Club Notes Archive - 2009
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MAY- 4 May
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~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh maintained their impressive start to the season with a 1-8 to 0-13 away win over Buncrana. The Inishowen outfit were the better side in the first half and went in leading 1-5 to 0-5 at half time. Ballyshannon kicked on in the second half, but still had Paul Kane to thank for the win. He showed great bravery to pull off a wonderful last minute save that ensured Aodh Ruadh took the points, but left him singing soprano on the bus home. Elsewhere Barry Ward had an outstanding game at corner forward, while Donagh McIntyre's surging runs from half forward played a major role in opening up Buncrana. Injury returnee, Michael Lawless, put in a very effective shift as did Packie McGrath who was, once again, excellent in defence. Another in a good vein of form is Kerry Ryan, slotting in a wing back this time out and proving difficult to handle.The reserves were unlucky to lose out to Buncrana by a single point 1-8 to 1-7. Aodh Ruadh got a great goal from Gerard Ferguson, who had a great match in general play. Ferguson was unlucky not to get a second after a magnificent decoy run by Sean Perry!
The seniors and reserves are down to host to MacCumhaill's this Saturday in division two. The reserve game throws in at 5pm to be followed by the seniors at 6.30pm.
The thirds fell to their first defeat of the season on Saturday when they lost to a very strong Pettigo side by 0-3 to 2-6. Early good weather proved misleading. As soon as the whistle went the heavens opened and the temperature plummeted. Aodh Ruadh's scores came from Dermot Slevin, Paddy Kelly and Diarmuid Keown. There were some positives to be taken from the performances of a number of minors who were getting their first exposure to adult football. Conor Thomas was one who did very well in what were brutal conditions. No thirds fixture had been set for this week at the time of writing.
~ PAIRC AOIDH RUAIDH ~
Pairc Aoidh Ruaidh is to get its official opening on Friday 29th May. Donegal are down to take on Sligo on what will be a very proud day for the club. With a massive push now on to finish the Munday's field site and considerable outgoings to be met it is more important than ever that members sell their Club Centenary Draw tickets and return monies urgently. Sold tickets and returns can be brought back to Tom Daly, Conal Gallagher, John Magee and Terence McShea.~ LÁ NA gCLUB ~
As part of the nationwide Lá na gClub festivities Aodh Ruadh has planned an action-packed day of fun and games for young and old. The day kicks off with the raising of the GAA 125 flag at 2pm. After that there will be youth blitzes in hurling and football; A long puck competition for the older hurlers; A penalty kick competition; A ladies and gents long kick competition; Novelty competitions including a wheel barrow race, Adult and under 8 child piggy back race and a Mother and Fathers relay. The action concludes with an all-comers one mile race. There will collection on the day which will be split between local charitable causes and the Aodh Ruadh club. It all promises to be great fun and everyone in Ballyshannon, no matter your background, is invited to come and make Father Tierney park their own for the day.~ SENIOR SPONSORSHIP ~
In this, our centenary year, Aodh Ruadh are issuing an open invitation for a senior team sponsor. This represents an unrepeatable opportunity to secure a unique place in one of the most significant years in the club's history. Anyone who would like to discuss sponsorship can contact Terence McShea on 071-9852512 or 087-2360815.~ HURLING ~
Aodh Ruadh under 14 hurlers took part in the Ulster Féile on Saturday last. They beat Castleblayney of Monaghan in the first game and lost a very tight second game to eventual division six winners, Rasharkin of Antrim. The boys then travelled to Dungannon where they took part in a very colourful parade with over 90 clubs from all over Ulster taking part.The annual Alan Ryan / Seamus Grimes tournament took place on Bank Holiday Monday in very difficult conditions. Coolera / Strandhill won the Alan Ryan trophy and Aodh Ruadh retained the Seamus Grimes trophy. A full report on the day's activity will be available in due course.
A busy few days finished with the under 12s beating Lisbellaw in a brilliant display of passion and commitment to go top of the Fermanagh league. Both teams put on a great display of hurling in very difficult conditions.
Training for under 8s, under 10s, under 12s and under 14s is on this Sunday at 1pm due to Lá na gClub. It is hoped that all parents will take part in this fun family day. Any enquires to John Rooney on 086-2587793.
~ LADIES ~
Intermediate ladies training continues in the park at 10:30am every Saturday morning.Training for the under 12 and under 14 girls continues at 6-7pm in the park every Tuesday evening.
Under 10 girls training continues, weather permitting, in Father Tierney Park this Wednesday, 6th May at 6pm.
