SHANE O’NEILLS GAC
Senior Men
Our senior men suffered a disappointing defeat in the Championship on Saturday evening, losing by three points to Clan na Gael, 1 – 12 to 1 – 9. The Shanes made a better start to the game, racing into a four point lead with Paul O’Rourke, Oisin Murphy, Micheál Brady and Sean McLoughlin on all target before Clan na Gael registered their first point from a free.
Another Sean McLoughlin point eased the Shanes further ahead and Oisin Murphy followed this up with a great long range effort with the Clans replying with their second point of the game. Paul O’Rourke put the Shanes five up with his side’s seventh point with the Clans responding with another pointed free but a late Sean McLoughlin point saw the Shanes lead by five at the break, 0 – 8 to 0 – 3.
Clan na Gael made a blistering start to the second-half and within ten minutes they were back on level terms, scoring five points in a row and they went on to add another goal and two points to put them five ahead before a point from Paul O’Rourke stopped the rot for the Shanes.
However, it proved nothing more than minor respite for his side as the Clans added another two points to lead by six with time almost up. Deep into injury time the Shanes were awarded a penalty, for what no-one knows, but Connaire Mackin stepped up to expertly fire home the spot-kick in what proved to be final the kick of the game.
Senior Ladies
The senior ladies have a game scheduled for next Saturday away to Sarsfields and all girls are asked to be at the club at 5.30pm. Training continues on Tuesday evening at St Paul’s field at 7.00pm
Minor Boys
Our minor boys have a home game on Monday evening against Carrickcruppen and all players are asked to meet at the club at 6.15pm.
Minor Girls
Our minor girls are away to Clann Eireann on Thursday evening and all players are asked to meet at the club at 5.45pm.
U16 Boys
Our U16 boys came up against a very good Clann Eireann side on Thursday evening and they put in a below par performance to come up short with Clann Eireann winning the game.
U16 Girls
Our U16 girls were scheduled to play Armagh Harps on Monday but the game has now been re-arranged for Tuesday 19th May.
U-14 Girls
The U-14 girls played Carrickcruppen in a keenly contested Division 1 League game on Wednesday evening and it was our neighbours who won out following a close game. The Shane’s had strong performers in Caoimhne McKenna, Lia Robb and Orlagh McKenna. Training for U-14 girls continues every Wednesday evening at the field from 6.30pm and it is vital that all girls attend training weekly.
U12 Boys
The U12 boys had their first league outing of the year against Newtownhamilton on Saturday afternoon. In a closely fought affair the Shanes were very lucky to go in at half-time a couple of points up but the second-half saw a much improved performance from the team and the Shanes ran out winners by a few scores. It is hoped to re-arrange our fixture with Corrinshego this week but a date hasn’t been fixed just yet. Training will continue on Wednesday at 6.00pm unless advised otherwise and next Saturday will see the team head to An Riocht for their first tournament of the year with full details being sent out during the week.
U12 Girls
Training for this age group continues every Wednesday evening at the field at 6.30pm and it is vital that all girls attend training.
U10s
Our U10s were in action on Sunday morning against Dromintee. On a very blustery morning, not suited to good football, they played some decent football and there were some excellent performances across the two teams but still plenty to work on over the next few weeks as we build up to the first couple of tournaments of the year. Training continues this Tuesday and Friday at 6.00pm as normal.
U8s
Congratulations to our young players who made their First Communion on Saturday and as a result of there was no game for our U8s this weekend. Training continues this week on Tuesday and Friday at 6.00pm as normal.
U6s
Training for our U6s resumes this Wednesday evening at 6.00pm in Bessbrook Community Centre and all boys and girls at this age group are welcome to attend.
Meabh O’Neills Camogie
The senior camogs recorded a convincing win over Killeavy on Wednesday evening in what was a very tough encounter. There were great displays of skill and talent throughout the team, particularly our younger players. Camogie training continues every Wednesday at the club at 6.00pm and it’s great to see numbers increasing every week and as always all new players and helpers are always welcome.
Breakfast at the Shanes
The club is hosting a Big Breakfast morning next Sunday 17th May from 9.00 – 12.00 and we are encouraging everyone to come along on the morning and tuck into a hearty breakfast and raise some much needed funds for the club at the same time.
Well Done
Well done to Aimee Mackin, Louise Kenny and Moya Feehan and the rest of the Armagh Senior Ladies who won the Division 2 league title on Saturday with a great win over Donegal on a score-line of 4 – 18 to 4 – 6. Special mention also to Aimee who was awarded the Player of the Match also.
Best Wishes
Best wishes to our senior player Shay Carroll who suffered a nasty injury in training recently and we hope to see Shay back in the green jersey soon.
Lotto
Last week’s winning lotto numbers were 7, 8, 11 & 23. There were no jackpot winners and 2 x match three winners. The jackpot now stands at £2800.
Condolences
The club would like to offer its sympathy to family of Peter Lavelle who died at the week-end. Peter was a former of the club and father of former playing members Martin and Harvey.
Articles for Club Notes
If anyone wants an article included in the club notes please provide it to the club PRO on brendanosborne@btinternet.com no later than 4.30pm on a Sunday.
ST MICHAEL’S GFC
Under 8
Our U8 team have been enjoying training for almost 5 weeks now. With turnouts of up to 18 players, it was a pleasure to see on some cold evenings. Tuesday evening saw our first match against an eager Shane O’Neills team. With 16 players on display today, St Michaels started well with good points from Dylan Vallely and Oisin O’Malley. Our girls also showed good promise with Shannon Murphy leading the way. It was great to see the improvement in all players after only one match. Training again on Tuesday evening half 6.
