UNDER 13: Training will be on Thursday evenings at 7 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. commencing on Thursday, September 15th. Registration will take place on Thursday, September 15th commencing at 6:30. Download Registration Form from club website www.castlebarrfc.com , complete, sign and bring in with fee on Thursday evening. Under 13s are those born in 1999.
UNDER 14: Training will be on Tuesday evenings at 7 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. commencing on Thursday, September 13th . Registration will take place on Tuesday evening September 13th commencing at 6:45 p.m. Download Registration Forms from Club website www.castlebarrfc.com , complete, sign and bring in with fee on Thursday evening. Under 14s are those born in 1998.
UNDER 15: Training will be on Tuesday evenings at 7 p.m. until 9 p.m. commencing on Tuesday, September 13th. Registration will take place on Tuesday, September 15th commencing at 7 p.m. Download Registration Form from club website www.castlebarrfc.com , complete, sign and bring in with fee on Tuesday evening. Under 15s are those born in 1997.
UNDER 17: Training will be on Thursday evenings at 5:30 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. commencing on Thursday September 15th . Registration will take place on Thursday evening September 15th commencing at 5:30 p.m. Download Registration Forms from Club website www.castlebarrfc.com , complete, sign and bring in with fee on Thursday evening. Under 17s are those born in 1996 and 1995.
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U14 North Division League (30/01/2011)
Castlebar 27- Ballina 7
Castlebar hosted Ballina in what was a thrilling game to decide second place in the North Division and to secure a position in the play-offs for the league title.
Needing to win by 11 points Castlebar started the game well and were 3-0 up after 5 minutes thanks to a Paul Walsh penalty.
However Ballina came back very strongly and an excellent try after good work by the pack. They moved the ball well and their centre scored under the posts. The conversion made it 7-3 to the visitors.
Castlebar upped the game tempo and kept Ballina pinned in their own half for the rest of the first half. The pressure paid off with two well worked tries from outstanding centre Paul Walsh and captain Sam Hastings. Walsh failed to convert either so Castlebar in leading 13-7 at the half time whistle.
Castlebar started as they finished the first half with the excellent second row Conor Quinn picking from a ruck and running in from 30m out to score under the posts.
Ballina were well in the game but brilliant defence from the Castlebar fifteen kept them from scoring.
Castlebar were the better side and moved the ball well at every opportunity. Their number eight Sam Hastings caught Ballina cold. From a penalty on halfway he took it quickly and breaking three tackles scored under the posts to seal a deserved win.
They now wait to see who they meet in the play-offs in a week’s time.
U17 Division 2 League Semifinal
Castlebar 46 - Loughrea 0
Division 2 leaders Castlebar registered a decisive win against Loughrea in the Division 2 semifinal in a one sided contest to secure their position in the U17 Division 2 League final.
Loughrea kicked off this game with the downhill advantage and against a slight breeze. Cian Gibbons caught the ball and set up the attack bringing the game within reach of Loughrea’s try line where a scrum was awarded to Castlebar from which number 8 Eamon Regan broke to score in the corner. Castlebar failed to convert the score and Castlebar went 5-0 up after 10 minutes. Within five minutes after the restart Shane Lyons broke fifty metres and was stopped by a text book tackle within 15 meters of the line setting up camp for Castlebar. Prop forward Simon Staunton broke from the ruck and scored just to the left of the posts bringing the score to 10-0 after fifteen minutes.
The game pretty much continued in this fashion with outhalf Jamie Lydon scoring again within a minute and centre Shane Lyons making a fifty metre break running through several attempted tackles and scoring under the posts. The try was converted by Rory Staunton bringing the score to 22-0 after twenty minutes. The first half finished at this score and judging by Castlebar’ dominance all around the park that they had at this early stage secured their place in the final.
The home team were at this stage were unstoppable and shortly after Loughrea’s restart castlebar’s scrumhalf James Durcan broke from the back of the scrum and offloaded to centre Lyons who went over for his second try which Staunton converted bringing the score to 29-0. Loughrea made strong challenge on Castlebar’s defence and were within five meters of the line with a very clear overlap but a poor pass gave the defending team the opportunity to regain possession and clear their line. Loughrea’s second row made a break through the centre running thirty metres before being stopped by a crushing tackle by hooker Nathan Gibbons fifteen meters from the line and a penalty was awarded to Castlebar for not releasing the ball, once again giving Castlebar the opportunity to relieve the pressure. Castlebar’s number eight Eamonn O’Malley scored his second try and within a couple of minutes Cian Gibbons scored another try both of which were converted by Staunton. The game finished 46-0.
Castlebar will go on to meet Balinrobe, who beat Creggs in the other semifinal, in the final of the Division 2 league to be played in the Sportsground, Galway.
Connacht U14 League (23/01/11)
Castlebar 59 - Westport 7
Castlebar recorded a comprehensive win over close rivals Westport in Castlebar on Sunday. In glorious sunshine they ran in nine tries in their best performance of the season, they will however need to improve their discipline if they are to progress further in the competition.
With the pack laying the foundation from the start they scored a try inside the first five mins. Hard running centre Dylan Cannon scoring from a rehearsed move from twenty five metres out. His centre partner Paul Walsh who was outstanding throughout kicked the first of his six conversions of the day.
The pack continued to dominate for Castlebar and they added further tries from Paul Walsh, Pat Carolan and Sam Hastings before Walsh then scored the try of the match. Castlebar’s excellent fullback Morgan Whitley ran a ball from his own 22 and beat several tackles taking the ball into the Westport Half. From there Castlebar hooker Tommy Keane and second row Bob Hughes continued the move before Castlebar no 8 Sam Hastings broke from the base of the ruck, beat two tackles and chipped over the flat Westport defence. He gathered his kick after a kind bounce and flipped a one handed off load as he was tackled to the supporting Walsh who ran in under the posts for a memorable score. Walsh then added the conversion to extend their lead at half time.
