TV & Streaming

Gripping courtroom drama worth your weekend binge

IT seems like every other show that has come out this year has been about a scandal either real or imagined. e Girl from Plainville, Inventing Anna, We Crashed, e Dropout – all four of these 2022 shows were dramatisations of true stories. Of course, there’s still plenty of room for scandalous dramas that don’t actually mirror the real world. One such limited series is Anatomy Of A Scandal, which is now on Net ix.

It is a six-episode courtroom drama based on a book by Sarah Vaughan. e series was developed for Net ix by David E. Kelley (Big Little Lies, Nine Perfect Strangers) and Melissa James Gibson (House Of Cards). It stars Sienna Miller, Michelle Dockery, Rupert Friend, Naomi Scott, Josette Simon, and Ben Radcli e.

A psychological thriller and gripping courtroom drama, the series in ltrates Britain’s elite through personal and political scandal, where the truth lies between justice and privilege. James and Sophie Whitehouse live in a blissful and rari ed world.

A British MP, a loving family at home, James’ trajectory appears without limits. Until a scandalous secret suddenly comes to light. Barrister Kate Woodcroft has a trajectory of her own, and her prosecution threatens to tear into Westminster, the Whitehouse marriage, and her own personal esteem.

If you’re looking for a quick binge this weekend, this series should certainly do the trick. All six episodes are all around 45 minutes long, so you should easily be able to nish the entire series in an evening. On the other hand, if you’re looking for the next great TV drama, then look elsewhere. In Angie Han’s review for e Hollywood Reporter, she called Anatomy of a Scandal “unsatisfying as either a lurid thriller or a serious drama”. is seems to be the consensus among the critics. Variety’s Daniel D’Addario says “the show is so addicted to chaos that it squanders its chance to say anything substantive”. Meanwhile, BBC’s Laura Martin found the show to be “unintentionally hilarious.” Needless to say, no one seems to think this is David E. Kelley’s best work.

Of course, not all television needs to be high art. If you’re looking for a quick, trashy thriller to keep you occupied on a rainy Saturday, give Anatomy Of A Scandal a try. Some other crime thrillers worth watching on Net ix are Money Heist, Bodyguard, and e Sinner. e Sinner isn’t actually a Net ix original series, but the rst season is incredibly compelling. In fact, it might be the best work that Jessica Biel has ever done.

Millie a Damsel in distress

FOLLOWING her successful multi-season run at Netflix’s popular original show, Stranger ings, actress Millie Bobby Brown has been cast in the lead role for a new fantasy lm titled Damsel. e lm will revolve around the titular damsel who is dutiful and benevolent and agrees to marry a handsome prince before stumbling upon the truth behind the deal.

She is being sacri ced by the royal family to repay an ancient debt where she is being cast into a cave with a deathly dragon. Unable to help her situation, the damsel must rely on her brains and wits to nd out ways to survive. e story is nothing like the fairytales we usually read where a virginal princess is usually used as bait to break curses. However, it will be exciting to see how Brown manoeuvres her character through these adversities to survive till the very end.

Brown will be joined by Angela Bassett from Black Panther, Forrest Gump‘s Robin Wright, Ray Winstone from e Departed, Brooke Carter from e Peripheral, Shohreh Aghdashloo from e Expanse and Nick Robinson from Jurassic World.

Brown was seen in the lm Enola Holmes which has a sequel scheduled for release this year. Alongside Henry Cavill, Sam Cla in and Helena Bonham Carter, Brown added incredible depth to her character as the titular Enola who is spunky, rebellious and extremely intelligent.

Brown is best known for her role as Eleven on the Du er Brothers’ 80’s-loveletter-cum- sci- series, Stranger ings.

Alongside Finn Wolfhard, Noah Schnapp, Gaten Matarazzo, Caleb McLaughlin, David Harbour, Winona Ryder, Sadie Sink and others, Brown has carved out her own fan following as the loyal friend with psychokinetic powers who helps the other kids in the show nd their friend and battle other adversaries.

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for you to stream right now

Just because a superhero is less wellknown, doesn’t mean he’s any less popular. Starring Oscar Isaac and Ethan Hawke, Moon Knight follows Steven Grant, a museum gift shop worker who’s forced to share a body with anti-hero Marc Spector, who is in turn controlled by a mean Egyptian moon God intent on using Spector as a kind of Earth-bound, justice- serving pawn. Chaos! Despite (and because of ) its lack of tethering to the greater MCU, Moon Knight stands out as an original and entertaining TV show that could equally delight hardcore fans and those who just want to know what TV show everyone’s going to be talking about. Moon Knight has elements of Fight Club, Indiana Jones, James Bond, and Doctor Who. Now streaming on Disney+

Channeling some serious Black Mirror energy, Apple TV+’s Severance sees Adam Scott as Mark, a man who opts for an implant that allows his work memories to be completely cut o from memories of his home life. John Turturro, Christopher Walken, and Patricia Arquette make up the impressive supporting cast. Severance is a visually fascinating work of art, an enthralling mystery, and an anticapitalist takedown of toxic labour practices.

Adapted by Veep writer Will Smith, Slow Horses is a spy thriller that follows a group of disgraced MI5 workers who’ve been put out to pasture in a department for agents with no future career prospects. is one has a pretty stacked cast — Gary Oldman, Kristin Scott omas, Jonathan Pryce, Jack Lowden, and Olivia Cooke all star — and you can watch the rst 20 minutes on YouTube now to help you make your mind up. Om Apple + TV.

e crown of the Shondaland jewel at present, the second season of Bridgerton (Net ix) has graced us with its presence, this time around focusing on the head of the Bridgerton family, Viscount Anthony Bridgerton (Jonathan Bailey), and his quest to nd a wife. Meanwhile, the Ton (and the formidable Lady Whistledown, of course) has a new family to get excited about: the Sharma sisters, Kate and Edwina (Simone Ashley and Charithra Chandran), who are quite frankly the best thing about season two.

