St Vincent's goals see off Portlaoise challenge

Portlaoise 0-10 St Vincent’s 3-11

A second half blitzing secured victory for St Vincent’s against a beleaguered Portlaoise side in O’Moore Park earlier today. Two second half goals from Shane Carthy, and a first half Tomas Quinn three pointer, ensured Vincent’s would still be in contention for retaining their Leinster Senior Football Championship title after this quarter final encounter.

The current All Ireland Club champions started the brighter of the two teams with two points within the opening two minutes. Potent centre forward Diarmuid Connolly was involved in both scores. Connolly latched on to an early free from Tomas Quinn before a quick one two set the evergreen corner forward through on goal to score the first point of the match. The Vinnie’s number 11 then embarked on a mazy run through the Portlaoise rearguard before nonchalantly bisecting the posts.

Portlaoise could not handle the pace at which the Dublin outfit were controlling the game. With less than five minutes played, and Portlaoise still to register any meaningful attack, a Michael Savage kick out was fielded by Shane Carthy in the midfield area for Vincent’s. A lofted pass aimed at Ciaran Dorney was palmed down to Connolly who hand passed the ball across to Tomas Quinn. The Vincent’s full forward managed to get the ball across the goal line despite being completed annihilated in the process. Quinn gingerly rose to his feet safe in the knowledge his bravery had given his team an early 1-02 to 0-00 lead.

Portlaoise’s first score of the game came from the boot of Paul Cahillane after a mix up in the Vincent’s full back line. St Vincent’s Gavin Burke and Tomas Quinn then had goal chances of their own which they did not take. Subsequently, Portlaoise grew into the game. Cahillane got his second score of the game after he gained possession from a fortuitous bounce off a Brendan Egan block.

Both teams exchanged points as the first half drew to a close. Zach Touhy pointed before his effort was cancelled out by Shane Carthy. Portlaoise scored the last two points of the half as Craig Rogers and Brian McCormack’s respective points clawed Portlaoise to within a point of their opponents at the half time break, 0-06 to 1-04.

St Vincent's Shane Carthy (L) and Daithi Murphy (R) compete for possession with their Portlaoise opponents

In similar fashion to the opening of the first half, St Vincent’s stormed out of the blocks. After an uncharacteristic wide from Tomas Quinn, the Marino men were intent on building an unassailable lead. As the crowd were still taking their seats after the interval at O’Moore Park, Shane Carthy drilled the ball past Micky Nolan in the Portlaoise goal. St Vincent’s were passing the ball with ease and after some good build up play from Daithi Murphy and Gavin Burke, Carthy made full advantage of his teams dominance.

A pointed Tomas Quinn free followed before Carthy kicked the ball over the black spot with 37 minutes played. After a physical opening 30 minutes, Carthy was continuously improving in what was an outstanding performance from the lively half forward. Portlaoise began to deploy substitutes in the form of Adrian Kelly and Eoghan Feane in an attempt to quell the Vincent’s dominance. Ultimately, their efforts would be in vain.

After a pointed free from Craig Rogers on the 42^nd minute mark and another substitution from Portlaoise, this time Malachy McNulty entering the field for Eoghan Whelan, St Vincent’s hammered home the final nail in the Portlaoise coffin. A quickly taken free from Diarmuid Connolly caused panic in the Portlaoise full back line as ‘keeper Micky Nolan raced to punch clear the dangerously aimed free. Somehow, the ball dropped to Shane Carthy who stroked the ball into an empty net. Carthy will not score an easier goal in his career as the metropolitans had a 0-07 to 3-06 lead with 17 minutes still to play.

St Vincent's full forward Ciaran Dorney celebrates

St Vincent’s are often lauded for the flamboyance of their attack and goal scoring prowess. However, their resilient defending was just as easy on the eye on this occasion. They were intent on working the ball up the field through intricate passing moves. Just like the Dublin SFC final, their full back line was in charge for the entire 60 minutes. The experience of captain Ger Brennan rallied the troops but it was the performance of young Jarlath Curley marking the cumbersome Zach Touhy out of the game that really stood out in a backline which gave very little away.

As the match entered the final ten minutes, Portlaoise legs grew heavier. They could not keep up with the pace of their opponents with Vincent’s superior stamina shining through. With cynical challenging aplenty, Kieran Lillis was shown a black card for dragging Diarmuid Connolly down by the neck. Connolly took responsibility of the resulting free and confidently scored to maintain his team’s nine point lead.

The game petered out as a contest in the last five minutes of play. Both teams had made numerous changes and it was the industrious Cormac Diamond who made a case for a starting berth in the semi final after two deserving late scores. The scoreboard read 0-10 to 3-11 in favour of St Vincent’s after 60 minutes of intense football played at an unstoppable pace throughout.

Portlaoise, the most decorated club in the history of the Leinster SFC, bow out after a regimented St Vincent’s display. The match was befitting of the 12 Leinster titles held between both clubs. The Laois men will be disappointed that they didn’t get to stamp their authority on the match but St Vincent’s were as ruthless as they have been all year. Tommy Conroy has manufactured a team that will strike fear into any opponent. Next up for the Dublin side is a semi final encounter with Garrycastle of Westmeath in Parnell Park.  

