Dublin Intermediate Hurling Championship Group Two: Kilmacud Crokes V Erin’s Isle – The Evening Herald – May 18 2019

Posted on June 18, 2019 by admin

NET GAINS SEE CROKES KEEP ISLES AT BAY

McIntyre’s sparkling hat-trick helps the Southsiders maintain their perfect record in IHC group combat

DUBLIN IHC

KILMACUD CROKES 4-18

ERIN’S ISLE 3-14

Daire Walsh

CIARAN MCINTYRE recorded a magnificent haul of 3-2 to give Kilmacud Crokes a convincing triumph over Erin’s Isle in Group 2 of the Dublin Intermediate Hurling Championship at Finglas last Wednesday.

As a result, the southsiders remain unbeaten in this year’s competition – having already overcome the challenges posed by Naomh Mearnog and St Sylvester’s. Isles enjoyed a whirlwind start to the group themselves, recording three consecutive victories in advance of last week’s meeting on Farnham Drive.

Yet, despite the best efforts of Fran Carroll (who also finished with a hat-trick of goals) and Graham Williams, they came up short on this occasion. Since they captured the Junior ‘A’ county title back in 2017, Isles have made steady progress up the club hurling ladder.

They currently ply their trade in AHL2 and with the nucleus of the same squad still involved two years on, the future appears bright for Brian McCabe’s men. Although the elements were against them during the first half, Conor Carney pointed inside the opening minute to get them up and running.

Nevertheless, with one-time Offaly footballer Brian Hanamy providing a direct target on the edge of the square, Crokes soon found their feet. After the imposing attacker restored parity, Andy Cullinane edged the visitors in front with an impressive point.

They were beginning to create space in behind the Isles full-back line and McIntyre fired past Derek McCabe for a fourth-minute goal. Additional scores followed through McIntyre and Cullinane (free), before a Carney ’65’ offered Isles a certain degree of respite.

Crokes carried their momentum forward into the second-quarter, however, Eamon Allen, Darren Quirke and Cullinane finding the target in quick succession. A second major inevitably arrived via Hanamy in the 19th minute, though Isles immediately fired back with a three-pointer of their own.

A quick free from midfielder Paul Versagi released Carroll on goal and he expertly struck beyond the reach of opposition netminder Joe Codd. This was the first sign of the danger Carroll could create and Williams added a brace of points to bolster the Isles’ tally.

In spite of this, Crokes largely remained in control of their own destiny. Paul Buckley, Cullinane (two), James O’Keefe and Quirke split the posts to propel them into a 2-12 to 1-4 interval buffer.

In their previous home encounter on April 6, Isles had seven points to spare (2-16 to 1-12) over St Sylvester’s. They struggled to replicate the form produced in that showing, but a powerful blitz on the resumption got them back within touching distance.

Darren Kelly’s superb point on the left-flank galvanised the hosts and half-time substitute Darren Hanlon made an instant impact off their next foray into enemy territory. Carroll continued to pose a threat and when another goal-scoring opportunity presented itself, he took it in typically assured fashion.

Whilst their stranglehold on the game wasn’t as firm as it had been, there was never any sense of panic within the Crokes ranks. Centre-back Ronan Walsh was in outstanding form throughout and proved to be a steady presence during a potentially sticky spell for his side.

Having significantly weathered this storm from Isles, Buckley, McIntyre and Jude Sweeney pointed to bring their cushion back up to nine. Quirke and Fergal Armstrong also found the range either side of the third-quarter mark, but Isles reduced the gap to six with just eight minutes remaining.

Thanks in no small part to a 0-3 salvo courtesy of Conor Berrigan (another interval replacement), Isles were presented with a fighting chance. Ultimately, McIntyre put paid to any prospect of a comeback by bagging goals in the 55th and 62nd minutes.

Carroll also shook the net in the final seconds, but it was Kilmacud who preserved their 100 per cent record at the end of a fast-paced affair.

MATCH FILE

Scorers – Kilmacud Crokes: C McIntyre 3-2, A Cullinane 0-5 (2f, 1 ’65’), B Hanamy 1-1, D Quirke 0-3, F Armstrong (1f), P Buckley 0-2 each, E Allen, J O’Keefe, J Sweeney 0-1 each. Erin’s Isle: F Carroll 3-0, C Berrigan (3f), G Williams 0-4 each, C Carney 0-3 (2 ’65’), D Hanlon 0-2, D Kelly 0-1.

KILMACUD CROKES: J Codd; M O’Dwyer, C Keyes, J Huban; C O’Dwyer, R Walsh, E Allen; A Cullinane, P Buckley; J O’Keefe, J Sweeney, D Quirke; C McIntyre, B Hanamy, F Armstrong.

Subs: G Veale for Sweeney (55), K Fullam for Allen (57), J Slattery for Buckley, J O’Dwyer for Armstrong (both 60).

ERIN’S ISLE: D McCabe; J Hyland, E Connaghan, E King; I Fitzpatrick, D Murray, T Fox; P Versagi, G Farrell; G Williams, M Donohoe, D Kelly; C Carney, S Darcy, F Carroll.

Subs: C Berrigan for Donohoe, D Hanlon for Darcy (both h-t), P Murray for Versagi (46).

MENTORS – Kilmacud Crokes: Gerry McGrath, Ciaran Sheeran, Billy Noctor. Erin’s Isle: Brian McCabe, Johnny Carey, Derek Keogh, Mel Farrell, John Gaffney.

Referee: Terry Carton (Naomh Fionnbarra).

WIDES – Kilmacud Crokes: 14 (4+10). Erin’s Isle: 6 (3+3).

CONDITIONS: Mostly dry with occasional spots of rain.

PLAYER OF THE MATCH: Ciaran McIntyre (Kilmacud Crokes).

