Fr. Tom Burke’s 3-18 Galway 1-12

Conditions were good for the first outing of the season for the teams.  There was some good hurling on show and some well taken scores.  Tom’s came away with a handsome win by the time all was said and done.  There were some great performances throughout from several Tom’s veterans.  James Dooley did well at corner back, Dylan Costello in the half back line, and Chris Donoghue and Cormac Joyce-Power in the forwards.  Joyce-Power made good use of the ball that came into his corner, coming away with 10 points from play.

Paudge Egan with a free for Tom's.

With Tom’s leading by six points to three in the early going, a Gary Kelly goal solidified Tom’s advantage.  Galway responded to the goal well, scoring four points on the trot.  Adam Kenny, John Coleman and David Lordan the scorers.  Tom’s, however, finished the half well with three unanswered themselves.  Dylan Costello probably with the pick of the bunch from inside his own half.  Tom’s 1-11 Galway 0-8 at the break.

The second half saw Tom’s pull away.  The all-important first 10 minutes after the restart went to Tom’s.  Four balls into Joyce-Power’s corner and the four more points for the Limerickman.  Adam Kenny stemmed the tide for Galway with a desperately needed score, but the final quarter saw Tom’s add two more goals.  Shane Dooey, who was set up by Joyce-Power, and Shane Ryan capitalized on their chances.  A couple of scuffles flared up in the latter stages, but were handled well by referee Jimmy Rigney.  Adam Kenny netted late for Galway to improve the look of things on the scoreboard.

Tom’s:  Sean O’Brien, James Dooley, Brian Flynn, Dylan Costello, Donal Coughlin, David Burke, Seamus Higgins, Paudge Egan, Shane Dooey, Chris Donoghue, Shane Regan, C. Joyce-Power, Garry Kelly.

Galway:  Ray Grealish, Michael Lennon, Colm Daly, Cian Clifford, Seamus Loftus, Aidan Murphy, Martin Doyle, Sean Lordan, Adan Kenny, David Lordan, Enda Feeney, John Coleman, David O’Grady.

By Rory O'Donnell

Sheehan Cup Semi-Final: Wexford v Tipperary

Tipperary 3-14 Wexford 3-16

Wexford, who fielded 2 American born players in their starting lineup, earned a place in the Sheehan Cup final after a close encounter with a good looking Tipperary side.  The game ebbed and flowed and could have gone either way, but it was Wexford who finished with back to back points to seal the deal in the final minutes.

Wexford and Tipp played a well contested game Sunday.

The first 30 minutes were entertaining.  There was some good hurling from both sides, and some well taken scores.  Liam Moloney, lining out at center forward for Tipperary had a first half haul of 5 points from frees, while his Wexford counterpart, Shane Ryan accounted for three points from long range frees.  Mark Kavanagh and Sean Nally looked strong for Tipperary at wing forward and midfield respectively - Kavanagh pointed well from out on the wing on two occasions - though Moloney was Tipps big dangerman when on the ball.  Wexford were a match for their opponents and played the ball well.  With the teams tied at 6 points each Dan Sweatland took advantage of a rebound off the keeper and netted from just outside the small square for Wexford.  The goal was soon erased, Eoin Moriarty was on hand to double a rebound from a good save by keeper Dara O’Callaghan into the Wexford net.  Tipp could have added to their tally, but efforts at goal, rather than taking the points, from close range frees went for naught, and Moloney put the last two over the bar to put Tipp into a 1-8 to 1-7 half time lead.  Those frees were to prove costly in the end.

Brendan Phelan was effective after being introduced
in the second half.

The second half was just as close as the first.  Tipp added to their lead soon after the restart with points from Moloney and Eoin Moriarty, however Wexford, who just introduced Brendan Phelan and Kieran O’Dea to the fray, opened up a chink of daylight between themselves and their opponents, although the game was always in the balance.  The Wexford back line did a good job absorbing balls played into their direction, and with a lot of scoring options in their forward line looked like they may just hold the slight edge in the end. 

It was a Jamie Keogh goal half way in that set the platform.  Keogh’s low shot slipped under James Maher and into the net, turning a 2 point Tipp lead into a one point Wexford advantage.  Conor Sheehan and O’Dea added points and a goal stood between the sides and Wexford now had a lead to work with.  Tipperary managed to level matters with a Sean Delaney drive into the back of the net, but it was immediately canceled out by a goal strike from substitute Michael Orpen, just 10 seconds between the scores.  Wexford had added another point when Tipperary won a penalty after Sean Nally was pulled down, and it was dispatched with little fuss by Moloney.  Wexford were hanging on to their lead and ended well with points from Sean Delaney and Sweatland to see themselves into the final against Fr. Tom Burke’s.

Tipp:  J. Maher, S. McGarr, C. Neville, P. Moriarty, J. White, S. Fortune, C. Dempsey, S. Nally, M. Moriarty, L. Moloney, M. Kavanagh, S, Delaney, E. Moriarty.  Wexford:  D. O’Callaghan, J. McCarthy, D. Walsh, G. Lundy, T. Moloney, S. Ryan, J. Kehoe, E. Flaherty, D. Sweatland, E. Kavanagh, R. Sludds, D. Binden, K. Joyce.

By Rory O'Donnell

Sheehan Cup Final: Fr. Tom Burke's v Tipperary

Fr. Tom Burke’s 1-12 Tipperary 2-11

It was probably a harder earned win than expected, but Tipperary came through against a battling Fr. Tom’s to add the Sheehan Cup to their 2015 trophy haul.   From the start it was clear that Tom’s were not about to let the favoured Tipperary side have it all their own way.  Tipp had to work for their scores, while Tom’s took advantage of their chances to push their opponents all the way.  Tipperary had that extra bit of class to get the scores when they were needed to come out on top by two points.

