Club Notes Archive - 2023
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April
- 4 April
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Football
Aodh Ruadh got their league campaign off to the perfect start with a hard fought win over Kilcar in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh on Sunday afternoon. There were mild spring conditions and a good crowd in Munday's for the game. True to form, both sides played on the counter and that made for low scoring fare. The Ernesiders had the better of it in a nip and tuck first half. Kilcar pointed straight from the throw-in, but five minutes later Matt Gillespie opened his side's scoring with a sliced, low-trajectory effort. Gillespie then showed good awareness to bat the long ball in down for Shane Delahunty to pop over. That ninth minute score put Ballyshannon into a lead they never really looked like relinquishing. Diarmaid McInerney hit two cracking points from play in the 11th and 16th minutes, before Kilcar registered for the first time in 24 minutes to make it 0-4 to 0-2. That's how the scores stayed up to the interval, in a game where the massed defences were very much on top. In the second half Darren Drummond bulled through to pump over the opening score three minutes in, but that was rapidly followed by two points for the visitors as they enjoyed one of their best spells of the game. Once again it was Diarmaid McInerney who took command as he connected with a beautiful shot to raise the white flag. Michael McKenna registered a minute later as Aodh Ruadh stretched their lead out to a goal for the first time. Kilcar and Nathan Boyle swapped scores before a foul on Darren Drummond gave McInerney the opportunity to point his first free of the day with six minutes remaining. Kilcar then hit their second purple patch with three points in the last five minutes of normal time taking them back to within a point of the hosts. Nerves were starting to jangle a bit, but Aodh Ruadh settled those in emphatic fashion. David Dolan and Darren Drummond swept like wrecking balls through the Kilcar defence to create an easy palm in for senior debutante Jack Gallagher. The 1-9 to 0-8 result was probably a fair reflection on exchanges, and the two league points were merited for the Erne men. Darren Drummond was immense in the final third, while the Dolan axis in midfield were outstanding, particularly when the game was in the melting pot. Minor debutantes Eoghan Kelly, Shane Delahunty and Jack Gallagher all put in great shifts, while the more mature maestro Diarmaid McInerney continues to thrill with his spectacular shootting. The Aodh Ruadh team and scorers were as follows: Peter Boyle; Callum O'Halloran, Eamonn McGrath, Eoghan Kelly; Michael McKenna (0-1), Darren Drummond (0-1), Niall Murray; David Dolan, Cian Dolan; Diarmuid McInerney (0-4, 1f), Shane Delahunty (0-1), Jack Gallagher (1-0); Eddie Lynch, Nathan Boyle (0-1), Matt Gillespie (0-1). Subs: Colm Kelly for Shane Delahunty 48 minutes. Check out aodhruadh.org for a great gallery of pictures from the game.Our reserves had too much for a game Kilcar side in Sunday's curtain-raiser in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. A collector's item goal by the newly appointed team captain, Dan Warnock, helped his side to a four point interval lead. Kilcar battled hard in the second half, and they raised a green flag to bring themselves in touching distance of the hosts. However, the Towney men were to be finally undone by a sublime team goal. Aodh Ruadh pieced together a lovely passing move which cut through the Kilcar defence and was finished with a delicious lob by Gary Carty which dropped just under the crossbar. That came five minutes from the end and saw Aodh Ruadh record a 2-11 to 1-10 opening day win. Dan Warnock, Gary Carty and Conor Foy provided real quality in the defensive sector, while Luke Carr was exceptional in the second half against his former club, shoring up defence and breaking lines. In middle third the height, strenght and dynamism of Tiernan Flood Dolan, Colm McGloin and Odhran McGarrigle was a bit too much for Kilcar to handle. This trio gave the attack a great base to work from with Cathal Kelly picking off some nice scores under pressure. It was a big day too for young Cian McKenna who made his adult debut for the the club. The Aodh Ruadh team was as follows: Karl O'Brien; Conor Foy, Luke Carr, Daire Gallagher; Darragh Flood Dolan, Dan Warnock, Gary Carty; Tiernan Flood Dolan, Colm McGloin; Oisin Kerr, Senan Rooney, Odhran McGarrigle; Harry Howarth, Cathal Kelly, Damian Weber. Subs used Caelan Drummond Cian Barden, Cian McKenna. We have our first gallery of pictures for the team this season live now on aodhruadh.org.
Next up for Aodh Ruadh is the long trip to Falcarragh to take on Cloich Cheann Fhaola on Sunday. The reserves get the action under way at Páirc with the seniors taking the field at 3pm.
The Aodh Ruadh minors had an entertaining battle with Four Masters in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh on Monday evening. Ballyshannon played towards the town end in the first half and picked up where they left off against Saint Naul's last week. Eoin Cassidy got the game's first point five minutes in, and Tommy Clyne followed that up a minute later. Donegal Town levelled matters with two points in the tenth minutes. Parity didn't last long though as Killian McPhelim did a great job of winning the ball in and breaking past his man before burying his shot past the keeper. As the game moved into the second quarter Eoin Cassidy flighted over his second of the game. Four Masters raised a white flag in response, but Tommy Clyne cancelled that out with interest, bombing over two monster points from distance. Four Masters rallied in the five minutes before the break, hitting three points, but Barry Campbell also registered, and that ensured Aodh Ruadh took a one goal lead in at the break, 1-6 to 0-6. The second half saw Four Master with the benefit of the slope and they made good use of it over the course of the second half. They hit five unanswered points in the opening ten minutes of the second half before a Barry Campbell free on 42 minutes finally broke Aodh Ruadh's duck. Four Masters responded with another three points before Aodh Ruadh broke the run of scores in the 46th minute. Eoin Cassidy added another two points three minutes later, by which time Aodh Ruadh trailed by 1-10 to 0-15. At this stage the game was back in the melting pot, but it was the visitors who kicked for home and they landed the final three scores of the game to take the points on a scoreline of 1-10 to 0-18. Corey Sheridan had a fine game between the posts, making a superb save and getting his kicks away well. Rian McCauley was excellent, especially with his reading in the first half. Eoin Doogan also did a lot of good work, while Tommy Clyne got up to take some wonderful points. Barry Campbell was a lively influence in the middle and final thirds, with Eoin Cassidy putting in a good shift in the attack. The Aodh Ruadh team was as follows: Corey Sheridan; Rian McCauley, Jun Hui Lin, Liam Doogan; Eoin Doogan, James Monaghan, Tommy Clyne; Caolan McCauley, Garvey Meade; James Ward, Barry Campbell, Oran Gillespie; Ted O'Donnell, Killian McPhelim, Eoin Cassidy. Subs: Gareth Brennan, Joe Gibbions, Donagh Kelly, Morgan McNamee, Rory Cullen, Ben Daly. Next up for the minors is the short trip over Finner Hill to take Bundoran on Monday 10th April, throw-in at 7pm.
