Senior Football: Connemara Gaels v Christopher's - August 15

Connemara Gaels 0-12 Christopher’s 1-15


Christopher’s booked their place in the semi-finals with a comprehensive win over the Connemara Gaels. Christopher’s started with a bang. Jerry Kenneally goaled inside the first minute of play and from that point on the Gaels were chasing the game. Early in the second half the Gaels looked like making a game of it, but Christopher’s closed up shop, not allowing the Gaels a much needed goal and maintaining the six-point gap between the teams until the final whistle.

Christopher's Cillian Brosnan and the Gael's Sean Conneely challenge for the ball.

Christopher’s got off to the best possible start. Right from the throw in Jerry Kenneally was found on the edge of the small square to blast the ball into the roof of the net from close range. Sean Conneely replied for the Gaels with a point, however, Christopher’s had a decide edge. Christopher’s worked well for each other and the ball was well played into the corner forwards . The Gaels ball movement was not as tight. Coming out of defence there were some sloppy passes, and getting the ball into the dangermen was not as easy for the westerners. Christopher’s outscored the Gaels six points to two up to the 25th minute. The scoring was well spread. Cathal McNally, Eoin McCarthy, Sean O’Hare, Alan Maloney, and Sean Kelly had a share in the spoils for Christopher’s, while James Donnelly and Martin Coady pointed for the Gaels. Late in the half Jerry Kenneally almost had another goal, but on this occasion Bernard Power stood his ground and was equal to the shot. The sides traded scores as the half wound down, with Christopher’s six points ahead by a score of 0-5 to 1-8.

Martin Coady gets away from Ciaran McDonald.

The Gaels opened the second half brightly. Pearce Clancy was found on the run clean through and his shot cleared the crossbar by inches. Michael Lundy finished another nicely worked effort, to reduce the deficit to four points. Christopher’s set about restoring their lead, McNally put a lovely point from play over the bar, followed by a free. Eoin McCarthy then extended the lead with another point. The Gaels could not rein Christopher’s back within reach. The Connemara men worked hard to find openings in the opposition defence, but Christopher’s did a good job of closing down the spaces. The sides traded scores and after Martin Coady pointed a free the difference between the sides was unchanged from half-time, and less than three minutes remained. The Gaels went looking for goal and carved some openings, but could not breach a solid defensive wall. McNally and substitute Eoghan Buckley rounded out the scoring for Christopher’s, while Coady and Dooner pointed for the Gaels. With Armagh-Notre Dame falling to the Blues, the win was enough for a place in the top four.


Gaels: B. Power, D. Ryan, H. O’Neill, P. McNicholas, R. Dooner (0-2), S. Cashen, M. Geoghan, M. Lundy (0-2), S. Conneely (0-2), J. Donnelly (0-1), P. Clancy (0-1), M. Coady (0-4), T. McDonagh. Sub: M. Kane (0-1). Christopher’s: P. Kenneally, C. Alyward, C. McDonald, B. Kelly, B. McNally, C. Brosnan, D. Kenneally (0-1), S. O’Hare (0-1), A. Maloney (0-1), S. Kelly (0-2), J. Kenneally (1-0), C. McNally (0-6), E. McCarthy (0-3). Sub: E. Buckley (0-1).


By Rory O'Donnell

Senior Football: Aiden McAnespies v Christopher's - Aug 1

Aiden McAnespies 1-14 Christopher’s 1-14

For the second time in two weeks Aiden McAnespies senior footballers were involved in a superb game of football, this time against the current championship holders, Christopher’s. The end result was slightly better for the northerners, a draw earned thanks to a cool CJ McGourty long range free that sailed over the bar to level the game with hardly any time left on the clock. There was never more than four points separating the sides at any point during the game, but Christopher’s looked to have done enough to win before McGourty stepped in to save a point for the Macs.

There was little quarter given as McAnespies Thomas Corrigan and Ciaran McDonald contest the ball.

The first half was helter skelter. McAnespies played some great football. In the early going Thomas Corrrigan and McGourty took advantage of some great ball played into their corners. Tiernan Diamond at center forward looked to be settling into the role more comfortably and played some well placed passes into the corners. Corrigan opened the scoring with a nice point and Cillian Brosnan answered from wing back for Christopher’s. After Sean O’Hare put Christopher’s ahead McAnespies out scored Christopher’s by a goal and three points to one point. Corrigan and McGourty (2) pointed for Macs, and Dan Kenneally put a booming point over for Christopher’s. Then came the McAnespies goal, a Diamond cross field ball found Donnacha Tobin coming in unmarked on the far side of the field and Mark O’Sullivan looked to have done enough to put the ball out for a 45 but it came back off the post and rebounded off the keeper’s foot and into the net. Christopher’s did not panic. With the midfielders coming more into the game patience paid off. Points from Sean Kelly and a Cathal McNally free reduced the deficit to two points. McNally was having a tough time in the corner, being well marked by Martin Boyne and nothing was coming easy for the Kildare man. Eventually referee John Fitzpatrick saw fit to issue a yellow card to Brendan Kelly for persistent fouling, and later one to Dan Kenneally was the pressure increased. Christopher’s finished the half the stronger side and points from Alan Maloney, Sean Kelly, and two McNally frees left it with McAnespies ahead by a point, 1-7 to 0-9 at the break.

