Match Reports Adult

Junior Football Championship - Round 1 Playoff [1 September 2017]

GARRYCASTLE 0-9 Athlone 3-20

Garrycastles Junior team made their exit from this year's championship on Friday last at home to near neighbours Athlone with a mediocre performance from an understrength home team.

This was a one sided contest with Athlone the dominant team for most of the game. Athlone were 3 points to the good before Paul Mulvihill opened Garrycastles account which was quickly followed by a point from Robbie Shine. This was as close as it got as Athlone took control and by the 15th minute were 6 points in front. Garrycastle managed two more points in the first half while Athlone went on a point scoring spree and wrapped up the first half with a goal to leave the score at the break 0-4 to 1-15 in the visitors' favour.

The second half was defined by Athlone's addition of two further goals while Garrycastle had little to offer in terms of scoring threat. As the gap in the score line increased both sides emptied their benches.

GARRYCASTLE: Michael Fagan, Bill Kelly, Mark Curley, Adam Keena, Conor Duignan, Gary Mullery, Enda Keena, Eric Kearney, David O'Shaughnessy (0-1), Bryan McCormack, Ciaran O’Neill, (0-1), Peadar Mulvihill, Paul O’Donovan (0-2, 1f), Robbie Shine (0-2), Paul Mulvihill (0-3),

Subs: Enda Mulvihill for Conor Duignan, Richie Byrne for Bryan McCormack, Eoin Duignan for Eric Kearney, Mark Denby for Peadar Mulvihill, Kevin McCormack for Paul Mulvihill.

Senior Football Championship - Group 1 [26 August 2017]

KILLUCAN 1-10, GARRYCASTLE 1-08

Garrycastle travelled to Cusack Park on Saturday evening for their fifth and final group game with no chance of progressing to the knock-out stages. Killucan, with a quarter or semi-final to play for, showed greater urgency early on and took an early lead but Garrycastle then missed a number of good chances before Alex Gardiner equalised after ten minutes. The teams exchanged points at the end of the first quarter before Garrycastle spurned the first of several goal opportunities when James Dolan’s close-range effort was deflected for a “45”, which Alex Gardiner pointed. Another good Garrycastle move ended with the award of a penalty for a foot block but Tom O’Halloran’s shot was too close to the goalkeeper. A minute later, however, a close-range effort from Conor Cosgrove was saved but Tom O’Halloran blasted the rebound to the net. Garrycastle continued to waste some excellent chances but they had a let-off themselves when good work by Sean Brennan and Conor Cosgrove averted a Killucan effort on goal. In injury time Killucan notched two points to leave Garrycastle ahead by 1-3 to 0-4.

Killucan scored three quick points on the resumption to take the lead but then appeared to self-destruct when they had two players dismissed in quick succession. Conor Cosgrove pointed a long-range free to equalise and with two extra players Garrycastle looked set to push on for victory. However, it was a further ten minutes before Alex Gardiner eventually gave them the lead. Killucan soon equalised before Dessie Dolan set up his cousin James for a point to restore the lead. A point from a free that was moved forward for dissent gave Killucan another equaliser before Tom O’Halloran restored Garrycastle’s lead after 56 minutes. Further Garrycastle misses left them vulnerable to a late surge by Killucan and as the game went into injury time a speculative cross by Killucan was collected by Sean Brennan but pressure from a Killucan attacker forced the ball over the line. Damien Rushe reduced the margin to a point but in the final minute of injury time Killucan clinched an unlikely victory with another point.

So ends Garrycastle’s championship campaign for 2017. As they reflect on their five games, the players will realise that a place in the final stages was certainly within their grasp and that valuable points were lost through poor finishing, especially in the games against Tyrrellspass and Killucan.

GARRYCASTLE: Sean Brennan, Jack Donohue, Mark McCallon, Gary McCallon, James Dolan (0-1), John Gaffey, Neill Rattigan, Doran Harte, Mattie Guiheen, Johnny McGuire, Tom O’Halloran (1-2), Eoin Monaghan, Conor Cosgrove (0-1, free), Alex Gardiner (0-3, 1 “45”), Cathal Mannion.

Subs: Damien Rushe (0-1) for Rattigan (h/t), Michael Monaghan for E. Monaghan (37 mins), Anthony Larkin for McGuire (38 mins), Dessie Dolan for Cosgrove (47 mins).

Senior Football Championship - Group 1 [22 August 2017]

GARRYCASTLE 1-08 MULLINGAR SHAMROCKS 1-09

Garrycastle seniors suffered another heart breaking one point defeat on Tuesday last losing out to Mullingar Shamrocks. The evening was very dark even before the game started and turned wet in the second half. An early goal gave Garrycastle a great start when a dangerous ball into the square was turned into his own goal by a Mullingar defender. Two points for Shamrocks came before Tom O’Halloran added a point for Garrycastle. Alex Gardiner pointed from a difficult angle before Conor Cosgrave pointed a free to leave Garrycastle 4 points ahead after 20 minutes. A very good move resulted in Eoin Monaghan giving the final pass to Alex Gardiner whose shot was very well saved by the Mullingar keeper. Two Mullingar points and a very good Cathal Mannion point left the halftime score 1-4 to 0-4.

With the rain coming down the second saw Dessie Dolan introduced for Jonathan Maguire. It started with a Tom O’Halloran point after a fine James Dolan run. Two Mullingar points preceded a fine Conor Cosgrave solo point. A long ball towards the Garrycastle goal found county player Denis Corroon who netted to level the scores after 44 minutes. With conditions deteriorating Garrycastle in particular were struggling to maintain control of the ball eve though they were getting plenty of possession. Points were swapped, Conor Cosgrave scoring a free for Garrycastle , before Mullingar Shamrocks got two points on the trot. A Dessie Dolan free reduced the lead to one and try as they might Garrycastle were unable to get the leveller. A shot from distance in the last minute drifted wide just after a Dessie Dolan shot fell just short and was cleared. The ref sounded the final whistle leaving Garrycastle at the wrong side of a one point game for the second time in this championship.

Garrycastle played very well in the first half but their play deteriorated in the wet conditions of the second half. They persevered trying to play the ball short through the half forward line which repeatedly broke down starving the inside forwards of possession.

GARRYCASTLE:- Sean Brennan, Jack Donoghue, Mark McCallon, Gary McCallon, Neil Rhattigan, John Gaffey, James Dolan, Justin Barrett, Mathew Guiheen, Eoin Monaghan, Tom O’Halloran, Jonathan Maguire, Cathal Mannion, Alex Gardiner, Conor Cosgrave

Subs:- Dessie Dolan for Jonathan Maguire; Michael Monaghan for Eoin Monaghan; Anthony Larkin for Mathew Guiheen; Damien Rushe for Conor Cosgrave.

Junior Football Championship (Group C) [10 August 2017]

Garrycastle 2-8 Athlone 4-17

After two wins in the championship to date the juniors good run came to a sudden halt when they played Athlone in Pairc Ciarain last week. Having lost players to the seniors and to holidays Garrycastle were down eight players since the first round. Despite this the lads competed well and stayed in touch until a few minutes before halftime when they were only three points down but the latter stages of the half saw Athlone scoring 1-3 to leave the halftime score 3-7 to 1-4. It was a very open half in which both sides had goal chances. The Garrycastle goal came from Paul O'Donovan and the forwards had some good chances that didn’t yield a goal. At the other end Garrycastle goalkeeper Shane McHenry brought off a good save The third quarter saw Athlone build a big lead as the Garrycastle challenge faded. However a goal by Alan Daly revived Garrycastle ‘s challenge to some degree and they added a further three points. It was a difficult evening for the Garrycastle players but an inexperienced team gave their best.

Garrycastle: Shane McHenry, Adam Keena, Gary Mullery, Ben Kennedy, Enda Keena, Bill Kelly, Jason Turley, Ciaran O’Neill, Eric Kearney, Peadar Mulvihill, Robbie Shine, Brian McCormack, Paul O'Donovan, Alan Daly, Paul Mulvihill.

