Club Notes Archive - 2025
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June
- 3 June
-
Football
DESTINATION MOUNTCHARLES
Our senior footballers return to action this Sunday, with a trip to Mountcharles where Saint Naul's will be the opposition. The reserves get the action going at 1.30pm, with the seniors following at 3pm.UNDERAGE FOOTBALL UPDATES
Our under 14 White squad went into game week two after a good away win against Naomh Mhuire the previous week. The team had home advantage against Bundoran, but the Seasiders dominated from start to finish, and it looks like Realt na Mara will be on the better side of a mismatch in most games they play in in Division 4.
Our Green squad faced Four Masters at home, again after a good away win to Dungloe the previous week. A good first half performance saw Aodh Ruadh go in at half-time with a one goal lead. Four Masters dominated the second half though, and ran out easy winners in the end.
The under 14 White squad played their third league outing in Father Tierney Park last Wednesday. A pleasant break from the rain helped all involved. Naomh Ultan were the competition on the evening. Unfortunately we could not play our full 15 with Naomh Ultan having only 13 players. This made it very difficult for our very young team and suited the opposition who had several more experienced players.
Alex Hoey the captain on the night completed formalities with referee Pat Walsh. The first few minutes saw Naomh Ultan's attacks coming under great pressure with good pressing from the Aodh Ruadh defence, particularly Colin Doogan, Dara Doogan and Kyle Brennan. who put in great effort all evening. The Dunkineely boys got a great goal to get them off and running. The Ernesiders responded well with an excellent point and the first 20 minutes were fairly evenly contested. Points from Naomh Ultan kept them ticking over, but great work from the midfield duo of Robbie van Hooijdonk and Patrick McGurn worked the ball to the industrious Daniel Ward who finished a great move with a crisply taken goal. Naomh Ultan to their credit responded well and using their superior size and power were able to keep their score board ticking over. The second half was no different as the size of the Dunkineely players and the 13-a-side on a big pitch told against our hardworking, but young team. Notable on the evening was Daniel Ward who had a succession of physically more imposing Naomh Ultan players in serious trouble all game. He showed great strength and determination scoring goals, winning frees as well as the odd penalty. Ballyshannon were also unlucky on the night as good work from Peter Mulligan and Kyle Brennan was curtailed by injury. Rossa Gallagher put in a great effort making some brilliant runs and timely interceptions. A big thanks to under 12 panelists Dara Reynolds Magee, Jamie O'Reilly and Jack McGloin who helped out on the night to great effect. Daryl Brennan worked hard and showed some deft and clever passing skills. Luka Connolly's kick outs were the usual high standard giving the Ballyshannon boys some much needed momentum. Ethan Daly and Conor Reynolds also worked hard in the attack. It wasn't to be on the night but as ever there was plenty of learnings in defeat. We spoke in the dressing room and encouraged all the boys to keep training hard both at home and in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. Thanks as ever to all who got the players to the match and home.
Also on Wednesday evening, our Green squad travelled to Glenties to take on their Naomh Conaill under 14 counterparts. The Ernesiders started the brighter, and had two goals scored in the first seven minutes, before Glenties got their first point on the board. Both teams seemed fairly equal, but it was Aodh Ruadh who were more economical with their chances in front of the posts, and crucially, most of them were goal chances. The visitors went in at half-time leading by 5-0 to 1-3.
As expected, Naomh Conaill were a much improved proposition in the second half, and a couple of early points laid down an early marker. They dominated most of possession, but a workmanlike Aodh Ruadh defence blocked and harried, and made sure any score was hard earned.
With about a minute to go, and three points down, Glenties got a close in free, and had to go for goal. The Aodh Ruadh defence packed the goal line, but the powerful shot somehow found its way to the net.
With the sides level, referee Jimmy White judged there was still time remaining. Aodh Ruadh got their kick out away, and won priceless possession. A sweeping attack up the middle of the field resulted in an Ballyshannon player being fouled, and with the last kick of the game, Aodh Ruadh sent a 25 metre free over the bar for the win, 3-8 to 5-3.
Next up for the Green squad is a home fixture on Wednesday evening against Naomh Mhuire, while the White squad have no fixture this week.
Training continues for the squad as usual on Mondays and Fridays.The under 10s had a very busy week, firstly entertaining Ardara on Saturday morning with over 30 boys playing over the two games. On bank holiday Monday they travelled to Ardara for the annual Joe Larry tournament. Aodh Ruadh entered two teams and both squads enjoyed four very tough and competitive games against Termon, Naomh Mhuire, Glenswilly and Milford. Team one won all four games with team two winning three out of four, going down narrowly to Glenswilly. Thank you to all the parents and guardians who brought the boys down. There will be no training on Tuesday this week. Training will resume on Saturday and time will be confirmed on the team WhatsApp group.
Our under 8 footballers had a week off from their games, but this weekend look forward to hosting a blitz, with teams coming from Ardara, Kilcar, Saint Naul's, Killybegs, Enniskillen Gaels and Naomh Bríd. Training continues on Friday at 7pm in the Coláiste Cholmcille field.
Ladies
SUBS MAKE IMPACT AGAINST EUNAN'S
The only adult team in action over the weekend was the Division 1 ladies. They faced off against Saint Eunan's on a blustery Sunday morning. The Letterkenny girls travelled with 14 players, so this one was 13-a-side, but they gave Aodh Ruadh plenty of problems and it was only in the final quarter that Ballyshannon's reserves of energy really told.
Aodh Ruadh had the breeze behind them in the first half, but very much struggled to find their shooting boots, with a fair few wides blotting the copy book.
They did open the scoring though with Eimear McMahon sending over a tricky free from the left of the posts five minutes in.