Christopher's Danny Kenneally tries to dispossess Neil Donaghy.

McAnespies looked like they would pull away in the second half, but as with the first, Christopher’s reined in their opponents. Corrigan and Diamond put McAnespies three ahead with a point each to start the second period. Sean Kelly and McNally answered for Christopher’s. McAnespies then stretched their lead to four points for the second time in the game. Two McGourty frees were followed by a point from substitute Niall Golden. After McNally and Corrigan traded points, and things looking to be going very much in favour of McAnespies, it was Christopher’s turn to get a stroke of luck and find the back of the net. McNally was first to a breaking ball that resulted from a hopeful punt into the McAnespies square and the goal brought Christopher’s within a point. David Nation leveled the scores with a point from play, and Sean Kelly put Christopher’s ahead with a great score as time ran out. McAnespies’ CJ McGourty won a free well out the field and showed a cool head to send it over the bar from long range and save a point for the northerners. McAnespies will take the point, but for Christopher’s a win was really in order. Christopher’s must now beat the Gaels and Kerry in their final two games to have keep in with a chance of the playoffs.


Macs: S. Connolly, B. O’Reilly, M. Boyne, N. Clancy, T. McClelland, S. Shortall, B. McGarr, N. Donaghy, C. McCrory, T. Diamond (0-1), D. Tobin (1-0), CJ McGourty (0-8), T. Corrigan (0-4). Sub: N. Golden (0-1). Christopher’s: M. O’Sullivan, C. Aylward, C. McDonald, B. Kelly, B. McNally, C. Brosnan (0-1), D. Kenneally (0-1), S. O’Hare (0-1), A. Maloney (0-1), S. Kelly (0-4), J. Kenneally, E. McCarthy, C. McNally (1-5). Sub: D. Nation (0-1).


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

Gaelicsportscast with Denis O'Brien

Listen to the run down from Independence Day weekend with Denis O'Brien.

July 3 - Senior Football: Christopher's v Donegal

Christopher’s 4-9 Donegal 1-11

Crossmolina is back in the Christopher’s fold. When the chips were down it was Sean Kelly and Christopher’s who came through in a game that both sides needed badly to challenge for a place in the senior football playoffs.

Christy Aylward comes out of defence for Christopher's as Brian Lafferty tries to contain.

Christopher’s blew hot and cold in the first half, while once Donegal settled down, the northerners played more consistent football. The game opened with Christopher’s corner forward, Cathal McNally, pointing a free and shortly afterwards finishing a good move with another point from play. In the eighth minute McNally brilliantly kept an Alan Moloney shot from going wide and turned inside his man to bury the ball. Christopher’s 1-2, Donegal no score. Donegal settled however. Conor McLarney pointed a free, and Conor Rafferty followed with two more from corner forward. Now Christopher’s were turning the ball over very easily coming out of defence, and Donegal looked like they had their act together with Gerard Reddin looking comfortable at center back with his duties of keeping Kelly quiet, and Donegal picking up the breaks in the middle of the field.

McNally proved his worth at just the right time however. Showing quick reactions, the Kildare man fisted a Keith Scally shot, that that dropped short, into the net, to relieve the pressure on Christopher’s. John O’Loughlin pointed for Donegal, while Alan Moloney sent a lovely shot over in response. Cooley Kickhams own Conor Rafferty sent a free over the bar for Donegal to leave the Tír Chonaill men in with a shout at the break. Christopher’s 2-3, Donegal 0-5.

Donegal's Hugh McGinn tries to get around Noel Ryan as referee Nobby Walsh keeps a close eye.

Donegal came out in the second half and turned the tables by the time the half was 10 minutes old. Points came from Colm McLarney, a lovely left footed effort from Louth native Rafferty, and another Rafferty free. With Christopher’s defence under tremendous pressure Noel Ryan did well on several occasions to keep Donegal from totally overrunning the Christopher’s back line. O’Loughlin was motoring in the middle for Donegal, and a great ball from Brian Lafferty found Thomas Caldwell who fired home to put Donegal into a two point lead. Donegal, however, failed to keep the foot on the gas. With Christopher’s reeling, the northerners wasted a couple of chances to extend their new-found lead. Enter Christopher’s center forward, Kelly. Having had a quiet first 45 minutes, Kelly finished a well worked effort to bring Christopher’s within a point and a minute later leveled the game with a well taken point. Donegal then committed suicide as a careless pass coming out of defence resulted in a Christopher’s goal. Alan Moloney provided the finish. Christopher’s back on top.

Having had the momentum and seen it taken away, Donegal continued to shoot poorly and waste chances. Rafferty pointed a free, but Christopher’s answered with two. Moloney put another lovely shot over the bar, and Kelly finished a move that began with Ciaran McDonald bolting out of defence and setting up the score. A fourth goal sealed the deal for Christopher’s, and McNally completed his hat trick. Substitute Dave Ward played a good ball to McNally who fisted past the outcoming keeper. Having now lost three games, Donegal’s chances of making the senior playoffs hang by a thread, and a game against Aiden McAnespies is still to come. Having failed to do so last Sunday, Christopher’s closed the deal this week and are back on track.

