Tipperary Sinn Fein Cllrs Annemarie Ryan and David Dunne have stated that new data centres would throttle housing and business development in Tipperary.
The Cllrs were commenting following the release of documents under FOI to Sinn Féin MEP Lynn Boylan which show that a single data centre in West Dublin consumes enough energy to power 200,000 homes – this is 10 times the demand of a nearby pharmaceutical plant which employs 2,000 people.
Cllr Annemarie Ryan said that these documents confirm that we simply cannot absorb data centres without choking out everything else. “What we are seeing is vital electricity capacity meant for new homes is being seized by data centres. Cllr Ryan added that ordinary people are being forced to pay the price not only through blocked housing projects but also rising energy bills.
‘These documents warn us that if new data centres are in areas outside Dublin, they would rapidly exhaust whatever electricity capacity there is on the grid. It also warns that these centres would likely restrict other developments, including the building of new homes’. (Cllr Ryan) Cllr David Dunne stated ‘“If just one of these centres can consume the energy of 200,000 homes, it’s clear that if one were to be located across South Tipperary the consequences would be severe.
‘Tipperary should not be sacrificed just to keep feeding energy hungry data centres’ he added Cllr Dunne concluded, ‘We should be using the power that we have to build homes and give young people the opportunity to build a future in their own communities, to support local businesses and farms – not surrendering it all to profit hungry data centres that create very few local jobs’
People from across Tipperary and beyond gathered in a powerful show of support on Tuesday morning for the grieving family of 18-year-old Bronagh English, who tragically lost her life in a car accident.
Bronagh, recently returned from a family ski trip and eagerly preparing for her Leaving Certificate exams, had also chosen her Debs dress in anticipation of the big night. At her funeral Mass, she was remembered as someone who brought light and happiness wherever she went.
Her sister Mia paid an emotional tribute during the service, saying, “Being Bronagh’s sister was like living a dream. We’ll carry you with us every day and every step of the way.”
Bronagh was the beloved daughter of Michael and Danielle English, and a loving sister to Mia, Mikey, and David. She was also a treasured granddaughter to Greta and Donie Ormonde, and to Carmel and her late husband, John English.
The funeral Mass was held at St. John the Baptist Church in Powerstown, Clonmel, followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery. Bronagh, who lived at Anner Park House on Waterford Road in Clonmel, was a Leaving Certificate student at Rockwell College.
The fatal single-car crash occurred in Kilmoyler last Thursday night.
Symbols of Bronagh’s passions and personality were brought to the altar of the church where she had received many of her sacraments and regularly attended Mass. Among the items were family photos, ski goggles, her dancing shoes, and a fishing rod—each telling a story of the joy and spirit she brought to life.
Her brother Mikey shared fond memories of Bronagh’s energy and enthusiasm, saying she was the life of every family celebration. He spoke of her recent ski holiday and recalled how, on an earlier trip, she surprised everyone by catching fish in the Amazon rainforest.
Bronagh had explored various dance forms—from Irish dancing to ballet—before finding her groove in a Strictly Come Dancing-style event last year. Mikey said she deeply loved her six years at Rockwell College, where she built lasting friendships and shared unforgettable moments. This year, her classmates voted her the “smiliest person” in the school.
Her father, Michael, described her as a “wonderful child” deeply loved by all who knew her. He acknowledged the profound heartbreak the family is enduring and expressed gratitude for the outpouring of kindness since the accident.
Danielle, Bronagh’s mother, extended heartfelt thanks to the emergency services for their compassion and professionalism at the scene. “They went above and beyond—we are so grateful,” she said.
Fr Peter Ahearne, Parish Priest, spoke of the deep shock and sadness surrounding Bronagh’s untimely passing. “There are no words that can lessen the pain this family is going through. Their world has been turned upside down, and we all share in their heartbreak,” he told mourners.
Missing woman Ellen O’Reilly, who Gardai believed may have travelled to Cashel
Cashel was the subject of a national missing persons search over the weekend, when a fifteen-year-old girl went missing from her home in Dundalk, Co. Louth. Ellen O’Reilly, who is 15 years old, was reported missing from Dundalk on Friday, 18th April, 2025. She was last seen in the town shortly before 7pm.
Issuing a missing persons appeal, Gardai have shared a full description of the missing teen and also reveal that Ellen may have travelled to Cashel, where she is said to have relatives living in the town.
A spokesperson for An Garda Siochana said that “Gardaí are seeking the public’s assistance in tracing the whereabouts of Ellen O’Reilly (15) who was reported missing from Dundalk, Co. Louth on Friday 18th April 2025.
Ellen was last seen in the Dundalk town area at approximately 6.50pm on Friday, 18th April 2025 She is described as being approximately 5 foot 3 inches in height, of slim build, with blonde hair and blue eyes.
They were asking anyone who may have seen the young girl, or a young girl that might for her description, to contact them as a matter of urgency.
Holycross-Ballycahill Parish has a lot to celebrate this year. The Golden Jubilee of the restoration of the Abbey Church takes place in 2025. The solemn official opening took place on 5th October 1975 and was an international as well as a national event.
The Abbey 50 Committee have organised a number of events to mark the historic milestone. Michelle Dwan and her team organised a number of afternoon teas in the dormitory which were hugely special and very well supported.
The Butler of Ormond crest which has just been uncovered at Holy Cross Abbey, after it went ‘missing’ for about 50 years
On 5th October 2024 the celebrations continued with “Whispers of the Abbey”. This was a stage presentation of the stories, folklore and history of the 800 year old Abbey. That event was a tremendous success. John Bourke hosted a 3D talk on the carvings of the Abbey by Caimin O’Brien on 26th October.
This gave a unique insight into the thinking behind some of the carvings. A bust of Willie Hayes, who was the inspiration behind the restoration, was unveiled on the occasion of a Mass for the First Anniversary of his death on 8th December last. The limestone bust by Philip Quinn now stands on the green area west of the Abbey where it and the bronze bust of Archbishop Morris frame the west gable.
At the behest of Fr. Celsus Tierney PP a pop-up cafe was organised by Claire Ryan-O’Keeffe to raise funds for charity. Along with donations this raised €5,000 for the Dillon Quirke Foundation.
Next to come was a photographic exhibition entitled “Holycross Through a Lens – A Village, An Abbey and Its People”. This took place on 8th 9th March last. It was another great success though of too short a duration. It was while Claire Ryan-O’Keeffe was sifting through hundreds of photos for the exhibition that Tom Gallagher pointed out to her an old photo of the cloister area which pictured a carved limestone crest of the Butlers of Ormond. They were the patrons of the Abbey in the early 1400’s. The plaque is estimated to be 600 years-old but it has been missing for the best part of 50 years. Efforts to locate it had proven fruitless.
By coincidence, the next day Claire came across another photo in the Willie Hayes’ collection. This showed the Butler crest positioned at the corner of the reading cloister at right angles and beside the O’Chongail plaque. The location of the latter is well known. That corner of the reading cloister was clad in timber so with the permission of Fr. Tierney PP, Seamus Crosse and his team began removing the timber on 25th March, 2025. As the timber came away there for all to see was the Butler plaque in all its glory. Claire later declared that the finding of the carving of the Butler crest was “the Jubilee Jackpot” for her. The plaque can now be viewed high up on the left before you enter the main door of the renowned Abbey. Thanks to Claire’s alert detective work this is a wonderful discovery in this Jubilee Year of celebration.
The celebrations will continue with an Abbey quiz on Easter Sunday for families, with an easter egg for all. Being planned too are two screen presentations – one of an old film highlighting the restoration 50 years ago. To accompany this there will be new footage showing the changes in the village since then. At a date to be decided there will be a viewing of interviews of people associated with the care and restoration of the abbey. This set of old videos is being edited and organised for screen at present.
The film and “Voices of the Abbey” videos will be screened later in the year to celebrate the workers who made history happen.
A tribute to the late Formula 1 team boss and legend Eddie Jordan
The sad news of the passing of F1 legend Eddie Jordan on Thursday, 20th March sent shockwaves across the world. Eddie passed away at the age of 76 after battling with an aggressive form of prostate cancer.
The sad news of the passing of F1 legend Eddie Jordan on Thursday, 20th March 20th sent shockwaves across the world. Eddie passed away at the age of 76 after battling with an aggressive form of prostate cancer.
Born in Dublin, Eddie Jordan had a keen interest in motorsport and climbed his way up the ranks as a recognized race car driver. This passion for driving would ultimately take him to limits beyond his wildest dreams. It was Eddie’s enthusiasm, passion, and energy that drove him to success and a F1 winning title with his F1 Jordan Racing team.
Eddie first raced in the Irish Kart championship in the 70s and 80s in a variety of categories such as Formula Ford in 1974, Formula 3 in 1979 under the name ‘’Team Ireland’’, and Formula 2 race where he was involved in testing for McLaren.
Eddie also raced a BMW M1 in the 24-hours of Le Mans which is an endurance-focused sports car race – a race which is really designed for the elite of motor sport.
Eddie Jordan had a great reputation for giving budding race car drivers a career start with his F1 team, and in 1991 Eddie founded Jordan Grand Prix with 7Up serving as the team’s title sponsor, in this year he famously gave F1 Racing legend Michael Schumacher his F1 debut.
Eddie was determined to reach success in F1 and in 1998 he achieved just that when the Jordan Team drivers Damon Hill and Ralf Schumacher finished 1st and 2nd at the Belgian Grand Prix. This achievement for the Irishman was simply amazing and the scenes after the race of Eddie Jordan dancing with joy sums up the character he was, determined, energetic, and full of life. It was a well-deserved victory for the Jordan team who were up against all the heavyweights in F1.
The Jordan F1 Team cars of the late 90s featured yellow livery and various graphics including a Hornet on the nosecone of the cars, other images included sharks and snakes. The Hornet became the most famous and most used image on the race cars and team race suits and the name the Buzzin Hornets became a familiar name in F1.
During that era the Jordan EJ10 which had the Buzzin Hornet graphics was powered by a V10 Mugen-Honda engine and produced in excess of 770BHP!! and could reach speeds over 200mph. The F1 car was built using a full carbon fibre chassis and was running Bridgestone tyres on OZ rims.
On 14th August, 1999 the Buzzin Hornet Jordan F1 car made a visit to Nenagh to Sean and Mary McCullough’s, Nenagh First Stop Quickfit Garage on Ormond St. Sean and Mary both big Formula 1 fans added that they were delighted to be able to bring the car to their garage in Nenagh with the help of Bridgestone Ireland, where the people of Nenagh could enjoy and see the amazing F1 winning car. The F1 Buzzin Hornet car would make a second visit to Nenagh First Stop Quickfit Garage on 5th October the following year in 2000 to mark a successful year in Business for Sean and Mary McCullough’s First Stop Quickfit Garage.
I think it is amazing to have this connection to the great Jordan F1 team that has since been sold and rebranded as Aston Martin.
Although Eddie himself was not present when the car was been showcased in the shiny new Nenagh First Stop Quickfit garage at the time, I feel his presence could be felt in the bright yellow Buzzin Hornet as it sat there in all its glory in the garage on Ormond Street, it was indeed a very special occasion.
A very young Brendan Murphy was present for the second visit of the Jordan F1 car in October 2000 and I recall there was quite a crowd present on the day. Little did I know that 20 years on, and almost to the day I would become manager of the same garage under new ownership. I spent three and a half years managing the busy tyre depot in the garage where Eddie Jordan’s EJ10 F1 car made two special appearances.
The photos of the famous visitor remain on the walls of the waiting room of the garage which is now called Modern Tyres – formerly Nenagh First Stop Quickfit.
As the F1 legend is laid to rest it is good to look back on the memories of some of the best days in F1, and to cherish this amazing connection that Nenagh has with Eddie Jordan and the Buzzin Hornet F1 Car.
At the 30th anniversary of the New Inn Women’s Group: Marie Bergin, Mary O’Connor, Breda Culleton, Caroline Hally, Carmel Leonard, Mary Frances Barron, Diana Hall, and Anne Ryan.
On Sunday, March 30th, the elegant Chez Hans Restaurant, Cashel was transformed into a red-carpet venue as the New Inn Women’s Group gathered to commemorate its 30th anniversary.
The evening was filled with glamour, laughter, and heartfelt memories as members reflected on the group’s rich history and the contributions of past members.
At the 30th anniversary of the New Inn Women’s Group is the committee, from left: Marie Bergin Sec., Mary Frances Barron Treasurer and Breda Culleton Chairperson.
Attendees enjoyed a delightful evening of fine dining and engaging conversations, celebrating not only the successes of the past but also looking forward to the future of the organisation.
With a commitment to fostering community and friendship, the New Inn Women’s Group is poised for many more years of memorable celebrations.
Here’s to the next thirty years!
Pictured at the 30th anniversary of the New Inn Women’s group Back Row, from left to right: Mary Shanahan, Breda Delahunty, Jean Moloney, Caroline Ryan, Ciara Rooney, Alice Walsh, Carmel Leonard, Catherine Leamy, Mary Hyland, Margaret Barron, Janett Blair, Martina McDonnell, Caitlin Fitzgerald, Bernie Quinn, Marie O’Dwyer and Teresa Shanahan. Middle Row: Tricia Wilson, Helen O’Rourke, Bernie Barnaville, Diana Hall, Mary Flynn, Anne Ryan, Mary O’Donnell, Helen Hally, Mary O’Connor, Anne Shanahan, Anne Maher, Esther Boland, Julie Tobin, Gretta Shortall and Mary Peters. Front row: Bridget O’Neill, Carmel Cooney, Mary Frances Barron, Breda Culleton, Helen Fitzgerald, Marie Bergin, Caroline Hally and Dolly Ryan.
Padel is the new game taking Ireland by storm, and a small but successful Tipperary tennis club is planning to lead the way in bringing it to Tipperary, in the same way they brought tennis to their rural community nearly half a century ago.
Sarah Ann O’Connor, Daniel Devitt, Cllr. Liam Browne, and Noel O’Connor, viewing plans for the new Padel Courts at Fort Aenghus, Rosegreen.
Similar to tennis, Padel utilises a smaller court, but crucially side and back walls, to give its competitors a fat paced, energetic workout, while also being a very social game, generally played in doubles. And that’s what the hard-working ambitious committee at Fort Aenghus tennis club wants to showcase.
The club once bustled throughout the evenings with players from around the Rosegreen, New Inn, Golden areas, producing some excellent players, but went into a hiatus when the newer style combi courts took over from the concrete offered at the Racecourse.
The nearby club in Cashel, Larkspur Park did some huge development in recent years, and are now one of the top clubs in Munster, but that left Fort Aenghus in a quandary, to either innovate or disappear. And disappearing wasn’t an option.
So, instead they employed former top level tennis player Robert Cummins to come up with an idea, and he came back to them with the idea of Padel courts. Smaller than traditional tennis courts, the club hopes to fit three covered courts, which will cater for up to 12 people at a time.
It will also give players in Cashel and New Inn the option to play a different game, but still support Fort Aenghus. And last Thursday evening, at the clubhouse, the committee had an information night where they showed off their plans prior to seeking planning permission for redevelopment at the club.
Once permission is given, they will then pursue a fundraising effort, and will no doubt be successful in this, given their past record of determination when they have a task that needs to be completed.
On 13th March, CBS High School Clonmel held its inaugural SciFest STEM Fair. It was fitting to showcase present students’ work as the school proudly celebrates 125 years in educating young boys from Clonmel and surrounding areas.
Transition Year students, with the help of their Science teachers, spent months producing wonderful projects for display to fellow students as well as students from local Primary Schools and neighbouring Secondary Schools in Clonmel.
Junior STEM Club members and Senior Leaving Certificate Agricultural Science students also submitted projects to the judging panel.
Award winners pictured at the Awards Ceremony at the Clonmel High School STEM Fair
Sample works included investigations into the following areas: The Use of AI in Sustainable Intensification in a Dairy Enterprise; Be-Leaf in ACRES. A Study into Maximising ACRES Payments for Grassland Farmers; The Impact of a Change from Urea to Protected Urea on Grass Production; What’s Better for a Student’s Health – Playing Video Games Indoors with Friends or Playing Sports Outside?; The Effects of Sleep on the Body; An Investigation into the Success of the Deposit Return Scheme and Bamboo versus Ash Hurley Investigation, to name but a few.
The day started with a welcome address by Deputy Principal, Ms. Amy Walsh followed by students Arnav Lidge (6th year), Jamie Walsh (Transition Year) and Alan Ghali (1st year) sharing their experiences of STEM in the High School
Mary Condon and John Geoghegan (former High School Science Teachers), Michael Murphy TD, Michael Pettit (Restaurateur and Entrepreneur) – both former students, Alan Dunne, (SciFest Liaison Officer) and Francise Fenton (Boston Scientific), had a huge task in selecting winners due the the incredibly high standard. The outstanding projects were awarded prizes, sponsored by Scifest, the Irish Maths Teachers Association (IMTA) and Con Traas (The Apple Farm, Moorstown).
Ryan Murphy and Jamie Walsh pictured showcasing their project ‘’Protein Consumption in Young People
Visitors to the school along with present students enjoyed many activities in the hall such as Maths, Technology, Chess, Engineering, Green Schools and Calmast stands. Puzzles, Quizzes and Competitions were scattered around the exhibition with a Scavenger Hunt proving a hit with the younger visitors on the day.
Ms Steenson, Principal, High School announced the winners at the end of the day and expressed her huge gratitude and appreciation to Ms Coughlan (Maths Teacher) and Ms Rowe (Science Teacher) for all their hard work and dedication to STEM in the school.
The Scifest Best Project Award was awarded to Michael Bates, Cian Flaherty and Jamie O’Keefe (6th year). Their project explored ‘’The Use of Artificial Insemination in Sustainable Intensification in a Dairy Enterprise’’. Their results indicated that milk from AI conceived cows results in a higher yield, more milk solids, less bacteria and less mastitis.
Transition Year students Rhythm Gupta and Rafay Iftikhar won the Eirgrid Award for the Self Watering Plant System that they developed
The IMTA Best Project was awarded to Milo McNamera and Cillian O’Brien (6th year) who investigated ‘’The Impact of a Change from Urea to Protected Urea on Grass Production’’. The boys discovered that protected urea which is better for the environment produced a better yield of grass when compared to standard urea.
The Scifest Runner Up Best Project was awarded to Oran Sheehan (6th year) for ‘’Be-Leaf in ACRES’’. A Study into Maximising ACRES Payments for Grassland Farmers The TY Project Winner was awarded to Jamie Walsh and Ryan Murphy who explored ‘’Protein Consumption in young people’’.
The Mallinckrodt STEM Excellence Award was presented to Shane Howe and Alan Ghali (1st year) who built and tested a magnetic engine.
Peter Boland (6th Year), who investigated The Use of Min-Till Methods to Improve Earthworm Population, Soil Structure, Organic Matter and Weed Cover, received The SciFest Innovation Award.
The IMTA Junior Project Winner was presented to Akshatam Guptha and Yug Godhani (1st & 2nd Year) who investigated the worrying levels of sugar in Monster Energy Drinks. Sam Normile, Ronan Fox and Aidan White (TY) were the recipients of the IMTA Best Communicator Award.
The IMTA Innovation Award was presented to Djamal Souag, Sean Doverman and Ryan Gutherie who investigated the Application of Fine Motor Skills, Eirgrid Award was presented to Rafay Iftikhar and Rhythm Guptha (TY) for a Self Watering Plant System they developed, while Keenan Scully and Josh Kelly TY were voted by the students for the Student Choice Award.
The judges from left to right : Alan Dunne, John Geoghegan, Michael Pettit, Franchise Fenton, Mary Condon and Deputy Michael Murphy, TD.
As the CBS High School proudly celebrates 125 years, it continues to excel in teaching the STEM subjects. With a strong teaching commitment to innovation, the school ensures students are provided with cutting-edge resources, expert knowledge, and hands-on learning experiences in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths.
The dedicated teachers foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills. By embracing advancements in technology and curriculum development, CBS High School ensures that its students are well-equipped to meet the challenges of the future, reinforcing its legacy of academic excellence.
As the school looks forward to the next 125 years, it is clear that CBS High School Clonmel remains a hub of inspiration, fostering curiosity and cultivating the next generation of thinkers and innovators. Already the teachers and staff are looking forward to next year’s SciFest STEM Fair!
Please note that Shareridge Construction intend to close the L-3279 Rathronan to Clashaniska Road, Clonmel. The closure, approved by Tipperary County Council, extends from 08:00 on Tuesday, 22nd April 22nd to 18:00 on Tuesday, 19th August, 2025.
The main purpose of the closure is to carry out water main installation works and to ensure the safety of the public, motorists, and their workforce.
Details of the temporary road closure are illustrated in the attached map, including diversion routes. Pedestrian access will be maintained throughout the works
An online briefing for representatives of the business community in Clonmel will take place on Thursday, 3rd April from 6.30 -7.30pm when Shareridge will provide a further update on the project and associated works.
This online briefing will take place in advance of an in-person community briefing to be held in The Talbot Hotel on Monday, 7th April from 6.30 to 8.30pm.
Uisce Éireann is progressing works to improve the security and resilience of the water supply in Clonmel The project represents a multi-million-euro investment in water infrastructure and will have many benefits for Clonmel and surrounding areas including a safer and more resilient water supply, as well as strategic infrastructure to support current and future growth and development in the area.
Shareridge is delivering the works on behalf of Uisce Éireann and the overall project is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.
Works involve an upgrade to the treatment facilities at Monroe Water Treatment Plant (WTP); the installation of 15km of new water mains, as well as upgrades to the Rathronan Pump Station which will connect the Monroe supply to the Clonmel North Reservoir and Poulavanogue network. It will address water quality risks for customers on the town’s Poulavanogue supply.
Areas of work will be limited to short sections to minimise impact on customers. To deliver the works safely and efficiently, traffic management will be required.
This information will be shared with local stakeholders and the community. Local and emergency traffic will always be maintained.
The works may involve some short-term water interruptions and the project team will ensure that customers are given a minimum of 48 hours’ notice prior to any planned water interruptions.
Children from two classes at St Oliver’s National School in Clonmel were treated to a rare experience of running on the track with local athletics hero Seán Tobin (Clonmel A.C.) at the TUS Regional Sports Hub.
The track gathering at TUS was to celebrate The Daily Mile – the 15-minutes-a-day programme promoted by Athletics Ireland.
Sean Tobin Clonmel A C warming up the pupils from St Olivers N S before going on a run at the TUS sports campus in Clonmel for the launch of The Daily Mile
Seán, who recently won the national 3,000m title at the 123.ie National Track & Field Championships in Abbotstown in Dublin, was delighted to talk and run with the children from the school that he once attended.
“It was lovely to join with the children who were participating in The Daily Mile and it was really nice to be able to give something back to the primary school that I attended all those years ago,” Seán said.
This was a special track visit for the children from St Oliver’s who were accompanied by school principal Valerie Slattery and teachers Mrs Whelan, Mrs Fitzgerald and Mr O’Dwyer.
“As part of our Wellness Initiatives this year, some of the children took part in this event for The Daily Mile at TUS, “ Valerie Slattery said. “The children had an absolutely fantastic time during the warming-up and running activities.
Sean Tobin Clonmel A c, Patrick Davoren TUS Campus, Frank Greally Irish Runner magazine and John Phelan Irish international and teachers and pupils from St Olivers N s at the launch of The Daily Mile
“They were especially privileged to be mentored by Seán Tobin. The children were also fascinated to learn that Sean also won the Antarctic Ice Marathon in 2022.
“Both Seán and Frank Greally, Athletics Ireland Ambassador for The Daily Mile, delivered motivational talks, sharing their personal experiences and insights into the world of athletics.
They both encouraged the children to work hard and aim high in all areas of life. The students left the event feeling inspired and more determined than ever to pursue their goals.
“As a past pupil of our school, Seán Tobin is an ongoing inspiration and his great success and positive and professional attitude motivates our children to pursue excellence in athletics and life. Patrick Davoren, TUS Sports Facility Coordinator, said.
Sean Tobin Clonmel A C warming up the pupils from St Olivers N S before going on a run at the TUS sports campus in Clonmel for the launch of The Daily Mile
“Athletics is all about grassroots. That is where Sean Tobin’s highly successful athletics career began when he attended St Oliver’s N.S. By encouraging children and families to enjoy the facilities here at TUS Regional Sports Hub, we will create a healthier society and also discover some athletics stars of the future.”
The IMC/TUS Track & Field Meet takes place on the track on Saturday, May 3rd and the meet includes a special hammer and shot put competition dedicated to the memory of the legendary Olympic Hammer Thrower, Dr Pat O’Callaghan. Special Guest will be multiple national hammer throw champion and Olympian Nicola Tuthill (Bandon AC). There will also be male and female track events at 400m, 800m, 1500m and 3000m
There will also be a Special Event featuring The Daily Mile and an invitation has gone out to all primary schools in the Clonmel and Carrick on Suir area to encourage children to participate in this non- competitive event.
This award-winning bilingual production reimagines opera for the digital age. With a VR headset, explore a stunning animated world where you can move, interact, and choose your own path through an immersive and evocative experience.
Out of the Ordinary/As an nGnách tells the tale of a community forced to flee their barren homeland, which, due to their own actions, can no longer sustain them.
Nalva, our main character, builds a boat to take her people on an epic journey to find a new home. But as they begin their voyage, they don’t realise they are being pursued.
Daol, a powerful force of nature, furious at being released from the leached soil, churns up the seas and causes a huge storm, plunging the boat underwater.
When Nalva and her people eventually resurface, they find themselves in a new and unfamiliar land. Will they learn to live in harmony with nature, or will they repeat the mistakes of the past? It’s all to play for.
Written by composer Finola Merivale and librettist Jody O’Neill. Directed by Jo Mangan with communities from Inis Meáin, Tallaght and South Dublin. Sung in Irish and English.
Advance tickets for all shows are available online at www.thesourceartscentre.ie – or by phone from the Box office on 0504 90204.
Thursday 10th and Friday 11th April | Fee: €10 I Running time: 30 minutes approx. I Strictly Limited numbers to each session
National Broadband Plan connection underway at Hollyford.
Over 2,100 Tipperary homes, businesses and farms near Hollyford can now connect to fibre broadband on NBI™ network and almost 23,400 premises in Co Tipperary can avail of a high-speed connection.
National Broadband Ireland (NBI), the company delivering the new future-proofed, high-speed Fibre-to-the-Home network under the National Broadband Plan (NBP) on behalf of the Government, has said that over 2,100 Tipperary properties in its Hollyford deployment area can now avail of a high-speed fibre broadband connection.
The area covers the rural communities of Clonoulty, Moyaliff and Upperchurch. In total 31,000 premises in Co Tipperary are included in the State’s Intervention Area, which will see NBI deliver minimum speeds of 500 megabits per second to homes, businesses, farms, and schools.
As the biggest investment in rural Ireland since rural electrification, Co Tipperary will receive €118M of Government investment under the National Broadband Plan.
There are 2,106 Tipperary premises in the Hollyford deployment area that can join the NBI™ network. National Broadband Ireland is calling on people living nearby to visit nbi.ie/map/ and enter their Eircode to see if they are ready to connect.
Network build works are also continuing across Tipperary with build works in progress for over 2,800 premises near the Templemore deployment area, due to be connected by autumn this year.
Works have already been completed in other parts of Tipperary, including the rural surrounds of Clonmel, Cashel and Tipperary town.
There is a total of 23,352 premises that can now pre-order or order high-speed, reliable broadband across the county with 7,133 connections made so far. Signing up to the NBI email notifications at https://nbi.ie/eoi/
Thurles Musical Society presents the hit show Hot Mikado in the Premier Hall, Thurles from Tuesday evening next, March 25th – Saturday 29th inclusive with the curtain rising each evening at 8:00pm.
Twenty-five years after the Society staged the same show, winning the Best Overall Show award at the annual Association of Irish Musical Society Awards (AIMS), Hot Mikado makes a welcome return to Thurles. And, remarkably, there are five members of that 2000 cast on stage again this year – Mary Callanan, Nina Scott, Trisha McElgunn, John Butler, and Noel Dundon – with many more working in various capacities with this latest production.
Director, Oliver Hurley; Musical Director, Mary Rose McNally; Dance Captain, Siobhan King; Stage Manager, Anthony Kirby; Stage Director, Rita Callanan and the hard working committee have been very busy putting the many elements in place for the staging of the show. However, the vast bulk of the work is being undertaken by those on stage and their commitment to bringing a top show to the stage has been exemplary.
Rehearsals have been plentiful and energetic as the cast and chorus get up to speed with the wonderful musical score, the lyrics and of course all the choreography associated with this show which has been highly acclaimed as an up-tempo, swinging take on the original Gilbert and Sullivan classic The Mikado.
Thurles boasts a very strong front line with new talent mingling with many established faces from down the years. The main male parts of KoKo (Conor McNeilis) and Nanki Poo (Mark O’Gorman) are making their Thurles debuts, while David McElgunn stars as The Mikado, Frank Tuohy plays Poo Bah, and Ben Collins is Pish Tush.
The ladies front line is also very accomplished with the experienced Linda Ryan as Katisha, Marie Therese Kirby as Yum Yum alongside her two other Little Maids – Danielle Martin (Pitti Sing) and Denise King (Peep Bo).
The Thurles Musical Society chorus is renowned and this year is no different with a very strong chorus line supporting the main role players superbly.
The entire company is looking forward to performing their first ever show with the new tiered seating in the Premier Hall.
TMS purchased and installed the tiered seating last summer, at considerable expense, in order to improve viewing and to guarantee a greatly enhanced theatre experience for patrons attending all shows in the Premier Hall. This investment has had a transformative effect and has resulted in bringing the downstairs audience far closer to the stage. See what you think.
Tickets costing €25 for Hot Mikado can be purchased through www.GR8events.ie or at Bookwork, Liberty Square, Thurles at appointed times.
Some tickets will also be available at the door prior to each performance. Please note, tickets for the opening night performance are at the reduced rate of €20.
So, book your tickets now and come along to the Premier Hall for a marvellous theatrical experience.
A book titled ‘Aspects of Industrial Development’ by Denis G. Marnane, was launched at the Tipperary Excel recently.
Published by Tipperary Town Revitalisation, the book is in memory of the late Tom O’Halloran and is being sold for €10, with proceeds to Tipperary Community Services and St. Vincent’s Day Care Centre. In the preface of the book, Dr. Marnane says that it is not a history of industrial development in Tipperary town and district.
“Each of the industries associated with the town, past and present, could have its own full-length study. Perhaps this brief discussion of ‘aspects’ of industrial development in the 20th century may prompt someone in search of a thesis topic, to examine at length one or more of these industries. The Co-Op has been the subject of a book but as ‘Aspects’ makes clear, there is a deal more to be told” says Dr. Marnane.
Main Street, Tipperary town, 1960’
The book is divided into three parts. Part One, which is titled ‘Killing Home Rule with Kindness’, looks at occupations in the town in 1911 and the nature of ‘industrial’ employment in 1911. It goes on to look at Butter and Gloves with Cleeve’s and the Co-Op creamery and Fownes glove manufacturing.
There is a photo of the Cleeve’s workers from the early 20th century along with an image of an early advertisement for Fownes Gloves.
Part Two of the book is titled ‘What the Free State Did Not Do’. This section looks at the broad background factors that underpinned economic decisions in the 1920’s and then discusses how Tipperary town was impacted.
June 1936, Opening of Tipperary Glove Factory and Irish Floor Coverings, with Minister Seán T. Lemass, management, local dignitaries and local clergy.
“Tipperary town having been involved more than any other town in the county, and indeed more than most towns in the country in the revolutionary period, went through the 1920’s greatly disadvantaged. Various factors may be identified”.
This section has a photo of P.L. Ryan, who was Chairman of the Co-Op and also Chairman of Tipperary South Riding County Council, and detail on the Condensed Milk Company of Ireland, the Dairy Disposal Company and Tipperary Co-Op.
Part Three of the book is titled ‘A Debt Forgotten’. In the first part of this discussion about industrial and the lack thereof in Tipperary town, the bleak situation in the 1920’s was made clear. Here we read about Canon John Hayes (or Fr. Hayes as he was at that time) and the allotment scheme. The ages, occupations and circumstances of some members of the 4th Battalion, 3rd Tipperary Brigade, 1930’s are listed.
Some of Cleeve’s workers, early 20th century
The section goes on the look at ‘A Change of Government’ in 1932 and the election of Dan Breen. The influence of Fr. Hayes is again evident here with a public meeting in January 1936, with Hayes stressing the need for the town to ‘sell itself’.
There is a photo of the opening of the Tipperary Glove Factory and Irish Floor Coverings in June 1936 with Minister Seán T. Lemass and a detailed section on Gloves, Milk and Good Days and Bad.
In that final section there is a look at some of the industries that came and went in the town including Tambrands, Atari and Mass Mutual.
The final section also has a photo of Tipperary town in the 1960’s and a copy of some advertisements for local companies.
The book is a very fine publication and is available at the Tipperary Excel and at a number of local outlets.
Presentation Thurles was top of the pile at the National Musical Theatre Awards at a ceremony, which was held in the Fairview Hotel in Dundalk last week.
The school which has been staging an annual musical for many decades was thrilled and delighted when it was confirmed that seven of the cast members and three of the teachers from the very successful ‘The Sound of Music’ production were nominated for awards across twelve different categories.
And, the entire school community was even more thrilled when it was announced that they won eleven awards on the night: Áine Devitt (6th Year) won Best Vocal Female and Best Acting Female; Eve Ryan Dundon (5th Year) won a silver award for Best Acting Female; Elle Mason (5th Year) won Best Female Acting Co-Star; Nicole Ely (6th Year) won bronze for Best Female Acting Co-Star; the cast won Best Acting Ensemble and Best Comedy Ensemble; and they won silver for Best Set Design (David McElgunn, Clancy Construction, John Hurley & Gerry Taylor); the schools Music teachers Mr Patrick Conlon and Ms Bríd Wallace won bronze for Best Vocal Coaches; and last, but certainly not least, Ms Patricia McElgunn won silver for Best Director.
