Club Notes Archive - 2019
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OCTOBER
- 1 October
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Football
Aodh Ruadh powered their way into the IFC semi-finals with a comprehensive 2-19 to 0-8 victory over Naomh Muire in Glenfin on Saturday. Both sides took time to settle into the game, with the Annagry men opening the scoring 12 minutes in, Johnny Gethins cancelling that out shortly after. That was followed an almost uninterrupted run of points from Philip Patton (3), Cian Dolan, Oisin Rooney, Niall Murray, Shane McGrath and Shane Gillespie which saw Ballyshannon taking a 0-9 to 0-3 lead in at the break. The sides swapped points at the start of the second half before a clever ball from Philip Patton put Nathan Boyle through to slam to the net. Naomh Muire continued to battle, but when Nathan Boyle netted his second goal nine minutes from time the writing was well and truly on the wall. A great all-round team performance from the Ernesiders and they will look ahead to this weekend's IFC semi-final against Cloich Cheann Fhaola with a quiet sense of optimism. Aodh Ruadh's team and scorers against Naomh Muire were as follows. Peter Boyle; Callum O'Halloran, Colm Kelly, Johnny Gethins (0-1); Shane Gillespie (0-1), Johnny Gallagher (0-1), Sean Taylor; Cian Dolan (0-1), Conor Patton (0-1); Nathan Boyle (2-2), Philip Patton (0-5, 1f), Oisin Rooney (0-2); Diarmuid McInerney (0-2), Niall Murray (0-2), Shane McGrath (0-1). Subs: Ryan McKenna for S McGrath (BC); Darren Drummond for N Murray; Paddy Gillespie for S Gillespie; Michael Ward for O'Halloran.Aodh Ruadh reserves recovered from a shaky opening period in their quarter-final clash with Gaeil Fhánada on Saturday to run out comfortable 2-18 to 1-9 winners with Michael 'Sticky' Ward and David McGurrin sharing 15 points between them while JJ Cassidy provided two cool finishes in either half to raise the green flag.
The famous old lighthouse in Fanad will have guided many a vessel through choppy waters over the years, but it looked like Aodh Ruadh's reserve championship title defence had hit the rocks as they shipped 1-4 in the opening 15 minutes in Killygordon. Sean Friel in particular was causing problems for the Ballyshannon defence, pointing in the third minute before drawing two frees soon after which were clipped over by Seamus Martin while Brendan McClafferty found space to put the Gaels four up by the 10th minute. A Ward free and a point from Dermot Slevin should have settled Aodh Ruadh but McClafferty pounced at the other end to fire past Karl O'Brien putting the Fanad men right back into the ascendancy once again.
Aodh Ruadh's previous outing saw them succumb meekly to Saint Naul's and it looked like it might be more of the same here, but there is nothing like the white heat of knock-out football to focus minds. It also helped having four recently crowned All-Ireland champions running through the spine of the team in the form of Ward, Slevin, Kerry Ryan and Packie McGrath. Ward was the standout performer of the Masters' winning quartet; firing over five points with his customary class during the remainder of the first half while Slevin probed for gaps and was involved in the move that saw Cassidy find the back of the net after good work by McGurrin.
Meanwhile, playing in a sweeping role in front of the full-back line McGrath's experience began to rub off on his younger partners either side, with Daniel Warnock in particular having a superb game making some telling interceptions and tackles. However, experience and nous will only get a team so far, you also need running power and the ability to carry the ball and with the likes of Eoin Doherty, Conal Sweeny and McGurrin, Aodh Ruadh had this in spades.
A Doherty score and three points from McGurrin saw the Ballyshannon men reach the break six points to the good on a scoreline of 1-10 to 1-4. McGurrin's ability to take on his man and ride tackles makes him a formidable opponent, particularly at reserve level, and he demonstrated this to the full as the second period swung into action reeling off three quality scores after Fanad had threatened to stage a mini revival through Ciaran Mac Giolla Colla and a Martin free. However, the Gaels began to run out of power and ideas as the game entered its final third and two from Friel and an Oisin McFadden point were the last of their scores.
At the other end Aodh Ruadh continued to keep the umpires busy and again it was Ward and McGurrin to the fore, knocking over two and three more points respectively after Anthony 'Waddle' Coughlin had found the mark. Sandwiched between that flurry of points was Ballyshannon's second major as Cassidy again fired coolly to the bottom corner following great work by the marauding Sweeny.
The Aodh Ruadh team was: Karl O'Brien; Adam Clarke, Patrick McCaffrey, Packie McGrath; Chris Goan, James O'Donnell, Dan Warnock; Kerry Ryan, Conal Sweeny; JJ Cassidy (2-0), Dermot Slevin (0-1), Eoin Doherty (0-1); David McGurrin (0-7), Anthony Coughlin (0-1), Michael Ward (0-8). Subs: Ronan Drummond for Packie McGrath HT, Odhran McGarrigle for JJ Cassidy; Ryan O'Brien for Adam Clarke; Mark O'Brien for Anthony Coughlin; Caolan Drummond for Dermot Slevin; JJ Goan for James O'Donnell; David McLoone, Raymie Granaghan, Niall McCready.Glenfin provides the venue for both our seniors and reserves semi-final outings this Saturday. The reserves will be taking on Red Hugh's at 3pm with the seniors locking horns with Cloich Cheann Fhaola at 5pm. We hope it will be a great day for the club and we urge all the Ballyshannon faithful to get down to Glenfin in big number and really get behind both the teams.
The under 13s are in action this Wednesday at 6pm when they take on Dungloe in a play-off for a place in the county quarter-finals. Venue details have yet to be confirmed.
The Bord na nÓg AGM will take place on Friday 1st November at 8pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. Anyone with an interest in underage football in Ballyshannon is warmly invited to attend.