~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The minors trip to Donegal town to take on Four Masters was postponed from last Wednesday to Wednesday coming, 6th May. Throw in is at 7pm.Aodh Ruadh's under 16s topped the round robin section of the division one league with a 2-6 to 1-8 win over Naomh Conaill last Wednesday. It was a big-hearted display from the Ernesiders against a very accomplished Glenties side. Ballyshannon had the breeze in the first half and went in at the break five points up. It was a war of attrition in the second half as Ballyshannon held off a determined Naomh Conaill fight back. Ronan McGurrin, Ruairí Drummond and Conor Patton all gave simply superb performances in what was a real nail biter of a match while Marcus Harley, who played a stormer at midfield, is developing into a very fine footballer. That result puts Ballyshannon into a final next Monday, 11th May, against Naomh Conaill, who won a play-off against Ardara on Bank Holiday Monday. The venue and time had yet to be decided at the time of writing.
Congratulations to the Colaiste Colmcille under 14 and half side which recently won the Mallon cup. They beat Aquinas of Belfast by 4-17 to 3-7 in what was an exhibition of football in Healy Park.
Aodh Ruadh finally managed to get their under 14 Féile final against Saint Eunan's played on Bank Holiday Monday. The venue was Bundoran and apologies are due to anyone who travelled to Donegal town where the fixture had been initially penciled in for. It was a desperate day for football with rain and a strong crosswind, but Ballyshannon played the more intelligent football to take the county title by 1-4 to 0-3. There was a particularly strong performance from the back line with Eamon McGrath, Matthew Maguire and Paddy Gillespie showing a lot of composure, not only in their tackling, but also in their distribution of the ball out of defence. With the half time score at 1-1 to 0-2 the game was well in the balance coming into the second half, but It was Aodh Ruadh who were better able to take their chances. David McGurrin ended up with 1-2 and Darren Gettins also sniped of a point while Jamie McDonald took the final insurance score with no small amount of class. McDonald's point secured a very satisfying win and Aodh Ruadh's first county silverware in their centenary year. Congratulations lads! That win means players now have two further dates to enter into their diaries. The Ulster Féile takes place in Owenbeg, south Derry on Saturday 16th May. The All-Ireland Féile Peil na nÓg event is hosted in Kildare this year and runs from Friday, July 3rd until Sunday, July 5th.
There was back to back wins for the under 12s last Friday. They travelled to Killybegs and emerged 6-4 to 8-15 winners. Everyone played well in a display where Aodh Ruadh kept their heads against plucky homesters. Kieran Kelly continues to demonstrate outstanding potential with his reading of the game and passing from centre half back really lighting up the match. It was good to see Gavin McDaid back after his injury last week and he showed no ill-effects doing very well at full forward. Ryan Gallagher was another standout player on the forward line where he benefitted from brilliant work by Shane McGrath and Philip Patton at half forward. The next target for Aodh Ruadh is Bundoran this Friday 8th May. That game is down for Father Tierney Park with the throw in at 7pm. Players are to be at the park for 6.15pm. This is Ballyshannon's last game in the round robin section and they need a win in this game to be in with a chance of making the regional semi-finals, so a good show of support would be appreciated. Under 12 training takes place on Wednesdays at 5.30pm in the park.
The first blitz of the year takes place in Killybegs on May 9th with Naomh Conaill and Ardara also taking part. The bus leaves the park at 9.30am sharp and the players are expected to be back in Ballyshannon around 3pm. Children are to be supplied sensible snack and drink and no more than €3 for the shop stop. Any queries call Peter Gallagher on 087-9794280. A note for the diary - Aodh Ruadh host the Community Games on Sunday, May 17th. Further details in due course.
Under 8 football training continues this Friday weather permitting outside on the Colaiste Cholmcille pitch this Friday evening at 6pm. If the weather is not good, it will take place in the Mercy Hall. Well done to last week's players of the week Nathan and John. Training finishes at 6.45pm, please collect your children at that time. Any parents or coaches wishing to help out in any small way are more than welcome. Please call up about ten minutes prior to training. There will be an under 8 game at 2pm this Sunday 10th May at Munday's Field as part of the Lá na gClub and also to celebrate the opening of the new Aodh Ruadh Centre of Excellence. Any players who are 7 or 8 years of age are invited to attend. Players to be at Father Tierney Park for 1.45pm. All players should have club socks and shorts. These are available to buy in Culkin's sports shop (Ballyshannon Shoe Company).
- 5 May
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~ LADIES ~
A massive thank you is extended to all those who attended and supported the Ladies Beach Party fund raiser in Max Bar on Sunday night. It was a fantastic night of craic and a rip roaring success. Vital funds were raised to keep the Intermediate ladies ticking over for the season. Hopefully we can emulate the success again next year.A big congratulations to Tara Khan who received the "Woman of the Match" for her part in the county minor victory at the weekend when they took on Cavan in Convoy. The minor panel put in an impressive display to emerge convincing winners. Congratulations to Anna Rafferty and Dearbhaile McNeill who were part of the county under 16 side at the weekend. Donegal came out on top and now progress to the Ulster final. Next up for both the under 16 and the minor girls is Tyrone, with both finals to be played next weekend. Thanks to all those who travelled on the day to support the girls.
