Tables and Next Weekend's Schedule

Boston GAA Schedule

All games at the Irish Cultural Center unless otherwise noted

Wednesday July 18

5:00 Junior Hurling:  Tipperary v Wexford

5:30 Junior B Football: Aidan McAnespies v New England Celtics

Saturday July 21

4:15 Junior A Football:  Shannon Blues v Connemara Gaels

5:30 Senior Football:  Armagh-Notre Dame v Cork

Field B

4:30 Junior B Football:  Kerry v Galway

5:45 Junior B Football:  Mayo v Shannon Blues

Worcester, Ma.

3:30 Junior C Hurling:  Worcester v Barley House Wolves

Sunday July 22

11:30 Junior A Football:  Donegal v Aidan McAnespies

12:45 Ladies Senior Football:  Boston Shamrocks v Connacht Ladies

2:00 Youth Games

2:30 Senior Football:  Mayo v Galway

3:45 Senior Hurling:  Wexford v Galway

5:00 Senior Football:  Connemara Gaels v Christopher’s

Field B

1:45 Junior B Football:  Armagh-Notre Dame v Donegal

3:15 Junior B Football:  Cork v Hartford

This time of year all the games count.  Sunday starts with Connacht Ladies and the Boston Shamrocks.  The Shamrocks came out on top in the last encounter thanks to a last minute penalty, and Connacht Ladies felt hard done by.  Making amends for that result will be foremost on the minds of the westerners.  Midfieler, Imelda McNulty, had to leave that game at half time with an ankle injury and should she be unavailable it will be a blow to Connacht.  The Shamrocks have some fine talent in their lineup.  The McGovern sisters, Sharon and Edel McGovern feature prominently, while Sheila Carroll and the hero last time, Linda Cronin will give their opposing backs plenty of trouble.  An intriguing encounter awaits.  In men's senior football on Saturday, Cork will keep in with a chance if the rebels can overcome the challenge of Armagh-Notre Dame.  The northerners are looking for their first win of the season and might see Cork as an opportunity to get it.    

On Sunday Galway face Mayo.  Like Armagh-Notre Dame, Mayo are seeking their first win of the year.  Galway fancy their chances though, and with Pat O'Rourke in the full forward line they will be hard to stop.  The tribesmen have everything to play for and the talent in the side should see them through.  

The last game of the day on Sunday will feature Connemara Gaels and Christopher's.  This is a biggie.  Each side needs the win to avoid slipping out of contention, and both teams are loaded with talent.  Starring for Christopher's in the forward line have been Dr. Croke's duo Daithi Casey and Chris Brady.  Eoin Gorman and Gavin O'Grady have also performed well, so the Gaels will have their work cut out at the back.  The Gaels are also loaded with talent.  Connemara men, Ciaran O'Donnell, Sean Conneely, Coleman Mulkerrins, and also Sean Moran have performed consistently, while Michael Rogers and Joe Greaney give them two talented big men.  The big field at the ICC has seen some massive battles so far this season, and odds are that the Gaels and Christopher's will serve up another classic.

The big senior hurling match on Sunday sees Galway and Wexford meet.  The teams played to a tie in their last outing, but Galway have grown in stature since and might fancy themselves to take this Battle of Brighton.  From Steven Nolan in the back line and Seamus Corry in midfield, to Eoin Guinan and John Moylan up front, Galway have a well balanced side.  Wexford  have been doing it with their reliables, Brian Dalton, Eoghan Kavanagh, Jamie Keogh, Donal Redmond, and Tom Moloney have worked hard for the Wexfordmen, and they would love nothing more than to put one over on their local rivals.  Hurling fans should have one to look forward to Sunday. 

Senior Football: Kerry Snatch Victory from Cork

Cork 1-6 Kerry 2-6


Munster rivals Kerry and Cork kicked off the Senior Football Championship amid very wet and difficult conditions Sunday afternoon. With 29 minutes gone in the second half Cork held a three-point lead and it looked as if The Rebels had the points in the bag. Kerry persisted however, and as Cork struggled to clear their lines a late goal from Kerry corner forward Damien Kelly proved to be the wining score in a dramatic finish.

It was a day for the ducks when Kerry and Cork met in the
2011 Senior Football Championship opener.

