UCC captured their second Interfirm football cup of the year with a deserved win over South West Energy Services (SWS) in the Murphy Cup A Final. A strong second half performance under the excellent floodlights in Ballincollig saw UCC come out on top on a scoreline of 1-13 to 0-09. UCC trailed by two points at half time, 0-04 to 0-06 but turned it around after the break and ran out seven point winners.
UCC started the game brightly and dominated possession for large periods. However they failed to convert this possession into scores as the final ball into the full forward line was poor. From limited possession SWS looked more dangerous and kicked the first scores of the game.
UCC finally got off the mark with a well taken free from Don O'Connell. At the other end SWS were causing problems for the UCC defence and they were awarded a large number of frees. In fact, five of SWS's six scores in the first half were the result of indiscretions from the UCC defence. Throughout the half it seemed that the UCC full forward line had the measure of their markers but misplaced and delayed passes meant they failed to take advantage to this. One of the better passes saw Garret Casey nearly goal with a good fisted effort.
UCC were largely dependant on the industry of centre forward Michael Byrne to make inroads. He kicked a fine point from play and earned a free which was converted by Don O'Connell. UCC's final score of the half came from O'Connell to leave the gap at two points at half time, UCC 0-04 SWS 0-06.
During the break UCC introduced Dave Stafford to midfield and Ronan Power came on at half forward. These two players had a huge role in swinging the game UCC's way. Stafford added great strength and ball winning ability in the middle of the field while Power kicked over three superb points from play.
UCC were much the better team in the second half and had quickly overturned the half time deficit with a point from Power and two more from Don O'Connell, who finished with 1-05 to his name. Dave Prendergast really came into the game in the second half and kicked over a great point following a storming run down the left wing from half back. This had UCC two points in front, eight points to six.
A sustained period of pressure saw UCC awarded a penalty after an SWS defender was forced to pick the ball straight off the ground in the goalmouth when UCC seemed certain to score. However, Don O'Connell's well hit shot beat the keeper but struck the bottom of the right-hand post and bounced to safety. SWS were boosted by this and in the following few minutes hit two of their three second half points to level the scores at eight points apiece.
UCC regained their foothold in the game with some great catches from Colm O'Connell and Dave Stafford. One such catch by O'Connell saw him feed wing back Donal Og O Donovan who led a great passing move through the SWS defence but the end result saw John Eakins pull his shot narrowly wide of the right-hand post.
UCC didn't have long to wait for the game's defining score which came after 15 minutes of the secong half. Another fine catch by Colm O'Connell saw UCC work the ball through for Don O'Connell to palm the ball first time to the net. UCC built on their advantage by adding further points from Ronan Power and Jerry Reen to open up a decisive six point lead, 1-11 to 0-08 as the game moved into the final ten minutes.
SWS responded with a point but the UCC defence held firm as SWS sought the goal that would bring them back into the game. This was epitomised by Diarmaid Herlihy who dived bravely in front of a goalbound effort and took a heavy blow. In goal Diarmaid Hallissey was always decisive and a first time clearance from him was won by Stafford in the middle of the field. He laid the ball off to the onrunning Donal Og O'Donovan and an excellent quick ball delivered from distance saw the hardworking Garret Casey beat his man and kick a fine point to push UCC further ahead.
UCC's last score came when Dave Prendergast reprised his storming run of earlier in the half and cut straight through from his half back berth to kick a stunning point from 35 yards. Shortly afterwards the final whistle went with UCC winners by 1-13 to 0-09.
UCC captain Olan Casey accepted the cup and gave a fine speech. Afterwards midfielder Colm O'Connell was deservedly presented with the Man of the Match award. After losing their first six football finals in a row (see sidebar) UCC have now completed a much more positive three-in-a-row with victories in the Finals of the 2008 Junior B Cup, the 2009 Junior Cup and now the 2009 Murphy Cup. The next step will be to add a Championship success which has so far proved elusive.
Team: Diarmaid Hallissey, Kevin O'Mahony, Rory Rice, Diarmaid Herlihy, Dave Prendergast (0-02), Olan Casey, Robert Phelan, Donal Og O'Donovan, Colm O'Connell, John Eakins, Michael Byrne(0-01), Aidan Kelliher, Don O'Connell (1-05, 3f), Jerry Reen, (0-01), Garret Casey (0-01). Subs: Dave Stafford, Ronan Power (0-03), Pat Dennehy, Eoin O'Leary, Denis Lynch, Willie Fahy, Seamus Coffey.
Last Second Goal Costs UCC Title
UCC lost by one point to Bank of New York in the Junior B Hurling Championship Final played under lights in the Mardyke on Wednesday night. Deep in stoppage time UCC led by two points but a ground shot following a 65 that was dropped into the square saw Bank of New York score a match-winning goal. The final whistle blew before the puck out could be taken.
UCC started the game very poorly and in truth were lucky to be only four points down at half time. BNY were completely on top for the opening period but some wayward shooting meant they were only three points to the good after 12 minutes. UCC finally got off the mark with a well taken Mike Wilkinson point but BNY were completely outplaying the UCC midfield and half back line.
BNY struggled to make use of their possession but added on two more points to open up a four point lead. UCC then had two great goal opportunities in quick succession but failed to take advantage of either. Wilkinson apart, a lack of a credible threat upfront was limiting UCC's chances. Wilkinson added a second point and Gerard McGlacken worked hard to knock over a fine point.
Bob Dunphy, Rory Rice and Denis Murphy were under constant pressure in the UCC full back line and their efforts kept UCC in the game. BNY had the lion's share of possession but a tendency to over-elaborate and some ill-chosen shots cost them on the scoreboard. At the half time whistle the score was 0-08 to 0-04.
During the break UCC introduced Eanna Martin on the 40' and moved McGlacken to full forward. Following the restart UCC were a transformed team with overall workrate and effort levels far higher than in the first half. Martin, along with Ronan Spillane and Colm O'Connell on the wings finally began to make inroads on the BNY half back line.
UCC shot over quick points from Spillane and Wilkinson. These were added to with a well worked goal from Eanna Martin following a strong run through the middle. UCC had now wiped out BNY's half time advantage but BNY responded with some good points of their own to restore a two point lead. Soon afterwards Ger McGlacken pounced on a loose ball and crashed a brilliant first time shot to the net for UCC's second goal. UCC could have built on this but some gilt-edged goal chances were squandered.
A high ball to the UCC goal mouth was forced over the line into the net to get BNY back into the game. The melee that led to the goal saw UCC full back Rory Rice suffer a nasty belt to the knee and following a lengthy delay he had to leave the field.
However following a quick dash of water and a rub of an ice pack Rice re-entered the fray and manned the centre forward position. He had an immediate impact and crashed over a great point. UCC were well on top at this stage and responded well to the BNY goal. Further points were added by Spillane and Wilkinson. Eanna Martin complemented these with a couple of fine frees with BNY's response limited to a couple of points.
Entering added time UCC were one point ahead. Substitute Niall Morrisey hit over an excellent point and UCC were now seemingly headed for victory. A late goalbound effort from BNY was deflected out for over the endline. For the resultant 65 the packed goalmouth seemed inpenetrable but somehow a tame ground shot from BNY found its way over the line for the winning goal. This put BNY into a 2-13 to 2-12 lead and the final whistle was blown before play could be restarted.
