again they came out on the wrong side of a single point defeat. The game started at a brisk pace with some end to end action but very little scoring;  Whitescross were first on the scoreboard and took a three point lead before the lads hit back with two points but Whitescross got another two points and then on the stroke of halftime David O’Sullivan scored a goal to level the game on a score line of 1-02 to 0-05.

We brought on Stephen Fox for his debut and he scored a great goal to give us the lead but again Whitescross got two points to keep them in touch; Shamrocks then got a goal and a point to stretch the lead but Whitescross came back and scored a goal to keep only two points between the teams. We then scored two more points and in the last few minutes Whitescross scored another goal and point to level the game and in the final minute Whitescross got a point to take the lead and run out winners on a score line of 3-05 to 2-09.

It was a great game to watch. The team was Cory Caffrey, Eoin Horgan, Cormac Scriven, Joseph O’Keeffe, Criostoir Corkery, David Barry, Mark Hitchmough, Daniel Carroll, David O’Sullivan, Christopher Hayes, Ruairi Meighan and Killian Murphy. Subs used were Adam Jones, David Howard, David Andrews, Andrew O’Grady, Stephen Fox and Shane Flavin.

The only problem now seems to be in the new underage structure, that’s the end of the under 13 football season and its not even April yet. Anyway, more information will hopefully be forthcoming at the meetings, along with hurling fixtures.

 

Junior A Football League V Kinsale – 26/3

Shamrocks 5-13, Kinsale 0-6.

The Shamrocks junior footballers got their league campaign back on winning terms after a comfortable victory over a Kinsale team; short a few regulars on the day. Last year Kinsale beat Shamrocks in the championship 1st round and the home team were determined to reverse that result from the word go. They owned possession in the first half and with some nice football being played, they stormed into an early 0-5 to 0-0 lead after 10 minutes and just kept going to half time, such was the dominance. Brian Sweeney at full forward proved a real thorn in the Kinsale side and he along with Joe Shanahan and Cathal Kidney did almost all of the 2-10 first half scoring for the greens. Barry Mulqueen at midfield was outstanding for Shamrocks (and he got a point last week in the hurling – sorry Bar!) and he along with the halfback line and his midfield partner  Alan Mac ensured that Shamrocks forwards had plenty of possession. The intensity in the second half dropped somewhat as Shamrocks emptied the bench but they still managed to put together some flowing moves, resulting in Seanán Collins, Dave O’Neill and Michael Prout scoring second half goals. Next game is against Kilmacabea (a big test against the league leaders) on Friday April 8th at home, followed by CHAMPIONSHIP against Carrigaline the week after. Team: F. O’Neill, K. Hegarty,  S. Hurley, G. Ronayne, C. Brady, M. Prout, A. McCarthy, B. Mulqueen, J. Browne, J. Shanahan, C. Kidney, J. Sweeney, B. Sweeney, D. O’Neill. Subs used – D. O’ Sullivan, S. Collins,S. Downey, J. Wilson, P. Andrews.

Shamrocks are now second in the league table, behind Kilmacebea who they play Friday week. (April 8th).

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                

 

 Week ended – 3rd April 2011

 

Minor Hurling League V Tracton – 3/4

Tracton 5-18, Shamrocks 0-1

As one can see from the scoreline, Shamrocks minor hurlers were absolutely hammered inMinaneBridgeby a very strong Tracton team on Sunday afternoon.  Shamrocks were short a few players on the day. Lack of hurling practise and games was very evident from this outing. Its hoped that this kind of scoreline will not be repeated with full atendance at training and games.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  

 

 Week ended – 10th April 2011

 

U12 Hurling V Ballinora – 7/4

Shamrocks 0-1, Ballinora 6-2

Shamrocks under 12 finally got their season off to a start with the visit of Ballinora to Shanbally on Tuesday night last. The visitors went away with the win on the night. This was Shamrocks first hurling get together of the year and its hoped that they can improve on this performance. It certainly will be a busy one for players, mentors and parents as they are down to play hurling and football games every Wednesday night up until July. Players on duty: Shane Flavin, James Lynam, Cathal Murphy, Evan Seymour, Joseph O Keeffe, Ruari Mehigan, Shane Downey, Cillian Hayes, Daniel O Mahony, Dylan O Flaherty, Luke O Driscoll, Sam Geary, Christopher Sisk, Adam Jones and Sean Browne.

 

Junior A Football League V Kilmacabea– 8/4

Shamrocks 0-9, Kilmacabea 2-12

Kilmacabea made the long trip from Leap to Shanbally on Friday evening last and came away with the 2 league points on offer. One look at the scoreline shows that Kilmacabea, sporting an unbeaten record in 2011, won by double scores. But this most certainly does not tell the story of the game as Shamrocks led with 13 minutes to go but Kilmacabea took over completely after that and finished much the stronger. They were the perfect opponents for a Shamrocks team going into championship battle next week against Carrigaline – they were big, physical, fit and were all good footballers and moved the leather real fast around the pitch.

The early exchanges were tight and it took a few minutes for the first score, from Shamrocks. Kilmacabea were putting the Shamrocks backs under sustained as they tried to work the ball in for scores but the Shamrocks defence were doing well. It was tit for tat up to halftime on the scoreboard with each side replying to the other; Shamrocks led at halftime, 0-6 to 0-5.

The second half started with light fading fast but Shamrocks got the best out of it early doors before the light faded and they couldnt see anymore. Shamrocks kicked an early beauty and  led 0-8 to 0-5. However, Kilmacabea got on top around the middle third of the field and started to chip away at the loose passes from Shamrocks. They scored a fast goal and a point to lead by one and finished with another 1-6 to Shamrocks lone point to go home the winners. However, this was an excellent workout from a Shamrocks point of view with next weeks championship in mind and with another few to come into the team possibly, they will hopefully be ready for whats expected to be a strong Carrigaline XV. Training continues this Tuesday, 7.15pm.

Our thanks to Kilmacabea for travelling all the way up and no doubt their professional approach to the game which we saw tonight will pay dividends in the Carbery championship in 2 weeks time against St Marys. We wish them well.