Under 12 and Under 14 girls continued their league season this week. The under 14s registered a fantastic victory on Monday night when they played Naomh Bríd. The Ernesiders emerged the victors on a scoreline of 4-8 to 3-5. The under 12s took on the challenge Saint Naul's last Friday evening, but fell foul of a skilled Mountcharles forward line, with the final score wrapping up at 4-1 to 2-3 in favour of Saint Naul's.
All ladies training details correct as noted in yesterday's mailing.
~ FIXTURE UPDATES ~
Still no news on a venue for the under 16 regional final against Naomh Conaill at the time of writing. Likewise no word on a fixture for the thirds this weekend.
- 11 May
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~ CONDOLENCES ~
Aodh Ruadh extends its sincerest sympathies to our secretary, John Magee, on the death of his sister, Bridie Treacy, who passed away earlier today. She will be buried at 12 noon, Wednesday in Garrison. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam uasal.~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh unbeaten record in division two was maintained in impressive style last Saturday when they beat MacCumhaill's by 0-14 to 0-11. The main stories of the match were the performances of Pauric Buggy and Brian Roper. Buggy bagged 0-8 in frees, some of really outstanding quality, while Roper scored 0-6 from play, again many were from the top drawer. MacCumhaill's started very brightly, but Aodh Ruadh got on top of them as the first half wore on and were good value for a 0-7 to 0-5 half time lead. In the second half Ballybofey again started the stronger, but the Ernesiders gained a midfield stranglehold thanks to the work of Michael Gurn, Michael Lawless, Stephen Ward and Fiachra McIntyre. Garret Blake also did well playing in around the midfield and leaving a two man full forward line of Roper and Buggy to wreak havoc up front. Once again Paul Kane was called on to make a vital save, this time it came just after half time, but by and large the defence was extremely sound. There is a full match report available on aodhruadh.orgThe reserves also had an impressive win. They defeated MacCumhaill's by 1-12 to 0-5. The highlight was a bravura performance by the peerless Val Murray, who scored 1-8.
The seniors are to host to Gaoth Dobhair in Father Tierney Park this Sunday at 3pm. With Gaoth Dobhair reserves involved in a championship play-off game against Malin there will be no action for the Aodh Ruadh reserves this weekend.
No thirds fixture had been set for this week at the time of writing.
~ PAIRC AOIDH RUAIDH ~
Pairc Aoidh Ruaidh is to get its official opening on Friday 29th May. Donegal are down to take on Sligo on what will be a very proud day for the club. With a massive push now on to finish the Munday's field site and considerable outgoings to be met it is more important than ever that members sell their Club Centenary Draw tickets and return monies urgently. Sold tickets and returns can be brought back to Tom Daly, Conal Gallagher, John Magee and Terence McShea.~ LÁ NA gCLUB ~
Unlikely as it seemed earlier in the week, the sun smiled on Ballyshannon for its Lá na gClub celebrations. Ulster President, Tom Daly, raised the GAA 125 flag to get proceedings under way. One of the early high points was the sight of the young footballers, ladies footballers and hurlers of Aodh Ruadh christening the new facilities at Pairc Aoidh Ruaidh. There were numerous other activities during the day including a tightly fought penalty kick competition which saw senior footballer, Darren Drummond, and club chairman, Terence McShea, going toe to toe for ultimate honours. Rumours that the Chairman is putting it about that he let Darren win are nothing more than scurrilous innuendo. Elsewhere Paul Kane and Tanya O'Shea took the laurels in the ladies and gents long kick after some heated competition notably from Peter Boyle and Katie Flood. There was plenty of novelty races run and one of the highlights was Mark McGlynn making like Tony McCoy and bating the oul fella, Martin McGlynn, to victory in the parents piggy back race. Minor panelist, Ronan Drummond, won the concluding event of a fun packed day, the all-comers mile. The club extends their thanks for everyone who turned up and helped make the day such a success, not forgetting those who put in so much hard work to make the day go so smoothly.~ HURLING ~
Congratulations to young hurlers Eugene Drummond, Kieran Kelly and Deva Ayres who were part of the victorious Donegal Cumann na mBunscoil team that defeated their Tyrone counterparts in Letterkenny last Saturday during the Ulster championship game between the two counties.The under 12 hurlers continued on their winning ways on Monday defeating Knocks in Donagh in a Titanic battle by 2-4 to 1-1. The under 16 s play Knocks in Father Tierney park on Thursday, 14th May at 7pm.
