This is the Junior A Team page.

News, Fixtures and Photos of the Junior A Team will appear here from
now on.


JUNIOR TEAM MANAGEMENT 2010

The Junior A team will be managed by Aidan Dunning.

INTERMEDIATE FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP DRAW 2012

Group 1

Garrycastle; Tubberclaire; Tang; Milltownpass; Ballynacargy and Caulry. Garrycastle's first game in the group will be against Milltownpass.

Group 2

Castletown/Finea/Coole/Whitehall; St Marys Rochfordbridge; Rosemount; Shandonagh; Ballinagore and Ballymore.

The winner of each group will advance to the Semi-Final, with the second and third teams into the Quarter-finals. The bottom team in each group will play-off to determine who will be relegated to Junior in 2013.


FIXTURES

 

 

 

RESULTS

ACFL Division 4: Garrycastle w/o from St Pauls.

ACFL Div 4: P 7; W 6; D 0; L 1; Pts 12

 

Garrycastle won Div 4 league

ACFL Division 4: Garrycastle w/o from Ballynacargy

ANNEBROOK HOUSE HOTEL JUNIOR FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP FINAL (7/10/2011)

GARRYCASTLE 2-7 ST PAULS 1-7

Garrycastle Junior A side brought the Westmeath Junior Championship title back to Garrycastle after a gap of 18 years, with a stirring comeback in the second half of Saturday’s final.

Playing into a strong diagonal breeze, Garrycastle found it very difficult to get a foothold in the game, and were two points down in the opening minutes. St Pauls had the lion’s share of the possession and could have had a bigger lead but for some poor wides. Eoin Monaghan, registered Garrycastle’s first point in the 11th minute with a fine score from the left. The sides were level in the 19th minute, as Garrycastle Captain, Noel Galvin, converted a free. St Pauls jumped ahead immediately with a good score and two further points before the break saw the side from Clonmellon lead by 0-5 to 0-2 at the break.

Garrycastle brought in Justin McAteer and Peadar Mulvihill at the start of the second period. However, it was St Pauls who had the better start and registered two further points within the opening 7 minutes to take a lead of 5 points. Garrycastle did not give up and a point from Neil Rattigan got the Castle up and running. A point from a Noel Galvin free reduced the gap to 3 points again and when Justin McAteer broke through in the 42nd minute to blast the ball to the St Pauls net the match was tied. A fine point from Eoin Monaghan put Garrycastle into the lead for the first time soon after that and when the same player was dragged to the ground in the large square the Referee, Michael McAdden, had no hesitation in awarding a penalty. Noel Galvin hit his penalty kick to the goalkeepers right but Ollie Mulvanney could not keep it from nestling in the net despite getting a hand to the effort. With just 5 minutes remaining a second penalty was awarded, this time to St Pauls, and the resulting goal left just a point between the sides again. Garrycastle responded in style to this set-back and from the kick out broke up field and Eoin Monaghan had a good point. Robbie Fox, who had a fine game throughout, registered another Garrycastle point as the game entered its final minute. St Pauls pressed forward in search of scores in the 3 minutes of added time, however, the Garrycastle defence held firm and the green & red were winners by a goal at the end.

What a second half performance, coming from 5 points down with just over 20 minutes remaining and claiming victory by 3. There were some notable performances, particularly from Sean Brennan, Anthony Duignan, Tom McHugh, Noel Galvin, Robbie Fox, Justin Barrett, Eoin Monaghan and substitute, Justin McAteer. However, this was truly a collective team and panel effort. Well done also to the management of Aidan Dunning, with help from Dermot Ryan, Richie Murray and Shay McDeremott.

GARRYCASTLE: Padraig Cosgrove, Gary Mullery, Sean Brennan, Anthony Duignan, Anthony Larkin, Tom McHugh, Gary McCallon, Noel Galvin (Capt – 1-2, 1-0 pen, 0-2 f), Neil Rattigan (0-1), Robbie Fox (0-1), Justin Barrett, Brain Carty, Paul Mulvihill, Paul Donovan and Eoin Monaghan (0-3).
SUBS: Justin McAteer (1-0 for P Donovan at half time); Peadar Mulvihill for B Carty (half time); Sean Carey for Paul Mulvihill (51 min) and Enda Keena for N Rattigan (59 min).

JUNIOR FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIPSEMI-FINAL (17/9/2011)

GARRYCASTLE 2-9 KILBEGGAN 1-11

Garrycastle’s second team pulled off a major shock when eliminating championship favourites Kilbeggan at the semi-final stage in Cusack Park last Saturday. In doing so they have brought the club to its third Junior final, and the first since 1993. More significantly, however, they have this time managed to reach the final with the club’s second team, and the club can now look forward to contesting both senior and junior finals over the next few weeks.