 

U15 Hurling V Western Gaels– 10/4

Shamrocks under 15 received a walkover after Western Gaels conceded this league game to Shamrocks in Shanbally on Sunday morning last. So our first game will be away to Dripsey on Friday night at 6.30pm. Training this Tuesday (12th) at 6pm.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

 

 Week ended – 17th April 2011

 

Minor Hurling V Western Gaels– 11/4

Shamrocks 0-6, Western Gaels 2-10

Shamrocks had 14 players togged out for this game against the visitors from Inchageelagh and Kilmichael; all gave a good spirited performance and put in a much better effort than last week. Unfortunately we gave away 2  goals in the first half which put the scoreline beyond our reach. Much more to do but the mentors were encouraged by the renewed efforts. Roy Twomey and Tony O’Mahony were the Shamrocks players to make an impression on the scoreboard.

 

U13 Hurling V Whitechurch – 13/4

Shamrocks 1-3, Whitechurch 3-5

Shamrocks played Whitechurch in their first hurling league game at under 13. The score  at half time was 2 points each. The Shamrocks players on the night showed fantastic commitment and attitude and really played their hearts out – everyone from goalie to corner forward. Second half Shamrocks got the first goal and looked good. But 2 goals in two minutes from the visitors put a stop to that. Only 12 players available to Shamrocks was the only disappointment on the night. Training next Saturday @ 4pm.

 

U15 Hurling V Dripsey – 15/4

Dripsey 2-5, Shamrocks 5-11

Shamrocks made the long journey to Dripsey on Friday night and came away with the two points in their first league game to go ahead. A few decisions regarding player placement had to be made prior to throw in but all seemed to work out in the end. Shamrocks started the brighter and led 1-2 to no score after Mark Hitchmough and Andrew O’Grady with a beautiful flicked goal from a long delivery showed what they are capable of with proper deliveries into them. The home side got to grips with the Shamrocks fast start and came way more into it and indeed drew level coming up to haltime and a tight game looked on the cards. They even went ahead just on haltime and the Shamrocks lads heads were down. It was 2-4 to 1-4 for Dripsey at halftime.

However, they had played well in that half and the skills that they had been covering in training were evident at times, improvement was noticable. This was stressed to them at halftime and along with the switching of Joe O’Brien onto the best Dripsey forward and Cormac Scriven into goal, it transformed the game. The second half was one of the most complete performances from a Shamrocks hurling team in a good while. They outscored Dripsey 4-8 to 0-2 in that time and indeed could have had more. The entire team upped their game, used the spaces a lot better and the selectors at the end were more than happy with what they had seen. It is unfair to single out individual players but two of our under 13 players, Mark Hitchmough with 0-7 from play (left and right) and Andrew O’Grady with 4-1 from play have to get a mention. They have improved their striking along with many others on the panel but need to do more; this is only one game. Parents will get a text regarding next training session but its provisionally fixed for Tuesday evening. The next hurling game is at home to Grenagh next Thursday evening at 7pm. Team: J. O’Brien, B. Crowley, S. Kidney, S. Kelleher, C. O’Grady, C. Scriven, R. Horgan, B. Coffan, D. Scriven, A. Boland, T. Murphy, A. O’Grady, M. Hitchmough.

 

Junior A Football Championship V Carrigaline – 16/4

Carrigaline 2-8, Shamrocks 0-10

This was a most disappointing result for Shamrocks in Round 1 of the championship last Suturday night inCamden. Its difficult to put the finger on where this flat performance came from – the training had gone well the last few months, the challenge and league games had gone well, the spirit was good, confidence was high and players seemed to be coming into form at the right time. And to go out and not perform on the championship stage is hard to take.

Shamrocks were very slow to settle – the Shamrocks full back line was under constant pressure from the word go due to Carrigalines dominance around the middle third of the pitch. When Carrigaline didnt score, they were fouled and they made most of the frees. Joe Shanahan had earlier replied to Carrigalines two early points but Carrigaline turned the screw a bit thereafter and before Shamrocks knew it, Carrigaline were 1-5 to 0-2 ahead. Shamrocks sorted out their difficulties with numerous switches and only trailed by 1-6 to 0-5 at halftime; I say only because they were outplayed for long spells of that half.

The second half promised a comeback from Shamrocks as they got more into the game and started feeding the inside forwards much needed possession. They reduced the gap to 2 points midway through the second half, through Simon McGarry who tried hard throughout. However, a defensive slip let in Carriglaine and they utilised the overlap to finish to the net. This was effectively game over as they led 2-7 to 0-7 and the Shamrocks heads dropped a little. The rest of the game was basically Shamrocks trying desperately to try and get at least 1 goal but Carrigaline threw loads of players inside the 21 yard line to protect the goal. And it worked as they held on comfortably for the 4 point win. Mickey Prout drove over a free with the last kick of the game but it was way too late at that stage.

Shamrocks reward is a back door game against Kinsales second team next Saturday night, at a venue yet to be decided. They must first pick themselves up and make the long journey West to Aughaville to play Tadhg MacCárthaighs on this Tuesday night at 8pm.

Team: Fergus O’Neill, Jonathan Tuohy, Stephen Hurley, Sanan Andrews, Michael Prout, Cathal Kidney, Gary Ronayne, Alan McCarthy, Barry Mulqueen, Simon McGarry, Joseph Shanahan, Paul Lordan, Darragh O’Sullivan, Seanán Collins, Cannice Cafferey. Subs used – Cian Ronayne, Jamie Sweeney.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  

 

 Week ended – 24th April 2011

 

Junior A Football League V Tadhg MacCárthaighs– 19/4

Tadgh MacCárthaighs 0-15, Shamrocks 0-12.

After the disappointment of the previous Saturday night (below), Shamrocks had to pick themselves up and make the long trip to Aughaville to play the home side in the latest round of the league. With 4 teams from Carbery in our section, this was the last long journey west but it could turn out to be a useful exercise with the game against Kinsale coming up on Saturday night in the championship. Shamrocks needed to get the bad display from Saturday night out of the system and on this occasion, they largely did; but as usual they mixed the good with the bad.

