1988

Laune Rangers – 1988

 Laune Rangers won the Mid-Kerry Senior Football Championship for a record sixth time in-a-row and the thirteenth time in total.

Laune Rangers won the Mid-Kerry Senior Football League for the third year-in-a-row and the ninth time in total.

Laune Rangers retained the Mid-Kerry ‘B’ Football Championship, winning it for the sixth time.

Laune Rangers lost the Co. U-21 Football Final to South-Kerry on the score of 2-9 to 3-5.

Laune Rangers won the Co. Minor Football Championship for the second successive year (the 3^rd time in total), the Co. Minor League for the 4^th time and the Mid-Kerry Minor Championship for the 21^st time.

Mid-Kerry won the U-16 Inter-Divisional Football Championship for the second time.

Laune Rangers won the Co-U-14 Football Championship (for the seventh time) by beating Kerins O Rahilly’s in the final on the score of 1-5 to 1-3.

Laune Rangers won the Mid-Kerry U-12 Football Championship for the 13^th time.

Kerry won the Munster Vocational Schools Final – Danny Cahill was at centre halfback.

Kerry, captained by Danny Cahill, won the Munster and All-Ireland Minor Football Championship for the tenth time. Billy O Sullivan played at left full-forward and Tommy Byrne was a substitute.

James O Shea, Timmy Fleming and Shane O Sullivan were on the Kerry team that won the Munster U-21 Football Championship by beating Clare by 0-14 to 2-6, but for the second successive year, the team was beaten in the All-Ireland Final.

Laune Rangers won the Co. Minor Hurling League Div. 2 at the expense of Abbeydorney.

James Coffey was Joint-Treasurer of the Kerry Co. Board for the sixteenth successive year and Jerome Conway was on the Co. Minor Football Selection Committee for the third successive year.

Bart Moriarty was appointed as Secretary of the Kerry Referees’ Committee for the tenth successive year.

Maurice Harmon was Joint-Treasurer of the Mid-Kerry Board for the eighth successive year.

Laune Rangers Club celebrated the Centenary of its foundation in August/September.

Kerry lost the Munster Senior Football Final to Cork – Gerard Murphy played at left full-forward. Joe Shannon was a substitute.

The Trail Blazers (Laune Rangers’ History by Pat O Shea) was launched in August.

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The AGM of the Laune Rangers Club was held on 11^th Jan. 1988 in the Manor Inn, Killorglin. There was an attendance of over 70 members and they got the centenary year off to a bright start. (The Secretary’s Report was given at the end of 1987). James Coffey and Edward Stack, joint-treasurers, once again presented an excellent financial report. However, it was clear that savings would have to be made in the coming year in many areas, as the club would have many extra commitments in celebrating its centenary.

 

Treasurers’ Report for year ended 31/12/’87.

Income                                                            Expenditure           

 

Social                   £1,233.00            Transport (Bord na nOg – £1500)                                                                                                                                 £2,327.00

Sponsorship     200.00                  Beaufort Field 1986                     50.00

Gates – Mid-Kerry     583.00      O Sullivan Park Maintenance        £1,794.05

Scór Grant                                10.00            Dressing-rooms                                                     542.80

Co. Board Draw                        £6,870.00            Registration and Affiliation fees                             645.40

Co. Board Draw Rebate               £4,050.00            Stationary and Postage                                         422.50

Field Rent (BLOE)                   20.00            Meals                                                                 440.65

Dances (Manor Inn)                 357.00            Football gear                                                     351.31

Sale of Hurleys                               58.00            Trophies & medals                                         517.90

Subsidy on Hurleys                 180.00            1986 Social                                                £1,620.00

Church Gate Collection                 572.54            Medical                                                                  103.00

Munster Final Tickets                 717.00            Public Liability Insurance                                         150.00

All-Ireland Hurling Tickets    120.00            Hurleys, sliotars & helmets                             835.10

Grant Mid-Kerry Board                 200.00            Co. Board Draw                                                £7,100.00

Membership                        £1,620.00            1986 CYMS Card Drive                                           72.00

Sports Complex                          6.00            South Kerry Hurling Board                               70.00

Munster Final Tickets                                         768.00

All-Ireland Hurling Tickets                               80.00

Fire Insurance                                                       80.71                                                                        McKeown Graphics                                         335.00

Co. Board Banquet                                         240.00

Amplification                                                       20.00

Administration                                                     130.00

Austin Stacks U-13 Blitz                                           25.00

Mid-Kerry Bord na nOg Referees                               20.00

U-12 photographs                                           10.00

Team-sheet Books                                           10.00

ESB                                                                   52.86

Team refreshments for all teams                             164.14

Co. Bord na nOg Year Book                             177.00

                                                            Kerry Referees’ Draw                                           50.00

Total                        £16,796.54                                                       £19,204.42

Excess of Expenditure  over income                          £2,407.88

 

Accounts as of 31/12/’87

Tour                        Current Account                        31.13

Deposit Account                        793.00

Hurling                        Current A/C                          2.21

Deposit A/C                        27.56

Ladies’ Committee Current A/C                        37.68

Deposit A/C                        757.35

Youth Employment A/C                                    367.92

Credit Union                                             1,596.54

Laune Rangers No. 1 A/C                                    522.78 (debit)

The Chairman, Jerome Conway, in his address, congratulated all the players and their coaches in football and hurling. He criticised the ‘B’ team for not always fielding a team. He urged the senior players to turn out for all their games as, if they did not, it deprived the ‘B’ team of some of its better players and rendered some of them ineligible to play in some circumstances. He thanked the media for the extensive coverage provided to Gaelic games in general and Laune Rangers’ games in particular. As far as the centenary year was concerned, he called for a united effort from everyone to bring the Co. Senior Championship trophy to Killorglin for the first time since 1911. The present crop of minors were then entering a successful and established side and would not be left carrying the can as had happened to the previous Co. Minor Championship winners in 1977. He thanked the sellers of the Centenary Draw. He thanked the hurling coaches, John Purcell, Bill Hearne, Joe Crowe, and all the other mentors, He thanked the officers of the Hurling Club, James Coffey and Bart Moriarty. For 1988, the Chairman advised against any pub-criticism – constructive criticism at meetings was welcome. He again appealed to members to get involved in the running of the club – he asked them to offer their help rather than waiting to be asked.

James Coffey, Chairman of the Centenary Committee, gave a detailed account of the proposed activities for 1988. In brief, those included a centenary Mass, sports meeting, football and hurling tournaments and the publishing of the history of Laune Rangers. The year would conclude with a banquet.

The following officers were elected:

President – Paddy Crowley.

Chairman – Jerome Conway.

Vice-Chairman – Jim Galvin.

Secretary – Tommy Woods.

Ass. Secretary – Brian O Shea (It was reported to the club meeting on Wed. 16^th March that he had resigned from the position due to pressure of work and training).

Treasurers – James Coffey and Edward Stack.

Registrars – Liam Shannon, Brian O Shea and John Purcell.

PRO: Anthony Shannon (It was reported to the Club Meeting on Wed. 16^th March that he had resigned from his position due to pressure of work and training.).

Chairman of Laune Rangers Bord na nOg – Pat Pigott.

Co. Board Delegate – Jerome Conway (Noel O Mahony did not seek re-election).

Co. Board Convention Delegates – Tommy Woods, Jerome Conway, Michael Foley, Liam Shannon, while John Purcell and Pat Lynch would represent the Hurling Club.

Mid-Kerry Board Delegates – Tommy Woods and John Clifford.

Mid-Kerry Board Convention Delegates – Tommy Woods, John Clifford, Liam Shannon and Jerome Conway.

Senior Selectors – Noel O Mahony, Patsy Joy and John Clifford (Frankie Russell did not seek re-election).

‘B’ Team Selection Committee – Maurice Corkery, Michael Foley and John Purcell (Mike Murphy did not seek re-election).

A motion, proposed by the Chairman and seconded by Bart Moriarty, that ‘any officer of the club absent for more than two consecutive meetings would be removed from office and somebody co-opted in his place’ was passed.

Co. Senior Football Championship

19 teams competed for the Senior County Championship, Dr. Croke’s, Clanna Gael, Laune Rangers, West-Kerry, Kerins O Rahilly’s, Kenmare, Austin Stack’s, Shannon Rangers, St. Kieran’s, Feale Rangers, Mid-Kerry, St. Brendan’s, South-Kerry, Gneeveguilla, Beale, Desmonds, John Mitchel’s, Valentia, Killarney (Legion and Spa).

Laune Rangers’ Selection Committee – Noel O Mahony, John Clifford and Patsy Joy.

Rd. 1 on Sat. 18^th June at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 2-10; West-Kerry 2-4.

That was an easier than expected win by Laune Rangers. Conditions were perfect for the good-sized attendance, which anticipated a close encounter. The teams had met in the second round on the previous year and West-Kerry had won through in a cliff-hanger. The Killorglin boys were looking for revenge. West Kerry’s lineout had undergone dramatic changes since the previous year – only eight of that team lined out.

West-Kerry knew, coming to Killorglin that they would have to be at their best to win. They got the worst possible start, when the game was barely fifty seconds old. Timmy Fleming, from a 20m free out on the right, for a foul on John Evans, floated the ball into the West-Kerry goal-mouth, where Pierce Prendiville was in like a bullet, to finish the ball to the net past a startled John O Connor. That was a dream start for the Rangers. It helped to settle the team and, for the next ten minutes, they went in search of other scores. Gerard Murphy was roving out around midfield, bringing Paudie O Shea with him. Joe Shannon was lording the midfield area and, with halfbacks Pat O Brien, Paudie Sheahan and Shane O Sullivan moving forward, points from Joe Shannon and Shane O Sullivan, both from play, had the Laune men 1-2 to 0-0 in front after twelve minutes. West-Kerry began to settle down more at that stage but in their first real attack Denis Higgins blazed wide. From the kick-out, Tommy Doyle won possession, played the ball to Sean Geaney, who in turn placed the unmarked Denis Higgins, running in at the edge of the small square. The Lispole man side-stepped Rangers’ goalkeeper, Peter Lyons, and crashed the ball to the empty net to leave the score at 1-2 to 1-0.

