2012 Archive

The final round of the league section of the intermediate championship took place on Friday evening in Enniscrone. Having secured our semi final spot the previous week there was nothing but pride at stake for the team whilst Farnans were playing for a playoff place.

The first 4 minutes was helter skelter with us going into the lead from the throw in with a Kevin Langan point and this was followed by a goal fisted to the net by Stevie Curley after great work by Kevin McDonnell and Kevin Langan. Farnans responded with a a stunning goal. Things quietened down after that whirlwind start but despite playing against the wind we took control and scored points from Niall Judge, Kevin Langan, Paul Kilcullen, Pat Naughton and Michael Langan meant we were in control at half time 1-9 v 1-1.

Like the first halfway we got another whirlwind start when Kevin Langan and Niall Judge dispossed the full back and Judge finished to the net. We tacked on a few points as did Farnans but we had won the midfield battle at this stage and it was no surprise when Kevin McDonnell drove to the net after hitting the crossbar the minute before. Curley, Langan, Pat Naughton, John McDonnell, Brian Howley and Judge points meant we had won the game long before the end. At the final whistle Farnans broke in for a goal and the result meant they went out on score difference and Easkey progressed to the quarter finals.

The team now get ready for a semi final in 2-3 weeks.

Team: Anthony Kilcullen, Alan Naughton, David Fox, Tomas Cawley, Martin Foody, Patrick Naughton(0-2), Keith Earlis, Micheal Langan(0-1), Paul Kilcullen(0-2), John McDonnell(0-1), Kevin Langan(0-3), Brian Howley(0-1), Stevie Curley(1-2), Kevin McDonnell(1-2), Niall Judge(1-4). Sub Steven Kilgallon

This was a rip roaring contest with the lead changing hands 3 times in the last 4 minutes. We got off to a good start but were slow to score, however young Colm Naughton put over a good point and this was followed by a screamer of a goal from who else but Ronan Murphy. Mícheal Cahill and Oisín Flynn scored two more points but we were rocked when the visitors scored two goals in quick succession .

Colm Naughton got another good point but we trailed as the halftime whistle was about to be blown when Seán Carrabine went on a strong run and despite a great save by the keeper Ronan Murphy got his second of the night to lead 2-4 v 2-2 at the break.

We got off to a flyer of a second half scoring two goals and a point in the first five minutes Paul Flynn and Carrabine getting the goals and another point from play by Seán Carrabine who was everywhere. As the half moved on the visitors gradually came back into it and with 8 minutes left had equalised and then moved in front. We drove down the field and the young lads Oisín Flynn, James Tully and Dáire Barrins put Colm Naughton in for a well taken point.

Danny O'Hora and Benny Foody broke up a Johns attack and a breaking ball was won by Dáire Barrins who was clothes lined and Seán Carrabine scored a great free from the ground. The next two kickouts were won by our lads and Carrabine who was easily the man of the match drove over two more points from play to secure the win.

Johns broke up the field but once again Benny Foody, Niall Judge and Fergal Boland snuffed it out to secure a very important win for the team.

Team: Kenneth Flynn, Fergal Boland, James Boland, Niall Judge, Ronan Coggins, Benny Foody, Danny O'Hora, Seán Carrabine (1-4), Paul Flynn(1-0), Dáire Barrins, Míchael Cahill(0-1), Oisín Flynn(0-1), Colm Naughton(0-3), Ronan Murphy (2-0), Elliot Beardshall. Sub James Tully

This was a game the team had to win to retain their interest in the competition. It was great to see a good number of players return to action after a while out.

We drove into a strong early lead when we lead 9-0 after 20 minutes with Eoin Kent(2), Curley, Cullen, Kilcullen, McDonnell, Wright and Flynn scoring. We then let Calry back into the game and only two excellent saves from Brian Feeney kept the comeback from being realised. Just before the break Stevie Curley drove to the net to leave the halftime score 1-9 v 0-4.

We started the second half like a train and put over a good number of points to establish an unassailable lead. Liam Naughton scored two goals whilst Kevin McDonnell got the other one. McDonnell scored a number of long range points and Keith Foody made his way up for one too.. Hopefully the team can now stick together and get a few training sessions in before the next outing.

Team: Brian Feeney, Conor Judge, Keith Earlis, Owen Kent, Keith Foody, Conor Gallagher, Kevin McDonnell, Shane Wright, Eoin Flynn,Stephen Curley, Ciarán Kilcullen, Matthew Cullen, Cian Barrins. Subs: Liam Naughton, James Flynn

No, the scoreline is correct. After 4 quarters of very intense football this game was decided by 1 minute spell in the final quarter. Having to field without the Blakeney boys was a big handicap but we put in a great performance and were desperately unlucky not to reach the final.

Our defence was superb throughout the game with some great blocks put in and some perfectly timed tackles with keeper Owen Gillard a most steady presence in goals. Midfield took some time to get into the game but after the first quarter despite being physically smaller, they balanced out for the rest of the game. The forwards were starved of possession in the first quarter but won plenty of ball after that but this was an evening where too many chances were put wide.

We took the lead at the end of the third quarter when Oisín Flynn scored from an acute angle. In the final quarter Michaels broke up field and were very fortunate to win a free which they scored well and from the kickout won another free to lead. From there to the end we owned the ball but we failed to score despite a large number of chances.

The lads were very disappointed afterwards but the treats from the club afterwards made up somewhat for this.

In the skills competition Oisín Flynn, Colm Naughton and Dáire Barrins took part against 7 other teams and were unlucky again to finish in second position which was a great performance by the lads. The younger members of the team now prepare for the U11 league.

Team: Owen Gillard, Fergal Boland, Brian Durkan, Ruairí Gallagher, Colm Naughton, Dáire Barrins, Ronan Wilson, Jamie Reape, Oisín Flynn, James Tully, Daniel Ruane, Ross Gilmartin, Rian Winters

The annual festival took place over the weekend. Activities for all the family took place with a festival dance on Saturday night where the Rose of Castleconnor was held. Judges Gerry Guthrie, Annie Mae Reape and Con O'Meara had a very difficult job but eventually decided on Martina Naughton from Carns representing Barnes Kelly milk products.

Afterwards Gerry Guthrie played a great set and this was followed by Pats country roadshow until the wee hours.

The volunteers were up early for the 5k run/walk with the proceeds going to the North West hospice. The vintage car/tractor/cycle rally took place and finished as the kids amusements area was ready for use.

A large crowd surrounded the tvs for the hurling semifinal after which Betsy the cos was let off into the field and unlike last year took care of business in 15 short minutes. After measurements were taken the 8x€50 consolation prizes and the 8x€200 prizes were revealed. Finally the winner of the cow pat square was Isobel Hanley of Carns who took home the €1000 prize.

Thanks to all the patrons, supporters, suppliers, parishioners and all the volunteers who made this years festival a resounding success.

Enniscrone separates Castleconnor and Easkey and it was there that these teams met on Saturday evening for this fourth round clash. On a dry evening a strong wind blew into the Easkey end goals and Easkey played with this advantage in the first half.

The first half was a very cagey affair and there was no score until the 13th minute when Alan Cawley scored from play. This was followed by an Easkey score. We reacted well to this and after a strong run from John McDonnell and Kevin Langan, Alan Cawley finished to the roof of the net when one on one with the keeper. Easkey responded by scoring three points on the trot and should have also have had a goal. In the final 6 minutes of the half we scored two points from Paul Kilcullen and Niall Judge to lead at the break 1-3 v 0-5.

The teams traded scores at the beginning of the half but after 10 minutes we began to stretch away mainly due to Easkey giving away frees within scoring distance which Paul Kilcullen and Kevin Langan exploited. Niall Judge was carried off injured in the 50th minute when we lead by 6 and his replacement Stevie Curley finished to the net with his first touch and this was quickly followed by points from play from Kevin Langan and John McDonnell. In injury time Easkey scored 2 consolation points but we won comfortably and have now assured ourselves of a semi-final place in the competition.

Team: Anthony Kilcullen, Brendan Howley, David Fox, Tom Cawley, Martin Foody, Patrick Naughton, Keith Earlis, Paul Kilcullen (0-5), Michael Langan, John McDonnell(0-1), Kevin Langan(0-2), Alan Cawley(1-1), Brian Curley, Kevin McDonnell(0-1), Niall Judge(0-1). Subs: Alan Naughton, Stevie Curley(1-0), Brian Howley

The team have reached the B final for the third year in a row. We did not show our best in this game and should have had a lot more scores on the board. However the defence can be very happy with their games as the only score conceded was a close in free.

It took a lot of huff and puff before finally we got a score when Elliot Beardshall deflected a long delivery into the net. We hit a string of wides at this stage but eventually we got a second goal when Micheál Cahill drove an over the shoulder shot to the net. Drumcliffe broke down the field near the half time whistle and from a free drove to the roof of the net leaving the half time score 2-0 v 1-0.

We drove forward from the throw in but managed to squander a number of chances before Seán Carrabine scored a good long range point. This was followed moments later by a goal from Dáire Barrins who finished to the net after a good save by the visiting keeper.