“We are beyond proud of our cast and production team and we are grateful that all of the talent, dedication and hard work has been recognised at a national level. Congratulations to all nominees – we are very proud of you all,” the school said this week.
These sentiments were echoed by many others during the week who extended their congratulations to all the award winners and to the school. The annual productions are always of the highest quality and there is much anticipation already as to what musical might be chosen for the 2026 production.
The Abbey School, an Edmund Rice School, in Tipperary Town, has always strived to promote an ethos based upon inclusivity and education for all.
The Abbey School’s Tearmainn classroom staff members pictured at the recent Official Opening.
In September 2023, a special class for students, with an autism diagnosis, was established to provide a structured and supportive environment for students. This allows those students to have access to mainstream classes in a manner suited to each individual student.
The purpose built Outdoor Sensory area at The Abbey
The provision of Special Education Support is well established in The Abbey School. The Board of Management of the school acknowledges the support offered by the Department of Education in providing two well-equipped spacious areas for students, and also for training and advice which was provided by the National Council for Special Education.
The school recently celebrated the Official Opening of these ‘Tearmainn’ classrooms with the significance of the name being sanctuary ‘as Gaeilge’. The ‘Tearmainn’ classrooms are designed to be sensory-friendly environments with an additional outdoor space, and are a great addition to the campus of The Abbey School.
The educational provision in the ‘Tearmainn’ classroom is supported by teachers who have engaged in continuous professional development, gaining skills which allow them to create an inclusive and supportive setting, which fosters learning, independence and social growth for students in the class.
The teaching staff are supported in their role by an SNA team who assist the students in accessing the curriculum both within and beyond the special class.
The overall management of the classes is the responsibility of the SEN Coordinator Kay O’Dwyer, a key professional, who oversees the provision and support for all students in the school with Special Educational needs.
Principal David Sadlier has welcomed the development. “This development is very positive for the entire school community and has provided insight and understanding around barriers to accessing education across the entire school” said Mr. Sadlier.
The opening of a second ‘Tearmainn’ class was recently sanctioned and places are available.
Further information can be obtained by contacting the school office on 062-52299 or info@abbeyschool.ie.
McKeogh Gallagher Ryan, a Xeinadin company, are pleased to announce the promotions of Bernard Liston, Karen Seymour and Padraig McKeogh to Senior Manager all based in our Nenagh office.
Speaking of the promotions Audit Partner William Lomasney stated: “Bernard, Karen and Padraig are key members of the management team in Nenagh and these promotions acknowledge their hard work and invaluable contributions to the firm. They each bring a wealth of experience and technical expertise to their roles and I look forward to working closely with them as we grow and develop our team here in Nenagh.”
McKeogh Gallagher Ryan, a Xeinadin company, are pleased to announce the promotions of Bernard Liston, Karen Seymour and Padraig McKeogh to Senior Manager all based in our Nenagh office. Speaking of the promotions Audit Partner William Lomasney stated: “Bernard, Karen and Padraig are key members of the management team in Nenagh and these promotions acknowledge their hard work and invaluable contributions to the firm.” From left, Bernard Liston, Padraig McKeogh, Karen Seymour & William Lomasney. Photo: Odhran Ducie
Karen Seymour is from Carney outside Nenagh, now living in Templemore. She is a first-class honours graduate of the South East Technological University | Waterford (formerly WIT) and a Fellow of the ACCA. She trained in financial management and outsourcing with Mazars in Dublin, then worked as financial accountant with Fianna Fáil before joining Quinlan Holohan in 2015, before the firm merged with McKeogh Gallagher Ryan. Karen manages the firm’s Traders Division in Nenagh, with a specialised focus on the audits of charities, companies limited by guarantee, hotels and co-operatives. She also works with our sole trader clients and audit exempt companies across various sectors providing accounting, tax and corporate secretarial services. She also oversees the running of our payroll division.
Padraig McKeogh is from Ballina, Co Tipperary. He is a graduate of the Technological University of the Shannon: Thurles Campus (formerly the Tipperary Institute) and is a fellow of the ACCA. He trained with Brophy and Co. in Dublin before moving to Grant Thornton in Limerick as an Audit Senior being promoted to Assistant Manager. Padraig joined McKeogh Gallagher Ryan in 2020 and specialises in audit and advisory services across a wide variety of industries including agricultural, construction, co-operative societies, credit unions, financial services, insurance, property and retail sectors. He also manages our Traders Division which primarily includes Co-Operatives, Credit Unions, Charities (CLGs), and Audit / Audit – Exempt Companies.
Bernard Liston is based in Cappamore, Co. Limerick. He is an honours Bachelor of Commerce graduate from the University of Galway and a Fellow of Chartered Accountants Ireland. He trained with BDO in Limerick and thereafter worked with David O’Donnell & Associates, Quinlan Holohan and as a sole practitioner. He returned to Quinlan Holohan in 2015 before it merged with McKeogh Gallagher Ryan, as head of the Farming & Agri Division. Bernard’s current portfolio of clients comprises sole traders, partnerships, and companies in the farming/agri and other SME sectors. His areas of expertise, in conjunction with our tax department, are tax planning, and succession matters for farmers. He also focuses on tax compliance work for solicitors in probate and conveyancing cases.
McKeogh Gallagher Ryan, are a firm of accountants in the Mid-West region operating from offices in Nenagh, Co Tipperary, Limerick City, and Ennis Co. Clare and. Established in 2012 the firm has nearly 70 accounting and tax professionals and works with clients across the country. Nenagh-based Quinlan Holohan & Co. Chartered Accountants merged with McKeogh Gallagher Ryan in May 2017. Established in 1977, Quinlan Holohan was the leading firm of accountants and advisors in Tipperary, with a particular specialism advising credit unions and agri cooperatives.
McKeogh Gallagher Ryan became part of Xeinadin in 2023, which is now in the Top 10 of accounting and tax firms in Ireland and the UK. In 2024 Xeinadin announced it would earmark €40 million for investment into Ireland as it expands its footprint here with a core focus on taxation and business advisory services and audit for SMEs across Ireland.
Joining Xeinadin represented a good fit for McKeogh Gallagher Ryan as it is similarly focussed on delivering for the SME market. It means the firm has an expanded service offering and can now offer clients and staff enhanced personal business support, access to cutting edge technology and a digital first focus, so relevant for clients in the modern age.
New life to iconic building in Tipperary town centre
Arachas Insures Ireland officially opened their new offices at the Irish House, 62-63 Main Street, Tipperary town on Thursday March 13th.
There are 25 staff employed at the Irish House, with plans to increase staffing to 30 in the next year. The company also employs 20 staff in Limerick and has expanded it’s Mid West Region with 6 staff employed in Offaly.
Mr. Jonathan Brown cutting the ribbon at the Official Opening of Arachas Insurance at the Irish House, Tipp Town.
The business is leasing the entire ground floor of the Irish House covering 2500 sq. feet which is supplemented by a private meeting rooms and two board room. In its previous life the building was a Vocational School from 1935 – 1978, and subsequently became a Coffee Shop and tourist destination under the care of Noel and Alice McInerney.
The floors overhead have been leased by Focus Ireland and provide 6 apartments for social housing. The entire building is owned by Abercorn Developments led by Donnacha Cleary, who also redeveloped the former Glove Factory Building on James Street, which again provides apartments for social housing. Jonathan Brown, Chief Commercial Officer with Arachas performed the official opening of the building on Thursday. Speaking at the opening Jonathan began by saying how great a pleasure it was for him to be present on the day.
At the opening of Arachas Insurance new offices in Tipp Town were; Jonathan Brown, Chief Commercial Officer and Daniel Hennessy, Regional Director.
“I have heard a lot about the positivity that the opening of this office has brought to the community. It is wonderful to see Arachas in Tipperary Town and to know that Arachas is committed to Tipperary Town and to our local communities. That is a huge part of what Arachas is and stands for. I have heard a little about this building and that it has been here for a number of years underutilised. It is great to see the way it is kitted out in a modern working environment and we are very proud of that fact. Arachas is Ireland’s largest fastest growing nationwide insurance broker, but that doesn’t mean that we aren’t committed locally.
Daniel Hennessy and Jonathan Brown in conversation prior to the Official Opening of the new Tipp Town Offices at The Irish House.
“We are delighted to be here to support Dan (Hennessy) as a Regional Director for the Mid-West and in terms of growing out our footprint in the Mid-West. Our ability to serve customers; personal, car, home, business, farm, whatever it might be, that is key to us and key to the success of us. Probably what we are most proud of is the people, the people in this office. The people in this office have come from different businesses. Some have come from O’Donoghue Hooper Dolan and some have come from Tom Fogarty Insurance Brokers.
“Both of theses have been acquisitions by Arachas over the last couple of years. Some people have come in more recently and have joined Arachas as it has been. Those people the 20 plus people that are now based here in this office, serving the local community, are the people we are most proud of. Arachas has a commitment to excellence in service. We like to innovate our own products, we want to bring new things and add value to people for it.
“Clients are the lifeblood of our business, without our clients we aren’t anything. For every single one of our customers out there, across the whole market, across the local area and beyond, we are delighted that you continue to trust in Arachas. The promises that are made by the people in this room to you, in terms of service, in terms of commitment, that is what is really key for us all being a success as we go over the next number of years” concluded Mr. Brown.
Seán Óg Ó hAilpín, Brand Ambassador for Arachas Insurance with Gearóid Fitzgerald, MD Southern Regions at the Official Opening of the Tipp Town Office at The Irish House.
Daniel Hennessy, Regional Director for the Mid-West Region also spoke at the occasion and began by talking about the insurance history in the town.
Insurance has been sold in Tipperary town since the 1960’s. This just didn’t start in recent days, it is a long standing process over 50 years. Tom Fogarty handed his business over to his son Michael and John and Anne O’Donoghue developed their business through Hooper Dolan, which was managed by John Quirke, and both businesses are now a huge part of what we are doing here at Arachas.
We want to recognise the impact that you both have made to Tipperary town and to thank you for your service over the last 50 years. It is really exciting to be launching Arachas here in The Irish House. When it was first suggested that The Irish House might be available for rent, I did not want to look at any other building. It has worked out far better than I could have imagined and it is a really nice building to work in. Being part of Arachas and part of the Ardonagh Group means that there is a huge suite of products that we can provide to the local area and 25 professional staff that will look after you here.
Catherine Fogarty from Tipp Mid West Radio interviews Daniel Hennessy at the Official Opening of Arachas Insurance.
I want to thank Donncha Cleary from Abercorn Construction and your foreman Kevin for delivering this project to Tipperary town and Albert from Vision who worked on the cosmetic side of the project. You can see the wonderful way that the project has been completed and also the finishings. The Abercorn and Vision staff worked so closely together and that is evident from the finished product. The IT team also deserve special mention as we weren’t out of action for more than 20 minutes the day we were moving, which is a great tribute to how quickly they went about their work. Andrea, our head of Business Support with Arachas, without your input we wouldn’t have been able to deliver the project.
Jonathan and the Executive Management Team gave us the investment and the backing for this great project in Tipperary town, and backed us in Tipperary town from the outset. They believed in us and gave us the investment that we needed so our thanks to them for that support. I also want to mention Gearóid, our Managing Director in the South, Una and Mark in the Marketing Team and our Brand Ambassador Seán Óg Ó hAilpín” concluded Mr. Hennessy.
Congratulations and best wishes to Arachas on the opening of The Irish House and to Abercorn Construction on a wonderfully finished building. A great tribute to the high level of workmanship involved.
Incidentally I was delighted to have the opportunity to have a chat with Seán Óg Ó hAilpín, who was present for the opening.
Our discussion mainly centered around hurling (hardly surprising!), with Seán Óg telling me how impressed he is with the Tipperary SH Team!
Good to see the Cork man expressing confidence in the men from the Premier.
Talbot Hotel, Clonmel from Friday, 28th March to Sunday, 30th March
The 62nd Clonmel Bridge Congress will be held in the Talbot Hotel Poppyfields Clonmel from Friday, 28th March to Sunday, 30th March 2025. The Congress will host events for all grades from Novice to Master level.
The 2025 Congress Committee are as follows. Standing from left to right: Anthony O’Reilly, Tony Lonergan, Mary Horne, Willie Corby, Shula McCarthy. Seated from left to right: Carol Moore (Hon. Secretary), Ann Nolan (President) Tom O’Donnell (Hon. Treasurer), Catherine Lonergan (Assistant treasurer). Missing from photo are committee members Dolores O’Donnell and Helen Power.
Clonmel Bridge Congress was founded in 1963. The first Chairperson was Miss. Nellie Darmody, the first President was Alderman Denis Burke. The Congress has gone from strength to strength with a slight hiccup during covid.
The Bridge Congress is made up of representatives of the bridge clubs in Clonmel, and is the only congress held in County Tipperary. This prestigious event attracts bridge players from all over Ireland. New friendships have been forged at Bridge Congress’s and new friendships will be made again this year in Clonmel.
Great tribute must be made to outgoing President Dolores O’Donnell who joined the Congress committee in the 1970’s and held various roles before taking up the position as President of the Congress from 1996 until 2024. Dolores was a most efficient President who will be greatly missed but are pleased she will remain on the committee.
Enquiries re events to Ann Nolan 086 0366888 or Carol Moore 085 1849198.
Tipperary Education and Training Board (ETB) has secured €150,000 in State funding to support the establishment of a Local Creative Youth Partnership (LCYP) for the county.
Tipperary ETB has been notified of its successful application to the Department of Education, under its Creative Youth Plan 2023-2027, to secure funding for the creation of a Local Creative Youth Partnership (LCYP), which will create greater access for children and young people to creative opportunities in the county.
Members of the Tipperary ETB Youth Work Team, joined by actor and guest speaker Shane Casey, at the ‘Pinnacle of Youth – Celebrating Compassionate Leadership Conference’, hosted at the Anner Hotel in 2024. (L to R) Lorraine Duane, Youth Development Officer; Shane Casey; Lisa McGrath, Youth Officer; Pauline Mogen, Youth Officer.
LCYPs are networks which allow for information sharing and collaboration between the ETB, local authorities, the non-formal education sector, family support services and youth services.
They also allow for the formation of new partnerships and relationships with the local creative sector. A key element to the work of the LCYP will be putting children and young people at the heart of developing and implementing opportunities to engage with creative activities.
The Tipperary LCYP will include representation from a wide range of local organisations across the statutory, community and voluntary sectors, that have a remit for the arts, culture and/or creativity, and that work with children and young people.
In its successful application, Tipperary ETB’s Youth Work Team said, ‘the context for Tipperary LCYP spans the remits of statutory, professional, creative, community and voluntary organisations.’
Lorraine Duane, Youth Development Officer for Tipperary ETB Youth Work Team, welcomed the investment by the Department: “Members for Tipperary span all sectors, united by the shared understanding that creative activities support us to lead healthier and more connected lives.
“The initiatives developed and fostered by Tipperary LCYP will enable more children and young people to follow their interests, be supported to better understand themselves, and make healthy life choices.
“Tipperary ETB would like to thank the partners that have agreed to support the development of an LCYP in Tipperary to ensure that creative endeavours are accessed by seldom heard communities in the county.”
LCYPs are an initiative led and funded by the Department of Education and Youth, and are also supported by the Department of Children, Disability and Equality, and the Department of Arts, Media, Communications, Culture and Sport.
This development means Tipperary ETB will join seven other ETBs in having an LCYP and the sustained expansion of LCYPs is one of the actions included in the Creative Youth Plan 2023 – 2027.
This plan has a vision for, ‘an Ireland where creativity is at the heart of children and young peoples’ lives, where creativity can contribute greatly to their happiness, wellbeing and personal development and, in recognition of their right to a voice in decision-making, children and young people will be heard and will inform all aspects of this work.’
Tipp Echo Partners with Platinum Events for Exclusive Concert Ticket Giveaway
Talbot Hotel Clonmel, Friday 4th April 2025 Bagatelle & Friends – Celebrating the Legacy of Liam Reilly Ticket Price 3 Course Dinner & Concert Ticket: €67 Dinner Time: 6.30pm Ticket Price Concert Only: €32 Doors: 8.30pm Show Time: 9pm Tickets Available: From Hotel Reception on a cash only basis
In an exciting collaboration, Tipp Echo has joined forces with Platinum Events to offer music lovers an extraordinary opportunity to attend the much-anticipated Bagatelle & Friends concert at the Talbot Hotel on Friday, April 4th.
This partnership will give away two free tickets every week for the next three weeks, creating an excellent chance for fans to experience a night filled with nostalgia and captivating live performances.
Bagatelle, a band that has maintained a cherished place in the hearts of Irish music fans since the late 1970s, is celebrated for their timeless hits such as “Second Violin,” “Leeson Street Lady,” and “Summer in Dublin.” Their rich musical history and ability to resonate with audiences have made them a staple in the Irish music scene.
The upcoming concert is set to be an unforgettable evening where fans can revel in both classic favorites and newer material, creating a perfect blend of old and new.
The concert will take place at the Talbot Hotel, a venue known for its vibrant atmosphere and excellent acoustics, enhancing the overall experience for attendees.
Doors will open at 8.30 PM, allowing guests to settle in and enjoy the ambiance before the show, which kicks off at 9 PM.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to their music, this concert promises to deliver an exhilarating performance that will have everyone singing along.
To enter the ticket giveaway, interested individuals can simply email competition@tippecho.ie and put Bagatelle in the subject line.
With only a limited number of tickets available, participants are encouraged to act quickly and stay tuned for the latest updates.
Don’t miss your chance to witness the magic of Bagatelle and Friends live at the Talbot Hotel this April. Grab your friends, enter the giveaway, and get ready for a night of memorable music and great company!
Standing from left to right: Jack Ryan, Tracy Hogan, Conor Horgan, Audrey Conway, Damien O’Keeffe, Ger Hyland. Sitting from left to right: Celine Scully, Michael O’Grady, Jim Healy, Rachel O’Gorman.
BUILDING on a strong 2024, Clonmel Credit Union is set to enhance its support for local businesses and communities in 2025, focusing on accessible finance for SME and Agri businesses.
As part of their strategy to support businesses in South Tipperary, Clonmel Credit Union organised a first-of-its-kind continuous professional development (CPD) event designed to reinforce the local economy. The first of these took place on Thursday, 13th March, at Hotel Minella in association with OmniPro and Connext Partners.
Jim Healy, Elsie Rafter, Des O’Callaghan.
SMEs drive the local economy in Tipperary According to the Central Statistics Office, SMEs or enterprises with fewer than 50 employees make up almost 70 per cent (69.49) of all businesses in Ireland. An analysis* of data ranked Tipperary third in Ireland for SMEs per capita. The number of SMEs in Tipperary amounts to 2,014 per 10,000 residents. The timely CPD event from Clonmel Credit Union offered insights and solutions to workplace challenges, including succession, planning, and tax, driving value and effective sales, and savings and tax tips.
Damien O’Keeffe, Clonmel Credit Union, Michelle Hogan, O’Gorman’s Brannigan, Purtill and Company with Guest speakers OmniPro co-founder Des O’Neill and Conor Grimes of Connext Partners.
The event saw over 70 Accountants gather for upskilling, networking, and gaining access to niche expertise. The event’s keynote speakers were John Murphy, a Partner of OmniPro Tax and Legal Limited and Connext Partners. John, a chartered tax adviser, advises clients on tax, company law, financial reporting, and auditing.
OmniPro co-founder Des O’Neill shared insight into adding business value during his address, underpinned by his background both in private practice and with one of the profession’s regulatory institutes. Conor Grimes of Connext Partners, a Fellow of Chartered Accountants Ireland, spoke about optimising the sales process.
Speaking on behalf of Clonmel Credit Union, Michael O’Grady, the newly appointed Head of Credit, commented, “We know SMEs are crucial to our community’s vitality and growth. We are committed to supporting them with accessible, value-driven lending and further education and development opportunities.
Event host Michael O’Grady, Head of Credit, Clonmel Credit Union.
We were delighted to host John, Des, and Conor, whose depth of knowledge and expertise provided invaluable insights to our members. Their practical advice and industry experience will make a lasting impression on the local businesses here today.
We take immense pride in the positive impact we have on local businesses and individuals across South Tipperary.”
Audrey Conway, Branch Manager with Guest Speaker, John Murphy Partner of OmniPro and Celine Scully, Business Development, Clonmel Credit Union
Clonmel Credit Union continues to prioritise SMEs and individual members, with plans to introduce a suite of new sustainability-focused financial products for both private and commercial members. See www.clonmelcu.com
The recent launch of the new HSE Health App gives Irish patients easy digital access to their health information and helps them navigate the health service more easily, a Fine Gael TD has said.
The app, launched by Fine Gael TD and Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill, is now available for download on Google Play and the App Store. Deputy Michael Murphy described the launch as “a game-changer in how people in Tipperary will engage with their health information, offering a seamless and secure way to access key health services and personal records at their fingertips.”
Key Features of the HSE Health App include:
Digital versions of Medical, GP, Drug Payment Scheme, and European Health Insurance Cards
Vaccination records – COVID-19 & Flu
Details of reimbursed medications and a safe place to store personal medication lists
Information on HSE services, including Emergency Departments and Injury Units
Health & Wellbeing resources, including easy access to the HSE’s health guides
Maternity service appointment access for expectant mothers
Speaking on the launch of the app, Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill emphasised: “This app is just the beginning. We are committed to expanding its capabilities to give people better access, control, and convenience in managing their health. By embracing technology, we are making healthcare more accessible for everyone.” Deputy Michael Murphy added: “The HSE Health App will continue improving, with ongoing updates in 2025. These will include access to public hospital and screening appointments for public patients, as well as new self-care tools for quitting smoking and managing chronic conditions.” The HSE Health App is free to download from the HSE website, Google Play, and the App Store by searching “HSE Health”. It is available in both Irish and English, with step-by-step guidance provided for easy setup. For further details, visit www.hse.ie.
Carrick-on-Suir Athletic Club has announced that it is open to new members who wish to try their hands at athletics. Training takes place on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 4 to 5 p.m. behind The Sean Kelly sports complex on Pill Road.
The club is in the later stages of organising their annual flag day which takes place this year on Saturday, 12th April.
Carrick-on-Suir AC members Sophie Foster and Laura Dowley who competed in Nenagh at the under 12/14 Munster championships.
On the competition side of things Sophie Foster and Laura Dowley were out last weekend in Nenagh at the under 12/14 Munster championships.
In the under 14, 60 metre hurdles Sophie reached the semi-final and missed out by the slimmest of margins (0.6 seconds) for a place in the final. Sophie also proudly represented the club in the under 16 hurdles.
Laura qualified for the final 8 in the under 14 shotputt out of a field of 20 competitors, throwing very close to her personal best in the process.She also represented the club in the girls under 14 long jump.
A great weekend for both girls who have a bright future in track and field and it’s only a matter of time before Munster titles come their way.
10% increase in burglaries, with 9,981 reported cases last year.
Labour’s Justice Spokesperson Alan Kelly TD has slammed the Government’s failure to tackle the rising levels of crime in communities across Ireland, following the publication of the latest Central Statistics Office (CSO) crime figures.
Deputy Kelly said: “Figures published today by the CSO highlight what Labour has been highlighting for some time—crime in our communities is rising, yet there has been no proactive response from the Minister for Justice.
“The saying is true—prevention is the best cure. It is clear that an increase in community policing is needed to tackle the rise in burglaries and related offences. Criminals are exploiting the lack of Garda presence, and ordinary people are paying the price.
“Meanwhile, trust between frontline Gardaí and the Office of the Garda Commissioner has broken down. The Minister cannot wash his hands of this crisis while communities experience rising crime rates. Our Gardaí are overstretched and under-resourced, yet the Government refuses to address the serious concerns raised by both Garda representatives and the public.
“The Minister must make a statement to the Dáil to outline to communities what this Government is doing to protect them this. People need action, not excuses.”
Final plans are being put in place for what promises to be a wonderful day of music, friendship, fundraising and craic on the streets around our town.
Changing the date of the annual parade was seen by some as a strange move but the committee, along with the brilliant people in Explore Carrick-on-Suir and the council have worked together to host a day that hopefully will live long in the memories of all who attend.
Entries through the QR code for the parade have come in quick and fast and the final touches on the festival aspect of the day are being ironed out.
A wonderful special “Strongman Competition” is being run by AJ Cronin in the festival area of the Town Hall Carpark and all proceeds from the event will go to Special Olympics Ireland.
Lar Corbett’s hurling wall will be in situ in the carpark also for all the aspiring young and not so young hurling enthusiasts to show off their skills.
The organisers are urging as many as possible to come along on the day and witness just what our brilliant town has to offer.
Every St Patrick’s Day Panduit Carrick Wheelers hold their past members’ memorial race.
The cup called The Carrick Wheelers C.C. Members Memorial Cup is dedicated to a past member who had served the club with distinction in the past. This year’s race will be run in memory of the late Pat Nugent, formerly of St John’s Terrace in the town.
The late Pat Nugent in whose memory this year’s St Patrick’s Day Cycle Race will be held.
Going back almost five decades Pat served as a motor bike marshal and a race lead car driver. In the 1980s Pat took the reins of the club in the role of team manager. With this role came the responsibility of getting the teams to their races, a role that thanks to Pat’s love of engines and high-powered cars always got the riders in place in plenty of time.
As well as team manager Pat also served as vice chairman and chief steward, both roles carried out with true dedication and a burning desire to see his beloved team prosper.
This year’s cup will be presented to the first rider past the finish line in the C2 category by Pat’s daughter Marie.
Pat’s long service to the club and in particular his dedication to the safety aspects around all the races hosted by the club have ensured his place in the annals of the team’s history and it is fitting that they remember him on this very special race day.
Many different outfits (and some very similar too!) were on display at Bunscoil Na Cathrach last Wednesday, 5th March to celebrate World Book day.
There was fantastic effort put in by many students to dress up as their favourite book character and there are obviously many avid readers among the students.
It’s great to see that book reading is still a favourite practice for so many. As usual most of the teachers also went to great lengths to dress up as book characters which caused many a giggle among the students and there was a great atmosphere in the school on the day.
Well done to everyone, what a great way to celebrate a wonderful hobby.
There was exciting news for the Ursuline Secondary School, Thurles from the Helix in Dublin where the Regional Finals of Junk Kouture 2025 took place.
Ursuline Thurles had two designs sent through to the National Finals. Entitled, Presence Pitch Player and Chrysalis, this is a fantastic achievement following on from the success of Vision Zero at the World Final recently where Tara, Caitlin and Christina scooped the Sustainable Development Goal accolade.
There is a lot of good work going on in recycling and upcycling items for reuse in fashion design and Thurles Ursulines are showing the way.
Congratulations to the team at Sherry Fitzgerald Gleeson based at Cathedral Street, Thurles who were awarded Countrywide Member of the Year 2025 at the Sherry Fitzgerald Conference in the Lyrath Estate Hotel in Kilkenny!
This is a huge achievement for the team, and they are very proud of the achievement. “It’s a testament to our dedication, hard work, and commitment to delivering the very best service to our clients and community.
A huge congrats also to our very own Eamon J Ryan who reached the final three out of hundreds in the Customer Service award.
A massive thank you to our incredible team, our loyal clients, and the wider Sherry FitzGerald network for their continued support. Here’s to another fantastic year ahead,” the Sherry Fitzgerald Gleeson team said this week.
IFA, CROÍ and the Department of Agriculture have presented the findings of the pilot Health Check Initiative which took place in Autumn 2024.
Minister for State at the Dept of Agriculture Michael Healy-Rae (second left) officially launched the report at the Cillín Hill Mart in Kilkenny, which was one of the locations that offered free health checks to farmers.
Minister for State at the Dept of Agriculture Michael Healy-Rae officially launched the report at the Cillín Hill Mart in Kilkenny, which was one of the locations that offered free health checks to farmers. The topline outcomes show that the pilot initiative exceeded its targets and identified that demand exists for a wider rollout of the service to rural communities.
Delivered over 1,200 health checks in 16 locations, exceeding the target by 22% Nearly 50% of participants presented with elevated blood pressure or cholesterol levels Farmers valued opportunities to discuss mental health concerns such as stress, anxiety and depression Farmers appreciated the convenience and accessibility of on-site health checks and related services. Among the recommendations are the establishment of a national Health Check Programme; a centralised digital platform offering continuous health education; expansion of holistic services; and a stakeholder forum to raise awareness of farming-related health issues and increased risk factors.
IFA Farm Family and Social Affairs Teresa Roche acknowledged the commitment that everybody gave to the project. “We had a short timeline to mobilise our network and get the message out. I would like to thank our partners in the Department of Agriculture and CROÍ for their support in raising the awareness among farmers of minding your health.” “The success of the Health Check programme was evident in the sheer demand. At some locations, queues extended beyond capacity. We can build on this momentum and develop ongoing preventative programmes,” she said.
Mark O’Donnell CEO of CROÍ said “The response to this pilot shows the real need for accessible health checks in rural communities. Cardiovascular health is key to overall well-being, yet many risk factors go unnoticed. With 80% of premature cardiovascular disease being preventable, early detection and early treatment is essential. The high rates of elevated blood pressure and cholesterol identified in this pilot highlight why regular heart health checks matter”.
“CROÍ is committed to working with our partners to expand this initiative so more farmers can access the checks and support they need to protect their heart health and overall well-being.”
A Nature-based Solutions project delivered by Tipperary County Council Carrick-on-Suir Municipal District and the local community, was recognised at the 2025 Business Post National Property Awards held at the InterContinental Hotel in Dublin last Thursday. This prestigious awards ceremony celebrates and champions both individuals and organisations from across the entire property industry through nominated categories.
At the 2025 Business Post National Property Awards held at the InterContinental Hotel in Dublin last Thursday were (from left to right): Eamonn O’Connell LAWPRO, Cllr. David Dunne Carrick on Suir Municipal District, Ben O’Keeffe Tipperary Co. Council, Tom Brennan LAWPRO, Margaret Keegan LAWPRO, Fintan Towey DHLGH, Fran Igoe LAWPRO.
The project, known as the “Bog Field Nature-based Solutions project” is located on the outskirts of the Carrick-on-Suir and is one of the first of its kind in the country. The project incorporates new thinking in the application of Nature-based Solutions and public amenity placemaking to provide a better environment for everyone including nature.
“By incorporating Nature-based Solutions such as swales and ponds, the project filters out pollutants from the adjacent road on the Waterford side of the town. The new Water Action Plan for Ireland strongly supports the use of Nature-based Solutions to protect water quality, biodiversity and provide greater resilience in the face of climate change challenges such as increased flood risk.
To do this and at the same time provide an attractive amenity supported by Tirlán is a credit to all involved. This area is adjacent to the River Suir which is a Special Area of Conservation with rare fish such as the Twaite shad and European smelt spawning locally in Carrick-on-Suir” said Dr. Fran Igoe, regional coordinator with LAWPRO.
The “Bog Field Nature-based Solutions project” located on the outskirts of the Carrick-on-Suir and one of the first of its kind in the country, was recognised at the 2025 Business Post National Property Awards held at the InterContinental Hotel in Dublin last Thursday.
The project delivered by Tipperary County Council and supported by LAWPRO and the Department of Housing Local Government and Heritage, is a community-based project working with the Carrick-on-Suir Lions Club, the Municipal District and Tirlán.
Fintan Towey Assistant Secretary Department of Housing Local Government and Heritage stated that “DHLGH are delighted to support this project which aims to assist in the protection of water quality in Carrick-on-Suir, providing multiple benefits for all to enjoy.”
Cllr David Dunne of Carrick-on-Suir Municipal District said that “The Bog Field in Carrickbeg had been unused and derelict and had also become a location for anti-social behaviour, with individuals lighting bonfires at the site. The completion of the Nature-based Solutions at the Bog Field has created an Amenity and Biodiversity area that can potentially be utilised by the community in Carrick-on-Suir now and long into the future”
Brian Beck Director of Services Carrick-on-Suir Municipal District stated that “The Bog Field project in Carrickbeg provides measures to improve water quality as well as managing water quantity during storm events. This project will benefit the local community and contribute towards the actions set out within Tipperary County Council’s Climate Action Plan 2024-2029. I would like to commend the staff within the Municipal District for the delivery of this worthwhile project.”
Commenting, Lynda Connor South-Eastern regional director at IFI, said “The River Suir is an important Special Area of Conservation (SAC) for twaite shad, salmon, and lamprey species. Inland Fisheries Ireland always welcome any improvements that protect and benefit fish and their habitats”.
Tipp Echo Partners with Platinum Events for Exclusive Concert Ticket Giveaway
In an exciting collaboration, Tipp Echo has joined forces with Platinum Events to offer music lovers an extraordinary opportunity to attend the much-anticipated Bagatelle & Friends concert at the Talbot Hotel on Friday, April 4th. This partnership will give away two free tickets every week for the next three weeks, creating an excellent chance for fans to experience a night filled with nostalgia and captivating live performances.
Bagatelle, a band that has maintained a cherished place in the hearts of Irish music fans since the late 1970s, is celebrated for their timeless hits such as “Second Violin,” “Leeson Street Lady,” and “Summer in Dublin.” Their rich musical history and ability to resonate with audiences have made them a staple in the Irish music scene. The upcoming concert is set to be an unforgettable evening where fans can revel in both classic favorites and newer material, creating a perfect blend of old and new. The concert will take place at the Talbot Hotel, a venue known for its vibrant atmosphere and excellent acoustics, enhancing the overall experience for attendees. Doors will open at 8.30 PM, allowing guests to settle in and enjoy the ambiance before the show, which kicks off at 9 PM. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to their music, this concert promises to deliver an exhilarating performance that will have everyone singing along. To enter the ticket giveaway, interested individuals can simply email competition@tippecho.ie and put Bagatelle in the subject line. With only a limited number of tickets available, participants are encouraged to act quickly and stay tuned for the latest updates. Don’t miss your chance to witness the magic of Bagatelle and Friends live at the Talbot Hotel this April. Grab your friends, enter the giveaway, and get ready for a night of memorable music and great company!