Rangers took up the running once more. Their combination was a delight to watch, playing the ball wide into the open spaces, they found each other with precision passing, often involving six players. Joe Shannon scored a left-legged point. Timmy Fleming scored another after a set-piece by Gerard Murphy and Paul Griffin, leaving the score 1-4 to 1-0 entering the 20^th minute. Joe Shannon popped up under his own posts to pull down a Tommy Doyle free kick. West-Kerry points by Tom Sayers and another from Tommy Doyle, after a poor kick-out by Peter Lyons, left only two points between the teams coming up to the halftime whistle. Then Rangers received a psychological boost, with a goal at the right time. With the West-Kerry fullback line out too far, Paul Griffin sent a probing kick over their heads from midfield. Timmy Fleming raced clear, unmarked to beat the advancing goalkeeper in a race to the ball and a deft kick by the young Fleming had the goalkeeper picking the ball out of the net. West-Kerry had a great opportunity of goaling from the kick-out. Peter Lyons’ goals lived dangerously when Tom Sayers’ rasping shot went across the face of the goals and wide. The referee blew the halftime whistle with the scores at 2-4 to 1-2 in favour of the home team.

West-Kerry, in a rearranged shift-about, brought Tommy Doyle and Tom Ashe to midfield. Gabriel Casey went to centre halfback, Alister Fitzgerald being replaced before the interval by Murt Moriarty, who went into the attack. Tom Flaherty missed from a close-in free right in front of the posts in the opening minute. A foul on Pat O Brien after clearing the ball, brought forward by the referee for dissent, gave Timmy Fleming the honour of opening the second half scoring, pointing from the 20m line. Joe Shannon was the real thorn throughout for West-Kerry. He started a move, which gave John Evans a goaling chance but John O Connor denied the full-forward with a point blank save. Patie Casey gathered the rebound to kick a point to leave the score at 2-6 to 1-2 in favour of Laune Rangers. West-Kerry rallied with their second goal, which was one of the soft variety. Ten minutes had gone when Tom Flaherty’s shot from out on the left deceived backs and forwards, the ball flying into the far right-hand corner past Peter Lyons. Claims for a square ball were overruled by the referee. Only four points then separated the sides. Rangers, sensing the danger, got moving again. Gerard Murphy had two wides before Timmy Fleming kicked a point and Joe Shannon another beauty. That left six points between the teams as the game entered the final quarter. Paudie O Shea scored a point and Timmy Fleming, shaking off three tackles, split the uprights.

West-Kerry brought Tom Sayers to midfield but, by that stage, they were on their way out of the Championship. The clock was ticking over. Tom Flaherty, from a free, reduced the lead to five points with as many minutes remaining. There was never any danger of a dramatic finish. West-Kerry had not the forwards to pull it out of the fire. Instead it was the cool Rangers’ defence, which kept matters under control. In a fast breakaway, Timmy Fleming stamped his authority on a brilliant display, in another of those cross-field set-pieces by Gerard Murphy and Paul Griffin, he pointed with ease. The final whistle followed.

That was a great result for Rangers. At no stage did they feel troubled. The team, as a whole, played exceptionally well. On the night, they were the sharper outfit, with many more ideas. Admittedly, the opposition was not the force of other years. The one fault with the Rangers was that they conceded goals in each half to let the opposition back into the game. With the forward line so clinical, one of the best in the Championship scoring 2-9 from play, they came back on each occasion with the confidence that makes champions. James Sheehan and Anthony Shannon were brilliant in the two corner-back positions. Brian O Shea, might not have looked a towering fullback, but he was a solid performer. The halfback line of Pat O Brien, Paudie Sheahan and Shane O Sullivan was magnificent. It was to the credit of all six defenders that West-Kerry scored only two points in each half. The team revolved around Joe Shannon. On his game, there was no sweeter footballer, poetry in motion. That game was one of those. His partner, Tom Johnston, was a tireless worker. Timmy Fleming demonstrated that he had a great future ahead of him. Paul Griffin, Pierce Prendiville, Patie Casey, John Evans and Gerard Murphy were all resplendent figures in the attack. The West-Kerry defence could never come to terms with the slick-moving Rangers’ forwards.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, James Sheehan, Brian O Shea, Anthony Shannon, Pat O Brien, Paudie Sheahan, Shane O Sullivan (0-1), Tom Johnston, Joe Shannon (0-3), Paul Griffin, Pierce Prendiville (1-1), Timmy Fleming (1-5), Patie Casey (0-1), John Evans, Gerard Murphy. Subs: Pat McKenna for T. Johnston, James O Shea, Mark O Connor, Michael Moriarty, Pat Pigott, Timmy Corkery. Danny Cahill, Tommy Byrne and Billy O Sullivan were in Galway with the Kerry Minor team.

West-Kerry: John O Connor (Dingle), Paudie O Shea (Gaeltacht) 0-1, Pat Flahive (Annascaul), Tomás Hannifin (Lispole), Pat Galvin (Dingle), Tommy Doyle (Annascaul) 0-1, Gearóid Casey (Lispole), Gabriel Casey (Lispole), Alister Fitzgerald (Gaeltacht), Tom Flaherty (Gaeltacht) 1-1, 1 free, Tom Ashe (Annascaul), James Hannifin (Lispole), Sean Geaney (Dingle), Denis Higgins (Lispole) 1-0, Tom Sayers (Annascaul) 0-1. Sub: Murt Moriarty (Dingle) for A. Fitzgerald.

Ref: Denis Reidy (Ballymac) – excellent.

 

Rd. 2 on Fri. 8^th July at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 0-7; Mid-Kerry 0-2.

The large attendance at that Co. Senior Championship second round game got little to shout about, as Laune Rangers made light of the Mid-Kerry challenge to qualify for the quarter-finals. That local derby was expected to produce an abundance of thrills and good football, but so poor were Mid-Kerry that Laune Rangers must have been wondering if it was a practice game and not the championship tie, in which they were participating. Accordingly, Laune Rangers’ performance was well below expectations. The Killorglin boys did, however, produce some very good passages of open football and put together movements that bewildered the Mid-Kerry defence. At least four of those movements should have produced goals but, as a sea of blue shirts descended on an outmanoeuvred defence, the final pass or kick just failed to find the right spot.

It was hard to understand why the winners kept looking for goals when points were there for the taking. However, in the second half, the spectators saw them produce a spectacular movement, in which no less than five players were involved. The final pass fell to Gerard Murphy and his great shot came back off the underside of the crossbar. It was only as Paul Griffin gathered the rebound that the Mid-Kerry defence was able to recover and Griffin’s attempt for goal was blocked. Gerard Murphy then regained possession, but he shot wide. Shortly after that, another fine Rangers’ move ended with Paul Griffin blazing wide from 13m, with John Evans waiting unmarked just outside the small ‘box’. Had one of those movements ended in a goal, the game would have ended as a contest midway through the second half. It was an amazing game in that Mid-Kerry failed to score in the first half and Laune Rangers failed to raise a flag in the second. Willie Maher missed two very scoreable frees in the first half and Timmy Fleming did likewise in the second half. However, despite Laune Rangers’ lapse in the scoring, they were still playing fine outfield football and when danger did threaten, man-of-the-match James Sheehan, at right fullback, was always on hand to cover any loopholes. He had gone from strength to strength that season as a corner-back and that game must have been one of his finest hours in the blue jersey.

Laune Rangers’ supporters were worried about the loss of Shane O Sullivan to the defence, but his replacement, cousin Mark O Connor, turned in a faultless display on a number of opponents, which earned him rounds of applause. Then, of course, Laune Rangers had another hero in Paudie Sheahan, who must surely have been one of the top centre halfbacks in club football. If Mid-Kerry were expecting Donie Hartnett, at full-forward, and Willie Maher, at right full-forward, to tear the Rangers’ last line of defence to shreds, they got a rude awakening as Brian O Shea and Anthony Shannon were so much on top that Mid-Kerry were forced to switch their men outfield.

Laune Rangers were always on top at midfield where Joe Shannon and Tom Johnston lorded it over a succession of opponents. Pierce Prendiville, on the forty, was a wonderful link-man and the brains behind many great movements. His superb fitness allowed him to move back into his own defence when needed.

Rangers played great football in the first half, after which they led by 0-7 to 0-0. Incredibly, they failed to score in the second half, though they missed some good chances of goals, particularly when Gerard Murphy’s shot hit the crossbar and when Paul Griffin failed to see the unmarked John Evans at the edge of the small parallelogram. The fullback line played well and Mark O Connor was outstanding in the halfback line. Tom Johnston was the man-of-the-match.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, James Sheehan, Brian O Shea, Anthony Shannon, Pat O Brien, Paudie Sheahan, Mark O Connor, Tom Johnston, Joe Shannon, Paul Griffin, Pierce Prendiville, Timmy Fleming, Patie Casey, John Evans, Gerard Murphy. Subs: Danny Cahill for P. Griffin, Pat McKenna for J. Evans, Billy O Sullivan for P. Casey, Michael Moriarty, Tommy Byrne, Michael O Reilly, Timmy Corkery, Pat Pigott, James O Shea.

Mid-Kerry: Jim O Connor (Milltown/Castlemaine), Liam Spring (do.), Mike Colgan (do.), Patie Griffin (Glenbeigh), Sean Burke (Milltown/Castlemaine), Gerard Teahan (do.), Pat O Grady (Glenbeigh), Linus Burke (Milltown/Castlemaine), Michael Moriarty (Beaufort), Tommy Evans (Keel), Bertie Griffin (Milltown/Castlemaine), Francis Courtney (Beaufort), Willie Maher (Milltown/Castlemaine), Donie Hartnett (Beaufort), Sean Counihan (Milltown/Castlemaine). Subs: Cormac O Shea (Beaufort) for F. Courtney, Sean Barton (Glenbeigh) B. Griffin, Danny Evans (Keel) for S. Counihan.

Ref: Denis Reidy (Ballymacelligott) – very good.

 

Quarter-final on Sun. 24^th July at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 1-4; Desmonds 1-10.

Greater teamwork and determination allied to some fine individual displays were decisive factors for Desmonds as they convincingly overcame Laune Rangers. The home team had to field without Gerard Murphy and Shane O Sullivan and their absence was to prove crucial to the outcome, with Gerard Murphy’s loss to the attack being especially vital.

Desmonds won the toss and elected to play with the strong breeze. Neither team managed to dominate the opening passages of play with both sides overindulging in short passing. Donal Murphy had the first scoring chance after just four minutes but his shot was badly wide. However, Desmonds had their first score on the board just one minute later when Willie Dom O Connor struck a free from the 45m line after a foul on Dermot Hannifin. John Lordan kicked wide for Desmonds, while Christy Kearney increased their advantage to two points with a free after eight minutes. At the other end, John Evans had a fine opening score, having been put through by Paul Griffin.