Underage pre-season training is now well under way. We would especially like to invite new-comers to attend our sessions, why not come and give it a go, in a fun and inclusive environment. The following information is for boys football only. All boys are asked to bring their own ball to training. These are available from Ballyshannon Shoe Company. Hall sessions will cost €3 per session, to cover costs. Memberships can be paid on Klubfunder.com, or membership forms are available from the managers. UNDER 5 BOYS (Born in 2018 only please) Fridays in the Mercy Hall, from 6pm to 6.45pm, Manager - Donal Gallagher (086-8652936). Anybody with boys in this group, please text Donal and he’ll add you to his group which will keep you updated regarding training and team activities. All boys born in 2018 are more than welcome to come along and enjoy our fun sessions. UNDER 7 BOYS (Born 2016 and 2017) Fridays in the New Hall, from 6pm to 7pm, Managers - Ivan O'Mahony (086-1714701) Martin Gallagher (087-2460196) Gerard Ferguson (086-8296047) and Dermot Slevin (087-9583235) UNDER 9 BOYS (Born 2014 and 2015) Fridays in the New Hall, from 7.15pm to 8.15pm, Managers - Philip O'Reilly (086-8955141) and Niall McCready (087-2115790).
Hurling
Aodh Ruadh's next senior hurling league game is at home to Dungloe this Good Friday, 7th April at Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh with a 4.30pm throw-in.Thursday evening sees the start of the league for our minor hurlers as they make the trip to Dungloe. Best of luck to Dáithí, Danny and all the lads for the 2023 season. Training will continue on Tuesday as usual.
Our under 15s are also starting their 2023 campaign this week with a home game against Naomh Aodhan, from Enniskillen at home on Wednesday evening in their first outing in the Táin Óg league, throw in at 7pm. Training continues and information on this is available in the team WhatsApp groups.
Training for our juniors - the under 7, under 9 and under 11s - will take a short hiatus for Easter Sunday to allow the chocolate eggs to be eaten in peace! Training will be back again in Munday's field the following Sunday, April 16th at 11.45am. Contact under 7 and under 9 coach, John Larkin, for more details on 086-1076883.
Ladies football
Aodh Ruadh made their return to the top flight of ladies football in some style on Sunday morning. They travelled to the home of the senior county champions for this season curtain-raiser. Termon were very impressive in the first half, moving the ball slickly and finishing opportunities clinically. They had three points on the board before Cáit Gillespie opened Aodh Ruadh's account in the fifth minute. Eimear McMahon followed that up with a free a minute later, but Termon came storming up the pitch and found the net to make it 1-3 to 0-2 seven minutes in. Then, in the space of a helter skelter ninth minute, Cáit Gillespie landed a point, Termon hit their second goal, and then Gillespie hit back with a goal of her own to make it 2-3 to 1-3. The next 20 minutes were a bit more sedate, with Termon perhaps edging possession. Eimear McMahon popped a free in the 16th minute, but Termon converted three dead balls in a row in the run up to half-time to leave the score board reading Termon 2-6 Aodh Ruadh 1-4 at the interval. The second half saw the Shamettes playing down the slight incline. They started with a divine effort from Terri Gallagher who dissected the uprights from an acute angle two minutes in. Termon hit an instant response, but Aodh Ruadh came back again, Caoimhe Keon was going down on the ball in the area, but as she did so a Termon boot went in and the referee pointed to the spot. The nerveless Eimear McMahon crisply smashed the shot to the keeper's right to make it 2-5 to 2-7, Termon still holding a slight lead. Three minutes later, it was an action replay. Again Keon was surging into the area, this time she was met with a bit of a clumsy tackle and again the referee awarded the penalty. This time McMahon went to the right with her kick and thrust her side into the lead for the first time in the game. She added a point from play directly from the kick out as Aodh Ruadh started to grow in belief all over the pitch. Termon pointed in the 41st minute, but two points from McMahon, one from play and one from dead ball kept daylight between the teams. That gap was stretched further when Cáit Gillespie drove through Termon defence and switched the ball across the face of goal to Caoimhe Keon who placed a lovely finish into the bottom right hand corner. That made it 4-8 to 2-8 with 47 minutes on the clock. Termon looked like they might get a route back into the game when they were awarded a penalty, but Roisin Maguire got a strong hand to the shot to put it over for a point. Termon followed up with another point in the 52nd minute, but another Eimear McMahon score with four minutes left sealed the deal for the Erneside girls. It finished 4-9 to 2-11 and the big travelling Ballyshannon support greeted the final whistle with a great roar. It was a fantastic display by all the team to secure this memorable win. Roisin Maguire made two outstanding saves. Anna Rafferty and Sara Gallagher's defensive experience proved priceless, while injury clearly hasn't done Caitlin McGarrigle's game any lasting harm. Aoibhínn McGarrigle, Síofra Hughes and Orla Keon worked the middle third relentlessly all game. Up front Cáit Gillespie, Eimear McMahon and Caoimhe Keon really stood up to the mark. Elsewhere Niamh Hughes made a great contribution on her introduction. Next Sunday sees the reserve ladies return to centre stage in Division 3 as they travel to Towney to take on Kilcar at 10am.The under 16s recorded a very impressive victory on the opening day of the league against Ardara in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh last Tuesday. Ballyshannon set out their stall early, getting out in front for the ball, tackling tenciously whenever they lost possession, and looking to get forward and support the player on the ball. Cadhla Dolan had two points in the first couple of minutes before Ardara got off the mark. Andrea Moore, sniped over a lovely point in the fifth minute before further points from Cadhla Dolan, Ciara Larkin, Roise Conlon and Hannah Doherty. That left Aodh Ruadh leading by 0-8 to 0-1 before Ardara responded with a break away point in the 16th minute. Despite a lot of pressure the Shamettes only mustered one further point before the break, with the inevitable Cadhla Dolan doing the honours. The second half saw Aodh Ruadh picking up where the left off with a well-taken Ciara Larkin point five minutes in settling her side down. A minute later Cadhla Dolan finally netted the goal Aodh Ruadh had been threatening all game, and added a point shortly after to make it 1-11 to 0-2. Ciara Larkin hit the next two points before Laoise Foy struck a superb score from an acute angle. Ardara picked off a point in reply, but the final say went to Aodh Ruadh and Emma O'Donnell who coolly slotted home her side's second goal on 56th minute to put the seal and a great team performance. There were great displays right across the pitch. Joint captain Andrea Moore was phenomenal and put in a tireless effort. Megan Murphy made a number of timely interceptions in defence. Aoife Travers and Jessie O'Mahoney were at the heart of a lot of good link up play in the middle third, while up front Cadhla Dolan, Ciara Larkin and Katie McGowan caused endless bother. This Tuesday the girls are at home again, with Saint Naul's the visitors to Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh, throw in at 6.15pm.
Under 6 and under 8 training will return on Tuesday, 18th April, from 5pm to 6pm at Coláiste Cholmcille. Team management are looking forward to seeing the girls after the Easter break. We would love to see new players coming along and enjoying the craic and picking up skills in a fun and supportive setting. Anyone who would like to have their daughter involved, or who has questions, can contact Sarah Drummond on 083-8648342. This year we will be asking girls to bring their own soft touch football. These are available in Ballyshannon Shoe Company locally, or in other sports stores. We would like to Thomas Gallagher and TG Carpentry for sponsoring match balls for both teams.
