Riverside Athletic made it two U16 League title wins on the trot following the most dramatic of conclusions to the 2007-08 SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys U16 League season. The Balineen based club came back from the dead to snatch the league crown from the grasp of Togher Celtic in a pulsating finale on the final day of the SuperValu U16 Play-Offs.
National Cups
The early stages of the SuperValu WCSL U16 season began with 6 West Cork clubs entering the SFAI National Cup tournament. Four teams fell at the first hurdle with Cobh Ramblers proving too strong for Skibbereen (7-1), Leeds accounting for Bay Rovers (3-0) and Castleview receiving a walkover from Clonakilty AFC. The only two West Cork clubs to progress from the Preliminary Round were Drinagh Rangers who overcame the challenge of Buttevant 4-1 thanks to goals from Jamie Walsh, Daniel Hayes, Paul Crowley and Shane Connolly. Bunratty United defeated Togher Celtic in a West Cork derby following a pulsating encounter and a penalty shoot-out to progress to the first round proper. Sean Deasy and Dan O’Sullivan scored for Togher and Jack Twomey and Ger O’Callaghan netted for Bunratty. At 7-7 in the shootout Daniel Hickey saved for United before Michael Bailey made sure of the win with the decisive spot kick. Disappointingly neither Drinagh nor Bunratty were able to field teams in the first round, handing Ballincollig and Cobh Ramblers walkovers and an automatic passage into the second round.
SuperValu U16 League
Togher Celtic topped the SuperValu U16 League table at the end of the regular season, remaining unbeaten with 7 wins and 2 draws from their campaign. Togher’s Cian O’Mahony and Declan Coughlan proved a lethal strike-force combining to score over 15 goals. Drinagh Rangers finished second (also remaining undefeated) with Gavin Connolly topping their goal-scoring charts. Reigning Champions Riverside Athletic finished third with Bunratty United securing the fourth and final play-off spot. There was disappointment for Skibbereen who just missed out on a place in the play-offs by a mere 2 points. Lyre Rovers enjoyed an indifferent League campaign but still managed to secure the U16 Shield trophy before the end of the season. Clonakilty AFC, Bay Rovers, Leeside and Harbour United rarely challenged the front-runners and will hope to improve on their lowly league positions for the upcoming 2008-09 campaign.
The Play-Offs
The first round of the SuperValu U16 Play-Offs exploded into life on April the 19th with an amazing 11 goals in the opening games. Cian O'Mahony grabbed a last minute winner for Togher Celtic after an absolutely pulsating game with Bunratty United in Town Park, Schull. Togher came back from 2-0 down to score twice in the final 5 minutes and win a dramatic encounter 3-2. Gavin McEntaggart broke the deadlock in the 17th minute to put Bunratty 1-0 ahead. Declan Coughlan curled in a terrific effort to tie the scores until Bunratty retook the lead in the 45th minute when Simian Lipitch pounced from 6 yards. Cian O’Mahony made no mistake with a super strike from the edge of the box following a mix-up in the Bunratty defence to level the game. O’Mahony then raced clear of a static defence and sent an unstoppable shot into the net to win a pulsating encounter. On the same afternoon it finished honours even between Riverside Athletic and Drinagh Rangers following a 6-goal thriller in the West End Balineen. Michael Dineen opened the scoring only for Riverside to equalise early in the second half with Michael O'Driscoll netting. Athletic went 3-1 ahead thanks to a fine Brian McCarthy effort and then a second from the in-form O'Driscoll. The home side looked to have the points wrapped up until Drinagh dramatically fought back to score twice in the last 5 minutes. Derek Crowley netted with a tremendous long range free kick and Gavin Connolly stabbed home in injury time to steal a precious point. Round 2 of the SuperValu Play-Offs saw Bunratty United and Riverside Athletic each record crucial home victories. Bunratty emerged with a hard fought 2-0 victory after a tough encounter with Drinagh Rangers thanks to efforts from Gavin MacEntaggart and Sean Evans. Riverside were made to work even harder for their 3-1 home win over Togher Celtic with John Daly, Rory Baggott and Neville Maybury each finding the net in an exciting match. Cian O’Mahony replied for Celtic
Final Day Drama
The final day of a remarkable SuperValu U16 League season took place on Saturday the 10th of May. Riverside entertained Bunratty United while Togher welcomed Drinagh Rangers. Athletic knew that a victory over fellow title-rivals Bunratty would secure a second consecutive Championship. Anything less would allow Togher back into the equation provided they defeated Drinagh in their final match. Things seemed to be going Togher’s way as they easily accounted for out of sorts Drinagh Rangers 5-1. A commanding performance from the home side culminated in a superb Cian O'Mahony hat-trick along with further efforts from David Collins and Dan O'Sullivan. Daniel Hayes was Rangers solitary scorer. In Balineen Athletic found themselves 3-0 down with only 25 minutes remaining having been played off the park by a quite superb Bunratty United performance. What followed next was by far the most remarkable comeback in the 2007-08 Schoolboys League season. The hosts pulled a goal back through a Rory Baggott penalty but the drama wasn't finished there and when Jason Collins bundled the ball over the line 5 minutes later there was only a solitary goal between the sides. Bunratty were under constant pressure now as Riverside pushed everyone forward. Unbelievably Rory Baggott levelled the game at 3-3 with a thundering volley right on full time. Deep into injury time Baggott stepped forward to curl a marvellous effort into the net to complete his hat trick and win the SuperValu U16 League title for an ecstatic Riverside Athletic. It proved to be a final day full of heartbreak for both Bunratty and Togher but for the second season in a row Riverside Athletic stand proudly at the summit of the SuperValu U16 League.
Showing posts with label West Cork Schoolboys League 07-08. Show all posts
Showing posts with label West Cork Schoolboys League 07-08. Show all posts
Sunday, August 24, 2008
WCSL 2007-08 U14 League Review
Lyre Rovers rounded off a terrific year for the Knockskeagh club by defeating Togher Celtic 4-1 in a SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys U14 Play-Off decider in Ballyvackey on the 10th of May to lift the SuperValu U14 League title.
SuperValu U14 League
The WCSL U14 League kicked off back in September with 11 clubs vying for the SuperValu U14 League title. The top four ranked clubs then moved forward to the SuperValu Play-Offs to decide the eventual Champions in a round-robin tournament. Skibbereen topped the league table at the end of March with 9 wins and 1 draw after an extraordinary season. Lyre Rovers finished only 4 points behind the Baltimore Road club with Bunratty United and Togher Celtic rounding off the Play-Off berths. Riverside Athletic and Bay Rovers were disappointed to miss the play-offs by only a single point despite each club enjoying decent league campaigns. Drinagh Rangers finished a disappointing 7th for the Cannon Crowley Park club who had won the U14 double the season before. Rangers still managed to enjoy a decent run in the SFAI National Cup and deservedly lifted the SuperValu U14 Shield in May. Clonakilty AFC, Clonakilty AFC Youths and newcomers Ballydehob found the going tough and finished in the bottom half of the league while Harbour United folded only a few weeks into the season.
SFAI National Cups
One of the highlights of the 2007-08 campaign turned out to be both Skibbereen and Drinagh Rangers U14’s remarkable run in the SFAI National Cup. In September’s Preliminary Round Greenwood knocked out a gallant Ballydehob (3-0), Ardmore defeated Clonakilty AFC and Ringmahon accounted for Togher Celtic. The WCSL enjoyed opening round success with Drinagh overcoming the challenge of Springfield Ramblers (4-1), Skibbereen travelling to Inishvilla and winning a 5 goal thriller (3-2), while Bay Rovers and Bunratty United accounted for Glounthaune United (3-1) and Castleview (4-1) respectively.
Kilreen Celtic brought an end to Bunratty United’s run on October 20th following a 4-2 victory in Schull. Bay Rovers were also eliminated at the first round stage with Rockmount scoring 4 times without reply in Kealkil. It was left to Skibbereen and Drinagh to fly the flag for West Cork with the Baltimore Road side recording an emphatic 7-0 win away to Ardmore and Drinagh picking up a memorable 2-1 victory away to Greenwood. Round 3 of the SFAI National cup saw Skibbereen continue their marvellous run with a 6-0 demolition of Buttevant. Drinagh Rangers were finally knocked out after 3-1 defeat to Corinthian Boys in Cannon Crowley Park. Skibbereen’s extraordinary odyssey in the National Cup finally came to halt on the 15th of December when the visiting Ballincollig proved too strong for an under-strength West Cork outfit (4-1). Overall, the West Cork Schoolboys League sides proved more than a match for most CSL opposition throughout the early rounds of the U14 National Cup. The collective 2007-08 performances are hugely encouraging heading into the upcoming 2008-09 National Cup competitions.
SuperValu U14 Play-Offs
Lyre Rovers entertained Bunratty United in the opening match of the SuperValu U14 Play-Offs on April 12th. The host produced a blistering display to upset the favourites from Schull (5-2). Kevin Cormican and Eoin Hartnett each weighed in with braces while Ethan Draper added a fifth for the home side. Eddie Goggin replied with two goals for a depleted Bunratty. Togher Celtic repeated the same 5-2 score-line at home to Skibbereen a week later in Togher. Mark Quinn notched a hat-trick with Daniel Twomey and David O’Brien completing the scoring in a memorable win for Celtic. A shell-shocked Skibbereen’s goals came from Dan MacEoin and Kevin Davis.
The second round of U14 Play-Off fixtures took place on Saturday the 26th of April with Lyre and Togher repeating their opening day heroics. Lyre Rovers defeated Skibbereen 4-2 in a six goal thriller in Knockskeagh. The match turned out to be one of the games of the season at U14 level with two fully committed sides playing superb football throughout and each contributing to a magnificent spectacle. Kevin Davis beat John Leahy to a long ball into the Lyre penalty area and headed into the net for an early 1-0 Skibbereen lead. James Hayes levelled for the hosts before expertly chipping the Skibbereen goalkeeper from the tightest of angles to put the home side 2-1 up at the interval. Ethan Draper sent an unstoppable 25 free-kick into the top corner of the net for a remarkable goal and a 3-1 lead five minutes after the break. Dan MacEoin brought it back to 3-2 before James Hayes grabbed his hat-trick to end an exciting encounter. On the same day Togher travelled to Schull and came away with all 3 points in a pulsating 2-1 victory over Bunratty United. Gavin McEntaggart put Bunratty 1-0 ahead but Shane Cotter equalised and Maurice Murphy won the game with a late header to setup a home clash with Lyre Rovers to decide the outcome of the U14 League title.
Togher and Lyre played out an entertaining 1-1 draw in Togher on the 5th of May. The result meant the two sides would have to square up once again to decide the U14 title as both teams finished level on points joint-top of the SuperValu U14 Play-Off table. Daniel Twomey put Togher ahead only for Ethan Draper to equalise from the penalty spot just before half time in what turned out to be a tense match.
SuperValu U14 Decider
Rovers finally got their hands on the coveted league trophy following a well deserved 4-1 victory over Togher in a SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys U14 Play-Off decider in Ballyvackey on the 11th of May. Togher grabbed the lead against the run of play with the lively Mark Quinn netting. Rovers demonstrated their undoubted talent and resolve to fight back and score 4 times to secure the U14 league crown. James Hayes (2), Scott Sheehan and Kevin Cormican each netted to bring the SuperValu U14 League title to Knockskeagh for the first time in the club’s history.
SuperValu U14 League
The WCSL U14 League kicked off back in September with 11 clubs vying for the SuperValu U14 League title. The top four ranked clubs then moved forward to the SuperValu Play-Offs to decide the eventual Champions in a round-robin tournament. Skibbereen topped the league table at the end of March with 9 wins and 1 draw after an extraordinary season. Lyre Rovers finished only 4 points behind the Baltimore Road club with Bunratty United and Togher Celtic rounding off the Play-Off berths. Riverside Athletic and Bay Rovers were disappointed to miss the play-offs by only a single point despite each club enjoying decent league campaigns. Drinagh Rangers finished a disappointing 7th for the Cannon Crowley Park club who had won the U14 double the season before. Rangers still managed to enjoy a decent run in the SFAI National Cup and deservedly lifted the SuperValu U14 Shield in May. Clonakilty AFC, Clonakilty AFC Youths and newcomers Ballydehob found the going tough and finished in the bottom half of the league while Harbour United folded only a few weeks into the season.
SFAI National Cups
One of the highlights of the 2007-08 campaign turned out to be both Skibbereen and Drinagh Rangers U14’s remarkable run in the SFAI National Cup. In September’s Preliminary Round Greenwood knocked out a gallant Ballydehob (3-0), Ardmore defeated Clonakilty AFC and Ringmahon accounted for Togher Celtic. The WCSL enjoyed opening round success with Drinagh overcoming the challenge of Springfield Ramblers (4-1), Skibbereen travelling to Inishvilla and winning a 5 goal thriller (3-2), while Bay Rovers and Bunratty United accounted for Glounthaune United (3-1) and Castleview (4-1) respectively.
Kilreen Celtic brought an end to Bunratty United’s run on October 20th following a 4-2 victory in Schull. Bay Rovers were also eliminated at the first round stage with Rockmount scoring 4 times without reply in Kealkil. It was left to Skibbereen and Drinagh to fly the flag for West Cork with the Baltimore Road side recording an emphatic 7-0 win away to Ardmore and Drinagh picking up a memorable 2-1 victory away to Greenwood. Round 3 of the SFAI National cup saw Skibbereen continue their marvellous run with a 6-0 demolition of Buttevant. Drinagh Rangers were finally knocked out after 3-1 defeat to Corinthian Boys in Cannon Crowley Park. Skibbereen’s extraordinary odyssey in the National Cup finally came to halt on the 15th of December when the visiting Ballincollig proved too strong for an under-strength West Cork outfit (4-1). Overall, the West Cork Schoolboys League sides proved more than a match for most CSL opposition throughout the early rounds of the U14 National Cup. The collective 2007-08 performances are hugely encouraging heading into the upcoming 2008-09 National Cup competitions.
SuperValu U14 Play-Offs
Lyre Rovers entertained Bunratty United in the opening match of the SuperValu U14 Play-Offs on April 12th. The host produced a blistering display to upset the favourites from Schull (5-2). Kevin Cormican and Eoin Hartnett each weighed in with braces while Ethan Draper added a fifth for the home side. Eddie Goggin replied with two goals for a depleted Bunratty. Togher Celtic repeated the same 5-2 score-line at home to Skibbereen a week later in Togher. Mark Quinn notched a hat-trick with Daniel Twomey and David O’Brien completing the scoring in a memorable win for Celtic. A shell-shocked Skibbereen’s goals came from Dan MacEoin and Kevin Davis.
The second round of U14 Play-Off fixtures took place on Saturday the 26th of April with Lyre and Togher repeating their opening day heroics. Lyre Rovers defeated Skibbereen 4-2 in a six goal thriller in Knockskeagh. The match turned out to be one of the games of the season at U14 level with two fully committed sides playing superb football throughout and each contributing to a magnificent spectacle. Kevin Davis beat John Leahy to a long ball into the Lyre penalty area and headed into the net for an early 1-0 Skibbereen lead. James Hayes levelled for the hosts before expertly chipping the Skibbereen goalkeeper from the tightest of angles to put the home side 2-1 up at the interval. Ethan Draper sent an unstoppable 25 free-kick into the top corner of the net for a remarkable goal and a 3-1 lead five minutes after the break. Dan MacEoin brought it back to 3-2 before James Hayes grabbed his hat-trick to end an exciting encounter. On the same day Togher travelled to Schull and came away with all 3 points in a pulsating 2-1 victory over Bunratty United. Gavin McEntaggart put Bunratty 1-0 ahead but Shane Cotter equalised and Maurice Murphy won the game with a late header to setup a home clash with Lyre Rovers to decide the outcome of the U14 League title.
Togher and Lyre played out an entertaining 1-1 draw in Togher on the 5th of May. The result meant the two sides would have to square up once again to decide the U14 title as both teams finished level on points joint-top of the SuperValu U14 Play-Off table. Daniel Twomey put Togher ahead only for Ethan Draper to equalise from the penalty spot just before half time in what turned out to be a tense match.
SuperValu U14 Decider
Rovers finally got their hands on the coveted league trophy following a well deserved 4-1 victory over Togher in a SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys U14 Play-Off decider in Ballyvackey on the 11th of May. Togher grabbed the lead against the run of play with the lively Mark Quinn netting. Rovers demonstrated their undoubted talent and resolve to fight back and score 4 times to secure the U14 league crown. James Hayes (2), Scott Sheehan and Kevin Cormican each netted to bring the SuperValu U14 League title to Knockskeagh for the first time in the club’s history.
WCSL U12 League 2007-08 Review
Clonakilty AFC deservedly lifted the 2007-08 SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys League U12 crown after topping a second play-off ‘group of death’ ahead of Skibbereen and Bunratty United.
SuperValu U12 League
The 2007-08 SuperValu U12 league season saw fourteen teams split into two groups with the top two ranked sides in each group progressing to the SuperValu U12 Play-Offs to decide the destination of the league title. Clonakilty AFC dominated Group1, topping the table with 10 wins from their 12 matches and qualifying for the play-offs in confident fashion. The battle for the second play-off berth was surprisingly won by Leeside who edged out the much-fancied Durrus by two points. Durrus recovered from the disappointment of missing the play-offs to eventually win the U12 Shield tournament by the end of the season. Lyre Rovers, Bay Rovers and Drinagh Rangers each enjoyed decent runs in Group1 but were never consistent enough to mount a serious challenge. Ardfield - playing at U12 level for the first time - found the going extremely tough but battled courageously in every game and proved a credit to their club. U12 Group2 transpired as expected with both Bunratty United and Skibbereen qualifying for the play-offs but not before league debutantes, Dunmanway Town, came mightily close to forcing their way into the top two. The Mullough club topped the table for much of the season but crucially ran out of steam towards the end of the group. Third place is still a remarkable result in Dunmanway’s inaugural season. Riverside Athletic and Togher Celtic failed to mount a sustained challenge and finished mid-table. Clonakilty Youths were outclassed in many of their games while Harbour United folded only two weeks into the season.
SFAI National Cups
The early stages of the West Cork Schoolboys U12 League season saw no less than six clubs enter the Preliminary rounds of the SFAI National Cup competition. Clonakilty AFC fell at the first hurdle at home to Corinthian Boys ‘A’ 5-3 in an eight goal thriller. The five remaining WCSL clubs fared much better with Durrus defeating Park United 4-1 and Bunratty United knocking out Everton 4-0. Drinagh Rangers accounted for Togher 3-1 in an all WCSL tie with goals from Jake King (2) and Gary Lordan earning the home side a deserved victory. Skibbereen recorded the most impressive preliminary round triumph of all the West Cork sides, travelling to Cork and knocking out Crosshaven 4-3. The first round of SFAI matches took place in October with Skibbereen and Bunratty each recording notable wins. Skibb knocked out Rockmount in the Baltimore Road 4-1 after a fantastic team display. Bunratty travelled to Midleton and won a ten goal extravaganza 6-4 in Knockgriffin. Conor O'Driscoll scored 4 and Arron Barry grabbed a brace for the Schull side. Macroom ended Drinagh’s cup run in Cannon Crowley Park 3-1 while Durrus failed to field a team for the trip to Springfield Ramblers who were subsequently awarded a walkover.
Mayfield United ended Bunratty United’s interest in the competition in Town Park, Schull in November. The city side proved too strong for an under-strength United and ran out 5-3 winners. On the same day Skibbereen progressed to the last four of the Cork section following a superb 4-2 victory at home to Riverstown. Stephen McCarthy (2), Sean Deasy and Owen Collins found the net for Skibb in a famous win. The Baltimore Road club’s National Cup journey was finally ended by a star-studded Lakewood U12 outfit in December following a 3-2 defeat. Late goals from Sean Deasy and Stephen McCarthy proved immaterial but Skibb’s SFAI National Cup run turned out to be one of the highlights of a tremendous season for the West Cork club.
SuperValu U12 Play-Offs
The SuperValu U12 Play-Offs kicked off in April with Bunratty United edging Clonakilty AFC 3-2 following an ill-tempered affair in Town Park, Scull. Skibbereen proved too strong for Leeside in the opening round winning 4-1 thanks to a hat-trick from the prolific Stephen McCarthy and a late effort from Mark Collins. The Inchigeela side were effectively knocked out of the Play-Offs following a 9-1 drubbing away to Bunratty in May with the mercurial Conor O’Driscoll weighing in with 4 of Bunratty’s total. Clonakilty AFC recovered from their defeat to Bunratty to overpower a disappointing Skibbereen side 5-2 in Ballyvackey. Jack O'Mahony notched a hat-trick while Jack Cowhig and Eoin Ryan completed the scoring for Clon. The final round of play-off fixtures saw Bunratty ravel to the Baltimore Road knowing a draw would be enough to capture the league title. Skibbereen had other ideas and ran out 8-4 winners after a tremendous game. Owen Collins (3), Stephen McCarthy (2), Sean Deasy (2 Pens) and Sean O'Donovan found the net for Skibb while Conor O'Driscoll (3) and Josh Pickett responded for a shell-shocked United. Clonakilty AFC’s expected win at home to Leeside (5-2) meant there was a three way tie for the U12 League Championship so another play-off group was needed to decide a winner from Clon AFC, Skibb and Bunratty.
SuperValu U12 Play-Off Deciders
Bunratty United and Skibbereen share thee points in the opening match of the SuperValu U12 Play-Off Deciders in Town Park Schull. A Fionn Hurley penalty cancelled out a Stephen McCarthy effort in a tight affair. Three days later Clonakilty AFC gained revenge over Bunratty United for their 5-2 defeat in the play-offs to record a hard fought 2-1 victory before a huge crowd in Ballyvackey. A last minute goal from Jack O’Mahony effectively knocked Bunratty out of the title race and set up a winner take all encounter with Skibbereen on the 19th of May. The destination of the title was finally decided following a pulsating 3-3 draw in the Baltimore Road Ground with Clon AFC grabbing a point away to Skibb to secure the U12 Championship. Goals from Eoin Ryan and a brace from Jack Cowhig brought the league crown back to Clonakilty following an unforgettable season for the Ballyvackey-based club.