Garrycastle had first use of the strong breeze but Kilbeggan had most possession in the early stages without registering any scores. Two pointed frees by captain Noel Galvin helped settled his team but Kilbeggan were still threatening and narrowed the gap after ten minutes. Probably the best score of the game arrived after 12 minutes when a quick delivery from Tom McHugh found Robbie Fox free 60 yards from goal. Robbie quickly hit another accurate 50 yard pass which found Paul Mulvihill in space and he made no mistake by notching the first goal of the game. Kilbeggan narrowed the gap to two points before Garrycastle’s second goal, finished clinically to the net by Paul O’Donovan after a good delivery by Paul Mulvihill. Another pointed free By Noel Galvin, and a point from play by Paul O’Donovan helped Garrycastle to a half time lead of 2-4 to 0-4.

Justin Barrett, who had played two minor games over the previous 48 hours, came into the Garrycastle midfield at half time and proceeded to win vital possession for his team. Garrycastle had a good spell as a result and extended their lead to 8 points with two more pointed frees from the accurate boot of Noel Galvin. Inevitably, Kilbeggan began to take advantage of the wind and narrowed the gap but Garrycastle still looked dangerous on the break. When Kilbeggan got through for a goal to cut the deficit to three points they seemed to have the impetus to push on for victory but a brilliant point by Robbie Fox gave Garrycastle some breathing space. Further Kilbeggan pressure yielded two more points but points from Noel Galvin and Robbie Fox extended Garrycastle’s lead. In the six minutes of injury time Kilbeggan added two points to reduce Garrycastle’s lead to the minimum, but courageous defending by Garrycastle helped them hang on for a famous victory.

This was a hard-earned win for Garrycastle and all 19 players used showed tremendous energy and determination in securing a very satisfying victory. Kilbeggan had put in a huge effort to ensure that they could bounce back to Intermediate level and were very disappointed to lose out at the semi-final stage. A number of missed opportunities cost them at least a replay but they were generous and dignified in defeat. With the infusion of new players from their improving underage sector they will surely emerge from the junior ranks very soon.

Garrycastle now face a formidable St. Paul’s outfit in the final on 9th October and will need to improve if they hope to achieve a remarkable success for their club. Their defence was under pressure for long periods on Saturday but never lost their shape or discipline. Tom McHugh, Sean Brennan and Gary McCallon were particularly outstanding, while Noel Galvin’s leadership and accurate free-taking were invaluable throughout. Justin Barrett made a huge impact when introduced at half time, while Robbie Fox and Paul Mulvihill were most prominent in a hard-working attack.

GARRYCASTLE: Stephen McGuire, Gary Mullery, Sean Brennan, Anthony Duignan, Anthony Larkin, Tom McHugh, Gary McCallon, Noel Galvin (captain, 0-6 frees), Neill Rattigan, Robbie Fox (0-2), Peadar Mulvihill, Brian Carty, Paul Mulvihill (1-0), Paul O’Donovan (1-1), Padraig Cosgrove. Subs: Justin Barrett, Sean Carey, Conor Molloy, Paul Gunning, Enda Keena, Mark Keenan.

JUNIOR FOOTBALL QUARTER FINAL (10/9/2011)

GARRYCASTLE 4-12 LOUGHNAVALLEY 1-5

The Junior team qualified for the championship semi-final with a comprehensive win over Loughnavalley in Shandonagh last Saturday evening. In difficult weather conditions Garrycastle settled quickly and pointed from their first attack when Noel Galvin kicked over after receiving a return pass from Robbie Fox. Play was then held up for several minutes when referee Seamus McCormack sustained an injury before linesman Declan Nugent took over. A second point from Galvin when play resumed proved to be their last score for some time as Loughnavalley kicked three unanswered points in a ten minute period (one from a free) to take the lead. Garrycastle regained the upper hand for the rest of the half, despite playing into the stiff wind, and points from Paul O’Donovan, Padraig Cosgrove and another from an O’Donovan free gave them a two-point advantage. Loughnavalley had their last score of the half with a pointed free but in a lengthy period of injury time Robbie Fox scored a goal (after great work by Neill Rattigan) and Paul O’Donovan added a point to leave Garrycastle ahead by 1-6 to 0-4 at the break.

