Week Ended – 19th January 2014

Adult Club AGM – 13/1

The Adult Club AGM took place on Monday evening, attended by a large audience, in particular players. Much debate took place about the current state of affairs of our club, be it training, players commitment, Junior A and B, etc etc. The 3 outgoing officers of Chairperson Pat McCarthy, Secretary Dave O’Flaherty and Treasurer John Twomey (Shanbally) presented their excellent yearly reports. Club President Michael Brennan presided over the election of officers for 2014. All the outgoing officers were elected unopposed with no one standing against them. The selection of Junior managers in both hurling and football was left off until the next Executive meeting. After much debate and discussion about what the club are doing going forward, Chairperson Pat McCarthy closed the meeting.
 

Frank Fitzgerald R.I.P

Week Ended – 16th February 2014

Shamrocks V Kinsale – 9/2

Shamrocks 0-12, Kinsale 0-4 On a perfect morning for football after all the rain, Shamrocks headed to Kinsale to start the 2014 league campaign.   Shamrocks playing with the wind  were 3 points ahead after 10 minutes. Brian Sweeney and Alan McCarthy fielded some great ball at center field. The returning Chris O’ Neill and Cannice Caffrey in the half forword line were cutting through the Kinsale defence   At the half time whistle Shamrocks were leading 9pts to 2pts. In the second half Shamrocks were playing  against a  strong wind – the backs were on top from the word go and put up a great defence and no one was getting through. Fergus O’ Neill in goal was as solid as ever – Jonathan Touhy, Steven Hurley and Ronan Murphy were excellent in defence. Shamrocks won by 14pts to 5pts after an excellent hour of football.   Team Fergus O’ Neill, Jonathon Touhy, Ronan Murphy, Robbie Harrington, Michael Prout, Michael O’ Neill, Brian Sweeney, Alan McCarthy, David Hayes, Chris O’ Neill, Liam Redmond, Bernard Hickey, Eoin O’ Mahony, Cannice Caffrey.

JAFL V Courcey Rovers – 16/2

Shamrocks 1-13, Courcey Rovers 2-4 Shamrocks got their second win of the Junior A Football season under their belt with a fully deserved win over a battling Courcey Rovers side in Shanbally on Sunday afternoon last.   After all the recent rain, the bottom pitch in Shanbally was in good nick for a game considering. But as is so often the case at this time of year, the strong wind which blew down the pitch towards the village did its best to spoil the excellent efforts of the players.   Shamrocks played with the wind in the first half and went about their business of trying to build up as much a lead as possible before the inevitable second half onslaught. And they were doing fine for most of the half. The half forward line of Cannice Caffrey, Chris O’Neill and David Hayes were getting on a lot of ball and delivering the points, mostly from play. The midfield of Alan McCarthy and Brian Sweeney were winning a good share of the possession while the backs were coping adequately with the sporadic Courcies attacks. Barry Mulqueen also got on the scoresheet and Shamrocks were leading by 0-8 to 0-1 with 25 minutes gone. Courcey Rovers created a couple of goal chance just before halftime and scored an important major to leave the halftime score Shamrocks 0-10, Courcey Rovers 1-1.   Shamrocks turned to face the wind and the hill in the second half knowing that a lot of hard work was needed to keep ahead by the end. And this they did. The workrate was good throughout and all players made vital contributions. Some serious injuries to key players during the second half, allied to a scoring burst from Courcey Rovers mid way through the same half threathened to throw Shamrocks off. However, the subs brought in made vital contributions and Shamrocks kept their composure. Eoin O’Mahony and Cannice Cafferey had helped Shamrocks stay ahead before a cracking goal from the visitors brought them within 2 points of Shamrocks, 0-12 to 2-4 with 7 minutes remaining.   However, Shamrocks were awarded a penalty and Darragh O’Sullivan slotted home the resultant penalty. Shamrocks won the next kickout and this resulted in another vital point into the wind and that brought an end to the scoring, Shamrocks winning by 6 points.   Shamrocks are top of the table after 2 weeks. Apart from the injuries to some players, the management were happy with everything overall. Lets hope to see all players in action throughout the season, whether it be A or B football or indeed hurling. Training for ALL players continues this week.   The club would like to wish a speedy revovery to the three players who had to leave the field with injuries, 2 having to go to hospital, namely Mark Jordan, Michael Prout and Cannice Cafferey.   Panel on duty: F. O’Neill, S. Andrews, S. Hurley, J. Tuohy, R. Harrington, M. Prout, M. O’Neill, A. McCarthy, B. Sweeney, D. Hayes, C. O’Neill, C. Cafferey, E. O’Mahony, B. Mulqueen, M. Jordan, D. O’Sullivan, C. Kidney, C. Brady, A. Shelly, J. Browne, P. Brady, J. Brady, J. Wilson, R. Twomey, A. Hickey, D. O’Neill, J. Shanahan, D. Kelleher, D. Scriven, N. Hayes, C. O’Grady.                                                                                                                                                                            

Week Ended February 22nd 2014

MFL V Tracton – 22/2

Shamrocks 6-6 ,Tracton 0-6   Shamrocks got their season off to a winning start with a comprehensive win over Tracton on Saturday afternoon last.   The gale force wind proved difficult for the lads to deal with throughout the game. Shamrocks played against it in the first half and this is where they laid the foundations for their victory as goals from David Andrews, Coby O’Grady, Killian Murphy and tom Murphy gave them a 4-2 to 0-6 HT lead turning to play with the wind.   The lads kept it tight in the second half and brought on some subs so everyone got plenty of game time on the day. Further scores from Darragh Scriven and Brian Coffan finished off the visitors challenge. They had played and beaten Cobh in Cobh on the Thursday night in a challenge game so they have gotten things off to a good start overall, along with good numbers and enthusiasm at training.   Training is on every Tuesday at 4.45pm at the pitch.   Players on duty: D. Raleigh, S. Kideny, S. Kelleher, M. Hitchmough, C. O’Grady, N. Hayes, D. Scriven, T. Murphy, A. O’Grady, D. Andrews, E. Desmond, K. Murphy, C. Scriven, C. Hayes, B. Coffan, D. O’Reilly.

JAFL V Belgooly – 22/2

Belgooly 2-9, Shamrocks 0-5   South-East Cork Champions Belgooly were in impressive form for their league encounter with Shamrocks played in blustery conditions on their home pitch which was in excellent condition.   Belgooly were into top gear from the throw-in and despite facing the elements were 4 points clear after 23 minutes. On the 24th minute Shamrocks recorded their first point and added three more in quick succession to go into the half time break on even scores.   The home side started the second half full of determination and increased their lead 1-6 to 0-4 after 14 minutes. On the 15th minute Shamrocks recorded their first and only score of the second half. The South-East Champions, aided by the elements, increased their score to come out worthy winners 2-9 to 0-5.   There is every reason to be disappointed, after two fine wins in recent weeks. It is early in the season and the footballers will be back in action over the St. Patrick’s weekend when they play Ballinhassig.   The Junior Hurlers will take to the stage in Kinsale next Sunday March 2nd at 3pm.   Team: Fergus O’Neill, Senan Andrews, Steven O’Reilly, Robert Harrington, Cathal Kidney, Michael Prout, Michael O’Neill, Brian Sweeney, Alan McCarthy, Barry Mulqueen, Philip Brady, David Hayes, Darragh O’Sullivan, Chris O’Neill, Michael Golden.

U14 FL V Ballinora – 22/2

Ballinora 6-7, Shamrocks 3-1   This was Shamrocks first league game of the year and they just had enough players to field the required 12 on this horrible day for any outdoor sport.   Shamrocks lost the toss and were forced to play against the gale blowing right down the field. It was all hands on deck in the first half as the idea was to keep down the Ballinora score as much as possible. Underfoot conditions were very slippy, the rain was incessant not to mention the wind. Shamrocks did very well in that half overall and would have been happy coming up to half time as they were “only” losing by 0-6 to 0-0. Getting the ball to halfway was proving a difficult task in the conditions. However, just before haltime Ballinora scooped up a short Shamrocks kickout and they blasted it home to leave the HT score 1-6 to 0-0 in favour of the home side. Having said that, the comeback was managable.   Some switches were made in an attempt to get Shamrocks those vital early scores but despite Shane Downeys early point from play, the lads left their workrate down for 10 important minutes and unfortunately in that time, Ballinora struck for 3 quick goals to effecitively finish off the game. Again, some switches seemed to work for Shamrocks and without ever threathening to win the game, they got 3 goals from play courtesy of Luke O’Driscoll, Shane Downey and Killian O’Mahony.   The selectors after the game were happy enough with the application shown. Obviously the lads need to keep the concentration for all the game and it was that 10 minutes midway through the second half when they should have been pushing on that was their downfall. However, training is where those type of things are ironed out and it takes place every Tuesday at the pitch, 6.30pm sharp.   Next Saturday the lads are at home to Ballinhassig, 2pm. Big turnout needed.   Players on duty: D. O’Mahony, J. Sisk, C. Murphy, S. Andrews, E. Seymour, R. Van Pelt, S. Downey, L. O’Driscoll, D. O’Flaherty, S. Browne, K. O’Mahony, H. Andrews.

U8 Academy Hurling Blitz – 22/2

Shamrocks held an U8 hurling Blitz on Saturday afternoon last in the NMCI Ringaskiddy for all our young players who take part in our weekly Academy, both indoor and outdoor.   This was a fun and and enjoyable event where each and every player got 6 matches, refreshmensts and a medal afterwards for competiting. Once the first ball was thrown in until the last puck almost 2 hours later, every player had given their all and went home happy.   Our thanks to all the players who participated and to their parents for their comtinued support. Also to John Twomey (Ringaskiddy), John Jordan, Deirdre Twomey and the girls out front, Pa Andrews, Seamus O’Flynn and Shane O’Donovan for running and organising the 2 hour event.   It was such a success, that we hope to run a football one before the end of March, probably on a Friday night. Further details to follow on that.

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Week Ended – 2nd March 2014

U14 FL V Ballinhassig – 1/3

 Shamrocks 2-14, Ballinhassig 2-4   This was the second of two games played in Shanbally on Saturday afternoon last, and the second of 2 victories.   The 14’s got their first win of the season after a fully deserved win over Ballinhassig. The first 5 minutes were tight but then Shamrocks took a stranglehold on the match. They scored 1-6 without reply to open up a sizable gap between the teams approaching HT. Shane Downey with the goal (a cracker right into the top corner), along with points from Cillian Hayes, Seán Andrews, Daniel O’Mahony, Downey and Dylan O’Flaherty who was deadly accurate all afternoon and the Shamrocks lads were moving nicely, playing some nice, controlled football. Ballinhassig hit back with 1-2 of their own by Shamrocks reasserted themselves to lead by 1-8 to 1-2 at HT.   Shamrocks were in control throughout the second half. They could have added to their tally but some goal bound efforts went narrowly wide. Further points from Downey, Andrews, O’Flaherty, Seán Browne and Hayes and a great goal from Seán Andrews confirmed their superiority, eventhough Ballinhassig struck for a late goal of their own. Killian O’Mahony did some great work in defence after he was moved back there in the second half, as did Daniel O’Mahony.   The attention now switches to hurling over the next few weeks, with hurling training for this group along with the u12’s on this coming Tuesday at 6.30pm sharp.   Team: R. Van Pelt, C. Murphy, J. Sisk, S. Andrews, E. Seymour, D. O’Mahony, S. Downey, D. O’Flaherty, C. Hayes, S. Browne, K. O’Mahony, L. O’Driscoll, S. Geary.

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MFL V Brian Dillons – 1/3

Shamrocks 3-6, Brian Dillons 1-3   Shamrocks Minor Footballers got their second win of the season after a hard fought win over Brian Dillons on Saturday afternoon last.   Shamrocks played up the hill and against the wind in the first half and despite being slow to start, they scrapped their way to a 1-1 to 0-3 HT lead courtesy of a David Andrews point and an OG from one of the Dillons players.   The second half saw some changes and Shamrocks drove on down the hill. The back were outstanding throughout and they fed the players up front plenty of possession to do the damage. Shamrocks battled to a 9 point advantage at the final whistle, 3-6 to 1-3.   Among the scorers were Brian Coffan with 1-1, the goal from a penalty, Darragh Scriven with another goal and Aonghus Boland, who was making his return from a spell out, who bagged 0-3 late on to seal the win with some clever play at corner forward.   Training continues on Tuesday at 5pm at the pitch.   Team: D. Raleigh, S. Kidney, D. Barry, S. Kelleher, C. O’Grady, M. Hitchmough, D. Scriven, D. Andrews, A. O’Grady, A. Boland, K. Murphy, E. Desmond. Subs used – C. Hayes, B. Coffan, C. Scriven, T. Murphy.

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JAHL V Kinsale – 2/3

Kinsale 0-12, Shamrocks 0-6   Shamrocks suffered a 6 point defeat to Kinsale in their first hurling game of the year.   The game was played in Kinsale’s new second pitch and the strong wind blew right down the pitch and favoured Shamrocks in the first half. Such was its strength, Shamrocks needed to be ahead by a good few points at halftime to face the second half onslaught. However, the greens found scores hard to come by and despite some nice scores from Fergus O’Neill, Stephen Keane, Seanán Collins and a beauty from Roy Twomey, it was Kinsale who led 0-5 to 0-4 at HT. A mountain to climb for Shamrocks.   The second half went the way of the home side, although they didnt have everything all their own way. The overworked Shamrocks defence put in a great shift and cleared  plenty of ball and pressurised the Kinsale forwards into mistakes. However, the necessary bite up front wasnt there and after Cathal Kidney from play and a monster free from Michael O’Neill right into the teeth of the wind had brought Shamrocks back to within 2 points with 15 minutes left, Kinsale tagged on the insurance points to run out 6 point winners.   Next hurling match is at home to Valley Rovers next Sunday at 3pm, training for all players continues Monday and wednesday at 7.30pm.   Team: M. O’Neill, S. Andrews, S. O’Reilly, D. Hayes, S. Kidney, B. Mulqueen, R. Murphy, J. Tuohy, F. O’Neill, R. Twomey, S. Keane, D. Scriven, S. Collins, D. O’Neill, C. Kidney. Subs used – C. O’Grady, J. Wilson.                                                                                                                                                                 

Week Ended – March 17th 2014

JAFL V Ballinhassig – 16/3

Ballinhassig 3-11, Shamrocks 0-11   Shamrocks lost out to Ballinhassig in the Junior A Football League in a game played in Ballinhassig on Sunday afternoon last.   It was a frustrating afternoons work from Shamrocks who had the lions share of possession throughout but couldnt convert that dominance into the required scores. Ballinhassig, on the other hand, made maximum use of their ball and scored almost every time they attacked.   Shamrocks started brightly but the wides count was increasing early on. Shamrocks played with the aid of the breeze in the first half and despite some points from David Hayes, Barry Mulqueen and Stephen Keane early on, they trailed at the break by 2-6 to 0-5, after Ballinhassig had run straight down the middle of the Shamrocks defence to score two vital goals. The goal just before halftime was a real killer goal for Shamrocks who faced a very difficult task in the second half.   Shamrocks tried manfully to get the vital scores needed to make a right game of it but didnt come within a whisker of creating that vital goal chance needed to pull this one out of the fire. Meanwhile, Ballinhassig made hay when they attacked on the few occasions and scored a fortuitous goal past Fergus O’Neill via the post with 15 minutes remaining to open up a 10 point lead. Shamrocks battled on and despite points from Chris O’Neill, Brian Sweeney and a late Alan McCarthy duo, they eventually went down by the 3 goal margin.   Due to St Patricks Day falling on a Monday, training this week is on Tuesday and Thursday night at 7.30pm. With a Junior B team confirmed and the league starting in April, coupled with the A team playing Championship in a few weeks, its time for numbers at training to reach their earlier levels.   Panel: F. O’Neill, R. Murphy, S. Andrews, J. Tuohy, M. Prout, C. Kidney, M. O’Neill, A. McCarthy, B. Sweeney, D. Hayes, B. Mulqueen, C. O’Neill, R. Twomey, S. Keane, J. Brady, G. Prout, J. Wilson, D. O’Neill.                                                                                                                                                                       

Week Ended – March 23rd 2014

MFL V Canovee – 22/3

Shamrocks 2-6,  Canovee 0-7   Shamrocks made the long trip to Canovee count with a 5 point win over Canovee in Carraig a’ Droichid on Saturday afternoon last.

U12 FL V St Catherines – 22/3

St Catherines 6-5, Shamrocks 4-1   The visitors to Shanbally took the spoils after the first game of the year. Again, numbers are extremely tight at this age group, just like the 14’s; however, the Shamrocks players on duty today played their hearts out and can be proud of their display, in particular their second half display against a very good St Catherines team.   Catherines started the stronger and were 2 goals up inside the first 5 minutes. They chipped away at teh scoreboard and were 3-4 to no score ahead 10 minutes before halftime. Then Shamrocks came right back into the game with a goal from Adam Maye and a point from Seán Andrews. The half time score was 4-5 to 1-1 in favour of the visitors. Stand in mentor Pa Andrews asked the lads to win the second half and to never give up. The players responded and played some great football. Adam Maye went on to claim his hat trick of goals while Seán Andrews also slammed in one. It was great to see the never say die attitude of the players.   All they need now is to train and play together on a regular basis and we’ll see more improvement. The next u12 game is on Saturday April 5th, an away hurling game to Grenagh. Training continues on Tuesday evenings, 6pm. Hurling this week.   Panel on duty – Robert Van Pelt, Sam Kraner, Mark Sisk, Adam McSweeney, Derry Howard, Seán Andrews, Declan Carroll, Harry Andrews, Daniel O’Brien, Adam Maye, Conor Hanrahan, Fionn Herlihy.

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U16 FL V Grenagh – 23/3

Grenagh 3-9, Shamrocks 4-3   Shamrocks u16’s had an early start on Sunday morning as they made the journey to Grenagh to play their first Football league game of the campaign.   Unfortunately  numbers were very tight on the day and so the lads had to play 11 v 12 for the whole game. Scores were very hard to come by in the first half and the lads trailed by 1-4 to 2 points at the interval.   Grenagh started brightly and goaled again immediately after the restart and followed up with 2 points to leave the lads trailing by 2-6 to  2 points. Midway through the 2nd half Shamrocks hit a purple patch with 2 goals from Dylan O’ Flaherty, one from Christopher Hayes and another from Andrew O’Grady and now led by 2 points. Shamrocks then a penalty saved after a foul on O’ Flaherty. Another point scored by Mark Hitchmough was’nt enough as Grenagh scored 1-3 late on. There were excellent performances on the day from Nathan Hayes,Shane Flavin and Dylan O’ Flaherty.   Team: Shane Flavin, Cormac Scriven, Nathan Hayes, Dave Barry, David Andrews, Mark  Hitchmough, Andrew O Grady, Killian Murphy, James Lynam, Christopher Hayes, Dylan O’ Flaherty.                                                                                                                                                                       

Week Ended – April 6th, 2014

MFL V Whitescross – 29/3

Shamrocks 1-7, Whitescross 0-5   The Minor Footballers had a hard fought win over Whitescross in Shanbally on Saturday afternoon last. Underfoot conditions were tricky with the heavy drizzle making ball handling and keeping upright difficult. However, the Shamrocks players did just enought to grind out the win.   Nathan Hayes got the Shamrocks goal in the first half and they led 1-4 to 0-3 at halftime. Shamrocks survived a battling second half from Whitescross who tried all they could to close the gap but some great defending from Shamrocks limited their scoring chances, while up front David Andrews kicked a few vital points to keep Shamrocks ahead. Thats 4 from 4 now for the footballers. Hurling next week.   Players on duty – D. Raleigh, S. Kidney, S. Kelleher, D. Barry, C. O’Grady, N. Hayes, D. Scriven, D. Andrews, D. Andrews, A. O’Grady, C. Hayes, E. Desmond, A. Boland, C. Scriven, R. Horgan.

