CAWLEY CUP FINAL Castlebar are Connacht Cawley Cup champions after enthralling final with Ballina
Castlebar 30 Ballina14
Castlebar and Ballina travelled to Crowley Park in Galway, home of Galwegians RFC who sponsored the competition, to play one another in the final of the Cawley Cup. The scene was set with a breeze coming in off the bay and temperatures almost touching 20 degrees celcius at times. A large contingent travelled from both towns to lend support to their local teams. The game was played in an excellent spirit with fine displays from both teams. The one sided result does not properly indicate the intensity and closeness of the game for long periods. Castlebar had a huge team performance with fine individual displays from Daire Mulgrew, Enda Murphy, Alex Goor, Paul Coady, Davy Staunton, Tadhg Kirby and Richie Feeney. Ballina were also depending on a top class team effort but nonetheless had fine individual displays from Andrew Moynihan, Michael Murphy, Aiden McNulty and Kieran Melvin.
Ballina started the game with the help of the lively sea breeze and used it well to place kicks behind the Castlebar defence and into touch on several occasions. From the kickoff Castlebar put the Ballina lads under pressure in their own 22. Several phases passed but Castlebar failed to reap any reward from a disciplined Ballina defence. Ballina broke upfield and were awarded a penalty for and infringement in the loose which Andy Moynihan converted from near the 22 metre line. This seemed to spur the Castlebar lads on as they worked their way upfield and into the danger zone where they were awarded a scrum for a Ballina knock on. The ball was moved quickly from the base of the scrum by Christy Cusack to Paul Coady who showed real class in looped movement with Mark Staunton and Tadhg Kirby to go over under the posts for the opening try of the game. Richie Feeney was on hand to convert. Castlebar failed to hold on in the Ballina half and slowly conceded ground until Ballina were again in a scoring position . Again an infringement gave them a penalty and again Andy Moynihan was on hand to convert and leave the minimum between the teams. This was perhaps Ballina’s best period of the game as they kept Castlebar on the defensive for several minutes. Ballina had great performances during this period from Danny Carrabine, Conor Forde, Aiden McNulty, David Newman and Michael Clarke. The pressure paid off when on the stroke of half time Andy Moynihan converted hid third penalty to give Ballina a 9 – 7 lead at the break.
The second half saw Castlebar having the benefit of the breeze but at this stage the heat of the day was rising to its height and was affecting everyone on the pitch. Water bottles were regularly brought on as the Trojan efforts of both sides took their toll. Ballina attacked from the kick off and must have thought they were going over in the corner when Enda Murphy intercepted a Ballina ball and stormed out of the corner. As he was being tackled he fed the ball to Fintan Casey who took off along the touch line. When he could go no further he offloaded to Richie Feeney who stretched his long legs making great ground before feeding Davy Staunton who was now on his shoulder. Davy continued up towards the 22 where he found Tadhg Kirby in support. Tadhg returned the pass to Davy who finished the move evading a tackle attempt to touch down near the upright for a classic team try. Richie Feeney was again on hand to convert. Injuries brought the first replacements of the day when Brian Flannery replaced Alex Goor for Castlebar and Paul Neary replaced Aiden McNulty for Ballina. Ballina were not finished yet and subjected Castlebar to a sustained period of pressure trying both forward and backs movwements to break down the Castlebarmen. Their efforts were rewarded when from the foot of a scrum on the Castlebar 22 Michael Murphy broke powerfully. When he looked up he found fullback Andy Moynihan coming like a stem train through the middle. He offloaded to Andy who touched down for a fine Ballina try. This effort must have drained him as he missed the conversion. Castlebar fought back gallantly and found themselves in the Ballina 22 where Paul Coady and Tadhg Kirby were causing huge problems for Ballina. An offside offence gave Richie Feeney the chance to stretch the lead with a well struck penalty from near the touch line. There was once again daylight between the teams. Ballina decided to have a go from the kick off but disaster struck for them when Mark Staunton intercepted a pass on the 22 metre line. The tall Castlebarman took off with several Ballina lads in pursuit. There was to be no stopping him however and he touched down near the posts to give Castlebar their third try and Ballina a mountain to climb. Richie Feeney was again on hand to convert. Ballina to their credit fought on making good progress upfield and were it not for a bone crunching tackle from Nigel Byrne on Paul Neary they would surely have scored in the corner shortly afterwards. The Castlebar pack were now controlling affairs and kept play near the middle of the field. Both teams introduced their replacements as the game entered the final 10 minutes and legs became increasingly weary. It was one of these Robbie Cusack who provided the final score of the match when with his first touch he scored a lovely drop goal from just outside the 22. This left the final score of the 2009 Cawley Cup Final Castlebar 30 Ballina 14.
Castlebar: Richie Feeney; Fintan Casey, Nigel Byrne, Tadhg Kirby, Mark Staunton, Paul Coady, Chris Cusack, Kevin Cox, Neil Coyle, Rory Hughes, Daire Mulgrew, Alex Goor, Ger Prendergast, Enda Murphy, David Staunton. Replacements : Paddy durcan, Paddy Flannelly, Chris Rogan, Brian Flannery, Robbie Cusack.
Ballina :- Andrew Moynihan, Pat Hackett, Cormac Quinn, Michael Clarke, Niall O’Malley, David Newman, Michael Murphy, Kieran Melvin, Richard Kelly, Tom Tolan, Danny Carrabine, Conor Forde, Shane Loftus, Philip Timony, Aiden Mcnulty. Replacements : James O’Connor, Paul Neary, Mark Healy, Arthur West, Desmond Hooley.
Referee Peter McCarthy.
CAWLEY CUP SEMI - FINAL (11/04/2009)
Castlebar into Cawley Cup Final with spirited display in Carrowholly
Westport 11 Castlebar 13
Castlebar travelled to Carrowholly on Easter Saturday afternoon for a Cawley Cup semi-final showdown with near neighbours Westport. The Cawley Cup is a Connacht Cup competition reserved for Junior teams. The lovely April afternoon with the smell of the sea air gave a pleasant backdrop for this keenly contested fixture.
Westport at home has always been a huge ask for Castlebar teams in the past with the Westport men always putting up the stiffest of opposition. However on this occasion Castlebar had the measure of the seasiders with a huge team performance and a man of the match display from fullback Richie Feeney.
Castlebar now go on to play Ballina in the final at the Sportsground in Galway next Sunday.
Castlebar Rugby Club are asking for a big turnout in Galway to cheer on the team.
Castlebar played against the wind in the opening half. There was a huge physical contest during this period with most of the play between the two 10 metre lines. Castlebar had great performances from Alex Goor, Enda Murphy, Neil Coyle and Daire Mulgrew. Richie Feeney broke the deadlock after an infringement with a well struck penalty from near half way. This left the half time score Castlebar 3 Westport 0.
The second half was a very well contested affair and the necessity to get scores opened the game up with both sides attempting to get the ball wide without leaving themselves open. It was Westport who started the stronger with attacking play which would eventually bring rewards. They equalised with a penalty from Ryan Cafferkey. They kept up the pressure and when the opportunity presented itself Kevin Corcoran went over for a well taken try the result of fine play from the forwards. Ryan Cafferkey was unlucky with the conversion which came off the upright. Castlebar responded well and moved the ball upfield through several phases of strong forward play. Paul Coady was going well at scrumhalf making the best of his opportunities. The ball was presented and moved quickly out along the backline where winger Fintan Casey went over in the corner. Richie Feeney was on hand to convert and restore the Castlebar lead. However as the game edged towards the final stages Cafferkey was again on hand to give the Westport men the narrowest of leads with a well taken penalty into the wind. The game was almost up for Castlebar when they were awarded a penalty in midfield for an infringement. Richie Feeney again stepped up striking the ball sweetly over the middle of the bar to give Castlebar a 2 point lead going into the final minute which they held to the whistle.
The final score was Castlebar 13 Westport 11.
Referee Paul Jennings.
Castlebar: Richie Feeney; Fintan Casey, Nigel Byrne, Tadhg Kirby, Ronan Conway, Paul Coady, Chris Cusack, Kevin Cox, Neil Coyle, Rory Hughes, Daire Mulgrew, Alex Goor, Ger Prendergast, Enda Murphy, David Staunton. Replacements: Brian Flannery, Paddy Durcan, Paddy Flannelly, Chris Rogan, Sean Faulkner.
Cawley Cup Quarter Final (29/03/09)
Castlebar 10 - Sligo 5
Castlebar played Sligo at Cloondeash in the quarter final of the Cawley Cup on Sunday March 29th. This was a tough assignment for the Castlebar men who were overrun by their opponent in the league. The weather was of no assistance and strong swirling winds and at times heavy squals threatened to spoil this most intense of encounters. Castlebar to their credit met the physical presence and power of Sligo head on and with a man of the match performance from second row Daire Mulgrew and solid work from the likes of Ger Prendergast, Kevin Cox, Rory Hughes, Paul Coady, Richie Feeney and replacement Sean Faulkner eked out a victory which seemed unlikely before the match.
Castlebar played against the wind in the first half. This brought a plethora of long testing kicks down on top of fullback Richie Feeney who caught well and cleared everything thrown at him over the heads of the Sligo men. The resultant linouts were well contested and Sligo were well on top here early on. The resultant loose play brought infringements and penalties to Sligo. Julian Rippon and Liam Foley failed to open the Sligo account from placed balls not helped by the tricky wind. These failures gave Castlebar heart and slowly and surely they made their way up the field and ito the Sligo 22. From the base of a scrum Christy Cusack fed Paul Coady who passed to the on running Nigel Byrne. Byrne excellently rounded winger Matt Drury to come in and touch down under the posts. Robbie Cusack was on hand to convert and give Castlebar a 7 point lead. Credit for the score must also be shared by the forwards who created the opportunity such as Daire Mulgrey, Paddy Flannelly and Brian Flannery. Sligo regained the initiative and in the closing 10 minutes of the half had Castlebar pinned back in their 22. Hard work and good defending kept them at bay but the Castlebar defence was breached when scrum half Billy Leahy broke from the base of a Sligo scrum to cross the line untouched. They failed to convert but kept Castlebar defending to the end of the half. Half time score Casstlebar 7 Sligo 5.
