Match Reports Ladies

Minor Girls championship [11 November 2019]

Our minor side put in a fantastic performance over St Marys in the last round of the championship to win by a point. Overall this was a very entertaining game of football with the sides exchanging the lead all through. However a very gritted performance from Garrycastle resulted in a win. Every player gave their best and never gave up in what was a tough physical game. The team extends a speedy recovery to Kate Derwin.

Garrycastle: Sarah Kelly, Faye Hannify, Rebecca Norris, Ciara McGovern, Grace Halligan, Shannon Mulvihill, Ailish Mannion, Sarah Carter, Donnahay Molloy, Elaine McGovern, Kaitlyn Murray, Emma Hynes, Aoife O Brien, Cliodhna Murtagh, Roisin McNamara, Roisin Murphy, Tegan Foley, Erica Reid, and Emily Ruane.

Minor Championship (Girls) [28 October 2019]

Our minors suffered defeat at the hands of St Lomans when we lost out by the minimum. This was a very entertaining game of football and the Garrycastle girls played great football and were unlucky not to have taken the game.

GARRYCASTLE: Sarah Kelly, Faye Hannify, Kate Derwin, Rebecca Norris, Eimer O'Neill, Stephanie O'Neill, Muirin Mulvihill, Ciara McGovern, Grace Halligan, Shannon Mulvihill, Sarah Carter, Donnahay Molloy, Elaine McGovern and Emily Ruane.

Minor Championship Girls [21 October 2019]

Garrycastle 8-10 Mullingar Shamrocks 11-6

Our minor girls played Mullingar away in the first round of the championship. Down a few key players for various reasons left us with only 14. Playing with a strong wind in opening half Garrycastle notched up 4-4 but Mullingar got 2 goals against the run of play in injury time to leave them 4 points behind at the break.

The second half was end to end with each side claiming goals but Mullingar made better use of the wind and claimed the points. Despite the loss Garrycastle worked hard and were unlucky not to have added a few more goals but there were some fine performances throughout the pitch.

Next weekend is round 2 against St Lomans.

Garrycastle: Sarah Kelly, Roisin McNamara, Faye Hannify, Rebecca Norris, Elmer O'Neill, Stephanie O'Neill, Muirin Mulvihill, Ciara McGovern, Grace Halligan, Shannon Mulvihill, Sarah Carter, Emma Hynes , Elaine McGovern and Emily Ruane.

U14 - Westmeath LGFA Under 14 Final (Div C) [12 October 2019]

Garrycastle 5-14 Loughnavalley 2-07

Our under 14 girls finished off a tremendous season with victory in the county final on a sunny Saturday afternoon in Rochfordbridge. Loughnavalley sent a free wide with the first attack of the game but the next five minutes were all Garrycastle as they went on a blitz that saw them score a goal and five unanswered points. Hazel Donegan scored the goal from close range, and points quickly followed from Kacey Mulvihill (two frees), Ella Dowling, Nessa McNamara, and Roísín Murphy. Loughnavalley finally got on the board from a free, but Hazel Donegan responded with a point, and then a long range shot from Tegan Foley sailed all the way to the net. Hazel Donegan followed another Loughnavalley free with a point before Loughnavalley converted a penalty. Garrycastle didn’t let the concession of a goal affect them and another good attack saw Tegan Foley score a fine point. Then came the move of the match which saw the ball transferred all the way up the pitch and after a brilliant catch on the run Kacey Mulvihill played in Ella Dowling who fired a low shot to the net. The sides then exchanged two points apiece, Kacey Mulvihill from a free and Ella Dowling for Garrycastle, before Hazel Donegan scored her second goal to leave the score 4-10 to 1-4 at half time.

The second half was a tighter affair as both teams started to tire in the soft underfoot conditions and Loughnavalley deserve huge credit for never giving up despite the large deficit. Ella Dowling kept the scoreboard ticking over with a free followed by a point from play and then Meliagh McDonagh pounced on a loose ball on the edge of the square before firing high into the net. The game went into a bit of a lull after that as both sides made changes before Loughnavalley enjoyed their best spell of the game scoring a goal and three points while Garrycastle missed some great goal chances at the other end. However, it was Garrycastle who scored the last two points of the game, courtesy of Ella Dowling and, fittingly, Jessica Frawley, who deserved her score after an outstanding individual performance.

Aside from the scorers, the rest of the Garrycastle players are deserving of great praise, starting with both keepers, Kayleigh Clyne, who pulled off a super save midway through the first half, and Gemma Duffy, who was making a welcome return to action after a long lay off with injury. The backs were superb all through, with Emma Kearney and Amy McGovern doing very well in their battle on the right hand side with Loughnavalley’s two most dangerous attackers while Jasmine Molloy put in a powerful display at full back particularly in the second half. Emma Connaughton made some crucial interceptions at different stages while Arlene Devery and Orlaith Lynch rivalled Tegan Foley and Jessica Frawley as the squad’s best performers on the day. Moya McKiernan teamed up well with Kacey Mulvihill on the left hand side of the attack while substitutes Grace Costello and Eve Murphy were full of energy off the bench.

This victory rounded off a super season for these girls who have lost only one competitive match all year, a narrow and controversial loss in the National Feile Division 4 quarter final against eventual winners and Longford champions, Clonguish. Many thanks to Colin Clyne and his back room team of Geraldine Griffith, Noelle O’Donnell, and Anne Kearney, who have put in a huge effort with this talented and enthusiastic squad, starting as far back as mid-January when they held the first of almost eighty training sessions, and ending with this very enjoyable and well deserved win.

The committee would like to thank u14 team manager Colin Clyne and his backroom team of Ger Griffith, Noelle O’Donnell and Anne Davin.

Senior Ladies League Final (Div 1) [14 October 2019]

Milltown 1-11 Garrycastle 1-08

Another busy weekend for the Garrycastle girls. First up was the turn of the senior girls when they lined out for the Division 1 league final to take on Milltown. Playing against a strong breeze in the opening half Garrycastle struggled to settle and Milltown made the most of the conditions and went in at the break 1-8 to 0-4. Garrycastle started the second half in a much more determined fashion and indeed had the lion’s possession but unfortunately did not make this count on the scoreboard. A goal from Sarah Dolan late in the half brought them within 3 and Laura Brennan was denied on the line in the closing minutes and the Castle had to settle for second best on the day on a score line of 1-8 to 1-11.

