Club Notes Archive - 2014
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MAY
- 6 May
-
Football
Two games and two defeats in a bad few days for Aodh Ruadh. On Saturday, Aodh Ruadh let a five point half time lead slip against Red Hugh's. The damage was done in the first quarter of the second half when the home side scored five unanswered points and then three minutes from the end when the lively Colm Melaugh scored the winning goal. It finished 1-11 to 0-12 in favour of the Killygordon men. We have a full match report with pictures to come from that game up on aodhruadh.org. Then on May Bank Holiday Monday the Park played host to Naomh Colmcille. The visitors brought hunger, desire and perhaps an excess of physicality to this game, but Ballyshannon will particularly rue the final quarter where they failed to profit from having an extra man and their opponents losing their top scorer to injury. The final score of Aodh Ruadh 0-7 Naomh Colmcille 1-13 probably flatters the visitors. We have a full match report with pictures to come from the match up on aodhruadh.org.While the seniors were embarked on their own personal via dolorosa, the reserves serene progress through the league continues imperturbably. The addition of James Kelly helped ensure the points came back down the road from the trip to Killygordon. Once again goals played a big part in the Ballyshannon victory with green flags for Kelly (2), Joe Watson and Jamie McDonald contributing towards a final score of 4-7 to 2-10 in favour of the Ernesiders. There is a full match report with pictures to come from that game up on aodhruadh.org. Then on May Bank Holiday Monday it was the visit of Naomh Colmcille to Ballyshannon. The Reds were on top for much of the game, but when David Finnerty blasted home a wonder-strike with five minutes to go, they had no response and Aodh Ruadh ran out 1-10 to 0-9 winners. Again, we have an extended match summary, with pictures to come up on aodhruadh.org.
With an extra game played on all the other sides in the league, Aodh Ruadh will be sitting out the next round ACFL division three action.
The under 16s are holding a fundraising draw on Saturday May 31st with prizes including
- Four tickets (2 pairs) for the Saturday & Sunday concerts at the Rory Gallagher Festival
- 2014 Rory Gallagher limited edition framed print by Barry Sweeny
- €40 Euro Shopping voucher for Kernans Spar
- €40 Voucher for O Neill's Leisure Wear & Sports, East Port.
- €40 voucher for Marlboro House Bundoran
- Voucher for Aodh Ruadh hoodies - two as separate prizes.
Training for under 16s is on Friday at 7.30pm. Our next challenge match is against Bundoran at 7.30, Monday 12th May. This is an away match, so anyone who can help with transport please let us know. Meet at Father Tierney Park at 6.30pm Monday.
Injury played a huge role in the defeat of the under 14 Aodh Ruadh lads when they clashed with table toppers Killybegs in the regional semi-final on Saturday. They made the better start with a goal from captain Dylan Gallagher in the first minute of the game, but Killybegs soon reeled them back in again and slowly pulled ahead leaving Aodh Ruadh trailing by five points at half time. With Michael McKenna unfit to play things went from bad to worse for the Ernesiders soon into the second half, loosing Cianán Roper, Eoin Doherty and Tiernan Dolan through injury. It was an up-hill battle for the Ballyshannon men and despite great performances from Dylan Gallagher, a rock solid Pauric Keenaghan, a never say die Caolán Dolan and man of the match Senan Rooney the victory belonged to Killybegs at the final whistle. Congratulations to the lads who have showed huge improvement the season. Reaching the semi-final is a great achievement in itself in such a strong regional group. Training resumes on Wednesday, 4.30pm to 5.45pm in preparation for championship with the first game on 28th May.
The under 12s had their first outing on Saturday morning against Melvin Gaels. There was a great turnout with numbers in excess of 25 players. There were great performances all throughout the team. Special mention to Bridín Maguire in goals who made a couple of great saves, in the back Cian Barden, Daire Gallagher and Jake Foley were all very solid. In the middle Calum Ayres never stopped running and scored a couple of great points. Up front Shane Duffy, Conal Bradshaw and Kyle McCaffrey all showed well and worked hard in what was a good team performance. There is a game this Wednesday evening in Father Tierney Park against Killybegs. All players to be up at the Park for 6pm sharp. Under 12 training takes place on Saturday morning from 10.45am to 12 noon.
There will be an under 10 blitz on Monday 12th May in Father Tierney Park. We will be hosting Bundoran, Naomh Conaill and Ardara. Players are to be up at the park for 5.45pm, with the first game throwing in at 6.30pm. Players are also asked to bring club shorts and socks. With close on 100 players expected at the park we ask each family with players to supply a loaf of sandwiches to help with the catering on the day. Under 10 Training continues this week, Wednesday 6.30pm and Saturday 11pm. With our first blitz of the year pending a full turn out at training is essential. Failure to attend or provide an excuse will be taken into consideration in team selection. Congratulations to the Aodh Ruadh contingent on the Creevy National School team on their South Donegal / North Leitrim win title last week.
