Club Notes Archive - 2016
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APRIL
- 5 April
-
Football
Aodh Ruadh's will face early division 3 pace-setters Buncrana this Saturday in the Park at 6.45pm. The team had an excellent win against Fanad Gaels the first day out and we'd like to see a big, vocal support up in the park to get behind Peter Gallagher's men in their first game on home turf this season. The Reserve game will take place in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh at 5.15pm.Congratulations to Ballyshannon exile PJ McGee who starred at half forward as Oisin's CLG Manchester swept to victory over St Peter's in the final of the Senior Pennine League at Old Bedians in Didsbury on Sunday. We taught you well Sham.
Derby bragging rights went to Bundoran as their minors got the better of Aodh Ruadh on a scoreline of 2-15 to 1-10 in Gaelic Park last Wednesday. Next up for the minors is the visit of Saint Naul's to Father Tierney Park on Wednesday.
The under 14s had two games over the past week. The first was played last Saturday and saw the lads go down to a narrow two point defeat in Tir Chonaill Park, Four Masters winning on a scoreline of 5-9 to 5-7. Better news from the second though, with the Ernesiders recording a good 4-13 to 4-4 victory over Saint Naul's in Mountcharles on Monday evening. The game in Donegal town saw the Ernesiders slow to start and the hosts were ahead by 4-4 to 2-4 at the break. However Aodh Ruadh steadily clawed their way through the deficit over the course of the second half, but time just ran out with Four Masters still two points to the good. Most of Aodh Ruadh's best performances on Saturday were in the rearguard. Jake Foley was excellent in goals with Kyle Murray also outstanding at full back. There was good assistance Calum Craig Doherty and Mark McGlynn too. Up front Cian Barden was the best attacker on show for the visitors. On Monday evening the scoreline doesn't quite tell the full story with Aodh Ruadh only really getting on top of Saint Naul's in the closing moments of the game. The Mountcharles men lead at half-time on a scoreline of 1-5 to 3-3, but Ballyshannon really upped their game in the second half and outscored Naul's 3-8 to 1-1 to secure the win. Shane Brady and Eugene Doherty were among the goals while Cian Barden again shone in the attack. Meanwhile there was a tenacious display from Marty McGarrigle in defence. Aodh Ruadh now sit second in the table on four points, but with a game in hand on Naomh Conaill on six points. The under 14s are back in action this Friday when they entertain Four Masters in Father Tierney Park. Under 14 boys training continues on Wednesday at 4.15pm sharp.
Under 12 training continues on Mondays and Fridays from 5.15pm to 6.30pm, in Páirc Aoidh Ruadh.
Under 10, under 8 and under 6 training continues this Friday from 6.30pm to 7.30pm at Páirc Aoidh Ruadh. Running in parallel with the under 8 training will be our first skills test of the season, so it is important we get full attendance on Friday. We will also need some parents to mark at each station. It's very simple and full instructions will be given, so don't be afraid to put the hand up for this one.
Ladies
Realt Rua played their first challenge as a team at the park on Saturday against Glencar Manorhamilton. This was the first game played by the new team and although it ended in a loss it was a great workout. Realt Rua take on Grange in a challenge game on Tuesday 5th in Bundoran at 7pm. We will be meeting at park at 6.20pm for anyone needing lifts. The season gets off to a start this Sunday 10th away to Ardara and we wish Realt Rua all the best.Aodh Ruadh under 14s got their competitive season off the mark on Saturday afternoon when they entertained Four Masters at Father Tierney Park. The game ended in a draw after a match where the hosts dictated for a long spells and hit the woodwork on no less than five occasions. Aodh Ruadh were leading at half time and after an even second half there was some confusion over the final score, which the home support and management had down as a one point win, but the referee called as a draw game. Aodh Ruadh had a good performance from Áine Hill between the posts, saving a second half penalty and being secure under the high ball. Alicia Clyne did a great job holding the defence together with support Leah Travers and Orla Keon. The half back line of Síofra Hughes, Lucy McGlynn and Caitlin McGarrigle got through a mountain of work while Caoimhe Keon and Ella Clancy covered every corner of the pitch. Leah O'Brien, Roisín Daly and Sarah Jane Keon played a lot of good direct ball into the forward line. Up front Brídín Maguire was a potent scoring threat and brought in other players well too. Eimear O'Brien and Laoise Kelly showed well up front too. Substitutes Gráinne Maguire, Eilish Gallagher, Sorcha McGonigle, Alana Gallagher, Katie O'Brien, Chloe Connolly and Aideen Walsh all contributed well on their introduction. Under 14 training continues on Tuesdays and Thursdays at Páirc Aoidh Ruadh at 5.45pm.
