Club Notes Archive - 2007
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MAY- 1st May
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~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh turned in a masterful performance on Sunday to overwhelm Ardara in the first leg, preliminary round of the Senior Championship. The first half was marred by an injury to Damien Diver. Diver went into a challenge with his county comrade of years past, Brian Roper, and sustained a broken shin in the clash. The injury necessitated a lengthy delay and after the restart Ardara took the match to Aodh Ruadh with the aid of a steady breeze into the turnstile end of the ground. However Aodh Ruadh began to take a grip on the game and a brilliant Niall McCready goal swung the tie definitively in the Ernesiders favour. With the half-time score at 1-5 to 0-6 and the benefit of the breeze to come Aodh Ruadh held the upper hand. They duly delivered with a superb second half of football. Intelligent use of the wind, with outstanding support and interlink play reduced Ardara to chasing shadows for much of the second half. There were few wides as Aodh Ruadh shot over a series of well-worked points. Ardara found it very difficult to make any headway against a tigerish Ballyshannon defence, as testified by their solitary one point tally in the second half. The 1-15 to 0-07 victory gives Aodh Ruadh the advantage as they go into the second leg against Ardara on Sunday 13th May. Our sincere best wishes go to Damien Diver for a smooth and speedy recovery.The reserves went down against Ardara by 0-8 to 1-12 and will be looking to force the tie to a play-off when they play again on Sunday 13th May.
The third team continued their blistering start to the year with a 6-17 to 3-5 demolition of Saint Naul's at Father Tierney Park.
There is a special meeting of the Park Committee on Wednesday 2nd May at 9.30pm all club members are asked to attend. The Bord na nÓg monthly meeting takes place in Aras Aoidh Ruadh on Thursday 3rd May at 9pm, all committee members are asked to attend. The senior board meeting takes place on Tuesday 8th at 8.30pm. All club members are asked to attend.
Peter Conlon is back so contact him on 087-6838024 or 071-9851386 with your pitch bookings.
~ HURLING ~
The senior hurlers were in Tattyreagh in the wilds of Tyrone somewhere near Omagh last Saturday in round four of the Ulster hurling league against Armagh hurlers, Sean Tracey's. Three soft goals proved the undoing of the Ballyshannon men as the Lurgan team won by two points. Once again Peter Horan at left half forward was Aodh Ruadh's standout performer. The next action for the team is in the Division One Hurling League against Setanta in the Park this Wednesday 2nd May at 7.30pm. The next Ulster League match is an away game this Saturday against Saint Brigid's in the Mid Ulster Sports Arena, near Cookstown. The throw for that game is 6.30pm.The under 14 hurlers have a match this Thursday, 3rd May, against MacCumhaill's. The bus for Ballybofey leaves the park at 6.15pm.
The annual Alan Ryan / Seamus Grimes Under 16 hurling tournament takes place this Bank Holiday Monday 7th May. The under 16s are asked to be in the park for 11am.
Senior hurling training continues on Mondays and Wednesdays at 7pm.
Minor training continues at 4.45pm on Friday.
Underage training for under 10s, 12s and 14s continues at 12 noon on Sunday next. All new players welcome.
~ LADIES ~
Congratulations go to Aodh Ruadh's Dearbhla McNeill who played for Donegal under 14s against Cavan last Saturday. Dearbhla played full back in what was a good win for Donegal over the Breffni county.Under 10 girls are training on Tuesdays from 6pm. The under 12 girls are training every Friday at 4.30pm in Munday's field.
Wednesday and Friday training at 7pm for Senior Ladies. League game this
~ BORD NA NÓG ~
This Saturday the under 10s will go into their first competition action of the year in the club's annual Mick Shannon Tournament. Also participating will be Bundoran, Killybegs, Melvin Gaels and Naomh Bríd. Action gets under way at 11am. Anyone who wants to lend a hand is more than welcome along to what promises to be a superb day of football.The under 12 footballers continued their rich vein of form over the past week. First up they scored a vital win against Dungloe in the League. The winning margin of 5-9 to 3-9 was deceptive. This was a very competitive game with each team playing to their utmost. Aodh Ruadh were only ahead by 2 points going into the last five minutes of the match, but a goal and a point put a rosy complexion on the scoreline for the Ballyshannon team. This victory leaves Aodh Ruadh four points clear at the top of the table from Dungloe and Four Masters in second place going into the second half of the league season.
There was more success last Saturday as Aodh Ruadh clinched the Willie Rogers under 12 Tournament Trophy. The 'A' final was between Aodh Ruadh and Erne Gaels. Aodh Ruadh, with the benefit of the breeze in the first half, began the final meaning business with two goals in quick succession. Erne Gaels were shell-shocked, but began to work themselves back into things. A well worked opportunity should have ended with a goal, but the Ballyshannon outfit scrambled it away from danger. Aodh Ruadh came back with renewed vigour, but had to be content with a point after two goal shots had been blocked by the Belleek backs. Moments later Ballyshannon did have the ball in the back of the net and that score seemed to mute the Erne Gaels challenge somewhat. A series of Aodh Ruadh points finished the half. Belleek put the shoulder to the wheel in the second half, but terrific work by the Ballyshannon 'keeper kept them at bay on all but one occasion. Pauric Patton went through a power of work for Aodh Ruadh, snuffing out attacks and setting up forward moves. When the final whistle had gone Aodh Ruadh had secured the Willie Rogers trophy on a scoreline of 3-6 to 1-1.