Subs used: Conor Macken, Conor Duignan, Richie Byrne, Eoin Duignan, Kevin McCormack.

Senior Football Championship - Group 1 [12 August 2017]

GARRYCASTLE 1-10, ST. LOMANS 4-12

Garrycastle suffered their second defeat in the league part of this years Senior Championship at the hands of St. Lomans in Rosemount on Saturday evening. St. Lomans started the brighter, and had a point on the board after just one minute. The Mullingar side dominated the opening exchanges, and nearly had an opening goal when John Heslin drove straight in on goal, but pulled his shot wide. It took Garrycastle until the seventh minute to open their account with a well worked move finished off for a point by Doron Harte. Garrycastle were struggling with the pace and movement of the St. Lomans forwards and St. Lomans regained the lead with points from a close-in free, and a second from open play. From the second of those points, the Garrycastle kickout was turned over, and a quick pass found John Heslin in space and he duly found the net.

In response, Garrycastle upped their game, and a surging run by James Dolan resulted in a free, converted by Alex Gardiner to narrow the deficit. A further pointed free by Conor Cosgrove further reduced the gap, but in an omen of what was to come, St. Lomans scored a point when a goal looked the more likely outcome. As the game entered the last 10 minutes of the first half, Garrycastle had their best spell of the game, with points from Conor (a free), and two from Michael Monahan, to bring the deficit back to two points. A free just on half-time to bring the deficit down to one point was unfortunately missed.

At half-time, Garrycastle were still well in the game, trailing by two points, on a scoreline of 0-6 to 1-5.

The second half started well, with a pointed free by Conor reducing the deficit to a single score. Both teams then traded points, the Garrycastle score coming from Justin Barrett after a nice flowing move. However, St. Lomans were now dominating the play, and dragging the Garrycastle defence all around the field. Their approach almost resulted in a goal, but the final shot was forced wide, although they did widen the gap with a point from the resulting 45-meter free.

Then, with almost 10 minutes of the second half gone, St. Loman's were awarded a penalty, which was converted by Heslin, to put six points between the teams. Garrycastle responded immediately, and a surging run from Mattie Guiheen resulted in a ’45, which was converted by Alex. However directly from the kickout, John Heslin took the mark in the centre of the field, quickly hand-passed to onrushing county colleague Paul Sharry, who ran unhindered towards the Garrycastle goal and finished to the net giving the Garrycastle ‘keeper no chance. A minute later St. Lomans added to their tally with a fine point when a goal was most certainly on.

Garrycastle were struggling now, and St. Lomans piled on the pressure when a perfect pass from one of their substitutes was finished to the net by Heslin. A point immediately afterwards opened the gap between the teams to 13 points. Garrycastle showed glimpses of what they are capable of, and a lovely flowing move, started by the Eoin Monahan, with nice interplay to Tom O’Halloran and Cathal Mannion, was expertly finished to the net by Alex. A further point from play by John Gaffey in a foray upfield from his full-back berth was bookended by two pointed frees from St. Lomans, The second half ended as had the first half with a Garrycastle free kicked wide.

The final score was Garrycastle 1-10, St. Lomans 4-12.

This was a disappointing display and result from a Garrycastle viewpoint. The team worked hard, but struggled with the speed, strength and movement of the Mullingar side. Further progress for Garrycastle in this years Senior Championship will now depend on results in the final two games, while on this showing, St. Lomans will be the team to beat in Westmeath this year.

Team:

Sean Brennan, Mark McCallon, John Gaffey (0-1), Gary McCallon, Neal Rhattigan, Doron Harte (0-1), James Dolan, Matthew Guiheen, Johnathan McGuire, Justin Barrett (0-1), Michael Monahan (0-2, 1f), Conor Cosgrove (0-4, 4f), Cathal Mannion, Alex Gardiner (1-1, 1f), Paul Gunning.

Subs:

Tom O’Halloran for Paul Gunning (39 mins), Damien Rushe for Conor Cosgrove (50 mins), Eoin Monahan for Neal Rhattigan (53 mins), Anthony Larkin for Michael Monahan (56 mins).

Senior Football Championship - Group 1 [29 July 2017]

GARRYCASTLE 0-12 ATHLONE 1-09

Two late points by Athlone saw them grab a point from Garrycastle when it was beginning to look like the points was theirs. This was a game that the Garrycastle boys started well and looked the better team early on. However after Athlone scored their goal to take the lead halfway through the half Garrycastle began to struggle against a rejuvenated Athlone side. The halftime score was 1-4 to 0-5. Alex Gardiner (3), Tom O’Halloran (1) and Conor Cosgrave(1) got the Garrycastle points. Late in the half James Dolan latched onto a ball and his acceleration left him in a one to with the Athlone keeper, however his low shot was well saved by the keeper. A number of Athlone’s early scores came from balls that went astray when being cleared by the defence.

At the start of the second half Athlone had three early wides and it was Garrycastle through Jonathan Maguire who got the first score of the half, a fisted point. Further points from Alex Gardiner and Conor Cosgrave gave Garrycastle the lead. Points were swapped with never more than one between them until late in normal time when Garrycastle opened a two point lead. However they were unable to close out the game allowing Athlone in for two points to level the game. Garrycastle ‘s points came from Conor Cosgrave (2), Alex Gardiner (3) and Mathew Guiheen (1). Late in the game Garrycastle goal keeper was called on to make a smart save when an Athlone player bore down on goal. Garrycastle will regret not being able to close out the game while they’ll be relieved that Athlone players left their shooting boots at home. The Garrycastle midfield found it difficult to gain possession from their own kickouts for periods in the latter part of the game. A feature of the game was that the best players on view were two of the older brigade - John Gaffey for Garrycastle and Michael Greene for Athlone.

GARRYCASTLE: Sean Brennan, Anthony Larkin, John Gaffey, Gary McCallon, Neil Rhattigan, Mark McCallon, Mathew Guiheen (0-1), Justin Barrett, James Dolan, Jonathan Maguire (0-1), Conor Cosgrave (0-3), Doran Harte, Tom O’Halloran (0-1), James Sheeran, Alex Gardiner (0-6).

Subs: Jack Donoghue for Anthony Larkin; Cathal Mannion for Tom O’Halloran; Gavin Ward for Neil Rhattigan; Michael Monaghan for Jonathan Maguire.

Junior Championship - Group 3 [27 July 2017]

GARRYCASTLE 0-13, TYRELLSPASS 1-05

Garrycastle’s junior team made it two wins from two starts in this years Junior Championship with a hard earned win against the home team in Tyrellspass on Thursday evening.

The Garrycastle team started well, and took the lead with a point from Paul Mulvihill. The lead was doubled shortly afterwards by Gavin Ward after some very good approach play, building from the middle of the field. A pointed free by Robbie Shine increased the lead, and with Garrycastle in full control of the middle of the field, two further points from Paul, saw them lead by 5 points after the first 10 minutes. Tyrellspass finally opened their account with a pointed free, before some off-the-ball pushing and shoving resulted in yellow cards for Bill Kelly and his marker. The home side now hit a purple patch, outscoring Garrycastle by three points to one over the next 10 minutes, including one sideline kick for a point that would have graced any match. A good save by Michael Fagan in the Garrycastle goal kept the home team at bay, and the final score of the half was a point from Paul O’Donovan after receiving a clever quick free from Robbie.

The half-time score was 0-7 to 0-4 in favour of Garrycastle.

Garrycastle started the brighter in the second half, and quickly had a point on the board from Ciaran O’Neill. Tyrellspass responded in kind, and then the game entered a lull, with both teams guilty of some very poor passing and kicking. A pointed free from Robbie edged Garrycastle further in front, but nether team was really making use of their possession at this stage. Then, with 10 minutes of normal time left, Tyrellspass struck for a goal, with a run straight through the Garrycastle defence giving the goalkeeper no chance. With the margin between the teams down to the minimum, Ciaran stepped up to fire a point after a well worked free, and as the game wound down, it was Garrycastle who finished the stronger with two pointed frees from Robbie, and a great point from play by Paul Mulvihill to leave Garrycastle ahead by 5 at the finish. Indeed the margin could have been even greater, as Paul O’Donovan found himself in on goal but his powerful shot was beaten away by the keeper, and the follow-up was scrambled wide.