JAHL V Valley Rovers – 31/3

Shamrocks 2 – 13,  Valley Rovers 2 – 7

JAFL V Tracton – 2/4

U16 HL V Dripsey – 14/4

  The improvement that some of the Shamrocke players have made over the last year was very evident to see as a Shamrocks team dismantled the visitors to Shanbally on Monday evening, on a perfect night for hurling.   The Shamrocks team played crisp, direct and stylish hurling to overwhelm Dripsey throughout the contest. Andrew O’ Grady was on top form from frees and blasted home a an early goal from play along with points from Mark Hitchmough and Christopher Hayes, and they were well set at half time, 2-9 to 0-1.   The second half was just one way traffic throughout as Shamrocks kept the scoreboard ticking over and added more scores through the aforementioned players plus James Lynam, David Andrews with a cracking goal, another cracker from Shane Flavin (1-1) and Cristóir Corkery who added a well deserved goal towards the end for his efforts.   Its amazing to see the level of hurling some of these players are playing at – they have done so much work with their mentors and with the minors and with their physical coach Garrett O’Flynn.   The only downside was that amazingly, Shamrocks had to play the entire first half with only 11 players (12 a side) against Dripseys 12 as a whole bunch of players yet again didnt turn up for the match. It is incredibly unfair on the players present who have to run themselves into the ground to cover the extra spaces and its to their credit that they went out and destroyed Dripsey. One Shamrocks player even came up from Wexford for the match and ran himself into the ground while his other team mates didnt bother to show up! Shamrocks had to get a player to stand in at corner forward to commence the second half – otherwise Dripsey would have rightfully claimed the victory under GAA rule, eventhough they were 14 points behind. The talent is there and I would encourage any readers here to go and watch either our Minor or U16 team play hurling as they are playing to a higher level for sure than the current grade they are in. But they can only go on and win trophies and go up and play the better teams if players start to actually turn up at matches and training!!!

U14 HL V Lisgoold – 16/4

Lisgoold 9-9, Shamrocks 5-4   Despite the scoreline, Shamrocks u14 hurlers turned in a fantastic display against a strong Lsgoold team in Lisgoold on Wednesday night. The conditions were perfect for hurling on a lovely sunny evening.   Shamrocks had been well beaten by Kinsale in their previous game the week before and Lisgoold had beaten Kinsale well beforehand. So the fact that Shamrocks pushed Lisgoold all the way until the last 10 minutes showed that they lifted their performance in the meantime. Their hurling was of a much better quality and all teh lads got stuck in without once losing their discipline or complaining to anyone. They never gave up and their first touch was much improved which is the main aspect of what the selectors are looking for this year.   Shamrocks played their best hurling in the first half and can count themselves a tad unlucky to be behind at halftime by 1-5 to 2-1. Sam Geary and Shane Downey scored the Shamrocks goals to keep Shamrocks right in the game while at the other end of the field, Evan Seymour was having a blinder clearing ball after ball. Robert Van Pelt in goal showed a massive improvement in his goalkeeping skills and brought off at least 3 great saves.   Lisgoold did get on top in the second half and used their panel accordingly (Shamrocks had only the 12 players). They got through for a few goals and went 12 points up. Shamrocks never gave up and responded with 2 goals from Shane Downey at centre field who gave Lisgoold all sorts of problems with his direct running. He compleded his hat-trick and Harry Andrews also scored a goal from a free (1-3 in total). Eventhough Lisgoold got through for the 9 goals, if the lads can continue hurling away at home and at training, they will soon stop that kind of number going past them.   The managament afterwards were delighted with the attitude and performance and thanked all the players plus the parents who made the trip down to Lisgoold. U14’s have a break now until the Tuesday that the schools go back. Some will be involved with u12 next week, others with the U16’s.   Team: R. Van Pelt, E. Seymour, F. Herlihy, S. Browne, C. Murphy, J. Sisk, S. Downey, S. Andrews, D. O’Mahony, H. Andrews, S. Geary, L. O’Driscoll.

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Daniel O’Mahony about to strike the sliotar V Lisgoold, 15/4/14

JAHL V Carrigaline – 17/4

Carrigaline 0-13, Shamrocks 0-8   Carrigaline recorded a merited win over Shamrocks at Pairc Thaidhg Ui hAinnlaoi on Thursday evening. Shamrocks were fielding four minor players in the starting fifteen and they all showed much promise. Despite being short a few bodies, the team put up a credible performance against a side that included some excellent exponents of the game of hurling.   It was nip and tuck all the way until Shamrock’s most accomplished hurler, Senan Andrews was forced out with a hamstring injury. His departure saw the game turn in favour of the visitors who then went on to strike some excellent points.   Unfortunately for Shamrocks a cracking shot for goal went to the wrong side of the Carrigaline upright and perhaps our best chance of saving the game evaporated.   It was our first hurling game in three weeks and the players on duty will benefit from it enormously. Well done to all the lads who turned out and gave of their best.   Team: M. O’Neill, J. Browne, S. O’Reilly, S. Andrews, C. Brady, B. Sweeney, S. Kidney, D. Scriven, B. Mulqueen, C. O’Grady, S. Collins, C. Kidney, R. Twomey, F.O’Neill, A. Boland. Subs – R. Murphy, S.Downey, P. Andrews.

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Fergus O’Neill burts through the Carrigaline in JHL, 18/4/14

MHL V Brian Dillons – 19/4

Shamrocks 0-18, Brian Dillons 1-6   Shamrocks minors travelled to the Tank field on Saturday afternoon last and had an easier than expected win over Brian Dillons.   This was much more comfortable than the scoreline at the end. Shamrocks led 0-11 to 1-0 at halftime.                                                                                                                                                       

Week ended – April 27th, 2014

U12 FL V Whitescross – 22/4

Shamrocks 2-9, Whitescross 3-6   A very entertaining game of football ended in a deserved draw for both teams in Whitescross last Tuesday evening.   Shamrocks scored 1-2 in the last 7 minutes to salvage a draw that their efforts deserved. Whitescross looked set for the victory but points from Harry and Sean Andrews and the all important goal from Cian O’Flaherty with 2 minutes to go meant the sides finished level.   Shamrocks played up teh hill in the first half and were the better team. Sean Andrews and Cian O’Flaherty punished the Whitescross defence with frees and Harry Andrews scored a goal. Whitescross missed a few goal chances at the other end. HT 1-4 to 1-2 to Shamrocks.   Whitescross came storming into the game from the start of the second half and took over and started to run through the Shamrocks defence. They went ahead 3-6 to 1-7 but Shamrocks never gave up and scored those late points to get the draw. Hurling training next Tuesday in Rochestown College ball alley at 6pm.   Team: Daniel O’Brien, M. Sisk, Michael Foy, F. Herlihy, D. Gregson, A. McSweeney, S. Andrews, H. Andrews, C. O’Flaherty, R. Van Pelt, J. Farguer, A. Maye.

MHL V Cobh – 23/4

Shamrocks 2-10, Cobh 2-4   An excellent game of hurling in the Track on Wednesday night and after a good hours hurling, Shamrocks got the deserved win that keeps their unbeaten season going.   With 2 hurling matches being cancelled through no fault of their own, a rather facile victory over Brian Dillons the previous week and with all the training done with this group of lads since last November, with the emphasis being on hurling, this was just what the doctor ordered as the lads face into the state exams period. Cobh were big, strong, tough and could certainly hurl and the Shamrocks lads will be glad of a proper test of where they stand right now. It was a tough contest all through with Shamrocks only repelling a strong Cobh fightback towards the end of the game.   The first half was tight all through with Cobh testing the Shamrocks back on plenty of occasions. Shamrocks were playing Aonghus Boland in the corner and he scored 2 great points from play, Andrew O’Grady also scored a couple from long range frees and a monster one from centre back. Cobh had struck for an early goal and looked dangerous on the inside line. Both teams were guilty of missed opportunities – David Andrews struck the inside of the post with a well struck shot. The teams went in at half time with Shamrocks leading by 0-5 to 1-1.   Shamrocks got a great boost at teh start of teh second half as the hard working David Andrews finished off his own powerful solo to the back of the Cobh net and Shamrocks led 1-5 to 1-1. They tagged on a few scores from frees and when Mark Hitchmough finished off another Andrews solo run to the net, Shamrocks led by 7 points, 2-6 to 1-2. However, Cobh came right back into it and after hitting the crossbar with a 21 yard free, they brought teh Shamrocks lead back down to 3 points with 10 minutes left. They were right back in the game now but Shamrocks responded and halftime sub Hitchmough pointed an important score to open up that all important 4 point gap with 5 minutes left. Shamrocks closed it out and finished ahead 2-10 to 2-4 after a tough battle.   Panel: C. Scriven, S. Kelleher, S. Kidney, C. O’Grady, A. O’Sullivan, N. Hayes, D. Scriven, D. Andrews, D. Barry, C. Hayes, B. Crowley, A. Boland, M. Hitchmough, E. Desmond, K. Murphy, S. Flavin.

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Minor Panel V Brian Dillons, Tank Field, 19/4/14. Back row, l to r: Shane Kelleher, Andrew O’Grady, Sean Kidney, Eric Desmond, Cormac Scriven, Tom Murphy, David Raleigh, Rory Horgan, Shane Flavin, David Barry. Front, l to r: Christopher Hayes, Brendan Crowley, Darragh Scriven, David Andrews, Aonghus Boland, Coby O’Grady, Mark Hitchmough.

U16 HL V Whitescross – 25/4

Shamrocks 2-8, Whitescross 2-7   This game was played in atrocious weather conditions. It was pouring rain and there were gale force winds for the whole game. It was practically impossible to play any type of hurling what so ever. Some how we managed some lovely points in the first half namely from Andrew O’Grady and Mark Hitchmough. At half time after playing with the wind we lead on a score line of 0-08 to 1-03. The younger u14 players were accounting for themselves very well. Shane Downey at half back was holding his own while Cillian Hayes and Cathal Murphy up front were causing concerns for the Whitescross defence.   We faced the onslaught in the second half but our defence lead by the excellent David Andrews was coping with everything thrown at them. Suddenly a purple patch by Whitescross saw them score 1-04 without reply. We regrouped and when Christopher Hayes found the net after a great move the momentum was back with us.   We were trailing by a point with time running out when we were awarded a penalty. A fine save from the Whitescross keeper lead us to believe that it was not going to be our night. Cormac Scriven was moved out of goal and from a resulting shot that deceived the whole defence the sliotar found the top corner of the net. We were now leading by two points and in injury time. Whitescross added a point from a free to leave us victorious by a point at the final whistle. Full credit must go to both teams that played out an enjoyable game in such woeful conditions.   Team: C. Scriven, D. Andrews, D. Barry, S. Downey, J. Lynam, Cillian Hayes, Andrew O’Grady, K. Murphy, S. Flavin, Chris Hayes, C. Murphy, M. Hitchmough.

Darts Fundraiser – 26/4

A great night was had by all at the club’s fundraising event last Saturday night in the Shamrock Bar. Professional darts player, Jamie “Jabba” Caven took on the local pride of the Shamrock Bar darts team on the night. Some of the club’s up and coming stars also turned their hands to the fine art of dart playing. Up first was young u16 star David Andrews. He was followed by our fundraising expert Geraldine Twomey. Cork’s youth player Cian Forde from the Forde stable in Ringaskiddy then showed his talent. Jamie proved too strong for these lads but this was all to change when the boss Mark Hickey took to the oche. After a bit of bustling and banter it was Mark who took the honours much to the delight of the large attendance. Jamie regrouped and really upped the anti before and after the break. Blow in Mr Barley O’Donovan made a very impressive entrance to the walk on music of Barney is a Dinosaur but that was his moment of glory as he was put back in his box fairly lively by the excellent Jamie. The next few players all were beaten but enjoyed themselves immensely. The last three players were the BIG Shamrock hitters. John Nyhan, Jason Kavanagh and John Twomey threw unbelievable darts to register three wins in a row to the delight of the crowd. Jamie didn’t know what hit him. In his speech afterwards he thanked all involved and wished us all the best for the future. The club would like to thank Mark Hickey and the staff of the Shamrock Bar along with all the players who brought in sponsor money, all the local businesses who donated spot prizes and especially the local community again for their very generous financial support again. The funds raised will go towards the upcoming first aid and defibrillator training on Saturday 10th May & Saturday 7th June in conjunction with the Irish Red Cross.

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Week Ended – May 4th, 2014

JAFL V Ballygarvan – 30/4

Shamrocks 0-11, Ballygarvan 0-9   In a game that started in brightness sunshine and ended in darkness and rain, Shamrocks just about held on against Ballygarvan on Wednesday night in Ballygarvan to register the league points.   Shamrocks played with the wind and hill advantage in the first half and started brightly and led by 0-6 to 0-3 at HT, Barry Mulqueen, Michael Prout and Joseph Shanahan among the scorers.   Ballygarvan came right back into it in the second half and drew level 0-7 apiece with 15 minutes left. But Shamrocks regrouped and further points from Shanahan and sub Eoin O’Mahony stretched Shamrocks lead to 0-11 to 0-8 with time almost up. Then Ballygarvan were awarded a penalty to level the game but it went over the bar and the game ended shortly after.   Team: F. O’Neill, S. O’Reilly, S. Hurley, R. Murphy, S. Andrews, C. Kidney, M. Prout, B. Mulqueen, M. O’Neill, D. Hayes, S. Collins, J. Browne, C. O’Grady, B. Sweeney, J. Shanahan. Subs used – E. O’Mahony, D. Scriven, S. Kidney.

JAFL V Ballygarvan, 30/4/14. Back row, l to r: S. Kideny, S. Keane, D. O’Neill, B. Mulqueen, B. Sweeney, C. Kidney, M. O’Neill, S. Hurley, S. Collins, S. O’Reilly, S. Downey. Front, l to r: C. O’Grady, D. Scriven, J. Wilson, M. Prout, D. Hayes, J. Shanahan, F. O’Neill, S. Andrews, J. Browne, R. Murphy.

Foundation Course – 3/5

Well done to the 7 minor players who successfully completed the Foundation Course in the clubhouse last Saturday.   Tutor Patrick Andrews was very happy with the enthusiasm and willingness shown by the young players. Its great to see them doing the course at such a young age and hopefully they will have learnt a lot from it, not just from a future coaching standpoint, but from a playing point of view as well.   Shamrocks GAA club now have more then 20 qualified coaches at at least Foundation Level for the first time and this shows our committment in the current and future players of the club.

Tutor Pa Andrews with the Minors who did the course – David Raleigh, Shane Kelleher, Darragh Scriven, Brendan Crowley, Andrew O’Grady, Coby O’Grady and James Lynam.

U12 HL V Crosshaven – 3/5

Shamrocks 4-4, Crosshaven 4-3   Shamrocks and Crosshaven played out a keenly contested and tight game in Shanbally on Saturday afternoon before Shamrocks just about held on to register the league points.   Conditions were very wet and slippy; however, this didnt stop the two teams from trying their heart out in the conditions. Some 1st half Shamrocks goals from Harry Andrews, Fionn Herlihy and Seán Andrews saw Shamrocks open up a 7 point lead at halftime.   The second half saw Crosshaven come back more into proceedings and the nearly snatched a draw at the end. Conor Hourihan in the Shamrocks goal was very neat and tidy throughout while the backs were put under pressure towards the end and coped well. Overall, a satisfactory start to the hurling league. Shamrocks had a very young team out as numbers are very tight and we’re relying on everyone to be available for all matches and training. The lads have a busy month ahead of them under the supervision of John Herlihy, Aidan O’Leary and Brian Sweeney. The players/parents have a copy of the schedule.   Panel on duty – C. Hourihan, M. Sisk, D. Howard, A. McSweeney, F. Herlihy, S. Andrews, C. O’Flaherty, H. Andrews, R. Van Pelt, A. Maye, M. Foy, E. O’Flynn.

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Cian O’Flaherty V Crosshaven, 3/5/14

U10 Hurling Blitz – 3/5

The u10 hurlers took part in a blitz in Belgooly on Saturday morning and all the players played their part in the 3 games. Shamrocks beat Valley Rovers and lost to Sliabh Rua and Carrigaline in what was Shamrocks first outing of the year. No doubt the lads will improve as the year goes on. There’s a young team there with plenty of potential.   Our thanks to Shane O’Donovan who refereed 2 games, Seamus O’Flynn and the parents and grandparents of the players for the travel and support. There will be more Blitzes for both the U10 and U8 in hurling and football over the next few weeks and months, details will be posted here.

JAHL V Tracton – 4/5

Tracton 3-8, Shamrocks 1-10

This was a game that Shamrocks lost rather than Tracton won. Unfortunately we had a number of players who performed well below par and early scores were easily conceded. Tracton led 2-4 to 0-8 at the break.

Tracton made a very positive start to the second half recording 1-3 to no score. Shamrocks, however, improved in the final quarter but some bad and indecisive shooting saw the opportunity of many points being lost.

Credit must be given to Brian Sweeney, Jason Browne, Seanán Collins, Colin Brady and Coby O’Grady, all of whom put in sterling performances. Hurling training this week on Tuesday and Thursday evening, 7.30pm.

Team: M. O’Neill, J. Browne, C. Brady, S. Andrews, S. Andrews, B. Sweeney, B. Mulqueen, D. O’Neill, C. O’Grady, S. Collins, C. Scriven, R. Murphy, F. O’Neill. Subs – D. Hayes, C. Kidney, R. Twomey, P. Andrews.