Under 12 training continues Thursday from 6pm to 7pm and again on Saturday from 10am to 11am.
Indoor training for under 8s [2008s and 2009s] and under 10s [2006s and 2007s] continues this Wednesday from 7pm to 8pm at the Mercy Hall. The cost is €2 and remember to bring a bottle of water. If you have further enquires please contact Gabby on 0872902245 or Louise on 0876388562.
Hurling
Aodh Ruadh sank to a second successive loss in Ulster Táin league Division 2B. MacCumhaill's were the victors in Ballybofey, 3-14 to 1-4 the scoreline. Their next assignment is another away trip, this time to take on Castleblayney next Sunday 10th April.Our minors were up against a strong and highly motivated Carndonagh squad in Father Tierney Park on Thursday last. The Carn lads started brightly and got the first couple of scores of the game. Our younger and lighter team were finding it very hard get into the game and it took nearly 20 minutes for them to get their opening score. Carndonagh were well on top at half time and led 0-4 to 0.2. Aodh Ruadh were rocked by a Carn goal early in the second half which saw them stretch their lead to seven points. This was the wake up call our lads needed. From there till the end of the game they batted ferociously for every ball and began believing in themselves. They were well on top for the remainder of the game and ran out worthy winners 0-13 to 1-5, this was a great game between two very committed teams. The lads deserve great credit for battling away in the game and never giving up and overcoming a five point deficit to turn the game around. Next up for the lads is a difficult trip to Ballybofey this Thursday to take on an unbeaten MacCumhaill's team.
The under 14s had no league game this week, on Sunday they played a challenge game against Drumcliff / Rosses Point in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. We were down a number of players due to other sporting commitments and holidays, but the 12 lads who played gave it their all. They were up against a much stronger team physically, but our lads put in a great first half performance and led at half-time by a point. The efforts of the first half took their toll on the lads in the second half, when the older and physically stronger Sligo team got on top. The lads never gave up and it was only a few late goals which gave the Sligo boys the win. As is often the case you learn more in defeat, and the lads will have learned a lot from this game which should stand to them later in the year. We play Four Masters in the league this week.
On Saturday Donegal under 17s finished their Celtic Challenge Cup campaign with a great victory at home to Armagh. They were convincing winners 0-21 to 0-17. Our three lads on the team were Stephen Anderson, Conal Sweeny and Brian McHenry. All played their part in this significant win.
We are holding our annual Cash for Clothes Collection for the month of April. All unwanted clothing, shoes, handbags and belts will be gratefully accepted. For any information in relation to this fund-raiser please contact Denis Daly 0863269550, Tara Keenaghan 0863331903, John Rooney 0862587793 or John Larkin 0861076883.
Training for all ages continues on Sundays at 12 noon, all welcome especially beginners. Hurls and helmets are provided for training. Come along and enjoy learning the skills of our ancient game in a fun filled environment.
NHL play-off
Croke Park has fixed the Tyrone v Fermanagh NHL Division 3A / 3B Promotion / Relegation play-off for Father Tierney Park this Saturday at 3.30pm. The usual key stewards are asked to report by 2pm. With Aodh Ruadh and Buncrana playing senior and reserve games on Saturday also, access priority to all changing rooms will go to the six competing teams. Team managers with training arrangements on Saturday should note this and adjust their arrangements accordingly.Membership
The main membership drive for this season is now concluded. Any players who register from this point on will be subject to a five day moratorium before they are eligible to play. Adults registered after 31st March will have no vote at the club AGM. Many thanks to all those who paid their membership for the 2016 season. This is a major help in meeting large early season bills such as competition and affiliation fees. Thanks also to all those who helped out in gathering membership.Abbey Centre Bingo
Last week's €400 bingo jackpot was won by Martina Brady of Manorhamilton, checking on just 41 numbers. There was no winner of the spring snowball so next week's snowball prize will be €325 on 46 numbers or less. Bingo as usual at 9pm this Friday at the Abbey Centre. Books priced at just €10.
