Match Reports Adult

ACL Division 1 [20 November 2016]

ST. LOMANS 2-12, GARRYCASTLE 1-5

St. Loman’s added the league title to their championship success with this victory over Garrycastle in Lakepoint Park last Sunday morning. Before a very small attendance for what was effectively a league final, the home team were much sharper early on and with Shane Dempsey continuing his recent good form they led by 1-4 to 0-1 after 15 minutes. Garrycastle had played no football since their championship exit seven weeks ago, and rustiness was all too obvious. The absence of eight players from their last championship line-out made their task even more difficult. On a positive note, Dessie Dolan made a welcome return after injury and showed all his old craft and skill. He pointed four frees from difficult angles while cousin James added another to leave Garrycastle 0-5 to 1-6 in arrears at half time.

Loman’s stretched their lead to six points after the break until a superb Conor Cosgrove goal brought his team back into the game. Unfortunately, a few chances to reduce the gap further went astray and the superior fitness of the home team was very evident in the last quarter as they tacked on further scores to run out clear winners.

Garrycastle: Mark Keenan, Gary Mullery, Anthony Larkin, Frank Farrell, Neill Rattigan, Doron Harte, Gary McCallon, Justin Barrett, Johnny McGuire, James Dolan (0-1), Dessie Dolan (0-4, frees), Enda Keena, Cathal Mannion,

Conor Cosgrove (1-0), Michael Monaghan.

Subs: Eoin Monaghan for Keena, Ben Kennedy for Mullery, Enda Keena for McCallon (injured).

Under 21 Championship [6 November 2016]

Garrycastle suffered a heavy defeat to The Downs in their first game in the Under 21 championship in Garrycastle last Sunday morning. The visitors had contested the last three minor finals, winning two, so they were always going to be formidable opponents. Nevertheless, Garrycastle had several players who played Senior and Junior championship this year and will be disappointed that they were so comprehensively outplayed all over the field. Most of the players have seen little action over the past number of weeks and rustiness was all too evident in their play. Garrycastle took the lead with an early pointed free from Cathal Mannion but that was as good as it got. The Downs replied with two quick goals that seemed to knock the heart out of Garrycastle and they went on to lead by 4-5 to 1-4 at the break. Five unanswered points after half time followed by another goal left The Downs in an unassailable position and they kicked points from all angles and distances in the final quarter to record an emphatic victory.

Garrycastle: Eoin Duignan, Darragh Brody, Ben Kennedy, Adam Keena, Mark Denby, Bill Kelly, Frank Farrell (0-1), Mark Curley, Michael Monaghan (1-1, 0-1 free), Ross Mulvihill, Cathal Mannion (0-3, 2 frees), Colm Lynch, Conor Duignan, Kenny Dolan, Philip Monaghan.

Subs: Brian Leahy for Keena; Conor Macken for Denby; Conor Mulvihill for Farrell (injured).

ACL (Division 3) [14 October 2016]

Milltownpass 1-12 Garrycastle 2-5

Garrycastle’s second team delivered a below par performance in their ACL Division 3 game on Friday night against Milltownpass. This was a must win game for the home team as the visitors had a 100% record coming into the game after 6 matches played. Milltownpass were first off the mark with a point before Cathal Mannion goaled by palming the ball to the net when set up by Neal Rattigan after his strong run from midfield. Milltownpass did not panic and were level by the 12th minute. Another well worked goal followed for the home team after 15 minutes when Matty Guiheen put Michael Monaghan through and he finished the ball to the net with aplomb. The visitors responded well and by the 22nd minute were back in front when they goaled on the third attempt after two blocks off the line. A further point from the visitors left the score at the break at 1-5 to 2-0.

Being a man down, Garrycastle struggled in the early stages of the second half and the visitors tacked on five further points before Cathal Mannion scored Garrycastle’s first point of the match mid-way through the second moiety. Two further points followed from the home team from substitute Conor Duignan and Sean Brennan who earlier moved outfield when Padraig Cosgrove came on to replace Noel Galvin. This mini-revival was too little too late and Milltownpass added two more points while Cathal Mannion completed the scoring for Garrycastle with the last point of the game. Garrycastle struggled to find consistency in this game and despite getting in for two well taken goals created few other scoring chances in comparison to the visitors who displayed more creativity and accuracy in point scoring.

GARRYCASTLE: Sean Brennan (0-1), Frank Farrell, Anthony Larkin, Ben Kennedy, Enda Keena, John O’Shaughnessy, Neale Rattigan, Matty Guiheen, David O’Shaughnessy, Bryan McCormack, Noel Galvin, Jonny McGuire, Cathal Mannion (1-2), Conor Cosgrove, Michael Monaghan (1-1, 1f),

Subs: C. Duignan (0-1) for B. McCormack, 45 mins, P. Cosgrove for N. Galvin, 50 mins, M. Denby for E. Keena, 55 mins.

All County League, Div. 3 [14 October 2016]

GARRYCASTLE 2-05, MILTOWNPASS 1-12

Subs: C. Duignan (0-1) for B. McCormack, 45 mins, P. Cosgrove for N. Galvin, 50 mins, M. Denby for E. Keena, 55 mins.

Senior Football Championship, Quarter-Final [1 October 2016]

St. Loman’s 2-13 Garrycastle 1-8

The seniors failed in their bid to reach the semi-final when losing out to a strong second half from championship favourites St. Loman’s in Cusack Park last Saturday. Garrycastle were dealt a huge blow before the game when Dessie Dolan was ruled out through injury. With Eoin Monaghan and Matthew Guiheen already unavailable, they suffered another set-back when Rory McGowan was stretchered off after just two minutes. A great point from Alex Gardiner from a difficult angle gave Garrycastle an early lead but Loman’s scored the next four points to lead by three after 20 minutes. Mark McCallon went forward to kick an inspirational point and this was followed quickly by a pointed free from Conor Cosgrove. Loman’s stretched their lead to three points again but Garrycastle finished the half well with another brilliant point from Alex Gardiner and another pointed free by Conor Cosgrove to leave Loman’s leading by 0-6 to 0-5 at half time.

Loman’s again went three points clear after the break before Alex Gardiner kicked another point from a sharp angle which went over off the post but Loman’s responded with a pointed free. John Gaffey picked up a head injury and bravely played on after a brief delay but Loman’s then struck for the game’s first goal to open up a six-point lead. A classy point by Michael Monaghan was soon cancelled out before Alex Gardiner brought his team right back into the game with a superb goal. Soon after, however, came the game’s defining moments when James Dolan was taken out off the ball and this led to a skirmish involving several players. After consulting his officials Barry Kelly dismissed two players from each team but many onlookers felt that the referee had been badly advised in some instances. The loss of two key defenders in the final quarter left Garrycastle exposed at the back and Loman’s added another goal and three pointed frees in the closing minutes, while Garrycastle’s only reply was another Alex Gardiner point. There can be no denying that Loman’s were the better team but the final score didn’t do justice to Garrycastle’s brave efforts.

So ends Garrycastle’s long championship campaign that involved eight matches. A few weeks ago they were flirting with a relegation play-off and they deserve credit for three convincing wins over Maryland, Castledaly and The Downs. Inevitably, however, having to play so many crucial games in such a short space of time took its toll.

Team: Sean Brennan, Jack Donohue, Karl Henson, Anthony Larkin, John Gaffey, Mark McCallon (0-1), Gary McCallon, Justin Barrett, Seanie O’Donoghue, Michael Monaghan (0-1), James Dolan, Doron Harte, Conor Cosgrove (0-2, frees), Rory McGowan, Alex Gardiner (1-4).

Subs: Johnny McGuire for McGowan (injured), Damien Rushe for O’Donoghue, Tom O’Halloran for Cosgrove and Neill Rattigan for McGuire.

Senior Football Championship Play-off, Part 2 [25 September 2016]

Garrycastle 4-11 The Downs 0-9

For the 16th time in 17 years, Garrycastle seniors have qualified for the quarter-final stages of the Westmeath championship after this well merited win over The Downs in Cusack Park last Sunday. Playing with a strong wind, Garrycastle dominated possession in the first half but resolute defending by The Downs allowed few clear scoring opportunities. They started well with two Alex Gardiner points, one from a 45, and a pointed free by Conor Cosgrove followed by Alex Gardiner’s second point from play gave them a 0-4 to 0-2 lead after 20 minutes. Conor added another pointed free before Dessie Dolan entered the fray late in the half and quickly won a free which was pointed by Alex. This left Garrycastle 0-6 to 0-2 ahead at half time – by no means a secure lead with the wind to face after the break.

