August 13 - Senior Hurling: Wexford v Tipperary

Tipperary 3-15 Wexford 2-9

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

Paddy Fanning for Tipp.

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

Stephen White on the attack for Wexford.

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

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


By Rory O'Donnell

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

Dublin Hurling Gains a Valuable Asset - Ryan O'Dwyer

Birthplace of the GAA. Winners of the first All-Ireland hurling championship. John Doyle and Nicky English. Semple Stadium. 26 All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championships. It may not take as long to travel from Dublin to Tipp these days, but in terms of hurling tradition the distance is vast. One of the newest additions to the Dublin Senior Hurling squad comes from the rich hurling tradition of Tipperary. Along with Conal Keaney, Ryan O’Dwyer has joined the Dublin hurling set up and given a boost to the 2011 prospects of the metropolitan’s hurlers. A native of Cashel, O’Dwyer has quite a hurling resume despite his relatively young age of 24 years. O’Dwyer made his senior county debut with the Tipperary hurlers in 2007, the year of the trilogy with Limerick, and has won National League title and Munster titles. A supremely talented athlete, O’Dwyer has also represented his native county in football at senior level.

Ryan O'Dwyer feels big things are not far away for the Dubs.

How does a lad from Cashel end up donning the sky blue of the Dubs? Having moved to Dublin after accepting a teaching post at St. MacDara’s in Templeogue, O’Dwyer joined Kilmacud Croke’s and was approached by Anthony Daly about joining the Dublin hurling squad. O’Dwyer was given an offer he could not resist. “I jumped at the opportunity” said O’Dwyer. “It was a no-brainer really. Dublin are a team on the way up, a top tier team. If you take Kilkenny and Tipperary out of it, Dublin are definitely third or fourth in line in the country. On any given day Dublin would give either of those two a run for their money.”

Hurling tradition runs deep in Tipperary, and while there has been a tremendous focus on the small ball game in Dublin over the last decade, there is still a lot of catching up to do in the history department. O’Dwyer feels that the breakthrough to the beginnings of establishing a hurling tradition in Dublin is very close, and that the obstacles are more mental than anything else. “Skill-wise there is absolutely no difference between Dublin and Tipperary,” said Ryan emphatically. “Tipp expect to win because their history dictates it. Dublin does not have that history. Dublin might take the field and think that there is no chance of beating the other lads. If Dublin can get out of that mindset we can win. Dublin have to learn not to fear other teams.”

Despite being a little nervy at the entering the Dublin setup, O’Dwyer has been extremely happy with the transition. “The change has been brilliant. I’m enjoying it. I was nervous going down to training the first night, not sure if lads would be thinking who does this guy think he is. Everybody involved has made me feel welcome.” said O’Dwyer. The Tipp native continued, “Lads went out of their way to talk to me and make me feel included. That made it so easy.”

Dublin have had a good start to the league with a draw against Munster Champions, Waterford, and a recent win against the All-Ireland Champions, O’Dwyer’s native Tipperary. “It’s not very often you get to play the All-Ireland champions in Croke Park” enthused O’Dwyer. “It was an exciting experience. National League, Croke Park under lights, if you couldn’t get up for that you can’t get up for anything.” O’Dwyer was coming back from a shoulder injury and did not start the game but came on late in the first half. “I got back from the injury sooner than I expected. Usually that type of injury takes 6 weeks to recover from, but I was back in 3. I worked harder on that than on anything in my life. My main aim was to get on the pitch, and not just because it was Tipp. It would have made no difference if it was Galway or anybody else. It was a double header with the footballers and there was a lot of build up to it. I had to be out there.”

Dublin have several one-off notches in their belt over recent years, and at minor and under-21 level have experienced success. However, a major success such as a National League title, Leinster championship, or All-Ireland remains elusive at senior level. O’Dwyer feels that the breakthrough is not far away, and while in the near term expectations have to be realistic, winning has to be the goal. “Somebody told me that Dublin’s main aim should be to stay in Division 1 of the league.” O’Dwyer discounts that assessment. “You play to be the best, our goal should be to win Division 1 and win a Leinster championship with it. I believe Dublin will win Leinster sooner rather than later.”

O'Dwyer in full flight for the Wexford Hurling Club vs Tipp in Boston.

O’Dwyer spent the last two summers in Boston playing with the Wexford Hurling Club and the Galway Football Club. O’Dwyer won a North American Championship with Wexford in 2009, but that year had lost the Boston final in controversial circumstances. O’Dwyer did not start that Boston final as he had injured his leg, but came on in the second half and Wexford almost won it, however, a last second goal was disallowed. The disappointment still sticks with O’Dwyer, but he could not say enough about his time in Boston. O’Dwyer clearly feels that he has a home away from home in the States. “I can’t speak highly enough of the lads out there. I had the time of my life,” gushed O’Dwyer. “I made friends for life, any time I go to America I know I’ll have a place to stay in Boston. The lads there would do anything for you. It means so much to them. “ O’Dwyer was committed to the cause of the clubs he played with, and was also impressed with the standard of play. “The hurling out there is as strong as anything I’ve played. The Wexford team I was on would be as good as a top 2 or 3 team in Tipp. You’ll have the best summer of your life out there, but you’ll hurl serious,” he added.


Dublin senior hurling has gained a valuable asset in O’Dwyer. The man comes to play and there is no doubting his enthusiasm. Talking does not seem to be a problem for him, but he can also do his talking on the field. If making the collective push for the big breakthrough in Dublin hurling is the sum of many small individual pushes, there no doubt that O’Dwyer will account for a bit more than a nudge.

