Under 21
The large contingent of MacDonaghs followers left Templemore disappointed that victory wasn’t achieved but they felt a great sense of pride that the boys in black and white had stood toe to toe with a multi-talented Thurles side. With less than ten minutes to go MacDonaghs had hurled themselves into a three point lead and against all the odds victory seemed possible. However, the game was to turn on a controversial refereeing decision by John McCormack, who rather harshly deemed that a hand pass by Niall O’Meara was a throw. Neutrals and even Thurles supporters felt it was very debatable decision. Aidan McCormack pointed the free and Thurles added another white flag from the puck out and as the momentum swung dramatically in their favour, they went on to clinch a 2-14 to 1-13 victory.
Thurles forced the early pace, with Mikey O’Brien looking very dangerous at full forward. MacDonaghs gradually began to settle and at the break it was all to play for with the Mid champions two ahead on a 1-6 to 0-7 scoreline. The North champions got a dream start to the second half when Robert Austin volleyed the sliotar to the net. MacDonaghs raised their game to new heights in this period and Thurles were under severe pressure. As the game entered the final ten minutes Kilruane had a three point advantage. Then came the controversial free, which proved to be the turning point of the game. MacDonaghs lost no honour in defeat and won many admirers for their heart and spirit. Well done to the entire panel and the management team of John Hyland, Paddy Williams and John Quinlan. Thanks also to Jimmy Cahill who was responsible for the first aid and to masseur Pat Conway.
Team: David Reddan, David Williams, Eanna Hogan, Conor Austin, Jack Peters, Niall O’Meara (0-1), Tomás Hogan, Alan Darcy, Justin Cahill (0-1), Conor Cleary, Kieran Cahill (0-8), Thomas Cleary (0-2), Robert Austin (1-1), Eoin Williams and Aidan Boyle. Subs: Ronan Boyle and Stephen Cleary. Remaining panel members: Bob Dooley, Paddy Ryan, Sean Cleary and David Mooney.
Seven-a-Side
MacDonaghs participated in a Seven-a-Side tournament in Lorrha on St. Stephen’s Day in aid of the Tony Hogan fund. They overcame Borrisokane in the first round but lost out to eventual winners Portumna in the second match. Panel: Thomas Williams, Pat Williams, Diarmuid Cahill, William Cleary, Pat Conway, Seamus Hennessy, Ray McLoughney, Mikey Costello, Brian O’Meara and Declan Barrett.
Monster Sale of Work & Auction
It’s all hands on deck for the Monster Sale of Work & Auction, which takes place in the Thomas MacDonagh Complex on Sunday January 27th, commencing at 2.00pm. We have been heartened and encouraged by the very positive response we have received from parishioners. We are looking for donations of timber, turf, briquettes, farm produce, fodder, vouchers, cakes, buns, beer, spirits, electrical goods, furniture etc. Any items, big or small, which can be turned into euros, will be gladly accepted. All donations will be gratefully acknowledged. Len Gaynor 086-3110657 is co-ordinating the timber operations, so if you can donate a tree or a load of timber contact Len, Michael Hogan 087-7632729 or Matt Cleary 087-4171382. For all other items you can contact Gilbert Williams 087-2176452, George O’Leary 087-1222816, Mary McLoughney 087-7740848 or any member of the committee. There will be brilliant bargains available at the various stalls (cake, toy, grocery, clothes, book etc.). Everything must sell on the day. The ever popular Wheel of Fortune will be a magnet for patrons, with fantastic prizes and many free spins. Numerous novelty items such as Steady Hand, Face Painting, Penalty Shoot & Guess Number of Sweets in Jar will appeal to the whole family. There will be a raffle for a trailer of timber. Tea will be served, with all you can eat for a euro, and a shop will also be in operation. It promises to be a great social occasion. Don’t miss it!
Adjourned AGM
The Adjourned AGM takes place in the clubroom on Thursday January 10th at 8.00pm. The agenda will be completed by 10.00pm. This is one of the one important meetings of the year. All remaining positions on the club executive will be filled, the composition of the committee and subcommittees will be finalised and arrangements for the Sale of Work & Auction will be further advanced.
Juvenile AGM
The AGM of the juvenile club takes place in the clubroom on Friday January 11th at 8.00pm. All interested in the promotion of juvenile games in the parish are asked to attend.
Juvenile Presentation
The presentation of medals to the U10 hurlers, U12 A footballers, U12 B hurlers and the U14 hurlers will take place in the Thomas MacDonagh Complex on Friday January 18th at 8.00pm. Guest of honour on the night will be All-Ireland minor medallist Jack Peters. We will be looking for the assistance of parents in supplying sandwiches, cakes buns etc. We have received tremendous support from parents during 2012 and we anticipate the usual generous response on this occasion. More details later.
Membership
Membership fees remain the same as last year: U6, U8, U10 and U12 €10; U14, U16 and U18 €20 and non playing adults €20. There is a special membership package for all players over minor. Adult players will be briefed on this before the start of the playing season.
Lotto
After the traditional festive break the club Lotto resumes on next Monday January 7th in the Railway Bar. The jackpot stands at a very attractive €3,700.
