Kilruane MacDonaghs Notes Apr-10-2019

 

Senior

MacDonaghs recorded a narrow but well-deserved two-point victory over Killenaule in the first round of the County championship in Templemore. In 2016 and 2018 the southerners had prevailed when these two sides met so there was more a sense of relief than euphoria in the Magpies dressing room after the match. A dominant half backline of Darragh Peters, Craig Morgan and Justin Cahill laid the foundation for victory. Craig was deployed as a man marker on Bubbles O’ Dwyer and kept the Tipperary sharpshooter well subdued.

MacDonaghs, playing with the aid of a light breeze, started well and had three points on the board before John O’Dwyer opened Killenaule’s account with a pointed free in the 13th minute. Kilruane should have been further ahead at this stage as there was a liberal supply of quality ball delivered to our inside forwards.  The crucial score of this half came in the 27th minute when Cian Darcy finished to the net from close range.

At the interval MacDonaghs were full value for their 1-8 to 0-7 lead. Killenaule began the second half in earnest with a brace of points from John O’Dwyer (a free and a sideline). With 44 mins gone Killenaule scored a goal to bring the sides level on 1-13 each. It was now hurl or go home time. MacDonaghs responded to the challenge and Kian O’Kelly fired home a great goal. The impressive Mark O’Neill, who had just been introduced, slotted over a delightful point and the Magpies were in the driving seat. With just six minutes left the lead had stretched to six points. Killenaule rallied in the closing minutes and cut the deficit to two points but Kilruane deservedly took the points on offer. While it wasn’t a vintage performance it was a great win. Focus now switches to the North championship where Silvermines will provide the opposition in Toomevara on Sunday evening at 6pm. We wish a speedy recovery to Thomas Cleary who suffered a shoulder injury in last Sunday’s game.

Team: Thomas Williams, Eoin Hogan, Jack Peters, James Cleary, Darragh Peters (0-1), Justin Cahill, Craig Morgan, Ray McLoughney, Seamus Hennessy, Kian O’Kelly (1-1), Cian Darcy (1-9, 0-8 frees), Niall O’Meara (0-2), Thomas Cleary, Kieran Cahill and Conor Cleary (0-1). Subs: Sean McAdams (0-1) and Mark O’Neill (0-2).

Junior

In the second round of the league we are away to Templederry on Saturday, 21st April with the time to be confirmed.

Minor

In the first round of the league MacDonaghs had to give second best to Ballina in MacDonagh Park. This league is giving the management a great opportunity to give all players game time. On this Thursday, 11th April we are away to Nenagh at 6.30pm.

Under 16

In the first round of the football championship Moneygall/Clonakenny proved too strong for MacDonaghs in Ardcroney.

Under 12

In the football championship both De Wets and Kilruane recorded victories over Burgess in MacDonagh Park.

Community Games

MacDonaghs advanced to the next round of the U11 Community Games hurling championship with a 4-4 to 0-2 victory over Moycarkey-Borris in MacDonagh Park.

Cumann na mBunscol

Ardcroney N.S. qualified for the County U11 hurling final by winning the Blitz in MacDonagh Park. Kilruane N.S. booked a spot in the County semi-final of their competition with victories over Ballinahinch, Lissenhall and Youghalarra schools in the Blitz in Dolla. Cloughjordan Schools also acquitted themselves well in Dolla. Meanwhile, in the first round of the U13 championship Cloughjordan Schools just edged out Lissenhall N.S. on a 4-1 to 3-2 scoreline.

Astro Turf

The official opening of the Astro Turf will be performed by County Chairman John Devane on Friday, 26th April at 8.00pm. On the same night the minor hurlers will be presented with their North medals. Everybody is invited to attend.

Tipperary Draw

The new Tipperary Draw was launched in Thurles last week.  Once again there is a prize fund of €500,000 including twelve cars. Thanks to all who subscribed to the last the Draw and we look forward to your continued support.