Two minutes later a neat hand pass from Gillian Dufficy to Eimear McMahon was fed to Caoimhe Devine and all she had to do was tap to the net.
The strong Ballyshannon start continued, with Dufficy rattling a shot off the crossbar. It came back to her and she fed across to Caoimhe Devine and she split the post.
St Eunan's were starting to grow into the game though and 1-1 as the game moved towards the end of the first quarter had them back in contention.
Gillian Dufficy answered that in style in the 19th minute with a beautiful strike soaring over the bar.
The next couple of points went the way of Saint Eunan's, levelling the game. The final say of the half went the Shamettes way though, with Terri Gallagher pointing with her first touch of the game to make it Aodh Ruadh 1-4 Saint Eunan's 1-3 at the turnaround.
The second half started with something of a scoring flurry. Aodh Ruadh were first off the mark, putting together their best move of the game so far to go the full length of the pitch and get Eimear McMahon on the ball, and she applied the finish.
Saint Eunan's came back with a free, but Ballyshannon edged away again, Caoimhe Devine digging out the dirty ball for Eimear McMahon who extended her tally.
Saint Eunan's did hit the front though in the 38th minute, a shot coming back off the post being collected by a Letterkenny player who then sent to the back of the net. The visitors then tagged on two points to go a goal in front with the game now heading into the final quarter.
Eva McNamara broke that run of scores with a neat point and then in the 49th minute she gathered a great pass from Anna Rafferty before setting up Caoimhe Devine with a super ball. Devine, kept her head to jink past the keeper and hit the net, sending the Ernesiders back into a slim one point lead.
Eva McNamara was at the heart of Aodh Ruadh's next score. Terri Gallagher did brilliantly to win a ball in from McNamara, and laid off to Eimear McMahon who had McNamara rushing up in support and she fired over. McNamara then added a further point a minute into added time and that was enough get Aodh Ruadh over the line in this one as it finished Aodh Ruadh 2-9 Saint Eunan's 2-6.
Roisin McGloin and Niamh Barrett both had strong games in defence, while Rebecca McLaughlin got on a lot of good ball. Up front Caoimhe Devine's icy nerve was probably the winning of this game, with Eimear McMahon doing well to keep the score board ticking over. However, this was very much a game where the subs made the difference.
Terri Gallagher got her side back going after they seemed to lose their way, Rachel Gillespie injected some attacking verve, Eva McNamara made hay late in the game, while Anna Rafferty's intelligent movement through the middle third helped create the goal which put her side back in front.
Head along to aodhruadh.org where we have a great gallery of shots from the game.
The Aodh Ruadh team and scorers were as follows: Roisín Maguire; Roisin McGloin, Niamh Barrett; Katie McGowan, Anna-Lisa Rabbitte, Rebecca McLaughlin; Aoibhinn McGarrigle, Caoimhe Hughes O'Brien; Emer O'Brien, Ciara Larkin, Gillian Dufficy (0-1); Caoimhe Devine (2-1), Eimear McMahon (0-3, 1f). Subs: 15 Terri Gallagher (0-1) for Gillian Dufficy 25 minutes; Rachel Gillespie for Ciara Larkin 37 minutes; Eva McNamara (0-3) for Aoibhínn McGarrigle 42 minutes; Anna Rafferty for Emer O'Brien 44 minutes; Fiona McGonigle for Caoimhe Hughes O'Brien 51 minutes.This coming Sunday both our adult ladies teams will be in action. The Division 1 team will be travelling to Glenties for a 10.30am throw-in against Naomh Conaill, while the Division 3 are at home to Muff, with that one getting under way at 11am.
UNDERAGE LADIES UPDATES
The under 14 Development squad continued their season away to a very strong MacCumhaill's team on Saturday morning. On a very wet morning, the girls were up against it from the first whistle, to their credit the girls kept going right to the final whistle against a very strong team but came out on the wrong side of a difficult defeat. The Aodh Ruadh team and scorers were as follows: Eabha Hegarty, Sienna Doran (Amelia McNulty HT), Amelia McNulty (Ava McCaffrey, 20 mins), Sophia Hughes (Emily Gallagher HT (0-1), Bronagh Waugh, Mia Duffy, Shiloh Killalea, Muireann Gallagher, Aoibheann McGarrigle, Catherine Garvey (Robyn McNamee 40 mins), Ella Dorrian (1-1), Emily Kane, Aisling Britton (0-1), Aoife McGee, Lauren Kane.
In a busy week ahead, training continues for the squad on Monday at 5.45pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. The Division 2 team will entertain Ardara this Tuesday at 7.45pm, while the Development team will host Glenswilly at 7.00pm on Thursday. The Division 2 team will then host Malin on Tuesday, 10th June at 7.00pm, with all games at Father Tierney Park. Good luck to the girls for all these fixtures.The under 10 girls welcomed Saint Naul's and Four Masters to Father Tierney Park on a sunny Saturday morning. With action underway on four pitches, the girls found out how it rains sideways up here. But they loved every minute of it, the assembled parents and guardians perhaps not so much. It was a great morning of football, and you could see the girls improving and adapting with each game played. The next game for the under 10s is at home this Saturday against Melvin Gaels.
Under 8 training continues this week on Tuesday at 6pm at Coláiste Cholmcille.
Hurling
Our under 8s and under 10s have their respective all county blitzes this week in Convoy. All details will be in the team WhatsApp groups. On Sunday morning all ages continue to train at 11.45am, with the under 12s having their mid-week slot at 5.45pm on Tuesday. Contact details for each age bracket are as follows:
Under 12 - John Larkin – 086-1076883
Under 10 - Martin Larkin – 086-8033596
Under 8 – Stephen Sheerin – 086-8616927
Under 6 – Kevin Loughlin – 086-3062209Plans are afoot for our 2025 Summer camp. Anyone who is not a part of one of our panels who would like some more information, is asked to please contact John Larkin on 086-1076883.