Losing to a last minute goal is obviously disappointing but following a poor first half UCC were lucky to be only four points behind. Even when UCC were on top in the second half BNY managed to keep in touch and it was this resiliance that left them in position to benefit from the last minute goal.
Since being reformed in 2004 this was UCC's 16th final in Interfirm competitions. From those 16 final appearances UCC have garnered five victories (and one walkover). UCC have one remaining chance for silverware with the Murphy Cup Football Final against South West Energy Services on Monday night.
Team: 1. Seamus Cronin 2. Robert Dunphy 3. Rory Rice (0-02) 4. Denis Murphy 5. John Eakins 6. Donnacha Carr 7. Robert Phelan 8. Mike Fitzgerald 9. Gavin Sullivan 10. Ronan Spillane (0-01) 11. Ger McGlacken (1-01) 12. Colm O'Connell 13. Peter Neary 14. Seamus Coffey 15. Mike Wilkinson (0-04, 1f). Subs. Eanna Martin (1-03, 2f), Conor Lonergan, Donagh O'Mahony, Niall Morrissey (0-01), Brian McGann.
UCC started the game very poorly and in truth were lucky to be only four points down at half time. BNY were completely on top for the opening period but some wayward shooting meant they were only three points to the good after 12 minutes. UCC finally got off the mark with a well taken Mike Wilkinson point but BNY were completely outplaying the UCC midfield and half back line.
BNY struggled to make use of their possession but added on two more points to open up a four point lead. UCC then had two great goal opportunities in quick succession but failed to take advantage of either. Wilkinson apart, a lack of a credible threat upfront was limiting UCC's chances. Wilkinson added a second point and Gerard McGlacken worked hard to knock over a fine point.
Bob Dunphy, Rory Rice and Denis Murphy were under constant pressure in the UCC full back line and their efforts kept UCC in the game. BNY had the lion's share of possession but a tendency to over-elaborate and some ill-chosen shots cost them on the scoreboard. At the half time whistle the score was 0-08 to 0-04.
During the break UCC introduced Eanna Martin on the 40' and moved McGlacken to full forward. Following the restart UCC were a transformed team with overall workrate and effort levels far higher than in the first half. Martin, along with Ronan Spillane and Colm O'Connell on the wings finally began to make inroads on the BNY half back line.
UCC shot over quick points from Spillane and Wilkinson. These were added to with a well worked goal from Eanna Martin following a strong run through the middle. UCC had now wiped out BNY's half time advantage but BNY responded with some good points of their own to restore a two point lead. Soon afterwards Ger McGlacken pounced on a loose ball and crashed a brilliant first time shot to the net for UCC's second goal. UCC could have built on this but some gilt-edged goal chances were squandered.
A high ball to the UCC goal mouth was forced over the line into the net to get BNY back into the game. The melee that led to the goal saw UCC full back Rory Rice suffer a nasty belt to the knee and following a lengthy delay he had to leave the field.
However following a quick dash of water and a rub of an ice pack Rice re-entered the fray and manned the centre forward position. He had an immediate impact and crashed over a great point. UCC were well on top at this stage and responded well to the BNY goal. Further points were added by Spillane and Wilkinson. Eanna Martin complemented these with a couple of fine frees with BNY's response limited to a couple of points.
Entering added time UCC were one point ahead. Substitute Niall Morrisey hit over an excellent point and UCC were now seemingly headed for victory. A late goalbound effort from BNY was deflected out for over the endline. For the resultant 65 the packed goalmouth seemed inpenetrable but somehow a tame ground shot from BNY found its way over the line for the winning goal. This put BNY into a 2-13 to 2-12 lead and the final whistle was blown before play could be restarted.
Losing to a last minute goal is obviously disappointing but following a poor first half UCC were lucky to be only four points behind. Even when UCC were on top in the second half BNY managed to keep in touch and it was this resiliance that left them in position to benefit from the last minute goal.
Since being reformed in 2004 this was UCC's 16th final in Interfirm competitions. From those 16 final appearances UCC have garnered five victories (and one walkover). UCC have one remaining chance for silverware with the Murphy Cup Football Final against South West Energy Services on Monday night.
Team: 1. Seamus Cronin 2. Robert Dunphy 3. Rory Rice (0-02) 4. Denis Murphy 5. John Eakins 6. Donnacha Carr 7. Robert Phelan 8. Mike Fitzgerald 9. Gavin Sullivan 10. Ronan Spillane (0-01) 11. Ger McGlacken (1-01) 12. Colm O'Connell 13. Peter Neary 14. Seamus Coffey 15. Mike Wilkinson (0-04, 1f). Subs. Eanna Martin (1-03, 2f), Conor Lonergan, Donagh O'Mahony, Niall Morrissey (0-01), Brian McGann.
Coverage of Replayed Hurling Final
The Evening Echo (07/10) ran a report on the replayed final of the Junior A Hurling Championship in which UCC lost out to Cork Garda. Click image to enlarge.
UCC Qualify for Murphy Cup Final
On a scoreline of 1-16 to 2-11 UCC overcame North Cork Garda to qualify for the final of the Murphy Football Cup.
1 Adrian Greaney 2 Kevin O Mahony 3 Rory Rice 4 Diarmuid Herlihy 5 Robert Phelan 6 Dave Stafford 7 Dave Prendergast 8 Colm O Connell 9 Donal Og O Donovan 10 Aidan Kelliher 11 Michael Byrne 12 Donal Cronin 13 Pat Cremin 14 Jerry Reen 15 Don O'Connell Subs Garret Casey, Mike Fitzgerald, Donagh O Mahony, Brendan Hallissey, Seamus Coffey.
1 Adrian Greaney 2 Kevin O Mahony 3 Rory Rice 4 Diarmuid Herlihy 5 Robert Phelan 6 Dave Stafford 7 Dave Prendergast 8 Colm O Connell 9 Donal Og O Donovan 10 Aidan Kelliher 11 Michael Byrne 12 Donal Cronin 13 Pat Cremin 14 Jerry Reen 15 Don O'Connell Subs Garret Casey, Mike Fitzgerald, Donagh O Mahony, Brendan Hallissey, Seamus Coffey.
Garda to the Fore in Junior Hurling Replay
Cork Garda ran out convincing winners, 4-13 to 2-07, in the replayed final of the Junior A Hurling Championship. Apart from a brief spell after half time UCC were never really in this game and failed to match their scoring exploits in their previous two games when they hit 4-15 and 2-18 respectively.
Garda started as they meant to continue and hit the opening point of the game. Further points from play were added with UCC's response limited to two long range frees from Eanna Martin. A high speculative ball into the UCC goal found it's way to the net via the Garda full-forward and although clearly in the square the goal was allowed to stand using a new interpretation of the "not interfering with play" clause in the rule book.
Garda continued to press ahead and it was clear that after missing plenty of scores in the drawn game they were not going to make the same mistake in the replay. The UCC defense, in which Denis Twomey and Timmy Geaney once again excelled, was under constant pressure as UCC failed to make any inroads upfront. UCC clearances were quickly returned with interest by Garda. The pressure eventually told and the concession of a needless foul led to a Garda penalty. This was not the best struck shot in the world but it still found its way to the corner of the net. A couple of more excellent points and Garda had built up a deserved 2-06 to 0-02 lead.