John Ward starred with four goals as Aodh Ruadh won the 'B' Final against Erne Gaels.
Willie Rogers' son Gavin was on hand to present runners up medals to a gallant Erne Gaels side. Renee Rogers, Willie's wife presented the Willie Rogers trophy to the winning captain, Pauric Patton of Aodh Ruadh. Aodh Ruadh would like to extend their sincere thanks to the participating teams, to those who officiated the matches, those who provided the refreshments, the stewards and to all those who gave of their time and effort to make the event such a success. There is a full report with pictures on the club website, www.aodhruadh.org.
The next action for the under 12s is another vital league clash against Four Masters.
The under 14s failed to progress at the Feile in Bundoran last Saturday. They competed well against Bundoran, but were well beat by Saint Naul's. Under 14 training continues on Wednesdays
The under 16's take on Saint Naul's on Friday 4th May in Mountcharles at 7.30pm. Under 16 football training continues on Fridays at 5pm in Munday's field.
The-minors came away from Dungloe with a well earned draw last Wednesday. A tough game, the final score was 0-8 to 1-5. The minor's next game is a trip to Kilcar on Wednesday 9th May. Throw in at 7pm.
- 7th May
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~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Another good performance by the senior footballers saw them secure a share of the points in Letterkenny last Saturday. Aodh Ruadh were down a number of players for this Division 1A clash with Saint Eunan's, but they set about their work with gusto and were unlucky not to come away with a victory. The final score was Saint Eunan's 1-12, Aodh Ruadh 2-9. The performance was marred by a bad injury to Stephen McGrath. Stephen had to be admitted to Letterkenny General Hospital with a dislocated shoulder. All in the club send Stephen their best wishes for a smooth and speedy recovery.Next Saturday is a huge day for the club as Aodh Ruadh take on Ardara in the second leg of the preliminary round of the senior championship. Aodh Ruadh have the advantage of an impressive win in the first leg in Ballyshannon, however Ardara are sure to be an altogether more formidable prospect in Pearse Memorial Park with a large home support guaranteed. Everyone in the town is strongly urged to travel to Ardara and get behind their team. Not only will the support be much appreciated, but it could well be a factor in deciding the outcome of the game.
The reserves also take on Ardara next Sunday. They will be hoping to overturn a first leg loss a force the tie to a play-off game.
Senior and reserve training continues on Tuesdays at 7pm and Thursdays at 6.45pm.
The senior footballers will be staging 'A Night at the Races' on Friday 18th May in Sen Óg's. Clerk of the Course is Ocean FM's Sean Perry. Come along and have a flutter with the lads in their fundraising efforts. Horses are available from any senior player for only 10. Loads of great prizes guaranteed. The visuals are provided by Brendan “Mannix” Gallagher on three giant plasma Screens. The first race goes to post at 9.00pm sharp.
The third team's fixture against Kilcar last Saturday was postponed.
A meeting of the park committee took place last Tuesday and it was announced that work will commence on the Munday's field development in the next week or two. The redevelopment will see Munday's Field transformed into a top class training facility. The club is undertaking a major draw to fund this development and tickets priced 30/£20 each or 50/£35 for two are out now and available from any club member. See the club website for more details on the draw, www.aodhruadh.org.
The senior club meeting takes place on Tuesday 8th May at 8.30pm. All club members are asked to attend.
Remember: call Peter Conlon on 087-6838024 or 071-9851386 with your pitch bookings.
~ HURLING ~
Aodh Ruadh were outgunned by Setanta in their opening fixture of the Division One Hurling League last Wednesday. The Killygordon side ran up a score of 4-14 to Aodh Ruadh's 2-5. Probably the poorest game of hurling Aodh Ruadh have played in a number of years, there was consolation in the performance of 17 year-old Chris Kilgannon. The next league action for the team is the long trip to Carndonagh this Wednesday 9th May. The bus leaves the park at 5.45pm.The senior hurlers were in Cookstown last Saturday to take on Saint Brigid's of Cloughmills in the Glens of Antrim in round five of the Ulster Hurling League. Aodh Ruadh gave a much better account of themselves at the Tyrone venue, giving the Glensmen their fill of it for much of the game. David Downey was Ballyshannon's man of the match, but Saint Brigid's took the points winning by 2-19 to 4-8.
There is a break in the Ulster League until Saturday 26th May when the opposition is Naomh Columcille in Father Tierney Park. Throw in at 6.30pm.
Senior hurling training continues on Monday at 7pm.