It’s been two years since we last got to spend time with everyone’s favourite sketchy lawyer, but now Vince Gilligan and Peter Gould’s Breaking Bad prequel Better Call Saul is coming back for its sixth and nal season. e always-brilliant Bob Odenkirk returns as Saul, and it’s been con rmed that Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul will appear. On Net ix

ATHLETICS The Kilkenny County Athletics Board recently announced their Star Awards for 2021. Receiving the Juvenile Cross Country Award is none other than Clara’s Billy Coogan. Billy, who runs for Gowran AC and Kilkenny CBS was honoured for his first placed finish in the National U17 Steeplechase and his seventh placed finish in the All Ireland Cross Country Under 18, among other achievements. He also represented Ireland in International Schools Competitions. Well done Billy! HURLING The Clara seniors continued their preparation for 2022 with two challenge games against Thomastown and St. Martins over the weekend. Short a number of regulars on both occasions, they su ered a narrow defeat to Thomastown while beating St. Martins. JUNIOR Ds The Junior Ds were well beaten by James Stephens in torrential rain in Clara on Sunday.Team - Bill Cody, Thomas Armitage, Mick McDonald, Brandon Ryan. Paul Murphy, Noelie O Brien, Brian Nolan. Alan Coleman, Rory O Kee e. Eoin Curtis, Adam Barcoe, Ben Nolan. Jamie Agar, Ruairí Breen, Conor (Curly) Phelan. Sub used James Dowling. COUNTY Well done to Conor Phelan who was a selector with Kilkenny seniors as they kicked o their championship campaign with a 5-23 to 1-19 win over Westmeath in Mullingar. Matt Kenny and Chris Bolger are also on the extended panel. Well done also to Rory Glynn who hurled for Kilkenny minors in their one point loss to Dublin in Nowlan Park on Saturday. Despite the loss Kilkenny still topped their group to qualify directly for a Leinster semi final on May 7th. CAMOGIE Hard luck to the Clara U15 girls who bowed out of this years Feile at the Kells Road on Saturday. Well done to Rachel Whelan, Laoise Nolan and Emma Shortall who all started for Kilkenny minors as they beat O aly in the Leinster championship. Also well done to Emma Corr who was part of the county minor B team which beat Meath in their championship clash.

STEPHEN AND AINE TIE THE KNOT The wedding took place recently at St.Columille’s Church Inistioge between Stephen Farrell of Kilkenny Street Freshford and Aine Fahey. The ceremony was performed by Fr.JoeWalsh. The bride was assisted by her sister Siobhan Fahy and Denise Brennan. Best man was Michael Farrell brother of the groom and his fiend Edwin Brennan was Groomsman. Flowergirls were Katie O’Kee e and Aiobheann Brennan. The o ertory gi s were brought to the alter by the mothers of the bride and groom, Josephine Fahey and Anne Farrell .Readings were done by Eamon Needham and Hannah Drennan and the Reflection was done by Aideen Kenny. Praayers of the faithful were read by Sinead Farrell, Erica Moore, Paul Dermody, Clodagh Cleere and Marlis Walsh. Music was performed by Ally Ra er. Reception was held in the Ferrycarrig Hotel, Co.Wexford. Stephen was manager of St.Lachtains Intermediate hurlers who were defeated in the County Final last year while Aine played camogie with Kilkenny Intermediate side and is now an analyst with KCLR for all the camogie games. The couple are honeymooning in Dubai and Australia at present and are wished a long and happy live together. BIRTHDAY BOY Very special birthday wishes go out to well-known local lad Derek Watson Woodview Freshford who celebrated a very special birthday last week. Derek celebrated his 50th and marked the occasion with family and friends at his home EASTER COMMEMORATION The annual Easter Commemoration took place on the Green in Freshford on Sunday last a er 11 am Mass organised by the Local Fianna Fail group . Despite the wet weather a good Crowd attended. There was Music and Song plus a number of appropriate Readings, a Wreath was laid at the Flagpole in the Square. The Tricolour was then Raised by one of our Senior Citizens Mary Bergin, Blackwood, Freshford. The Proclamation was read and refreshments were served in the Community Hall, Cllr Michael McCarthy thanked all the Participants who made the Ceremony an occasion to remember, the Organising Committee, Musicians, Readers, the Articulate M C, the Local Gardai,the organisers of the Memorabilia in the Hall,The Flying Column from Kilkenny, plus all the providers of equipment and the National Flag. He also thanked the many people who supported the Cabarett which was held on Saturday night and those who donated prizes for the ra le , out of which proceeds a handsome Donation will be made to the Irish Red Cross for the benefit of the Ukraine people. SYMPATHY Sympathy is extended to Paddy White, Inch and all his extended family on the death of his aunt Sr.Teresa Ursula(Anna) Kennedy late of Sisters of Charity Sandymount Dublin and formerly of Ballyroe Freshford. Funeral mass takes place on this Wednesday morning at St.Marys Star of Sea Church Sandymount followed by burial in the Community Cemetery Donnybrook. FLEADH CHEOIL Kilkenny County Fleadh Cheoil will take place in Freshford from Friday 22nd April to Sunday 24th. It will start on Friday evening with Ceili with Rise the Dust in the Community Hall at 9pm. Kitchen Session in Kavanagh’s at 9.30pm. On Saturday there will be free workshops in Dance and Music in the Community Centre at 12 noon . Irish Entertainment show with Ceoiltoiri Kilkenny and Guests at St.Lachtains Church of Ireland at 8.30pm, followed by a session in Farrells . On Sunday there will be live entertainment on the square at 12 noon. Competitions in music, dance,song and storytelling in Freshford Community Centre and St.Lachtains Church of Ireland from 2pm. More details can be seen on Facebook at Kilkenny Fleadh or enquiries to Kilkennyfleadh22@gmail. com IONAD LACHTAIN ARTS CENTRE The committee announced recently that the centre will be open at weekends from March 25th onwards. Opening times are 11.30am to 4.30pm every Saturday and Sunday. While visiting, take time to view the Prendergast (nursing) and Barnaville (print) collections in the museum. The displays include a famine pot and a unique Freshford Cavalry medal dating from 1796. The cra shop has also been updated and a wide selection of local cra s is available to purchase including knitted garments and toys, wood turning, paintings, soaps and local literature. All your gi s can be delivered in Freshford souvenir bags with an accompanying Freshford souvenir greeting card. You will find a gi to suit most occasions at the cra shop. SPLIT THE POT The weekly split the pot draw took place on Wednesday of last week and the winner was Angela Fox, Moate Road, Freshford and she won €145. Tickets are just €2 and the winner gets half of the takings. The draw is held each Wednesday and boxes and envelopes can be found in Kavanagh’s Bar, Mace, O’Shea’s corner shop, Girls & Guys Hairdressers, Oasis Creche, Freshford Creamery, Freshford Butchers and Prague House. This months proceeds are going to Freshford Community Café. The Committee would ask you to please support this fund raiser. CAFE Work is continuing presently on Freshfords new Community Café at Buncrussia Street Freshford and the volunteers are making great progress and the subcommittee are most grateful for all the very generous donations of building materials from local families and businesses and greatly appreciate all the materials, time, labour, advice that has been given They say that they are well on their way to having a fabulous community café by the community and for the community. If anyone would like to donate items or give their time or expertise they would be most welcome SOCCER Freshford Town had no games last weekend The Junior side were defeated by table toppers St.Canices in their last outing and have just one more game le in the league now. There were no games in the schoolboys section last weekend either. The training sessions for U8s sessions which are held each Saturday morning (weather permitting) are on their Easter break at present and will resume when the kids return to school each Saturday from 12noon to 1pm at the Sportsfield at Woodview. All boys from 5-8 are most welcome to come along and join in CABARET The Soccer Club held a very successful cabaret on Friday night last in Kavanaghs with Garth Brooks tribute providing the music. This was a fund raiser for the club and they thanked all those who supported the event and the ra le. Among the winners on the night were: O.Ra er , C.Bergin, L.Foley, J.McGrath and A.Ra er.