Ladies
The minor ladies are in action this Sunday against Ardara in Father Tierney Park at 11am, players are to be at the dressing rooms for 10.15am.Aodh Ruadh girls claimed a first ever under 16 a grade county title with a deserved win at a damp Tir Chonaill Park on Sunday afternoon. Conditions made handling and shooting difficult, but Aodh Ruadh and Saint Naul's managed to serve up an enjoyable decider with good spells of quality football from both sides. The scores were slow to come and Aodh Ruadh lead by 0-3 to 0-1 at the end of the first quarter. The second quarter saw goals from Caitlin McGarrigle and Tia McFarland, but Saint Naul's got a goal just before half-time and were well in the hunt at 2-3 to 1-2. The third quarter saw both sides giving it everything, but with Saint Naul's missing a penalty and Caoimhe Hughes O'Brien hitting Aodh Ruadh's third goal there was six points between them going into the last 15 minutes. Ballyshannon outscored Mountcharles 1-2 to no score in that closing period to collect a fully-merited win and claim a historic county title for the club. It was an excellent team performance from the Aodh Ruadh girls. Áine Hill was superb between the posts and her kicks from turnover ball were noticeably effective in putting Aodh Ruadh on the attack. The full back line read play well all day, while the half backs threw up a wall which Saint Naul's had huge problems trying to penetrate. Midfielders Caoimhe Hughes O'Brien and Niamh Hughes were both excellent. Hughes O'Brien a truly masterful reader of the game while her centrefield partner harried relentlessly and was enthusiastic in the attack. Up front everyone took on their share of the responsibility, reflected in the fact that five of the starting forwards scored while Orla Keon was unlucky not to net what would have been goal of the season. Important also to recognise the important contribution of the substitutes, not just in this game, but across the course of the season. It takes a panel to win a county title and every single one of the 25 players in the squad played their role in bringing this title back to Ballyshannon, whether it was in games or ensuring high standards of competition training. They should take real pride in that contribution. We have a full match report and pictures up on aodhruadh.org.
The under 13 girls winning streak came to an end when they came up against a strong Dungloe side in the second last game of the league series. It was a game in which the Ballyshannon girls never really got on top. We looked fatigued and sluggish and we found it difficult to break down the opposition. On the occasions when we did find a way through we didn't capitalise on our opportunities and the break saw us going in well down to the home side. The second half began much brighter for us and we competed and won many of the individual battles across the pitch. Aodh Ruadh produced some fine patches of support play and defended heroically, but it wasn't Ballyshannon's day and we left ourselves too much work to do and Dungloe ran out comprehensive victors in the end. The Ernesiders are scheduled to play our last league game against Ardara this Saturday in Father Tierney at 3pm. It's a very important game and we would love to see a good home support to help us try and bring this over the line and reach the semi-final stages. Thanks to Dungloe for their hospitality, and a special thank you to the parents for driving and providing some welcomed vocal support on the sidelines.
Hurling
The under 16s season ended last Thursday with the A championship final against Setanta. Despite being played in horrendous conditions in Donegal town with torrential rain at times, both teams served up a thriller. The sides were level at half-time. There was great intensity in the second half and every ball was fought for ferociously. At the end of such a great game it was a pity there had to be a loser, but it was the lads from the Cross who won by the minimum, 2-9 to 0-14 . This young under 16 team had a great season, winning the league, the Ulster Óg Sport and the Seamus Grimes Trophy. This was a hard defeat for them to take, but there is no doubt they will come back even stronger in 2020.On Sunday we held the Aodh Ó Dálaigh under 12 hurling tournament in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. This tournament has been going since 1982 and honours the contribution the late Hugh Daly and his family have made to the GAA locally and throughout the county. The following clubs took part in this year's event Ballinascreen (Derry), Dungannon (Tyrone), Abbeyknockmoy (Galway), MacCumhaill's and Aodh Ruadh. The Galway lads were able to field two teams. The tournament was staged in a round robin format with loads of hurling for all the players taking part. At the end of the league section Ballinascreen and Dungannon qualified for the Aodh Ó Dálaigh Final and both Abbeyknockmoy teams met in the Primary League Final. The Aodh Ó Dálaigh Final was a classic game where two very skilful and committed teams tore into each other from the very moment the ball was thrown in. It was end to end stuff where the intense rivalry that exists between Derry and Tyrone was plain for all to see. It was without doubt one of the best games of hurling at any grade ever seen in Ballyshannon. At the full time whistle it was the Derry boys who claimed the title by five points. All teams made their way to the Aras where there was a feast of food for everyone prepared by the parents of our under 12 squad. John Rooney welcomed all to the presentation. He thanked all the clubs who had attended and thanked the Daly family for their support for the tournament. Hugh Daly's daughter Anne, a former primary school teacher spoke of the links between the local primary schools and the Aodh Ruadh club and underlined the importance of these links. She spoke of the recent successes of the Aodh Ruadh hurling teams at all grades. She then went on to present the Primary Shield to the Abbeyknockmoy captain she was assisted by her two nephews Ben and Joey. John Rooney thanked all who had helped organising the tournament. He thanked all who helped on the day especially the referees Peter Horan, Chris Kelly and himself. Michael Daly then spoke of his late father and how proud the Daly family are of this tournament and complimented all the teams on the quality of hurling on display at the tournament. He presented the runner-up medals to Dungannon before presenting the Aodh Ó Dálaigh Shield to the delighted joint captains from Ballinascreen. We have a great gallery of pictures from the tournament up on aodhruadh.org.
Pitch bookings
All remaining fixtures for October including blitzes and tournaments should be notified to Tom Daly without delay as planned maintenance work on the playing surfaces will commence this month as we approach the closed season.Confirmed pitch bookings this week are as follows.
Saturday
Father Tierney Park, 3pm. Under 13 ladies football league - Aodh Ruadh v Ardara
Sunday
Father Tierney Park, 11am. Minor ladies football league - Aodh Ruadh v ArdaraYouth Matters conference
CLG Dhun na nGall are hosting a Youth Matters conference on the health and well-being of our youth on Saturday, 12th October in Letterkenny IT. Jason Quigley will be guest speaker and a number of county players from both ladies and men's football and hurling teams will also be in attendance. The event will run from 9.30am to 2pm. Clubs are asked to send delegates from age groups 12 to 15, and 15 to 18. Each delegate will get a courtesy pack sponsored by O'Neill's. If interested in attending on behalf of Aodh Ruadh please contact club secretary Lisa McTernan.Building mental resilience
Thank you to Connect Mental Health for partnering with us to host an excellent talk on Bouncibility and building resilience by Psychologist Shane Martin on Thursday night in Ballyshannon's Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. This was an excellent event which saw a great turn-out from the local community.Diary dates
Dates have recently been confirmed for a couple of the club's big annual social events. The club dinner dance will take place on Saturday, December 7th, while the underage football awards evening for boys and girls takes place on Saturday, 26th October, in the Abbey Centre.Abbey Centre Bingo
Kathleen Flanagan of Belleek is the September bingo thousandaire after scooping the €1,000 jackpot, well done Kathleen. Mary Fletcher of Sligo won the stand-up game prize of €165. Celia Byrnes took a €40 line and a €150 house on the same game. The other €150 houses were shared. Winners of the €100 houses were Paddy Kane, Felicity Byrne, Della von Bock, Peggy Coughlin and Mary Gallagher. The snowball again survived so it rolls on to a mighty €1,450 on 51 numbers this week, it's sure to be won soon! Bingo as usual this Friday at the Abbey Centre at 9pm, books priced just €10.
