Garrycastle GAA Club - Senior Team

This is the Senior Team page.

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

SENIOR TEAM MANAGER 2010

Anthony Cunningham will manage the senior team manager for 2010. Anthony will be assisted by Aidan Dunning, Shay McDermott and Richie Murray. The senior team co-ordinator is Ken Veale.

FOOTBALL COMPETITION DRAWS 2010

Senior Championship

Division 1: Killucan, Tubberclair, Athlone, St Loman’s, Maryland and Coralstown/Kinnegad.

Division 2: Garrycastle, Tyrrellspass, Mullingar Shamrocks, St Malachys, Castledaly and The Downs.

Garrycastle will begin the defence of their championship crown against Tyrrellspass.

As in previous years, the winners of Division 1 and 2 will progress to the semi-finals. The second and third team in each division qualify for the quarter-finals. The last team in each division will play-off for relegation.

All County Football Leagues

Garrycastle’s senior team will compete in Division 1 of the All County League.

FIXTURE

RESULTS/REPORTS

SENIOR FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP (Division 2 - 25/7/10)

GARRYCASTLE 1-13 CASTLEDALY 0-3

Garrycastle seniors guaranteed themselves at least a quarter final place in the senior championship with a well merited win over Castledaly in Pairc Ciarain last Sunday afternoon.

Garrycastle got a flying start with a point in their first attack from sharpshooter, Dessie Dolan. Despite a lot of possession Garrycastle were finding it hard at this stage to break through for more scores and had to wait until the 8th minute before Rory McGowan was on the end of a good move to hit over his side’s second point. Castledaly got off the mark in the 13th minute with a point from distance. However, Garrycastle responded to this with a point from play by Dessie Dolan. The same player then converted a free to stretch the lead to 3 points. Rory got his second point of the game in the 22nd minute and a Dessie Dolan free in the 28th minute put his side 0-6 to 0-1 ahead at the break.

Castledaly needed to start the second period well and did so with a point from play within a minute of the restart. Corner back, John Gaffey, broke forward and hit over a good point a couple of minutes later. Seanie O’Donoghue had a point which was added to by a Paul Dillon point to leave his side 7 points to the good with 42 minutes elapsed. The game was all but ended as a contest in the 45th minute when James Dolan got possession from a quickly taken free and broke forward at pace. He released Alan Daly and he shot emphatically to the Castledaly net. Castledaly needed a goal to give them any hope of rescuing the game and a chance came in the 49th minute. However, Cathal Mullin in the Garrycastle goal made a very good save and the danger was averted. A Dessie Dolan free increased the lead and the same player was on hand to score a point from play in the 52nd minute. Castledaly had a point in response but Garrycastle had further points from a James Duignan free and an effort from Paul Dillon to run out winners by 1-13 to 0-3.

This was a solid performance from Garrycastle. The defence was solid throughout and gave the Castledaly forwards very little room. John Gaffey, Tom McHugh, Doran Harte and James Dolan were most prominent in that division. James Duignan and Seanie O’Donoghue held sway in midfield. Dessie Dolan tormented the Castledaly defence and put in his best performance in the championship to date. He was well support by Rory McGowan and Paul Dillon in attack.

GARRYCASTLE: Cathal Mullin, John Gaffey (0-1), Enda Mulvihill, Tom McHugh, Doran Harte, Karl Henson, James Dolan, James Duignan (0-1, 1f), Seanie O’Donoghue (0-1), Shane Mulvihill, Dessie Dolan (0-6, 3f), Rory McGowan (0-2), Alan Daly (1-0), Paul Dillon (0-2) and Conor Cosgrove.
SUBS: Patrick Mulvihill for S Mulvihill (inj, 23 min); Justin McAteer for C Cosgrove (36 min) and John O’Shaughnessy for D Dolan (55 min).

SFC DIV 2: P 4; W 4; D 0; L 0; Pts 8

SENIOR FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP (Division 2 - 18/7/10)

GARRYCASTLE 0 - 15 ST MALACHYS 2 - 6

Garrycastle senior made it 3 wins from 3 with a win over St Malachys in Tang last Sunday evening. In truth the scoreline did not accurately reflect the superiority of Garrycastle’s play but St Malachys fought right to the end and could have caused an upset.

Garrycastle had a fine start, playing some nice flowing football. Alan Daly had his side ahead in under a minute and Shane Mulvihill doubles Garrycastle’s lead within 3 minutes. A Dessie Dolan point was followed-up with a point from James Dolan to leave Garrycastle 4 points to the good. A second point from Shane Mulvihill had 5 on the board for Garrycastle with just 10 minutes gone and St Malachy’s had yet to register a score. However, that was soon rectified, when a high ball into the Garrycastle defence was misjudged and St Malachy’s capitalised to fine the net. Shane Mulvihill had his third point in the 20th minute and this was soon followed by a Dessie Dolan point from play to put Garrycastle 4 points to the good. A point from St Malachy’s reduced the gap but Alan Daly scored a point from a free in injury time to leave it 0-8 to 1-1 at the break.

As in the first period, Garrycastle made the better start to the second half and had an Alan Daly point in their first attack. A point from a line ball on the right from the boot of Dessie Dolan put his side 6 points ahead. St Malachy’s responded with a point but Rory McGowan had a point a minute later for the green and red. After good approach play Paul Dillon got a chance of a goal but his powerful struck the post and rebounded to safety. Dessie Dolan has a point from a free but St Malachy’s responded with a point. A second St Malachy’s goal in the 43rd minute left just 3 points between the sides. A point from Conor Cosgrove was followed by a point from Alan Daly from a free. St Malachy’s had their best period of possession and had points in the 48th and 54th minutes to reduce the margin to just 3 points again. A point from a free reduced the gap to 2 points with just 4 minutes remaining. Garrycastle had a great chance to seal the win when they were awarded a penalty for a foul on Alan Daly. However, James Duignan’s shot was well saved by Gary Jackson in the St Malachy’s goal. Alan Daly did fist a point in injury time to leave 3 points between the sides. St Malachy’s pressed for an equalising goal but could not fine a way through and Garrycastle were still 3 points to the good on Brendan Keena’s final whistle.

This was a mixed performance from Garrycastle and they will have to improve significantly in their remaining games. Doran Harte and Karl Henson played well throughout. After a bright start James Duignan faded. Shane Mulvihill was prominent in the first half but also faded in the second. Dessie Dolan and Alan Daly took the scoring honours. Paul Dillon worked tirelessly without getting a score.

GARRYCASTLE: Cathal Mullin, John Gaffey Enda Mulvihill, Tom McHugh, Doran Harte, Karl Henson, James Dolan (0-1), James Duignan, Seanie O’Donoghue, Shane Mulvihill (0-3), Dessie Dolan (0-4, 1f), Rory McGowan (0-1), Alan Daly (0-5, 1f), Paul Dillon and Conor Cosgrove (0-1). No substitutes used.

ALL COUNTY LEAGUE (Division 1 - 4/7/10)

GARRRYCASTLE 1-8 ST LOMANS 0-8

Garrycastle seniors travelled to Lakepoint Park on Sunday morning last and after a tight and entertaining game came away with the league points on offer. The game was played in a strong blustery wind, which made point scoring difficult for the forwards on both sides. Garrycastle had a slight wind advantage in the first period.

Garrycastle were off the blocks early and had their first point in less than a minute from Dessie Dolan. They stretched their lead in the 4th minute when Alan Daly converted a free on the right. The visitors had a 3 point lead soon afterwards, when Dessie Dolan had a good point from play. St Lomans had their first point in the 10th minute but James Duignan restored Garrycastle’s 3 point advantage with a well taken point a minute later. An excellent double save by the St Lomans goalie prevented Dessie Dolan from finding the net in Garrycastle’s next attack. A point for St Lomans in the 18th minute reduced the gap. A Dessie Dolan free pushed Garrycastle further ahead but St Lomans responded with a point of their own. A free for St Lomans in the 24th minute reduced the gap to 1 point; however, another Dessie Dolan free restored Garrycastle’s advantage at the break on a scoreline of 0-6 to 0-4.