Well done to the under 8s who learned quickly in their first game of the season against a hard-hitting Naomh Bríd outfit. Our tackling and lifting off the ground was excellent, and we have a few items to work on ahead of our next outing so a very worthwhile fixture. The Aodh Ruadh team in Ballintra was: Killian Bradshaw, Barry Campbell, Eoin Cassidy, Tommy Clyne, Finn Coady, Eoin Doogan, Liam Doogan, Cormac Finnegan, Joshua Gallagher, Tom Holland, Donagh Kelly, Jack McCadden, Cian McDonald, Garvey Meade, James Monaghan, Tom Murphy, Ted O'Donnell, Conor O'Mahoney, Darragh O'Mahoney, Cillian Slevin and James Ward. We have a picture of the lads ahead of the game up on the Aodh Ruadh CLG Facebook page where you can also listen to the players introducing themselves. Under 8 and under 6 training continues in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh this Friday from 6.30pm to 7.30pm.
Hurling
Senior hurling training continues as normal on Mondays and Wednesdays.The annual Alan Ryan/Seamus Grimes Under 16 hurling tournament took place on Monday, as in previous years the standard of hurling was very high as some of the leading teams in Ulster and Connacht competed for honours. Taking part in this year's event were Ballinascreen (Derry, Alan Ryan holders) Cushendall (Antrim), Keady (Armagh) Padraig Pearse's (Roscommon) Four Roads (Roscommon) Tooreen (Mayo, Seamus Grimes holders) and Aodh Ruadh.
The draw had Aodh Ruadh in Group A with Pearse's and Ballinascreen. In our opening game against the Roscommon outfit our lads started well and were playing with confidence when two soft goals before half-time left them facing an uphill battle. Try as the lads might in the second half, they couldn't breach the Roscommon rear-guard and those first half goals proved crucial as they lost 2-5 to 0-6.
We were up against 2013 Féile na nGael Division 3 champions and reigning Alan Ryan holders Ballinascreen in the second game. This was a fiercely contested game and despite having the aid of the breeze we went in at half time trailing 0-4 to 0-0.We were now fighting for survival in the Alan Ryan section, and put in a great second half and began believing that they were fit to compete with the Derry men. Despite conceding a last minute goal we ran out winners of a great game 2-2 to 1-4.
The stage was now set for us to play Four Roads in the semi-final. They had won their three games in Group B and were a big strong physical team. The lads are aware from years of hurling together that semi-finals are for winning and they won another close encounter by three points.
They were now into the final against newly crowned Mayo under 16 league champions Tooreen, and what a final the large crowd were treated to. This game was played at a hectic pace where two teams gave their all to win the Alan Ryan cup, it was nip and tuck throughout and the half time score was 0-2 apiece. Aodh Ruadh got a goal early in the second half, but the East Mayo men replied immediately with a goal of their own. The vocal home crowd were treated to a great finish as the Aodh Ruadh lads threw themselves into every tackle and ran out worthy winners 1-5 to 1-3. This very small panel of 18 players improved as the day went on and were deserving winners of the title. Their discipline and attitude throughout the day were a credit to them and their families.
The Seamus Grimes final was equally as entertaining as first timers to this tournament the famed Cushendall proved victorious against Ballinascreen over in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh.
So after 14 games of hurling between seven very evenly matched teams all intent on playing hurling as it should be we had our two winners, and another great tournament came to an end.
From the battle fields it was up Aras Aoidh Ruaidh where the Ryan and Grimes families supported by the mothers of the Aodh Ruadh under 16s laid on a feast where over 200 people were catered for. Stories were told and new contacts were made.
John Rooney Chairman Aodh Ruadh Juvenile Hurling Committee thanked the Ryan and Grimes family for allowing them host this tournament, he thanked all the teams who had made the effort to travel on the day. He spoke of his memories of Alan and Seamus and their love of hurling and how they loved to see the game played in the proper spirit and how today's tournament was such a tribute to the two lads.
Eddie Grimes spoke on behalf of the Grimes family and thanked all who made the day such a success, he thanked all the teams and their coaches, he thanked all the referees, lines men and umpires. He presented the runners up medals first to Ballinascreen, he then presented the Seamus Grimes trophy to a delighted Cushendall captain.
Kerry Ryan senior spoke on behalf of the Ryan family, he thanked all involved in making the day happen, he thanked all the catering staff for their sterling efforts all day. He called on his son Kerry to present the runners up medals to a fine skilful Tooreen team. Then came the moment we all waited for as Fr McManus presented the Alan Ryan cup to an exhausted pair of Aodh Ruadh joint captains, Brendan Gillespie and Oisín Rooney.
John Rooney finished off proceedings by thanking the referees Aidan Ferguson (Erne Gaels) and Aodh Ruadh's Peter Horan, both lads had a very busy day and were very consistent throughout and won much admiration from many. John singled out Peter for his dedication in giving up his role as part of the back room team of the under 16s to spend the day reffing. He thanked all who helped on the day, thanks also to Johnny Gallagher and the Park Committee who had the pitches and dressing rooms in great order. Thanks are also due to the club executive and the management teams of the Reserves and Seniors who changed the starting times of their games with Naomh Colmcille and thanks as always to Brian Drummond for all his photography work. John wished all a safe trip home and looked forward to seeing them all again in 2015. We have pictures from the day's action up on aodhruadh.org.Our under 14s travelled to play Saint Eunan's in the league last Thursday evening. They suffered a heavy defeat against the Letterkenny lads. The boys are having a difficult season but well done to the 15 who travelled and tried their best.