Garrycastle: Megan Mc Cormack, Jane Henshaw, Aine Lynn, Orla Breatnach, Aoife McCormack, Amanda McCloone, Orla Connaughton, Katie Mc Donald, Laura Brennan, Lauren Kennedy, Sarah Dolan (1-1), Danielle Madden, Kiara Ward (0-1), Lisa Fitzpatrick (0-1), Aoife Connolly (0-4), Grace Halligan (0-1),Annie McCole, Ailish Mannion, Ciara McCormack, Ciara McGovern, Eimer O’Neill, Kate Brennan, Anne Marie Donoghue, Gemma Donoghue, Rebecca Norris, Stephanie O’Neill.

This ends the season for our senior side that made it to the Championship and Division 1 league final and a junior semi-final. Well done to all and the committee would like to Thank Team manager Tom McHugh and his team of Noel Galvin, Paul Madden and Sinead Denby.

Under 16 Girls Championship Final (Division B) [7 October 2019]

Garrycastle 3-8 St Joseph’s 2-10

Garrycastle travelled the short journey to Caulry to take on St Joseph’s in this Final. Having been well beaten by St Joseph’s in the group stages Garrycastle were under no illusion that this would be a tough encounter. Despite heavy rain underfoot conditions in Caulry were excellent. The first half produced great end to end football with both defenses doing well and scores hard to come by and Garrycastle were down by two points at the break. 0-5 to 0-3 from Ella Dowling (0-2) and a free from Shannon Mulvihill.

The second half started at pace and Joseph’s added 2 points before finding the Garrycastle net. From the kick out Garrycastle launched an attack which ended in a tackle on Erica Lowe and a penalty awarded which was duly converted by Shannon Mullvihill. This spurred on the girls and points from Elaine McGovern and Roisin Murphy closed the gap. St Joseph’s didn’t give up and added a goal but further pressure from Garrycastle resulted in 2 goals from the boot of Shannon Mulvihill and a point from Arlene Devery. Garrycastle were now two points up in the dying minutes and a point from Joseph’s in injury time left the minimum between the sides. The Garrycastle girls held firm and every player defended to the last to win out by one point, 3-8 to 2-10.

This was a great performance from Garrycastle who had to dig deep to take the lead from four points down and then to hold onto that lead and claim victory. Sarah Kelly had a great game in goals and made the best of every kick out. Her defense were solid all through and put an end to many attacks with Rosin Mc Namara thwarting a number of goal chances. She was well assisted by Donna Molloy and Emily Ruane with Amy McGovern doing well on her introduction. The half back line of Sarah Carter and Rebecca Norris broke up many attack and sent the ball to the forwards while Eimer O'Neill was consistent all through winning lots of kick outs from both sides and feeding the forwards. The midfield duo of Erica Lowe and Tegan Foley worked hard all through with the latter creating many an attack in the second half. Up front the forwards worked hard for scores and found their momentum in the second half. Great work from Roisin Murphy, Jessica Frawley and Arlene Devery feeding in the ball with Elaine McGovern, Ella Dowling and Shannon Mullvihill making the most of every chance and converting at crucial times. Captain Elaine McGovern accepted the cup on behalf of her team. She commended Joseph’s on a great game and thanked the team management and committee. Congratulations to this bunch of girls many who will still be under 16 next year and to their manager Declan Finn for his commitment and work with this team and to the backroom team if Katrina Jameson and Marie McGovern. Thanks also to Colin Clyne and Ger Griffith for helping out. The team enjoyed refreshments after the game.

GARRYCASTLE: Sarah Kelly, Donna Molloy. Rosin McNamara, Emily Ruane, Eimer O'Neill, Rebecca Norris, Sarah Carter, Erica Lowe, Tegan Foley, Roisin Murphy(0-1) Shannon Mullvihill (3-3), Elaine McGovern (0-1), Jessica Frawley, Ella Dowling (0-2), Arlene Devery (0-1) Shauna Jameson, Ciara Finn, Amy McGovern, Ciara Sheils, Emma Hynes, Aoife Galvin, Emma Connaughton.

U12 Division 4 Final [23 September 2019]

The U12 girls played Killucan in the final in horrendous conditions of rain, thunder and lightning. However the young girls persevered during this and fought the whole way through and performed to their best but losing out to a stronger Killucan outfit. Overall this has been a great season for this young side made up of a number of 9 and 10 year olds. After the game the girls enjoyed a lovely meal compliments of the club. Many thanks to our U12s manager Brian Ganly assisted by John Quilty and to the backroom team and all who helped in every way with this team.

GARRYCASTLE: Lara Ellen Keena McDaid, Eve Murphy, Andrea Doran, Erin McHugh, Mandisa Ní Cluaid, Devanshika Sharma, Rebecca Sleator, Grace Costello, Hazel Donegan, Amelie Henson, Nicole McNamee, Mairead McBride, Siobhan Ní Cluaid, Juliet O'Hara, Hannah Ganly, Trudy Quilty, Olwyn Costello, Doireann Keena, Ella Sweeney, Rionaigh Costello, Amy Carter, Leah Henson, Sophie McNamara.

Fairgreen Ladies Senior Championship Final [21 September 2019]

GARRYCASTLE 2-07 ST. MARYS ROCHFORTBRIDGE 0-14

Our senior side were very disappointed to lose out by the minimum to St Mary’s in the dying minutes of the senior final. Hard luck to this group of girls who worked so hard during the year. Next up for this side is the League final.

