Saturday July 31 - Senior Football: Connemara Gaels v Cork

Connemara Gaels 0-17 Cork 1-11


Senior championship playoffs were not on the minds of these teams who met Saturday evening in Canton, Mass. Cork are pretty much out of contention, however, should the Gaels win their final two games there is a chance of the intermediate semi-finals. As it was, the Gaels played the better football over the 60 minutes on an evening that was ideal for football. The field had a little give, humidity was low and there was a slight breeze to keep things cool.

Cork's David Sheehan is closely watched by Pat McNicholas.

By the end of the first half the Gaels seemed to have the game locked up and in the bag. The forwards clicked and some neat interchanges resulted in scoring chances, most of which were taken advantage of. Martin Coady and Arlen Ahern exchanged points to get things going, and then the Gaels took over. Michael Lundy worked hard in midfield, while the Gaels defence was able for anything thrown at them by the Corkmen. Up front Pearce Clancy, Coleman Mulkerrins, and Coady were busy making the most of the possession sent their way. With the sides level at two points each after 12 minutes, the Gaels sent eight points over the bar without reply. Clancy, Coady, Tom McDonagh, and Lundy each thumped points over the bar from distance and the Gaels looked to be comfortably dealing with the rebels attack. At half time it was an eight point Gaels lead.

Martin Kane of the Gaels sidesteps Niall Devlin.

Cork won the second half, but not by enough to overturn the deficit. The rebels did not waste any time cutting into the Gaels lead. After Coady had put the Gaels nine points ahead just after the restart, Cork had reduced the lead to five points with scarcely five minutes of the half played. Niall Devlin, Niall Coakley, and two points from Sean Callinan brought some anxiety to the Gaels sideline. The Gaels settled back into the rhythm that they had found in the first half and the points began to flow again. McDonagh pointed, followed by a two lovely scores from Mulkerrins, and Coady point restored the lead to nine. Coady almost goaled but John O’Toole in the Cork goal was up to the close range shot. With the Gaels comfortably ahead, Cork hit with a goal ten minutes from the end. Devlin found David Sheehan who gave Bernard Power no chance from close range. Devlin follwed with a point and then there was only 4 points in it. It was backs to the wall for the Gaels as Cork saw their chance for a comeback and went for it. There were two badly missed goal chances, and Devlin almost netted but Power pulled off a great save. Cork were camped in the Gaels half for the last few minutes, but the westerners held out for a win and still with a chance to get something out of the season.



Gaels: B. Power, E. Sullivan, M. Kane, P. McNicholas, D. Ryan, S. McKiernan, P. Clancy (0-2), J. Donnelly, S. Cashin, C. Mulkerrins (0-2), T. McDonagh (0-3), M. Lundy (0-3), M. Coady (0-7). Cork: J. O’Toole, K. O’Leary, J. Crowley, S. Caulfield, C. Caffrey, A. Seymour, S. O’Donoghue, N. Coakley (0-2), A. Ahern (0-1), C. Crowley, D. Sheehan, K. Cashman, N. Devlin (1-2). Sub: Sean Callinan (0-5).


By Rory O'Donnell

Tables, Schedule, Previews

Schedule

Saturday July 31

4:15 Senior Football:  Cork v Connemara Gaels

5:30 Senior Hurling:  Wexford v Cork

Field B

Junior B Football:  Mayo v Connemara Gaels

Sunday August 1

12:00 Junior A Football:  Wolfe Tones v Donegal

1:15 Senior Football:  Armagh-Notre Dame v Wolfe Tones

2:30 Senior Football:  Donegal v Mayo

3:45 Senior Hurling:  Galway v Tipperary

5:00 Senior Football:  Christopher's v Aiden McAnespies

Field B

1:45 Junior A  Football:  Cork v Shannon Blues

Previews Sunday August 1

Senior Football


1:15 Wolfe Tones v Armagh-Notre Dame



This is Armagh-Notre Dame’s biggest game of the season, and the first of two tough games, one of which the Brighton side need to win to really have a shot at making the senior semi-finals. The Tones sit atop the table, and while a win guarantees a semi-final place the pressure on the South Boston side is not quite as great to pull it out. The Orchard men will be tested in every facet of the game against a team that impressed in their last outing against Shannon Blues. Armagh-Notre Dame have a lot going for them with some firepower in the forward line. David Quinn, who joined the Brighton side from Na Fianna in Dublin, has taken advantage of the extra space afforded in the two man full forward line, and Seamie O’Hare has also thrived at wing forward. Where the game will be won or lost for the underdogs is in the back line. Can they hold the dangerous Dan McCabe or his County Down compatriot, Marty Farrell? If so, this could be a close run affair, if not the Brighton side could be looking to beat Shannon Blues in their last game – a position they do not want to be in, while the Tones could be sitting back with the first of the season's objectives taken care of.



5:00 Aiden McAnespies v Christopher’s



Here we go, a repeat of last year’s semi-final. Christopher’s have to win this game or it is more than likely curtains for their hopes of defending the senior championship crown. Following last week’s shock loss to Galway, a lot of questions are being asked of Christopher’s, probably no more than by themselves. McAnespies are far from invincible as Donegal showed two weeks ago, however, as Donegal also showed, it takes bringing your "A Plus" game with you to come out on top against one of Boston's best. Christopher’s have some very strong players covering most areas of the field and will need some big performances to pull off the win. The middle of the field is an obvious area of strength with Dan Kenneally and Sean O’Hare forming what probably is the best midfield pairing of any team.  Christopher’s will be looking to the likes of Alan Maloney and Keith Scally in the forward line to take some pressure off Sean Kelly and Cathal McNally.  McNally has been doing it all season for Christopher's but if they have championship designs, Christopher's cannot continue to rely on getting high scoring performances from the Kildare man.  McAnespies will field a team, that if they click, can play some virtually flawless football.  The 2008 champions have a good blend of class and strength. Brendan McGarr has a great engine in the middle of the field, and a very strong half back line can put up a wall against the best of forward lines. Colm McCrory in the forward line is due a breakout game, while a close eye will be required to limit the damage CJ McGourty is capable of causing. Hard to call, but if I were to pick a winner, McAnespies forward line could win the day in the end.