Sean McGarr presented with the Sheehan Cup
by John Cunningham.

Tom’s dug in and fought hard over the first 30 minutes and were very much in the hunt at the end of the first half.  The senior championship holders kept pace with their opponents on the scoreboard through the free taking of David O’Mahoney, and held Tipp’s tally down with committed hurling, challenging for each and every loose ball.  Tipp’s fouling in the half back line provided David O’Mahoney with plenty of opportunities that were well within range and the Laois man capitalized.  

Tom’s held a slight edge coming into half time, but Tipp finally broke through the Tom’s rearguard and won a penalty just before the break.  The shot was put away by Colm Galvin, the first taken at the ICC under the new rules, where just the goalkeeper is on the line.  Tipp had pointed through Galvin, Joe Healy, and Oisin Hickey in the first period.  At the break it was Tipp 1-5 Tom’s 0-6.

The second half continued to be as tight as the first.  After Tipp added two points to their lead, Tom’s edged in front themselves  by following points from O’Mahoney and Howley with a goal.  Kevin Rice found a route through the Tipp defence and the Antrim man offloaded to O’Mahoney whose finish was executed with the expertise of a seasoned operator.  Tom’s hopes were short lived as Tipp answered in kind through who else but Galvin.  A path to goal opened up for the Clare starlet and with the well taken finish Tipp’s lead was restored. 

Sheehan Cup Winners 2015 - Tipperary

The teams traded points in the final quarter, and while the game was still within reach for Tom’s the westerners would have to work hard to turn their opponents.  Keeping their noses in front with points from Galvin and Oisin Hickey, Tipp held off Tom’s efforts at late game heroics to hold on to the two point victory.

Tom’s: K. Flynn, S. Lyons, J. Dooley, D. Costello, S. Dolan, D. Burke, S. Higgins, R. Driscoll, K. Rice, G. Kelly, S. Howley, D. O’Mahoney, K. Dunne.  Tipp:  S. Delaney, S. McGarr, D. Moloney, M. Gauthier, J. Rigney, W. Egan, J. Heavey, C. Dempsey, C. Galvin, P. Moriarty, R. Sludds, K. Lee, O. Hickey.

By Rory O'Donnell

Sheehan Cup Semi-Final: Tipperary v Galway

Galway 0-5 Tipperary 2-14

Tipperary sent a message to the other hurling clubs on Sunday afternoon by advancing to the Sheehan Cup Final with a convincing win over Galway.  Tipp held the trump cards, and looked sharp and fit.  The forward line did not need any breaking in time and from the beginning the scores flew over the bar.  Galway made a better game of it in the second half, however, the outcome was never going to be in doubt.

Galway faced an excellent Tipperary side on Sunday.

Tipperary had the game in the bag by the time the half time whistle sounded.  Both wing forwards pointed early on, Colm Galvin and Rory Sludds got Tipp off the mark.  After Tipp went three points ahead, a goal came in unusual fashion.  Galway keeper Ray Grealish swung to take the puckout, however, unaware that the hurley was cracked underneath the tape grip, the end flew off and the ball fell to a grateful Oisin Hickey who put the ball away.  Tipp were in the ascendancy and continued to pick off the points from various angles and distance before Galvin netted a second from close range.  At the break Tipp were 2-11 with Galway yet to score.

Colm Galvin has a go for Tipp.

Galway opened the second half brightly with a couple of points from Darren Donoghue and Darragh Murray, although at this stage the horse had bolted the barn.  The objective at that stage was for a better showing in the second period while Tipp coasted, satisfied to maintain the distance between the sides.  Tipperary looking like they will take some beating even at this early stage in the season and will meet Fr. Tom Burke’s in next week’s final after Tom’s handily beat Wexford Friday night.

Galway:  R. Grealish, M. Lennon, J. Kinsella, W. Welch, P. Durcan, D. Swetland, D. Murray, C. Stack, C. Finn, L. Allen, D. Donoghue, M. Kelleher, E. Daniles.  Tipp:  S. Delaney, D. Moloney, S. McGarr, J. Healy, J. Rigney, Marty, P. Moriarty, C. Dempsey, C. Galvin, A. McRedmond, R. Sludds, K. Lee, O. Hickey.

By Rory O'Donnell

Senior Football Championship Opens Sunday!

Sunday next sees all 8 of Boston’s senior football teams in action to open the 2015 championship.  With 4 games on the schedule there is plenty of action to look forward to.  An early win or two can make all the difference when the middle of August rolls around and playoff spots are on the line.  Clubs have been busy bolstering their home based panels and and getting into shape for the season.  Some clubs have already landed top tier names, and with the coming weeks seeing the addition of away players, the season promises to hold plenty of twists and turns as well as the best live gaelic football and hurling action in North America.

Shannon Blues started 2015 the way they ended 2014 - with a piece of silverware to celebrate.

First up are Aidan McAnespies and Kerry at 1:15 next Sunday.  Things have not gone well in the early season for Kerry.  Some key home based players have been lost to injuries in the cup and challenge matches.  An ankle injury means Ian Whelan’s participation is in doubt, while Mike Godley is likely out for the remainder of the season at least.  Kerry will still look to Robbie Croft and Ronan O’Driscoll to keep the ship pointed in the right direction.  McAnespies have brought in Offaly man Johnny Brickland in the middle of the field, as well as marksman Sean McConville, to bolster the home based panel and will fancy their chances in this game.  

Christopher's Tom Fahy in action.

