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Eadestown Ladies celebrate their five senior titles in a row
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Outside Naas courthouse are: Susanna Cawley, James Morrin, Richard Wixted BL and Andrew Coonan
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The Eadestown team that defeated Dunshaughlin to reach the LGFA Senior Club semi-final
Kildare’s Eadestown march on to the AIB Leinster Senior Club semi-finals after a thrilling encounter in Dunshaughlin! A last minute goal from substitute Kate Murphy proved the difference between the sides.
In barely playable conditions, due to storm Ashley, the girls in blue showed incredible grit, determination, and class to outbattle a strong Dunshaughlin outfit on their home patch.
Eadestown played with the aid of a very strong wind in the first half and dominated possession and territory, but were faced with a well organised home defence that “parked the bus” and tried to create chances through fast counter attacks.
The Kildare side’s captain, Grainne Kenneally, almost got her team off to a dream start, breaking through the defensive wall and forcing a point blank save from goalkeeper,
Michelle O’Hare. Eadestown opened the scoring in the seventh minute with an excellent fisted point from centre back, Ruth Sargent, following a strong forward run.
Three minutes later, the hard working Siobhan O’Sullivan used all of her experience to set up sixteen-year-old Anna Hynes for a great score from distance.
Dunshaughlin, with a number of current and former Meath county players, were battling hard in defence and working hard to break at pace but were finding it difficult to combat the wind and an Eadestown team that fought hard for every ball.
The Kildare team had forwards that were prepared to get back and force turnovers, and Laura Byrne and Denise Tierney put in some brave tackles when the Meath side threatened.
On eleven minutes, Ruth Sargent again burst forward, scoring her second point of the game and the girls in blue appeared to be growing in confidence.
Two minutes later, Tara Bedford picked off a nice point following a good pass from fellow corner forward, Abaigh Cahill. Kildare ladies captain, Grace Clifford, was having a growing influence on the game during this period and finished off a great team move with a well-taken point before setting up Abaigh Cahill for her first point of the game.
Clifford then drove forward and sent in a piledriver from twenty five meters that forced an amazing full-length diving save from Michelle O’Hare, the ball then bouncing off the inside of the post and out to safety. Eadestown kept pushing forward and Tara Bedford finished off a good team move to chalk up her second point of the game.
With the score at seven points to nil, Eadestown supporters began to speculate about the lead required at half time to possibly make the game safe. Most agreed on ten points at least, such was the force of storm Ashley.
Dunshaughlin had their first shot at the posts after 24 minutes but the wind pushed the ball well wide. However, two minutes later former all-star, Niamh O’Sullivan opened their account with a pointed thirteen metre free.
The Meath side won possession from the kick out, fed the ball to wing forward, Ciara Gorman, who finished to the net and the gap was back to three points with four minutes to play in the first half.
Grace Clifford showed all of her experience to finish a great move after combining well with Ruth Sargent. Dunshaughlin were getting forward more often now and Niamh O’Sullivan completed the first half scoring with another pointed free.
With the score at 0-8 to 1-2 in favour of Eadestown, many believed the lead would not be enough, having to face a gale force wind in the second half.
The task for the Kildare club became even more difficult after the restart when the industrious Meath star, Meadhbh Byrne, weaved her way in from the wing to set up Ciara Gorman for a fisted goal, though it appeared that Byrne hopped the ball twice in the build up.
The game was level and Eadestown had a mountain to climb.
When the going gets tough, the tough get going, and the girls in blue showed that they are not five-time senior county champions for nothing.
One minute after conceding a heart breaking goal, Grace Clifford drove forward and set up Tara Bedford for her third point of the game.
On 34 minutes, Niamh O’Sullivan tied the game up again with a good point from distance.
The evergreen Niamh O’Sullivan pointed again after forty two minutes and Laura Murray reduced the margin to the minimum again five minutes later.
Laura Murray levelled matters again on fifty seven minutes but Eadestown would never lie down.
Grace Clifford once again gave the decisive pass to Abaigh Cahill and Eadestown were one up with 64 minutes on the clock. Dunshaughlin drew level again with their next attack with a fine point from midfielder Niamh Gallogly.
Eadestown drove forward one more time and won a free thirty meters from goal. A clever short free, one last point attempt was blocked and the ball spun into the small square.
Up steps Kate Murphy, an inspirational late sub and only two minutes on the pitch, to finish the ball to the net with the last kick of the game that sent the away supporters into delirious celebrations with a final score of 2-10 to 2-7.
This was a true game of attrition and Eadestown showed that they can adapt to overcome any challenge that comes their way. It was a tremendous team performance in defence and attack with leaders all over the pitch.
Next up is a Leinster semi-final against Wicklow champions, Tinahely, which takes place in Tinahely next weekend.
Scorers: Eadestown, Tara Bedford (1-3), Kate Murphy (1-0), Abaigh Cahill, Grace Clifford, Ruth Sargent (0-2 each), Anna Hynes (0-1).
EADESTOWN: Andrea Jebb, Maryann Ryan, Denise Tierney, Anne Marie Logue, Aine Mernagh, Ruth Sargent, Aoife Clifford, Siobhan O’Sullivan, Laura Byrne, Anna Hynes, Grace Clifford, Jessica Harney, Tara Bedford, Grainne Kenneally, Abaigh Cahill – Subs: Aine Ni Raghallaigh for Anne Marie Logue, Lily Harney for Anna Hynes, Kate Murphy for Tara Bedford.
Photo courtesy of An Garda Síochána Kildare
House of Hearing's experienced audiologist Matt Allen
The Eadestown team after their win in Tinahely today Photo: Aisling Hyland
Gráinne Kenneally turned in an inspirational performance as Eadestown went to the home of the 2022 Leinster finalists and came away with a superb win to become just the third Kildare team, and first since 2017, to reach the Leinster LGFA Senior final.
Eadestown went into the game without the brilliant Grace Clifford, and her Kildare team-mate Aoife Clifford, but recorded a famous win thanks to a brilliant all round team performance as the gained revenge for a defeat two years ago at the same stage against the same team.
Andrea Jebb made a couple of crucial second half saves, Denise Tierney marshalled the defence superbly but Kenneally was on a different level.
Particularly in the absence of Clifford, perhaps the most influential player in Kildare over the last five years, Eadestown needed leaders to step forward and Kenneally delivered an all-time great display.
Gráinne Kenneally was in inspired form today Photo: Aisling HylandKenneally’s goal came in the 11th minute and although it was untidy, was another example of her determination. She never seemed to quite have the ball under control as she bundled her way through the Tinahely defence but once in near the goal there was nothing untidy about her finish as she tucked away a shot into Shona Byrne’s bottom right hand corner to make it 1-1 to 0-2.
Tinahely went close to a response five minutes later but Laura McGrath’s powerful shot rebounded off the Eadestown crossbar.
Eadestown had a shout for a penalty in the 21st minute when Ruth Sargent went tumbling under the challenge of a couple of home defenders after linking up nicely with Jessica Harney but referee Marion Hayden waved away the appeals.
The five-in-a-row Kildare champions led 1-2 to 0-4 but had to withstand some heavy pressure in the early stages of the second half.
Jebb made an early save to keep out Aobha Hannon’s shot and then Kenneally made that brilliant block to deny Tinahely’s best player, Kinch.
Eadestown were wobbling a little when McGrath and Kinch scored in quick succession to tie the game but Kenneally wasn’t considering defeat and another barnstorming run by her ended with a free that Abaigh Cahill converted.
Kenneally then turned provider in the 43rd minute when she sent Sara Carroll away and the half time substitute admirably kept her composure and beat Byrne with a powerful shot to make it 2-4 to 0-6.
Just as with the first Eadestown goal, Tinahely had a chance not long after the second when Jebb’s free kick only found McGrath but the Eadestown ‘keeper made amends for that mistake by brilliantly keeping out the corner forward’s shot.
Ciara Byrne did find the mark for the home team to cut the lead back to three as the game moved into the final quarter but with ten minutes to go, Jessica Harney fired over to extend the Eadsestown lead back to four.
Even though Tinahely went down to 14 players following Byrne’s yellow card, they kept pushing and Aoife Gorman fired in the 54th minute.
The game was on the line a minute later when Áine Darcy was through on goal but Jebb raced from her line to make a match deciding save, all the more crucial when Eadestown broke away and Cahill finished with a point.
There was one more late scare for Eadestown when Tinahely had a late, late free but the defence was able to scramble away Kinch’s shot after Gorman’s effort had been blocked down and shortly after the final whistle blew to confirm a brilliant win.
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Kildare's Ruth Sargent during the 2023 TG4 All-Ireland Ladies Intermediate Football Championship final at Croke Park. Photo: Seb Daly/Sportsfile
When Eadestown’s Ruth Sargent made her Kildare senior debut in a Lidl NFL Division 3 game against Down at St Conleth’s Park, Newbridge last January, she became the latest member of her family to represent the Lilywhites in the adult ranks of inter-county football.
In addition to her father Seán lining out in goal for the county in the 1980s and the early part of the following decade, Ruth’s mother Barbara was the first captain of the Kildare ladies football team when they entered competitive action in 1993.
Twelve months before Ruth made a breakthrough, her brother Jack also made his competitive bow as a Kildare senior footballer in a league opener against Kerry in Newbridge. The latter might well be joined by another member of the Sargent clan in future years as younger sibling Daniel was player of the match when the Kildare U-16s captured the Gerry Reilly Cup earlier this year.
“My mum Barbara, she has actually been my coach since U-6s in the club and she’s part of our management with the Eadestown ladies as well. She has been my coach the whole way up, so I wouldn’t really know football without her. I can’t leave the house without getting advice off Mum and Dad, which is great because they’ve been through it,” acknowledged Sargent, whose sister Emma has also donned the Kildare jersey in the past.
“It runs in the family, which is nice. We have a competitive environment, but I like that. Jack would have joined Kildare and in his first year probably wouldn’t have been starting. He was coming on, but it was great to see over the years how he is very committed to it. Then getting his starting position in last year and having a great year playing with Kildare.”
While Gaelic football is very much in their blood, Ruth and Jack both took an active part in a multi-discipline sport during their formative years as teenagers in Eadestown.
Comprising running, swimming, horse riding and shooting, tetrathlon is a team competition that is primarily organised by pony clubs for its members.
It is through the Kildare Hunt Pony Club that Sargent was introduced to that and having previously competed in national showjumping events, she took to this new sporting pursuit with considerable aplomb.
“Jack would have done it before me and I joined when I would have been in primary school at the age of 11 or 12. Then I would have competed with that both in Ireland and in England as well. We would have had a trip over to England every June bank holiday in the summer to compete against the teams in England, Wales, Scotland.
“I would have been big into the tetrathlon and then I think I stopped tetrathlon at 17 or 18. Then I just decided to focus on football. I thought it was the sport for me and I probably didn’t really have enough time to carry on doing them all. I picked football and stuck with that.”
Electing to focus solely on Gaelic football has certainly paid dividends for Sargent, given the level of success she has enjoyed with her club, county and college teams in the past few years. Since breaking onto the Kildare panel at the beginning of 2023, she has garnered Division 2 and Division 3 titles in the Lidl National Football League, a TG4 Leinster Intermediate Football Championship and – most crucially of all – a TG4 All-Ireland Intermediate Football Championship.
Sargent has also claimed back-to-back O’Connor Cup triumphs with DCU - where she is currently studying primary school teaching – while the start of last month saw her being part of an Eadestown side that secured a fifth consecutive Kildare LGFA senior club championship crown with a final victory over St Laurence’s.
Despite still being just 20 years of age, Sargent has been a starter for all five deciders that Eadestown have won during this period.
“I would have joined the Eadestown ladies senior team when I was 16. That was back in 2020. My first two years with the senior team, I would have been in the full-forward line and then I moved back to the centre-back position. It’s my position now, but it has been crazy.
“I probably won’t even realise until a few years to come how much of an achievement it is. It has just been great.”
Having firmly established themselves as the dominant force within their county, Sargent and her team-mates also had a desire to make waves on the provincial front in 2024. After coming up short in previous seasons, this year has seen Eadestown making it all the way to an AIB Leinster club final courtesy of triumphs at the expense of Dunshaughlin Royal Gaels and Tinahely in recent weeks.
Awaiting them in a showpiece affair at Glenisk O’Connor Park in Tullamore tomorrow (throw-in 1pm) is a Kilmacud Crokes side that are in search of a third successive AIB Leinster senior club title. Even though she has climbed the steps of the Hogan Stand in Croke Park for her county on more than one occasion in the past 18 months, Sargent believes that winning a provincial final with her club would be up there as one of her best achievements to date as a ladies footballer.
“It would definitely be huge and I think it would definitely top the achievements because obviously Eadestown is where I’ve grown up. It’s where I’ve learnt to play football. We know Kilmacud are a great outfit and obviously they’ve been there before,” Sargent added.
“It would just be great, not only for our team, but for the management. For the fans, the whole community who have just followed us over the years and have been so supportive to us. Not only huge for myself and all the individuals, but for the team and just the whole community of Eadestown. It would just be massive.”
Eadestown players celebrate winning five-in-a-row over St. Laurence's at Manguard Park. Photos: Sean Brilly.
Eadestown Ladies team created history for the club when they claimed their fifth Joe Mallon Motors Kildare LGFA SFC with a comprehensive victory over a hard fighting St Laurence’s team before a big crowd at a breezy and damp Manguard Park on Friday evening.
As well as capturing the Senior Championship for 2024 Ollie Mernagh’s charges also avenged the Division 1 League Final defeat to the Larries last May.
Exchanges were tight in the opening minutes with Siobhan O’Sullivan opening the scoring for the winners with a pointed free to which Miah Ryan responded with an excellent point from play inside three minutes.
Once Player of the Match, Abaigh Cahill, put the Sky Blues in front a minute later they were never to be caught. The young corner forward went on to score a further 3-5 in a fine scoring display. The first goal came in the 10th minute and she followed up with a second at the end of the first quarter. By that stage the defending champions led 2-5 to 0-1 as St Laurence’s battled hard but could do little to stem the flow of play towards the Milltown end.
The Larries might well have been further behind but for some excellent and brave saves from keeper, Meabh Collins.
Eadestown celebrate winning five-in-a-row.Indeed, the young net minder was to save a penalty from Siobhan O’Sullivan in the 20th minute only for the midfielder to fire the rebound home.
Eadestown led 3-7 to 0-4 at the break with the hard-working Brianne Leahy-Heydon, Caoimhe O’Sullivan and Miah Ryan all contributing scores for the Larries.
The Division 1 League Champions needed a bright start to the second half and midfielder Ciara Wheeler obliged with an excellent point within 19 seconds of the restart. This score only flattered to deceive however and goals from captain, Gráinne Kenneally, and Cahill with her third ensured that there would be no Larries comeback and the winners went on to secure the victory despite losing corner back, Maryann Ryan, to the Sin Bin in the 45th minute.
Eadestown and Sarsfields played out an exciting draw in this evening's opening game in the Joe Mallon Motors SFC.
Underdogs, Eadestown led at the break by a point, 1-6 to 1-5, the goals coming from Pauric Tuohy (Eadestown) and Shea Ryan of Sarsfields.
The second half was nip and tuk with Eadestown leading by two with ten to go.
They held on to that lead late on but Sarsfields, after a number of wides, finally got the leveler through Ben Loakman free on 60 minutes.
Eadestown finished the game with 13 players, Ben Fitzsimons and Conan Boran both shown two yellows.
Sarsfields will be relieved to get out with a the draw while Eadestown can justifiably feel very upset with a number of decisions that did not go their way.
Final score: Eadestown 1-9 Sarsfields 1-9.
Results from this evening's (Friday 23 August) Championship:
The Auld Shebeen Athy IFC, Round 1 Group D
Ballykelly v Ellistown (OFF due to a bereavement in Ballykelly).
Kilmacud Crokes players (l-r) Michelle Davoren, Lauren Magee and Ailbhe Davoren celebrate after the Leinster LGFA Senior Club final win over Eadestown in Tullamore. Photo: Ray McManus/Sportsfile
Kilmacud Crokes captain Emer Sweeney and her team-mates with the cup
Niall ScullyMon 11 Nov 2024 at 12:33Sunday lunchtime in Tullamore. It was raining softly.
The church steeple rose into a Chris de Burgh grey and lonely sky.