As in the first half, Garrycastle made the better start and a Dessie Dolan free in the 31st minute put his side 3 to the good again. St Lomans had a point from a free after 39 minutes. A Dessie Dolan free kept the gap at 3 points but St Lomans responded strongly and points in the 48th and 49th minutes left the minimum between the sides. Substitute, Shane Mulvihill, was then on the end of a good move and inter-change of passes to crash a shot to the St Lomans net and put his side ahead by 4 points with just 10 minutes remaining. St Lomans pressed for scores but came up against some resolute and determined Garrycastle defending. They did have a pointed free in the 58th minute but could not work a goal-scoring opportunity and Michael Gordan’s final whistle saw Garrycastle ahead by a goal on 1-8 to 0-8.

This was a mixed performance from Garrycastle but the blustery conditions made it difficult for football. There were strong displays from Enda Mulvihill and Karl Henson in defence. Seanie O’Donoghue and James Duignan just edged the midfield battle. Dessie Dolan took the scoring honours, but worked very hard when not in possession. Paul Dillon and Rory McGowan also worked hard throughout.

GARRYCASTLE: Cathal Mullin, John Gaffey, Enda Mulvihill, Sean Brennan, Doran Harte, Karl Henson, James Dolan, James Duignan (0-1), Seanie O’Donoghue, Rory McGowan, Dessie Dolan (0-6, 5f), Robbie Fox, Alan Daly (0-1, 1f), Paul Dillon and Damien Rush.
SUBS: Conor Cosgrove for A Daly (inj, 21 min); Shane Mulvihill (1-0) for D Rush (inj 42 min); Padraig Cosgrove for R Fox (inj 54 min); and Anthony Larkin for R McGowan (59 min).
BLOOD SUB: Conor Cosgrove for D Rush (17 to 20 mins).

ACL DIV 1: P 7; W 3; D 1; L 3; Pts 7

ALL COUNTY LEAGUE (DIVISION 1 - 15/6/10)

MULLINGAR SHAMROCKS 1-13 GARRYCASTLE 1-8

Mullingar Shamrocks made the trip to sunny Garrycastle last Tuesday evening and went away with a well deserved win over the Garrycastle seniors. Both sides fielded without a number of regulars, however, Garrycastle will be particularly disappointed with their first half performance. They trailed by 4 points within the first 12 minutes of the start and did not register a score until the 20th minute when Paul Dillon hit over a good point from the left. A second Garrycastle point soon followed from an Alan Daly free but that was a prelude to a series of Mullingar Shamrocks points leading up to the break. In fact Mullingar Shamrocks registered 3 more points to lead by 0-7 to 0-2 at half time.

Garrycastle needed to get a good start to the second half and a point from Rory McGowan saw them reduce the margin between the sides after 2 minutes of play. However, Mullingar Shamrocks had a point from a free soon afterwards. A good goal opportunity was missed when Conor Cosgrove got behind the Mullingar Shamrocks defence. However, his shot beat the keeper and hit the side netting. Another Mullingar Shamrocks point from a free extended their lead before Conor Cosgrove hit over a point in the 40th minute. The visitors got on top and hit over 3 points to stretch their lead to 8 points as we approached the mid point of the second half. Alan Daly had an opportunity to goal but his powerful hot hit the woodwork and rebounded to safety. However, the same player was not to be denied and was on the end of a good move to punch a floated pass to the net and give his side some hope of pulling back the lead. Further points from Alan Daly and James Duignan reduced the gap to 3 points with just under 10 minutes remaining. However, the result was all but settled in the 53rd minute when a promising Mullingar Shamrocks move saw them raise a green flag and restore their lead to 6 points. A couple of pointed frees from Alan Daly brought the gap down to 4 points again, however, Mullingar Shamrocks had the last score in injury time to leave them ahead on 1-13 to 1-8 at the end.

This was a mixed bag from Garrycastle, with a poor first half showing and a much better performance all-round in the second half. Enda Mulvihill and JohnGaffey showed best in defence, while substitute Patrick Mulvhill and Alan Daly were the most effective in attack.

GARRYCASTLE: Cathal Mullin, Tom McHugh, Enda Mulvihill, Gary Mullery, Justin McAteer, John Gaffey, Karl Henson, Aidan Browne, Seanie O’Donoghue, Paul Dillon (0-1), James Duignan (0-1), Robbie Fox, Alan Daly (1-4, 0-3f), Rory McGowan (0-1) and Conor Cosgrove (0-1).
SUBS: Patrick Mulvihill for R Fox (19 min); Anthony Larkin for G Mullery (40 min) and Damien Rush for P Dillon (53 min).

SENIOR FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP (Division 2 - 16/5/10)

GARRYCASTLE 2-12 THE DOWNS 1-7

Garrycastle seniors made it two wins out of two with a hard fought but deserved win over The Downs in Moate last Sunday evening. The Downs had the first score with less than a minute played with a point from play and raced into a two point lead within 2 minutes with a second point from play. Garrycastle registered their first score with a good point from Alan Daly in the 3rd minute and the same player had his side level with a point from a free in the 8th minute. The Downs restored their lead with a point from play only to see Garrycastle level matters when Paul Dillon shot over a point. Garrycastle went in front for the first time in the 20th minute when Alan Daly was again on target with a point from play. A minute later they thought they had a point when Dessie Dolan deflected a shot over the bar, but he was adjudged to have been in the small square and the score was disallowed. The Downs had an equalising point in the 26th minute. The Downs regained the lead just before the half time break when they were awarded a free for a push by John Gaffey, however, having consulted his umpires, Referee Rob Cornally, indicated that a penalty was the decision and it was dispatched to the Garrycastle net. The half time score was 1-4 to 0-4 in favour of The Downs.

Garrycastle knew that they would have to play much better if they were to prevail. A point from a free by James Duignan was soon followed by an Alan Daly point to leave just the minimum between the sides. A fine point from Patrick Mulvihill had Garrycastle level in the 37th minute and James Duignan put his side a point up a couple of minutes later with a good point from play. The Downs responded with a point from play but Patrick Mulvihill hit over two points within a minute of each other to increase Garrycastle’s lead. The sides exchanged scores, the Garrycastle point from Dessie Dolan, with just 10 minutes remaining. A decisive score arrived in the 51st minute when after a good build up Alan Daly shot for goal, however, his strike hit the crossbar and the same player followed-up to regain possession and find the net from close range. The match was over as a contest in the 56th minute when Aidan Browne, who was operating at that stage at full-forward, got possession and fired to the net. A pointed free from substitute, Conor Cosgrove, in injury time completed the Garrycastle scoring. However, Alan Daly was shown a second yellow card – followed by a red – in injury time and The Downs scored a point from the resulting free to leave the final score 2-12 to 1-7 in Garrycastle’s favour.

Garrycastle will be concerned at their lack-lustre performance in the first half. However, they played much better in the second period and were comfortable winners in the end. John O’Shaughnessy, John Gaffey and Doran Harte were the pick of the defenders. Patrick Mulvihill and Alan Daly, with good support from Rory McGowan and Dessie Dolan, impressed up front. Garrycastle go into the championship break with maximum points and can look forward to a game against St Malachys in mid July.

