Barley House Wolves win Junior C Hurling, Tir na nOg win Orla Benson Cup

Barley House Wolves 2-6 Portland 1-4

Barley House Wolves Captain Ray Valas.

The storied Barley House Wolves of Concord New Hampshire won the first Junior C Hurling championship held in the Northeast.  The team was formed by a unit of the New Hampshire National Guard following a tour of duty in Afghanistan five years ago.  There were some great performances for the boys from Concord. Denis Trainor pulled off some great saves in goals, and the at the other end the goals came from Rory O’Mahony. Eddie Clements literally came off the plane from Kuwait to line out at center back, and there were strong performances from Darragh Madden, Sean McCarty, and Ryan Brown. 


Tir na nOg 3-14 Boston Shamrocks 1-6

Tir na nOg completed a sweep of trophies in the ladies competiton by winning the Orla Benson Cup on Saturday.  The Boston Shamrocks put up a brave performance but were unable to match their rivals.  The Brighton ladies will be heading to San Francisco to represent the Boston division at Senior Football level and to hopefully bring a championship back to the North East.

Tir na nOg with the Orla Benson Cup.

A big Thank You to Tom Cummings for his support of the Boston GAA. You can catch Tom at WUNR 1600 AM Thursday nights from 8:00 to 10:00pm.

Wolfe Tones win Junior A Championship

Donegal 1-12 Wolfe Tones 2-14

Wolfe Tones won their first junior football championship in seven years on a rainy Saturday afternoon on Canton. As the first downpours of hurricane Irene began to fall the Tones tightened their grip as the game wore on. After a first half where Donegal were fortunate to find themselves on level terms, the Tones made amends for their first half misses shortly following the restart and controlled the second half to comfortably take the title.

The remarkable thing about the first half was that there was so little between the teams by the time 30 minutes were played. The Tones did most of the attacking but Donegal remained in touch thanks to some dogged defending, in particular from Kieran McGee and Barney Friel. Dean Matthews’ free taking kept the scoreboard ticking over for Donegal, while some good fortune shone on the northerners. The Tones were twice through for a goal but only yielded a point for their efforts. After Christy McLaughlin pulled off a great save the Tones won a penalty. Kieran McGee bundled over Mick Sammon in the area but Marty McGeough’s penalty shot was over the bar. Shortly afterwards Mick Sammon had the goal at his mercy only to be put off his shot at the last minute and might have had a claim for a penalty. Donegal finished the half with two fantastic points from Eamonn McCarney to level affairs at the break, six points each.

Wolfe Tones Celebrate the Junior A Championship.

The Tones made up for their first half misses before the second half had a chance to put some time behind it. Sammon goaled emphatically from the throw-in. Declan Kinahan won the ball and played Sammon in, and the veteran finshed well from an angle. Sammon goaled a seond time five minutes later to put those first have misses well in the rearview mirror, and Donegal were very much behind the eight-ball. With the way the game was going, there was not too much encouragement to be found for Donegal supporters that a comeback could be on the cards. There was a brief period of hope when Paul Boyce, Lee Car, and Matthews pulled Donegal within two goals, but the Tones came right back an popped over two themselves, one each from Shane O’Brien and Marty McGeough, to restore the eight point differential. Donegal introduced Brian Kelly with about five minutes to go and might have wondered why they did not do so earlier. The big man was placed on the edge of the box and the first high ball played in resulted in a goal. Kelly won the ball and laid it off to Paul Boyce whose shot flew into the top corner of the net. The Tones were still ahead by four points and played out the clock. The Tones now represent Boston at junior A level for the first time since 2004 in Denver.


Donegal: C. McLaughlin, K. McGee, B. Friel, N. Doherty, D. Nolan, P. McLaughlin, R. Ivers, P. McLaughlin (0-1), E. McCarney (0-2), P. Boyce (1-1), D. Matthews (0-6), L. Carr (0-2), D. Green. Tones: W. O’Dowd, G. Callaghan, A. Rooney, C. Malone, D. Maguire, K. Gorham, P. Collins, D. Kinahan, J. Farrell (0-1), G. Molloy, A. McGeough (0-1), M. Sammon (2-2), M. McGeough (0-9). Sub: S. O’Brien (0-1).


By Rory O'Donnell

McAnespies Take Junior B Championship

Aidan McAnespies 2-10 Galway 1-7


Aidan McAnespies took the junior B championship in convincing style over Galway on Saturday afternoon. After a close first half McAnespies pulled away in the second with some hard work in the back line and an uncanny ability to find the roving Stephen McGettigan when in attack.

Aidan McAnespies Junior B Captain Eoin McCusker
and Boston North East Board Chairman John Farrell.

The sides opened with a point a piece and it remained that way for the first 10 minutes of the game. Galway did most of the attacking, but had little to show for it. There were some badly missed chances from close range. The tribesmen made a breakthrough thanks to the persistence of Peter Ryan. Ryan won the ball on the edge of the box and eventually got a shot off that came off the inside of the post and into the net for a goal. Galway followed with two points, one each from Jamie Kehoe and Tom Moloney. McAnespies finished the half strongly however. Two quick points from Benny McGettigan and Nigel Regan were followed with a goal. It was a well worked score with the ball ending up in the hands of Shane Traynor who picked his moment and finished low into the corner from 14 yards. Scores level. Gary Clarke and Eoin McCusker finished off the first 30 minutes with a point each and McAnespies ahead by two points.


Galway opened the second period with two points, and the sides were on level terms, but that was as good as it got for the Brightonians. McAnespies gradually took control of the game from that point on. The direction of traffic for next 10 minutes of the game was mostly headed towards the Galway goal. Christopher Traynor fought hard in the McAnespies back line, while Gary Clarke, Peadar Nugent, and Stephen McGettigan were involved in some well worked scores. McAnespies second goal came with 15 minutes to go. Nigel Regan found Stephen McGettigan alone on the edge of the box and McGettigan finished on the turn. Peadar Nugent and Regan followed the score with a point each, and McAnespies lead was six points. Galway had a couple of chances at a goal, on each occasion Eugene McKenna was on the spot to make the save. As the game moved into injury time and the rain began to fall Galway were in bad need of a couple of goals to make a comeback. McAnespies fell back to defend and kept the door closed on any hopes of a Galway comeback. It was a delighted captain Eoin McCusker who accepted the trophy and it is onwards to San Fran!