The neat rows of cottages on Davitt Street run alongside Glenisk O’Connor Park.
The stage for the AIB Leinster Ladies’ Football Senior Championship final.
A Dublin duo were on duty. Dave McCabe was at the entrance, while Tony Lennon manned the programme booth.
In its pages, the Crokes captain, Emer Sweeney, named Sarah McCaffrey as her most difficult opponent.
On RTÉ’s Saturday Sport, Sarah’s Dad, Doctor Noel, was reflecting on the days when Kevin Heffernan was winning All-Ireland’s with Dublin, and the county players played for their clubs in every league match.
The Bill Daly Cup rested on the podium. Ray McManus took a photo of it.
The good humour and help of Leinster PRO Aisling Clery was missed in the press box.
Aisling had a good excuse. She was getting married!
The Crokes' camp included a distinguished water bottle carrier - Jacqui Hurley of the Sunday Game.
The pre-match discussion was of the Cuala Dalkey Express to Newbridge the night before.
The marvellous job they have done on St Conleth’s Park. And the mural that still raises a chuckle – ‘Newbridge or Nowhere.’
You couldn’t be in a better place than O’Connor Park. It has the warmest of welcomes.
Up in the press box, officials checked that the wi-fi was working for everyone. They came in with the team changes, and a repeated invitation for tea, sandwiches and cake.
The sound system relayed every word. Westmeath’s Kathryn Nea sang the National Anthem.
An Eadestown supporter had brought along a teddy bear in the team’s colours. A poster read: ‘Go Eadestown.’
The captain of the Kildare champions, Gráinne Keneally, revealed that she’d like to meet Katie Taylor.
Attacking from the scoreboard end, Kilmacud delivered an early knock-out blow. They led 3-10 to 0-1 at half-time. And won by 4-14 to 0-3.
In the dampness, the ball might have carried an advert for Palmolive.
But Kilmacud looked like they had visited the local hardware store to put Velcro and glue on the gloves.
They moved the ball at pace. Their passing was precision itself.
And they turned their splendid approach work into pounds, shillings and pence.
But it wasn’t only that. Deep in the second half, Anna Hynes raced down the wing.
At that stage, the result was long written in the turf. And coated in cement.
But Kate Murray sprinted after her as if she was running to catch the last 46A from the city.
As Emer Sweeney declared at the presentation: “We left everything out there. Right to the last whistle.”
Crokes got in their blocks and tackles. And they swarmed around any opponent in possession.
“Our defending was rock solid,” remarked Kilmacud manager Paddy O’Donoghue.
“During the week, we placed a big focus on getting a fast start, and, thankfully, we managed to do that.
“In the county final, we struggled for the first quarter of the game, and in other games too, so it was something that we were conscious of.
“We got off to a dream start. I think we had 2-2 after three minutes. And when you establish a seven or eight-point lead, it helps to give a team belief."
It was the third Leinster title in succession for the Dubliners and they will now meet Castleisland Desmonds in the All-Ireland Senior Championship semi-final.
The Kerry club beat Comeragh Rangers of Waterford in the Munster final at Mallow.
Like Crokes, Eadestown played till the last bell. As the Leinster President, Trina Murray, remarked: “I have no doubt you’ll be up here on the podium someday.”
The five-in-a-row Kildare champs certainly will, especially with leaders like Anne Marie Logue. The accomplished defender made some surging runs. And her brilliant interception early on foiled what could have been a goal.
The Eadestown midfielder, Siobhán O’Sullivan, produced a delightful moment. A clever dummy earned her a yard. She got off her shot which was deflected for a 45.
Eadestown full-forward, Abaigh Cahill, sparked a ripple of electricity when she got on the ball. Bobbing and weaving. Like Katie Taylor. Misha Magee clipped over a beauty.
But there was just no containing Crokes. There are three black-spots on the crossbars at the venue. The visitors didn’t need a compass.
In their very first attack, Éabha Rutledge drilled the ball to the roof of the net.
Two minutes later, Michelle Davoren guided in the second goal. And it was Michelle who tucked in number three.
The second half had only breathed its first breath when Grace Kós added the fourth goal.
“We didn’t score as much in the second half, but we still kept working away,” reflected Paddy O’Donoghue.
As the players celebrated with the trophy, the loudspeakers blasted out ‘Don’t Stop Believin.’
Ray McManus walked out the gate. Pulling his trolley of cameras. Packed with a host of golden images for a Season of Sundays.
As he did so, the voice of another iconic Dubliner filled the Offaly air – the great Christy Dignam.
Clane's Harry O'Neill keeps his eye on the ball while under pressure from Eadestown's Cian Boran
Clane have set up a date with Celbridge in the last eight of the 2024 Joe Mallon Motors Senior Football Championship after surmounting a stern challenge from Eadestown in Sunday’s preliminary quarter-final in Manguard Park.
A Sam McCormack goal eight minutes into proceedings went a long way to seeing Tom Cribbin’s side open up a four-point advantage (1-6 to 0-5) by the half-time break.
Eadestown had remained neck and neck with their opponents up until the midway point of the opening half, but eight wides in that period alone would prove costly.
Having suffered a six-point reversal against the same opposition in the championship preliminary round last month, Clane were determined not to afford Eadestown a way back into contention this time around.
Early second-half points from McCormack and Brian McLaughlin pushed their lead out to six points before Eadestown got motoring again through Pauric Touhy.
Sean Hynes then capped a fine counter-attack when he split the posts before Cian Bolton converted a free to reduce the gap to three with ten minutes remaining.
But a combination of poor finishing and resolute defending by Clane, ensured that that would be as close as Eadestown would go to a comeback.
Instead, Clane remained out in front as McLaughlin and Shane O’Sullivan both struck over, before substitute Cathal O’Brien put a gloss on the final scoreline when he found the back of the net in injury time following great perseverance by fellow reserve, Stephen Brereton to keep that attack alive.
Eoin Conneff Eadestown gets his kick away from Tim Ryan Naas in the Joe Mallon Motors SFC at Clane. Photo Martin Rowe
Naas impressed again in the second round when they held off a stern Eadestown challenge to make it two wins from two in Group A.The losing side came flying out of the blocks, knowing they would need a good start to have any chance in this game.
The game was tied at 0-3 a piece as it crossed the 20-minute mark with Eadestown busting a gut to force Naas to miss.
Cian Boran pushed Eadestown one ahead with a close-range fist over the bar before a quick-fire Naas double from Alex Beirne and Eoghan Prizeman reversed the scoreboard.
Prizeman’s score gave Naas the lead they wouldn’t lose as it preceded an excellent Tom Browne goal. The Naas centre-forward burst through the middle before finishing elegantly off his instep.
Tom Browne, Neil Aherne and Darragh Kirwan all added scores before half-time as the county champions pulled clear.
Another Ben Fitzsimons free was the game’s last before the break as Naas took a 1-9 to 0-6 lead into half-time. Naas put their foot down to hit 1-4 from the 25th minute onwards, leading only by a single point at that stage,
Eadestown again came out at pace and ignited this game with a goal. Half-time substitute Cian Bolton was latched onto a ball amongst the scramble and squeezed his effort low under Luke Mullins to cut Naas’ lead in half.
A combination of Naas’ wastefulness and Eadestown momentum would further heighten excitement in this game. After a free from Ben Fitzsimons, Cian Boran reduced the gap back two just before the game reached the 50th minute.
The ‘score of the game’ is rarely a free-kick, but Niall Cummins’ effort just inside the 45’ and closer to the sideline than not drew acknowledgement from seemingly all in attendance, regardless of allegiance. The Eadestown midfielders super score made this a one-point game with eight minutes to go.
It was time for Naas to answer and that they did, Darragh Kirwan was first up with a fine point in immediate response. Neil Aherne was next with the full-forward carving a chance from nothing with some agile and intricate play.
Alex Beirne added his fourth and it suddenly seemed as though there was no reason to worry for the county champions again. Three effortless points to push clear again as they reminded all why they are favourites for four-in-a-row.
Darragh Kirwan converted a free on the hour mark to push Naas five clear before Eoin Conneff nailed his first for Eadestown.
In the 62nd minute the result was secured, Eadestown were pushed high and Luke Mullins decided the best counter to that was to go over the top of them. Mullins superbly found Alex Beirne who fed in Darragh Kirwan. The towering county man looked completely assured as he passed the ball into the bottom right corner.
An Eoin Coneff free at the other end of the field was the game’s last score and Eadestown finished the game six adrift. The losing side seemed to have gotten both so close and were yet still very far away from upsetting the county champions.
Scorers: Naas, Darragh Kirwan 1-6 (0-4 frees), Tom Browne 1-1, Alex Beirne 0-4 (0-2 frees), Neil Aherne 0-2, James Burke 0-1, Eoghan Prizeman 0-1.
Eadestown, Ben Fitzsimons 0-4 (3 frees), Cian Bolton 1-0, Cian Boran 0-3, Niall Cummins 0-3 (3 frees), Eoin Conneff 0-2 (2 frees).
NAAS: Luke Mullins; Brian Byrne, Daniel Lenehan, Robert Fitzgerald; Paddy McDermott, Eoin Doyle, Eoghan Prizeman; Ryan Sinkey, James Burke; Alex Beirne, Tom Browne, Kevin Cummins; Darragh Kirwan, Elliot Beirne, Neil Aherne. Subs: Dermot Hanafin for Paddy McDermott (Half-time), Tim Ryan for Elliot Beirne (42 minutes), Sean Hanafin for Ryan Sinkey (53 minutes).
EADESTOWN: Shane Sargent; Daragh Jameson, John Lawlor, Sean Hynes; Eoin Woods, Jack Sargent, Harry Carroll; Rian Boran, Niall Cummins; Ben Fitzsimons, Eoin Conneff, Conan Boran; Cian Boran, Pauric Tuohy, Fiachra Bracken O'Brien. Subs: Cian Bolton for Eoin Woods (29 minutes), Rian Monaghan for Fiachra Bracken O'Brien (Half-time), Niall Grainger for Harry Carroll (42 minutes), Eoin Doyle for Ben Fitzsimons (56 min).
Grace Clifford in action for Eadestown during an earlier round game with Maynooth Photo: Aisling Hyland
Eadestown’s 'drive for five' is a game away from becoming reality after a win over Sarsfields in a good game on their home pitch on a sun drenched evening. The hosts showed their class, despite a spirited performance from Sarsfields, to overcome their opponents.
They will attempt to win their fifth successive county title against a St Laurence’s team who have been bolstered this year by the return of Kildare LGFA legend Brianne Leahy-Hayden. They scored the only two points in the last ten minutes to beat Kilcullen 0-12 to 2-4. It was Kilcullen’s second season in a row to fall at the semi-final stage. St Laurence’s were also beaten in last year’s semi-final, by Eadestown, and will now seek revenge for that in the final on 4 October at 8pm.
Eadestown celebrate with the cup after winning their fifth Senior Football Championship in a row, Photo by Sean Brilly
Eadestown hit five goals to lift their fifth Joe Mallon Motors Senior Football Championship title in a row on Friday night. The game’s opening score came from the boot of last year’s Eadestown captain Siobhan O’Sullivan, who fired over from a close-range free.
After Miah Ryan equalised for Larries, Eadestown hit 3-4 without reply in the 15 minutes that followed. It was a spell of utter domination that the losing side would never recover from.
After points from Anna Hynes and Player of the Match Abaigh Cahill, Eadestown grabbed their first goal in the sixth minute.Abaigh Cahill took aim at the posts and saw her effort touched onto the bar by Meabh Collins.
The Larries goalkeeper, after denying Grainne Kenneally a goal moments earlier, did so again with a brilliant sprawling save.
However, on this occasion the ball fell to the waiting Abaigh Cahill and, after the Larries backline failed to react, Cahill finished with little fuss.
Eadestown went six clear in the 10th minute with a point from Anna Hynes which brought their total to 1-4.
Grace Clifford extended her side’s lead further before they found the net again as the game reached the quarter of the hour mark.
Two minutes after Ciara Wheeler was denied at the other end, Abaigh Cahill grabbed her second goal of the evening with a brilliant driving run and excellent finish.
Four minutes later Tara Bedford was looking to add Eadestown’s third goal when she was fouled inside the box.
Siobhan O’Sullivan stepped up to spot, but was superbly denied by Meabh Collins. The Eadestown midfielder responded well and latched onto the rebound to find the net in what was a cruel misfortune for the Larries stopper.
After struggling to build attacking momentum, Larries grabbed back-to-back points through Brianne Leahy-Heydon and Caoimhe O’Sullivan.
Siobhan O’Sullivan then added a point to her tally at the other end in the 27th minute.
One more score each before the break sent the side’s in with Eadestown leading 3-7 to 0-4 after late points from Marie Kealy and Abaigh Cahill.
It was more of the same after the restart as Eadestown pushed further clear.
The leading side got their fourth goal from captain Grainne Kenneally, who added to a brilliant Ruth Sargent run by producing an outstanding finish into the top corner.
Four minutes later Eadestown had their fifth and final goal as Abaigh Cahill completed her hat-trick.
Five goals and five Championships in a row for Eadestown after another excellent display in the Kildare Senior Championship. Their attention now turns to producing on the provincial stage as they fly the flag for Kildare in Leinster.
Speaking after the match, Eadestown captain Grainne Kenneally said, “My reaction is that we can finally start talking about five in-a-row. A lot of people have been talking about it over the last few weeks. We haven’t been allowed to mention it, but of course it has been in the back of our heads. Of course we wanted to create history and we have done it.
“We are very relieved. I must give credit to St Laurences, they have had an absolute storming Championship. They started well in a league campaign and deservedly won it. You could see they were building towards something for the Championship. I just don’t think the score reflected what a really competitive team they are and we have no doubt that they'll be back for the next few years. And I do hope to see some of them in the lilywhite of Kildare next year.”
The Waterford native also spoke on her pride in leading Eadestown into battle this year and said, “I may not have been reared in Eadestown, but I certainly have been adopted. It is not easy being away from home, but they took me in as one of their own and I am so grateful for all the support they have always given me.”
MAIN MANAbaigh CahillThe Eadestown corner-forward was a cut above the rest on the night and will have done her chances have donning white next year no harm as she scored 3-6 in front of new Kildare manager Pat O'Sullivan.
TURNING POINTEadestown hit 3-4 without reply between the fifth and 15th minute of this game to inflict damage on the scoreboard that St Laurences were never going to recover from.
TALKING POINTThe chatter surrounding this accomplishment should be dominated by praise for those within Eadestown GAA. A club who operate within a small village and have achieved incredible success with their fifth title in a row. Club integration and equality have been at the core of Eadestown for years and that has bore fruit on both side's of the ledger.
WHAT NOW?After winning their fifth Championship in a row, Eadestown now look to make another dent in the Leinster Senior Championship.
Scorers: Eadestown, Abaigh Cahill 3-6 (0-1 frees), Siobhan O'Sullivan 1-2 (0-2 frees), Anna Hynes 0-4 (0-1 frees), Grainne Kenneally 1-0, Grace Clifford 0-1, Jessica Harney 0-1, Laura Byrne 0-1.
St Laurences, Caoimhe O'Sullivan 0-2 (0-2 frees), Miah Ryan 0-1, Brianne Leahy-Heydon 0-1, Marie Kealy 0-1, Ciara Wheeler 0-1.
EADESTOWN: Andrea Jebb; Maryann Ryan, Denise Tierney, Ann Marie Logue; Aine Mernagh, Ruth Surgent, Aoife Clifford; Siobhan O'Sullivan, Laura Byrne; Anna Hynes, Grace Clifford, Jessica Harney; Tara Bedford, Grainne Kenneally, Abaigh Cahill. Subs: Kate Murphy for Tara Bedford (52 minutes), Aine Ni Raghallaigh for Siobhan O'Sullivan (58 minutes).
ST LAURENCES: Meabh Collins; Ailbhe Hennessy, Eimear Glancy, Amy Cullen; Niamh O'Connor, Emma Wheeler, Ava Marron; Gillian Wheeler, Ciara Wheeler; Emma Walshe, Miah Ryan, Marie Kealy; Deirbhile Byrne, Brianne Leahy-Heydon, Caoimhe O'Sullivan. Subs: Joanna Ryan for Caoimhe O'Sullivan (46 minutes), Megan Alcock for Emma Walshe (47 minutes), Niamh Miley for Niamh O'Connor (47 minutes), Kate Dooley for Eimear Glancy (50 minutes), Grace Gibbons for Ava Marron (58 minutes).