On a blustery day in Father Tierney Park and Munday's field the under 16 Alan Ryan and Seamus Grimes tournament was played with Ballinamore from County Leitrim, Setanta from Killygordon and McCumhaill's or Ballybofey taking part along with Aodh Ruadh. It was to be a very competitive final after Aodh Ruadh played McCumhaill's and Ballinamore. After winning the tournament for the past two years Aodh Ruadh again succeeded in reaching their third 'A' Alan Ryan final. However, Ballyshannon lost the Alan Ryan to McCumhaill's on a final scoreline of 2-3 to 1-1. With the advantage of the strong breeze, Aodh Ruadh should have been well in front but for some unfortunate wides and missed goal chances. At half-time, the scores were level at one point apiece and Aodh Ruadh looked most likely winners after getting a great goal from David Dolan four minutes after the restart. However two minutes later McCumhaills responded with a goal of their own and when they scored another three minutes later it effectively sealed the win for McCumhaill's. Best for Aodh Ruadh were captain Kieran Kilgannon, Ashley Mulherne, Gavin Croghan and David Dolan. The player of the tournament was awarded to Adam Gallinagh of McCumhaill's.
In the Seamus Grimes final, Setanta and Ballinamore played another very competitive match before Setanta eventually got on top on a final scoreline of 2-3 to 3-1. Best for Ballinamore was Morgan Quinn whilst Richard Kee excelled for Setanta.
The under 14 hurlers match against MacCumhaill's last Thursday was postponed. There is training for the under 14s and 16s on Thursday at 6.30pm.
Minor training continues at 4.45pm on Friday.
Training for under 10s, 12s and 14s continues at 12 noon on Sunday. All new players welcome.
~ LADIES ~
The senior ladies should have their first League game of the season away to Ardara on Sunday. Wednesday and Friday training at 7pm for Senior Ladies.Under 10 girls are training on Tuesdays from 6pm. The under 12 girls are training every Friday at 4.30pm in Munday's field.
~ BORD NA NÓG ~
Aodh Ruadh's As and Bs had a brilliant day last Saturday reclaiming the Michael Shannon trophy and plaque for Ballyshannon. The Bs beat Bundoran in a very competitive 'B' final. The 'A' final saw the south Donegal neighbours matched up once again. Ballyshannon got off to a dream start with Philip Patton shooting to the back of the Bundoran net with a long range effort. Bundoran weren't fazed though and soon restored parity with a well worked goal from Cian McEniff. Kevin Mulhern quickly tagged on another point as Bundoran entered their best phase of the game. A number of Aodh Ruadh attacks had come to nought with one shot coming back of the cross bar and a second going just narrowly wide. Bundoran took full advantage of these misses with Cian McEniff popping up to crash the ball to the back of the Aodh Ruadh net after a good move up the field. Things were starting to look ominous for Aodh Ruadh, but the defence was putting in great work to thwart promising Bundoran moves, Donal Sweeny and Enda Drummond in particular going through an ocean of work. Philip Patton was able to take charge of matters and work a great goal just on the stroke of halftime that saw Ballyshannon going in only a point down. Bundoran got the best possible start to the second half as Timmy Govorov finished off a well worked goal. Aodh Ruadh didn't let this upset their rhythm though and they patiently moved the ball back up the pitch and Dan Warnock rifled the ball to the net. Aodh Ruadh began to pile on the pressure and there was some fantastic defending by the seasiders. However Shane McGrath was in great form and took two fantastic points, one to level the game and one to put Aodh Ruadh into the lead. These points were followed by another Dan Warnock goal that put Aodh Ruadh into a four point lead with time ebbing away. Bundoran's Paul Murphy worked hard in this period trying to pull his team back into the game, and he was central in a move that saw Timmy Govorov chipping over a lovely point. Time had run out for Bundoran though and there were scenes of delight and euphoria as final whistle went and Aodh Ruadh realised they had reclaimed the Mick Shannon trophy. Michael Shannon's wife Noreen was on hand to present runners up medals to Bundoran's 'A’ and 'B' teams. Noreen then presented the 'B' Shield to 'B' team captain Patrick Herron. That was followed by the presentation of the Michael Shannon trophy to the winning captain, Eugene Drummond of Aodh Ruadh. Aodh Ruadh would like to extend their sincere thanks to the participating teams: Bundoran, Killybegs, Melvin Gaels and Naomh Bríd. We would also like to thank those who officiated the matches, those who provided the refreshments, the stewards and to all those who gave of their time and effort to make the event such a success. Pictures and a match by match report are available on the website: www.aodhruadh.org. The under 10s are training on Tuesdays from 6pm to 7pm and Saturdays from 11am to 12 noon. Any parents who have the hour to spare are most welcome to come along and help out. Aodh Ruadh footballers will be taking part in the Community Games in Dunfanaghy on 26th May. Only players born on or after 31 July 1998 are eligible to compete in this tournament. There is strict monitoring of this stipulation by the Community Games Committee. All players participating in the Community Games are required to supply the under 10 management with their birth certificates. These will be photocopied and promptly returned.The under 12s have a busy schedule of three games coming up following a brief hiatus after their victorious Willie Rogers tournament. The first match is a challenge against Sligo side, Saint John's on Wednesday 9th May. After that it's back to league action as they entertain Four Masters in Father Tierney park on Friday 11th May. The 'B' game starts at 6.30pm the 'A' game at 7pm. The following Monday, 14th May it is another league fixture with a trip to Ardara. Once again, the 'B' game starts at 6.30pm the 'A' game at 7pm.
Under 14 training continues on Wednesday at 7pm and Saturday 5.30pm.