By Rory O'Donnell

Sun August 22 - Senior Hurling Semi-Final: Galway v Wexford

Galway 4-19 Wexford 1-10


Galway progressed to the senior hurling final as they defeated last years finalists, Wexford, in a surprisingly one sided game. Galway adapted to the wet, heavy conditions and with their forward line on song, the tribesmen established a nine point half time lead. Wexford’s performance in the second half was much improved, however, scoring was something that Wexford were having trouble with. The difference between the sides was so great that there was little to excite the neutrals in the crowd in the second half. Wexford did not have the services of Ryan O’Dwyer or Stephen White to avail of, both players a big loss against a Galway side that came out swinging.

Galway's Aidan Callnan clears his lines against Wexford.

Galway held a decided advantage at the end of the first half. The forward line fired on all cylinders. The two Willies, O’Dwyer and Hyland, accounted for eight of Galway’s eleven first half points. With the free taking duties, Hyland had eight to his credit, and O’Dwyer two at the end of the first 30. Wexford struggled to adapt to the conditions, while Galway dug in and did a good job keeping Wexford’s forward line from doing much damage. In the half back line Aidan Callnan and Eoin Whooley worked hard on the wings and Brian Regan held center back well. An early goal for Galway helped settle the westerners. Hyland played a long ball in and Enda Concannon got a touch to direct the ball past Edmund Sprune in the Wexford goal. Wexford hit back shortly afterwards. Peter Ryan netted in similar fashion for Wexford. JJ Kenny’s shot from a tight angle was batted down by Eric Ward and Ryan was waiting to tap the ball into the net from close range. Wexford, however, struggled to come to grips with the game and Galway looked purposeful in controlling affairs. After opening a four point lead, Galway hit with a second goal, again from Concannon. Dominic Magill and JJ Kenny put back to back points over for Wexford, but Galway strung four scores together in the run in to half time. At the half it was Galway well ahead, 2-11 to 1-5.

Galway continued their blitz in the second half. After Hyland extended the lead with a point, Willie O’Dwyer ran through the Wexford defence and belted home Galway’s third goal from 21 yards. Still 25 minutes to go and the game was pretty much up for Wexford. Galway’s lead was extended to 13 points mid-way through the half, and while Wexford’s performance was a notch or two higher than it had been in the first half, putting points on the scoreboard proved to be a tough endeavor. Wexford were forced to go looking for goals early. A Joe Maher 21 yard free was drilled at a wall of maroon shirts and bounced off it. Soon afterwards substitute James Foley found himself clean through, but his low shot was acrobatically saved by Eric Ward. Galway saw out the game with a trolley of points from Concannon and Hyland. Concannon completed his hat trick of goals in injury time. Galway may not have expected to have it so easy against Wexford. Tipp next Sunday will be an entirely different matter.

Galway: E. Ward, P. Nolan, S. Curley, A. Callnan, B. Regan, Whooley, G. Lally (0-1), S. Dineen, S. Maher (0-1), W. O’Dwyer (1-2), W. Hyland (0-11), S. Murphy (0-1), E. Concannon (2-4). Wexford: E. Sprune, B. Dalton, B. Healy, S. Prendergast, D. McGill (0-2), D. Redmond, D. Lyng, J. Kehoe (0-1), G. O’Connor (0-3), J.J. Kenny (0-1), T. Maloney, J. Maher (0-1), P. Ryan (1-0). Sub: J. Foley (0-2).


By Rory O'Donnell

Saturday Aug 21 - Junior Hurling Sem-Final: Fr. Tom Burke's v Wexford

Fr. Tom Burke’s 2-8 Wexford 0-12


Tom’s trailed for almost all of this junior hurling semi-final, and the first lead that they held was in injury time. Trailing by four points early in the second half, Tom’s dug deep and set themselves up for a dramatic injury time winning goal, scored by Robbie Croft, who had entered as a substitute.

Two Tom's men under the puckout.

Wexford held the advantage in the early exchanges. Dave Power’s free-taking was good and Wexford took advantage of frees blown their way. Power opened the scoring with a free, and that was followed by two James Foley strikes from play. Tom’s leveled the scores with a goal from Robert Griffin. A long ball from Aidan Staunton hit Griffin on the edge of the square and Griffin finished well. However, with Wexford’s defence clearing their lines well and the midfield moving the ball well, the Brighton side soon restored their lead. Niall Maloney and Dave Power put three points over the bar between them. Eugene Cummins put Tom’s lone point of the first half over the bar with a fine effort, and at the break it was Wexford by two point, 0-6 to 1-1.

Tom’s enjoyed the advantage of a slight breeze in the second half, but it was Wexford who struck first to start the second period. Colm Kearns put a nice strike over the bar right out of the gates and Dave Power made it a four point Wexford lead soon afterwards. The sides traded scores, David Hession put a 65 over the bar for Tom’s and Colm Kearns answered for Wexford. Tom’s raised their efforts and with 20 minutes to go sensed that a win was there for the taking. Gary Hannifey and Robbie Croft had entered the fray for Tom’s. Hannifey got very involved at wing forward, while Croft’s major contribution would come at the very end. A point from Mark Waldren and another long free from Hession cut Wexford’s lead in half, and Robert Griffin reduced it to one. Tom’s drew level after Dave Power had restored Wexford’s lead to two, Hession and Hannifey the responsible parties. After Dave Power put Wexford one to the good, and yellow cards were issued to Mark Gordon and Mark Waldren, it looked as if Tom’s would come up short. Tom’s had one last chance. Dermot Fox came out from goal and dropped a long bomb into the Wexford square. Croft grabbed the breaking ball and amid a crowd of defenders, booted the ball into the back of the net. Tom’s hung on for the last couple of injury time minutes and advance into the junior hurling final where they face Tipperary.

John Joe O'Neill clears for Wexford.

Tom’s: D. Fox, L. Guinan, M. Markham, M. Gordon, E. Cummins (0-1), A. Staunton, P. Staunton, K. Mooney, D. Scullane, D. Hession (0-4), J. Dooley, R. Griffin (1-1), M. Waldren (0-1). Subs: G. Hannifey (0-1), R. Croft (1-0). Wexford: E. Spruhan, JJ O’Neill, P. Nolan, T. Murphy, J. Hanley, S. Gallagher, C. O’Caireallain, P. Grace, N. Maloney (0-1), C. Kearns (0-2), C. McArdle, J. Foley (0-2), D. Power (0-7).