We continued to control the game but did not put it on the scoreboard. At this time the defence of Ruairí Gallagher, James Boland, Brian Durkan, Kenneth Flynn and Jason Tuffy put in some great hooks and blocks. Stephen Tuffy put in a very hard hours work and was the perfect foil for Carrabine who scored two further great points from out far. Oisín Flynn was a great outlet for the defence with Micheál Cahill going on some great solo runs. Elliot Beardshall, Fergal Boland and Dáire Barrins kept the inside line busy but will have to take more of the chances the next day.

Team: Ruairí Gallagher, James Boland, Brian Durkan, Kenneth Flynn, Jason Tuffy, Seán Carrabine(0-3), Stephen Tuffy, Micheál Cahill(1-0), Oisín Flynn, Elliot Beardshall(1-0), Fergal Boland, Dáire Barrins(1-0)

This knockout game took place in Corballa on Wednesday evening. Thankfully the rain held off but there was a gale force wind directly across the pitch.

Ronan Wilson was absent but for the first time in 2 months we had Colm Naughton and Ruairí Gallagher back which was a great help. Both teams put on a great 4 quarters play considering the conditions. Andrew Blakeney had the first score of the quarter after being put through by his brother Matthew. Dáire Barrins scored a point from play after good work from Ruairí Gallagher and Oisín Flynn. At the end of the first quarter we trailed 2 v 3.

At the start of the second quarter we took control and got a range of scores from Dáire Barrins and Andrew Blakeney with Colm Naughton coming through the middle to score after a good pass from Jamie Reape. Ross Gilmartin made an excellent catch and was most unlucky when his effort went off the post. At the half time point we had moved into a good lead of 7 v 3.

Daniel Ruane and Rian Winters came on for the second half and they showed good awareness of their team mates finding them with passes. Owen Gillard was the goalie for the evening and was an excellent game and showed great calmness when under pressure. Oisín Flynn got the first score of the quarter which was our only score. At the end of the 3rd quarter we lead 8 v 5.

We soaked up a lot of pressure in the final quarter with Fergal Boland, Brian Durkan and Owen Gillard clearing their lines regularly. Dáire Barrins had his shot on goal saved but Daniel Ruane following up volleyed it to the net to give us a bit of breathing space. We deservedly held out for a 9 v 7 victory and next week play in the finals at Markievicz park. Well done to all the lads who worked extremely hard throughout the game.

Team: Owen Gillard, Brian Durkan, Fergal Boland, Colm Naughton(0-1), Ruairí Gallagher, Dáire Barrins(0-3), Andrew Blakeney(0-3), Oisín Flynn(0-1), Jamie Reape, Ross Gilmartin, Matthew Blakeney, Rian Winters, Daniel Ruane(0-1)

Cuilbeg in Carraroe was full of helter skelter and excitment as this game went down to the last kick of the game.

The first half was a close tight affair with both teams missing a good number of chances. The points we got where from good team work and men coming through the middle. Eoin Flynn, Alan Naughton and Ciarán Kilcullen scored our points at this time and at the half time break we trailed by 2 (5-3) but were still up on aggregate by 6 points.

Like the first half it was up and down with Eoin Flynn and Ciarán Kilcullen scoring points to maintain the aggregate advantage. Then Johns scored a goal into the top corner to tighten things. They scored the next two points. We got some relief when Alan Naughton scored from out on the right. Then with 5 minutes remaining Johns took the lead on aggregate with their second goal. It was a frantic finish with both sides having chances but not taking them.

Then Eoin Kent broke out of defence and sprinted close to 100m with the ball before offloading to Pat "Bomber" Cleary who drove to the net to put us in front. We held on for the final minute to snatch victory from seemingly defeat. Well done to the lads who played and travelled.

Team: Brian Feeney, Conor Judge, Ronan Barrett, Eoin Kent, Frank Barrett, Darragh Gilmartin, Alan Naughton(0-3), Morgan Fitzsimons, Ciarán Kilcullen(0-2), Eoin Flynn(0-2), Ultan McGranahan, Patrick Cleary(1-0), Bart Barrins, Shane Feeney

Kilcoyne Park was the venue for this third round fixture. A strong breeze blew into the mountain end and we played against it in the first half. It did not appear to affect us as we took control from the first minute with a point in the opening seconds from Niall Judge and this was quickly followed by a Kevin Langan point. We extended this lead further when Niall Judge finished to the top corner of the net. Curry responded with a point and then a goal and by the 13th minute we lead 1-5 v 1-2.

We added three more points from Kevin Langan and McDonnell. We had also lost Ronan Keane to a leg injury which saw Brendan Howley return to action after a long injury layoff. In the final 5 minutes of the half there was 3 goals, 2 for ourselves from Kevin Langan and Niall Judge to lead at halftime 3-10 v 2-4

The second half was a case of maintaining our lead and tacking on a few more scores. We scored a number of long range scores but also hit a good number of bad wides in the half. The defence improved in the second half but Anthony Kilcullen still was called on to push a pile driver onto the post. By the end of the game we had kept Curry scoreless in the second half and extended our lead to an easy winning margin of 3-19 v 2-4.

Next Saturday the team travel to Enniscrone where we take on west Sligo rivals Easkey at 6pm.

Team: Anthony Kilcullen, Ronan Keane, David Fox, Tom Cawley, Martin Foody(0-1), Patrick Naughton(0-1), Keith Earlis, Michael Langan, Paul Kilcullen(0-2), John McDonnell, Kevin Langan(1-6), Alan Cawley(0-1), Brian Curley(0-1), Kevin McDonnell(0-5), Niall Judge(2-2). Subs: Brian Howley, Stevie Kilgallon, Stevie Curley.

On Friday evening we had Mullinabreena as visitors to Corballa. The conditions were perfect for football.

The visitors got off the mark early and lead early on but we came back to equalise and then took the lead when Ronan Murphy scored a goal. We continued to score points with Seán Carrabine, Luke Munnelly and Odhrán Quinn scoring however as the half came to an end the visitors got through for a goal. This did not put our lads off and we went in at half time leading with a score of 1-9 v 2-3.

We got off to a blistering start in the second half and scored three goals in the opening minutes of the half when Ronan Murphy, Seán Carrabine and Luke Munnelly scored. This put us in the driving seat for the half as we were able to control the half and keep our visitors far enough away. Substitute James Tully did the hard work for Murphys third goal and his final was a tap in as Luke Munnelly shot was parried by the keeper.

This was a good night for the lads and management and was a well deserved victory.

Team:Kenneth Flynn, Fergal Boland, James Boland, Colm Naughton, Danny O'Hora, Ronan Coggins, Niall Judge, Seán Carrabine, Paul Flynn, Micheál Cahill, Luke Munnelly, Oisín Flynn, Odhrán Quinn, Ronán Murphy, Elliot Beardshall.Subs: Brian Mahoney, James Tully, John Hallinan, Dáire Barrins,

The Junior team got their championship campaign off to the best possible start with a good victory over St.Johns. Johns had come through a previous round and so were match fit whilst our lads were having our first game in a number of weeks.

It took us a while to get going and missed a number of easy points. The visitors score a point early and after 10 minutes we got our first score a point from Alan Naughton and this followed by a Ciarán Kilcullen goal after good work from Frank Barrett. The visitors score two more points to narrow the gap but Patrick Cleary drove a pile driver to the top of the net to put us more in front. This was followed right after with a point from the right by Bart Barrins after being put through by Colin Gordon. Darragh Gilmartin scored a great point as did Frank Barrett before the break leaving the score 2-4 v 0-5.

The visitors had a good start to the resumption scoring two quick points however a purple spell midway through the half increased our lead. Bart Barrins put Colin Gordon clear and he was dangerously felled as he shot on goal resulting in a penalty. When Gordon got up he planted the penalty to the net. Good play on the left from Kelly, Kilcullen and Gordon saw Barrins tripped to the ground and from the resultant free Patrick Cleary was there to finish Bod Kellys punch to the net. Johns went down the field and were very lucky to win a penalty, it was a free but inside the parallelogram, not sure. Eoin Flynn and Doogie Kilcullen scored points to kept the gap in place.

Ronan Carrabine, Barrett and Conor Judge were very solid at the back and Darragh Gilmartin, Frank Barrett and Ultan McGranahan kept driving forward throughout. Stork Feeney came on and his pace helped the tiring forward line. We did come back and points from Morgan Fitzsimons and one from Alan Naughton after a driving run through the centre brought the game to an end with us leading by 8 for the second leg which will be away to Johns.

Team:Brian Feeney, Conor Judge, Ronan Carrabine, Ronan Barrett, Ultan McGranahan, Frank Barrett(0-1), Darragh Gilmartin(0-1), John Cullen, Alan Naughton(0-1), Bart Barrins(0-1), Eoin Flynn(0-1), Ciarán Kilcullen(1-1), Barnes Kelly, Colin Gordon(0-1), Patrick Cleary(2-0) Subs: Shane Feeney, Morgan Fitzsimons(0-1)

For the third time in three weeks the two teams again locked horns in the first round of the championship. Having played each other only two evenings before there was a fear that the teams may not be up for the game but the large crowd were treated to an excellent hour of football from two evenly matched teams.

We trailed early on but a goal from Michael Cahill and an excellent point from Luke Munnelly brought us back to parity. Soon after Ronan Murphy scored an excellent goal after selling two great dummies. But the visitors fought back and by the half time break we were losing 2-5 v 2-2 with Sean Carrabine getting the other point.