Sarsfields's Daragh Conlon tries to get past Eadestown's Ben Fitzsimons Photo: Sean Brilly
CHAMPIONSHIP 2024 surprise package, Eadestown, showed that they are going to be a force to be reckoned with as, despite finishing the game with 13 men, they forced Sarsfields to come from two points down deep in five minutes of injury time to claim a dramatic draw in this SFC Round 1 Group A game at a wet Manguard Park on Friday night.
Eadestown lost Conan Boran to a Black Card in the 59th minute and Ben Fitzsimons to a second yellow in that nervy five minutes of injury time at the end of the game.
The sides were level on five occasions throughout the game but the very fluid Eadestown side were two points to the good as we approached injury time but first, a point from play by Ben McCormack and then a free from half time substitute, Ben Loakman rescued the draw for Sarsfields. Indeed, the same player might have had a chance to win the game for the Sash but his 65th minute free fell just short and Referee Billy O’Connell blew the final whistle.
Some of the decisions of the man in the middle were questioned by both sets of supporters and neutrals alike for frees given and ones not given with Eadestown feeling particularly aggrieved on that score.
The rain and darkness fell as the game commenced and indeed the use of the floodlights in Manguard Park could well have been considered appropriate before they were eventually switched on for the second half.
Both sides played quite positive open football and the tackling was as you might expect from a robust championship encounter.
Sarsfields’ opening scores came from placed balls from Barry Coffey and Karl Hartley however Eadestown responded with points from play by the lively and influential Eoin Conneff and Darragh Jameson.
Eadestown shot four in a row between the 17th and 24th minutes with Conneff, Ben Fitzsimons, mark, full back, John Lawlor and Conneff again all obliging and the Sky Blues led by three points. To their credit Sarsfields ended the half well with Shane Doyle, from play and Coffey, from a free, bringing them back into the game. Eadestown still led 1-6 to 1-5 after that lively first half, despite the conditions.
The early stages of the second half were a little more subdued and and it took ten minutes into the half before we had our first score as Sarsfields drew level through Ben McCormack. Just when it looked like Sarsfields were getting a grip on the game Eadestown rallied again and went two in front through Cian Bolton and a fisted effort from left back Conan Boran.
Eadestown proved that their victory over Clane was no flash in the pan while Sarsfields proved that it will be very hard to bet against them for the closing stages of the senior championship 2024.
Eoin Conneff in action for Eadestown Photo by Martin Rowe
After some frantic scrolling on social media for score updates from elsewhere at full time, Eadestown set themselves up for another clash with Clane (pre-quarter final) after defeating Confey in Rathcoffey.
Eadestown got the opening score of the game courtesy of a free from Niall Cummins. Confey were off the mark after five minutes when Imad Mirza got on the end of a pass from Brian Grimes to palm the ball into the net. Grimes was in on goal moments later, but he drew a save from Shane Sargent in the Eadestown net.
Eadestown were back in front after 10 minute when Cian Bolton picked up the rebound, after Eoin Conneff’s effort came off the post, and slotted the ball into the Confey net.
Ciaran Lyons responded with a point from play for Confey before points from play from Eoin Coneff and Cian Bolton nudged Eadestown in front.
On 22 minutes Eoin Conneff was in for Eadestown’s second goal of the game, which was followed up with another well taken score from Cian Bolton.
A free from James Gately for Confey in first half injury time for Confey left five between the sides at the break. Eadestown ahead on a score-line of 2-4 to 1-2.
Eadestown picked up where they left off in the first half and got the first three scores of the second. Cian Bolton added to his tally when his effort from a free hit the post and he collected the rebound which was slotted over the bar. Conan Boran added another from play before Bolton got his fourth point of the game.
Confey were awarded a free on 44 minutes, but this time it was James Gately’s turn to hit the wood work. Ian Devane was quickest to react and get the ball over the bar for Confey.
Eadestown continued to press for goal, Colin Heeney used his feet to keep out Eoin Conneff’s goal bound shot. Niall Cummins’ effort with the 45 drifted right and wide.
Conneff looked to be in again on 50 minutes when he got on the end of Ben Hourihane’s pass, but was denied by Heeney at full stretch who put the ball behind for another 45. Eadestown goalkeeper Shane Sargent stepped up for the kick, but his effort fell short and eventually went wide. Confey did manage to create another goal opportunity, but Shane Sargent managed to keep out the shot from Conor Jennings.
As injury time approached the game became stop start and the referee was kept busy adding ticks and cards in his notebook.
On 60 minutes, Rian Boran was shown a second yellow and then a red for Eadestown. Two minutes later Ian Devane was given his marching orders for Confey.
In the third minute of injury time, Rian Monaghan pointed for Eadestown to put them seven points ahead.
A free from James Gately in the fifth minute of injury time saw the game finish with six points between the teams. Eadestown winning on a score-line of 2-8 to 1-5.
EADESTOWN: Shane Sargent; Rian Monaghan (0-1), John Lawlor, Sean Hynes; Conor McCarthy, Jack Sargent, Conan Boran (0-1); Rian Boran, Niall Cummins (0-1, free); Ben Fitzsimons, Eoin Conneff (1-1), Darragh Jameson; Cian Boran, Pauric Tuohy, Cian Bolton (1-4). Subs: Fiachra Bracken O’Brien for Conor McCarthy (11 minutes), Niall Grainger for Ben Fitzsimons (58 minutess).
CONFEY: Colin Heeney; Andrew Breslin, Colm Chan, Conor Dennehy; Brian Grimes, Imad Mirza (1-0), Aidan Crean; Paul Divilly, Ciaran Lyons (0-1); Ciaran Kilbane, James Gately (0-3, 2 frees), Conor Jennings; Ian Devane (0-1), Cathal Jennings, Ben Hourihane. Subs: Josh Collins for Ben Hourihane (33 mins), Colm Noctor for Conor Dennehy (51 minuteds).
Eoin Conneff scored two important second half points for Clane Photo: Sean Brilly
Eadestown produced a second-half performance very much in the image of their manager Emmet Bolton as they destroyed a fancied Clane outfit with some superb football to run out deserved six-point winners.
Bolton’s half-time team talk must have been quite the oration as his side turned around a four-point deficit and broke Clane hearts with second half goals from Cian Boran and Ben Fitzsimons and a slew of brilliant points from the likes of Conor McCarthy and Eoin Conneff.
A strong-looking Clane selection, with the likes of Chris Byrne and Harry O’Neill welcome returnees from injury, opened with a long range point from Sam McCormack and although Cian Boran responded in kind for Eadestown, a Danny Egan ’45 and Brian McLoughlin free made it three points to one after only five minutes.
Eadestown, though, tend to reserve their best for championship and four points in a row laid down a marker. Conor McCarthy registered the first two from frees before Niall Cummins fizzed one just over the bar and Ben Fitzsimons followed up to give them a two point lead mid-way through the half.
Clane found their groove in the second quarter, though. Shane O’Sullivan pointed after a McCormack free came back off the post and he followed that up with a goal when he collected McLoughlin’s cross and buried the chance to the top right corner.
McLoughlin scored the next three points to send his team 1-7 to 0-5 ahead before a McCarthy free gave Eadestown something to hold onto at the interval.
Half-Time: Clane 1-7 Eadestown 0-6 Eadestown played like men possessed after the break and Clane couldn’t live with their fitness, strength and pace. They scored five of the first six second half points to reel in their opponents by the 38th minute before ‘keeper Shane Sargent made a crucial double save from O’Sullivan.
Two McCarthy points and another from Fitzsimons put Eadestown three ahead but Clane gave themselves a lifeline when McLoughlin, a peripheral figure in the second half, palmed home a Shane McCormack pass to level things.
Back came Eadestown again and after a McCarthy point, Cian Boran broke two tackles to find the net with six minutes remaining.
Shane McCormack responded with a point, and they pushed hard in injury time but a brilliant block in his own half from McCarthy set up the breakaway move from which Boran sent Fitzsimons through to score their second goal and seal a famous six-point win.
Eadestown Eoin Conneff wins procession ahead of Clane Jake Devey in the Joe Mallon Motors SFC Preliminary round in Hawkfield, Photo by Sean Brilly
Eadestown caused the biggest upset for some time on Saturday in the last of four games in Manguard Park when they defeated Clane in the Preliminary round of the Joe Mallon Motors.
Eadestown are renowned for playing their best football come championship time but having said that few would have expected for Emmet Bolton's side to turnover Tom Cribbin's boys.
Clane would have been expected to make it the last four again this time around and while that is still very much on the cards, this display will undoubtedly cause the boys in white to do a fair bit of soul searching while Eadestown showed that if this display is anything to go on they can give most teams more than a run of their money.
Clane opened with a Sam McCormack point, quickly equalised by Cian Boran before Danny Egan and Brian McLoughlin (free) edged Clane two clear.
On a lovely afternoon for a game Eadestown came back with four points on the trot from Conor McCarthy (2), Niall Cummins and Ben Fitzsimons.
Not to be outdone the boys in white upped their game hitting 1-4, the goal coming from that lethal combination of Brian McLoughlin and Shane O'Sullivan with the latter filling the net.
Clane 1-7 Eadestown 0-5 and Clane were on their way, or so we thought.
Conor McCarthy reduced the lead with a fine point as we reached the half-time mark and four points separating the sides.Not sure what Emmet told his players at the break but they came out with all guns blazing. Points from McCarthy (free), Eoin
Woods and Cian Boran had the lead back to one and while Sam McCormack converted a free for Clane, Eadestown came back strong with two points from Eoin Conneff to level up matters with just 38minutes on the clock.
Shane O'Sullivan was denied a goal with a brilliant diving save from Shane Sargent before the boys in blue hit the front with two Conor McCarthy points and another from Ben Fitzsimons.
Were we about to see a major upset we wondered.
Then Shane McCormack picked out Brian McLoughlin close in and the no. 13 palmed to the back of the net to level.
Conor McCarthy edged his side ahead with a free before Cian Boran shrugged off three or four tackles before find the back of
Shane McCormack reduced the deficit to three before Eadestown put the final nail in the Clane coffin with Cian Boran setting up Ben Fitzsimons for goal no. 2 as the final whistle arrived.
Eadestown fully deserving of this win, played some fine football at times, they were hungrier and more up for this than their opponents and it will be interesting to see how they (and Clane) get on after this result. Final score: Eadestown 2-15 Clane 2-9.
Scorers: Eadestown, Conor McCarthy 0-7 (6 frees), Cian Boran 1-2, Ben Fitzsimons 1-2, Eoin Conneff 0-2, Niall Cummins 0-1, Eoin Woods 0-1.
Clane, Brian McLoughlin 1-4 (3 frees), Shane O'Sullivan 1-1, Sam McCormack 0-2 (1 free), Danny Egan 0-1 (45), Shane McCormack 0-1.
EADESTOWN: Shane Sargent; John Lawlor, Sean Hynes Conan Boran; Fiachra Bracken, Jack Sargent, Darragh Jameson; Rian Boran, Niall Cummins; Ben Fitzsimons, Eoin Conneff, Conan Boran; Cian Boran, Eoin Woods, Conor McCarthy. Subs: Niall Grainger for Eoin Woods (58 minutes).
CLANE: Cian Burke; Sam Reilly, Sean Callan, Jake Devey; Harry O'Neill, Chris Byrne, Tadhg Montgomery; Sean Christiansen, Shane McCormack; Cormac Vizzard, Sam McCormack, Hugh Prendergast; Brian McLoughlin, Danny Egan, Shane O'Sullivan. Subs: Conor Walsh for Chris Byrne (half-time); Stephen Brereton for Jake Devey (41 minutes); Eoin Walsh for Conor Walsh (44 minutes); Oisin Tighe for Cormac Vizzard (47 minutes).
Jessica Harney on the ball for Eadestown during their semi-final win over Tinahely Photo: Aisling Hyland
Jessica Harney, who is sixth in line to the throne, is a great ambassador for the family, for the club and for the community. Still only 22 the student at Marino College has packed a lot into her short life with Eadestown and Kildare. She enjoys playing with her two other sisters on that Eadestown team.
“Lily is only 15, Katie 18, so it's great to play with them; it makes training fun really and it's always nice that they kind of look up to me, in a way, and I can be an influence for them,” the wing forward tells us before heading out to training in preparation for Sunday’s Leinster Final against Kilmacud Crokes. Katie has played with the Kildare minors while Lily also plays rugby with Naas and has aspirations to make the Leinster team.
“Just supporters as well coming to all of our away games,” she adds. “I’m just grateful that we get to give it back to them and that we have kind of done well this year that we got to have an occasion and bring them for a day out.” “We also have a fan base there, you know,” Jessica proudly announces. “You go down to the school and they're asking for autographs. I did Cúl Camps with Ruth (Sargent) during the summer and they know your name.”
Who might have been her hero growing up, then, we ask? “Grace”, she quickly responds.
“I saw it at first hand the work that she put in. Seeing that when I was younger it kind of seemed so out of reach because I had her on a pedestal but the whole way up I was thinking if I stay at this and work as hard as she works I can get there.”
Reflecting on Sunday’s opposition in Kilmacud Croke Jessica Harney says, “There's no denying that they're a very strong side, but look, so are we. I think it's so important that we don't go in with the mindset of being ultra defensive and thinking about them. This is our game too. We are giving 100% and we're going out there to win. We're not going out here scared, we just want to go out there and really give it our best shot and give it 100%.”