By Rory O'Donnell

Senior Hurling: Fr. Tom Burke's v Wexford - Aug 8

Fr. Tom Burke’s 2-10 Wexford 0-16


Tom’s earned a point when two were really needed to maintain their hopes of playing into late August. Tom’s fought hard for the 60 minutes, but against a Wexford side containing a handful of players that look like they were born with hurls in their hands, a little more then hard endeavor was required to take full points. Wexford enjoyed the majority of the possession in the second half, but two goals from Tom’s in the second period resulted in level scores when the final whistle sounded.

JJ Kenny played a big part for Wexford at center forward....

By the time the first half was done Tom’s enjoyed a two point lead. Fran Keenan fired the first three points of the game over from frees, one from inside his own 65. Wexford opened their account with a Gearoid O’Connor point, and that was followed with a score from JJ Kenny. Kenny was on form at center forward for Wexford, and chalked up two more points from play before half time. Ger Reddin got on the scoreboard for Tom’s, and Keenan continued to be on the mark from frees. After Gary Brennan put Tom’s a goal ahead with a point from play, Joe Keane was called on to make a fine save and keep Wexford goalless in the first half. Jamie Kehoe pointed the rebound and at the half Tom’s led by two points, 0-8 to 0-6.

....while his counterpart, Fran Keenan was instrumental for Tom's.

Wexford found their form in the second half. Brian Dalton looked impressive in the half back line, while Kehoe kept things moving in the middle of the field. Tom’s hit with an early goal from a Keenan 21-yard free that was drilled low and hard. Wexford had a lot of work to do to get back in the game. After Stephen White pointed from a free, Joe Maher took over the marksman duties and did well. Maher put three frees in a row over the bar, and Phil Fanning pointed from play level affairs. Keenan restored the lead for Tom’s with a point from play. After Maher leveled matters again, Tom’s put a second goal away. A long free from Keenan dropped on the edge of the square and it looked like Gary Brennan got a stick to it to put it in the corner of the net. Tom’s now ahead by two points inside the final ten minutes – was a win on the cards for the Tom’s lads? Wexford leveled yet again, Tom Maloney and Maher, who put a great point over from midfield, the scorers. With 26 minutes gone Conor Neylon gave Tom’s the lead yet again as they continued to fight hard for the victory, and Wexford saw Maher miss three shots in a row, one free and two from play. However, Stephen White leveled affairs with a free late in the game and both sides missed chances to win the game down the stretch. The draw suits Wexford as they now sit on 6 points and look good for the semi-finals.

Tom’s: J. Keane, S. O’Brien, C. Horan, J. Dowling, D. Moore, D. Neylon, T. Kelly, L. Mulhearn, G. Brennan (1-1) G. Reddin (0-1), F. Keenan (1-7), S. Howley, C. Neylon (0-1). Wexford: G. Griffey, B. Healy, S. Prendergast, D. Redmond, S. White (0-2), B. Dalton, D. Lyng, J. Kehoe (0-1), G. Fennelly, JJ Kenny (0-4), J. Maher (0-6), G. O’Connor (0-1), R. O’Dwyer. Sub: P. Fanning (0-1), T. Maloney (0-1).


By Rory O'Donnell

July 11 - Senior Hurling: Wexford v Tipperary

Tipperary 2-16 Wexford 1-11

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

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

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

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

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

By Rory O'Donnell

NACB Senior Hurling Final: Wexford v Tipperary

Wexford 3-15 Tipperary 2-8

It was Wexford versus Tipp Mark II for the North American Senior Hurling Final, albeit with a slightly different complexion as some of Tipp’s key players had returned to Ireland during the week. Wexford gained a measure of revenge for last weeks defeat with a handsome win. The Game was neck and neck until mid-way through the second half when Wexford raised the intensity a notch or two and pulled away with some fine scores.

The sides traded points to get things underway, and with the sides tied at three points a piece Ryan O’Dwyer goaled from close range. O’Dwyer looked more comfortable on his injured knee than a week ago, and was back to his up tempo running style. After Stephen White put Wexford four points to the good with a point Tipp came back at their opponents. Daithi O’Mahoney put two frees over the bar and then Tipp won a penalty. Pat Howard made no mistake with the shot. Paul McGrath pointed before half time to put Tipp one to the good at the break, 1-6 to 1-5.

The first fifteen minutes of the half saw the sides unable to separate from each other. Mike Heffernan and McGrath points were matched by Paddy Breen and Tony Murphy for Wexford. Wexford then raised the tempo a little and the challenges began to adopt a little bit a heavier air about them. Wexford started to work the ball well into the forward line, and captain Dominic Magill started to get control of the half back line. Jim Howard was called on to make a great save in the Tipp goal, but Wexford started to pick off several unanswered points. Jamie Kehoe and John Walsh put three over the bar between them before O’Dwyer goaled for the second time. With Tipp looking like they were fading the outcome began to appear inevitable. Murphy, O’Dwyer, and Walsh pointed to put Wexford eight points ahead and White then delivered the coup de gras with a superbly taken goal. White went on a solo run and cleverly tipped the ball over the defender before whipping home a shot that Howard had no chance of stopping.

With the clock ticking down, Paul McGrath’s frustration got the better of him as he saw red for an incident while play was stopped, and a consolation goal came from Daithi O’Mahoney. A reversal in outcomes from last week, but a split of the trophies seemed an appropriate end to the year since there was very little between the sides all season.



Wexford Captain Dominic Magill accepts the North American Trophy from former GAA President, Joe McDonagh, a great advocate for the GAA abroad. The first few lines of Dominic's speech is included.

