Hurling Chart Toppers 2014 - Mahony leads the way

Waterford League & Championship Scorers

Pauric Mahony 2-87
Austin Gleeson 1-10
Brian O’Sullivan 0-12
Shane Walsh 2-5
Colin Dunford 2-4
Ray Barry 0-9
Jake Dillon 0-8
Seamus Prendergast 0-6
Ryan Donnelly 0-5
Kevin Moran 0-5
Maurice Shanahan 0-4
Darragh Fives 1-1
Stephen Molumphy 0-4
Jamie Nagle 0-3
Gavin O’Brien 0-2
Philip Mahony 0-2
Stephen Roche 0-2
Shane O’Sullivan 0-2
Jamie Barron 0-1
Tadhg De Burca 0-1
Richie Foley 0-1

Waterford SHC Top Ten

Pauric Mahony (Ballygunner) 0-67
Jamie Barron (Fourmilewater) 1-60
Seamus Prendergast (Ardmore) 4-47
Michael Kearney (Ballyduff Upper) 3-47
Martin O’Neill (Mount Sion) 0-52
Maurice Shanahan (Lismore) 4-35
Owen Connors (Passage) 1-38
Brian O’Sullivan (Ballygunner) 4-28
Patrick Curran (Dungarvan) 3-29
Jake Dillon (De La Salle) 1-32

Football Chart Toppers 2014 - Whyte & Ryan reach number one

 

Waterford League & Championship Scorers

Paul Whyte 3-38
Shane Ahearne 1-15
JJ Hutchinson 0-16
Liam Ó Lonáin 3-8
Shane Briggs 0-5
Tony Grey 0-4
Declan Allen 0-4
Michael O’Gorman 0-2
Conor Phelan 0-2
Lorcan Ó Corraoin 0-1
Wayne Hutchinson 0-1
Oran Keevers 0-1
Tadhg Ó hUallacháin 0-1
Michael Curry 0-1
Tommy Prendergast 0-1

 

Waterford SFC Top Ten

Shane Ryan (The Nire) 6-28
Donie Breathnach (An Rinn) 1-34
Mark Ferncombe (Ballinacourty) 5-19
JJ Hutchinson (Gaultier) 2-26
Shane Ahearne (Stradbally) 1-23
Patrick Hurney (Ballinacourty) 2-17
Michael Sweeney (Stradbally) 3-12
Liam Lawlor (The Nire) 2-14
Bilí Breathnach (An Rinn) 2-14
Robert Ahearne (Stradbally) 2-14
Gavin Nugent (Rathgormack) 0-20

GAA Christmas Crackers 2014 – Quotes of the Year

“We will let them have a pint tonight, I don’t believe that it’s the worst thing possible that you can do in GAA to let fellas have an aul pint after being off it since Christmas!”
Anthony Daly allows the Dubs celebrate survival in Division 1A after a 4-13 to 1-17 play-off win against Waterford at Walsh Park.

“I just said to him he was lucky he got it because he made a balls of the first goal!”
Waterford minor bainsteoir Derek Lyons forgives goalkeeper Billy Nolan for an earlier error as the Roanmore stopper produced a wonder injury time save against Clare.

“He’s a better player than Cooper, he is one of the greatest I have ever seen. In my opinion, Cooper is a two trick pony.”
Following Kerry’s quarter final win over Galway, Martin McHugh got carried away with the scoring exploits of James O’Donoghue.

“I don’t know. I have no real phenomenal feelings. You want to win, you want to lose. We neither won nor lost. I am as I am, to be honest.”
Despite the 54 score thriller that unfolded at Croke Park, Brian Cody remained composed in the post-match press conference.

“They were handed an opportunity which was a complete wrong decision. We didn’t speak about it the last day but it was criminal what was done the last day. And people can say that I am whinging and moaning all they like but I am telling the truth.”
On a Sunday morning in City West, following Kilkenny’s replay triumph, Cody blasted Barry Kelly’s late call against Brian Hogan in the drawn game.

“Father Cullinane, he couldn’t make it but he has been unbelievable for us. We had a good mass this morning, he mentioned the match an awful lot during the mass and it was brilliant!”
Manager Adrian Meagher describes 8 am mass in Ballysaggart to accommodate the All Ireland semi final trip to Tullamore. The blue and navy hammered Sligo champions Calry/St Josephs by 4-13 to 0-8.

“In Conor Gleeson, I believe that The Nire have the best minor footballer in Munster never mind Waterford. If he could come in under the radar against Stradbally, he could punish them. He can score off either foot and he has got a great football brain.”
The words of former Waterford football manager John Kiely in Saturday’s Examiner prior to the county final. Man of the match Gleeson shot five from play and the Conway Cup returned to The Nire.

“That bloody knee of mine is giving me trouble with years. I just got a bit of a twist. I got a reminder that I shouldn’t be out in the middle of the field. Fair is fair. Dessie even said: ‘you eejit why don’t you run around the pitch’. He’s dead right!”
The Nire manager Benji Whelan saw the funny side after he injured his knee while delivering instructions during the county final. Referee Dessie O’Leary ushered him to the far side of the field.

“I just want to make one point clear, I’m only doing this interview for Billy Joe Padden.”
Armagh boss Paul Grimley breaks the media ban to speak with a former Orchard county player on Newstalk.

“It’s not a centre of excellence, there’s two fields there, how is that a centre of excellence? If I was a club person I would be looking for a review of that. That’s going to turn out as a centre of mediocrity.”
Dónal Óg Cusack criticises plans for the new Páirc Uí Chaoimh as Cork limp out of the championship to Tipperary.

“Joe Brolly told us the production line was finished in Kerry. Well Joe Brolly, what do you think of that?!”
A newspaper article earlier in the season prompted an emphatic reaction from All Ireland final goalscorer Kieran Donaghy.

Banner takeover in tale of two halves - Clare 2-20 Waterford 0-17

In a challenge game of two halves on Wednesday night at Fraher Field, an unfamiliar Clare side zipped the ball about with confidence and sprinted clear of their hosts. They shot a jaw dropping 2-14 in the second half as opposed to just four points.

Clare punished Waterford’s wastefulness during the first period. They spurned six chances over the opening twenty minutes. Shane Bennett missed two, Kevin Moran struck the post, Thomas Connors saw his shot saved by Donal Tuohy while Jake Dillon and Martin O’Neill sent their efforts astray. Waterford had also recorded eight wides by the time they reached the dressing rooms. David Reidy and Darach Honan made no mistake at the road goal after the break. Bobby Duggan was a danger from start to finish and scored eight points (five frees and three from play). Aaron Cunningham walloped three in the second half.

Waterford practically fielded two different teams as only Barry Coughlan, John Morrissey, Austin Gleeson and Donie Breathnach lasted the full seventy. Martin O’Neill, Donie Breathnach and Austin Gleeson gave a good account of themselves but the eleven substitutes appeared to disrupt a positive first half and it was hard for the new recruits to stand out.

49 different players were used between both sides (26 for Waterford and 23 for Clare). Davy Fitzgerald started with seven All Ireland under 21 winners but turned to the likes of Patrick Kelly, Brendan Bugler, Nicky O'Connell and Darach Honan in the second half. Eleven of Derek McGrath’s fifteen had previous senior championship experience. He emptied an inexperienced subs bench after the break.

The home side only scored seven points from play compared to Clare’s 2-14. Two of the six starting forwards registered (Thomas Connors and Tom Devine). Substitutes Tommy Waring, Eamonn Power and Pa O’Donovan all got on the scoresheet but they weren’t on long enough to perform a decent audition. Kevin Moran and Michael Walsh started in the half forward line and the latter spent time at full forward. He distributed the ball around yet looked uncomfortable when turning to shoot. Tom Devine lined out at fourteen and made a couple of good contributions but couldn’t win the ball cleanly.

A fabulous display of free taking from Martin O'Neill powered Waterford into a commanding position by half time (0-13 to 0-6). Clare duo Bobby Duggan and Cathal O’Connell sparkled early on with two points apiece before O’Neill took centre stage. The Mount Sion marksman was particularly impressive from distance. He fired in five frees, four 65s and one from play. A nice point tight to the sideline by Thomas Connors opened up a five point gap (0-9 to 0-4). Clare went 18 minutes without a score before Duggan grabbed two back. O’Neill finished the half with three in a row to bring his personal total to ten and Tom Devine charged through the centre to blast over.