However, with an eye on the upcoming championship game, Shamrocks finished very well and indeed can count themselves a bit unlucky that they didnt come away with at least a point for their efforts. The first half was all different. On a huge pitch, Shamrocks started brightly and Joe Shanahan and Brian Sweeney had Shamrocks 2 points up early. However, once again, turnovers were to prove costly as from there to the break, Tadhg MacCárthaighs punished every loose Shamrocks pass and kick. They stormed into an 0-8 to 0-2 lead and a drubbing looked likely. However, Shamrocks steadied the ship coming up to halftime and went in losing 0-10 to 0-5 at the break – it could have been much worse.

After a few words were spoken at halftime, Shamrocks were a transformed team in the second half and completely dominated exchanges. More so possession, less so the scoreboard. They got as close as 0-13 to 0-11 behind with 10 minutes to go but MacCárthaigh were way more ecomomical with their limited possession and they just about kept Shamrocks at bay. But, it was an encouraging second half response to a mini crisis. Throughout the game, Shanahan did the bulk of the scoring along with contributions from Sweeney, Alan McCarthy and sub Stephen Keane.

 

U15 Hurling V Grenagh – 21/4

Shamrocks 5-10, Grenagh 5-15

Grenagh under 15 hurlers were the visitors to Shanbally on a lovely Thursday evening for hurling and they left with the points after a thoroughly entertaining hours hurling. Both teams are to be commended for serving up 35 scores between them and some of the Shamrocks players simply ran themselves to a standstill throughout. Unfortunately, Grenagh had only the 12 players so it was 12 a side. This certainly leads to plenty of scores and tired bodies at the end.

Its a bit hard to map out a report for the pattern of this game as so much was happening. Shamrocks started bright and Mark Hitchmough and Rory Horgan from midfield scored early goals. However, it wasnt long before Grenagh showed that they were a cut above the Dripsey team that Shamrocks beat the previous week. They had 2 excellent half forwards and one in particular, who is on theCorkunder 15 team, gave Shamrocks all sorts of problems for the whole hour. The game plan revolved around stopping this player; Joe O’Brien did as good a job as anyone could expect and in fact was on top of him for long spells of the second half. It was a great tussle. So as the goals and points were flying in at either end, the scoreboard was kept busy. After a great first half, Grenagh led 2-10 to 2-5 at half time.

The second half was tight all through and again, the scores kept coming. Shamrocks played their best hurling in this period with each player contributing throughout the hour. This bunch of players have been putting it in on the training pitch and one can see an improvement from game to game. Cormac Scriven in goals had a great outing and dealt with the numerous high balls that came in. Rory Horgan and Andrew O’Grady added second half goals along with points from O’ Brien (65), Aonghus Boland (who ran himself to a standstill) and Darragh Scriven who got 3 points from play from wing forward. It was also good to see Daniel O’Reilly making a comeback and playing well at centre back.

So overall, eventhough they became one of the few Shamrocks teams to score 5-10 in a hurling match but still lose, things look bright for this bunch of players and it is hoped to keep them together for a while yet as they can do some damage over the next few years. They improve with every game. Next game is supposed to be against Clondrohid next Wednesday but that game looks unlikely as the Minors are playing the same night. We’ll let you know whats happening.

Team: C. Scriven, B. Crowley, C. O’ Grady, S. Kelleher, J. O’Brien, S. Kidney, R. Horgan, B. Coffin, A. Boland, D. Scriven, A. O’Grady, M. Hitchmough. Subs used – D. O’Reilly, D. Andrews, T. Murphy.

 

Junior A Football Championship V Kinsale– 23/4

Shamrocks 1-11, Kinsale 1-6.

Shamrocks, as expected, are through to the quarter finals of the football championship after yet another mixed performance in Riverstick on Saturday evening last. The game followed the predictable pattern of recent Shamrocks performances – mixing the good with the bad, not knowing what was going to happen next. But when it mattered most, when things weren’t going their way at halftime, Shamrocks dominated the last half an hour to book their place in the quarters.

Both teams found it hard to settle and the first half was low scoring. Shamrocks old failings of continued unforced turnovers surfaced again, and they gave Kinsale ample opportunities to set up attacks. Cannice Caffrey opened the scoring and Seanán Collins knocked over a free but then Kinsale punished some slack defending to bury the ball in the back of Fergus O’Neills goal. Amazingly Kinsale were ahead and Shamrocks looked rattled. The halftime whistle couldnt come quick enough as Kinsale led 1-4 to 0-5, Darragh O’Sullivan and Caffrey adding to the Shamrocks total.

Again, some strong words were exchanged at halftime and along with a few positional switches, Shamrocks re entered the field knowing that unless they put in 30 minutes of good football, the championship season for 2011 would be over already. They got the perfect start when from the very first attack, Seanán Collins slotted home a Shamrocks goal and this was the fillip the greens needed. Kinsale responded with 2 quick points from their centre forward to lead 1-6 to 1-5. But, as it turned out, theses were their last scores of the game. Starting with the backs, who tightened up considerably and the midfield who won lots more possession, they turned the screw, without running away with the game. Brian Sweeney’s point seemed to give Shamrocks the extra push and further points from Caffrey, Gary Ronayne and Collins again from a long range free and another from play finished out the scoring.

As said above, Shamrocks now go into the draw for the Quarters which I believe is an open draw, and the games are down for the weekend of July 2nd. In the meantime, attention switches to hurling. Team: F. O’ Neill, S. Andrews, C. Brady, K. Hegarty, M. Prout, C. Kidney, G. Ronayne, A. McCarthy, B. Mulqueen, S. McGarry, J. Shanahan, B. Sweeney, S. Collins, D. O’ Sullivan, C. Caffrey. Subs used – C. Ronayne, S. Keane. It was great to see 27 players togged out on the night.

Also, the club wishes Colin Brady a speedy revovery from injury he suffered during the game. We all hope he makes a quick and full recovery.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  

 

 Week ended – 1^st May 2011

 

Junior A Hurling League V Ballinhassig – 26/4

Ballinhassig 1-17, Shamrocks 0-9.