Early in the second half a good through ball from Peadar Mulvihill put Robbie Fox clear and he made no mistake to notch his second goal. Within minutes, however, Loughnavalley had cancelled out that score when they netted from close range, but a pointed free by Noel Galvin edged Garrycastle six points clear. The result was put beyond doubt after twelve minutes when Paul Mulvihill scored his team’s third goal after good approach play by Brian Carty. At this stage Garrycastle introduced a few substitutes, including Justin Barrett and Sean Carey who earlier in the day had helped the St. Ciaran’s combination team qualify for the premier minor final in Tubberclair. Further points followed from Noel Galvin (two frees), Robbie Fox and Peadar Mulvihill, whose shot went over via the crossbar. Loughnavalley had their last score when they pointed five minutes from time but in the closing minutes Garrycastle created several chances for further scores. Tom McHugh kicked a point after sub Justin McAteer’s shot had rattled the crossbar, but Justin hadn’t long to wait for his own score when he fielded a great centre from Paul Mulvihill and blasted the ball to the net in the final minutes.

This was an encouraging display by Garrycastle and gives the club another great boost by being the only non-Junior club remaining in the Junior championship. The players will be only too aware, however, that the semi-final next weekend against Kilbeggan represents a far greater challenge, and improvement in all areas will be needed if they are to qualify for the final. Nevertheless, the team has done the club proud, and to have over forty adult players training together in September bodes well for the future. On Saturday the defence was generally in control, with particularly good displays from Sean Brennan, Tom McHugh and Gary McCallon. Noel Galvin and Neill Rattigan worked hard throughout and gave their team a good platform for victory. In attack Robbie Fox led the scoring with his two goals but his colleagues all contributed handsomely to this success, while all five substitutes showed that they are well in contention for places in the semi-final.

TEAM: Stephen McGuire, Gary Mullery, Sean Brennan, Anthony Duignan, Anthony Larkin, Tom McHugh (0-1), Gary McCallon, Noel Galvin (captain, 0-5, three frees), Neill Rattigan, Robbie Fox (2-1), Peadar Mulvihill (0-1), Brian Carty, Paul Mulvihill (1-0), Paul O’Donovan (0-3, one free), Padraig Cosgrove (0-1).

Subs: Justin Barrett (for Peadar Mulvihill), Enda Keena (for Carty), Sean Carey (for Fox), John Murphy (for Mullery) and Justin McAteer (1-0, for O’Donovan).

JUNIOR FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP (Section B - 24/8/2011)

Tyrrellspass did not field. WO to Garrycastle

JFC Section B: P 6; W 5; D 1; L 0; Pts 11


JUNIOR FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP (Section B - 11/8/2011)

GARRYCASTLE 2-11 ST LOMANS 1-6

Garrycastle Junior A side kept up their championship challenge with a well deserved win over St Lomans in Lakepoint Park last Thursday evening. Unfortunately it rained before the game started and throughout most of the first half, making for difficult conditions for both sides, and as a result there were numerous handling errors and it took some time for players to adapt to the conditions.

St Lomans got the first score after 9 minutes, a point from close range. Garrycastle got their first score, a point from Tom McHugh, who broke forward from centre-back to fire over a point in the 12th minute. A goal opportunity was created in a subsequent Garrycastle attack, and Eoin Monaghan was on the end of the move to blast an unstoppable shot to the roof of the St Lomans net. St Lomans had a point back soon afterwards with a point from play. Eoin Monahan then pointed, but this was answered by a point from the home side. Eoin Monaghan continued with his scoring run, by pointing in the 19th minute to put his side into a four point lead. St Lomans responded well and had two points in a row, both of which came from open play. A second Garrycastle goal was posted in the 23rd minute, when following a good build-up; Eoin Monaghan floated a hand pass across the St Lomans goal area for Paul Mulvihill to finish smartly. In their next attack St Lomans had a gilt-edged chance following a poor clearance from the Garrycastle defence and as the forward prepared to shoot he was fouled and Referee, Ken Gunning, awarded a penalty. Stephen McGuire saved well from the penalty; however, a St Lomans forward was on hand to shoot to the net from the loose ball. A point from Paul Mulvihill was the last score of the half, leaving Garrycastle ahead by 2-4 to 1-5 at the break.

Garrycastle upped their effort in the second period and Paul Mulvihill had a point after 38 minutes. A pointed free by Eoin Monaghan stretched the lead further in the 40th minute. Points from Eoin Monaghan, Sean Carey and Eoin Monaghan put Garrycastle into a strong position with about 5 minutes remaining. St Lomans pressed forward looking for a goal that might give them hope, but every attack was repelled in fine style by a resolute Garrycastle defence. Another point from Garrycastle Captain, Noel Galvin, was answered by the only score of the second half from the home side, a pointed free with just a minute remaining. The last score of the game came in injury time, a point from Sean Carey, which left Garrycastle to the good on a score line of 2-11 to 1-6.

