Club Notes Archive - 2016
Notes navigaion
Click on a year to select a month.
JULY
- 5 July
-
Football
Congratulations to Peter Boyle and his senior county colleagues on booking their place in the Ulster final for the sixth year in succession, an incredible feat.Aodh Ruadh are down to play Buncrana this weekend, but senior hurling championship is also down for this weekend with Aodh Ruadh also facing Buncrana. With the under 21 All-Ireland C Hurling Championship also in the mix we didn't have definitive word on fixture arrangements for the weekend.
The Aodh Ruadh under 21s made light of the long trip to Cloughaneely to come away with an impressive 3-14 to 0-4 first round victory.
The under 8s have a game this Wednesday in Donegal town. We travel to take on Four Masters with the games getting underway at 6.30pm. All players are to be at Tir Chonaill Park in Donegal town for 6pm. Text John on 0876431805 should your child need a lift.
Under 10 and under 8 training continues this Friday from 6.30pm to 7.30pm at Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh.
A referee training course has been fixed for Friday 8th July. The course lasts three hours from 7pm to 10pm. The Southern Board are having difficulties with the shortage of referees so we urge to club members to consider attending this course.
The underage footballers are busy filling their Euroshot Challenge cards and honing their shooting as the days count down to the big event on Sunday July 10th. Please support generously. There will be a short meeting on Wednesday evening at 8.30 pm to finalise the details for the Euro Shot Challenge.
Ladies
The minor girls get their season under way against Saint Naul's on Tuesday, 5th July. The game throws in at Father Tierney Park at 7pm.Under 14 girls training continues on Tuesday evening at 5.45pm. Aodh Ruadh are playing Grange in Ballyshannon on Wednesday at 6pm. Players are to be at the dressing rooms for 5.10pm. The under 14 county semi-final has been fixed for Thursday 14th July.
Under 12 girls training continues this Thursday 6pm. We have a challenge against Grange on Saturday at 1pm. We will be meeting at the Park at 11.50pm to arrange lifts for any players who need them and leaving at 12 noon.
Under 8 and under 10 training continues at Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh on Mondays from 6-7pm.
Hurling
Aodh Ruadh took on an under-strength Saint Eunan's side on Sunday and ran out 2-4 to 1-21 winners in O'Donnell Park. Ballyshannon started the game on an unpromising note, coughing up two soft goals. However from there the visitors took a grip on the game and went in at the break leading by two points. Damian Cleary began to win his duel with Sean McVeigh and that combined with an excellent all-round performance in the second half saw the Ernesiders finish deserved winners, their third victory of the campaign. The Ballyshannon goal came with five minutes to play from the stick of Ryan O'Brien to seal the victory. Colm Kelly was in fine form as was fellow half forward Conor McNeely. Paul Sheridan scored about a dozen points and was immaculate from frees. Attention turns to championship this weekend with Buncrana set to the supply opposition. No firm word on fixture details was available at the time of sending.Well done to Donegal who saw off the challenge of Tyrone in Letterkenny last Saturday in the All-Ireland C Hurling Championship on a scoreline of 2-10 to 1-7. Aodh Ruadh's Matt Ahern, Tommy Gillespie, Ciaran Rami and Eddie Lynch Jr all started and played important roles in the victory, while Stephen Connolly was a sub. The semi-final is against Louth and takes place this Saturday at 2pm with the venue still to be confirmed.
The under 14 season came to a disappointing end on Tuesday last as we met Dungloe / Gaoth Dobhair in the B championship final in Donegal Town. Our lads never got into this game at all and we appeared to be intimidated by the physically stronger Gaeltacht amalgamation. With only a handful of lads prepared to put in the required effort, we were well beaten in the end. It was a disappointing end to the season. There were some positives, most noticeably qualifying for the National Féile na nGael finals, but going forward this young squad is going to have to up its work rate and put far more effort into practising the basic skills of hurling.
The under 16s took on Four Masters in round two of the league on Thursday evening. Holidays and injuries again meant we only had the bare 11 players, in difficult conditions the lads gave it everything they had and showed great character. We were only denied a great victory by a last minute goal which left the full time score Four Masters 3-13 Aodh Ruadh 4-8. Lack of concentration cost this young squad victory and hopefully they will learn from this defeat.
Many thanks to the parents who drove the lads to Donegal Town both Tuesday and Thursday evenings.
On Saturday our under 8s and under 10s hosted Erne Gaels for a couple of games and all players had a very enjoyable evening of hurling.
On Thursday our minors are in action against Setanta in the B Championship semi-final in Crossroads.
Training as normal at 12 noon on Sunday for all age groups.
Aodh Ruadh Summer Camp
The 25th Aodh Ruadh summer camp is now under way with week one currently in progress. Week two runs from Monday 11th to Friday 15th July. Each week the camp will cater for all ages from 6 to 14, boys and girls. Activities include skills training, fun and games, football, camogie, rounders, hurling and swimming. Applicants should bring a packed lunch as no one will be allowed to leave the camp during the day. The camp runs from 10am to 3pm. Cost per week. One child €70; Two children €120; Three children €170; Four children €200. For further information contact Sylvester Maguire 086-0532495.
- 12 July
-
Football
Aodh Ruadh's incredible winning run stretching right back to the start of the season came to an end at Scarvey on Saturday evening. Ballyshannon held the initiative in the first half, but Buncrana stayed in touch and the sides went in level at six points apiece at the turnover. Kevin Treacy gave the hosts a one goal advantage with eight minutes left to play, before points from Oisin O'Flaherty and Oran Doherty gave Ballyshannon a real mountain to climb. A point from Seamus Kane gave the Ernesiders some slim hope, but that was rapidly dashed when a goal from Garvan Friel on the stroke of full time made it 1-12 to 0-8. Aodh Ruadh added late points from Seamus Kane and Pauric Patton, but when the whistle went Buncrana were deserved winners. We have a full match report on aodhruadh.org with pictures to come later in the week.The reserves had a real game to forget as they were on the receiving end of a 5-20 to 1-2 thumping in Buncrana. The latest in a series of hit and miss results for this mercurial outfit. We have pictures from the game up on aodhruadh.org.