Waterford should have rattled the cobwebs at least once by that stage as they showed an appetite for goals instead tapping over easy points. Shane Bennett's shot was blocked in the second minute after a Jake Dillon pass. A flowing move started by Austin Gleeson featured contributions from Donie Breathnach and Thomas Connors before Dillon shot wide. Bennett fed Kevin Moran but his rasper struck the left hand post. Connors then forced Donal Tuohy to save. These four chances occurred inside the first ten minutes. Bennett approached from the right wing on 12 minutes but fluffed his lines and the sliotar scuttled harmlessly wide. Martin O'Neill was at the end of opportunity number six and his effort whizzed narrowly wide.

It was a different tale from the start of the second period as Fitzgerald’s men bagged 1-4 without reply. Six minutes in, Ian O’Regan got a stick to David Reidy’s shot but couldn’t keep it out and the ball nestled in the bottom corner. Duggan followed that up with a sweet point straight off his stick as Clare took over and implemented their short game. O’Neill lit up the first half but didn’t reappear and the host of changes appeared to weaken the home team.

A fine brace from Aaron Cunningham allowed the Banner hit the front and substitute Mikey O'Malley also helped himself to two points. Eamonn Power and Pa O'Donovan briefly interrupted but Clare were utterly on top as Brendan Bugler launched one from midfield and Bobby Duggan continued to pick off his scores. Seven minutes from the finish, Darach Honan pounced on a spillage by substitute goalkeeper Eddie Lynch and his goal settled the outcome emphatically. Waterford's challenge petered out yet the glut of missed chances and the chopping and changing undertaken in the second half skewed the final score somewhat. Certainly if the first half team stayed on the field, it would have been a lot closer at the end.

The management team looked at 36 players over the four December games and attempted to mix and match the old and the new. Martin O'Neill's prolific outings against Galway and Clare and Michael Kearney's input of 1-3 versus Dublin made a persuasive case for more minutes in 2015. Apart from those two, it was very hard to pick out other players that will shake up the panel. How many newbies will be integrated into the first team and where McGrath will accommodate the various pieces will create plenty of discussion into the New Year especially when players like Tadhg De Burca, Philip Mahony, Jamie Barron, Colin Dunford and Stephen Bennett are available for selection. One of these conundrums is the positioning of Michael Walsh. Combinations must be settled upon ahead of the trip to the Gaelic Grounds in February and understandings will have to develop. More tweaking can be expected when Davy Fitzgerald visits Waterford on January 11 with his LIT side for the preliminary round of the Crystal Cup. Results will mean a lot more at that stage.

Scorers for Waterford: M O’Neill 0-10 (5fs, 4 65s), D Breathnach 0-2 (1f), T Connors, T Devine, T Waring, P O’Donovan, E Power 0-1 each.

Scorers for Clare: B Duggan 0-8 (5fs), D Reidy 1-1, D Honan 1-0, A Cunningham 0-3, C O’Connell, D Keane (1f), M O’Malley 0-2 each, B Bugler, N O’Connell 0-1 each.

Waterford: I O’Regan; S Fives, B Coughlan, J Morrissey; G O’Brien, A Gleeson, S O’Sullivan; M O’Neill, D Breathnach; K Moran, T Connors, M Walsh; S Bennett, T Devine, J Dillon.

Subs used: M O’Brien, DJ Foran, M Harney, P O’Donovan, T Waring, C Curran, P Walsh, M Flynn, C Murray, E Power, E Lynch.

Clare: D Tuohy; D O’Donovan, C Duggan, S McNamara; G O’Connell, C Cleary, P Flanagan; E Enright, S O’Halloran; D Keane, B Duggan, C Malone; C O’Connell, D Reidy, A Cunningham.

Subs used: P O’Connor, B Bugler, N O’Connell, D Honan, S Golden, M O’Malley, P Kelly, D McInerney.

Referee: M O’Brien (Waterford)

Galway 0-22 Waterford 0-20 - Senior Hurling Challenge

A rainy and gloomy Saturday afternoon in Rathkeale was the setting to get a first glimpse of the Waterford senior hurlers in action. No shelter to shield the elements at the secluded Limerick ground as these two teams commenced the experimentation for the 2015 season.

It’s hard to wrap your head around challenge matches when Christmas songs are on the radio. This game felt too far away from any of the competitive stuff to make any concrete judgements on new players or fresh combinations. Very early to judge if Gavin O'Brien will stake a claim in the half back line, if Martin O'Neill will become first choice free taker or if the three All Ireland minor medallists (Shane Bennett, Cormac Curran and Michael Kearney) will make the cut. Curiosity is the main attraction of these affairs with observers searching for clues rather than results. The odd socks and shorts in evidence also gave the impression that everyone was only waking up to the idea that the inter county campaign has started all over again. Referee Fergal Horgan only interfered when absolutely necessary.

The Tribesmen fared better facing into the breeze and only for six late wides, they would have won by a more comfortable margin. Ten different maroon sources chipped in with scores. Established names like Conor Cooney, James Regan and David Collins made their presence felt and we may hear more from bolters Dean Higgins, Brian Molloy and Eanna Burke.

20 players togged out for Derek McGrath’s side. Martin O’Neill was the standout performer with eleven points (seven frees and four from play). He operated along the half forward line and stroked over a few massive singles. Wing back Pa Walsh from Passage picked out his passes and looked comfortable in possession. Shane Bennett and Mikey Kearney were enthusiastic in the corners and kept trying things even if some didn’t come off. Ian O’Regan could be pleased with his clean sheet and denied Brian Molloy and James Regan at the start of the second half. His puckouts were faultless throughout. Cappoquin’s Munster final hero Conor Murray made a difference around the middle as a second half sub and finished off a lengthy solo run. Colligan duo John Morrissey and Mark Flynn did a tidy job in the full back line when introduced. Eamonn Power and Eoin Madigan also got game time. Thomas Connors (three points) and Brian O’Halloran (two points) did their best work during the first half.

With wind assistance, Waterford led by 0-14 to 0-12 at half time. The scores came at a typical challenge game speed initially. Ten over the first ten minutes and 18 by the twentieth minute. Waterford zipped 0-7 to 0-3 ahead. Shane Bennett sent over an absolute beauty from 60 metres tight to the sideline. Martin O’Neill and Thomas Connors grabbed two each with Brian O’Halloran and Cormac Curran also accurate. Galway’s early efforts held up in the breeze but they quickly acclimatised. Conor Cooney’s free taking along with fine points by Dean Higgins, Brian Molloy and Jason Flynn narrowed to two. Substitute Molloy (who featured in the 2013 minor All Ireland) accounted for three sharp scores before the break and wing back Colm Flynn struck from distance. O’Neill ended the half with his first from play out on the left flank.

Galway centre back David Collins charged forward for the opening point of the second half as Anthony Cunningham’s side took control. Ian O’Regan stopped certain goals from Brian Molloy and James Regan. The second of those was a spectacular flick away for a 65. The scores arrived at a slower pace with both sides lacking that touch of precision with the shot or final pass at times.

A rapid double from Regan regained the lead for Galway (0-15 to 0-14). All Ireland medallist with the St Thomas club Eanna Burke and wing back Gearoid McInerney stretched that out to three as Waterford introduced five substitutes at the same time. After sixteen minutes without a score, O’Neill judged a huge point from 65 metres. He was striking the ball with confidence and added two more to level the match. He maintained Waterford’s interest as he answered points from Eanna Burke and Cathal Mannion to leave it 19 points each entering the final ten minutes.

Galway had plenty of opportunities to gallop towards the winning post. After Mannion edged them in front, they amassed six wides in a row. Eventually, Dean Higgins gave them some comfort and Conor Cooney settled the outcome. Eoin Madigan was unfortunate with a goal chance for Waterford on 65 minutes and Conor Murray got a cracking score after a rapid dash from midfield.

On this blustery day, in an unglamorous venue, those on the fringes gave a good account of themselves and several rookies also left a positive first impression. Not much more to learn from these odd challenge matches in December. It's not the most wonderful time of the year for inter county hurling but those few hints make it worthwhile nonetheless.

Scorers for Galway: C Cooney 0-6 (2fs), D Higgins, B Molloy 0-3 each, C Mannion, E Burke, J Regan 0-2 each, D Collins, C Flynn, G McInerney, J Flynn 0-1 each.

Scorers for Waterford: M O’Neill 0-11 (7fs), T Connors 0-3, B O’Halloran, S Bennett 0-2 each, C Curran, C Murray 0-1 each.