A brilliant point from Michael Monaghan from an acute angle gave Garrycastle a good start to the second half. The Downs replied with a pointed free but then a defence-splitting move between James and Dessie Dolan ended with a great goal by James to put Garrycastle seven points clear. The Downs got their first score from play after 38 minutes but an Alex Gardiner point followed by James Dolan’s second goal effectively decided the outcome. The Downs managed a few more points from placed balls but Garrycastle responded with two points from play by James Dolan and Conor Cosgrove. In the closing minutes Garrycastle put the seal on their victory with goals from Michael Monaghan and Matthew Guiheen, both expertly set up by John Gaffey.

After a somewhat sluggish first half performance, Garrycastle will draw encouragement from their splendid second half, in which they scored 4-5, with all but one point coming from open play. Their steady improvement in recent weeks is evidenced by the fact that they had lost by nine points to The Downs six weeks previously, so Sunday’s win represents a 23- point swing in their favour. Their next match is against championship favourites St. Loman’s, which is fixed from next Saturday in Cusack Park at 2.30pm.

Team: Sean Brennan, Karl Henson, Jack Donohue, Anthony Larkin, Mark McCallon, John Gaffey, Gary McCallon, James Dolan (2-1), Justin Barrett, Johnny McGuire, Rory McGowan, Doron Harte, Conor Cosgrove (0-4, 3 frees), Alex Gardiner (0-5, 2 frees, 1 45), Michael Monaghan (1-1).

Subs: Dessie Dolan for McGuire, Frank Farrell for Henson, Seanie O’Donoghue for D. Dolan, Matthew Guiheen (1-0) for McGowan, Damien Rushe for Gardiner and Neill Rattigan for G. McCallon.

Senior Football Championship Play-off (Part 1) [17 September 2016]

Garrycastle 1-17 Castledaly 0-10

The seniors qualified for the play-off final with a clear-cut win over Castledaly in Tubberclair last Saturday. Garrycastle had a bright start and kicked some excellent points from play with James Dolan, Alex Gardiner and Conor Cosgrove all hitting the target twice, while Mark McCallon notched another from distance. They built up a lead of seven points before Castledaly got off the mark with a few pointed frees but Garrycastle had two more points from play by James Dolan and Conor Cosgrove to lead at the break by 0-9 to 0-5.

Two early second half points from Alex Gardiner (one from a free) gave his team a six-point cushion. The game was effectively decided soon afterwards when Alex got through for a very good goal and Castledaly were then reduced to 14 players. In the final quarter Garrycastle picked off good points from Michael Monaghan, Justin Barrett, Dessie Dolan, Conor Cosgrove (free), James Dolan and Gary McCallon. With victory assured the team management took the opportunity to rest a few players who were carrying minor injuries. Even though Garrycastle missed some good chances late in the game they ran out comfortable winners by a ten-point margin.

Garrycastle now face The Downs on Sunday next in Cusack Park at 1.30pm with a quarter-final place against St. Loman’s up for grabs. When these teams met in August The Downs recorded a nine-point win but Garrycastle have shown significant improvement since then and will be encouraged by last Saturday’s scoring return of 1-17, with all but two points coming from open play.

Team: Sean Brennan, Karl Henson, Anthony Larkin, Jack Donohue, Mark McCallon (0-1), John Gaffey, Gary McCallon (0-1), Justin Barrett (0-1), Seanie O’Donoghue, Johnny McGuire, James Dolan (0-4), Doron Harte, Conor Cosgrove (0-4, 1 free), Matthew Guiheen, Alex Gardiner (1-4, 1 free).

Subs: Dessie Dolan (0-1) for Guiheen; Michael Monaghan (0-1) for McGuire; Damien Rushe for Cosgrove; Neill Rattigan for Gaffey; Robbie Shine for Harte and Mark Curley for O’Donoghue.

Senior Football Championship [11 September 2016]

GARRYCASTLE 2-10, MARYLAND 0-04

The seniors kept alive their championship hopes with a clear win over Maryland in Tang last Sunday. Garrycastle had first use of the strong wind but scores were at a premium early on. A Conor Cosgrove point got them off the mark only for Maryland to equalise soon afterwards. Garrycastle then hit four unanswered points from Robbie Shine (two frees), Rory McGowan and Johnny McGuire but in the closing minutes of the half there were three pointed frees, one from Conor Cosgrove and two for Maryland. This left Garrycastle with a tenuous 0-6 to 0-3 lead as they turned over to face the wind.

Dessie Dolan came on at half time for his first appearance in this year’s championship and quickly made his presence felt with a neat point. Mark McCallon extended the lead to five points before Maryland had their only point of the half from a free. Garrycastle withstood some sustained pressure before Conor Cosgrove latched onto a breaking ball for the game’s first goal. This gave his team some breathing space and seemed to knock Maryland’s confidence, and a second goal by Alex Gardiner put the result beyond any doubt. Late points from Conor Cosgrove (free) and James Dolan put the seal on this important win.

When news came through after the game that Castledaly had beaten The Downs the Garrycastle players knew that their season was still alive and they can face into the three-way play-off with some confidence.

TEAM: Sean Brennan, Jack Donohue, Anthony Larkin, Karl Henson, Mark McCallon (0-1), John Gaffey, Gary McCallon, Seanie O’Donoghue, James Dolan (0-1), Johnny McGuire (0-1), Justin Barrett, Doron Harte, Conor Cosgrove (1-3, 2 frees), Rory McGowan (0-1), Robbie Shine (0-2, frees).

Subs: Dessie Dolan (0-1) for Shine (halt time); Alex Gardiner (1-0) for McGowan (44 mins) ; Michael Monaghan for Henson (50 mins); Tom O’Halloran for McGuire (55 mins) and Matthew Guiheen for Barrett (58 mins).

Junior Football Championship, Quarter-Final [7 September 2016]

KILBEGGAN SHAMROCKS 1-08, GARRYCASTLE 0-08

The Junior team just missed out on a semi-final place when losing to Kilbeggan Shamrocks in Páirc Chiaráin last Wednesday evening. Playing with the benefit of a strong wind Garrycastle found scoring difficult in the wet conditions. Fortunately, Kilbeggan experienced similar problems and also missed some good opportunities. Points from play by Paul Mulvihill, Gary Mullery and Ciaran O’Neill (2) kept Garrycastle in touch but Frank Farrell was unlucky when his close-range effort came back off the crossbar. A pointed free by Cathal Mannion left the teams level at the break at 0-5 each and Kilbeggan seemed to be in a very strong position.

However, Garrycastle kept their opponents scoreless for ten minutes after the break and a Robbie Fox point gave them the lead. Kilbeggan soon equalised but Cathal Mannion restored Garrycastle’s lead coming into the last quarter. Robbie Fox then picked up a second yellow card but Kilbeggan’s numerical advantage was short lived when one of their players was also dismissed. The crucial score came when Kilbeggan got through for the game’s only goal but Garrycastle had reason to feel aggrieved at the number of steps taken in the build-up to this score. Garrycastle lost Tom McHugh to injury but, they continued to battle and a pointed free by Ciaran O’Neill left them just a point in arrears. Both sides missed chances in the closing minutes but Kilbeggan got two late points to secure victory.

Garrycastle: Shane McEnery, Gary Mullery (0-1), Bill Kelly, Emmet Ward, Frank Farrell, John O’Shaughnessy, Alan Fox, David O’Shaughnessy, Tom McHugh, Peadar Mulvihill, Ciaran O’Neill (0-3, 1 free), Robbie Fox (0-1), Cathal Mannion (0-2, 1 free), Noel Galvin, Paul Mulvihill (0-1).

Subs: Enda Keena for Peadar Mulvihill, Alan Daly for McHugh (injured) and Brian McCormack for Paul Mulvihill.

ACL (Division 1) [5 September 2016]

Garrycastle 2-10 Caulry 0-5

The seniors collected two more league points with a comprehensive win over Caulry in Garrycastle last Saturday evening. After some heavy rain conditions were difficult but Garrycastle coped well in the first half and had a lead of 2-5 to 0-1 at half time despite having played into the wind. Both goals were well executed, with Justin Barrett and Johnny McGuire finishing clinically after good moves. Caulry dominated the third quarter but enjoyed little luck with their shooting before Garrycastle regained control and kicked five points to put the seal on their victory.

Team: Sean Brennan, Anthony Larkin, Jack Donohue (0-1), Karl Henson, Mark McCallon, John Gaffey, Gary McCallon, Seanie O’Donoghue (0-1), James Dolan, Johnny McGuire (1-0), Rory McGowan (0-1), Doron Harte, Conor Cosgrove (0-2), Justin Barrett (1-2), Robbie Shine (0-1).

Subs: Michael Monaghan for Shine; Alex Gardiner (0-2) for Cosgrove; Neill Rattigan for Henson; Mark Curley for McGowan.