Overall, a good result, but surely some room for further improvement before the next round.

Team:

Michael Fagan, Sean Carey, Mark Curley, Ben Kennedy, Garry Mullery, Karl Henson, Bill Kelly, Ciaran O’Neill (0-2), Gavin Ward (0-1), Enda Keena, Bryan McCormack, Peadar Mulvihill, Paul Mulvihill (0-4), Robbie Shine (0-5, 5f), Paul O’Donovan (0-1).

Subs: Conor Duignan for Bryan McCormack (37 mins), Colm Lynch for Bill Kelly (52 mins), Stephen McGuire for Peadar Mulvihill (59 mins), Adam Keena for Paul O’Donovan (59 mins).

Senior Football Championship [23 July 2017]

Garrycastle 1-11 Tyrellspass 2-9

This first round game played in sunny Moate on Sunday evening last saw Garrycastle lose out to Tyrellspass in a game full of incident. It was one of those evenings when the Garrycastle players couldn’t put the ball between the posts shooting an incredible 17 wides. Fielding without the the suspended Jack Donoghue and the injured Dessie Dolan and Mark McCallon, this was always going to be a tough assignment for Garrycastle.

Playing with the wind in the first half they started brightly with points from Alex Gardiner and Tom O’Halloran before the quick thinking James Dolan found James Sheeran with a quick line ball and the latter buried it in the top corner of the net. Tom O’Halloran added another point before the first of the controversial incidents occurred. With Tyrellspass building up a move a Garrycastle player was felled illegally off the ball resulting in an extra man situation for Tyrellspass who put the ball in the net. After talking with the linesman and umpires the referee took no action and allowed the goal to stand. A Jonathan Maguire point from distance preceeded three Tyrellspass points on the trot. Further points from Mathew Guiheen, Conor Cosgrave, and James Sheeran to one for Tyrellspass left the halftime score at 1-7 to 1-4 to Garrycastle. A three point lead didn’t reflect Garrycastle dominance, with 10 other shots going wide.

At the start of the second half the wides continued for Garrycastle before Michael Monaghan, added a point. Three Tyrellspass points left only one in it before Alex Gardiner added another. A breakaway Tyrellspass attack saw them gaining an extra man situation and finishing to the net to take the lead for the first time. Jonathan Maguire added a point to level matters half way through the half. Shortly afterwards a Tyrellspass player got a second yellow for a foul on Jonathan. With a man extra Garrycastle piled on the pressure but found the packed Tyrellspass defense difficult to breach. Eventually Gary McCallon found the range to re-take the lead. Tyrellspass levelled again but Garrycastle kept adding to their wides tally. A great through pass to Alex Gardiner was saved by the Tyrellspass keeper when a goal looked on. With seven minutes to go Doran Harte got a black card. On a rare counter attack Tyrellspass took the lead from a free which had been brought forward for dissent. Pressure from Garrycastle yielded a 13 metre free to the right of the goals which was also missed. With Garrycastle camped in the Tyrellspass half the final whistle sounded leaving the Garrycastle lads wondering how they failed to win this match. The Tyrellspass kick out strategy in the second half worked a treat for them when quick kickouts to the left caught out the Garrycastle lads time and time again. While it was a difficult defeat to take the players must learn from it and with a little more composure they would surely have won this game. The next game is versus Athlone in Tang next Saturday evening at 7.30pm.

Garrycastle: Sean Brennan, Anthony Larkin, John Gaffey, Gary McCallon, Neil Rhattigan, Doran Harte, Mathew Guiheen, Justin Barrett, James Dolan, Jonathan Maguire, Conor Cosgrave, Michael Monaghan, Tom O’Halloran, James Sheeran, Alex Gardiner.

Subs Damien Rushe for Jonathan Maguire; Cathal Mannion for Doran Harte (Black Card)? Paul Gunning for Conor Cosgrave.

Junior Championship - Group 3 [20 July 2017]

ROSEMOUNT 0-07 GARRYCASTLE 5-15

Our junior team got their championship campaign off to a winning start in a showery Rosemount on Thursday evening last. Starting the better Garrycastle scored three points before Rosemount registered their first score after ten minutes. Then the home side had a period of dominance adding three more points and taking the lead. Still trailing by a point Ciaran O’Neill started the best move of the match out in midfield and after a series of passes the same player finished the ball to the net to give Garrycastle the lead. A feature of the latter stages of the first half was the number of scores the Garrycastle forwards missed. Their three point (1-5 to 0-5) lead didn’t reflect their superiority.

However all was to change early in the second half, with the rain bucketing down Garrycastle took over and quickly put the game out of Rosemount’s reach. After five minutes and three points added to their tally, the goal feast started with one from Robbie Shine and two from Paul Mulvihill to leave the score 4-8 to 0-6. In a rare attack Rosemount were awarded a penalty which was expertly saved in the Garrycastle goal by Michael Fagan. Another six points were added before Ciaran O’Neill added his second goal. This was a good performance by Garrycastle but there will be tougher challenges ahead. The next game is versus Tyrellspass in Tyrellspass on this Thursday (July 27th) at 7.30pm.

Garrycastle: Michael Fagan, Sean Carey (0-1), Mark Curley, Gary Mullery, Gavin Ward, Anthony Larkin(0-1), Enda Keena, Damien Rushe (0-1), Ciaran O’Neill (2-2), Paul Gunning, Brian McCormack, Paul O'Donovan (0-1), Paul Mulvihill (2-1), Robbie Shine (1-2), Cathal Mannion (0-3).

Subs: Peadar Mulvihill for Brian McCormack; Conor Duignan (0-2) for Paul O’Donovan; Colm Lynch for Damien Rushe; Stephen Maguire for Paul Gunning; Unused subs: Conor Macken, Adam Keena, Ben Kennedy, Eoin Duignan, Kevin McCormack, Jason Turley, Richie Byrne, Ross Mulvihill.

ACL (Div 1) Final [2 July 2017]

Garrycastle 2-8 St Lomans Mullingar 1-14

The final of Division 1 of the ACFL was played on Sunday last in Cusack Park when Garrycastle lost out by 3 points to St Lomans in a well contested game. Both teams were missing their players on the county team (James Dolan and Mark McCallon for Garrycastle and John Heslin and Paul Sharry for St Lomans). In addition Garrycastle were also missing Sean Brennan, Anthony Larkin, Conor Cosgrove. With a strong wind favouring St Lomans in the first half Garrycastle found themselves playing catch up during the half. St Lomans’ attack were finding it easy to pick off scores on a loose Garrycastle defence. To add to Garrycastle ‘s difficulties their centre forward Dessie Dolan had to go off injured after 20 minutes. With the scores at eight points to three Garrycastle created two good goal opportunities, the first from Tom O’Halloran just missed the target and the second was punched to the net by the same player after a pass from James Sheeran. After 25 minutes a good shot on the Garrycastle goal was saved on the double by Mark Keenan. St Lomans added 2 points to Garrycastle ‘s one before halftime to leave the score at 0-10 to 1-4.

The early stages of the second half were dominated by cards and penalties. A quick St Lomans kickout was intercepted by Tom O’Halloran who was pulled down resulting in a black card for the defender. The resultant free was missed. At the other end Alan Fox got a black card for a foul on a Lomans forward which resulted in a penalty which was converted. Within a minute Garrycastle had the ball in the Lomans net when Tom O’Halloran converted a penalty which he had won himself. This left the score at 1-12 to 2-5 in favour of Lomans. During the remaining twenty five minutes there were only five points scored, three to Garrycastle and two to Lomans. Garrycastle ‘s last four points were scored by Alex Gardiner which were frees or 45s struck expertly off the ground. With two minutes remaining and two points between the sides James Sheeran won a good high ball and laid it off to Owen Monaghan, whose shot just missed the top corner of the net. A late Lomans point left 3 points between the sides at the final whistle.