Senior Hurling

3:45 Tipperary v Galway

Both teams are coming off wins in their previous games.  Last week table toppers Tipp looked very impressive, but face a tough test against a strong Galway side. Galway’s forward line look very good and presents a triple threat with the sharp shooting Shane Murphy, Willie Hyland, and Willie O’Dwyer. The tribesmen will also need to be disciplined at the back as Tipp free taker, Martin Boran, will not miss too many frees within 70 yards. Tipp have several dangerous forwards to pick from and should they get motoring Galway could be in trouble. Shane Bourke, Boran, and Derek McNicholas will need to be kept on a short leash, and Galway’s half back line will need to weather a lot of pressure. The more open the game is, the more it could suit Tipp who, when given the room, have shown an ability to almost score at will.  The scores have not come as freely for Galway so far this year. If Galway can keep it tight the westerners are in with a good chance, if Tipp can get ahead early and have Galway chasing the game, they could come out of it with their 100% record intact.

Denis O'Brien's Gaelicsportscast

#112 Champions shocked in Boston

Listen to the run down from last weekend's senior championship action.

July 25 - Senior Football: Kerry v Connemara Gaels

Connemara Gaels 1-8 Kerry 0-12
 Kerry managed to edge the Gaels in a game where tempers flared late in the second half, and there were 5 players sent to the line – all in the second period. For the second week in a row the Gaels failed to take advantage of a sending off for the opposition. Fifteen minutes into the second half, Joe McGillicuddy was shown red for swinging back at Dean Ryan. The Gaels held a two point lead at the time. Playing a man short, Kerry came back into the game and with the game tied in injury time, Anthony Fenton put the winning point over the bar.

Michael Lundy makes a run for the Gaels.

Kerry held the edge after the first period had ended. Matthew Moffat returned to the Kerry lineup in the middle of the field, and Joe McGillicuddy took the field at center forward. The Gaels also had a rearranged lineup. Martin Coady at corner forward was the main outlet for scores, the former Galway junior player accounted for all four first half points. Kerry moved the ball well in the early going and had the better of the midfield exchanges. Moffatt and McGillicuddy usually had a hand in Kerry’s forward forays and the green and gold moved into a three points to one lead. The Gaels found their feet about 15 minutes into the game and the work rate was stepped up. Michael Lundy worked hard in one corner and in the other, Coady put two points over the bar to level the game. Kerry edged into the lead coming up to half time with points from Moffat, Rob Foley and Michael Geaney, while Coady pointed again for the Gaels.

The Gaels' James Donnelly and Kerry's David Coughlin contest a kickout.

The second half was going well for the westerners until Joe McGillicuddy was sent off for Kerry. After Colm Moriarty put Kerry three points ahead, the Gaels hit with a goal and two points. A Coady free was followed with a goal from substitute Pearce Clancy. Coady had a hand in the score as his free across the face of goal was grabbed by Clancy, who turned and fired into the net. The goal put the Gaels a point to the good, and once again Coady pointed to make it a two point lead for the Connemara men with 15 minutes to go – not necessarily a good position to be in if you are a Gaels fan. Robbie Croft usually gets a mention, and was having a quiet game up to that point. Croft had missed some chances, but put a ’45 over the bar. Coady answered for the Gaels, but Croft made himself heard with another free. Tom McDonagh answered for the Gaels with a well taken point and with less then five minutes to go it looked like the Gaels men would hang on.

Kerry dug deep, and Jer Molloy who had entered as a sub brought Kerry within a point, and who else but Croft tied it up with a point and two minutes to go. Then all hell broke loose. The Gaels were moving upfield when a player from each side, it looked like Hugh O’Neill for the Gaels and Michael Geaney for Kerry, were tangled up in a wrestling match. The sidelines got involved and in addition to Geaney and O’Neill, Kerry’s Moffat was shown the red. It was now 10 versus 12, but Kerry, against the odds were the ones who pulled it out. With the Gaels extra men not joining the attack, Kerry fell back and center back Anthony Fenton broke out of defence and pointed with hardly any time left on the clock. The Gaels Dean Ryan was the last man to be shown the line as the game ended in a great win for Kerry against the odds, but a game that would not go down as one for the kids.

Gaels: B. Power, E. Sullivan, H. O’Neill, P. McNicholas, D. Ryan, S. McKiernan, M. Geoghan, J. Donnelly, M. Kane, S. Cashen, T. McDonagh (0-1), M. Coady (0-7), M. Lundy. Sub P. Clancy (1-0). Kerry: B. O’Connor, S. Hogan, K. O’Connor, M. Godley, A. Fenton (0-1), S. O’Leary, D. Coughlin, M. Moffatt (0-1), R. Foley (0-1), J. McGillicuddy (0-3), C. Moriarty (0-1), R. Croft (0-3), M. Geaney (0-1). Sub: J. Molloy (0-1).


By Rory O'Donnell

July 25 - Ladies Senior Football: Boston Shamrocks v Tir na nOg

Boston Shamrocks 1-4 Tir na nOg 2-17


Tir na nOg took a 2-1 lead with a fine second half performance in this best of five series for the Ladies Senior Football Championship. Leading by three points at the end of one, the Brighton based side opened the second half with seven straight points before the Shamrocks tallied a score. The Tir na nOg back line put in a superb performance in the second half, with Lisa Brick and Aisling Kelly leading the way, while up front Laurie Ahern put in a great performance.

Niamh Woods bursts upfield for the Shamrocks.

The Shamrocks played well in the opening period, but their challenge faded early in the second half. Had their finishing touch been sharper, it could very well have been the eventual losers of the game that led at half time. Treasa Doherty worked hard in corner forward, while Niamh Woods looked to be commanding the half back line. Deirdre Kelliher was a busy goalkeeper in the first half and was called on to make at least two great saves. Once from Charlotte Delaney, who never really got going all game long, and another from a well worked effort that Catriona Treanor tried to finish off. Tir na nOg proved more adept at capitalizing on their first half chances. The champions clipped three points, one from Ahern and two from Emma Conlon, while at the opposite end the Shamrocks hit two very scoreablef rees wide and another chance from play. The Shamrocks eventually got on the scoreboard thanks to a Mairead Doherty point, and Sinead Fadden brought them within a point with another well taken score. Conlon put two more frees over the bar for Tir na nOg and Niamh Coleman one, while Treanor pointed the Shamrocks last score of the half. After a closely contested first thirty minutes there was nothing to hint at the complete Tir na nOg takeover to come.

Tir na nOg took over on the second half of their encounter with the Boston Shamrocks.