This was an excellent team performance by Garrycastle allowing for the difficult underfoot and handling conditions. The defence was solid throughout, evidenced by the fact that they restricted the home to side to just 1 point in the second period, and that came from a free. There were impressive performances from Gary Mullery, Anthony Duignan and Tom McHugh in particular. Noel Galvin led by example in mid-field. Sean Carey and Paul Mulvihill caused problems for their markers and Eoin Monaghan had an excellent game throughout. With Mullingar Shamrocks beating The Downs it means that both Shamrocks and Garrycastle will qualify for the knockout stages of the Junior Championship, with the first and second positions in Section B being determined by results in the final round of games later this month.

GARRYCASTLE: Stephen McGuire, Gary Mullery, Sean Brennan, Anthony Duignan, Anthony Larkin, Tom McHugh (0-1), Gary McCallon, Noel Galvin (0-1), Conor Molloy, Sean Carey (0-2), Peadar Mulvihill, Padraig Cosgrove, Paul Mulvihill (1-2), Paul Donovan and Eoin Monaghan (1-5, 0-1f).
SUBS: Enda Keena for P Donovan (half time) and John Murphy for C Molloy (49 min).

JUNIOR FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP (Section B 4/8/2011)

GARRYCASTLE 1-16 CORALSTOWN/KINNEGAD 1-10

Garrycastle’s Junior A side continued their impressive junior championship campaign with a hard fought but deserved win over Coralstown/Kinnegad last Thursday evening in Garrycastle. Playing with the aid of a stiff breeze, Coralstown/Kinnegad made the brighter start and had a point on the board in their very first attack from the throw-in. Garrycastle had to wait until the 4th minute for their first point, a free converted by Eoin Monaghan. Coralstown/Kinnegad took the lead again in the 8th minute and had a third point soon afterwards to go two up. Paul Mulvihill had a point for the home side in the 13th minute but Coralstown/Kinnegad responded with a point from a close range free. Garrycastle began to exert a good deal of pressure and points from Neil Rattigan and Paul Donovan (who scored two in row from play and one from a free) pushed Garrycastle into the lead by the 25th minute. However, Coralstown/Kinnegad struck back with the game’s first goal as halftime approached as they converted a penalty correctly awarded by Referee, Pat Fox. Garrycastle had the last score of the half, a point from an Eoin Monaghan free to leave the scores level at 1-4 to 0-7.

Coralstown/Kinnegad got the scoring up and running with a point at the start of the second half but this was responded to by an effort by Paul Donovan. Another point for Coralstown/Kinnegad was replied to by Eoin Monaghan. The sides again traded points, the Garrycastle effort coming from Paul Mulvihill. Garrycastle again hit a purple patch with points from Eoin Monaghan (two) a Paul Mulvihill free and Gary McCallon to go 4 points up. A goal from Paul Mulvihill in the 50th minute after he was well placed by Paul Donovan put his side into a commanding lead. However, Coralstown/Kinnegad did not wilt and fought back with determination and pride. They pointed in the 52nd minute only for Garrycastle substitute, Enda Keena, to restore the Garrycastle’s advantage. The sides traded points, the Garrycastle score coning from Conor Molloy. Coralstown/Kinnegad had the last point as full-time approached, this one coming from a free.

This was an excellent team performance from Garrycastle. They battled hard throughout the first half into the breeze and kept up their work-rate in the second period. There were excellent displays from Sean Brennan, Tom McHugh and Brain Carty in defence. Neil Rattigan, Paul Donovan, Paul Mulvihill and Eoin Monaghan were most prominent in attack.

GARRYCASTLE: Stephen McGuire, Gary Mullery, Sean Brennan, Anthony Larkin, Brian Carty, Tom McHugh, Gary McCallon (0-1), Noel Galvin, Conor Molloy (0-1), Sean Carey, Peadar Mulvihill, Neil Rattigan (0-1), Paul Mulvihill (1-3, 0-1f), Paul Donovan (0-6, 1f), Eoin Monaghan (0-3, 2f).
SUBS: Enda Keena (0-1) for Peadar Mulvihill (53 min); Anthony Duignan for A Larkin (58 min) and Paul Gunning for S Carey (58 min).

JUNIOR FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP (Section B 13/7/2011)

GARRYCASTLE 1-9 ATHLONE 0-5

Garrycastle’s Junior A side made the short trip to take on our neighbours in this Junior championship game last Wednesday evening in Pairc Ciaran. The home side made the more impressive start and registered their first point in the 4th minute with a point from play. Garrycastle were finding it difficult to get into any rhythm and were further behind in the 9th minute as Athlone had a point from play. Garrycastle did finally get a point when Paul Mulvihill converted in the 18th minute after good approach play. In their next attack, Garrycastle had a goal from Padraig Cosgrove, after he was set up by Sean Carey and Robbie Shine. Further points followed from Gary McCallon and Tom McHugh as Garrycastle took control of the play. An Athlone attack, in the 23rd minute produced an opportunity for a goal, but thanks to a fine save by Garrycastle goalkeeper, Stephen McGuire, the ball was deflected over the bar. Brian Carty had another point for the visitors in the first minute of added time to leave the half time score 1-4 to 0-3 in Garrycastle’s favour.