All-county Féile
Monday was a busy day with both of our main playing fields hosting seven clubs from across the county for the Division 1 boys football Féile competition. We also hosted an American tour group. Thanks to the few club personnel who spent most of their bank holiday looking after these events. Congratulations to Barry O'Neill and his team on their organization of the Rory Gallagher Festival which brought thousands of visitors and provided the area with a huge economic boost. As always, we were happy to support by providing access to our facilities at Father Tierney Park.Double Fixture
This Thursday the club will be hosting double fixtures. The under 12 boys football game will take place in Father Tierney Park at 7pm and the re-fixed minor hurling game will proceed in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh at the same time.Ballyshannon Bingo
We had a bumper week of Ballyshannon Bingo last Tuesday. Firstly we had the carry-over from the previous week's bingo, which was cut short due to a power cut. The stand up game was won by Celine McGrath. Our 50/50 jackpot game saw Margaret Duffy take the single line prize, Aine McManus took the double line prize and Ann Patterson took the jackpot. The next game saw all the remaining prize money from the previous week in one game. Christine Mulligan took home a single line prize of €50, with Breda Gallagher taking home the double line as well as a €400 house!
On to our regular Tuesday game, and a big well done to Mary McGonagle for taking home the jackpot. Our €1,000 spring Snowball rolled over for another week and is in play now on 50 numbers, with Noreen Robinson taking home the €100 house.
The other house winners were Martin Travers, Mary McGloin, Hugh McGinty, Marie Ward, Margaret Barrett and Tina Gannon (shared), Maureen Connolly and Elaine Ellis (shared), Mary Cox, and Kathleen Fallon.
The €50 lines were won by Marie Ward and Nellie Bradley. The other line winners were Aggie Ryder, Breege Kelly, Nellie Bradley and Ann Granaghan (shared), Seamus Meehan, Georgina Devlin, Sonia Kelly and Mary Agnes Patton (shared), Teresa Campbell and Patsy Dowd (shared), James Monaghan and Shirley Kelly (shared), and Ann Lowther. The stand-up game prize was won by Regina Dolan, with the free books won by Teresa Campbell and Christina Mulligan.
We're back at it again this Tuesday at the Abbey Centre with €2,900 to play for, including the €1,000 Snowball, €500 50/50 Jackpot and €330 Lucky Numbers game. Door open 7.45pm for eyes down 8.30pm. As always spread the word and bring a friend, books only €10 for a great night out!
- 10 June
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Football
ADULT FOOTBALL
There was naturally disappointment that our senior and reserve footballers got no football last weekend, but having been awarded the points, they now turn their attention to this Saturday and the visit of Gaeil Fhánada. The reserves get the action under way at 5.30pm, and are followed by the seniors at 7pm.UNDERAGE FOOTBALL UPDATES
Our under 14 Green squad were two wins from three before Wednesday evenings game, at home against Naomh Mhuire. Having won the toss, captain Senan Ward opted to play with the backing of the lively breeze in the first half. A strong first half performance put Aodh Ruadh in a commanding lead at half-time. Playing against the elements in the second half, Aodh Ruadh continued their dominance, and ran out easy winners, 11-11 to 1-12 the final scoreline. This Wednesday our Green squad face a much tougher test, away against Ardara. Our White squad are away to Kilcar on the same evening, in the penultimate matches of our Southern Regional Board campaign. Both games throw in at 7pm.The under 12s had two games over the past week in a busy few days on the pitch. A young White squad played Bundoran on Wednesday evening, producing a good display and some attractive football, but were beat by a few points in the end. Three first half goals went a long way to getting the Seasiders the result in this one. Aodh Ruadh really rolled up their sleeves in the second half and gave a great account of themselves. Mattie McCadden in goals, while James McMurray and Eoin Blaney in the back line excelled. Michael McGuinness did a good job of linking play through the middle third, while up in the attack Joseph Keown and Conall McLoone landed some important scores.
Friday night saw the Green squad taking on Red Hugh's, albeit without Darragh Reynolds and Conor Cullen. Matters weren't helped by the conditions which were very poor. The Killygordon lads took full advantage and put in a strong performance to record a good win. Nevertheless, Aodh Ruadh stayed in the game for much of the first half, before a Red Hugh's pulled away over the course of the second half. Among the best performers on the night for Ballyshannon were full backs Ryan McGarrigle and Alex Gallagher who had a lot of work on their hands over the course of the 60 mintes. Elsewhere Dempsey Lynch, Liam O'Shea, Oisin O'Neill and Ben Menarry deserve great credit for giving it their all against very strong opposition.The under 10s have two games this coming week. First up is a trip to Bundoran on Tuesday evening with a 6.30pm throw in. On Saturday the boys will welcome Killybegs to Father Tierney Park with an 11am throw in.
Our under 8s had a busy Saturday as they hosted the Aodh Ruadh Summer football festival. We welcomed teams from Enniskillen Gaels, Ardara, Kilcar, Naomh Bríd, Saint Naul's and Killybegs. In total, there were 13 teams in action on the day, with our own boys having three teams and 30 players taking to the field, in what was a very enjoyable days football. As always these days can’t happen with a lot of help. A big thank you to our referees: John Hughes, Barry Travers, Niall McCready, Matt Gillespie, Ray Gallagher, Aaron McLoone and Ethan Kerrigan for their time. Thanks as always to Brian Drummond for coming up to capture the day on camera. You can see his handiwork now on aodhruadh.org. A special mention to under 14 players Hugh Mealiffe, Pauric McGrath, Phelim Barron and Peter Mulligan and under 10s Patrick McGonagle, Charlie Roper, James McCready and Daire Larkin for umpiring and getting stray footballs for the goalkeepers. Thank you to our parents for the fabulous catering, our coaches for coming up so early to get everything set up. Finally, well done to the players who performed very well on the day, with some fantastic football played. Next week, training as usual on Friday, with a game away to Saint Naul's on Saturday at 10am. All details will be on the team WhatsApp group.