Christopher’s and Galway meet in the second game.  Both teams missed out on the playoffs last season and will be eager to take this chance at a couple of points to get off the mark.  Christopher’s were disappointed with last year’s showing and will be hoping to get this year off to a winning start.  With Tipperary man, Tom Fahy, leading the way in the forward line they might just do that.  Galway have struggled the last couple of years having made the semis in 2012 where the tribesmen fell to Donegal.  Galway are now the lone club flying the football flag in Brighton and although the last two years have been barren, the team has always proved to be a tough nut to crack.  Eoghan Kavanagh’s injury will keep him out for the season, a huge loss for the Brighton men.  However, with Danny Reddin, Kevin Cummins, and Jamie Kehoe on the field Galway have a solid home base to build upon.  An early win will be important for them on Sunday.   

Connemara Gaels have it all to do to overturn a hot Shannon Blues team.  The reigning champions look well positioned to defend their title having captured the Pat O’Brien Cup in impressive fashion last Saturday.  The Blues have managed to acquire the services of Austin Stacks midfielders Wayne Guthrie and Greg Horan to anchor the side for the season, while the rest of the squad looks well focused on retaining the championship if last Saturday’s performance is anything to go by.  The Gaels have made some nice additions to the team in David Black, Jack Purcell, and Tommy Higgins however it will take a massive performance to come out with the win on Sunday.

Cormac Joyce-Power and Wolfe Tones will be looking for a good start Sunday.

Donegal and Wolfe Tones will provide the grand finale to Sunday’s action.  Donegal are looking to make 2015 a season to remember having taken a little bit of a back seat last year.  Already Leitrim’s Emlyn Mulligan is in the fold, while Gavin “fireman” Gallagher and Killybegs man, Matt Smyth, are back for another crack at a Boston senior championship.  Wolfe Tones have always been a leader in the early season and once again look to be serious about capturing that elusive first Boston senior football championship.  The home based stalwarts Gary Brilly, Cormac Joyce-Power, Mike O’Brien and Marty Farrell will need some help to carry the team over the finish line in first place this year.  Maybe 2015 will be Blue and Navy – the story starts Sunday!

In addition, Friday night sees Tom’s and Wexford meet in the first Sheehan Cup semi-final, while at noon on Sunday, a hotly fancied Tipperary team, featuring Clare prodigy Colm Galvin meet Galway in the second semi-final.  Tipp recently traveled to New York and captured the 7-a-side trophy and will be looking to take a step towards a second piece of silverware this year.  

The Ladies footballers got creative and will be playing a blitz on Sunday to determine which two teams will make the Orla Benson Cup final for the following week.

So, things really starting in earnest for the Boston GAA.  If past seasons are anything to go by there will be plenty of twists and turns, controversy and conversation pieces, and of course, top class GAA action over the next 3 months.

By Rory O’Donnell

Sheehan Cup Q'/F: Fr. Tom Burke's v Worcester

Worcester 1-6 Fr. Tom Burke’s 3-20

After a tight first half in which Worcester proved to be a good match for Tom’s, the game opened up in the second and Tom’s pulled away thanks in large part to an early flurry of scores from Laois marksman David O’Mahoney.  O’Mahoney put away a quick 2-2 to extend the Tom’s lead to 11, and the outcome was in little doubt from then on.

Terry Doran in action for Tom's.

The North American Junior C Champions got off to a flying start with an early goal from PJ Heffernan.  David O’Mahoney and Dan Swetland had traded scores to get things going.  Heffernan’s goal was followed by a Liam Kelly point as Worcester opened a 4 point lead.  Tom’s gradually worked their way into the game and were level by the time the half was 15 minutes old.  Jack Martin almost had a goal, however, Jared Gorry saved well and Martin satisfied himself with a point.  Points came from O’Mahoney, Chris Donoghue, and Terry Doran as Tom’s built patiently from the back.  Worcester worked hard throughout.  The O’Shaughnessy brothers gave little away in midfield, however, an ankle injury to talisman player, Dan Swetland near the end of the half did not help Worcester’s cause.  A free from Swetland just before the break closed the gap to three points at the break, 1-4 to 0-10 in Tom’s favour.

Worcester Hurling Team.

Tom’s made some positional changes to begin the second half, with O’Mahoney moving to the half forward line from midfield, and a goal was netted by the Laois native.  O’Mahoney followed with another two points and a second goal as the game slipped away from Worcester.  Aidan Davoran pointed, which along with Jack Martin, got two American born players on the scoreboard for Tom’s.  Matin netted a third goal for Tom’s after pouncing on a rebound off the keeper and from that point on the result was in little doubt. 

Worcester:  Jared Gorry, M. Dufrene, S. Mahoney, D. Smith, D. Swetland, T. Jackson, Seamus O’Shaughnessy, Sean O’Shaughnessy, M. O’Connor, L. Kelly, P. Mannion, M. Jones, PJ Heffernan.  Tom’s:  D. Fox, J. Dooley, J. Dowling, D. Burke, D. Costello, R. Driscoll, S. Higgins, D. O’Mahoney, A. Davoran, C. Donoghue, G. Kelly, J. Martin, T. Doran.  

By Rory O'Donnell

June 1: Sheehan Cup - Fr. Tom Burke's v Tipperary

Tipperary 1-7 Fr. Tom Burke's 4-15

Fr. Tom Burke's advanced meet Wexford in the Sheehan Cup semi-final with an impressive victory over Tipperary.  One goal in the first half, followed by three in the second underlined a win in which Tom's looked a level ahead of their opponents.

Tom's proved a bit too strong for Tipp on Sunday.

Tom's took the half time break with a handsome 10 point lead.  A David Ryan goal following some excellent work by Alan Burke on the wing propelled Tom's into an eight point lead.  With a forward line that was capable of finishing from multiple angles, Tipp struggled to hold their opposite numbers in check.  Points came from the sticks of Shane Howley, David O'Mahoney, Oisin Burke, and Seamus Higgins.  Rory Shields saved Tipperary from going in having conceded 2 goals after a fine double save off O'Mahoney and then Ryan.  Cronan Dempsey accounted for Tipperary's scores and at the break it was a 1-10 to 0-2 lead for Tom's.