It was a great second half from a Tir na nOg standpoint. Tir na nOg moved the ball well in the second half. From Brick at full back, through Kelly at center back and Laura Nerney in midfield and Conlon at center forward, Tir na nOg took complete control of the game. Tir na nOg put seven unanswered points over the bar, and after 17 minutes led by 10 points with the Shamrocks yet to score. The first half form deserted the Shamrocks, and some tight play from the Tir na nOg backs and aggressive blocking and tackling held the Shamrocks forwards in check. A point from Grainne Collery highlighted the way Tir na nOg were playing. The ball passed through four sets of forwards hands as they patiently moved the ball until finally Collery had the opening and took her score. There was a glimmer of hope for the Shamrocks after Charlotte Delaney latched on to a breaking ball to slot a goal home, but that was quickly extinguished. With the Shamrocks needing goals, it was Tir na nOg who scored them. Two goals in the final 10 minutes, one from Collery and the other from Niamh Coleman, underlined a comprehensive win for Tir na nOg. The first 3 games of the series have ended with one sided scorelines, however, I will not be surprised if the Shamrocks bounce back for the next one and we see a winner take all game later in August.


Shamrocks: K. Rosedale, J. O’Connell, C. Dolan, J. O’Donoghue, A. McDonnell, N. Woods, N. Hurst, M. Kavanagh (0-1), E. Burns, C. Treanor (0-1), S. Maloney, S. Fadden (0-1), C. Delaney (1-0), J. Norman, T. Doherty. Sub: G. Coyle (0-1). Tir na nOg: D. Kelliher, L. Gilmore, L. Brick, N. Daly (0-1), S. Patterson, A. Kelly, A. Waters, L. Ahern (0-5), L. Nerney, C. Kelly (0-1), E. Conlon (0-3), A. Cregan, G. Collery (1-4), N. Coleman (1-2), A. Bowie. Sub: T. Moran (0-1).


By Rory O'Donnell

July 25 - Senior Hurling: Tipperary v Fr. Tom Burke's

Tipperary 3-26 Fr. Tom Burke’s 0-15


Tipperary continue to roll with a 100% record, while 2010 is shaping up to be a season to forget for Fr. Tom’s. From the get go it was clear that this was not going to be a competitive encounter. Too many players were unavailable for Tom’s due to a variety of factors, not an ideal situation going into a game against the unbeaten Tipperary.

Tom's Dermot Neylon tries to get past Shane Bourke of Tipp.

Tipp began to roll early. Within three minutes a goal and two points were on the scoreboard. Two Shane Bourke points were followed by a Paul McGrath goal. Joe Keane saved the initial shot from Derek McNicholas but McGrath was on hand to pick up the rebound and fire it home. Within six minutes Tipp had hit the net a second time, again it was McGrath. The lively corner forward hit the second of an eventual hat trick. Tom’s relied on Fran Keenan for 6 of their 9 first half points. At one point Tom’s trailed by 4 points, 2-4 to 0-6 and were creeping closer, but Tipp’s Martin Boran, Michael Gleeson, and Bourke were in sharp in finding the spot between the posts. Eanna Murphy, Sean O’Brien, and Trevor Kelly pointed for Tom’s in the first half and the westerners showed some fight in the first period, but trailed by three clear goals at the end of one 2-12 to 0-9.

McGrath completed his hat trick early in the second half. Michael Gleeson, Dean Delaney and Boran kept the scores pouring over the Tom’s crossbar. The final 15 minutes were a formality as a slew of points were racked up in the Tipp column. With 5 scoring forwards Tipp will be hard to stop in the run in for the championship and are in pole position to get the bye and go straight into the final. Tom’s face some more difficult games ahead and will need all of their players in good health to put some pressure on Galway or Wexford to force a playoff spot.

Tipp: T. Lowry, B. Kenny, J. Kendregan, E. Gleeson, K. Joyce, S. Hickey, T. Treacy, M. Gleeson, C. Fennelly, M. Boran, S. Bourke, D. McNicholas, P. McGrath. Tom’s: J. Keane, D. Moore, C. Horan, J. Dowling, T. Kelly, S. O’Brien, L. Mulhern, D. Neylon, S. Howley, F. Keenan, E. Murphy, C. Neylon, D. Delaney.


By Rory O'Donnell

Senior Champiosnhip Results July 24-25

Senior Football
Saturday July 24
Aiden McAnespies 3-12 Cork 1-8
Galway 0-10 Christopher's 0-8
Sunday July 25
Connemara Gaels 1-8 Kerry 0-12
Wolfe Tones bt. Shannon Blues (Late Result)

Ladies Football: 
Tir na nOg 2-17 Boston Shamrocks 1-4

Senior Hurling:
Tipperary 3-26 Fr. Tom Burke's 0-15

Tables, Schedule, and Previews

Schedule

Saturday July 24

4:15 Senior Football:  Galway v Christopher's

5:30 Senior Football:  Aiden McAnespies v Cork

Field B

5:45 Junior A Football:  Shannon Blues v Armagh-Notre Dame

Sunday July 25

12:00 Junior A Football:  Aiden McAnespies v Donegal

1:15 Ladies Senior Football:  Tir na nOg v Boston Shamrocks

2:30 Senior Football:  Connemara Gaels v Kerry

3:45 Senior Hurling:  Fr. Tom Burke's v Tipperary

5:00 Senior Football:  Shannon Blues v Wolfe Tones

Field B

12:30 Junior A Football: Kerry v New England Celtics

2:45 Junior B Football:  Aiden McAnespies v Donegal

4:15 Ladies Junior Football:  Tir na nOg v Boston Shamrocks

Previews  Sunday July 25

Senior Football



2:30: Kerry v Connemara Gaels



With each team on 4 points, but with Kerry having one less game played, the Kingdom sits in a slightly better position than the Gaels. Both teams have some tough games coming up and a win here will provide a boost. Kerry’s obvious strong point is their front man, Robbie Croft. Croft has been an invaluable asset to the green and gold this year, and the Gaels will have their work cut out to keep the Dubliner reined in. Kerry are also strong in the half back line. With Joe McGillicuddy and Sean O’Leary manning the first line of defence and with Michael Geaney at center forward, Kerry have talent spread throughout the field. The Gaels have a finely balanced side, though they have not won the “must wins” this year. Having almost turned the high flying Shannon Blues, the Gaels came a cropper against Armagh-Notre Dame despite having a man advantage for most of the game. However, if the Gaels have a good game in them no better time than now to come out with it.  With three games left and a chance to still finish on 10 points, the Connemara men still have everything to play for. If the Gaels can find an answer to Croft and get good performances from key players Coleman Mulkerrins and Andy O’Neill, they could pull off a morale boosting win.



