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Paddy Sheelan Cup (Group B)

Date:  Sunday 28th March, 2010
Venue: Cooley
Time:  3 P.M.
Referee: Damien Murtagh.

Dundalk Young Irelands 0-07  Cooley Kickhams 0-14

Cooley Kickhams overcame Dundalk Young Irelands by double scores in Cooley on Sunday afternoon.
 
Playing with the aid of a stiff breeze, Cooley went into an early 2 point lead. Irelands responded with a pointed free from Derek Maguire. However, Cooley struck back with a point from their full forward. Another free from Maguire took the Irelands to within 2 points but Cooley hit 4 points in a row to go into the break with a strong lead. In fact, they almost got a freak goal when a tackle by Sean Rafferty saw the ball go inches wide of the Irelands post.

Half Time: Cooley Kickhams 0-07 Dundalk Young Irelands 0-03

Cooley started the second half much the better and scored 5 points in a row to effectively kill off the match. The last of those 5 points could have been a goal only for a fine save by Craig McKenna who tipped over a Cooley shot.

The Young Irelands finished strongly and scored 4 of the last 6 points of the game. However, Cooley deservedly ended up comfortable winners.

Best for the Young Irelands was Aaron Rogers.

Dundalk Young Irelands: Craig McKenna; Ciaran Murray, Graham Carr, Sean Rafferty; Peter Flynn, Aaron Rogers, Peter Nixon; Andrew Nixon, Grard Nixon; Conor Nixon (0-01f), Derek Maguire (0-04(4f)), Nicholas O’Connor (0-02); David Lally, Joseph Flynn, Michael Shields.
Subs: Michael Mone for Sean Rafferty; Stephen Lally for David Lally.

Cooley Scorers:  No. 8 (0-01); No. 10 (0-01); No. 12 (0-02); No. 13 (0-05 (3f); No. 14 (0-02); No. 15 (0-2f); No. 18 (0-01).

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Paddy Sheelan Cup (Group B)

Date:  Friday 9th April, 2010
Venue: Pairc Eire Og, Dundalk
Time:  7.30 PM.

Dundalk Young Irelands 0-09 Newtown Blues 3-09

Newtown Blues defeated Young Irelands in an entertaining and fast paced match, played in good conditions, at Pairc Eire Og on Friday night.

It was the Irelander’s who started the match the better and raced into a 3 point lead with scores from Andrew Nixon and two from Michael Shields, including one free. The Blues started to come into the game and a well worked move saw Craig Mckenna tip the ball over the bar with a great save, the Blues midfielder (No. 8). 

Both sides then hit a number of wides as the match got tighter with some good tackling by both teams. However, the Blues scored a point to leave the minimum between the teams before their full forward collected a high ball and put a well struck shot into the back of the net, which put the Blues in the lead for the first time. Johnny Lynch scored the last point of the half to leave 2 points between the sides at half time. 

Half-Time: Dundalk Young Irelands 0-04 Newtown Blues 1-03

Just like at the start of the match, the Irelander’s started the second half strongly and Nicholas O’Connor scored two points in a row to level the match. But the Blues capitalised on a mistake in the Irelanders defence to score a scrappy goal to put them back into the lead. Although Johnny Lynch replied with a free for the Irelander’s, the Blues struck back with another goal from another defensive error and four points in a row to effectively secure victory for the away side.

Both sides finished the match with another two points to close the match with the Blues winning 3-09 to 0-09. The 3 goals being the difference between the sides.

Best for the Young Irelands were Graham Carr and Johnny Lynch.

Dundalk Young Irelands: Craig McKenna; Ciaran Murray, Graham Carr, Cian O’Naraigh; Barry Piper, Aaron Rogers, Peter Flynn; Andrew Nixon (0-01), Gerard Nixon; Michael Shields (0-2), Johnny Lynch (0-3), Nicholas O’Connor (0-3); David Lally, Kevin Keelan, Stephen Lally.
Subs: Peter McCourt for C. Murray; Alan Haughey for M. Shields.

Newtown Blues scorers: No. 8 (0-2); No. 12 (0-1); No. 13 (2-3); No. 14 (1-0); No. 15 (0-3).

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Louth Division 2 League

Date:  Sunday 25th April, 2010
Venue: Mell
Time:  3.00 P.M.
Referee: Kevin Levins

Dundalk Young Irelands 1-13 Oliver Plunkets 0-8

Dundalk Young Irelands opened their Division 2 League campaign with a well earned victory away to the Oliver Plunketts, in what was the Dundalk club’s first match at this level since 2000. 

Playing against a strong wind the Irelanders started brightly and almost took an early lead when wing back Peter Flynn went on a strong run but, instead of fisting over the bar opted to shoot for goal, which was easily blocked by the home team. The Plunkets then went down the field and scored the opening point of the match in the 11 minute through Rory Taaffe.

Points were hard to come by in the opening quarter in what was a physical match. Having fallen behind the Irelanders responded with a point a-piece from Kevin Keelan and a free from Dermot Mone.

However, the game burst into life in the last 10 minutes of the half as the Plunkets then scored 3 points in a row with a point from corner back Campbell in between 2 from Frank Taaffe. The Irelanders then scored 2 frees from Maguire before Keelan ran from midfield before rifling the ball to the bottom corner of the net to give the Irelands the lead at half time.

Half Time: Dundalk Young Irelands 1-04  Oliver Plunkets 0-4

The second half was more open than the first and both teams got 3 points each in the third quarter. However, it was the Irelanders who finished the stronger, with more options in attack allowing them to outscore the home team 6 points to 1 in the last 15 minutes, with points coming from Johnny Lynch, Maguire, David Lally and 2 from Nicholas O’Connor.

This win will give the Irelanders a big boost ahead of what will be a tough league campaign having stepped up from Division 3. The Plunketts meanwhile, must be worried about their status, even at this early stage of the season.

Best for the Young Irelands were Nicholas O’Connor and Cian O’Naraigh while Darragh Matthews played well for the Plunkets.

Dundalk Young Irelands: Craig McKenna, Ciaran Murray, Graham Carr, Cian O’Naraigh; Peter Flynn, Aaron Rogers, Peter Flynn; Nicholas O’Connor (0-2), Kevin Keelan (1-1); David Lally (0-1), Derek Maguire (0-6 (4f)), Johnny Lynch (0-2); Dermot Mone (0-1f), Joseph Flynn, Andrew Nixon.
Subs: Michael Mone for P. Nixon; Gerard Nixon for Keelan.

Oliver Plunkets: Conaire Quigley; Cillian Matthews, Brian O’Neill, Sean Campbell (0-1); Karl Tuite, Darragh Matthews, Niall Clinton; Brian Fitzpatrick, Sean Brassil, Frank Taaffe (0-2), John Kermath, John Moroney; Gavin Sullivan, Rory Taaffe (0-4(1f)), Dean Carolan.
Subs: No.19 (Matthews) (0-1).

