Month Ended – January & February 2016

 

AGM 2016- 7/1

 
The AGM of the club in preparation for 2016 took place in the Grace McCarthy Rooms on Thursday night last before a good 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, with the exception of one or two positions. The outgoing Vice Chairperson Declan O’Neill did not put his name forward – Kieran Lynam resumes his role as Vice Chairperson. Dave O’Neill stepped down as players rep and a replacement will be appointed hopefully next week when training for the season ahead resumes. The two outgoing SE Board representatives John Hanley and Declan O’Neill stepped down and the club will have to find replacements for them over the next 2 weeks.

 

Michael Kidney was elected as the football manager while Colin Brady was elected as the hurling manager. The outgoing u21 hurling selectors of Colin Brady, Jonathan Tuohy and Aidan O’Leary were returned while it was decided by the meeting that the minor selectors for 2016 will look after the u21 football, which will be played around March, coinciding with the  beginning of the minor season.

 

The Chairperson reported on the ongoing fundraising efforts for the clubs major redevelopment project which is hoped will commence this year also.

 

James McCarthy RIP (Feb 2nd)

 
On Monday night the very sad news of the death of James McCarthy, late of Loughbeg, broke.

 

 

 

 

 

JAFL V Courcey Rovers – 21/2

 

Shamrocks 5-11, Courcey Rovers 0-5
 

Shamrocks got their league campaign off to a winning start with this victory over a clearly weakened Courcey Rovers team. The pattern of the game was very similar to the league game played almost 12 months back and will resemble nothing like the championship matches that both will play later on in the year. Shamrocks were always in control of the game and led 2-6 to 0-1 at halftime; with a nice spread of scorers including Brian Sweeney and Seanán Collins alongside points from new captain Barry Mulqueen, Mark Hitchmough, David Andrews and Andrew O’Grady.
Courcey Rovers got a couple of early points in the second half but Shamrocks got on top again and registered more scores from Sweeney, Collins and Philip Brady (goals) and further points from Brady, Sweeney and Mickey Prout. Much tougher tests lie ahead for sure. Training continues this week with a possibility of a challenge match next weekend.

Team: F. O’Neill, S. Andrews, S. Hurley, J. Browne, S. Kidney, C. Kidney, M. Hitchmough, A. McCarthy, B. Mulqueen, D. Andrews, M. Prout, A. O’Grady, S. Collins, B. Sweeney, R. Twomey. Sub used – P. Brady.

 

 

JAFL V Tracton – 27/2

 

                                                                                                                                                  

 

Week Ended – 13th March 2016

 

U16 CFL V St Vincents – 5/3

 

Shamrocks 4-7 , St Vincents 6-9

Shamrocks started our season last Saturday in Shanbally where we played a strong St. Vincents side in the U16 C league. We held our own in the first half but found the going difficult in the second period when we played against a very strong wind. Great credit is due to the players and to Tim Hayes & Jed for running the line. A lot of our players are just out of the U14 age group and is a credit to them that they put up such a good performance against a much stronger and bigger team. The final score was 6-09 to 4-07. We travel to play Castlelyons this Sunday where we hope to see more players turn out for the club. 

 

 

MCFL V St Vincents – 6/3

 

Shamrocks 5-15, St Vincents 2-2

The minor footballers got off to a winning start against St Vincents second team in Shanbally on Sunday afternoon. The conditions were poor for both teams but the players on duty give it their best shot and there was no doubting Shamrocks victory in the end.

 

Shamrocks (wearing their changed strip of green, white and black to avoid a colour clash with our visitors) were slow enough to settle but a couple of goals midway through the first half settled them down and enabled them to dictate matters from then on. Playing up against the hill, Shamrocks controlled possession and it was obvious that it was only a matter of time until St Vincents caved in, despite their brave efforts. Shamrocks led 2-5 to 1-0 at halftime.

 

St Vincents mounted a mini revival of sorts just after halftime with a quickfire 1-1 but Shamrocks reasserted; they finished much the stronger and tagged on 2-6 in the last 15 minutes without reply to stamp their authority on things. There was a nice spread of scorers throughout the team. Overall, a workman like display, job done, with plenty more in the tank for sure. Players used: C. Corkery, J. Lynam, D. Barry, J. O’Keeffe, C. Scriven, D. O’Mahony, M. Hitchmough, D. Andrews, A. O’Grady, S. Flavin, K. Murphy, C. Hayes, C. Murphy.

 

 

 

John Twomey (Ringaskiddy) Presentation – 12/3

John Twomey (Ringaskiddy) last month won top prize in the Cork GAA Clubs Draw, a Kia Rio. It continued a remarkable run of success for our memebers following on from last years success by Diarmuid Murphy in the April draw 2015 and many others. John officially received his prize today from Pearse Murphy (Tressurer of the Cork Co Board) and John Coleman of Coleman Motors, Milstreet who sponsor the prize each month. We also had other members of the clubs adult and juvenile executive and some of our current players.

 

 

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Award 1 Coaching Course -12/3

Well done to all 21 coaches who have participated in and completed the Award 1 coaching course in the club over the past two Saturdays. The course was 16 hours long so required a decent level of committment. Shamrocks had members from mostly the Juvenile section and Girls Football and it was great to see six members of our current minors (or just out of minor) making vital contributions and completing the course.

 

Shamrocks are now hopefully set up for many years of top level coaching with up to 90% of our current Juvenile team mentors at Award 1 level – you will travel very far before you will meet a figure like that. Also, thanks to the two tutors who facilitated the course over the past two weekends – Brendan O’Driscoll (St Finbarrs) and Shamrocks own Pa Andrews.

 

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14 Football Challenge V Ballinhassig – 13/3

Shamrocks and Ballionhassig played out am football challenge on Sunday morning in Shanbally. The Shamrocks mentors of Pa Andrews and Jed O’Flaherty were very happy with the turnout and performance of the players with some lovely football being played throughout. Thanks to Ballinhassig for travelling down for the game and hopefully it sets up both teams for their respective league games. Shamrocks start next Saturday away to Lisgoold.

 

 

U16 CFL V Castlelyons – 13/3

 

Shamrocks 3-13, Castlelyons 4-2

Our U16 footballers had a great win last Sunday in Castlelyons in the  second round of the U16 football league. Both teams were evenly matched through out this contest and Shamrocks only pulled clear in  injury time when they scored two very late goals. 

 

Shamrocks started well and had the better of the earlier exchanges but was finding it difficult to get scores on the board. Castlelyons got two qick goals before the interval leaving us trailing at half time on a score line of 2-01 to 0-05. Words of encouragment were given to the players and sure enough when the game resumed they dominated all over the pitch. Some lovely  points were scored from play. We were five points to the good when Castlelyons were awarded a late penalty which they converted to leave just two points in it. A great interception by Evan Seymour in goal for Shamrocks resulted in play switching to the other end and after a great move, Seán Andrews found the back of the net to leave Shamrocks with breathing space again. Shane Downey pounced on a poor clearance from the kick out and he also scored a goal to leave Shamrocks winning by eight points in the end. Special word of praise must go to Tim Hayes and Jed O’ Flaherty who led the side line with these lads.

 

Team, Evan Seymour, Jody Sisk, Cathal Murphy, Mark Sisk, Nikita (0-01), Daniel O Mahony, Cillian Hayes(0-06), Dylan O Flaherty(0-02), Shane Downey(2-03), James O’Callaghan (0-01), Cillian O Mahony, Seán Andrews(1-00).

                                                                                                                                                                                                           

 

Week Ended – Sunday April 3rd

 

U14 FL V Lisgood – 19/3

 

Lisgoold 3-6, Shamrocks 2-8

Shamrocks and Lisgoold played out a cracker in Lisgoold on Saturday afternoon in Shamrocks first league game of the season and it resulted in a one point win for Lisgoold.

 

The teams were evenly matched all through but Shamrocks will rue the 17 wides they kicked over the hour. The scoring was low in the first half with Lisgoold leading 1-3 to 0-5 at HT with Shamrocks getting points through Harry Andrews, Shane Darcy and Adam Maye.

 

Shamrocks were the better team in the second half and went ahead after a great team move was finished expertly to the net by Cian O’Flaherty. Lisgoold responded almost straight away with a goal of their own to level things up but Shamrocks edged ahead by 3 points after a few points from Eoin O’Flynn (frees), and Dylan Gregson.

 

The game hung right in the balance with 10 minutes to go. Shamrocks scored a great Eoin O’Flynn goal to push them 3 points clear with time almost up but the home side were really pushing now and the dam broke unfortunately from a Shamrocks point of view in injury time with that last second 1-1 concession. It was a fantastic display from Shamrocks and despite the result, it argues well for the season.

 

Team: D. O’Brien, N. O’ Sullivan, P. Dorney, C. O’Flaherty, M. Sick, A. McSweeney, D. Gregson, A. Maye, H. Andrews, S. Darcy, E. O’Flynn, J. O’Leary.

 

 

MCFL V Lee Gaels – 20/3

 

Lee Gaels 2-7, Shamrocks 1-10

Shamrocks played out a draw with Lee Gaels in Drispey on Sunday March 20^th. Lee Gaels got a last minute point to draw the game.

 

 

U21 BFC V Kinsale – 28/3

 

Shamrocks 3-17, Kinsale 1-7

Shamrocks are through to the quarter finals of the B championship after beating Kinsale in Round 1 in Minane Bridge on Easter Monday. Shamrocks were always in control of this game and two early goals from David O’Sullivan and Andrew O’Grady settled them. Further points from those two players along with David Andrews, Darragh Scriven, Brendan Crowley and Aonghus Boland left them ahead at the break 2-10 to 0-3.

 

Kinsale were an improved team in the second half and scored 1-3 in the space of 5 minutes midway through the second half. But Shamrocks remained in control through a goal from sub Chris Hayes with further points from O’Grady, Scriven, Boland, Andrews and Shane Kelleher who had ventured up the field. They play Ballygarvan in the quarter finals.

 

Team: C. Corkery, S. Kidney, S. Kelleher, D. Barry, C. Scriven, C. O’Grady, M. Hitchmough, A. O’Grady, D. Andrews, A. Boland, D. Scriven, D. O’Sullivan, B. Vrowley. Subs used – J. O’Keeffe, C. Hayes, J. Lynam.

 

 

U16 FL V Brian Dillons – 28/3

 

Shamrocks 6-14, Brian Dillons 1-0

Shamrocks had their second win in a row of the season on Easter Monday with a comfortable win over Brian dillons in Shanbally on Easter Sunday evening to complete a good day for the club. Shamrocks were in total control from the first minute and all the players were on form, including the younger members of the panel making their debuts.

 

Panel on duty: B. Hughes, E. Seymour, Nikita, D. O’Flaherty, D. Allen, C. Murphy, Cillian Hayes, D. O’Mahony, S. Andrews, H. Andrews, S. Geary, C. O’Flaherty, S. Downey, S. Darcy.

 

 

MCFL V Crosshaven – 31/3

 

Shamrocks 6-12, Crosshaven 4-11

Shamrocks got off to a flying start against Crosshaven on a beautiful Thursday evening at a busy Shanbally pitch. They were 2-5 to 0-0 ahead after 15 minutes before Crosshaven started to come more into the game. David O’Sullivan and Chris Hayes did most of the scoring damage with some nice scores coming from other players. Crosshaven then scored 2-4 themselves to lead the HT score standing at 5-5 to 2-4 for Shamrocks.

 

The second half was even enough with both teams dominating. Shamrocks again started the stronger and scored 1-4 early on before Crosshaven came back into it and made a right go of cutting the defecit. They brough it back to 7 points but that was as close as it got as Shamrocks had enough work done earlier in the game to win. Hurling this Saturday at home to Vincents.

 

Panel: C. Corkery, C. Murphy, D. Barry, J. O’Keeffe, M. Hitchmough, D. O’Mahony, D. Andrews, Cillian Hayes, A. O’Grady, S. Flavin, Chris Hayes, D. O’Sullivan, R. Meighan, S. Fox, S. Downey, K. Murphy.

 

 

MCHL V St Vincents (B) – 2/4

 

Shamrocks 3-20, St Vincents (B) 0-10

Shamrocks hurlers started off the league year with a comfortable win over St Vincents second team in Shanbally on Saturday evening. St Vincents were game and battled hard throughout and had some good hurlers throughout the pitch but Shamrocks found the scores much easier to come by and 20 points is impressive shooting no matter what the level of the game.

 

Andrew O’Grady and the impressive Matthew Fleming were the first half goal scorers for Shamrocks who led 2-9 to 0-5 at HT. Chris Hayes, Cillian Hayes, Ruairí Meighan (some great long range shooting), David Andrews, Mark Hitchmough, O’Grady again and Fleming with his second goal completed the scoring as Shamrocks eased to the win. This was the players second game in 3 days and they responded well to the challenge.

 

Team: C. Scriven, C. Murphy, D. Barry, J. O’Keeffe, M. Hitchmough, R. Meighan, A. O’Grady, Cillian Hayes, D. Andrews, S. Downey, Chris Hayes, M. Fleming.

                                                                                                                                                                                    

 

Week Ended – Sunday April 10th

 

U16 CHL V Laochra Óg – 4/4

 

Laochra Óg 5-11, Shamrocks 6-7

Our first U16 hurling league game was played in Shanbally and resulted in a 1 point defeat to Laochra Óg team. Both teams found the heavy ground conditions tough going.