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Coby O’Grady goes high V Tracton, 4/5/14

Primary Schools Football Blitz – 1/5

The playing fields of the Club were filled to capacity with 130 boys and girls from Monkstown, Shanbally and Ringaskiddy National Schools all filled with energy and enthusiasm for the Annual Shamrock’s School Blitz.   With fair weather and good ground conditions the scene was set for this very valuable and worthwhile initiative.   Mixed teams from all the Schools played twenty four games, each lasting 15 minutes. The participants were drawn from 3rd, 4th and 5th Classes and the Referees and Officials were drawn from the 6th classes. They were all splendid and showed great willingness and keenness.   The teams were well supported and led by their teachers and the many parents who attended enjoyed the programme and the kitchen hospitality.   The programme was supervised by Paudie O’Brien GDA from The County Board. Our own PRO and Schools Liaison Officer Patrick Andrews put the programme together and had everything set to go. Much thanks too to John Jordan who did Trojan work. Some of the Club’s elders were on hand too to ensure that all things ran smoothly.   The Annual Schools’ Hurling Blitz will take place in Shanbally on Thursday May 29th at 12 noon.                                                                                                                                                            

Week Ending – May 18th, 2014

 

U14 FL V Tracton – 9/5

Shamrocks 3-12, Tracton 3-11   As you can judge from the final score, this was a fantastic game of ball between tw teams who gave it their all and ran themelves to a standstill in wet Shanbally on Friday evening last. After a great hours football, Shamrocks had to withstand a great Tracton second half to win by just the one point.   Shamrocks were the better team in the first half and led by 2-6 to 2-4 at halftime. But they felt that they were worth more than the 2 point lead as they dominated possession but some sloppy shooting, some great defending from Tracton and an over reliance on trying to score goals not to mention conceding 2 soft goals at the other end meant that Tracton were right in touch at the break. New player Billy Hughes blasted home a goal after only 30 seconds of his first ever game in a Shamrocks jersey and Cillian Hayes also scored a great goal after a fantastic team move. Dylan O’Flaherty, who worked hard throughout also scored some neat points as did Daniel O’Mahony in that half.   Due to 2 injuries picked up and the threat that Tracton posed when they attacked, a rejigged Shamrocks team took the field in the second half. Tracton started very well and scored 1-2 early on to lead by 2 points. Shamrocks refused to yield and came back with 3 points to lead by one. It was up and down the pitch by this stage and the supporters at this stage were getting rightly stuck in on the sideline, to make a great atmosphere! Then Tracton got a goal to lead again by 3 points. Shamrocks refused to yield once again and Luke O’Driscoll stabbed home a vital goal and the teams were level. Tracton went a point up, Shamrocks responded to draw level before man of the match, Cillian Hayes, who played an absolute blinder at midfield for Shamrocks got the opportunity to kick the winning point off his trusty left peg and Shamrocks were winners by a solitary point.   The mentors of Jed O’Flaherty and Patrick Andrews were very happy afterwards with the players who showed great discipline and determination to come back strong when it was needed most. Training is hurling next Tuesday at 6pm.   Team: R. Van Pelt, C. O’Mahony, C. Murphy, D. Gregson, E. Seymour, J. Sisk, C. Hayes, D. O’Flaherty, D. O’Mahony, S. Andrews, B. Hughes, L. O’Driscoll, H. Andrews.

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Cillian Hayes in action V Tracton, 9/5/14

Defibrillator & 1st Aid Training Course – 10/5

Well done to the 5 Shamrocks members who took part in the Defibrillator & 1st Aid Training Course which took place in the Ringaskiddy Community Centre on Saturday afternoon last.   Pat O’Connell and his team from the Cork City Branch of the Irish Red Cross were on hand to guide the participants through their paces all day. Our thanks go to them. Also to our underage Chairman John Towmey (Ringaskiddy) who organised the whole day and to Ger Twomey who took care of the culinary side of things – saving hearts is hungry work.   This was the first of 3 courses that members of the club will be taking part in over the next few months.

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U12 FL V Dripsey – 15/5

Shamrocks 10-14, Dripsey 7-4   Shamrocks scored a high scoring win over Dripsey on Thursday evening last in Shanbally. It was attacking football all the way from both teams with Shamrocks being able to find the scores easier than the visitors.   Shamrocks led by 5-7 to 2-1 at HT largely through goals from Dylan Gregson, Cian O’Flaherty, Derry Howard, Conor Hourihan and Jeff Farquer. Dripsey played better in the second half and got to within 7 points with 10 minutes left, but Shamrocks got on top again and Adam Maye finished with 4 goals and Sean and Harry Andrews kicked some nice points.   14 players were togged out, our most yet this year and all got plenty of game time and played well. Football training next Tuesday at 6pm.   Panel: D. O’Brien, M. Sisk, R. Van Pelt, A. McSweeney, Dylan Gregson, S. Andrews, H. Andrews, F. Herlihy, C. O’Flaherty, A. Maye, C. Hourihan, S. Kramer, D. Howard, J. Farquer.

JAHL V Ballinhassig – 15/5

Ballinhassig 2-21, Shamrocks 1-16

On a beautiful May evening at Shanbally there were scores aplenty when Shamrocks entertained the Blues in the JHL.

This match was closely contested in the opening half and at the break the score saw Ballinhassig in front 1-10 to 1-8.

The blues started the second half in high gear with their former senior man Darren Dineen adding some long range points. Shamrocks finished strongly and seven of the team were among the scorers. This was their best scoring effort this season and the team spirit and determination must be commended too. Great goal efforts by Joe Shanahan and Captain Senan Collins were inches on the wrong side of the post. Cathal Kidney and Ronan Murphy put in sterling performances. This all augers well for the future.

Team: Ml. O’Neill, R. Murphy, S. Andrews, C. Kidney, S. Kidney, B. Sweeney, B. Mulqueen, J. Shanahan, S. Collins, A. McCarthy, C. O’Grady, D. Scriven, F.O’Neill, S Keane, D.O’Neill. Subs used: R. Twomey and C. O’Neill.

U14 Hurling Challenge V Mayfield – 16/5

Shamrocks 6-10, Mayfield 6-10

  As part of the plan to play as many games as possible at u14 hurling, Shamrocks went up a grade and played the visitors Mayfield in Shanbally on Friday night last and what a game.   The Shamrocks lads played great hurling all through and have come on in leaps and bounds from the start of the year. While it would have been nice to win, its the development of the players as hurlers thats the main aim for the selectors and if the players keep this up, they’re going about that development just fine!   The scoring was high – Shane Downey scored 3-1 by halfime, Cillian Hayes continued his excellent season in both codes by knocking over a few while Seán Andrews and Dylan O’Flaherty scored 1-1 and 1-3 respectively, and Daniel O’Mahony (improving with every game) also got in on the point scoring act. Robert Van Pelt in goal brought off some great saves while Cathal Murphy was the pick of the backs, another man showing vast improvement. Harry Andrews was outstanding when moved back corner back in the second half while Evan Seymour stuck manfully to his task on Mayfields best forward. Luke O’Driscoll kept the ball moving at both corner back and corner forward.   The selectors of both teams were very happy afterwards, especially after such a high scoring game ended up level at 6-10 each. It most definately was a worthwhile exercise for both teams and Shamrocks hope to return Mayfield the favour later in the year, perhaps in September up in Mayfield.

Harry Andrews breaks a Mayfield hurley

                                                                                                                                                    

Week Ending – May 25th, 2014

JAHL V Courcey Rovers – 19/5

Courcey Rovers 1-15, Shamrocks 1-10

This game was played on an excellent pitch with the home side keen to exert their authority early on. Unfortunately Shamrocks were slow to get into their strike, but some brave defending led by Senan Andrewsat fullback saw the teams go into the halftime break with Courceys leading 0-8 to 0-5.

Some of the Shamrock players moved up a gear the second half and being more competitive especially in the forwardline, the home side were under more pressure.With four minutes remaining Shamrocks were one point behind. A free to level the game did not generate the equaliser. Courceys responded and a long ball down the field was smartly finished to the net.

Perhaps this game should have been won, despite the team being short a few key players.

However, the graph is going in the right direction and with a little more dedication and sharpness our day will come.

Joe Shanahan is returning to form and team Captain Senan Collins led by example. The Minor pair of Sean Kidney and Darragh Scriven are progressing well.

Team: M. O’Neill, R. Murphy, S. Sndrews, C. Kidney, S. Kideny, B. Mulqueen, D. Hayes, J. Shanahan, A. McCarthy, D. Scriven, S. Collins, R. Twomey, D. O’Neill, S. Keane, F. O’Neill. Subs used – D. O’Sullivan.

U14 FL V Kinsale – 24/5

Kinsale 5-8, Shamrocks 4-9   Kinsale and Shamrocks served up a thriller in Kinsale on Saturday morning last which resulted in a victory for the home side by 2 points.   Shamrocks can feel that they should have gotten something out of this game as they largely dominated possession throughout. They had more of the possession against a good footballing Kinsale team; they created more goal chances overall but they just couldnt apply the finish when it mattered most in front of the Kinsale posts.   Kinsale got inside for 2 quick fire goals in the first half and it looked ominous at this stage. Shamrocks were having most of the possession but despite points from Cillian Hayes and Shane Downey, they found themselves down by 3-4 to 0-5 at half time.   Shamrocks threw everything at wilting Kinsale in the second half but found the Kinsale keeper unbeatable, he was outstanding to stop many Shamrocks attacks. In that second half, Seán Andrews with 2 goals, Shane Downey from a penalty and Dylan O’Flaherty with a classic predators style goal got Shamrocks back into it but time ran out on the brave Shamrocks effort in the end.   The lads play Football Championship against Dripsey on Wednesday night.   Panel: R. Van Pelt, C. O. Mahony, C. Murphy, J. Sisk, E. Seymour, D. Gregson, S. Downey, C. Hayes, D. O’Mahony, D. O’Flaherty, B. Hughes, S. Andrews. Sub – S. Browne.

Daniel O’Mahony bursts out V Kinsale, 24/5/14

U8 Football Blitz – 24/5

Shamrocks u8 footballers took to the field in an u8 football blitz in Brinny (Valley Rovers) on Saturday morning and aquitted themsleves very well.   The lads played Crosshaven, Courcey Rovers and Carrigaline and all players played very well. Well done to all the parents who supported and to Shane O’Donovan and Liam Lynch who took the team.   Panel on duty: Diarmuid Cahill, Cathal O’Donovan, Barry O’Mahony, Kiernan May, Zach Johnson, Calum Gregson, Harry O’Leary, Cian Lynch.

U8 Football Blitz, 24/5/14

                                                                                                                                          

Week Ending – June 1st, 2014 

U14 CFC V Dripsey – 28/5

Shamrocks 7-20, Dripsey 7-3   Shamrocks and Dripsey scored a massive 14-23 between them in Shanbally on Wednesday evening but it was Shamrocks who pulled away in the second half to record the 1st round championship win in Rebel Óg East C grade. They now play the winners of Castlelyons and St Catherines in the quarter final at a later date.   Shamrocks were no doubt the better team all through but found it hard to shake off the determined Dripsey challenge, who stayed in touch largely through 4 goals either side of HT. Shamrocks played up the slope in the first half and despite Dripsey scoring an early goal, Shamrocks settled down to dominate and pick off their scores, virtually all from play. They moved into a commanding 3-7 to 1-0 lead coming up to HT but let Dripsey right back into the game by conceding 3 goals in 5 minutes. After playing all the football, Shamrocks were ahead by only a goal at HT, 3-7 to 5-0.   The players got a bit of a chasing at HT from mentors Jed O’Flaherty and Pa Andrews. It worked, but it took 5 minutes for it to kick in as Dripsey incredibly went ahead in the game by scoring 1-1 straight after HT. Shamrocks never panicked and one or two positional switches seemed to work the oracle and Shamrocks got on top all over the field and more importantly started scoring heavily. Inside 10 minutes, the game was over as they tagged on 3-6.   So the first round was negotiated and the players have to take a bow in getting out of a tricky situation. All players made handsome contributions and 7 different players got on the scoreboard. The next game is a football league game away to Clondrohid next Thursday. Clondrohid is about 5 miles beyond Macroom so we’ll have to be leaving Shanbally Cross at 5.30pm. Football Training for u12/u14 continues next Tuesday at 6pm.   Team: Robert Van Pelt, Evan Seymour (0-1), Cillian O’Mahony, Jody Sisk, Cathal Murphy, Daniel O’Mahony, Shane Downey (3-4), Dylan O’Flaherty (2-7), Cillian Hayes (0-3), Seán Andrews (1-2), Luke O’Driscoll (0-1), Seán Browne (1-2). Subs used – Dylan Gregson, Harry Andrews.

U14 Football Panel V Dripsey, 28/5/14. Back row, l to r: Cillian O Mahony, Cillian Hayes, Cathal Murphy, Daniel O’Mahony, Shane Downey, Evan Seymour, Jody Sisk. Front, l to r: Luke O’Drsicoll, Seán Browne, Harry Andrews, Dylan Gregson, Robert Van Pelt, Seán Andrews, Dylan O’Flaherty.

Jack Barrett Memorial Friendship Trophy  – 30/5

Shamrocks 2-14, Kinsale 1-7

Kinsale visited Shanbally to play for the Jack Barrett Memorial Friendship Trophy, on Friday last. It was a magnificent May evening and Shamrocks hurled well in the opening half recording two splendid goals from Darragh O’Sullivan. Kinsale were quite competitive but Shamrocks hurling prowess stood them well and many of the scores were excellent. At the break Shamrocks led 2-10 to 0-4.

Kinsale took the game to Shamrocks in the second half but our backs were not found wanting and weathered many a storm. Centre back Brian Sweeney excelled with fullback Senan Andrews in mighty form too.

This was the teams last competitive game before their championship outing next Friday, June 6th, in Carrigaline versus Tracton. With this form and some final preparations, the team will be ready for the fray.

Team: M. O’Neill, S. O’Reilly, S. Andrews, C. Kidney, S. Kidney, B. Sweeney, B. Mulqueen, A. McCarthy, J. Shanahan, S. Keane, S. Collins (Capt.) D. Scriven, F. O’Neill, C. O’Neill, D. O’Sullivan. Subs: D. Hayes, D. O’Neill, R. Twomey, J.Wilson, P. Andrews.

Shamrocks Panel with the Jack Barrett Cup, 30/5/14. Back, l to r: Darragh O’Sullivan, Cathal Kidney, Brian Sweeney, Stephen Keane, Darragh Scriven, Alan McCarthy, Barry Mulqueen, Stephen O’Reilly. Front, l to r: Seán Kidney, Jack Wilson, Fergus O’Neill, Joseph Shanahan, Seanán Collions (capt), Chris O’Neill, David Hayes, Senan Andrews. Goalie Michael O’Neill somewhere in the background!

U12 HL V Tracton – 30/5

Tracton 6-13, Shamrocks 2-3   Tracton hammered Shamrocks in Minane Bridge on Friday night in the league. Tracton should be nowhere near this grade as they are hammering everyone in their path – in many ways Shamrocks learned more from the game they Tracton did.   It was 1-10 to 2-0 for Tracton at HT. Shamrocks were very competitive early on before Tracton got on top throughout. The lads tried very hard throughout and never gave up. It was fantastic to see 15 young hurlers togged out – some younger members of the club have decided that they want to represent Shamrocks in hurling which is great to see.   Thanks to all the parents and players and to our mentors Aidan O’Leary and John Herlihy. Football training with the u14’s next Tuesday at 6pm.   Panel: Sean Andrews, Jeff Farquhar, Conor Hourihan, Robert van Pelt, Harry Andrews, Mark Sisk, Adam Maye, Adam McSweeney, Cian O’Flaherty, Derry Howard, Fionn Herlihy, Ferdia Hayes, Robert Barrett, Eoin O’Flynn & Michael Foy.

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Adam Maye in action V Tracton in Minane Bridge.

                                                                                                                                                  

Week Ended – June 15th, 2014

U14 FL V Clondrohid – 5/6

Clondrohid 8-12, Shamrocks 3-3   Shamrocks u14 season ran over a big pothole in Clondrohid on Thursday night as they were well beaten by the home side by 24 points.   Unfortunately, it was easily Shamrocks worst performance of a battling season but this Clondrohid team were the best team the lads played all season and had no obvious weak links on the team, they could all play ball. Shamrocks were actually doing well up until their normal sleep time – 5 minutes until halftime – when they conceded 3-2 in the blink of an eye to go in at HT losing 4-6 to 2-3. Up until that point of proceedings, a game refereed by manager Pa Andrews as no referee turned up, Shamrocks had played some nice ball and were level 2-2 to 1-5, goals by Shane Downey and a cracking team move that ended up with centre back Evan Seymour billowing the back of the net. Seán Browne also scored a nice point from play.   However, the bottom fell out of the challenge in the lead up to halftime and in reality, the heads were gone at that stage. Clondrohid completely dominated the second half and ran out comfortable winners, despite Seán Browne scoring a Shamrocks goal midway through. This Shamrocks team are conceding far too many goals (19 in 3 matches) so hopefully that can be worked on in training, before the championship quarter final against either St Catherines or Castlelyons on Friday June 20th. In the meanwhile, its u12/u14 hurling training next Wednesday at 6pm.   We’d like to thank all our players, parents and our underage Chairman John Twomey and John Jordan for making the journey out West on Thursday night.   Team: H. Andrews, C. Murphy, C. O’Mahony, J. Sisk, E. Seymour, D. O’Mahony, S. Downey, D. O’Flaherty, C. Hayes, S. Browne, S. Andrews, B. Hughes. Subs used – D. Gregson, L. O’Driscoll, S. Geary.

JAHC V Tracton – 6/6

Shamrocks 4-11, Tracton 1-11

The old adage,’ goals win games’ and so for Shamrocks four smashing goals, two in either half copper fastened a very deserved and merited win over old rivals Tracton.

The earlier deluge had just receded and the playing surface on the Carrig pitch excelled. Shamrocks were first to attack and full forward Chris O’Neill hit a first splendid point. Chris brought all his sublime skills and experience to bear on this game and always responded when most needed. His goal just before the break and second half points bear this out. Youngster Darragh Scriven was the provider when Captain Senan Collins hit two great goals, one in each half. Collins final tally of 2-5 reflected on his mighty performance.

Shamrocks competitive edge and fine fettle enabled them to take the game to their opponents on numerous occasions and the lengthy striking from ‘keeper Michael O’Neill had plenty of balls dropping deep in the Tracton half. With the defenders showing up well Tracton failed to score a goal in the opening half. Shamrocks led 2-4 to 0-7 at the break.

The second half started like the first one with a point from Darragh O’Sullivan after 20 seconds. Tracton moved up a gear and exerted much pressure, but steely determination and the ability to get more goals was our yardstick for victory. Mighty veteran Stephen Keane hit a cracking goal and Chris O’Neill went on to record some more vital points A great ball hit in from the wing by Darragh Scriven was drifting across the goal, going wide, but Senan Collins, now in the full forward position make a mighty leap to divert it to the top corner of the Tracton net. Victory was then assured.

Alan McCarthy, despite an earlier injury scare had one of his best games and his striking of dead balls excelled. Minor player Sean Kidney played like a veteran and was not overawed by the occasion. The sterling full backline of O’Reilly, Andrews and Kidney were unremitting and Sweeney and Mulqueen used their vast experience to push our cause for victory. Joseph Shanahan, who operated a mid-field, made many testing runs at the Tracton defenders, but he was not found wanting when he filtered in behind his own defence to clear vital balls when Tracton ‘threw the kitchen sink at us’. When the final whistle came we had 4-11 on the board, a fine tally indeed for a first round game. The players deserve full credit for this overdue and much desired victory. Coach Declan O’Neill, acclaimed their win and acknowledged their huge input on the training field.

Team: Michael O’Neill (0-1), Stephen O’Reilly, Senan Andrews, Cathal Kidney, Barry Mulqueen, Brian Sweeney, Seán Kidney, Joseph Shanahan (0-1), Alan McCarthy (0-1), Darragh Scriven, Seanán Collins (2-5), Stephen Keane (1-0), Darragh O’Sullivan (0-1), Chris O’Neill (1-3), Fergus O’Neill. Subs (used) – Ronan Murphy, Dave O’Neill, (unused) Roy Twomey, Jack Wilson, Pa Andrews.  