DARTS The final of the B league took place recently in Kavanaghs when Kavanaghs 1 took on Kavanaghs in a home tie. Kavanaghs 1 came out winners on a 5-3 score. Ollie Colclough got the award for the player of the night. John Paul Kavanagh made the presentation and Peter O’ Shea thanked all that took part in the league and all those who helped out SPRING SERIES OF TALKS Threecastles Community Hall Committee are at present holding their Spring Series of informative talks and Co ee morning as well as a” movie” night. The series consists of three talks, a Co ee morning and one “movie” night. The Committee are hoping that local people as well as the public from Kilkenny City and County will come along to our Community Hall, Tulla Road, to hear very interesting information as well as being able to catch up with friends and neighbours and be entertained at the “Movie” night. The first talk titled – “Fire Safety in the Home” took place on Wednesday 30th March. This talk was given by Jason Bowden, Station O icer, and other members of the Freshford Fire Brigade and was very informative for all of us to stay safe at home. “Waste and Recycling at Home” is the second talk and will be given by Bernadette Moloney, Environment Awareness O icer, Kilkenny County Council. We are all probably recycling but we can always learn how to manage our waste and recycle better. “Magical Memories at the Movies” is next . This will be a night to remember as the renowned videographer Tommy Butler, from Freshford, will show hours of footage from events, hurling matches, shows, school pantos and lots more which he has recorded over years and years. You will enjoy recognizing familiar faces and reliving memorable events. (This is the only event that will have a charge of 5euro.) “Easter Social Co ee Morning” is next in the serioes. This is a chance for everyone to enjoy a chat and a cuppa in our Community Hall. We will also have a ra le so you might even go home with a prize!! “Discovering the Archaeology of Threecastles” is the third talk and this will be given by widely acclaimed archaeologist Coilin O Drisceoill, on Wednesday 11th May at 8pm. Coilin has vast experience in successful “digs” both locally and nationally.