We scored two quick points after the break from Odhran Quinn and Luke Munnelly. The team traded goals at this point, ours coming from Sean Carrabine. A crazy three minute spell where we let in 3 goals put us 13 points down but our lads fought back to bring the score back to 3 points with a minute to go with an excellent pile driver from Paul Flynn. However we lost the kickout and Ballymote went up the field to score a goal to secure the game.

Team: Kenneth Flynn, Niall Judge, James Boland, Ronan Coggins, Benny Foody, Danny O'Hora, Sean Carrabine, Paul Flynn, Odhran Quinn, Luke Munnelly, Michael Cahill, Elliot Beardshall, Ronan Murphy. Subs: Oisin Flynn, Dáire Barrins, Brian Mahoney, Fergal Boland, Brian Durkan, James Tully, Colm Naughton

The final took place in Tourlestrane on Wednesday evening in front of a large attendance. When the two teams met in the league our opponents defeated us quite comprehensively.

This night things would be different. We stormed into a 2-5 v 0-2 lead early on with new full forward Ronan Murphy beginning to cause havoc. Ballymote fought back and then went in front. A strong end to the half by our team meant we lead at half time with some excellent free taking from the ground by Sean Carrabine and great play from Paul Flynn and Benny Foody.

Luke Munnelly and Murphy continued to cause havoc when we were on the attack and with our defenders Danny O'Hora, Niall Judge, James Boland and Ronan Coggins tightening up and Kenneth Flynn pulling off some great saves meant we were in the ascendency coming towards the end. Micheal Cahill, Elliot Beardshall, Odhran Quinn supplying the bombs to Murphy who ended up with 7 goals and 4 points to his credit at the end when we were crowned champions and in the process managed to retain our title.

At the end of the game there was great celebrations and John Niland presented Seán Carrabine the cup there was great scenes of joy.

Congrats to the squad, management Frank Barrett and Brian Howley.

Team: Kenneth Flynn, Niall Judge, James Boland, Ronan Coggins, Benny Foody, Danny O'Hora, Sean Carrabine, Paul Flynn, Odhran Quinn, Luke Munnelly, Michael Cahill, Elliot Beardshall, Ronan Murphy. Subs: Oisin Flynn, Dáire Barrins, Brian Mahoney, Fergal Boland, Brian Durkan, James Tully, Colm Naughton

Despite the scoreline this was a much improved performance from the team and the third quarter proved to be the time when the game was lost. It was a messy evening in Dromard but the most encouraging aspect was the fightback the team made in the final quarter.

We put in a good shift in the first quarter and finished it trailing 5 v 2 with our scores coming from Andrew Blakeney and Oisin Flynn. in the second quarter with a little more effort we stayed in touch and turned over at ht 8 v 5 down with our scores coming from Dáire Barrins, Ronan Wilson, and another from Oisin Flynn.

The third quarter was were it all went wrong where we failed miserably to match our opponents turning over trailing 15 v 5. The lads redeemed themselves in the fourth quarter with some great linkup play and good tackles being put in throughout the pitch, losing 7 v 18 with scores coming from Oisin Flynn and a well worked point from James Tully after good interplay with Matthew Blakeney.

Our next game is away to Geevagh

Team: Ross Gilmartin, Owen Gillard, Fergal Boland, Brian Durkan, Dáire Barrins, Andrew Blakeney, Ronan Wilson, Rian Winters, Oisin Flynn, Matthew Blakeney, James Tully.

The team travelled to Tourlestrane on Monday evening with a depeleted squad and despite the scoreline were in with a chance of winning till the last 5 minutes when the wheels came off the bus.

After the home side got the first few scores we came back and took the lead with goals from Matthew Cullen and Oisín Durkan. However the home side took over for the second part of the half and went in at halftime leading 3-7 v 2-1.

We came into the game more and goals Matthew Cullen with an effort after a storming 50m run past 6 defenders and points from Jason Earlis, Jack O'Hora and Lewis Beardshall and another Cullen goal brought the team back to 4-5 v 4-9. But as said previously things fell apart in the last 5 minutes.

Team: David Ginty, Stephen Durkan, Benny Foody, Jack O'Hora, Conor Gallagher, Eoin Kilcullen, Jason Earlis, Lewis Beardshall, Cian Barrins Oisin Durkan, Elliot Beardshall, Matthew Cullen, Sean Carrabine

Tubbercurry were visitors to Corballa on Tuesday evening. Between holidays and injuries we had the bare 11 players but the lads put in a good effort throughout. We got off to a good start when a tackle by Brian Durkan and Paul Ruane spilled to Owen Gillard who then first timed the sliotar to the net. Tubber then took over with their greater physical strength and popped over three good scores from distance. Coming up to the halftime break they put over two quick scores but we responded with an Oisín Flynn point after Ronán Wilson was fouled to leave the break at 5 v 2.

The visitors piled on the pressure and scored two quick points however a foul on Cian Flynn saw his brother Oisín score the resultant free. Fergal Boland and Ross Gilmartin were clearing many balls from defence with great assistance from Daniel Ruane. Dáire Barrins was then fouled and Oisín scored again to finish the game as 8 v 4.

Team: Rian Winters, Daniel Ruane, Fergal Boland, Ross Gilmartin, Dáire Barrins, Oisín Flynn(3), Ronan Wilson, Brian Durkan, Paul Ruane, Cian Flynn, Owen Gillard(1)

The under 16 team got their championship campaign off to a great start with a comprehensive victory over Geevagh last evening at St. Brendan's GAA Park in Corballa.

In dull and breezy conditions, Geevagh who played with the elements in the first half started the brighter scoring 1-2after 6 minutes. We got on the score sheet on 11 minutes with a good goal from Ronan Coggins followed by the same from Matthew Cullen and a great score from Jason Earlis on his left foot. The teams traded scores and we led at the interval 4-1 to 2-2 with the other two goals coming from the boot of Sean Carrabine.

Indeed it wasnt just the men who were scoring that were on form, our rearguard were superb throughout and this was evident on the first half when we kept the opposition limited with the breeze.

The team kicked on in the second half with other scores from Lewis Beardshaw and goals from subs Oisin Durkan and Dominic Murphy.

Next up is a tough assignment when we are visitors to Tourlestrane next Monday evening.

Team: D. McGinty, S. Durkan, J. O Hora(1-0), B. Foody, C. Gallagher, E. Kilcullen, K. Foody, J. Earlis(0-3),L. Beardshaw(0-1), C. Barrins, M. Cullen(3-2), R. Coggins(1-0), S. Carrabine(2-1), D. Murphy (1-0), O. Durkan(1-0).

-16/U-18:

The U-16 team were down to host Geevagh in the opening round of the B

Championship on Monday. It was postponed last week. Next Monday we are

visitors in Tourlestrane for round 2.

The minor team will open their A2 Championship campaign on Thursday

26th July when they host Coolaney/Mullinabreena.

Good Wishes:

We wish Ruairi Gallagher and Colm Naughton speedy recoveries from

their recent injuries.

Well Done/Good Luck:

Well done to the Sligo ladies on capturing the Intermediate Connacht

title at the weekend. Best wishes to the Senior team in Hyde Park next

Sunday against Mayo. Lets hope another Connacht title is coming back

to the Yeats County within the week. Well Done to the Sligo U-16's on

their emphatic victory over Offaly last week and finally

congratulations to neighbours Easkey/St. Farnan's on capturing an All

Ireland title at Feile na nGael.

Cow Dung Festival: Our novel festival returns this year on the 18/19th

August with many events taking place over the weekend. Gerry Guthrie

and his country band are the main act on the Saturday night when they

take to the wonderful new stage in the Community Centre. More details

in the coming weeks.

The U-14 team had a comprehensive victory over Drumcliffe in the

League shield semi final played at Oxfield Park last Friday night.

Well done to the team and best of luck to them in the final. The U-12

team were defeated by Ballymote on Tuesday evening last. The hurlers

are at home to Tubbercurry on Tuesday at 7.30pm.

The team maintained their unbeaten home record for the year when they

defeated Coolera/Strandhill in the final round of the league in

Corballa on Sunday afternoon. The last time we met the North Sligo

side we won by the narrowest of margins in the Benson Cup Final. This

time the result was in our favour again with the side delivering a

good team performance. Playing with the elements in the opening

period, We went ahead 3-0 after ten minutes, and the visitors replied

with two points in quick succession. At the interval we were 0-8 v 0-4

to the good and we picked up the pace in the seconf half. Two goals in

a second half purple patch paved the way to victory for the team. 2-11

v 0-5 was the final score, with star performances from Keith Earlis,

Kevin McDonnell, and Ronan Keane. We just missed out on promotion to

Division 1 for next season by the narrowest of margins.

Coolera/Strandhill who topped the table were presented with the Cup

after the game.

Team on duty: Anthony Kilcullen, Ronan Keane, David Fox, Tom Cawley,

Martin Foody, David Carrabine, Keith Earlis, Pat Naughton, Paul

Kilcullen, John McDonnell, Kevin Langan, Brian Howley, Brian Curley,

Kevin Mc Donnell, Niall Judge.

Subs: S. Curley, M. Langan, J. Tuffy, S. Kilgannon, A. Naughton

The Junior team travel to take on St. Farnan's next Friday.