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Eadestown Niall Cummins slips clear of Sarsfields Ethan Mountaine challenge in the Joe Mallon SFC clash at Hawkfield
All square in the opening game of this season's Joe Mallon Motors SFC
Group A as favourites Sarsfields had to come from behind to gain a draw with Eadestown in a cracking game at Manguard Park on Friday evening
Despite a good fall of rain throughout the game players overall coped well with the conditions in a game that was level on no less that five occasions; a game that saw two goals scored within a minute of one another
the first from Pauric Tuohy with Shea Ryan finding the net for The Sash
A real championship clash was this one and while Eadestown did end the game with 13 players
one of their players picking up yellow while another saw black
the boys in blue picked up a total of five yellow cards and one black while Sarsfields had just one yellow
especially in the second half but they went abegging while Eadestown will
the 50-50 calls they seemed to come off second best from a match official who was in charge of his second championship game in 24 hours
Barry Coffey had The Sash in front from a free after a minute while Eoin Conneff
who had an excellent game leveled with the first of his three white flags
A high challenge saw Barry Coffey regain the lead with a free while Darragh Jameson had the sides level on five minutes.Coffey was on the mark again three minutes later after a high challenge on Shane Doyle
although many in the stand were of the opinion that the ball had gone right of the right hand post
Colm Hartnett had the Newbridge side in front with a beauty on nine before a fine attack from Eadestown saw Pauric Tuohy carry the ball deep
seemed to lose possession but as the ball hopped had the wherewithal to get a touch putting it over the head of the advancing Marc Courtney Byrne and into the net to take the lead 1-2 to 0-3 after 12 minutes.But that lead was short lived and within a minute Shea Ryan finished coolly after being put in by Barry Coffey
Eadestown took control and hit the following four points while Shane Doyle and another Coffey free reduced the lead Eadestown still led at the break 1-6 to 1-5
A couple of wides from The Sash on the resumption before Ben McCormack had the sides level as Sarsfields had their best period but failed to convert that on to the score board
Cian Bolton and the impressive Cian Boran pushed Eadestown two clear; Ben Loakman hit a lovely point
Ben Fitzsimons restored the two point lead
Eadestown defence was working overtime but effectively before Ben McCormack reduced the lead back to one on 58 minutes.Conan Boran picked up a deserved black before Ben Loakman converted a free to level on 60 minutes
Eadestown hit a rare wide before Ben Fitzsimons saw yellow for the second time; Sarsfields had a chance to steal it with a 35m free but Ben Loakman's effort was short and cleared
Much to talk about; a lot to ponder as the sides finished 1-9 apiece
SARSFIELDS: Marc Courtney Byrne; Alan Scully
Subs: Ben Loakman for Daragh Conlon (half-time); Tadhg Hoey for Callum Bolton (38 minutes); Jake Loakman for Shane Doyle (41 minutes); Conor Hartley for Barry Coffey (55 minutes)
Subs: Eoin Doyle for Conor McCarthy (44 minutes); Harry Carroll for Eoin Woods (52 minutes); Niall Grainger for Fiachra Bracken O'Brien (58 minutes)
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Clane's Harry O'Neill slides out in front of Eadestown Cian Boran to win the ball during the Joe Mallon Motors Senior Football Championship
Clane finally came good in the SFC and disposed of Eadestown to book a place in the quarter-final and a date with Celbridge following this impressive display at Manguard Park on Sunday
Clane had been struggling to find their form heretofore but they certainly did and while Eadestown can look back on a dozen wides (eight in the opening half) they were in the end somewhat disappointing
the loss of Conor McCarthy certainly a telling factor
Tom Cribbin will be delighted with this result
their big names came good when it counted with midfielder Brian McLoughlin particularly showing his true form
raised the first white flag before a Ben Fitzsimons free had the sides level for the first time
Clane had an early chance of a goal but Hugh Prendergast finish was a poor one and the danger cleared
Cian Boran had Eadestown in front on seven but a minute later Clane found the Eadestown net
Adam Fanning putting Sam McCormack in and the big no
11 made no mistake from close range to make it 1-1 to 0-2 on eight minutes
Rian and Cian Boran had the sides level again on 12 minutes
A Brian McLoughlin free mid-way through edged Clane ahead
Shane McCormack hit a lovely point from an acute angle to put two between them
Shane O'Sullivan added a Clane point and Shane O'Sullivan left three in it on 24 minutes.A few more wides from Eadestown before Sam McCormack converted a free with the half-time whistle on the way
Sean Callan denying them with the resultant 45 going wide of the posts
Sam McCormack fired over a free on the resumption to extend the lead but on 38 minutes Cian Burke made a brilliant diving save to deny Jack Sargent
in what was certainly a pivotal moment in the game
Brian McLoughlin increased the Clane lead to six on 40 minutes before Eadestown finally got their first point of the second half
Cian Bolton converted his only free of the day to reduce the lead back to three with ten minutes remaining
A brilliant long range point from the mercurial Brian McLoughlin eased Clane four ahead
Shane O'Sullivan added another and while Pauric Tuohy got one back for Eadestown a late goal put the icing on the it for Clane after a Brian McLoughlin effort was balooned left and heading wide but was kept in play by Stephen Breteton who found substitute Cathal O'Brien who found the net
The final score line may be a bit tough on Eadestown but have no doubt the honours went where they belong and the winners can now look forward to a quarter-final clash against Celbridge this weekend
Subs: Cormac Vizzard for Sam Reilly (15 minutes); Danny Egan for Cormac Vizzard (43 minut4s); Cathal O'Brien for Sean Tighe (44 minutes); Stephen Brereton for Hugh Prendergast (54 minutes); Oisin Tighe for Adam Fanning (56 minutes)
Subs: Eoin Woods for Fiachra Bracken O'Brien (40 minutes); Harry Carroll for Ben Fitzsimons (49 minutes); Eoin Doyle for Rian Monaghan (54 minutes); Niall Grainger for Darragh Jameson (61 minutes)
Beginning with local GAA and the results from yesterday are as follows:
In the Leinster Senior Football Championship quarter-final it finished Cuala 2-15 Naas 1-15
In the Intermediate Quarter Final the full time score between Caragh and Dicksboro was Caragh 5-10 Dicksboro 0-7
it finished Ellistown 0-12 Grattan Og 0-11
in the Junior Hurling Championship quarter final
Moorefield played Castletown Liam Mellows of Laois and the final score was Castletown Liam Mellows 6-19
the Eadestown women are in the Leinster Senior Football Final
They play Kilmacud Crokes of Dublin at 1 o’clock in Tullamore
Paul Waring leads the way heading into the final round of golf's Abu Dhabi Championship
Olympic silver medalist Tommy Fleetwood and Ireland's Shane Lowry are among the players three strokes back
Four-time major champion Rory McIlroy starts the day on 13-under
The first of the 8 racecard goes to post at ten to 12
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Erin King claimed the Women's Breakthrough Player of the Year award at the World Rugby Awards in Monaco last night
The 21-year-old came into the Ireland team earlier this year and scored two tries in the win over New Zealand in September
was named in the Women's Team of the Year
Four Irish players were named in the Men's Team of the Year
James Lowe and Eadestown’s Tadhg Beirne were all included in the selection
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Paddy McDermott is tackled by Padraig Tuohy during the last Championship meeting between Naas and Eadestown in 2022. Naas won that game by 1-15 to 0-11 Photo: Sean Brilly
Joe Mallon Motors Senior Football Championship
Emmet Bolton’s Eadestown have been the ‘bolters’ in this season’s senior championship, with a win over Clane followed by a draw with Sarsfields that many observers thought they deserved to win.
Those results have set up a mouth-watering tie in Group A with three-in-a-row champions Naas on Sunday. The players know each other well of course, with the Naas CBS connection in many cases while the likes of the three Boran brothers play hurling with the county town team.
Naas had a facile win over Confey in their Group opener and it’s impossible to see beyond them this weekend with the likes of Alex Beirne and James Burke in such good form, but Eadestown will give them a run for their money.
In the same group, Sarsfields should have too much for Confey ahead of a final round showdown with the county champions.
The feature game in Group B sees Athy and Celbridge face off on Saturday evening. This could be one of the tightest games of the weekend. Athy only squeezed past Clogherinkoe last weekend while Celbridge were very impressive in bursting Allenwood’s bubble.
That form might take them past Athy on this occasion, particularly if the latter are as open defensively as against Maynooth in the Preliminary Round.
In the other game, Clogherinkoe may be feeling better about themselves than Allenwood after the weekend, and with Céin McMonagle in such form they may be slight favourites for this one. It should be another tight affair, though.
In the Losers’ groups, relegation loom large for the four teams who lost in the opening round with Carbury, St Laurence’s and Kilcock particularly poor in those games. Maynooth are probably the odd one out of the losing quartet having been edged out by Moorefield.
Maynooth, though, are under pressure now to get into the knockout stages and they’ll find it hard in Group D against a Clane team boosted by the return of Adam Fanning in their win against Kilcock last weekend.
Moorefield are fancied to leave Kilcock staring at a relegation play off in the same group whereas in Group C, Raheens look likely to inflict more pain on a struggling St Laurence’s.
That leaves potentially the match of the weekend in the losers’ section where neighbours Carbury meet Johnstownbridge with a lot more than local pride at stake. Carbury will struggle to pick up anything against ‘Bridge and their final game against St Laurence’s has the look of a relegation semi-final already.
The local derby between Johnstownbridge and Carbury is always keenly contested Photo: Sean BrillyAuld Shebeen Athy Intermediate Football Championship
In a quirk of fate, three of the four Auld Shebeen Athy Intermediate Championship groups feature the winning teams from round one facing each other in round two. The exception is Group A where Leixlip, who overcame much-fancied Sallins last week face Straffan. They should move onto the four points mark. Sallins, on the other hand, will be looking to get back on track against Rathangan. Expect them to do so. Both those games are in Clane on Sunday.
In the other Winners’ group, Group B, Round Towers and St Kevin’s continue their impressive campaigns to date with a mouth-watering clash on Thursday night in Manguard Park. Towers might just edge it but a bit like Eadestown in the senior grade, Kevin’s have been a revelation so far and won’t be far away in this one.
In the same group, two recent operators at senior level, Ballyteague and Castledermot, face off looking for their first points. Jimmy Hyland has been in form for Ballyteague and with Castledermot really struggling so far, his influence may be deciding factor.
Group C and D feature, with respect to the four teams involved, two games which will go some way to deciding which teams are in danger of dropping down to Junior. In Group C, Ballymore Eustace need to stop their freefall against Nurney and the local derby in Group D between Kilcullen and Suncroft should be equally tasty.
At the top end of those groups, Milltown and Monasterevan got their seasons back on track with wins over Nurney and Ballymore Eustance in Group C while in Group D, Two Mile House and Caragh will both be looking to maintain maximum points also.
Tom Cross Transport Junior Football Championship
The Tom Cross Transport Junior Football Championship was disrupted somewhat with Ardclough conceding to Robertstown while a bereavement unfortunately saw the local derby between Ballykelly and Ellistown deferred.
There are three games this weekend in Group A with Division 4 SFL winners Athgarvan, still looking for their first group win, up against the team they beat in that league final, Rathcoffey, on Friday night. Rathcoffey may reverse that outcome on form having run Grangenolvin to a point last week.
Grangenolvin and Kill is probably the game of the weekend in the grade with both sides unbeaten in their three games to date, though Kill dropped a point in the draw with Castlemitchell. If Grangenolvin can recover the form from their first two games they can maintain their one hundred percent record.
Cappagh and Castlemitchell have two and three points respectively and will both still entertain hopes of a knock-out place, but Castlemitchell look the stronger of the two.
The five-team Group B has struggled for momentum so far. Robertstown and Ellistown meet this weekend having only played a game each. These are the two strongest teams in the group and Ellistown will be aiming to take another step towards an immediate return to Intermediate ranks. Ballykelly meet Rheban in the other game, a difficult one to call. Both beat Ardclough to gain their two points to date, but Ballykelly were more impressive in doing so and may be favoured here.
Venue: Manguard Park Pitch 1, Round Towers V St Kevin's 20:00, Referee: Colm Kearney
Tom Cross Transport Junior Football Championship Group B
Venue: Manguard Park Pitch 2, Rheban V Ballykelly 19:45, Referee: Jamie Lyons
Venue: St Laurence's, St. Laurence's V Celbridge 19:30, Referee: Niall Colgan
Venue: Manguard Park Pitch 1, Maynooth V Clane 20:00, Referee: Billy O Connell
Venue: Manguard Park Pitch 2, Two Mile House V Caragh 19:30, Referee: Ken Doyle
Venue: Round Towers, Milltown V Monasterevan 19:30, Referee: Eamonn Kelly
Venue: Raheens, Athgarvan V Rathcoffey 20:00, Referee: Paraic Mc Givern
Venue: Manguard Park Pitch 1, Ballyteague V Castledermot 13:00, Referee: Frank Delaney
Venue: Clane, Eadestown V Naas 16:30, Referee: Kieran Harris
Venue: Manguard Park Pitch 1, Carbury V Johnstownbridge 14:30, Referee: Niall Colgan
Venue: Manguard Park Pitch 1, Raheens V St. Laurence's 16:00, Referee: Fergus Devereux
Venue: Manguard Park Pitch 1, Athy V Celbridge 18:00, Referee: Brendan Cawley
Venue: Round Towers, Kilcullen V Suncroft 16:00, Referee: Killian Jones
Venue: Kilcullen, Ballymore Eustace V Nurney 19:30, Referee: Jack O Connell
Venue: Manguard Park Pitch 2, Grangenolvin V Kill 12:30, Referee: Daren Malone
Venue: Clane, Cappagh V Castlemitchell 15:00, Referee: PJ Cummins
Venue: Rathcoffey, Ellistown V Robertstown 18:00, Referee: Henry Barrett
Venue: Manguard Park Pitch 1, Sarsfields V Confey 15:30, Referee: Conor Daly
Venue: Manguard Park Pitch 1, Clogherinkoe V Allenwood 14:00, Referee: Alan Archbold
Venue: Manguard Park Pitch 1, Moorefield V Kilcock 17:30, Referee: Alan Lagrue
Venue: Clane, Sallins V Rathangan 14:00, Referee: Ryan Moran
Venue: Clane, Leixlip V Straffan 15:30, Referee: Damien Whelan
On the same day Tinahely men’s team won a first county title in 40 years
the ladies’ team were in action at St Kevin’s Park for AIB Leinster Senior Championship semi-final action
with the Kildare club also bringing along a good following
but apart from a light rain shower at the beginning
the game was played in good conditions on a solid pitch
And it was Tinahely who made the steadier start
and Ciara Byrne had them a point ahead within the opening minute
Full forward Jackie Kinch had withdrawn to guard the defence
Ciara Byrne and Laura McGrath benefited from the extra space
while Kinch’s presence was needed in front of a pacy Eadestown full forward line
and goalie Shona Byrne – along with Niamh Kenny
Ciara Stokes and Shannagh Goetelan – had their hands full on occasion to prevent scores
Midfielder Siobhan O’Sullivan brought Eadestown level with a point after five minutes
Laura Hogan restored the home side’s lead on 10 minutes
but a couple of crucial wides from Tinahely at this stage should probably have seen them extend their lead
Eadestown instead went ahead on 12 minutes when a wayward clearance for Tinahely was intercepted
and the Kildare side worked the ball to Grainne Kenneally
but Tinahely responded quickly when Jackie Kinch moved forward to set up Ciara Byrne for a point
Tinahely were unfortunate a couple of minutes later when a blistering shot from Laura McGrath came back to safety off the crossbar
with marking tight and defences holding firm
Siobhan O’Sullivan converted a free for Eadestown
but Ciara Byrne responded from play just before half time
The Kildare side held a lead of 1-2 to 0-4 at the break
Play was evenly balanced in the middle third of the field
but scores were hard to get as both defences continued in their miserly mode
Anna Hynes extended the Eadestown advantage with a fine left-footed point after 10 second-half minutes
Laura McGrath responded for Tinahely and Jackie Kinch brought the sides level at 1-3 to 0-6 on 12 minutes
The game was won and lost in the next couple of minutes
Grainne Kenneally pointed a free to return Eadestown to the lead again
half-time substitute Sara Carroll shot to the roof of the net to leave the Kildare side ahead by 2-4 to 0-6
It was the first time a bit of daylight had appeared between the sides on the scoreboard
Ciara Byrne reduced the gap to a goal as the game went into the final 10 minutes
and excitement was rising as the home side battled to save the game while the visitors were determined to hold what they had
who restored the four-point Kildare advantage with eight minutes left
Aoife Gorman brought the gap down to a goal again
but Eadestown’s Abaigh Cahill ensured a four-point win for her club with the last score of the game
Tinahely worked the ball in to Aine Darcy on the edge of the square
but her effort was smothered by goalie Andrea Jebb and any chance of a turnaround was gone
LifestyleSix of the best Garden County gardens to visit in Wicklow this summer Wicklow is of course known as the ‘Garden County’
so what better place to visit to find some of the country's garden gems
whether it’s for a stroll around Powerscourt or something a bit more adventurous
Clane booked their place in the SFC quarter-final after defeating Eadestown by all of seven points at Manguard Park this afternoon
While there is no doubt the better team on the day won
it was a goal in the 63 minute from substitute Cathal O'Brien that put the icing on the cake
the goal coming in the eighth minute after Adam Fanning set up Sam McCormack
Eadestown were well in up to the break but their big concern at that stage was their total of eight wides in that period
Eadestown threw everything at Clane in the second half but it was the class of Brian McLoughlin
two monster efforts in the second half that were crucial
Meanwhile Johnstownbridge booked their place in the quarter-final of the SFC with a one point win over Clogherinkoe in Manguard Park
The Bridge looked to be well on their way when leading 1-12 to 0-9 on 54 minutes but The Cloghs never gave up
and when Sean Kenny bundled the ball over the line with three minutes remaining the lead was down to two
Cein McMonagle converted a free on 61 but try as they might they could not get the equaliser as Johnstownbridge held on to defeat their fellow parish side by one and will now play Naas next weekend in the quarter-final proper
In the UPMC SHC quarterk-final Confey had a three point win over Ardclough to march into the last four
Clane 2-10 Eadestown 0-9; winner plays Celbridge in the q/f next weekend
Confey 3-16 Arclough 3-12; winners play Naas in semi-final;
The Auld Shebeen Athy IFC pre-quarter-final
Rathangan 2-21 Suncroft 0-17; winners play Round Towers in q/f
Castlemitchell 1-17 Ballykelly 0-8; winners play Ellistown in the s/final
Kill 1-18 Robertstown 1-8; winner plays Grangenolvan in s/final;
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Leinster and Ireland international Jimmy O'Brien has signed a Leinster contract extension
however the length of the deal is not disclosed
he has not played internationally since coming on as a replacement in the 2023 World Cup quarter-final defeat by the All Blacks.