Senior Football Championship [28 August 2016]

Mullingar Shamrocks 0-13 Garrycastle 0-10

The seniors’ hopes of making the knock-out stages are now very slim after this defeat in Rosemount’s O’Growney Park last Sunday evening. Playing against the wind in the first half Garrycastle would have been happy enough with the half time situation, when they trailed by 0-7 to 0-5. However, apart from one good spell in the final quarter when they scored four unanswered points to cut the deficit to the minimum, they never really took advantage of the wind. Yet, in a close game a goal would surely have been crucial but two good opportunities were missed and Shamrocks got two late points to secure victory.

Team: Sean Brennan, Jack Donohue, Anthony Larkin, Karl Henson, Neill Rattigan, John Gaffey, Gary McCallon, Justin Barrett (0-1), James Dolan, Conor Cosgrove (0-7, 5 frees, 2 45s), Doron Harte, Matthew Guiheen, Johnny McGuire, Rory McGowan, Michael Monaghan (0-2 frees).

Subs: Damien Rushe for Guiheen; Seanie O’Donoghue for Monaghan.

Junior Football Championship, Section B, Playoff [28 August 2016]

Garrycastle 5-11, St. Loman’s 4-11

For the third year in a row, the Junior team progressed to the quarter final after a hard-earned win over the home team in Lakepoint Park last Sunday. Garrycastle had a bad start when a half-blocked effort for a point by Loman’s spun awkwardly and bounced favourably for the Loman’s corner forward who finished to the net. However, the teams were soon level when a David O’Shaughnessy centre was fumbled by the Loman’s defence and Paul Mulvihill pounced for the equaliser. Garrycastle went two points clear but then a short kick-out was intercepted and despatched to the net. Again Garrycastle responded quickly when Ciaran O’Neill found the net after great work by Cathal Mannion. This pattern was repeated later in the half when, after Loman’s had notched their third goal, Peadar Mulvihill crashed the ball to the net after a free kick by Cathal Mannion came back off the post. Garrycastle led by 3-5 to 3-4 at half time and with the wind in their favour quickly extended the lead to three points after the break. However, Loman’s enjoyed a spell of supremacy and took the lead before Ciaran O’Neill got his second goal after a defence-splitting run by Frank Farrell. Paul O’Donovan entered the fray and with his first touch found the net but Loman’s still weren’t finished and when they got through for their fourth goal the sides were level again. In the final minutes, three points from Ciaran O’Neill (one from a free) gave Garrycastle victory.

Garrycastle will now face Kilbeggan Shamrocks in the quarter final in Moate on Wednesday 7th September. They will know that

improvements will be needed, especially in defence, but there were some good individual displays, none more so than Frank Farrell. The experience of David O’Shaughnessy and Tom McHugh was vital in the midfield area and Ciaran O’Neill and Cathal Mannion carried most threat up front, while sub Conor Duignan was a lively addition in the final quarter.

Team: Shane McEnery, Gary Mullery, Emmet Ward, Ben Kennedy, Bill Kelly, John O’Shaughnessy, Frank Farrell (0-2), Tom McHugh, David O’Shaughnessy, Peadar Mulvihill (1-1), Ciaran O’Neill (2-7, 3 frees), Enda Keena, Cathal Mannion (0-1), Noel Galvin, Paul Mulvihill (1-0).

Subs: Ronan Donohue for Mullery; Paul O’Donovan (1-0) for Peadar Mulvihill, Conor Duignan for Paul Mulvihill, Paul Mulvihill for O’Donovan (injured) and Peadar Mulvihill for Mannion (B/C).

Senior Football Championship [13 August 2016]

THE DOWNS 5-11 GARRYCASTLE 2-11

Garrycastle suffered their second defeat in the 2016 Senior Championship when they were beaten by three clear goals by The Downs in Rochfortbridge on Saturday last. The game was not as one sided as the score line might suggest and it was still in the melting pot in the last 3 minutes with The Downs leading by just two points. They then blitzed Garrycastle with 2 goals in a 2 minute spell into injury time to deservedly take the spoils.

The game started with Eoin Monaghan putting Garrycastle a point up with an opening attack which could have delivered a goal. In response, The Downs went up the field from the kick-out and punished the Garrycastle defence which seemed to be caught napping with a goal. This was followed by two quick points and a second goal to put The Downs six points up after 10 minutes. Garrycastle responded well to this early setback and put a number of good scores together including a goal from Conor Cosgrove. By the 20th minute the sides were level and after exchanging a number of points were still level at the half-time break with a score of 2-5 to 1-8.

Garrycastle were first off the mark in the second half with a Conor Cosgrove pointed free. The Downs then put together a number of scores with a third goal and some well taken long range points. Garrycastle added another Conor Cosgrove goal followed by a James Dolan point to leave 2 points between the sides on 50 minutes. The last 10 minutes is when the game turned in The Downs favour. A penalty for Garrycastle taken by Robbie Shine was saved and this seemed to lift The Downs and also deflate the Garrycastle team. There were a number of wides for Garrycastle and then The Downs pounced to finish off the game with two late goals.

There will be plenty for the Garrycastle team to reflect on and they will need to up their performance as they prepare for their next outing in the Championship.

GARRYCASTLE: Sean Brennan, Neal Rattigan, Jack Donohoe, John Gaffey, Mark Curley, Doron Harte, Gary McCallon , Justin Barrett, James Dolan (0-1), Eoin Monaghan(0-4), Damien Rushe (0-1), Matty Guiheen (0-1), Tom O’Halloran (0-1), Robbie Shine(0-1, 1f), Conor Cosgrove (2-2, 1f),

SUBS used. A. Browne for D. Rushe (HT), M McCallon for N Rattigan (HT), A. Larkin for M. Curley (50 mins) M. Monaghan for R. Shine (50 mins).

Junior Football Championship, Section B [9 August 2016]

GARRYCASTLE 2-09, ATHLONE 1-12

Neither team could be really happy with the outcome of this match in Garrycastle last Tuesday. The draw means that Garrycastle have now dropped five points which leaves them in a precarious position but Athlone’s situation is slightly worse. If one can trust the county website, there is a considerable backlog of matches remaining. Maybe some games have been played that have not been recorded, so we must await clarification.

Garrycastle had the benefit of the wind in the first half and took an early four-point lead but still found themselves trailing by 1-4 to 1-3 at half time. Indeed, things would have been worse but for a great penalty save by Shane McEnery, and the loss of Rory McGowan to injury made their task much harder. Garrycastle edged in front with two Robbie Shine pointed frees after the break but Athlone then hit a good spell with five unanswered points to take a four-point lead. Two more Shine points and a great goal by sub Alan Daly put Garrycastle back in front but Athlone had two late points to level the game.

Garrycastle mixed the good with the bad throughout this game and more consistency will be needed if they are to make any impact in the closing stages of the competition. Apart from the accurate Robbie Shine the attack lacked any penetration, although the introduction of Alan Daly and Paul Gunning certainly improved matters.

Team: Shane McEnery, Gary Mullery, Emmet Ward, Alan Fox, Frank Farrell, John O’Shaughnessy, Ben Kennedy, Rory McGowan, Seanie O’Donoghue, Brian McCormack, Noel Galvin, Enda Keena, Tom McHugh, Robbie Shine (1-8, 4 frees), Cathal Mannion (0-1).

Subs: Peadar Mulvihill for McGowan (injured), Paul Gunning for Galvin (B/C), Stephen McGuire for McEnery (injured), Alan Daly for McCormack.

Two more championship points were collected when The Downs conceded a walkover on Friday evening. That means Garrycastle, having completed their programme, have a total of 13 points.

ACL (Division 1) [7 August 2016]

Garrycastle 1-9 Athlone 0-9

The senior team collected two hard-earned points from this visit to Páirc Chiaráin last Sunday evening. The game had originally been fixed for the previous Tuesday but was postponed as a mark of respect to former Athlone player Dermot McManus and a minute’s silence was impeccably observed before the throw-in. Garrycastle had wind advantage but it was Athlone that started the brighter, scoring two early points. However, the home team suffered a set-back when their key forward John Connellan had to retire injured. Garrycastle eventually found some rhythm and a well-taken goal by Tom O’Halloran helped them to lead by 1-6 to 0-4 at half time. Athlone had more of the play in the second half but found scoring difficult and relied for the most part on frees. The closest they got to Garrycastle was three points but two excellent second half points from Rory McGowan proved crucial as Garrycastle hung on for a three-point win.

Team: Sean Brennan, Neill Rattigan, John Gaffey, Jack Donohue, Mark Curley, Doron Harte, Gary McCallon (0-1), Justin Barrett, James Dolan, Eoin Monaghan, Damien Rushe, Matthew Guiheen, Conor Cosgrove (0-4, 1 free, 1 45), Rory McGowan (0-4), Tom O’Halloran (1-0).

Subs: Johnny McGuire for Rushe, Michael Monaghan for O’Halloran, Ciarán O’Neill for McGuire (injured).

