Russell Rovers 3-19 Lisgoold 1-12

We collected our first brace of points in the JHL, Division 1 when we had an emphatic win over a depleted Lisgoold side in Shanagarry last Monday night, though it must be said that Rovers also began the game without five of our championship team.
Having elected to play with the strong breeze blowing into the road-end goal, we had opened up a 0-15 to 0-6 lead by half-time, with Brian Hartnett back to his best, shooting 0-9 from play and frees with deadly accuracy and Eoin Ivers and Ian Smiddy firing over three excellent points apiece.
Turning to play with wind advantage in the second half, Lisgoold got off to a perfect start with a goal from a tight angle in the 3rd minute but this was quickly cancelled out when a long delivery from a free by Dan Moynihan was scrambled to the net with the help of Eoin Ivers and Brian Crowley. Brian Hartnett pointed another three frees in this half to take his personal tally to 0-12 over the hour but probably the best move of the game came in the 17th minute when Dan Moynihan took off on a solo run before parting to Derek Crowley who continued the run deep into Lisgoold territory and his pin-point delivery found the unmarked Colin Crowley who billowed the net from the edge of the square. Substitute Eoin McGrath made his mark on the game with a point a minute later and the same player followed up with a goal when his speculative shot deceived the keeper and ended up in the net. By this stage Lisgoold had run out of steam and the league points were safely in the bag long before the final whistle.
Custodian Joe Walsh continues to settle in well between the posts since his transition from a forward role while the full-back trio consisting of Kevin Tattan, Paudie Higgins and Barry Fitzgerald provided excellent cover, with Paudie just off the plane from some exotic location abroad but showing no signs of jet-lag! David Whelehan, despite being just out of juvenile ranks, uses his physical strength to great effect and is not afraid to get stuck in while Anthony Walsh put in his usual hour of hard graft before retiring injured towards the end.
Team: Joe Walsh; Kevin Tattan, Padraig Higgins, Barry Fitzgerald; John Paul Ivers, Daniel Moynihan, David Whelehan; Anthony Walsh, Brian Hartnett; Ian Smiddy, Seamus Kearney, Tadgh Crowley; Chris Scanlon, Eoin Ivers, Brian Crowley.
Subs: Derek Crowley, Colin Crowley, Eoin McGrath, Andrew Hartnett.

Bereavement:
It was with regret that we learned of the death last week of a former great clubman, Paddy Egan of Monagurra, Shanagarry. A brother of the late Micky, Philly and Jackie who all hurled with distinction with the club in the 1940’s and 1950’s, Paddy was an outstanding administrator and served in a variety of positions, including that of chairman, selector, etc. A well-deserved guard of honour was provided by the club at both the removal and funeral and the flag-draped coffin was shouldered through the village by former colleagues and club personnel. To his wife Kitty, daughter Catherine, sister Margaret and other relatives and close friends, we wish to extend our deepest sympathy. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.

Aghada 0-15 Russell Rovers 0-9

For the second time in the space of six days we were eliminated from another hurling championship, this time the U21BHC, with poor shooting from both play and placed balls again being a contributing factor in this quarter-final tie played in Ballinacurra last Friday night. The opposition had their quota of wides too but that should not be of any concern to us.
The opening exchanges were even enough with points by Brian Hartnett (2f) and Eoin McGrath, leaving us trailing by the bare minimum after 20 minutes. But in the last 8 minutes of the half Aghada opened up a 5 points gap to put them 0-9 to 0-4 in front at the break with Hartnett getting our other point. Andrew Hartnett in goal made some good saves with the fullback line of Barry O’Keeffe, Pa Crowley and Paul Lane playing solidly in front of him while at the other end James Ahern was unlucky not to goal late in the half. The second half was a tit-for-tat affair and while we added 5 points to our tally, courtesy of Brian Hartnett (3), Kevin Tattan and Dan Moynihan, we also spurned a number of other good scoring opportunities which, if taken, would have put us a lot closer at the final whistle. Aghada were reduced to 14 men for a straight red card dismissal with about 10 minutes remaining but we were unable to take advantage of same.
Team: Andrew Hartnett; Barry O’Keeffe, Paul Lane; David Whelehan, Daniel Moynihan, Anthony Walsh; Kevin O’Brien, Kevin Tattan; Brian Hartnett, John Ahern, Eoin McGrath; John Burke, Luke Cullinane, Alan Cott.
Subs: James Ahern and John Paul Walsh (both used).

Russell Rovers 1-13 St Vincents 2-8

Despite being knocked out of the championship four weeks ago, our minor hurlers put up a good display in the penultimate round of the Premier 2 league away to St Vincents last Tuesday night week. By collecting both points on offer, our interest in the league is maintained and providing we can overcome Courcey Rovers at home in our last game, a place in the play-off awaits us.
St Vincents opened the scoring with 3 points in as many minutes before Daniel O’Brien opened our account with a good point in the 4th minute. Kevin O’Brien added two from frees and another by Eoin McGrath from play edged us in front at the end of the first quarter. An inspired sideline switch saw Kevin Ivers move from corner-back to full-forward which paid an immediate dividend when he grabbed a high ball and billowed the net from close range. Kevin O’Brien continued to excel from placed balls by raising three more white flags before the home side got in for a goal against the run of play in the 30th minute after we lost possession needlessly in the middle of the field. This left the half-time score at 1-8 to 1-4 in our favour.
The second half saw St Vincents upping the ante, scoring 1-4 while Eoin McGrath, Kevin O’Brien and David Whelehan replied with points for Rovers to leave the sides deadlocked with 5 minutes remaining. In the 27th minute Ciarán Mullins regained the lead with a well-taken point and Kevin O’Brien added an insurance point from a long range free to take his personal tally to 0-7. Aidan Beausang had to retire in the first half with an injury in the groin area which necessitated a brief visit to hospital and we would like to take this opportunity to wish him a speedy recovery.
Team: Andrew Hartnett; Aaron Beausang, Aidan Beausang, Kevin Ivers; Daniel O’Brien, David Whelehan, Paul Lane; Sean Maher, Kevin O’Brien; Eoin McGrath, Shane Fleming, Jack McGrath; Ciarán Mullins, Joseph O’Flynn, James Moynihan.
Subs: Daniel Guerin, Brian Whelehan, Colman Quinlan.

Fixtures:
JHL, Div 1: Russell Rovers v Lisgoold in Shanagarry on 23/8/10 at 7 pm

Bereavement:
The club extends its sympathy to the O’Sullivan family, Monagurra on the death of Marion’s father, Larry Horgan, last week. May his soul rest in peace.