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Louth Division 2 League

Date:  Friday 29th April, 2010
Venue: Roche
Time:  7.30 P.M.
Referee: Damien Murtagh

Dundalk Young Irelands 1-11 Roche Emmets 2-14

Roche Emmets defeated Dundalk Young Irelands in a fast paced match in Roche on Thursday evening. Roche burst out of the blocks and raced into a 4 point lead with scores from Kevin O’Callaghan (2), Dermot Craven and Barry O’Hare. Derek Maguire got a point back for the Irelands with a ’45, but Martin Craven got a goal for Roche. Kevin Keelan scored the second point for the Irelands, Craven scored another goal for Roche, his second in 4 minutes to put Roche into a commanding lead (2-4, 0-2).

Although Derek Maguire scored another point for the Irelands, it was Roche who finished the half stronger and scored 2 more points through Martin Craven, indeed he had an opportunity to shoot for goal but decided to tap an effort over the bar.

Half Time: Dundalk Young Irelands 0-03  Roche Emmets  2-07

Roche again started the second half strongly and scored 2 points in the first 5 minutes through Barry O’Hare. However, from there the Irelands burst into life and scored three points in a row through Dermot Mone, Andrew Nixon and Maguire. Although Roche scored another point to maintain their 10 point lead, the Irelands hit three points in a row through Graham Carr and 2 from Maguire. John Boland then scored a goal for the Irelands as he dispossessed the goal keeper and bundled the ball to the net, to narrow the gap to just 4 points with 10 minutes to play.

The Irelands nearly scored a second goal when Johnny Lynch went on a run before shooting wide. Roche effectively sealed victory when they scored three points in succession with frees from O’Hare and a point from O’Callaghan. Although Irelands battled on and scored 2 points and but for a double save from the Roche keeper, would have got another goal. O’Callaghan then got the last point of the match for Roche in the final minute to give a 2-14 to 1-11 victory.

Best for the Young Irelands were Aaron Rogers and Andrew Nixon.

Dundalk Young Irelands: Craig McKenna, Ciaran Murray, Graham Carr (0-01), Nicholas O’Connor (0-1); Peter Flynn, Aaron Rogers, O’Naraigh; Andrew Nixon (0-1), Kevin Keelan (0-1); David Lally (0-1), Derek Maguire (0-5 (3f; 1 ‘45)), Johnny Lynch; Dermot Mone (0-1f), Joseph Flynn, Gerard Nixon.
Subs: John Boland (1-0) for Gerard Nixon (H/T).

Best for Roche were Barry O’Hare, Kevin O’Callaghan and Martin Craven.
Roche Scorers: Dermot Craven (2 points); Barry O’Hare (5 points, 3f); Kevin O’Callaghan (5 points); Martin Craven (2-2).

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Paddy Sheelan Cup (Group B)

Date:  Friday 14th May, 2010
Venue: Hunterstown
Time:  7.30 P.M.
Referee: Damien Murtagh

Dundalk Young Irelands 5-02 Hunterstown Rovers 1-7

Dundalk Young Irelands scored 4 goals in the last 10 minutes to defeat Hunterstown in a poor quality match on Friday evening.

The Young Irelands almost got off to the perfect start when Alan Haughey, through on goal, pulled his shot wide of the target in the first minute. Andrew Nixon opened the scoring a minute later with a well taken point following good work in the midfield. However, the quality of the match deteriorated from then on with both sides guilty of poor shooting and poor handling. Hunterstown did equalise through Brendan Lennon on 14 minutes. However, John Boland scored an opportunistic goal for the Irelands in the 17 minute.

Hunterstown rallied strongly and scored the next 3 points through Lennon, Tommy Donegan and Brian Matthews, which brought them level going into the break. It could have been different as the Irelands missed a number of goal chances in the run up to half time and even hit the cross bar. Young Aaron Conway saved a Hunterstown shot with what was the last major piece of action of the first half. 

Half Time: Dundalk Young Irelands 1-01  Hunterstown Rovers 0-04

The second half started with both sides hitting a number of wides. David Finn did score a point for Hunterstown to give them the lead for the first time in the match on 39 minutes. Paddy Matthews extended Hunterstown’s lead with a point on 47 minutes.

The Irelands came out of their shell in the last 10 minutes of the game when Ryan Moran scored a good goal on 49 minutes. Although Lennon got another point in the 52nd minute, Paddy Mone grabbed the Irelands second point, after intercepting a pass from the Hunterstown ‘keeper. John Boland and Dermot Mone both scored a goal in quick succession for the Irelands to effectively seal victory for the away team. Although Paudge McArdle scored a penalty for Hunterstown, Ryan Moran had the final say as he scored his second goal of the match in the last minute of play.

Although the Irelands will be happy to have scored 5 goals from play, they won’t be happy with their general play and lack of points.

Best for the Young Irelands were Dermot Mone and Graham Carr.
Brendan Lennon and Paudge McArdle tried hard for Hunterstown.

Dundalk Young Irelands: Aaron Conway, Cian O’Naraigh, Graham Carr, Peter Nixon; Ciaran Murray, Aaron Rogers, Peter Flynn; Gerard Nixon, Andrew Nixon (0-1); Conor Nixon, Joseph Flynn, David Lally; Dermot Mone (1-0), Alan Haughey, John Boland (2-0).
Subs: Michael Mone for Gerad Nixon; Robbie Farrell for Andrew Nixon; Ryan Moran (2-0) for Aaron Rogers; Paddy Mone (0-1) for Alan Haughey.

Scorers for Hunterstown: Brendan Lennon (0-3); Paudge McArdle (1-0, pen); Brian Matthews, Tommy Donegan, David Finn, Paddy Mooney (0-1 each).

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Louth Division 2 League

Date:  Saturday 22nd May, 2010
Venue: Sheelagh
Time:  7.00 P.M.
Referee: Tom McEntaggert

Malachi's 2-13  Dundalk Young Irelands 2-08

Naomh Malachi’s defeated Dundalk Young Irelands in this 4th round fixture in Division 2, in Sheelagh.

The Malachi’s enjoyed the better opening and raced into a 1-01 to nil lead within the first 5 minutes through Jason Clarke and Kevin Rogers, following some slack defending from the Irelands. Young Irelands regrouped and went on the attack and nearly scored a goal through Joe Flynn, but the Malachi’s goalkeeper made a good save. Dermot Mone then opened the Irelands account with a free after 10 minutes. However, the Malachi’s then scored 3 points in a row to open up a commanding 6 point lead.

Flynn scored another point for the Irelands before Dermot Mone was taken down in the box a minute later and the referee awarded a penalty for the away side. Dermot Mone took the penalty himself and struck it well for a goal. However, the Malachi’s finished the half strongly and scored a pointed free before they got a second goal, following a dubious looking handpass.
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Half Time: Dundalk Young Irelands 1-04 Naomh Malachi 2-05

The Irelands started the second half brightly and Flynn scored 2 points in a row to narrow the gap. But the Malachi’s responded and scored 2 points of their own. Conor Nixon scored a fine point for the Irelands to give them hope, but the Malachi’s crucially scored 5 unanswered points in a row to effectively seal the win.