Athlone again made the better start to the second period and registered two quick fire points, the first coming from a close-in free. The introduction of Eoin Monaghan in the 38th minute sparked a Garrycastle revival and Eoin pointed twice within a couple of minutes of his introduction. Sean Carey had a point mid way thought the half to ease Garrycastle into a 5 point lead. Athlone pressed for some scores but were repelled by some determined and excellent play from the Garrycastle defence. Further points from Noel Galvin and substitute, David McHugh, saw Garrycastle consolidate their lead as they ran out convincing winners by 1-9 to 0-5.

There were solid performances in defence by Conor Harrington, Gary McCallon, Justin Barrett and John O’Shaughnessy. Sean Carey, Tom McHugh and Paul Mulvihill played well throughout and were well backed up by Eoin Monaghan on his introduction. However, overall this was a fine team performance by all 20 players who participated. A notable feature was that all the Garrycastle scores came from open play.

GARRYCASTLE: Stephen McGuire, Justin Barrett, Conor Harrington, Gary Mullery, Gary McCallon (0-1), John O’Shaughnessy, Anthony Larkin, Noel Galvin (0-1), Robbie Shine, Sean Carey (0-1), Tom McHugh (0-1, Peadar Mulvihill, Brian Carty (0-1), Padraig Cosgrove (1-0) and Paul Mulvihill (0-1).
SUBS: Eoin Monaghan (0-2) for Brain Carty (38 min); Alex Gardiner for P Cosgrove (51 min); David McHugh (0-1) for Peadar Mulvihill (51 min); Gavin Ward for S Carey (53 min) and Paul Gunning for Paul Mulvihill (58 min).

JUNIOR FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP (SECTION B - 28/6/2011)

 

GARRYCASTLE 1-10 MULLINGAR SHAMROCKS 3-4

Garrycastle and Mullingar Shamrocks played out a draw in their re-arranged fixture last Tuesday evening. It was sunny but with a strong breeze blowing straight down the pitch.

Garrycastle made bright start and had a point on the board in the 5th minutes as Brian Carty struck over a good point. Playing with the aid of the breeze, Mullingar Shamrock mounted a few attacks but the Garrycastle defence was caught our by a long clearance and were punished as a goal ensued. However, Garrycastle responded in fine style with a point from Sean Brennan, who broke forward from his defensive position, in the 10th minute. A free from Noel Galvin brought the sides level about the mid point of the half. The visitors went ahead again in the 18th minute with a point from play. Again, Garrycastle responded with a point from John O’Shaughnessy and then took the lead in the 27rtth minute with a point from full-forward Tom McHugh. A fine move put Justin McAteer clear and he found the net just as half time approached to leave Garrycastle ahead by 1-5 to 1-1 at the break.

A point for the visitors reduced the margin in the 2nd minute of the second half and the sides were level again a minute later as Mullingar Shamrocks had their second goal of the game. Robbie Shine stepped up to convert a 45 meter kick to put the home side ahead again. This was followed by a fisted point from Gary McCallon and Robbie Shine had a point from play to put 3 between the sides in the 44th minute. A pointed free for the visitors reduced the margin but this was responded to with a pointed free from Robbie Shine. Gary McCallon broke forward and scored his second point in the 49th minute to leave 4 points of a lead with about 10 minutes remaining. A pointed free for the visitors left it at 3 and a minute later they got the equaliser with a third goal from a slick forward move. Both sides had opportunities to win the game, but Peter Daly’s whistle sounded to leave the final score 1-10 to 3-4.

Garrycastle will be disappointed to have drawn from a winning position. However, there were some excellent displays from what is a young team. Conor Harrington, Justin Barrett and John O’Shaughnessy were prominent in defence. Robbie Shine had a fine game at midfield and chipped in with some good scores also. Brian Carty and Tom McHugh showed well in the forwards.

GARRYCASTLE: Stephen McGuire, Gary Mullery, Conor Harrington, Justin Barrett, Sean Brennan (0-1), John O’Shaughnessy (0-1), Gary McCallon (0-2), Noel Galvin (0-1, 1f), Robbie Shine (0-3, 1f, 1 45), Peadar Mulvihill, Justin McAteer (1-0), Anthony Larkin, Brian Carty (0-1), Tom McHugh (0-1) and Padraig Cosgrove.
SUBS: Jack Donoghue for P Cosgrove (43 min); Enda Keena for A Larkin (46 min) and David McHugh for P Mulvihill (55 min).