Portlaoise Panel and Scorers

M Nolan; D Seale; P Cotter; B Mulligan; E Whelan; C Healy; C Boyle; K Lillis; S Nerney; G Dillon; B McCormack (0-01); B Glynn; P Cahillane (0-06, 4 frees); Z Touhy (0-01); C Rogers (0-02, 1 free); Subs: R Downey; K Fitzpatrick; R Maher; G Brody; L McGovern; A Kelly; M McNulty; M Rogers; E Bland; E Feane; J Nerney.

Wides: 4

St Vincent's Panel and Scorers

M Savage; K Bonnie; J Curley; H Gill; B Egan; G Brennan; M Concarr; E Fennel; D Murphy; G Burke; D Connolly (0-02, 1 free); S Carthy (2-02); R Trainor (0-02); T Quinn (1-03 2 frees); C Dorney; Subs: D Jordan; M Moore; Cameron Diamond; S Byrne; M Loftus; Tiernan Diamond; Cormac Diamond (0-02); A Baxter; G Murphy; L Bree; B Quigley; M McNally; A Martin; K Malone; Turlough Diamond; L Sheehy; E Brady; C Brennan; J Brennan.

Wides: 8

S.DAWSON 09/10/14

St Vincent's retain Dublin SFC title by narrowest of margins

St Vincent's 0-14 St Oliver Plunkett's Eoghan Ruadh 1-10

St Vincent’s were crowned champions of Dublin for the second year in a row after a hard fought victory against St Oliver Plunkett’s E.R. Vinnies grinded out the result despite a late fight back from Plunkett’s in front of a packed Parnell Park.

Throw in was delayed by ten minutes as droves of fans ushered through the turnstiles. Playing conditions were perfect on a balmy Monday evening for this star studded event. The pre match chatter circulated around both team’s potent attack and preference for a high tempo game.

It was Bernard Brogan who pointed Plunkett’s in to an early lead with two points, one from play and one from a free after a Ger Brennan foul. A Gareth Smith point with five minutes played ensured momentum was entirely with the pre match underdogs.

Vinnies could have been left chasing a six point deficit without registering a score themselves if it was not for an outstanding save from their ‘keeper Michael Savage. The Vinnies number one made up for a poor short kick out which saw Ger Brennan dispossessed and Bernard Brogan through on goal. Savage displayed great reflexes and strength to palm away Brogan’s powerful goal bound effort.

Half forward Gavin Burke thought he had scored Vincent’s first point of the game but play was called back for a ’45 missed by referee Dave Feeney. It took 11 minutes before Vinnies scored, thanks to a long range effort from marauding midfielder Eamon Fennell.

A further point from full forward Ciaran Dorney was preceded by a sweetly struck Diarmuid Connolly score from his left boot. Plunkett’s deployed two sweepers concentrating on a counter attacking style of football which has proved successful for them thus far.

With the scores level, four apiece, Gavin Burke should have scored a goal for Vincent’s after some intricate hand passing from Ciaran Dorney and Shane Carthy put Burke through on goal. However, the nimble forward had too much elevation on his shot which saw it drift over the black spot.

Scoring was sporadic in this closely contested duel. Plunkett’s Alan Brogan and Gareth Smith both shot wides before a late rally from St Vincent’s ensured they would hold a two point lead going into half time.

Firstly, Tomas Quinn pointed a free from his hands before Gavin Burke scored his second point of the match. It was a crucial time to score with the last play of the first half. After a slow start, St Vincent’s grew in to the game showcasing a regimented performance in every area of the pitch. Plunkett’s were by no means out of the contest, but Vinnies, as they have done all year, looked wholly determined to win at all costs.

After going in to the interval on a high, the opening five minutes of the second half saw Vinnies hit four consecutive wides. These were after a Bernard Brogan free had closed the gap to a solitary point.

Shane Carthy was magnificent throughout the second half and was fully deserving of his two points he scored in quick succession eight minutes in to the half. A Ciaran Dorney score increased St Vincent’s lead to four points, 0-10 to 0-06.

Plunkett’s replied with another Bernard Brogan score before substitute Cameron Diamond pointed a shot with 42 minutes played. Diamond made an immediate impact to the match after replacing Daithi Murphy minutes earlier.

St Vincent’s looked to be cruising to victory. They were leading, 0-14 to 0-8 with just ten minutes still to play. Diarmuid Connolly may have only registered one first half point, but he dissected the Plunkett’s backline on many occasions, assuming the role of playmaker.

It was from a Connolly pass that Ruairi Trainor scored his first of two points. Vinnies could have then wrapped up the match when Trainor was one on one with ‘keeper Alan O’Mara. However, the Cavan net-minder displayed good reactions with a close range save. Again Connolly was at the epicentre of play, beginning the move before passing to Shane Carthy who released Trainor through on goal.

Both teams were empting their benches as the match was reaching its conclusion. With three minutes left to play a long range pass was lofted in to the St Vincent’s square. It was hit and hope time for Plunkett’s as they desperately sought after a goal.