Galway: C Callanan; D O’Donoghue, J Hanbury, S Morrissey; G McInerney, D Collins, C Flynn; K Hynes, J Cooney; D Higgins, C Cooney, C Mannion; J Regan, P Mannion, J Flynn.

Subs used: B Molloy, E Burke, J Kennedy, G Kelly.

Waterford: I O’Regan; S McNulty, B Coughlan, P Prendergast; G O’Brien, T De Burca, P Walsh; K Moran, S Fives; M O’Neill, T Connors, B O’Halloran; S Bennett, C Curran, M Kearney.

Subs used: J Morrissey, M Flynn, E Madigan, E Power, C Murray.

Referee: F Horgan

Kearney wrapped up in Modeligo mission

At 27 years of age, Pa Kearney leads Modeligo into their first ever Munster final. Another exciting challenge for both club and coach.

The switch to management mode was a straightforward decision for the former Waterford hurler after a car accident in 2009 cut short his playing days. “When you miss the game and you can’t play it anymore, it’s the next best thing.”

Opportunities arose quickly for the Ballyduff Upper man. He linked up with the Waterford minor hurlers in 2012 as selector and also assisted his local club in both hurling and football. He answered Modeligo’s call this season. “I had a tremendous experience with the minors a few years ago and a bit of coaching with my club alongside Maurice Geary which was a great experience for me also. Places like Modeligo show you the real value of a small club. Everyone getting on with you down there and taking you in can really help you throughout the year.”

Kearney crossed the bridge immediately and left a promising playing career behind. He represented the county at minor, under 21 and senior grades. In 2007, he helped restore the Reds to number one. The corner forward netted a first half goal in the county final against Ballygunner. A senior call-up followed from Justin McCarthy a year later and he was a member of Davy Fitzgerald’s squad that reached the 2008 All Ireland final.

His love of the game remains untainted. Modeligo’s march on Munster has provided plenty of thrills. “Nothing beats being right in the thick of it, whether it be a player or a sub or part of the backroom team. Everyone gets sucked into it, whether it be a first round game or a county final. Hurling is a great game and it’s a big part of my life. You would get sucked in. For me alone and Modeligo, the feeling after the last few victories has just been unbelievable.”

Kearney agreed that the Munster semi final against Feohanagh-Castlemahon posed their toughest test of 2014. After a free flowing first half, they trailed by 1-11 to 0-10. “It was the first time we were behind all year to be honest about it. Anyone who was at it could see it was a fine hurling game. It was tit for tat. It was just the unfortunate goal that we left in before half time that gave them the edge. Looking back at the first half as a whole, we were every bit as good as them so we knew we would get chances. Thankfully we got them early in the second half, which was vital.”

They looted 2-7 on the resumption but Kearney diverted attention to the backs for strangling the life out of the home attack and limiting them to just two scores. “We got the 1-2 early enough and went ahead. We managed to tack on a few scores and keep them at bay at the back. Our half back line and full back line stood strong at that time and they didn’t end up scoring until the last minute of the second half which was exceptional out of our set of backs. That doesn’t happen every day but we have to give them credit for that day alone anyway!”

The five week gap between the lop-sided county final versus Bonmahon (2-25 to 0-8) and provincial semi final proved a bit troublesome beforehand. “Against Bonmahon we got the upper hand. When we got a lead, we kept it so it wasn’t a full blooded sixty minute match. Looking into a five week break, it was a long time to keep people going especially with the change of weather, people in colleges and it’s very hard to get challenge games. We were lucky enough that we got two challenge games. It was only the second time that Modeligo were playing in the Munster championship so there was a hunger to get a win.”

Modeligo started the season from a position of strength. They nearly derailed the Ballysaggart train last year. The blue and navy needed a replay before defeating the green and white at the semi final stage of the Western championship. Kearney made subtle alterations to their playing style. “They had a pretty good year last year. They were slow starting but they ended it very well and were a bit unfortunate. Coming in, it was just to bring a new voice, somebody young to work with them I suppose and get them to buy into it. Along with the selectors, we agreed that we might try and impose a type of game. It’s gone well so far. They were good hurlers already, it was just some fine tuning.”

Final opponents Castlemartyr wriggled out of the Cork junior championship for the first time in 50 years. In the county final, they outscored Ballinhassig by thirteen points to nil in a remarkable second half turnaround. Modeligo acknowledge the potency of inter county pair Brian and Barry Lawton who compiled eleven points out of 1-16 in the recent win over Kenmare. “One is a Cork senior hurler and one is a Cork intermediate hurler and they have been playing with Imokilly who are a Cork senior team also. They are definitely of a high standard. At this stage, everyone knows what to expect to a certain degree out of every team. We will have an idea and they certainly will have an idea. It’s just about who clicks and what team it goes right for on the day and hopefully it will be us.”

Totally immersed in Modeligo and ready to greet Munster final day. Kearney is right where he wants to be. Back in the thick of the action.

The Nire v Austin Stacks - Route To Munster Club Final

The Nire

Scores For: 14-120
Scores Against: 7-64
Top Scorer: Shane Ryan (6-32)

Waterford SFC Round 1
The Nire 3-22 Ballinameela 0-2

Waterford SFC Round 2
The Nire 2-10 St Saviours 1-3

Waterford SFC Round 3
The Nire 3-11 Stradbally 3-6

Waterford SFC Round 4
The Nire 2-15 De La Salle 0-8

Waterford SFC Round 5
The Nire 1-9 Gaultier 1-7

Waterford SFC Quarter Final
The Nire 1-8 Rathgormack 0-8

Waterford SFC Semi Final
The Nire 0-10 An Rinn 0-9

Waterford SFC Final
The Nire 0-11 Stradbally 0-6

Munster Quarter Final
The Nire 1-11 Ballylanders 0-7

Munster Semi Final
The Nire 1-13 Cratloe 2-8 (AET)

Austin Stacks

Scores For: 5-99
Scores Against: 7-56
Top Scorer: Shane Carroll (0-40)

Kerry SFC Round 1
Austin Stacks 0-14 Feale Rangers 0-9

Kerry SFC Round 3
Austin Stacks 0-17 Rathmore 2-5

Kerry SFC Quarter Final
Austin Stacks 0-14 West Kerry 0-7

Kerry SFC Semi Final
Austin Stacks 2-13 Dingle 1-9

Kerry SFC Final
Austin Stacks 1-13 Mid Kerry 2-10

Kerry SFC Final Replay
Austin Stacks 2-13 Mid Kerry 1-7

Munster Semi Final
Austin Stacks 0-15 Ballincollig 1-9 (AET)

O’Connor shakes up Cappoquin confidence

 

Imprisoned in the intermediate grade from 1990 onwards, Cappoquin regularly threatened an escape. In recent memory, they lost to Tourin and An Rinn in close run Western finals. They carried plenty of baggage when Fintan O’Connor arrived as team trainer at the start of the season.

Ahead of another wrestle for honours up West, he felt that they just needed a gentle shove to attain their goal. “Like every team that have been close or knocking at the door, confidence is a huge thing. To get them to believe that they were good enough was the big thing. When I saw them playing, I always thought that they were good enough. It was just getting them to believe in themselves.”

The campaign has thrown up complications for the Cornerstone boys. They were reduced to fourteen with twenty minutes remaining of the Western semi final against An Rinn and then fell five points behind in the final. The type of obstructions they struggled to cope with in the past. They worked out solutions to these problems however and reclaimed the Raymond O’Brien Memorial Cup for the first time in 19 years.

Down by seven points a long way from home against Feakle, that confidence seemed shaken. O’Connor was an animated presence along the sideline as he roused the troops to retaliate. For the third time in their last four championship games, they managed to eke out a single score win. “It was very easy to give up and throw in the towel when you are down and out and away from home. They kept going. That was thing I was most proud of: their attitude and the way they didn’t give up. That’s a great sign of any team. It’s very easy to be good when you are winning but when you are down, it’s hard to keep going. That’s what I was most happy with.”

They also shrugged off the absence of three first choice players which feeds further into the good vibes at present. “The team showed a lot of character. We were down seven points at one stage playing with the breeze. It was great to turn it around. Hopefully we will have a couple of the lads back the next day which is adding to the positivity around the camp. It’s a first for everyone. It’s the first time the club have been in the Munster championship and it’s a great experience for the boys.”