U12 HL V Grenagh – 9/6

Grenagh 5-5, Shamrocks 0-0   Shamrocks U12 hurlers were well beaten by a strong Grenagh side on Monday evening.   Their cause wasn’t helped by the loss of Harry Andrews with a hand injury after only 10 minutes and were always chasing the game as a result of this. However they plugged away and were down by 1-3 to no score at half time.   Shamrocks were outplayed for the remainder of the second half failing to put a single score on the board. Best on the night were Seán Andrews and Adam McSweeney. We wish Harry a speedy recovery and hope he is back for the John Kerins Memorial tournament in Pairc Ui Rinn on Saturday at 12pm.   Panel – Seán Andrews, Conor Hourihan (in goal), Robert van Pelt, Harry Andrews, Mark Sisk, Adam Maye, Adam McSweeney, Cian O’Flaherty, Derry Howard, Fionn Herlihy, Robert Barrett, Eoin O’Flynn and Michael Foy.

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Cian O’Flaherty V Grenagh, 9/6/14

John Kerins Memorial – 15/6

Whitechurch 3-4, Shamrocks 0-3   Shamrocks and Whitechurch played out a great game of football in Páirc Ui Rinn on Saturday afternoon last. Whitechurch did all the damage in the first half and led by a good few points at hafl time.  However, Shamrocks came right back at them in the ssecond half and were very unlucky to not score 2 or 3 goals.  The lads had a great experience playing up in Páirc Ui Rinn and thanks to the mentors, the parents, grandparents and all the very vocal supporters. The team were very young, some as yung as 8 years old so hopefully they’ll be more comeptetive over the next few years.                                                                                                                                                 

Week Ended – June 29th, 2014

JAFL V Ballymartle – 17/6

Shamrocks 3-12, Ballymartle 0-6   Shamrocks travelled to Riverstick on Tuesday evening to play Ballymartle. Shamrocks started well with captain Joe Shanahan finding the net in the first minute of the game. Steven Keane and Coby O’ Grady getting a point each. Shamrocks were well on top with Alan McCarthy fielding some great ball with his mid field partner Barry Mulqueen. Joe Shanahan got two more fine points along with Darragh O’ Sullivan getting a point of his own the full forward line were scoring at will and when Steven Keane got a goal just before half time Shamrocks lead by 2-6 to Ballymartle 6 pts.   The second half started well with Joe getting a point and Darragh O’ Sullivan finding the net with a well placed shot. Ballymartle tried hard to break down the Shamrocks back line but could find no way through with some great defendin. Shanahan got two more points followed by Steven Keane, Darragh O’ Sullivan and Alan McCarthy. Shamrocks ran out convincing winners 3-12 to 6pts.   Team: Fergus O’ Neill, Ronan Murphy, Senan Andrews, Michael O’ Neill, Cathal Kidney, Michael Prout, Eoin O’ Mahony, Alan McCarthy, Barry Mulqueen, Coby O’ Grady, Chris O’ Neill, Seanán Collins, Darragh O’ Sullivan, Joseph Shanahan. Subs: Jack Wilson for Collins, Steven Downey for Shanahan, B Hickey for Steven Keane.

U14 FC V Castlelyons – 21/6

Shamrocks 3-20, Castlelyons 3-5   The Shamrocks u14 footballers are through to the Semi Final of the championship after a great second half performance against Castlelyons in Passage on Saturday afternoon last.   Conditions were ideal for football. Both teams started this twelve a side game with high hopes as their league form was very impressive. We scored some fine points and were dominating in most areas of the pitch. The Castlelyons goalkeeper was playing a blinder. He produced four top class saves in the first half alone. Castlelyons got a goal against the run of play to leave them leading by two points. After an excellent Shamrocks move, Billy Hughes found the back of the net to leave us leading at half time 1-06 to 1-04.   Some positional switches were made and words of advice was given by Jed O Flaherty and Kieran Lynam. The second half started and we soon found our scoring boots by kicking over eleven points without reply. Dylan O Flaherty and Sam Geary then produced two fast goals to end this game as a contest.   Castlelyons rallied and got two late consolation goals the leave us impressive winners at the full time whistle. Each player can be really proud of themselves for an excellent team performance. They were on top throughout the whole game and in every position on the pitch.   Team: Robert Van Pelt, Dylan Gregson, Cathal Murphy, Jody Sisk, Evan Seymour, Seán Andrews, Daniel O Mahony, Dylan O Flaherty, Cillian Hayes, Shane Downey, Billy Hughes, Luke O Driscoll. Subs used – Cillian O Mahony, Sam Geary. Sean Browne (Injured).

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U8 Football Blitz – 21/6

The Shamrocks under 8 boys gave a great display against Valley Rovers, Sliabh Rua and Crosshaven at the blitz held at the Tracton GAA grounds on Saturday 21st June, coming out on top in all three matches. Hard work and skill from Cian Lynch, Cathal O’Donovan, Diarrmuid Cahill, Zach Johnson, Barry O’ Mahony and Kieran May and some fine scores from Shane O’Flynn, David Herlihy and Jason O’Driscoll who were playing their first games for the Shamrocks club on what was a lovely day for gaelic football. No doubt the first of many for these three young lads. Well done to all the boys and we’re looking forward to the next day out. Thanks also to the parents for their wonderful support.

U8 Football Blitz, 21/6/14

U16 HL V Grenagh – 23/6

Shamrocks 2-8, Grenagh 1-4   This was a great game of hurling between 2 teams who would have designs on winning the whole thing out. Grenagh led by 1-3 to 1-1 at HT but a great second half by Shamrocks let them take over and take the league points after a tough hours hurling.   Full report not received.

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U12 FL V Ballyphehane – 25/6

Shamrocks 5-13, Ballyphehane 2-3   Shamrocks had a comfortable win over Ballyphehane on Wednesday evening in Ballyphehane. They were on top from the start and all the 14 players got ample game time.

MHC V Brian Dillons – 26/6

Shamrocks 2-16, Brian Dillons 2-8   We played Brian Dillons in the Minor Hurling Championship in Passage on Thursday evening. Dillons playing with the first half wind took a 2 point lead before Andrew O’Grady levelled the game with two well pointed frees. We were playing some great hurling and went into the lead only for Dillons to score a goal to make it 1-02 to 0-04. The sides drew level three times during the first twenty minutes and coming up to half time we scored three points to go in at the break leading on a score line of 1-04 to 0-09.   After the break Shamrocks took control of the game and with the wind at our backs we got some great scores to increase our lead, at one stage we were leading by 2-14 to 1-05 when Dillons got a 20 metre free to pull back a goal but Shamrocks were in control and ran out winners on a score line of 2-16 to 2-08.   Team: Cormac Scriven, Nathan Hayes, Shane Kelleher, Seán Kidney, Mark Hitchmough, Tom Murphy, Darragh Scriven, David Andrews, Rory Horgan, Coby O’Grady, Aonghus Boland and Andrew O’Grady. Subs – Brendan Crowley, David Raleigh, Killian Murphy and Christopher Hayes.   Shamrocks play Cobh in the Semi Final at a later date.

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U10 Hurling Blitz – 28/6

Shamrocks made their first trip to the magnificent Cloughduv grounds on Saturday morning for an u10 hurling Blitz. The lads once again did themselves proud, not losing any game against different opposition this time, namely Dripsey, Grenagh and Laochra Óg (a brand new club from the Muscraí Gaeltacht comprising a few clubs). Shamrocks had 11 players togged out which was fantastic and all players played brilliant notching some great scores.   Once again a big thank you to the management and to the parents and grandparents for making the trip and supporting the lads throughout.                                                                                                                                                       

Week Ended – July 6th, 2014

Club Ciarán 2014 – Day 4

We have had four wonderful days so far (5th one ongoing as we speak) and the feelgood factor is very high. Our young recently graduated coaches have been splendid and with the experienced John O’Herlihy N.T., Aidan O’Leary, David Nolan N.T and Declan O’Neill our Schools Coach throwing in all their experience and expertise, I would suggest that 2014 is by far our best week yet.

Parish Priest Rev. Sean O’Sullivan, no mean footballer himself having played with his native Bantry and later Ballincollig, paid us a visit on Thursday. He was wondering where the footballs were. He was very impressed and later he was watered and fed by the Catering Division.

The food has been top class with Clonakilty black pudding very endearing to the pallet.

We had children whose fore fathers have already made their mark in our Club. James Forde, grandson of the late Teddy Forde, Rebecca Collins, grand daughter of John Collins, Laura Sisk, great grand daughter of Paddy Sisk, Saoirse Aherne, grand daughter of Thomas Aherne, Ellie Hickey, great grand daughter of Leo Brady to mention a few.

We had a visit from new baby Jack O’Driscoll, a great grandson of the Jackie and Gertie O’Driscoll. Baby Liam O’Donoghue, new to this world as well, called in with his mum. We were so pleased to see Holly Lyons from Rochestown sporting the Club colours. Holly made her first visit to the Club when she was six months old in 2012.

Club Chairman Pat McCarthy is playing a blinder and he is charged with the distribution of hurleys and helmets each morning. John Jordan and Donal Turner have everything in place and laid each morning before the troops arrive and the indomitable Geraldine Twomey along with her sister-in-law Deirdre have maintained a wonderful kitchen. Geraldine who hit the big 50 last weekend, had some beautiful birthday cake on offer for the sweet toothed on Monday morning. It didn’t last long.

Sargent Jamie Sweeney paid a courtesy call too with siren blazing but there was no trouble, he just wanted a cup of Geraldine’s best coffee and he told many of the young hurlers what a fine exponent of the game he was himself. I’m not sure if they all believed him.

Club Ciarán 2014 – Day 5

July 4th 2014 marked the close of our fascinating Hurling week at Pairc Tadgh O’h-Ainnlaoi. I have no doubt if the late and great Ted Hanley was around this week he would have been very pleased and proud. A total of 110 boys and girls attended this special week where they were so fortunate to have such a talented group of Coaches to both introduce them to hurling on one hand and on the other to perfect and improve their skills. The reaction was so positive from both children and parents. The wonderful weather enabled many parents to stay and relish the best of Summer and observe the various drills and sessions from the coaching programme. Our kitchen was busy and all and sundry were treated with due courtesy.

We had two very welcome visitors today, Mary Hegarty, mother of the late Ciaran and her sister Jenny O’Donovan. They were welcomed by our Chairman Pat McCarthy who presented Mrs. Hegarty with our specially designed Club Ciaran shirt.

The pitches and surrounds were in wonderful shape, thanks to our Groundsman Pat O’Neill and Donal Turner. John Jordan was responsible for all equipment and each day everything was in place before matters got under way. With significant contributions from our Chairman Pat and our Vice Chairman Kieran Lynam all matters were in safe hands throughout the week.

The children were splendid all week and their parents can be very pleased and proud of them. The Coaches were loud in their praise of them. The hurley repair person got plenty of work too.

The Club Ciaran shirts were in the county colours this year and proved to be hugely popular.

Under age Chairman, Mr. John Twomey had many requests for extras to be used for gifts for cousins and friends. One request came from Paris. It’s a small world.

Before departing all children received the new GAA wrist band as a keepsake. One parent enquired, if we could keep the programme going for three weeks.

We must pay tribute to our senior Coaches who brought so much to the table, Aidan O’Leary, David Nolan, John Herlihy and of course our own Schools’ Coach Declan O’Neill. Their leadership and experience was invaluable, We had three wonderful lady Coaches, Gemma Kavanagh, Mary Coveney (grand daughter of the legendary Jerh. Coveney), and Sarah McCarthy. These ladies played a key role working with the beginners groups.

One of the most defining initiatives undertaken by the Club this year was the Coaching certification course masterminded and spearheaded by Patrick Andrews. His pupils were mainly our Minor players, many of them are keen and splendid hurlers. The benefits of this course were clear to be seen this week by the manner in which these fine teenagers carried out all their coaching duties. The young aspiring coaches for Club Ciaran were David Andrews, David Raleigh, Brendan Crowley, Cormac Scriven, Mark Hitchmough, Nathan Hayes, Cannice Caffrey, James Lynam, Darragh Scriven, Seán Kidney, Andrew O’Grady, Christopher Hayes and Shane Kelleher.

When Club Chairman, Mr. Pat McCarthy spoke to the Coaches afterwards, he said that this week ‘s event was the most important undertaking in the Clubs calendar this year. He added that, going forward, these Coaches would provide a solid and fruitful future for our Club.

Peace and quite has returned to Pairc Tadgh O’h-Ainnlaoi and the rabbits can come out to eat and play again. No sooner, had the last car departed, Pat O’Neill was back on his tractor, trimming and cutting the grass as well as only he can do. A huge thanks is due to all concerned and the Chef in The Shanbally Deli who, each morning, produced the best of food for all our hungry Coaches. We will miss it next week!

U14 FC Semi Final V Cill na Martra – 4/7

Cill na Martra 8-10, Shamrocks 3-8

Shamrocks under 14 footballers bowed out of the championship at the semi final stage on Friday July 4th in Ballinaspittle. On the night the lads came up against a very strong Cill Na Martra outfit who had talented footballers all over the field.   Shamrocks started brightly and were 4 points up after 10 minutes through captain Shane Downey 2, Cillian Hayes and Dylan O Flaherty, however Cill Na Martra responded with a goal and a point to level midway through the first half.   At this stage the opposition were always looking dangerous especially through their midfielder who was about 6ft 2. Shamrocks found him very hard to handle throughout and to be fair to the opposition they used him very well moving him to centre forward and full forward and back to midfield every so often. Two further points from Dylan O’Flaherty and a rocket of a goal from Shane Downey lifted Shamrocks only to be knocked back again by a goal and 3 points by Cill Na Matra leaving Shamrocks trailing by a single point at half time 2-4 to 1-6.   Shamrocks again started brightly and were in front soon after the restart with another rocket from Shane from a penalty after a foul on Dylan O’Flaherty. Soon after Shamrocks thought they had another goal from Cillian Hayes but the goal was not given, apparently it had not crossed the line. Shamrocks protested this saying that it should have stood as it was two feet over the line.   This was the turning point in the game as the refs decision knocked Shamrocks back and the opposition responded with two quick goals and a brace of points. At this stage Cill Martra were on top and scored a few more goals. Shamrocks replied with a goal from Billy Hughes and a point from Dylan O’Flaherty but injuries to four players took its toll and were beaten well in the end on a scoreline of 8-10 to 3-8. A brave attempt by the lads who are improving all the time.   Team on duty : Robert Van Pelt, Cillian O Mahony, Cathal Murphy, Evan Seymour, Jody Sisk, Daniel O Mahony, Cillian Hayes, Shane Downey, Dylan O Flaherty, Sean Browne, Billy Hughes, Sean Andrews, Luke O Driscoll, Sam Geary, Adam Hallissey and Harry Andrews.

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U8 Hurling Blitz – 5/7

Shamrocks took part in an u8 hurling blitz in Ballinhassig on Saturday morning. They had a very young team, they even had two 5 year olds! They played Carrigaline, Courcey Rovers and Ballinhassig. Despite lacking physique, the lads played very well throughout. The management would like to thank the great support received from the parents.                                                                                                                                                 

Week Ended – July 20th, 2014

U16 HL V Donoughmore – 7/7

Shamrocks 5-13, Donoughmore 1-3   Shamrocks made the long trip to Donoughmore count on Monday with a comfortable win over the home side.   No report received.    

U12 FL V Tracton – 12/7

Tracton 7-5, Shamrocks 2-4   Tracton deservedly got the better of Shamrocks in this league game in Shanbally on Saturday morning last. They were bigger and older and scored 4 goals in the first half to grab hold of the game. Shamrocks cored some nice points through Cian O’Flaherty, Eoin O’Flynn and Ferdia Hayes to keep in touch at halftime, 4-2 to 0-4 for the visitors.   Tracton scored some early points before Adam Maye got a great goal to give Shamrocks some hope. However, Tracton reasserted themselves to run out 16 point victors.   This was surely one of the youngest ever Shamrocks teams at u12 level. Due to holidays and injury, no players on the age were available and indeed, exactly half the team were u9 players. They never gave up and its great to see them so enthusiastic and willing in the Shamrocks jersey. The experience of playing in these games will no doubt stand to them. Our thanks to the parents and the players themselves for letting them play to make up the team on the day.   Team: Aiden Brady, Mark Sisk, Adam Maye, Adam McSweeney, Derry Howard, Fionn Herlihy, Cian O’Flaherty, Aaron Clarke, Michael Foy, Ferdia Hayes, Eoin O’Flynn, Robert Barrett.

JAFC V Valley Rovers – 12/7

Shamrocks 3-11, Valley Rovers 1-10   Shamrocks had a fully deserved win over Valley Rovers in Ballygarvan on Saturday night. After a slow enough start after which they found themselves 0-4 to 0-2 down after 15 minutes, Shamrocks gradually grew into the game and scored 2 vital goals in the lead up to halftime to leave the score 2-2 to 0-4 for Shamrocks.   Shamrocks played up the hill in the second half but had the aid of a slight breeze. They scored some nice points to move 2-4 to 0-4 ahead and then struck for a goal that knocked the stuffing out of Valleys. This and the fact that Valley Rovers were reduced to 14 men with 20 minutes remaining meant that Shamrocks were in a great position. They went 11 points ahead, 3-9 to 0-7 with 13 minutes to go. To be fair to Rovres, they came forward and without ever threathening to win the game, got a few scores back and it finished up in a comfortable enough 7 point Shamrocks victory.   Shamrocks now move on to play Ballygarvan in the SE Semi Final at a later date. Training continues next week.   Team: F. O’Neill, S. Andrews, S. Hurley, M. Prout, D. Hayes, R. Harrington, C. Kidney, B. Mulqueen, A. McCarthy, E. O’Mahony, C. O’Neill, C. Cafferey, D. O’Sullivan, B. Sweeney, J. Shanahan. Subs used – G. Prout, S. O’Neill, S. Collins.

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U16 HC V Brian Dillons – 14/7

Shamrocks 3-13, Brian Dillons 0-4   A totally dominant second half display enabled Shamrocks to move into the Semi Final of the East Board Grade C hurling championship.   Brian Dillons were very competitive in the first half in particular. They played with the significant breeze which as usual for these part, blew right down the pitch towards the big turbine. They really put it up to Shamrocks but the home side battled hard to lead 1-6 to 0-3 at halftime with the wind to come on their backs. Cillian Hayes at half forward scored the gaol midway through the first half and some nice points from Chris Hayes bursting through the middle for a brace, Matt Field, the hard working Killian Murphy at full forward and 2 beauties from James Lynam and Andrew O’Grady at midfield gave Shamrocks a comfortable position at HT.   The expected second half dominance did materialise, however Brian Dillons fought to the bitter end and made it competitive up until 10 minutes into the second half by whcih time Shamrocks had moved into a 2-8 to 0-4 lead, Murphy with the second gaol. With David Barry doing a good job on Dillons best player, Shamrocks were able to stretch out and further points from Hayes, O’Grady and Lynam and a goal from Hayes enabled them to cruise home by a deserved 18 points.   Shamrocks now move on to play Dripsey on August 4th in Ballygarvan in the semi finals.   Team (12 a side) – Cormac Scriven, Nathan Hayes, David Barry, Chris Hayes, Mark Hitchmough, Shane Downey, Andrew O’Grady, Cillian Hayes, Shane Flavin, James Lynam, Matt Field, Killian Murphy. Subs used – Ruairí Meighan, Cathal Murphy, Adam O’Keeffe.

