Stretched Top Corner:
Special Report:
Experience of Veterans Key to Historic Victory:
The ‘Veterans’ team, captained with great skill and guile, by Jnr. Smith and coached by the evergreen Sean Young saw off a determined challenge from the ‘Apprentice Boys’ during the ‘Blue Riband’ event at La na gClub. The Veterans employed some novel and effective tactics in pursuit of glory. These included the ‘weighting’ of the left wing by playing two contrasting players in that key strategic position, Kit O’Connor and ‘Lightening’ Michael Gilmartin, a scratch player. The quiet disguising of their players as umpires and linesmen created considerable confusion in the ‘Apprentice’ ranks with Coach Young making a Kamikaze intervention at one stage. Tom Kearney was coolness personified in goals at one stage taking time batting the ball onto the upright before clearing effectively and always finding a team mate, so initiating those sweeping downfield attacks which became a feature of their play. The cleverness of John McLoughlin, at midfield, in pretending to go for the ball but waving it on to a better placed colleague was most interesting and visually, in a sort of ballet way, disarming. The scoring threat for the 'Veterans' came from the twin tubs (towers) up front Jnr. Smith and Bernard Shannon. Bernard had an intriguing duel with ‘Apprentice’ Conor Tivnan. The score of the game was a cracking Kevin O’Connor goal which sealed victory and this afforded the luxury of a penalty miss for the ‘Veterans’ as the ball boggled on the uneven ground. In an analysis of performances suffice to say that all contributed in their own unique ways and as per pre-match coaching etc. Billy Hanmore, greying hair streaming in the wind of his slipstream as he confronted opposition raids, did well, Fergal O’Donnell scored one majestic point, Vinnie Flanagan was a rock at centre back, Pat Goldrick showed he was willing to learn from the tough tackling rugby he has seen recently in Croke Park, Aidan Lavin laid aside the demands of high office when called upon, like Obama going to Burger Queen. This demonstrates that the generals can also be formidable in ‘no man’s land’. Charlie Candon was flawless, towards the end, as referee, and, after the initial resistance, showed willingness to adapt to the advice of the ‘Veteran’ rules' spokesmen of which there were a few. His initial reliance on rules reminded me of what Dominick Connolly of Fuerty said to me once: "The trouble with some young referees nowadays is that they don't seem to care who wins the game!"
The ‘Veterans’ team, captained with great skill and guile, by Jnr. Smith and coached by the evergreen Sean Young saw off a determined challenge from the ‘Apprentice Boys’ during the ‘Blue Riband’ event at La na gClub. The Veterans employed some novel and effective tactics in pursuit of glory. These included the ‘weighting’ of the left wing by playing two contrasting players in that key strategic position, Kit O’Connor and ‘Lightening’ Michael Gilmartin, a scratch player. The quiet disguising of their players as umpires and linesmen created considerable confusion in the ‘Apprentice’ ranks with Coach Young making a Kamikaze intervention at one stage. Tom Kearney was coolness personified in goals at one stage taking time batting the ball onto the upright before clearing effectively and always finding a team mate, so initiating those sweeping downfield attacks which became a feature of their play. The cleverness of John McLoughlin, at midfield, in pretending to go for the ball but waving it on to a better placed colleague was most interesting and visually, in a sort of ballet way, disarming. The scoring threat for the 'Veterans' came from the twin tubs (towers) up front Jnr. Smith and Bernard Shannon. Bernard had an intriguing duel with ‘Apprentice’ Conor Tivnan. The score of the game was a cracking Kevin O’Connor goal which sealed victory and this afforded the luxury of a penalty miss for the ‘Veterans’ as the ball boggled on the uneven ground. In an analysis of performances suffice to say that all contributed in their own unique ways and as per pre-match coaching etc. Billy Hanmore, greying hair streaming in the wind of his slipstream as he confronted opposition raids, did well, Fergal O’Donnell scored one majestic point, Vinnie Flanagan was a rock at centre back, Pat Goldrick showed he was willing to learn from the tough tackling rugby he has seen recently in Croke Park, Aidan Lavin laid aside the demands of high office when called upon, like Obama going to Burger Queen. This demonstrates that the generals can also be formidable in ‘no man’s land’. Charlie Candon was flawless, towards the end, as referee, and, after the initial resistance, showed willingness to adapt to the advice of the ‘Veteran’ rules' spokesmen of which there were a few. His initial reliance on rules reminded me of what Dominick Connolly of Fuerty said to me once: "The trouble with some young referees nowadays is that they don't seem to care who wins the game!"