- 8 October
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Football
Extra time couldn't separate Aodh Ruadh and Cloich Cheann Fhaola in Saturday afternoon's IFC semi-final at Glenfin. Conditions weren't exactly conducive to great football, but both side's served up an entertaining encounter which finished at 0-14 apiece. The sides went score for score over the course of the first half with Philip Patton, Oisin Rooney, Shane Gillespie and Diarmuid McInerney on the mark for the Ernesiders, but Cloich Cheann Fhaola nicked the last score of the half to take a slim one point advantage in at the break. Four more Philip Patton points kept Aodh Ruadh in the game over the course of the second half. Then as the game moved into added time Peter Boyle landed a free to put Ballyshannon into the lead, only for the Gaeltacht men to grab an equaliser three minutes later from another dead ball. Aodh Ruadh carried their momentum into extra-time and two points from Philip Patton and one from Oisin Rooney put them three clear. Cloich Cheann Fhaola owned the ball in the second half of extra-time though and went into a one point lead with two minutes left to play. It looked like curtains for Barry Ward and Philip O'Reilly's men, especially when Cloich Cheann Fhaola passed up a great goaling chance. However Aodh Ruadh got the lifeline their efforts deserved after a silly foul. Up stepped the superb Philip Patton to loft over the tricky late free to tie the game up and send this semi-final to a replay. Sean Taylor had an absolutely magnificent game for Aodh Ruadh and was a contender for man of the match. Elsewhere Nathan Boyle was a real a hive of positive energy and Philip Patton was cool when it counted. The Aodh Ruadh team and scorers were Peter Boyle (0-1f); Johnny Gallagher, Colm Kelly, Johnny Gethins; Shane Gillespie (0-1), Conor Patton, Sean Taylor; Cian Dolan, Eamonn McGrath; Nathan Boyle, Philip Patton (0-8, 7f), Oisin Rooney (0-3); Shane McGrath, Niall Murray, Diarmuid McInerney (0-1). Subs: Darren Drummond for Niall Murray 44m; Niall Murray for Johnny Gallagher 70m; Paddy Gillespie for Shane Gillespie 75m.The semi-final replay will take place on Wednesday evening in Convoy at 7.30pm. This is a huge game for the club. We know the massive prize on offer, and we know how narrow the differences are. With that in mind we would really urge everyone who can make it down to Convoy on Wednesday evening to make a special effort to make the trip and get behind our lads.
Earlier on Saturday the reserves bowed out at the championship semi-final stages against Red Hugh's. The weather was atrocious even at that early stage of the day, the rain not relenting at all during the reserve fixture. The first half started with two early David McGurrin points being answered by Red Hugh's frees to level it at 0-2 apiece. Further points from Michael 'Sticky' Ward and Dermot Slevin sent Aodh Ruadh in with a 0-4 to 0-3 lead. There was little separating the sides over much of the second half too, points from James O'Donnell and Conal Sweeny just about helping to keep Ballyshannon's noses in front. Heading towards the last ten minutes Sticky Ward pointed again to put the Ernesiders into a 0-7 to 0-6 lead. It was at this stage Red Hugh's went up through the gears and hit an unanswered 1-3 to book their place in the reserve decider. This brings the reserve season to an end. It has been a relatively successful one and we pay tribute to the players for their efforts and to the diligent work of Anthony 'Waddle' Coughlin and Aidan Murray in ensuring that Aodh Ruadh not only fielded consistently, but chalked up some impressive results over the course of the year. Not forgetting Anthony Donagher who provided first rate logistical support to the team.
The under 14 season came to an end with the 2019 Bakery Cup Final on Friday evening as Kian Duncan's team prevailed in a tight final against Cian McKenna's team. The game was nip and tuck the whole way and finished with a single point between the teams on a final score of 10-3 to 9-5. The semi-final teams who lost out were captained by Drew Ryan and Eoghan Kelly. Over the group stages and on Friday's finals the standard of football was very high and played with great sportsmanship. Many thanks to everybody who helped with organising this year's tournament and to those who brought goodies and helped with the hospitality during the presentations. Well done to all players who were involved.
The under 13 season came to an end last Wednesday when the lads lost out in their play-off against Dungloe by a narrow margin, 2-8 to 3-7. It was a hard fought game the whole way through, but perhaps the pivotal moment came ten minutes in. Aodh Ruadh had hit an early 1-2 to take a good lead, but Ted O'Donnell, who had been magnificent at full back, had to go off with an injured knee. Dungloe were able to rally and lead at the break 2-3 to 2-2. Ballyshannon battled manfully over the second half, but they just couldn't reel Dungloe back in. Barry Campbell was probably man of the match, capping a fine performance with two lovely goals. Oran Gillespie wasn't far behind with a big haul of points to his credit. Brothers Rian and Caolan McCauley did well, mopping up a lot of ball and counter-attacking with real purpose, while Jun Hui Lin was powerful once again around the centre of the field. Find of the season for the under 13s has been Killian Bradshaw who has really found his calling in nets. He was a great foundation to build the team on and a fine shot-stopper too. Thanks to Paul Gillespie, Diarmaid McInerney, David O'Donnell, Rory McGloin and Ken Monaghan for all their work with the team over the course of the season.