The under 12s got their season off to a good start on Sunday as they travelled to a blitz in Manorhamilton. They beat Manorhamilton in their opening game, they lost to Carrick-on-Shannon in the second game. They played Carrick-on-Shannon in the final game and lost out by one point after extra time. Well done to all the lads who travelled, thanks to the parents who drove the lads to Manorhamilton your support is much appreciated. They have a challenge game this Friday versus Four Masters at home.
Training as normal for all ages on Sunday at 12 noon.
Donegal meet and greet
Donegal GAA will host a meet and greet our county players on Saturday 10th May at 11.30am in MacCumhaill Park, Ballybofey. From 11.30am until 12 noon watch an open training session with our Senior Footballers as they prepare to recapture the Anglo Celt Cup. From 12 noon on patrons will be able to meet and chat to our players get autographs and photographs. Be in with a chance to win a Donegal Jersey.Ladies
We have some pictures from the Aodh Ruadh under 14 ladies first home game of the season against Saint Naul's live now on aodhruadh.org.Donegal meet and greet
Donegal GAA will host a meet and greet our county players on Saturday 10th May at 11.30am in MacCumhaill Park, Ballybofey. From 11.30am until 12 noon watch an open training session with our Senior Footballers as they prepare to recapture the Anglo Celt Cup. From 12 noon on patrons will be able to meet and chat to our players get autographs and photographs. Be in with a chance to win a Donegal Jersey.Fantasy Race For Sam
Entry forms for the third annual Fantasy Race For Sam are now available in The Bridgend, Owen Roe's, Seán Óg's and Ballybookies as well as from any committee member. The winner will pocket €500, with the entrant in last place receiving €100. The rules are as follows. All entrants names and monies to be in by Friday 16th May. The draw for teams and players will take place on Saturday 17th May. Each entrant will get a team from each province. Each entrant will get a forward from each province. All games including the qualifiers will be included. The Mayo v New York takes place on 4th May so any entrant who gets either Mayo or their forward will have the points added to their score. New York are not included on the player or team list. All entrants teams and players will be randomly selected. Entry costs €20 per entry. You can enter as often as you like. The scoring works like this. Your team get 10 points for a win and five points for a draw. In the event of extra time in a match, the scoring will reflect the result at the end of extra time and not 70 minutes. Your player gets a point for every point scored. Goal counts as three points. Your team gets a bonus of 10 points for winning their provincial title. Your team gets a bonus of 10 points for winning the All-Ireland final. In the event of joint winners/losers prizes will be shared. The committee's decision is final. The updated league table will be available on aodhruadh.org every Tuesday.Quiz for kit
With the co-operation of the six primary school principals in the club area, Aodh Ruadh provides four qualified coaches to give boys and girls living locally the opportunity to play football and hurling. There has been a high level of interest from the children since this initiative commenced in March. On Thursday, 8th May at 9.30pm a table quiz will be held in Owen Roe's. The proceeds will assist with the purchase of equipment and gear to improve and develop this coaching initiative Support would be welcome. Anyone wishing to put in a team or take part can come along on the night. For further information contact David McLoone, Conal Gallagher, Tom Daly, Michael Daly or any Aodh Ruadh committee member.
- 13 May
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Football
Aodh Ruadh return to ACFL division three action this Sunday when they will be travelling to Buncrana. Throw-in at Scarvey is 1.30pm for the reserves, with the seniors following at 3pm.This Saturday the under 14s are away on the Michael Kelly Haulage Fun Day in May. All players will meet at the park for 8.15am. The day starts by travelling to Carrick-on-Shannon where they take on the local under 14 team. We then take the short journey back to Lough Key Forest Park where the lads are split up into teams of five or six to take on the Boda Borg challenge. This game contains fun filled activities, puzzles and enjoyable tasks. New paths are explored, together with curiosity, laughter and excitement. To end the day we then return to Marlboro House for dinner and a few surprises. This day is totally focused on team building and having the craic. The under 14 management would like to thank our sponsor Michael Kelly Haulage for his contribution to the funding of this trip.