UCC finally found some traction up front in the closing minutes of the first half. This time a high speculative ball was played into the Garda goal and although clearly in the square Pat Cremin bundled the ball over the line and as at the other end the goal stood. Garda responded with a super goal following a brilliant low shot from 15 yards to the corner of the net. A great long range point from play from Gerard McGlacken concluded the scoring for the first half and UCC trailed by nine points at the break, 3-06 to 1-03.
UCC started the second half in a much more positive manner. The move of Rory Rice to midfield and the introduction of Fergal Moloney at full back added some much needed resolve. A pointed free from Eanna Martin and a fine point from play from a tight angle by Mattie Collins reduced the lead to seven points after the opening minutes.
A long puck-out from Seamus Cronin fell kindly to Ronan Spillane who took off on a solo run from 45 yards out. He beat his own man for pace, before flicking the ball over the head of the onrushing corner back and collecting the ball at the far side. He continued goalwards and a brilliant dummy past the full back left him with only the keeper to beat. A lovely flick under the body of the keeper finished the ball to the net for a great goal. The lead was now down to five and UCC were back in the game with 15 minutes to go with the score 3-06 to 2-04.
However, this was short lived as Garda quickly upped the ante and hit a succession of fine points to restore, and subsequently extend, their nine point advantage. Garda were well on top at this stage and pinged the ball across the field to unmarked colleagues to create a number of openings. The game was fully killed off with five minutes to go when Garda scored their fourth goal.
UCC did manage scores from an Eanna Martin free and towards the end Seamus Coffey added to a ball that was played into the square which flew over the bar from his hurley. At the final whistle Cork Garda ran out deserving 12 point winners, 4-13 to 2-07, and it is they who progress to the Munster Championship.
UCC Team: 1. Seamus Cronin 2. Denis Twomey 3. Rory Rice 4. Robert Dunphy 5. John Eakins 6. Timmy Geaney 7. Dave Stafford 8. Anthony Walsh 9. Eanna Martin (0-04, 4f) 10. Pat Cremin (1-00) 11. Ger McGlacken (0-01) 12. Ronan Spillane (1-01) 13. James Ryan 14. Olan Casey 15. Mattie Collins (0-01) Subs: Fergal Moloney, Seamus Coffey (0-01), Damien Fitzgerald, Mossey Crowe, Peter Neary.
Garda started as they meant to continue and hit the opening point of the game. Further points from play were added with UCC's response limited to two long range frees from Eanna Martin. A high speculative ball into the UCC goal found it's way to the net via the Garda full-forward and although clearly in the square the goal was allowed to stand using a new interpretation of the "not interfering with play" clause in the rule book.
Garda continued to press ahead and it was clear that after missing plenty of scores in the drawn game they were not going to make the same mistake in the replay. The UCC defense, in which Denis Twomey and Timmy Geaney once again excelled, was under constant pressure as UCC failed to make any inroads upfront. UCC clearances were quickly returned with interest by Garda. The pressure eventually told and the concession of a needless foul led to a Garda penalty. This was not the best struck shot in the world but it still found its way to the corner of the net. A couple of more excellent points and Garda had built up a deserved 2-06 to 0-02 lead.
UCC finally found some traction up front in the closing minutes of the first half. This time a high speculative ball was played into the Garda goal and although clearly in the square Pat Cremin bundled the ball over the line and as at the other end the goal stood. Garda responded with a super goal following a brilliant low shot from 15 yards to the corner of the net. A great long range point from play from Gerard McGlacken concluded the scoring for the first half and UCC trailed by nine points at the break, 3-06 to 1-03.
UCC started the second half in a much more positive manner. The move of Rory Rice to midfield and the introduction of Fergal Moloney at full back added some much needed resolve. A pointed free from Eanna Martin and a fine point from play from a tight angle by Mattie Collins reduced the lead to seven points after the opening minutes.
A long puck-out from Seamus Cronin fell kindly to Ronan Spillane who took off on a solo run from 45 yards out. He beat his own man for pace, before flicking the ball over the head of the onrushing corner back and collecting the ball at the far side. He continued goalwards and a brilliant dummy past the full back left him with only the keeper to beat. A lovely flick under the body of the keeper finished the ball to the net for a great goal. The lead was now down to five and UCC were back in the game with 15 minutes to go with the score 3-06 to 2-04.
However, this was short lived as Garda quickly upped the ante and hit a succession of fine points to restore, and subsequently extend, their nine point advantage. Garda were well on top at this stage and pinged the ball across the field to unmarked colleagues to create a number of openings. The game was fully killed off with five minutes to go when Garda scored their fourth goal.
UCC did manage scores from an Eanna Martin free and towards the end Seamus Coffey added to a ball that was played into the square which flew over the bar from his hurley. At the final whistle Cork Garda ran out deserving 12 point winners, 4-13 to 2-07, and it is they who progress to the Munster Championship.
UCC Team: 1. Seamus Cronin 2. Denis Twomey 3. Rory Rice 4. Robert Dunphy 5. John Eakins 6. Timmy Geaney 7. Dave Stafford 8. Anthony Walsh 9. Eanna Martin (0-04, 4f) 10. Pat Cremin (1-00) 11. Ger McGlacken (0-01) 12. Ronan Spillane (1-01) 13. James Ryan 14. Olan Casey 15. Mattie Collins (0-01) Subs: Fergal Moloney, Seamus Coffey (0-01), Damien Fitzgerald, Mossey Crowe, Peter Neary.
Echo Report on Drawn Junior Hurling Final
The Evening Echo (09/09) featured a report on UCC's recent draw with Cork Garda in the final of the Junior A Hurling Championship. Click to enlarge.
Coverage of Hurling Semi Final
The Evening Echo (02/09) featured pictures of the two teams from UCC's recent win over The Bank of New York in the semi final of the Junior A Hurling Championship. Click to enlarge.
The UCC players are:
Back Row: Seamus Cronin, Robert Phelan, Robert Dunphy, Mossey Crowe, John Eakins, Eanna Martin, Timmy Geaney, Ger McGlacken
Front Row: Denis Twomey, Traolach Martin, Rory Rice, Denis Murphy, Seamus Coffey, Thomas Mullane, Ronan Spillane
The Echo report of UCC's 4-15 to 3-13 win in this game published a week earlier can be read here and a similar report posted to this site is available here.
Thrilling Draw in Junior Hurling Final!
UCC and Cork Garda played out a highscoring draw in the final of the Junior A Hurling Championship. After a thrilling affair the final score was UCC 2-18 Cork Garda 4-12 with UCC full forward Gerard McGlacken hitting an instinctive point deep in stoppage time to force the draw. This was a great game in which UCC hit 2-16 from play with most of the Garda scores also coming play.
Garda had the better start of the two teams but missed a number of scoreable chances, a pattern which was to continue throughout the game. UCC settled down and Rory Doherty hit over the first of five first half points from centre forward. This was added to with an excellent point on the run from midfielder Robert Dunphy. Garda had a number of chances from play and placed balls but struggled to hit the target.