Shamrocks had to get themselves over the football preperation and make the trip to Ballinhassig on Tuesday night last for hurling league game. Shamrocks were short a number of regulars for this encounter through various reasons and eventually had to give way to a very strong Ballinhassig XV. The players on duty gave their all for the jersey and the management were been very happy with the comittment shown. Some of our more promising younger players made their first competitive start at Junior level and aqquitted themselves well. There is way more to come out of them

Team: D. O’ Neill, D. Roche, S. Collins, J. Browne, T. O’ Mahony, B. Mulqueen,  F. O’ Neill, M. Prout, A. McCarthy, B. Cusack, J. Shanahan, R. Twomey, J. Sweeney, S. Keane, S. O’ Neill. Subs used – J. Wilson,S. Downey. Check out Latest News for hurling information.

 

U12 Football V Tracton– 27/4

Shamrocks travelled to play Tracton on Wednesday night are were beaten by Tracton. The Shamrocks team on the night were without a bunch of the more experienced players. However, seven u10′s played on the night. They battled hard and showed a true fighting spirit, they never gave up and they battled to the end. Three of the under 10 players were outstanding on the night, David Fox, Michael Hammet and Dylan O Flaherty. Team on duty were Evan Seymour, Cathal Murphy, Michael Hammet,  Shane Flavin, Daniel O Mahony, Ruairi Mehigan, Shane Downey, David Fox, Dylan O Flaherty, Sean Browne, Luke O Driscoll,  Jody Sisk and Sam Geary.

 

U15 Football V Dripsey – 2/4

Shamrocks 3-9, Dripsey 2-5

Shamrocks had a rather easy win over Dripsey who scored 1-1 in the last couple of minutes to put a bit of respectability on the scorebaord. Thje game was over by halftime as Shamrocks lead 3-4 to 1-1 and the forwards had clicked nicely by this stage. The foot naturally came off the gas a little bit in the second half by Shamrocks had done enough to finish on 6 points out of a possible 8 in the league, possibly with a playoff to come later on in the year.

 

Under 10 Football Blitz  – 30/4 

Shamrocks under 10 footballers were in action in Carrigaline GAA club last Sunday morning (May 15th).They played three games against Carrigaline opposition; each game lasting twelve mins. A big thank you to Hughie Kelleher and Carrigaline for inviting us which was a very useful run out for these young lads.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  

 

 Week ended – 15th May 2011

 

Under 10 Football Blitz – 15/5

Shamrocks under 10 footballers were in action in Carrigaline GAA club last Sunday morning (May 15th).They played three games against Carrigaline opposition; each gamelasting twelve mins. A big thank you to Hughie Kelleher and Carrigaline for inviting us which was a very useful run out for these young lads.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   

 

 Week ended – 23rd May 2011

 

Junior A Hurling League – 15/5

Newcestown 3-13, Shamrocks 2-6

The long trip to Newcestown on Sunday afternoon last resulted in a 10 point defeat to the home side. A couple of things need to be pointed out here before we move onto a match report.

This was Shamrocks first match since the death of our teammate and friend Kieran Hegarty RIP and a minutes silence was observed impecably before the throw in by both sides, the 26 Shamrocks players togged off linking arms in rememberence of Kieran. As a result of the recent tragic events, Shamrocks preperation in hurling had been seriously curtailed so this was really a trip into the unknown in more ways than one as it had also been many years since we had played Newcestown. Also, we were missing 4 of our more prominent players through work and injury. It really is times like this that we need everyone on board, for the difficult championship game against Valley Rovers on Wednesday night, in Ballinhassig, at 7.30pm. However, as pointed out, after the earlier struggles with getting hurlers out on the field, it was great to see 26 players, young and old, ready for action in a Shamrocks jersey down inWest Cork.

Newcestown played with the strong breeze in the first half and led 0-9 to 1-4 at halftime, Dave O’Neill with the Shamrocks goal along with Darragh O’Sullivan and Joseph Shanahan from play and Mickey Prout from a free accounting for the points. It wasnt a bad return for a rusty team in the circumstances and Shamrocks were well in it turning to play with the breeze in the second half.

However, the gap in the pure hurling standard between the two teams was way more evident in the second half and despite Shamrocks somehow drawing back to 4 points down with 3 minutes left, Newcestown got 2 goals in injury time to run out comfortable winners. Stephen Keane with the Shamrocks goal.

or obvious reasons, things are rushed going into Thursday nights championship match but all we can do is drive on to training on Tuesday evening at 7.30pm. Hopefully the game will bring us on.

Team: C. O’Sullivan, J. Browne, D. Roche, S. Andrews, S. Bourke, A. McCarthy, C. Kidney, M. Prout, J. Shanahan, S. O’Neill, F. O’Neill, G. Ronayne, D. O’Neill, S. Keane, D. O’Sullivan. Subs (used) – T. O’Mahony, R. Twomey, J. Tuohy, J. Sweeney, C. Ronayne, (not used)S. Downey, J. Wilson, P. Brady, P. Andrews, D. Bourke, B. Cusack.

 

Non Exam Football League – 17/5

Shamrocks 3-7, Kanturk 6-11

A high scoring win for our visitors to Shanbally after a long trek South. Shamrocks had missed out on their first game the week before while Kanturk had played their game so they were that bit sharper at the start. So much so that they scored 4 goals inside the first 10 minutes to effectively end the game there and then. Shamrocks tried manfully throughout the remainder of the game but found the gap way too much, but they never gave up nevertheless. Kanturk led 4-5 to 2-2 at halftime and ran out comfortable winners in the second half. Shamrocks goals came from Damien Kelleher with two and Tony O’Mahony. Team: C. O’Mahony, A. Dunne, C. Walter, S. O’Brien, P. Barry, T. O’Mahony, J. Raleigh, R. Horgan, R. Twomey, D. Kelleher, S. Horgan, J. Lynch.

 

Under 13 Football Championship – 18/5

We played Carrig na bhFear on Wednesday evening in the football championship; there was end to end action but it was Carrig na bhFear who settled first and took a four point lead before we got on the scoreboard with two points from David O’ Sullivan.
Carrig na bhFear playing with a strong breeze increased the lead further with a goal and three points to go in at the break on a score line of 0-02 to 1-07.