5:00: Wolfe Tones v Shannon Blues



Coming off last week’s loss to Christopher’s, the Blues need a win against the as yet unbeaten Wolfe Tones. With two losses, a third could jeopardize last year’s finalists chances of making another appearance in the playoffs. The Blues could be without key player JP Murphy at wing back, which would hurt their chances. For their part, there are questions over the availability of Dean Rock and Gary Brilly to play for the Tones on Sunday. The Blues will be looking to their full forward line to keep the Tones under pressure, and Denis McElligott to hold the fort at center back. The Tones corner backs will have their hands full, so keeping the supply of ball restricted will be key for them. Joey Farrell, Mick Magee, and Marty Farrell will be key to the Tones chances of maintaining their unbeaten run. Hard to call the game, but the Tones could be slow out of the gate after a couple of weeks without a game, and with the Blues badly needing the win, I will go with last years finalists to take two points from the game.



Senior Hurling



3:45: Tipperary v Fr. Tom Burke’s



Tipperary are well on their way to senior hurling the playoffs, while Tom’s are in desperate need of a win. Tipp are coming off a convincing win against arch rivals, Wexford. The Tipp forward line has shown itself to be capable of spreading out the scoring burden, and while Martin Boran, the former Kilkenny intermediate hurler, is the main source, the other 4 forwards can take a point at any time. Tom’s struggled to generate scores in the second half of their last outing against Galway while without the services of Fran Keenan. Also, things do not appear to be working in Tom’s favour on the personnel front. Center back, Darryl Dooley is clearly nursing a hamstring, and Ciaran Moore may be unavailable after being sent off in the previous outing. Regardless, if Tom’s are to come out on top the other front men will be required to find their scoring touch. Perhaps Tom’s can life themselves for a game against the top team, but Tipp is where most of the money will be.



Ladies Senior Football

1:15 Boston Shamrocks v Tir na nOg



With Roscommon out for this year, the Boston Shamrocks and Tir na nOg are playing a best of 5 for the ladies championship. The series is even at one game each, so this game is critical. The second game, from which the Shamrocks emerged victorious, was quite the opposite of the first – which Tir na nOg won comprehensively. The Shamrocks’ corner forward, Charlotte Delaney required some stopping. Delaney ran riot in her last outing. Tir na nOg will be looking to key players Laurie Aherne, Andrea Bowie, and Emma Conlon to lead a turnaround for the Brighton side. This is the pivotal game that neither side will want to lose, and it should be a good one.

By Rory O'Donnell

#104 Champs down Blues again while Donegal topple ‘Macs in Boston

Listen to the run down on last weekend's games with Denis O'Brien at GaelicSportsCast.

#104 Champs down Blues again while Donegal topple ‘Macs in Boston

Siansa 8 Question of the Month Winner!

The answers to our question of the month for July are:

(a) Who did Louth Play in the 1957 Leinster final? Answer - Dublin

(b) What was the score? Answer - Louth 2-9 Dublin 1-7

(c) Who scored Louth's first goal? Answer - Jimmy McDonnell
 
Congratulations to winner,Susan Fulton of Brighton, Mass., who wins a $50 gift certificate to Siansa 8. 
 
Keep an eye out for the August Question of the Month in the next week or two.

July 18 - Senior Football: Aiden McAnespies v Donegal

McAnespies 1-11 Donegal 1-14

Donegal prevailed in a cracking game and finally produced the kind of performance many of us suspected that they were capable of delivering. The team was rejigged a little, with Kieran Lillis lining out at wing back, and Michael McGinty and Laoisman John O’Loughlin in midfield. McAnespies were more or less unchanged, however, Thomas Corrigan was carrying a hamstring injury and his having to leave the fray early did not help the cause of the South Boston based side. There was never much between the teams and plenty of yellow cards were issued, which kept a tense game under control. With about 10 minutes left in the game Donegal got the decisive score. With the sides level a Paddy Kelly goal proved to be the difference in the end.

Conor McGourty showed his class with some fantastic scores for McAnespies.


The opening score of the game came from a Thomas Corrigan free kick after 2 minutes. Yellows were issued soon after to Colm McCrory and his marker Daniel Granagh. Donegal then went into surge mode. Lillis from wing back and O’Loughlin from midfield overran the McAnespies defences on several occasions, while Brian Lafferty was popping up all over the forward line and proving a handful for the McAnespies defencers.  Four points resulted for Donegal. Conor Rafferty, Lafferty and O’Loughlin (2) put Donegal three points ahead. There could have been a goal in there also, but the sure score was opted for in the early going. McAnespies hit right back with two beautiful points, one from each corner forward, Corrigan and CJ McGourty. Paddy Kelly pointed with 16 minutes gone and Lafferty extended Donegal’s lead to three with a free - the Ballybofey man was playing probably his best game in a Donegal shirt this year. Corrigan then had to leave the fray with his injury flaring, and Coleman Hands was brought in at wing back. McAnespies rearranged their positions to accommodate, but a player of Corrigan’s talent is a big loss to any side.

Michael McGinty had an important hand in Donegal's second half goal.


McAnespies then took the lead. McGourty pointed and followed with a goal after being fed by Conor Murray; Neil Donaghy had won the possession. More yellow cards were issued, Conor Rafferty and Tiernan Diamond were cautioned, Rafferty and his marker, Hands, seemed to be constantly in push and shove mode. Lafferty drew Donegal level with a point and McGourty made sure McAnespies went into the break a point up, 1-5 to 0-7.

The second half continued at the same high energy tempo as the first. Tony McClelland did well at center back from McAnespies and for Donegal, O’Loughlin took a more forward position on the edge of the square. Lafferty drew the sides level with a point, then Malin native Brian Kelly joined the ranks of the sinners as he was shown the eighth yellow of the game. Two Donegal points, one by Lafferty and the other from Rafferty, were sandwiched by scores from Colm McCrory and CJ McGourty. With about ten minutes to go the sides were level. Paddy Kelly then hit the goal that in the end decided the game. McGinty won the ball in the middle of the field and a long pass found Kelly who rounded the keeper and blasted home. McGourty narrowed the deficit to two points, but Donegal drove home their advantage in the final minutes. A point from Kelly, two more from O’Loughlin and a Lafferty free made it a five point game. Luke Sweetman and McGourty narrowed the gap to a goal in the waning minutes, but Donegal held on. The win rekindles some hope for Donegal of making the playoffs, regardless of the circumstances the Tír Chonaill men will take great satisfaction from the win.