The weather softened a little in the second half but the pace and intensity of the fare on offer remained intense and well contested. However much of the play was in the midfield area without threat to either end line. Great defensive work from replacement Sean Faulkner and Fintan Casey was crucial as several Sligo attacks from the likes of Mata Fafita, Adrian McHale, Daire Cox and Andre Taureweha threatend to swing the game in Sligo’s favour. Great work in the lineout from Daire Mulgrew and Ger Prendergast gave Castlebar the edge throughout the half. This good defencive work was repeated in the scrum and the loose where Castlebar did well against a bigger and more powerful Sligo pack. It took something special to break the deadlock and when a fine Sean Faulkner move brought the ball to Paul Coady in midfield he took his chance with a fine dropkick. Castlebar defended well for the remainder of the match to deny Sligo the try they needed and leave the final score Castlebar 10 Sligo 5.
Castlebar now face Westport in the semi-final of the competition.
Castlebar: Richie Feeney; Nigel Byrne, Tadhg Kirby, Paul Coady, Ronan Conway, Robbie Cusack, Chris Cusack; Kevin Cox; Neil Coyle, Brian Flannery, Daire Mulgrew, Rory Hughes; Ger Prendergast, Paddy Flannelly, David Staunton.
Replacement: Paddy Durcan, Sean Faulkner, Martin Gill, Chris Rogan, Fintan Casey.
Sligo :- Julian Rippon, Donal Finneran, Mata Fafita, Andre Taureweha, Matt Drury, Kevin foley, Billy Leahy, Adrian McHale, Ross O’Boyle, Daire Cox, James Wilson, Jamie Bowes, Ross Mannion, Gary Conneally, Simon Coulter.
Cawley Cup (08/03/09)
Castlebar 63 Ballinasloe 0
Castlebar hosted Ballinasloe in the Cawley Cup at Cloondeash on Sunday 8th March. The day was wet, cold and windy with sporadic showers of sleet and rain to keep everyone on their toes. Castlebar had previously met Ballinasloe in Ballinasloe in the Connacht Cup where a 48-0 victory was achieved. All in attendance were hoping for a better showing this time but it was not to be.
Castlebar capitalised on the shortcomings of their visitors right from the kick off where bad handling gave possession to Castlebar and the gates opened for Enda Murphy to touch down in the first minute. The wind put paid to the conversion from near the left wing. Castlebar moved forward from the kickoff and Murphy was again on hand to touch down under the posts. Ronan Conway converted. The game settled a little but Castlebar pressed on and after 10 minutes Enda Murphy had his third following several phases on the Ballinasloe line. Mark Staunton added another when good lineout ball was moved to the backs. There was no response from Ballinasloe who were bereft of ideas both in defence and attack. Chris Cusack added the fifth try when he broke from the base of a ruck near the line. Ronan Conway converted. The backs again came to the fore when Richie Feeney made a break which opened the defence for Tadhg Kirby to touch down. Conway again converted. Ballinasloe hearts must surely have been broken when from their lineout Alex Goor gained possession and went over just before halftime to leave the score Castlebar 41 Ballinasloe 0.
The pace dropped considerably in the second half not helped by the inclement weather. Sean Faulkner went over almost immediately but was called back by referee Roy Gibson for a forward pass. From the resultant scrum Castlebar gained possession and swift hands from Christy Cusack to Ronan Conway to Mark Staunton brought the first try of the second half which Ronan Conway converted. Ballinasloe were unable to get out of their own half and poor handling gave possession to Daire Mulgrew outside the 10 metre line and the young second row made great ground to touch down for his first try at this level. Mark Staunton added his third and Enda Murphy his fourth before the final whistle sounded to leave the score Castlebar 63 Ballinasloe 0.
Castlebar: Richie Feeney; Fintan Casey, Mark Staunton, Tadhg Kirby, Nigel Byrne, Ronan Conway, Chris Cusack; Brian Flannery, Neil Coyle, Kevin Cox; Daire Mulgrew, Rory Hughes; Ger Prendergast, Enda Murphy, Alex Goor.
Replacement: Paddy Durcan, Robbie Cusack, Liam Molloy, Sean Faulkner.
Ballinasloe : N. Corkery, J Roche, R Shepperd, L Feerick, M Gibbons, D Fenton, S Dolan, A O’Hara, G Sheridan, T Dolan, E Courtney, J Creegan, M Bruce, S Walshe, A Naughton.
Replacemants : K Fogarty, G Reynolds, F Galvin, J Kelly
Ref, Roy Gibson
Connacht Junior Cup (01/03/09)
Castlebar 16 Galwegians 27
Castlebar hosted Galwegians in the Quarter Final of the Connacht Cup at Cloondeash on Sunday 1st March. This was an lovely spring day with the pitch dry and an awkward crossfield wind to contend with. This was a game Castlebar needed to win to redeem their season after a series of indifferent results in the league.
Both teams started confidently and cautiously intent on achieving the desired result. From the start the Castlebar pack were on top and made lots of ground in the loose and were solid in the scrum. However they failed to deal with the towering Brian McClaren in the lineout where several plays were lost early on. The early encounters were careful and measured and it took 20 minutes for the first score to come following an infringement. This was a penalty to Galwegians outside the 22 and in spite of the tricky wind Ross Shaughnessy gave Galwegians an early lead. Castlebar responded well and brought play right down to the Galwegians line where a 5 metre scrum was awarded. Galwegians No. 8 Richie Dodd broke away from the base of the scrum and made great ground to the midfield area where he transferred to his backs who moved well and cut through the Castlebar defence for winger Tom Quinn to go over in the corner for a fine team try. The conversion was missed to leave Castlebar 8 points down. Richie Feeney gave Castlebar hope when he put over a tricky penalty from outside the 10 metre line to leave the half time score Castlebar 3 Galwegians 8.
Castlebar were rampant in the early stages of the second half putting all sorts of pressure on Galwegians. An early penalty was missed but Castlebar kept the effort up and Richie Feeney broke the line and made ground into the Galwegians 22 where Tadhg Kirby took over and went for the line to be held up 5 metres out. The pack took over and after several phases of crash ball Nigel Byrne went over in the corner for a hard earned try to level the scores. Castlebar continued to dominate helped by some fine tactical kicking. The effort paid off when they won a penalty inside the Galwegians 22 which Robbie Cusack converted to give Castlebar the lead for the first time. However the handling had become careless and the patient Galwegians were to benefit when Ross Shaughnesy intercepted in midfield to go over for a fine individual try under the posts which Paraic Molloy converted. This was cruel from a Castlebar point of view but the same player repeated the medicine when a ball was dropped in midfield some minutes later and the try was again converted to give Galwegians a 22 -11 lead. Castlebar were now on the back foot while Galwegians worked hard to defend the lead. Quick thinking by Robbie Cusack from a penalty put substitute Ronan Conway clear on the wing where Conway excellently rounded the winger to go over in the corner and give Castlebar hope in the last 10 minutes. This however was Castlebars last score and when flanker Nick McCarthy intercepted another Castlebar ball and went over in the corner he brought the final score to Galwegians 27 Castlebar16.
Castlebar: Richie Feeney; Fintan Casey, Nigel Byrne, Tadhg Kirby,Damien McLoughlin, Robbie Cusack, Chris Cusack; Brian Flannery, Neil Coyle, Kevin Cox; Alex Goor, Rory Hughes; Ger Prendergast, Enda Murphy, David Staunton.
Replacement: Daire Mulgrew, Paddy Durcan, Mark Staunton, Ronan Conway, Martin Gill.
Galwegians : P Molloy, E Dowling, M O’Flaherty, I Cullinane, T Quinn, R Shaughnessy, B Draper, R Dodd, N McCarthy, J Moran, B McClarren, J Perrott, D McHugh, R Fitzgerald, J Naughton,
Replacements ; A O’Sullivan, S Perkins, M Mulkerrins.
Ref, Joe Doyle
Connacht J1A League (22/02/09)
Corinthians 28 Castlebar 7
Castlebar travelled to Corinthians for a crucial Connacht Junior League fixture knowing that they needed a win to claim a top four place and AIB Cup Rugby next year. Corinthians on the other hand needed a Bonus point win to capture the Junior League title for themselves as they are hotly pursued by a revitalised Monivea team. This would have been their first title in over 30 years. The mild spring day was ideal for rugby with a lively breeze helping Castlebar in the first half.
The first half was dominated by Castlebar with an excellent performance from the entire pack. They competed well with Corinthians in all aspects from lineout and scrum to the loose. Castlebar however did not make best use of the posession won and a series of wayward kicks let Corinthians off the hook and brought resultant pressure back on themselves. A scrum under the Corinthians posts offered Castlebar an excellent chance of a score. This came when after a great set piece scrumhalf Christy Cusack stormed over for the opening score of the day. Robbie Cusack converted to give Castlebar a 7-0 lead midway through the half which was a true reflection of the game so far. Corinthians responded well and broke upfield where a foot in touch denied them a certain try. Barry Sullivan converted a penalty to leave the half time score Castlebar 7 Corinthians 3.
Corinthians had the benefit of the breeze in the second half and after 10 minutes Sullivan used it well to convert another penalty to leave just the minimum between the teams. Castlebar were competing well and looked comfortable when two carding incidents left them a man short in the pack for the remainder of the game. Corinthians began to take advantage and gradually got the upper hand. Ciaran Dunne went over for Corinthians first try. Castlebar responded well with a breakaway attempt but the game had begun to turn. Kieran Dolan made his mark on the game with two excellent trys at the end of fine play from the home side. Barry Sullivan added another on 80 minutes to give Corinthians the bonus point they needed and the League title.