The intermediate team made the journey to Keash on Sunday afternoon to

take on Eastern Harps in the division 2 league. This was a good game

which tested the character of the team. We led by 2 points, 1-6 to 0-7

at the interval and found ourselves trailing by 3 points in the second

half when poor mistakes proved costly. The team worked hard showing

endeavour and determination scoring 1-17 to Eastern Harps 3-8. Our

scores coming from Paul Kilcullen, John and Kevin McDonnell, Kevin

Langan, Niall Judge, Stephen Kilgannon, Patrick Naughton with Steve

Curley registering his first senior point. Next Sunday we host

Coolera/Strandhill in Corballa @ 2.00pm.

A very understrength Junior team were defeated by Owenmore Gaels at the weekend.

The team on duty put in a good effort against a strong opposition.

The U14 hurlers made the long trip to Oxfield worthwhile when recording their first victory of the year. At almost full strenght we needed a win and won deservedly.

We raced into the lead with a Seán Carrabine point from play and this was quickly followed by a Odhrán Quinn goal from distance. Micheál Cahill was playing his first game of hurling but you would not know it as he laid on Seán for another point from play. Brian Durkan had an effort saved and from the resulting 65, Elliot Beardshall diverted the sliotar to the net. A pass from Benny Foody put Seán C through and he finished to the top of the net. It was at this point that the home team got into the match and scored a good goal. We responded with a point but two goals from two close in frees brought the teams a lot closer as we hit halftime we lead 3-4 v 3-0.

As with the first half we got off to a good start with a goal from Seán Carrabine and this was quickly followed by a point from play from Elliot Beardshall after good work from Kenneth Flynn and Stephen Tuffy. Jason Tuffy was commanding around the half back line as he needed to be with James Boland first time clearances a big reliever at full back. Ruairí Gallagher was called on to make a fine save as the home side pressed. Odhrán Quinn at this time began to find space and was always available to collect the ball from defence. We finished the stronger and won 4-6 v 3-1.

Team: Ruairí Gallagher, Kenneth Flynn, James Boland, Benny Foody, Jason Tuffy, Seán Carrabine (2-4), Stephen Tuffy, Micheál Cahill, Odhrán Quinn (1-0), Brian Durkan, Elliot Beardshall(1-1), Dáire Barrins, Fergal Boland

A beautiful evening for this fixture on Tuesday evening when we welcomed Glencar-Manorhamilton for the first time to Corballa. Colm Naughton was not able to play after getting his appendix out but the lads despite the score put in a good performance.

Glencar took the initiative right from the whistle and had the game won early on as it took our team 15mins to start to play. From that point to the end we put on a great show as well as the visitors.Rian Winters was overworked in goals but his puckouts were impressive throughout. Liam Donnegan, Ross Gilmartin, and Fergal Boland kept a tight rein on their opposite numbers whilst in the middle Ruairí Gallagher, Dáire Barrins and Ronan Wilson showed good striking from sidelines and frees along with Oisín Flynn. Owen Gillard, Brian Durkan and Daniel Ruane were onto any lose ball and made it tought for defenders.

At the halftime break we trailed 13-1. Oisin Flynn scored a 65 for us and Owen Gillard and Ronan Wilson got the other two scores. The lads showed great heart and for the first time all year each and every player on the team got the sliotar into their hands at least once and got to strike the ball regularly.

Thanks to Glencar-Manor and their management for an enjoyable evening and to the referee Malachy Maher who let the lads know what was happening at all times.

Team: Rian Winters, Liam Donnegan, Fergal Boland, Ross Gilmartin, Ruairí Gallagher, Dáire Barrins, Ronán Wilson, Oisín Flynn, Brian Durkan, Daniel Ruane, Owen Gillard.

Sunday evening after the Sligo minor game saw Tubbercurry arrive in Corballa. The conditions were perfect for a game and our lads got off to a great start when we goaled in 30 seconds from Kevin McDonnell. He followed this up two minutes later with a point from play. We were dominant at this stage and the Tubber keeper made a number of great saves. Paul Kilcullen scored a monster point from out in midfield but then Tubber took over and made inroads into our lead. John McDonnell had to leave the field after taking a heavy knock to the head and was replaced by Stevie Kilgannon. We scored two points before the halftime break with points from Niall Judge and a Kevin Langan free leaving the scores equal at the break 1-4 v 0-7.

Tubber missed two frees early in the second half and we eventually broke the deadlock with a Kevin Langan point from play in the 10th minute. Niall Judge followed this up with a point from play . Tubber brought the scores level with 10 minutes to go but despite losing our captain Kevin Langan with an ankle injury our lads stepped up their efforts and great long range points from Brian Curley, Stevie Kilgannon put us up. Again Tubber pulled it back but two final points from play from Michael Langan and Niall Judge put us in front and after 7 minutes of injury time the referee blew the final whistle.

It was great to see the younger members of the team step up when we came under pressure with Alan Naughton, Crouch Howley, Stevie Kilgannon, Martin Foody, Keith Earlis and keeper Anthony Kilcullen all shining. Next game is away to Eastern Harps away.

Team: Anthony Kilcullen, Ronan Keane, Alan Naughton, Tom Cawley, Keith Earlis, David Carrabine, Martin Foody, Paul Kilcullen(0-1), Michael Langan(0-1), John McDonnell, Kevin Langan(0-3), Brian Howley, Brian Curley(0-1), Kevin McDonnell(1-1), Niall Judge(0-3). Subs, Stevie Kilgannon(0-1), David Fox.

The team made the long journey to Geevagh on Friday evening with the bare team as the graduation in Enniscrone limited the squad. The lads made light work of it though and we saw Arthur Beardshall playing in the forward line.

Goals from Patrick Cleary and Stevie Curley proved the difference between the sides as our lads won out deservedly 2-9 v 0-13.

This was an interesting game on Wednesday evening. We got off to a great start with two early goals from full forward Elliot Beardshall. However we were pinned back to our goal line for the rest of the half and by the time the whistle went of halftime we trailed 6-9 v 2-0.

Early in the second half we got a great score from Odhran Quinn and this was followed by a sending off for an opposition player and we began to take over but the Ballymote keeper was nearly unbeatable as he made a string of amazing saves throughout the half. Seán Carrabine eventually got one by him.

It was tough on our lads but at least they kept going in the second half and kept the crowd happy with their never say die spirit.

We made the long journey to Oxfield on Tuesday evening minus a good number of our panel. It took the young lads two quarters to realise they were in a game. At the end of the first quarter we trailed 5 v 1 with our sole score coming from Dáire Barrins after an interchange of passes from Ronan Wilson and Oisin Flynn. The second quarter was the worst one of the game and we ended up at the halftime break 11 v 1.

At this point our team began to play football and to play as a team. We started to put in some good tackles and put some very good movements together. Owen Gillard put over a good score after a good pass from James Tully and Jamie Reape and losing this quarter 2 v 1.

In the final quarter we continued with our good play with Ruairí Gallagher, Brian Durkan, Ross Gilmartin and Fergal Boland. Spurred on by the older lads Daniel Ruane cleared two balls off the line. We got one final score from Oisin Flynn and yet again only lost this quarter by one score.

Team: Brian Durkan, Ross Gilmartin, Fergal Boland, Daniel Ruane, Ruairí Gallagher, Dáire Barrins, Ronan Wilson, Jamie Reape, Oisín Flynn, James Tully, Owen Gillard

We traveled to Clonnacool on Friday evening for this second round game hoping to continue in our quest to qualify for the quarter finals of the intermediate championship. Denied our two county minors and three other players doing leaving cert exams till 5:30pm for the fixture was a blow but the squad showed that there is plenty of talent in this group of players.

We got off to a good start with Niall Judge showing brillantly and scoring on the turn and this was followed with a point from corner back Tom Cawley on a driving run up the field. However Harps played themselves back into the game and in the 14th minute went into the lead 0-3 v 0-2. We then hit a purple patch with us winning 7 kickouts in a row and scoring 6 points on the trot with points from play from Kevin Langan, Niall Judge and Paul Kilcullen who also chipped in with two points from frees. At this point we missed two clearcut goal chances when taking a pass too many. We had extended the lead to 0-11 v 0-3 with Harps scoring from a free on the whistle for half time with the score 0-11 v 0-4.

We started the second half like a train with two quick points from Naill Judge and Kevin Langan to extend our lead. With these scores we appeared to ease off and Eastern Harps took advantage of this/ Anthony Killcullen made an excellent double save which resulted in a point. Harps now took a stranglehold of the game and cut the score to three points after a fine goal to the corner of the net.

We responded well to this challenge and Alan Cawley drove over the bar and this was followed by a Brian Curley score from play. Stephen Kilgallon was introduced at this point and he made an impact when diverting the ball to Alan Cawley who drove through the Harps defence and to the roof of the net. Young Stevie Curley came on and made an immediate impact with a pass to Niall Judge who finished with a haul of 5 points from play.

The team played well throughout the game but like the Enniscrone game a 10 minute spell after halftime was a time for worry. The large score from play was a good sign and the effort put in by the team in the last few weeks was given its reward.