Castlemartyr 0-18 Russell Rovers 1-11

We bowed out of this year’s East Cork Junior A hurling championship after a disappointing performance against current champions Castlemartyr in the well-prepared Pairc Uí Chinnéide venue, Killeagh last Saturday evening.
When the Rovers’ team and mentors sit down to reflect on this result in the cold light of day there is only one conclusion open to them and that is this was a game that we left behind us. Having defeated Carrigtwohill comfortably in the opening round and with Castlemartyr struggling to overcome the same opposition in the 3rd round, Rovers went into this quarter-final game confident that they could do the business but
unfortunately wayward shooting cost us dearly. We racked up nine wides in the opening half, many of which were from scoreable positions, and added another five in the second period. To add to our woes, we had to play 25 minutes against the wind in the second half with only 14 men which forced a forward to be moved outfield, leaving Castlemartyr with a spare man at the back to mop up loose ball which also proved costly in the final analysis.
Rovers opened the scoring with a point by Seamus Kearney in the first minute with Brian Hartnett adding four from play and frees and wing-back Dan Moynihan scoring a beauty from out near the left sideline to give us a one point advantage after 22 minutes. Two minutes later Anthony Walsh got through on goal and unselfishly off-loaded to Eoin Ivers on his right who made no mistake for the only goal of the game.
Our lead was short-lived, however, as the Reds fired over 4 points in a six minutes spell, three of which came from needless close-in frees. Rovers regained the lead with two points from John Ahern and Brian Hartnett in stoppage time to put us 1-8 to 0-9 ahead at the break.
With Castlemartyr turning to play with the strong breeze in the second period, this margin seemed far from adequate and so it proved to be. Another thorn in the Rovers side was the introduction of the injured ace marksman Jimmy Smiddy for the Reds who bagged 5 points from play and frees without having to exert himself while Rovers could only manage another three in the entire second half, courtesy of Barry Hartnett, Eoin Ivers and Brian Hartnett. We were finding it difficult to get the ball up-field and when we did, our inside forwards were outnumbered by a swarm defence.
For Rovers, Joe Walsh in goal didn’t put a foot wrong while in front of him Derek Crowley, after conceding two early points, went on to have a fine game. Barry Hartnett, Anthony Walsh and Kevin Tattan also tried hard.
Team: Joe Walsh; Anthony Archer, Derek Crowley, Barry Fitzgerald; John Paul Ivers Padraig Higgins, Daniel Moynihan; Kevin Hartnett (Capt), John Ahern; Brian Hartnett, Seamus Kearney, Barry Hartnett; Anthony Walsh, Eoin Ivers, Kevin Tattan.
Subs: Colin Crowley (used), Andrew Hartnett, Ian Smiddy, Kieran Ivers, Tadgh Crowley, Brendan Kearney, Brian Crowley, Kevin O’Brien, David Whelehan, Eoin McGrath, Aidan Beausang, Chris Scanlon, Paul Lane.

Blue Jeans Queen Festival
The Club would like to congratulate local girl Liz O’Brien, representing O’Brien’s Skip Hire, who was crowned 2010 Blue Jeans Queen last Sunday night and we hope you will enjoy your reign. The Club would like to thank everybody who helped to make this year’s Festival a resounding success, especially to the patrons who attended in huge numbers each night. Roll on 2011!

Russell Rovers 1-16 Sarsfields 3-7

Our U21 hurlers advanced to the next round of the championship when they had a well-merited though hard-earned win over a strong Sars B team in Ballinacurra last Saturday evening. We struggled to fulfil this fixture due to a lack of numbers but a few “inactive” players such as Pa Crowley, Luke Cullinane, Alan Cott, John Burke and John Paul Walsh answered the call and must be complimented for coming along at short notice to ensure that the game was played and victory secured.
Rovers had a disastrous start when we conceded a soft goal in the 2nd minute but three long-range points from placed balls against a strong wind by Dan Moynihan and a brace by Brian Hartnett left us just 3 points adrift after 20 minutes, 1-5 to 0-5. In the 23rd minute we suffered another set-back when a Sars free went all the way to the net but Rovers responded quickly with points from Brian Hartnett, Kevin O’Brien, Eoin McGrath and Tadgh Crowley to leave us trailing 2-6 to 0-9 at the break.
Turning to play with wind advantage in the second half, Rovers began to take control of the game with Hartnett converting four frees and Alan Cott adding another from play to put us one ahead. Then came the most decisive moment of the game when Eoin McGrath delivered a great ball from out on the right wing and the in-rushing Hartnett first-timed it off the air to the Sars net for a peach of a goal. But Sars weren’t ready to throw in the towel just yet. In the 25th minute Pa Crowley had no option but to ground his opponent and Sars goaled from the resultant 20 metre free to leave the bare minimum between the sides once more. Luke Cullinane gave us some breathing space with a good point in the 30th minute while Brian Hartnett had the final say with a pointed free in the 7th minute of stoppage time to bring his personal tally to 1-8. There were other fine displays from man of the match Dan Moynihan, Anthony Walsh, Pa and Tadgh Crowley, Kevin Tattan Aidan Beausang and Kevin O’Brien while Eoin McGrath in particular put in a tremendous hour’s work. We now play Aghada in the next round and hopefully all players will make themselves available for that game.
Team: Andrew Hartnett; Aidan Beausang, Pa Crowley, Paul Lane; David Whelehan, Dan Moynihan, Anthony Walsh; Kevin Tattan, Kevin O’Brien; Eoin McGrath, Tadgh Crowley, Brian Hartnett; John Burke, Luke Cullinane, Alan Cott.
Sub: John Paul Walsh.

Fixtures:
Our Junior A hurlers are back in the fray when they take on Castlemartyr in the quarter-final of the East Cork championship in Killeagh next Saturday night at 7 pm. Your support will be greatly appreciated.

Blue Jeans Queen Festival:
Our annual Blue Jeans Queen Festival takes place this coming weekend.

Report 24/07/10

Russell Rovers P2 Minor Hurling Championship versus Mayfield

Russell Rovers 1-6 Mayfield 2-14
Despite battling to the very end, our minors had to cede victory to a strong Mayfield side in this County Premier 2 minor hurling championship tie played in miserable conditions at Lisgoold on Wednesday, 14th July.
Rovers opened brightly with a point from the hard-working Kevin O'Brien in the third minute and while Mayfield levelled a minute later, a Brian Hartnett free and a point from Eoin McGrath put us two ahead before Mayfield replied with a point in the 10th minute. Hartnett put us two ahead again a minute later but Mayfield then went on a scoring blitz with five unanswered points in as many minutes to see them lead by three points at the end of the first quarter. Goalkeeper Andrew Hartnett did well to deflect a 20 metre free over the bar for a Mayfield point with five minutes to go and two minutes later Brian Hartnett converted a 65 following good work by Eoin McGrath. But Mayfield finished the half the stronger with two pointed frees to see them leading by 0-10 to 0-5 at the break.
To add to Rovers woes, the wind, which had been non-existent in the opening half, began to blow quite strongly against them at the start of the second half. Mayfield tagged on another point from a free within a minute of the resumption and then came a body blow from a Rovers point of view when a 20m free for Mayfield went to the back of the net. Brian Hartnett pegged a point back from a free in the 5th minute but this was cancelled out two minutes later. Then, picking up on a good pass from Jack McGrath, Hartnett finally got in for a goal in the 11th minute. But Rovers hopes of a revival were quickly dashed when Mayfield replied with a movement up field from the puck-out that ended in the net. They added two more points before the final whistle for a comprehensive win. Eoin McGrath, Paul Lane and Kevin O'Brien were tireless in their efforts for Rovers but overall Mayfield were the stronger, more balanced team and were better able to cope with the poor conditions on the night.
Team: Andrew Hartnett; Aaron Beausang, Kevin Ivers, Aidan Beausang; Daniel O'Brien, David Whelehan, Joseph O'Flynn; Brian Hartnett, Kevin O'Brien; Eoin McGrath, Paul Lane, Jack McGrath; Shane Fleming, Philip O'Neill, Sean Maher.
Subs: Daniel Guerin, Ricky Walsh, Kieran Walsh, Ciarán Mullins, Colman Quinlan, Martin O'Flynn, Brian Whelehan, David Casey, James Moynihan.