Ladies
Aodh Ruadh minors claimed a hard earned win against Ardara on Sunday morning in their last game of the league stages. Played 13-a-side with the going soft in Father Tierney Park, it was a challenging 60 minutes for both teams. There was little between the sides at any stage, Ardara getting a couple of early points, but Aodh Ruadh coming back with a Roisín Daly goal. Tia McFarland added a point shortly after, but Ardara continued to chip away and it took a brilliantly taken individual goal from Caoimhe Keon to send Aodh Ruadh in with a slight lead at the break, 2-2 to 0-6. Ballyshannon worked the bench over the second half, but still found it difficult to get on top of a determined and persistent Ardara side. Further points from Tia McFarland, Andrea McGlynn and Cáit Gillespie helped the Shamettes keep their noses in front, but there was just three points between the sides going into the last five minutes. It was only when Cáit Gillespie finished a well worked goal that Aodh Ruadh were really able to breathe easy. If finished Aodh Ruadh 3-6 Ardara 0-8, a results which puts the Shamettes into an A county semi-final. It was a real hard-working shift from the Ernesiders, Caoimhe Keon probably the stand-out performer on show. Her goal was superbly engineered and taken, and she flogged herself for the cause around the middle third. As ever the defence put in a massive amount of work. Ana Keon, Eva Moore and Síofra Hughes were really steady and helped keep Ardara chances to a minimum, especially in the second half. Bridín Maguire dealt well with the dropping ball and was clever with her kick outs. Caitlin McGarrigle and Andrea McGlynn were both effective links between defence and attack and McGlynn scored a great point. Up front Tia McFarland lead the line tirelessly. There is minor training this Tuesday from 4.30pm to 5.30pm.The under 13 girls game against Ardara has been rescheduled to this Saturday at 12 noon. The team train this Tuesday from 5.30pm to 6.45pm.
Pitch bookings
Confirmed pitch bookings this week are as follows.
Tuesday
Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh, 9am to 1pm. Cumann na mBunscol seven-a-side hurling.
Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh, 7.15pm. Under 10 boys Ballyshannon Shoe Company football league.
Wednesday
Father Tierney Park, 1.30pm. Under 16 colleges football - Coláiste Cholmcille v Saint Columba's College.
Thursday
Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh, 7.15pm. Under 10 boys Ballyshannon Shoe Company football league.
Saturday
Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh, 12 noon. Under 13 ladies football - Aodh Ruadh v Ardara.
Wednesday, 16th October
Father Tierney Park and Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh, 10am to 2pm. Senior Colleges Ladies Football Blitz - Coláiste Cholmcille, Magh Ene and Abbey VS.
Saturday, 19th October
Father Tierney Park and Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh, 10.30am to 3pm. Mick Shannon Memorial under 10 football tournament.Diary dates
The underage football awards evening for boys and girls takes place on Saturday, 26th October, in the Abbey Centre. The Bord na nÓg AGM will take place on Friday 1st November at 8pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. The club dinner dance will take place on Saturday, December 7th.Christmas Quiz
The annual club Christmas Quiz which has proved a great meeting point over the years for locals at home and away will take place in Dicey Reilly's on Friday, December 27th. This is a quiz format that everyone can enjoy. Organised by the club's Park / Development Committee the proceeds will help defray the heavy costs incurred in developing the new Fitness Trail / Walking Track at Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh which is being so well used since it was completed earlier this year.Abbey Centre Bingo
Last week's €400 bingo jackpot was shared by Anne Granaghan of Bundoran and Breege Barrett of Ballyshannon. The snowball again survived so rolls on to a massive €1,500 this week on 51 numbers. Karl O'Loughlin won the stand-up game prize of €130. Winners of the houses included Rita McGullion, Celia Byrnes, Sinead Watters, Monica Quinn, Eileen Maguire and Kevin O'Connor. Bingo as usual this Friday at 9pm at the Abbey Centre with a monster €3,200 prize fund. Books just €10.
- 15 October
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Football
Utter heartbreak in Convoy for Aodh Ruadh in the IFC semi-final replay against Cloich Cheann Fhaola last Wednesday night. Shane McGrath looked like he had clinched it with a fisted point three minutes into second half added time, only for the Gaeltacht men to race the ball up the other end put it in the back of the net. Aodh Ruadh tried to hit an instant response themselves, but were fouled on their way up the pitch and only allowed to float the ball into the box where it was won by Shane McGrath before Enda McFeely abruptly blew the final whistle to end Ballyshannon's intermediate ambitions for another year. The Ernesiders had been slow out of the traps in the first half, an early Cian Dolan point being their only response to an opening 1-3 from Cloich Cheann Fhaola. Shane McGrath and Philip Patton (free) put a better complexion on the Aodh Ruadh return, but the Falcarragh men hit back with two of their own to lead by five with half-time nearing. Thankfully Aodh Ruadh grabbed a few points before the break to pull themselves back into contention, Philip Patton (two frees) and Nathan Boyle on the mark as the sides turned around at Aodh Ruadh 0-6 Cloich Cheann Fhaola 1-5. After a cagey, strangely pedestrian first half, the second delivered much more action and incident. Cloich Cheann Fhaola kept their score board ticking over, but Aodh Ruadh were playing with much more fluency now. Their first score of the half was an outrageous long range free from Peter Boyle, which was followed by a Patton free. Diarmaid McInerney then landed two absolutely sublime points to make it all square at 0-10 to 1-7 with 41 minutes played. The Blues were given a handy lead score when Shane Gillespie was very harshly blown for a throw ball, but McInerney came back with another beauty of a point to level matters once more. As the game moved into the final quarter Peter Boyle thrust Aodh Ruadh into the lead for the first time with another impeccably struck placed ball, before Philip Patton pointed from play to put two in it. As had been the nature of this semi-final right over the two games, blow was answered by blow and Cloich Cheann Fhaola hit a three point salvo to take the lead. Not to be outdone, Oisin Rooney intelligently fisted over to level the game on 60 minutes and when McGrath fisted another point deep into added time it looked like Ballyshannon were back in the intermediate decider for a second year in succession. The sporting Gods had other plans though. Cloich Cheann Fhaola hit a quick kick out and caught Aodh Ruadh exposed two on one at the back and Peter Boyle was