[2024-10-13]

Garrycastle 3-06, St. Loman’s Mullingar 3-12

The Garrycastle Under-16 Girls (Red) team made the journey to Shandonagh on Sunday to take on St. Loman’s Mullingar in the Division 1 final. Unfortunately the result did not go the way of the Garrycastle girls on this occasion, but they can reflect on an excellent year’s football, and should take great pride in what they have achieved this year. Well done Girls! The whole club is very proud of you!

[2024-10-06]

Garrycastle 3-05, St. Loman’s Mullingar 4-07

After a great championship campaign, the Under-16 girls team just lost out to St. Loman’s Mullingar in the Division 4 final played in Milltown on Sunday afternoon. This great group of players have much to be proud of in their football exploits in 2024, and the final loss should not define their season. Well done Girls! The whole club is very proud of you!

[2024-09-22]

Well done to our Red and Green under-16 Girls teams who will both contest county finals in the coming weeks. The Red team won out against a strong Moate All Whites side on Tuesday last, while the Green team secured a win over Multyfarnham last week in their semi-final. 

Both teams will face St. Lomans Mullingar in their respective finals; the time and date for these will be published on the club website and social media channels once available. Well done girls.

[2024-08-27]

Garrycastle 2-14, St. Lomans Mullingar 0-06

[2024-08-13]

Garrycastle 8-5, Moate All-Whites 0-9

The final scoreline is no reflection of a very well contested game with Garrycastle’s ability to score goals being the real difference between the two sides.  As Moate were missing a number of regulars, the game was played as a 13 a side match, and the wider space available to the players meant this was a free flowing entertaining spectacle with plenty of good attacking football on show.  Although Garrycastle had a strong wind behind them in the first half, Moate started the better side, but once Garrycastle got into the game and started to work the ball into the forward line, they began to power ahead with Erin McHugh causing huge damage to the Moate defence with her powerful running and finishing. The game was essentially over as a contest at half time, which was very harsh on the Moate team who had played some nice football with little to show for it on the scoreboard.  Poor finishing and decision making saw the scores dry up for Garrycastle against the wind in the second half, leaving them with plenty to work on for future games, while at the other end Moate put over some well worked points that their build up play deserved. The result leaves Garrycastle with three wins from their three games to date in the division, and a home semi-final almost guaranteed. While Erin McHugh with a superb six goal haul was undoubtedly player of the match she was run a close second by Orla Turner, who put in a brilliant defensive performance. Eve Murphy also stood out, particularly in the first half, with Olivia Collins, Libby McHugh and the two Kellys, Aislinn and Cadhla, also doing very well. 

Squad:  Ellen Parker, Cadhla Kelly, Orla Turner, Rebecca Sleator, Libby McHugh, Doireann Keena, Aislinn Kelly (0-2), Jane Byrne, Eve Murphy, Jola Kearney, Olivia Collins (2-0), Erin McHugh (6-1), Mandisa Ni Chluaid (0-2), Ella Sweeney (0-1), Trudy Quilty, Roisin Ni Chluaid, Ellianna McManus, Rionagh Costello, Siobhan Ni Chluaid, Sarah Condon, Aoife McHugh, Amy Carter.

[2024-07-23]

Garrycastle 3-08, Goldsmith Girls 0-09

The Garrycastle u16 Reds made it two wins from two in the Division One championship on Tuesday evening. It was a well deserved win in the end although Goldsmiths had some very skilful players in their team and they caused plenty of problems over the hour and especially in the first half.

Garrycastle got off to great start with a well taken goal from Siobhan Ni Chluaid followed by a point from Aislinn Kelly. Goldsmiths responded with two points from the excellent Charleigh Seery and the same player exchanged further points with Aislinn Kelly before Ella Sweeney restored the one goal cushion with a lovely score off her left foot. Charleigh Seery then scored her fourth point of the half which could just as easily been a goal before Olivia Collins conjured up a brilliant individual goal for Garrycastle. Goldsmiths finished off the first half scoring with a long range free from Erica Higgins to leave it 2-03 to 0-05 at the break.