The Eadestown native missed the 2024 Six Nations because of being injured
He’s been part of the squad this year but hasn’t featured so far
The Ireland rugby squad will continue preparations today for Saturday's Six Nations clash with Italy today
Both James Lowe and Ronan Kelleher are being monitored this week as they recover from their respective injuries
Tadhg Furlong is set to be available for Saturday's game in Rome
Interim Head Coach Simon Easterby has named the Ireland Match Day Squad for Saturday’s opening Guinness Men’s Six Nations clash against England at a sold-out Aviva Stadium (Kick-off 4.45pm)
Caelan Doris will captain the side as Ireland get their 2025 Championship underway against England in Dublin
Hugo Keenan, Mack Hansen and James Lowe are named in the Ireland back three
with Bundee Aki partnering Garry Ringrose in midfield. Jamison Gibson-Park starts at scrum-half and Suncroft's Sam Prendergast is at out-half
for what will be his Guinness Men’s Six Nations debut
In the pack, Andrew Porter, Rónan Kelleher and Finlay Bealham are named in the front row
with James Ryan and Eadestown's Tadhg Beirne in the Ireland engine room.
Ryan Baird is selected at blindside flanker, Josh van der Flier at openside and captain Doris packing down at number eight
Easterby has experienced options on the bench to call upon
with the fit-again Dan Sheehan, Cian Healy, Thomas Clarkson, Iain Henderson and Jack Conan providing the forward reinforcements
with backs Conor Murray, Jack Crowley and Robbie Henshaw competing Ireland’s Match Day Squad
Joe McCarthy is unavailable due to injury
Interim Head Coach Easterby said: “We’ve come off the back of a good week’s training in Quinta do Lago and I have been hugely impressed by the effort of the squad
We’ve enjoyed some competitive sessions and it wasn’t easy selecting a squad for this week’s game given the quality of those who haven’t made the final 23
Credit to those who missed out on selection for this game
there was obvious disappointment but they all stepped up brilliantly to help prepare the team this week
“England are a talented squad with quality across their panel and we know that we will need to hit the ground running to deliver a winning performance
“The atmosphere will be electric come kick off and I know how excited the Irish public will be to see their team perform
That opportunity to represent the Irish people is something that always motivates the players and there has been real intent in how they have approached this week’s training
We’re ready for the challenge and excited to get going.”
Meadhbh Byrne produced a player of the match performance as Dunshaughlin Royal Gaels earned their second successive Meath SFC title in Páirc Tailteann last Sunday and this Sunday at 1pm they will venture into provincial action when they welcome Kildare champions Eadestown to their superb grounds at Dunshaughlin, writes Aisling Clery.
The team in black and amber were 1-10 to 0-10 winners against Dunboyne when they retained their Meath SFC title.
Indeed, they produced a huge display, coming from behind with Meadhbh Byrne getting the all important goal from a rebounded penalty.
They will have home advantage against five in a row Kildare winners Eadestown.
The Gráinne Kenneally captained side were 5-15 to 0-6 winners against St Laurences in their final. Abaigh Cahill remembered her shooting boots, hitting an impressive 3-6 in the final with Siobhan O’Sullivan and Kenneally netting the other two goals.
They are sure to pose a threat upfront, but Dunshaughlin also can call on the services of former Meath captain Niamh O’Sullivan and Byrne to inflict some damage on the scoreboard.
A tough challenge awaits both sides with Dunshaughlin Royal Gaels expected to get the win before travelling down the road to Navan to cheer on the club's men's team in the Meath SFC final against Wolfe Tones at 3pm.
Dunshaughlin Royal Gaels - M O’Hare; R Kato, L Quinn, S Duffy; K McTigue, S O’Muirí, K Kealy; N Gallogly, E Moyles; C Gorman, L Murray, E Kennedy; N McEntee, N O’Sullivan, M Byrne.
Eadestown - A Jebb; M Ryan, D Tierney, AM Logue; Á Mernagh, R Sargent, A Clifford; S O’Sullivan, L Byrne; A Hynes, G Clifford, J Harney; T Bedford, G Kenneally, A Cahill.
Meath Chronicle is part of Celtic Media Group which includes: The Anglo Celt, Connaught Telegraph, Offaly Independent, Westmeath Examiner and Westmeath Independent| © 2021 Meath Chronicle and Celtic Media Group. All rights reserved.
Niall Cummins holds off Brian McLoughlin during Eadestown's very impressive win over Clane Photo: Sean Brilly
“He or she might, you never know,” I replied.
This column, you may have noticed, can get its knickers in a twist at the slightest thing. The colour of seats, the quantity of them, an advertising hoarding hanging lopsided for three years. That sort of thing.
I’m told I’m a pessimist but, as George Bernard Shaw argued, both optimists and pessimists contribute to society. The optimist invents the aeroplane, the pessimist the parachute. We all have our place.
There were chinks of light in the Kildare GAA world this week and it’s important we acknowledge that.
Firstly, Wednesday evening brought the appointment of the clear and obvious candidate Brian Flanagan to the senior manager role in time for the start of the Senior and Intermediate championships. Flano will be filling a few of those black notebooks he loves over the coming weekends.
Then on Thursday night, Kildare GAA caved in and allowed itself to be dragged kicking and screaming (or streaming?) into the 21st century with the news that it had done a deal with the Clubber TV organisation to broadcast live championship games online this summer.
I am not sure you can measure the impact in normal profit and loss terms either and thankfully most counties seem to be on board with the need to capture the hearts and minds of current and future members and supporters through modern media, quite apart from the ties with home it generates for overseas folk.
I did cringe a little when I saw Naas v Johnstownbridge was chosen by (or offered to) Clubber for their debut. With Johnstownbridge missing so many star names the fear was it would be a massacre that would not reflect well on Kildare football. Fair play to them for making a fight of it.
It reminded me of comments from Joe Murphy recently lauding the competitiveness of the Kildare championship. Easy to say when you’re three times county champions, maybe, but we’ll take his comments at face value and the games over the weekend at senior level were certainly tight and, by and large entertaining going by the ones I saw.
I was particularly taken by Eadestown’s win over Clane. The latter should perhaps be the closest competitors to Naas given the talent available to them, but they hadn’t the same fight or spirit as Eadestown, who it has to be said have some very good footballers.
Indeed, one of the themes of the weekend was the number of good dual players in action. Eadestown had the three Boran boys and Cian in particular impressed me as a very talented big ball player. Maynooth had Cathal McCabe in fine form, Allenwood had Johnny Byrne and Naas have one or two as well as we know.
In the past the football set-up might have had first pick of those lads but the work going into hurling development, the competitiveness of our teams and the professionalism of the county set-up means that is no longer the case.
Mind you, if I were Flano I’d still be picking one or two battles to have with Brian Dowling! After all, two of Kildare’s greatest footballers, Pat Dunney and Tommy Carew, were also two of our most renowned hurlers nationally. Different times of course.
There’s not much hurling played in Athy these days, more’s the pity, but their game with Maynooth certainly had a hurling scoreline. That was the maddest game of football I’ve seen in a long time for a senior championship match.
I can only imagine an Ulster coach (Aidan O’Rourke?) looking on as both sides played fifteen on fifteen, and players just ran freely and directly at the opposition with little or no resistance coming back at them. They were like cattle let into the field come springtime.
No doubt modern coaches would describe it as naïve, but it was a game that enthralled spectators. I wouldn’t say it was a throw back to the old days as such, as the ball wasn’t being kicked long into a big lad in the square. Some of the passing movements and shooting were sublime.
Maybe the sunshine went to players heads, maybe those tactics weren’t planned? If every team went out to play like that Jim Gavin would be out of a job. But, of course, the exception doesn’t prove the rule and if you took one hundred club games across the country over the next few weeks you might not get another five like that. Cherish it.
It was certainly a stark contrast to the Newbridge derby the night before, which thankfully Clubber didn’t take or weren’t offered. A bore fest with half the population of the town seemingly behind the ball at all times. You couldn’t even entertain yourself with the Hound of Hawkfield who seems to be on holidays or barred from the premises.
One wag joked that Flano had just resigned after watching that one and you wouldn’t blame him.
In the run-up to the senior and intermediate championships starting I’ve been out and about at a few junior games the last few weeks. I don’t recall the last junior player to get a call up to the county panel, but I would hope Flano gets to look at a few players from that championship.
We’ll continue our scouting on behalf of Flano over the coming months. Best of luck to him!
Jimmy O'Brien would have had many familiar faces greet him when he linked up with the Ireland squad for the first time. There are, after all, 16 other Leinster players who journeyed up to camp last Monday evening.
O’Brien is also the latest member of the 2016 Under-20 World Cup squad, they of beating New Zealand’s Baby Blacks fame, to make the transition to the senior set-up. James Ryan, Jacob Stockdale, Hugo Keenan, Andrew Porter, Max Deegan, Will Connors and Shane Daly have all been capped from that group.
More familiar faces aren't too far away in O'Brien's native Eadestown, the Kildare town only 40 minutes down the road from Ireland's gathering in Carton House. He's not the only one close to home. If tales of the parish are what O'Brien is after, he can always chat to Tadhg Beirne.
Age and a provincial barrier separate the Munster forward and Leinster’s O’Brien, but there was a time when the two men from Eadestown lined out for the underage football sides of the same local GAA club.
Beirne is five years O’Brien’s senior, so they wouldn’t have played on the same panel, though perhaps a senior debut is a possibility after their rugby-playing days. Both players stopped at minor level when provincial academy contracts were on the line, but the club is more than willing to welcome them back one day given the talent they showed as juniors.
Let's not forget that Rowan Osborne, the Munster scrumhalf, was also a gifted footballer on the same age-group panel as O'Brien.
“If we had those three lads on our senior team it would make a big difference” says Eadestown’s club secretary, Willie Casey, who also coaches in the youth system.
He’s not joking. The prevailing sense in the club is that had these three now professional rugby players not excelled in the Leinster schools system – O’Brien at Newbridge, Beirne and Osborne at Clongowes – there was a stellar senior GAA career with the club waiting for them. Who knows, maybe Kildare would have come calling too.
“We knew early that they were gifted with rugby” says Casey. “Rugby is a big sport in our club as well. It was hard to get them sometimes. They’re nearly professional the way they train in some of the schools. It’s hard to get these lads but we knew early on that they were very gifted. We would never stop them, we were always happy to get a lad when we could get him.”
It’s been years since any of the three picked up a football for Eadestown, but their talent clearly left an impression. It becomes clear that their early GAA days had a significant influence on their rugby futures.
O’Brien is known for positional versatility across the Leinster backline given he has played fullback, wing and centre; Beirne is one of the more skilled forwards on the ball at Andy Farrell’s disposal while, unsurprisingly for a scrumhalf, speed and passing were always Osborne’s talents.
“Rowan was on the same teams as Jimmy” Casey explains. “He was a very skilful GAA player as well, but he was up in college in Dublin and playing rugby there. His brother Ben won an intermediate [championship] with us in 2014. Rowan would have been on that team but he was involved with Leinster and getting run-outs with them at the time.
“Tadhg would have been a similar story, obviously taller. Very gifted, great hands. He may have played one or two matches with the senior team but that was the time he was pushing his luck with Leinster and then he went off to Wales.
“He had great hands and was a very nice fella. I do always wonder how these lads are so normal. Some lads are so gifted, become professional and they might get a bit cocky but these lads are very down to earth. Maybe it’s the way they’re coached now.
“Jimmy was a midfielder on the team, our main player and he had unbelievable skill, great hands; probably was our top scorer in every game. We could have played him anywhere, we moved him in different positions during matches but he was equally as good in every position.
“He was always able to do everything himself, win the ball, take lads on. He had the speed and the scoring ability. That’s the other thing, there are lots of lads in every county who have great athletic ability but he actually was able to get scores too. He was getting goals and points. He was two-footed, his left foot wasn’t as cultured as it is now, with the professional training he’s improved that big time.
“He was developed perfectly, a great athlete and all that sort of stuff, but when you see some of the guys he’s tackling in rugby . . . you’d be wondering how is he doing it? Obviously it’s technique.
“He’s a nice lad with it too. I’d meet him an odd time around Christmas, he might even be down at the pitch watching matches. If you didn’t tell someone who he was I don’t think people would know he’s a professional athlete. They know who he is now of course.”
A GAA man who is good in the air and seemingly made for playing fullback, there’s a Leinster and Ireland legend in Louth who has that path well trodden. If O’Brien enjoys half the success Rob Kearney did, there will be plenty of happy onlookers, from the Aviva all the way down to the Eadestown clubhouse.
Speaking of which, given the success of the club’s former players, there must be quite a jersey collection up on a wall somewhere by now?
“We’re very into our rugby around the area so I’d say they wouldn’t be let up on the wall, someone would take them!” jokes Casey. “We don’t take advantage of them, we like to see lads doing well and maybe when they’re finished they’ll come back and play a few matches for us.”
Sunday's Italy clash in the Six Nations has come too soon for latest squad member O'Brien to make his debut, so he'll have to wait a while yet to double Ireland's Eadestown representation with Beirne. Osborne is further down the pecking order, so perhaps it is unlikely we'll see the trio ever line out together in green.
They might just have to wait to do so one day in the blue of Eadestown.
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Ger Kavanagh with his wife Helen and grandaughter Sophie Lawler
One of the most prominent figures in Kildare football right now, Grace Clifford, once hailed this man as someone every club would want and added “if there is ever a problem in Eadestown, you can always call Ger Kavanagh.”
Ger is born and bred in the area and has been involved in Eadestown from well before his senior debut in 1968 right up until this very day.
“It means everything to me. There is never a day I’m not up there,” Ger said. “I open up most mornings and I am there most days either meeting someone or doing some little job. I’ve been very lucky to be able to do what I have done and I have to thank my wife Helen for being so supportive of me and allowing me the time to do all this work. Without her support, I wouldn’t be able to do it.”
Ger has been heavily involved in the ladies football side of things in Eadestown since the early 2000s, and has been a huge part of the club’s transition towards having equal opportunities for both senior sides.
“What we are particularly proud of is that both the men and the ladies are playing senior football, which is unique for a small rural club. It doesn’t happen by accident and a lot of work has gone into it by a lot more people than just myself,” Ger explained.
“We have it very simple. If the ladies have a match, they have the main pitch and vice versa. But we go down to play championship matches at another club and it isn’t like that. But in Eadestown there is great equality and the girls appreciate that.”
The Eadestown ladies have won five of the last six Senior Championships in Kildare, including the last four in-a-row. Their staggering achievements on the field are pushed on by continuous support, and common sense solutions, off of it.
“It’s marvellous (the Championship wins) and it drives on the under-age girls teams in Eadestown as well. They want to be as good as they possibly can and play in a Senior Championship final. We have very good mentors at under-age and they are doing their utmost to make these players as good as they possibly can be. We have great role models out there in Eadestown, both men and ladies, we are very, very lucky.”
Ger’s initial involvement with ladies football at the club was also steeped in success when he became part of Paul Kelly’s coaching set-up for the team in 2005. Eadestown ladies were a Junior club at that point in time and had a run all the way to an All-Ireland title in their 2006 campaign.
“That was an enormous achievement for the club back then. We travelled all over the country playing matches. We had a great team and it really set the foundation for ladies football in Eadestown.”
The success over the years has naturally brought about brilliant celebrations for the always passionately supported rural club. Few years more so than in 2006, when they went all the way to All-Ireland glory.
“We have had some great celebrations over the years. In 2006, we won Kildare, Leinster and the All-Ireland Championships and we used to go to Time nightclub. At the same time, the second team won a league as well so there was about four or five weeks in a row where we used to go out on a Sunday night and celebrate those wins. The fellas on the door in the nightclub used to think we were bringing back the same cup every Sunday night,” Ger laughed.
“They were great times and enjoyed by everyone. The recent years have brought about more of those times to remember too. Now this year we hope to win Kildare again and then try to progress in Leinster.”
Eadestown Ladies now operate at the top table of Kildare football and are firmly in the middle of a period of dominance. But Ger Kavanagh’s presence also stretches as far as back as the men's first and only Kildare Senior Football Championship win, when he was a substitute in the SFC winning side of 1970.
“I was very lucky to be a sub on that team at 18 years of age. I thought I was going to get a good few of these Senior Championships, but unfortunately we never got back to a Senior Championship final again. But it was great to win that one,” Ger said.
Eadestown struggled for numbers in the years that followed, with multiple retirements from their experienced Championship winning group. Ger and the squad had to get creative and were pulling numbers from all over to keep football in the area alive.