Tipperary noticeably lifted their effort in the second half, but the Tom's domination could not be overcome.  After Tom's rattled off points from Alan Burke, Simon Dunne, and O'Mahoney, Oisin Burke buried a second goal for Tom's.  Tipp managed to finish the game strong, a goal from Mark Kavanagh and a slew of late points saved some pride.  Tom's banged in a couple of goals before the final whistle and advance to meet Wexford in the final.

Tipp:  R. Shields, C. Gillis, P. Moriarty, S. McKillop, A. McRedmond, S. McGarr, C. Dempsey, K. O'Callaghan, M. Moriarty, D. Cooney, S. Moriarty, B. Regan, M. Kavanagh.  Toms:  S. O'Brien, J. Costello, G. Joyce, D. Costello, C. Joyce-Power, J. Dooley, S. Howley, S. Dunne, O. Burke, S. Higgins, D. Ryan, D. O'Mahoney, A. Burke.

By Rory O'Donnell

June 9 - Sheehan Cup Final: Fr. Tom Burke's v Tipperary

Fr. Tom Burke's 0-9 Tipperary 5-20

Tipperary won the first trophy of the hurling season with an impressive win over Fr. Tom Burke's.  A fine first half performance saw Tipp go into the break with an eight point lead, and after the Premier men netted early in the second half the Tom's challenge waned and the outcome was a foregone conclusion for the final 20 minutes.

Tipperary Hurlers - 2013 Sheehan Cup Champions

At the break it was 1-11 to 0-6 in favour of Tipp thanks to some dominant play in the back line from Pat Moriarty, Geoff Brennan, and Robert O'Donnell.  The points were spread across the front 5, while a goal from Sean O'Connor knocked some of the wind out of Tom's.

Tipp Captain Cronin Dempsey presented with the Sheehan Cup
by Boston Northeast Board Chairman, John Farrell.

Tipp ensured that the second half would see no Tom's comeback with an early goal from wing forward, David Butler.  Tom's tried to work their way back into the game with some hard work from Gordon Joyce in the half back line and Shane Howley at half forward, but to no avail.  Tom's managed to put a couple of points together to make the scoreboard have a better look about it, but traffic was almost one way.  Another goal from Kieran Morris, followed by a fine score from Robert O'Donnell added to Tom's misery.  Cue the subs for both sides as for the final 15 minutes Tipp had the cup in the bag.  Peadar Boran who entered as a sub and added 2 goals and point to embellish the win.  First blood of the hurling season to Tipp going into the championship next week.

Tipp:  J. Logue, M. Powers, S. Staunton, P. Moriarty, R. O'Donnell, G. Brennan, C. Dempsey, S. McGarr, C. Flynn, D. Butler, E. Murray, TJ Lawler, D. Butler.  Tom's:  C. Horan, R. Blake, G. Cronin, G. Joyce, M. Deegan, S. Higgins, S. Couglin, D. Laffelly, S. Howley, A. McGreeney, C. Joyce-Power, C. Horan, M. Dervan.

By Rory O'Donnell

Gaelicsportscast update with Denis O'Brien

I spoke with Denis this morning regarding the latest GAA developments in Boston.

http://www.gaelicsportscast.com/2013/05/21/499-quiet-before-storm-in-boston/

Sheehan Cup Hurling: Tipperary v Wexford

Wexford 0-8 Tipperary 0-9

It was a heavy hot Saturday afternoon that greeted Tipperary and defending cup champions, Wexford with the winners to face Fr Tom Burke’s in the Sheehan Cup final next Sunday.  The sides delivered an entertaining game of hurling, with Tipperary winning by the narrowest of margins.

Cronin Dempsey takes a sideline cut.

At the end of the first period the sides were tied at three points each.  Scores were at a premium as each defence had the better of things.  Wexford had Eoghan Kavanagh and Kevin Sheerin in the forward corners, but John Roche and John Kindregan had the better of their men.  Donal Redmond shone at the back for Wexford in the first half as the ball made its up and down the field, but rarely went dead, never mind for a score.  After Tipp missed their first two chances, Cronin Dempsey put the ball between the sticks.  Tom Maloney answered for Wexford. Playing in the middle of the field, Maloney was at the forefront of the Wexford effort.  Sean Moriarty, who always looked dangerous on the wing put Tipp ahead, and added another soon afterwards.  Maloney drove from midfield as the half wound down and out it over himself, and just before the whistle Dominic Magill put the score of the game over from his own 65-yard line.

Wexford's Tom Maloney on the attack.

The second half opened with two points apiece and Wexford looked like they were picking up the effort.  After Ray McKeown and Moriarty put Tipp ahead by two points, Maloney, Jason Foley, and Jamie Keogh fired three unanswered over the bar to put Wexford in the lead.  Moriarty and Mark Jordan, who had moved to the edge of the square pulled Tipp within a point.  Wexford had a golden chance to put themselves four to the good and possibly put the game away.  Good work by Eoghan Kavanagh on the edge of the square ended up with the ball going across to the unmarked Jason Foley on the edge of the small square, but Foley was unable to connect and the chance went awry.  Sean Moriarty, Jordan, Colm McCrory and Pat Moriarty, brother of the aforementioned Sean who was playing at half back, put four straight over the bar between them to give Tipp a three point lead with minutes left.  Wexford in the meantime had missed four good scoring chances. Kevin Sheerin put Wexford’s last two chances over the bar from frees.  The last one required a goal, and the shot was low but went inches over the bar to end the game.  So, next Sunday there is sure to be a new name on the cup with Tipperary and Fr. Tom Burke’s in the final.