Not for the first time this season they retrieved a rather grim situation but O’Connor recognises the need to eradicate those slow starts. They very nearly got cut off completely in Sixmilebridge. “It’s not something we are encouraging! We warmed up in a different venue and we only arrived twenty minutes beforehand. I think it kind of threw out the lads. We started nervously and slowly. It’s something we will have to try and look at. We can’t afford to give teams a four or five point start. It’s not going to keep happening for us.”

Prolific captain Shane O’Rourke never allowed his standards dip and O’Connor also praised the perseverance of the players around him. “He has been very good all year that way. He has been a reliable score getter from placed balls and from play. He kept us in it in the first half. The boys around him worked hard too and maybe didn’t get scores but set up scores for him and won vital frees when we weren’t in the game.”

Centre back Conor Murray also intervened at the death. “He had a great second half and he made one crucial flick with about thirty seconds to go. The Feakle midfielder Shane McGrath was running through and he just flicked the ball off the hurley. It was an unbelievable tackle. Those are the small margins.”

Last week, O’Connor was ratified as Waterford senior hurling selector for 2015. His impressive body of work includes stints with Fourmilewater, WIT and Blackwater Community School. Cappoquin’s promotion gave him pause for thought before he made his mind up. Ultimately, it was an offer too good to refuse. “When Derek approached me, I was delighted to be asked to do it. I had a hard decision to make with Cappoquin going up senior and they are a really nice bunch of lads. I have enjoyed my time and it was a really hard decision to make. I just couldn’t turn it down either. A lot of the lads playing with Waterford I know from schools and from WIT last year. I’m really excited by it. I know there’s huge changes in it but it’s an exciting time for Waterford when you are bringing through young players onto a team and hopefully it will go well for them.”

His immediate focus remains fixed on the Munster final. Gary Kirby’s Bruff defeated Lixnaw by three points in the semi final and are regarded as red hot 2/9 favourites. “They have Paul Browne at midfield and Sean Finn who was a Limerick minor last year. He scored 1-3 from play the last day. They have two very good wing forwards also. They are a serious team and they are firm favourites for the match. We will have our homework done on them, worry about ourselves and see where that takes us.”

Waterford Division 1B Hurling Fixtures 2015

14 February
Limerick v Waterford (7.00 at Gaelic Grounds)

21 February
Waterford v Laois (7.00 at Fraher Field)

8 March
Offaly v Waterford (2.30 at O’Connor Park)

15 March
Waterford v Antrim (12.45 at Walsh Park)

22 March
Wexford v Waterford (2.00 at Wexford Park)

Waterford Division 4 Football Fixtures 2015

31 January
Waterford v Wicklow (7.00 at Fraher Field)

8 February
Offaly v Waterford (2.00 at O’Connor Park)

28 February
Waterford v Carlow (7.00 at Fraher Field)

8 March
Longford v Waterford (2.00 at Pearse Park)

15 March
Waterford v Antrim (2.30 at Walsh Park)

29 March
London v Waterford (3.00 at Ruislip)

5 April
Leitrim v Waterford (2.00 at Pairc Sean Mac Diarmada)

Midleton CBS 3-12 Dungarvan CBS 1-11 - Harty Cup Round 3

 

Midleton CBS secured their second win of the Harty Cup campaign at a sunny Ardmore as second half strikes from John Looney and Jack McDonnell preserved their unbeaten status against Dungarvan CBS.

In a topsy turvy contest, a couple of shrewd tactical moves helped the Cork school come from two points back in the third quarter. Gary Leahy dropped out around midfield with substitutes Ed Leahy and Cillian Treacy also curtailing Dungarvan’s forward momentum. All six forwards and both midfielders recorded scores. Leahy, Looney and McDonnell caused trouble all afternoon. For Dungarvan, 15 year old corner forward Sean Crotty snapped five stunning points and put them in a good position at the start of the second period. Michael Cronin, Carthach Barry and Glen Waters also made an impression.

The red and white raced seven points away after 19 minutes. Captain Gary Leahy pulled to the net in the first minute following an initial burst from Josh Beausang. Kevin O’Sullivan raided three points (two frees) with Billy Dunne, Cillian Broderick and John Looney also supplying singles. Dungarvan picked themselves up from a rusty start. Four Mike Kearns frees and a hat trick of Crotty points left them trailing by just three at the break (1-8 to 0-8).

Dungarvan stayed on the front foot at the start of the second half but struck four wides in a row. On 35 minutes, Darragh Lyons launched a free from inside his own half and the ball hopped to the back of the net (1-8 to 1-8). A pair of points from the unerring Crotty deservedly put them in the driving seat for the very first time. The pace of the contest increased and Midleton reacted to the challenge. Brendan McCarthy and Jack McDonnell levelled. The changes were making a difference as Dungarvan started to struggle up front against the extra defender.

With twelve minutes to go, Gary Leahy’s crossfield ball dropped behind the Dungarvan defence and John Looney was alert to whip first time past Sean Murray (2-10 to 1-10). The three time champions never looked back from there. Josh Beausang teed up McDonnell for their third green flag on 54 minutes as they ran out seven point winners.

Midleton top the standings in Group 4 while Dungarvan slumped to their second defeat in three outings.

Scorers for Midleton CBS: J Looney, G Leahy, J McDonnell 1-1 each; K O’Sullivan 0-4 (3fs); J Beausang (f), B Dunne, C Broderick, B McCarthy, C Treacy 0-1 each.

Scorers for Dungarvan CBS: S Crotty 0-5; M Kearns 0-4 (4fs); D Lyons 1-0; P Curran 0-2.

Midleton CBS: S O’Flynn; B Cashman, I Cahill, C Beausang; S Smith, L Dineen, S O’Connor; C Broderick, B McCarthy; K O’Sullivan, J McDonnell, J Looney; B Dunne, G Leahy, J Beausang.

Subs: E Leahy for O’Connor; C Treacy for O’Sullivan; J Sherlock for Cashman.

Dungarvan CBS: S Murray; TJ Veale, M Cronin, C Whelan; C Barry, D Lyons, J Curran; A Donnelly, G Waters; M Culloo, M Phelan, M Kearns; J Lacey, P Curran, S Crotty.

Subs: E Crotty for Kearns; D Booth for Lacey; A Kirwan for J Curran. 

Referee: M O’Brien (Waterford)

Waterford's record in Munster club football 2000-2014

2000 Quarter Final
Moyle Rovers 2-2 The Nire 0-7

2001 Quarter Final
Drom Broadford 2-9 Stradbally 0-9

2002 Quarter Final

Monaleen 1-12 Stradbally 2-6

2003

No Waterford representative

2004 Quarter Final

Stradbally 0-11 Loughmore Castleiney 1-7

2004 Semi Final

Stradbally 1-12 Bishopstown 0-12

2004 Final

Kilmurry Ibrickane 0-9 Stradbally 0-9

2004 Final Replay

Kilmurry Ibrickane 0-9 Stradbally 0-8

2005 Semi Final

Nemo Rangers 1-14 Stradbally 0-10

2006 Semi Final

The Nire 1-6 Aherlow 1-6

2006 Semi Final Replay

The Nire 1-10 Aherlow 0-6

2006 Final
Dr Crokes 2-5 The Nire 0-8

2007 Semi Final

Ballinacourty 2-6 Kilcummin 0-8

2007 Final

Nemo Rangers 1-10 Ballinacourty 1-7

2008

No Waterford representative

2009 Semi Final

Kilmurry Ibrickane 0-9 Stradbally 0-6

2010 Quarter Final

Stradbally 0-7 Doonbeg 0-4

2010 Semi Final

Nemo Rangers 1-12 Stradbally 1-5

2011 Quarter Final

Dr Crokes 3-13 Ballinacourty 0-7

2012 Semi Final

Castlehaven 1-5 Stradbally 0-7

2013 Quarter Final

Ballinacourty 2-7 Drom Broadford 0-11

2013 Semi Final

Cratloe 1-10 Ballinacourty 0-11

County Final Scorers - Stradbally v The Nire

Stradbally
Shane Ahearne 1-21
Michael Sweeney 3-11
Robert Ahearne 2-14
David Grey 0-11
John Coffey 1-5
Chris Casey 1-2
Paddy Kiely 0-5
Tommy Connors 0-4
Jack Mullaney 0-4
Michael Walsh 0-3
Stephen Cunningham 0-1
Andy Doyle 0-1
Paul Connors 0-1
Luke Casey 0-1

The Nire
Shane Ryan 6-24
Liam Lawlor 2-13
Brian Wall 1-13
Jamie Barron 0-10
Alan Lawlor 1-4
Shane Walsh 0-6
Keith Guiry 1-2
Diarmuid Wall 1-1
Michael O’Gorman 0-3
Conor Gleeson 0-2
Darren Guiry 0-2
Craig Guiry 0-2
Seamus Lawlor 0-1
Tommy Cooney 0-1
Dermot Ryan 0-1

Stradbally v The Nire County Final Collisions

A ferocious modern rivalry is renewed on Sunday. The last ten county final meetings between these two have produced five wins for Stradbally, four draws and a single win for The Nire in 2006.

