Picture Special................P44

Jason Morrisey

Discussing the hurling in Callan Enjoying the Oloughins v Ballycallan game in Callan John Brophy and Colm Hegarty

Young members of Ballycallan gaa watching their senior team in action.

Davy Holohan and Donie Ryan

Butlers

Handcrafted Hurleys

BUTLERS Handcrafted Hurleys have been making top quality hurleys since 2013 in our workshop outside the parish of Ballycallan Co. Kilkenny.

We are located near Ballycloven Cross which is half way between Kilmanagh & Callan. is is an ideal location close to the Kilkenny & Tipperary border on the road from Cashel to Kilkenny.

Our hurleys are renowned for their weight feel & balance to help players perform to their full potential on the pitch. Every customer is important to us whether it is someone who is coming in for their rst hurley or a seasoned inter-county player.

Since 2018 we also moved to an online platform. Our website www.kilkennyhurleys.ie has become essential in our line of work particularly in 2020 throughout Covid 19. It has allowed us to reach more potential customers both nationally & internationally. In the past year we have sent our hurleys to all 32 counties in Ireland & abroad to the UK, USA, Australia Canada, & Germany.

We have recently teamed up with Ecoxpress Ireland. A new emission free courier company a liated with An Post for our national deliveries & we use An Post for our international deliveries.

We have also joined up with some other Irish business to o er a wider range of hurling products to our customers. One is example of this is our relationship with Reynolds Hurleys in Belfast with Barry & the team. e Reynolds Composite Hurley is a more durable hurley & a substitute for the Ash equivalent which we make. Many people now prefer using di erent products such as the Reynolds composite Hurley.

In joining up with other businesses & stocking their products as well as our own it o ers anyone who decides to shop with us more options.

At the moment we are currently in the process of nishing o our on-site shop. is we also double as a hurling museum with lots of hurling memorbellia such as old hurling programmes, books & signed jerseys for display from many current & former inter county hurlers & camogie players across the country. We would like to thank everyone so far who has donated items & helped on this project to this point.

We would like to thank everyone locally & further a eld who has supported us through the years.

If you would like to place an order you can visit our website www.kilkennyhurleys.ie or contact us on 0857846739

Checkout our social media for regular updates Facebook https://www.facebook. com/ButlerHurleys/

Kilkenny GAA clubs and Community news

SENIORS WIN OPENER The Clara senior hurlers opened their championship campaign with an accomplished win over Mullinavat on Saturday evening in Nowlan Park. They gave a very fluid display which must have pleased the new management. Most of the positional changes brought about by this management team worked a treat in this game, and Clara racked up an impressive score of 1-26 to Mullinavat’s 1-15. At the end of the first quarter Clara led 0-9 to 0-5 and seven di erent scorers had already found the target for the men in maroon. By half time the lead was up to 0-15 to 0-10 and nine Clara men had scored from play. Indeed Clara would finish the game with 1-22 from play which was a very good return for their e orts. That five point lead was maintained through the third quarter and when Clara began the last quarter with an unanswered 1-6 this game was over. The Clara goal arrived via substitute Conor Cody, who was put through one on one with the goalkeeper by a de Chris Bolger hand pass. Mullinavat replied with a goal of their own through evergreen veteran Willie O Dwyer but it was too little too late for the Southerners. Clara had the luxury of enjoying the last quarter without over exerting themselves but they will know that Dicksboro will provide a much sterner examination of their new look team in the next round. Team - Kevin Nolan, Paddy Ryan, Jack Langton, Sean O Shea. John Murphy 0-3, Lester Ryan, Matt Kenny 0-1. Martin O Connell 0-3, David Langton 0-4. James Nolan 0-2, Conor O Shea 0-7, 0-4f, 0-1 x65, Paul Cody. Liam Ryan 0-3, Chris Bolger 0-2, Jim Kehoe 0-1. Subs used Conor Cody 1-0, Bill Carrigan, Dara Glynn, Gary Kehoe, Peter Nolan.

U13s The Clara U13 side found a host Conahy Shamrocks too strong for them on Friday night in Jenkinstown. They are very young and featured a fair sprinkling of U11 players, which is not easy going up against a bigger, older outfit. 4-14 to 1-9 is how it finished.

CLUB LOTTO There are no winners of this weeks Club Lotto (August 31st) Numbers Drawn were 3, 8, 18, 25 Bonus 4 Next Week’s Jackpot will be €6, 600

Promotors Draw: 1. Aoife Tallis c/o Niall Tallis 2. Mary c/o Padraig Leydon 3. James Gibbs c/o John Joe Cullen 4. Leo Monagle c/o Michael Monagle 5. Caroline Ryan c/o Esther Maher 6. Elizabeth Wall c/o John Joe Cullen 7. Pat Dalton c/o Moxie Doran 8. James O’Keefe c/o Online 9. Marie Byrne c/o Online 10. Niall McEvoy c/o Online Thank You for your continued support www.oloughlingaels.com/lotto

CHAMPIONSHIP SCHEDULE Wed. Sept 8th: u15 A v Carrickshock at MW Hire Dunmore Park 6:30pm (Semi-Final) Thurs Sept 9th: U15Bs v Dicksboro at St. Johns Park 6pm (Rd 1) Fri Sept 10th: U13 A v Dicksboro at St. Johns Park 6pm (Semi-Final) Sat Sept 11: U13B v Mullinavat in Mullinavat at 11am (Qtr Final) Sat Sept 11th: Seniors v Mullinavat at John Locke’s park 2pm Sun Sept 12th: Intermediates v John Lockes at Tullaroan 5pm. Best of Luck to all our teams minors went down to James Stephens in their championship qtr final a er a good battle at St. Johns Park. The intermediate team fell short against Carrickshock on Sunday evening to end an entertaining week of hurling for our members. Thanks to all players and mentors for their continued commitment to the club and development of our games

EMERALDS GAA CLUB Mega Bingo: Every Sunday, 6pm at Urlingford GAA pitch. Gates open at 5pm. Single books and 1 sheet €10. Double books and 2 sheets €15. Extra jackpot sheet €3 or two for €5. Please support. Piltown tickets: Are available from the usual sellers or any committee member. Total prize fund of €115,000. First draw takes place on September 28.

JUNIOR HURLING Championship is starting for juvenile hurling teams this week, all support welcome. Wednesday September 8: First round for U15s vs Mullinavat at 6.30pm in Urlingford Friday September 10: Quarter Final for U13s vs Tullaroan at 6pm in Urlingford; Saturday September 11: First Round for minors vs Rower Inistioge at 6pm in Inistioge.

EMERALDS URLINGFORD & GRAINE LOTTO August 30 prize fund was: €4,400. Jackpot: €2,400. Numbers drawn: 2, 8, 22 and 28, bonus no 18. No winner and three match three winners: Mary Joyce, Anna Mockler Ryan, Michéal Joye. Promoters prize: Doyles. Five lucky dips of €20 each: Barry Joyce, JMR Coady, Mick Tobin, Sighle Hennessy. Next draw takes place on September 6 in the Clubrooms. Results next week.

