Cloyne GAA - Game
Reports HURLING 2004
Chapel Street Cloyne Co.Cork Ireland www.cloynegaa.com cloynegaainfo@eircom.net
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HURLING REPORTS 2004 |
KEARNEY
BROS. CASTLELYONS SPONSORED EAST CORK U21"B" HC FINAL
Cloyne's hopes for
silverware in this year's East Cork U21 hurling championship were shattered at
Ballymacoda last Sunday afternoon. A determined second-half performance by
Youghal powered them to victory in this competition. Cloyne first half
advantage was quickly eroded in the second half, as five unanswered points by
Youghal in the last quarter of this game saw off Cloyne's challenge.
Padraig O'Sullivan was first
on the board for Cloyne after four and a half minutes. Former Cork minor
Brendan Ring levelled matters two minutes later. A well-struck sideline cut by
Domhnall O'Sullivan sailed over the bar on eight minutes to hand the advantage
back to Cloyne. Another from a sixty-five metre free by Maurice McNamara in the
tenth, coupled with a beauty from Thomas Ryan soon after signalled Cloyne's
intent. James Lynch was playing his heart out at centre-back, supplying plenty
ball down to the inside forward line. Youghal did manage to peg a few back,
Brendan Ring, the danger man up front. Cloyne had the last score of the half on
twenty-eight minutes from Maurice McNamara, to leave it Cloyne 0:05,
Youghal 0:04 on the short whistle.
Youghal opened the second half proceedings with a fine point within the first minute. Brendan Ring added another on the seventh, before Padraig O'Sullivan continued Cloyne's account with a pointed free in the thirteenth. O'Sullivan added his third three minutes later, again from a free. Unfortunately, this was to be Cloyne's last score. Youghal upped the tempo from here on in, and five scores within the last quarter left Cloyne with a mountain to climb. Try as they did, the task at hand was just too great. Compliments to the team and management for their hard work and tireless commitment throughout the year. I'm sure these players will be back again contending for honours in the near future!
Team:Alan Reilly, Tommy O'Shea,
Maurice McNamara, Maurice Lynch, Ross McCarthy (Capt.), James Lynch, James
Northridge, Domhnall O'Sullivan, Thomas Ryan, Patrick Dineen, Jamie Costine,
Eamonn Dunne, Alan Roberts, Padraig O'Sullivan, and Kevin
Motherway,.
Subs:Anthony Quinlan and Philip Considine.
________________________________________________________________________
No Mistakes From The Red
& Black In Replay
Cloyne
2:14
Castlelyons 0:11
Lucky to leave
Rostellan with a draw last Sunday week, Cloyne's Under 21 hurlers made no
mistake at Dungourney last Sunday afternoon as they inflicted a comprehensive
defeat over Castlelyons in this semi-final. Forced to play without the
services of ace midfielder Mike Naughton for over half the game, this
Cloyne outfit showed wonderful skill and determination to rise above their
opponents. Though reduced in number, the players gave their all, worthy
winners at the end of this entertaining encounter.
Cloyne's first score came
courtesy of Naughton after three minutes, the first of a brace for him. He
had another on the board from a free at the end of the first quarter.
Castlelyons also had two in the bag at this stage, but were guilty of a
number of poor wides. Naughton made it three with a beautiful score from right
out at the centre of the field, and a lovely score on the run from Thomas Ryan
on the wing, made it double scores at the end of twenty minutes. Jamie Costine
and Eamonn Dunne were doing well at this stage, and their influence earned
Padraig O'Sullivan a free which he effortlessly sent over the bar.
O'Sullivan added a second
immediately afterwards, before Cloyne were dealt a critical blow. Mike Naughton
was ordered to the side-line after a melee broke out at the centre of the
field. However, rather than let this deflate the team, it urged them on even
more in their bid for victory. Castlelyons added a pointed free immediately
afterward but this was soon forgotten. A great ball by Jamie Costine across the
goal was met by Alan Roberts, sending a bullet to the back of the net.
Cloyne continued this good work in the second half. Fine play
by Kevin Motherway set Paidi O'Sullivan up for another good score.
Castlelyons were unlucky not to goal soon after, but fine defensive play by
Cloyne kept that threat at bay. They did manage a point on the rebound, but the
impetus was well and truly with Cloyne at this point. A wonderful
first-time flick by Domhnall O'Sullivan, form the
Castlelyons puck-out, to Jamie Costine registered Cloyne's next point.
Eamonn Dunne put his name on the board at the end of the third quarter to leave
the score Cloyne 1:11 to Castlelyons 0:07.
A free by Paidi O'Sullivan made it 1:12, before Costine added
another point, beautifully struck off the hurley after a thirty yard solo
run. Castleyons could only muster a point in return; Cloyne's defence
standing firm, spearheaded by Captain Ross McCarthy. The final straw for
Castlelyons came in the shape of an Eamonn Dunne goal seven minutes from time.
A fine cross by O'Sullivan, pulled on by Dunne, left the keeper helpless! By
now, it was all over bar the shouting! Castlelyons did pull back a couple of
scores, but it was too little far too late. Final score 2:14 to 0:11.
This was an excellent
performance by the team. On behalf of the club, I'd like to wish the
management and players all the best on Sunday against Youghal. It's a very
important day for these young players, and I'm confident that they will carry
the colours with pride, and hopefully return to Cloyne in triumph on Sunday
evening! We encourage our supporters to come out in large numbers, and cheer
the lads to success! Well done again.
Cloyne:Alan Reilly, Tommy O'Shea,
Maurice McNamara, Maurice Lynch, James Northridge, James Lynch, Ross McCarthy
(Capt.), Domhnall O'Sullivan, Mike Naughton, Thomas Ryan, Jamie Costine, Kevin
Motherway, Padraig O'Sullivan, Alan Roberts and Eamonn Dunne.
Sub Used:Anthony Quinlan
________________________________________________________________________
Cloyne
2:12
Castlelyons 1:15
(AET)
Cloyne were fortunate to
leave Rostellan last Sunday afternoon living to fight another day against
Castlelyons. After a pulsating sixty minutes hurling the sides were tied on
1:10 apiece. Extra time also failed to put daylight between the sides, so we
must do it all again at Dungourney on this coming Sunday at 2.30 p.m.
Castlelyons were first on the scoreboard after thirty seconds with a fine point
from Stephen Barrett. However it didn't take Cloyne too long to equal that!
Paudi O'Sullivan, aided by a strong wind, had his first of the afternoon on two
minutes - a fine shot off his left hand. Cloyne were applying pressure on the
Castlelyons goal, forcing some fine saves from the visiting custodian. Paudi added
a second score in the third minute and a fine goal on seven and a half minutes
set Cloyne well ahead of their counterparts.