Castlebar have Galwegians at home in Cloondeash next Sunday in the Connacht Junior Cup Quarter Final.
Corinthians: R Ferguson; C Dunne, J Buckley, D Sullivan, K Dunne; B Sullivan, G Flaherty; M Kelly, D Barber, C O’Shea; J Dileen, G Ward; T Linane, C McGuckian, B McCann.
Replacement: D Murphy, K Diffenthal and S McInearney.
Castlebar: R Feeney; D McLoughlin, M Staunton, N Byrne, F Casey; R Cusack, C Cusack; B Flannery, N Coyle, K Cox; A Gorr, R Hughes; P Flannery, E Murphy, D Staunton.
Replacement: G Prendergast for Staunton, R Conway for Casey, Daire Mulgrew.
Ref N Crowley.
Connacht J1A League (15/02/09)
Castlebar 12 Corrib 11
Castlebar played Corrib in the J1 Connacht League at Headford on Sunday February 15th at 12.00 pm. On a cool sunny day with a lively breeze the scene was set for an intense encounter. The last time Castlebar visited this ground they had their bubble well and truly burst by a proud Corrib side. Corrib were missing some of their stalwarts this time but home advantage with passionate support from the sideline would give them a great lift. Castlebar also have changes recently but were coming off a good win in the cup away to Ballinasloe are beginning to show some promise again after an indifferent midseason period. This was a game which both Corrib and Castlebar needed to win to keep up their challenge for a top four place in the league which would have ensured AIB Junior Cup rugby in 2010. Just as expected there was a huge forward struggle with scores few and far between.
The game began intensely with Castlebar defending their line from the start. Their defence was resolute and it took 35 minutes for the first score to come which was a penalty to Corrrib for an infringement which Charlie Sullivan converted. Castlebar had big games in this period from Rory Hughes, Alex Goor, Enda Murphy and Paddy Flannelly. Corrib were well served by Steve Walshe, John Newell, Ray Colleran and Alan Bane. The tide began to turn in Castlebars favour and they found themselves close to the Corrib line. Quick hands from the base of a ruck put Damien McLoughlin through in the corner for the opening try and Castlebars first score. Richie Feeney converted to leave Castlebar 7 – 3 ahead at half time.
The intensity and forward battles continued into the second half with Corrib putting in a huge effort. The star of the Corrib comeback was Barry Lee who took an excellent drop goal to bring the margin back to the minimum. It was Lee who was again on hand to touch down after an excellent Corrib period. The try went unconverted and this was to prove crucial in the end. Castlebar responded well and spent most of the last quarter camped in the Corrib half, attempting to rescue the game and their season. The effort eventually paid off in the 80th minute and the last play of the game when winger Fintan Casey went over for the crucial score giving Castlebar the narrowest of victories and a final score of Castlebar 12, Corrib 11.
Castlebar face the unbeaten Corinthians away next week in the same competition.
Castlebar :- Richie Feeney, Damien McLoughlin, Tadhg Kirby, Nigel Byrne, Fintan Casey, Robbie Cusack, Chris Cusack, Liam Molloy, Niall Coyle, Brian Flannery, Rory Hughes, Alex Goor, Paddy Flannelly, Enda Murphy, Davy Staunton. Subs : Daire Mulgrew, Ronan Conway, Kevin Cox.
Corrib :- Cillian Bane, Mike Monaghan, James gavin, Dara O’Connor, Ronan Casey, Charlie Sullivan, Barry Lee, Alan Bane, Martin Newell, Kevin Reilly, Shane Walshe, Ray Colleran, John Newell, Brian McDonagh, Cathal Reddington. Replacements : Conor Moylan, Dara Higgins, Eric Flynn.
Connacht J2 League (15/02/2009)
CASTLEBAR 19 WESTPORT 0
Castlebar played host to Westport in the Connacht J2 League at Cloondeash on Sunday February 15th at 12.30pm. This match took place in ideal conditions with the pitch holding up well in spite of the recent severe weather. Both teams had several changes from their last encounters which made the form hard to judge. Castlebar continued the excellent form of recent weeks with a win which left their own line intact and excellent performances from several of their younger players. Westport will wonder how they did not manage a score or two having dominated for long periods.
Castlebar started strongly and kept Westport on the back foot for much of the first quarter. Great work from the resurgent Seamus Devanney and flankers Cathal O’Caoimhin and Alan Gavin helped the Castlebar cause greatly. Paul Yeun playing his first game at scrum half was excellent for Castlebar. However it was in the back division that Castlebar had the superiority they needed. The scoring opened when winger Donal Conway went over after a lively back movement which saw good work from Mark Staunton, Tom Murphy and Sean Faulkner. The try went unconverted however. Westport responded well and penned Castlebar back for long periods with great work from Owen Hughes, Joe Sheridan and Des Keane. Their efforts however failed to find the sore which would have launched their challenge. Castlebar kept cool with great work from the pack and it was Mark Staunton who profited when he went over for the second Castlebar try of the day. Sean Faulkner converted to leave the half time score Castlebar 12 Westport 0.
Westport began the second half in a positive fashion and spent most of it in the Castlebar half. Castlebar to their credit defended excellently and conceded only a few penalties which Westport failed to take advantage of. Westport had great servants in forward Simon Fabby, Des Keane and Pat Staunton while the half back combination of Tom Conway and Mark Gallan worked well all day. Castlebar however had answers for all the Westport questions and midway through the half broke away with a fine backs move in which Sean Faulkner Chris Rogan and Mark Staunton combined well for Mark Staunton to touch down under the Westport posts. Sean Faulkner was on hand to convert. Westport pressed on for the remainder of the game but failed to breach the Castlebar line. The game finished Castlebar 19 Westport 0.
C astlebar :- Sean Faulkner, John Joe Ormsby, Tom Murphy, Ciaran Flynn, Donal Conway, Mark Staunton, Paul Yeun, , Frank Hobbs, Paddy Durcan, James Hunter, Chris Rogan, Seamus Devanney, Cathal O’Caoibhin, Alan Gavin, Gavin O’Sullivan. Replacements : Martin Gill.
Westport :- Martin Polak, Steve Hutchinson, Pat Staunton, Pat Coonan, Kevin Kilker, Mark Gallon, Tom Conway, Joe Sheridan, Charlie Reilly, Declan Wever, Ian Dever, Owen Hughes, Simon Fabby, Des Keane, Pat McCormack. Replacements : Des Reidy, Matty Bourke, Ryan Cafferkey, Redmond Cabot, Alan Cusack.
Connacht Junior Cup (01/02/09)
CASTLEBAR 48 BALLINASLOE 0
Castlebar played Ballinasloe in Ballinasloe on Sunday afternoon in the Heineken Connacht Cup first round. This was an ideal day for rugby with the dry day adding enormously to the occasion. Ballinasloe have regrouped in recent years and are now playing in in division J1B of the Connacht League where they have just two wins so far this season. Castlebar are coming off the back of a disappointing loss to Buccanneers in the league and are determined to prove their worth. This match verified the gap between the two teams in terms of league position but it was good to see Castlebar playing such open and positive rugby with superiority in most positions on the field.
Castlebar began the game in determined mood and moved the ball well keeping Ballinasloe on the back foot for long periods. The Castlebar pack were on top throughout with Alex Goor and Rory Hughes prominent at all times. The first score of the game came after 12 minutes when Nigel Byrne touched down after great ground was gained by strong forward play. The lead was stretched a few minutes later when Richie Feeney kicked a fine penalty from near the 10 metre line. Castlebar now had a firm hold on the game and when Feeney opened up after a good back move there was nothing to stop him as he touched down for the second try of the day. He converted it himself to leave the half time score Castlebar 15 Ballinasloe 0.
The second half continued with Castlebar having the wind at their back and no apparent threat from the home team who wilted as the game progressed. Eight minutes into the half Nigel Byrne was again on hand to score at the end of a fine team effort from Castlebar. Richie Feeney converted to leave Castlebar 22-0 up. Castlebar kept the pressure up and the game was now being played mostly in the Ballinasloe half. After strong forward play Paddy Flannelly got over the line. Feeney again converted. The backs were also going well and Robbie Cusack went over to stretch the lead to 34-0. Richie Feeney added another and converted as the home effort evaporated. The forwards finished the scoring when Alex Goor touched down for the seventh try of the day. Robbie Cusack converted to leave the full time score Castlebar 48 Ballinasloe 0 Castlebar play Galwegians at home in the next round on March 1st.
Castlebar :- Richie Feeney, Fintan Casey, Damien McLoughlin, Nigel Byrne, Tadhg Kirby, Robbie Cusack, Chris Cusack, Brian Flannery, Neil Coyle, Liam Molloy, Rory Hughes, Alex Goor, Paddy Flannelly, Ger Prendergast, David Staunton .Subs, Ronan Conway, Enda Murphy, Daire Mulgrew, Paddy Durcan,Chris Rogan.
Ballinasloe :- Niall Lockery, Kevin Galvin, John Kelly, Ross Tyrell, Mark Gibbons, Richard Shepperd, Sean Daly, John Creegan, Andy O’Hara, Sean Warde, Kevin Dolan, Owen Courtney, Malcom Bruce, Gary Sheridan, Subs : Kevin Hegarty, Harry Reynolds, Mark Halligan.
Connacht J1A League (25/01/09)
Castlebar 9 Buccaneers 25
Castlebar played Buccaneers in the J1 Connacht League at Cloondeash on Sunday January 25th at 2.00 pm. On a rare sunny day with a lively breeze from the southwest the scene was set for an intense encounter. This was a game Castlebar needed to win to keep up their challenge for a top four place in the league which would have ensured AIB Junior Cup rugby for the club in 2010. Buccaneers having had a dismal season so far arrived with their strongest squad of the season and had every intention of leaving Cloondeash with a win. This they did in emphatic fashion leaving the Castlebar lads pondering what might have been.