- 12 April
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Football
Sitting on a two goal lead with 15 minutes left to play, Aodh Ruadh looked to be coasting to the win in their Division 3 clash with Buncrana in Father Tierney Park on Saturday afternoon. However, Erneside talisman Diarmaid McInerney pulled up with an injury and after that the hosts had to ride their luck for their 3-8 to 0-13 win, Buncrana left to curse a slew of squandered opportunities. Aodh Ruadh saw the game out though and were well worth the points over the 60 minutes. Best for the hosts were the irrepressible Diarmaid McInerney, Seamus Kane who was a great outlet up front and the ever menacing David Dolan. Elsewhere it was another sound outing from Michael Ward at corner back while Damien Cleary and Calum O'Halloran were well on top of their men in defence. We have a full report up on aodhruadh.org with pictures to come in the next day or so.Aodh Ruadh reserves picked up their first win of the season at home to Buncrana with the match played at Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. Ballyshannon ran out victors on a comfortable 4-3 to 0-7 scoreline and the reserves enjoyed having a strong squad out, with more subs togged than were able to get on. Mickey Dolan, Kieran Keown and Kerry Ryan added some steel through the spine of the team, while Jason Granaghan and PJ Gillespie linked play up well between the half backs and half forwards. Daniel Warnock and Oisin Kerr can both be happy with their work after they came on in the second half, each being very solid and comfortable on the ball. All in all a very satisfactory start at home to the 2016 campaign. Check out aodhruadh.org for an extended report on the game.
Aodh Ruadh's next opponents will be Downings in Páirc Na nDunaibh on Sunday, 17th April. The Reserve game throws in at 1.30pm, followed by the seniors at 3pm.
The minors got back to winning ways last Wednesday when they defeated Saint Naul's on a scoreline of 1-9 to 0-11. Peter McKenna's men now travel to Donegal town this Wednesday, 20th April for their next fixture in Division 1B, Four Masters the opposition.
The under 14s levelled the score with Four Master last Friday, running out worthy winners after an entertaining and feisty encounter with the Donegal town men in front of a large attendance in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. It was a game where Aodh Ruadh showed all their battling qualities, refusing to take a backward step in the face of a determined Four Masters challenge. There were a lot of good displays up front with Harry Howarth and Shane Brady showing well, while in the central third Eugene Doherty, Cian Barden and Senan Rooney all stood up to the mark. Next up for Ballyshannon in the league is the trip to Dungloe next Monday 18th April. Under 14 training continues on Wednesday at 4.15pm sharp.
Under 12 training continues on Mondays and Fridays from 5.15pm to 6.30pm, in Páirc Aoidh Ruadh.
The under 10s have their first game of the new season when Glencar Manorhamilton are the guests in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh this Saturday. Throw in at 10am and all players to be at the park for 9.30am at the latest.
The under 8s will also have their first competitive outing of the season when they take on Derrygonnelly at 11.30am. All players to be up for 11am.
Under 10, under 8 and under 6 training continues as usual this Friday from 6.30pm to 7.30pm at Páirc Aoidh Ruadh. We will be presenting the results from last week's under 8 skills test at this Friday's training.
There is a child protection course being organised for the this weekend. Places are limited, so anyone interested in taking the course should let Brian Roper know as soon as possible on 0876139065.
Ladies
Well done to our representative on the Donegal senior ladies team, Sarah Patton and the rest of the squad who have finished top of the Ladies NFL Division 2 table unbeaten. They now have an All-Ireland league semi-final in two weeks against Cavan.The under 14s have a challenge game this Wednesday against Drumcliffe / Rosses Point, throw-in at 7pm. We are travelling for this game and we would appreciate if parents / guardians could help with transport for players to the away venue. We will be leaving the park at 5.45pm. There will be no under 14 training this Thursday. There will be training on Saturday at 10.30am.
Under 12 training continues this Thursday from 6pm to 7pm. We will have a challenge game against Grange this Saturday at home, throw in at 10am, all players to be at the park for 9.30am at the latest.
