Club Notes Archive - 2017
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JULY
- 4 July
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Football
Aodh Ruadh chalked up an impressive 0-6 to 1-9 away victory in one of the toughest venues in the county on Sunday as they got the better Termon on home turf. They laid down a marker early on with returnee Johnny Gethins hitting the opener five minutes in. Michael 'Sticky' Ward was instrumental as Aodh Ruadh eked out the scores in the first half, setting up Darren Drummond to point and then Damien Cleary to hit the net. Sticky Ward landed a point himself to make it 0-3 to 1-4 at the turnover. An early Philip Patton point ensured Ballyshannon took the initiative at the start of the new half. Termon hit two answering points, but a Peter Boyle free and points from Philip Patton and Sticky Ward saw the Ernesiders clinch a double scores victory. The seniors have no fixture for the coming weekend, but return to action the week following with a top of the table clash against Naomh Columba in Father Tierney Park.Congratulations to Peter Boyle, Eamonn McGrath and the Donegal seniors on their All-Ireland qualifier win against Longford last Saturday and best of luck against Meath this coming weekend.
The under 16s lost out against Naomh Muire in the division 2 third place play-off on Friday evening. It was a rollercoaster of a game with the 15 Aodh Ruadh lads who travelled absolutely emptying the tank in Dunkineely. They got off to a bad start with the Annagry boys hitting 1-6 before Ballyshannon opened their account with a Mark McGlynn point after 11 minutes. Senan Rooney and Odhran McGarrigle registered before a quick-fire 1-2 from Shane Brady made it 1-5 to 1-7 20 minutes in. Naomh Muire answered with a goal and despite another 1-1 from Shane Brady it was 2-5 to 3-9 in favour of the Gaeltacht side at the turnover. The side refocused at half-time and got off to the perfect start when a Mark McGlynn point was followed by a typical assassin's finish from Frankie McGinley after some good work by Senan Rooney. A Shane Brady free was followed by more good work by McGinley who set up Brady for another well taken goal. A Mark McGlynn point after 42 minutes made it 4-10 to 3-11, but Naomh Muire hit a goal to go back front as the game moved into the final quarter. Aodh Ruadh refused to lie down though and Odhran McGarrigle levelled it again before a Shane Brady penalty made it 5-11 to 4-11 with 14 minutes left to play. However the game swung dramatically the way of Annagry as they hit three goals in three minutes to leave Aodh Ruadh with a mountain to climb and time running out. Shane Brady (2) and Senan Rooney added further points but Naomh Muire ran out 5-14 to 8-12 winners, the scoreline nowhere near an accurate reflection of the exchanges. Shane Brady had an exceptional day up front finishing with 4-6. Mark McGlynn capped an excellent outing with 0-4 while Senan Rooney and Odhran McGarrigle registered 0-2 apiece. Frankie McGinley didn't put a foot wrong up front either and was well worth his goal. In defence David and Eugene Doherty battled ferociously while Jake Foley also put in a great shift between the posts, making two brilliant stops.
The under 14s face Dungloe this Wednesday in the Southern Divisional league semi-final. The team will be leaving the park at 5.30pm, with throw-in at Dungloe at 7.30pm.
Ardara, finishing third in the table had home advantage in the under 12 Divisional Shield final against an Aodh Ruadh side who faced a huge struggle with only 12 players out of a panel of 34 available to play on the day. The shortage of players meant many lads were out of position with Aonghus Sweeny playing in goals for the first time and Killian Bradshaw and Caolan McCauley playing their first under 12 senior game. Aodh Ruadh settled in well getting three early points on the board and netting their first goal before Ardara got off the mark. Ardara got through for three goals in the first half which kept them in the game, but Aodh Ruadh managed 2-6 in the first 20 minutes and were three points up at half time. The second half was a huge battle and again Ardara's ability to get goals threatened to spoil the day for Aodh Ruadh. The referee played almost 29 minutes in the second half with the teams level 3-8 to 5-2 at the final whistle. Extra time was called and Aodh Ruadh, playing against a strong breeze in the first half of extra time, had a number of attempts fall short or go wide. At the turn around we were two points behind despite playing the better football. The assistance of the breeze in the final ten minutes was crucial and Aodh Ruadh's persistence and confidence grew as we notched up four points while Ardara failed to add to their tally. In the end 3-14 to 6-3 carried the day for the Ballyshannon boys and Captain Robbie Murphy was presented with the Shield by referee Declan O'Callaghan.