Team: Anthony Killcullen, Tom Cawley(0-1), David Fox, Ronan Keane, Martin Foody, Patrick Naughton, David Carrabine, Michael Langan, Paul Kilcullen(0-3), John McDonnell, Kevin Langan(0-5), Alan Cawley(1-1), Brian Curley(0-1), Brian Howley, Niall Judge(0-5). Subs Steven Kilgallon, Stevie Curley.

The team played Molaise Gaels on Friday evening at home. We got off to a slow start and were down five points after 15 minutes. However we never panicked and despite missing three major players we were only

trailing narrowly at the break.

We continued to whittle the lead down and with 10 minutes remaing the score stood 2-8 v 3-7. At this point

we missed two good chances to get in front and the effort drained the lads as the visitors scored a fortuitous goal to restore their lead and they finished strongly to win 4- 12 v 2-7.

Team: Elliot Beardshall, Fergal Boland, James Boland, Niall Judge, Ronan Murphy, Danny O'Hora, Brendan Foody, Sean Carrabine, Michael Cahill, Dáire Barrins, Luke Munnelly, Colm Naughton, Oisin Flynn, Kenneth Flynn, Brian Mahoney. Subs:David Coggins, John Hallinan

The team travelled to Ballisodare on Tuesday evening. There was disappointment when the homeside could only field 8 players which meant we played two quarters with our older players and two with out younger players.

After the first quarter we lead 0-3 v 0-2 in a tight and tense affair. In the next we took over and played some excellent football and lead at the half 0-10 v 0-3.

We then had to make wholesale changes and in the third quarter we suffered and ended it on the wrong side 0-12 v 0-10. The young lads put in a better effort in the last quarter but fell short at 0-15 v 0-12.

Team: Brian Durkan, Ross Gimartin, Andrew Blakeney, James Tully, Colm Naughton, Ronan Wilson, Ruairí Gallagher, Oisín Flynn, Fergal Boland, David Coggins, Dáire Barrins, Owen Gillard, Liam Donnegan, Rian Winters, Daniel Ruane, Matthew Blakeney.

This year the two Clarke brothers Patrick and Ciarán are taking part in the Tour of Ireland Rás.

The club wish them all the best

Patrick is keeping a blog on it for the Irish Examiner and can be found here

http://sport.irishexaminer.com/?tag=/patrick+clarke

The lads played their first game of the year at Hazelwood and emerged victorious.

At the end of the fist quarter we lead 3 v 1 and once our experienced lads got into the game we began to take over in the middle of the field with the lads showing some nice wrist and stick work to win 8 v 1.

The next game is on Tuesday when Tourlestrane are visitors to Corballa.

A dismal performance from the team was duly punished by the visiting Calry team who emerged victorious.

We started slowly and did not lead until the second half. Each time we did take the lead we were pegged back by a goal.

The visitors held onto their one point lead to the end for a deserved victory. The team are now out of action till the championship in July

This game played on Monday evening was a real see saw affair with the lead changing regularly.

The visitors got off to a good start and by the halftime break were leading by 2 points.

At the start of the second half we hit a purple patch and scored two quick goals from Jack O'Hora. However we let in a soft goal right after this and our lead was down to 3 with the visitors tails up. They proceeded to cut into and take the lead but our lads kept in the game and a missed free with a minute to go was to prove costly as Ballymote went down the field to stretch the lead to two and win by the same margin.

This was a good performance from the team with the loss of Matthew Cullen proving a major handicap but strong performances from Jack O'Hora, Benny Foody and Dominic Murphy showed signs of hope for the championship

Sunday evening in a wet and blustery Corballa we played the seventh round of the division 2 league with Curry as visitors.

We played against the elements in the first half but got on the scoresheet early with points from John McDonnell and Stevie Kilgallon. This was followed quickly by a well worked goal for Brian Howley. A number of Kevin Langan points was followed by an excellent team goal with Kevin McDonnell putting Niall Judge in for a goal. Just before the half time break Tom Cawley made a strong break out of defence played a number of passes and ended up finishing the ball to the net. The halftime score was 3-7 v 0-3.

In the second with the strong wind behind us it took us a while to get going but points from Brian Howley and Kevin McDonnell eased us into the half. Patrick Naughton then broke out of defence and drove a

powerful drive to the roof to the net to make the game safe. Kevin Langan finished off with a number of points leaving us with a win of 4-13 v 0-3.

Team: A.Kilcullen, J.Tuffy, D.Fox, T.Cawley(1-0), M.Foody, P.Naughton(1-0), K.Earlis, M.Langan, P.Kilcullen, J.McDonnell(0-1), K.Langan(0-9), S.Kilgallon(0-1), Brian Howley(1-1), K.McDonnell(0-1),

N.Judge(1-0). Subs: E.Flynn, F.Barrett.

The team are now preparing for their first round championship match against Enniscrone in two weeks

time.

The team were in action in Kent Park on Friday evening. The team were short a good number of lads but were in with a shout until the final 15 minutes.

In the first half we played a good possession game and were running well off the ball into positions of danger but our final efforts did not yield a great return. At halftime we were losing 1-5 v 0-3.

We missed an early free but two Stevie Curley efforts brought us back into the game. At this point the home team got a handy goal when a free drifted all the way to the net. Arthur Beardshall made a few good saves but could do nothing with the next goal. John Cullen had to come off at this stage to be replaced by the "Stork" Shane Feeney.

A great piece of tigerish play saw Vincent Howley intercept and play in Stevie Kilgallon who then left the "Stork" with a one on one with the keeper where for the first time this year he hit the net and proceeded to do a lap of honour on his sweet strike. However this did not stop the home team who drove home the advantage in the last few minutes.

Team: Arthur Beardshall, Alan Naughton, Ultan McGranahan, Conor Judge, Eoin Kent, John Cullen, Frank Barrett, Ciarán Kilcullen, Stevie Kilgallon, Stevie Curley, Vincent Howley, Patrick Cleary, Paul Sweeney, Brian Howley

Friday evening in Oxfield our U14 lads tried in vain in their game versus a much more physically stronger team. However they never let their effort drop and showed some very good touches.

As with all games this year they were slow to get going and seemed to be intimidated by the opposition. Getting the ball past halfway was an issue but when we did it did look like the forward line could do some damage. After James Tully was fouled Sean Carrabine pointed and another score before the break left us trailing 0-2 v 2-4.

We made a very good start to the second half and scored a goal from Sean Carrabine. The home keeper at this time made a few great saves. The greater physical strength of the home team came to the fore then and our keeper Elliot Beardshall and some stout defending from Danny O'Hora, Ronan Gallagher and Niall Judge kept the scoreline close. We won a number of frees near the end but went for goal. The lads will be disappointed with the result but they showed enough that would give management Frank Barrett and Brian Howley hope for the future games.

Team: E.Beardshall, Fergal Boland, Ronan Coggins, Niall Judge, Danny O'Hora, James Boland, Ronan Gallagher, Mícheál Cahill, Benny Foody, Dáire Barrins, Seán Carrabine, Colm Naughton, James Tully, Odhrán Quinn, Brian Mahoney. Subs: Brian Durkan, David Coggins

On Wednesday evening the first hurling game of the year for Castleconnor club took place at the new Tourlestrane training grounds. It was a fine evening for a game but we were missing on two of our players to call on.

We got off to a good start and all was going well when we took the lead through a Odhran Quinn free after Elliot Beardshall had been fouled. Benny Foody and the Tuffy brothers were playing some excellent hurling with great hooking and blocking. At the halftime break we went in losing 1-1 v 0-1 with the home keeper making an excellent save on the whistle.

An opening salvo from Tourlestrane put us in a bad position despite the superb goalkeeping of Ruairí Gallagher with the Boland brother and Ross Gilmartin showing some good defensive touchs. The young forward line of Dáire Barrins, Kenneth Flynn and Brian Durkan kept plugging away and were successful in the end when Elliot Beardshall put the sliotar into the home net.

T

On Tuesday evening St.Michaels were visitors to Corballa for this first round game. With a small squad and most of them involved in either U10 or U14 teams the preparation for the team has not been ideal.

On a good evening for football the team playing under the Go Game rules were out of the blocks first a number of attacks when James Tully put us in front. The visitors equalised but a score just before the end of the quarter from by Brian Durkan left us leading at the break 0-2 v 0-1.

Making sure that all squad members get to play 2 quarters meant the team was quite different in each quarter. Owen Gillard came in and scored two points. James Tully followed up his earlier score with another. Oisin Flynn scored also after good play from Colm Naughton and Ronan Wilson. Stout defending from Fergal Boland, David Coggins, Daniel Ruane and Ross Gilmartin kept the visitors at bay whilst the strong running of Dáire Barrins and Andrew Blakeney kept us on the attack. At the end of the third quarter we lead 0-6 v 0-3.

With a very young team in the last quarter including Liam Donnegan, Rian Winters and the fast Matthew Blakeney and some excellent defending by Ruairí Gallagher we managed to keep Michaels scoreless in the last quarter and finished stronger with a final score from Andrew Blakeney.

Team:Liam Donnegan, Ross Gilmartin, Fergal Boland, David Coggins, Daniel Ruane, Rian Winters, Colm Naughton, Ruairí Gallagher, Ronán Wilson, Andrew Blakeney, Oisín Flynn, Dáire Barrins, Matthew Blakeney, Owen Gillard, James Tully, Brian Durkan

Lotto:

The lotto jackpot stands at €16,500 as there was no winner of the draw

at the weekend. Results will be available next week and should be on

our website today.