Indoor training for under 8s [2008s and 2009s] and under 10s [2006s and 2007s] continues this Wednesday from 7pm to 8pm at the Mercy Hall. The cost is €2 and remember to bring a bottle of water. If you have further enquires please contact Gabby on 0872902245 or Louise on 0876388562.
Hurling
Aodh Ruadh lost on Sunday in their Ulster Táin League Division 2B clash with Castleblayney in Monaghan on 0-14 to 0-8 scoreline. Next fixture for the seniors is this Sunday, 17th April, in Father Tierney Park at 4pm against Tyrone outfit, Naomh Columcille.Thursday night saw contrasting fortunes for our under 14s and minors. The under 14s were at home to near neighbours Four Masters. The lads continued their rich vein of form and were much too strong for the Donegal town lads. This Thursday the under 14s are at home again this Thursday as they take on Setanta.
The minors travelled to Ballybofey and took on a strong MacCumhaill's team, we just had the bare 15, the majority of whom were under 16. Unfortunately we could not match the physicality of the Ballybofey lads. We have another difficult game ahead this Tuesday away to Saint Eunan's.
Training for all ages continues on Sundays at 12 noon, all welcome especially beginners. Hurls and helmets are provided for training. Come along and enjoy learning the skills of our ancient game in a fun filled environment.
We are holding our annual Cash for Clothes Collection for the month of April. All unwanted clothing, shoes, handbags and belts will be gratefully accepted. For any information in relation to this fund-raiser please contact Denis Daly 0863269550, Tara Keenaghan 0863331903, John Rooney 0862587793 or John Larkin 0861076883.
Recreational football
Recreational football returns to Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh this Saturday at 6.30pm for the warm with the game getting going at 7pm. If you haven't pulled on the boots in a while, it's a great opportunity to get out and active. It's excellent value at just €3 for the session. For more information text or call Alan on 0868052816.Abbey Centre Bingo
Last week's €400 bingo jackpot was won by Breege Gormley of Belleek. There was no winner of the spring snowball so next week's snowball prize will be €350 on 46 numbers or less. Bingo as usual at 9pm this Friday at the Abbey Centre. Books priced at just €10.
- 19 April
-
Football
Aodh Ruadh made it three wins on the trot with a convincing 14 point victory in Downings to remain joint top of Division 3 with a game in hand on fellow table toppers Buncrana. An early David McGurrin goal sent them on their way and they led by five points, 1-8 to 0-6, at half-time. Ryan McKenna scored the opening point of the second half and while Downings stayed in touch briefly, Aodh Ruadh struck for 2-3 to kill the game, Seamus Kane with both of the goals. Eamonn McGrath, Niall Harley, McKenna, McGurrin, Kane, Damian Cleary and Philip Patton all registered points with ten Aodh Ruadh players in all managing to score over the hour. We have a full report from the game up on aodhruadh.org and will have pictures over the course of the week.Aodh Ruadh reserves had to work hard to earn a share of the spoils on a very windy day at Downings. There was very little between the sides at any stage throughout the contest, with the hosts holding a slender one point lead of 0-4 to 0-3 at half time. Dermot Slevin opened the scoring for the visitors with a nicely taken free across the wind, and added a second point a few minutes later. Anthony ‘Waddle’ Coughlin got the visitors third score shortly before the break. Downings started the second half well and stretched their lead to two points before Gary Carty popped over a reply. Downings twice again stretched ahead to two points only to be pegged back each time by two more Slevin frees. The hosts were barely hanging on to their one point lead heading into the final stages, as Aodh Ruadh were having by far the better of the play, but were unable to convert possession into decent scoring chances. That was until Waddle got his second of the match to level the scores with just a few minutes remaining. Best for Aodh Ruadh were Gary Carty and Michael Dolan who were both very solid in defence, whilst Cáelán Drummond had a very good debut at half forward. The Aodh Ruadh team were Carl O’Brien; Chris McCabe, Mickey Dolan, David McLoone; Christopher Goan, Kieran Keown, Ryan Granaghan; Gary Carty (0-1), Aiden Murray; Jason Granaghan, Ronan Drummond, Dermot Slevin (0-4, 3f); Cáelán Drummond, Anthony Coughlin (0-2), JJ Cassidy. Subs: David Dorrian for D McLoone, Brian Dorrian for C McCabe, Gerard Ferguson for K Keown, Ryan Granaghan.