Macs: S. Connolly, D. Wylie, M. Boyne, C. O’Sullivan, T. McClelland, D. Tobin (0-1), N. Donaghy (0-1), B. McGarr, C. Murray, C. McCrory (0-1), T. Diamond, CJ McGourty (1-5), T. Corrigan (0-2). Sub, L. Sweetman (0-1). Donegal: M. Boyle, T. McGuire, N. Collins, D. Granagh, N. Gurley, K. Lillis, M. McGinty, J. O’Loughlin (0-4), C. Rafferty (0-2), S. Burke B. Lafferty (0-6), B. Kelly, P. Kelly (1-2).

By Rory O'Donnell

July 18 - Senior Football: Cork v Galway

Galway 0-15 Cork 1-8

Cork lost the plot in the second half of their game with Galway. With the sides level at the half and Cork playing some good football, the rebels looked like they forgot the way to goal in the second period. That said, the teams were level going into the final 10 minutes and Cork had every chance, but it was Galway who worked better as a team in the latter stages and put some distance between them and their opponents.

Cork's Shane McCarthy and Galway's Michael Normile contest a high ball.


Things were all square at the end of the first half. Cork goaled with about 20 minutes gone through Aaron Cahilane. Cork won the ball in the back line and thanks for some neat passing from their corner forwards, the ball found Cahilane barreling through the center and the Kerry native buried it. Stephen O’Donoghue worked hard in midfield for Cork throughout. Much of Cork’s possession came from the Bishopstown man’s hard work. Niall Devlin and Arlen Aherne had Cork’s first two points, and just before Cork’s goal from Cahilane, Colin Crowley almost netted for the southerners but JJ O’Neill cleared off the line. Cork wasted a good handful of scoring chances, while for their part Galway kept picking off the points. Even though it seemed that even though the ball spent more time in Cork hands, Galway kept pace and were more efficient with their chances. Dave Corbett opened their account, Gearoid O’Connor tallied three for the tribesmen in the first period. Peter Nolan put two over the bar – one with each foot, and Jarlath McGeeney also pointed for the westerners. Anthony Seymour and Aaron Cahilane accounted for the balance of Cork’s points, and at the half it was all square at 0-7 to 1-4.

Cork's Niall Devlin and Galway's Peter Ryan tussle for posession.


Galway showed more guile going forward in the second half. Cork did not show much in the way of imagination and more often than not, returned the ball right back into Galway hands. When Cork did engineer a scoring chance the final effort was all too often a poor one. Also, the fact that center back, Aaron Cahilane, who had scored 1-1 in the first half, had to exit proceedings did not help the rebels cause. Galway looked the more dangerous side going forward. O’Connor and Ryan O’Dwyer combined well in the early going, and Jarlath McGeeney and Dave Corbett each pointed. Corbett could have had a goal, but blazed his effort over the bar after being played in well. Arlen Aherne pointed for Cork and then won the kickout; Shane McCarthy leveled the scores from the possession. After O’Connor put Galway one to the good with a free, Stephen O’Donoghue leveled again with a solo effort. O’Donoghue ran about 50 yards himself and popped the ball over – a score that was in fact indicative of Cork’s problems going forward. Danny Reddin then had a goal chance saved by John O’Toole at the other end, but Cork failed to clear and John Joe O’Neill pointed and was followed by Gearoid O’Connor to put Galway two up. Galway introduced Conrad Reilly and with the game still not over – a Cork goal could still win it – Reilly pointed three times in the final three minutes to secure the win for Galway.

Galway: A. Reddy, P. Cummins, S. Melia, S. Gallagher, M. Normile, JJ O’Neill (0-1), P. Ryan, R. O’Dwyer, J. McGeeney (0-2), G. O’Connor (0-5), P. Nolan (0-2), D. Reddin, D. Corbett (0-2). Sub, C. Reilly (0-3). Cork: J. O’Toole, K. O’Leary, C. Caffrey, D. Kearns, A. Cahilane (1-1), J. Foley, S. O’Donoghue (0-1), R. Murphy, A. Seymour (0-1), S. McCarthy (0-1), A. Aherne (0-2), N. Devlin (0-1), C. Crowley .

By Rory O'Donnell

July 18 - Senior Football: Christopher's v Shannon Blues

Shannon Blues 0-9 Christopher’s 1-8

Christopher’s came out on top in a tremendously exciting game where each side had a man sent off and had chances to win it in the closing stages. With the additional space afforded by the dismissals, and the 90 degree heat, fatigue began to show in the latter stages of the game. Christopher’s put in a fine performance throughout the field and once again came through when the chips were down.

Alan Holland in posession for the Blues with Barry McNally in close pursuit.


With a stiff breeze in their favour, the Blues had the better of things during the first 30 minutes. The half opened with Alan Holland points from play answered with Cathal McNally scores from frees. The Blues put two points over from Shane Lannon and Enda Mullarkey before a pivotal incident reduced each side by a player. Dave Ward, who had just come on as a sub, and his marker JP Murphy, got into a bout of fisticuffs and each player was shown the line. Keith Scally made it three points for Christopher’s before Paul O’Connor and Holland each pointed to put the Blues three to the good at the break.

It all came down to the last two minutes between the Blues and Christopher's on Sunday.


The Blues started the second half with a point resulting from a fine move that started with corner back Shane Kelly and ended with O’Connor taking the score. Christopher’s then began to take over proceedings. That breeze was now in their favour, and midfielders Dan Kenneally and Sean O’Hare kept the ball from traveling beyond the Blues half for an extended period. Cathal McNally pointed from a free to cut the deficit to two points. Shortly afterwards McNally was through on goal after superbly gathering a great ball over the top, but Declan Hawes was equal to the shot and put the ball out for a 45. O’Hare put the resulting 45 over the bar with room to spare, then came the goal. A similar chance to the previous one was put away by McNally as he picked a higher spot the second time, and Christopher’s were now on top. Barry McNally steamed through from center back and put Christopher’s two up, but Paul O’Connor and Ken Kileen points leveled the scores for the Blues with 10 minutes to go.

The game hung in the balance as the minutes ticked away, and the Blues were back and very much in it again. O’Connor had a chance to put the Blues up after O’Hare was blown for a pickup, but his curling free from about 45 yards hit the outside of the post. Cathal McNally then had chance from a free and a similar distance for Christopher’s, and the ball sailed over with the breeze. From the kickout Christopher’s went two points ahead after Sean Kelly found McNally with a great pass and the Kildare man provided the insurance point with the game in injury time. The Blues had one last chance to try to snatch a goal and dropped a 45 into the penalty area, but Christopher’s packed the box and came away with the ball – and a very valuable win.