Every year on March 8, people around the globe come together to celebrate International Women’s Day, a day dedicated to honouring the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. This significant occasion serves not only to recognize the progress that has been made towards gender equality, but also to highlight the work that still needs to be done to ensure that all women can live free of discrimination and violence.
International Women’s Day has roots tracing back to the early 20th century, marked by the first official celebration in 1911 in countries such as Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland. The day has since evolved into a global movement, mobilizing millions to fight against the various barriers women face across different spheres of life. The United Nations officially began celebrating International Women’s Day in 1975, and it has continued to grow in significance, with a specific theme designated each year to guide the focus of discussions and actions.
The theme for 2025 is “Empowering Women, Empowering Humanity: Picture It!” This year, the campaign aims to encourage everyone to envision a future where gender equality is the norm. It’s a call to action for individuals, communities, and organizations to advocate for women’s rights and to actively challenge existing inequalities. This includes pushing for increased representation of women in leadership positions, promoting access to education and healthcare, and addressing issues such as gender-based violence and economic disparity.
One notable aspect of International Women’s Day is its emphasis on intersectionality—the understanding that different aspects of a person’s identity, including race, class, age, and sexual orientation, intersect to shape unique experiences of discrimination and privilege. As we celebrate this day, it is crucial to acknowledge the diverse struggles faced by women across different backgrounds and to amplify the voices of those who are often marginalized.
In many parts of the world, women continue to face significant challenges. According to recent statistics, women are still underrepresented in political and corporate leadership roles, earn less than their male counterparts for the same work, and are disproportionately affected by poverty and violence. It is imperative that we all engage in the dialogue and advocacy necessary to address these issues.
As we commemorate International Women’s Day, let it serve as a reminder of the importance of solidarity and collective action. Whether by participating in local events, raising awareness on social media, or supporting women-owned businesses, every effort counts. Together, we can pave the way for a more equitable future, honouring the strength and resilience of women everywhere.
The Cottage, Loughmore was delighted to welcome students from Coláiste Mhuire Co-Ed School, Thurles to the business this week.
Before arriving at The Cottage they enjoyed an educational farm walk in Templetuohy and had an appetite built up for some treats with the staff at The Cottage.
Staff members were impressed and very pleased that they were all interested in hearing about The Cottage story and about their special project with the local National School.
They listened intently to a presentation by School Principal Angela Dunne on the School Polytunnell Project whereby the school children grow vegetables and fruits for supply to The Cottage.
They were also treated to two songs by some children from Loughmore NS.
All in all, it was a most enjoyable afternoon and the hope is that some of these future farmers/entrepreneurs found the day informative and beneficial.
Bunscoil na Cathrach sixth class students Jack Joyce and Lexi Byrne with cheque that was presented to Irish Cancer Society representatives last week
On last Wednesday, February 26 representatives from the Irish Cancer Society visited the school. John O’Reilly, Breda Ryan and Alice Ward wanted to thank the sixth class students for donating the proceeds of their Christmas market amounting to €4,339.45 to the charity.
They acknowledged the tremendous work by the children in making the handmade products to sell at the market.
The teachers praised the children’s efforts and spoke highly of their commitment to the cause. John addressed the students and detailed the work that the charity undertakes.
The students would like to acknowledge the generosity of the school community in supporting such a worthy cause.
Independent Cashel Cllr Liam Browne stated this week, that unless persistent stone and rock throwing at vehicles around Wallers Lot and the M8 Motorway was addressed, there would eventually be a serious accident or a death caused, and authorities would have serious questions to answer.
Cllr Browne stated this in response to an e mail he and other councillors received from a local coach operator, after rocks hit one of their busses, which was carrying fifty secondary students and their teachers on the way home to Coláiste Dún Iascaigh last week. It was also in relation to repeated incidents of stones being thrown at cars and vans over the weekend.
Cllr Browne stated that “this in ongoing, and enough is enough. The cause of the problem, is a small number of young children from the Travelling Community living in Wallers Lot, who seem to believe that they can act with impunity, and have no fear of any consequences from either the Gardai, their parents or any other institutions. But it has to stop. Throwing rocks off the over pass onto the motorway, will eventually finish up in tragedy, and no amount of hand wringing will replace the loss of life if that’s what happens.”
He went on to say that “it’s not as if this is an isolated incident. It is ongoing, and has been for years. I passed a group of young children congregating outside Wallers Lot on Sunday afternoon, and knew within an hour, I would be getting calls about stone throwing.
Unfortunately, I was right, and the calls stated by mid afternoon. When will they end though, that is what the people of Cashel are asking”. Cllr Browne has called on the Gardai, state entities like Tusla, and the Traveller education and network groups to get together and stop this behaviour once and for all.
A HOUSE in the centre of the Old Bridge area of Clonmel, which has fallen into disrepair in recent years, has now been taken in charge by the Old Bridge Community Association who are developing an ambitious plan to transform it into a wonderful amenity for the community at large.
ABOVE: The vacant house at 22 Dungarvan Road, Old Bridge, which the Old Bridge Community Association plan to develop as a Community House over the coming years.
Last year Clonmel Borough District Council agreed to hand over the house, situated at 22 Dungarvan Road in the heart of the Old Bridge, to the highly-regarded and vastly experienced Community Association, under the chairmanship of Frank Fahey.
The house will be designated as a Community House which can be used by the Old Bridge community, and by the extended town folk of Clonmel.
In a poor state of repair presently, a fundraising campaign is now underway to raise the necessary finance to transform the building into a fantastic community amenity. With this in mind the Old Bridge Community Association are running a Golf Classic at Clonmel Golf Club on Friday, 6th June. Team of four €150.
The house unfortunately is in need of extensive renovations. and in wasting no time, a specially appointed committee, has set the wheels in motion to raise the necessary funds to renovate the building, located adjacent to the Motor Sales business and opposite Ely’s Centra Store.
One of the first fundraisers will be a Golf Classic at Clonmel Golf Club on Friday, 6th June, where a team of four will cost a very reasonable €150. Non-golfers will also have the opportunity to sponsor a teebox for €50. There will be a sensational prize on the day for a hole in one at the 17th hole. And in true ‘Bridge’ style, the evening will be put to bed in the Emigrant’s Rest that night.
When up and running as a Community House, the committee envisage that the premises can be used for activities such as coffee mornings, walking groups, Men’s Shed group, etc. And it is also planned to build a sensory garden adjacent.
The house will also be used by existing groups, such as unsung heroes like the Holy Year Cross Committee and the Edel Quinn Grotto Committee who perennially are a source of pride to Old Bridge, and to the town of Clonmel, such is the magnificent work they carry out on behalf of the community at large.
Other organisations such as the Skittles Club, the Old Bridge Soccer Club, the Christmas Tree committee also intend to avail of the facilities when completed.
A invite will be extended to the Little Blue Heroes along with all the children in the Old Bridge and Clonmel, to meet Santa there each December.
The progressive committee also plan to build an extension to the existing structure which will be used for two lots of showers, changing rooms and meeting rooms that will be used by the local Old Bridge FC at Green Lane, visiting clubs and match officials on the day.
The facility will also be open to hiking clubs, canoeing clubs, and the River Rescue, if and when the need arises.
So the drive is well and truly underway now for what in time will be a treasured amenity for the area. And don’t forget the Golf Classic – Friday, 6th June at Clonmel Golf Club!
As part of the ‘Love’s Fire Song’ exhibition photographer Enda Bowe presents a masterclass at The Source.
Enda Bowe, photographer, at The Source, 12th April
‘No man ever steps in the same river twice, because it is not the same river and he is not the same man’ – Heraclitus.
‘The Same River?’ Enda Bowe Photography Workshop focuses on seeing the special in the ordinary, the sometimes noticed or often forgotten things we see, live in, or walk by every day.
Enda will show a selection of slides of books and images that inspire him, a short video, take us through his work process and then talk with the group about their own work and ideas on photography.
Attendees will then have the opportunity to go out on the streets and take some shots of their own, with a review later. This is a great opportunity to get hands-on interaction with one of Ireland’s best photographers . Please bring a camera and some samples of your work.
Enda Bowe’s work has been exhibited in galleries and museums including Victoria & Albert Museum, London; Red Hook Gallery, New York; Gallery of Photography Ireland; the Douglas Hyde Gallery, Dublin; the National Portrait Gallery, London; Fotohof, Salzburg; The Visual Centre Of Contemporary Art, Ireland and most recently in The Other Side, Dortmunder U, Dortmund, Germany.
His collection of work At Mirrored River received the international Solas Photography Award 2015. He was nominated for the Prix Pictet Award 2016 and the Deutsche Borse Foundation Photography Prize 2016. In the UK, his work has been shortlisted for the National Gallery Portrait Prize for 2019 for Love’s Fire Song and was runner-up for the Taylor Wessing Portrait Prize in 2019. Bowe’s first monograph Kilburn Cherry was published by J&J Books and received the Birgit Skiold Artist Award 2014 from the Whitechapel Gallery, London.
In self-publishing his photobook At Mirrored River the artist was kindly supported by the Victoria & Albert Museum, Oscar nominated director Ken Loach and writer Colm Toibín. This book coincided with the exhibition of At Mirrored River at The Visual Centre of Contemporary Art, Ireland.
His third monograph This Thing I Want. I Know Not What, inspired by Carson McCuller’s novel The Heart Is a Lonely Hunter, was published by Paper Tiger Books in 2018. Bowe worked with Lenny Abrahamson on the acclaimed tv series Normal People.
Bowe was the winner of the National Gallery of Ireland Zurich Portrait Prize 2019. More info available online at www.thesourceartscentre.ie
Saturday 12th April | Fee: €80 I Spaces limited to 10 persons
The Irish Kidney Association is a charitable voluntary organisation founded in 1978. They are dedicated to meeting the needs of renal patients and their families and carers, living with and affected by end stage renal disease. These needs are spread across all aspects of life – medical, social and psychological.
The profile of the kidney patient ranges from infanthood to the elderly who are undergoing various methods of treatment – haemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis (both CAPD and APD) and kidney transplantation.
Kidney disease affects all age groups, both men and women. The reality of kidney disease is that it may impinge on many strands of a person’s life including: health, employment, education, social life and relationships, physical fitness and general well-being.
From valuable donations and fundraisers, they can provide services such as counselling, financial aid, the use of a patient support centre and patient holidays.
Alison McCarthy who will walk the distance from Tipp Town to Beaumont (190kms) for Irish Kidney Association
Alison (McCarthy) Fogarty from Tipperary town is doing a fundraising walk for the Irish Kidney Association. Alison will walk the distance from Tipperary Town to Beaumont Hospital where she underwent a successful Kidney Transplant over eight months ago.
For 30 years of her life Alison knew nothing only illness. As a child in Crumlin Hospital she was diagnosed with Bartter syndrome, which is a general term for a group of rare genetic disorders in which there are specific defects in kidney function. These defects impair the kidney’s ability to reabsorb salt and cause imbalances in various electrolyte and fluid concentrations in the body.
In 2005 Alison developed sever arthritic gout from her neck to her ankles and was in pain 365 days of the year. Flare-ups of symptoms like pain and swelling come and go in periods called gout attacks. In January 2015 she was told by her consultant that it would be inevitable that she would have to go on dialysis. In April Alison started her journey on peritoneal dialysis, which is a treatment for kidney failure that uses the lining of your abdomen, or belly, to filter your blood inside your body.
During peritoneal dialysis, a cleansing fluid flows through a tube into part of the stomach area, also called the abdomen. Six months after starting her dialysis Alison got her first call for a transplant. She subsequently had her transplant in Beaumont Hospital and all seemed well and she was left home after seven days.
A few days later and feeling unwell she returned to Beaumont for post transplant bloods and following an ultra sound discovered that she had a clot to the artery of the new kidney and unfortunately it had to be removed. She had to go on hemodialysis, where the blood is pumped through a filter, called a dialyzer. The recovery was huge and it took a couple of years before she went back on the donor list.
She subsequently had to return to hospital for a parathyroid removal and 2 weeks after returning home she again had to go to hospital with pneumonia and a collapsed lung followed by loss of mobility and severe weight loss. There were many occasions when it looked like Alison might not make it, but she fought to regain mobility and was eventually discharged home.
She was on dialysis for 10 hours at night and again during the day. At the end of 2023 she sought assistance from the Irish Kidney Association and she received great support, which was a great confidence boost to her.
She subsequently got the call from Beaumont for a transplant and on the second occasion everything went according to plan and the surgery was a great success.
From the 6th to the 13th of March Alison is doing a fundraiser for the Irish Kidney Association. She is walking the distance (190 kilometres) around her own area which is the distance from Tipperary to Beaumont.
On the final day 13th March, which is World Kidney Day, she will walk from Heuston Station to Beaumont Hospital as a tribute to her donor. Later that evening on her return from Dublin she will stop in Cashel and walk to the Rock of Cashel, where it will be lit in purple to mark World Kidney Day.
Anyone can donate to the fundraiser and every cent will go directly to the Irish Heart Foundation. The link to the fundraiser is as follows; https://www.idonate.ie/fundraiser/AlisonFogarty
2,053 in-patient bed-days saved for hospital since last July
A new Virtual Ward in University Hospital Limerick which uses technology to provide patient care at home has saved more than 2,000 inpatient bed days since its introduction last summer.
A total of 325 patients have been cared for at the Virtual Ward since July 1st, using technology to link them with UHL for monitoring two to three times daily – and in the process freeing up 2,053 bed-days for hospital treatment of more acutely ill inpatients.
Virtual Ward staff at UHL (from left): Christina Finnerty, Staff Officer; and Clinical Nurse Managers Linda Daffy (CNM3) and Jesna Jose (CNM2).
“For us, the Virtual Ward is about more than diverting patients away from the hospital—ultimately it’s about ensuring high quality care in your home, enabled by technology. This new model of care empowers our patients through increased knowledge about their health and self-management of their conditions,” said Patricia O’Gorman, Nurse and Midwifery Informatics Officer, who led the implementation of the Virtual Ward at UHL.
Patients referred from the hospital’s ED, Acute Medical Assessment Unit and medical wards receive a full technology kit, including a tablet and medical diagnostic equipment. At home, this equipment links the patient with a central hub in UHL, allowing for 24/7 monitoring. Average length of stay on the UHL Virtual Ward is 6.6 days.
For John Crowe, who lives just outside Tipperary town, approximately an hour’s drive from UHL, his recent experience of the Virtual Ward was a revelation. John, a haematology outpatient, experienced serious side-effects from medication prescribed for his treatment, with a risk of heart failure. Stabilised after a night in UHL for treatment and observation, John was deemed suitable for the Virtual Ward.
“When they told me that they would be able to monitor me from home rather than keep me in hospital, I thought it was fantastic, and my family wouldn’t have to worry about me being in hospital or having to travel in and out to visit. I was a bit concerned at first because I’d never used anything like this before. But my wife has better knowledge than I would of things computerised, so between the two of us, we were able to manage it.”
“Every morning and every evening, I’d use the tablet and the various devices linked to monitor my blood pressure, temperature, heart rate and so on. The Virtual Hub team always called me back to tell me everything was good. It was very reassuring. If there any slight issue at all, they’d call straight away and ask you to repeat it.”
“It was brilliant, so easy to use. If I had any worries, all I had to do was ring them and they would go through that monitoring process, and they could tell me what I needed to do, whether that was continued monitoring, or coming in, or needing an ambulance. Thankfully, it worked out well for me, and I was discharged from the Virtual Hub after a week.”
“A big thing was the reassurance for my wife and family. I have two sons locally, and one in Limerick, and I have brothers and a sister and they had the option to visit me at home, rather than in a hospital. It’s a great service, and it’s fantastic to know that it’s available here in the Mid West,” John said.
Cashel Community School prides itself on its sporting, musical and artistic prowess both locally and nationally, but it also has another string to its bow, when it comes to fashion, as once again it is one of a handful of schools who have qualified for the regional finals of fashion competition “Junk Kouture”.
Junk Kouture is a television fashion competition for post-primary school students, where participants design, create and model fashion, made from recycled items. The competition has run in Ireland, since it was founded in 2010, by Troy Armour.
The annual Grand Finale has been held in the 3Arena, Dublin since 2015. Junk Kouture is open to 12-19 year-olds and challenges young people to design, upcycle and create high end fashion from recycled materials. The local school has thrown itself into the competition pretty much right from the outset, and has created some fabulous fashion that have wowed local, regional and national judges.
In fact, some of the toughest competition the winners of the school event face, is within the school itself, as each vie for the right to go to the outside judges.
This year’s winning design is titled “No M-Alice in This Palace”, a modern take on the age old tale of Alice in Wonderland.
Designed and put together by Sarah Creed, Emma Hobbert and Alanna Manton, who are all transition year students at Cashel Community School, they hope that they can take what would be a deserved place in the Grand Finale, the national finals, which are held each year in the Three Arena and draw a huge supporting crowd.
This year’s winning design is titled “No M-Alice in This Palace”, a modern take on the age old tale of Alice in Wonderland. It was designed and put together by Sarah Creed, Emma Hobbert and Alanna Manton, who are all Transition Year students at Cashel Community School,
Pictured in the photograph on the presentation of a cheque for €6,639.65 to Suir Haven Cancer Support Centre are: were – Back row from left to right: Denis Quinn (Principal), Lisa McCarthy (Parents Council), Laura Cuneen, Katie Carr, Miriam Bergin (teachers), Clare Wallace (Deputy Principal), Councillor Micheál Lowry. Front row from left to right: Gary and Cormac Bannon, Anna Ryan and Mary Ryan Maher (Suir Haven Cancer Support Centre), Annie Donnelly and Michael Purcell (5th Year students).
The old Irish word ‘Meitheal’ was used to describe how neighbours fadó would come together to help each other out in saving the crops and with farming work.
The 5th year students of Coláiste Mhuire Co-Ed Thurles recently showed themselves to be a special group of young boys and girls as they stand alongside their colleague Cormac Bannon who is presently facing illness. Fifteen of the boys in a touching gesture of support shaved their heads in support of Cormac and this was subsequently followed by an ‘Ice Bucket Challenge’ where 30 members of staff agreed delightedly and bravely to take part! Ms. Bergin assisted the students in co-ordinating the event that raised an incredible €6,639.65 over just one week.
This was the result of a collaborative effort by our teachers, students, parents/guardians, school management and wider school community. On Cormac’s request, it was agreed that a cheque for this amount be given to a brilliant local Charity Suir Haven Cancer Support Centre, a vital resource for Cancer support. Everybody in the school community of Coláiste Mhuire Co-Ed wish Cormac the very best on his road to recovery.
For every 100 people that read this article, 20 people are going through a personal crisis, at least five people might have suicidal thoughts and at least one person may attempt to take their own life. This is not an attempt to scare anyone, these unfortunately are the facts.
‘’Our Mental Health is a state of well-being that enables people to cope with the stresses of life, realize their abilities, learn well and work well, and contribute to their communities.’’ – World Health Organisation Mental health affects everyone, and I think people can sometimes forget that. Life can be challenging and unpredictable and in truth none of us know from one day to the next when we might find ourselves in difficulty with our mental health. Financial pressures, anxiety, stress, job related pressures, the loss of a loved one and loneliness are just some of the day-to-day challenges that many of us face that can no doubt have a negative impact on our mental health. We all manage and cope in different ways and what might seem like a small issue for one person might mean a personal crisis for another, especially if that person is facing a combination of challenges altogether.
I think we can all relate to what might cause Mental Health distress. We are all familiar with the importance of raising awareness and because it is so common we understand the vital need for Mental Health services in our communities, yet our Mental Health Service is not fit for purpose. It is under-resourced and underfunded; in fact, our Mental Health Service is in crisis!
Tipperary has one of the highest rates of suicide per population, between 2019 and 2022, 83 people took their own lives. 70% of those were male. (CHO figures) In a recent Spotlight report the percentage of young people between the ages of 18-25 who have self-harmed rose from 21% to 38%. In addition to this the percentage of young people aged 19-25 who thought about taking their own life rose from 51% to 63%
These are worrying statistics as all the trends are on the increase, yet we are not seeing any significant plan from the Government to address what can only be described as a crisis. In 2021 we lost 449 people alone to suicide.
We have many great organisations, most of which are run by amazing volunteers but there is only so much that they can do. When people reach out to the state-run Mental Health services for help, they can be waiting a minimum of six months to see a counsellor. Can you imagine if you were in mental distress and needed help, how it would feel to be turned away? or told you must wait at least six months to talk to a counsellor?
There is no provision in place to cope with the demand that exists, the current system is not fit for purpose and as a result we are not addressing people’s mental health needs, people are falling through the gaps that exist and this needs to be addressed urgently. We are very fortunate to have three elected TDs in North Tipperary. I have contacted each of them individually to look at this important issue and to make it a priority during their tenure in Dáil Eireann not only for Tipperary but nationally as the Government needs to provide resources and funding for a state-run Mental Health service that is fit for purpose. Tipperary TDs respond with firm commitments
Ryan O’Meara, TD
“The provision of mental health supports and services in a major issue in North Tipperary. There are several charities in this space that are doing exceptional work to provide services for people in need, particularly during times of crisis. I am committed to raising the need for enhanced mental health services in North Tipperary and I will be raising this issue both in the Dáil and with the relevant Ministers for increased state funding for services in our area.” – Ryan O’Meara TD
Alan Kelly, TD
“We have a national crisis when it comes to mental health services. I have never seen the situation being so bad in two decades of public life. There needs to be a complete rethink on the issue and joined up processes across government departments, national bodies and local authorities. Many of the issues that arise for people can be alleviated somewhat if there is early intervention and people’s issues are flagged. However, there are not the services available to do this. There aren’t enough services from the HSE, and it’s left to voluntary bodies to try and get funding and qualified personnel to fill the gaps in HSE services. We also have a real issue in terms of the lack of qualified professionals in the area of Mental Health and this needs to be a priority for Government’’.
Michael Lowry, TD
“Sadly, at this time, many people are reaching crisis point before they can receive the support and assistance, they need for Mental Health issues.’’ The new Programme for Government includes a strong emphasis on Mental Health, in fact it is mentioned 33 times throughout the Programme document. The Programme cites Mental Health in the context of Voluntary and Community, the Mental Health Sector, Legislative Reform, National Clinical Programmes in Mental Health, Youth Mental Health, Mental Health in Older People. Suicide and Self Harm and Autism. ‘’Having had a direct input into the Programme for Government, I am committed to ensuring that a strong focus on all Mental Health issues remains to the fore throughout the lifetime of this Government.’’ ‘’People in Tipperary and across the country deserve nothing less.’’
Conclusion This is an issue that affects each and every one of us and I think it is essential in this day and age for the state to provide a mental health service that works, we have already fallen well below the standard of service that is required but if the Government take the correct action and approach and address this matter now it would be a huge step in the right direction. I commend the work that is currently being done by Mental health workers and voluntary groups throughout the country as I truly believe that their impact has been immense, but much more needs to be done in the area of Mental Health in Ireland as it is underfunded and under resourced. One life lost is one too many – Let’s hope this Government will lead the way and reform our Mental Health services in Ireland.
After more than 42 years of dedicated service, Rockwell College recently bid farewell to Gearoid O’Sullivan, who retired on Friday, 14th February, 2025.
Rockwell College Gearóid O’Sullivan
Gearoid’s journey at Rockwell College began in 1982 when he joined the Catering College as a Chef. His talent, commitment, and passion for his craft saw him appointed as Head Chef in 1993—a role he carried out with excellence until his well-earned retirement this month. More than just a skilled chef, Gearoid was a central figure in the Rockwell community. His loyalty and dedication to the school went far beyond the kitchen, as he built lasting relationships with staff and students alike. Known for his warmth and unwavering commitment, he took great pride in his work and in the people around him. Rockwell was more than just a workplace—it was home, and his presence will be deeply missed. Gearoid was pictured at his retirement party alongside Michael Doyle Senior, his colleague for 42 years and a lifelong friend beyond retirement. Their years working side by side reflect the strong sense of camaraderie and tradition that makes Rockwell College so special. The entire Rockwell College community is very grateful to Gearoid for his hard work, dedication, and the warmth he brought to the school. We wish Gearoid all the best as he embarks on this new chapter, and we express our sincere appreciation for his many years of service to Rockwell College.
€3,355,173 in funding will help bring vacant properties across Tipperary back into use, said a Fine Gael Deputy. Deputy Michael Murphy today (Tuesday) welcomed the news that €3,355,173 has been awarded in grants for the refurbishment of vacant properties across the county. “The vacant property refurbishment grant was introduced to help bring derelict properties back to life as affordable homes. “While Fine Gael is determined to increase the supply of new homes for people to buy, it is also vital that we get the best use of existing housing stock. That’s why the Government introduced funding to bring vacant and derelict properties back into use and make these an affordable option for those seeking to buy their own home. “The Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant has proven very successful since its launch with over 11,300 applications received and over 7,700 approved as at end of December 2024. Some 400 applications are being received monthly, with nationwide interest in the grant and applications being received across all local authorities. “By repurposing the buildings that we already have, we are boosting available accommodation whilst also rejuvenating the towns and urban centres we know and love. “In Tipperary, €3,355,173 in grants have been drawn down, which is a considerable increase since the scheme was established and I am expecting there to be a continued increase in the number of grants paid in 2025. “Fine Gael are committed to helping more people in Tipperary own their own home and increasing supply is key to achieving that. This grant helps bring buildings back into use and breathes new life into our communities”, concluded Deputy Michael Murphy.
Pictured from left to right: Mr Alie Muhammad; Mrs Bridget Wort; Mr P.J Ryan, K.M Sovereign Military Hospitaller Order of St John of Jerusalem and Malta; HE Mr. Mohammed; F Al Muhammad; Mr John Wort; Dr Michael Casey Fellow of the Irish State.
Last week members of the Durlas Eile Eliogarty Memorial Committee accompanied by Dr Michael Casey, Fellow of the Irish State were special guests of HE Mr Muhammed Al Muhammad Kuwait Ambassador to Ireland at the Kuwait National Day celebrating 63 years of Independence.
Kuwait gained Independence from Britain in June, 1961.The Kuwait flag consists of black, white, green and red representing Arab unity and heritage. Kuwait has one of the world’s oldest democratic parliaments in the Gulf Region. Kuwait has also one of the richest cultures in the middle east with a mix of modern and traditional influences. The famous Liberation Tower was built in 1966 to symbolise Kuwait’s freedom after the Gulf War.
Words of wisdom that Inspires Kuwait – “The progress of our country depends on the dedication and efforts of its people” – Sheikh Sabah Al – Ahmad Al Sabha.
“Our unity is our strength, and our traditions are our pride. A nations greatness is measured by the achievements of its people, not just its resources. We must preserve our heritage while embracing the future with open arms. The Kuwait fund for Arab Economic Development was the first institution in the Middle East to take an active role in the international development efforts. The fund extends grants and loans on concessionary terms to finance development projects in developing countries.
“Women In Kuwait have played a vital role in shaping the country’s progress, actively contributing to politics, resistance movements, arts and sport. Kuwait women gained the right to vote and run for office in 2005 and in 2009 four women were elected to the National Assembly. Today Kuwait women continue to excel as Ministers, business leaders, scientists and cultural icons, proving their essential role in the nations growth and success.”
It was a great learning experience for the Thurles delegation. HE Mr Muhammed Al Muhammad hospitality made them feel very much at home. He introduced the group to his son, Mr Alie Muhammad, who is a very pleasant young man studying Business in Westminster in London. The group had a great conversation with Alie in relation to education and the educational systems working in Thurles were explained to him in full. He was very impressed but sadly he wasn’t aware of what the Irish educational system had to offer- if he did he would probably have come to Thurles for his Business degrees.
The many young Asian girls attending in traditional dress were so wonderful and beautiful – all were very helpful explaining their history and culture which was so interesting.
Kuwait at one one time, was one of the poorest countries in the Middle East and is now one of the richest. Before the discovery of oil, their main source of income was their small fishing ships and wild birds. HE Mr Mohamad will visit Thurles and it will not be his last visit. He has shown great interest in St. Mary’s International Garden of Remembrance and for what it stands for – Peace, Remembrance and Reconciliation. It is a memorial garden that should inspire all going forward as members of Down District Council described it some years ago.
Sixty ambassadors, the Papal Nuncio and the Lord Mayor of Dublin attended on the day. The main hall in the Shelbourne Hotel from 1 to 4 pm was a hive of activity with young people at all the stalls of food, arts, sport, heritage, history and music to mention just a few.
The Durlas Eile Eliogarty Memorial Committee medal caught the eyes of many and the group had to explain to them what Durlas Eile Eliogarty Memorial Committee and St. Mary’s International Garden of Remembrance was all about. Mr John Ryan and Mr Pat Ryan who are associated with the Tipperary Person of the Year awards, were very impressed and expressed their wish to visit St. Mary’s International Garden of Remembrance and St. Mary’s Church – Dr Michael Casey will organise their visit in the coming months. The visitors got the opportunity to sample the traditional dress for men and women. The young ladies in the heritage section were very helpful in dressing up the group in their traditional costumes. The food on the day was so delicious, perfect in every way, and the service provided by the hotel staff was first class. Overall, the day was a great occasion for Ambassador Mohamad and the 63rd Anniversary of Independence for his country Kuwait. H.E Mr Mohammad has to be congratulated for a wonderful day of celebration.
H.E Mr Cleviston Haynes, Barbados Ambassador to Ireland; HE.Mr Lahcen Mahraoui, Morocco Ambassador to Ireland; and HE Mr Hassan Aljomae, Saudi Arabian Ambassador to Ireland will be visiting St Mary’s International Garden of Remembrance Thurles in the very near future. When they do come we hope that they will get a great Dúrlas welcome from all. Details of their visit will be made available nearer to their visit.
Dúrlas Éile Eliogarty Memorial Committee Vice-chairman Mr Guy Jones and his wife Christeen joined the event later on in the day.
South Under 21 A Football Championship Semi-Final:
FETHARD 3-11 KILSHEELAN/KILCASH 0-6
In perfect conditions for football at an unseasonably mild Monroe on Saturday afternoon, Fethard proved way too strong for Kilsheelan/Kilcash in the second semi-final of this year’s South Under 21 ‘A’ Football Championship.
‘The Blues’ dominated from the very first minute and were well and truly on their way to a divisional final meeting with Clonmel Commercials long before referee Declan Hickey sensibly called an early halt to proceedings after 55 minutes of play.
In truth, after a very unusual first half, the game was over as a contest by half-time with Fethard going to the break leading by 3-5 to 0-1. Those three first half goals, scored by John P. Lacy, Dara O’Mara and Charlie Hackett, helped Fethard to a 13-points half-time advantage, and there was simply no way back for a depleted and struggling Kilsheelan/Kilcash side thereafter.
Fethard’s Gavin Neville gets first run on Jack O’Donoghue (Kilsheelan/ Kilcash) during the South Tipperary U21 ‘A’ Football Championship Semi-Final at Monroe on Saturday last. Gavin was one of four Neville brothers to start for Fethard in the game.
It was a desperate situation for Kilsheelan from the outset having barely enough numbers to field a team at all, with the likes of Micheál Freaney, Billy O’Gorman and Oisin Lavin unavailable for selection. That drastic situation was further exacerbated during the course of the opening half when one of their players walked off the pitch, something you rarely experience at a GAA game.
For the second half, to get back up to 15 men, Kilsheelan/Kilcash reintroduced an earlier substituted – and clearly restricted – player, and by the end of a sorry day for them, were left with just 13 players on the field of play, because of injury, before the premature, but timely, termination was whistled.
But let all that take nothing from the Fethard victory which they achieved in a workmanlike manner, going about their business with intent right from the throw-in and a Mark Neville points after only 20 seconds.
Early pressure from the Tommy Sheehan managed side saw Kilsheelan goalkeeper Oisin O’Donoghue kept busy with a couple of good saves, but he was helpless in the eighth minute when Fethard’s first goal arrived. Jack Davey was very much involved in the build-up before John P. Lacy sent a piledriver low to the corner of the net for a 1-1 to 0-0 lead.
Fethard’s Charlie Hackett attempts to get by Jack Norris (Kilsheelan/ Kilcash) during the South Tipperary U21 ‘A’ Football Championship Semi-Final at Monroe on Saturday last.
It took Kilsheelan all of 13 minutes to register their first – and only – point of the opening half, Liam Freaney kicking a fine point high off his left leg from 30 metres out.
Another good save from Oisin O’Donoghue from a Liam Kiely shot resulted in a 45 for Fethard which Dara O’Mara sent high between the uprights in the 20th minute.
A situation then developed in which, having received a yellow card and then engaging in words with some Fethard supporters on the sideline, a Kilsheelan player removed his jersey and walked away. Within a minute, Fethard exploited the confusion and the extra space when Conor Neville set up Dara O’Mara for their second goal, the centre back driving the ball low into the corner of the Kilsheelan net.
At sixes-and-sevens now, Kilsheelan conceded a further 1-3 before the interval as Fethard took complete control.
In the 27th minute Conor Neville kicked an excellent point while in full flight, followed a minute later by a Matt Coen free won by the busy Liam Kiely. And almost from the kick-out the third Fethard goal of the half arrived, Charlie Hackett giving the Kilsheelan keeper no chance with a thundering shot after Michael O’Meara supplied the final pass.
In the last play of the half Conor Neville added another fine point on the run from 30 metres, again Liam Kiely instrumental in the build-up with a powerful run up the wing.
By half-time the proceedings had developed into a non-event, Fethard, all of 13 points to the good, would be facing Clonmel Commercials in the decider.
