Hurlers Make It 5 Wins In A Row

Castlemartyr 5-24 Mayfield 1-14

This was straightforward for our hurlers in their concluding RED FM League fixture of the season, as we ran out very convincing winners to make it five wins on the spin..

Unfortunately, despite a vastly superior scoring difference to Agabollogue, we lost out on a Final place and promotion on the head to head rule . A narrow early season defeat in Coachford was the key match as both teams finished on 13 points. Ballyhea's expected win this morning over Erin's Own has ensured them of top spot on 14 points and thus a passage to promotion and the decider.

Lots of positives can be taken from this good run of Castlemartyr form over the past few months.

 Again like other days, the reds were down a number of regulars for this latest win. Mayfield have struggled badly for form all season and never threatened to derail Castlemarty's recent high scoring exploits. The game was fairly done and dusted by the break as the advantage stood at 2-13 to 1-7 - this after we raced into an early 1-7 to 0-2 lead - Declan Kelly finishing from close range after one of the many impressive moves produced by the team over the hour. Joe Stack added the first of his two goals on 23 minutes, whilst LIam Martin, Billy McGann, Brian Lawton and Cian Murphy all scored quality points. The score of the half was the final act before the short whistle as Conor Whyte finished from downtown following an instinctive Declan Kelly flick into his path.  

Billy McGann delivered his customary goal contribution in the second half to add to a collection of fine points. Charlie O'Neiil who is settling well into this new wing back role scored a superb point to crown his day and Liam Martin who turned in a top performance was again on the mark to take his tally to 0-4 as Castlemartyr coasted home.

So, with just over four weeks to go to the championship and that opener against Kilworth in Youghal, there is plenty of competition for places, which is a healthy sign for all involved.

Team - Brian Smiddy, Cathal Martin, James Lawton, Odhran Cantwell, Conor Whyte, Darragh Joyce, Charlie O'Neill, Ciarán Sice, Brian Lawton, Billy McGann, Liam Martin, Mike O'Dwyer, Cian Murphy, Joe Stack, Declan Kelly.

Subs - Darragh Cashman, Tom Fleming and Cormac Lynch.

Scorers - Billy McGann 2-11, Joe Stack 2-2, Declan Kelly 1-1, LIam Martin 0-4, Brian Lawton 0-2, Cian Murphy, Conor Whyte, Darragh Cashman and Charlie O'Neill 0-1 each.

Challenge Matches

Both our junior hurlers and junior footballers will also be in championship action over the next few months. The footballers first defence of their crown is against Lisgoold in Midleton - at the moment it looks like going ahead on Thursday July 17th - (date and time still to be officially confirmed) In between the start of both championships, Castlemartyr are hoping to line up some challenge games over the next few weeks.

Golf Classic

 - From the playing pitch to the golf course and thronging pursuit of teams and tee box sponsorship in advance of our Classic, which runs at Castlemartyr Golf Club from July 16th to 18th. So far, a very positive response has been received, but we need to drive further over the next few weeks. Thus, a final rallying call is sent to all our members and supporters to assist the cause by sourcing teams at €200 or tee boxes at €50. Thanks to all who have helped over the past few months - we greatly appreciate all your efforts. 

Well Done Ava

On behalf of all in Castlemartyr GAA, a massive word of congratulations to Ava McAuliffe who was recently selected on the Electric Ireland minor camogie team of the year.

In this year’s team, Kilkenny are well represented with seven players included, while beaten finalists Cork have five included on the team. Beaten semi-finalists, Tipperary are also included on this year’s team with two players, while one player from the Galway panel also features.

  Ava is a highly talented dual player having already also lined out with the Cork senior football team and is a great ambassador for Castlemartyr Camogie Club.  

She certainly is a rising star with a huge future in both codes.

Saturday Semi Final

All our good wishes go with Ciarán and the Cork hurlers ahead of Saturday's All Ireland semi final against Dublin. The rebels will go in as warm favourites but will be well aware of a hungry, energetic Dublin team , who showed their worth against Limerick.  

Ticket payment and collection for the match will take place tomorrow evening in the meeting room in Castlemartyr pitch between 7:30 - 8:30pm. CASH ONLY payments, please have the correct amount.

Congrats Mogeely FC

A word of congratulations to Mogeely FC on their recent great win in the Corinthians Cup Final at Turners Cross. The lads are certainly in a good place, having reached two finals this season on the back of last year's County Cup Win.

Busking In The Woods

- Finally a note on behalf of Castlemartyr Community Council to say that Busking In The Woods will be held on Sunday week July 13th from 2pm at Pigeon Wood - a great family occasion, which has proved so successful in recent years.