Rory Doherty was having no such difficulty at the other end and fired over a number of fine points. The UCC pressure continued to build and Ronan Spillane and Frank Hickey hit a point apiece. Two points in the space of 60 seconds from wing forward Fergal Moloney pushed UCC into a five point lead with half time approaching. The lead would not last long as Garda got in for a relatively soft goal through the UCC full back line just before the break. This meant UCC led by two points, 0-11 to 1-06.
Garda came out much stronger in the second half and aided by a slight breeze they were back on level terms within two minutes. Shortly afterwards they hit their second goal to push into the lead for the first time but they failed to build on this as they continued to hit a high number of wides. UCC responded well and points from Rory Doherty and Ronan Spillane narrowed the gap. Garda had much more possesion at this stage but many of their passes forward were intercepted by great reading of the game from UCC corner back Denis Twomey, who was the best defender on show.
UCC were struggling to win possession around midfield and the half forward line and needed to get a foothold in the game. Forceful full forward Ger McGlacken was moved to wing forward and he won some vital puck outs. Some great thinking by centre back Timmy Geaney after he was fouled saw him hit a quick free into space for Ronan Spillane who was now at full forward. Spillane took on the full back and a brilliant finish over the keeper registered UCC's first goal of the night and they regained the lead.
In keeping with the nature of the game the lead did not last long and a high ball forward was caught by the Garda full forward who finished to the net to give Cork Garda a one point lead. Garda finally found their range from frees and the teams exchanged points with a great free from the sideline keeping Garda in the lead.
UCC introduced Pat Cremin to the full forward line and he had an immediate impact hitting a goal set up by Ronan Spillane. Cremin added a great point shortly afterwards to give UCC a three point lead. With only a few minutes left it looked like this would be enough to see UCC home.
Garda pushed forward and after being forced to settle for a point from one attack they searched for the winning goal. A great chance fell their way and a ferocious shot was brilliantly saved by UCC goalkeeper Seamus Cronin. The resulting melee saw UCC awarded a free out and it seemed victory was secured as there could only be seconds left.
However play continued up and down the field until the ball found its way to the Garda corner forward who took on the defence and he struck a great shot to the top corner to give Garda a one point lead. All eyes were on the referee but there was time for one more play. Seamus Cronin hit a great puck out and that was won brilliantly by Ger McGlacken. On the turn he hit a great shot over the bar that levelled the game.
This was now to be last play of the game as the referee called for the ball from the puck out with the scores tied, 2-18 to 4-12. Both teams probably felt they could have won it as the lead ebbed and flowed in the thrilling final minutes but both will undoubtedly be happy to get a second chance.
UCC Team: 1. Seamus Cronin, 2. Kieran Hickey, 3. Rory Rice, 4. Denis Twomey, 5. Robert Phelan, 6. Timmy Geaney, 7. Peter Barry, 8. Robert Dunphy (0-01), 9. Barry Leahy, 10. Ronan Spillane (1-04, 2f), 11. Rory Doherty (0-08), 12. Fergal Moloney (0-02), 13. Frank Hickey, (0-01), 14. Ger McGlacken (0-01), 15. James Ryan. Subs Pat Cremin (1-01), John Eakins, Anthony Walsh, Damien Fitzgerald, Peter Neary
Garda had the better start of the two teams but missed a number of scoreable chances, a pattern which was to continue throughout the game. UCC settled down and Rory Doherty hit over the first of five first half points from centre forward. This was added to with an excellent point on the run from midfielder Robert Dunphy. Garda had a number of chances from play and placed balls but struggled to hit the target.
Rory Doherty was having no such difficulty at the other end and fired over a number of fine points. The UCC pressure continued to build and Ronan Spillane and Frank Hickey hit a point apiece. Two points in the space of 60 seconds from wing forward Fergal Moloney pushed UCC into a five point lead with half time approaching. The lead would not last long as Garda got in for a relatively soft goal through the UCC full back line just before the break. This meant UCC led by two points, 0-11 to 1-06.
Garda came out much stronger in the second half and aided by a slight breeze they were back on level terms within two minutes. Shortly afterwards they hit their second goal to push into the lead for the first time but they failed to build on this as they continued to hit a high number of wides. UCC responded well and points from Rory Doherty and Ronan Spillane narrowed the gap. Garda had much more possesion at this stage but many of their passes forward were intercepted by great reading of the game from UCC corner back Denis Twomey, who was the best defender on show.
UCC were struggling to win possession around midfield and the half forward line and needed to get a foothold in the game. Forceful full forward Ger McGlacken was moved to wing forward and he won some vital puck outs. Some great thinking by centre back Timmy Geaney after he was fouled saw him hit a quick free into space for Ronan Spillane who was now at full forward. Spillane took on the full back and a brilliant finish over the keeper registered UCC's first goal of the night and they regained the lead.
In keeping with the nature of the game the lead did not last long and a high ball forward was caught by the Garda full forward who finished to the net to give Cork Garda a one point lead. Garda finally found their range from frees and the teams exchanged points with a great free from the sideline keeping Garda in the lead.
UCC introduced Pat Cremin to the full forward line and he had an immediate impact hitting a goal set up by Ronan Spillane. Cremin added a great point shortly afterwards to give UCC a three point lead. With only a few minutes left it looked like this would be enough to see UCC home.
Garda pushed forward and after being forced to settle for a point from one attack they searched for the winning goal. A great chance fell their way and a ferocious shot was brilliantly saved by UCC goalkeeper Seamus Cronin. The resulting melee saw UCC awarded a free out and it seemed victory was secured as there could only be seconds left.
However play continued up and down the field until the ball found its way to the Garda corner forward who took on the defence and he struck a great shot to the top corner to give Garda a one point lead. All eyes were on the referee but there was time for one more play. Seamus Cronin hit a great puck out and that was won brilliantly by Ger McGlacken. On the turn he hit a great shot over the bar that levelled the game.
This was now to be last play of the game as the referee called for the ball from the puck out with the scores tied, 2-18 to 4-12. Both teams probably felt they could have won it as the lead ebbed and flowed in the thrilling final minutes but both will undoubtedly be happy to get a second chance.
UCC Team: 1. Seamus Cronin, 2. Kieran Hickey, 3. Rory Rice, 4. Denis Twomey, 5. Robert Phelan, 6. Timmy Geaney, 7. Peter Barry, 8. Robert Dunphy (0-01), 9. Barry Leahy, 10. Ronan Spillane (1-04, 2f), 11. Rory Doherty (0-08), 12. Fergal Moloney (0-02), 13. Frank Hickey, (0-01), 14. Ger McGlacken (0-01), 15. James Ryan. Subs Pat Cremin (1-01), John Eakins, Anthony Walsh, Damien Fitzgerald, Peter Neary
Echo Report of Hurling Semi Final
The Evening Echo (26/08) featured a report of UCC's recent win over The Bank of New York in the semi-final of the Junior A Hurling Championship. Click to enlarge.
The paper also featured two pictures from UCC's success in the Junior Football Cup earlier in the Summer. The first features stalwart Sean O'Leary at the toss before the game and the second is Rory Rice accepting the cup following UCC's win. Again click both images to enlarge.
The Echo report of the Junior Cup Final and a team photo are posted here.
The paper also featured two pictures from UCC's success in the Junior Football Cup earlier in the Summer. The first features stalwart Sean O'Leary at the toss before the game and the second is Rory Rice accepting the cup following UCC's win. Again click both images to enlarge.