GARRYCASTLE: Cathal Mullin, John Gaffey, Enda Mulvihill, John O’Shaughnessy, Mark McCallon, Doran Harte (Capt), James Dolan, Aidan Browne (1-0), Seanie O’Donoghue, James Duignan (0-2, 1f), Patrick Mulvihill (0-3), Rory McGowan, Alan Daly (1-4, 0-2f), Paul Dillon (0-1) and Dessie Dolan (0-1).
SUBS: Shane Mulvihill for P Dillon (46 min); Conor Cosgrove (0-1,1f) for A Browne (57 min) and Padraig Rattigan for M McCallon (58 min).

SENIOR FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP (Division 2 - 2/5/10)

GARRYCASTLE 2-11 TYRRELLSPASS 1-11

Garrycastle seniors got the defence of their senior championship off to a winning start in Cusack Park last Sunday evening against Tyrrellspass. While played in sunny conditions, both teams had to contend with a cold and blustery wind throughout. Garrycastle had the better start and registered their first point when James Duignan converted a free in the first minute. A second point arrived soon afterwards, when Dessie Dolan swung over a lovely point from the right wing. Garrycastle kept pressing, but did not convert some good possession into scores and were guilty of some wides. Tyrrellspass had their first score in the 15th minute with appointed free. They were level a minute later with appoint from open 0play. Garrycastle regained the lead when Shane Mulvihill swung over a good point from the left. Garrycastle restored their two point lead when Gary Dolan got on the end of some good approach play to fire over the bar. Tyrrellspass had their best spell of the half as the game entered the final minutes of the first period. Four points, the first from a free, saw Tyrrellspass take the lead for the first time and establish a two point advantage. However, Garrycastle had the last say in the half, when Dessie Dolan hit over a lovely point in the first minute of injury time, yet again from the right to leave the scoreline 0-6 to 0-5 in favour of Tyrrellspass at the break.

James Duignan had his side’s first score, a point from a close in free, on the resumption of play to level matters. Dessie Dolan was then on the end of a flowing passing move to fire the first goal of the game and put his side into a 3 point lead in the 34th minute. However, Tyrrellspass responded well to this setback and were level within 5 minutes thanks to 3 well taken points, two from play and one from a free. James Dolan ventured forward and the wing back hit over a good point from the left to put Garrycastle into the lead again in the 40th minute. A second goal for Garrycastle came on 45 minutes, when substitute Alan Daly was on the end of a good build-up to blast the ball to the back of the net and push Garrycastle 4 points ahead. A point from Patrick Mulvihill stretched their lead but Tyrrellspass responded with points of their own in the 49th and 51st minutes. Patrick Mulvihill again hit score a point with his fist after a strong run and Gary Dolan was on hand to fire over the bar. A further point from James Duignan from a close range free pushed Garrycastle into a 6 point lead as the game entered injury time. Tyrrellspass tried to engineer a goal and their efforts were rewarded in the 4th minute of injury time when Martin Flanagan found the net from close range. This was to prove to be their last attack, as Barry Kelly’s whistle signalled the end from the resulting kick-out.

Garrycastle will be pleased to have secured a win in the first game of the 2010 championship. However, they know that there will be sterner resistance ahead and they will need to improve in all departments if they are to retain their championship. There were good performances from Enda Mulvihill, Doran Harte and James Dolan in defence. James Duignan was as reliable as ever from frees and Patrick Mulvihill chipped in with a couple of well taken scores in the second half. Dessie Dolan was a thorn in the side of the Tyrrellspass defence until he had to retire late on because of an injury. Substitute, Alan Daly, made a telling contribution for the short period he was on with a well taken goal and John O’Shaughnessy showed well in his time on the pitch.

GARRYCASTLE: Cathal Mullin, John Gaffey, Enda Mulvihill, Mark McCallon, Padraig Rattigan, Doran Harte (Capt), James Dolan (0-1), Aidan Browne, Seanie O’Donoghue, James Duignan (0-3, 2f), Patrick Mulvihill (0-2), Shane Mulvihill (0-1), Paul Dillon, Gary Dolan (0-2) and Dessie Dolan (1-2).
SUBS: Alan Daly (1-0) for S Mulvihill (34 min); John O’Shaughnessy for P Rattigan (37 min); Rory McGowan for D Dolan (57 min – inj); and Conor Cosgrove for A Daly (57 min – inj).

BLOOD SUB:- Sean Brennan for D Harte (13-15 mins).

ALL COUNTY LEAGUE (Division 1 - 18/4/2010)

GARRYCASTLE 2-18 MARYLAND 1-15

Garrycastle seniors secured a valuable 2 points with a hard fought and deserved win over Maryland in Garrycastle last Sunday afternoon. However, you would be forgiven if after the first minute you did not give them much hope, as they trailed by a goal and a point scored by the visitors within he first minute of play. James Duignan got his side’s scoring underway with a point from a free in the 4th minute but Maryland restored their 4 point lead a minute later. We had to wait until 9 minutes had elapsed before Alan Daly got his side’s second score, from a free. The sides exchanged pointed frees, Garrycastle’s score coming yet again from James Duignan. However, Garrycastle came right back into the game with an equalising goal in the 15th minute, when Gary Dolan was on hand to finish to the Maryland net. Garrycastle took the lead a minute later, when James Duignan converted a free and registered his third point of the game. Maryland had a point from play to level matter again, but James Duignan pointed a free after a foul on Dessie Dolan as he bore down on goal. The sides were soon level as Maryland converted a free and they were soon ahead with a well taken point from play. However, Garrycastle took a decisive lead in the 25th minute, when a line ball hoisted into the goal area was flicked on to Alan Daly and he found the net. Points from Paul Dillon and Dessie Dolan pushed their side into a 4 point lead as the break approached. However, Maryland had the last score of the half in the 29th minute to leave Garrycastle in the lead by 2-7 to 1-7.

Garrycastle started the second half in blistering fashion and had stretched their lead further with points from a James Duignan free and from play by Paul Dillon. Maryland rallied and had 3 points of their own in a 5 minute spell to reduce the gap to just 2 points. Garrycastle then had a scoring spurt of 3 points from Aidan Browne (two) and Paul Dillon but Maryland hit back with two points from open play. A further period of Garrycastle dominance yielded scores from James Duignan (a free), Gary Dolan, James Dolan and Patrick Mulvihill to put their side into a six point lead. Maryland responded with a point but Aidan Browne was again on hand to score after a surging run from midfield. Two further points for the visitors, the second of which came from a 45 meter kick after John Gaffey did well to intercept a pass near the Garrycastle goal area, reduced the margin to 5 points. Gary Dolan was to register a point in injury time to leave the final score 2-18 to 1-15 in Garrycastle’s favour on Referee Liam McDaniel’s final whistle.

This was a very open game, with both sides posting good scores. However, Garrycastle will be concerned at the ease in which some of Maryland’s scores were achieved. The Garrycastle management will be pleased that all 6 of the starting forwards were to register on the scoreboard, but are in doubt of the work that needs to be put in as Garrycastle’s first championship game fast approaches.

GARRYCASTLE: Cathal Mullin, Enda Mulvihill, John Gaffey, Sean Brennan, James Dolan (0-1), Doran Harte, Gary McCallon, Seanie O’Donoghue, Aidan Browne (0-3), Paul Dillon (0-3), Patrick Mulvihill (0-1), James Duignan (0-6, 6f), Alan Daly (1-1, 0-1f), Gary Dolan (1-2) and Dessie Dolan (0-1).
SUBS: Padraig Rattigan for E Mulvihill (36 min); Shane Mulvihill for A Daly (38 min); Rory McGowan for P Dillon (50 min); Conor Cosgrove for D Dolan (51 min) and Robbie Fox for S Brennan (52 min).