Aodh Ruadh's next opponents will be Naomh Colmcille in Father Tierney Park on Sunday, 24th April. The reserve game throws in at 1.30pm, followed by the seniors at 3pm.
With Naomh Ultan conceding their game, the minors will finally return to competitive action next Monday, 25th April, when they face Four Masters in Donegal town at the early throw-in time of 5.30pm. Victory in this game would see Aodh Ruadh into the Southern semi-final against either Naomh Conaill or Ardara, that game likely to be on Wednesday week.
The under 14s remain joint top of the division one table after their 3-7 to 2-6 victory over Dungloe on Monday evening. The wind was a factor and Aodh Ruadh played against it in the first half as a strong, rugged Dungloe outfit made the most of the elements. They went in trailing by 1-3 to 2-6, Jake Foley on the mark for the homesters' goal. Ballyshannon kept the visitors scoreless in the second half, but it took most of the half for the Ernesiders to eat their way through the Dungloe lead with Aodh Ruadh only getting ahead in the last five minutes. Most of Aodh Ruadh's best displays came in the rearguard, starting with Matt Gillespie between the sticks who was once again magnificent. Full back Kyle Murray was an assured presence as were the half back pairing of Eugene Doherty and Colm McGloin. Up front Cian Rooney delivered the goods in a strong second half showing. Next up for Ballyshannon in the league is the trip to Ardara this Friday 22nd April. That's followed quickly by the visit of Saint Naul's to Father Tierney Park next Monday. Under 14 training continues on Wednesday at 4.15pm sharp.
Under 12 training continues on Mondays and Fridays from 5.15pm to 6.30pm, in Páirc Aoidh Ruadh.
It was a busy morning in the park last Saturday with Bundoran coming for an under 10 blitz, followed by the visit of Derrygonnelly for the under 8s first competitive action of the season. Many thanks to the referees on the day and the parents / guardians who put on such a great spread of grub for all the players afterwards. The results of the first skills test of the under 8 season were presented at last Friday's training and were as follows: 2008 grade. First Corey Sheridan on 114 points; Second Joseph Gibbions on 111 points; and third Garreth Brennan on 100 points. 2009 grade. First Eoghan Gallagher on 111 points; Second Eoghan McCadden on 92 points; and third Shaun McGarrigle on 74 points. 2010 grade. First Manus Conlon on 78 points. Remember, the big prize at the end of the season is for the most improved player, so keep working hard on your skills, especially the areas where you might have lost points in the first test.
Under 10, under 8 and under 6 training continues as usual this Friday from 6.30pm to 7.30pm at Páirc Aoidh Ruadh.
There will be a Bord na nÓg meeting on Wednesday, 20th April, at 8.30pm. All committee members are asked to attend.
Ladies
Realt Ruadh played a league game at home against Four Masters on Sunday and ran out convincing winners on a final scoreline of 2-14 to 1-4. It was great to see this new team taking shape and well done to Teddy, Terence and Paul for their commitment and steadfast encouragement. Training continues on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7pm.The under 14s hosted Saint Naul's on Monday evening and delivered a great performance to run out 4-12 to 2-2 winners. Aodh Ruadh lead by five at the interval and turned the screw in the second half to run out victors on a 16 point margin while holding Mountcharles scoreless in the second 30. The Aodh Ruadh team was Áine Hill; Orla Keon, Alicia Clyne, Leah Travers; Lucy McGlynn, Síofra Hughes, Caitlin McGarrigle; Ella Clancy, Caoimhe Keon; Sarah Jane Keon, Leah O'Brien, Roisín Daly; Aisling Gallagher, Brídín Maguire, Eimear O'Brien. Again the substitutes mad a great impact on their introduction with Sorcha McGonigle, Laoise Kelly, Eva Moore and Eilish Gallagher and contributing well. There is no under 14 training on Tuesday. There will be training on Thursday at 5.45pm with a league match on Saturday 23rd April away to Glenfin at 11am.