Garrycastle were a much improved side in the second but although they dominated possession and were camped in the opposition 45 for long spells they struggled to take their scores against a brave Goldsmiths defence. Points from Aislinn Kelly, Amelie Henson, Siobhan Ni Chluaid and Hannah Ganly stretched their lead before Goldsmiths put over their first score of the half. The crucial goal Garrycastle needed to make the game safe finally arrived from the boot of Hannah Ganly ten minutes from time. In fairness to Goldsmiths they tacked on three good points near the end with Mia Russell very prominent before Jane Byrne rounded off the scoring for Garrycastle with a point her second half performance deserved. 

With several players from the regular squad missing this was a solid Garrycastle display overall with every player having good moments. Special mention due for the performances of Olivia Collins, Hannah Ganly, Amelie Henson and the two Kellys but Rebecca Sleator was the standout Garrycastle player on the day. 

Squad: Ellen Parker, Sarah Condon, Cadhla Kelly, Amy Carter, Ellianna McManus, Rebecca Sleator, Rionagh Costello, Aislinn Kelly (0-03), Amelie Henson (0-01), Hannah Ganly (1-01), Jane Byrne (0-01), Olivia Collins (1-00), Roisin Ni Chluaid, Siobhan Ni Chluaid (1-01), Ella Sweeney (0-01), Erin McHugh, Alex Murphy, Aisling Gormley, Lily Duffy, Aoife McHugh

[2024-06-29]

On Saturday last, June 29th, our Under-15 girls travelled to the Connacht Centre of Excellence, in Claremorris Co. Mayo to participate in the National division one Féile Peile na nÓg. 

Garrycastle, as Westmeath champions, were paired with the Mayo, Kerry and Down champions in the group stages. Garrycastle started with a hard-fought draw against the Co. Down champions from Carryduff. They then took on the Co. Kerry champions, Castleisland Desmonds, losing narrowly in that game before also suffering a narrow loss to the Co. Mayo champions from Hollymount in the final group game. In both of the lost games there was very little in it, and a favourable bounce of the ball could have made all the difference.

So, once the group stages were complete, we qualified for the Division 1 Shield Semi Final, where we were drawn against a strong Kilmacud Crokes team who were the champions of Dublin. 

From the start of this game, all things seemed to fall into place. They girls found a new energy, and the passes and kicks were all executed with great speed and accuracy. Libby McHugh, Ellen Parker and Orla Turner were solid in defence and kept the oppositions score to a minimum. Erin McHugh, Amelie Henson and Olivia Collins kept the scoreboard ticking over and the girls ran out comfortable winners in the end. 

So, with that great win under their belts, it was only the Cork champions from Ballincollig that stood in the way of the girls and a Division 1 Shield victory. In what was always going to be a tight and nervous game, our girls were unlucky not to build a big lead in the first half with a few near misses and crossbars keeping the game in the balance. Erin McHugh scored a huge goal and points from Ella Sweeney, Hannah Ganly and Olivia Collins gave us a 5 point lead going into the final 5 minutes. 

Ballincollig didn’t give up, however, and threw everything at us in the closing stages, and but for the heroics of Ellen Parker in goals, they would have caught us. They didn’t however, and Garrycastle were crowned Division 1 Shield winners for 2024. 

This was an absolutely fantastic achievement for this great bunch of girls, and they made their club and county proud. There were great celebrations at the final whistle in Co. Mayo, and indeed later on that evening when they arrived home to Garrycastle.

Squad: Ellen Parker, Orla Turner, Amy Carter, Doireann Keena, Rionagh Costello, Libby McHugh, Rebecca Sleator, Jane Byrne, Amelie Henson, Hannah Ganly, Jola Kearney, Erin McHugh, Trudy Quilty, Ella Sweeney, Wiktoria Wziatek, Olivia Collins, Ellianna McManus, Lily Duffy, Alanna Gaffey, Aoife McHugh, Sarah Condon, Alex Murphy, Hayley Murphy.

