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Fannin the flames
27 February 2004
There are not many footballers who operate in Cavan club football circles who have the capacity to both excite fans and frighten opponents in any given match.
Drumgoon’s Mister Versatile Keith Fannin is, thankfully, an exception to the rule. Kevin Carney reports. Keith Fannin has many strings to his bow and, more often than not, when he fires an arrow it goes straight into the heart of the opposition. I
t’s little wonder then that Drumgoon’s half-back ’cum half-forward has found favour with new Cavan boss Eamon Coleman and no wonder that as a member of both county under 21 and county senior panels, that the skilful Fannin is one of the most talked about players currently figuring at grass roots level in the Breffni County. Fannin is a fine footballer, Coleman and many others will tell you. A real individualist on the field but also a good team player whose talents have been well recognised by all and sundry au fait with the native game in Cavan.
One of his club’s most outstanding footballers, Keith Fannin is ambitious and wants to win as much as he can for Drumgoon and Cavan. He has already collected a handful of county medals with Drumgoon and in 2002 was afforded the honour of being named Cavan Intermediate Player of the Year. Surely, like all other things that he confronts on the football field, he took the honour bestowed upon him in his stride with little discomfort: “No, I was a bit surprised that I got it because there were a few other boys on the (Drumgoon) team that could have got it and David McKiernan of Denn must have been in the running too because he had a good year as well.”
But Keith understands that, more often than not, its a member of the best team around who picks up the singular gong. And seeing as the flying left-half back went and scored two points en route to picking up the man of the match award in the 2002 intermediate championship final, our man Fannin was really odds-on favourite to be afforded the Player of the Year trophy at the subsequent awards ceremony.
Funny though, Keith is the first to admit that the width of a post may well have been all that prevented the aforementioned McKiernan being lauded instead at the gala event in the spring of 2003. “John Smith almost won the final for Denn but his shot hit the post in the last minute so you never know what way things might have worked out like had Denn won that day,” Keith opines. So before the memory of that ground-breaking intermediate final dims, one wonders what are Keith’s most oustanding memories of that day.
“I remember we were missing our usual goalkeeper John Reilly but his replacement, Seamus Morris, made a great save in the first half which proved to be very important. “I remember Denn missed a few crucial frees too and it wasn’t a great game of football. “I think we showed a lot of nerves that day – it was the first time any of us had played in an intermediate final and we seemed to lose our nerve a bit at times, especially when we got the ball forward and were in a good position to have a shot at goal. “
A lot of people said that it was a poor final and I wouldn’t disagree with them. We were very nervous and Denn had a lot to loose and the two things combined made for an untidy game.” In hindsight, one suspects that the type of self-assuredness and ambition which runs through the 21-year old Fannin were the main factors which held Drumgoon in such good stead when things threatened to explode in their faces against Denn in the 2002 championship decider. “We might have been very nervous in the final itself but we didn’t lack for confidence going into the game. “Because we had played so many of the teams in the league, we knew what we were up against in the championship and we weren’t really scared of any of them.
“We thought that the title was up for grabs between us and maybe three of four others – the likes of Ballinagh and Denn – but we felt that on our day we would be a match for any of the top teams.” So how does Keith explain the tremendous success achieved by Drumgoon in winning the Junior Football Championship in 2001 and the intermediate the following year and then its consolidation of its place among the senior outfits? “The workrate of the team is a big thing and the players have a great self-belief. “
Our fitness levels over the last few years would have given us an advantage over a lot of teams too.” Keith is fulsome in his praise of the influence exerted on the team by Latton native Paddy Bates, team-manager and trainer for the last number of years.
Interestingly the senior county rookie says that while Drumgoon were “flying and on top of our game” at the time they scooped the All-Ireland junior club title, he believes that there’s a lot more in the collective tank and the current top dogs in Cavan had better watch out! “I don’t think we did ourselves justice in last year’s senior championship.
“We blew it in the quarter-final against Mullahoran when we went three points ahead and looked to be cruising. “For some reason we lost our belief in ourselves at that stage even though if Paul McCabe hadn’t been so unlucky with his goal chance, we’d probably have gone on and made the semi-final.” Did he feel meeting the Mullahorans of this world represented a major step up in class? “In general there’s not that much of a step-up from intermediate to senior level except for when you meet the top three or four teams at that grade. “The hitting is that bit harder, alright, but apart from Cavan Gaels, there isn’t that much between the teams at senior level.” Not that Keith thinks for one moment that the county town side represent the untouchables of Cavan football.
Instead, he believes that the Gaels’ strength in depth is that much more superior to that boasted by the chasing pack which he nominates as that of Gowna, Mullahoran, Bailieboro and Drumgoon. “The present Cavan Gaels side is that much quicker than the other teams. They’ve a very young team but all of the players have a string of underage medals under their belt.” But the degree of self-assuredness and even cockiness which the Gaels’ lads show is within reach of Drumgoon’s finest, Keith maintains. “The Gaels players know that they’ve won so many county titles before that it almost looks like they go out almost believing that they’re due another county title.
“They’ll probably start off the 2004 championship as favourites again and you couldn’t really argue with that. “It’s up to the other five or six teams who’ll be in the running to knock them off their perch. “I don’t think the destination of the championship next summer is a foregone conclusion.” Honoured over the years with inclusion on the Cavan county under 16 and minor teams, Keith’s elevation onto the under 21 and senior county teams has capped a rapid rise up the ratings for the player.