This was a game which saw the under 12 team mature in front of our eyes. Battle hardened from a number of tough games this season there was a resilience and hunger which proved the difference between this game and others where we had fallen away. Across the board we lifted our work rate and focused on positive football. Jack Gallagher stood out for his tireless work up front while Eoghan Kelly was the pick of the defenders on the day. Ardara were gracious in defeat and many thanks for providing all the players and supporters with tea and snacks afterwards.
The win sees us qualify for County Finals Day which will be held on Saturday 8th or 15th July. This year sees a new format for County Finals Day with the eight top teams in the county coming together for a monster blitz. This will be a great day for football and we are delighted and proud to have the opportunity to represent Aodh Ruadh at this event. Under 12 training continues Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 5pm to 6.15pm.The under 10s played Enniskillen Gaels and Erne Gaels on Saturday winning all their matches and playing some great football in the process. Later on the team travelled to take in the Donegal v Longford qualifier, with a great time being had by all. Under 10 training continues as usual on Monday and Friday. Next Wednesday 12th July we are travelling to Sligo to take part in a blitz at the Saint John's club. The following Saturday 15th July we will be hosting our annual Mick Shannon under 10 tournament with Ardara, Grange and Derrygonnelly all attending and bringing three teams.
The under 8s enjoyed a good competitive blitz on Monday evening against Saint Naul's and Naomh Conaill. The squad will train as usual on Friday at 6.15pm. We are planning a trip to Saint John's in Sligo on Wednesday 12th July. Management will have more details nearer the time.
Ladies
Our annual duck race for the underage girls football will take place this Friday at 6pm sharp. It will take place at McKenna's Brook, East Port. Could those who have yet to return their cards please come a little earlier around 5.30pm. Thanks for your support.The under 16s host Grange for a challenge this Thursday at 7pm. All players to be at the park for 6pm. Under 16 training continues on Sundays at 7.30pm. Under 14 players ineligible for under 13 football are welcome to attend.
Under 10 and under 8 training continues in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh on Mondays from 6.15pm to 7.15pm.
Hurling
Aodh Ruadh under 12s opened their league campaign on Thursday last in Father Tierney Park against Buncrana. The Inishowen lads ability to hit the net proved the difference as they ran out worthy winners on a 5-4 to 1-4 scoreline. They are away to Gaoth Dobhair this Thursday.Our under 14s headed off to Loughrea bright and early on Saturday morning to take part in a tournament. They were in a group with three Galway teams; Sarsfield's, Killimordaly and Michael Cusack's. While they lost their three games they competed well in all games, playing some lovely hurling. Their final game was against New York who won the Division 1 Féile Peil na nÓg National Title the previous week. After a tough game against a physical and athletic squad the lads again came up short. The squad were shown great hospitality by the Loughrea club. After the games they headed to the home of the famous TJ Larkin, one of the finest hurley makers in Ireland. There they saw how hurls are made. All in all the lads had a great day and well done to Denis Daly and Daithi Breen who brought the lads on this great trip.
Training continues for all ages at 12 noon on Sunday.