The evergreen Alan Brogan rose high in the crowd of players to fist the ball into Michael Savage’s net. Game on. This was followed by a pointed free from his brother Bernard. Possession was vital and ultimately lack of possession was what undone Plunkett’s. They failed to claim the resulting kick out after an Alan Brogan wide and time ran out for Pat McDonagh’s men.

The current All Ireland club champions showcased a determined display which resulted in Ger Brennan lifting the trophy for the Marino outfit. Plunkett’s battled back with a dogged display in the last five minutes although it wasn’t enough to topple Vincent's. They now look forward to a run in the Leinster Club Championship, hoping to replicate the success of last year. They face Portlaoise on November 9th, in Portlaoise.

St Vincent’s Panel and Scorers

M Savage; K Bonnie; J Curley; H Gill; B Egan; G Brennan; M Concarr; E Fennell (0-01); D Murphy; G Burke (0-03); D Connolly (0-01); S Carthy (0-02); R Trainor (0-02); C Dorney (0-03); T Quinn(0-01, 1 free); Subs: D Jordan; M Moore; Cameron Diamond (0-01); S Byrne; M Loftus; Tiernan Diamond; Cormac Diamond; A Baxter; G Murphy; L Bree; B Quigley; C Wilson; A Martin; K Malone; Turlough Diamond; L Sheehy; E Brady; C Brennan; J Brennan.

Wides: 9

St Oliver Plunkett’s Eoghan Ruadh Panel and Scorers

A O’Mara; R O’Connor; S Lyons; E Clarke; D Lally; J Brogan; D Kelly; C Dunleavy; P Brogan; D Brogan; C Walsh; A Brogan (1-01); N Walsh; B Brogan (0-05, 3 frees); G Smith (0-03, 1 ’45); Subs: N Murray; R McConnell; L Herron; D Matthews; G McCormack; P Lee (0-01); S Moran; R O’Brien; S O’Connor; P McNulty; J O’Donoghue; E O’Sullivan; L O’Doherty; P Bergin; L Eglington.

Wides: 8

S.DAWSON 28/10/14

Crokes prevail in Dublin SHC final despite dogged St Jude's display

Kimacud Crokes 2-16 St Jude's 1-15

It took eighty minutes to separate Kilmacud Crokes and St Jude’s. The experience of Crokes ensured a four point victory after a frantic and, at times, chaotic game of hurling.

A last gasp Damien Kelly point broke St Jude’s hearts at the end of the sixty minutes to take this enthralling final in to extra time. St Jude’s were nearly home and dry before two late points from Sean McGrath and Kelly restored parity.

It was St Jude’s, making a debut appearance in a SHC final, who got off to the better start thanks to two early pointed frees from Fionn Riain O’Broin. The nimble corner forward would be his teams leading point scorer, not for the first time this year, in a fantastic display of hurling.

The Tymon North side maintained a lead for the opening quarter of the match before a Sean McGrath point from play brought the teams level, three points apiece. The Templeogue club were applying relentless pressure high up the field, dispossessing their opponents on numerous occasions before they could make a dent in their half.

Crokes took the lead for the first time in the match thanks to an easily pointed free from Sean McGrath with 16 minutes played. Moments later, full forward Oisin O’Rorke bisected the posts after receiving possession from a quickly taken McGrath free. Surprisingly, it was St Jude’s who were moving the ball around more efficiently than their much fancied opponents.

Mark Maguire could have created a goal scoring opportunity if it was not for some resilient Crokes’ defending in their full back line. Maguire gained possession after some intricate hand passing from Joe McManus and Ronan Joyce.

Jude’s had already been gifted a goal opportunity when Fionn Riain O’Broin nearly rounded off a complete performance with a three-pointer. However, Crokes’ ‘keeper Matt Collins pulled off an outstanding save to guide the sliotar away and eradicate any potential danger to his goal.

O’Riain Broin was St Jude’s most potent attacking option at times when Danny Sutcliffe had dropped deep. It was the number 13 who pointed his fourth free of the half on the stroke of half time to ensure the teams went into the interval level, five points apiece. This came three minutes after Sutcliffe had pointed a sweetly struck effort which drifted in from the left and over the black spot.

Second half

It took two minutes before the first point of the second half was scored. McGrath and O’Riain Broin were displaying a master-class in free taking. This time, it was the Crokes’ talisman who showcased his arsenal of talents by giving his team an early lead.

St Jude’s, and Dublin inter county star, Danny Sutcliffe began the second half just as he finished the second. Sutcliffe pointed a sensational point from the left of the pitch to bring the scores level for just the third time in 35 minutes.

The play opened up more in the second half with a plethora of sweetly struck scores seen from both teams. Crokes introduced a number of substitutions and it was Jude Sweeney, fresh off the bench, who scored a sublime effort to bring the score to 0-07 to 0-07.

With 48 minutes played St Jude’s had opened up a three point gap for the first time in the match. O’Riain Broin pointed yet another free to sit St Jude’s firmly in the driving seat. However, Crokes’ reply was immediate and effective. Midfielder Ross O’Carroll was released through on goal from a Damien Kelly pass and finished off his chance with aplomb with a crisp ground stroke low to the left of the St Jude’s ‘keeper Nolan.