Under 10
St Michaels Under 10 team got their year off to a great start with an away game to Forkhill last Wednesday night. Played in ideal conditions before a large home support the game was played in three ten minute periods. The game itself was very competitive throughout and both teams served up a good style of football with the basic skills of kicking and catching very much to the fore.
The St Michaels defenders on the night marked very closely and made some brilliant interceptions and blocks against a very lively Forkhill attack. Particular mention is given to Shea Gibney, who kicked three points from play. Oisin Hollywood and Turloch Carleton held the defence together with both players performing really well. Conor Rock in midfield had a really good game and kicked two long range points when going forward and also helped out in defence when required.
The attack on the night showed in front for every ball that came into them and tried to play as a team. Shea Davidson was the top scorer on the night with five goals and three points. He was assisted well by Tomas Byrne, Constantine Leanov and Aidan Rock. David Gostautas and Serjejs Leanov shared goalkeeping duties on the night and both equipped themselves well with good saves and intelligent kickouts.
The team put in a good performance for first game of the year and will look forward to this Sunday’s game at home against Carrickcruppin. A special word of appreciation is given to the parents of the children who helped with transport on the night and also to Forkhill who made us very welcome.
The team on the night were David Gostautas, Oisin Hollywood, Serjejs Leanov, Turloch Carleton, Shea Gibney, Conor Rock, Aidan Rock, Constantine Leanov, Tomas Byrne and Shea Davidson. Training continues on Wednesday at 6.15pm.
Under 12
St Michael’s narrowly lost out to Shane O’Neill’s in their second League game on Saturday. Niall O’Malley, Lorcan O’Malley, Oisin Hollywood and Paddy McVerry were excellent at the back and put in strong defensive performances with great tackling. Sean McVerry, Rory Foster, and Dara Swift were very impressive in midfield, and worked tirelessly up and down the pitch.
Up front, Jason Devlin, Joe McClelland and Thomas O’Malley performed very well, and finished with some nice scores. Although we were missing some important players, every player on the St Michael’s team can be proud of their performance. Man of the Match; Lorcan O’Malley. Lorcan had an excellent game at the back showing great anticipation and tackling.
Under 14
Rockas Conor and Aidan took part in simply orchard academy trials this week. Conor marked tightly and kept his man scoreless, Rockas fielded good ball and made strong runs in the middle and Aidan showed well and scored 1-1. Well done to all 3 for representing their club very well.
Under 16
Pearse Woods and Oisin Mullen represented the club in an Armagh under 15 game and played well. Keep up the good work boys.
Cake Sale/Coffee Morning 21st June
There will be a coffee morning & Cake Sale in the new hall on Sunday 21st june after the Blessing of the graves. This was a very popular event last year and we have decided this year to allow people to stay and enjoy a cup of coffee in the hall on the morning. There were some delicious lemon meringues, fifteens and madeira cakes last year, so speculation is already mounting as to what mouthwatering treats will be served up this time around.
NEW Volunteers Needed
The club need help with running events in the hall. From making sandwiches for visiting teams, helping out in the kitchens on matchdays, and cleaning the hall on the morning after fundraising events. These jobs currently get left to the same 2 or 3 people every week. When parents and children from St.Michaels visit opposing teams, there is generally a good level of hospitality offered, and we would like to show that we can club together and show the same if not better hospitality in Newtown. Please think about offering a small amount of time at the upcoming cake sale and future events throughout the year. Contact any member of the committee if you can lend a hand in any way.
No Dog Walkling on Pitches
In recent weeks members of the community have been walking their dogs on the both football pitches. The main field as well as the small pitch is regularly in use for gaelic games by underage children as well as senior players, and should be kept clean. Please remind any Dog owners in the area to refrain from walking Dogs on these pitches.
Senior Team
The senior Team need to have umpires and linesmen available at every senior match. Can we ask supporters, that when our regular umpires and linesmen are unable to make the games, that those who are able to support the team by helping out with this, make themselves available for this job on matchdays. Also Thanks to the ladies for their help with making tea and sandwhiches on match days, it is much appreciated.
St Michael’s v Corrinshego
After requesting this match to be refixed, many weeks ago, Newtown were forced to field a depleted squad to fulfill the fixture. On the day, the game could also have been called off due to dangerous weather conditions, but both sides took to the field in Newtownhamilton with thunderous conditions prevailing, to serve up a competitive match. The team came very close to winning the game and gave a very good account of the club on the day, losing narrowly to the visitors.
St. Michael’s v Tullysaran
On a miserable Friday night Newtown travelled to Tullysaran in search of their second win of the season. The game started with two Tullysaran points but Newtown responded well with two fine points from play by Brian Caherty and Benny Davidson to bring the sides level. Newtown showed great desire to win the breaking ball and dominated the middle sector, tagging on points from K Carragher and S Rock.
Chris Nugent was strong in defence and made some important tackles, and Newtown were able to tag on another couple of frees from S Rock. The first half ended with Newtown deservedly going in 3 points ahead on a scoreline of 0-7 to 0-4. Tullysaran started the second half strongest with four points on the trot, but Newtown rallied with a great team effort which started with Aidan Quinn collecting the ball in Newtowns defense and after several phases of play Kevin O’Brien slotted the ball over the bar to level matters.
After a missed free to go a point ahead, Newtown were sucker-punched with a soft goal, to put Tullysaran in the driving seat. This seemed to dishearten Newtown and they only managed one more point in the second half while Tullysaran were able to push on and win the game comfortably in the end.
St Michaels v Derrynoose
We hosted Derrynoose on Sunday morning in a prelude to our championship meeting later in the summer. Derrynoose playing with a gael force wind started the game with a flourish, scoring 1-1 in the opening 5 minutes. Newtown got two points on the board through K Obrien and B Davidson but failed to register for the rest of the first half.