The Echo report of the Junior Cup Final and a team photo are posted here.
UCC success in First Round of Murphy Cup
On Monday UCC overcame the challenge of Teagasc/Cattle Breeders in the first round of Murphy Football Cup on a scoreline of 1-13 to 0-05 in Delaneys GAA Grounds. UCC were always in control of this game and ran out convincing 11 point winners.
After some initial confusion following the toss UCC had the strong wind at their backs in the first half. A bright opening saw points scored by corner forward Don O'Connell and midfielder Colm O'Connell. After ten minutes centre forward Michael Byrne cleanly won a Teagasc 20m kickout and immediately played a great ball through to corner forward Jerry Reen who beat the corner back and rounded the retreating goalkeeper to take a great goal.
Teagasc reacted well but some poor finishing meant their response was limited to two points. UCC added further points from the lively Don O'Connell, Michael Byrne, Brendan Hallissey and Colm O'Connell, and at half time UCC led 1-08 to 0-02.
Teagasc started the second half brightly and even though they more than held their own in the possession stakes their wayward shooting continued. The UCC defence, in which Diarmuid Herlihy and Olan Casey were particularly impressive, held out under the pressure. Some great interplay between excellent midfielders Colm O'Connell and Ronan Power saw UCC extend their lead.
With 15 minutes remaining Teagasc turned their attention to getting the goal or two that would get them back into the game. As with earlier in the game many of these attacks were cut out by Diarmuid Herlihy's great reading of the play, with Robert Phelan in complete control outside him. UCC added a few late points from Colm O'Connell and Dave Prendergast to take the sting out of the Teagasc/Cattle Breeders efforts and ran out 11-point winners.
This was one of UCC's most impressive performances of the year and they await their opponents in the next round of the competition.
Team: 1. Diarmaid Hallissey 2. Bob Dunphy 3. Rory Rice 4. Diarmuid Herlihy 5. Robert Phelan 6. Olan Casey 7. Dave Stafford 8. Colm O'Connell (0-03) 9. Ronan Power (0-01) 10. Brendan Hallissey (0-01) 11. Michael Byrne (0-02, 1f) 12. Dave Prendergast (0-02) 13. Don O'Connell (0-04, 3f) 14. Barry Horan 15. Jerry Reen (1-00). Subs: Garrett Casey, Denis Lynch, Nathan Stevenson, Seamus Coffey.
After some initial confusion following the toss UCC had the strong wind at their backs in the first half. A bright opening saw points scored by corner forward Don O'Connell and midfielder Colm O'Connell. After ten minutes centre forward Michael Byrne cleanly won a Teagasc 20m kickout and immediately played a great ball through to corner forward Jerry Reen who beat the corner back and rounded the retreating goalkeeper to take a great goal.
Teagasc reacted well but some poor finishing meant their response was limited to two points. UCC added further points from the lively Don O'Connell, Michael Byrne, Brendan Hallissey and Colm O'Connell, and at half time UCC led 1-08 to 0-02.
Teagasc started the second half brightly and even though they more than held their own in the possession stakes their wayward shooting continued. The UCC defence, in which Diarmuid Herlihy and Olan Casey were particularly impressive, held out under the pressure. Some great interplay between excellent midfielders Colm O'Connell and Ronan Power saw UCC extend their lead.
With 15 minutes remaining Teagasc turned their attention to getting the goal or two that would get them back into the game. As with earlier in the game many of these attacks were cut out by Diarmuid Herlihy's great reading of the play, with Robert Phelan in complete control outside him. UCC added a few late points from Colm O'Connell and Dave Prendergast to take the sting out of the Teagasc/Cattle Breeders efforts and ran out 11-point winners.
This was one of UCC's most impressive performances of the year and they await their opponents in the next round of the competition.
Team: 1. Diarmaid Hallissey 2. Bob Dunphy 3. Rory Rice 4. Diarmuid Herlihy 5. Robert Phelan 6. Olan Casey 7. Dave Stafford 8. Colm O'Connell (0-03) 9. Ronan Power (0-01) 10. Brendan Hallissey (0-01) 11. Michael Byrne (0-02, 1f) 12. Dave Prendergast (0-02) 13. Don O'Connell (0-04, 3f) 14. Barry Horan 15. Jerry Reen (1-00). Subs: Garrett Casey, Denis Lynch, Nathan Stevenson, Seamus Coffey.
The First Game
After being refounded in 2004 UCC's first game was against Cork Airport in the first round of the Junior C Football Cup. This was not a game of much distinction and in a low scoring affair UCC lost out by a goal 2-06 to 1-06.
The team that was led out onto the field in The Farm that day by Frank Dillon was:
1. Pat Hanrahan 2. Paudie Harrington 3. Rory Rice 4. Brendan McElroy 5. Noel McCarthy 6. Brian Coffey 7. Rowan McSweeney 8. John Eakins 9. Tom Byrne 10. Dara Cott 11. Seamus Coffey 12. Thomas Murphy 13. Rob Moylan 14. Tim Crowley 15. Michael Richardson Sub. Mark Copley
The UCC goal was scored by Mike Richardson. Some five years later the soul survivors from that game are Rory Rice (still at full back!), John Eakins and Seamus Coffey.
A full list of the games played in 2004 has been added to the sidebar. This shows that UCC failed to get past the first round in all football competitions played; the Junior C Cup, Junior B Championship and Murphy Cup B. In hurling following another first round defeat in the Junior A Championship, UCC managed their sole win of the year in the semi-final of the Junior B Hurling Championship before going down to Novartis in the final.
It is hoped that a full list of fixtures (and scorelines) for all years can be put together and will be added in due course. After a poor 2004 UCC had a much better 2005 reaching both the Junior C and Junior C1 Championship Finals in football and reversing the previous year's defeat to Novartis in capturing the Junior B Hurling Championship.
The team that was led out onto the field in The Farm that day by Frank Dillon was:
1. Pat Hanrahan 2. Paudie Harrington 3. Rory Rice 4. Brendan McElroy 5. Noel McCarthy 6. Brian Coffey 7. Rowan McSweeney 8. John Eakins 9. Tom Byrne 10. Dara Cott 11. Seamus Coffey 12. Thomas Murphy 13. Rob Moylan 14. Tim Crowley 15. Michael Richardson Sub. Mark Copley
The UCC goal was scored by Mike Richardson. Some five years later the soul survivors from that game are Rory Rice (still at full back!), John Eakins and Seamus Coffey.
A full list of the games played in 2004 has been added to the sidebar. This shows that UCC failed to get past the first round in all football competitions played; the Junior C Cup, Junior B Championship and Murphy Cup B. In hurling following another first round defeat in the Junior A Championship, UCC managed their sole win of the year in the semi-final of the Junior B Hurling Championship before going down to Novartis in the final.
It is hoped that a full list of fixtures (and scorelines) for all years can be put together and will be added in due course. After a poor 2004 UCC had a much better 2005 reaching both the Junior C and Junior C1 Championship Finals in football and reversing the previous year's defeat to Novartis in capturing the Junior B Hurling Championship.
