In the glare of the evening sun, our U14s gave us a reason to drop tools and head to the Athletic Grounds for their Championship Final. After an initial exchange of scores, the Shane O'Neills team found it easier to create scoring chances, although a number of wides from both teams had the scoreline at 0.4 to 0.1 to Shanes after 20 minutes. On half-time, it was 0.8 to 0.3, with our lads hanging in against strong, clinical opposition.
The second half started promising, with the sides scoring one a piece. Senan McCooey pulled off a brilliant save, only to find the pressure on again shortly after when a free dropped short & Shanes struck the back of the net. The scoreboard read 1.11 to 0.4, and the Newtown Emmets lads tried to dig deep to create scores. However, Shanes dominated this half, with our lads struggling to build momentum. Shanes managed another goal and finished off their Championship victory with a number of points. Final score, 2.16 to 0.5.
There was disappointment for the lads, but seeing their family and friends join them in Swiftys for their refreshments certainly boosted the spirits. One match doesn't define this team, who have put in brilliant performances so far this year. It is a fantastic achievement to reach the final, to play in Armagh GAA HQ and to represent their clubs with a great team spirit. We were proud to don our club colours and cheer you on, Eiméid Baile Úr Abú! No better way to bounce back than against Loughgilly Gaels this week, and boost their League position. Keep 'er lit lads 💪.
Elsewhere, our U6s had their first GoGames of the year against O'Hanlons. Both them & our U8s enjoyed competitive but fun games, and are looking forward to the next outing to put their skills into practice.
The U10 girls had a great run-out at the Granemore Hub, playing Granemore White & Green teams and two from Derrynoose. They won 3 out of their 4 matches, and displayed super hand-passing, defensive blocks and scored goals galore. Well done everyone 👏 and thanks to Granemore for organising it and providing the snacks afterwards.
Our Seniors secured another two points in their local derby against Dorsey. Goals from Paddy McVerry (×2), Pearse Woods and Emmett O'Malley saw the men run out comfortable winners 4-14 to 0-10. They are joint with Silverbridge IIs on 14 points - and will be pushing for a further win when they host Madden IIs this Friday.
There was an entertaining game on Saturday afternoon, when our U12 lads travelled to Shane O'Neills for their GoGames. They played really well and were glad of a pitch breeze on what was a very humid day. Nothing a dip in Camlough lake and Timoneys ice-cream didn't cure!
Good luck to all our teams this week, and to all those Croker bound on Sunday. Make sure to bring the Orange & White 🟠 ⚪️ !!