Conditions made it difficult for both sides to hit their men in the forward line. Colm Caffrey marshaled the back line well for Cork and Kerry’s early efforts at moving the ball frequently broke down. Caffrey's counterpart, Kerry center back Tom Dennehy, did a lot of mopping up. Eventually Mike Moynihan opened the account for Cork with a well-taken point from play and after eight minutes added another from a free. With Cork looking like they were taking control Kerry struck with a goal from nothing. A free kick from 50 yards was dropped into the square and Padraig Doyle got a hand to it to direct the ball into the Cork net. Kerry followed with a point from Ian Whelan and the Kingdom now held a two-point lead. Cork weren’t long about canceling out the goal. Mike Moynihan finished a move that began with Julian Leonard at corner back, Cork moved the ball well downfield and Stephen Birmingham passed to Moynihan who made no mistake from in front of goal. Cork almost had a second when Trevor Kelly was found on the edge of the small square, but Kerry keeper, Dan O’Connor, narrowed the angle and Kelly’s shot trickled wide of the far post. The sides traded points before the end of the half, David Hughes for Cork and Damien Kelly for Kerry. At the break Cork led by a score of 1-3 to 1-2.

Julian Leonard tries to get the block in on Ian Whelan.

The rain eased off the second half, however, conditions remained difficult. Stringing together a few passes was a challenge, and after Kelly leveled the scores with a free for Kerry five minutes into the half a long scoreless period ensued. Both sets of backs were in the ascendancy with play moving up and down the field. With the game in the balance Cork were the side that broke the deadlock with three points in quick succession from Mike Moynihan. With 10 minutes left on the clock Cork looked a good bet to come away with the win. Kerry went in search of goal as the minutes ticked away, while for Cork it was all hands on deck to clear the lines. Cork, however, paid the price for failing to do so effectively and went from 3 points up to 3 points down in a six-point injury time swing. After Cork beat back a 14-yard free that was hit low, Sean Fogerty settled for a point from the rebound. 30 minutes gone and Cork up by two, but stoppages for injuries earlier in the half meant time was left on the clock. Cork continued to turn the ball over when trying to come out of defence and eventually it proved costly. A quick move led to the ball in Damien Kelly’s hands and the corner forward blasted home to the delight of Kerry supporters. Cork tried to lift their game to salvage something, but Padraig Doyle and Kelly added a point each for Kerry before time was up. Cork, who looked like winning some early championship points, will find this one hard to swallow and the rebels will hope to put it behind them when they meet Mayo next week. Kerry’s persistence paid off in the end, and they will need more that attitude as the championship progresses.

Cork: J. O’Toole, J. Leonard, J. Regan, C. Poirer, C. Caffrey, D. Hughes (0-1), S. Caulfield, M. O’Leary, M. Cahilane, T. Kelly, S. Bermingham, M. Moynihan (1-5), A. Boyle. Kerry: D. O’Cruchuir, M. Godley, C. Moore, M. Moriarty, T. Dennehy, T. Fitzgerald, S. Fogerty (0-1), C. O’Sullivan, E. Cummins, P. Bailey, P. Doyle (1-1), I. Whelan, D. Kelly (1-4).


By Rory O'Donnell

Cork v Armagh-Notre Dame

Cork 3-11 Armagh-Notre Dame 0-2

Last week I said the Armagh-Notre Dame would provide a stiffer challenge for Cork, that was not an accurate assessment. The southerners had another easy win to advance to the semi-final of the cup. Armagh-Notre Dame were unable to match Cork in any facet of the game. Cork were on top from start to finish, and Trevor Kelly, and Mike Moynihan combined well in the Cork forward line throughout the game.


At the end of the first half Cork led by six points. An early goal came with a great downfield move that started with Joe Regan at corner back and ended with Kelly linking with Moynihan who put Andrew Boyle in for a close range goal. Cork continued to brush the challenge of their opponents aside Moynihan put three more over the bar along with one from Mark Cahilane. Moynihan put another major away for Cork just before half time, while Frank Meehan mustered a couple of scores for his side. At the half it was 2-4 to 1-1 in favour of the southerners.

Martin Tiffany shoots for Armagh-Notre Dame

The second half was downhill for Armagh-Notre Dame. Cork kept up the pressure and dominated all over the field. Boyle netted a second goal for himself and a third for Cork. More points came from Sean Caulfield, Trevor Kelly, and David Hughes. Colm Caffrey and Julian Leonard got in on the act with scores as they moved up from their berths in the back line. Cork will face Aidan McAnespies in the semi-final, and I will venture to say that Cork will face a tougher test.