Just six years ago, he was dovetailing between goals, forwards and backs for a somewhat struggling Drumgoon junior team. These days he’s part of a highly-rated club side which, along with Keith, boasts of having Edward Jackson, Michael Andrew Hannon and Keith Hannon in training with Eamon Coleman’s Cavan senior crew. The Drumgoon club has come a long way in just a few years with Keith saying that things really couldn’t have gone sweeter overall. “I think it was a blessing in disguise that we didn’t go up to intermediate ranks the year Cornafean pipped us in the junior final. “I think that would have been a year too soon for us.
It was a big blow to lose to Cornafean in the way we did but the team showed great character and spirit to come back from that.” Again Keith hints at the reserves that Drumgoon can all upon ahead of their next tilt at the blue riband championship title. He firmly believes that there’s some great stuff up and coming with the likes of county minor Michael McDonald bound to add to Drumgoon’s overall potency this year and for a fair few years to come.
Not normally one for crystal ball gazing, Keith does, nevertheless, reckon that a place in the 2004 senior championship final does beckon for Drumgoon. A noted soccer player and one who has been approached once again to play in the Eircom League in 2004 by Monaghan United, Keith says that playing in the county decider later this year would really help cement his allegiance to the native game. Making the county final later this year would mean a hell of a lot to him personally and the Drumgoon club.
And what of the county scene in 2004? “An Ulster under 21 medal and a senior one too would be great,” he answers, half-joking, whole-in-earnest.
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SENIOR LADIES SHIELD
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Drumgoon are county champions
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Drumgoon 1 – 12 Ballyhaise 2 – 04
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| Drumgoon ladies put in a very good performance on saturday evening last in Ballyhaise on a glorious sunny afternoon to capture the senior shield. Despite going in as underdogs, Drumgoon dominated the game from start to finish, were first to the ball all over the pitch and thoroughly deserved their win. Drumgoon start strongly with 15 year Siobhan Mc Gorry dominating midfield with great support from the energetic Aisling Mc Dermott. Playing the long game and continually hitting the ball into space Drumgoon started racking up the scores. Muireann Mc Dermott was in great form at corner forward and she quickly shot over two points. Drumgoon had two further points from Teresa Clerkin and Ciara Farrell before Ballyhaise opened their account througha goal from julia leddy. Balyhaise were not going down without a fight and soon drew level with a point from Collette mc Caul. With both sets of defences now in command scores were hard to come by. Ballyhaise applied the pressure but great work at full back by Catherine Mc Bride kept the tide at bay. Catherine got good support throughout from Sarah Mc Cabe and Margaret Mc Bride. Michelle Murray had a point for Drumgoon shorlty before the break to leave the scores 1 – 03 to 0 – 06 at half time. Drumgoon hit a purple patch after the break and ran into an unasailable lead. Siobhan Mc Gorry went a great run upfield and passed to the equally youthful Doireann Farrell, who cooly slotted home to the net. From the kickout Fiona Murray set up Doireann again to shoot over the bar. Aisling Mc Dermott added another for Drumgoon before Ciara Farrell shot over three unanswered points. Drumgoon were now playing some of their best football in years and the large attendance thoroughly enjoyed the afternoon. Ballyhaise to their credit did not give up and had a late goal from Roisin Greenan, but it was a case of too little too late. Chairperson of the county board, Cepta Traynor presented the shield to the winning captain Teresa Clerkin. Drumgoon:- Caroline Clarke, Niamh Farrell, Catherine Mc Bride, Karen Boylan, Sarah Mc Cabe, Margaret Mc Bride, Tara Cunningham, Aisling Mc Dermott, Siobhan Mc Gorry, Fiona Murray, Ciara Farrell, Teresa Clerkin (Capt.), Muireann Mc Dermott, Michelle Murray, Doireann Farrell, Subs: Michelle Cunningham, Clare Mc Caffrey, Paula Lynch, Cora Mc Bride, Anita Mc Kitterick Ballyhaise:- Sarah Pickett, Sinead Lyons, Maired Mc cabe, Laura Masterson, Aileen Smith, Emma Nevin, Elaine O’ Reilly, Aisling O’ Reilly, Elaine O’ Reilly, Blathnaid Dunne, Aoife Costello, Yvonne Donohue, Julia Leddy, Collette Mc Caul, Roisin Greenan |
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Senior League Drumgoon 0 – 09 Bailieboro 0 – 09
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| Sunday 27th June saw Drumgoon host Balieboro in an ACFL Division 1 clash from which it was important for both teams to take ‘something’. Fresh from championship wins against Ramor and Castlerahan the previous week, Drumgoon were keen to keep the winning habit. To date, Drumgoon had secured a win over Knockbride away in the league and a draw against Castlerahan at home. At the throw in, it was Drumgoon who were first to show. Rapid movement in the forward line and the trademark close interplay resulted in the first strike from half forward Martin Clerkin veering to the right and wide. The first Balieboro attack came after four minutes with centre forward, Frank Brennabn who would prove very influential in the match, shooting just wide. It was Balieboro who registered the first score with corner forward Brian Reilly converting an 18m free in the fifth minute. It wasn’t until the eighth minute that Drumgoon secured their first score of the game, coming from a fine passage of play, and converted by the newly-wed Martin Clerkin. Early Lead Drumgoon edged into the lead in the 12th minute when a promising move through the middle resulted