ALL COUNTY LEAGUE (DIVISION 1 - 3/4/2010)

GARRYCASTLE 2-6 ATHLONE 1-9

Garrycastle and Athlone played out an exciting draw in Pairc Ciarain last Saturday evening. While the evening was dry, the heavy rain during the days leading up to the match meant that the pitch was very soft underfoot and this combined with a greasy ball made handling very difficult for both sets of players. Nevertheless both sides tried to play good football and a draw was about right in the end.

Garrycastle got off to the better start and Conor Cosgrove had his side ahead in the early minutes with a well taken point. The visitor’s lead has enhanced just a minute later when Alan Daly pounced on a loose ball to hit the Athlone net. Athlone replied with a point from play but a James Duignan point from a free restored Garrycastle’s 4 point advantage with just 11 minutes elapsed. Athlone then struck for a well taken goal to leave just the minimum between the sides. However, this was to be a prelude to Garrycastle’s best period of the game. A second Conor Cosgrove point was soon followed by a fine individual goal from Paul Dillon. A further point from Gary Dolan pushed Garrycastle into a 6 point lead after just 16 minutes. Athlone responded in style with a point from a close in free and had another point after 23 minutes to reduce the margin further. This was the final score of the half and Garrycastle went into the break leading by 2-4 to 1-3.

Conor Cosgrove tacked on another point on the resumption to leave 5 points between the sides. However, this was to spur Athlone on to get back into the game. Three pointed frees, converted in the 35th, 37 and 47th minutes reduced the margin to just 2 points. The concession of so many frees was a sign of the huge pressure exerted by Athlone on the Garrycastle defence. A point from a line ball on the left put Athlone to within 1 point with about 10 minutes remaining and the sides were soon level with an Athlone equaliser from play. Almost immediately Athlone hit the front for the first time in the game with a point from play. Garrycastle rallied and had a couple of promising attacks, but were held at bay. However, they were not to be denied and with about 6 minutes remaining Garrycastle substitute, David McHugh, popped up with an equalising point from 30 meters. Both sides had opportunities to get a winner, however, the two defences held firm and Referee Pat Fox’s whistle signalled the end with the sides’ level on a scoreline of 2-6 to 1-9.

Garrycastle had the better of the first period and at times played some nice football in difficult conditions. There were strong performances from John Gaffey, Sean Brennan, Aidan Browne and Paul Dillon during that period. Athlone had the better of the exchanges in the second period and some strong defending from Doran Harte and Enda Mulvihill helped to keep their side in the game.

GARRYCASTLE: Cathal Mullin, John Gaffey, John O’Shaughnessy, Sean Brennan, Robbie Fox, Enda Mulvihill, Doran Harte, Aidan Browne, Seanie O’Donoghue, Conor Cosgrove (0-3), Patrick Mulvihill, James Duignan (0-1, 1f), Paul Dillon (1-0), Gary Dolan (0-1) and Alan Daly (1-0).

SUBS: Padraig Rattigan for J O’Shaughnessy (39 min); Conor Harrington for R Fox (51 min); David McHugh (0-1) for A Daly (51 min) and Johnny McGuire for C Cosgrove (56 min).

ALL COUNTY LEAGUE (Division 1 - 12/3/2010)

GARRYCASTLE 0-13 BUNBROSNA 1-8

Garrycastle seniors secured their first league points of the year with a hard fought but merited win over a slick and determined Bunbrosna side in Garrycastle last Friday night. Having lost their first two league games, and playing against a side with two wins to their credit, Garrycastle needed to get their season up and running.

Garrycastle had the first score of the game, a well taken point from Rory McGowan after he was pt in the clear by Alan Daly in the 5th minute. However, Garrycastle were rocked back a couple of minutes later when a good Bunbrosna attack was stopped with the correct award by Referee, Pat Fox, of a penalty, which was dispatched to the Garrycastle net. This was soon followed by a point from the visitors to establish a 3point cushion. Alan Daly was then placed for a point by Rory McGowan and Rory then had his side’s third point soon afterwards to leave just a point between the sides. Bunbrosna hit over two points, the first of which came from play, to re-establish their 3 point lead half way through the half. Garrycastle then got into their stride and hit over a succession of well taken points. These came from James Duignan, Paul Dillon, and an Alan Daly free. Rory McGowan, Gary Dolan and James Duignan yet again were also on the mark with points. The home side also had a goal opportunity but Shame Mulvihill’s shot for the net was well saved by the visiting goalkeeper. The half time whistle saw Garrycastle with a lead on the scoreboard of 0-9 to 1-3.

Bunbrosna started the second half well and hit over a point in the first minute. James Duignan had another pointed free to re-establish his side’s 3 point advantage. Paul Dillon had a good point from play to put his side 4 up. Bunbrosna were not about to surrender and a period of sustained attack yielded two points, the first of which came from a placed ball. James Duignan again came up with a point from a free to stretch the lead to 3 points with about 5 minutes remaining. However, two pointed frees saw Bunbrosna reduce the margin the bear minimum as full time approached. However, as the sought to get the equaliser, Seanie O’Donoghue was to gain possession and he slotted over a point deep into injury time. The final score 0-13 to 1-8 in the home side’s favour.

This was a solid if not spectacular performance. There were good displays from John O’Shaughnessy, Robbie Fox and Gary McCallon in defence. Aidan Browne won a lot of possession in midfield but was restricted late on by injury. Rory McGowan showed well, particularly in the first half and James Duignan finished the game strongly. Paul Dillon and Alan Daly were prominent early on but faded somewhat in the second half.

GARRYCASTLE: Cathal Mullin, Gary Mullery, John O’Shaughnessy, Sean Brennan, Robbie Fox, Seanie O’Donoghue (0-1), Gary McCallon, Gary Dolan (01), Aidan Browne, Rory McGowan (0-3), James Duignan (0-4, 2f), Shane Mulvihill, Damien Rush, Paul Dillon (0-2) and Alan Daly (0-2, 1f).
SUBS: David McHugh for D Rush (46 min); Anthony Duignan for G Mullery (inj, 50 min); and Padraig Cosgrove for S Mulvihill (56 min).

ALL COUNTY LEAGUE DIVISION 1 (27/2/10)

THE DOWNS 1 – 7 GARRYCASTLE 0 – 9

Garrycastle came away empty-handed from their trip to The Downs last Saturday afternoon, but will wonder how they did not at least gain a point from this game.

The Garrycastle cause was not helped when star forward, Dessie Dolan, had to leave the action only 5 minutes into the game with an injury. The Downs took full advantage and raced into a 2 point lead within 9 minutes. However, Garrycastle hit back strongly and a pointed free from Alan Daly in the 10th minute was their first score. The same player soon had his side level with a well taken point from open play. Alan Daly then registered his and Garrycastle’s third point in the 17th minute to put the visitors into the lead. The Downs responded with a point to level the game in the 22nd minute. The home side got a decisive score, a goal, at the game went into injury time in the first half. However, Garrycastle could have been level almost immediately, but Gary Dolan’s effort on goal when the wrong side of the post. This left The Down a goal to the good at the break on a scoreline of 1-3 to 0-3.

Garrycastle’s injury problems got worst on the restart with Gary Mullery having to be replaces and The Downs increased their lead with a well taken point. Padraig Cosgrove had a goal opportunity but his powerful shot from close range crashed onto the crossbar and rebounded to safety. A pointed free for James Duignan reduced the gap to 3 points again and this was soon followed by an Alan Daly point from play. The Downs had a point from play, before substitute Damien Rush had a good point from an awkward angle. The Downs responded with another point but Alan Daly cancelled that out with yet another pointed free. The Downs registered another point in the 53rd minute to go 3 points up again. Garrycastle pressed forward and a goal bound shot from substitute Davis McHugh seemed destined to register a green flag, however, the ball got stuck in a goalmouth puddle and was eventually cleared by The Downs defence. Gary Dolan hit over a point from a free and then John Gaffey hit a fine point to leave just a point between the sides with about 3 minutes remaining. Garrycastle pressed forward looking an equaliser; however the Downs defence held firm to the end and came away with the victory.