Summer Camp
The 26th annual Aodh Ruadh Summer Camp started yesterday Monday, 3rd July and will continue until Friday, 14th July. There's loads to do with football, hurling, swimming, rounders, obstacle courses and plenty of other fun and games. Each week of the camp concludes with a sports day on Friday. The camp runs from 10am to 3pm and is open to all children from 6 to 14 years-of-age. Apart from being great fun, the camp represents excellent value. The cost per week is €70 per child. Family concessions are as follows: €120 for two children; €170 for three children; and €200 for four children. Children should bring a packed lunch as no one will be allowed to leave the camp during the day. You can download the registration form from aodhruadh.org.Dermot Earley Youth Leadership Initiative
Following on from its successful rollout in 2015-16, the GAA, Foróige and NUIG announce that the innovative Dermot Earley Youth Leadership Initiative application process is now open to young GAA club members, male and female aged 15-18 years-old. Fully supported by the family of the late great Dermot Earley Sr, the lively and interactive initiative is designed to support the next generation of young GAA leaders in achieving their full potential and in doing so to make their mark in their clubs, their counties, and indeed their country. The initiative is a year long programme running over three modules between September 2017 and May 2018. It involves 30 hours of workshops designed to develop the leadership skills that Dermot epitomised on and off the field. 30 hours of self-directed learning is also required before the participants put their enhanced leadership skills into action through a club or community-based action project. There is a commitment required for the programme so please consider this before applying. There is a €40 registration fee to cover the costs of the participants 3 workbooks. Those who complete all three modules will have the opportunity to graduate from NUIG with a Foundation Certificate in Youth Leadership and Community Action The workshops will take place in participants own county and will be facilitated by a trained tutors.All application forms should be accompanied by a nomination form. Marks are given for the nomination form. Your nominator can not be a relative or a family member. Closing date for receipt of applications is midnight Sunday 16th July. To apply for the programme please fill out the online application and nomination form at gaa.ie.Abbey Centre Bingo
The June Big bingo jackpot of €800 was won by Noelle Gillen of Ballyshannon. Karen Gallagher claimed the stand-up prize of €185. There was no winner of the snowball, so it rolls up to €250 on 46 numbers or less. Bingo as usual this Friday at 9pm, books priced just €10.
- 11 July
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Aodh Ruadh return to league action this Sunday with a top of the table clash against Naomh Columba in Father Tierney Park. The reserves throw in at 1.30pm followed by the senior at 3pm. Come along for what is sure to be a entertaining and high quality encounter.Congratulations to Peter Boyle, Eamonn McGrath and the Donegal seniors on their All-Ireland qualifier win against Meath last Saturday and best of luck against Galway the next day out, Saturday 22nd July in Sligo's Markievicz Park at 7pm.
Best of luck also to Donegal Masters manager Val Murray as well as his Aodh Ruadh playing recruits Michael 'Sticky' Ward, Packie McGrath and Kerry Ryan when they take on the combined forces of Longford and Leitrim in the All-Ireland Masters Championship at 8pm on Wednesday in Ballinamore.
The under 16 squad will have a fitness test in Páirc Aodh Ruadh followed by a meeting in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh this Wednesday. All players to be on the pitch for the fitness test at 7pm.
It was a week to remember for the Aodh Ruadh under 14s. Last Wednesday saw them making the long trip to Dungloe where they came out on top after a frenetic shoot-out 5-14 to 6-14 in the Southern Division 1 semi-final. That set up a final clash in Ardara with their regular sparring partners, Four Masters, on Friday evening. The Donegal Town men had got the better of the Ernesiders twice already this season. However there was no dispute about the worthy winner on the night with Aodh Ruadh quickly assuming a grip which they maintained throughout most of the game. Defending from both sides was magnificent in a low-scoring first half, with the sides going in at Aodh Ruadh 0-6 Four Masters 0-2. It was only when Aodh Ruadh's attacking division turned up the heat in the second half that Ballyshannon could feel in any way comfortable against this dangerous Donegal side. It was a real team performance from Gerald McGloin's men to take the silverware on the night. Despite not scoring, Jake Foley was one of the most instrumental Aodh Ruadh attackers, while Cian Rooney played a captain's role for the Ernesiders. Aaron Neilan performed with the control and composure of a player beyond his years, while the half back line of Ryan Keenaghan, Kyle Murray and Calum Doherty Craig were also outstanding. There is an extended match report up on aodhruadh.org. The under 14s now have a county quarter-final against Saint Eunan's this Friday in Father Tierney Park at 7pm. All support once again very welcome for this important game.
The under 12s will be taking part in a County Finals Day extravaganza this Saturday 15th July in MacCumhaill Park, Ballybofey. This year sees a new format for County Finals Day with the eight top teams in the county coming together for a monster blitz. There are two sections with section A featuring Glenswilly, Malin, Four Master and MacCumhaill's. Aodh Ruadh are in section B with Saint Eunan's, Muff and Naomh Conaill. Games are 10 minutes a half and the Ballyshannon lads first game throws-in at 11am against Saint Eunan's. All players are to be down in MacCumhaill Park for 10.15am, Under 12 training as usual on Wednesday from 5pm to 6.15pm, with no Friday session this week.