Posted in Hurling | Comments Off on Dublin Intermediate Hurling Championship Group Two: Kilmacud Crokes V Erin’s Isle – The Evening Herald – May 18 2019

Dublin Adult Hurling League Division Two Round-Up (June 16): Dublingaa.ie – June 18 2019

Posted on June 18, 2019 by admin

ADULT HURLING LEAGUE DIVISION TWO ROUND-UP: JUNE 18

ADULT HURLING LEAGUE DIVISION TWO ROUND-UP: JUNE 18

By Daire Walsh

St Oliver Plunkett’s/Eoghan Ruadh saw off the challenge of St Sylvester’s at Broomfield on Sunday morning to make it five wins on the bounce in Division Two of the Adult Hurling League.

Since falling short to Faughs in the opening round of the competition on February 24, Derek Brennan’s side haven’t looked back. Erin’s Isle, Naomh Olaf, Naomh Fionnbarra and Thomas Davis have been accounted for in the intervening period and they were aiming to extend their promotion push when they travelled to Malahide for a round six meeting with Syls.

While Cian Boland was on inter-county duty for Dublin against Galway in Parnell Park on the previous evening, his brother Fionn’s outstanding midfield performance provided Plunkett’s with a strong platform. Paddy Curtin and Kieran Shannon largely held firm in defence, ably-assisted by dependable netminder Bill McCormack.

Though Sylvester’s ensured they were kept on their toes, Cillian Hayes and Liam Corbett offered the visitors a 2-9 to 1-9 interval buffer. This left matters delicately poised on the resumption, but the Plunkett’s firepower ultimately got them over the line in comprehensive fashion.

Hayes and Sean Clerkin finished with 1-2 apiece and it was the latter’s goal that placed the outcome beyond doubt in the closing moments. Courtesy of his 1-3 haul, Corbett marked himself out as the Plunkett’s scorer-in-chief.

McCormack also pointed a free inside his own half – an inspirational score on another memorable day for the Navan Road outfit. They will be back in action on Saturday week (June 29), when Raheny provide the opposition at Martin Savage Park.

They find themselves just behind Faughs on score difference – the Wellington Lane men having lost out to Erin’s Isle on their home patch. Despite being previously unbeaten with five wins from five, they were edged out at the end of an enthralling encounter at Tymon North.

Faughs had enjoyed a whirlwind start to the proceedings – racing into an early 1-2 to 0-0 lead. Greg Bennett offered a significant threat throughout for the hosts and was highly influential during the early exchanges.

Isles eventually weathered this storm, though – a brace of Paul Murray goals propelling them towards a one-point cushion at the break. After losing out to Kilmacud Crokes in the Intermediate Hurling Championship four days earlier, the Finglas side were determined to make a strong statement on their return to league duty.

Thanks to goals from Darren Hanlon and Fran Carroll when the action resumed, they found themselves within reach of a morale-boosting win. The away team were subsequently reined in by a late Faughs penalty, which looked set to give them a share of the spoils.

Yet, there was enough time for Isles to produce a winner – Carroll getting the all-important score in a 4-16 to 3-18 triumph. Whilst Carroll and Hanlon stood out in the Erin’s Isle attack, the defensive displays of Robyn Fitzpatrick and Thomas Fox also proved crucial.

There was also a first reversal of the campaign for O’Toole’s at Blunden Drive. They had a game in hand on their closest rivals after an opening round fixture with Naomh Olaf was postponed, but four successive wins kept them in the frame for an automatic return to the top-flight.

Naomh Barrog had other ideas, however, and boosted their own credentials in a 4-22 to 4-14 victory. Courtesy of their respective triumphs at the weekend, Naomh Olaf and Raheny safely occupy mid-table positions.

At Pairc Ui Bhriain, Naomh Olaf enjoyed a 2-19 to 1-19 win at the expense of Setanta. It was another high-scoring affair in St Anne’s Park, where Raheny had the measure of Thomas Davis (1-21 to 3-11).

Meanwhile, Scoil Ui Chonaill’s survival hopes received a massive boost at ‘The Bogies’. Despite having no wins from the opening five rounds of this year’s second-tier, they recorded a comprehensive 3-20 to 2-13 success over Naomh Fionnbarra.

As a result, they have now moved off the foot of the table, leapfrogging their opponents at the weekend.

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Dublin Adult Hurling League Division One Round-Up (June 16): Dublingaa.ie – June 18 2019

Posted on June 18, 2019 by admin

ADULT HURLING LEAGUE DIVISION ONE ROUND-UP – JUNE 18

ADULT HURLING LEAGUE DIVISION ONE ROUND-UP: JUNE 16

By Daire Walsh

Ballyboden St Enda’s continue to lead the way at the summit of the Adult Hurling League Division One table, after they recorded an emphatic victory over Crumlin at Pearse Park on Sunday morning.

This result means that either side of their meeting with Cuala on May 13 – which ended in a sharing of the spoils – the defending champions have registered three wins on the trot. They most recently edged past the challenges posed by Na Fianna and St Brigid’s, setting them up perfectly for the visit to their southside rivals.

Crumlin were searching for a first league triumph of 2019 and despite the absence of some key figures in the ‘Boden line-up, they fell to a 5-34 to 0-5 defeat. Joe Fortune’s men are currently two points clear of Cuala, who continue to have a game in hand on the pace-setters.

The Dalkey outfit remain firmly on the track for a title push, courtesy of their own 2-22 to 0-16 success at the expense of St Jude’s in Tymon North. Not far behind in third spot are Kilmacud Crokes, 3-16 to 1-14 winners over Lucan Sarsfields at Silver Park.

Whilst it was a difficult start to the campaign for the 2018 county finalists, their form has been imperious since they drew with Whitehall Colmcille in mid-May. They followed up that stalemate by getting the better of St Vincent’s and Ballinteer St John’s in narrow fashion and they convincingly made it four wins in seven against Lucan in the Leopardstown venue.