The goal set up a grandstand finish. With less than ten minutes to play, the teams were level. It was St Jude’s who were gaining momentum with crucially timed points from Sutcliffe and O’Riain Broin. Both teams were emptying their benches in an attempt to maximise fitness to see them over the line.

After a Ross O’Carroll wide for Crokes, an O’Riain Broin free increased St Jude’s lead to two points as the end of the match rapidly approached. Crokes remained calm and composed. This was the experience of winning the 2012 Dublin SHC shining through. This was the ruthless will to win instilled by Ollie Baker since taking over the reigns in Stillorgan.

A late Sean McGrath free was followed by a Damien Kelly point. Cue scenes of adulation in Parnell Park for the partisan Crokes following. The match, confusingly, was destined for extra time. As Danny Harrington’s whistle reverberated around the Donnycarney venue, it wasn’t clear if extra time or a replay would be needed.

Extra time

All St Jude’s needed to do was to keep hold of possession in the dying seconds. A task easier said than done against a formidable opponent, Kilmacud Crokes. Ryan O’Dwyer and Cian MacGabhann got Crokes off to the perfect start in extra time.

St Jude’s had no answer to a rampant Crokes showing. O’Riain Broin uncharacteristically missed a free before Rob Hardy saw his long range effort drift wide of the post also. Just as the first half of extra time was coming to an end Sean McGrath was released through on goal by earlier goal scorer Ross O’Carroll.

McGrath capped off a productive performance by drilling the sliotar past the hapless Graham Nolan in the St Jude’s goal. The score line read 2-13 to 0-14 at the short break in extra time. Crokes opened up an unassailable lead which no doubt made tired St Jude’s legs even heavier.

Sean Fallon’s men battled gallantly in the second half of extra time. A Ronan Joyce point was preceded by a Paul Maguire goal from a set piece. As much as St Jude’s hassled and harried their opponents, Crokes had that little extra to ensure there would be further silverware in the Kilmacud Crokes clubhouse this year.

Points from Dillon Mulligan, Sean McGrath, and Ryan O’Dwyer brought the final score to 2-16 to 1-15. St Jude’s will be proud in their performance, knowing they gave it their all. However, it was experience, class, and fitness which saw Kilmacud Crokes crowned Dublin Senior Hurling Champions despite a dogged St Jude’s display.

Kilmacud Crokes Panel and Scorers:

M Collins; N Corcoran; Rory O’Carroll; J Clinton; C MacGabhann (0-01); J Doughan; B O’Carroll; D Mulligan (0-01); Ross O’Carroll (1-00); R O’Dwyer (0-02); D Kelly (0-01); S McGrath (1-06, 5 frees); C Conway (0-01); O O’Rorke (0-01); B O’Rorke (0-01); Subs: P Tighe; R Murphy; B Mulligan; J Sweeney (0-01); O’Loughlin; B Horan; J Burke (0-01); B O’Leidhin; M Geragthy; C Clinton; R Walsh; A De Paor; T Clarke; D O’Murchu; G McMorrow; C Lafferty; L McMullan; N O’Reardon.

Wides: 8

St Jude’s Panel and Scorers:

G Nolan; E McLoughlin; G McManus; C Mangan; R Hardy; A O’Beirne; R O’Brien; P Maguire (1-00); N Mangan; R Joyce (0-01); D Sutcliffe (0-03); M McGuire; F O’Riain Broin (0-10, 9 frees); T Devlin; J McManus (0-01); Subs: M Hartnett; P Aylward; P Garvey; V Walsh; J Ryan; B Moran; A McGovern; S Larkin; J Kennedy; N Cronin; C O’Riain Broin; L Kelly; M Hannon; P Larkin; O O’Donnell.

Wides: 9

S.DAWSON 28/10/14

Dublin Senior Football Final line up decided after two raucous semi final matches

The Final of the 2014 Dublin Senior Football Championship will be contested by St Oliver Plunkett’s E.R. and St Vincent’s after their respective semi final victories in Parnell Park on Saturday evening.

The first semi final of the day saw Plunkett’s face stiff opposition from St Jude’s. The men from Dublin 7 recorded a comprehensive 1-11 to 0-04 victory over their south Dublin opponents. The opening quarter yielded just four points, two apiece, in a cagey start to this semi final encounter.

Antrim inter-county star Mark Sweeney was pulling the strings for Jude’s in the middle of the park, creating a scoring opportunity for corner back Rob Finnegan to kick his team into a first half lead. However, three unanswered scores from James Brogan, Niall Walsh, and Bernard Brogan ensured Plunkett’s led at the half time break, 0-05 to 0-03.

The second half was completely dominated by Plunkett’s. Their quick counter-attacking style of football implemented by Pat McDonagh and his management team was a joy to behold. St Jude’s had no answer to their impressive tactics and were second to every ball as Plunkett’s outclassed their opponents in all departments.

Bernard Brogan pointed the first score of the second half before Conor Walsh and Gareth Smith followed suit with points of their own. St Jude’s solitary point of the second half came from the boot of Ronan Joyce with 40 minutes played.