County Minor Hurling League

Russell Rovers 5-13 Cloughdubh 1-10
Our minors had a comprehensive win in Round 5 of the Premier 2 County Hurling League against an understrength Cloughdubh played in Shanagarry last Wednesday evening. The teams were evenly matched for the opening ten minutes with the visitors scoring the first point. Brian Hartnett levelled in the 10th minute and with the aid of good service coming from the half back line and midfield, he notched up a personal tally of 3-4 before half time. It wasn't all one way traffic however for Rovers and a defensive error in the 20th minute allowed Cloughdubh in for an easy enough goal. Daniel O'Brien too got in the frame for Rovers with a foray up field from half back. His well-struck shot went all the way to the net, assisted by Ciaran Mullins who unsighted the keeper. A point each from Jack McGrath and Sean Maher saw the Rovers in a comfortable position leading by 4-6 to 1-3 at the break.
With the visitors challenge fading, Rovers coasted along in the second half and three points each from Eoin McGrath, Hartnett and one from Kevin O'Brien were added to by a goal from substitute Kieran Walsh late in the game to see the home side end up easy winners on a score-line of 5-13 to 1-10. This win, the fourth out of five outings, puts Rovers in second place in the table behind Courcey Rovers.
Team : Andrew Hartnett, Aidan Beausang, Kevin Ivers, Ricky Walsh, Daniel O'Brien, David Whelehan, Joseph O'Flynn, Jack McGrath, Kevin O'Brien, Eoin McGrath, Paul Lane, Sean Maher, Ciarán Mullins, Brian Hartnett, Shane Fleming.
Subs used: David Casey, James Moynihan, Daniel Guerin, Kieran Walsh.

JAHC Draw:
The draw for the third round of the Junior A hurling championship was made at the East Cork Board meeting last Wednesday night with Russell Rovers receiving a bye to the quarter-final. Our opponents will come from the winners of Watergrasshill/Carrigtwohill v Castlemartyr. The quarter-finals must be played by the 1st August.

Russell Rovers 3-12 Carrigtwohill 1-10

Last Sunday afternoon in the well-prepared, sun-drenched Ballinacurra venue, we got over the first hurdle of the East Cork JAHC when we had what eventually proved to be a comfortable win over Carrigtwohill. But don’t let the score-line fool you, for this was not a stroll in the park by any means as Carrig proved to be dogged opponents for 50 minutes before they collapsed following our second goal.
Despite playing against the very strong wind blowing towards the road-end goal in the opening half, we began well with points from Brian Hartnett (2-f), John Ahern and Séamus Kearney and a cleverly-taken goal by Tony Walsh to put us 1-4 to 0-3 ahead after 15 minutes. However, we were not to score again for the remainder of the half as Carrig went on a scoring spree to lead by 1-9 to 1-4 at the break. Considering the strength of the wind, we felt this was a manageable lead as the sides changed ends.
Rovers wasted no time in taking advantage of the elements on the resumption of play as Tony Walsh and John Ahern fired over early points along with three converted frees from Brian Hartnett to put us on level terms at 1-9 apiece after 47 minutes. A minute later Ahern got his third and probably the best point of the game to regain the lead with Brian Hartnett adding another from play. Then came the most decisive score of the match when Kevin Hartnett and Eoin Ivers combined well to set up Brian Hartnett who unleashed a bullet to the roof of the Carrig net from 25 metres out to put us 5 points clear. This signalled the end of the Carrig challenge. In the 25th minute Tony Walsh got his second point to make him our top scorer from play (1-2) and our third goal came two minutes later when Séamus Kearney drilled the sliotar to the net at the second attempt from the edge of the small rectangle.
Our defensive unit, particularly the inside line, excelled in the second half to keep Carrig scoreless until the last puck of the game when they pointed from a 20 metre free. This was a very encouraging Rovers performance, especially by the younger players, Dan Moynihan, John Ahern, Brian Hartnett, Tony Walsh and Kevin Tattan and we can now look forward with optimism to the third round. Well done also to the management team consisting of Richie Lewis, Michael Kearney and David O’Brien, Martin O’Sullivan and Paddy Tattan.
Referee Maurice Mulcahy did an excellent job on the whistle and let the play flow.

Team: Joe Walsh; Anthony Archer, Derek Crowley, Barry Fitzgerald; John Paul Ivers Padraig Higgins, Daniel Moynihan; Kevin Hartnett (Capt), John Ahern; Brian Hartnett, Seamus Kearney, Barry Hartnett; Anthony Walsh, Eoin Ivers, Kevin Tattan.
Subs: Andrew Hartnett, Ian Smiddy, Kieran Ivers, Brendan Kearney, Colin Crowley, Brian Crowley, Tadgh Crowley, Chris Scanlon, David Whelehan, Eoin McGrath, Aidan Beausang, Paul Lane.

Congratulations:
Congratulations to Brian Hartnett on another fine performance for Cork minor hurlers last Saturday night in Pairc Ui Caoimh when he scored seven points from play and frees, despite receiving a limited supply of ball. Here’s hoping Cork can finish the business in Walsh Park, Waterford next Wednesday night week.

Munster Hurling Final Tickets:
The deadline for members submitting requests for tickets for the above game is 8 pm Tuesday, 29th June. Requests should be made to the Runaí, David Walsh on 0872678784.

Apart from a couple of challenge games, there has been little activity on the playing field to report over the past few weeks.

Best Wishes:
Best wishes to Kevin Moynihan and Rebecca Walsh who take part in the Primary and Camogie games at the intervals in the Cork-Tipperary senior and intermediate hurling championships in Pairc Ui Caoimh next Sunday.

Get Well Wishes:
Everyone in the club sends their best wishes to Matthew Fitzgerald for a speedy recovery after he sustained serious facial and dental injuries in a hurling challenge game between Russell Rovers and Aghada last Sunday morning week. This unsavoury incident is likely to bring a premature end to Matty’s playing season and with the first round of the Junior A hurling championship in just over a month’s time he is going to be sorely missed.