ACFL Division 4: Garrycastle w/o from Ballycomoyle

JUNIOR FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP (28 April 2011)

GARRYCASTLE 1-12 THE DOWNS 2-5

Garrycastle Junior A side got their championship campaign off to a winning start with a hard fought and deserved win over The Downs in sunny Garrycastle last Thursday evening.

James Duignan got the home side off to the perfect start with a pointed free in the 3rd minute. The Downs replied with a point from open play a couple of minutes later. Robbie Shine restored the Garrycastle lead in the 10th minute with a good point from play and this was followed-up almost immediately with a point from Noel Galvin. Garrycastle were well on top at this stage and further points in quick succession from James Duignan and Noel Galvin put Garrycastle 4 points to the good. The Downs responded with a point from a free but points from James Duignan and Robbie Shine, both from open play put Garrycastle into a 5 point lead after just 21 minutes. The home side had a couple of other chances but failed to turn them into scores and were made to pay when in the last minute of the first half The Downs broke forward and a slick move resulted in a goal to leave the scoreline at 0-7 to 1-2 in Garrycastle’s favour at the break.

Robbie Shine registered a good point in Garrycastle’s first attack of the second half but the home side were rocked back after just 5 minutes when a second goal for The Downs tied up the scoreline. Garrycastle substitute Eoin Monaghan then got on the end of a free from James Duignan to round his marker and score a goal from close range after 40 minutes. The Downs responded with a point from a free and one from play to reduce the gap to just 1 point again. Robbie Shine stepped up with a good point and this was soon followed by one from another substitute, Peadar Mulvihill, to restore Garrycastle’s lead to 3 points again with 47 minutes played. A free converted by James Duignan put the home side 4 up but The Downs responded with a pointed free of their own as full time approached. There was just enough injury time played by Seamus McCormack for Eoin Monaghan to seal the win with a fine point. The final score was 1-12 to 2-5 in Garrycastle’s favour.

This was a good start to the campaign by Garrycastle with some promising performances, particularly from Gary Mullery, Sean Brennan, Noel Galvin, James Duignan and Robbie Shine. Substitutes Eoin Monaghan and Peadar Mulvihill were prominent on their introduction also.

GARRYCASTLE: Stephen McGuire, Gary Mullery, Anthony Duignan, Conor Harrington, Sean Brennan, John O’Shaughnessy, Gary McCallon, Noel Galvin (0-2), Johnny McGuire, Brian Carty, James Duignan (0-4, 2f), Anthony Larkin, Conor Cosgrove, Robbie Shine (0-4) and Padraig Cosgrove.
SUBS: Keith Donoghue for C Cosgrove (20 min); Eoin Monaghan (1-1) for B Carty (36 min); Peadar Mulvihill (0-1) for K Donoghue (42 min) and Conor Cosgrove for J McGuire (50 min).

ALL COUNTY LEAGUE DIVISION 4 (10/4/2011)

GARRYCASTLE 1-13 THE DOWNS 2-9

Garrycastle Junior A side had a fruitful trip to The Downs last Sunday morning, where they collected 2 points from this hard earned win over the home side.

In idea conditions, Garrycastle got off to a great start when Tom McHugh had his sides first point in the opening minute. The Downs responded in kind a minute later, however, James Duignan restored Garrycastle’s lead with a well taken point. Stephen McGuire then prevented a goal for the home side with a wonderful save at the expense of a 45, which The Downs failed to convert. However, The Downs were level in their next attack with a point from a close range free. Garrycastle began to gain more of the possession and a pointed free from James Duignan and one from play by Sean Brennan increased the Garrycastle lead to 3 points in the opening 10 minutes. Two more pointed frees from the boot of James Duignan saw the visitors open up a good lead and when points from play by Brian Carty and Enda Mulvihill saw the gap stretch to 6 with about 5 minutes remaining in the half. However, The Downs finished the half strongly, and points from a free and one from play reduced the margin again. Another pointed free form James Duignan in added time saw the score line at 0-9 to 0-4 at the break in Garrycastle’s favour.

The home side came out in determined fashion on the resumption and had a point in their opening attack. The Downs then levelled the score with a well taken goal in the 33rd minute. A pointed free and a point from play saw The Downs open up a 2 point lead after 10 minutes of the second half. A point for Garrycastle from full-forward, Tom McHugh, came after good approach play but this was cancelled out by a point for The Downs after 43 minutes. A strong run from Johnny McGuire ended with him fisting an equalising point for Garrycastle. James Duignan pushed Garrycastle into the lead again in the 49th minute with a pointed free and the visitors had the tonic of a goal a couple of minutes later when Tom McHugh was on the end of a flowing move to find the net. The Downs did not give up and came back strongly, scoring a point from a free and then a goal to level the scores yet again. It was anyone’s game as the Referee indicated that 3 minutes of added time would be played. A free for The Downs drifted wide of the posts and Garrycastle mounted yet another attack. Tom McHugh was fouled and James Duignan stepped up to point the resulting free to grab the lead for his side.