Camogie
Following discussion at last month's club executive committee meeting, Aodh Ruadh is canvassing interest in camogie in the area. We plan to organise a meeting for anyone interested in playing, coaching, managing or being a committee member in the near future. Anyone who might have an interest in playing a part in reviving camogie in the area is asked to register this with club secretay Lisa McTernan on 085-1061456 ahead of the meeting.Good luck Jason
The club extends best wishes to senior footballer Jason Granaghan who leaves this Tuesday on deployment to Syria with the Army.Big Bonkers Bingo news!
This week we have confirmed a top prize in our Bonkers Bingo of a trip for two to PARIS! As announced last week, Bonkers Bingo is coming to Aodh Ruadh on Saturday, April 22nd. Enjoy a fun night out while supporting your club. Bonker's Bingo has all the tunes, bingo madness, confetti drops, crazy prizes you love, and much more! The event takes place at The Great Northern Hotel, Bundoran at 7.30pm. We have a limited time early bird special offer of just €25 for our first 50 players! Book your tickets now at www.eventbrite.ie/e/566407709707. Then let people know you're going at https://www.facebook.com/events/741788381065779/. Strictly over 18s only.Last One Standing
Congratulations are extended to the four players who made it through to the very end of the Juvenile Hurling Committee's annual Last One Standing competition with a 100 percent record. The lucky winners are Liam McGrath, Peter Campbell, Sean Gallagher (Inver) and Damien Keane (Dublin). They will share equally in the €250 prize fund and be permitted a certain level of smugness in their footballing knowledge! A huge thank you to our faithful sponsor, Mr G's, all who supported this year's competition, and to all our invaluable sellers throughout the county, further afield and even overseas.Ballyshannon Bingo
Well done to this week's winners at the Ballyshannon Bingo. Teresa Hannon had a serious run of luck on the night, scooping €500 the jackpot, a house and line prize. The houses prizes were won on the evening by Eoin Duffy, Teresa Campbell, Gerard Cullen, Karen Coughlan and Carmel McCadden, Teresa Hannon, Eileen McIntyre, Kay Kilvarry and Marie Ward, Mary Ferguson, Marian McDermott. The line winners were Maureen Coughlan, Laoise McGee, Mary Coughlan, Anne Patterson, Celine McGrath, Margaret Meehan, Margaret O'Connor, John McFadden, Molly Kerrigan, Teresa Hannon and Josie Lynch. The half-time stand-up game prize was shared between Noeleen O'Brien and Anne Gallagher. The €1,000 snowball survived on the nght and rolls on to next week as we play for another big prize fund. Bingo returns to the Abbey Centre this Tuesday again at the usual time of 8.30pm. Doors open 7.45pm. Please spread the word, come along and bring a friend as we continue to build up our bingo again.
- 11 April
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Football
Aodh Ruadh made it two wins from two outings to take an early lead at the top of the ACFL Division 1 table alongside Gaoth Dobhair and Naomh Conaill. There was a swirling breeze in Cloughaneely which didn't especially favour either side, but which did make for tricky conditions. Ballyshannon made the better of them in the first half to take in a 1-6 to 1-3 lead at half time, Eoghan and Colm Kelly combining to craft the Aodh Ruadh three pointer. Cloich Cheann Fhaola are a strong, resilient side though, so the second half was always likely to be a tough slog, and so it proved as the Gaeltacht men continued to nibble at the visitors' lead. In the end though the Ernesiders had the hard work done, and two further white flags in the second half proved sufficient to earn the points as it finished Aodh Ruadh 1-8 Cloich Cheann Fhaola 1-6. It was a good outing for Nathan Boyle who finished with two points, while Jack Gallagher had a very strong second half. Philip Patton came on in the second half to make a welcome return to the colours for 2023. Further back Cian Dolan was very strong in the middle of the park, while in the defence Shane Delahunty built on his debut last week with a strong display here. Calum O'Halloran also caught the eye with a number strong carries up the pitch. A final word for the referee, Stephen Doherty of Red Hugh's who did a great job officiating this hard-fought contest.The Senior Development squad put in a battling performance in the curtain raiser down in Cloughaneely to come away with the two points. Conditions were tricky and Aodh Ruadh could have been out of sight in the opening exchanges. They were playing with the breeze, but the final pass just deserted the Ballyshannon lads in front of goal with two glorious goal chances being passed up. Aodh Ruadh had the better of the first half without really managing to put the Gaeltacht men away and led 0-6 to 0-3 at the break. Aodh Ruadh were hit with a sucker punch in the opening seconds of the second half with a dangerous high ball bouncing awkwardly allowing Paul Sweeney to fire home to level proceedings. Cloich Cheann Fhaola then turned over the resulting kick-outs to put two between the sides. Aodh Ruadh never faltered though with Gary Carty, Aidan Sweeny, Michael Ward and Colm McGloin driving forward from the back and creating scores for Sticky Ward and Robbie Murphy, while Damian Weber was a constant threat in the Erneside attack. Gary Carty got on the end of a fine move to palm home to restore Aodh Ruadh’s lead. However, Cloich Cheann Fhaola were pushing hard with the backing of the breeze and the evergreen Sean Maguire to the fore. As they chased a levelling score they were caught on the counter and the visitors fed Damian Weber to score a sublime goal with a deft finish to the bottom of the net as the tie finished 2-12 to 1-10. For Aodh Ruadh, Gary Carty and Michael Ward set the platform for the win with strong running from the back line. Aidan Sweeny on his adult debut was a classy operator at wing back. Credit also to Damian Weber finishing with 1-5 on a day where conditions were tough for forwards. The Aodh Ruadh team and scorers were as follows: Aaron Cullen; Conor Foy, Michael Ward, Gary Carty (1-0); Darragh Flood Dolan (0-1), Dan Warnock, Aidan Sweeny; Tiernan Flood Dolan (0-1), Colm McGloin (0-1); Senan Rooney, Damian Weber (1-5), Oisin Kerr; Harry Howarth, Sticky Ward (0-2), Robbie Murphy (0-2).
Next Sunday sees Aodh Ruadh hosting Malin in the third round of the league. The reserves get the action under way at Páirc Aoidh Ruadh at 1.30pm with the seniors taking the field at 3pm.