Wexford:  E. Spruhan, P. Nolan, D. Redmond, B. Dalton, D. Magill, JJ O’Neill, J. Foley, T. Maloney, C. Kerins, P. Ryan, J. Kehoe, K. Sheerin, E. Kavanagh.  Tipp:  S. Delaney, J. Kingregan, J. Roche, P. Moriarty, A. McRedmond, A. Callnan, C. Dempsey, F. O’Doherty, S. Moriarty, R. McKeown, M. Jordan, J. McGrath, C. McCrory.  


By Rory O'Donnell

Sheehan Cup: Tipperary v Fr. Tom Burke's

Tipperary 1-5 Fr. Tom Burke’s 0-8

The hottest day of the young season saw Tipperary and Fr. Tom Burke’s do battle in the second game of the Sheehan Cup.  Similar to last week, Tom’s got off to the better start, but Tipp pulled themselves back into the game and salvaged a draw.  Tipp may be disappointed not to have recorded a victory, especially since they had played most of the second half with a two man advantage.  Tom’s lost Paul McGrath and Ciaran Moore to sendings off.  The first for an off the ball shoulder in the back and the second for a pull across the ankles.

Cormac Joyce-Power clears for Tom's.

Tom’s had the better of things in the first half, though by no means were lording it over their opponents.  James Dooley was involved early, the man from Athenry opened the scoring and then set up the second for Cathal Egan.  Seamie Higgins followed with a free.   Tom’s were playing well from the back line and looked to be a class above Tipp early on.  After Ciaran Moore made it four points to the good for Tom’s Tipp woke up a little and started to get into the game.  After 17 minutes John Roche put a free over the bar to record the first score of the game for the Premier men.  Just before the break Tipp added another to make it a 0-4 to 0-2 game at the break.

Tipp wing back Aidan Callnan
fires the ball down the line.

The wheels fell off the wagon somewhat for Tom’s in the second half.  After the westerners added two points to their tally, Sean Moriarty showed his skills with the stick and the Kerryman put a lovely point over the bar for Tipp following a run down the wing.  Then disaster struck.  Paul McGrath was shown a red card for his off the ball indiscretion, and right after play restarted, Ciaran Moore was also sent to the line after a dangerous pull.  Tipp now had the opening to snatch a win.  John Roche and Egan traded scores as Tom’s played with three forwards, and the backs stuck to their task well.  Tipp eventually created the opening however, Moriarty and Colm McCrory got the ball across to Roche who turned and put the ball into the roof of the net.  Tipp were now a point to the good, but Tom’s leveled affairs with an Egan point.  With the final whistle, Tom’s find themselves sitting on two draws, while the winner of next game between Tipp and Wexford, if there is a winner, will be top of the Sheehan Cup table with two games played for each team.

Tipp:  S. Delaney, J. Kindregan, D. O’Brien, A. McRedmond, M. Jordan, A. Callnan, C. Dempsey, N. O’Grady, J. Roche, C. Wallace, S. Moriarty, J. McGrath, B. O’Regan.  Tom’s:  D. Fox, S. O’Brien, J. Doran, P. Heneghan, C. Joyce-Power, D. Moore, P. McGrath, J. Dooley, L. Gunian, S. Higgins, S. Howley, C. Moore, C. Egan.

By Rory O'Donnell

Sheehan Cup First Round: Wexford v Fr. Tom Burke's

Wexford 2-10 Fr. Tom Burke’s 1-13


Wexford and Fr. Tom’s opened the Kieran Sheehan Cup competition with an entertaining game of hurling on Sunday afternoon. At the end of the first half it looked as if Tom’s had affairs in hand, but Wexford came back in the second to split the difference and earn a point.

Fr Tom's Cathal Egan is pursued by Dominic Magill.

Tom’s had the better of it in the first half as Wexford looked a little sluggish. Shane Howley opened the scoring for Tom’s, and Wexford popped over three points before Tom’s gained control of affairs. It began with a goal from Cathal Egan. Seamus Higgins shot was saved well by Ed Spruhan, and JJ O’Neill looked to clear the rebound but Higgins got his stick to the loose ball and it hot the roof of the net. The points began to flow for Tom’s from that point on. Cormac Joyce Power held the line at center back, and scores came from Howley and Egan. With Wexford on the ropes, Colm Kerins landed a goal that came from sheer determination, followed by a point and Wexford were back in it. At the break it was 1-9 to 1-5 in favour of Tom’s.

Wexford's Gags O'Connor is highest for this ball.

The second half saw Wexford continue to whittle down the deficit. The Slaneysiders were much more in the game, and center forward Kevin Sheerin played a big part in the comeback. Wexford were winning much more ball in critical areas and stunted the Tom’s attack. A goal from a penalty brought Wexford almost on level terms. Sheerin stepped up to take it and landed the ball into the back of the net. Back to back frees from Tom Moloney ended up putting Wexford into the lead, and Shane Howley answered with one for Tom’s to level matters before the final whistle sounded. Tom’s might be a little disappointed not to have taken both points, but on the overall balance of play a draw was a fair result.

Wexford:  E. Spruhan, P. Nolan, D. Redmond, B. Dalton, D. Magill, JJ O’Neill, T. Moloney, J. Kehoe, C. Kerins, K. Sheerin, G. O’Connor, P. Ryan, A. Cass.  Tom’s: D. Fox, S. O’Brien, J. Doran, P. Heneghan, CJ Power, D. Moore, P. McGrath, K. Moore, S. Howley, S. Higgins, D. Hession, C. Egan, T. Doran.