The Flying Column from Kilkenny

Everyone is welcome to come along to one or all of these events. Refreshments will be provided at each of the talks and “movie” night. We would love to see you there and be sure to let other people know about our Spring Series. For further information contact Brenda Cooper Phone 0871369253 COMMUNITY ALERT Freshford /Three castles Community Alert group held their AGM recently . This was hir first AGM since covid restrictions were enforced and the attendance was small due to numbers still been quite high. The following o icers were elected for the forthcoming year; Chairman – John Bergin, Secretary – Jacinta Power, Treasurer – Mick Cormack PRO – Anna Morrissey Anyone wishing to join the text alert scheme or have a personal alarm installed should contact any of the above Committee. It is 10 euro per phone number. New members are always very welcome. The group wish to thank everyone who has joined for their continued support. Please contact any of the committee members to discuss, John Bergin 0862592535, Jacinta Power 0877658672, Mick Cormack 0863535293 or Anna Morrissey 0858277965. GAA St.Lachtains GAA Club ran a very successful Easter Camp again this year. THE CAMP took place last week from Monday the 11th April to Thursday 14th April at St.Lachtains GAA Grounds. From 10am to 2pm each day and accommodated boys and girls from 6-13 years. Even though the weather was very not favourable great fun was had by all with top quality coaches in attendance.. Thanks to all those who attended and special thanks to Michael Farrell, Eoin Dalton and Patrick Donnelly for all their hard work in organising the camp Big thanks also to the coaches who gave up their time to help out throughout the week. The Junior F hurlers had their first outing of the year when they took on neighbours Conahy Shsmrocks on Sunday morning last. In a close game throughout the local lads came out winners by the narrowest of margins with just a point to spare at the end. Team: M.Walsh, D.Quinn, L Kennedy, J.Casntwell, J.Hickey, M.Nolan, J.Bergin, C.Hickey, P.Maher, C.Donnelly, E.Landers, B. Dermody, D.Killeen, C.Power, C.Leahy – Subs J.Kennehy, M.Kavanagh and D.Burke. The U15 side also had success recently when they faced neighbours Fenians and Emeralds in a group based format. St.Lachtains were successful winning both their games and going through to the next round of the competition. The Clubs shop is open and 2022 range is soon to be uploaded onto the O’Neills club shop. Details can be found on St.Lachtains Social media pages or by O’Neill’s sportswear& searching for St.Lachtains Gaa. PARISH NEWS Attendance at mass are now back to full capacity Mass is held in the Parish Church each Wednesday morning at 9.30am and on Sunday morning at 11am.wiith Mass in Tulla church on Saturday evenings at 7.30pm. 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. Parish o ice hours are Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 9am to 1pm. Mass Cards Special printed parish cards are available at the Parish O ice or from Annette at Tulla Church signed by Monsignor Kennedy. You can contact the Parish o ice on 056 8832843 or by email – freshfordd@ossory.ie. Contact Mongr Kieron Kennedy on that number or on 087 25235 PILGRIMAGE Pilgrimage to Lourdes will be held from 9th to 13th May 2022 . Staying at 4 star Hotel Astrid the trip costd €645 pps – single room supplement payable. Accompanied by spiritual director. Includes return direct flights from Dublin to Tarbes, coach transfers breakfast lunch and dinner each day, full religious programme, services of a Marian pilgrimage guide, mass daily and spiritual activities, all taxes and travel insurance. For more details contact C.Flynn on 089 4638769. SQUASH Best wishes to local squash enthusiast Pat Morrissey who is o to Galway this month to represent Ireland in the Home Internationals. Pat would like to thank local businessman Damien Lennon THM on his generous sponsorship of the Over 40s Ireland team. Freshford Squash Club welcome new members anytime for squash and the gym. MACRA NA FEIRME Macra na Feirme are looking to establish a new club in the Freshford area. Macra na Feirme is an organisation for young people between the ages of 17 and 35 who are interested in getting involved in sports, travel drama, debating or just want to meet new people and have some fun. To be a member of Macra you must join a Macra club in your area. This will open the door to new fiends and new activities. There are hundreds of clubs across Ireland bursting with activity who always welcome a new face. For more information please contact Training and Development O icer – Michael Wall on 0868359891 or email him at mwall@macra.ie HELP FOR ALL Are you struggling with anxiety or depression or finding life di icult or feeling isolated at this time GROW is there to help you. Their Mental Health support Groups are free and confidential and open to all no referral or booking is needed. For more information on same you can contact Mary on 087 284342 If you can’t cope and need support text HELLO to 50808 . SAMARITAN - Whatever you’re going through a Samaritan will face it with you – available 24 hours a day 365 days a year – Freephone 1161Alone is available for older people who need support and you can call them on 0818 222024 (8am to 8pm) AMBER KILKENNY WOMENS REFUGE – is available for confidential support relating to domestic violence - call them on 1850 424244 (24/7) or on 056 7771404 or email into@amberwomensrefuge.ie.

LOCAL LOTTO Lotto Results: Winning Numbers for April 11th : 33,34,36 No Winner. Winners of Draw for 5 x € 30. Pauline Flynn ( Pauline Flynn ), Shane Cahill ( Mags Cahill ), Sinead ( Kathleen Kirwan ), Nora Murphy ( Jimmy McCormack ),Ber Moore ( Malachy Hogan ). Jackpot next week April 18th: € 1,450 Venue: Townsend’s Bar, Dunnamaggin @ 9pm. All Welcome ROSARY Rosary at The Grotto Baurscobe, Dunnamaggin will start on the first Monday in May and continue monthly on the first Monday until September. All Welcome. DUNNAMAGGIN LADIES FOOTBALL Well done to our adult team who had their first league match and first league win on Sunday against John Lockes. Despite miserable wet conditions there was some great football played by both sides. Dunnamaggin just had the edge on the day and the final score was 1-13 to 2-03. MADGE’S GARDEN Madge’s Garden Easter Market: the first market of the year was held last Sunday a er the Pat Walsh annual commemoration. While the weather was a little inclement there was a good turnout. The children enjoyed the Easter Egg Hunt and Colouring Competition, Eamo’s BBQ and the Pop Up Café were very busy and all who came had a great a ernoon. Our next market takes place on the last Sunday in May, the 29th, and will have a flower theme, lots of cra and food stalls, Eamo’s BBQ and the Cafe will also be open. Visit our facebook page for information on what is happening in Dunnamaggin. (Dunnamaggin Community News). DROICHEAD FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE Droichead Family Resource Centre on West Street in Callan o ers a variety of services and has a number of community groups running each week. Babies and Bumps is a group for expectant parents and those with under 1s and runs 11.30am – 12.30 pm on Mondays. Contact Jess on 085 8564950. Callan Men’s Shed at Droichead FRC meet on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays 11am – 4pm for members. New members are always welcome, for more information please contact Droichead Family Resource Centre. A Women’s Group meets every Tuesday from 10am-12pm and have some spaces available. Upcoming activities include Smart Phone Photography, Gardening and Cookery. Contact Jess on 085 8564950. Our low cost Counselling and Play Therapy services are now taking new referrals. If you or your child is struggling with any issues and you’d like support we may be able to help. Contact Olive on 056 7755660. Did you know that there is a low cost typing and photocopying service available in Droichead Family Resource Centre? For more information and to keep up to date with all of the services , supports and community groups available at Droichead Family Resource Centre follow us on Instagram and facebook or call the centre on (056) 7755660. LOCAL ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY PLANS An Invitation to participate in an important workshop “Ensuring that the new Local Economic and Community Plans (LECPs) are Truly Sustainable” As the review of the first 6 year LECP comes to an end, processes are already underway to create the new 6 year plan for 2022-2027. Steering Groups have been set up in most Local Authority areas and these will oversee the development and implementation of the plans. LECPs are intended to support sustainable development at local authority level. In so doing, for better or worse, they guide the expenditure of very large sums of money. They should also form the local element of the national development framework and support collaboration to increase the quality of life in our communities. This has never been more important as we look to support a sustainable recovery from the impact of the pandemic and prepare for the growing impacts of Climate Change. However the quality of the plans and the sustainability of the outcomes will depend on the quality of engagement with their development and implementation. It is hoped that this workshop will initiate greater understanding of the importance of these plans, and a greater local engagement with them. Date: Wed 27th April 7.30-9.00pm Please register in advance at this address: https://us02web.zoom. us/meeting/register/tZIsd--trDkjHdE2RWK_hzKZIV24u7T0ntjQ KILKENNY AGE FRIENDLY COMMUNITY Kilkenny Age Friendly Older Peoples Council would like to hear from you. It is important that we hear the voice of all older people throughout the county and to ensure that we are doing so we are holding a number of Age Friendly Community Gatherings where we invite older people to come along and let us know what they see as the issues that are relevant and important to them. These Community Gatherings will be run at the following locations and dates: Urlingford FRC 6th May 2022. Ferrybank Community Centre. 20th May 2022 Castlecomer Community Hall. 15th June 2022. Mullinavat Community Centre. 30th June 2022. Graiguenamanagh Hub. July 2022 tbc Please come along and bring some friends. It will start with Registration Tea/Co ee at 9.15 and finishing at 12.30/1pm. If you would like further information please email agefriendlycounty@gmail.com or text 0876210589.