Many thanks to our generous sponsors for Féile - Lidl, Rotofab Ltd; Caulfield Industrial; Zenith Adhesive Components and Supermacs Moate.

[2024-05-07]

Garrycastle 7-09, Coralstown/Kinnegad 0-04

It was a very good week for the under-16 girls with both teams in league action. The Red team travelled to play Coralstown-Kinnegad in a Division One clash on Tuesday evening. After a slow start, Garrycastle gradually got into the game and their ability to work goals put them into a comfortable but slightly flattering lead at half time. A young but talented Coralstown-Kinnegad side visibly tired in a second half where Garrycastle dominated possession and territory and they eased to a good win in the end. Plenty of solid performances on the winning side but Jane Byrne, Orla Turner and Roisin Ni Chluaid all deserve mention for their second half displays. 

[2024-05-11]

Garrycastle 7-03, St. Pauls 2-10

It was the turn of the Green squad for a Division 5 clash on a sweltering Saturday afternoon as they made the long trek to Clonmellon to play St Paul’s Delvin. With a lot of players unavailable for a variety of reasons, Garrycastle travelled with only 13 players but each of the girls that travelled put in a huge shift over the course of the game to emerge deserving winners on a scoreline of 7-3 to 2-10. Lara Ellen Keena scored four well taken goals and she was followed closely in the scoring stakes by Olivia Collins (3-2) with the last point coming from Isabella Hogan. On a day where every player emerged with credit, Doireann Keena and Trudy Quilty put in stand out performances while Hannah Ganly worked tirelessly in midfield. Drew Dunphy was excellent in her first game at this age group.

[2024-04-28]

Huge congratulations to our Westmeath Division 1 LGFA Féile Champions!

Well done to all our Under-15 girls that played in Division 1 of Westmeath Féile over the weekend. Each girl played their part throughout and wore the jersey with pride. 

On day 1, Garrycastle topped their group with wins against Killucan and Ballycomoyle. A semi final with St. Loman's was the final game on Saturday with Garrycastle running out winners on a scoreline of 3-05 to 0-02.

All roads led to Rochfortbridge on Sunday where the girls met a very strong Cill Óige team. A very close game ended with a 4-07 to 1-04 win for Garrycastle. Scorers in final: Ella Sweeney (1-03), Amelie Henson (2-0), Erin McHugh (1-02, 2f), Hannah Ganly (0-02)

Well done to each and every girl who battled so hard throughout out this tournament. 

Team: Olivia Collins, Alex Murphy, Hayley Murphy, Rionagh Costello, Ellianna McManus, Jola Kearney, Ellen Parker, Sarah Condon, Lily Duffy, Orla Turner, Aisling Gormley, Doireann Keena, Ella Sweeney, Aoife McHugh, Wiktoria Wziatek, Erin McHugh, Libby McHugh, Hannah Ganly, Amelie Henson, Jane Byrne, Rebecca Sleator, Alanna Gaffey, Amy Carter, Trudy Quilty.

[2024-05-04]

The Garrycastle under-16 Greens played host to a reduced Shandonagh side with a few of their regular players missing last Saturday. Garrycastle used our large squad on the day to run out comfortable winners with some girls making their first appearance for the club which was great to see. We wish a speedy recovery to Freya Shine who had an unfortunate injury on the day. 

[2024-04-23]

Garrycastle 4-09, St. Lomans 6-10

A very good Garrycastle performance in their first league match against the competition favourites. Despite playing well the girls went in at half time trailing by 5-04 to 1-04 with the bulk of the St. Lomans scores coming in a five minute spell. 

Garrycastle were on top for much of the second half and had they taken their chances they could well have won the game, with the woodwork denying them on five separate occasions. 

Overall a very encouraging performance to start the campaign. Unfortunately, there were a couple of injuries sustained by St. Lomans players during the game and everyone wishes the players involved a speedy recovery. 