With credit to Westport they came out very strongly in the second half and scored an excellent try after just two minutes of the restart. They added the conversion to make it a seven pointer. Westport continued to build on the early score and only excellent defence from Castlebar, with outhalf Paddy Burke leading the way kept them from adding to the scoreboard. Castlebar prop Conor Carter then put Castlebar on the attack with a series of powerful drives, he was well supported by the rest of the pack and the hard working second row Conor Quinn went over under the posts to register Castlebars first score of the second half. Paul Walsh added the conversion to extend the lead.
Castlebar continued to dominate and two further tries from the Castlebar Captain and man of the match Sam Hastings and sub Tom Mannion gave the game a score line that did not however reflect the hard work put in by the Westport team.
The Castlebar panel is;
Owen Togher, Paddy Burke, Paul Walsh, Morgan Whitley, Eimhen Morrin, Calum Kyne, Dylan Cannon, Dylan Hughes, Tiernan McCann, Dylan Moran, Paul Dolan; Conor Carter, Tommie Keane, Kevin Sweeney, Daragh Dunleavey, Bob Hughes, Conor Quinn, Pat Carolan, Pat Corless, Sam Hastings, Tom Mannion, Martin Gallagher, Dave McHugh,
West Mayo Lion’s great but not enough. (25/02/10)
West Mayo Lions 5 Corrib 8
Castlebar & Westport Rugby clubs are pooling their talent at U19 level to form the West Mayo Lions. Both clubs have experienced a shortage of players in this new youth category.
They played Corrib(Headford) U19’s in Castlebar in the cup on Thursday night. This team are second in the league so far. The going on the pitch was ideal being slightly soft and the weather was mild.
The Lions had the luxury of having three subs for a change and the benefit of two players who are usually playing first team rugby. It took a while for them to settle into a cohesive pattern of play. However evident from the start was great conviction by every player. The tackled and harried the Corrib team at every stage. The first half passed with both teams playing well but the Lion’s were getting on top at half time. Testimony to the quality of the play was the fact that no kickable penalty was awarded to either side.
At half time the R.Sweeney and B.Conlon came on for T.Dever and F.Geraghty. From the team talk at half time by coach M.Bourke the Lions from the restart worked their way into the Corrib 22. After a series of rucks and a scrum which they won against the head, Calum Southgate got over for an unconverted try. This confirmed the Lions form in the game so far. Corrib were inspired by this and put on unrelenting pressure to get a score. The pressure was rewarded with a penalty in front of the posts, which was scored. The Lions were now determined to widen their margin. However Corrib sensing defeat piled on pressure making the best of their extra pack weight and experience to work their way into the Lions 22 area. Despite resolute defending by all of the Lions team , Corrib managed to touch down on the line. This try went unconverted and that finished the scoring. For the remaining 5minutes the Lion’s displayed enormous determination in trying to work their way for a score, however Corrib used all their experience to hold them out.
The Lions are not out of the cup campaign and have next to play Creggs at home in the league.
TEAM :-M.Gallagher, W.Keaney, A.Gibbons, O.OMalley, D.OMalley, E.Gill, D.Togher R.Quinn, E.Morahan, P.Mortimer, T Dever, F.Geraghty, A.Gleeson, C.Southgate, S.Wooton, Subs: R.Sweeney, B.Conlon, R.Molloy
Record Win for Castlebar U13 Rugby Team(21/2/10)
Castlebar U13 – 62 Monivea U13 – 7
Newly Crowned U13 Conference League North Division Champions Castlebar Rugby Team opened their Connaught Cup Campaign with a record score over Galway rivals Monivea at Cloondeash on Sunday last. The game was played in foggy and freezing conditions as a curtain raiser to the senior game against Sligo.
Monivea kicked off but in less than two minutes Castlebar were on the scoreboard with a excellent try by centre Paul Walsh. The same player was unlucky to hit the post with the conversion attempt. Castlebar were camped in Monivea territory for most of this half and after five minutes Sam Hastings crossed the line for the first of his four tries converted by Paul Walsh.
The scoreline now after just five minutes read Castlebar 12 to O for Monivea. Three more tries by Connor Quinn, Kalum Kyne and Pat Corless and the conversion by Paul Walsh left the home side comforting leading at half time by 29 points to nil.
Castlebar kicked off the second half in confident mood and within five minutes were on the scoreboard with another try by Paul Walsh.
Sam Hasting and Robert Hughes then scored two superb individual tries converted by Dylan Cannon and Pat Carolan respectively. In the closing ten minutes Sam Hastings capped a tremendous afternoons work with two more tries one of which was converted by Eimhin Morrin.
Castlebars rucking mauling and tackling were excellent and their scrumaging held up very well. In fact they won at least five against the head which is unusual in the modern game. Monivea were awarded a penalty try in the last few minutes following an infringement by the Castlebar forwards. The game finished on a comfortable scoreline of 62 points to 7 for home side and they now look forward to the next round in two weeks time.
All the players on the panel played extremely well and included the following:-
Jack Heavy Karl Benson Cian O’Halloran
Kalum Kyne Pat Corless Eoin Brown
Eimhin Morrin James Byrne John Dolan
Dylan Cannon Martin Gallagher Cillan Melly
Robert Hughes Patrick Bourke
Bren Allen Tommy Keane
Eoin Togher Dillan Hughes
David Conlan Cormac Walsh
Conor Quinn Brandan Tolan
Paul Walsh Pat Carolan
Sam Hastings James Conway
Conor Carter Tiernan McCann
Connacht U19 League (14/02/2010)
West Mayo Lion’s get to the top of the hill.