The under 10s entertained, Ardara, Bundoran and Naomh Conaill for the first official Southern Minor Board blitz of the season in Father Tierney Park on Monday evening. The showers held off and we had a great evening for football. The seniors gave a good account of the themselves winning all their games, while the juniors also did well winning one, losing one and drawing one. Well done to all the players who pulled on an Aodh Ruadh jersey: Ronan Barron, Daniel Breen Brosnan, Seamie Campbell, Conor Cleary, Oisin Daly, Ryan Daly, Shane Delahunty, Kian Duncan, Michael Doogan, JJ Doran, Darragh Flood Dolan, Finn Gallagher, Jack Gallagher, James Gallagher, Aaron Horan, Ryan Keenaghan, Eoghan Kelly, Grainne Maguire, Art Mag Fhionnghaile, Lorc Mag Fhionnghaile, Shane McGloin, Cian McKenna, Ronan McKenna, Cillian Meehan, Aaron Neilan, David Roper, Drew Ryan, Eoin Summerville and Aidan Sweeny. See you all at training on Wednesday evening at 6.30pm. Thanks to everyone who helped put on the great spread in the Aras after the games and our referees, David Hoey, Val Murray, Aidan Murray and Gerard Ferguson. Thanks also to Bundoran, Naomh Conaill and Ardara for providing good sporting opposition.
Under 8 and under 6 training continues in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh this Friday from 6.30pm to 7.30pm.
Bord na nÓg have changed how they are doing the lotto from this week on. All teams are being assigned a time to cover and each manager will be asking parents to help out and take their turn at covering the lotto. So if you are approached by the manager please be willing to help out or even better offer to take a slot as managers are already doing a lot and would appreciate the help. Bord na nÓg cover the lotto every three weeks so that 17 times a year which isn't a lot. U6s - 10am - 11am
U8s - 11am - 12noon
U10s - 12 noon - 1pm
U12s - 1pm - 2pm
U14s - 2pm - 3pm
U16s - 3pm - 4pm
U18s - 4pm - 5pm
All help is appreciated and the more members we have involved in the club the stronger the club.Ladies
Our under 8s, 10s and 12s continue to train on Monday from 6-7pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh with large numbers consistently in attendance.The under 14s second round game against Termon has been cancelled this week and will be played at a later date. A challenge game between our under 14s and under 16s is being organised and will be confirmed by the managers. The next game in the league for under 14s will be at home against Naomh Conaill with date and time to be confirmed.
Training for under 16s, minors and seniors takes place on Tuesday and Thursday at 7pm. Best of luck to our seniors who have an away game against Four Masters in the 13-a-side league this Sunday 18th May.
Good luck also to Dearbhaile O'Moore, Briana Maher and Mary Flora Scott who will represent Aodh Ruadh on the Donegal team at the under 14 All Ireland blitz in Mullingar this weekend. Congratulations to Roise Keon and Maeve Liston, our two county minor players, who have been successful in reaching the Ulster final.
Hurling
The minors unbeaten run came to an end on the same night against their fierce rivals of the last few years, Buncrana. The Buncrana lads were physically stronger and their ability to score goals allowed them run out easy winners on the night. These two sides meet again on Thursday night in the Minor League final in O'Donnell Park, Letterkenny with a 7pm. throw in. The Inishowen lads are favourites to claim the title and our lads will have to put in a much improved performance from last week to compete with Buncrana. These two teams have had some great battles since under 12 and hopefully our lads will raise their game for the final and ensure that we have another great game between two very committed teams.The under 14s had a welcome victory on Thursday last in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh against Burt. After a couple of very heavy defeats the lads showed great resilience, sticking at their game and working hard at training and their efforts were rewarded with a comprehensive victory over the Inishowen men 4-9 to 1-1. It was a great team performance and all lads played their part in this win.
The under 12s had a challenge game against Four Masters in Father Tierney Park on Friday and had a comfortable win.
Our under 8s and under 10s are heading to Convoy on Sunday morning for the second all-county blitz, hopefully we will have as much fun as we had at the first blitz as all the boys and girls continue to learn the skills of our great game. There is no training for under 8s and under 10s this Sunday due to the blitz.
On Sunday morning Councilor Barry O'Neill, Park Committee Chairman Tom Daly and Club President, Owen Roe O'Neill, attended underage training in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh, where Councilor O'Neill announced funding of €4,000 to go towards the construction of a Hurling Wall at Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. Councilor O'Neill allocated this welcome funding from the Development Fund Initiative. Attached photo shows members of the under 16 team that won the Alan Ryan Cup with members of our under 8 team, underage coaches and the above mentioned men.
Fantasy race for Sam
Entry forms for the third annual Race for Sam are now available in Ballybookies, Sean Óg's bar, Owen Roe's bar, The Bridgend bar and Doherty bookies as well as from any committee member. The winner takes home €500 and whoever is unlucky enough to finish last pockets €100. The rules are as follows. All entrants names and monies to be in by Friday 16th May. The draw for teams and players will take place on Saturday 17th May. Each entrant will get a team from each province. Each entrant will get a forward from each province. All games including the qualifiers will be included. The Mayo v New York takes place on 4th May so any entrant who gets either Mayo or their forward will have the points added to their score. New York are not included on the player or team list. All entrants teams and players will be randomly selected. Entry costs â‚20 per entry. You can enter as often as you like. The scoring works like this. Your team get 10 points for a win and five points for a draw. In the event of extra time in a match, the scoring will reflect the result at the end of extra time and not 70 minutes. Your player gets a point for every point scored. Goal counts as three points. Your team gets a bonus of 10 points for winning their provincial title. Your team gets a bonus of 10 points for winning the All-Ireland final. In the event of joint winners/losers prizes will be shared. The committee's decision is final. The updated league table will be available on aodhruadh.org every Tuesday.