in a free from 25m, which was confidently converted by Niall Fortune. Attempts from Paul McCabe and a free from Keith Fannin went narrowly wide before a brace of points from Niall Fortune, both from frees, pushed Drumgoon into a 4 points to 1 point lead after 24 minutes of play. Drumgoon now appeared comfortably in control, and on the 25th minute, Fortune struck again, this time from play to stretch the gap to four. But Balieboro were to finish the half strongly. Charlie Clarke at midfield fielded well and delivered a long pass to his midfield partner Mulhall, who struck cleanly over the bar. Then on the stroke of half-time, a close in free was converted by Brennan to bring Balieboro back into the game, finishing the half down two points at Drumgoon 0:05, Balieboro 0:03 Battling Performance Balieboro were first to strike in the second half with Brennan again converting from play. After six minutes, a passage of play from the Drumgoon half-back line resulted in a finely taken point from Paul McCabe following a pacey run from Niall McIntyre. Keith Fannin’s trusty left foot extended the Drumgoon advantage to 3 points with a free on the eighth minute of the half, before Brennan struck twice more before the end of the third quarter, with a converted free, followed by a well taken 45. The game was now finely balanced, with Drumgoon leading by the narrowest of margins. From the kick-out, Reilly’s clearance was fielded by Edward Jackson who delivered to Jim McNally. McNally delivered through Keith Fannin and on to Brian Bates. Bates connected with Philip McDermott who fired over the bar to restore the margin to two points. Two minutes later, a searing run off the half back line by Michael Hannon deserved better as the final strike passed narrowly wide of the left upright. Into the final minutes, Balieboro found themselves two points down with two minutes plus injury time remaining. Then in a three minute spell, Brennan struck three times, once from play and twice from free’s, to push Balieboro into an unlikely lead with the clock ticking down. In fact, Balieboro could have closed the game out, but for a tremendous save from Drumgoon ‘keeper’ John Reilly in the dying minutes of ordinary. With three minutes of injury time up, Drumgoon rallied and again launched an attack on the Balieboro defence. This time, Sean Clerkin was fouled on the left-side of the field, in a difficult position for the free-taker. However, the sure-footed Fortune cooly slotted the 21m free between the posts to secure a share of the points for the home team, and what was probably a fair result on the day. Scorers: Drumgoon: N. Fortune : 5 points, M. Clerkin, P. McDermott, P. McCabe, K Fannin one point each Balieboro: F Brennan 0:07 (5 frees), R Mulhall 0:01, B O’Reilly 0:01 Drumgoon: John Reilly, Paul Mc Enroe, Paul Crosson, Niall Mc Entyre, Edward Jackson, Michael Hannon, Keith Fannin, Jim Mc Nally, Michael Mc Donald, Paul Mc Cabe, Niall Fortune, Martin Clerkin, Bryan Bates, Philip Mc Dermott and Sean Clerkin Referee: Martin Brady |
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Under 12 Roinn “B” Final Drumgoon 2 – 07 Ballyhaise 3 – 02
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| The sun shone on Kingspan Breifne Park on Thursday last for the Roinn B U12 football final between Castlertara/Ballyhaise and Drumgoon. The Castletara team came into the final as slight favourites having defeated Drumgoon by the narrowest of margins in the early rounds of the competition. Castletara were however taking nothing for granted against a fast paced Drumgoon team who had won the Roinn C title in 2003 with a victory over Shercock, and now contested the Roinn B final at the first attempt. At the throw in, it was Castletara who were first to show, with a short period of sustained pressure on the Drumgoon goal, led by the midfield pairing of Francis McConnell and Francis Moore. The Drumgoon defence, led by Tommy McKitterick at full back and Martin Fitzpatrick at centre-half were resolute, and it was Drumgoon who struck the first blow after 4 minutes when interplay between Conor Moynagh at midfield and Martin Fitzpatrick saw the centre-half convert the first point. Goal Chances Drumgoon continued to convert possession into scores with a well taken point from play by Jason Taylor and a converted free from Peter McGorry. However, on the fourteenth minute, a breakaway movement from the Castletara defence isolated corner forward Aoghan Moran, who struck a well executed goal past Declan Smith in the Drumgoon goal to level the scores. A further Castletara point was cancelled out when Fitzpatrick struck again for Drumgoon but it was Castletara who concluded the first half scoring with a point in the final moments from Ryan Brennan to leave the half time score Castletara 1:02, Drumgoon 0:04. Midfield Strength The second half opened with the same fast pace that featured in the first. The Drumgoon midfield were now gaining the upper hand, with Conor Moynagh fielding posession, and Elaine Clerkin controlling the influential Francis McConnell. Moynagh fed through to Martin Fitzpatrick who converted the opening score of the second half for Drumgoon, to bring the sides level. Moynagh then scored another point from play, taking a pass from Peter McGorry, to give Drumgoon the lead again at 0:06 to 1:02. Undaunted, it was Castletara who then rallied to once again breach the Drumgoon defences. A long ball out of defence from Sean McCabe found Dara Prior in the clear, and interplay between Shane Tiernan and Aogan Moran resulted in a second goal for Castletara. Now two points down, the Drumgoon team responded accordingly. Direct from the kick-out, Mark Murray delivered the ball through midfield to an increasingly influential Sean Meehan. Seans pass found Gary Lavery who struck the ball past James Rooney on the Castletara goal line to restore the Drumgoon advantage to a single point. From the