JAHL V Ballymartle – 19/7

Ballymartle 3-17, Shamrocks 0-9   The Shamrock side on duty was put to the sword by a polished and articulated Ballymartle team and unfortunately our side were playing catch-up over the hour. Despite the best efforts of a few, victory was never in doubt. Ballymartle led 1 – 10 to 0 – 1 at the break.

U8 Football Blitz – 19/7

Shamrocks U8 footballers travelled to Innsihannon to play in a blitz last Saturday morning. They had a very young team out but played very well on the day against Crosshaven, Valley Robvers and Courcey Rovers, winning 2 and losing 1 game. Once again, thanks to the parents and supporters, to Seamus O’Flynn and Shane O’Donovan for looking after the lads and a special thanks to Deirdre for providing treats for the lads afterwards!

MFL V Crosshaven – 20/7

Shamrocks 6-13, Crosshaven 0-4   Shamrocks minor footballers had a very comfortable win over the hosts in Crosshaven on Sunday afternoon last.   Apart from the first 5 minutes when Shamrocks took some time to find their feet after a long football lay off, this was mostly one way traffic and there isnt much to report really. Shamrocks led 3-9 to 0-1 at the break, Crosshaven did make more of a game of it in the second half but never even remotely threathened a comeback.   The goal scorers were Andrew O’Grady, Seán Kidney, Tom Murphy, Adam O’Keeffe (2) and Matt Field while Aonghus Boland, Mark Hitchmough and Coby O’Grady along with the aforementioned players did most of the point scoring.   Team on the day: Eric Desmond, Shane Kelleher, Cormac Scriven, Chris Hayes, Coby O’Grady, Tom Murphy, Andrew O’Grady, Nathan Hayes, Aongus Boland, Mark Hitchmough, Seán Kidney, Brendan Crowley. Subs used – Adam O’Keeffe, Matt Field, unused – Darragh Scriven.                                                                                                                                                           

Week Ended – August 3rd, 2014

U16 FL V Ballygarvan – 25/7

Shamrocks 3-13, Ballygarvan 2-4   Another 2 league points for the u16 footballers after this victory over Ballygarvan in the Friday evening sunshine in Shanbally.   The opening half was close and very well fought by 2 teams that appeared well matched. Matt Field opened the scoring inside 3 minutes when he ghosted in behind the Ballygarvan defence to slot home a nice goal. Ballygarvan came bqack into the game, punishing some sloppy Shamrocks play early on, and led 2-2 to 1-1 after 15 minutes. Slowly but surely Shamrocks got on top in the lead up to halftime and some nice points from David Andrews, Nathan Hayes, Mark Hitchmough and Andrew O’Grady and a well worked goal finished to the net by Adam O’Keeffe enables Shamrocks to go in at the short whistle leading by 2-5 to 2-3.   Shamrocks dominated the second half but again it took a while to push Ballygarvan out of the way. Sub Ruairí Meighan, Cillian Hayes, Field, O’Grady, Andrews and Cormac Scriven up from full back all got points to push them 2-11 to 2-4 ahead before Nathan Hayes billowed the net after drifting forward from half back to seal the convincing win in the end. Training continues next Tuesday.   Panel on duty: C. Corkery, C. Scriven, N. Hayes, D. Barry, C. Hayes, A. O’Grady, D. Andrews, M. Field, M. Hitchmough, S. Downey, S. Flavin, A. O’Keeffe, R. Meighan, C. Hayes, C. Murphy.

JAHC Quarter Final V Valley Rovers – 26/7

Valley Rovers 3-11, Shamrocks 2-8   When the final whistle was blown in Ballygarvan Valley Rovers were deserving winners of this quarter final Hurling championship. They simply put in an impressive second half where they hurled with determination and more conviction than some of our lads.

Shamrocks had the perfect start and two early goals from Chris O’Neill and Fergus O’Neill. Alan McCarthy sent over two long range points as well. Unfortunately Alan was soon sidelined due to a hand injury and his loss was huge.

We had a four point advantage at halftime 2-5 to 0-7. Both teams found it difficult to register early scores in the second half but unfortunately Valley Rovers capitalised on some shortcomings to register two easy goals. This set them up to drive on with much more effort and determination. In the final minutes Shamrocks threw the kitchen sink at them, but stout defending and near misses denied Shamrocks a victory they badly needed.

Overall Shamrocks came up a little bit short in many positions. However we had lads who never gave up. Barry Mulqueen, Brian Sweeney, Chris O’Neill, Aonghus Boland and Fergus O’Neill all gave of their best.

We must thank and acknowledge the players for putting in a fine effort this season and progress was certainly made. The introduction of some minor players to the panel made a significant contribution.

Our numbers were tight with only twenty available for the Valley Rovers game. Progress is being made and with magnificent work being done at minor level we can surely look forward to great hurling days ahead.

Coach Declan O’Neill was full of praise for the players and they put in some great training sessions during the year which were enjoyable and worthwhile. Thanks is also due to his colleagues John Hanley, Pat O’Neill and John Twomey (Shanbally) who worked very closely with him. Hurling is a great game and there is no doubt that the work put in this year will bring rewards in the future.

Team: M. O’Neill, S. O’Reilly, S. Andrews, C. Kidney, B. Mulqueen, B. Sweeney, S. Kidney J. Shanahan, A. McCarthy, D. Hayes, S. Collins, S. Keane, D. O’Sullivan, C. O’Neill, F. O’Neill. Subs used – J. Tuohy, A. Boland, C. O’Grady.

U10 Hurling Blitz – 26/7

11 Shamrocks u10 hurlers made the trip to Innishannon on Saturday morning last and competed against Ballinhassig, Courcey Rovers and Valley Rovers. The standard was very high and the Shamrocks lads can be proud of their efforts. Once again thanks to the parents and siblings for their wonderful support and to Seamus O’Flynn and Shane O’Donovan who are doing great work with this group, being out with either the u8’s of the u10’s nearly every Saturday morning. Training continues every Monday at 6.30pm.  

U14 Hurling Challenge V Crosshaven- 28/7

Shamrocks played Crosshaven on Monday night in a hurling challenge. Both teams were short due to injuries but it served bothteams well in their preperation for their upcoming championship matches – in particular Shamrocks who are playing Thursday night. Crosshaven won by 2 goals but the Shamrocks management of Pa Andrews and Colin O’Sullivan were happy with the game and committment of the players. They will surely improve for the outing – their first in a while. Our thanks to Pat O’Neill who refereed the game and to Crosshaven who travelled down to fulfill the fixture.

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U14 HC V Ballinora – 31/7

Ballinora 7-10, Shamrocks 3-5   Ballinora proved too strong for Shamrocks u14’s in the championship first round in Ballinora on Thursday evening. They were older, stronger, bigger, faster and had too many good hurlers for a Shamrocks team that battled right to the end in difficult circumstances.   The game was lost in the first 10 minutes as Shamrocks found themselves 4-4 to 0-1 down. Ballinora were scoring at will and the Shamrocks selectors Pa Andrews and Aidan O’Leary were busy men on the line making multiple switches to try and stem the tide. The changes worked alright and Shamrocks gradually got into the game whcih was played in a great spirit between 2 committed teams. Shamrocks went in at the halftime whistle losing by 4-6 to 1-5 after points from Seán Andrews, Cillian Hayes, Shane Downey and Daniel O’Mahony.   Whatever chance Shamrocks had of getting back into the game evaporated straight after the break when their lively corner forward, who was too fast and clever for our lads, banged in two quick goals. Shamrocks battled away and Cillian Hayes and Seán Andrews scored goals but it was nowhere near enough.   The championship season is over but the mentors are determined to continue with the hurling training, which will take place next Tuesday and Thursday at 11am for the U14’s and the U12’s. The 14’s have a league game on August 14th at home to Castlelyons.   Team: C. Hourihan, E. Seymour, F. Herlihy, H. Andrews, C. Murphy, RVP, C. Hayes, S. Browne, S. Downey, D. O’Mahony, S. Geary, S. Andrews. Subs used – C. O’Mahony.

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JAFC Semi Final V Ballygarvan – 2/8

Shamrocks 1-11, Ballygarvan 2-8   Shamrocks and Ballygarvan finished all square in the Semi Final of the JAFC in Minane Bridge on Saturday night after a pulsating hours football, plus 11 minutes in total of injury time.   Shamrocks had a point on the board inside 2 minutes but Ballygarvan hit a purple patch thereafter and scored 1-2 in quick succession to move ahead after 15 minutes. However, Shamrocks gradually came back into it, took over and scored a goal and a few points to leave the score 1-5 to 1-4 in favour of Shamrocks at HT.   Ballygarvan played with the slight breeze and hill advantage for the second half. Early exchanges were tight and both teams traded 4 points. With the game level with 15 minutes to go, Ballygarvan hit a purple patch and scored 1-1 in the space of 2 minutes to open daylight between the teams, Ballygarvan 2-7, Shamrocks 1-6. With 10 minutes to go, it was 2-8 to 1-7 but Shamrocks refused to give up and 4 unanswered points drew the teams level. Both teams had chances to win it in added on time but referee Brian Keniry called time on a great game at almsot 9pm on the splendid Tracton pitch.   The replay is fixed for Minane Bridge next Wednesday night, 7pm.   Shamrocks team: F. O’Neill, S. Andrews, S. Hurley, J. Tuohy, C. Kidney, M. Prout, D. Hayes, B. Mulqueen, M. O’Neill, C. Caffrey, C. O’Neill, E. O’Mahony, J. Shanahan, B. Sweeney, D. O’Sullivan. No subs used.                                                                                                                                                              

Week Ended – August 10th, 2014

U16 HC Semi Final V Dripsey – 4/8

Shamrocks 2-14, Dripsey 1-6.

We played Dripsey in the U16 hurling championship semi final in Ballygarvan on Bank Holiday Monday in ideal conditions. Both teams started with high hopes of making the final of this competition.

We started brightly and soon had a few points on the board from the reliable source of David Andrews and Andrew O Grady. David Andrews then settled the early nerves as he scored the games first goal. U14 player Cillian Hayes chipped in with two excellent points in succession. We scored some fine long distance points; Dripsey themselves scored some points from frees and in fairness to them could have had more than their half time total of 4 points if they were more accurate in front of goal. The half time score was 1-8 to 0-4 in our favour.

We started the second half in good shape and soon found our scoring range again with some great points from both play and placed balls. Then the ever improving Mathew Field finished an excellent move to the back of the net to finish the game as a contest. We scored some more points from Mark Hitchmough, David Andrews and Andrew O Grady. Dripsey to their credit kept going to the end and scored 1-02 without reply. We now move on to the final on Saturday week. The training, effort and commitment of these lads along with their minor colleagues is now showing it’s true rewards.

Team. Nathan Hayes, David Barry, Ruari Mehigan, Cristopher Hayes, Mark Hitchmough (0-01), Shane Flavin, Andrew O Grady (0-05), Cillian Hayes (0-02), David Andrews (1-04), Mathew Field (1-02), Adam O Keeffe, Daniel O Mahony. Subs used Criostóir Corkery& Evan Seymour.

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Mark Hitchmough and the Shamrocks players have the situation well under control.

JAFC Semi Final Replay V Ballygarvan – 6/8

Ballygarvan 3-9, Shamrocks 0-7   Shamrocks adult playing season is now at an end after this 11 point defeat in the Football Championship replay on Wednesday night in Minane Bridge.   Shamrocks went with the same line up from the drawn game and played with the wind advantage and hill in the first half. Ballygarvan certainly had their homework done on Shamrocks from the first game and tweaked a few things and managed to get in the Shamrocks players faces from an early stage. It threw the Shamrocks players and Ballygarvan did what they did on Saturday night in the drawn game – they punished some sloppy Shamrocks play early doors. The Shamrocks full back line were in all sorts of trouble and Ballygarvan nailed 2 goals inside the first 15 minutes and were unlucky with another 2 as well. It was looking like a mountain to climb from this point; Shamrocks had plenty of possession but kicked a lot of wides. The one time they opened up the Ballygarvan defence, Darragh O’Sullivan blasted his point blank shot straight at the Ballygarvan keeper from 5 yards out. In the lead up to half time and Shamrocks 7 points down, this was a key moment. The half time score was 2-5 to 0-4 in favour of Ballygarvan.   Shamrocks tired manfully after the break and owned the ball for the first 15 minutes but just could not get that all important goal. For all the Shamrocks possession in that time, Ballygarvan basically scored every time they attacked and still led by 2-7 to 0-6. The Shamrocks players were trying hard all through but were contstantly soloing down blind alleys to be met by a wall of red jerseys who drew a line of men across the 45 yard line. It was the same thing over and over again and the Ballygarvan side had the Shamrocks tactics well sussed out -the inside Shamrocks speedsters were denied the space they craved. To further stamp their authority, Ballygarvan broke upfield and scored a quick fire 1-1 to absolutely bury the Shamrocks challenge and season.   Thanks to the managers, selectors and the players for their efforts this year.   Team: F. O’Neill, S. Andrews, S. Hurley, J. Tuohy, C. Kidney, M. Prout, M. O’Neill, B. Mulqueen, B. Sweeney, D. Hayes, C. O’Neill, E. O’Mahony, J. Shanahan, C. Caffrey, D. O’Sullivan. Subs used – S. Collins, S. O’Neill, C. O’Grady, S. Kidney, R. Twomey.

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Shamrocks panel V Ballygarvan in Minane, 6/8/14. Back rowm l to r: R. Murphy, D. O’Sullivan, G. Prout, S. Downey, F. O’Neill, C. Kidney, S. Hurley, S. Collins, M. O’Neill, M. Prout, B. Mulqueen, A. McCarthy, B. Sweeney, D. O’Neill. Front, l to r: R. Twomey, S. Kidney, C. O’Grady, C. O’Neill, S. Andrews, D. Hayes, S. O’Neill, J. Shanahan, J. Tuohy, E. O’Mahony, E. O’Mahony, C. Caffrey.

MFL V Clondrohid – 7/8

Clondrohid 4-11, Shamrocks 1-6   First defeat of the season. Shamrocks were doing well up until 5 minutes to go, losing 2-8 to 1-6 but Clondrohid finished much the stronger. Shamrocks had used up their quota of subs at this stage and picked up some injuries towards the end which meant they had to finish with less players. Full report not reveived.

U10 Football Blitz – 9/8

Shamrocks travelled to Minane Bridge on Saturday morning last in U10 Football and played the local team, Carrigaline and Kinsale with a very young team. They played some great football. Well done to all and in particular Seamus and Shane for their dedication to the team and to the parents and grandparents and siblings for their great support. No training this coming Monday due to holidays.                                                                                                                                                          

Week Ended – August 17th, 2014

U16 FL V Carraig na bhFear – 11/8

Carraig na bhFear gave Shamrocks a walkover in this game due to be played on August 11th.

MHL V Crosshaven

This game was cancelled earlier on in the year due to bad weather. With the deadline for completion of Minor Hurling league games approaching on August, Crosshaven gave Shamrocks the walkover in the end.

MCFC V Ballyphehane – 14/8

Shamrocks had a comfortable victory to the visitors to Shanbally on Thursday evening last. They now qualify for the championship Semi Final V Clondrohid and top the league table after this game that doubled up as league and championship. Full report not received.

U14 HL V Castlelyons – 14/8

Castlelyons 9-9, Shamrocks 5-12   Shamrocks turned in a great display in the U12 hurling league before succumbing to league leaders Castlelyons on Thursday night in Shanbally.   The story of this team this year was that they were struggling to field a team for every game and this was the same again on Thursday evening with four players missing again through holidays. Castlelyons started brightly scoring three points without reply and looked like they were going to take over until Shane Downey goaled to level. The game was fairly even after this with Shamrocks hurling well and contesting every ball and were unlucky to go in losing by 3-6 to 1-7 at half time. Shamrocks were dominant for the first 15 mins of the second half when Seán Andrews took the game by the scruff of the neck scoring 3-3. With ten minutes left Shamrocks found themselves still trailing by a point after playing the better hurling but went further behind when Castlelyons scored a couple of goals. Final score Castlelyons 9-9, Shamrocks 5-12. A highly entertaining game on the night from both sides. From our own point of view a vast improvement from when we started out in February. Team on duty – Conor Hourihan, Evan Seymour, Dylan O’Flaherty, Seán Browne, Seán Andrews, Mark Andrews, Cillian Hayes, Daniel O’ Mahony, Shane Downey, Harry Andrews, Sam Geary.

U16 HC Final V Grenagh – 16/8

Shamrocks 4-6, Grenagh 1-11   Shamrocks are Rebel Óg East C grade Hurling Champions after a tough battle against gallant losers Grenagh in Brinny on Saturday afternoon last.   This was Shamrocks first hurling final in any grade in over 10 years and a win was important in the continuing development of hurling in the club. Shamrocks were the better team in the opening period but found scores hard to come by, despite way more possession. Andrew O’Grady opened his impressive point scoring tally from the throw in with surging run and neat point after 30 seconds. The Shamrocks backs in particular were catching almost every high ball out of the sky in impressive fashion and were providing the forwards with plenty of possession but plays seemed to break down at vital points in front of goal, while a few goal chances went a-begging due to last minute Grenagh defending.   After 12 minutes, the score was still 0-1 to 0-0 in favour of Shamrocks but then Shamrocks went on a bit of a scoring burst through O’Grady (who was brilliant throughout from frees) and led 0-4 to 0-1 before Shamrocks burst through for 2 vital goals. The hard working David Andrews scored the first after a great run through the middle while Matthew Field scrambled home another for goal number 2 and Shamrocks looked well set at HT, 2-4 to 0-2 ahead.   The second half was much tighter. Andrew O’Grady put Shamrocks further ahead with a monster 95 yard free which he judged to perfection in the crosswind. David Andrews then slotted home a great team move after great work by Cillian Hayes on the wing and Shamrocks led by 3-4 to 0-3 with 20 minutes to go. But Grenagh were slowly showing signs of revival even after halftime and responded immediately to the Shamrocks goal up the other end with a great goal of their own. This seemed to lift them and suddenly they got on top. They had restructured their team by this stage and the Shamrocks lads seemed to drift back in numbers. As a result, the Shamrocks puckouts were being won by the extra Grenagh players in their halfback line and it was game on.   Shamrocks were struggling to get the ball into their FF line with 12 minutes to go and Grenagh chipped away with a few points. With 3 minutes of normal time left, they had the deficit reduced to 3 points, 3-6 to 1-9. However, under emormous pressure, u14 player Cillian Hayes made a drive forward from the 45 and saw his low shot enter the Grenagh net to open up a 6 point lead entering injury time.   The referee played 6 excruciating minutes of injury time, during which Grenagh scored 2 points while going for goals to leave Shamrocks victorious at the final whistle by a hard earned 4 points.   This was a massive win for the lads and inspirational captain Mark Hitchmough had the pleasue of receiving the trophy afterwards from East Board Vice Chairman and local Valley Rovers man Willie Casey. He thanked the referee, his own club Valleys for their perfect facilities and both teams for a great, hard fought battle with not one dirty stroke from 2 great teams.   This is a fantastic achievement for all the players on the panel, it was a truly great effort put in by one and all. The panel has grown in both numbers and maturity all year. Well done to all. Without doubt, a massive thank you and well done to the management team of David Nolan, Peter Crowley, Dick Andrews, Kevin O’Grady, John Twomey (Ringaskiddy) and to the absent Kieran Lynam. Between them, they have overseen the Minors and u16′s who train together all the time. Also well done to John Jordan who as always is present for every Shamrocks underage team. A special mention to the teams physical trainer Garrett O’Flynn who has brought this team forward in so many ways and is always at hand to help out.   The cup was paraded through Shanbally, Coolmore and Ringaskiddy before looping around past the Andrews household where Club Vice President Breda was on hand to receive the cup on its journey to the FBI. The FBI put on a spread for the team, mentors and supporters afterwards. It was wonderful and a huge thanks to them from the club. It was fitting on a great day that captain Mark Hitchmough brought the cup up the few short steps from the FBI to the Andrews household where it was once again greeted enthusastically by Breda and her husband Bernie. It was no doubt a great fillip for them on their journey to recovery after recent illnesses. Mark was accompanied by all members of the Andrews clan – Dick, David, Seán, Harry, Lauren, Elizabeth, Michelle, Kathleen, Shane, Aidan, Carol and grandson Mark who was home from London for the match. A fantastic moment.   Shamrocks, as a result of this win, now play Clyda Rovers in the Semi Final of the County on Monday week in Carrig na bhFear at 7pm.   Panel: Cormac Scriven, David Barry, Nathan Hayes, Christopher Hayes, Mark Hitchmough, Ruairí Meighan, Andrew O’Grady, Shane Flavin, David Andrews, Cillian Hayes, Matthew Field, Daniel O’Mahony, Adam O’Keeffe, Shane Downey, Criostóir Corkery, Evan Seymour, James Lynam, Killian Murphy, Cathal Murphy.