By Rory O'Donnell

Sheehan Cup Final - Fr. Tom Burke's v Wexford

Wexford 2-10 Fr. Tom Burke’s 0-15



2011 Sheehan Cup Winners - Wexford



It was a dramatic final as Wexford overturned a six point deficit in the final five minutes to put their name on the Sheehan Cup. Tom’s led from the 13th minute until the end of normal time, and on two occasions when Wexford looked like they might overturn the lead, Tom’s reasserted themselves on the game. Tom’s let victory slip from their grasp in the final minutes and could not shut the door on Wexford in the final run-in to the full time whistle.



The first half was marked by some uncharacteristic missed opportunities from both sides. Shane Howley missed a couple for Tom’s, as did the usually reliable Shane Murphy for Wexford. It took a little while for the scores to come. Wexford had an opportunity to strike first after winning an early penalty when Shane Murphy was held. Murphy took it himself and fluffed the rise. Tom’s saved on the line – it was a harbinger of the half that lay ahead for the Wexford Corner forward who was off target for the remainder first period. Tom’s played well as a team and got some great work from midfielders James Dooley and Trevor Kelly. In fact, Tom’s played well from goalkeeper to corner forward and swarmed Wexford so as not to let their opponents settle. Dooley was a prime example of the effort made by Tom’s and the Athenry man had a hand in scores from Fran Keenan and Kelly. David Busteed, lining out at corner forward for Tom’s, put the finishing touches on a well worked point after showing a great turn of speed. Wexford looked a little knocked out of their stride by the hard working Tom’s. Murphy opened the scoring with a point after 7 minutes for Wexford, and four minutes later Howley squared the game with a point from a free he won himself. Tom’s worked themselves into a five points to two lead, and with Tom’s in the ascendancy, Gearoid O’Connor put a lovely score over from the wing for Wexford, however, the wing forward was having a quiet enough day. After Howley made it 0-6 for Tom’s to 0-3 for Wexford, Peter Ryan found himself through with Dermot Fox to beat, but Fox was up to the shot. Tom’s led by three at the break.



Wexford had the scores level one minute into the second half. A quickly taken free from Murphy found the Tom’s back line napping and Ger Griffey put it into the far corner of the net. Colm Kearns followed with a point and Wexford were now ahead by a score. The effort was noticeably lifted by the model county men, but Tom’s were not backing down. The westerners did not lose their focus and soon had the lead back to three points. Howley (4), Seamus Higgins, and Ciaran Moore each notched scores and with the final quarter of the game approaching Tom’s led by five points. Wexford pulled it back to three with points from substitute John Heathering and Shane Murphy free, but once again Tom’s restored the six point advantage with scores from subs Tommy O’Brien and Conor O’Callaghan, and another from corner forward Busteed. Tom’s were looking good to collect the cup, but it all fell apart in the final five minutes. A soft enough 21-yard free was awarded to Wexford, and Ger Griffey hammered it low and into the back of the net. Having been able to reestablish themselves earlier in the game, Tom’s could not buy a point at this stage. Wexford sensed that the win was still there for the taking. A free from Heathering brought Wexford within two, and two points from Griffey in the space of a minute drew Wexford level. With the game in injury time Shane Murphy, who had missed all day, put the winning point over the bar in injury time. Tom’s had a last chance to force extra time with a free from the wing, and in cruel contrast it was Howley who mishit the free with the last puck of the game. Wexford saved their best until it was almost too late, though even the Brighton men will concede that it was a game they stole.



Wexford: E. Spruhan, G. Dunphy, D. Redmond, B. Dalton, D. Magill, J. Kenny, J. Kehoe, J. Foley, C. Kearns (0-1), P. Ryan, G. O’Connor (0-1), S. Murphy (0-4), G. Griffey (2-2). Sub: J. Heathering (0-2). Fr. Tom’s: D. Fox, S. O’Brien, D. Nealon, P. Heneghan, B. Harding, E. Cummins, T. Kelly (0-1), J. Dooley, S. Howley (0-7), S. Higgins (0-1), F. Keenan (0-1), D. Busteed (0-2), C. Moore (0-1). Subs: T.O’Brien (0-1), C. O’Callaghan (0-1).

By Rory O'Donnell



May 22: Sheehan Cup - Tipperary v Fr. Tom Burke's

Tipperary 2-7 Fr. Tom Burke’s 1-12


Tipperary and Fr. Tom’s served up a fantastic Sheehan Cup hurling contest. Tom’s worked hard for the entirety of the game, and in spite of almost letting it slip on a couple of occasions, kept their focus to earn the win. Trevor Kelly led the effort from the middle of the field, while Shane Howley in the forward line put in a man of the match performance with his accurate shooting and a critical score from play in the late stages of the game.

Tipp Captain Cronan Dempsey gets under the puckout.

Fr. Tom’s had the better of things for most of the first half and came out of the gates strong, clearly eager for a result. Shane Howley was the star in the forward line picking off scores from play and from frees. Tom’s went into a two-point lead in the early going thanks to Howley’s sharp shooting. After Andy McRedmond got Tipp on the board with a point, a goal came from the Blue and Gold. Cronan Dempsey won the ball in the middle of the field and his long ball might have been tipped by corner forward, Ian McMahon, before crossing the goal line. Tom’s kept up the tempo however and refused to let the setback upset them. Some solid performances in the back line from Donal Moore, John Dowling, and Dermot Nealon held the Tipp forwards in check. Howley and Fran Keenan capitalized with points to draw Tom’s level before Howley put his side ahead with a superb score from play. Tom’s won a penalty shortly afterwards, Paul Henehan was fouled while in possession, and penalty speacialist, Fran Keenan, drilled the ball into the back of the net. Tipp finished the half with points from Darragh Kealey and a long range free from John Roache to keep their side in touch. Tom’s 1-5 to 1-3 for Tipp at the break.