UCC Qualify for Junior A Hurling Final
In a high scoring game UCC defeated Bank of New York 4-15 to 3-13 to qualify for the final of the Junior A Hurling Championship where they will meet Cork Garda. UCC played with the aid of a strong wind in the first half but it was the Bank of New York who started best and hit the first scores of the game. UCC responded with a close range free before midfielder Eanna Martin hit an 80 yard free over the bar. This was to be the first of seven well struck frees he scored from 65 metres out and he also added some excellent long range points from play.
After 15 minutes UCC were leading by four points to three when they were awarded a 20m free. The initial goal-bound effort was deflected out for a 65 which the unerring Martin converted. Shortly afterwards Thomas Mullane got on the ball about 40 metres from the Bank of New York goal and after a strong run through the middle he finished to the net to push UCC into the lead.
Both teams exchanged points from there until the half time whistle and UCC led at the break 1-08 to 0-07, with all of their remaining scores coming from Eanna Martin as they struggled to make an impact up front. A four point lead was the least UCC needed as they turned to face the strong wind.
However UCC made a great start to the second half and had doubled their lead after a few minutes. A hard earned goal by full forward Ger McGlacken was quickly followed by a point by Eanna Martin to give an eight point lead which was more in line with what was needed against the stiff breeze.
After a relatively quiet first half UCC's defence saw much more action as UCC failed to keep the ball for long in their attacking half of the field. In this regard corner backs Denis Murphy and Denis Twomey, flanking forceful full back Rory Rice were particularly impressive.
Eventually the pressure told and the Bank of New York got in for two quick goals the second coming from a 20m free. With some impressive long range points of their own the Bank of New York had wiped out UCC's eight point advantage to draw level with 10 minutes to go. The score at this stage was 2-12 apiece with UCC again dependent on Eanna Martin for most of their scores.
With the wind at their backs it looked as if the Bank of New York would push on for victory. However the UCC forwards finally found their range and a great goal by Ronan Spillane was quickly followed by two quick-fire points from substitute James Ryan. The Bank of New York hit back with a third goal of their own to reduce the margin to two points with only a few minutes remaining. However the best they could manage in the closing minutes was a point which was quickly cancelled at the other end. As the Bank of New York pressed forward to find the winning goal to overturn the two point deficit the last play of the game saw the impressive Eanna Martin finish unmarked to the net to seal a five point win.
Team: Seamus Cronin, Denis Murphy, Rory Rice, Denis Twomey, John Eakins, Timmy Geaney, Robert Phelan, Robert Dunphy, Eanna Martin (1-10,7f), Ronan Spillane (1-01), Thomas Mullane (1-00), Traolach Martin, Mossey Crowe, Gerard McGlacken (1-01), Seamus Coffey (0-01,1f). Subs: Frank Hickey, James Ryan (0-02).
After 15 minutes UCC were leading by four points to three when they were awarded a 20m free. The initial goal-bound effort was deflected out for a 65 which the unerring Martin converted. Shortly afterwards Thomas Mullane got on the ball about 40 metres from the Bank of New York goal and after a strong run through the middle he finished to the net to push UCC into the lead.
Both teams exchanged points from there until the half time whistle and UCC led at the break 1-08 to 0-07, with all of their remaining scores coming from Eanna Martin as they struggled to make an impact up front. A four point lead was the least UCC needed as they turned to face the strong wind.
However UCC made a great start to the second half and had doubled their lead after a few minutes. A hard earned goal by full forward Ger McGlacken was quickly followed by a point by Eanna Martin to give an eight point lead which was more in line with what was needed against the stiff breeze.
After a relatively quiet first half UCC's defence saw much more action as UCC failed to keep the ball for long in their attacking half of the field. In this regard corner backs Denis Murphy and Denis Twomey, flanking forceful full back Rory Rice were particularly impressive.
Eventually the pressure told and the Bank of New York got in for two quick goals the second coming from a 20m free. With some impressive long range points of their own the Bank of New York had wiped out UCC's eight point advantage to draw level with 10 minutes to go. The score at this stage was 2-12 apiece with UCC again dependent on Eanna Martin for most of their scores.
With the wind at their backs it looked as if the Bank of New York would push on for victory. However the UCC forwards finally found their range and a great goal by Ronan Spillane was quickly followed by two quick-fire points from substitute James Ryan. The Bank of New York hit back with a third goal of their own to reduce the margin to two points with only a few minutes remaining. However the best they could manage in the closing minutes was a point which was quickly cancelled at the other end. As the Bank of New York pressed forward to find the winning goal to overturn the two point deficit the last play of the game saw the impressive Eanna Martin finish unmarked to the net to seal a five point win.
Team: Seamus Cronin, Denis Murphy, Rory Rice, Denis Twomey, John Eakins, Timmy Geaney, Robert Phelan, Robert Dunphy, Eanna Martin (1-10,7f), Ronan Spillane (1-01), Thomas Mullane (1-00), Traolach Martin, Mossey Crowe, Gerard McGlacken (1-01), Seamus Coffey (0-01,1f). Subs: Frank Hickey, James Ryan (0-02).
UCC bow out of Junior B Championship
UCC's unbeaten run for the year came to end following a four point defeat to the Bank of New York in the semi-final of the Junior B Football Championship last Monday. In a game in which UCC started brightly an inability to make full use of the chances created saw them end up on the wrong side of a 1-14 to 1-10 scoreline.
Playing against the wind UCC looked the livelier outfit and a goal created by Ronan Power and finished emphatically by corner forward Don O'Connell after eight minutes pushed UCC into the lead. As the half progressed the Bank of New York made better use of the elements and the chances created, and the teams were level at the short whistle, 1-05 to 0-08. The points for UCC came from Donal Cronin, Jack Crowley and impressive midfielder Ronan Power, whose high fielding was a feature of the game.
UCC had the wind behind them in the second half but failed to take full advantage, missing a large number of scoreable chances. Interspersed with some bad wides UCC did manage points from Don O'Connell, Donal Cronin and Ronan Power.
Some good build-up play (and an increased unwillingness to shoot) saw UCC awarded two penalties, however, neither resulted in a green flag. The first was blazed well wide and while the second did at least hit the target, it only resulted in a point following a good save from the BNY keeper. BNY were far more efficient with the possession they had and added on a number of points before a goal from a powerful shot by their replacement full forward past Diarmaid Hallissey saw them push into a six point lead.
UCC released Michael Burns from full back and he created a number of chances for the forwards but with a lack of true penetration up front the best that could be achieved was a couple of pointed frees. UCC won a number of close range frees in the dying minutes but goalbound efforts were easily diverted by the BNY defence. In the end UCC can have no complaints at the four point defeat.
Team: Diarmaid Hallissey, Kevin O'Mahony, Michael Burns, Robert Dunphy, Robert Phelan, Olan Casey, Jerry Reen, Ronan Power (0-02), Dave Stafford, Jack Crowley (0-01), Donal Cronin (0-06, 5f), Traolach Martin, Gareth Casey, Brendan Kelleher, Don O'Connell (1-01). Subs: Nathan Stevenson, Seamus Coffey.
Playing against the wind UCC looked the livelier outfit and a goal created by Ronan Power and finished emphatically by corner forward Don O'Connell after eight minutes pushed UCC into the lead. As the half progressed the Bank of New York made better use of the elements and the chances created, and the teams were level at the short whistle, 1-05 to 0-08. The points for UCC came from Donal Cronin, Jack Crowley and impressive midfielder Ronan Power, whose high fielding was a feature of the game.