The breaking ball seemed to stick to the Derrynoose players and they opened up a commanding halftime lead of 1-11 to 0-2. The second half was a slow scrappy affair, and to their credit Newtown kept battling and actually outscored their oponents by 2 points, but never got that bit of luck needed to mount a serious comeback.
The game finished 1-14 to 0-7 in favour of the visitors. To lose to any team at home in Newtown by 10 points will be hard for the team take, they have two weeks off now until the next match and hopefully all members of the panel will put the shoulder to the wheel for the remainder of the season.
Deepest Sympathies
The club would like to extend their deepest sympathies to the family of the late Peter Lavelle (RIP) who supported the club well down through the years. Ar dheis De go raibh a anam.
HIGHMOSS SARSFIELDS GFC
TMET Armagh Senior Championship first round Sarsfields GFC vs Pearse Ógs
Friday 8th May 2014
Final score Sarsfields 4-4 Pearse Ógs 0-21
Friday night saw Sarsfields’ Championship match against Pearse Ógs, who they met also in the League one week previous. Our Seniors could not have had a more dramatic beginning as Michael Stevenson slipped past the goalkeeper and scored a goal for Sarsfields in the opening minute.
Colin Stevenson soon responded again with another goal chance, only to be stopped by Malachy Trainor on the end line. Yet with their spirits high, Sarsfields’ Thomas McAlinden added another goal to give the Hoops men an early start.
Marc Cullen scored his first point of the evening for Pearse Ógs, which would become his first of ten points in the match, indeed he replied soon with another point from a free. Paul Duffy would have found the net only to hit the post soon after and Thomas McAlinden returned with a point from a tight angle, though this would be Sarsfields’ last score until the final minutes of the first half.
Pearse Ógs began a nine point scoring dominance with Marc Cullen and Ronan Clarke scoring five points including two frees and Chris Rafferty and Ros Clarke making up the difference. Eamon McGeown scored a point for the High Moss men before the half time whistle to end the first half with score Sarsfields 2-2 Pearse Ógs 0-10. Not a bad thirty minutes by anyone’s standard.
The second half opened with Thomas McAlinden starting strong for the Hoops with a goal and a point from play with help from Paul McGeown before Marc Cullen returned with a point high of the right boot. Darren McAvoy came to Sarsfields’ aid pushing a shot on target towards the cross bar.
Four more points from forward line Marc and Ronan kept the Ógs comfortably ahead before yet another goal from Thomas McAlinden made the sides level again with what would add up to be Sarsfields’ fourth goal of the game.
After another Pearse Ógs point, Sean Hughes surged ahead and shot for goal, instead rattling the cross bar yet again for another exciting moment in the second half. Ronan Clarke found a late second breath scoring another two points and Sarsfields’ Johnny Reynolds scored a final 14 yard free. In all, an exciting Championship match with Pearse Ógs the stronger side, ending Sarsfields 4-4 Pearse Ógs 0-21. Sarsfields’ next match is this Sunday 17th May at home to St Paul’s at 2pm.
Upcoming Event
BIG BREAKFAST FUNDRAISER – Sunday 21 June – Further details available from all team managers and committee members
This week’s football results Sunday 3 May – Under 14 boys lost in final of Eire Óg 7-a-side tournament Monday 4 May – Minor boys – Sarsfields 4-9 Wolfe Tones 1-7 Tuesday 5 May – Under 14 boys – Sarsfields beat Maghery Thursday 7 May- Under 16 boys – Sarsfields 10-11 St Johns 7-15 Friday 08 May – Senior Men – Sarsfields 4-4 Pearse Óg 0-21 Sunday 10 May – Under 10 boys played Tir na nÓg in the Go Games Sunday 10 May – Under 8’s played St John’s in Go Games This week’s lotto numbers 10, 13, 19, 24 – 6 winners matching 3 numbers – Bernadette Stevenson ,Theresa Walsh, Eamon McGeown, Margaret McAlinden, Sorcha McComiskey, Sam Gowdy – Next week’s jackpot £850
This week’s training times 1. Tuesday – 7.30pm – Senior Men 2. Wednesday – 6pm to 7pm – Primary 1,2,3,4,5 and 6 boys and girls 3. Thursday 6pm to 7pm – Under 12 boys and girls.
This week’s fixtures 1.Monday – Minor boys versus St Peters – Throw in 7.15 pm in St Peters 2. Monday – Under 16 girls Versus Granemore – Throw in 7pmin Sarsfields 3. Tuesday – Under 14 boys versus Corrinshego – Throw in7.15 pm in Corrinshego 4. Saturday 16 May – Under 8’s versus Eire Óg – Throw in11am in Sarsfields 5. Saturday 16 May – Under 12’s versus St Johns in Sarsfields 6. Saturday 16 May – Senior Ladies versus Shane O’Neill’s – Throw in 6.45pm in Sarsfields 7. Sunday 17 May – Under 10’s versus Wolfe Tones – Throw in11am at Wolfe Tones 8. Sunday 17 May – Senior Men versus St Pauls – Throw in2pm at Sarsfields The club would like to thank all those Club Sarsfields members and ordinary club members whose contributions have enabled works to date to be completed. Any member who would like to join Club Sarsfields can they please contact any committee member or e-mail francis.reynolds1@hotmail,com for further details
SARSFIELDS COMMUNITY HALL EVENTS
MOTHER & TODDLER GROUP
Every Thursday
9.30AM to 11.30AM
DIAMOND RIO JUNIOR CLASS
Every Saturday
10 AM – 12.00PM Cost £2.00
SENIOR CITIZENS GROUP
Every Wednesday 11AM to 2.00PM
DIAMOND RIO DANCE CLASS
Every Tuesday 8.00 to 9.00PM Cost £3.00
Cúchulainn CLG, An Mullach Bán
MULLAGHBAWN vs AN PORT MOR
Keady was the setting for Mullaghbawn’s first foray into championship action in 2015. Mullaghbawn opened proceedings with a fine point before An Port Mor hit back with two of their own. A fifty levelled the score again.