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Week Ended – August 24th, 2014

MCFC Semi Final V Clondrohid – 20/8

Clondrohid 4-9, Shamrocks 1-4

U16 FC V Lisgoold – 8/9

Shamrocks 7-12, Lisgoold 1-3   Shamrocks are into the quarter finals of the u16 football championship after this very comfortable win over Lisgoold on Monday night. Some of these Lisgoold players must be sick of the sight of the Shamrocks jersey at this stage as this was their second loss in championship to the greens in 3 days. There is not much to report except to say that Shamrocks completely dominated the game from start to finish. Adam O’Keeffe top scored with 2-4.   Shamrocks move on to play Dripsey on a date as yet unknown, such is the volume of games that some of the players have yet to play in different competitions. In the meantime, they can now concentrate on the County Hurling Final on Friday night.

JAFL V Carrigaline – 10/9

Shamrocks 4-16 Carrigaline 1-3 Shamrocks easily won this game played in Shanbally on Wednesday evening. The early part of the game was even enough and indeed, Carrigaline scored an early goal to move ahead but Shamrocks got to grips with the game and the long layoff and started to pick off the scores. They scored some nice points from Stephen O’Neill, Roy Twomey with 2, Darragh O’Sullivan, Cannice Caffrey, Alan McCarthy and Barry Mulqueen. Just coming up to HT, Seanán Collins slotted home goal number one and that left the HT score 1-9 to 1-2 in favour of Shamrocks. Shamrocks then went on a shooting spree in the second half as the Carrigaline challenge wilted with 3 further goals from Stephen O’Neill, Seanán Collins and Barry Mulqueen and some nice points from Mickey O’Neill amongst others. As a result of this win, Shamrocks are guaranteed to finish in the top 3 of the league which means at least a Semi Final appearance after the other clubs play their outstanding games. TABLE HERE. Team: F. O’Neill, J. Tuohy, S. Andrews, R. Murphy, M. O’Neill, R. Harrington, M. Prout, B. Mulqueen, A. McCarthy, R. Twomey, S. Collins, C. Caffrey, S. O’Neill, D. O’Sullivan, D. O’Neill. Subs used – C. Kidney, S. Downey, D. Scriven, J. Wilson.

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U16 CHC Co Final V Killavullen – 12/9

Killavullen 5-13, Shamrocks 5-9   Shamrocks came up just short in the County Final on Friday night in Páirc Ui Rinn after an incredible game of hurling. It was unfortunate that their journey came to an end in these circumstances but the lads can be extremely proud of their herculean efforts all year and in particular in the second half of this game when they threw everything at the Killavullen team who were cruising at HT. Shamrocks never led in this game. After the teams traded some early points to be level at 0-2 to 0-2 apiece after 6 minutes, Killavullen started to get on top and they rattled off 3 points on the trot to open up a 0-5 to 0-2 lead. Their forwards looked dangerous at all times and if one was to pick out a difference between the teams, it was the greater scoring power of the Killavullen forwards – they simply had more of them and in their wing forward Michael Fresh, they had a player who did absolute wreak on Shamrocks in the first half, scoring a hatrick from play by HT despite a number of different markers. He started the goal scoring after 13 minutes but Shamrocks then struck for 2 goals inside a minute; the first from Mattie Field in the 18th minute when he flicked home an Andrew O’Grady free to the net and then a superb Mark Hitchmough goal after he had ran from the 45m line, switched onto his right and buried the sliotar from 10 yards out on the run.   Shamrocks were now level at 2-3 to 1-6 but Killavullen reasserted themselves and drove on until HT, feeding the ever dangerous forwards who responded with a goal in the 21st minute and a few points to open up a pretty sizable lead at HT, 3-9 to 2-4. Shamrocks had a mountain to climb at this stage.   Whatever was said in the dressing room at HT seemed to work the trick for Shamrocks. After the teams shared 4 early points (Shamrocks scores courtesy of Mark Hitchmough and David Andrews), Shamrocks got a bit of momentum going and took over completely from the halfback line on. Again, Shamrocks scored 2 goals in a minute, first from Andrew O’Grady in the 8th minute of the second half with a brilliant strike off his left side 15 yards out and this was followed a minute later by a David Andrews scrambled effort. The cheers from the magnificent Shamrocks support in the stand nearly blew the roof off. Shamrocks were now on top and Killavullen were rocked. Killavullen still led by a solitary point, 3-11 to 4-7 and here came the crucial period of the match. With Shamrocks tails up, they badly needed that equaliser from a psychological point of view but unfortunately they shot 3 consecutive wides from advantegous positions. If even one of these had gone over, who knows what the final outcome would have been.   Killavullen took heart and broke forward and scored a goal again from their half forward (his 4th) and they were up again by 4 points with 14 minutes to go. Shamrocks once again refused to lie down and Mark Hitchmough buried another rocket to the Killavullen net a minute later to bring Shamrocks within a point again. It was just brilliant hurling from both teams at this stage. However, once again, Shamrocks just couldnt reach out and draw level. Killavullen stretched their lead to 3 points, Shamrocks brought it back to 2 courtesy of an O’Grady free, then it went to 3 again and then with the game entering injury time, Shamrocks had it back to a one point game for the 3rd time in the second half. In the 1st of two minutes of injury time, they had a chance to draw level from a difficult free way out on the sideline but it tailed just wide. With most of the Shamrocks players committed to attack, Killavullen won the puckout, fed their centre forward inside and he finished it to Cormac Scriven’s net. Game, set and match to Killavullen. Shamrocks had one more desperate attack but it was cleared and the final whistle went and Killavullen were champions.   The lads were bitterly dissapointed to lose their first hurling match all year at this point. However, they have put in a tremendous effort throughout the year and the simple fact of the matter is that hurling is now in a much better place in the club thanks to this squad and their mentors. Shamrocks hurling is back on the map and the future looks bright irrespective what happened tonight. We congratulate Killavullen on their victory and focus on our positives.   There is so much to look forward to still, even at this stage of the season – the lads are in a hurling league final, the quarter final of the football championship (on Monday night), a minor hurling and football league final and a minor hurling county semi final next weekend. These guys are only getting started – the hurling curve is most definately going up! A massive thank you to the management team of David Nolan, Dick Andrews, Peter Crowley, Kevin O’Grady, Kieran Lynam, John Twomey (Ringaskiddy), Garrett O’Flynn (physical trainer) and mentor John Jordan. They can be very proud of the effort they have put into this (ongoing!) project.   Finally – the Shamrocks support was magnificent. Practically everybody who is a proud Shamrocks man or woman turned out in force tonight in the stand. And they were loud! The lads gave them plenty to cheer about. It was actually hard for the players to hear sideline instructions at times such was the volume of noise and cheering from the travelling support. While Killavullen had a sizable number there as well, i would guess that Shamrocks outnumbered them, and easily outnumbered the supporters for the B final afterwards. We hope to see them all again for the Minor games!   Panel: Cormac Scriven, Christopher Hayes, Nathan Hayes, Ruairí Meighan, Mark Hitchmough, David Barry, David Andrews (1-2), Cillian Hayes (0-1), Andrew O’Grady (1-4), J. Lynam (0-1), Matthew Field (1-0), Killian Murphy, Shane Flavin, Adam O’Keeffe, Daniel O’Mahony, Criostóir Corkery, Evan Seymour, Cathal Murphy.   

U8 Football Blitz – 13/9

The u8 footballers played in a blitz in Minane Bridge on Saturday morning under the management of Seamus O’Flynn and Shane O’Donovan. They won 2 games and lost 1. They played the 3 C’s – Carrigaline, Crosshaven and Courcey Rovers. Despite being a younger then their opponents, the 13 players togged out played great stuff and delighted the big travelling support of parents and siblings. Well done to them. Training continues Monday night at 6.30pm.                                                                                                                                                        

Week Ended – September 21st, 2014

U16 FC V Dripsey – 15/9

Shamrocks 2-7, Dripsey 1-4   Shamrocks qualified for the Semi Final of the championship after a hard fought and tough battle against Dripsey in Ballinora on Monday night. With the recent exploits in hurling, Shamrocks only had the round 1 game a week ago as football preparation and it must have been hard for the lads to try to pick themselves up after losing the county final last Friday night. However, they eventually got motoring after the lay off and deserved the win. The first half was a strange one. Shamrocks must have owned 80% of possession but wasted practically all of it, understandable after all the hurling. They kicked 10 wides before they got on the scoreboard through Nathan Hayes – a full 28 minutes into the game. Before that, Dripsey had scored 1-3 mostly on breakaways and must have been happy with their position coming up until halftime. But Hayes’ point started a mini scoring spree and this was crucial as it was soon followed by a goal from Adam O’Keeffe and a point from Killian Murphy. At halftime, Dripsey led 1-3 to 1-2 having played down the hill. Shamrocks continued to dominate possession after the break and playing down the hill, found scores a little bit easier to come by. Mattie Field with a point and another one from Killian Murphy put Shamrocks a point ahead for the first time before Field gathered inside and slotted home a vital goal that put Shamrocks 4 points up with 15 minutes to go. They tagged on a few scores through David Andrews and Shane Downey and moved 2-7 to 1-3 ahead entering the last 5 minutes. Dripsey went in search of a goal but could only manage their one and only second half score, a point, in injury time. It was a good 2nd half performance from all the players. Panel: C. Corkery, C. Scriven, D. Barry, Chris Hayes, A. O’Grady, N. Hayes, D. Andrews, J. Lynam, M. Hitchmough, A. O’Keeffe, M. Field, K. Murphy, S. Flavin, S. Downey, Cillian Hayes, E. Seymour, C. Murphy, D. O’Flaherty.

MCHC County Semi Final V Kilbrittain – 20/9

Shamrocks 3-15, Kilbrittain 3-8   A powerful second half from Shamrocks propelled them into the Final of the Rebel Óg C hurling Championship after this win over Kilbrittain on Saturday in Ballygarvan. Shamrocks were facing a 2 point HT deficit and were lucky to be only that much behind as they failed to really spark in the game up to that point. However, a 15 minute spell after HT that yielded a superb 3-7 including a hatrick of goals from David Andrews pushed Shamrocks onto the comfort zone and although Kilbrittain battled on to the end, the lads new from a fair bit they were back in another County Final. Kilbrittain looked dangerous in the first half and after Aonghus Boland had opened Shamrocks account with a point, Kilbrittain punished some sloppy Shamrocks wides and went 1-4 to 0-1 ahead after 15 minutes and they looked the hungrier team. Shamrocks made a vital positional switch at this point and it seemed to work as they slowly grew into the game coming up to HT, scoring some nice points from Boland again, Darragh Scriven and Andrew O’Grady and David Andrews from frees. Shamrocks were back in the game at 1-5 to 0-6 behind a HT.   The right things were said in the Shamrocks dugout because Shamrocks blitzed Kilbrittain after HT, scoring a magical 3-7, which featured that hatrick from Andrews, a couple of frees from the same player and also Andrew O’Grady from out the wing, a great point after a strong run from Coby O’Grady, a monster score from Scriven at midfield and some beautifully struck points from the wing from Aonghus Boland who was very much to the fore in the second half. Shamrocks were in total control now with 15 minutes to go, they were leading by 3-12 to 1-6. Kilbrittain never gave up and gave Shamrocks plenty of problems towards the end of the game, especially in the last 6 or 7 minutes when they got through for 2 goals which the lads will not be happy about. But overall, all players made valuable contributions and at this stage of the year, its about getting results. Lisgoold, who Shamrocks beat in the East final, beat the West champions St James in the other semi final straight after so Shamrocks will play Lisgoold next Sunday in the County Final, in Ballincollig with a 2.30pm throw in. Training will continue midweek.   Panel: C. Scriven, S. Kelleher, C. Hayes, S. Kidney, A. O’Grady, T. Murphy, D. Scriven, C. O’Grady, M. Hitchmough, A. Boland, B. Crowley, D. Andrews, R. Meighan, J. Lynam, E. Desmond, D. Barry, S. Flavin, K. Murphy, M. Field, A. O’Keeffe.

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U14 Hurling Tournament V Passage – 21/9

Passage 4-10, Shamrocks 0-5   Shamrocks travelled to Passage on Sunday evening to play their first game in the Dan O’Mahony u14 hurling tournament, which is organised by the Passage club. Shamrocks came up against opposition who are playing a grade higher than them and found the going tough all through. However, they battled hard at all times and thats what the mentors are looking for from this tournament as they cast an eye to next years team. Shamrocks were competitive early on after Passage had opened with a goal and scored some points from Cillian Hayes who was hurling well at midfield. But Passage were finding scores much easier to come by at the other end and led 3-6 to 0-3 at HT. Shamrocks battled hard throughout the second half and cannot be faulted for effort. Shane Downey brought out a great save from the Passage keeper midway through the second half. Howver, passsge finished comfortable winners in the end. The idea of this tournament from a Shamrocks point of view is to get as many hurling games as possible and to learn a few things on the way and hopefully their hurling will improve. Team: R. Van Pelt, J. Sisk, C. Murphy, S. Browne, D. O’Flaherty, R. Mehigan, E. Seymour, C. Hayes, S. Flavin, S. Andrews, S. Downey, H. Andrews, S. Geary, L. O’Driscoll, F. Herlihy.

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Week Ended – September 28th, 2014

U14 Hurling Tournament V Ballinhassig – 26/9

Shamrocks 4-12, Ballinhassig 2-7   A good win for the Shamrocks side in the Tournament orgainsied by Passage GAA. The lads played Passage last week and one could see the benefit of that game in them in this game. They played some lovely hurling at times and this was a much better team performance from the week before. Ballinhassig were short a few on the night hut this shouldnt take from Shamrocks display. They led 2-9 to 1-6 at HT and pressed on in the second half. All players played their part on the night in a game that was expertly refereed by Pat O’Neill. Shamrocks added further goals in the second half. Training continues every Tuesday at 6pm and the next game in the tournament is at home to Crosshaven next weekend sometime. Team: S. Andrews, S. Browne, C. Murphy, J. Sisk, E. Seymour, S. Flavin, D. O’Flaherty, R. Mehigan, H. Andrews, J. Lynam, C. Hayes, S. Geary, S. Downey, R. Van Pelt.     U8 Hurling Blitz – 27/9 Shamrocks travelled to Cloughduv this morning for an U8 hurling Blitz, trhe final one of the year. They had 13 players togged out and fielded 2 team for the forst time this year. Both teams keenly contested a total of 6 games against various opponents and held their own in all games. Most have at least another year at this age group, some even have 3 more years!   Pa Cronin, the Cork Senior Hurling Captain met with all the teams and stood for photos etc. A great experience for the lads. All players got medals at the end.   Our thanks to John Jordan and Paul O’Sullivan for helping out and also to the parents and siblings who were magnificent supporters. A special word of thanks to Seamus O’Flynn and Shane O’Donovan who have driven this and the u10 age group all season.   MCHC County Final V Lisgoold – 28/9   Shamrocks 2-16, Lisgoold 1-12   Shamrocks are county champions of the C grade at Minor hurling level after a 7 point win over Lisgoold at Ballincollig on Sunday last. Shamrocks were the better team and deserved their win but were given a mighty battle by the Lisgoold players who lifted their game especially in the second half. But Shamrocks always had at least a 3 point cushion all through and kept Lisgoold at arms length before pushing on in the closing 5 minutes to seal the win, a win that has been 11 months in the making, as captain Aonghus Boland acknowledged afterwards in his victory speech.   Lisgoold had the first point of the game before Andrew O’Grady pointed a free and the dangerous David Andrews pointed from play inside the first 5 minutes. Lisgoold gave themsleves a massive boost when they got through for a goal after 7 minuteto lead but the Shamrocks reply was immediate; from the puck out Andrew O’Grady controlled a slightly wayward pass on the run through the middle and billowed the Lisgoold net from 7 yards out. Shamrocks now led 1-2 to 1-1 after 8 minutes. This goal started Shamrocks best period of teh game and they were the dominant team up to halftime. With Darragh Scriven’s running from midfield causing all sorts of problems for Lisgoold, along with a dominant halfback line, Shamrocks started to tag on the points from Scriven, Boland, O’Grady from a free and a 65 and David Andrews who was threathening a goal everytime he got the ball inside. Shamrocks led 1-9 to 1-2 with 7 minutes left before HT. Lisgoold stayed in touch through their reliable free taker who was benefitting from some dubious free’s given by the referee. At one stage in the second half, the referee awarded Lisgoold NINE frees in a row. Anyway, just before HT, David Andrews got inside his marker and expertly finished to the far corner of the net to push Shamrocks 2-9 to 1-6 ahead; indeed he could have had 2 more goals on two different occasions – first when he burst through again only to see his piledriver go just over the bar andsecondly, in the last play of the half, David was also through on goal but the referee blew up for halftime in the middle of the movement – a full 30 seconds before normal time was up! All David got for his troubles was a nasty slap behind the ear from one of the oppositon players after the whistle. Shamrocks led 2-10 to 1-6 and were in a healthy position.   Lisgoold came out fighting in the second half and punished all these frees given away. They had clawed the deficit down to 3 points and were right back in the game. Shamrocks scored their first point of the second half a full 14 minutes in from an Andrew O’Grady free (he didnt miss one all afternoon) and that was a vital score. For the next 10 minutes or so, the teams cancelled each other out on the scoreboard, one of which was a vital point from supersub Rory Horgan who made a difference when he came on. He scooped up the 5th rebound no less from one of the Shamocks attacks and slotted it over for a vital point that put Shamrocks 4 points up again. Mark Hitchmough and Aonghus Boland caught some great high ball and Shamrocks were keeping Lisgoold out at the other end. Cormac Scriven brought off one great save when the lead was at 6 points while at the other end, O’Grady, Andrews and Horgan capped the win with some delightful scores. The referee blew the final whistle and Shamrocks had won a county champions, our first sine 2001 when the u16 hurlers won a C hurling title.   The last few weeks have been full of superlatives for this team and players and it was almost inevitable that they were going to win something at this level sooner rather than later. For the u16 players who were involved in the panel and team, I suppose it makes up for the loss in their county final. To have one team knocking on the County Championship door in Shamrocks is somewhat rare and wonderful – to have two is just brilliant and for the last 6 weeks in particular, these players have given total committment to the cause. This panel started training in October last year with the Winter Training Program and it was days like yesterday that made it all worthwhile. It takes a special group of players to do what they did.   There were some happy men on the sideline yesterday. Bainisteoir David Nolan, ably assisted by Peter Crowley, Kevin O’Grady and Dick Andrews were thrilled by the win. Along with John Jordan who has been present at every training session and match, this was sweet. The work these people have selflessly put in behind the scenes has been incredible. Garrett Flynn has been an inspired choice as physical trainer and his work has been central to this success. Underage Chairman John Twomey and Adult Chairman Pat McCarthy were also happy men yesterday in Ballincollig. Shamrocks captain Aonghus Boland accepted the championship trophy on behalf of the team and in his excellent victory speech, he thanked the team, management, supporters, referee, the Ballincollig club for the use of their excellent pitch and last but not least a sporting Lisgoold team who lost nothing in defeat.   A special word of thanks to the supporters who once again were out in force to roar on the lads. This writer was on the dugout side of the pitch but when a Shamrocks player took a shot at the posts from the far side, we all knew immediately whether it was going over or not such was the cheer and noise from the Shamrocks supporters. Magnificent.   After the trophy and the players had been paraded once again through Shanbally, Coolmore and Ringaskiddy, this time on Kevin O’Gradys truck, the Ferry Boat Inn laid on food and refresements for the players, mentors and parents. Our thanks to them. And once again, the captain of the victorius Shamrocks team brought the cup the few short steps up to Bernie and Breda Andrews along with the members of he Andrews clan which featured sons, daughetrs, players, grandsons, grand daughters, cousins and many more besides. Again, a wonderful moment.   Panel: Cormac Scriven, Shane Kelleher, Seán Kidney, Nathan Hayes, Mark Hitchmough, Tom Murphy, Darragh Scriven, Andrew O’Grady, Aonghus Boland, Coby O’Grady, David Andrews, David Raleigh, Rory Horgan, Christopher Hayes, Brendan Crowley, Eric Desmond, David Barry, Killian Murphy, James Lynam, Shane Flavin, Ruairí Meighan, Adam O’Keeffe.   The game was recorded professionally so will be available on DVD soon. More details to follow on that.

