Aodh Ruadh hurlers romp to county under 16 title
Under 16 Hurling
15 October 2011
Aodh Ruadh 3-11
Buncrana 0-3
Father Tierney Park
Our under 16s take pride of place after putting on a tremendous show of hurling in MacCumhaill Park to capture the under 16 championship title. This young panel put in serious work and commitment since the start of March and on Saturday last they got their reward when they ran out convincing winners over old rivals Buncrana on a 3-11 to 0-3 score line.
It was the best performance produced by this particular bunch of lads since they came together five years ago. Such was their dominance the only surprise was that the winning margin wasn't greater. Aodh Ruadh were very quick out of the blocks and played a game of high intensity hurling for the full 60 minutes. Every man on the 20 man panel played their part and it was a really great team performance which provided the foundation for this success. Aodh Ruadh led at half time 2-5 to no score.
The lads were determined to keep playing the game at a high tempo as they knew their old rivals from Buncrana would punish any slip in their performance. The Ernesiders showed great discipline despite being on the receiving end of some heavy tackles. The lads hurled as if their lives depended on this game and they held Buncrana scoreless till the 47th minute when they got their opening score from a free. Aodh Ruadh put on the tremendous display of hurling which their management always knew they were capable off, and when the referee blew the full time whistle Aodh Ruadh were ahead by 3-11 to 0-3.
This was a tremendous achievement by this very young team only four of whom are overage next year, they put in serious work this year and bounced back from the serious hammering they got in their first game of the year against Lisbellaw. Over the last couple of years these lads have shown great commitment to training and the improvement in their game is reflected in the fact that only one point separated these teams in the under 14 county final in 2009.
At the final whistle there were great scenes of celebration as the under 16 county title was returning to Ballyshannon for the first time since 2006. Donegal Hurling Board Chairman Donal McLaughlin presented the shield to Aodh Ruadh's inspirational captain Tommy Gillespie, who gave a great speech - similar to his performance on the field nothing fancy just straight to the point. The boys were clapped of the field by our loyal band of supporters who have followed us through thick and thin. From Ballybofey it was back to Father Tierney Park where Scrap Saturday was just finishing up.
Thanks to the great efforts of these lads Aodh Ruadh could now celebrate a unique under 16 double championship success in hurling and football, showing the importance of promoting dual players in the club. A huge cavalcade toured the town and then back to Aras Aoidh Ruaidh for much deserved refreshments for the 2011 County champions.
Thanks to Eleanor Rooney and Eddie Lynch for these photographs.
Last modified: Thursday, 29 November 2018 at 2:40pm