SYMPATHY Sympathy goes to the Long and Ryan families on the death of Kathleen Long (née Ryan), Togher Road, Urlingford, Kilkenny / Clonoulty, Tipperary which occurred on Wednesday, September 1, 2021. Kathleen passed away peacefully in the exceptional care of the Quinn family and sta at the Sacred Heart Nursing Home, Crosspatrick in her 87th year. Predeceased by her parents Dick and Nancy and sister’s Mary and Delia. Deeply regretted by her heartbroken husband Mick, her loving son and daughter Michael and Mary, son-in-law John, daughter-in-law Frances, adoring grandson Jack, brothers Dick and John, sisters Nancy, Sheila and Betty, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, relatives and a wide circle of friends.

URLINGFORD ON THE MOVE WALKING TRACK Works are commencing shortly for Urlingford on the Move’s new Community Walking Track in Emeralds GAA Clubgrounds, Urlingford, Co Kilkenny. The walk way consists of: Walking surface, lighting, fencing, wheelchair friendly and own access gate. Our vision is to provide a facility in Urlingford where everybody has the opportunity to be welcomed, to participate, to grow and be inspired to continue with a lifelong engagement in our community. Urlingford on the Move have been successful in raising funding from various sources but there is still a shortfall, therefore we need and value your support. You can support this wonderful amenity by donating €20 on their GoFundMe page https://gofund. me/84e0e081 for your chance to win one of three prizes. 1st: €2021; 2nd: €200; 3rd: €50 Donate €50 - three chances to win; donate €100 - seven chances to win a prize. Envelopes have also been distributed to households in the locality, please return these envelopes to the Post O ice. For the next two weeks the Split the Pot is for the Walking Track so please support, thank you.

MILL FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE Courses Beginning Soon: QQI Level 4 LTI, Pathway to Employment course: We are enrolling for the QQI Level 4 LTI course which will be commencing soon. Please contact the centre on 056 8838466 for further information. Health Care QQI Level 5: We are also recruiting new learners for the Health care QQI Level 5 course commencing soon. The Mill Youth Club: Is now returning at the centre on Wednesday, September 8 from 5pm to 6.30pm for children 9-12 years. The Mill Allotments: The Allotments and Community Garden are open to the public from 9am to 6pm Monday to Friday each week. Community Bank Savings: Are available at the Centre. Please contact the Centre for more information on opening an account. Senior Alert: If you need to apply for a Personal Alarm, please contact Sue or Josephine on 056 8838466. Counselling Services: Teens from age 12 upwards, adult and family low cost counselling services are available, please contact Sue for more information or to make an appointment on 056 8838466. Appeal for Clothes Donations: Any clothes donations would be appreciated in aid of teen addiction and general counselling services. Donations can be le into the Centre. Contact Sue on 056 8838466 Services that the Mill FRC provides to the public are: Family Support; One to One Support; Drop in IT Support - computers / laptops & mobile phones; Senior Alert; Community Savings; Room Rental; Social Welfare, HSE, Tax, Garda & Government Forms & advice on completing all forms; Internet Access, Printing & Photocopying, Emailing, Scanning, Typing Service, CV / Cover Letters; Homes for the Elderly.

URLINGFORD ARMS SPLIT THE POT Draw takes place every Sunday evening in the Urlingford Arms Hotel. Last Sunday’s share of the pot was €506 and was won by Biddy Coady, well done Biddy! For the next two weeks, half the pot goes to Urlingford on the Moves Walking Track and the other half could be yours. So don’t miss out, get your envelopes in businesses in town or from any member of the Walking Track committee.

URLINGFORD / GRAINE DEFIBRILLATOR GROUP In case of emergency, call: 085 2726396.

URLINGFORD NEWS Anyone wishing to submit news items, club events, announcements etc can do so by emailing urlingfordnotes@ gmail.com. If you have any photos you wish to include, please forward them to the email address.

COLIN McGREE TOURNAMENT The Colin McGree Memorial Soccer Tournament was held at the Sportsfield at Woodview on Sunday last. This was the 24th year of the tournament in remembrance of Colin who was a talented young footballer. Over 50 boys and girls took part. Captains on the day were Cian Donnelly, Marty Campion Noah Scott, Jamie Walsh, Colin McGree, Jamie Denie e, Evan Ryan and Michael Bergin. A er the opening games The Semi- finals saw Cian Donnelly’s side take on Marty Campion’s side and the second semi- final saw Noah Scott’s team face Evan Ryan’ team in exciting games. The Final saw Marty Campions v Noah Scot s and Martys side came out winners on a score of 5-4. Player of the Tournament was Katleyn Dermody and Player of the match went to Bill Looby The Cup was presented to the winning caption by Liam Mcgree and Liam thanked all the kids who took part and all the parents who attended. He also paid a Big Thanks to Colin’s friends Johnny Flynn and Darren Burke who organize the tournament ever year in his memory.

BIRTHDAY Special birthday wishes are extended to local lady Bertilla Doheny of Woodview, Freshford who celebrated a very special birthday last weekend. Bertilla marked the occasion with her family and friends.

CAMOGIE Congratulations to Kilkenny minor camogie team who defeated Cork in the All Ireland final on Sunday evening last. On the panel was local girl Claire Maher while Paula Murphy (nee Dowling) was a selector with the winning side. Best wishes are extended to local girl Sinead Farrell, Kilkenny Street who is on the Kilkenny Intermediate camogie team playing in the All Ireland on Sunday next at Croke Park. St.Lachtains U15 camogie girls were crowned John West Feile na Gael div 2 champions recently. The feile blitz was held on the previous weekend and they beat all three opponents to qualify for the final held in Clara. They met Danesfort who had topped their group and it was a hard fought victory. Danesfort were dangerous right up to the final whistle but the local girls worked hard to the very end to secure their victory. Well done to each and every player and their dedicated coaches. Team; K.O’Connor, K.Burke, E.Daly, E.O’Connor,E.Martin C.Hickey, B.Keoghan(Capt), ADermody, C.Hickey, T.Kenny Landers, M.Killeen, C.Dermody, A.Whitty, M.Bolger G.Cleere, Subs – M.Dermody, L.Ryan,E.Dalton, C.Nolan, R.Campion, A.McCarthy, A.Gibbons, S.Hickey, M.Phelan, S.Hickey and C.Fly nn Management – L.Cleere, M.Flynn, E.Hickey, M.Hickey, MMcCarthy and P.Murphy.

BABY BOY Congratulations are extended to Adrian and Micheala Dawson of Woodview, Freshford on the birth of their baby boy last weekend. The couple already have two daughters.

TIDY TOWNS Freshford tidy towns committee continue to do tremendous work around the village. With entry having gone in for the Supervalu Tidy Towns competition the committee meet each Wednesday evening at 7pm on the Green. They are always looking for helpers so if you have an hour to spare why not go along and help keep the village looking well.

SOCCER With all quiet on the field of play, the season is hoped to resumed shortly and run fairly to schedule this year. As well as boys underage The Club are intended to enter girls soccer teams also in U9s and U11s . For U11 – born in 2011/2012 and for U9 those born 2013/20114. Anyone interested should get in touch with the Club on facebook page or freshfodtownfc@gmail.com Going forward the Club hope to have U9, U10, U11, U13, U15 and U17s with registration opening in the coming week or so, So keep an eye out on the Clubs facebook page for updates. KILKENNY HERITAGE An exciting new project is underway at St. Lachtains Church, Freshford to enhance interpretation facilities, upgrade the solar heating system and survey the unique 11th century doorway. The select Vestry of St.Lachtains are delighted to have received funding from the community Monuments fund and welcomed the team to Freshford.