Maurice McNamara was
instrumental in this goal, a fine clearance from his position on the full-back
line setting O'Sullivan up nicely for the score. A further point by Eamonn
Dunne after nine minutes, aided by Kevin Motherway left the score Cloyne 1:03
to a solitary score for Castlelyons. Castlelyons, however, were trying hard,
and were unlucky not to goal in the tenth minute - Maurice Lynch's
wonderful block saving the day for Cloyne. Castlelyons came fighting back for
the remainder of the half - five good points brought them to within two of
Cloyne on the short whistle. Eamonn Dunne and O'Sullivan also added to their
tallies in the same period, while Maurice McNamara was playing his heart out in
defence.
Castlelyons
were determined not to let this game trail away from them and indeed opened the
second half in resolute fashion.Two early points saw them draw level before the
end of the third quarter. Cloyne took a little longer to get into their stride,
and had to wait until the fourteenth minute to register their first of the half
- a point by Thomas Ryan. Paudi O'Sullivan added another a minute later
to again stretch the lead. James Lynch and captain Ross McCarthy were playing
very well at this stage on the half back line, Lynch coming to Cloyne's rescue
when a Castleyons 21 yard free looked a certainty for the back of the net.
Jamie Costine and Alan Roberts combined for Cloyne's next score
- a good long range point by Costine. With normal time running out,
Padraig O'Sullivan had his fifth of the afternoon over the bar. Another by
Kevin Motherway after thirty-three minutes looked to have sealed victory for
Cloyne, but Castlelyons were still fighting for this game. Three last gasp
points, the third after thirty-eight minutes, earned Castlelyons another chance
in extra time.
Two points by Castlelyons
in the opening period certainly handed them the advantage, but a well-taken 65'
free by Paudi O'Sullivan after eight minutes kept Cloyne in touch. Domhnall
O'Sullivan was working incredibly hard at mid-field trying to maximise his
team's opportunities. However it was Castleyons who looked to have the
advantage at this point. Two further points early in the second period of extra
time looked ominous for Cloyne.
All, however, was not lost,
Paudi struck for goal, a bullet to the back of the net. All square again!
Castlelyons hit the front on the fifteenth minute, and it fell again to Paudi
to pull this one out of the fire for Cloyne. A fine point on the whistle,
earning Cloyne another day in the sun! A wonderful afternoon's entertainment -
though definitely not one for the faint hearted! Best of luck to the lads next
Sunday - hopefully it will be our day!
Cloyne:
Alan Reilly, Tommy O'Shea,
Maurice McNamara, Maurice Lynch, Ross McCarthy (Capt.), James Lynch, Patrick
Dineen, Domhnall O'Sullivan, James Northridge, Thomas Ryan, Jamie Costine,
Kevin Motherway, Eamonn Dunne, Padraig O'Sullivan and Alan Roberts.
Subs
Used:
Anthony Quinlan and Philip
Considine.
________________________________________________________________________
BITTER DISAPPOINTMENT FOR CLOYNE AS THE DREAM COMES TO AN END
Cloyne
0:10
Na
Piarsaigh 0:17
It’s
over.Cloyne’s fantastic run in this year’s permanent tsb sponsored
county senior hurling championship is at an end.It’s very difficult to put into
words the devastation felt by the team, management and supporters at the final
whistle on Sunday afternoon. Coming so close to success, yet having to walk
away empty handed is a difficult task for anyone. In the run-up to Sunday’s final,
hopes were high and thoughts of defeat the furthest from everyon’s mind.
However, we now find ourselves struggling in that unfamiliar territory. 2004
has been a magical year for our senior hurlers, as they continued to make
steady progress in the championship.The pain of defeat is raw during these
days, but we the supporters want you to know that we thank you all most
sincerely for the hours of fantastic entertainment you provided us with during
the year.
And
so to the game - Cloyne were first on the attack, however it was Na Piarsaigh’s
influential corner-forward Stephen P.O’Sullivan who had the first score after
two minutes. Setanta O’hAilpin had his only score of the afternoon in the fifth
minute when he connected with a sideline cut by brother Seaan Og. Cloyne took a
little longer to settle, but opened their scoring through a Liam O’Driscoll
shot in the tenth minute. Once that all-important first score was on the board,
the nerves seemed to ease and the lads came more into the game. Mike Naughton and
Liam O’Driscoll were battling hard at midfield and Phil Cahill was also doing
well against Sean Og on the wing.
Aisake
O’hAilpin had Na Piarsaigh’s third from a placed ball to push them two points
ahead coming up to the end of the first quarter. Declan Motherway was however
doing well in the corner, marshalling the younger O’hAilpin, and Killian Cronin
was on duty in around the square. Stephen P.O’Sullivan had another for the
city-side a minute later. Cloyne badly needed a score if they were to stay in touch
with their opponents, and Iain Quinlan duly obliged following a foul on
Paidraig O’Sullivan. This was an important score for Cloyne and they went on
the attack again immediately afterwards. Liam O’Driscoll had his second from
midfield when he connected with a fine ball from Phil Cahill, despite the best
intentions of Setanta to thwart proceedings! Victor Cusack was also heading
goalward soon after. He was, unfortunately, stopped in his tracks by David
Gardiner and Sean Og. Things were looking good for Cloyne at this stage- the
attack were doing well and surging forward, whilst the ever solid defence were
standing firm.
Aisake
had another free for the Northsiders after captain Mark Prendergast was taken
down illegally. Donal Og Cusack’s alertness in goal prevented disaster for
Cloyne in the twenty-fifth minute. The resulting ball to Eoin O’Sullivan ended
up with Victor Cusack striking it over the bar.A well-taken free by David
Gardiner was also expertly caught by Cusack a minute later. The resultant free-out
was the launching pad for Cloyne’s next score, a wonderful point by Mike
Naughton on the open stand side of the pitch. Diarmuid O’Sullivan’s free from
over seventy yards out levelled matters on the thirtieth minute and when Phil
Cahill put one between them just before half-time Cloyne’s confidence was at an
all time high. Disappointingly, however, the second half would prove to be Na
Piarsaigh’s.