SuperValu U12 League
The 2007-08 SuperValu U12 league season saw fourteen teams split into two groups with the top two ranked sides in each group progressing to the SuperValu U12 Play-Offs to decide the destination of the league title. Clonakilty AFC dominated Group1, topping the table with 10 wins from their 12 matches and qualifying for the play-offs in confident fashion. The battle for the second play-off berth was surprisingly won by Leeside who edged out the much-fancied Durrus by two points. Durrus recovered from the disappointment of missing the play-offs to eventually win the U12 Shield tournament by the end of the season. Lyre Rovers, Bay Rovers and Drinagh Rangers each enjoyed decent runs in Group1 but were never consistent enough to mount a serious challenge. Ardfield - playing at U12 level for the first time - found the going extremely tough but battled courageously in every game and proved a credit to their club. U12 Group2 transpired as expected with both Bunratty United and Skibbereen qualifying for the play-offs but not before league debutantes, Dunmanway Town, came mightily close to forcing their way into the top two. The Mullough club topped the table for much of the season but crucially ran out of steam towards the end of the group. Third place is still a remarkable result in Dunmanway’s inaugural season. Riverside Athletic and Togher Celtic failed to mount a sustained challenge and finished mid-table. Clonakilty Youths were outclassed in many of their games while Harbour United folded only two weeks into the season.
SFAI National Cups
The early stages of the West Cork Schoolboys U12 League season saw no less than six clubs enter the Preliminary rounds of the SFAI National Cup competition. Clonakilty AFC fell at the first hurdle at home to Corinthian Boys ‘A’ 5-3 in an eight goal thriller. The five remaining WCSL clubs fared much better with Durrus defeating Park United 4-1 and Bunratty United knocking out Everton 4-0. Drinagh Rangers accounted for Togher 3-1 in an all WCSL tie with goals from Jake King (2) and Gary Lordan earning the home side a deserved victory. Skibbereen recorded the most impressive preliminary round triumph of all the West Cork sides, travelling to Cork and knocking out Crosshaven 4-3. The first round of SFAI matches took place in October with Skibbereen and Bunratty each recording notable wins. Skibb knocked out Rockmount in the Baltimore Road 4-1 after a fantastic team display. Bunratty travelled to Midleton and won a ten goal extravaganza 6-4 in Knockgriffin. Conor O'Driscoll scored 4 and Arron Barry grabbed a brace for the Schull side. Macroom ended Drinagh’s cup run in Cannon Crowley Park 3-1 while Durrus failed to field a team for the trip to Springfield Ramblers who were subsequently awarded a walkover.
Mayfield United ended Bunratty United’s interest in the competition in Town Park, Schull in November. The city side proved too strong for an under-strength United and ran out 5-3 winners. On the same day Skibbereen progressed to the last four of the Cork section following a superb 4-2 victory at home to Riverstown. Stephen McCarthy (2), Sean Deasy and Owen Collins found the net for Skibb in a famous win. The Baltimore Road club’s National Cup journey was finally ended by a star-studded Lakewood U12 outfit in December following a 3-2 defeat. Late goals from Sean Deasy and Stephen McCarthy proved immaterial but Skibb’s SFAI National Cup run turned out to be one of the highlights of a tremendous season for the West Cork club.
SuperValu U12 Play-Offs
The SuperValu U12 Play-Offs kicked off in April with Bunratty United edging Clonakilty AFC 3-2 following an ill-tempered affair in Town Park, Scull. Skibbereen proved too strong for Leeside in the opening round winning 4-1 thanks to a hat-trick from the prolific Stephen McCarthy and a late effort from Mark Collins. The Inchigeela side were effectively knocked out of the Play-Offs following a 9-1 drubbing away to Bunratty in May with the mercurial Conor O’Driscoll weighing in with 4 of Bunratty’s total. Clonakilty AFC recovered from their defeat to Bunratty to overpower a disappointing Skibbereen side 5-2 in Ballyvackey. Jack O'Mahony notched a hat-trick while Jack Cowhig and Eoin Ryan completed the scoring for Clon. The final round of play-off fixtures saw Bunratty ravel to the Baltimore Road knowing a draw would be enough to capture the league title. Skibbereen had other ideas and ran out 8-4 winners after a tremendous game. Owen Collins (3), Stephen McCarthy (2), Sean Deasy (2 Pens) and Sean O'Donovan found the net for Skibb while Conor O'Driscoll (3) and Josh Pickett responded for a shell-shocked United. Clonakilty AFC’s expected win at home to Leeside (5-2) meant there was a three way tie for the U12 League Championship so another play-off group was needed to decide a winner from Clon AFC, Skibb and Bunratty.
SuperValu U12 Play-Off Deciders
Bunratty United and Skibbereen share thee points in the opening match of the SuperValu U12 Play-Off Deciders in Town Park Schull. A Fionn Hurley penalty cancelled out a Stephen McCarthy effort in a tight affair. Three days later Clonakilty AFC gained revenge over Bunratty United for their 5-2 defeat in the play-offs to record a hard fought 2-1 victory before a huge crowd in Ballyvackey. A last minute goal from Jack O’Mahony effectively knocked Bunratty out of the title race and set up a winner take all encounter with Skibbereen on the 19th of May. The destination of the title was finally decided following a pulsating 3-3 draw in the Baltimore Road Ground with Clon AFC grabbing a point away to Skibb to secure the U12 Championship. Goals from Eoin Ryan and a brace from Jack Cowhig brought the league crown back to Clonakilty following an unforgettable season for the Ballyvackey-based club.
Thursday, July 24, 2008
West Cork Schoolobys U14 Cup 2007-08 Review
Skibbereen were crowned 2007-2008 West Cork Schoolboys U14 Cup winners following a 2-0 Cup final victory over Lyre Rovers before a huge crowd in Mullough, Dunmanway earlier this season.
The draw for the WCSL U14 cup created two first round ties between Clonakilty AFC and Lyre Rovers as well as a local derby pitting Ballydehob against Bunratty United. The winners of the Clon AFC / Lyre encounter were drawn away to Togher Celtic in the quarter finals with Clonakilty Youths vs. Skibbereen, Riverside Athletic vs. Bay Rovers and Drinagh Rangers vs. the winners of the Ballydehob / Bunratty United first round tie completing the line-up. Skibbereen, Lyre Rovers and Bunratty United began their respective cup campaigns in style with comprehensive victories away from home on the 5th of January. Bunratty United clashed with local rivals Ballydehob in Rathravane in a first round tie and brushed the host's aside 7-1. The visitors were 4-1 up at the break and added three additional goals in a dominant second half to book a place in the last eight. Sean Evans was the best player on view and grabbed a hat-trick following a terrific individual display. Brendan Goggin added another two and further efforts from Adam Collins and Eddie Goggin completed an excellent afternoon's work for the visitors. Tadgh O'Mahony netted a consolation effort late on for the home side.
A brace of goals from Ethan Draper and a fine effort from Gearoid Barry earned Lyre Rovers a hard fought 3-1 victory away to Clonakilty AFC in the first round of the U14 Cup on the same day. Rovers were pushed all the way by a gallant Clonakilty side in an absorbing cup tie in which Tadgh Casey starred and scored the goal of the game with an incredible long range volley for the losers. The other U14 Cup tie played on the 5th of January saw Skibbereen record a one-sided 8-0 victory away to Clonakilty Youths in Ballyvackey to book a semi-final berth. Shane Hourihan broke the deadlock, Kevin Davis notched a brace and Dan MacEoin headed in from a corner to leave Skibb four up at the interval. The visitors continued their domination in the second half thanks to further goals from Rudi Henwood, Brendan O'Dwyer and two from Dan MacEoin to march into the final four in great confidence.
The three remaining quarter finals were completed back in February. On Saturday the 2nd Togher Celtic and Lyre Rovers played out a five goal thriller in Togher. Rovers came from 2-0 down to knock Celtic out in an enthralling quarter final tie. Mark Quinn put the hosts 1-0 ahead with a converted spot-kick. Daniel Twomey doubled Togher’s lead direct from a corner and it seemed Lyre were on their way out. To their credit, Rovers re-grouped and lead by the inspirational Kevin Cormican somehow fought back to clinch the unlikeliest of victories. James Hayes reduced the deficit and then Cormican slid in to equalise. Ethan Draper grabbed a winner soon afterwards and Lyre were through to the semi finals. The other quarter final tie played on the 2nd of Feb between Bay Rovers and Riverside matched the Lyre / Togher encounter for excitement and drama. A pulsating cup tie ended 3-3 after extra time so penalties were needed to decide the outcome. Alex Karkalas was the hero for Bay Rovers, saving the penultimate penalty and then Tom O’Sullivan netted to win the shootout 6-5 and send the Kealkil side into the last four. Bunratty completed the semi final line-up by knocking out the U14 Cup holders, Drinagh Rangers 2-0 on the 16th of February. The match turned out to be one of the games of the season at U14 level with both sides serving up a magnificent spectacle. The game finished scoreless so extra time was needed to separate the sides. Adam Collins converted a superb individual effort to break the deadlock and then Eddie Goggin made it 2-0 shortly afterwards to send Bunratty through to the semi finals.
March the 1st was the date for both U14 Cup semi finals and Skibbereen kicked off proceedings with a one-sided victory away to Bay Rovers. The Baltimore Road club completely outclassed a disappointing Rovers side with Brendan O'Dwyer (2), Rudi Henwood and Kevin Davis all scoring for the visitors. The day belonged to Skibb Captain, Dan MacEoin, who netted an astonishing 5 times to send his side through to the final. The second semi proved a much closer affair with Lyre knocking out the much-fancied Bunratty after a tremendous 2-1 victory in Knockskeagh. James Hayes sprung the United offside trap to put the hosts 1-0 up. Bunratty fought back and deservedly equalised through a cracking Eddie Goggin effort. Kevin Cormican crossed and Scott Sheehan slid in to bury the ball into the net to make it 2-1 late on and Lyre were in the final.
The U14 Cup final took place on the 22nd of March and the top two ranked sides in the U14 division served up a wonderful match befitting such a prestigious occasion. Lyre Rovers dominated possession but lead by their inspirational Captain, Dan MacEoin, the Baltimore Road club demonstrated their undoubted class. Skibb scored twice in the second half to claim the U14 Cup trophy for the first time in a decade. Dan MacEoin curled a free kick into the penalty area for Jason Minihane to guide a fantastic header to put Skibb 1-0 ahead. MacEoin converted a re-taken 50th minute penalty to seal a memorable victory.
SuperValu WCSL U14 Cup 2007-08 Results:
1st Round: Ballydehob 1 Bunratty United 7, Clonakilty AFC 1 Lyre Rovers 3.
Quarter Finals: Togher Celtic 2 Lyre Rovers 3, Clonakilty Youths 0 Skibbereen 8, Riverside Athletic 3 Bay Rovers 3 * aet Bay won 6-5 on penalties, Drinagh Rangers 0 Bunratty United 2.
Semi Finals: Lyre Rovers 2 Bunratty United 1, Bay Rovers 0 Skibbereen 9.
U14 Cup Final: Lyre Rovers 0 Skibbereen 2.
The draw for the WCSL U14 cup created two first round ties between Clonakilty AFC and Lyre Rovers as well as a local derby pitting Ballydehob against Bunratty United. The winners of the Clon AFC / Lyre encounter were drawn away to Togher Celtic in the quarter finals with Clonakilty Youths vs. Skibbereen, Riverside Athletic vs. Bay Rovers and Drinagh Rangers vs. the winners of the Ballydehob / Bunratty United first round tie completing the line-up. Skibbereen, Lyre Rovers and Bunratty United began their respective cup campaigns in style with comprehensive victories away from home on the 5th of January. Bunratty United clashed with local rivals Ballydehob in Rathravane in a first round tie and brushed the host's aside 7-1. The visitors were 4-1 up at the break and added three additional goals in a dominant second half to book a place in the last eight. Sean Evans was the best player on view and grabbed a hat-trick following a terrific individual display. Brendan Goggin added another two and further efforts from Adam Collins and Eddie Goggin completed an excellent afternoon's work for the visitors. Tadgh O'Mahony netted a consolation effort late on for the home side.
A brace of goals from Ethan Draper and a fine effort from Gearoid Barry earned Lyre Rovers a hard fought 3-1 victory away to Clonakilty AFC in the first round of the U14 Cup on the same day. Rovers were pushed all the way by a gallant Clonakilty side in an absorbing cup tie in which Tadgh Casey starred and scored the goal of the game with an incredible long range volley for the losers. The other U14 Cup tie played on the 5th of January saw Skibbereen record a one-sided 8-0 victory away to Clonakilty Youths in Ballyvackey to book a semi-final berth. Shane Hourihan broke the deadlock, Kevin Davis notched a brace and Dan MacEoin headed in from a corner to leave Skibb four up at the interval. The visitors continued their domination in the second half thanks to further goals from Rudi Henwood, Brendan O'Dwyer and two from Dan MacEoin to march into the final four in great confidence.
The three remaining quarter finals were completed back in February. On Saturday the 2nd Togher Celtic and Lyre Rovers played out a five goal thriller in Togher. Rovers came from 2-0 down to knock Celtic out in an enthralling quarter final tie. Mark Quinn put the hosts 1-0 ahead with a converted spot-kick. Daniel Twomey doubled Togher’s lead direct from a corner and it seemed Lyre were on their way out. To their credit, Rovers re-grouped and lead by the inspirational Kevin Cormican somehow fought back to clinch the unlikeliest of victories. James Hayes reduced the deficit and then Cormican slid in to equalise. Ethan Draper grabbed a winner soon afterwards and Lyre were through to the semi finals. The other quarter final tie played on the 2nd of Feb between Bay Rovers and Riverside matched the Lyre / Togher encounter for excitement and drama. A pulsating cup tie ended 3-3 after extra time so penalties were needed to decide the outcome. Alex Karkalas was the hero for Bay Rovers, saving the penultimate penalty and then Tom O’Sullivan netted to win the shootout 6-5 and send the Kealkil side into the last four. Bunratty completed the semi final line-up by knocking out the U14 Cup holders, Drinagh Rangers 2-0 on the 16th of February. The match turned out to be one of the games of the season at U14 level with both sides serving up a magnificent spectacle. The game finished scoreless so extra time was needed to separate the sides. Adam Collins converted a superb individual effort to break the deadlock and then Eddie Goggin made it 2-0 shortly afterwards to send Bunratty through to the semi finals.
March the 1st was the date for both U14 Cup semi finals and Skibbereen kicked off proceedings with a one-sided victory away to Bay Rovers. The Baltimore Road club completely outclassed a disappointing Rovers side with Brendan O'Dwyer (2), Rudi Henwood and Kevin Davis all scoring for the visitors. The day belonged to Skibb Captain, Dan MacEoin, who netted an astonishing 5 times to send his side through to the final. The second semi proved a much closer affair with Lyre knocking out the much-fancied Bunratty after a tremendous 2-1 victory in Knockskeagh. James Hayes sprung the United offside trap to put the hosts 1-0 up. Bunratty fought back and deservedly equalised through a cracking Eddie Goggin effort. Kevin Cormican crossed and Scott Sheehan slid in to bury the ball into the net to make it 2-1 late on and Lyre were in the final.
The U14 Cup final took place on the 22nd of March and the top two ranked sides in the U14 division served up a wonderful match befitting such a prestigious occasion. Lyre Rovers dominated possession but lead by their inspirational Captain, Dan MacEoin, the Baltimore Road club demonstrated their undoubted class. Skibb scored twice in the second half to claim the U14 Cup trophy for the first time in a decade. Dan MacEoin curled a free kick into the penalty area for Jason Minihane to guide a fantastic header to put Skibb 1-0 ahead. MacEoin converted a re-taken 50th minute penalty to seal a memorable victory.
SuperValu WCSL U14 Cup 2007-08 Results:
1st Round: Ballydehob 1 Bunratty United 7, Clonakilty AFC 1 Lyre Rovers 3.
Quarter Finals: Togher Celtic 2 Lyre Rovers 3, Clonakilty Youths 0 Skibbereen 8, Riverside Athletic 3 Bay Rovers 3 * aet Bay won 6-5 on penalties, Drinagh Rangers 0 Bunratty United 2.
Semi Finals: Lyre Rovers 2 Bunratty United 1, Bay Rovers 0 Skibbereen 9.
U14 Cup Final: Lyre Rovers 0 Skibbereen 2.
West Cork Schoolobys U16 Cup 2007-08 Review
Togher Celtic made up for the heartbreak of missing out on the U16 league title by deservedly lifting the 2007-08 West Cork Schoolboys U16 Cup following a hard fought 1-0 final victory over Skibbereen.
10 teams entered the Cup competition with Bay Rovers and Bunratty United drawn together in the only opening round fixture. Lyre Rovers would meet the winners in the quarter finals with Clonakilty AFC vs. Leeside, Skibbereen vs. Drinagh Rangers and Riverside Athletic vs. Togher Celtic completing the draw. The inclement weather at the beginning of the year played havoc with the fixture list until the tournament ended on the 5th of April with Skibb and Togher meeting in the showpiece final in Mullough.
The U16 Cup began on the 12th of January with a quarter final between Skibb and Drinagh Rangers the only fixture to survive a weekend of horrendous weather. What a cup tie it turned out to be with extra time failing to split two evenly matched sides. The weather was atrocious throughout with a gale force wind and driving rain making attractive football difficult until Skibb broke the deadlock just before the break when Darragh Leonard netted to give the hosts a 1-0 lead. Rangers used the wind to good effect in the second period with Gavin Connolly netting from 15 yards to level the tie at 1-1. Drinagh made it 2-1 shortly afterwards when Connolly set up Brian Hurley to score. Skibbereen pushed every player forward in search of a goal and were rewarded with a dramatic equaliser deep into injury time. Jonathan Davis reacted quickest after a goalmouth scramble to stab the ball home and take the game into extra time. There was no further scoring in the additional period so penalties were required to decide the outcome. The shoot-out went to sudden death (5-5) before Danny O'Donovan converted to put the home side 6-5 ahead. Donnagh McCarthy saved Drinagh's next spot kick to send the Skibbereen team into the semi finals.
Bunratty United knocked out Bay Rovers 5-1 in a re-arranged first round tie in Kealkil on the 26th of January. Goals from Jack Twomey, Cormac Wholley, Eddie Goggin and a brace from Sean Evans earned United their place in the quarter finals. Alan Thomas scored Rovers solitary goal. On the same afternoon Togher Celtic travelled to Balineen to face Riverside Athletic in a local derby. Celtic were pushed all the way by the eventual League winners but emerged with a 2-0 win to qualify for the semi finals. Strikes in either half from Fin Collins and David Collins booked Togher’s place in the final four. Leeside caused a minor upset when the Inchigeela outfit knocked Clonakilty AFC out of the Cup with a well deserved 4-2 quarter final victory in Ballyvackey. The visitors hit the front after 19 minutes when Ben Shorten crossed for Sean O’Leary to steal in and finish confidently from 10 yards. Cian Dineen made it 2-0 when the Leeside midfielder sprinted clear of the Clon defence and slotted home. Clon refused to lie down and pulled one back through Conor McKahey after a frantic goalmouth scramble. The Inchigeela side were not to be denied and extended their lead on the hour mark when Kevin Manning netted. The visitors made sure of the victory late in the game when David Hourihane raced clear and slipped the ball into the net. There was still time for a late consolation from Clonakilty when Eoin Feen scored with an incredible 30 yard lob. Bunratty United travelled to Knockskeagh and defeated Lyre Rovers 3-1 in the last of the quarter final ties. The visitors took an early lead through a Jack Twomey penalty and doubled their advantage shortly before the break with another Twomey effort. Lyre fought back valiantly and pulled one back with a long range Ethan Draper free kick until Bunratty pounced to seal their victory in the dying seconds through a Sonny O'Regan effort.
Skibbereen defeated Leeside 2-0 to qualify for the U16 Cup final in a wind-swept Baltimore road on the 8th of March. Leeside goalkeeper, Shane Galvin, put in a man of the match display with a string of world class saves but couldn’t prevent the cup holders from progressing. An own goal and a late Ger Minihane effort propelled Skibbereen into the final despite an un-inspiring performance. Togher Celtic defeated Bunratty United 4-1 in the second semi final in Togher on the 22nd of March. Celtic’s Diarmuid O'Brien scored the only goal of the first half. Fintan Collins added a second on the hour mark but Bunratty United responded well and pulled a goal back 5 minutes later. The Togher defence held firm and Celtic made sure of the victory with two late goals from Declan Coughlan and Brian O'Sullivan to seal a memorable win.
The WCSL U16 Cup final took place on the 5th of April on the immaculate playing surface in Mullough, Dunmanway between (holders) Skibbereen and Togher Celtic. A solitary strike from ace marksman, Declan Coughlan, won the coveted trophy for Togher after an open, entertaining encounter. In the 22nd minute Cian O'Mahony's superb run and cross was met by a fantastic first-time volley from the in-rushing Coughlan who gave the Skibb goalkeeper no chance with a stunning finish. It was a goal worthy of winning any cup final and despite a gallant fight-back from Skibbereen Togher Celtic eventually ran out deserving winners to claim the SuperValu WCSL U16 Cup for the 2007-08 campaign.
SuperValu WCSL U16 Cup 2007-08 Results:
1st Round: Bay Rovers 1 Bunratty United 5.
Quarter Finals: Clonakilty AFC 2 Leeside 4, Skibbereen 2 Drinagh Rangers 2 (aet Skibb won 6-5 on penalties), Riverside Athletic 0 Togher Celtic 2, Lyre Rovers 1 Bunratty United 3.
Semi Finals: Togher Celtic 4 Bunratty United 1, Skibbereen 2 Leeside 0.
U16 Cup Final: Togher Celtic 1 Skibbereen 0.
10 teams entered the Cup competition with Bay Rovers and Bunratty United drawn together in the only opening round fixture. Lyre Rovers would meet the winners in the quarter finals with Clonakilty AFC vs. Leeside, Skibbereen vs. Drinagh Rangers and Riverside Athletic vs. Togher Celtic completing the draw. The inclement weather at the beginning of the year played havoc with the fixture list until the tournament ended on the 5th of April with Skibb and Togher meeting in the showpiece final in Mullough.