Macs: E. McKenna, O. Guirke, C. Smith, C. Treanor, P. McCusker, T. Tuite, G. Clarke (0-1), W. Carroll (0-1), E. McCusker (0-1), P. Nugent (0-1), S. Traynor (1-3), N. Regan (0-2), J. Taylor. Sub: S. McGettigan (1-1). Galway: M. Hynes, J. Savage, I. Gleeson, G. Bannon, P. Ryan (1-0), JJ O’Neill, A. Moran, P. Hackett (0-1), R. Burns, J. Kehoe (1-2), S. McNulty, T. Moloney (0-3), S. Bannon. Sub: R. Ward (0-1).


By Rory O'Donnell

Wexford Win First Junior Hurling Title

Junior Hurling Final


Fr. Tom Burke’s 0-12 Wexford 1-18

Wexford claimed their first ever junior hurling championship with relative ease on Friday night. The Slaneysiders never looked in danger throughout the 60 minutes and led from start to finish. Eoghan Kavanagh put in a man of the match performance at corner forward, while the Wexford back line held firm against anything the Tom’s could throw at them.

The Wexford Junior Hurlers Celebrate their first junior hurling title.

Wexford lorded it over the first 30 minutes of the game and held a nine-point lead at the break. Eoghan Kavanagh seemed like the unstoppable force at corner forward for Wexford. Kavanagh accounted for seven of Wexford’s first ten points, five of those from play. Wexford also had the measure of their opposing forward line. Tom’s forays forward often fell on barren ground and scores were hard to come by. Points came from John Cuddy 65’s and a great effort from CJ Power, but Tom’s were unable to penetrate the Wexford rearguard with any sustained degree of success. With about 20 minutes gone a goal came for Wexford. A free from well inside the Wexford half went long and into the Tom’s penalty area. The ball managed to avoid contact from boot or stick and ended up rolling into the back of the net. While Tom’s were having no luck, Wexford got the bounce of the ball when it was not needed. Tom’s managed a two well earned points from Eugene Cummins and CJ Power before the break to give themselves some measure of hope going into the second half.

Wexford Captain Peter Nolan is presented with the Cup by
Boston North East Board Chairman John Farrell.

Tom’s made a better first of things in the second half, however, eating into Wexford’s lead proved to be elusive. After Kavanagh extended Wexford’s lead a further two points, Tom’s tallied four points in a row and hopes were raised among the Tom’s faithful that a comeback could be on the cards. It did not materialize however. Wexford were too good and never allowed Tom’s to get closer than seven points. Kavanagh sprang into action again with two more points and Wexford shut up shop at the back. Jamie Kehoe and John Joe O’Neill controlled the middle of the field. Late in the game, with Tom’s needing a couple of goals to have a chance CJ Power created an opening but Matt O’Donnell in goals for Wexford was equal to the shot. A well deserved first for Wexford who can look forward to their first foray at junior level next weekend in San Francisco.

Tom’s: J. O’Halloran, M. Moore, L. Guinan, P. Staunton, C. O’Callaghan, J. Dowling, E. Cummins (0-2), B. Smith (0-1), J. O’Callaghan, C. J. Power (0-2), G. Madden, J. Cuddy (0-7), C. Moore. Sub: J. Dooley (0-1). Wexford: M. O’Donnell, T. Ryan, P. Nolan, D. Brennan, J. Brennan, R. O’Shaughnessy, J. Kehoe (1-3), JJ O’Neill (0-1), C. Keirns (0-1), P. Ryan (0-1), R. Leydon, E. Kavanagh (0-12), B. O’Shea.


By Rory O'Donnell

Galway Win First Senior Hurling Title in 10 Years

Wexford 1-10 Galway 1-11


Galway won their first senior hurling championship since 2001 amid scenes of jubilation. Mid-way through the season it appeared as if Galway were dead and buried, but the tribesmen were there for the last game and came out winners in an exciting and controversial finish. Conditions were less than ideal, but excitement was in no short supply. The game went to and fro, with the lead changing hands on several occasions. Wexford looked like they had the job done as they led by a point in injury time, but Galway dug it out in the end with an equalizing point from an Eoin Guinan free, followed by the winner with virtually the last puck of the game from Fintan O’Leary out on the wing.

Galway Captain Killian Murphy raises the cup.

Wexford got off to the better start. Two Tony Murphy frees and a Cathal Kenny point from play put Wexford into an early three points to no score lead. After Galway got themselves on the scoreboard with an Eoin Guinan free, Wexford goaled. Damien Kilmartin pulled off a great save but conceded a 14-yard free. Murphy took it with singular intent and buried the ball in the back of the net. Galway eventually began to play some good hurling and pulled themselves back into contention. With Kilmartin playing solidly in goal and the back line buckling down, the gap between the sides narrowed. Keith Killilea floated a ball into the box and Guinan fetched it cleanly, turned and billowed the net. The sides matched each other on the scoreboard for the remainder of the half. Wexford led by three points, 1-7 to 1-4.


Galway turned the deficit into a lead soon after the restart with points from Brown, Guinan, and Burke. The game settled into a stalemate where neither side could establish a clear advantage over the other, and with the advance rain from hurricane Irene arriving in Canton, the conditions did not lend themselves to good hurling. Galway enjoyed most of the possession and had Brennan, McCree, and Brown playing well, but the scores did not come for the tribesmen. Galway were guilty of failing to take advantage of the chances that came their way. Having played second fiddle, yet still in the game, Wexford saw that the chance to win it was still there and they grasped it.  Wexford soon leveled the scores and it was game on again. Cathal Kenny and Guinan traded points before Wexford went ahead through Tony Murphy after the Galway back line failed to clear their lines adequately. With time ticking away it increasingly looked as if Wexford would be the ones to inch it over the line.

There was a twist in the tail and a little bit of controversy before all was said and done. After missing a couple of chances late in the game, Eoin Guinan pointed a free from 30 yards to level things. With Wexford on the attack and searching for an opening for the winning score, Galway fought hard to clear their lines. The tribesmen eventually won the ball back and Brennan found O’Leary on the wing and the Corkman pointed from out on the wing to put Galway in the lead. Wexford looked like they might have had one last chance to level the scores. It appeared as if the whistle had gone for a free, but the referee signaled for full time, and with that Galway supporters and players burst into cenebration. The last time Galway won the championship the North American Finals were in San Francisco, and the tribesmen brought home the county championship. Ten years later the Brighton side have a chance to repeat the feat and we wish them the best of luck!

Wexford:  M. O’Donnell, G. Dunphy, G. Callnan, B. Dalton, A. Shore, D. Redmond, S. White, M. Molloy, D. Magill, J. Lyng, T. Murphy (1-3), S. Corcoran (0-4), C. Kenny (0-1).  Galway:  D. Kilmartin, K. Murphy, C. Woods, D. McMahon, A. Brennan, S. Linnane (0-1), N. McCree, G. Burke (0-1), K. Killilea, F. O’Leary (0-2), A. Callnan, S. Brown (0-3), E. Guinan (1-4).