Monivea 28 West Mayo Lions 29
Castlebar & Westport Rugby clubs are pooling their talent at U19 level to form the West Mayo Lions. Both clubs have experienced a shortage of players in this new youth category.They played Monivea in Monivea in the league on Sunday. This is Moniveas second u19 team and neither they nor the Lions had won a game in the league so far. The going on the pitch was heavy and partly frozen. The terrain was quite hilly which the team are not familiar with. However the weather was ideal for a delayed kickoff of 2.20.
The Lions piled on pressure from the off but Monivea resisted and scored their first try after 5minutes. The Lions who travelled with just 15 players had some players playing out of position. They found it hard going for the first half as it was hard to gel as a team. Many tackles were missed and Monivea were rewarded with two converted tries. The Lions did manage an unconverted try in the last few minutes of the half by Oisin O Malley
By half time the Lions had found some shape and were playing more cohesively. They started the second half with renewed vigor. However Monivea managed another converted try. The Lions now had their backs against the wall and found a new level of ability and leadership. From the restart with strong running from deep in their half Oisin O Malley weaved his way to the try line for a try, which was converted by Mark Durcan. This inspired another high pace try by William Keaney. Monivea countered at this stage with another converted try to finish their scoring at 28. The Lions now were enjoying their new found confidence and managed to score two more tries by Mark Durcan and Shane Irwin. One of which was converted again by Mark to finish the game leading by one point. Hopefully the winning taste will be remembered next Sunday when they are due to play in the second round of the cup. The away opposition, to be either Corrib or Corinthians. The first round cup game last week was conceded by Sligo who were unable to field.
TEAM :-M.Gallagher, W.Keaney, Sean Conway, O.OMalley, S.Irwin, M.Durcan, D.Togher R.Quinn, E.Morahan, T Dever, F.Geraghty, R.Sweeney, J.Omalley, R.Sweeney. P.Mortimer
Connacht U19 League (31/01/2010)
West Mayo Lion’s resurrection is nearly a winner.
West Mayo Lions 12 Ballina 15
Castlebar & Westport Rugby clubs are pooling their talent at U19 level to form the West Mayo Lions. Both clubs have experienced a shortage of players in this new youth category.
They played Ballina in Ballina in the league on Sunday. The going on the pitch was heavy and it cut up during the game due to a water logged pitch after overnight freezing. However the conditions were ideal if not too sunny for kickoff just after 12.30. The Lions were playing with the sun for the first half.
The Lions piled on pressure from the off and the game was played mostly between the 22’s for the first 10mins. The Lions who have not played a game since early December were unable to find form and found it hard going in the developing mudbath. Ballina were rewarded with their pressure with a converted penalty after 15min of play. After a further 5mins of pressure Ballina scored a try, which went unconverted.
By half time the Lions had found some shape and were playing more cohesively. They started the second half with renewed vigor and were quickly in the Ballina 22, but failed to capitalize on the location. Ballina defended stoutly and worked their way into the Lions half eventually concluding in a converted try. The Lions fate looked sealed at this stage but the battled on. Constantly changing their tact they succeeded in getting quicker phases of back line play. After 20mins it paid off with William Keaney completing a backs move at blistering pace to score a try which went unconverted. This gave them new belief and they rallied to produce another try by Tom Dever in the 30th min. which was converted. At this stage only 3points separated them, which gave new life to both teams. They battled very hard in the mudbath with more commitment than before to gain another score but there wasn’t enough time.
This ended the scoring with Ballina victorious at 15-12.
The game is ideal preparation for the forthcoming cup match against Sligo in Castlebar next Sunday at 12.
TEAM :-M.Gallagher, W.Keaney, C.McGreal ,D.O’Malley, O.OMalley, D.Togher R.Quinn, E.Morahan, A.Bourke, T.Dever, F.Geraghty, A.Gleeson, R.Sweeney, J.OMalley Subs: T.Geraghty, L.OMalley, S.Neuva, P.Mortimer
Castlebar 10 – Sligo 7 (23/01/10)
Good workout for Castlebar U13s
Castlebar U13 Rugby team travelled to Sligo on Sunday for a friendly match in preparation for the Connacht Cup which begins in Mid February. Always a very difficult place to get a victory against physical and well coached teams, Sunday proved no different in a very hard fought and tight game. Sligo with the bigger pack took the game to Castlebar from the KO and they were camped in the Castlebar half for the opening ten mins. Having not played a game since mid Dec showed as Castlebar struggled to get a hold of the game or the ball. The Castlebar defence stood up well though and some excellent work by the Castlebar backrow of Martin Gallagher, Sam Hastings, and Pat Corless prevented Sligo from producing a score.
Castlebar slowly played their way into the game and for the next fifteen minutes upped the tempo and pinned Sligo inside their own 22. Hard work from Bren Allen, Robert Hughes and Sam Hastings meant only excellent defence from the Sligo team stopped Castlebar on the line. It was during a sustained period of pressure however with five mins to half time the deadlock was broken when Castlebar hooker Tommy Keane who had a fine game crashed over the Sligo line after initial drives by Jack Heavy, Pat Corless and Conor Carter were stopped just short. Castlebar’s hard running centre Paul Walsh kicked the conversion or so we thought but it was judged to have drifted wide. Where was Seamie Cusack when they needed him! Sligo came back at Castlebar for the last five mins but they held out well until half time.
