Senior Hurling
The senior hurlers ran out of steam in extra time and lost out to Borris-Ileigh in the second round of the county championship. They will rue the lack of composure in the dying moments of normal time which allowed Borris-Ileigh snatch a draw. The lack of fitness by many players was glaringly obvious in extra time and for the season ahead a greater commitment and willingness to make sacrifices are essential for any worthwhile progress. Thanks to the management team of Barney Naughnane, Joe Burns and Martin Kelly who put in a huge effort this year. There was fantastic commitment from some players but others will have to honestly examine their contribution both on and off the field.
Junior C Hurling
The junior C hurlers opened their championship campaign with a home draw against Silvermines. Both sides scored 1-9. While on the balance of play a draw was a fair result MacDonaghs will rue the concession of a late goal which deprived them of full points. Silvermines played with the aid of a slight breeze in the first half as both sides struggled with the drizzly conditions. Kilruane took an early lead when Sean Hayes soloed through the defence and finished the rebound to the net after the Mines keeper had saved. The visitors began to monopolise possession as they got on top at midfield and the half back line. Luckily for Kilruane the Mines shooting was off target and at the break the teams were deadlocked with the scoreboard reading 1-4 to 0-7.
Mark O Meara was introduced into the action at centre forward for the second half and although he is far from match fit he made an immediate impact. Cormac Williams was switched to midfield where impressed. MacDonaghs forged ahead but spurned a number of gilt edged chances for both goals and points. In the closing minutes they paid a heavy price for this profligacy when the Mines goaled after the Kilruane defence failed to clear their lines. However, a valuable point was secured and with games against Ballinahinch and Borrisokane to come they remain in the hunt for a semi-final spot. Team: Robert Ward, Eoin Burns, Luke Williams, Timmy Walsh, Fergus England, David Slattery, Cormac Williams, Morgan Conway (0-5), Scott Hodgins, Gary Prout, Mark Spain, Robert Austin (0-1), Kevin Prout, James Sullivan and Sean Hayes (1-0). Sub: Mark O Meara (0-3).
Junior Hurling
The junior A hurlers Toomevara on this Sunday in the final group game. Check fixtures for confirmation of time and venue.
U-14 Hurling
The U-14 hurlers play Nenagh in the North final on Saturday August 13th. Time and venue have to be confirmed.
Match Tickets
Tickets for the Tipperary and Dublin semi-final must be ordered from Michael Cahill 0505-42234 or 087-9391359 by Saturday August 6th and be collected by Thursday August 11th. If sufficient numbers order tickets by August 6th the club can avail of a special offer which will enable stand tickets to be purchased for €10 each. Otherwise, tickets will cost €40. Therefore, it is essential that applications are in on time.
County Final
The Kilruane MacDonaghs team which won the 1886 All-Ireland club final will be honoured at the county final which is expected to take place on October 16th.
Sympathy
The club would like to extend its sympathy to the Cleary family Ardcroney on the sudden death of PJ Cleary. He won a North U-14 medal in 2006 and was a member of this year’s minor team. He was a dependable and committed defender and was at his best when the going got tough. PJ was a jovial and popular character who loved to have a bit of fun. Our thoughts and prayers are with his father Pat, his mother Eithne, his brothers Sean, Colm and David, his relatives and friends.