Ladies
AODH RUADH PIPPED AT THE POST
The Division 1 ladies made the trip to Glenties on Sunday morning for their latest league outing. The Shamettes played some really good stuff in the first half and went in with a 1-8 to 1-4 lead, Eva McNamara finding the back of the net. However in the second half the wind got up and Ballyshannon had their work cut out as they played into it. Aodh Ruadh could only add one point to their tally, but with the defence putting in a truly fantastic performance and the visitors leading 1-9 to 1-5 going into the final ten minutes it looked like they would pick up a valuable away win. Unfortunately Glenties picked off 1-2 in the closing stages to snatch a 2-7 to 1-9 win.
It was good to get long term injuries, Anna Rafferty and Caitlin McGarrigle back on the pitch, while around the middle of the pitch Aoibhinn McGarrigle did a great job one of Naomh Conaill's main threats. The attack was very effective with Ciara Larkin, Gillian Dufficy, Rachel Gillespie and Terri Gallagher all doing good work up front.
The Aodh Ruadh team and scorers were as follows: Roisin Maguire; Roisin McGloin, Niamh Barrett, Anna Rafferty; Fiona McGonigle, Rebecca McLaughlin, Cadhla Gillespie; Anna Lisa Rabbitte, Aoibhinn McGarrigle; Rachel Gillespie (0-1), Eva McNamara (1-2), Ciara Larkin (0-1); Caoimhe Devine (0-2), Gillian Dufficy (0-3), Terri Gallagher. Sub: Caitlin McGarrigle.MUFF JUSTICE
The Division 3 ladies put in a solid display against Muff in Father Tierney Park on Sunday morning, but the visitors had too much for the Ernesiders on the day.
Muff played the first half with the aid of a lively following breeze and made full use of it.
The Inishowen women opened the scoring, but Aodh Ruadh came back with a good move, with Sarah Drummond finding Niamh Hoey who then sent Caitlin Gallagher through. Gallagher worked her opening well before sending over the leveller.
From there though it was tough going for the Shamettes into the wind and although Kate McGrath, Caitlin McGuinness and Sophia Mulligan put in a great shift, Muff were 4-4 to 0-1 by the 26th minute.
Ballyshannon did have a rally before the break as their patient passing through the hands finally started to yield results. Cadhla Dolan was the beneficiary, hitting two good points into the wind. The final say of the half went the way of the Naomh Padraig ladies though, so the sides turned around Muff leading 4-5 to 0-3.
Although they had the wind at their back now, Aodh Ruadh struggled to find their rhythm in the new half. Meanwhile Muff continued to keep the score board ticking over and were 5-7 to 0-3 ahead after 37 minutes. That was to be their last score of the game though, and Ballyshannon started to build their confidence.
It finally bore fruit in the 49th minute when sub Fodhla Sheerin started a move from the defence which ended with Caitlyn Gallagher connecting with a clever shot which dropped back across the face of goal into the net. Gallagher was on the mark again moments later after Aodh Ruadh the kick out to take her side up to 1-4.
Not long after Niamh Hoey opened her account, winning a long ball in first time, racing toward the posts under pressure and doing well to fire over.
With five minutes left Caitlyn Gallagher extended her tally with another precise effort, but time had well and truly caught up on the homesters at this stage and Muff saw out the win as it finished Aodh Ruadh 1-6 Muff 5-7.
Tara Gallagher pulled off two great stops and did a good job of getting her kick outs away. The defence did really well with Kate Cunningham marshalling her forces well and Megan Murphy doing a lot of hard work. Aodhbha O'Donnell covered a lot of ground, while in the attack Caitlyn Gallagher made great use of any ball that came her way, while Niamh Hoey, Sarah Drummond and Cadhla Dolan all did their best to create chances.
The Aodh Ruadh team and scorers were as follows: Tara Gallagher; Evie McGrath, Kate Cunningham, Aine Gillespie; Caitlin McGuinness, Megan Murphy, Sophia Mulligan; Aodhbha O'Donnell, Cadhla Dolan (0-2); Aoife Bromley, Sarah Daly, Meabh McCloskey; Caitlyn Gallagher (1-3), Niamh Hoey (0-1), Amanda Mahon. Subs: Hannah McGuinness for Amanda Mahon 40 minutes; Fodhla Sheerin for Aoife Bromley 42 minutes; Hannah Downey for Meabh McCloskey 50 minutes.This coming Sunday both our adult ladies teams will be in action. The Division 1 team are at home against Gaeil Fhánada for an 11am throw-in, while the Division 3 are away to Convoy, with that one getting under way at 10.30am.
UNDERAGE LADIES UPDATES
Across Tuesday and Thursday last week 35 girls represented the club at under 14 level in both the division 2 team and the Development team. First up on Tuesday evening, the Division 2 team took on Ardara in Father Tierney Park looking to kick start their campaign following an opening day loss away to Termon. After suffering a 21 point loss to this Ardara team in the under 13 league last year, the girls knew they had to be at their very best to get anything from the game.