The minors bounced back from last week's defeat to Four Masters with a good win over a lively Bundoran outfit on Monday evening. Bundoran got off to a great start with their centre forward picking off two points before Ballyshannon opened their account in the 12th minute with a Barry Campbell goal. That was created by great work by the elusive James Ward, who slipped past a few tackles before finding Campbell who drilled a shot in at the keeper's near post. In the 16th minute Aodh Ruadh raised their second green flag with an Eoin Cassidy free being flicked to the net by Tommy Clyne. Clyne immediately followed that up with a wonderful booming effort. Bundoran got an answering point, but Eoin Cassidy cancelled that out, clipping over after one - twoing from a 45. The hosts had a late rally before the break though, hitting 1-1 to go in trailing by just two points 2-2 to 1-4. The Seasiders got the first score of the new half after eight minutes to make it a one-point game, but Ballyshannon responded quickly, a silky move by Barry Campbell releasing Eoin Cassidy to drive to the net. Cassidy then added a point to make it 3-3 to 1-5 with 41 minutes played. Bundoran continued to battle and fired over another two points, but Aodh Ruadh began to pull away and a goal from Joe Gibbions helped decide matters in their favour as it finished 4-5 to 1-7. James Ward was outstanding for Aodh Ruadh, and was at the heart of a lot of his side's best attacks. Barry Campbell was also a very creative force, while Tommy Clyne and Eoin Cassidy gave the home defence a lot of trouble. James Monaghan, Caolan McCauley and Morgan McNamee all featured strongly in a disciplined display by the Ballyshannon rearguard. Next Monday the minors will be hosting Naomh Bríd in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh.
Our under 15s got into competitive action in Ardara on Saturday, with the Southern section of the Féile competition. The Ballyshannon lads started slowly against a strong Dungloe team, losing their opening game. Aodh Ruadh then recovered well, playing much better football, defeating Na Rossa and Four Masters B. Those results left the Ernesiders sitting second in the group, and qualifying to play Four Masters A in the semi-final stages. Aodh Ruadh played well in spells, but Four Masters proved too strong. The squad return to Ardara this Saturday to play them in a challenge match with the league commencing on Friday, 28th April.
Bank Holiday Monday saw Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh hosting 108 players from five clubs for an under 9 Easter festival of football. Aodh Ruadh fielded three teams with big squads from Ardara, Melvin Gaels, Naomh Bríd and Erne Gaels also in attendance. The tournament saw each team getting 80 minutes of football over the course of two hours. The competition was very professionally organised by Niall McCready, Barry O'Neill and David McLoone with Gerard Ferguson, Sticky Ward, Oran Gillespie, James Monaghan and Barry Campbell refereeing and keeping the games moving smoothly. All the players were presented with a medal at the end and, once again, the parents and guardians played a blinder with the post-match refreshments. William Doogan and Barry O'Neill both spoke at the presentation ceremony, thanking the parents and guardians, match officials, as well as the visiting clubs for making it such a great day of football. The action on the pitch was a great treat for the visiting American tourists who called in to catch some local culture!
Hurling
It has been a trying time for Aodh Ruadh with wins hard come by over the past season or so, but they gained a great fillip on Good Friday with a hard-earned win over Dungloe in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. The visitors had a sprint start with 1-1 on the board before Aodh Ruadh got going. Rory Cullen opened their scoring with Senan Rooney following up with a free. Dungloe continued to dominate possession though, and Ballyshannon were reliant on Senan Rooney frees to stay in contention as the sides turned around with the Gaeltacht men leading 1-7 to 0-7. Aodh Ruadh started with more steel in the second half and points from Senan Rooney, Martin Larkin and Shane Brady had them level. A coolly taken shot from Brady then propelled Aodh Ruadh into the lead for the first time as the game moved into the final quarter. Dungloe hit back hard, shooting three points to retake the lead with the clock running down. The Ernesiders were in no mood to give up though, and Rory Cullen restored parity before Senan Rooney raked through the tired Dungloe rearguard and slammed to the net. Immediately after that, Shaman of the sliotar, Shane Brady then flicked to the net to put the seal on a tremendous victory for Aodh Ruadh, the final score board reading 2-13 to 1-10. Kenzie Ayres; Adam Rami, Dan Downey; Gareth Sheerin, Cian McKenna, Deva Ayres; Senan Rooney (1-7, 6f), Ryan McCormack; Rory Cullen (0-2), Martin Larkin (0-2), Shane Brady (1-2); Stephen Connolly, Ciaran Rami. Substitute: Kieran Daly for Kenzie Ayres half-time. Next up for Aodh Ruadh in the Grand Canal Spring League is the visit of Buncrana to Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh on Friday 21st April at 8pm.Congratulations to Cian McDonald, Tommy Clyne and Jun Hui Lin on representing Aodh Ruadh on the Donegal minor panel which overcame Meath last Saturday. Next up in the Celtic Challenge Competition for the lads and the team is Mayo this coming Saturday, venue to be confirmed.
Our under 17s are disappointed not to have started their competitive season yet. The first round was a BYE and unfortunately their second match was postponed. Hopefully the season will finally get under way this Thursday when we welcome Burt to Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. Throw in is at 6.30pm and it would be great to see lots of home support.
The under 15s are looking forward to continuing their excellent form in the Táin Óg competition when they welcome Saint Mary's of Carrick-on-Shannon to Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh this Wednesday. The lads had a great first outing against Naomh Aodhán from Enniskillen last week. All boys on the panel got a chance to play and the score board operator was kept very busy, with a tight competition for top scorer between Corey Sheridan, Joey Daly, Tomás Keown, Shay Winters and Shaun McGarrigle to name but a few!
Training for our juniors - the under 7, under 9 and under 11s - will resume after the Easter break this Sunday at 11.45am in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. As always, hurls and helmets are available for any newcomers who would like to get involved. Contact John Larkin for more details on 086-1076883.
Ladies football
It was a first defeat of the season for our adult ladies teams in Towney over the weekend. The reserve squad had another early start on Sunday for a 10.30am throw-in down in Kilcar. The elements were very much a factor in the first half with a strong breeze driving down the field from the sea. Kilcar had six points on the board after eight minutes with Ballyshannon struggling to get the ball past half way. Their cause wasn't helped when they lost Annalisa Rabbitte in the tenth minute, but the defence played really well when down to 14, and only conceded one further point in this period. Síofra Hughes then did really well to fire over a point into the wind and just before half-time Gráinne Maguire split the posts with a marvellous effort to leave the half-times scores at Kilcar 0-8 Aodh Ruadh 0-2. The visitors looked strongly positioned for the second half, with the elements in their favour. Kilcar have won all their games so far this season though, and started the second half with a valuable goal just a minute in after a free dropped short on the wind. They followed that up with a point four minutes later as Aodh Ruadh struggled to find their stride. Annalisa Rabbitte, helped set them on their way with a good point which was followed by three points from Bridín Maguire. As the game moved into the final quarter Niamh Hughes clipped over a nice shot to make it 1-9 to 0-7 and it looked like the Ernesiders would reel in the hosts. Kilcar knuckled down in the final quarter and hit 1-1, while Aodh Ruadh could only muster two further points from Bridín Maguire as the homesters finished deserved winners on a scoreline of 2-10 to 0-9. Gráinne Maguire put in a great shift in defence and took her score really well. Annalisa Rabbitte got on a lot of good ball and Síofra Hughes worked hard, while up front Amanda Mahon battled to the end and Bridín Maguire scored well and was unlucky not to get a penalty shout. The adult ladies have a free weekend, with the following weekend seeing both teams in action. Sunday, 23rd April sees the seniors travelling to take on Na Dúnaidh, while the reserves will be entertaining MacCumhaill's in Pairc Aoidh Ruaidh.The under 16s suffered a reversal against Saint Naul's last Tuesday. The sides were evenly matched over the course of a competitive first half. The visitors opened the scoring with Ciara Larkin levelling matters in the fifth minute. A Saint Naul's point was then cancelled out by a Cadhla Dolan free. In the tenth minute Aodh Ruadh pushed into the lead after good work from Ciara Larkin set up Cadhla Dolan to slot home the game's first goal. The sides then exchanged frees before the Mountcharles girls levelled matters with a goal of their own in the 16th minute. Cadhla Dolan edged Ballyshannon in front again five minutes later, but Saint Naul's sent over three unanswered points before the break to take a two-point lead into the interval. Aodh Ruadh had the benefit of the slope in the second half, but it was to be the visitors who pushed on. They hit 1-2 before Cadhla Dolan opened her side's second half account in the 34th minute. Saint Naul's hit a further 1-2 over the course of the third quarter to lead by 3-9 to 1-6. Aodh Ruadh failed to rally in the last quarter and, although Rachel Gillespie and Cadhla Dolan added sporadic scores, it was Mountcharles who ran out convincing 5-11 to 2-8 winners. It wasn't a great outing for the Aodh Ruadh girls, but Cadhla Dolan put in a Trojan effort in all sections of the pitch, Jessica O'Mahoney and Emma O'Donnell tried hard in the middle third and Katie McGowan also put in a great shift. Best wishes to joint captain Tara Gallagher who was injured in the game. Aodh Ruadh now travel to Donegal Town on Tuesday evening to take on a Four Masters side who will be on a high after defeating Ardara last week.