The U16 Cup began on the 12th of January with a quarter final between Skibb and Drinagh Rangers the only fixture to survive a weekend of horrendous weather. What a cup tie it turned out to be with extra time failing to split two evenly matched sides. The weather was atrocious throughout with a gale force wind and driving rain making attractive football difficult until Skibb broke the deadlock just before the break when Darragh Leonard netted to give the hosts a 1-0 lead. Rangers used the wind to good effect in the second period with Gavin Connolly netting from 15 yards to level the tie at 1-1. Drinagh made it 2-1 shortly afterwards when Connolly set up Brian Hurley to score. Skibbereen pushed every player forward in search of a goal and were rewarded with a dramatic equaliser deep into injury time. Jonathan Davis reacted quickest after a goalmouth scramble to stab the ball home and take the game into extra time. There was no further scoring in the additional period so penalties were required to decide the outcome. The shoot-out went to sudden death (5-5) before Danny O'Donovan converted to put the home side 6-5 ahead. Donnagh McCarthy saved Drinagh's next spot kick to send the Skibbereen team into the semi finals.
Bunratty United knocked out Bay Rovers 5-1 in a re-arranged first round tie in Kealkil on the 26th of January. Goals from Jack Twomey, Cormac Wholley, Eddie Goggin and a brace from Sean Evans earned United their place in the quarter finals. Alan Thomas scored Rovers solitary goal. On the same afternoon Togher Celtic travelled to Balineen to face Riverside Athletic in a local derby. Celtic were pushed all the way by the eventual League winners but emerged with a 2-0 win to qualify for the semi finals. Strikes in either half from Fin Collins and David Collins booked Togher’s place in the final four. Leeside caused a minor upset when the Inchigeela outfit knocked Clonakilty AFC out of the Cup with a well deserved 4-2 quarter final victory in Ballyvackey. The visitors hit the front after 19 minutes when Ben Shorten crossed for Sean O’Leary to steal in and finish confidently from 10 yards. Cian Dineen made it 2-0 when the Leeside midfielder sprinted clear of the Clon defence and slotted home. Clon refused to lie down and pulled one back through Conor McKahey after a frantic goalmouth scramble. The Inchigeela side were not to be denied and extended their lead on the hour mark when Kevin Manning netted. The visitors made sure of the victory late in the game when David Hourihane raced clear and slipped the ball into the net. There was still time for a late consolation from Clonakilty when Eoin Feen scored with an incredible 30 yard lob. Bunratty United travelled to Knockskeagh and defeated Lyre Rovers 3-1 in the last of the quarter final ties. The visitors took an early lead through a Jack Twomey penalty and doubled their advantage shortly before the break with another Twomey effort. Lyre fought back valiantly and pulled one back with a long range Ethan Draper free kick until Bunratty pounced to seal their victory in the dying seconds through a Sonny O'Regan effort.
Skibbereen defeated Leeside 2-0 to qualify for the U16 Cup final in a wind-swept Baltimore road on the 8th of March. Leeside goalkeeper, Shane Galvin, put in a man of the match display with a string of world class saves but couldn’t prevent the cup holders from progressing. An own goal and a late Ger Minihane effort propelled Skibbereen into the final despite an un-inspiring performance. Togher Celtic defeated Bunratty United 4-1 in the second semi final in Togher on the 22nd of March. Celtic’s Diarmuid O'Brien scored the only goal of the first half. Fintan Collins added a second on the hour mark but Bunratty United responded well and pulled a goal back 5 minutes later. The Togher defence held firm and Celtic made sure of the victory with two late goals from Declan Coughlan and Brian O'Sullivan to seal a memorable win.
The WCSL U16 Cup final took place on the 5th of April on the immaculate playing surface in Mullough, Dunmanway between (holders) Skibbereen and Togher Celtic. A solitary strike from ace marksman, Declan Coughlan, won the coveted trophy for Togher after an open, entertaining encounter. In the 22nd minute Cian O'Mahony's superb run and cross was met by a fantastic first-time volley from the in-rushing Coughlan who gave the Skibb goalkeeper no chance with a stunning finish. It was a goal worthy of winning any cup final and despite a gallant fight-back from Skibbereen Togher Celtic eventually ran out deserving winners to claim the SuperValu WCSL U16 Cup for the 2007-08 campaign.
SuperValu WCSL U16 Cup 2007-08 Results:
1st Round: Bay Rovers 1 Bunratty United 5.
Quarter Finals: Clonakilty AFC 2 Leeside 4, Skibbereen 2 Drinagh Rangers 2 (aet Skibb won 6-5 on penalties), Riverside Athletic 0 Togher Celtic 2, Lyre Rovers 1 Bunratty United 3.
Semi Finals: Togher Celtic 4 Bunratty United 1, Skibbereen 2 Leeside 0.
U16 Cup Final: Togher Celtic 1 Skibbereen 0.
West Cork Schoolobys U12 League 2007-08 Review
Clonakilty AFC deservedly lifted the 2007-08 SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys League U12 crown after topping a second play-off ‘group of death’ ahead of Skibbereen and Bunratty United.
SuperValu U12 League
The 2007-08 SuperValu U12 league season saw fourteen teams split into two groups with the top two ranked sides in each group progressing to the SuperValu U12 Play-Offs to decide the destination of the league title. Clonakilty AFC dominated Group1, topping the table with 10 wins from their 12 matches and qualifying for the play-offs in confident fashion. The battle for the second play-off berth was surprisingly won by Leeside who edged out the much-fancied Durrus by two points. Durrus recovered from the disappointment of missing the play-offs to eventually win the U12 Shield tournament by the end of the season. Lyre Rovers, Bay Rovers and Drinagh Rangers each enjoyed decent runs in Group1 but were never consistent enough to mount a serious challenge. Ardfield - playing at U12 level for the first time - found the going extremely tough but battled courageously in every game and proved a credit to their club. U12 Group2 transpired as expected with both Bunratty United and Skibbereen qualifying for the play-offs but not before league debutantes, Dunmanway Town, came mightily close to forcing their way into the top two. The Mullough club topped the table for much of the season but crucially ran out of steam towards the end of the group. Third place is still a remarkable result in Dunmanway’s inaugural season. Riverside Athletic and Togher Celtic failed to mount a sustained challenge and finished mid-table. Clonakilty Youths were outclassed in many of their games while Harbour United folded only two weeks into the season.
SFAI National Cups
The early stages of the West Cork Schoolboys U12 League season saw no less than six clubs enter the Preliminary rounds of the SFAI National Cup competition. Clonakilty AFC fell at the first hurdle at home to Corinthian Boys ‘A’ 5-3 in an eight goal thriller. The five remaining WCSL clubs fared much better with Durrus defeating Park United 4-1 and Bunratty United knocking out Everton 4-0. Drinagh Rangers accounted for Togher 3-1 in an all WCSL tie with goals from Jake King (2) and Gary Lordan earning the home side a deserved victory. Skibbereen recorded the most impressive preliminary round triumph of all the West Cork sides, travelling to Cork and knocking out Crosshaven 4-3. The first round of SFAI matches took place in October with Skibbereen and Bunratty each recording notable wins. Skibb knocked out Rockmount in the Baltimore Road 4-1 after a fantastic team display. Bunratty travelled to Midleton and won a ten goal extravaganza 6-4 in Knockgriffin. Conor O'Driscoll scored 4 and Arron Barry grabbed a brace for the Schull side. Macroom ended Drinagh’s cup run in Cannon Crowley Park 3-1 while Durrus failed to field a team for the trip to Springfield Ramblers who were subsequently awarded a walkover.
Mayfield United ended Bunratty United’s interest in the competition in Town Park, Schull in November. The city side proved too strong for an under-strength United and ran out 5-3 winners. On the same day Skibbereen progressed to the last four of the Cork section following a superb 4-2 victory at home to Riverstown. Stephen McCarthy (2), Sean Deasy and Owen Collins found the net for Skibb in a famous win. The Baltimore Road club’s National Cup journey was finally ended by a star-studded Lakewood U12 outfit in December following a 3-2 defeat. Late goals from Sean Deasy and Stephen McCarthy proved immaterial but Skibb’s SFAI National Cup run turned out to be one of the highlights of a tremendous season for the West Cork club.
SuperValu U12 Play-Offs
The SuperValu U12 Play-Offs kicked off in April with Bunratty United edging Clonakilty AFC 3-2 following an ill-tempered affair in Town Park, Scull. Skibbereen proved too strong for Leeside in the opening round winning 4-1 thanks to a hat-trick from the prolific Stephen McCarthy and a late effort from Mark Collins. The Inchigeela side were effectively knocked out of the Play-Offs following a 9-1 drubbing away to Bunratty in May with the mercurial Conor O’Driscoll weighing in with 4 of Bunratty’s total. Clonakilty AFC recovered from their defeat to Bunratty to overpower a disappointing Skibbereen side 5-2 in Ballyvackey. Jack O'Mahony notched a hat-trick while Jack Cowhig and Eoin Ryan completed the scoring for Clon. The final round of play-off fixtures saw Bunratty ravel to the Baltimore Road knowing a draw would be enough to capture the league title. Skibbereen had other ideas and ran out 8-4 winners after a tremendous game. Owen Collins (3), Stephen McCarthy (2), Sean Deasy (2 Pens) and Sean O'Donovan found the net for Skibb while Conor O'Driscoll (3) and Josh Pickett responded for a shell-shocked United. Clonakilty AFC’s expected win at home to Leeside (5-2) meant there was a three way tie for the U12 League Championship so another play-off group was needed to decide a winner from Clon AFC, Skibb and Bunratty.
SuperValu U12 Play-Off Deciders
Bunratty United and Skibbereen share thee points in the opening match of the SuperValu U12 Play-Off Deciders in Town Park Schull. A Fionn Hurley penalty cancelled out a Stephen McCarthy effort in a tight affair. Three days later Clonakilty AFC gained revenge over Bunratty United for their 5-2 defeat in the play-offs to record a hard fought 2-1 victory before a huge crowd in Ballyvackey. A last minute goal from Jack O’Mahony effectively knocked Bunratty out of the title race and set up a winner take all encounter with Skibbereen on the 19th of May. The destination of the title was finally decided following a pulsating 3-3 draw in the Baltimore Road Ground with Clon AFC grabbing a point away to Skibb to secure the U12 Championship. Goals from Eoin Ryan and a brace from Jack Cowhig brought the league crown back to Clonakilty following an unforgettable season for the Ballyvackey-based club.
SuperValu U12 League
The 2007-08 SuperValu U12 league season saw fourteen teams split into two groups with the top two ranked sides in each group progressing to the SuperValu U12 Play-Offs to decide the destination of the league title. Clonakilty AFC dominated Group1, topping the table with 10 wins from their 12 matches and qualifying for the play-offs in confident fashion. The battle for the second play-off berth was surprisingly won by Leeside who edged out the much-fancied Durrus by two points. Durrus recovered from the disappointment of missing the play-offs to eventually win the U12 Shield tournament by the end of the season. Lyre Rovers, Bay Rovers and Drinagh Rangers each enjoyed decent runs in Group1 but were never consistent enough to mount a serious challenge. Ardfield - playing at U12 level for the first time - found the going extremely tough but battled courageously in every game and proved a credit to their club. U12 Group2 transpired as expected with both Bunratty United and Skibbereen qualifying for the play-offs but not before league debutantes, Dunmanway Town, came mightily close to forcing their way into the top two. The Mullough club topped the table for much of the season but crucially ran out of steam towards the end of the group. Third place is still a remarkable result in Dunmanway’s inaugural season. Riverside Athletic and Togher Celtic failed to mount a sustained challenge and finished mid-table. Clonakilty Youths were outclassed in many of their games while Harbour United folded only two weeks into the season.
SFAI National Cups
The early stages of the West Cork Schoolboys U12 League season saw no less than six clubs enter the Preliminary rounds of the SFAI National Cup competition. Clonakilty AFC fell at the first hurdle at home to Corinthian Boys ‘A’ 5-3 in an eight goal thriller. The five remaining WCSL clubs fared much better with Durrus defeating Park United 4-1 and Bunratty United knocking out Everton 4-0. Drinagh Rangers accounted for Togher 3-1 in an all WCSL tie with goals from Jake King (2) and Gary Lordan earning the home side a deserved victory. Skibbereen recorded the most impressive preliminary round triumph of all the West Cork sides, travelling to Cork and knocking out Crosshaven 4-3. The first round of SFAI matches took place in October with Skibbereen and Bunratty each recording notable wins. Skibb knocked out Rockmount in the Baltimore Road 4-1 after a fantastic team display. Bunratty travelled to Midleton and won a ten goal extravaganza 6-4 in Knockgriffin. Conor O'Driscoll scored 4 and Arron Barry grabbed a brace for the Schull side. Macroom ended Drinagh’s cup run in Cannon Crowley Park 3-1 while Durrus failed to field a team for the trip to Springfield Ramblers who were subsequently awarded a walkover.
Mayfield United ended Bunratty United’s interest in the competition in Town Park, Schull in November. The city side proved too strong for an under-strength United and ran out 5-3 winners. On the same day Skibbereen progressed to the last four of the Cork section following a superb 4-2 victory at home to Riverstown. Stephen McCarthy (2), Sean Deasy and Owen Collins found the net for Skibb in a famous win. The Baltimore Road club’s National Cup journey was finally ended by a star-studded Lakewood U12 outfit in December following a 3-2 defeat. Late goals from Sean Deasy and Stephen McCarthy proved immaterial but Skibb’s SFAI National Cup run turned out to be one of the highlights of a tremendous season for the West Cork club.
SuperValu U12 Play-Offs
The SuperValu U12 Play-Offs kicked off in April with Bunratty United edging Clonakilty AFC 3-2 following an ill-tempered affair in Town Park, Scull. Skibbereen proved too strong for Leeside in the opening round winning 4-1 thanks to a hat-trick from the prolific Stephen McCarthy and a late effort from Mark Collins. The Inchigeela side were effectively knocked out of the Play-Offs following a 9-1 drubbing away to Bunratty in May with the mercurial Conor O’Driscoll weighing in with 4 of Bunratty’s total. Clonakilty AFC recovered from their defeat to Bunratty to overpower a disappointing Skibbereen side 5-2 in Ballyvackey. Jack O'Mahony notched a hat-trick while Jack Cowhig and Eoin Ryan completed the scoring for Clon. The final round of play-off fixtures saw Bunratty ravel to the Baltimore Road knowing a draw would be enough to capture the league title. Skibbereen had other ideas and ran out 8-4 winners after a tremendous game. Owen Collins (3), Stephen McCarthy (2), Sean Deasy (2 Pens) and Sean O'Donovan found the net for Skibb while Conor O'Driscoll (3) and Josh Pickett responded for a shell-shocked United. Clonakilty AFC’s expected win at home to Leeside (5-2) meant there was a three way tie for the U12 League Championship so another play-off group was needed to decide a winner from Clon AFC, Skibb and Bunratty.
SuperValu U12 Play-Off Deciders
Bunratty United and Skibbereen share thee points in the opening match of the SuperValu U12 Play-Off Deciders in Town Park Schull. A Fionn Hurley penalty cancelled out a Stephen McCarthy effort in a tight affair. Three days later Clonakilty AFC gained revenge over Bunratty United for their 5-2 defeat in the play-offs to record a hard fought 2-1 victory before a huge crowd in Ballyvackey. A last minute goal from Jack O’Mahony effectively knocked Bunratty out of the title race and set up a winner take all encounter with Skibbereen on the 19th of May. The destination of the title was finally decided following a pulsating 3-3 draw in the Baltimore Road Ground with Clon AFC grabbing a point away to Skibb to secure the U12 Championship. Goals from Eoin Ryan and a brace from Jack Cowhig brought the league crown back to Clonakilty following an unforgettable season for the Ballyvackey-based club.
WCSL 2007-08 U14 League Review
Lyre Rovers rounded off a terrific year for the Knockskeagh club by defeating Togher Celtic 4-1 in a SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys U14 Play-Off decider in Ballyvackey on the 10th of May to lift the SuperValu U14 League title.
SuperValu U14 League
The WCSL U14 League kicked off back in September with 11 clubs vying for the SuperValu U14 League title. The top four ranked clubs then moved forward to the SuperValu Play-Offs to decide the eventual Champions in a round-robin tournament. Skibbereen topped the league table at the end of March with 9 wins and 1 draw after an extraordinary season. Lyre Rovers finished only 4 points behind the Baltimore Road club with Bunratty United and Togher Celtic rounding off the Play-Off berths. Riverside Athletic and Bay Rovers were disappointed to miss the play-offs by only a single point despite each club enjoying decent league campaigns. Drinagh Rangers finished a disappointing 7th for the Cannon Crowley Park club who had won the U14 double the season before. Rangers still managed to enjoy a decent run in the SFAI National Cup and deservedly lifted the SuperValu U14 Shield in May. Clonakilty AFC, Clonakilty AFC Youths and newcomers Ballydehob found the going tough and finished in the bottom half of the league while Harbour United folded only a few weeks into the season.
SFAI National Cups
One of the highlights of the 2007-08 campaign turned out to be both Skibbereen and Drinagh Rangers U14’s remarkable run in the SFAI National Cup. In September’s Preliminary Round Greenwood knocked out a gallant Ballydehob (3-0), Ardmore defeated Clonakilty AFC and Ringmahon accounted for Togher Celtic. The WCSL enjoyed opening round success with Drinagh overcoming the challenge of Springfield Ramblers (4-1), Skibbereen travelling to Inishvilla and winning a 5 goal thriller (3-2), while Bay Rovers and Bunratty United accounted for Glounthaune United (3-1) and Castleview (4-1) respectively.
Kilreen Celtic brought an end to Bunratty United’s run on October 20th following a 4-2 victory in Schull. Bay Rovers were also eliminated at the first round stage with Rockmount scoring 4 times without reply in Kealkil. It was left to Skibbereen and Drinagh to fly the flag for West Cork with the Baltimore Road side recording an emphatic 7-0 win away to Ardmore and Drinagh picking up a memorable 2-1 victory away to Greenwood. Round 3 of the SFAI National cup saw Skibbereen continue their marvellous run with a 6-0 demolition of Buttevant. Drinagh Rangers were finally knocked out after 3-1 defeat to Corinthian Boys in Cannon Crowley Park. Skibbereen’s extraordinary odyssey in the National Cup finally came to halt on the 15th of December when the visiting Ballincollig proved too strong for an under-strength West Cork outfit (4-1). Overall, the West Cork Schoolboys League sides proved more than a match for most CSL opposition throughout the early rounds of the U14 National Cup. The collective 2007-08 performances are hugely encouraging heading into the upcoming 2008-09 National Cup competitions.
SuperValu U14 Play-Offs
Lyre Rovers entertained Bunratty United in the opening match of the SuperValu U14 Play-Offs on April 12th. The host produced a blistering display to upset the favourites from Schull (5-2). Kevin Cormican and Eoin Hartnett each weighed in with braces while Ethan Draper added a fifth for the home side. Eddie Goggin replied with two goals for a depleted Bunratty. Togher Celtic repeated the same 5-2 score-line at home to Skibbereen a week later in Togher. Mark Quinn notched a hat-trick with Daniel Twomey and David O’Brien completing the scoring in a memorable win for Celtic. A shell-shocked Skibbereen’s goals came from Dan MacEoin and Kevin Davis.
The second round of U14 Play-Off fixtures took place on Saturday the 26th of April with Lyre and Togher repeating their opening day heroics. Lyre Rovers defeated Skibbereen 4-2 in a six goal thriller in Knockskeagh. The match turned out to be one of the games of the season at U14 level with two fully committed sides playing superb football throughout and each contributing to a magnificent spectacle. Kevin Davis beat John Leahy to a long ball into the Lyre penalty area and headed into the net for an early 1-0 Skibbereen lead. James Hayes levelled for the hosts before expertly chipping the Skibbereen goalkeeper from the tightest of angles to put the home side 2-1 up at the interval. Ethan Draper sent an unstoppable 25 free-kick into the top corner of the net for a remarkable goal and a 3-1 lead five minutes after the break. Dan MacEoin brought it back to 3-2 before James Hayes grabbed his hat-trick to end an exciting encounter. On the same day Togher travelled to Schull and came away with all 3 points in a pulsating 2-1 victory over Bunratty United. Gavin McEntaggart put Bunratty 1-0 ahead but Shane Cotter equalised and Maurice Murphy won the game with a late header to setup a home clash with Lyre Rovers to decide the outcome of the U14 League title.
Togher and Lyre played out an entertaining 1-1 draw in Togher on the 5th of May. The result meant the two sides would have to square up once again to decide the U14 title as both teams finished level on points joint-top of the SuperValu U14 Play-Off table. Daniel Twomey put Togher ahead only for Ethan Draper to equalise from the penalty spot just before half time in what turned out to be a tense match.
SuperValu U14 Decider
Rovers finally got their hands on the coveted league trophy following a well deserved 4-1 victory over Togher in a SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys U14 Play-Off decider in Ballyvackey on the 11th of May. Togher grabbed the lead against the run of play with the lively Mark Quinn netting. Rovers demonstrated their undoubted talent and resolve to fight back and score 4 times to secure the U14 league crown. James Hayes (2), Scott Sheehan and Kevin Cormican each netted to bring the SuperValu U14 League title to Knockskeagh for the first time in the club’s history.
SuperValu U14 League
The WCSL U14 League kicked off back in September with 11 clubs vying for the SuperValu U14 League title. The top four ranked clubs then moved forward to the SuperValu Play-Offs to decide the eventual Champions in a round-robin tournament. Skibbereen topped the league table at the end of March with 9 wins and 1 draw after an extraordinary season. Lyre Rovers finished only 4 points behind the Baltimore Road club with Bunratty United and Togher Celtic rounding off the Play-Off berths. Riverside Athletic and Bay Rovers were disappointed to miss the play-offs by only a single point despite each club enjoying decent league campaigns. Drinagh Rangers finished a disappointing 7th for the Cannon Crowley Park club who had won the U14 double the season before. Rangers still managed to enjoy a decent run in the SFAI National Cup and deservedly lifted the SuperValu U14 Shield in May. Clonakilty AFC, Clonakilty AFC Youths and newcomers Ballydehob found the going tough and finished in the bottom half of the league while Harbour United folded only a few weeks into the season.