Although the Irelands rallied again near the end with a point and a goal from the impressive Flynn, the Malachi’s scored the final point of the game and deservedly got the victory.

Best for the Malachi’s was Kevin Rogers and their No. 8 while Andrew Nixon and Joseph Flynn tried hard for the Young Irelands.

Dundalk Young Irelands: Simon Flynn; Ciaran Murray, Graham Carr, Robbie Farrell; Peter Flynn, Aaron Rogers, Michael Mone; Andrew Nixon, Kevin Keelan; Conor Nixon (0-02), Joseph Flynn (1-05, 1 f), Johnny Lynch; Dermot Mone (1-01- p, f), Barry Piper, Nicholas O’Connor.
Subs: Ryan Moran for Piper; Cian O’Naraigh for Michael Mone; Sean Laverty for Ryan Moran; Ryan Moran for Conor Nixon. 

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Paddy Sheelan Cup (Group B)

Date:  Sunday 30th May, 2010
Venue: Pairc Eire Og
Time:  12.00 P.M.
Referee: Kevin Levins

Dundalk Young Irelands 2-05 Cooley Kickhams 5-14

Cooley Kickhams defeated Dundalk Young Irelands in the Paddy Sheelan Cup on Sunday in Pairc Eire Og.

Cooley burst out of the traps and scored 1-1 inside the opening 5 minutes. Although The Irelands got a point back, Cooley scored another 2-01 without reply to effectively seal the win inside the opening 15 minutes. The Irelands eventually started to play and a strong finish to the half made for a closer match as they scored 2-2 in the last ten minutes of the half.
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Half Time: Dundalk Young Irelands 2-03 Cooley Kickhams 4-03

With the aid of the breeze Cooley scored 3 points in a row in the first 10 minutes of the second half, while the Irelands could only score 1 point. Although there was only 2-01 in the difference by the three quarter mark, Cooley powered past the Irelanders in the last quarter with their midfield area particularly dominant, especially with the breaking ball and they scored 1-8 without reply to confirm victory on a scoreline of 2-05 to 5-14.

Cooley’s midfield was dominant while Andrew Nixon and Aaron Rogers tried hard for the Young Irelands.

Dundalk Young Irelands: Aaron Conway; Ryan Moran, Graham Carr, Robbie Farrell; Sean Laverty, Aaron Rogers, Colin Farrell; Andrew Nixon (0-01), Kevin Keelan; Conor Nixon (0-01), Derek Maguire (0-3), Joseph Flynn (0-01); Dermot Mone, Johnny Lynch, Barry Piper.
Subs: Alan Hanks for Carr; Paddy Mone for Moran; John Boland (1-00) for Piper.

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Paddy Sheelan Cup (Group B)

Date:  Sunday 6th June 2010
Venue: Pairc Eire Og
Time:  11.30 A.M.

Dundalk Young Irelands 1-08 Geraldines 0-12

Half-Time Dundalk Young Irelands 1-03 Geraldines 0-9

The Geraldines defeated Dundalk Young Irelands by the narrowest of margins in the final match of Group B.

The Gerladines look to be heading for a comfortable victory however, the Young Irelands battled back to close the gap to just 1 point before the referee blew the full time whistle. The sides will do battle again next Saturday night in the Division 2 of the league.

Dundalk Young Irelands: Tom O’Connor; Robbie Farrell, Cian O’Naraigh, Colin Farrell; Michael Mone, Peter Flynn, Derek Rogers; Andrew Nixon (0-1), Graham Carr; Ryan Moran, Derek Maguire (1-5), Johnny Lynch; Simon Flynn (0-2), Kevin Keelan, Alan Haughey.
Subs: Alan Hanks for Michael Mone, Paddy Mone Alan Haughey; Stephen Coburn for Ryan Moran.

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Louth Division 2 League

Date:  Tuesday 22nd June, 2010
Venue: Blackrock Road
Time:  8.00 P.M.
Referee: Stephen Johnson

Dundalk Young Irelands 1-06 Na Piarsaigh 0-14

Na Piarsaigh came out on top of this derby match with Dundalk Young Irelands at the Blackrock Road venue.

It was the Young Irelands who started the better and scored a point inside the first minute when Andrew Nixon went on a strong run and finished with a point. Simon Flynn then extended their lead with another point on 4 minutes. But the home side responded well and scored 3 points in-a-row, from Ronan McCartney, Franklin and a free from McCann took them into the lead by the 10th minute.

In what was an exciting half, the Irelands tied the match with a pointed free from Joseph Flynn. However, Na Piarsaigh scored 2 points in a row, with another free from McCann and a point from Franklin. But the Irelands finished the half strongly and scored 2 points through frees from Mone and also hit 2 wides to leave the minimum between the sides.

Half Time: Dundalk Young Irelands 0-06 Na Piarsaigh 0-07

The Irelands also started the second half brightly but missed 3 early frees in a row. Na Piarsaigh never looked back and scored 6 points in a row to seal the victory. The half was held up for around 10 minutes following what looked like a bad injury to Na Piarsaigh’s corner back. The Irelands had a couple of goal chances before Kevin Keelan grabbed one in injury time. Na Piarsaigh rounded off proceedings with the last point of the match to win on a scoreline of 0-14 to 1-06.

The lack of penetration in the Young Irelands full forward line was the major difference between the two teams on the night.

Best for the Young Irelands were Andrew Nixon, Aaron Rogers and Simon Flynn.
Best for Na Piarsaigh were: Des McCann, Gerard Smith and Donal Hegarthy.

Dundalk Young Irelands: Tom O’Connor; Robbie Farrell, Aaron Rogers, Cian O’Naraigh; Michael Mone, Peter Flynn, Nicholas O’Connor; Andrew Nixon (0-1), Gerard Nixon; Simon Flynn (0-1), Joseph Flynn (0-1f), Johnny Lynch; Dermot Mone (0-3f), Kevin Keelan (1-0), Ryan Moran.
Subs: John Boland for Ryan Moran; Colin Farrell for Nicholas O’Connor.

Na Piarsaigh scorers: Joseph Connolly (0-1); Ronan McCartney (0-1); Des McCann (0-5, 4f); Niall Franklin (0-2); Gerry Smith (0-4, 2f).

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Louth Division 2 League

Date:  Tuesday 20th July, 2010
Venue: Louth Village
Time:  7.30 P.M.
Referee: Paul Burke

Dundalk Young Irelands 1-08 St. Mochta’s 0-13

St. Mochta’s defeated the Young Irelands by 2 points in this tough bottom of the table league match in Louth Village.

It was the away team that started the brighter as the Irelands opened a 2 points to no score lead. However, St. Mochta’s regrouped and scored 4 points in a row, through Gervais Marron (2) and Eamon O’Neill (3). The Irelands responded and the match got a lot closer as Joseph Flynn got a point to narrow the gap. Again St. Mochta’s hit back with a point a-piece from Nigel Farrell and O’Neill. However, it was the Irelands who got the last score of the game with half back Peter Flynn finishing off a good move to take a well taken goal and leave the narrowest of margins between the sides at half time.