The game opened up in the second quarter and our boys were impressive in front of goal, registering a further seven points, all of which were from play, in comparison to the two points that our opponents landed.
Half time score; Mullaghbawn 0.09 An Port Mor 0.04. Black water town hit the first two points of the second period before Mullaghbawn hit back with a superb team score to put four between them again. Unfortunately both the conditions and Mullaghbawn’s grip on the game deteriorated from here in.
The wind and rain along with the intense pressure from An Port Mor made it very difficult for our boys to get out of their own half and over the next ten minutes our opponents had levelled the game. Mullaghbawn did edge in front with five minutes to play, but it was An Port Mor who were to have the last say with an equaliser accompanied with a further two points to leave them two up at finish. Final score; Mullaghbawn 0.11 An Port Mor 0.13.
Mullaghbawn will now wait on the draw for the first round of the Qualifiers. A return to league action will see Mullaghbawn take on Collegeland at home next Sunday @2pm. The Reserves are home to Derrynoose on Wednesday evening.
CHARLIE GRANT CUP
We have reached the final of the 2015 Charlie Grant Cup, which will take place next Sunday May 17th @6.30pm in Páirc Cúchulainn, An Mullach Bán. Naoimh Moninna Killeavy and Crossmaglen Rangers will contest the showpiece and there are hopes for another big turnout this year and remember all proceeds are in aid of Southern Area Hospice, so please lend as much support as you can.
LADIES FOOTBALL
Senior Ladies travel to Lissummon next Monday, April 18th for their latest league fixture.
CAMOGIE
Senior Camogs take on Derrymacash (away) on Wednesday night @7.30pm in the league. The girls lost out by 2 points to Derrynoose on Wednesday past; 3.02 –v- 1.06.
MINOR FOOTBALL
Mullaghbawn were away to Clann Éireann in their fourth game of the league on Monday night. It was Clann Éireann who started the brighter, scoring a goal and five points within the opening five minutes. Midway through the first half Mullaghbawn registered their first score which came as result of a well worked move. Clann Éireann swiftly responded with their second goal of the game, giving them a ten point lead with ten minutes remaining in the first half.
Both teams then exchanged scores before Clann Éireann hit four points in a row to leave the halftime score 2-10 to 0-5 in favour of the home side. Similar to the first half, it was Clann Éireann who got off to the better start. They scored two goals and three points within the opening ten minutes of the second half, with Mullaghbawn scoring three points from play in this period.
To our lads credit, they produced a much improved performance in the last quarter, scoring a goal and six points without reply. This late rally came too late, however, and it was the home side who ran out winners by ten points. The final score: Clann Éireann 4-13 – Mullaghbawn 1-12. Next up for the minors is a home game against Pearse Óg next Monday night.
UNDER 14 CHAMPIONSHIP
U14s take on Brian Borus on Tuesday night @7.15pm in Mullaghbawn in the first round of the championship. The very best of luck to team and management ahead of the game!
UNDERAGE FIXTURES
U18s home to Pearse Óg @7.15pm tonight, Monday. U16s (no fixture). U14s (championship – see above). U12s away to Dromintee on Saturday. U10s home to Cullyhanna on Sunday. Please confirm exact times and if games are still going ahead with players or management before attending, as often these are subject to change.
CLUB LOTTO
The club lotto is almost at the £4K mark! Make sure you are in with a chance of winning by purchasing a ticket from any of the regular sellers! It’s the simplest way to support your local GAA club.
UNDER 12
Under 12 had their second match against Culloville at the weekend. All players were given a run out but Culloville edged the game in the closing minutes with a few late goals. Well done to both teams.
ST MARY’S PS FUNDRIASER
Country star Jim Devine will play Silverbridge Resource Centre on Friday June 19th with all proceeds going towards St Mary’s PS ICT Fund. Admission is £12.50 and for more information phone 02830888351. Jim will be preceded by Elite Country Radio DJ Stephen Doherty from 9pm.
ST PATRICK’S CULLYHANNA GFC
Senior championship: St. Patrick’s 2-12 St Paul’s 0-8
In the end Cullyhanna were comfortable enough winners in this senior championship game played at Abbey Park on Sunday. It must however be said that it was far from a vintage performance in a game played in difficult conditions with a strong wind and later in the game persistent rain. Even allowing for the conditions some of the St. Pat’s shooting was dismal in the extreme with 16 wides over the hour, an unfortunate feature of their recent games.
Playing with the strong wind St Paul’s, as might be expected, made the early running with 3 points registered in the opening 10 minutes. Aidan Nugent opened the Cullyhanna account in the 12th minute but the Lurgan side added a pointed free at the end of the first quarter to restore their 3 point advantage. This was wiped out 5 minutes later when Shea Hoey pounced on a defensive mistake to fire to the net to level the sides. Encouraged by this St. Pat’s added 3 points to leave the half-time score at 1-4 to 0-4 in their favour.
Playing with the advantage of the wind in the second-half St. Patrick’s had early points from Tony Donnelly and Aidan Nugent to stretch their advantage. But a tendency early in the half to play the ball short which ignored the wind advantage they had didn’t help their scoring rate as the opposition got a lot of bodies behind the ball.
As the half progressed more early balls were played in and this tactic improved the scoring rate but at no stage did they look like totally running away the game so that a major score at the other end would have brought the Pauls back into it. With only 6 minutes to go Cullyhanna were 7 to the good when another defensive mistake allowed Robbie Tasker in for an opportunistic goal which really settled the outcome for definite.