“We enlisted the help of players from Naas Rugby club, because we had to. Even though there was a ban at that stage where GAA players couldn't be seen to be playing ‘foreign games’. There has been a great bond between Naas RFC and Eadestown over the years, because we were able to keep the show on the road,” Ger smiled.
After keeping the team in operation during the lean years, Ger would lead the club to an Intermediate Championship win as captain and club chairman in 1983. Ger’s committee and playing years had an extended overlap due to the longevity of both.
“I was secretary when I was playing and chairman when I was playing well,” he laughed.
“It was a smaller club then, there weren't as many teams as we have now, but we have 25 teams today, which is wonderful.”Eadestown beat Castledermot 3-11 to 1-9 in the 83 Intermediate county final with a team that had been replenished with great young players, and none more prominent than future All-Ireland winner with Cork, Larry Tompkins.
Ger led the club in many ways over the years and continues to be an integral part of running Eadestown GAA. However, after 37 years of lining out for the Eadestown senior side, he finally saw the writing on the wall following an away trip to Cappagh.
“In the latter years, I would say rather than play for Eadestown, I togged out for Eadestown. I used to bring the boots and if they were short I would tog out. My last game with Eadestown was when I went to Junior league game with the boots in the car, I was 53 at this stage,” Ger recalled.
“When we got down there we had a full team, but Cappagh were missing a player, so I was offered to them. I figured then it was time to hang up the boots. It was ironic that my last ever game I played against my son, my brother Dave, my nephew and then a future son-in-law. It was time to call a halt to it after that.”
Ger may have retired unceremoniously, but he remains very much within the fabric of Eadestown GAA, and has been a part in one way or another with almost every success that the club has enjoyed.
The Leinster Leader will be doing a feature article from every club in Kildare over the coming weeks and months as part of the Love of the Game series.
If you have a suggestion for an article on someone from your club, a legendary player, selfless volunteer or an idea of your own, send them to daragh.nolan@leinsterleader.ie
After picking up his eighth Ireland senior cap against New Zealand in a Rugby World Cup quarter-final on 14 October, 2023, the former Newbridge College student was subsequently ruled out of the 2024 edition of the Six Nations Championship with a neck issue.
A hamstring injury effectively eliminated any prospect of him featuring in last November’s Autumn Nations Series and while he had previously made the Ireland squad for the summer tour of South Africa, he missed out on the match day 23 for both Tests against the Springboks.
Similarly, he is part of the Irish set-up for this year’s Six Nations, but has yet to see any game time in the tournament.
However, O’Brien has been named at full-back for Leinster’s United Rugby Championship clash against Cardiff at the Aviva Stadium this afternoon and this is an ideal opportunity to keep him in the thoughts of interim head coach Simon Easterby ahead of the forthcoming clashes with France and Italy.
“I’ve been in training with the lads in [Ireland] camp and coming back. You’re just trying to get a bit of game time. Because all I’ve been doing is training with the lads in camp. You’re trying to come back and trying to play well, get a bit of minutes in the belt. Hopefully go back into camp next week and you never know,” said O’Brien, who also played for Leinster in their URC win away to Ospreys on February 14.
“The aim is obviously to be back in and try to play again with Ireland. You can only do that by playing well for Leinster. I missed out on last year’s Six Nations and the autumn with Ireland. I obviously haven’t gotten a chance with them yet. I’ve still been in the squads whenever I’m fit, but it’s tough to break back into the Ireland squad.
While Ireland opted for a 6/2 split against France, Wales and England in the 2024 Six Nations, this is something Leinster have also done with their bench in the past – including last year’s European Champions Cup final defeat to Toulouse.
Considering he had appeared as a replacement in the last-four triumph over Northampton Saints in Croke Park, O’Brien arguably missed out on the match day 23 for this showpiece due to the Leinster coaching team’s preference for naming an extra forward in reserve.
Although he acknowledges it is tough when you are left out under these circumstances, O’Brien feels his ability to play across the back-three and at outside centre could potentially benefit him if the eastern province returned to a 6/2 bench split in the coming months. Of course, having started three of the four Champions Cup games that Leinster have played to date in the current season, his ultimate ambition is to be in the first 15 for the business end of Europe and the URC.
“It’s personally frustrating and stuff like that. You’re never happy when you’re not playing and you’re not picked, but you try to deal with that the way you do it. Not allow it to seep into anyone else. Try and help the team out.
Though he won’t be in charge of the team in Dublin, current Wales interim head coach Matt Sherratt is at the helm of Cardiff and O’Brien believes Ireland’s showdown with the Welsh last Saturday offers some indication of the challenge that awaits Leinster this afternoon.
“They’ve been going well in the URC. Obviously you saw their coach went into Wales and they seemed to play a bit more rugby with a more exciting brand. It is going to be tough, but hopefully we can put in a big performance at home,” O'Brien added.
Naas Dermot Hanafin is held up by Eadestown Ben Osborne in the Joe Mallon SFC, Group A game. Photo: Sean Brilly
Joe Mallon Motors Senior Football Championship Group A round 1
Naas recorded a seven point win over Eadestown in Group A of the SFC at St Conleth's Park on Saturdy afternoon, the second game of a four game programme.
While Naas were never in danger of losing this one, full credit goes to Eadestown who worked their socks off from start to finish, had an excellent second half and while they lost, they will gave a team or two much to worry about before this championship is over.
Naas had a lot of possession but certainly did not convert anything like what they would have expected to but have no doubt there is a lot better to come from the champions.
The game got off an explosive start as right from the throw-in, won by Naas, a quick move ended with Dermot Hanafin being fouled in the square. Up stepped Eamonn Callaghan who coolly planted the ball to the left of Eadestown keeper Mikey Quinn.
A big run from Padraig Tuohy saw the county man pass a number of defenders before being fouled and Cian Bolton duly popped over the free.
Eadestown lined out without the influential Emmet Bolton, a big set-back for Dessie Brennan's side, ,while Eoin Cummins picked up an injury in the warm-up.
Darragh Kirwan hit a couple of early wides before Shane Bergin punched a point, quickly followed by an Eamonn Callaghan free, and another from open play to leave the score reading Naas 1-3 Eadestown 0-1 with 15 on the clock.
Ronan Slattery picked up a yellow for a foul on Eamonn Callaghan — the Naas veteran received a few heavy knocks throughout the game – this time Luke Mullins came forward and extended the lead.
Daragh Kirwan had five attempts at scoring at this stage, hitting four wides and one off the post before he set up Paul McDermott; Callaghan added a point before Dermot Hanafin made it 1-7 to 0-1 after 28 minutes.
Eoin Doyle picked up a yellow for a foul on Conor McCarthy, Rian Boran got his side's second of the afternoon to leave it Naas 1-8 Eadestown 0-2 at the break.
On the resumption and Darragh Kirwan finally raised a white flag before Mikey Quinn denied Eamonn Callaghan with an excellent save.
Eadestown had plenty of ball but their problem was up front where a final pass, coupled with some excellent defending from Naas, saw them struggle here.
A brilliant through ball from Rian Boran saw Sean O'Sullivan hit an excellent point before James Burke and Conor McCarthy exchanged points.
Dermot Hanafin found James Burke inside and he made it 1-10 to 0-4 on 38 minutes.Eadestown then enjoyed their best period of the game hitting four points on the trot from Eoin Conneff (2), Cian Bolton and Conor McCarthy to reduce the deficit to five.
Luke Mullins converted a free, Ben Fitzsimons replied while Alex Beirne got his only point of the day followed by another Eoin Conneff.
Darragh Kirwan, Brian Stynes and Eamonn Callaghan completed the Naas scores before a bit of skirmish developed which ended with Alex Beirne and Cian Bolton being shown yellow.
Naas, Eamonn Callaghan 1-4 (2 frees), Darragh Kirwan 0-2, Luke Mullins 0-2 (2 frees), Paul McDermott 0-2, Dermot Hanafin 0-1, Shane Bergin 0-1, James Burke 0-1, Brian Stynes 0-1, Alex Beirne 0-1.
Eadestown, Eon Conneff 0-3, Cian Bolton 0-3 (2 frees), Conor McCarthy 0-2 (1 free), Sean O'Sullivan 0-1, Ben Fitzsimons 0-1, Rian Boran 0-1.
NAAS: Luke Mullins; Cathal Daly, Brian Byrne, Mark Maguire; Paddy McDermott, Eoin Doyle cpt., Eoghan Prizeman; Alex Beirne, James Burke; Brian Kane, Paul McDermott, Shane Bergin; Eamonn Callaghan, Darragh Kirwan, Dermot Hanafin. Subs: Brian Stynes for Brian Kane (51 minutes); Ciaran Doyle for Paul McDermott (51 minutes); Tim Ryan for Paddy McDermott (57 minutes).
EADESTOWN: Mikey Quinn; Ronan Slattery, Conan Boran, Ben Osborne; Daire Dillon, Jack Sargent, Conan Boran; Sean O'Sullivan, Rian Boran; Ben Fitzsimons, Padraig Tuohy, Sean Hynes; Cian Bolton, Eoin Conneff, Conor McCarthy. Subs: Adam Fitzsimons for Daire Dillon (40 minutes); Cian Boran for Sean O'Sullivan (54 minutes).
Ireland’s Tadhg Beirne celebrates scoring their third try with Iain Henderson Photo: ©INPHO/Dan Sheridan
It wasn't such a good day, however, for Sam Prendergast as he struggled on his championship debut in the face of intense English pressure.
England opened the scoring with a Cadan Murley try after nine minutes and that set in motion a nervy first half for Ireland.
Ireland thought they pulled back a try seven minutes later but Ronan Kelleher's effort was ruled out due to an infringement in the ruck by Beirne.
That Irish try did eventually arrive in the 36th minute when Jamison Gibson-Park went over but Prendergast clipped the outside of the post with the conversion attempt.
Marcus Smith then stroked over a penalty to leave England 10-5 ahead at half time.
Ireland were a different team in the second half and levelled the scores with a Bundee Aki try in the 52nd minute.
Prendergast couldn't add on the extras from a difficult kick but did score his first Six Nations points four minutes later when he nailed a penalty after a Maro Itoje infraction.
That was Prendergast's last significant involvement and he was replaced just short of the hour mark by Jack Crowley.
Crowley's introduction coincided with Ireland's best spell in the game and Beirne's big moment came in the 64th minute. James Lowe made a brilliant line break and had options right and left but chose to pick out Beirne and the big Eadestown man stayed going before crossing the line for his 12th Irish try on his 57th appearance.
The Aviva Stadium was bouncing when Ireland secured the bonus point in the 72nd when Lowe was provider, this time to Dan Sheehan who crashed home for Ireland's fourth try. Crowley converted both those tries to leave Ireland 27-10 ahead.
There will surely be some disappointment for Simon Easterby and the Irish management that instead of shutting the game down, Ireland let England in for two tries after that meant they left Dublin with a bonus point but overall it was a very good day indeed.
Conor Hartley drives through the challenge of Eadestown Conan Boran in the Joe Mallon Motors SFC pre-quarter final at Manguard Park on Sunday
Sarsfields are safely through to the quarter-final of the Joe Mallon Motors Senior Football Championship following their com-prehensive win over Eadestown at Manguard Park on Sunday afternoon
It was a game marred by an accidental clash between Ben McCormack and his fellow team mate Ray Cahill
that saw the game held up for some six minutes before the county man was helped off
The county man was brought to hospital where he was retained overnight for observation
It was Eadestown who got off to a flying start with a point after 45 seconds from Rian Boran; Jack Sargent adding a second a minute later as the boys in blue were attacking into the Milltown end of Manguard Park
Sarsfields who only made it to the pre-quarter due to Naas and Athy drawing their last game in the group the previous weekend
but slowly the Newbridge side got into their stride and they opened their account with that man Barry Coffey
carrying on from where he left off against Maynooth the previous week
with a pointed free; and he added a second soon after to level up matters after eight minutes
Eadestown regained the lead after Conan Boran was fouled and Eadestown captain
who had a red card over turned on appeal from the game against St Laurence's
and the full forward split the posts to make it 0-3 to 0-2
who is keeping up his fine scoring rate for Sarsfields
hit a fine point from the right corner position
and minutes later we had that long delay after Ben McCormack was forced off
After a delay of some six minutes it was Sarsfields who upped their game hitting points from Conor Hartley
Callum Bolton and a fine punched effort from Karl Hartley to make it 0-6 to 0-3 after 24 minutes
both on the pitch and the scoreboard and added points from substitute Alan Smith; Barry Coffey a free
Colm Harnett put Kieran Dwyer through with a deft kick pass but Shane Sargent was equal to the task and saved with his legs
Alan Smith found Barry Coffey who took and converted a mark before Cian Bolton converted a late free for Eadestown to leave the half-time score reading Sarsfields 0-10 Eadestown 0-4
Eadestown looked in real trouble at that stage but just as they did in the first half opened brightly with points from Conor McCarthy and Cian Bolton to reduce the deficit to four points
Vital GoalThen probably the score that killed off the game as a contest arrived when a long free in from Barry Coffey seemed to be under control by Eadestown keeper Shane Sargent
but he failed to control the ball and despite help near from a defender the ball ended up in the back of the net to make it 1-10 to 0-6 with just 34 minutes on the clock.Cian Boran and a Conor McCarthy mark reduced the deficit but there was no denying Sarsfields
Conor Hartley and McCarthy exchanged points before the final nail in the Eadestown coffin arrived mid-way through with Alan Smith finishing off a move that began in soccer style and ended in true Gaelic fashion with Alan Smith finding the net to make it 2-11 to 0-9 after 45 minutes
Four points on the trot saw the lead pushed out to eleven points while Cian Bolton blasted a 20m free off the cross bar which was cleared
Conor McCarthy hit the final point of the game but it was not enough for Eadestown as Sarsfields advanced to the quarter-final
and a date with Celbridge this coming weekend
on a final score line of Sarsfields 2-15 to 0-11
SARSFIELDS : Mark Courtney-Byrne; Cian Hughes
Subs: Alan Smith for Ben McCormack (19 minutes); Con Kavanagh for Karl Hartley (44 minutes); Dan Nea for Ray Cahill (49 minutes); Gary White for Tadhg Hoey (52 minutes); Tom Aspell for Cian Byrne (52 minute)
Subs: Ben Fitzsimons for Adam Fitzsimons (42 minutes); Daire Dillon for Rian Monahan (52 minutes)
Eadestown Jessica Harney holds off the challenge of Tinhely Roisin Byrne in the Leinster Ladies Club SFC semi-final at Eadestown
Leinster Ladies Club Senior Football Championship semi-final
Wicklow champions Tinahely are into the Leinster Ladies Club Senior Football Championship final after defeating Kildare champions Eadestown
Checking the final result would not do the story of this game justice as Eadestown led by seven points at the break
Eadestown’s lead was well deserved too as they punished a Tinahely defence who were nothing short of all over the place in the first half
The Eadestown front line could hardly believe their luck as they were granted ample space and multiple looks at Shona Byrne’s goal.
The standout opening half performance was undoubtedly Ruth Sargent
the centre back drove at Tinahely consistently throughout the half and got 1-1 in that time
The goal came on 18 minutes as Eadestown finally punished the scattered Tinahely defence.