Laochra scored some early scores but the excellent combination of Cillian Hayes and Seán Andrews kept us within touching distance as the half time whistle approached. Daniel O’ Mahony was put on a man marking job on their excellent full forward and coped very well throughout. A great goal scored by Seán Browne had only 4 points in it at half time. Shane Downey in the half forward line was causing their defense all sorts of problems. He scored an excellent goal and this was followed by another from Luke O Driscoll.

Both teams were tiring in the heavy pitch as full time was approaching. Sam Geary scored two late goals to leave just a point between the sides in injury time. Alas we couldn’t find the equaliser. Still in all it was a great team performance and everyone can feel proud of themselves. Team: Harry Andrews, Cathal Murphy, Evan Seymour, Jody Sisk, Daniel O Mahony, Dylan O’Flaherty, Seán Browne (1-00), Seán Andrews (0-02), Shane Downey(1-02), Cillian Hayes (1-03), Luke O Driscoll (1-00) Daniel Allen, Sam Geary (2-00), Mark Sisk.

 

U12 CFL V Tracton – 5/4

 

Tracton 2-3, Shamrocks 1-5

 

 

 

JAHL V Courcey Rovers – 6/4

 

Courcey Rovers 3-14, Shamrocks 0-8

 

 

 

U14 HL V St Vincents – 7/4

 

St Vincents 5-5, Shamrocks 0-6

St Vincents handily won the first hurling league game of the year in Shanbally on Thursday night. Shamrocks preparations for the game were disrupted for various reasons and one could see that they were slow to get to the pace of the game, especially in the first half when St Vincents did most of their damage. Shamrocks played with the strong breeze in the first half but it was Vincents who hurled the better and seemed to control matters. They threatened scores way more than Shamrocks and went in ahead at HT leading 3-3 to 0-4. The Shamrocks scores came from Seán and Harry Andrews.

 

Shamrocks were more competitive in the second half without ever threatening to make a comeback. St Vincents scored 2 goals straight after after HT to put the game to bed. Shamrocks kept at it and never gave up. One or two goalscoring chance went narrowly wide before Harry Andrews scored 2 points late on.

 

Team: E. O’Flynn, F. Herlihy, D. Gregson, C. O’Flaherty, M. Sisk, A. McSweeney, T. Sheehan, H. Andrews, P. Dorney, M. Foy, A. Maye, D. O’Brien, J. Coleman. Sub used – S. Andrews

 

U12 FL V Cill na Martra – 9/4

 

Shamrocks 6-12, Cill na Martra 2-5

 

 

 

Week Ended – Sunday April 24th

 

JAHL V Tracton – 13/4

 

Tracton 2-14, Shamrocks 0-9

 

U14 HL V Aghada – 14/4

 

Aghada 4-10, Shamrocks 5-5

 

That first win of the season is only a game or two away after a great effort away to Aghada on Wednesday evening. Numbers are tight in the hurling but all players are making themselves available which is a good sign going forward – and the level or performance was a step up on the previous week. 

 

These were two evenly enough matched teams for the entire game. Both teams led at different stages, the largest being 7 points for Aghada in the first half; however Shamrocks were in battling mode on this occasion and fought back through goals from Eoin O’Flynn and Philip Dorney. Aghada led 3-3 to 2-2 at HT. 

 

Shamrocks played their best hurling after the break and went ahead courtesy of 2 goals from Mark Sisk and points from Sisk, Adam Maye and Seán Andrews. However, Aghada’s greater natural hurling ability came through towards the end and despite a Seán Andrews goal, Aghada held on for the win after a very exciting game. 

 

The mentors were pleased with the players attitude and performance.

 

U21 BFC Quarter Final V Ballygarvan – 16/4

 

Ballygarvan 4-7, Shamrocks 2-11

 

Shamrocks were knocked out of the championship by Ballygarvan in Minane Bridge on Saturday afternoon. This was a strange game with both teams playing sweepers, double sweepers and players all over the place.

 

Shamrocks threatened to run away with it early on and opened up a 1-5 to 0-1 lead in the early stages and were full value for it. Every time they got the ball into the forwards they scored. Ballygarvan reasserted themselves and fought back onto it and scored 3-3 to haul themselves right back into the game at HT in a very open game. At that point Shamrocks led 2-8 to 3-3.

 

The second half was bizarre. It was very congested around the middle and Ballygarvan had all the possession but scores were very hard to come by for both teams. On the few occasions Shamrocks attacked, they struck the post once and squandered 2 other quilt-edged goal chances as well.

 

From a Shamrocks point of view, one just knew that something wrong was going to happen and with 8 minutes to go, Ballygarvan finally got through for the all important score when a high ball in wasn’t dealt with and the ball ended up in the back of the net. Ballygarvan were ahead for the first time in the game.

 

Both teams exchanged points but the damage had been done and Ballygarvan held on to advance to the semi final.

 

Team: C. Corkery, S. Kelleher, S. Kidney, C. O’Grady, M. Hitchmough, D. Barry, C. Scriven, A. O’Grady, D. Scriven, A. Boland, D. Andrews, B. Crowley, D. O’Sullivan. Sub used – C. Hayes.

 

 

U12 HL V Grenagh – 17/4

 

 

MFL V Lisgoold – 21/4

 

Shamrocks 5-16, Lisgoold 2-13

 

No report available

 

 

U14 FL V St Catherines – 21/4

 

Shamrocks 4-14, St Catherines 3-7

 

The u14 footballers made the long trip to Ballynoe on Thursday night and made it count with a great second half display. This was a good game between 2 good teams and Shamrocks took a while to get into the game after St Catherines went 1-2 ahead early on. Shamrocks responded with Cian O’Flaherty and Harry Andrews goals and a few points from Seán Andrews and Harry Andrews. Shamrocks were under pressure in the backs all through and were constantly making adjustments to stymie the dangerous St Catherines forwards. Daniel O’Brien in the Shamrocks goal made some smart saves as well at times. Shamrocks led 2-4 to 1-5 at HT with it all to play for in the second half. 

 

Shamrocks dominated the early part of the second half and built up a 6 point lead 10 minutes in. However, St Catherines refused to give up and dominated the next 7 minutes to actually go back into the lead with 15 minutes left, 3-7 to 3-6. This is when some astute positional switches kicked in and the Shamrocks players took over, scoring a flurry of points and a goal from sub Eoin O’Flynn to seal the win. Mark Sisk, Tim Sheehan and the two Andrews were the points scorers. 

 

The one disappointing thing from the night was the (accidental) hand injury suffered by the captain Dylan Gregson which necessitated his removal from the game early on. Dylan is a cast after the incident and the club wishes him a full and speedy recovery. 

 

Panel: D. O’Brien, J. Coleman, D. Gregson, D. Carroll, A. McSweeney, P. Dorney, M. Sisk, T. Sheehan, A. Maye, S. Andrews, S. Darcy, H. Andrews, C. O’Flaherty, F. Herlihy, E. O’Flynn, M. Foy. 

 

 

JAFL V Ballygarvan – 22/4

 

Shamrocks 3-11, Ballygarvan 3-9

 

Shamrocks played their first match in 2 months on Friday night and battled to a tight win over Ballygarvan. It was a closem contest all through and could have gone either way but when Ballygarvan drew things back to within a point towards the end on a few occasions, Shamrocks were able to respond with vital points at the other end.

 

After the teams exchanged early frees, the game came to life with a flurry of goals from both teams. Andrew O’Grady scored Shamrocks first goal but this was cancelled out by not one but two Ballygarvan piledrivers within a minute of each other. Ballygarvan in front but then Shamrocks went down the field and scored two goals of their own through full forward Brian Sweeney. The teams exchanged points up until halftime, at which point Shamrocks led 3-5 to 2-5.

 

Ballygarvan scored from a penalty shortly after halftime after Shamrocks had gone 4 clear. The game got somewhat scrappy thereafter with Ballygarvan having most of the possession and scoring the odd point but Shamrocks were able to respond each time. The 2 point margin that existed throughout the second half remained until the final whistle, thanks to points from Joe Shanahan, Mark Hitchough and Chris O’NEill and a great save from keeper Fergus O’Neill in the Shamrocks goal.

 

Team: F. O’Neill, J. Tuohy, S. Hurley, S. Andrews, M. Hitchmough, C. Kidney, J. Browne, B. Mulqueen, A. McCarthy, D. Scriven, J. Shanahan, A. O’Grady, S. Collins, B. Sweeney, R. Twomey. Subs used – M. Jordan, S. Cunningham, D. Hayes, D. O’Neill, R. Harrington.

 

 

 

 

 

Noah Sisk wins Shamrocks Lotto – April 2015

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                                                                                                                                               

 

Week Ended – Sunday May 1st, 2016

 

U16 FL V Kiltha Óg – 26/4

 

Shamrocks 6-12, Kiltha Óg 2-4

 

Shamrocks had a comfortable win over Kiltha Óg on Tuesday evening in Castlemartyr. After losing their first league game of the year, the lads have responded well to the mentors of Tim Hayes, John Twomey and  Jed O’Flaherty’s help and have won 3 matches in a row. There is great team spirit being shown throughout the team and while numbers are reasonably tight, they are now top of the table. Thanks to the players and parents for their enthusiasm so far. This was their last game before the break for exams and we’ll take this opportunity to wish any players doing their Junior Cert the best of luck. Its hoped to keep ticking over by doing one session a week going forward.

 

JAFL V Belgooly – 26/4

 

Shamrocks 4-14, Belgooly 1-7

 

No report available but news filtered through that Darragh O’Sullivan and Roy Twomey did most of the scoring damage for Shamrocks who recorded a good win.

 

 

U14 FL V Fr O’Neills – 28/4

 

Shamrocks 2-8, Fr O’Neills 1-5

The u14 footballers got their second win a in a row on Thursday evening with a hard fought win over the visitors from East Cork. Once again, for the second week in a row, the Shamrocks team faced into their captain being taken to hospital after only 5 minutes resulting in a total rejig of the team. And faced by a much bigger and older team playing with the strong wind, the Shamrocks players dug deep in this one, especially in the first half when playing up the hill. Before Seán Andrews went off injured, he scored Shamrocks first goal from a well struck penalty and Shamrocks led 1-2 to 0-2. The backs were playing brilliant stuff when facing the elements, snuffing out many attacks. Shamrocks bundled home another goal but Fr O’Neills finished the half with a goal of their own. At HT, Shamrocks led 2-2 to 1-2.

 

Shamrocks scored 0-3 early in th second half, all from play and this gave them the cushion to hang on for the rest of the macth. All 19 players who togged out played a part (13 a side) and the mentors were delighetd with the win after but more importantly the attitude of the players. Attention switches to hurling for the next 3 weeks now.

 

The club wishes Seán Andrews all the best with his injury, suffered early on in the game. It appeared to be a displcated finger and he was removed to hospital. All the best Sean and we hope to see you back playing very soon.

 

Panel: J. Coleman, S. Darcy, C. O’Flaherty, A. McSweeney, H. Andrews, S. Andrews, M. Foy, D. Carroll, P. Dorney, M. Sisk, N. O’Sullivan. E. O’Flynn, J. O’Leary, F. Herlihy, D. O’Brien, A. MAye, T. Sheehan, A. Brady, D. Howard. 

 

 

 

 

U12 FL V Whitechurch – 30/4

 

 

 

 

 

                               Week Ended – Sunday May 22nd, 2016

 

MHL V Laochra Og – 2/5

 

Shamrocks 5-20, Laochra Óg 1-4

 

No report available

 

 

U12 FL V Castlelyons – 6/5

 

Shamrocks 6-4, Caslelyons 3-3
Shamrocks good run continued tonight in Shanbally. The players were well up for this game from the off and held the upper hand for most of the half. They went a point down against the run of play but their reaction was exemplary. They hit 3 goals and one point before half time to lead by 4-1 to 1- 2 at the break. A number of substitutions were made coming up to half time and also at half time to facilitate all the players who turned up.

U14 FL V Crosshaven – 17/6

 

Crosshaven 3-9, Shamrocks 1-11

 

The u14 footballers of Shamrocks and Crosshaven served up a cracking game of ball in Camden on Friday evening before the home side came out on top after a topsy turvy game. Both teams lead at different stages but the one that counts is the 60th minute.

 

Shamrocks played with the wind in the first half and led 1-8 to 2-3 at half time (the Shamrocks goal from Adam Maye). The forwards were in great form but the backs were under pressure and conceded those two goals that kept Crosshaven right in the game.

 

Crosshaven went ahead in the second half but Shamrocks battled hard but a host of chances went abegging – a combination of legs in the way, wides, some great defending from Crosshaven and some outstanding goalkeeping from the Crosshaven keeper kept Shamrocks from scoring that all important goal they needed. Meanwhile, when Crosshaven attacked at the other end, they did damage and invaribly scored.

 

It was a courageous performance from Shamrocks especially in the second half but they can be proud of their part they played in a high class game of football. 

 

Team: D. O’Brien, F. Herlihy, C. O’Flaherty, P. Dorney, A. McSweeney, D. Carroll, M. Sisk, S. Darcu, S. Andrews, T. Sheehan, A. Maye, H. Andrews. Subs used – D. Howard, J. O’Leary.

 

 

JAHC V Kinsale – 17/6

 

 

 

John Kerins Memorial Tournament – 18/6

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Week Ended – Sunday July 3rd, 2016

 

U14 HL V Crosshaven – 21/6

 

Shamrocks 7-13, Crosshaven 3-4

 

A comfortable win for the u14 hurlers on Tuesday evening against Crosshaven. This was their first win of the season at hurling but it had been coming as the lads were keen, enthusiastic and have definately been improving.