A late Bernard Brogan goal rounded off a complete performance from St Oliver Plunkett’s. St Jude’s ‘keeper John Brian Carthy had no chance to stop a clinical effort from Brogan as he stroked the ball low into the corner of the net. Soon after, Plunkett’s corner forward Gareth Smith pointed a ’45 to finish the match off in comprehensive fashion.

Confidence will be high in the Plunkett’s camp after their dominant ten point victory as they continue in search of a first Dublin Senior Football Championship in the club’s history.

If Plunkett’s are to succeed in claiming this years Dublin title, they will have to overcome a regimented St Vincent’s. The Marino outfit grinded out a hard fought seven point victory over Ballyboden St Enda’s.

Not for the first time in this years Championship, Diarmuid Connolly stole the headlines with yet another masterful goal, top scoring with 1-06 to his name. The match swung in the balance for the majority of the 60 minutes unlike the earlier one-sided encounter.

The first score of the match came within the opening 30 seconds when former Dublin Minor Sam Molony pointed a confident early shot over the black spot. Both teams exchanged frees in a physical opening quarter of the match. Ultimately though, it was Connolly who would be the difference between the two sides.

The Dublin inter-county star kicked four points, two off either foot, to galvanise a St Vincent’s team going in search of back to back county titles. However, Ballyboden battled diligently and led at the interval, 0-08 to 0-06. It was an entertaining first half with free flowing football aplenty in the Donnycarney venue.

The second half began with Diarmuid Connolly embarking on a marauding run through the ‘Boden defence. Connolly’s agile footwork and astounding strength ensured he found himself in range of Daire Walsh’s goal. Connolly unleashed an unstoppable left footed strike into the net to kick Vinnies into an early second half lead.

However, ‘Boden didn’t let their heads drop and their reply was efficient and immediate. Two points from first half substitute Daniel Davey were preceded by a pointed free from Andrew Kerin. As the match neared its conclusion, it was the current All Ireland Senior Football champions who pulled away with points from Tomas Quinn, Diarmuid Connolly, and Shane Carthy.

Although St Vincent’s were in the ascendancy, ‘Boden, yet again, clawed their way back into this end to end semi final thanks to a goal from Conal Keaney. With 52 minutes played the ‘Boden full forward latched on to a hopeful long range pass into the square from Aran Waters.

Keaney’s goal shortened Vinnies lead to just two points as ‘Boden hoped to set up a breathtaking finish. However, Tommy Conroy’s men upped their intensity and pointed five consecutive scores to ensure a hard fought seven point victory, 1-17 to 1-10 in favour of St Vincent’s.

Dublin Senior Football Championship Final

St Oliver Plunkett’s Eoghan Ruadh vs St Vincent’s.

Monday 27th October, throw in 19:45, Parnell Park.

S.DAWSON 20/10/14

St Jude’s and Kilmacud Crokes emerge victorious from Dublin SHC semi-finals

St Jude’s and Kilmacud Crokes will contest this year’s Dublin Senior Hurling Championship final which will be played in two weeks time after their respective semi final victories over O’Tooles and Ballyboden St Enda’s in Parnell Park yesterday evening.

It was a historic victory for St Jude’s as the club reaches new levels contesting a Dublin SHC final for the first time in their 36 year history. A 56^th minute Danny Sutcliffe point secured victory for St Jude’s over O’Tooles in an exhilarating game of hurling played in the Donnycarney venue.

O’Tooles will be distraught after battling gallantly throughout the 60 minutes only to be undone by a terrific score from Dublin inter-county star Sutcliffe. It was his third score of the match in a semi final played at a frantic pace.

The Templeogue outfit raced into an early two point lead thanks to points from Mark Maguire and Ronan Joyce. O’Tooles reply was accurate and immediate. A point from Andy Morris was preceded by a pointed free from Conor Carton, who would showcase a master class in free taking throughout the match.

O’Tooles could have added a goal to their tally from the hurl of Peadar Carton if it was not for an outstanding save from St Jude’s ‘keeper Graham Nolan, who somehow directed the sliotar wide from Carton’s close range shot. O’Tooles had a two point lead going into the interval after an evenly balanced opening half.

St Jude’s enjoyed the majority of possession in the second half as both teams exchanged points with the physicality levels increasing as the match entered the last quarter. Jesse Kennedy, who was named at corner back, marshalled the St Jude’s half forward line well, along with playmaker Danny Sutcliffe. Add to this the assured accuracy of Fionn O Riain Broin from dead ball situations and this was an extremely difficult game plan to breakdown.

Conor Carton’s final point of the match in the 54^th minute levelled the scores for the seventh time. However, it was Sutcliffe who would steal the headlines for St Jude’s as his point proved to be the match winner. St Jude’s emerged victorious after a colossal battle with O’Tooles and they will now face Kilmacud Crokes in this year’s final after their comfortable seven point victory over Ballyboden St Enda’s.

Crokes’ corner forward Caolan Conway was instrumental in his team’s victory throughout this eagerly anticipated semi final. Conway pointed seven points to ensure his team would see off the resilient challenge of Ballyboden. At half time Crokes had a lead of four points, 0-09 to 0-05.