Play livened up considerably as the game entered the second quarter, with Charlie Nelligan effecting a brilliant save from Paul Griffin. It was at that point that Desmonds struck a decisive victory blow when goal-getter supreme, John Lordan, availed of some slack defensive marking to fire in a low drive from close range for Desmonds’ only goal of the game. Rangers pulled back a point from the boot of Timmy Fleming from a close-in free, when Nelligan was pulled for over-carrying. A foul on John Lordan gave Christy Kearney the chance to increase Desmonds’ advantage once again and his well-struck free went over the bar.

With Desmonds dominating midfield, they launched a series of raids on the Rangers’ goal but their finish failed to match their approach work, with successive wides coming twice from Willie Dom O Connor and Dermot Hannifin. Goalkeeper Nelligan, who had a splendid game, was off his line once again to foil Griffin for the second time during the game. Martin Downey had a goaling chance at the other end, but his ground shot was off target as he appeared to have been fouled in the act of shooting. The large home following was on its feet immediately afterwards when Patie Casey brilliantly volleyed home Joe Shannon’s low cross to put Laune Rangers back in the game.

Timmy Fleming, then at midfield, was more involved, but it was Desmonds’ captain, Willie O Connor, who put the next score on the board after a brilliant jinking run. Lordan increased their advantage with two minutes left in the first half and was narrowly wide with another effort immediately afterwards. Castleisland’s John Lyons was booked as the first half came to a close but Patie Casey kicked wide to leave Desmonds three points to the good at the break.

Laune Rangers resumed with Mark O Connor switching wings to mark the elusive Lordan. Tom Johnston was on the forty, with Pierce Prendiville in the left corner. Tom Johnston and Willie O Connor both had wides before Timmy Fleming had the first score of the second from a free for Rangers. Dermot Hannifin’s pin-point pass put Willie O Connor in the clear and he confidently restored Desmonds’ three points cushion. Christy Kearney, from a free after eight minutes, increased Castleisland’s advantage further as they firmly took control of the proceedings. James Sheehan was booked for a foul on Donal Murphy and then fouled John Lyons from the resultant free to give Christy Kearney the simplest of chances to land Desmonds’ eighth point. John Lordan stormed back into the game and was involved in a number of attacks before setting up Christy Kearney to give his side a clear six points lead. Rangers introduced Michael Moriarty for the injured Pierce Prendiville and were rewarded with a point by Paul Griffin after sixteen minutes. The same player followed immediately with a wide, both opportunities having been set up by full-forward, John Evans. Good fielding by Donie Buckley kept Desmonds in control as Rangers, urged on by the large crowd, tried desperately to break their grip. Young Billy O Sullivan came into the fray for Tom Johnston in an effort to stem the tide. However, Desmonds never looked like surrendering their dominance due to the strong play of their midfielders, who covered every inch of the pitch in support of their colleagues.

A minor flare-up landed Christy Kearney and Anthony Shannon in the referee’s notebook with just five minutes left and it was at that point that Willie Dom O Connor quite fittingly had the final score of the game – a point this time with his right foot. His marker, Anthony Shannon, was replaced by James O Shea but Rangers’ cause was a lost one at that stage. However, drama was still to follow, as Rangers were awarded a penalty for a foul on John Evans. Joe Shannon’s well struck shot was parried brilliantly by Charlie Nelligan to cap a fine individual performance.

Rangers were bitterly disappointed, having missed out on championship glory in their centenary year. Paudie Sheahan, Mark O Connor and Brian O Shea all worked hard in what was at times an overworked rearguard. Joe Shannon emerged as their best player and was at all times full of running. However, his style was obviously suited to an attacking position, as he was never able to break the aerial dominance of Hannifin and Buckley. Timmy Fleming improved matters when moved to midfield, having failed to make an impact at wing forward. Up front, Paul Griffin was a lively winger with Patie Casey, inside him, grabbing his goal in spectacular style. John Evans was enthusiastic all through, having the ability to win a great deal of possession. Overall it was a contest, which was enjoyable and entertaining.

From a Rangers point of view, that was easily the worst performance of the year. The only players to play well were Brian O Shea, Paudie Sheahan and John Evans, and Patie Casey to a lesser degree. Pierce Prendiville had a hamstring problem and had to be replaced. Unfortunately, Paudie Sheahan had his jaw broken in an accidental clash with Pat O Brien. Jerome Conway took him to hospital and Paudie never stopped talking on the way about how amazed he was that he had been injured because he had never before been injured.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, James Sheehan, Brian O Shea, Anthony Shannon, Pat O Brien, Paudie Sheahan, Mark O Connor, Tom Johnston, Joe Shannon, Paul Griffin (0-1), Pierce Prendiville, Timmy Fleming (0-2, frees), Patie Casey (1-0), John Evans (0-1), Pat McKenna. Subs: Billy O Sullivan for P. Prendiville (inj.), Michael Moriarty for T. Johnston, James O Shea for A. Shannon, Danny Cahill, Gene Evans, Pat Pigott, Michael O Reilly, Timmy Corkery, Tommy Byrne. Gerard Murphy and Shane O Sullivan were injured and unable to play.

Desmonds: Charlie Nelligan, Domo Kirwan, Billy Lyons, Wilsie King, Eugene Leonard, Dan Lucey, Tommy Horan, Dermot Hannifin, Donie Buckley, Martin Downey, John Lyons, John Lordan (1-1), Willie Dom O Connor (0-4, 1 free), Christy Kearney (0-5, 4 frees), Donal Murphy.

Ref: Maurice O Sullivan (Ballyheigue) – excellent, always in control, very fair and allowed the play to run.

 

St. Kieran’s beat Dr. Croke’s in the final on the score of 0-10 to 0-3 on Sun. 2^nd Oct.

 

Co. Club Championship

 

Quarter-final on Sat. 8^th Oct. at Beaufort: Laune Rangers 1-12; Austin Stack’s 1-8.

Squandermania was the order of the day as Laune Rangers, minus Gerard Murphy, overcame Austin Stacks, after extra time, to qualify for the semi-final of the Club Championship. A difficult cross-wind made playing conditions hazardous and, even though Rangers enjoyed a distinct territorial advantage throughout the one and a half hours of play, a total of 24 wides from them meant that the result hung in the balance until the closing five minutes of extra time.

Stacks had only 16 players available and had to field four of their minor team. The first quarter was insignificant, with wild kicking and misdirected passes being a noteable feature. Timmy Fleming, from a free, had the first score after twelve minutes. However, a succession of wides meant that Stacks remained in contention and a good spell by them, culminating in points by John L. McElligott and Brian O Sullivan (both frees) had them in front with the first half drawing to a close. With just three minutes remaining in the half, the score of the game came from Paul Griffin, and what a classic it was! He rifled a superb shot from all of 20m to the roof of the Stacks’ net. That was followed by a Timmy Fleming point from a free and it gave the ‘Blues from the Laune’ a three points lead at the interval.

The second half was a straight shoot-out between Ger Power and Joe Shannon at opposite ends of the pitch. Joe Shannon, with three excellent points from play gave Rangers a commanding six points lead and even though Timmy Fleming (free) and Darren Ahern and John L. McElligott (free) exchanged points, Laune Rangers looked in control and appeared to be coasting to victory as the game turned into the final quarter. But enter the evergreen Power with a goal and three points in quick succession, all from play, which levelled the scores at the end of normal time.

Power continued to exert a huge influence for Stacks at the beginning of extra time and, in fact, put them ahead with a point. However, that proved to be Stacks’ last score. Victory might have been hard earned by Rangers but it was achieved by virtue of their greater strength and teamwork and it was inspired by the brilliance of midfielder Tom Johnston and the leadership and accuracy of Joe Shannon up front. In addition, James Sheehan, Anthony Shannon, Pat O Brien, Shane O Sullivan, Mark O Connor, Pierce Prendiville, Timmy Fleming, Paul Griffin and substitutes, Timmy Corkery and Danny Cahill, were outstanding and the important members of a committed and organised Laune Rangers team. The playing surface and facilities at Beaufort compared favourably with the grounds anywhere in the county and were a credit to the local club.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Anthony Shannon, Paudie Sheahan, Mark O Connor, Pat O Brien, James Sheehan, Shane O Sullivan, Tom Johnston, Pierce Prendiville, Joe Shannon (0-4), Michael Moriarty, Timmy Fleming (0-4), Paul Griffin (1-1), Pat McKenna, Michael O Reilly. Subs: Timmy Corkery (0-2) for M. Moriarty, Danny Cahill (0-1) for P. McKenna, Billy O Sullivan for M. O Reilly, Pat McKenna for B. O Sullivan..

Austin Stacks: John O Riordan, Christy Flaherty, Mike Crowley, Eddie Dowling, John Galvin, Eamonn O Brien, Kieran Browne, Brian O Sullivan (0-1), John Shanahan, John Harrington, John Walsh, John L. McElligott (0-2), Darren Ahern (0-1), Ger Power (1-4), Michael Lynch. Sub: Billy O Lehane for J. Shanahan.

Ref: Dan O Sullivan (Currow) – in his efforts to let play flow, he ignored obvious fouls on a number of occasions.

 

Semi-final on Sat. 15^th Oct. at Killarney: Desmonds 4-8; Laune Rangers 2-7.

Dermot Hannifin had a point for Desmonds. Timmy Fleming gave to Paul Griffin for a point and he himself had a point from a free in the 12^th minute. Then Christy Kearney kicked a point from a free, for a foul on John Lordan, to level the scores. Dermot Hannifin, starting well at midfield for Desmonds, had a 40m point in the 14^th minute. Then, he received from Christy Kearney for another point – Desmonds 0-4; Laune Rangers 0-2. From then to the 24^th minute, play drifted up and down the field with the backs on top, until a foul on Danny Cahill led a point from a free by Timmy Fleming. John Lordan was fouled while going through and Christy Kearney pointed the free to leave Desmonds leading by 0-5 to 0-3 at halftime.

Timmy Fleming had a great Laune Rangers point after the resumption. Then, there followed in the next eight minutes a plethora of goals. Firstly, Donal Murphy sent John O Connor through for a goal for Desmonds, followed by a point from 35m by Christy Kearney. Then, after Charlie Nelligan had saved a penalty, the ball was forced to the net by Danny Cahill, who had to retire, having got injured in the bustle. Pat McKenna came on a substitute for Laune Rangers.