 

After Crosshaven scored an early goal, Shamrocks settled down and the two Andrews boys Harry and Seán were in good form, and soon had 2-5 on the board. Mark Sisk was having a great battle at midfield with the Crosshaven midfielder and also got on he scoresheet. Shamrocks went in at HT leading 4-9 to 1-1.

 

The full panel of 16 players that togged off were rotated throughout the second half and everyone made a valuable contribution on what was Shamrocks best hurling display of the year. Some players played in new and different positions and not a word of complaint and it was great to see the attitude of the players. Well done to them all and also a big thanks to our support on the line who cheered on every score and play. Hurling training on Saturday morning at 11.15am.

 

Panel: M. Foy, F. Herlihy, C. O’Flaherty, P. Dorney, A. McSweeney, A. Brady, M. Sisk, T. Sheehan, S. Andrews, A. Maye, H. Andrews, D. O’Brien, E. O’Flynn, F. Hayes, R. Barrett, D. Howard.

 

 

 

U12 HL V Castlelyons – 23/6

 

Shamrocks 1-5, Castlelyons 1-5

 

A fair result in the end as both teams finished level in Shanbally on Thursday evening. Shamrocks had 16 young players togged off for this one and all got game time as the squad was rotated throughout.

 

Castlelyons started the brighter and went 1-3 ahead playing with the wind. It looked bad for Shamrocks at that point but they settled down somewhat and managed to battle back to score 1-1 before HT to leave 2 point between the teams at HT.

 

Again, Castlelyons started the brigher and opened up a 4 point lead, 1-5 to 1-1 mid way through the second half. However, they werent to score again and the Shamrocks players were determined to get something from the game. They scored two great points from from play through Dara McCormick and Aiden Brady and then two Eoin O’Flynn frees went over and the game finished level. Well done to all the players and to the parents for their invaluable support. The lads are making progress and its important that they keep practising at home all the time.

 

Panel: S. Foy, N. O’Sullivan, M. Foy, E. O’Flynn, R. Barrett, D. Howard, F. Herlihy, A. Brady, K. Maye, E. Clarke, C. Lynch, B. O’Mahony, A. Clarke, D. McCormick, F. Hayes, C. O’Donovan.

 

 

 

U8 Hurling Blitz – 25/6

 

Shamrocks travelled to St. Michael’s grounds in Mahon on Saturday last for a U8 Hurling Blitz.

 

U12 HL V Aghada – 27/6

 

Aghada 4-2, Shamrocks 0-2

 

 

 

U14 HL V Lee Gaels – 29/6

 

Shamrocks 4-11, Lee Gaels 3-7

 

A second win in a row for the u14 hurlers as they beat Lee Gaels in Dripsey by 7 points. The teams were fairly well matched but on this occasion Shamrocks had that bit more hurling than the home team and were able to get scores at the vital times.

 

Lee Gales scored a goal from the throw-in but Shamrocks tapped over a few points from Harry Andrews and Mark Sisk. Things were fairly even up until midway through the first half when Seán Andrews burst through for two well taken goals. Harry Andrews also got in on the act and at half time Shamrocks were reasonably comfortable, leading 3-6 to 1-4 and playing well all over the field.

 

Lee Gaels rejigged their team for the second half and came right back at Shamrocks. Having seen a 9 point lead reduced to a 3 point lead mid way through the second half, the lads were in trouble but this was as close as Gaels got. Michael Foy in goal got some vital touches to dangerous shots and the full backline of Cian O’Flaherty and Fionn Herlihy put their bodies on the line on a few occasions. Mark Sisk will wake up sore once again in the morning after having a great battle with their excellent and physically strong centre forward.

 

Harry Andrews was on form from frees, Adam McSweeney who was simply everywhere scored two great points from midfield and Seán Andrews burst through with 7 minutes left to goal for his hatrick to give Shamrocks the cushion  they needed to see out the game.

 

Once again, it was a great team effort from all over the field. The half backs of Philip Dorney and Eoin O’Flynn cleared some ball in the second half. The half forwards of Adam Maye and Tim Sheehan won good ball and drew fouls at times which resulted in pointed frees. And Derry Howard from the u12’s played his first full u14 match and kept the ball moving and is improving with every outing. Shamrocks were short players tonight so every belt could have been costly but the players just got up and got on with it. Well done. Thanks also to the great travelling support as well.

 

 

 

JAHC V Tracton – 1/7

 

Shamrocks 0-16, Tracton 1-11

 

Shamrocks are back in the championship proper after this gutsy win over Tracton on Friday evening in Carrigaline. The stakes were high for Shamrocks as they would have been out of the championship if they had lost. But they responded to a late Tracton surge to battle to a deserved 2 point win.

 

Shamrocks played against a strong breeze in the first half and turned in their best display of the year. They were never lead and had opened up a 0-7 to 0-2 lead after 20 minutes and they were playing with real intensity and spirit. Andrew O’Grady was on form from frees, Chris O’NEill scored a point from midfield, Stephen O’Neill put one over from an acute angle and their tails were up. Tracton punished some fouls from Shamrocks just before halftime with a brace and that left it 0-8 to 0-6 for Shamrocks at HT.

 

The second half was a real battle. Cormac Scriven in the Shamrocks goal made a brilliant full lenght diving save from a Tracton penalty at 0-9 to 0-6 and soon after Shamrocks went 0-10 to 0-6 up. From here on until the final few minutes. Shamrocks found scores much harder to come by and Tracton started to win all the puckouts. Shamrocks had drifted out of the game and the Tracton free taker was punishing any Shamrocks fouls. Midway through the second half they had drawn level and after Shamrocks had gone a point ahead through Stevie O’Neill, Tracton pounced for a great goal at the other end and suddenly they were 3 points up with 10 minutes left.

 

This is where Shamrocks stood up and were counted and refused to panic. The two Scrivens were on the scoresheet (keeper Cormac with his second long ranger) and Andrew O’Grady put over a free after Tom Langton and sub Darragh O’Sullivan combined to engineer a close in free. The game drifted into injury time and the next score was going to be vital. Shamrocks won vital possession around the middle and Stephen O’Neill set up Darragh O’Sullivan who was foulded again 30 yards out from the posts. Shamrocks up a point via O’Grady. Then Grady himself won a free way out on the wing and squeezed that one over and soon after ref Michael Harrington blew the full time whistle.

 

Shamrocks played their best hurling of the year on Friday night and will no doubt improve from this performance. They really got stuck in and displayed an appetite for hard work and regurarly crowded out the Tracton man in possession. The work rate was high and every man can take a bow on a job well done, they ran themselves into the ground. No news as yet as to when or who they play next but they can relax for a few days now and enjoy this one!

 

Team: C. Scriven, S. Andrews, C. Kidney, J. Browne, M. Hitchmough, S. Collins, B. Mulqueen, T. Langton, C. O’Neill, A. Boland, A. O’Grady, A. McCarthy, S. O’Neill, D. Scriven, D. Andrews. Sub used – D. O’Sullivan.

 

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U10 HL V Ballinhassig – 2/7

 

Ballinhassig 4-2, Shamrocks 3-3

 

This league is a 10 a side is pilot project by Rebel Óg and both teams played their first game of the season on Saturday in Shanbally. There was plenty of excellent hurling on offer on both sides in this three periods of 15 minutes games. Ballinhassig won by 2 points on the day but the 15 Shamrocks lads hurled their hearts out and for most of them, this was their first ever competitive Gaelic Games match. Well done to all players, to the youthful managers on the Shamrocks sideline, to Mark Hitchmough who reffed the game excellently and to the supporters who were present on the line.

 

Team: Sam Foy, Barry O Mahony, kieran May, David Taggert, Cathal O Donovan, Nigel O Sullivan/Kearney, David Herlihy,  Cian Lynch, Shane O Mahony, Harry O Leary, Cormac Brady, Diarmuid Cahill, Zach Coughlan, Donal Herlihy, Evan Twomey 

 

 

 

U14 HL V Whitescross – 3/7

 

Whitescross 8-8, Shamrocks 5-13

 

A very high scoring game of hurling went Whitescross’ way on a beautiful Sundfay monring for hurling. The old adage that goals wins games rang true here as though Shamrocks got more socres than the visitors, the 8 goals conceded proved the losing of the game.

 

Shamrocks were 1-1 up early on, then 2-2 to 1-1 up soon after. Sean and Harry Andrews along with Mark Sisk were doing all the Shamrocks scoring. Then Whitescross went on a goal scoring spree and led at HT 5-4 to 2-6. Shamrocks had work to do.

 

The high number of scores didnt stop there. Whitescross got through for another 2 goals and they led by 10 points with 15 minutes left. Shamrocks refused to give up and with Seán Andrews causing havoc at full forward, they clawed it back to 3 points but time ran out in the end. An admirable effort at a comeback all the same. The lads are on a break now till late July/early August. Dont forget to keep practising at home/on holiday even!

 

Team: M. Foy, F. Herlihy, C. O’Flaherty, P. Dorney, M. Sisk, E. O’Flynn, A. McSweeney, T. Sheehan, S. Andrews, A, Maye, H. Andrews, D. Howard. Sub used – R. Barrett

                                                                                                                                                           

 

Week Ended – Sunday July 24th, 2016

 

Club Ciarán 2016

 

Club Ciarán got off to a great start on Monday morning where, despite the drizzle, everyone was enthusiastic and ready for action . We had 90 boys and girls this year which is an excellent turnout and is very managable. We had 15 coaches and helpers, many from our u21 and minor teams who have been coached up to the required level. We also had Clara O’Grady and Aisling to help out from the Girls side.Club Coaching Officer Pa Andrews was in charge of coordinating all the coaches and overseeing all the action on the field. Everything so far has gone smoothly and the sausages and sandwiches provided at break time for the coaches didnt last too long! Thanks to Deirdre for doing the kitchen all morning.

 

The two John Twomeys were on duty and they have put in a massive shift along with Deirdre Twomey who really have done all the donkey work behind the scenes over the past 2 weeks getting everyone organised. Kieran Lynam was on helmet and hurley duty and Donal Turner and John Jordan were on equipment duty.

 

The Club will continue for the week and we hope that the FUN continues.

 

 

U16 HC V St Vincents – 4/7

 

St Vincents 8-18, Shamrocks 7-10

 

Take no notice of the 11 point winning margin here. St Vincents and Shamrocks could barely be seperated for 72 minutes of this amazing game that went into extra time, but unfortunately for Shamrocks, Vincents finished the stronger in the last 8 minutes to score a flattering 11 point win and move into the next round.

 

This was an incredible game of championship hurling played in St Vincents on Monday evening and you’ll go a long way to find a more exciting game all year with all players on both sides being 100% committed and displaying all the skill that hurling has to offer. To summarise – Shamrocks played with the very strong wind in the first half but found themsleves 2 goals down to one of the tournament favourites after 1 minute. Oh no we thought, here we go. But Shamrocks settled down and took over and started to run at the Vincents defence. They replied with 1-6 (Sam Geary goal and Cillian Hayes frees and from play) and all of a sudden they were in a game. Shane Downey burst through for the first of his incredible 4-1 from play and Shamrocks went 10 points up with 5 minutes to HT. Vincents brough it back to a 6 point game at HT and Shamrocks knew that they faced a mountain to climb facing the breeze and a fired up Vincents in the second half.

 

Downey ran through for a goal to put Shamrocks 9 up. Basically, the final 25 minutes was a rearguard action to try and get themselves over the line. With Evan Seymour performing heroics in goal, Shamrocks kept them at bay but could do nothing about their points. Vincents chipped away and had it down to 5 points with 10 left, 4 points with 6 left, 3 points with 3 left, 2 point entering injury time, 1 point 1 minute into injury time and with the final puck of the match, they drew it up, Shamrocks 6-7, Vincents 5-12. Back to square one and into ET; the drama continued.

 

Shamrocks played with the aid of the strong breeze in the first part of ET and in reality, being level at HT in ET cost them. Going by the wind, they needed to be at least 2 scores ahead at this point. They just couldnt score enough to give them the cushion they needed. With no subs, the legs were hanging at this point. Sure enough, 2 minutes into the second period, Vincents scored 1-2 to move ahead for the first time since the start of normal time. Shamrocks responded, attacked and went up the middle but a goalmouth scramble was cleared, the ball was driven downfield where Shamrocks were short at the back and the killer blow was driven home into Seymours net. That was it, the heads and legs were gone, Vincents added another goal in the final 80th minute to run out totally flattering 11 point winners.  However, the best of luck to them in the next round.

 

It was rough justice on the Shamrocks lads who played themselves to a standstill and matched Vincents all the way until the very end. They were a credit to the jersey and there is no doubt that that there are fine hurlers on this team – they need attention on teh hurling side of things and also need to practice at home themselves. They can look forward to their few remaining league games with confidence after this display.

 

Team: E. Seymour, C. Murphy, M. Sisk, J. Sisk, D. O’Mahony, D. O’Flaherty, C. Hayes, S. Browne, S. Downey, D. Allen, S. Andrews, S. Geary, L. O’Driscoll.

 

 

JAFL V Ballinhassig – 6/7

 

 

 

 

MCHL V Donoughmore – 8/7

 

Shamrocks 3-17, Donoughmore 0-7

 

Shamrocks first game back after the exams was a comfortable outing against the visitors to Shanbally on a wet Friday evening. Shamrocks were in total command from the first whistle to the last and eased to victory while putting up a nice score considering the conditions. They led 1-10 to 0-2 at HT and the second half was of a similar vein.