With both teams making changes at half time the second half was a more open game, but still played with great commitment and skill from both teams. Castlebar extended their lead after twelve mins when their outstanding number 8 Sam Hastings stole a Sligo lineout just outside their 22 and beat three players to touchdown for a brilliant score. This try means he has scored in every game played so far this season, a superb achievement for the captain. Paul Walsh was just wide again with the difficult conversion.
The game was always evenly matched and Sligo’s elusive out half scored a fine try with five mins to go. This set the game up for a tight finish and it was Castlebar who finished the game stronger camped inside the Sligo 22 but unable to convert the pressure into points.
This was a fine performance and all the players contributed to the win. It was a good hard match for Castleba,r with a lot of players playing their way into contention for the last league match coming up against local rivals Westport. It also is a confidence booster for them with the cup just around the corner.
Castlebar panel for the Sligo game; Conor Carter, Tommy Keane, Robert Hughes, Jack Heavy, Bren Allen, Sam Hastings (capt), Martin Gallagher, Pat Corless, Pat Carolan, Calum Kyne, Eimhen Morrin, Paul Walsh, Conor Quinn, Dylan Cannon, Brandon Tolan, James Byrne, Owen Togher, Patrick Burke, Tiernan McCann, Cian O Halloran, John Dolan, David Conlon, David McHugh
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Castlebar 26 – Ballina 15
Good Win For Castlebar Under 13 Rugby Team
Castlebar U13 Rugby team had an encouraging victory over local rivals Ballina in the Connaught League at Cloondesh on Saturday the 19th December 2009 prior to the Christmas break. This victory kept them in good spirits for the festive period and they are now looking forward to a successful campaign in the 2010 season.
The game kicked off early and was played in ideal weather conditions. Both sides were eager to lay down a marker at an early stage and after a ten minute period of excellent rugby, Castlebar’s No. 8 Sam Hastings eventually broke the deadlock and scored a magnificent try in the corner at the town end of the pitch. This try was a culmination of exceptional rucking, tackling and mauling by both backs and forwards and was duly converted from the touch line by the in-form Paul Walsh.
For the next ten minutes of the game both sides endeavoured to get on top with Ballina getting close to the try line on two occasions. However, it was Castlebar who exerted the most pressure resulting in another try in the corner scored by the excellent Sam Hastings. This try was again converted by Paul Walsh to leave the game 14-0 in favour of Castlebar. After just twenty minutes Ballina rallied again and after 28 minutes they scored a fantastic try following a penalty on the ten meter line with some great powerful driving by the forwards.
In the closing minutes of the first half a great solo break from a scrum on the half way line by the aforementioned and elusive Sam Hasting lead to a brilliant try under the posts to secure his hat trick. This try was converted by Eimhin Morrin to leave Castlebar leading at half time on a scoreline of 21 points – 5 points.
Castlebar started the second half in a similar fashion to the way they finished the first half. Both sides tried to up the pace from the kick off and secure dominance. Following an entertaining ten minutes spell at the start of the second half hooker Tommie Keane emerged with the ball in hand and after evading a number of tackles from 25 meters out he scored a brilliant touch down at the Clubhouse corner flag end. A gigantic kick from Paul Walsh hit the post to leave Castlebar leading comfortably by 26 – 5.
Ballina never gave up and they scored two very good tries in the 44th and 55th minutes to close the gap to eleven points. The final score was 26 points – 15 points in favour of Castlebar and this handsome victory over their near neighbours and rivals put the supporters in joyful mood for the festive period.
The Castlebar panel of players who participated in this game and all played very well were:
Robert Hughes Tommie Keane Conor Carter Jack Heavey
Brin Allen Pat Corless Sam Hastings Martin Gallagher
Calum Kyne Eimhin Morrin James Byrne Paul Walsh
Jerry Conavan Pat Carolan Dylan Cannon Keelan McDonnell
Kevin Sweeney James Conway Dylan Hughes David McHugh
Eoin Togher Tiernan McCann John Dolan Eoin Brown
Cian O’Halloran David Conlon
Connacht Under 15 League (5/12/09)
Westport 24 Castlebar 10
Castlebar Under 15’s took on league leaders Westport on Saturday in Carrowholly. Driving rain and strong winds set the scene for this crunch encounter which saw the Castlebar side put in their best performance to date. Excellent rucking from Castlebar saw them in possession for the majority of the match and were unlucky to concede two tries to the Westport backline in the first half. The hard work from the entire Castlebar team was rewarded by an impressive team try just before the half time whistle. Strong drives from Faolan Flynn, Fintan Murphy and Arron Wotton combined with excellent rucking from the entire team saw Caiman Summerville power over to touch down in the corner. Liam Irwin was unlucky with the conversion.
The second half saw the Castlebar men continue their impressive rucking display and facing into a very strong and bitter wind, they powered down the pitch by a numbered of phase showing excellent retention skills and where unlucky not to touch down for their second try within minutes of the kick-off. Conceding a penalty just short of the Westport line, Westport weathered the intense pressure and broke free through their backline to score in the Castlebar corner. Again facing into the wind and with the gap widening between the two side following another Westport try the Castlebar side once again raised their game and saw big performances from Oisin Kyne, Dylan Gilmore, Neil Kernan and Michael Hall. The backline of Liam Irwin, Shane Kiernan, Patrick Burke, Shane Doherty, Sean Kelly and Michael Hall always looked dangerous in attack despite the terrible weather conditions. The good work and relentless pressure was rewarded when Arron Wotton picked from the back of the scrum and broke down the blindslide to link up with Shane Doherty on the wing who took off on an impressive individual effort and beat a number of Westport defenders to touch down in the corner, bringing the scoreline to Westport 24 Castlebar 10 which remained the same for the remainder of the game despite the best efforts of Castlebar.