More trouble for Laune Rangers then, when a tentative free from Martin Downey was mishandled by Peter Lyons, in the Rangers’ goals, resulting in a soft goal for Desmonds, to leave the score 2-6 to 1-4 in their favour. Tommy Byrne came on for John Evans. Pat O Brien, fielding brilliantly, saved a point for Laune Rangers and when he cleared, Pat McKenna put Timmy Corkery in for a score. Desmonds were dominating the exchanges at that stage but Laune Rangers broke away for a point by Paul Griffin in the 48^th minute. Dermot Hannifin put Domo Lyne on his way for a point to leave the score at 2-7 to 1-6 in favour of the Castleisland boys. Play fluctuated to and fro for the next few minutes and then disaster struck for the Launesiders. John O Connor sent in a lob and the Rangers’ goalie, Peter Lyons, dropped the ball into his own net. Timmy Fleming came away immediately for a point. However, the game was wrapped up when John Lordan transferred to John O Connor to score his third goal. Laune Rangers kept trying and Timmy Fleming put Paul Griffin through for a well-taken goal. Donie Buckley finished the scoring with a point.

Rangers severely felt the loss of Gerard Murphy and James Sheehan, both of whom were in the USA for the weekend.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Anthony Shannon, Paudie Sheahan, Mark O Connor, Pat O Brien, Michael O Reilly, Shane O Sullivan, Tom Johnston, Pierce Prendiville, Timmy Corkery (0-1), Joe Shannon, Timmy Fleming (0-4), Paul Griffin (1-2), John Evans (0-1), Danny Cahill (1-0). Subs: Pat McKenna for D. Cahill (inj.), Tommy Byrne for J. Evans.

Desmonds: Charlie Nelligan, Kevin McMahon, Tommy Horan, John Lyons, Eugene Leonard, Dan Lucey, Conor Geaney, Domo Lyne (0-2), Dermot Hannifin (0-2), Martin Downey (1-0), Donie Buckley (0-1),  John O Connor (3-0), John Lordon, Christy Kearney (0-3), Donal Murphy.

Ref: Michael O Sullivan (Ballymacelligott).

 

Desmonds went on to win the Club Championship by defeating Valentia in the final at Killarney on Sat. 22^nd Oct. by 1-7 to 0-8.

 

Co. Senior League Division 1

 

Rd. 1 on Sun. 6^th March at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 0-14; Annascaul 0-10.

The Kerryman led with the headline ‘Rangers Give Value for Money. The fine attendance at the J.P. O Sullivan Park, Killorglin got good value for money as Laune Rangers, the holders, and newly promoted Annascaul provided a fast, open and exciting game. Laune Rangers were the better team but petty fouling in a defence that was often shaky kept Annascaul in the game right up to the end. Joe Shannon and Tom Johnston formed an unbeatable midfield partnership and it was there that the foundation for a fine win was laid. The pair covered a tremendous amount of ground and their great fielding and kicking drew well deserved applause from the crowd. Some excellent passing movements often left the losers’ defence flatfooted but the Rangers’ forwards were in wasteful mood with ten wides in the first half and eight in the second period. However Paul Griffin, Gerard Murphy, Pat McKenna, Tom Johnston and Joe Shannon kicked some glorious points. The Rangers’ defence, often the saviour of the side in the past, was, to say the least, terrible at times and lack of fitness was evident. However, Pat O Brien, at right halfback, had an excellent hour, while Paudie Sheahan once again rose to the occasion by keeping Tommy Doyle on a tight rein and the Kerry star had to be content with one point from play and this was a marvellous effort from well over 70m. Doyle, however, was in great form with his place kicking, punishing the Rangers on five occasions. It was just as well that Paudie Sheahan and Pat O Brien were in such good form, as the others in defence, with the exception of Danny Cahill, had to play second fiddle.

The Annascaul attack was poor and depended too much on Tommy Doyle. Tom Sayers threatened a lot but achieved little while Tom McCarthy was most dangerous. The Annascaul defence was under severe pressure and only for some good covering by Vincent Knightley, Brian Farrell and Pat Flahive, the score would have been much higher. Laune Rangers, who led 0-7 to 0-5 at the interval, were lucky not to have a penalty awarded against them when Sayers was grounded in the opening quarter.’

With Bertie O Riordan replacing an inured Anthony Shannon, Rangers picked up where they left off on the resumption and knocked over three points through Joe Shannon, James Sheehan and Pat McKenna in impressive style. Tom McCarthy pulled one back for Annascaul but Paul Griffin cancelled that out with a well-taken point almost immediately. Tommy Doyle had two further points from frees before the impressive Paul Griffin added to his tally to copperfasten Laune Rangers’ win.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Shane O Sullivan, Brian O Shea, Anthony Shannon, Pat O Brien, Paudie Sheahan, Danny Cahill, Tom Johnston (0-2), Joe Shannon (0-2), Paul Griffin (0-3), Pierce Prendiville, Timmy Fleming (0-2), Pat McKenna (0-2), James Sheehan (0-1), Gerard Murphy (0-2). Subs: Bertie O Riordan for A. Shannon (inj.), John Evans, John Griffin, Mark O Connor, Pat Pigott.

Annascaul: Martin Knightley, Bingo Lenihan, Pat Flahive, Jack Herlihy, Brian Farrell, Vincent Knightley, Dan Sheehy, Tom Ashe, Pat McKenna, Bingo Driscoll, Tommy Doyle (0-6), David Farrell (0-1), Tony Kennedy, Tom Sayers (0-1), Tom McCarthy (0-2). Subs: John Brosnan for T. Kennedy, Jim Pierce for B. Driscoll.

Ref: Pa Mannix (Listry).

 

Rd. 2 on Sun. 27^th March at Ballybunion: Beale 2-2; Laune Rangers 0-11.

The heading in the Kerryman read, ‘Laune Rangers stay on target for title. Reigning county league champions, Laune Rangers, kept themselves right on target for another title victory by scoring a victory over Beale in Ballybunion. It was a Division 1 game remarkable for the fact that the Laune Rangers defence conceded only one free inside their own 50 yards line in the entire game and that free came very late in the game when Rangers were leading by three points. Ogie Moran took it and lobbed it into the goal-mouth, in the hope of an equalising goal, but Rangers cleared to safety. Once again the Killorglin side proved themselves to be a side of talent and determination. They fought back to cancel out a Beale goal by Liam Guerin and did the same when Beale’s John Costello hammered a penalty to the net 20 minutes from the end. That penalty goal proved to be Beale’s last score. Rangers picked off their points well and thoroughly deserved their victory. They were sell-served all over the field but the halfback line of Pat O Brien, Paudie Sheahan and Shane O Sullivan was particularly effective. Tom Johnston and Joe Shannon accomplished valuable work at midfield and James Sheehan, Pierce Prendiville, Paul Griffin and Gerard Murphy were dangerous in attack. Owen Bomber Liston again played in goal for Beale and turned in a splendid performance. He brought off some fine saves and capped his display by foiling Gerard Murphy in quite brilliant style. In the last five minutes, he moved out to midfield.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Bertie O Riordan, Brian O Shea, Anthony Shannon, Pat O Brien, Paudie Sheahan, Shane O Sullivan, Tom Johnston, Joe Shannon, Paul Griffin (0-2), Pierce Prendiville (0-2), Timmy Fleming (0-4), Pat McKenna, James Sheehan (0-2), Gerard Murphy (0-1). Subs: John Evans for P. McKenna, Danny Cahill for T. Johnston, Mark O Connor for J. Sheehan.

Beale: Owen Liston, Kevin Johnston, Liam Browne, Ted Griffin, Billy O Connor, Sean Liston, Bill Finnucane, Stevy Linnane, Dino Dowling, Gerard Costello, Kevin Boyle, Ogie Moran, J.J. O Connor, John Costello, Liam Guerin.

Ref: Maurice O Sullivan (Ballyheigue).

 

Rd. 3 on Sun. 3^rd April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 1-8; Legion 0-6.

This top-of-the-table clash was contested with championship fervour. The greater experience and resources of the home team eventually saw them through. Legion, playing with the aid of a strong breeze in the first half, were quickly into their stride and Donal Culloty chalked up two points from frees. Rangers replied with a pointed free from Timmy Fleming. At that early stage, Legion looked to be very enterprising and forwards Conor McNiece, Dermot Reen and Diarmuid O Donoghue were combining well. O Donoghue pointed and Reen stretched their lead.

Rangers, at that stage, were playing incohesively but Timmy Fleming kept them in contention with a pointed free. A particularly good point by Paul Griffin, the best forward on view, closed the gap between the sides. A point by Donal Culloty and one from Paul Griffin left the halftime score at 0-6 to 0-4 in favour of Legion.

Incredibly, Legion failed to score in the second half. Equally unbelievable was the fact that Legion were ahead by a point with ten minutes to go – this despite the fact that the home side was completely in control at midfield. Very poor shooting by the Rangers’ forwards delayed the inevitable. However, once Paul Griffin got the only goal of the game, the issue was beyond doubt. Diarmuid O Donoghue did get through for the visitors but his parting shot went wide. Points by Gerard Murphy, Paul Griffin and James Sheehan sealed the victory for the champions.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Bertie O Riordan Brian O Shea, Anthony Shannon, Pat O Brien, Paudie Sheahan, Shane O Sullivan, Tom Johnston, Joe Shannon (0-1), Paul Griffin (1-2), Pierce Prendiville, Timmy Fleming (0-3), Pat McKenna, James Sheehan (0-1), Gerard Murphy (0-1). Subs: Danny Cahill for T. Johnston, Mark O Connor, Michael O Reilly, Tommy Byrne, Gene Evans.

Legion: Peter O Leary, Donal O Donoghue, Padraig Brosnan, Mike Brosnan, Pat Adams, Pat Sheehan, Pat O Sullivan, Denis O Mahony, Tomás Griffin, Conor McNiece, Donal Culloty, John Carroll, Diarmuid O Donoghue, Dermot Reen, Tomás Lyne. Subs: Paudie Sheahan and David O Donoghue.

Ref: Michael O Sullivan (Ballymacelligott).

 

Rd. 4 on Sat. 16^th April at Spa: Spa 2-7; Laune Rangers 0-10.