Wexford: G. Griffey, P. Nolan, E. O’Shea, B. Dalton, D. Magill, J. Walsh, S. White, D. Redmond, P. Breen, K. O’Rourke, R. O’Dwyer, P. Ryan, T. Murphy. Tipp: J. Howard, M. Heffernan, J. McGrath, N. O’Grady, D. O’Mahoney, C. Power, C. Dempsey, B. Howley, P. Howard, C. Kavanagh, D. Kealey, P. McGrath.

By Rory O'Donnell

Senior Hurling Semi-Final: Tipperary (Boston) v Na Fianna (San Fran)

Tipperary 1-16 Na Fianna (San Fran) 3-9

Tipperary and Na Fianna played a tremendously exciting semi-final, and Tipp gained revenge for last year when they fell at the semi-final stage to the San Franciscoans. The last puck of the game from corner back, Daithi O’Mahoney decided it. Tipp won a free on their own 65 and the Islegate clubman put it over to put Tipp into an all Boston final against Wexford.

Na Fianna's John Fox runs at the Tipp defence.

Na Fianna got off to a flying start with two early goals. Eamonn Brennan put both away as the corner forward waltzed through the Tipp defence to finish from close range. Pat Howard and Paul McGrath had each pointed for Tipp between the goals, but Na Fianna looked the stronger side the early going. Wallace, John Fox, and Aidan O’Sullivan each pointed and Na Fianna led seven points. Tipp worked their way back into the game. Cronan Dempsey and Noel O’Grady lifted things around the middle, and the free taking of Pat Howard and O’Mahoney made the west coasters pay for defensive indiscipline. O’Grady and John McGrath scored a couple of nice points from play, and with Tipp trailing by three points, Tipp won a free about 30 yards from goal. Paul McGrath took a short one to O’Mahoney,and O’Mahoney’s shot found it’s way into the net to level the scores heading into half time.

Tipp's Paul McGrath rounds his marker to score a lovely second half point.

Tipp played some nice hurling in the opening stages of the half. Two Pat Howard frees put them in the lead for the first time in the game, but center back John Fox goaled for Na Fianna. Howard brought the sides level again with a free, and Na Fianna won a penalty which was blocked on the line. Mike Lawlor mopped up with a point and the westerners led again. Pat Howard and Conor Kavanagh brought Tipp back ahead with two points, and yet again the lead changed hands as Na Fianna pressed for the victory. Lawlor pointed twice as at times the Tipp defence was opened up, but Na Fianna failed to deliver the fatal blow. Jim Howard made showed a steady nerve on several occasions and Tipp somehow remained in contention heading into the last few minutes. Again it was fouls that proved to be the undoing of Na Fianna. Pat Howard drew Tipp level with a free and Tipp then spurned a few good chances to go ahead. Then came the deciding score from O’Mahoney and Tipp meet Wexford for the North American.

Tipp: J. Howard, M. Heffernan, D. O’Mahoney, C. Power, N. O’Grady, B. Howley, C. Dempsey, B. Lonergan, P. Howard, D. Kealy, C. Kavanagh, J. McGrath, P. McGrath. Na Fianna: M. Bargary, B. O’Hehir, M. Sheedy, G. Wheelock, J. Fox, T. Carroll, Wallace, D. Young, A. O’Sullivan, S. Byrne, M. Lawlor, B. Walsh, E. Brennan.

Boston runners up, Wexford, faced Harry Bolands of Chicago in the first semi-final and came out winners by a score of 5-10 to 1-10. The game was level early in the second half. Wexford led by three points at half time, and after Boland’s leveled the scores with a goal, Wexford pulled away. Kieran O’Rourke from the back line lifted Wexford’s performance with some forays into the Boland’s back line. After Tony Murphy put Wexford a point to the good the floodgates opened and Wexford netted three times and pointed once to run out comfortable winners in the end.

By Rory O'Donnell

Senior Hurling Final

Wexford 1-9 Tipperary 0-14

Tipperary finally overturned Wexford’s dominance of the Boston hurling scene over the last three years with a fine overall display of hurling in a game that held a controversial ending. With Tipperary ahead by two points and no time left on the clock, Wexford dropped a 65 into the square and in the schmozzle that ensued, it seemed at first as if Wexford had scored the winning goal. After consulting with the umpires, the referee restarted play with a throw-in on the 21 yard line and seconds later blew the final whistle to the delight of the Tipperary players and supporters.

Tipp's Eoin Ryan fights off the challenge of Sean Herlihey.

Tipperary were slightly ahead at the end of the first half thanks to some well taken scores. After Wexford had the better of the early exchanges, Stephen White got started with three points from frees, to one score from James McCarthy for Tipp. Tipp settled into the game and proceeded to pick off the scores. Tipp were in the ascendancy for most of the remainder of the half as Wexford found it hard to release themselves from the shackles of their opposite numbers. Tipp’s back line did a great job marshalling the Wexford threat, and previously unheralded forwards stepped up and produced. Conor Kavanagh sprang to life at wing forward and accounted for two great scores for Tipp. James McCarthy and Paul McGrath also accounted for five points between them. Ger Griffey was solid between the posts for Wexford as he found himself under plenty of pressure balls dropping under the crossbar, and Griffey made some great stops throughout the game to keep his side fromfalling too far out of touch. Stephen White accounted for Wexford’s only point from play in the first half, and Tony Murphy two from frees. Tipp led by two points at the break, eight points to six.

Owen O'Shea and Dominic McGill make sure James McCarthy given no quarter.