The game began in whirlwind fashion with Castlebar defending their line form the start. Their defence was resolute and time and again they broke out of the 22. Buccaneers kept the pressure up and got the first penalty of the day which Marcus Madden missed narrowly. From the restart Castlebar broke up upfield and were awarded a penalty inside the 22 for an infringement . Richie Feeney converted to give Castlebar an early lead. Buccaneeers pressurised from the restart with good work from Niall O’Hara and Paul Harte. Castlebar were caught offside near the 10 metre line and once again the resultant penalty was missed narrowly. Buccaneers were showing the greater desire and their back moves were menacing but great work fom Alex Goor Rory Hughes and Davy Staunton in the loose brought Castlebar upfield where another penalty was awarded for offside. Feeney again obliged to stretch the Castlebar lead. Buccaneers stayed calm and concentrated on setting up back moves which stretched the Castlebar defence again and again. Another infringement gave Marcus Madden a chance to open his account which he did. Castlebar again worked their way upfield with the likes of Kevin Cox, Rory Hughes and Brian Flannery doing well and being rewarded again with a penalty. Feeney stretched the Castlebar score to 9. Buccs kept the pressure on Castlebar from the restart and as half time approached Cormac Shehee was on the end of a fine move to touch down in the corner. Madden was on hand to convert and give the lead to Buccaneers. Castlebar replied well and Chris Rogan made a break along the wing before offloading to Rory Hughes who came to ground just inches short but the resultant phases failed to breach the Buccs line. Referee Paul Jennings sounded the half time whistle with the half time score Castlebar 9 Buccaneers 10.
As the second half got under way it became obvious that Buccaneers meant business and continued to pressurise the home team. This brought a penalty for an infringement, which Marcus Madden converted with growing confidence. They were causing all sorts of problems for Castlebar out wide with a stronger and well drilled back division. Castlebar to their credit did not give up and won a penalty near half way which went unconverted. The strong running of Paul Harte opened the Castlebar defence where he offloaded to scrum half Mark Bruce for a fine try under the posts. The excellent Marcus Madden was on hand to convert. The game was now slipping away from Castlebar and when Mark Bruce broke the line again and put Marcus Madden in under the posts there was only going to be one winner. Madden converted to leave the final score Castlebar 9 Buccaneers 25
Castlebar :- Richie Feeney, Mark Stauntom, Nigel Byrne, Enda Murphy, Fintan Casey, Robbie Cusack, Chris Cusack, Kevin Cox, Niall Coyle, Brian Flannery, Rory Hughes, Alex Goor, Ger Prendergast, Paddy Flannelly, Davy Staunton. Subs : Liam Molloy, Daire Mulgrew, Chris Rogan.
Buccaneers :- Conor Lavelle, Cormac Shehee, Paul Harte, Karl Turle, Ian Kilbride, Niall O’Hara, Mark Bruce, Brendan Gilligan, Marcus Madden, Greg McGill, David Dunning, Eddie Brady, Colin Waters, Stephen Woods, Sean Stapleton. Subs : Anthony Hughes, John Stery.
Connacht J2 League
CASTLEBAR 46 - Corrib 12
Castlebar played host to Corrib in the Connacht J2 League at Cloondeash on Sunday January 25th at 2.30pm. On a day when the sun shone so did the rugby of the Castlebar development squad who put on a show which was a joy to behold. Corrib it must be said travelled with a depleted squad which did not help their cause as the scoreline suggests. Great credit is due to Ivor Gilmartin and David Flannelly for the efforts they are putting in with this squad and for consistently getting the best out of the resources available.
Castlebar started very strongly and kept the Corrib on the back foot with back play which was of the highest order. The elusive Ciaran Flynn opened the Castlebar account with a well worked try which Ronan Conway converted. Conway marshalled the game from outhalf and his kicking and passing helped the Castlebar cause enormously. Corrib responded with fine attacking football of their own which resulted in a try under the posts which they converted. Sean Faulkner at full back was enjoying his game and made a dazzling run from his own 22 to touch down in the corner for the second Castlebar try of the day. Castlebar were now turning the screw and this resulted in two penalties for infringements which Conway converted with style. Ronan Moran was having a great game at flanker and crossed the Corrib line for the third try which was again converted. As half time approached the talented Tadhg Kirby joined in with a particularly impressive touch down which Conway converted to leave the half time score Castlebar 32 Corrib 7.
The second half saw Castlebar having the benefit of the wind and Corrib realising that this was going to be a hard one to win. To their credit they defended stoutly and made a game of it. The Castlebar pack was solid all day with big games from Gavin Sullivan, Paddy Durcan, Alan Gavin and Damien Glackin. Damien McLoughlin returning from injury and Tadhg Kirby added two more tries each of which Ronan Conway converted. Corrib added a converted consolation try before the full time whistle sounded to leave the score Castlebar 46 Corrib 12.
C astlebar :- Sean Faulkner, Damien McLoughlin, Ciaran Flynn, Tadhg Kirby, Gary Redmond, Ronan Conway, Paudie O’Malley, James Hunter, Paddy Durcan, Frank Hobbs, Damien Glackin , Paul Heverin, Ronan Moran, Alan Gavin, Gavin Sullivan,. Replacements : Martin Gill.
AIB ALL IRELAND CUP 03/01/09
Castlebar 17 Richmond 23
Castlebar Played Richmond of Limerick in the first round of the AIB Junior Cup at Cloondeash on Saturday January 3rd at 2.00 pm. This was Castlebar’s second year in the competition and all at the club knew that this was a big game against formidable Munster opposition. The conditions were ideal on a cool crisp January day with the pitch in fine order due to the dry weather. The game turned out to be a fine advertisement for Rugby Football with all the passion and excitement associated with the AIB Junior Cup.
The game started at a frantic pace with both sides attempting to gain the upper hand. Castlebar were superior throughout in the scrums and this gave them an early advantage and brought them into the Richmond 22 after 10 minutes. The opening score came as a direct result of a well worked lineout where Ger Prendergast tapped down to the on running Eugene Butterworth who went over powerfully for the try. Robbie Cusack converted to give Castlebar a 7 – 0 lead. This sparked the Richmond team into action and they kept Castlebar under pressure for the remainder of the half. This pressure forced penalties and the first from the right for crossing was missed by Jeffrey McNamara. Two more were awarded on the left for infringements at the breakdown one of which was converted by Darragh Clancy to leave it 7 – 3 after 20 minutes. Richmond got the break they needed soon after when James Willis who was brilliant throughout intercepted a Castlebar pass near the 10 metre line to go over under the posts for Richmonds first try. Darragh Clancy converted to leave the score 10 – 3 to Richmond. Richmond were growing in confidence with every move and added another try with a fine passing move from a lineout near midfield which fullback Stephen Clancy touched down under the posts just before half time. Darragh Clancy was again on hand to convert and leave the halftime score at 17 – 7 to Richmond.
Castlebar emeged from the halftime break in a determined mood putting Richmond under all sorts of pressure from the start. They were rewarded when Richmond No.8 Ian Madden put in a dangerously high tacke at the 10 metre line. Richie Feeney who was excellent throughout stepped up and converted with a fine kick to bring the score back to 17 – 10. Richmond replied by increasing the pressure themselves and were awarded a penalty for offside which Darragh Clancy converted to stretch the Richmond lead to 20 – 10. They looked to have the game wrapped up soon after when they unleashed a sweeping backline move which floundered when Mike O’Friel knocked on with the line at his mercy. They kept the pressure up and won a penalty which Jeffrey McNamara converted to leave the score 23 – 10. Castlebar’s fate seemed to be sealed with 12 minutes to go. However the Castlebar lads had other ideas and again seized the initiative attacking the Richnond line from all angles. The breakthrough came when the excellent Nigel Byrne broke through after several phases to touch down under the posts. Richie Feeney converted to leave the score 23 – 17 to Richmond. Castlebar kept the pressure up for the final 6 minutes as a converted try would have given them a historic win but it was not to be and when referee Michael Patten sounded the final whistle Richmond had won 23 – 17.
Castlebar had big games from Eugene Butterworth, Alex Goor, Ger Prendergast, Paddy Flannelly, Brian Flannery, Nigel Byrne, Robbie Cusack, Richie Feeney and Davy Staunton. Richmond have fine players in James Willis, James McDermott , Darragh Clancy, Adrian Browne, Jeffrey McNamara and John O’Driscoll.
Castlebar :- Richie Feeney, Mark Stauntom, Nigel Byrne, Enda Murphy, Fintan Casey, Robbie Cusack, Chris Cusack, Brian Flannery, Niall Coyle, Eugene Butterworth, Rory Hughes, Alex Goor, Ger Prendergast, Paddy Flannelly, Davy Staunton. Subs : Kevin Cox, Paddy Durcan, Daire Mulgrew, Jason Keane, Chris Rogan.
Richmond :- Stephen Clancy, Jody O’Sullivan, James McDermott, John O’Driscoll, Mike O’Friel, Darragh Clancy, Jeffrey McNamara, Alex Simpson, Thomas Aherne, Paul Wallace, Adrian Browne, Barry Woods, James Willis, Gearoid Phelan, Ian Madden. Subs : Keith Reynolds, Mike Mannion, Mautice O’Connor, Cliften Markham, Darren Gallagher.