Cork: J. O’Toole, J. Leonard, J. Regan, C. Poirer, C. Caffrey, A. Murphy, D. Hughes, S. Caulfield, M. Cahilane, T. Kelly, D. Nealon, M. Moynihan, A. Boyle. Armagh-ND: C. McArdle, T. Cassidy, C. McGinn, P. Kelly, F. Meehan, D. Maguire, S. Butler, F. McClelland, G. Hall, M. Tiffany, P. McEvoy, B. McGrath, S. Short.

By Rory O'Donnell

Pat O'Brien Cup -Cork 3-14 New England Celtics 0-8

Cork 3-14 New England Celtics 0-8

The New England Celtics

Cork advanced to the next round of the O’Brien Cup with plenty to spare over the Celtics. The Celtics kept in touch for the first half, but in the second the Rebels netted three times as it was one way traffic.



Liam Fleming opened the scoring with a point right from the throw in. Cork proceeded to squander three goal chances. The first was a penalty chance that Mike Moynihan put the wrong side of the keeper’s right post. John Crowley and Andrew Boyle then had chances from play that were effectively blocked by Mark Molloy between the posts for the Celtics. David Hughes leveled for Cork, Hughes proved to be an asset in the Cork midfield and found himself frequently on the ball. Mike Moynihan was on form in corner forward for Cork and the rebels hit him with some good ball to run on to. The Celtics kept in touch with their opponents however. Paudie Kenneally put some well taken points over the bar for the American-born outfit, while Moynihan was the outlet for the last four Cork points. At the half it was six points to five for Cork.

Cork had a good first outing on Sunday

Cork swept away their opponents in the second half. This time the goals came, John Crowley put the first away early in the half and with points added from Boyle, David Hughes, and the flying Mike Moynihan the Celtics saw the game slip away. John Curtin added a second goal for the Corkman, and Moynihan a deserved third. Cork will face a sterner test next week when they face Armagh-Notre Dame in the quarter final.


Cork: L. Barden, J. Regan, J. Leonard, C. Power, C. Caffrey, J. Caffrey, D. Hughes, S. Caulfield, J. Crowley, A. Boyle, D. Neylon, M. Cahalane, M. Moynihan. NE Celtics: M. Molloy, R. Graber, C. Walsh, P. Kerrigan, K. Fleming, M. Peterson, D. Kenneally, J. Kenneally, P. Kenneally, L. Fleming, M. Rushton, W. Fleming, R. Kenneally.


By Rory O'Donnell

Saturday July 31 - Senior Football: Connemara Gaels v Cork

Connemara Gaels 0-17 Cork 1-11


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

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

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

Martin Kane of the Gaels sidesteps Niall Devlin.

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



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


By Rory O'Donnell

July 18 - Senior Football: Cork v Galway

Galway 0-15 Cork 1-8

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

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


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

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


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

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

By Rory O'Donnell

July 11 - Senior Football: Cork v Kerry

Cork 3-4 Kerry 1-12

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

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

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

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


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

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

By Rory O'Donnell

July 11 - Junior A Football: New England Celtics v Cork

New England Celtics 0-13 Cork 0-5

The New England Celtics recorded their first win at Junior A level thanks to a big second half performance from their big guns. Leading by a single point at half time, the veterans of the side lifted their performance and outplayed Cork in the second half, limiting the southerners to two Daniel Murphy points.

Kevin Fleming looks for an option for the Celtics.


The first half was an evenly contested affair with Kevin Cashman and Daniel Murphy accounting for Cork’s three first half points. At the other end it was Paudie Kenneally and Will Fleming who were on target for the Celtics. It was anybody’s game heading into the second half.

The Celtics fought hard to keep Cork from coming out of their own defence easily.


The Celtics came out guns blazing in the second half. Jerry Kenneally put a fine point over the bar and was followed by Pearse Lombard. Lombard had an impressive second half and recorded the two more points as the Celtics took a firm hold of the game. Cork’s defence battled gamely. Eoin Barry and Fergal Glynn tried to mount attacks in the direction of the Celtics end, but Greg Hawes was solid at corner back, and Kevin Fleming held his position well in the center. Dan Kenneally was a handful for Cork in the middle of the field. As the Celtics rolled the game slipped farther away from Cork. Dan Kenneally, Lombard, and Paudie Kenneally were on the mark down the stretch as the Celtics were in control. A great first win for the Celtics in their first season at the higher level, while Cork will probably agree that the answers were not there in the second half.