LEAVING CERT Congratulations to all the local boys and girls attending various secondary schools who got their Leaving Cert results last week and many of them going on to Third Level College. They are wished all the very best in their next step in life.

GAA NEWS St.Lachtains Intermediate hurlers had their first league championship action last weekend as they travelled to Castlecomer to face Young Ireland’s of Gowran in the opening round of the intermediate league. A tight game throughout seen the local lads fight back in the end to earn a draw on a final score line of 1.17 each. Next up is Conahy Shamrocks who take on in Ballyragget at 2.00pm on Saturday next Team: D Brennan P. White C Bergin S Dawson B Quinn J Maher S. Ra er J Fitzpatrick J. Cleere A. Ra er D Maher N. McGree L. Hickey S. Donnelly P. Killeen. Subs P. Donnelly C Dawson C O’Leary

MEMBERSHIP As the Club get closer to the start of the Club season there is still some outstanding membership. Membership must be paid to be in line for tickets to local club games.Piltown tickets are now on sale and can be purchased from any committee

HERITAGE & DEVELOPMENT GROUP Freshford Heritage Group are delighted to announce that the path resurfacing in the Millennium Park has now been completed. Hopefully this work will prove to be a more pleasant walking experience for everyone who uses the park. The committee would like to acknowledge the grant received from Kilkenny County Council under the Community Enhancement Programme from the Department of Rural ad Community a airs. Also to the acorn Club for helping to fund the shortfall in funding required. They would also appeal to the public to manage any dog fouling in the park, especially on the paths and to use the facilities(scoop, brush & bin) located inside the entrance gate.

PARISH NEWS In the next weeks there will be an increase in attendance at Masses up to 50per cent of the capacity. This increase will begin from Wednesday 8th Sept.., at 9 30 am mass in the Parish Church. While the obligation to attend Sunday mass is still suspended you are encouraged to return. At this time all safety measures will remain in place which includes wearing of masks, social distancing and hand sanitising and full sanitation of the Church a er every celebration. The Parish the internet and phone lines are now back in action following the line upgrade and the o ice hours have returned to the normal schedule.

NOTICES The parish newsletter is available on their website every week and also on the website you are free to pay your dues and make donations or any other contributions and you can find out more about it on the website or feel free to contact Jennifer in the Parish O ice. Please note community notices for the parish newsletter should be le in or emailed to the Parish O ice by 11am on Thursdays. As part of the 1400 year celebrations plans are being put together for a montage of photographs of the Church and Parish’s through the years. If you have any photographs that you think would be appropriate for such a display please call or get in touch with the Parish O ice. The plan is to copy the photographs so be assured all original photographs will be returned to its owner.

U10 HURLING Well done to all our u10 playing in the Aylward cup Last Saturday in Ballyhale. They played some super hurling right to the very end, just narrowly losing out in the shield final .They can all be very proud of their performances.

ANNUAL GAA GOLF CLASSIC The Annual GAA Golf Classic takes place on Saturday 11th September. For bookings or to Sponsor a €50 Tee box with your company name advertised please contact John Shiel 087 6486668, Derek Delaney 087 6343834, James Holden 085 1967675

U13 HURLING The Dunnamaggin U13 Hurlers opened their championship campaign o on Friday evening last with a win when they travelled to Mooncoin to take on Mooncoin. Both sides traded early points but points from NIcky Healy, Aaron McCormack from play and Brian Hickey from a free gave the Dunnamaggin lads early advantage at the first water break 0:4 to 0:1 The second quarter saw Stephen Walsh and Brian add to the scoreboard 0:6 to 0:1 lead at half time. A er the restart two further frees from Brian pushed the lead out but Mooncoin despite the scoreboard were very much in this game and but for some wayward shooting could have been closer. Their work rate did pay dividends eventually when they hit 3 unanswered points. Some solid defending from the Dunnamaggin backs cut short any revival for Moonoin and with Brian putting over frees either side of the water break it looked like it was Dunnamaggins win. Darragh Lyons put over a long range e ort to push the lead out further but credit to Mooncoin who continued to push forward and got their reward with a good goal just on full time. Dunnamaggin 0:11 Mooncoin 1:4

JUNIOR A COUNTY FINAL The Dunnamaggin Junior A’s contested the County final on Sunday 29th in Nowlan Park against Mooncoin. Dunnamaggin got o to a really good start with Adam Fitzparick opening the scoring which was followed up with two points from play from Denis Walsh. Mooncoin did respond with a score but Dunnamaggin added 3 additional points to their 2 as we headed to the water break 0:6 to 0:3. The second quarter was a really even a air with both sides trading points with Mooncoin edging it on the long range e orts but it being cancelled out by a good goal from Denis to send the sides in at half time with Dunnamaggin still in front by 3 points Dunnamaggin 1:10 to Mooncoin 0:10. Mooncoin really came back into this match in the third quarter with 3 quick points to draw them level, they were in a really good purple patch and added a further 4 unanswered points before the water break helped to halt their momentum. Dunnamaggin were not about to let this final get away from them without a fight and five points to Mooncoins 3 helped narrow the gap in the opening minutes of the restart. Denis Walsh was proving very accurate on the frees and closed the gap right down to one point. Dunnamaggin also had a good goal chance which was saved by the keeper and could have edged them in front but with the last stroke of play Mooncoin added another point to put 2 between the sides and give them

the win. Full Time Dunnamaggin 1:16 Mooncoin 0:21

DUNNAMAGGIN DEVELOPMENT GROUP Our next event a 5km Run (or Walk) takes place on Saturday September 25th in conjunction with Adele’s Gazelles. Registration is at 9.30am, some fun spot prizes and refreshments a erwards. More information next week or on our facebook page Dunnamaggin Community News.

DUNAMAGGIN LOCAL LOTTO DRAW - for 30th August 2021 Winning Numbers : 2, 14, 35. No Winner. Winners for Draw for 5 x € 30 Katelyn Jackson ( Mags Cahill ),Sinead Roche ( Nellie Maher) Oliver Herity ( Mary He ernan ),Adam & Liam Connery ( Jas. Kehoe), Ml O Kee e ( Malachy Hogan ) Jackpot for Monday September 6th: €2,050. Draw takes place every Monday in St. Leonards Hall, Dunnamaggin at 9pm. All welcome.

RAS NA mBAN is the Premier women’s cycling event in Ireland. It will run for five days from the 8th to the 12th September with six stages - a total of over 400km of racing action. This year the event will be headquartered in Kilkenny, with a new opening stage in Callan. This is the 35th year of women’s International stage racing in Ireland. The race is compliant with covid rules, and ensures that all competitors, o icials and all interested parties have the safest and best possible experience at the event. All new opening stage, with a 13km circuit finish in Callan, which will o er spectators two chances to view the race from the cordoned o streets. The race circuit is Kilkenny City, Danesfort, Stoneyford, Knocktopher, Kilmoganny, Skaugh, Coolagh and Callan. All welcome to cheer on all the riders and give a big Kilkenny welcome to the brave participants.