Kilbrittain 1-12 Russell Rovers 1-8

Our minor hurlers made the long trek to Kilbrittain last Thursday evening to play the home side in the 4th round of the Premier 2 MHL. This was a closely contested encounter for most of the hour until Kilbrittain secured victory with a late rally deep into injury time. Rovers began well with a point from Jack McGrath and three from Brian Hartnett to put us 0-4 to 0-1 in front after 20 minutes but the Carbery side hit back with five unanswered points in the remaining 10 minutes to go in at the break leading by 0-6 to 0-4. Indiscretions in the second period cost Rovers dearly as Kilbrittain grabbed four points from placed balls (six in all over the hour) but a Jack McGrath goal in the 10th minute helped to keep us in touch. Brian Hartnett added a brace of points, one from an 80 metre free, before Sean Maher fired over the equaliser in the 23rd minute.
As both sides went in search of a match-winning score, it was Kilbrittain who forged ahead with a lead point at the end of normal time. In the 4th minute of stoppage time a high dropping ball into the Rovers goalmouth deceived goalkeeper Daniel Guerin and ended up in the corner of the net but in fairness it must be said that this was a difficult shot to deal with as the sliotar appeared for a moment to be heading over the bar. Eoin McGrath pulled a point back a minute later but the home side restored their 4 points margin on the stroke of full time. Kilbrittain probably deserved to win insofar as they converted more of their scoring opportunities but Rovers certainly had enough chances to collect the league points on offer. Our fullback line consisting of Aaron Beausang, Kevin Ivers and Ricky Walsh deserve special mention for an outstanding display over the hour.
Team: Daniel Guerin; Aaron Beausang, Kevin Ivers, Ricky Walsh; Daniel O’Brien, Kevin O’Brien, David Whelehan; Brian Hartnett, Paul Lane; Eoin McGrath, Aidan Beausang, David Casey; Jack McGrath, Philip O’Neill, Joseph O’Flynn.
Subs: Sean Maher, Ciaran Mullins, Coleman Quinlan, Martin O’Flynn (all used), Shane Fleming, Kieran Walsh, Andrew Hartnett, Brian Whelehan.

Russell Rovers 1-8 Dungourney 4-12

Our junior hurlers suffered their third heavy defeat in Division 1 of the JHL when they were outplayed by a physically stronger Dungourney side in Shanagarry on the May Bank Holiday Monday evening. Rovers began well enough and in fact led by a point at the end of the first quarter but a three-goal salvo by the visitors in as many minutes put us on the back foot and left us chasing the game. Five points from play and frees by Brian Hartnett and another by Ian Smiddy saw us trailing by 3-3 to 0-6 at the break.
The second half followed the same pattern as the first with Dungourney stretching their lead further while Tadgh Crowley and Brian Hartnett added two points for Rovers. In the 20th minute we raised our first green flag in our three league games to date when Eoin Ivers (who had been re-introduced at full-forward) rattled the far corner of the net with a powerful drive after John Paul Ivers and Brian Hartnett had combined well to set up the score. We failed to score again while Dungourney finished strongly, scoring 1-4 in the last 8 minutes, to run out deserving winners. Hopefully, we’ll be able to field our best team in the next round and get back to winning ways.
Team: Eoin Ivers; Anthony Archer, Derek Crowley, Barry Fitzgerald; Matt Fitzgerald Paudie Higgins, David Whelehan; John Paul Ivers, John Ahern; Anthony Walsh, Seamus Kearney, Kevin Tattan; Tadgh Crowley, Brian Hartnett, Ian Smiddy.
Subs: Joe Walsh, Colin Crowley, Brendan Kearney, Brian Crowley, Aidan Beausang.

Congratulations:
Congratulations to Brian Hartnett on his outstanding display for Cork minor hurlers against Tipperary in Pairc Ui Caoimh on 28th April when he amassed the grand total of 1-14 (1-7 from play). This was one of the best displays by a Cork minor forward in a long time as he beat Tipp almost single-handedly in the last ten minutes of extra time.
Well done Brian and the best of luck in the Munster semi-final against Waterford on 24th June, also in Pairc Ui Caoimh.

Castlelyons 3-14 Russell Rovers 2-14

Our minor hurlers made their debut in the Premier 2 MHC when they lost to a strong Castlelyons side after extra time in a well prepared Watergrasshill venue last Tuesday evening. This was an absorbing and highly entertaining contest between two evenly matched teams who gave a great exhibition of scoring while at the same time displaying a high standard of sportsmanship. On our side Philip O’Neill grabbed a brace of well-taken goals while midfielder Brian Hartnett hit over twelve marvellous points, off both his right and left and from various angles and distances. Indeed, many of them would do justice to any grade of hurling.
Castlelyons opened the scoring with points in the 3rd and 5th minutes before Eoin McGrath set the tone of the game when he soled through from midfield and hit over our first score in fine style. Three minutes later Philip O’Neill got the first of his two goals with a deft overhead flick on a dropping ball and Brian Hartnett followed up with his opening point from a pass provided by the hard-working Daniel O’Brien. Our defence was being well marshalled by Kevin O’Brien in the pivotal position with good support from David Whelehan and Aaron Beausang while Paul Lane was playing his part in an unfamiliar role at midfield. As the game progressed Castlelyons began to exert pressure which yielded 1-6 between the 12th and 24th minutes while Rovers could only respond with just two Brian Hartnett points in the same period. We were now 4 points adrift and the game looked like slipping away from us until Philip O’Neill pounced for his second goal. Aidan Beausang robbed a defender as he was about to clear and the sliotar fell kindly to O’Neill who duly despatched it to the net for a badly needed goal. Rovers finished the half strongly with 3 points from Hartnett to give us a slender half-time lead of 2-7 to 1-9.
We had a poor start to the second half, conceding 1-2 inside seven minutes but Brian Hartnett hauled us back into the game again with another 3 points, along with a fine score from Jack McGrath. Castlelyons edged in front with a point in the 25th minute but the mercurial Hartnett came to our rescue once more with the equaliser two minutes from the end to send the game into extra time with the scoreboard reading
2-12 apiece. As both sides began to show signs of leg weariness in ET, scores were at a premium. Two Rovers points by Hartnett and one from Castlelyons in the first period gave us a one-point advantage at the break but unfortunately we failed to score again. Castlelyons levelled matters once more within a minute of the resumption and four minutes later lady luck deserted us when a well-struck shot by Eoin McGrath from close range brought an outstanding save from the Castlelyons keeper. Play switched quickly to the other end of the field where Castlelyons got in for what proved to be a match-winning goal, though there were strong suspicions of a square ball infringement. Shortly afterwards, Rovers keeper Daniel Guerin brought off a spectacular point-blank save to maintain our hopes of salvaging the game. We spent the remaining two minutes camped in the Castlelyons half of the field in search of an equalising goal but to no avail. This was a great performance by a young Rovers team – well done lads and to coach Mossy Walsh.
Apart from losing the game, it was also disappointing to see so little Rovers support present compared to that of Castlelyons. Hopefully, this will be rectified as we try to get things back on track via the back-door which will probably be played in July.

Team: Daniel Guerin; Aaron Beausang, Kevin Ivers, Shane Fleming; Daniel O’Brien, Kevin O’Brien, David Whelehan; Brian Hartnett (Capt), Paul Lane; Eoin McGrath, Aidan Beausang, Jack McGrath; David Casey, Philip O’Neill, Sean Maher.
Subs: Ciaran Mullins, James Moynihan, Martin O’Flynn (all used), Joseph O’Flynn, Ricky Walsh, Kieran Walsh, Coleman Quinlan, Brian Whelehan, Andrew Hartnett, Shane Casey.