SFAI National Cups
One of the highlights of the 2007-08 campaign turned out to be both Skibbereen and Drinagh Rangers U14’s remarkable run in the SFAI National Cup. In September’s Preliminary Round Greenwood knocked out a gallant Ballydehob (3-0), Ardmore defeated Clonakilty AFC and Ringmahon accounted for Togher Celtic. The WCSL enjoyed opening round success with Drinagh overcoming the challenge of Springfield Ramblers (4-1), Skibbereen travelling to Inishvilla and winning a 5 goal thriller (3-2), while Bay Rovers and Bunratty United accounted for Glounthaune United (3-1) and Castleview (4-1) respectively.
Kilreen Celtic brought an end to Bunratty United’s run on October 20th following a 4-2 victory in Schull. Bay Rovers were also eliminated at the first round stage with Rockmount scoring 4 times without reply in Kealkil. It was left to Skibbereen and Drinagh to fly the flag for West Cork with the Baltimore Road side recording an emphatic 7-0 win away to Ardmore and Drinagh picking up a memorable 2-1 victory away to Greenwood. Round 3 of the SFAI National cup saw Skibbereen continue their marvellous run with a 6-0 demolition of Buttevant. Drinagh Rangers were finally knocked out after 3-1 defeat to Corinthian Boys in Cannon Crowley Park. Skibbereen’s extraordinary odyssey in the National Cup finally came to halt on the 15th of December when the visiting Ballincollig proved too strong for an under-strength West Cork outfit (4-1). Overall, the West Cork Schoolboys League sides proved more than a match for most CSL opposition throughout the early rounds of the U14 National Cup. The collective 2007-08 performances are hugely encouraging heading into the upcoming 2008-09 National Cup competitions.
SuperValu U14 Play-Offs
Lyre Rovers entertained Bunratty United in the opening match of the SuperValu U14 Play-Offs on April 12th. The host produced a blistering display to upset the favourites from Schull (5-2). Kevin Cormican and Eoin Hartnett each weighed in with braces while Ethan Draper added a fifth for the home side. Eddie Goggin replied with two goals for a depleted Bunratty. Togher Celtic repeated the same 5-2 score-line at home to Skibbereen a week later in Togher. Mark Quinn notched a hat-trick with Daniel Twomey and David O’Brien completing the scoring in a memorable win for Celtic. A shell-shocked Skibbereen’s goals came from Dan MacEoin and Kevin Davis.
The second round of U14 Play-Off fixtures took place on Saturday the 26th of April with Lyre and Togher repeating their opening day heroics. Lyre Rovers defeated Skibbereen 4-2 in a six goal thriller in Knockskeagh. The match turned out to be one of the games of the season at U14 level with two fully committed sides playing superb football throughout and each contributing to a magnificent spectacle. Kevin Davis beat John Leahy to a long ball into the Lyre penalty area and headed into the net for an early 1-0 Skibbereen lead. James Hayes levelled for the hosts before expertly chipping the Skibbereen goalkeeper from the tightest of angles to put the home side 2-1 up at the interval. Ethan Draper sent an unstoppable 25 free-kick into the top corner of the net for a remarkable goal and a 3-1 lead five minutes after the break. Dan MacEoin brought it back to 3-2 before James Hayes grabbed his hat-trick to end an exciting encounter. On the same day Togher travelled to Schull and came away with all 3 points in a pulsating 2-1 victory over Bunratty United. Gavin McEntaggart put Bunratty 1-0 ahead but Shane Cotter equalised and Maurice Murphy won the game with a late header to setup a home clash with Lyre Rovers to decide the outcome of the U14 League title.
Togher and Lyre played out an entertaining 1-1 draw in Togher on the 5th of May. The result meant the two sides would have to square up once again to decide the U14 title as both teams finished level on points joint-top of the SuperValu U14 Play-Off table. Daniel Twomey put Togher ahead only for Ethan Draper to equalise from the penalty spot just before half time in what turned out to be a tense match.
SuperValu U14 Decider
Rovers finally got their hands on the coveted league trophy following a well deserved 4-1 victory over Togher in a SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys U14 Play-Off decider in Ballyvackey on the 11th of May. Togher grabbed the lead against the run of play with the lively Mark Quinn netting. Rovers demonstrated their undoubted talent and resolve to fight back and score 4 times to secure the U14 league crown. James Hayes (2), Scott Sheehan and Kevin Cormican each netted to bring the SuperValu U14 League title to Knockskeagh for the first time in the club’s history.
SFAI - WCSL Futsal Tournament in Clonakilty
The FAI in conjunction with the SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys League ran the first ever one-day FUTSAL mini-tournament in the Clonakilty Sports Complex Astro Pitch recently.
The idea of the tournament was to promote the game of FUTSAL (non-contact, mini-football, encouraging close control and skill) in a 7-a-side competition. The Bay Rovers, Clonakilty AFC and Riverside Athletic clubs sent representative teams to take part in the inaugural event for the West Cork region. FAI Regional Development Officer, Ray Claffey, structured the day’s events once the number of confirmed entries had arrived at the superb Clonakilty Astro turf venue.
WHAT IS FUTSAL?
Futsal is the official FIFA and UEFA version of indoor 5 a side football and indeed the only internationally recognised small sided game. The word “Futsal” comes from the Portuguese phrase “futebol de salao” or the Spanish, “futbol de sala” which basically means indoor football. The main feature of the game is the ball which is a size 4 slightly weighted leather ball with restricted bounce rather than the fluffy, bouncy, yellow ball traditional to the indoor game in Ireland.
The FAI launched the country’s first ever Futsal Development Programme back in December of last year, which set out a method to improve the technical skills of young players throughout the country. The new programme (part of the FAI Technical Development Plan) was launched by UEFA President and former French International star, Michel Platini. According to the FAI website: “The main aim of the Programme is to establish Futsal as the preferred version of five-a-side football in Ireland and to increase and sustain participation at all ages and ability levels by promoting and developing the game as a complementary format of football within the football family. The game allows players to improve their technical skills as it requires quick thinking and rapid decision making facilitating the development of overall football intelligence.”
There was a surprise in store for each of the young participants who attended the mini-tournament in the Clonakilty Sports Complex when Cork City stars, Colin O'Brien and Mick Devine arrived to present Certificates and pose for photographs. Colin O'Brien and Ray Claffey took time at the end of the competition to conduct a lively questions and answers session with the attending players discussing the merits of FUTSAL.
Every player who attended the tournament expressed their satisfaction with the event and offered encouraging feedback to the organisers. The mini-tournament turned out to be such a resounding success that the West Cork Schoolboys League - with the help of the FAI - hope to arrange further FUTSAL events during the forthcoming 2008-2009 season.
FUTSAL SQUADS
Bay Rovers: Ayrton O'Shea, Mark Hine, Joe Murphy, Shane Delaney, Donal Casey and Darren Cronin.
Clonakilty AFC: Fergus Jayes, Patrick McCarthy, Mark Crowley, Damien O'Brien, Daniel Kelleher, Stephen Madden, Colm O'Donovan, Jack McCarthy and Daniel Lane.
Riverside Athletic: Jack O'Callaghan, Shane O'Driscoll, Finghin O'Driscoll, Ray O'Connor, Kevin O'Neill, Mark Kingston, Sean Jackson and Gavin O'Leary.
The idea of the tournament was to promote the game of FUTSAL (non-contact, mini-football, encouraging close control and skill) in a 7-a-side competition. The Bay Rovers, Clonakilty AFC and Riverside Athletic clubs sent representative teams to take part in the inaugural event for the West Cork region. FAI Regional Development Officer, Ray Claffey, structured the day’s events once the number of confirmed entries had arrived at the superb Clonakilty Astro turf venue.
WHAT IS FUTSAL?
Futsal is the official FIFA and UEFA version of indoor 5 a side football and indeed the only internationally recognised small sided game. The word “Futsal” comes from the Portuguese phrase “futebol de salao” or the Spanish, “futbol de sala” which basically means indoor football. The main feature of the game is the ball which is a size 4 slightly weighted leather ball with restricted bounce rather than the fluffy, bouncy, yellow ball traditional to the indoor game in Ireland.
The FAI launched the country’s first ever Futsal Development Programme back in December of last year, which set out a method to improve the technical skills of young players throughout the country. The new programme (part of the FAI Technical Development Plan) was launched by UEFA President and former French International star, Michel Platini. According to the FAI website: “The main aim of the Programme is to establish Futsal as the preferred version of five-a-side football in Ireland and to increase and sustain participation at all ages and ability levels by promoting and developing the game as a complementary format of football within the football family. The game allows players to improve their technical skills as it requires quick thinking and rapid decision making facilitating the development of overall football intelligence.”
There was a surprise in store for each of the young participants who attended the mini-tournament in the Clonakilty Sports Complex when Cork City stars, Colin O'Brien and Mick Devine arrived to present Certificates and pose for photographs. Colin O'Brien and Ray Claffey took time at the end of the competition to conduct a lively questions and answers session with the attending players discussing the merits of FUTSAL.
Every player who attended the tournament expressed their satisfaction with the event and offered encouraging feedback to the organisers. The mini-tournament turned out to be such a resounding success that the West Cork Schoolboys League - with the help of the FAI - hope to arrange further FUTSAL events during the forthcoming 2008-2009 season.
FUTSAL SQUADS
Bay Rovers: Ayrton O'Shea, Mark Hine, Joe Murphy, Shane Delaney, Donal Casey and Darren Cronin.
Clonakilty AFC: Fergus Jayes, Patrick McCarthy, Mark Crowley, Damien O'Brien, Daniel Kelleher, Stephen Madden, Colm O'Donovan, Jack McCarthy and Daniel Lane.
Riverside Athletic: Jack O'Callaghan, Shane O'Driscoll, Finghin O'Driscoll, Ray O'Connor, Kevin O'Neill, Mark Kingston, Sean Jackson and Gavin O'Leary.
WCSL 2007-08 U16 League Review
Riverside Athletic made it two U16 League title wins on the trot following the most dramatic of conclusions to the 2007-08 SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys U16 League season. The Balineen based club came back from the dead to snatch the league crown from the grasp of Togher Celtic in a pulsating finale on the final day of the SuperValu U16 Play-Offs.
National Cups
The early stages of the SuperValu WCSL U16 season began with 6 West Cork clubs entering the SFAI National Cup tournament. Four teams fell at the first hurdle with Cobh Ramblers proving too strong for Skibbereen (7-1), Leeds accounting for Bay Rovers (3-0) and Castleview receiving a walkover from Clonakilty AFC. The only two West Cork clubs to progress from the Preliminary Round were Drinagh Rangers who overcame the challenge of Buttevant 4-1 thanks to goals from Jamie Walsh, Daniel Hayes, Paul Crowley and Shane Connolly. Bunratty United defeated Togher Celtic in a West Cork derby following a pulsating encounter and a penalty shoot-out to progress to the first round proper. Sean Deasy and Dan O’Sullivan scored for Togher and Jack Twomey and Ger O’Callaghan netted for Bunratty. At 7-7 in the shootout Daniel Hickey saved for United before Michael Bailey made sure of the win with the decisive spot kick. Disappointingly neither Drinagh nor Bunratty were able to field teams in the first round, handing Ballincollig and Cobh Ramblers walkovers and an automatic passage into the second round.
SuperValu U16 League
Togher Celtic topped the SuperValu U16 League table at the end of the regular season, remaining unbeaten with 7 wins and 2 draws from their campaign. Togher’s Cian O’Mahony and Declan Coughlan proved a lethal strike-force combining to score over 15 goals. Drinagh Rangers finished second (also remaining undefeated) with Gavin Connolly topping their goal-scoring charts. Reigning Champions Riverside Athletic finished third with Bunratty United securing the fourth and final play-off spot. There was disappointment for Skibbereen who just missed out on a place in the play-offs by a mere 2 points. Lyre Rovers enjoyed an indifferent League campaign but still managed to secure the U16 Shield trophy before the end of the season. Clonakilty AFC, Bay Rovers, Leeside and Harbour United rarely challenged the front-runners and will hope to improve on their lowly league positions for the upcoming 2008-09 campaign.
The Play-Offs
The first round of the SuperValu U16 Play-Offs exploded into life on April the 19th with an amazing 11 goals in the opening games. Cian O'Mahony grabbed a last minute winner for Togher Celtic after an absolutely pulsating game with Bunratty United in Town Park, Schull. Togher came back from 2-0 down to score twice in the final 5 minutes and win a dramatic encounter 3-2. Gavin McEntaggart broke the deadlock in the 17th minute to put Bunratty 1-0 ahead. Declan Coughlan curled in a terrific effort to tie the scores until Bunratty retook the lead in the 45th minute when Simian Lipitch pounced from 6 yards. Cian O’Mahony made no mistake with a super strike from the edge of the box following a mix-up in the Bunratty defence to level the game. O’Mahony then raced clear of a static defence and sent an unstoppable shot into the net to win a pulsating encounter. On the same afternoon it finished honours even between Riverside Athletic and Drinagh Rangers following a 6-goal thriller in the West End Balineen. Michael Dineen opened the scoring only for Riverside to equalise early in the second half with Michael O'Driscoll netting. Athletic went 3-1 ahead thanks to a fine Brian McCarthy effort and then a second from the in-form O'Driscoll. The home side looked to have the points wrapped up until Drinagh dramatically fought back to score twice in the last 5 minutes. Derek Crowley netted with a tremendous long range free kick and Gavin Connolly stabbed home in injury time to steal a precious point. Round 2 of the SuperValu Play-Offs saw Bunratty United and Riverside Athletic each record crucial home victories. Bunratty emerged with a hard fought 2-0 victory after a tough encounter with Drinagh Rangers thanks to efforts from Gavin MacEntaggart and Sean Evans. Riverside were made to work even harder for their 3-1 home win over Togher Celtic with John Daly, Rory Baggott and Neville Maybury each finding the net in an exciting match. Cian O’Mahony replied for Celtic
Final Day Drama
The final day of a remarkable SuperValu U16 League season took place on Saturday the 10th of May. Riverside entertained Bunratty United while Togher welcomed Drinagh Rangers. Athletic knew that a victory over fellow title-rivals Bunratty would secure a second consecutive Championship. Anything less would allow Togher back into the equation provided they defeated Drinagh in their final match. Things seemed to be going Togher’s way as they easily accounted for out of sorts Drinagh Rangers 5-1. A commanding performance from the home side culminated in a superb Cian O'Mahony hat-trick along with further efforts from David Collins and Dan O'Sullivan. Daniel Hayes was Rangers solitary scorer. In Balineen Athletic found themselves 3-0 down with only 25 minutes remaining having been played off the park by a quite superb Bunratty United performance. What followed next was by far the most remarkable comeback in the 2007-08 Schoolboys League season. The hosts pulled a goal back through a Rory Baggott penalty but the drama wasn't finished there and when Jason Collins bundled the ball over the line 5 minutes later there was only a solitary goal between the sides. Bunratty were under constant pressure now as Riverside pushed everyone forward. Unbelievably Rory Baggott levelled the game at 3-3 with a thundering volley right on full time. Deep into injury time Baggott stepped forward to curl a marvellous effort into the net to complete his hat trick and win the SuperValu U16 League title for an ecstatic Riverside Athletic. It proved to be a final day full of heartbreak for both Bunratty and Togher but for the second season in a row Riverside Athletic stand proudly at the summit of the SuperValu U16 League.
National Cups
The early stages of the SuperValu WCSL U16 season began with 6 West Cork clubs entering the SFAI National Cup tournament. Four teams fell at the first hurdle with Cobh Ramblers proving too strong for Skibbereen (7-1), Leeds accounting for Bay Rovers (3-0) and Castleview receiving a walkover from Clonakilty AFC. The only two West Cork clubs to progress from the Preliminary Round were Drinagh Rangers who overcame the challenge of Buttevant 4-1 thanks to goals from Jamie Walsh, Daniel Hayes, Paul Crowley and Shane Connolly. Bunratty United defeated Togher Celtic in a West Cork derby following a pulsating encounter and a penalty shoot-out to progress to the first round proper. Sean Deasy and Dan O’Sullivan scored for Togher and Jack Twomey and Ger O’Callaghan netted for Bunratty. At 7-7 in the shootout Daniel Hickey saved for United before Michael Bailey made sure of the win with the decisive spot kick. Disappointingly neither Drinagh nor Bunratty were able to field teams in the first round, handing Ballincollig and Cobh Ramblers walkovers and an automatic passage into the second round.
SuperValu U16 League
Togher Celtic topped the SuperValu U16 League table at the end of the regular season, remaining unbeaten with 7 wins and 2 draws from their campaign. Togher’s Cian O’Mahony and Declan Coughlan proved a lethal strike-force combining to score over 15 goals. Drinagh Rangers finished second (also remaining undefeated) with Gavin Connolly topping their goal-scoring charts. Reigning Champions Riverside Athletic finished third with Bunratty United securing the fourth and final play-off spot. There was disappointment for Skibbereen who just missed out on a place in the play-offs by a mere 2 points. Lyre Rovers enjoyed an indifferent League campaign but still managed to secure the U16 Shield trophy before the end of the season. Clonakilty AFC, Bay Rovers, Leeside and Harbour United rarely challenged the front-runners and will hope to improve on their lowly league positions for the upcoming 2008-09 campaign.
The Play-Offs
The first round of the SuperValu U16 Play-Offs exploded into life on April the 19th with an amazing 11 goals in the opening games. Cian O'Mahony grabbed a last minute winner for Togher Celtic after an absolutely pulsating game with Bunratty United in Town Park, Schull. Togher came back from 2-0 down to score twice in the final 5 minutes and win a dramatic encounter 3-2. Gavin McEntaggart broke the deadlock in the 17th minute to put Bunratty 1-0 ahead. Declan Coughlan curled in a terrific effort to tie the scores until Bunratty retook the lead in the 45th minute when Simian Lipitch pounced from 6 yards. Cian O’Mahony made no mistake with a super strike from the edge of the box following a mix-up in the Bunratty defence to level the game. O’Mahony then raced clear of a static defence and sent an unstoppable shot into the net to win a pulsating encounter. On the same afternoon it finished honours even between Riverside Athletic and Drinagh Rangers following a 6-goal thriller in the West End Balineen. Michael Dineen opened the scoring only for Riverside to equalise early in the second half with Michael O'Driscoll netting. Athletic went 3-1 ahead thanks to a fine Brian McCarthy effort and then a second from the in-form O'Driscoll. The home side looked to have the points wrapped up until Drinagh dramatically fought back to score twice in the last 5 minutes. Derek Crowley netted with a tremendous long range free kick and Gavin Connolly stabbed home in injury time to steal a precious point. Round 2 of the SuperValu Play-Offs saw Bunratty United and Riverside Athletic each record crucial home victories. Bunratty emerged with a hard fought 2-0 victory after a tough encounter with Drinagh Rangers thanks to efforts from Gavin MacEntaggart and Sean Evans. Riverside were made to work even harder for their 3-1 home win over Togher Celtic with John Daly, Rory Baggott and Neville Maybury each finding the net in an exciting match. Cian O’Mahony replied for Celtic
Final Day Drama
The final day of a remarkable SuperValu U16 League season took place on Saturday the 10th of May. Riverside entertained Bunratty United while Togher welcomed Drinagh Rangers. Athletic knew that a victory over fellow title-rivals Bunratty would secure a second consecutive Championship. Anything less would allow Togher back into the equation provided they defeated Drinagh in their final match. Things seemed to be going Togher’s way as they easily accounted for out of sorts Drinagh Rangers 5-1. A commanding performance from the home side culminated in a superb Cian O'Mahony hat-trick along with further efforts from David Collins and Dan O'Sullivan. Daniel Hayes was Rangers solitary scorer. In Balineen Athletic found themselves 3-0 down with only 25 minutes remaining having been played off the park by a quite superb Bunratty United performance. What followed next was by far the most remarkable comeback in the 2007-08 Schoolboys League season. The hosts pulled a goal back through a Rory Baggott penalty but the drama wasn't finished there and when Jason Collins bundled the ball over the line 5 minutes later there was only a solitary goal between the sides. Bunratty were under constant pressure now as Riverside pushed everyone forward. Unbelievably Rory Baggott levelled the game at 3-3 with a thundering volley right on full time. Deep into injury time Baggott stepped forward to curl a marvellous effort into the net to complete his hat trick and win the SuperValu U16 League title for an ecstatic Riverside Athletic. It proved to be a final day full of heartbreak for both Bunratty and Togher but for the second season in a row Riverside Athletic stand proudly at the summit of the SuperValu U16 League.
West Cork Schoolboys League Kennedy Cup 2008 Review
The West Cork Schoolboys League Under13 representative side completed their involvement in this season’s SFAI UMBRO Kennedy Cup tournament with back to back wins over the Carlow and North Tipperary Schoolboys Leagues in Limerick last week.
It brought a positive end to a frustrating week for the West Cork outfit who never earned the results their attractive football deserved. Drawn in Group7 along with the North Eastern Counties (NEC), Longford and Galway Schoolboy Leagues, West Cork opened their account with a well deserved draw against NEC on the 9th of June. A tight opening half ended scoreless with little to choose between the sides. The WCSL broke the deadlock a quarter of an hour into the second period with a well constructed goal. Tadgh O’Mahony found the net with a neat finish following good approach play from Conor O’Neill. West Cork failed to capitalise on their lead and allowed NEC to equalise only five minutes after hitting the front. A mix-up in defence allowed an NEC striker to pounce on some hesitant defending to chip Liam Cahalane and tie the score at 1-1. Despite both sides creating a host of chances the game eventually ended in a draw.
The second round of Group7 matches on the 10th of June produced some surprising results. NEC defeated the much fancied Galway and West Cork lost 2-0 to a spirited Longford performance. The WCSL spurned a great opportunity to take the lead during a dominant opening half when Gavin O’Shea saw his penalty brilliantly saved by the Longford goalkeeper. The Leinster side rallied to score twice and take all 3 points following a determined second half display despite West Cork dominating possession for long periods. The early morning results meant WCSL needed to defeat Galway in their final evening Group7 fixture to have any chance of making the Kennedy Cup quarter finals. Alas, the Connacht and top-ranked side in the group proved too strong and emerged with a 2-1 victory. Galway raced into an early 2-0 lead to leave their opponents with a mountain to climb. West Cork put in a terrific second half performance and deservedly pulled a goal back through Gavin O’Shea spot-kick but it proved too little too late.