THE STORYTELLING SERIES The Storytelling Series - Free Communications Training for Community and Voluntary Groups The Storytelling Series is an exciting FREE training series which will enable us all to feel confident about communicating our value! Public awareness is vital to maximising the work we do, and this series is all about amplifying our impact. Whether you’re a large charity or a voluntary group with limited time and no budget, this training is open to you! Pitching to Press: How to Get your Story Out There with Claire Brennan (BBC, Irish Daily Mirror, Donegal Post) | Weds, 22 September, 11.00am - 12.30pm Making Videos: Basics of Scripting & Filming with Jack Deacon (spunout. ie) | Weds, 29 September, 11.00am - 12.30pm Making Videos: Basics of Film Editing with Tommy Flavin and Kevin O’Regan (The Reelists) | Thurs, 30 September, 11am – 12.30pm Easy Graphic Design with Canva with Ronny Hermosa (Canva, Fair Trade Connection) | Weds, 13 October, 10.30am - 12noon How to Be a Spokesperson for your Organisation with Eleanor Kelly (UCD Innovation Academy, Open Society Foundations) | Weds, 20 October, 11am – 12.30pm. All workshops are delivered online and are free of charge. Any queries, please email Claire McGowran: claire@ wheel.ie.

RECOVERY COLLEGE SOUTHEAST Recovery College SouthEast is o ering workshops to improve your mental health in September. All are free but you need to book. See their timetable at https://www. recoverycollegesoutheast.com/ workshops.html or call them on 086 1746330 Thomastown and Ferrybank

Woman with children who work from home in Callan, Thomastown and Ferrybank are invited to take part in a series of free textile printing workshops. The workshops and creative activities will be led by artist Liz Nilsson and explore pattern making and our sense of place. Workhouse Union extend a special invitation to women from the Syrian Community in County Kilkenny. Places are limited. If you are interested in taking part please contact Hannah McCormick to book a place: hannah@workhouseunion. com or on 0874497868

REMOTE WORKING IN COUNTY KILKENNY – FREE SEMINAR The Local Enterprise O ice of Kilkenny County Council are holding a free Lunchtime Information Seminar on Friday 10th September from 1pm to 2pm. Learn about the supports and opportunities available and also the experiences of people who are already working remotely. You can book online by visiting www.localenterprise.ie/ kilkenny.

KILKENNY VOLUNTEER CENTRE Kilkenny Volunteer Centre are looking for volunteers for the following roles: a Social Media Volunteer to help Alliance Francaise de Kilkenny promote their French classes and events throughout the year. Volunteer Youth Leaders with Ossory Youth throughout the county to support local community based youth clubs for young people aged 12-15 years. Youth Club volunteers will be working hand in hand with young people to make it possible for them to try new things, experience new opportunities and meet new people while socialising safely and having loads of fun. A Volunteer Studio Assistant and Technician for Twilight Group to help them with their newly established Community Based Studio to help with the promotion of all the groups work and Amber Womens Project are keen to get any individual or group involved in their One Million Stars Project. This is a wonderful opportunity to develop your creativity while highlighting the groups work . To find out more or get involved see www.volunteerkilkenny.ie Phone : 0892584946

MOBILE LIBRARY The mobile library is returning, following an absence of eighteen months. It will visit Kilmanagh from 10.55-11.40 on September 8th, October 6th, November 3rd and December 1st. Membership is free. Just bring ID. The sta look forward to meeting all the locals. Enquiries to Library Reception 779 4160.

THE LATE TOM POWER A gentle and unassuming member of our parish community in the person of Tom Power has entered eternal life. Tom spent his entire life, from childhood until the time of his death, at Pollough, Kilmanagh. A farmer by profession, he loved his farm and the various activities involved in bringing it to its full potential. Tom was a loyal and faithful member of Our Lady Queen of Peace choir in Kilmanagh. Whatever the celebration, he was always there. Tom su ered his own cross of loss and sadness on the death of his wife Noreen but, being a person of strong faith, he bore that cross with courage and resignation. Owing to the Covid restrictions the attendance at his obsequies was curtailed. Many people stood at various places on the roadside as the funeral cortege travelled to the church of Our Lady Queen of Peace. Fr. Liam Taylor, P.P., celebrated his requiem mass with members of the family participating. Frances Ryan sang appropriate hymns during the mass. Tom was laid to rest with his beloved Noreen in St. Mary’s cemetery, Ballykee e. Sympathy is expressed to his daughter Helen, son Michael, sister, Kathleen, son in law Colum, daughter in law Patricia (Trish), grandchildren, nieces, cousins, other relatives and many friends. May his strengthened soul rest in the peace of the risen Lord.

SYMPATHY Sympathy is extended to Galatia Ryall and family on the death of her sister, Sr. Angela Kinane, Presentation Convent, Thurles.

SPEEDBACK SIGNS CLLR Michael McCarthy is delighted to welcome the €15.000 announced under the Clar Scheme for Kilmanagh. This is for the provision of Feeder Speedback signs for the Village which hopefully will lead to increased safety for residents and road users. Great credit is due to the Area Engineer and the Community Section of Kilkenny Co Council.

ROADWORKS CLLR Michael McCarthy is delighted to welcome the overlay of the road in Kilmanagh Village from the Post o ice to the top of the village. This will enhance the village and make the road surface better for road users. CLLR McCarthy wishes to thank the Area Engineer and his sta and asks for co-operation for the duration of these works as there will be a road closure and a slight detour.

MOBILE LIBRARY The mobile library is returning, following an absence of eighteen months. It will visit Kilmanagh from 10.55-11.40 on Sept 8th, Oct 6th, Nov 3rd, and Dec 1st. Membership is free. Just bring ID. The sta look forward to meeting all the locals. Enquiries to Library Reception 779 4160.

SOCCER NEWS Results: K & DL Division 2 – River Rangers 3, Castlewarren Celtic 1. Under 12 Schoolboys – River Rangers 2, Evergreen 4. Fixtures : Saturday, September 11 – Under 13 Schoolboys: Highview Athletic v River Rangers in Graiguenamanagh at 11.45 am.

RAS NA MBAN Ras na mBan is the Premier women’s cycling event in Ireland. It will run for five days with a total of six stages to a total of over 400km of racing action. This year the event will be headquartered in Kilkenny, with a new opening stage in Callan. This is the 35th year of women’s International stage racing in Ireland. The race is compliant with covid rules, and ensures that all competitors, o icials and all interested parties have the safest and best possible experience at the event. All new opening stage, with a 13km circuit finish in Callan, which will o er spectators two chances to view the race from the cordoned o streets. The race circuit is Kilkenny City, Danesfort, Stoneyford, Knocktopher, Kilmoganny, Skeaugh, Coolagh, Callan. All welcome to cheer on all the riders.

KILMANAGH NOTES Anyone wishing to submit news items, events, announcements etc. can do so by email only to elanigan18@gmail. com. If you have any photos that you would like included, please send as an attachment.

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL MOBILE LIBRARY SERVICE The mobile library is returning, following an absence of eighteen months. It will visit Gowran from 11.3512.00 on September 10th, October 8th, November 5th, December 3rd AND Goresbridge from 11.20-12.00 on September 22nd, October 20th, November 17th and December 15th. Membership is free. Just bring ID. The sta look forward to meeting all the locals. Enquiries to Library Reception 7794160 Saturday, 4th September. Results as follows: Senior Winner Paul Tobin St Patrick’s 92 Runner Up Joe Ronan Mcdonagh 94 3rd Dean Grannell St Patrick’s 95

Inter Winner Darren Cleere Bagenalstown 98 Runner Up Sean McCormack Lakeside 99 B(18) 3rd David McGrath Bagenalstown 99

Junior Winner Mark Kirk Gowran 104 Runner Up Jamie Power Gowran 106 3rd Dylan Hanrahan Gowran 108

Ladies 0-9 Chrissie Byrne Ryston 102

Ladies 10+ Margaret Courtney Riverdale 121 Huge thanks to all who travelled from far and near to take part. Thanks to local sponsors for the day Farm & Industrial ,Gowran Pharmacy and Daly Farrell Chartered Accountants Thanks to those who were unable to play but supported us also Derek Courtney ,Paddy Robinson, Keith McDonald, Kevin Halligan, Lily Slattery ,Bernie Dunne, Ann Sweeney ,Christy Sweeney and Mary Sherry Finally, thanks to the Gowran ladies for the refreshments all day and to all who helped prepare the course over the last week to have it in top order for the day.