The second half was a tense exciting affair. Tom’s clearly saw the chance for the win was there for the taking. Keenan opened the scoring with a free to extend Tom’s lead. Paul McGrath, who put in a lot of work for Tipp, answered with a fine score. Trevor Kelly, playing a commanding role in the middle of the field, extended Tom’s lead with two fine points from play. Tipp however picked up the pace. Paul McGrath and John Roache pointed three times between them to a single point from Howley for Tom’s and with just a goal in it the spoils were still there for whichever side wanted it more. Tom’s were again bitten by a high ball into the box that ended up in the back of the net, and with four minutes left it was all square. Tom’s dug deep. Shane Howley restored the lead with a hard earned point, a critical score at that stage, and Ciaran Moore put the finishing touches to the win the final score of the game. A great game of hurling, especially at this early stage of the season.

Tipp: M. McGrath, J. Kindregan, J. Roache, J. McGrath, J. Duane, A. McRedmond, C. Dempsey, P. McGrath, N. O’Grady, D. Kealey, M. Daly, I. McMahon, S. Sinnott. Tom’s: D. Hession, S. O’Brien, D. Nealon, E. Cummins, D. Moore, J. Dowling, J. Dooley, F. Keenan, T. Kelly, S. Howley, S. Higgins, P. Heneghan, K. Mooney, C. Moore.


By Rory O'Donnell

Sheehan Cup Second Round: Galway v Tipperary

Tipperary 0-21 Galway 1-7


Galway and Tipperary contested the opening game of the day. It was a complete turnaround from last week for Tipp who registered 21 points. Tipp no doubt were eager to make up for last week’s sub-par showing against Wexford, while for Galway it was their first outing of the year. The first half was mostly an evenly contested affair, however, Tipp came to grips with the game and ran away with it in the second half. Cronan Dempsey put in a captains performance in the middle of the field, while at the back John Roache and Brian Howley played well.

Tipp's John Kindregan and Galway's John Moylan.

There was not much between the teams in the first half. Stephen Brown opened the scoring for Galway with a well taken point. Tipp answered with three, one each from Andy McRedmond, Paul McGrath, and a John Roache free taken from well inside his own half of the field. In between John Moylan almost had the ball in the back of the net for Galway, however, Darragh Kealy got down well to make the save. Galway had trouble finding the men in the full forward line and many’s a ball dropped in was easy picking for Kealy in the Tipp goal. The Galway back line did well clearing their lines, center back Killian Murphy was busy for much of the half. Tipp stretched their lead as the half wore on and the pressure began to tell, yet fortunately for Galway not by as much as they could have. Tipp missed several good scoring chances. McRedmond pointed again and Roache fired over a ’70. Galway answered with points from Brown and Moylan, but Tipp had control over affairs. Towards the end of the half Tipp put four unanswered points over the bar, Brian Howley, McGrath, and Colm McCrory hitting the mark. At the half Tipp led by a score of 0-9 to 0-5.

Tipp killed the game off early in the second half. Playing with the breeze, it was a procession of scores from the men in blue and gold. Tipp opened up a 12 point lead before Galway could register a score. Every Tipp forward got on the scoreboard, however the pick of the scores in the second half came from Cronan Dempsey in midfield and John Roache from corner back. Galway tried to shuffle the forward line around, however could get nothing going save for a late consolation goal from Stephen Brown. A great turnaround performance from Tipp after last week’s flop, and Galway looking for some improvement next week.

Galway: C. Fahy, J. Kinsella, G. Sherlock, M. Brooks, K. Murphy, K. Finnegan, D. McMahon, A. Callnan, S. McComiskey, S. Brown, L. Byrne, N. Galvin, J. Moylan. Tipp: D. Kealey, J. Kindregan, J. Roache, A. McAnespie, B. Howley, J. Duane, C. Dempsey, M. Jordan, A. McRedmond, P. McGrath, C. McCrory, J. McGrath, S. Sinnott.


By Rory O'Donnell

Sheehan Cup Second Round: Fr. Tom Burke's v Wexford

Fr. Tom Burke’s 1-8 Wexford 2-18


Tom’s and Wexford met in the second game of the day, the winner would go top of the table for the Sheehan Cup. Wexford followed last week’s impressive display with another victory with room to spare. Tom’s took a while to get into the game, but laid down the gauntlet to Wexford early in the second half, however, the Brighton based side weathered the storm and finished out the game comfortably.

Fr. Tom's met a very good opponent in Wexford and will be hoping for a better outcome in their next game.

The first half breeze heavily favoured Wexford, and the model county built up an early lead. After Ciaran Moore had opened the scoring with a point for Tom’s, Gearoid O’Connor put three quick points over the bar that was followed by Tom Moloney Shane Murphy points. Tom’s had chances to score, but failed to take advantage against the wind. Mid-way through the half a goal came for Wexford. A long free dropped into the square and the Tom’s backs failed to adequately deal with it, Shane Murphy got a stick to it to put it over the line. Shane Howley pointed twice from frees to keep Tom’s in shouting distance, however, Wexford managed to maintain the distance between the teams with points from Dominc Magill and Murphy. Tom’s got a lift with a goal from Ciaran Moore late in the half. Fran Keenan opted to go low with a close range free and Moore put the rebound into the back of the net. Tom’s picked up their effort and worked that bit harder to get to the loose balls and challenges, and it looked like we had a real contest on our hands. At the half Wexford held a five-point edge on the scoreboard.


The Tom’s that started the second half was a different one than for most of the first. A heightened sense of urgency was evident in the play of the westerners. Ciaran Moore and Seamus Higgins reduced the deficit to a single score, however, Wexford restored their advantage thanks to two points from Shane Murphy. Shane Howley put two nice points over the bar, but Wexford would not budge. Tom Moloney and O’Connor, along with Dominic Magill buckled down to meet the renewed challenge, while Donal Redmond did great work at corner back for Wexford. O’Connor pointed twice to make it a seven point game with ten minutes to go, and the coup de grace was delivered by Eoghan Kavanagh who finished well from an acute angle to score Wexford’s second goal. Wexford setting the pace in the early season and have to be anticipating a cup final appearance in early June.