Kerry’s Eye described the game thus: ‘Spa provided what must be the upset of round four when they put an end to Laune Rangers’ unbeaten run. They played good, open football with Michael McAuliffe and Mossie Cronin doing a lot of work up front. Laune Rangers quickly counter-attacked and U-21 county player, Timmy Fleming, had them in the lead for the first time when he converted a 35m free. Indeed the free-taking of the county player could not be faulted during the game. Spa rallied and two points, one from a free, by Michael McAuliffe, had the home side in the lead before the end of the seventh minute. Spa looked to be squandering many chances in these opening minutes. The free-taking of Michael McAuliffe was not up to the same standard as in other Co. League games. Laune Rangers were dominating the exchanges in the centre of the field where Timmy Fleming and Tom Johnston were combining well. Laune Rangers’ best area of play was in the half-forward line where Paul Griffin, Pierce Prendiville and Danny Cahill were doing well. Gerard Murphy had Rangers back on level terms in the 12^th minute when he pointed and a further point by Timmy Fleming had the visitors in front before the game entered the second quarter. This game was rapidly developing into a thriller. Spa can thank Mossie Cronin and Anthony McAuliffe for keeping them in the contest. The latter got the sides back on level terms when he pointed in the 19^th minute. Laune Rangers were gaining most of the possession. Dominating the breaking ball, they were constantly on the attack. However, against a very tight Spa defence, the forwards were to have no joy.

Michael McAuliffe got his shooting boots on when he converted a 20m free in the 23^rd minute to give the lead back to the home side. He recovered from his less than impressive start to point from play to leave two points separating the sides. With only two minutes left in the first half, Spa struck for an Anthony McAuliffe goal, after Rangers failed to clear a Pat Cronin centre. Things were looking bad for last year’s Co. League Champions but Timmy Fleming scored a 14m free to leave the halftime score 1-5 to 0-4 in favour of Spa.

Rangers were in all sorts of trouble as they started the second half. They quickly went into the attack but they failed to register any scores. Spa lifted the siege and, with the bit firmly between the teeth, they raided down the field. Sean Cronin converted a 45 to increase the gap to five points. Rangers’ man-of-the-match, Timmy Fleming, managed to keep his side in contention when he converted a 35m free to leave the score-line reading 1-6 to 0-5 after eight minutes of the second half. Rangers found themselves in further trouble in the ninth minute when Pat Cronin was hauled down in the square. Tommy Sugrue immediately awarded a penalty, which Michael McAuliffe, with apparent ease, blasted to the back of the net. Rangers staged a comeback but Spa, with Mossie Cronin and Michael McAuliffe back helping the defence, held on grimly. The Mid-Kerry men piled on the pressure and Michael O Reilly pointed. Further points by Danny Cahill and Timmy Fleming (2) reduced the gap to two points and the large crowd looked to be for a thrilling finish. With only a minute left on the clock, Michael McAuliffe pointed a 30m free. Rangers managed to set up a number of attacks but a determined Spa side justly took the points.’

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Bertie O Riordan, Brian O Shea, Anthony Shannon, Pat O Brien, Paudie Sheahan, Shane O Sullivan, Tom Johnston, Timmy Fleming (0-7), Paul Griffin, Pierce Prendiville, Danny Cahill (0-1), Pat McKenna, James Sheehan, Gerard Murphy (0-1). Subs: Billy O Sullivan for G. Murphy (inj.), Michael O Reilly (0-1) for A. Shannon, Tommy Byrne for P. McKenna, Timothy Corkery, Pat Pigott. Joe Shannon was unable to play as he was in Longford for AIB trials for the tour to Australia and he was sorely missed.

Spa: Ger O Leary, Sean Moynihan, Denis Cremin, Michael Cahill, Conor Kavanagh, Sean Cronin, Michael O Leary, Dermot Cronin, Dan Kennedy, Maurice Cronin, Michael McAuliffe, Sean Kelliher, Anthony McAuliffe, Pat Cronin, Mossie Cronin. Sub: Padraig Moynihan for S. Kelliher.

Ref: Tommy Sugrue (St. Patrick’s, Blennerville).

 

Rd. 5 on Sat. 14^th May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 2-8; Desmonds 0-11.

This was a very entertaining game in sunny Killorglin before a big crowd, with Desmonds dominating the first half and Rangers taking over for twenty minutes of the second half. Desmonds opened smartly and went into a five points lead with scores from Christy Kearney, Donal Murphy (2) and Donie Buckley (2). Rangers did not have their first wide until the 16^th minute and their first score in the 20^th minute when Paul Griffin pointed. Desmonds were moving well and, with Dermot Hannifin and Tommy Horan having the upper-hand at midfield, Willie Dom O Connor added two further points. Joe Shannon converted a 45 and in the last minute Paul Griffin scored his second point to leave the halftime score at 0-7 to 0-3 in favour of Desmonds.

Rangers got down to business early in the second half. Gerard Murphy moved out around midfield and helped to break the ball from Hannifin. He scored a point in the 32^nd minute and Tom Johnston scored a goal a minute later to leave the scores level. Desmonds eased in front again with a Martin Downey point. That lead, however, was short lived as Gerard Murphy goaled in the 41^st minute to give Rangers the lead for the first time. Further points from Joe Shannon (2) and Gerard Murphy left five points between the sides with ten minutes left. Desmonds replied with two points from Tommy Horan and one from Dermot Hannifin. Gerard Murphy scored another Rangers point to give them victory.

That was indeed a game of two entirely different halves. Rangers played very poorly in the first half. How differently Rangers played in the second half! Pierce Prendiville began to dominate midfield. Gerard Murphy showed why he was on the Co. Senior Football panel – he notched 1-3, the goal being a peach. Tom Johnston scored the second goal with a great right-footed effort. Joe Shannon scored the rest of the scores from frees. John Evans played well in the second half. The backs played well, with Pat O Brien in a little trouble. Rangers had to play without the services of Timmy Fleming and Shane O Sullivan who were playing with the Kerry U-21 team in the All-Ireland semi-final on the following day.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, James Sheehan, Brian O Shea, Anthony Shannon, Pat O Brien, Paudie Sheahan, Mark O Connor, Tom Johnston (1-0), Pat McKenna, Paul Griffin (0-2), Joe Shannon (0-3, frees), Danny Cahill, John Evans, Pierce Prendiville, Gerard Murphy (1-3). Subs: Billy O Sullivan for D. Cahill, Bertie O Riordan, Michael Moriarty, Michael O Reilly, Timmy Corkery, Pat Pigott.

Desmonds: Charlie Nelligan, Domo Kirwan, Tommy Roche, Wilsie King, Kevin McMahon, Michael John Kearney, Michael Sweeney, Dermot Hannifin, Tommy Horan, Martin Downey, Donie Buckley, Donal Murphy, Willie O Connor, Christy Kearney, Dan Lucey. Sub: Phillip Horan for D. Lucey.

Ref: Dan Moynihan (Legion).

 

Rd. 6 on Sat. 11^th June at Strand Road: Kerins O Rahilly’s 0-8; Laune Rangers 1-10.

Laune Rangers easily disposed of a weak Kerins O Rahilly’s challenge at Caherina. At no stage did Rangers seem in trouble and were happy with the way the team was blending. They moved the ball well and always had that bit extra teamwork, which their opponents lacked. Gerard Murphy, Timmy Fleming, Paul Griffin, James Sheehan and Shane O Sullivan were the heroes of the victory, particularly Gerard Murphy who gave Cathal Sheehy a roasting. The Killorglin man was the class player on the field. He kicked four splendid points from play and every time he won possession, danger loomed for the Strand Road men.

Conditions were ideal for good football. Pierce Hoare got O Rahilly’s off to a good start, pointing a 40m free inside three minutes. Gerard Murphy had the first of his points to level matters after eight minutes. O Rahilly’s were back in front when Co. Minor, Maurice O Carroll, slotted over another free from 30m. Pat McKenna cancelled that out to leave the sides level after 20 minutes play. Mick Griffin put the ‘Blues’ in front with their first point from play two minutes later. Rangers took over from there and points by Timmy Fleming (2 frees), and Pierce Prendiville were followed by a brilliantly worked goal from Joe Shannon. That was a great team effort, the ball being swung around the pitch without an O Rahilly’s player touching it. Joe Shannon’s first attempt was blocked by goalkeeper, Tom Lynch, and fullback, Noel O Sullivan, but, following up, he quickly got the rebound and was left with a simple tap-in, which he gratefully accepted. Maurice O Carroll closed the first half scoring with points from two placed balls, leaving Rangers 1-4 to 0-5 in the lead.

O Rahilly’s second half challenge was very poor, as Rangers strolled through. Early points from Gerard Murphy (2) left Rahillys with it all to do. Substitute, Frank O Connor, scored their first point of the half in the 13^th minute. Further points by Joe Shannon and Paul Griffin set the League Champions on the road to victory and they never looked like losing it. Gerard Murphy and substitute, Billy O Sullivan, had two more points before the final whistle, while all O Rahilly’s could muster was another two points from frees by Maurice O Carroll.

Rangers were slow to start and never really played beyond half pace. They laboured at midfield in the first half. The backs played well throughout but there seemed to have been some problem in the fullback line. The midfield improved in the second half and the forwards responded to the supply of the ball.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, James Sheehan, Brian O Shea, Anthony Shannon, Pat O Brien, Paudie Sheahan, Shane O Sullivan, Tom Johnston, Timmy Fleming (0-1), Paul Griffin (0-1), Pat McKenna (0-1), Joe Shannon (1-1), John Evans, Pierce Prendiville (0-1), Gerard Murphy (0-4). Subs: Danny Cahill for J. Evans, Billy O Sullivan (0-1) for P. McKenna, Mark O Connor for P. Griffin.

Kerins O Rahilly’s: Tom Lynch, Cathal Sheehy, Noel O Sullivan, Mike O Halloran, Niall Savage, Ken Savage, Morgan Nix, David Burke, Pierce Hoare, Maurice O Carroll, Tom O Sullivan, Davy Keane, Mick Griffin, Sean Walsh, Con O Connor. Sub: Frank O Connor for C. O Connor.

Ref: Dan O Sullivan (Currow).

 

Rd. 7 on Sat. 25^th June at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 1-10; John Mitchel’s 0-6.

The first half of that game produced very lively fare. Both sides played fast, open football that was spoiled by an over fussy referee. John Mitchels fielded without the services of Donal McEvoy and Anthony Gleeson while the home side had to line out without Gerard Murphy and a few minors.