Celtics: M. Molloy, G. Hawes, C. Walsh, B. Kelly, K. Fleming, M. Peterson, D. Kenneally (0-1), J. Kenneally (0-1), P. Lombard (0-5), P. Kenneally (0-5), P. Bannon, J. Walsh, W. Fleming (0-1). Cork: L. Barden, J. Regan, J. Crowley, M. McCarthy, E. Barry, F. Glynn, S. McHugh, S. Caulfield, C. Forrier, D. Murphy, B. Rooney, K. Cashman, C. Barrett.

By Rory O'Donnell

Gaelicsportscast with Denis O'Brien

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

July 4 - Senior Hurling: Cork v Galway

Cork 0-14 Galway 1-13

It was a little bit of a strange encounter between Cork and Galway on Sunday. Cork had called for a card check on the Galway players, an exercise that delayed proceedings by about 20 minutes. Once the Galway players were deemed to be legitimate, off we went. After a first half during which the scoreboard needed to be adjusted, Cork were ahead by three points, 0-11 to 1-5. Galway stormed back in the second half during which tempers flared on the sideline, and came out on top by two points thanks a stirring performance in which all 5 forwards scored.

Cork and Galway slogged it out in Canton on Sunday.              

                                                                 

Eoin McCormack opened the scoring for Cork with a free, while Shane Murphy answered for Galway from play. Willie O’Dwyer put Galway ahead with a point, and Enda Concannon then struck the only goal of the game, which put Galway ahead by four points in the early going. Eoin Whooley had it going in the middle of the field for Galway, while O’Dwyer at corner forward was in fine form. O’Dwyer struck three points from play in the half. Cork had Ritchie Ruth to thank for a solid midfield performance, and the rebels proved a match for their opponents in the first period. Ruth pointed a sideline mid-way through the half, and later put a well taken effort from play between the posts. The score of the half came with a free from Cork center back, Eoin McCormack, from his own 65. Eoin McCormack, at corner forward, added three more points to his tally and at the half Cork led on the scoreboard by 0-11 to 1-5.

After Ruth had extended Cork’s lead to four points, Galway had a chance to get within one when Shane Maher was brought down in the box. Maher himself stepped up to take the shot, but it was saved and scrambled away. Galway, however, did narrow the gap with points from Murphy, Stephen Dineen, and James Dowling. PeterMoloney put Cork back up by two with a point, but Maher and Murphy brought Galway level with a point each. After going for a goal with a 21-yard free – and missing, Eoin McCormack again put Cork ahead, but it was Galway who had more down the stretch. Willie Hyland put a great strike between the posts, and an O’Dwyer free put Galway ahead. Maher made sure with the final score of the game. Much disappointment for Cork as a big win just slipped from their grasp.

Cork: S. Hallet, J. O’Callaghan, J. Ruddy, C. Brosnan, D. McCormack (0-1), R. Good, N. Kenny, R. Ruth (0-3), P. Moloney (0-1), P. O’Flynn, J. Moylan, B. Donovan (0-2), E. McCormack (0-5). Galway: E. Ward, J. O’Callaghan, C. O’Driscoll, J. McCormack, B. Regan, P. Nolan, E. Whooley, S. Dineen (0-2), S. Murphy (0-4), W. Hyland (0-1), E. Concannon (1-0), S. Maher (0-2), W. O’Dwyer (0-4). Sub: J. Dowling (0-2).

By Rory O'Donnell

June 27 - Senior Football: Cork v Armagh-Notre Dame

Armagh-Notre Dame 3-14 Cork 3-6

Armagh-Notre Dame comfortably took two points from a Cork side that kept themselves in the game by way of the goal, but as the afternoon turned into evening in the last game of the day, the sun set on the hopes of the rebels of pulling off a victory. Cork battled gamely for the 60 minutes, but against a more balanced Armagh-Notre Dame, which contained a deadly forward line combination of David Quinn and Seamie O’Hare, were unable to keep pace over the distance.

Dominic Magill gets his shot off under pressure.