GOWRAN PARK Racing takes place on Wednesday, 4th May. Tickets now available online, www.gowranpark.ie GOWRAN ATHLETIC CLUB Congratulations to Gowran AC on winning best overall club at Track and Field in Kilmacow at the St Senan’s Open Sports day. Well done to all who came and participated. Lots of good individual and team performances. THE KILKENNY COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL The festival is back this year in Gowran Park, and it will take place on Sunday 3rd July featuring a host of top-class Country Singers. Performing on the day will be Mike Denver, Cliona Hagan, Robert Mizzell, Trudi Lalor, Jimmy and Claudia Buckley with backing band The Conquerors. Tickets now on Sale and for further information, check out kilkennycountrymusicfestival.ie or email kkcountrymusic@gmail.com GOWRAN FESTIVAL OF SPEED The festival is taking place on Sunday, 21st August. Tickets available online,www.gowranpark.ie SPORTS ROUND-UP MICHAEL O’LEARY MEMORABLE EASTER WEEK FOR LOCAL HORSE TRAINER Local Horse Trainer Jimmy Barcoe had an Easter Week to remember with victories in both Tramore and Clonmel. Jimmy enjoyed a 1-2 in the Anne Valley Walk Handicap Hurdle when 9/1 shot Frazel Express ran out a very impressive 9 length winner from stablemate Allez George who returned at a starting price of 40/1. Both horses are owned by Yvonne Hennessy It was the first time the duo had the first and second in the same race, while last Thursday Courting Vickie at 16/1 won the Happy Easter to all our Patrons Handicap Hurdle. MINOR HURLING Minors make it a hat-trick of victories a er hard fought battle Young Irelands 1-9, Erins Own Castlecomer 1-6 It was a most miserable evening for Hurling, but full credit to both Young Irelands and Erins Own Castlecomer for the honest endeavourment and commitment provided in such di icult weather conditions on a very wet playing surface. Young Irelands dominated the majority of the first half and they made a very good start to build up a 0-4 to 0-1 lead a er 11 minutes with Michael Keating, Cian Phelan, Eoghan O’Neill and Luke Phelan all on target. A goalmouth scramble that ended with a Young Irelands goal confirmed their early superior dominance as they extended their advantage further. 1-4 to 0-1. Another point followed shortly a erwards, but the Erins Own contingent replied with a brilliantly taken superb goal late in the first-half, as Young Irelands led 1-6 to 1-2 at the interval. The Second-Half became a greater nightmare as conditions continued to detioriorate. Cian Phelan pointed further frees in the 38th and 40th minutes to stretch the lead - 1-8 to 1-3 - and they maintained a 5 point lead entering the final 10 minutes. 1-9 to 1-4. Erins Own dominated possession throughout the final quarter and the Young Irelands defence constantly had to survive an onslaught. To their credit they stood up well with Jake Kelly, David Langton and Shane Simpson excelling. Meanwhile, on Holy Thursday Evening, the Young Irelands Minor B Team put up a late rally that ultimately saw them fall short as they lost 0-12 to 0-11 against Carrickshock. SPORT STAR AWARD Billy Coogan named March winner of David Buggy Motors Kilkenny sport star award Congratulations to Billy Coogan who is the winner of the David Buggy Motors Kilkenny Sport Star Award for the month of March on KCLR. The Gowran Athletic Club runner was a member of the Irish Under 17 schools’ cross-country team that took home silver at the SIABs in March, marking his second time to represent Ireland in the last six months. CAMOGIE The U-16s lost their first game of the Summer League 9-4 to 3-6 away to Mullinavat, while the U-14s were scheduled to be in action last night at home to Carrickshock.