UCC had the wind behind them in the second half but failed to take full advantage, missing a large number of scoreable chances. Interspersed with some bad wides UCC did manage points from Don O'Connell, Donal Cronin and Ronan Power.
Some good build-up play (and an increased unwillingness to shoot) saw UCC awarded two penalties, however, neither resulted in a green flag. The first was blazed well wide and while the second did at least hit the target, it only resulted in a point following a good save from the BNY keeper. BNY were far more efficient with the possession they had and added on a number of points before a goal from a powerful shot by their replacement full forward past Diarmaid Hallissey saw them push into a six point lead.
UCC released Michael Burns from full back and he created a number of chances for the forwards but with a lack of true penetration up front the best that could be achieved was a couple of pointed frees. UCC won a number of close range frees in the dying minutes but goalbound efforts were easily diverted by the BNY defence. In the end UCC can have no complaints at the four point defeat.
Team: Diarmaid Hallissey, Kevin O'Mahony, Michael Burns, Robert Dunphy, Robert Phelan, Olan Casey, Jerry Reen, Ronan Power (0-02), Dave Stafford, Jack Crowley (0-01), Donal Cronin (0-06, 5f), Traolach Martin, Gareth Casey, Brendan Kelleher, Don O'Connell (1-01). Subs: Nathan Stevenson, Seamus Coffey.
12 Months Ago
Last June UCC Staff defeated Project Management in the semi-final of the 2008 Junior Football Cup. A clean sheet from Diarmaid Hallissey and goals from Dave Morrissey, Don O'Connell and Noel Browne secured a 3-10 to 0-10 win. The Evening Echo carried a report of the game and also ran a photo of the UCC team. Click both images to enlarge.
First the report.
And here's the pic.
Back Row: Noel Browne, Paul Bradfield, Mick Murphy, John Eakins, Declan O'Connell, Diarmaid Hallissey, Dave Prendergast, Sean O'Leary, Mike Fitzgerald, Dave Power
Front Row: Don O'Connell, Sean O'Leary, Rory Rice, Dave Morrissey, Jerry Reen, Michael Burns, Tom Byrne
UCC came up against Novartis in the final and came out on the wrong side of a 2-12 to 2-05 scoreline. This was the last in the six-in-a-row of losing football finals and since then UCC have finally captured some football silverware with wins in the 2008 Junior B Cup and the 2009 Junior Cup.
First the report.
And here's the pic.
Back Row: Noel Browne, Paul Bradfield, Mick Murphy, John Eakins, Declan O'Connell, Diarmaid Hallissey, Dave Prendergast, Sean O'Leary, Mike Fitzgerald, Dave PowerFront Row: Don O'Connell, Sean O'Leary, Rory Rice, Dave Morrissey, Jerry Reen, Michael Burns, Tom Byrne
UCC came up against Novartis in the final and came out on the wrong side of a 2-12 to 2-05 scoreline. This was the last in the six-in-a-row of losing football finals and since then UCC have finally captured some football silverware with wins in the 2008 Junior B Cup and the 2009 Junior Cup.
Evening Echo Photo
The Evening Echo (15/07/09) ran a picture of the UCC team who were successful in the recent Beamish Junior Cup Final.
After a quarter final win over the Naval Services in the Junior B Football Championship, UCC will face the Bank of New York in the semi final. The Bank of New York's quarter final win over South West Energy Services is the featured game in the report below.
The report of the game played by pictured UCC team featured in last week's Echo and is:
Back Row: Don O'Connell, Peter Neary, Willie Fahy, Colm O'Connell, Eoin O'Leary, Donnacha Carr, Brian Kenny, Sean O'Leary, Denis Lynch, Jerry Reen
Front Row: Brendan Kelleher, Aidan Kelleher, Ronan Power, Dave Stafford, Rory Rice, Diarmaid Hallissey, Pat O'Connell, Pat Cremin, Seamus Coffey
Finally the First Round game of the Junior A Hurling Championship between UCC Staff and the Bank of New York has been fixed for Monday 20th July in Delaneys at 8pm.
After a quarter final win over the Naval Services in the Junior B Football Championship, UCC will face the Bank of New York in the semi final. The Bank of New York's quarter final win over South West Energy Services is the featured game in the report below.
The report of the game played by pictured UCC team featured in last week's Echo and is:
Back Row: Don O'Connell, Peter Neary, Willie Fahy, Colm O'Connell, Eoin O'Leary, Donnacha Carr, Brian Kenny, Sean O'Leary, Denis Lynch, Jerry Reen
Front Row: Brendan Kelleher, Aidan Kelleher, Ronan Power, Dave Stafford, Rory Rice, Diarmaid Hallissey, Pat O'Connell, Pat Cremin, Seamus Coffey
Finally the First Round game of the Junior A Hurling Championship between UCC Staff and the Bank of New York has been fixed for Monday 20th July in Delaneys at 8pm.
The "B" Sharps
The early successes for the reformed UCC Staff GAA club came in the Junior B Hurling Championship. Unlike in football where six final defeats had to be experienced before success was finally achieved, in hurling defeat in the 2004 final to Novartis was followed by a three-in-a-row success from 2005 to 2007.
Here is the team that won the 2005 final played in Shanbally where the previous year's defeat to Novartis was reversed. Click to enlarge.
Those pictured include Seamus Cronin, Olan Casey, Davy Walsh, John Eakins, Rowan McSweeney, Rory Rice, Dara Cott, Brian Daly, Brian Coffey, Tom Byrne, Sean O'Leary, Mike Richardson
12 months later UCC were back in the final and again faced Novartis. In a game in which UCC trailed in all through, it took an injury time scoring blast of a goal and a point from Dave Cashman to secure victory. This game was played under lights in Ballygarvan. Again click the image to enlarge.
Here is the team that won the 2005 final played in Shanbally where the previous year's defeat to Novartis was reversed. Click to enlarge.
Those pictured include Seamus Cronin, Olan Casey, Davy Walsh, John Eakins, Rowan McSweeney, Rory Rice, Dara Cott, Brian Daly, Brian Coffey, Tom Byrne, Sean O'Leary, Mike Richardson12 months later UCC were back in the final and again faced Novartis. In a game in which UCC trailed in all through, it took an injury time scoring blast of a goal and a point from Dave Cashman to secure victory. This game was played under lights in Ballygarvan. Again click the image to enlarge.
The three-in-a-row was completed in 2007 by some fabulous work by Frank Dillon in the corridors of power. UCC and Novartis again progressed to meet in the final. However, it was clear that both teams were under pressure to field. On the day of the final Frank didn't flinch and exuded an air of quiet confidence. Novartis cracked under the pressure and were the first to admit that they couldn't field. Without a ball being pucked Frank had secured a famous win!
In 2008 UCC stepped up a level and won the Junior A Hurling Championship against Cork Garda. This was another game in which UCC trailed and on this occassion the injury time scoring blast of a goal and a point came from Gerard McGlacken. UCC progressed to the Munster Championship where after a win over Tipperary's Wyett Pharmaceuticals from Clonmel they were defeated by Analog Devices of Limerick in the Munster Final.