By Rory O'Donnell

McAnespies Senior Football Champions

Connemara Gaels 1-12 Aidan McAnespies 2-15


Aidan McAnespies won the Boston senior football championship for the first time in three years in convincing fashion. The South Boston based side outplayed the Gaels for the duration of the game, and the balance in the McAnespies team served them well. The Gaels hung in for the first half, but a goal early in the second half established a six point lead, and from that point on the eventual champions were in control. The Gaels looked like they had a chance to pull off a comeback late in the second half as the westerners crept within three points, but McAnespies underlined their credentials by responding with three quick points to affirm their dominance.

McAnespies Captain Niall Kerr raises the cup.

McAnespies were off and running from the throw in. Colm McCrory pointed with the first move of the game, finishing in trademark style. Sean Cournane followed with another well taken point before the Gaels opened their account through a Robbie Fox point. McAnespies were full of running in the early going and the Gaels back line had to work hard to contain their opposite numbers. Gary O’Neill, Mark Little, Philip Toner and Colm McCrory opened up the spaces for the running game, spaces that the Gaels back line struggled to close down. The Gaels eventually worked their way into the contest. Brian Connor was the fulcrum for the Gaels in getting the early ball into the corner forwards, however the McAnespies back line were up to the task on most occasions. The Gaels managed to get on the scoreboard, but had to work hard for their rewards. Near the end of the half McAnespies had a great chance to put some daylight between the teams when Sean Cournane escaped his marker and was found all alone on the edge of the box but Brian Joyce pulled off a fantastic diving save to put the ball out for a ’45. At the half McAnespies led by three points, and might have felt that it should have been more.


The closest the Gaels came was immediately after the restart when Paul Conroy pointed a free to make it a two point game. McAnespies then took off in a real way. The cross field ball into O’Donoghue continued to work, once the Kerryman gets the ball into his hands the expectation is that a score will follow, and so it did after Mark Little provided the feed. The intensity level picked up with the hits coming hard and fast, each side looking for the breakthrough. It came for McAnespies after Sean Cournane and O’Donoghue had a two on one and O’Dongohue provided the finish into the net. Conroy pointed a free for the Gaels, but McAnespies hit with a second goal. This time it was a bit fortunate as Joyce made another great save from Courane, but the rebound did not fall kindly for the Gaels goalkeeper and now the difference was eight points heading into the final 15 minutes. The Gaels started to look a little desperate and brought Conroy into a full forward position and played the high ball in. The tactic paid off when Danny Cummins latched on one and goaled. Conroy pointed twice to make it a three point game and a miracle comeback looked possible. McAnespies turned it up however and re-established control with three quick points, two from O’Donoghue and one from Cournane to put any such notions to rest. It was a fully deserved win for McAnespies who ran the table and proved themselves to be ahead of the pack all year. Best of luck in San Francisco to represent the divison.

Aidan McAnespies Celebrate their Senior Football Victory.

Gaels: B. Joyce, L. Wylie, G. Kelly (0-1), B. Murphy, J. Duane, P. McNicholas, P. Conroy (0-6), B. Connor (0-1), S. Conneely, R. Fox (0-1), B. Carroll (0-1), N. Judge (0-1), D. Cummins (1-0). Macs: C. Kendrick, N. Gallen, R. McCloskey, H. Gill, N. Kerr, S. Hughes, G. O’Neill (0-2), P. Kane, C. McCrory (0-1), P. Toner (0-1), M. Little (0-3), P. O’Donoghue (1-4), S. Cournane (1-3). Sub: R. Bracken (0-1). T. Walsh (0-1).


By Rory O'Donnell

Boston Finals Results

The finals were played last Friday and Saturday.

Senior football: Aidan McAnespies 2-15 Connemara Gaels 1-12
Senior Hurling: Galway 1-11 Wexford 1-10
Orlando Benson Cup: Tir na nOg 3-14 Boston Shamrocks 1-6
Junior A Football: Wolfe Tones 2-14 Donegal 1-12
Junior B Football: Aidan McAnespies 1-10 Galway 1-7
Junior Hurling: Wexford 1-18 Fr Tom Burke's 0-12
Junior C Hurling: Barley House Wolves 2-6 Portland 1-4

I apologize that reports are not published. I have had no power since Sunday morning and will put them up as soon as we are back in action.

Boston Finals Brought Forward due to Hurricane Irene

Hurricane Irene is due to hit the Boston area in force Saturday night, Sunday, and Monday.  The finals schedule has had to be brought forward as a result.  All of the finals will be played by Saturday night.  The revised schedule is as follows:

Friday Aug 26
5.30PM JNR Hurling Final:  Fr Tom Burke's v Wexford.

Saturday Aug 27
12:00PM JNR B Football Final:  Aidan McAnespies v Galway


1:30PM JNR A Football Final:  Donegal v Wolfe Tones


3:00PM Senior Hurling Final:  Galway v Wexford


4:30PM Senior Football Final:  Aidan McAnespies -v- Connemara Gaels

Field B.


1:00PM JNR-C Hurling Final:  Portland v Barley House Wolves


2:30PM Orla Benson Cup Final:  Boston Shamrocks -v- Tir na Nog

Semi-Finals Score and Finals Schedule

Semi-Finals Scoreboard

Junior Hurling
Fr. Tom Burke’s 2-13 Galway 0-7


Junior B Football
Aidan McAnespies 3-15 Armagh-Notre Dame 2-2
Galway 3-12 Mayo 2-5


Junior A Football
Aidan McAnespies Wolfe Tones
Donegal 1-10 Shannon Blues 1-4


Senior Football
Connemara Gaels 2-15 Galway 2-13
Aidan McAnespies 1-15 Christopher’s 1-13


Senior Hurling
Galway 1-25 Tipperary 3-17

Finals Schedule

Saturday August 27
2:30 Junior B Football: Aidan McAnespies v Galway
4:00 Junior Hurling: Wexford v Fr. Tom Burke’s
5:30 Junior A Football: Donegal v Wolfe Tones

Sunday August 28
1:00 Orla Benson Cup: Tir na nOg v Boston Shamrocks
2:30 Senior Hurling: Galway v Wexford
4:00 Senior Football: Aidan McAnespies v Connemara Gaels

Sun Aug 21 - Senior Hurling S/F: Galway v Tipperary

Galway 1-25 Tipperary 3-17


Galway and Tipp played an absorbing 60 minutes of hurling in the championship semi-final Sunday afternoon. Galway ended up deserving winners having played possibly the best hour of hurling that I have seen from them so far this year. Tipperary could have stolen the game in what was set up to be a dramatic finish. Two very late goals almost turned the tables on their opponents, but Galway also had a goal in them at the death and deservedly will be in next weekend’s final.