Tipp stretched their lead early in the second half with two James McCarthy points and a third from Conor Kavanagh. Wexford saw fit to throw caution to the wind and introduced the injured Ryan O’Dwyer into the fray. O’Dwyer made a difference, even in his less then one hundred percent state of being. O’ Dwyer set up White for Wexford’s first point of the second half, and Sean Herlihey added another, but Tipp quickly canceled out the scores with two points from McCarthy. Wexford’s corner backs’ Owen O’Shea and Kieran O’Rourke did well in helping keep Tipp for netting what would be a decisive goal. With 10 minutes to go Wexford got what they needed from substitute Dylan Kehoe. Tony Murphy found some rare space inside the Tipp 14 yard line, and room to shoot, and James Howard saved well but Kehoe was alert to the rebound and the goal brought Wexford back to within 2 points and plenty of time left. Kehoe followed up with a point and almost leveled the scores but the shot flew sailed just wide.

James McCarthy gave Tipp a cushion with a point in the 28th minute, but Wexford pressed for the winning goal as time was almost up. Jim Howard again saved well from White, and Wexford won a 65. Another 65 followed as Howard made a second good save but Tipp could not clear the ball decisively. The third 65 dropped into a crowd of players and Wexford began to celebrate a goal. After consultation with the umpires, the referee restarted play on the 21 and within seconds sounded the final whistle. A curious end to the game, but few will argue that over the 60 minutes Tipp were deserving winners.

Wexford: G. Griffey, O. O’Shea, K. Rourke, B. Dalton, J. Walsh, D. McGill, S. White (0-5), D. Redmond, P. Breen, S. Rackard, S. Herlihey (0-1), J. Kehoe, T. Murphy (0-2). Sub: D. Kehoe (1-1). Tipp: J. Howard, M. Heffernan, D. O’Mahoney, E. Ryan, D. Young, B. Howley, C. Dempsey, C. McGrath, B. Lonergan, P. Howard (0-1), C. Kavanagh (0-3), J. McCarthy (0-8), P. McGrath (0-2).

By Rory O'Donnell

Senior Hurling Semi-Final: Galway v Wexford

Wexford 2-19 Galway 2-7

Wexford earned the chance to defend the Boston championship that they hold with a blistering display of scoring in the second half. Stephen White helped himself to a tally of eight points in the second period, both from frees and play. Coming off Tuesday night’s last minute playoff win over Fr. Tom’s, Galway had gotten off to a great start and at one stage led by six points. Wexford drew their opponents to within one point by half time, and took off in the second half as the defence shut down Galway’s forward line, and White and Tony Murphy leading the way on the scoresheet.

Greg Lyons is pursued by Stephen White as he bears down on goal.

Imor Creaven opened Galway’s account with a goal in the third minute. White and John Moylan traded points, and Wexford put two points together from Sean Herlihey and White. John Byrne netted a second goal for Galway with Moylan the provider. With the Galway midfielders, Sean Kelly and Greg Lyons, doing well, the tribesmen stretched the lead to six points. Richie O’Connell got on the scoresheet, and Creaven and Moylan added a point each. Wexford, however, showed that were just getting warmed up having had a long layoff since their previous game. Sean Herlihey made a run from wing forward and fired the ball into the back of the net to cut Galway’s lead in half. Brian Dalton and White then each pointed to reduce the Galway lead to a point heading into the second half.

John Byrne moves in to challenge Brian Dalton.

Wexford opened the second half with six points to none for Galway. White accounted for 5 of them, making Galway pay for indiscretions no matter how far away from goal. Tony Murphy accounted for the sixth. Galway’s first scoring chance came in the 10th minute in the form of a 21 yard free that Moylan chose to hit low for goal, and the shot was saved. John Byrne pointed in the 11th minute, a badly needed score for Galway, and Moylan brought Galway within four points soon afterwards. With Galway struggling to get themselves back into contention Wexford eased away, scoring a goal and six points in the final 15 minutes, to a single point for Galway. The Wexford defence held dangerman Moylan, while White motored in the middle of the field and Tony Murphy caused havoc when the ball came within his reach. Murphy accounted for the goal, selling a lovely dummy to shoot into the empty net. Wexford and Tipperary again in next week’s final, and with the sides taking one game each during the season it is all to play for.

Wexford: P. Breen, O. O’Shea, K. O’Rourke, D. McGill, J. Walsh, B. Dalton (0-1), S. White (0-12), D. Redmond, T. Bonner, J. Kehoe (0-1), S. Herlihey (1-2), T. Murphy (1-1), T. Maloney. Sub: P. Ryan (0-1) Galway: P. O’Connell, A. Hogan, J. Kinsella, E. Daniels, T. Linnane, P. Buckredge, S. Kelly, G. Lyons, D. O’Dwyer, I. Creaven (1-1), J. Byrne (1-1), R. O’Connell (0-1), J. Moylan (0-4).

By Rory O'Donnell

Senior Hurling: Wexford v Fr. Tom Burke's - July 12

Wexford 0-17 Fr. Tom Burke’s 2-6

Finally the rainy weather yielded to some sun and light breeze to create reasonably good conditions for a game of hurling. The grass was cut and the playing surface was the better than it has been all year. Wexford went into a comfortable lead in the first half and in spite of two late goals from Tom’s, the Slaneysiders always looked as though they would claim the spoils. Tidy play at the back and a forward line that spread the scoring around laid the groundwork for a comprehensive victory for the Wexfordmen to put them top of the table.

Wexford's Peter Ryan and Fr. Tom's Donal Moore tussle for posession.

The first half was a rather lackluster affair, underlined by the statistic that neither side scored from play until Tom Moloney put the ball over the bar with two minutes left in the first half. The highlights were a missed opportunity at goal for each side. First Tom’s corner forward Gerard Hennelly had a crack that just missed, and later in the half Wexford it was a great save by Tom’s keeper Aaron Bandon that kept Wexford from hitting the back of the net. Ryan O’Dwyer Stephen White and Tony Murphy shared the free-taking duties for Wexford, while for Tom’s it was Maurice Callnan. Callnan pointed from the dead ball four times for Tom’s, one a 70 late in the first half. Wexford’s free takers shared the spoils with two points each. Wexford played some tidy hurling out of their back line and O’Dwyer caused problems for Tom’s with his speed and quickness on the turn. As the game wore on the scores seemed to come easier for Wexford. After Maloney pointed from play it seemed to have the effect of signaling to his cohorts to do likewise, and O’Dwyer and White each followed. At the half Wexford were sitting on a comfortable looking five-point cushion.