The under 16s didn't have sufficient numbers to field against Saint Naul's last Friday, so the game was conceded. The annual PJ Roper under 16 tournament takes place this Saturday with teams attending from Garrison, Grange, and Kinlough. Action gets under way at 11am. Anyone who wants to lend a hand is more than welcome along to what promises to be a superb day of football.
The minor's next game is a trip to Kilcar on Wednesday 9th May. Throw in at 7pm.
Best of luck to Creevy National School when they take on Kilmacrennan National School in the semi-final of the Cumman na mBunscoil competition on Wednesday 9th May.
- 14th May
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~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
The predicted battle of attrition in Ardara came to pass as Aodh Ruadh went down by 2-7 to 0-11 in the Senior Championship second leg. The tone was set early with a melee breaking out in the seventh minute. Barry Ward and Ardara's Peter McHugh saw the line. Ward's dismissal had a big impact on the Ballyshannon challenge and meant Eamon O'Donnell had to take up the unaccustomed role of midfielder. O'Donnell gave a great performance and ensured Aodh Ruadh held their own in that sector throughout the remainder of the game. Ardara meant business though and two goals either side of half time effectively decided the game in their favour. Watch the website this week for the full match report. Sunday, June 3rd in Donegal town currently looks like the date and venue for the play-off game, although that remains to be decided finally by the county board.The reserves participation in the championship ended in Ardara last Saturday with the team in green and gold running out 2-14 to 1-9 winners. Ardara got off to great start, racing into a 0-8 to 0-2 lead, but Ballyshannon showed grit to pull themselves back to parity by the break. A point midway through the second half put Aodh Ruadh just ahead, but Ardara managed to overhaul that lead. Two late goals put a rather more favourable sheen on the scoreline for Ardara than perhaps the balance of play deserved. Aodh Ruadh's forwards gave good accounts of themselves with Damien Conlon at wing forward and the evergreen Val Murray proving troublesome for the Ardara defence. James O'Donnell and Gerard Ferguson held the back unit together in the face of determined Ardara attacking.
Senior and reserve training continues at 6.45pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
The senior footballers will be staging 'A Night at the Races' on Friday 18th May in Sen Óg's. Clerk of the Course is Ocean FM's Sean Perry. Come along and have a flutter with the lads in their fundraising efforts. Horses are available from any senior player for only 10. Loads of great prizes guaranteed. The visuals are provided by Brendan “Mannix” Gallagher on three giant plasma Screens. The first race goes to post at 9.00pm sharp.
The third's suffered their first defeat of the season losing by a solitary point to Four Master in Donegal Town. That 0-7 to 0-6 victory puts Four Masters top of the Division 4 South table by a point. However Aodh Ruadh have a game in hand over their Eskeside rivals and will have high hopes of regaining their position at the top of the table.
Minister Mary Coughlan will be present at the turning of the sod in Munday's Field on Tuesday 15th May at 7pm. All the local TDs, County Councilors and Town Commissioners have been invited and there will be refreshments in Aras Aoidh Ruadh Afterwards. The diggers are already on site to commence a redevelopment that will see Munday's Field transformed into a top class training facility. The club is undertaking a major draw to fund this development and tickets priced 30/£20 each or 50/£35 for two are out now and available from any club member. See the club website for more details on the draw, www.aodhruadh.org.
Remember: call Peter Conlon on 087-6838024 or 071-9851386 with your pitch bookings.
~ HURLING ~
Missing some stronger players, the senior hurlers had an impressive win against Carndonagh on a final scoreline of 3-10 to 2-09. After conceding two goals in the first 10 minutes of the second half and under pressure, Aodh Ruadh took control, with a man of the match performance by John Rooney, and tagged on some vital points to eventually control the game. Peter Horan played well in the second half after a nervous start as did Thomas Gallagher. There also was another fine performance by David Downey with some fine fielding in centrefield. The next senior Donegal League match is against McCumhaill's at 7.30pm in Fr. Tierney Park. Senior hurling training continues on Mondays at 7pm.The under 10 hurlers performed well with an overall team effort but lost to the Manorhamilton youngsters in the Bee Park. The under 12s played very well and had a great win against Four Masters on Thursday evening in the 'Go Games' format. There was a great display of skill from Colm Kelly, Oisín Roper, Tommy Gillespie and Jamie Brennan who scored a lovely point. The under 14 hurlers lost in an away game to Setanta on the same night but were missing some players. Best for the under 14s were James Kelly, who was excellent in goal, and Donal O'Keefe at centre back. The next under 14 hurlers match is this Thursday, 17th May, against Four Masters. The bus for Donegal Town leaves the park at 6.15pm. Underage training for under 10s, 12s and 14s continues at 12 noon on Sunday next. All new players welcome.
Minor training continues at 4.45pm on Friday.
Pictures from the under 16 Alan Ryan / Seamus Grimes hurling tournament run on May Bank Holiday Monday have been posted on the website (www.aodhruadh.org).