Christopher’s: P. Kenneally, N. Ryan, C. McDonald, C. Aylward, B. McNally, B. Kelly, D. Kenneally, S. O’Hare, A. Moloney (1-2), S. Kelly (0-4), J. Kenneally, K. Scally, C. McNally (3-2). Donegal: M. Boyle, T. Maguire, N. Collins, D. Granagh, G. Reddin, D. McGowan, J. O’Loughlin (0-1), K. Lellis, C. Mclarney (0-2), K. Curran, B. Lafferty, C. Rafferty (0-7), H. McGinn. Sub, T. Caldwell (1-0), C. Corr (0-1).

By Rory O'Donnell

June 27 - Senior Football: Wolfe Tones v Christopher's

Wolfe Tones 0-12 Christopher’s 1-9

Christopher’s will have been the more disappointed of the teams with the result. Having trailed for three quarters of the game, Christopher’s persistence paid off, and a flurry of scores in the second half saw the Boston champions take a two-point lead with time winding down. Tones also lost key player Gary Brilly, who was sent off for a second yellow card as time ran out and a win looked on the cards for Christopher’s. However, Tones rallied in injury time to even the scores and maintain their unbeaten record, while from a Christopher’s viewpoint, it was a win that slipped away.

Christophers' Sean O'Hare gets his first to this kickout.

The Tones enjoyed a significant advantage in the first half and played the much better football. Wing forward, Donal Armstrong, put three well-taken scores over the bar from play as Christopher’s back line struggled to cope with the Tones forwards. The champions also struggled at the other end of the field as they kicked three bad wides during the first 15 minutes, failing to tally a score in the opening quarter. The impressive Armstrong opened the scoring after six minutes. Mike O’Brien and Marty Farrell added well taken scores for the Tones. After a barren first 15 minutes, Christopher’s caught a break and netted through Cathal McNally. McNally side-footed a ball that broke from a challenge between David Nation and Willie O’Dowd into the empty net and the sides were level. The goal did not do much to break the Tones hold of the game however. Armstrong popped up on the wing for two points from play, and Farrell stroked two frees over the bar to establish a four-point lead and keep the Tones very much in control. Hope sprung for Christopher’s as in the final two minutes of the half, McNally put a free over the bar and the Kildare U-21 followed with a point from play. Things then got a little testy; Gary Brilly and Sean O’Hare each received a yellow card for an off the ball scuffle. Having played second fiddle for the first half, Christopher’s trailed by just two points at the break.

Noel Ryan challenges Wolfe Tones' Marty Farrell.

The second half began with a booming Dan McCabe free from 45 yards that split the uprights, and it was matched in-kind with a Sean O’Hare free from a similar distance for Christopher’s. The sides traded scores as Christopher’s began to find their way into the game. The champions then went on a run and worked their way into the lead. Points from Cork under-21 and Nemo Rangers Clubman, David Nation, Cathal McNally and Barry McNally, propelled Christopher’s into a two point lead. With the Tones losing their way with some wayward passes into the forward line, and with the bit between their teeth, a victory for Christopher’s looked inevitable. With about a minute remaining the Tones looked well and truly doomed when Brilly was given his marching orders. With Christopher’s begging for the final whistle, the Tones found that they had something left in the tank. Marty Farrell brought the South Bostonians within a point and a pointed free from midfielder Mick McGee late in injury time, to the jubilant cheers of their supporters, saved a point for the Tones. Christopher’s can take heart from their second half performance, however will need to learn how to lock the door in crunch time if they are to successfully defend their title.

 

Tones: W. O’Dowd, E. Naughton, N. Devereaux, M. O’Brien (0-1), D. Kinahan, K. Regan, J. Farrell, M. McGee (0-1), D. Armstrong (0-4), G. Brilly, D. Kelly (0-1), D. McCabe (0-1), M. Farrell (0-4). Christopher’s: P. Kenneally, N. Ryan, C. McDonald, C. Aylward, B. McNally (0-1), B. Kelly, D. Kenneally, S. O’Hare (0-1), D. Nation (0-1), A. Moloney, E. McCarthy, D. Ward, C. McNally (1-5). Sub: Buckley (0-1).

 

By Rory O'Donnell

Armagh Notre Dame v Christopher's

Christopher’s 0-8 Armagh-Notre Dame 2-18

The North American and Boston champions, Christopher’s, took the field for the first time this season when they faced Armagh-Notre Dame. Suffice to say that it did not go well for the defending champions. Armagh-Notre Dame, who themselves were coming off a heavy defeat to Donegal last week, ran out comfortable winners. Having taken a substantial early lead, Armagh-Notre Dame cruised for the second period to win their first points of the championship.

Both sides contest a kickout.