Tom's: D. Fox, S. O’Brien, D. Nealon, E. Cummins, D. Moore, J. Dooley, F. Keenan, T. Kelly, S. Howley, S. Higgins, P. Heneghan, K. Mooney, C. Moore. Wexford: G. Grifffey, B. Dalton, D. Redmond, G. Dunphy, D. Magill, JJ Kenny, T. Moloney, J. Foley, G. O’Connor, P. Ryan, C. Kerins, S. Murphy, E. Kavanagh.

By Rory O'Donnell

Sheehan Cup First Round - Wexford v Tipperary

Sheehan Cup First Round: Wexford 2-14 Tipperary 0-1

Wexford showed some great early season form in their first outing of the year.

The Sheehan Cup opened Sunday with the meeting of the top two Boston hurling teams of the last few years. It was Wexford, however, that looked shockingly the more impressive of the two in a one-sided victory

Wexford laid down a marker for the rest of the season with this game. Assisted by a stiff breeze the Boys of Wexford established a substantial early lead. Tipperary forwards in contrast were trying to survive on scraps and what few chances fell their way were sent adrift of the posts. Wexford had too many weapons in their arsenal for Tipp to deal with. Tom Maloney, Gearoid O’Connor, and Shane Murphy were in fine form. Gags O’Connor put the first point of the 2011 hurling season over the bar with a fine effort from play and traffic was mostly headed in one direction from then on. More points followed from Colm Kearns, Jason Foley, Peter Ryan, and free taking of Shane Murphy was spot on. Before the game was 10 minutes old Wexford held a 7-point lead. Tipp managed to generate some scores but the wind in their faces accuracy suffered. With the back line under pressure and the forwards unable to make much of what fell their way, a comeback seemed unlikely in the second half. At the break Wexford held a handsome 11 points to no score for Wexford.

Peter Ryan and Cronan Dempsey Challenge for the ball.

The wind did not do much to assist Tipp in the second half. Brian Howley got the Tipp men on the scoreboard with an early free, and briefly it looked as though a revival could be on the cards, but it was back to business as usual as the minutes ticked by. Tipp had chances to make the scoreboard look a little better, but opted for going for goal early on and the Wexford men manning the goal line were up to the challenge. Murphy pointed a pair for Wexford, and then the inevitable happened as Wexford hit the back of the net twice. Gearoid O’Connor was played through the Tipp defence, and made no mistake with just the keeper to beat. Tom Maloney netted the second and that was all she wrote. Impressive stuff from Wexford. Back to the drawing board for Tipp.

Wexford: E. Spruhan, D. Redmond, B. Dalton, J. Kenny, D. Magill, G. Dunphy, J. Foley, T. Moloney, C. Kearns, P. Ryan, G. O’Connor, S. Murphy, E. Kavanagh. Tipp: M. Daly, K. Kindericks, J. Kindregan, J. Roache, B. Howley, A. McAnespie, J. Duane, C. Dempsey, A. McRedmond, D. Kealy, J. Howard, P. McGrath, J. McGrath.


By Rory O'Donnell

Sheehan Cup Begins, O'Brien Cup Semi-Finals

Sunday, May 1st:

1:00 Sheehan Cup: Tipperary v Wexford – Field A

2:00 O'Brien Cup Semi Final: Connemara Gaels v Wolfe Tones – Field B

3:00 Sheehan Cup: Fr. Tom’s v Cork – Field A

4:00 O'Brien Cup Semi Final: Cork v McAnespies – Field B

The Sheehan Cup for the hurling clubs begins next Sunday with the first of what will be a 5 round competition.  The top two teams after the 5 rounds are completed will meet in the final on June 5.  Tipp, Wexford, Tom’s, and Cork get a run on Sunday, while Galway get a rest.

Wayne Callaghan in action for the Gaels.

The Pat O’Brien Cup reaches its penultimate stage on Sunday.  The first semi-final involves the Gaels and Wolfe Tones.  The Tones fielded a physical looking side and overcame a strong Donegal challenge on their last outing.  That said, the main threat from the Tones comes their forward pair of Dan McCabe and Marty Farrell.  The Gaels corner backs will have their hands full.  Also, strong around the middle, the Tones could have an advantage in this area of the field.  The Gaels have shown themselves to be a hard working team that plays an up-tempo style of football.  With plenty of talent sprinkled throughout the field, including Wayne Callaghan, Barry Murphy, PJ Kelly, and Eamonn McGlinchy, the Gaels are well balanced.  With the home-based signing deadline of April 30 behind us some new faces will likely be in the fold for both sides.  Looking forward to a good game of football between these teams.

The second semi-final sees Aidan McAnespies face Cork.  Cork have had to beat the New England Celtics and Armagh-Notre Dame to get there.  McAnespies put on an amazing about-turn to overcome Christopher’s in the last round.  With Trevor Kelly back in the fold, and Mike Moynihan looking sharp in the full forward line Cork have played some good football.  David Hughes in midfield and Colm Caffrey at center back have also put in some good performances for the rebels so far.  McAnespies will present a different animal for the Corkonians.  Philip Toner and Colm McCrory present two top notch forwards for Cork to deal with.  Elsewhere, Niall Kerr and Neil Donaghy will be strong in the middle of the field, while the McAnespies back line will not be as easy a door to open.  In spite of two good wins for Cork so far, I’d be surprised if Sunday was not the end of the road.

By Rory O'Donnell