GARRYCASTLE: - Megan McCormack, Jane Henshaw, Áine Lynn, Annie McCole, Aoife McCormack, Amanda McCloone, Orla Connaughton, Laura Brennan, Katie McDonnell, Lauren Kennedy, Sarah Dolan, Keira Ward, Lisa Fitzpatrick, Aoife Connolly, Lorraine Duncan, Ciara McManus, Sarah Jane Kelly, Orla Breathnach, Danielle Madden, Ciara McCormack, Kate Brennan, Sarah Denby, Ailish Mannion, Grace Halligan, Anne Marie Donohue, Gemma Donohue, Ciara McGovern, Faye Hanniffy, Rebecca Norris, Nicole O’Connor, Muirin Mulvihill, Aoife O’Brien, Erica Reid, Stephanie O’Neill, Eimear O’Neill.

Under 12 Division 4 Semi-Final (Girls) [16 September 2019]

Garrycastle 3-05 The Downs 1-06

Our under 12 girls put in a fantastic performance in The Downs to beat the home side and earn a well-deserved place in the Division 4 final. In the opening minutes The Downs attacked but Lara Ellen pulled off 2 great saves and this was followed by great defending all through the opening half from Eve, Andrea and Erin with great support from Mandisa and Rebecca. Garrycastle eventually opened their scoresheet with a goal from Hazel and then a second from Siobhan with great help from Juliet, Nicole and Mairead. At the break Garrycastle had a 4 point lead and were going into the second half with the wind to their backs.

Grace and Hazel worked so hard all through the second half and both added to the score line. Davanshka cleared a lot of ball into the forwards. Positive play from Amelie and Tanya put pressure on The Downs and helped increase the lead and Trudy, Doireann, Hannah, Olwyn and Ella won plenty of ball on their introduction. The Garrycastle girls worked passionately in the last 5 minutes making great tackles and defending all over the pitch to hold onto a 5 point lead and win the game.

GARRYCASTLE: Lara Ellen, Eve, Andrea, Erin, Mandisa, Devanshika, Rebecca, Grace, Hazel, Amelie, Tanya, Nicole, Mairead, Siobhan, Julie, Hannah, Trudy, Olwyn, Doireann, Ella.

Senior Ladies Semi-Final [12 September 2019]

GARRYCASTLE 2-14 ST. LOMANS 1-13

The senior girls claimed their place in the county final when they overcame St Lomans at the AIT last Thursday. Garrycastle has the lion’s share of possession in the opening half but were unlucky with a number of shots and were lucky on the verge of half time when Megan Mc Cormack pulled off a great save from the penalty spot and went into the break with a 3 point lead.

Lomans started the half with an instant goal to level matters and went into the lead by 2. The Garrycastle girls didn’t panic and pulled it back with a goal from Aoife Connolly who claimed another later in the half. It was end to end in the last 10 minutes but the girls held firm and won out on a 5 point margin. Overall this was a great performance from Garrycastle where they worked hard all through and deserve their place in the final.

GARRYCASTLE- Megan McCormack, Jane Henshaw, Áine Lynn, Annie McCole, Aoife McCormack, Amanda McCloone, Orla Connaughton, Laura Brennan, Katie McDonnell, Lauren Kennedy, Sarah Dolan, Keira Ward, Lisa Fitzpatrick, Lorraine Duncan, Ciara McManus, Sarah Jane Kelly, Orla Breathnach, Danielle Madden, Aoife Connolly, Ciara McCormack, Kate Brennan, Sarah Denby, Ailish Mannion, Grace Halligan, Anne Marie Donohue, Gemma Donohue, Ciara McGovern, Faye Hanniffy, Rebecca Norris, Nicole O’Connor, Muirin Mulvihill, Aoife O’Brien, Erica Reid.

Under 16 "B" Championship (Girls) [3 September 2019]

Our U16 girls are into the Final of the B Championship after a win over Miltownpass on Tuesday evening last. Garrycastle opened up the game with a point from Captain, Elaine McGovern, this was followed by a point from Shannon Mulvihill. Miltownpass dominated the next patch of play leaving the score level at the half time break. The Garrycastle girls worked hard in the second half. They displayed some great football skills. It was an overall great team effort that saw Garrycastle come out on top on a score line of 2-16 to Miltownpass 2-12

The girls are now due to play the Winners of Caulry and Josephs/Kilbeggan in the Final on weekend of 21/22nd of September venue and time TBC

Team: Sarah Jane Kelly, Emer O'Neill, Elaine McGovern (0-1), Tegan Foley(0-1), Rebecca Norris, Donahay Molloy, Rosin McNumara, Emily Ruane (1-0), Shauna Jameson, Ciara Sheils, Sarah Carter, Shannon Mulvihill (0-7), Emma Hynes, Erika Lowe (0-2), Rosin Murphy (0-3), Jessica Frawley, Jasmine Molloy, Amy Mc Govern, Ciara Finn (1-2), Arlene Devery, Ella Dowling.

Under 14 "C" Championship (Girls) [7 September 2019]

GARRYCASTLE 4-13 SHANDONAGH 5-02

Garrycastle u14s booked their place in the county C championship final following a tough encounter with Shandonagh last Saturday. The Garrycastle girls took the lead in the early stages of the game, thanks to two great goals scored by Hazel Donegan another from Tegan Foley, however 3 Shandonagh goals in quick succession saw the girls just one point ahead at half time.

Garrycastle emerged a different time after the half time break and a Kacey Mulvihill free and a goal from Ella Dowling, marking a return following injury settled Garrycastle nerves. There were some fantastic displays from Jessica Frawley and Tegan Foley in midfield, Arlene Devery in the half back line and free-taker Kacey Mulvihill. Kaleigh Clyne put in a brave performance in goals. Despite a strong battle on the part of Shandonagh who never gave up Garrycastle emerged well-deserved winners on a score line of 4-13 to 5-2.

They will meet the winners of the other semi-final between Loughnavalley/ St. Marys Rochfordbridge at the end of September.

Squad: Kaleigh Clyne, Emma Kearney, Emma Connaughton, Jasmine Molloy, Orlaith Lynch, Arlene Devery, Amy McGovern, Tegan Foley (1-2), Jessica Frawley (0-2), Kacey Mulvihil (0-4), Roísín Murphy (0-1), Nessa McNamara (0-1), Hazel Donegan (2-0), Meliagh McDonagh, Moya McKiernan (0-2), Ella Dowling (1-1), Rihanna Lowe, Grace Costello and Eve Murphy.