Following back-to-back reversals to St Jude’s and Kilmacud, Ballinteer returned to winning ways at Collins Avenue. They were made to work for the two points by a determined Whitehall Colmcille, however.

With Sean Gray in excellent form, the hosts led 0-9 to 0-8 during the interval. Nevertheless, there was no reason for John’s to panic and the influential Aodhan Clabby turned the tie in their favour on the resumption.

His outstanding haul of nine points proved crucial towards their eventual success, but Glenn Whelan, James Gilligan and Danny McCarthy were others to impress. They contributed 0-2 apiece for the Marlay Park side and it was McCarthy’s brace of sideline cuts that significantly galvanised Sean Lane’s charges.

Rob Aherne also added a score and even though Whitehall brought it right down to the wire, it was Ballinteer who ultimately prevailed (0-15 to 0-13).

Meanwhile, Craobh Chiarain occupy fourth place in the top-tier thanks to their deserved 3-18 to 0-14 triumph over Na Fianna at Clonshaugh. Cian Derwin, Conor Ryan and Paul Kelly finished with four points each to their name, while Gary Kelly, Eugene Farrell and Damian O’Reilly also stood out.

Yet, it was Chiarain’s ruthless goal-scoring streak that allowed them to build an insurmountable buffer against last year’s runners-up. James Finn, Ciaran McGouran and Francis Usanga all rattled the net to give them a third home win of the term.

It was a profitable day out in Abbotstown for St Vincent’s, who had eight points to spare over St Brigid’s (4-14 to 0-18). The Marino side have claimed two wins on the bounce and they remain in the top half of the league standings as a consequence.

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Dublin Adult Hurling League Division One: Cuala V St Jude’s – Dublingaa.ie – June 18 2019

Posted on June 18, 2019 by admin

CUALA MAINTAIN AHL DIVISION ONE CHALLENGE

ADULT HURLING LEAGUE DIVISION ONE

CUALA 2-22

ST JUDE’S 0-16

By Daire Walsh

Cuala kept up the chase on Adult Hurling League Division One pace-setters Ballyboden St Enda’s with an impressive 12-point triumph over St Jude’s at Tymon North on Sunday morning.

Facing into a marginal deficit at the break (0-10 to 0-9), Willie Maher’s side secured their fifth win of the campaign with a powerful second half display. On a day when no fewer than 10 Cuala players got their names on the scoresheet, the contributions of Naoise Waldron (1-7) and Tom Ryan (0-4) paved the way for the visitors to come out on the right side of the result.

As ever, Fionn O Riain Broin and Diarmuid McLoughlin were in fine form for St Jude’s. They amassed a combined tally of 0-11, though it wasn’t enough to prevent their fourth league reversal of 2019.

Despite being without a number of their first-choice team – some of whom were on inter-county duty for Dublin in Parnell Park on Saturday – Cuala entered this contest in high spirits. Before playing out an entertaining draw with Ballyboden St Enda’s at Bray Emmet’s on May 13, the Dalkey men had recorded three wins in succession.

They most recently produced a late flourish to get the better of Craobh Chiarain, ensuring they remained just two points adrift of ‘Boden – albeit with a game in hand. While it has been a mixed season to date for Jude’s, their stalemate against Lucan Sarsfields on May 29 was preceded by an impressive victory at the expense of Ballinteer St John’s.

The two sides had already met in the Senior ‘A Hurling Championship in mid-June, which ended in a 2-27 to 0-16 success for Cuala at Monastery Road. The two-time All-Ireland champions edged in front early on courtesy of a Conal Kelly point, before Jude’s immediately responded through Colm O’Callaghan.

McLoughlin was then on hand to swing the pendulum in the home team’s favour, only for Nicky Kenny to immediately cancel it out at the far end. Nevertheless, with Cuala proving to be somewhat wasteful during the opening-quarter, their Templeogue counterparts sought to take advantage.

After full-forwards O Riain Broin and Waldron traded points, Jude’s created some daylight with a mini scoring blitz. Supplementing an O Riain Broin brace, centre-forward Paul Maguire was also on target during a fruitful spell.

It was anticipated that Cuala would find their feet as the action wore on and by the 25th-minute mark, they had restored parity to the play. Following swapped efforts between Colum Sheanon and McLoughlin, Cuala triumvirate Tom Ryan (a late addition to the team in place of Colm Cronin), John Sheanon and Waldron fired over three points in as many minutes.

Jude’s replied with unanswered scores of their own from O’Callaghan, O Riain Broin and corner-back Ciaran Hogan, but wing-forwards Kenny and Ryan ensured Cuala ended the half in a positive frame of mind.

Even though the tie remained finely balanced, it was significantly turned on its head within seven minutes of the resumption. Straight from the throw-in, Colum Sheanon levelled matters for a sixth time.

They subsequently moved back into the ascendancy via the stick of Waldron and he fired beyond the reach of Ross O’Reilly for the maiden goal of the game on 34 minutes.

This was a major psychological boost for Cuala and they followed it up with another series of points – Ryan, Niall Carty and roving defender Simon Timlin all finding the range. Jude’s finally interrupted this scoring sequence through Hogan’s second long-distance free of the hour, but it only offered them a temporary respite.

Waldron (free), Carty and John Sheanon raised white flags to give Cuala a 1-17 to 0-11 cushion on the three-quarter mark. The dependable O Riain Broin split the posts off a 50 metre set-piece as Jude’s looked to keep their challenge alive.

However, when Cuala pounced for a second goal in the 47th-minute, it effectively placed the outcome beyond doubt. Substitute Emmet Murphy was making his presence felt in attack and he superbly found the net at an awkward angle to provide his side with an unassailable lead.

Whilst O Riain Broin briefly halted their charge with a two-point salvo, Ryan grabbed another single in advance of a similar haul for Waldron. To their credit, Jude’s continued to battle as the final whistle approached.