Half Time: Dundalk Young Irelands 1-03 St. Mochta’s 0-07

In a tough second half, which saw Nigel Farrell receive a straight red card, both sides traded points and ensured that the result wasn’t secured until the end. However, it was the boot of Eamon O’Neill, with 6 pointed free’s that helped give the Mochta’s a 2 point victory.

The result has left the Young Irelands at the bottom of Division 2.

Best for the Mochta’s were Gervais Marron and Eamon O’Neill while Peter Flynn and Ciaran Murray tried hard for the Irelands.

Dundalk Young Irelands: Kevin Keelan; Michael Mone, Graham Carr, Cian O’Naraigh; Peter Flynn (1-0), Aaron Rogers, Robbie Farrell (0-01); Andrew Nixon, Gerard Nixon; Nicholas O’Connor, Johnny Lynch (0-03), Ciaran Murray (0-01); Dermot Mone (0-02), Joseph Flynn (0-01), Mark Savage.
Subs: Sean Laverty for Ciaran Murray; Peter Nixon for Gerard Nixon.

St. Mochta’s scorers: Eamon O’Neill (0-10); Gervais Marron (0-02); Nigel Farrell (0-01).

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Avonmore Intermediate Football Championship Group 4

Date:  Thursday 12th August, 2010
Venue: Knockbridge
Time:  7.15 P.M.
Referee: Darren Ward

Dundalk Young Irelands 2-07 Hunterstown Rovers 1-09

Dundalk Young Irelands defeated Hunterstown by the narrowest of margins in a tight match in Group 4 of the Intermediate Championship, a victory that ensured they qualified for the quarter finals stage.

The Irelanders started the match very well and raced into a commanding lead with Mark Savage causing major problems for the Hunterstown defence. He opened the scoring in the 2nd minute with a well taking point before reacting quickest to a Ciaran Murray shot which rebounded off the post to finish to the net to give the Irelanders a 4 point lead inside 5 minutes.

However, Hunterstown regrouped and won a lot of possession around the middle of the field and opened their scoring with a goal through Richard Taaffe, from the penalty spot, on 9 minutes. They then hit 2 points in a row to put them into the lead for the first time in the match. Derek Maguire equalised a minute later but again Hunterstown hit back with a point from Alan Landy. The match got very scrappy from this point with very little flow to it. The Irelands then hit 2 wides in a row before Maguire got his second point to tie the scores. Hunterstown hit back with a point a-piece from Landy and Taaffe. But it was the Irelands who finished the half strongly and scored 3 points in a row through Nicholas O’Connor, Savage and Joseph Flynn to lead by a single point at half time.

Half Time: Dundalk Young Irelands 1-06  Hunterstown Rovers 1-05

The second half was equally as scrappy as the first and scores were at a premium. It was Hunterstown who appeared to be heading towards victory with Landy scoring 3 points inside the first 15 minutes of the half, while O’Connor got one for the Irelands on 34 minutes.

However, on 48 minutes, Derek Maguire got the Irelands last score of the match with a well taken goal following some neat play by the full forward line. This proved to be a decisive score as Hunterstown, try as they did, could only narrow the deficit to a single point with another point from play. In fact, they almost grabbed a dramatic injury time winner as Brendan Lennon dragged his shot wide of the post when clean through on goal.  But the Irelands held on for a narrow victory and passage into the quarter finals with next weeks match against the Joe’s determining who will top the group. Hunterstown go into the relegation play-offs. The Irelands will have to win a lot more ball around the middle of the park and reduce the number of wides (13 missed chances in the match) if they want to go on and win the Championship.

Best for the Irelands were Mark Savage, Derek Maguire and Peter Flynn while Alan Landy and Richard Taaffe tried hard for Hunterstown.

Dundalk Young Irelands: Tom O’Connor; Michael Mone, Graham Carr, Cian O’Naraigh; Peter Flynn, Aaron Rogers, Robbie Farrell; Andrew Nixon, Nicholas O’Connor (0-02); Ciaran Murray, Joseph Flynn (0-01), Johnny Lynch; Dermot Mone, Derek Maguire (1-02), Mark Savage (1-02).
Subs: Simon Flynn for Michael Mone (33 mins); Sean Bailey for Cian O’Naraigh (41 mins); Gerard Nixon for Andrew Nixon (50 mins); Peter Nixon for Nicholas O’Connor (57 mins).

Hunterstown Rovers: David Fedigan; Richie Cunningham, Robert Martin, Martin Lennon; Shane Dowdall, David Finn, Paddy Matthews; Tony McKenna, Richard Taaffe 1-1; Brian Matthews 0-2, Ciaran Carrie, Brendan Lennon 0-1, Paddy Mooney, Alan Landy 0-5, Conor Finn. Subs: Fergie Clerkin for R Taaffe, Chris McCann for S Dowdall.

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Avonmore Intermediate Football Championship Group 4

Date:  Friday 20th August, 2010
Venue: Dundalk Gaels
Time:  7.15 P.M.
Referee: Stephen Johnson

Dundalk Young Irelands 2-16 St. Joseph’s 1-12

Dundalk Young Irelands landed a big 7-point victory over St. Joseph’s to claim top spot in Group 4 of the Intermediate Championship. In an entertaining and open match, it was the Joe’s who made the early running and opened up a 4 point lead after just 5 minutes, with their midfield winning primary possession and delivering quick ball into a lively full forward line. But the Irelands gradually got a grip of the midfield battle and were able to send quick balls into the full forward line, while at the same time starving the Joes of any good possession. This enabled the Irelands to score 1-7 between the 7th and 25th minute of the match, with the Joes only scoring through a Conal O’Hanlon free in between. The 8 Irelanders scores during this period went to 6 different players, showing that they have a potent attack when the right ball is given into them. The pick of the scores went to Derek Maguire who latched onto the ball about 30 metres from goal before racing past the defence to blast the ball past the keeper from close range to give the Irelanders a commanding lead.

However, the Joe’s responded at the end of the half and narrowed the gap to the minimum thanks to a point from Derek Mulligan and a softly awarded penalty converted by O’Hanlon. However, the Irelands had young goalkeeper, Aaron Conway, to thank as he pulled off a fine save to ensure that the Irelands maintained their lead at half time.

Half Time: Dundalk Young Irelands 1-07 St. Josephs 1-06

The second half started in a scrappy fashion with neither team getting into their stride. Both sides scored 2 points a-piece inside the first 10 minutes of the half. The Irelanders then went on another run that saw them score 1-3 to further extend their lead. It was the turn of the Joes to respond and hit 4 points in a row to just leave a goal between them. However, the Irelands controlled the game to the end and looked the fitter and more composed of the sides and scored 4 points without reply to seal a deserved victory.

Both sides were already through to the quarter finals going into the match but it was the Irelands who topped the group and now look forward to their first Intermediate quarter final since they won the competition in 1996.

