Castleisland District U-14 Final:
Ballymac 3-13 Desmonds 3-06.
A display of utter grit, determination and control by Ballymac saw them attain the District League U-14 title for the first time since 2007. It was a victory thoroughly deserved as each and every player played with an exuberance and commitment right throughout this lively affair and all stuck to the gameplan which worked so effectively from the very start. Having already gone under to Desmonds in the League encounter by 7 points earlier on in the season, this game served as a timely reminder to all that this U-14 side are made of stern stuff and so it proved in the final last Tuesday night. All players played to their full potential throughout with wingbacks Micheál Reidy and young Eddie Rogers playing the proverbial blinders. Max O Brien has been a revelation at centreback and he quickly grows into that position. Chris Leen pointed some long range efforts as did Jack O Shea and ever-dependable Aaron Dunne. Jerdie O Shea and Tomás O Connor also chipped in with scores at crucial times and this pair were always supported by livewires Chris Rogers, Cillian Brosnan and David Long. Ballymac began the stronger with pointed frees but Desmonds were never too far behind. However with 20 minutes gone on the clock, Jerdie O Shea was on hand to steer a rebound to the net to put Ballymac 7 points to the good. However, Desmond responded with a deflected goal before half-time to leave six in the difference. Ballymac with Garry Sheehy, Eoin Lyons, Kevin O Connor and Robert Dowd holding firm, Ballymac were able to stay in front until Desmonds scored two quick goals to leave the minimum between the sides. But, immediately, Jack O Shea’s long range effort deceived the Desmonds keeper and end up in the net to stretch Ballymacs lead to four. Morgan Quirke was introduced and he made an immediate impact, netting with 5 minutes remaining. Ballymac held out for a seven point victory and captain Chris Leen was jubilant as he received the trophy from Richie Cotter. An impressive performance by Ballymac and a fitting conclusion to a long and eventful 2011 season for the group. Team mentors Gene O Keeffe, Seamus Quirke and Paul Horan were full of praise for their charges and one can now look forward with confidence for the coming year. Well Done to all. Foireann; Garry Sheehy, Kevin O Connor, Eoin Lyons, Robert Dowd, Micheál Reidy, Max O Brien, Eddie Rogers, Aaron Dunne, Jack O Shea, David Long, Chris Leen, Chris Rogers, Jerdie O Shea, Tomás O Connor, Cillian Brosnan, Morgan Quirke, Paddy O Donnell, Brian O Connor, Micheál Hoare, Darragh Regan, Joseph Cassidy, Garry Horan, Keelan Brosnan, Daniel Goggin
Faoi 12
Both our U-12 squads were out against Desmonds last Wednesday in the first round of the Castleisland District League. Our “Blue” team came out on top against Desmonds with 5 points to spare with exceptional performances from Darragh Regan, Michael Hoare, Eoin O Malley, Barry Lyons and Keelan Brosnan. Barry Lyons netted in the second half to secure the points for Ballymac with Brian Lonergan, Tadhg Brick, Eddie Rogers, Kieran Coggin and Cathal Dunne all to the fore. Those to add to the overall display were Daire Keane and David Nolan Tighe. So, a very positive start to the campaign with further games these coming few Wednesday evenings. Our “Gold” team were also in action in Castleisland and despite a brave display went under by 8 points. A poor start to the game when conceding 3 goals inside the first 15 minutes meant that we were chasing the game for most parts. However, a much improved performance in the second half saw us outscore our opposition with great points from Joshua O Keeffe, Eoghan O Donnell, Liam O Malley and David Rogers. These scores kept Ballymac in the game until Desmonds scored a late goal to put some daylight between the teams. Ciaran Nolan Tighe, Cillian Gallagher, Liam O Brien and Eoghan Leahy played exceptionally well in defence as did Dylan Dunne Moriarty. Eoin Culloty pulled off some great saves in goal in the second half with James Carmody and David McCarthy assisting in general play. No doubt, things will improve as we proceed in the League with our next outing this Wed evening Sept 21st away to Brosna.
Faoi 10
The Castleisland District U-10 Blitz is due to take place this coming Saturday in Currow at 10 am. As final details have yet to be received we will contact team members re. further information via text before Saturday.
Mí-ádh Ballymac Coiste na nÓg wish to salute the Kerry team and management for their outstanding contribution to the GAA Championship this year. Each and every one of the set-up can hold their heads high after an impressive season. Unlucky to have come up short last Sunday but everybody is proud of this magnificent Kerry team. Fillfidh Sam an bhliain seo chugainn. Cinnte !!