Thirds fall at final hurdle
By Sean Perry
The third team began training on March 9th with healthy turnouts making themselves available. Managed by Paddy Kelly, Gerry McManus and Gerard McGloin, training attendances averaged 14 to 18 players. A number of players who hadn't played for the club for many years were welcomed back as well as many of this and last year's minor teams. Over the course of the year, 33 players played for the third team with David O'Donnell installed as team captain.
The first league outing was away to St. Michaels on April 9th which resulted in a victory. Other league victories were recorded at home to Muff and St. Eunans. The third team drew away to St. Nauls and Gweedore. Essentially, defeats to Four Masters and Kilcar meant a win was needed against Glenfin for a league semi-final place but on the day, the opposition proved too strong.
The junior "B" championship commenced on June 5th with the first leg being away to Moville which saw a superb team performance result in a 3-9 to 0-8 win. The semi-final against Glenfin on August 21st was a tense error-ridden affair. A Gary Walsh penalty save in the last few minutes proved inspirational as Aodh Ruadh went on to point at the other end and secure a place in the final.
Gweedore were the side which stood in the way of Aodh Ruadh securing back to back junior "B" championships on September 4th. The Ballyshannon boys started brightly and led by 0-6 v 0-3 at half-time. Diarmuid Keon was taken off injured and the power of the Gweedore bench became evident late on when many young stars of the future were thrust into the fray. One of these, Peter McGee, a younger brother of county players, Neil and Eamon, punched home a late goal to secure the title for the Gaeltacht club.
It was a disappointing end for our third team who put in a lot of effort throughout the year, the management would like to convey it's gratitude to the club executive, sponsors and Pat Melaniff for all their help.
Report Filed: 16 December 2005