The under 12 girls played a challenge match against Grange last Saturday, with 24 girls togging out. We were able to put out two 12 a side teams and all the girls got to play two matches. It was great to see the girls get a run out and put everything they have been learning in training to the test. Best wishes for a speedy recovery to Lucy Barden after her knee injury. Thanks to Grange for the challenge. Training continues this Thursday from 6pm to 7pm and on Saturday from 10am to 11am.
Indoor training for under 8s [2008s and 2009s] and under 10s [2006s and 2007s] continues this Wednesday from 7pm to 8pm at the Mercy Hall. The cost is €2 and remember to bring a bottle of water. If you have further enquires please contact Gabby on 0872902245 or Louise on 0876388562.
Ladies are due to cover the lotto at Centra on Saturday 30th April. Up until now it has always been management and senior players helping out. Now we are looking for parents to help out by taking a slot. So we are asking parents of under 12 and under 14 girls to help. The times are as follows:
10am-11.30am - Under 12 parent
11.30am-1pm - Under 14 parent
1pm-2.30pm - Under 12 parent
2.30pm-4pm - Under 14 parent
Could you please let either the manager of your child's team or Karol Foley or Sarah Patton know if you can help.Hurling
The senior hurlers chalked up the first win of their Ulster Táin Division 2B league campaign against Tyrone outfit, Naomh Columcille in Father Tierney Park on Sunday. Aodh Ruadh delivered their best performance of the year so far to run out winners on a scoreline of 3-11 to 1-7.Our under 14s were well beaten at home on Thursday in the league by Setanta. The Killygordon lads were far hungrier and more up for the battle than our lads. We conceded a couple of early goals and disappointingly the heads dropped and we never recovered. Hopefully the lads learned a few lessons on Thursday and will bounce back against Letterkenny Gaels this Thursday in our last home game of the league.
Our minors had no game last Tuesday against Saint Eunan's as O'Donnell Park was unplayable. This Tuesday we are away to Letterkenny Gaels.
On Friday evening Donegal minor hurlers had a big win over Monaghan in the Ulster Shield semi-final in MacCumhaill Park. Well done to the Aodh Ruadh lads on the panel. Brian McHenry started at full back, Stephen Anderson was in midfield and Conal Sweeny came off the bench before half-time. All the lads did very well and played their part in this great victory. They now play Tyrone in the Ulster Shield final on Friday evening 22nd April, venue to be confirmed.
We are holding our annual Cash for Clothes Collection for the month of April. All unwanted clothing, shoes, handbags and belts will be gratefully accepted. For any information in relation to this fund-raiser please contact Denis Daly 0863269550, Tara Keenaghan 0863331903, John Rooney 0862587793 or John Larkin 0861076883.
Recreational football
Recreational football continues in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh this Saturday at 6.30pm for the warm up with the game getting going at 7pm. If you haven't pulled on the boots in a while, it's a great opportunity to get out and active. It's excellent value at just €3 for the session. For more information text or call Alan on 0868052816.Abbey Centre Bingo
There was no winner of the spring snowball so next week's snowball prize will be €375 on 46 numbers or less. Bingo as usual at 9pm this Friday at the Abbey Centre. Books priced at just €10.
- 26 April
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Club meeting
The monthly club executive meeting takes place this Thursday, 28th April, at 8.30pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. All committee members are asked to attend.Football
Their fourth win on the bounce sees Aodh Ruadh extending their winning run at the start of the season and go clear at the top of the division three table. They lead Naomh Colmcille by 1-8 to 1-2 at half-time with the benefit of a strong following breeze. Ballyshannon edged the second half too, to run out 1-13 to 1-6 victors. Conor Patton had an excellent game in the middle of the park with Niall Harley also soldiering hard too. Niall Murray at wing back and Colm Kelly worked like demons, as did Paddy Gillespie in the first half and Pauric Patton in the second. Up front David Dolan was a bit special with Johnny Gethins and Seamus Kane offering great outlets. A word too for Sticky Ward whose game sense, especially in the final quarter, played a big part in the win. We have a full report from the game up on aodhruadh.org and will have pictures over the course of the week.A date for your diary. The senior footballers will be hosting a fund-raising quiz in Seán Óg's on Friday, 6th May. All support would be greatly appreciated.