The under 10s are travelling to take on Saint John's of Sligo this Wednesday evening. The squad meeting at Father Tierney Park at 5.30pm. There will be no u10 training Friday evening. This Saturday 15th July will see the annual Mick Shannon tournament taking centre stage. All players are to be in dressing rooms at 10am sharp. Parents / guardians are asked to please bring loaf of sandwiches, buns, biscuits, or similar to help with refreshments on the day. It would be great if some parents could help out behind the hatch upstairs in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh on the day too.
Under 8 training continues as usual on Friday 14th July at 6.15pm. Our under 8's are going to Killybegs on Saturday 15th July. All players are to be at the Killybegs pitch for 10.30am as the first games throw in at 11am. The pitch is about 2km on the left on the road out of Killybegs towards Kilcar. As well as Aodh Ruadh and Killybegs, teams from Naomh Bríd and Naomh Ultan will also be taking part.
Ladies
Realt Ruadh got their championship off to the perfect start with a 3-16 to 1-1 victory over Gaoth Dobhair. They followed up that display with an almost as energetic performance at the presentation of their 2016 league medals in Seán Ógs!The under 16s had a useful challenge against Grange last Thursday with Dearbhla McGuckin, Eilish Gallagher, and Aisling Gallagher all putting in impressive performances, with Katherine McClay also doing well, albeit for the wrong side! Many thanks to Val Murray for reffing. This Thursday the team get their league campaign underway when they entertain Saint Eunan's in Father Tierney Park at 7pm. All players are to be up at the park for 6pm. The girls have worked very hard in preparation for this league campaign and it would be good to see a big showing of support up to get behind the team for this opening game. Under 16 training continues on Sunday at 7.30pm.
An under 8 and under 10 blitz will take place in the park next Monday 17th July from 6.30pm. Ardara, Kinlough and Saint Mary's, Sligo will be in attendance. As we have always been treated so well at away blitzes, we ask parents to help out on the night with refreshments for the children in the club house. If each family could supply some sandwiches, biscuits, buns or similar it would be greatly appreciated.
Hurling
The under 12s made the long trip to Dungloe and suffered a narrow defeat to Dungloe / Gaoth Dobhair on a 4-1 to 2-4 scoreline. They are away to Saint Eunan's this Thursday.The under 16s are due to open their league campaign this Thursday at home to Dungloe. Throw-in is at 8.30 pm.
Training continues for all ages at 12 noon on Sunday.
Dermot Earley Youth Leadership Initiative
Following on from its successful rollout in 2015-16, the GAA, Foróige and NUIG announce that the innovative Dermot Earley Youth Leadership Initiative application process is now open to young GAA club members, male and female aged 15-18 years-old. Fully supported by the family of the late great Dermot Earley Sr, the lively and interactive initiative is designed to support the next generation of young GAA leaders in achieving their full potential and in doing so to make their mark in their clubs, their counties, and indeed their country. The initiative is a year long programme running over three modules between September 2017 and May 2018. It involves 30 hours of workshops designed to develop the leadership skills that Dermot epitomised on and off the field. 30 hours of self-directed learning is also required before the participants put their enhanced leadership skills into action through a club or community-based action project. There is a commitment required for the programme so please consider this before applying. There is a €40 registration fee to cover the costs of the participants 3 workbooks. Those who complete all three modules will have the opportunity to graduate from NUIG with a Foundation Certificate in Youth Leadership and Community Action The workshops will take place in participants own county and will be facilitated by a trained tutors.All application forms should be accompanied by a nomination form. Marks are given for the nomination form. Your nominator can not be a relative or a family member. Closing date for receipt of applications is midnight Sunday 16th July. To apply for the programme please fill out the online application and nomination form at gaa.ie.Abbey Centre Bingo
Last week's jackpot prize of €400 went to Susan Sheridan of Donegal Town. The stand-up prize of €150 was shared between Bridget McDermott and Molly Kerrigan. There was no winner of the snowball so it rolls up to €275 on 46 numbers or less. Bingo as usual on Friday at 9pm at the Abbey Centre with a €2,000 prize fund, books priced only €10.