An early second half goal from the hurl of Sean McGrath put an end to a short spell of momentum ‘Boden had created. However, Ballyboden, inspired by a notable performance from Dublin inter-county star Conal Keaney, scored four consecutive points to reduce Crokes’ lead to a solitary point as the match neared its conclusion.

Crokes always looked the hungrier of the two sides. Similar to when these two teams met in the group stages of this years Championship, Crokes registered a resounding victory. Four late unanswered points from McGrath, Conway, and a brace from Damien Kelly meant the Stillorgan outfit would be able to look forward to a final appearance, hoping to emulate their 2012 Dublin SHC final victory.

After two scintillating semi final encounters, this years final is sure to be an enthralling encounter between two of Dublin’s finest hurling clubs in recent years. 

S.DAWSON 14/10/14

Dublin Senior Football Championship quarter final round up

The Dublin Senior Football Championship draw was announced yesterday with reigning champions St Vincent’s due to play Ballyboden St Enda’s and St Oliver Plunkett’s facing off against St Jude’s.

The big shock of the quarter final stage was the exit of early favourites Ballymun Kickhams at the hands of St Oliver Plunkett’s E.R. The Cabra outfit dispatched of their north Dublin rivals thanks to goals from cousins James and Alan Brogan. The first goal of the match was registered on the 15^th minute mark, just four minutes before Alan Brogan slid a shot past Sean Currie with the inside of his left boot.

Brothers in arms, Alan and Bernard Brogan of Plunkett's.

Paul Curran’s men were unable to deal with numerous fast paced attacks from Plunkett’s. Dublin underage star Niall Walsh was constantly dropping back from his corner forward position to give Plunkett’s midfielder Craig Dunleavy a consistent outlet, as the Cabra men bossed this physical encounter. Plunkett’s were fully deserving of their 2-12 to 0-10 victory.

A spectacular effort from Bernard Brogan summed up the match as everything seemed to sail over the black spot for Plunkett’s. Ballymun will be rueing missed opportunities on a day when they were outclassed across the pitch and outscored by tactically smart Plunkett’s team.

In the second match on Saturday afternoon in Parnell Park, current All Ireland Club champions St Vincent’s saw off Templeogue Synge Street with a comprehensive 11 point victory. A second half hat trick from Tomas Quinn ensured victory after a first half which was very much in the balance. The teams were level at the interval, 0-09 to 1-06, after a Ger Vickery goal had St Vincent’s on the back-foot.

St Vincent’s blitzed their opponents in the opening 14 minutes of the half scoring 3-06 without reply. Diarmuid Connolly was pulling the strings from centre forward with ease. The evergreen Tomas Quinn capitalised on every moment of possession given to the potent corner forward. St Vincent’s other corner forward Ruairi Trainor also scored four magnificently taken points to see Vinnies over the line.

Templeogue Synge Street managed to score an unanswered 2-02 in the last five minutes of the match thanks to a brace of points from Niall Scully and goals from Eoghan O’Gara and substitute Jack Swaine. However, it was too little too late for the south Dublin outfit. Vinnies quelled the aerial threat of Eoghan O’Gara by doubling up on him for most of the match thanks to a resilient full back line.

St Vincent’s quick movement of the ball was a joy to behold scoring from acute angles with ease. With Ballymun bowing out of this years Championship, it is hard to look past St Vincent’s regaining their Dublin Senior Football crown after a pulsating performance in Parnell Park, finishing 3-20 to 3-09.

St Vincent's Daithi Murphy under pressure form a resilient Templeogue defence.

On Sunday in O’Toole Park, St Jude’s got the better of St Brigid’s. Their performance was inspired by a mesmerising display from centre forward Kevin McManamon. The Dublin inter-county star scored 3-05, with all but one point coming from play, to see his team see off St Brigid’s on a score line of 3-11 to 0-12.

The result was beyond doubt at half time with St Jude’s leading 1-07 to 0-01, after a rampant opening 30 minutes. Tony McEntee’s men attempted to regain respectability after an embarrassing first half which saw St Brigid’s miss a plethora of kickable opportunities. In a near flawless performance, St Jude’s were on top in every area of the pitch. St Jude’s will meet a confident St Oliver Plunkett’s team in the pick of the two semi finals.

In the last quarter final match to be played, Ballyboden St Enda’s beat Lucan Sarsfields 0-14 to 0-09 in O’Toole Park. ‘Boden scored the first four points of the match without reply, led masterfully by former Dublin star Declan O’Mahony. It was another former Dublin player, Stephen O’Shaugnessy, who was linking up well in the Lucan forwards line.

O’Shaugnessy, whose favoured position is across the full back line, was creating problems for ‘Boden along with young Emmet O’Conghaile. However, Ballyboden showcased a regimented performance leading from start to finish. The Rathfarnham outfit were leading by seven points with just 20 minutes played in a match they thoroughly dominated.

Try as they might, Lucan could not manage to get a foothold in the match. Ballyboden were in firm control of this quarter final which was largely expected before throw in. ‘Boden will face a stiff test against St Vincent’s knowing they will be up against much tougher opponents in their next outing.

The date and throw in times of this years semi final matches are due to be announced later this week.