Galway's Fintan O'Leary shoots for goal.

It was even steven in the first period with neither side managing to establish an advantage over the other. Galway held the edge in scoring. Tipperary relied on a goal from Mark Flaherty to keep in touch with Galway who played with a little more urgency and sharpness than their opposite numbers. Fintan O’Leary was in good form for Galway. The tribesmen made a novel move of putting Andrew Brennan, who normally plays at center back, into the center forward position. Galway’s scores were spread around between forwards O’Leary, Guinan, Callnan, and Brown as well as McCree in midfield. Tipperary might not have enjoyed as much in terms of possession, but on occasion penetrated the Galway back line and generated goal chances. On one such occasion Mark Flaherty expertly popped the ball over the advancing keeper’s head and into the back of the net. At the break Galway led by a score of 0-12 to 1-7.

The teams traded three points each to start the second half. Galway got a lot of work out of McCree in midfield, as well as Brennan, Guinan, and O’Leary. The tribesmen put some daylight between themselves and the opposition. Points from Guinan, O’Leary, Brown and McCree put Galway up by four. Meanwhile Conor Woods was having a great game at wing back for Galway. Tipperary were not about to concede and with the last few minutes of the game approaching, hit with a goal from poacher Paul McGrath. Galway came right back and restored the lead with a goal of their own from Eoin Guinan. Keith Killilea played a cross-field ball and Guinan blasted the ball past the keeper from inside the box. If Galway felt comfortable they had to think again as Tipp scored a third goal and reined in the lead yet again. This time it was Stephen Lambert who billowed the net. Galway worries were allayed somewhat after Paul Guinan put an insurance point over the bar just before the final whistle. Galway back in the final and this time against local Brighton rivals, Wexford.

Galway:  D. Kilmartin, K. Murphy, M. Malone, C. Woods, A. Brennan, S. Lennane, N. Macree, D. McMahon, E. Guinan, F. O’Leary, A. Callnan, S. Brown, G. Burke.  Tipp:  S. Delaney, J. Fitzpatrick, J. Kindregan, A. McRedmond, C. Leahy, B. Howley, E. Hayes, P. Fanning, E. Kent, W. Walsh, P. McGrath, M. Flaherty, B. Hartnett.

By Rory O'Donnell

Sun Aug 21 - Senior Football Semi-Final: Christopher's v Aidan McAnespies

Aidan McAnespies 1-15 Christopher’s 1-13


It was a game of two halves between Aidan McAnespies and Christopher’s. McAnespies looked unstoppable in the first half and the game seemed over as a contest at the half time break. Christopher’s came back in the second half and pushed McAnespies all the way to the finish line as their opponents seemed to have played all of their football in the first. McAnespies had done enough however, though if it was not for the post and a great Ciaran Kendrick save, things could have turned out very differently.

Gary O'Neill on the way to scoring his first half goal.

Aidan McAnespies went into the game hot favourites and went about the business of getting past Christopher’s and into the final right from the beginning. At times McAnespies scythed through the Christopher’s defence with their fine-tuned passing machine. By the time the game was 15 minutes old McAnespies had established a 1-5 to 0-1 lead. The goal came from Gary O’Neill who made his way along the endline and finished left footed into the rook of the net. The Macs were running and gunning. Christopher’s managed to get some traction and put some scores together. Aidan Walsh, Francis Usanga, and Adrian Greaney each pointed. McAnespies took over again and between Sean Cournane and Paul O’Donoghue fired over four points.



Sean Cournane is stopped by Eoin O'Neill.



The second half was a total contrast to the first in terms of the balance of play and excitement level. Dan Kenneally entered the fray in the second half, and Adrian Greaney in the full forward line lifted his game and Christopher’s fortunes immediately changed. McAnespies second half play was also a total contrast from their first half performance. Christopher’s opened the second half with a goal. Adrian Greaney was fouled on the edge of the box and took a quick free to Colm O’Driscoll who netted. Christopher’s then proceeded to inch their way back into the game. Shane Beston and O’Driscoll brought Christopher’s within three points. McAnespies seemed to have dropped their intensity, while Christopher’s picked up theirs. Adrian Greaney pulled off a point from sheer strength, and soon afterwards Shane Beston hit the post from an angle. It was a major turnaround from the one sided affair that was the first half. The sides continued to trade scores and Christopher’s were almost in for a goal again only for Kieran Kendrick to pull off a fine save from O’Driscoll. McAnespies took advantage of a turnover in midfield and won a penalty when Paul O’Donoghue was pulled down by Noel Ryan. O’Donoghue opted for the point since time was almost up. Christopher’s had a last kick of the game 21-yard free that O’Driscoll drove low, but not low enough and McAnespies will go on to face the Gaels in next week’s final.

Macs: C. Kendrick, N. Gallen, R. McCloskey (0-1), H. Gill, N. Kerr, S. Hughes (0-1), G. O’Neill (1-0), P. Kane, M. Little, P. Toner (0-1), S. Cournane (0-2), C. McCrory (0-2), P. O’Donoghue (0-6). Christopher’s: S. Kelly, N. Ryan, S. McNally, P. Kenneally, E. O’Neill, C. Nolan, K. O’Driscoll, A. Walsh (0-2), J. Kenneally, C. O’Driscoll (1-5), F. Usanga (0-1), S. Beston (0-4), A. Greaney (0-2).

By Rory O'Donnell

Sun Aug 21 - Senior Football S/F: Connemara Gaels v Galway

Connemara Gaels 1-15 Galway 1-13 (AET)


Galway and the Gaels served up fantastic fare for the first of the senior football semi-finals. There were penalties, goals, last minute comebacks, near misses, red cards, and extra time. The Gaels looked like they would blow Galway away in the early going, but Galway came back and took a late lead. As time ticked away two last gasp points from the Gaels forced extra time. The Gaels prevailed in the extra period, but it could as easily have been Galway. Gearoid O’Connor was through on goal in the dying minutes and had a great chance to pull off the win, but the ball slipped wide of the far post.



The Connemara Gaels were pushed all the way by Galway on Sunday.