Well done to all the young hurlers who took part in the games in Pairc Aoidh Ruaidh to mark Lá na gClub.
Training for under 8s, under 10s, under 12s and under 14s is on this Sunday at 12 noon. Any enquires to John Rooney on 086-2587793.
We offer our sympathies to the McLaughlin and Downey families and the Burt club on their recent tragic loss.
~ LADIES ~
Congratulations to Anna Rafferty, Dearbhaile McNeill and Tara Khan who were part of the county minor panel who seized the Ulster title at the weekend. Tara took her place, once more, at corner back to see off the challenge of Tyrone. They now progress to the All Ireland semi finals with the final prize in sight.The under 16 county girls will play their Ulster final this Saturday in Convoy, where they too will face Tyrone. All support on the day would be greatly appreciated.
Under 12 girls will travel to Glenties this Friday evening as their league campaign continues. An under 14 fixture for this week has yet to be announced.
Big thanks to all those who represented the Ladies teams at the Lá na gClub.
Intermediate ladies training continues in the park at 10:30am every Saturday morning.
Training for the under 12 and under 14 girls continues at 6-7pm in the park every Tuesday evening.
Under 10 girls training continues, weather permitting, in Father Tierney Park this Wednesday, 6th May at 6pm.
~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The minors trip take on Bundoran in Father Tierney Park this Wednesday, 13th May. Throw in is at 7pm.Monday 11th was a wonderful day for Aodh Ruadh's under 16s. They beat Naomh Chonaill by 2-15 to 0-14 in the Southern Regional final at Fintra. It was a top class game of football with Glenties having the better of the opening exchanges. The movement of Conor Patton to centre half back helped to stem the attacking tide and put Aodh Ruadh on the front foot. Good work by Sylvester Maguire set up Niall Murray to palm into the net for a first half goal that left Glenties playing catch up for the remainder of the match. Aodh Ruadh went in at the break leading by 1-8 to 0-4, but Naomh Chonaill fought back gamely and came to within three points at one stage. As always Ruairí Drummond and Ronan McGurrin were powerhouses for Ballyshannon and increasingly dictated the pace of the game. McGurrin ended the game with six points to his credit, five from placed balls The introduction of Fergal Meehan in the second half also reaped significant dividends as he went on to bag himself 1-2, the goal a real peach slotted home after beating two defenders. Stephen Clarke was another who prospered in the Ballyshannon forward line where he was a consistent source of frees. At the back Martin Gallagher had another fine game in nets, making two great saves. One he did well to palm over for a point, while he managed to hold onto a second goal bound shot. Great credit has to go to everyone associated with this team. This was a great result for a bunch of lads who have been there or there about over the years, but who never quite got the results their efforts deserved. The under 16s now face a county league semi final against Saint Eunan's, the date, venue and time for that have yet to be decided.
Aodh Ruadh's under 14s travel to the Ulster Féile in Derry this Saturday 16th May. They will be based in Ballinascreen for the group stages of the competition. The first match is against Monaghan Harps and throws in at 12.45pm. That match is followed by games against Ballinascreen and Bellaghy respectively. Players will be informed of travel details in due course. Parents and players can also expect further detail on plans for the trip to the All-Ireland Féile Peil na nÓg in Kildare at the start of July over the course of the week.
The under 12s final game against Bundoran was postponed to this Tuesday 12th May. That game is down for Father Tierney Park with the throw in at 6.30pm. Players are to be at the park for 5.45pm. This is Ballyshannon's last game in the round robin section and they need a win in this game to be in with a chance of making the regional semi-finals, so a good show of support would be appreciated.
Last week's blitz, which was scheduled for Killybegs was cancelled at short notice on Saturday morning due to a waterlogged pitch. Apologies for any inconvenience caused. Outdoor training continues for under 10s this Saturday 16th May at 11.45am in Father Tierney Park. Children can be collected after training at 1pm sharp. Ballyshannon hosts the Community Games this Sunday, May 17th and Aodh Ruadh are taking part. Please note that for community games purposes your birth date MUST be AFTER 31st July 1999. The under 10 team management need to get a copy of eligible player's birth certificates at training on Saturday, or on Sunday when the Community Games take place. Players who aren't able to supply a copy of their birth certificate will not be able to play. Players should be at the park for 11am on Sunday.