Match Report Castlebar Rugby Cub
Captains 15 V Presidents 15
Castlebar Rugby Club players and visitors shook down the Christmas dinner on St.Stephens Day at 2.30 when the Captains selection took on the Presidents selection at Cloondeash. This was as nice a St.Stephens day as anyone could remember and the spirit enthusiasm and quality of the football on view was a joy to behold in this Mick Byrne sponsored fixture. Great old warriors and young pretenders mixed and tested themselves under the winter sun on a surface which is a credit to grounds manager Trevor Ardhill. Refereeing duties were shared between Shane McElwee and Daithi Flood each doing a half. Players were out to impress as starting places in next Saturday’s AIB Junior Cup match with Richnond of Limerick were up for grabs
The game opened with gusto as the Captains pack struggled to come to terms with the enthusiasm and cuteness of the Presidents seasoned warriors. The first quarter was played in the Captains half mostly around the 22. Quality line jumping from Shane Casey and resilient scrumming from the likes of Gerry Casey, Gary Redmond and Eugene Butterworth ensured an advantage from the start. The Captains 15 began to settle but could still not emerge from their own half as it became apparent that something special would be needed to get the advantage and so it happened.
The excellent Davey Staunton at no.8 passed long to Nigel Byrne who opened up powerfully and passed to the on running Danny McGing now operating on the wing. McGing gave it everything from inside his own half to touch down unopposed for the opening try of the game. These three conspired again five minutes later to end the game as a contest when Davey Staunton gave a long looping pass towards the wing where Danny McGing was waiting and the cover moved towards him. He tapped back to Nigel Byrne who raced over from near the 10 metre line to touch down near the posts. Richie Feeney converted to leave the score 12 – 0 to the Captains 15.
The opposition were visibly flagging at this stage but still had a sting in them when the Casey brothers Shane and Fintan combined with a quick pass from Fintan from which Shane made the hard yards to offload back to Fintan who touched down for a fine try which Robbie Cusack converted.
In keeping with the spirit of the season both teams swopped back lines in the second half to keep the game interesting. All players got a run and some starters were glad to get to the shower early. Shane Casey was increasing in stature as the game progressed and it was he who got the first score of the second half when he made a powerful run from the base of a ruck on the 22 and touch down to restore parity at 12 points each. Brian Flannery with skillful handling added another to give the Presidents men victory 17 points to 12. This will give the selectors plenty to ponder when they sit down to pick their team for Saturday.
Captains 15 from :- Kevin Cox, Paddy Durcan, Liam Molloy, Daire Mulgrew, Rory Hughes, Ger Prendergast, Luke Staunton, David Staunton, Chris Cusack, Jason Keane, Enda Murphy, Nigel Byrne, Simon O’Malley, Ciaran Flynn, Danny McGing, Richie Feeney, Tom Murphy.
Presidents 15 from :- Brian Flattery, Ian McDonagh, Eugene Butterworth, Gary Redmond, Gerry Casey, David Casey, Gavin O’Sullivan, Shane Casey, Fintan Casey, Robbie Cusack, Paraic Healey, Tadhg Kirby, Sean Faulkner, Paraic McDonnell, Ronan Moran, John Joe Ormsby, Paudie O Malley.
Connacht J1A Round 9
CASTLEBAR 19 GALWEGIANS 5
Castlebar played Galwegians in Cloondeash on Sunday afternoon in round 9 of the Connacht J1 League. This was a typical winter day with a sharp southwest breeze keeping everyone on their toes. The rugby reflected this with a very intense and lively game. Both teams are mid table but Galwegians had the better of Castlebar in the corresponding fixture last season. Unusually they arrived without a viable front row and referee Paul Jennings decreed that the scrums would be uncontested.
The game started at a dynamic pace with play moving from end to end without any great threat of a score. Galwegians were playing the better rugby through fine work from Colin Flannery and Alex O’Sullivan when at the end of the first quarter they were awarded a penalty for an infringement outside the Castlebar 22. The Galwegians scrumhalf Ben Draper took it quickly then broke on the blindside before offloading to Tom Quinn who went over in the corner for the opening try of the game. Ross Shaughnessy however missed the conversion. This seemed to spur on Castlebar who moved upfield with purpose through powerful running from Eugene Butterworth, Ger Prendergast and Alex Goor. Tadhg Kirby made a fine break through the Galwegians defence which lead to Mark Staunton crossing the Galwegians line under severe pressure only to have a 5 metre scrum awarded as the ball was not visible. Christy Cusack broke from the base of the resultant scrum to touch down and level the match. Fintan Casey was unsuccesful with the conversion attempt. Castlebar continued to pressure Galwegians resulting in a penalty for a high tackle on Tadhg Kirby. Richie Feeney was unsuccessful however. As the game stayed in the Galwegians half Martin Mulkerring misjudged a ball to knockon and give Castlebar a scrum and a chance of another score. This resulted in a penalty for offside which was taken quickly and the ball fed to Eugene Butterworth who burst through the Galwegians defence and offloaded to Tadhg Kirby who touched down under the posts. Richie Feeney converted to leave the halftime score 12 - 5 to Castlebar.
The second half was as intense as the first. For Castlebar Ger Prendergast, David Staunton and Paddy Flannelly were putting in great performances while Jason Keane was working well and combined well with the resurgent Christy Cusack at scrum half. Their good work released Eugene Butterworth for Castlebar’s third try when the powerful South African touched down under the posts. Fullback Richie Feeney again converted. Castlebar were now looking for the fourth try and bonus point but the Galwegians effort did not wane and when Daire Mulgrew made a great break everyone thought it had come but for great tackling from Lloyd Cole and Terry O’Donnell who kept him out. The game ended Castlebar 19 Galwegians 5.
Castlebar :- Richie Feeney, Fintan Casey, Tadhg Kirby, Mark Staunton, Chris Rogan, Jason Keane, Chris Cusack, Eugene Butterworth, Paddy Durcan, Liam Molloy, Rory Hughes, Alex Goor, Paddy Flannelly, Ger Prendergast, David Staunton .Subs Simon O’Malley, Daire Mulgrew, Brian Flannery.
Galwagians :- Ciaran O’Beirne, Martin Mulkerring, Terry O’Donnell, Lloyd Cole, John Corcoran, Ross Shaughnessy, Ben Draper, Colin Flannery, Ross Fitzgerald, Doran McHugh, Spencer Perkins, Dave Rogers, Tom Quinn, Liam Griffin, Alex O’Sullivan, Subs :- Paddy O’Malley, Denis McCarthy, Eamonn Molloy.
Castlebar will be away to Creggs next week in a round 7 refixture at 2.30.
MAYO CUP FINAL
CASTLEBAR 0 - BALLYHAUNIS 8
Castlebar played Ballyhaunis in the final of the Mayo Cup in Cloondeash on Sunday November 16th .This competition is confined to Mayo Junior sides. The conditions during this match were mild, wet and overcast with a westerly breeze to contend with. Ballyhaunis arrived intent on having a successful afternoon and worked hard to achieve their aim. Castlebar fielded a mixed team of experience and youth which failed to dent the enthusiastic Ballyhaunis mens ambition on the day.
The first half was an intense affair with play moving from end to end. Defence play from both teams was excellent. Gavin O’sullivan and Cathal O’Caoibhin worked hard for Castlebar in defence. The deadlock was broken when Ballyhaunis scored a fine try from a maul after a line out. Paddy Gallagher touched down for Ballyhaunis but the conversion was missed. Vinny Moran and Mick Macken were excellent for Ballyhaunis during this period. The half ended Ballyhaunis 5 Castlebar 0.
The second half continued as intensely as the first with little yielded by either side. Handling errors on the Castlebar side spoiled chances to get back in the game. Ballyhaunis sealed the issue when they were awarded a penalty for handling in the ruck. Ballyhaunis tagged on their second score and the only score of the second half when Ian Cunnane slotted over the penalty. The Castlebar pack responded well and put Ballyhaunis under severe pressure. Vigorous efforts from Ciaran Flynn and Richard Feeney however failed to breach the Ballyhaunis line. The game ended Ballyhaunis 8 Castlebar 0.
Castlebar :- Richie Feeney, Paul Yuen, Paraic Healy, Ciaran Flynn, Sean Faulkner, Ronan Conway, Paudie O’Malley, Gavin Sullivan, Paddy Flannelly, Cathal O’Caoibhin, Damien Glackin, Seamus Devanney, Frank Hobbs, Martin Gill, Brian Flannery, . Subs :- Paul heverin, Fintan Casey.
Ballyhaunis :- Martin finnegan, Seamus Horan, Ian Cunnane, Brendan Collery, Robert Duff, Declan Warde, Christy Gallagher, Ciaran Costello, Paddy Gallagher, O. Jordan, Vinny Moran, Mick Macken, David Lilly, Robert Morley, Noel Kelly. Subs :- G. Delaney, D. Hannon, D. Gallagher, D. Murphy.
CONNACHT J1A LEAGUE 02/11/08
CASTLEBAR 15 LOUGHREA 3
Castlebar played Loughrea in Cloondeash on Sunday afternoon in round 6 of the Connacht J1 League. This was an ideal day for rugby with the recent dry weather giving ideal conditions with only a light soutwesterly breeze to contend with. Castlebar playing without regular outhalf Robbie Cusack were attempting to salvage their season having recently had a series of poor results and being docked a point by the Connacht Branch. Loughrea arrived having been promoted last year and awaiting their first League win of the season. The game however turned out to be a scrappy affair not helped by the lack of power, guile and penetrative running from the visitors who struggled throughout to get to the pace of the game.
Loughrea started brightly enough and in the opening minutes had Castlebar under all sorts of pressure. This yielded a penalty near the 10 metre line which Greg Glynn was short with. Castlebar replied with a good break, yielding a penalty for a handling error which Jason Keane was unlucky with. There followed from the kick off 10 minutes of Loughrea pressure and even though they were camped in the Castlebar 22 they were unable open the scoring. Castlebar defended steadfastly and when the opportunity presented itself they broke up field and into the 22 on the left hand side. Christy Cusack cleared the ball from the base of a ruck to Jason Keane whose inspired kick put Mark Staunton through for a touch down in the other corner with Loughreas cover absent. Jason however failed with the conversion. Loughrea came upfield from the restart and were reorganising themselves well and putting pressure on Castlebar but failing to get within scoring distance when a handling error resulted in a penalty for them. When Greg Glynn converted they looked to be back in the game but failed to make use of the possession they got. Castlebar turned the screw as half time approached and found themselves again in Loughreas 22 with a scrum to build from. Christy Cusack cleared to Jason Keane who set up Nigel Byrne on the break. Nigel rode three attempted tackles to touch down for the second Castlebar try. The half time whistle sounded with the score 10 - 3 to Castlebar.