 The Gaels swept through the Galway back line in the early going. Brian Connor, Robbie Fox, and Danny Cummins were on the mark. It took Galway some time to get into the game, nerves may have had something to do with it. Kevin Cummins’ first free was uncharacteristically mis-hit. Galway’s attacks were few and far between. However, Once the westerners got into the game the forward line showed what they are capable of. There were beautiful scores from James Carroll, Kevin Cummins, and David Kelly. The pace at which the Gaels opened the game could not be maintained, and things settled down to the point where Galway held a slight edge. The Gaels won a penalty in the latter stages of the half after Niall Judge was brought down in the area. Paul Conroy stepped up to take it and made shot to the keeper’s left. The goal was much needed from the Gaels perspective as Galway had made serious inroads into the lead. At the half the Gaels led by four points, 1-7 to 0-6.


The Galway back line stepped it up in the second half, the Gaels half forward line had a hard time trying to get any change out of their markers. The first three points of the second half went to Galway, two were lovely efforts from James Carroll. The Gaels brought Danny Cummins deeper and introduced Tommy Walsh in an effort to revive a flagging forward line. Kevin Cummins first leveled the scores and then put a close range free over the bar to put Galway ahead. With the Gaels midfield out of it and Galway in the ascendancy, things were then truly turned on end when Galway won a penalty. Cummins was pulled down in the area and took the penalty himself. The ball ended up in the back of the net and Galway led by four points. The Gaels pulled back to within two points thanks for frees from John Molloy and Paul Conroy. With less than 5 minutes left every ball was of utmost importance. Tommy Walsh did great work for the Gaels in the middle of the field winning or breaking ball, and the Gaels revived their efforts in the latter stages. Gavin Joyce and Gordon Kelly each pointed before the final whistle to force extra time with the scores tied at 1-12 a piece.

Two tired teams took the field for the extra period and it was as tight as the game. Each side lost a man before the extra time break. The Gaels lost Liam Wylie for a second yellow card as he fouled the speedy David Kelly one too many times. For Galway it was Anton McFadden who saw the red card. The Gaels opened a two-point lead down a man, and before the break Cummins pointed a free for Galway. Tommy Walsh added to the Gaels lead in the second period of added time. Gearoid O’Connor made a run and was through on goal only to shoot low and wide of the posts when a goal seemed imminent. Galway pushed hard for a goal which would win the game, but the Gaels played held out in defence to hold on and make it through to the final.

Gaels:  B. Joyce, L. Wylie, G. Kelly (0-1), B. Murphy, J. Duane, P. McNicholas, B. Connor (0-2), P. Conroy (1-4), S. Connelly, R. Fox (0-1), B. Carroll, N. Judge, D. Cummins (0-2).  Subs: T. Walsh (0-2), J. Molloy (0-2), G. Joyce (0-1)...  Galway:  P. McComiskey, G. Dunphy, D. Walsh, S. Gallagher, A. McFadden, J. Kehoe, A. Shore, E. Kavanagh, G. O’Connor, D. Kelly (0-1), D. Redden, K. Cummins (1-8), J. Carroll (0-4).

By Rory O'Donnell

Sun Aug 21 - Junior A Football Semi-Final: Donegal v Shannon Blues

Shannon Blues 1-4 Donegal 1-10


Donegal prevailed in a lack-lustre game where there was not a lot to enjoy in the way of flowing football or scoring. Conditions were hot and humid which did not help matters. Donegal were always ahead in the game. A goal from the Blues kept them in it in the first half, but in the second Donegal pulled ahead with a string of early scores and the Blues could not find their way back into it.

Donegal's Derek Nolan and The Blues Pat Murray contest.

The first half was a stop-start affair with the referees whistle sounding frequently. The net billowed once at each end. Leading by two points, Dan Green hit the back of the net for Donegal to put them in an early commanding position. There was almost a second for the northerners soon afterwards, but Alan Garry stretched out his left arm to save well from close range. The Blues got themselves back into contention during the latter stages of the second half. Budding star Conor Fitzgerald picked up a loose ball played across the face of the goal by Ken Kileen. Fizgerald shot low and hard and the Blues were back in the picture. Gary Henry followed with two points, one from play and another from a free. At the mid-way point the Donegal led by a score of 1-4 to 1-2.

Dean Matthews was the marksman for Donegal following the restart. The Donegal number eleven put three points on the trot over the bar, two from frees. Derrick Nolan at center back and Padraig McLaughlin in midfield kept played the ball well into their forward line, while the Blues struggled to get much going in their direction. The Blues had a couple of chances at reducing the deficit with a goal, but on each occasion the shot was directly at Christy McLaughlin in goal for Donegal. Substitute Kevin Coyle solidified Donegal’s second half advantage with a couple of lovely points and the chances of the Blues pulling off an upset faded. Donegal will now meet Wolfe Tones in the final next week following a rather unconvincing win.


Blues:  A. Garry, M. Green, P. Moriarty, T. Hernon, N. Murray, B. Driscoll, P. Murray, G. Walsh, K. O’Sullivan, C. Fitzgerald (1-0), M. Keegan, G. Henry (0-4), K. Kileen.  Donegal:  C. McLoughlin, K. McGee, B. Friel, N. McLaughlin, D. Nolan, P. Wanish McLaughlin (0-1), A. McGirr, P. McLaughlin, E. McCarney, P. Boyce (0-2), D. Matthews (0-5), L. Carr, D. Green (1-0).  Sub:  K. Coyle (0-2).
 
By Rory O'Donnell

Sat Aug 20 - Junior A Football S/F: Wolfe Tones v Aidan McAnespies

Aidan McAnespies 1-11 Wolfe Tones 1-12

Old rivals, Aidan McAnespies and Wolfe Tones met in the first of the Junior A Football semi-finals over the weekend. The Tones looked comfortably in charge for most of the game, especially after Ger Molloy goaled early in the second half. McAnespies launched a late charge to draw level with minutes left and the sides fought for the breakthrough to get the winning score. In the end it was Tones substitute Dara Bonfil who put the final point over the bar in the final minute.

Wolfe Tones Junior A's will face Donegal next week.

A goal from Neil Donaghy kept McAnespies in touch with their free-flowing opponents in the first half. The Tones tallied nine points, some of them well taken efforts from difficult angles. Joey Farrell and Kevin Gorham got the pick of the scores from the Tones. Declan Kinahan played a lovely ball to Farrell on the run and Farrell curled over from 30 yards. Gorham pointed on the run from a tight angle towards the end of the half – another lovely effort. When in possession the Tones moved the ball well, especially through Kinahan in the middle of the field. McAnespies also notched some great efforts. The first two came as a result of some great interlinking play, Steven Magill getting the first and Steven McAleer the second. With the Tones pulling away McAnespies hit with a goal that might have been a tad fortunate. Magill played a low ball across the box to Neil Donaghy and Donaghy apperared to be making an effort to curl the ball over the bar, but it ended up looping into the corner of the net. The Tones continued to pick off the points and at the break led by a score of 1-5 to 0-9.