No senior league fixtures scheduled this weekend with Ulster Final taking centre stage. We wish the very best of luck to Peter Boyle and his senior county colleagues and to our representatives on the minor squad, Nathan Boyle, Shane McGrath and Oisin Rooney, plus Mick McGrath in the back room team as they bid to bring Ulster honours back to the county on Sunday.
The under 16s were in league action against Naomh Conaill on Monday evening, but came up second best as Glenties ran out 6-16 to 2-6 winners on their home turf. Next up for the under 16s is the visit of Kilcar to Father Tierney Park this Friday, throw-in at 7.30pm.
The under 14 boys were away on championship duty on Wednesday evening playing Saint Naul's down in Mountcharles. A wet dirty evening and a pitch in poor condition made for a slow start to the match with both teams trading points until Shane Brady received a ball on the edge of the square, turned and was hauled down and awarded a penalty kick. Mark McGlynn stood up and dispatched same to the Saint Naul's net leaving Aodh Ruadh going in at half time 1-3 to 0-3 up. The lads started the second half brightly and tapped over a few more points to push out their lead, but the Saint Naul's lads did not lie down and kicked three points in a row to close the gap. Cian Barden got on the end of a long ball into the square and finished to the net, to settle the nerves for the Aodh Ruadh boys. Aodh Ruadh kicked on from here scoring three more goals from Harry Howarth, Nathan Owens Kelly and Eugene Doherty. Matt Gillespie had another fine game between the sticks while our defenders closed up shop with Kyle Murray and Mark McGlynn dominating the spine of the defence, leaving Saint Naul's shooting from distance. In midfield a new pairing of Eugene Doherty and Nathan Owens Kelly made sure we won more than our fair share of possession and up front all forwards worked hard with Shane Brady acting as a great target man on the edge of the square. The full squad was Matt Gillespie, Daire Gallagher, Kyle Murray, Colm McGloin, Daire Warren Gallagher, Mark McGlynn, Calum Doherty-Craig, Eugene Doherty, Nathan Owens-Kelly, Cian Rooney, Cian Barden, Harry Howarth, Jake Foley, Shane Brady, Kyle McCaffrey, Mitch McLaughlin, Frankie McGinley and Declan Breslin. Final score in this first leg tie was 5-5 to 0-8. Under 14 training continues on Mondays and Fridays at 5pm. The return leg of championship takes place in Father Tierney Park this Wednesday 13th July at 7.30pm. Come on out and cheer the lads on as they bid to book their place in the next round.
The under 12s had a great day at the County Finals day on Saturday and have another exciting weekend coming up when they face Dungloe this Saturday 16th in the Divisional Final. The County Finals day saw Aodh Ruadh paired against the Northern Divisional Champions, Termon, in the semi-finals with the Reserves up first. In what was really a fantastic game of football the Aodh Ruadh boys saved their best show for last and produced their performance of the year. It would be wrong to list names of the best players for the reserves because it simply wasn't that kind of game, we needed to be strong all over and from first to last every player gave it all. Termon are a strong side who punished our mistakes, but the Reserves had the strength of character to come back at them from five points down in the second half to win it by a point and make it through to the final. The early signs in the senior semi-final against Termon pointed towards a similar type of battle, but Termon had a more dogged nature and when push came to shove this gave them the edge. We allowed them to take advantage of a few weaknesses in our game and they undeniably deserved their win. The seniors had to cope with the bitter disappointment of losing without giving their best and hopefully this will be a timely lesson for the divisional final on Saturday. The seniors then went forward into a third place play-off against Dungloe which didn't have the same fizz as we can expect on Saturday. The reserve final was against MacCumhaill's and the boys were still high on their semi-final performance. Their confidence was brimming and adrenalin suppressed exhaustion as they played right to the final whistle. Sean MacCumhaill's put up a brave fight scoring 2-5 in the end but Aodh Ruadh romped home with 5-6 to set off scenes of joyous celebration on the county ground. The victory was all the sweeter because of the large number of parents and families who came to support the boys and although it's a bit of a trek to our Divisional Final in Dungloe this Saturday it will undoubtedly spur on the team to have as much support as they can. We will meet in the park at 10am on Saturday, training Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 5.15pm.
The under 8s had a very enjoyable challenge against Four Masters last Wednesday. Many thanks to our hosts on the evening who ran things off to their usual high standard. It was great to finally get our first real quality game of the season. The Aodh Ruadh team which travelled and put in a great performance were: Gareth Brennan, Patrick Clarke, Manus Conlon, Finn Doogan, Antoin Duffy, Eoghan Gallagher, James Gallagher, Joseph Gibbions, Fionn Hartin, Tomás Keown, Sean O'Neill, Sean Maguire, Eoghan McCadden, Oisín McCadden, Darragh McCready, Shaun McGarrigle, Harry McGowan, Jayden McGrath-Clyne, Emily McNamee, Éabha Rogers, Max Roper and Corey Sheridan. We are actively seeking further under 8 challenges and will also be running our second skills test of the season on Friday week.
Under 10 and under 8 training continues this Friday from 6.30pm to 7.30pm at Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh.