West Cork emerged from a string of disappointing results in Group7 to face West Waterford / East Cork in the knockout phase of the competition on Wednesday the 11th of June with the two sides clashing in the quarter final of the Kennedy Trophy. WWEC took control of the game early on and enjoyed a 2-0 lead going into the second half. West Cork fought back with another cracking second half performance and took the game to penalties following goals from Conor O’Neill and Ian Falvey. WWEC eventually emerged with the victory following a tense 4-3 shootout to send the WCSL into the Trophy Play-Offs and end their last hope of any silverware. Carlow provided the opposition on the 12th of June in the first of the Kennedy Trophy play-offs. A single Kevin Davis strike earned West Cork their first victory of the tournament and the relief was evident at the final whistle. The WCSL saved their best performance of the week for their final fixture against North Tipperary Schoolboys. Connor O’Driscoll put the WCSL 1-0 ahead in the second minute with a fine effort. North Tipp levelled just before the interval only for O’Driscoll to round the goalkeeper and restore West Cork's advantage early in the second period. The Bunratty United striker completed his hat-trick with a fantastic individual effort midway through the second half to put West Cork 3-1 ahead. North Tipp demonstrated admirable battling qualities to reduce the deficit to a single goal until Kevin Davis made sure of the win in the dying moments of the game and earn West Cork a deserved 4-2 victory.
Some of the individual players who stood out during the competition for West Cork included Adam Collins (Bunratty United) who impressed in his central midfield role in each of the games. Brendan O’Dwyer (Skibbereen) and Martin Scally (Clonakilty AFC) were the pick of the defenders while Kevin Davis (Skibbereen) and Tadgh O’Mahony (Ballydehob) played starring roles in midfield. Conor O’Neill (Riverside Athletic) made a telling contribution when introduced as an impact substitute and found the net during the West Waterford/East Cork game. Conor O’Driscoll (Bunratty United) demonstrated his undoubted skills with a superb hat-trick against North Tipperary and worked tirelessly throughout the tournament in his lone striker’s role.
Finishing 29th overall in the Kennedy Cup tournament is a disappointing result for the West Cork Schoolboys League but the squad can hold their heads high having responded to a poor start to play some of the most attractive football in the tournament. It still proved to be a very enjoyable week for the West Cork squad and mentors who will be back again next year determined to improve on this season’s performance. Coach Martin Henwood best summed up the tournament from a West Cork perspective: “Nerves showed in our opening games but once the side grew in confidence we displayed our true potential and played some excellent football”.
2008 SFAI UMBRO Kennedy Cup Results:
Monday 9th June, Group 7: West Cork 1 NEC 1. Tuesday 10th June, Group 7: West Cork 0 Longford 2, Galway 2 West Cork 1. Wednesday 11th June, Kennedy Trophy Quarter Final: WWEC 2 West Cork 2 (WWEC won 4-3 on penalties). Thursday 12th June, Kennedy Trophy Play-Offs: West Cork 1 Carlow 0, West Cork 4 North Tipperary 2.
West Cork squad for 2008 SFAI UMBRO Kennedy Cup: Liam Cahalane, Alfie Hyland (Drinagh Rangers), Martin Scally, Ian Falvey (Clonakilty AFC), Daniel Nyhan (Lyre Rovers), Conor O’Neill, Niall Kelleher (Riverside Athletic), Tadgh O’Mahony, Bosko Minihane (Ballydehob), Gavin O’Shea , Stephen Casey, Ciaran McElhinney (Bay Rovers), Conor O’Driscoll , Adam Collins (Bunratty United), Stephen O’Driscoll (Togher Celtic), Brendan O’Dwyer, Kevin Davis, Daniel Rowell, Brian Leonard and Sean Deasy (Skibbereen). Coaches: Martin Henwood, Conor Uhl and Paddy McCarthy.
It brought a positive end to a frustrating week for the West Cork outfit who never earned the results their attractive football deserved. Drawn in Group7 along with the North Eastern Counties (NEC), Longford and Galway Schoolboy Leagues, West Cork opened their account with a well deserved draw against NEC on the 9th of June. A tight opening half ended scoreless with little to choose between the sides. The WCSL broke the deadlock a quarter of an hour into the second period with a well constructed goal. Tadgh O’Mahony found the net with a neat finish following good approach play from Conor O’Neill. West Cork failed to capitalise on their lead and allowed NEC to equalise only five minutes after hitting the front. A mix-up in defence allowed an NEC striker to pounce on some hesitant defending to chip Liam Cahalane and tie the score at 1-1. Despite both sides creating a host of chances the game eventually ended in a draw.
The second round of Group7 matches on the 10th of June produced some surprising results. NEC defeated the much fancied Galway and West Cork lost 2-0 to a spirited Longford performance. The WCSL spurned a great opportunity to take the lead during a dominant opening half when Gavin O’Shea saw his penalty brilliantly saved by the Longford goalkeeper. The Leinster side rallied to score twice and take all 3 points following a determined second half display despite West Cork dominating possession for long periods. The early morning results meant WCSL needed to defeat Galway in their final evening Group7 fixture to have any chance of making the Kennedy Cup quarter finals. Alas, the Connacht and top-ranked side in the group proved too strong and emerged with a 2-1 victory. Galway raced into an early 2-0 lead to leave their opponents with a mountain to climb. West Cork put in a terrific second half performance and deservedly pulled a goal back through Gavin O’Shea spot-kick but it proved too little too late.
West Cork emerged from a string of disappointing results in Group7 to face West Waterford / East Cork in the knockout phase of the competition on Wednesday the 11th of June with the two sides clashing in the quarter final of the Kennedy Trophy. WWEC took control of the game early on and enjoyed a 2-0 lead going into the second half. West Cork fought back with another cracking second half performance and took the game to penalties following goals from Conor O’Neill and Ian Falvey. WWEC eventually emerged with the victory following a tense 4-3 shootout to send the WCSL into the Trophy Play-Offs and end their last hope of any silverware. Carlow provided the opposition on the 12th of June in the first of the Kennedy Trophy play-offs. A single Kevin Davis strike earned West Cork their first victory of the tournament and the relief was evident at the final whistle. The WCSL saved their best performance of the week for their final fixture against North Tipperary Schoolboys. Connor O’Driscoll put the WCSL 1-0 ahead in the second minute with a fine effort. North Tipp levelled just before the interval only for O’Driscoll to round the goalkeeper and restore West Cork's advantage early in the second period. The Bunratty United striker completed his hat-trick with a fantastic individual effort midway through the second half to put West Cork 3-1 ahead. North Tipp demonstrated admirable battling qualities to reduce the deficit to a single goal until Kevin Davis made sure of the win in the dying moments of the game and earn West Cork a deserved 4-2 victory.
Some of the individual players who stood out during the competition for West Cork included Adam Collins (Bunratty United) who impressed in his central midfield role in each of the games. Brendan O’Dwyer (Skibbereen) and Martin Scally (Clonakilty AFC) were the pick of the defenders while Kevin Davis (Skibbereen) and Tadgh O’Mahony (Ballydehob) played starring roles in midfield. Conor O’Neill (Riverside Athletic) made a telling contribution when introduced as an impact substitute and found the net during the West Waterford/East Cork game. Conor O’Driscoll (Bunratty United) demonstrated his undoubted skills with a superb hat-trick against North Tipperary and worked tirelessly throughout the tournament in his lone striker’s role.
Finishing 29th overall in the Kennedy Cup tournament is a disappointing result for the West Cork Schoolboys League but the squad can hold their heads high having responded to a poor start to play some of the most attractive football in the tournament. It still proved to be a very enjoyable week for the West Cork squad and mentors who will be back again next year determined to improve on this season’s performance. Coach Martin Henwood best summed up the tournament from a West Cork perspective: “Nerves showed in our opening games but once the side grew in confidence we displayed our true potential and played some excellent football”.
2008 SFAI UMBRO Kennedy Cup Results:
Monday 9th June, Group 7: West Cork 1 NEC 1. Tuesday 10th June, Group 7: West Cork 0 Longford 2, Galway 2 West Cork 1. Wednesday 11th June, Kennedy Trophy Quarter Final: WWEC 2 West Cork 2 (WWEC won 4-3 on penalties). Thursday 12th June, Kennedy Trophy Play-Offs: West Cork 1 Carlow 0, West Cork 4 North Tipperary 2.
West Cork squad for 2008 SFAI UMBRO Kennedy Cup: Liam Cahalane, Alfie Hyland (Drinagh Rangers), Martin Scally, Ian Falvey (Clonakilty AFC), Daniel Nyhan (Lyre Rovers), Conor O’Neill, Niall Kelleher (Riverside Athletic), Tadgh O’Mahony, Bosko Minihane (Ballydehob), Gavin O’Shea , Stephen Casey, Ciaran McElhinney (Bay Rovers), Conor O’Driscoll , Adam Collins (Bunratty United), Stephen O’Driscoll (Togher Celtic), Brendan O’Dwyer, Kevin Davis, Daniel Rowell, Brian Leonard and Sean Deasy (Skibbereen). Coaches: Martin Henwood, Conor Uhl and Paddy McCarthy.
Sunday, June 29, 2008
5 Future Stars of the West Cork Schoolboys League
Ger McCarthy, profiles five players from this season’s SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys U12 League, highlighting each player’s potential as a star of the future. Whilst every U12 team in the SuperValu League possess numerous talented individuals within their squad, this article focuses on five players in particular whose performances stood out this season.
The first is a prolific goal-scorer who has terrorised defences all over West Cork this season. The second is the quickest player over 10 yards in the U12 league. The third and fourth are the most prodigious talents for the respective sides and the fifth is one of the most accomplished defenders at his age-grade.
Some of the most gifted young footballers in the West Cork region are currently playing in the SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys U12 league. Five players in particular have lit up the league with their inspirational performances this term. The FAI deserves some credit for their increasing presence at grass-roots level in the West Cork area. Having laid the basic foundations for the future development of Irish football with the publication of the Technical Development Plan in 2004, the FAI has since developed specific strategic plans for Emerging Talent. Their Emerging Talent programme has been a resounding success this year, gathering some of the best underage players in Clonakilty for weekly specialist training in an effort to both improve and enhance their undoubted talents.
Name: Conor O'Driscoll
Club: Bunratty United U12
Position: Striker
Conor O'Driscoll finished top scorer in this season’s SuperValu WCSL U12 League following a remarkable return of over 30 goals for Bunratty United. The prolific striker netted over 20 league, 7 National Cup and 6 U12 Cup strikes for Bunratty in a memorable campaign. The young striker capped off a tremendous year by being called into the WCSL U13 representative side for this summer's Kennedy Cup tournament in Limerick. Blessed with lightning pace and a devastating burst of speed, O'Driscoll has terrorised every defence he has come across this year. One of the Bunratty striker’s most memorable performances occurred in Town Park Schull, back in February, when he came off the bench to inspire an unlikely victory over Riverside Athletic. The Balineen club were leading 2-1 and looking comfortable until the introduction of O'Driscoll. Despite suffering from a heavy cold the talismanic striker scored an amazing five times and proved the difference in a remarkable 7-2 turnaround. O’Driscoll’s Man of the Match performance - including a tremendous hat trick - inspired Bunratty United to a West Cork Schoolboys U12 Cup final victory over Bay Rovers back April.
Name: Stephen McCarthy
Club: Skibbereen U12
Position: Striker
Stephen McCarthy is another hugely gifted player who looks set to spearhead Skibbereen to further success in the coming seasons. McCarthy amassed over 20 goals this term as part of an enormously talented Skibbereen U12 squad. The Baltimore Road club enjoyed a remarkable run in the SFAI National Cup earlier this season gaining notable victories over Corinthian Boys, Rockmount and Riverstown before finally succumbing to Lakewood in the Round 4 of the Cork section. McCarthy was by far Skibbereen’s best player during that run, scoring 5 goals and displaying his undisputed class in leading the Skibbereen forward line against more illustrious opposition. Stephen possesses devastating pace over 10 yards and showed his eye for goal despite being man-marked for much of Skibbereen’s National Cup campaign. Skibb finished runners-up in the SuperValu U12 League to Clonakilty AFC with McCarthy the pick of their players during the play-offs.
Name: Jack O'Mahony
Club: Clonakilty AFC U12
Position: Midfielder
Jack O'Mahony was one of the main driving forces behind Clonakilty AFC’s dramatic SuperValu U12 League title win this season. Son of the legendary former Clonakilty and Cork Inter-county Senior football star, Eoin O’Mahony, Jack demonstrated his seemingly boundless energy with a succession of all action displays in a tremendous season. A true box to box midfielder, O’Mahony was just one part of an immensely talented AFC squad that saw off the challenge of both Skibb and Bunratty to capture the U12 league. The central midfielder has also weighed in with his fair share of goals in a free scoring side, netting regularly throughout the campaign. The current crop of Clonakilty AFC U12’s have every chance of winning additional silverware in the coming years with Jack O’Mahony an integral part of any future success.
Name: Don O'Driscoll
Club: Drinagh Rangers U12
Position: Midfielder
Don O’Driscoll was Drinagh Rangers U12’s best player of the 2007-08 campaign. Ask any opposing manager who they thought the best player on the Drinagh team was and most Saturday’s the same answer was given: Don O’Driscoll. The young midfielder is remarkably comfortable on the ball and possesses a natural instinctive ability to find a team mate whenever in possession. Whilst not a prolific goal-scorer, O’Driscoll still contributes with a host of assists and his continuing development marks him down as a player of the future for the Cannon Crowley Park club. Drinagh failed to make the end of season U12 play-offs but will look forward to 2008-09 with renewed hope. The club have a history of producing a long line of exceptional underage talent with the emergence of Don O’Driscoll this term further proof of a bright future.
Name: Jack Hurley
Club: Ardfield U12
Position: Centre Back
2007-08 was Ardfield's first season in the SuperValu WCSL U12 League and they found the going tough to say the least. Despite a succession of defeats there were many encouraging team performances. Without a doubt their most consistent player during the 07-08 campaign was their inspirational team captain, Jack Hurley. Hurley (who has yet to turn twelve years of age) consistently demonstrated his strength and total dedication to his defensive duties in the centre of Ardfield’s defence. The Carrigroe club’s young captain caught the eye of many an opposing manager during the season with a succession of superb displays. Hurley is deceptively quick, an excellent tackler and composed in possession. The Carrigroe club will be a force to be reckoned with in the coming years with Jack Hurley excelling in the heart of their defence.
The first is a prolific goal-scorer who has terrorised defences all over West Cork this season. The second is the quickest player over 10 yards in the U12 league. The third and fourth are the most prodigious talents for the respective sides and the fifth is one of the most accomplished defenders at his age-grade.
Some of the most gifted young footballers in the West Cork region are currently playing in the SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys U12 league. Five players in particular have lit up the league with their inspirational performances this term. The FAI deserves some credit for their increasing presence at grass-roots level in the West Cork area. Having laid the basic foundations for the future development of Irish football with the publication of the Technical Development Plan in 2004, the FAI has since developed specific strategic plans for Emerging Talent. Their Emerging Talent programme has been a resounding success this year, gathering some of the best underage players in Clonakilty for weekly specialist training in an effort to both improve and enhance their undoubted talents.
Name: Conor O'Driscoll
Club: Bunratty United U12
Position: Striker
Conor O'Driscoll finished top scorer in this season’s SuperValu WCSL U12 League following a remarkable return of over 30 goals for Bunratty United. The prolific striker netted over 20 league, 7 National Cup and 6 U12 Cup strikes for Bunratty in a memorable campaign. The young striker capped off a tremendous year by being called into the WCSL U13 representative side for this summer's Kennedy Cup tournament in Limerick. Blessed with lightning pace and a devastating burst of speed, O'Driscoll has terrorised every defence he has come across this year. One of the Bunratty striker’s most memorable performances occurred in Town Park Schull, back in February, when he came off the bench to inspire an unlikely victory over Riverside Athletic. The Balineen club were leading 2-1 and looking comfortable until the introduction of O'Driscoll. Despite suffering from a heavy cold the talismanic striker scored an amazing five times and proved the difference in a remarkable 7-2 turnaround. O’Driscoll’s Man of the Match performance - including a tremendous hat trick - inspired Bunratty United to a West Cork Schoolboys U12 Cup final victory over Bay Rovers back April.
Name: Stephen McCarthy
Club: Skibbereen U12
Position: Striker
Stephen McCarthy is another hugely gifted player who looks set to spearhead Skibbereen to further success in the coming seasons. McCarthy amassed over 20 goals this term as part of an enormously talented Skibbereen U12 squad. The Baltimore Road club enjoyed a remarkable run in the SFAI National Cup earlier this season gaining notable victories over Corinthian Boys, Rockmount and Riverstown before finally succumbing to Lakewood in the Round 4 of the Cork section. McCarthy was by far Skibbereen’s best player during that run, scoring 5 goals and displaying his undisputed class in leading the Skibbereen forward line against more illustrious opposition. Stephen possesses devastating pace over 10 yards and showed his eye for goal despite being man-marked for much of Skibbereen’s National Cup campaign. Skibb finished runners-up in the SuperValu U12 League to Clonakilty AFC with McCarthy the pick of their players during the play-offs.
Name: Jack O'Mahony
Club: Clonakilty AFC U12
Position: Midfielder
Jack O'Mahony was one of the main driving forces behind Clonakilty AFC’s dramatic SuperValu U12 League title win this season. Son of the legendary former Clonakilty and Cork Inter-county Senior football star, Eoin O’Mahony, Jack demonstrated his seemingly boundless energy with a succession of all action displays in a tremendous season. A true box to box midfielder, O’Mahony was just one part of an immensely talented AFC squad that saw off the challenge of both Skibb and Bunratty to capture the U12 league. The central midfielder has also weighed in with his fair share of goals in a free scoring side, netting regularly throughout the campaign. The current crop of Clonakilty AFC U12’s have every chance of winning additional silverware in the coming years with Jack O’Mahony an integral part of any future success.
Name: Don O'Driscoll
Club: Drinagh Rangers U12
Position: Midfielder
Don O’Driscoll was Drinagh Rangers U12’s best player of the 2007-08 campaign. Ask any opposing manager who they thought the best player on the Drinagh team was and most Saturday’s the same answer was given: Don O’Driscoll. The young midfielder is remarkably comfortable on the ball and possesses a natural instinctive ability to find a team mate whenever in possession. Whilst not a prolific goal-scorer, O’Driscoll still contributes with a host of assists and his continuing development marks him down as a player of the future for the Cannon Crowley Park club. Drinagh failed to make the end of season U12 play-offs but will look forward to 2008-09 with renewed hope. The club have a history of producing a long line of exceptional underage talent with the emergence of Don O’Driscoll this term further proof of a bright future.
Name: Jack Hurley
Club: Ardfield U12
Position: Centre Back
2007-08 was Ardfield's first season in the SuperValu WCSL U12 League and they found the going tough to say the least. Despite a succession of defeats there were many encouraging team performances. Without a doubt their most consistent player during the 07-08 campaign was their inspirational team captain, Jack Hurley. Hurley (who has yet to turn twelve years of age) consistently demonstrated his strength and total dedication to his defensive duties in the centre of Ardfield’s defence. The Carrigroe club’s young captain caught the eye of many an opposing manager during the season with a succession of superb displays. Hurley is deceptively quick, an excellent tackler and composed in possession. The Carrigroe club will be a force to be reckoned with in the coming years with Jack Hurley excelling in the heart of their defence.
Wednesday, February 06, 2008
SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys League – U14 CUP Review
The only other SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys fixture to survive last weekend was the U14 Cup quarter final tie between Riverside Athletic and Bay Rovers. The match was originally scheduled for the West End, Balineen but due to a waterlogged pitch the tie was instead moved to Kealkil. What a cup tie it turned out to be with Bay emerging with a fantastic penalty shootout victory.
The opening goal in arrived after only ten minutes when Conor O’Neill found the net with superb long range strike. Bay Rovers refused to panic and levelled the score before half time when David Casey reacted quickest to finish a rebound to the net after a defensive mix-up. Rovers were well on top now and made it 2-1 just after the break with the goal of the game. David Casey met an out-swinging corner with a thunderous volley into the top corner of the net to give Bay the lead. Rovers made it 3-1 shortly afterwards when Padraigh Cronin latched onto an Alex Karkalas through ball and beat Gavin O‘Leary to seemingly end the cup tie. Riverside Athletic had other ideas and fought back valiantly with two goals in the final 15 minutes. Trevor Horgan made it 3-2 with a fine shot from outside the penalty area and then right on full time Niall Kelleher pounced to send the game into extra time. Neither side scored in extra time so a penalty shootout was needed to decide the tie. Alex Karkalas was the hero for Bay Rovers, saving the final penalty and then Tom O’Sullivan converted to win the shootout 6-5 and send the Kealkil side into the last four.
Riverside Athletic: Gavin O'Leary, Peter Curran, Sean Ryan, Stephen White, Mark O'Driscoll, Niall Kelleher, John Daly, Gearoid Harrington, Thomas Crowley, Trevor Horgan, Conor O'Neill, Sean Lynch, Niall Lombard and Ciaran Everard.
Bay Rovers: Donal Casey, Cathal Power, Stephen Casey, Alex Karkalas, Martin Hurley, Jerry Harrington, Gavin O'Shea, Eoin O'Sullivan, Tom O'Sullivan, David Casey, Padraigh Cronin, Seamus O'Mahony, Dale Parish and Kevin Casey.
The scheduled U14 Cup quarter final fixture between Drinagh Rangers and Bunratty United in Cannon Crowley Park was postponed. The U14 Cup semi final draw will be made at the next WCSL committee meeting including Bay Rovers, Lyre Rovers, Skibbereen and Drinagh Rangers / Bunratty United.
SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys League TEAM of the Week: Bay Rovers U14. Rovers recovered from losing a 3-1 lead to knock Riverside Athletic out of the U14 Cup on penalties.
SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys League PLAYER of the Week: Alex Karkalas of Bay Rovers U14. Karkalas has a superb game at centre back for the Kealkil side and then donned the goalkeeper’s jersey for the penalty shoot out. The Rovers player saved the penultimate penalty to help send Bay into the semi finals.
WCSL U14 Cup RESULTS for February 2nd 2008
WCSL U14 Cup - Quarter Finals
Togher Celtic 2 Lyre Rovers 3
Riverside Athletic 3 Bay Rovers 3 - aet Bay Rovers win on penalties
Drinagh Rangers vs. Bunratty United - Postponed
Visit www.westcorkschoolboysleague.com for further details.
The opening goal in arrived after only ten minutes when Conor O’Neill found the net with superb long range strike. Bay Rovers refused to panic and levelled the score before half time when David Casey reacted quickest to finish a rebound to the net after a defensive mix-up. Rovers were well on top now and made it 2-1 just after the break with the goal of the game. David Casey met an out-swinging corner with a thunderous volley into the top corner of the net to give Bay the lead. Rovers made it 3-1 shortly afterwards when Padraigh Cronin latched onto an Alex Karkalas through ball and beat Gavin O‘Leary to seemingly end the cup tie. Riverside Athletic had other ideas and fought back valiantly with two goals in the final 15 minutes. Trevor Horgan made it 3-2 with a fine shot from outside the penalty area and then right on full time Niall Kelleher pounced to send the game into extra time. Neither side scored in extra time so a penalty shootout was needed to decide the tie. Alex Karkalas was the hero for Bay Rovers, saving the final penalty and then Tom O’Sullivan converted to win the shootout 6-5 and send the Kealkil side into the last four.
Riverside Athletic: Gavin O'Leary, Peter Curran, Sean Ryan, Stephen White, Mark O'Driscoll, Niall Kelleher, John Daly, Gearoid Harrington, Thomas Crowley, Trevor Horgan, Conor O'Neill, Sean Lynch, Niall Lombard and Ciaran Everard.
Bay Rovers: Donal Casey, Cathal Power, Stephen Casey, Alex Karkalas, Martin Hurley, Jerry Harrington, Gavin O'Shea, Eoin O'Sullivan, Tom O'Sullivan, David Casey, Padraigh Cronin, Seamus O'Mahony, Dale Parish and Kevin Casey.
The scheduled U14 Cup quarter final fixture between Drinagh Rangers and Bunratty United in Cannon Crowley Park was postponed. The U14 Cup semi final draw will be made at the next WCSL committee meeting including Bay Rovers, Lyre Rovers, Skibbereen and Drinagh Rangers / Bunratty United.
SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys League TEAM of the Week: Bay Rovers U14. Rovers recovered from losing a 3-1 lead to knock Riverside Athletic out of the U14 Cup on penalties.
SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys League PLAYER of the Week: Alex Karkalas of Bay Rovers U14. Karkalas has a superb game at centre back for the Kealkil side and then donned the goalkeeper’s jersey for the penalty shoot out. The Rovers player saved the penultimate penalty to help send Bay into the semi finals.
WCSL U14 Cup RESULTS for February 2nd 2008
WCSL U14 Cup - Quarter Finals
Togher Celtic 2 Lyre Rovers 3
Riverside Athletic 3 Bay Rovers 3 - aet Bay Rovers win on penalties
Drinagh Rangers vs. Bunratty United - Postponed
Visit www.westcorkschoolboysleague.com for further details.
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys U14 Cup Weekend Preview
The last remaining quarter finals in the West Cork Schoolboys U14 Cup will be decided tomorrow with three fixtures to be decided.
Bay Rovers travel to the West End, Balineen to face Riverside Athletic with a 12:30 kick off tomorrow. Both sides have suffered indifferent form in the SuperValu U14 League this season with Bay Rovers currently lying fifth and Riverside eight in the table. Bay still have an outside chance of making the play-offs but the U14 Cup probably offers the Kealkil side their best chance of silverware this season. Riverside still have games in hand in the league but will need to pick up points in all of those matches to have any chance of making the top four and qualifying for the play-offs. Padraigh Cronin is top of the Rover scoring charts with 7 goals in all competitions so far this season. Bay will also look to Cathal Power, Kevin Casey and Nathan Wycherley to find the net in Balineen. Riverside's Gearoid Harrington and Conor O'Neill have netted 9 goals between them this season and are sure to prove a handful for the Rovers' back four tomorrow. Home advantage may just swing the tie in Riverside's favour but expect Bay to push them all the way in this one.
Current SuperValu Under14 League leaders, Lyre Rovers, travel to face Togher Celtic in a re-arranged quarter final tie with a 2pm kick off tomorrow. Lyre are flying in the league, deservedly sitting top of the table after eight matches. The Knockskeagh side have only lost once in the league this season (away to Bunratty) and have a formidable forward line in James Hayes and Shane O’Donovan. The Rovers strikers have notched 15 league goals between them so far this season. Gearoid Barry, Ethan Draper and Scott Sheehan have also weighed in with plenty of additional goals from midfield. Togher currently lie fourth in the table and are more than capable of upsetting the league leaders. Mark Quinn is Celtic’s leading marksman with 6 goals this season. There should be plenty of drama as the sides shared nine goals in a 6-3 league win for Rovers earlier in the season.
Bunratty United travel to Cannon Crowley Park to face last year’s U14 league and cup winners, Drinagh Rangers, with a 12:30 start. Rangers are still in the hunt for a play-off spot in the league while Bunratty are seven points ahead and in second place in the U14 league table. United will look to top scorers Sean Evans (16) and Eddie Goggin (13) to fire them into the semi finals. Drinagh have plenty of talent in their squad and will hope Michael Collins, Paul Shanahan, Alfie Hyland and Darren Sweetnam are in top form tomorrow.
Fixtures for Saturday, February 2nd 2008
WCSL U14 Cup - Quarter Finals
Togher Celtic vs. Lyre Rovers in Togher at 2pm
Riverside Athletic vs. Bay Rovers in West End Balineen at 12:30
Drinagh Rangers - Bunratty United in Cannon Crowley Park, Drinagh at 12:30
Visit www.westcorkschoolboysleague.com for further details.
Bay Rovers travel to the West End, Balineen to face Riverside Athletic with a 12:30 kick off tomorrow. Both sides have suffered indifferent form in the SuperValu U14 League this season with Bay Rovers currently lying fifth and Riverside eight in the table. Bay still have an outside chance of making the play-offs but the U14 Cup probably offers the Kealkil side their best chance of silverware this season. Riverside still have games in hand in the league but will need to pick up points in all of those matches to have any chance of making the top four and qualifying for the play-offs. Padraigh Cronin is top of the Rover scoring charts with 7 goals in all competitions so far this season. Bay will also look to Cathal Power, Kevin Casey and Nathan Wycherley to find the net in Balineen. Riverside's Gearoid Harrington and Conor O'Neill have netted 9 goals between them this season and are sure to prove a handful for the Rovers' back four tomorrow. Home advantage may just swing the tie in Riverside's favour but expect Bay to push them all the way in this one.
Current SuperValu Under14 League leaders, Lyre Rovers, travel to face Togher Celtic in a re-arranged quarter final tie with a 2pm kick off tomorrow. Lyre are flying in the league, deservedly sitting top of the table after eight matches. The Knockskeagh side have only lost once in the league this season (away to Bunratty) and have a formidable forward line in James Hayes and Shane O’Donovan. The Rovers strikers have notched 15 league goals between them so far this season. Gearoid Barry, Ethan Draper and Scott Sheehan have also weighed in with plenty of additional goals from midfield. Togher currently lie fourth in the table and are more than capable of upsetting the league leaders. Mark Quinn is Celtic’s leading marksman with 6 goals this season. There should be plenty of drama as the sides shared nine goals in a 6-3 league win for Rovers earlier in the season.
Bunratty United travel to Cannon Crowley Park to face last year’s U14 league and cup winners, Drinagh Rangers, with a 12:30 start. Rangers are still in the hunt for a play-off spot in the league while Bunratty are seven points ahead and in second place in the U14 league table. United will look to top scorers Sean Evans (16) and Eddie Goggin (13) to fire them into the semi finals. Drinagh have plenty of talent in their squad and will hope Michael Collins, Paul Shanahan, Alfie Hyland and Darren Sweetnam are in top form tomorrow.
Fixtures for Saturday, February 2nd 2008
WCSL U14 Cup - Quarter Finals
Togher Celtic vs. Lyre Rovers in Togher at 2pm
Riverside Athletic vs. Bay Rovers in West End Balineen at 12:30
Drinagh Rangers - Bunratty United in Cannon Crowley Park, Drinagh at 12:30
Visit www.westcorkschoolboysleague.com for further details.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
The SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys League 2007-08 Season - Half Term Report
West Cork People Columnist Ger McCarthy reviews the first half of an eventful 2007-08 SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys League season and profiles some of the players who have been hitting the headlines for their respective clubs.
Already this season the SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys League has delivered plenty of excitement, top quality football and goals galore. The eventual outcome of the Under12, Under14 and Under16 League age-grades is still too close to call with a host of clubs still very much in the hunt for the coveted League trophies. Even the recent spell of poor weather has failed to dampen the enthusiasm of the thirty two competing sides drawn from clubs all over the West Cork region. Once all of the league fixtures have been completed at Under12, Under14 and Under16 level, the top four ranked sides will enter the final and exciting phase of the season - the play-offs.
The various Cup competitions are also underway with the majority of first round and quarter final ties now completed. The West Cork Shield competitions will also begin at the tail-end of the regular season involving any clubs who miss out on the play-offs. It has been a hectic winter period for the West Cork Schoolboys Kennedy Cup squad who are busy training in preparation for the prestigious All-Ireland Kennedy Cup tournament due to be held in Limerick later this summer.
SUPERVALU UNDER12 LEAGUE
Clonakilty AFC are currently top of the table along with Bay Rovers in the SuperValu Under12 Group1 league. Both sides have been scoring for fun so far this season and look the two most likely teams to qualify for the end of season play-offs. Eoin Ryan is top scorer for Clon while Cian Crowley, Brian Chan, Paul Harte, Jack O'Mahony and Jack Cowhig have also been amongst the goals. Ayrton O'Shea is currently top of the scoring charts for Bay Rovers with Donal Casey, Daniel Murphy, Darren Cronin and Tadgh Linehan also netting regularly this season. Drinagh Rangers, Lyre Rovers and Durrus are still in with an outside chance of splitting the top two as Group1 reaches its climax. The Lyre Rovers strike force of Ben Van Bree and Jamie Hurley have been terrorising defences and regularly finding the net. Jake King, Padraigh Cronin and Gary Lordan are the pick of Drinagh's best performers so far this term. Durrus have not hit the heights of last season but with quality players such as Eoghan O'Dwyer, Patrick McCarthy, Jonathan Lannin and Brian O'Regan in their squad they still have a slim chance of making the top two. Both Ardfield and Leeside have found the going tough in Under12 Group1 this season. Leeside will look to Chris Jones, Liam Fitzgerald and Sean Quinn to inspire them in the Under12 Shield tournament later in the year. Ardfield’s first season in Under12 has been an encouraging if not entirely successful one. The newcomers have talented players such as Ewan Courtney, Cathal Moore and Jack Butler to call on for the remainder of the season.
Group2 of the SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys Under12 League is proving to be an enthralling contest. Schoolboys League debutantes, Dunmanway Town have enjoyed a tremendous start to their inaugural season by topping the group after eight games. Dylan O'Driscoll, John Kelly, Killian O'Donovan, Raymond O'Brien and Owen Lavers are just a selection of players from a highly talented squad which has seen Town rise to the top of the league. Bunratty United currently lie in second place three points ahead of a chasing pack including Skibbereen, Riverside Athletic and Togher Celtic. Bunratty are an excellent team full of top quality players including Connor O’Driscoll who has scored a remarkable 16 goals in all competitions already this season. Arron Barry, Cathal Newman and Clodagh O'Callaghan have also contributed to United’s excellent start. Skibbereen are looking the most likely side to break into the top two play-off positions. Stephen McCarthy is the Baltimore Road side’s top scorer this term with 13. Owen Collins, Sean O’Donovan and Sean Casey have also been amongst the goals for Skibb. The remaining teams have their work cut out for them to break into the top two. Togher Celtic’s Jake Inglis and Niall Crowley have been regularly hitting the target while Riverside Athletics’ Trevor Horgan, Rory O’Connor and Jack O’Callaghan are top scorers for the Balineen club. Clonakilty Youths have found the going tough in a highly competitive group. Players such as Daniel Lane, Daniel Kelleher, John Hodnett and Mark Crowley have impressed and the Youths will be a match for any side in the Under12 Shield competition.
SUPERVALU UNDER14 LEAGUE
The SuperValu Under14 League is turning out to be the most intriguing of the West Cork Schoolboys Leagues this year. The top four ranked sides at the end of the regular season will move forward to the play-offs to decide the U14 title. Lyre Rovers are currently top of the league with only a handful of games remaining. Rovers are enjoying a tremendous run having lost only once so far this season. A squad brimming with talent including the likes of James Hayes, Shane O'Donovan, Gearoid Barry, Ethan Draper and Scott Sheehan has propelled Lyre to the top. Bunratty United are only three points behind Lyre in second place with a game in hand. The Schull side have been hugely impressive this term thanks to the performances of Sean Evans, Eddie Goggin, Gavin McEntaggart and Adam Collins. Skibbereen are currently in third place but still have a 100% record after six games. The Baltimore Road club have been scoring for fun this season with Dan MacEoin topping the charts with 20 goals. Skibb also possess top quality players such as Rudi Henwood, Brendan O’Dwyer and Jason Minihane. Any one of these three sides (Lyre, Bunratty or Skibb) are capable of winning the title and are certainties to make the play-offs. The last remaining play-off spot is going to be a battle between the following clubs: Togher Celtic, Bay Rovers, Drinagh Rangers or Riverside Athletic. Any one of these sides are capable of breaking into the top four. The Under14 play-off positions are not likely to be decided until the final weekend of the regular season. Clonakilty AFC, Ballydehob and Clonakilty Youths have failed to make an impact in the Under14 league this season but are likely to figure strongly in the Under14 Shield tournament later this year. AFC’s top scorers include Tadgh Casey, Gearoid O’Brien and Martin Scally. Ballydehob are playing in the West Cork Schoolboys League for the first time this year and have enjoyed superb performances from players such as Bosko Minihane, Tadgh O’Mahony and Alan Cronin. The Clon Youths starring players so far this season include Daniel Laker, Cian O’Donovan, Finbarr Butler and John O’Brien.
SUPERVALU UNDER16 LEAGUE
Togher Celtic have been the surprise package of the SuperValu Under16 League so far this season. Celtic currently lie top of the table and are unbeaten with three games remaining. Strikers Cian O’Mahony and Danny O’Sullivan have scored 5 goals each this season with Declan Coughlan, David Collins and Billy Lurkins also weighing in. Last year’s champions, Riverside Athletic, are in second place only three points behind Togher. Michael O’Driscoll has found the net 10 times already this term for the Balineen club with Rory Baggott, Neville Maybury, Ger Rice and Brian McCarthy also on the scoresheet. The two remaining Under16 play-off spots are still very much up for grabs. Drinagh Rangers and Lyre Rovers look the most likely to secure those berths. Samuel Ross is top scorer for Drinagh with 4 and Michael O’Driscoll for Lyre with 3. Skibbereen, Clonakilty AFC and Bunratty United may yet have a say in the race for the play-offs before the end of the season. Skibb will look to Mark Collins, Thomas Hegarty and Darragh Leonard to fire them into the top four. Clonakilty will hope John O’Sullivan, Colin O ‘Flynn and Alan O’Sullivan can inspire them with a late flurry of goals. Bunratty have games in hand on their opponents and will fancy their chances with Jack Twomey and Ger O’Callaghan on target already this season. Bay Rovers and Leeside are out of the running and will focus their attention on the Under16 Shield tournament later this season. Ricky Peters, Mark Delaney and David Power have been on the scoresheet for Bay this term while David Hourihane, Ben Shorten, Denis O’Leary and Sean O’Leary have netted for Leeside.
THE SCHOOLBOYS LEAGUE SPONSORS & REFEREES
2007-2008 marked the first season the West Cork Schoolboys League acquired an official sponsor. SuperValu’s decision to come on board and sponsor the leagues, shields and play-off competitions as well as man of the match trophies is the best piece of news the Schoolboys League has received in many years. The Committee is eternally grateful to SuperValu for their generosity and support for this season and hopefully many more seasons ahead. The SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys League could not function without the attendance and expertise of the West Cork League Referees. Special thanks to Anthony McDermott, Stephen McDermott, John Reidy, John Desmond, Brian Collins, Martin Coakley, Eoghan Houlihan, Sam Aba, Michael Daly, Richie Collins, Shane Goggin and Terry Minihane for officiating at various Schoolboys League games over the past seasons. It is hoped that the treatment and general appreciation of referees by Schoolboys League players, coaches and supporters will continue to improve as the season progresses. Referees are a rare commodity these days and the SuperValu WCSL is fortunate to have such a capable pool of officials to call on each weekend.
Already this season the SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys League has delivered plenty of excitement, top quality football and goals galore. The eventual outcome of the Under12, Under14 and Under16 League age-grades is still too close to call with a host of clubs still very much in the hunt for the coveted League trophies. Even the recent spell of poor weather has failed to dampen the enthusiasm of the thirty two competing sides drawn from clubs all over the West Cork region. Once all of the league fixtures have been completed at Under12, Under14 and Under16 level, the top four ranked sides will enter the final and exciting phase of the season - the play-offs.
The various Cup competitions are also underway with the majority of first round and quarter final ties now completed. The West Cork Shield competitions will also begin at the tail-end of the regular season involving any clubs who miss out on the play-offs. It has been a hectic winter period for the West Cork Schoolboys Kennedy Cup squad who are busy training in preparation for the prestigious All-Ireland Kennedy Cup tournament due to be held in Limerick later this summer.
SUPERVALU UNDER12 LEAGUE
Clonakilty AFC are currently top of the table along with Bay Rovers in the SuperValu Under12 Group1 league. Both sides have been scoring for fun so far this season and look the two most likely teams to qualify for the end of season play-offs. Eoin Ryan is top scorer for Clon while Cian Crowley, Brian Chan, Paul Harte, Jack O'Mahony and Jack Cowhig have also been amongst the goals. Ayrton O'Shea is currently top of the scoring charts for Bay Rovers with Donal Casey, Daniel Murphy, Darren Cronin and Tadgh Linehan also netting regularly this season. Drinagh Rangers, Lyre Rovers and Durrus are still in with an outside chance of splitting the top two as Group1 reaches its climax. The Lyre Rovers strike force of Ben Van Bree and Jamie Hurley have been terrorising defences and regularly finding the net. Jake King, Padraigh Cronin and Gary Lordan are the pick of Drinagh's best performers so far this term. Durrus have not hit the heights of last season but with quality players such as Eoghan O'Dwyer, Patrick McCarthy, Jonathan Lannin and Brian O'Regan in their squad they still have a slim chance of making the top two. Both Ardfield and Leeside have found the going tough in Under12 Group1 this season. Leeside will look to Chris Jones, Liam Fitzgerald and Sean Quinn to inspire them in the Under12 Shield tournament later in the year. Ardfield’s first season in Under12 has been an encouraging if not entirely successful one. The newcomers have talented players such as Ewan Courtney, Cathal Moore and Jack Butler to call on for the remainder of the season.
Group2 of the SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys Under12 League is proving to be an enthralling contest. Schoolboys League debutantes, Dunmanway Town have enjoyed a tremendous start to their inaugural season by topping the group after eight games. Dylan O'Driscoll, John Kelly, Killian O'Donovan, Raymond O'Brien and Owen Lavers are just a selection of players from a highly talented squad which has seen Town rise to the top of the league. Bunratty United currently lie in second place three points ahead of a chasing pack including Skibbereen, Riverside Athletic and Togher Celtic. Bunratty are an excellent team full of top quality players including Connor O’Driscoll who has scored a remarkable 16 goals in all competitions already this season. Arron Barry, Cathal Newman and Clodagh O'Callaghan have also contributed to United’s excellent start. Skibbereen are looking the most likely side to break into the top two play-off positions. Stephen McCarthy is the Baltimore Road side’s top scorer this term with 13. Owen Collins, Sean O’Donovan and Sean Casey have also been amongst the goals for Skibb. The remaining teams have their work cut out for them to break into the top two. Togher Celtic’s Jake Inglis and Niall Crowley have been regularly hitting the target while Riverside Athletics’ Trevor Horgan, Rory O’Connor and Jack O’Callaghan are top scorers for the Balineen club. Clonakilty Youths have found the going tough in a highly competitive group. Players such as Daniel Lane, Daniel Kelleher, John Hodnett and Mark Crowley have impressed and the Youths will be a match for any side in the Under12 Shield competition.
SUPERVALU UNDER14 LEAGUE
The SuperValu Under14 League is turning out to be the most intriguing of the West Cork Schoolboys Leagues this year. The top four ranked sides at the end of the regular season will move forward to the play-offs to decide the U14 title. Lyre Rovers are currently top of the league with only a handful of games remaining. Rovers are enjoying a tremendous run having lost only once so far this season. A squad brimming with talent including the likes of James Hayes, Shane O'Donovan, Gearoid Barry, Ethan Draper and Scott Sheehan has propelled Lyre to the top. Bunratty United are only three points behind Lyre in second place with a game in hand. The Schull side have been hugely impressive this term thanks to the performances of Sean Evans, Eddie Goggin, Gavin McEntaggart and Adam Collins. Skibbereen are currently in third place but still have a 100% record after six games. The Baltimore Road club have been scoring for fun this season with Dan MacEoin topping the charts with 20 goals. Skibb also possess top quality players such as Rudi Henwood, Brendan O’Dwyer and Jason Minihane. Any one of these three sides (Lyre, Bunratty or Skibb) are capable of winning the title and are certainties to make the play-offs. The last remaining play-off spot is going to be a battle between the following clubs: Togher Celtic, Bay Rovers, Drinagh Rangers or Riverside Athletic. Any one of these sides are capable of breaking into the top four. The Under14 play-off positions are not likely to be decided until the final weekend of the regular season. Clonakilty AFC, Ballydehob and Clonakilty Youths have failed to make an impact in the Under14 league this season but are likely to figure strongly in the Under14 Shield tournament later this year. AFC’s top scorers include Tadgh Casey, Gearoid O’Brien and Martin Scally. Ballydehob are playing in the West Cork Schoolboys League for the first time this year and have enjoyed superb performances from players such as Bosko Minihane, Tadgh O’Mahony and Alan Cronin. The Clon Youths starring players so far this season include Daniel Laker, Cian O’Donovan, Finbarr Butler and John O’Brien.