2002

Stradbally 3-8 The Nire 2-11
This drawn encounter was described in the Waterford News & Star “as an epic, pulsating battle from first exhilarating minute to last.” Connie Power with 2-5 emerged as the Nire’s outstanding performer on the day levelling the game with a late free.

2002 Replay

Stradbally 0-12 The Nire 0-10
The replay resulted in a much tighter affair. The Reds trailed by two at halfway but hit the front on 41 minutes through John Hearne. Niall Curran, as so often happened, came up with the vital scores shooting eight points (five frees, two from play and one sideline ball).

2004

Stradbally 1-5 The Nire 0-8
A dour contest ended in another stalemate. Alan Lawlor remarkably contributed all eight Nire points. Stradbally moved five points up entering the last quarter with Ger Power finding the net.

2004 Replay

Stradbally 2-8 The Nire 1-4
Niall Curran kicked 1-5 as Stradbally overturned a three point half time deficit. Brian Wall’s goal put The Nire 1-3 to 0-3 in the clear by the midway point. Curran’s goal on the resumption flipped the contest around and Denis Doyle netted five minutes from time.

2005

The Nire 0-6 Stradbally 0-6
In a poor final, Stradbally led at half time by five points to four. It took 27 minutes of the second half for Niall Curran to widen the margin. The Nire nabbed late points through Shane and Martin Walsh to force a replay.

2005 Replay

Stradbally 1-8 The Nire 1-4
The Reds snatched the replay with a late point by Niall Curran swiftly followed by a John Hearne goal. Curran finished on six points for the afternoon. Stradbally had two points to spare at the break but white flags from Alan Lawlor and Shane Walsh wiped that out. 18 minutes followed without a score before Curran and Hearne wrapped up the five in a row.

2006

The Nire 1-5 Stradbally 0-3
By 2006, the Nire had built up a degree of exasperation and returned to meet the challenge head on. That final saw the Reds ultimately run out of steam in a fiery encounter. The Nire, masterminded by Sean Guiry, earned a 1-5 to 0-3 win with Diarmuid Wall grabbing a late goal. Maurice O'Gorman was voted man of the match.

2009

Stradbally 2-5 The Nire 0-9
The Nire registered the first three points but the pre-match favourites were dealt a severe blow when Shane Walsh trudged off after 13 minutes with a shoulder injury. Goals in either half from Eddie Rockett and Robert Ahearne settled it in Stradbally’s favour.

2012

Stradbally 2-2 The Nire 0-8
Seamus Lawlor sent over the equalising point for The Nire with five minutes to go to set up a replay. Both teams served up a hard fought contest played in driving wind and rain throughout. Michael Walsh produced a dominant display at midfield for Stradbally and goals from Robert and Shane Ahearne put them in the driving seat before Lawlor had the last word.

2012 Replay 

Stradbally 1-8 The Nire 0-10
David Grey’s injury time point saw Stradbally claim their eighth title in twelve years under the Saturday night lights at Fraher Field. The Nire dominated large parts of the game and held a four point advantage at one stage. Ger Power’s goal with twelve minutes remaining sneaked Stradbally ahead for the first time and even though The Nire equalised, substitute Grey settled a pulsating contest. Michael Walsh was named man of the match after again dictating matters at midfield.

Familiar four aim to entertain - SFC Semi Final Predictions

The football championship dearly craves a sixty minute explosion. Three of the four quarter finals were settled by a margin of eleven points or more. The semis on Saturday and Sunday promise at least one memorable tie to inject life into a rather jaded competition. The same four teams do battle as last year. Ballinacourty and The Nire start as favourites to recreate the 2008 final pairing.

11 October

Ballinacourty v Stradbally (7.30 at Fraher Field)
A repeat of last year’s county final and possibly the biggest obstacle to back to back titles for Ballinacourty.

They crashed out to the same opponent two years ago when attempting a title defence. They have won fourteen championship games in a row since that 2-12 to 0-12 defeat back in October of 2012.

Last year’s county final saw Ballinacourty rule the middle third under both primary and breaking ball. They also kept their opponents scoreless for a staggering 34 minutes. It’s hard to envisage a reprise this time around. To beat the Reds, Courty must move the ball at pace and avoid errors in possession. Their handling was superb against St Saviours in treacherous weather last Friday night.

Mark Ferncombe gave a remarkable solo performance from centre forward. He scored 2-7 and assisted two other goals. The Reds cannot allow him to play as he wishes. Will Michael Walsh take up the challenge? Courty’s attacking threat doesn’t solely revolve around one source however. Nine different players scored against St Saviours.

By their own admission, Stradbally didn’t set the world alight during the group stages. They returned to their old selves against Kilrossanty however and crushed the contest well before half time. All the usual suspects revived that spark. John Coffey and Michael Walsh interrupted attacks at one end with the Ahearnes driving things on at the other. They are hunting down a thirteenth county final appearances in sixteen years. No question marks surround their desire for more. Their starting fifteen in the quarter final showed five changes from last year’s county final. One of those new faces county minor Michael Sweeney is leaving his imprint on each game. He has scored goals against The Nire Ballinameela and Kilrossanty.

The holders appear to have the fluency, energy and pace to get behind a Stradbally side who have leaked six goals. They may need to depend on their long range shooting if the door is slammed shut in front of goal. They are hitting around 22 points per game and bring the best defence in the championship to the table.

Two years ago, Stradbally outfought them in this fixture. This will test their hunger to retain the Conway Cup. Courty by a kick of a ball.

Odds: Ballinacourty 4/7 Draw 13/2 Stradbally 7/4
Prediction: Ballinacourty

12 October 

The Nire v An Rinn (7.00 at Fraher Field)
Can An Rinn reach their first final since 1925? They are certainly edging closer to the top three. The twenty one point drubbing administered by Stradbally (3-18 to 1-3) at this stage last year didn’t sweep them off course. They are back for another attempt.

The Gaeltacht side opened up a clear gap between themselves and the rest of the field with decisive wins over Clashmore, Kilrossanty, Ardmore, Rathgormack and De La Salle. Donie Breathnach remains their marquee forward with a rare ability to kick scores off both feet. Lorcan Ó Corraoin and Fergal Ó Cuirrín supported him in the quarter final but injury continues to curtail the influence of Liam Ó Lonáin. They could be more ruthless in chasing green flags. Amazingly, they haven’t conceded a goal in over six hours of championship football. Questions arise over their midfield and their physicality and those will be addressed on Sunday night. They must hit the ground running here or risk another traumatic experience.

This has the makings of a flowing game of football with The Nire shooting close to 19 points per game. It’s six years since they last captured ultimate honours. They have lost two finals, two semi finals and a quarter final since.

The Nire blasted opponents out of their way during the group games but their scoring rate has decreased in the last two games recording 1-9 and 1-8 respectively against Gaultier and Rathgormack. Four weeks have passed since that quarter final arm wrestle which gives plenty of time for any injury worries to heal. They struggled to break down Rathgormack but had enough forward options to get them through. An Rinn will not bring the same sort of defensive strategy here which will suit their forwards. Shane Ryan and Conor Gleeson should play more prominent parts. A weakness persists under the high ball but this may not be put under the microscope.

Little separates the sides in recent collisions. In the 2011 quarter final, The Nire won by two points (0-12 to 1-7). During the group stages last year, the sides couldn’t be split at Cappoquin (1-10 to 0-13).

The Nire should be able to deal sufficiently with playmaker Donie Breathnach and finally break An Rinn’s resistance at the opposite end. The Ballymacarbry side have scored twelve goals thus far compared to five for their opponents.

Odds: The Nire 1/3 Draw 15/2 An Rinn 11/4
Prediction: The Nire

Gunners' inside threat can unsettle Sion - County Final Preview

A familiar ring to Sunday’s county final pairing at Walsh Park but this renewal of hostilities breaks with the great battles of the nineties and noughties. These two devoured every title available in that period but now they are desperate for a return to the podium.