The second half was an error ridden affair and did not do justice to the fine conditions prevailing. The visitors offered little and midfield penalties were common in spite of good work from Loughreas Mark Mullins and TJ Lowrey. Castlebar were rarely pressurised or stretched. For Castlebar Ger Prendergast and Paddy Flannelly were outstanding while Jason Keane bossed the game well when it opened up. The second row of Alex Goor and Rory Hughes however got through an enormous amount of graft and their power was evident in every scrum. The only score of the half again involved Jason Keane who set up Eugene Butterworth for a powerful run into the 22 and a touch down near the posts. The conversion however vered wide. The game ended Castlebar 15 Loughrea 3.
Castlebar :- Fintan Casey, Nigel Byrne, Tadhg Kirby, Mark Staunton, Chris Rogan, Jason Keane, Chris Cusack, Liam Molloy, Paddy Durcan, Eugene Butterworth, Rory Hughes, Alex Goor, Paddy Flannelly, Ger Prendergast, David Staunton .Subs Simon O’Malley, Daire Mulgrew, Brian Flannery.
Loughrea :- James O’Dea, Alan Flynn, Paul Wilson, Raymond Cullinane, T.J. Lowrey, David O’Loughlin, Greg Glynn, Pat Mullins, Alan Wade, Pat Lyons, William Cullinane, Seamus Clancy, Peter Fallon, Brian Ryan, Mark Mullins. Subs Michael Larkin, Sean Naughton, Brian Murphy.
Castlebar will be away to Creggs next week in round 7 of the J1 League.
CONNACHT J1A LEAGUE 19/10/08
CASTLEBAR 16 SLIGO 20
Castlebar played Sligo in Cloonseash on Sunday afternoon in round 5 of the Connacht J1 League. This was not an ideal day for rugby with heavy rainfall in the morning and a swirling crosswind from the southwest to contend with. Castlebar were attempting to get their league campaign back on track having lost to Boys Club last week. Sligo sporting many new faces this year are top the league and unbeaten so far this season. This was indeed a big ask for the Castlebarmen.
Castlebar started brightly and attacked from the kickoff. A handling error gave a tricky penalty chance to Robbie Cusack left of goals and outside the 22. He opened the scoring and gave Castlebar the early lead they needed. Sligo began to play and when fullback Mick Reynolds made a fine break the backs ran well to allow scrumhalf Billy Leahy touch down in the corner for their first try. Paddy Pearson however was unsuccessful with the conversion. Castlebar responded well and forced Sligo well back into their own half. This resulted in another penalty for Caslebar taken by Robbie Cusack. This one came off the post and in the loose play that followed Castlebar were awarded another which Robbie this time converted. Castlebar maintained the pressure and the game was now largely being played in the Sligo half. In loose play Nigel Byrne gathered the ball and having broken the line touched down under the posts for Castlebars only try. Robbie converted but Sligo improved again and forced a penalty of their own for a handling error in front of the Castlebar posts which Paddy Pearson converted to leave the half time score Castlebar 13 Sligo 8.
Castlebar started the second half strongly attempting to get the try which would surely put this match beyond Sligo. Their reward however was a penalty which Cusack converted despite the tricky wind to extend the Castlebar lead. Sligo however were upping their game and great work from the likes of Taurerea and Foley complemented the good work being done by the forwards in the loose. Paddy Pearson was put through for a fine try after a period of sustained pressure which he converted to leave the minimum between the teams. It then appeared as the game went into the last quarter that the next team to have a major score would be successful and so it happened. With Castlebar visibly tiring the Sligo pack at last got on top to push over in the corner where Cathal Culhane touched down. Pearson was unsuccessful with the conversion. Castlebar brought on Daire Mulgrew and Brian Flannery to freshen up the forwards but in spite of this they failed to cross the Sligo line before the final whistle. The game ended Castlebar 16 Sligo 20.
Castlebar :- Ronan Conway, Chris Rogan, Nigel Byrne, Mark Staunton, Fintan Casey, Robbie Cusack, Chris Cusack, Liam Molloy, Paddy Durcan, Eugene Butterworth, Rory Hughes, Alex Goor, Paddy Flannelly, Ger Prendergast, David Staunton .Subs Simon O’Malley, Daire Mulgrew, Brian Flannery.
Sligo :- Mick Reynolds, Andrew Feeney, Ardrea Tourarea, Gavin Foley, Ted Mulvanney, Paddy Pearson, Billy Leahy, Adrian McHale, Ross Mannion, Martin Feeney, Jamie Rowes, Peter Mullan, Joe Sweeney, Cathal Culhane, Matalele Fafita. Subs Ross O’Boyle, Trevor Sweeney, Andrew Williams.
There is no game next week and Castlebar will play Loughrea in Cloondeash on Sunday 2nd November.
CONNACHT J2 LEAGUE 19/10/08
CASTLEBAR 45 - WESTPORT 0
Castlebar seconds played Westport in Corrowholly at 13.00 on Sunday in the J2 league. The conditions during this match were quite terrible with rain and strong winds throughout. This was the third team for Westport and the livelier Castlebar team brought off another one sided win. They scored seven tries in all, two each from Ciaran Flynn and Paraic Healy who again were outstanding for Castlebar. Sean Faulkner, Gavin Sullivan and Jason Keane had one each. Paraic Healy converted four and Ciaran Flynn one. None of this would have been possible without great work from the forwards where Seamus Devanney was outstanding for the winners.
Castlebar :- Richie Feeney, Sean Faulkner, Paraic Healy, Ciaran Flynn, Paul Yuen , Jason Keane, Paudie O’Malley, , Declan Hughes, Paddy Durcan, Alan Gavin, Seamus Devanney, Damien Glackin, Cathal O’Caoibhin, Tadhg Kirby, Gavin Sullivan. Subs :-M. Moran, M. Gill, J. Hunter, T.Murphy.
CONNACHT J1A LEAGUE 12/10/08
OUR LADYS BOYS CLUB 15 CASTLEBAR 5
Castlebar played Boys Club at the Sportsground on Sunday October 12th . Castlebar were unbeaten so far this season and had beaten Boys Club twice last year and expected a good result again. Boys Club however were in no mood to oblige this time and presented stern opposition with their pack in especially good form. Castlebars only chance of scoring fell to Robbie Cusack who was unlucky with his penalty attempt. Boys Club lead 5 – 0 at half time.
Castlebar responded well as the second half resumed. Good work from Robbie Cusack who made a break and kicked ahead for his winger Fintan Casey who gathered to go over for a fine try. Boys Club ground their way back and added two more tries in a powerful display. Boys Club centre Dave Prior scored all of their tries. Unusually no try was converted on the day.
The game finished 15 – 5 to Boys Club
Castlebar from :- Ronan Conway, Fintan Casey, Nigel Byrne, Mark Staunton, Enda Murphy, Robbie Cusack, Chris Cusack, Brian Flannery, Neil Coyle, Eugene Butterworth, Rory Hughes, Alex Goor, Paddy Flannelly, Ger Prendergast, David Staunton .Sub Simon O’malley for Nigel Byrne
Castlebar will need a much improved performance next Sunday when they entertain Sligo at Cloondeash.
GOOD START FOR CASTLEBAR SECONDS IN LEAGUE 12/10/08
CASTLEBAR 22 - CORRIB 0
Castlebar seconds played Corrib seconds in the first round of the League on Sunday 12th October at Cloondeash. This was an enjoyable game with some very good and entertaining rugby to complement the beautiful day. Corrib travelled with a mixture of youth and experience. They were well marshalled and encouraged by Joe Murphy but even his enthusiasm could not help on this occasion. It was Castlebar however who prevailed with patient and persistent work from the forwards and strong running and tackling from the backs.
Castlebar opened the scoring after 5 minutes when Paraic Healy went over in the corner after loose ball became available which was quickly moved to the wing. Jason Keane however was unfortunate with the conversion attempt. Corrib worked hard to get back in the game and after a period of strong forward play were rewarded with a penalty near the 10 metre line. Declan Lee was unfortunate not to convert. Castlebar went back on the attack and but for poor handling would have touched down once more if Gavin Sullivan had held on. The Half Time score was Castlebar 5 Corrib 0.
Castlebar were much more composed in the second half and the passes began to come off and the errors reduced considerably. The pack were stronger in the set piece with Alan Gavin and Kevin Cox excellent and the half back combination of Paudie O’Malley and Jason Keane gelled much better. Sean Faulkner was excellent at full back. Gavin Sullivan was rewarded with a fine try when he broke off the side of a ruck and with typical strong running made the line to touch down. Paraic Healy was successful with the conversion. Castlebar kept the pressure up from the kick off and pounded the Corrib line for several minutes. They were awarded a penalty outside the 22 which Paraic Healy again converted. The game was slipping from Corrib now but with typical determination they hauled themselved back into the Castlebar half where they once again won a penalty. Declan Lee was again unsuccessful. The game was now in the last quarter when Castlebar again broke upfield. Jason Keane was now controlling affairs and kicked a fine effort into the corner for a 5 metre lineout. Castlebar won the ball and Paul Yeun gathered to touch down unopposed under the posts. Healy obliged with the conversion to leave Castlebar ahead 22 - 0 at the final whistle.
Castlebar play Westport away next Sunday.