Erins Own 5-17 Russell Rovers 0-10

Our junior hurlers were on the receiving end of a second humiliating defeat in the JHL inside a week when we were completely outplayed by a far superior Erins Own side in Caherlag last Saturday evening. Playing second fiddle in all areas of the field in the opening half, we had no answer to the hurling intensity and fitness of the home side, though it should be mentioned that we had to line out without one-third of our first choice team.
The score-line stood at 3-12 to 0-2 at the break with Rovers points coming from Joe Walsh and a converted free by Dan Moynihan. The easy option at this stage was to throw in the towel and head for the sanctuary of the dressing-room. But to their credit, they took the game to their opponents and matched them score for score for most of the second half until Erins Own got their fifth goal deep into stoppage time.
Substitute Brendan Kearney put over one of the best points of the game in the 32nd minute with Ian Smiddy adding another a minute later. Further points by Dan Moynihan (0-2f), Tony Walsh, Brian Crowley and Seamus Kearney (0-2) brought our tally to double figures, the same as our previous outing against Sars. We never looked like raising a green flag while Erins Own bagged five, with a few of them being of the soft variety. Best for Rovers were John Paul Ivers, Paudie Higgins, Kevin Tattan and particularly Tony Walsh.
Team: Eoin Ivers; Anthony Archer, Paudie Higgins, Barry Fitzgerald; Colin Crowley, Matt Fitzgerald, John Paul Ivers; Kevin Tattan, Dan Moynihan; Tony Walsh, Seamus Kearney, Tadgh Crowley; Ian Smiddy, Joe Walsh, Alan Cott.
Subs: Brendan Kearney and Brian Crowley (both used).

Bride Rovers 0-13 Russell Rovers 1-6

Our return to Junior A championship ranks was short-lived when we lost out to Bride Rovers by a margin of 4 points in this back-door game played under lights in Cobh last Friday night. Lining out without several first choice players, we began the game with an extra man in the half-back line to absorb the expected early pressure from Bride Rovers who raced into a 6 points lead before Kevin Tattan and Dan Moynihan opened our account with points in the 23rd and 28th minutes. We enjoyed enough possession to be at least on level terms at the break but poor shooting, sometimes from distance and difficult angles, cost us dearly in the opening half in which we accumulated 8 wides while our opponents had none. That, in a nutshell, was the main difference between the sides. We trailed by 0-8 to 0-2 at half time and while it wasn’t an insurmountable lead, the second half was always going to be an uphill battle.
The Rathcormac side stretched their lead to 7 points within 15 seconds of the re-start when one of their forwards was left completely unmarked. But there’s a lot of resilience in this Russell Rovers side and I am sure that atoning for the heavy defeat suffered at the hands of the same opposition in the 2009 Junior B final last February was foremost in their minds. They took the game by the scruff of the neck and by the 10th minute the deficit had been cut to a single point. First, Kieran Ivers rifled home the only goal of the game, followed by points from Derek Crowley and Barry Hartnett (2) and suddenly the game was back in the melting pot. Our attack continued to apply pressure which yielded three frees within scoring range but unfortunately none were converted. Bride Rovers recovered to increase their tally by another 4 points to put the game out of our reach while Colin Crowley added a consolation point two minutes from time which brought an early end to championship football for the year.
Team: Michael Mannion; Brian Crowley, Seamus Kearney, John Paul Ivers; Anthony Walsh, Eoin Ivers, Kieran Ivers; Derek Crowley, Colin Crowley; Tadgh Crowley, Barry Hartnett, John Ahern; Anthony Archer (Capt), Daniel Moynihan, Kevin Tattan.
Subs: Joseph Walsh, Eoin McGrath, David Whelehan, Brendan Kearney, Alan Cott, Chris Scanlon.

Russell Rovers 1-16 Eire Og 2-5

Our minor hurlers continued their good run in the Premier 2 MH league when they had 8 points to spare over Eire Og in Ovens last Thursday evening, having lead by 1-8 to 2-1 at half time. Philip O’Neill (1-2), Brian Hartnett (0-7) and Eoin McGrath (0-4) were in fine scoring form, along with substitute Ciaran Mullins (0-2) and a marvellous point by wing-back Daniel O’Brien from almost 100 yards. Other good performances by Kevin Ivers, Kevin O’Brien and Sean Maher ensured our third win in the league before we play Castlelyons in the first round of the championship on the 20th April.
Team: Daniel Guerin; Shane Fleming, Aaron Beausang, Kevin Ivers; Daniel O’Brien, Kevin O’Brien, David Whelehan; Brian Hartnett, Paul Lane; Eoin McGrath, Aidan Beausang, David Casey; Jack McGrath, Philip O’Neill, Joseph O’Flynn.
Subs: Ciaran Mullins, Sean Maher, Ricky Walsh, Martin Flynn, James Moynihan.

Russell Rovers 0-10 Sarsfields 4-16

We opened our junior hurling league campaign with a comprehensive defeat by a very strong Sars side in Shanagarry last Sunday morning. The visitors dominated in all sectors of the field and having lead by 1-10 to 0-6 at the break, they turned the screw in the second half to pile on the scores and run out convincing winners.

Erins Own 1-8 Russell Rovers 0-10

After several postponements and three different venues, this Junior A football championship 1st round tie was eventually played in Carrigtwohill’s old pitch last Saturday evening with Rovers going down by the narrowest of margins in their first appearance in Junior A ranks since 1990. This was a most disappointing defeat and one which must have had our team mentors scratching their heads at the final whistle, wondering how we managed to lose a game that was there for the taking at half-time.
Rovers opened the scoring with a pointed free from Barry Hartnett in the 3rd minute but then Erins Own took charge with four unanswered points over the next 15 minutes before John Ahern stopped the slide with a well-taken point off his left peg in the 18th minute. This was followed by three equally good points by Barry Hartnett, Kevin Hartnett and Barry Fitzgerald, all of which involved some excellent inter-passing play. Indeed, we were unlucky not to get a goal when Kevin Tattan slipped a neat pass across the face of the goalmouth but the extra pace on it just put it out of the reach of Paudie Higgins.
Ahead by 0-5 to 0-4 at the break and turning over to play with the aid of a strong wind in the second period, we failed to push home our advantage. The Caherlag side seized control once again and inflicted serious damage in the opening ten minutes, notching up 1-3 without reply to go 5 points in front. Their goal came from a move which began with a stray Rovers pass at the other end though it must be said that our defence were also guilty of some slack marking. The loss of Anthony Walsh through injury was a major blow and the game now looked out of Rovers’ reach but to their credit they hit back with a good point by Kevin Tattan, who was surprisingly taken off later, and 4 points by Barry Hartnett, two of them beauties, while Erins Own added one more to their tally. We tried in vain to snatch a draw in injury time but when Ian Smiddy was harshly penalised for over-holding, our last chance had gone.
We now meet Bride Rovers in the losers group which will be fixed shortly.
Team: Michael Mannion; Brian Crowley, Seamus Kearney, John Paul Ivers; Anthony Walsh, Eoin Ivers, Anthony Archer (Capt); Derek Crowley, Colin Crowley; Barry Fitzgerald, Barry Hartnett, Padraig Higgins; Kevin Hartnett, Kevin Tattan, John Ahern.
Subs: Kieran Ivers, Kevin Walsh, Ian Smiddy, Daniel Moynihan (all used), Joe Walsh, Alan Cott, Brendan Kearney, Chris Scanlon, Eoin McGrath, Aidan Beausang, Andrew Hartnett.