Ballygunner return to the same place where they let a seven point lead slip last year. Their record in county finals since 2000 stands at four wins and eight losses. A new broom swept away last year’s despair. After tackling the matter directly, Fergal Hartley moved on straight away from the past. Unlike the previous two campaigns, they got their act together from the off. No need for a late dash to the line on this occasion.

Although they dropped below the 20 point mark for the first time against Dungarvan, they are generally returning 26 points per game. Pauric Mahony spared them in the semi final and he leads the standings on 57 points. Full forwards Conor Power (2-16), Brian O’Sullivan (2-26) and JJ Hutchinson (1-15) have all scored freely throughout the season.

After a trouble-free run through the group, the knock-out games presented different challenges. Despite being reduced to fourteen against Lismore, they hit 2-14 in the second half. They encountered trouble with Dungarvan and elimination beckoned when they trailed 1-12 to 0-12 entering the last quarter. Five unanswered points over the final quarter put some doubts to bed over their mental strength.

A couple of defensive tweaks also improved the feel of the team. Barry Coughlan moved back to the more familiar surroundings of full back after a spell on the wing. The return of Philip Mahony alongside Shane Walsh and Wayne Hutchinson gives them a formidable half back division. Walsh swept up plenty of ball when Dungarvan applied the pressure. The demons won’t be banished completely until the cup is safely secured just before five o’clock.

Eight years away for the Monastery men makes this final something of a novelty for all involved.
Mount Sion’s presence could have been predicted back in April after knocking on the door in the previous two campaigns. By late August, that optimism looked misplaced given the manner of the defeats to Ballygunner and Dungarvan.

Five changes in personnel resulted. They decided to batten down the hatches in defence and kept back to back clean sheets. Only seven points from play conceded to Abbeyside and De La Salle managed eight. In the most important move of all, Austin Gleeson nestled into centre back and that also brought the best out of wing men Michael Gaffney and Owen Whelan. The hassling from the forwards also affected the quality of the deliveries.

How will Ballygunner attempt to storm the castle? De La Salle opted for the direct route into Madigan and Moran with limited success. Sion will face a different proposition this time as the Gunners will strike ball in front of their inside line and use the full width of the pitch.

The Dungarvan speedsters caused the Ballygunner backs trouble but Mount Sion’s threat lies elsewhere. They play a short game and the vast majority of their scores come from numbers eight to twelve. Will Ian O’Regan deviate from that strategy? Two of these puckouts resulted in the concession of scores to De La Salle during the first half of the semi final. They will want to keep dropping ball away from Walsh, Hutchinson and Mahony. Richie Roche and Sean Ryan are recognised goal scorers in the full forward division but they feed on breaks around the goal rather than carefully constructed moves. Ballygunner look more likely to nab the first green flag of the afternoon.

The battle between Austin Gleeson and Pauric Mahony will have a huge bearing on which team enters the winner’s enclosure. In all likelihood, these two players will pair off on Sunday. Gleeson defends from the front and that may leave the space for the inside men to exploit. He will have to pick and choose his moments. Sion cannot allow Mahony an extra second to look up and spray his passes.

At the other end, Ballygunner will surely stay tighter to Eoin McGrath than De La Salle managed. He played a huge part in Sion’s blistering start to the semi final. The hard working pair of Martin O’Neill and Stephen Roche hold the edge over their direct opponents based on current form. A lot of ball went through their hands last time around and Roche rushed forward to claim 1-2.

Experience must count for something. Ten Sion starters will line out in a county final for the very first time. Conor Power is odd one out in a Ballygunner fifteen accustomed to these occasions. The potential impact from the stands also needs to be scrutinised. JJ Hutchinson and Peter Hogan made an immediate impression when introduced at crunch times during the knockout rounds. Apart from Kenny Stafford and Ian Galgey, the rest of Sion’s reserves fall largely into the untested category.

Ballygunner needed to pass that character test against Dungarvan. Up to that stage, their average winning margin was 12 points in this year’s championship. They must match Sion’s workrate all over the field and remain patient to break down that new defensive arrangement, especially the strong half back division. They displayed a determination in the semi final to fight and grind out a win. Another steely showing should bring back the bacon and their want must be greater than Sion after last year’s events. Time to stand up and be counted.

Probable Teams

Mount Sion: I O’Regan; M Hoban, C Ryan, S O’Neill; M Gaffney, A Gleeson, O Whelan; Martin O’Neill, S Roche; T Browne, E McGrath, Martin ‘F’ O’Neill; R Roche, S Ryan, G Carroll.

Ballygunner: S O’Keeffe; S O’Keeffe, B Coughlan, A Kirwan; Philip Mahony, W Hutchinson, S Walsh; H Barnes, S O’Sullivan; Barry O’Sullivan, Pauric Mahony, D O’Sullivan; JJ Hutchinson, Brian O’Sullivan, C Power.

Odds: Ballygunner 1/2 Draw 9/1 Mount Sion 15/8

Prediction: Ballygunner

County Final Scorers - Mount Sion v Ballygunner

Mount Sion 
Martin O’Neill 0-45
Austin Gleeson 1-23
Richard Roche 5-5
Tony Browne 0-19
Eoin McGrath 1-14
Stephen Roche 2-8
Sean Ryan 1-2
Michael Gaffney 0-2
Martin ‘F’ O’Neill 0-2
Kenny Stafford 0-2
Ian Galgey 0-2
Ross O’Keeffe 0-1
Gavin Carroll 0-1

Ballygunner 
Pauric Mahony 0-57
Brian O’Sullivan 2-26
Conor Power 2-16
JJ Hutchinson 1-15
Stephen Power 4-4
Barry O’Sullivan 2-7
Shane O’Sullivan 0-7
Harley Barnes 1-2
David Walsh 0-5
Barry Coughlan 1-0
Conor Sheehan 0-2
Tommy Power 0-1
David O’Sullivan 0-1
Shane Walsh 0-1
Peter Hogan 0-1

Champions unlikely to slip-up - SFC Quarter Final Preview

 

The semi final draw for the football championship takes place tonight and based on last week’s dour offering they can’t come quick enough. Ballinacourty and St Saviours complete the quarter finals with the Villagers 1/33 to get the job done. 

Last weekend proved one to forget for a competition in dire need of a lift. Stradbally and Kilrossanty attracted the biggest crowd of the season at Fraher Field last Sunday night. With very few parking spaces available and team sheets running low, both sets of supporters bought into this derby fixture. The contest fell far below expectations as Stradbally re-asserted themselves after a low key introduction. The gap is widening between the big three and the rest.

The Reds delivered their best performance of the season to dismiss fourteen man Kilrossanty. Michael Sweeney (1-2), David Grey (three points) and Tommy Connors (three points) raided scores at will for last year’s beaten finallists. Old reliables Shane Ahearne, Michael Walsh and Paddy Kiely also starred.

Kilrossanty started the season among the chasing pack alongside An Rinn, Rathgormack and Clashmore. Their puzzling form during the group phase followed them into this tie and any disruption to the familiar faces seemed very remote within ten minutes on Sunday night. Their last county title came way back in 1989 and they haven’t reached a final since 2000. Ardmore were the last side outside of the regulars to reach a decider in 2007.

An Rinn remain the last hope of a breakthrough story. Doubts persist over their strength around the centre however. They also have plenty to prove against a quality opposition after last year’s 3-18 to 1-3 semi final thumping from Stradbally.

Their Friday night fixture against De La Salle turned into a snoozefest. Donie Breathnach pulled the strings throughout with nine points (four from play) as they advanced to the semi final stages for the second year running.

3 October

Ballinacourty v St Saviours (8.00 at Fraher Field)
Very hard to look past a cosy win for the champions especially given the hurling commitments of St Saviours. Also consider the evidence of the group stages and the comparison between the two forward lines. Ballinacourty scored 10-71 while Saviours struck 6-28.

On a brighter note, Saviours put up stubborn resistance at the same stage last September. They departed on level terms at half time before Courty got a grip and won by six points (0-14 to 1-5).
After a sluggish opening to 2014, the Eastern side improved as the group stages progressed. They fell to De La Salle by nine points and worse followed against The Nire. It took them an excruciating 43 minutes to get off the mark.