Junior Football Championship, Section B [21 July 2016]

ST. LOMANS 0-09, GARRYCASTLE 2-08

The Garrycastle junior team took a hard-earned win from this encounter in Lakepoint Park on Thursday evening. Playing against a strong breeze in the first half, Garrycastle were first off the mark with a point from Robbie Fox. They doubled their lead with a pointed free from Robbie Shine, after the St. Lomans side had squandered numerous chances. The home team then hit a string of three points in a row to take the lead before Ciaran O’Neill equalised when a goal looked possible. Moments later Rory McGowan found himself through with only the keeper to beat, but pulled his effort just wide of the far post. A further point from Robbie Shine edged Garrycastle back in front, before two goals in the space of two minutes, the first from Robbie after a great flowing move up the field, and the second from Bryan McCormack, left Garrycastle comfortably in charge at halftime on a 2-04 to 0-03 scoreline.

Playing with the aid of the strong breeze in the second half, it was expected that Garrycastle would kick on, but instead it was the home team who pressed, and over the next 20 minutes scored six unanswered points to leave just the bare minimum between the side with 10 minutes to go. Indeed, during this time, the Garrycastle side did not manage to mount a single serious attack on the St. Loman’s goal. Instead, it was the turn of the Garrycastle defensive unit to shine, with some excellent defending from John O’Shaughnessy, Frank Farrell and Bill Kelly catching the eye.

As the game entered the last five minutes, the Garrycastle team finally started to attack with purpose, and were rewarded with their first score of the half with an excellent long range point from Rory McGowan. The same player repeated the feat a minute later, and two points as the game went into added time from Robbie Shine (one a free), made the game safe.

Overall, this was the classic game of two halves. That it took more than 25 minutes for Garrycastle to score in the second half will be a cause of some concern, but the team kept to their task in a workmanlike fashion, with a disciplined defensive display when needed.

Team:

Shane McEnery, Gary Mullery, Emmet Ward, Bill Kelly, Frank Farrell, John O’Shaughnessy, Ben Kennedy, Rory McGowan (0-2), Ciaran O’Neill (0-1), Enda Keena, Noel Galvin, Bryan McCormack (1-0), Peadar Mulvihill, Robbie Shine (1-4, 2f), Robbie Fox (0-1).

Subs: Stephen McGuire for Robbie Fox (inj, 35 mins), Adam Keena for Stephen McGuire (59 mins), Brian Leahy.

All-County League, Division 6 [11 July 2016]

DELVIN 1-05, GARRYCASTLE 0-22

Delvin showed their intent from the off in this Division 6 game played in Delvin on Monday evening, with a number of early attacks on the Garrycastle goal, yielding two points, (one from a free) in the opening minutes. By contrast, Garrycastle got off to a very lacklustre start, and took until the 14th minute to open their account with a pointed free from Robbie Shine. Delvin stretched their lead again, before a second point from Robbie brought Garrycastle back to within a point. Garrycastle then seemed to finally get to grips with the conditions and raised their game hugely, scoring five unanswered points, the last being a fisted effort from Ross Mulvihill, before Delvin pulled one back on the stroke of half-time to leave the score Garrycastle 0-7, Delvin 0-4 at the break.

The Garrycastle team emerged for the second half a totally different outfit, and totally dominated proceedings from the off. A powerful display in the centre of the field from Jonny McGuire, Neal Rattigan and Mark Curley saw them dominate possession, and launch a non-stop series of attacks on the Delvin goal. A string of 9 unanswered points during this period, saw them into an unassailable lead before Delvin scored their first point of the second half with 46 minutes on the clock.

Garrycastle pushed on hard at this stage, and inevitably this owned up opportunities for Delvin to attack, and twice in the space of 5 minutes they got in on goal, only to shoot wide. Another attack saw an excellent save by Shane McEnery in the Garrycastle goal, while not to be outdone, his counterpart in the Delvin goal saved point blank from Robbie Shine when a goal looked certain. Garrycastle kept the scoreboard ticking over during this time, though, with points from Enda Keena, Ross Mulvihill, Bill Kelly and Paul Gunning. As the game entered the final few seconds, Delvin scrambled a goal to narrow the divide a little.

Overall, this really was a game of two halves. Once the Garrycastle team found their feet and got to the pace of the game, there was only going to be one result. That no fewer than nine players scored in this game, showed the breadth of attacking options available, and at the other end of the field, the defensive unit ably organised by John O’Shaughnessy and Emmet Ward were resolute throughout.

Team:

Shane McEnery, Gary Mullery, Emmet Ward, Bill Kelly (0-3), Frank Farrell, John O’Shaughnessy, Mark Curley (0-1), Neal Rattigan, Jonny McGuire (0-3), Ross Mulvihill (0-2), Cathal Mannion (0-3), Enda Keena (0-3), Anthony Larkin (0-1), Robbie Shine (0-4, 0-1f), Paul Gunning (0-2).

Subs: Sean Carey for Gary Mullery (40 mins), Brian Leahy for Frank Farrell (45 mins).

Junior Football Championship, Section B [24 June 2016]

GARRYCASTLE 1-15, TYRELLSPASS 0-06

The Juniors collected two more championship points from this home game against Tyrrellspass last Friday. After a disappointing first quarter they trailed by 0-3 to no score, and had to wait almost 20 minutes before Cathal Mannion opened their account. By that stage they had missed a penalty and hit the crossbar, but in the closing minutes of the half they tacked on four points to lead by 0-5 to 0-4 at the break. Garrycastle, with the wind at their backs, hit four unanswered points early in the second half before Tyrrellspass responded with two quick scores to cut the gap to three points. However, they seemed to run out of steam at this stage and Garrycastle, with subs Robbie Fox and Paul Gunning adding much-needed urgency to the attack, proceeded to put the result beyond doubt with a string of points. A goal finished by Robbie Fox after good work by Cathal Mannion put the seal on their victory and keeps them in contention for a play-off place. Ultimately, their season will be defined by results over the next few weeks against Athlone and St. Loman’s who are also in contention for play-off places.

Garrycastle: Shane McEnery, Gary Mullery, Tom McHugh, Bill Kelly, Frank Farrell, John O’Shaughnessy, Alan Fox, Ciaran O’Neill, Noel Galvin, Enda Keena (0-5), Peadar Mulvihill, Brian Carty, Cathal Mannion (0-4, 1 free), Brian McCormack (0-3), Paul Mulvihill (0-1).

Subs: Robbie Fox (1-1) for Carty; Emmet Ward for O’Neill (injured); Paul Gunning (0-1) for McCormack; Stephen McGuire for Farrell; Ronan Donohue for Kelly and Ross Mulvihill for Paul Mulvihill.

Junior Football Championship, Section B [10 June 2016]

TUBBERCLAIR 0-06, GARRYCASTLE 3-16

With two defeats behind them, a win on Friday night was essential to remain in contention for a place in the knock-out stages so the game in Tubberclair was a must-win fixture.

The home team started brighter with two points but Robbie Shine kept Garrycastle in touch with his first three points. Approaching half-time, Garrycastle trailed by a point but a quick 1-2 without reply gave them a lead of 1-6 to 0-5 at the break. Another scoring burst early in the second half brought points from Cathal Mannion and three from the unerring boot of Robbie Shine which put daylight between the teams. Two quick goals from Shine and Frank Farrell put the game beyond Tubberclair and Garrycastle added a succession of points to leave them winners by 3-16 to 0-6.

Best performances on the night came from Tom McHugh, Frank Farrell, John O’Shaughnessy, Rory McGowan, Cathal Mannion and Robbie Shine.

Garrycastle: Shane McEnery, Gary Mullery, Tom McHugh, Bill Kelly, Frank Farrell (1-1), John O’Shaughnessy, Alan Fox, Rory McGowan (0-1), Seanie O’Donoghue, Cathal Mannion (0-3), Noel Galvin, Enda Keena (0-1), Peadar Mulvihill, Robbie Shine (1-8, 3 frees), Paul Mulvihill (1-0).

Subs: Robbie Fox (0-1) for McGowan (injured), Brian McCormack (0-1) for Keena, Stephen McGuire for Alan Fox, Ross Mulvihill for Paul Mulvihill, Ben Kennedy for Mullery and Conor Duignan for Shine.

Note: It was good to see Stephen McGuire back in action after several months out with injury, while Shane McEnery and Cathal Mannion showed great commitment to their club by lining out in the middle of their Leaving Certificate examination.

Junior Football Championship, Section B [7 June 2016]

MULLINGAR SHAMROCKS 3-09, GARRYCASTLE 1-09

Garrycastle travelled to Springfield on Tuesday, (June 7th), to take on Mullingar Shamrocks. With a number of players unavailable for various reasons, the understrength Garrycastle team never played with any real fluency and trailed by three points at the break. A goal from half-time substitute Alan Daly revived Garrycastle’s hopes but a second yellow card for Noel Galvin reduced them to 14 men. A third goal from the home team settled the issue as they ran out winners by 3-9 to 1-9.