Christopher’s got off to a slow start and some sloppy play did not help their cause. It took some time to shake off the rust, but by the time if was shaken it was too late to mount a serious challenge to the Orchard men. The northerners led by 10 points at the half. Some newcomers to the Brighton based side helped their cause, Craig Berrigan in the middle of the field, along with Johnny Cooper in the back line and David Quinn at corner forward tightened up a side that was well beaten the previous week. As Christopher;s were finding their stride, their opponents were firing over the points. Quinn and Darren Gilsenan caused grief to the Christopher’s back line, and after 20 minutes Quinn showed some quickness to shake off his man and the man from the Na Fianna club in Dublin netted. At the other end Cathal McNally almost did the same for Christopher’s but the Kildare U-21 fired his shot over the bar when a goal might have done much to settle Christopher’s.

Christopher's Cathal McNally is pursued by Johnny Cooper.

Christopher’s settled somewhat in the second half, but at that stage the horse had left the barn. David Nation, McNally, and Mark O’Sullivan pointed. O’Sullivan had entered the fray but found it tough going with the attention of Conor Brophy keeping the big man under wraps. The Brighton side continued to add to their tally. The hard working Quinn goaled again and additional points came from Fergal McClelland and Shane Murphy before the final whistle. Christopher’s spent much of the half in search of a goal and generated a few chances, but their opponents kept them from netting a consolation goal. A good outing for the current Boston Intermediate champions, and some work to do for the senior holders.

Christopher’s: P. Kenneally, N. Ryan, G. O’Riordan, P. Moloney, C. Brosnan, B. Kelly, D. Kenneally, J. Kenneally, J. Moylan, J. O’Leary, D. Nation, E. McCarthy, C. McNally. Armagh-ND: P. Geraghty, G. Gilsenan, C. Brophy, A. Doyle, J. McCormick, J. Cooper, C. Berrigan, S. Dineen, S. Murphy, D. Magill, D. Gilsenan, D. Quinn, S. O’Hare.

By Rory O'Donnell

Boston Selection

The Boston selection to play New York Saturday afternoon is as follows: Paudie Kenneally, Dan Kenneally, (Christopher's); Kieran Cox, Tom Sally McDonagh, Pat McNicholas, Colman Mulkerrins (Connemara Gaels); Mike Moynihan, Julian Leonard (Cork); Donal McNulty, Kevin Curran, Paddy Kelly, Brian Lafferty, John Lynch, Thomas Maguire (Donegal); Robbie Croft, Thomas Dennehy (Kerry); Michael Carolan (Mayo); Colm McCrory, Neil Donaghy, Tony McClellan, Dermot McCrudden (Aidan McAnespies); Simon Sinnott (Shannon Blues); Marty Farrell, Derek Scullane, Michael Crillie (Wolfe Tones).

NACB Senior Football Final: Christopher's v Parnells (Chi)

Christopher’s 4-15 Parnells (Chi) 0-7

Christopher’s followed their first Boston Senior Championship last week with a North American title. It was a significant moment, Christopher’s fielded a team with 5 American Born starters and ended the game with 7. In fairness the manner in which the home team ran away with the game allowed for giving everybody a run. Right from the get go it was clear that Christopher’s were the superior side by a long shot. After the first 30 minutes Christopher’s led by 9 points and it just became more one-sided in the second half.

















North American Senior Football Championship winners: Dan Cabral, Dan Kenneally, Ryan Graber, Brendan Kelly, Paudie Kenneally, Jerry Kenneally, and Paul Bannon (All American Born) - along with Donie Kenneally.

Christopher’s had to literally change their shirts inside out since there was a clash of colours and the home team are the ones to oblige. Having turned their shirts inside out, Christopher’s proceeded to turn Parnell’s inside out with some dominant performances in all over the field. Dan Kenneally impressed in midfield and Parnells had no answer for the eldest of the three Kenneally brothers on the field. Sean Kelly was on form at center forward and in the corner Finbarr (Barry) O’Driscoll put in an effortless performance. Christopher’s had seven points on the board before Parnells opened their account with a point from center forward Martin Rafter. Parnells forays into opposition territory were few and far between. Martin Hogan, Brian Lonergan, and Brendan Kelly proved a tough barrier to get around for the visitors. With Christopher’s ahead by a score of nine points to two, Barry O’Driscoll netted a fine goal. Sean Kelly worked hard to win the ball back and found O’Driscoll who planted his low shot into the bottom corner. As half time approached there was a scare as Lonegan and Dan Kenneally had to leave the field for treatment due to a clash of heads.















Christopher's celebrate their first North American Senior Football Championship.

The injured players reentered the fray to begin the second half. Parnells accounted for the first point after the restart through Brendan Doherty and for the first 15 minutes matched Christopher’s. Doherty and Rafter put a couple of points together, but this may have something to do with Dan Kenneally having to receive some additional treatment to his head injury. Scuffles began to break out and after swift warnings from the referee matters settled down again. The game was over for sure 18 minutes into the second half. Jerry Kenneally goaled from close range in the 17th minute, and O’Driscoll followed with another one minute later. Paudie Kenneally found the net with Christopher’s fourth goal two minutes later, and with the final scores of the game, Rowland and Paul Bannon put the finishing touches on an amazing season for Christopher’s.