The second half started briskly and Carrig na bhFear got a goal immediatly from the throw in but the lads battled for everything and scored 2-02 to peg it back to within four points and were on top at this stage but could not keep it going and Carrig na bhFear came back with 2-01, Shamrocks drove on to score 1-03 from play but could not close the gap and Carrig na bhFear got a furthur two points to run out winners on a score line of 3-08 to 4-10.

Team: C . Corkery, D. Barry, N. Hayes, J. O’ Keeffe, C. Scriven, E. Horgan, D. Andrews, M. Hitchmough, A. O’ Grady, D. O’ Sullivan, C. Hayes, K. Murphy. Subs –  D. Carroll, R. Meighan, S. Flavin, S. Fox, A. Jones and J. Lynam.

 

Junior A Hurling Championship – 19/5

Valley Rovers 2-9, Shamrocks 0-8

Shamrocks lost their first round game in the hurling championship in Ballinhassig on Thursday night last. The Rovers had a strong second 15 out and it was always going to be a tough ask for a Shamrocks team who could have done with a few more weeks preparation. However, despite the 7 point defeat, this was an encouraging display from them and the scoreline flattered Rovers somewhat. The game basically came down to the ability of Rovers to score goals at vital times; goals that killed the Shamrocks challenge really; while at the other end the lack of even creating a goal scoring opportunity stymied the Shamrocks challenge.

The early exchanges were tight as a heavy shower made life difficult for all players. Valleys went 2 points up but Shamrocks responded through a couple of frees from Mickey Prout. However, then came the first Rovers goal and it really was a gift for them to push on. They went 4 points up and that gap remained to halftime (1-4 to 0-3) and beyond as both team matched each other, the Shamrocks display a few notches up from the previous one. But yet again, Rovers stole in for a soft goal after hesitation in the defence and that was game over with 10 minutes to go. Joseph Shanahan had taken over free taking duties and did well while Mickey Prout knocked over a beauty from play. However, the Rovers kept Shamrocks at arms length in the second half to progress.

The game will definetly bring Shamrocks on and after the last few weeks, if the hurling can be focused on in training, they will be well set for the Crosshaven back door game around June 12^th. They play Bandon next Wednesday in the league at home. Again, it was great to see 26 players togged out with a few more to come onto that as well.

Team: C. O’Sullivan, J. Tuohy, S. Collins, S. Andrews, J. Browne, A. McCarthy, C. Kidney, M. Prout, G. Ronayne, F. O’Neill, B. Mulqueen, J. Shanahan, T. O’Mahony, S. Keane, D. O’Sullivan. Subs used – S. O’Neill, C. Ronayne, S. Bourke.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

 

 Week ended – 30th May 2011

 

U12 Football League V Kilmichael – 24/5

Shamrocks 10-5, Kilmichael 7-11

Our under 12 footballers played Kilmichael in Shanbally last Tuesday evening. It was the first time this year that we had a full panel to choose from so expectations were high before throw in. Our lads raced into an early lead with goals from David O Sullivan, Joseph O Keeffe and Shane Flavin and could of had a few more but for some great saves from the visiting goalkeeper. The scoreboard read Shamrocks 4-4 Kilmichael 1-7 at half time.

Kilmichael started brightly in the second half and scored a few goals in the opening minutes but our lads got a couple back to ensure that our supporters went home happy having witnessed a highly entertaining contest. Team on duty were Adam Jones, Cathal Murphy, Evan Seymour, Michael Hammet, James Lynam, Daniel O Mahony, Cillian Hayes, Steven Fox, Ruairi Mehigan, Joseph O Keeffe, David O Sullivan, Dylan O Flaherty, David Fox, Shane Flavin, Shane Downey and Keith O Donoghue Howe.

 

Junior A Hurling League – 25/5

Shamrocks 0-8, Bandon 4-16

Shamrocks were extremely short for this particular game and paid the ultimate price against a Bandon team who knew how to hurl. Some of the players who havent featured this year much got the full hour and the players on duty cannot be faulted for effort. The strong breeze blowing right down the pitch and the slippery conditions in the second half made it difficult at time. Shamrocks played with the elements in the first half but Bandon, playing up the hill, were sharper in that period and led 2-10 to 0-5 at halftime. They were always going to win but Shamrocks rejigged the team a bit and we saw a better performance from the home side against the elements despite the scoreline, some of the new younger players showing up well. Training this Friday evening at 7.30pm. Team: R. Twomey, J. Browne, S. Collins, D. O’ Neill, B. Cusack, A. McCarthy, C. Kidney, J. Shanahan, C. Ronayne, S. O’ Neill, T. O’Mahony, P. Brady, J. Wilson, P. Andrews,S. Downey.

 

Sponsored Walk – 26/5

Thanks to all the parents and young players, both boys and girls, who turned up and took part in our sponsored walk on Thursday night last (May 26th). There was a bigger crowd than usual and we raised much need funds for the underage clubs, boys and girls football. Thanks also to John Twomey (Ring) for organising the event and to Garda Damien Craven who was on hand to give any assistance.

 

Under 11 Hurling – 27/5

Our under 11 hurlers took part in a blitz in Cobh on Friday night last.The lads played four 15 minute games against Passage ,Crosshaven and two teams from Cobh.This was a very worthwhile experience for our lads and the improvement was there to be seen as the games went on. Players on duty were Evan Seymour, Cathal Murphy, Daniel O Mahony, Michael Hammet, Cillian Hayes, Shane Downey, Harry Andrews, Dylan O Flaherty, Sam Geary and Luke O Driscoll.

 

Under 8′s Football

Shamrocks have entered this new competition and the fixtures are in the fixtures section. The whole thing is modeled on the Go Games concept – non competitive. Shamrocks have the option of playing hurling as well against the same opponents. First game Saturday June 18th home to Whites Cross. Lets hope to see some new mentors getting involved to help out the already existing ones.