Garrycastle: Padraig Cosgrove, Gary Mullery, Tom McHugh, Ben Kennedy, Frank Farrell, Alan Fox, Bill Kelly, Rory McGowan, Noel Galvin, Enda Keena, Peadar Mulvihill, Brian McCormack, Conor Duignan, Robbie Shine, Paul Mulvihill.

Subs: Alan Daly for Duignan, John O’Shaughnessy for Shine (black card), Sean Carey for Kennedy and Brian Carty for Keena.

All County League (Division 3) [31 May 2016]

GARRYCASTLE 2-07, MILLTOWN 1-09

The second team recorded a one-point win over Milltown in Garrycastle on Tuesday of last week. This was a lively game played in ideal conditions and the sides were evenly matched in the first quarter until a converted penalty by Conor Cosgrove gave Garrycastle the edge, and they led by 1-4 to 0-4 at half time.

Unfortunately, by that stage Garrycastle had lost midfielder Justin Barrett who had to retire injured after a very heavy tackle. We wish Justin a speedy recovery.

Garrycastle stretched their lead after the break and a well-worked goal finished by Cosgrove after good work by Alex Gardiner gave them a seven-point lead. However, Garrycastle were reduced to 14 men soon after when Johnny McGuire got a red card for retaliation, while his aggressor was fortunate to escape without any sanction. When the visitors got through for a goal and added a few points to equalise they seemed in pole position but spirited defending by Garrycastle kept the teams level until Alex Gardiner kicked the winning point from a late free to give his team a deserved victory.

GARRYCASTLE: Shane McEnery, Anthony Larkin, Tom McHugh, Alan Fox, Neill Rattigan, Seanie O’Donoghue, Frank Farrell, Justin Barrett, Rory McGowan (0-1), Johnny McGuire, Damien Rushe, Enda Keena, Noel Galvin, Conor Cosgrove (2-1, 1 penalty, 1 free), Alex Gardiner (0-5, frees).

Subs: Sean Brennan for Barrett (injured), Cathal Mannion for Galvin; Paul Mulvihill for Rushe.

Feis Cup [28 May 2016]

St. Loman’s 1-16 Garrycastle 0-8

County champions St. Loman’s came to Garrycastle on Saturday evening and inflicted an 11-point defeat on the home team. With county players on both sides ruled out, Garrycastle were also missing some other key players but competed well in the opening half. After falling three points behind, good scores from Seanie O’Donoghue, Gary McCallon and Michael Monaghan brought them level after 22 minutes. However, Loman’s finished the half well and added three points to lead by 0-7 to 0-4 at half time. They stretched their lead to five points after the break before Michael Monaghan reduced the deficit but that was to be his team’s only score in the third quarter as the visitors took control. They notched a succession of points followed by a goal from a penalty, with Garrycastle struggling all over the field. Garrycastle can take few positives from this display but luckily there is plenty of time to put things right before the next championship match.

Garrycastle: Mark Keenan, Jack Donohue, John Gaffey, Anthony Larkin, Bill Kelly, Doron Harte, Gary McCallon (0-1), Justin Barrett, Neill Rattigan, Michael Monaghan (0-3), Seanie O’Donoghue (0-1), Johnny McGuire, Eoin Monaghan (0-2, 1 free), Conor Cosgrove, Tom O’Halloran.

Subs: Cathal Mannion (0-1, free) for Cosgrove, Alan Fox for McCallon (injured) and Frank Farrell for O’Halloran (injured).

All County League (Division 6) [27 May 2016]

Garrycastle 0-13 St. Mary’s Rochfortbridge 0-10

Garrycastle’s third team collected two hard-earned points from this home fixture last Friday. Some light rain made conditions somewhat difficult but the two sides served up a decent game, with never more than a few points separating the teams. Both sides created plenty of scoring opportunities but Garrycastle were marginally sharper in their finishing, with almost all their scores coming from open play, especially from the accurate boot of Robbie Shine. After leading by 0-7 to 0-4 at the break, Garrycastle had to withstand a spirited challenge from the visitors in the second half. St. Mary’s cut the deficit to the minimum in the last quarter but late points from Enda Keena and Robbie Shine (2) assured their team of a welcome victory. Best displays on the evening came from Tom McHugh, Emmet Ward, Frank Farrell, Rory McGowan and Robbie Shine, while each of the substitutes made a useful contribution when introduced.

Garrycastle: Mark Keenan, Bill Kelly, Tom McHugh, Emmet Ward, Frank Farrell, Mark Curley, Enda Keena (0-1), Rory McGowan (0-2, 1 free), Anthony Larkin, Brian Carty, Kenny Dolan (0-1), Brian McCormack, Noel Galvin, Robbie Shine (0-6), Cathal Mannion (0-3).

Subs: Peadar Mulvihill for Mannion (injured), Paul Gunning for McCormack, Conor Duignan for Galvin and Ross Mulvihill for Carty.

All County League (Division 1) [22 May 2016]

TYRELLSPASS 0-7, GARRYCASTLE 1-8

The Garrycastle first team picked up an important win in Tyrellspass on Sunday afternoon. Garrycastle won the toss and elected to play with the strong wind in the first half, and had the first point on the board from Conor Cosgrove within the first 20 seconds. But even with the wind at their backs, and with the lions share of possession, Garrycastle found further scores hard to come by, and a brace of converted frees by the home side saw them into a slender lead at the end of the first quarter.

A good point from distance from Tom O'Halloran levelled the scores, before Damien Rushe found himself in on goal,and converted a difficult opportunity to put Garrycastle in front. A further point from Michael Monahan (following a quick sideline ball from Gary McCallon) put Garrycastle two points to the good. The home team squandered a few opportunites to narrow the lead before the best move of the half saw Damien Rushe find Conor Cosgrove in space and he scored the only goal of the game. At half-time, Garrycastle led by 1-4 to 0-2.

A threathened downpour at half-time never materialised, and if anything the wind dropped a little as the second half started. Garrycastle started brightly, but some indisciplne saw two yellow cards picked up in quick succession. Garrycastle extended their lead with pointed frees from Conor and Michael, and went further in front with a well taken point from play by second-half substitute Cathal Mannion. A pointed free was the only score in response from the home team.

As the game entered the last 10 minutes, a further free from the home team was answered with a point from play by Neal Rattigan. The home team then had their best chance at getting something from the match, but an excellent reflex save from Shane McEnery in the Garrycastle goals kept them at bay.

Entering the last few minutes, with the game petering out as a contest, it was the home team who finished the stronger scoring three points without replay.

It ended with Garrycastle the victors on a scoreline of 1-8 to 0-7.

Overall, this was a game that Garrycastle controlled for long periods, but didn't always get the rewards on the scoreboard that the amount of possession would have implied.

TEAM:

Shane McEnery, Jack Donoghue, John Gaffey, Anthony Larkin, Mark McCallon, Doron Harte, Gary McCallon, Neal Rattigan (0-1), Justin Barrett, Jonny McGuire, Damien Rushe (0-1), Matthew Guiheen, Tom O'Halloran (0-1), Conor Cosgrove (1-2, 1f), Michael Monahan (0-2, 1f).

Subs: Cathal Mannion (0-1) for Matthew Guiheen (half-time), Mark Curley for Justin Barrett, (inj, 36 mins), Sean O'Donoghue for Gary McCallon (55 mins), Frank Farrell for Jonny McGuire (57 mins).

Junior Football Championship [20 May 2016]

ROSEMOUNT 1-08, GARRYCASTLE 2-17

Garrycastle delivered a strong team performance with their visit to Rosemount on Friday evening in the Junior Championship and came away with a deserved victory.

The home team had two points on the board before Robbie Shine pointed a free for Garrycastle. A sequence of points followed as Garrycastle dominated the first half and were six points ahead when Robbie Shine finished to the net with a volley in the25th minute. The home team managed one more point before Garrycastle added two points to leave the score 1-10 to 0-3 at the half time break.

The second half was more closely fought with scores from both sides more or less even until Paul Mulvihill found the net and finished the game as a contest. Garrycastle then emptied the bench and despite Rosemount raising the green flag the visitors ran out clear winners in the end.

This was a disciplined and workmanlike performance which the team can be proud of and hopefully will repeat through the championship.

GARRYCASTLE: Shane Mc Enery, Gary Mullery, Tom McHugh, Emmet Ward, Frank Farrell, Seanie O’Donoghue (0-1), Alan Fox, Rory McGowan (0-3), Ciaran O’Neill (0-2), Enda Keena (0-2), Kenny Dolan, Bryan McCormack(0-1), Noel Galvin, Robbie Shine (1-6, 2f), Paul Mulvihill (1-2)

Subs used. B. Kelly for G. Mullery, E. Dalton for K. Dolan, B. Carthy for E. Keena, R. Mulvihill for R. Shine B. Kennedy for A Fox, B. Leahy for B McCormack.