SUPERVALU UNDER16 LEAGUE
Togher Celtic have been the surprise package of the SuperValu Under16 League so far this season. Celtic currently lie top of the table and are unbeaten with three games remaining. Strikers Cian O’Mahony and Danny O’Sullivan have scored 5 goals each this season with Declan Coughlan, David Collins and Billy Lurkins also weighing in. Last year’s champions, Riverside Athletic, are in second place only three points behind Togher. Michael O’Driscoll has found the net 10 times already this term for the Balineen club with Rory Baggott, Neville Maybury, Ger Rice and Brian McCarthy also on the scoresheet. The two remaining Under16 play-off spots are still very much up for grabs. Drinagh Rangers and Lyre Rovers look the most likely to secure those berths. Samuel Ross is top scorer for Drinagh with 4 and Michael O’Driscoll for Lyre with 3. Skibbereen, Clonakilty AFC and Bunratty United may yet have a say in the race for the play-offs before the end of the season. Skibb will look to Mark Collins, Thomas Hegarty and Darragh Leonard to fire them into the top four. Clonakilty will hope John O’Sullivan, Colin O ‘Flynn and Alan O’Sullivan can inspire them with a late flurry of goals. Bunratty have games in hand on their opponents and will fancy their chances with Jack Twomey and Ger O’Callaghan on target already this season. Bay Rovers and Leeside are out of the running and will focus their attention on the Under16 Shield tournament later this season. Ricky Peters, Mark Delaney and David Power have been on the scoresheet for Bay this term while David Hourihane, Ben Shorten, Denis O’Leary and Sean O’Leary have netted for Leeside.
THE SCHOOLBOYS LEAGUE SPONSORS & REFEREES
2007-2008 marked the first season the West Cork Schoolboys League acquired an official sponsor. SuperValu’s decision to come on board and sponsor the leagues, shields and play-off competitions as well as man of the match trophies is the best piece of news the Schoolboys League has received in many years. The Committee is eternally grateful to SuperValu for their generosity and support for this season and hopefully many more seasons ahead. The SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys League could not function without the attendance and expertise of the West Cork League Referees. Special thanks to Anthony McDermott, Stephen McDermott, John Reidy, John Desmond, Brian Collins, Martin Coakley, Eoghan Houlihan, Sam Aba, Michael Daly, Richie Collins, Shane Goggin and Terry Minihane for officiating at various Schoolboys League games over the past seasons. It is hoped that the treatment and general appreciation of referees by Schoolboys League players, coaches and supporters will continue to improve as the season progresses. Referees are a rare commodity these days and the SuperValu WCSL is fortunate to have such a capable pool of officials to call on each weekend.
Saturday, September 29, 2007
WCSL - Weekend Preview
The SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys U14 league returns tomorrow with four key fixtures to be decided.
Togher Celtic currently sit top the table in the SuperValu U14 league with 4 points from their opening two league games. Togher defeated Clonakilty Youths 3-1 on the opening day of the season and followed up that result with a hard fought 2-2 draw away to Drinagh Rangers. Celtic will have home advantage tomorrow against Harbour United with a 12:30 kick off. The Union Hall side are newcomers to the U14 league this season and have already suffered two defeats to Riverside Athletic and Skibbereen. A home win is the expected result in Togher tomorrow.
Ballydehob entertain reigning U14 title-holders Drinagh Rangers in Rathravane at 11am. The two clubs enjoyed contrasting fortunes in the National Cup last weekend. Ballydehob lost 3-0 at home to Greenwood. Drinagh recorded a fantastic 4-1 win over Springfield Ramblers A to qualify for the first round with goals from Alfie Hyland, Michael Collins and Darren Sweetnam(2). Ballydehob have three points from their opening two games. Their recorded an impressive 5-0 victory away to Clonakilty AFC Youths last time out. A Tadgh O’Mahony hat trick inspired that win and Ballydehob will need a similar performance if they are to defeat Drinagh tomorrow.
Bay Rovers are at home to Clonakilty AFC Youths in Kealkil at noon. Rovers recorded a superb 3-1 win away to Glounthaune United with Padraigh Cronin, Gerry Harrington and Tom O’Sullivan scoring the winning goals. AFC Youths have suffered two disappointing defeats at the hands of Togher Celtic and Ballydehob so far this season. Bay will be expected to pick up all three points from this encounter.
Bunratty United and Clonakilty AFC clash in Town Park Schull at 1pm. United recorded a famous 4-2 win away to Castleview in the National Cup last weekend with Sean Evans(2), Gavin McIntaggart and Eddie Goggin all finding the net. AFC were knocked out of the U14 National cup last Sunday by Waterford side, Ardmore. Clonakilty put in a commendable performance with Stephen Vickery and Conor O’Brien scoring two consolation goals. Bunratty United will start as clear favourites tomorrow but Clonakilty AFC have the potential to cause an upset.
The much anticipated clash between Skibbereen and Lyre Rovers has been postponed with Lyre deciding to take their cancellation this weekend. Skibbereen Under11’s are the sole SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys League representatives in the U11 National Cup this weekend. Skibb entertain Kilreen Celtic from the Cork Schoolboys League in the Preliminary Round of the competition at the Baltimore Road Ground tomorrow.
WEEKEND FIXTURES
SuperValu WCSL U14
Ballydehob vs. Drinagh Rangers in Rathravane Ballydehob at 11am
Bay Rovers vs. Clonakilty AFC Youths in Lisheens Kealkil at Noon
Bunratty United vs. Clonakilty AFC in Town Park Schull at 1pm
Togher Celtic vs. Harbour United in Togher at 12:30
Skibbereen vs. Lyre Rovers - Postponed with Lyre Rovers taking cancellation
U11 National Cup Preliminary Round
Skibbereen vs. Kilreen Celtic in Baltimore Road Skibbereen
Togher Celtic currently sit top the table in the SuperValu U14 league with 4 points from their opening two league games. Togher defeated Clonakilty Youths 3-1 on the opening day of the season and followed up that result with a hard fought 2-2 draw away to Drinagh Rangers. Celtic will have home advantage tomorrow against Harbour United with a 12:30 kick off. The Union Hall side are newcomers to the U14 league this season and have already suffered two defeats to Riverside Athletic and Skibbereen. A home win is the expected result in Togher tomorrow.
Ballydehob entertain reigning U14 title-holders Drinagh Rangers in Rathravane at 11am. The two clubs enjoyed contrasting fortunes in the National Cup last weekend. Ballydehob lost 3-0 at home to Greenwood. Drinagh recorded a fantastic 4-1 win over Springfield Ramblers A to qualify for the first round with goals from Alfie Hyland, Michael Collins and Darren Sweetnam(2). Ballydehob have three points from their opening two games. Their recorded an impressive 5-0 victory away to Clonakilty AFC Youths last time out. A Tadgh O’Mahony hat trick inspired that win and Ballydehob will need a similar performance if they are to defeat Drinagh tomorrow.
Bay Rovers are at home to Clonakilty AFC Youths in Kealkil at noon. Rovers recorded a superb 3-1 win away to Glounthaune United with Padraigh Cronin, Gerry Harrington and Tom O’Sullivan scoring the winning goals. AFC Youths have suffered two disappointing defeats at the hands of Togher Celtic and Ballydehob so far this season. Bay will be expected to pick up all three points from this encounter.
Bunratty United and Clonakilty AFC clash in Town Park Schull at 1pm. United recorded a famous 4-2 win away to Castleview in the National Cup last weekend with Sean Evans(2), Gavin McIntaggart and Eddie Goggin all finding the net. AFC were knocked out of the U14 National cup last Sunday by Waterford side, Ardmore. Clonakilty put in a commendable performance with Stephen Vickery and Conor O’Brien scoring two consolation goals. Bunratty United will start as clear favourites tomorrow but Clonakilty AFC have the potential to cause an upset.
The much anticipated clash between Skibbereen and Lyre Rovers has been postponed with Lyre deciding to take their cancellation this weekend. Skibbereen Under11’s are the sole SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys League representatives in the U11 National Cup this weekend. Skibb entertain Kilreen Celtic from the Cork Schoolboys League in the Preliminary Round of the competition at the Baltimore Road Ground tomorrow.
WEEKEND FIXTURES
SuperValu WCSL U14
Ballydehob vs. Drinagh Rangers in Rathravane Ballydehob at 11am
Bay Rovers vs. Clonakilty AFC Youths in Lisheens Kealkil at Noon
Bunratty United vs. Clonakilty AFC in Town Park Schull at 1pm
Togher Celtic vs. Harbour United in Togher at 12:30
Skibbereen vs. Lyre Rovers - Postponed with Lyre Rovers taking cancellation
U11 National Cup Preliminary Round
Skibbereen vs. Kilreen Celtic in Baltimore Road Skibbereen
Sunday, September 23, 2007
WCSL U16 Match Report
SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys League U16 Match Report
COMPEITION: U16 National Cup - Preliminary Round
TEAMS: Skibbereen vs Cobh Ramblers
DATE: Sat 22nd Sept 2007
VENUE: Baltimore Road Skibbereen
FINAL SCORE: Skibbereen 1 Cobh Ramblers 7
SCORERS: Mark Collins (Skibb)
John Corcoran (4), Kristian Dennehy (2) and Shane Geasley (Cobh)
Cobh Ramblers recorded a comfortable 7-1 victory away to Skibbereen in an U16 National Cup Preliminary Round tie in the Baltimore Road Ground on Saturday. 4 goals from the excellent John Corcoran and a brace from the impressive Kristian Dennehy earned Cobh a well deserved victory.
The game kicked off on in brilliant sunshine on the immaculate playing surface in Skibbereen. The home side were missing some regular first team players and looked nervous in the opening exchanges. Cobh Ramblers settled quickly and passed with more authority thanks to Kristian (son of the famous Mia) Dennehy in the centre of the pitch.
Ramblers went ahead in the 1st minute when John Corcoran raced through and gave Donagh McCarthy no chance with a terrific shot. McCarthy was called into action to deny Cobh a second with a point-blank save in the 5th minute. Skibb’s Danny O’Donovan began to cause the visitors defence problems with his pace on the left wing. Cobh continued to dominate and it was no surprise when John Corcoran slid home his second of the afternoon from 10 yards to give the visitors a 2-0 lead. Ramblers were springing the Skibb offside trap with alarming ease and added a third in the 19th minute. Corcoran completed his hat trick with a sublime volley from the edge of the box. Darragh Leonard tested Kevin McCarthy with a free kick before Ramblers scored a fourth after 23 minutes. John Corcoran was allowed far too much room on the edge of the penalty area and slipped a pass to the unmarked Shane Geasley. The Cobh striker made no mistake to leave the score 4-0 to Cobh at the interval.
The second half was played at a more pedestrian pace with Ramblers well in control. Further goals from Kristian Dennehy and a fourth from John Corcoran made sure of the result. Despite the lop-sided score line the home side re-grouped and never let their heads drop.
Skibbereen played some excellent football in the second half and grabbed a consolation goal late in the game. Mark Collins got behind the Ramblers defence and finished confidently to the back of the net. It was no more than the hosts deserved for a much improved second half performance. Cobh Ramblers took less than a minute to respond. Kristian Dennehy grabbed his second of the game with a fantastic curling effort into the top corner to complete the scoring.
The home side can have little complaint about the final result. Cobh Ramblers were by far the better side and physically stronger in almost every position. Based on this performance Ramblers are certain to have a major say in the latter stages of this year's U16 National Cup competition. Skibbereen will bounce back from this defeat and are more than capable of making the U16 play-offs at the end of the season.
Best for Cobh included John Corcoran, Kristian Dennehy and Ross O’Donovan-Wyatt also impressed for the visiting side. For Skibbereen there were excellent displays from Thomas Hegarty, Darragh Leonard, Danny O'Donovan and Dan MacEoin.
Skibbereen: Donnagh McCarthy, Conor MacKahay, Trevor Roycroft (Capt), Jack O'Sullivan, Jack O'Driscoll, James Davis, Paidi Crowley, Thomas Hegarty, Danny O'Donovan, Mark Collins, Darragh Leonard, Rudi Henwood, Shane Hourihan, Dan MacEoin and Martin Murphy.
Cobh Ramblers: Kevin McCarthy, Gary Collins, Tadgh Lawton, Ross O'Donovan-Wyatt (Capt), Gavin Fitzgerald, David Collins, Gary Halpin, Kristian Dennehy, John Corcoran, Shane Geasley, Jordan O'Leary, Eoin O'Riordan, James O'Dwyer and Stephen Madine.
Referee: John Desmond (WCSL)
Visit www.westcorkschoolboysleague.com for further details.
COMPEITION: U16 National Cup - Preliminary Round
TEAMS: Skibbereen vs Cobh Ramblers
DATE: Sat 22nd Sept 2007
VENUE: Baltimore Road Skibbereen
FINAL SCORE: Skibbereen 1 Cobh Ramblers 7
SCORERS: Mark Collins (Skibb)
John Corcoran (4), Kristian Dennehy (2) and Shane Geasley (Cobh)
Cobh Ramblers recorded a comfortable 7-1 victory away to Skibbereen in an U16 National Cup Preliminary Round tie in the Baltimore Road Ground on Saturday. 4 goals from the excellent John Corcoran and a brace from the impressive Kristian Dennehy earned Cobh a well deserved victory.
The game kicked off on in brilliant sunshine on the immaculate playing surface in Skibbereen. The home side were missing some regular first team players and looked nervous in the opening exchanges. Cobh Ramblers settled quickly and passed with more authority thanks to Kristian (son of the famous Mia) Dennehy in the centre of the pitch.
Ramblers went ahead in the 1st minute when John Corcoran raced through and gave Donagh McCarthy no chance with a terrific shot. McCarthy was called into action to deny Cobh a second with a point-blank save in the 5th minute. Skibb’s Danny O’Donovan began to cause the visitors defence problems with his pace on the left wing. Cobh continued to dominate and it was no surprise when John Corcoran slid home his second of the afternoon from 10 yards to give the visitors a 2-0 lead. Ramblers were springing the Skibb offside trap with alarming ease and added a third in the 19th minute. Corcoran completed his hat trick with a sublime volley from the edge of the box. Darragh Leonard tested Kevin McCarthy with a free kick before Ramblers scored a fourth after 23 minutes. John Corcoran was allowed far too much room on the edge of the penalty area and slipped a pass to the unmarked Shane Geasley. The Cobh striker made no mistake to leave the score 4-0 to Cobh at the interval.
The second half was played at a more pedestrian pace with Ramblers well in control. Further goals from Kristian Dennehy and a fourth from John Corcoran made sure of the result. Despite the lop-sided score line the home side re-grouped and never let their heads drop.
Skibbereen played some excellent football in the second half and grabbed a consolation goal late in the game. Mark Collins got behind the Ramblers defence and finished confidently to the back of the net. It was no more than the hosts deserved for a much improved second half performance. Cobh Ramblers took less than a minute to respond. Kristian Dennehy grabbed his second of the game with a fantastic curling effort into the top corner to complete the scoring.
The home side can have little complaint about the final result. Cobh Ramblers were by far the better side and physically stronger in almost every position. Based on this performance Ramblers are certain to have a major say in the latter stages of this year's U16 National Cup competition. Skibbereen will bounce back from this defeat and are more than capable of making the U16 play-offs at the end of the season.
Best for Cobh included John Corcoran, Kristian Dennehy and Ross O’Donovan-Wyatt also impressed for the visiting side. For Skibbereen there were excellent displays from Thomas Hegarty, Darragh Leonard, Danny O'Donovan and Dan MacEoin.
Skibbereen: Donnagh McCarthy, Conor MacKahay, Trevor Roycroft (Capt), Jack O'Sullivan, Jack O'Driscoll, James Davis, Paidi Crowley, Thomas Hegarty, Danny O'Donovan, Mark Collins, Darragh Leonard, Rudi Henwood, Shane Hourihan, Dan MacEoin and Martin Murphy.
Cobh Ramblers: Kevin McCarthy, Gary Collins, Tadgh Lawton, Ross O'Donovan-Wyatt (Capt), Gavin Fitzgerald, David Collins, Gary Halpin, Kristian Dennehy, John Corcoran, Shane Geasley, Jordan O'Leary, Eoin O'Riordan, James O'Dwyer and Stephen Madine.
Referee: John Desmond (WCSL)
Visit www.westcorkschoolboysleague.com for further details.
Saturday, September 22, 2007
WCSL U12 Match Report & RoundUp
SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys League U12 Match Report
COMPEITION: U12 National Cup - Preliminary Round
TEAMS: Drinagh Rangers vs. Togher Celtic
DATE: Sat 22nd Sept 2007
VENUE: Cannon Crowley Park Drinagh
FINAL SCORE: Drinagh 3 Togher 1
SCORERS: Jake King (2) and Gary Lordan (Drinagh)
Niall Crowley (Togher)
Drinagh Rangers defeated Togher Celtic 3-1 in the Preliminary Round of the U12 National Cup in Cannon Crowley Park last Saturday. Goals from Jake King and Gary Lordan gave the home side a deserved victory in an all SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys League - National Cup tie.
Togher's Shane Crowley and Jake Inglis tested Drinagh goalkeeper, Conor O'Mahony, with a couple of long range efforts in the opening minutes. The home side should have taken the lead with their very first attack when Gary Lordan broke free of the Celtic defence. The Drinagh striker was denied a certain goal thanks to a brave stop from Jamie Reardon. Jake Inglis curled a free kick just wide of the upright as the frantic pace to the match showed no signs of letting up.
Drinagh had started well and caused some early moments of panic in the Togher defence but were caught napping when Niall Crowley put the visiting side ahead after 9 minutes. Crowley gained possession on the left wing and set off on a mazy dribble. The Togher winger slalomed past two defenders, cut inside and slipped a shot underneath the advancing Conor O'Mahony. Drinagh's response was immediate with Jake King turning a shot goalwards from the edge of the penalty area only to be denied by a stunning save from Jamie Reardon.
The home side were enjoying the majority of the possession but were unable to convert their chances. Togher were beginning to sit back on their 1-0 lead and defending deep from the edge of their penalty area. Celtic were made to pay for not building on their early lead when Drinagh equalised after 15 minutes. Jake King showed great reactions to stab the ball home after Riordan could only parry a rasping free kick from Don O'Driscoll. What the game lacked in quality it more than made up for in commitment and effort. Niall Crowley and Gary Lordan exchanged chances at either end. The half ended with the side’s level at 1-1.
Togher began the second half in determined mood and had the home side's defence on the back foot in the opening minutes. The game was delicately poised at 1-1 with the next goal crucial to the eventual outcome of the cup tie. A Wayne Rooney-like run from Jake King tore through the Togher defence only for the striker to shoot narrowly over.
The visitors were made to pay for not capitalising on all their possession when Drinagh took the lead in the 40th minute. Jamie Reardon pulled off a remarkable save to deny Stephen Crowley but Gary Lordan reacted quickest and turned the rebound into the net. Togher almost equalised when a Niall Crowley shot took a wicked deflection but O'Mahony scrambled to save.
Togher Celtic continued to press forward and as a result left gaping holes in defence. Drinagh took advantage and one counter attack left King with a one-on-one with Jamie Reardon but somehow the Drinagh striker managed to skew his shot wide. Celtic were visibly tiring as their huge second half efforts began to take its toll.
The home side made sure of the win with a third and clinching goal after 55 minutes. Jake King poached from close range to seal the win and send Drinagh Rangers into the first round of the U12 National Cup.
Jamie Reardon had a fine game in goal for Togher. Stephen Farrell, Owen Murray, Jake Inglis, Shane Crowley and Niall Crowley also put in commendable performances for the visitors. Conor O'Mahony, Kevin Dullea, Stephen Crowley and Don O'Driscoll were the pick of Drinagh's best players. It was the combined efforts and goals of strikers; Jake King and Gary Lordan that eventually swung the tie in Rangers' favour. Drinagh Rangers reward for overcoming the challenge of Togher is a First Round National Cup tie with - on the -th of October.
Drinagh Rangers: Conor O'Mahony, Seamus Murphy, Kevin Dullea (Captain), Odhran Connolly, Donal O'Donovan, Stephen Crowley, Don O'Driscol, Padraigh Cronin, Jack O'Sullivan, Jake King, Gary Lordan, Jamie Hurley, Diarmuid Kelly, Sam Kingston, Darren Collins, Ciaran Hurley and Dominic Fernandez.
Togher Celtic: Jamie Riordan, Thomas Daly, Stephen Farrell, Stephen O'Leary, Owen Murray, Syephen Connolly, Oisin Tremayne, Jake Inglis (Captain), Kenny Lynch, Shane Crowley, Niall Crowley, Andrew Doyle, James Coughlan, Danny Collins, Rian Hayden, Martin Murphy, Ronan O'Callaghan, Paul Collins, Jeremy O'Sullivan, Denis Kelleher and Michael Murray.
Referee: Anthony McDermott (WCSL)
SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys League – Weekend Roundup
The SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys League enjoyed a fantastic return in the U12, U14 and U16 National Cups with 10 teams gaining victories in their Preliminary Round ties.