Under 12 Girls League [3 September 2019]

Our U12 side put in a great performance against Kilbeggan at home last Tuesday to earn a semifinal spot in their division. Overall the girls played really well with great goalkeeping, the backs defended really well only conceding 2 points. Midfield worked hard all through and the forwards took their scores notching up 6-7.

GARRYCASTLE: Hazel Donegan, Eve Murphy. Andrea Doran. Mairead McBride, Juliet O'Hara, Mandisa Ni Cluid, Devanshka Shirma, Tanya Stephane. Amy Carter, Lara Ellen Keena McDaid, Olwyn Costello, Rionagh Costello, Ella Sweeney, Amelie Henson, Hannah Ganly, Doireann Keena, Rebecca Sleator, Erin McHugh, Trudy Quilty, Grace Costello.

Junior Championship (Semi Final) Ladies [2 September 2019]

Loughnavalley 5-13 Garrycastle 3-06

Our junior girls bowed out of the junior championship on Friday evening last when they lost out to a stronger Loughnavalley side. The opposition started strong and notched up a couple of early goals to leave Garrycastle chasing the game. Despite being behind all through the girls never gave up and fought hard to the end.

Overall the junior championship has been very beneficial to the club and using it as an opportunity to develop players for senior and a number of players have shown they will be well able for the step up.

Garrycastle: Sarah Kelly, Faye Hanniffy. Rebecca Norris, Gemma Donoghue, Muireann Mulvihill, Kate Brennan. Aoife O'Brien. Orla Connaughton. Shannon Mulvihill, Sarah Denby, Ciara Mc Govern, Sarah Carter, Grace Halligan, Ger Griffith, Anne Marie Donoghue, Aoife Connolly, Emer O'Neill, Elaine McGovern, Erica Reid.

Under 16 Championship (Girls) [2 September 2019]

Garrycastle 6-12 Loughnavalley 3-10

Our U16 girls advanced to the Semi Final of the Championship after a win over Loughnavalley last Tuesday evening. This was an evenly contested match however the score dose not reflect this. The Girls had to work hard and keep up the pressure to keep Loughnavalley from scoring.

Garrycastle:- Sarah Jane Kelly, Emer O'Neill, Elaine McGovern (2-0), Ella May Dowling (0-1), Tegan Foley (0-1), Rebecca Norris, Donahay Molloy, Roisin McNamarra, Emily Ruane (2-0), Shauna Jameson, Ciara Sheils (0-1), Sarah Carter, Shannon Mulvihill (2-4), Emma Hynes, Erika Lowe (0-3), Roisin Murphy (0-2), Jessica Frawley, Jasmine Molloy, Amy McGovern and Emma Connaughton.

Junior Championship Quarter Final (Ladies) [25 August 2019]

Garrycastle 2-12 Shandonagh 3-05

Our Junior side had home advantage on Saturday last when they took on Shandonagh in the quarter final of the championship. Garrycastle started with the wind to their backs and made good use of this in the opening minutes and notched up 2 early points. Garrycastle continued to pile on pressure and had 5 points on the board but Shandonagh pulled this back when they goaled. The half closed with Garrycastle leading by 0-9 to 1-2.

The second half opened with Shandonagh taking control and finding the net yet again. This was followed by good end to end football with both sides taking their scores and exchanging the lead. It was all tied with 10 minutes to go but a strong finish from Garrycastle saw them win out by 4 points and earn their place in the semifinal on Friday next 30th August against Loughnavalley. This was a very good performance from this young side with great defending all through, good work at midfield and finishing well up front.

GARRYCASTLE: Cliodhna Murtagh, Rebecca Norris, Gemma Donoghue, Muireann Mulvihill, Kate Brennan, Aoife O'Brien, Orla Connaughton, Shannon Mulvihill, Sarah Denby, Grace Halligan, Sarah Carter, Emer O’Neill, Ger Griffith, Anne Marie Donoghue, Aoife Connolly.

Junior Championship (Ladies) [19 August 2019]

GARRYCASTLE 7-07 St Pauls 4-06

The Junior team put in a very strong second half performance against St Paul’s in a home game on Friday last. Down 1-5 to 0-5 at the break the girls upped their game and pulled away to win out. Full time score Garrycastle 7-07 St Paul’s 4-06. This win should see us through to the quarterfinals to be played next weekend.

Garrycastle: Cliodhna Murtagh, Sarah Kelly, Faye Hanniffy, Rebecca Norris, Aisling Mulvihill, Erica Reid, Aoife O’Brien, Kate Brennan, Shannon Mulvihill, Orla Connaughton, Sarah Denby, Ger Griffith, Gemma Donoghue, Annemarie Donoghue, Eimer O’Neill, Aoife Connolly.

Under 16 Girls [22 July 2019]

Garrycastle 8-11 The Downs 5-4

Garrycastle U16 team travelled to the Downs on Tuesday evening last to play the Downs. This was a hard fought game played with great scores coming from both sides. Garrycastle opened up with the first score but the Downs replied quickly, this was the way throughout the game. The backs were constantly put under pressure by the quick Downs forwards. Rosin McNamara led in fullback position aided by Shauna Jameson and Amy Mc Govern on the wings keeping the Downs forwards from scoring. Sarah Kelly pulled off a great save from the penalty spot. The work rate of the half backs Emily Ruane, Donna Molloy and Rebecca Norris was superb. The duo at centre field, Tegan Foley and Emer O Neill, were excellent. Our captain Elaine McGovern (0-2) led by example and was instrumental in a lot the scores taken. Shannon Mulvihill was a tower of strength and scored an amazing 5 goals and 8 points of the final tally. Ciara Finn showed great determination and skill making great space for our young forwards Ella Dowling (2-0) and Jasmine Molloy (1-0) to put their names on the score sheet.

Overall well deserved win with great work rate by all fourteen players.