Our junior footballers received their toughest test to date but responded admirably when they came up against a strong Castlemartyr side in our sixth outing of the JFL played in Shanagarry last Saturday evening in ideal weather conditions. The game had all the signs of a local derby and was played with a strong physical and competitive edge to it throughout. Lining out without the services of Eoin Ivers and the Hartnett brothers, the visitors looked the more impressive team in the early exchanges and raced into a two points lead inside the opening 5 minutes before Tadgh Crowley opened our account with a fisted point after his goal-bound shot brought a great save out of the Reds net-minder. A well-taken goal and two points by Paudie Higgins kept us in touch and we were happy to be trailing by only three points at the break, 1-6 to 1-3.
Rovers upped the ante on the resumption of play and with all six defenders putting up the shutters along with strong support from the midfield pairing of Colin and Derek Crowley, we managed to keep Castlemartyr scoreless for the next 22 minutes. Points by Colin Crowley, Paudie Higgins and Kevin Tattan and a brilliant goal by John Ahern following a great solo run, put us in a commanding position to close out the game. But a lack of discipline towards the end cost us dearly when we conceded three frees in as many minutes, all of which were converted, to leave the sides deadlocked at 2-6 to 1-9. In the 28th minute it looked like we had both league points in the bag when we won a free about 40 metres out which Paudie Higgins expertly slotted over the bar but the Reds came back a minute later to tie the game again. Then, just before the full-time whistle we were awarded another free from about the same distance out on the left wing which was taken quickly, blocked down and cleared when it might have been more prudent to let Paudie try to score direct again. Still, a draw was a satisfying and probably fair result with the game serving as ideal preparation for our championship outing next weekend.
Team: Michael Mannion; Brian Crowley, Seamus Kearney, John Paul Ivers; Anthony Walsh, Anthony Archer, Barry Fitzgerald; Derek Crowley, Colin Crowley; Ian Smiddy, Padraig Higgins, Tadgh Crowley; John Ahern, Kevin Tattan, Alan Cott.
Subs: James Furlong, Kieran Ivers (both used), Barry O’Keeffe, Eoin McGrath, Paul Lane, Chris Scanlon.

Russell Rovers 0-11 Valley Rovers 0-7
Under the tutorship of Mossy Coffey-Walsh, our minor hurlers continued their excellent start to the Premier 2 minor hurling league with a well-merited win over Valley Rovers, played in Shanagarry last Sunday morning. Well done lads.

Condolences
The club wishes to extend sincere sympathy to the Higgins and McNamara families, Ballycotton on the untimely death of Mrs Anne Higgins last week.
Sympathy is also extended to the Murray family on the recent death of Mrs May Murray, Ballybraher. May they both rest in peace.

Report 16/03/10

Russell Rovers 0-7 Dungourney 0-7
Our junior footballers were back in action last Saturday evening when they played Dungourney away in Round 5 of the JFL, Division 2. It was a vastly improved performance on the previous Wednesday night’s game and ended in a share of the spoils which was probably a fair result, though we had chances to collect both points on offer. Both sides were guilty of some poor shooting throughout, however the radar of both Barry Harnett on Rovers side and John Ronayne on behalf of the Duns should be singled out. Of the final tally, Barry scored 6 points while John claimed all 7 for the home side.
Rovers backs and midfield saw plenty of the ball but, as so often happened, moves broke down when within shooting range. This was partly due to Dungourney having an extra man in the full back line as Paudie Higgins adopted the role of sweeper between our two lines of defence. Our other scorer was Derek Crowley who kicked over a fine point after good work from Colin Crowley. Wing backs Barry Fitzgerald and particularly Anthony Walsh surged forward at every opportunity while the full-back line was again well marshalled by Seamus Kearney.
We had some good spells of possession in the opening half, however this was not reflected on the scoreboard. The sides were deadlocked at 4 points apiece at the break and the win was there for either side to take it. In truth, both sides gave it everything and with time running out we found ourselves a point in arrears but Barry Hartnett secured the draw with a pointed free just before the final whistle.

Team: Michael Mannion; Brian Crowley, Seamus Kearney, J.P. Ivers; Barry Fitzgerald, Eoin Ivers, Anthony Walsh; Colin Crowley, Derek Crowley; John Ahern, Barry Hartnett, Tadgh Crowley; Kevin Tattan, Paudie Higgins and Alan Cott.
Subs: Kevin Walsh, James Furlong (both used).

Congratulations
Congratulations to Michael Mannion on winning an Ireland medal with Cork College of Commerce last Wednesday. Mike was in goals in their 1-0 win over Enniskillen South West College in the final of the Umbro Plate held at C.I.T.
Congratulations and best wishes are also extended to 11-year old local girl Alison Barry for her starring role as Colin Farrell’s daughter in the recently released film “Ondine”. Alison is the daughter of proud parents Michael and Helena Barry, Monagurra.

Russell Rovers 3-7 Carraig na bhFear 0-10

Our minor footballers continued their good start in the MBFL when they had a six points win away to Carraig na bhFear last Saturday afternoon. The home side raced into a 3 points lead inside ten minutes but an Eoin McGrath goal in the 15th minute levelled matters. The sides exchanged 3 points apiece over the next 15 minutes with Rovers scores coming from Andrew Hartnett, Kevin O’Brien (free) and Eoin McGrath.
Then, in the 30th minute a peach of a goal by Jack McGrath from out on the wing gave us a 3 points cushion at the break, 2-3 to 0-6. Carraig na bhFear reduced the deficit to the bare minimum within two minutes of the resumption but Sean Maher and Andrew Hartnett quickly restored our advantage. Neither team managed to score over the next 15 minutes until substitute Ciarán Mullins put daylight between the sides with a well-taken goal in the 22nd minute. Eoin McGrath and Andrew Hartnett added two more points to seal a well-merited if unexpected victory. Goalkeeper Joseph Flynn made some fine saves to keep a clean sheet while outfield David Whelehan, Kevin O’Brien, Aidan Beausang and Eoin McGrath were to the fore in what was a fine team display.
Team: Joseph Flynn; Ricky Walsh, Aaron Beausang, Kevin Ivers; Aidan Beausang, David Whelehan, Daniel O’Brien; Kevin O’Brien, Sean Maher; Eoin McGrath, Andrew Hartnett, Jack McGrath; Michael Furlong, Philip O’Neill, David Casey.
Subs: Ciarán Mullins, Martin Flynn, Shane Fleming, Daniel Guerin, James Moynihan,
(all used), Colman Quirke, Shane Casey, Paul Lane.