 

The lads play Lee Gaels on July 20th in the hurling championship.

 

 

Club Ciarán 2016

 

 

 

 

 

U10 FL V Passage – 12/7

 

Shamrocks 4-3, Passage 3-2

 

No report available

 

 

 

JAHL V Ballinhassig – 13/7

 

Ballinhassig 4-14, Shamrocks 5-9

 

A high scoring game went Ballinhassig’s way in Shanbally on Wednesday evening. The teams were evenly matched for most of the game but Ballinhassig scored 1-4 without reply coming down the stretch and just about deserved the win.

 

Shamrocks played with a strong breeze in the first half and would have been disappointed to be only drawing 2-6 to 2-6 at half time – they needed a lead considering the wind. Ballinhassig led early on but Shamrocks slowly began to get on the scoreboard, in particular Fergus O’Neill who scored 2 great goals from play and Stephen O’Neill with 2 points from play along with Barry Mulqueen and Andrew O’Grady points.

 

Shamrocks battled hard throughout the second half after making a few switches and led until 5 minutes from the end when Ballinhasig struck for that quickfire 1-4. O’Gradys long range free went all the way to the Ballinhassig net in the last minute but it wasnt enough and the referee blew up soon after.

 

Overall, a decent display against an experienced Ballinhassig 3rd team who were well able to hurl and used their big men to their considerable advantage. Shamrocks can take a lot from its and have another few weeks to get things right before championship.

 

Team: C. Scriven, D. Barry, S. Andrews, C. Kidney, D. O’Neill, S. Collins, M. Hitchmough, J. Tuohy, B. Mulqueen, A. O’Grady, F. O’Neill, T. Langton, S. O’Neill, B. Sweeney, D. O’Sullivan. Sub used – C. Hayes

 

U10 HL V Passage – 19/7

 

Shamrocks 7-5, Passage 2-1

 

The u10’s scored a double over Passage on Tuesday evening with a deserved win in Passage in the hurling league, to follow up the football win the week before. Shamrocks had 15 players togged for this 10 a side game and everyone got plenty of game time. Shamrocks led all the way through and stretched away at the end. Well done to all the players, mentors and parents for their support.

 

 

 

JAHL V Kinsale – 21/7

 

Shamrocks 1-10, Kinsale 1-7

 

On a wet and soggy evening in Kinsale, after the fog had cleared and the referee had blown his full time whistle, it emerged that Shamrocks had won this league game by 3 points. They also captured the Jack Barrett Cup which is played for every year between these two clubs.

 

Shamrocks were full value for this win and actually should have won by more; however, they couldnt convert they’re possession into more scores,. Kinsale just wouldnt go away and stuck to their task gamely to leave the result in doubt until the end.

 

Shamrocks started brighter in the lashing rain and some nice points from Andrew O’Grady, Brian Sweeney and Alan McCarthy had them leading by 0-4 to 0-1 after 15 minutes. They were playing the better hurling and might have had a few goals as well but the shots were saved by the Kinsale keeper. Kinsale finished the stronger and at HT, the score was 6 points apiece.

 

Again, Shamrocks took over and went into a 1-8 to 0-6 lead midway through the second half after Brian Sweeney set up Darragh O’Sullivan who scooped the ball home on the run. Shamrocks were in total command here but they couldnt finish off Kinsale who got a goal late on to bring it back to a 2 point game, 1-8 to 1-6. However, despite a late Kinsale point, Shamrocks got 2 vital points themselves, both superb scores from play from Andrew O’Grady and Cathal Kidney

 

Team: C. Scriven, S. Andrews, S. Collins, J. Tuohy, D. O’Neill, B. Mulqueen, J. Browne, A. O’Grady, C. O’Neill, A. Boland, D. Andrews, A. McCarthy, D. O’Sullivan, B. Sweeney, M. Hitchmough. Sub used – C. Kidney.

 

                                                                                                                                                         

 

Week Ended – Sunday August 14th, 2016

 

MCHC V Lee Gaels – 26/7

 

Shamrocks 3-15, Lee Gaels 1-18

 

Shamrocks are into the semi finals of the C championship after a hard fought win over a gallant Lee Gaels on Tuesday evening in Shanbally. The high scoring contest was in doubt right up to the final whistle.

 

Shamrocks played against the strong breeze in the first half and did well to be only a point down at HT, Lee Gaels 1-11, Shamrocks 2-7. Lee Gaels were proving more than a match for Shamrocks and in their inside full forward, they had a potential match winner. They isolated him inside and nearly every ball that went into him resulted in a score for Gaels. Shamrocks werent able to mark him or cut off his supply. Gaels were 0-6 to 0-2 ahead midway through the first half but Shamrocks came right back into it 0-7 to 0-7 after they knuckled down. However, the ever dangerous Gaels full forward waltzed through for a goal and their cushion was restored. Shamrocks replied through a great goal of their own to tie it up approaching HT but Lee Gaels struck over further points to go three points ahead again. Shamrocks struck for goal number two approcahing Ht but Gaels scored their eleventh point of the half to lead by a point at HT.

 

Shamrocks turned to play with the wind in the second half but took a long time to wear down the Lee Gaels challenge. In fact, with 15 minutes left, it looked like Gaels might hang on as they went 3 points ahead and Shamrocks were struggling for scores up top. However, one or two positional switches worded and after the teams traded points, Shamrocks got that all important goal to level it up and soon followed up with another couple of pointed frees to lead for the first time since the first few minutes. They hung on until the end and the final whistle was greeted with relief all around. They play Kinsale in the semi final on August 24th.

 

Team: C. Scriven, C. Murphy, D. Barry, D. O’Mahony, J. O’Keeffe, C. Hayes, A. O’Grady, S. Flavin, D. Andrews, S. Downey, C. Hayes, D. O’Sullivan.

 

U10 FL V Tracton – 2/8

 

On the 2nd of August on what was a fine evening for football our under 10’s traveled to Minane Bridge to play a strong Tracton team in the U10 league. Both clubs have big numbers at this age bracket (we had 17 togged out) and the sides lined out 11 a side rather than the usual 9 a side.

 

Shamrocks took the lead early with a couple of well taken goals and were winning good ball in the middle of the field and full forward line. Tracton fought back and put some scores on the board and when half time came there was only a goal between the sides. However the second half was all Shamrocks and the lads got on top in every position. Some great goal scoring from the lads ensured the game was over as a contest well before the final whistle was blown.

 

It was great to see some of our lads get their first score for the club and you can be sure that this will boost their confidence for future matches. This is our under 10’s third win on the trot and with matches to come against Kinsale(Hurling) and Sliabh Rua (football) we hope this run continues. We’re very lucky to have such superb players in our club at this age bracket and you can see that the new league format and regular matches has brought them all on. A big thanks to the parents and grandparents who came out in force again to support our boys. Thanks also to Sean Kidney and Cormac Scriven who stepped in to help mentor the lads.

 

MCFC V St Vincents – 3/8

 

Shamrocks 6-9, St Vincents 0-12

 

Shamrocks were made to work in the second half by St Vincents second team but they pulled away to win comfortably in the quarter final of the football championship on Wednesday evening,

 

Shamrocks played with the very srong breeze in the first half and got on the scoreboard early with a few points and a goal. They led 1-5 to 0-0 before St Vincents got their first score 15 minutes in. Shamrocks had plenty of possession but didn’t add too much to their tally, eventually going in ahead at HT leading by 2-7 to 0-2.

 

One would have thought that was way too much for Vincents but they rallied after the break and scored some great points and had Shamrocks worried a bit. They brought the scoreline back to 2-8 to 0-8 but Shamrocks scored 2-1 in a quick two minute spell midway through the second half and that was it as a contest. They added on another 2 goals while Vincents added a few points to round out the hours football. Shamrocks now move on to play in the semi final at the end of August.

 

Team: C. Corkery, Chris Hayes, J. O’Keeffe, D. Barry, D. Andrews, R. Meighan,  A. O’Grady, Cillian Hayes, S. Downey, S. Flavin, K. Murphy, D. O’Sullivan. Subs used – D. O’Mahony, C. Murphy, Nikita.

 

 

JAHC Semi Final V Courcey Rovers – 6/8

 

Courcey Rovers 0-22, Shamrocks 1-11

 

Shamrocks were knocked out of the championship at the semi final stage after a polished performance from Courcey Rovers (second team) in Ballygarvan on Saturday night. Courcey Rovers were simply better than Shamrocks throughout the hour and apart from a couple of 5 minute spells when Shamrocks did most of their scoring, they were full value for the win.

 

Shamrocks shot 16 wides in total, 10 in the first half and crucially 8 in the first 11 minutes when playing with the wind. This obviously didn’t help their cause early in the game when a good start was needed. At the other end, Courcey Rovers were far more economical and were ahead 0-6 to 0-2 midway through the fistr half. They had stretched it to 0-8 to 0-3 thereafter but Shamrocks kept at it and their fine play was rewarded with 3 points in the lead up to halftime to leave the score 0-9 to 0-7 in favour of Courcey Rovers. Andrew O’Grady, Stephen O’Neill, Barry Mulqueen (brilliant in the first half at centre back) and David Andrews were among the Shamrocks scorers and they were well in the game at HT, especially as their halfback line in particular was on top and hurling a world of ball into the forwards.

 

Whatever happened, Courcey Rovers took over after the restart and scored 4 fast points in 4 minutes between the 7th and 11th minutes of the second half to stretch ahead 0-16 to 0-9. They were in total control now but with 14 minutes left and with multiple positional switches made, Stephen O’Neill scored a Shamrocks goal to bring the deficit back down to 4 points, 0-16 to 1-9. However this was as close as Shamrocks got; Courcey Rovers simply went up the field and started to score for fun all over again and put the game to bed inside 5 minutes with another 5 quick points. The game petered out from there until the end and there endeth Shamrocks hurling championship season which was two defeats and one win overall.

 

Panel – C. Scriven, J. Tuohy, C. O’Neill, J. Browne, S. Andrews, B. Mulqueen, S. Collins, F. O’Neill, D. Andrews, A. Boland, T. Langton, D. Scriven, S. O’Neill, B. Sweeney, A. O’Grady, A. McCarthy, M. Hitchmough, C. Kidney, D. O’Sullivan, S. Kidney, D. O’Neill.

 

U16 HL V Grenagh – 7/8

 

Grenagh 8-14, Shamrocks 9-7

 

A defeat for the Shamrocks lads in the league on Sunday morning in a high scoring game. It was 10 a side as Grenagh only had 10 and it was tiring conditions for all players who ran themselves to a standstill over the hour and as one can imagine, it was a very open game.

 

The HT score was Grenagh 3-6, Shamrocks 4-4 and Grenagh played better hurling into the strong breeze and scored enough. Well done to all players.

 

Team: E. Seymour, J. Sisk, C. Murphy, D. O’Flaherty, D. O’Mahony, C. Hayes, M. Sisk, S. Downey, L. O’Driscoll, H. Andrews, Nikita, D. Allen.

 

 

U14 FL V Aghada – 8/8

 

Aghada 10-7, Shamrocks 4-16

 

They say goals win games and one look at the scoreline will prove that – Shamrocks scored 20 times at home to Aghada and that would normally be enough to win any game of football but this is 12 a side u14 football where systems dont come into it and unfortunately for Shamrocks on this occasion, the concession of 10 of them proved their undoing in this very exciting game.

 

Shamrocks elected to play with the stong breeze in the first half but Aghada scored two of those tgoals in the first minute and had three by the 8th minute. However, Shamrocks settled down and started to patiently play their way back into it and scored 2 goals and scored some lovely points to bring themselves right back into it at HT, Aghada 3-3, Shamrocks 2-6. They just couldnt convert the majority of possession into enough scores and in fairness, Aghada defended well at times. A lot of hard work ahead in the second half then.

 

Again,  a terrible start stymied Shamrocks, conceding 1-2 within a few minutes of the restart. It was a tall task but once again the lads responded. They got a goal back from Shane Darcy and added on some great points and eventhough Aghada scored another goal to go two points up, Shamrocks worked the ball through the hands into Seán Andrews who buried it to the Aghada net and Shamrocks were a point ahead and looking good with 10 minutes left. However, the game turned when Aghada scored a goal below and the house of cards fell in – they scored another 3 goals in the last 5 minutes despite more points from Sean Andrews when a goal really was what was needed.

 

Panel: D. O’Brien, D. Gregson, M. Foy, D. Carroll, A. McSweeney, A. Brady, M. Sisk, S. Darcy, S. Andrews, A. Maye, H. Andrews, C. O’Flaherty, D. Howard, R. Barrett.

 

 

U16 FL V Lee Gaels – 9/8

 

Shamrocks 4-12, Lee Gaels 3-8

 

Shamrocks got their football season back on track with a deserved win over Lee Gaels in the league in Shanbally. Shamrocks are looking to qualify for the semi final so were after the two league points and did enough on the night.

 

Shamrocks had 18 players togged and what was most pleasing to see was each and every one getting plenty of game time. Shamrocks were full value for the win and it was more convincing than the scoreline suggests.