kick-out, Moynagh collected at midfield and running at the Castletara lines, struck the ball over the bar to increase the gap to two points. Thrilling Finish In a thrilling climax, Castletara again rallied. Playing out of defence, Eoin Summers found Stephen Brown whose speculative shot deceived the Drumgoon defence and fell to the net. Castletara now led by one point with four minutes remaining. The Drumgoon team now rallied, and working the ball out of the back line, Ronan McDonald delivered to Deirdre Mahon on the halfback line. Ryan Harkin collected the clearance and found Sean Meehan in the large square who finished to the net. With the clock ticking down, Drumgoon now led by two points, 2:07 to Castletara’s 3:02. This was to be the final score, and amid inevitable scenes of celebration, team Captain Ryan Harkin collected the Roinn B League Cup for Drumgoon for the first time, in this the clubs centenary year. For Drumgoon, this was a fine team performance. Declan Smith consolidated a fine season in goal with another good performance. The full back line was solid, led by an impressive Tommy McKitterick, and ably assisted by Barry Cooney and Ronan McDonald. At centre half, Martin Fitzpatrick, who scored three points, showed his now typical determination, while Mark Murray, Deirdre Mahon and Ciaran Pierson all illustrated creative defensive abilities. At midfield, both Conor Moynagh and Sean Meehan never stopped running, creating chances and closing down a talented Castletara pairing. Ryan Harkin led the Drumgoon attack, with Gary Lavery and Peter McGorry always menacing. On the full forward line, Jason Taylor and Elaine Clerkin took scores well and always threatened the Castletara defence, ably supported by Francis McCabe and Aaron McArdle. For a ‘never-say-die’ Castltara team, Goalkeeper Paul Stallus, defenders Darrenn Rahill, Sean McCabe and Lauren Carville impressed. At Midfield, Francis McConnell and Francis Moore made life difficult for Drumgoon, while a potent attack saw inspiring play from Aogan Moran, Dara Prior, Shane Tiernan, Ryan Brennan, Niall Conaty and Stephen Brown. Teams: Drumgoon: D. Smith, B. Cooney, T. McKitterick, R. McDonald, C. Pierson, M. Fitzpatrick (0:03), M. Murray, C. Moynagh (0:02), S. Meehan (1:0), P. McGorry (0:01), R. Harkin, G. Lavery (1:0), E. Clerkin, F. McCabe, J. Taylor (0:01) Subs: D. Mahon, A. McArdle Castletara: P. Stallus, J. Rooney, E. Carville, D Rahill, E. Summers, J McCabe, L Culleton, F. McConnell, F. Moore, S. Brown, R. Brennan, N. Connaughton, D Prior, S. Tiernan, A. Moran Referee: Tony McDonald |
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Senior Championship Drumgoon 2 – 08 Castlerahan 1 – 09
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| Drumgoon recorded their second win in the 2004 senior championship, when they defeated a galant castlerahan side in Bailieboro on a showery sunday afternoon. In a game that both sides had their periods of supremacy, it looked as if Gene Cusack’s Castlerahan side would hold out for a narrow win. However, Drumgoon never gave in and they were rewarded for their efforts with a late winning goal from Paul Mc Cabe. With county star Sean Brady ably assisted by Paul Brady the Castlerahan side dominated the midfield sector in the opening half and were good value for their 0-7 to 0-3 at the break. Drumgoon started nervously and only Paddy Mc Cabe was getting onto the scoreboard for them. At half time Castlerahan led by 7 points to Paddies 3. The second half seen a totally transformed Drumgoon team as they started to battle with all their traditional qualities. Paddy again scored a point followed by by a well taken goal by Sean Clerkin that brough them right back into the game. With Jim Mc Nally and Michael Mc Donald finally getting going in the middle the scores started to flow. Keith Fannin and Niall Fortune had points for Drumgoon to send them into the lead. Castlerahan struck back with a goal but Drumgoon responded well when Paul Mc Cabe stole though and collly slotted to the net to give Paddy Bates side a deserved win.. Drumgoon: John Reilly, Ronan Crosson, Edward Jackson, Niall Mc Entyre, Paul Mc Enroe, Michael Hannon, Keith Fannin, Jim Mc Nally, Michael Mc Donald, Niall Fortune, Martin Clerkin, Sean Clerkin, Paddy Mc Cabe, Paul Mc Cabe, Bryan Bates Castlerahan: Charlie Clerkin, Sean Fitzpatrick, John Flynn, Fiachra Sweeney, Dane Smith, John Clarke, Johnnie Lynch, Paul Brady, Sean Brady, Nigel Duignan, Paddy Cusack, Ciaran Lynch, Paul Farrelly, Michael Caldwell, Enda Mulvey. |
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Senior League Drumgoon 1-9 Knockbride 1-4
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| Drumgoon edged out Knockbride in an entertaining tie in Kingscourt on Friday evening last.Drumgoon got off to a perfect start when an in form Jim McNally scored one of the fastest goals in the history of the game. Jim won the throw in, played a one-two will Philip McDermott and duly stuck the ball in the back of the net. With Jim and Paul McEnroe dominating midfield Drumgoon continued to pile on the pressure. Drumgoon had points from Philip McDermott and Niall Fortune before Knockbride opened their account through Niall Reilly. Drumgoon responded well when the inspirational Keith Fannin hit three unanswered points.Before the break Darragh Smith shot over for Knockbride to leave the scoreline 1-05 to 0-02 in Drumgoons favour at half time. Knockbride started the second half in a more determined mood and Raphael Rogers went on a mazy run and shot to the net.Raphael was unluckey to see another effort go wide and another brilliantly saved by Drumgoon keeper John O’ Reilly. Drumgoon with the youthful Edward Gaffney making an impressive senior debut earned two frees which Niall Fortune cooly slotted over to settle Drumgoon nerves. Knockbride did try hard to get back into the game but they found Niall McEntyre and Paul Crosson in top form