GARRYCASTLE:- Sarah Jane Kelly, Emer O Neill, Ciara Finn, Elaine McGovern, Ella May Dowling, Tegan Foley, Rebecca Norris, Donahay Molloy, Rosin McNamara, Emily Ruane, Shauna Jameson, Shannon Mulvihill, Jasmine Molloy and Amy Mc Govern.

Féile Peil na nÓg 2019 (Girls) Report [1 July 2019]

The Garrycastle under-14 Girls squad did their club proud on and off the field at this weekend’s Feile. As Division 2 winners in Westmeath they were placed in a very strong Division 4 which included several teams who had either won or finished runners up in their own county’s Division 1 Final.

However, they exceeded all expectations by winning all three of their group games and then giving eventual champions Clonguish of Longford an awful fright in the cup quarter final before going down to a gallant and somewhat controversial defeat.

After making the bus trip to Mayo to their wonderful host club St Mary’s of Aghamore, Garrycastle faced two matches on Friday evening. Their first opposition were Charlestown Sarsfields who really put it up to the girls for much of the match before Garrycastle eventually pulled away in the second half, with Kacey Mulvihill’s goal a real turning point.

Final score was 1-7 to 0-2.

Scorers: Kacey Mulvihill (1-1), Ella Dowling (0-2), Tegan Foley (0-2), Hazel Donegan (0-1), Nessa McNamara (0-1).

The second game saw the girls up against the hottest of group favourites, Donaghmore-Ashbourne, who had only lost the Meath Division One Feile Final by a point, and featured some players from the Meath team that won the Leinster Final against Dublin earlier in the year, and who had comfortably won their first group game against very good opposition by 17 points. However, in an incredible atmosphere the Garrycastle girls put in probably their best ever performance as a team, winning 3-2 to 1-4 against stunned opposition, who just simply couldn’t cope with the pace and intensity of the Garrycastle players all over the field.

A word has to be given to Hazel Donegan’s critical third goal, an amazing strike on the turn into the top corner from the edge of the square.

Final score was 3-2 to 1-4.

Scorers: Tegan Foley (1-1), Moya McKiernan (1-0), Hazel Donegan (1-0), Ella Dowling (0-1).

The final group match on Saturday morning against hosts St Mary’s was another fiercely enjoyable game. The Aghamore girls were really up for this one and led by a goal early in the second half, but Hazel Donegan was now unstoppable and fired home four goals in an amazing ten minute spell to see Garrycastle home on a score line of 7-3 to 3-3.

Scorers: Hazel Donegan (4-0), Jessica Frawley (2-0) Ella Dowling (1-1), Tegan Foley (0-1), Roisin Murphy (0-1).

Garrycastle then decamped to Oran GAA club in Roscommon on Saturday afternoon to play Longford Division One champions Clonguish Óg in the Cup quarter final. Just like their game the night before, Garrycastle were in blistering form early on and their two goal lead was little reward for their dominance before Clonguish scored from a soft looking penalty right at the stroke of half time. The start of the second half followed the same pattern with Garrycastle the better side but they were not taking their chances and moreover they were also suffering from a succession of very questionable refereeing decisions against them, many of them taking even the opposition by surprise. Gradually the inevitable happened as the fitness of the older Longford girls paid off and they fired home some late scores to prevail against a very tired but very brave Garrycastle side, 4-3 to 2-2.

In fairness to Clonguish, they are clearly a superb team and they proved it the next day as they played some brilliant football on their way to the Division 4 Cup title.

And so the journey ended for this remarkable group of Garrycastle girls who won a lot of supporters from different clubs over the weekend with their brand of non stop attacking play. Every one of the 20 girls played a huge part.

Gemma Duffy made some great saves and driving clearances and her kick outs nearly always found their targets.

The defence were probably the real stars of the tournament - Jasmine Molloy, Emma Connaughton, Kaleigh Clyne and especially Emma Kearney and Arlene Devery were all phenomenal, turning over countless ball, and reading the game superbly. Orlaith Lynch deserves special mention for her display against Donaghmore-Ashbourne while Amy McGovern was a revelation, especially in the quarter final, where she was probably the player of the match.

Captain Tegan Foley, as always, led the team by example with her skill and unlimited determination, driving her players forward at every opportunity and literally running herself into the ground, while her midfield partner Jessica Frawley was probably the squad’s most consistently excellent performer throughout.

Kacey Mulvihill played a key role in both attack and defence getting and setting up some key scores but also sweeping back when called upon. Nessa McNamara started the tournament in great form but unfortunately picked up an injury in the second game and her ability to find space and link play was badly missed in the quarter final. Roisin Murphy worked tirelessly from her centre forward role and while receiving a lot of attention from the opposition managed to set up numerous scores as well as scoring a crucial point at a key stage against St Marys.

At the point of attack Meliagh McDonagh showed up really well in all of the games pressuring defenders into mistakes and was really unlucky not to get on the scoreboard. Ella Dowling was as impressive as ever, scoring in every game, and could well have been a match winner in the quarter final if she had been awarded even a fraction of the frees she looked to have earned. Moya McKiernan’s well taken goal in the Meath match was a huge moment but her work rate and rate of improvement in all the games was even more impressive.

The younger players on the squad, Rihanna Lowe, Juliet O’Hara and Eve Murphy all played their part when called upon, and what they lacked in size they each made up in effort while Hazel Donegan has to receive special plaudits for a stunning performance, scoring five goals and causing all sorts of problems for her markers despite just having returned to the squad this week after being away all year.

Huge credit has to go to manager Colin Clyne for the way he prepares and motivates this group of girls and gets them playing football in the right way. Thanks too to his backroom team Geraldine Griffith, Noelle O’Donnell and Ann Kearney for all of their hard work, to David and Marie Mc Govern for all their help especially with fundraising and to the many parents, relatives and supporters who travelled all the way to Mayo to provide such great support. A special word of thanks to Paddy Mulvihill for his inspiring work with the girls over the weekend.

And last but not least, it is very difficult to put into words how wonderful as hosts the people from St Marys, Aghamore were. They really could not have done any more to make this weekend a wonderful memory for the girls. Their kindness and hospitality, will never be forgotten.