Senior Football Championship [15 May 2016]

Killucan 3-9 Garrycastle 1-12

The seniors lost to Killucan for the second year in a row in sunny Shandonagh last Sunday. Garrycastle had the better of the early play but had three wides from scorable positions before they finally found the range. They led by 0-4 to 0-2 after 20 minutes, thanks to two Alex Gardiner frees and two superb points from play by Conor Cosgrove. A high ball into the Garrycastle square was fumbled and an alert Killucan forward first-timed it to the net to give his team the lead for the first time. Both team notched two more points from play before Damien Rushe equalised before the break with the score as that stage reading 0-7 to 1-4. Killucan settled quickly after half time and went three points clear but a point from Alex Gardiner followed by a well-taken goal by substitute Tom O’Halloran put Garrycastle back in front. The lead was short-lived, however, when Garrycastle gave away the ball in attack and Killucan scored their second goal after a quick counter attack. When they got through for a third goal they seemed assured of victory but to their credit Garrycastle responded with four points but Killucan had the final say with a late point to give them a three-point win.

This is a disappointing result for Garrycastle as they head into a two-month championship break and leaves little room for manoeuvre when action resumes in July. The return of Justin Barrett and Eoin Monaghan will surely help but a number of players will be concerned about their places on the starting team after this performance. Garrycastle have now conceded six championship goals to Killucan in less than nine months and this is an area that certainly needs attention. While the forwards scored 1-12 which will win many games they were also guilty of wasting some good chances and as a unit their work-rate fell short of what is required in championship football.

Garrycastle: Mark Keenan, Jack Donohue, John Gaffey, Anthony Larkin, Neill Rattigan, Mark McCallon, Gary McCallon, Doron Harte, Aidan Browne, Michael Monaghan, Damien Rushe (0-1), Mark Curley, James Dolan (0-1), Conor Cosgrove (0-4), Alex Gardiner (0-5, 3 frees).

Subs: Matthew Guiheen for Curley (29 mins), Tom O’Halloran (1-0) for Rushe (37 mins), Johnny McGuire (0-1) for Monaghan (44 mins).

All County League (Division 1) [8 May 2016]

CORALSTOWN/KINNEGAD 1-10, GARRYCASTLE 3-20

The seniors got back on the winning trail with a comprehensive win over the home team in Kinnegad on Sunday. Despite playing into a stiff wind, Garrycastle had much the better of the first half and led by 1-7 to 0-5 at the break, thanks mainly to a good goal from Conor Cosgrove following an incisive through ball from Doron Harte.

They quickly built on this lead after the break and finished off the contest with two Kenny Dolan goals, both at the end of swift passing movements. This was a good display from Garrycastle despite missing a few players but tougher tests await, the most immediate one being the championship second round match against Killucan next Sunday in Shandonagh at 2.30pm.

Garrycastle: Mark Keenan, Jack Donohue, John Gaffey, Gary Mullery, Anthony Larkin, Mark McCallon (0-2), Gary McCallon (0-1), Neill Rattigan, Aidan Browne, Doron Harte (0-1), Damien Rushe, Mark Curley (0-1), Kenny Dolan (2-1), Conor Cosgrove (1-6, 5 frees), Michael Monaghan (0-3, 1 free).

Subs: Johnny McGuire (0-2) for Curley (38 mins), James Duignan (0-3) for Rushe (45 mins), Sean Brennan for Cosgrove (49 mins) and Mark Curley for Browne (56 mins).

All County League (Division 6) [6 May 2016]

GARRYCASTLE 5-16, ST. JOSEPHS 1-12

The club’s third team collected two much-needed points from this one-sided game in Garrycastle last Friday. Several players were playing their second game in 24 hours and were eager to make amends for the poor display on Thursday. The game was less than two minutes old when Robbie Fox aggravated a hamstring injury and had to be replaced by Rory McGowan. The visitors settled quickly and led by 0-2 to 0-1 after six minutes before Garrycastle enjoyed a very good spell and scored a goal and four points without reply. Johnny McGuire made a welcome return after injury and created several openings for his colleagues. Garrycastle really cut loose in the second quarter and hit four more goals in a ten-minute spell which effectively wrapped up the points.

After leading by 5-7 to 0-6 at the break, Garrycastle coasted through the second half and ran out easy winners. They will know only too well, however, that more difficult hurdles will have to be surmounted if they are to secure their place in this division.

Garrycastle: Mark Keenan, Gary Mullery, Tom McHugh, Bill Kelly, Frank Farrell, Seanie O’Donoghue, Emmet Ward, Neill Rattigan (1-1), Noel Galvin (0-2, 1 free), Robbie Fox, Kenny Dolan (1-2, 1 free), Enda Keena (0-2), Paul Mulvihill (1-1), Johnny McGuire (0-1), Brian McCormack (2-2, 1 free).

Subs: Rory McGowan (0-1) for Fox (2 mins); Conor Duignan for McCormack (h/t), Emmet Keena (0-2) for McGuire (h/t), Ross Mulvihill (0-2) for Rattigan (38 mins); Brian Leahy for Mullery (42 mins) and Adam Keena for P. Mulvihill (48 mins).

All County League (Division 3) [5 May 2016]

GARRYCASTLE 0-9, BALLINAGORE 3-12

A very disappointing performance by the second team was punished by a 12-point defeat at the hands of Ballinagore in Garrycastle last Thursday. Ballinagore were in control in almost every sector and looked far fitter, better organised and more motivated than the home team. Spurred on by an early goal, they kept up the tempo and were not in the least flattered by their half time lead of 2-7 to 0-6.

A good point from the hard-working Sean Brennan on the restart gave some hope to Garrycastle but the visitors then rattled off 1-4 without reply to put the result beyond doubt. Indeed, the margin would have been greater but for some good saves by Shane McEnery, and there were very few positives to take from this game.

Garrycastle: Shane McEnery, Gary Mullery, Mark Curley, Alan Fox, Enda Keena, Neill Rattigan (0-1), Frank Farrell, Robbie Shine (0-1), Sean Brennan (0-4, 1 “45”), Evan Dalton, Tom O’Halloran, Emmet Keena, Alan Daly, Rory McGowan, Brian McCormack (0-2, frees).

Subs: Damien Rushe for Emmet Keena (H/T), Mark Keena for Dalton (35 mins), Ross Mulvihill for Fox (48 mins), Conor Duignan (0-1) for Daly (54 mins) and Brian Leahy for Farrell (55 mins).

All County League (Division 1) [2 May 2016]

TANG 1-12 GARRYCASTLE 1-10

An experimental Garrycastle team lost out to the home side in Tang on Bank Holiday Monday. This was the senior team’s first defeat of the year and puts an end to the 100% league record. On a wet and windy afternoon, the match was delayed by 30 minutes due to the late arrival of the referee and when the game eventually started it took both teams a long time to find any rhythm. Two Michael Monaghan points opened the scoring but Tang enjoyed a good spell and led by two points after 20 minutes. A well-worked move by Garrycastle ended with Tom O’Halloran palming the ball to the net but Tang finished the half strongly and led by 1-10 to 1-5 at the break.

With the wind in their favour the Garrycastle forwards had a plentiful supply after the break but it took over ten minutes before Michael Monaghan opened the second half scoring and despite missing several good opportunities they eventually drew level at 1-10 each with just a few minutes remaining. The momentum should have been with Garrycastle but instead it was the home team that got the last two points – their only scores of the second half – to secure the two points.

GARRYCASTLE: Mark Keenan, Enda Keena, Jack Donohue (0-1), Bill Kelly, Frank Farrell, Mark McCallon, Neill Rattigan, Mark Curley, Matthew Guiheen, Michael Monaghan (0-5, 1 free), James Dolan, Gary McCallon, Tom O’Halloran (1-0), Conor Cosgrove (0-2, 1 free), Alex Gardiner (0-2).

Subs: Doran Harte for Donohue (black card, 37 mins); Kenny Dolan for Farrell (45 mins).

All County League (Division 6) [28 April 2016]

GARRYCASTLE 1-05, ROSEMOUNT 2-15

Garrycastle were comprehensively defeated at home on Thursday evening last by Rosemount in this Division 6 encounter. The home team struggled at times during the match to contain the Rosemount side who were capable of finding scores at will. In contrast Garrycastle seemed to be limited in their attacking options and the only real threat came from Tom O’Halloran who scored 1-2 on the day. Rosemount led by 1-2 after 10 minutes before the Keena brothers, first Emmet and Enda delivered points for the home team. Garrycastle’s only other score was a pointed free by Tom O’Halloran before half time to leave the score at the break 1-6 to 0-3 to the visitors.