Intermediate:

The team resume to league action with a home fixture against Curry

this Saturday evening @ 7.30pm.

Hurling:

The U-14 team travel to Tourlestrane for the opening round of the

league on Wednesday at 7pm.

U-12:

The u-12 team commence league action on Tuesday with a home fixture to

St. Michaels, and the following Tuesday away to Ballisodare.

U8/10:

We travelled to Easkey last week and both sides gave excellent

performances. Thanks to all the parents for supporting.

Well Done:

To the Sligo Seniors on their win in New York and hopefully all the

Castleconnor Gaels that headed out for it had a good time.

The team had a hard fought victory over a gallant Curry side on

Thursday evening at Corballa. The sides were level at the break at 0-5

a piece but we pulled away towards the end of the match. Castleconnor

1-9 v 0-8 Curry. The team are through to the league semi final with a

tough assignment at home on Thursday evening when we welcome Calry to

St. Brendan's GAA Park for a 7:00pm throw in. Best of luck to the

team.

The team played out a thrilling draw with St. John's in Corballa on

Sunday evening in the league. St. John's got off to a flyer and led by

6 at the interval. The team plucked away at the St. John's lead and we

went on front by the narrowest of margins with ten minutes remaining.

Johns werent giving in at this stage and went ahead by two in the

closing stages but our lads fought hard to get the draw. The team will

be glad of the draw, but will rue missed opportunities. The team

registered some excellent scores throughout this exciting encounter

and this showed on the scoreline. Castleconnor 2-13 v 5-04 St. Johns.

E. Beardshaw, C. Naughton, J. Boland, K. Flynn, B. Foody, R. Coggins,

S. Carrabine, M. Cahill, N. Judge, K. Flynn, O. Quinn, O. Flynn, J.

Tully, L. Munnelly, D. Barrins ,Subs: B. Mahoney, B. Durkan, R.

Gallagher, J. Hallinan. Next Friday evening we are visitors to Oxfield

Park to take on Drumcliffe.

The division 4 team were defeated by a much stronger Drumcliffe side

in the third round of the league on Friday evening at Corballa. The

team were missing a number of regulars however we did put in a good

effort and it was a good runout for the team. Castleconnor 1-7 v 7-14

Drumcliffe.

On Saturday evening we made the short journey to Quigabar. A strong wind blew into the town goal and we played against it in the first half. There was a number of changes to the team from last week with the Langans and Kevin McDonnell unavailable. Rory Healy was home from his offshore duties and stepped right into midfield.

Like all games this year we were very slow to get going and after 4 minutes we were 3 points down. We got our first score from a Paul Kilcullen free and this was followed by a Tom Cawley point. By the 8th minute we had equalised with a Niall Judge score. Enniscrone however used the wind advantage to great effect and soon lead again. In the 16th minute they made the significant break through with a goal that was a bad one for our defence who let the scorer run 30m without being tackled. They remained in charge up to the break and scored 3 points in the last few minutes of the half to lead 1-8 v 0-3.

We got the first score of the second half from a Patrick Naughton long range effort, but a few stray efforts after this did not help matters. In the 39th minute in a break down the field we managed to break up the attack but two bad passes in out defence ended with an interception and Enniscrone scored a goal.

We were still not contesting with conviction the breaking or loose ball and now with a good lead to defend the Enniscrone lads were winning most of this ball. Niall Judge put over a number of frees for us but we never looked liked pulling this one out of the bag and this was shown with the fact that we never had a shot on goal for the entire game. The game petered out to the end with a final score of 2-8 v 0-8.

This was a very poor display from the lads and they now have three weeks to rectify the situation when we meet the same opposition in the first round of the intermediate championship.

Team: Anthony Kilcullen, Brendan Howley, David Carrabine, Ronan Keane, David Fox, Patrick Naughton(0-1), Martin Foody, Rory Healy, Paul Kilcullen(0-1), John McDonnell(0-1), Alan Cawley, Tom Cawley(0-1), Brian Howley, Stevie Kilgallon, Niall Judge(0-4).Subs: Keith Earlis, Ronan Carrabine, Paul Sweeney

Castleconnor got their first win of the year in this clash on Friday evening at Corballa. Managers Frank Barrett and Gerry Curley had a strong panel to call on with a full subs bench.

We got off to a good start with a goal from Paul Sweeney after clever play from a quick free from Eoin Flynn and Stevie Curley. This was followed by two points before a two goal salvo in a minute from Patrick Cleary and Eoin Flynn pushed us into a commanding lead which we maintained till the halftime break with the score of 3-3 v 0-3.

Half time substitute Ciarán "Doogie" Kilcullen scored two monster points after coming on with other points from Paul Sweeney, Eoin Flynn, Darragh Gilmartin, John Cullenand another from Doogie (watch out Tap!!) after strong play from Kieran Naughton, Ronan Carrabine and Eoin Kent in defence. Shane Feeney, aka the Stork came close on two occasions to goaling but Junior healy finally scored with a nice shot to the corner of the net.

This was a great team performance with another of debutants in Arthur Beardshall, Conor Judge and Eoin Kent.

Team: Arthur Beardshall, Alan Naughton, Kieran Naughton, Ronan Carrabine, Eoin Kent, Frank Barrett, John Cullen, Rory Healy, Stevie Curley, Eoin Flynn, Vincent Howley, Patrick Cleary, Paul Sweeney, Ciarán Kilcullen, Shane Feeney, Darragh Gilmartin, Conor Judge, Michael Jones, Ultan McGranahan

This rescheduled game took place on Tuesday evening. We had to start without star forward Matthew Cullen. The visitors made a great start and reeled off a number of points off before we moved up the field. Coming up to the halftime break we trailed by 12 but good a goal just before the break to leave the score to 1-1 v 1-8.

The second half was an even affair with chances at both ends being very plentiful. The visitors extended the lead however our lads showed good heart and scored goals from Jack O'Hora and Jason Earlis after a penalty won by Dominic Murphy. Despite our best efforts we could not narrow the score and we ended up losing by 7.

Team: G.Ginty, R.Coggins, B.Foody, K.Foody, J.O'Hora, E.Kilcullen, C.Gallagher, J.Earlis, C.Barrins, S.Carrabine, D.Murphy, Lewis Beardshall,

Drumcliffe were visitors to Corballa on Sunday for the fifth round of the division 2 league. Just like the Benson cup final we started very slowly and trailed 1-2 v 0-0 after 10 minutes.

We slowly began to get a grip around the middle of the field and started to eat into the lead with points from John McDonnell, Niall Judge and Kevin Langan and McDonnell. A very well worked goal from our defence ended with Kevin McDonnell finishing to the net.

We had hit a purple patch and racked up a good number of scores from Michael and Kevin Langan, Kevin McDonnell and Niall Judge. Just at the halftime whistle Kevin Langan intercepted a defensive pass, played it to McDonnell who put Niall Judge in for a goal to leave us in command at the break 2-10 v 1-2.

The visitors scored the first two points of the half though it was an even half our commanding lead helped to ease us through the half comfortably with Paul Kilcullen and Alan Cawley scoring during the half. We finished winners 2-16 v 1-7.

Team: Anthony Kilcullen, Brendan Howley, David Carrabine, Ronan Keane, Martin Foody, Patrick Naughton, David Fox, Michael Langan(0-1), Paul Kilcullen(0-2), Alan Cawley(0-1), Kevin Langan(0-4), John McDonnell(0-1), Tom Cawley, Kevin McDonnell(1-4), Niall Judge(1-2). Subs: Stephen Kilgallon, Frank Barrett, Brian Howley, Eoin Flynn.

Next weekend we travel to neighbours Enniscrone for a Saturday evening fixture.

The team had their first game of the year in Tourlestrane on Friday evening. It took our lads a long time to get going but our half back lineof Danny O'Hora, James Boland and Ronan Murphy brought us back into the game when it did not look so good.

Our attack started to get into the game in the second half with an excellent Luke Munnelly goal and points from himself and Sean Carrabine. However a few late goals meant the scoreboard took a distorted look but the team can be happy with their efforts and look forward to improving in their next game.

Team: Elliot Beardshall, Niall Judge, James Boland, Fergal Boland, Ronan Murphy, Brendan Foody, Danny O'Hora, Ronan Coggins, Michael Cahill, Oisin Flynn, Sean Carrabine, Odhran Quinn, Dáire Barrins, Luke Munnelly, Kenneth Flynn. Subs: Brian Mahoney, Brian Durkan, Ruairí Gallagher, John Hallinan, James Tully

The minor team travelled to Keash on Friday evening for their latest fixture. This was their tightest game of the league but we emerged victorious against Eastern Harps 1-13 v 1-5. The team have a free week this week.

The team are now top of the B league

Team: Arthur Beardshal, Conor Judge, Keith Earlis, Jason Earlis, Eoin Kent, Conor Gallagher, Ciaran Kilcullen, Kevin McDonnell, Shane Wright, Eoin Flynn, Cian Barrins, Matthew Cullen, James Flynn, Liam Naughton

Matthew Cullen moved from the radio to the television this week.