Wexford's Tony Murphy grabs the ball in a crowd.

The Tempo of the game increased in the second half as Tom’s tried to get themselves back into the game. The sides matched each other for scores in the opening minutes. After Tony Murphy pointed for Wexford, Tom’s put two scores together for the first time in the game from Trevor Kelly and Callnan. Sean Herlihy and White then made it double scores as their points put Wexford into a twelve points to six lead. Tom’s introduced Fran Keenan and Michael Magill into the forward line in an effort to generate some return in that area of the field, and shortly thereafter Eanna Murphy. Wexford continued to hassle and harry at the back and Tom’s continued to struggle to improve matters in the scoring department. Their efforts finally bore fruit when a goal came from Murphy, with Michael Magill doing the set up work. Wexford added two more points from Tony Murphy when Tom’s struck with a second goal at the death. Trevor Kelly dropped a high ball into the crowded box, and it found it’s way into the back of the net. Any Tom’s hopes of a late comeback were dashed as it was a little too late and the final whistle sounded shortly thereafter.

Wexford: G. Griffey, O. O’Shea, K. O’Rourke, P. Breen, J. Walsh, B. Dalton, D. Redmond, S. White (0-7), S. O’Herlihy (0-2), P. Ryan, R. O’Dwyer (0-3), T. Moloney (0-1), T. Murphy (0-4). Tom’s: A. Bandon, S. Staunton, P. Callnan, J. Dowling, C. Healy, D. Moore, T. Kelly (1-1), S. Howley, J. Cuddy, D. Dowling, M. Callnan (0-5), G. Hennessey, C. Moore. Sub: E. Murphy (1-0).

By Rory O'Donnell

Senior Hurling - Wexford v Tipperary - July 5

Tipperary2-9 Wexford 2-12

Having played second fiddle to Wexford for the last 3 years, Tipperary looked eager to turn the corner in an intensely fought game of hurling. While the field had dried out significantly, surface conditions were still heavy and the sides labored to produce any kind of crisp quality to their performances. Referee Shane Sinnott issued three yellow cards and a red in the first half, but the game was still marked by some bouts of fisticuffs and heavy challenges that sparked unsavoury reactions. After losing Andy McRedmond to a sending off in the first half, Tipp were always playing from behind, and Wexford’s dominance continued as they seemed to have more weapons in the scoring department.

Tipp corner back James Heffernan tries to escape the attention of Wexford's Tom Moloney.

Tipp opened the game brightly. Tipp center back David Young struck a fine free from range and Pat Howard followed with a second soon afterwards. Referee, Shane Sinnott, was called to action early and issued yellow cards to Young and Wexford’s Ryan Dwyer following a schmozzle after Dwyer felt that Young unfairly impeded him when going for the ball. Wexford’s first score of the game, a Ryan Dwyer scrambled goal, put Wexford into a one-point lead. Pat Howard leveled matters with a free after Tipperary lost Andy McRedmond to a straight red card – Dominic McGill received a yellow for his part in the episode. Wexford used the extra man well in the full back line, and Tipp’s lobs into the Wexford full back line were promptly returned. Eoin Ryan stood out at wing back for Tipp as they ceded the initiative to their opponents. Tony Murphy pointed back to back frees to put Wexford into a lead that they did not relinquish. Stephen White and Ryan Dwyer added to the lead before Tipperary scored again. After Howard and Dwyer traded points, Wexford’s second goal came from the stick of Ger Griffey. Griffey took a free on his own 21, and the ball carried all the way to sneak under the crossbar of Jim Howard who also had the sun to contend with. A fortunate score at a great time for Wexford, quite the opposite for Tipp. At the half things looked good for Wexford; a seven point lead on the scoreboard, and a man advantage on the field.

Tony Murphy has goal on his mind as he runs through the Tipp back line.

Things got interesting in the second half as 12-man Tipp mounted a valiant fight-back. Tipp raised the intensity at the back and Wexford did not look so comfortable. Two Tipp goals brought them right back into the game. Brian Lonergan netted five minutes after the restart, and after 16 minutes Pat Howard had Tipperary within 2 points of their opponents. Howard got on the end of a dropping ball into the box and tapped the ball into the past Griffey into the Wexford net. Truth be told, David Young was a fortunate man to remain on the field following a bad challenge from behind that could easily have resulted in a second yellow, and later escaped following his reaction to being penalized for a free. Tipperary introduced Shane Menton who took over the free taking duties. The first three efforts sailed over the bar as Tipp cut into Wexford’s lead. Stephen White was also accurate from the placed ball in his free-taking duties for Wexford, and along with Tony Murphy, kept Wexford a score or two in front. With 2 minutes to go Tipp were within a goal of evening things up, but Murphy made it safe for the Slaneysiders with a well taken point. With Tipp needing 2 scores, Menton decided to take the easy score with a close range free, and Tipp pressed for the equalizing goal. Wexford put bodies in the box, and held out to reaffirm their status as the team to beat in Boston.

Tipp: J. Howard, M. Heffernan, J. Heffernan, E. Ryan, D. Young (0-1), C. Dempsey, M. Jordan, C. McGrath, P. McGrath, A. McRedmond, P. Howard (1-4), B. McFall, B. Lonergan (1-0). Sub: S. Menton (0-4). Wexford: G. Griffey (1-0), O. O’Shea, C. Rourke, B. Dalton, D. McGill, J. Walsh, D. Redmond, S. White (0-5), T. Bonner, R. Dwyer (1-2), T. Murphy (0-5), T. Moloney, S. Herlihey.