McAnespies continued to try hitting Donaghy who was playing at full forward to generate openings while in contast, the Tones running style served them well. After Joey Farrell pointed to get the second period going, Ger Molloy picked up on a loose ball and blasted home from inside the 14. The Tones maintained their advantage over the ensuing period, but would find themselves reined in by their opponents. McAnespies put four points together without reply. It started with Steven McAleer followed by three Steven Magill frees. McAnespies were on top now and were urged on by their supporters to go for the win and join their junior B’s in a final next weekend. However, the Tones gathered themselves to make one last effort. Molloy found Shane O’Brien who in turn passed to subsitiute Dara Bonfil coming down the middle, and Bonfil put a perfect shot over the bar. As McAnespies tried to come back again for the equalizer, the Tones shut up shop and kept them at bay until the final whistle. A narrow win on the scoreboard, but a deserved win for the Tones. Donegal await in next Saturday’s final.

Macs: N. Duffy, J. Harkin, N. Gallen, C. Traynor, C. Dempsey, N. Hassey, S. Lynn, G. Hennessey, S. McAleer, P. Stones, S. Magill, O. McCusker, N. Donaghy. Tones: W. O’Dowd, C. O’Callaghan, A. Rooney, C. Malone, D. Maguire, K. Gorham (0-1), P. Collins, D. Kinahan (0-1), J. Farrell (0-2), G. Molloy (1-2), A. McGeough (0-1), M. Sammon (0-1), M. McGeough (0-3). Sub: D. Bonfil (0-1).


By Rory O'Donnell

Report from last weekend on Gaelic Sportscast

Galway footballers impress, hurlers also into Boston semis

Semi-Finals Schedule

In Wednesday nights playoffs, Galway senior hurlers defeated Fr. Tom Burke's and Shannon Blues Junior Footballers defeated the Gaels.  Schedule below.

Saturday Aug 20
Field A

4:00 Junior Hurling: Galway v Fr. Tom Burke's

5:30 Junior A Football: Aidan McAnespies v Wolfe Tones



Field B

3:30 Junior B Football: Aidan McAnespies v Armagh-Notre Dame

5:00 Junior B Football: Mayo v Galway



Sunday Aug 21

12:00 Junior A Football: Donegal v Shannon Blues

1:30 Senior Football: Galway v Connemara Gaels

3:00 Senior Hurling: Tipperary v Galway

4:30 Senior Football: Aidan McAnespies v Christopher's

Sunday August 15 - Senior Football Q/F: Wolfe Tones v Christopher's

Christopher’s 1-11 Wolfe Tones 1-10


The rain that was forecast for the afternoon began to make an appearance for the Christopher’s versus Wolfe Tones quarter final. Each side was without a key player in their forward lines. Christopher’s were missing Eric Hegarty and for the Tones it was James Doyle. The teams could not be separated until the very end when substitute Dan Kenneally put the winning point over the bar to rousing cheers from the Christopher’s supporters.

The Tones Luke Kavanagh and Christopher's Jerry Kenneally.

Christopher’s got off the mark with an Aidan Walsh point. A goal from Pat Delaney soon followed. Paudie Kenneally’s ’45 came off the upright and Delaney was first to it to bury the ball into the net. The Tones took some time to get into the game. When they finally did Dan McCabe got them off the mark with a well taken point. Sean Kelly followed with a second, and for a period the Tones enjoyed the upper hand. The game settled down into a heavyweight type bout, each team sometimes labored to move the ball with any flow. Points were swapped along the way, the pick of which was a well worked score finished by CJ Power for the Tones. At the break the early Christopher’s goal separated the teams, 1-5 to 0-5.

Christopher's Aidan Walsh and Luke Kavanagh (again).

The second half was highlighted for four sendings off all centered around the same incident. Colm O’Driscoll pointed a beautiful sideline kick and reacted to what must have been some attempts to put his concentration off after the score. Some of the Tones players took offence and a brawl broke out. Two players from each side were sent off, O’Driscoll himself and Pat Delaney on the Christopher’s side, for the Tones it was Gary Brilly and Eoin Murray. The Tones had reduced the deficit to a point before the score and afterwards the sides traded points as it was anybody’s game. The Tones took the lead through a Sean Kelly goal with minutes left on the clock. Kelly had just blazed wide from a similar situation a few minutes earlier, but the second chance was on the money. Christopher’s now had it all to do with minutes left on the clock, Beston and Kevin O’Driscoll pointed. With the sides now level it was anybody’s to win, and it turned out to be Christopher’s who advance to the semi-final next week against McAnespies thanks yto the left boot of Dan Kenneally.

Christopher’s: S. Kelly, N. Ryan, S. McNall, P. Kenneally (0-1), E. O’Neill, R. Holmes, A. Walsh (0-1), P. Delaney (1-0), J. Kenneally, C. O’Driscoll (0-4), K. O’Driscoll (0-1), S. Beston (0-3), F. Usanga. Subs: D. Kenneally (0-1). Tones: B. Murray, K. Regan, E. Naughton, D. Maguire, E. Murray, G. Brilly, C. McCarthy, L. Kavanagh, B. Blanchfield, M. Farrell (0-1), S. Kelly (1-2), D. McCabe (0-3), CJ Power (0-3).


By Rory O'Donnell

Sunday August 14: Senior Hurling - Galway v Fr. Tom Burke's

Galway 1-19 Fr. Tom Burke’s 0-20


Galway forced a playoff with a two point win over Fr. Tom’s in an eagerly contested encounter. Tom’s took the initiative in the early going but once Galway broke the ice with a Fintan O’Leary goal the tribesmen kicked into gear. Galway absorbed a loss in personnel with 10 minutes left on the clock as John Moylan was sent off, but edged out their opponents in a tight finish.



The Galway Hurling Squad:  Galway forced a playoff against Tom's Wednesday night.