Blues: D. Hawes, S. Kelly, N. Galvin, JP Murphy, D. McElligott (0-1), L. Jennings, M. O’Brien, P. Murray, P. McGee, S. Lannon (0-1), E. Mullarkey (0-1), P. O’Connor (0-2), A. Holland (0-3). K. Kileen (0-1). Christopher’s: P. Kenneally, N. Ryan, C. McDonald, B. Kelly, B. McNally (0-1), C. Alyward, D. Kenneally, S. O’Hare (0-1), K. Scally (0-1), S. Kelly, J. Kenneally, A. Maloney, C. McNally (1-5).

By Rory O'Donnell

Scores Sunday July 18

In three senior football matches played Sunday the scores were as follows:

Christopher's 1-8 Shannon Blues 0-9
Cork 1-8 Galway 0-15
Aiden McAnespies 1-11 Donegal 1-14
Reports coming.....



The senior hurling match between Wexford and Cork was postponed due to a bereavement in the Cork hurling club.

July 17 - Senior Hurling: Fr. Tom Burke's v Galway

Fr. Tom Burke’s 0-8 Galway 1-11

Galway pulled away in the second half of a low scoring affair to secure an important win in this clash of rivals. With 17 scores in the first half one may have expected to see the same in the second, but it turned out to be a mirror image with the scoreboard moving just six times, and it was only in the Galway column that moved. Tom’s cause was not helped by nagging injuries to center back Darryl Dooley and center forward Fran Keenan. The sides kept pace in the first half, but Galway pulled away in a controlled second half performance, and kept Tom’s scoreless for over 30 minutes.

Tom's John O'Loughlin contests with Galway's Willie Hyland. 


The first half was evenly contested. While it would not be described as flowing hurling, the sides kept pace with each other. Willie Hyland, Greg Lally, and Willie O’Dwyer all found the mark for Galway, Lally putting a nice point over and O’Dwyer punishing some tentativeness in the Tom’s back line when clearing the ball. For Tom’s Fran Keenan, Ciaran Moore, and Trevor Kelly kept the scoreboard ticking. Things began to get a little rambunctious just before half time, and Ciaran Moore and Jamie McCormack were each yellow carded for an off the ball episode. At the break Galway led by a single point, 0-9 to 0-8.

Ciaran Moore fields cleanly for Tom's despite the attention of Eoin Whooley.


The game had a little more bite to it in the second half, however, Tom’s Fran Keenan had left the fray due to his injury and Tom’s lacked a scoring punch for the period. Galway’s Hyland extended the lead five minutes into the second period, and a long scoreless period ensued. Dooley soldiered at center back for Tom’s, and the Galway backs swallowed up everything sent in their direction. Trailing by a couple of points, Tom’s needed something to change their fortunes up front. Eanna Murphy and Conor Neylon were introduced to the fray in the hope of registering a score. Galway on the other hand had also introduced some fresh legs, and James Dowling who came on in midfield did very well as did Enda Concannon. And while they were not exactly lighting up the scoreboard themselves, Galway’s back line looked like they had the measure of the Tom’s forward line. Willie Hyland put a well worked point over the bar, and then spurned a chance of a goal. With Galway a goal ahead, Keenan was reintroduced by Tom’s, but it was Galway who got the goal to double their lead. Tom’s keeper Joe Keane got under a high ball, but under pressure was unable to catch it and Aiden Callinan was first to the break to poke the ball home.

Tom’s desperately needed a goal now, and did pull a save out of Eric Ward. Trevor Kelly was played through but Ward was up to his angled shot. Ciaran Moore was given his marching orders for a dangerous pull on Dowling with minutes left to go and that signaled the end of Tom’s hopes. As the clock ran down Galway looked at ease as Tom’s were resigned to their fate.

Tom’s: J. Keane, D. Moore, C. Hands, J. O’Loughlin, D. Dooley, S. O’Brien, L. Mulhearn, S. Howley, T. Kelly, F. Keenan, C. Moore, D. Delaney, G. Reddin. Subs: C. Neylon, D. Neylon. Galway: E. Ward, C. O’Driscoll, J. O’Callaghan, E. Whooley, B. Regan, P. Nolan, G. Lally, A. Callinan, S. Dineen, S. Maher, W. Hyland, S. Murphy, W. O’Dwyer.  Subs: J. Dowling, E. Concannon.

By Rory O'Donnell

Tables, Schedule, and Previews

Schedule

Saturday July 17

4:15 Senior Football Championship:  Armagh-Notre Dame v Mayo

5:30 Senior Hurling Championship:  Fr. Tom Burke's v Galway

Field B

5:30 Junior A Football:  New England Celtics v Aiden McAnespies

Sunday July 18

12:00 Junior A Football:  Shannon Blues v Wolfe Tones

1:15 Senior Football Championship:  Cork v Galway

2:30 Senior Football Championship Christopher's v Shannon Blues

3:45 Senior Hurling Championship:  Cork v Wexford

5:00 Senior Football Championship:  Aiden McAnespies v Donegal

Field B

1:45 Junior A Football:  Donegal v Kerry

3:00 Junior B Football:  Connemara Gaels v Hartford

Previews

Sunday July 18

2:30 Senior Football Championship: Christopher’s v Shannon Blues


In a repeat of last season’s Boston final, Shannon Blues will be eager to gain a measure of revenge against the champions. Christopher’s on the other hand, will be anxious to put two more championship points on the board in order to move quickly up the table and closer to the top four. The game presents some interesting sub-plots. Dermot McElligott lining out at center back for the Blues will have a tough assignment in marking Sean Kelly at center forward for Christopher’s, it will be interesting to see who comes out on top there. It will also be interesting to see who will come out on top in the midfield battle. Christopher’s midfielders, Dan Kenneally and Sean O’Hare might have an edge over their counterparts. The Blues prolific scoring full forward line of Paul O’Connor and Alan Holland will give Christopher’s management some food for thought in how to try an minimize the threat. The game is a tough call, but I expect to see a close game that will be decided by no more than a score.


3:45 Senior Hurling Championship: Cork v Wexford


With Cork still looking for a win this season, along with Wexford coming off a loss last weekend to Tipperary, both sides should be approaching this game with every intention of giving 100%. Cork will have their work cut out however. Wexford’s forward line contains an array of scoring players, while in the middle of the field Stephen White has a good engine and a great eye for the posts. With Dominic Magill anchoring the back line Wexford appear to possess the better hand. Cork were unlucky in their last outing against a strong Galway side, and there are several players who the rebels will be looking to in order to pull off a win. Ronan Good in the half back line, Ritchie Ruth in the middle of the field and Eoin McCormack will cause problems for Wexford. I’d expect to see a competitive game, but would be surprised should Cork pull off an unlikely victory.