Three
Cloyne points in the second half of this game was simply not enough to wipe Na
Piarsaigh out of the equation. Iain Quinlan’s second point just after the
resumption was the result of fantastic hassling by the Cloyne forwards.Na
Piarsaigh however upped the ante soon after and began to tighten up in all
areas of the field. Setanta was still causing problems in attack, despite the
trojan work of the Cloyne defence. John and David Gardiner began to get
the upper hand in the exchanges on the Cloyne forty. Cloyne's Colm O'Sullivan
did sneak through on occasion, and was heading goalward nearing the end of the
third quarter. His effort was somehow saved inside and subsequently cleared to
safety. Quinlan’s third point kept Cloyne in the fray, and a fantastic score by
Mike Naughton on the covered stand side kept the dream alive. This alas was to
be Cloyne’s last of the day and indeed of championship 2004.
The
remaining nineteen minutes saw this Na Piarsaigh side carve out victory for
themselves. A battery of scores in the final ten minutes from Aisake O’hAilpin,
both Stephen R and P O’Sullivan and a sublime point from man of the match John
Gardiner sealed victory for the Farranree men. Even before the final whistle
sounded the crowds started to spill out of the Park, the result was
obvious.Dejected fans of the red and black. Cloyne could do no more.
A
heartbreaking result on a day when hopes were so high. However I’m confident
that Cloyne’s day is not too far away. A final thank you to the lads, Tomas,
Cathal, Dinny, Diarmaid your efforts
during the year have been second to none.The professionalism shown both on and
off the field is an example to all, and we encourage and support you all at
this time. To Na Piarsaigh, we congratulate you on your tremendous win and wish
you all the best for the Munster and All-Ireland championship. We also thank
you for your warm welcome at Farranree last Monday evening. It’s heart-warming
to see the comradeship between both teams after the hurleys have been put
aside.To you the supporters, on behalf of the club, thank you all for your
support during this "journey to the final". Here's to 2005!
Cloyne:
DonalOgCusack, Eoin O’Sullivan, Killian Cronin, Declan Motherway,
Domhnall O’Sullivan, Maurice Cahill, Diarmuid O’Sullivan (0:01), Liam
O’Driscoll (0:02), Mike Naughton (0:02), Phil Cahill (0:01), Colm O’Sullivan,
Iain Quinlan (0:03), Pa¡draig O’Sullivan, Conor Cusack and Victor Cusack
(0:01).
Blood
Sub:Brian Fleming
Sub
Used:Conor O’Lomasney
Subs:Sean
Motherway, Ian McCarthy, David Ring, Ross McCarthy, Aidan O’Brien, Maurice
McNamara, James Lynch and Graham Fleming.
________________________________________________________________________
HISTORY IN THE MAKING!
PERMANENT TSB COUNTY SENIOR HURLING CHAMPIONSHIP
SEMI-FINAL
Cloyne
1:14
Newtownshandrum
0:14
Sixty minutes, that s
all that lies between Cloyne and an historic first ever, county senior hurling
championship crown! The dream at the start of the year was to reach the final,
and hopefully go on to win that title for Cloyne. Now almost five and a half
months after the first championship game against Glen Rovers at Midleton, the
dream is still very much alive!
A fantastic crowd,
donned in the red and black, turned out at Pairc Ui Chaoimh on Sunday, to
support Cloyne in their quest for glory. And their loyal following was not
disappointed! The scenes on the pitch after the final whistle were, to say the
least, euphoric! This achievement, after the heartbreaking semi-final defeat to
Blackrock in 2003, will be treasured for years to come! The ghost has been put
to rest.
And so to the match
analysis. It wasn’t the classic we had expected, but the Cloyne faithful will
not be worried about that! With so much at stake, it was probable that both
teams would be nervous and make mistakes. However, it was an entertaining game,
which produced some fine scores and a number of tremendous individual displays.
However, one man stood head and shoulders above the rest, contributing a goal
and four points, crucial scores in such a tightly fought contest - Colm
Osullivan’s display was truly instrumental in securing Cloyne’s place in the
final.
The men from Newtown had
the first score on the board, a well struck free by Ben O’Connor from the
forty-five metre line. Although playing with the wind, Cloyne took a little
longer to settle, and had a number of shots wide of the target in this opening
period. Cloyne’s all-important opening score came in the fifth minute. Iain
Quinlan was doing well in positon and passed a good ball to Conor Cusack in the
corner, who immediately spotted Phil Cahill across the goal. The timely cross
allowed Cahill to pass to the waiting Colm O’Sullivan. His bullet-like shot
gave Paul Morrissey in goal no chance. Cloyne were out of the starting blocks!
Ben O’Connor had
another over for the All-Ireland champions immediately afterwards. Cloyne were
coping well at midfield where Mike Naughton and Liam O’Driscoll were quite
influential. Colm O’Sullivan soon added a point to the earlier goal when he
pulled on a fine shot from Iain Quinlan.
Ben O’Connor, operating at
centre forward had Newtown’s third of the day from placed balls on the ninth
minute. Cloyne made it a two point advantage when man of the moment Colm
O’Sullivan again struck the target, profiting from good work by Conor Cusack and
Padraig O’Sullivan. Cloyne were looking good, availing of any chances that came
their way.
Cloyne’s defensive play has
been solid all through this year’s campaign and was also living up to
expectation in this encounter. Eoin O’Sullivan was keeping a tight reign on
proceedings at corner back, and with Declan Motherway and Killian Cronin
unyielding at left-corner and full back respectively, Newtown’s job never
looked easy. Donal Mulcahy pulled another back, but a good score by Iain
Quinlan soon negated this after Eoin O’Sullivan was fouled.
Victor Cusack added a
lovely point from straight in front of goal to maintain the three point lead,
1:04 to 0:04. Quinlan registered his second on the twenty-fourth minute after
Conor Cusack, doing trojan work at corner-forward, was taken down illegally.
Newtown were applying pressure on goal, but Cloyne’s back six, along with Donal
Og in goal, were more than a match for them. John Paul King was forced to
settle for a point approaching half time, as his efforts goalward were
nullified by Killian Cronin and Domhnall O’Sullivan.
Newtown centre back Pat
Mulcahy brought them to within two of Cloyne, but Iain Quinlan was on hand to
send the ball sweetly over the bar to restore the three point advantage.
Quinlan’s chance was due to a foul on Naughton at the centre of the field.
Cloyne’s last score of the half was a beauty from Diarmuid O’Sullivan. He
intercepted Pat Mulcahy’s clearance on the halfback line, soloed forty yards
striking effortlessly between the posts. Ben O’Connor had another for the
champions to leave Colm O’Sullivan’s goal the deciding factor between the teams
on the short whistle.
Newtown had a lot of ground
to make up in the second half. Continuing without the services of an injured
Jerry O’Connor, they looked vulnerable in key positions. An over-reliance on
Ben O’Connor for scores would also have been seen as a worrying factor. That
said, they began the third quarter positively with John Paul King striking over
the bar within the first minute. Maurice Cahill was quickly on hand to open his
own account with a very well taken long range free from over seventy yards out.