~ LADIES ~
The senior ladies went into league action against Glenswilly last Sunday. The homesters were on top in the first half going in seven or eight points up at the half time break. Ballyshannon rose to the challenge in the second half and clawed back the deficit to tie the game up at 2-6 to 2-6 when the final whistle sounded. This was an occasion when a real team performance pulled Aodh Ruadh through. Termon are the opponents next Sunday, 20th May in Father Tierney Park at 12 noon. Wednesday and Friday training at 7pm continues for the Senior Ladies.Under 10 girls are training on Tuesdays from 6pm. The under 12 girls are training every Friday at 4.30pm. Meet in the park.
~ BORD NA NÓG ~
Aodh Ruadh's under 8s travel to Bundoran for a game on Tuesday 15th May. The bus leaves the park at 5.30pm.With Munday's Field shut for redevelopment, under 10 training has been moved to the pitch at Colaiste Colmcille, which has kindly been made available by the school's board of management. Training continues at the normal times: Tuesday from 6-7pm and Saturday from 11am to 12 noon. Changing facilities have yet to be sorted out so players are asked to come already changed for the session. Any parents who have the hour to spare are most welcome to come along and help out. The Southern Minor Board has made some amendments to the playing rules for blitzes this season. These are 1. Each team plays eleven-a-side; 2. Where a player is fouled they then take the resulting free, and; 3. The player nearest to where the ball goes out takes the free or sideline ball.
Aodh Ruadh footballers will be taking part in the Community Games in Dunfanaghy on 26th May. Only players born on or after 31 July 1997 are eligible to compete in this tournament. Please note the amended date from last weeks notes. There is strict monitoring of this stipulation by the Community Games Committee. All players participating in the Community Games are required to supply the under 10 management with their birth certificates. These will be photocopied and promptly returned.
The under 12s have had a quite amazing week recording three victories in six days. They overcame Saint John's of Sligo in a challenge last Wednesday, then beat Four Masters by 0-10 to 2-3 in the park and finally they trumped Ardara in Pairc na Phiarsaigh by 2-14 to 1-3. Whew! David McGurrin led the scoring against Four Masters, bagging five points. Jonathan Gethins with three points and Colm Kelly with two completed the tally for Aodh Ruadh. Pauric Patton was once again in fantastic form directing matters in the middle of the pitch and Eamon McGrath was staunch in the face of a dogged Donegal attack. In Ardara, Jonathan Gethins took over the mantle of top scorer with no less than eight points. David McGurrin also chipped in with three points, while Dominic Boyle and Michael McNeely popped up for a goal apiece. Matthew Gettins with two points and Colin Keown with a point completed the scoring for Aodh Ruadh. In defence, Paddy Gillespie gave an outstanding display.
The lads now have a full week before they face Naomh Conaill in Father Tierney park on Monday 21st May. The 'B' game starts at 6.30pm the 'A' game at 7pm. Under 12 training now moves to the pitch at Colaiste Colmcille on Wednesdays at 7pm. Changing facilities have yet to be sorted out so players are asked to come already changed for the session.
Aodh Ruadh ran the 2007 PJ Roper u-16 Tournament on Saturday, 12 May. Participating in the tournament along with Aodh Ruadh were Devenish of Garrison, Melvin Gaels of Kinlough and Saint Molaise Gaels of Grange. For the third weekend in a row Ballyshannon was favoured with wonderful warm weather, if rather close and humid. The final was contested between Aodh Ruadh and Saint Molaise Gaels. Grange were first on the board with a beautiful effort from the cultured left boot of Keelan Watters. Aodh Ruadh responded quickly with David Dolan chipping over a good point. Grange were beginning to impose themselves on the game though and Peter Boyle was kept busy thwarting attempts on goal. A Keelan Watters free edged the Sligo team in front after a number of Grange wides and a Mark O'Hare attempt came back of the post for John Gilsennan to slot over the bar. Grange now entered their most fruitful phase of the match with a goal pushing them five points ahead. A great full-stretch Peter Boyle save was claimed by James Brennan who off-loaded to Mark O'Hare. O'Hare instantly blasted the ball to the net. That goal was followed by a lovely lofted point by Keelan Watters. The half ended disastrously for Ballyshannon when Chris 'Spanny' Goan was sent to the line for backchat after Terrence McShea had awarded Grange a penalty. Peter Boyle was equal to the task though and pulled off an outstanding Premiership-style save to deny Grange from the spot.
Grange opened the second half with a quick fire point. This was followed shortly by an excellent point by Eamon Burns. The game began to slack off at this stage with wide expanses of space opening up all over the park. John Gilsennan concluded the Grange scoring midway through the second half with a point from a poor kick-out. With Grange playing more lax football, Aodh Ruadh found the space to work a move up the pitch and David Dolan was rewarded for his tireless contribution throughout the competition with a great goal. The action concluded with Sean and Peter Boyle combining well to foil a goal attempt by Grange. When Terrence McShea blew for time Saint Molaise were able to celebrate retaining the PJ Roper trophy on a scoreline of 2-7 to 1-1.
Aodh Ruadh Bord na nÓg Chairman, Jim Kane, gave a speech praising the efforts of all involved and then handed over to PJ Roper's wife, Mary Roper, and his son, county star Brian Roper, to make the presentations. After the presentations the Grange manager James Watters spoke to congratulate Aodh Ruadh on the running of the tournament and comment on the amount of effort that had been invested in the Grange team to take them to this achievement. Aodh Ruadh would like to extend their sincere thanks to the participating teams, to those who officiated the matches, those who provided the refreshments, the stewards and to all those who gave of their time and effort to make the event such a success. There is a game by game report and pictures on the website, www.aodhruadh.org.