Good performances were also seen from James Molloy, Conor Tuohy and Kevin Scott. Castlebar are away to Ballina next Saturday in the League.
Castlebar : Michael Hall, Shane Doherty, Shane Kiernan, Patrick Burke, Sean Kelly, Liam Irwin, Conor Tuohy, James Molly, Caimin Summerville, Dylan Gilmore, Fintan Murphy, Faolan Flynn, Neil Kernan, Oisin Kyne, Aarron Wotton.Replacements: Kevin Scott, Daire Morrin, Brendan Flannery, Kamar Anjorin, Patrick McHale, Colm O’Reilly, Ian Neary, Peter Rogan.
Connacht U13 League (5/12/09)
Castlebar 24 Sligo 0
Castlebar u13 rugby team had a great victory over Sligo at Cloondesh on Saturday under wet and windy conditions. The game kicked off early and after a brisk start Castlebar winger Colm Quinn made a great break down the touchline to put Dylon Cannon through for a brilliant try under the posts. This try was unerringly converted by Karl Benson to put the home side ahead 7-0 after only four minutes. Both teams were playing very well despite the inclement weather conditions and following a scrum on the half way line mid way through the first half and some good driving by the forwards the ball was passed out along the backline at pace where the aforementioned Colm Quinn was again on hand to touch down in the corner. Castlebar deservedly led at the interval by 12pts to nil for Sligo.
The second half was almost an exact replica of the first with Castlebar making a good start with the aid of a stiff breeze. The forwards and backs integrated well and in one sweeping move a great run from forty metres and try by Pat Corless again converted by the accurate boot of Karl Benson ensured an inevitable victory for the home side. Another super solo try ten minuets from the end by Paul Walsh made sure the large contingent of local supporters went home happy with another convincing victory.
The following is the panel of players that participated and each of them performed heroically.
R Hughes T Keane C Carter J Heavey B Allen P Corless P Carolan M Gallaher D Conlon D McHugh E Togher E Brown P Walsh C O Halloran J Dolan C Kyne E Morrin J Byrne
K Benson C Quinn D Cannon
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U17 Rugby Division 2 League
John Hannigan
Castlebar 17 - Carrick on Shannon 5 (22/11/09)
Castlebar played Carrick in adverse weather conditions where gale force winds were to determine the style of play for the afternoon. Because of the extreme conditions Carrick’s home fixture was switched to Castlebar.
Castlebar kicked off with the wind behind them and quickly set up camp within Carrick’s twenty two. Any effort by Carrick to clear the ball resulted in it coming straight back due to the force of the wind so the only way out was to run, which was also proving very difficult against the wind. The visitors dug in with a strong defence despite the relentless pressure and it was not until the twentieth minute that Cian Gibbons , number eight, eventually pick from the scrum and charged low to the ground to score to the left of the posts giving Castlebar a five point lead.
After the kick off it was not long until Castlebar were back down on Carrick’s twenty two and Owen Thornton, scrum half, passed from a rook to Castlebar’s outhalf, Oisin Ferriter, who went in to score a try and make it 10 points for Castlebar just before half time.
Carrick restarted the second half putting Castlebar into their own twenty two and it looked as if Castlebar were about to experience what they had put Carrick through in the first half. The home team’s first half lead looked as if it was about to be cancelled out very quickly as a result of the pressure that Carrick put them under. However, Castlebar’s defence strengthened and it was not long until all play was located on the half way line. Carrick were relentless in their pressure but never took the same advantage of the wind in the second half as Castlebar had done in the first half.
Carrick made a testing kick from their own half on full back, Jack Hannigan , who ran from his own posts jinking his way to the visitors half way line before passing inside to second row Eamon Regan who quickly distributed the ball to the right to Cian Gibbon who was bursting up the wing to eventually score under the posts. It was converted by Jack Irwin to bring the score to 17 points.
Carrick restarted driving Castlebar back to their five metre line. Carrick won the line out and set up rook in front of the posts on the twenty two. A fast ball ensured that the ball was distributed effectively to Carrick’s full back, Daniel Pugsley, who scored in the corner to give the visiting team a consolation try.
The game finished 17- 5 to Castlebar. Despite the conditions both teams managed to play a well fought entertaining game of rugby. Thanks to Carrick for travelling to Castlebar and to referee Paul Gannon.
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Training starts for new season
Castlebar RFC underage training will start over the coming weeks. Listed below are the contact persons, and the starting times & dates (where available). If you need more details, contact the relevant coach.
U-19 Contact person is Mick Geraghty (086-3781468), training is due to start on Friday 9th Sept at 7.00pm
U-17 Contact person is Seamus King (086-2585249), contact Seamus for details of training times
U-16 Contact person is John Hannigan (087-6994045), training is due to start on Wed 9th at 7.00pm.
U-15 Contact person is Paddy Durcan (087-2381072), training is due to start on Thursday 10th Sept at 7.00pm
U-14 Contact person is Kieran Horkan (086-8338015), training is due to start on Wednesday 16th Sept at 7.00pm
U-13 Contact person is Jim Moore (087-2489958), training is due to start on Thursday 17th Sept at 7.00pm
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Connacht U18 Plate Final
The u18 rugby team played in the Connacht final of the cup plate on Sunday in Ballyhaunis.
The game against Dunmore was played in ideal conditions under the scrutiny of branch appointed officials at the neutral venue. Castlebar who had won well against Ballyhaunis to qualify for the final were optimistic of a good display on the day. During the previous week, under the stewardship of coaches Robbie Carson and Greg Barry they had an intensive training session to fine tune their moves.