Playing with a strong wind in the first half, Aodh Ruadh showed their intention to go for goals, and found the back of the net six times in the opening half. Emily Gallagher’s soccer style finish was the first score of the game, but Ardara immediately hit back with a goal of their own. The Aodh Ruadh girls showed some lovely interchanges as they looked to break through the Ardara defence and a brilliant Tiah Kane goal was again quickly cancelled out by Ardara. The home team, already missing the injured Emer McGarrigle in defence, suffered a set-back just 15 minutes when influential half-back Louise Browne suffered an unfortunate injury, leading to a slight re-shuffle on the right hand side of the pitch with Ava Garvey slotting back into the half backs and Emma O’Neill coming on at right half forward. Shortly after, the Shamettes took control adding goals from Halle McGowan, Jenna Britton, and two from Kayla McDermott. Jenna Britton and Emily Gallagher added points, but an Ardara goal right on the stroke of half time, took the wind slightly out of Aodh Ruadh’s sails, leaving the half time score 6-2 to 3-1, but facing the strong wind in the second half.
Ardara set their stall out immediately with a three pointer in the first minute of the second half, but influential midfielder Jenna Britton replied immediately with a superb solo goal to restore the ten point gap. Ardara playing with the wind were increasingly taking territorial control and exhibited some brilliant point scoring to eat into the Ballyshannon lead. Jenna Britton completed her hattrick to keep a gap for the home side, but Ardara were piling on the pressure and with Tiah Kane dropping back to brilliantly help out in midfield, the Aodh Ruadh defence stood firm protecting the goal while Ardara kept tagging on points. A converted Ardara penalty with just six minutes remaining left just a point between the teams, and against the wind it looked liked a fabulous effort might just come up short. But the home team kept driving forward and worked an opportunity for Emily Gallagher who escaped her marker and blasted an unstoppable shot to the back of the net to give her side a cushion again, this was followed by a free kick calmly converted by Emma O’Neill. Ardara kept pushing and, following a brilliant save by their keeper from a Leah O’Malley-Malone shot, they got the gap back to the minimum again, before Pat Walsh’s final whistle sounded and was greeted with elation by the home team sealing a 9-3 to 6-11 victory.
A brilliant team performance by the Aodh Ruadh girls. Eabha Hegarty in goals made some key saves behind a full back line of Bethany McNamee, Amy McNeeley and Saoirse O’Donnell (Mia Duffy 50 mins) who all put their bodies on the line time and again for the team, captain Leia Roper was influential throughout at centre half back flanked by the tireless Nicole McGrath and Louise Browne (inj, Emma O’Neill (0-1) 15 mins, (Catherine Garvey 57 mins)). Player of the match Jenna Britton (3-1) drove the team on from start to finish ably assisted by the hard working Niamh Patton, the half forwards of Ava Garvey, Tiah Kane (1-0) and Halle McGowan (1-0) (Leah O’Malley Malone 42 mins), attacked and defended as a unit, providing the platform for many of the first half scores, and supplied extra steel in defence in the second half. The full forward line of Emily Gallagher (2-1), Kayla McDermott (2-0) and Katie McLoughlin provided non-stop movement and battling and were the first line of defence, while making crucial attacking contributions. Subs not used on the day were Holly O’Neill, Emily Kane and Aoife McGee. A brilliant win and one this team will look to kick on from when they host Malin this Tuesday at 7pm.
On Thursday night it was the turn of the under 14 Development team as they hosted Glenswilly at Father Tierney's Park. The visitors playing with the wind, took a commanding early lead, but the hosts battled well and a soccer style run and finish to the net from Ella Dorrian kick-started a revival. Muireann Gallagher finished neatly for a second goal, while a really well worked move starting with Ella Dorrian saw Lauren Kane kick a precise pass to Aoife McGee who turned and blasted to the roof of the net. Ella Dorrian added a point and a second goal to go along with a well taken Lauren Kane point to keep Ballyshannon in touch at half-time although they were down by 2-13 to 4-2.
The conditions conspired against Aodh Ruadh as the wind died down considerably over the half-time interval and the benefit of playing with the breeze was dramatically reduced. The girls started the second half with intent, but Glenswilly defended resolutely, Ella Dorrian continued to pull all the strings, ably assisted by Muireann Gallagher and Aoibhinn McGarrigle around the middle third, and inspired Aodh Ruadh to claw back the lead with goals from Leah O’Malley-Malone, and substitute Emma O’Neill. Two Ella Dorrian points were supplemented by well taken points from Lauren Kane, Muireann Gallagher and substitute Aisling Britton, before Ella Dorrian sealed her hat-trick with a penalty buried into the top corner. Glenswilly responded well though, adding four second half goals to maintain a good cushion. When the final whistle blew, the scoreline slightly flattered the visitors in what was a much tighter game than the final scoreline of 7-7 to 6-16 might suggest.
The Aodh Ruadh team and scorers were as follows: Eabha Hegarty, Sienna Doran (Amelia Coyle HT), Mia Duffy (Saoirse O’Donnell 51 mins), Shiloh Killalea (Larissa Lawless 47 mins), Sophia Hughes (Ava McCaffrey 45 mins), Emily Kane, Catherine Garvey, Muireann Gallagher, Aoibhinn McGarrigle (Emma O’Neill 40 mins (1-0)), Holly O’Neill (Robyn McNamee 51 mins), Ella Dorrian (3-3), Lauren Kane (0-2), Anna Meehan (Aisling Britton 35 mins (0-1)), Aoife McGee (1-0), Leah O’Malley-Malone (1-0)(Emily Gallagher 47 mins).The under 10s were in action against Melvin Gaels on Saturday with three teams from each club taking part. The girls got plenty of football and there were some great skills on show. Training continues every Monday.
Under 8 training continues this week on Tuesday at 6pm at Coláiste Cholmcille.