The reserve game against Newtowncunningham was postponed.
Aodh Ruadh's next assignment will be the trip to Crampsey Park to take on Urris on Saturday, 30th April. The reserve game throws in at 5.30pm, followed by the seniors at 7pm.
Aodh Ruadh minors booked their place in the regional league semi-finals with a gutsy 2-14 to 1-9 victory over Four Masters in Tirchonaill Park on Monday evening. The Ernesiders faced into a considerable breeze in the first half and fielded minus the talents of Shane McGrath and Oisin Rooney. Nevertheless they set about their business with a will, and after registering the first two points of the game they never looked back. Ballyshannon reached the break three points to the good with a fine goal from Conall Sweeny helping them on their way. Dylan Gallagher had the green flag flying again in the second 30 with a lovely effort as the lads pushed on to secure a hard earned victory against tough opponents. Aodh Ruadh showed great desire and attitude for this clash right across the pitch. The man of the match award was a toss-up between two superb performances. Ronan McMullin, put in a stupendous shift of tenacious never-say-die football in a roving commission, while Nathan Boyle produced a vintage display of acrobatic fielding which was gilded with eight immaculate dead balls, many from on or around the 45 metre mark and into the stiff breeze. Conall Sweeny proved an effective foil to Boyle in midfield while Cáelán Drummond was a great threat up front. The regional semi-final will take place this Wednesday with venue, time and opposition yet to be determined.
The under 14s recorded two good wins over the past week. They were away to Ardara last Friday evening. On a cold and windy evening, the game was tight with both teams working hard for possession. Ballyshannon played against the wind in the first half, but went in at half-time leading 4-5 to 3-4. In the second half the game opened up a little and Ardara hit a purple patch scoring two goals. Our lads steadied themselves and a hit a further 2-3. Best displays in the defence were Matt Gillespie in goals, excellent again, Calum Doherty-Craig, Daire Gallagher and Eugene Doherty worked their socks off. Senan Rooney scored 2-3 from midfield and up front Jake Foley bagged 2-1, supported well by Shane Brady and Harry Howarth. Monday evening saw the team record a convincing 7-10 to 5-6 victory over Saint Naul's to move top of the division one table. Aodh Ruadh led by 3-6 to 0-2 at half time and the bench was emptied in the second half with a number of players making good cases for starting places in future fixtures. Once again Matt Gillespie excelled between the posts, producing some superb stops, while in defence Marty McGarrigle gave one of his best displays of the season. Senan Rooney was unmarkable in midfield while up front Cian Rooney and Colm McGloin were on fire. Next up for the under 14s is the visit of Ardara to Father Tierney Park on Friday, throw in at 6.30pm. Training continues on Wednesday at 4.30pm.
The under 12s travel to MacCumhaill Park on Wednesday 27th April for a challenge match against a strong MacCumhaill side. Thanks to the large numbers playing under 12 football in both clubs we will be fielding three teams to play at the same time, with games throwing in at 6.45pm. Players are asked to meet at the park at 5.20pm and bring €3 for the bus. We expect to be home about 8.45pm. We have committed to fielding 30 players and so ask that all parents notify in advance if their child is available to travel for this trip. We have games on Wednesdays from now on with the league beginning on Wednesday 4th May with an away game to Ardara at 7pm. We are hoping for good numbers of travelling supporters for the boys and parents who are available to drive to this game. Please let Alan or Kerry know how many players you can bring. Under 12 training continues on Mondays and Fridays from 5.15pm to 6.30pm, in Páirc Aoidh Ruadh.
Under 10, under 8 and under 6 training continues as usual this Friday from 6.30pm to 7.30pm at Páirc Aoidh Ruadh.
There will be a Bord na nÓg meeting on Wednesday, 27th April, at 8.30pm. All committee members are asked to attend.
Ladies
Realt Ruadh had a free weekend, but are playing their next game in Bundoran this Sunday at 11am against Saint Naul's. Good luck to the girls in that one. Also best of luck to Sarah Patton and the Donegal team in the division two final in Parnell Park on Saturday. Throw in is at 5.30pm with this game the curtain raiser for the division one decider between Cork and Mayo.The under 14 girls travel to take Glenfin on Tuesday, 26th April. Players leave the park at 5.10pm and we would greatly appreciate if any parents who plan to drive could help with transport for players. Training continues on Thursday at 5.45pm.