The visitors elected to play with the aid of the slight breeze and James Dowd opened their account when he pointed a 14m free. Rangers replied with a nice point from newcomer Michael Moriarty, who proceeded to be a constant thorn in the side of the losers.  Joe Shannon was penalised for over-carrying the ball and Martin Dennehy pointed from 40m out. The Rangers’ player made amends two minutes later when he pointed a free. The next few minutes were played at a fast and furious pace, the ball moving up and down the field. James Sheehan, in the home defence, was outstanding while, at the other end, John Higgins and Dan O Connor cleared their lines well. Martin Dennehy pointed a free and Noel Kelliher stretched the visitors’ lead with a good point. John Evans then came into the game for the home side and he set Michael Moriarty up for a nice point. Noel Kelliher, who gave Paudie Sheahan a tough time in that half, closed the scoring to leave the halftime score at 0-5 to 0-3 in favour of the Tralee side.

The second half began in dramatic fashion, when Shane O Sullivan had to leave the field after a collision (He had been having the proverbial blinder, but he had to be hospitalised after the injury). He was replaced by Timmy Corkery. That seemed to galvanise the League Champions into greater action. Joe Shannon lorded the game at midfield and Tom Johnston also had a very solid game. Two well-taken points by Pat McKenna levelled the scores. Pierce Prendiville put the winners ahead and then, in a defence splitting move, following a mistake by a Mitchels defender, John Evans placed Michael Moriarty for a great goal. The introduction of John ‘Thorny’ O Shea did little to stem the tide, though a fisted effort went only inches wide. Further points by Paul Griffin and Michael Moriarty stretched the home side’s lead. In the 25^th minute, Joe Shannon was replaced by Gene Evans when he injured his knee. Pat McKenna pointed two well-taken frees before Mitchels had their only score of that half – a point by Martin Dennehy.

That was a great team performance. Joe Shannon and Tom Johnston were magnificent at midfield. James Sheehan was excellent in the fullback line and all the halfback line played well. The forwards were in lethal form, each one playing attractive, constructive football.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, James Sheehan, Brian O Shea, Anthony Shannon, Pat O Brien, Paudie Sheahan, Shane O Sullivan, Tom Johnston, Joe Shannon (0-1), Paul Griffin (0-1), Pierce Prendiville (0-1), Mark O Connor, Pat McKenna (0-4), John Evans, Michael Moriarty (1-3). Subs: Timmy Corkery for S. O Sullivan (inj.), Gene Evans for J. Shannon (inj.), Pat Pigott, John Griffin. Missing were Gerard Murphy (Munster SFC), Danny Cahill and Billy O Sullivan (Munster MFC), Timmy Fleming (anniversary Mass).

John Mitchel’s: Rory Kilgallon, Dermot Horgan, John Higgins, Dan O Connor, Robert Dowd, Colm Bambury, Tim O Donnell, James Dowd, John Joe Sheehy, Johnny Roche, Noel Kelliher (0-2), Frank O Donnell, Kevin Kelliher, Martin Dennehy (0-3), John Dowd (0-1). Subs: Martin Lowe for J. Dowd, John O Shea for K. Kelliher, Thomas Kelliher for J. Roche.

Ref: Tom Golden (Desmonds).

 

Rd. 8 on Sat. 6^th Aug. at Connolly Park: Austin Stack’s 1-10; Laune Rangers 2-8.

Leading by 2-7 to 0-7 at halftime, the League Champions for the previous two years, Laune Rangers, just held out against a courageous Austin Stacks’ second half fight back, to win by the minimum at the final whistle. That win kept the Killorglin boys firmly at the top in quest of the three-in-a-row, while Stacks were deeper in relegation trouble. Laune Rangers came away from the Connolly Park grounds rather fortunate winners. They were very good in the first half but unbelievably poor in the second half. Austin Stacks lost but they deserved at least a share in the spoils. That was a tremendous game of football, clean, sporting and highly enjoyable – a game worthy of a championship tie. The spectators, on a beautiful evening, saw an all out attacking encounter, lively movements, splendid scores and brilliant goalkeeping by Laune Rangers’ Peter Lyons.

The football in the opening half was electrifying, with the scores level on five occasions. John L. McElligott got Stacks’ first score, a point from a 13m free. Pierce Prendiville equalised for Rangers from play. John L. McElligott again from a 13m free and Timmy Fleming likewise levelled the scores at 0-2 each. Paul Griffin gave Rangers back the lead with a point from play. Brian O Sullivan was having a fine game at midfield for Stacks. In the next bout of action, Stacks brought out the best in Peter Lyons, when he bravely defied Martin McKivergan of a goal by diving at his feet to avert the danger. Stacks drew level when a spectacular catch by Brian O Sullivan sent John L. McElligott through for a good point. Darren Ahern put Stacks in the lead with a great point. The same player brought another alert piece of goalkeeping from Peter Lyons, when he flung his body to block a goal-bound kick. Rangers, after withstanding that Stacks’ pressure and inspired by Peter Lyons’ courage, came up-field. Timmy Fleming, who was gaining in confidence around the centre, pointed a 30m free. Pierce Prendiville fisted over another from a Timmy Fleming ‘45’. John L. McElligott, from a 13m free, for a heavy tackle on Michael Crowley after releasing the ball, made it 0-5 each. Timmy Corkery was proving quite a handful for Stacks’ Pat Slattery and twice in succession he was chopped down. Timmy Fleming made no mistake with the frees. Michael Crowley got his fist to a David O Lehane centre to score a point. With four minutes left to play in the first half came Rangers first goal, from the penalty spot after Pat McKenna had been upended. Timmy Fleming struck a powerful shot, inches high off the ground, inside the right-hand upright of Michael Hussey. With over one minute left came Rangers’ second goal, another taken with great aplomb by John Evans after a defence-splitting pass from Paul Griffin. Evans, with only Hussey to beat, shot low to the net from the 13m line past the advancing goalkeeper. Stacks pulled back a point before the break from a Brian O Sullivan ’45,’ to leave those two goals dividing the teams at the interval.

In the second half, John Walsh had the opening point. Timmy Fleming, a fine point from play 40m out, made it 2-8 to 0-8 after eight minutes. That was the Killorglin’s team last score. The remainder saw Stack’s the dominant force. Rangers just died. Gone was the sparkling football of the opening half. Instead urgency and frustration was in their play. Stacks owned the ball. The Rangers’ defence was working overtime, with young Mark O Connor, at left fullback, popping up all over the place trying to avert dangerous Stacks’ onslaughts. John L. McElligott scored a point from a free. Another wonderful save by Peter Lyons from a Michael Crowley rasper, saw the ball deflected out for a ‘45’. Rangers were still five points to the good with eight minutes left to play. Then Stacks’ got the break that they always threatened. A ball centred in from the right wing 30m out, by Michael Crowley, deceived the backs and forwards and Peter Lyons and ended up in the far left corner of the net. The score was then 2-8 to 1-9 and Stacks were going all out to snatch victory. John L. McElligott scored a point from a 30m free. The seconds were ticking away but the equaliser never came as the game ended in a welter of excitement. Best for Rangers were Mark O Connor, Brian O Shea, Tom Johnston and Pat O Brien in defence, Timmy Fleming and Joe Shannon at midfield and Timmy Corkery, Paul Griffin and John Evans in attack.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, James Sheehan, Brian O Shea, Mark O Connor, Pat O Brien, Tom Johnston, Shane O Sullivan, Joe Shannon, Timmy Fleming (1-5, penalty and 4 frees), Paul Griffin (0-1), Pierce Prendiville (0-2), Pat McKenna, Timmy Corkery, John Evans (1-0), Gerard Murphy. Subs: Michael O Reilly for Gerard Murphy, Michael Moriarty for J. Evans, John O Dwyer for P. McKenna.

Austin Stack’s: Michael Hussey, Mike Tunney, Eamonn O Brien, Pat Slattery, John Shanahan, Mike Counihan, John Galvin, Brian O Sullivan (0-1, a 45), John Walsh (01), Martin McKivergan, David O Lehane, John L. McElligott (0-5, 4 frees), Tadhg Crowley (0-1), Michael Crowley (1-1), Darren Ahern (0-1). Sub: Gene O Donnell for J. Shanahan.

Ref: Denis Reidy (Ballymac) – very good.

 

Rd. 9 on Sat. 3^rd Sept. at Fitzgerald Stadium: Dr. Crokes 2-9; Laune Rangers 2-7.

Both teams were under strength, with Laune Rangers having to field without the Shannon brothers Anthony and Joe. Crokes applied the early pressure but it was Rangers that opened the scoring after just four minutes. A free, floated in to the Croke’s goal area, was forced home in a melee with the last touch being applied by Pierce Prendiville. Almost immediately Crokes had the chance to level matters. Peter Lyons was caught in possession and, from the resultant play, Ger O Shea was upended in the penalty area. However, Pat O Shea’s shot was straight at goalkeeper Lyons, who had little difficulty in saving. Crokes opened their account after eight minutes, when Noel O Leary pointed after a good passing movement. Colm Galvin had their second point a minute later and the same player had a goal disallowed immediately afterwards for a square infringement.

Although play was evenly contested, it was punctuated with a series of misplaced passes, with Rangers the more guilty in that respect. Mike Buckley’s giant leap and delivery levelled the scores after 14 minutes as Crokes exerted a firm grip on the game. Crokes took the lead for the first time when Buckley once again outfielded his marker and shot what looked very much like a cross, which completely deceived Peter Lyons and landed in the far corner of the net. Gerard Murphy was wide for Rangers before he eventually escaped the Crokes’ defensive cover to land his first score of the game and narrow the gap to just two points. Noel O Leary was well wide with a 45 before Pat O Shea set up Ger O Shea to give Crokes back their three points lead. A Mike Buckley interception set up the chance for Pat O Shea to kick Crokes’ fifth point and give them a 1-5 to 1-1 lead at halftime.