A number of our underage girls have also been active on the inter-county scene in the past week. Ciara Larkin and Cadhla Dolan were both in action for Donegal in a challenge match against Sligo in Ballintra on Good Friday. Good luck to the team as they prepare to take on Armagh in the Ulster Championship in Killygordon this Saturday. Meanwhile Aodh Ruadh had no fewer than five girls in action as they took on Fermanagh and Antrim in Roslea on Saturday. Well done to Ellen Monaghan, Rachel Gillespie, Cadhla Gillespie, Laoise Foy and Emma O'Donnell who helped Donegal to two good wins.
Well done also to our own Lauren Foy who made her international debut at the under 16 home Four Nations Tournament at the National Basketball Arena. Lauren impressed too, with strong performances in the tournament.
Under 6 and under 8 training will return this Tuesday from 5pm to 6pm at Coláiste Cholmcille. Team management are looking forward to seeing the girls after the Easter break. We would love to see new players coming along and enjoying the craic and picking up skills in a fun and supportive setting. Anyone who would like to have their daughter involved, or who has questions, can contact Sarah Drummond on 083-8648342. This year we will be asking girls to bring their own soft touch football. These are available in Ballyshannon Shoe Company locally, or in other sports stores. We would like to Thomas Gallagher and TG Carpentry for sponsoring match balls for both teams.
Camogie
Following discussion at last month's club executive committee meeting, Aodh Ruadh is canvassing interest in camogie in the area. We plan to organise a meeting for anyone interested in playing, coaching, managing or being a committee member in the near future. Anyone who might have an interest in playing a part in reviving camogie in the area is asked to register this with club secretay Lisa McTernan on 085-1061456 ahead of the meeting.Big Bonkers Bingo news!
On top of our main prize of a trip for two to Paris, we can now confirm there will be Sea Sessions tickets up for grabs in our Bonkers Bingo! Bonkers Bingo is coming to Aodh Ruadh on Saturday, April 22nd. Enjoy a fun night out while supporting your club. Bonker's Bingo has all the tunes, bingo madness, confetti drops, crazy prizes you love, and much more! The event takes place at The Great Northern Hotel, Bundoran at 7.30pm. We have a limited time early bird special offer of just €25 for our first 50 players! Book your tickets now at eventbrite.ie. Then let people know you're going on Facebook!Ballyshannon Bingo
Well done to all winners at last Tuesday's bingo. Mary Faith won the Jackpot game. The house winners were Aaron Darcy, Margaret O’Connor, Keith White, Caroline Murphy, Charlie White (with a line), Mary Donagher, Laoise McGee and Molly Kerrigan, with Rosaleen O’Brien and Donna McGowan sharing game seven. The line winners were Madeline Gibbions, Rosaleen O’Brien, Josephine McDonagh, Mairead Dunlop, Leslie McNeely, Anne Herron, Regina Dolan, Sean Coughlin, Margaret Gilmartin, Eoghan McCadden and Jimmy Monaghan. Patsy Quinn was the last man standing to take the €125 pot from the Stand Up game. The €1,000 Snowball escaped another week so we add another number this week, as we again play for a prize fund of up to €2,600. We look forward to seeing you all again on Tuesday night. Door open 7.45pm for an 8.30pm start. As always, please spread the word, come along and bring a friend!
- 18 April
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Bonkers Bingo is almost here!