Under 12 training continues this Thursday from 6pm to 7pm. We are due to get the competitive season underway next Tuesday against Kilcar. Further details across the course of the week
The under 8s and under 10s will have their last indoor training session this Wednesday and will be moving outdoors to Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh (Munday's) on Monday 9th May from 6-7pm.
This year's Duck Race will take place on Saturday 28th May at 3pm. So mark the date in your calendar as it's always an entertaining afternoon.
Ladies are due to cover the lotto at Centra on Saturday 7th May. Up until now it has always been management and senior players helping out. Now we are looking for parents to help out by taking a slot. So we are asking parents of under 12 and under 14 girls to help. The times are as follows:
10am-11.30am - Under 12 parent
11.30am-1pm - Under 14 parent
1pm-2.30pm - Under 12 parent
2.30pm-4pm - Under 14 parent
Could you please let either the manager of your child's team or Karol Foley or Sarah Patton know if you can help.Hurling
On Tuesday of last week the minors travelled to Letterkenny to take on Letterkenny Gaels. It was a competitive contest between two evenly matched teams. For whatever reason Aodh Ruadh were very nervous and never really got going in this game. Despite not playing well the lads managed to claim a draw, the sides finishing 2-8 apiece. The lads deserve great credit for ensuring we are fielding for all our games with such a young panel. They have a difficult game this Thursday in Father Tierney Park against an exceptional Buncrana team who are the current Ulster Minor Shield champions.On Thursday our under 14s got back to winning ways at home to Letterkenny Gaels. With sickness and injuries we only had 12 players available, but these 12 were a credit to the club with their work rate on the night. They ran out convincing winners over the Letterkenny lads. They have no game this week.
On Friday night the Donegal minor hurlers won the Ulster minor shield with a convincing 3-14 to 3-9 win over Tyrone in Celtic Park, Derry. They now go into the Ulster minor championship where they are up against Armagh. We were delighted to have three lads on the panel. Brian Mc Henry was corner back and did well, holding his man scoreless. Stephen Anderson got through an amount of work in midfield and got a lovely point in the second half. Meanwhile Conall Sweeny was an unused sub. It's great for the club to have the three lads on the squad and playing hurling at this level.
Next Monday sees us host the annual Alan Ryan / Seamus Grimes tournament. This year it is being held for under 14s. The tournament has been going since 1998 to honour two former great Aodh Ruadh hurlers and their families. Again this year clubs from far and wide are coming to the tournament with the following clubs confirming their participation: Tuam (Galway), Easkey (Sligo), Na Magha (Derry), Naomh Eoin (Sligo), Keady (Armagh), Drumcliffe (Sligo), Buncrana (Donegal) and ourselves. Play gets underway at 10.30am and all are welcome for what is sure to be a great day of hurling.
We are holding our annual Cash for Clothes Collection for the month of April. All unwanted clothing, shoes, handbags and belts will be gratefully accepted. For any information in relation to this fund-raiser please contact Denis Daly 0863269550, Tara Keenaghan 0863331903, John Rooney 0862587793 or John Larkin 0861076883.
Recreational football
Recreational football is back in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh this Saturday at 6.30pm for the warm up with the game getting going at 7pm. It's excellent value at just €3 for the session. For more information text or call Alan on 0868052816.Abbey Centre Bingo
Last week's €400 bingo jackpot was won by Mary McMahon, Donegal Road. There was no winner of the snowball prize, so it now stands at €400 on 46 numbers or less. It's Big Bingo time again with the April big bingo this Friday at 9pm at the Abbey Centre, with a massive €3,000 prize fund including the €1,000 jackpot game. Books priced at €15/€8, or get the book and a half deal for €20.Old Times
Ballyshannon Drama Society presents the Harold Pinter play, Old Times, in the Abbey Centre on Saturday, April 30th. This is a gala night presentation by the All-Ireland finalists and will be preceded by music, wine and finger food. Curtain up at 8.15pm, admission is €15.