They were awarded a penalty on 58 minutes, which O Riain Broin drilled narrowly over the woodwork. Following back-to-back Cuala points for Waldron and Kelly, McLoughlin’s third of the day rounded off the scoring in this top-flight clash.

Jude’s will aim for a return to winning ways when they face Na Fianna at St Mobhi Road on Saturday week (June 29). On the same evening, Cuala welcome Kilmacud Crokes to Shankill.

Scorers – Cuala: Naoise Waldron 1-7 (0-2f, 0-1 ’65’), Tom Ryan 0-4, Emmet Murphy 1-0, John Sheanon Colum Sheanon, Nicky Kenny, Conal Kelly, Niall Carty 0-2 each, Simon Timlin 0-1. St Jude’s: Fionn O Riain Broin 0-8 (6f, 1 ’65’, 1 pen), Diarmuid McLoughlin 0-3, Ciaran Hogan (2f), Colm O’Callaghan 0-2 each, Paul Maguire 0-1.

CUALA: Cormac Spain; Simon Timlin, Ross Tierney, Michael Conroy; Oisin Gough, Diarmuid O’Flynn, John Sheanon; Cian Waldron, Cillian Sheanon; Tom Ryan, Colum Sheanon, Nicky Kenny; Conal Kelly, Naoise Waldron, Niall Carty. Subs: Emmet Murphy for Kenny (32), Kenny for Carty (51).

ST JUDE’S: Ross O’Reilly; Ciaran Hogan, Cillian Smyth, Kevin Treacy; Eoghan Grant, Mark Maguire, Alan O’Beirn; Dave Kiernan, Liam Hayes; Colm O’Callaghan, Paul Maguire, Conor Nolan; David O’Callaghan, Fionn O Riain Broin, Diarmuid McLoughlin. Subs: Mark Hannon for O’Callaghan (half-time), Conor O’Keeffe for Smyth (34), Michael Brislane for O’Callaghan (54).

Referee: Chris Mooney (St Patrick’s, Palmerstown).

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Rugby Column Number 157: The Kildare Nationalist – June 11 2019

Posted on June 12, 2019 by admin

RUGBY

Mixed emotions for Irish U20s

By Daire Walsh

IT proved to be a week of mixed emotions for Ireland at the World Rugby U20 Championship in Santa Fe, Argentina.

Following the high of an opening day victory against arch rivals England on Tuesday, they suffered defeat to Australia in their second game of Pool B on Saturday. This makes tomorrow’s clash with Italy in the southern hemisphere a must-win for Noel McNamara’s side – if they are to progress to the last-four of the tournament.

Because it is only the three pool winners and the best runner-up that make it into the semi-finals, Ireland will most likely need to rely on results elsewhere before their placing is determined. When they completed a magnificent Grand Slam triumph in the spring, Athy’s Martin Moloney was a key figure in the Irish pack.

He was initially named in the squad for the World Championships, before injury unfortunately ruled him out of contention. He was joined on the treatment table by Leinster quartet Harry Byrne, David Hawkshaw, Brian Deeny and Scott Penny, as well as Munster’s Conor Phillips.

This led to a host of new combinations in the starting line-up for their pool opener and with England seeking revenge for their Six Nations defeat in Cork, it was always likely to be a stern test of Ireland’s mental resolve. They were placed under intense pressure during the early exchanges – England racing 10 points clear with a mere nine minutes gone on the clock.

However, Jake Flannery’s seven-point salvo subsequently got Ireland back on track. While a penalty from Saracens fly-half Manu Vunipola (cousin of club-mates Billy and Mako) gave England breathing space, Flannery converted a Stewart Moore try to give Ireland a 14-13 interval cushion.

This raised the stakes considerably and the contest continued to ebb and flow in the third-quarter. David McCann grabbed a brace of five-pointers in this period as Ireland once again turned the tables on England to lead 28-26.

When England’s replacement hooker Alfie Barbeary was red-carded on 66 minutes, it effectively opened the floodgates in the Argentinean city. Munster duo Ben Healy and John Hodnett crossed over to steer Ireland towards a deserved 42-26 success.

They had a short turnaround for the challenge of Australia, who recently halted New Zealand’s stranglehold on the Oceania Championship. There was Irish interest in both camps for this game with Louth native Michael McDonald named at scrum-half for the Junior Wallabies.

McDonald made the move Down Under at the age of 13 and is forging a strong reputation at this grade for Australia. Despite having Ryan Baird sent-off just 20 minutes into the game, Ireland led 17-10 on the hour mark.

Craig Casey and Moore dotted down for the Green Army, while Flannery and Healy were accurate off the kicking tee. It went awry for Ireland in the closing-quarter, though, as they leaked 35 unanswered points to their powerful opponents.

As things stand, Ireland are ranked sixth in the overall standings – just behind hosts Argentina.

Posted in Rugby Column | Comments Off on Rugby Column Number 157: The Kildare Nationalist – June 11 2019

Dublin Adult Football League Division Three: Good Counsel/Liffey Gaels V Parnell’s – The Evening Herald – June 11 2019

Posted on June 11, 2019 by admin

MIGHTY QUINN TO THE RESCUE

Alex’s stoppage-time equaliser keeps his side’s unbeaten record and denies plucky Parnell’s an away win

DUBLIN AFL3

GOOD COUNSEL/LIFFEY GAELS 0-11

PARNELL’S 0-11

Daire Walsh

THE outstanding Alex Quinn kicked a stoppage-time point at Galtymore Road on Saturday evening to earn Good Counsel/Liffey Gaels a share of the spoils with Parnell’s in Division Three of the Adult Football League.

When they developed a two-point cushion on the hour mark, Parnell’s looked set to squeeze through. This was the cue for a late flourish from Counsel, however, and Quinn fired over a brace to dramatically maintain his side’s unbeaten home record for 2019.