Under 8 football training continues this Friday weather permitting outside on the Colaiste Cholmcille pitch this Friday evening at 6pm. If the weather is not good, it will take place in the Mercy Hall. Well done to last week's players of the week Owen and Cillian. Training finishes at 6.45pm, please collect your children at that time. Any parents or coaches wishing to help out in any small way are more than welcome. Please call up about ten minutes prior to training. There will be an under 8 challenge game against Bundoran on Saturday, 23rd May at 12 noon in Bundoran for all 7 and 8 year olds. All players to be up at the park for 11am. The bus will leave the park at 11.15 am. Any player wishing to play for the club must have club socks and shorts. These are available to buy in Culkin's sports shop (Ballyshannon Shoe Company). As always, any parents wishing to help out on the day would be more than welcome.
- 18 May
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~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh's tie against Gaoth Dobhair was postponed last Saturday. This Saturday, 23rd May, sees the seniors and reserves go into championship battle against Saint Michael's in Father Tierney Park. The reserve game throws in at 6pm with the seniors following on at 7.30pm. A big show of green and white support is asked for at what is a crucial game for the club.The thirds made the long trip to Malin in division five and got back to winning ways winning by 0-13 to 2-2. No thirds fixture had been set for this week at the time of writing.
~ PITCH BOOKINGS ~
There continue to be clashes over access to pitches. It is critical during that ALL bookings AND cancellations for Father Tierney park, Pairc Aoidh Ruaidh and the school field go through Peter Conlon to ensure the smooth operation of facilities. Call Peter on 9851386 or 087-6838024.~ PAIRC AOIDH RUAIDH ~
Pairc Aoidh Ruaidh is to get its official opening on Friday 29th May. Donegal are down to take on Sligo on what will be a very proud day for the club. With a massive push now on to finish the Munday's field site and considerable outgoings to be met it is more important than ever that members sell their Club Centenary Draw tickets and return monies urgently. Sold tickets and returns can be brought back to Tom Daly, Conal Gallagher, John Magee and Terence McShea.~ LÁ NA gCLUB ~
Brian Drummond took some shots of the Lá na gClub celebrations last Sunday week. We hope to get a selection of these pictures published on www.aodhruadh.org over the coming week.~ HURLING ~
Congratulations to young Aodh Ruadh hurlers Bryan Ward, Barry Kelly, Patrick Harron, Daire Doyle and Brendan Gillespie who took part in the Cumann na mBunscoil half time game during the Donegal v Armagh Ulster senior hurling championship game in Letterkenny last weekend.The under 16s lost at home to Knocks on Thursday last in the Fermanagh league.
The under 12 hurlers beat MacCumhaill's in a keenly contested challenge game in the magnificent new Pairc Aoidh Ruaidh on Sunday morning.
Aodh Ruadh are hosting an under 10 blitz this Sunday morning, with play commencing at 11am.
Training for under 8s, under 10s, under 12s and under 14s is on this Sunday at 12 noon. Any enquires to John Rooney on 086-2587793.
~ LADIES ~
Congratulations to Anna Rafferty and Dearbhaile McNeill who represented the club with the Under 16 Donegal ladies at the weekend. The county side secured the Ulster title taking them one step closer to All Ireland glory and following in the footsteps of the county Minor side.The under 12 girls side continued their league season last Friday when they travelled to Glenties. It proved to be a nail biting game with both sides evenly matched. The affair ended all square on a scoreline of 5-4 apiece.
Intermediate ladies training continues in the park at 10.30am every Saturday morning.
Training for the under 12 and under 14 girls continues at 6-7pm in the park every Tuesday evening.
Under 10 girls training continues, weather permitting, in Father Tierney Park this Wednesday, 20th May at 6pm.
~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The minors had their second game of the league last Wednesday. They battled hard against Bundoran and a 4-8 to 5-13 victory rather flattered the Gaelic Park outfit. Aodh Ruadh were undone by an under-powered first half where Bundoran were allowed to run up a big lead. Ballyshannon came out a different team in the second half and with ten minutes to go were within a point of the seasiders. However Bundoran to strike a goal and two points in the closing stages to seal their win. Chris Goan was Aodh Ruadh's man of the match, he was absolutely outstanding as he played a roving role from his half forward berth. David Dolan and Peter Boyle were both very good in midfield, never allowing Bundoran to get comfortable in this sector. Conor Patton and Brianán Drummond excelled at half back, while Francis McShea was also very lively and positive throughout. In the final game of their league programme the minors take on Four Masters in Donegal Town, but no fixtures has been made for this game as yet.Two big games in the space of five days are in prospect for the under 16s. First up will be their county division one league semi-final against Saint Eunan's. That takes place in Convoy, this Wednesday 20th May at 7.30pm. Five days later they are out in the championship when they take on Ardara in their first round, first leg match in Father Tierney park on Monday, 25th May, throw in at 7pm for that one. These are two massive games and this team really deserves a big, big show of support from everyone associated with Aodh Ruadh. Please come along if at all possible.