Christopher’s: R. Graber, E. Cotter, N. Ryan, B. Lonergan, R. Hogan, B. Kelly, M. O’Meara, D. Kenneally, I. Rowland, S. Kelly, J. Kenneally, F. O’Driscoll, P. Kenneally. Parnells: J. Hanratty, P. MacFionnachada, S. Boyle, J. Rafter, B. Lynch, C. Munn, D. O’Dowd, W. Sherlock, B. Doherty, M. Rafter, C. Griffin, J. Cunningham, P. Clark.

By Rory O'Donnell

Senior Football Final

Christopher’s 0-14 Shannon Blues 0-8

Christopher’s claimed their first senior football championship on Sunday. The game was no classic, but having started off on shaky ground, Christopher’s put in a powerful second half performance, in particular, Will Kennedy in the middle of the field, who proved to be the driving force behind Christopher’s victory.





















Will Kennedy outjumps Stephen Gilmartin and Philip Lydon.

The Blues had the better of things in the first half. Christopher’s seemed to be second to every 50/50 ball, and when in possession made some poor decisions or simply poor passes. The Blues on the other hand had their game plan working well. O’Callaghan was given the early ball, and though the Kerryman did not score himself, the space was opened for Alan O’Donoghue and Colm McGee. O’Donoghue got the scoring off to a start and Ian Rowland answered for Christopher’s. The Blues then shot into a five points to one lead. Stephen Gilmartin pointed twice from frees and McGee twice from play. With 5 minutes remaining in the half Christopher’s finally found their feet and after kicking two wides tallied three badly needed points before half time. Eric Hegarty pointed twice and Rowland put a free over the bar. Gilmartin put a free over for the Blues and it was a two point game at the break.

Once the second half began Christopher’s launched themselves at the Blues. Kennedy dominated in midfield and in addition to being a physical force, displayed some fine shooting skills. Rowland got Christopher’s within a point with a free, and Barry O’Driscoll leveled the scores four minutes into the new half. Kennedy launched a curler that tailed between the posts at the last minute to put Christopher’s into the lead for the first time, a lead they would hold on to. Rowland made it two points in Christopher’s favour, and the Blues seemed to be still in half time break mode. Lee McQuade got the Shannonsiders off the ground, but Christopher’s maintained their onslaught. Rowland and Kennedy put back to back scores together to put Christopher’s a goal ahead.
















David O'Callaghan tries to escape the attention of Eoin Cotter and Brian Lonergan.

Christopher’s looked a little in trouble as within two minutes two of the half back line had to leave the field with injuries. Colm McGee stemmed the tide, but the Blues had no answer as Christopher’s were flying – the lengthy stoppages did not affect their concentration and focus. O’Driscoll, Kennedy, and Sean Kelly pointed three times in a row. The Blues tried to rally and generated several chances to rein in Christopher’s, but each effort went badly wide. Ian Rowland put the last score of the day over the bar for Christopher’s, and with minutes left it was get numbers behind the ball to prevent a goal. The Blues nearly netted, but Mark O’Sullivan blocked the shot. Joy for Christopher’s at the final whistle after a thoroughly deserved win.

Christopher’s: P. Kenneally, N. Ryan, E. Cotter, B. Lonergan, R. Hogan, S. McNally, D. Kenneally, W. Kennedy (0-3), I. Rowland (0-6), S. Kelly (0-1), J. Kenneally, B. O’Driscoll (0-2), E. Hegarty (0-2). Blues: D. Hawes, S. Kelly, T. Wallace, S. Sinnott, P. O’Brien, B. Maloney, P. Lydon, S. Gilmartin (0-3), L. McQuade (0-1), S. O’Mahoney, C. McGee (0-3), A. O’Donoghue (0-1), D. O’Callaghan.

By Rory O'Donnell

Senior Football Semi Final: Aiden McAnespies v Christopher's

Aiden McAnespies 1-10 Christopher’s 3-10

Aiden McAnespies reign at the top of Boston and North American football was brought to an end at the hands of Christopher’s. Christopher’s, a side with three American born players in the starting lineup, found themselves in the unfamiliar position of the senior football semi-final and put on a blistering display of early passing and shooting in the first half. Two crucial goals in the second half from substitute Mark O’Sullivan secured the win as McAnespies were making a brave push to come back from behind down a man.

Rory Maguire shoots, and Ryan Graber made the save.

Christopher’s were sitting pretty at the end of the first half thanks to some well taken scores by the forwards, and a back line that covered well for each other. Sean Kelly curled a lovely point over the bar in the first minute, a sign of things to come from Christopher’s. McAnespies settled into the game and Colm McCrory finished a well worked move to point, and Colm Donnelly did likewise soon afterwards. In the early going McAnespies were one step ahead. Once Christopher’s got into the swing of things the forwards put some nice moves together and took some lovely points. Ian Rowland leveled things with a pointed free after Barry O’Driscoll was fouled, and O’Driscoll himself followed with a fine score. Christopher’s threatened the McAnespies goal on a couple of occasions, Sean Kelly’s shot was well saved by David Wright, and shortly afterwards it was Kelly again who was blocked by the diving Fergal McPhillips as he shot low from close range. Kelly was a powerful force and McAnespies had little answer for the strident running of the Crossmolina man. Rowland put two more frees over the bar as Christopher’s enjoyed the advantage in the balance of play. McCrory and Donnelly answered for McAnespies with a point each, but the Tyrone side lost Neil Donaghy to a red card for striking his marker as the kickout was being taken. A goal came from Barry O’Driscoll as he finished off a good move low into the far corner as Christopher’s motored. Hegarty and Rowland put two fantastic points over from play, and Collie Moore and Donnelly pulled a couple of points back for McAnespies. Donnelly and Sean Kelly traded points to leave Christopher’s five points to the good at half time.