This was a mixed performance from Garrycastle. They played some delightful football in the first half, but then seemed to go to sleep at the start of the second half and allowed The Downs to get a grip and even take the lead. However, the Garrycastle side showed great resolve to fight back and gain the win that their overall performance deserved.

There were good displays from Conor Harrington and Sean Brennan in defence. Enda Mulvihill was excellent in the first half but faded somewhat after the break. Johnny McGuire worked tirelessly throughout and Tom McHugh and James Duignan were most prominent when it came to converting scoring opportunities.

GARRYCASTLE: Stephen McGuire, Gary Mullery, Anthony Duignan, Conor Harrington, Sean Brennan (0-1), John O’Shaughnessy, Alan Fox, Noel Galvin, Enda Mulvihill (0-1), Brian Carty (0-1), Johnny McGuire (0-1), Anthony Larkin, Donovan Hermbusche, Tom McHugh (1-2) and James Duignan (0-7, 6f).
SUBS: Peadar Mulvihill for A Duignan (35 min); Padraig Cosgrove for G Mullery – inj (39 min).

All County League Division 4 (29/3/2011)

GARRYCASTLE 5-9 CASTLEDALY 0-4

Garrycastle’s second team collected their second brace of points from this home fixture against Castledaly on Tuesday evening of last week. The game was played in a good spirit in ideal conditions, and the home team started brightly with a Robbie Shine goal after a good flowing movement. They continued to dominate possession, with David O’Shaughnessy and Noel Galvin controlling midfield, but wasted several good chances and spoiled lots of good work by over-doing the short passing. Two goals by Conor Cosgrove helped Garrycastle to a lead of 3-3 to 0-2 at half time. Unfortunately Conor had to retire injured at the break but his replacement Eoin Monaghan made an immediate impact by scoring Garrycastle’s fourth goal early in the second half. Some good points followed from Robbie Fox, Johnny McGuire, Noel Galvin and James Duignan, and a fifth goal from the hard-working Donovan Hermbusche put the seal on a good victory.

Garrycastle had a big panel of players togged out for this game, including a few lads who were carrying injuries but were available if needed. Unfortunately only 20 players can be used in any one game but the injuries sustained by Conor Cosgrove, Gary Mullery and Anthony Duignan show the need for a strong squad of players. Furthermore, there will be plenty more games in the coming months, not just in Division 4 but also in Division 7 and in the Junior and Junior B championships.

GARRYCASTLE: Stephen McGuire, Gary Mullery, Anthony Duignan, Alan Fox, Anthony Larkin, John O’Shaughnessy, Enda Mulvihill, David O’Shaughnessy, Noel Galvin (0-2), Robbie Fox (0-3), Johnny McGuire (0-1), Donovan Hermbusche (1-0), Conor Cosgrove (2-1), James Duignan (0-1), Robbie Shine (1-1).

Subs used: Eoin Monaghan (1-0), Sean Brennan, Conor Harrington, Cathal Joyce, Brian Carty.

All County League Division 4 (19/2/2011)

 

GARRYCASTLE 2-17 ST JOSEPHS 0-6

 

Garrycastle Junior A side made the trip to Streamstown last Saturday afternoon in search of their first points of the year. Their cause was boosted by an early point from the boot of Robbie Fox. The home side had a goal opportunity in their first meaningful attack, but a great block by Sean Brennan resulted in a 45, from which Aidan Lennon pointed. A pointed free from Conor Cosgrove restored Garrycastle’s lead in the 4th minute and the same player added points in the 7th and 11th minutes to add to Garrycastle’s advantage. A James Duignan free was pointed also and Noel Galvin added yet another point I the next attack. St Josephs had a point from play in the 19th minute but a pointed effort from James Duignan restored Garrycastle’s 5 point advantage. There was sufficient time for Conor Cosgrove to point from a free and for Tom McHugh to get his first point before the break. Garrycastle lead by 0-9 to 0-2 as Patrick McGauran sounded his whistle.