GOWRAN AC Well done to Tom Corrigan and John Leamy who competed in the National Masters Track and Field. Both men trained hard for the 100m, 200m and 400m throughout the last two years. Tom Corrigan O40 men’s, 5th in the 200m, 6th in the 400m John Leamy O45 men’s 6th in the 100m, 4th in the 400m This year’s competition was very strong but both were delighted with their results and a PB for Tom in the 400m.

GOWRAN PARISH Mass is being streamed every morning on Gowran Parish Facebook page, masses this week Gowran Sunday at 11.30.am, Monday at 9.30.am, Wednesday at 9.30am, Thursday at 9.30.am and Friday at 9.30.am.

An evening of prayer will take place in St. Mary’s Abbey Church, Gowran on September 17th at 7.30pm. This will be led by Bishop Denis Nulty.

KILKENNY VOLUNTEER CENTRE Volunteer opportunities available: Alliance Francaise de Kilkenny : are looking for a Social Media Volunteer to help the group promote their French classes and events throughout the year. Ossary Youth are looking for Volunteer Youth Leaders throughout the county to support local community based youth clubs for young people aged 12-15 years. Youth Club volunteers will be working hand in hand with young people to make it possible for them to try new things, experience new opportunities and meet new people while socialising safely and having loads of fun. Twilight Group are looking for a Volunteer Studio Assistant and Technician to help them with their newly established Community Based Studio to help with the promotion of all the groups work. Amber Womens Project are keen to get any individual or group involved in their One Million Stars Project. This is a wonderful opportunity to develop your creativity while highlighting the groups work. To find out more or get involved see www.volunteerkilkenny.ie Phone : 0892584946 Final victory against Cork last night, Sarah O’Donnell has made history by becoming the first Young Irelands Camogie Club Player to Captain a Kilkenny Team to an All-Ireland title. Sarah who was Co-Captain along with Dicksboro’s Niamh Phelan helped Kilkenny to a 2-12 to 0-12 win in the LIT Gaelic Grounds, Limerick in which Thomastown’s Sarah Barcoe was one of the goal scorers along with been named Player of the Match A erwards. Huge Congratulations to Sarah & the rest of the Playing Squad & Management Team on a fantastic triumph. The Young Irelands Club will now be hoping for further All-Ireland glory next Sunday, as last years Kilkenny Minor Co-Captains Ciara O’Kee e & Ti any Fitzgerald line out in the Intermediate decider against Antrim, while Nessa Farrell is part of the management Team. Wishing Ciara, Ti any, Nessa & all of the Players & Management Team the Very Best in their pursuit of bringing another All-Ireland to the Black & Amber.

U-10’S Last Thursday evening 25 of the u10 girls headed to James Stephens on the Kells Road to face a 42 strong James Stephens panel for such a sporting evening. In what was probably the girls best performance to date, the girls did themselves proud scoring goals and points as a result of great teamwork all over the pitch. The girls showed how hard they have worked and improved as the coaching year nears its end. What impressed most was how the girls hurled with passion and pride with a never say die attitude! The girls were out in action again last night (Tuesday) away to Erins Own of Castlecomer.

INTERMEDIATE DENIED BY LATE LACHTAINS GOAL A late St. Lachtains goal from Allie Ra er denied the Young Irelands Intermediates victory in a thrilling first round clash in Castlecomer last Saturday A ernoon. The match finished all square at 1-17 apiece, but the Gowran Men made the perfect start with a Ted Drea goal within seconds of the throw-in. They led 1-6 to 0-8 at half-time, & with Ted Drea & Sean Carey leading the way, they stretched the advantage further with 5 unanswered points before the end of the third quarter. However, the Freshford Men fought back to rally late & deny Young Irelands victory.

U-15’S SUFFER LOSS DESPITE LATE RALLY IN THRILLER O’Loughlin Gaels 1-15 Young Irelands Gowran 2-10 An injury-time goal seemed to have rescued Young Irelands & brought the match to extra-time, but O’Loughlin Gaels grabbed two late points to deny the Gowran Boys as their Championship hopes ended following a thrilling contest at a packed St. Johns Park last Wednesday Evening. In a low scoring first-half, Scores were at a Premium during the opening quarter as O’Loughlins led 0-3 to 0-1. The game opened up a erwards & three pointed frees by Jim Conlon had drawn Young Irelands level by the 23th minute, but moments later an O’Loughlins goal regained the lead & they led 1-5 to 0-6 at the interval. O’Loughlins slowly started to gain supremacy throughout the third quarter, & they built up a 1-8 to 0-7 by the 41st minute. However, the Gowran Boys kept plugging away & with Matthew Murray, David Langton & Jake Kelly leading the way, they narrowed the gap to a solitary point with a brilliantly taken goal from Thomas Langton in the 42nd minute. The City Boys responded & over the next 15 minutes, they outscored Young Irelands 0-5 to 0-1 to build up a 5-point lead entering the last few minutes with victory appearing to be virtually assured. 1-13 to 1-8 However, Young Irelands showed great fighting spirit throughout & points from a Conlon (free) & Billy O’Kee e narrowed the gap to three points, & a er Michael Keating agonizingly missed a goal chance when shooting wide into the side net, they made amends with the levelling goal from Jake Kelly . 1-13 to 2-10 It was O’Loughlins though that had the final say, as they conjured up two late points to grab victory that they just about deserved. Meanwhile last Thursday night, the Young Irelands U-15 B Team lost 2-8 to 2-5 against John Lockes of Callan. Young Irelands were short players who had played throughout the Summer in the League, because of involvement with the U-15 A Team on Wednesday Night that forbidded them from been involved. As a result, a number of the U-13 B Team were called up & they acquitted themselves well on the night. GOWRAN BOYS SURVIVE LATE DANESFORT ONSLAUGHT Young Irelands Gowran 2-8 Danesfort 2-7 It was close & Relief would most certainly be the most appropriate emotion a er last Friday night’s nailbiting finish in the U-13 A1 Championship Quarter-Final clash against Danesfort in Gowran. Leading 2-8 to 0-6, the Gowran Boys were in total control & they appeared to on their way into the Semi-Final, but Danesfort were plucky & resilient throughout, & two goals in quick succession suddenly le Young Irelands sweating anxiously as they now led by just two points. Danesfort added a point from play, but to Young Irelands relief, they held out & now have a Semi-Final clash to look forward to against Rower-Inistioge this Friday Evening 10th September, where improvement will be required if they are to reach a County Final once again. Last night’s match was a repeat of the League Final in which the Gowran Boys won easily, but it was clearly evident from this evening contest that Danesfort were going to be a much tougher nut to crack & so it proved. Aidan Keating & Josef Walsh contributed 2-11 of the Sides Total in the League Final & more than aware of the threat that the duo possesses, the Danesfort defence did their utmost to limit the space & prevent them doing damage. Despite their defence been a lot more watertight that the Corrosponding League Final clash, Keating & Walsh combined for 2-5 of the Scoring Total, with both goals proving significantly decisive either side of Half-Time. A low scoring first-half saw the Gowran Boys lead 1-3 to 0-4 at the interval, with Josef Walsh quickly following up to slot home on the rebound a er Aidan Keating’s initial shot was saved by the Danesfort Goalkeeper. Aidan made amends with a brilliantly well taken goal within a few minutes of the restart to open up a 5-point cushion (2-3 to 0-4), before pointing from play moments later. 2-4 to 0-4. Josef Walsh & David Brennan added further points as they maintained that 6-point advantage at the Water Break - 2-6 to 0-6 - & when both midfielders Kieran Carter & the tireless Joseph Langton pointed to stretch the lead further, they appeared to be home & hosed. However, Danesfort produced the fightback, but to no avail as Young Irelands held on. The Gowran Boys were best served by the excellent Conor Brennan who was consistently good at Full-Back, Goalkeeper Dylan Brennan who showed great bravery in a number of testing situations, while Jonathan Dunne, Joseph Langton, Aidan Keating & Josef Walsh led the way forward.