The Brighton side picked off points early and took a commanding lead. After 15 minutes the men in orange led by five points, 0-6 to 0-1. Early on David Quinn looked as impressive as ever at corner forward, his marker, Aaron Cahilane looked like he would be in for a tough hour trying to pin down his speedy opponent. Dominic Magill opened the scoring with a well taken point, and Quinn followed with 2 quick scores. Derry O’Callaghan opened Cork’s account after 8 minutes, but the northerners continued to enjoy the upper hand. Dominic Magill stroked a nice point over from play and Seamie O’Hare put two frees between the posts. Cork came back into the game thanks to some hard work from Richard Murphy in the forward line and midfielders Derry O’Callaghan and Stephen O’Donoghue. Murphy pointed, and Arlen Ahern reduced the deficit to three points a minute later as Cork gained some footing. Colin Crowley goaled off the inside of the far post after 19 minutes the sides were level. Cork then took a one point lead and the game went from a one sided affair to very interesting contest indeed. Quinn then leveled with a superb strike. After O’Hare restored Armagh-Notre Dame’s lead with another free, Quinn.got on the end of a ball played in by O’Hare and goaled with a fine finish. Cork again got back into the game with a second goal, this time Niall Coakley finished a great move that involved Colin Crowley and Richard Murphy to make it a two point game at the break.

Cork defenders put Darren Gilsenan under pressure.

There would be no second half comeback for Cork however. Armagh-Notre Dame put a stranglehold on the game and Cork tired as time wore on. The second period opened in the worst possible fashion for the rebels, Quinn goaled a second time and O’Hare added two points. Armagh-Notre Dame now led by seven points. After Darren Gilsenan put the third goal away for the Orchard County another Cork comeback looked unlikely as key players ran out of steam. Substitute Shane McCarthy brought some spark to Cork’s forward line and tallied a goal and a point for the rebels in the late stages. A satisfactory two points for the northerners while Cork still looking for a winning formula.

Armagh-ND: D. Burke, D. Hughes, J. Cooper, F. Meehan (0-1), M. Graham, G. Gilsenan, C. Bergon, C. Brophy, P. Cadden, D. Magill (0-2), S. O’Hare (0-6), D. Quinn (2-4), D. Gilsenan (1-0). Cork: A. Seymour, A. Mackey, A. Cahilane, K. O’Leary, J. Foley, R. Kirwan, D. O’Callaghan (0-1), S. O’Donoghue (0-1), C. Crowley (1-1), R. Murphy (0-1), C. Caffrey, A. Ahern (0-1), N. Coakley (1-0). Sub: S. McCarthy (1-1).

By Rory O'Donnell

Championship Begins

The championship season opened in Canton on a beautiful Memorial Day Weekend. There were perfect sporting conditions, with sunny skies and light breeze. Ten teams took the field for the first games of the senior football championship. There were wins for Wolfe Tones, Connemara Gaels, Aiden McAnespies, Donegal, and the Shannon Blues. Donegal and Shannon Blues looked strong in their wins over Armagh-Notre Dame and Kerry respectively, while Mayo and Galway fell by a single point each to McAnespies and the Gaels. Reports to follow...

Championship Begins

Since the last post, Aiden McAnespies clamined the first silverware of the 2010 season by winning the Pat O'Brien Cup. The chamionship begins this Sunday with 5 senior football games on the schedule.

12:00 Cork v Wolfe Tones
1:15 Connemara Gaels v Galway
2:30 Aiden McAnespies v Mayo
3:45 Armagh-Notre Dame v Donegal
5:00 Kerry v Shannon Blues

Recently I had a little chat with Denis O'Brien, a former press box colleague, with some reflection on last season and looking forward to the coming one. Click on the link below and then hit play to listen.

http://www.gaelicsportscast.com/2010/05/25/60-boston-championship-preview/

Pat O'Brien Cup - First Round

The first round of the Pat O'Brien Cup was played last Sunday. I was taking a break in the White Mountains of New Hampshire - so unfortunately I do not have any reports. However, I did get the results.

Kerry defeated Cork after extra time, Armagh-Notre Dame beat Mayo by one point, and Aiden McAnespies beat the New England Celtics. McAnespies are though to the semi-final as theirs was a quarter final game.

Next Sunday's quarter finals will feature Shannon Blues v Armagh-Notre Dame and the Connemara Gaels v Kerry. Galway will play Wolfe Tones in a first round game that was postponed, and Donegal will have to wait another week to play the winners in the last quarter final game.

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).