Bord na nOg would like to thank all the players who took part in the Euro Shot Challenge on Sunday. We would also like to say thank you to parents and all who supported this fund-raising event. It was a very tight competition with some excellent point taking, especially from our younger age groups. The under 8 top scorer was Jayden McGrath-Clyne. The under 10 top scorer was Finn Coady. The under 12 top scorer was JJ Doran. The under 14 top scorer was Daire Warren. The under 16 top scorer was Evan McTernan. The under 18 top scorer was Conal Sweeny. The overall top scorer was Jayden McGrath-Clyne and the overall winning team on a score of 292 points was the under 10 team. Aisling Gallagher was the winner of the two Ulster Final tickets.
There will be a Bord na nÓg meeting on Wednesday, 20th July, at 9pm. All committee members are asked to attend.
Ladies
Realt Ruadh came out just on the wrong side of their championship clash with Gaoth Dobhair on a scoreline of 3-7 to 4-8 in Ballyshannon on Sunday. The visitors got off to the perfect start with a goal, but Realt Ruadh hit back with a great answering score. From the kick out Sarah Patton carried the ball up the pitch before laying off to Roisín McGloin who hit the back of the net. From there it was tit for tat, with Meave Liston picking off scores for the Red Stars, but Gaoth Dobhair just about having the better of exchanges to go in at the break leading by 2-2 to 2-3. The hosts took the lead early in the second half with a goal from Danika Doherty. Gaoth Dobhair pulled back a point, but Meave Liston struck another two points in what was to be Realt Ruadh's best spell of the game. The visitors responded well though and landed 2-2, before Sarah Patton and Liston were next able to register again. Sarah Patton got Realt Ruadh's last point with six minutes remaining, but Gaoth Dobhair finished strong with three points to secure the result. The team was as follows: Niamh Toolan; Lorna Matthews, Sarah Gallagher, Cliodhna Kerr; Hannah Doherty, Tara Khan, Shelly Loughlin; Sarah Patton (0-1), Tanya O'Shea; Anna Rafferty, Meave Liston (0-5), Kerrie McGloin (1-0); Katie Gallagher, Roisín McGloin (1-0), Danika Doherty (1-0). Subs: Rachel McGee for Roisín McGloin; Caroline Warnock for Kerrie McGloin; Roisín McGloin for Shelly Loughlin (inj); Fiona Kane for Lorna Matthews. We wish Shelly Loughlin a rapid recovery from the injury she sustained midway through the second half.The minor girls got their season under way against Saint Naul's last Tuesday, 5th July. We have pictures from the game up on aodhruadh.org.
Under 14 girls training takes place on Tuesday evening at 5.45pm. The girls had a run out against Grange last Wednesday and we have pictures from that challenge up on aodhruadh.org. The under 14 girls county semi-final opposition has finally been confirmed with Saint Eunan's winning through against Downings. Aodh Ruadh will play Saint Eunan's this Thursday in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh at 7pm. This is a big game for the girls so we'd appreciate a large and vocal Ballyshannon support to come and cheer the Shamettes on.
The under 12 girls finals day will take place this Saturday at St Eunan's, Letterkenny. Games start at 1pm and are projected to end 3.30pm. Dungloe, Buncrana, Urris and St Eunan's will also competing. We will meet at the Park at 10.50am and depart 11am. Parents / guardians are asked to let team management know on 0876431805 if their child is able to attend and if they will need a lift on Saturday. The last training session before the final takes place this Tuesday 12 July in Father Tierney Park at 8.30pm. This will be light session with under 14 semi-final on Thursday.
The under 10s have been invited to play Four Masters in Donegal Town on Wednesday, 13th July, at 5.30pm. The team are meeting at the Park at 4.45pm. Under 8 and under 10 training continues at Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh on Mondays from 6-7pm.
Hurling
There was Senior Hurling Championship first round action on Sunday afternoon in Scarvey. A complacent Aodh Ruadh outfit were to rue an awful first half performance which saw them going in trailing the hosts 0-9 to 0-2 at half-time. The Ernesiders upped it somewhat to win the second half, but the damage had been done by a young Buncrana outfit which made every scoring opportunity count. The final scoreline was 0-14 to 0-8 and leaves Aodh Ruadh needing a win this Saturday when they entertain Setanta in Father Tierney Park at 7.30pm. With this being a rare home game for the seniors we'd appreciate a big Ballyshannon support in the Park.The minors were back in action last Thursday against Setanta in the Championship semi-final. The game was played in the Cross and the home team were well up for this game. We were slow getting into the game and took wrong options on most occasions. Scores were hard to come by for both teams. Aodh Ruadh were reduced to 14 men midway through the first half. At the end of a scrappy first half the score was 1-4 to 1-3 in favour of the home team. We were never able to get to grips with the pace of this game and the intensity of the Setanta lads. Scores were traded throughout the second half and we equalised with a couple of minutes to go to leave the final score Setanta 1-10 Aodh Ruadh 1-10. The replay takes place this Thursday at home, throw-in 7pm, it's hoped that the lads will show a big improvement if not their season will be coming to an end.
The under 12s continued their rich vein of form with a comprehensive win over a young MacCumhaill's team at home on Thursday. On Sunday morning they made the long trip to Dungannon to take part in a blitz. They were up against Swatragh from Derry in the opening game and lost narrowly. In the second game they were up against the home team, Eoghan Ruadh. Although well beaten, the lads learned a lot from this game. Many thanks to the parents who drove the lads to the blitz. The under 12s are away to Saint Eunan's this Thursday.
Congratulations and well done to under 12 hurler Ryan Keenaghan who represented Creevy NS at the INTO exhibition game at half-time in the Ulster Hurling Final between Antrim and Armagh in Owenbeg on Sunday. Ryan was on the winning Antrim team and acquitted himself very well.