The under 14s were in south Derry last weekend at the Ulster Féile on what was a wretchedly cold and wet day. They drew with Monaghan Harps in their opening game before beating Bellaghy and Ballinascreen to progress from their section to the semi-final stage. There they came up against the Derry Féile champions, Ballerin who managed to halt the Ernesiders progress. An information pack for players and parents on the trip to the All-Ireland Féile Peil na nÓg in Kildare at the start of July will be distributed after training this Thursday, May 21st.
It's be a week of ups and downs for the under 12s. The up was a 8-9 to 2-8 win over Bundoran last Tuesday. Aodh Ruadh played a very controlled game against the seasiders containing them well in the first half as they played against the breeze. In the second Ballyshannon filled their boots to run out 19 point winners. Philip Patton was immense at centre half back, as was Oisín Roper at midfield. Oisín Kerr's work on the full back line in the first half in particular helped put Aodh Ruadh in good shape at half time. Shane McGrath was a real handful on the full forward, adding handsomely to an already bulging points haul for the year so far. There was a negative note though as Gavin McDaid sustained another injury. This time it was a concussion after an awkward fall. This has ruled him out for two weeks, so we all wish Gavin a full and speedy recovery. That result set Aodh Ruadh up with a play-off against Dungloe in Ardara on Monday, to decide who will play who in the Southern Divisional under 12 semi-finals. Ballyshannon lost out by a single point on a scoreline of 4-11 to 5-7, Aodh Ruadh didn't get out of the blocks in the first half on what was an ideal night for football and found themselves on the wrong side of a 13 point deficit at half time. There was a massive turn around in the second half though as Shane McGrath went into full forward where he plundered four goals to put Aodh Ruadh back in it. Dungloe were clinging on at the end, but they had done just enough to take third place and book a match against their Ardara neighbours. Oisín Rooney was real quality in goals and his bravery helped keep Ballyshannon in contention. Conor Kennedy displayed similar bravery and determination at half back. Kieran Kelly and Ryan Gallagher were two other players who really had stand out games. Up front Shane McGrath got four goals, while Ryan McKenna also got in for a well-taken goal. Aodh Ruadh's loss means they will be pitted against Naomh Conaill in the Divisional semi-final on Friday, 22nd with a venue and time yet to be decided. The lads are now 60 minutes away from a divisional final, a big show of support would be much appreciated on another big night for Aodh Ruadh. There is under 12 training on Wednesday 20th May at 5.30pm at the park.
Aodh Ruadh under 10 boys were winners of the Community Games Football competition in Father Tierney Park last Sunday, beating a gallant Bundoran team in the final. There were sterling performances throughout the field. Aodh Ruadh now go through to represent Donegal in the Ulster Community Games finals in Monaghan. Outdoor training continues for under 10s this Saturday 23th May at 11.45am in Father Tierney Park. Children can be collected after training at 1pm sharp.
Click for an enlarged image [636KB]A big support would be appreciated as our under 8s take on Bundoran in a challenge game in Gaelic park, Bundoran this Saturday at 12 noon. All players should be at Father Tierney Park for 11.00am. Any player wishing to play for the club must have club socks and shorts. These are available to buy in Culkin's sports shop (Ballyshannon Shoe Company). As always, any parents wishing to help out on the day would be more than welcome. Well done to last week's players of the week Kyle and Adam. Please note, there will be NO under 8 football training this Friday night.
- 25 May
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~ PAIRC AOIDH RUAIDH ~
Friday, May 29th, sees Donegal take on Sligo in a championship build-up challenge in Ballyshannon. The occasion for the challenge is the official opening of Ballyshannon's new GAA park, Pairc Aoidh Ruaidh. The culmination of over two years work, the facilities at Pairc Aoidh Ruaidh are a magnificent addition to Ballyshannon's main pitch at Father Tierney Park. Brian Roper will be captain for the day with Johnny Gallagher vice captain. Admission is ten euro, with children admitted free. Funds generated by the challenge will go towards payment of the debt generated by the construction of Pairc Aoidh Ruaidh.Throw in is at 7pm and everyone is welcome on what will be a great day for Ballyshannon.
The Pairc Aoidh Ruaidh Opening Programme is as follows:
5.00pm: Parade led by marching band from Muldoon's Spar to Pairc Aoidh Ruaidh
5.20pm: Under-age blitzes
6.00pm: Pre-opening reception
6.30pm: Formal addresses, prayer service, cutting of the tape and unveiling of plaque
7.00pm: Donegal v Sligo
8.30pm: Post game reception - open to all
The Club Centenary Draw will be made in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh on Monday night, 1st June. It is vitally important that members get their tickets sold and returned as soon as possible. Sold tickets and returns can be brought back to Tom Daly, Conal Gallagher, John Magee and Terence McShea.