Ben O’Connor pulled two
more back for Newtown, one wonderful score from the sideline. If given the
opportunity, the deadly accurate O’Connor looked on form to cause an upset!
Newtown had certainly upped the ante in this period, and determined play from
Philip Noonan, Alan T. O’Brien and Ian Kelleher at midfield brought out the
best in the Cloynemen. Maurice Cahill, Colm and Padraig O’Sullivan and Liam
O’Driscoll were tested in this period, but their resolve and strength kept the
enemy at bay! Colm restored Cloyne’s two point advantage after a Donal Og free
to brother Victor found its way to O’Sullivan’s hurl.
Substitute Cathal Naughton
tried to upset the Cloyne defence, however Killian Cronin and Quinlan came to
the rescue. Alan T. O’Brien did manage to take a point from this passage of
play, however Cloyne were going to have to be on their guard, as Newtown still
looked dangerous. A sideline cut by Naughton, pulled on by man of the match
Colm O’Sullivan, sailed over the bar. With fifteen minutes left, Jerry O’Connor
entered the fray for Newtown. O’Brien and John O’Connor had two more for the
champions to reduce the deficit. Victor Cusack added his first to the board, a
fine shot from the open stand side of the pitch, to restore Cloyne’s advantage.
Quinlan added another from
a placed ball thirty-five yards out to leave the score reading: Cloyne 1:12,
Newtownshandrum 0:13. Newtown were piling on the pressure with five minutes of
normal time remaining. Paidi O’Sullivan got a great score thirty-five yards out
on the stand side, just reward for his work rate all day. Stalwart Declan
Motherway was terribly unlucky to see his shot gathered by the keeper on the
line, however Cloyne’s assault on the Newtown goal was indicative of the great
determination of this team.
One last chance fell to
free-taker supreme Iain Quinlan, when Conor Cusack was fouled. A pressure shot
for Quinlan, however he converted without error, to leave four between them.
Even into injury time, Newtown did not surrender. The Cloyne defence was
crowded with men in red and black, anything to keep the Newtown threat from the
house! Ben O’Connor had one last ditch attempt for the North Cork side, his
shot however went over the bar. Almost immediately the whistle sounded.
It’s wonderful to see
Cloyne reach this year’s final. So much time, effort and hard work has been
invested by these players over the years and a place in the final is just reward
for their toil! To the management and team, we congratulate you on your success
thus far and wish you all the best for this final most important encounter - a
clash with Na Piarsigh on October 24th *. The celebrations are on
hold for the moment!!
*(This date may be
changed due to the International Rules Series, however Oct. 24th
still stands at time of submission.)
Cloyne:
Donal Og Cusack, Eoin
O’Sullivan, Killian Cronin, Declan Motherway, Domhnall O’Sullivan, Diarmuid
O’Sullivan (0:01), Maurice Cahill (0:01), Liam O’Driscoll, Mike Naughton, Phil
Cahill, Colm O’Sullivan (1:04), Iain Quinlan (0:05), Pa¡draig O’Sullivan
(0:01), Conor Cusack and Victor Cusack (0:02).
________________________________________________________________________
Another hurdle successfully cleared – Cloyne safely
through to the penultimate stage of this year’s permanent tsb county senior
hurling championship. Newtownshandrum await us on October 10th, a
clash already whetting the appetite of hurling Gaels countywide. However,
before we turn our thoughts to the future, let’s briefly reflect on last
weekend’s quarterfinal encounter with St. Finbarrs at Páirc úi Chaoimh.
Emotions were running high for the duration of this game, as both teams was
only too keenly aware of what was at stake. Tempers flared at various stages
during the encounter, one disappointing feature of the afternoon. An otherwise
entertaining contest became marred with stoppages, evidenced by the amount of
injury time played in each half.
St. Finbarrs started this game well, and were first on
the attack when full-forward Kevin Murray had an early chance to score. However
his shot was blocked by stalwart Killian Cronin, who went on to give a
fantastic display at full-back. Centreforward Michael Ryan did register their
first point within the opening minute. The Barrs continued to threaten and
Donal Óg and his defence had to be at their best to keep danger at bay. Kevin
Murray and Ivan O’Mahony added their names to the scoreboard within the first
six minutes to take an early lead of three points.
Páudi O’Sullivan had Cloyne’s first of the afternoon
after ten minutes when he pulled on a good cross from Mike Naughton. St.
Finbarrs were looking very strong at this stage, constantly bearing down on
goal. Cloyne’s defence were holding their own, Eoin O’Sullivan and Declan
Motherway doing particularly well in the early exchanges. Barrs midfielder
Brian O’Driscoll had another for the city side in the fourteenth minute, when
his free sailed over the bar restoring their three point advantage.
Cloyne had looked edgy up to this stage, but were soon
to settle down and establish a rhythm. Killian Cronin, Liam O’Driscoll and
Diarmuid O’Sullivan were doing very well in position delivering some good ball
to the inside forwards. A Phil Cahill cross to Conor Cusack on the seventeenth
minute ended up in the back of the net, however referee Diarmuid Kirwin had
blown the whistle for an indiscretion, awarding a penalty instead. One felt
that the advantage rule could have been played in this instance. Diarmuid
O’Sullivan stepped up to take the penalty, memories of last year’s penalty v
Blackrock came a calling, however Sullivan’s shot ended up at the back of the
net, despite being initially saved. Sides level at this point, 1:01 to 0:04.
Cloyne began to up the ante from here on in and a pointed
free by Iain Quinlan sailed between the posts to edge Cloyne ahead. Mike
Naughton followed this up with a great score from over 60 yards out. Barrs
corner forward Cathal McCarthy pulled one back from the corner on the thirty
minute mark. Another free from Quinlan 45 yards out was easily swept over the
bar to stretch Cloyne’s lead to two. A great catch by Domhnall O’Sullivan on
the halfback line found brother Colm who whipped it over the bar to put three
between them. Liam O’Driscoll and Diarmuid O’Sullivan were instrumental in
Quinlan’s next score, a third for the pacey wing-forward.
St. Finbarrs were still trying hard, testing Captain
Donal óg and his full-back line to the limit. However, the Cloynemen stood
firm. Colm O’Sullivan had a open goal chance just before halftime when he
connected with a good ball from Conor Cusack. However his shot sailed over the
bar. Another pointed free from Quinlan 70 yards out left the half time score
after 40 minutes of play: Cloyne 1:08, St. Finbarrs 0:05.