Most Recent Football Final
Here is the Evening Echo (08/07/09) report on UCC's recent win over the Bank of New York in the Junior Cup Final. Click image to enlarge.
Here is a photo of the team for the final. Again click to enlarge.
Back Row: Don O'Connell, Peter Neary, Willie Fahy, Colm O'Connell, Eoin O'Leary, Donnacha Carr, Brian Kenny, Sean O'Leary, Denis Lynch, Jerry Reen
Front Row: Brendan Kelleher, Aidan Kelleher, Ronan Power, Dave Stafford, Rory Rice, Diarmaid Hallissey, Pat O'Connell, Pat Cremin, Seamus Coffey (mascot)
Here is a photo of the team for the final. Again click to enlarge.
Back Row: Don O'Connell, Peter Neary, Willie Fahy, Colm O'Connell, Eoin O'Leary, Donnacha Carr, Brian Kenny, Sean O'Leary, Denis Lynch, Jerry ReenFront Row: Brendan Kelleher, Aidan Kelleher, Ronan Power, Dave Stafford, Rory Rice, Diarmaid Hallissey, Pat O'Connell, Pat Cremin, Seamus Coffey (mascot)
First Football Final
After being reformed in 2004, the first Football Final reached was in the 2005 Junior C Championship. Here is the Evening Echo (27/07/05) report of the game, which as with all of our first six finals, ended in defeat. Click image to enlarge.
The Echo did not run a photo of the UCC team from the final but a few weeks previously (Echo 06/07/05) they did run a somewhat scratchy photo of the UCC team who overcame Project Management in the semi-final of this competition. Again click the image to enlarge.
The Echo did not run a photo of the UCC team from the final but a few weeks previously (Echo 06/07/05) they did run a somewhat scratchy photo of the UCC team who overcame Project Management in the semi-final of this competition. Again click the image to enlarge.
Some Grainy Images From The Archive
The departure of our Founding Father, Frank Dillion marked with a few drinks in Cissie Youngs (July 2008).
Frank making a point (probably that backs should mark their men)
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(or that it was definately a push in the back (1982!!))Seanie has heard it all before! .jpg)
Treasurer, Diarmaid Hallissey making a presentation to Frank as thanks for his contribution to the founding and running of the club. .jpg)
Some of the other attendees.jpg)
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UCC Defeat Naval Services in Football Championship
In the first round of the Junior B Football Championship, UCC defeated the Naval Services on a scoreline of 3-12 to 1-04. UCC made a bright start in a game that started at 13-a-side and quickly opened up a lead. The Naval Services 14th man (and their jerseys) arrived half way through the first half, but they could not stem the tide and at half time UCC lead 1-07 to 0-01. UCC's goal game from a flash finish by Irish Junior Soccer International, Robbie Butler with Donal Cronin landing some fine points from centre forward.
The second half begin with the Naval Services threatening a mini revival following a well worked goal. Rory Rice entered the fray to shore up the defence and UCC found their feet again. Goals from the excellent Donal Og O'Donovan and Denis Lynch extended UCC's advantage. The win was sealed by an outstanding point from Aussie Nathan Stevenson.
UCC now progress to meet rivals The Bank of New York in the semi-final which has been fixed for Monday 27th July.
Team (14-a-side): Brendan Kelliher, Sean O'Leary, Kevin O'Mahony, John Eakins, Donnacha Carr, Robert Phelan, Dave Stafford, Donal Og O'Donovan (1-02), Don O'Connell (0-02), Donal Cronin (0-03), Nathan Stevenson (0-01), Pat Cremin (0-01), Robbie Butler (1-00), Jerry Reen(0-01). Subs: Rory Rice, Willie Fahy, Denis Lynch(1-02), Jack Crowley
The second half begin with the Naval Services threatening a mini revival following a well worked goal. Rory Rice entered the fray to shore up the defence and UCC found their feet again. Goals from the excellent Donal Og O'Donovan and Denis Lynch extended UCC's advantage. The win was sealed by an outstanding point from Aussie Nathan Stevenson.
UCC now progress to meet rivals The Bank of New York in the semi-final which has been fixed for Monday 27th July.
Team (14-a-side): Brendan Kelliher, Sean O'Leary, Kevin O'Mahony, John Eakins, Donnacha Carr, Robert Phelan, Dave Stafford, Donal Og O'Donovan (1-02), Don O'Connell (0-02), Donal Cronin (0-03), Nathan Stevenson (0-01), Pat Cremin (0-01), Robbie Butler (1-00), Jerry Reen(0-01). Subs: Rory Rice, Willie Fahy, Denis Lynch(1-02), Jack Crowley
UCC Capture 2009 Junior Football Cup
In a lively game against the Bank of New York, UCC Staff GAA won its first Junior Cup title since being reformed in 2004. After a losing run of six football finals in a row, stretching back to 2005, UCC have now been successful in their last two. This win follows the victory over Project Management in the Junior B Cup Final at the end of last year.
The game was played in Bishopstown and UCC won on a scoreline of 3-18 to 2-10. The Man of the Match Award was presented to UCC midfielder Ronan Power after the game.
The team for the Junior Cup Final against The Bank of New York was
1 Diarmaid Hallissey, 2 Sean O'Leary, 3 Rory Rice, 4 Eoin O'Leary, 5 Donnacha Carr, 6 Dave Stafford, 7 Peter Neary, 8 Ronan Power (1-04), 9 Colm O'Connell (0-02), 10 Aidan Kelleher (1-02), 11 Brendan Kelleher, 12 Denis Lynch, 13 Don O'Connell (0-03), 14 Willie Fahy (0-02), 15 Pat Cremin (1-02)
Subs:
Jerry Reen for Denis Lynch (33 mins), Dave Prendergast (0-01) for Eoin O'Leary (35 mins), Donal Cronin (0-02) for Brendan Kelleher (40 mins), Jack Crowley for Willie Fahy (45 mins), Nathan Stevenson for Pat Cremin (45 mins), Pat O'Connell for Dave Stafford (55 mins), Mossey Crowe for Sean O'Leary (55 mins), Brian Kenny.
The game was played in Bishopstown and UCC won on a scoreline of 3-18 to 2-10. The Man of the Match Award was presented to UCC midfielder Ronan Power after the game.
The team for the Junior Cup Final against The Bank of New York was
1 Diarmaid Hallissey, 2 Sean O'Leary, 3 Rory Rice, 4 Eoin O'Leary, 5 Donnacha Carr, 6 Dave Stafford, 7 Peter Neary, 8 Ronan Power (1-04), 9 Colm O'Connell (0-02), 10 Aidan Kelleher (1-02), 11 Brendan Kelleher, 12 Denis Lynch, 13 Don O'Connell (0-03), 14 Willie Fahy (0-02), 15 Pat Cremin (1-02)
Subs:
Jerry Reen for Denis Lynch (33 mins), Dave Prendergast (0-01) for Eoin O'Leary (35 mins), Donal Cronin (0-02) for Brendan Kelleher (40 mins), Jack Crowley for Willie Fahy (45 mins), Nathan Stevenson for Pat Cremin (45 mins), Pat O'Connell for Dave Stafford (55 mins), Mossey Crowe for Sean O'Leary (55 mins), Brian Kenny.
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