Garrycastle: Siobhan Ni Chluaid, Libby McHugh, Cadhla Kelly, Orla Turner, Jane Byrne, Rebecca Sleator, Rionagh Costello, Aislinn Kelly (0-4, 1f), Amelie Henson (2-0), Eve Murphy, Hannah Murray, Hannah Ganly, Mandisa Ni Chluaid (0-1), Erin McHugh (1-3, 1f), Ella Sweeney (0-1). Subs (all used): Ellen Parker, Amy Carter, Alanna Gaffey, Roisin Ni Chluaid, Wiktoria Wziatek (1-0).

Under-16 Div. 1 Final:  St. Lomans 6-12, Garrycastle 3-08

A superb St. Lomans side justified their billing as the hottest of hot favourites and won their club their third under-16 Division 1 title in a row but that doesn’t tell the full story of this final. St. Lomans hosted the game in Lakepoint Park after winning the coin toss for home advantage when the poor weather made it difficult to find a neutral venue. Garrycastle were then dealt a huge blow shortly before throw in when key defender Erin McHugh was ruled out.

However, they started well and enjoyed plenty of possession in the first ten minutes but poor handling when it counted cost them, whereas St. Lomans were clinical at the other end, with dynamic and skilful forwards like the excellent Katie Kilmurray, in particular, and Grainne Cleary, causing a lot of problems. By the fifteen minute mark Garrycastle were still playing reasonably well but were trailing by two goals and starting to struggle just a little when real disaster struck. Two of their most prominent forwards, Mandisa Ni Chluaid and Hannah Murray, collided accidentally with the result that both had to be taken from the field of play. With the Garrycastle players visibly upset and still reeling St. Lomans took complete control after that and went in at half time leading by 4-07 to 0-02. 

Nobody would have blamed the Garrycastle players if their heads were to go down completely but they showed extraordinary character and went on to put in an amazing second half. An Eve Murphy goal gave the team a real bounce and this was followed shortly afterwards by another goal from Amelie Henson. Players like Jola Kearney were now not only winning their own ball but were turning over the opposition at will and the Garrycastle half back line started to dominate with the likes of Rionagh Costello and Rebecca Sleator cleaning up possession and driving forward. Further back, two young corner backs in Orla Turner and Amy Carter impressed hugely with their calmness under pressure. Hazel Donegan had been relatively contained in the first half, but she now took complete control of the central areas where she got great support from both Amelie Henson and Aislinn Kelly and Chanelle Nestor started proving her worth as a clever link player. Had Garrycastle taken their points instead of going for goals during this period who knows what might have happened, but St Lomans were still able to show their class and they worked two brilliant goals and a couple of points in transition that wouldn’t have looked out of place in a Senior final and that helped them keep their distance. The tireless Amelie Henson responded with a superb individual goal and a point that should be a candidate for score of the season while Hazel Donegan turned on the style herself with some beautiful late scores that were the least her overall performance deserved, and she must have vied with Katie Killmurray for player of the match. The game ended with a jubilant St. Lomans side expressing relief despite the final margin and with Garrycastle taking huge encouragement from their ability to match up against top class opponents. 

These two clubs have now faced each other in last year’s under-14 Division One and under-14 Division Four Finals, and this year’s under-14 Division One, under-15 Division One Féile and under-16 Division One Finals. St. Lomans certainly have the edge at the older age group with Garrycastle just edging the younger one, but on this performance Garrycastle have to feel they can at least be competitive against one of the best underage sides in ladies football and if they can manage the difficult task of maintaining their progression, they have to think of a bright future ahead. 

This is also a young side with all the players who featured in this game with the sole exception of Hazel Donegan having at least one more year at this age group. All in the club wish Mandisa, Hannah and Erin the best of luck in their recovery and a mention too for the other longer term absentees, Sally, Lily and Lucy who provided great support as always from the sideline. Thanks too to all the parents, guardians and supporters who have followed this team over the season. 