Neil McAdam and Will Kennedy contest a kickout.

McAnespies came out strong in the second half, clearly with the attitude that it was all or nothing. The northerners tallied the first four points. Neil McAdam put two dead balls over the bar and was followed by a Collie Moore point. Moore stole forward from his corner back berth where he was putting in a Trojan effort in trying to keep Barry O’Driscoll shackled. Colm McCrory put a fourth unanswered point over the bar to bring McAnespies within a point with 17 minutes of the half expired. Christopher’s looked like they had lost their way, and that the introduction of Mark O’Sullivan at corner forward at the break had disrupted the forward line. O’Sullivan however proved invaluable when he finally got involved in the play. McAnespies failed to properly clear a ball as tired legs eventually took their toll, and O’Driscoll found an unmarked O’Sullivan standing on the edge of the square. O’ Sullivan coolly worked the space open and side footed the ball home. Ian Rowland followed with a point from a 45, but McAnespies still had life. Colm Donnelly netted to keep hope alive for the South Boston lads but O’Driscoll and O’Sullivan combined again to score a second goal – O’Sullivan again unmarked in front of goal as the spaces opened up in the McAnespies back line. O’Driscoll pointed to cap a fine overall display from Christopher’s.

Macs: D. Wright, C. Moore (0-2), K. Hudson, A. Nestor, M. McGovern, F. McPhillips, N. Donaghy, N. McAdam (0-2), C. Donnelly (1-3), R. Maguire, J. Kelly, C. McCrory (0-3), D. McCrudden. Christopher’s: R. Graber, N. Ryan, E. Cotter, B. Lonergan, P. Hogan, S. McNally, D. Kenneally, W. Kennedy, I. Rowland (0-5), S. Kelly (0-2), G. Kenneally, B. O’Driscoll (1-2), E. Hegarty (0-1). Sub: M. O’Sullivan (2-0)

By Rory O'Donnell

Senior Football: Connemara Gaels v Christopher's - July 18

Connemara Gaels 2-7 Christopher’s 2-22

In a big game, where the opposing Gaels team needed the win to retain hopes of a senior championship, Christopher’s came up trumps and demonstrated that their unbeaten record is not an anomaly. Christopher’s had the benefit of an extra man for most of the game, but in fairness the Hyde Park men had started inflicting the damage well before Kieran Cox was shown a red card for a late high challenge on Eric Hegarty. The 12-man Gaels started to stage a comeback early in the second half, but star forward Mark Dougan and Christopher’s John Kavanagh were each sent off for their part in a schmozzle, and with the game reduced to 11 men versus 12, Christopher’s took full advantage and ran away with it in the final 15 minutes.




















Christopher's Eric Hegarty heads for Goal.

The Gaels struck first with two points in two minutes from corner forward Mark Dougan. Christopher’s sent a message as Eric Hegarty hit the side netting with their first chance. Brian Lonergan kick started things with a run from wing back to setup Hegarty for Christopher’s first score. From that point on the Christopher’s corner forwards caused havoc in the Gaels back line. Christopher’s won a healthy amount of possession and played some good ball into the corners. Hegarty and Nemo Rangers prodigy, Finbarr O’Driscoll, had the Gaels back line looking for answers. They took full advantage of the ball played in to them as Hegarty slotted two points over the bar and O’Driscoll three in the following 20 minutes. After Hegarty scored the sixth point in a row for Christopher’s, Cox’s marching orders came. The Gaels switched wing back Colm Arkinson on to O’Driscoll, and the Corkman was somewhat quieter. However, Ian Rowland at wing forward stepped up and pointed three times in the final stages of the half. The Gaels struggled to get the ball into Dougan and Michael Martin, and when the westerners did get into shooting range, the result was not what was wanted with the ball either going wide or dropping short. Eventually a goal came, and it was well worked. Michael McGill started a move that Michael Martin finished with a fine shot into the roof of the net to keep the Gaels in with a fair shout. There were four points between the sides at the half, 1-3 to 0-10.

















Hegarty and Brian McLarnon tangle for posession.