There was a lot of rustiness in this performance by Garrycastle and improvement will be needed before the championship. All in all it was a useful game and an opportunity for the younger players to experience playing in Cusack Park.

GARRYCASTLE: Mark Keenan, Jack Donoghue, John Gaffey, Alan Fox, Mathew Guiheen, Doron Harte, Gary McCallon, Justin Barrett, Neil Rhattigan, Jonathan Maguire 0-1), Dessie Dolan (0-2), Tom O’Halloran (2-0), Michael Monaghan, James Sheeran, Alex Gardiner (0-5). Subs:- Cathal Mannion for Dessie Dolan; Owen Monaghan for Alan Fox; Damien Rushe for Michael Monaghan.

Feis Cup [23 June 2017]

GARRYCASTLE 4-10, ROSEMOUNT 3-18

Garrycastle ‘s first outing in this year’s Feis Cup was an unsuccessful one losing to Rosemount in Garrycastle on Friday evening last. The trend nowadays is to play defensive football, however this game was far from defensive with both sides scoring at will during different periods of the game.

Playing with the wind in the first half Rosemount dominated the early exchanges and led a depleted Garrycastle outfit by 1-4 to a point when Michael Monaghan got the first of his three goals from the penalty spot after Damien Rushe was fouled. Michael Monaghan added another goal after receiving a pass from James Sheeran which levelled the scores at 1-6 to 2-3 after 21 minutes. Rosemount added another goal and two points before halftime to Garrycastle’s single point leaving the score 2-8 to 2-4 at the break.

Garrycastle continued their lethargic performance after the break conceding a third goal after a Rosemount player soloed through from midfield without a hand being laid on him. Michael Monaghan added his third goal before Rosemount added more points to leave the score at 3-13 to 3-4. A fourth Garrycastle goal was finished to the net by James Sheeran after being set up by Michael Monaghan.

A period of Garrycastle dominance followed during which they reduced the lead to two points. However there was a final kick left in Rosemount adding three late points. This was an entertaining game with goal chances which were not converted as well as balls off the woodwork, however it’s not a game that defences will look back on with pride.

Team: Mark Keenan, Anthony Larkin (0-1), John Gaffey , Alan Fox, Colm Lynch, Gary McCallon , Gary Mullery, Justin Barrett, Neil Rhattigan, Damien Rushe, Dessie Dolan 0-4), Doran Harte, Michael Monaghan (3-3), James Sheeran (1-0), Jack Donoghue (0-1).

Subs Brian McCormack (0-1) for Colm Lynch, Michael Fagan for Mark Keenan.

ACL (Div 1) [2 June 2017]

Garrycastle 3-13 Athlone 0-9

Three first half goals virtually decided this final round league game of the season in favour of Garrycastle. Played on a perfect evening for football in Garrycastle, Athlone started the stronger with an early point before James Sheeran fisted the ball to the net, after a high ball by Cathal Mannion, for the first of Garrycastle ‘s goals. Athlone’s tactic of crowding the midfield was succeeding in stifling many of Garrycastle early attacks. The next stage of the game saw Garrycastle outscore Athlone by 4 points to 2, Garrycastle ‘s points all coming from frees by Conor Cosgrove (3) and Dessie Dolan (1). A good Garrycastle move ended with Tom O’Halloran beating the Athlone goalie with an angled shot. Another high ball troubled the Athlone defence resulting in Conor Cosgrove scrambling the ball to the net. A good Eoin Monaghan point finished the scoring leaving the halftime score 3-6 to 0-4.

On the resumption Garrycastle continued their dominance with a Cathal Mannion point. John Gaffey added another after a rare sally up the field. Gary McCallon got the first of his two points before Eoin Monaghan, Dessie Dolan, Mathew Guiheen and Gary McCallon added points for the home side. Athlone added 5 points to their tally. Mark Keenan brought off an excellent save on the only occasion that Athlone breached the Garrycastle defence. The defence in general was solid with John Gaffey outstanding and Gary McCallon adding an attacking dimension. The midfield more than held their own and in attack the high ball created difficulty for the Athlone defence. This result leaves Garrycastle in the league final against St Lomans.

GARRYCASTLE:- Mark Keenan, Gary McCallon (0-3), John Gaffey (0-1), Anthony Larkin, Neil Rhattigan, Doran Harte, Mathew Guiheen (0-1), Justin Barrett, Jonathan Maguire, Eoin Monaghan (0-2), Dessie Dolan (0-2, 0-1f), Tom O’Halloran (1-0), Conor Cosgrove (1-3, 0-3f), James Sheeran (1-0), Cathal Mannion (0-1).

Subs Michael Monaghan for Jonathan Maguire; Frank Farrell for Tom O’Halloran; Gary Mullery for Neil Rhattigan; Enda Keena for Dessie Dolan' Colm Lynch for Gary McCallon.

ACL Division 5 [28 May 2017]

GARRYCASTLE 1-08 MULLINGAR SHAMROCKS 2-17

This rescheduled game saw Mullingar Shamrocks run out easy winners in the end over a very depleted Garrycastle team. Mullingar got off to a good start scoring four points before Brian McCormack scored a free to get Garrycastle on the board. Mullingar led by 1-7 to 0-2 when Garrycastle began to get into the game outscoring Mullingar by 3 points to one leaving the halftime score at 1-8 to 0-5. A burst of scoring by Garrycastle in the early stages of the second half reduced the lead to 2 points. Garrycastle ‘s goal came when Adam Kennedy, making his return to Gaelic action, burst through and when fouled the quick thinking Kennedy took the free quick finding the top corner of the net. With the score at 1-10 to 1-8 for Mullingar the Garrycastle lads began to run out of legs with Mullingar adding a further 7 points before another Adam Kennedy run resulted in a penalty which Paul Mulvihill scored. A Mullingar goal the in the final seconds finished the scoring. Sean Carey and Gary Mullery did best in defence along with Adam Kennedy whose drives forward were very effective. James Sheeran and Enda Keena, worked hard at midfield. Peadar Mulvihill, Paul Mulvihill and Brian McCormack did best in the forwards.

GARRYCASTLE; Mike Fagan, Richie Byrne, Sean Carey, Mark Denby, Adam Kennedy, Gary Mullery, Conor Macken, James Sheeran, Enda Keena, Peadar Mulvihill, Bryan McCormack, Paul Mulvihill, Kevin McCormack, Frank Doolan, Eoin Duignan.

ACL Division 1 [27 May 2017]

ST. MARYS ROCHFORTBRIDGE 0-07 GARRYCASTLE 2-10

Garrycastle stay top of the table with one game left and are guaranteed a place in this years league final. After a mixed performance this evening with some good fielding by our midfielders and some great scores by our forwards, we still seem to over use the ball and lose it in the tackle, where we lost a lot of possession and this put us under pressure in the early stages of the match. It was a good run out for our players against a young and fit St Marys team fighting to stay in the top Division. Garrycastle lost a player on a double yellow after 15 minutes which let’s say was very harsh. However the team pulled together to grind out this result with some of our experienced players taking control. Our final group game is against our neighbours Athlone this Friday evening in Garrycastle at 7.30pm. Let's come out and support the lads.

GARRYCASTLE: Mark Keenan, Anthony Larkin, John Gaffey, Enda Kenna, Mathew Guiheen, Doran Harte, Gary McCallon, Justin Barrett, Johnny McGuire (0-1), Cathal Mannion (0-1), Dessie Dolan(0-4), Eoin Monaghan, Conor Cosgrave(0-4), James Sheeran(1-0), Tom O’Halloran (1-0).

Subs used: Michael Monaghan for Cathal Mannion; Seanie Donaghue for James Sheeran; Gary Mullery for Justin Barrett (injured); Neil Rattigan for Enda Kenna.