Squad: 

Siobhan Ni Chluaid, Amy Carter, Cadhla Kelly, Orla Turner, Libby McHugh, Rebecca Sleator, Rionagh Costello, Aislinn Kelly (0-3, 3f), Amelie Henson (2-1), Jane Byrne, Hazel Donegan (0-3), Hannah Murray, Eve Murphy (1-0), Mandisa Ni Chluaid, Ella Sweeney (0-1). 

Subs (all used): Ellen Parker, Emma Blagriff, Hannah Ganly, Jola Kearney, Roisin Ni Chluaid, Alannah Gaffey, Chanelle Nestor, Isabella Hogan. 

Other squad members: Erin McHugh, Sallyann Joyce, Lucy Kearney, Lily Mulvihill, (all inj.) Doireann Keena, Aisling Gormley. 

Well done and many thanks to Team Manager, Brian Murphy and his backroom team, Ger Griffith, Lydia Hogan, Diarmuid Ó Chluaid and FLO Noelle Murphy.  Many thanks to Ganlys for their sponsorship of training tops and to Tormeys Solicitors for sponsorship of kit bags.

[2023-10-25]

Coralstown/Kinnegad 2-11, Garrycastle 6-05. 

The under 16s put in a tremendous performance in very tough conditions to qualify for the Division One final.  The sides had met only a few weeks ago in the group stages when Coralstown-Kinnegad emerged winners by nine points but the return of Hazel Donegan to the side for her first championship match this season gave the girls a huge boost, as did the presence of Erin McHugh in the heart of the defence.  Garrycastle never trailed in this match and with Mandisa Ni Chluaid leading the line brilliantly they deservedly led at the break on a score of 5-3 to 1-5.  

The home side came out very determined after half time and put the Garrycastle defence under huge pressure and gradually reduced the lead down to three points before another Garrycastle goal finally made the game safe.  Getting to the final is a great achievement for this group of players with all but one of the squad eligible for this age group again next season.  They will face St Lomans in the final.  

Panel: Siobhan Ni Chluaid, Roisin Ni Chluaid, Cadhla Kelly, Amy Carter, Libby McHugh, Erin McHugh, Rebecca Sleator, Aislinn Kelly (capt.), Amelie Henson (2-0), Jane Byrne, Hazel Donegan (2-2), Hannah Murray, Eve Murphy (1-0), Mandisa Ni Chluaid (1-3), Emma Blagriff, Hannah Ganly, Jola Kearney, Rionagh Costello, Alannah Gaffey, Ella Sweeney, Orla Turner, Chanelle Nestor, Isabella Hogan, Aisling Gormley.

[2023-10-09]

The under-15 girls made it all the way to the Division One Féile Final on the Bank Holiday Weekend but fell short at the last hurdle against a superior St. Lomans side.  The girls had an excellent tournament overall with comprehensive wins over Goldsmiths Girls, St. Mary's Rochfortbridge and Coralstown/Kinnegad in their qualifying group, a goal from St. Mary's being the only score conceded over the three games, and they played some lovely flowing football in the process.  

That put them through to a semi-final against a strong looking Killucan side, but a brilliant individual goal from Amelie Henson straight from the throw-in gave them the best possible start and they never looked back, running out winners on a score line of 4-6 to 1-2.  

The final, which was a repeat of last year’s Under-14 Div. 1 County Final, was always going to be a very tough ask, but St. Lomans were even stronger than expected and Garrycastle simply had no answer to them on the day.  

Best of luck to St. Lomans in the National Féile, it will take a very good team to beat them.

Under-16 Div. 2B FINAL vs Milltown, Saturday October 1st, 2022

Garrycastle 5-06, Milltown 3-08 

The under 16s finally got the better of a very good Milltown side after 150 minutes of at times thrilling football to win this county final. Garrycastle were brilliant in the first twenty minutes here and probably could have put the tie to bed had they taken half of the goal chances they created.  They still led 2-5 to 0-2 coming up to half time thanks to goals from Lucy Kearney and Hazel Donegan, with the points coming from Hazel (2), Hannah Murray (2) and Sally Joyce.   However, Garrycastle suffered a huge blow five minutes from the break when their captain and midfielder, Kacey Mulvihill, who was having an excellent game, had to retire from the game injured.  Milltown had now settled and were unlucky to see a shot come crashing off the crossbar but they added two late points to leave seven between the sides at half time.  