By Rory O'Donnell

Saturday June 20

Christopher's maintained their 100% record in the senior football championship by beating Mayo in a come from behind victory (see report). The first Junior Hurling championship game of the year saw Tipperary score an impressive 2-20 to 1-12 victory over Wexford. In junior football Donegal beat the Gaels by the slightest of margins, while Cork had a couple of points to spare over Shannon Blues in junior B football. Weather not looking good for tomorrow......

Championship begins

The championship starts this Sunday, May 24.

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

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

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

Cup Finalists Decided

Galway and Aiden McAnespies will contest the Pat O'Brien Cup Final next Sunday, May 17 at 3:00. Galway defeated western rivals, Mayo, while a strong McAnespies side defeated the Connemara Gaels 1-20 to 3-4.

Tipperary had a good win over cup holders Fr. Tom's and will face current Boston champions Wexford in the Kieran Sheehan Cup final. The Boston Shamrocks will defend the Orla Benson cup title against challengers Tir na nOg. Both games take place on Sunday, May 24 at 1:15 and 2:30.

Senior Football Championship play also begins Sunday week, May 24. At 3:45 Christopher's play Armagh-Notre Dame, and at 5:00 Kerry will open their season versus The Wolfe Tones.

Senior Hurling Final - Wexford Come Through in Tremendous Battle

Wexford 1-20 Tipperary 2-16

Wexford just made it over the line ahead of Tipperary in a photo finish in the senior hurling final. It was a game that had the punters going from muttering about being too one sided at half time, to talking about how it was the best game of hurling every seen by the time the final whistle sounded. The Slaneysiders won the game with literally the last ball stuck in the Boston hurling championships. Wexford looked like they would walk it after the first 30 minutes, but Tipperary pulled themselves back into it and brought the game into extra time. It was back and forth for the 20 minutes of the extra period with the lead changing hands 5 times, the final time in Wexford’s favour with a Mark Walsh point from play as there was not even time left for the puckout.

In spite of losing Shane Hennessey for a period early in the first half, Wexford put their stamp on the game. By the end of the first period the Wexfordmen held a comfortable seven point lead. Mark Walsh took the free taking duties and put three over the bar. Hennessey had accounted for three points before exiting the fray. Wexford got a goal courtesy of Joe Clarke, who Peter Ryan fed and Clarke smashed the ball home. Walsh rounded off the scoring with a free before half time. Tipperary did not manage to find room to shoot. Dominc McGill was on form at center back and Wexford won most of the possession from puck outs. Frances Devanney, Thomas Waters, and Alan McCrabbe each pointed for Tipp, who trailed by seven points going into the break.

Tipperary took the field for the second half with a changed lineup, and notably Owen McCormack came in as a substitute. Wexford got the first score of the second half, another Mark Walsh free, but Tipp got some hope from a goal right from the puckout. After Dominic McGill put one over for Wexford, Tipperary scored 6 points in a row to narrow the deficit to a single point. Then came another penalty. Alan McCrabbe took it and this time shot low and put Tipp a goal to the good. Wexford answered with three points on the trot to level the scores, and with the game on the line Tipp missed two great chances to take the lead, the shots drifting wide. Mark Walsh then put Wexford ahead on the stroke of 30 minutes, but Tipp answered immediately with a point from Gareth Sinnott to send the game into extra time.

Tipp took the lead in extra time with a point from Owen McCormack, but lost it, won it back and then lost it again for the last time. There were wonderful catching, hard hitting, and great scores in a game that had the spectators glued to their seats. It looked like Austin Murphy’s point would win it but Frances Devanney equaled it with as good a score. With 30 minutes up Mark Walsh had the final shot of the game and made it over the bar for Wexford to win their third hurling championship in a row. It was a game worthy of a championship final, and fittingly the final game of the Boston championships.

Wexford: E. Sprune, D. Brennan, D. Redmond, P. Holden, Dominic McGill (0-1), Richie Kehoe (0-2), B. Dalton, Joe Clarke (1-0), Mark Walsh (0-10), Shane Hennessey (0-5), Austin Murphy (0-2), P. Ryan, C. O’Connor. Tipp: J. Howard, R. Hennessey, J. O’Sullivan, M. Jordan, C. Dempsey, J. Coughlan, S. Power, G. Barry, Thomas Waters (0-1), Frances Devanney (0-3), Alan McCrabbe (1-5), John McGrath (0-1), Gareth Sinnott (0-2). Sub: Owen McCormack (1-3),O. Mahoney (0-1).

by Rory O'Donnell

Junior Hurling Final - Tipperary Take the Junior Title

Wexford 2-7 Tipperary 3-15

Tipperary put on a great team display and showed great sense of purpose to win the junior hurling title on Saturday, and in doing so took their second Boston junior title in a row. After 15 minutes Tipp’s focus along with their desire showed through as they worked themselves into an unassailable lead. Brendan McLaughlin was on form and the Carrickmore man scored two goals at key junctures of the game to help put the game beyond Wexford.

Wexford held a slight edge after the opening quarter, but then Tipperary gradually took control of the game and scored a goal and five points without reply. McLauglin feasted on an abundance of possession as plenty of ball found its way into his corner, and scored a fine goal with 20 minutes played. His partner in the full forward line, Paul Ryan, had goaled earlier in the game, and Tipperary will have been happy with first half return in that department. At the opposite end of the field, dual corner back, Christy Lynch executed his duties well as Wexford found the going tough in the final third of the field. At one point Mark Daly made a fine save from Graeme Molloy, but soon afterwards, Shane Kehoe scored Wexford’s goal. It was a fortunate one that looked to be heading over the bar from long range, but dropped short and with the sun in the keepers eyes, into the back of the net. Wexford’s points came from Stephen Delaney, while McLaughlin, Daithi Waters, and Fergal McDonnell pointed for Tipp. At the half Tipp led by a goal and four points.