In numbers at least, Kilsheelan resumed the second half with 15 between the lines, but it was Fethard who resumed where they left off with an early Mark Neville free after a minute, Jack Davey’s hard work forcing the foul.
Credit to the Mark Stokes managed Kilsheelan side, they played on with pride in the jersey, and had a mini-purple patch with three unanswered points in between the 33rd and 37th minutes, from Liam Freaney, Tadgh McGuire and a Tommy O’Connor free. At this stage, Fethard led 3-6 to 0-4.
With the game over as a competitive contest, Conor Neville added his third point of the day for ‘The Blues’ in the 40th minute before Kilsheelan keeper Oisin O’Donoghue, with yet another fine save, denied Matt Coen a goal right on the three-quarters mark. No doubt, without the excellent performance of the Kilsheelan custodian the final winning margin would have been much greater.
The concluding stages of the game were academic only, Fethard outscoring Kilsheelan by four points to two in the shortened game.
Kilsheelan’s Tommy O’Connor had his second in the 46th minute before Kilsheelan team captain Conor Neville was forced off injured with no substitute available. And their numbers were back to just 13 when Senan Butler also had to withdraw.
Fethard then added three points in four minutes from Jack Davey, Matt Coen and Andrew Connorton to extend an ever-widening margin, Matt Coen’s white flag, in particular, a superb effort. They were reduced to 14 players in this period with a black card for Darragh Spillane.
Tadgh McGuire and Conor Neville added the final points for their respective teams before the message – if not the proverbial towel – came into the referee, enough was enough for one day.
No doubt, Fethard will arrive at the final as underdogs against three-in-a-row seeking – and current county champions – Clonmel Commercials. But, neither side will need reminding of what happened in the South Under 19 ‘A’ final last year, when ‘The Blues’ upset the formbook on that occasion.
Saturday was a proud day for Fethard with four Neville brothers all starting and playing their part – captain Shane, Mark, Conor and Gavin – the latter making way early with an Under 17 A final to play the following day against Commercials.
There was plenty to admire in the focus of the Fethard players with big performances on the day from Matt Coen, Liam Kiely, Andrew Connorton, Darragh Spillane, Charlie Hackett, Jack Davey, and Ben Allen who pulled off a decent save or two.
Kilsheelan were always going to be up against it even with a full-strength squad and their limited resources before and during made a bad situation worse. They will move on and put this one behind them quickly.
However, immense credit to all who soldiered on regardless with Oisin O’Donoghue, Liam Freaney, Tadgh McGuire, Tommy O’Connor, Jack O’Donoghue, Cian Roche, and Conor Neville giving it their all.
Kilsheelan/Kilcash:
Oisin O’Donoghue, Sean Norris, Conor Neville (capt), Aaron Costin, Jack O’Donoghue, Emmet Butler, Tadgh McGuire (0-2), Lucas Sheil, Liam Freaney (0-2), Cian Roche, Tommy O’Connor (0-2, 0-1F), Michael Bates, Luke Keyes, Mikey McGuire, Senan Butler.
Subs: Michael Ryan for Butler (1 mins); Senan Butler for Costin (half-time).
Fethard:
Ben Allen, Michael James Phelan, Shane Neville (capt), Michael O’Meara, Charlie Hackett (1-0), Dara O’Mara (1-1, 0-1×45), Liam Kiely, Darragh Spillane, Andrew Connorton (0-1), Jack Davey (0-1), Matt Coen (0-2, 0-1F), John P. Lacy (1-0), Mark Neville (0-2, 0-1F), Conor Neville (0-4), Gavin Neville.
Subs: Noah O’Flynn for G. Neville (20 mins); Charlie Walsh for Noah Flynn (40 mins).
Reigning county champions Clonmel Commercials had to overcome a dogged challenge from arch-rivals Moyle Rovers, which included extra-time, in a thoroughly entertaining South Under 21 A Football Championship Semi-Final played under floodlights at Duneske, Cahir, on Wednesday night.
Pictured prior to Wednesday night’s South Tipperary Under 21 A Football semi-final at Duneske, Cahir are captains Cian Smith (Clonmel Commercials) and Shane Ryan (Moyle Rovers) with referee Derek O’Mahoney.
Five points up at the interval, 0-11 to 1-3, after a commanding first 30 minutes, the town side looked well on their way to the final. However, a storming second half from Moyle Rovers, themselves county champions at Under 21 B last year, saw them equalise with a 62nd minute free from Dean English to force the game into extra-time, 0-16 to 2-10.
A minute into the opening period of extra-time Rovers took the lead for the first – and only – time with a point from counter-attacking corner-back Ronan Walsh. But having waited so long for that advantage it was mercilessly wiped clean within a mere 30 seconds with the game’s decisive score, a goal, from Peter McGarry who ran unopposed from midway to superbly ram the ball low into the corner of the Rovers’ net.
Commercials’ only other score in the first period of extra-time was their second goal, this time a penalty scored by Cian Smith. In a well-constructed build-up, Creed supplied the final pass to Darragh Landers who was hauled down by Rory Collins and from the resultant penalty, Smith’s left-footed rocket found the top corner of the net. The goal, with the last kick of the half, was a double whammy for Rovers as Collins’s black card effectively ruled him out for the entirety of the second period of extra-time.
In that second half of extra-time Commercials controlled matters, and while Dean English opened the scoring with a free, the Danny Madigan managed Commercials finished the game with the last three points, all coming from captain Cian Smith. Now seeking three-in-row of divisional titles at this grade, Clonmel Commercials advance to play either Kilsheelan/Kilcash or Fethard in the final.
A lively opening five minutes of play left Commercials 0-3 to 0-2 ahead. Peter McGarry and Alex Creed with points inside 90 seconds, answered by a Rory Collins free for Rovers from 45 metres. A powerful run through the middle by Michael Connellan set up Niall Deely for a point for Commercials, quickly replied to by a Dean English point after a great run in from the left wing by Cathal O’Gorman.
Killian Butler, who put in a massive game all evening for Rovers, levelled matters in the 10th minute, capitalising on a turnover around midfield to come through and point.
Commercials then hit a purple patch and over the next 12 minutes bossed matters and scored six points without reply from Joe Higgins (2, one free), Alex Creed (3, 1 mark) and Peter McGarry – Joe Higgins, Darragh O’Connor and Tadhg Sheehan getting on top around the middle during this period.
Just when things were beginning to slip for Rovers they bounced back with a goal, somewhat against the run of play, in the 22nd minute when a delivery into the goal area by Daire Luttrell was met by Harry O’Keeffe who got up highest to touch the ball home beyond the Commercials’ keeper.
Commercials responded well to that setback finishing the half with two excellent points, from Cian Smith, after a pin-point pass from Rory O’Dowd, and a trademark bombing counter-attacking point from corner-back Thomas Charles.
At the break Commercials were definitely in the driving seat five points up at 0-11 to 1-3.
The third quarter was pretty much tit-for-tat with Rovers reducing the deficit to just three points by the 45th minute.
Two early second half points for Moyle Rovers from Dean English and a Daire Luttrell mark, were checked by a Niall Deely 34th minute point for Commercials after a length-of-the-field move.
Hard-working corner-back Ronan Walsh was twice involved in a move for Rovers before finishing it with a deserved point in the 35th minute. But Commercials were responding well each time, Cian Smith getting free to score six minutes in, keeping his side 0-13 to 1-6 ahead.
Paddy O’Keeffe, while playing the advantage rule, saw a low drive just go on the wrong side of the upright, with Dean English tagging on the free. It was a warning that Rovers were very capable if given opportunities.
Declan Nee and Paddy O’Keeffe then traded points, and midway through the second half, Commercials were still three to the good at 0-14 to 1-8, and soon it was four after Cian Smith added a free off his trusty left.
Clonmel Commercials’s Peter McGarry and Alex Creed whose combined 1-10 helped their side defeat Moyle Rovers in the South U21A Football Championship semi-final.
Twelve minutes from time the game was right back in the melting pot when Paudie Ryan, not long on as a sub, goalled for the Rovers, after finishing off a fine move by burying Dean English’s final pass.
Fired up now, both sides attacked and defended as if their lives depended on it, space now at a real premium for forwards. Five minutes from time Peter McGarry burst through the line and edged his side two ahead with a good individual score.
But Rovers weren’t backing off their rivals and their spirit was best epitomised, not once but twice by the admirable determination of Killian Butler late on. Twice he shifted heavy tackles from Commercials players – the second resulting in a black card for Rory O’Dowd, before Butler himself, somewhat frustrated with his treatment, was black carded for a challenge on a Commercials player. In the closing minutes, both sides were playing with 14 men, which significantly, would carry over into extra-time.
With a minute of normal time remaining a Dean English free reduced the deficit to the minimum and the same player repeated the dose two minutes into added-time after Jake Forristal’s industry had won the free for Moyle Rovers.
At full-time the sides were inseparable at 0-16 to 2-6.
While Ronan Walsh, at the second bite of the cherry, kicked the lead point for Rovers in the first minute after the resumption, McGarry’s emphatic response for Commercials with that superb individual goal was crucial. The coup de grace arrived at the other end of the half, captain Cian Smith burying the penalty, and Rovers hopes when Rory Collins’ black card following.
Again at the start of the second period Rovers were first to score within a minute with another Dean English free but that was it for them, the last three scores of the game all by Cian Smith, one from play, a free and a mark.
Clonmel Commercials:
Shane Ryan, Ross Slattery, Mark Corcoran, Thomas Charles (0-1), Rory O’Dowd, Tadhg Sheehan, Michael Connellan, Darragh O’Connor, Joe Higgins (0-2, 0-1F), Oisin Forristal, Peter McGarry (1-3), Niall Deely (0-2), Alex Creed (0-5), Cian Smith (capt., 1-5, 0-1F), Declan Nix (0-1).
Subs: Darragh Landers for Forristal (40 mins); James Power for Nee (45 mins); Eoghan Walsh for Deely (30+2 mins); Declan Nee for Creed (in extra-time).
Moyle Rovers:
Peter Boland, Ronan Walsh (0-2), Liam Maher, Joseph Commins, Harry O’Keeffe (1-0), Shane Ryan (capt.), Cian O’Flaherty, Rory Collins (0-1), Killian Butler, Darragh Walsh, Paddy O’Keeffe (0-2), Cathal O’Gorman, Dean English (0-6, 0-4F), Jake Forristal, Daire Luttrell (0-1 mark).
Subs: Conor O’Gorman for Walsh (40 mins); Paudie Ryan (1-0) for Luttrell (43 mins); Cianan Power for Cathal O’Gorman; Cathal O’Gorman for O’Flaherty (in extra-time); Ben O’Donovan for Walsh (in extra-time);
FBD Insurance County Tipperary U19 A Football Championship Semi-Final:
CLONMEL COMMERCIALS 1-16 GOLDEN/KILFEACLE 1-7
Just four days after their seniors’ disappointing defeat in the county final, Clonmel Commercials were back in yet another county football decider after their under 19s defeated Golden/Kilfeacle by nine points at Páirc na nGael, New Inn on Thursday night last.
An opening first-quarter blitzkrieg in which they scored 1-7 without reply in 14 minutes ensured ultimate victory for the South Tipp side. By the time Keith Delahunty’s full-time whistle eventually sounded, they were well and truly home and hosed, the second half played in a continuous heavy downpour under the twilight zone of the New Inn lights.
For Commercials, last Thursday night’s semi-final came over five weeks after their facile divisional final win over Fethard at Duneske; for the county final, against JK Bracken’s of Templemore, they had to wait just three further days. Regardless of how the decider would pan out, it was hardly the fairest of preparations for any side attempting to win a county title.
Commercials had the proverbial dream start playing into the village end with a superbly-taken goal by Alex Creed in the second minute in which he gave the keeper no chance with a left footed effort from 12 metres out; Commercials’ captain Michael Connellan played a big part in the making of that early goal.
As if Creed’s goal made them believe, the Clonmel side wiped the floor with their opponents over the next quarter hour or so, the football itself rarely going beyond the half-way line as they added seven unanswered points, four from play and three frees.
Corner-forward Alex Creed, who has been flying all year in both codes for Commercials and The Mary’s, kicked a point from 30 metres in the fourth minute, quickly followed by another by colossus Joe Higgins powering through to finish a move that came up the middle of the park via Michael Connellan and Tadgh Sheehan.
And it was centre-forward Joe Higgins who made it 1-3 to 0-0 in the eighth minute with a fine point aided in its creation by midfielder Darragh O’Connor.
Growing in confidence, the Clonmel side were totally dominant at this stage and one feared the game was descending into a non-contest when they added three further points before the first quarter hour mark was reached, with Thomas Charles and two Alex Creed frees stretching the advantage to 10 points at 1-7 to 0-0.
Golden’s first shot at the goalposts arrived in the 15th minute, with a missed free, but credit to the Westerners they got to the pace of the game after that and had much the better of the remainder of the first half, outscoring Commercials by five points to one before half-time.
Their first point came in the 21st minute when the hard-working Aaron Cohohan obliged, and within a minute, having waited so long for any score, Eanna Ormord kicked a sweet point from distance to settle Golden/Kilfeacle even more.
Jamie O’Keeffe, who put in a good hour’s work for Commercials, replied in the 25th minute with a point, but the last three white flags of the opening half went to the White and Green jerseys, via Jack Bergin, and two late Sam Hall efforts from play.
At the interval the difference was back to six points, Commercials leading 1-8 to 0-5.
As the second half resumed the heavens opened and stayed that way for the entirety of the 30 minutes; full credit to both sets of players for a much more competitive second half in such atrocious conditions.
Commercials, with that bit more height and physicality about the centre, had the better of the opening minutes with full-forward Jack Lawlor and the bombing wing-back Thomas Charles stretching the lead inside the first five minutes.
Golden/Kilfeacle goalkeeper Tyler Barry made a great save in the 36th minute, diving low to his left to touch a goalbound effort around the post, even if Joe Higgins was to send the resultant 45 high over the black spot.
Jack Lawlor, with his second point since the resumption, a huge effort from 40 metres, made it 1-12 to 0-5 after 39 minutes, the game quickly ebbing from Golden/Kilfeacle once again as the pitch softened up even more in the deluge.
In almost a mirror image of the first half it took Golden until the 44th minute to score, Cian Lonergan pointing from 30 metres out. However, that reprieve was just a drop in the ocean as quickly Commercials responded with two of their own from Darragh O’Connor and Jamie O’Keeffe to stretch their advantage to 11 points, 1-14 to 0-6 with 14 minutes still to play.
Ten minutes from time, out of the blue, Golden/Kilfeacle had a somewhat bizarre goal when a waist-high harmless-looking free from 30 metres by Aaron Colohan went all the way to the net past a wall of forwards and backs. Their final score of the game arrived a minute later with a Sam Hall free.
However, Commercials finished the stronger with Thomas Charles and target man James Power adding good individual points before the welcome sound of the final whistle on a dirty wet and dark in New Inn.
Besides those already mentioned for Commercials, Billy Tierney, Matthew Ó Ceallagh and Alex McSharry were part of a mean Commercials defence, while Niall Deely and Mark Corcoran did plenty of spade work on a difficult night for football.
Excluding the forgetful first quarter, Golden/Kilfeacle matched the winners thereafter in terms of commitment and, indeed, scoring, but the damage was done at that stage and the horse bolted. To their credit they never threw in the towel and aside from those already mentioned the Daltons, the Tuohys, Cian Ryan and Lee Hayes tried hardest.
Clonmel Commercials:
Harry Ryan, Matthew Ó Ceallaigh, Michael Connellan, Alex McSharry, Thomas Charles (0-3), Tadgh Sheehan (capt), Billy Tierney, Darragh O’Connor (0-2), Mark Corcoran, Niall Deely, Joe Higgins (0-3, 0-1×45), Jamie O’Keeffe (0-2), Alex Creed (1-3, 0-2F), Jack Lawlor (0-2), James Power (0-1).
Subs: Max O’Dwyer for McSharry (50 mins), Darragh Landers for Connellan (50 mins), Cian McGrath for Ó Ceallagh (55 mins), Cillian McNamara for Creed (58 mins).
Golden/Kilfeacle:
Tyler Barry (capt), Cian Lonergan, Ciaran Byrne, Colin Tuohy, Jack Dalton, Cian Ryan (P) (0-1), Aidan Tuohy, Gavin Dalton, Aaron Colohan (1-1, 1-0F), Eanna Ormond (0-1), Jack Bergin (0-1), Padraig Dalton, Sam Hall (0-3F), Charlie Hall, James McLoughlin.
Subs: Lee Hayes for Byrne (20 mins), Jamie Moloney for C. Hall, Harry Fogarty for McLoughlin, Ning Brennan for Lonergan (all 44 mins), Dan Quealy for S. H (57 mins).
Cllr. Siobhan Ambrose is pushing for additional routes for inclusion in the Clonmel Town Bus Service. This follows the latest report given to her which shows that over 22,500 passengers availed of the bus service in September. Cllr. Ambrose who represents the Clonmel District on the Transport Committee said “This service commenced last December and if you look at the figures broken down month on month you have almost 1,000 new passengers using this service. They’re phenomenal figures and we’re really delighted that’s there’s been such an uptake on the service. The routes are good but we’re also aware that this is only phase one of this service. It covers three areas of the town but we want to look at rolling out other phases around the town.”
According to Cllr Ambrose we are constantly on to the Department looking for additional routes to be added and in turn more phases to be rolled out. The fact that we have the figures to show that month on month we have seen roughly 1,000 additional users that’s obviously going to help us as we engage with the Department with respect to adding additional routes onto the Clonmel Town Bus Service. I am aware that since it started last December that the Clonmel Town Bus Service has been a lifeline to so many people in terms of offering passengers the option of travelling into the town centre to either shop or visit friends during the day or in the evenings. I have been inundated with passengers telling me how great the service is and how helpful the bus drivers are to all of the passengers. Cllr. Ambrose also reminded members of the public that leap cards are available from the Post Office which give reduced fares for passengers. The future rollout of additional phases of the Clonmel Town bus is vital from both a social and an economic perspective for both passengers and local businesses and given the almost 1,000 extra passengers being recorded month on month I will continue to push for additional routes to be added to this service.
FBD Insurance Tipperary Junior A Hurling Championship Final
MOYLE ROVERS 2-15 KILADANGAN 0-11
A determined and fully-focused year from the Moyle Rovers hurlers saw them crowned County Junior A champions at Templemore on Saturday afternoon last when they emphatically defeated Kildanagan by 10 points in the county decider.
Moyle Rovers captain Dara Ryan making his after-match speech.
A solid first half against the breeze, including an early goal from Killian Butler, laid the foundation for the victory, the Rovers going to the break 1-8 to 0-6 up. A second goal, earned by the honest and hard-working Anthony Phelan, in the 49th minute, finally saw off the stubborn challenge of the northerners. Moyle Rovers were fully deserving winners at the final whistle, and it was fitting that team captain Dara Ryan, who put in a huge performance over the hour, accepted the cup on behalf of the Powerstown/Lisronagh outfit.
Nathan Croke (4)Brian McKeown (16) and Luke Delahunty (15) after the game.
Relegated from the intermediate grade in 2021, Rovers will return to that level next year, and now also have the bonus of looking forward to Munster club competition this year, something they had already achieved prior to Saturday’s final, given Kiladangan’s status as a senior club.
It was also the club’s first adult county hurling success since 2007, a year in which they also won the Munster title before losing the All-Ireland decider to Conahy Shamrocks of Kilkenny under lights at Croke Park. John McGrath’s side will be hoping for another extended run in the provincial championship once the celebrations of Saturday are put to bed.
With the breeze at their backs Kiladangan had the better start and went two points up within two minutes with scores from Eoghan Sharkey and DJ McGrath. However, they were rocked back on their heels in the fifth minute when Rory Collins found Killian Butler with a pass before Butler ran through to drive home a powerful goal.
Moyle Rovers then began to assert themselves and with Ben Owens, Riain Quigley and Kevin Grace prominent around the middle of the park, they hit a mini purple patch over the next 15 minutes scoring six (one free) to a lone free in reply from Kiladangan.
Dara Ryan pointed his first free of the day, which was quickly followed by a point from the ever-dangerous Killian Butler before Neil Cahalan landed a long-range free for Kiladangan to make it 1-2 to 0-3 after 10 minutes in favour of the Rovers.
One of the points of the game followed from Anthony Phelan after numerous Rovers players worked the sliotar through the lines to great effect. Kevin Grace then tagged on two excellent points in three minutes, before a point off his left from 45 metres by Dara Ryan pushed the Monroe side a significant six clear after 20 minutes into the breeze.
Rovers suffered a big setback when the influential Ben Owens had to leave the field injured, replaced by Daire Luttrell. Rory Collins slipped into the holding role in the rearrangement and also did very well.
A 65 converted by Neil Cahalan was Kiladangan’s first score in a quarter of an hour, the same player quickly following up with a point from play after Daragh Butler picked him out with the pass.
Killian Butler pointed for the Rovers on the half-hour, opportunistically capitalising on a Kiladangan defensive mix-up, before Cahalan with his second from play, and a Dara Ryan free completed the first half scoring.
Going to the break five points to the good, the faster and fitter-looking Moyle Rovers were now in with a magnificent chance of capturing county silverware if they could keep focused on the job in hand.
The opening quarter of the second period was point-for-point, four apiece for either side, a pattern Moyle Rovers would have been quite content with while maintaining that interval advantage of five points, 1-12 to 0-10, on 45 minutes.
For Rovers those scores came from the very capable Luke Delahunty (two from play) and two Dara Ryan frees, with Kiladangan’s outstanding player, Neil Cahalan replying with three (one free) and another from DJ McGrath who had a lot to do to round his man and point from an acute angle for Kiladangan.
Dara Ryan then won and converted a free for the Monroe side before the game’s second and decisive score arrived.
A long-range effort at a Rovers point fell short and initially it looked as if Kiladangan goalkeeper Ciaran Kelly had plenty of time to deal with it. However, put under pressure from Anthony Phelan, who made the yards to challenge, the full-forward got a touch on the sliotar to force it over the line.
All over now bar the shouting with Rovers nine clear and 10 minutes remaining, Kiladangan tagged on their last token point, again from Cahalan, before Moyle Rovers raised the last two white flags of the final. Riain Quigley, who covered a huge area of ground all afternoon, hit a superb point two minutes from time. Then one of the biggest cheers of the afternoon went up when veteran Rovers dual-player Danny Lyne, just on the pitch, embellished his county final appearance with a huge point from half-way and a follow-up fist punch for the faithful in the stand.
This was, as it has been all year for Moyle Rovers, a no-nonsense business-like performance. Twelve months ago, as raging hot favourites, they were floored in the South final by Clonmel Og. That hard lesson was clearly taken on board and right throughout this campaign, in the South final against St Patrick’s, and in a county semi against Holycross/Ballycahill they never once lost focus. And they had to do it the hard way also when losing Sean Keating in the South final and later the talismanic Stephen Quirke, both through injury. In Saturday’s final, they also lost Ben Owens in the first half, who had been playing a blinder at the time.
Brian Gleeson was dependable as ever between the posts, and the full-back line of the McKeown brothers with Conor McGrath in the middle never put a foot wrong. Wing backs Luke Boland and Shane Ryan supported Ben Owens in leading the rearguard. Riain Quigley and Kevin Grace won the midfield battle, while all six forwards, led by captain Dara Ryan at centre-forward can reflect on a good day’s work for the club.
It was a disappointing day for the northerners, the club’s second string, who had a sprinkling of players with senior experience in the mix. There was too much of a dependency on Neil Cahalan who accounted for eight of his side’s 11 scores, with only DJ McGrath and Eoghan Sharkey also contributing to the scoreboard. Darragh Ryan, Martin Minehan, Johnny Horan and Bill Cleary also had their moments.
After the disappointment for both of Moyle Rovers’ football teams last week with elimination from the county championships, what a difference a week has made on the Scotch Road. In the space of six days Moyle Rovers have now added two county titles with the ladies footballers winning a first-ever county senior final last Sunday and the club’s hurlers crowned county champions on Saturday.
Moyle Rovers: Brian Gleeson, Cathal McKeown, Conor McGrath, Brian McKeown, Luke Boland, Ben Owens, Shane Ryan, Riain Quigley (0-1), Kevin Grace (0-2), Killian Butler (1-2), Dara Ryan (capt., 0-6, 0-5F), Rory Collins, Dean English, Anthony Phelan (1-1), Luke Delahunty (0-2).
Subs: Daire Luttrell for Owens (inj., 23 mins), Nathan Croke for McGrath (55 mins), Sean Hackett for Grace (55 mins), Danny Lyne (0-1) for Phelan (59 mins), Michael O’Reilly for Butler (59 mins).
Kiladangan: Ciaran Kelly, Gavin McGrath, Shane Seymour (capt), Jack McGrath, Darragh Ryan, Martin Minehan, Ronan Ducie, Johnny Horan, Neil Cahalan (0-8, 0-2F, 0-1×65), Bill Cleary, Eoghan Sharkey (0-1), Matthew Cleary, DJ McGrath (0-2), Dan O’Meara, Eoin Meagher.
Subs: Daragh Butler for B. Cleary (26 mins), Eoin Kelly for Sharkey (HT), Stephen Mulvihill for Meagher (40 mins), Paddy Gallagher for S. Seymour (49 mins), Ryan Gilick for O’Meara (59 mins).
Referee: Conor Doyle (Silvermines).
Under the watchful eyes of club secretary Jean O’Connor and his mother, Suzanne Ryan, Moyle Rovers captain Dara Ryan addresses the club faithful after his side had defeated Kiladangan in the county final at Templemore on Saturday afternoon.
FBD INSURANCE TIPPERARY INTERMEDIATE FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP SEMI-FINAL
GALTEE ROVERS 3-5 GOLDEN/KILFEACLE 1-10
A goal by Darren McGrath with practically the last kick of the game saw Galtee Rovers snatch victory from Golden/Kilfeacle in the semi-final of the FBD Insurance Tipperary Intermediate Football Championship played at Páirc na nGael, New Inn on Friday night.
When Golden/Kilfeacle’s Shane O’Connell ran from deep in his own half to point and extend his side’s advantage to two in time added-on it looked odds-on certain that they would be advancing to the county decider. However, Galtee Rovers had other ideas, and a superb solo goal by Darren McGrath right at the death flipped everything on its head. The Bansha side, in an instant, would be going forward to contest an all-West Tipperary county final, while Golden/Kilfeacle, for the second time in six days, were heartbreakingly losing a county semi-final by just a single point. Their intermediate hurlers lost to Ballingarry last Sunday.
Under the Rockwell Rovers floodlights on a night with a stiff breeze and some squally showers, this proved to be a rather strange game of football, a game of low scoring and one in which, it seemed, both sides were hell-bent on leaving it behind them. In the end Golden/Kilfeacle succeeded in doing just that.
Having won the toss Golden elected to play with the breeze but amazingly found themselves behind at half-time by 2-0 to 0-4. Despite Golden enjoying much more possession and scoring four points from play, it was Galtee Rovers with two Daire Egan penalties from only three serious attacks in the whole of the half who went to the break two points to the good. In that first half Golden kicked six wides while Galtee’s solitary wide came right on half-time. No doubt, Eddy Grace’s side, living on scraps, were in a much better place at the interval. The wide count at full-time was 11 to four, Golden/Kilfeacle the more profligate.
The second half livened up somewhat and at the three-quarters stage Golden had levelled matters at 2-1 to 0-7. It got even better for them seven minutes from time with an excellent goal scored by Niall Heffernan. After a pin-point hand pass over the Galtees’ defence from Ben Currivan, Heffernan, coming through on a diagonal run, gathered the ball and shook the back of the net with a thunderbolt from 14 metres out and Brian Leamy’s side went 1-8 to 2-4 ahead.
In time added-on, Golden were still two points to the good when Darren McGrath innocuously, it seemed, gained possession for Galtee Rovers about 35 metres out from goal on the stand side. Moving slowly across the pitch he twisted and turned past a number of Golden tackles before making space for himself 15 metres from goal. The corner-forward then blasted low and the ball found the back of the net much to the delight of the Galtee supporters. On the kick-out Sean Everard blew the final whistle and Golden/Kilfeacle were left in shock and rueing as to how McGrath had made so much ground towards goal in the circumstances before scoring that late-late winner.
After a slow-start to the game, Jack Leamy with two points in two minutes, the second from 50 metres, had Golden on their way. But in the 12th minute, in perhaps their first real attack of the game, a move linking Eoin Halpin, Shane Egan and Darren McGrath ended with McGrath being hauled down in the area. Up stepped captain Daire Egan with a rocket low to the left corner of the net and a 1-0 to 0-2 lead for Galtee.
By the end of a low-scoring first quarter, Golden were back in front with further points from Jack Leamy and Shane O’Connell at 1-0 to 0-4.
In somewhat controversial circumstances Galtee Rovers were awarded a second penalty in the 24th minute and once again Daire Egan, choosing the keeper’s left hand side, gave Jack Currivan no chance. Egan himself had won the penalty but initially the referee awarded a free further back having, it seemed, played the advantage rule for an earlier infringement. However, in consultation with his umpires the decision was changed and Egan didn’t need to be asked a second time with his second penalty.
With no further scoring Galtee Rovers led by two at the break and it was out to three after goalkeeper Robbie McGrath converted a 65 in the second minute after the resumption.
Three frees in succession, two from Sam Hall and one from Jack Leamy levelled matters after 43 minutes, before another pair of frees for Galtee, from Shane Egan and Robbie McGrath edged the Reds 2-3 to 0-7 ahead on 47 minutes.
Galtee Rovers then cut through the Golden defence and Tony Egan had a chance of a goal well saved by Jack Currivan before Jack Leamy, with the first score from play 19 minutes into the second half, brought it back to a one point game. Yet another free from Robbie McGrath extended the Galtee lead to two points as the pendulum seemed to be swinging the way of the team with the breeze at their backs.
Niall Hefferan’s goal seven minutes from the end of normal time brought his side right back into it, but almost from the kick-out Galtee Rovers were guilty of another wasted goal effort by Bill Quirke at the other end. If they were to lose this game they would greatly regret these missed opportunities.
Substitute Eric Grogan levelled matters shortly after his introduction with a nice point for Galtee Rovers following good work by Bill Quirke, but down the stretch Golden seemed to have taken back control of their own destiny with two late points from Sam Hall (free) and that solo effort from county senior Shane O’Connell to go two points up with the clock now in the red..
Alas, Darren McGrath, put paid to that ambition of county silverware and a possible place at senior level for 2025. It brought an end to a very tough week for the Green and Whites. Having seen their county minor champions of last year lose to Golden/Kilfeacle a few weeks back, it seemed the same fate was facing their senior side up to that piece of individual skill from Darren McGrath. This was, as it needed to be, a solid display from Galtee, and while there wasn’t too much pretty football on show, they got the job done somehow in the end and they now progress to that winner-takes-all county final.
The defence for Galtee worked well as a unit all through and held their opponents to just 1-2 from open play in a battling second half. Ciaran McCarthy and Evan Kennedy led their lines well, and Eoghan Byrnes and Cian O’Dwyer also got through plenty of work.
Bill Quirke and Daire Egan had a good battle with Jack Leamy and Eoin Marnane at midfield, while in the forward division Shane Egan and Darren McGrath were most prominent for the winners.
Golden/Kilfeacle will be hurt for snatching defeat from the jaws of victory. They definitely had the better of possession and opportunities on the night and while they might have had issues with some decisions that went against them, they ultimately were the architects of their own downfall, and they’ll know that.
In defence Aidan O’Connell, Shane O’Connell (with two points) and Ben Currivan did well, while upfront Jack Leamy contributed four points from play and Niall Heffernan took his goal superbly. After that though, they struggled to find scores.
Galtee Rovers: Robbie McGrath (0-3, 0-2F, 0-1×65), Eoghan Byrnes, Ciaran McCarthy, Peter Carroll, Cian O’Dwyer, Evan Kennedy, Sean Daly, Bill Quirke, Daire Egan (capt., 2-0 pens), Eamon Quirke, Shane Egan (0-1F), Robbie Byron, Eoin Halpin, Shane Power, Darren McGrath (1-0).
Subs: Emmet Bonnar for Byrnes (42 mins), Tony Egan for E. Quirke (45 mins); Eric Grogan (0-1) for Daly (51 mins), Conal Grogan for Byron (54 mins), Tony O’Brien for Halpin (55 mins, inj).
Golden/Kilfeacle: Jack Currivan, Cian O’Connell, Aidan O’Connell (capt), Daithí Bargary, Gavin Dalton, Shane O’Connell (0-2), Ben Currivan, Jack Leamy (0-3, 0-1F), Eoin Marnane, Aaron Colgan, Niall Heffernan (1-0), Eanna Ormond, Sam Hall (0-3F), Ronan Hayes, Jack Bergin .
Subs: Jack Lonergan for Bergin (51 mins), Tom Byrnes for Hayes (53 mins), Padraig Dalton for Bargary (57 mins).
McCarras Bus Hire South Tipperary Junior ‘C’ Hurling Final
KILLENAULE 2-19 CLONMEL ÓG 0-7
There was a silver lining on Saturday afternoon to what had been a disappointing year for the Killenaule GAA Club when their Junior hurlers comprehensively won the McCarras Bus Hire South Tipperary Junior ‘C’ Final against Clonmel Óg at Fethard. In control of matters throughout, the Robins’ third team quite simply had too much craft and experience for their opponents on the day winning by 18 points in the end.
The Killenaule squad, mentors and supporters after their victory over Clonmel Og in the McCarras Bus Hire South Tipperary Junior ‘C’ Hurling Final played at Fethard on Saturday.
In fairness, it was the Clonmel club’s first year fielding two adult hurling sides in South Board competitions, and despite their best efforts over the 60 minutes, they had to give second best this time to a Steve Lawlor managed Killenaule, whose selectors were John Healy, Jimmy Gleeson and Kenneth Browne.