Although they didn’t score in the first half against Ballinameela, they eventually prevailed by 1-8 to 0-6. In a crucial derby game at the end of July, they defeated Gaultier by 3-6 to 1-4 at Walsh Park. Stradbally survived a scare in round five when Saviours levelled with a penalty late on. Paul Houlihan has come to their rescue on many occasions between the posts with Dean and Peter Crowley shielding in front of him. Brian Power, Joey Phelan, Shaun Corcoran and Adam Brophy can produce moments of magic up front. After escaping from the relegation play-off three years in a row (2010 to 2012), this is their second successive quarter final appearance.

During the group stages, Ballinacourty absolutely demolished any opponent in their way. It’s hard to identify a weakness when looking through each line. The leadership provided by Mark Ferncombe and Patrick Hurney in attack frees up Gary Hurney to impose himself at midfield. In defence, they have only given up two goals in five group games.

Rathgormack frustrated the champions in round one and covered up the spaces that the Courty attack burst into at pace. Perfecting such a system requires time however and Saviours have to deal with an inconvenient six day turnaround after raising the Eastern intermediate hurling title last Saturday. Their opponents are relentless and tend to create plenty of opportunities. They had 37 attempts at the target in the 4-18 to 0-6 round four crushing of Clashmore. Even if Saviours arrive with a defensive emphasis, Courty carry too many weapons to be denied.

Odds: Ballinacourty 1/33 Draw 25/1 St Saviours 8/1
Prediction: Ballinacourty

Barron leads with Mahony in pursuit - SHC Top Scorers

Pauric Mahony needs to score at least seven points in Sunday’s county final to overtake Jamie Barron and top the championship charts for the second year running. The Fourmilewater sharp shooter rose to the number one spot after compiling 17 points in round one against Abbeyside and 1-12 during the crucial relegation play-off win over Ardmore. Mount Sion’s leading marksman Martin O’Neill lies in sixth position on 45 points.

Top Scorers
Jamie Barron (Fourmilewater) 1-60
Seamus Prendergast (Ardmore) 4-47
Pauric Mahony (Ballygunner) 0-57
Michael Kearney (Ballyduff Upper) 3-47
Maurice Shanahan (Lismore) 4-35
Martin O’Neill (Mount Sion) 0-45
Owen Connors (Passage) 1-38
Patrick Curran (Dungarvan) 3-29
Jake Dillon (De La Salle) 1-32
Brian O’Sullivan (Ballygunner) 2-26

Mount Sion v Ballygunner County Final Clashes

Mount Sion and Ballygunner have collided sixteen times in county finals. Sion have claimed eight wins, the Gunners stand on five with three draws (1988, 1995 and 2003). Ballygunner’s last success against the Monastery side came back in 1999.

1963
Mount Sion 4-6 Ballygunner 3-4

1965
Mount Sion 3-2 Ballygunner 2-4

1966
Ballygunner 2-6 Mount Sion 2-3

1968
Ballygunner 2-10 Mount Sion 3-2

1988
Mount Sion 0-17 Ballygunner 3-8

1988 Replay
Mount Sion 2-15 Ballygunner 3-8

1992
Ballygunner 1-12 Mount Sion 2-7

1995
Ballygunner 1-8 Mount Sion 1-8

1995 Replay
Ballygunner 3-13 Mount Sion 1-17

1999
Ballygunner 1-18 Mount Sion 2-10

2000
Mount Sion 1-20 Ballygunner 0-9

2002
Mount Sion 1-19 Ballygunner 2-14

2003
Mount Sion 1-14 Ballygunner 2-11

2003 Replay
Mount Sion 1-14 Ballygunner 1-10

2004
Mount Sion 4-14 Ballygunner 4-7

2006
Mount Sion 2-13 Ballygunner 0-12

Dungarvan CBS 2-11 High School Clonmel 0-7 - Harty Cup

 

Two goals in the space of three second half minutes propelled Dungarvan CBS to a ten point win against High School Clonmel in their Harty Cup opener.

In the October sunshine at Cappoquin, Glen Waters and Mikey Phelan delivered the fatal blows for last year’s quarter finalists. Darragh Lyons read the play superbly from centre back and slotted six placed balls.

The CBS shaded a lacklustre first half by six points to five. Both sides showed signs of rustiness as they struck six wides apiece and only three points arrived from play. Mike Kearns hit a booming effort from 70 metres as Dungarvan led 0-4 to 0-1 after the opening quarter. Ross Peters judged a sideline cut from the right wing for Clonmel. The dangerous David Roberts slung a point over his shoulder to narrow the deficit to one after 25 minutes (0-5 to 0-4). Darragh Lyons converted his third free before Roberts nabbed his second approaching half time.

Little separated the sides at the outset of the second half. Lyons struck over a free and a 65’ but the High School reacted courtesy of a Roberts free and a well taken Kevin Keogh single (0-8 to 0-7).

The deal breaker arrived on 40 minutes. A lengthy delivery from Darragh Lyons was broken down by Mikey Phelan and Glen Waters drilled a rocket to the bottom corner past Luke Delahunty. They were out of sight two minutes later when Mikey Phelan glanced home a Lyons free from close range. Late points through Kearns, Aaron Donnelly and Lyons widened the winning margin to double figures. The Dungarvan defence, where captain Michael Cronin, Lyons and John Curran stood out, restricted their opponents to just two second half points. High School midfielder Danny Owens received a second yellow card with six minutes left, a decision hotly disputed by players and mentors.

Elsewhere, Harty Cup holders Ard Scoil Ris discarded Blackwater CS by 1-20 to 0-9 in Cahir. Limerick minor star Ronan Lynch scored 1-9 for the winners. Gaelcolaiste Mhuire had four points to spare over De La Salle College (1-14 to 1-10) at Ardmore.

Scorers for Dungarvan CBS: D Lyons 0-6 (5fs, 1 65’), M Kearns 0-4 (2fs), G Waters, M Phelan 1-0 each, A Donnelly 0-1 (1f).

Scorers for High School Clonmel: R Peters (2fs, 1 s-l), D Roberts (1f) 0-3 each, K Keogh 0-1.

Dungarvan CBS: D Looby; TJ Veale, M Cronin, D Booth; C Barry, D Lyons, J Curran; A Donnelly, S Crotty; M Phelan, L O’Connell, M Kearns; M Culloo; E Crotty, G Waters.

Subs used: R Shine, A Kirwan.

High School Clonmel: L Delahunty; D Phelan, K Peters, J Ahearne; D Brennan, P Maher, Michael Barlow; Matt Barlow, D Owens; K Keogh, D Roberts, M Keogh; M Hogan, R Peters, D Ryan.

Subs used: S Ryan, C Bates.

Referee: T O’Sullivan

Stradbally and Kilrossanty out to impress – SFC Quarter Final Predictions

 

The pick of the quarter final ties in the football championship goes ahead on Sunday evening as neighbours Stradbally and Kilrossanty have plenty to prove. The Reds only lost one group game but didn’t appear as intimidating like previous seasons. Gaultier, De La Salle and St Saviours all made them sweat for the points. An erratic green and gold outfit are difficult to assess but they have saved their best displays for the quarter finals in recent times. In Friday’s quarter final, An Rinn are strongly fancied to halt a season of progress for newcomers De La Salle. The same quartet from 2013 look poised to progress. The final quarter final between Ballinacourty and St Saviours is pencilled in for next Sunday.

Friday September 26

An Rinn v De La Salle (8.00 at Fraher Field)
An Rinn are targeting a second successive semi final to cement their status as a top four club. They won four out of five in the group games and emerged as the only team yet to concede a goal. When they play at a high tempo, their movement and pace are hard for any opposition to cope with. Donie Breathnach, Lorcan Ó Corraoin and Liam Ó Lonáin carry danger in a forward line exceeding twenty points per game. They may be a little vulnerable around midfield. De La Salle won their first game against St Saviours and their last game against Ballinameela to squeeze through. They scored 4-46 and let in 6-50. Ian Cantwell is one to watch. He moved to full forward early in that crucial fifth round tie and scored five from play. Given the one month lay-off, it is the ideal time to take on An Rinn but this is a step up in class. The intermediate holders are in bonus territory here. The Gaeltacht side should get over this obstacle but can they trouble the big three?