The under 16 Championship clash with Naomh Conaill has been rescheduled for Monday 21st May, 7.30pm from this Friday. Aodh Ruadh travel to Glenties for this first leg fixture with Naomh Conaill down to come to Ballyshannon for the second leg on Friday 25th May. Everyone who can should try to make it to Glenties to support the lads in this championship opener. Not only will the support be much appreciated, but it could well be a factor in deciding the outcome of the game.
The minors recorded an excellent win on their travels to Kilcar. It was a great display by Ballyshannon on a very windy night. Aodh Ruadh had the benefit of the breeze and took full advantage running up a score of 0-10 to 1-1 by half time. The game was effectively won by a great start to second half where the Ernesiders put in a massive effort to close out the game. Peter Boyle was fantastic in goal as was Maurice Kane at corner back and Ciaran Slevin at centre full back. Turkey and Ham at midfield a.k.a. Donagh McIntyre and Matthew Thompson gave an outstanding display of fielding in very tricky conditions. That was complimented by some lethal finishing from Magee, Murray and McInerney on the full forward line. The final score at Pairc Tamnaigh was 4-7 to 4-14. Next up in the league is a home game against Ardara on Wednesday 16th May. Throw in at 6.30pm.
Aodh Ruadh sends best wishes to Creevy School in the final of Cumman na mBunscoil this Saturday, 19th May. The time and venue are yet to be confirmed.
- 21st May
-
~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Distribution of tickets for the Donegal v Armagh game in Ballybofey on Sunday takes place in Aras Aoidh Ruadh this Wednesday night 23rd May at 10pm.Exams and various other commitments stripped the reserves to the bare 15 against Kilcar in their Division 1A Reserve clash at Pairc Tamnaigh last Saturday. Kilcar took full advantage with a 1-15 to 1-5 win against the understrength Ballyshannon outfit. Best for Aodh Ruadh in what was a disappointing defeat were Pauric Loughlin, Gerard Ferguson and Fiachra McIntyre.
Senior and reserve training continues at 6.45pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
The senior footballers staged a great night's craic last Friday night with 'A Night at the Races' in Sen Óg's. Clerk of the Course, Sean Perry, was on top form giving the low down on the runners and riders. The highlight of the night was the auction race, which was rather appropriately based on a political theme. James O'Donnell topped the bidding to claim ownership of the horse jockeyed by Sinn Fein election hopeful Pearse Doherty, whilst the distinguished Chairman of Ballyshannon Town Council, John Meehan, pushed the bidding past 200 to secure the services of Enda Kenny on his mount. It was James O'Donnell who was to reap the rewards though, as Pearse Doherty's horse romped home first, securing the Creevyman his second windfall in less than a month. The senior team thanks all sponsors who supported the event and everyone who turned out on the night. Thanks also to Sean Og's for their help in staging the race night and Brendan “Mannix” Gallagher for taking care of the visuals.
The third's returned to winning ways last Friday with a 2-11 to 0-8 victory over Glenties in the Park. That victory took Aodh Ruadh back to the top of the Division 4 South table briefly, but Four Master beat Saint Naul's on Sunday to reclaim pole position. Ballyshannon still have a game in hand over their Donegal town rivals.
With Munday's Field now closed for redevelopment it is more important than ever that pitch bookings are directed through Peter Conlon. Contact Peter on 087-6838024 or 071-9851386.
~ HURLING ~
Missing three of their stronger players, the senior hurlers lost against McCumhaill's on a final scoreline of 1-12 to 1-03. Playing with the advantage of the strong wind Aodh Ruadh finished the half being two points adrift of McCumhaill's after conceding a soft goal. Missing five frees and hitting six wides from play proved to be costly. The signs looked to be ominous at the start of the second half, but McCumhaill's never looked likely to score any further goals and were restricted to taking points. David Downey again had a 'man of the match' performance in midfield with other good displays by the young Kilgannon brothers Chris and Kieran, Johnny Dolan, Peter Horan and Paul Cassidy in the full forward berth. See the website (www.aodhruadh.org) for a full match report. The next senior Donegal League match is against Na Maghe of Derry on Wednesday 23rd May at 7.30pm in Fr. Tierney Park. Next up is Ulster League action on Saturday 26th May when the opposition is Naomh Columcille in Father Tierney Park. Throw in at 6.30pm. Senior hurling training continues on Monday evenings at 7pm.The under 12 hurlers played very well and had a great win again against Four Masters last Thursday evening. The match was in the Donegal Town venue and played in the 'Go Games' format. After conceding three goals there was a great display of skill and determination from the team who were well on top at the end. There were good displays from Oisín Rooney, Tommy Gillespie and Eddie Lynch. The next under 12 match is this Thursday, 24th May, against Setanta in Fr. Tierney Park. The under 14 hurlers also won their game to Four Masters on the same night and venue. Best for the under 14s were the rapidly improving McDonagh brothers Joey and Kieran, as were Ruairí Drummond and the small but nippy Ruairí Cullen. The next under 14 hurling match is this Thursday, 24th May, at home against Setanta. Players should be in Father Tierney Park at 7pm.