There were some promising performances from young players such as Sean Brennan and Gary Mullery, up until he had to retire through injury. Alan Daly took the scoring honours for his side and Damien Rush and David McHugh had a positive impact on their introduction.

Best wishes to Dessie Dolan and Gary Mullery for a speedy recovery from their injuries.

GARRYCASTLE: Cathal Mullin, Padraig Rattigan, John O’Shaughnessy, Gary Mullery, Doran Harte (Capt), John Gaffey (0-1), Sean Brennan, Gary Dolan (0-1f), James Duignan (0-1f), Conor Cosgrove, Paddy Mulvihill, Rory McGowan, Alan Daly (0-5, 0-3f), Dessie Dolan and Robbie Fox.
SUBS: Padraig Cosgrove for D Dolan (inj, 5 min); Anthony McCallon for G Mullery (inj, 37 min); Damien Rush for P Cosgrove (37 min; David McHugh for C Cosgrove (41 min) and Anthony Duignan for A McCallon (53 min).

ALL COUNTY LEAGUE DIVISION 1 (12/2/2010)

CASTLEDALY 0 - 14 GARRYCASTLE 2 - 7

Castledaly collected the two points from their visit to Garrycastle for the opening game of this year’s league last Friday night. The visitors were clearly the sharper team throughout whereas Garrycastle were sluggish and showed all the signs of a team that had only commenced training a week previously. Ironically, Garrycastle dominated the opening minutes of the game and went ahead with a Paul Dillon goal after four minutes. In fact, but for two excellent saves by the Castledaly goalkeeper Garrycastle would have had three goals in the opening seven minutes. As soon as Castledaly settled, however, they played the smarter football and led by 0-8 to 1-4 at the break. They went on to dominate the third quarter, stretched their lead to three points and looked like they could go on to win comfortably. However, a great goal from Alan Daly brought the sides level and an excellent point by Conor Cosgrove followed to give Garrycastle an unlikely lead. Garrycastle’s lack of fitness became more evident in the last ten minutes and three pointed frees from Castledaly edged them ahead again. Dessie Dolan kept Garrycastle in touch with a superb point from distance, but Castledaly ran out winners to repeat their opening league victory of 2009 over Garrycastle.

GARRYCASTLE: Cathal Mullin, Padraic Rattigan, Enda Mulvihill, Sean Brennan, Robbie Fox, Karl Henson, Johnny McGuire, Seanie O’Donoghue, Gary Dolan, Paul Dillon (1-0), James Duignan, Padraig Cosgrove, Alan Daly (1-1), Paddy Mulvihill (0-1), Dessie Dolan (0-4).

SUBS: Conor Cosgrove (0-1) for Padraig Cosgrove; David McHugh for Paul Dillon.

LEINSTER CLUB SENIOR CHAMPIONSHIP FINAL (6/12/2009)

PORTLAOISE 1 – 9 GARRYCASTLE 1 – 5

Garrycastle seniors bid for provincial honours came up short against Portlaoise in O’Connor Park, Tullamore last Sunday afternoon. However, the players and team management can be immensely proud of their performances throughout 2009, as this was their tenth championship game of the year and the first time they tasted defeat.

Garrycastle had to face into a strong wind blowing into the scoreboard end of O’Connor Park in the first half. However, they made a positive start but were off target with a couple of efforts early on. Not surprisingly, Portlaoise saw plenty of possession and raced into the lead with points in the 3rd, 4th and 6th minutes. Garrycastle hit back with a point from play by Paul Dillon after he was released by Dessie Dolan in the 7th minute. However, Portlaoise got back into the scoring groove and hit over three points in quick succession to jump ahead by 5 points after 16 minutes. Seanie O’Donoghue had a very good point for Garrycastle in the 17th minute and a Paul Dillon point, this time from a free, saw the gap reduced to just 3 points as the half entered its last 5 minutes. Portloaise were reduced to 14 players when wing forward Peter McNulty was shown a second yellow card but they showed great resolve and registered the last score of the half a minute later to leave the score 0-7 to 0-3 in Portlaoise’s favour at the break.

Garrycastle had a great start to the second half and were right back in it when Gary Dolan, playing a captain’s part, fisted a cross field ball from Patrick Mulvihill to the net. However, Garrycastle were rocked right back when less than a minute later, Portlaoise also registered a goal from Barry Fitzgerald. Gary Dolan then struck over a lovely point from play to reduce the margin. Portloaise put more daylight between the sides with a pointed free in the 42nd minute, followed soon afterwards with a point from play. A Dessie Dolan point from a close in free kept the margin down to 4 points with some 16 minutes remaining. However, try as the might Garrycastle could not engineer the scores they craved against a well drilled and strong Portlaoise defence. A number of scoring chances went a begging, either hit wide or into Michael Nolan’s safe hands. The final score was 1-9 to 1-5 in favour of Portlaoise.

The Garrycastle players, team management and supporters were disappointed to lose but they gave of their all and on the day it was not good enough. The team tried everything right up to the final whistle and despite defeat made their families and supporters very proud. Our congratulations to Portlaoise on their win and we wish them the very best of luck in the All Ireland series in the New Year.

GARRYCASTLE: Cathal Mullin, Padraig Rattigan, John Gaffey, Enda Mulvihill, Mark McCallon, Karl Henson, Doran Harte, Seanie O’Donoghue (0-1), David O’Shaughnessy, James Dolan, Dessie Dolan (0-1, 1f), Patrick Mulvihill, Paul Dillon (0-2, 1f), Gary Dolan (1-1) and James Duignan.
SUBS: Tom McHugh for P Rattigan; Aidan Browne for D O’Shaughnessy (inj); Donovan Hermbusce for T McHugh; Shane Mulvihill for P Mulvihill and Alan Daly for J Duignan.

LEINSTER SENIOR CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP (Semi-Final - 22 November 2009)

GARRYCASTLE 1 – 8 BALLYBODEN ST ENDAS 0 – 6

A superb second half display helped Garrycastle advance to the Leinster Club senior championship final, where they will play the winners of Portloaise or Clara, who must try again after their semi-final was abandoned due to the adverse weather last Sunday.

Dublin champions, Ballyboden St Endas, came into the game as favourites, but their most dangerous forward, Conal Keeney, was unable to start.

Garrycastle had the aid of the strong wind and it seemed that they would need a big half time lead in order to prevail. Garrycastle pressed forward from the off and had their first point in the 5th minute when Paul Dillon converted a free. Despite a lot of possession Garrycastle were finding it hard to create scoring opportunities and their supporters would have been concerned at the number of wides recorded. An injury to Padraig Rattigan saw him replaced by Tom McHugh in the 14th minute. A second point came for Garrycastle in the 17th minute, when Dessie Dolan hit over a fine score from the left wing. Ballyboden St Endas registered their first score in the 19th minute but a point from Patrick Mulvihill in the 22nd minute, which was soon followed by a second Dessie Dolan point, this time from a free restored Garrycastle’s advantage. A wonderful point from James Duignan put Garrycastle 4 points up, but Ballyboden St Endas had the last score of the half, right on 30 minutes, to leave Garrycastle ahead by 0 – 5 to 0 – 2 but having to face into the strong wind after the restart.