 

Panel: E. Seymour, D. O’Mahony, C. Murphy, S. Browne, N. Zigunov, J. Sisk, C. Hayes, S. Downey, D. O’Flaherty, S. Geary, B. Hughes, L. O’Driscoll, J. O’Callaghan, M. Sisk, D. Allen, P. McGrath, S. Darcy

 

 

U10 HL V Kinsale – 13/8

 

Shamrocks 7-5, Kinsale 2-1

 

Shamrocks hosted Kinsale3 in the latest league game and ran out deserved winners. They had 11 players togged on the day and played some lovely hurling. They led at all stages throughout the game and featured some great displayes and scores. Our thanks to all the players and supporters who turned up. It was pleasing to see a Shamrocks team managed by three of our u21 and minor stars – Mark Hitchmough, Andrew O’Grady and Seán Kidney who was also on top form with the whistle.

 

Team on the day: S. Foy, D. Cahill, K. May, N. O’Sullivan, Z. Coughlan, C. Gregson, D. McCormick, H. O’Leary, C. Lynch, J. Bartlett

 

                                                                                                                                                             

 

Week Ended – Sunday August 28th, 2016

 

U16 FL V Lisgoold – 16/8

 

Shamrocks 7-13, Lisgoold 6-1

 

No report available

 

 

U12 FL V Kinsale – 17/8

Shamrocks 3-5, Kinsale 1-4

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MCHC Semi Final V Kinsale – 20/8

 

Shamrocks 1-12, Kinsale 0-12

Shamrocks are into the East Board C grade final after this 3 point win over Kinsale in Minane Bridge on Saturday last. Shamrocks can count themselves very lucky to be in the final because for three quarters of this game, Kinsale were the better team and everything seemed to be going wrong for the fancied Shamrocks team. But the team seemed to step up a gear when the finishing line was in sight and rattled over 5 points in a row in the last 10 minutes to seal the win.

 

The very strong wind tried its best to spoil this game but it blew right across the pitch, negating any advantage for either side. Kinsale were up bigtime for this game and raced into a 0-7 to 0-2 lead after 20 minutes. They were doing all the hurling and Shamrocks were not hurling with any authority at all at this point. The lads body language said it all and its to their credit that they battled out of this funk over the course of the next 45 minutes. They managed to score a great goal 10 minutes before HT and this seemed to lift them a bit but at HT, Shamrocks had a mountain to climb such was the lethargy of the first half display. Kinsale led by 2 at HT.

 

The second half was mostly Kinsale playing the better hurling for the 20 minutes after HT. Shamrocks bought the lead back to a point, Kinsale stretched it to 4, back to 2 and out to 3 with 12 minutes to go, 0-12 to 1-6. However, Shamrocks managed to get reserves of strenght from somewhere and took over and tipped away at the lead, eventually equalising with 4 minutes to go. They carried that momentum forward and struck 3 more points as time ran out and they were into a final, which is scheduled for September 3rd.

 

Team: C. Scriven, D. Barry, D. O’Mahony, C. Hayes, J. O’Keeffe, R. Meighan, D. Andrews, S. Flavin, M. Hitchmough, S. Downey, A. O’Grady, C. Hayes. Sub used – C. Murphy

 

U12 FL V Lee Gaels – 20/8

 

Lee Gaels 3-2, Shamrocks 1-3

 

 

 

 

U8 Football Blitz – 20/8

 

 

 

 

 

U21 BHC Semi Final V Ballygarvan – 23/8

 

Shamrocks 2-11, Ballygarvan 0-17

 

We salute all the players and substitutes, they wanted only one thing and that was victory for the green and white. On Wednesday evening next August 31st the two sides will contest the replay at Ballinhassig at 6.30pm.

 

 

U14 FC Quarter Final V St Catherines – 24/8

 

Shamrocks 7-13, St Catherines 3-8

 

Shamrocks are through to the semi final of the u14 C grade chamopionship after a fully deserved win over St Catherines on Wednesday evening last. This was their second time this year making the trip to Ballynoe and they made it a winning one on both occasions.

 

The real groundwork for this victory was laid in the first half as Shamrocks totally dominated and played some lovely football to open up a 4-7 to 0-4 lead apprioaching HT. The home side gave themselves some hope with 2-1 scored just as halftime approached. The score at the break was Shamrocks 4-7, St Catherines 2-5.

 

Shamrocks knuckled down in the second half and controlled matters. A couple of early scores settled them down and the subs made valuable contributions when introduced. All in all it was a solid team performance overall with patches of wonderful football played at times. Well done to all and to the parents/supporters who made the trip once again into East Cork and roared on the lads all through.

Team: D. O’Brien, D. Gregson, A. Brady, T. Sheehan, C. O’Flaherty, P. Dorney, M. Sisk, A. Maye, S. Andrews, S. Darcy, H. Andrews, E. O’Flynn. Subs used – F. Herlihy, M. Foy, J. Coleman, R. Barrett

 

 

U10 FL V Sliabh Rua – 24/8

 

Our under 10 footballers had another successful evening in the football league last Wednesday night in Shanbally against Sliabh Rua. This result leaves them unbeaten in the league and was their third football victory in a row. The Sliabh Rua lads had also been unbeaten up to this match and we had expected this game to be the toughest challenge we had faced so far.

 

The game started with our boys seeing most of the ball, but scores initially seemed to be hard to come by. Once the boys found their range the scores came thick and fast to leave Shamrocks with a commanding lead at half time. Sliabh Rua played with the advantage of the hill in the second half, but they failed to capitalize on it and they never really got the ball beyond our defense. Some more well taken scores ensured Shamrocks won comfortably in the end. Our Under 10’s will go on during the month of September to play both Kilbrittain and Kinsale in football. We’ll be hoping our good run continues.

 

U16 CFC V Cill na Martra – 27/8

 

Cill na Martra 6-21, Shamrocks 3-11

 

Just like they did at u14 level 2 years ago to this group, Cill na Martra ended Shamrocks interest in the football championship with this thoroughly convincing win over the hosts in Shanbally on Saturday evening. Cill na Martra just had too much football skill and scoring ability for the Shamrocks lads who once again tried hard all through but came up against a superior team on the day, a team who will be hard to beat in the C grade on this display.

 

Shamrocks played against the breeze in the first half and did most of their scoring in a 5 minute spell mid way through the half, scoring some nice points from Cillian Hayes, Shane Downey and Dylan O’Flaherty. However, either side of this Cill na Martra controlled the game and scored 1-6 before the Shamrocks burst and more importantly they also scored 2-1 in the lead up to halftime and those 3 goals gave them a nice cushion at HT, 3-7 to 0-4.

 

The second half was very high scoring from both sides but in reality, Cill na Martra were in total control all through. The closest Shamrocks came to them, even playing with the wind, was 10 points, 3-11 to 1-7. Cill na Martra scored their 5th goal shortly after, Shane Downey burst through for Shamrocks 2nd goal straight after but that really was as good as it got. Cill na Martra controlled the skies, especially on their own kickouts, fed their forwards and they were far too slick and strong for the Shamrocks backs. In fact, they put on a shooting clinic, scoring 3-14 against the wind and barely kicking a wide, if at all. Shamrocks at the other end tapped on a few consolation points and another goal from Downey but this game was over a long way out.

                                                                                                                                                    

 

Week Ended – Sunday September 11th, 2016

 

U14 CFC Semi Final – 29/8

 

Shamrocks 1-13, Lisgoold 2-9

 

A brilliant game of football went Shamrocks way on Monday night in Whitescross and as a result, they now find themselves in the final of the competition.

 

Lisgoold were very tough opponents and looked all set at HT as they led by 2-6 to 0-3 and were very dangerous especially in the forwards. They played with the hill and Shamrocks did well to be only that 9 points down at HT, 2-6 to 0-3.

 

Shamrocks needed a big performance in the second half and twn minutes in, there was still 9 points in it. However, Shamrocks were beginning to get on top and started to feed their forwards after some changes. They got a boost of a goal and tipped away at the points. Entering the last 5 minutes, the gap was down to 3 points, then 2, then 1 and finally Shamrocks equalised entering injury time. It was pulsating stuff now entering the final minute of injury time and Shamrocks broke up the field and scored the winning point from a free to send them into the final against St Vincents, a final which is fixed for September 10th. A great team performance and well done to all involved and to the large travelling support of parents and siblings.

 

Panel: D. O’Brien, D. Gregson, T. Sheehan, P. Dorney, A. McSweeney, C. O’Flaherty, M. Sisk, A. Maye, S. Andrews, S. Darcy, H. Andrews, E. O’Flynn, D. Carroll, F. Herlihy, J. Coleman, D. Howard, M. Foy, R. Barrett, A. Brady 

 

 

 

MCFC Semi V Tracton – 30/8

 

Tracton 3-8, Shamrocks 1-9

 

Shamrocks and Tracton met in the champinship semi final on Tuesday night and for the second year in a row, Shamrocks exited the championship at the Crosshaven venue. Shamrocks just didnt do enough on the night to earn the win and Tracton deserved to go through as they just about had a little bit more potency in the forward line and struck for 3 goals at important times.

 

Shamrocks opened with a point playing with the srtrong breeze but it was Tractons forwards who did more damage at the other end, scoring two goals after slicing open the Shamrocks defence on both occasions. Shamrocks were chasing the game thereafter but a lot of their play either broke down through mishandling or shots that were driven wide. The tally mounted in the first half but Shamrocks stayed in touch courtesy of a few frees and 2 nice scores from play. The halftime score was Tracton 2-3, Shamrocks 0-6 with a big half needed to turn things around.

 

Shamrocks tried very hard in the second half. They brought the defecit back to one point after HT with two fine points but once again, Tracton opened up the Shamrocks D and buried goal number 3 to open up a 4 point gap. Reset and start again. Shamrocks upped it once again and midway through the second half, they were rewarded with a penalty which was dispatched to the Tracton net to make it 3-4 to 1-8. Shamrocks really needed a goal from some other avenue but the Tracton backs were having none of it. Both teams swopped points before the end but Tracton were comfortable enough to see it out and earn a place in the final.

 

 

 

U21 HC Semi Final Replay V Ballygarvan – 31/8

 

Shamrocks 2-11, Ballygarvan 1-12

 

U14 FL Quarter Final V St Vincents – 3/9

 

St Vincents 1-18, Shamrocks 1-7

 

Shamrocks and St Vincents played for the right to reach the semi final of the league on Saturday afternoon in Knocknaheeny and it was the home side who fully deserved to move into next stage. They controlled the game from start to finish and in doing so, proved their status as extremely strong favourites to win the championship final encounter on September 17th.

 

Shamrocks played with the strong wind in the first half but St Vincents were the dominant team throughout. They were early on the scoreboard and racked up an impressive total of 0-11. Shamrocks were tyring hard but just couldnt get a foothold on the game. At HT, it was 0-11 to 0-2 for St Vincents.

 

Shamrocks were up against it in the second half but they played a lot better as a team. Unfortunately, the deficit was too much to overcome but the players applied themselves very well without ever threatening the St Vincents advantage.

 

Our thanks to all who travelled up to Vincents. Shamrocks play them next Thursday in a hurling semi final at 8pm (under lights) and in the championship final on Saturday September 17th. We’ll see plenty more of Vincents before the season is out

 

U21 BHC Final V Tracton – 4/9

 

Tracton 0-23, Shamrocks 1-16

 

Shamrocks and Tracton u21 hurlers had their own “First Sunday in September” on Sunday evening in the BHC final and it was Tracton who prevailed by 4 points. Considering the wet and greasy conditions, this was a great and high class game of hurling and Tracton showed that bit more experience towards the end to fight off the brave challenge from the Shamrocks team.

 

Tracton led for the entire match but there was only ever a few points in it. Tracton led 0-4 to 0-0 after five minutes and they looked like steamrolling Shamrocks. Shamrocks managed to get into the game somewhat and Andrew O’Grady was responsible for most of their scores from placed balls. Aongus Boland, Darragh Scriven and David Andrews were on the scoresheet for Shamrock as well in that first half. Tracton had opened up a 0-9 to 0-3 lead after fifteen minutes and that was the widest gap between the teams throughout the match. Shamrocks just hung in there up until halftime; they trailed 0-12 to 0-8 at the break with all to play for.

 

The teams were evenly matched in the second half. Importantly for them, every Shamrocks score was matched by a Tracton score at the other end. Twelve minutes into the second half, Shamrocks sub Tom Murphy pulled on a loose ball in the Tracton square and the ball ended up in the net. Tracton 0-13, Shamrocks 1-8. At this point it was game on and the two teams really went at it until the end – nut once again, Tracton kept Shamrocks at bay by two or three points at all times. Shamrocks got the deficit down to one point with eight minutes left after great points from Darragh Scriven and David Andrews and a few frees from O’Grady. However, Tracton weathered the storm and finished with three points to seal the victory.

Panel: Cormac Scriven, Seán Kidney, Joe O’Keeffe, Mark Hitchmough, Rory Meighan, David Barry, Oisin Boland, David Andrews, Andrew O’Grady, Coby O’Grady, Darragh Scriven, Shane Kelleher, Brendan Crowley, Christopher Hayes, Tom Murphy, Shane Flavin, James Lynam.

 

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U12 FL Semi Final V Whitechurch – 6/9

 

Whitechurch 7-5, Shamrocks 3-5

 

 

 

 

JAFC Semi Final V Ballymartle – 10/9

 

Shamrocks 2-7, Ballymartle 1-8

 

It will be a repeat of the 2015 final between Shamrocks and Ballinhassig after Shamrocks just about got the better of Ballymartle on Saturdfay night in Belgooly. This was a low scoring, bruising encounter and it was only with 7 minutes to go that Shamrocks went into the decisive lead. Shamrocks will know a repeat of this performance against the current holders will not do at all.