A goal just after the restart by Cathal Joyce, who seized on a loose ball in the St Joseph’s goalmouth, put the result beyond doubt. The same player added a point in Garrycastle’s next attack. The home side responded with a point from play but Tom McHugh relied for Garrycastle. St Joseph had a good spell of possession and pointed two efforts to reduce the gap. However, a point from substitute, David McHugh was soon followed by the game’s second goal, as Conor Cosgrove reacted quickest when a ball broke loose to rifle it to the St Joseph’s net with 10 minutes remaining. A pointed free for the home side was to be their last score, as points from Padraig Cosgrove, Enda Keena, Padraig Cosgrove, and two from James Duignan wrapped up the scoring o leave Garrycastle ahead by 2-17 to 0-56 on the final whistle.

This was a good team performance. The defence was solid in front of Stephen McGuire, with notable displays by Conor Harrington, Alan Fox and Anthony Larkin. James Duignan and Noel Galvin ruled the midfield and set up numerous attacks. Keith Donoghue and Cathal Joyce showed well at stages in support of the main scoring threat posed by Conor Cosgrove. There were also good displays by a number of substitutes, in particular David McHugh and Enda Keena.

PS Best wishes for a speedy recovery to Enda Keena who suffered a hand injury right at the end of the game.

GARRYCASTLE: Stephen McGuire, Conor Harrington, John O’Shaughnessy, Sean Brennan, Gary McCallon, Alan Fox, Anthony Larkin, James Duignan (0-4, 2f), Noel Galvin (0-1), Keith Donoghue, Tom McHugh (0-2), Brian Carty, Cathal Joyce (1-1), Conor Cosgrove (1-04, 0-2f) and Robbie Fox (0-1).
SUBS: Sean Carey for S Brennan (44 min); David McHugh (0-1) for G McCallon (46 min); Enda Keena (0-1) for B Carty (52 min); Paul Mulvihill for C Joyce (52 min) and Padraig Cosgrove (0-2) for C Cosgrove (53 min).

All County League Division 4 (5/2/2011)

TUBBERCLAIR 2-10 GARRYCASTLE 2-9

The game was switched to Tubberclair as the Garrycastle pitch was unplayable following the heavy rain of the days leading up to the match. In truth, the Tubberclair pitch was just about playable as the game started. The sides were evenly matched and we had to wait until the 16th minute for a score, a close in free converted by Tubberclair. A good Garrycastle attack in the next minute yielded a fine point from the boot of Conor Cosgrove to level matters. However, Tubberclair responded with 2 well taken points in the next passages of play and had a fourth point soon afterwards. The home side saw a goal effort come back off Stephen McGuire’s post to safety in the 21st minute. Garrycastle got right back into the game with a well taken goal from Robbie Fox after good approach play. The sides traded points, with a second Garrycastle effort coming from a Conor Cosgrove free in the 28th minute. Garrycastle’s cause was dealt a blow just as the half came to a close, when a long-range effort for a point deflected to the Garrycastle net off the fist of Stephen McGuire to leave it 1-5 to 1-2 in Tubberclair’s favour at the break.

Tubberclair started the second half in blistering fashion, reeling off a succession of points as Garrycastle seemed unable to get any decent possession. The lead was stretched out to 7 points, and when a second Tubberclair goal came in the 46th minute the result seemed beyond doubt. However, this latest setback seemed to spur Garrycastle into life and they pressed forward at every opportunity. A point from Tom McHugh was quickly followed by efforts from David O’Shaughnessy and Conor Cosgrove. Two close-range frees resulted in points from Noel Galvin and Conor Cosgrove. Another pointed free from Noel Galvin and a point from Enda Mulvihill left just 4 points between the sides as the game entered the last minute of normal time. Garrycastle piled on the pressure and a goal from Tom McHugh reduced the margin to just a point in the 2nd minute of added time. Garrycastle had to get possession from the kick-out, but they failed to do so and Referee, David Nugent’s final whistle sounded with the scores at 2-10 to 2-9 in Tubberclair’s favour.

Garrycastle will be disappointed not to have secured a point, given their spirited come-back. However, they can have no excuses for a poor display for much of the first half and the opening 15 minutes of the second. There were good displays from Enda Mulvihill, Noel Galvin and Eoin Monaghan on his debut in an adult side for the club.

GARRYCASTLE: Stephen McGuire, Gary Mullery, Padraig Rattigan, John Murphy, Anthony Larkin, Enda Mulvihill (0-1), Conor Harrington, David O’Shaughnessy (0-1), Sean Brennan, Robbie Fox (1-0), Noel Galvin (0-2, 2f), Neil Rattigan, Conor Cosgrove (0-4, 2f), Tom McHugh (1-1) and Eoin Monaghan.
SUBS: Gary McCallon for A Larkin (37 min); Brian Carty for N Rattigan (44 min); Sean Carey for C Harrington (46 min); Peadar Mulvihill for R Fox (50 min) and Enda Keena for S Brennan (55 min).

 

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