The hair appointments are booked, the lucky charms locked and loaded, and the anticipation is mounting ahead of Bonkers Bingo this Saturday in the Great Northern! Bonker's Bingo has all the tunes, bingo madness, confetti drops, crazy prizes you love, and much more! There'll be a complimentary bubbly on arrival as you enjoy a fun night out while supporting your club. On top of our main prize of a trip for two to Paris, we can now confirm there will be a €250 cash prize, Ballyshannon Folk Festival tickets as well Sea Sessions tickets! The action gets under way at The Great Northern Hotel, Bundoran at 7.30pm. We have a great a group discount available. You can buy five or more tickets for just €20 each. Contact the club direct to avail of this discount on 087-2799855. You will need to get your skates on though as tickets are selling out fast now. Don't delay, Book your tickets now at eventbrite.ie. Then let people know you're going on Facebook! There will be a taxi running from Ballyshannon to the Great Northern Hotel and back for just €6 per person courtesy of Kevin Byrne Coaches. This event is strictly over 18s only.Football
An out of sorts Aodh Ruadh succumbed to their first defeat of the season on Sunday when goals made the difference for a visiting Malin side in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. It all started very promisingly, with Cian Dolan winning the throw in and finding Nathan Boyle to thunder over a spectacular opener with the game just seconds old. After that the game quickly settled into defence and counter, with Malin doing the better job of retaining possession. They got off the mark with a free four minutes in and then got a real shot in the arm when Matthew Byrne broke through and fired home a low effort to the corner of the net. Ballyshannon rallied well though. Two points from Diarmaid McInerney were followed by a marvellous score from Darren Drummond to make it 0-5 to 1-1 with half-time beckoning. The Inishowen men were then favoured with a stroke of fortune as a shot for a point dropped into the back of the net to give them a surprise interval advantage. The Ernesiders rose to their task once more and two minutes into the new half David Dolan leathered over to put the minimum between the sides before Diarmaid McInerney restored parity with a free. The sides swapped points over the remainder of the third quarter to make it 0-9 to 2-3, McInerney and Nathan Boyle with the Ballyshannon scores. The last quarter was thin on scores, but the crucial ones went Malin's way. A Chris McLaughlin free nudged them into the lead in the 49th minute, and that saw Aodh Ruadh lay on strong pressure as they searched for an equaliser. Unfortunately, the homesters were caught badly exposed on the counter five minutes from time and Conor O'Neill was able to chip home into an empty net from 25 metres out. Malin then added another point in added time to decide the matter definitively, with a Philip Patton point too little too late to salvage anything for Aodh Ruadh as it ended 3-5 to 0-10. Malin deserve credit for making the most of their chances while Aodh Ruadh will be frustrated with the result and the performance. Darren Drummond again was the focal point for many of Aodh Ruadh's most penetrating moves while elsewhere Diarmaid McInerney was superb, eking out scores in a ferociously congested Malin rearguard while Nathan Boyle simply took route one with two sumptuous scores. The Aodh Ruadh team and scorers were as follows: Peter Boyle; Kyle Murray, Eamonn McGrath, Eoghan Kelly; Michael McKenna, Darren Drummond (0-1), Niall Murray; David Dolan (0-1), Dian Dolan; Diarmaid McInerney (0-5, 4f), Shane Delahunty, Jack Gallagher; Eddie Lynch, Nathan Boyle (0-2), Matt Gillespie. Subs: Cian Rooney for Matt Gillespie 42 minutes; Mark McGlynn for Eoghan Kelly 49 minutes; Donagh McInerney for Jack Gallagher 49 minutes; Philip Patton (0-1) for Shane Delahunty 54 minutes. We have a gallery of pictures from the game live now on aodhruadh.org.The Aodh Ruadh reserves turned on the style in the second half to make it three wins from three in the Sunday's curtain-raiser in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. The first half was a case of the sides feeling their way into things. Colm McGloin opened the scoring with a nice shot six minutes in. Malin were level a minute later, but Aodh Ruadh retook the lead in the 11th minute and never relinquished it. It came courtesy of Odhran McGarrigle who used his strength to get in and goal and scuff the ball to the net, the ref sensibly letting the goal stand rather than call a penalty. Two points from Philip Patton were followed by a Sticky Ward classic to make it 1-4 to 0-1. The defence were making their mark too though, with superb blocks by Darragh Dolan and Ryan Keenaghan denying Malin shots. Aodh Ruadh added further points from Philip Patton and Colm McGloin, but Malin finished the half with a late 1-2 salvo to trail by just three points at the interval. The sides were slow to settle in the second half, and there were six minutes gone before the first score arrived. It proved decisive as great work from Tiernan Dolan created a chance for Robbie Murphy and he smashed home a precision shot to give Malin a real mountain to climb. Murphy added a point in the middle of a run of three scores from the boot of Philip Patton to make it 2-10 to 1-3 with 48 minutes played. Sub Conal Bradshaw then connected beautifully with a shot to split the posts before Odhran McGarrigle and Ryan Geoghegan swapped frees. Aodh Ruadh then finished with a real flourish, as Luke Carr dug out a 40 60 ball in defence and set Ballyshannon on their way up the pitch. The ball came to Colm McGloin still a fair bit out from the posts, but he dropped the shoulder to ghost past a tackler before firing home a rasper to put the seal on a well-deserved victory for the homesters. A great team display from the Ernesiders as the final score board finished reading Aodh Ruadh 3-12 Malin 1-4. Aaron Cullen distributed superbly from between the sticks, while Aidan Sweeny caught the eye with some strong carries. Colm McGloin put in a man of the match display with plenty of honesty combined with no small amount of style. Odhran McGarrigle and Tiernan Dolan were completely on top in the middle third, while up front Philip Patton was unmarkable with Robbie Murphy and Darragh Dolan also making life tough for the visitors. The Aodh Ruadh team were as follows: Aaron Cullen; Ryan Keenaghan, Michael Ward, Aidan Sweeny; Gary Carty, Dan Warnock, Colm McGloin (0-2); Tiernan Dolan, Odhran McGarrigle (1-1, 1f); Sticky Ward (0-1), Philip Patton (0-6, 1f), Darragh Dolan; Damian Weber, Oisín Kerr, Robbie Murphy (1-1). Subs: Luke Carr for Ryan Keenaghan 38 minutes; Harry Howarth for Oisín Kerr 38 minutes; Conal Bradshaw (0-1) for Sticky Ward 44 minutes; James Gallagher for Philip Patton; 48 minutes; Stephen McGrath for Gary Carty 54 minutes. Check out aodhruadh.org for a gallery of images from the game.
Aodh Ruadh will have a hiatus now with the next fixtures set for Saturday, 29th April when Ballyshannon will be travelling to the Ballybofey to take on MacCumhaill's in the fourth round of the league.
The minors league clash with Naomh Bríd has been rescheduled for this Friday at 6.45pm in Ballintra.
Hurling
Next up for the Aodh Ruadh senior hurlers in the Grand Canal Spring League is the visit of Buncrana to Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh this Friday at 8pm.Well done to our three minor hurlers, Tommy Clyne, Jun Hui Lin and Cian McDonald on their participation in last Saturday's minor intercounty clash between Donegal and Mayo. Donegal gave a great fighting display in Convoy, but were unlucky to lose out in the end on a scoreline of 1-12 to 1-8.
Following on from a disappointing week of game cancellations both our under 15s and under 17s are hoping to see competitive action this week. The under 17s are due to travel to Killygordon to take on Setanta on Thursday evening and the under 15s make the trip to Manorhamilton to play Glencar / Manorhamilton in their second Táin Óg fixture. Best of luck to all the lads and the management teams.
Training continues for all ages - information available in the team WhatsApp groups or for the juniors, from John Larkin at 086-1076883. As always, newcomers are welcomed and encouraged and can be provided with hurls and helmets.
Ladies football
Aodh Ruadh hosted Ulster champions Derrygonnelly for an enjoyable challenge on Friday afternoon. Both sides enjoyed good passages of football over the course of a useful work-out. Niamh Hoey did very well in goals, while further out the pitch Ciara Caldwell and Caitlin McGarrigle did well against a lively Harps attack. In the attack Sophie O'Connor and Niamh McGloin both got on some good ball. This Sunday sees the seniors travelling to take on Na Dúnaidh, while the reserves will be entertaining MacCumhaill's in Pairc Aoidh Ruaidh, both games throwing in at 10.30am.The under 16s scheduled league meeting with Four Masters was postponed due to the bad weather and an unplayable Tir Chonaill Park. The sides will go again this Thursday, 18th April at 7pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. The rescheduled fixture against Four Masters will then take place on Friday 21st April in Donegal Town at 5.45pm.
This Sunday 23rd April sees our under 15 side travelling to Féile in Ardara. Aodh Ruadh will be up against sides from Dungloe, Ardara, Saint Naul's, Naomh Conaill and Gaoth Dobhair. The action gets going at 5pm and an evening of high-quality football is very much in prospect.
A big well done to our under 10 girls who made their Croke Park debut last week! Huge thanks all the managers, mentors, parents and guardians who helped out on the day, and to the LGFA for organising this wonderful event.