In championship football the result is everything and St. Pat’s will be happy enough to have kept their foot in the front door when the championship resumes later in the year. While the team as a whole never really clicked into top gear or produced the football they are capable of there were some good individual showings.
In a defence that generally looked comfortable enough Paudie McCreesh and Gary McCooey got through a lot of work. The mid-field just about shaded matters while up front senior debutant Shea Hoey top scored with 1-3 from play and was well supported by Tony Donnelly and Aidan Nugent.
Team: Deaglan McArdle, Kieran McCooey, Stephen Reel, Eoin McArdle, Sean Connell (0-1), Paudie McCreesh (0-1), Gary McCooey, Malachy Mackin, Barry McConville, Gareth Mackin, Aidan Nugent (0-4), Kieran Hoey (0-1), Robbie Tasker (1-0), Tony Donnelly (0-2), Shea Hoey (1-3).
Junior Championship
The very best of luck to our Seconds team in their championship encounter against Ballyhegan in the Athletic Grounds at 6pm this coming Saturday evening.
Under 10s
The under 10s play Forkhill at home this Wednesday evening. Throw in 7 15pm. All players to be at Cullyhanna club for 6 30pm.
ARMAGH HARPS WEEKLY GFC
ABBEY LOTTO –This week’s lucky numbers are 1, 20, 26 and 28 One matched three numbers and wins £50. Next’s week jackpot is £1,300.
Lotto tickets can be purchased from all Committee Members, regular Lotto sellers, the Social Club and are available at underage training sessions.
Please note that the Lotto is now being drawn on a Monday night. Details of winning numbers will continue to be published via the Club notes, the parish bulletin and on Facebook and Twitter.
FÉILE FUNDRAISER’S- To assist offset costs Harps U14 girls Féile team are organising various fundraisers over the coming weeks.
Féile Clothes Collection-Please put unwanted clothes/shoes/curtains/bedding (NO DUVETS) in a bag and leave in Abbey Park any evening between now and 22 May. If you require your bag(s) collected please contact Shauna on 07743429988 to arrange pick up.
Féile Road Bowls- This Saturday on the Knappagh Road beginning at 11am there will be four “scores” in support of the girls Féile team. Among the throwers is former Harps and Armagh star Paedar Toal, Harps B player “Taff” Toal and members Joe McVeigh and Mark McParland. Get out to the Knappagh Road on Saturday and show your support!
Féile Poker- A special Poker Classic will be held in the Social Club on Sunday 31 May, commencing 6pm in aid of the girls Féile team.
Féile Family Zumba- In Abbey Park on Wednesday 3 June. A superb hour’s exercise open to all. Only £5 adults and £3 kids.
SOCIAL CLUB- Exciting new groups will continue to entertain over the coming months. Make the Harps Social Club your regular weekend haunt!!!!!
Indeed, come along and enjoy the craic in the Social Club at any time. Why not just pop in for a relaxing drink any night, listen to the jukebox, watch the footie, play pool or snooker? BT Openzone available in the Club.
Need a venue for a party? The Club, which proudly displays the 5* rating for hygiene from Armagh Council Environmental Health, is now available for private parties and functions-free!!
Book your birthday or special occasion party now!! Contact Brian in the Social Club on 02837523281 regarding bookings.
FANCY A PINT AND A PUNT? There’s no better place to be than the Social Club. Each Saturday the “£10 Special”, two pints and a £5 bet during football and racing!
RMC POKER- The Social Club is hosting this weekly poker night each Friday night. First hand dealt at 9pm!
PART TIME OR CASUAL WORK- Are you interested in part time or casual bar work? If so contact Brian on 028375232821. Experience desirable but not essential.
LOYALTY CARD SCHEME -The “Loyalty Card Scheme” is being extensively used by members who are reaping the benefits through the reduced costs in the Social Club. Loyalty Cards are available to all members and can be collected from the Social Club. Collect your card now!!
ZUMBA- Each Wedneday night in the Social Club- 7.30-8.30pm.
MEMBERSHIP- The season has now commenced. All those intending to represent the Club in 2015 (at all levels) must be registered as a member of the Association. Membership is now overdue- please ensure you and your family are registered!
Membership options are-
Full/Football- £25
10 Year Full/Football- £200
Student- £15
Youth (under 18) – £10
Family (2 adults and all under 18’s in the family) – £50
Honorary/Senior (OAP) – no fee
Additionally the Club offers a Social Club only membership at only £15.
Note that members that can also avail of the Cairde Na Claírsigh Scheme detailed below.
Registration forms available from Registrar Miriam Clarke and all coaches and Committee members.
ULSTER CHAMPIONSHIP TICKETS- Tickets are now on sale for the opening round games of both football and hurling fixtures. Purchase early and you could save up to 20%!!!! For complete ticketing information visit www.ulstergaa.ie
ARMAGH OPEN DAY- Armagh GAA will host their annual Open Day on Saturday 16 May at 12.30pm in the Athletic Grounds. Supporters are invited to come along to meet the players, tour the stadium and to take part in a number of games and competitions, as well as pick up a GAA goody bag.
CHILD PROTECTION/HEALTH & SAFETY- In conforming to health and safety and child protection requirements only designated approved Club coaches with appropriate AccessNI certification will be permitted access to the playing/training areas during the forthcoming season. (Under 6’s may be accompanied by parents/guardians)
Parents/guardians are welcome to watch matches/training from the designated viewing areas.
SENIOR CHAMPIONSHIP- The boys were victorious in the tricky first round encounter on Saturday night against Wolfe Tones. Harps were on top in the first half and deservedly went in 1-07 to 0-4 in front, Shea Grimley with the goal. However Tones hit two quick goals early in the second half to level matters. Harps showed their mettle to take a two point lead and when Tones levelled again a spirited Harps raised their game to put four between them. Final score Harps 1-15, Tones 2-08. Captain Nippy continued with his rich vein of scoring hitting 0-9.