It had been a difficult build-up to the game for Parnell’s following the sad passing of club legend Mark O’Hanlon on Thursday morning. A key member of the club’s successful Dublin and Leinster SFC campaigns of 1987 and 1988, O’Hanlon also represented the Sky Blues at inter-county level.

In advance of the game, a minute’s silence was impeccably observed by both teams in his honour. This encounter also arrived on the weekend that Stephen Cluxton made an historic 100th championship appearance for Dublin.

He was marked absent for this trip to the southside and, in a tentative opening, the Coolock men fell behind to a fourth-minute Alex Quinn free. They quickly responded through Stephen Duffy at the opposite end, before Counsel edged themselves back in front.

ANGLE

After he added a second place-ball effort, Alex Quinn found the target at a tight angle. Parnell’s then lost corner-back Craig Nolan to injury on 12 minutes.

Alex Hutton made a telling impact off the bench and once they got to grips with the Counsel kick-out, the northsiders established a foothold in attack. Following a neat one-two with Darragh Joyce, Gary Collins curled a right-footed strike between the uprights.

He immediately added a long-distance point and the aforementioned Joyce converted a routine free to edged move Parnell’s into the ascendancy for the very first time. Despite seeing their lead slip away, Counsel restored parity with an Adam Skelly single.

Even though Parnell’s midfielder Andy Myler clipped a point to round off a fast-paced counter attack, Ben Quinn – twin brother of Alex – ventured forward from centre-back to do likewise for the hosts.

Nevertheless, it was Parnell’s who finished the opening period on a high. Mark Heron joined half-forward partner Collins on the scoresheet, giving the Chanel College outfit a slender 0-6 to 0-5 interval buffer.

While they were pegged back on the resumption by Barry O’Reilly, it didn’t take Parnell’s long to reinforce their position.

EXCELLENT

Myler was in excellent form throughout and registered his second point of the tie at a distance of 35 metres. Heron’s excellent individual score created some daylight, until Alex Quinn once again came up trumps for Counsel – sprinting past the retreating Joyce on his way to raising another white flag.

With just two points separating them in the table (Counsel holding a slight advantage), there was inevitable tension as the action progressed. Alex Quinn eventually levelled matters with a superb point off the outside of his left boot, but Parnell’s regained momentum with another mini-scoring blitz.

Capitalising on Collins’ terrific turnover in midfield, centre-forward Thomas Davis hit an impressive point on the run. A Hutton free had them within sight of a fifth league win, though the 58th-minute dismissal of Graham George did leave them hamstrung late on.

Traded points between O’Reilly and Heron kept Parnell’s in pole position, only for Counsel to persevere with their challenge. Ben Quinn was now operating in tandem with his sibling Alex and the latter’s 0-2 salvo raised the stakes in additional time.

There were opportunities to decide the contest at either end, but both camps were ultimately forced to be content with a draw. Next up for Good Counsel/Liffey Gaels is an away trip to O’Toole’s tomorrow week (June 19).

On the same evening, Parnell’s welcome Fingal Ravens to Chanel.

MATCH FILE

Scorers – Good Counsel/Liffey Gaels: A Quinn 0-7 (2f), B O’Reilly 0-2 (1f), B Quinn, A Skelly 0-1 each. Parnell’s: M Heron 0-3, A Myler, G Collins 0-2 each, D Joyce (f), A Hutton (f), T Davis, S Duffy 0-1 each.

GOOD COUNSEL/LIFFEY GAELS: J Murphy; D Charles, P McMahon, R Kelly; L Blood, B Quinn, P Mullin; V Ivers, C Dowling; A Skelly, R Ryder, D Keirns; A Quinn, D Blood, B O’Reilly.

Subs: D Doran for Dowling (48), S O’Kane for D Blood, M Noster for Keirns (both 53).

PARNELL’S: E Walsh; C Nolan, S McGrath, A Lee; G George, C McDonald, A Doyle; B McCarthy, A Myler; G Collins, T Davis, M Heron; S Duffy, D Joyce, J Sammon.

Subs: A Hutton for Nolan (12), C Hunt for Duffy (48).

MENTORS – Good Counsel/Liffey Gaels: Gavin Ruth, Derek Meehan, Johnny McGlynn, Thomas Smyth. Parnell’s: Jimmy McGrane, Ger Power, Paul Rigney.

Referee: Philip Carr (Round Tower Clondalkin).

WIDES – Good Counsel/Liffey Gaels: 8 (5+3). Parnell’s: 11 (6+5).

CONDITIONS: Bright and sunny throughout, but windy at times.

PLAYER OF THE MATCH: Alex Quinn (Good Counsel/Liffey Gaels).

Posted in Gaelic Football | Comments Off on Dublin Adult Football League Division Three: Good Counsel/Liffey Gaels V Parnell’s – The Evening Herald – June 11 2019

Dublin Adult Football League Division Two Round-Up (June 8): Dublingaa.ie – June 10 2019

Posted on June 10, 2019 by admin

ADULT FOOTBALL LEAGUE DIVISION 2: ROUND-UP

ADULT FOOTBALL LEAGUE DIVISION TWO ROUND-UP: JUNE 8

By Daire Walsh

St Sylvester’s maintained their perfect start to Division Two of the Adult Football League with a 1-18 to 0-13 victory against St Patrick’s, Palmerstown at Broomfield on Saturday evening.

Despite being without first-choice netminder Michael Shiel – who was on the substitutes’ bench for Dublin’s Leinster SFC semi-final success over Kildare at Croke Park on Sunday – they extended their winning run in the second-tier to all of eight games. Having suffered relegation from the top-flight in 2018, the Malahide outfit are on course for an automatic return.

Castleknock continue to breathe down their necks and courtesy of an accomplished 3-13 to 2-9 triumph over Round Tower Clondalkin at Somerton Park on the same night, they remain two points adrift of the pace-setters.