 

Ballymartle played with the strong breeze in half number 1 and opened the scoring. Shamrocks leveled and looked the better team playing against the breeze. They went a goal up 1-2 to 0-2 after 8 minutes and were in control. Ballymartle battled back into the game and approaching HT were 1-3 to 0-5 behind. With the second last kick of the half, they got a real boost when a free from way out the wing ended up in the Shamrocks net. 1-5 to 1-3 at halftime for Ballymartle.

 

Shamrocks played with the wind in half number 2 but took an age to get going. Ballymartle offered up serious resistance around the middle of the field in particular. The teams traded points every so often and the margin was one point with 7 minutes to go when Shamrocks capitalised on a Ballymartle slip in defence and scored a goal to not only put themsleves in front by two with time running out but to drag their perfornmance off the floor. Ballymartle brought it back to one but Shamrocks pushed it out to two again and the defence held on in the frantic last few minutes.

 

U14 CFC Final V St Vincents – 11/9

 

St Vincents 7-10, Shamrocks 4-5

 

The strong favourites St Vincents made no mistake over a gallant Shamrocks team in Passage on Sunday afternoon in the championship final. Shamrocks just cant seem to get the better of Vincents in 2016, this was their 4th out of 4 wins in a row over this Shamrocks team, two in football and wo in hurling. This was by far teh biggest clsh of teh two and looking at teh scoreline, one might be forgiven for thinking that it was one way traffic but it wasnt – the Shamrocks team were outstanding to a man and battled all day long in the muck, rain and wind and made Vincents battle for every inch of ground all day.

 

Drama before the game as the small goal posts were blown over by the very strong wind blowing right down the pitch. Luckily, nobody was on the field at the time but after much debate between the management of both teams, it was decied to go ahead with the game but to remove the small goals, play the full pitch and go from twelve a side to thirteen a side. It was the right thing to do and it had no effect on the outcome.

 

Shamrocks played with the wind early on and needed a big lead. They were straight into action on the scoreboard. The forwards were clicking nicely and started to score. Harry Andrews was on fire inside and he had 1-3 from play inside the first 10 minutes. Vincents broke away for a goal which was to keep them in it somewhat but Shamrocks controlled it there after and delivered some great scores, none more so than the 3rd goal which was a full pitch lenght move where the ball was worked through many pairs of hands before the ball was fed to the onrushing Sean Andrews who buried it high into the Vincents net. A superb team goal and Vincents were in trouble. This was 10 minutes before HT and Shamrocks led 3-5 to 1-0 with the big wind. However, the next 10 minutes proved to be the key part of the match as Vincents attacked, scored and proceded to win every Shamrocks kickout against the wind, setting up their inside forwards who bagged a priceless 2-4 in the lead up to haltime. All the hard work Shamrocks had done was blown away in the wind. HT they led by only a point, 3-5 to 3-4 with a mountain to climb.

 

Shamrocks held out and fought hard for the first 10 minutes against the wind and hill but the inevitable happened 10 minutes in. Vincents had gone ahead 3-7 to 3-5 at this point but the first goal was always going to be teh defining moment and once it came, the heads dropped a bit. Another soon followed and such was the struggle against the wind, that really was it with 15 minutes to go. Shamrocks emptied the bench and brought on all their subs, who all performed well for such a young age, Robert Barrett scored the only Shamrocks goal in the second half. St Vincents used the wind advantage to tag on more points and goals while the Shamrocks lads on duty never threw in the towel.

 

Overall, a fully deserved win for strong favourits St Vincents but Shamrocks gave them plenty to think about along the way. The Shamrocks players had a great run in the East championship with a very young team and things are certainly better at this end of the year than say seven months ago. This was the u14s 23rd match of the year. Well done to all the players on a great year so far and to the mentors Pa Andrews, Jed O’Flaherty, John Jordan and Catherine Sisk on communication. Thanks also to the parents and supporters who braved the elements to roar on the lads. The season is not over with at least 2 more games to go.

 

Panel: D. O’Brien, D. Gregson, T. Sheehan, P. Dorney, A. McSweeney, C. O’Flaherty, M. Sisk, S. Darcy, A. Maye, S. Andrews, D. Howard, H. Andrews, E. O’Flynn, F. Herlihy, A. Brady, M. Foy, J. Coleman, R. Barrett.

 

 

                                                                                                                                                    

 

Week Ended – Sunday September 25th, 2016

 

MCHC Final V Grenagh – 12/9

 

Shamrocks 3-8, Grenagh 0-10

 

Shamrocks are once again Minor Hurling champions of the Rebel Óg East C Grade after a tough and uncompromising hours hurling against never say die Grenagh in the darkness of Mayfield on Monday evening. This game was real championship hurling with 110% committment from all the playes and even the mentors and supporters up in the stand. It made for a very exciting and tense game with Shamrocks ability to get goals being the key to the victory.

 

Grenagh opened the scoring early on in the very wet conditions and it took Shamrocks a full 10 minutes to register their first score. The early part of the game was evenly matched but Shamrocks got a boost after 13 minutes when it was 0-1 apiece when they broke through, passed to the unmarked David O’Sullivan inside and he made no mistake to rattle the Grenagh net. This was what the game needed and it got both teams going. Grenagh kept fighting and scoring and got to within 2 points before Chris Hayes and O’Grady pointed to leave the halftime score Shamrocks 1-4, Grenagh 0-4.

 

The game restarted with light fading fast in the gloom. Grenagh went about their business and scored 2 early points and had the momentum behind them at this point. Shamrocks were hurling well out the field against stiff oppositon but the scores werent coming their way. Shane Downey entered the game after 5 minutes of the second half and he was to have a big influence on the game, throwing himself about and generally making a nuisance of himself for the Grenagh backs. 

 

And it was his goal after 13 minutes of the second half, after good work by Chris Hayes, that really sparked the Shamrocks resurgence. He scrambled home the sliotar to the Grenagh net and Shamrocks were leading 2-4 to 0-7. Grenagh pointed again but within 3 minutes, Chris Hayes, who had a superb game all through, billowed the Grenagh net once again and all of a sudden Shamrocks were in a comfortable position, leading 3-7 to 0-9. Hayes again pointed after a monster O’Grady brace and eventhough Grenagh pointed to make it a 7 point game, Grenagh came searching for a much needed goal but Shamrocks battled away, kept them out and took the spoils in the end. The noise generated by the Shamrocks crowd really drove the lads on in the second half in particular.

 

Both teams go forward to play in the County Section at a later date.

 

Panel: C. Scrievn, J. Lynam, D. Barry, R. Meighan, M. Hitchmough, J. O’Keeffe, A. O’Grady, S. Flavin, D. Andrews, C. Hayes, M. Fleming, D. O’Sullivan. Subs: S. Downey, C. Murphy, D. O’Mahony, D. Allen, C. Hayes (inj)

 

 

U10 HL V Lee Gaels – 16/9

 

Shamrocks traveled to play Lee Gaels in Inniscara on Friday evening for their last U10 hurling game of the year. This turned out to be a very entertaining game with both sides giving it their all. Lee Gaels opened the scoring with two quick fire goals that rattled the Shamrocks defense. Some quick adjustments were made and the lads soon settled down to play some excellent hurling. Some good points were scored from frees and also then just before the break we got two well deserved goals after some great pressure and build up play. This seem to settle us down and after the break we continued to play some lovely hurling. We ran out deserved winners in the end on a scoreline of 4-05 to 2-02.

 

Shamrocks had sixteen players on duty with another few missing which will give us great hope for the U12/U14 competitions in a few seasons time. Special thanks must go to the parents who were on the road at 5pm to ensure everyone got there on time. We finish our U10 season next Sunday 25th September at 10.30 am with a three team tournament in Kinsale against the home team and Kilbrittan. A full report of the U10 playing season will follow after them games

 

 

JAFC Final V Ballinhassig – 17/9

 

Shamrocks 0-9, Ballinhassig 0-8

 

Shamrocks are South East Junior A Football Champions for 2016 after a titanic struggle with last years champions Ballinhassig in Belgooly on Saturday night. Shamrocks were hanging on in the end in a low scoring contest as Ballinhassig pushed for the equaliser but the defence, who were magnificient as a unit, held out to claim Shamrocks first success at this level since 1994.

 

Shamrocks were never led in this game. Darragh O’Sullivan (0-5) opened the Shamrocks scoring inside 5 minutes from a free and soon after finished off a great team move to slot over from play. The inside Shamrocks full forward line were dangerous every time they got possession and soon after Cannice Caffrey pointed another flowing movement and Shamrocks were motoring well, 0-3 to 0-0. Ballinhassig started to gain a foothold around the middle and the Shamrocks backs came under pressure. Fergus O’Neill in the Shamrocks goal had to be alert to a few occasions and Ballinhassig started to open up the Shamrocks defence. They picked off some scores and went in at HT level 0-5 to 0-5 after another O’Sullivan free and a superb Caffrey point from play for Shamrocks. All to play for in the second half.

 

Shamrocks had the aid of the slight breeze in the second half. They switched around their forward line at the start of the second half with Joseph Shanahan going to full forward. He gave Shamrocks the start they needed after 3 minutes with a beautiful left footed inswinger after one of his mazy runs and Shamrocks were up and running. Belief started to creep in from there and Shamrocks opened up a significiant 3 point gap with 15 minutes to go after further points from O’Sullivan and Caffrey, 0-8 to 0-5.

 

At this point Shamrocks were in control but once again, Ballinhassig came forward in droves without ever threathening the Shamrocks goal. Possession was the name of the game in the second half with most of the play featuring multiple triangles of handpassing around the middle third. This suited Shamrocks no end. They drew a line at their own 45 yard line and made Ballinhassig work very hard to even get inside it. Some heroic defending kept them at bay. Ballinhassig brought it back to a one point game with 8 minutes left 0-9 to 0-8 and amazingly there were no other scores left in the game. Ballinhassig will rue their 14 wides and Shamrocks can count themselves lucky that they didnt have their shooting boots on but to be fair, most of those wides were under serious pressure from the outstanding Shamrocks backs.

 

Barry Mulqueen was the captain of the team. He accepted the trophy from the Rúnaí of the Board, Declan O’Neill. Pat Desmond, chairman, conscience of the occasion, asked Declan as a proud Shamrocks man to present the trophy to a fellow clubman. Barry was fulsome in his praise for the referee and his officials, the Belgooly pitch, the superb Ballinhassig team and mentors and the whole club of Shamrocks. This was a significiant statement as this truly was a whole club achievement after 22 years. Many people in the club have soldiered on without success at adult level for many’s the year and this was sweet payback time. The club absolutely needed a major trophy at adult level and now this will be celebrated for a good while.

 

For many players, this was a magical feeling. There is a cohort of them who have been trying without success to win a SE football medal for 10 years plus. Yesterday was special for them. Just to see the look on their faces at the end was magnificient. They had battled on and now they are champions! Well done to them and to the management on a great year.

 

Cathel Kidney was presented with the Man of the Match award after the game.

 

Panel – Fergus O’Neill, Michael Prout, Stephen Hurley, Cathal Kidney, Jason Browne, Chris O’Neill, Mark Hitchmough, Barry Mulqueen, Mark Jordan, Joseph Shanahan, Alan McCarthy, David Andrews, Cannice Caffrey, Philip Brady, Darragh O’Sulluivan. Subs used – David Hayes, Jonathan Tuohy, Stephen O’Neill. Subs not used – Robbie Harrington, Senan Andrews, Roy Twomey, Jack Wilson, Brian Sweeney, Criostóir Corkery, Seanán Collins, Darragh Scriven, Seán Kideny, Dave O’Neill.

 

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Juniors 2016

 

 

 

 

 

 

MFL Semi Final V Lee Gaels – 19/9

Shamrocks 5-13, Lee Gaels 2-8

 

Shamrocks minor footballers have qualified for a final after this drama filled win over Lee Gaels on Monday evening in Ballygarvan.

 

Shamrocks led by 3-9 to 0-1 at HT after a scintillating and dominating performance in the first half. It was one way traffic and it was a case of how much Shamrocks would win by. They scored early and often and enjoyed almost the entire possession of the ball.

 

The first 20 minutes of the second half were the polar opposite. Lee Gaels dominated and attacked at will. Shamrocks went out of the game totally and Gaels had their tails up. They brought the scoreline back to 3-9 to 2-6 with 13 minutes left but Shamrocks scored a badly needed goal on the break thereafter and that gave them a bit of a cushion to control the game until the end

 

Co MCHC Semi Final V St Patricks – 24/9

St Patricks 1-16, Shamrocks 3-5

 

 

 

 

Co JAFC Quarter Final V Brian Dillons – 25/9

 

Shamrocks 2-15, Brian Dillons 1-10

 

Shamrocks are into the semi final of the Co JAFC after a controlled and deserved win over Brian Dillons on Sunday evening in Ballygarvan. Shamrocvks were the better team all through and apart from a spell midway through the second half when Dillons threathened a comeback, they always looked the likely winners.