A tricky tie awaits in Round 2 as Harps were drawn against St Pat’s, cullyhanna.
The Qualifer Round 1 and Round 2 is scheduled to will take place 14, 15 16, 21, 22 and 23 August. The Round 2 Qualifer will be played between 28-30 August, the quarter finals 11,12, 13 ,18 &19 September, the semis 25, 26,27 September with the final set for 11 October.
SENIOR FOOTBALL LEAGUE 2015-
Its back to the League this week- Cross away.
Round: 5 Sun 17 May
Crossmaglen V Armagh Harps(2pm)- Gary Smyth, ref.
Round: 6 Sun 24 May
Armagh Harps V Granemore
Round: 7 Sun 31 May
Armagh Harps V St Paul’s
Round: 8 Sun 7 June
Armagh Harps V Pearse Óg
Re fixtures: Fri 12 June
Round: 9 Sun 21 June
Ballymacnab V Armagh Harps
Round: 10 Sun 28 June
Forkhill V Armagh Harps
Round: 11 Sun 5 July
Tir na nÓg V Armagh Harps
Round: 12 Sun 26 July
Maghery V Armagh Harps
Round: 13 Fri 31 July
Armagh Harps V Annaghmore
Round: 14 Sun 9 Aug
Sarsfields V Armagh Harps
Round: 15 Sat 5 Sept
Killeavy V Armagh Harps
SENIOR RESERVE LEAGUE- Harps V Cruppen game last week postponed. This Wednesday the boys are away to Silverbridge, 7.15 throw-in.
Fixtures-
Rd 6 Wed 20 May Harps v Ballymacnab Rd 7 Wed 27 May Harps v Grange
Championship Wednesday 3 June- Granemore away Rd 8 Wed 10 June Derrynoose v Harps
Rd 9 Wed 17 June Harps v Granemore Rd 10 Wed 1 July Harps bye Rd 11 Wed 29 July Madden v Harps
League Final Wed 5 August Winner South v Winner North
SENIOR RESERVE CHAMPIONSHIP- Harps will open with a quarter final fixture away to Granemore on Wednesday 3 June. The winners will meet Carrickcruppen in the semi at a neutral venue on Wednesday 24 June! The final is scheduled for Tuesday 21 or Wednesday 22 July.
UNDER 21 CHAMPIONSHIP- Harps will compete in the Senior U21 Championship and have been drawn in Group A. Fixtures are away to Killeavy, Sunday 18 October ( 2pm), home to Grange on Sunday 25 October (2pm) and finally away to Cross at 2pm on Sunday 8 November.
The winners of the Group play the winners of Group B in the final on Sunday 22 November.
MINOR BOYS- Last night’s scheduled away game against Killeavy was postponed due to exam commitments. All the best boys with your studies!
Training continues on Friday’s at 6pm on the JD Pitch.
Fixtures as follows-
Rd 6-8 June- Harps V Cross
Rd 7- 15 June- Silverbridge V Harps
Rd 8- 22 June- BYE
Rd 9- 29 June- Harps V Clann Eireann
The boys will meet Clann Eireann in the Championship at Quarter Final stage.
BOYS UNDER 16’s –Training on Thursday on the JD pitch from 7.30-8.30pm. An improved performance last week. An exam break has now started – best of luck with the studies!
Rd 6- 11 June- Harps V Shane O’Neills
Rd 7- 18 June- Cross V Harps
Rd 8- 2 July- Harps V Silverbridge
Rd 9- 9 July – Clann Eireann V Harps
Harps will meet our city rivals in the first round of the Championship.
BOYS UNDER 14’s- Training twice a week- Tuesday’s from 6-7pm and Thursday’s from 6.30- 7.30pm (on the JD. Remember gum shield, water bottle and £1.
Harps will meet the winners of Sliverbridge/Crossmaglen in the semi-final of the Championship.
The boys got back to winning ways with a nine point margin over Clanns last week.
Rd 5- 19 May- Harps V St Peters
BOYS UNDER12 &1/2’s- The boys will meet Carrickmore in a challenge in Abbey Park tonight (throw-in 6pm). Remember gum shield and £1.
Remaining fixtures are-
Round 3- 16 May Harps V Madden
Round 4- 23 May Grange V Harps
30 May- Newry Mitchells Tournament
Round 5- 3 June (Wednesday) Harps v Pearse Og- 6.30pm
Round 6- 6 June Harps V Keady
Round 7- 13 June BYE
Round 8- 20 June Madden V Harps
Round 9- 27 June Harps V Grange
Round 10- 4 July Pearse Og V Harps
Note this is an under 121/2, 12 aside League!!! Players eligible to play in this competition must be over the age of 9 and up to Year 8 (first year).
BOYS UNDER 10’s- Sessions in Abbey Park each Wednesday at 7pm and from 10.30-11.30am each Sunday (when not competing). Remember gum shield, water bottle and £1. The boys have their first League game on Sunday morning at 11am away to Grange. Good luck!
BOYS & GIRLS UNDER 8’s- Sessions in Abbey Park from10.30-11.30am, each Sunday. Remember gum shield, water bottle and £1.Great performance in their first League game last Saturday. Next game home to Granemore on Saturday.
NURSERY (UNDER 6’s) –Sessions in Abbey Park from 10.30-11.30 am, each Sunday.
SENIOR LADIES- Training continues Monday nights at 7pm and Saturday nights at 6.30pm on the JD pitch.
The girls received a bye in the first round of the Senior Championship where they now play local rivals the Grange at the semi-final stage. Next League game at home to Ballyhegan 7pm, 15 May.
MINOR GIRLS –The girls have a home game against Crossmaglen on Friday 22 May.
