U-21 Hurling
The u-21 hurlers completed the group stage unbeaten with a 4-14 to 0-12 victory against Lorrha in Ballinderry. This win guarantees a semi-final place. The game was played in heavy underfoot conditions, which made hurling difficult for both sides. MacDonaghs had the aid of the breeze in the opening half and goals from Ray McLoughney and Seamus Hennessy helped them to a ten point interval lead. Further goals from Shane Quinlan and Ray McLoughney in the second half proved to be decisive in securing the points. Team: Ger Corcoran, Freddie Williams, Martin Walsh, Padraig Kelly, Liam Gibson (0-1), Eoin Hogan, Gavin McAvinchey, Seamus Hennessy (1-6), Kevin Ryan, James Williams, Brian O Meara, Shane Quinlan (1-1), Declan Barrett, Ray McLoughney (2-3) and Michael Costello (0-3). Sub: Timmy Walsh.
Minor Hurling
The minor hurlers lost out on an opportunity to claim a semi-final spot when they were beaten by Newport Gaels in MacDonagh Park on a 3-15 to 2-8 scoreline. Three teams in the group finished top on equal points but an inferior score difference means MacDonaghs have to be satisfied with a quarter final against Borris-Ileigh. Newport dominated the first half and built up a healthy half time lead. Kilruane fared much better in the second half without ever threatening victory and Newport were deserving winners. Team: Robert Ward, Niall Murphy, David Reddan, Timmy Walsh, Justin Cahill (0-1), William Cleary, Keith Kelly, Thomas Cleary (0-1), Pat Conway, James Williams, Brian O Meara (1-4), Niall O Meara (0-1) and Eoin Williams (1-1). Sub: Sean Kelly.
U-12 Hurling
The u-12 hurlers gave a very good account of themselves before losing out to the eventual champions Roscrea in the semi-final on a 3-4 to 0-4 scoreline. The game was played in constant rain but both sides coped well. At the interval the teams were level on two points each. On the resumption Roscrea hit the front with a goal and a point but MacDonaghs responded with two great points from midfielder Cian Darcy. Kilruane piled on the pressure but it was Roscrea who struck the crucial blow with their second goal. A third goal on the call of time didn’t do justice to the MacDonaghs team, which played with great heart. Congratulations to the Roscrea team, which went on to take the title and we wish them the best in the county semi-final. Team: Niall Shinners, William Ryan, Abhain Coleman, Brendan McAdams, Jack Farrell, Darragh Peters, Caolainn Conroy, Conor Doheny (0-2), Cian Darcy (0-2), Kieran Brereton, Kieran Lillis, James Cleary, Keelan Troy, Cillian Finn and Tom Dooley. Sub: Martin Grace.
Senior Hurling
The senior hurlers are expected to play Nenagh Eire Óg in the quarter-final of the Seamus O Riain Cup this weekend. Check county fixtures.
U-16 Hurling
The u-16 hurlers are away to Borrisokane in their final group game on Monday August 25th at 7.00 p.m.
Croke Park Trip
The u-10, u-12 and u-14 panels travelled to Croke Park on Sunday for the Tipperary and Waterford semi-final. Prior to visiting headquarters the u-10s played Na Fianna in a challenge game. Thanks to the club officials and mentors who organised this annual trip and ensured that all the players enjoyed a great day.