Returning to the game; Stephen Bohan was the subject of some very robust tackling and the tapes are being reviewed to see if any further action will be taken. Paul Beirne and Gerry Cregg basically came from nowhere to create confusion. Paul was suitably attired for the sunshine. Paul Dugnan, who cost so much on the transfer market earlier in the year, is adapting nicely and Brendan Tiernan really revels on these big occasions, though both of the latter missed the important team photograph. This may have to be reorganised at one of the functions. The Veterans led from start to finish by four points and their escape to victory was greeted with prolonged celebrations which demonstrated how much it all meant to these experienced players. (Indeed Martin Purcell was seen later proudly wearing the winner’s medal pinned to his lapel a la a GAA President). However the captain, Jnr. Smith and Vice-Captain Kit O’Connor graciously did visit the losing dressing room with words of encouragement and advice to the ‘Apprentices’ who were visibly shaken by the result.
A small group met afterwards in 'The Showboat Inn' and an ad hoc committee was formed to organise appropriate recognition for the achievement of the ‘Veterans’. The committee is conscious that some, though not all of the veterans, would not want an extravagent display in these straitened times. There is the possibility that members of the team will be visiting local schools and institutions, in the coming weeks, with the cup. Perhaps something like the 2006 All-Ireland winning minors. There may be a short trip through the town at some appropriate time to the sound of ‘Simply the Best’. Other possibilities include exhibition matches on other high profile days, acting as radio or T.V.analyists. Members will also be available for medal presentation ceremonies and such like (note: on a strict rota basis, as it a full panel effort, ‘one for all and all for one kind of mantra) and of course they are now bound to be guests of honour at the Annual Dinner Dance. So we look forward to that. I know that people in New York, London and various Australian cities involved in GAA affairs read these notes religiously so perhaps panel members might volunteer to do some promotional work, for the expansion of the games, in places like Dubai, Hong Kong, New York or Sydney. If this is a requirement all contacts are to be made through their accompanying liaison officer at: tconboy1@eircom.net.
A small group met afterwards in 'The Showboat Inn' and an ad hoc committee was formed to organise appropriate recognition for the achievement of the ‘Veterans’. The committee is conscious that some, though not all of the veterans, would not want an extravagent display in these straitened times. There is the possibility that members of the team will be visiting local schools and institutions, in the coming weeks, with the cup. Perhaps something like the 2006 All-Ireland winning minors. There may be a short trip through the town at some appropriate time to the sound of ‘Simply the Best’. Other possibilities include exhibition matches on other high profile days, acting as radio or T.V.analyists. Members will also be available for medal presentation ceremonies and such like (note: on a strict rota basis, as it a full panel effort, ‘one for all and all for one kind of mantra) and of course they are now bound to be guests of honour at the Annual Dinner Dance. So we look forward to that. I know that people in New York, London and various Australian cities involved in GAA affairs read these notes religiously so perhaps panel members might volunteer to do some promotional work, for the expansion of the games, in places like Dubai, Hong Kong, New York or Sydney. If this is a requirement all contacts are to be made through their accompanying liaison officer at: tconboy1@eircom.net.
Spectators quietly left the Abbey's field of dreams, thinking, though not necessarily saying, that they had witnessed something special and were glad to be able to say, in the future, 'I was there that day'.
La nag Club a Great Success:
Thanks to all who made the Lá na gClub celebrations on Sunday such a tremendous success. There was an excellent turnout of players, officials and supporters at the parade to St Joseph's Church and at the Mass which was celebrated by Canon Gerry Hanley and which included Club members participated in many aspects of the ceremony. The welcome return of sunshine added to the days activities in the Abbey Park which included the 125th flag raising ceremony, under age football blitzes, an intriguing fathers and sons football game, cic fada and poc fada competitions. The puc fada was won by Barry Greaney with Fergal O’Donnell second and long time leader, Tony C. third.