You can see his interview on TV3 player at the following link, go to around the 25th minute where Matthew is interviewed in the last segment of the show

http://www.tv3.ie/3player/show/155/47516/1/The-Morning-Show

Good luck to Matthew in the final today

On Saturday evening St.Michaels and ourselves met for the third time this year. The previous two encounters were close however this was not the case this time. It was tight for the first while however once the Michaels midfielder was sent off we took a stranglehold on the game especially in the second half.

The sides were all square coming up to the halftime break with points from Eoin Flynn, John McDonnell, Paul Kilcullen, Stevie Kilgallon when we scored two goals in the minutes before halftime from Patrick Naughton and a smashing goal from Kevin Langan to lead at the break 2-4 v 0-4.

Michaels made a determined start to the second half when they scored twice to cut the deficit to 4 points. We then took over and managed to score 11 points on the trot from Kevin Langan, John McDonnell, Brian Lynn, Niall Judge.

Next weekend Drumcliffe travel to Corballa

Team: Anthony Kilcullen, Brendan Howley, David Carrabine, Ronan Keane, Martin Foody, Patrick Naughton(1-1), Kieran Naughton, Michael Langan(0-1), Paul Kilcullen(0-1), John McDonnell(0-3), Kevin Langan(1-7), Stevie Kilgallon(0-1), Eoin Flynn(0-1), Brian Howley, Niall Judge(0-1). Subs: Brian Lynn(0-1), Frank Barrett, Ronan Carrabine, Alan Naughton, Paul Sweeney

Our new scoreboard made its first appearance with Paul Kilcullen getting the first score on it

On May 4th there will be a retirement function for Tony Keane who retired in February. Tony worked in Corballa NS all 36 years of his career and saw many footballers go through.

In fact Tony was instrumental in the inaugural Mickey Kearins tournament for national schools in 1981 in the west Sligo region. A competition that he coached many teams through the years to win including the first two years of the competition.

Tony also played for Castleconnor GAA as well as being a member of the Ballina Town soccer senior team.

The retirement function is also taking the form of a school reunion so why not come back and see how everyone got on whilst wishing Tony all the best.

Tickets are available from Lorna Winters and Mary Boland or members of the school board of management.

Last weekend was a mixed weekend for the juvenile handballers of the club.

On Saturday Mary Foody became the Connacht U14 handball champion 40x20. This was a great achievement for Mary and her coaches.

On Sunday Aoife Quinn travelled to Kilkenny and put in a great performance in the All Ireland final of the U14 group losing 15-10, 15-5. Well done to Aoife and her father Oisin for all their efforts.

The clubs two handball teams were representing Sligo on Saturday in McHale Park, Castlebar in the Connacht community games finals.

The U13 team went down to eventual champions Roscommon who were very strong in the semi final.

The U15 team played Leitrim in their semi final and went down narrowly to them.

Thanks to the lads and the coaches for all their efforts in the last few weeks

Matt after a county final victory 3 years ago

A strange game this on Tuesday evening. An handy enough win but the topsy turvey nature of the second half does not appear in the scoreline. We were well in control in the first half with Matthew Cullen and Stevie Curley winning a lot of ball. At the half time break we lead 0-9 v 0-2.

In the second half we extended the lead to 11 points midway during the half with James Flynn playing well after being introduced. However we missed a number of goal chances were missed. The visitors then came up the field and a mistake from our keeper let them start to believe. This was followed quickly by a second goal and a few quickfire points to narrow the score to 1 point.

However a superb 45 from Kevin McDonnell and a goal from Eoin Flynn meant we established our superiority and won easily in the end. Management and players will wonder though what happened in the middle of the second half though.

Team: Arthur Beardshal, Conor Judge, Keith Earlis, Jason Earlis, Eoin Kent, Conor Gallagher, Ciaran Kilcullen, Kevin McDonnell, Shane Wright, Eoin Flynn, Cian Barrins, Matthew Cullen Subs: James Flynn, Liam Naughton

What a game ..................... if you were not there you missed it and my words will do it no justice...........all types of emotions but in the end after 90 minutes of pure guts and never say die spirit we emerged victorious against last years senior championships runners up.

The match was in Dromard where the weather changed from hailstone showers to sunshine.

The Coolera team got off to an absolute flyer, with two points in the first minute from play. This was quickly followed by a goal from an almost impossible angle to put them 1-2 up. From the following kickout they then found the range with a point. This was followed two minutes later with a goal after a free came back from the keeper and post to be punched in for a 2-3 v 0-0 after nine minutes. The first tackle we actually got on them was in the tenth minute and then things started to change.

We eventually kept Coolera off the scoreboard but we were not able to get a score either until the twentieth minute when Paul Kilcullen kicked a free in the 20th minute after Niall Judge was fouled. In the 23rd minute Kevin McDonnell drove through the Coolera defence to drive an unstoppable shot to the bottom of the net. Paul Kilcullen with a free and a Kevin Langan point from play in the last minute of injury time left the halftime score at 2-3 v 1-3.

The second half continued with us cutting into the lead and after a defence splitting move Brian Curley was at the end to finish to the Coolera net in the 34th minute. Brian had to go off afterwards as he got injured in the scoring of the goal. Coolera then got their first score in 30 minutes when breaking up the field. We then took a foothold in the game with Kevin Langan scoring four points on the trot two from play and two from frees. At this time the midfield of Michael Langan, Paul Kilcullen and centre back Patrick Naughton were pushing on their younger team mates. For the remainder of the half the game moved back and forth with scores being traded, John McDonnell and Kevin Langan put us 4 points up with injury time approaching. Coolera put in an extra effort and scored a point and with the very last attack managed to scramble the ball over the goal line to equalise at 2-9 v 3-6.

Extra time - The teams though both shattered with the testing conditions prepared for 20 mins of extra time. As with the original game Coolera took control early one and scored first from play. This was the result of and excellent point blank save from Anthony Kilcullen. Younger players like Ronan Keane and Martin Foody were driving on with David Carrabine putting his body on the line a number of times. In the last minute of the first half we scored from a Kevin Langan free. to leave the teams all square at the end of the half.

In the first minute of the half we took the lead again through Kevin Langan. Three minutes later we extended the lead to two points. As before the Coolera boys came back and reduced the lead to one point with 2 minutes to go. Going into injury time it was all bodies on deck with Coolera trying hard for another equaliser. This time we learned and an excellent through ball from Niall Judge put Kevin McDonnell through and he finished to the corner of the Coolera net to put us 4 points up in injury time. Coolera again narrowed the gap to 3 but in the third minute of injury time we had secured the Benson cup.

This was a great team performance with our experienced warriors combining with the young guns throughout the field. Kevin Langan accepted the cup from county chairman Cyril Feehily where he thanked the squad and management for their efforts so far this year and thanked new sponsor Tony Carrabine.

Thanks to Mahoneys and Muddy Burns for their hospitality when the team arrived home.

Team: Anthony Kilcullen, Brendan Howley, David Fox, Ronan Keane, Martin Foody, Patrick Naughton, David Carrabine, Michael Langan, Paul Kilcullen (0-2), Alan Cawley, Kevin Langan (0-8), John McDonnell(0-1), Brian Curley(1-0), Kevin McDonnell(2-0), Niall Judge. Subs: Keith Earlis, Stephen Kilgallon, Tomas Cawley

Kevin Langan receiving the Benson Cup from county chairman Cyril Feehily after the teams extra time victory over Coolera. The squad on the day missing some injured lads and Michael McDonnells big new wrist warmer!

The team had their first outing on Easter Sunday morning with a trip to Aclare. With 18 lads not available due to the Benson cup final on the following day. Tourlestrane had the similar situation with a Kiernan cup final the following day. However all those on the pitch put in an honest hours work.

The home team were quicker out of the blocks and lead by 0-4 v 0-0. Coming near the half time break Stevie Curley put a score on the board and this was followed with an excellent goal from Paul Sweeney after excellent workd from Eoin Flynn, John Cullen and Vinny Howley. Soon after the half time whistle went with the teams level at 0-4 v 1-1.

The second half saw the home team stretch their advanatage and they eventually broke through for a goal. However this was followed by a fortunate goal from Stevie Kilgallon. From the kickout Paul Sweeney was unlucky with a goal bound effort that would have levelled the scores. Despite points from Eoin Flynn and Ciaran Kilcullen we were unable to stem the Tourlestrane tide and a late goal from the home team meant we went down 2-13 v 2-3

Team: John O'Regan, Ronan Carrabine, Darragh Gilmartin, Frank Barrett, Alan Naughton, Ronan Barrett, John Cullen, Stephen Kilgallon(1-0), Stephen Curley(0-1), Ciaran Kilcullen(0-1), Eoin Flynn(0-1), Patrick Cleary, Vincent Howley, Paul Sweeney(1-0)

On Good Friday a number of our clubs young handballers were in Lisacul for a match versus Roscommon. These were the players who had come through games with Leitrim the previous Sunday in Drumshanbo

Results for matches versus Roscommon

U13 Singles: Odhran Quinn won 15-5, 15-9

U13 Doubles: Michael Cahill lost

U14 Singles: Brendan Foody won

U14 Doubles: Sean Carrabine won 15-0, 15-7

The winners now move onto the Connacht finals along with the girls Rachel and Mary Foody and Leah Swift.