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Week Ended – October 12th, 2014

U16 FC Semi Final V Whitescross – 4/10

Shamrocks 4-9, Whitescross 2-5  

This wonderful season that Shamrocks are having is still continuing after our victory in Crosshaven against a well organised Whitescross outfit.    We started well and had our noses out in front after David Andrews twice found the net and some lovely points from James Lynam and Mark Hitchmough. Whitescross started to settle and scored 1-2 approaching half time. Mattie Field then got a crucial goal for us just before half time to leave us leading on a scoreline of 3-4 to 1-2.    Whitescross made the better start to the second period and put over some nice points from play. James Lynam, Mark Hitchmough and Cillian Hayes then added some points for us but we were knocked back again when Whitescross got their second goal of the game. Mark Hitchmough then finished off a great Shamrocks move to leave us in the driving seat approaching full time. Both sides exchanged a few more points and when Adam O Keeffe the pointed from the move of the game, it was all over.    Everyone contributed to this great win. Cristeoir Corkery was excellent between the posts. The five backs namely, David Barry, Ruari Mehigan, Chris Hayes, Cormac Scriven and Nathan Hayes played their hearts out. Mark Hitchmough in midfield was dominating matters and the forwards of James Lynam, Andrew O Grady, Mattie Field, Adam O Keeffe and David Andrews had their scoring boots on. The remaining members of the panel were Dylan O Flaherty, Shane Flavin, Shane Downey and Cillian Hayes. We now play Grenagh in the final later this week.

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Adam O’Keeffe tries to break inside the FB line

U8 Football Blitz – 4/10

Shamrocks travelled to Ovens on Saturday morning to take place in the final U8 football blitz of the year, an event hosted by Eire Óg. Shamrocks travelled with 16 players, their biggest turnout this year so far which was fantastic. As a result, they fielded 2 teams and each team played 3 games each with plenty of fun and participation. Out of the 6 games played, Shamrocks won 5 which was pleasing. All the players were brilliant on the morning.   Once again the coaches would like to thank the parens,s grandparents, siblings and supporters who have travelled throughout the division and beyond this year. Also, the club would like to thank Seamus O’Flynn and Shane O’Donovan who have entered, organised and coached the team to all these blitzes, all year long. Our thanks to Paul O’Sullivan and John Herlihy who helped out on the morning. There is some great work going on in the club at these young age groups.   Afterwards, Cork dual player Damien Cahalane met with all the teams including the Shamrocks ones where he posed for photographs etc. All players got medals as well. This was the last u8 blitz of the year.   Training continues on Monday evening at 6.30pm.

JAFL Final V Ballygarvan – 5/10

Ballygarvan 2-12, Shamrocks 1-6

Ballygarvan are the league and championship champions after seeing off the brave challenge of Shamrocks on Sunday morning in Riverstick. The game tuirned out as most people expected – Shamrocks put it up to a Ballygarvan team still in county championship action but ran out of steam in the end before Ballygarvan pulled away in the last 10 minutes or so.   The Shamrocks effort over the hour is not reflected in the scoreline. They battled hard throughout and pushed Ballygarvan all the way but a lack of scoring power up front compared to their opponents cost them. Shamrocks played with the wind in the first half and led 1-4 to 0-5 at HT with Cannice Caffrey scoring the goal after he expertly finished low to the Ballygarvan net 20 minutes in. The game was even enough at this point but Ballygarvan were doing enough to keep within a goal at HT, such was the wind advantage. Brian Sweeney and Barry Mulqueen also kicked some nice Shamrocks points on top of 2 frees from Joseph Shanahan.   Shamrocks turned to play against the wind in the second half and faced a mammoth task to keep Ballygarvan at bay. Again, it was level 10 minutes into the second half at 1-4 to 0-7 but Shamrocks hadnt scored and their play was breaking down too easy, they found it nigh on impossible to break through the Ballygarvan defensive wall that they erected on their 45 yeard line – very similar to the championship replay between the sides. Ballygarvan slowly got on top and moved ahead and soon after scored a vital goal to lead 1-8 to 1-4. Shamrocks scored their first point of the second half 16 minutes in from Caffrey and had the deficit down to 1-10 to 1-6 with 8 minutes to go (McCarthy free). They had a chance to go within one score at this juncture but two attempts at pointing a simple free in front of the posts went wide, Ballygarvan broke and scored a point to effictively end the game. They added a further 1-1 to win out by double scores – an unfair reflection on the part a gallant Shamrocks team played in the contest.   Well done to the players and management on all the efforts throughout the year. While silverware eluded them, they certanly made plenty of progress and the signs are good for next year and beyond.   Team: F. O’Neill, S. Andrews, M. Prout, J. Tuohy, M. O’Neill, R. Harrington, D. Hayes, B. Mulqueen, A. McCarthy, J. Shanahan, C. O’Neill, C. Caffrey, S. Collins, B. Sweeney, D. O’Sullivan. Subs – C. Kidney, S. O’Neill, S. Hurley, J. Wilson.

U14 Hurling Tournament V Crosshaven – 5/10

Crosshaven 10-9, Shamrocks 5-4

Shamrocks played their 3rd game of the Passage tournament on a wet Sunday evening and it was a performance to forget. Last week Shamrocks played some good hurling against Ballinhassig but this week it was the total opposite. Their first touch was non existant and Crosshaven, in particular in the second half just did as they pleased and simply waltzed through the Shamrocks team. It was hard to fathom how the lads cant show any consistency from week to week on the hurling field. Shane Downey and James Lynam were the only Shamrocks players to score on a miserable afternoon all round. Shamrocks play Tracton next week in their final game, details to follow. Training for anybody not involved in other activities on Tuesday at 6pm.

RVP Blockdown

U16 FC Final V Grenagh – 9/10

Shamrocks 2-7, Grenagh 1-5

Panel: Criostóir Corkery, Cormac Scriven, Ruairí Mehigan, David Barry, Nathan Hayes, Chris Hayes, Mark Hitchmough, James Lynam, Andrew O’Grady, Matthew Field, Adam O’Keeffe, David Andrews (capt), Cillian Hayes, Killian Murphy, Shane Flavin, Shane Downey, Cathal Murphy, Dylan O’Flaherty.

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U16 FC Co Semi Final V Newmarket – 11/10

Shamrocks, 4-12, Newmarket 3-8

Less than 48 hours after winning the East title on Thursday night, Shamrocks faced off against the Rebel Óg North representatives Newmarket in Ballyanley on Saturday afternoon and they saw off the challenge of the North West Corkmen in fairly impressive fashion. Shamrocks were full value for the win and only for a bit of tiredness and complacency setting in in the last 5 minutes, the result would have been even more impressive.   Newmarket started impressively and scored a goal after 20 seconds after the ball broke inside the Shamrocks full back line. The next 10 minutes or so were even with both teams cancelling each other out on the scoreboard. David Andrews, Andrew O’Grady and James Lynam had Shamrocks points. Shamrocks gradually got to grips with the Newmarket challenge which maily came from their players in the middle third of the pitch and their lively wing forward. By the midway point of the first half it was 1-3 to 0-3 for Newmarket but then Shamrocks caught fire in 5 wonderful minutes between the 19th and 24th minutes. First Adam O’Keeffe stabbed home a rebound to the Newmarket net after finding himself in the right place at the right time. In the next attack, Andrew O’Grady made a great run and jink inside before blasting to the bottom corner. And then in the 24th minute of the half, wing back Christopher Hayes scored a brilliant goal when he got on the end of a great team move on the left hand side of the goal and blasted right across the keeper to the far top corner. At this point Shamrocks led by 3-4 to 1-3 and that 5 minute spell was crucial and would prove the winning of the match. At HT, Shamrocks led 3-5 to 1-4.   Shamrocks scored the first point of the second half through David Andrews. From there on until the 50th minute, Shamrocks remained in charge of proceedings. Andrew O’Grady added his second goal after 10 minutes of the second half and Shamrocks were cruising at 4-8 to 1-5 in front. A few substitutons were made and they all made vital contributions as well. Shane Downey hit the post with a shot, Dylan O’Flaherty set up a score while Cillian Hayes kicked a great point as well. Shane Flavin got on the ball a lot when moved out to midfield. But naturally, the legs were beginning to tire on the Shamrocks players and Newmarket finished strong and scored 2-2 in the last 5 minutes but at that stage, the game was over and the referee blew the final whistle shortly afterwards.   The final is not fixed yet and Shamrocks opponents are not known as of yet either but it will most likely be next Saturday afternoon. Details to follow.   Panel on duty: C. Corkery, R. Mehigan, C. Scriven, C. Hayes, N. Hayes, D. Barry, M. Hitchmough, M. Field, A. O’Grady, J. Lynam, D. Andrews, A. O’Keeffe, S. Downey, Cillian Hayes, S. Flavin, D. O’Flaherty, E. Seymour, D. O’Mahony.

U10 Hurling Blitz – 11/10

The u10 hurlers played in their final blitz of the year in Inis Eonáin this morning and played Courcey Rovers, Valley Rovers and Ballinhassig, winning 2 from 3 games. Shamrocks had 12 players togged and ready for action. Only one player was on the age so next years u10’s should be stronger.   Congratulations to James and Darragh who played their first blitz. All the lads played well on the day. Thanks to the parents and supporters once again and to Seamus and Shane on the sideline. That was the last u10 hurling blitz of the year, we’re expecting a football one next Saturday. Training continues on Monday at 6.30pm.

U14 Hurling Tournament – 12/10

Shamrocks u14’s closed out their season on Sunday morning with a defeat to Tracton in the Passage Tournament. Shamrocks were short some regulars due to soccer so Tracton gave them 3 players to make it 14 a side. The Shamrocks players battled hard and there were some great performances. Luke O’Driscoll was Shamrocks best player in his new position of corner back. Daniel O’Mahony played in goal because of an ongoing toe injury and he played a great game and hit plenty of ball. Robert Van Pelt will be delighted with his goal in the second half. Shane Downey also scored some nice points. Sam Geary left his usual corner forward position and was spotted at one stage in the full back line! Overall, the manager Pa Andrews was happy with the outing and the players performance. That’s now the last game of the season and training will now stop on Tuesday nights. Thanks to Tim Hayes and John Jordan who helped out as well.   The season started back on February 2nd and in that time, the u14’s played a total of 21 matches, 11 hurling and 10 football. This is way more than the 16 that the mentors had planned at the start of the year. The highlight was the run to the semi finals of the football championship. 1 player, Evan Seymour played all 21 games while Jody Sisk played 20. This is the type of commitment needed to be successful. Well done to both. Thanks to the management, to the parents and especially to all the players who played a part this year. While they didn’t win any trophies, with more hard work, the lads will surely have success down the line. Just keep practising the hurling over the winter and we hope to see all the players back in 2015.

Week Ended – October 19th, 2014

MFL Final V Clondrohid – 13/10

Clondrohid 4-11, Shamrocks 1-11

U16 HL Final V Grenagh – 18/10

Shamrocks 2-11, Grenagh 3-7

Shamrocks pulled of a late victory over a battling Grenagh side in the final of the hurling league, in a game played in Grenagh on Saturday afternoon. Losing by 3 points having already played 3 minutes of injury time, Grenagh could be forgiven for thing that they had gotten revenge for both championship final defeats to Shamrocks over the past 2 months. However, as is the case so often this year with this Shamrocks side, they never gave up and first Christopher Hayes scored a spectacular equalising goal into the top corner of the Grenagh net and then  2 minutes later, in the 65th minute of this thrilling contest, David Andrews scored the winning point with the last puck of the game. Grenagh were absolutely deflated while Shamrocks were delirious with a win that seemed entirely out of grasp just 5 minutes previous.

Grenagh played with the aid of a gale force wind in the first half. Shamrocks more than held their own and Andrews up top was getting them the scores, mostly from play. Shane Flavin with the opening point and Andrew O’Grady with 2 frees also got on the scoreboard. Meanwhile, the Grenagh freetaker was on form and anything inside the halfway line he was pointing. There was never more than a point between the teams in that opening half. Shamrocks were more than happy to go in at the break leading by 0-6 to 0-5 with the wind to come.

Grenagh never lay down in the second half facing the breeze. They scored an early goal in the second half after a goalmouth scramble and led 1-5 to 0-6. Shamrocks tagged on a pair of points from David Andrews and Cillian Hayes. Shamrocks then got an Andrews goal 12 minutes into the second half and led by 2 points. We thought that Shamrocks would kick on from there but Grenagh themselves showed great heart and character playing into the wind. They were the ones who were doing all the hurling now and scored another scrambled goal midway through the second half to move a point up. Both teams cancelled each other out over the next 10 minutes without scoring. Shamrocks eventually equalised with 5 minutes remaining from an Andrew O’Grady free out on the right wing which he struck beautifully.

So entering the last 5 minutes of normal time, the teams were level. The next score was always going to be vital and the home team got it after the ball broke out to their half forward. He hit a rocket to Cormac Scrivens net. Into injury time now and Grenagh led by a goal. But there had been a couple of injuries in the tough conditions and there was time left. Shamrocks stuck at it and Hayes, just like last week in the football when he scored a beauty to the top corner from wing back, struck again to level it before Andrews scored the winner, mucsh to the delight of the Shamrocks players, mentors and supporters.

Ed Warren of Rebel Óg East complimented bith teams on an excellent game of hurling for this time of year, a game that could have gone either way up until the very end. He presented the Shamrocks captain, Mark Hitchmough, with the Rebel Óg East C Hurling League trophy. Mark thanked the mentors especially after the match, people who have put massive effort into this project all year long. He also thanked the players, the parents, the supporters and Grenagh for a fantastic match.

As a result of the win, Shamrocks have now qualified for the knockout stages of the County Hurling League, which will be run off on a knockout basis.

Panel on the day: C. Scriven, D. Barry, N. Hayes, C. Hayes, M. Hitchmough, R. Meighan, A. O’Grady, J. Lynam, D. Andrews, C. Hayes, M. Field, S. Flavin, S. Downey, D. O’Mahony, E. Seymour, A. O’Keeffe.

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MHL Final V Cobh – 19/10

Shamrocks 6-14,  Cobh 4-12

A second final in two days for our young hurlers, and a second league title. The story goes on for the U16/Minors combination as a brilliant second half powered them to an 8 point victory over Cobh in Crosshaven on Sunday afternoon in the Rebel Óg East C Hurling League.

Cobh could not have asked for a better start. They caught Shamrocks cold by scoring 2 goals and a point inside the first 4 minutes, without reply. Shamrocks were on the ropes but slowly grew into the game after that early setback. Andrew O’Grady was striking the ball sweetly from frees and he started the Shamrocks fightback by landing a few scores from way out the field. Cobh were still causing problems at the other end with their strong direct running at the Shamrocks backs that opened up the defence. But some of their attacks were thwarted by some last gasp defending which kept Shamrocks in the game, 2-4 to 0-5 behind with 10 minutes to the break.

Meanwhile, Rory Horgan was becoming a huge influence on the game at the other end, using his physicality to good effect to open up scoring opportunities for both himself and others. He really set the Shamrocks comeback ball rolling with a fantastic run and ground shot to the roof of the Cobh net after 21 minutes and then Andrew O’Grady picked up a loose ball inside the Cobh full back line and drilled another bullet to the Cobh net. After the early goals conceded, Shamrocks were more then happy to go in level at HT, 2-5 apiece.

Shamrocks were the better team in the second half, one that featured 8 goals and 26 points. Shamrocks went in front after an early Andrew O’Grady goal and they were never led after that. David Andrews was growing in influence out on the right wing and he knocked over a few points. Darragh Scriven then added another goal and Shamrocks led by 7 points, 4-10 to 2-9 with 15 to go. Cobh replied with a goal and a point to close the gap to 3 points. However, Shamrocks kicked on again and Rory Horgan scored a wonderful goal off his left side from 20 yards out to leave Shamrocks 6 points ahead, 5-12 to 4-9 with 5 minutes left.

Once again, Cobh refused rto give in and scored 3 points on the trot to give themselves hope but Andrew O’Grady completded his hatrick at the other end when his 30 minute free went all the way to the net, whether he meant it or not we don’t know. Shamrocks tagged on a pair of points from O’Grady again and Aonghus Boland.

Aongus Boland accepted his 3rd trophy this season from Ronan Cogan, representing Rebel Óg East. Ronan thanked both teams for a great sporting contest. Boland thanked the mentors, the players and the supporters for their support while praising the efforts of the gallant Cobh side.  The victorious panel then went to the FBI for refreshments afterwards with their families and supporters. The club wish to thank the FBI for their hospatility once again.