- 20 May
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Football
Aodh Ruadh got back to winning ways in division three with a 2-12 to 0-11 victory over Buncrana in Scarvey on Sunday afternoon. The Ernesiders took time to find their feet though with all the early pressure coming from Buncrana and Peter Boyle by far the busier of the two keepers. Jamie McDonald got a quality score from out wide to help keep the score board ticking over for the visitors and as the half wore on Ballyshannon started to come more into proceedings. And when David McGurrin scrambled home a ball in from Damian Cleary they were definitively in the ascendancy. The half time score was 1-7 to 0-4 in favour of Aodh Ruadh. In the second half the defence shut up shop with Michael Dolan, Michael Ward and Johnny Gallagher giving up precious little in the way of scoreable chances. Around the centre of the field Conor Patton and Johnny Gethins gathered up plenty of primary possession and with the likes of David Dolan proving very sticky up front, there was plenty of attacking threat. David McGurrin added a second goal to copper fasten the win. That result combined with a surprise home defeat for Naomh Colmcille against Naomh Bríd sees Aodh Ruadh return to the summit of division three, albeit on a share of top spot with Naomh Columba and Naomh Colmcille still with a game in hand. We have Cathal Maguire's shots from the game up on aodhruadh.org.The reserves doled out a 4-20 to 0-6 beating against Buncrana on Sunday afternoon. The homesters got the first score of the game, but Ballyshannon took over from there on in. Two goals in the first half from David Finnerty and Anthony Coughlan effectively ended the game as a contest, the interval score reading 2-12 to 0-3. Two further goals in the second half from Michael 'Sticky' Ward and Val Murray set the seal on an emphatic win. In what was an excellent team performance, there were great individual displays right across the pitch, particularly from Ciaran Slevin at the back who was first to every ball, Darren Gethins who won a tremendous amount of ball from his half back position, Finnerty again was powerful in the middle, with Sticky Ward and Spanny Goan doing most of the damage up front. There'll be tougher tests to come on the road for the reserves, but for now there is a 100 percent record to preserve, with a trip to neighbours Naomh Bríd up next. There is a full match report and Cathal Maguire's pictures from the game up on aodhruadh.org.
Aodh Ruadh are out in ACFL division three action again this Saturday. This time it is the short trip up the N15 to take on Naomh Bríd. The reserve game throws in at 6pm and is followed by the seniors at 7.30pm.
Good luck to Niall Harley and Colm Kelly and the rest of the Donegal minors as they take on Derry in Celtic Park in the first round of the Ulster championship this Sunday.
A great days craic was had by all at the under 14s fun day last Saturday, which included a pit stop to the pure breed bull show in Carrick-on-Shannon mart to keep the farmers on the trip happy. At the banquet in Marlboro House in the evening a number of trophies were awarded. The first two presentations of the evening went to Donagh McGowan and Ciaran Hodgins for the most improved players of the year, Pauric Keenaghan scooped up the trophy for overall player of the year and the final trophy went to the one and only Odhran Kennedy for something he'd be better explaining himself. Back to business this week for the under 14s with them hosting the annual Sean Slevin tournament this Saturday. Training as usual this Wednesday from4.30pm to 5.30pm in preparation for this tournament.
The under 12s took on our neighbours Naomh Bríd at the weekend in a challenge match in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. Good performances were seen throughout the team with David Doherty, Cian Barden and Nathan Owens-Kelly resolute in defence, while up front Damian Weber, Frankie McGinley and Daire Warren pulled the strings and created some very good scores. Well done to all the lads, as everybody showed great commitment and effort. We have another challenge this Wednesday 21st May against Glencar / Manorhamilton. All players to be at Father Tierney Park for 6.15pm sharp. Don't forget your club gear and mouth guards.
The under 10 training continues this Wednesday at 6.30pm and on Saturday at 11am.
Under 8 training continues this Friday in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh at 6.30pm. We also have an under 8 blitz this Saturday 24th May in Ballintra. The games throw in at 11am and we are asking parents/guardians to provide transport directly to the game. Anyone who is unable to travel to the game but who has a player who needs a lift is asked to contact John Hughes on 0876431805. Players are asked to be at the grounds in Naomh Bríd for 10.30pm at the latest in order to allow us to determine numbers and get the lads warmed up.
Under 6 training continues this Friday in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh at 6.30pm.
Ladies
The Ladies Committee are reminding all our players and parents that registration money must be paid this week if you have not already done so. Please note that players will NOT be allowed to play as they will not be covered by insurance if not registered. Contact your team manager as soon as possible if you are in this position.Our under 12s are looking forward to hosting their first Go Games Blitz on Saturday 7th June with teams invited from Saint Naul's, Four Masters, Bundoran and Killybegs.
The under 10s have a focus for their training at the moment as they will play a challenge game against Naomh Molaise of Grange in the near future.