- 18 July
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Football
Aodh Ruadh's meeting with Naomh Columba was postponed due to a death in Glencolumcille. The club extends its condolences to Naomh Columba on their loss. Our adult sides are due to return to competitive action next Sunday when we host Termon in Father Tierney Park, reserves throwing in at 1.30pm followed by the seniors at 3pm.Best of luck to Peter Boyle, Eamonn McGrath and the Donegal seniors in the All-Ireland qualifiers this against Galway on Saturday in Sligo's Markievicz Park at 7pm. That game will now be a double header with the All-Ireland C Hurling Final between Donegal and Sligo with that game throwing in at 4pm. Our own Ciaran Rami, Eddie Lynch, Oisin Rooney and Conor Kennedy are in the squad with Kevin Loughlin in the back room team, so please go along early and lend your support.
Well done to Val Murray's Donegal Masters on getting their championship campaign off to winning start against a Leitrim / Longford combination last Wednesday night in Ballinamore. They won 1-15 to 0-9 with Michael 'Sticky' Ward landing a point and Packie McGrath also playing his part in the victory. Their next game is on Wednesday week, at home to Tyrone. The Red Hands also got their campaign off to a winning start, defeating Antrim in their opening game.
The under 16 squad will resume collective training on Wednesday, 2nd August at 7pm.
Aodh Ruadh will be taking part in the under 15 Óg Sport seven-a-side tournament this Saturday in Donegal Town. Games start at 11am and all players are to be at the Four Masters grounds for 10.30am.
The under 14s maintained their fine momentum of recent weeks with a 4-12 to 4-4 county quarter-final victory over Saint Eunan's in Father Tierney Park on Friday evening. Aodh Ruadh built a match-winning lead in the middle of the first half after there was little between the sides in the opening ten minutes. Midway through the opening half Gerald McGloin's lads hit 1-5 without reply to take a 2-7 to 1-1 advantage. Aaron Neilan led the way for the winners hitting the second goal and also added a point while Marty McGarrigle chipped in with two. The impressive Ryan Keenaghan was also on the score sheet as they went in at the break with the hosts leading 2-7 to 1-3. Ballyshannon then turned the screw early in the second half when Marty McGarrigle found Danny Breen with a great ball across the goal and Breen netted. A fourth goal supplied by Marty McGarrigle with time running out meant the game was as good as over as Aodh Ruadh led 4-10 to 2-4. Saint Eunan's finished well, but the Ernesiders deservedly booked their place in the county semi-finals with an eight point victory at the final whistle. Apart from Aaron Neilan and Marty McGarrigle, Aodh Ruadh also had strong performers in the full back line, Kyle Murray, Ryan Keenaghan and Cian Rooney, while Aaron Cullen made a number of good saves. Next up for Aodh Ruadh is a county semi-final against Gaoth Dobhair this Friday, 21st July. Venue and time are yet to be confirmed, so keep an eye on Aodh Ruadh CLG on Facebook for updates on that front.
Well done to the Aodh Ruadh under 12 reserve team who won the C final at the county finals day blitz in MacCumhaill Park on Saturday. The seniors topped their group, getting the better of Saint Eunan's, Muff and Naomh Conaill. That set up a county final against Donegal Town, who had beaten Glenswilly, MacCumhaill's and Malin in their group. The Ballyshannon boys played their hearts out, but lost out to a strong Four Masters team on the day. All in all it was a great day of football.