Ballyboden St Endas reduced the margin just after the restart and it was looking like it would take a strong Garrycastle defensive performance to keep them at bay. This is exactly what they did and very good team work and a willingness to support one another saw Garrycastle weather the storm. In fact Garrycastle came more and more into the game and grew in confidence as the half wore on. A fine Dessie Dolan point, from the tightest of angles, boosted his side in the 39th minute. A most decisive score, the game’s only goal, arrived half way through the second half, when after a fine passing move from defence released wing back, Mark McCallon, and he coolly shot to the Ballyboden St Endas net to put Garrycastle into a 6 point lead. Ballyboden St Endas fought back gamely and points in the 51st and 53rd minutes, the second coming from a free, reduced the margin to 4 points. It was at this stage that Garrycastle showed remarkable composure and held on to possession. What is more they drove forward as much as possible and points from Gary Dolan and midfielder David O’Shaughnessy put them 6 points up as time slowly slipped away. Ballyboden St Endas had a point in the first minute of injury time but could not create a goal opportunity that they badly needed. The final whistle was greeted with relish by the large Garrycastle support in Cusack Park, together with football supporters from other Westmeath clubs.

It would be unfair to single out anybody in what was a wonderful team effort. The Garrycastle defence gave very little away and as Mark McCallon’s goal showed, they were willing to move forward where possible. Seanie O’Donoghue and David O’Shaughnessy put in very good performances throughout and the members of the forward division each contributed handsomely.

Footnote: Congratulations to Tubberclair, who made it a Westmeath double, by qualifying for the Leinster Intermediate club final.

GARRYCASTLE: Cathal Mullin, Padraig Rattigan, John Gaffey, Enda Mulvihill, Mark McCallon (1-0), Karl Henson, Doran Harte, Seanie O’Donoghue, David O’Shaughnessy (0-1), James Dolan, Dessie Dolan (0-3, 1f), Patrick Mulvihill (0-1), Paul Dillon (0-1, 1f), Gary Dolan (Capt, 0-1) and James Duignan (0-1).

SUBS: Tom McHugh for P Rattigan (14 min, inj); Aidan Browne for P Mulvihill (50 min, inj); Stephen O’Reilly (0-1) for Paul Dillon (53 min) and Donovan Hermbusche for J Dolan (60 min).

LEINSTER SENIOR CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP (Quarter Final - 8 November 2009)

GARRYCASTLE 1 – 14 CLONGUISH 0 – 15

Garrycastle advanced to the Leinster Club senior championship semi-final, where they will play the Dublin champions, Ballyboden St Endas, in two weeks time in Mullingar.

Because of a clash of colours both sides had to line out in their respective county colours, so Garrycastle were not wearing the usual Northdoor sponsored strip of green and red. Aidan Brown was injured and was replaced by David O’Shaughnessy from the start.

Garrycastle made the better start and registered their first point with a free from Dessie Dolan after 2 minutes. The same player had a goal in the 8th minute when his shot bypassed both Patrick Mulvihill and a Clonguish defender and goalkeeper. Garrycastle captain, Gary Dolan, had a point in the 18th minute to put his side even further ahead. Dessie Dolan registered another point from a free soon afterwards and Garrycastle established a 6 point advantage, with their opponents scoreless at that stage. Clonguish had their first score in the 22nd minute but Gary Dolan soon restored Garrycastle’s advantage. Three points in a row, the first two coming from play, gave Clonguish hope as the break approached. However, Seanie O’Donoghue had the final score of the first half right on the break with a fine point from play to leave it 1-5 to 0-4 in Garrycastle’s favour.

Clonguish reduced the margin immediately on the resumption, with a free. Gary Dolan cancelled that out with his third point of the game almost immediately. The same player put his side further ahead in the 40th minute with yet another point. However, this was to signally the start of Clonguish’s best period of the game. They drove forward and points in the 41st, 49th, followed by the conversion of a 45 meter kick reduced the margin. Three more points in the 54th, 55th and 58th minutes saw the Longford champions take the lead for the first time in the game as the final whistle neared. However, Garrycastle showed their resolve not to let their opportunity slip by and corner back, Enda Mulvihill, was on the end of a flowing move to fist the equalising point in the last minute of the half. Soon after Referee, David Goldrick, blew the final whistle with the sides level on a scoreline of 1 – 8 to 0 – 11, and two period of 10 minutes of extra time needed.

Tom McHugh replaced Karl Henson for the start of extra time and he was into the action straight away as Clonguish sought to take the lead, which they did in the 3rd minute of extra time. James Dolan was re-introduced for Robbie Fox for Garrycastle. Garrycastle were level when Stephen O’Reilly had a wonderful point from the wing. James Duignan had his first score in the 67th minute to put Garrycastle back in front at the break on a scoreline of 1 – 10 to 0 – 12. The same player scored yet again on the resumption of extra time to put his side 2 points up, however, Clonguish responded with a point when a goal might have resulted. A great point from Dessie Dolan was soon followed by a point from James Duignan to leave 3 points between the sides and Clonguish reduced the margin to 2 with a well taken point with just a couple of minutes remaining. The sides traded points, Garrycastle’s score coming from Dessie Dolan. Garrycastle controlled play in the final few minutes and won on a scoreline of 1 – 14 to 0 – 15 as the final whistle blew.

This was mixed performance from Garrycastle. They dominated the opening 20 minutes and could have had a bigger lead. They will be disappointed with the second half performance, but credit must be given to Clonguish for a spirited fight back. Garrycastle improved during the two periods of extra time and were worthy winners in the end. They will need to play with more consistency if they are to overcome the Dublin champions in the semi-final.

Best for Garrycastle in defence were John Gaffey, Mark McCallon, Enda Mulvihill (including his vital equalising point at the end of normal time) and Doran Harte. Seanie O’Donoghue and David O’Shaughnessy worked tirelessly throughout. Dessie Dolan and Gary Dolan were a constant thorn in the side of the Clonguish defence and a late scoring burst from James Duignan made him a hero to the Garrycastle followers. They were well assisted by Patrick Mulvihill, particularly in the first half of normal time.

GARRYCASTLE: Cathal Mullin, Padraig Rattigan, John Gaffey, Enda Mulvihill (0-1), Mark McCallon, Karl Henson, Doran Harte, Seanie O’Donoghue (0-1), David O’Shaughnessy, James Dolan, Dessie Dolan (1-4, 0-1f), Patrick Mulvihill, Paul Dillon, Gary Dolan (Capt, 0-4) and James Duignan (0-3).

SUBS (in normal time): Stephen O’Reilly (0-1) for Paul Dillon (40 min), Robbie Fox for James Dolan (48 min) and Johnny McGuire for Patrick Mulvihill (56 min).

SUBS (in Extra Time): James Dolan for Robbie Fox; Donovan Hermbusche for Mark McCallon and Alan Daly for Johnny McGuire.

WESTMEATH SENIOR FOOTBALL FINAL (4/10/2009)

GARRYCASTLE 3 – 8 ST LOMAN’S 0 – 6

Garrycastle secured their fourth senior title when they easily overcame St Loman’s in Cusack Park last Sunday afternoon. Garrycastle set the tone right from the off, when Dessie Dolan pointed in the very first minute from a free on the left after Gary Dolan had been fouled. Dessie also had Garrycastle’s second point in the 5th minute, this time from play and also registered his and Garrycastle’s third point soon afterwards. St Loman’s had their first score in the 11th minute with a pointed free. However, Paul Dillon restored Garrycastle’s 3 point advantage with a point from a free. The game’s first goal arrived in the 20th Minute when James Dolan was fed possession close in and rifled his shot to the keeper’s right to raise a green flag. To St Loman’s credit they did not let this setback affect them. In fact St Loman’s had the last two points of the half in the 26th minute and in the final seconds of added time to leave the score 1-4 to 0-3 in Garrycastle’s favour at the break.