Senior League (Div 3) Ladies [1 July 2019]

GARRRYCASTLE 4-11 St Josephs 4-09

Our girls travelled over to Streamstown on what was a very hot Saturday afternoon to meet St Joseph’s in the 4th round of the Division 3 League. Garrycastle got off to a good start and were leading by 7pts at half time but St Joseph’s came back fighting in the 2nd half. Garrycastle battled on in the extreme heat & put in a massive effort that ensured they secured the win, with a full time score line of 4-09 to 4-11.

GARRYCASTLE: Megan McCormack, Faye Hanniffy, Rebecca Norris, Ciara McCormack, Muirin Mulvihill, Gemma Donohue, Danielle Madden, Katie McDonnell, Anne-Marie Donohue, Kiera Ward, Stephanie O’Neill, Sarah Jane Kelly, Éimer O’Neill.

Next up for the ladies will be the 1st round of the Junior Championship v Athlone on Thur 4th July @ 7.30pm & our Senior Ladies meet Milltown on Sunday 7th July @ 12 noon in the 2nd round of the Senior Championship. Both games take place in Garrycastle.

Ladies Senior League (Div 1) [24 June 2019]

GARRYCASTLE 1-16 MULLINGAR SHAMROCKS 0-04

Garrycastle Ladies had a home game against Mullingar Shamrocks in the 4th Round of the Division 1 League last Sunday morning. For a report of this game go to the "Match Report" section of this website. A minutes silence was held before throw in, in respect of the recent passing of Club Supporter, Johnny Nally. On what was a wet miserable morning, the Garrycastle players put in a good strong performance from the outset & played with conviction right to the final whistle, to secure a good win with a final scoreline of 1-16 to 0-4.

GARRYCASTLE: Megan McCormack, Annie McCole, Áine Lynn, Jane Henshaw, Ailish Mannion, Orla Breathnach, Katie McDonnell, Aoife McCormack, Lauren Kennedy, Danielle Madden, Aoife Dolan, Ciara McGovern, Lorraine Duncan, Kiera Ward, Lisa Fitzpatrick, Aoife Connolly, Ciara McCormack, Ciara McManus, Muirin Mulvihill, Rebecca Norris, Kate Brennan, Anne Marie Donohue, Faye Hanniffy.

Under 14 Girls [3 June 2019]

Garrycastle under 14 Girls made it 5 wins from 5 league games with a strong performance against local rivals Athlone. Athlone got off to a very promising start but gradually Garrycastle’s strong support play and off the ball running began to create scores and they were able to go in at half time with a comfortable lead.

The second half was a much more even affair with Athlone putting in a great effort but Garrycastle responded well when they needed to and were able to maintain their advantage to the end. While there were excellent displays in attack and in midfield, with Jessica Frawley and Nessa McNamara doing particularly well, this was the squad’s best defensive performance of the season with each of the backs putting in great displays in front of keeper Gemma Duffy. Emma Connaughton and Jasmine Molloy continually caught the eye with some great tackles and clearances, while Orlaith Lynch and Emma Kearney never gave their markers a moment’s peace. However, the outstanding players throughout were half backs Amy McGovern and Arlene Devery, neither put a foot wrong all game.

Garrycastle Squad: Gemma Duffy, Emma Connaughton, Jasmine Molloy, Emma Kearney, Orlaith Lynch, Arlene Devery (1-1), Amy McGovern, Jessica Frawley (0-3), Tegan Foley (1-1), Moya McKiernan (1-0), Kayleigh Clyne, Róisín Murphy (3-2), Nessa McNamara (0-1), Meliagh McDonagh (1-0), Ella Dowling (2-4), Grace Costello (0-1), Juliet O’Hara, Eve Murphy.

Senior Championship - Ladies [20 May 2019]

GARRYCASTLE 3-07, THE DOWNS 2-05

Our senior girls played The Downs in the first round of the championship in Garrycastle in perfect conditions. Garrycastle were eventual winners finishing strong to take the points on a score line of 3-7 to 2-5. The girls worked hard all through and dug deep when down to 14 to get ahead and then maintained the lead.

GARRYCASTLE:

Megan McCormack, Amanda McCloone, Aine Lynn, Ciara McCormack, Ailish Mannion, Aoife McCormack, Orla Breatnach, Laura Brennan, Katie McDonald, Sarah Dolan, Lorraine Duncan, Danielle Madden, Aoife Dolan, Lisa Fitzpatrick, Ciara McManus, Annie McCole, Stephanie O’ Neill.

Under 14 League (Div 2) Girls [20 May 2019]

Garrycastle u14 Girls had another good win during the week in their Division 2 league match against St. Marys, Rochfortbridge. The foundation was laid in a very strong first half performance with some excellent play, particularly from Tegan Foley and Jessica Frawley in midfield and Kacey Mulvihill, Ella Dowling and Róisín Murphy in the forwards. The backs had a lot more to do in a very competitive second half but strong performances from Arlene Devery and Amy McGovern in the half back line, Emma Kearney in corner back, and Gemma Duffy in goals managed to limit scoring opportunities for the opposition.

GARRYCASTLE Squad: Gemma Duffy, Emma Kearney, Orlaith Lynch, Emma Connaughton, Amy McGovern, Arlene Devery (0-1),Jasmine Molloy, Jessica Frawley, Tegan Foley (0-2), Moya McKiernan(0-1), Róisín Murphy (1-2), Kacey Mulvihill (2-0), Kaya O’Halloran (0-1), Ella Dowling (1-4), Nessa McNamara, Rihanna Lowe, Grace Costello and Eve Murphy.