Training for under 8s, 10s and 12s continues on Monday at 6pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh.
The under 14s will play Naomh Conaill at home this Friday at 6.00pm. Training for under 16s, minors and seniors continues on Tuesday and Thursday at 7.00pm. Our seniors had a narrow defeat against Four Masters on Sunday 18th in the first round of the 13-a-side competition. The score was 3-5 to 3-3.
Well done to Briana Maher, Dearbhaile O'Moore, Mary Flora Scott and Assistant County under 14 Manager Eoin O'Moore who represented Aodh Ruadh at the All-Ireland blitz in Mullingar at the weekend. There was no silverware, but a great experience playing Peil na mBan was the prize on offer. Best of luck to Roise Keon and Maeve Liston who will play for the Donegal minors against Armagh in the Ulster B Final this weekend.
Hurling
On Thursday last Aodh Ruadh and Buncrana had a terrific battle in the Minor League final in O' Donnell Park, Letterkenny, these teams have contested the majority of underage county finals since 2009 and like all previous encounters this was a brilliant game. Two fully committed teams gave their all on the night. A mutual respect has built up between these two clubs and Thursday's game was a great advertisement for the game of hurling. Every challenge was fully contested, with very few frees in the game and no cards it was hurling played at its best.
The Buncrana men raced into a 2-4 to 0-0 lead after 10 minutes as the Aodh Ruadh team seemed very nervous. A number of positional changes made the difference and the boys began hurling better as a unit. There was no score for approximately eight minutes before Aodh Ruadh got their first score, a goal, and it was like turning on a light switch as they outscored Buncrana 3-5 to 0-1 over the remainder of the half, leaving the half time score 3-5 to 2-5 in favour of the Ernesiders.
Buncrana scored 1-1 early in the second half and it was all level. And that was how it remained level until Buncrana got a pair of goals which rocked Ballyshannon. Points were exchanged and the crowd were on the edge of their seats as the high standard of play never dropped. With five minutes to go the Inishowen lads had built up a lead of 8 points, but true to the great character of this Aodh Ruadh team they fought back to leave only two points in it as the game moved into injury time. The final whistle went with Buncrana ahead 6-9 to 5-10. All present agreed that this was one of the best underage hurling games in Donegal in years and indeed this game would have done justice to a Senior county final. There was disappointment at the end, but our full panel can be very proud of the part they played in this classic game full of passion, commitment and skill. The squad, despite missing a number of key players for various reasons, had a great league campaign and they enter the championship full of confidence and belief as a result of this run and are ready to put in the hard work necessary for a good championship campaign in July. A great sign for the future is that out of the 35 players that played in the final only three of them are overage in 2015.
Thanks to all the parents who drove the lads to Letterkenny and gave them great support throughout the game. The support of the parents as always is much appreciated by all associated with the team.On the same day the under 14s played MacCumhaill's in their final league game in Father Tierney Park. The lads were close to a strong Ballybofey team for the majority of the first half and the game was quite close at half time. A nasty hand injury to Liam O'Sullivan early in the second half seemed to knock the confidence out of the home team. MacCumhaill's powered on and our lads' heads dropped and the Finn Valley men ran out easy winners 7-8 to 2-5. We finished fourth in the league setting up a very difficult semi-final against an unbeaten Buncrana team in Scarvey this Thursday. We wish Liam well as he makes a speedy recovery from his injury.
On Sunday morning, 25 of our youngest hurlers headed to the Centre of Excellence in Convoy for the second all-county blitz. We had two under 8 teams made up of 15 players, and one under 10 team with 10 players. Other clubs who took part included Buncrana, Saint Eunan's, Dungloe, Carndonagh, Letterkenny Gaels, Strabane Shamrocks and Setanta. The under 8s showed a great improvement from the first blitz and competed very well in all the games with both teams securing a number of good results. The under 10s did very well winning all their games. It was a great turn out by our teams, considering we had a good number of players missing due to First Holy Communion and holidays and thankfully it bodes well for the future. We're all looking forward to the next blitz in June. Again we have to thank all the parents who drove the teams to Convoy and made the effort to come out and support our youngest teams, their support is much appreciated.
Training as normal this Sunday at 12 noon.
Fantasy race for Sam
The fantasy race for Sam 2014 got underway at the weekend. All runners and riders have been chosen, although a number of spares were also drawn and placed in sealed envelopes so we still have places available if you want to be part of the action. You will need to get your request in to Sean O'Mahoney before 5pm on Saturday though. The first leader of the year is Kevin Loughlin with his team of Leaky Plumbers. He amassed 38 points (Mayo-10, Laois-10, C O'Connor-11, S McCormack-7). In joint second place is Philip Patton and his team, County Colours, and Darren Cox and his team, Ernie Gaels, both on 34 points. In fourth place is Bobby Murphy and his team, The Kingdom, on 33 points. Indeed the county board have received his request for a transfer to the might Kerry and it will be processed this week! Rounding out the top five is Jerry Gallagher and his outfit, Belleek Boys, on 32 points. With only a few games played so far there are still some people yet to score this year. The complete entry list along with the list of scorers from each county and the first week leader board are now available on aodhruadh.org, The Bridgend Bar and Ballybookies. Anyone who has yet to pay for their entry is urged to do so as soon as possible.Hoodies
The second and final batch of Aodh Ruadh hoodies are back and available for collection. There will be a collection session this Wednesday, 21st May from 7.45pm to 8.45pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. Contact John on 0876431805 if you would like to make alternative collection arrangements.Bingo
The €400 jackpot at last Friday's bingo was won by Molly Ferguson of Belleek. Bingo as usual in the Abbey Centre this Friday at 9pm. Full books €10, Half books €5. Game five playing for a €260 snowball prize on 48 numbers or less. Snowball goes up by €20 per week until the snowball won!