Dessie Dolan registered the first score of the second half with a wonderful point from the right wing in the first minute of that period. A decisive score arrived in the 34th minute, when Gary Dolan was fed with a quickly taken free and found the net to put his side into an eight point lead. The game was all but finished as a contest just a minute later, when a high ball into the St Loman’s goalmouth was fumbled by the keeper and substitute Alan Daly was on hand to bundle the ball over the line for his side’s third goal. Yet again St Loman’s rallied from this setback and hit 3 unanswered points, all from play, in a six minute period. However, Garrycastle were in control and a pointed free from Paul Dillon, just before he was substituted, left 3 goals between the sides. A further pointed free from James Duignan and a point from man of the match, Dessie Dolan, ended the scoring to leave Garrycastle champions on a scoreline of 3-8 to 0-6.

As a contest this was a disappointing final, but Garrycastle will be pleased that they came back to capture the title after the disappointment of losing the final in 2008. This was a very good team performance. The defence was solid throughout, so much so that Garrycastle goalkeeper, Cathal Mullin, had little to do during the hour. There were good performances from John Gaffey, Enda Mulvihill and Mark McCallon in particular. Seanie O’Donoghue had a towering game until he had to retire with an injury. James Dolan, Dessie Dolan and team captain Gary Dolan were prominent in attack throughout.

Garrycastle will now represent Westmeath in the Leinster club championship, where they meet the winners of the first round tie involving the champions of Longford and Wexford.

Congratulations to all of the players, right through the panel and the management team of Anthony Cunningham and his selectors Rowan Mulvihill, Aidan Dunning and Shay McDermott.

GARRYCASTLE: Cathal Mullin, Padraig Rattigan, John Gaffey, Enda Mulvihill, Mark McCallon, Karl Henson, Doran Harte, Seanie O’Donoghue, Aidan Browne, James Dolan (1-0), James Duignan (0-1), Shane Mulvihill, Paul Dillon (0-2, 2f), Gary Dolan (1-0 – Captain) and Dessie Dolan (0-5, 1f).
SUBS: Alan Daly for S Mulvihill (24 min); Stephen O’Reilly for S O’Donoghue (39 min); Tom McHugh for P Rattigan (47 min); David O’Shaughnessy for P Dillon (51 min) and Johnny McGuire for A Browne (57 min).

FEIS CUP (1/3/2009)

GARRYCASTLE 0 - 13 ST. LOMAN'S 1 - 7

Garrycastle progressed to the second round of the Feis Cup with a good win over St. Loman's in Garrycastle last Sunday. Starting with just seven of last year's county final line-up, Garrycastle dominated the early play despite playing into a stiff wind. They had four unanswered points after 20 minutes thanks to three Conor Cosgrove frees and a good score from play by James Dolan. Loman's eventually found their rhythm and by the interval had reduced the margin to just a point.

Garrycastle had a glorious chance to stretch their lead just after half time when a great ball from Gary Dolan put Conor Cosgrove clear but the Loman's goalie pulled off a vital save. Loman's celebrated this let-off with an equalising point but Garrycastle's response was positive, with three excellent long-range points from James Dolan, James Duignan and Mark McCallon. Loman's hit back with an equalising goal before Aidan Browne restored Garrycastle's lead with another point from distance. A pointed free by Loman's restored parity but in the final ten minutes Garrycastle outscored their opponents by 0-5 to 0-2, with two more great scores from James Dolan, another by Mark McCallon, a fisted effort from Donovan Hermbusche and a late "45" by Gary Dolan.

This was another encouraging display by Garrycastle, with the commitment and enthusiasm of the younger players blending well with the experience and guile of their more mature colleagues. Even at this early stage of the season it is evident that there will be very keen competition for places when the full panel is available.

GARRYCASTLE: Cathal Mullin, Paraic Rattigan, John O'Shaughnessy, Mark McCallon (0-2), Neill Rattigan, Karl Henson, Donovan Hermbusche (0-1), Aidan Browne (0-1), Gary Dolan (0-1, 45), James Dolan (0-4), James Duignan (0-1), Johnny McGuire, Conor Cosgrove (0-3, frees), Tom McHugh, Anthony McCallon.

SUBS: Shane Mulvihill, Michael Donoghue, Anthony Larkin.

This win means that Garrycastle will play St Malachy’s in the Quarter Final of the Feis Cup 2009. If we win that encounter we are scheduled to pay either Tyrrellspass, Killucan or Bunbrosna in the Semi-Final.

SENIOR SQUAD PEN PICTURES 2009

Cathal Mullin (31) 6ft 4ins; 13stone 2 lbs; Secondary teacher. Cathal was goalkeeper in Westmeath’s great championship campaign of 2001 and has been back on the panel again for the last few years. He has won Minor and Under 21 All-Irelands and National League with his county. He also has county medals at all underage levels as well as Intermediate and Under 21. He was netminder on the Senior Championship sides of 2001, 2002 and captained the senior team to the title in 2004.

Padraig Rattigan (27) 6ft; 11stone 2lbs; Post-graduate student. Padraig captained his club’s Minor team to championship success in 1999. He also has two county Under 21 medals and a Feile na n-Og All-Ireland medal from 1995. Missed the 2001 senior final because of an injury sustained in the semi-final but played a vital part in the 2002 and 2004 senior title wins. Has developed into a top-class defender. Also a member of the Senior “B” championship winning team in 2002.

John Gaffey (25), 6ft; 12stone 3lbs; Sales Negotiator. A promising underage player, John captained Garrycastle to the Under 12 county title in 1995. John broke into the senior team in 2004 and has continued to improve ever since. He was called onto the Westmeath senior squad two years ago and is playing consistently well in defence this year.

Enda Mulvihill (30), 6ft; 12stone 9 lbs; Engineer. Enda holds one All-Ireland and two Leinster Under 21 medals to add to the medals he has won at all underage levels with his club. He was also a member of the Intermediate panel in 1997, and played consistently well at left half back in the 2001, 2002 and 2004 senior championship sides. Struggled with injury last year and in the early part of 2009. However, since regaining fitness has excelled for the side.

Mark McCallon (19), 5ft 10 ins; 11 stone; Student. Mark has been a consistently outstanding player for the club at all underage levels and won a Leinster Colleges medal in 2008 with Athlone Community College. He has made the transition from underage to adult level very smoothly and has established himself on the senior team in 2009.

Karl Henson (31), 5ft10ins; 12stone 3lbs; Solicitor. A very capable defender, Karl was on Westmeath’s Minor team in 1996 and on the senior team that won the National League (Div. 2) in 2003. He has won championship medals at all underage levels with Garrycastle. Also holds Under 21 and Intermediate medals. A key member of the 2001, 2002 and 2004 senior championship winning sides, Karl captained the team in 2002.

Doran Harte (26), 6ft; 12stone 4lbs; Student. Since breaking into the senior side Doran has shown consistently good form. Is very adaptable and can play in a variety of positions. Another member of the Feile winning panel of 1995, he played Under 21 with Westmeath in 2003, and established himself as a regular on the county senior team over the last two years. He was on the 2001, 2002 and 2004 senior championship winning sides and on the Senior “B” championship winning team in 2002.

Seanie O’Donoghue (27), 5ft 11ins; 13stone 8lbs, Civil Servant. Seanie won a Leinster Under 21 medal in 2000, having played with Westmeath Minors for three years. He captained the 1995 Feile winning team, won Minor championship medals in 1996 and 1999 and Under 21 in 1999 and 2001. Represented Ireland in the Under 17 Compromise Rules games against Australia in 1998 and has been a key member of Garrycastle’s three senior championship winning teams.

Aidan Brown (21), 6ft 4ins; 13 stone 4 lbs; Defence Forces. Aidan burst onto the senior scene in 2007 as a 19 year old. Featured in the early part of the year on the county senior side, and has built again this year on the promise he showed in last year’s championship campaign.

James Dolan (19), 5ft 10ins; 11 stone 10lbs; Student. A very talented and promising player who played for Westmeath minors in 2008 and the county Under 21 team this year. Has been very impressive in this year’s campaign and has established himself as a regular on the team.