U16 Championship (Girls) [20 May 2019]

Garrycastle 9-15 Mullingar Shamrocks 1-2

Our U16’s travelled to Mullingar on Tuesday evening last to play Mullingar Shamrocks in the Championship. This was somewhat of a one sided affair with Shannon Mulvihill opening the score with a goal, with a quick pass from Ciara Sheils. This was followed by a point by Erika Lowe. The Garrycastle girls continued to dominate with Rebecca Norris giving good passes that led to scores from Ella Dowling and Ciara Finn. Tegan Foley was outstanding in her mid-field role. Donna Molloy flourished in her half back position. Eimear O Neill and Emily Ruane worked well not allowing the ball back to the Shamrock forwards. Rosin McNamara was a power of strength at full back and this left things easy for Sarah Kelly in goals. There were some great displays of football from Elaine McGovern, Sarah Carter and Rosin Murphy. Emma Hynes added to the score with a point from an awkward angle. When introduced Shauna Jameson played her defensive role. Overall the girls should be proud of their display, great teamwork with brilliant scores.

The team will be taking a break from Championship football until the end of June to facilitate the Junior cert examinations. Good luck to all.

Training will continue however one night (Monday) for all those not partaking in exams.

Garrycastle: Sarah Jane Kelly, Rosin McNamara, Ciara Sheils 1-0, Rebecca Norris, Shauna Jameson, Emer O Neill, Donna Molloy, Emily Ruane, Elaine McGovern 2-3, Sarah Carter, Ella May Dowling 0-2, Erika Lowe 0-3, Tegan Foley, Shannon Mulvihill 3-2, Rosin Murphy 2-1, Ciara Finn 1-3, Emma Hynes 0-1.

Under 16 Girls [13 May 2019]

Garrycastle 8-11 Loughnavalley 8-10

Our U16’s played Loughnavalley in a high scoring game on Tuesday evening last in Garrycastle. Loughnavalley started off very strong with a goal and 4 points before Garrycastle put a score up. Garrycastle were behind at the half time mark.

After the break the Garrycastle girls dug deep and worked hard to win the game by the narrowest of margins. There were some great displays of football from our full back Rosin McNamara, Shannon Mulvihill, Tegan Foley and Elaine Mc Govern. Overall it was a great team effort.

GARRYCASTLE:- Sarah Jane Kelly, Rosin McNamara, Ciara Sheila, Shauna Jameson, Emer O’Neill, Donna Molloy, Elaine McGovern (1-2), Sarah Carter, Ella May Dowling (0-1), Erika Lowe (1-1), Tegan Foley, Shannon Mulvihill (6-3), Aoife Galvin, Roisin Murphy, Ciara Finn (0-4), Emma Hynes, Jessica Frawley, Amy McGovern.

Under 14 Girls [6 May 2019]

Garrycastle 5-10 Loughnavalley 4-01

Garrycastle and Loughnavalley clashed for the third time in as many weeks with Garrycastle again coming out on top. Ella Dowling opened the scoring almost straight from the throw in with a good point followed quickly by an excellent goal from Tegan Foley. Loughnavalley responded with a point which was met by an Ella Dowling goal and a point followed by further scores from Kaya O’Halloran and Grace Costello. Loughnavalley were moving the ball well without getting the scores their play deserved but they finally managed to break through and score a goal. Garrycastle responded well again with a goal from Moya McKiernan and points from Roisin Murphy and Ella Dowling to leave the score 3-6 to 1-1 at half time.

Loughnavalley got off a flying start in the second half scoring two quick goals and were only denied another by a brilliant save from Kayleigh Clyne. However, Garrycastle put the result beyond doubt thanks to a goal and a point apiece from Tegan and Ella before Loughnavalley again found the back of the net. Ella scored the last two points to leave a final score line of 5-10 to 4-1 in favour of Garrycastle. Good team performance with Amy McGovern and Jessica Frawley also deserving a mention.

GARRYCASTLE: Kaleigh Clyne, Emma Kearney, Emma Connaughton, Orlaith Lynch, Jasmine Molloy, Amy McGovern, Arlene Devery, Jessica Frawley, Tegan Foley (2-1), Roísín Murphy (0-1), Ella Dowling (2-6), Nessa McNamara, Grace Costello (0-1), Moya McKiernan (1-0), Kaya O’Halloran (0-1).

Ladies League, Div. 1 [29 April 2019]

GARRYCASTLE 4-07, MILLTOWN 2-16

Our seniors ladies faced Milltown in the league at home on Sunday in what was a very entertaining game of football. It was all square at the break and both sides exchanged scores throughout the second half but Milltown notched a few late points to win out.

Final score Garrycastle 4-07, Milltown 2-16.

Ladies League (Div 1) [22 April 2019]

Garrycastle travelled to Lomans for 2nd round of the league on a very warm and clammy day. From the start the girls in green and red dictated the game and by the break had notched up 3-10 despite missing numerous chances. Aine Lynn swept up at full back and was well supported by her defenders who cleaned up and delivered good ball forward. Midfield worked hard all through and forwards worked cohesively to get the scores on the board. A number of our younger players performed very well when called on and Garrycastle won out comprehensive winners.

GARRYCASTLE: Megan Mc Cormack. Anne McCole. Aine Lynn. Orla Breatnach. Laura Brennan. Katie Mc Donald. Danielle Madden. Aoife Mc Cormack. Lauren Kennedy. Sarah Dolan, Lorraine Duncan. Aoife Dolan. Ciara McManus. Lisa Fitzpatrick, Stephanie ONeill. Nicole O Connor. Ciara Mc Govern. Ailish Mannion. Amanda McClune. Muireann Mulvihill. Rebecca Norris. Ciara Mc Cormack, Jane Henshaw.

Under 14 Girls Feile (Div 2) Final [16 April 2019]

GARRYCASTLE 2-8 LOUGHNAVALLEY 1-2

U14 - Garrycastle u14 girls were crowned Feile Div 2 champions on Tuesday evening in Rosemount thanks to a hard fought 2-8 to 1-2 victory over a very determined Loughnavalley side. Loughnavalley were the first to every ball in the early stages and were unlucky not to have more than just the one point to show for their dominance. Garrycastle responded well though with a neatly taken goal from Roisin Murphy, and Ella Dowling then won a free which she converted herself to put them ahead. Loughnavalley worked a very good goal themselves before the sides exchanged points to leave the sides level at the break, Roisin Murphy with the Garrycastle score.