Rangers resumed with Timmy Fleming, who had been ineffective in the first half, on the forty and Gerard Murphy on the left wing. Paul Griffin kicked wide for Rangers before Ger O Shea wasted a kickable free at the other end. Timmy Corkery had his and Rangers’ first score of the second half to reduce the lead to three points. That score was quickly negatived by young Aidan O Shea, whose long range effort was on target from all of 45 metres. Rangers were, however, making quite a distinct impression at midfield at that stage, with the high fielding of Pierce Prendiville and Tom Johnston causing some problems for the Crokes. Their over-elaboration did not, however, transfer any advantage into scores. Both Gerard Murphy and Michael Moriarty had wides for the league holders before they introduced Joe Shannon in place of full-forward John Evans. A costly defensive lapse by Aidan Kiely gave Gerard Murphy the opportunity to kick his second point of the game. Aidan O Shea’s long-range effort came off the crossbar into the arms of the waiting Connie Doherty, but he failed to convert a definite goaling chance.

Noel O Leary took over the place-kicking duties to land Crokes’ second point of the half and increase their lead to four points. Mike Buckley, an influence all through, supplied a crossfield pass to Ger O Shea who, from an acute angle, had Crokes’ eighth point. Just reward for the efforts of their hard-working midfield and halfback line, allowed Rangers back into the game. Timmy Fleming pointed a free for a foul on himself and then supplied an excellent through ball to Gerard Murphy, whose left-footed shot finished to the net in style to leave the narrowest of margins between the sides. Rangers were then firmly in command and it was Timmy Fleming who landed the equaliser to set up a hectic final ten minutes. Mike Buckley, with just six minutes left, had Crokes in front once more but, after Michael Moriarty was wide, Timmy Fleming levelled for Rangers. Corner-back, James Sheehan, sallied up-field to kick what looked like the winning score for the Killorglin side and Noel O Leary, from a simple free, was wide for the Killarney side. With time almost up Crokes, to their eternal credit, retained their composure and a ball, put into the path of Pat O Shea, was expertly dummied by him to give Connie Doherty a free run at the goal and even the advancing Peter Lyons could not prevent him from applying an excellent finish. That golden goal, in the very last minute of the game, gave Crokes a two points’ victory over the league leaders.

Rangers were bitterly disappointed that they came so close to sewing up the Division 1 title, but they only played to their potential for 20 minutes of the second half. Paudie Sheahan, at centre halfback, was their best player. His strong play limited Connie Doherty’s effectiveness over the hour. Mark O Connor and Shane O Sullivan also showed up well, with Pat O Brien and James Sheehan as tenacious as ever on the right flank of the defence. Pierce Prendiville and Tom Johnston enjoyed good spells of superiority at midfield, being especially effective under the high ball. In attack, Timmy Fleming, after a quiet first half, really came into his own during the second period and, along with Gerard Murphy, carried Rangers main scoring threat. Timmy Corkery was lively and creative, as was Paul Griffin, prior to his substitution. Joe Shannon’s ability to win possession brought about Rangers second half revival, when he was introduced as a substitute and, if he had been able to start the game, the result might have been quite different. Michael Moriarty tried hard throughout at both 40 yards and full-forward but his enthusiasm never brought a return on the score-sheet.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, James Sheehan (0-1), Brian O Shea, Mark O Connor, Pat O Brien, Paudie Sheahan, Shane O Sullivan, Tom Johnston, Pierce Prendiville (1-0), Paul Griffin, Michael Moriarty, Timmy Fleming (0-3), Timmy Corkery (0-1), John Evans, Gerard Murphy (1-2). Subs: Joe Shannon for J. Evans, Pat McKenna for P. Griffin.

Dr. Crokes: Colm O Shea, Aidan Kiely, Brendan Keogh, Mike Doody, John Clifford, Sean Clarke, Donal Mangan, Noel O Leary (0-2), John Galvin, Aidan O Shea (0-1), Connie Doherty (1-0), Colm Galvin (0-1), Pat O Shea (0-1), Mike Buckley (1-2), Ger O Shea (0-2). Sub: Noel Parker for S. Clarke.

Ref: Denis Reidy (Ballymac).

 

Rd. 10 on Sat. 24^th Sept. at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 2-17; Valentia 0-5.

This game doubled as Rd. 10 of the Co. League Division 1 and the semi-final of the Laune Rangers Centenary Tournament. Laune Rangers played great football. Gerard Murphy scored the two goals.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Anthony Shannon, Paudie Sheahan, Mark O Connor, Pat O Brien, James Sheehan, Shane O Sullivan, Tom Johnston, Pierce Prendiville, Joe Shannon, Michael Moriarty, Timmy Fleming, Paul Griffin, John Evans, Gerard Murphy. Subs: Pat McKenna for J. Evans, Michael O Reilly for T. Johnston, Pat Pigott.

Ref: Pa Mannix (Listry).

Rd. 11 on Sun. 16^th Oct. at Gneeveguilla: Gneeveguilla 0-9; Laune Rangers 2-16.

Laune Rangers convincingly beat Gneeveguilla in the Paddy O Leary Memorial Park, Gneeveguilla, to maintain their position as joint leaders of Div. 1. Except for a brief spell in the second half, Rangers dominated that uninspiring game, played on a heavy pitch before a small attendance. The game never developed as a contest and, after twenty minutes of play, Rangers had notched up 1-6 before the home side got their only score of the first half, a point from Ger Looney from a 20m free. Joe Shannon, who had an outstanding game, opened their scoring with a point inside the first minute. Two minutes later, he caught the ball from a Gneeveguilla kick-out, passed to Paul Griffin, who kicked to Timmy Fleming for a well-taken goal. Timmy Fleming added another point from a free and, during the next five minutes, points followed from Michael Moriarty, Paul Griffin and Pat McKenna. Tom Johnston was dominating midfield for Laune Rangers in that half and Gneeveguilla were unable to penetrate the Rangers’ defence, where Shane O Sullivan was wining most of the exchanges. He was ably assisted by Paudie Sheahan, Michael O Reilly and Pat O Brien.

When play resumed, Gneeveguilla looked like making a contest of the proceedings. Ger Looney began to gain the upper hand at midfield and Paudie Mahony, who had moved from the halfback line to the forwards, notched up two points in quick succession. Further points followed from Tadhg O Connor, Mike Finnegan and Ger Looney to reduce the lead to three points. However, Gneeveguilla, playing below full-strength, ran out of steam and Laune Rangers reasserted themselves with points from Timmy Fleming, John Evans, Joe Shannon and Michael Moriarty. After twenty minute, Tom Johnston fielded a high ball at midfield and kicked to the ever-alert Timmy Fleming, who passed to corner-forward Pat McKenna, who put paid to any revival hopes by Gneeveguilla with a well-taken goal. The game was then effectively over and the visitors were able to pick off points at will.

Gneeveguilla had very little interest in the proceedings. They treated Rangers to tea and sandwiches afterwards. Rangers were then in a play-off with Dr. Croke’s for the title.

Laune Rangers: Gene Evans, Anthony Shannon, Paudie Sheahan, Jerry Foley, Pat O Brien, Michael O Reilly, Shane O Sullivan, Tom Johnston, Pierce Prendiville, Joe Shannon (0-5), Michael Moriarty (0-2), Timmy Fleming (1-3), Paul Griffin (0-2), John Evans (0-2), Pat McKenna (1-2). Subs: John F. O Brien for A. Shannon, Pat Pigott for P. Griffin, Peter Lyons, Fergus O Meara.

Gneeveguilla: Paudie Hickey, D. Cremin, Danno Keeffe, J. Sheehan, Paudie Mahony (0-2), Aenus Looney, John O Donovan, Ger Looney (0-3), James Brosnan, E. O Leary, Brendan Cremin (0-1), Tadhg O Connor (0-1), Mike Finnegan (0-1), C. Crowley (0-1), N. Buckley.

Ref: Pa Mannix (Listry).

 

Play-off (Final) on Sun. 6^th Nov. at Milltown: Dr. Croke’s 2-7; Laune Rangers 0-11.

While Croke’s cup of joy was full to overflowing at this victory, it was a disappointing result for the Launesiders, who were seeking their third successive league title. Rangers were in trouble at midfield for much of the game and their forwards never got their act together against a defence, which resisted stubbornly throughout. Timmy Fleming tried his heart out and was the Rangers’ outstanding player. However, he failed to get the other forwards moving as a unit. Even though they had the lion’s share of possession in the second half, they failed to convert that advantage into sufficient scores. Unfortunately for Timmy Fleming, he drove wide from the penalty spot in the 50^th minute, at a time when Rangers sorely needed a goal. That was a major let-off for Crokes, who managed to absorb an amount of pressure from the losers in the closing stages of the game, which was highly entertaining and fast-moving from start to finish.

Timmy Fleming opened the scoring with a point for Rangers in the opening seconds and that was quickly cancelled out by Aidan O Shea, who neatly tapped over a free for Crokes. Connie Doherty soon added another point for the Killarney men and O Shea pointed from another free before Tommy Byrne flicked over the bar for Rangers’ second score. At that stage, Noel O Leary was lording it around the centre of the field and accurate Aidan O Shea pointed yet again from a free to leave Crokes in front by 0-4 to 0-2 at the end of the first quarter. In the 16^th minute, Timmy Fleming curled over a lovely free from the left sideline to narrow the gap to the minimum. Then, proving their ability to snatch scores if only given a half-chance, Crokes struck for their first goal. Industrious corner-forward Connie Doherty kicked in a probing ball, which dropped between goalkeeper, Peter Lyons, and Colm Galvin of Crokes. Galvin got to it first, booted it first-time across the goalmouth and Connie Murphy raced through to rifle the ball into the empty net. That was a tremendous boost for the Crokes. However, Timmy Fleming and the subdued Gerard Murphy kept Rangers in touch with further points, leaving the score 1-4 to 0-5, before Crokes stormed up-field for their second goal. A shot by Colm Galvin was held by Peter Lyons, but his attempted clearance was blocked by Vince Casey and Connie Doherty was in the right place to palm the ball into the net. Aidan O Shea sent over another point to leave them ahead by 2-5 to 0-5 at the interval.

On the resumption, Gerard Murphy kicked wide from a scoreable position but Billy O Sullivan was set up by Joe Shannon for a point for the Rangers. The Killorglin men were in control for the third quarter but could only manage three points as opposed to two for their opponents. Danny Cahill came on for Michael Moriarty in a bid to inject more scoring power into Rangers’ attack but to no avail. Midway through, just as Crokes appeared to be slipping, Aidan O Shea kicked over two splendid points in rapid succession and by the forty-fifth minute the score stood at 2-7 to 0-7, reflecting a poor return for all the pressure exerted by Rangers. The evergreen Rangers’ midfielder, Tom Johnston, who tried his heart out in typical style, then picked off a point and the Killorglin men stormed into the Killarney area time after time. In defence, Rangers had an excellent fullback in Michael O Reilly, who consistently cleared his lines in the second half. In the fiftieth minute, Pierce Prendiville won possession twenty-one yards out from goal and burst through the middle. He was hauled down for a penalty. However, Timmy Fleming kicked the penalty shot badly wide to the left of the posts and a marvellous chance of getting back into the game was missed. A goal would have reduced the lead to two points and, at the way Rangers continued to pile on the pressure, would have left the men in the black and amber in a very vulnerable position.