It wasn’t always plain sailing for Lar Norton’s side, who fell three points behind during the opening-quarter of an entertaining affair. Thomas Galvin converted a series of frees for the visitors, before Shane Boland (two) and Rory Corcoran ultimately responded in kind for Castleknock.

Gerard McDermottroe has been in sparkling form for ‘Knock in recent weeks and his 0-2 salvo helped them to edge into the ascendancy. Limerick native Seamus O’Carroll and the ever-influential Boland subsequently added points but just when they appeared to be in a commanding position, Towers served up a sucker punch.

Mark Hallows bagged the maiden goal of the tie and as a consequence, parity had been restored (1-5 to 0-8) just in time for the break. There was no need to Castleknock to panic just yet, though, and they claimed a three-pointer of their own when the action resumed.

After Kevin Stephenson had seen an earlier effort rebound off the woodwork, McDermottroe was ideally-placed to find the net at close-range. O’Carroll provided the assist for this score and then raised a green flag himself to boost Castleknock’s chances.

When midfielder Stephenson grabbed a third major on 52 minutes, it effectively determined the outcome of the contest. A spirited Towers added 1-2 without reply in the closing moments, but it wasn’t enough to deny an excellent Castleknock.

While O’Carroll (1-1), Stephenson (1-0), Boland (0-3) and Corcoran (0-2) all made telling contributions, it was McDermottroe’s final tally of 1-7 that truly ignited their challenge.

Just behind Castleknock on score difference are Naomh Mearnog, who recorded a nine-point win (1-18 to 0-12) over St Mary’s, Saggart at Portmarnock. Despite being against the breeze in the opening period, the combined forces of Oisin Taylor and Shane Carthy ensured Mearnog were 0-9 to 0-6 in front at the break.

They made full use of the elements on the resumption and with Taylor finding the net on the stroke of 50 minutes, they eventually cruised over the line. Taylor finished with 1-5 to his name, while Carthy (0-5), Michael Gibbs, Jamie Walsh (0-3 each) and Shane Kavanagh (0-2) also impressed.

Ballyboughal remain in the hunt for promotion after they had six points to spare (1-18 to 1-12) over Na Fianna ‘B’ on home soil. They are currently two points behind both Castleknock and Mearnog – with a game still in hand.

The foundations for Ballyboughal’s win were laid in the first-quarter, when they developed a four-point cushion. In spite of Na Fianna’s best efforts, they never relinquished their lead.

Complimenting the midfield dominance of Richie Downey and Cathal Flynn, Ben Callinan and Eoghan MacPhilipin shone in attack. David Downey was a steady presence between the sticks, while Jonathan Rooney and Cormac Flynn produced strong defensive showings.

Elsewhere, Clontarf made it five wins on the bounce at St Anne’s Park on Saturday. Inside the final-quarter, their meeting with Naomh Olaf remained firmly in the balance.

It was during this juncture that Kevin Lillis fired over three points without reply and this propelled ‘Tarf towards a 0-13 to 1-5 victory in the end.

Though their Senior One side are flying high in the top division, Kilmacud Crokes ‘B’ are also enjoying an encouraging campaign in AFL2. They already had four wins under their belt before welcoming Round Tower Lusk to Pairc De Burca and the Stillorgan men moved into sixth with a convincing 6-16 to 3-7 triumph.

It was also a good night at the office for Scoil Ui Chonaill, who were 2-18 to 2-6 winners at the expense of Naomh Fionnbarra on the Clontarf Road. Following an initially slow start, Scoil got themselves on track with points from Andy Bunyan and Louis Costello.

Despite coming under intense pressure at times, a Conor Dixon goal guided Scoil into a 1-7 to 1-4 half-time lead. Custodian Bunyan ventured forward after the break to add another brace of points and although Fionnbarra threatened a mini-revival, Scoil discovered an extra gear to pull away in the final-quarter.

After they finally came out on the right side of the result away to Na Fianna on May 26, Whitehall Colmcille once again emerged with the spoils against Raheny at Collins Avenue (6-16 to 0-11).

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Dublin Adult Football League Division One Round-Up (June 8): Dublingaa.ie – June 10 2019

Posted on June 10, 2019 by admin

ADULT FOOTBALL LEAGUE DIVISION ONE ROUND-UP

ADULT FOOTBALL LEAGUE DIVISION ONE ROUND-UP: JUNE 8 

By Daire Walsh 

Ballyboden St Enda’s restored their three-point lead at the summit of the Adult Football League Division One table with a comprehensive 6-20 to 0-9 victory over Ballinteer St John’s on Saturday evening.

Following the midweek successes for Kilmacud Crokes and St Jude’s – against Lucan Sarsfields and Cuala respectively – the gap at the top had been tightened. As the only unbeaten side remaining in the top-flight, ‘Boden were expected to prevail in their fourth home encounter of the campaign.

Nevertheless, the only points they had dropped thus far in 2019 was at Pairc Ui Murchu on March 3 – a 1-10 apiece draw with county champions Kilmacud. This minor slip-up allowed Ballinteer to make their own play for league supremacy and they topped the division at the end of round five with a 100% record.

They subsequently lost out to Jude’s and St Brigid’s, leaving the door open for ‘Boden to leap-frog them in the league standings. The hosts had recently put St Vincent’s to the sword in a 4-14 to 2-11 triumph at Pairc Naomh Uinsionn and they hit the ground running through Colm Basquel and Alan Flood points.

Donagh McCabe and former inter-county star Darragh Nelson also tagged on scores, before the ever-industrious Darren O’Reilly bagged the opening goal of the contest on 10 minutes. Despite the admirable resistance of John’s, ‘Boden continued to bolster their tally as the half developed.

Basquel, Flood and Sean Gibbons were all on target, while Mikey Dunne’s 1-2 salvo ensured they were 13 points clear (2-12 to 0-5) at the midway point in the action. A spirited Ballinteer responded with a brace of fine scores on the resumption, only for ‘Boden to once again reinforce their superiority.