The Gaels got off the great start in the second half and evened things up within four minutes. Playing with a heightened sense of urgency, the Gaels were first to breaking ball in the middle of the field and chasing down any loose possession. Mark Dougan won a penalty and Galwayman Michael Martin executed the kick perfectly and made it a one-point game. The Antrim native then scored a superb point under pressure to level the scores with four minutes gone. However, things went all pear shaped from a Gaels viewpoint as one minute later Dougan became the second Gaels man to get his marching orders, along with Christopher’s corner back John Kavanagh, for their part in a free for all. Christopher’s went two points ahead thanks to Rowland frees, but the Gaels came back again. Colin Flanagan and Michael Martin (2) put three unanswered points over the bar as the westerners again raised their game. One wondered how long could the Gaels keep up the tempo. With 15 minutes left it was all to play for, but Christopher’s inched their way into the lead again as they started to regain midfield dominance. Sean Kelly pointed three times in three minutes and Rowland added a free to put Christopher’s four points ahead. The Gaels continued to press for some scores, however with the backs caught upfield, a goal came that killed off the game with seven minutes to go. O’Driscoll got on the end of a breakaway move and netted with aplomb to put Christopher’s seven points ahead. Christopher’s went on to add another 1-6 before the final whistle and are sitting nicely on 10 points – and still to be beaten. The Gaels may still have a chance, but that could depend on other results.

Gaels: R. McCrystal, M. Kelly, D. McLarnon, C. Arkinson, A. Flanagan, C. Conroy, M. McGill, C. Larkin (0-1), K. Cox, C. Flanagan (0-1), J. O’Brien, M. Dougan (1-3), M. Martin (2-2). Christopher’s: R. Graber, N. Ryan, J. Kavanagh, B. Lonergan, E. Coter, P. Hogan, W. Kennedy, D. Kenneally, I. Rowland (0-10), S. Kelly (0-4), B. Kelly, B. O’Driscoll (2-4), E. Hegarty. (0-2). Sub: J. Kenneally (0-2).

By Rory O'Donnell

Senior Football: Kerry v Donegal - July 11

Kerry 1-12 Donegal 2-11

Saturday evenings throw up some of the best games of the year. With Kerry leading by 8 points and only 7 minutes away from pulling off an upset, Donegal’s Paddy Kelly fisted the ball over the goal line from close range. According to the umpires it was too close as both signaled for a square ball, but the call is not the umpires to make. Referee, Brian Gallagher adjudged the goal to be fair and it stood. Kerry were still leading by 5 points, but with their confidence now shaken and Donegal seeing a pathway to redemption having played so poorly for 50 minutes, the momentum took a massive swing. Donegal went on the score another goal and four points to steal the points from a Kerry side who wilted having worked very hard for 50 minutes.



















Paddy Kelly gets his fist to this ball in the first half.

Kerry were clearly up for this game, their concentration and determination was evident in the team’s play all through the field. On the other hand, Donegal looked as if they were sleepwalking for most of the first 30 minutes. Kerry’s back line worked extremely hard in closing down the space for the Donegal forwards and the ball played ball into the forward line was very good. Mark McGowan opened the scoring for Donegal with a fisted point, and Kerry answered with two. Sean Kiley, who impressed at center forward, and Rory O’Neill at corner forward got their names on the scoreboard. After Eddie Mangan leveled affairs with a well-taken score after 10 minutes, Kerry worked themselves into a four point lead at the break. Winning possession from kickouts and breaking up Donegal moves, Kerry put five over the bar to one for Donegal for the remainder of the half. Donegal also had Ferghal Murphy to thank for two fine saves that prevented Kerry for scoring a goal. The first was a shot from Rory O’Neill, and Kerry were unlucky as Barry Kennedy was first to the rebound but his follow up hit the crossbar. Robbie Croft was denied late in the half as Murphy got down well to stop the Naomh Barrog clubman’s shot from the edge of the small square.





















Frankie Sullivan tries to corral Eddie Mangan

After the restart Kerry continued to play with confidence and got the first score of the second half. Donegal looked as if they were trying to raise their game, but Kerry continued to put in the effort to maintain the lead. Rory O’Neill put a well worked score over the bar. Mark McGowan and Paddy Kelly pointed for Donegal, but Kiley split the posts twice for Kerry in response. After Mangan pointed from a free to bring Donegal within four points, that goal that seemed like it was coming all afternoon for Kerry finally arrived. Rory O’Neill netted from close rage following a move involving substitute George O’Keefe and the instrumental Kiley. After the sides traded points with Kerry eight points ahead, Donegal scored the controversial goal. Kerry still held a comfortable lead, but what followed was a complete reversal. Donegal undid in less than 10 minutes a lead that took Kerry 50 to build. Mangan played a big part in the comeback, and pointed to follow up the goal. Donegal now were the ones winning the kickouts and breaking up the Kerry efforts at moving downfield. Substitute Christy Bell blasted home a second Donegal goal with the clock winding down, and Mangan fisted the equalizer over the bar a minute later. Mangan then put a 35 yard free over the bar, and won the ensuing kickout to supply Paddy Kelly the ball for the insurance point.

A cruel ending for Kerry, but a lesson learned perhaps. Kerry showed that they are capable of playing some high quality football. A good sign for Donegal, when the chance for redemption came the northerners grasped it with both hands.