There are many people and groups who deserve thanks and great credit for their contributions. I will venture to list them here; Canon Hanley for his help in the church celebrations, the choir, Louise Carty and the traditional group. Boyle Marching Band who shone in the sunshine. Special thanks are due to the Fishing Club for provision of barbecue facilities and to Michael and his team who looked after the catering. To Aidan and his team in the preparations. To Martin Dolan who strove to have a good programme in place, to Ciaran and his blitz mentors and teams, to Jnr. and his team who participated valiantly at considerable personal risk, to Liam Clifford for the truck and gas, Mary Regan photographer to the other snappers to Sean O’Dowd and realboyle, the media for the mentions, Marian and Spar, Charlie and the puc fada. There are very good pics emerging from the day starting with the veterans team here on realboyle. Now if I have left anyone out, and I imagine I have, please let me know so that I can rectify same.
Indeed such was the success of the day that it has been mentioned as a possible an annual or bi-annual event perhaps tying in with other town festivals.
County Tickets Meeting:
There will be a meeting of the Club on this Wednesday evening at 9 p.m. in the Royal Hotel to review progress on the sales of the Annual County Board Draw tickets. Tickets, which are €100 each, are available from all Club officers. Now that La na gClub has been successfully negotiated it is important to get this item wrapped up and the quota reached and put to bed.
First Aid Course:
There will be a first aid course held in Boyle on Saturday 23rd May from 10am-4pm in the Resource Centre
Club mentors are asked to attend. Names should be given to Club Secretary, Kathleen Hanmore at 086 1229421.
Juniors:
The Feelystone junior team suffered a four point loss to St Ronan’s in the Div 4 League on Monday last in Ballyfarnon.
Intermediates:
The McGovern Directional Drilling Intermediate team’s O'Gara Cup game versus Ballinameen which was due to have been played on Saturday last fell victim to the weather. Their next outing is on Sunday next in Tulsk against the home side.
U 14s’:
The Under 14s had a good win over Castlerea in the league on Thursday last. Star of the show was left half back Luke Brennan. They will meet Clan na Gael in Abbey Park on this Thursday evening.
Abbey College Success:
Congratulations to Barry Greaney and his team of second years from Abbey Community College on their well merited Connacht title win over Strokestown in Ballyhaunis, in atrocious conditions, last week.
Boyle Ladies and County Success:
Congratulations to the Roscommon ladies on winning the Division 3 National League title on Saturday and especially to our Boyle connections-Boyle players Maria Keenehan who had an excellent game and her sisters Sinead, Susanne and Sarah who were panel members and Boyle native, Marla Candon who helped Roscommon rule the midfield area.
La nag Club a Great Success:
Thanks to all who made the Lá na gClub celebrations on Sunday such a tremendous success. There was an excellent turnout of players, officials and supporters at the parade to St Joseph's Church and at the Mass which was celebrated by Canon Gerry Hanley and which included Club members participated in many aspects of the ceremony. The welcome return of sunshine added to the days activities in the Abbey Park which included the 125th flag raising ceremony, under age football blitzes, an intriguing fathers and sons football game, cic fada and poc fada competitions. The puc fada was won by Barry Greaney with Fergal O’Donnell second and long time leader, Tony C. third.
There are many people and groups who deserve thanks and great credit for their contributions. I will venture to list them here; Canon Hanley for his help in the church celebrations, the choir, Louise Carty and the traditional group. Boyle Marching Band who shone in the sunshine. Special thanks are due to the Fishing Club for provision of barbecue facilities and to Michael and his team who looked after the catering. To Aidan and his team in the preparations. To Martin Dolan who strove to have a good programme in place, to Ciaran and his blitz mentors and teams, to Jnr. and his team who participated valiantly at considerable personal risk, to Liam Clifford for the truck and gas, Mary Regan photographer to the other snappers to Sean O’Dowd and realboyle, the media for the mentions, Marian and Spar, Charlie and the puc fada. There are very good pics emerging from the day starting with the veterans team here on realboyle. Now if I have left anyone out, and I imagine I have, please let me know so that I can rectify same.