Hurling
Our under 10s are in action this Sunday morning at the all-county blitz in Convoy. To facilitate travel to Roscommon for those travelling, it will be on at the earlier time of 10am. All details will be in the team WhatsApp group.Our under 8 hurlers finished out a busy weekend of under 8 action at the all-county blitz in Convoy. We had two teams entered, and they played very well. Training continues this Sunday at 11.45am.
Our under 6s are coming to the end of their season, with three more training sessions remaining. Anyone who wants to come up and join the fun before the season ends can contact Kevin Loughlin on 086-3062209.
On Sunday morning all ages continue to train at 11.45am, with the under 12s having their mid-week slot at 5.45pm on Tuesday. Contact details for each age bracket are as follows:
Under 12 - John Larkin – 086-1076883
Under 10 - Martin Larkin – 086-8033596
Under 8 – Stephen Sheerin – 086-8616927Plans are afoot for our 2025 Summer camp. Anyone who is not a part of one of our panels who would like some more information, is asked to please contact John Larkin on 086-1076883.
Schools activity
There is a lot of schools action in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh this week. On Tuesday morning Gaelscoil Éirne's sports day takes place, while on Thursday at 4pm the finals of the Creevy National School football League are due to be staged.Park security and safety
The officers of the committee in charge or relevant team manager are asked to ensure that the club's property is secure and that all doors and gates are closed when their meeting, training or game is finished.Ballyshannon Bingo Snowball on the climb!
With last week's Ballyshannon Bingo €1,000 Summer Snowball going unclaimed, this week's Snowball increases to €1,100 on 51 numbers as part of a mighty €3,000 prize fund! Well done to all our winners last week. Caroline Finnerty took home the Jackpot game. The €100 house was won by Marie Ward, who also took a line. The other house winners were Sharon Brogan (twice!), Oscar Mohan, Tina Gannon, Georgina Devlin, Leanne Patterson and Antoinette McKinney shared game seven, Marie Gormley and Teresa Campbell. The €50 line winners were Ann Patterson and Marina Kerrigan. The other line winners were Molly Ferguson, Dylan Withers, Leanne Patterson, Breda Gallagher, Frances Brennan (twice!), Catherine McGroary, Mary Travers, Carina Halliday, Packie Johnston and Sonia Kelly. The free books were won by Gerard Cullen and Bill McGonigle. We do it all again this Tuesday night at 8.30pm at the Abbey Centre, with doors open from 7.45pm. Books great value at just €10 for that super prize fund of including €1100 Snowball, €500 50/50 Jackpot and €330 Lucky Numbers game. Come along and spread the word!
- 17 June
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Football
ADULT FOOTBALL
The scheduled games against Gaeil Fhánada on Sunday were postponed as a mark of respect to the Buggy family on the tragic passing of Grainne Buggy. The league programme resumes this Thursday the games against Fanad taking place at the Centre of Excellence in Convoy, with times to be confirmed. The teams are back out on action again on Saturday with a trip to Inishowen to take on Naomh Pádraig Uisce Chaoin. The reserves get the action under way in Muff at 5.30pm, and are followed by the seniors at 7pm.UNDERAGE FOOTBALL UPDATES
The under 16s were denied by the minimum in the all-county Division 2 under 16 final on Monday evening. Despite playing into the wind Aodh Ruadh got off to the perfect start as Anthony Duffy went on a mesmerising run the length of the pitch before laying off to Callum Dorrian. Dorrian then evaded some tough challenges before looping a shot in over the keeper. The hosts then won the kick out and Dorrian added his first point from play.
Mountcharles came back with a point, but Darragh McCready rode some tough challenges before lacing a ball into Callum Dorrian who got a shove in the back. The alert Dorrian then did a tap and go before tucking the ball past the keeper into the right corner.
Naul's then got the next two points before a rasper from Eoghan 'Blake' Gallagher flashed just over the bar.
A 1-2 salvo from the visitors then levelled up the game as it moved into the second quarter. Aodh Ruadh were getting it tough to make progress against the lively wind but Eoghan 'Blake' Gallagher did edge his side back in front with a tricky free from out on the left wing to make it 2-3 to 1-5 after 19 minutes.
Then six minutes from the break a great move by the Ernesiders saw Darragh McCready well denied by the Saint Naul's keeper, but Callum Dorrian was lurking and he first-timed to the back of the net.
Mountcharles rallied in the run to the break though and an unanswered 1-3 meant they went in leading by 2-8 to 3-3.
Half time sub Eoghan McCadden opened the second half scoring, showing great persistence to engineer a chance and slot over.
However Saint Naul's responded strongly again, racking up 1-2 before Callum Dorrian interrupted their momentum with a point from play.
The visitors tagged on another point before Aodh Ruadh started to start firing again. First Callum Dorrian won and converted a free in the 42nd minute. Then three minutes later Dorrian teed up Eoghan 'Blake' Gallagher to stroke over a good point from play.
Not long after that a defence splitting pass found Dylan Cullen and he blasted to the net to make it Aodh Ruadh 4-7 Saint Naul's 3-11. Saint Naul's did come back with a free, but they were starting to wilt against the wind and their cause took a further blow when they were reduced to 14 men six minutes from time.
Aodh Ruadh were finishing strongly now and one of the twinners set up Callum Dorrian for a great point. That was followed by another slick move a few minutes later which Dorrian again converted.
The hosts were just a point in arrears and now pushing hard to get something from the game. But with just 30 seconds of over-time played, the referee, Paul Hardy, called an end to proceedings meaning it ended Aodh Ruadh 4-9 Saint Naul's 3-13. It must be said that Hardy had a very good game in what was a tough contest to oversee, but Aodh Ruadh could feel a little aggrieved at not having had a few more minutes to reel in Saint Naul's.