The Peter O'Keefe under 16 Ulster / Connacht Inter-County Tournament takes place this Saturday, this tournament in existence since 2011, organised by Ulster GAA supported by Aodh Ruadh Juvenile Hurling Committee, is now well established on the programme of underage inter county blitzes. Tyrone, Louth, Sligo, Roscommon, Mayo and Donegal have committed to taking part on the day, it promises to be great day of hurling to honour the memory of one of our former members, the late Peter O'Keefe RIP, who was a tireless worker for underage hurling in Donegal and Ulster. The action gets underway at 11am. All are welcome to what should be a great tournament.
Training as normal at 12 noon on Sunday for all age groups.
Fixtures this Wednesday
We have two official fixtures on Wednesday 13th July. The under 14 Championship game will take place in Father Tierney Park. Across the road in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh Derry will play Leitrim in an under 16 Ladies All-Ireland semi-final, with a 7pm throw-in. The Aodh Ruadh senior hurlers will train on the top field at Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh, commencing at 7.45pm. Other training activities must work around these arrangements. The School field, as always, is available. The Aodh Ruadh minor championship fixture flagged in yesterday's notes for Wednesday will not take place.Darts Fund-raiser
Thanks to Maurice McLaughlin who ran a successful darts fund-raiser for the club recently which has returned over €1,000. Some returns are awaited from teams and should be given to David McLoone straight away. These funds will contribute to the extensive programme of upgrading and maintenance of our pitches and buildings which is currently underway. The Park / Development Committee has received approval for a new Community Employment Scheme which will roll-over from mid-October employing 25 people from the general area. A small number of vacancies may be available. Contact Tom Daly for further information. We are delighted that Stephen McGurrin has joined in a youth coaching role and has commenced his involvement via the Summer Camp and will contribute to our schools links in the autumn.Abbey Centre Bingo
Last week's €400 bingo jackpot was won by Mary McMahon, Donegal Road. There was no winner of the summer 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.Play Lotto
The club lotto, current jackpot €5,400, has never been easier to play. Tickets are now available in the following outlets: Seán Óg's, The Market House, Dicey Reilly's, The Limit, Pat's Bar, The Bridgend, Owen Roe's, Fin McCools, The Lantern, McGinleys, Pearse O'Neill's, McCosker's Centra and Kernans Spar and at the weekly and weekly bingo in the Abbey Centre. If not in, you can't win!
- 19 July
-
Football
It was a great week for the club in many areas, but pride of place has to go to Nathan Boyle, Shane McGrath and Oisin Rooney, plus Mick McGrath in the back room team on claiming the Ulster minor title. Nathan Boyle started and grabbed a crucial goal, while Shane McGrath came on early in the second half and played a big part as Donegal earned a more comfortable win than the scoreline 2-10 to 1-11 final scoreline suggested. Injury interrupted Oisin Rooney's participation in the panel, but it is great for the club to have had such strong representation on the championship winning squad. Fortune didn't smile on Peter Boyle and his senior county colleagues, but life goes on for them and they have two weeks to lick their wounds before facing the challenge of Cork with the minors again providing the curtain raiser for that Croke Park clash on Saturday 30th July.In the interim Aodh Ruadh are scheduled to host Downings this Sunday 24th July when Division 3 league action returns to Father Tierney Park. The reserves get the action under way at 1.30pm with the seniors throwing in at 3pm.
Last Wednesday saw the Aodh Ruadh under 14s earn their place in the Southern Divisional final with a second leg victory over Saint Naul's in Father Tierney Park. Trailing at half-time, the boys battled hard in the second half winning by three points on a final scoreline of 4-6 to 2-9 to set up a final meeting with Ardara. The Divisional Final took place on Monday evening in Tir Chonaill Park, but Ardara proved that bit stronger on the day, getting to the break with a 2-8 to 1-2 cushion and extending that over the course of the second half to run out 4-11 to 2-3 victors. We have pictures from the Saint Naul's game up on aodhruadh.org.
Aodh Ruadh under 12s played a big part in making it a weekend to remember for the club as they claimed the Southern Divisional title after a tightly fought game against Dungloe on their home turf. Despite the distance Ballyshannon supporters travelled en masse and probably out-numbered the home supporters pitch-side in Dungloe. Some 31 players made the journey and despite the difficulty of only playing 11-a-side all boys shared game-time and got a good run out. The reserves victory last week in the county finals tournament is a testament to their achievement this year. The development of skill levels and teamwork among this group is fantastic. They had a strong first half performance and survived a late resurgence by An Clochán Liath to claim a 2-8 to 4-5 draw with points count as two scores.