- 27 May
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Football
Aodh Ruadh enjoyed a comprehensive 1-6 to 4-14 win over Naomh Bríd in Ballintra on Saturday afternoon. The result sees Aodh Ruadh go clear at the top of the division three table, although the other main promotion contenders all have games in hand. Peter Boyle's shot stopping was fully tested and not found wanting, while Damien Cleary and Ciron Whoriskey defended with verve. Pauric Patton didn't look out of place in his first outing in a senior jersey and in the middle of the pitch Ronan McGurrin and Kerry Ryan both gave combative displays. The half forward line was the engine room of this win, with the creativity of Anthony Boyle, David McGurrin and Ronan Drummond just too much for Naomh Bríd to deal with. Up front David Dolan was a terror with Jamie McDonald and Diarmaid McInerney exploiting opportunities ruthlessly. We have a full match report and pictures from the game up on aodhruadh.org.Aodh Ruadh reserves sustained their first defeat of the season with a 3-11 to 4-4 loss in Páirc Naomh Bríd. The Ballintra Laghey men were clearly up for this one and set about their work with gusto in the first half, and had a goal and a point on the board within minutes, punishing a very flat start by Aodh Ruadh. They hit another goal just before half time to lead at the break 2-6 to 1-3. To have closed to within four points of Naomh Bríd by the finish, despite what was a below par performance from the Ernesiders was good going in itself. There weren't too many stand out performances on this occasion, but the work of Sticky Ward gave the visitors a lifeline, creating bother for Ballintra any time he got on the ball. Cookie O'Halloran got on a lot of ball in the second half and dealt well with a lot of physical treatment. We have an extended match report and pictures from the game, the joint efforts of Cathal Maguire and Brian Drummond up on aodhruadh.org.
Aodh Ruadh are on a break next week with the Rory Gallagher festival. The next scheduled ACFL division three action is away against Burt the following Saturday, 7th June.
Congratulations to the Donegal minors who completed the first part of a double over Derry on Sunday afternoon with a 1-10 to 0-8 victory. Well done to Niall Harley and Colm Kelly and also to team mentor Mick McGrath.
Saturday last seen a great display of football with teams from Donegal, Leitrim and Fermanagh taking part in the annual Sean Slevin under 14 memorial tournament. After some very close encounters at the group stages it was the hosts, Aodh Ruadh, and Saint Mary's from Carrick-on-Shannon who contested the final. In what was absolutely perfect conditions for football Aodh Ruadh took an early lead knocking up 1-1 before Saint Mary's made any reply. A very strong Carrick team dug deep and managed to draw level just before the stroke of half-time. Saint Mary's started strongest in the second half pulling two point ahead but a Michael McKenna goal gave Aodh Ruadh the advantage again midway through the second half. Saint Mary's scored another few points but a beautiful Evan McTernan goal in the dying minutes sealed the win for Aodh Ruadh by the narrowest of margins leaving the score Aodh Ruadh 3-2 Saint Mary's 1-7. Thanks to all the parents who helped out on the day with catering making sure that everyone was well fed. Thanks to Raymond Granaghan who helped keep things running on time and to Shane Toolan and David Hoey, our referees for the day. We have a large gallery of pictures from the tournament up on aodhruadh.org. The under 14s are back in championship action this Wednesday at home to Naomh Columba with a 7pm throw in. A good showing of support for the lads would be greatly appreciated.
The under 12s hosted Glencar Manorhamilton last Wednesday in Father Tierney Park with a lot of good performances from the Aodh Ruadh players over the course of the two games.
The under 10s take on Saint Naul's in Father Tierney Park this Tuesday. Players to be at the park for 6.15pm with the first games throwing in at 6.45pm. Training as usual on Saturday at 11am.
Well done to our under 8 players who took part in a blitz in Ballintra last Saturday. They showed great progression across the four games. We have a team shot of the players up on the Aodh Ruadh Facebook page. Representing Aodh Ruadh on the day were Killian Bradshaw, Eoin Cassidy, Ben Daly, Eoin Doogan, Liam Doogan, Sadhbh Hughes, Tom Holland, Donagh Kelly, Micheál Keown, Cian McDonald, Hugh Óg Maguire, James Monaghan, Tom Murphy, Ted O'Donnell, Cillian Slevin and James Ward. Under 8 training continues this Friday in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh at 6.30pm.