 Tom’s got off to a great start with six points on the trot. Shane Howley and Camin Morey were first on the scoresheet, soon to be followed by goalkeeper John Grealish who came up to take two long range frees. After Galway hit a couple of wides, Tom’s again went on a scoring spurt, and almost goaled through the “on-fire” Morey. Morey tried to tap the ball over the keeper’s head but ended up hitting the crossbar. Things did not look good for Galway at that point, but the Brighton side were soon back in it. Things got started for the tribesmen with a Fintan O’Leary goal, John Moylan provided the assist. Eoin Guinan followed with a point and the momentum swung. Now it was Galway clearing their lines and seemingly unable to miss. O’Leary put three over the bar, as did Eoin Guinan and Galway now had the upper hand over their rivals. At the break it was Galway by two points, 1-8 to 0-9.


Tom’s drew level soon after the restart with two points from Morey, and Galway counterpart at center forward, Finan O’Leary restored Galway’s lead. Both front line commanders were playing well. The sides continued to trade scores as the game was finely balanced. With Galway ahead by a point John Moylan was given his marching orders for an off the ball incident. Playing down a man Galway added to their lead through Guinan and O’Leary, their two predominant marksmen. Tommy O’Brien was omnipresent for Tom’s in their efforts to come back into the game and put a couple of impressive scores over the bar, but between them Guinan and O’Leary kept Galway’s noses in front. With the game in injury time Tom’s drew within a point and each dropping ball was met with anticipation from the crowd. Galway however got an insurance point thanks to a Guinan free and we have a mid-week playoff to look forward to see who makes the semi-final.


Galway: D. Kilmartin, K. Murphy, M. Malone, C. Woods, A. Brennan, S. Linnane, N. McCree, D. McMahon, K. Killilea, F. O’Leary (1-7), E. Guinan (0-9), J. Moylan (0-3), S. Brown. Tom’s: J. Grealish (0-2), E. Glynn, S. O’Brien, S. Higgins, D. Moore, B. Harding, A. Collier, G. Hennelly (0-3), S. Howley (0-1), C. Morey (0-10), C. McDonald, T. O’Brien (0-4), S. Coen.


By Rory O'Donnell

Sunday August 14 - Senior Football Q/F: Donegal v Galway

Donegal 2-13 Galway 1-20


The first quarter final of the day between Galway and Donegal was a real humdinger of an affair, a game in which all five of Galway’s forwards scored multiple times. The sides could not be separated at the end of a tense and exciting first half, and the first playoff game of the season went into additional minutes. It was close for most of the extra period but with just over 5 minutes to go James Carroll broke the deadlock with a fantastically taken goal that saw Galway through to their first senior football semi-final in over 20 years.

Donegal's Mark Molloy and Galway's James Carroll tussle.

The first half of the game belonged to Galway in terms of play, but not on the scoreboard. The westerners played some periods of slick passing football and tallied six points after conceding an unfortunate early goal. Donegal’s Collie Carr lined up a free from near the sideline. The shot was low and slipped through the hands of Eoghan Kavanagh into the net. Galway did not let the early setback unsettle them. Donegal were forced to foul on several occasions as the speedy Galway forwards threatened on several occasions. Galway’s Kevin Cummins capitalized with some well struck points. Points were also sent over the bar from James Carroll, Danny Reddin and David Kelly. With Galway looking like taking the break with a well earned lead, the tables turned. Following two late points from the northerners a second goal came after the ball was bundled over the line from close range. At the half Donegal held a lead of three points.

Danny McBride in action.

Galway wasted no time catching up after the break with scores from Carroll, Cummins, and Reddin. Donegal played better football in the second half however, and regained the initiative. Carr pointed twice and was followed by a 45 from Brian White. Given the back and forth nature of the game, back came Galway with three points on the trot. The scoring followed an uncanny sequence as Donegal again strung three points together only for Galway to match it with three of their own in an exciting final 10 minutes. Each side had chances to score to win the game down the stretch. Galway looked to have had a case for a penalty right at the end of normal time after Cummins looked to have been tripped, but referee John Fitzpatrick felt otherwise. The first knockout game of the season, and we had overtime.


At the end of the first period of extra time there Galway led by two points. Donegal opened the second period with a point and it began to look as if we might be in for another tight finish until Carroll changed all that with a well taken goal. Carroll turned his man and aimed the shot well giving the keeper no chance. Donegal could not recover from the setback and Galway joy was evident in the stands as the club reaches its first semi-final two decades where they meet western rivals, Connemara Gaels.

Donegal: L. Mailey, N. Byrne, M. Canning, D. McBride (0-1), T. Caldwell, P. O’Connor, D. McNulty, B. White (1-3), K. Curran, E. Doonan, E. Sheehy (0-2), C. Carr (1-3), J. Doherty. Galway: P. McComiskey, G. Dunphy, D. Walsh, J. Kehoe, A. McFadden, S. Gallagher, A. Shore, E. Kavanagh, G. O’Connor (0-2), K. Cummins (0-8), D. Reddin (0-2), J. Carroll (1-6), D. Kelly (0-2).


By Rory O'Donnell

August 13 - Senior Hurling: Wexford v Tipperary

Tipperary 3-15 Wexford 2-9

Tipperary pulled off somewhat of a surprise victory over Wexford on Saturday. Tipp limited Wexford to just two points in the first half of the game, and tallied a goal and nine points in their row of the scoreboard. Tipp wing forward, Emmet Kent, himself a Wexford U-21 player, tore into the Wexford defence and Tipp ran away nine point winners in the end.

Paddy Fanning for Tipp.

Wexford did themselves no favours in the first half by hitting many shots well wide of the mark. The first score for the Slaneymen did not come until the game was 18 minutes old. At one stage Tony Murphy had a great chance at a goal, but Sean Delaney pulled off a fine save. Tipp opened the game with a goal from Paul McGrath. Walter Walsh bulled into the penalty area and after a deflection the ball popped to the waiting McGrath who finished in style. Tipp were keeping things ticking over with points from Kent, Brian Hartnett, and Mark Flaherty. Cathal Kenny got the Wexford men’s first score of the game, but unfortunately for Wexford it did not kick start the machine. Kent put two frees over the bar, and after a rare accurate shot from Andrew Shore for Wexford, Tipp finished the half with four points on the trot.

Stephen White on the attack for Wexford.

Wexford opened the second half strongly. After hitting two points Shore buried a 21-yard free in the back of the net and Wexford had reason to be optimistic. It did not pan out for the Brighton men however. From the puckout Eoin Hayes made a dashing run and when in range let fly. Griffey got the bas to the ball but could only deflect it into the net. After three more Tipp scores Wexford staged a last gasp effort at coming back and strung four points together. That only brought them within seven points with time left on the clock. Tipp put the issue to rest however with a third goal from Lambert. All that was left was for Kenny to put a late consolation goal away for Wexford. The result puts Tipp and Wexford on level points at the top of the table. A draw will be made to decide who advances to the final and who must contest what will likely be a tough semi-final with either Galway or Fr. Tom Burke’s.