Dungloe would have fancied their chances in the senior match having beaten our boys twice this year already, but a more disciplined and determined performance by Ballyshannon on Saturday caught the hosts off guard. Aodh Ruadh were behind at half-time 1-3 to 0-4 but their determination - evident in a diving block by Eoghan Kelly and well taken point by Damian Weber, indicated there was enough fight in the dog to take this game to the wire. An early second half goal by Ryan Daly lifted the spirits, but Dungloe were knocking the two pointers over the bar and straining the tension for the Aodh Ruadh support. Captain Ryan Keenaghan, suffering from travel sickness, had to be withdrawn but quickly returned to the field and playing up front hammered two goals into the Dungloe net wthin a few minutes of each other. Darragh Flood-Dolan playing at full back marshaled the defence expertly and both Shane Delahunty and Eoghan Kelly read the game astutely with vital interceptions and turnovers. Points by Aaron Neilan and Eoghan Kelly settled the nerves. Both teams pushed hard in the dying minutes but the momentum was with Aodh Ruadh. Heroics in goals by Aaron Cullen and Ryan Daly's final point left us on the right side of a nail-biting conclusion. The final score was 3-7 to 2-8 (23 to 22). Cue the celebrations - the joy of winning - Champions. A massive shout out is due to the parents and families whose presence in Dungloe was a huge boost to the players and without whom there would have been none of the craic of parading the cup around the town on our arrival home. The under 12 panel who secured the honours were Aaron Cullen, Darragh Flood-Dolan, Pauric Daly, Shane Delahunty, Eoghan Kelly, Aaron Neilan, Ryan Keenaghan, Séimí Campbell, Jack Gallagher, Damian Weber, Ryan Daly, Cian McKenna, Troy Killilea, Oisín Daly, Gerry Warren, David Roper, JJ Doran, Aidan Sweeny, James Gallagher, Drew Ryan, Aonghus Sweeny, Kensie Lee Ayers, Lorc Mag Fhionnghaile, James McGinley, Cillian Meehan, Robbie Murphy, Fionn Gallagher, Shane McGloin, Jack Lyons, Michael Doogan, Oisín McGlinchey and Cian Hunter.Under 10 and under 8 training continues this Friday from 6.30pm to 7.30pm at Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. The main focus of under 8 training this week will be the second skills test of the year, so make sure you are practising your pick up, soloing, kicking and shooting off both feet, as well as your hand passing off both hands. We need a parent / guardian to give a hand marking each station, so please feel free to put yourself forward. Don't worry, it's all very straightforward and full training will be given! There are three skills test in the year and players need to have completed at least two to be eligible for the end of season skills prizes. The last test will take place at the end of September or start of October.
There will be a Bord na nÓg meeting this Wednesday, 20th July, at 9pm. All committee members are asked to attend.
Ladies
Realt Ruadh travelled to Gaoth Dobhair for the second leg of the intermediate championship going into the game with a four point deficit after last week's loss. The visitors had the benefit of the wind in the first half, but it was first blood to Gaoth Dobhair who rifled over the first two points of the game. Realt Ruadh finally got off the mark with a Rachel McGee point as the tie moved into the second quarter. Tara Khan leveled matters, before the Red Stars won the kick out and Hannah Doherty swept over the lead point. Realt Ruadh won the next kick out too and this saw Tara Khan finishing to the net. Points from Cáit Gillespie, Elaine Dorrian, Meave Liston and Sarah Patton helped the south Donegal outfit to a 0-2 to 1-7 interval lead. At the start of the second half the girls knew that working against the wind was going to be tough but they dug deep with Meave Liston, Tara Khan and Hannah Doherty getting through a lot of leg work. Tanya O'Shea and Danika Doherty felt the brunt of a very physical game. With a lot of stoppages the game seemed to go on forever, but Realt Ruadh held on to progress to the semi-finals on a scoreline of 6-8 to 3-5. Realt Ruadh now face Buncrana in the county semi-final with date, time and venue to be confirmed. The team which fielded in Gaoth Dobhair was as follows: Orlaith Gillespie; Lauren O'Moore, Sarah Gallagher, Shelly Loughlin; Hannah Doherty (0-1), Meave Liston (0-1), Roise Keon; Megan McGee, Sarah Patton (1-1); Danika Doherty, Tara Khan (2-2), Cáit Gillespie (2-1); Rachel McGee (0-1), Elaine Dorrian (1-2), Tanya O'Shea. Subs: Roisin McGloin for Tanya O'Shea (inj); Mary Flora Scott for Tara Khan.Aodh Ruadh under 14 girls bowed out of the championship on Thursday evening after a valiant effort against a very strong Saint Eunan's side. Aodh Ruadh matched the visitors in the first half thanks to the hard running of midfielders Caoimhe Keon and Ella Clancy and good finishing from the inside forwards. However the effort exerted in the first half took its toll and Saint Eunan's began to pull away from the home side early in the second half and ran out deserved winners. We have some pictures from the game up on aodhruadh.org.
The under 12s completed a remarkable competitive season in style at O'Donnell Park last Saturday. The girls took on Buncrana, Dungloe and Saint Eunan's in the division 1 finals blitz at the Letterkenny venue having come top after five games in the south. Ballyshannon were without Emily and Lauren McHugh, Cora Rooney, Lucy Barden and Fodhla Sheerin who all played significant roles in getting the Ernesiders a place in the top graded blitz. Aodh Ruadh travelled with a panel of 22 with every player getting at least a half of football. The wind was a factor on the day with all sides having to work hard against it. First up for the Shamettes were Buncrana. The Inishowen girls, playing with just the bare nine made a real go of it and had bagged a couple of goals by the break to make it nervy enough. Katie O'Brien rose to the challenge though and her 2-2 combined with 1-2 from Emer O'Brien helped Aodh Ruadh to a first win. Next up were Dungloe who had lost their opener to the hosts, Saint Eunan's. This proved the hardest fought game of the blitz with the Rosses girls showing real team spirit to go with a good sprinkling of talent. Aodh Ruadh played against the wind in the first half and trailed by two goals at the turnover, not unbridgeable with the aid of the breeze. Dungloe played their hand well though and it took some exceptional scoring from Lucy McGlynn (2-2) and Aoibhínn McGarrigle (1-1) in that second period, not to mention some gritty defending from the likes of Grainne Maguire to earn a draw on a scoreline of 3-5 to 4-2. There was huge evidence of the Ballyshannon girls commitment in that game when Hannah Gallagher and Cara Davit both shipped heavy injuries in their determination to win the ball. With Saint Eunan's two wins from two that left the game between Aodh Ruadh and the Letterkenny girls effectively the decisive game of the blitz. Eunan's needed a win or a draw, while only a win would do for the Shamettes. This turned out to be the girls best display of the day. Facing into the breeze, Aodh Ruadh delivered a power-packed first half of football which the hosts simply couldn't contain. Aoibhínn McGarrigle was in explosive form and had bagged two goals before her bravery saw her having to leave the fray with an injured foot. The indefatigable Emer O'Brien showed the exactly what she was all about in this game and capped a phenomenal blitz with a first half 1-1 against Eunan's. Ãine Hill created lots of problems and her point left it Aodh Ruadh 3-2 to 0-0 at the turnover. The second half saw the Ernesiders peppering the Eunan's posts, but with the backing wind proving tricky to judge they could only add a beautifully taken effort from Clodagh O'Connor to their first half tally to leave the final score 3-3 to 0-0 and Aodh Ruadh county champions.