Kerry: J. Molloy, R. Dwyer, O. Murphy, C. O’Sullivan, F. Sullivan, M. Godley, J. Moroney (0-1), P. Corrigan, R. Croft (0-2), S. Kiley (0-4), L. Shorten, B. Kennedy (0-1), R. O’Neill (1-2). Sub: G. O’Keefe (0-1). Donegal: F. Murphy, C. Healy, S. Lee, R. McLaughlin, S. Hannon, M. McGowan (0-2), D. McNulty, M. McGinty, R. Wherity (0-1), P. Kelly (1-2), G. Hoey, C. Mullins (0-1), E. Mangan (0-5). Sub: C. Bell (1-0).


There were two other senior football games played Saturday. The Wolfe Tones easily beat Armagh-Notre Dame, while Christopher's continued their unbeaten streak with a five point win over Galway, 3-11 to 1-12. In junior football the New England Celtics are still looking for their first win, Cork came out winners by a score of 1-11 to 0-9.


By Rory O'Donnell

Mayo v Christopher's - June 20

Mayo 3-8 Christopher’s 2-13

The scoreboard in Canton still reflected Mayo’s heavy defeat to Donegal as last weekend ended on a bad note for the westerners. They picked themselves up again to face a Christopher’s side that was 2 for 2. The game turned out to be a tremendous affair where the result was in doubt until the very last kick. Mayo looked to be cruising after the first half, but Christopher’s showed some great commitment to come storming back and hold on at the end for the win. In a small bit of irony, two Crossmolina natives played a heavy part in Mayo’s downfall.

















Crossmolina native Sean Kelly points for Christopher's


Christopher’s started out looking strong and for the first five minutes enjoyed most of the possession. Brian McNally opened the scoring with an impressive point. Mayo struck with a goal after 5 minutes and then proceeded to settle down and played some lovely passing football. Ian O’Dowd netted from close range. With the Mayo players running in support of each other, another goal and three points followed. It could have been more; Ryan Graber in the Christopher’s goal was called upon twice to make point blank saves, and Mayo missed a couple of very point-able chances. The best Mayo point came from Patrick McHale, the midfielder finished off a lovely passing move that was a hallmark of Mayo’s first half display. Mayo’s second goal came courtesy of a hesitant pass out of the Christopher’s defence, and Pat Walsh capitalized for maximum punishment. Christopher’s brought themselves back within touching distance towards the end of the half and popped three points over without reply. Sean Kelly was the driving force at center forward. The Crossmolina man pointed twice and McNally once to make to 0-6 to 2-4 in Mayo’s favour at the break.


















Jarvey Toner tries to evade the attentions of Ian O'Dowd


Christopher’s made some half time changes. Mark O’Sullivan was introduced to corner forward – a change that paid hefty dividends. After Mayo extended their lead with the first two scores of the second half, courtesy of Barry O’Donovan and Pat Walsh, Christopher’s back line dug in. Showing more commitment in the tackle, Christopher’s provided little room for the Mayo forwards to operate. Points came from Ian Dowling, Kelly, and Brian McNally. Mayo led by a goal entering the last 15 minutes. Things were all going Christopher’s way as they won most of the midfield exchanges and applied a lot of pressure on the Mayo back line. Dowling showed a keen left foot to point, and shortly afterwards Christopher’s took the lead with a well worked goal. Substitute O’ Sullivan showed great experience in making the extra pass to find Brian Lonergan alone in front of goal and Lonergan netted. Dowling again stroked the ball over with the left and Mayo looked to be on the ropes.

Corner back Martin Wynne tried to provide a spark to re-ignite the Mayo challenge. A give and go following a run the length of the field resulted in a goal that put Mayo a point to the good, but it was Christopher’s who got themselves fired up following the score. Dowling, the other Crossmolina man in the Christopher’s forward line, leveled the scores with another superb point, and then Christopher’s struck with a second goal, this time from O’Sullivan himself. The former Cork county player was fed by Dowling in front of goal, sidestepped his man and slotted home. Dowling followed with another point and Mayo’s goose looked cooked. The westerners lifted themselves and kept it exciting until the very last kick. The Connaught men came within two points as Barry O’Donovan pointed twice from frees, but Christopher’s weathered the late storm to maintain their 100% record.

Mayo: D. O’Malley, M. Wynne (1-0), M. Murphy, M. Carolan, G. Toner, D. Murphy, Paudi Walsh, P. McHale (0-1), B. O’Donovan (0-3), S. Hughes, Pat Walsh (1-1), K. McAllister (0-2), K. McAllister, I. O’Dowd (1-1). Christopher’s: R. Graber, N. Ryan, E. Cotter, B. Kelly, J. Kavanagh, I. Foley, D. Kenneally, M. O’Meara, P. Kenneally, S. Kelly (0-3), I. Dowling (1-5), B. Lonergan, B. McNally (0-5). Sub: M. O’Sullivan (1-0).

By Rory O'Donnell

Championship begins

The championship starts this Sunday, May 24.

The first game of the day (1:15) features The Boston Shamrocks and Tir na nOg in the Orla Benson Cup Final, and at 2:30 the hurlers of Tipperary and Wexford contest the Kieran Sheehan Cup Final.

Christopher's and Armagh-Notre Dame open the senior football championship at 3:45 and Kerry and the Wolfe Tones play at 5:00.

Unfortunately I cannot post reports for the next 2 weeks. However, I will be back on track 2 weeks from now.