The spine of the Killenaule side had man-of-the-match Daniel Guinan at centre-back, former All-Ireland senior winner Declan Fanning at centre-forward, and seasoned former seniors Thomas Maher and Gearóid O’Rourke at midfield. It was that diamond around the middle of the park that mostly controlled the proceedings, with Guinan, in particular, lording it under the high ball and with many telling clearances over the hour.
Man of the Match, Killenaule centre-back Daniel Guinan accepts the trophy from John McCarra of McCarra Bus Hire (Newcastle) sponsors of the South Tipperary Junior C Hurling Final. On left is South Board chairman, Nicholas Moroney.
Killenaule got off to a quick start and were 0-5 to no score up inside the first 10 minutes, following four frees (three of them from Declan Fanning and one from Daniel Guinan) plus a Johnny Gleeson point from play. That Gleeson point came just after the evergreen Clonmel Óg servant Brian Gentles pulled off a brilliant save to deny Niall O’Connor whose well-struck effort looked destined for the net only for the quick reflexes of the Clonmel Óg custodian.
Credit also to Killenaule keeper Jonathan Gleeson at the other end who pulled off a double save in the ninth minute, firstly from a Simon Ahern effort and also denying Jake O’Donnell in the follow up.
The game’s first goal eventually arrived in the 13th minute when Johnny Gleeson cut in from the left to find the far corner of the net with a ripping shot. At the end of the first quarter Killenaule were in cruise control leading 1-5 to 0-0.
Killenaule captain, Thomas Maher, accepts the brand new cup from John McCarra of McCarra Bus Hire (Newcastle) sponsors of the South Tipperary Junior C Hurling Final. On left is South Board chairman, Nicholas Moroney
Another Declan Fanning free stretched the advantage to nine points before Clonmel Óg finally got on the scoreboard in the 19th minute with a long-range point from Denis Hanrahan. And in their best spell of the game they added another two points from play without reply via two excellent scores from midfielder Ian Holloway and corner-forward Kyle Grant.
But that brief resurgence for ‘The Ógies’ was soon halted and Killenaule finished the first half with four unanswered points from Daniel Guinan (free), Johnny Gleeson (2) and Gerry Kennedy. That ability of their forwards to take a score when the opportunity presented itself was plain to see as a notable difference between the sides.
At half-time Killenaule held a comfortable 1-10 to 0-3 advantage.
The beginning of the second was similar to the conclusion of the first, with five points within six minutes, without reply, going the way of the red jerseys from Daniel Guinan (free), a sweet brace from Sean Ivors, Kenny Lawrence and another well-taken score from Niall O’Connor.
Seven minutes after the restart the Óg’s Denis Hanrahan landed his side’s first of the half with a free from 67 metres.
Kenny Lawrence extended the Killenaule lead to 15 points in the 38th minute before Brian Gentles pulled off another fine save from Sean Ivors two minutes later. As he had done in the first half, Jonathan Gleeson matched Gentles’s heroics when superbly saving from Clonmel Óg best performer, Simon Ahern, in the 44th minute, after good work in the build-up by Karl Kearney.
Right on the three-quarters mark Denis Hanrahan had the Clonmel side’s first from play of the second half to leave the scoreline reading at 1-16 to 0-5.
Hard-working midfielder and Killenaule captain Thomas Maher then pointed before the game’s second goal arrived and again it was Johnny Gleeson who did the damage. He ran laterally across the Óg rearguard, 15 metres out, to make room for himself before unleashing a drive to the corner of the net and polish off what was a fine personal display.
The last minutes of the game saw both sides going through the motions with both adding a pair of points from play. For Killenaule Thomas Ryan and David Murphy raised white flags, while for a never-say-die Clonmel Óg Sean Cagney and Alex Slattery were on target with points.
Others to play their part in the victory for Killenaule were Adrian Tobin, Declan Ryan, Jack and Max Healy and Daire O’Connell.
Up against it from the start and all through, Clonmel Og never threw in the towel and had some solid displays from Simon Ahern, Sean Cagney, Brian Gentles, Denis Hanrahan, Alex Greene, Dean Slattery, Noel Walsh,and Karl Kearney.
TEAMS AND SCORERS
Killenaule:
Jonathan Gleeson, Adrian Tobin, Declan Ryan, Jack Healy, Daire O’Connell, Daniel Guinan (0-3F), Max Healy, Gearóid O’Rourke, Thomas Maher (capt, 0-1), Niall O’Connor (0-1), Declan Fanning (0-4F), David Murphy (0-1), Johnny Gleeson (2-3), Kenneth Browne, Gerry Kennedy (0-1).
Subs all used in roll-on roll-off format: Kenny Lawrence (0-2), Brian McGrath, Sean Ivors (0-2), Thomas Fitzgerald, Thomas Ryan (0-1).
Clonmel Óg:
Brian Gentles, Alex Greene, Sean Barrett, Aidan Fox, Dean Slattery, Adam Tobin-Purcell, Noel Walsh (0-1), Ian Holloway (0-1), Simon Ahern, Denis Hanrahan (0-3, 0-1F), Karl Kearney, Johnny Cagney, Jake O’Donnell, Sean Cagney (0-1), Kyle Grant (0-1).
Subs all used in roll-on roll-off format: Kevin McGrath, Jimmy Stokes, Tyler Aylward, Dylan Lonergan, Craig Hartnett, Jack Sweeney.
TSP were delighted to showcase an energetic morning of athletics in the fantastic TUS Clonmel Campus as part of the European Week of Sport, in collaboration with Clonmel Athletic Club. The event brought together groups from the National Learning Network, Brothers of Charity, and Knocklofty Rehab Care, providing them with a unique opportunity to participate in various athletic activities alongside members of the Clonmel Athletic Club.
The atmosphere was filled with excitement and enthusiasm as participants engaged in a range of activities designed to promote physical fitness and community spirit. Each participant was thrilled to receive a medal, a token of recognition for their efforts and participation. The joy and pride on their faces were truly heartwarming.
One of the highlights of the day was the chance for participants to try out sports wheelchairs and handcycles on the track. This experience proved to be a big hit, offering a new and exhilarating way for everyone to enjoy the sport. The inclusive nature of the event ensured that everyone, regardless of their abilities, could take part and have fun.
Special thanks go to the members of Clonmel Athletic Club for their invaluable assistance throughout the event and for providing the medals that added a special touch to the day. Additionally, a big thank you to Patrick at TUS Clonmel Campus for facilitating this great event and ensuring everything ran smoothly. Ní
Neart Go Cur Le Chéile – there’s strength in unity. This event was a perfect example of how coming together as a community can create memorable and impactful experiences for all involved
FBD Insurance Tipperary Senior Football Championship Quarter-Final
KILSHEELAN/KILCASH 2-13 CAHIR 1-14
Kilsheelan/Kilcash are through to the semi-finals of this year’s FBD Insurance Tipperary Senior Football Championship but only after the hot-favourites survived a huge scare from Cahir at Ardfinnan on Saturday afternoon.
Cruising at half-time when seven points up at 1-10 to 0-6, Kilsheelan looked well on their way to a last four engagement with Clonmel Commercials (or Ballina). However, a different Cahir team emerged for the second half and in the end Liam Stokes’ side just about had enough to hold on for a two-point victory.
When Jamie Roche stretched the Kilsheelan lead to eight points, six minutes into the second half, one couldn’t foresee that they wouldn’t score again for another 20 minutes. In that hiatus Cahir managed 1-4 without reply, including a well-taken Stephen Grogan goal. Now, with six minutes remaining Kilsheelan were suddenly in a fight for survival, a man down after Daire Brennan’s dismissal, and all the momentum with John O’Connor’s team.
In the end Kilsheelan had Jamie Roche to thank for a superb goal in the 56th minute, created by Mark Kehoe’s decisive run through the middle, putting them four points clear. And while Cahir continued to press hard and had three late frees, Roche wrapped up the scoring with another free to secure that semi-final ticket.
Mark Kehoe had another great game.
Apart from Roche’s 1-2 contribution, Kilsheelan’s only other second half score was a long-range Evan Comerford free just after the restart. While the Cahir side that emerged for the second half was of a more positive mindset to their opening half side, so too was an indifferent Kilsheelan, who had been lording it up to half-time with Mark Kehoe magnificent. If Kilsheelan/Kilcash are to have any shout in two weeks time, they better not arrive with that second half performance. There is plenty of room for improvement and they will know that themselves better than anyone.
Kevin Grogan opened the day’s scoring with a point for Cahir but within seven minutes Kilsheelan were 0-4 to 0-1 ahead, with scores from Evan Comerford (free), Barry Kehoe, Jamie Roche (free) and Mark Kehoe who ran from deep inside his own half, unchallenged, to point.
The two full-forwards, Craig Guiry (Cahir) and Conor Davin-Murphy exchanged points, before the two centre-forwards Niall McKenna (Cahir) and Mark Kehoe did likewise, leaving the score at 0-6 to 0-3 on the quarter-hour mark.
Mark Kehoe and Micheál Freaney then one-twoed their way through the centre of the Cahir defence culminating in a Kehoe rocket heading for the corner of the net only to be saved brilliantly by a one-handed effort by Aaron Wall. Unfortunately for the Cahir custodian, Daire Brennan was following through to pick up the rebound and rifle it beyond Wall.
Long-serving Ian Flannery soon pulled a point back for Cahir when doing well under a lot of pressure to even get his shot away.
The last 10 minutes of the opening half saw Tipperary senior hurler Mark Kehoe excel with three further points from play, mixing a combination of incredible speed with a superb point-taking ability. New county football manager Philly Ryan was present in Ardfinnan and must be only imagining what a difference Kehoe would make to his plans, if only.
In between Kehoe’s three points Liam Freaney added another for Kilsheelan, while the always-honest Kevin Grogan, and Craig Guiry (free) raised white flags for Cahir.
At the break with Kilsheelan 1-10 to 0-6 to the good, it was impossible to envisage such an exciting second half in which the leaders would be put to the pin of their collars by a fired-up Cahir comeback.
The lead was twice out to eight points early in the second period with an Evan Comerford free and a Jamie Roche point bookending a point from the just-introduced Cahir sub, Jack Buckley.
Buckley again, from the edge of the D, finished off a good Cahir move in the 37th minute, before a Dylan Butler effort at a point was safely tipped over by Comerford. Cahir were slowly building momentum, the lead reduced to six, 1-12 to 0-9, after 38 minutes.
Cahir then introduced another pair of subs in Eoin Wyse and Nicholas Reidy, the latter pointing two minutes later. And it got even better when yet another just-introduced Cahir substitute, Ger Quinn, landed a sweet left-legged point to reduce the gap to four with 12 minutes to go.
The pressure was beginning to tell and Kilsheelan suffered a further setback in the 50th minute when goalscorer Daire Brennan was dismissed with a red card (a black being brandished after the umpires consulted to follow his first-half yellow). Numerically disadvantaged now, it went from bad to worse for Kilsheelan when Cahir goaled with a well-taken Stephen Grogan strike low beyond Evan Comerford after good work in the build-up by Ger Quinn.
With six minutes still remaining, Cahir tails up and Kilsheelan a man down, the pre-match 3/1 on favourites were in bother. They needed a response having gone 20 minutes without a score and they found it. That lifeline arrived when a quick-counter attack, aided in a big way by Mark Kehoe’s pace, was finished low by Jamie Roche to halt the decline and ease the obvious anxiety on the sideline, where manager Liam Stokes had fallen foul of referee Seanie Everard.
If Kilsheelan thought that Roche’s goal would finally kill off the Cahir challenge they would have erred again with complacency. Cahir kept pressing and three converted close-in frees were testimony of that tension, two from Craig Guiry and another from Ger Quinn, making it a one-point game deep into added-time. With possession crucial, Micheál Freaney won a vital late free and Jamie Roche converted for Kilsheelan to finally see off the dogged Cahir resistance.
It was the cliched game of two halves, the Kilsheelan first half smoothness almost unrecognisable from the frenzy of the second; conversely Cahir didn’t show for the first half hour compared to their post-interval mettle.
Kilsheelan will need a 60+ minute effort the next day in the semi-final but if they can find their A-game they can ask questions of three-in-a-row seeking Clonmel Commercials. The prize for the challengers, should they succeed, would be their first county final appearance since 1981 (v Galtee Rovers); their last county triumph in 1972 (v Ardfinnan).
Mark Kehoe’s first half performance in particular was immense on the day, but it was far from a one-man show when they had to dig their way out of trouble in the second half. Others to do well were Jason Madigan, Daire Brennan, Micheál Freaney, Conor Neville and Emmet Butler.
For Cahir Michael O’Connor, Eddie Kendrick, Kevin Grogan, Stephen Grogan, Niall McKenna, Craig Guiry and Ian Flannery put in battling displays to the very end.
Kilsheelan/Kilcash: Evan Comerford (0-2F), Conor Neville, Jason Madigan (capt), Tadhg McGuire, Emmet Butler, Daire Brennan (1-0), Billy O’Connor, Micheál Freaney, Billy Murphy, Tommy O’Connor, Mark Kehoe (0-5), Barry Kehoe (0-1), Jamie Roche (1-3, 0-2F), Conor Davin-Murphy (0-1), Liam Freaney (0-1).
Subs: Senan Butler for Davin-Murphy (47 mins), Mark Stokes for McGuire (55 mins), Eoin Kehoe for Murphy (60+2 mins), Sean Ryan for E. Butler (60+3 mins).
Cahir: Aaron Wall, Sean Leahy, Michael O’Connor, Eoin Donaghy, Jesse Kiely, Eddie Kenrick, Colin McEniry, Kevin Grogan (0-2), Stephen Grogan (1-0), Ian Flannery (0-1), Niall McKenna (0-1), Conor McKenna, Conor O’Brien, Craig Guiry (0-4, 0-3F), Jake Kiely.
Subs: Dylan Butler (0-1) for Jake Kiely (27 mins), Jack Buckley (0-2) for N. McKenna (inj., 34 mins), Eoin Wyse for C. McKenna (42 mins), Nicholas Reidy (0-1) for O’Brien (42 mins), Ger Quinn (0-2, 0-1F) for Flannery (47 mins).
Knockavilla Donaskeigh Kickhams claimed a first Maria Marron Palmers Hill Stud West Junior A Football Championship title since 2021 when dethroning defending champions Arravale Rovers in Clonoulty on Wednesday evening. Arravale Rovers were aiming for back-to-back titles for the first time since 1988 when they completed a three in a row. Kickhams on the other hand were appearing in a first final since their 2021 penalty shootout victory over Sean Treacys.
Knockavilla Donaskeigh Kickhams panel pictured with the Rev. A Tobin Cup.
Played in excellent dry conditions and not a puff of wind the game never really reached any great heights. Jamie Duncan had an early goal for Kickhams and they led in a game that ultimately, they controlled but didn’t pull clear until the closing stages of the final quarter. Arravale had their moments but struggled to make any inroads against a well marshalled Kickhams defence who got big numbers behind the ball when Arravale did pose a threat. Too often Arravale ended up in the corner and then had to recycle the ball back out in an attempt to make inroads. Kickhams on the other hand looked dangerous in attack though their finishing will certainly need work. Arravale survived on two occasions in the first half with two late blocks. Kickhams would lead 1-3 to 0-2 at the interval though could easily have had another two or three goals along with a higher points tally having worked themselves into good positions only to see their radar leave them down.
The second half would see Kickhams slowly pull away with Arravale failing to score in the third quarter. Kickhams on the other hand could have had another goal or two and certainly finished with a higher points tally but for some erratic shooting. Arravale on the other hand rarely troubled Declan Ryan in the Kickhams goal only for a point effort to drop short but Ryan was well alert. Johnny Lowry had a late goal chance but it was kicked at Ryan at a perfect height for the goalkeeper.
The game was only in the second minute when Kickhams had the ball in the Arravale net. Joe O’Dwyer passed to the in running Elliott Thompson who cut in on goal before sending the ball across for Jamie Duncan to palm home. Thompson would get on a huge amount of ball over the hour and was ably assisted by Adam Daly, Walter O’Carroll, Sean Cannon and Jamie Duncan while Conor Farrell and Lorcan Carr led the defence. Arravale set up with Roger O’Connor as a sweeper while David Kelly and Shane Quigley manned a two-man full forward line. Shane Farrell then became the spare man for Kickhams. David Kelly who was one of the major threats for Arravale replied with their opening score in the sixth minute. John Paul Lohan along with O’Mahony and the aforementioned Kelly tried hard with Lohan’s paces causing problems but too often with Kickhams getting numbers back Arravale were forced into the corner. Joe O’Dwyer would add three second quarter points with David Kelly doubling his Arravale tally into the dressing room end just before the break where Kickhams led 1-3 to 0-2. Both sides shared six wides in that half but it was Kickhams who probably had the better of the chances with Arravale often having to shoot from distance.
It took twelve minutes for the second half’s opening scoring with Elliott Thompson adding his name to the score board. Just before the third quarter ended Walter O’Carroll put six between the sides. While it may not have shown on the scoreboard Kickhams always looked in control. The only thing that may catch them was probably the concession of a quick goal or two through that never really threaten to happen. Sean O’Mahony ended Arravale’s scoring drought with a point after seventeen minutes but Kickhams saw it out and finished with a well taken point from Conor O’Mahony.
Following the game West Board Chairman Tommy Hayes presented the Rev. A Tobin Cup to Kickhams captain Elliott Thompson with John O’Shea representing the sponsors.
Tommy Hayes (West Chairman), Elliott Thompson (Kickhams) and John O’Shea representing the sponsors Maria Marron Palmers Hill Stud. Photo: Francis Coughlan
Scorers and Teams:Kickhams: Jamie Duncan (1-0), Joe O’Dwyer (0-3, (0-2f)), Walter O’Carroll (0-3, (0-2f)), Elliott Thompson (0-1), Ben Ryan (0-1), Conor O’Mahony
Arravale Rovers: David Kelly (0-2), Sean O’Mahony (0-1), Johnny Lowry (0-1)
Kickhams: Declan Ryan, Shane Buckley, Conor Farrell, Shane Farrell, Aidan Duggan, Lorcan Carr, Eoin McCormack, Adam Daly, Elliott Thompson, Walter O’Carroll, Jamie Duncan, Sean Cannon, Joe O’Dwyer, Stephen Browne, Mark Furlong Subs Used: Ben Ryan, Conor O’Mahony, Conor Farrell
Arravale Rovers: Marcus Kinane, Evan Carrie, Sean Spillane, Jack English, Peter Ryan, Odhran O’Dwyer, John Paul Lohan, Shane Maher, Evan Ryan, Sean O’Mahony, Cormac Maher, Micheal Sharpe, Shane Quigley, David Kelly, Roger O’Connor Subs Used: James Hogan, Johnny Lowry, Sean Lewis, Luke Walsh, Noel O’Mahoney
Hats off to the young footballers of both Clonmel Óg and Knockmealdown Gaels who served up a cracking contest in the final of the South Tipperary U19 ‘B’ Championship under floodlights at Duneske, Cahir on Wednesday night. Victory in the end deservedly went to the town side who defiantly held off a strong second half rally from the Fr Sheehy’s/Ballylooby combination to capture the title.
Clonmel Og captain Rhys Lonergan accepts the cup
Seven points up at half-time thanks to three goals, the Ned Hall Park side saw their advantage reduced to the minimum with 10 minutes to go. With the game back in the proverbial melting pot, ‘The Óg’ produced a superb goal scored by Max Ryan in the 56th minute to regain the initiative and thereafter held out for the win to scenes of great celebrations at the final whistle.
From the get-go this was a thoroughly enjoyable encounter, both sides up for the challenge and playing quick counter-attacking football at every opportunity. The Gaels were on the scoreboard after just 22 seconds with a point from Cathal English and doubled that lead inside 90 seconds with a Ben Carey free.
The ubiquitous midfielder Julian Kerton settled Clonmel Óg with a point in the third minute but Knockmealdown Gaels soon stretched their lead to three with a fine point from Ben Carey and another Cathal English free.
Man of the Match Jamal Yousif
Clonmel Óg’s full-forward Jack Kealy finished off a fine length-of-the-field move with a 10th minute point just before the first goal arrived. From that kick-out ‘The Óg’ regained possession to run down the throat of the KMD defence. When the hugely impressive Jamal Yousif was bundled over, the former Tipperary minor dusted himself down for the penalty and while his initial effort cracked back off the crossbar, he regained possession and his composure to make sure at the second bite of the cherry.
Things got even better for Eoin Fallon’s side a minute later when Clonmel Óg created a superb movement linking Alex Slattery, Kyle Grant and Max Ryan before Jamal Yousif rounded it off superbly for his own and his side’s second goal in the 12th minute. In three minutes the Clonmel side had gone from three points down to four up.
Clonmel Og goalkeeper Oisin Martin was then called on to save superbly from Ben Carey at the other end, even if the Tipperary under 20 footballer did manage to take his point when the recycled move came back his way. And when Carey was fouled coming in along the endline, Cathal English pointed the tight free to make it 2-2 to 0-6 after 16 minutes.
However, the remainder of the first half very much belonged to the yellow jerseys who outscored their rivals 1-3 to 0-1 for a 3-5 to 0-7 advantage at the break.
Luke Hannigan and Jack Kealy kicked points in quick succession for Clonmel Og, the second of those particularly pleasing with Julian Kerton and Alex Slattery linking in the build-up.
A huge moment arrived four minutes before the interval with ‘The Óg’s’ third goal. Pressure from Max Ryan forced a turnover inside his own half and once in possession he cut through the KMD defence, offloading to Jack Kealy who made the best of his opportunity.
Man of the Match Jamal Yousif with a free stretched the advantage to eight points before Cathal English picked up on a crossfield pass to raise the last white flag of the half.
Inside a minute of the restart Jamal Yousif got on the end of a Jamie Brunnock pass to open the scoring and the Gaels needed to shake themselves up if they were going to get back into this decider.
‘The Óg’ had Adam Tobin Purcell blackcarded five minutes in for a foul on Ben Carey, Cathal English’s free, beginning their revival.
Two minutes later the combo were awarded a penalty when Cathal English was impeded, and he too dusted himself down before sending a rocket low into the Clonmel net.
Another Cathal English free was quickly followed by a superb point from KMD midfielder Filip Miklasewski in the 41st minute, reducing the deficit to just two points.
A Jamal Yousif free, his side’s first score since the opening minute of the half, stemmed the flow and the advantage was back out to four in the 47th minute when Luke Hannigan came up with his second vital point of this divisional decider.
Clonmel Óg were then turned over and in the ensuing counter-attack Ben Carey fed Conor English who really should have goaled, ‘The Óg’ hugely relieved to have conceded only a point for their profligacy in possession.
Undeterred, the Ballylooby/Fr Sheehy’s boys continued to try and open up their opponent’s defence, Carey and Miklasewski (with an excellent effort) adding a brace of points in two minutes to leave just the minimum between the sides at 3-8 to 1-13 with ten minutes remaining.
The pendulum looked to have swung the way of the combo once again and the Clonmel side needed a response. If they did, they got one in spades. Alex Slattery – who was magnificent throughout – began a move in his own half. Working up the field with Dylan McCormack they put Max Ryan in the clear and the centre-forward finished the move, and the contest, with a superb goal.
Dylan McCormack, who got through plenty of work after his second half introduction, then won a free which Jamal Yousif converted for a safe five-points cushion. The KMD tried to the end, late points from Greg Nugent and Cathal English (free) reducing the deficit to three, but Clonmel Óg weren’t to be denied this time.
With time almost up Clonmel Óg captain Rhys Lonergan was sent off for a second yellow offence.
It was a Clonmel Óg performance full of heart and passion with all the team putting in an almighty shift which they needed to in order to overcome an equally industrious Knockmealdown Gaels side.
Jamal Yousif’s 2-4 contribution deservedly won him the MOM award but Alex Slattery and Julian Kerton weren’t far behind. Luke Hannigan, Max Ryan, Jack Kealy, Alex Greene, Adam Zorgati, Adam Tobin Purcell and Dylan McCormack can all be proud of their contributions.
Huge credit to the KMD Gaels who lost nothing in defeat. Cathal English, Ben Carey, Chris O’Donnell, Filip Miklasewski, Oisin Ryan and Ryan Breedy who left nothing on the field of play.
Clonmel Og: Oisin Martin, Rian Galko, Rhys Lonergan (capt), Adam Zorgati, Alex Slattery, Adam Tobin Purcell, Alex Greene, Julian Kerton (0-1), Jamie Brunnock, Luke Hannigan (0-2), Max Ryan (1-0), Kyle Grant, Jimmy Stokes, Jack Kealy (1-2), Jamal Yousif (2-4, 1-0 pen, 0-3F).
Subs: Jack Aylward for Stokes (half-time), Dylan McCormack for Grant (41 mins).
Knockmealdown Gaels: Donnacha Reidy, Jack Owens, Shane O’Brien, Gearóid Hurley, Oisin Ryan, Chris O’Donnell, Ryan Breedy, Filip Miklasewski (0-2), John English (capt.), Dan Burke, Cathal English (1-8, 1-0 pen, 0-6F), Greg Nugent (0-1), Luke Morrissey, Ben Carey (0-3), Conor English (0-1).
A repeat of last year’s final produced an entirely different result this time round with Clonmel Commercials proving way too strong for Fethard in the South Tipperary Under 19 ‘A’ Football Final played under lights at Duneske, Cahir on Tuesday night.
The bitter disappointment of letting a five-points half-time lead slip in last year’s decider at Monroe when they eventually lost out by a point to ‘The Blues’ had the Clonmel side fully focused from the start. A pair of first half goals in the 21st and 22nd minutes helped Commercials to a facile 2-5 to 0-3 interval lead, and they outscored their opponents also by 2-4 to 0-3 in the second period for a comprehensive 15 points victory in the end.
It was a disappointing display from Fethard who played second fiddle to a more physical and hungrier Commercials. Time and again their attacking efforts were repelled by a well organised Clonmel rearguard and over the hour all Fethard could muster from open play was a single point scored by captain Matt Coen within a half minute of the second half restart. In truth they were trying to live off scraps never really having the penetration to break down a defence led by Tadgh Sheehan at centre-back.
Commercials had all the main men in this winning performance with centre-forward Joe Higgins commanding. Darragh O’Connor, Thomas Charles, Mark Corcoran, Michael Connellan, Jamie O’Keeffe and Alex Creed were also to the fore in the win. With last year’s county champions Galtee Rovers/St Pecaun’s failing to win out in the West division, Commercials will be hoping to go all the way once again in 2024. But they will have plenty to work on before then and won’t be happy with having kicked 11 wides against Fethard, many from very scoreable positions.
Darragh O’Connor had the game’s opening point after two minutes, the move initiated by Higgins when fielding superbly around midfield. Matt Coen levelled matters in the sixth minute with a free won by Mark Neville; it would be the only equaliser of the final. Thereafter Commercials kicked on and by the 18th minute, following points from Joe Higgins (45), Alex Creed and a fisted effort from Tadgh Sheehan, led 0-4 to 0-1.
Fethard full-forward Charlie Walsh was impeded when cutting in along the end line and converted the free himself in the 19th minute to reduce the deficit, but briefly. If Fethard thought they were in with a shout that idea was dismissed very quickly.
Joe Higgins receiving his man-of-the-match award from John Lonergan
Michael Connellan was twice involved in the build up to Commercials first goal before setting up Alex Creed to find the back of the net in the 21st minute. And within a minute the scoreline was out to 2-4 to 0-2 when Commercials unpicked the Fethard backline with a move linking Jack Lawlor and Niall Deely before midfielder Darragh O’Connor finished the move off with a well-taken goal.
In the run-up to half-time Charlie Walsh and Joe Higgins (won by Cillian McNamara) exchanged frees and when Michael Guinan’s short whistle arrived bang on 30 minutes, Commercials were comfortably ahead by eight points. Unlike the final 12 months earlier when all they could manage in the second half was a single point, there was to be no let up under the Duneske floodlights.
Twenty-four seconds into the half Matt Coen had Fethard’s only point from play, well deserved after a good break through the Commercials defence. However, within two minutes of the restart Commercials had their third goal and again Michael Connellan played his part setting up Jack Lawlor whose parried effort trickled over the line off the foot of the post giving his side a 10-points advantage.
It was all fairly dull and academic after that with the destination of the cup decided with a full half-hour’s football still to play. A scoreless 12 minutes ensued before Matt Coen sent over a free, followed by a shared pair of frees from Alex Creed and Matt Coen (which incidentally was ‘The Blues’ last score of the night).
With 10 minutes remaining Commercials were still way out there and coasting at 3-6 to 0-6.
Alex Creed then had an opportunist’s point after reacting quickest to Jamie’s O’Keeffe’s effort coming back high off the upright, and the same player added another point in the 55th minute when converting a mark from 30 metres out towards the sideline.
Alex Creed then rounded off a night to remember for himself with a beeline goal in the 59th minute when bursting through the middle and sending a rocket past Ben Allen to the roof of the net.
Michael Connellan finished the scoring with a well-merited point after a fine personal display in the final.
Clonmel Commercials: Harry Ryan, Matthew Ó Ceallaigh, Michael Connellan (0-1), Alex McSharry, Thomas Charles, Tadgh Sheehan (0-1), Billy Tierney, Mark Corcoran, Darragh O’Connor (1-1), Niall Deely, Joe Higgins (0-2, 0-1F, 0-1×45), Jamie O’Keeffe, Alex Creed (2-4, 0-1F, 0-1M), Jack Lawlor (1-0), Cillian McNamara.
Sub: Darragh Landers for Deely (43 mins), James Power for Lawlor (56 mins), Max O’Dwyer for McSharry (60 mins).
Fethard: Ben Allen, Jack Stokes, Michael James Phelan, Rory O’Mahoney, Charlie Hackett, Noah O’Flynn, Liam Kiely, Andrew Connerton, Gavin Neville, John Lacey, Jack Quinlan, Jack Davey, Matt Coen (capt, 0-4, 0-3F), Charlie Walsh (0-2F), Mark Neville.
Subs: Oisin Ryan and Danny Barry for Davey and Lacey (half-time); Alec Knightly, James Barry and Sam Coen for Stokes, O’Flynn and Walsh (56 mins).
FBD Insurance Tipperary Premier Intermediate Hurling Championship Quarter-Final
GORTNAHOE/GLENGOOLE 4-18 ST MARY’S 0-13
Gortnahoe/Glengoole put Clonmel side St Mary’s to the sword in the quarter-final of the FBD Insurance Tipperary Premier Intermediate Hurling Championship played at Clonoulty on Sunday afternoon, coming out on top by a massive 17 points at the end of a very one-sided encounter.
A crazy three-goals-in-three-minutes for the Mid Tipperary side between the 11th and 13th minutes killed off the game as a contest, and for a third consecutive year at the knockout stages in Premier Intermediate Hurling the South representatives had to settle for second best against the same opponents.
The first 10 minutes of a free-flowing game, after which Gortnahoe led by 0-3 to 0-2, suggested an entertaining hour’s hurling was ahead for the patrons at a sunny Dillon Quirke Park. But quickly and mercilessly the Reds exposed St Mary’s punishing them with a rapid match-winning three-goal salvo and thereafter the game was little more than a Sunday stroll in the park for the Kevin Corbett managed side.
By the time the half-time whistle arrived Gortnahoe had stretched their lead to 15 points, 3-10 to 0-4, St Mary’s failing to score again from play after the 12th minute of the half. Indeed that point would be their last from play until the 62nd minute, the unbeaten-up-to-this St Mary’s going an incredible 50 minutes of hurling without registering a single point from play. It will be a statistic and a day that they will want to forget quickly on the Western Road.
Gortnahoe/Glengoole have been knocking on the door at the concluding stages of this competition since their promotion in 2020 and now that they are back in the last four will be hoping to at least get to a final which they did in 2022 before losing out to Roscrea. On the evidence of their performance here, they will be quietly confident of making another breakthrough in 2024.
St Mary’s had the first two points of the game from Ross Peters and Cathal Deely inside six minutes, but three in-a-row for Gortnahoe from Adrian Maher, Keane Hayes and midfielder Jack Moore edged them in front after 10 minutes.
A linking move involving four players starting with goalkeeper’s Timmy Dunne’s short pass went the length of the field before Damien Corbett finished a low rocket past Enda Dunphy in the 11th minute for Gortnahoe’s first goal.
While Ross Peter replied almost immediately with a point from a difficult angle for St Mary’s, pressure from Gortnahoe then forced a St Mary’s turnover at halfway which ultimately made its way to Darragh Maher to punish them with another close-in low shot that again gave the keeper no chance.
And incredibly within a minute Gortnahoe were celebrating their third goal, this time Damien Corbett’s ground strike rattling the back of the net with the St Mary’s defence at sixes-and-sevens.
Tails up now, it seemed the Mid side were cutting through the heart of an out-of-shape St Mary’s rearguard at will, Fionn Cleary and Jack Moore adding further points to leave the scoreline reading 3-5 to 0-3 at the end of the first quarter.
After Ronan Teehan pointed to further extend the Gortnahoe advantage, St Mary’s had a great chance of goal when Ross Peters played Niall Hoctor through but a weak shot was well parried by Timmy Dunne. Nothing was going the way of the Clonmel side.
Unusually the game had to wait until the 24th minute for a point from a free, Enda Dunphy scoring for St Mary’s, before Gortnahoe added four points without reply before the break from Man of the Match Brian Nolan, Jack Moore and two Keane Hayes frees.
At the short whistle Gortnahoe/Glengoole led 3-10 to 0-4.
The second half was memorably forgetful, the team in front going through their paces and stretching their advantage to 20 points (4-15 to 0-7) midway through the half with their fourth goal. A Darragh Maher pass found Adrian Maher inside who again blasted low, but the move should have been cut out by a St Mary’s defender who failed to gather the low sliotar.
During that second half Gortnahoe/Glengoole also hit five from play via Darragh Maher (2), the impressive wing-back Conor Gleeson (2) and Keane Hayes, the latter also adding three from frees.
