North Kerry Senior league Division 2. Round 1 Ballylongford 2-10 Asdee 1-5
O’Rahilly Park Ballylongford was the setting for this latest clash of these great rivals and fellow parishioners, but before proceedings got underway a minute’s silence was observed for the late Billy Enright synonymous with GAA within the County.
In recent meetings Bally have held the upper hand in these derby clashes and continued to do so on this occasion. Certainly, the football season came that bit early for Asdee as they were down 7 first team players out with injuries and other commitments.
However there can be no excuses as on the day Bally were full value for this latest clash; but in fairness Asdee did put in a good shift and the most encouraging part of the day and special mention must go to our 3 newcomers to senior football, Patrick Mulvihill, John Hannon and John Daly who all impressed in the presence of the more seasoned opposing players.
The game itself was never in doubt and Bally bossed the game all through got some fine scores and gifted two goals by a hesitant Asdee rear-guard and Thomas Doherty and Michael Holly were quick to pounce.
On the other hand, the visitors were never able to get the necessary scores when presented. Michael Holly was a constant threat near goals and scorer of 1-3.
Both John Doran at midfield was a colossal and the fast-thinking Eoin Kennedy man caused plenty anxious moments and at the break Bally led 2-5 to 0-5.
On the restart Asdee had their moments but once again were shy when it came to scoring and a poor return of 1-1 with the point coming in the last kick of the game was the sum total of their second half contribution.
Asdee’s goal came in the 5th minute of the second half when Cyril Dineen collected and the inrushing Shay Doran billowed the net from close range. Ciaran O Connor, Sean Hanrahan and Padraig O Neill finished the home team’s total.
Never a classic and as derby clashes go it was a tame affair but one could see the tension in their endeavours to put one over on one another. John Ross was as usual a very capable official but his job was made that much easier as both teams played the game as it should.
Teams and scorers; Asdee; James Kelly, Con Carmody, Martin Collins,1pt, John Daly, Shea Doran, 1gl, Sean Keane, Patrick Mulvihill, John Doran, 1pt, Stephen Lynch, Paul O Carroll, 2pts, Eoin Kennedy 1pt, Jack Hannon, Cyril Dineen, Michael Walsh, Brian Coughlan.
Membership of the Club is now open so anybody who would like to take out membership and can do so by contacting Club Registrar, Kevin Mulvihill, Adults €30, Senior Citizens and Under Age €10. It is important to note that Membership of the Club will close on Friday March 31st and this will be strictly adhered to.
GOLDEN GOAL, Week 1 winners of the Golden Goal; (Kerry v Donegal) was; Mick Rea, Anaghran, Ballylongford, Emma Doherty, C/O Paul O Carroll, Kilcolman and Cork, Tim O Connor, Listowel. which is in conjunction with upcoming Fixtures in both National Football and Hurling League and Championship. (Televised games)
Each winner will receive €40.SALE Tickets are available and will be on sale each week for the duration of the National League and Championship from Club members and at the usual outlets; “Jack Jays” Bar, Club Officers; Patsy Coughlan, Kevin Mulvihill and John Joe O Carroll at €2 each with prize money E40 to be given out each week to the winning number which corresponds with the first goal scored.
A no goal entry is also included. Payment options; 5 weeks €10, 10 weeks €20, and 27 weeks €50. Weekly cut off time for entry is Friday, 8pm.
PRESENTATION A huge crowd were present to honour the North Kerry Rangers Minor football County champions at the Arms Hotel Listowel on Saturday night last at a function organised by the North Kerry Football Board.
Thirty-two years; (1991) is a long time waiting for minor success but it was certainly celebrated in style on this occasion; and hopefully now this star-studded team’s victory will be the platform for future success.
GAA Legend Darragh O Shea was the special guest on the night and as he presented all the panel with their medals, they got a huge ovation as each came forward.
The local St Marys, Asdee had plenty reason also to celebrate as Oisin Healy proved to be the star performer all through the campaign excelling in each game and scoring 1-8 in the final and to cap it all on a magical evening he received the Man of the Match award also. Certainly, one to look to the future.
NORTH KERRY AGM The North Kerry Football Board held their Annual General Meeting on Tuesday January 24th at “Christys The Well Bar” Listowel. Local delegate and club Secretary. Mark O Hanlon was in attendance with the position of Board Development Officer held by Jack Hennessy.
FIXTURES, North Kerry Senior Division 2 Leagues; Round 2 ,2023 Sponsored by McCarthy Insurance Brokers are continuing this weekend with Asdee having a home game against Moyvane game at Jack Walsh Park on Sunday February 5th 2023 at 12 noon. Sunday 12th February 2023, Round 3,at 2pm.
Knocknagoshel v Asdee, Division 2 Round 4 Sunday 19th February 2023; Asdee have a bye.
Division 2 Round 5, Sunday 26th February 2023 at 2pm Tarbert v Asdee, at Jack Walsh Park.
Good local support would be appreciated for all games.