powerless to stop Darren McGeever's shot. Game over moments later and Aodh Ruadh bereft after coming within touching distance of a final berth. Peter Boyle was excellent as ever between the posts and took two inspirational points. Johnny Gallagher, Johnny Gethins and Shane Gillespie played some mighty stuff in the defence. Cian Dolan and Eamonn McGrath enjoyed a right battle in the middle third with their opposite numbers. Up front Diarmaid McInerney and Philip Patton were cool and consistent and took a number of crucial scores. Nathan Boyle was one of those who really rose to the demands of the game and set the tempo for Ballyshannon. The Aodh Ruadh team and scorers were. Peter Boyle (0-2f); Colm Kelly, Conor Patton, Sean Taylor; Niall Murray, Johnny Gallagher, Shane Gillespie; Cian Dolan (0-1), Eamonn McGrath; Diarmaid McInerney (0-3), Philip Patton (0-5, 4f), Nathan Boyle (0-1); Johnny Gethins, Oisin Rooney (0-1), Shane McGrath (0-2). Subs: Paddy Gillespie for J Gallagher 58m; Darren Drummond for Diarmaid McInerney 60m. This marks the end of the season for our seniors and so thank managers Barry Ward and Philip O'Reilly and the back room of Gregory Sweeney, Ronan Matthews, Leona Burke and Brian McGuinness for the huge amount of work they put into the team this year. Thanks to the players also for giving us a lot of high points in the year, even if they didn't necessarily get the rewards their efforts might have merited. Credit also to the mighty numbers of supporters also who made the trip down to Convoy on Wednesday evening. As a wise man once said, tiocfaidh ár lá!Ladies
Aodh Ruadh minors put several years of hurt behind them to record one of the club's biggest wins this season. They travelled to O'Donnell Park to take on Saint Eunan's in the county semi-final. Right from an ill-fated under 12 clash a number of years previously, this squad had failed to get the better of the Letterkenny girls. On Sunday they threw off the shackles though and played the game of their lives. Aodh Ruadh approached the game in a calm, measured fashion and steadily picked off points over the course of the first half with Caoimhe Hughes-O'Brien, Cáit Gillespie, Aoibhínn McGarrigle and Grainne Maguire all on the mark. However Saint Eunan's showed their reserves of skill and talent and engineered two goals to go in leading 0-7 to 2-3. Ballyshannon altered very little in the second half, and keeping faith with their approach started to bear great dividends. A Cáit Gillespie goal three minutes in brought Aodh Ruadh level and set the scene for a super half of football with both sides going at it blow for blow. There were points from Caoimhe Keon and Cáit Gillespie and two more well taken goals, but as the game ran into the last few minutes it looked like Saint Eunan's had just snatched the win with a late major. However, in a twist which had echoes of the last minute drama in Convoy the preceding Wednesday, Aodh Ruadh won possession from the kick out and Cáit Gillespie, Grainne Maguire, and Lucy McGlynn linked well to set up Aoibhínn McGarrigle to net the winner and send the Ballyshannon support into raptures. A brilliant team display from the Ernesiders. Bridín Maguire pulled off some superb saves and did well on her kick outs too. The back line of Síofra Hughes, Ana Keon and Eva Moore were solid as ever. The central eight got through an immense amount of work and the quality of Aodh Ruadh's play in this quarter probably made the key difference. Up front Tia McFarland and Roisín Daly worked themselves to the bone. The county final against Moville is expected to take place this Sunday.The under 13 girls season ended with a 0-4 to 0-13 defeat to Ardara in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh on Saturday afternoon. The visitors finished both halves strongly to win well enough in the end. Aodh Ruadh got the game's first score through a well-taken Orlaith Gallagher point. Ardara got the next two scores, but Orlaith pointed again to make it all square with 18 minutes played. In the run up to half-time Ardara hit four unanswered points to lead at the turnaround. The second half again saw the Ernesiders opening the scoring, Jodie Meade splitting the posts with a neat shot. Ardara replied with a point of their own, but when Dairín Sweeny popped over it looked like a exciting second half contest was in prospect. It didn't quite pan out like that with Ardara picking off points steadily over the remainder of the half. The homesters cause wasn't helped by the loss of Orlaith Gallagher to a nasty arm injury midway through the half. We wish Orlaith the very best for a speedy recovery. Aodh Ruadh battled hard, but found the going difficult against an Ardara side which was just that bit physically bigger in most areas of the pitch. Aisling Patton was absolutely outstanding between the posts, and her clean sheet was entirely deserved. Great kick outs too in what was a player of the match performance. The defence was really well anchored by Orlaith Toland and Fódhla Sheerin and ensured Ardara never ran away with the game. Dairín Sweeny, Lauren Foy, Ava Doherty and Pearl McHugh worked hard around the middle. Orlaith Gallagher seemed to be everywhere on the pitch and took two fine points. Up front Jodie Meade, Cádhla Dolan and Hannah McGuinness never stopped trying to create space in the attack. This marks the end of the under 13 season. Thanks to the players for their efforts over the course of the season and to Sandra Sheerin, Antoin McGloin and Thomas O'Brien who put so much into the group this year.
Club Mass
There will be a special Mass in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh this Saturday at 5pm to mark the 25th anniversary of 1994 county championship victory. This Mass will also celebrated in memory of all deceased members of the club.Scór na nÓg
We are looking for people to represent Aodh Ruadh in Scór na nÓg this year. Scór aims to promote Irish culture and tradition in areas such as music and drama and we're hoping the club will be represented in as many disciplines as possible. It's open to any club member under 17 and the Donegal semi-final will be held this year on Sunday 10th November in the Bluestack Centre in Drimarone. We are looking for acts to represent the club in Céilí Dancing, Solo Singing, Recitation, Ballad Group or Historical Presentation. The deadline for entries is 22nd October, so if anyone's interested or has any queries, you can contact Eamonn Martin Maguire at eamonnmartinmaguire@gmail.com.Pitch bookings
Confirmed pitch bookings this week are as follows.
Tuesday
Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh, 7.15pm. Under 10 boys Ballyshannon Shoe Company football league.
Wednesday
Father Tierney Park and Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh, 10am to 2pm. Senior Colleges Ladies Football Blitz - Coláiste Cholmcille, Magh Ene and Abbey VS.
Thursday
Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh, 7.15pm. Under 10 boys Ballyshannon Shoe Company football league.