ACL Division 3 [24 May 2017]

GARRYCASTLE 4-10 KILBEGGAN SHAMROCKS 4-06

Garrycastle added two valuable points to their tally last week defeating Kilbeggan Shamrocks. This was a game that Garrycastle threatened to build up a sizeable lead but were pegged back by Kilbeggan goals each time. After a bright start with points from Robbie Fox, Robbie Shine and Cathal Mannion as well as a goal from Tom O’Halloran, got and scored the first of their penalties. A Cathal Mannion point was answered by a Kilbeggan point before Kilbeggan got their second successful penalty leaving the scores tied. Kilbeggan took the lead with a point before Tom O’Halloran got his second goal and a Jonathan Maguire point left the halftime score at 2-5 to 2-2 in favour of Garrycastle. An early second half goal from Paul Mulvihill and a Tom O’Halloran point built up a seven point lead when Kilbeggan scored their third goal. A Robbie Shine goal restored the seven point lead but this was shortlived as Kilbeggan replied with a goal almost straight away. Two Cathal Mannion points and one each from Robbie Shine and Tom O’Halloran completed Garrycastle ‘s scoring giving them a six point lead but two late points from Kilbeggan reduced the margin to four.

Enda Keena was the stand out player in defence, Jonathan Maguire, in midfield and up front Cathal Mannion and Tom O’Halloran were excellent.

GARRYCASTLE: Mark Keenan, Frank Farrell, Anthony Larkin, Enda Keena, Colm Lynch, Ciaran O’Neill, Gary Mullery, Jonathan Maguire, Neil Rhattigan, Brian McCormack, Robbie Fox, Cathal Mannion, Tom O’Halloran, Robbie Shine, Paul Mulvihill.

Subs Alan Fox for Robbie Fox; Sean Carey for Colm Lynch.

ACL (Division 5) [20 May 2017]

Ballymore 1-12 Garrycastle 0-9

The Garrycastle Div 5 team travelled to Ballymore on Sat evening last and despite hours of torrential rain the home pitch was in excellent condition. Part time work , exams and injuries left us with a total of 15 players and full credit to them for ensuring that we fulfilled the fixture. Garrycastle started brightly and had the first two points on the board in a matter of minutes but a combination of wides from kickable positions , poor passing and some lovely long range points by Ballymore left Garrycastle trailing by 5 points at half time.

Full credit to the Garrycastle players, some of whom were playing in positions not best suited to them , they battled to the end and three of the 45s awarded to Garrycastle were as a result of last ditch defending by Ballymore to prevent certain goals. Sean Gunning and Eric Mc Cormack made a welcome return to the team and acquitted themselves well.

GARRYCASTLE: Mike Fagan, Richie Byrne, Mark Denby, Gary Mullery, Sean Carey, Sean Gunning, Adam Keena, Emmet Ward, Cathal Mannion, Paul Mulvihill, Bryan McCormack, Darragh McCormack, Eric McCormack, Enda Keena, Frank Doolan.

ACL Division 1 [19 May 2017]

GARRYCASTLE 2-07 TYRELLSPASS 1-16

Garrycastle suffered their first defeat of the year in the ACFL division 1 on Friday evening last. They started the game very well with a goal from Tom O’Halloran following good work by Owen Monaghan. Another move almost immediately resulted in Tom O’Halloran flicking the ball over the bar, a ball which could just as easily gone under the bar. Dessie Dolan added another point from play after 7 minutes. But this was as good as it got for Garrycastle . Tyrellspass soon showed that they meant business bringing an intensity to the game that Garrycastle never matched. Tyrellspass gradually worked their way back into the game scoring four points to one from Dessie Dolan for Garrycastle . They then added a goal to their tally when they worked the ball through the middle before finishing to the net leaving the score at 1-4 to 1-3 in favour of tp. Four more tp points were responded by Garrycastle with 2 points from Dessie Dolan and James Sheeran leaving the half time score at 1-8 to 1-5. A feature of the first half was the number of goal chances that Garrycastle created but missed.

On the resumption Justin Barrett had the ball in the tp net within a minute to level the game. This came after a free from Dessie Dolan fell short and Justin got his fist to it first to score. This score didn’t quell the tp onslaught and they pushed on with two points. Two points from frees by Conor Cosgrave kept Garrycastle in touch but the last quarter was tp’s adding five points without reply. This was a very flat display by Garrycastle, their worst of the season. Their cause was not helped by an injury to Jack Donohoe early in the second half forcing him to retire. Both teams were short their county players but the greater appetite and fitness of the tp players made the difference.

GARRYCASTLE: Mark Keenan, Gary McCallon, James Dolan, Anthony Larkin, Neil Rhattigan, John Gaffey, Mathew Guiheen, Justin Barrett, James Sheeran, Cathal Mannion, Dessie Dolan, Doran Harte, Conor Cosgrave, Owen Monaghan, Tom O’Halloran.

Subs Frank Farrell for Jack Donoghue, Sean O’Donoghue for Gary McCallon.

ACL (Div 3) [14 May 2017]

Garrycastle 1-11 Ballinagore 1-13

The Division 3 team travelled on Sunday morning to play Ballinagore’s first team.

Numbers were low again due to injuries and work commitments. With most of the players having played the evening before for the Division 5 team it was going to be a hard task to get a result. Garrycastle were 9 points to 3 up after 20 minutes with some fine points from Paul O’Donavan and midfielders Johnny McGuire and Neil Rattigan. Garrycastle were on top in most positions. The team were then hit hard with injuries losing Sean Carey, Johnny McGuire and Paul Gunning who had to move into full forward and play with his injury as there were no subs to bring on. These injuries disrupted the team who began to struggle and lose the initiative. Gradually Ballinagore fought their way back into the game and gained the upperhand. To their credit the Garrycastle players never gave up the fight and just fell short in the end.

Garrycastle: Mark Keenan, Sean Carey, Anthony Larkin, Ben Kennedy, Enda Keena, Emmet Ward, Garry Mullery, Johnny McGuire (0-1), Neil Rattigan (0-1), Paul Gunning (0-1), Seanie O'Donaghue, Brian McCormack (0-1), Paul Dunning (0-3), Cathal Mannion (1-3), Mark Denby.

Subs Richie Byrne for Sean Carey; Padraig Cosgrove (0-1) for Johnny McGuire.

ACL Division 3 [6 May 2017]

MOATE ALL-WHITES 2-14, GARRYCASTLE 1-06

This division 3 game, played in Moate, was a game too far for the Garrycastle players with five having to play again after playing for the division 1 team on the evening before. Moate started the game strongly putting four points on the board before Garrycastle scored. With Jonathan Maguire and Neil Rhattigan getting a grip at midfield Garrycastle worked their way back into the game and were rewarded with three pointed frees by Brian McCormack to Moate’s one. When the score was six points to three for Moate a defensive error let Moate in for a goal. Almost straight away an excellent Garrycastle move started by James Sheeran was finished to the net by the same player. A Paul O'Donovan, point competed Garrycastle ‘s scoring in the first half which left the halftime score at 1-4 to 1-8.

The first two points of the second half were shared by the teams after which Garrycastle had a goal disallowed for an infringement. This Garrycastle point was scored by Cathal Mannion. With Garrycastle players running out of steam Moate gradually added to their tally and ran out comfortable winners.

GARRYCASTLE: Mark Keenan, Frank Farrell, Emmett Ward, Anthony Larkin, Sean Carey, Gary Mullery, Colm Lynch, Jonathan McGuire, Neil Rhattigan, Enda Keena, Brian McCormack, Cathal Mannion, Paul O’Donovan, James Sheeran, Conor Duignan.

Subs Paul Mulvihill for Conor Duignan; Jason Turley for Neil Rhattigan; Richie Byrne, Mark Denby for Brian McCormack; Michael Fagan.

All County League (Div 1) [5 May 2017]

Garrycastle 2-20 St Lomans 0-6

The Garrycastle senior team recorded a big win against St Lomans on Friday evening last in Garrycastle. Both teams were missing their county players and also some others. Garrycastle played very well in the first half and led by 1-13 to 0-1 at halftime, the goal coming from James Sheeran. Dessie Dolan was in superb form scoring points from all angles with left and right.