The Barrs began the third quarter in determined
fashion. Denis O’Regan registered one within the opening minute. Páidi
O’Sullivan and Conor Cusack were working well in the inside forward line,
making life difficult for their opposition. A good pass from Victor Cusack to
Quinlan saw Iain score a lovely point off his left-side on the fourth minute,
propelling Cloyne into a five point lead. Conor Cusack scored his first of the
evening on the fifth minute. Kevin Murray got one back for the city-side
immediately afterwards, but at this stage Cloyne still looked the stronger.
Intelligent play by Mike Naughton at mid-field picked
out Colm O’Sullivan on the half forward line whose pass to younger brother
Páidi set him up for another good score. A foul on Victor Cusack on the 21-yard
line gave Quinlan his sixth of the day. Cloyne were now getting on top at
mid-field, Liam O’Driscoll and Mike Naughton doing their jobs well. St.
Finbarrs were in dire need of a score at this stage; Brian O’Driscoll obliged
with a pointed free in the 18th minute, but a goal was needed at
this stage if they were to challenge Cloyne for victory. Another point followed
soon after to leave five between them.
The Barrs were beginning to rally at this stage, but
sterling defensive work by Maurice Cahill on the half back line was deterrent
enough. A free by Ronan Curran in the closing stages looked set to upset
Cloyne’s plans, had it not been for Donal óg’s alertness and quick deflection
on the line. Danger averted for the moment! Páidi O’Sullivan pointed from the
clearance to restore Cloyne’s confidence, and was also involved in Conor
Cusack’s second point a minute later. With time running out, Ronan Curran had
one last chance on target, but it was simply too little too late.
Congratulations to the management and team on a job
well done! We now focus on the semi-final meeting with 2004 All-Ireland club
champions Newtownshandrum.
Team: Donal óg Cusack (Capt.),
Declan Motherway, Killian Cronin, Eoin O’Sullivan, Diarmuid O’Sullivan (1:00),
Domhnall O’Sullivan, Liam O’Driscoll, Mike Naughton (0:01), Phil Cahill, Colm
O’Sullivan (0:02), Iain Quinlan (0:06), Pádraig O’Sullivan (0:03), Conor Cusack
(0:02) and Victor Cusack.
________________________________________________________________________
CONFIDENT DISPLAY EARNS DESERVED TITLE FOR CLOYNEMEN
Cloyne 3:14 Carrigtwohill 2:13
It was indeed a
wonderful day for Cloyne hurling last Saturday afternoon (Sept 18th)
at Jamesy Kelleher park, Dungourney when Junior “B” captain Vincent Cusack
lifted the Eamonn Fleming Memorial trophy signalling the beginning of Cloyne’s
reign as East Cork Junior “B” champions for 2004!
Pitted
against a fancied Carrigtwohill side, Cloyne did not allow the underdogs tag to
affect them negatively. On the contrary, the team entered this game with great
enthusiasm and determination. Following wonderful victories against Erins Own
and Sarsfieds in the earlier stages of the championship, the players had grown
in confidence and had begun to believe that championship 2004 could really be
theirs. This was evident in their comprehensive defeats of Aghada and Midleton
in the quarter and semi finals respectively. The scene was nicely set for the
final meeting with Carrigtwohill.
The foundations for
this victory were laid in the opening half. Cloyne forged strongly ahead from
the throw-in, amassing a 1:10 to 0:04 lead at halftime. Cloyne’s solid defence
were well on top in the opening period; James Lynch and brothers Brian and
Graham Fleming outstanding on the halfback line. The opening goal came courtesy
of wing-forward Kevin O’Lomasney and fine points from Johnny Cotter, James
Northridge, Ferghal O’Brien and Vincent Cusack left a stunned Carrigtwohill
side with lots of work to do at half-time. It was be naive to think that the
work was done at this stage, as all Cloyne followers expected a Carrig
resurgence on the resumption.
The expected,
inevitable fight back duly arrived and an opening quarter dominated by the
Carrigtwohill men saw them earnestly peg back the Cloyne advantage. Cloyne’s
fullback trio of John Aherne, Brian Lawton and Tomás Cahill were under severe
pressure from the rejuvenated Carrigtwohill attack, however managed well under
the circumstances. Despite this, it took a second goal from Kevin O’Lomasney
and another blast on target from Kevin Lawton to finally put this encounter
beyond the Carrigtwohill men. Additional scores from substitute Jamie Costine,
Aidan O’Brien, goalkeeper Maurice McNamara and Cotter confirmed Cloyne’s dominance
and sealed victory by four points.
This was a magnificent team performance, each player cleverly outwitting
their opponent on a day when fast skilful hurling was the real winner. That
said, special mention must go to Brian Fleming, James Lynch, Brian Lawton and
Johnny Cotter. Their performances were instrumental in securing victory for the
red and black!
In a highly entertaining game to view, Cloyne’s superiority was due in
no small way to the high fitness levels exhibited by all. Credit must go to the
management team of Peter Hegarty, Dermot O’Shea and Mick Lewis. Throughout this
year’s campaign, their careful planning and tedious preparations have seen them
win through! Congratulations to the entire panel of players. You have paved the
way for future success..
Team: Maurice McNamara (0:02), Tomás Cahill, John Aherne,
Brian Lawton, James Lynch, Brian Fleming, Graham Fleming, Johnny Cotter (0:03),
James Northridge (0:01), Vincent Cusack (Capt.) (0:02), Aidan O’Brien (0:02),
Tadhg O’Sullivan, Fearghal O’Brien (0:02), Kevin Lawton (1:00) and Kevin
O’Lomasney (2:01).
Sub Used: Jamie Costine (0:01)
St.
Colmans 2:09
Erins
Own 2:17
A spirited display by St. Colman's at Lisgoold last Monday evening
- however it was never going to be enough to stem the Erins Own tide! In a
thoroughly entertaining encounter, this year's East Cork Minor "A"
hurling championship title goes to the Glounthaune side, despite the valiant
efforts of this Cloyne/Russell Rovers amalgamated outfit. Significantly, Erins
Own had the upper hand in this game from the throw in. Full-forward
Eoin Murphy, one of the stars of the evening, registered their first point
within the opening minute. Cloyne's Padraig O'Sullivan levelled matters in the
fifth, before Erins Own's Ronan Coakley had another over in the sixth.
St.
Colmans were doing well at this stage, full-back and captain Eoin Ivers
spear-heading his side's attacks from defence. Padraig O'Sullivan and Coakley
again swapped points soon after. A well executed clearance out of defence by
St.John Walsh set up St. Colman's next score. His delivery was expertly caught
by wing-back Ian Smiddy who picked out Maurice Lynch. A quick ball from Lynch
in to Alan Roberts saw them notch up point number three of the evening. From
here on in Erins Own took this game by the scruff of the neck. A fine goal from
Michael Murphy in the fullforward line saw them edge out 1:04 to 0:03 ahead a
few minutes later, Eoin Murphy again instrumental in this score. He, along
with his namesake Michael, added two more point in the seventeenth and
eighteenth minutes respectively to leave six between them.