in the Drumgoon defence. Michael Hannon found Philip McDermott for another score.Knockbride replyed through Niall Reilly.With time running out Paul Mc Cabe earned a free for Drumgoon and Niall Fortune completed the scoring. Best for Drumgoon: Jim McNally, Keith Fannin, Paul Crosson, Niall Mc Entyre and Edward Gaffney. Best for Knockbride: David Traynor, Ciaran Lynch, Raphael Rogers and Niall Reilly. Drumgoon: John Reilly, Barry Crosson, Paul Crosson, Niall McEntyre, Edward Jackson, Michael Hannon, Ronan Crosson, Jim McNally, Paul McEnroe, Philip McDermott, Niall Fortune, Paul McCabe, Niall Clerkin, Keith Fannin, Edward Gaffney. Knockbride: Ronan Keskin, Declan Reilly, David Traynor, Dermot O’Brien, Michael Donohue, Ciaran Lynch, Michael Clarke, Peter Reilly, Ollie Mulvey, Seamus Carroll, Niall Reilly, Adrian Rogers, Seamus O’Brien, Raphael Rogers, Daragh Smith. Referee: Michael Henry |
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Under 14 League Drumgoon 6 – 12 Lacken 2 – 02
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| Drumgoon under 14 boys had a good win over Lacken on Boyle Park on Thursday last. Drumgoon got off to a good start with points from a fast running Tommy O’ Brien and an opportunistic goal from the elusive Aogan Farrell. Pauric Mc Gorry was in great form at midfiled and he piled on the scores for Drumgoon with several well taken points from a long distance out that the seniors would be proud of. Lacken opened their account through Fergal Brady and Drumgoon responded with a well taken goal by Dylan Bates. With Eamon Mc Cluskey and Daniel Byrne well on top in defence, Lacken found it hard to make the break through and the break Drumgoon led on a scoreline of 2 – 6 to 0 – 2. In the second half Drumgoon took up where they had earlier left off. Good inter play between Mark Harnett and Shane Smith set up Jamie Smith for a goal. Lacken fought back with a goal from Thomas Brady. Conor Moynagh cleared his lines, found Francis Mahon who fed Michael O’ Brien the perfect pass and Michael shot to the net. Drumgoon now had their tails up and two brilliant goals from Tommy O’ Brien seen them run out easy winnersPaul Daly, Damien Mc Gorry, Eamon Mc Cluskey, Daniel Byrne, Conor Moynagh, Brendan Mc Cabe, Luke O’ Brien, Tommy O’ Brien, Pauric Mc Gorry, Shane Smith, Francis Mahon, Jamie Smith, Aogan Farrell, Michael O’Brien, Dylan Bates, subs used, Ashleigh Boylan, Martin Fitzpatrick, Garry Lavery, Tommy Mc Kitterick | |
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Under 14 League
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Drumgoon 7 – 13 Killeshandra 2 – 10
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| Brendan McCabe, Conor Moynagh, Eamon McCluskey,Daniel Byrne, Luke O’Brien, Mark Harnett, Francis Mahon 1-0, Tommie O’Brien 1 – 1, Padraig McGorry 0 – 3, Shane Smith 0 – 2 Michael O’Brien, Jamie Smith 1 – 0, Aogan Farrell 1 – 1, Paul Smith 1 – 2, Ashleigh Boylan 0 – 2, Dylan Bates 2-2, Daniel Boylan, Ryan Harkin | |
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SENIOR CHAMPIONSHIP 2004
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DRUMGOON 0 – 10 RAMOR UTD 0 – 08
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DRUMGOON OVER FIRST HURDLE
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| Drumgoon defeated Ramor Utd on Saturday 2/5/04 on a beautiful evening in Bailieboro. With conditions perfect for football, both sides played very well and in the end, Drumgoon ran out deserving winners. Despite having four players make their senior debut, Drumgoon got into the game right from the start and always looked the more determined side. They were first on the scoreboard when their influential midfielder Michael Mc Donald shot over from long range. Michael had earlier in the day played for Cavan minors in the final of the Ulster league. However the earlier game seem to only warm him up as his tremendous work rate thoughout the hour was the foundation that Drumgoon’s victory was built upon. Drumgoon went further ahead when Colm Hannon shot over and shortly an inform Paul Mc Cabe added to their tally. Keith Soden and Paddy Mc Namee replied for Ramor. A strong run up the field by Michael Andrew Hannon resulted in another point for Drumgoon. Good work by Paul Crosson in the Drumgoon defence set up Paddy Mc Cabe to add the Drumgoon’s tally. Ramor came back again through Paddy Mc Namee. Points from Keith Fannin and Jim Mc Nally added to Drumgoons tally before Martin Clerkin sent over a long range effort to become the eight Drumgoon player to score in the first half. Keith Soden had another point for Ramor to leave the scores 0 – 8 to 0 – 5 in Drumgoon favour at half time. In the second halfl points from Keith Fannin and Michael Mc Donald seen Drumgoon go into a five point lead. However Ramor struck back with points from Keith Soden to stay in contention.Good work in the Drumgoon defence by Edward Jackson set Keith Fannin to shoot over. In a tension filled closing period Colm Hannon finally settled the Drumgoon nerves when he had the final score of the game. Best for Drumgoon in an all round team performance were Michael Mc Donald, Edward Jackson, Michael Hannon, Martin Clerkin and Paul Mc Cabe. Best for Ramor, Ray Cole, Keith Soden, Paddy Mc Namee and P. Kermath Drumgoon: John O’ Reilly, Barry Crosson, Paul Crosson, Niall Mc Entyre, Paul Mc Enroe, Michael Hannon, Edward Jackson, Jim Mc Nally, Michael Mc Donald, Martin Clerkin, Colm Hannon, Paul Mc Cabe, Paddy mc Cabe, Keith Fannin, Niall Fortune Subs used:- Bryan Bates Ramor Utd:– F. Conway, D. Sheridan, P. Kermath, B. Fitzsimons, R. Fitzsimons, P. Brennan, N. Mc Hugo, R. Cole, D. Mc Donald, D. Morgan, G. Daly, S. Cole, R. Keating, K. Soden, P. Mc Namee Referee:- Brian Seagrave |
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PADDY FOX MEMORIAL TOURNAMENT FINAL
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LATTON WIN PULSATING FINAL.