Garrycastle pushed even further ahead after the break with early goals from Aislinn Kelly and Hazel Donegan supplemented by a Sally Joyce point and although Milltown pulled a goal and two points back, when Sally scored a fine individual goal it left Garrycastle leading 5-06 to 1-06 with just 13 minutes left on the clock and looking nailed on.  However, Milltown never gave up and they started to dominate possession with Garrycastle struggling to get out of their half for the rest of the game.  A yellow card for a Garrycastle player saw them play the last ten minutes with just fourteen players. The Garrycastle backs though were defending like demons and they did brilliantly to restrict Milltown to just two goals and two points despite what seemed like interminable pressure.  The most crucial moment of the siege came when Siobhan Ni Chluaid pulled off an incredible one handed save to deflect a shot that looked destined for the top corner.  Two late breakaways from Hazel Donegan almost led to goals but both times her low shots just flashed wide.  Eventually, the final whistle blew deep into injury time to spark jubilant scenes.  

It was hard luck on Milltown who were left ruing a number of wides but a lot of those misses were made under tremendous pressure from the Garrycastle defence who were heroic all through. Overall, Garrycastle were full value for the title over the two games, having been denied late into injury time on the first occasion. The win was also a nice consolation for the under 14 players on the squad who had lost their own Division One final just a week earlier, and 11 of that squad were on the field at the end of the game.  Vice-captain Jessica Frawley collected the trophy in the absence of her injured teammate Kacey, while Hazel Donegan was deservedly named player of the match. Well done to all the squad and to managers Ger Griffith and Brian Murphy, and mentors Lydia Hogan, Diarmaid Ni Chluaid and Colin Clyne.  A word of thanks too to all of the supporters who came to the two games, but especially the senior Garrycastle ladies who turned out in such big numbers to support and inspire the team at the replay, after having their own disappointment just a day earlier, a brilliant example for the younger players to follow.  

Garrycastle squad: Siobhán Ní Chluaid, Kayleigh Clyne (Rebecca Sleator), Cadhla Kelly, Emma Connaughton, Jasmine Molloy, Jessica Frawley, Chanelle Nestor, Aislinn Kelly (1-0), Kacey Mulvihill (Amelie Henson), Eve Murphy, Hazel Donegan (2-2), Hannah Murray (0-2), Mandisa Ní Chluaid, SallyAnn Joyce (1-2), Lucy Kearney (1-1), Lara Ellen Keena McDaid, Rihanna Lowe, Tanya Stephane, Lily Mulvihill, Emma Blagriff, Roberta Narmontaite, Matilda Parker, Isabella Hogan, Róisín Ní Chluaid, Molly Copelin, Mairead McBride. The team and committee sends best wishes to Kacey Mulvihill.

Under-16 Div. 2B FINAL vs. Milltown, Saturday September 3rd, 2022

Garrycastle 4-14, Milltown 4-14 (After extra time)

These two sides will have to meet again after a very exciting encounter that showed off everything that is good about ladies football.  

Playing with the aid of the breeze Milltown were by far the better side in the first half and led by a score of 0-8 to 0-2 at the break, with the Garrycastle points coming from Aislinn Kelly and Hazel Donegan.  The lead could easily have been at least twice that had Milltown taken even half of their chances.  The Garrycastle girls seemed to be affected by nerves and were guilty of poor handling and decision making all over the field, and were standing off their players, whereas Milltown were attacking every ball and there was always a player in support, whether it was in defence or attack. 