It would take the Clonmel side until the 32nd minute of the second half to register their first from play, Sean Kennedy scoring with virtually the last puck of the game. Their other eight second half points were from Sean Kennedy (0-7 frees) and a 65 from goalkeeper Enda Dunphy. Having arrived at the West Tipperary venue with high hopes of overturning the previous two years of disappointment against their rivals, St Mary’s departed further than ever from achieving their ambition. While the Clonmel side can look back on their 2017 county intermediate final win against Gortnahoe/Glengoole, the Mid side are definitely having the better of it these days.
This was an impressive team performance from the winners who hurled intelligently right through, keeping shape and to a plan. The back unit, led by centre-back Brian Maher with captain Davy Nolan behind him, conceded just four points from play in an hour. Midfielders Jack Moore, Liam Hayes and Fionn Cleary had by far the better of that territory while all six forwards got on the scoresheet, the opportunism of the goals top notch.
They now join Carrick Swan, Upperchurch/Drombane and Cashel King Cormacs in the semi-finals.
St Mary’s will be bitterly disappointed, not so much with the result but with the performance of the occasion; it was a day when nothing went right for them. Those three early goals totally deflated the side and they never got near to rising a comeback after that. Ross Peters, Sam Ryan, Conor Deely and Tadhg Sheehan tried hardest.
Gortnahoe/Glengoole: Timmy Dunne, Enda McCarthy, Davy Nolan (capt), Aidan Guilfoyle, Conor Gleeson (0-2), Brian Maher (0-1), Davy Lanigan, Jack Moore (0-3), Liam Hayes, Adrian Maher (1-1), Ronan Teehan (0-1), Fionn Cleary (0-1), Damian Corbett (2-1, 0-1F), Keane Hayes (0-6, 0-4F), Darragh Maher (1-2).
Subs: Gearóid Fahy for Guilfoyle (HT), Kevin Slattery for A. Maher (50 mins), Tomás Meaney for McCarthy (53 mins), Colm Guilfoyle for Nolan (53 mins), Oisín Cleary for Hayes (56 mins),
St Mary’s: Enda Dunphy (0-2, 0-1D, 0-1×65), Tadhg Condon, Ross Slattery (capt), Josh Ryan, Darragh O’Connor, Tadhg Sheehan, Sam Ryan, Conor Deely, Richie Gunne, Cathal Deely (0-1), Sean Kennedy (0-8, 0-7F), Micheál Murphy, Peter McGarry, Niall Hoctor, Ross Peters (0-2).
Subs: Thomas Charles for Murphy (HT), James Power for Hoctor (HT), Joe Higgins for Cathal Deely (44 mins), Eoghan Walsh for Slattery (48 mins), Oisín Forristal for Peters (58 mins).
A member of the Tipperary minor team that won the All-Ireland hurling title in 2022, Tom Delaney showed his undoubted star quality with a standout display in propelling Cahir to the South Tipperary Junior B hurling crown on Saturday with victory over St Patrick’s. Way too good for this grade of competition, Delaney hit 3-9 of his side’s 4-11 total as Cahir overcame a gallant St Patrick’s by four points in the end of an entertaining decider at Ned Hall Park in Clonmel.
Man-of-the-match Tom Delaney accepts the trophy from John Quirke.
Three consecutive scores without reply – all goals – between the 11th and 20th minutes of the first half, two from Tom Delaney frees – put Cahir ten points clear at that early stage of the game. At the interval they had a match-winning dozen points in hand but full credit to St Patrick’s who hauled themselves back into the game in the second period to get within three points, but ultimately Cahir were not to be denied.
Delaney’s score-taking ability was the difference with the young Cahir player also adding a second half penalty, six frees and three superb points from play. He was the only Cahir player to score in the second half, with Evin O’Regan (1-1) and Mark Casey (0-1) the others contributing to the side’s tally. There’s never such a thing as a one-man show in a team game, but if there was this was as close as it comes.
Competing in their second divisional junior hurling final in six days – St Patrick’s lost the ‘A’ final to Moyle Rovers last Sunday – St Patrick’s were first on the scoreboard within a minute from a Shane Gorey free. It would be their only time in the ascendancy in the decider and by the 20th minute they trailed by 3-3 to 0-2, their other point, also from Shane Gorey in the sixth minute.
Cahir were a point to the good at 0-3 to 0-2 (two Delaney frees bookending a superb long range point from ciotóg Mark Casey) before the game’s first goal arrived in the 11th minute. A well-placed Conor Casey pass put Sean O’Connor on a run towards goal only to be unceremoniously taken out. Up stepped Tom Delaney to go low with the free and while a defender got a touch on it, the sliotar still ended up in the back of the net for 1-3 to 0-2.
The goal of the game followed in the 18th minute scored by lively corner-forward Evin O’Regan who jinked in along the end line beating two tackles before sending a low screamer to the far corner of the net.
And within two minutes that lead was out to all of 10 points when Tom Delaney sent another free bobbling along the ground beyond the five-man goalline wall, a soft concession that St Patrick’s would have been very disappointed with. The free itself was won by Delaney, the referee adjudging that he was being held before the ball was delivered into the forward line.
An excellent Conor Brett point from near the corner flag was the first score in 14 minutes for a shell-shocked St Patrick’s, but two Tom Delaney frees extended the Cahir lead to 11 points at 3-5 to 0-3 after 24 minutes.
In the closing minutes of the half Cahir added three superb points from play from Delaney (2) and O’Regan, the Drangan/Cloneen side responding with a Conor Brett free and a point from Gerard Horan when goalkeeper Conor Kirwan did very well to touch Horan’s effort over the crossbar. At the interval Cahir looked to be in an unassailable position leading 3-8 to 0-5.
Cahir goalkeeper Kirwan was called on early in the first minute of the second period to pull off another fine save, before Aaron Cronin opened the second half scoring with a St Patrick’s point.
Two further Delaney points (one free) nullified a Conor Brett free and Cahir were still 12 to the good seven minutes into the second period before St Patrick’s began to make some inroads.
Three points within 90 seconds from Conor Brett (free), Shane Gorey (from the sideline at halfway) and Damian Barry made it a 3-10 to 0-10 game by the 40th minute.
With St Patrick’s making use of a stiffening breeze they made further inroads into their deficit with a long-range Jack Cleere free and an outstanding solo effort from wing-back Frank Meagher who ran 40 yards down the wing before pointing.
Crucially that momentum was disrupted in the 50th minute when Cahir substitute Brian Enright was hauled down after winning a high delivery and referee John Flynn signalled for a penalty. Up stepped Delaney to deliver his hat-trick when giving Paddy Moroney no chance in the St Patrick’s goal.
Once again ten points adrift with 10 minutes remaining, lesser sides would have thrown in the towel but not the Anner Park boys.
Two Conor Brett frees began yet another attempt from the foot of the mountain for St Patrick’s. They got a break in the 60th minute when a shot by Frank Meagher was caught by Conor Kirwan, but the umpire was adamant that the Cahir custodian had stepped behind the line in doing so. At 4-10 to 1-14 and just five points separating the sides, suddenly a nervousness appeared in the Cahir ranks and within a minute two further points from play from James Ryan and Nicky Kearney had St Patrick’s within a puck of the ball.
However, man of the match Tom Delaney sealed the win with a Cahir free from 65 metres, much to the relief of their followers, leaving the full-time score reading Cahir 4-11 St Patrick’s 1-16.
Besides the already mentioned performance of Tom Delaney, there was plenty to admire in the efforts of Evin O’Regan, captain Ger Hally, Daniel Moloney, Tom O’Gorman and Mark Casey for the winners.
Full credit to St Patrick’s who apart from that disastrous period in the first half were a match for the winners. There were workmanlike displays Sean Ryan, Keith Morrissey, Frank Meagher, Shane Gorey, Jack Meagher, Conor Brett and Gerard Horan, with four of the subs introduced getting on the scoreboard.
It’s been a disappointing fortnight for the St Patrick’s hurlers with defeat now in three South finals, Under 19 B, Junior A and Junior B. However, a common denominator in all deciders was undoubted heart and effort and never-say-die attitude. Despite recent results the St Patrick’s hurlers are going in the right direction.
TEAMS AND SCORERS
Cahir: Conor Kirwan, Keelan Looby, Kieran O’Dwyer, Thomas Molan, Mark Casey (0-1), Ger Hally (capt), Eoghan Kelly, Daniel Moloney, Niall McKenna, Sean O’Connor, Conor Casey, Tom O’Gorman, Tom Delaney (3-9, 2-6F, 1-0 pen), Johnny B O’Brien, Evin O’Regan (1-1).
Subs: Oisin Maher for McKenna McKenna, Brian Enright for O’Gorman, Dara Heffernan for O’Brien, Aidan Casey for O’Regan, Liam Meehan for Looby.
St Patrick’s: Paddy Moroney, Sean Ryan, Conor Gorey, Keith Morrissey, Brian O’Halloran, Colm Dunne, Frank Meagher (1-1), Shane Gorey (0-3, 0-1F), Jack Meagher, Jamie Brett, Robbie Noonan, Ciarán Mockler, Conor Brett (0-6, 0-5F), Aaron Cronin (0-1), Gerard Horan (0-1).
Subs: Jack Cleere (0-1F) for O’Halloran, Damien Barry (0-1) for Brett, Nicky Kearney (0-1) for Dunne, James Ryan (0-1) for C. Gorey, Eoin Fitzgerald for Mockler.
South Tipperary John Quirke Jewellers Junior ‘A’ Hurling Final
MOYLE ROVERS 1-22 ST PATRICK’S 0-18
Twelve months on from the disappointment of a shock defeat in the final to Clonmel Og, Moyle Rovers made no mistake this time round with a seven-points victory over St Patrick’s in the South Tipperary John Quirke Jewellers Junior ‘A’ Hurling Final played at Kilsheelan on Sunday afternoon.
The game’s decisive period was the second quarter when the Monroe side put clear daylight between themselves and their opponents, outscoring them by 1-10 to 0-5 during that purple patch of play. First half substitute Stephen Quirke made a huge difference following his introduction after only six minutes for the injured Sean Keating, and it was Quirke’s four first half points plus a well-finished goal by Dean English that gave Moyle Rovers a cushion they never fully relinquished.
At the interval Rovers were full value for their eight points advantage, 1-13 to 0-8.
Credit to St Patrick’s who despite facing into the breeze and the loss of a player through a red card in the 50th minute put it up to their more seasoned rivals in the second half. Despite the odds, the Anner Park side had narrowed the gap to three points with three minutes of normal time remaining, thanks in no small way to the huge contribution of Cathal Foley. But John McGrath’s side, calling on that extra reserve of experience, stemmed the tide with Stephen Quirke and Luke Delahunty hitting a pair of vital points each at the end to finally seal the deal.
The opening minutes were tit-for-tat, the sides level on three occasions in a low-scoring first quarter. Cathal Foley’s first free of the day gave St Patrick’s their only lead in this final and it was 0-3 each after 13 minutes. Within a minute of his introduction Stephen Quirke had a goal chance for Rovers but Johnny Moroney did very well to deny a well drilled low effort. The highlight points of that opening period came at opposite ends scored from distance by Stephen Quirke and Tony O’Brien out on the sideline.
The Powerstown/Lisronagh parishioners soon began to find their range hitting six of the next seven points from Rory Collins, Stephen Quirke (2x65s), Kevin Grace, Luke Delahunty and a Dara Ryan (free) softly given, with St Patrick’s only mustering an Aidan Fitzgerald point in response.
There was no doubt that Rovers were enjoying far more possession and should well have been further ahead than 0-9 to 0-5 at this juncture but a half dozen wides and balls dropping short were disrupting their haymaking.
St Patrick’s tried to pull themselves back into the game with excellent points from Tony O’Brien, Cathal Mahoney and Cathal Foley, but Rovers were matching them with quality points of their own from Riain Quigley and Stephen Quirke leaving the scoreline at 0-11 to 0-7 before the game’s only goal arrived.
Having lived dangerously on a few occasions up to this, St Patrick’s were punished just before half-time. Stephen Quirke and Dara Ryan were involved in teasing open the defence and when the chance fell to corner-forward Dean English he rattled the net from close range.
Before the interval Cathal Foley (free) and Riain Quigley traded points to send Moyle Rovers to the break eight points clear.
Like in the first half a Cathal Foley free opened the account after two minutes and immediately St Patrick’s had a big chance of a goal when Foley played Tony O’Brien through but somehow Brian Gleeson’s goal stayed intact before Jamie Broderick pointed the recycled ball. It was a big moment in the game and St Patrick’s could have done with a green flag then.
At the three-quarter mark Rovers were still those eight points clear at 1-18 to 0-13, Cathal Foley keeping St Patrick’s ticking over with three points (two frees) to scores for Rovers from Killian Butler (2), Man of the Match Stephen Quirke and Dara Ryan (free).
Backs to the wall now, St Patrick’s began to assert themselves more and point by point they narrowed that gap with five points without reply in a 12-minute period from William Cleere, Cathal Foley (3, one free) and Cian Cranitch, with the Foley brace from play particularly rousing for the Cloneen/Drangan followers.
Half-way through that 12-minute revival St Patrick’s were reduced to 14 men when referee Michael Kennedy had no hesitancy in red-carding Tony O’Brien; and last week’s Man of the Match Junior Football Final goalkeeper had no arguments with the decision against him.
Suddenly, Rovers, who had been cruising along for most of the game, now only had a puck of the ball to spare at 1-18 to 0-18 with all the momentum with St Patrick’s. However, an excellent point from a difficult angle by Luke Delahunty, when they needed it most, settled the Rovers. Stephen Quirke then sent over a monster of a free from well inside his own 65 for more breathing space, before two from play from Delahunty and Quirke ensured the Seamus Maher Cup was heading down the Scotch Road again for 2024.
For Moyle Rovers there were fine displays in defence from the McKeown brothers, Cathal and Brian, Ben Owens and Shane Ryan. Rian Quigley and Kevin Grace got through huge work at midfield. All six of the starting forwards scored, while it was 2015 Tipperary All-Ireland final minor captain, Stephen Quirke, who stood out most with a seven points contribution, four from play and three long distance frees.
Following last weekend’s Junior Football South Final win, this week has been disappointing for the hurlers of St Patrick’s with two final defeats, U19B and Junior A. Still they can take heart from this performance and the manner in which they battled against a physically stronger opposition. There was a lot to admire from the efforts of Evan Holohan, Pauric O’Brien, Cathal Mahoney, Cian Cranitch at midfield and Tony O’Brien, Daithí Hogan and in particular Cathal Foley who finished the day with 11 points. Their day will come before too long.
Moyle Rovers: Brian Gleeson, Cathal McKeown, Sean Keating, Brian McKeown, Luke Boland, Ben Owens, Shane Ryan, Riain Quigley (0-2), Kevin Grace (0-1), Killian Butler (0-3), Dara Ryan (capt., 0-4F), Rory Collins (0-1), Dean English (1-0), Anthony Phelan (0-1), Luke Delahunty (0-3)
Subs: Stephen Quirke (0-7, 0-2×65, 0-1F) for Keating (inj, 6 mins); Daire Luttrell for Phelan (46 mins); Conor McGrath for Grace (54 mins); Nathan Croke for S. Ryan (60+1); Sean Hackett for Butler (60+2).
St Patrick’s: Johnny Moroney, Conor Duggan, Pauric O’Brien, Evan Holohan, Eoin Ryan, Cathal Mahoney (0-1), Michael Boland, Ryan Cranitch, Cian Cranitch (0-1), Cathal Foley (0-11, 0-7F), Aidan Fitzgerald (0-1), William Cleere (0-1), Tony O’Brien (0-2), Richie Needham, Daithí Hogan.
Subs: Bill Cuddihy for Ryan Cranitch (HT); Jamie Broderick (0-1) for Ryan; Finn Madigan for Boland (45 mins).
South Tipperary Junior ‘C’ Football Final CARRICK DAVINS 4-16 CLONMEL OG 0-9
Carrick Davins were comfortable winners of the South Tipperary Junior ‘C’ Football Final when accounting for Clonmel Og by a margin of 19 points in a one-sided decider played at Kilsheelan on Saturday evening. Quickly into their stride from the throw-in the Carrick-on-Suir side were 1-8 to 0-1 ahead within 18 minutes thanks in the main to a third minute goal from John Murphy. However, it was in the second half that they really kicked on with three further goals while cruising to victory by 4-16 to 0-9 at a sensibly blown-early final whistle.
The sides had met earlier in the competition when the Reds prevailed by six points but a much closer final was expected this time around with silverware on offer. However, as it transpired the destination of the trophy was known all too early in what proved to be a disappointing divisional final. Following Conor O’Leary’s game-opening point, it only took two and a half minutes for the first goal to arrive when John Murphy scored for Davins with a rocket low past Johnny Cagney. Over the next 15 minutes, in a dominant performance, the Davins out-pointed their rivals by seven to one, all scores coming from open play.
With the skilful Carrick Davins captain Adam Foran directing affairs from midfield, their seven points were scored by John Murphy (2), Mikey Ryan (2), Ray Cooke, Mark Roche and Kevin Butler. In the opening 18 minutes Clonmel Og’s solitary white flag was raised by midfielder Griffin O’Keeney.
The second quarter saw the Eoin Fallon managed Clonmel side enjoy their best spell of the hour and in the run-up to half-time they added five points to just two conceded.
In the 19th minute corner-back Alex Greene joined the Clonmel Og attack to send over a point and soon afterwards Jake O’Donnell with a free made it 1-8 to 0-3. Davins centre-forward Mikey Ryan then had his third point of the final when finishing a move which involved Patrick Harris and Kevin Butler in the making. The lead was back out to eight points by the 23rd minute when John Murphy tagged on a free.
Three unanswered points went the way of ‘The Óg’ in the final five minutes of the first half including two excellent efforts from centre-forward Dean Kelleher who took on the Davins defence twice with incisive running and finished both efforts well. In between that Kelleher brace, Jake O’Donnell added a free.
At half-time Carrick Davins were still comfortably seven points up and looking all-over winners when leading 1-10 to 0-3.
Referee Paddy Ivors had to restart the second half a second time after just 20 seconds when Clonmel Óg goalkeeper Johnny Cagney was late for the throw-in. The former county senior footballer’s first action was retrieving the ball from the back of his net when a move up the right wing by Davins’ Kevin Butler fed Mark Roche and he cut in along the end line to find the net. Now ten points to the good, the Stephen Cronin managed Davins were home and hosed.
Man of the match Adam Foran and the influential Patrick Harris extended the advantage to a dozen with a point apiece before Clonmel Og hit back with two points in a minute from Alex Slattery and Simon Ahearne from a tight angle.
Davins’ third goal – and Mark Roche’s second of the final – came at the end of the third quarter to stretch the lead out to 13 points. Clonmel Og had their final score of the game in the 46th minute, a free from Sean Cagney won by the lively Johnny Stokes who was proving a handful since his second half introduction.
Down the stretch it was all one-way traffic with further points from Lee Mackey, Adam Foran (a free off the ground from 45 metres) and Alan Redmond after good work by Jake Maher.
There was a somewhat poignant conclusion to the game, in what was a sad week for the Faulkner family and the Davins club in general. Just two days after the funeral of the highly regarded and well respected Alan Faulkner, a stalwart for the club over his lifetime, his son Luke banged home the Davins fourth goal. His late father would have loved to have seen it and share in the win. The final score of the game was a sweet point from an angle scored by Alan Redmond.
Prior to the throw-in for the final, a minute’s silence was observed as a mark of respect to the late Alan Faulkner, Carrickbeg, who died on 31st August. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.
Carrick Davins: Anthony Keyes, Liam Butler, Willie O’Dwyer, Conor Corcoran, Patrick Harris (0-1), Ray Cooke (0-1), Aaron O’Halloran, Adam Foran (capt., 0-2, 0-1F), Lee Mackey (0-1), Conor Mackey, Mikey Ryan (0-3), Kevin Butler (0-1), Conor O’Leary (0-1), Mark Roche (2-1), John Murphy (1-3, 0-1F).
Subs: Alan Redmond (0-2) for O’Leary (44 mins); Charlie O’Sullivan for Butler (48 mins); Conor O’Shea for Corcoran (53 mins); Shane Cronin for L. Butler (53 mins); Luke Faulkner (1-0) for K. Butler (53 mins).
Clonmel Og: Johnny Cagney, TJ Quigley, Sean Barrett, Alex Greene (0-1), Dean Slattery, Marc Ahearne, Alex Slattery (0-1), Simon Ahearne (0-1), Griffin O’Keeney (0-1), Max Ryan, Dean Kelleher (0-2), Kyle Grant, Karl Kearney, Jake O’Donnell (0-2F), Cian Hogan.
Subs: Eoin Condon for Hogan (21 mins); Sean Cagney (0-1F) for O’Donnell (35 mins); Johnny Stokes for Grant (40 mins); Noel Walsh for Kearney (48 mins); Jack Sweeney for Ryan (55 mins); Eoin Fallon for Greene (57 mins).
FBD Insurance Tipperary Senior Football Championship Group 1 Round 3
KILSHEELAN/KILCASH 2-12 JK BRACKENS 0-12
Kilsheelan/Kilcash guaranteed themselves a place in the quarter-finals of this year’s FBD Insurance County Senior Football Championship when accounting for previously unbeaten JK Brackens by six points on a glorious Saturday afternoon at Leahy Park, Cashel.
Having lost their opening game of the campaign to Ardfinnan, Liam Stokes’ side knew nothing less than a victory would suffice for a place in the last eight, and helped by two first half goals from Mark Kehoe and Liam Freaney, they were full value for their 2-12 to 0-12 win in the end.
Brackens survived by the skin of their teeth to hold on to the second quarter-final spot but it was way too close for comfort for the Templemore side. Had they exited the championship they would only have had themselves to blame when finishing with just 12 players on the field. As things worked out in the end Ardfinnan failed to get the win they needed against Grangemockler/Ballyneale, and the Shane Keegan managed Brackens were mightily relieved to advance to another day.
The Templemore side bolted from traps and were two points up within 90 seconds via Paddy Cadell and a Jack Kennedy free after Cadell had been illegally stopped.
Admirably the South Tipperary side responded well with a two-minute scoring spurt of their own which took them three points clear.
Firstly Billy O’Connor pointed after being played through by Mark Kehoe, quickly followed by Jamie Roche’s first free after Micheál Freaney was impeded.
The game’s opening goal arrived from the ensuing kick-out when county senior hurler Mark Kehoe forced a JKB turnover and powered through himself to drive low to the keeper’s right for a 1-2 to 0-2 lead for Kilsheelan.
After such a blistering start the scoring rate slowed and around the quarter hour mark Jamie Roche and Jack Kennedy traded frees, the latter score being the Mid side’s first in 15 minutes of play.
Forced to start without the injured Mark Stokes, it was another county man Daire Brennan who was popping up everywhere in a sweeping role. A well-worked point followed in the 18th minute for Billy O’Connor after Kilsheelan intelligently changed movement from one side of the field to the other. But Brackens had it back to three points in the 20th minute with a superb point from Jack Kennedy after his side had won their opponents’ kick-out.
A big moment in the game then arrived with the sending off of Dean McEnroe, the Brackens man catching Barry Kehoe to the torso right in front of the referee’s eyes. However, two minutes later, Kilsheelan were also temporarily reduced to 14 men when Conor Davin-Murphy was black carded for a foul on Brackens’ Jordan Moloney.
Paddy Cadell, with a very hard-earned point, closed the gap to two in the 24th minute, but that margin was brief for the numerically disadvantaged Templemore side.
Within a minute Kilsheelan’s second goal arrived when an effort at a point from 50 metres by roaming goalkeeper Evan Comerford fell just short and the towering Liam Freaney got on the end of it to skilfully touch the ball home. Five minutes from half-time it was double scores, Kilsheelan/Kilcash leading 2-4 to 0-5.
Jack Kennedy with another free pulled a point back for Brackens just before the lightning-fast Mark Kehoe broke through and might have goaled again but his effort rose just over the crossbar on this occasion.
Brackens had the last two points of the first half, a mark from Jack Kennedy and one from play from Lyndon Fairbrother after Paddy Cadell had done all the spade work.
At the interval the scoreline read 2-5 to 0-8, and with their black card numerical advantage to return a minute into the second half it was looking good for qualification for Kilsheelan. And it soon got better with two early second half points for the South Tipp side.
The first of these came from the impressive Conor Neville when finishing a move which had linked the Freaney brothers in its making. The second, a 45 converted by Evan Comerford when Conor Davin-Murphy had forced an excellent diving save from Cian Sheedy.
Livewire Jamie Ormond had Brackens’ first score of the second half nine minutes in following good work by Jordan Moloney. But Kilsheelan would have been happy enough with the way things were progressing and staying four points clear when Jamie Roche and Jack Kennedy swapped further frees.
The industry of Mark Kehoe was evident in the next point, the centre-forward linking up three times in a move which brother Barry finished with a point. But that score was matched by another quality point off the left leg of James Corcoran in the 45th minute, which proved to be the last from play for either side.
At the three-quarters mark Kilsheelan were still four points to the good, 2-9 to 0-11 ahead.
They enjoyed the better of possession down the home straight with Jamie Roche tagging on two further frees, won by Mark Kehoe and Liam Freaney, with Conor Neville outstanding in the move which culminated in Freaney being impeded for the free.
Five down and with only five minutes remaining, Brackens suffered another setback when the too-hot-to-handle Mark Kehoe was hauled down and Paddy Cadell was black carded for the indiscretion. Jamie Roche again obliged with the close-in free for a worryingly increasing seven points deficit for Brackens.
Two minutes from the end of normal time Jack Kennedy put over his sixth free after Lyndon Fairbrother was fouled, but when Jordan Moloney was dismissed for a second yellow at the same time, attention quickly turned to the Ardfinnan v Grangemockler/Ballyneale game running simultaneously. Fortunately for the Brackens, Kilsheelan seemed content with what they had and as it transpired a late goal for Grangemockler at the other venue meant that that game would end in a worthless draw for Ardfinnan. Brackens had survived, but only just.
Kilsheelan/Kilcash: Evan Comerford (0-1×45), Conor Neville (0-1), Jason Madigan (capt), Tadhg McGuire, Emmet Butler, Daire Brennan, Billy O’Connor (0-2), Micheál Freaney, Billy Murphy, Tommy O’Connor, Mark Kehoe (1-1), Barry Kehoe (0-1), Jamie Roche (0-6F), Conor Davin-Murphy, Liam Freaney (1-0).
Subs: Senan Butler for Davin-Murphy (53 mins).
JK Brackens: Cian Sheedy, Jamie Bergin, Tom Murphy, Martin Delaney, Stevie Cahill, Eanna McBride, Jordan Moloney, Adrian Burke, Shane Doyle, Paddy Cadell (0-2), Conor Cadell, Lyndon Fairbrother (0-1), Dean McEnroe, Jack Kennedy (0-7, 0-5F, 0-1M), Jamie Ormond (0-1).
Subs: Michael Cahill for S Cahill (40 mins); James Corcoran (0-1 for Doyle (43 mins).
St Mary’s are South Tipperary Under 19 A hurling champions for the fourth year in-a-row after a storming final quarter earned them a four-points victory over Killenaule at a new-look Kilsheelan on Wednesday evening.
The Clonmel side who had trailed by six points at the interval were still that half-dozen in arrears midway through the second period before outscoring their opponents 2-7 to 0-3 in a rousing finish.
Killenaule looked to be in control of matters when leading by 2-15 to 1-12 well into the second period with St Mary’s having made no inroads into their half-time deficit despite the breeze at their backs. However, a superb goal in the 46th minute from wing-back Jack Lawlor seemed to change the course of the game. The Clonmel side, managed by senior player Richie Gunne, then tagged on the next four points within three minutes to edge in front as the game entered the final 10 minutes.
Briefly Killenaule restored parity with a free, but all the momentum was now with St Mary’s and their third goal of the evening, four minutes from the end of normal time, from Aaron Cagney, put the game beyond the Robins. For the second time in a week the Western Road representatives had scored an important victory over their rivals, their senior side having defeated Killenaule in the Premier Intermediate Championship five days earlier.
Kilsheelan GAA Field was hosting its first final in over two years at the extended and redeveloped facility with everything in pristine condition for this much anticipated decider. The sides had drawn in their round-robin game weeks ago and they continued point for point in the early stages, level three times over the first eight minutes.
The Clonmel side had nudged 0-5 to 0-3 ahead by the 11th minute with four of their five points from play from Darragh Landers, Finn Napier, Harry Lawlor and Alex Creed added to by Aaron Cagney’s first free of the final. The Killenaule responses all came from Darragh Doyle, one from play and two frees.
The holders were rocked back on their heels by a Luke Ryan goal for Killenaule in the 12th minute when the full-forward caught a long delivery from Tony Ryan and rounded his marker to place low past the St Mary’s captain, Cian Corcoran.
The Bubbles O’Dwyer-managed Killenaule then hit a purple patch with six of the next seven points to lead 1-9 to 0-6 by the 25th minute. Hurling well at this stage, their white flags were raised by Oisin Shelly, Darragh O’Gorman (3), Luke Ryan and Darragh Doyle (free); St Mary’s solitary reply a Harry Lawlor free. Darragh O’Gorman was the man of the moment as the first half drew to a close, his pace and stickwork proving a real headache for the St Mary’s defenders.
Six down, the Mary’s needed a response and it came in the form of a goal scored by Finn Napier. The rock-solid centre-back Tadgh Sheehan found Niall Deely in creating the move and when corner-forward Napier was given his chance he took it with aplomb.
Killenaule captain Podge O’Dwyer and Niall Deely then traded points – the latter perhaps having a chance of a goal after his blistering run through the middle. From the puck-out that let-off seemed accentuated when Killenaule scored their second goal to go back in front by six. The Reds had the Clonmel defence at sixes-and-sevens and when a Luke Ryan effort came back off the bottom of the post, Darragh O’Gorman was in the right place to send a low effort to the back of the net.
The sides then shared a pair of excellent points from Oisin Shelly and Aaron Cagney before half-time at which stage Killenaule were ahead by 2-11 to 1-8. At that, they could hardly have been satisfied with the margin having hit nine first half wides to their opponents’ two; ultimately they would regret such largesse.
Like in the first half, the early exchanges of the second were pretty much tit-for-tat, four points each over the first quarter of a game that had gone a bit scrappy and heavy with poor ball control and unforced errors.
In that third quarter the Killenaule points came from Fionn Fitzgerald, Darragh Doyle (2, one free) and Oisin Shelly; St Mary’s replying via Niall Deely, Aaron Cagney (two frees) and a stand-out point from corner-back Thomas Charles who made huge ground up the wing before sending over a beauty off his left from 40 metres out.
Playing into the breeze, Killenaule would have been satisfied enough to be holding their own at 2-15 to 1-12 as the third quarter ended. St Mary’s needed things to start happening and the Lawlor brothers saw to that, combining in the creation and execution of their vital second goal. Harry found brother Jack with a fine pass and the wing-back cut in from the right sideline to blast a rocket past David McCormack in the Killenaule goal.
Right back in it now, four points followed in quick succession for St Mary’s from Harry Lawlor (2, one free), Aaron Cagney (free) and Niall Deely. Six-down was now one-up in just over six minutes of no-nonsense hurling. Killenaule seemed to have lost their composure and shape and St Mary’s were hurting them for it.
A Darragh Doyle free levelled matters briefly at 2-16apiece seven minutes from time. But in another burst the Clonmel side rattled off 1-2 without reply in two minutes to put one hand on the cup.
Harry Lawlor pointed from the tightest of angles for the lead before the match-clinching goal followed in the 56th minute. Niall Deely played a long delivery in around the house, Aaron Cagney fielded impressively, got around his man, and rattled the net. Game over.
In the closing minutes Cagney added on two frees for the winners, with a by now well-beaten Killenaule responding with points from Darragh Doyle (free) and the last score of the game from the never-say-die Nathan Barrett.
TEAMS AND SCORERS
ST MARY’S: Cian Corcoran (captain), Max O’Dwyer, David McSweeney, Thomas Charles (0-1), Jack Lawlor (1-0), Tadgh Sheehan, Darragh O’Connor, Darragh Landers (0-1), James Power, Alex Creed (0-1), Paul Maher, Aaron Cagney (1-7, 0-6F), Finn Napier (1-1), Harry Lawlor (0-5, 0-2F), Niall Deely (0-3).
Subs: Jamie O’Keeffe for Maher (HT).
KILLENAULE: David McCormack, Shane Ryan, Finn Nolan, Billy Smyth, Charlie Barrett, Owen O’Dwyer, Jimmy Ryan, Padge O’Dwyer (captain, 0-1), Nathan Barrett (0-1), Oisin Shelly (0-3), Fionn Fitzgerald (0-1), Tony Ryan, Darragh O’Gorman (1-3), Luke Ryan (1-1), Darragh Doyle (0-8, 0-6F).
Subs: Luke Fitzgerald for J. Ryan (40 mins); Daniel Charles for O’Dwyer (54 mins).
Now that the embodiment of sporting purity has ended, the Paris Olympics, our attention turns back towards the juggernaut of English football which encroaches on our lives more each year. It is simply unavoidable and dominates sporting headlines at the expense of other, often more relevant, sporting stories. A prime example being last Saturday morning, hours after Clonmel’s Donnacha Keeley and his Queen’s University partner, Ciaran Purdy, had won gold for Ireland at the World Under 23 Rowing Championships in Canada.