Saturday, 26th October
Father Tierney Park and Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh, 10.30am to 3pm. Mick Shannon Memorial under 10 football tournamentMaintenance works
After October 26th and with all competitions completed, maintenance work will commence on all of our playing fields which have carried a huge volume of games and coaching activity over the past 10 months. Thanks to everyone involved in working to facilitate all of this activity and present our grounds well. Refurbishment work on our buildings after the long season commenced this week and access to changing rooms will be restricted.Diary update
County star Stephen McMenamin has been revealed as our special guest for the underage football awards evening on Saturday, 26th October, in the Abbey Centre. The Bord na nÓg AGM will take place on Friday 1st November at 8pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. The annual Aodh Ruadh Christmas Quiz takes place in Dicey Reilly's on Friday, 27th December.Abbey Centre Bingo
Last week's €400 bingo jackpot was won by Ann O'Neill of Belleek. The snowball again survived so rolls on to a massive €1,550 this week on 51 numbers. Nuala McDermott and Margaret McKinney shared the stand-up game prize, bagging €65 each. The €150 house winner was Ann McGloin with the €100 house prizes going to Barney Cullen, Teresa Herron, Mary Toland, Patrick Boyle, and Mary Donagher. Angela Gaye, Avril O'Brien and Mary Donagher claimed €70 prizes. Bingo as usual this Friday at 9pm at the Abbey Centre with a monster €3,200 prize fund. Books just €10.
- 22 October
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Ladies
Pride of place this week goes to our minor ladies. Aodh Ruadh backed up their county semi-final victory over Saint Eunan's last Sunday with a relentless display of dynamic, attacking football in the decider to bring a first ever county minor county title to the banks of the Erne. Ballyshannon travelled to Killygordon to take on a Moville side who were strong favourites and looking to win their sixth successive minor county title. Aodh Ruadh started like a side who meant business though and never let up throughout the full 60 minutes. First half goals from Tia McFarland (2) Orla Keon and Cáit Gillespie helped the Ernesiders to a 4-4 to 0-2 half-time lead. Further goals from Cáit Gillespie (2) and Gráinne Maguire saw Aodh Ruadh take the county title on a scoreline of 7-10 to 1-8. A triumvirate captaincy of Cáit Gillespie, Ana Keon and Andrea McGlynn had the privilege of being the first Ballyshannon ladies to raise the minor trophy. This was the very definition of a team performance. Bridín Maguire made at least three outstanding saves and was precision itself from her kick-outs. The full back line, lead by the teak tough Ana Keon with Síofra Hughes and Eva Moore either side, were immensely reassured. Lucy McGlynn and Caitlin McGarrigle not only tackled impeccably but also attacked with élan. Eilish Gallagher was disciplined and authorative in her duel. The centre field pairing of Caoimhe Keon and Caoimhe Hughes-O'Brien simply worked themselves into the ground, playing smart, intelligent football too. No one could have marked Cáit Gillespie the form she was in, while Andrea McGlynn and Orla Keon supplied mobility and constant support off the shoulder. The full forward line gave their Moville opposite numbers a torrid time of it. Equipped with her secret weapon, the Pettigo holy water, Tia McFarland was like a magnet for the ball and used it to devastating effect, while Gráinne Maguire couldn't put a toe wrong and Aoibhínn McGarrigle is becoming an even more complete footballer with every game she plays. Every sub who came on added something to the team when they came in, and Aodh Ruadh were going as hard at minute 60 as they were in the first. Ballyshannon now look forward to Ulster football, the first time the club has participated in provincial competition since the under 16 boys in 2011. They entertain the Cavan champions in Father Tierney Park on Sunday 3rd November in the Ulster Ladies Club MFC quarter-final. We have a full match report and some pictures on aodhruadh.org.Football
Aodh Ruadh are in under 21 championship quarter-final action against Saint Eunan's this Saturday. Throw-in is at 1pm in Father Tierney Park and we hope to see a strong Ballyshannon support out for this one.Hurling
Aodh Ruadh took a squad of 26 under 12s to a tournament in Dungannon last Saturday. The boys played four games against local side Eoghan Ruadh, Saint Paul's (Antrim), Ballinascreen (Derry) and Ballygalget (Down). All the games were very close, and while the lads lost all four games there was never more than three points in any of the games. It was a great experience for the boys to play against some of the top teams at this age group in Ulster. This brings the curtain down on the season for these lads, they are a very enthusiastic bunch who worked really hard all season. It's very encouraging to see such big numbers at this age group. Well done to Paul Sheridan, Mark Sheerin and Gregory Gallagher who worked hard with the lads all season.Duck Race
The Duck Race finally gets under starter's orders this Saturday at 11am at its usual venue of McKenna's Brook in East Port. There will be loads of prizes on the day with a free raffle too. The county winning minor and under 16 teams will also be there with their trophies. All very welcome to attend this fun fund-raiser.Underage awards evening
We are looking forward to welcoming county star Stephen McMenamin as special guest for our underage football awards evening this Saturday in the Abbey Centre. All male and female players from minor to under 8 are warmly invited to attend what is always one of the highlights of the year. Proceedings will be getting underway at 7.15pm sharp and so it is essential that all are present and seated for 7pm.Pitch bookings
Confirmed pitch bookings this week are as follows.
Tuesday
Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh, 7pm. Under 10 boys Ballyshannon Shoe Company football league.
Wednesday
Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh, 7pm. Aodh Ruadh under 21 team booking.
Thursday
Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh, 7pm. Under 10 boys Ballyshannon Shoe Company football league.
Friday
Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh, 7pm. Bundoran under 21 team booking.
Saturday
Father Tierney Park and Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh, 10am to 12.30pm. Mick Shannon Memorial under 10 football tournament.