Garrycastle settled themselves during the half time interval and they came out a completely different side in the second half with Hazel Donegan scoring a brilliant goal straight from the throw in.  Points followed in quick succession from Sally Joyce, Lucy Kearney and Mandisa Ni Chluaid. Milltown responded with a superb individual goal from their talismanic forward Kate Whyte but Garrycastle immediately responded with a Kacey Mulvihill finish to the back of the net that was followed by an inspirational Aislinn Kelly point. Another point followed from Hazel Donegan to put Garrycastle two points clear before Lucy Kearney saw her close range shot come crashing off the crossbar.  A turning point then came when a rare Milltown attack saw Siobhan Ni Chluaid make a great low diving save to prevent a shot going into the corner but the ball squirmed from her grasp on the artificial goalmouth surface and a Milltown player pounced to restore the lead. Kate Whyte, who contributed all but three of her team’s scores in the match, added two points and then another goal to leave Milltown six points clear with only ten minutes remaining.  

Amazingly, Garrycastle responded yet again.  Hazel Donegan knocked over two points followed by a Kacey Mulvihill free and then Jessica Frawley slalomed through the Milltown rearguard before firing low and hard to the bottom of the net.  The sides exchanged further points before Garrycastle goaled after a goalmouth scramble to take the lead as the game went into injury time.  Some brilliant Garrycastle defending then followed as Milltown poured everything forward in search of an equaliser and when Roisin Ni Chluaid made a super interception and clearance with 65 minutes on the clock Garrycastle thought they surely had the game won.

However, there was still time for one last Milltown attack after a turnover on halfway and it led to a foul on a Milltown forward just inside the square.  Kate Whyte then stepped up with the last kick of the game to send the teams to extra time but only after hitting the crossbar and goaling from the rebound, which summed up an amazing game of football.  

Twenty minutes of extra time then followed in the same vein.  Garrycastle started much the better and took the lead through two Kacey Mulvihill points. Milltown pulled one back but Aislinn Kelly restored the two point lead with a lovely score before Eve Murphy was very unlucky to hit the crossbar after a great move.  The escape seemed to give Milltown renewed momentum and they knocked over two late points to bring the game level yet again.  The final ended with Milltown on the attack against a tiring Garrycastle defence and a winning score seemed almost inevitable until a vital and brilliantly timed block from Jessica Frawley ended the attack and the final whistle blew. 

Garrycastle squad: Siobhan Ni Chluaid, Rihanna Lowe, Cadhla Kelly, Emma Connaughton, Jasmine Molloy, Jessica Frawley, Chanelle Nestor, Aislinn Kelly, Kacey Mulvihill, Eve Murphy, Hazel Donegan, Lucy Kearney, Mandisa Ni Chluaid, Sallyann Joyce, Kaleigh Clyne, Lara Ellen Keena McDaid, Hannah Murray, Roisin Ni Chluaid, Tanya Stephane, Emma Blagriff, Isabella Hogan, Roberta Narmontaite, Mairead McBride, Molly Copelin, Rebecca Sleator, Lily Mulvihill, Matilda Parker.

Under-16 Coach Contact for 2021

For all enquiries related to the Girls Under-16 group in 2021, please contact Colin Clyne on 087 6773095.

Training times for this group may be found on the Training Schedule page.

2020 Report

Under-16 Girls U16 Westmeath Div 2 Winners. The Under-16 girls started training in January 2019 and continued up to October 2020. The girls had a fantastic season and once again were crowned County champions. The girls were undefeated in all 5 championship matches played, which culminated with a very impressive victory in the final against St. Joseph’s in Garrycastle. 

A strong start to the final, put them in a great position to win the under-16 title for the 2nd year in a row. Many thanks to Colin Clyne, Noelle O Donnell, Katrina Jameson, Ger Griffith, Richie Byrne and Declan Finn for their hard work all season. Also to the parents who supported the players and finally to the club executive for their help.

Under-16 Championship vs Caulry, Monday August 24th

Garrycastle 7-13, Caulry 0-06

Well done to our under-16 girls who were victorious over Caulry last Monday evening. 

The Garrycastle girls were in total control from start to finish with a final score of 7-13 to 0-06. Keep up the great work!