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LATTON 0-16 AGHABOG 1-12
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| Latton retained the magnificent Paddy Fox memorial cup when they defeated Aghabog in a pulsating game of football on Boyle Park on Sunday last. The final was blessed with a beautiful sunny afternoon and perfect conditions for playing football. Aghabog started the livelier side and were first on the scoreboard through team captain Brendan O’Brien. Declan Dolan was deadly accurate from frees and he added to their tally before Finbar Fitzpatrick opened Latton’s account. Francis Dolan edged Aghabog further ahead through a brilliant long range effort and Latton replied through flying midfielder Noel Coyle who started the move in his own half and still managed to get on the end of the move to fist the ball over the bar. Aidan Brady had another good long range effort to finish the scoring for the first half. At half time Aghabog led on a scoreline of O-1O to O-6, in the second half Latton introduced some new players and the tide eventually turned their way. The game was now being played at championship pace as both sides gave their all to capture the coveted trophy. Latton’s full forward Hugh McElroy hit three unanswered points to bring Latton right back into the game. The large attendance were on their toes right to the end as fortunes swung from side to side. No sooner had Hugh McElroy put Latton ahead for the first time in the match than Aghabog replied with a goal from Francis Dolan following a mix up in the Latton defence. Latton to their credit stuck manfully to their task and kept chipping away at Aghabog’s lead. Excitement in the packed stand was at fever pitch when Hugh McElroy shot Latton into the lead. Aghabog tried manfully for the levelling score but Latton’s greater experience was enough to see them through by the narrowest of margins. Seamus Fox presented the winning trophy to the Latton captain Brendan Lennon. Seamus thanked the organisers for a magnificent tournament and congratulated both teams on a splendid game of football. Gene McEnroe presented the man of the match award to HughMcElroy on behalf of Andy McCann. Best for Latton were HughMcElroy ,Noel Coyle ,Ruairi Ward and Finbar Fitzpatrick. Best for Aghabog were Francis Dolan, Declan Dolan, Brendan O Brien and Garry McBride. Latton. S.Farmer, Alan McEntee, Ruaire Ward, Michael Duffy, Hugh Lennon, Ciaran Lennon, Paul Fitzpatrick, Kevin Hughes Noel Coyle, David Lennon, Finbar Fitzpatrick, Karl Conlon, Paddy Shannon, Hugh McElroy.Brendan Lennon , John O Brien Aghabog D. McCarville, P. O Brien, E. Croarkin, K. Quigley, P.Greenan, G.McBride, M.McBride,G.McAdam, A.Brady.B.O’Brien, F. Dolan, B.McCarville, D.Smith, S. Mulligan,S.O.Brien. Referee. Gerry Mc.Dermott (Kill) |
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| Minors record good win | |
| Lacken / Ballymachugh 1 – 6 Drumgoon 3 – 11 | |
| Adam Bates, Gene Mc Donald, John Fitzpatrick, Cathal Smith, Niall Mc Entyre, Michael Murray, Michael Mc Donald, Paul Mc Bride, Conor Bates, Darren Pearson, Patrick Hughes, Edward Gaffney, Sean Smith, Subs Used:- Martin Hughes, Killian Kelly, Shane Carragher Scorers Conor Bates 1 – 02, Edward Gaffney 0 – 5, Sean Smith 1 – 01, Darren Pearson 1 – 01, Michael Mc Donald 0 – 2 |
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PADDY FOX TOURNAMENT
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| Drumgoon 0 – 11 Latton 1 -12 Latton just edged out Drumgoon in the first game of the annual Paddy Fox Tournament. Despite the inclement weather both sides play some fine football and in the end the goal was the difference. Drumgoon played very well thoughout and only tired at the end. Both sides took some fine long distance scores in spite of the inclement weather, especially Jim Mc Nally for Drumgoon and Hugh Mc Elroy for Latton. The youthful Micheal Mc Donald had a fine game at midfield and dominated for long periods. The forwards played well as a unit but in the end Latton’s greater experience won the day. Scorers for Drumgoon, Paul Mc Cabe 0 – 3, Jim Mc Nally 0 – 2, Bryan Bates 0 – 2, Philip Mc Dermott 0 – 1, Paddy Mc Cabe 0 – 1, Niall Clerkin 0 – 1, Niall Fortune 0 – 1John Reilly, Niall Mc Entyre, Paul Crosson, Niall Crosson, Barry Crosson, Keith Fannin, Niall Clerkin, Jim Mc Nally, Michael Mc Donald, Bryan Bates, Niall Fortune, Philip Mc Dermott, Paul Mc Cabe, John Mc Donald, Paddy Mc Cabe, Subs: Colm Crosson, Michael Murray, Paul Mc Enroe, Gerry Hughes |