 

Both teams played with packed defences in the first half isolating players inside when the other team had possession. Shamrocks were better at penetrating this wall of Dillons defenders with precise passing both from the hand and foot. Brian Dillons led for the only time inside 5 minutes when their big midfielder caught a high ball into the 21 yard line and he pointed. The same midfielder was to move to full forward in the second half as Dillons went in search of goals. Shamrocks captain Barry Mulqueen responded to this point and Shamrocks were up and running. They kicked on and their inside line were winning plenty of possession and winning frees which Darragh O’Sullivan was popping over. Midway through the first half, Shamrocks led 0-5 to 0-3 playing down the Ballygarvan hill but against the breeze. Brian Dillons will rue some costly misses in that half as well as their shooting let them down at times. They also picked up 4 yellow cards which was to prove costly in the second half. Shamrocks continued to probe the Dillons defence and Mulqueen scored a magnificent point on 21 minutes from way out. Shamrocks took inspiration from this and into the game came David Andrews who scored a quickfire 1-1 to drive home the Shamrocks advantage, adding to Philip Bradys point from play. They led 1-8 to 0-4 at halftime and the belief was there that this game was winnable.

 

Shamrocks expected a fierce Dillons onslaught in the second period but in reality they were always in control. They opened up an 8 point advantage after points from Joe Shanahan and  Cannice Caffrey, 1-11 to 0-6. Brian Dillons, a big physical team, needed to score goals from 25 minutes out and managed to score a quickfire 1-1 of their own after 8 minutes of the second half to give themselves real hope, 1-11 to 1-7. However, the Shamrocks responce was magnificent as they scored 4 points from play through Brady, Shanahan and Caffrey. The forwards were playing well in the extra space afforded them and once again Shamrocks went 6 points up with 12 minutes to go, 1-13 to 1-7. Brian Dillons kept at it at the other end and gave the Shamrocks defenders some work to do but the work ethic and desire to win was superb. They did win a penalty but they blasted it over the bar. Soon afterwards onrushing sub Stephen O’Neill finished a soccer style sweeping move to the Dillons net after it was crossed in low by Caffrey and that was it. Joseph Shanahan scored a vital point after a great run and point another sub (all subs made contributions) Jonathan Tuohy put the icing on the cake with a great run and point of his own just before the end. Dillons got 2 late red cards.

 

This was a great team effort in fairness from everyone. The divisional win seems to have lifted the monkey off their back and they played without fear on Sunday – some of their play and movement was superb. They go on to play Cloyne in the County Semi Final.

 

Panel: F O’Neill, M. Prout, S. Hurley, Cathal Kidney, Jason Browne, D. Hayes, M. Hitchmough, B. Mulqueen, M. Jordan, J. Shanahan, A. McCarthy, D. Andrews, D. O’Sullivan, P. Brady, C. Caffrey. Subs used – J. Tuohy, S. Kidney, S. O’Neill, B. Sweeney, R. Harrington. Not used – J. Wilson, C. Corkery, D. Scriven, D. O’Neill.

                                                                                                                                                        

Week Ended – Sunday October 9th

 

JAFL V Valley Rovers – 1/10

 

Shamrocks 1-10, Valley Rovers 0-13

 

 

 

 

 

U10 HL Blitz – 1/10

 

The lads stepped up another grade on Saturday morning when we were pitted with Bride Rovers, Millstreet and the hosts, Whitechurch in the final u10 hurling matches of a great season.

 

The heavy pitch conditions and strong wind made it very difficult to play our usual high standard hurling. The first game against Whitechurch was very low scoring and it was the host team who prevailed at the end on a scoreline of 1-03 to 0-02. The next game had us up against a much bigger and physical Milstreet team. We found it very difficult to find our range. The lads to their credit kept going to the end and never gave up. We lost out on a scoreline of 3-04 to 1-03. We fielded some of our U8 players and all the players got plenty of game time.

 

We travel to Kilbrittan next Saturday for the last football matches of the season. As usual thanks again to the ever reliable parents for the transport provided. The panel on duty were Cathal O’Donovan, Harry O’Leary, Barry O’Mahony, Euan Clarke, Josh Bartlett, Sam Foy, Kieran Maye, Darragh McCormick, Zach Coughlan,D avid Taggart, Cian Lynch, Shane O’Mahony, Shane O’Flynn, Seamus O’Mahony, Luke Jordan.

 

 

U10 FL Blitz – 8/10

 

Shamrocks travelled to Kilbrittan to compete in the last U10 football matches for the season. They were drawn against Coursey Rovers in the first game and this proved to be a tough assignment. Courseys were a much bigger and physical team to us and this was the telling factor as they beat us by 5 points. All the panel played and accounted very well for themselves.

 

The 3rd & 4th place play off had us up against Sliabh Rua. This turned out to be a very evenly contest and only a kick of a ball separated the two teams in the end with Shamrocks winning on a scoreline of 1-09 to 2-03. The new format that was adapted by the board this year for the U10 hurling and football proved to be a great success.

 

Special thanks again to all the parents and guardians who without fail supported this group all season. Transport was provided by the parents. Great credit must also go to the group of players who will have a great future going forward if we can all stick together. The selection committee consisted of Andrew O Grady, Mark Hitchmough, Sean Kidney and Shane O Donovan. The time and effort they put in throughout the season is a credit to them. The club would like to thank them for this commitment.

 

 

Co JAFC Semi Final V Cloyne – 8/10

 

Shamrocks 2-13, Cloyne 2-6

 

Shamrocks have qualified for their first adult county final since 1933 after this fully deserved 7 point win over Cloyne in Carrigtwohill on a beautiful Saturday afternoon. Shamrocks controlled this game from start to finish and got their tactics and match-ups spot on, enabling them to control the tempo of the game, keep Cloyne at bay and then to play the ball and the game to their own strenghts.

 

Shamrocks were never behind and opened the scoring through the hardworking Joe Shanahan early on. They went ahead 0-2 to 0-0 soon after before Cloyne registered their first score. Shamrocks were playing with a plan and played some lovely football at times, using the open space of the huge pitch to their advantage. Cloyne won most of the kickouts in the first half through their greater physicality but Shamrocks never let that throw them and they kept feeding ball inside to the dangerous forwards after they patiently won it back. Cannice Caffrey kicked a couple of scores while Darragh O’Sullivan also got on the scoresheet. Shamrocks led 0-4 to 0-3 with 5 minutes to go to halftime.

 

This was the point in the game that Shamrocks put one leg in the final. They scored 2 goals in succession in the space of 2 minutes. First a Cloyne kickout was fielded by David Andrews who fed Joseph Shanahan who rattled the Cloyne net. 1-4 to 0-3. A minute later a high ball in wasnt dealt with by the Cloyne defence and Shanahan again fed the onrushing Darragh O’Sullivan who’s goalbound shot was deliberately blocked by a Cloyne leg. Penalty for Shamrocks – O’Sullivan dispatched it emphatically to follow up the earlier goal just before and Shamrocks were leading 2-4 to 0-3. Cloyne added a point to leave it 2-4 to 0-4 at halftime with Shamrocks firmly in the driving seat.

 

Shamrocks stretched their lead in the second half. They worked the ball into dangerous positions and all their scores, bar one, came from play. They went 2-8 to 0-6 ahead after further points from Shanahan, Philip Brady and David Andrews. Cloyne started to go for goals from this point but thE Shamrocks defence held firm. Shamrocks kept responding to Cloyne scores and at one point, with 11 minutes to go led by 11 points, 2-11 to 0-6 after further points from David Hayes, Shanahan and O’Sullivan. Cloyne got a goal back with 10 minutes left but Shamrocks tagged on a vital score straight away to keep themselves in charge. Cloyne did pepper the Shamrocks goal and were rewarded with a penalty for a non-existant footblock. The Rock Diarmuid O’Sullivan dispatched it to the net but it was way too late for them. Shamrocks played out the last few minutes to reach that elusive county final. A great team performance all round.

 

Shamrocks play the final against Gabriel Rangers on Sunday October 23rd in Páirc Ui Rinn at 2pm.

 

Team: F. O’Neill, M. Prout, S. Hurley, C. Kidney, M. Hitchmough, C. O’Neill, D. Hayes, B. Mulqueen, M. Jordan, J. Shanahan, A. McCarthy, D. Andrews, D. O’Sullivan, P. Brady, C. Caffrey. Subs used – A. O’Grady, S. O’Neill, J. Tuohy, B. Sweeney. Subs not used – S. Andrews, S. Kidney, R. Harrington, S. Collins, D. O’Neill, C. Corkery, J. Wilson.

 

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MCFL Final V Tracton – 9/10

 

Shamrocks 2-9, Tracton 0-11

 

What a weekend of football its been in the club. The juniors qualify for their first ever adult county final in 85 years on Saturday and not to be outdone, the minor footballers add the league title a day later after this hard fough win over Tracton in Shanbally on the Sunday. Tracton had beaten Shamrocks in the championship earlier in the year so the team knew that only a top class display would suffice here and thats what they did just about in the end.

 

The first half was close all the way with play swinging up and down the field throughout. Shamrocks opened up with the first two scores but Tracton fought hard and kept in touch up until HT, where the score stood at Shamrocks 0-6, Tracton 0-4. Shamrocks had to play without captain Mark Hitchmough who received a black card after 20 minutes but despite this blow, they knuckled down thereafter. Among the Shamrocks scorers in the first half were David Andrews, Andrew O’Grady who was on form on the frees and Cillian Hayes.

 

Shamrocks started the second half like they meant business and struck for 2-2 in a devastating 6 minute period. First a quickly taken free on the 50 yard line was worked through 4 pairs of hands to Shane Flavin at the edge of the square and his finished smartly to the Tracton net. O’Grady and David O’Sullivan had scored points either side of that goal and next to follow was a David Andrews goal after his strong run. With 20 minutes to go, Shamrocks were in a strong position, leading 2-8 to 0-4. However, Tracton were determined that this wasnt going to be their lot and they stormed right back into the game and totally controlled the last 20 minutes. Only for some superb shot stopping by Criostóir Corkery in the Shamrocks goal and some heroic blockdowns, it could have been a remarkable comeback. After Tracton brought the score back to 2-8 to 0-10, Shamrocks finally managed to get a much needed score through Cillian Hayes 3 minutes from the end to seal the win. A great team performance overall once again from everyone.

 

Liam Shanahan, Chairman of Rebel Óg East, presented the league trophy to Shamrocks captain Mark Hitchmough after the game.

 

Team: C. Corkery, D. Barry, J. O’Keeffe, S. Downey, M. Hitchmough, R. Meighan, A. O’Grady, D. Andrews, C. Hayes, S. Flavin, D. O’Flaherty, D. Allen. Subs used – C. Scriven, D. O’Sullivan, J. Lynam, D. O’Mahony

 

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Week Ended – Sunday October 29th

 

Co JAFC Final V Gabriel Rangers – 23/10

 

Gabriel Rangers 2-13, Shamrocks 2-7

 

Shamrocks wonderful run in the JAFC came to an end at the final hurdle as Gabriel Rangers made sure that West Cork won every single club championship available in Cork this with a fully deserved 6 point win over a Shamrocks team that were out gunned and out played for the most part but never gave up and played right to the final whistle. In reality, Gabriel Rangers were in total control of this game and only for 2 late consolation goals by Shamrocks in injury time, would have won by far more.

 

The strong easterly wind played a significiant part in this game. Shamrocks played with it in the first half and opened the scoring after 3 minutes through Cannice Caffrey. However, every score up to half time was hard worked as the dangerous Gabriels forwards opened up the Shamrocks defence with some slick passing and movement. Gabriels were the better team throughout that half as they dominated possession and led 0-9 to 0-7 having played against the strong breeze. Six different Shamrocks players scored in that high class first half when the game was at its most competitive. Such was the strenght of the wind, Gabriels went in at HT in the much stronger position.

 

Shamrocks needed a good start to the second half but the exact opposite happened. An early point for them was followed by a disaster of a short kick out to the Gabriels corner forward who fed the onrushing full forward and he slotted neatly past Fergus O’Neill. Game over 5 minutes into the second half, 1-10 to 0-7. Gabriels started played with style now and opened up more daylight with another 1-2 with 15 minutes left, 2-13 to 0-7. The scored 2-4 in 13 second half minutes just after the break to effectively end the tie as a contest.

 

Shamrocks were playing for pride at this stage and were in danger of not scoring in the second half. After both teams made 5 substitutions each, the last 15 minutes of normal time were scoreless. Shamrocks never gave up and scored 2 goals in 1 minute in injury time to leave a somewhat respectable score on the board. Andrew O’Grady and Alan McCarthy scored the goals.

 

While defeat was the order of the day, the club and especially the players and management can be extremely proud of their run this year. Its been a superb achievement to even win the divisional championship. Roll on next year already and thanks to everyone involved in this proud run. Best of luck to Gabriels in the Munster Championship. . 

 

Team: F. O’Neill, M. Prout, S. Hurley, C. Kidney, M. Hitchmough, C. O’Neill, D. Hayes, B. Mulqueen, M. Jordan, J. Shanahan, A. McCarthy, D. Andrews, C. Caffrey, P. Brady, D. O’Sullivan. Subs used – J. Browne, J. Tuohy, S. O’Neill, B .Sweeney, S. Andrews. Unused – S. Kidney, S. Collins, D. O’Neill, J. Wilson, C. Corkery, R. Twomey, D. Scriven.

 

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MHL Final V St Vincents – 29/10

 

Shamrocks 0-19, St Vincents 2-11

 

 

Week Ended – Sunday November 15th

 

JAFL Semi Final V Ballinhassig – 5/11

 
Shamrocks 2-9, Ballinhassig 0-11

 

Early November football and both Shamrocks and Ballinhassig served up an exciting and competitive game to decide who qualified for the league final. In the third meeting of the teams this year, Shamrocks came out on top by four points to qualify for the final against Valley Rovers.

