Football Championship Wins

It was a good weekend for our footballers with wins recorded in both the JAFC and the JCFC in the space of twenty four hours.

See photos included courtesy of both Denis O'Flynn - (lots more on his facebook page) and Jamie Cashman J.C Photography

Junior 'A' Grade

First up it was a 3-10 to 1-12 win over Fr O'Neill's in the Michael O'Connor Motor Factors 'A' grade championship in Shanagarry on Friday evening.

With wind advantage in the first half we were ahead by 2-7 to 0-6 at the interval. Goals by Mike Kelly and Jack McGann (penalty after 6 minutes) and a superb two pointer by Andrew Kelly were amongst the highlights of a solid opening half. Jack also hit two super 45 meter frees, whilst the highly energetic Billy McGann registered two points. Mike Cosgrave was also a big presence in midfield where he was often the target for Conor Whyte's excellent kick outs. Overall, a decent 30 minutes, but there were just slight signs that Fr O'Neill's could threaten, especially through full forward Brian Coleman.

The picture looked even better for Castlemartyr entering the last quarter, when the "Reds" led by 3-9 to 0-6. Rory Black and Jack McGann had kicked good early points and in between Rory's high delivery fell short and in a duel between Darragh Cashman and the full back, the ball found its way to the net - one for the dubious goal panel !!

Thereafter, when we were temporarily down to 14 due to a black card, Fr O'Neill's kicked some quality two pointers and with the help of a late penalty were within striking distance when the clock was in the red. It took an instinctive save from net minder Conor Whyte to deny the Aghavine side a second green flag deep in stoppage time. In the end Castlemartyr advanced with a small bit of breathing space, in a match when we looked the better side from the first whistle.

Plenty of energy around the field with some fine football featuring, but the odd bit of rustiness ensures room for improvement. Next up we play Erin's Own back in Shanagarry on Saturday 15th August.- The Caherlag side were beaten 1-12 to 0-6 by Dungourney in Castlemartyr in the group's opening match.

Team

Conor Whyte, Declan Kelly, Jamie Stack, Niall O'Donovan, Richard Burke, Cathal Martin, Liam Martin, Mike Cosgrave, Peter Fleming, Jack McGann, Mike Kelly, Billy McGann, Rory Black, Darragh Cashman and Andrew Kelly.

Scorers - Jack McGann 1-4 (inc 1-0 penalty, 2 x 45 's and 1free )Mike Kelly 1-1, Darragh Cashman 1-0