The U16 team had their second league game in two days when they had Tourlestrane as visitors to Corballa. Team manager Paul Kilcullen had to rush from the Benson cup semi-final in Buninnadden to take care of his charges.

The team showed the benefit of having a game a few days earlier when they put in a much improved performance and won with ease.

This game took place in Bunninnadden on Friday evening. This was the the teams third meeting in 5 weeks with a draw and an one point victory in the previous games all expected a tight tense affair. However that was not to be the case at all.

We got off to a flyer of a start with a very well taken goal from Niall Judge in the first minute. This was followed two minutes later by a goal from Kevin Langan and by the 10th minute we lead 3-1 v 0-0 with another goal this time of the fortunate variety from Judge. Until the half time break we drove forward to lead at the break 3-9 v 0-1. This could have been more but two good saves from the opposition goalie from Pat Naughton and Stevie Kilgallon kept out to very good efforts.

The second half was no different and an exquisite pass from Brian Curley put Niall Judge put him through on goal but he was fouled for a penalty that we put wide. Another excellent piece of individualism by Curley put Judge in for another point. Then subs Kieran Naughton and Frank Barrett scored points from play after good play by Ronan Carrabine. Calry scored a goal before the end from a penalty.

The team eased off and won by 3-19 v 1-2. The team are now in the Benson cup final on Monday afternoon in Dromard at 3:30pm.

Team: Anthony Kilcullen, Brendan Howley, David Fox, Ronan Keane, Martin Foody, Patrick Naughton, Keith Earlis, Michael Langan(0-1), Paul Kilcullen, John McDonnell, Alan Cawley, Stevie Kilgallon(0-1), Brian Curley(0-3), Kevin Langan(1-4), Niall Judge(2-3). Subs: Kieran Naughton(0-1), Alan Naughton, Frank Barrett(0-1), Eoin Flynn, Ronan Carrabine

The team travelled to Achonry on Wednesday evening for this re-arranged fixture. This was our teams first fixture of the year and it showed up in some of our play. However the lads kept on trying and look forward to their next fixture at the weekend.

The minor team travelled to Colloney on Tuesday evening for this second round game.

The team put in a good performance throughout and won well

The team travelled to Calry for the second time in a month for this league fixture on Saturday evening. Both teams had to field without their county U21 players.

The home team got off to a blistering start and were leading 1-2 to no score after 10 mins. However we started to get to grips with their running game and Kevin Langan got us off the mark from play followed by a free. The last 10 mins of the half saw us pin the home them back further and with points from Paul Kilcullen and Kevin Langan left the halftime score at 1-3 v 0-4.

In the second half we were the team to get off to a fast start with points from Kevin Langan one feom play the other a free. This was quickly followed by a rifle to the roof of the net by Niall Judge after an assist from Brian Curley. We now lead by 3 points but the home side started to eat into the lead and took the lead with 2 minutes remaining. However we moved up the field and a cross field pass by Niall Judge found Kevin Langan, who went pass a defender and then put over the equaliser with his left from 40 metres with what turned out to be the last kick and finishing with a scoreline of 1-8 v 1-8.

Team: Anthony Kilcullen, Brendan Howley, David Fox, Tomas Cawley, Kieran Naughton, Ronan Keane, Martin Foody, Michael Langan, Paul Kilcullen (0-1), Brian Howley, Kevin Langan(0-7), J.McDonnell, B.Curley, A.Cawley, N.Judge(1-0)

Tuesday evening saw our minors have their first game of the year when the north Sligo side were visitors to Corballa.

We got off to a good start with points from Keith Jacob and Matthew Cullen before the visitors scored. At the half time break we lead 0-6 v 0-2.

The second half was a dull affair only livened up by the scoring of three 45m frees by Kevin McDonnell. We never looked in trouble and there was good performances from Conor Judge, Keith Earlis, Kevin McDonnell, Ciaran Kilcullen and Matthew Cullen.

Next week the team travel to Colloney to take on Owenmore Gaels/Ballisodare in the third round.

Team: Arthur Beardshall, Conor Judge, Jason Earlis, Keith Earlis, Conor Gallagher, Eoin Kent, Kevin McDonnell, Ciaran Kilcullen, Shane Wright, Eoin Flynn, Keith Foody, Matthew Cullen, Keith Jacob. Subs: Liam Naughton, Cian Barrins

Tom and Alan Cawley both recipients of the Nicky Rackard hurling all-star award in the last two years have played all games in the NHL for Sligo with Alan playing mostly at midfield, getting a few points and Tom at corner back keeping the scores out.

Both Alan and Tom are helping coach the clubs underage hurling teams on Wednesday evenings.

Both Kevin McDonnell and Keith Earlis have started both Sligo minor league games winning versus Leitrim but losing to Galway last Friday evening starting at midfield and full back.

Last week Cian Barrins and Stephen Durkan were part of the St.Muredachs 2nd year team who won the Connacht colleges A final.

Well done lads

The team travelled to Ballintogher on Saturday evening to play the playoff round in the Benson cup competition.

We got off to a good start and lead 1-3 v 0-2 after 10 mins with a goal from Brian Curley and points from Brian Lynn and Niall Judge, however the home team took a stranglehold and went into a 5 point lead coming up to the break when Brian Curley got in for his second goal. From the resulting kickout Michaels went down the field to score a goal to leave the halftime score at 3-6 v 2-4.

We brought the gap down to three points with points from Kevin Langan, but the home side again stretched the lead to 5 points with 12 mins remaining. The play was moving up and down the field and we got the next break when Stevie Kilgallon rolled the ball by the home keeper. This was quickly followed by points from Kevin Langan and Brian Howley.

Kevin Langan put us in front after Niall Judge was fouled but the home team equalised with 2 mins to go. A quick movement down the field saw Patrick Naughton put us in front for the final time and we held out in the 5 minutes of injury time to win 3-11 v 3-10.

Team: A.Kilcullen, Brendan Howley, K.Earlis, R.Keane, K.Naughton, P.Naughton(0-1), J.McDonnell, M.Langan(0-1), Brian Howley(0-1), E.Flynn, K.McDonnell, B.Lynn(0-2), B.Curley(2-0), S.Kilgallon(1-0), N.Judge(0-2).Subs: K.Langan(0-4), F.Barrett

Jason Earlis travelled to Co.Tyrone today to play in the Juvenile All-Ireland final.

Commiserations to Jason as he lost in a tie break.

More details to follow later...........

Saturday morning Cloonacool were visitors to Corballa for the second round of the league. Both teams had won their first round games and were up for the game.

We took the game to the visitors in the first quarter and lead by 1-3 v 0-1 with the goal coming from a penalty by Kevin Langan after Brian Curley was foot blocked shooting on goal. However this seemed to spur on the visitors and they scored 1-1 in the space of a few mins but points from Brian Curley and Paul Kilcullen left the halftime score at 1-7 v 1-2.

It took us ten minutes to get a score in the second half at which time Cloonacool had reduced the deficit to three point. Both teams traded points until the twentieth minute with Kevin Langan putting over a couple of points.

In the last ten minutes we took control of the game and a Stevie Kilgallon fisted goal in the last few minutes put a cap on it with us finishing with a 2-13 v 1-5 victory.

Team: A.Kilcullen, Brendan Howley, D.Fox, R.Keane, K.Naughton, P.Naughton(0-1), M.Foody, M.Langan(0-1), P.Kilcullen(0-2), Brian Howley, K.Langan(1-6), J.McDonnell(0-1), E.Flynn, B.Curley(0-1), N.Judge(0-1). Subs: S.Kilgallon(1-0), A.Naughton, F.Barrett,

The team travelled to Achonry on Saturday evening for the first round of the county division 2 league to play Mullinabreena.

In a fast paced game the home side settled into the game quicker and an excellent save from Anthony Kilcullen kept us in the game early on. Our first two scores came from a driving run from Kevin McDonnell and Brian Curley. With 20 minutes gone we trailed 0-5 v 0-2, but a purple patch before the break meant we had equalised with scores from Kevin Langan(2), Eoin Flynn and Niall Judge leaving the halftime score at 6 points a piece.

At the start of the second half we took the lead for the first time with two monster points from Kevin Langan followed by another from a Paul Kilcullen free. The sides then traded two points a piece with a Kevin Langan free and and point from play. As Mullinabreena made a desperate last attack for goal they were intercepted by John McDonnell who played in his brother Kevin for the insurance point. This was a very good team performance with standout games from David Carrabine, Kevin Langan, Martin Foody and keeper Anthony Kilcullen.

Next weekend we play Cloonacool in the second round at Corballa on Paddys day at 12pm.

Team:A.Kilcullen, Brendan Howley, P.Naughton, R.Keane, M.Foody, D.Carrabine, P.Kilculen(0-1), M.Langan, Brian Howley, K.Langan(0-6), K.McDonnell(0-2), B.Curley(0-1), N.Judge(0-1), E.Flynn(0-1).Subs: B.Lynn, S.Kilgannon, J.McDonnell

On Wednesday night in the community centre the U13 community games boys team won the county title after defeating St.Feichins in the final.

The team of Dáire Barrins, Barry Mulderrig, Ronan Wilson, Mícheal Cahill, James and Fergal Boland now go through to the Connacht finals representing Sligo in Castlebar on April 27th.