When the result was confirmed it set off huge jubilation. The presentation commenced with Greg Harkin commending all the teams on the day's football before presenting captain Lucy McGlynn with the county trophy. Lucy hoisted the trophy to a rapturous reception before paying tribute to the coaches, parents and opposition on the day. There was a poignant moment in the dressing rooms afterwards as we made a presentation to, Megan Kane, who had played her last game for Aodh Ruadh, before heading off to Cork. But doubtless she'll never forget the last day she pulled on the white and green. Great credit has to go to Saint Eunan's who organised the blitz to the highest standard. All ran smoothly on the day and there was a great spread of grub in the club house afterwards which was very welcome after the hard day's football. Aodh Ruadh extend their gratitude to Greg, Agnes and all their helpers who looked after us on the day. Thanks are due too to our own Shane Toolan who represented our club with distinction as referee on the big day. It was great to be able to say we did our part on the officiating front and we're grateful to Shane for stepping up. After that it was back to Ballyshannon where Thomas O'Brien lead off the convoy around the town which was met with a great reception. The Aodh Ruadh Ladies Board made a well received contribution for some celebratory snacks at Father Tierney Park where we also took a special team shot to mark this achievement and bring the curtain down on a never to be forgotten day. Of course we have to thank the parents / guardians of this great bunch of players for their help and support all year, not least with the transport to the game on Saturday. We mentioned the some of the scorers in the brief match reports, but this was honestly a 22 player performance on the day and a 27 player achievement over the course of the season. The panel who played their hearts out on the day for Aodh Ruadh were Ciara Caldwell, Cara Davitt, Evelyn Rose Gallagher, Hannah Gallagher, Lucy Gallagher, Niamh Gallagher, Ciara Gillespie, Ãine Hill, Niamh Hughes, Caoimhe Hughes-O'Brien, Megan Kane, Annie Keon, Grainne Maguire, Rhiana Masterson-Burrows, Aoibhínn McGarrigle, Kaitlyn McGarrigle, Lucy McGlynn, Emer O'Brien, Katie O'Brien, Clodagh O'Connor, Shauna O'Mahoney and Rachel Patton. Important also to salute the contribution made by past coaches like Clare Flood and Paddy Kelly in helping to develop this great bunch of players.The under 10s had their first blitz of the season in Donegal town last Wednesday and gave a great account of themselves against a competitive Four Masters outfit. The Ballyshannon girls played some great football. The panel who travelled to Tir Chonaill Park were Aimee Roper, Alicia McGowan, Ava Doherty, Ava Duncan, Cádhla Dolan, Cameron Gallagher, Ciara Larkin, Dairín Sweeny, Jessica O'Mahoney, Katelyn Matthews, Lauren Foy, Maura O'Sullivan, Michala McGavigan, Nessa Mitchell, Orla Gallagher, Raegan Fitzpatrick, Roise Conlon, Sadhbh Hughes and Tara Gallagher. Many thanks to Four Masters for a well-organised and enjoyable challenge. We have some pictures from the blitz up on aodhruadh.org. Under 8 and under 10 training continues at Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh on Mondays from 6-7pm.
Hurling
Round two of the senior hurling championship saw Aodh Ruadh sinking to a second defeat albeit with a marginally improved performance on their first outing against Buncrana. The Ernesiders lost out to Setanta on a scoreline of 1-10 to 0-18 on Saturday evening in Father Tierney Park. Aodh Ruadh played with the aid of the breeze in the first half, but a continuation of their poor form from Scarvey the previous week saw them going in trailing 0-4 to 0-8. The Ernesiders delivered an improved display in the second half and managed to get the game back level with the aid of an Eddie Lynch goal. However poor handling too often saw possession given away cheaply and with Kevin Campbell and Danny Cullen in clinical form, especially from dead ball, Setanta were able to pull away in the last ten minutes. The performance of the full back line was a bright spot for Ballyshannon, but again it was Paul Sheridan, deployed at centre half back, who was the star man. Further up the pitch Damien Cleary increasingly came in to things as the game went on. Aodh Ruadh now have a second successive home game where they will be hoping to develop some of the good play on show against Setanta. That sees them return to Ulster Táin League action with Castleblayney the visitors to Father Tierney Park this Saturday at 4pm. Then the following Saturday the Ernesiders are out again in championship action with the clash against Burt in Father Tierney Park throwing in at 7.30pm.Having booked their place in the under 21 C All-Ireland final with a 4-11 to 1-10 victory over Louth two weeks ago, the Donegal under 21s now know their final opposition. This Saturday will see them taking on Fermanagh in Healy Park, Omagh at 3pm. There is a heavy Aodh Ruadh representation on this team with Kevin Loughlin in the management and Matt Ahern, Tommy Gillespie, Eddie Lynch, Stephen Connolly and Ciaran Rami all members of the panel. We wish all the lads the very best as they bid to bring the Andrew O'Neill Cup back to the Hills.