Junior A Football: Cork v Donegal - Aug 16

Cork 1-3 Donegal 3-11

Cork and Donegal are both playoff bound in the Junior A championship, but on the basis of this display Donegal look far the more likely contenders for the title. Donegal outplayed Cork for most of the game. Once David Bell netted in the first quarter the outcome of the game looked inevitable as Cork struggled to string together more than two or three passes. Eddie O’Driscoll did well in the forward line for Cork, but the back line struggled to weather almost constant pressure from Donegal.

















Jonathan Byrne and Mike Moynihan challenge for the ball.

The sides matched each other in the points column in the early going, but after 15 minutes Donegal’s superiority in possession was translated to the scoreboard. David Bell netted and established some daylight between the teams. Donegal continued to enjoy the lions share of possession, however, did not make it count on the scoreboard. Had Donegal’s shooting been more accurate, there would have been far more between the teams. Cork did themselves no favours and were far too careless when coming out of defence and lost possession frequently as a result. John Deery and Bell added points before half time to make it a 1-5 to 0-2 Donegal lead at the break.





















David Sheehan shoots as Cork try to make their way back into the game.

Donegal made sure of the victory before the second half was 15 minutes old. Bell and Eddie O’Driscoll traded points before the Buncrana man netted his second goal, and Deery put a second away to put Donegal in a commanding 14 point lead. Eddie O’Driscoll pulled back a consolation goal for Cork with 10 minutes to go, but the rebels never looked like having a chance of getting anything out of the game. Donegal brought on several subs for the last few minutes and Brian Boyce capped of a good overall Donegal display with the last point of the game.

Cork: J. O’Toole, J. Regan, J. Whyte, J. Crowley, J. Corry, M. McCarthy, J. Curtin, J. Gaffney, D. Sheehan, M. Moynihan, M. Cahilane, B. O’Loughlin, E. O’Driscoll. Donegal: C. Murphy, S. Doherty, P. McNulty, P. O’Connor, E. Doonan, K. McGee, J. Burns, T. Caldwell, F. Grenaghan, E. McCarney, J. Deery, D. Bell, C. Rush.

By Rory O'Donnell

Sr. Hurling: Cork v Galway - August 2

Cork 1-6 Galway 3-20

Galway bounced back following last week’s defeat to Fr. Tom’s. The tribesmen dispatched Cork with a minimum of fuss and, it must be noted, in a much better tempered game than the last time these sides met. The tribesmen and were one step ahead of their opposite numbers in all facets of the game. The sharpshooting James Moylan clocked up the scores in the points column for Galway, while Peter Buckredge at center back and Sean Kelly in the middle of the field kept the prevalent flow of the game in the direction of the Cork goal. The Galway forwards capitalized and after the first 30 led by 12 points and never looked like letting up. Veteran, John Byrne netted a hat trick to round off a markedly improved Galway performance.

John Moylan points for Galway as Ronan Good tried to block.

Cork opened the scoring through Mike Allen, who pointed a free. Galway then went on a 2-12 to 0-2 tear. Moylan proved to be the main marksman for the tribe. Dubliner, Buckredge, anchored the half back line well, while midfielders Kelly and Greg Lyons held the edge over their opposite numbers in red. Galway’s goals both came from the stick of John Byrne. Byrne maintained his composure on both occasions to find the back of the net from close range. Well out of the game, Cork got some hope back right at the end of the half as Brian O’Loughlin netted, but a few more goals would be required in the second half if the rebels were to stage a comeback.

There would be no comeback as Galway kept up the tempo and the pressure on Cork’s back line. Diarmaid Lynch and Declan O’Dwyer complimented Moylan’s shooting with some well taken scores of their own. Cork sputtered and never raised their game to the level of their opponents. O’Loughlin and Allen managed a couple of points, but at the end of the game Byrne netted his third goal and Galway are back on track for the playoffs in a couple of week’s time.

Cork: P. Mannix, T. Scanlon, R. Good, T. Barrett, T. Healy, W. O’Brien (0-1), B. Butler, E. Hegarty, D. Cotter, P. Hughes (0-1), T. Kenneally, M. Allen (0-3), B. O’Loughlin (1-1). Galway: N. Roberts, T. Linnane, A. Hogan, E. Daniels, P. Buckredge, J. Kinsella, G. Lyons, S. Kelly (0-3), L. Creavin (0-1), D. O’Dwyer (0-3), D. Lynch (0-1), J. Moylan (0-12), J. Byrne (3-0).