Christy Lynch carries the ball out of defence for Tipp as Graeme Molloy shadows him.

Tipp drove home their advantage in the second half. Scoring a goal and five points to two points for Wexford, Tipperary wrapped up the game. After extended their lead with points from Kevin McGreavey and Paul Ryan, McLauglin showed his predatory instincts and Tyrone man fired home a rebound, which more or less sealed Wexford’s fate. With 10 minutes to go Wexford generated some goal chances, but Mark Daly saved well on a number of occasions. Wexford battled on and managed a goal from Tom Drennan and Graeme Molloy points, but Tipp were too far ahead for the Wexfordmen to have a serious chance of catching them. A deserved win for Tipp, who go on to the North American Finals as Boston champions.

Wexford: E. Kenny, M. Deegan, P. McArdle, JJ O’Neill, M. Brooks, J. Brett, J. Bergin, J. Dooley, Shane Kehoe (1-1), Steven Delaney (0-3), N. Moloney, Graeme. Molloy (0-2), C. McArdle. Sub: Brendan Cauley (0-1), Tom Drennan (1-0) Tipp: M. Daley, J. Hickey, C. Lynch, J. Duane, K. Power, S. Ryan, David Waters (0-2), Fergal McDonnell (0-1), K. O’Donnell, J. Feeley, Kevin McGreavey (0-1), Paul Ryan (1-1), Brendan McLaughlin (2-9). Sub: Colm McCrory (0-1)

By Rory O'Donnell

Finals Previews

Sunday August 24, 1:30
Ladies Senior Football Final - Tir na nOg v Roscommon

Tir na nOg have looked like contenders for the championship all year. The Brighton side suffered only one defeat during the season to the Boston Shamrocks. Tir na nOg are a strong side and have some excellent forwards. Maria Keane would be the first name that comes to mind when mentioning the Tir na nOg forwards, but there are others that can make hay for Tir na nOg. Angela Monaghan at full forward, Colleen Barrett on the wing, and Katie Murphy at center forward. Roscommon won their first game of the season last week, and have reached the final by virtue of a fine overall performance against the Boston Shamrocks. Roscommon have some powerful weapons in their arsenal in Fiona Claffey, Karen Maloney and Caroline Benson, not to mention a solid keeper in Niamh Kavanagh - which can keep them in it even if the team is not playing well. Given Roscommon's record up to last weekend, the Shamrocks may have taken them a little lightly and fell into a big hole, however, when the Shamrocks dug in Roscommon found it difficult to keep up their momentum and escaped with a one-point win. The pressure will be on Tir na nOg since they carry the weight of expectation on their shoulders, not to mention that this would be the first senior championship for the club - the first one is the hardest to win. If the Brighton side start off in top gear Roscommon could find it tough going. I'd have to favour Tir na nOg to win their first senior football championship.

Sunday August 24, 4:30
Senior Hurling Final - Wexford v Tipperary
Referee: Alan Kelly (Galway)

Wexford are going for three-in-a-row for Boston championships on Sunday afternoon. The Slaneysiders have been a mixed bag this year, starting off well, going off the boil for a couple of games, and then putting in a great performance against Brighton rivals, Galway. Wexford have some players to turn a game. Shane Hennessy in the forward line, Austin Murphy in the middle, and Joe Clarke in the half back line will be key. One name that featured prominently early on was Richie Kehoe, the Wexford county hurler who decided to spend a year in Boston, started off the season well, and even last week his performance seemed to be lacking some spark. Tipp have grown into the season and made the final with their last game of year. Some may argue that Tipp should start games a man down since twice this year they have lifted their performance following a sending off of one of their own. Tipp have some solid players in Richie Hennessy, John Coughlin, and Cronan Dempsey. Then there is the Dublin county hurler who decided to came to Boston this year, Alan McCrabbe. Like the team as a whole McCrabbe has looked more comfortable as the season has progressed and a good performance from him will be vital to Tipp's cause. With last weekend off, Tipp could get off to a slow start, and falling behind in the early going could prove fatal. Wexford would seem to have the horses to claim their third Boston championship in a row, and I'd have to say I'd expect to see the Slaneysiders ahead when the final whistle blows.

Sunday August 24 3:00
Senior Football Final - Donegal v Aiden McAnespies
Referee: Paddy Russell (Tipperary).

A contrast in styles. McAnespies have been the pace-setters this year, and at times have looked far ahead of any of their nearest rivals. In their last couple of games McAnespies have looked mortal. The return to Ireland of players of the caliber of Mark Goettsche, David Conway, and Johnny Laverty has brought the side down a peg or two, while Donegal have seen Dualtach Molloy return after a hand injury. McAnespies are the more physical of the two sides, their back line played the Shannon Blues tough and did a good job keeping the Blues forwards in check. Colm McCrory seems to have found himself in the forward line again, and last week Benny McGettigan probably had his best outing in at least 2 years. Of course there are also Declan Lally and Conor McGourty. The St. Bridgets, Dublin, clubman who is spending the summer in Boston has been an important cog in the McAnespies machine, while McGourty is a forward of the highest class. Keeping the Dublin and Antrim county players in check will be important for Donegal's chances. Donegal are a finesse team and are capable of playing some lovely football. The northerners have a good midfield pairing in Donal McNulty and Ronan McNeilis. The side's fortunes have revolved around these two and they will need to be on form for Donegal to have a chance. The question is whether Donegal's forwards will be able to cope with the McAnespies backs. Molloy, Gareth Concar, and Eamonn Murphy have been to the fore in that area of the field but may be at a physical disadvantage. The Donegal backs will also have to cope with the likes of Lally, McCrory and McGourty - a tough assignment. Donegal will need to control posession from kickouts and make McAnespies chase them in order to win. McAnespies are the safe bet if the game becomes a grind it our affair, and I'd have to go with them to make it four in a row.