The minor replay with Setanta took place on Thursday last in Father Tierney Park and a much improved performance by Aodh Ruadh saw them run out convincing winners 2-13 to 0-2. The lads approached this game with a much better attitude and that was the main reason why they won so well. They now play Burt in the final with details to be confirmed. We have pictures from the semi-final victory live on aodhruadh.org.
The under 12s continued their great start to the season with a hard fought win away to Saint Eunan's on Thursday. In a close game throughout the lads ran out worthy winners on a 4-9 to 4-6 score line. They are away to Four Masters this week.
On Saturday we hosted the Peter O'Keefe under 16 Ulster / Connacht Tournament. In existence since 2011 to honour the memory of the late Peter and the contribution he made to hurling locally and throughout the province, this was one of the most competitive tournaments yet. Six counties took part with Donegal, Roscommon and Leitrim in Group A in Father Tierney Park while in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh we had Tyrone, Mayo and Sligo. Donegal beat Roscommon and Leitrim in their group and qualified to play Tyrone in the final. It was one of the most hard fought finals yet as the Red Hand lads battled ferociously to claim this title for the first time. Their physicality and ability to field the ball were the main differences between the teams and they ran out comfortable winners 6-6 to 3-5. So it turned out to be an omen for the following day's Ulster Final. John Rooney on behalf of the local juvenile hurling committee acted as MC for the presentation. He thanked the Ulster GAA for organising the tournament and specifically Kevin Kelly. He paid tribute to all the teams who attended and he spoke of the late Peter O'Keefe and the great worker he was for under age hurling. He welcomed Peter's wife Rosaleen and his sister Marilyn to the event and called on Marilyn to present the runners-up medals to Donegal captain John Vaughan. Rosaleen O'Keefe spoke on behalf of the family and thanked all involved in organising the day and spoke of how proud the family are to see Peter's memory being honoured with this tournament before presenting the cup to the winning Tyrone captain. Aodh Ruadh were represented on the team by Eoin Doherty and he did very well in all the games.
The under 14 county blitz took place in Sligo on Saturday and Aodh Ruadh were represented on the squad by Nathan Owens-Kelly. Donegal beat Sligo and Longford and lost out to Mayo and Roscommon. Nathan acquitted himself well in all games.
Training as normal at 12 noon on Sunday for all age groups.
Abbey Centre Bingo
The €400 jackpot was won again by Edmund Brennan of Mountcharles for the second time in three weeks. There was no winner of the summer snowball so it now stands at €375 on 46 numbers or less. See you at the usual time of 9pm on Friday at the Abbey Centre. Books cost just €10 for 11 games.
- 26 July
-
Club Meeting
The monthly meeting of the Aodh Ruadh Club Executive takes place this Thursday at 9pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. All committee members are asked to attend.Football
Aodh Ruadh returned to winning ways on Saturday as they saw off Naomh Bríd on a scoreline of 2-12 to 1-8 in Father Tierney Park. The visitors enjoyed their best periods of play over the first 30 minutes. However they could only add four points in the second half as Aodh Ruadh tightened up and when David McGurrin found the net at the three-quarter mark the writing was on the wall for the Páirc Naomh Bríd outfit. Best for Aodh Ruadh on the night were Colm Kelly who anchored the defence brilliantly, and Conor Patton, Damian Cleary and Pauric Patton who got through an ocean of work in midfield. Up front every single man in the attack gave a great account of themselves. We have a full match report and pictures from the game up on aodhruadh.org.The reserves put the horror show at Buncrana behind them on Saturday evening with a double scores victory over neighbours Naomh Bríd. The hosts were dominant throughout, but only managed to hold a slender half-time lead having conceded two sloppy goals to give the visitors hope. The opening points came from Oisin Rooney, Christopher 'Spanny' Goan and Daniel Warnock. Those were soon followed by a David Finnerty goal before Naomh Bríd opened their account. Stephen Walls got them started with a free which they followed up with a bundled goal from McClay after a mix up in the Aodh Ruadh defence to leave the scores at 1-3 to 1-1 mid-way through the half. A Barry Mulligan free followed by another Goan point and one from PJ Gillespie extended the hosts lead to five points before yet another defensive mix up led to an own goal bringing Naomh Bríd back into the game. Mickey McNeely added the final score of the half to leave the score at 1-6 to 2-1 at the break. The second half saw Aodh Ruadh in more uncompromising form and two James Kelly shimmied goals either side of a Darren Gethins major pushed them well out in front. Second half points from Oisin Rooney, Daniel Warnock, Gary Carty and Val Murray saw the Ernesiders easing to victory and able to empty the bench with the final score reading 4-10 to 2-4 in favour of the hosts. We should have an extended match report and pictures from the game up on aodhruadh.org over the course of the week.
No senior league fixtures scheduled this weekend with All-Ireland Round 4B qualifier and All-Ireland minor quarter-final games against Cork in Croke Park on Saturday taking centre stage. We wish the very best of luck to Peter Boyle and his senior county colleagues and to our representatives on the minor squad, Nathan Boyle, Shane McGrath and Oisin Rooney, plus Mick McGrath in the back room team as they bid to take another step to All-Ireland honours.
The under 12s entertained Derrygonnelly in Páirc Aoidh Ruadh on Saturday morning and gave a good account of themselves against the Fermanagh opposition. We have pictures from the inter-county clash up on aodhruadh.org. There are two tournaments left for under 12s this season - the Bakery Cup and the Willie Rogers. The Willie Rogers tournament will be on Saturday August 6th with details for the Bakery Cup to follow. There will also be the indoor competition over the winter, but the regular training sessions on Mondays and Fridays have now concluded for the year.