While the Young Irelands midfield excelled as a unit, Derek Maguire and Mark Savage in the full forward line and Aaron Rogers at Centre back also stood out. Derek Mulligan and David Reilly tried hard for the Joes.
Dundalk Young Irelands: Aaron Conway; Michael Mone, Graham Carr, Ciaran Murray; Peter Flynn, Aaron Rogers, Robbie Farrell; Gerard Nixon, Kevin Keelan (0-01); Nicholas O’Connor, Johnny Lynch (0-02), Joseph Flynn (0-01); Dermot Mone (0-02, 1f), Derek Maguire (2-07,3f), Mark Savage (0-02).
Subs: Cian O’Naraigh for Graham Carr; Ryan Moran for Michael Mone; Peter Nixon (0-01) for Gerard Nixon; Sean Bailey for Dermot Mone.

St. Josephs: Robert Samson; Philip Kinahan, Anthony Keenan, Christopher Brennan; Liam Mernagh, David O’Donoghue 0-1, Andrew Cluskey; Peter Brennan, Bernard Mulligan; David Reilly 0-4, Conal O’Hanlon 1-1, Peter Mulligan; Derek Mulligan 0-3, Alan McKenna 0-2, Alan Quigley. Subs: Conor Murtagh 0-1 for B Mulligan, Ollie McDonnell for C Brennan, Alan Lynch for C O’Hanlon.

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Avonmore Intermediate Football Championship Quarter Final

Date:  Sunday 5th September, 2010
Venue: Haggardstown
Time:  6.30 P.M.
Referee: Paul Finnegan

Dundalk Young Irelands 1-12 Oliver Plunketts 0-3

Dundalk Young Irelands scored a 12 point victory over the Plunketts in a wet and windy Haggardstown to book their place in the Intermediate Championship semi-final.

Playing into a strong wind, the Young Irelands started brighter and got the first point of the match with a Dermot Mone free on 2 minutes. A minute later Derek Maguire played a clever through ball for Johnny Lynch to race onto before slotting the ball past the Plunketts ‘keeper for what turned out to be the only goal of the game. Mark Savage then got another point to put the Young Irelands 5 points ahead. Although the Plunketts got a point from an Emmet Kelleher free on 12 minutes. However, the Irelands hit back with a point a piece from Maguire and Savage on 13 and 14 minutes to extend the lead to 6 points.

The Plunketts started to get into the match but hit 3 wides in a row and dropped a free short before getting the final point of the half in injury time.

Half Time: Dundalk Young Irelands 1-04 Oliver Plunketts 0-02

The Plunketts, as expected, came out firing at the start of the second half and hit 2 more wides in the first few minutes but Mark Savage hit another point for the Irelands to settle them somewhat. But again the Plunketts didn’t give up and got their third point on 44 minutes. It must be said that only for some excellent defending, they could have had more, but the Irelands defence didn’t give them any space.

After soaking up the pressure the Irelands then went on the attack and got 3 points in a row from Maguire, Lynch and Dermot Mone inside 2 minutes to effectively seal victory. The Plunketts did have a goal opportunity but Peter Nixon did very well to prevent the Plunketts forward from having a free run to goal and forced him into shooting wide, in what proved to be their final attack of the match. The Irelands then rattled off 4 points in the last 3 minutes, including an excellent score from Nicholas O’Connor near the right sideline.

The Irelands defence as a whole was excellent with Peter Nixon standing out at full back, Derek Maguire and Johnny Lycnh were also the pick of the forwards.
Emmet Kelleher played well for the Plunketts.

Dundalk Young Irelands: Craig McKenna; Ciaran Murray, Peter Nixon, Michael Mone; Robbie Farrell, Aaron Rogers, Peter Flynn; Andrew Nixon, Gerard Nixon; Nicholas O’Connor (0-01), Johnny Lynch (1-01), Joseph Flynn; Dermot Mone (0-02, 1f), Derek Maguire (0-05, 3f), Mark Savage (0-03).
Subs: Kevin Keelan for Michael Mone (35 mins); Graham Carr for Gerard Nixon (51 mins); Simon Flynn for Dermot Mone (57 mins).

Oliver Plunketts: Conor Quigley; Cillian Matthews, Darragh Matthews, Frank Daly; Gavin Sullivan, Bryan O’Neill, Stephen Keely; Emmett Kelleher, Brian Fitzpatrick; Cian Matthews, Rory Taffe, Trevor Walsh; Frank Taffe, John Kermath, John Moroney.

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Avonmore Intermediate Football Championship Semi Final

Date:  Saturday 11th September, 2010
Venue: Ardee
Time:  4.00 P.M.
Referee: Stephen Johnston

Dundalk Young Irelands 2-10 St. Mochta’s 1-11

Dundalk Young Irelands booked their place in the Intermediate Championship final with a 2 point victory over a fancied St. Moctha’s team, in Ardee on Saturday afternoon, in a repeat of the 2007 Junior Final.

There was a bright start to the match with the Mochta’s winning a loose ball from the throw in and wing forward Sean Crawley scoring the opening point in the first minute. But the Irelands hit back almost immediately with a point from Derek Maguire before Johnny Lynch put them in the lead with a point on 8 minutes. Declan Byrne equalised for the Moctha’s on 12 minutes before the Irelands took control of the match. Maguire pointed a free on 15 minutes before Dermot Mone hit the outside of the post when he tried to place a shot into the corner. However, Maguire and Nicholas O’Connor both got a point in 2 minutes to extend the Irelands lead to 3 points. Byrne got another point for the Mochta’s before Johnny Lynch raced onto a loose ball and ran ‘soccer style’ towards goal, although his shot hit the post he fisted the rebound home to give the Irelands the opening goal of the game. Nigel Farrell scored a lovely point from the right wing for the Mochta’s but Johnny Lynch closed the scoring with a point on half time.

Half Time: Dundalk Young Irelands 1-06 St. Mochta’s 0-04

The Irelands started the second half just as they finished the first and Maguire got their second goal on 33 minutes with a good finish. He then scored a pointed free and Mark Savage got his first point of the match to extend the lead to 10 points with just 20 minutes left. But the Mochta’s got 2 more points through No. 7 and Byrne to narrow the gap slightly. Although Savage got another point on 45 minutes, the Irelands passed up to goal chances, first when Nicholas O’Connor managed to see his shot hit the crossbar and post and then Maguire overhit a pass to Mone, which saw the ball go wide. Given that they were in such a lead, maybe they would have been better off taking the easy points.

Mochta’s rallied but hit 3 wides in a row before Maguire scored what should have been the match sealing point on 50 minutes. But the Mochta’s to their credit didn’t give up and pointed a free on 52 minutes, before they got a goal on 54 minutes, although it looked like a square ball. Byrne scored 3 more free’s and Englishby also got a point to leave just 2 points between the sides in the end of this gripping semi final.

Peter Nixon and Ciaran Murray were outstanding for the Irelands in defence, while Maguire and Savage were a handful for the Mochta’s at the other end.
Declan Byrne tried hard for the Moctha’s.