 

Shamrocks started like a train and looked like they would wipe the floor with Ballinhassig as they opened up a 4 point lead inside the first 10  minutes, 0-4 to 0-0 after some points from Barry Mulqueen, Darragh Scriven and Cannice Caffrey. However, Ballinhassig turned the game right around in a six minute spell thereafter, moving ahead by 0-5 to 0-4. So it was game on at this point with both teams having dominated spells. Both sides exchanged points up to halftime to leave the blues leading 0-7 to 0-6. Shamrocks had work to do.

 

Shamrocks had a dream opening 8 minutes to the second half. They scored two quick goals through Darragh O’Sullivan and Cannice Caffrey to gave themselves a firm hold on proceedings. They led 2-6 to 0-7 at this point and Ballinhassig needed at least one goal to win this game. Ballinhassig brought the deficit back to 2-6 to 0-9 and 2-7 to 0-10 but couldn’t do enough to break the strong Shamrocks rearguard. Some inspired points from midfielder Mulqueen and Caffrey drove Shamrocks over the line in the last quarter. Final next Saturday afternoon.

 

Co MCFL Semi Final V Clyda Rovers – 6/11

 

Shamrocks 0-8, Clyda Rovers 3-12

 

Shamrocks football season came to an end on Sunday afternoon after this comprehensive defeat to Clyda Rovers in the Co League Semi Final. The visitors to Shanbally were a bit too good for the Shamrocks lads and were all good footballers with excellent decision making skills. They were a huge team and their physicality was evident throughout. Their tackling was unlike anything the Shamrocks players had ever encountered and they harried and hassled the Shamrocks players in possession all game long, resulting in multiple turnovers which they were able to convert into scores at the other end.

 

Clyda Rovers opened up a 0-4 to 0-1 lead early on and looked dangerous. Shamrocks couldnt win enough possession at midfield and only David Andrews and Dylan O’Flaherty carried any threat up front. Shamrocks managed to get the score back to 0-4 to 0-3 after 18 minutes but Clyda stretched away again with 2 quickfire points. The half time score was 0-8 to 0-5 in favour of the visitors, and despite Shamrocks having played against the slight breeze, the feeling was that they were lucky to be just 3 points behind at that juncture.

 

Shamrocks turned to play down the hill in the second half but it was Clyda who started much the better and added on 3 points to Shamrocks 1. Ten minutes into the second half, Clyda Rovers led 0-11 to 0-6. This is when their big powerful midfielder received his second yellow and Shamrocks had a man advantage. The door was opened for a comeback but unfortunately, it never materialised. The next 10 minutes of the game became very disjointed as 2 Shamrocks players needed lenghty treatement after being injured and this disrupted the team no doubt .The discipline on both sides also suffered and the rest of the game was a non event as Clyda Rovers ran in three goals, one from a penalty, to register a comfortable victory in the end. Thankfully, the 2 injured Shamrocks players are ok and are on the mend.

 

Panel: C. Corkery, D. Barry, C. Scriven, R. Meighan, M. Hitchmough, J. O’Keeffe, A. O’Grady, S. Downey, D. Andrews, Cillian Hayes, Chris Hayes, D. O’Flaherty, J. Lynam, D. O’Mahony, D. Allen.

 

Underage AGM Nov 2016

 

The juvenile club held its AGM in the Clubhouse to review 2016 and to plan ahead for 2017. The healthy attendance heard reports from the various outgoing officers. The officers elected for 2017 are as follows: Chairperson – John Twomey (Ringaskiddy), Vice – Hugh Foy, Secretary – Pa Andrews, Treasurer – Peter Crowley, Childrens Officer – Jacqui Scriven. The outgoing Treasurer and board delegate Paddy Andrews stepped down after more than 30 years of administrative service to Shamrocks. He was thanksd for his time and commitment over the years by the chairperson.

 

The various team mentors for 2017 were also dealt with on the night – most are filled with a few more to be confirmed.

                                                                                                                                                                    

 

Week Ended – Sunday November 27th

 

Co CHL Final V Kildorrery – 20/11

 

Kildorrery 5-14, Shamrocks 2-8

 

The curtain came down on the 2016 playing season with defeat for the minors to Kildorrery in the league final in Mayfield on Sunday last. Shamrocks can have few complaints on this one as Kildorrery were clearly the better team and had a very good forward line who caused problems all match through for the Shamrocks backs. Every time they attacked they threatened a goal and they wrapped up this game inside the first 15 minutes when they scored 4 goals to leave them ahead by 4-2 to 0-3. Shamrocks were battling hard but were reliant on Andrew O’Grady mainly from frees. Mark Hitchmough and David Andrews also got on the scorsheet for Shamrocks who trailed at HT by 4-5 to 0-6.

 

Shamrocks needed a fast start to the second half; however it was Kildorrery who scored 3 points on the trot assisted by the breeze now. Their number 15 was unstoppable and he accounted for most of their scores – Shamrocks couldnt get a handle on him at all. Matthew Fleming scored Shamrocks opening point of the second half and Andrew O’Grady scored goals from a penalty and a 21 yard free to put some respectability on the scoreboard. Meanwhile at the other end Kildorrery were keeping their scoring rate upand ran out comfortable winners.

 

Thanks to all the team and management for a great year and best of luck to the players moving on to adult hurling (and football) in the club.

 

Team: C. Scriven, R. Meighan, J. Lynam, J. O’Keeffe, M. Hitchmough, D. Barry, A. O’Grady, C. Hayes, D. Andrews, S. Flavin, M. Fleming, C. Hayes, C. Murphy, D. O’Mahony, D. Allen.

 

Shamrocks & Midleton salute the hurlers of 1916

 
One hundred years is a long time, but in the GAA the heroes of yesteryear even though it maybe a century ago will never be forgotten and so the Shamrock and Midleton Clubs came together to salute their 1916 teams that contested the Senior Hurling Final on that historical year in our nation’s history. The Senior Hurling final of 1916 was played in The Cork Athletic Grounds on Sunday October 16^th between Midleton and Shamrocks with the then County Board Secretary Tom Irwin the Referee. Midleton 4-0, Shamrocks 3-2.

 

The Shamrock Club hosted a function in Ringaskiddy where there was a large gathering drawn from the two Clubs. The Midleton group were led by their Chairman Mr. Liam Ryan and Shamrocks were led by their Chairman Mr. Pat McCarthy. It was an occasion enriched by wonderful people who were in attendance, many of whom had contributed greatly to their respective Clubs both on and off the field.

 

All Ireland medals were a plenty with John Fenton, Kevin Hennessey and Paddy Fitzgerald amassing a fine senior collection. Adrian O’Driscoll and Michael Prout from Shamrocks have a fine collection too including Minor Hurling, Intermediate Hurling and Junior Football.  

 

The occasion and the marking of the centenary year were recognised in a very special way by the Clubs. Both Clubs commissioned suitable momentos. The Shamrock Club Presented Silver Salvers suitably inscribed and mounted on Midleton Distillery Oak. The Midleton Club produced a remarkable framed citation acknowledging the final and some of its outstanding players and included a medal won a Shamrock player.   On behalf of the Midleton Club, their 1966 All Ireland medal Winner Paddy Fitzgerald accepted the Silver Salver from Shamrock Club Chairman Pat McCarthy. Jerh. Coveney, Senior Vice President accepted the memento on behalf of Shamrocks.

 

Then John Fenton then presented the framed Citation to John Twomey representing the Shamrock Club. This set the scene and allowed the large attendance to engage in the great spirit of the momentous occasion.

 

Two players who played in the 1916 final went on the play Senior Hurling with Cork and were members of the Team of 1919 that won the first All Ireland wearing the red jerseys.  They were Frank Kelleher of Shamrocks and Richard O’Gorman of Midleton. Three members of the Shamrock team Ned Frizelle, Tom Livesey and Frank Kelleher played on the Cork Junior Hurling team of 1916 and won All Ireland Medals. Jim Russell from Shamrocks went on to play Senior Hurling with Cork. Michael Cotter, who played at full back, played Senior Hurling with Cork in 1912. He was a member of a Cork Senior Hurling team that played Tipperary in the town of Mechlin in Belgium. This was an Exhibition Hurling game to mark the 1912 Congress of Celtic Nations. It was the first Cork team ever to travel abroad.  In 1923 many of the Shamrock players were still playing and they won the Beamish Shield and Senior Hurling League Final that year. The team was trained by the local Curate in Ringaskiddy, Rev. Fr. Tim Murphy.

 

The occasion was enhanced too by the presence of relatives of some of the team members. Mrs. Pat Howard’s father, Tom Livesey and Uncle Jim Russell were team members. Martin Murphy from The Kennel Boreen was there acknowledging his grandfather John Murphy who was the Club Chairman in 1916 and also one of the Club’s founding fathers of 1898. Terry Frizelle was well represented on the team by his father Ned and Uncle Bob. The Captain of the team was Ned Flynn from Shanbally and his cousin Pat Touhy was there to sing his praises. The Flynns were an old Gaelic family and Ned’s father refereed the Senior Hurling County final of 1890. The goalkeeper was Michael Cusack and he was represented by his niece Helen Prout, a Vice President of the Club and a former Treasurer. Her son Michael was in attendance too, surely one of the Clubs most distinguished players in recent times having played hurling and football with many Cork teams and won four All Ireland Medals, two in hurling and two in football. The Secretary of the Club in those days was Ned Lynch NT at Ringaskiddy School. The Treasurer was John Packie McSweeney a brother to Lena Mulcahy who was renowned over the years for treating injured players with her own lotions made from wild herbs. The past was truly filled with wonderful people whose spirit and enterprise provided firm foundations for the generations that followed.

 

Included in the gathering were Donal Brady, winner of a South-East Cork Hurling Medal in 1963, Denis Allen, a former Club Secretary, Pat O’Neill, another former Secretary and Club Trustee, Neally O’Mahony, one of the greatest players over to wear the Shamrock jersey, Anthony Ronayne, another legend of the past, Colin Brady, our current Hurling Team Manager, and David Nolan N.T. Shanbally NS and Manager of our Minor Teams, who have brought the Clubl much success in recent years. Also present was Elizabeth O’Grady (nee Andrews) whose family have been associated with our Club every year since its foundation in 1898. Her Grandfather and Grand Uncle, George and William won Junior County Medals with Shamrocks in 1908.

 

Good occasions and good nights never last long enough but the memories and exchanges generated on this historic and memorable evening will provide much for us all going forward. May all the mighty Hurlers of Midleton and Shamrocks who thrilled the crowds in The Cork Athletic Grounds in that October Sunday afternoon in 1916 rest peacefully in that great playing field in the sky.

 

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Week Ended – Saturday December 31st, 2016

 

Polar Plunge for the special Olympics

 

It was a great honour to be present today in the National Maritime College of Ireland to witness Shamrocks Gaa club taking part in the Polar plunge to raise funds for the Special Olympics. This consisted of diving into the sea survival pool under simulated windy conditions with a heavy swell.  The six brave lads represented the club with great pride.

 

A lot of other participants were present to witness the Shamrock lads start the ball rolling as they along with two girls from the Cork ladies football team were first to do the dive. Kieran Lynam overcame his fear of heights and created a massive splash with he jumped in after the two girls from the Cork ladies football team. He got a great round of applause. Dick and David Andrews were both showing off their six packs but the judges declared David the winner after his great dive and getting the spectators involved in the build up with his overhead hand clapping. Dick wanted to lodge an appeal but Kathleen told him to be a man and accept the result. Tony O Sullivan was worried about his tan. He was assured that it wouldn’t wash off that easy. He dived with great authority and confidence. He too got a great score from the judges. David O Neill took the honours as the best local. He represented Ringaskiddy with great pride. He took to the pool as if he was doing it all his life. He also impressed the judges. Last up was Noel Kavanagh representing the Construction industry. He was impressed with the Cork Ladies and tried to better them. The judges thought for a time but the ladies got the higher scores. Noel was not that happy as he put in some serious training for this.

 

The club would like to thank all of the lad’s and their families who were present to witness this great event. It was great to see the lads in their Shamrocks colours to represent the club with great pride and honour.

 

 

Christmas Draw 2016 Results

 

1. Niamh Buckley c|o Kenny Coveney – Classical Hamper
2. John Jordan – Classical Hamper
3. Ronan Cullinane c|o Novartis
4. Joe O’Driscoll
5. Irene Aherne
6. Brian Cullen c|o Barry Mulqueen
7. John Joe Flynn
8. Shane Broderick c|o Jason Bowne
9. Mary O’Sullivan
10. Hannah O’Keeffe
11. Eileen Twomey
12. Senan Andrews
13. Mairead O’Sullivan
14. Jonny Tuohy
15. Kieran Cummins c|o Kevin O’Grady
16. Catherine Ronayne
17. Ronan Murphy
18. Tommy Doc c|o Pat Cusack
19. Angela McCarthy c|o FBI
20. James Lynam
21. Seamus Barry
22. Fiona Hickey
23. Miriam Lynam
24. Martin Meaney c|o Cobh GAA
25. Tom Cooney
26. Barry O’Neill
27. Jim Ronayne
28. Ethel Aherne
29. Adrian Walsh c|o Jim Ronayne
30. Paul Walsh c|o Novartis
     
     

    The Club wishes to thank all the people who supported this Draw and contributed to its success. The Club is also very grateful to all the Ticket Sellers who have again performed magnificently. Thanks too to all the kind and generous sponsors of prizes