The scoring rate slowed in the second half when another 1-7 was added, the goal coming from Tom O’Halloran. Sean Brennan’s kickouts were pinpoint, Doran Harte marshalled the defence to good effect, Mathew Guiheen revelled in the half back position scoring four points, Justin Barrett was very prominent in midfield and Tom O’Halloran did very well in a free role.

GARRYCASTLE: Sean Brennan, Anthony Larkin, John Gaffey, Gary McCallon, Neil Rhattigan, Doran Harte, Matthew Guiheen, Jonathan Maguire, Justin Barrett, Owen Monaghan, Dessie Dolan, Cathal Mannion, Tom O’Halloran, James Sheeran, Alex Gardiner.

Subs Seanie O’Donoghue for Jonathan Maguire; Emmett Ward for Neil Rhattigan; Enda Keena for Cathal Mannion; Gary Mullery for Mathew Guiheen.

ACL (Div 5) [28 April 2017]

Rosemount 0-21, Garrycastle 0-05

The Garrycastle Div 5 squad travelled to Rosemount for this re-fixed game on Friday evening last. Originally fixed for the previous week, Rosemount requested a postponement because of a difficulty fielding and ironically this week two weddings, injuries and Bank Holiday weekend left Garrycastle short on numbers while the Rosemount 2nd team had access to a full squad which they used to great effect. Playing games is what this squad is all about and despite the easy win for Rosemount there were some positives to be taken from a Garrycastle perspective.

Despite travelling without Paul Mulvihill, Emmet Ward, Bryan McCormack, Robbie Shine, Robbie Fox, Eric Kearney, Philip Monaghan and Gavin Ward this Garrycastle 3rd team still togged 17 players on the night. The loss of Paul Gunning through injury late in the first half was a blow for Garrycastle but this young team never gave up and a disallowed goal in the final few minutes of the match was an indicator of the battling qualities of this side.

Colm Lynch and Adam Keena continue to improve with each game and gave a great display not only defensively but also in their willingness to push forward in support of the play.

Michael Fagan in goal was safe and confident under the high dropping ball, his kick outs were strong and accurate and his 5 or 6 saves one on one with Rosemount forwards were top class at any level.

This was one of the best displays by a goalkeeper in the Castle colours for many a day.

Conor Duignan and Cathal Mannion battled hard at midfield while Enda Keena ran himself into the ground in his efforts to link the midfield and forward plays.

GARRYCASTLE: Michael Fagan, Richie Byrne, Sean Carey, Ben Kennedy, Jason Turley, Colm Lynch, Adam Keena, Cathal Mannion, Conor Duignan, Enda Keena, Paul Gunning, Paul O'Donovan, Mark Denby, Franko Doolin, Darragh McCormack, Eoin Duignan, Peadar Mulvihill.

ACL Division 3 [23 April 2017]

THE DOWNS 2-12 GARRYCASTLE 1-10

With a number of players playing their second game in the day this was a big ask for the division 3 team. However the team turned out and gave it their best. An early goal by James Sheeran after taking a pass from Colm Lynch was replied to by 2 goals and a point for the Downs. Points from Paul O'Donovan (2), Cathal Mannion and Brian McCormack were replied to by five Downs points. The halftime score was 2-6 to 1-4 in favour of the Downs. Twelve second half points were shared by the teams and the Garrycastle scorers were Jonathan Maguire, Brian McCormack (2), Cathal Mannion (2) and James Sheeran.

GARRYCASTLE: Michael Fagan, Frank Farrell, Anthony Larkin, Sean Carey, Colm Lynch , Emmett Ward, Gary Mullery, Jonathan McGuire, Neil Rhattigan, Paul O’Donovan, Cathal Mannion , Jason Turley, Mark Denby, James Sheeran, Brian McCormack.

Subs Richie Byrne, Enda Keena.

ACL (Div 1) [23 April 2017]

Garrycastle 5-12 Coralstown Kinnegad 0-4

The division 1 team had a comprehensive win over Coralstown Kinnegad by 5-12 to 0-4 on Sunday morning last. From the start Garrycastle gained the upper hand with early point from Alex Gardiner being followed by a well taken Conor Cosgrave goal. A Michael Monaghan point preceded a goal from Tom O’Halloran who took on the chance when a point looked the more likely outcome. Immaculate free taking by Alex Gardiner added three further points and one by James Sheeran brought the halftime score to 2-7 to 0-2. The black card rule was applied to Neil Rhattigan for a foul just before halftime. On the resumption Garrycastle continued their dominance with points from Eoin and Michael Monaghan and Gary McCallon. A brilliant catch by Conor Cosgrave resulted in a free which he scored himself. An early ball fed into Alex Gardiner resulted in a one to one situation which resulted in Alex being hand tripped in the penalty area. Conor Cosgrave expertly put away the penalty. A Coralstown Kinnegad player was red carded midway through the half. Late goals by Alex Gardiner and Michael Monaghan and points from the same players completed the scoring.

GARRYCASTLE: Sean Brennan, Gary McCallon, Jack Donoghue, Anthony Larkin, John Gaffey, Mark McCallon, Neil Rhattigan, Johnny McGuire, Doran Harte, Owen Monaghan, Conor Cosgrave, Michael Monaghan, Tom O’Halloran, James Sheeran, Alex Gardiner.

Sub Emmett Ward for Neil Rhattigan; Frank Farrell for Mark McCallon; Gary Mullery for John Gaffey; Cathal Mannion for Tom O’Halloran.

ACL (Div 5) [15 April 2017]

MOATE AW 1-16 GARRYCASTLE 0-11

A very young Garrycastle Div 5 side went down to a more experienced and physical Moate side in Garrycastle on Easter Saturday evening. Playing against a strong breeze in the first half , Garrycastle missed a few early chances in front of goal and were made to pay for it as the more experienced Moate men picked off points on most of their attacks. Launching long wind assisted high balls into a two man full forward line Moate scored an unanswered 1-5 in one ten minute spell. Turning around at half time on a score line of 1-13 to 0-3 it was looking like a total rout was on the cards but the young Garrycastle lads had other ideas and took the game to their opponents outscoring them in the second half by 8 points to three Moate frees finishing on a scoreline of Moate 1-16 to Garrycastle's 11 points. Some pretty hefty challenges from a tiring Moate side prevented further scoring but full praise must be given to the Garrycastle lads who with the bare 15 ran themselves into the ground against an experienced side with a full compliment of subs.

It is difficult enough to field a third adult side but having three teams fielding on the same Bank Holiday weekend does not lend itself to the idea of providing football for all and the Club is indebted to all the players involved, some of whom played two and three games on a weekend when their peers were away enjoying other pursuits.

GARRYCASTLE; Michael Fagan, Adam Keena, Sean Carey, Mark Denby, Richie Byrne, Colm Lynch, Conor Macken, Paul Gunning, Enda Keena, Conor Duignan, Bryan McCormack, Paul Mulvihill, Eoin Duignan, Cathal Mannion, Darragh McCormack.

All County League (Div 1) [14 April 2017]

Garrycastle 3-10 Tang 1-6

The Division 1 team recorded their 4th league win of the season defeating Tang in Garrycastle on Friday of last week. Exchanges were close in the early stages and it was 12 minutes before the first score arrived, a point to Tang which was replied to a minute later by a Conor Cosgrave point. Tang regained the lead a minute later before Conor Cosgrave fisted the ball to the net after being set up by Gary McCallon. Sean Brennan pulled of a very smart save in the Garrycastle goal after 20 minutes. Another Conor Cosgrave point was followed by a Jonathan McGuire point after intercepting a Tang Pass. First half scoring was completed with two Alex Gardiner points leaving the halftime score 1-5 to 0-2 in favour of the home team. Three quick Garrycastle points on the restart from Conor Cosgrave, Eoin Monaghan and Alex Gardiner (Free) were responded to by a Tang point. James Dolan got Garrycastle’s second goal after a very slick passing move. Michael Monaghan replaced Cathal Mannion before Tang scored their 4th point. Garrycastle’s third goal was another palmed effort by Alex Gardiner after 17 minutes. A Tang point was replied to by another Conor Cosgrave point. Tang pointed a free before they scored a well taken goal. Alex Gardiner completed the Garrycastle scoring with a point.