Training for under 10s, 12s and 14s continues at 12 noon on Sunday next. All new players welcome.
Minor training continues at 4.45pm on Friday.
~ LADIES ~
Congratulations to Aoife Buggy who made her senior intercounty debut in the championship last Sunday against Tyrone in Omagh. Starting at wing half back Aoife gave a great account of herself, although ultimately Donegal didn't have enough for the Red Hand ladies.Senior Ladies training continues on Wednesday and Friday training at 7pm.
The under 12 girls are taking part in the Community Games in Dunfanaghy this Saturday 26th May. The Bus leaves the park at 9am on Saturday morning.
Under 10 girls are training on Tuesdays from 6pm. The under 12 girls are training every Friday at 4.30pm. Under 16 training on Friday 6pm in the park.
~ BORD NA NÓG ~
A squad of 22 under 8s traveled to Bundoran last Tuesday. An 'A' and 'B' team were fielded and two sporting games were had, cheered on by a large gathering of parents and supporters. There will be no under 10 training for the next two Saturdays. This Saturday, 26th May, the club is taking part in the Community Games in Dunfanaghy. The Bus leaves the park at 9am on Saturday morning. The first blitz of the year takes place on the following Saturday, 2nd June at Naomh Bríd where Pettigo and Naomh Mhuire will also be taking part. Training continues on Tuesdays at 6-7pm at Colaiste Colmcille.The under 12s unbeaten run continued on Monday night with a comprehensive 3-15 to 1-1 victory over Naomh Conaill in Father Tierney Park. The next fixture is the short trip to take on Bundoran on Monday 28th May. The 'B' game starts at 6.30pm the 'A' game at 7pm.
The under 14s go into league action with a trip to Gaelic Park to take on Bundoran on Wednesday 30th May.
Congratulations to Peter Boyle and Ronan Drummond who were selected to represent the club on the Southern division under 15 panel. Both players traveled to Cookstown last weekend, where they played in games against Armagh, Antrim, Derry and Fermanagh. The team had a good work out, recording two wins and two losses.
The under 16s gave their best display of the year to run Naomh Conaill to within a point at Davy Brennan Park in the first leg Donegal Adventure Centre under 16 Championship. The return of Brian Patton to the team proved a big bonus. Ballyshannon went in leading at half time, but Glenties came out all guns blazing in the second half. An Aodh Ruadh goal shortly before the final whistle reduced to margin to the minimum, but time ran out for the Ernesiders. There is now real optimism that Ballyshannon can beat Glenties when they meet in the Park this Friday 25th May and force the tie to a play-off game. Everyone who can, should try to make it to the park to support the lads, it could well be the factor that sways the game in Ballyshannon's favour.
Aodh Ruadh minors copper-fastened their credentials as a team to watch with a 2-8 to 1-5 victory over Ardara in Father Tierney Park last Wednesday night. There was staunch work done in defence by Damien Cleary and Gary Loughlin, whilst Matthew Thompson proved that Turkeys can fly with an acrobatic performance at midfield. Diarmuid McInerney, PJ Magee and Aidan 'The Bomber' Murray again proved to hot to handle for the opposition defenders. There is a break now until the minors go into championship action on Monday 4th July against Naomh Columba. Ballyshannon will be traveling to Glencolmcille for this preliminary round first leg fixture. Training for Minors takes place on Mondays and Fridays at 4.30pm in the park.
Well done to Creevy School who achieved a notable triumph in the final of Cumann na mBunscoil last Saturday. The Rossnowlagh Road side took on a team from Whitecastle of Quigley's Point. The game was played in poor conditions. Creevy played against a strong breeze in the first half and sneaked a goal just before the half time break to go in two points to the good. The Ballyshannon outfit piled on the pressure in the second half to prevail by 5-5 to 3-4, limiting Whitecastle to a solitary point. Congratulations to the Creevy players and PJ Buggy who managed the side.
- 28th May
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~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh face a crucial senior championship play-off against Ardara this Saturday in Donegal Town. After an impressive Ballyshannon win in Father Tierney park, Ardara fought their way back into the tie with a gritty victory in Pairc na Phiarsaigh. It now comes down to this Saturday to decide who will progress to the first round proper of Raidio na Gaeltachta Senior Football Championship. Throwing in at 4.30pm with extra time if required, a big showing of Ballyshannon support is absolutely essential in what is a make or break game for the club's season.The reserves dismal run of form continued with a 0-15 to 0-4 loss to Saint Eunan's in Letterkenny in the Division 1A Reserve League.
Senior and reserve training continues at 6.45pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
The thirds maintained their challenge at the top of the Division 4 South table last Saturday when they chalked up a good away win against Ardara. The Ernesiders won by the odd point on a scoreline of 2-8 to 1-13.
With Munday's Field now closed for redevelopment it is more important than ever that pitch bookings are directed through Peter Conlon. Contact Peter on 087-6838024 or 071-9851386.