James Duignan (28), 6ft; 13stone 4lbs; Accounts Manager. Has played Minor and Under 21 for Westmeath, and represented Leinster in the Compromise Rules against Australia in 1998. He has an All-Ireland Feile medal from 1995, and also won both Minor and Under 21 championship medals with the club. He played at midfield on the 2001 senior championship winning side, as a half forward in 2002 and in defence in 2004. James’s versatility, he can fill a variety of defensive and attacking positions, makes him a most valuable member of the team.

Shane Mulvihill (18) 5ft 10ins; 11 stone 7lbs; Student. The youngest player on the team, having turned 18 last week, Shane is fulfilling the huge promise he has shown for the club at all underage levels. Played a prominent part in Garrycastle’s minor successes in 2006 when he was just 15 years old. Has played with distinction in defence for Westmeath minors for the last two years but is showing great form in attack for his club’s senior team.

Paul Dillon (26), 6ft 2 ins; 13stone 7lbs; Solicitor. Paul has been with the Garrycastle senior squad sine 2001 and has developed into a strong and committed forward. He was on the successful 1999 minor team and has also picked up two Under 21 championship medals. Came on as a substitute in the 2001 senior championship final, was out of the country and missed the 2002 campaign but was back to help the club win its third title in 2004.

Gary Dolan (28), 6ft 3ins; 15 stone; Production Engineer. Gary is Captain of the team this year. Yet another member of the 1995 Feile team, Gary played minor and Under 21 football with Westmeath before making a breakthrough into the senior ranks in 2004, winning a Leinster Senior medal. He has won both Minor and Under 21 championship medals with Garrycastle, and is a strong and accurate forward. He played at wing forward on the 2001 senior championship winning side and as full forward in 2002 and 2004.

Dessie Dolan (30), 5ft 11ins; 12stone 7lbs; Teacher. Widely regarded as one of the best forwards in the country. In 2004 Dessie added a Leinster Senior medal to the All-Ireland and two Leinster Under 21 medals won with Westmeath, along with medals won at all levels with Garrycastle. A key member of the senior championship winning sides of 2001, 2002 and 2004. He was a member of Ireland’s Compromise Rules team that toured Australia in 1999 and 2003, was in the stand-by panel for the 2001 tour, and was again a member of the panel for the 2002 and 2004 series. Won a well-deserved All-Star award in 2004 and has been captain of the Westmeath team for the past few years.

Stephen McGuire (26), 5 ft 10ins; 12 stone 3 lbs; Defence Forces. Stephen has been a valued member of Garrycastle adult teams for several years and after playing all his football in various outfield positions he transferred to goalkeeper in 2008 and played in most of our league games this year. He has been a model of consistency as netminder for the Junior team in league and championship.

Robbie Fox ( 26) 5ft 8ins; 13stone 10lbs A fast and determined forward, Robbie played a prominent role in Garrycastle’s last senior championship success in 2004. He spent a year in Australia and so missed out on last year’s campaign and has been pushing strongly for a place on this year’s team.

Stephen O’Reilly (34), 6ft; 14 stone; Company Director. Stephen was one of the club’s most outstanding underage prospects. He played in four county minor finals before helping the Junior team to win the championship in 1993 and was a key player on the Intermediate team in 1997. He missed out on the club’s first senior championship success in 2001 but play a major role as an early substitute in the 2002 final. Has played consistently well over the last couple of years, where his vast experience has proved invaluable.

Tom McHugh (27), 5 ft.10 ins; 11stone 4lbs; Delivery man. Tom played in attack on the winning Feile na n-Og team of 1995 before switching to defence where he played a vital role in Minor and Under 21 successes. Also won Junior “B” hurling titles with Southern Gaels in 2001 and 2002. A member of the 2001, 2002 and 2004 senior championship winning panels and now firmly established as a top-class defender. Also won a Senior “B” championship medal in 2002.

Johnny McGuire (24), 6ft 1in; 11stone; Pharmacist. Jonathan played most of his underage football in midfield but has performed well for the senior team this year in attack. A naturally talented footballer, he has established himself as a regular on the team in 2009.

Alan Daly (31), 5ft 8ins, 11stone 10lbs; Civil Engineer. Alan has Minor and Under 21 All-Ireland medals to add to the championship medals he has won at all underage levels with Garrycastle. He scored the winning goal in the 1999 Under 21 county final, and was also a valued member of the 1997 Intermediate team. Played at full forward on the 2001 senior championship winning side and switched to the corner in 2002 and 2004.

David O’Shaughnessy (31) 6ft 4ins; 14stone 7lbs, bank official. After being frustrated with injuries for most of the last two years David has recently returned to action. He was sorely missed in last year’s county final and will be hoping to see some action in this year’s final. David has won honours at every level for Garrycastle, and captained the club to its first senior title in 2001. Has the distinction of being the first Westmeath man to lift the Delaney Cup when he led the county to its only Leinster senior title in 2004.

Padraig Cosgrove (24), 6ft; 12 stone; Electrician. Padraig was on the 1995 All-Ireland Feile squad and has since won Minor and Under 21 championship medals with the club. A skilful and accurate forward, he played an outstanding game for the Senior “B” team in the 2002 county final and scored a goal after coming on as a substitute in the 2002 senior final.

Donovan Hermbusche (22), 5ft 10ins; 11stone 6lbs; Shop Assistant. Another up and coming young player, Donovan won an All-Ireland medal in 2004 when he shone at centre half back for the Athlone Community College Under 16 team. After a great Feis Cup campaign in 2004 he made the breakthrough to the senior team in 2005 and has been an important panel member ever since.

John O’Shaughnessy (27), 6 ft; 14 stone 6 lbs; Sales Representative. John won a Leinster minor medal with Westmeath in 2000 to add to the medals he won at all underage levels with Garrycastle. Was the youngest member of the history-making 2001 senior team but his career has been severely interrupted by injuries in recent years. A very strong defender, he has the ability and determination to bounce back from his many setbacks and re-establish himself as a key player.

Peadar Mulvihill ( 23) 5ft 9ins; 13stone; Retail manager. The eldest of three brothers on the panel, Peadar played most of his underage football in defence but is now more comfortable in attack. He took a break from football for the last two years before returning to action with the junior team earlier this year where some good displays earned him his place on the senior squad.

Paul Mulvihill (21), 5ft 9 ins; 10 stone 13 lbs; Apprentice Plumber. A fast and elusive forward with a keen eye for an opening, Paul is another graduate from the 2006 Minor team and has shown exceptional commitment all year.

Conor Cosgrove (22), 5ft 11ins; 11stone 10lbs; Student. Conor has been with the senior squad since 2004 and made his senior championship debut in 2005 after some impressive displays in the previous year’s Feis Cup success. Conor has represented Westmeath at all underage levels and is a talented forward.

Patrick Mulvihill (25), 6ft 1 in, 14stone; Garda. An outstanding underage player who has emerged over the past few years as a very potent attacker and has made a big impact in all of Garrycastle’s championship matches. He played with Westmeath Under 21s in 2004 and 2005 and made the breakthrough into the Westmeath senior team in 2005. Has missed almost all of the year through injury.

Anthony Larkin (22), 5ft 11 ins; 11 stone 12 lbs, Cabinet Maker. Equally adept in defence and attack, Anthony has served the club well at all underage levels and has scarcely missed a training session all year. Has performed well for the junior team in league and championship this year.

Gary Mullery (18) 5ft 7 ins; 10stone 10lbs; student. As a result of some outstanding displays with the club’s minor and junior teams this year, Gary has firmly established himself as a valued member of the senior panel and is one of the most promising young players in the club. A brave and tenacious player, Gary normally operates in the half back line.

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