~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
The seniors slumped to a 0-13 to 0-15 defeat against Saint Michael's in the first leg, first round of the championship on Saturday evening. It was a game where Aodh Ruadh were oddly out of sorts and not assisted by some pernickety refereeing. Saint Michael's started briskly going into a 0-3 to 0-1 lead in the first ten minutes, but after that Aodh Ruadh took over. Points from Pauric Buggy, Barry Ward leveled it up before Buggy was indecorously hauled down in the area and the referee gave a penalty. Pauric took the penalty and sent it over the bar. Sticky Ward was introduced on 25 minutes and his first action was to drive over a stylish point to make it double scores at 0-6 to 0-3. Moments later Sticky was in action again, this time drawing another foul in the area and Aodh Ruadh's second penalty of the game. This time Buggy struck the crossbar, but Barry Ward was able to fist a point from the rebound. Two quick Saint Michael's points left it 0-7 to 0-5 to Ballyshannon at half time. The Dunfanaghy outfit were level within two minutes after the break and the sides exchanged points before off the ball ructions intervened. Brian Roper had been receiving special attention from the Saint Michael's defence all through the match, and his ultimate reaction ten minutes into the second half saw him getting a straight red card. Garret Blake also got a straight red after the same sequence of play and some felt it was a harsh decision. Down to 13 men, it was just too big an ask for Aodh Ruadh, although they still battled gamely. Saint Michael's made clever use of their extra men and were deserved 0-13 to 0-15 winners. That result leaves Ballyshannon going to Dunfanaghy needing a win to keep their centenary championship aspirations alive. A full match report should be up on aodhruadh.org later in the week.The reserves were handsome winners against their Saint Michael's counterparts. A late goal by the visitors meant that the game finished 2-11 to 1-11.
The seniors will be looking to get back into a winning groove when they travel to Malin on Sunday in the next round of division two. That game throws in at 3pm and is preceded by the reserve game which throws in at 1.30pm.
The thirds are scheduled to travel to Pettigo this Saturday, 30th May for their latest outing in division five. Throw in at 7.30pm.
~ MEETING ~
The monthly senior club meeting takes place on Thursday 28th May in Aras Aoidh Ruadh 8.30pm. All committee members are asked to attend.~ HURLING ~
The seniors began the Donegal League with a hard fought win over Saint Eunan's at home last Wednesday coming from five points down with two minutes to go to win by a point on a scoreline of 3-8 to 2-10. A Kieran Kilgannon goal put Aodh Ruadh back in with a shout but the highlight was Anthony Coughlan's effort from 95 yards out, which dropped into the net. The seniors next match is against Strabane Shamrock on Wednesday night in Father Tierney Park at 7pm.Congratulations to Colm Kelly who won the county under 14 Féile skills competition. He will now go on to represent Donegal at the national Féile in June. Check out aodhruadh.org for a picture of Colm being presented with his award.
Click for an enlarged image [140KB]The under 14s went down in a tight tussle against Strabane Shamrocks last Saturday, losing by a goal. They play Burt in the county league semi-final this Thursday evening in the park at 7.30pm.
On Sunday morning we hosted an under 10 blitz, which was attended by Strabane Shamrocks, Letterkenny Gaels, Four Masters and Dungloe. Aodh Ruadh performed very well winning all their games. An interested spectator at this blitz was the legendary Jim Treacy of Kilkenny, who was up in the north west on his holidays. Jim has ten Leinster medals and six All-Irelands in the back pocket, not to mention two All-stars to his credit from his playing days in the late 1960s and early 1970s. He made favourable comment on the level of skill and the enthusiasm on show.
Young hurlers will be taking part in the parade as part of the opening of Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. Players should assemble at the Abbey Centre for 4.45pm.
Training for under 8s, under 10s, under 12s and under 14s is on this Sunday at 12 noon. Any enquires to John Rooney on 086-2587793.
~ LADIES ~
Intermediate ladies training continues in the park at 10.30am every Saturday morning.Training for the under 12 and under 14 girls continues at 6-7pm in the park every Tuesday evening.
Under 10 girls training continues, weather permitting, in Father Tierney Park this Wednesday, 20th May at 6pm.
~ BORD NA NÓG ~
There will be Bord na nÓg meeting in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh at 9pm on Tuesday, 26th May. All committee members are asked to attend.In light of some incidents all underage players are reminded of the following three provisions from the code of conduct they signed up to at the start of the year. 1: Be polite and respectful to team trainers and team officials at all times. 2: Be polite and respectful to fellow players at all times. 3: Be polite and respectful to referees and match officials at all times. Disciplinary issues are dealt with during monthly committee meetings. Penalties, if deemed necessary, are applied as follows. Yellow Card Offence: Suspension, from three Club events, i.e. events such as training, matches, club discos, etc. Red Card Offence: Suspension, from all club activities for the remainder of the year. Any further incidents that come to the attention of Bord na nÓg will be prosecuted fully under this disciplinary system.