 Full list of Dublin Senior Football Championship Semi Final matches:

St Vincent’s vs Ballyboden St Enda’s

St Jude’s vs St Oliver Plunkett’s Eoghan Ruadh

S.DAWSON 06/10/14

Dublin Senior Football Championship Last 16 Round-Up

St Oliver Plunkett's Ross McConnell and St Anne's Ciaran Murphy compete in their Dublin SFC last 16 match

The Dublin Senior Football Championship is approaching the quarter final stages after some scintillating displays of football in the last 16 round. The quarter finals will comprise entirely of division one teams after any hopes of an underdog upset were eradicated this week.

On Wednesday night it seemed like a kicking contest between Dublin inter-county stars Cormac Costello and Kevin McManamon  would be the narrative as St Jude’s played third division Whitehall Colmcille. However, neither displayed their usual high standard of football. Costello was just returning to fitness after battling a virus and McManamon was marked out of the game by a resilient Whitehall full back line. It was left to Kevin’s brother, Brendan, who is also familiar to the Dublin panel, to ensure St Jude’s would prevail victorious by ten points on a score line of 1-13 to 0-06. Brendan McManamon’s four frees and solitary point from open play accompanied D.A. Donnelly’s 1-05 which left Whitehall with no chance as St Jude’s progress to the quarter finals.

In the second match of the night in Parnell Park, Diarmuid Connolly stole the show as St Vincent’s steamrolled St Sylvester’s 3-12 to 1-09 with a comprehensive victory. The reigning All Ireland Club Champions looked comfortable throughout the 60 minutes against a resilient Malahide outfit. Although corner forwards Rory Trainor and Tomas Quinn scored 1-03 and 0-03, respectively, it was Diarmuid Connolly who would be on the minds of every spectator departing the Donnycarney venue after scoring that goal. Connolly set off on a 40 yard run dissecting the Syl’s defence with ease before a neat one-two with Mossy Quinn resulted in Connolly volleying the ball into the net of Dominic McDonnell. The return of centre back Ger Brennan from a lengthy absence was a welcome boost for the Marino side who are on course for retaining their Dublin Senior Football Championship title.

In O’Toole Park on Wednesday evening, Lucan Sarsfield’s beat a young Raheny side to progress to the next round. Former regular Dublin starters, Paul Casey and Stephen O’Shaughnessy marshalled Lucan’s backline flawlessly and it was Emmet O’Conghaile in the Lucan forward line who kicked his team to a deserved victory. It is clear to see why O’Conghaile has been omnipresent in Dublin underage panels, a player who no doubt will make his mark on the Dublin Senior side very soon. Raheny were without their lively attacking duo of Rutherson Real and Gavin Ivory and succumbed to a 2-12 to 0-12 defeat. Despite the brave efforts of young midfielders Brian Fenton and Paddy O’Higgins, Raheny never looked like challenging their opponents as Lucan prevailed with ease.

The one match on Friday evening in Parnell Park saw Templeogue Synge Street knock Paul Caffrey’s Na Fianna out of this years Championship. The final score was 2-09 to 0-14 as a spirited Na Fianna side were undone by Eoghan O’Gara who was unplayable at times in the T.S.S. full forward line. Similar to their senior hurling team who were undone by Lucan Sarsfields, Na Fianna are a very young team. Although no team has the time to be in transition, there is certain hope for the future. T.S.S. will find it extremely difficult as they meet current champions St Vincent’s in the next round.

On Saturday afternoon, it took St Brigid’s extra time to beat Skerries Harps in an entertaining clash in Chanel. Skerries were fully deserving of their one point lead as the 60^th minute approached. However, it was Philly Ryan who broke the county Dublin team’s hearts with a last gasp equaliser. Ryan’s point made up for two earlier kickable misses from under the black spot. Skerries never recovered from the last minute equaliser and eventually lost out 0-15 to 0-13 after extra time. It was a deflated performance from Skerries in extra time as they just didn’t have the legs to keep up with their opponents. Tony McEntee’s team needs a much improved performance if they are to overcome the challenge of St Jude’s in the quarter finals.

Ballyboden St Enda’s set up a quarter final tie with Lucan Sarsfields after they made light work of Ballinteer St John’s. Ballyboden beat their local rivals by 16 points on a score line of 3-15 to 0-08. Dublin inter-county hurler Conal Keaney relived his inter-county football form as he notched 1-02 with an impressive display. Ballinteer St John’s will look to regroup after a heavy defeat from a team a division above them.

In Parnell Park on Saturday, a lacklustre performance from St Oliver Plunkett’s was enough to see them past St Anne’s on a score line of 1-12 to 0-09. The Cabra outfit who have the Brogan dynasty – James, Darragh, Alan, and Bernard - at their disposal, shot nine first half wides in thirty minutes riddled with mistakes. Pat McDonagh’s team were lucky to come away with a six point victory which flattered Plunkett’s. Bernard Brogan was the scorer of the games only goal which galvanised his team to knock a proud St Anne’s out of this years Championship. There is plenty of room for improvement if St Oliver Plunkett’s are to pose any threat against bookies favourites Ballymun Kickhams in the quarter finals.