5:00 Senior Football Championship: Donegal v Aiden McAnespies


There is no love lost between these two sides who have dominated the Boston football scene between them over the last several years. This year has been a struggle for Donegal so far, however. On the other hand, McAnespies have looked very strong since their opening game against Mayo, and the northerners received a boost with CJ McGourty getting the blessing of Croke Park to play. With strength in every sector of the field McAnespies will be hard to beat this year. Donegal have plenty of talent themselves, and will need the likes of Paddy Kelly, Conor Rafferty, and Kieran Lillis to produce their best if the Tir Chonaill men are to prevail. Donegal have under-performed so far this year and given their opponents I expect them to raise their game. The northerners would love nothing more than to produce an upset win over their arch rivals, but then again McAnespies too will be looking for nothing less than a convincing win.

By Rory O'Donnell

Discussion of last weekend's games with Denis O'Brien at gaelicsportscast.com.

#96 Shamrocks gain revenge while Tipp top Wexford in Boston

Since I spoke with Denis, Croke Park have clarified that any intercounty player who has a sanction must also prove that he is eligible for a J-1 visa in order to play here in Boston this summer.

July 11 - Senior Football: Donegal v Galway

Donegal 1-11 Galway 0-5

Donegal left it until the second half to take this game by the scruff of the neck. Having played second fiddle to Galway for most of the first half, Donegal awoke in the second and played something like they would have expected of themselves. Going into the break level, Donegal came out and started the second half with purpose and ended up comfortable nine point victors.

Jamie Keogh tries to contain Donegal's Collie Carr.


Galway had Donegal on the ropes early. The Tribesmen moved the ball well with some smooth passing forays and went up a deserved four points to no score after 20 minutes. Danny Reddin opened the scoring with a point, and Gearoid O’Connor, who had just played an hour of hurling in very hot conditions, followed with a fine score. Galway squandered a handful of opportunites as Donegal were not in the game at all. After Conrad O’Reilly put Galway three up, Jarlath McGeeney made it four with a blast from close range that in truth could have easily gone under the bar for a goal. With Donegal offering little in the way of opposition, their mentors must have been at a loss to figure out what was not working. Eventually Conor Rafferty pointed on 24 minutes and the score seemed to open the sluice gates for the northerners. Rafferty followed with another and Brian Lafferty put two over before the signal for the break to even the scores. Donegal will have been the happier of the two sides given the dominance of Galway for the first 20 minutes.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Thomas McGuire comes out of defence for Donegal as referee John Fitzpatrick keeps and eye on things.
 
 
Donegal woke up in the second half, and right from the throw in Paddy Kelly buried their first chance. With Kieran Lellis and Sean Burke working harder in midfield, and Rafferty and Kelly finally showing their pedigree, Donegal took the game by the scruff of the neck and started picking off the points. Rafferty and Lafferty added a point each as Donegal took a more direct route to goal in finding the dangermen with early balls. After Ger McArdle and Conor McAlary traded points Galway’s second half woes were underlined with Danny Reddin missing a close range free from the 21. Donegal put the final five points of the game over the bar without reply. Donegal will have been happy with the second half performance, but the overall performance seemed to lack consistency. A win for Galway would have been a major upset, nevertheless the westerners will have been disappointed that their second half performance came nowhere close to that of the first.
 
Donegal: M. Boyle, T. McGuire, N. Gurhy, D. Graham, G. Reddin, D. McGowan, S. Burke, K. Lellis, C. Carr, C. Rafferty (0-5), K. Curran, P. Kelly (1-0), B. Lafferty (0-4). Subs: C. McAlary (0-1), D. Meehan (0-1). Galway: A. Reddy, P. Cummins, S. Melia, S. Gallagher, M. Normile, J. Keogh, G. McArdle (0-1), N. Kilcoyne, P. Hackett, J. McGeeney (0-1), G. O’Connor (0-1), C. O’Reilly (0-1) D. Reddin (0-1).

By Rory O'Donnell

July 11 - Senior Hurling: Wexford v Tipperary

Tipperary 2-16 Wexford 1-11

Tipperary secured a fine victory over Wexford in the senior hurling championship on Sunday afternoon. After a tight first half, Tipp put some daylight between themselves and their opponents. Martin Boran at center forward was an important cog in the Tipp machine, while Seamus Hickey at wing back was a persistent thorn in Wexford’s side. Wexford seemed unable to lift their game up a level to match their opponents when it came to crunch time.

Wexford's Peter Ryan is in front for this dropping ball.

The first half was a close run affair, with Tipp holding the slightest of edges at the break. Tipp got off the mark first with a Colin Fennelly point which was answered by Stephen White for Tipp. Center forward Martin Boran and Fennelly extended Tipp’s lead before White notched another for Wexford. Tipp seemed to hold a slight edge and converted three more points. One was a fantastic score from Derek McNicholas who caught under pressure and turned to score from near the sideline. Wexford put their own flurry of scores together, which was marked by a Peter Ryan goal. White cut the Tipp lead in half, and Ryan latched onto the ball close to goal and neatly booted the ball home. All square. White and Tom Moloney then put Wexford ahead with a point each, but back came Tipp. McNicholas put another over the bar, Boran, Seamus Hickey and Cronan Dempsey tallied scores for Tipp before the break. At the half Tipp led by a point.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tipp competed hard in the second half to take the win over their Wexford rivals.
 
Two Tipp goals in the second period sealed the deal. Wexford came out strong with JJ Kenny and Brian Dalton playing well in the back line, Gearoid O’Connor, Ger Fennelly, and White each pointed to put Wexford one to the good. Boran had pointed for Tipp. Following another Boran point to level the scores, the Erin’s Own man hit the back of the net and Tipp led by three. Gearoid O’Connor answered with a lovely strike for a point, but Tipp piled it on for the remainder of the game. Seamus Hickey was in great form at wing back for Tipp and put a fine effort over the bar, and substitute Paul McGrath added another to put Tipp four points ahead. Tipp then scored a fine goal as McGrath fed Boran who passed to the open Shane Bourke, and Bourke found the back of the net. Boran and Bourke added three points between them to finish the game.