Young Irelands: Craig McKenna; Ciaran Murray, Peter Nixon, Michael Mone; Robbie Farrell, Aaron Rogers, Peter Flynn; Andrew Nixon (Kevin Keelan 52 mins), Gerard Nixon (Graham Carr 22 mins); Nicholas O’Connor (0-02), Johnny Lynch (1-02), Joseph Flynn (Simon Flynn); Dermot Mone (Sean Bailey), Derek Maguire (1-05,2f), Mark Savage (0-02).

St. Mochta’s: Conor Ryan; Paul Marron, Barry Cassidy, Aidan Homer; Gary Connolly, Philip Englishby, Barry Mulholland; Declan Byrne, Gareth O'Reilly; Martin McGahon, Colin Hoey, Sean Crawley; Nigel Farrell, Gervaise Marron, Eamonn O'Neill.

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Louth Division 2

Date:  Wednesday 15th September, 2010
Venue: Pairc Eire Og
Time:  8.00 P.M.
Referee: Gabriel McKenny

Dundalk Young Irelands 4-13 Sean McDermotts 0-08

Dundalk Young Irelands scored a big 17-point victory over the Sean McDermotts in this bottom of the table clash between the Intermediate and Junior Championship finalists.

Playing against the wind, the Irelands carried forward their form from the championship semi final and started quickly. They had the first 2 chances of the half but saw both drop short into the ‘keepers hands before Derek Maguire opened the scoring with a pointed free. Corner forward Dermot Mone then finished off a well worked move by finishing to the back of the net with a cool finish to give the home team an early 4 point lead. However, the McDermotts came back strong and got the next 3 points of the match through Declan Carroll, Patrick Osborne and Tony Kelly to narrow the deficit to the minimum. The Irelands then upped the pace of the game and defended very strongly to deny the McDermotts any dangerous possession. They outscored the McDermotts by 7 points to 1 for the remainder of the half, with scores coming from Dermot Mone, Maguire (3), Joseph Flynn and Mark Savage who pointed following a Dermot Mone shot on goal rebounding off the post. Tony Kelly got the McDermotts final point of the half.

Half Time: Dundalk Young Irelands 1-08 Sean McDermotts 0-04

It was the McDermotts who had the first chance of the second half when they hit a goal attempt wide before Maguire scored a point from a free for the Irelands. The Irelands effectively sealed victory when Maguire and Mone scored a point each and then Mone finished to the net from close range following good work and a pass from Mark Savage, to make it 2-11 to 0-05. Again the Irelands defended in numbers to minimise opportunities for the away side, but Kelly did convert a free for the McDermotts. Graham Carr got his first point of the night for the Irelands with a strong move from Midfield before Derek Maguire hit the net following more good work from Savage. Daniel Woods got the McDermotts last 2 points of the night but the Irelands weren’t finished yet and young Sean Bailey got a point before Savage finished off the scoring the Irelands fourth goal which saw good interplay from Bailey and Maguire set up the lively corner forward. That left it 4-13 to 0-08 for the Irelands and saw them leapfrog the McDermotts and move into the relegation playoff spot.

The Irelands defence was excellent again and snuffed out most chances for the McDermotts before setting up some excellent balls into the pacy full forward line, which enabled them to open up the McDermotts almost at will.

Best for the Irelands were Ciaran Murray, Aaron Rogers, Johnny Lynch and Derek Maguire. Tony Kelly and Daniel Woods tried hard for the McDermotts.

Young Irelands: Craig McKenna; Ciaran Murray, Peter Nixon, Michael Mone (Ryan Moran); Robbie Farrell, Aaron Rogers, Peter Flynn; Andrew Nixon (Graham Carr (0-1)), Gerard Nixon (Kevin Keelan); Nicholas O’Connor, Johnny Lynch, Joseph Flynn (0-1) (Simon Flynn); Dermot Mone (2-2) (Sean Bailey (0-1)), Derek Maguire (1-07,3f), Mark Savage (1-1).

Sean McDermotts: Damien Curran; Daniel Reilly, Mark Duffy, David O’Neill; Mark McEneaney, Sean McMahon, Darren McEneaney; Kevin McMahon, Patrick Osborne (0-1); Brendan McGahon, Glynn Callaghan, James Woods; Daniel Woods (0-3,2f), Declan Carroll (0-1), Tony Kelly (0-3,1f).

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Louth Division 2

Date:  Friday 24th September, 2010
Venue: Pairc Eire Og
Time:  8.00 P.M.
Referee: Gerry Malone

Dundalk Young Irelands 2-10 Geraldines 2-05

Dundalk Young Irelands defeated the Geraldines in a match that epitomised the saying “a game of two halves”.

The match opened nervously before the Irelanders almost scored a goal with the first chance of the match, however Mark Savage pulled his shot wide. The Irelanders were able to get through the Geraldines defence with ease and scored 6 unanswered points within the first 20 minutes with the scores coming from Derek Maguire (0-3), Savage, Dermot Mone and Johnny Lynch (0-1 each). However, the Geraldines were holding their own in the midfield area and got back into the match when Shane O’Hanlon converted a penalty on 22 minutes. Dermot Mone struck back with a free 2 minutes later and then Maguire had his shot saved by the keeper. O’Hanlon then hit an injury time free to narrow the gap to 3 points.

Half Time: Dundalk Young Irelands 0-07 Geraldines 1-01

The Geraldines turned their game around in the second half and scored a goal in the first minute following a mix up in the Irelanders defence. They then scored 3 of the next 4 points to take a 2 point lead with 15 minutes to go. This seemed to shake the Irelanders into action but they missed 3 good scoring chances before a Mark Savage goal put them back into the lead on 56 minutes. Maguire hit 2 more points to extend the lead before Patrick Hoey pulled one back. Dermot Mone scored the winning goal deep into injury time to seal victory for the Irelanders.

Best for the Irelanders were Derek Maguire, Ciaran Murray and Dermot Mone. John Molloy and Shane O’Hanlon tried hard for the Geraldines.

Young Irelands: Craig McKenna; Ciaran Murray, Graham Carr, Michael Mone (Simon Flynn); Robbie Farrell, Aaron Rogers, Peter Flynn; Andrew Nixon (Kevin Keelan), Gerard Nixon (Ryan Moran); Nicholas O’Connor, Johnny Lynch (0-01), Joseph Flynn; Dermot Mone (1-02), Derek Maguire (0-06,3f), Mark Savage (1-1).

Geraldines: Darren Kearney; Sean Watters, Nicky Mackin, Paudie Hoey; Tiernan Hand, John Lynch, Patrick Hoey (0-01) John Molloy, Brian Thornton; Benny Connolly, Conal Hoey, Eoin Hammill; Paul Molloy (0-01), Shane O’Hanlon (1-02), Barry Hamilton (1-01).

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Avonmore Intermediate Football Championship Final

Date:  Sunday 10th October, 2010
Venue: Ardee
Time:  4.00 P.M.
Referee: Paul Kneel

Dundalk Young Irelands 2-11 O’Raghallaighs 1-11

Dundalk Young Irelands claimed their second Intermediate Championship title with an accomplished display against the O’Raghallaighs in what was an entertaining match at Ardee.