Salwa Eid Naser
RTE Sport filled their main morning sports program with news of Manchester United against Brighton later that day and zero mention of Irish gold medal success at a world championship. Very poor from the National Broadcaster. No mention in either the print or the online editions of the Irish Times, the paper of record, apparently. But plenty of coverage of the new Liverpool manager’s first home game at Anfield. Our local interest in the story, as it involves a Clonmel native, might cloud our view, but this was surely a story of national interest. And it got me thinking about another sports story that broke during the week which received little or no coverage in our national press and I had to resort to the Washington Post website to learn more. You are no doubt aware of the top four placings in the women’s 400-meter final in Paris. Ireland’s Rashidat Adeleke finished fourth. Bahrain’s, Salwa Eid Naser, won silver and her presence on the podium denied the young Irish girl an Olympic medal. For reasons that are not apparent, World Athletics waited until the Olympics were concluded before announcing the restrictions that had been imposed on Bahrain BEFORE this year’s Games took place. Firstly, they were restricted to just 10 athletes in track and field and this cap on participants will also apply to next year’s World Athletics Championships in Tokyo. Also, Bahrain are being forced to pause its rather successful strategy of naturalizing athletes from Africa. Naser was born, Ebelechukwu Agbapuonwu, in Nigeria. She declared for Bahrain in 2014 and went on to win the World Championship 400 meter title in Doha in 2019, running the third fastest time, ever. Naser would later serve a two-year ban, upheld by the Court of Arbitration in Sport (CAS) for missing three out-of-competition tests. The CAS decision to uphold the ban, on appeal, described her behaviour as ‘undeniably negligent and cannot be excused’. Naser’s ban ended last year and she was free to compete in Paris. But what was deliberately withheld from the public and the media until last week was the fact that the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU)of World Athletics has found that Bahrain has some serious questions to answer. My problem is that those questions were not in the public domain when their athletes competed in Paris and so journalists would be oblivious to the inconsistency. No hard questions at press conferences, apart from a handful of Irish journalists who tried to press Naser on her ban. Would that they had been in possession of the full facts? The AIU has forced Bahrain to spend $7.3 million over four years to address the doping and integrity risk in athletics in Bahrain. It begs a fundamental question, why wasn’t Bahrain given an outright ban? Why were 10 athletes allowed to compete? Where did the number 10 come from and what allowed an already banned athlete to be included in this group of 10? Bahrain has form in this regard. The men’s 1500-meter gold medallist in Beijing was Rashid Ramzi of Bahrain. If you look back at the race, Ramzi literally runs away with it, and seemed barely out of breath as he crossed the finishing line. Ramzi was an average athlete, born in Morocco and named Rachid Khoula. He joined the Bahrain military in 2001, and a name change was part of the deal. He was allowed time and space to train as he wished and burst onto the world stage at the 2005 World Championships in Helsinki winning the 800 meter and 1500-meter double. He was subsequently stripped of his Olympic gold medal when samples, taken in Beijing in 2008, were retrospectively retested in 2009 and traces of CERA were found; CERA is a modern version of EPO, previously thought to be undetectable. Kenyan, Asbel Kiprop was awarded the gold 14 months after the gold medal ceremony had taken place in the Bird’s Nest Stadium in Beijing. Before you feel sorry for Kiprop, he was handed a four-year ban in 2018 for doping. He still has his Olympic Gold and three World Championship gold medals. Bahrain won two track medals in Paris, Kenya born Winifred Yavi won gold in the 3000-meter steeplechase and Naser’s 400-meter silver. It is important to note that neither athlete was accused of any wrongdoing when World Athletics made its announcement last Thursday. The Bahrain Athletics Association admitted a charge of “conducting itself in relation to doping, negligently and/or recklessly and/or so as to prejudice the interests of World Athletics or bring the sport of athletics into disrepute,” and another related to its employment of staff to work with athletes. That followed an investigation into allegations two athletes used blood transfusions at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 and into the BAA having “engaged” a coach who was under a doping-related ban. A ban has also been imposed on Bahrain from competing in any other World Athletics Series events for 12 months from June 1, 2024. Their athletes, such as Naser, can continue to run in the Diamond League series as it is not part of the World Series. Hence Naser took to the track, and again finished second, in the Diamond League event in Silesia, Poland last Sunday. Apart from Ramzi and Naser, Bahrain athlete Kemi Adekoya, a former world indoor champion in the 400, got a four-year ban in 2019 in a steroid case and marathon runner Marius Kimutai was banned for three years in April after failing a drug test. If you are not disgusted by all of this, then you should be. The timing, if nothing else, places governance and credibility question marks over World Athletics. Moreover, it forces us to ask if the oil rich Gulf state is being treated a little differently to, Russia, for example. The scandal of Russian athletes taking illegal performance-enhancing drugs burst into public view in 2015 after a series of leaks and investigations. In November 2015, the entire Russian track and field team was suspended after an investigation by the World Anti-Doping Agency found what it called a “culture of cheating.” A 2016 report from the World Anti-Doping Agency identified more than 1,000 individuals linked to a Russian state-sponsored doping scheme between 2011 and 2014. Some of the individual athletes had won medals — including gold medals — in the 2014 Winter Olympics held in Sochi, Russia. The report referred to the doping scheme as an “institutional conspiracy” involving Russia’s secret service. The International Olympic Committee banned Russia in 2017 because of the scheme, but it gave individual athletes the chance to apply for admission to compete as “Olympic Athletes from Russia.” While 168 Russians passed the vetting process to participate in the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, South Korea, many others were banned. Dozens filed appeals with the Court of Arbitration for Sport, and Russia’s desperate attempt to get 45 banned athletes into Pyeongchang failed just hours before the opening ceremony. In 2019, the World Doping Agency voted to ban Russia from the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and the 2022 Beijing Winter Games over manipulated doping data. The ban not only ruled Russia out of the following Olympic cycle but also barred Russian government officials from attending major events. Russia also lost the right to host or even bid for tournaments. Whilst the size of athletics in Bahrain is smaller to that in Russia, the penalty that is being applied to Bahrain is far smaller than the one Russia faced. Incidentally, Russia’s non-participation in Paris was more to do with the invasion of Ukraine than any extension of a doping ban. So, where are we after all of this? Not a great deal is being made of this announcement around the world possibly because Bahrain only secured two Olympic medals and so the number of athletes affected by not medalling amounts to just two. Ireland’s Adeleke and the lady who finished fourth in the 3000-meter steeplechase, Alice Finot of France. That is a little simplistic as for some athletes, just making it to an Olympic Games is a huge achievement, the pinnacle of their athletics career. For others making an Olympic Final represents their Mount Everest. In short, whatever crimes Bahrain may have committed on the doping front, they are not victimless crimes. There are more Bahrain’s out there of course. Samples that tested negative in Paris will be retested in subsequent years as new agents emerge and doping authorities continue to play catch up with athletes. It took events at the 2008 Tour de France to alert doping authorities to the substance that might have been in Ramzi’s urine at that year’s Olympics. Regrettably, it seems that doping authorities are always one step behind. The revelations this week about Bahrain show clearly that something is rotten in the state of athletics.
FBD Insurance Premier Intermediate Hurling Championship Round 3 Group 4
ST MARY’S 1-15 KILLENAULE 0-13
St Mary’s are through to the quarter-finals of the FBD Insurance Premier Intermediate Hurling Championship following a well-deserved five-points victory over Killenaule at the Barracks Field in Fethard on Friday evening. Having already recorded group wins over Sean Treacy’s and Burgess, the undefeated Clonmel side now march on and will, no doubt, take great confidence from their first victory over Killenaule at this level in at least 30 years.
On the other hand, the Robins are now out of this year’s championship having also lost to Burgess in their opening group game. And after a heavy defeat to Carrick Swan in the South Senior Hurling Championship final at Monroe last month, 2024 has proven to be a very disappointing year for Killenaule hurling.
In-form St Mary’s arrived for this crunch game on the crest of a wave having upset the formbook the previous day with their 1-18 to 2-12 win over Burgess. And while they had the slight cushion of knowing a draw would be good enough to see them through against Killenaule, the Marys were also cognisant of the fact that they had suffered a heavy defeat to the same opposition in the South championship.
Too often the team in red has been the bogey side for St Mary’s at senior level, so much so that no one was exactly sure when they had last defeated the opposition. However, there was no doubting the determination that the Fergal Condon managed St Mary’s took to the field with on Friday night, and by the end of the first quarter they led 0-4 to 0-2. Just one of those six scores however, came from open play, a point in the sixth minute scored by Peter McGarry from a tight angle after an excellent crossfield pass by Sean Kennedy.
In that opening quarter Sean Kennedy (2) and goalkeeper Enda Dunphy with a long-range effort for St Mary’s, and Joe O’Dwyer (2) for Killenaule, had accounted for all the frees. St Mary’s had the ball in the back of the net after 11 minutes, scored by Niall Hoctor, but referee Tom McGrath had called back play for a free before Hoctor had goaled.
Killenaule had to wait until the 16th minute for their first point from play, scored by Padraig O’Dwyer. They had a great chance of a goal shortly afterwards when a move cut right through the Clonmel rearguard giving both Paudie Feehan and Luke Ryan chances to goal, but brave defending by St Mary’s somehow kept Killenaule at bay.
Frees for St Mary’s from Sean Kennedy and Enda Dunphy came either side of a Tom Stakelum effort for Killenaule to leave the team in white and blue ahead by 0-6 to 0-4 after 20 minutes.
Soon afterwards it was a level game though after Joe O’Dwyer sent over a free and then Eoin Shaw superbly converted from the sideline 45 metres out making it 0-6 apiece on 22 minutes.
Killenaule had a glorious chance to edge ahead for the first time in the 23rd minute but a close-in free was disappointingly sent wide. Crucially, they were never to get their noses in front over the hour.
A full 18 minutes on from their opening point from play, Peter McGarry raised a second following good work in the build-up by Conor Deely and James Power.
Then from the resultant puck-out it was McGarry again who reacted fastest to mop up a breaking ball and point from the halfway line to double his side’s lead.
Twenty seven minutes in St Mary’s Sammy Ryan, having lost his hurley, was forced into conceding a yellow-card tackle on Luke Ryan allowing Joe O’Dwyer to convert the free for Killenaule.
But the lead was soon back to two, the man responsible again none other than the impressive Peter McGarry with his fourth point from play. The Clonmel side were very fortunate to get away with that point, the sliotar clearly swept off the ground by a hand in the build-up. At the break St Mary’s led 0-9 to 0-7.
A slow start to the second period produced just three points in the opening 12 minutes, the Marys stretching their advantage out to three in the process.
Goalkeeper Enda Dunphy with a free from his own 65 metre line in the 32nd minute opened the second half account, before Paudie Feehan (Killenaule) and Darragh O’Connor (St Mary’s) finished off good moves for their respective teams with points.
Sean Kennedy, who shipped a lot of punishment over the hour, extended that Clonmel advantage to four by the 42nd minute when converting a long-range free from the sideline. But Killenaule kept applying pressure and earning frees, two in quick succession by Luke Ryan and Ciaran O’Dwyer from distance to leave just two points in it at the three-quarters mark.
The match-deciding score came in the 46th minute. Peter McGarry picked up an Enda Dunphy puck-out and ran at speed through the heart of the Robins’ defence before unselfishly offloading to Niall Hoctor who didn’t disappoint when finishing to the Killenaule goal. In a low-scoring encounter, on a wet and greasy surface, a five points advantage with 14 minutes to play was a sizable lead for the Clonmel side to hold.
Killenaule had an opportunity at an instant reply for a goal of their own when Paudie Feehan, Joe O’Dwyer and Tom Stakelum combined in a move up the field. But just when danger loomed most it took a superb intervention from St Mary’s corner-back Tadgh Condon to save his side’s bacon and clear the danger.
Killenaule were now at serious risk of elimination and one felt that that pressure was evident in the last 10 minutes. Repeatedly they tried to force a goal instead of playing the slower point-taking game and hoping the goal chances might create themselves.
Luke Ryan and Sean Kennedy swapped frees leaving five points still between the sides with seven minutes to play. And after Tom Stakelum sent over a point for the Robins, back came the Marys immediately with a rousing white flag. Conor Deely plucked the ball from the sky around midfield, fed brother Cathal who in turn provided an excellent pass for Peter McGarry to score his fifth of the evening. It definitely looked at this juncture that that long wait was about to come to an end for St Mary’s.
From play and frees, Killenaule kept delivering into the danger zone, but manfully St Mary’s had every answer and were unrelenting in their workrate, determination and bravery.
Three minutes from the end of normal time Luke Ryan had his final free of the evening for Killenaule, responded to in impressive fashion by the returning Ruairí Leahy with an over-the-shoulder effort from a tight angle at the town end.
Referee Tom McGrath added on five minutes of additional time and by now, left with no other option, Killenaule continued sending hopeful sliotars in, and St Mary’s never relented in batting all danger out, to finally get that Killenaule monkey off their back.
St Mary’s will be delighted with this hard-earned and long-awaited win. There was plenty to admire about their spirit and business-like approach right from the get-go. Captain Ross Slattery was soundness personified at full-back ably assisted by Tadgh Condon and Josh Ryan in the corners. The half back line of Darragh O’Connor, Tadhg Sheehan and Sammy Ryan got through a pile of work, contributing in a huge way in limiting Killenaule to just five points from open play.
The Mary’s midfield of Conor Deely and Richie Gunne held their own, while Peter McGarry was the standout player in the attack. Sean Kennedy and Enda Dunphy were also vital to the victory with their impressive free-taking.
This defeat marks the end of the road for Niall O’Dwyer’s Killenaule, who never hit the heights of other years this time around. A lack of composure at times, plus a few bad decisions at vital stages and some poor wides all contributed to the defeat. There were honest efforts all round though; Paddy Codd, Cian Johnson, Ciaran O’Dwyer, Jimmy Feehan, Tom Stakelum, Joe O’Dwyer and Paudie Feehan never gave up the chase.
St Mary’s: Enda Dunphy (0-3F), Tadgh Condon, Ross Slattery (capt), Josh Ryan, Darragh O’Connor (0-1), Tadhg Sheehan, Sammy Ryan, Conor Deely, Richie Gunne, James Power, Sean Kennedy (0-5F), Michael Murphy, Peter McGarry (0-5), Niall Hoctor (1-0), Gavin Ryan.
Subs: Ross Peter for G. Ryan (HT); Cathal Deely for Power (46 mins); Ruairí Leahy (0-1) for Hoctor (53 mins); Thomas Charles for Gunne (58 mins); Eoghan Walsh for Slattery (60+4 mins)
Killenaule: Joe Ceaser, Finn Nolan, Paddy Codd, Jack Hassett, Thomas Keaveney, Ciaran O’Dwyer (0-1F), Jimmy Feehan, Eoin O’Connell, Killian O’Dwyer, Joe O’Dwyer (capt, 0-4F), Luke Ryan (0-3F), Padraig O’Dwyer (0-1), Tom Stakelum (0-2), Eoin Shaw (0-1), Paudie Feehan (0-1).
Subs: Mark Stakelum for Keaveney (39 mins); Fionn Fitzgerald for O’Connell (43 mins).
Kilsheelan/Kilcash recorded their first win of their year’s County Senior Football Championship with a comfortable six points victory over Grangemockler/Ballyneale at Páirc na nEalaí, Carrick-on-Suir, on Saturday evening. In what was the first meeting of the neighbouring parishes at senior level for many years, the more experienced Suirsiders had too much in hand for last year’s county intermediate champions, the destination of the league points decided long before referee Seanie Peters called time.
With both sides having lost their opening games two weeks previously, it made this clash key for quarter-final ambitions. The result sets Kilsheelan up for a crunch battle with JK Brackens for a coveted last eight spot, while Grangemockler will face Ardfinnan, narrow victors over Kilsheelan on the opening day.
Despite being short quite a few from his wish list first 15 selection, Kilsheelan manager Liam Stokes will be happy that his side controlled things very much from the first quarter onwards. With county hurler Mark Kehoe the main driving force in a hugely energetic performance, they were already four points to the good by the 25th minute when the game’s only goal arrived. Tommy O’Connor set up Liam Freaney for a shot, and while the powerful effort was partly blocked by a defender, the deflection gave David Power no chance between the posts.
At the break Kilsheelan/Kilcash remained those seven points clear at 1-8 to 0-4 and looking very much like winners.
The second half was a more even affair, most notable perhaps for the scoring chances spurned by both sides and two excellent saves by Tipperary goalkeeper Evan Comerford, including a penalty from Manus McFadden in the 48th minute. The scoring went pretty much tit-for-tat, Kilsheelan extending their cushion out to nine points before a quick-fire trio of late points gave Grangemockler a somewhat flattering final scoreline.
Kilsheelan will be happy with this win and the chance to move on and improve against Brackens the next day. Grangemockler are finding the step up in grade difficult and may well be relieved that there are no relegation issues at stake in this their first year back at senior. With a minus 12 points difference after two games, they have another tough task ahead in two weeks time.
Liam Freaney opened the scoring in the second minute for Kilsheelan before Michael Meagher responded with an excellent point from the tightest of angles five minutes in. Jamie Roche had his first of six on the night two minutes later before Michael Meagher levelled matters for a second – and final – time in the 10th minute.
County senior custodian Evan Comerford struck a sweet free from 50 metres in the 14th minute to put Kilsheelan ahead again, an advantage doubled two minutes later when man of the match Mark Kehoe swivelled and sent over a point for an 0-4 to 0-2 lead.
Tommy O’Connor then earned his side a free converted by Jamie Roche in the 19th minute, and soon afterwards an unforced error of handling the ball on the deck, gave Evan Comerford another opportunity to display his superb long-range kicking ability, bisecting the posts from 45 metres out.
The value of a solid free taker was accentuated during those few minutes, as while Kilsheelan were availing of opportunities, their opponents saw two very kickable frees sail the wrong side of the uprights.
Kilsheelan then got a huge boost with Liam Freaney’s 25th minute goal to extend their lead to seven points at 1-6 to 0-2. Thereafter they were never troubled.
Sean Daly and Manus McFadden combined in a one-two move up the field in the 27th minute, with McFadden raising a white flag, but in a similar move in the opposite direction, Tadgh McGuire finished off a Kilsheelan passage of play when slotting over from 20 metres out.
Kilsheelan lost influential centre-back Mark Stokes through injury just before the break, his replacement, Sean Ryan, putting in a solid performance also.
In the dying moments of the opening half Mark O’Meara and Jamie Roche (with a huge punt from 50 metres) shared points leaving Kilsheelan seven up at the break, 1-8 to 0-4.
Point for point it went in the opening minutes of the second period with Brian Walsh and Leon Kennedy for Grangemockler swapping points with Kilsheelan via Jamie Roche (two frees) and Tommy O’Connor.
Then in a bizarre two minutes both sides spurned almost certain goals chances.
Firstly a turnover won by Mark Kehoe sent Kilsheelan racing through and when Liam Freaney pulled the final trigger the ball seemed to go along the goalline, hit an upright, and despite players rushing in and out, the ball miraculously, from a defender’s point of view, stayed out.
Two minutes later, at the other end, an attempt at a point from Ben Comerford came down off the upright into the hands of Leon Kennedy, and with only the keeper – but not just any keeper – to beat, Evan Comerford got down low to his left to superbly deny Kennedy. And Comerford wasn’t finished just yet either.
Sean O’Meara (G/B) and Conor Davin-Power (K/K) then traded points leaving the score at 1-12 to 0-7 midway through the second half. Twelve minutes from time the Charlie McGeever coached Grangemockler were thrown a lifeline in the form of a penalty won by the hard-working Sean O’Meara. Manus McFadden took on the responsibility but this time, diving low to his right, Comerford again broke the hearts of the team in the famous white and green jerseys.
In the dying minutes Jamie Roche stretched the lead to all of nine points with a free won by Mark Kehoe, before Grangemockler, in never say die spirit, hit three on the trot between the 56th and 59th minutes to put a more respectable gloss on it at the death. Those late points were scored by Mark O’Meara (2) and Sean O’Meara (free).
Kilsheelan/Kilcash:
Evan Comerford (0-2F), Conor Neville, Jason Madigan (capt), Emmet Butler, Billy O’Connor, Mark Stokes, Micheál Freaney, Billy Murphy, Jamie Roche (0-6, 0-4F), Mark Kehoe (0-1), Barry Kehoe, Liam Freaney (1-1), Tommy O’Connor (0-1), Conor Davin-Murphy (0-1), Tadgh McGuire (0-1).
Subs: Sean Ryan for Stokes (inj., 29 mins); Michael Bates for Davin-Murphy (54 mins)
Grangemockler/Ballyneale
David Power, James Daly, Conor Hahessy, Sean Daly, Manus McFadden (0-1), Leon Kennedy (0-1), Darragh Shelly, Michael Meaney, Ben Comerford, Sean O’Meara (0-2, 0-1F), Mark O’Meara (0-5, 0-1F), Paudie O’Shea, Michael Meagher, Brian Walsh (0-1), Thomas O’Regan.
FBD Insurance Tipperary Senior Football Championship Group 3 Round 2
CLONMEL COMMERCIALS 0-15 LOUGHMORE/CASTLEINEY 2-9
Reigning county champions Clonmel Commercials were put to the pin of their collective collars by Loughmore/Castleiney before salvaging a late late draw in an entertaining Group 3 county senior football championship game played in perfect conditions at Dillon Quirke Park, Clonoulty on Friday night last.
Having trailed by four at half-time, 2-6 to 0-8, Commercials were six points in arrears at the three-quarters stage and in serious danger of losing their unbeaten status. However, digging deep, and sending for the cavalry and experience in the likes of Michael Quinlivan, Kevin Fahey and Jason Lonergan, Commercials tagged on a half a dozen unanswered points for a deserved share of the spoils at the final whistle.
As relieved as the three-in-a-row seeking Clonmel side will be at snatching a draw through Peter McGarry’s fisted equaliser two minutes into added-time, Loughmore will, no doubt, feel that they let this one slip from their grasp. At no stage over the 60 minutes were they headed, and with a six points advantage with just 14 minutes remaining, one certainly couldn’t see Commercials survive without, at least, one green flag. In the end, they didn’t need any major, the Tommy Morrissey-managed side ruling the roost in the final quarter to raise six white flags for that 0-15 to 2-9 parity.
Commercials and Loughmore arrived in Clonoulty having recorded opening day victories over Arravale Rovers and Killenaule respectively in Group 3 – and departing, what was an unusual choice of venue for this fixture, both sides have now all but secured their passage to the knockout stages.
Friday night’s encounter was the first real clash of significance in this year’s championship and these almost annual adversaries will both take a lot from it for the latter stages. True to form, this latest staging of a now decades old rivalry between the sides was tough and competitive all through with referee Sean Lonergan well up for controlling it with yellow cards aplenty and two black cards along the way. But everything was honest and manly, and if they are to clash again further along the road, it will be well worth another viewing.
Before proceedings got underway, a poignant minute’s silence was observed for the late Moyle Rovers club legend, Eileen Boland. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam dílis.
From the start the Mid men were on a mission and inside four minutes were three points to the good with scores from Ciaran McGrath, Liam McGrath (free) and Philip O’Connell (mark). Indeed that opening point after just 20 seconds could have been a goal, when following a move from the throw-in, Philip O’Connell and Liam McGrath combined to put Ciaran McGrath in the clear but his piledriver clipped the crossbar on its way over.
A Jack Kennedy 45 got Commercials up and running in the seventh minute and from the kick-out Padraic Looram gathered to set up Ross Peters who pointed to make it a one point game. Parity was restored in the 11th minute when Cian Smith pointed a free won by Sean O’Connor.
Former Tipperary senior Liam McGrath added his second free to edge the Shane Hennessy managed Loughmore in front again, but it was quickly cancelled out by a Peter McGarry point at the conclusion of a good Commercials movement.
The game’s opening goal arrived at the end of the first quarter and it came as the result of a turnover. With Commercials on the attack and Loughmore looking stretched, wing-back Eoin O’Connell made a vital interception and in the resultant counter-attack John McGrath fed Ciaran McGrath who blasted to the top of the net beyond Shane Ryan for a 1-4 to 0-4 lead.
A Liam McGrath free was immediately nullified by a Sean O’Connor mark for Commercials after a pin-point delivery by Colman Kennedy. In one of the scores of the game Tommy Maher, John McGrath and Eamon Connolly weaved through the Clonmel rearguard before Connolly pointed. Again, Commercials responded quickly, this time Jack Kennedy obliged with an excellent point from 40 metres. After 21 minutes of play Loughmore led, 1-6 to 0-6.
Two points within a minute from Sean O’Connor and Cian Smith left just the minimum between the sides as the interval approached. However, right on the stroke of half-time came a big moment in the game. Liam McGrath put John McGrath through on goal and as he was about to shoot he was fouled by Commercials’ keeper Shane Ryan. The referee adjudged it as a black card incident and from the penalty Liam McGrath gave the just-introduced keeper, Ciaran Cannon, no chance with a superbly dispatched spot kick. At the short whistle Loughmore led 2-6 to 0-8.
Within three minutes of the restart, the Mid men had extended their advantage to six. A superbly-taken point on the turn from Tomás McGrath was followed by another Liam McGrath free. Commercials then introduced Michael Quinlivan for his first outing of the year, at the end of Shane Ryan’s black card duration, the champions restored to a full complement of 15 players.
It took the Clonmel side nine minutes of the second half to register their first score, Michael Murphy fisting over the point after good work by Peter McGarry. In the build-up to that score, Eamon Connolly fouled, and after the advantage rule allowed Murphy his score, the referee black carded the Loughmore player.
A double substitution then saw Kevin Fahey and Cathal Deely join the fray, Fahey, like Quinlivan, making his seasonal debut after injury. But it’s not in Loughmore’s nature to stand in ceremony or awe, and a full-length-of-the-field move ended with full-back John Ryan pointing in the 46th minute, throwing down the gauntlet to the champions at 2-9 to 0-9 with 14 minutes of normal time left to play.
Credit to Commercials though, with the positive mindset of a side that won’t give up easily on that dream of emulating their club’s 1965-1967 three-in-a-row heroes, they manned up to the challenge and slowly but surely hauled in that six points deficit.
Two Cian Smith frees set the ball rolling before Jack Kennedy landed another fine point from play from 40 metres in the 51st minute to make it a three point game at 2-9 to 0-12 for Loughmore.
Conor Deely, not long on having replaced his brother Cathal, tagged on a hard-worked point with four minutes remaining as Commercials chased down their rivals.
As the clock ticked into the red, two points separated the sides, but it was down to the bare minimum once Jack Kennedy landed a tight-angled free. Incidentally, Kennedy, was one of three brothers, along with Colman and Conal, playing in the field their father John would have honed his future Tipperary hurling skills as a child; the locals present remembered it.
The attention had turned now to the referee, the Loughmore supporters present, crying for Sean Lonergan to blow time. Two minutes into that added-time Padraic Looram got free down the right wing to create enough space to allow Peter McGarry run inside, and once the pass came McGarry had the composure and the time to fist the all-important equaliser.
Both sides could be happy with their performances and the point, and will no doubt have their eye on another day in the coming weeks.
Clonmel Commercials:
Shane Ryan, Thomas Charles, Tadgh Condon, Enda Dunphy, Padraic Looram, Colman Kennedy, Conor Deely, Michael Murphy (0-1), Jack Kennedy (0-4, 0-1×45, 0-1F), Peter McGarry (0-2), Cian Smith (0-4F), Conal Kennedy, Sean O’Connor (0-2, 0-1M), Ryan Lambe, Ross Peters (0-1).
Subs: Ciarán Canning for Peters (30 mins); Michael Quinlivan for Ryan (39 mins); Kevin Fahey for Dunphy (42 mins); Cathal Deely (0-1) for Conor Deely (42 mins) ; Jason Lonergan for Smith (59 mins).
Loughmore/Castleiney:
Shane Hennessy, Willie Eviston, John Ryan (0-1), Ed Meagher, Tommy Maher, Tomás McGrath (0-1), Eoin O’Connell, Noel McGrath, Brian McGrath, Eamon Connolly (0-1), Aidan McGrath (1-4, 1-0 pen, 0-4F), John McGrath, Liam McGrath, Ciaran McGrath (1-1), Philip O’Connell (0-1M).
Subs: Lorcan Egan for A. McGrath (44mins); Ciaran Connolly for Eamon Connolly (50 mins); Daragh McCahy for Eviston (51 mins); Conor Ryan for C. McGrath (56 mins).
Two drive-on golf buggies have been stolen from Clonmel Golf Club and vandalised. The theft was discovered on Friday morning when the buggies were found abandoned on the Blueway. One was driven off the pathway on the Blueway and into the River Suir between Richard Mulcahy Park and Carey’s Slip. It was one of two drive-on golf buggies stolen on Thursday night last from Clonmel Golf Club, one of which was owned by the club and used for golf hire, the other buggy was privately owned by a club member.
It is believed the thieves may have driven the buggies down the first fairway, exiting the course at the back of the 5th tee-box.
It is estimated that the buggies could have been worth over €10,000.
One of the Golf buggies vandalised and left abandoned on the Blueway.
Cashel and Tipperary woke up last weekend to the sad news of the passing of one its most famous GAA sons, when the death of Peter O’Sullivan was announced.
Peter was a proud King Cormac, and won All-Ireland medals in the Blue and Gold of Tipperary in the 1960’s and 70’s. A brilliant and brave young hurler between the posts, Peter played underage with Cashel, before coming to prominence at minor level with the county team.
He won a Munster medal in 1961, but was unable to add the All-Ireland medal, when Tipperary went down to Kilkenny in the final. He continued as goalkeeper into the under 21 team, and won another Munster medal at that grade in 1964, when Tipperary hammered Waterford, in the first year that the grade was played. This time the Premier County faced Wexford in the All-Ireland decider, and there were no mistakes, when they routed the Yellowbellies by 8-9 to 3-1, seeing Peter pick up his first coveted national medal.
He eventually joined the senior team as a substitute goalkeeper, but was the first-choice net minder in the 1971 season. Again, he picked up a Munster medal, to complete the minor, under 21 and senior set, when they defeated Limerick in the Munster final, and he remained the first-choice keeper when they faced off against Kilkenny in the final.
This was to be the first All-Ireland final to be broadcast by RTE in full colour, and is fondly remembered for one Michael “Babs” Keating, finishing the game in his bare feet, after discarding his boots close to the end of the game. It was an exciting and high scoring game, with the two hurling aristocrats going toe to toe throughout. And although Peter let in five goals on the day, he still picked up his winner’s medal, as Tipperary ran out champions on a 5-17 to 5-14 scoreline, the highest total in an All-Ireland final then or since. It was also the only eighty-minute final, which probably had a hand in the high ending result.
But he also had a long and distinguished career with his club of Cashel. One of the bravest players ever to pick up a hurley, Peter would regularly put his body on the line to stop shots from the most fearsome of club players in both the West and County championships. In the times he played, no quarter was asked or given, and huge crowds would often travel to fields in Golden, Dundrum, Cashel or anywhere else in West Tipperary, to watch warriors of the game. Over three decades, Peter amassed five West senior championships medals with the King Cormac’s, and always regretted that he could never have led his beloved club to the county senior titles that he and they yearned for. He was on hand in 1991, when the club finally did reach the promised land, and there were few supporters prouder that day in Thurles.
Peter was also a hard working family man, and was part of one half of the well known road markings company in Cashel, M&S markings. They travelled the length and breath of the country working the roads, in what was a very dangerous profession. Maybe danger suited Peter, because he never shied away from it. Which would have seemed odd to those who met him away from the hurling pitch or hanging off a marking’s lorry. Because he was wonderful gregarious company, always willing to chat about hurling or anything else that took the fancy. He had a twinkle in his eye and a story to tell, and was also ready to enjoy a joke or some banter.
In his later years he suffered ill health, and passed away at the weekend, sadly missed by his heartbroken wife Joan, his son Seamus, and daughters Noelette, Siobhán, Laura and Catherine, along with a wide circle of family and friends. He was a family man to the core, and they will miss him more than anyone. No doubt, in the next days, weeks and months, many a story will be told and a memory recalled of Peter O’Sullivan and his time between the posts. He will be fondly remembered.
Local businessman Jack Raeburn announced this week significant plans to expand his Myne Security company in Cashel, over the next number of years, and is looking for people to employ immediately, to kick off those plans.
He has also promised extra jobs, with staff required over the next number of years, in what promises to by a multi-million-euro investment in the town.
MYNE Security is a security company, or more specifically what is known as an ARC (Alarm Receiving Centre) and is based on the Cahir Road at a building owned by the Raeburn family. They are an internationally certified company, and boasts centres in Ireland, the UK and South Africa, and are planning major ongoing investment in all three facilities. But because Jack himself is from Cashel, he wants to try to keep as much of that investment in the town, and create as many jobs as he can, in what is a business that is expanding exponentially both here and globally. His ambition is to build the best security monitoring infrastructure in the world, and put the business on a truly global scale, opening up opportunities to work in other markets as the industry leader.
The monitoring centre is a high tech 24/7 facility with people working in roles from entry level ARC operators to senior management and engineering. Myne are offering all levels of job positions available in Cashel from monitoring, engineering, sales and so on. The growth of the business will bring massive benefits to the local economy, and at the current rate of growth they will be significantly expanding the size of the ARC control room and developing the property on the Cahir Road in Cashel to sustain that growth. All of the work done in building these facilities and the jobs created will be procured locally. Myne can quite conservatively say they will directly create an additional 40+ jobs locally in Cashel over the next 3 years. For those currently interested in such an opportunity, they ask that they contact the facility directly on the Cahir Road and they will arrange interviews or otherwise.
Anthony Hawkins, a local photographer from Clonmel who now runs a restaurant in Belfast, is currently visiting Ukraine with his Ukrainian girlfriend.He describes the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine as both “very scary and unnecessary.”
Anthony paints a harrowing picture of the destruction he has witnessed, describing village after village laid to waste, with no electricity, clean water, or basic necessities available.
“The devastation is beyond words,” Anthony says. “There are curfews in place, and nobody is allowed outside until morning because of military movements. I’m not permitted to photograph or film soldiers or homes that have been attacked.”