CLUB LOTTO Dicksboro Club LOTTO Results April 17 th . Nos: 11–13- 15 – 4Jackpot: €9,100– not won Draw Prizes €50: Katrina Fitzpatrick c/o Brian Fitzpatrick .€25 each Conor O’ Grady c/o Online. €25 each Enda O’ Donoghue c/o Tom O’ Donoghue. €25 each Gina Gaule c/o Gina Gaule. Co op draw ticket Donal Lyons c/o Online. Promotors prize Tommy Hackett. New weeks draw €9,250 25th of april SENIOR FOOTBALL Well done to our Senior Footballers who defeated O Loughlin Gaels in Palmerstown on Friday. 2-08 to 1-07. Our lads now play Mullinavat next week. JUNIOR D AND F HURLING Our Junior D and F hurlers got their campaign o at the weekends with games against Rower Inistioge in Palmerstown and away at Windgap. KILKENNY MINOR HURLING Hard luck to the Kilkenny Minors on Saturday as they were defeated by Dublin in their Leinster campaign. Well done to the three Boro hurlers on the team with Mikey, Evan & team captain Tom involved. Dicksboro Minor team had a great win on Thursday evening in the league against Graigue Ballycallan. CLUB REGISTERATION Many thanks to all those who have registered to date. The closing date for registration this year of March 31st has passed, all members must be registered now to take to the field. Registration is available through the membership option on ClubZap and a phased payment option is available. Any members who are having di iculty paying online can contact a member from the executive to arrange a cash payment facility. Many thanks. PALMERSTOWN CLUBHOUSE Palmerstown Clubhouse reopen. Dicksboro Clubhouse Bar is reopened Thursday from 8.30pm and every Thursday going forward. Thursday nights is Lotto Draw and Cards Night All are welcome out for a social drink, a chat and if there is interest, a beginners cards table. We are o ering a particular welcome to all of our senior citizens members, it’s been a di icult past two years and we would be delighted to see you out to the club for a chat. We have a selection of non-alcoholic beers, barista co ee and all the usuals CALLAN GOLF CLUB This week sees the first of our teams in action as our Senior Cup team face Kilkenny Golf Club Sunday the 24th at 3pm, all support welcome. We would like to wish everyone the best of luck. The club classic has been scheduled for Friday the 3rd of June to Monday the 6th of June, further details on fees and prizes to be announced later. MENS SECTION Men’s Weekend Singles Stableford Results - 9th April 2022 Overall Winner: Mark Burns (07) 42pts. Division 1: Sean Brett (05) 38pts. Gross: Je rey Lynch (-01) 32pts. Division 2: Eoin Go (18) 38pts. O’Dwyers Golf Open Wednesday Singles Overall Winner: Billy Mernagh (19) 43pts. Overall Runnerup: James Logue(10) 41pts. Overall Third: Benny McGuire (14) 41pts. Gross: Sean Brett (04) 36pts. James Young Kilkenny Golf Club qualifies as best visitor for the end of season Grand Final. LADIES SECTION Thursday Senior Ladies Results 1st Marian Butler 25pts. 2nd Ann Needham 25pts. 3rd Mary Grace 23pts. 4th Patsy Murphy 22pts. 5th Maura Holden JUNIOR SECTION This Friday the 22rd sees the beginning of the junior season. The competition will commence from 8.30am. The junior section has a lot of upcoming mini projects underway, such as new cards for both junior and cadet score cards. Also, the introduction of the new cadet tees will be launched this Saturday the 24th at 5pm, all members and parents welcome.

Kilkenny Camogie 20 20 All Ireland & 2021

LEAGUE WINNERS MEDAL PRESENTATION

e Kilkenny Camogie board held a medal presentation for the 2020 All Ireland Champions and the 2021 National League Champions in the Springhill Court Hotel on Saturday evening last. It had been a long wait before the players and management could be honoured for their achievements. Hilda Breslin President of the Camogie Association was the guest of honour and presented the players with their medals. Also present were Fidelis Doherty Chairperson of Kilkenny County Council, Pat Murphy Co-Chair of Glanbia co-op. e event had been organised by eresa Aylward Kilkenny Camogie Chairperson and her team and they did a fantastic job. MC’s Martin Quilty and Paula Murphy were superb and kept the proceedings going during the evening. e event was to honour the players who had been victorious against Galway in

Kilkenny Camogie 20 20 All Ireland & 2021

LEAGUE WINNERS MEDAL PRESENTATION

All pix: Danny Lahart Danny Lahart

the 2020 All Ireland Senior nal which was played in December of that year due to the pandemic and was held behind closed doors in Croke Park. It was a time when sport gave players some relief from all the trial and tribulations of the covid pandemic and allowed them to be free for an hour and do what they love to do and play the game that they love to play. It was only the second time that Kilkenny had won the All Ireland in the noughties having previously won in 2016 after a 22year gap. Galway had beaten the team in the previous decider in 2019. Kilkenny then played the same opposition in the National League Final in 2021 and came away victorious on that day also. ey couldn’t do back-to-back titles as Cork beat them in the Semi Final which gave Kilkenny a break till the start of the 2022 League.

Hurling matters

Sport

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR

SPORTSEDITORKILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

Leinster Minor Hurling Championship Kilkenny 2-16 (22) Dublin 3-14 (23)

UPMC Nowlan Park

THE Metropolitans claimed the bragging rights following a hard earned one point victory over Kilkenny at UPMC Nowlan Park last Saturday.

Following the young Cats win against Wexford in the opening game, expectations were high going into the game against Collie Maher’s boys in blue. e provincial tussle at minor level has been intriguing, with all sides gaining one win from their games to date.

Niall Bergin’s charges quali ed for the semi- nal stage of the competition, by virtue of scoring di erence, thanks to Eoghan Lyng’s injury time goal against the Dubs. e Cats boss will know that there is plenty of improvement in his young side, as they look to build on their start.

Kilkenny came out of the blocks quickly and took the lead inside the rst couple of minutes, thanks to a ne point from Graigue-Ballycallan’s Je Neary. ings nearly got a whole lot better for the home side shortly after, when Anthony Ireland-Wall’s goal-bound e ort was icked behind by Dublin’s goalkeeper, Senan Clarke. e Noresiders number 12, Aaron McEvoy slotted over the resulting ‘65, to extend his team’s lead. e visitors got o the mark soon after, when Kilkenny centre-back Eoghan Lyng has rather harshly adjudged to have over-carried. Erins Own’s Ollie Ga ney made no mistake as he red over the free. Dublin were level soon afterwards, when corner-forward Tomas Moore turned his man before striking over a nice point.

O’Loughlin’s club man Greg Kelly then struck a point from some 65 metres, following some nice team play and patience shown by the young lads in black and amber. en with 9 minutes on the clock, the rst green ag of the day was raised. Eoghan Lyng’s free from distance dropped in and around the danger zone and Danesfort attacker Anthony Ireland-Wall struck the ball to the Dublin net with a sumptuous strike. e home supporters had hardly nished celebrating the cracking strike from IrelandWall, when James Bergin’s charges raised what was to be the rst of three majors for the Capital team. Ollie Ga ney took control of the ball from the puck-out and drove forward. e Erins Own player passed to the on-running David Purcell who dispatched his shot beyond Stephen Manogue in the Kilkenny goal. Not to be outdone by his mid eld partner, Sam Lewis then sent over a ne point to bring the sides level.

On 12 minutes, Aaron McEvoy pointed from a free to edge his side ahead, and soon after he pointed from play to put Kilkenny two points ahead. His point from play came after some wonderful improvisation by his captain, Tom McPhillips. e Dicksboro player battled with his marker, lost his hurl, but had the presence of mind to kick the ball forward to McEvoy, who did the rest from more than 45 metres out. e home side then hit a third point on the bounce following some wonderful team play. Eoghan Lyng picked out Anthony Ireland-Wall with a lovely pass, and the corner forward laid the ball o to Marty Murphy. e TullogherRosbercon man game the move the nish it deserved as Kilkenny moved 3 points ahead.