Tipp: S. Delaney, J. Fitzpatrick, J. Kindregan, A. McRedmond, C. Leahy, B. Howley, E. Hayes (1-0), P. Fanning, E. Kent (0-10), W. Walsh, P. McGrath (1-0), M. Flaherty (0-2), B. Hartnett (0-1). Subs: S. Lambert (1-0), Dara O’Connell (0-1). Wexford: G. Griffey, G. Dunphy, G. Callnan, S. White, J. Lyng, B. Dalton, M. Molloy, G. O’Connor, B. Dowling (0-2), A. Shore (1-3), J. Hetherton, T. Murphy, C. Kenny (1-1). Sub: G. Molloy (0-1), S. Corcoran (0-1).


By Rory O'Donnell

Schedule and Junior Football Tables Aug 12

There have been some changes to this weekend's schedule due to the anticipated rain that is due late on Sunday. There are 2 senior football quarter finals Sunday.  The first is between Donegal and Galway.  Galway have bounced back from a tough start to the season to finish in the top 6 and now have an excellent chance to progress to the semi-finals the following weekend.  This would be the first time a Galway football team has made the Senior Football semis in over 20 years.  Donegal have been inconsistent thus far and have had a tough season given their success over the last decade.  Driven by their midfield and fast forward line, Galway are my favourite to win.  The other quarter final features Christopher's and Wolfe Tones.  This is a tough call.  At full strength Christopher's are capable of beating anybody, and they will most likely be at full strength on Sunday.  The Tones can turn it on when they put their minds to it, but have not always rasied their game.  I see a close game that could go either way.

There are 2 senior hurling games to complete the season.  Saturday Wexford play Tipperary.  Tipp defeated Tom's easily to go joint second in the table, while Wexford are still top.  I see Wexford locking down their top placing and bye into the final as the Brighton based team has impressive depth and talent.  Tom's and Galway meet Sunday afternoon in what promises to be a real humdinger.  Galway have to win to force a playoff with either Tom's or Tipp, and a Tom's win guarantees that Galway's season will be over.  Hard to call but I am going with Galway to win and force a mid-week playoff for the semi-final spot.

Of course there is the Intermediate Final also on Sunday between Shannon Blues and Mayo.  Mayo have done well this year, while the Blues will be disappointed not to have made the playoffs.  Given Mayo's momentum I will not be surprised to see the westerners get something out of a season that has seen them rebound from several years at the lower end.

On the junior front Donegal and Wolfe Tones have their semi-final places booked, while the Gaels will be hoping that McAnespies will beat the Blues and force a chance for a playoff game against those Blues provided that the Gaels take care of business against the New Englans Celtics.  A possible midweek fixture to schedule there as well.  Junior B sees the big game between Donegal and Armagh-Notre Dame with the winners likely to join Mcanespies, Mayo, and Galway in the semi-final round.


Boston GAA Schedule


Saturday August 13


Field A

3:00 Junior Hurling: Tipperary v Fr. Tom Burke’s

5:30 Senior Hurling: Wexford v Tipperary


Field B

4:15 Junior A Football: Aidan McAnespies v Shannon Blues

5:30 Junior B Football: Donegal v Armagh-Notre Dame

Sunday August 14


Field A

12:30 Senior Football Quarter Final: Donegal v Galway

2:00 Senior Hurling: Fr. Tom Burke’s v Galway

3:30 Senior Football Quarter Final: Wolfe Tones v Christopher’s


Field B


12:00 Junior A Football: Connemara Gaels v New England Celtics

1:15 Intermediate Football Final: Mayo v Shannon Blues
3:00 Junior B Football:  Hartford v Galway

CYC a Rousing Success

By Rory O'Donnell

The 2011 CYC, the largest to date in the brief seven-year history of the competition, was a huge success. A massive amount of work went into preparing the venue. Volunteers worked weekends, nights, and, in some cases, days to ensure that the venue was looking the part. The ICC looked excellent from the fresh mulch in the parking lots to the roped of fields that were meticulously lined, and the goalposts that received fresh coats of paint. The flags of all 32 counties of Ireland fluttered in the breeze behind the goal at the clubhouse end, which was a nice backdrop to the events on the main field. Dressing rooms were set up for each field and along with the water stations in place, volunteers had their assignments, and everything was set to go. With more than 80 games to play on each of the 4 days it was impressive how the event went like clockwork. There were no delays or backups with the schedule. Games began on time with the next group of kids ready to go for the following game as everyone participating starting with parents, teams, referees, and field officials adhered to the hectic schedule.

Underage teams from all over North America competed over 4 days. Thousands of kids from Under 6 to Under 18 participated in what is the largest gaelic games event of it’s kind outside of Ireland. A significant development was the prominence of hurling and camogie during the weekend. Both sports were played at all age groups and the kids enthusiastically took up the sticks. Many of the kids displayed a high skill level in the ancient code. San Francisco in particular shone in the hurling competitions.

The big game of the weekend was the county minor football final, which was played on Friday between New York and Lancashire from England. The North American minors narrowly missed out on making the final. Lancashire prevailed in a very exciting one-point victory over New York, 2-8 to 0-13 to scenes of jubilation from the lads who traveled across the water to be there. New York teams traveled in force. The NY Celtics, St. Barnabas, Rockland, NY Rangers, and Shannon Rangers fielded teams at all age levels. Indeed there was tremendous atmosphere at all age levels with parents and relatives cheering on their children’s teams with the gusto of All-Ireland fare.

On the local front there were many of the new clubs from the Northeast involved. Trinity Milton, Na Fianna from Brighton/Allston, Wayland, Acton, Hartford, John Boyle O’ Reilly’s from Springfield, and St. Brendan’s Dorchester entered teams along with the well established Irish Sports Youth League, themselves based in Canton. There were three days of glorious sunshine and on the finals day the rains came down, but did not dampen the spirits of the players and parents involved. My own kids are outside all day long now hitting balls with the hurleys and practicing their Gaelic Football skills! There were winners and losers on the field but at the end of the day the biggest winners were Gaelic sports. With so many youngsters coming away with a love for the games of Gaelic Football, Hurling, and Camogie the future looks very bright indeed.

A skilled youngster with the Boston U8s.



Trinity Milton's Declan Walsh U8.



This U14 from San Fran can play the old code.

The youngsters of Trinity Milton Youth GFC.

The ISYL Boston girls versus Rockland NY.



The ISYL Boston U8 Hurlers.