The second half started well with O’Halloran pointing but Rosemount upped their game and added a goal and three points to their tally before Tom O’Halloran netted for the home side. The loss of Tom McHugh to a black card did not help the Garrycastle cause and Rosemount continued to add on scores. The final Garrycastle score was a well taken point by substitute Ross Mulvihill.

All in all this was a match that Garrycastle will want to forget and will look to improve on in their next scheduled game in this Division.

GARRYCASTLE: Mark Keenan, Gary Mullery, Tom McHugh, Ronan Donoghue , Bill Kelly, Emmet Ward, Liam Flynn, Mark Curley, Neale Rattigan (0-1), Enda Keena (0-1), Tom O’Halloran (1-2,1f), Peadar Mulvihill, Emmet Keena (0-1), Noel Galvin, Bryan McCormack

Subs. Ross Mulvihill for Tom McHugh B/C (50 mins), Ben Kennedy for Ronan Donoghue, (52 mins) Brian Leahy for Peadar Mulvihill (55 mins), Adam Keena for Emmet Keena (55 mins).

Senior Football Championship [16 April 2016]

GARRYCASTLE 0-14, CASTLEDALY 1-04

The Garrycastle senior team collected two championship points from this seven-point win over Castledaly in Cusack Park last Saturday. In front of a small attendance, Garrycastle got off to a great start with four points in the opening five minutes. It was into the second quarter before Castledaly opened their account but Garrycastle responded with another four points and led by 0-8 to 0-3 at the break. They stretched their lead to seven points before the inevitable Castledaly fight-back yielded a pointed free followed by a goal to leave just three points between the teams coming into the last quarter. Two superbly pointed frees by Conor Cosgrove and two more points from substitute Tom O’Halloran restored Garrycastle’s seven-point advantage and put the game beyond Castledaly.

This was an encouraging start by Garrycastle and they can take several positives from the game. Apart from one lapse which allowed Castledaly through for their goal the defence was very solid, with debutant Mark Curley capping an impressive display with two fine points. Aidan Browne gave an exhibition of high fielding and dominated the midfield area while the forwards worked hard for each other and took some delightful scores. All will be aware, however, that improvements will be needed if further progress is to be achieved.

Garrycastle: Sean Brennan, Jack Donohue, Mark McCallon, Anthony Larkin, Mark Curley (0-3), John Gaffey, Gary McCallon, Aidan Browne, Doron Harte, Matthew Guiheen, James Dolan (0-2), Justin Barrett, Eoin Monaghan (0-2, 1 free), Conor Cosgrove (0-3, frees), Alex Gardiner (0-2, both 45s).

Subs: Michael Monaghan for Barrett (injured, 14 mins), Tom O’Halloran for Guiheen (47 mins), Neill Rattigan for Curley and Karl Henson for G. Mccallon (both 58 mins).

Justin Barrett sustained a broken nose in the first half and we wish him a quick recovery.

Junior Football Championship [15 April 2016]

CAULRY 1-09, GARRYCASTLE 0-8

Garrycastle's first outing in this year’s Junior Championship was unsuccessful as they were defeated away to Caulry on Friday last. Garrycastle were on the back foot from very early in the game when Caulry’s first attack produced a goal which was quickly followed by a sequence of points to put them 1-3 up before Garrycastle responded with a Kenny Dolan converted free after 20 minutes. Caulry produced two more points and Enda Keena responded for the visitors just before the break leaving the score at half time at 1-5 to 0-2.

It was obvious that an improvement was called for in the second half and Garrycastle were first off the mark with a well taken point from Bill Kelly. Further points from Enda Kenna and a brace from Noel Galvin, one from a free had Garrycastle back in the game by the midpoint of the second half. Unfortunately, poor finishing from the visitors meant that they were unable to reduce the margin below 3 points. Caulry produced two more points before another Kenny Dolan free and a further point from Caulry was answered by a point from substitute Bryan McCormack to leave the home team running out with a four point victory.

Due to a poor first half performance when Caulry were dominant, Garrycastle were always playing catch up and only for poor finishing in the second half this game could have produced a different result.

GARRYCASTLE; Shane Mc Enery, Gary Mullery, Tom McHugh, Alan Fox, Frank Farrell, Bill Kelly (0-1), Emmet Ward, Seanie O’Donoghue, Ciaran O’Neill, Brian Carty, Peadar Mulvihill, Enda Keena (0-2), Kenny Dolan (0-2, 2f) Noel Galvin (0-2, 1f), Paul Mulvihill

SUBS used. P. Gunning for Paul Mulvihill HT, R. Fox for E. Ward 40 mins, E. Dalton for B. Carty 45 mins, B. McCormack (0-1) for Peadar Mulvihill 57mins.

All County League (Division 1) [5 April 2016]

GARRYCASTLE 2-13 MARYLAND 0-7

Garrycastle produced an excellent second half performance to overwhelm Maryland when they met in the Division 1 encounter in Garrycastle on Tuesday night last. Garrycastle started lively with points from John Gaffey and Aidan Browne. Maryland responded well and were level by the mid-point in the first half at 3 points apiece, Alex Gardiner having got Garrycastle’s third point. Two frees, one converted by Conor Cosgrove, the other by Michael Monaghan put the home team in front. Conor Cosgrove then broke through the Maryland defence and found himself clear on goal only to be dragged to the ground by the which resulted in a penalty award and a black card for the Maryland keeper. Without time to bring on a substitute keeper Conor Cosgrave excellently converted the penalty giving the Maryland temporary keeper no chance. Maryland again responded well and produced a further two points before the half time whistle to leave the score at the break, Garrycastle 1-5 Maryland 0-5.

The second half started with a point from a free from Conor Cosgrove and this was followed by a Maryland point. From here on it was all Garrycastle and following his introduction, Tom O’Halloran pointed followed by a point from James Dolan. Another substitute, Eoin Monaghan converted two points from frees. Further points from play from Gary McCallon and Eoin Monaghan followed before Tom O’Halloran pounced on a loose ball and side footed to the net. Conor Cosgrave then pointed a free and this was followed by the last score on the night a point form Maryland their second of the second half to leave the final score 2-13 to 0-7.

This was a well-deserved victory by Garrycastle who showed that they are capable of producing quality football when they put their minds to it. There is still room for improvement but this team is heading in the right direction.

GARRYCASTLE; Sean Brennan, Alan Fox, Jack Donohoe, Anthony Larkin, John Gaffey (0-1), Mark McCallon, Gary McCallon (0-1), Doron Harte, James Dolan (0-1), Matty Guiheen, Aidan Browne (0-1), Justin Barrett, Michael Monaghan(0-1, 1f), Conor Cosgrove (1-3, 1 pen 3f), Alex Gardiner (0-1).

SUBS used. T. O’Halloran (1-1) for A. Gardiner HT, E. Monaghan (0-3, 2f) for M. Monaghan (40 mins), M. Curley for A. Fox (40 mins), N Rattigan for A. Larkin, 54mins. Enda Keena for J. Donoghue 59 mins

ACL Division 3 [1 April 2016]

GARRYCASTLE 1-11 MOATE ALL WHITES 2-5

Garrycastle produced an excellent team performance to defeat Moate in Moate on Friday last. Garrycastle were forced to concede home advantage due to a waterlogged pitch but this did not impact on the performance. Eoin Monaghan opened the scoring with a point and this was followed by a Moate point before Noel Galvin pointed to restore the lead for the Green and Red. Moate then caught the Garrycastle defence on the hop and took the lead with a goal after 7 minutes. Points from both side left Moate leading by 2 at this early stage in the match. Garrycastle then produced a series of well taken points in a four minute spell before raising the green flag with a good team move which was finished to the net by Michael Monaghan. A point from Tom O’Halloran left the half time score at 1-8 to 1-2 in favour of Garrycastle.

The home team on the night were first off the mark in the second half and it was O’Halloran again who pointed for Garrycastle to restore the 6 point lead. Moate were right back in the game at the mid-point of the second half when they produced their second goal on the night to leave three points between the sides. It was during this period when Moate started to dominate and produced a series of attacks which were either broken up by the Garrycastle defence or resulted in wides. They reduced the margin to two points before Kenny Dolan responded with a further point. The two teams traded a further point each before Referee Michael Galvin called time.

This was a good solid team performance by Garrycastle with great endeavor and discipline by the players which delivered a well fought and deserved win.

GARRYCASTLE; Shane Mc Enery, Gary Mullery, Tom McHugh, Anthony Larkin, Karl Henson, Seanie O’Donoghue, Frank Farrell, Mark Curley, Justin Barrett, Tom O’Halloran (0-2), Noel Galvin (0-1), Eoin Monaghan (0-2), Michael Monaghan (1-3), Conor Cosgrove(0-2, 1f), Paul Mulvihill

SUBS used. K.Dolan (0-1) for P. Mulvihill HT, B. Kelly for G. Mullery, 40 mins, E. Ward for K. Henson 45 mins, S. Brennan for N. Galvin 50mins.