Tipp: T. Lowry, M. Heelan, B. Kenny, K. McGrath, K. Joyce, S. Hickey (0-2), C. Dempsey (0-1), M. Gleeson, C. Fennelly (0-2), M. Boran (1-6), S. Bourke (1-2), A. Devine (0-1), D. McNicholas (0-2). Sub, P. McGrath (0-1). Wexford: G. Griffey, S. Prendergast, B. Dalton, D. Redmond, D. Magill, JJ. Kenny, S. White (0-6), D. Lyne, G. O’Connor (0-2), P. Ryan (1-0), G. Fennelly (0-1), T. Moloney, J. Maher.

By Rory O'Donnell

July 11 - Senior Football: Cork v Kerry

Cork 3-4 Kerry 1-12

Kerry came away with a two point win thanks to some accurate free taking from Dubliner, Robbie Croft, and a solid display from the back line. The Kingdom had the upper hand for most of the first half, but had to deal with a resurgent Cork in the second. Cork had Kerry sweating in the final minutes, but the rebels could not find the scoring touch in the dying minutes.

Kerry's Robbie Croft was a handful for Cillian O'Leary Sunday afternoon.

Kerry had the measure of Cork in the first 30 minutes. While Cork seemed hesitant in while in possession, Kerry seemed well aware of the route to goal. Robbie Croft’s place kicking was as reliable as ever, Croft missed just one free in the half. Cork’s back line worked very hard against a Kerry side that came forward in waves. Croft accounted for two points early in the half, however, a goal came for Cork thanks to a free from Shane McCarthy that dropped under the crossbar and Kerry keeper, Bernard O’Connor, misjudged the ball and it dropped into the net. Kerry came back, with Joe McGillicuddy in control at center back and Croft on form at corner forward, Kerry tallied a goal and four points to two points for Cork for the remainder of the half. James O’Sullivan sneaked behind the defence and was found with a well waited pass from Croft to put Kerry back on top. Croft accounted for three more Kerry scores before the half, one a fine sideline effort. At the half Kerry led by four, 1-6 to 1-2.

It was a fight to the end between Cork and Kerry in Canton.


Cork introduced Niall Devlin at corner forward and the Down man’s presence on the field paid immediate dividends. After Aaron Cahilane won the ball in his own back line, Devlin finished the move with a bullet inside the far post. Devlin’s presence added some purpose to Cork’s forays forward. Colin Crowley put Cork’s the best score of the game over the bar as he finished a sweeping upfield move. Croft’s free taking kept Kerry’s noses in front however. Cork’s much improved second half display almost resulted in another goal, but Devlin was unable to get to the end of the last pass across the face of goal. After Sean O’Leary put Kerry four points to the good, Cork struck with a third goal. Richard Murphy was found alone on the edge of the square by Devlin, and the midfielder finished well. Croft put Kerry two points ahead with another well sruck free from distance. Cork had some chances in the final minutes, but were unable to capitalize and Kerry enhance their chances of making the final four.

Cork: J. O’Toole, K. O’Leary, A. Cahilane, A. Mackey, C. Caffrey, J. Foley, S. O’Donoghue, R. Murphy (1-0), A. Aherne (0-1), C. Crowley (0-1), D. O’Callaghan, N. Coakley, S. McCarthy (1-1). Sub,N. Devlin (1-0). Kerry: B. O’Connor, A. Fenton, K. O’Connor, M. Godley, J. McGillicuddy (0-1), S. O’Leary (0-1), D. Coughlan, C. Moriarty, S. Horgan, M. Geaney, J. Molloy, R. Croft (0-10, 5f), J. O’Sullivan (1-0).

By Rory O'Donnell

July 11 - Ladies Senior Football: Boston Shamrocks v Tir na nOg

Shamrocks 3-12 Tir na nÓg 0-7

A blistering performance on a hot day in Canton propelled the Boston Shamrocks to a comprehensive victory over Tir na nÓg in the ladies senior football. The Shamrocks played some good passing football and controlled all but a period of the first half. Charlotte Delaney at corner forward tallied a second half hat trick as the Shamrocks ran out 14 point victors over their Brighton based rivals.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Laurie Ahern gets a shot in despite Jane O'Donoghue's attempt to block.
 
 
The Shamrocks dominated the first 15minutes of the game. In spite of their best efforts, Tir na nÓg could not make any inroads getting the ball past the half way line. After Sinead Fadden and Sarah Maloney each pointed for the Shamrocks, the Dorchester side booted some good chances wide of the posts. After 15 minutes Charlotte Delaney put the Shamrocks three points to no score ahead, but in truth there should have been more points registered for the ladies in green. Tir na nÓg managed to lift the siege in the second 15 minutes of the half. Andrea Bowie made some runs down the wing and Emma Conlon came into the game more. Niamh Coleman and Conlon each pointed, and Laurie Ahern put two nice points over the bar in succession. Delaney responded for the Shamrocks and at the break the sides were level at four points each.

Andrea Bowie makes a foray down the wing for Tir na nOg.

The Shamrocks were too much for their opponents to handle in the second half. Delaney scored a hat trick of goals, one of which had an air of good fortune. After Tir na nÓg put three early chances wide, one of which could have been a goal, the Shamrocks took over the game. Catriona Dolan and Joanne O’Connell dominated the back line, and up front Delaney was on in form. Delaney finished a close range effort, Catriona Treanor pointed, and Delaney’s second goal came after an effort at a point dropped into the net. Treanor put a great individual effort over the bar, and Delaney added her third point of the day. The half was 15 minutes old before the Brighton ladies added a score, and it came from Laurie Ahern. Niamh Coleman put another over from the kickout, but the Shamrocks juggernaut would not be stopped. Delaney finished her hat trick in style with a blast to the far post from 20 yards, while subs Deirdre Kelleher and Ciara Murphy added to the points column. It was a great performance from the Shamrocks and some work will be required on the training field in Brighton if Tir na nÓg are to retain the senior championship.

Shamrocks: K. Rosedale, J. O’Connell, C. Dolan, J. O’Donoghue, A. McDonnell, N. Woods, N. Hurst, E. Burns, M. Kavanagh, J. Sloane, C. Treanor (0-3), S. Maloney (0-1), C. Delaney (3-3), S. Fadden (0-2), T. Doherty. Sub, M. Corrigan (0-2), C. Murphy (0-1). Tir na nÓg: D. Kelleher, L. Gilmore, L. Brick, A. Waters, A. Bowie, A. Kelly, N. Daly, E. Conlon (0-2), L. Nerney, A. Creegan, L. Ahern (0-3), T. Moran, C. Kelly, N. Coleman (0-2), G. Collary.

By Rory O'Donnell