Callum Dorrian was in imperious form and Saint Naul's just couldn't contain him. Elsewhere, Alastair Cian continues to do well between the stick, while Dara Vaughan was very game in the defence and read the play well. Up the attack Darragh McCready was excellent in his link play and Eoghan Gallagher took some fine scores. Next up for the under 16 will be a championship clash against Gaoth Dobhair in a few weeks time.
The Aodh Ruadh team and scorers were as follows: Alastair Cian; Micheal McGrath, Markko Branley, Alex Kerrigan; Anthony Duffy, Cole Connolly, Dara Vaughan; Antoin Duffy, Eoghan 'Blake' Gallagher (0-3, 1f); Manus Conlon, Darragh McCready, Ethan Kerrigan; Jack Hassett, Callum Dorrian (3-5, 1f), Eoghan McNulty. Subs: Dylan Cullen (1-0) for Jack Hassett 27 minutes; Eoghan McCadden (0-1) for Anthony Duffy half-time; Aaron McLoone for Alex Kerrigan 35 minutes; Oisin McCadden for Manus Conlon 35 minutes; Anthony Duffy for Ethan Kerrigan 52 minutes; MJ Ward, Oisin McGrath, Iarla Hartin.A tight tussle in Towney for the under 14 White squad this week. After some difficult games for the boys, they trekked to Kilcar with hope and optimism. The weather was kind and with the pitch in fine condition a great game lay ahead. Things got off to a great start With Daniel Ward scoring a fine goal and a lovely point. Great supply from our two midfielders Robbie van Hooijdonk and Patrick McGurn contributed to several scores over the game. Alex Hoey with four points from play had a great evening as did hard working Donnacha Kane. The half forwards are asked to work very hard between attack and defence and Rossa Gallagher once again gave his all. Daryl Brennan is well experienced at this role and is a great link man between defence and attack. Freddie Knott slotted in for us at number 12 and was born for the role. The half back line was ably led by Peter Mulligan who worked very hard. Dara Reynolds Magee will have his own furrow made in Towney with all his running. Kyle Brennan put in a stalwart display in defence particularly in the second half when the heat was highest. Our last line of defence was Colin Doogan, Ethan Daly and Conor Vaughan who worked hard to hold back an aggressive and quick forward line. Jamie O'Reilly came on early in the second half and put in a fine display of running football even grabbing himself a fine point. Our ever dependable goalkeeper Luka Connolly continued his recent form with a great display of kick outs and shot stopping.
While Aodh Ruadh started well, Kilcar on their home patch were a doughty opposition. They had some very quick players with great football skills. The two teams were well matched. Kilcar were soon level and though Aodh Ruadh got some good scores, the Ernesiders went in seven points down at half time. The management team were concerned as it was a game that could get away from us. Our second half display was much better. It was a ding dong battle up and down the pitch with every ball contested. While Ballyshannon played really well we couldn't close the gap sufficiently and lost the game by six points. As ever in defeat there were great learnings which were discussed with the boys after the game. The team train again on Friday with a lot more football to be played.
The under 14 Green squad were three from four going into their difficult looking fifth fixture, away to Ardara. A challenge match in pre-season against the same opponents, meant our lads knew the physical strength and footballing ability of this Ardara team was going to be huge challenge. And so it proved, with Ardara setting out their stall from the throw-in, winning possession and powerfully running through to score a goal after ten seconds.
Ardara continued to dominate throughout the half. Aodh Ruadh did have a good percentage of possession, but found their physically bigger opponents very hard to break down and they were 3-10 to 0-2 down at half time.
The second half began in the same fashion as the first, Ardara winning possession from the throw-in, powering straight towards goal and putting the ball in the net. Aodh Ruadh got through for more scores in the second half, but Ardara dominated proceedings and ran out 7-17 to 1-6 winners.
Next week both squads are at home on Wednesday evening, with our White squad taking on Na Rossa at 6.30pm and our Green squad up against Naomh Columba at 7.45pm.The under 12s finals took place over last weekend with the Green squad playing brilliantly to win their final against Malin. The White squad were defeated by a strong Saint Eunan's team.
The under 10s had two fixtures in a busy week. First up was the short trip down the N15 where the 2016 boys proved too strong for Bundoran over two games. On Saturday, the 2015 boys welcomed Killybegs to Father Tierney Park, again playing over two games. Well done to the four under 10 boys who lined out with the under 12s on county final day on Saturday. On Tuesday the boys will welcome Four Masters to Father Tierney Park for a 6.30pm throw in. Training will continue on Saturday morning with details to be announced on the team WhatsApp group.
Our under 8s were in action in a mini blitz down in Mountcharles where Saint Naul's hosted ourselves and Naomh Bríd. It was a great morning of football with 23 Aodh Ruadh players taking part. Each team had three games each. Thanks to Saint Naul's for hosting a great day of football.
Ladies
SECOND WIND SEES DIVISION 3 LADIES TO THE WIN
The Division 3 ladies continued their bright form this season with a 3-6 to 0-11 win against Convoy. The homesters had the better of things for much of the first half, but the introduction of Faye Gillespie near half-time helped get the Shamettes back into the game, with the Kildoney assassin banging two goals to leave it Saint Mary's 0-11 Aodh Ruadh 2-0 at the interval. In the second half Bridín Maguire made her return from injury between the posts and made a massive contribution to a stronger showing by the Ernesiders. Megan Murphy and Emily really got motoring in this period too, and with Cadhla Dolan hitting 1-1, and Faye Gillespie adding three points to her tally Aodh Ruadh moved into the lead and saw out the game to record a 3-6 to 0-11 point victory. The full back line of Jessica O'Mahoney, Kate Cunningham and Aodhbha O'Donnell were superb throughout against a very dangerous Convoy attack, while Emer O'Brien capped an energetic and impactful showing with a well taken point.