Castlebar :- Sean Faulkner, JJ Ormsby, Paraic Healy, David Flannelly, Paul Yuen , Jason Keane, Paudie O’Malley, , Declan Hughes, Paddy Durcan, Kevin Cox, Alan Gavin, Damien Glackin, Conor Byrne, Cathal O’Caoibhin, Gavin Sullivan. Subs :-Seamus Devanney , and Mike Moran
Corrib :- Barry McCabe, David Joyce, Brendan Murphy, Declan Lee, Padraig Kennedy, James Gavin, Rory Glynn, David Fahy, David Lee, Padraig Moran, Cathal Cawley, Paul Mearns, David O’Connor, Joe Murphy, Mike Conroy. Sub Colin Lee
CONNACHT JUNIOR LEAGUE DIVSION 1A 05/10/08
BALLINA 12 CASTLEBAR 14
Castlebar travelled to Ballina for the third round of the league, and conditions could not have being better at Creggs Road. This was always going to be a close contest with the two Mayo sides unbeaten so far in the league. Castlebar opened the scoring early with two penalties from the boot of outhalf Robbie Cusack. Ballina replied converting a penalty midway through the first half and drew level on the half hour mark.
Both teams were evenly matched both in the forwards and in the backs and every ball was contested fiercely in an extremely physical encounter highlighted by the number of cards produced throughout the game with both sides reduced to 14 men for ten minute periods in each half.
At the half time whistle both sides where level. It was Ballina who drew first blood in the second half adding to their two earlier penalties with a third to pull 3 points ahead of the visitors and shortly after extended that lead to 6 points with another penalty to bring the score line to 12 – 6 in the homeside’s favour. Strong running from Castlebar forwards Eugene Butterworth and Alex Goor helped the visitors get back up the pitch. Cusack was again on target converting a penalty to bring his side within 3 points. Close to the hour mark saw the only try of the contest, a clearance kick from Castlebar winger Chris Rogan bounced fortunately for the oncoming Castlebar centre Enda Murphy, Murphy collected just inside the Ballina half before starting off on a fine individual run which saw him bet 4 Ballina defenders and bring play deep into the Ballina 22 before the defence finally caught up with the number 12 who was able to offload to openside flanker Paddy Flannelly. Castlebar now had the defence outnumbered and Flannelly showed his experience to draw in the two remaining defenders before passing out to outhalf Cusack who had a clear run over the line to touch down and give his side a two point lead. The scoreline now at 14 – 12 to the visitors it remained unchanged until the final whistle was blown. The last 15 minutes being a very tense affair with both sides giving it their all to hold on to their own unbeaten run. Tensions were high and again cards were shown to both sides. Both sides had unsuccessful attempts at goal before the 80 minutes elapsed.
Castlebar travel to the Sportsground next Sunday to take on Our Lady’s Boys Club in Round 4. Kick off in Galway is at 3 p.m.
Castlebar: Fintan Casey, Nigel Byrne, Enda Murphy, Simon O’Malley, Chris Rogan; Christy Cusack, Robbie Cusack; Brian Flannery, Neil Coyle, Eugene Butterworth, Alex Goor, Ruairi Hughes, Ger Prendergast, Paddy Flannelly, David Stauntons. Replacements: Liam Molloy, Daire Mulgrew, Ronan Conway.
Connacht J1 League 28/09/2008
CASTLEBAR 18 - MONIVEA 14
Castlebar played host to Monivea in round 2 of the league at Cloondeash on Sunday 28th September. Monivea overpowered Castlebar in the corresponding fixture last year in Monivea, but a lot of water has gone under the bridge since then for both teams. On a cool blustery day in Castlebar these teams served up a hugely intense match whose outcome was in doubt right up to the final whistle.
Castlebar struck right from the kick off when Christy Cusack blocked down the Monivea clearance to gather and touch down in the corner. Robert Cusack was on hand to convert from near the touch line giving Castlebar a 7-0 lead from the start. Monivea moved upfield with purpose and put Castlebar in all sorts of trouble but great work from Eugene Butterworth and Alex Goor held them at bay. Monivea were awarded a penalty for an infringement just inside the Castlebar half which was converted by Gerard O’Connor keeping Monivea in touch. They continued their assault on the Castlebar line and were rewarded after a fine forward push when Patrick Devane touched down for a well earned try. However O’Connor failed in his attempt to convert. Castlebar responded well and were making good progress when the half time whistle blew leaving Monivea ahead 8 – 7.
The second half was a very intense affair. Penalties were awarded frequently for infringements at the scrum and at the breakdown by referee Dave O’Brien. It looked as if Castlebar would rue the missed penalties and the drop kick from Paul Coady, which went wide off the upright. Fergal O’Neill was making incisive runs and gaining good ground but the Castlebar defence stood solid. Gerard O’Connor put daylight between the teams when he added 3 points to the Monivea total but within 2 minutes Robbie Cusack brought the margin back to the minimum. When O’Connor hit back with another the hill seemed very steep for Castlebar. The move of the game however was just about to be unleashed as Nigel Byrne gathered a Monivea clearance on his own 22 and decided to have a go. He took the ball with strength and speed through the Monivea defence to touch down in the corner for a fine individual try. Castlebar had crucially retrieved the lead and even though Robbie Cusack failed to convert for the first time Castlebar believed they could win this one. A period of huge Monivea pressure from the forwards of which Shane McHugh and William Parker were excellent followed but Castlebar withstood it with increasing belief and huge work from the forwards where Rory Hughes , Paddy Flannelly, David Staunton and Ger Prendergast, who were inspired. Monivea began to tire and Castlebar moved upfield and out of danger having defended their one point lead gallantly. A Monivea infringement in midfield as the game moved into injury time gave Robbie Cusack the chance to extend the lead and with a fine effort he did just that. There were in excess of six minutes of injury time added but try as they may Monivea were unable to haul back Castlebar who finished 18 – 14 ahead at the final whistle.
Castlebar from :- Fintan Casey, Nigel Byrne, Paul Coady, Enda Murphy, Chris Rogan, Robbie Cusack, Chris Cusack, Brian Flannery, Neil Coyle, Eugene Butterworth, Rory Hughes, Alex Goor, Paddy Flannelly, Ger Prendergast, David Staunton Subs :- Simon O’Malley for Nigel Byrne,
Monivea :- Gerard Divilly, Richie Murray, Michael Concarr, Felim Cloonan, Fergal O’Neill, Gerard O’Connor, Darren Blade, Gerard Fitzmaurice, Patrick Devane, Fergus Farrell, William Parker, Shane McHugh, Martin King, Eoin Rooney, Sub :- Noel Burke for Ger Fitzmaurice.
Connacht J1 League 21/08/08
CASTLEBAR 9 - TUAM 9
Castlebar played host to Tuam in the first round of the league at Cloondeash on Sunday 20th September. Both sides tied 12 points each in Tuam last year and after a full blooded contest they drew again this year. Tuam started brightly and held their own with a smaller and more mobile pack than Castlebar. It was a measure of how well they played when Castlebar failed to threaten the Tuam line once in the first half. That said Castlebar defended well even though they were playing into a stiff breeze. Robbie Cusack was on hand to open the scoring with a well struck penalty 30 metres out on the left wing after a Tuam infringement. Tuam responded well with honest and graft and forced three penalties themselves two of which Eoin Cosgrove converted. This left Tuam ahead at half time 6 – 3
The second half was played at a much higher tempo with Castlebar going all out for the win. Paddy Flannelly crossed the line only to be denied as Robbie Cusack put a foot in touch as he laid the ball off. Robbie levelled the game in the 75th minute with a well taken penalty but Castlebar must have felt it was going away from them when Tuam regained the lead on the 78th minute after Killian McDonagh score from near the touch line 40 metres out. Sustained pressure from Castlebar brought an infringement which allowed Robbie Cusack a pressure kick to draw the match. He struck his kick well and it had a bit to spare in spite of the tricky breeze. The final score was Castlebar 9 Tuam 9
Castlebar from :- Paul Coady, Chris Rogan, Nigel Byrne, Mark Staunton, Ciaran Flynn, Robbie Cusack, Chris Cusack, Liam Molloy, Neil Coyle, Brian Flannery, Rory Hughes, Alex Goor, Paddy Flannelly, Ger Prendergast, Enda Murphy, Subs :- David Staunton for Enda Murphy, Simon O’Malley for Mark Staunton.
Ballina :- Jamie Murphy, Dave Burke, Killian McDonagh, Jimmy Maughan, Stephen Burke, Eoin Cosgrove, Robbie Kavanaugh, Niall Higgins, Mike Warde, Stephen Kavanagh, Declan Slattery, Joe Kelly, Brian Ruane, Kieran Durand, Johnny Tierney. Sub Gearoid Connolly for Joe Kelly.
Mayo Cup 20/08/08
CASTLEBAR 27 - BALLINA 15
Castlebar seconds played Ballina seconds in the County Cup at Cloondeash on Saturday 20th September. This was an evenly matched game with some very good and entertaining rugby to complement the beautiful day. It was Castlebar however who prevailed thanks in no small way to the skill of Ronan Conway and the excellence of Paraic Healy both returning for their first match of the season.
Castlebar opened the scoring after 15 minutes when Ronan Conway went ove after a period of sustained forward pressure. However he failed in his conversion attempt. Paraic Healy scored the second five minutes later after good work from Gavin Sullivan who passed to Ronan Conway who popped the ball up for the inrushing Healy. This time Ronan Conway was successful with the conversion. Ballina were not wilting however and after sustained forward pressure Arthur West went over in the corner to open Ballina’s account. Rory Collins however missed the conversion. They kept this pressure up and would have scored again but for a try saving tackle from Fintan Casey who put Des Howley into touch. The half time score was Castlebar 12 Ballina 5
Ballina started the second half brightly and were rewarded when David Lynn broke upfield to score an excellent try. Rory Collins was again unsuccessful with the conversion. Mark Healy put Castlebar in all sorts of trouble with strong running from midfield into the Castlebar 22. Castlebar responded well and Ronan Conway scored an excellent penalty after a Ballina infringement. The try of the game followed when Paraic Healy broke from his own 22 with Castlebar under pressure to touch down under the posts. Ronan Conway converted. Ballina were not finished and after a fine attack Rory Collins touched down in the corner. He failed however to convert. Paraic Healy added his third and the final score of the game when he touched down in the corner after strong running for the backline. The game finished Castlebar 27 Ballina 15.