The under 10s had an action packed Saturday with the annual Mick Shannon under 10 tournament being staged in Father Tierney Park and Páirc Aoidh Ruadh. We were pleased to welcome teams from Naomh Bríd and Bundoran and with over 30 players Aodh Ruadh fielded three teams. The senior competition was a very entertaining and hard fought affair with Naomh Bríd reaching the decider with victories over Aodh Ruadh and Bundoran. The host's victory over Bundoran saw them setting up a final rematch with the Ballintra / Laghey men. The final was an enthralling spectacle with both sides giving it absolutely everything before the final whistle saw an Odhran Gillespie point separating the sides and Aodh Ruadh crowned Mick Shannon champions with captain Eoin Doogan hoisting the Mick Shannon trophy. In the junior competition the two Aodh Ruadh teams gained victories over a brave Bundoran side before meeting in the decider. After another clinker of a final the honours were shared when a last gasp score leveled the game and the respective captains, Dara O'Mahoney and Cillian Slevin, jointly lifted the Mick Shannon shield. The presentations also saw Darragh Gallagher of Naomh Bríd picking up the award for player of the senior tournament, while Jack McCadden took that award in the junior section. Many thanks as ever to our parents and guardians who once again put on a great spread of food upstairs in the Aras for all the attendees. Thanks also to our refs on the day and Ken Monaghan who looked after the administration. We have pictures from the game up on aodhruadh.org. Under 10 training continues this Friday from 6.30pm to 7.30pm at Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh.
The under 8s have a blitz against Bundoran this Thursday at 7pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. Players are to be up for 6.30pm and we ask our parents / guardians to help with the post match catering with sandwiches, buns or similar. Under 8 training continues this Friday from 6.30pm to 7.30pm at Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh and is followed by the presentation of results of our second skills test and medals for the category winners. The third and final skills test will take place at the end of September or start of October.
Ladies
The under 12 girls break continues this week, but we will be returning to action after the Bank Holiday weekend. Keep an eye on next week's notes for details. There are plans in train for an under 13 league, with this due to commence at the end of August or beginning of September.The under 8s and 10s had an enjoyable blitz against Ardara in Father Tierney Park on Monday evening. The under 10s will be out again on Wednesday, 28th July when they have an away fixture. Management will be in touch with details nearer the time. Under 8 and under 10 training has now concluded for the year.
Hurling
Another frustrating result for the senior hurlers as they came up just short against Castleblayney in Father Tierney Park on Saturday afternoon in the Ulster Táín League. The hosts lost out to the Monaghan men by the minimum on a final scoreline of 2-10 to 1-14. The Saturday sees the Ernesiders out again in championship action with the clash against Burt in Father Tierney Park throwing in at 7.30pm.Congratulations to the Donegal under 21s who retained their All-Ireland C hurling championship crown. Donegal defeated Fermanagh 3-7 to 1-2 in Healy Park last Sunday with Aodh Ruadh hurlers playing their part in the victory. Ciaran Rami started at corner back while Eddie Lynch lined out at corner forward. Matt Ahern and Tommy Gillespie also made appearances from the bench as Donegal kept the Erne men to a solitary second half point. Stephen Connolly was part of the panel too, while Kevin Loughlin was part of the Tir Chonaill management team which oversaw the victory. Donegal will now play Kerry for a chance to play in the under 21 B Championship next year, but will have to travel to the Kingdom for that clash.
The minors played Burt in the Minor B Championship Final in the Centre of Excellence in Convoy last Thursday. As was the pattern all year we were without a number of players on the night, due to a bereavement and injury. That left Aodh Ruadh with a panel of 17 on the night. We were rocked by a Burt goal in the opening minute and it took us about five minutes before we got going and got our first point. By the 10th minute the game was level 1-0 to 0-3. Burt then had a player sent off and as is so often the case the team with 14 men showed the greater determination and desire for the rest of the game. Burt finished the half strongly and led at half time 1-6 to 0-4. The game was played in atrocious weather conditions and the physically stronger Burt lads adapted to these conditions far better than Ballyshannon. Full credit to our young squad, they never gave up, but they never looked like winning as the Burt lads ran out comfortable winners 2-11 to 1-6. That brought the curtain down on a very difficult season for the minors, disappointingly a number of players didn't make themselves available this year and we were operating all year with a very young squad. On a positive note 14 of the 17 who togged out on Thursday evening are underage again next year. Five lads that were on this year's squad began hurling in 2006 at under 8. They are now finished their underage hurling career with the club and it's hoped they'll progress to senior level. They gave great service to underage hurling in the club over the years. The 5 were Pat Haran, Kieran Daly, Oisin Rooney, Brendan Gillespie and Cian Duffy. Thanks as always to our loyal parents who brought the lads to the game and gave great support in terrible weather conditions, it was much appreciated.
The under 12s continued their great start to the season with an emphatic win over neighbours Four Masters. They were missing a number of players due to the Foyle Cup and it was great to see other players coming in and stepping up to the mark. Thanks to the parents who drove the lads to the game. They are up against Setanta this Thursday in the Cross.
The under 16s play Carndonagh at home in the league on Thursday evening.
Training at 12 noon on Sunday for all age groups.
Abbey Centre Bingo
They say lightening doesn't strike twice but we can report that the €400 jackpot went to the same home for the second time in three weeks yet again, this time going to Mary McMahon of the Donegal Road. There was no winner of the summer snowball so it now stands at €400 on 46 numbers or less. Due to the Folk Festival being on in the Abbey Centre, this week's bingo will be held at Coláiste Cholmcille on College Street at the usual time of 9pm on Friday. It will be a normal bingo with a €1,950 prize fund, with books costing just €10 for 11 games. The big bingo for July will be held on our return to the Abbey Centre on August 5th.