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| Vocational Schools Camogie Final St. Aidan’s take title In a very competitive final of the Vocational Schools camogie competition which took place in Rathluden Park, Cootehill between Cavan Vocational and St Aidans Comprehensive, Cootehill the home side were victors on a scoreline of 2-1 to 1-0. Although scores were hard to come by on the day, both sides turned in good performances in a game that was dominated by the respective defences. The Cavan school led at the interval by 1-0 to 0-1, and were full value for their lead. However, the Cootehill side upped their performance in the second-half and had the satisfaction of keeping their opponents scoreless in the second-half. In the end they got through for the vital scores that gave them a well deserved success. The St. Aidans team-captain Fiona Murray was presented with the winning trophy by Cavan Camogie Board PRO, Philip McDonald. St. Aidans – Carmel McBride, Christine McCut-cheon, Claire O’Brien, Niamh Farrell, Sarah McCabe, Fiona Murray, Siobhain McGorry, Tara Cunningham, Siobhain Smith, Doireann Farrell, Caroline Mullen, Caoimhe Smith, Subs – Mary Fitzpatrick, Karen Mc Menamin, Carol Kissane, Cora McBride, Karen Kelly, Angela Galligan, Cliona Farrell. Cavan Vocational – Antoinette O’Reilly, Lisa Lynch, Oniosa Sorohan, Michele Corrigan, Suzanne Higgins, Aisling Reilly, Sabrina Sorohan, Emer Smith, Brenda Goldrick, Emer O’Callaghan. Subs – Amanda Galligan, Anne Marie McKiernan, Aisling Corrigan, Margaret Reilly, Phoebe Brady. Referee: Phil McDonald from Bailieborough Shamrocks.[[gdlr_skill_bar percent=”50″ |
2001/2002 All Ireland Junior Champions
Drumgoon 1-14 Belmullet 0-12
The All Ireland winning Drumgoon team was:- John Reilly, Jimmy Reilly, Colm Hannon, Martin Clerkin, Keith Fannin, Michael Hannon, Paul Mc Enroe, Jim Mc Nally, Edward Jackson (Capt.), Paddy Mc Cabe, Ian Reilly, Philp Mc Dermott, Bryan Bates, Adrian Crosson, Seamus Morris Subs Peter Hand, Paul Crosson, Ronan Crosson, Paul Mc Cabe, Barry Crosson, John Mc Donald, Colm Crosson, Niall Fortune, Niall Crosson, Shane Mc Gorry, Sean Clerkin, Gerry Hughes
Team mentors Paddy Bates, Michael Fitzpatrick, Michael Hannon
All Ireland Junior Club Football Final
Drumgoon 1 – 14 Belmullet 0 – 12
At Cremartin in County Monaghan, Drumgoon became the first club from Cavan ever to capture an adult Football All Ireland Cub title. They won the All Ireland Junior Club title on saturday evening, deservedly defeating the Connacht champions, Belmullet from Co. Mayo in the Final. Having performed very well all through this competition, defeating Doohamlet from Co. Monaghan in the Ulster final and then the Leinster champions, An Tochar from Roundwood, in Co. Wicklow in the semi-final, Drumgoon once again put in a very good performance. This was a highly entertaining free flowing game, thoroughly enjoyed by the large attendance. Fielding a full strength team for the first time this year, Drumgoon were slow to get used to their changed line out and it was Belmullet that got off to the best start. Brian Lynch (2) and Michael Gaynard shot Belmullet into a 3 point lead before Drumgoon opened their account. A driving run forward by their versatile wing back, Keith Fannin resulted in Keith shooting over from wide out on the left. Adrian Crosson operating at full forward got the first of his three points, before Philip Mc Dermott brought things level for Drumgoon. With Belmullet shading it at midfield, it took brilliant play from the Drumgoon half back line to stem the tide. Centre half back, DCU student, Michael Andrew Hannon, despite a high speed spin from Dublin to make the game with minutes to spare following an exam, was in excellent form. Michael continued to drive the play forward and the constant presure had to pay off. Ian Reilly was back to his brilliant best on the forty for Drumgoon and he shot over to give Drumgoon the lead for the first time. Brian Lynch shot over an excellent point for Belmullet from wide on the left before the strong running Philip Mc Dermott replied with a similiar score for Drumgoon. At half time Drumgoon led on a scoreline of 0 – 8 to 0 – 6. In the second half Belmullet came out with all guns blazing and points from Stephen Carolan and Paddy Barrett brough them right back into contention. However with a slight breeze on their backs, Drumgoon were never going to give up the fight. A good clearance out if defence by Colm Hannon found his younger brother Michael. Michael surged forward covering at least 70 yards before attempting to shoot over the bar. Michael’s shot fell short and deceived David Padden in the Belmullet goals. The Belmullet keeper knocked the ball forward and fastest to re-act was the in rushing Edward Jackson, who shot to the net. With their tails now up Drumgoon played some excellent passing football and had two more points from Philip Mc Dermott and Ian Reilly. Belmullet were not going to give up without a fight and in the final five minutes launched an all out assault on the Drumgoon goals. Luckily, for Drumgoon their keeper John Reilly was in top form and pulled off two world class saves. Belmullet also struck the crossbar in a final attack, but Drumgoon were not going to be denied their finest hour. This was a tremendous display of football from a club with only half a parish to pick from and until last year had never won a county championship title. Belmullet were very dis-appointed to loose as they also are an excellent side and currently are leading their League in Mayo. Their county star and captain Stephen Carolan was very well contained by Keith Fannin. In all round team performance it is difficult to nominate Drumgoon’s best players but their were sterling performances from Philip Mc Dermott, Michael Hannon, Ian Reilly, Keith Fannin and John Reilly.