Odds: An Rinn 4/9 Draw 15/2 De La Salle 21/10
Prediction: An Rinn

Sunday September 28

Stradbally v Kilrossanty (7.00 at Fraher Field)
Kilrossanty did enough to qualify for the quarters but for the third year running they crash straight into a monster truck. They rattled The Nire in 2012 and 2013 but came out at the wrong end of the result. During the group games, John Kiely’s side only caught fire against Rathgormack when they blazed 3-14. Apart from that scoring splurge, the biggest total they put up was 1-9 in the draw with Clashmore. The pressure for points rests again on Paul Whyte and Joey Veale. Stradbally have tweaked things but the starting fifteen remains along familiar lines. Jack Mullaney and Michael Sweeney are the two fresh faces with David Grey and Christopher Casey trying to muscle their way into contention. During the earlier rounds, Ger Power and Michael Walsh formed the spine of the defence but the ‘Brick’ may move further forward. Both sides will improve on their group stage showings as they gave the impression of holding something in reserve. In an important duel, Tommy Prendergast and Shane Ahearne will wrestle for the right to rule midfield. Despite the high mileage, Stradbally are not ready to let go just yet.

Odds: Stradbally 1/3 Draw 8/1 Kilrossanty 11/4
Prediction: Stradbally

No certainties in four horse race – SHC Semi Final Predictions

If you attempted to pick a winner back in April, more than likely your horse is still running. De La Salle and Ballygunner are slightly favoured for this weekend's semis but by no means are they bolting clear of the field. An all blue county final wouldn't be regarded as a seismic shock. The fourth semi final meeting of the noughties between Salle and Sion will verify their title credentials. There is a freshness about the Ballygunner and Dungarvan pairing that brings the possibility of more fireworks after the conclusion of the All Ireland football final on Sunday.

Saturday 20 September

De La Salle v Mount Sion (5.30 at Walsh Park)
Mount Sion hit their third semi final on the trot in better shape than last season and boosted by a strong team effort against Abbeyside.

Anthony Kirwan had some hard calls to make in the aftermath of the Dungarvan game. The reworked defence restricted their opponents to just seven points from play. Austin Gleeson settled into the number six shirt and Owen Whelan benefitted from the move to wing back. Man of the match Martin O’Neill bossed the middle for the second half and struck over three from play. Five of the starting six forwards scored. Eoin McGrath was by far the most effective at eleven. Richie Foley played a prominent role for Abbeyside last Sunday yet still conceded four points to McGrath. He is buzzing at present and maximising every possession.

The next question for Kirwan is whether he sticks with the short puckouts used most noticeably during the first half. The absence of obvious targets from high deliveries suggest that they may look to free up their corner backs again. De La Salle should be on their toes and force Ian O’Regan to go long.

Allen Dillon's side remain the favourites to land ultimate honours but their quarter final display raised a few alarm bells. They hit 1-16 but accumulated 18 wides (nine in each half). They cannot be slow out of the blocks again as they found themselves five points down to Tallow after the first quarter. A fortnight of hard work should get that flat performance out of their system.

John Keane spared them embarrassment with a stunning goal and an assuredness in possession that appeared absent from the other front men. Their marquee forwards certainly didn’t deliver to their expected levels last time. Jake Dillon is unlikely to strike five wides again and John Mullane will make more plays.

Free taking will be an important element to a game unlikely to overwork the scoreboard operator. De La Salle experienced difficulty in that department last time and had to try out three different players. Will Shane Ryan earn a starting berth here after sitting out the entire sixty two weeks ago? By comparison, Martin O’Neill slotted nine out of ten chances last Sunday and any fouls from midfield upwards will be dispatched.

The central area is set to be extremely congested on Saturday evening. Salle will pin their hopes on ruling this territory. Shane McNulty has proven his worth going in both directions and Dean Twomey is returning to something approaching 2012 form. Kevin Moran can also offer more from centre back. The impact of the bench will also influence the final outcome and De La Salle hold more in reserve here with their injury troubles clearing up. In a one-score game, Salle’s star quality in attack and deeper squad may just secure a fourth final appearance in seven attempts.

Odds: De La Salle 8/15 Draw 9/1 Mount Sion 17/10
Prediction: De La Salle

Sunday 21 September

Ballygunner v Dungarvan (6.15 at Fraher Field)
This has the makings of a shootout and shouldn’t disappoint in that regard. Two of the liveliest forward divisions left in the competition and both are likely to go for broke and go for goal. Dungarvan have raised 14 green flags just one more than their opponents.

Ballygunner have done very little wrong in their bid to amend the events of 2013. 2-14 was the right response to an underwhelming first half showing against Lismore. Eight different players contributed. Pauric Mahony and JJ Hutchinson did the heavy lifting but Brian O’Sullivan and Conor Power also shot five points between them. Hutchinson stated his case to management through a second half injection of 1-3 and will surely make the chosen fifteen.

Lismore did expose some deficiencies in the last line of defence with Dan Shanahan and David Prendergast making inroads during the second quarter last Sunday. Barry Coughlan has been operating at wing back in recent games but Fergal Hartley may be tempted to restore him to number three.

Pace and youth are two lethal commodities that the Blues are in possession of. The distribution of scores between the six forwards looks impressive on paper. They don’t entirely depend on one member because each are chipping in evenly. Patrick Curran (3-21) leads the way but Cathal Curran (5-13), Cormac Curran (2-21) and Gavin Crotty (3-17) are close behind. Ryan Donnelly on 1-13 has scored in every game and Michael Kiely has grabbed six points.

James O’Connor trusted his young full back line to take on Passage and they frustrated their markers. Kevin Daly will probably take on Brian O’Sullivan who has hit a tidy 2-24 from play this season. How to deal with Pauric Mahony is arguably a bigger tactical call. Ballygunner have defeated Dungarvan in the last two meetings at Fraher Field and Mahony masterminded both by drifting into open space unhindered. Mahony scored eleven points in the group game last August and posted three points from play during the first half five months ago. Will Jamie Nagle perform the man marking role or will O’Connor assign a midfielder to mind Mahony and free up Nagle? The workrate of the two forward lines will also be worth watching as both teams will be eager to interfere with the quality of ball.

A ruthless streak is still missing in the Dungarvan ranks when they get on top. Significant wide tallies remain bothersome. Nine second half misses nearly allowed Passage complete an audacious comeback. Ballygunner usually take full advantage of any sign of weakness.

The group game can be dismissed slightly but Dungarvan cannot allow Ballygunner stride clear again. With an eleven point half time lead they had the game sewn up in April. A more composed Ballygunner get the vote.

Odds: Ballygunner 8/15 Draw 9/1 Dungarvan 17/10
Prediction: Ballygunner

Quick Guide to Waterford SHC Final Four

 

Manager: Anthony Kirwan
Captain: Michael Gaffney
County Titles: 35
Scores For: 8-109
Scores Against: 7-79
Top Scorer: Martin O’Neill (0-38)
Key Man: Austin Gleeson
Probable Fifteen: I O’Regan; M Hoban, C Ryan, S O’Neill; M Gaffney, A Gleeson, O Whelan; Martin O’Neill, S Roche; T Browne, E McGrath, Martin ‘F’ O’Neill; R Roche, S Ryan, G Carroll.
Odds: 9/2

Manager: Allen Dillon
Captain: Jack Kennedy
County Titles: 3
Scores For: 9-93
Scores Against: 7-66
Top Scorer: Jake Dillon (1-22)
Key Man: Kevin Moran
Probable Fifteen: J Coady; O Keevers, I Flynn, S Dalton; J Kennedy, K Moran, S McNulty; A Farrell, D Twomey; P Nevin, J Mullane, J Dillon; D Greene, J Keane, S Ryan.
Odds: 5/4

Manager: James O’Connor
Captain: Jamie Nagle
County Titles: 6
Scores For: 14-100
Scores Against: 8-87
Top Scorer: Patrick Curran (3-21)
Key Man: Jamie Nagle
Probable Fifteen: D Duggan; A Donnelly, K Daly, C Sheridan; D Lyons, J Nagle, S Ryan; E Healy, K Moore; G Crotty, Cormac Curran, M Kiely; P Curran, R Donnelly, Cathal Curran.
Odds: 11/2

Manager: Fergal Hartley
Captain: Harley Barnes
County Titles: 12
Scores For: 13-129
Scores Against: 8-72
Top Scorer: Pauric Mahony (0-48)
Key Man: Pauric Mahony
Probable Fifteen: S O’Keeffe; R Cunningham, S O’Keeffe, A Kirwan; S Walsh, W Hutchinson, B Coughlan; S O’Sullivan, H Barnes; Barry O’Sullivan, P Mahony, D O’Sullivan; C Power, Brian O’Sullivan, JJ Hutchinson.
Odds: 7/4