If the under 12s had their ups and downs last week, it was the under 16s turn this week. First the down. That came in the form of a 1-4 to 1-8 defeat against Saint Eunan's in the county league semi final last Wednesday. Aodh Ruadh dominated the first half, but were unable to make that dominance show on the scoreboard and went in trailing by 0-3 to 1-3 at half time. After the break the Ernesiders showed some more incisive form and drew level after Ronan Drummond set Alan Finan up for a well taken goal. However Saint Eunan's were the more economic in front of posts and were able to see out the game securing a four point win and a county league final meeting against Cloughaneely. Among Aodh Ruadh's best performers was Ruairí Drummond who consistently battled hard at midfield. The display by the half back line was another plus with Eoin O'Malley Daly in particular and Sylvester Maguire displaying a never-say-die spirit. Once again Conor Patton gave a refined performance, this time at full back. The up came in the form of first round, first leg championship victory over Ardara on Monday night in Father Tierney park. It was a scrappy affair with plenty of tension evident. Niall Murray continued his goal-scoring habit with a neat effort past the Ardara net minder to help Ballyshannon to a 1-3 to 0-1 half time lead. Ardara came out a reinvigorated side in the second half and battled back to within two points of the Ernesiders. However Fergal Meehan grabbed a timely goal going into the last quarter to take the wind out of the Ardara comeback and Ballyshannon closed the game out in last five minutes. Tommy Patton gave a brilliant performance at half back, really getting stuck in for every ball. Likewise PJ Gillespie gave an exhibition at corner back. Up front James Barron had an indifferent first half, but showed guts in the second period and delivered when the pressure came on.
The beginning of league action is imminent for the under 14s with their first match of the division one campaign being penciled in for Wednesday 3rd June away to Saint Naul's with the throw in at 7pm. An information pack for players and parents / guardians on the trip to the All-Ireland Féile Peil na nÓg in Kildare at the start of July is now available
The under 12s bowed out of the league when the fell to a 4-19 to 2-7 defeat against Naomh Conaill last Friday. Glenties were the larger, better team, but Aodh Ruadh still played well throughout, giving it their all despite the quality of the opposition and can take heart from their performance. Gavin McDaid did well in goals, while Eugene Drummond continues to deliver quality performances in the full back line, as does Philip Patton at half back. In the forwards Shane McGrath was the pick and never dropped the head. There is under 12 training on Wednesday 27th May from 6.00pm to 7.00pm at the park. The final event in the under 12 season is the Willie Rogers tournament. That takes place this Saturday at Father Tierney Park and Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh with action getting under way at 11am. The under 12s are taking part in the parade as part of the opening of Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. Players should assemble at the Abbey Centre for 4.45pm.
Outdoor training continues for under 10s this Saturday 30th May at 11.45am in Father Tierney Park. Children can be collected after training at 1pm sharp. The next under 10 blitz takes place in Mountcharles on Saturday 6th June, where Saint Naul's, Aodh Ruadh, Naomh Ultan, Ardara and Pettigo will all be competing. Club jackets for under 10s can now be ordered from team management for the subsidized price of €15. The team extends its grateful appreciation to Mr. Gs for their kind and generous contribution which made this discounted scheme possible. Any under 10 players wishing to participate in the parade as part of the opening of Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh should assemble at the Abbey Centre for 4.45pm. Blitzes should commence at 5.20pm and wrap up in less than an hour.
Heavy rainfall forced the under 8 game against Bundoran to be played indoors at the new school hall in Ballyshannon. However despite the weather the day was a great success with 20 players getting to play their first game for Aodh Ruadh against a well drilled Bundoran outfit. John Patton and Aaron Darbon starred in what were great performances from the boys. Pictures from this match are available to view. This Friday night the club celebrates the opening of the new Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh with a parade and a series of underage blitzes. Children should be present at the Abbey Centre for 4.45pm to get ready for the parade. It is hoped the blitzes will start at 5.20pm in the new park, formerly known as Munday's field. Children can be collected anytime after 6.15pm.
~ LÁ NA gCLUB ~
Some of Brian Drummond's shots from the recent Lá na gClub celebrations can now be viewed.~ PITCH BOOKINGS ~
There continue to be clashes over access to pitches. It is critical during that ALL bookings AND cancellations for Father Tierney park, Pairc Aoidh Ruaidh and the school field go through Peter Conlon to ensure the smooth operation of facilities. Call Peter on 9851386 or 087-6838024.