By Rory O'Donnell

Sr. Football: Galway v Cork - July 26

Cork 1-8 Galway 0-18

Galway led from start to finish and survived a sending off late in the second half as Cork threatened to make a comeback. The result leaves Cork as the only team yet to win a game, and with three games still to play, Galway have a chance of an intermediate playoff place. Galway displayed better passing into the forward line and their defence swarmed the Cork forwards. Cork simply did not have all of the parts necessary to win their first game of the year, and played well in spurts, but not consistently enough to threaten their opponents. Galway had more options up front and the corner forward duo of Adrian Kelly and Brian Hanlon kept the Cork corner backs chasing all afternoon.

Galway's Paul Cummins Comes out of Defence.

Galway got off to a six point lead before Cork got a score up on the board. Brian Hanlon was busy in his corner forward position and was fouled for Adrian Kelly to put the first score of the game over the bar from a free. Hanlon then added a second and a third before Kelly put the fourth and the fifth point over the bar. Kelly and Hanlon maintained their duopoly on the scoring front for Galway before Cork got their first score of the game from Kieran Connolly. Galway’s passing was more coherent and the tribesmen defended in numbers when Cork had the ball. Cork always looked vulnerable at the back when Galway attacked. Hanlon added another score for Galway, and Peter Nolan and Greg Rogan rounded off an eleven point first half for Galway while the rebels mustered three.

Wesley O'Brien and Kieran Lillis Tussle for the Ball.

Cork made a few changes early in the second half and made some noise. After Adrian Kelly pointed for Galway, Cork won a penalty when Robert O’Kane was fouled in the box. Kieran Connolly took it, but the shot was too measured and Brendan Doherty saved comfortably. Niall Coakley got Cork within five points with two kicks of the ball. Coakley pointed a free and then the Carraigaline man put away Cork’s second penalty of the day. Substitute Kevin McCarthy was fouled just inside the area, and Coakley placed a well hit shot into the bottom corner. The sides traded points as Galway maintained their five-point lead. Adrian Kelly stretched the lead to six when Galway’s Alan Glynn was sent to the line with 10 minutes to go. Coakely pointed twice from free kicks to bring Cork within four points and there was hope for the rebels. Galway however, got their act together for the run in to the final whistle. Hanlon pointed a free and Greg Rogan followed with a well taken point. Galway took a short free and the St. Michael’s clubman made the finish look all too simple. Hanlon rounded off the scoring with a free kick to get Galway off the mark in the standings.

Cork: R. Phelan, J. Leonard, C. Caffrey, K. Reid, A. Cahillane, D. Kerins, W. O’Brien, R. O’Kane, S. Keaney, K. Connolly (0-2), P. Healy (0-1), J. Monahan, N. Coakley (1-5). Galway: B. Doherty, S. Melia, A. Glynn, JJ O’Neill, K. Lillis, P. Cummins, S. Gallagher, G. Rogan (0-2), P. Howard, T. Walsh, P. Nolan (0-1), A. Kelly (0-8), B. Hanlon (0-7).

By Rory O'Donnell

Senior Football: Cork v Wolfe Tones - July 19

Wolfe Tones 1-15 Cork 0-8

This was a benign looking fixture. With Cork’s season not shaping up the way the rebel footballer’s at home is going, and the Tones setting themselves up for another playoff appearance, it took a surprisingly long time for matters to be effectively settled. Cork kept themselves in the game until the final five minutes of play thanks to a flurry of scores towards the end of the first half and some good displays in the back line in the second, which was helped by some ineptitude shown by the Tones until Steven Donaghy finally put the nail in the coffin with a goal five minutes from the end. A couple of injuries to Tadgh Healy and Robert O’Kane also did not help Cork’s cause.

Wolfe Tones wing back Brian Maguire looks for a colleague.

A Wolfe Tones runaway would have expected, and after fifteen minutes of play it was looking as though that may be the case. Cork to their credit came back into the game and having trailed by five points, reduced the deficit to two at the half as they pushed hard for the last 10 minutes. Wolfe Tones looked sluggish, and perhaps a little complacent, but did not get any flow to their game. The South Boston side established an early lead. Points came from Sean McVeigh, Donaghy, Marty Farrell, Brian Maguire, and Gary Sayers. Cork looked to be in for a slow death. Not so. The southerners sprang to life in the last ten minutes of the half and the combined shooting of Kieran Connolly and Jared Monaghan pulled the rebels to within two points at half time.