~ HURLING ~
In the Ulster league, the senior hurlers lost by a two point margin against St. Colmcille's of Coalisland, County Tyrone, on a final scoreline of 3-13 to 2-14. It was a great performance by both teams with a high level of skill and determination shown by both sides. The game began slowly and the concession of a goal after 10 minutes of play due to a goal-keeping error was unfortunate for Aodh Ruadh. Another goal was conceded five minutes later which should have been called as a square ball by the Derry referee! This came after some fine points being scored by Aodh Ruadh with good teamwork. However, despite this setback the Aodh Ruadh full forward, Paul Cassidy caught a high dropping ball, turned, took the direct route to goal and kicked it in fine style to the back of the net. At half -time the scores were 2-08 to 1-07 in favour of St. Colmcille's.In the second half, despite dominating the centre of the field, Aodh Ruadh missed some vital scores from frees and should have been ahead. At this stage both sides were very committed with Aodh Ruadh midfield restricting the supply of ball to the St. Colmcille's forward line. With two minutes to go the young Kieran Kilgannon in the corner forward berth, scored a great goal with a first time ground pull and it looked as if Aodh Ruadh could score again only for time to run out. However, despite having some chances the Aodh Ruadh forwards were overall not as sharp in getting their scores. In the final analysis, it was the greater efficiency of the Tyrone inside forward line who were more economical with the ball and who got their scores with greater ease that was the difference between the sides. Man of the match was David Downey who again excelled in the middle of the park but there were also good performances by the Anthony Coughlin, the three Loughlin bothers (Kevin, Mark and Gary), along with the young Kieran Kilgannon and the aforementioned Paul Cassidy.
The final Ulster League match is an away game to be played in the Mid Ulster Sports Arena, outside Cookstown next weekend against Castlewellan of County Down. The next Donegal league match is an away game against Four Masters on Wednesday, 30th May.
The under 10 hurlers play in the Community Games. This was scheduled for Donegal Town at the time of writing. The club's best wished go with them! The under 12 hurlers fielded two teams on Saturday last and both won against the McCumhaill's under 12's. There was a great display of skill from the Kelly bothers (James and Michael), Eddie Lynch and Jamie Brennan. The under 14 hurlers played a good match but lost against McCumhaill's despite missing some key players in the Park on Thursday evening. After conceding three goals in the first half, Aodh Ruadh played very well and dominated the second half. Best for Aodh Ruadh were Ruairí Drummond, Jack Matthews, Patrick Faherty and Conor Gallagher. Also catching the eye were the McDonagh brothers Joey and Kieran. The next under 14 hurling match is this Thursday, 31st May, at home against Setanta. Players should be at the park at 7pm.
Training for under 10s, 12s and 14s continues at 12 noon on Sunday next. All new players welcome.
~ LADIES ~
The senior ladies had a game last Saturday, but lost. There are another two games this week with Glenfin on Wednesday 30th May and Termon Friday 1st June both making the trip to Ballyshannon to take on Aodh Ruadh's senior ladies.The under 12 girls took the gold Community Games in Dunfanaghy last Saturday. Unfortunately none of the other girls teams slated to participate turned up so Aodh Ruadh won on walk over and will progress to Clones for the next phase of the Community Games. Of more immediate interest is a game away to Killybegs this Thursday, 31st May, players should contact the team management for further details.
Under 10 girls are training on Tuesdays from 6pm. The under 12 girls are training every Friday at 4.30pm. Under 16 training on Friday 6pm in the park.
~ BORD NA NÓG ~
There is a Bord na nÓg meeting in Aras Aoidh Ruadh on Wednesday 30th May at 9pm. All committee members are asked to attend.An Aodh Ruadh under 9 and half team attended the Community Games in Dunfanaghy last Saturday. It was a good work out for the team with 22 players traveling and everyone getting a game. They won their first match against a good Milford outfit, but lost in the final to the home team. Many thanks to Saint Michael's for their excellent running of the competition on the day.
There will be no under 10 or under 8 training this Saturday as the first blitz of the year takes place on Saturday, 2nd June at Naomh Bríd where Pettigo will also be taking part. Only players aged 8, 9 or 10 will be taking part in this blitz. The bus leaves from the Park for Ballintra at 11.00 am sharp on Saturday morning. Training continues on Tuesdays at 6-7pm.
The under 12s made it ten league victories out of ten on Monday night with a 1-11 to 2-04 victory over Bundoran in Gaelic Park. The team has a break before their next fixture, a trip to Dungloe on Monday 11th June. The 'B' game starts at 6.30pm the 'A' game at 7pm. Training continues as usual on Wednesdays at 6pm.
The under 14s go into league action with a trip to Gaelic Park to take on Bundoran on Wednesday 30th May. Following that Killybegs travel to Ballyshannon on Wednesday 6th June. Throw in for both games is 7.30pm
The under 16s second leg preliminary round game against Naomh Conaill was postponed until Friday June 22nd.
The minors go into championship action on Monday 4th July against Naomh Columba. Throw in is at 7.30pm. Ballyshannon will be traveling to Glencolmcille for this preliminary round first leg fixture. Everyone who can should try to make the trip to support the lads. Training for Minors takes place on Mondays and Fridays at 4.30pm in the park.