Cobh 0-15 Russell Rovers 0-6

Our junior footballers travelled to Cobh last Wednesday night to play our fourth game in the JFL, Division 2, under lights but had to come away empty-handed. In a game of contrasting halves, the host team were a completely transformed side to the one that we defeated by 13 points in the corresponding game last year. They were physically stronger and fitter and we found it difficult to counteract their runners off the ball whenever they attacked. Yet, we matched them man for man for much of the opening half and trailed by only two points at the break, 0-5 to 0-3, but we lost our shape in the second period while Cobh seemed to move up a couple of gears and began to fire over points at their ease, some of which were the result of wayward passing on our part. We opened the scoring in the first minute through a John Ahern point following a good solo run, though he was unlucky not to have goaled after his shot clipped the top of the crossbar. Paudie Higgins added another from a free before James Furlong got our best point of the game. Our second half scores all came from substitutes – Kevin Tattan, Joe Walsh and Ian Smiddy.
With the first round of the Junior A championship looming on the horizon, this defeat is a timely reminder of what needs to be done if we are to have any chance of matching our opponents, Erins Own.
Team: Kevin Walsh; Anthony Walsh, Seamus Kearney, John Paul Ivers; Anthony Archer, Eoin Ivers, James Ahern; Derek Crowley, Colin Crowley; Tadgh Crowley, Padraig Higgins, James Furlong; Barry Fitzgerald, John Ahern, Alan Cott.
Subs: Kevin Tattan, Ian Smiddy and Joseph Walsh (all used).

.

Russell Rovers 5-6 Glanmire 0-8

A much improved performance saw our footballers collect their second brace of points in this JFL Division 2 game played in sunny Sarsfields Court, Glanmire last Saturday afternoon, reversing the result of the corresponding game last year. After a disappointing display against Bride Rovers in the 2009 East Cork Junior B Final a couple of weeks ago, this was a game that Rovers badly needed to win to restore morale and succeeded in doing so in impressive style. The launch pad for this decisive win was our half-back line, consisting of Anthony Archer, Barry Fitzgerald and particularly Eoin Ivers, who mopped up almost everything that came their way in the opening half, setting up regular attacks along with the hard-working midfield duo of Colin and Derek Crowley.
Barry Hartnett opened the scoring with a pointed free in the 5th minute and then in a six minute blitz midway in the half Rovers billowed the Glanmire net on three occasions to effectively end the game as a contest. The first of these goals came from Paudie Higgins who started and ended the move, followed by another from John Ahern with Higgins providing the final pass and Kevin Tattan grabbed the third with Ahern the provider. Another Barry Hartnett point made it 3-2 to no score before Glanmire finally got on the scoreboard with two pointed frees. Kevin Tattan added an excellent point to his earlier goal before Glanmire replied with their third point to leave the half-time score reading 3-3 to 0-3.
Glanmire enjoyed a brief period of dominance early in the second half which yielded just two points but three more points from play and frees by Barry Hartnett and a well-taken goal by Derek Crowley killed off any hope of a come-back by the home side, though they did manage to add three further points towards the end of the game. A minute from the end John Ahern capped a fine performance with a cracking goal into the far corner of the net which served to emphasise our superiority on the day, though it must be said that this was a rather poor display by the home side.
Team: Mike Mannion; Brian Crowley, Seamus Kearney, John Paul Ivers; Anthony Archer, Eoin Ivers, Barry Fitzgerald; Derek Crowley, Colin Crowley; Paudie Higgins, Barry Hartnett, Daniel Moynihan; Alan Cott, Kevin Tattan, John Ahern.
Subs: Tadgh Crowley, Joe Walsh, Kevin Walsh, James Furlong, Brendan Kearney (all used) and Kieran Ivers.

Russell Rovers 0-10 Cloyne 0-9
Our minors completed a good week-end on the football front with a hard-earned narrow win over near neighbours Cloyne in the opening round of the Minor B league, played in Cloyne last Saturday evening. The physically stronger home side lead at the break by 0-7 to 0-6 after we squandered several gilt-edged scoring opportunities in the opening half. Cloyne increased their lead to three points early in the second period but our lads stuck to their task and clawed back the deficit to draw level coming into the closing stages of the game. With time running out, Brian Hartnett slotted over the winning point from a free for a deserved victory, having earlier hit the post also from a placed ball. Best for Rovers were Kevin Ivers at full-back, Kevin O’Brien, Brian Hartnett, Eoin McGrath, Sean Maher and Aidan Beausang.
Referee Pa Beausang did well considering that this was his first game in charge.
Team: David Casey (0-1); Ricky Walsh, Kevin Ivers, Michael Furlong (0-1), Aidan Beausang, Aaron Beausang, David Whelehan; Kevin O’Brien (0-3), Brian Hartnett (0-4), Eoin McGrath (0-1), Sean Maher, Andrew Hartnett; Ciarán Mullins, Philip O’Neill, Jack McGrath.
Subs used: Joseph Flynn, Daniel Guerin and Shane Fleming.

Report 8/02/10

Russell Rovers 2-18 Aghada 1-4
We kicked off the new season with a facile win over neighbours Aghada in the opening round of the JFL, Division 2 in Shanagarry last Saturday afternoon.
Eoin Ivers set the tone of the game with a well-taken point in the first minute which was followed by a string of further points from Colin Crowley, Daniel Moynihan, John Ahern (0-2), Eoin again, Paudie Higgins and Brian Hartnett. Many of these scores were kicked from long range and with uncanny accuracy which must have pleased the team management. In the 18th minute Brian Hartnett put the game beyond Aghada’s reach with a gem of a goal and just before the break the same player rattled the Aghada crossbar with Ian Smiddy on hand to slot over the re-bound to leave the half-time score reading 1-9 to 0-1.
The second period followed the same pattern as the first as Rovers doubled their first half tally with scores from Ian Smiddy, John Paul Ivers (0-2), Eoin Ivers, Dan Moynihan, Paudie Higgins (1-2) and substitute Kevin Walsh (0-2). Aghada did get in to score 1-2 in the final ten minutes by which time we had our full complement of subs on the field. A notable feature of the game from a Rovers’ perspective was that both midfielders and the entire forward division contributed on the score-sheet.
Mike Mannion in goal had little to do as Anthony Walsh, Derek Crowley and Anthony Archer dominated in defence.
Team: Mike Mannion; Anthony Walsh, Derek Crowley, Barry Fitzgerald; James Furlong, Anthony Archer, Seamus Kearney; Colin Crowley, John Paul Ivers; Padraig Higgins, John Ahern, Daniel Moynihan; Ian Smiddy, Eoin Ivers, Brian Hartnett.
Subs: Kevin Walsh, Brian Crowley, James Ahern, Alan Cott, Eoin McGrath, David Whelehan, Tadgh Crowley.

JBFC Final
All roads lead to Castlelyons next Saturday afternoon as we take on favourites Bride Rovers in the long-awaited 2009 East Cork Junior B football championship final. It is 23 years ago since we last appeared in the final of this competition (when we beat Midleton in Cloyne in 1986) so please lend your support next Saturday. The game is timed to start at 3.30 pm but please check locally for any changes to the fixture.

Fundraiser
As you are aware, fundraising is an essential element of running a club. Our first fundraising event of the year has just been launched by co-ordinators Barry Fitzgerald and Barry Hartnett to help defray never-ending costs. This fundraiser is formed on a prediction basis. Participants purchase a sheet containing 25 questions which have a variety of answers attached. They select the answer they consider to be the most appropriate and points are then allocated for each correct answer provided by the individual. The 25 questions cover a wide range of popular sporting events taking place during 2010, including predicting the All-Ireland hurling and football champions, Heineken Cup and Six Nations champions, Golf Majors, F.A Cup and Premier League champions, World Snooker and Formula One champions, Tennis Grand Slams, etc, etc.
Question sheets are available from any junior player or member of the committee. Sheets cost €20 each with a first prize of €500 going to the person with the highest number of points, €200 for second place and €100 for third place. Answer sheets should be returned to the seller as early as possible once completed. Please note that an absolute deadline of February 12th is in place so you are urged to complete and return your answers before that date to ensure entry into the competition. Applications submitted after that date cannot be accepted. This is an interesting and novel competition to test your sporting knowledge and your support would be greatly appreciated.

