Downs U10 Tournament

By Club

September-26-2015

It was a day to restore your faith in what the GAA is all about. We had played Emmet Og Killoe of Longford in the final of the Downs U10 tournament at the end of August. With the scores tied deep into extra time, there was a sickening collision between two Killoe players which required a trip to hospital for both players. In the circumstances, both teams graciously agreed to share the Pat Walsh Trophy for the year. We were quite happy that Killoe took the trophy home for the …first six months, if for no other reason than to cheer up the two injured lads. A couple of weeks ago, we got a call from Killoe inviting us to play a challenge match as part of their celebrations for the 40th anniversary of their juvenile club. We were delighted to oblige and travelled up today to kick-off their day of celebration. Before the match started, Killoe handed over the Pat Walsh trophy to O’Mahonys, despite them only having it for 4 weeks, a gesture which was much appreciated. The match itself was a stunning display of football from both teams, with O’Mahonys U10s treating us to one of their best displays of the year. Harry St. Ledger got the ball rolling for O’Mahonys with a brilliant goal. Our backs, Evan Cully, Sean Betson, Adam Fagan, Jamie Maguire and Dylan Maguire gave a masterful display of disciplined defending throughout the 50 minutes of football. Eoghan Nugent and Padraic McEvoy were majestic at midfield and both contributed some vital scores. Up front, Jack Quinn had his shooting boots on and chipped in with 3-4. Sean McNally grabbed a goal and some very impressive scores, Riordan Russell was marauding between the 21 yard lines and scored a brilliant point, while Tyler Brady set up numerous scores with some brilliant passing. Ivo Fitzherbert gave a brilliant display up front and in goal. Christopher Stapleton saved a penalty when in goal and proved completely versatile playing as both a forward and a back. Jack Coyle made some vital saves when in goal and contributed handsomely outfield as well. The two 45s that we worked in and ended up as scores will live long in the memory of the proud mentors! In the end, O’Mahonys just about edged a very tight game. We were delighted to see the two Killoe players who were injured in The Downs playing a full part in the game. When the game was finished, we were treated to fantastic hospitality and a hot meal was provided for everyone. We have to say a huge thank you to Thomas Walsh and all at Killoe Emmet Óg for making us so welcome and treating us so well. They are a credit to the GAA. We have invited them down to O’Mahonys in the new year when we will hand them back the Pat Walsh trophy for the remainder of the year, and can’t wait for that day to come. A truly great day to be part of O’Mahonys and the GAA community!