Two more followed from
Erins Own before St. Colman's Thomas Ryan struck over a beauty from the centre
of the field. Tom O'Shea was doing good work at corner back at this point.
However, Erins Own were back with a vengeance - one each from Michael, Eoin and
Killian Murphy to again stretch their advantage. St. Colmans needed a goal, and
indeed it came, courtesy of mid-fielder Ryan. His rasping shot on the run
thirty yards out from goal, undoubtedly the score of the game. Alan Bowen, the
Erins Own custodian was left helpless in goal. St. Colmans had a chance to add
another just before half time, however Padraig O'Sullivan's shot from a placed
ball went narrowly wide. Score on the short whistle - Erins Own 1:11, St.
Colmans 1:04.
Erins Own signalled intent
early in the second half with two points from Stephen Ahern and Killian Murphy
within two minutes. Padraig O'Sullivan got St. Colmans off the mark in the
third minute with a point from a placed ball after he himself was fouled. Jamie
Costine was clearing some fine ball on the halfback line at this stage and was
duly rewarded with a pointed free in the fifth minute to leave the score 1:13
to 1:06. Erins Own were quick to add another point to stretch their lead even
further. Hope was restored in the St. Colman's camp when a Thomas Ryan free
ended up at the back of the net to close the gap to five points. A well-taken
Maurice Lynch score made it 1:14 to 2:07 and with Ian Smiddy now coming even
more into the game at wingback a St. Colman's revival looked on the cards.
Sadly, it was not to be.On their next attack, Erins Own also found the back of
the net to restore their lead of seven points. Padraig O'Sullivan pulled one
back, but this did little to limit the brace of Erins Own scores which were to
follow. A Jamie Costine free in the dying seconds finished St. Colman's run in
this year's championship - Erins Own running out clear winners by eight points.
A disappointing night for the young men of St. Colmans, who unfortunately
couldn't match their counterparts for the entire sixty minutes. That said, well
done to all on reaching this year's East Cork final, a fine achievement in
itself.
Panel:
Alan Reilly, Tom O'Shea,
Eoin Ivers (Capt.), St.John Walsh, Rory O'Riordan, Jamie Costine, Ian Smiddy,
Thomas Ryan, Patrick Dineen, James O'Sullivan, Ronan Maguire, Antoin Walsh,
Kenneth O'Donovan, Padraig O'Sullivan, Maurice Lynch, Philip Considine, Alan
Roberts, Anthony Quinlan, Vincent Walsh, David Higgins, Declan O'Connell and
Colm Hennessy.
Selectors:
Neil Reilly, Kieran O'Shea
(Cloyne), Mossie Walsh and Dick Fitzgerald (Russell Rovers).
________________________________________________________________________
SENIOR HURLING LEAGUE
Cloyne
2:09
Killeagh 1:14
Killeagh overcame the
Cloyne challenge on home territory last Thursday evening in this Senior Hurling
League encounter. Both teams were obviously playing without their Cork
panellists in this game, which ,overall, turned out to be a fairly dreary
event. Killeagh were first on the scoreboard with a well-taken Brendan Walsh
score. Cloyne's account was opened by Phil Cahill in the third minute when he
connected with a good pass from Conor Cusack. Cloyne's Colm O'Sullivan and
Killeagh's Brendan "Bugsy" Barry exchanged scores to make it two
apiece, before two fine points from Pádraig O'Sullivan and Conor Cusack put
Cloyne two to the good. Walsh and wing-forward Conor O'Lomasney added to their
respective team's score before Killeagh's Wil Sexton powered through the Cloyne
defence beating 'keeper Séan Motherway on the line. Motherway did well for
Cloyne soon after, bravely saving another Killeagh goal chance. Brendan Walsh
had another over the bar from a 65' shortly before half time, however Phil
Cahill did well and scored a good point to bring the deficit back to one. Conor
Cusack was unlucky not to goal for Cloyne just on the short whistle, however
his shot just went barely wide of the post. Score at half time - Cloyne 0:06,
Killeagh 1:04.
Killeagh opened the second
half brightly, and had two more over the bar before Cloyne's first score was
registered. Larry Collins continued the Killeagh surge putting three between
the teams. Killeagh's player/manager Mark Landers had his first of the evening
in the tenth minute, before corner-forward, young Pádraig O'Sullivan stamped
his authority on this game, firing a shot to the back of the Killeagh net. Conor
Cusack was again instrumental in this score, passing to O'Sullivan at the edge
of the square. However Killeagh fought back strongly - Walsh and Barry
restoring the three point advantage. Mike Naughton got one back for Cloyne, but
it was soon negated by two from Walsh who was in flying form. Landers added two
more and it looked to be all over for the Cloynemen. Pádraig O'Sullivan added
to his total from a placed ball, leaving Cloyne still trailing by five. David
Ring got a consolation goal in the dying minutes, but it was all over as a
contest at this stage - Killeagh running out winners by two points.
Team:
Sean Motherway, Declan
Motherway, Killian Cronin, Eoin O'Sullivan, Liam O'Driscoll, Maurice Cahill,
Domhnall O'Sullivan, Mike Naughton, Aidan O'Brien, Phil Cahill, Colm
O'Sullivan, Conor O'Lomasney, Pádraig O'Sullivan, Conor Cusack and David Ring.
________________________________________________________________________
JUNIOR "B"
HURLING CHAMPIONSHIP
Cloyne
2:10
Erins Own 0:14
There
wasn't much between them at the end, but it's Cloyne who live to fight another
day and progress further in this year's East Cork Junior "B" Hurling
championship. Cloyne got an ideal start when Victor Cusack goaled in the
opening minute. A point by Aidan O'Brien shortly afterwards signalled that this
team were well up for the challenge. Erins Own replied with three good points,
however Cloyne's Michael McCarthy and Victor Cusack were on hand to help
maintain Cloyne's four point advantage. Aidan O'Brien was playing very well at
centre-forward and Victor Cusack was also trying hard in the full-forward line.
The Cloyne backline were under constant pressure from the Erins Own attack -
Tomás Cahill and John Aherne doing well to keep them at bay. Tadhg O'Sullivan
who was introduced for the injured Michael McCarthy, was also very involved in
the attack, and causing some problems for the Erins Own defence. Score on the
short whistle Cloyne 1:05, Erins Own 0:07.