Boot exchange open for business
Under 6 and under 8 training continues this Tuesday from 5pm to 6pm at Coláiste Cholmcille. We would love to see new players coming along and enjoying the craic and picking up skills in a fun and supportive setting. Anyone who would like to have their daughter involved, or who has questions, can contact Sarah Drummond on 083-8648342. This year we will be asking girls to bring their own soft touch football. These are available in Ballyshannon Shoe Company locally, or in other sports stores.Camogie
Following discussion at last month's club executive committee meeting, Aodh Ruadh is canvassing interest in camogie in the area. We plan to organise a meeting for anyone interested in playing, coaching, managing or being a committee member in the near future. Anyone who might have an interest in playing a part in reviving camogie in the area is asked to register this with club secretay Lisa McTernan on 085-1061456 ahead of the meeting.Ballyshannon Bingo
Rosaleen O’Brien was the big winner last Tuesday winning the jackpot and the game 10 double line. The White family on their holidays to the area won a house and three line prizes! The house winners were Mary B Kerrigan, Carla White, Leanne McGrath, Mary Clancy, Willie Deacon, Packie Johnston, Marie Ward, Marie Gallagher, and David Purcival. The line winners were Breege Kelly, Keith White, Joe Darcy, Mary Patton, Kelsie Granaghan, Marian O’Connell, Emily White, Mary McGonigle, Hugo White, Bridie Patterson and Majella Gettins. The €1000 Snowball survived another week so rolls on to 48 numbers this week, as we again play for over €2,500. Eyes down Tuesday night at 8.30pm at the Abbey Centre, doors open at 7.45pm. Please spread the word, come along and bring a friend! Books only €10.
- 25 April
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Football
Aodh Ruadh will return to league action on Sunday, 7th April when Gaoth Dobhair will be the guests at Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. Meanwhile it was confirmed on Monday evening that Aodh Ruadh are entering a third team in the Division 4 league, a great tribute to the interest in the club at the present time.The minors had a busy few days last week with two away games on the agenda. The first was on Friday evening in Ballintra against a lively Naomh Bríd outfit. Aodh Ruadh had the breeze in the first half, but struggled to make it count and the sides went in with the Ernesiders holding a slim 0-3 to 0-1 advantage. As can so often be the case though, Aodh Ruadh played better against the elements and goals from Oran Gillespie and Eoin Cassidy helped their side to a 2-9 to 0-8 victory. This was a good team performance by Ballyshannon, particularly in the second half with Tommy Clyne having a great game in midfield where he won a lot of ball and carried with real purpose.
Monday evening saw the lads back on the road, this time to Fintra where Killybegs where the opposition. Again, Aodh Ruadh were slow to start and had goals from Barry Campbell and Ben Daly to thank for keeping them in touch with the host at the turnaround, two points the deficit. Ballyshannon were much better in the second half and were coming on stronger as the game progressed. Unfortunately, the clock just ran out on the visitors and Killybegs held on for a 3-11 to 3-8 win. Aodh Ruadh had Killian Bradshaw back between the posts and his return proved a real boon. In front of him, Rian McCauley had a great outing at full back against a dangerous Killybegs attack, while Barry Campbell was in super form, knitting play together and causing the opposition a lot of problems. Next up for the minors is the visit of Kilcar on Bank Holiday Monday. Throw-in will be at 7pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh for what is the last of the group stage games.
Hurling
Last Friday's adult fixture between Aodh Ruadh and Buncrana didn't go ahead. Next up for the Aodh Ruadh senior hurlers in the Grand Canal Spring League is the trip to Inishowen to take on Burt this Friday.Congratulations to our minor hurlers Cian McDonald, Jun Hui Lin and Tommy Clyne who were part of the Donegal team which overcame Kildare last weekend by 0-15 to 2-3 in the Monaghan Centre of Excellence at Croaghan.
The county under 15 team were less fortunate in their first outing, which was against Wicklow at Dundalk IT. Hopefully the boys will bounce back in their next match against Mayo which will take place next month. Aodh Ruadh was well represented on the day and despite the result the lads had a great, albeit long, day out. They stopped off to watch the senior Donegal team playing Armagh in the Nicky Rackard competition and were treated to a big feed with the Armagh team afterwards.
The minors took the spoils against Setanta at the Crossroads in their first League action. This week they will host Sean MacCumhaill's in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. It would be great to see lots of local support on Thursday evening. Throw in at 7pm.
The under 15s enjoyed another successful outing in the Táin Óg against Glencar / Manorhamilton. This Wednesday they make the long journey to Newtownforbes in Longford to take on Clonguish. Best of luck to all the team.
In what is shaping up to be a busy week for many of our hurlers, Sunday sees the county qualifiers for the 2023 Féile take place in Convoy. Our under 15 team will be hoping to qualify for the finals weekend scheduled for Dublin later this year.
Training continues on Sunday at 11.45am for our junior groups. Hurls and helmets available and all newcomers welcome. Contact John Larkin for further information on 086-1076883.
Ladies football
The senior ladies made the long trip to the Rosguill peninsula to take on Na Dúnaibh on Sunday morning. It proved an evenly fought encounter, but in the end the homesters finished strongest to take the points. Aodh Ruadh started the brighter despite the early start and long journey. Eimear McMahon had chalked up the first point within 48 seconds on the clock, and that was followed by a point from Terri Gallagher and another McMahon white flag in the fourth minute. That was the end of the Ballyshannon scoring until the end of first half though as the swirling wind made it difficult for attackers. Downings were only able to register one point in the 15th minute and the answer to that only came on the stroke of half-time with Eimear McMahon converting a free to leave it 0-4 to 0-1 at the turn around. Na Dúnaibh came out of the traps early in the second half, with 1-1 on the board in the space of two minutes. An Eimear McMahon free levelled affairs though, as Aodh Ruadh entered probably their best spell of the game. Another McMahon free edged her side in front before two points from Síofra Hughes pushed the Shamettes out into a two-point lead at the end of the third quarter. The final quarter belonged to the hosts though and they reeled off a 1-3 haul with a 54th minute point from Terri Gallagher the only reply from Aodh Ruadh as it finished 2-6 to 0-9. A battling performance from the Ballyshannon girls, but in the end Na Dúnaibh were good value for their victory as the long trip finally took its toll on the visitors. Brídín Maguire did well between the posts and her kick out were well directed in the unpredictable elements. Annalisa Rabbitte and Shelly Loughlin made a number of strong runs through the middle third, while Eimear McMahon, Síofra Hughes and Terri Gallagher all took some good scores in tricky conditions.The reserve ladies entertained a MacCumhaill's side they had suffered a sobering defeat to last season. The performance on Sunday in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh saw Aodh Ruadh narrowing the gap, but the Ballybofey girls still emerged with the points. The first half was keenly fought with MacCumhaill's making the better of their chances to lead by 2-5 to 1-2 at half time. The Ernesiders continued to battle hard over the course of the second, but couldn't reel the visitors in as it finished Aodh Ruadh 1-6 MacCumhaill's 2-11. The team will take great heart from having gained so much ground since last year, despite the defeat. Best for Aodh Ruadh on the day was minor star Niamh McGloin who didn't put a foot wrong all day. Shauna Dolan, Hannah Doherty and Megan McGee made MacCumhaill's earn all their scores, while Niamh Hughes and Ana Keon both worked hard in midfield and finished with a point a piece. Up front Donna Martin was the main threat and took a well struck trademark goal, while Mary Flora Scott and Ciarde Sheerin also contributed well. We have a gallery of pictures from the game live now on aodhruadh.org.