The personal toll of the war is starkly evident in Anthony’s account. “One of my friends’ fathers was killed on the front line yesterday, and his mother suffered a heart attack and is now in the hospital,” he shares. “It’s heartbreaking to witness what’s happening right in front of my eyes, and I wish I could do more to help.”
Despite the grim situation, Anthony recounts a poignant moment that underscores the human element in the middle of the chaos. “I went out for a meal which cost €8, and that was for sushi with all the trimmings. I tipped the waiter €50, which is a significant sum in Ukraine today. The poor girl burst out crying with delight.”
The struggle for basic survival is a daily reality for the local people. “It’s very hard for them to buy food and everyday essentials. People need help ASAP,” Anthony emphasises. To aid in this effort, he has set up a GoFundMe page for anyone willing to contribute to purchasing essential goods for local families. “The only people that seem to be doing okay are the Mafia and those in the computer industry,” he notes. However, the ever present danger of airstrikes and military encounters looms large. “Airstrikes can happen anytime, anywhere, with no warning. If you get caught in one of those, it’s curtains.”
Anthony’s fear of being captured by Russian soldiers is a constant worry. Yet, there is a modicum of safety provided by technology. “We have apps on our phones to tell us where the heavy fighting is happening. Right now, it’s not far from where I am today, near Chernobyl, and there’s a lot of fighting happening in Dnipropetrovska on the Zaporizka border.”
The unpredictable nature of life in a war zone is vividly illustrated by an incident Anthony experienced recently. “I was in a shopping mall yesterday when the alarm went off and the electricity cut out. The last place you want to be is in a lift because you could be stuck there for hours.” Which nearly happen to me. Night time offers little respite. “I find it hard to sleep; my brain is on overdrive,” he says. Adding to the stress are the high temperatures, which have reached 27°C. “I was on the beach the other day, and the bugs here are enormous and scary. Plus, there are snakes, bears, and wolves, and it feels like they all want to kill me too.”
Despite these overwhelming challenges, Anthony remains determined to help those in need. He appeals to the public for support through his GoFundMe page, which can be found at [https://gofund.me/f803478b]. “Any amount you can afford to give will go a long way in helping local families here. Your support would be greatly appreciated.” Anthony’s account is a sobering reminder of the human cost of the conflict in Ukraine. His efforts to provide relief to those suffering underscore the importance of global solidarity in times of crisis.
So, what are you up to on Thursday 1st August at 11.30 am? Not sure? All going well, you will be sitting, or standing, or screaming in front of a screen. Watching the men’s double scull rowing final at the Paris Olympics. Clonmel rower, Daire Lynch will be taking to the water alongside his partner, Philip Doyle of Belfast, providing of course that they navigate the repechages on Sunday 28th and, hopefully, the semi-final on Tuesday 30th . Lynch and Doyle won bronze at the European Championships in Poznan last year and followed up with another bronze at the World Championships in Belgrade. This season, they were forced to miss the World Cup event in Lucerne after Doyle suffered a fractured rib, but returned to the water last month at the World Cup regatta in Poznan, this time winning gold. The French Olympic Champions left without a medal. That said, a lot can change in a few weeks at the elite level of sport. Lots of things can go wrong between now and 1st August, just ask former World Champion, Sanita Puspure, but on current form, we can have reasonable expectation that a Clonmel athlete will compete in an Olympic Final in a matter of just two weeks’ time. Now, take a pause and read that last sentence again, because I cannot tell you the enormity of it. A Clonmel athlete, a man from our parish, who went to school here and took his first strokes on our stretch of the River Suir, will wear a green singlet and represent his country in an Olympic Games. That, in and of itself, is an amazing statistic, but to go to a Games with a chance of a medal is a once in a generational achievement. Clonmel has sent Frank Rothwell to the Olympics, Thomas Chamney and John Watson. Clonmel natives who have represented Ireland at the Olympic Games. But medals eluded them. Cork native and Clonmel resident Pat O’Callaghan won two gold medals in 1928 and 1932, so you could argue that Clonmel punches above its size when it comes to Olympic representation. Make no mistake, the Olympic Games is the pinnacle of sport. It has morphed into something of a monster, bigger, fattier and uglier rather than faster, higher, stronger but it is still the ultimate accolade for an athlete. Ireland sent only 8 athletes to the Los Angeles Games in 1932, won two gold medals and were ranked the 16th best nation on the medal table. In Atlanta in 1996, we sent 78 athletes, won three golds and one bronze and were ranked the 28th best nation on the medal table. In terms of medal haul, London 2012 was our biggest collection with six, one gold, one silver and four bronze. At London we sent 66 athletes and were ranked the 41st best nation on the table. Can Ireland top the London medal haul at Paris? I really think so, and here is why. Boxing is our most successful Olympic Sport accounting for almost half of the total medals that Ireland has won across 29 Olympic Games. John McNally in Helsinki 1952 was the first, Kellie Harrington in Tokyo 2021 was the last. That will be expected to continue in Paris. We are sending a team of ten boxers to Paris. Martin Fennessy of Clonmel Boxing Club sagely told me once that it is harder to qualify for an Olympic Games than it is to medal at one. So, for our ten strong team, the hard part has been achieved. Now it is down to performance and favourable judging. We have boxers qualified in all six of the women’s weight divisions and four of the seven male weight divisions. Three medals from the 10 boxers is not an unreasonable hope. The medal bouts start on Saturday 3rd August and run through to Saturday 10th . The recent European Athletics Championships were a delight. Gold for the mixed relay and in the woman’s 1500mfor Ciara Mageean had us enthralled. But European success is not indicator of Olympic medal expectation. If you look at the women’s 1500 meters for example, Mageean triumphed in Rome in a final that Scottish runner Laura Muir chose to miss as she prepared for Paris. Muir has run 3.53.79 for 1500m this season, Mageean’s seasons best (and Irish record) is 3.55.87. And then there is Faith Kipyegon of Kenya. Quite possibly the greatest female runner of all time. She holds the world record in the 1500m and the mile and is a former world record holder in 5000m. Her 1500m world record was set this year and stands at 3.49.04, more than 6 seconds faster than Mageean’s best. So, it is time to temper medal expectations for Mageean. An Olympic Final for the former camogie player? Certainly. But to medal will require a remarkable slice of luck. Stranger things have happened, but I cannot see it. The women’s 1500m final is on Saturday 10th . Tipperary’s Sharlene Mawdsley won a gold medal in Rome as part of the mixed 4 x 400m relay team; she ran the anchor leg and blitzed the opposition around the final bend. The Irish team will be confident going to Paris, not least because of their gold in the European’s but also their bronze medal at the World Relays in the Bahamas in May, where they finished behind the USA and the Netherlands. Rome showed that they can beat the Dutch, if they get their tactics correct again and they set national records almost every time they run. Their gold medal run in Rome lowered the Irish record to 3.09.92 and the world record stands at 3.08.80, held by the USA. The final of the mixed relay is on Saturday 3rd. Cancel all other appointments that evening is my advice. The timetable for the women’s 4 x 400m is a little complicated as it seems to coincide with the heats of the individual 400m for women. Rhasidat Adeleke has reasonable medal expectations in the individual 400m and may feel compelled to concentrate on that before she turns her attention to the women’s relay team. Adeleke and Maudsley will have had their mixed final on a Saturday, their individual heats for the 400m on the following Tuesday, semi-final on Wednesday, final on Friday. But the heats for the 400m woman’s relay also starts on the same day, Friday 9th. There would be a distinct possibility that the opening rounds of the woman’s relay will see an Irish team without Adeleke and Mawdsley. Elsewhere, the final of the men’s pommel horse is on Saturday 3rd. Rhys McClenaghan is the current world champion and gold medal favourite. He had a disastrous performance on the pommel horse in the Tokyo final three years ago and must surely have learned from that. If he can stay on the horse this time he will surely medal, the colour; yet to be determined. In the pool, we have double world champion and world record holder (short course) in Daniel Wiffin. He will probably compete in both the 800m freestyle as well as the 1500m. The longer distance is his preferred event. The men’s 800m heats are on Monday 29th, the final the following day Tuesday 30th , the 1500m heats on Saturday 3rd and the 1500m final the following day. That’s a lot of meters for him to swim and one wonders if the double is doable. The greatest distance swimmer of all time is probably Australian Grant Hackett and he doubled up winning gold in both the 800m and 1500m at World Championships in 2003 and 2005 but never at the Olympic Games. Danielle Hill is a current European champion in the 100m backstroke but she is also very proficient at the 50m freestyle. Mona McSharry made the 100m breast stroke final in Toyko and was very close to medalling at the world championships in Fukuoka and Doha. Making an Olympic final is an extraordinary achievement for any athlete but, when you hear McSharry speak you know that making a final is the absolute minimum that she expects. Finally, back where we began, Vaires-sur-Marne. The Olympic Nautical Stadium is around 25km east of Paris. Lynch and Doyle will be joined by other medal contenders, O’Donovan and McCarthy, the Skibbereen duo competing in the lightweight double scull. Paul O’Donovan looking for his third Olympic medal and his second successive gold. His final takes place on Friday 2nd August. The women’s four will hopefully also make the final, after which, who knows. Their final, should they make it, is also on Thursday 1st August. Have you ever heard of the golden hour at the 1932 Games in Los Angeles? It all makes for a fascinating 17 days, and one we should really enjoy as they will take place in our time zone, pretty much. The next two Olympics take place in Los Angeles and Brisbane so unless you suffer from insomnia then those games won’t be the same. Every four years we take the opportunity to watch sports that we rarely see on mainstream television. Some of which I am not so sure are sports at all. But whenever I try and define a sport, I am always confronted by ‘what about-ery’. I used to think that if a sport was a recognised Olympic Sport, then it must be a sport. But this Olympics will see the introduction of ‘Breaking’ as an Olympic Sport. Now, if a ‘sport’ requires a DJ and a MC in order for it to take place then I am sceptical if it is a sport at all. But, I will probably watch a bit of Breaking in coming weeks and declare myself an expert on the sport when it is over. It is the Olympic Games after all! Citius – Altius – Fortius
Clonmel Oil South Tipperary Senior Football Championship Final:
CLONMEL COMMERCIALS 0-9 MOYLE ROVERS 1-8
A goal by Luke Delahunty in the 60th minute decided the Clonmel Oil South Tipperary Senior Football Championship final in favour of Moyle Rovers in an always-tight and competitive game played at the Barracks Field, Fethard on Wednesday evening last. It ensured the Monroe club their first divisional crown since 2017 and continued their good run in 2024 against their arch-rivals whom they have now beaten three times this year, twice in the County League (including the final) and now in the South division’s showpiece game.
A low-key atmosphere prevailed at the midweek fixture agreed by both clubs to accommodate players’ summer plans, and it took until the second half for the final to come to anything like the excitement that is expected when these neighbours clash with silverware at stake.
At the end of a disappointing first half the Powerstown/Lisronagh side were 0-6 to 0-4 to the good with eight of those ten scores from frees. In that opening 30 minutes the reigning county champions, Commercials, failed to score from open play.
Thankfully the second half proved much more lively and eventful, culminating in the winning goal in the final minute of normal time scored by Luke Delahunty. Cutting in from the left his initial shot was parried by Commercials’ keeper Shane Ryan before Delahunty coolly managed to find the net with the rebound.
That goal, and the victory it more or less guaranteed, gave great satisfaction to the Scotch Road side who had been reduced to 14 men for the final 20 minutes after county player Luke Boland was red-carded for an off-the-ball incident. To their credit, when their backs were to the wall, John McGrath’s side seemed to play their best football with a numerical disadvantage, never allowing the town side to re-take the lead.
The clubs will now quickly turn their attentions to the forthcoming county championship where Commercials will know they need to get their act in order if they are to make it five titles in six years and complete a first three-in-a-row since 1965-1967. Moyle Rovers, with the addition of some new talent to their squad this year, will have their eyes on a treble of their own in 2024.
Nicholas Moroney, Chairman South Board and Riain Condon representing the sponsors Clonmel Oil, presenting the South Senior Football trophy to Shane Foley, Moyle Rovers captain.
Both sides took to the field somewhat understrength, the Rovers impacted further in the warm-up to the game when captain Liam Boland had to pull out with an injury. However, on the positive side for them they had former Tipperary captain and club legend Peter Acheson available to tog out while home from holidays from Dubai.
In a tense and teasing first 10 minutes, Commercials had the better of the possession and led by 0-3 to 0-1 into the town goal after 12 minutes, courtesy of three frees from Jack Kennedy (2) and Cian Smith, to Moyle Rovers’ sole reply from play from man of the match Ger O’Sullivan from 35 metres.
In a game of few goal chances, the first arrived in the 13th minute. A high ball delivered in by Killian Butler was held up by Ger O’Sullivan before a chance was created by Rory Collins whose shot went just over the crossbar. As things transpired this would be the last score from play in the half.
Two minutes later the sides were level at 0-3 each when O’Sullivan sent over a 45 metre free won by former St Finbarr’s player Cian O’Sullivan.
Kerryman O’Sullivan with another free put his side ahead for the first time in the 20th minute but parity was restored three minutes later by Jack Kennedy with a free from the edge of the D. It was to be Kennedy’s last involvement in the game, Ross Peters coming on immediately after that free had sailed over.
Rovers then had three frees inside three minutes from almost the same 40-50 metre range with O’Sullivan managing to convert one for a 0-5 to 0-4 lead after 26 minutes.
In the final minutes of a rather nondescript half Cian Smith saw a goal chance go narrowly wide for Commercials before O’Sullivan made it a two-points half-time advantage for his side with a free won by the hard-working Killian Butler.
Two substitutions at the break for Commercials livened matters up and having gone 30 minutes without a first half open-play point, like the proverbial bus, two arrived within a minute following the resumption with Ciaran Cannon and Cian Smith obliging. The sides were now level for the fourth time in the game and those in attendance were teed-up for the traditional combative conclusion to this final.
Rovers edged back in front in the 40th minute when after a good run by Cian O’Sullivan, Dara Ryan converted with a sweet point off his left leg.
Man of the match Ger O’Sullivan receiving his trophy from John Quirke.
A big moment in the game soon followed when after Rovers had been awarded a free some developments in the follow up saw centre-back Luke Boland receive a straight red card after a tussle with Peter McGarry. A minute later McGarry himself was booked for a sideline challenge on Shane Foley, as referee Derek O’Mahoney took control of matters and issued another half-dozen yellow cards over the next few minutes to ensure matters didn’t develop.
Veteran Peter Acheson, obviously enjoying being in the thick of it in his cameo appearance, was involved in the next point, his quick-thinking free releasing Brian McKeown on a run before Ger O’Sullivan finished off the move with a fine point for 0-8 to 0-6 to Rovers with 13 minutes to play.
Ryan Lambe, was getting more involved as the second half progressed, and he played a big part in the creation of a score for Cian Smith in the 49th minute to narrow the gap to the minimum.
Ryan Lambe was again involved in the next move which ultimately forced a good save from Shane Ryan in the Moyle Rovers goal (both goalkeepers had the same name) before Lambe, a grandson of the legendary Tipperary footballer Bunny, was fouled with Smith converting the equalising free in the 55th minute.
Level for fifth time, the odds would have favoured Tommy Morrissey’s side to drive on with momentum and a numerical advantage, and they should have taken the initiative only for a Michael Murphy effort to fall just wide.
Rovers then had a great chance of their own when a backwards Commercials sideline kick was badly misplaced giving Luke Delahunty the opportunity to drive through but his effort at lead point went wrong side of the post also.
With the light fast-fading and extra-time a probability, the game was decided in the final minute of normal time. Having missed his opportunity of a point a minute earlier, Delahunty once again used his pace to get clear and decided to go low for goal. The initial attempt was repelled but credit to Luke for a cool hand and head, he dispatched the rebound to the net and victory for the Rovers.
The last point of the game was a Ciaran Cannon free for Commercials but there was to be no denying Rovers this time around.
For the winners there were some solid displays. Former Kilnamartrya (Cork) player Graham Vauhan was solid at the edge of the square with Killian Butler, Cillian Crowe and Brian McKeown also defending well. Around midfield Ben Owens and Rory Collins held their own while Cian O’Sullivan, Dara Ryan, Ger O’Sullivan and Luke Delahunty were the pick of the forwards.
Without getting anywhere near their top game, Clonmel Commercials were in this final right up to the death. For a seriously understrength team on the night, that in itself will tell them where they are right now. If and when they can get back to near their full panel they will, most definitely, be the side that they all have to beat once again in the county championship. They will have to be concerned though with only three players on the scoresheet and only three points from play over 60 minutes.
Shane Ryan, Tadgh Condon, Enda Dunphy, Ciaran Cannon, Padraic Looram, Conal Kennedy, Cian Smith and Ryan Lambe all put in good shifts for the town side over the hour.
A minute’s silence: Before the game a minute’s silence was poignantly observed in memory of Pat Coen, Fr Tirry Park, Fethard. As a mark of respect to the family and the Fethard GAA Club, the Dr O’Hurley Band who had been arranged for the pre-match parade was cancelled.
Clonmel Commercials: Shane Ryan, Thomas Charles, Tadgh Condon, Michael Connellan, Billy Tierney, Ciaran Cannon (0-2, 0-1F), Padraic Looram, Conal Kennedy, Jack Kennedy (capt., 0-3F), Peter McGarry, Cian Smith (0-4, 0-2F), Ryan Lambe, Sean Kennedy, Darragh O’Connor, Rory O’Dowd.
Subs: Ross Peters for J. Kennedy (inj., 23 mins); Enda Dunphy and Michael Murphy for O’Connor and Charles (HT); Cillian Fahey for Kennedy (57 mins);
Moyle Rovers: Shane Ryan, Killian Butler, Graham Vaughan, Michael O’Reilly, Cillian Crowe, Luke Boland, Brian McKeown, Ben Owens, Rory Collins (0-1), Cian O’Sullivan, Peter Acheson, Dara Ryan (0-1), Sean Cotter, Ger O’Sullivan (0-6, 0-4F), Shane Foley.
Subs: Luke Delahunty (1-0) for Cotter (40 mins); Diarmuid Foley for O’Reilly (53 mins); Anthony Phelan for O’Sullivan (50 mins).
New 50 bed public nursing home to be built in Roscrea. €23 million Investment
Speaking today in Roscrea, Deputy Michael Lowry said he was thrilled to announce that the Government today confirmed the inclusion of Roscrea in the current HSE capital programme.
Roscrea will get a brand-new Dean Maxwell at a cost of €23 million. The new 50 bed unit, on a green field site will provide for long stay, short stay, respite and palliative care.
In recent months, five sites have been assessed for suitability, two were deemed suitable, and negotiations for the preferred option are in the final stages of completion.
The existing Dean Maxwell will continue in full service in the interim and on completion of the new project will be repurposed to create a modern day-care centre.
This is a superb outcome and a wonderful day for Roscrea and its people.
For me personally, making the difference on such a vital and cherished facility, is rewarding and makes the struggle of politics worthwhile.
The last healthcare development plan had devastating consequences for Roscrea. Dean Maxwell was to be robbed of its 25 beds with patients transferred to Nenagh. It was a political sell out. At that time, I gave a public commitment to stop this closure.After huge pressure and with the support of the community we managed to keep this valued and much-loved facility open.
Deputy Lowry concluded that the provision of this new modern 50 bed unit ends the uncertainty. It will provide the residential care which was demanded and deserved by the people of Roscrea and the surrounding areas.
New 50 bed public nursing home to be built in Roscrea. €23 million Investment
Speaking today in Roscrea, Deputy Michael Lowry said he was thrilled to announce that the Government today confirmed the inclusion of Roscrea in the current HSE capital programme.
Roscrea will get a brand-new Dean Maxwell at a cost of €23 million. The new 50 bed unit, on a green field site will provide for long stay, short stay, respite and palliative care.
In recent months, five sites have been assessed for suitability, two were deemed suitable, and negotiations for the preferred option are in the final stages of completion.
The existing Dean Maxwell will continue in full service in the interim and on completion of the new project will be repurposed to create a modern day-care centre.
This is a superb outcome and a wonderful day for Roscrea and its people.
For me personally, making the difference on such a vital and cherished facility, is rewarding and makes the struggle of politics worthwhile.
The last healthcare development plan had devastating consequences for Roscrea. Dean Maxwell was to be robbed of its 25 beds with patients transferred to Nenagh. It was a political sell out. At that time, I gave a public commitment to stop this closure.After huge pressure and with the support of the community we managed to keep this valued and much-loved facility open.
Deputy Lowry concluded that the provision of this new modern 50 bed unit ends the uncertainty. It will provide the residential care which was demanded and deserved by the people of Roscrea and the surrounding areas.
I warmly welcome today’s announcement by the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality, Norma Foley, confirming the establishment of ten new Family Resource Centres (FRCs) across the country, including a new Family Resource Centre for Roscrea.
This is extremely positive news for Roscrea and the wider North Tipperary area. The designation of Roscrea Family Resource Centre CLG, to be located at Friar’s Court, represents a significant investment in community supports and family services in the town. It reflects the growing recognition of the vital role Roscrea plays as a service hub for the surrounding rural hinterland.
Family Resource Centres provide essential supports for families at local level, including parenting programmes, child and youth supports, educational initiatives, wellbeing services and community development activities. The establishment of an FRC in Roscrea will strengthen early intervention and preventative services, helping families to access supports in a welcoming and inclusive environment.
This announcement forms part of a wider national expansion of the Family Resource Centre network, increasing the total number of centres from 126 to 136. It also builds on the Government’s earlier commitment in 2025 to establish five additional centres, demonstrating a clear commitment under the Programme for Government to expand and strengthen community-based family supports.
I want to commend all those involved locally in Roscrea who worked diligently to secure this designation. Their commitment to supporting families and building a stronger community has been rewarded with this very welcome outcome.
I will continue to work to ensure that Roscrea and North Tipperary receive the resources and investment needed to support families, children and communities, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact this new Family Resource Centre will have in the years ahead.
We are pleased to announce that Emly Tennis Club will be holding a Race Night in aid of the refurbishment of our tennis courts on Saturday 11th April 2026 in Byrne’s Tavern, Emly commencing at 8pm.
Emly Tennis Club have secured a grant under the Sports Capital funding program for a complete refurbishment to include resurfacing & drainage of the two courts, LED lights & security fencing. While we have been successful with the grant, we have a significant shortfall in funding these works. Once completed, there will be excellent facilities available to young and old within the community.
We would like to invite you to be a crucial part of our upcoming fundraising initiative to fund the shortfall. To assist us in reaching our fundraising goal, we need the support & generosity of individuals and organisations. We are aiming to raise €25,000 – €30,000 to bridge the shortfall between the cost of the project and the funding received from Sports Capital Ireland.
We ask for your help to support this fundraising in any way you can.
There are three categories of sponsorship for businesses: Gold, Silver & Bronze, details of which are on the attached page.
As a business owner in Emly and as a Family who use these courts, and as you know of our 3 next generation grandchildren who will come to use these facilities as the playschool is also located at the tennis courts so we are eager to raise as much money as possible. Please can you help by donating anything you can to this fundraiser. The deadline for sponsors & adverts is Friday 20th March 2026 to allow time for printing.
We are pleased to announce that Emly Tennis Club will be holding a Race Night in aid of the refurbishment of our tennis courts on Saturday 11th April 2026 in Byrne’s Tavern, Emly commencing at 8pm.
Emly Tennis Club have secured a grant under the Sports Capital funding program for a complete refurbishment to include resurfacing & drainage of the two courts, LED lights & security fencing. While we have been successful with the grant, we have a significant shortfall in funding these works. Once completed, there will be excellent facilities available to young and old within the community.
We would like to invite you to be a crucial part of our upcoming fundraising initiative to fund the shortfall. To assist us in reaching our fundraising goal, we need the support & generosity of individuals and organisations. We are aiming to raise €25,000 – €30,000 to bridge the shortfall between the cost of the project and the funding received from Sports Capital Ireland.
We ask for your help to support this fundraising in any way you can.
There are three categories of sponsorship for businesses: Gold, Silver & Bronze, details of which are on the attached page.
As a business owner in Emly and as a Family who use these courts, and as you know of our 3 next generation grandchildren who will come to use these facilities as the playschool is also located at the tennis courts so we are eager to raise as much money as possible.
Please can you help by donating anything you can to this fundraiser. The deadline for sponsors & adverts is Friday 20th March 2026 to allow time for printing.
Renovation works are currently underway at St John the Baptist Church on Friar Street in Cashel, as restoration efforts continue to preserve and enhance one of the town’s most recognisable and valued places of worship. The project represents a significant investment in the future of the church and its role in parish and community life.
Among the most visible elements of the works are renovations to the church clock and the main front mosaic, both of which are important features of the building’s exterior. The restoration of the clock will ensure its continued operation and accuracy, while careful work is also being carried out on the mosaic to preserve its detail and appearance for years to come. These improvements are intended not only to protect the structure of the church but also to maintain its visual presence on Friar Street. In addition to these prominent features, the renovation works include a range of essential repairs and upgrades designed to safeguard the building and improve its longevity. Parishioners have been advised that while the works may cause some temporary disruption, they are necessary to ensure the church remains safe, functional, and welcoming.
The scale of the project has prompted a major fundraising effort, with the Parish Council actively seeking support from the parish and wider community to help offset the significant costs involved. A number of fundraising initiatives are now underway, with two key events planned in the coming weeks. The first is a raffle, with tickets available at €10 each. Proceeds from the raffle will go directly towards the renovation fund, and organisers are hopeful of strong community participation. The second event is a Tea Party, which will take place in Halla na Féile on Sunday, February 1. The event is expected to attract a broad cross section of the community, offering an opportunity to socialise while supporting the restoration works. Tickets are priced at €20 per person, with tables of ten available for €200.
Tickets for both the raffle and the tea party are available from members of the Parish Council, who continue to work tirelessly to support the project. Parish representatives have expressed their gratitude for the generosity shown so far and are encouraging continued community involvement to ensure the success of this important restoration effort.
History was made last week at the Sport Ireland Campus, as the Ireland Women’s hockey team made their long-awaited debut in the prestigious FIH Hockey Pro League, playing in front of sold-out crowds and ending a seven-year wait to join the competition.
Among the standout moments was Cashel’s Caoimhe Perdue, who scored her first international goal for Ireland during a fiercely contested match against England. Using her trademark drag-flick technique, Perdue’s strike was a highlight in a game that saw Ireland earn their first-ever result against England since 1994. Currently playing with Dutch club HC Rotterdam, Perdue later added another goal in the tournament, underlining her growing influence on the international stage.
Caoimhe in action
The six-day event featured 12 matches and showcased six top-tier international teams. Ireland battled world-class opposition including England and Belgium, thrilling fans with their resilience and skill. A historic milestone came when Ireland defeated England in a dramatic penalty shootout to secure their first Pro League point, thanks to heroics from goalkeeper Elizabeth Murphy and sharp finishing from Hannah McLoughlin.
Other tournament highlights included Belgium edging England in a 3–2 thriller and Germany’s men producing a strong showing against Argentina. The Sport Ireland Campus was transformed into a world-class venue in just ten weeks, proving Ireland’s capability to host elite hockey events. Ireland now turns its focus to the next Pro League stage in Tasmania this February, buoyed by their breakthrough performances and Perdue’s landmark goal, a moment that will inspire young players across Tipperary and beyond.
Cashel rugby club are a resilient lot. They’ve had many highs and lows over the years and grown as they did, facing each challenge with strength and perseverance. But even their greatest depths of determination will be tested after Saturday’s heartbreaking defeat in Dublin, when they lost at the death in their All-Ireland rugby league play off.
The starting XV for Cashel v Dublin University on Saturday last
That it was played in bright sunshine after toiling for months in the depths of Winter, made it feel even more like the rugby Gods were mocking them, but like Sisyphus they were sent back down to the bottom of the hill, from where they will start once again next season.
The scene on Saturday was set from the moment the referee blew the final whistle on the victory against Barnhall the previous weekend in Spafield.
That was a step they had to get over, after they had been defeated by the same opponents last year in a playoff semi-final.
This year they were determined to go one better, and after a long and tortuous campaign of eighteen games that took the club the length and breadth of the country, they won fourteen and only narrowly missed out on automatic promotion, coming second in the table to a strong Instonians side.
But they weren’t to be denied again, and Barnhall were put to the sword in front of a large crowd in Cashel.
By the end of that evening, after a few songs, and a few drinks, plans were being made to travel to the heart of the capital, as news came through that their opponents would be Dublin side, Dublin University Football Club.
The name seems almost innocuous, similar to many third level rugby teams not only across Ireland, but wherever the game is played. But those in the rugby know, know different.
Dublin University Football club, are rugby royalty. The Origin of the Species in terms of rugby history. Better known as Trinity, the scholastic behemoth that stands at the top of College Green in Dublin. Founded in 1854. The oldest rugby club in the world in continuous existence. The OG.
The McCarthy family with strong Cashel connections. Irish international Joe Mc Carthy on the right, and the Trinity lad is his brother Paddy.. their mother is Paula Fogarty, daughter of well known Cashel publican Andy Fogarty.
And they take their rugby seriously in Trinity, proud of their history, and their name. It was to this that the hordes of supporters from Cashel would descend, with nothing else on their minds but to replace such an august opponent from the top table of Irish club rugby, and to join Nenagh as a second Tipperary side to play First Division in the AIL.
For many of the Trinners, this felt very much like the moment when they realised that the barbarians were at the gate. Or rather, the playing pitch at College Road, where the large Cashel crowd had to pass a cricket game in motion before getting acquainted with the oval ball. Tis a long way from Tom Semple’s Stadium they were now, but the sun was shining, the beer was cold and the Cashel team were ready for the fight.
The early part of the game turned out to be just that, a bit of a dogfight. Both teams showed a certain amount of nerves and apprehension, and the match settled into a bit of a kicking game, with the two sides trying to gain territory to build on, but turning it more into ariel ping pong than anything else. Eventually though in the thirteenth minute, Cashel were penalised for not rolling away at a ruck, and Trinity fly half Matty Lynch opened the scoring. But, like buses, after waiting so long for one score, two came along almost together, and within minutes Cashel were level when Ben Twomey knocked over a penalty of his own to make the scores three all, and that’s how it lasted to the break.
Cashel RFC supporters enjoy the festivities prior to the big promotion play-off game.
Whatever was said at the break, really fired up the Cashel team. Maybe they had gotten over their surroundings. Maybe they’d finished watching the cricket. Who knows, but they came out in the second period possessed and took the game to their more illustrious opponents. And they got rewarded for their endeavours when Josh Pickering touched down for the games first try and Ben Twomey added the extras to make it ten to three for the men from Tipperary. Things got better midway through the half when they added a second penalty from a monster kick near their own half way line, and suddenly the finish line seemed to be in sight. The two teams then swapped penalties, leaving Cashel ten points ahead, sixteen to six, with just twelve minutes left on the clock. Then disaster struck.
And it was hard to see it coming. Because Cashel were in complete control of the game, and were inside the Trinity 22 looking for that one extra score that would probably have broken the spirit of their opponents that late in the game. But while trying to set up a rolling maul, they coughed up an unforced error, and the Trinity backs managed to run the ball almost the whole length of the pitch, before being held up in the corner. But they recycled the ball and while playing with a penalty advantage inched closer and closer to the Cashel line. The defending side began to concede penalties until inevitably they were penalised and given a yellow card. A minute later, the dam broke and the Dublin side touched down in the corner through Zach Baird, and although the conversion was wide, they suddenly had a foothold in the game. With the extra man now, that hold got even stronger when man of the match Matty Lynch touched down for a second try, and added the conversion to make it a one point game.
Just two minutes to go, the yellow card now up and Cashel returned to their full complement of players, they seemed to have steadied the ship, and got a hold of the football. The Munster rugby DNA kicked in and they snaffled it up their jumper, as they worked painstakingly closer once again to the Trinity line, not so much trying to attempt to add that insurance score, as to keep the ball as far from their own line as possible. But they lost it again and Trinity scorched down the field, eventually needing to be stopped by a foul thirty five meters from goal on the right hand side. The clock was in the red. Mattie Lynch was facing the team in red. He had the opportunity to write his name into the annals of history of the world’s oldest club. And he did it.
Straight and true like an arrow from his boot, an arrow to the heart of every Cashel player mentor and supporter, who knew that time was up on their game, their season and their dreams for another twelve months. They slumped to the ground, wet on a dry day. Wet from sweat and wet from tears, as the football rolled back down to the bottom of the hill for another year. The last kick of the game. The whistle blew and the commiserations began.
Cashel supporters in Dublin on Saturday last prior to the AIL promotion play-off game with Dublin University at Trinity College.
Did they deserve to be beaten like this? Never in a million years. But Cashel rugby doesn’t do feeling sorry for itself. It congratulated the victors, and clapped them off the pitch. They will be back, no doubt. Inch by inch they get better. Inch by inch they succeed. Don’t bet against them reaching the top of their own rugby mountain next year.
A delegation from the hard-working Cashel Tidy Town committee, were delighted to be invited to Ballykisteen Hotel recently, where the village of Emly hosted the 2024 National Tidy Town Awards Ceremony, after being the South East Region winners of 2024.
Members from the hard-working Cashel Tidy Town committee who were delighted to accept an award for Cashel at the Ballykisteen Hotel recently, where the village of Emly hosted the 2024 National Tidy Town Awards ceremony. From left to right: Cliff Cope, Aidan Downey, John Ryan and Paddy Downey.
The event was to bring together the successful medal winners from right across the South East, and the Cashel group were proud to be joined by other hard-working volunteers from Wexford, Waterford, Carlow, Kilkenny, and both North and South Tipperary.
This gave the Cashel delegation a chance to meet up with some old friends, along with gathering new ideas from different towns and villages that they might put into place to make Cashel look even better than they already do.
The group who works closely in co-operation with the local council workers have gained a massive reputation for themselves in recent years and are seen as one of the most respected and forward-thinking organisations in the town.
Their reputation precedes them wherever they go, and there is no doubt the town is a better place for the men and women who make up the group.