The game got off to an explosive start with the Dunmore side dominating the forward encounters with their heavier and bigger pack. Their first reward came with a penalty after 5 minutes but it was unconverted. They kept on pressure and scored a try after 15minutes, which also went unconverted. Despite this Castlebar did manage to improve their performance and were rewarded by a penalty for a high tackle, which was kicked by Stephen Rogan.
However despite Castlebars cohesiveness, Dunmore were able to pile on pressure and scored another try which they converted with 10 minutes to go in the half. Their dominance in the scrums was mainly due to their getting an early push, which was rarely punished by the ref, even though it was brought to his notice by the captain and the sideline regularly.
The interval saw Castlebar’s injured Dylan Bennett being replaced by Bryan Kiernan. During the half Bryan got injured and was replaced by Sean Brizay. Dunmore really got their form together in this half and ran in three unconverted tries which went unanswered.
The game ended with Dunmore being the worthy champions due to a spirited performance urged on by a large following from Dunmore who outnumbered Castlebar’s support by twenty to one. The power of support for a team is not to be underestimated.
Roll on next season when hopefully most of this Castlebar team will be available for an under 19 panel which is a new age category from next season.
TEAM :- J.McHale, M.Durcan, B.Awodibu, S.Conway, D.Irwin, P.Lyons, S.Rogan, R.Quinn, A.Gavin, D.Bennett, K.Glynn, D.Casey, S.Wooton, L.Staunton, Subs: S.Brizay, B.Kiernan
Connacht Plate U-18
CASTLEBAR U18’s are resurrected
Castlebar 19 Ballyhaunis 10 Castlebar played the Ballyhaunis U-18 team in Cloondeash on Wednesday March 18th at 7 pm. Castlebar have been idle since a big defeat in the cup first round at home to Corinthians on the 1st of February. This put them into the plate competition. They got a walk over against Creggs and then had to play Ballyhaunis. This is the plate semi final and it was played at home on Wednesday evening. Having failed on numerous occasions to get together for training sessions due to studying pressures, it was a major challenge for the team to expect to function well.
The game was played in ideal conditions on a good dry pitch. It was a ding dong battle for the first 20 minutes being played from end to end without either defence being penetrated. After many warnings to Castlebar from the ref for going off the feet in the rucks, it culminated with the captain being sin binned. A minute later Ballyhaunis succeeded in scoring a converted try. By return of play upfield Castlebar’s Dylan Bennett within two minutes scored a try, which was converted by Stephen Rogan. The scores remained locked at 7 each to the break.
Ten minutes into the second half David Casey piroetted his way through the Ballyhaunis defence to score a try which went unconverted. This was later followed by some powerful running by Mark Durcan who scored a try near the posts. This was converted by S.Rogan whose kick went in off the post.
Ballyhaunis worked their way up field again and cam away with a penalty but that ended the scoring. It was a fine gutsy display by the Castlebar team who had to dig deep to win. Hopefully they will get in some training to stand a chance in the final
TEAM :- J.McHale, M.Durcan, B.Awodibu, S.Conway, S.Brizay, P.Lyons, S.Rogan, R.Quinn, A.Gavin, D.Bennett, K.Glynn, D.Irwin, D.Casey, S.Wooton, R.Sweeney,
Ref: A.Maxwell, Westport
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Cup News
Castlebar U13 played Sligo in Castlebar in the quarter finals of the cup. Castlebar 13s were beaten but put in a very determined performance. The 13s will continue to train on Thursday nights and play friendly games until further notice. Fergal Dempsey, Nigen Byrne and Jim would like to thank the squad and parents for the dedication shown throughout the season.
Castlebar U14s played Carrick in Shannon in the first round of the cup and beat them 25 - 7. Castlebar go on to play Galwegian in the quarter finals which will be played in Castlebar. Training on wednesday night at seven.
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2008 / 2009 Cup Draws
Note to all coaches:
1. All participating in the Youth Cups needs to have Registration Cards ready for inspection prior to the match. It is the coach’s responsibility to make sure all players have registration cards. I recommend that the coaches keep a copy of the registration cards of all the players to make sure it is available for inspection.
2. No registration card – No match (The match will be forfeited). This issue was discussed last night and it was decided that cards will be inspected prior to the match.
3. Team sheets needs to be submitted and completed correctly (i.e. name, registration number, position and number on jersey – if different from position).
4. Team sheets to be submitted prior to the match (the ref and opposing team each gets a copy of the team sheet).
U/13 Cup – First round 7th Feb 09 – Away to Oughterard
U/14 Cup – First round 14th Feb 09 – Away to Carrick on Shannon
U/16 Cup – First round 22nd Feb 09 – Home to Sligo A
U/18 Cup – First round 1st Feb 09 – Home to Corinthians
See attached sheets for Cup Draw details.
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Full Cup Draws |
Connacht U18 League
VENUE :- Castlebar November 28nd 7.00pm & Dec 5th 7.30pm
TEAMS :- Castlebar V Corrib & Dunmore
SCORE :- Castlebar 5 Corrib 24, Castlebar 8 Dunmore 15
Castlebar U18 have suffered two defeats recently, from which hopefully they have learned valuable lessons. Absence of regular players on both occasions led to weaknesses as players came to terms with new positions. However this is good for the longterm development of the panel.
Corrib are new into the league to replace Ballinrobe who are not fielding. Good weather was enjoyed for the game, with a slight breeze favouring the visitors in the first half, who travelled with the luxury of 8 subs. It appeared a balanced encounter in the first half with Corrib scoring one try.