e Kilkenny & District League Season 2021/22

THE Kilkenny & District League Season 2021/22 is up and running, and after such a fragmented couple of seasons, all involved in soccer locally are hopeful of a full and proper campaign. Due to the new extended club hurling season, there are challenges ahead for a number of clubs who will be struggling numbers wise until sometime in October. ese are well documented challenges and hopefully these clubs and the League Management Committee can come up with the required solutions and everything will run as smoothly as possible.

Pride of place this weekend are the four Maher Shield Quarter Finals. Holders, Evergreen travel to Graiguenamanagh to play Highview Athletic. Although, this is an all Premier Division clash, Evergreen will be warm favourites and are expected to come through. Fellow City side Freebooters are also on the road. ey travel to Durrow to play Second Division Lions who have welcomed former star player Aidan (Roxy) Keenan back into the fold. He will obviously make them a much stronger side, but Freebooters who this season are putting a big emphasis on youth should have too much for the home side. e third member of the ‘Big ree’ omastown Utd travel to Clonard Park, Ballycallan to play Second Division River Rangers. e hosts made a winning start to their league campaign last weekend are a great example of a well run small country club. omastown’s pre season has not gone smoothly and will need to be on their toes as the Rangers will smell a shock. omastown should prevail, but maybe after a fright. e fourth game is undoubtedly the tie of the round. Premier Division Newpark play host to fellow City side, second division St.Canices. Eddie Cli ord’s Waterbarracks men have made great strides in a very short space of time and have been very active in the recruitment department this summer, making a number of high pro le signings. is will make them favourites for Division Two league honours, but also makes them very dangerous cup opposition for all higher ranked opposition. Newpark, under the astute guidance of John ‘ Budgie’ Poyntz are a battle hardened group with a great recent cup pedigree. ey don’t know the meaning of lying down and this game promises to be a thriller. row in the fact that most of the players on both sides will know each other very, and this game becomes very unpredictable. We will give the Newpark men a narrow vote, but any outcome here is possible. e only league action this weekend takes place in Division One. Evergreen C host Fort Rangers in what is both sides rst league outing of the new season. Fort are another side to make a number of new acquisitions in the summer in the hope of regaining their Premier Division status. Evergreen C are a bit of an unknown quantity, so the result of this game will give us a good indication of the direction each sides’ season may take.

Callan Utd play at home to Bunclody in the FAI Junior Cup. Callan are the only K&DL side drawn to play at this stage and will be hopeful of a win which would set them up nicely for a match against Newpark in the next round!!

School boys football is also back, also facing the same challenges regarding the elongated hurling season. We will be keeping a close eye on all things schoolboys over the coming months.

It’s great to be back and we encourage people to get out and support their local soccer team.

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

NAME: JIM NUGENT CLUB: FORT RANGERS F.C. POSITION: GOALKEEPER

FAVOURITE LOCAL PLAYER (EXCLUDING

YOUR OWN CLUB PAST 15 YEARS):DAVY MULCAHY FAVOURITE PREMIERSHIP TEAM: LIVERPOOL FAVOURITE GOALKEEPER: PETER SCHMEICHEL

FAVOURITE STRIKER: FAVOURITE STRIKER:

LIONEL MESSI

FAVOURITE WORLD

PLAYER: LIONEL MESSI

FAVOURITE WORLD FAVOURITE WORLD

MANAGER: JURGEN JURGEN KLOPP

FAVOURITE OTHER

SPORT: HURLING

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STEAK AND CHIPS STEAK AND CHIPS

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CARLING

Camogie news Sport

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR

SPORTSEDITORKILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

KILKENNY claimed the Tesco All-Ireland Minor title with a tremendous 6-point victory over holders’ Cork at LIT Gaelic Grounds last Sunday.

As well as being crowned champions, the young cats also prevented the Leesiders from claiming three consecutive minor titles.

From start to nish, Mike Wall’s young camog’s displayed great skill and all-round good hurling to dethrone Cork. eir speed of thought, movement and team play was too much for the holders to contend with over the course of the game.

Cork to their credit started brightly with points from wing-forwards Orlaith Mullins and Aimee Morgan. omastown’s Sarah Barcoe then got her rst score of the game, before Cork Mid elder and St Finbarrs clubwoman, Ciara Golden restored the rebel’s two-point lead. is appeared to spur Kilkenny on, and they soon found their groove with a ne point from Clara’s Emma Shortall. Soon after, some slack Cork defending saw the ball nds its way to Barcoe, who dispatched it beautifully to the net, to raise the rst green ag of the day.

From the next phase of play, Cork won a free which was duly converted by Aimee Morgan. Going into the rst water-break, Kilkenny held the slightest of advantages, leading 1-2 to 0-4.

When play resumed, the stripey-women assumed total control, and managed to keep the opposition scoreless until the short whistle as the defence, led superbly by joint-captain Niamh Phelan ensured no Niamh Phelan ensured no further ags were raised. At further ags were raised. At the other end, Kilkenny’s pace and forward play was causing lots of problems for the Cork rearguard. A lovely brace of points from Dicksboro’s Amy Cli ord and another from Sarah Barcoe saw the black and amber reach half-time with a four-point lead, on a score line of 1-5 to 0-4. e second-half commenced, and the rst score would come from James Stephen’s Emma Manogue, pushing the cats lead to ve. However, Jerry Wallace’s half-time teamtalk must have instilled some much-needed belief in the rebels, as they went on to enjoy their most fruitful period of the game.

Kilkenny’s defence were now under sustained pressure, and Cork managed to translate this on the scoreboard, with points from Rose Murphy and substitute Eimear O’Brien. ese scores were built on with further ags raised by Kate Redmond and Orlaith Cahalane. Kilkenny’s lead was now only the minimum, Cork’s four unanswered points had caused doubt to creep into the young cat’s game.

Kilkenny substitute Clare Doheny scored a nice point with her rst action of the game to settle the nerves, but again Cork replied win kind with a point from Sars elds Orlaith Mullins.