Training continues Monday nights at 7pm in Abbey Park, bring gum shields, water bottles & £1. Membership is now overdue!
GIRLS UNDER 16 –Training takes place on Sunday mornings at 11.30am in Abbey Park. Bring gum shields, water bottles & £1. Membership is now overdue! Next league game Tuesday 19 May at home to Shane O’Neills at 7pm.
GIRLS UNDER 14- Training each Monday night on the JD pitch from 6-7pm and Thursday from 5.30pm. The girls meet Carrickcruppen on Thursday 14 May at home and are away to Shane O’Neill’s on Sunday 24 May.
GIRLS UNDER 12’s- The girls are at home to Clan na Gael on Wednesday and Carrickcruppen on Sunday. Training continues Wednesday nights at 6pm on the JD Pitch. Don’t forget gum shields, water bottles & £1.
CLUB CHAMIONSHIP SEASON TICKET- Armagh County Board are offering Club Championship Season Tickets. The tickets, cost £60, give you access to all Club Championship games ( Junior , Intermediate and Senior, including back door games) in 2015 in both Hurling and Football!! Ticket enquires to the County office on 02837527278 or e-mail administrator.armagh@gaa.ie
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 2015-
Chair- Paul Gribben
Vice Chair- Paul Quinn
Secretary- Art McGinn
Registrar- Miriam Clarke
Treasurer- Martin Gill
Committee Members-
Frankie McKenna
Aidan Breen
Conor Coulter
Neil McArdle
Barry Moore
John Rath
Paul McKay
Paula Enright
Brenda Gill
John Vernon
Aidan O’Kane
Colm O’Hare
The Club is grateful to these volunteers for their commitment and wishes them well in the tasks ahead.
CAIRDE NA CLAIRSIGH – Is Armagh Harps GFC important to you?
Do you believe our young people need help and support?
Do you value what Armagh Harps and the GAA provide?
Is what we’re about attractive to you?
If you can answer “Yes” to any of these questions then Cairde Na Clairsigh is for you.
Members of Cairde Na Clairsigh agree to contribute at least £10 per month to help make Armagh Harps better for our young people. In return we’ll play our part to achieve a better Armagh Harps. We think that’s a very good deal for everyone!
To join download the Standing Order mandate from the Club website (www.armaghharps.com), Facebook or Twitter, and return to any Committee Member or to the Social Club (address above).
New “Cairde” members are always welcome. Be part of a unique group and wear the special “Cairde” coats. Note that “Cairde” members are full Harps and GAA members.
ABBEY PARK USAGE- For information or access please contact Seamus McCafferty.
CLOTHING BANK- Please donate all unwanted women’s, men’s and children’s clothing, shoes and boots, handbags, belts, curtains, bedding, blankets and towels to the clothing bank in Abbey Park. All donations will help support Club funds.
HARPS GIFT VOUCHERS- Gift vouchers are available from the Social Club and are refundable against Harps merchandise and can be used towards spend in the Social Club or towards membership etc. Makes the perfect birthday present!!!
YOUTUBE CHANNEL- Visit Armagh Harps on YouTube www.youtube.com/user/armaghharpsgfc
If you have any videos featuring any Club activity, new or old, please e-mail them to armaghharps@btconnect.com for uploading to the site.
NEWS- Please feel free to forward news, features, events, match reports, photos etc to armaghharps@btconnect.com for consideration for inclusion in the various social media platforms.
MADDEN RAPAREES GFC
U-12’s Our U12 team got their league of to a great start this week winning away to Pearse Ogs on Wednesday followed by a home win on Saturday against Keady. Wednesday night was a cagey affair but Madden’s greater fire power and discipline in defence saw them run out deserving winners by 6 points. Saturday was a different story altogether as we welcomed a very good Keady team to Madden.
There was nothing separating the teams at half time but Madden had wasted a few good chances to take the lead. The second half was just as close but a goal for Keady saw them lead by two points as full time approached.
Madden players defended stoicly and a great break from defence ended with Jack Murphy hitting the back of the Keady net to lead by the minimum one minute in to injury time, there was just time to tag on another to leave it Madden by two at the final whistle. All credit to the players for digging out the result, next up is Harps on Saturday U-14’s
Our U-14 team under the guidance of Ricky Greene, Peadar Cox and Brendan O’Hagan travelled to South Armagh last Tuesday where they encountered a strong Silverbridge side. The lads went down on the night however the lads kept fighting right to the death, including a great second half display in which the management were thrilled with.
They unfortunately conceded three goals inside three minutes which proved to be the undoing of the game. Spirited displays from Ryan Carmicheal and Lorcan Hughes did not go unnoticed, however Maddens Man of the Match on this occasion was awarded to Christopher McParland for his tireless effort throughout the game. U-16’s
Our U-16 team under the guidance of Michael Grimley and Johnny Moore made the short trip up to local rivals Middletown on Thursday evening past for what turned out to be an extremely entertaining game between the two sides. Arguably the Madden lads were lucky to come away with the draw, a great second half performance from the lads coupled by some inspirational decisions on the line by the management duo meant that the lads did not come away empty handed.
This result would not have been possible only for two excellent individual displays from Conor Greene and Conor Mone. The team now face a tough trip away to Eire Og in the Championship this Thursday evening with all support greatly appreciated. Reserve
Our reserve team travelled out the Moy to face a Grange side who had the same record as Madden entering the game. Madden who were missing a number of players who were out of the country on a former players stag do.
This forced the management to field a rather inexperienced team at this level with several players still playing underage football. The lads who were playing with a strong breeze in the first half got off to a great start racing into an early lead with points from Mark Gray, Neil McGuinness and Mark McShane. The hosts fought back and some hard work from our inside forward Patrick Vallely resulted in another few scores before the half to give the Raparees the lead at the interval.