GARRYCASTLE: Sean Brennan, Gary McCallon, Mark McCallon, Anthony Larkin, James Dolan, John Gaffey, Neil Rhattigan, Justin Barrett, Jonny McGuire, Doran Harte, Eoin Monaghan, Cathal Mannion, Tom O’Halloran, Alex Gardiner, Conor Cosgrave.

Sub: Michael Monaghan for Cathal Mannion.

ACL Division 1 [25 March 2017]

ROSEMOUNT 2-12 GARRYCASTLE 5-14

Played in Rosemount on Saturday afternoon Garrycastle gained their third win of the league. This was a workman-like performance by a Garrycastle team who got the job done without being particularly impressive. Played on a very heavy pitch Rosemount had the better of the early exchanges and led by five points to two after 15 minutes, with the Garrycastle points coming from Des Dolan and Conor Cosgrave. Two goals in two minutes from Tom O’Halloran changed this game completely. Rosemount added one more point before halftime while another goal from Alex Gardiner and points from Alex Gardiner and a real class point by Dessie Dolan left the halftime score at 3-4 to 0-6 in favour of Garrycastle .

As in the first half Rosemount dominated in the early minutes of the second half scoring 1-2 before Garrycastle replied with a Conor Cosgrave point, another goal by Tom O’Halloran and a point by Alex Gardiner. During the latter stages Garrycastle added another goal by Michael Monaghan and points by Conor Cosgrave (2) Dessie Dolan and Alex Gardiner. A late Rosemount goal left the final score at 5-10 to 2-12. Mathew Guiheen who was having a fine game got his second yellow card with 10 minutes to go removing him from the action. The goals proved crucial in this game and the team performance was patchy leaving plenty of room to improve.

GARRYCASTLE: Mark Keenan, Gary McCallon, John Gaffey, Gavin Ward, Neil Rhattigan, Doran Harte, Mathew Guiheen, Justin Barrett, Eoin Monaghan, Michael Monaghan, Dessie Dolan, James Sheeran, Conor Cosgrave, Tom O’Halloran, Alex Gardiner.

Subs: Cathal Mannion for James Sheeran; Anthony Larkin for Eoin Monaghan; Frank Farrell for Neil Rhattigan.

ACL Division 3 [24 March 2017]

GARRYCASTLE 0-12 ST. LOMANS 1-14

Garrycastle lost out in this closely contested game played on Friday night last. Points from Paul Mulvihill, and Paul Gunning, gave Garrycastle an early lead. Lomans levelled it with two points before Garrycastle took the lead again with a point from a free by Cathal Mannion . This lead was short lived when lomans got a goal from a rebound after a good save by Michael Fagan. Two points from play by Paul Gunning and Colm Lynch levelled the score again. A spell of Lomans dominance resulted in them getting 4 points before Garrycastle replied with a Cathal Mannion free. Two more Lomans points were replied to by two points by James Sheeran to leave the halftime score 1-8 to 0-8 in favour of Lomans. There were two balls off the Garrycastle woodwork during the first half and at the other end the Garrycastle forwards had five wides in succession. The main feature of the first half was a real rallying point from halfback Colm Lynch who was playing his first adult game for the club.

In the second half Lomans added 2 points to their lead, replied to by a Cathal Mannion point from a free. Another Lomans point made the scoreline 1-11 to 0-9. Points from play by Cathal Mannion, Neil Rhattigan and Paul ODonovan and one from Lomans reduced the lead to three points. However the goal that Garrycastle needed wouldn’t come and two late points from Lomans completed the scoring.

GARRYCASTLE: Michael Fagan, Gary Mullery, Anthony Larkin, Frank Farrell, Colm Lynch, Gavin Ward, Enda Keena, James Sheeran, Emmett Ward, Neil Rhattigan, Cathal Mannion, Brian McCormack, Paul Gunning, Paul ODonovan, Paul Mulvihill. Subs: Gary Dolan and Conor Duignan for Brian McCormack and Paul Gunning; Jason Turley for Gary Dolan.

ACL Division 5 [12 March 2017]

GARRYCASTLE 1-04 CASTLEDALY 1-10

On a fine, but blustery afternoon in Garrycastle, the clubs third team came up short against Castledaly. Starting brightly, Garrycastle had the lions share of possession in the first quarter, but only had a single point, (a free from Bryan McCormack), to show for it. Instead in the swirling wind, they kicked a succession of wides and the game was levelled just on the quarter hour mark, when Castledaly opened their account. Almost immediately, Castledaly took the lead through a fortuitous goal, which was deflected for an own-goal past Michael Fagan in the Garrycastle goals. Castledaly then had a purple patch and knocked over a further 4 points before the break, while smothering any Garrycastle attempts at a comeback. The half-time score was 1-05 to 0-01 in favour of the visitors.

Garrycastle made a number of changes at halftime, with Alan Daly and Paul Gunning entering the fray to give some scoring options. However, Castledaly had the better of the opening period of the second half, with an early point, with Garrycastle responding with a point from Bryan McCormack, who reacted fastest when a Philip Monahan shot on goal was blocked. Just on the 45 minute mark, a foul on Eric Kearney saw Alan Daly step up to take and convert a penalty, and this was quickly followed by a further point from Bryan to reduce the gap between the teams to just three points. However, any hopes of a further comeback were dashed as Castledaly took control of the game in the middle third, and kicked a number of points to widen the gap. Indeed, except for a great save from Michael Fagan late on, the gap could have been wider. A final pointed free from Bryan closed the scoring for Garrycastle, with the visitors fully deserving of their win on a final scoreline of 1-10 to 1-04.

Team:

Michael Fagan, Brian Leahy, John Murphy, Mark Denby, Adam Keena, Sean Carey, Jason Turley, Eric Kearney, Noel Galvin, Conor Duignan, Philip Monahan, Bryan McCormack (0-4, 2f), Richie Byrne, Francis Doolin, Paul O'Donovan.

Subs: Ben Kennedy for Jason Turley (15 mins), Paul Mulvihill for Paul O'Donovan (25 mins), Alan Daly (1-0, penalty) for Richie Byrne (halftime), Paul Gunning for Francis Doolin (37 mins), Cathal Mannion for Philip Monahan (44 mins), Enda Keena for Eric Kearney (46 mins)

ACL Division 3 [12 March 2017]

GARRYCASTLE 1-10, KILLUCAN 0-06

Played in Garrycastle on Sunday morning there was a strong breeze favouring the home team in the first half. An early point from Paul Gunning, was followed by a point for Kilucan after 10 minutes. Two Tom O’Halloran points and one for Cathal Mannion gave the home team a 3 point advantage midway through the half. Kilucan got the edge at midfield for a period and were rewarded with 2 points. However the Garrycastle boys regained the initiative and points from Paul ODonovan, Paul Mulvihill and Tom O’Halloran gave Garrycastle a 4 point halftime lead. The third quarter was Garrycastle‘s best getting 3 points from Neil Rhattigan, Paul Gunning and Tom O’Halloran before Kilucan added to their total with a point. A good save from Mark Keenan was followed by a goal from Tom O’Halloran after a great pass by Brian McCormack. This effectively ended the game as a contest and Kilucan added two further points in the closing stages.

This was a good performance by the Garrycastle team with Anthony Larkin, Frank Farrell, Gavin Ward, Neil Rhattigan, Tom O’Halloran and Cathal Mannion particularly prominent.

Garrycastle: Mark Keenan, Gary Mullery, Anthony Larkin, Ben Kennedy, Frank Farrell, Gavin Ward, Enda Keena, Emmett Ward, Neil Rhattigan, Paul Gunning, Damien Rushe, Cathal Mannion, Paul Mulvihill, Paul ODonovan, Tom O’Halloran.