As referee Ray Kelly blew for the second water-break, you could get a sense of relief from the Kilkenny faithful, while Cork was the opposite. ey believed they had Mike Wall’s team on the back-foot and certainly didn’t welcome the short interval. e beauty of the waterbreaks is that a manager can restore calm, and get his point across in a controlled manner. Mike Wall certainly did that. His charged resumed battle on the front-foot.

Great passages of play saw points registered from as Asha McHardy, Amy as Asha McHardy, Amy Cli ord, Sarah Barcoe and Cli ord, Sarah Barcoe and Emma Shortall – Kilkenny had rebuilt their lead, and they were not going to let it slip this time. en in the 52nd minute, player of the match Sarah Barcoe found Emma Shorthall with a lovely pass, and the wingforward provided the nish that the move deserved. Eight up, the girls knew they just had to manage the closing minutes to take the crown.

Like their senior counterparts, Cork never gives up. ey did reduce the gasp to ve, but ttingly, the brightest of black and amber stars, Sarah Barcoe notched her fourth point to see her team home with a 6-point winning margin, 2-12 to 0-12. Kilkenny, Minor champions for the rst time since 2015.

Scorers for Kilkenny: S Barco 1-4, E Shorthall 1-2, A Cli ord 0-3 (0-2 f), E Manogue, C Doheny, A Mc Hardy 0-1 each. Cork: E O’Brien 0-3 (0-2 f) O Mullins, O Cahalane 0-2 each, A Morgan 0-2 (0-1 f), R Murphy, C Golden 0-1 each. KILKENNY: E O’Neill; L Nolan, N Phelan, R Whelan; A Kirwan, M Corcoran, S Jackson; E Manogue, A Doheny; Manogue, A Doheny; G Glynn, A McHardy, G Glynn, A McHardy, E Shorthall; S Barcoe, S E Shorthall; S Barcoe, S O’Donnell, A Cli ord. O’Donnell, A Cli ord. Subs: C Doheny for A C Doheny for A Dohney (40), R Brennan Dohney (40), R Brennan for S Jackson (inj 55). for S Jackson (inj 55). CORK: C Hurley; C Hurley; A Cashman, M Healy, C Lynch, E O’Driscoll, A Healy, O McAllen Healy, O McAllen (c); M Murphy, C Golden; A Morgan, R Murphy, O Mullins Murphy, O Mullins L Hallihane, M Ring, O Cahalane. Ring, O Cahalane. Subs: E O’Brien for L Hallihane (hfor L Hallihane (ht), K Redmond for C t), K Redmond for C Golden (h-t), L McNulty Golden (h-t), L McNulty for C Lynch (57), G Ryan for C Lynch (57), G Ryan for A Cashman (57), J Doyle for A Cashman (57), J Doyle for C Lynch (57). Referee: Ray Kelly Referee: Ray Kelly (Kildare). (Kildare).

Sarah Barcoe stars in six-point win over rebels

Minor’s claim MAJOR honours!

An emotional Laoise Nolan with her mother Nance a er the game

KK manager Mike Wall

Windgap’s Sontae Jackson battles for the ball

Kilkenny co-captains Niamh Phelan and Sarah O’Donnell li the cup

>> SHERRY SAYS...........

FAIR play to this panel of players.....they believed in Mike Wall’s plan and it worked. play to this panel of players.....they believed in Mike Wall’s plan and it worked.

Building a lead, seeing it all but wiped out, then having the composure to do it all again and hold Building a lead, seeing it all but wiped out, then having the composure to do it all again and hold rm – that is the sign of champions, and that’s what our minor camog’s are – All-Ireland Minor rm – that is the sign of champions, and that’s what our minor camog’s are – All-Ireland Minor

Champions. Champions. Cork caused our young cat’s problems, especially just after half-time. e manager said Cork caused our young cat’s problems, especially just after half-time. e manager said afterwards that the second water-break didn’t contain any huge speech – just the need to afterwards that the second water-break didn’t contain any huge speech – just the need to remain composed and let their hurling do the talking. remain composed and let their hurling do the talking. In Sarah Barcoe Kilkenny have a real gem. Her tally of 1-4 doesn’t alone do her In Sarah Barcoe Kilkenny have a real gem. Her tally of 1-4 doesn’t alone do her performance credit, her speed, movement and pure skill was an absolute joy to behold. performance credit, her speed, movement and pure skill was an absolute joy to behold. e omastown shooter has a big, big future ahead of her. e omastown shooter has a big, big future ahead of her. ese camogs have helped ease the pain of our senior’s semi- nal defeat to Cork. Now let’s hope our Intermediate ladies can be the next team to lift silverware. Now let’s hope our Intermediate ladies can be the next team to lift silverware.

Mairéad Corcoran (KK) and Orlaith Cahalane

Player Name: Sarah WalshClub: Thomastown Position: Forward ‘Look Who’s Talking’ Sporting highlight so far: Feile Division 4 Football Champions 2009.

If you could only listen to 1 singer or band for the rest of your life, who would you choose? Khalid

Pet hate: People walking slowly.

Best Holiday Destination done & to do: Lake Tahoe, Maldives. Sporting Idol & why: Michael Jordan, love his mentality and the belief he always had in himself when playing. If you had to describe yourself in 3 words: Ambitious, Enthusiastic, Witty Party of 6 You are allowed to invite 6 famous people for dinner.....name the 6 chosen guests & reasons for inviting! • Niall Horan: Needs no explaining.• Joe Brolly: Would hold a great debate.• Denzel Washington: Absolute legend.• Dermot Kennedy: Could do a duet with Niall Horan, magic.• Serena Williams: Could coach me to a Wimbledon final.• Joey Essex: Hilarious, would be the ultimate addition.Team mates! • Best trainer - Colette Dormer• Worst trainer - Eva Hynes• Queen of style - Sophie O’Dwyer• Best Taste in music - Ciara Phelan • Worst taste in music - Miriam Bambrick• Most di icult opponent - Meg Farrell

Final duty for Whistler Liz!

It is a momentous occasion for the Kilkenny whistleblower Liz Dempsey, as with this appointment she will now complete the set of refereeing all Championship Final grades.

Liz took charge of the All-Ireland Junior B Final in 2012, the Premier Junior Final in 2014, the Intermediate Final in 2017 and this year will take charge of the Senior Final, which see Galway take on Cork.

The Thomastown referee has an incredible refereeing CV to date.

To add to the appointments above, she has also taken charge of All-Ireland U16 and Minor (A & B) Championship Finals, along with an All-Ireland Senior Club Championship Final and an All-Ireland Intermediate Club Championship Final. She has also refereed a National League Final and an Ashbourne Cup Final.

Everyone at the Kilkenny Observer wishes Liz all the best for Sunday’s final.

Sport

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR

SPORTSEDITORKILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

JOHN Scott’s camog’s will take on Antrim in the ISPCC AllIreland intermediate camogie championship nal at Croke Park this Sunday (2pm throwin). e game is part of a triple-header of camogie nals to be staged at headquarters.

Both sides will take to the eld, con dent of victory, in what should be an evenly contested a air.

When they met in the group stages of this year’s championship, the Ulsterwomen emerged victorious. e four-point win in Dunloy is unlikely to weigh heavily on Kilkenny minds as they make preparations for Sunday’s nal.

During a recent press call, Kilkenny captain Roisin Phelan referenced the defeat and spoke of how it has helped the panel re-focus and improve to reach this season’s decider.