However early in the second half they got three tries resulting from the strong running of the Corrib outhalf and lack of tackling on the Castlebar side. Two of the tries were converted. However Castlebar who were obviously unhappy with the situation played hard to defend their line against a much heavier pack. A break in the siege came towards the end of the game with a fine intercept try by the Connacht player Mark Durcan who proved very fast and astute in his run of over half the pitch.
At training during the week the tackling skills were honed and a determined team took the pitch against Dunmore on Friday night. Conditions were ideal without any breeze, rain or cold.
Again there were many players out of position, however Castlebar played with great fire and conviction. The tackling had obviously improved with it breaking down on only one occasion. However there were many penalties conceded by both sides for handling & holding in the rucks. Corrib chose to kick many of theirs from upto halfway but were unsuccessful on 5 occasions. Castlebar chose to run most of theirs as they were unhappy with their success in the lineouts. Both sides scored unconverted tries in the first half and Mark Durcan kicked a penalty.
The second half was very much a tightly contested affair until Dunmore broke the deadlock towards the end of the game to score 2 unconverted tries. The lesson learned is to improve the lineouts which necessitates better attendance at training. This has been changed to 7pm on Mondays to ensure it happens.
TEAM v Corrib:- J.McHale, M.Durcan, B.Awodibu, S.Conway, S.Brizay, S.Breen, P.Lyons, S.Rogan, R.Quinn, F.Durcan, G.Fennessy, N.Dunne, D.Irwin, D.Casey, Ref: S.Gavin – Sligo
TEAM v Dunmore:- M.Durcan, S.Breen, B.Awodibu, S.Conway, D.Irwin, J.McHale, P.Lyons, R. Quinn, F.Durcan, G.Fennessy, B.Kiernan, K.Glynn, D.Casey, L.Staunton, S.Wooton. Ref- S.McElwee Cbar
Connacht League U-18 (22/11/08)
OH SO CLOSE IN LOCAL DERBY.
Castlebar 21 Westport 23
Castlebar played Westport in Cloondeash on Friday evening November 22nd 7.30pm. This match took place in Castlebar even though it was a Westport home fixture. They opted to play in Castlebar as the pitch lights permitted it to be played at a time and day that suited everyone best. Heavy, misty rain was experienced for the first and last few minutes but otherwise good weather was enjoyed for the game.
Both teams started very determined and showing great skill in the phases of play. The game moved steadily into the Castlebar half and put on pressure at the line, but were kept out by fine tackling and rucking by Castlebar. They too worked their way into the Westport half but were eventually repelled by Westport. Westport again made their way to the Castlebar line and were rewarded by a try and conversion in the 13th minute. The game developed a pattern of both teams working their way into the oppositions half only to be kicked back into their 22m area, which made for an entertaining spectacle with great play by both teams. Sean Conway was substituted in the 22nd minute due to a severe knock when completing one of his trademark crunching tackles.
Castlebar failed to convert a penalty in the 26th minute while Westport, did convert theirs in the 30th minute, they also scored a try in the 33rd minute, which went unconverted. So the half ended with Westport having a great lead of 15 to nil.
The Castlebar team talk concluded with some changing of players to different positions for the second half. As is now a regular pattern with this Castlebar they were undaunted in being faced with coming from far behind in the scoring and started with great determination. This resulted in captain Sean Wooton being successful with one of his many runs at the line in scoring a try. This was, converted by Stephen Rogan. From the restart Westport’s play was rewarded by a penalty kick, which they scored.
Castlebar dominated the next phases of the game until the 28th minute, with great ball handling phases. During this time they scored two exciting tries. The first came after many well rucked balls resulting in one being hacked ahead near the posts and was touched down by Donal Irwin. A short time later, again after similar powerful rucking, Peter Lyons weaved his way through the Westport defence to touch down under the posts. Stephen Rogan converted both tries. This left Castlebar with a healthy lead of 21 to 18.
However Westport raised their determination and forced Castlebar back into their 22. Despite otherwise resolute defending, Castlebar let down their defences when a number of them failed to tackle the Westport outhalf, who succeeded in running through for an unconverted try. Castlebar dug deep with just 3minutes left and worked their way to the Westport line. They were rewarded by a penalty near the line, which was unkickable. In running it, they ran out of time to gain another score as the Westport defence held up. And thus ended, a fine, well spirited, entertaining game.
CASTLEBAR TEAM :- J.McHale, S.Breen, B.Awodibu, S.Conway, S.Brizay, P.Lyons, S.Rogan, R.Quinn, F.Durcan, D.Geraghty, D.Irwin, D.Casey, S.Wooton. Subs:K.Glynn for B.Kiernan
Castlebar 20 Ballina 3 (14/11/08)
Castlebar played Ballina in Cloondeash on Friday night November 14th 7pm This match took place in heavy showers of misty rain with the ground getting slippy.
Castlebar played against a very strong breeze which prevented much kicking by them in the first half.
Ballina kept Castlebar in their half for the first part of the game and were rewarded by a converted penalty in the 16th minute. From the restart Castlebar having adopted to the conditions spent time in Ballina’s half and also saw S.Rogan scoring a penalty. However shortly after the restart Ballina were awarded a penalty which went unconverted. The half did not have any more scores but Castlebar were proving dominant and capable in all aspects of play.
The team talk concluded to make use of the breeze in the second half to gain ground whenever possible.
Castlebar dominated Ballina in their 22m area for the next few minutes and were rewarded by a try by F.Gannon which went unconverted. For the next while, Castlebar kept Ballina under pressure which resulted in a missed pass onto which Castlebar’s winger charged and kicked ahead and he touched it down for a try in the 47th min. Castlebar dominated the rest of the game with great ball handling phases. Further forwards pressure led by the captain Sean Wooton ended with him scoring a try in the 53rd min. which Stephen Rogan converted. This ended the scoring in the game but Castlebar remained dominant. D.Monaghan replaced S.Brizay in the 60th. Each team had a player binned for handling ball in the rucks. This is an area of the game which caused many penalties as players are slowly learning not to do it.