U12 Nat Cup
Bunratty defeated Everton of the Cork Schoolboys League 4-0 in Rathvane on Saturday afternoon. Goals from Arron Barry, Fionn Hurley, Clodagh O'Callaghan and Conor O'Driscoll earned the home side a memorable victory. United face an away trip against either Midleton or Waterloo in the next round. Durrus recorded and emphatic 4-1 win at home to Park United. Eoghan O'Dwyer was the hero for Durrus with an inspiring hat trick. Brian O'Regan completed the scoring for the home side who are away to Greenwood A or Springfield Ramblers next. There was disappointment for Clonakilty AFC who were knocked out by Corinthian Boys A in an eight goal thriller in Ballyvackey. An Eoin Ryan hat trick made it 3-3 with only 5 minutes to go. Two late efforts from the Corinthians earned the Cork side a narrow 5-3 victory. Cian Crowley, Cian O'Callaghan and Eoin Ryan all impressed for Clon. Skibbereen rounded off a great weekend for the West Cork U12 Division with a fantastic 4-3 win in Crosshaven.
U14 Nat Cup
Skibbereen came from 2-0 down to Inishvilla to record a tremendous 3-2 away victory. A Dan MacEoin brace brought the sides level before Rudi Henwood snatched a dramatic late winner for Skibbereen. Ballydehob lost at home 3-0 to Greenwood and a severely depleted Togher Celtic were no match for Ringmahon Rangers despite Daniel Twomey scoring a late consolation. Bay Rovers won 3-1 away to Glounthane United thanks to goals from Padraigh Cronin, Gerry Harrington and Tom O’Sullivan. Drinagh Rangers accounted for Springfield Ramblers A in Cannon Crowley Park. Ranger’s impressive 4-1 victory came courtesy of goals from Alfie Hyland, Darren Sweetnam (2) and Michael Collins. Bunratty United enjoyed a tremendous 4-2 away win at Castleview. Sean Evans (2), Gavin MacIntaggart and Eddie Goggin scored the goals to give Bunratty a home tie with either Casement Celtic or Kilreen in the next round. Clonakilty AFC suffered a heavy defeat at home to Ardmore on Sunday morning. Stephen Vickery and Conor O’Brien were on the score sheet for the home side.
U16 Nat Cup
Bunratty United defeated fellow West Cork side, Togher Celtic 8-7 on penalties after a pulsating 2-2 draw. Sean Deasy and Dan O’Sullivan scored for Togher and Jack Twomey and Ger O’Callaghan for Bunratty in normal time. Daniel Hickey saved in the shootout for Bunratty before Michael Bailey made sure of the win with the decisive spot kick. Drinagh Rangers recorded a 4-1 win at home to Buttevant on Saturday afternoon. Goals from Jamie Walsh, Daniel Hayes, Paul Crowley and a cracker from Shane Connolly earned Rangers a famous victory. Drinagh are away to Ballincollig in the next round. An under strength Skibbereen were comprehensively beaten 7-1 by an impressive Cobh Ramblers side in Baltimore Road on Saturday afternoon. Mark Collins scored a late consolation for Skibb. Bay Rovers U16 first outing of the season ended in a 3-0 defeat at home to Leeds on Sunday.
SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys League - TEAM OF THE WEEK
Skibbereen U14 - Coming from 2-0 down to win away 3-2 at Inishvilla in U14 National Cup
SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys League - PLAYER OF THE WEEK
Eoghan O'Dwyer, Durrus U12 - Magnificent hat-trick that inspired Durrus to 4-1 victory over Park United in U12 National Cup
WEEKEND RESULTS
Thurs 20th Sept
SuperValu U12 League - Group 1
Leeside 1 Lyre Rovers 4
Sat 22nd Sept
U12 National Cup - Preliminary Round
Drinagh Rangers 3 Togher Celtic 1
Clonakilty AFC 3 Corinthian Boys A 5
Bunratty United 4 Everton 0
Durrus 4 Park United 1
U14 National Cup - Preliminary Round
Innishvilla 2 Skibbereen 3
Ballydehob 0 Greenwood 3
Castleview 2 Bunratty United 4
Drinagh Rangers 4 Springfield Ramblers A 1
Glounthaune United 1 Bay Rovers 3
Ringmahon Rangers 7 Togher Celtic 1
U16 National Cup - Preliminary Round
Castleview v Clonakilty AFC - Walkover awarded to Castleview
Togher Celtic 2 Bunratty United 2 - Bunratty won 8-7 on pens
Drinagh Rangers 4 Buttevant 1
Skibbereen 1 Cobh Ramblers 7
Sunday 23rd
U14 National Cup - Preliminary Round
Clonakilty AFC 2 Ardmore 10
U12 National Cup - Preliminary Round
Crosshaven 3 Skibbereen 4
U16 National Cup - Preliminary Round
Bay Rovers 0 Leeds 3
COMPEITION: U12 National Cup - Preliminary Round
TEAMS: Drinagh Rangers vs. Togher Celtic
DATE: Sat 22nd Sept 2007
VENUE: Cannon Crowley Park Drinagh
FINAL SCORE: Drinagh 3 Togher 1
SCORERS: Jake King (2) and Gary Lordan (Drinagh)
Niall Crowley (Togher)
Drinagh Rangers defeated Togher Celtic 3-1 in the Preliminary Round of the U12 National Cup in Cannon Crowley Park last Saturday. Goals from Jake King and Gary Lordan gave the home side a deserved victory in an all SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys League - National Cup tie.
Togher's Shane Crowley and Jake Inglis tested Drinagh goalkeeper, Conor O'Mahony, with a couple of long range efforts in the opening minutes. The home side should have taken the lead with their very first attack when Gary Lordan broke free of the Celtic defence. The Drinagh striker was denied a certain goal thanks to a brave stop from Jamie Reardon. Jake Inglis curled a free kick just wide of the upright as the frantic pace to the match showed no signs of letting up.
Drinagh had started well and caused some early moments of panic in the Togher defence but were caught napping when Niall Crowley put the visiting side ahead after 9 minutes. Crowley gained possession on the left wing and set off on a mazy dribble. The Togher winger slalomed past two defenders, cut inside and slipped a shot underneath the advancing Conor O'Mahony. Drinagh's response was immediate with Jake King turning a shot goalwards from the edge of the penalty area only to be denied by a stunning save from Jamie Reardon.
The home side were enjoying the majority of the possession but were unable to convert their chances. Togher were beginning to sit back on their 1-0 lead and defending deep from the edge of their penalty area. Celtic were made to pay for not building on their early lead when Drinagh equalised after 15 minutes. Jake King showed great reactions to stab the ball home after Riordan could only parry a rasping free kick from Don O'Driscoll. What the game lacked in quality it more than made up for in commitment and effort. Niall Crowley and Gary Lordan exchanged chances at either end. The half ended with the side’s level at 1-1.
Togher began the second half in determined mood and had the home side's defence on the back foot in the opening minutes. The game was delicately poised at 1-1 with the next goal crucial to the eventual outcome of the cup tie. A Wayne Rooney-like run from Jake King tore through the Togher defence only for the striker to shoot narrowly over.
The visitors were made to pay for not capitalising on all their possession when Drinagh took the lead in the 40th minute. Jamie Reardon pulled off a remarkable save to deny Stephen Crowley but Gary Lordan reacted quickest and turned the rebound into the net. Togher almost equalised when a Niall Crowley shot took a wicked deflection but O'Mahony scrambled to save.
Togher Celtic continued to press forward and as a result left gaping holes in defence. Drinagh took advantage and one counter attack left King with a one-on-one with Jamie Reardon but somehow the Drinagh striker managed to skew his shot wide. Celtic were visibly tiring as their huge second half efforts began to take its toll.
The home side made sure of the win with a third and clinching goal after 55 minutes. Jake King poached from close range to seal the win and send Drinagh Rangers into the first round of the U12 National Cup.
Jamie Reardon had a fine game in goal for Togher. Stephen Farrell, Owen Murray, Jake Inglis, Shane Crowley and Niall Crowley also put in commendable performances for the visitors. Conor O'Mahony, Kevin Dullea, Stephen Crowley and Don O'Driscoll were the pick of Drinagh's best players. It was the combined efforts and goals of strikers; Jake King and Gary Lordan that eventually swung the tie in Rangers' favour. Drinagh Rangers reward for overcoming the challenge of Togher is a First Round National Cup tie with - on the -th of October.
Drinagh Rangers: Conor O'Mahony, Seamus Murphy, Kevin Dullea (Captain), Odhran Connolly, Donal O'Donovan, Stephen Crowley, Don O'Driscol, Padraigh Cronin, Jack O'Sullivan, Jake King, Gary Lordan, Jamie Hurley, Diarmuid Kelly, Sam Kingston, Darren Collins, Ciaran Hurley and Dominic Fernandez.
Togher Celtic: Jamie Riordan, Thomas Daly, Stephen Farrell, Stephen O'Leary, Owen Murray, Syephen Connolly, Oisin Tremayne, Jake Inglis (Captain), Kenny Lynch, Shane Crowley, Niall Crowley, Andrew Doyle, James Coughlan, Danny Collins, Rian Hayden, Martin Murphy, Ronan O'Callaghan, Paul Collins, Jeremy O'Sullivan, Denis Kelleher and Michael Murray.
Referee: Anthony McDermott (WCSL)
SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys League – Weekend Roundup
The SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys League enjoyed a fantastic return in the U12, U14 and U16 National Cups with 10 teams gaining victories in their Preliminary Round ties.
U12 Nat Cup
Bunratty defeated Everton of the Cork Schoolboys League 4-0 in Rathvane on Saturday afternoon. Goals from Arron Barry, Fionn Hurley, Clodagh O'Callaghan and Conor O'Driscoll earned the home side a memorable victory. United face an away trip against either Midleton or Waterloo in the next round. Durrus recorded and emphatic 4-1 win at home to Park United. Eoghan O'Dwyer was the hero for Durrus with an inspiring hat trick. Brian O'Regan completed the scoring for the home side who are away to Greenwood A or Springfield Ramblers next. There was disappointment for Clonakilty AFC who were knocked out by Corinthian Boys A in an eight goal thriller in Ballyvackey. An Eoin Ryan hat trick made it 3-3 with only 5 minutes to go. Two late efforts from the Corinthians earned the Cork side a narrow 5-3 victory. Cian Crowley, Cian O'Callaghan and Eoin Ryan all impressed for Clon. Skibbereen rounded off a great weekend for the West Cork U12 Division with a fantastic 4-3 win in Crosshaven.
U14 Nat Cup
Skibbereen came from 2-0 down to Inishvilla to record a tremendous 3-2 away victory. A Dan MacEoin brace brought the sides level before Rudi Henwood snatched a dramatic late winner for Skibbereen. Ballydehob lost at home 3-0 to Greenwood and a severely depleted Togher Celtic were no match for Ringmahon Rangers despite Daniel Twomey scoring a late consolation. Bay Rovers won 3-1 away to Glounthane United thanks to goals from Padraigh Cronin, Gerry Harrington and Tom O’Sullivan. Drinagh Rangers accounted for Springfield Ramblers A in Cannon Crowley Park. Ranger’s impressive 4-1 victory came courtesy of goals from Alfie Hyland, Darren Sweetnam (2) and Michael Collins. Bunratty United enjoyed a tremendous 4-2 away win at Castleview. Sean Evans (2), Gavin MacIntaggart and Eddie Goggin scored the goals to give Bunratty a home tie with either Casement Celtic or Kilreen in the next round. Clonakilty AFC suffered a heavy defeat at home to Ardmore on Sunday morning. Stephen Vickery and Conor O’Brien were on the score sheet for the home side.
U16 Nat Cup
Bunratty United defeated fellow West Cork side, Togher Celtic 8-7 on penalties after a pulsating 2-2 draw. Sean Deasy and Dan O’Sullivan scored for Togher and Jack Twomey and Ger O’Callaghan for Bunratty in normal time. Daniel Hickey saved in the shootout for Bunratty before Michael Bailey made sure of the win with the decisive spot kick. Drinagh Rangers recorded a 4-1 win at home to Buttevant on Saturday afternoon. Goals from Jamie Walsh, Daniel Hayes, Paul Crowley and a cracker from Shane Connolly earned Rangers a famous victory. Drinagh are away to Ballincollig in the next round. An under strength Skibbereen were comprehensively beaten 7-1 by an impressive Cobh Ramblers side in Baltimore Road on Saturday afternoon. Mark Collins scored a late consolation for Skibb. Bay Rovers U16 first outing of the season ended in a 3-0 defeat at home to Leeds on Sunday.
SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys League - TEAM OF THE WEEK
Skibbereen U14 - Coming from 2-0 down to win away 3-2 at Inishvilla in U14 National Cup
SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys League - PLAYER OF THE WEEK
Eoghan O'Dwyer, Durrus U12 - Magnificent hat-trick that inspired Durrus to 4-1 victory over Park United in U12 National Cup
WEEKEND RESULTS
Thurs 20th Sept
SuperValu U12 League - Group 1
Leeside 1 Lyre Rovers 4
Sat 22nd Sept
U12 National Cup - Preliminary Round
Drinagh Rangers 3 Togher Celtic 1
Clonakilty AFC 3 Corinthian Boys A 5
Bunratty United 4 Everton 0
Durrus 4 Park United 1
U14 National Cup - Preliminary Round
Innishvilla 2 Skibbereen 3
Ballydehob 0 Greenwood 3
Castleview 2 Bunratty United 4
Drinagh Rangers 4 Springfield Ramblers A 1
Glounthaune United 1 Bay Rovers 3
Ringmahon Rangers 7 Togher Celtic 1
U16 National Cup - Preliminary Round
Castleview v Clonakilty AFC - Walkover awarded to Castleview
Togher Celtic 2 Bunratty United 2 - Bunratty won 8-7 on pens
Drinagh Rangers 4 Buttevant 1
Skibbereen 1 Cobh Ramblers 7
Sunday 23rd
U14 National Cup - Preliminary Round
Clonakilty AFC 2 Ardmore 10
U12 National Cup - Preliminary Round
Crosshaven 3 Skibbereen 4
U16 National Cup - Preliminary Round
Bay Rovers 0 Leeds 3
Friday, September 21, 2007
WCSL - Weekend Preview
There are 16 SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys League teams involved in U12, U14 and U16 National Cup Preliminary Round ties tomorrow. This weekend marks the busiest fixture list of the season for the West Cork clubs as they take on the cream of the Cork Schoolboys League in the National Cup.
U16 National Cup
Match of the day is in the Baltimore Road where Skibbereen entertain Cobh Ramblers in the preliminary round of the U16 National Cup. It promises be quite a game with the visit of one of the most prestigious clubs in Munster and Irish Soccer. Ramblers will provide the hosts with a massive challenge in their attempt to reach the first round proper. The West Cork side have some talented players so an exciting, open game is eagerly anticipated. Drinagh Rangers entertain Buttevant in Cannon Crowley Park with a 2:30pm kick off. Clonakilty AFC U16's are one of the few West Cork sides to have been drawn away from home in the Preliminary Round. Clon make an early morning journey to O'Sullivan Park to take on Castleview with a 10:30am start time.
There is an all SuperValu W.C.S.L. game with Togher Celtic at home to fellow U16 divisional side, Bunratty United at 12:30. The home side finished runners-up in both the U16 League and Cup competitions last season and home advantage may swing the tie in their favour. West Cork is guaranteed to have at least one representative in the first round, irrespective of the final result. Bay Rovers have home advantage in Lisheens, Kealkil for the visit of Leeds on Sunday with a 2:30pm kick off.
U14 National Cup
Only two SuperValu West Cork clubs have been handed home ties in the Preliminary Round of the U14 National Cup. Ballydehob have been drawn at home to Greenwood in Rathvane while Drinagh Rangers face the challenge of Springfield Ramblers A in Cannon Crowley Park tomorrow afternoon.
Skibbereen are the first West Cork U14 team in action tomorrow at 10:30am, away to Inishvilla in Skevanish. Togher Celtic U14's must travel to Ringmahon Park to face the challenge of Ringmahon Rangers with a 2pm kick off. Bay Rovers are also on the road and face Glounthaune United in Glenmore Park at 1:30pm. The Castleview and Bunratty United tie kicks off at 12:15 in O'Sullivan Park tomorrow. Clonakilty AFC and Ardmore clash in Ballyvackey, Clonakilty at 11:45am on Sunday morning.
U12 National Cup
The Under 12 draw has been kind to West Cork with four clubs handed home advantage tomorrow. Clonakilty AFC host Corinthian Boys A in Ballyvackey at noon. Durrus face Park United in the Community Field, Durrus, at 3pm while Bunratty United entertain Everton in Town Park, Schull at 2:30pm. There is another all SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys League tie with Drinagh Rangers and Togher Celtic clashing in Cannon Crowley Park at noon. Skibbereen are the only U12 West Cork team given an away tie in the Preliminary Round against Crosshaven in Camden at 2:30pm on Sunday.
WEEKEND FIXTURES
Sat 22nd Sept
U12 National Cup - Preliminary Round
Drinagh Rangers v Togher Celtic in Cannon Crowley Park Drinagh at 11am
Clonakilty AFC v Corinthian Boys A in Ballyvackey Clonakilty at Noon
Bunratty United v Everton in Town Park Schull at 2:30pm
Durrus v Park United in Community Field Durrus at 3.00pm
U14 National Cup - Preliminary Round
Innishvilla v Skibbereen in Skevanish at 10.30am
Ballydehob v Greenwood in Rathravane, Ballydehob at noon
Castleview v Bunratty United in O'Sullivan Park at 12.15pm
Drinagh Rangers v Springfield Ramblers A in Cannon Crowley Park Drinagh at 12:45
Glounthaune United v Bay Rovers in Glenmore Park at 1.30pm
Ringmahon Rangers v Togher Celtic in Ringmahon Park at 2.00pm
U16 National Cup - Preliminary Round
Castleview v Clonakilty AFC in O'Sullivan Park at 10.30am
Togher Celtic v Bunratty United in Togher at 12:30
Drinagh Rangers v Buttevant in Cannon Crowley Park Drinagh at 2:30pm
Skibbereen v Cobh Ramblers in Baltimore Road Skibbereen at 2:30pm
Sunday 23rd
U12 National Cup - Preliminary Round
Crosshaven v Skibbereen in Camden at 2.30pm
U14 National Cup - Preliminary Round
Clonakilty AFC v Ardmore in Ballyvackey Clonakilty at 11:45am
U16 National Cup - Preliminary Round
Bay Rovers v Leeds in Lisheens Kealkil at 2:30pm
U16 National Cup
Match of the day is in the Baltimore Road where Skibbereen entertain Cobh Ramblers in the preliminary round of the U16 National Cup. It promises be quite a game with the visit of one of the most prestigious clubs in Munster and Irish Soccer. Ramblers will provide the hosts with a massive challenge in their attempt to reach the first round proper. The West Cork side have some talented players so an exciting, open game is eagerly anticipated. Drinagh Rangers entertain Buttevant in Cannon Crowley Park with a 2:30pm kick off. Clonakilty AFC U16's are one of the few West Cork sides to have been drawn away from home in the Preliminary Round. Clon make an early morning journey to O'Sullivan Park to take on Castleview with a 10:30am start time.
There is an all SuperValu W.C.S.L. game with Togher Celtic at home to fellow U16 divisional side, Bunratty United at 12:30. The home side finished runners-up in both the U16 League and Cup competitions last season and home advantage may swing the tie in their favour. West Cork is guaranteed to have at least one representative in the first round, irrespective of the final result. Bay Rovers have home advantage in Lisheens, Kealkil for the visit of Leeds on Sunday with a 2:30pm kick off.
U14 National Cup
Only two SuperValu West Cork clubs have been handed home ties in the Preliminary Round of the U14 National Cup. Ballydehob have been drawn at home to Greenwood in Rathvane while Drinagh Rangers face the challenge of Springfield Ramblers A in Cannon Crowley Park tomorrow afternoon.
Skibbereen are the first West Cork U14 team in action tomorrow at 10:30am, away to Inishvilla in Skevanish. Togher Celtic U14's must travel to Ringmahon Park to face the challenge of Ringmahon Rangers with a 2pm kick off. Bay Rovers are also on the road and face Glounthaune United in Glenmore Park at 1:30pm. The Castleview and Bunratty United tie kicks off at 12:15 in O'Sullivan Park tomorrow. Clonakilty AFC and Ardmore clash in Ballyvackey, Clonakilty at 11:45am on Sunday morning.
U12 National Cup
The Under 12 draw has been kind to West Cork with four clubs handed home advantage tomorrow. Clonakilty AFC host Corinthian Boys A in Ballyvackey at noon. Durrus face Park United in the Community Field, Durrus, at 3pm while Bunratty United entertain Everton in Town Park, Schull at 2:30pm. There is another all SuperValu West Cork Schoolboys League tie with Drinagh Rangers and Togher Celtic clashing in Cannon Crowley Park at noon. Skibbereen are the only U12 West Cork team given an away tie in the Preliminary Round against Crosshaven in Camden at 2:30pm on Sunday.
WEEKEND FIXTURES
Sat 22nd Sept
U12 National Cup - Preliminary Round
Drinagh Rangers v Togher Celtic in Cannon Crowley Park Drinagh at 11am
Clonakilty AFC v Corinthian Boys A in Ballyvackey Clonakilty at Noon
Bunratty United v Everton in Town Park Schull at 2:30pm
Durrus v Park United in Community Field Durrus at 3.00pm
U14 National Cup - Preliminary Round
Innishvilla v Skibbereen in Skevanish at 10.30am
Ballydehob v Greenwood in Rathravane, Ballydehob at noon
Castleview v Bunratty United in O'Sullivan Park at 12.15pm
Drinagh Rangers v Springfield Ramblers A in Cannon Crowley Park Drinagh at 12:45
Glounthaune United v Bay Rovers in Glenmore Park at 1.30pm
Ringmahon Rangers v Togher Celtic in Ringmahon Park at 2.00pm
U16 National Cup - Preliminary Round
Castleview v Clonakilty AFC in O'Sullivan Park at 10.30am
Togher Celtic v Bunratty United in Togher at 12:30
Drinagh Rangers v Buttevant in Cannon Crowley Park Drinagh at 2:30pm
Skibbereen v Cobh Ramblers in Baltimore Road Skibbereen at 2:30pm
Sunday 23rd
U12 National Cup - Preliminary Round
Crosshaven v Skibbereen in Camden at 2.30pm
U14 National Cup - Preliminary Round
Clonakilty AFC v Ardmore in Ballyvackey Clonakilty at 11:45am
U16 National Cup - Preliminary Round
Bay Rovers v Leeds in Lisheens Kealkil at 2:30pm
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