The Irelands started very well and opened up an early lead with the impressive Johnny Lynch scoring a point in the second minute. The O’Raghallaighs were dealt a blow at this point as Graham Leech had to come off injured. The Irelands were doing well around the middle and giving good early ball into their dangerous full forward line and had 2 wides before they got their next score. And when that score did come it was a crucial score with Johnny Lynch finishing off a move and hitting the back of the net. Mark Savage then fisted over the bar to extend the Dundalk teams lead to 1-2 to no score after just 7 minutes.

James Moonan got a point back for the O’Raghallaighs on 8 minutes but the Irelands were in control at that stage and extended their lead further when, first Derek Maguire opened his account with a point on 13 minutes and then another attack saw Dermot Mone play in Mark Savage with a delicate hand pass, Savage then hit an excellent shot to the back of the net. It got worse for the O’Raghallaighs, when losing by 8 point, their centre back Ciaran Brassil had to come off with an injury. The O’Raghallaighs goalkeeper then pulled off a great save to deny Gerard Nixon who had made a strong run from midfield. Ben Rogan hit the post with a close range free on 20 minutes, but the Irelands defence spilled possession and Damien Boyle took advantage to kick only the second point of the match for the O’Raghallaighs on 20 minutes. They were then deal another blow as full back, Johnny Clerkin also had to come off injured on 23 minutes. Derek Maguire then scored a brilliant point from the left wing following good work by the Irelands forwards and then scored from a free. The O’Raghallaighs scored 3 points in the last 5 minutes of the half, but Nicholas O’Connor scored the last Irelands point of the half, while wing back Peter Flynn also had his goal attempt saved.

Half Time: Dundalk Young Irelands 2-06 O’Raghallaighs 0-05

As expected the O’Raghallaighs started the second half strongly and got a grip around the middle. Ruairi Moore and Craig McEntaggart both hit points in the opening 3 minutes. But the Irelands hit back instantly with points from Maguire and Lynch. The O’Raghallaighs had their most dominant spell of the match at this point but some solid defending forced them to hit a number of wides, while Craig McKenna pulled off some good saves also. Aaron Rogers then finished a strong run with a point from his weaker left foot on 43 minutes to further extend the lead. The impressive Moore continued to get on the ball for the O’Raghallaighs but his passes into the square were repeatedly dealt with by the solid Irelands full back line. He did manage to score a further 2 points while Robert Mulroy also hit one for the O’Raghallaighs as they tried to claw their way back into contention. Peter Nixon did make a couple of crucial blocks when the O’Raghallaighs could have had goal chances, but this was further proof of the strength of the Irelands defence.

In the meantime Dermot Mone and Derek Maguire both hit points towards the end of the match, which seemed to seal victory for the Irelands. But the O’Raghallaighs wouldn’t give up and Stephen Smith grabbed a goal on 59 minutes to close the gap to 4 four points. Peter Flynn was then sent off for retaliating to a foul. Moore then hit the final point of the match for the O’Raghallaighs. But it wasn’t enough as the Irelands deservedly held on to claim an impressive 3 point victory, which see’s them return to the senior ranks in 2011.

This victory was built around a committed team performance, with industrious and dangerous forwards and strong and tenacious defenders. With an average age of just 23, the future looks bright for the Young Irelands. But it is important that they maintain their Division 2 league status this term and try to get promotion next year.

Best for the winners were Ciaran Murray (who got man of the match), Robbie Farrell, Andrew Nixon, Johnny Lynch and Derek Maguire. Ruairi Moore, Craig McEntaggart and Stephen Smith tried hard for the O’Raghallaighs.

The Young Irelands will now play the winners of the Kildare Intermediate Final in the first round of the Leinster Club Championship. That match is due to take place on Sunday 31st October.

Young Irelands: Craig McKenna; Ciaran Murray, Peter Nixon, Graham Carr; Peter Flynn, Aaron Rogers (0-01), Robbie Farrell; Andrew Nixon, Gerard Nixon (Kevin Keelan 46 mins); Nicholas O’Connor (0-01), Johnny Lynch (1-02), Joseph Flynn; Dermot Mone (0-01), Derek Maguire (1-05, 2f), Mark Savage (1-01) (Simon Flynn 58 mins).
Sent Off: Peter Nixon (59 mins).

O’Raghallaighs: Joseph Flanagan; Graham Leech, Jonathan Clerkin, Graham Murrayu; Dean Byrne, Ciaran Brassil, Chris Smith; James Moonan (0-1), Robert Mulroy; Stephen Smith (1-0), Damien Boyle (0-1), Ruairi Moore (0-6); Craig McEnteggart (0-2), Barry Flanagan, Ben Rogan. Subs: Andrew Rogan for G Leech (2 mins), Damhan Finnegan for C Brassil (18 mins), Kevin McCormack for J Clerkin (25 mins), Anthony McGee (0-1) for D Boyle (43 mins), Eoghan Farrelly for B Flanagan (54 mins).

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Louth Division 2
Date:  Sunday 17th October, 2010
Venue: Drogheda
Time:  3.00 P.M.
Referee: Stephen Johnson

Dundalk Young Irelands 4-07 O’Raghallaighs 2-06

Dundalk Young Irelands defeated the O’Raghallaighs for the second time in a week in a tight game in Drogheda. The Dundalk side started brightly and had two wides before the O’Raghallaighs opened the scoring with a well taken point from Robert Mulroy after they intercepted an Irelanders pass and hit on the break. The Irelanders had plenty of the ball and Dermot Mone equalised on 7 minutes with a free. The home team retook the lead through Mulroy again on 11 minutes.  Mark Savage then got the first goal of the game for the Irelanders on 12 minutes. Ben Rogan then scored from a free kick to narrow the gap. The O’Raghallaighs were then awarded a penalty after Ciaran Murray fouled and Ben Rogan converted from the spot.

Two points from Derek Maguire brought the Irelanders level shortly after. The Irelanders got two well taken goals in the space of 2 minutes, through twin brothers Peter and Joseph Flynn and Maguire closed the scoring in the first half with another point.

Half Time: Dundalk Young Irelands 3-04 O’Raghallaighs 1-03

Similar to last weeks final, the O’Raghallaighs made a good start to the second half and Ruairi Moore scored from a free two minutes in. They were then awarded a penalty shortly after but Craig McKenna saved well to his right from Rogan. Both sides then missed some chances before Dermot Mone got another point for the Irelands. Moore hit another free for the O’Raghallaighs before latching onto a breaking ball at the edge of the square and getting his first goal of the game. Anthony then got a point for the home team to leave just 2 points between the teams.

However, that proved to be the last score for the O’Raghallaighs as the Intermediate Champions upped the tempo in the last 10 minutes and got another goal (through Mark Savage) and 2 points (Savage and Maguire) to claim a big victory that leaves them close to security.