Subs Mark Curley for Paul O'Donovan, Brian McCormack for Paul Mulvihill, Sean Carey for Enda Keena.

ACL Division 1 [4 March 2017]

GARRYCASTLE 2-8 MULLINGAR SHAMROCKS 0-13

Garrycastle captured two valuable Division 1 League points on their visit to Springfield on Saturday last. Playing on a heavy pitch in adverse weather conditions, Garrycastle were first off the mark with a Conor Cosgrove point in the first minute. The home team equalised after 10 minutes, however Cathal Mannion restored the vistors’ lead with a point. Shamrocks then took control and hit three points without reply in a five minute spell midway through the first half. Garycastle had a few attacks which broke down but on the 28th minute, a great move involving Cathal Mannion and Tom O’Halloran was expertly finished to the net by Alex Gardiner to put Garrycastle 1-3 to 0-4 ahead at half-time.

The second half began well with a converted free by Conor Cosgrave but then Shamrocks had a purple patch and added four unanswered points to put the Mullingar outfit ahead 10 minutes into the second half.

Garrycastle then had a good move which found Tom O’Halloran rise to hand pass the ball to the net but his effort came back off the woodwork.

Two Dessie Dolan points, one from play followed by a free, settled the visitors as the game opened up midway through the second half and the lead oscillated between the teams. A great chance for Michael Monaghan who found himself clean through and one on one with the goalkeeper saw his goal effort hit the crossbar and go over for a point. Shortly afterwards, Eoin Monaghan found the net after a good move to put some daylight between the teams. The home team were not lying down and as the clock ticked down they sent a number of high balls toward the Garrycastle goal which troubled the defence and could have resulted in a goal but the defence held strong. When the final whistle was blown there was a sense of relief that Garrycastle had managed to secure an important victory albeit by the slimmest of margins.

This was a good workout for the Division 1 side and they will take consolation from the away win secured with position changes due to the absence of a number of first team regulars. There were some notable battling performances on the day in particular Doran Harte at full back and Cathal Mannion who caught the eye for his continuous endeavour in the half forward line.

GARRYCASTLE; Sean Brennan, Anthony Larkin, Doron Harte, Gavin Ward, Neale Rattigan, Justin Barrett, Enda Keena, James Sheeran, Eoin Monaghan (1-0), Michael Monaghan(0-2), Dessie Dolan (0-2, 1f), Cathal Mannion (0-1), Tom O'Halloran, Conor Cosgrove (0-3, 1f), Alex Gardiner (1-0).

SUBS. Emmet Ward for E. Keena (50 mins), Paul Gunning for M. Monaghan (56 mins). Not used Paul Mulvihill, Ben Kennedy.

ACL Division 5 [12 February 2017]

THE DOWNS 3-13 GARRYCASTLE 0-14

Garrycastle’s third team made the long trip to The Downs on a bitterly cold and windy Sunday afternoon for their opening round of this years ACL Division 5. Garrycastle played the first half with a little aid from a swirling wind, and were quickly off the mark with a point from Philip Monaghan. In an excellent opening quarter, Garrycastle added further points from Franko Doolin, Cathal Mannion and Paul Mulvihill before The Downs opened their account. With 5 minutes to go to half time, Garrycastle were ahead by 6 points thanks to further scores from Cathal and Conor Duignan, but lost concentration as half-time approached, and conceded 1-2 from play before the half-time whistle sounded. Garrycastle leading by a single score, 0-9 to 1-5, at the break.

The Downs opened the second-half scoring with a goal and two points in the first 10 minutes. Cathal kicked two points from frees to keep Garrycastle in touch, before a mix-up in the Garrycastle goal gave a simple tap-in to a Downs forward to extend their lead. To their credit, Garrycastle fought back, with points from Paul O’Donovan and Cathal, but playing into the swirling wind at this stage found scores harder to come by. As the game entered the final quarter, and legs started to tire on a heavy pitch, Garrycastle’s lack of substitutes started to tell, and the introduction by the Downs of a number of their substitutes swung the game their way, and they kicked a couple of late points to secure the win. Garrycastle’s final score of the half was a free from Philip.

Notwithstanding the result, Garrycastle can take a number of positives from the game. The players who made themselves available, including some of this years minors, some players playing their first match of the year, and some who had been involved earlier in the weekend, deserve the highest credit. The first half play in particular was extremely good, with some great interplay, and some excellent points taken from play. A particular highlight of the game was some excellent marks taken in the middle of the field.

Overall, this was not the result Garrycastle would have wanted, but the game offered some real indications that there is a team here to build on this year.

Garrycastle: Paul Gunning, Mark Denby, Ben Kennedy, Brian Leahy, Colm Lynch, Enda Keena, Conor Macken, Emmet Ward, Conor Duignan (0-1), Adam Keena, Paul Mulvihill (0-1), Philip Monaghan (0-2, 0-1f), Cathal Mannion (0-8, 0-5f), Franko Doolin (0-1), Paul O’Donovan (0-1).

ACL Division 3 [11 February 2017]

BALLINACARGY 4-18 GARRYCASTLE 1-06

Garrycastle's second team were well beaten on their first outing of 2017 when they travelled to Ballinacargy on a very cold Saturday afternoon. With depleted numbers and missing some regular players, the visitors were unable to contain a strong Ballinacargy team. The opening 15 minutes was well contested with only two points separating the teams. For the remainder of the first half, the home team were dominant and by half-time lead by 2-10 to 0-2.

Garrycastle put themselves back in contention early in the second have with a well taken goal by Tom O'Halloran and by mid-way in the second half had scored 1-4 and worked to try and contain the home team. As the match progressed, Ballinacargy again took control and proceeded to notch up more scores to run out easy winners in the end.

GARRYCASTLE: Michael Fagan, Ben Kennedy, Anthony Larkin, Gary Mullery, Enda Keena, Gavin Ward, Frank Farrell, Neal Rattigan, Emmet Ward(0-1), Cathal Mannion (0-2, 2f),Tom O'Halloran(1-2, 1f), Bryan McCormack, Paul Mulvihill (0-1), Paul Gunning, Mark Denby.

ACL Division 1 [10 February 2017]

GARRYCASTLE 5-12 CASTLEDALY 2-07

Garrycastle had a successful first competitive outing of the year when they defeated Castledaly by 5-12 to 2-7. Played on a chilly evening in Garrycastle, play was even in the early stages before Castledaly crept into a 0-5 to 0-3 lead after 20 minutes. A strong finish to the half by the home team saw them build a six point lead by half time, leading by 2-6 to 0-6. A goal by Tom O’Halloran which was set up by Dessie Dolan and another by Conor Cosgrave helped to build up the lead. First half points came from Dessie Dolan (0-2), Conor Cosgrave (0-1), Cathal Mannion (0-1), Alex Gardiner (0-1) and Justin Barrett (0-1).

Garrycastle scored the first three points in the second half from Alex Gardiner, a spectacular one from Dessie Dolan and Cathal Mannion. Castledaly’s first score of the half was a goal which was followed by a second goal leaving Garrycastle leading by 2-10 to 2-6 after 41 minutes. However from there to the end Garrycastle dominated with points from Conor Cosgrave, Owen Monaghan, coming before Conor Cosgrave goaled from a penalty. Further goals from Michael Monaghan and Alex Gardiner came before the last point by Cathal Mannion. Castledaly’s only score during this period was a point. This was a good workmanlike performance from Garrycastle .

GARRYCASTLE: Mark Keenan, John Gaffey, Jack Donoghue, Anthony Larkin, Frank Farrell, Gary McCallon , Doran Harte, Justin Barrett, Jonathan Maguire, Cathal Mannion , Dessie Dolan, Tom O’Halloran, Paul Gunning, Conor Cosgrave, Alex Gardiner.

Subs Owen Monaghan for Paul Gunning, Michael Monaghan for Tom O’Halloran, Mathew Guiheen for Frank Farrell, Gary Mullery for Gary McCallon.