Cloyne began the second
half in positive fashion, Kevin Lawton making things difficult for the Erins
Own full-back. Aidan O'Brien converted a 65' in the opening minutes. Goalkeeper
Maurice McNamara proved his worth soon after, confidently clearing out the
field. Victor Cusack scored his second goal of the evening in the tenth minute
from the penalty spot after an illegal challenge on Aidan O'Brien. Cloyne were
well in control at this stage, hurling well and leading their rivals by
five points. However the anticipated Erins Own fight back began to spring into
action at this point, Two good points brought them back to within a goal. That
said, Cloyne's Vincent and Victor Cusack and Aidan O'Brien were on hand to
further stretch the Cloyne advantage. In the last tension filled five minutes
Erins Own managed to claw back five points to within one solitary score of the
Cloynemen. It was left to Aidan O'Brien to add the all-important insurance
point from a free in the dying seconds to guarantee victory for Cloyne. An
all-round good, confident Cloyne performance. Well done to the team and
management. Looking forward to the second round...
Team:
Maurice McNamara, Thomas
Cahill, John Aherne, James Northridge, Killian Cronin, Brian Fleming, Graham
Fleming, Vincent Cusack, Shane Aherne, Michael McCarthy, Aidan O'Brien, Kevin
O'Lomasney, Victor Cusack, Kevin Lawton and Fergal O'Brien.
Subs Used:
Tadhg O'Sullivan, James
Lynch, Brian Lawton and Johnny Cotter.
________________________________________________________________________
PERMANENT TSB CORK COUNTY SENIOR HURLING CHAMPIONSHIP
Cloyne
1:13
Glen Rovers
1:12
Cloyne’s
passage to the third round of this year’s permanent tsb county senior hurling championship
has been secured after victory at Clonmult Park last Sunday afternoon. A win
was what was required, and the job was successfully completed. However, from a
spectators’s point of view this game failed to deliver. One waited for the game
to ignite, and barring a short spell in the second half, it was a relatively
tame affair. That said, Cloyne are more than satisfied with the result. Glen
Rovers have a lot of work to do if they are to progress further in this year’s
competition. It was, in fact, a sombre day for the city teams, as Blackrock
followed Glen Rovers down loser’s lane shortly afterwards, following their
clash with Killeagh. A wonderful day indeed for hurling in East Cork!
An
injury to Cloyne’s Iain Quinlan in the opening minute handed Cloyne their first
scoring opportunity. However Maurice Cahill’s effort just tailed to the left of
the posts. Early pressure by the Cloyne men resulted in Iain Quinlan
registering their first score after four minutes from a free after the Glen
were judged to have over-carried the ball. Continued pressure by Cloyne in the
opening period presented a number of scoring opportunities. These valuable
opportunities were however squandered, which could have proved very costly in
the later stages. John Anderson for the Glen evened the score in the sixth
minute from a placed ball. This game was yet to open up, one felt that both
teams certainly had a lot more to offer. Maurice Cahill saw a second effort
from the centre of the field trail wide of goal, frustrating for Cloyne who
were well in control at this point. Glen Rovers continued to push forwards
through the Cloyne defence, and it would only be a matter of time before they
found the space they required.
Conor
Cusack handed Cloyne the lead in the tenth minute, while the Glen’s wides
continued to mount up. Cloyne were fortunate to maintain their advantage soon
after; custodian Donal Og Cusack pulling off a great save to deny the city
side. County team-mate Diarmuid O’Sullivan was on hand to clear out to safety.
He found brother Colm on the half forward line, but it was only to result in
another bad wide for Cloyne. Mike Naughton was trying very hard on the
wing, and causing a disturbance when the ball came his way. Cloyne had a good
goal chance saved when a Phil Cahill cross to Conor Cusack, trailed narrowly
wide of the post. However Cusack looked dangerous at the edge of the square,
and was posing a serious threat to the Glen defence.
Fifteen
year old Padraig O’Sullivan, making his debut in the senior championship was
instrumental in Cusack’s first score, a fine point neatly struck over the bar.
A puck-out from Donal Og shortly after found Mike Naughton, totally unmarked at
midfield who made no mistake scoring a great point for Cloyne. Naughton was
showing the Glen that he could and would do damage if given space. Intelligent
work by Cusack delivering the puck out inch perfect to Naughton. Cloyne had all
the play at this point, but were failing to profit on the scoreboard. A goal
for the city boys, totally against the run of play meant this game was back in
the melting pot. Poor marking in the Cloyne defence allowing the enemy back
into the fray.
Another
free for Cloyne in the twentieth minute, stretched the lead for Cloyne; Mike Naughton
having assumed the free-taking duties from the obviously injured Iain Quinlan.
Conor O’Lomasney had his first of the evening in the twenty-fourth minute, a
beauty off the hurley from the twenty-one yard line. Glen Rovers were back in
contention with three quick points, posing a very real threat to Cloyne past
the halfway line. A fine goal from Conor Cusack nearing the end of the first
half put Cloyne back in front. This was badly needed, at a time when the Glen
appeared to have taken control. Phil Cahill and O’Lomasney again involved in
this score. Cloyne held the advantage on the short whistle, 1:06 to 1:05.
Nothing in it, with all to play for in the second half.
The
second half of this game opened brightly, and at last it looked like the game
was going to open up. Cloyne had a good goal chance right on the resumption,
but good defending by the city-side saw the ball cleared to safety. The Glen
did register a few good points early on in the third quarter, but it was still
anybody’s game at this point. Donal Og was kept very busy on the goal line, as
the cityside continued to drive forward searching for another goal. A foul on
brother Conor at the other end of the pitch allowed Mike Naughton slot another
one over the bar from thirty yards out. He repeated it minutes later after
another foul on Cusack. Cloyne had an all-important two-point advantage nearing
the end of the third quarter. The upright denied Naughton a third point in a
row soon after, but continuous pressure on the Glen goal was encouraging.
Glen
Rovers raced back into contention with two points on the board in as many
minutes. This play was now flowing well, a welcome relief from the stop-start
pattern of the first thirty minutes. Anderson continued to torment, despite
Cloyne’s best efforts. Watertight marking by the city defence continued to
prevent Cloyne forging further ahead. Padraig O’Sullivan brought out the best
in Glen goalkeeper Ellis, when his shot was deflected over the bar for a point.
A let off for the city team, as that ball had goal written all over it! Colm
O’Sullivan had the Cloyne supporters on their feet minutes later when his fine
shot levelled matters again.