Father Tierney Park, 1pm. Under 21 Football Championship quarter-final - Aodh Ruadh v Saint Eunan's.Access restrictions on Saturday
With ten teams to be accommodated on Saturday no vehicles will be admitted to Father Tierney Park. Parking is available kerbside and in vicinity of Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. This is a health and safety measure and no exceptions will be permitted.Dinner Dance developments
The annual club Dinner Dance will take place on Friday, 6th December. In something of a new departure, this year we will be in the Sandhouse Hotel, Rossnowlagh, proceedings getting under way at 7pm sharp. The meal will be followed our awards presentations with music by The Show Offs bringing down the curtain on the evening's festivities. Tickets, priced €25, are ONLY available online through the Aodh Ruadh page on Klubfunder.com and are strictly limited to 160. It has been a successful year for the club on a number of levels so please book early to avoid disappointment.Diary dates
The Bord na nÓg AGM will take place on Friday 1st November at 8pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. The Ladies AGM will take place on Saturday 9th November at 7pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. The annual Aodh Ruadh Christmas Quiz takes place in Dicey Reilly's on Friday, 27th December.Christmas gear discounts
There are big discounts available on Aodh Ruadh club gear on the O'Neill's website next weekend. From Friday 25th to Monday 28th October there is 20 percent off all purchases. Head along to the Aodh Ruadh page on the O'Neill's website to check out the range of quality gear available and pick up some bargains next weekend. Perfect Christmas stocking fillers.Scór na nÓg
We are looking for people to represent Aodh Ruadh in Scór na nÓg this year. Scór aims to promote Irish culture and tradition in areas such as music and drama and we're hoping the club will be represented in as many disciplines as possible. It's open to any club member under 17 and the Donegal semi-final will be held this year on Sunday 10th November in the Bluestack Centre in Drimarone. We are looking for acts to represent the club in Céilí Dancing, Recitation, Ballad Group or Historical Presentation. The deadline for entries is Tuesday 22nd October, so if anyone's interested or has any queries, you can contact Eamonn Martin Maguire at eamonnmartinmaguire@gmail.com.Winter coaching workshops
Donegal Games Development Manager Aaron Kyles has organised a series of six coaching workshops for youth and adult coaches. The series commences on Monday November 4th with a Roger Keenan of Ulster GAA delivering a workshop on handling and passing at the Aura Centre, Letterkenny. This is an interactive practical indoor / outdoor workshop where club coaches at youth and adult level will be taken through the coaching points of the various handling and passing skills. Coaches will be exposed to various kicking techniques, hand passing as well as drills and activities to improve these fundamental skills. Please visit eventbrite.ie to register for this workshop. See the Aodh Ruadh CLG Facebook page for information on all six coaching workshops.1994 anniversary
There was a large attendance in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh last Saturday for the mass to mark the 25th anniversary of our 1994 county championship victory. The celebrations continued in Melly's afterwards where the craic and stories flowed freely. On Sunday it was great to see that exceptional team being recognised on the county's blue riband day. Wonderful memories to have, hopefully the present generation of footballers can add to that store in coming seasons.Monster Halloween Bingo
The October Big Bingo will be a Halloween special with a huge €4,300 jackpot this Friday night. The snowball is a monster €1,600 this week whilst the spooktactular €1,000 jackpot must also be won. There'll be spot prizes for the best of the fancy dressed so feel free to dust off the old costumes! Sure to be a great night, with books priced just €15 or get a book and a half special for just €20. First game at 9pm.Abbey Centre Bingo
Last week's €400 bingo jackpot was won by Bridie McGurn of Mulleek. The €150 stand-up game was split three ways. There was no winner of the €1,550 snowball so it rolls on to €1,600 this week. Winners of the €100 houses included Tanya McCullagh, Ann Kilfedder, Patsy Gallagher, Gene Brolly and Mark Granaghan, whilst €70 houses went to Jean Murray, Ellen Maguire and Kevin O'Connor.
- 29 October
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Football
Aodh Ruadh under 21s were just second best against a very complete looking Saint Eunan's on a showery Saturday afternoon in Father Tierney Park. The Letterkenny men also showed the benefit of their first round victory over Naomh Columba, their passing much crisper and their shooting exemplary. Aodh Ruadh meanwhile came into this quarter-final clash without a competitive test and that showed. On Connie Doherty's final whistle Saint Eunan's were worthy winners on a scoreline of 0-8 to 3-17. Aodh Ruadh's young team battled manfully, but physicality and ring rust told against the team in some important sectors. Conal Sweeny and Shane Gillespie tried hard in an over-worked defence, while Nathan Boyle gave great example out around the middle of the field. Dylan Gallagher had his moments in the attack, but lacked for support at times. We have a full report and pictures from the game up on aodhruadh.org.The under 10 season came to a close with the Mick Shannon tournament on Saturday. It was a fabulous morning of football with pitches in action in the Park, the School Field, and Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. We had teams from Aodh Ruadh, Ardara, Four Masters, Naomh Bríd, Bundoran and Erne Gaels taking part. Aodh Ruadh A team took the honours in the A competition, with Four Masters B team victorious in the B Shield competition, and Naomh Bríd B team winning the C Cup competition. Thanks to all the clubs who attended and our referees on the day, Diarmaid McInerney, Val Murray, Eamonn O'Donnell, Stephen Ward and Paddy Kelly. We have a brilliant gallery of images from the tournament up on aodhruadh.org. With this being the end of the season we thank the under 10 management and team for all their hard work over the course of 2019.
Ladies
Our minor ladies are in Ulster quarter-final this Sunday. Cavan champions Killygarry will be the guests at Father Tierney Park with the game throwing in at 2pm. This is the first time the club have had a home tie in an Ulster Championship competition in many a long year, so we'd love to see a really big crowd out to get behind the Ballyshannon girls for this one.AGM season
The Aodh Ruadh Club AGM takes place on Sunday 1st December in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh at 5.30pm. Club members can obtain nomination forms and motion forms by contacting club secretary Lisa McTernan. The deadline for submitting both these forms is Friday 22nd November. All committee officers are notified that the deadline for reports is also Friday, 22nd November.The Bord na nÓg AGM will take place on Friday 1st November at 8pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. The committee would like to invite all parents and guardians of our underage players to the AGM as well as anyone with an interest in football in Ballyshannon. The Bord na nÓg committee would also like to take this opportunity to thank all our managers and coaches who have dedicated their time to our underage players this year, to the parents for all your help and support throughout the year and to the players themselves for their commitment to their respective teams.
The Aodh Ruadh Ladies AGM will take place on Saturday 9th November at 7pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. Ladies football in the club is in general good health at the minute, and that is thanks to the work of managers, mentors, officers, parents, guardians and, most importantly our brilliant players. We will look back over the efforts of the past year and make plans for 2020. We invite anyone with an interest in the Ladies game in the area to come along on the night.