 

U11 Hurling Blitz – 27/5

Our under 11 hurlers took part in a blitz in Cobh on Friday night last.The lads played four 15 minute games against Passage, Crosshaven and two teams from Cobh. This was a very worthwhile experience for our lads and the improvement was there to be seen as the games went on. Players on duty were Evan Seymour, Cathal Murphy, Daniel O Mahony, Michael Hammet, Cillian Hayes, Shane Downey, Harry Andrews, Dylan O Flaherty, Sam Geary and Luke O Driscoll.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

 

Week ended – 12th June 2011

 

Hurling Training in Monkstown NS (June 1st)

Shamrocks underage, in conjunction with Martin Coleman GDA for Carrigdhoun/Muskerry, organised for Mr John Grainger of UCC hurling club to coach the 2nd and 3rd class pupils ofMonkstownNSin the school. It started this Wednesday morning and continues every Wednesday morning for the month of June. It will be great for the young boys and girls of the school to experience our wonderful games, many of them for the first time. We are indebted to John for doing the coaching and for the management and teachers of the school for giving us the opportunity to try out this venture.

 

CountyBoardDraw

Congratulations to Fergal Mee who claimed 2nd prize in the May Draw of the Cork County Board GAA clubs Draw. He won €4000. Well done Fergal.

 

Junior A Football League V Valley Rovers– 8/6

Shamrocks 2-5, Valley Rovers 0-5

No report received.

 

John Kerins Memorial Tournament – 11/6

Shamrocks under 11 footballers played in the annual John Kerins Memorial Tournament in Pairc Ui Rinn on Saturday 11th of June. This was a new experience for most of these lads to play in such a big arena with such a large crowd watching on. We were drawn against Whitechurch in the semi final while our neighbours Passage were paired with Mayfield in the other semi final. We got off to the worst possible start and conceded two early goals to a strong Whitechurch side who were defending their title. The score at half time read Whitechurch 2-2 Shamrocks 2 points courtesy of Cillian Hayes and Dylan O Flaherty. Shamrocks started brightly in the second half and scored three points without reply but unfortunately for the lads were unable to get that all important goal to draw level. Whitechurch scored a late goal to clinch a place in the final which they went on to win for the second year in a row. Final score Whitechurch 3-2 Shamrocks 5 points. Well done to all involved. Best on the day for Shamrocks were captain Cathal Murphy and Sean Andrews. Players on duty were David Murphy, Cathal Murphy, Evan Seymour, Michael Hammet, Daniel O Mahony, Shane Downey, Cillian Hayes, Dylan O Flaherty, David Fox, Sean Browne, Seán Andrews. Luke O Driscoll. Jody Sisk. Cillian O Mahony and Harry Andrews.

 

Junior Hurling League/Jack Barrett Memorial Cup – 11/6

Kinsale 4-14, Shamrocks 3-6

No report received

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

 

 Week ended – 19th June 2011

 

Under 11 Hurling Blitz – 19/6

Our U11 hurlers played another blitz on Saturday last in Crosshaven. We played three 15 minute games against Cobh,Crosshaven and Passage. The lads coped very well in all games especially against Passage. It was commented by the referee after the blitz that the Shamrocks/Passage game was the game of the Tournament. These games are proving very beneficial as the improvement is there to be seen by all. Team on duty was Cathal Murphy, Evan Seymour, Dylan O Flaherty, Cillian Hayes, Daniel O Mahony, Shane Downey, Sean Andrews, Sam Geary, Sean Browne, Michael Hammet and Harry Andrews. Thanks to Crosshaven for their hospitality.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

 

Week ended – 26th June 2011

 

Junior A Hurling Championship V Crosshaven – 22/6

Shamrocks 1-14, Crosshaven 2-9

No report received.

 

Minor Football League – 7/8

Clondrohid 2-7, Shamrocks 1-4

We made the long journey west last Sunday to play the home team in the minor football league. The game started brightly for a young Shamrocks team and we soon found ourselves leading after 20 minutes on a scoreline of 1-01 to 0-02. A torrential downpour for the remainder of the first half left both teams struggling to play any football whatsoever. We regrouped at half time and tried to dry off as best we could so we could try and get back playing again in the second half.

 

Junior A Football League V Ballygarvan – 26/6

Ballygarvan 4-14, Shamrocks 1-12

No report received. Halftime score was 2-6 to 1-7 for Ballygarvan. Ballygarvan pulled away in the second half.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

 

Week ended – 10th July 2011

 

Minor Football League V Aghinagh – 26/6

Visitors Aghinagh had a comfortable win over Shamrocks in Shanbally on Sunday afternoon. Shamrocks were down a number of regulars and are struggling to field full strength teams in the summer; hence the comprehensive defeat here.

 

Junior A Football League V Courcey Rovers – 30/6

Shamrocks 1-22, Courcey Rovers 1-8

No report received.

 

U8 Football V Whites Cross – 6/7

Shamrocks under 8′s played Whites Cross footballers in Shanbally on Wednesday the 6th July. The match eventually went ahead after a
torrential downpour and thankfully stayed dry for the duration. We fielded a team of fifteen players on the night,  each player getting plenty of time on the pitch to show their talent to the large following of parents and supporters who were entertained from start to finish. If these lads are to progress we need the parents to get involved and help out. Players on duty were Harry Andrews, Cian O Flaherty, Fionn Mehigan, Declan Carroll, Robert Van Pelt, Shane Donnegana, Michael Foy, Callum Power, Adam Maye, Nathan O Sullivan, Adam McSweeney, Fionn
Herlihy, Sam Creamer, Mark Sisk and Adam Maginty.

 

Bag Packing

The underage took part in bag packing in Dunnes Stores, Carrigaline from Friday July 1st (5pm to 10pm) and Saturday July 2nd (10am to 6pm) to raise funds for the club. This was a big undertaking and our thanks to all the parents who helped out; as well as the boys and girls themselves.

 

Shamrocks Bi-Annual Golf Classic – 4/7

The Club held a very successful Golf Classic on Monday July 4th at Monkstown GC. Thanks to everyone who took part and to our organisers, mainly Alan Geary, Liam Shanahan, John Twomey (Shanbally), Mark Hickey of the Shamrock Bar and Darragh Collins. Also, congratulations to the winning team of Tony Whitnell, Martin O’Donovan and Paddy Cronin.

 

Junior A Football Championship Quarter Final V Tracton– 10/7

Tracton 2-9, Shamrocks 0-14.