Best for the Irelands was Robbie Farrell at half back and Dermot Mone and Mark Savage at corner forward. Ruairi Moore and Ben Rogan tried hard for the O’Raghallaighs.

Young Irelands: Craig McKenna; Ciaran Murray, Graham Carr, Michael Mone; Peter Flynn (1-0), Aaron Rogers, Robbie Farrell; Gerard Nixon (Andrew Nixon),Kevin Keelan; Nicholas O’Connor, Johnny Lynch, Joseph Flynn (1-0); Dermot Mone (0-03, 2f), Derek Maguire (1-03, 2f), Mark Savage (2-01).

O’Raghallaighs: Joseph Flanagan; Kevin Mc Cormack, Alan Doyle, Graham Murray; Dean Byrne, James Moonan, Chris Smith; James Moonan (0-2), Robert Mulroy; Andrew Rogan; Barry Flanagan, Ruairi Moore (1-2 (2f)), Stephen Smith; Anthony Magee (0-1), Craig McEntaggart, Ben Rogan (1-1(p,f).

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Louth Division 2
Date:  Sunday 24th October, 2010
Venue: Pairc Eire Og
Time:  3.00 P.M.
Referee: Kevin Levins

Dundalk Young Irelands 0-08 Dreadnots 2-06

The Dreadnots claimed the Division 2 league title with a 4 point victory over the Dundalk Young Irelands in a keenly contested match at Pairc Eire Og.

Although the game started brightly, both sides were guilty of missing a number of good chances to open the scoring. Indeed the first score of the game didn’t arrive until the 10th minute, when the Young Irelands were dispossessed coming out of defence and Pairic Smith got onto the end of a pass to finish to the net. Although the Young Irelands forwards were getting plenty of the ball and causing trouble for the defence, they didn’t get off the mark until 16 minutes when Derek Maguire converted a free. Joseph Flynn then scored a well taken point a minute later to leave just a point between the sides. The Irelands had the ball in the Dreadnots net shortly after through good work by Mark Savage. The corner forward underhit an attempted fisted effort and the ball went into the net with the referee adjudging that it did not hit a Dreadnots player and so it was disallowed. Maguire levelled the score with another point on 27 minutes. However, the Dreadnots scored a point in the final minute to go into the break a point ahead.

Half Time: Dundalk Young Irelands 0-03 Dreadnots 1-01

Maguire scored another free to equalise at the start of the second half. But 2 Pairic Smith points in as many minutes put the Dreadnots back into the lead. Dermot Mone converted a free to leave just 1 point between them. The Dreadnots put themselves in a commanding position midway through the half when they got 2 points and a goal (Smith). The Irelands did fight back and created a number of chances and Maguire got 2 more points, while Mone also added another to narrow the gap to 3 points with 10 minutes to go. The Dreadnots finished strongly and grabbed the last point of the match as the game finished 2-06 to 0-08.

Best for the Dreadnots were Pairic Smith while Derek Maguire, Ciaran Murray and Andrew Nixon tried hard for the Irelands.

Young Irelands: Craig McKenna; Ciaran Murray, Graham Carr, Michael Mone; Peter Flynn, Aaron Rogers, Robbie Farrell; Andrew Nixon, Gerard Nixon; Nicholas O’Connor, Johnny Lynch, Joseph Flynn (0-01); Dermot Mone (0-02.1f), Derek Maguire (0-06, 1f), Mark Savage.
Subs: Kevin Keelan for Gerard Nixon; Ryan Moran for Graham Carr; David Lally for Dermot Mone; Michael Shields for Joseph Flynn.

Leinster Intermediate Club Championship
Date:  Sunday 31st October, 2010
Venue: Haggardstown
Time:  2.30 P.M.
Referee: David Gough (Meath)

Dundalk Young Irelands 1-07 Ballymore Eustace (Kildare) 3-09

Dundalk Young Irelands were defeated by Ballymore Eustace in the first round of the Leinster Intermediate Club Championship. It was the Kildare team that started better and they missed a couple of chances as the Young Irelands struggled to get out of their own half in the opening minutes. However it wasn’t long before they got into their stride and Mark Savage grabbed a goal with the opening score of the match. A quick ball was played into the full forward line and Dermot Mone played in Savage who finished to the net. Ballymore hit back with a point from Tommy Archbold. But the Irelands dominated the next few minutes as their full forward line had the beating of their markers. Derek Maguire converted two free kicks. Savage had a goal chance but decided to take a point to put them 5 points ahead. Ballymore also had corner back Colin Clarke harshly sent off for two yellow cards, midway through the half. But this seemed to spur them on and finished the half very strongly and they soon got their first goal of the half when their ploy of playing a quick high ball into the square paid off and Tommy Archbold finished to the net. Another point from Archbold and 2 James Kavanagh free kicks saw them move ahead by a point. Wing back Keith Conway then got their second goal as he finished to an empty net after receiving a short hand pass. Another Kavanagh free and a point from Eoin Kavanagh saw Ballymore go into the break 6 points ahead.

Half Time: Dundalk Young Irelands 1-03 Ballymore Eustace 2-06

The Young Irelands burst out of the traps in the second half, but had 4 wides in the opening minutes, although Derek Maguire did convert a free. Knowing that they needed a goal, Derek Maguire went on a good run and almost scored a cracking goal but his effort crashed off the underside of the bar and went away from goal.  As they won the majority of the breaking ball around the middle of the field, Ballymore sealed victory with a point and a goal from James Kavanagh, who calmly finished to the net following some good work from their forwards. To their credit the Irelands didn’t give up and Maguire had another goal attempt saved by the Ballymore keeper. Peter Flynn was also sent off, harshly for 2 yellow cards. Maguire converted 3 more frees to reduce the deficit.

James Kavanagh, Eoin Kavanagh and Tommy Archbold were best for Ballymore Eustace, while Ciaran Murray and Mark Savage tried hard for the Young Irelands.

The Young Irelands would like to thank all our sponsors for the year especially Brubakers (our main sponsors), Benny Brady’s Central Bar, Kierans and Swift Lift who also sponsored new clothing for the championship.

Young Irelands: Craig McKenna; Ciaran Murray, Graham Carr, Michael Mone; Peter Flynn, Aaron Rogers, Robbie Farrell; Andrew Nixon, Gerard Nixon; Nicholas O’Connor, Johnny Lynch, Joseph Flynn; Dermot Mone, Derek Maguire (0-06,6f), Mark Savage (1-01).
Subs: Kevin Keelan for Gerard Nixon; Simon Flynn for Michael Mone.
Sent off: Peter Flynn.

Ballymore Eustace: Maurice Murray; Colin Clarke, Pat Browne, Keith Fennell; Keith Conway (1-0), John Doyle, William O’Donoghue; Tadhg Grace, James Kavanagh (1-3, 3f); Shane Kavanagh, Eoin Kavanagh (0-02), Peter Lawlor (0-01); Mark McCarville, Tommy Archbold (1-02, 1f), Garreth Clarke.
Sent off: Colin Clarke.