National and Local Draw
Tickets are currently being distributed for the annual National Club Draw. This is effectively three draws in one and tickets are €10 each. There are fantastic prizes in all three draws. The full schedule includes a car, all-Ireland final tickets, hotel packages, and the chance to win one of three tickets for the Donegal County Board raffle for a house in Dublin. See the aodhruadh.org for full details of the prizes available. Proceeds from this draw are ring fenced to build a new playing surface on Father Tierney Park in 2020. This year marks the 65th anniversary of the opening of the ground. This is a major project, approved at club AGMs in recent years as our most important undertaking. Our Park / Development Committee has already secured €100,000 in grant aid towards the project costs and the draw is a critical part of providing matching funding. Initially, we need as many people as possible taking one or two books of five tickets to sell. Any club member can provide tickets or contact anyone of the Draw Committee of Tom Daly, William Doogan, Conal Gallagher, Gerard Ferguson, Paul Gillespie, David McLoone, Sarah Daly, Philip McLoone and Michael Daly. For those not living locally who wish to support the Father Tierney Park project, tickets can be purchased on the Aodh Ruadh page on Klubfunder.com. The Draw Committee will meet this Thursday at 8pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh and members wishing to collect tickets for sale are asked to come along at that time.Underage football awards presentation evening
The closing event of the underage football season, the presentation evening, took place last Saturday in an Abbey Centre packed to capacity. Presentations were made to all male and female footballer aged 18 and under by county star Stephen McMenamin. Stephen was then grilled by master of ceremonies Michael Daly before giving the audience some guidance and advice on developing and improving their game. After that, individual awards were made. The winners were as follows. U8 girls: Player's player: Leia Roper; Most improved player: Arwen Killalea; U8 boys: Player's player: Senan Ward; Most improved player: Sean Travers; U10 girls: Player's player: Rachel Gillespie; Most improved player: Aodhbha O'Donnell; U10 boys: Player's player: Eoghan Gallagher; Most improved player: MJ Ward; U11 boys: Player's player: Sean O'Neill; Most improved player: Finn Doogan; U12 girls: Player's player: Lauren Foy and Jessica O'Mahoney; Most improved player: Laura Crossan; U12 boys: Player's player: Barry Campbell; Most improved player: Liam Doogan; U13 girls: Player's player: Fódhla Sheerin; Most improved player: Dairín Sweeny; U13 boys: Player's player: Oran Gillespie; Most improved player: Jun Hui Lin; U14 girls: Player's player: Mollie Travers; Most improved player: Michaela McCaffrey; U14 boys: Player's player: Drew Ryan; Most improved player: Oisin McGlinchey; U16 girls: Player's player: Lucy McGlynn; Most improved player: Chantelle Timoney; U16 boys: Player's player: Aaron Neilan; Most improved player: Matt Gillespie; U18 girls: Player's player: Cáit Gillespie; Most improved player: Eva Moore; U18 boys: Player's player: Mark McGlynn; Most improved player: Rory Gettins. The team of the year awards were then made with the under 16s being crowned boys team of the year, and the county winning minor team taking the ladies honours. The final award of the night was for the Bord na nÓg personality of the year and the worthy, if surprised, recipient was Peter Boyle. That brought the curtain down on a great celebration of underage football in the magnificent surrounds Abbey Centre. We have a massive gallery of pictures from the night online at aodhruadh.org.Dinner Dance developments
The annual club Dinner Dance will take place on Friday, 6th December. In something of a new departure, this year we will be in the Sandhouse Hotel, Rossnowlagh, proceedings getting under way at 7pm sharp. The meal will be followed our awards presentations with music by The Show Offs bringing down the curtain on the evening's festivities. Tickets, priced €25, are ONLY available online through the Aodh Ruadh page on Klubfunder.com and are strictly limited to 160, with a significant number having already been snapped up. If anyone is having difficulty with the online purchasing, they should give Lisa McTernan a call on 086-2338636. It has been a successful year for the club on a number of levels so please book early to avoid disappointment.Scór na nÓg
We are looking for people to represent Aodh Ruadh in Scór na nÓg this year. Scór aims to promote Irish culture and tradition in areas such as music and drama and we're hoping the club will be represented in as many disciplines as possible. It's open to any club member under 17 and the Donegal semi-final will be held this year on Sunday 10th November in the Bluestack Centre in Drimarone. We are looking for acts to represent the club in Céilí Dancing, Recitation, Ballad Group or Historical Presentation. The deadline for entries is Tuesday 22nd October, so if anyone's interested or has any queries, you can contact Eamonn Martin Maguire at eamonnmartinmaguire@gmail.com.Winter coaching workshops
Donegal Games Development Manager Aaron Kyles has organised a series of six coaching workshops for youth and adult coaches. The series commences on Monday November 4th with a Roger Keenan of Ulster GAA delivering a workshop on handling and passing at the Aura Centre, Letterkenny. This is an interactive practical indoor / outdoor workshop where club coaches at youth and adult level will be taken through the coaching points of the various handling and passing skills. Coaches will be exposed to various kicking techniques, hand passing as well as drills and activities to improve these fundamental skills. Please visit eventbrite.ie to register for this workshop. See the Aodh Ruadh CLG Facebook page for information on all six coaching workshops.Duck Race
The going was decidedly fast for the Duck Race on Saturday morning with McKenna's Brook in East Port flowing at a lively pace. The attendees certainly seemed to enjoy the proceedings despite the chill in the air. When all the races had been completed the prize winners were as follows: First €100 - Emma Travers; second €50 - Colleen Whelan; and third €30 - Faye Gillespie. The ladies committee thank everyone for the support for this fund-raiser.Abbey Centre Bingo
We had a great night at the Halloween big bingo with some really getting in the spirit of the fancy dress. Joan Granaghan is the latest thousandaire, taking the €1,000 jackpot back to Bundoran with her. Donna Meade of Ballyshannon took the €180 stand-up prize. Winners of the €150 houses included Jean Murray and Tom Brennan, with Celine McGrath, Noelle Gillen, Teresa Campbell and Doreen Patton among the €100 house winners. The snowball had no claims so rolls on to €1,650 on 52 numbers this week and is sure to be won soon. Bingo as usual this Friday night at the Abbey Centre with a huge €3,400 prize fund. First game at 9pm, books just €10.