JBFC Final
The long-awaited 2009 Junior B Football Final versus Bride Rovers has at last been fixed for Saturday, 13th February at 3 pm. Venue is unknown at time of going to press so please check locally or on our website for up to date information on this fixture.

AGM

The club held its AGM on Sunday, 6th December in the clubrooms, Shanagarry with a large crowd in attendance.
The outgoing Chairman, John Hartnett, in his opening address welcomed all present and thanked everyone who helped in any way in the running of the club in 2009. He said that while the Junior A hurlers bowed out of the championship disappointingly, the Junior footballers, under the guidance of Mossy Tattan, made amends by reaching the County B final and also the East Cork Junior B final which remains to be played. Our minor hurlers made history by capturing the East Cork Minor A title for the first time ever following outstanding victories over Cloyne and Youghal. He thanked our various sponsors for their continued support without whom we would find it difficult to meet our financial commitments. He announced he was standing down after three years of commendable leadership at the helm but offered to continue on as a member of the committee.
The Runaí, David Walsh, then presented a comprehensive report on the club’s activities during the year, followed by an equally detailed financial account from outgoing Treasurer Pat Higgins. Seamus Kennefick then presided over the election of Officers and Committee for the coming year which resulted as follows:
President: James O’Sullivan; Vice-Presidents: John Shanahan, John Stack, Richard Fitzgerald (Shanagarry), Sean Walsh and Robert Kennefick. Chairman: Richard Fitzgerald (Loughane); Vice-Chairman: John Moynihan; Runaí: David Walsh; Assistant Runaí: John Hartnett; Treasurer: Tim Cummins; Assistant Treasurer: Pat Higgins; Registrar: Donal Fitzgerald; Joint PRO: Redmond Walsh, Barry Fitzgerald; Cultural Officer: Mossy Walsh; Juvenile Liaison Officer: John Maher; Players Rep: John Paul Ivers. Committee: Martin O’Sullivan, Niall Cronin, Michael Kearney and Micheál Walsh. East Cork Board Delegates: Sean Walsh and Micheál Walsh.
Junior Hurling Selectors: Richie Lewis (Coach), Dave O’Brien and Michael Kearney.
Junior Football Selectors: To be confirmed.
We would like to take this opportunity to wish the players, coaches and selectors the best of luck in 2010.

Puc Fada:
A very successful and well-supported Puc Fada competition took place in Churchtown South on St Stephen’s Day when a total of 31 teams took to the road. Great credit must go to Pa Morrissey for organising this event, as he does every year, and also to John Paul Ivers for helping out. Thanks to Vincent Walsh of Velux Engineering for sponsoring the prizes.
The competition ended in a tie between the Churchtown South team consisting of Colin Crowley, Derek Crowley and Tadgh Crowley and the Shanagarry South combination of Mike Mannion, Barry Hartnett and Bob Murphy with the latter team coming out on top following a play-off. Well done to all who took part.

Membership:
Please note that as per a recent directive from Croke Park the membership year now runs from 1st April to 31st March. Membership fees for the coming year must be paid prior to the 31st March 2010 after which date they cannot be accepted.
We would like to wish all our members, supporters and sponsors a happy and successful New Year.

Report 6/02/07

Canon Bertie Troy
It was with great sadness that we learnt of the death of Canon Bertie Troy, retired Parish Priest of Midleton, last Sunday week. Canon Troy was appointed as Curate in Ballycotton and Shanagarry in September 1976 having been on the teaching staff of St. Colmans Fermoy for the previous 18 years. He spent 10 very busy years ministering to the people of the area and devoted his boundless energies and enthusiasm to improving all aspects of life in the locality. He wholeheartedly put into practice the ideal of using one’s talents to the benefit of the community.
His leadership qualities and innovative ideas for fundraising, which he seemed to be constantly engaged in for one organisation or another, are fondly recalled by those of us lucky enough to have been involved with him. Russell Rovers GAA was one of the many local organisations, which benefited from Canon Troy’s work in the parish. The field had just been purchased, he was deeply involved in the development of club facilities and the substantial fundraising required. He gave of so much of his time in coaching the youth of the area in hurling skills and was instrumental in establishing the present Juvenile club.
He was also involved in the setting up St. Colmans ABC, Shanagarry that went on to such great success. He introduced the young people to new sports such as Soapbox Racing. He developed the Community Centre in Ballycotton as well as the Squash Court and devoted much of his time to providing social outlets for people such as Films, Ceilis, Plays (often treading the boards himself in one act comedies!)Concerts and Bingo.
He led the major school fundraising drive in the mid eighties for Shanagarry and Ballycotton schools, which raised over £60000 in the space of two years and provided the local parish contribution for the development of both schools. At a time of high unemployment in the eighties he set up a number of employment schemes under FAS, which were of benefit to both the participants and to the community. Shanagarry Park, later named in his honour, being the prime example. Seeing a great need for more housing in the area he campaigned successfully for a local authority scheme in Ballycotton having secured some parish property for the development.
His interest in history and local folklore resulted in much historical research, which he continued after leaving the parish. He published two booklets on shipwrecks in the locality, which are much treasured and greatly encouraged anybody who had an interest in maritime history. For the cover of these booklets Canon Troy composed a reply to Piaras Mac Gearailt’s 18th century jibe at Ballycotton.

Baile Choitín na dtonn
Daoine misniúla ann
Bua na céille
Croí na féile
Agus fáilte is fiche romhat ann!

He had a great sense of humour and despite his hectic schedule he had time for a chat and a laugh with both old and young, gleaning much wisdom from the former and passing it on to the latter. He was a tremendous and kind teacher, as anyone who was taught by him in St. Colmans will testify, and brought out the best in his pupils through positive encouragement While in Ballycotton he composed a number of songs, one of which has become the local anthem. Entitled “Ballycotton by the Sea” it encapsulates the man and the love he had for the locality:

I have roamed the Scottish highlands
And our own fair Irish islands
Ancient sites and lovely scenes appeal to me
But none pleased me half so well
As the place in which I dwell
There’s nowhere else I’d rather be
Other people other races
Cherish more exotic places
But this haven is a paradise to me
Oh my heart would sorely grieve,
If I ever had to leave
My dear home in Ballycotton by the Sea.

I am proud to call you my land,
With your Cliffs and Lighthouse Island,
You’re a mecca for the artist truthfully
And I love the solemn knell of the grand majestic bell
In Our Lady’s lovely church Star of the sea
Your staunch and sheltered pier
Will soon reach its hundredth year
Your famed Lifeboat needs no accolade from me
May God’s blessing be in store
For each boat that leaves the shore
Of my home in Ballycotton by the sea