Father Tierney Park was a hive of activity on Saturday as the Mick Shannon under 10 tournament took centre stage. Teams from Ardara, Derrygonnelly and Grange took part, with the tournament played across three grades for the first time. The cup competition saw Aodh Ruadh face Grange in their first game, winning by three points. They then lost to Ardara by two points, a result which saw the hosts needing a win in their last game to make the final. They successfully defeated Derrygonnelly by a point in a close-fought match to set up a rematch with Ardara in the cup decider. The Ernesiders successfully applied the lessons learned from the round robin stages to win the Mick Shannon Cup by three points. It was a great team performance in the final right across the pitch and there was great jubilation as joint captains for the day Barry Campbell and Dara McGloin, raised the Mick Shannon trophy. There was consolation for Ardara though with Eoghan McNelis picking up the player of the tournament award. Aodh Ruadh's shield competition started with a one point loss to Grange, before the side bounced back with good wins against Ardara and Derrygonnelly. The final saw Aodh Ruadh and Grange facing off again and, just like the Cup decider, it was the Ernesiders who learned more from the group stages, going on to win by four points. Killian McPhelim was the victorious captain with Aodh Ruadh's Alan Vaughan selected as player of the tournament. The plate competition was an innovation this year and the final was contested by Derrygonnelly and Grange. In the end it was Saint Molaise Gaels who took the plate, with their own Ryan Lang also claiming the plate player of the tournament accolade. That wrapped up a tournament which was played to an exceptionally high standard. Thanks to Ardara, Derrygonnelly and Grange for making it such an enjoyable day of football. Many thanks to Sylvester Maguire, Cian Barden, Patrick Gillespie, Sean Taylor and Raymie Granaghan who all reffed on the day. And, as ever, thanks to the Aodh Ruadh parents / guardians who put on such a great spread of grub for all the players after their exertions. We have pictures from the game up on aodhruadh.org. Saturday's success followed on an excellent trip to Sligo to take on Saint John's last Wednesday. Aodh Ruadh travelled with 24 players and won both games with both sides playing some good football. Under 10 training continues on Monday and Friday at from 6.15pm to 7.15pm. The team's next blitz is in Ballintra on Saturday, 29th July.
The under 8s had an enjoyable blitz in Killybegs on Saturday. Aodh Ruadh travelled with 14 players, fielding two teams of seven, with each team getting three games. Naomh Bríd, Saint Naul's and Killybegs also contested the blitz. There was plenty of end to end action and great performances by all players. Special guest Jack Buggy came all the way from Wexford and caught the eye, showing the apple doesn't land far from the tree. Under 8 training continues as usual on Friday 28th July at 6.15pm.
Ladies
Aodh Ruadh are back in championship action on Sunday 23rd July. Having won their first leg at home, we wish them the best of luck as the travel to take on Gaoth Dobhair in at Magheragallon for their second leg tie.The minors will be taking on Saint Naul's in Father Tierney Park on Monday 17th July at 7pm. It would be great to see a good crowd up to cheer the girls on.
The under 16s had their opening league game against Saint Eunan's last Thursday in Father Tierney Park. Playing with the aid of the breeze in the first half, Aodh Ruadh had the bulk of the play and created plenty of scoring chances. Ana Keon got the side's first point early on, quickly followed by a Brídín Maguire 45. Eunan's got a point, but Aodh Ruadh answered with scores from Sara Jane Keon, Alicia Clyne and Brídín Maguire (2). A goal for the Letterkenny girls going into the second quarter lifted them and they went on to level the game at 0-6 to 1-3. However the Shamettes responded well and after a fine drive through by Cáit Gillespie, Brídín Maguire was on hand to palm home past the Eunan's keeper. Maguire added a free as half-time closed in to send the sides in at 1-7 to 1-4 at the break. Ballyshannon couldn't get their game going with anywhere near the same fluency in the second half and Saint Eunan's used the breeze well to score readily. Despite 1-1 from Brídín Maguire and a well constructed and taken point by Leah O'Brien for Aodh Ruadh, the Letterkenny girls ran out 2-9 to 6-12 winners. The Ernesiders had good displays from Eilish Gallagher in nets, Aisling Gallagher, Tia McFarland and Aideen Walsh in defence and from the half back line of Síofra Hughes, Caitlin McGarrigle and Ella Clancy. Ana Keon and Andrea McGlynn worked tirelessly in the middle of the park. Up front Brídín Maguire, Leah O'Brien and captain for the day, Cáit Gillespie all did well. We have pictures from the game up on aodhruadh.org. Under 16 training continues on Thursday at 7.45pm and Sunday at 7.30pm. Their next game is away to Moville on Saturday, 29th July at 3pm.
An under 8 and under 10 blitz will take place in the park this Monday 17th July from 6.30pm. Ardara, Kinlough and Saint Mary's, Sligo will be in attendance. As we have always been treated so well at away blitzes, we ask parents to help out on the night with refreshments for the children in the club house. If each family could supply some sandwiches, biscuits, buns or similar it would be greatly appreciated.