Sean McVeigh looks like he got the better of this kickout.

The second half was a story of missed chances and disjointed play for both sides, neither side showed much direction in their play – and some lengthy stoppages early on may have contributed as the Tones looked like they set out their stall to put their opponents away early. Cork showed some determination in the back line, Aaron Cahalane and Paul Healy dug in. Unfortunately Cork could not convert possession into scores. The ball was handed back to the Tones backs time and again. As time went by the writing was on the wall. Tones had some good goal chances, Dan McCabe came close twice, and eventually Stephen Donaghy got the goal that ensured the points for the Tones. Donaghy got on the end of one of the best moves of the game as he steamed through the middle to bury the ball from close range. The Tones added three more points to embellish the scoreline, but will surely be looking for a better display the next time out.

Tones: D. Lyons, E. McHugh, P. Warren, D. Walsh, S. Scullane, B. Maguire (0-2), C. Canning, S. McVeigh (0-3), G. Sayers (0-2), S. Donaghy (1-2), . Comerford, M. Farrell (0-5), D. McCabe (0-1). Cork: R. Phelan, J. Leonard, A. Cahalane, W. O’Brien, P. Healy, D. Kearns, J. Monaghan (0-5), R. O’Kane, S. Kearney, K. Connolly (0-2), C. Caffrey, N. Coakley, M. Lyons (0-1).

By Rory O'Donnell

Senior Hurling: Cork V Tipp - July 19

Cork 1-12 Tipperary 4-14

Tipperary put paid to a game Cork side with a good display from the half back line and some timely goals late in the first half. As would be expected from an encounter between the Munster giants, the game got a little testy and referee Trevor Kelly saw fit to issue some yellow cards on occasion to keep the players minds focused in the right direction. After establishing an early lead, Cork conceded three quick goals before half time, which ultimately proved to be their undoing.

David Young played well at center back for Tipp .

Cork took the field well kitted out and started the game well to boot. Paul Mannix saved well early in the game to prevent a Tipp goal, and Ronan Good opened the scoring with a fine point from wing back. Shane Menton answered for Tipp, while Mike Allen and Paul McGrath then traded points. Cork’s good play was rewarded with a goal after 10 minutes. Allen made a run and handpassed across the face of goal for Darragh Cotter to double on from close range. Cork stretched the lead to four points, and Kelly issued the first of the bookings as the niggle crept in. Tipp lifted their game on the half back line, thanks in large part to David Young and Eoin Ryan, and the lift in their efforts was underlined by a determined score from Paul McGrath. However, the rebels seemed to be holding their own. Then Tipp struck with three quick goals in the last 10 minutes of the half. Pat Howard booted the first over the line after a great run from midfielder Brian Howley, then a minute later David Young dropped a tame looking high ball into the box and Shane Menton stretched to clip the ball into the corner of the net. Just before the half time whistle, Menton scored Tipp’s third goal to put them five points ahead. Mike Allen pulled a point back for Cork just before the half time whistle.

Tipp's Brian Howley bursts through the Cork rearguard to set up Tipp's first goal.

Cork tried to lift it in the second, but never got closer than the four points that separated the teams at half time. Tipp pointed through Paul McGrath right from the re-start, and Menton and Pat Howard added to the Tipp tally. Then two more bookings came. Allen and Michael Lyons got Cork back to within four points, but then a Tipp goal effectively ended the contest. A ball down the middle was left up to Paul Mannix in goal for Cork and Pat Howard to challenge, and the ball ended up breaking into the back of the Cork net. End of story for Cork. Cork did continue to press but could not penetrate the Tipp rearguard, who did well when called upon. Tipp added scores from Menton, and a fine point from Young. Pat Howard and Cronan Dempsey put the icing on the cake with scores at the death for Tipp to put them into a solid second place in the standings.

Cork: P. Mannix, K. Price, R. Devereaux (0-1), R. Good (0-2), T. Healy, W. O’Brien, B. Butler, J. Fitzgerald, M. Lyons (0-2), D. Cotter (1-0), E. Hegarty (0-1), B. O’Loughlin, M. Allen (0-6). Tipp: J. Howard, M. Heffernan, J. Heffernan, E. Ryan, D. Young, N. Ryan, C. Dempsey (0-1), B. Howley (0-1), C. McGrath (0-1), C. Hynes, P. Howard (2-2), P. McGrath (0-4), S. Menton (2-4).

By Rory O'Donnell