With the breeze now behind them, Garrycastle made a great start to the second half. Ella Dowling scored a good point followed by Meliagh McDonagh who converted a free after she was fouled when breaking through. Ella Dowling then scored a crucial second goal with a powerful shot from a twenty metre free, and followed that up with two more points before Kacey Mulvihill got on the end of a good move to slot over. Fittingly, Ella Dowling got the final score of the game with a lovely point from distance. Loughnavalley did everything they could to get back in the game but were denied by some brilliant defending in front of Gemma Duffy who was solid throughout. Apart from the girls mentioned there were great performances all over the field starting with the full back line of Emma Kearney, Emma Connaughton and Kayleigh Clyne who put up a brick wall in the second half. The half back line of Orlaith Lynch, Jasmine Molloy and Amy McGovern were good throughout but excelled after the break, while the tireless Tegan Foley played a captain’s part in midfield, where she got great support from Arlene Devery, with both players seeming to cover every blade of grass. Moya McKiernan and Nessa McNamara did not get on the scoresheet themselves but made great use of space and played their part in several scores. Grace Costello and Rihanna Lowe added extra legs off the bench in the second half and helped keep the pressure on a tiring Loughnavalley defence. Great teamwork by all of the girls helped minimise the loss of the absent Jessica Frawley, who had played a huge part in getting her team to the final. The girls now look forward to the National Feile Peil na nOg tournament which will be played from the 28th to the 30th June.

U14 Girls (Feile) [14 April 2019]

Garrycastle U14s girls had a very successful outing in Pairc Chiarain last Sunday when they overcame opposition from Loughnavalley, Athlone, Ballycomoyle and Shandonagh to qualify for the Division 2 Feile final.

Garrycastle Squad: Gemma Duffy, Emma Connaughton, Emma Kearney, Orlaith Lynch, Jasmine Molloy, Arlene Devery, Kayleigh Clyne, Rihanna Lowe, Grace Costello, Roísín Murphy, Jessica Frawley, Tegan Foley, Kacey Mulvihill, Ella-May Dowling, Amy McGovern, Meliagh McDonagh, Nessa McNamara and Moya McKiernan.

Under-14 Girls League [2 April 2019]

The Garrycastle under-14 girls started off their league campaign with a decisive win over Tyrrellspass last Thursday.

The Garrycastle girls showed great determination and excellent teamwork and accumulated an impressive tally of scores.

The newly formed Tyrrellspass team battled hard but it was not to be their day.

Team:

Gemma Duffy, Emma Kearney, Jasmine Molloy (0-2), Meliagh McDonagh (0-2), Orlaith Lynch (0-1), Jessica Frawley, Kaleigh Clyne, Tegan Foley (1-2), Arlene Devery, Amy McGovern (1-1), Roísín Murphy (2-4), Kacey Mulvihill (1-1),

Moya McKiernan (0-1), Ella-May Dowling (2-2), Nessa McNamara and Devanshika Sharma.

Under-16 Girls League [2 April 2019]

MILLTOWN 2-07, GARRYCASTLE 3-05

The Garrycastle Under-16 girls travelled to Milltown on Tuesday April 2nd last to play their first league game of the season. This was a hard fought game played in winter like conditions. The Garrycastle girls showed great determination and skill and well deserved to come out on top at the final whistle.

Team:

Sarah Jane Kelly, Roisin Murphy, Ciara Shiels, Emer O'Neill, Ciara Finn, Elaine McGovern, Sarah Carter, Ella May Dowling, Erika Lowe 0-1, Tegan Foley, Chloe Fitzgerald, Rebecca Norris, Aoife Galvin, Donahay Molloy, Roisin McNamara, Emily Ruane

Senior League (Div 1) Ladies [23 March 2019]

THE DOWNS 0-12, GARRYCASTLE 5-07

Our senior ladies travelled to The Downs on Saturday last to play the 1st round of the Division 1 league and claimed the points.

This was a great start to the league with some great display of football and great determination all through. It was level pegging at the break but the Garrycastle girls finished strong with vital scores towards the end to finish on a score-line of 5-7 to 0-12. A number of younger players made their debut in this game and performed very well supported by the senior players.

GARRYCASTLE: Megan McCormack, Ailish Mannion, Áine Lynn, Annie McCole, Danielle Madden, Katie McDonald, Orla Breathnach, Aoife McCormack, Lauren Kennedy, Muirin Mulvihill, Lorraine Duncan, Nicole O’Connor, Stephanie O’Neill, Ciara McManus, Niamh Mc Manus, Ciara Mc Govern, Annemarie Donoghue, Jemma Donoghue, Faye Hanniffy, Aoife Dolan, Amanda McClune, Emer Dolan, Ciara McCormack.

Senior Ladies League (Div 3) [10 March 2019]

Garrycastle 4-8 Mullingar Shamrocks 0-7

The ladies season kicked off on Sunday with our Division 3 side playing an away game against Mullingar. Garrycastle faced a stiff breeze in the first half so needed to be firm in defence and this they did with Megan Mc Cormack controlling fullback and Rebecca Norris pulling off fine saves when called on. Orla Breathnach made welcome return and was a great support to our young defenders who stood firm and held Mullingar to 0-5 points in the first half. With Lisa Fitzpatrick and Katie Mc Donald working extremely hard and pushing forward Ciara Mc Manus found the net to leave us 2points down at the break.

With the wind to our backs Garrycastle put on the pressure early in the second half and AnneMarie Donoghue made no mistake finding the net to edge us ahead. From here on Garrycastle dominated, the defence held well and made great runs and fed well into the forwards who displayed great skills and worked the play and took their scores to win out comfortably.

GARRYCASTLE: Rebecca Norris, Faye Hanniffy, Megan McCormack, Muirin Mulvihill, Orla Breathnach, Kate Brennan, Ailish Mannion, Lisa Fitzpatrick, Katie McDonald, Sarah Denby, Ciara McManus, Nicole O’Connor, Stephanie O’Neill, Anne Marie Donoghue, Emer O’Neill, Niamh McManus, Aoife O’Brien, Ciara McGovern.