Hurling
The under 12s travelled to O'Donnell Park on Thursday to take on Saint Eunan's. In a close game the Letterkenny lads ability to hit the net proved the difference and they ran out winners 4-3 to 2-3.Our under 16 team opened their league campaign at home to Dungloe / Gaoth Dobhair also on Thursday evening. We fielded a very young team. Despite only having 12 players the lads played their hearts out. They led until mid way through the second half when the physically stronger Gaeltacht amalgamation began to get on top. A couple of late goals turned the game and they ran out winners 6-10 to 3-9. Our numbers are very small at the age group and it's going to be a tough season for the lads, but they're up for the challenge. We have pictures from the game up on aodhruadh.org. They are away to Buncrana this Thursday.
Training as normal for all age groups on Sunday at 12 noon.
Abbey Centre Bingo
Last week's jackpot prize of €400 was won by Frank Breslin of Glenties. The stand-up prize of €150 was shared three ways. There was no winner of the snowball so it rolls up to €300 on 46 numbers or less. Bingo as usual on Friday at 9pm at the Abbey Centre with a €2,000 prize fund, books priced only €10.
- 25 July
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Club meeting
The Aodh Ruadh monthly club executive committee meeting will take place on Thursday 27th July 9pm. All executive members are asked to attend.Football
Aodh Ruadh got back to winning ways on Sunday afternoon with a 4-14 to 1-13 win over Termon which takes them five points clear at the top of the division two table. Termon got off to a flier with their most effective forward, Enda McCormick drilling home a spot kick 90 seconds in. However Aodh Ruadh forged their way to the front after eight minutes when points from Philip Patton and Nathan Boyle were followed by a Darren Drummond goal. Further goals from Diarmaid McInerney in the 13th and 18th minutes put the hosts firmly in the driving seat, with Shane McGrath playing a key creative role in both McInerney's finishes. At the break it was the Ernesiders leading 3-6 to 1-5. The homesters faced the breeze after the break, but still managed early points from Shane McGrath and Philip Patton. Termon characteristically fought back to narrow the gap to two goals with the game entering the final quarter. However Aodh Ruadh came with a sprint finish and points from David Dolan and Seamus Kane were followed by a goal from Oisin Rooney to make the points safe for James O'Donnell's men. We have pictures from the game up on aodhruadh.org.It is another big game for Aodh Ruadh on Saturday evening as they entertain Naomh Columba for their rescheduled game in Father Tierney Park at 7.30pm. There's a lot on the line for this one and it would be good to see a vocal and partisan Ballyshannon support in the Park to get behind the team. Why not make an effort to get up a bit earlier and give the reserves a bit of support too in their 6pm throw-in against the Glencolumcille second string. The reserves had a walkover against Termon last week and a win on Saturday would catapult them up to third in the table.
Commiserations to Donegal on championship defeat to Galway on Sunday. From a Ballyshannon perspective it was good to see, at long last, Peter Boyle making a deserved championship debut. Like many Donegal supporters, it won't be a game he will remember with much fondness, but we hope it will mark the starting point for bigger things to come over the not too distant future. We commend Eamonn McGrath for all his hard work with the county team this year also. The lads do at least have the comfort of realistic prospects of league and championship honours to contend for as the club season unfolds.
Best wishes to the minors who commence their championship against Kilcar in Father Tierney Park on Wednesday 27th July at 7pm.
Hard luck to the Aodh Ruadh under 15 Óg Sport squad who drew a blank on Saturday despite some good performances in Donegal town. The under 16 squad will resume collective training on Wednesday, 2nd August at 7pm.
Aodh Ruadh's under 14 league title challenge ended in Killybegs on Monday evening. The Ernesiders were light on numbers for the game with 17 making the trip and a number of usual starters absent for a variety of reasons. Nevertheless Ballyshannon battled gamely and it was 1-1 to 2-2 in favour of the Gaeltacht men at half-time. The second half saw Aodh Ruadh putting in a determined effort and closing in on the leaders. However an opportunist goal for Gaoth Dobhair knocked the stuffing out that late charge and that saw them press on for a 5-8 to 3-7 victory and book a place in the county final. Aodh Ruadh's best performances were in defence where, as ever, Seimí Campbell and Matt Gillespie gave everything they had and up front Mitch McLaughlin caused plenty of trouble. The under 14s are now out in championship tonight, Wednesday, against Naomh Conaill in the first round of the group stages. Throw-in at Glenties is at 7.30pm.