Under-16 Championship vs Killucan, August 13th

Garrycastle 9-12, Killucan 2-06

On Thursday evening the squad travelled to Killucan to play the home side.  A strong Killucan side opened the scoring with 2 goals in quick succession. The Garrycastle girls settled down after the uneasy start with a great goal from Ella Dowling.  This was followed shortly by a point from Roisin Murphy. Gemma Duffy was once again superb in goals keeping the home side from scoring any more goals.  The Garrycastle girls pressed hard and kept the scoreboard moving in their direction putting up an impressive score line of 9-12 to Killucans 2-06.

Garrycastle Team and scorers:  Gemma Duffy, Orliath Lynch, Roisin McNamara, Shauna Jameson, Sarah Carter, Arlene Devery, Donna Molloy, Erika Lowe (1-0), Tegan Foley (1-1), Roisin Murphy (1-2), Elaine McGovern (3-2), Jessica Frawley, Ciara Finn (0-3), Ella Dowling (2-3), Kasey Mulvihill, Amy McGovern (0-1), Orla Barry, Nessa McNamara, Jasmine Molloy, Emma Kearney, Emma Connaughton, Hazel Donegan (1-0), Mandisa Ni Chluaid.

Under-16 Championship vs Milltown, August 10th

Garrycastle 2-15 Miltown 0-08

The Under-16 team played their first game of the championship on Monday evening in Garrycastle against Milltown. This was an end to end pulsating game with both teams evenly matched although this was not reflected in the final score. The diligent work of the backs Roisin McNamara, Shauna Jameson, Orliath Lynch, Arlene Devery, Sarah Carter and Donna Molloy, Emma Kearney, Emma Connaughton and Jasmine Molloy left it difficult for the Miltown forwards to penetrate. Superb goal keeping from Gemma Duffy keeping a clean sheet. Tegan Foley and Jessica Frawley were commanding in midfield. The half forwards Amy McGovern, Nessa McNamara and Elaine McGovern lead by Roisin Murphy drove consistently forward creating and taking scoring chances. The full forward line of Ciara Finn, Ella Dowling, Kasey Mulvihill, Orla Barry and Meleigh McDonnagh worked hard throughout, winning out on a score line of Garrycastle 2-15 to Miltown 0-8.

Under-16 B-Championship Final vs. St. Josephs, October 5th

Garrycastle 3-08 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 defences 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 St. Joseph’s added 2 points before finding the Garrycastle net. From the kick out Garrycastle launched an attack which ended in a tackle on Erika 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 St. 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, 3-08 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 defence were solid all through and put an end to many attacks with Roisin McNamara 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 Erika 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 St. 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, to their manager Declan Finn for his commitment and work with this team and to the backroom team of Katrina Jameson and Marie McGovern. Thanks also to Colin Clyne and Ger Griffith for helping out. The team enjoyed refreshments after the game.

Under-16 vs. The Downs, July 16th

Garrycastle 8-11, The Downs 5-04

Garrycastle U16 team travelled to the Downs on Tuesday evening last to play the Downs. This was a hard fought game, 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. Roisin McNamara led in fullback position aided by Shauna Jameson and Amy McGovern 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, Roisin McNamara, Emily Ruane, Shauna Jameson, Shannon Mulvihill, Jasmine Molloy and Amy McGovern.

Under-16 Championship vs. Mullingar Shamrocks, May 14th

Garrycastle 9-15, Mullingar Shamrocks 1-02

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. Eimer 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.

Team: Sarah Jane Kelly, Roisin 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, Roisin Murphy 2-1, Ciara Finn 1-3, Emma Hynes 0-1

Under-16 League vs Loughnavalley, May 7th

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 McGovern. Overall it was a great team effort.

Team: 

Sarah Jane Kelly, Roisin McNamara, Ciara Sheils, 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 Mulvihil (6-3), Aoife Galvin, Roisin Murphy, Ciara Finn (0-4), Emma Hynes, Jessica Frawley, Amy McGovern.

All-Irelan

Under-16 League vs Milltown, April 2nd

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.