Tracton continued to hold the balance of power in the SE Junior A Football Championship following this victory over great rivals Shamrocks at Camden. In a repeat pairing of last years decider, the holders were in command until they had to withstand a late rally by Shamrocks which yielded two unanswered points by Joe Shanahan and Cian Ronayne in the closing stages.

Shamrocks started the brighter and Philip Brady opened the scoring. Tracton soon went in front when they opened their scoring with a goal following a free. Joe Shanahan replied with a point for Shamrocks but Tracton scored the next point. The sides traded points soon after (Ronayne) before Shamrocks scored two unanswered points through Simon McGarry and Cannice Cafferey and the game was level. However, Tracton grabbed that all important second goal straight after and Shamrocks had to start all over again. This they did manfully and despite Tracton scoring two points of their own, Shamrocks played some impressive football coming up to HT and managed to go in level after a high quality half from both teams. Philip Brady x 2, Cathal Kidney, Stephen Keane and Darragh O’Sullivan did the Shamrocks scoring coming up to HT. The second half was very closely fought between two good teams and despite Shamrocks going ahead in the 34th minute through McGarry from a free, Shamrocks just couldnt hold on and Tracton went through to the semi final.

Team: F. O’Neill, J. Tuohy, C. Brady, S. Andrews, G. Ronayne, C. Kidney, M. Prout, B. Sweeney, A. McCarthy, S. McGarry, J. Shanahan, P. Brady, C. Cafferey, S. Keane, D. O’Sullivan. Subs used – S. Collins, P. Lordan.

(Report courtesy of the Evening Echo)

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  

 

Week ended – 17th July 2011

 

U11 Football Blitz – 14/7

Thanks to all who helped out with the hosting of the very successful U11 football blitz in Shanbally last Thursday
between Passage, Cobh & Shamrocks. The three teams were very evenly matched and some excellent performances were given on all sides. Special thanks to all the parents who helped out by providing refreshments to all the teams and parents. The kitchen was in full swing and the teams were well fed and looked after. Thanks also to Sid Kidney who refereed all the matches. He received compliments from all sides for his handling of the games even though he brought some rugby rules into play. We had to tell him that the ball was round and the
correct shape. He also was informed that any time the ball was passed forward that is was not a foul. Thanks to Jed and Dick for looking after our own lads.
This team has great potential and are being well trained by these two lads.

 

Minor Football League V Clondrohid – 13/7

No result or report received; but Shamrocks were well beaten on this occasion.

 

Junior A Hurling League – 17/7

Shamrocks 0-18, O’Donovan Rossa 1-8

No report received.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                

 

 Week ended – 24th July 2011

 

U8 Football and Hurling V Ballinacurra – 19/7

Our under 8′s were in action in Ballinacurra on Tuesday last. The lads played 20 mins of hurling followed by 20 mins of Football. The two games were highly entertaining and a lot of skill and commitment were shown on the night. Team on duty were Robert Van Pelt, Shane Donnegana, Adam Maginty, Adam Maye, Harry Andrews, Sam Creamer, Cian O Flaherty, Adam McSweeney and Nathan O Sullivan.

 

U13 HL V Whitescross – 19/7

Shamrocks were very short of players for this game due to some lads being on holidays, so with only eleven players we played Whitescross in a very entertaining game of hurling and even though the lads had not played any hurling matches for three months you could see from the throw in that they were eager; they took an early lead with some great point scoring and two quick goals to settle down and were in control all through the game. Whitescross did score two goals and five points but Shamrocks were the stronger team on the night and ran out comfortable winners. There was some great individual performances and it was a pleasure to watch both teams play some very entertaining hurling. The team was C. Scriven, N. Hayes, D. O’Sullivan, M. Hitchmough, E. Horgan, A. O’Grady, D. Andrews, C. Hayes, J. O’ Keeffe, S. Flavin and K. Murphy.

 

U13 HL V Cloyne – 20/7

We travelled to Cloyne to play our second match in two nights. This was a very hard fought game compared to our game the previous night. Shamrocks scored two points and then got a goal to take a five point lead only to see Cloyne reduce it to two points but the lads kept going and scored three more goals and another point. Cloyne got two more points before the break for Shamrocks to lead on a score line of 0-05 to 4-03.  The second half was much tougher and both teams were more evenly matched with Cloyne scoring 1-04 and Shamrocks scoring 1-02 for Shamrocks to eventually run out winners on a scoreline of 1-09 to 5-05. Again it was a very entertaining game to watch.

 

Junior A Hurling Championship Quarter Final – 24/7

Ballinhassig 4-12, Shamrocks 2-8

A slicker Ballinhassig second team showed Shamrocks the exit door from the championship at the quarter final stage this morning at Carrrigaline and pushed them through it after a fine hours hurling. Shamrocks started well and played well up to the 6th minute after which Ballinhassig took over. Stephen O’Neill got the early Shamrocks goal and did most of the Shamrocks scoring over the hour, mostly from placed balls. Shamrocks led 1-3 to 0-2 at that stage but then Ballinhassig got completely on top of the Shamrocks half forward line and midfield and started to feed plenty ball to their inside forwards, they just knew what to do with the ball most of the time. Shamrocks couldnt win a puckout for the next 20 minutes and indiscipline crept in, Shamrocks started to give away frees all over the field. Still, coming right up to halftime Shamrocks were only 4 points behind 1-8 to 1-4 despite being completely outplayed by overall better hurlers, certainly a more threathening attack. Then Ballinhassig struck for two quick goals and we all thought it was game over at HT, 3-8 to 1-4. It really was a chastising experience for Shamrocks in that first half.

However, the second half was a diferent story up until the 28th minute when Ballinhassig finished off with 1-2. Shamrocks regigged their team and really tore into Ballinhassig. They scored a few early points and Stevie O’Neill scored a major from a 21 yard free. 3-8 to 2-5. Straight away, the same player had a penalty saved on the line and this really was the closest Shamrocks came to getting really back in the game as that was the last real goalscoring chance they created. The next 11 minutes were played without a score and that suited Ballinhassig as they led then by 3-10 to 2-7 with 10 left. Heart can only get you so far though when your up against a better balanced hurling team and Ballinhassig finished the stronger to win by a slightly flattering 11 points, considering Shamrocks excellent effort in the 3rd quarter.