Sargent was on the end of an exceptional team goal which saw three of its stars link up and end in Sargent blasting the ball into the roof of the net
Sargent was part of a dominant Eadestown half that perhaps should have ended with them even further ahead
The other first half goal came from full-forward Angela McGuigan
Eadestown’s star in their county final success
as she gathered possession she turned to skin her marker and was now one on one with Shona Byrne in the Tinahely goal
McGuigan gave the on-rushing goalkeeper the same treatment as she did to her marker as she glided past her to finish coolly into an empty net
A point from Jessica Harney just 20 seconds after the second half got under way extended Eadestown lead to eight
that would be the last score the home side would get until the 54th minute
It was time for Tinahely to mount their comeback and they were led by one woman
Rarely does a player who comes off the bench immediately establish themselves as the best on the field
The ball was sent into the half-forward twice just after her entrance
Mulhall on both occasions drove at the Eadestown backline and slotted exceptional scores between the posts
Mulhall is best known for her role as Irish rugby sevens captain and she took control of this Championship semi-final following her introduction
The next crucial action came on 36 minutes as Eadestown were beginning to feel the heat
Tinahely were awarded a penalty and Eadestown captain in all but name Grace Clifford was set for 10 minutes on the sideline for what was judged to be a cynical infringement earlier in the move
Tinahely full-forward Jackie Kinch dispatched the penalty
the power she managed to get on her effort was enough to beat Siobhán Tierney in the Eadestown goal
Eadestown still led by two but in truth they would never recover from this sequence of events.
upon her reintroduction her side trailed by three and had not so much as looked up the pitch in that time
The Kildare captain is integral to everything Eadestown do and without her presence as much as her play
this game was destined for a bad end for the girls in blue
In their county final win against Sarsfields
Clifford was always the out-ball when her side was under pressure
Without that in this game and with nobody willing or able to take that mantle
Tinahely turned the ball over high up the pitch time and time again and racked up comfortable scores
Siobhán Tierney’s kickouts were often back on top of her before she knew it as Eadestown just could not get out
Tinahely kicked six points on the trot following the penalty
with an air of inevitability following one to the next
The pick of the bunch from those scores once again came from Lucy Mulhall as she converted efforts from long distance that there was little that anyone could do to stop
Following two changes and Grace Clifford returning
Eadestown now had to attempt to mount a comeback of their own
An Angela McGuigan free-kick ended the home side’s 24 minute scoring drought
in stark contrast to the first half Tinahely had tightened up at the back as they looked to protect their lead
As Eadestown pushed high they left space behind them and were given one last dagger to the heart as Tinahely hit them on the break
Laura Hogan would round off the move and the game as she smashed home a brilliant goal-bound effort
The loss for Eadestown is among the hardest types of defeat in sport
It is easier to take being outclassed or narrowly edged but to feel as if the house came crashing down around you in those crucial moments is tough to take
it is a time for self-reflection for the Kildare champions and to take this one on the chin
A tough day for those players but they are a team full of exceptional talent who will undoubtedly come again
Subs: Eimear O'Sullivan on for Niamh Kenny (32 minutes)
Lucy Mulhall on for Eimear O'Brien (Half time)
Sarah Byrne on for Emily Mulhall (44 minutes)
Rachel Byrne on for Ciara Byrne (51 minutes)
Subs: Kate Murphy on for Sara Carroll (Half time)
Laura Byrne on for Hazel McLoughlin (53 minutes)
Eadestown's Ben Osbourne lays off pass as Maynooth star moves in to challenge
Joe Mallons Motor Senior Football Championship Group A
Maynooth and Eadestown shared the points in what was an absolutely thrilling game played under the evening sunshine
There was more drama in additional time in this one than some games get in a full 60 minutes
Eadestown entered additional time with a one point lead but saw that disappear due to an exceptionally taken Neill Flynn free-kick
The full-forward registered 0-7 on the day and was Maynooth’s main scoring threat
it looked like it would be young wing-forward Sean Hever who was going to win it for his side
He received the ball in space before stroking the ball between the posts with 62 minutes now on the clock
Maynooth went into preservation mode and began playing the ball around the back line
Mark Donnellan looked to use his experience and run down the clock as he carried the ball forward to his own 21-metre line
The Don turned back towards his own goal and hand passed it loosely toward his corner-back who was judged to have handled the ball on the ground as he went to collect the stray pass
It was a simple kick but pressure does strange things to players
but it did nothing to put off Eadestown’s Conor McCarthy who slotted it over
The white flag was soon followed by the full-time whistle and although a draw was a fair result
Maynooth will know they gave away a valuable point
The game was tense throughout and neither side ever amounted much of a gap but the game sprung into life as Eadestown sat with a two-point lead with three minutes remaining in the first half
broke through the Maynooth back line and squared the ball to Cian Bolton who just had to hit the target as Donnellan had left his post but punched wide of the mark
That miss would sting even more as Maynooth went down the other end and found a goal chance of their own
Fionn Ó Giollán found himself one-on-one with Mikey Quinn and as the forward attempted to round the Eadestown keeper he was tripped by Quinn and earned his side a penalty
Eoin Donnellan stepped up and gave Quinn every chance for redemption with an effort to the keeper’s left
Quinn got a hand to it but failed to keep it out
Eadestown would have to wait ten minutes into the second half to see a green flag raised in their name and it was Rian Boran who got it
The midfielder did it all himself as he put pressure on a short Donnellan kick-out before turning the ball over
The sides traded points from there until their thrilling conclusion in added time
A share of the points was a fair representation of a brilliant game
Subs: Ruadhan O'Giollan on for Jack Murnane (28 minutes)
Phillip Murphy on for Paul Maguire (57 minutes)
Subs: Eoin Woods on for Aidan Cassidy (57 minutes)
USE THE ARROWS OR 'NEXT' TO BROWSE THROUGH THE FULL GALLERY
Eadestown House is a magnificent four-bed residence with an award-winning design not to be missed
The property incorporates all modern conveniences while still retaining the charm and grandeur of a traditional country home
The first floor is well laid out for family purposes with three double rooms
The principal bedroom offers panoramic views over the surrounding countryside and is complete with walk in wardrobe and ensuite
The other two bedrooms also have ensuites with showers
The second floor offers a further double bedroom
Back down the stairs to the lower ground floor
you will find the kitchen at the heart of the residence
Double doors lead out to the light-filled patio area
and across from the kitchen is the family room for everyday relaxing. To the rear of the house
The equestrian facilities include a fully enclosed stable block of 5 stables with an access point from the road
There is good access to the grass paddocks and scope to develop more facilities
The lands are well sheltered and include some 12.6 Hectares (31.2 Acres) of grazing pasture surrounding the house and the yards
There are good large paddocks with stud railing and excellent boundaries throughout
A superb addition to the property is The Lodge; a detached property situated in the yard with its own access point
The true elegance of this residence shines throughout
and this property is certainly one for those with distinguished taste. The property is listed with an asking price of €1,850,000 on Daft.ie
Eadestown Eoin Cummins lays off his hand pass as Johnstownbridge Josh O'Donoghue closes in during the Joe Mallon Motors SFC clash at Hawkfield
Full match reports from both Eadestown vs Johnstownbridge and Clane vs Confey below
Eadestown caused a major shock in the Preliminary Round of the SFC when sending Johnstownbridge to the Losers group following a comprehensive
having picked up just a single point in 11 games in the league but on Friday evening they attacked Johnstownbridge right from the throw-in and when Padraig Tuohy raced through their defence he set up an unmarked Sean Hynes for an opening goal
It was a lead the Rathmore men would never relinquish
Stunned from that opening score Daniel Flynn pointed a free after he was fouled and when Cathal McNally was fouled 60 seconds later he to pointed to close the gap to one
Conor McCarthy with a pointed free and Josh O'Donoghue point from play kept the gap at one as we passed the 12 minute.Eadestown were playing with a high tempo and a great work-rate and they turned over the ball on numerous occasions as Johnstownbridge struggled with their intensity
Two Conor McCarthy frees and points from Eoin Conneff and Aidan Cassidy
after Jack Sargent played a delightful pass
moved Eadestown into a five point lead on 17 minutes
Johnstownbridge needed to up their game and the Flynns
combined for a Daniel mark that he duly pointed.Keith Cribben burst forward from centre back but was fouled 30 metres from goal
brother Paul pointed and suddenly the gap was back to three
Just when you thought Johnstownbridge would step up they were dealt the blow of a second Eadestown goal
Rian Boran fielded brilliantly before setting up Padraig Tuohy whose run across the end-line saw his centre find an unmarked Sean Hynes who palmed past a stranded Eoin Sheehan
Paul Cribben and a Conor McCarthy free left it 2-6 to 0-6 in favour of Eadestown at the break
The second half promised a Johnstownbridge revival but despite promotion in the league their form had deserted them over the past couple of weeks.Two Paul Cribben frees a free from Josh O'Donoghue and one from play from Luke Flynn was all they could muster in the closing 30 minutes
Eadestown continued to work tirelessly and Dessie Brennan's men continued in the same vein for the second half
They frustrated Johnstownbridge time and time again with their superior work-rate and they forced Daniel Flynn out 40 and 50 yards to gain possession
The impressive Conor McCarthy kicked three second half points to bring his tally to seven and only for a brilliant Eoin Sheehan save on 45 he would have raised a green flag
Padraig Touhy and county hurling star Rian Boran rounded off an impressive Eadestown victory
Eadestown have guaranteed their senior status for 2023 but their venture into the winners group will be a much different task With the work-rate and attitude shown tonight they can look forward with hope
Johnstownbridge were disappointing to say the least and upward trajectory in their fortunes will be needed to advance in the championship EADESTOWN: Mikey Quinn
JOHNSTOWNBRIDGE: Eoin Sheehan; Sean McKeown
Cathal McNally 0-1 (1 free); Seamus McNally
Subs: Kevin Lynch for Aaron McNally (51 minutes); Glen Doran for Ronan Scanlon (56 minutes); Sean Hurley for Darragh Sloane (58 minutes)
Clane defeated Confey to get their Senior Football Championship campaign off to a winning start on Saturday at Hazelhatch Road
These top division sides finished just two points apart in the league and this fixture was looked at on the weekend’s schedule as one of the hardest to call
Clane were by far the better team in the opening half putting over 10 points in the process
It was a different story for Confey who struggled to create any meaningful chances
with them failing to score from play in the first half
The three white flags that were raised in their name came when Clane lacked discipline and all looked like avoidable fouls
Leading by seven at the break and the manner of performance that was put in by their opposition it looked a certainty to be more of the same as the teams swapped ends
But Confey’s introduction of James Gately into their forward line at half-time appeared to give the trailing side something different
The substitute scored 0-3 in the second half and perhaps created a doubt in the minds of those Clane defenders who had been largely uncontested in that opening half
The second half water break came and Clane still had a healthy six-point advantage but focus seemed to drop slightly for the leaders and Confey began to claw their way back into this game
You could feel the tension rise in the Clane players
Given how comfortable the first 50 or so minutes were
it looked like they were doing their best to throw this one away
Poor decision making and needlessly complicating things looked like it might get them into trouble
They had kicked five wides and converted just three scores 20 minutes into the second half
It was a long ball into the Confey backline that would finally put an end to their comeback hopes as a long searching ball was sent in for Shane O’Sullivan to slap towards goal
The effort came back off the crossbar and it was slapped goalwards again but this time saved by Confey keeper Colin Heeney
Finally it was Brian McLoughlin who would put an end to the goal-mouth scramble as he collected the ball and smashed it into the roof of the net
The first green flag of the evening was the end of the Confey comeback and with 15 minutes remaining both sides reduced their intensity and played out the clock
Both teams were respectively resigned to and satisfied with the result
In the end Confey lacked the attacking threat that Clane had with the likes of Brian McLoughlin and Shane O’Sullivan who amassed 1-11 of Clane’s 1-15 scoreline between them
However Clane fans and management will be disappointed in the drop off period they experienced in the second half
Being good in patches will only get you so far and it will be interesting to see how Clane will match up against stronger opposition down the line
Subs: Hugh Prendergast for Sam Reilly (Half time)
Sam McCormack on for Cathal O'Brien (40 minutes)
Cormac Vizzard for Adam Fanning (55 minutes)
Sean Christianseen for Cian Shanghan (68 minutes)
Subs: James Gately for Neil Ryan (Half time)
Davy Burke presents Eadestown captain Rose Mernagh with the Ciaran Burke Cup
Eadestown are once again Senior Ladies Football Champions after a dominant win over Sarsfields.It’s unfair to an entire squad of players
Angela McGuigan final would be no understatement
the Eadestown full forward kicked 1-7 of her side’s 1-11 tally with just three points coming from set-pieces
They were all crucial contributions but it would be the second half penalty that would truly put this game to bed.Sarsfields started this game brightly
winning the first ball and they looked to settle their nerves with some passing exchanges
The Sash worked the ball well but couldn't find their intended target the first time around
Eadestown not having the ball for the opening 90 seconds clearly didn't sit well with the girls in blue as they seized control of this game
After a game opening score by Siobhan O’Sullivan
it was the beginning of the Angela McGuigan show as she rattled off the next four scores in a row
The pick of the bunch coming from a handpass into her
she spun her marker and knocked the ball over with relative ease
Sarsfields got just two scores in the first half as Eadestown racked them up down the other end
But they were two scores of the highest quality from Orlagh Judge and Elaine Keogh
The scores demonstrated the opposite of what you might think if you just looked at the final score
Four points scored throughout the game and immediately fingers could be pointed at the forward line
the problems for the Sash lay much further back
Sarsfields inability to work the ball up the pitch under Eadestown pressure and get the ball into those forwards was the big drawback in this performance
Eadestown entered the half with a 0-9 to 0-2 lead after Angela McGuigan had chalked up a few more
The second half started and for 15 minutes it was all Sarsfields
it was their time to apply pressure in the manner they had been receiving in the first half
Eadestown didn’t score until 17 minutes into the second half and although it wasn’t on the scoreboard they were under far less pressure than their opponents suffered in the first
Eadestown throughout seemed like a team who had been here before
Their decision making in key moments and confident performances throughout the XV were the difference between the teams
There were two clear spells in the game where each side dominated the ball
Eadestown for the majority of the first half and Sarsfields for the opening 15 minutes of the second
Each side's response typified the difference between them
Sarsfields looked overawed when Eadestown pushed high and marked body to body
Any Sash set-piece taker was looking left and right for options that weren’t there
Eadestown had Grace Clifford in those tight spaces and pressure moments
Even goal kicks with all the green and white shirts pushed up the pitch Clifford would show for the ball
take that chance and be the one who carried her team forward
That courage was naturally what you’d expect from the Kildare captain but nonetheless it was absolutely invaluable to Eadestown in this game
Time and time again Clifford was the one shouting give me the ball when they were under the cosh and unfortunately for Sarsfields
it was something they lacked when their backs were against the wall
However before Eadestown did get their second half score
the gap was down to five and as always with Gaelic football you know a goal could change the mood in each camp very quickly
Jessica Harney would get Eadestown’s first score of the second half and settle the Eadestown fans ever so slightly
But worries were put to rest just a few minutes later when Eadestown sprung a counter-attack as they looked to catch an attacking Sarsfields out the ball was worked brilliantly into the box and substitute Tara Bedford went to pull the trigger before she was dragged down inside the box
It was an easy decision for the official and the woman of the hour stepped over the spot kick.McGuigan took a deep breath and opened her body up as she side-footed the ball into the net
It was the final crucial moment of this game and it was no surprise who was on the end of it
An exceptional Eadestown display and deserved Senior Champions
Subs: Tara Bedford on for Kate Murphy (37 minutes)
Laura Byrne on for Jessica Harney (56 minutes)
SARSFIELDS: Caoimhe McConnell; Katie Betts Symonds
Subs: Siofra Galvin on for Sadbh McDonnell (Half time)
Molly Price on for Molly Cassidy (Half time)
Keeva May O'Haga on for Fran McGhee (49 minutes)
Muireann O'Loughlin on for Katie Betts Symonds (57 minutes)
Dessie Brennan is back in football and will manage Eadestown in the upcoming season
a club he led to intermediate honours back in 2014 defeating Round Towers in that particular final
Laois native who captained St Joseph's to that county's senior honours back in 1973
going on to capture seven senior titles in total
was in charge of Moorefield in 2006 when they made it back-to-back senior titles
In recent years Dessie has been concentrating on getting his golf handicap down
On his re-appointment to Eadestown who will be opereating in the senior championship again in 2022
the popular retired garda said "I thought I was retired but they (Eadestown) got on to me a few times and it plays on your mind
adding "hope they don't live to regret it."