The Aodh Ruadh team and scorers were as follows: Roisin Maguire; Jessica O'Mahoney, Kate Cunningham, Aodhbha O'Donnell; Megan Murphy, Cliodhna Kerr (0-1), Emily McNamee; Emer O'Brien (0-1), Fiona McGonigle; Niamh Hoey, Cadhla Dolan (1-1), Meadb McCloskey; Caitlyn Gallagher, Ciara Gillespie, Amanda Mahon. Subs: Faye Gillespie (2-3) for Niamh Hoey, Rebecca McLaughlin for Meadb McCloskey, Eva McGrath from Cliodhna Kerr, Bridin Maguire for Roisin Maguire.This coming Sunday the focus is on the Division 3 team who are away to MacCumhaill's, with that one getting under way in the county ground at 10.30am.
UNDERAGE LADIES UPDATES
Best of luck to the under 16s who are taking on MacCumhaill's in the Division 1 county semi-final at the Centre of Excellence in Convoy this Tuesday, throw-in at 8pm.The under 14 girls moved on to six points from three games in Division 2 when Malin were unable to field last week. The girls had a really good challenge game in Kinlough against Melvin Gaels on Monday evening, putting in strong performances all over the pitch. This sets the girls up well for a big day on Saturday when the two under 14 girls teams host Saint Eunan's in back to back games at Father Tierney Park. The division 2 game throws in at 10am and the development game throws in at 11.30am. It would be great to see good support for the girls. Training continues on Wednesday evening at 5.45 in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh.
The under 12s had a super blitz last Saturday at Páirc Aodh Ruadh. Ballyshannon had three teams and played against two Saint Naul's teams and one from Naomh Ultan. Conditions were perfect and the games were played in great spirit. Great performances were put in by all the girls and special mention must go to sharp shooters Alice Mulligan and Muireann Gallagher. Elayna Patterson was solid in goals with plenty of running from Robyn Matthews and Emily Rose Summerville who were up and down the pitch all day. Alba Ni Ghallachoir and Aoife Hoey were ferocious in midfield. Next up is an away blitz to Four Masters next Monday, finishing up with a trip to an all-county blitz in Convoy on 28th June.
The under 10s are heading for the county Centre of Excellence in Convoy this Saturday for an all-county blitz. Best of luck to the whole team.
Under 8 training continues this week on Tuesday at 6pm at Coláiste Cholmcille.
Hurling
Our senior hurlers return to action this Saturday with their opening game of the intermediate championship. They travel to the Crossroads to take on Setanta with throw-in at 4pm.This Thursday our under 12s are taking part in an all-county blitz in Convoy. All details are in the teams WhatsApp group.
On Sunday morning all ages continue to train at 11.45am, with the under 12s having their mid-week slot at 5.45pm on Tuesday.
Contact details for each age bracket are as follows:
Under 12 - John Larkin – 086-1076883
Under 10 - Martin Larkin – 086-8033596
Under 8 – Stephen Sheerin – 086-8616927Plans are afoot for our 2025 Summer camp. Anyone who is not a part of one of our panels who would like some more information, is asked to please contact John Larkin on 086-1076883.
Games this week
This Tuesday at 7.45 Naomh Columba play Termon in the minor ladies Division 2 Final at the Father Tierney Park. On Saturday at 12.30pm Donegal's under 15 boys are playing Sligo in a challenge game on the main pitch at Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh.Summer Camp
The annual Aodh Ruadh Summer Camp returns on Monday, 3rd July and runs to Friday, 7th July for boys and girls aged four and upwards. Activities run from 10am to 1.30pm each day and include skills training, fun and games, Gaelic football, camogie, rounders, hurling and lots more. The cost per session per week is €60 per child. We have reduced rates available for parents or guardians sending more than one child. Two children €110. Three children €150. For more information contact Sarah Drummond on 083-8648342.Condolences
Aodh Ruadh were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Grainne Buggy on Thursday past. Grainne came from a background steeped in GAA and played on the 1990 intermediate title winning camogie team. Our thoughts are with the whole Buggy family and their wide circle of friends at this time.Ballyshannon Bingo
With last week's Ballyshannon Bingo €1,100 Summer Snowball going unclaimed, this week's Snowball increases to €1,200 on 52 numbers as part of a mighty €3,100 prize fund!
Well done to all our winners last week. Tina Gannon took home the Jackpot game. The €100 house was shared by Catherine McLoone and Marian McDermott. The other house winners were Brenda Carty and Elaine Kelly (shared), Angela Gaye, Sean Ward, Angela Gaye and Celine McGrath (shared), Margaret Meehan, Packie Johnston, Ivy Murphy, Lesley McNeely and Breege McDermott (shared). The Stand Up game was won by Mary Donagher, who also took home the €50 prize on game 6, as well as another line. The other €50 line winner was Mary Alice Patton. The other line winners were Teresa Campbell Hanna and Edmund Brennan, Frances Murphy, Mary O'Kane, Antoinette McKinney, Maureen Coughlin, Josie Lynch and Kathleen McGrory, Marian McDermott and Madeline Gibbions. The free books were won by Mary Kane and Anne Lowther
We do it all again this Tuesday night at 8.30pm at the Abbey Centre, with doors open from 7.45pm. Books great value at just €10 for that super prize fund of including €1,100 Snowball, €500 50/50 Jackpot and €330 Lucky Numbers game. Come along and spread the word!
- 24 June