After Aran Waters had split the posts in consummate fashion, O’Reilly was released by the impressive Basquel for his second goal of the night. Indeed, thanks to excellent build-up play from Gibbons, the 2016 All-Ireland club winner completed his hat-trick for a rampant Ballyboden.

O’Reilly then turned supplier for Basquel and even though Ballinteer rallied with two points in succession, ‘Boden rounded off a near-perfect performance with a sixth goal courtesy of substitute Malachy Codd.

Whilst O’Reilly proved to be their scorer-in-chief, he was ably-assisted throughout by Basquel (1-6), Dunne (1-3) and Flood (0-3).

At St Mobhi Road, Na Fianna got the better of Naomh Maur (2-18 to 3-8) to edged ahead of Ballinteer into fourth place. Ballymun Kickhams moved to within touching distance of a play-off spot when they squeezed past the challenge of Vincent’s at Pairc Ciceam on Thursday – 0-14 to 0-13 the final score.

Meanwhile, Skerries Harps climbed up to 11th with a dramatic 1-9 to 0-10 win at the expense of St Brigid’s at Russell Park. Following back-to-back reversals against Fingallians and Jude’s, Skerries were seeking a return to winning ways.

Playing with the aid of a strong breeze during the first half, Stephen Smith registered three points for the visitors. Although Philly Ryan matched this haul for Brigid’s, Skerries brought a 0-7 to 0-4 buffer into the interval.

A Collie Daly single strengthened their hand after the restart, until a rejuvenated Brigid’s fired six points without reply to leave themselves within touching distance of a precious victory. Skerries had other ideas, however, and wing-back Robbie Clinton rattled the top corner of the net at the end of a blistering run.

They had to survive nine minutes of stoppage-time before they could be assured of the two points, but the Townparks men ultimately held out.

In a crucial battle towards the foot of the table, Thomas Davis earned bragging rights over southside rivals Templeogue Synge Street. Both sides were searching for a maiden league win, but it was the home team who came out on top (2-14 to 2-12).

Fingallians’ survival hopes received a much-needed boost at Lawless Park, where they had the measure of St Oliver Plunkett’s/Eoghan Ruadh. It proved to be a star-studded affair in Swords, with Dublin senior star Bernard Brogan being joined in attack by brothers Alan and Paul.

Yet, it was another familiar face who claimed the decisive score of the proceedings. Six-time Celtic Cross winner Paul Flynn recently called time on his inter-county career and bagged a 53rd-minute goal to steer Fingallians over the line.

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World Rugby U20 Championship Pool B Preview: Ireland V Australia – The Irish Examiner – June 8 2019

Posted on June 8, 2019 by admin

Two changes for crucial Rugby U20 Championship clash with Aussies

By Daire Walsh

Ireland head coach Noel McNamara has made two enforced changes to his starting line-up for today’s crunch World Rugby U20 Championship Pool B clash with Australia in Santa Fe, Argentina (2.30pm Irish time).

After he sustained a finger injury in Tuesday’s 42-26 win over England, Ulster full-back Iwan Hughes has been ruled out for the rest of the tournament. His place in the side is taken by Dublin University’s Rob Russell, while Ronan Watters deputises for Azur Allison in a reshuffled back row.

Whereas the Ulster No 8 will be back in contention once he completes the return-to-play protocols for his head injury, a facial issue has also brought Sean French’s tournament to an abrupt end. Though Aaron O’Sullivan and Max O’Reilly have been called up to the squad, they will not be involved on matchday two.

Having come through a high-scoring encounter with their arch rivals four days ago, McNamara is anticipating a much tighter affair with the junior Wallabies.

One of the things that strikes you [about Australia] is how good their defence is. How physical they are as a side. Very, very strong pack in particular.

“I think they’ve only conceded two tries over the course of their last three games. Between Fiji, New Zealand and Italy,” McNamara said.

“I think that gives an indication of the challenge that they’re going to pose. Their captain Fraser McReight is exceptionally strong over the ball. There’s going to be a few areas where we’re really going to have to be on top of our game if we want to come out on the right side of the result.”

Australia had 24 points to spare (36-12) in an accomplished triumph over Italy and with England expected to bounce back against the Azzurri, the race is on for top spot in the pool. While promising Munster scrum-half Craig Casey stood out in Ireland’s opening day victory, the form of his Australian counterpart has also provoked interest on these shores.

A native of the Cooley Peninsula in Louth, Michael McDonald moved to Perth with his parents and twin Andrew at the age of 13. Following an impressive debut in Australia’s successful U20 Oceania Championship campaign, the former Dundalk underage star has since established himself as a key figure in Jason Gilmore’s set-up.

IRELAND: R Russell; A Kernohan, L Turner, S Moore, J Wren; J Flannery, C Casey; J Wycherley, D Tierney-Martin, T Clarkson; C Ryan, R Baird; D McCann, R Watters, J Hodnett.

Replacements: J McKee, M Milne, C Ward, D Adamson, N Murray, C Booth, T Ahern, C Reilly, B Healy, C Foley.

AUSTRALIA: I Lucas; T Reilly, S Tupou, N Lolesio, M Nawaqanitawase; W Harrison, M McDonald; A Bell, L Lonergan, J Nasser; M Wood, T Hosea; H Wilson, F McReight, W Harris.

Replacements: J Cotton, B Abra, D Breen, R Van Nek, E Ha’angana, P Tafa, N Frost, C Tizzano, H Robertson, B Donaldson, S Tui, K Oates, J Walton.