In the final match of the last 16 round, a depleted Fingal Ravens team lost out to Ballymun Kickhams by 21 points. Ballymun are awash with inter-county level stars. Dublin’s James McCarthy organised their defence diligently from the half back line and Dean Rock kicked 1-05 in an accurate display of football. Ballymun looked ruthless as they easily dispatched of their north county Dublin opponents. It is hard to look past Ballymun for this years Championship title, but there is many mouth watering clashes penned in for the quarter finals. Times and venues for all quarter final matches will be announced on Tuesday.

Full list of Dublin Senior Football Championship Quarter Final matches:

St Vincent’s vs Templeogue Synge Street

Ballymun Kickhams vs St Oliver Plunkett’s Eoghan Ruadh

Ballyboden St Enda’s vs Lucan Sarsfields

St Jude’s vs St Brigid’s

S.DAWSON 21/09/2014

Peter Synnott: From O'Tooles GAA club to the iconic Barbarians rugby team!

Peter Synnott (L), playing for his current club, Esher.

There are many Irish international rugby stars that can attribute their sports upbringing to the GAA. Players such as Shane Horgan, Geordan Murphy, Gavin Duffy, Tommy Bowe, and Rob Kearney, to name but a few.

But few can claim to represent one of the most prestigious and iconic rugby teams – the Barbarians.

Being asked to represent the Barbarians is one of the highest accolades a rugby player can achieve in his career. This Wednesday, Clontarf Rugby Club will welcome the Barbarians to Castle Avenue in what is being dubbed 'The Real Battle of Clontarf'.

The match has been organised in line with celebrations which have been held over the weekend, marking the millennium anniversary of the historic- Battle of Clontarf.

The tradition of the Barbarians dates back to 1890, to the inception of Rugby Union. Their jersey is black and white hoops with black shorts. However, the socks of each player are unique, as they don the socks of their club team.

Dubliner, Peter Synnott, will be lining out for the Barbarians on Wednesday evening, and he will be wearing his clubs socks. However, they are not the socks of his current rugby club, Esher, based in London. They will be the green and white socks of O'Tooles GAA Club.

Synnott is a talented rugby player who has played at a high level for many years. However, he will never forget his ties to St Laurence O'Tooles, in north Dublin.

The Synnott family have a tradition with O'Tooles going back four generations. Peter's great-grandfather was actually on the field representing Dublin during the infamous Bloody Sunday match, in November 1920 in Croke Park.

Peter, the youngest of three brothers, played most of his Gaelic career two years above his age bracket. This helped mould him into the tough, physically strong athlete that he is today.

In 2003, Peter won the Dublin Feile. This resulted in a call up to the Dublin Under 14 hurling squad. It was clear from a young age that Peter would be a highly talented sportsman.

He played alongside current Dublin inter-county hurlers such as Oisin Gough, David Treacy, Paul Schutte, and Peter Kelly. His love of GAA was tribal. However, his love of rugby became more prevalent during his secondary level schooling in Belvedere College. Peter emerged as a tough-tackling, powerful ball-carrier, comfortable anywhere along the back-row.

However, what was unusual about the man who usually starred for Belvedere at number seven was that he was also their place kicker. The obscurity of a back-row forward assuming kicking duties stems from his early days playing Gaelic football.

He kicked the winning penalty from within his own half to help Belvedere win the schools cup against St Marys in 2008.

Peter now resides in London and plays semi-professional rugby for Esher. They play in the National League One, which is the third division of rugby in England. He has earned a successful living in construction management and still gets paid for playing semi-professional rugby.

Before departing for England, Peter starred for the Leinster schools team and Leinster Under 20 team. He played alongside established professional players such as current Irish Internationals Ian Madigan and Jack McGrath at Leinster, Tom Sexton at the Melbourne Rebels, and Eamonn Sheridan at London Irish during his spell in the Leinster underage setup. Peter also represented Leinster 'A' against Glasgow in 2008.

He appeared for Clontarf too in the 2009/10 season under the management of Bernard Jackman, now head coach of Grenoble in the Top 14.

When he first moved to London, the multi-talented sportsman played for London Irish 'A' before transferring to Esher. Peter even captained London Irish in the JP Morgan Sevens Competition in 2012. He still has great ambitions to return to the Championship with Esher and play in the second division of English rugby.

His kicking ability has never left him, as the flanker still often assumes kicking duties for Esher. If he ever returns to Dublin, Peter would love to play GAA once more for his beloved O'Tooles.

But for now, there will be a proud O'Tooles representative playing for the most historic rugby team in the game. The Barbarians is an honour bestowed to few rugby players, and Peter is aware of the responsibility that comes with the chance of playing for the 'Baa-Baas'.

There is no doubt Peter would not be the successful rugby player that he is today without his time at O'Tooles GAA club. He immersed himself in sport from a young age. He has transferred the abilities he amassed playing GAA to his rugby career.

A rugby career which has been awash with highlights; although none bigger than representing the Barbarians in his hometown of Dublin.

For Peter, the Synnott family, O'Tooles GAA club, Belvedere College, and Clontarf rugby club, Wednesday night is sure to be a proud and inspiring night for everyone involved.

S.DAWSON 24/04/14