Castlebar :- Richie Feeney, Brian Fox, Stephen Cusack, Paraic Healy, John Joe Ormsby, Ronan Conway, Paudie O’Malley, Mike Moran, Paddy Durcan, Frank Hobbs, Alan Gavin, Damien Glackin, Fintan Casey, Cathal O’Caoibhin, Gavin Sullivan. Subs :-Seamus Devanney for Alan Gavin and Paul Yuen for J.J.Ormsby
Ballina :- Patrich Lacken, Des Howley, Rory Collins, Stephen Lacken, Morgan Foley, David Lynn, Robert Melody, Brian Dunleavy, Kenneth Forde, James O’Connor, James Cawley, Mark Healy, Judd Ruane, Arthur West, Greg Culkeen.
BOURKE CUP
CASTLEBAR 60 - CAVAN 0
Castlebar played Cavan in the Bourke Cup at Cloondeash on Saturday 13th September.
This was not the kind of game Castlebar needed within a week of the league starting. The opposition never mounted a real challenge and added to their recent poor results. The game was played in damp mild conditions with a light breeze to contend with. Cavan travelled with a mixture of first and second team players. Castlebar started in whirlwind fashion with a penalty two tries score within 15 minutes. Robbie Cusack assumed kicking duties on the day and Ciaran Flynn had the first try after a fine passing movement. Liam Molloy added another within minutes to effectively end the game as a contest. Enda Murphy scored a great individual try when he got posession in his own 22 and broke away for an 80 metre dash to the line. Chris Rogan added the fourth of the half to leave Castlebar 19-0 up at half time.
Castlebar made several changes after half time. This however did not affect their dominance as Cavan had wilted by now. Castlebar added five more tries, of which four were converted by Robbie Cusack. Paddy Flannelly went over having received the ball from Kevin Cox in an excellent forwards move. Chris Rogan was in again in the corner after Robbie Cusack split the defence with fine kick ahead. Alex Goor went over twice under the posts having made huge ground with assured forward play. Nigel Byrne got a well deserved touch down when he avoided the tackle and broke for a 40 metre dash. This left the game Castlebar 60 Corrib 0.
Castlebar from :- Liam Molloy, Mark Staunton, Paul Coady, Dara Mulgrew, Ger Prendergast, Nigel Byrne, Christy Cusack, Rory Hughes, Ciaran Flynn, Neil Coyle, Enda Murphy, Chris Rogan, Alex Goor, Paddy Durcan, David Staunton, Danny McGing, Paul Yoen, Simon O’Malley, Fintan Casey, Tadhg Kirby, Kevin Cox, damien Glackin,Brian Fox, Damien McLoughlin, Jason Keane.Next Game
Castlebar play Tuam next Sunday in the first round of the Connacht Junior A League. The form in recent weeks has been excellent and a good show is expected against a Tuam side that Castlebar could only draw with last season. The game kicks off at 3.00pm
CASTLEBAR 34 - CORRIB 5 (05/09/2008)
Castlebar played Corrib in Cloondeash on Friday night 5th September. The biggest factor on the evening was the gale force winds and torrential rain which threatened to ruin the game. Castlebar however had other ideas and produced great open moves bringing all parts of the team into play. Corrib travelled with a mixture of young and experienced players who struggled to gel on the night and found themselves in all sorts of trouble as the game developed. There is no doubt that we will see a different Corrib team before the season is out.
Castlebar started strongly and laid out their stall as they put their less organised opponents under pressure from the start. The strength of the Castlebar scrum allowed good ball time and again to be fed to the back division and after only 12 minutes David Staunton crossed for the first of six tries. Paul Coady obliged with a difficult conversion from the left in spite of the strong wind. Poor handling shortly afterwards allowed Enda Murphy break upfield and touched down after a sixty metre sprint. The wind this time spoiled the conversion attempt. Castlebar were well on top at this stage as Corrib struggled to put a shape on their game. Ciaran Flynn added another try after the best passing move of the game allowed him to touch down in the corner. Mark Staunton added another before half time. Neither of these was converted. The half time score was Castlebar 22 Corrib 0
Both sides made several changes after half time. Castlebar were now playing into the teeth of a fierce gale with sheets of rain impairing visibility and threatening to spoil the game. They started with purpose and continued to move the ball about when a Munster style possession game seemed wisest. Corrib played much better with the wind but were again caught by poor handling and a fine upfield break saw Chris Rogan touch down in the corner for Castlebar. Paul Coady converted with a great attempt. Corrib were now throwing everything at the game and poor move by Castlebar saw Corrib break and although they did not make the line they scored from their five metre scrum in the corner. Castlebar kept working and when prop Liam Molloy got the ball in hand with space in front of him nothing was going to stop him and he touched down Castlebar’s sixth try under the posts. Paul Coady again obliged with the two pointer
The game ended Castlebar 34 Corrib 5.
Castlebar from :- Liam Molloy, Mark Staunton, Paul Coady, Dara Mulgrew, Ger Prendergast, Nigel Byrne, Christy Cusack, Rory Hughes, Ciaran Flynn, Neil Coyle, Enda Murphy, Chris Rogan, Alex Goor, Paddy Durcan, David Staunton, Danny McGing, Paul Yoen, Simon O’Malley, Fintan Casey, Tadhg Kirby, Kevin Cox, Damien McLoughlin, Jason Keane.
Next Game
Castlebar play Cavan next Saturday afternoon in Cloondeash in the Larry Burke Cup. This cup commemorates Larry Burke of Springfield a member of a long established Castlebar family who played for Cavan. He worked in the Inland Fisheries in Cavan and after his untimely death this competition was launched in his memory and is played alternatively each year in Cavan and Castlebar as a pre season fixture. Larry’s son also named Larry still plays for Cavan and a large crowd is expected in Cloondeash for this fixture. Kick off is a 3p.m.
CASTLEBAR 22 - OMAGH 5 (30/08/2008)
Castlebar played Omagh in Cloondeash on Saturday 30th August.
The visitors travelled down that morning and brought a young and experimental side. The day was ideal with only a light breeze from the South to influence matters. As a result a fast open game was played using all areas of the pitch which allowing the backs to stretch their legs. Both sides had a chance to vary their game and excellent refereeing from Branch Ref Peter McCarthy helped adapt to the new rule changes.
Castlebar started very strongly as their opposition settled and had their first try after 10 minutes from Paul Coady who was fed by Christy Cusack from the base of the scrum. Coady also converted. The lineout for Castlebar worked well and possession was won there on the Omagh ball several times thanks to good work from Paddy Flannelly and Ger Prendergast.. Omagh rose their game considerably and put Castlebar under all sorts of pressure. Mark Staunton and Nigel Byrne were very strong in the centre and made several fine tackles and breaks. Their handling skills however let Omagh down and they conceded three penalties before half time one of which Paul Coady converted.
The half time score was Castlebar 10 Omagh 0
Both sides made several changes at half time but this did not affect the Castlebar dominance on the day. In a set piece move Liam Molloy received the ball at second centre and used his power and speed to touch down after 5 minutes. Paul Coady was again on hand to convert. On fifteen minutes Mark Staunton latched on to a loose ball after an Omagh error to win the race for the line and touch down a third try for Castlebar adding a further five points as the conversion was missed. Both sides were guilty of poor handling and lots of work is needed on the training pitch if Castlebar are to pose a serious threat in this years league. A long and persistent period of pressure paid off for Omagh in the final few minutes when they touched down in the corner after strong work from their forwards. There was no conversion however.
The game ended Castlebar 22 Omagh 5.
Castlebar from :- Nigel Byrne, Ciaran Flynn, Liam Molloy, Brian Flannery, Mark Staunton, Paul Coady, Dara Mulgrew, Paddy Flannelly, Ger Prendergast, Christy Cusack, Rory Hughes, Neil Coyle, Enda Murphy, Chris Rogan, Alex Goor, Paddy Durcan, David Staunton, Simon O’Malley, Fintan Casey.
Next Game
Castlebar play Corrib next Sunday afternoon in Cloondeash in another friendly.
The first league game of the season is against Tuam in Cloondeash on September 21st.
Training
Training for the new season continues at Cloondeash on Tuesday and Friday evenings at 7.30pm. Any new or returning players interested in joining the squad should contact Rory on 0872860235.
CASTLEBAR 3 - PORTLAOISE 7
Castlebar played Portlaoise in Cloondeash on Saturday 23rd August 2008.
This friendly fixture was used by both sides to familiarise themselves with the rule changes coming in this season. The wet and blustery weather prevented an open game and as a result the forwards were the busier on the day.
Castlebar started the stronger and moved the ball well. Second row debutante Dara Mulgrew is very mobile and fitted in well with the vastly experienced team captain Rory Hughes. The front row of Brian Flannery, Neil Coyle and Liam Molloy worked hard against a bigger and more experienced Portlaoise outfit. Enda Murphy was over the line to touch down only to be brought back for a forward pass. The half time score was nil all.
The second half was more open with several positional changes made by both sides. Castlebar opened the scoring with a well taken penalty from Paul Coady. This was scant enough reward for a sustained period of pressure. Poor handling allowed Portlaoise to break upfield where the only try of the game was scored by their stronger forwards. It was then duly converted. Despite playing the final ten minutes of the game in the Portlaoise half and again crossing the line Castlebar failed to score and the game finished 7 – 3 to Portlaoise.
Castlebar face Omagh next Saturday afternoon in Cloondeash in another friendly. The first league game of the season is against Tuam in Cloondeash on September 21st.
Training for the new season continues at Cloondeash on Tuesday and Friday evenings at 7.30pm. Any new or returning players interested in joining should contact Rory on 0872860235.
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