Castlebar continue to build in strength and confidence and are next away to Westport.
CASTLEBAR TEAM :- J.McHale, D.Irwin, B.Awodibu, S.Conway, S.Brizay, D.Monaghan, P.Lyons, S.Rogan, R.Quinn, F.Durcan, D.Bennett, K.Glynn, D.Geraghty, D.Casey, S.Wooton
Castlebar 27 Ballyhaunis 15 (07/11/08)
Castlebar played Ballyhaunis in Ballyhaunis on Friday November 7th. . This match took place on a fine pitch despite recent torrential rain.
Castlebar travelled with 16 players. Ballyhaunis put immense pressure on from the start and were rewarded by tries in the 2nd & 9th minutes,which went unconverted. However Castlebar were building their cohesiveness and some out of position players came good. A break from the back of the scrum led to Sean Wooton feeding Blessing Awodibu who went over for a try which was converted by Stephen Rogan. For the remainder of the half Castlebar put pressure on Ballyhaunis but it went unrewarded.
The team talk at half fired them resulting in Blessing getting over for a try in the 2nd minute of the second half. This went unconverted. Ballyhaunis put on pressure and scored an unconverted try in the 7th minute. Castlebar went again in search of the line and Stephen managed a fine droop goal to level the match. For the rest of the game Ballyhaunis were diehard but were overcome by the visitors with Sean Wooton and Blessing getting over for a try each. Castlebar now have a great basis for their next at home fixture to Ballina next weekend, which may be the toughest of the competition.
CASTLEBAR TEAM :- J.McHale, D.Irwin, B.Awodibu, S.Conway, P.Lyons, S.Rogan, R.Quinn, F.Durcan, D.Bennett, K.Glynn, B. Kiernan, D.Casey, G.Fennessy, S.Wooton.
S.Breen for the injured D.Bennett at half time.
Castlebar 24 Creggs 31 (02/11/08)
Castlebar played Creggs in Cloondeash on Sunday November 2nd .This match took place in ideal conditions on a dry pitch in good condition.
Castlebar were stretched with only 13 players available. Therefore Creggs the pack on both sides was limited to 7 and therefore Creggs played with 14 players. However Castlebar played with great spirit to a man. For most of the first half the game was scoreless. Near the break both teams found their feet and some scores came. Castlebar were leading until the last quarter when Creggs got on top and scored the winning try which was converted. Two tries were scored by and due to the scorching pace and evasive running of the second centre B.Awodibu. Luke Staunton playing at no.8 scored the other try. These were converted by S.Rogan who also kicked a penalty.
CASTLEBAR TEAM :- J.McHale, A.Masuku. B.Awodibu, S.Conway, P.Lyons, S.Rogan, R.Quinn, F.Gann, D.Bennett, K.Glynn, D.Casey, D.Irwin, S.Wooton.
CASTLEBAR 17 STAMFORD 5 Castlebar U-18 team played Stamford College in a friendly at Cloondeash under the lights on Tuesday evening October 28th at 6.00pm.This match took place in ideal conditions on a slightly frosty evening with the pitch in good condition despite heavy weather over the weekend. Stamford College, East Midlands, England is a boarding school which took a panel of 36 players u17&u18 on a midterm tour to the west of Ireland. They had recently played teams in Galway. On this evening they fielded two teams against Castlebar & Westport at Cloondeash. Later on their tour they will play Sligo & Ballinahinch before returning home via Belfast.
Castlebar were much in need of a game to get their season started as despite many training sessions since the start of September they had not had a full competitive game. Their first league fixture was awarded to them due to the non fielding of Ballinrobe. They started the encounter with vigour but were forced to stay in their own half for the first ten minutes as Stamford who were a better drilled team dominated them. However Castlebar defended resolutely through with the great tackling of D.Irwin & D. Casey they found their feet. Through the good play of their scrumhalf S.Rogan and astute kicking of P.Lyons they worked their way down the pitch. The pack performed well in the scrums near the line and they did not leave without a well taken try by D.Irwin. The conversion was not successful.
For the rest of the half Castlebar regularly worked their way up the pitch and nullified Stamfords efforts and were rewarded by a well taken try by S.Wooton. This resulted from many rucks near the line from which Sean powered his way over. The try went unconverted. The half time score was Castlebar 10 Stamford 5.
The second half continued in similar fashion with Stamford throwing all they had at Castlebar who demonstrated superb skills and passion in defence and attack. This culminated in a fine run by the backline with the second centre B.Awodibu, who used his exceptional speed to carve open the defence and supported by S.Brizay scoring the third try. This was converted by S.Rogan.
The Castlebar showed great ability and commitment, which should be well tested in the forthcoming league games at home to Creggs & away to Ballyhaunis.
CASTLEBAR TEAM :- J.McHale, S.Brizay, B.Awodibu, S.Conway, , P.Lyons, S.Rogan, R.Flynn, F.Gannon, D.Bennett, K.Glynn, R.Sheridan, D.Casey, D.Irwin, S.Wooton.
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CASTLEBAR RUGBY CLUB UNDERAGE TRAINING
Training for the U - 18 team commences on Wed September 10th at 7.00 pm in Cloondeash.
Training for the U - 14 team commences on Wed 17th September at 7.00pm in Cloondeash.
Subscription for the year is € 75 and includes a Jacket and Polo Shirt.
New and returning players are welcome.
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