O'Raghallaighs club notes

July 31, 2019

Results

Senior Team Match Result:

O’Raghallaighs 3-14, O’Connells 0-10

 

Minor Team Match Report:

Mattock Rangers / Hunterstown Rovers 4-23, O’Raghallaighs 5-8

 

On the face of it, the north roaders looked like they shipped a heavy defeat in this Minor Division 2 league semi-final. When the facts are examined though, the visitors only had 14 players available, only 1 genuine minor, 7 under 16's and 6 under 17's, making this a very credible performance. Add to that 12 of these lads played an under 17 championship match on Monday, all 14 players are to be commended for their efforts for the club this week.

 

Hard work and patience was the order of the night. The hoops showed they are a threat to any team, particularly up front where Danny Reilly, Kyle McElroy, Oliver Clutterbuck, Adam McGrane and Connel Rice caused the hosts numerous problems. Add to that Tony Smith and Conor Vaughey working hard in midfield, with Tim Curran and Andrew Collier constantly attacking from wing back. Curran had his best game since returning from serious injury and had a contender for goal of the season when he won the ball in his own half back line, played a 1- 2 with Danny Reilly, and then had the presence of mind to chip the keeper.

 

Ronan Collins gets better each game. Daire O'Rourke covered every blade of grass and the quiet man of the team kept his man very quiet all night. Debutant Ciaran Dwyer was excellent, and his ability to transfer from defence to attack at pace was excellent. James Smith always seems to be in the right place and his distribution has improved immensely. Definitely one to watch. Finally, Conor Brown in goals didn't make a mistake all night.

 

Team: Conor Brown, Daire O'Rourke, Ciaran Dwyer, James Smith, Tim Curran (1-0), Andrew Collier (0-1), Ronan Collins, Tony Smith (0-1), Conor Vaughey (0-1), Danny Reilly (0-2), Kyle McElroy (2-1), Oliver Clutterbuck, Connel Rice (1-1), Adam McGraw (1-1)

 

U17 Match Report:

St Josephs / St Mochtas 2-10, O'Raghallaighs 6-14

 

The Raghs got their U17 championsip off to a great start with this comprehensive victory in Louth village on Monday night. Despite being deprived of 5 starting players due to injury and holidays, the U16 players stepped into the breach and showed how good they are. It's now for up to the returning players to wrestle the jersey from the U16’s.

 

Captain for the night Ronan Collins was a collossus at the back, ably assisted by James Smith who constantly attacked, and played probably the best pass of the night into full forward Connel Rice to smash the ball to the net for the fifth goal. Daire O'Rourke was efficient as ever, and Andy Collier and Tim Curran worked their socks off.

The returning Ben Smyth put in a great shift. Esosa Omoregbe was unbelievable all night, and his athleticism is a joy to watch. Tony Smith worked tirelessly, along with Oliver Clutterbuck who got his first ever goal. The Louth U16 captain Danny Reilly won endless kick outs. The full forward line of Connel Rice, Adam McGrane and Lee Grifferty were a constant threat. Grifferty put in some massive tackles which were harshly punished on the night.

 

Ciaran Brannigan and Stephen Reynolds came off the bench and slipped into the pattern of play seamlessly. As usual Kyle McElroy glided across the ground and added 1-5 to the score. Special mention to Conor Brown a young goalkeeper who made 1 mistake but didn't let it bother him. His kick outs were long and very accurate the springboard to most attacks. One area to work on is the shot conversion rate. When on top they wasted numerous chances by taking shots from unrealistic positions.

 

Team: Conor Brown, James Smith, Daire O'Rourke, Ronan Collins (c), Tim Curran, Andrew Collier, Esosa Omoregbe, Tony Smith, Ben Smyth, Oliver Clutterbuck (1-1), Kyle McElroy (1-5), Danny Reilly (0-1), Lee Grifferty (1-0), Connel Rice (1-5), Adam McGrane (1-2), Ciaran Brannigan (1-0), Stephen Reynolds

 

Fixtures

On Friday, our U13 side play Naomh Fionnbarra at home. Throw in is at 7.00pm. All support welcome.

 

Fleadh Cheoil 2019

With the Fleadh Cheoil coming back to town this August, the O’Raghallaighs will be renting our grounds to campervans, caravan and tents the week of the festival. With only a 10 minute walk to the town centre, it is a great location for anybody looking to stay for the week’s festivities. A link to the booking form, and ground rules, can be found on our Facebook page.

 

We are also looking for volunteers to help us out with the running of the campsite on our grounds between Saturday 10th August and Monday 18th August.

There are morning, afternoon, evening and night shifts to be covered over the ten days, so we are asking people to get in contact with us and let us know when they can help out. Details can be found on our Facebook page

 

Other business

Congratulations to club members Emily & Louise Johnson, who were part of the Louth U16 team who won the All Ireland C Championship last Wednesday

 

Our clubhouse bar is now hosting a weekly bingo night on Tuesday nights, kicking off at 9.30pm. Make sure to come along to what’s sure to be a great night of fun.

 

Don’t forget our Function Room can be booked for all your party needs, as well as for charity functions. Please contact the clubhouse on 041 983 7132 after 5.00pm daily.


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