Dublin needed to respond and boy did they. First up, their captain Cian Moran struck over a long-range free to delight of the large travelling support. en on 19 minutes, the boys in blue got their second major of the day. Cats keeper Stephen Manogue made a great save, and as the James Stephens player tried to clear his lines, the ball was blocked. Conor Newton reacted quickest and red the ball to the Kilkenny net. e Dublin supporters well and truly found their voices inside UPMC Nowlan Park. Cian Moran then slotted over his second longrange e ort of the day to put the Metropolitans 2 points ahead.

It appeared the home side were wobbling a little. Clara forward Rory Glynn then pointed from a tight angle, nishing o a lovely move involving Tom McPhillips and Je Neary. Dublin centreback Senan Crosbie, who’s powerful forward runs had been causing the home side problems from the start, then strode into Cats territory before unleashing a ne strike that sailed between

his marker, lost his hurl, but had metres out. e home side then the nish it deserved as Kilkenny Manogue made a great save, and Dublin supporters well and truly range e ort of the day to put the It appeared the home side were powerful forward runs had been causing the home side problems

Rory Glynn gets his shot away

Dubs pip Cats in Nowlan Park battle battle

Bergin’s boys make provincial provincial semi despite despite defeat

Dubs pip Cats in

Greg Kelly takes the catch Anthony IrelandWall takes control

Ivan Bolger stays close to Conor Brennan

the Kilkenny posts. Naomh Barrog’s Michael Tierney then put the visitors 3 ahead with 26 minutes on the clock.

Kilkenny managed to close the gap before the short whistle, thanks to another well-worked team score, this time James Stephens Ed McDermott got the nal touch. Aaron McEvoy then slotted over another placed ball, to leave just the minimum between the teams at half-time, Kilkenny 1-9, Dublin 2-7. e home side opened the scoring in the second half, via another free from Graigue-Ballycallan’s Aaron McEvoy. e same player added to his personal tally a minute later, following a foul on Marty Murphy. Murphy then got on the score sheet himself, following some great pressure from the Cats as they forced a turnover. Wexford referee Gearoid McGrath then harshly showed Timmy Kelly a yellow card, and Dublin captain Cian Moran again showed his accuracy from distance with a ne free. Collie Maher’s men then turned the game on its head again. Ollie Ga ney, a constant thorn in the home sides defence, now operating on the edge of the square, struck a lovely point from over the shoulder, before hitting his sides third major. A Dublin attack looked to have been thwarted, but as Billy O’Neill attempted to clear, he was blocked and that man Ga ney made no mistake as struck the ball home. Aaron McEvoy then sent over another free from about 45 metres out as he tried to stem the rising Dublin tide. Again, the boys from the Capital responded and their captain Cian Moran struck over two points in a row, one from a ‘65, the other another long range free. Kilkenny captain, Tom McPhillips then stepped forward and pointed, but the next score came from a blue shirt as fullforward Conor Brennan got on the score sheet.

Je Neary then pointed to reduce the arrears before Dublin keeper Senan Clarke prevented a nearcertain goal from Anthony IrelandWall. e home side managed to rescue a point from the situation via Rory Glynn. e visitors starman Ollie Ga ney then almost hit another goal, but the ball just went over the bar, before the same player pointed from a placed ball to leave the boys in blue 4 ahead in injury time.

To their credit, Kilkenny kept going. Referee McGrath awarded the home side a 20-metre free. Eoghan Lyng stood over it knowing to give his side any chance, a goal was needed. e Rower-Inistioge player struck his shot well and it somehow crossed the line, despite the entire Dublin population appearing to be lining the goal.

Time was not to be Kilkenny’s friend, as the long whistle sounded to bring a hugely entertaining encounter to an end. Dublin victorious. Final score, Kilkenny 2-16, Dublin 3-14. Scorers Kilkenny - Aaron McEvoy (0-7, 0-5 frees, 0-1 65); Anthony Ireland-Wall (1-0); Eoghan Lyng (1-0, free); Je Neary, Rory Glynn, Marty Murphy (0-2 each); Greg Kelly, Tom McPhillips, Ed McDermott (0-1 each). Scorers Dublin - Ollie Ga ney (14, 0-2 frees); Cian Moran (0-5, 0-4 frees, 0-1 65); Conor Newton, David Purcell (1-0 each); Tomas Moore (0-2); Sam Lewis, Conor Brennan, Senan Crosbie (0-1 each). Kilkenny - Sean Manogue (James Stephens); Rory Garrett (Fenians), Evan Murphy (Dicksboro), Billy O’Neill (Graigue-Ballycallan); Timmy Kelly (Bennettsbridge), Eoghan Lyng (Rower-Inistioge), Ivan Bolger (Graignamanagh); Tom McPhillips (Dicksboro, capt), Greg Kelly (O’Loughlin Gaels); Ed McDermott (James Stephens), Je Neary (Graigue-Ballycallan), Aaron McEvoy (Graigue-Ballycallan); Rory Glynn (Clara), Marty Murphy (Tullogher-Rosbercon), Anthony Ireland-Wall (Danesfort). Subs: Micheál Ahern, Mikey Stynes, CJ Fitzpatrick Dublin - Senan Clarke; Brendan Kenny, Dylan Brennan, Ben Lynch; Eoghan O’Riordan, Senan Crosbie, Cian Moran; David Purcell, Sam Lewis; Ollie Ga ney, Ciaran Donovan, Micheál Tierney; Tomás Moore, Conor Brennan, Conor Newton. Subs: Darragh Lyons, Ruán O’Connor, Tommy Butler Referee – Gearoid McGrath (Wexford). eyes on the prize

>> SHERRY SAYS...