“I think we nearly learned more about ourselves from the Antrim loss, to be honest,” said the Conaghy Shamrocks defender. “We’ve improved massively since then, it was our very rst group game, a couple of months ago now, so I think all the training we’ve put in since then has really stood to us so this time around we’re de nitely more prepared to put up a better ght,” she added.

Phelan’s Antrim counterpart, Lucia McNaughton who was also speaking at the event believes an All-Ireland nal against the cats will be an entirely di erent game. “Yes, we got the victory when we played them at home earlier in the season, but this is a nal, and I wouldn’t read too much into the previous result,” said the Loughgiel clubwoman.

McNaughton’s family are steeped in hurling and camogie history, both at club and county level, and no doubt Lucia will be hoping to celebrate her birthday in style by leading the Sa rons to victory on Sunday. e team from the North will have the pain of last season’s nal defeat to Down to draw on for motivation. Since assuming the reigns of the intermediate team, the management team of Paul McKillen, Jim McKernan and Elaine Dowds have Antrim on the right path, and they will provide sti opposition of our ladies this weekend.

Having seen o the challenge of Galway in the semi- nal at Clones, John Scott’s management team will have earmarked some of the opposition for special attention. Roisin Phelan will need to ensure her defence contains the threat posed by Róisín McCormick and

Ciara Murphy goes in hard

Saffrons battle awaits Scott & Co.

Jack McGrath Cup awaits the winners

Danielle Quigley action Hannah Scott Niamh Leahy

Áine McGill – two very gifted attackers. Mullinavat’s Leann Fennelly was outstanding last time out, and will once again need to lead by example from the number six position.

Following the Sa rons win over Galway, joint-manager Paul McKillen was glowing in his appraisal of his sides victory.

“ at is the best performance we have produced this year. at Galway team came here today to get revenge on the defeat we gave them in the league quarter- nal. ey believed they could reach the nal,” McKillen said.

“But we were up for the game. I have never seen our team playing as well as they did today. And they have played well all year. ey are a great bunch of girls and I don’t think they have got enough praise for what they have been doing.”

“We are back in an AllIreland nal and I think we have beaten one of the best teams in the competition and I don’t mean any disrespect to Kilkenny who are there in the nal. Galway were well set-up, have good players and play a good brand of camogie.”

In their semi- nal win over the Royal County of Meath, no fewer than 6 stripeywomen received yellow cards in a defensive display that highlighted the teams desire to get over the line. Keeping the full complement of players on the eld will be crucial against the glen’s women, so discipline will be key in this winner takes all clash. all clash.

If the Kilkenny defence can If the Kilkenny defence can come out on top, the forwards possess the necessary repower to really trouble the Antrim defence. Sophie O’Dwyer, who has excelled this season with a blistering scoring return, will be crucial in the cats bid for the title. e Sa rons will be aware of the danger that the James Stephens attacker poses to their aspirations. O’Dwyer will be ably supported in attack by Clara’s Ciara O’Keefe, omastown’s Eva Hynes and O’Loughlin Gaels Danielle Quigley.

In the middle third, likely starting pair, Laura Hegarty and Ciara Phelan will be hoping to control this vital zone and limit the in uence of Antrim skipper McNaughton.

When James Stephens clubman was appointed manager, he immediately set his sights on getting this panel of players to Croke Park for an All-Ireland nal. Having previously been a selector for a number of years, Scott’s understanding of the players is clear to see. is nal has the potential to be a classic, but at the end of the day, it’s the result that matters, and John Scott will be hoping to in ict more nal misery on Antrim and in doing so take the Jack McGrath Cup back to Kilkenny for the rst time since 2016. is team has ability, they have passion, they have motivation. Let’s hope they have the luck on Sunday.

>> SHERRY SAYS...

ANOTHER nal for Kilkenny’s Gaels. Following on from our wonderful minor team’s victory in Limerick last week, John Scott’s team take on the challenge of Antrim. At this stage of last year’s competition, the Sa rons su ered a heavy nal defeat to northern neighbours, Down. As a resident of Mourne, I know how that victory was received and what it meant to the clubs across the county.

I would settle for the same outcome on Sunday – an Antrim defeat, but by God it will have to be earned. e task that lies ahead for captain Roisin Phelan and her fellow players is huge. Antrim did get one over Kilkenny earlier this year in Dunloy. But Croker is di erent. I’m hoping our camogs can use the wide-open spaces of headquarters to showcase their skill and ability.

Croke Park is the perfect setting for scoring sensation Sophie O’Dwyer to shine. e crowds will be there, the TV cameras also. e stage is set. Jack McGrath – we’re coming for ye!

Sport

All images: Danny Lahart

St. Canice’s CU senior hurling round 1

O’Loughlin Gaels 1-18 Graigue Ballycallan 0-18

In a hard fought game in Callan on Saturday a goal seven minutes into the second half by Sammy Johnson proves to be the decisive score.

From the start the teams went point to point with Mark Bergin for O’Loughins and Sean Ryan impressive from open play and placed balls.

Both sets of backs dominated their opponents in the rst half with Bob Murphy, Cillian Egan and Conor Flynn hurling well for Ballycallan while Paddy Deegan, Huw Lawlor and Anthony Forristal good for O’Loughins.

e half time break saw O’Loughins lead by a point and on the restart both teams traded points before Johnson struck for his goal seven minutes into the second half. Ballycallan kept plugging away and went into a 1 point lead but a tactical decision to move Paddy Deegan into the forward line payed o and also brought Eoin O’Shea more into the game.

O’Shea got some crucial scores for O’Loughlin’s and they held out for a 3 point win. O’Loughlin’s had good performer’s in Deegan, Lawlor, O’Shea, Forristal, Heary and Mark Bergin while Ballycallan had good performers in Murphy, Egan, Flynn and Sean and Billy Ryan.

O’Loughlin’s v Young Ireland’s u15

Sport

O’Loughlin’s v Young Ireland’s u15

RESULT: Roinn A Championship Qtr Final. O’Loughlin Gaels 1-15 to 2-10 Young Ireland’s

It took a massive e ort by the Gaels in the nal 10mins to maintain the advantage they’d held since early in the game. Greg Kelly got the Gaels o to a ne start with 3 converted frees before the visitors answered with a conversion of their own at the rst water break. From there to the nish it was neck on neck as the homeside failed to press on more with their early advantage. It was one they wouldn’t relinquish however until the 30th minute when Gowran stole through for a goal to even up the scores. e winners dug in for a nal ourish that saw Joe Bolger throw over a point after some quick thinking put Joe in the best position to make the score. It was his second point of the game that nudged the winners ahead again. e resulting puckout was intercepted by Daniel McCormack and fed to Ruarc Sweeney whose run forward was halted illegally for a nal free of the game, duly converted by the team’s talisman Greg Kelly to seal the win.

It was a good e ort all around the eld that saw a team of lads work well together to achieve their goal of a championship semi- nal date in a week’s time v Carrickshock.

Well done to all involved, lovely hurling

Team: M Lambert, J Owens, J Johnson, L Hanrahan, L Quigley, J Tyrrell, C Murphy, C Holohan, G Gelly (1-11, 8f), J Bolger (0-2), J Holohan, T Crowley (0-1), R Sweeney (0-1), E O’Brien, D McCormack. C Byrne, D Powell.

well together to achieve their goal of