Indeed such was the success of the day that it has been mentioned as a possible an annual or bi-annual event perhaps tying in with other town festivals.
County Tickets Meeting:
There will be a meeting of the Club on this Wednesday evening at 9 p.m. in the Royal Hotel to review progress on the sales of the Annual County Board Draw tickets. Tickets, which are €100 each, are available from all Club officers. Now that La na gClub has been successfully negotiated it is important to get this item wrapped up and the quota reached and put to bed.
First Aid Course:
There will be a first aid course held in Boyle on Saturday 23rd May from 10am-4pm in the Resource Centre
Club mentors are asked to attend. Names should be given to Club Secretary, Kathleen Hanmore at 086 1229421.
Juniors:
The Feelystone junior team suffered a four point loss to St Ronan’s in the Div 4 League on Monday last in Ballyfarnon.
Intermediates:
The McGovern Directional Drilling Intermediate team’s O'Gara Cup game versus Ballinameen which was due to have been played on Saturday last fell victim to the weather. Their next outing is on Sunday next in Tulsk against the home side.
U 14s’:
The Under 14s had a good win over Castlerea in the league on Thursday last. Star of the show was left half back Luke Brennan. They will meet Clan na Gael in Abbey Park on this Thursday evening.
Abbey College Success:
Congratulations to Barry Greaney and his team of second years from Abbey Community College on their well merited Connacht title win over Strokestown in Ballyhaunis, in atrocious conditions, last week.
Boyle Ladies and County Success:
Congratulations to the Roscommon ladies on winning the Division 3 National League title on Saturday and especially to our Boyle connections-Boyle players Maria Keenehan who had an excellent game and her sisters Sinead, Susanne and Sarah who were panel members and Boyle native, Marla Candon who helped Roscommon rule the midfield area.
Boyle Ladies Notes:
Boyle Ladies extend congratulations to the Roscommon Ladies Team who won the
Division 3 League Title on Saturday last.
Juniors:
Boyle Junior Ladies have their first Championship match away to Castlerea this Saturday at 7.3opm.
U 12 ‘Cubs’:
U12 Cubs play St Ronan’s in Boyle this Wednesday at 7.00pm. Training
continues each Monday and Friday.
U 12 ‘Lions’:
U12 Lions have finished the first round of their competition and have a bye
this week. Their next match is quarter-final on the 24th of May. Their opponents and venue
are to be confirmed.
Best Wishes:
The Club send their best wishes to all the girls receiving
confirmation this coming Sunday.
U 14s’:
U14 Training continues every Tuesday and Friday for this panel.
La na gClub:
La na gClub was a great success and a big thank you to all involved who made
this such an enjoyable day. The U12 long kick winner was Sinead Meehan and the U14 long
kick winner was Orla Nicholson. Well done.
That’s it
Fiona
Boyle Ladies extend congratulations to the Roscommon Ladies Team who won the
Division 3 League Title on Saturday last.
Juniors:
Boyle Junior Ladies have their first Championship match away to Castlerea this Saturday at 7.3opm.
U 12 ‘Cubs’:
U12 Cubs play St Ronan’s in Boyle this Wednesday at 7.00pm. Training
continues each Monday and Friday.
U 12 ‘Lions’:
U12 Lions have finished the first round of their competition and have a bye
this week. Their next match is quarter-final on the 24th of May. Their opponents and venue
are to be confirmed.
Best Wishes:
The Club send their best wishes to all the girls receiving
confirmation this coming Sunday.
U 14s’:
U14 Training continues every Tuesday and Friday for this panel.
La na gClub:
La na gClub was a great success and a big thank you to all involved who made
this such an enjoyable day. The U12 long kick winner was Sinead Meehan and the U14 long
kick winner was Orla Nicholson. Well done.
That’s it
Fiona
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