The adult ladies have a break next weekend and return to action on Sunday, May 7th with another set of away games. The seniors will be heading to Glenties to take on Naomh Conaill, while the reserves will be in Donegal town to face Four Masters.
The under 16 girls had a double header of games against Four Masters last week. The first was in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh on Tuesday evening and was a game of two halves. There was a stiff breeze in the first half, which eased over the course of the second. Four Masters had the aid of the wind in the first half and made good use of it. Despite the opposition of the elements though, the Aodh Ruadh girls worked very hard and ensured the game was still in the melting pot at the interval. The game started with an early Four Masters goal, which was answered six minutes in by a point from Lauren Foy, followed by two Ciara Larkin efforts to make it all square in the ninth minute. The visitors then hit the net for the second time before adding a point. Lauren Foy then raised her second white flag of the game in the 18th minute, but the Donegal town girls responded with a 1-4 run of scores to move into a 0-4 to 3-5 lead. Aodh Ruadh did have the last say of the half though, Lauren Foy clipping over again. There was a big deficit to claw back, but the Ernesiders set to work and steadily chipped away at it. Laoise Foy hit the first two scores of the half before Aoife Travers cracked over a great individual effort. Ciara Larkin added two further points to leave the scores at 0-10 to 3-5 with 44 minutes played. We had to wait until four minutes from time for the next score and it went the way of Four Masters. That was quickly cancelled out by a Ciara Larkin point and then great work by Aoife Travers set up Emily McNamee to slip home her side's first goal. That made it a one-point game at 1-11 to 3-6, and all to play for. Four Masters managed to hit two quick fire goals though to stave off the danger, and a Ciara Larkin free deep in added time couldn't sway the result as it finished Aodh Ruadh 1-12 Four Masters 5-6. The scoreline doesn't do justice a magnificent battling effort by the Ballyshannon girls. They worked extremely hard against a strong breeze in the first half and kept pressing right through the second half. There were a lot of great displays in the middle of the pitch, in particular from the composed Jessica O'Mahoney and the tenacious Andrea Moore, as well as Megan Murphy, Emily McNamee, Katie McGowan and Aoife Travers. Sophia Mulligan also made some great stops against the Four Masters attackers.
The sides met again on Friday in Donegal Town in what proved to be another game of two halves. Aodh Ruadh were without Lauren Foy and Andrea Moore, but produced an outstanding display to take a two-point lead in at the interval. Aoife Travers was brilliant in midfield and dictated matters over the course of that first 30 minutes with superb support from Jessica O'Mahoney at centre back. Up front Cadhla Dolan and Rachel Gillespie were in great scoring form. The Four Masters girls came out with the bit between their teeth in the second half and goals helped them open up a lead on the visitors. Now it was time for the Ballyshannon defence to shine and Aodhbha O'Donnell at corner back put in a ferocious display on her opposite number with Megan Murphy and Katie McGowan giving no quarter either. With Jessica O'Mahoney continuing to carry well into the attack, Aodh Ruadh managed to claw the deficit back down to a few points, but Four Masters came with a late rally to secure the points on the night. Next up for the under 16 girls is another away trip, this time to Mountcharles on Tuesday evening.Sunday saw our under 15 girls out in Féile action in Ardara with teams from Dungloe, Ardara, Saint Naul's, Naomh Conaill and Gaoth Dobhair also in attendance. Aodh Ruadh travelled with 22 players and all got good game time over the course of a hectic, but well-organised tournament. The Ballyshannon girls got better the longer the competition went on and in their final match they ran the ultimate winners, Dungloe, to a point after a terrific game of football.
Under 6 and under 8 training continues this Tuesday from 5pm to 6pm at Coláiste Cholmcille. Anyone who would like to have their daughter involved, or who has questions, can contact Sarah Drummond on 083-8648342
Owen Roe's Quiz
Bord na nÓg are hosting a fund-raising quiz this Thursday in Owen Roe's at 9.30pm. We encourage all our underage parents and coaches to come along for what promises to be a fun night, with the usual competitive edge! Thanks in advance to our quiz master Peter Gallagher.Off the pitch action
It has been a busy few days off the pitch for our senior squad. The highlight of the weekend was the nuptials of Cian Dolan and Sarah McLaughlin. Huge congratulations to both and best wishes for a long and happy marriage. We hear there's a bidding war in the local press for the wedding pictures, so keep an eye out for those. Elsewhere Donagh and Edel McIntyre welcomed baby Eoghan to the world on Sunday. Well done to all concerned, and we look forward to Eoghan's debut a few years down the line! Finally, we wish senior stalwart Johnny Gethins all the best as he departs with the Army to Syria this Wednesday. Travel safe Johnny.Bonkers Bingo
Saturday evening saw a huge crowd descending on the Great Northern Hotel for Bonkers Bingo. The night really lived up to its billing and it was a phenomenal night of craic, laughter and great prizes. We would like to say a huge thanks to everyone who turned out on the night and it a wonderful occasion, and a special word of thanks to everyone who helped pull the event together and produced such an entertaining show.Boot exchange open for business
Our Aodh Ruadh boot exchange is open for business, and very well stocked due to kind donations from our club members. If you’d like to exchange your boots for a bigger pair, contact Packie on 087-9794696.Club Executive meeting
Club Executive Committee members are asked to note that the next monthly meeting will now take place on Thursday, May 4th.Ballyshannon Bingo
Ann Gallagher from Kiltyclogher had the biggest smile leaving bingo last week (18th April) as she scooped the Jackpot game and a house! The other house winners were Mairead Dunlop, Chrissie Roper (plus a line!), Mary Clancy, Leslie McNeely, Jack McCadden, Anthony Reynolds, Kathleen McGroary (also with a line), and Kay Kilvary. The line prizes were won by Teresa Hannon, Mary McGloin, Packie Johnston, Margaret Gilmartin, Molly Kerrigan, Mary Ferguson, Margaret Meehan, Teresa Campbell, Mary McGowan, Mary Donagher and Tracey Singh winning the €50 double line. Patsy Quinn won his second stand-up game in three weeks to take the €100 pot. The €1,000 Spring Snowball survived another week so will be played on 49 numbers this week, as we play for a prize fund of up to €2,600 including the €500 50/50 Jackpot. Bingo again this Tuesday night at the Abbey Centre at the usual time of 8.30pm, doors open 7.45pm. Books priced at just €10. As always, come along and enjoy the night, bring a friend and spread the word!