The lads came out in the second half and tried to continue where they left off. The game turned out to be the ultimate game of two halves with the strong wind playing its part in the outcome of the match. Two high balls in on top of the square were not dealt with by the Madden full back line and ultimately this was the undoing of the game.
Coming out of defence as the players were getting tired from carrying the ball into the strong breeze, passes were missed and the Grange punished the Madden lads. A final flurry from the madden lads ensured the scoreboard looked respectable with the lads going down eventually by four points. They now have a week off before their Championship fixture against Clan na nGael in a few weeks time. Senior Intermediate Championship
Our Senior team travelled to Fr. Rafferty Park in Portadown for their maiden championship match of the season. Some felt that the time of the year was too early for a fixture of this magnitude and that it would not have the feel of a real championship match, however anyone who was in attendance and witnessed the last ten minutes would beg to differ.
Madden began the game on the back foot conceding a goal within the first few minutes of the game following some miscommunication at the back and a pass across the goal that was intercepted and finished low to the right hand corner past our goalkeeper. The lads responded superbly with a free kick from the Madden captain Ciaran Rafferty.
Further points from Niall Grimley and an Aron McKenna from a tight angle against a strong breeze ensured the game was level once more. A cynical foul by one of the Clann Eireann defenders resulted in the first black card of the game being distributed by referee Paudi Hughes.
Liam Grimley diligently scored the resultant free kick to give the Raparees the lead for the first time in the game. Madden scored a further point from Niall Grimley before the men from Lurgan responded with a free to leave the slenderest of margins between the two sides as we entered the second quarter.
A second black card for Clann Eireann was issued following some dangerous play this time from one of their forwards. The Raparees who were beginning to get a foothold around the middle of the park responded with a lovely point that was started and finished by Niall Smith and included a lovely bit of link up play with his cousin Caolan Vallely.
A final free kick from Ciaran Rafferty where he judged the wind to perfection striking the ball with the outside of his boot was to be Maddens last score of the half, their opponents on the other hand tagged on three points in a row including a free kick in between two from play to leave honours even at the break. Half time score Madden Raparees 0-07 Clann Eireann 1-04.
The wind had slightly changed for the second half beginning to swirl around the field now and was not necessarily favouring either of the teams. Madden took the lad once more through another fine score from Aron McKenna following great vision and a superb pass from Coaloan Vallely.
The narrow advantage was to be short lived as Clann Eireann scored two points in succession including one from their former county player Ryan Henderson to give them the lead for the second time in the contest. Madden who were now dominating the midfield battle with all three of the Grimley brothers giving a masterclass in the art of fielding a ball.
A ball was fed into the full forward line and was broke, following a scramble inside the big box the ball fell to the feet of Ryan Grimley who provided the deftest of touches along the ground to steer the ball into the path of his young cousin Conor who calmly slotted the ball past the Clann Eireann goalkeeper.
This gave the men in red and black a two point lead as we approached the final quarter of the match. Clann Eireann entered a period of dominance however could find little reward kicking a series of wide balls. Their only consolation was a single point from play to again leave the narrowest of margins between the teams.
Further individual scores from the Grimley cousins Niall and Conor ensured thee was some breathing space between the two sides. However Clann Eireann were not ready to lie down and be tramped over they responded with a point from play. Almost immediately they went back down the field and had the goal at their mercy only for some brave defending by Ciaran Monaghan who was awarded a black card for his efforts.
Clann Eireann scored the free in front of the goals to leave a single point between the sides again. A final point from our opponents tied the game once more, Madden had their chances to get back in front after a delightful ball through to Caolan Vallely however he failed to get the ball under control as it trickled over the end line.
Another fine individual score by Conor Grimley from distance ensured the Raparees took all the spoils and progress to the next round o the intermediate championship with their opponents unknown at present. Final score Madden Raparees 1-11 Clann Eireann 1-10.
The management trio of Ronan Gallagher, Brendan Vallely and Jamie Sheridan will no doubt be delighted with the second half performance and the spirit and hunger in which the lads showed to see out the final ten minutes of this game. The lads will now turn their attention back to the Intermediate League where they entertain a Silverbridge side at home in Raparee park this coming Sunday at 2pm. Fixtures
Tuesday: U14’s No Fixture
Wednesday: B’s No Fixture
Thursday: U16’s CHAMPIONSHIP Away to Eire Og
Saturday: U12’s Away to Armagh Harps
Saturday: U8’s At home to An Port Mor
Sunday: U10’s At home to Derrynoose
Sunday: Seniors At home to Silverbridge
Monday: Minors At home to St Enda’s
Weekly Lotto
This weeks winning numbers were 4, 5, 19 and 24. Unfortunately there was no winner of the jackpot, there was however one winners of £10 in the form of Hugh Curry (Kilcreevy). Next weeks jackpot is £2,100.00.
Social Club
There will be music provided in the Social Club this Saturday night by Stephen McSorley. Armagh Sports Awards
The club would like to wish two of our members the very best of luck when they attend the prestigious Linwood’s Armagh Sports Forum Awards on Wednesday evening. BJ Sheridan has been nominated for Coach of the year following his exploits with our Senior Camogie Team last year on securing the clubs first senior championship in over 30 years, not content with just the one championship title for the year BJ added a second to his collection with our amalgamated U-21 team where they on the Armagh Intermediate Championship after a hard fought battle with St Peters.
Kelly Mallon has been nominated for Sports Woman of the year following her equally successful season with Armagh Ladies where she won the Division 3 National Football League title followed by an Ulster Senior Title. Indecently Kelly was also captain of BJ’s victorious Camogie team and capped off a marvellous sporting year when she was crowned Senior Ladies Road Bowls Champion. Good luck to you both from all at Madden Raparees G.F.C.