Knowing Dessie Brennan that certainly won't happen and that's for sure
Eadestown may be a small(ish) rural area on the Kildare-Wicklow border but has produced an incredible amount of top class sports people down the years
not just an Ireland international rugby player but now a Lions player.Tadhg
though is not the only rugby player from the area that has made his mark
others include Ronan Osborne (Leinster Rugby) who played in the 2014 Intermediate final with Eadestown; Diarmuid Killgallon (Connacht Rugby); Jimmy O'Brien (Leinster Rugby); top class GAA folk who have played with Kildare include Emmet Bolton
Larry Tompkins (Kildare and Cork All-Ireland winner); Jack Sargent is a current member of the Kildare senior squad of 2021; while Grace Clifford
involved with the county.In the next few weeks it is expected that two local golfers will be awarded golf scholarships in the US and they can certainly have one of their own to try and emulate as Maura Morrin played international golf for Ireland for over a decade
winning multiple national and provincial titles and is now a golf pro who runs a successful coaching business.Not sure what's in the water up in Eadestown area but whatever it is it should be bottled and passed around the rest of the county
PHOTOS: Kildare TG4 ladies football Intermediate champions celebrate at Eadestown GAA
Kildare Captain Grace Clifford at Eadestown GAA
The new playground at Eadestown will open to the public on next Monday
This fantastic new facility is located just off the Blessington Road
The playground cost €160,000 to construct and features a wide range of innovative play equipment suitable for children between the ages of 1 and 12
It also includes seats and accessible picnic benches to meet the needs of all playground users
This new family facility has been designed
built and equipped to the highest international standards
Kildare Co Council said it hopes the attraction will add to outdoor play opportunities in the local area and enhance quality of life for residents in the parish of Eadestown and beyond
A spokesperson added: "We’re very proud to deliver this important community project and wish you many happy years of free family fun at Eadestown Playground
"Details of an official opening event will be announced once the newly-elected Council is in place."
Eadestown Playground was funded from Local Property Tax funds in the Naas Municipal District
Naas Councillors assigned Local Property Tax funds to four new playgrounds in total including Eadestown
The playgrounds in Eadestown and Kill have now been completed and the Sallins project is underway
Construction will commence at the Caragh site in the coming weeks
Many thanks to everyone involved for their goodwill and support
Eadestown's Eoin Conneff under challenge from two St Laurence's men
Joe Mallon Motors Senior Football Championship preliminary quarter-final
Eadestown came good in the second half of this Joe Mallon Motors SFC pre-quarter final to book a place in the quarter-final proper and a date with Naas
following this fully deserved win over St Laurence's on Friday at Hawkfield
Dessie Brennan's men trailed by seven points early in the second half but took over after a penalty and a second yellow card for Eoin Curley
Eadestown who were in trouble from their own kick-out early on
then pressed up on the Larries kick-out and that along with the extra man took control going on to win by three
Padraig Fogarty opened a free and while Cian Bolton replied it was The Larries who dominated early on
which had the Eadestown fans roaring their disapproval
Felix Lawler converted a free as did Padraig Fogarty to lead 0-3 to 0-1 after five.Eadestown's Eoin Cummins and Sean O'Sullivan then picked up yellows along with a lecture from the match official but played resumed with a kick-out after a Larries wide
Cian Bolton reduced the deficit before Felix Lawler added two points (1 free) to extend the lead to three.Coming up to mid-way in the half Eadestown got right back into it after Padraig Tuohy won a kick-out carried before putting Conor McCarthy in and the corner forward made no mistake to level the game 0-5 to 1-2
Podge added a free for Larries before Adam Steed was in on goal fut fired straight at Shane Sargent as referee brought play back for a free and Felix Lawler made no mistake to put two between them
Emmet Bolton got forward for a point before Cian Bolton was handed a black card on 22 minutes and in fairness St Laurence's made very good use of their extra man adding four points to Eadestown's one to lead 1-10 to 1-4
On the resumption Felix Lawler pushed the lead out to seven again before Eadestown got the break they needed when Ben Fitzsimons passed to Eoin Conneff who was fouled by Eoin Curley
A minute later the unfortunate Curley picked up a second yellow and suddenly Eadestown came pouring forward.Conor McCarthy (free) and Aidan Cassidy cut the lead back to two and while Padraig Fogarty put it back to three
points from Cian Bolton and Eoin Conneff left one separating the sides
Felix Lawler pushed it out to two again before Cian Bolton (free) left the minimum between them
A missed close-in from free Cian Bolton and a poor wide from Eoin Conneff had the Eadestown fans on the edge of their seats.With ten to go Padraig Tuohy
Eoin Cummins and Eoin Conneff combined for the latter to find the net and while Jason McHugh reduced the lead back to one
Eadestown hit back with points from Conneff
Podge Fogarty converted two frees as we went three minutes over time with two in it but Cian Bolton hit a beauty as the long whistle arrived Eadestown winning by three 3-13 to 1-16
Scorers: Eadestown Conor McCarthy 1-1 (1 free)
St Laurence's Padraig Fogarty 0-6 (3 frees
Subs: Eoin Woods for Sean O'Sullivan (50 minutes); Daire Dillon for Eoin Cummins (54 minutes); Cian Malone for Aidan Cassidy (56 minutes)
ST LAURENCE'S: Richard Redden; Michael O'Sullivan
Subs: Jack Dargan for Niall Clynch (6 minutes); Harry Swan for Conor Perse (37 minutes); Aaron Gorman for Felix Lawler (56 minutes)
Manguard Plus Minor C Football Championship Final
The Minor C Football Title went the way of Newtown Gaels after they battled to a one point victory over Eadestown in St.Conleths Park
Man of the match Eoghan O’Haire’s 59th minute score edged Newtown Gaels in front and after Aidan Cassidy and Shane Sargent missed late frees Newtown held on
It was a game where there was five goals and Eadestown will wonder how they ended up on the losing side after missing a number of chances throughout
Conan Boran and Shane Sargent were Eadestown’s goal scorers but they could never shake off a courageous Newtown Gaels side
Eoghan O’Haire and Daniel Lynham found the net for Newtown Gaels and they eventually ground down their opponents with 0-7 from Daragh Swords having a huge impact on the result
The game was barely a minute old when Newtown Gaels hit the net when Daniel Lynam made a run down the far wing before firing a shot int the top corner past Aaron Lawlor
Eadestown responded in style though as they scored 2-1 in the space of three minutes with a point from Shane Sargent followed up by well taken goals from Conan Boran and Liam O’Carroll
It was an end to end start where there was four goals in the opening ten minutes with Newtown’s second coming from Eoghan O’Haire after he caught a kickout and ran in towards goal before shooting past Lawlor with his left foot
Lynam and Emmet Donoghue then added on points and the Caragh and Robertsown amalgamation led 2-2 to 2-1 at the end of the first quarter
Going behind seemed to entice Eadestown in action with a palmed goal from Shane Sargent after an Aidan Cassidy point attempt hung in the air
Cassidy from a free and Ben Fitzsimons from play added to Eadestown’s tally as they went 3-3 to 2-2 clear
It could have been an even bigger lead but they squandered a few point attempts as well as Fitzsimons having a shot for goal saved
The Gaels finished off the half with a brace of points from Daragh Swords but an Eadestown free in stoppage time from Sargent maintained their two point lead at the break
Eadestown maintained their dominance on the scoreboard with a point from a 45 by Shane Sargent which came moments after the same player had an effort for goal stopped by Adam Doyle
Newtown Gaels replied with a pair of Swords frees to leave the gap at two before the Gaels free taker and Liam O’Carroll exchanged efforts
Newtown were growing in confidence the longer the half went on though and points from O’Haire and Swords had the sides level going into the final ten minutes
A 51st minute point from Adam Lee put Eadestown back in front but that would be their last score of the game
Newtown Gaels equalised a couple of minutes later with a second poinmt from play by Daragh Swords and they then took the lead with one minute left on the clock after Eoghan O’Haire found the target from distance
Eadestown had a couple of late chances to force a replay at the very least but their waywardness in front of goal came back to bite as Sargent kicked a free off the post before Aidan Cassidy screwed another one wide as Newtown Gaels held on for a one point win
Subs used: Leon Murphy for Mernagh 42 mins
Jamie Butler lining up a putt at the Ulster Strokeplay 2023 at Clanedeboye Golf Club
The exploration of that question occupies thousands of column inches each year as fans and writers consider what forges someone into a champion
Jamie Butler is striving to be a champion in his own right
Irish golf has seen a surge in contenders across the sport and the man from Eadestown is now honing his craft in the University of Toledo
and he wants to be the next emerging Irish prospect
The anecdote of Jamie’s upbringing that will undoubtedly be reflected upon should he reach his desired golfing career destination will be his summer days spent at Naas Golf Club
“I would spend all my summers there (Naas GC)
you would be dropped off at 8am in the morning and collected at 6pm
and play as many holes as daylight would allow
There wasn’t much thought that went into it
I have great memories down there” Jamie recalled
Naas Golf club members like Conor O’Rourke and Jonathan Yates have turned professional in the years since and the Eadestown man sees that as an inspiration as he gets experience under his belt while studying accounting in the US.After his initial handicap of 40
a number he says he was unaware went that high when he was given it
Jamie has whittled away at that metric at a rapid rate over the years
the handicap was never a preoccupation of the young golfer when he entered tournament play
Especially when he began to notice that he could raise his level when there was a prize on offer
“When I went to a tournament or championship I always found that I played better than I would usually play
I don’t know whether I was just able to get into the zone or what
but that just gave me a lot of confidence going into tournaments
Even if my handicap wasn’t as low as these guys I knew I could step up a little bit.”
The elevated performances in those events were no accident
the former Eadestown GAA player was meticulous in his planning for each event
and his off-course efforts did plenty to close the gap on opposition who were stronger on paper
“I was always pretty good with playing a practice round
That could take me an hour and half before tournament play
I was always good at doing those little things that I wouldn’t do on a normal day
I think those things brought me up to the level of the so-called better players in those events,” Jamie said
That attention to detail and subsequent tournament success put the young golfer in a strong position to be able to pitch himself to universities stateside
Jamie had to consider all factors before travelling over 5,500kms to Toledo
watched a couple of webinars and I still wasn’t sure if going over there was for me
I like the GAA and I have a lot of friends here of course
I was unsure whether I would miss that too much going over there
he is the head coach at the University of Washington
I asked him questions and he put me in touch with a few coaches and pointed me in the right direction
It was April or May of my leaving cert year when I got an offer to the University of Toledo and coach (Jeff) Roope
It was a great offer and a couple of months later I was on the plane.”
Jamie entered an esteemed golfing programme and one that has only grown over the years due
in part due to the university’s historic home golf club
two men’s PGA Championships and most recently
“We are very fortunate to have it (Inverness)
The week I went over the Solheim Cup was on so we got to volunteer there
be inside the ropes and I got to meet Leona Maguire,” Jamie recalled
The young Irish man was one of what he remembered as about 25 European fans that were at the course due to travel restrictions at the time
But those 25 or so fans got to see their heroes claim a dramatic Solheim Cup victory 15-13 away from home
Jamie would shift his attention to a clear goal in 2023
An obvious target but golf is a sport that could easily lend itself to playing well for an extended period of time without having any silverware to show for it
Jamie had one of the more glamorous venues of the year marked in his calendar
as he headed to Cyprus for the Men’s Amateur Open
“I went there with my mam and chilled out for the week
I got some practice in and entered the tournament
I shot a couple of good rounds to start off but perhaps didn’t feel I got the most out of them
I had a two-shot lead and getting to play in that final group was a first for me,” Jamie said
“I played well that last day and won it by a few shots and it was great to get an international win
There were lads going over to play Division 1 golf in a year or two and some who were about to turn professional so it was a good mixed field
Winning is fun and it’s something in and of itself to learn how to do so that was a big goal of mine.”
The silverware earned in the Mediterranean was a huge boost for the Eadestown man and gave him great momentum as he earned top 10 finishes on home soil in the weeks and months following.charity event
Jamie has undertaken an enormous challenge to give back to those who have supported his journey and raise money for charity
Jamie set off on a 100-hole golf marathon as he raised money for the Jack & Jill Foundation
The young golfer smashed his initial €5,000 even before teeing off as he secured sponsorships from local businesses and donations from club members
Bernard Quigley and I came up with a ‘guess the score’ challenge so members are going to be able to guess how I finish
meant I had to finish out and no matter how tired I was
But it was another nice way that we could generate money,” Jamie said
“I have spoken to families who have worked with the Jack & Jill Foundation and have nothing but great things to say
It’s been a weird few years with Covid and I have been lucky enough to be where I am and I am fortunate enough to be able to give back to a great charity.”
You can donate through the JustGiving page ‘Jamie's fundraiser for The Jack & Jill Children's Foundation’
Eadestown Hazel McLoughlin skips her way through the Sarsfields challenges during the Ladies Senior Football Championship Final
Eadestown were crowned Kildare Ladies SFC champions on Saturday following their two point win over Sarsfields in a cracking final in Hawkfield
Maynooth prevailed in the intermediate while Kill had an impressive victory over Na Fianna in the Junior A decider
LADIES SENIOR CHAMPIONSIP FINALEadestown 1-13 Sarsfields 0-14
LADIES INTERMEDIATE CHAMPIONSIP FINALMaynooth 3-11 Kilcullen 1-14
JUNIOR A CHAMPIONSHIP FINALKill 2-13 Na Fianna 1-7
Full reports in this week's Leinster Leader
Junior C Champ semi finals Ellistown 5-11 Castledermot 3-06Two Mile House 4.07 Sallins 1.09
in possession and holding off Aoibhe O'Brien of Portlaoise
Leinster Ladies Club Football Championship
The Leinster Ladies club football championship got underway this weekend
One of the headline games was the Leinster Senior club championship battle between Eadestown and Portlaoise
Eadestown had just completed three in a row in Kildare
while Portlaoise had surprised St Conleth’s in the Laois showdown
A lot of people would have seen Eadestown as favourites to go through here
but Portlaoise paid no attention to that tagline.Stephen Duff’s side threw everything at the Kildare champions
with an Alison Taylor brace of goals putting Portlaoise ahead down the stretch
Eadestown showed their experience to eke out the victory
Siobhán O’Sullivan and Tara Bedford kicked late scores to help them edge the result here
Eadestown enjoyed the advantage of the wind in the first half and Brian Willis’ ladies wasted no time in getting on the front foot
Siobhán O’Sullivan landed the opening score of the match before the Kildare team struck for the first goal of the game.Tara Bedford showed terrific composure to turn one way
Bedford placed it low through the legs of Portlaoise’s Sarah Fleming
as Eadestown couldn’t have dreamt of a better start on away territory
They could have had a second goal soon after as well
but this time she dragged her effort to the right and wide
Portlaoise opened their account for the afternoon through an Aisling Kehoe point
Eadestown hit back with the next two scores though
as Angela McGuigan landed a free and midfielder Grace Clifford fired over one from play.Portlaoise desperately required a spark
The full-forward crashed in a low piledriver that proved too powerful for the hands of Eadestown keeper
Leah Loughman cut the deficit to the minimum for Portlaoise from a free after Kehoe was fouled.Portlaoise were defending well now and turned over Eadestown several times during this spell.While Angela McGuigan and Siobhán O’Sullivan stretched Eadestown’s lead out to three
Portlaoise could have easily gone in level at the break
Shaunagh Jackson and Gráinne Moran created a goal chance for Kehoe
managed to dive in for a crucial last-second block
Eadestown held a 1-5 to 1-2 lead at the interval in Rathleague
but they would have to play the second half against a decent wind
Portlaoise landed the opening score of the second half through Shaunagh Jackson after strong running from Fiona Dooley set Jackson up for the score
Eadestown replied with an Angela McGuigan point
While Gráinne Moran cut the gap back to two points for Portlaoise with a score
Eadestown struck for their second goal shortly after
Midfielder Grace Clifford charges through the heart of the Portlaoise defence
with Clifford finishing coolly into the bottom left corner as well
Portlaoise did not let that goal bother them though and responded in stylish fashion
Gráinne Moran pointed another off her reliable left boot
and then Portlaoise fired in their second goal
Moran picked out Alison Taylor with a lovely pass inside
but she let fly soccer-style off the ground and it flew into the back of the net
with Eadestown reduced to fourteen players minutes later
Wing-back Gráinne Kenneally was sin-binned following a strong challenge
but Eadestown showed huge character to hit back with the next two scores
Grace Clifford and Abaigh Cahill kicked over points for them
Portlaoise pressurised Eadestown and turned them over close to their own goal
substitute Laura Nerney set up Taylor again and she unleashed a rocket into the top right corner of the net
who were back to fifteen players for the final few minutes
Brian Willis’ team turned over Portlaoise twice in their own half
before Tara Bedford stepped up to pop over the winning point for Eadestown that helped them advance to the Leinster semi-final stage
Angela McGuigan (0-1 free) and Siobhán O’Sullivan (0-1 free) 0-3 each
Shaunagh Jackson and Leah Loughman (free) 0-1 each
Lo-call 1800 208 080 or email: info@presscouncil.ie.