All County League (Division 6) [25 March 2016]

Garrycastle 2-6 Moate All Whites 2-9

Garrycastle produced a disappointing and patchy performance against a more determined Moate team in their opening game of the Division 6 campaign. The home team was first off the mark with a point from Neale Rattigan and Garrycastle were very lively in the opening 10 minutes. A mistake in the Garrycastle defence resulted in a penalty for the visitors which was expertly converted. Garrycastle responded well to this set back and a well worked move saw Paul Mulvihill palm the ball to the net after being well set up by Tom O’Halloran. Paul Mulvihill added to the tally with another goal shortly afterwards and a Kenny Dolan free had the home team in control of the match at this early stage. Then the momentum of the game shifted as Moate upped their performance and Garrycastle began to lose their way. Moate scored 1-5 in this period without any reply to leave the score at the break at 2-5 to 2-2 to the visitors.

The second half saw a bright start from Garrycastle who scored three points without reply to leave the match level by the 40th minute. The second half followed the pattern of the first half and midway through Moate again took control and produced three further points without reply to consolidate their lead. Garrycastle struggled during this period and their attacking efforts lacked creativity, conviction and co-ordination. Moate then went four points ahead and a late score from a free by Noel Galvin was all Garrycastle had to show for the last 20 minutes of the game.

There is plenty for the team to reflect on after this performance as the work rate and execution of the game plan needs improvement.

GARRYCASTLE: Mark Keenan, Gary Mullery, Tom McHugh, Sean Carey, Emmet Ward, Mark Curley, Frank Farrell, Anthony Larkin, Neale Rattigan (0-1), Jonny McGuire, Noel Galvin (0-3, 2f), Brian Carty, Kenny Dolan(0-1, 1f), Tom O’Halloran (0-1), Paul Mulvihill (2-0)

SUBS used. Peadar Mulvihill for Brian Carty (half-time), Enda Keena for Emmet Ward (50 mins), Bill Kelly for Tom McHugh (55 mins).

ACL Division 3 [19 March 2016]

MULTYFARNHAM 1-11, GARRYCASTLE 3-05

Garrycastle started this game very strongly, and soon had scores on the board with a point from Matthew Guiheen and a goal from Neal Rattigan following an excellent pass from Cathal Mannion. A brace of points from the home team were answered by a point from Paul Mulvihill, before the home team took over and scored 4 points in a row, to take a one point lead into the half-time break. In truth, the home team were unlucky to lead by only a single score, as they kicked a large number of wides.

A number of changes for the second half saw Tom McHugh introduced at full-back, with Anthony Larkin moving to midfield, Neal Rattigan in to the half-forward line and Noel Galvin moving to the edge of the square. The changes paid dividends with a quick point from Paul Mulvihill to bring the sides level. The home team then struck for two points in succession before Garrycastle hit a purple patch, with Conor Cosgrove grabbing two goals in the space of two minutes, and a point from Sean Brennan putting Garrycastle in the lead by four points.

A foul by Sean Carey (which earned him black card) gave a simple free for the home team to convert, and buoyed on from this only a point-blank save by Shane McEnery in the Garrycastle prevented them levelling the game, although they did salvage a point to leave three between the sides.

As full time approached, Garrycastle lost possession in the half-back line, and were punished immediately by an unstoppable shot from the home corner-forward, which arrowed to the top left hand corner of the net, giving Shane no chance. The home team even had a chance to win the game in added time, but again, their shooting left them down.

This was a game where Garrycastle had very good spells (the first 15 minutes in both halves), but also where they faded out for periods, and yielded the initiative to their opponents. Overall, a draw was probably a fair result.

Team:

Shane McEnery, Gary Mullery, Anthony Larkin, Sean Carey, Enda Keena, Mark Curley, Frank Farrell, Justin Barrett, Neal Rattigan (1-0), Matthew Guiheen (0-1), Noel Galvin, Cathal Mannion, Ciaran O’Neill, Conor Cosgrove (2-1), Paul Mulvihill (0-2).

Subs:Tom McHugh for Ciaran O’Neill (half-time), Sean Brennan (0-1) for Paul Mulvihill (45 mins), Brian Leahy for Sean Carey (black card, 50 mins), Brian Carty for Brian Leahy (58 mins), Emmet Ward for Justin Barrett (black card, 60+2 mins).

ACL Division 1 [6 March 2016]

GARRYCASTLE 1-13, ROSEMOUNT 1-08

The seniors collected a second brace of league points from this home fixture against Rosemount last Sunday morning. An early goal finished clinically by Johnny McGuire, following great work by Frank Farrell and Michael Monaghan, gave the home team a good start and they went on to lead by 1-8 to 0-5 at half time.

They held this lead comfortably for most of the second period but some slackness in the last ten minutes led to the concession of a goal and point which could have been costly in other circumstances. Nevertheless, it was another encouraging display on a heavy pitch, with some of the younger players putting down markers for the coming season. Unfortunately, our youngest player Bill Kelly, didn’t get a chance to show his undoubted potential, having to leave the field after sustaining a head injury in the opening minutes. No doubt his will have other opportunities in the coming weeks.

TEAM: Sean Brennan, Gary Mullery, John Gaffey, Anthony Larkin, Frank Farrell, Mark McCallon, Bill Kelly, Mark Curley, Doran Harte, Matthew Guiheen (0-1), Damien Rushe, Justin Barrett (0-1), Michael Monaghan (0-4), Conor Cosgrove (0-4, 2 frees), Johnny McGuire (1-1).

Subs: Gary McCallon (0-2), Tom O'Halloran, Neill Rattigan, Enda Keena, Cathal Mannion and Kenny Dolan.

ACL Division 3 [5 March 2016]

GARRYCASTLE 0-5, THE DOWNS 1-8

Garrycastle’s second team had a bad start to their Division 3 campaign when they were well beaten by The Downs in Garrycastle last Saturday.

Even with the help of the wind in the first half the home team played second fiddle in most areas and trailed by 1-3 to 0-2 at half time. There was some improvement in the second half but the visitors’ lead was never seriously threatened. The Downs showed more teamwork and determination and kicked some good points, especially in the second half. Few Garrycastle players will have happy memories of this performance and a big improvement will be needed in future games.

We wish Stephen McGuire a speedy recovery from the injury that forced him out of action in the second half.

Garrycastle: Shane McEnery, Sean Carey, Tom McHugh, Alan Fox, Brian Carty, Stephen McGuire, Enda Keena, Noel Galvin (0-2, frees), Liam Flynn, Brian McCormack, Alex Gardiner (0-2), Emmet Keena, Kevin Hogan, Tom O’Halloran (0-1), Paul Mulvihill.

Subs: Darragh Brody for Emmet Keena; Conor Molloy for Hogan (injured); Brian Leahy for McGuire (injured) and John O’Shaughnessy for Mulvihill.

ACL Division 1 [27 February 2016]

GARRYCASTLE 0-11, MULLINGAR SHAMROCKS 0-4

The seniors opened their league campaign with a good home win over Mullingar Shamrocks last Saturday. Both sides had a number of absentees, including county players, but Garrycastle will be happy with their overall display. They showed plenty of determination and good teamwork all through the game and deserved their victory. They started positively with quick points from Conor Cosgrove (free) and Damien Rushe, and these two players continued to show great leadership in attack. A further four points from Cosgrove (two from frees) and another from Johnny McGuire gave Garrycastle a lead of 0-7 to 0-3 at half time.

Kenny Dolan gave Garrycastle a good start to the second half with a neat point and another marvellous point from Cosgrove gave his team a six-point cushion. Shamrocks scored their only point of the second half to narrow the gap and almost added a goal but were denied by a great save by Sean Brennan. In the final ten minutes two more Cosgrove points from distance put the seal on a fine performance. Apart from the scorers, Garrycastle had good performances all over the field and all the players contributed to an encouraging victory.

Garrycastle: Sean Brennan, Tom McHugh, John Gaffey, Anthony Larkin, Enda Keena, Mark McCallon, Gary McCallon, Doran Harte, Mark Curley, Matthew Guiheen, Damien Rushe (0-1), Justin Barrett, Johnny McGuire (0-1), Conor Cosgrove (0-8, 3 frees), Kenny Dolan (0-1).

Subs: Liam Flynn (for Guiheen), Ciaran O’Neill (for Dolan), Seanie O’Donoghue (for Rushe) and Frank Farrell (for G. McCallon).

Match Reports Adult

Garrycastle GAA Club, Garrycastle, Athlone, Co. Westmeath, N37 DN28

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