Under 6 training continues this Friday in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh at 6.30pm.
Ladies
Good luck to our senior team who travel to Carndonagh this Tuesday evening to play in All-county division 2, 13-a-side league, with a throw-in at 7.30pm.Our under 14s played Naomh Chonaill last Friday in the second round of the league. Naomh Conaill notched up a good number of early scores in the first half. Despite a great come-back by Aodh Ruadh in the second half the Glenties side came away with the win. This is the first game our girls have conceded. Next up for them is a home game against Termon, details of which will be confirmed shortly. The final game in round two will be an away match against Gaoth Dobhair. We have some pictures from the game up on aodhruadh.org.
Next Saturday, June 7th, the under 12s are hosting the first of this year's blitzes. We will have Bundoran, Four Masters, Saint Naul's and Killybegs coming and the games are due to start at 11am. Again we will need parents to help out, in this case with the catering for the event with a lot of players due to be on the premises. Please let the coaches know if you have an hour or more to offer to help with the organisation of what should be a great day.
The under 8s and under 10s are travelling to Grange this Saturday, 31st May, for some mini-games. The fun begins at 1pm and we are looking for parents to help out with the transport. Please let the coaches know if you intend to travel and can offer lifts.
Finally, if you still have to pay your ladies membership the time is NOW. Contact your team manager. No fee = no insurance cover = no game.
Hurling
Aodh Ruadh confined MacCumhaill's to a solitary point from open play in a comfortable 2-10 to 0-4 Ulster Táin Hurling League division three victory on Sunday evening. That win pushes Aodh Ruadh up to fifth in the table. Defensively Shane McNulty stood out, while Ciaran Kilgannon and Paul Hughes had a stranglehold around the middle of the pitch and up front the half forward line of Chris Kilgannon, Conor Gilmartin and Conor McNeely were exceptional. Chris Kilgannon also top scored with a haul of 1-4. We have a full match report and pictures from the game up on aodhruadh.org.The under 14s suffered a heavy and demoralising defeat on Thursday last against Buncrana in the league semi-final in Scarvey. The lads never got to grips with the pace of the game and offered very little challenge to a strong Buncrana team. We only had the bare 15 for this game and credit to those who travelled and tried their best. It's been a tough league campaign for this panel, but great credit is due to the lads who stuck with it when other players withdrew from the panel.
Best of luck to Eddie Lynch, Ciaran Rami, Eugene Drummond, Oisín Roper, Brendan Gillespie, Oisín Rooney and Dónal Sweeny who are on the Donegal minor panel who play Derry this Saturday in Celtic Park in the Ulster Minor Championship.
Underage training continues on Sunday at 12 noon all welcome especially beginners.
Cash for Clothes
Cash for Clothes for the month of June the Aodh Ruadh Juvenile Hurling Committee are having their annual Cash for Clothes fund-raising collection. We're collecting unwanted clothing in good condition, shoes, belts and handbags, we're also collecting blankets, sheets, curtains once they're bagged separately. This is a good chance to clean out your wardrobes and help us raise funds for the promotion and development of underage hurling in Aodh Ruadh. Contact any of the following who will arrange collection of your unwanted clothing etc Tara Keenaghan 086-3331903, Fionnuala Gillespie 087-6668634 and John Rooney 086-2587793.Fantasy race for Sam
Top of the pile this week is Gerry Gallagher and his team Belleek Boys on 58 points. His team (Tyrone-10, Galway-10 and O'Hare-6) has placed him in first place this week. In second place is Philip Patton and his team, County Colours, on 50 points, with his younger brother John Patton Jr another point adrift in third with his team, Yes Patsy. Another Gerry Gallagher and his team Ardara Forever are in fourth place on 45 points with Darren Cox and his team of Ernie Gaels rounding out the top five on 44 points. With the Patton brothers fighting it out at the top, its Rebecca Patton and her team of Legal Eagles that occupy last place along with Aiden Givens and his team, Whiskey Is Best. Both of them have yet to score a solitary point. As always the leader board and the complete entry list is available on aodhruadh.org, The Bridgend Bar, Ballybookies and Owen Roes Bar. Anyone who has yet to pay for their entry is urged to do so as soon as possible.Bingo
The winner of the €400 jackpot was Kathleen Flanagan (again!) from Belleek. This Friday is the May Big Bingo, with a prize fund of almost €2,900, with a €1,000 jackpot game. Books are €15 for a full book, €8 for a half, or buy your book and a half for €20. The Game 5 summer snowball continues to grow, and now stands at €280 on 49 numbers or less.
23 May 2014
Fixtures
There is been a change of throw-in times for the ACFL Division Three games against Naomh Bríd in Ballintra this Saturday. Reserves throw in at 4.15pm followed by the seniors at 5.30pm.Our senior hurlers are also in action this weekend. They will be playing MacCumhaill's this Sunday at 6.30pm in one of their few home games in Ballyshannon in Ulster Táin Hurling League Division Three. As these are rare games we'd like to see a good home support up for the Ernesiders.