This was always going to be a close encounter. Two really competitive sides going toe-to-toe at the home of Kilkenny hurling. Dublin came out on the right side of the result. Niall Bergin will know that his side did have the chances to win the match, but I’d imagine he will be both pleased and relieved to make the semifinals. Aaron McEvoy missed a couple of chances, but he top scored with 0-7. Marty Murphy looks a real handful on the edge of the square, and we may see more direct ball going into the Tullogher-Rosbercon man as the championship progresses. In the corners, Rory Glynn and Anthony Ireland-Wall were lively throughout, and there is definitely gear in both these lads. om McPhillips and Greg Kelly look like they could form a useful midfield partnership. Eoghan Lyng’s ability to read the game at ‘6’ also allows the Rower-Inistioge to get on plenty of ball and use his undoubted passing ability to build attacks. Keep an eye on Niall Bergin’s charges.... they have plenty more in the tank.

Sport

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR

SPORTSEDITORKILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

Leinster Senior Hurling Championship 2022 TEG Cusack Park, Mullingar Westmeath 1-19 Kilkenny 5-23

THE nal score line was perhaps a little harsh on a gallant Westmeath, as they eventually succumbed to a Kilkenny team that came alive in the second half in Mullingar. e Lake County will take plenty from this game, their rst against Kilkenny in championship hurling since 2006 and despite the defeat, they will be hopeful of building on a rst half that promised much. In fact, Joe Fortune’s charges, probably didn’t deserve to trail at the interval, having more than matched their illustrious opponents during the opening period.

Indeed, I for one didn’t expect to see TJ Reid back in the black & amber this month, let alone gracing the turf at TEG Cusack Park. To his credit, the Shamrocks man went on to hit 1-4 following his half-time introduction, and it was clear to see that his return lifted and drove his team on in the second period.

Before the action got under way, Westmeath made two changes to the team sheet, with Kevin Regan replacing Aonghus Clarke and Niall O’Brien coming in for Jack Gillen. Kilkenny lined out as selected. e home side got o to a fast start, with their placed ball specialist, Killian Doyle getting the rst score of the game in the opening minute. e Cats responded in good fashion, and drew level, thanks to a nice point from Tullaroan’s Padraig Walsh. Shortly after, there was a possible goal chance for the hosts, but lively forward Joey Boyle opted to pop the ball over the bar.

Raharney’s Doyle then slotted over two more free’s to leave the Maroon’s 3 points ahead after just ve minutes of action in front of the near 2,500 spectators in attendance. e visitors pegged their hosts back with two points in succession, one from a free from Glenmore’s Alan Murphy, the other from the returning Adrian Mullen, who had been restored to the Cats starting line-up.

As predicted, any Kilkenny indiscretions were being punished by the accurate Killian Doyle, and the sharpshooter notched another on eight minutes. Cody’s men were level by the 12th minute, with thanks to Walter Walsh who red over a lovely point, before Alan Murphy pointed from the placed ball, as Westmeath’s

Cormac Boyle picked up an early yellow card for the home side. e maroon’s number 15 slotted over another free before Padraig Walsh red over a lovely point from long range to level matters as the rst quarter came to an end. e Noresiders almost raised a green ag and were only denied following a ne save by Conor Bracken, as the Lake County’s net minder managed to stop Padraig Walsh’s goal bound e ort. e home side immediately broke forward and scored a peach of a point from play thanks to a ne nish from Killian Doyle. at man Doyle then struck his seventh score of the day, before hitting a monster point from distance as the home crowd dared to dream. Niall O’Brien, a late inclusion on Joe Fortune’s starting XV, then ri ed over a point to leave the hosts four points to the good after 22 minutes of play. en came the moment when the home sides momentum has halted. Westmeath centre-back, Tommy Doyle, who had been having a good game, attempted to halt the run of Mossy Keoghan. Doyle managed to get a partial block on the Tullaroan man’s shot, but Clare whistler Rory McGann played advantage and the supporting Mikey Carey ri ed his shot beyond Bracken in the Westmeath Before the action got under way, Westmeath made two changes to the team sheet, with Kevin Regan replacing Aonghus Clarke and Niall O’Brien coming in for Jack Gillen. Kilkenny lined out as selected. e home side got o to a fast start, with their placed ball specialist, Killian Doyle getting the rst score of the game in the opening minute. e Cats responded in good fashion, and drew level, thanks to a nice point from Tullaroan’s Padraig Walsh. Shortly after, there was a possible goal chance for the hosts, but lively forward Joey Boyle opted to pop the ball over the bar. Raharney’s Doyle then slotted over two more free’s to leave the Maroon’s 3 points ahead after just ve minutes of action in front of the near 2,500 spectators in attendance. e visitors pegged their hosts back with two points in succession, one goal, to raise the rst green ag of the day. is goal appeared to be the catalyst for Brian Cody’s men to go through the gears, as the visitors accounted for six of the next eight points in Cusack Park. A couple of further free’s from the reliable Alan Murphy put the Cats ahead, before Padraig Walsh got his third score of the afternoon. Cian Kenny, making his championship debit also notched a point before the short whistle, in what was to be his last action of the day as Westmeath kept in touch via Killian Doyle. e half-time score line read Westmeath 0-12, Kilkenny 1-12. e from a free from Glenmore’s Alan Murphy, the other from the returning Adrian Mullen, who had been restored to the Cats starting line-up.

As predicted, any Kilkenny indiscretions were being punished by the accurate Killian Doyle, and the sharpshooter notched another on eight minutes. Cody’s men were level by the 12th minute, with thanks to Walter Walsh who red over a lovely point, before Alan Murphy pointed from the placed ball, as Westmeath’s goal, to raise the rst green ag of the day. is goal appeared to be the catalyst for Brian Cody’s men to go through the gears, as the visitors accounted for six of the next eight points in Cusack Park. A couple of further free’s from the reliable Alan Murphy put the Cats ahead, before Padraig Walsh got his third score of the afternoon. Cian Kenny, making his championship debit also notched a point before the short whistle, in what was to be his last action of the day as Westmeath kept in touch via Killian Doyle. e half-time score line read Westmeath 0-12, Kilkenny 1-12. e

2nd half blitz see’s Cats home

Padraig Walsh was in fine pointtaking form

Cian Kenny scored a point on his championship debut