The under 10's next blitz is take place this Friday, 28th July in Páirc Naomh Bríd. All players are to be in Ballintra for 6pm. Training continues as usual on Monday and then we will be away to Saint Mary's, Sligo for a blitz on Wednesday 2nd August. Players are to meet in the Park for 5.30pm before heading for Sligo town.
The Aodh Ruadh under 8s travelled with 23 players to Ardara on Saturday for a big blitz at the splendid facilities in Pearse Memorial Park. All teams did very well on the day playing some impressive football. Well done to the A team who won the Shield Final, beating Kilcar in the decider. A fun day was had by all and many thanks to Ardara for hosting the blitz as smoothly as ever. Under 8 training continues as usual on Friday 28th July at 6.15pm.
Ladies
Realt Ruadh travelled to Machaire Gathlán for the second leg of their opening championship tie on a hot Sunday morning. Sarah Patton opened the game with a bang, firing home a goal for the visitors and following up with a few points to add to her tally. Gaoth Dobhair converted three points to reduce the lead to four. Defensively Sara Gallagher and Hannah Doherty came out on top beating their defenders one-on-one in several encounters. Roise Keon and Tara Khan did well moving the play out of danger zone and into attack. Rebecca Gillespie fired home a goal for Realt Ruadh to leave the scores at 3-4 to 1-5 in favour of visitors at the interval. Katie Gallagher opened the second half with two consecutive goals as Realt Ruadh took the driving seat. They were in full control for this period, only conceding two points in the second half. Natasha Gormley made two great saves to twice deny Gaoth Dobhair goals which might have given them some chink of daylight. The forward line continued their free-scoring form with substitutes like Danika Doherty contributing 1-1 to the tally. Realt Ruadh worked tirelessly and ruthlessly until the end in the hot conditions. A scoreline 6-9 to 1-7 reflected a great team performance for the girls who now progress into the county semi-finals.Under 16 training continues on Thursday at 7.45pm. The next league game is this Saturday, 29th July at 3pm away to Moville. Bus departs from the park at 12 noon.
The under 8s and under 10s girls enjoyed a exciting blitz in Father Tierney Park recently. Ardara, Kinlough and Saint Mary's, Sligo were the guests for a great day of football. Thanks to our referees on the days and the parents / guardians who put on a great spread afterwards. We have some pictures from the blitz up on aodhruadh.org.
Hurling
There was a silver lining to Saturday's proceedings with the Donegal under 21s claiming the All-Ireland C title with a 1-14 to 0-12 win over Sligo in Markievicz Park. Aodh Ruadh were well represented on the day. Ciaran Rami gave a good account of himself at corner back, while Eddie Lynch playing at corner forward finished with three points to his credit. Oisin Rooney struck for the game's only goal just three minutes in and that score was to be the difference between the sides for much of the game. Donegal took the foot off the gas in the second half, but a late scoring rally, which saw Eddie Lynch on the mark, helped the Tir Chonaill men to a third Andrew O'Neill trophy on the trot. Conor Kennedy was also a member of the squad with Kevin Loughlin part of the back room team.The under 16s are due to play Letterkenny Gaels at home this Thursday.
Well done to the under 12s who had their first win of the league away to Four Masters. In a much improved performance they were convincing winners hopefully their good form will continue this Thursday away to Setanta.
The county under 12 skills competition took place in Convoy on Sunday we were represented by Michael Doogan, Cian Mc Kenna, Hugh Maguire, Tommy Clyne and Jack McCadden the lads all did very well.
We are running a bus to the All-Ireland semi-final between Galway and Tipperary on the 6th August. Full details later.
Training as normal for all age groups on Sunday at 12 noon.
Abbey Centre Bingo
Last week's €400 jackpot was won by Annie McGloin of Belleek, whilst Sheila Killalea won the stand up prize of €150. The July big bingo is this Friday at 9pm at the Abbey Centre, with over €3,000 in the prize fund including the €1,000 jackpot game and the €325 snowball game. Books priced at €15, or get the book and a half special for €20.