Shamrocks have now qualified for the knockout stages of the County League. More details to follow. Well done to all on a magnificent victory. Its easy to forget that this same minor team played and lost a Minor Football Final only the previous Monday so for them to pick themselves up and perform at such a high level is just magnificent. Not to mention the U16’s who had played another final on Saturday!

Panel on the day – C. Scriven, D. Barry, S. Kelleher, S. Kidney, T. Murphy, N. Hayes, D. Scriven, A. Boland, A. O’Grady, C. O’Grady, D. Andrews, R. Horgan, M. Hitchmough, C. Hayes, B. Crowley, S. Flavin, R. Mehigan, E. Desmond.

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The winning panel – Back Row, l to r: Rory Horgan, Shane Kelleher, David Barry, Brendan Crowley, Shane Flavin, Cormac Scriven, Mark Hitchmough, Andrew O’Grady, Darragh Scriven, Tom Murphy. Front, l to r: Sean Kidney, Eric Desmond, Christopher Hayes, Coby O’Grady, Aonghus Boland, David Andrews, Nathan Hayes, Ruairi Mehigan.

Week Ended – November 9th, 2014

U16 C FC Final V Grenagh – 2/11

Grenagh 4-9, Shamrocks 4-8

Shamrocks lost out in the Rebel Óg County C Football Championship Final in CIT on Sunday last after a magnificient and pulsating game of football. Grenagh will feel that they deserved this one on this occasion after suffering defeats to this Shamrocks team on a few occasions this season, in both hurling and football. They were a much improved team in this game.

Grenagh started very well and looking back at it, the first 10 minutes were catastrophic for Shamrocks. Grenagh waltzed through for 3 goals inside those 10 minutes and led by 3-2 to 0-3. Shamrocks had a mountain to climb. They started to go for goals early on as well which mightnt have been the best of options. Still though, they fought back well after those early setbacks and grew into the game. They scored a goal of themselves but Grenagh still led at halftime by 9 points, 4-4 to 1-4 and were looking full value for the win.

Shamrocks needed a massive effort in the second half and not for the first time this season, they turned in a quite brilliant display to overturn the deficit. They got 2 quick goals and added a few points and it was all Shamrocks now. They went ahead with 5 minutes to go with another goal and it looked in the bag. However, some sloppy defending in front of the Shamrocks goal was pounced upon twice for 2 points and Grenagh led amazingly by a point. The referee played 4 minutes of extra time but Shamrocks just couldn’t get their hands on the ball as Grenagh played down the clock. The final whistle meant this Shamrocks team had lost their 2nd county final of the year, one in hurling and one in football. It was a cruel end to a magnificent effort.

Well done to the players and management team for a great year. The supporters were incredibly loud in the CIT stand as well. Well done to them.

Shamrocks panel: C. Corkery, C. Scriven, D. Barry, C. Hayes, N. Hayes, R. Mehigan, M. Hitchmough, M. Field, A. O’Grady, J. Lynam, A. O’Keeffe, D. Andrews, C. Hayes, S. Flavin, K. Murphy, S. Downey, C. Murphy, D. O’Mahony, E. Seymour.

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Nathan Hayes V Grenagh in CIT

MCHL Co Final V Carbery Rangers – 9/11

Shamrocks 6-12, Carbery Rangers 3-12

Shamrocks Minor hurlers added the Co C league to the championship that they won back in September with a deserved 9 point win over Carbery Rangers in Newcestown on Sunday afternoon last. Shamrocks were fancied to win this going in and did so but Carbery Rangers made them battle all the way for the victory, in conditions which were just about expected for this time of the year – the ground was heavy enough but it was playable.

Shamrocks played with the strong wind in the first half and led 1-3 to 0-0 inside the first 10 minutes after Rory Horgan had scored an early Shamrocks goal. Darragh Scriven and Aonghus Boland also got on the score sheet for Shamrocks early on. Carbery Rangers scored their first point after 8 minutes and Shamrocks led 1-3 to 0-1. It was generally agreed that the strong wind was worth at least a 2 goal advantage at HT and Shamrocks worked hard to reach that target as HT approached. Rangers were tough opponents and battled hard and stayed in touch with a couple of points into the wind. Shamrocks were hitting aimless balls high into the air instead of trying to find the 2 inside forwards. The wides began to pile up. However, after being quiet up until then, Shamrocks got the boost of 3 David Andrews goals before HT which sandwiched a Rangers goal. Andrew O’Grady was on form from frees and 65’s and the last score of the half saw him point free from 105 yards out (yes we measured it!). At HT Shamrocks were happy to lead 4-6 to 1-4.

Carbery Rangers turned to play with the wind in the second half but Shamrocks battled hard to maintain their 10 point lead. The teams swopped some early points and at the three quarter stage Shamrocks still led by 10 points, 4-10 to 1-9. Carbery Rangers staged a mini revival around then to give themselves some hope by scoring 1-1 and Cormac Scriven in the Shamrocks goal was forced to pull off a few smart saves as well. However, his brother Darragh and Tom Murphy scored vital points before Andrew O’Grady struck with a great goal after a great run through the middle of the Carbery Rangers defence. Shamrocks now led by 5-11 to 2-10 with 10 minutes left but things weren’t home and hosed yet as Rangers were hurling with a lot of belief at this point. They scored another goal and closed the gap further but up went Shamrocks and super sub Christopher Hayes buried a 6th Shamrocks goal after another long run in from the wing. He soon followed up with a point from play and that was it, Shamrocks were Co Champions again.

A truly mnagnificent effort from this Minor set up all year. There are so many people to thank but first and foremost its the players. They have been fantastic and have responded to the training and matches in a positive way since last October when they started training, I wouldn’t even begin to guess how many times they have met up as a panel. Well done to the management team of David Nolan, Peter Crowley, Dick Andrews, Kieran Lynam, John “Socket” Twomey and Kevin O’Grady who were ably assisted by John Jordan all year long. They have put in hundreds of hours on the pitch and in the planning room for this year to happen. They also run the U16’s hence the big backroom team. A massive part of the success has been Garrett Flynn as physical trainer who has been at every match and training session all year as well and brings a professionalism to everything he has done. Its easy for players then to respond to that.

It wasn’t easy to rise up for a match in November in the league on a cold afternoon in West Cork but about 40 hardy Shamrocks souls brought their voices and colour to the occasion. They and others have been wonderful all year and have travelled all over the county to support the team. Many thanks to them.

Captain Aonghus Boland accepted his 4th trophy after the match and thanked everyone and wished a sporting Carbery Rangers all the best. For Aonghus and Rory Boland (and David Raleigh who was unavailable today), this was their last ever Minor match and what a way to finish – with a trophy. We wish them well and we fully hope and expect to see them in a Shamrocks jersey at both u21 and Junior level starting next year! The rest of the players are all underage again next year when Shamrocks step up to the B grade. Who would have thought that 18 months ago!

Panel: C. Scriven, S. Kidney, S. Kelleher, T. Murphy, M. Hitchmough, N. Hayes, D. Scriven, C. O’Grady, A. O’Grady, A. Boland, D. Andrews, R. Horgan, C. Hayes, D. Barry, E. Desmond, B. Crowley, R. Mehigan, S. Flavin, K. Murphy.

CLICK HERE FOR PHOTOS

Week Ended – November 30th, 2014

U16 Co HL Semi Final V Bantry Blues – 15/11

Shamrocks 1-19, Bantry Blues 1-7

Shamrocks U16 hurlers took care of a stubborn challenge from Bantry Blues in Cloughduv on Saturday to qualify for the Co CHL Final. Bantry played well and hung in there until 15 minutes from time when a Cillian Hayes goal signalled a fine finish from Shamrocks and they eventually won by 12 points.

Conditions were heavy in Cloughduv as was expected and the ball was wet throughout. After a slow start by Shamrocks, they capatilised on some wayward Bantry shooting to stretch away to a 0-7 to 0-1 lead after 20 minutes, David Andrews from play and Andrew O’Grady from frees doing the Shamrocks scoring. Bantry scored a few points before HT but Shamrocks responded from Cillian Hayes and an O’Grady bomb from way out the wing and led 0-9 to 0-3 at HT.

Bantry Blues fought hard throughout and even though Shamrocks had more hurling then them, Bantry were dogged, good at hooking and blocking, physical and cute with ball in hand as well. They got the boost of a goal 10 minutes into the second half when a free from out the field somehow went all the way to the Shamrocks net. Suddenly, Shamrocks were only 2 points ahead, 0-10 to 1-5. However, they never panicked and took over thereafter, boosted by that Cillian Hayes goal which really was the nail in the coffin. Shamrocks turned on the style from then on until the end, none more so when Ruairí Mehigan pointed with 8 minutes left. You will not see a better score at this time of the year in any grade – a brilliant team movement with exquisite handling and stickwork finished by Mehigan. Andrews and O’Grady again from placed balls did the bulk of the scoring. Shane Flavin also scored a beauty towards the end.

Team: C. Scriven, D. Barry, N, Hayes, J. Lynam, M. Hitchmough, R. Mehigan, A. O’Grady, C. Hayes, D. Andrews, C. Hayes, M. Field, S. Flavin. Subs – C. Murphy, A. O’Keeffe.

Underage AGM – 20/11

Shamrocks underage held their AGM before a bigger than normal crowd in the Grace McCarthy rooms last Thursday. They heard comprehensive reports from the outgoing chairman John Twomey (Ringaskiddy) and Secretary Patrick Andrews. It was an extremely successful year, one of our best ever, particularly from the Minor and U16 combinations. Garrett Flynn in his role as Physical Trainer was also thanked. Both men thanked all the players, mentors, coaches, parents and supporters for their work during the year.

The Adult Executive were represented by Vice Chairman Kieran Lynam and Treasurer John Twomey (Shanbally). John spoke on behalf of the Adult Executive. He praised all the great work being done at underage. Paddy Andrews was thanked as Board delegate and also the sponsors. Paddy as Treasurer presented his comprehensive Treasurers report.

The Officers were then elected for 2015. All officers were returned with one change. A Secretary was still being spoken to as to their role. The outgoing Secretary Patrick Andrews was elected as the Clubs first ever Coaching Officer. Other positions filled were those of board delegates, childrens officer and childrens delegate. A list of team manager and mentors were read out. There were still a few positions to be filled but as the season doesn’t start until March next year, the club have time to get that rectified.

After any other business, the meeting concluded.

U16 CHL Co Final V Dromtarriffe – 23/11

Dromtarriffe 1-17, Shamrocks 2-10

Shamrocks lost out for the third time in a County Final this year at u16 level after Dromtarriffe deservedly won by 4 points at the excellent Mallow venue on Sunday afternoon. Shamrocks can have no complaints here as Dromtarriffe were far more potent up front and had a nice spread of scorers. Shamrocks, in particular in the second half when they were chasing the game, were almost totally reliant on Andrew O’Grady who was excellent from placed balls.

Dromtarriffe opened up a 0-4 to 0-1 lead after 15 minutes and looked much the better team. Shamrocks responded with a goal that was a mistake from the Dromtarriffe keeper who let a high ball from Andrew O’Grady slip through his legs. This seemed to rouse Shamrocks and they went in front with a few points from O’Grady and David Andrews (well held by the Dromtarriffe defence all through). The teams swopped points up until HT and it was a draw at this point, 1-5 for Shamrockss, 0-8 for Dromtarriffe.

Dromtarriffe got a  dream start to the second half when their left wing forward scored 3 points in as many minutes from play straight after the second half began. Shamrocks responded and actually went ahead with 17 minutes to go but just couldn’t push on at this point, just like in the other finals. At 1-9 to 0-11 ahead, this was the turning point, and even though we had a good 10 minutes of no scores from either side, Dromtarriffe were creating all the scoring opportunities and went ahead with 2 quick points with 10 minutes to go. Then Dromtarriffe were awarded a penalty which they converted and suddenly with time almost up, they led by 6. Shamrocks got a goal back through David Andrews but Dromtarriffe totally controlled the 6 minutes of injury time that the referee played. Game and season over.

Well done to Dromtarriffe – a very good hurling team. Commiserations to a gallant Shamrocks team who fought hard to the bitter end but it wasn’t to be on this occasion. They’ve had a fantastic year by any standards and have resurrected hurling in the club. Well done and thanks to all the players and mentors for a great and wonderful year. Thanks also to all the parents for their support and to the supporters who made the long journey today.

Team: C. Scriven, N. Hayes, D. Barry, R. Mehigan, M. Hitchmough, C. Hayes, A. O’Grady, J. Lynam, D. Andrews, S. Flavin, M. Field, C. Hayes. Subs used – D. O’Mahony, A. O’Keeffe.

Week Ended – December 28th, 2014

AGM Dec 2014

The AGM of the club in preperation for 2015 took place in the Grace McCarthy Rooms on Thursday night last before a medium sized attandance. The outgoing chairperson, Secretary and Treasurer gave their very detailed and comprehensive reports to the meeting.

All outgoing officers of the Executive were returned unopposed (Club President Michael Brennan conducting the election), with the exception of Vice Chairperson. The outgoing Kieran Lynam was not putting his name forward due to other committments and the Chairperson Pat Mccarthy thanked him for his trojan work over the past few years on the Exec. Declan O’Neill is the new Vice Chairperson.

The outgoing hurling selectors will be willing to go again in 2015. However, Mark Hickey will not be going forward in 2015 in the football managers position. This means that the incoming Executives first job is to source a replacement.

The Chairperson reported that Shamrocks will be entering both U21 B competitions in 2015, indeed training has already started. Aidan O’Leary, Shane O’Donovan, Colin Brady and Jonathan Tuohy will be leading up that team; the best of luck to them.

Underage Celebration Mass – 7/12

The underage shared a lovely occasion on Sunday morning in Shanbally Church when Fr Seán celebrated a Mass in honour of the underage teams in 2014 and their success. Everything went off smoothly with the readings and prayers of the faithful being read by members of the Minor and U16 teams. All the members of those panels brought a splash of green to the church in their club tracksuits, along with the team mentors. There was a good sprinkling of players from all the other teams and their mentors as well. The 7 trophies that were won during the year were also on display in the church.

Thanks to all who made this such a great occasion. Thanks to Fr Seán (an accomplished footballer himself from Bantry Blues) who remarked that it was great to see not just success for the teams but anything that brings together young people with a common purpose at a local level. Thanks also to Jaquai Scriven and the choir who sang faith of our fathers among others.

The Adult club were represented by Club Chairperson Pat McCarthy and Treasurer John Twomey (Treasurer). The underage committee were represented by chairperson John Twomey (Ringaskiddy), Paddy Andrews (Treasurer) and our new underage Secretary Jonathan Tuohy. Best of luck Jonathan.

Afterwards, the Club made a donation to The Oratory Restoration Project (Click here)

The Oratory Restoration Project

One of Ringaskiddy’s old landmarks is the Oratory located on the main street, and one of the smallest churches in the dioceses of Cork and Ross.

In the late 1800’s this was a League of the Cross  Hall. The League of the Cross Society was a temperance movement in line with the original Fr. Matthew Temperance Society. The hall was also used for concerts, functions, card drives, handicrafts including crochet, knitting and sewing, dressmaking etc.

The records show that on St. Patrick’s Day 1883 a Ball and Soiree was held there commencing at 9pm with an admission charge of 4 shillings. The Secretary’s name displayed on the ticket was D.B. O’Flynn.

Circa 1915 the local residents made a request to have the hall used as a chapel. Locals had to walk to Shanbally for Sunday and weekday masses. In 1923 the building was refurbished and enlarged. The work was done voluntarily by local people including shipwrights who made the seating and joinery from pitch pine kindly supplied by Palmer Bros. the adjoining Boat year. Retired navy man William James was one of the leaders of this initiative and he crafted the statue of Christ carrying the Cross from local sea sand and gravel. He also made the pillars near the front door and the belfry containing a ship’s bell recovered from the stricken White Star Liner The Celtic which floundered on the rocks near Roches Point in 1928.

In more recent times the altar was replaced and crafted by a local man Martin O’Donoghue. This unique altar came from a 250 year old piece of Sweet Chestnut kindly donated by the Newenham family of Coolmore.
The little church, because of its simplicity and style, has endeared itself to generations of Ringaskiddy people and countless visitors from far and wide.

Earlier this year, major renovation work commenced on the church. Much needed remedial and re-construction had to be done. One of the imperatives of the undertaking was the conservation and protection of all its distinctive artefacts and original features. Gladly this work has proceeded at pace under the watchful eye of Rev. Fr. Sean O’Sullivan PP and the Oratory Fundraising committee headed up by Mr. Wojciech Garbuz. It is hoped to have it re-opened for Christmas ceremonies. Full credit must be attributed to all concerned including the Building Contractor, the Architects and Engineers.

On Sunday morning last the Shamrock G.A.A. Club, the oldest Club in the area, dating back to 1898, made a generous donation to the Committee.
Of course, like all such projects, a debt will have to be paid off after the re-opening. Hopefully, people will include a donation among their Christmas gifts for 2014.

Club Chairman Pat McCarthy presents Wojciech Garbuz of The Oratory Restoration Project a donation from the club. From left: Dick Andrews (underage), Michael Brennan (Club President) Helen Prout (Club Vice President), Fr Seán PP, Gertie O’Driscoll (Oratory Restoration Project), Geraldine Twomey, Kieran O’Flaherty (Oratory Restoration Project), Wojciech Garbuz (Oratory Restoration Project), Pat McCarthy (Club Chairperson), John Twomey (Treasurer), Jonathan Tuohy (underage Secretary), John Twomey (Underage Chairperson)

Schools Visit to Monkstown NS

Members of the Juvenile Club visited Monkstown National School last Thursday to show the boys and girls of the school the trophies that the club won in 2014. All 7 trophies were on display and were received by the Principal, Ciara Iníon Ni Bhuaigh. The event was organised by Jaquai Scriven, herself a member of the staff and it was a particularly proud occasion for her as her 2 sons, Darragh and Cormac were on hand to show the trophies. 2 other proud Monks were also present, both former pupils of the school – our Minor Hurling captain Aonghus Boland and Club Coaching Officer Pa Andrews.

The group visited every class and were received with a bualadh bos láimhe in every room.  Its not often the local club brings SEVEN trophies to a school. Our thanks to the Principal, Jaquai, and all the members of staff for accommodating the club, during a busy time in the lead up to Christmas. It is hoped to visit the other schools in the new year.

Puc Fada 2014 – Sunday December 28th

Shamrocks held a very successful Puc Fada on Sunday in Ringaskiddy/Shanbally. There was a very satisfactory turnout and it was pleasing to see the underage players make up a large proportion of the competitors, along with a nice sprinking of the girls football and ladies club members.

Colin O’Sullivan was the overall winner with a fantastic 20 shot over the parcours, followed by Stephen Jordan with 21 shots.

Other winners included Emer O’Neill (Ladies), Joseph O’Keeffe (U16’s), Cathal Browne (Minors), Dick Andrews (over 40’s) and Declan O’Neill (over 50s)

Afterwards, club Secretary Dave O’Flaherty and Club Chairman Pat McCarthy thanked everyone who took part, some who came home from Australia just for it.

Mark Hickey and the Shamrock Bar once again sponsored the event so our thanks to them.

That’s it for 2014, a very busy year overall. Thanks for reading!!!