There were fears in Monaghan at the weekend also that the inclement weather might cause the cancellation of the All-Ireland final in the junior club tournament which is organised by the Cremartin club but the fixture went ahead and produced a hugely entertaining, free flowing game that attracted a very big crowd to the mid-Monaghan venue.
In the end it was celebration for Cavan club side Drumgoon who added the All Ireland title to their Cavan Junior championship of last year, the latter their first ever championship title at county level and their progress in the series of games in this tournament augurs well for their future in the higher grades.
The competition itself has been a huge success and it’s success is a great tribute to everyone concerned in the Cremartin club for the many hours of unseen work that has been put in by so many people. Initially the competition was to be a provincial club series but having realised that there was such a competition in the other three provinces Cremartin sought approval from Croke park to move it on to All-Ireland level. After a series of very entertaining games with clubs from Tyrone, Derry, Armagh, Down, Antrim Donegal, Cavan and Monaghan it was a local derby final between Doohamlet and Drumgoon, a match that was won convincingly in the end by the Cavan Junior champions.
Vindicated
The form Drumgoon showed in those games was vindicated further with an all Ireland semi final victory against An Tochar, Roundwood, Co. Wicklow, while last Saturday’s finalists, Bellmullet contested the second All Ireland semi final with the Kerry and Munster champions St.Michaels/Foilmore.
Part of the success of the tournament has been that it has allowed the Junior Champions in the respective counties to progress to a higher stage and the commitment of all the clubs that took part was exemplary.
Club football is the very basis of the survival of Gaelic games and affording the junior clubs the opportunity to compete on a provincial and all Ireland stage can only be of benefit to everyone concerned and the game of football in general.
The final itself produced a fitting climax to what has been a great series of matches with the game delicately balanced until Edward Jackson scored the only goal of the game in the 18th minute of the second half for an advantage that Bellmullet could not wipe out despite their best efforts.
Hard work is the ethic in Drumgoon’s game and in this regard a number of players contributed above and beyond the call of duty with Colm Hannon at full back and Michael Andrew Hannon at centre half back marshalling their defensive forces effectively while left half back Keith Fannin, showed his penchant for attacking with some great forays into enemy territory that yielded four points.
Ultimately however it was the grit and accuracy of their three half forwards that secured victory for Drumgoon with the tireless Philip Mc Dermott getting through a mountain of work even if he was a little restricted after suffering a heavy tackle in the second half. Adrian Crosson showed some touches of class on the forty and Ian O’ Reilly underlined what a valuable player he is with four excellent points. Belmullet launched an all out assault on the Drumgoon goal in the dying minutes but the Drumgoon keeper, John O’ Reilly was in top class form and made three excellent saves.
For Bellmullet it only happened in short bursts at the beginning of the game and at the start of the second half, but if was the fact that their three star performers in previous matches, particularly Billy Joe Paden and Michael Gaynard were effectively shackled that saw their influence reduced. The staging of this tournament was a courageous decision by the Cremartin club. And its success this year means that it is well on its way to establishing itself as a permanent fixture in the gaa calendar. For Drumgoon its celebration time again and irrespective of future honours their victory on Saturday last is a first that will be cherished in the years ahead.
For Belmullet Brian Lynch, Kieran Lavelle, Pauric Keane and Johnny Sweeney were all to the fore.
Scorers for Drumgoon, Keith Fannin, (0 – 4), Ian Reilly (0 – 4), Philip Mc Dermott, (0 – 3), Adrian Crosson (0 – 3), Edward Jackson (1 – 0).
Scorers for Belmullet, Brian Lynch, (0 – 5), Stephen Carolan (0 – 2), Pauric Keane, (0 – 1), Paddy Barrett (0 – 1), Johnny Sweeney (0 – 1), Tony Geraghty (0 – 1), Michael Gaynard (0 – 1)
DRUMGOON:- John Reilly, Jimmy Reilly, Colm Hannon, Martin Clerkin, Keith Fannin, Michael Hannon, Paul Mc Enroe, Jim Mc Nally, Edward Jackson (Capt.), Paddy Mc Cabe, Ian Reilly, Philp Mc Dermott, Bryan Bates, Adrian Crosson, Seamus Morris Subs Peter Hand, Paul Crosson, Ronan Crosson, Paul Mc Cabe, Barry Crosson, John Mc Donald, Colm Crosson, Niall Fortune, Niall Crosson, Shane Mc Gorry, Sean Clerkin, Gerry Hughes
BELMULLET:- David Padden, Ian Mc Cafferkey, Cathal Healey, Eamonn Dixon, Pauric Keane, Derek Mc Donnell, Kieran Lavelle, Paddy Barrett, Johnny Sweeney, Andy Howard, Billy Joe Padden, Stephen Carolan (Capt), Brian Lynch, Michael Gaynard, Tony Geraghty Subs: M. Kilroy, K. Lally, D. Sweeney.
Referee: B. McNally (Cremartin).