Posted in U20 Rugby World Cup, U20 World Cup Rugby | Comments Off on World Rugby U20 Championship Pool B Preview: Ireland V Australia – The Irish Examiner – June 8 2019

Dublin Adult Football League Division One: St Jude’s V Cuala – Dublingaa.ie – June 7 2019

Posted on June 8, 2019 by admin

JUDES GET PAST CUALA IN THE AFL DIVISION 1

ADULT FOOTBALL LEAGUE DIVISION ONE 

ST JUDE’S 2-11 

CUALA 0-8 

By Daire Walsh 

Colm Murphy and substitute Dara Kavanagh grabbed goals in either half at Tymon Park on Thursday night to give 14-man St Jude’s victory over Cuala in Division One of the Adult Football League.

This sealed a fifth win on the bounce for the 2018 county championship finalists, who overcame the 29th-minute dismissal of Ciaran Fitzpatrick on their way to a nine-point success. Ahead of the remaining top-flight games on Saturday, Jude’s have moved up to second in the table – marginally edging out Kilmacud Crokes on score difference.

Cuala had been in a rich vein of form themselves, following up their May 8 draw with Skerries Harps at Hyde Park by recording three straight league victories. On the same weekend they put Fingallians to the sword (3-14 to 0-10), the in-form Jude’s had the measure of Skerries on the road.

They were back on home soil for this round eight encounter, and despite playing in testing conditions – which led to handling errors on both sides – David Sheehy squeezed them in front with a second-minute point.

The move that led to this deadlock-breaking score began with Luke Kelly turned away a goal-bound effort from Jude’s wing-back Tom Lahiff. Cork native Niall Coakley doubled their cushion with a sweet strike off his left-foot and they generally controlled the tempo of the play during the opening quarter.

Cuala struggled to make an attacking impact early on but following a period of sustained possession, an injection of pace by Conor Mullally got them inside the Jude’s half. He picked out David McMahon at the end of a blistering run, only for the latter to fired marginally past the target.

The hosts subsequently stretched their advantage on 14 minutes, when Murphy flicked home Mark Sweeney’s diagonal strike on the right-wing. Even though there was claims of a foul on Cuala netminder Kelly, the goal was allowed to stand.

Jude’s were forced to replace the injured Lahiff in the direct aftermath of Murphy’s major, though former Kildare footballer Fitzpatrick appeared to be an ideal replacement. With 19 minutes gone on the clock, Cuala finally opened their account through lively corner-forward Niall O’Callaghan (brother of Dublin senior footballer Con and senior hurler Cian).

He beat the advanced Liam Mailey to a long delivery and proceeded to split the uprights with an impressive curled effort. Jude’s responded immediately with a Diarmuid McLoughlin point, before Padraic Clarke converted a free with consummate ease.

It was beginning to look ominous for Cuala, until they received a timely boost in the closing moments of the first half. After Colum Sheanon and Fitzpatrick wrestled on the ground, they were both brandished with yellow cards.

This brought Fitzpatrick’s evening to an end as he had already been cautioned a couple of minutes earlier. The Dalkey outfit were consequently presented with a fighting chance and Jamie Keenan kicked his maiden point of the tie to cut their deficit to 1-4 to 0-2 in time for the interval.

While O’Callaghan and Luke Keating both went close to rattling the Jude’s net on the resumption, they could never quite make their numerical supremacy count. Inside forwards Clarke and Coakley pointed to keep the home team on the right track and following Mark Sweeney’s superb break, Coakley produced an outstanding stop out of Kelly.

Cuala’s third point arrived via Keating’s free in the 38th-minute, though this only provided them with a temporary respite. Corner-back Andy Sweeney surged forward to round off another patient move and Murphy also raised a white flag to give Jude’s a 10-point buffer.

Cuala were not prepared to throw in the towel, however, with Keenan and Mullally offering them some hope inside the closing-quarter. Keenan also knocked over a close-range free on 52 minutes but with the excellent duo of Clarke and Coakley bolstering their personal hauls either side of it, a win was effectively out of their reach.

As the final whistle approached, Coakley and Cuala’s Mark Treacy traded points in quick succession. Kavanagh was eager to make an impression for Jude’s off the bench and after he had been fouled for a Coakley free, he drilled a shot beyond the reach of Kelly in stoppage-time.

A Sheanon shot marginally cleared the crossbar in the final minute of play, but Jude’s were assured of maximum points by that stage. They will be back in action of Wednesday week (June 19) at Martin Savage Park – where St Oliver Plunkett’s/Eoghan Ruadh will provide the opposition.

Cuala will aim to bounce back when they welcome St Brigid’s to Glenageary on the same night.

Scorers – St Jude’s: Niall Coakley 0-4 (3f), Colm Murphy 1-1, Dara Kavanagh 1-0, Padraic Clarke 0-3 (1f), Andy Sweeney, Diarmuid McLoughlin, David Sheehy 0-1 each. Cuala: Jamie Keenan 0-3 (2f), Conor Mullally, Colum Sheanon, Mark Treacy, Luke Keating (f), Niall O’Callaghan 0-1 each.

ST JUDE’S: Liam Mailey; Andy Sweeney, Jack McGuire, Cillian O’Reilly; Tom Lahiff, Mark Sweeney, Alex Hassett; Colm Murphy, Kieran Doherty; Conor Mackle, Diarmuid McLoughlin, David Sheehy; Niall Coakley, Simon King, Padraic Clarke. Subs: Ciaran Fitzpatrick for Lahiff (15), Dara Kavanagh for Mackle (46), Sean Kavanagh for King (50).

CUALA: Luke Kelly; John Fitzsimons, Dylan Treacy, Jack Flynn; John Sheanon, Conor Mullally, Oisin Murphy; Brian Smith, James Power; Colum Sheanon, Mark Treacy, Luke Keating; Niall O’Callaghan, Jamie Keenan, David McMahon. Subs: Niall James for McMahon (44), Cathal O’Giollain for Keating (51), Philly O’Donnell for Murphy (58).

Referee: Seamus Farrelly (Ballinteer St John’s).

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