With
only four minutes remaining, possession was vital. Conor O’Lomasney, doing very
well on the wing, had his third of the day stretching Cloyne’s lead. It was nip
and tuck for the remainder, Cloyne just holding out by a solitary point. A
confidence building exercise, the team will be happy with their victory, but
will also know that a lot of work remains to be done.Congratulations to the
lads.We now look forward to the draw for round three.
Cloyne:
Donal
Og Cusack, Eoin O’Sullivan, Sean Motherway, Declan Motherway, Liam O’Driscoll,
Diarmuid O’Sullivan, Maurice Cahill, Phil Cahill (0:01), Colm O’Sullivan
(0:01), Conor O’Lomasney (0:03), Iain Quinlan (0:01), Mike Naughton (0:05),
Padraig O’Sullivan (0:01), Conor Cusack (1:01) and David Ring.
Subs
Used:
Cloyne 0:08 Bride Rovers 2:06
The promising start against Sars was put firmly to the
back of the mind after this encounter. Cloyne failed to exit the starter’s
blocks at Carrigtwohill last Wednesday evening, in their first and last
Abernethy 2004 championship match. This game was a disappointment from
beginning to end. Few players managed to perform to their potential. Maurice
Cahill did well at centre back, and was Cloyne’s top scorer on the night. All
credit to Bride Rovers; they were hungry for victory and totally outplayed
their counterparts. With senior league points also on offer, it was indeed a
profitable night for the ‘Rovers.
Cloyne:
Donal óg Cusack, Brian Fleming,
Killian Cronin, John Aherne, Liam O’Driscoll, Maurice Cahill, Donal O’Sullivan,
Phil Cahill, Iain Quinlan. Ian McCarthy, Mike Naughton, Conor O’Lomasney, James
Lynch, Colm O’Sullivan and Vincent Cusack.
Subs Used:
Eoin
O’Sullivan, Declan Motherway and Graham Fleming
________________________________________________________________________
SENIOR HURLING LEAGUE FINAL 2003
Cloyne
1:08
Blackrock
2:16
This was to be
Cloyne's chance to level matters after a defeat at the hands of Blackrock in
the championship semi-final last October. However, it's heartbreak for Cloyne
for the second time, as Blackrock add the title of "County Senior Hurling
League Champions 2003" to their roll of honour. In fairness to both teams,
the conditions at Páirc úi Chaoimh last Sunday did nothing to favour good
hurling. Gale force conditions combined with an unsuitable playing surface is
simply not good enough for teams contesting a senior county final. The county
board need to re-examine their fixture lists, and be fair to all players when
scheduling games.
This encounter was
never going to be exhibition hurling, due to the weather and pitch conditions,
but both teams were eager to play open hurling and give it their all. Playing
with the gale in the first half, Cloyne needed to hold a good advantage at half
time if they were to pose a threat to the city side. Colm O'Sullivan opened
Cloyne's account after three minutes from way out the field. Blackrock were challenging
the Cloyne defence, but strong play from Maurice Cahill and Liam O'Driscoll
seemed enough to keep them at bay at this early stage. Blackrock's Fergal
Ryan was also doing well on his own half-back line, making things difficult for
Cloyne's half-forward line. Blackrock levelled matters soon after with a
pointed free following a Diarmuid O'Sullivan foul. Brother Eoin was at this
point doing well in his corner-back position. Liam O'Driscoll nearly had his
name on the scoreboard in the seventh minute with his long range effort, only
to see it fall securely into the hands of the Blackrock custodian. The crowd
were becoming increasingly frustrated by the rising number of wides from each
side, a disappointing factor of this game. Blackrock added another point in the
twelfth minute despite the best efforts of Killian Cronin, and a further, five
minutes later from a free on the 45'. The Cloyne defence were under pressure,
but coping well. Good clearances by Eoin O'Sullivan and captain Donal óg Cusack
served to prevent the potential Blackrock onslaught. However, in the
conditions, it was frustrating to see players from both teams slipping and
sliding around the pitch as they endeavoured to play the game. Pleasant
viewing, it was not!
A David Ring
effort which was nursed over the end-line by the Blackrock defence was duly
converted by Maurice Cahill in the resulting 65'. A Mike Naughton ball to Conor
Cusack drifted narrowly wide of the target in the twentieth minute, and it was
more of the same soon after from Maurice Cahill, when two more scoring
opportunities were directed left of the post. Diarmuid O'Sullivan put his name
on the board with a good pointed free in the twenty-third minute from a
placed ball to level matters at three points apiece. The Cloyne machine sprung
into action for the remainder of the first half. Liam O'Driscoll found Victor
Cusack from the puck-out, who passed to brother Conor directly in front of goal
to put Cloyne ahead by a point. It was almost action replay a minute later,
this time Driscoll pucking directly to Conor Cusack who made no mistake.
Blackrock however were soon back in contention with two additional points. A
foul on Victor Cusack allowed Iain Quinlan to level matters at six points each
in the final minute of the half. Mike Naughton had an opportunity to put Cloyne
ahead in the final minute from a sideline cut. He was however narrowly denied,
as he saw his effort tantalisingly strike the outside of the post. Six points
each on the short-whistle.
Blackrock
opened the brighter at the start of the second half, registering a point within
the opening minute. Iain Quinlan got one back for Cloyne immediately afterwards
from a foul on Conor Cusack. A beautiful first time pull by Driscoll set Cusack
up for goal. Blackrock however chose to bring him down, rather than allow the
game to continue. The city side seemed to be able to get their scores a little
easier. Aidan O'Brien kept Cloyne in touch with a good point, which came from a
good pass from Mike Naughton at mid-field. Blackrock began to completely take
over at this stage, and five unanswered points in an eight minute period
signalled their intentions in a very clear manner. The concession of a
goal with six minutes remaining put this game well out of Cloyne's reach. A
conciliation goal by Victor Cusack with three minutes remaining did little to
change this game, and when Blackrock scored their second goal of the quarter,
it was time to put this game far out of the memory.
Celebration
for the Rockies, back to basics for Cloyne. Sunday’s display showed that this
team has a lot of work to do before they reach the standard that we, and they
themselves, expect.
Cloyne:
Donal
óg Cusack, Declan Motherway, Killian Cronin, Eoin O'Sullivan, Liam O'Driscoll,
Maurice Cahill (0:01), Diarmuid O'Sullivan (0:01), Ian McCarthy, Mike Naughton,
Aidan O'Brien (0:01), Colm O'Sullivan (0:01), Iain Quinlan (0:02), Victor
Cusack (1:00), Conor Cusack (0:02) and David Ring.
Subs Used:
Brian
Fleming, Donal O'Sullivan and Conor O'Lomasney.