So, Shamrocks hurling championship season is over for another year. When you contrast the two clubs from a hurling point of view you get scorelines like this, even against their second team. The Ballinhassig parish revolves around their hurling pitch, and their players have all played Premier Minor and U21 A Championship. Shamrocks on the other hand, up until last year, didnt even have a Minor or u21 hurling team for the past number of seasons. In fact, its quite amazing that Shamrocks finished the game with 5 under 21′s. We need to start coaching hurling properly at underage (less focus on football) and to start attracting both mentors and extra players. Until that happens, we will not compete with the Ballinhassigs of this world.

Team: R. Twomey, C. Brady, S. Collins, S. Andrews, A. McCarthy, B. Sweeney, J. Tuohy, M. Prout, C. Ronayne, G. Ronayne, F. O’Neill, C. Kidney, S. Keane, S. O’Neill, J. Shanahan. Subs used – J. Raleigh, J. Browne.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                               

 

 

Week ended – 31st July 2011

 

U15 HL V Ballygarvan – 27/7

Ballygarvan 5-8, Shamrocks 2-9

Shamrocks played Ballygarvan in Shanbally on Wednesday evening in very wet conditions. In the first half both teams played some great hurling with Shamrocks first on the score board and were leading by four points to three when Shamrocks got a goal only for Ballygarvan to cancel that out immediatly. Shamrocks then got two more points but a mix up in our defence let Ballygarvan in for a second goal just before halftime to make it 1-06 to 2-03.The second half began with Ballygarvan getting another goal and three points before the lads got on the score board but at this stage Ballygarvan were well on top and we could not get back in to the game and even though the lads played their hearts out and never gave up we could only manage 1-03 and Ballygarvan scored 3-06 from play in the second half to run out 7 point winners on the night.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

 

Week ended – 14th August 2011

 

Junior Football League V Ballinhassig – 2/8

Shamrocks 0-16, Ballinhassig 4-1

A strange game and result at Shanbally on Tuesday evening but Shamrocks held on for the 3 point win. With both teams being out of the championship coming into the game, it was always going to be a low key affair with Shamrocks having that bit more to play for as they can still reach the league semi finals. Both teams were short a number of regulars but it gave the home side anyway an opportunity to play some of our younger players, indeed the  forward line that finished the game was extremely young.

Just looking at the scoreline tells you it was 16 scores to 5 yet Ballinhassig nearly won this game on a limited amount of possession. They proved to be plucky opponents and despite being outplayed for long spells, gave themselves a fighting chance of getting something from the game entering the last 5 minutes. However, Shamrocks broke up the field and scored the insurance point from Darragh O’Sullivan.

Some of the Shamrocks play and scores, in particular in the first half, were outstanding; the forwards really clicked at times and put together some great moves; resulting in scores from play from Seanán Collins (4 points), Darragh O’Sullivan, Alan McCarthy, Cannice Cafferey, Philip Brady and Brian Sweeney who caught a great kickout and belted it straight over. Ballinhassig scored 1-1 at the other end but it was Shamrocks leading 0-11 to 1-1 at halftime and looking good.

Ballinhassig had the slight breeze in the second half and managed to stay in contention thanks to 3 goals, 2 of the lucky variety. Shamrocks kicked a number of wides and took wrong options at times but did just enough to win by 3 in the end.

Shamrocks are now 3rd in the League Cup competition and have completed their program. We just have to wait for the other clubs now to finish off their games to see if we qualify for a Semi Final at a later date

Team: F. O’Neill, J. Browne, S. Hurley, S. Andrews, D. O’Neill, B. Sweeney, J. Tuohy, P. Lordan, A. McCarthy, P. Brady, S. Collins, C. Cafferey, D. O’Sullivan,S. Downey, J. Raleigh. Subs used – J. Wilson, R. Twomey.

 

Minor Hurling League – 8/8

Just twenty four hours after recovering from an absolute drowning we were back in action again with this group of lads. Ballygarvan proved a way too strong for us in this re arranged hurling league match. We fielded a very young team due to the holiday season but couldn’t cope with a Ballygarvan outfit that were out shining us in every position on the pitch. Credit is due to the younger players who helped fullfill this fixture.

 

Minor B Hurling Championship Semi Final V Ballygarvan – 13/8

Ballygarvan 7-15, Shamrocks 2-5

Shamrocks got their expected heavy defeat from a slick Ballygarvan in the Minor hurling Championship. These two teams played each other in the league during the week and the sad fact from that game was that this game was always going to go the same way. Make no mistake, this is a strong Ballygarvan hurling team and they had fellas all the way from goalkeeper, to corner back to corner forward who could hurl. Their striking, first touch and their catching in particular were in complete contrast to some of the Shamrocks players, some who dont have many of the basics. While the Shamrocks lads played their heart out and must be commended for that, they simply dont do enough of hurling and therefore results like the above are inevitable. However, if this bunch of lads can be kept together up to at least u21 with way more emphasis on hurling, they can form the nucleaus of our Junior team for years to come.

Ballygarvan had the game wrapped up after 13 minutes as they fed their lethal corner forward plenty of ball and he did as he liked; Shamrocks had no answer to him and had 4 goals and 3 points to his name before Shamrocks knew what was happening. However, they stuck with it; never giving up, and playing with the strong breeze managed to notch up 2-3 by halftime, the goals from Sean O’Brien and an absolute beauty from Tony O’Mahony along with points from Rory Horgan and Roy Twomey. But it was a damage limitation exercise really at this stage and everyone knew it. The HT score was 5-8 to 2-3 in favour of Ballygarvan, who were turning to pay with the strong enough breeze.

The second half, apart from a few Shamrocks attacks which yielded points for Rory Horgan and Tony O’Mahony again, was shooting practice for Ballygarvan and the game petered out to its inevitable end.

Team: J. O’Driscoll, P. Barry, J. Raleigh, C. Cusack, C. Kidney, J. O’Brien, R. Twomey, S. Horgan, S. O’Brien, R. Horgan, T. O’ Mahony, D. Kelleher, L. Garvey.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   

 

Week ended – 4th September 2011