Rangers continued to dominate for the remainder of the match and had three further points per Pat McKenna, Timmy Fleming (free) and James Sheehan, who kicked over in the 62^nd minute. While full credit had to go to the beaten Co. Finalists, it had to be stated that they came under intense pressure as the game wore on. Rangers, with a full-forward line made up entirely of minors in the second half, lacked penetration and experience and had reason to rue many missed chances.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, James Sheehan (0-1), Michael O Reilly, Mark O Connor, Pat O Brien, Paudie Sheahan, Shane O Sullivan, Tom Johnston (0-1), Pierce Prendiville, Joe Shannon, Michael Moriarty, Timmy Fleming (0-5, 4 frees), Paul Griffin, Tommy Byrne (0-1), Gerard Murphy (0-1). Subs: Billy O Sullivan (0-1) for P. Griffin, Pat McKenna (0-1) for M. Moriarty, Danny Cahill for S. O Sullivan, Anthony Shannon, Pat Pigott, Timmy Corkery.

Dr. Crokes: Colm O Shea, Aidan Kiely, Brendan Keogh, Liam Hartnett, John Clifford, John Galvin, Donal Mangan, Peter Fleming, Noel O Leary, Aidan O Shea (0-6, 3 frees), Connie Murphy (1-0), Vince Casey, Colm Galvin, Mike Buckley, Connie Doherty (1-1). Subs: Noel Parker for A. Kiely.

Ref: Pa Mannix (Listry).

Co. Club B Championship (Molyneaux Cup)

That was a knockout competition. Players who had played in the Co. Senior Championship (1988) were ineligible to play, unless they had been regraded. Laune Rangers had regraded Gene Evans, Teddy Clifford, Michael O Reilly, Pat McKenna and John Griffin.

 

Rd. 1 on Tues. 26^th July at Boherbue: John Mitchel’s B 1-8; Laune Rangers B 1-5.

Laune Rangers: Liam Foley, Donal Hurley, Owen Mangan, Bertie O Riordan, Gene Evans, Jerry Foley, John F. O Brien, Michael O Reilly, Sean Fenton, Brian O Sullivan, Pa Foley, Pat Pigott, John O Dwyer, John Whelan, Francis Brennan. Subs: Mark O Sullivan for D. Hurley, Maurice O Shea for P. Pigott, Brendan Corkery for J. Whelan.

 

Co. League Division 4

 

Rd. 1 on Sun. 27^th March at Cromane: Cromane 3-4; Laune Rangers B 0-13.

Laune Rangers should really have won that game. They conceded some really silly goals. They also missed a great chance of a goal when Pat Brennan blazed wide with only the goalkeeper to beat.

Laune Rangers: Liam Foley, Donal Hurley, Owen Mangan, Declan Crowley, Martin Clifford, Jerry Foley, Tommy Woods, Michael O Reilly (capt.) 0-1, Michael Moriarty, Pat Pigott (0-4), Patrick Foley, Dermot Griffin, Brian O Sullivan (0-3), John Griffin (0-4), Pat Brennan (0-1). Subs: Tommy Byrne for M. Clifford, Donal Pigott, John F. O Brien, Joseph Hoare.

Ref: Mick Galwey (Currow).

 

Rd. 2 on Sun. 3^rd April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers B 4-13; Skellig Rangers 1-4.

John O Dwyer, upon his return to football after a long absence through injury, scored two goals and set up the other two for Michael Moriarty and Donal Pigott. Brian O Sullivan was very industrious and accurate. John F. O Brien, Michael O Reilly, Jerry Foley, Gene Evans and Donal Hurley played very well.

Laune Rangers B: Liam Foley, Donal Hurley, Owen Mangan, Gene Evans, Pat Pigott, Jerry Foley, John F. O Brien, Michael O Reilly, Michael Moriarty, Brian O Sullivan, Pa Foley, Dermot Griffin, John O Dwyer, Pat Brennan, Donal Pigott. Subs: Francis Brennan, Joseph Hoare, Tony Foley (all played).

Ref: Jerry Coffey (Kilcummin).

 

Rd. 3 on Sun. 24^th April at Tuosist: Tuosist 2-6; Laune Rangers B 1-8.

Rangers led by 1-8 to 2-2 at halftime. However, they were well beaten at midfield in the second half. Only John Evans and John Griffin played well in the forwards.

Laune Rangers: Pat Pigott, Donal Hurley, Owen Mangan, Tommy Woods, John F. O Brien, Jerry Foley, Declan Crowley, Michael Moriarty, Marin Clifford, Mark O Connor, John Evans, Bertie O Riordan, John O Dwyer, John Griffin, Donal Pigott. Subs: Maurice Corkery, Dominic Crowley.

Ref: Tom Brennan (Desmonds).

 

Rd. 4 on Sun. 15^th May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers B 2-11; Kilgarvan 0-7.

Rangers dominated throughout and should have won by twice as much. All the backs were sound, though they did some fouling needlessly. Midfield was well on top throughout. Bertie O Riordan scored the first goal and Martin Clifford got the second. The forwards put some good moves together even if the finish did not reap the deserved reward always. With ten minutes left to play a skirmish broke out, when their right fullback aimed a kick at Michael O Reilly. Owen Mangan became involved and having dished out some treatment to the offending No. 2, they were both sent off. (At a subsequent Co. Board meeting, both were suspended for three months). John Evans also became involved and dished out treatment to some deserving members of the opposition. He was withdrawn by the selectors for safety sake – the opposition’s!

Laune Rangers: Pat Pigott, Donal Hurley, Owen Mangan, Declan Crowley, Gene Evans, Jerry Foley, John F. O Brien, Michael O Reilly, Martin Clifford, Bertie O Riordan, Michael Moriarty (capt.), Donal Pigott, John O Dwyer, John Evans, John Griffin. Subs: Tommy Woods for D. Pigott, John Whelan for J. O Dwyer, Anthony O Sullivan for B. O Riordan.

Ref: Mick Galwey (Currow).

 

Rd. 5 on Sat. 11^th June at Dromid: Foilmore 1-7; Laune Rangers B 5-11.

Unfortunately, the opposition was not good. John Griffin scored 3-5 and Maurice Corkery got a goal. Before the Rangers left the square for the game, they had just 13 players. They implored Michael O Reilly, who was in the square, to go but he refused. They then called for Mark O Sullivan, who was studying for the Leaving Certificate, and he travelled with the team. Maurice Corkery, selector, also played.

Laune Rangers: Tony Foley, Donal Hurley, Pat Pigott, Tommy Woods, Mark O Sullivan, Jerry Foley, Bertie O Riordan, Martin Clifford, Michael Moriarty, Donal Pigott, Sean Fenton, Joe Hoare, John O Dwyer, John Griffin, Maurice Corkery.

Ref: Jerry Keating (Renard).

 

Rd. 6 on Sun. 26^th June at Killorglin: Laune Rangers B 2-15; St. Michael’s 1-9.

Michael Moriarty played a captain’s part at midfield. The backs easily contained a weak opposition attack, while all the forwards scored.

Laune Rangers: Liam Foley, Gene Evans, Donal Hurley, Pat O Pigott, Bertie O Riordan, Jerry Foley, Sean Fenton, Michael Moriarty, Martin Clifford, Brian O Sullivan, John Evans, Donal Pigott, John O Dwyer, Mossy Joy, John Griffin. Subs: John Whelan for J. Griffin (inj.), John F. O Brien for P. Pigott, Brendan Corkery for J. O Dwyer, Maurice O Shea, Joe Hoare, Tony Foley.

Ref: Mossy Breen (Beaufort).

 

Rd. 7 on Sat. 2^nd July at Killorglin: Laune Rangers B 1-5; Listry 0-8.

Rangers did not play well at all. They lost the midfield battle. Michael Moriarty had a sore toe and could not function at full potential. John O Dwyer scored the goal. Michael O Reilly’s shot for goal hit the post at the very end with only the goalkeeper to beat – a point would have won the match for Rangers. Pat Pigott, Gene Evans, Bertie O Riordan, Brian O Sullivan and John Evans played well.

Laune Rangers: Liam Foley, Gene Evans, Donal Hurley, Pat Pigott, Bertie O Riordan, Jerry Foley, John F. O Brien, Michael O Reilly, Martin Clifford, Brian O Sullivan, John Evans, Mossy Joy, John O Dwyer, Michael Moriarty, John Griffin. Subs: Sean Fenton for J. O Brien, Donal Pigott, Owen Mangan, Maurice O Shea, Joe Hoare, John Whelan, Mark O Sullivan.

 

Rd. 8 on Sun. 7^th Aug. at Dromid: Dromid 1-5; Laune Rangers B 2-7.

Laune Rangers: Liam Foley, Mark O Sullivan, Pat Pigott, Gene Evans, Joe Hoare, Bertie O Riordan, John F. O Brien, Jerry Foley, Michael Moriarty, Brian O Sullivan, Sean Fenton, Donal Pigott, John O Dwyer, John Whelan, Francis Brennan.

 

Rd. 9 on Sun. 4^th Sept. at Deerpark: Dr. Croke’s B w/o; Laune Rangers B scr.

Laune Rangers had to concede the game as only six players turned up at the square.

 

Rd. 10 on Sun. 16^th Oct: Laune Rangers B scr; Milltown/Castlemaine B w/o.

Laune Rangers had to concede the game.

 

Mid-Kerry Senior Championship

That competition was played with a losers’ round.

 

Rd. 1 on Sun. 8^th May at Milltown: Laune Rangers 8-17; Glenbeigh/Glencar 0-5.

Kerry’s Eye saw the game as follows, ‘Laune Rangers made sure they weren’t going to suffer the same defeat as last year, when Glenbeigh surprised them in the first round of the Mid-Kerry Championship. They met a team eager to avenge last year’s defeat. The final score reflects their eagerness.

In the first half, Glenbeigh played against a very stiff breeze and they applied early pressure on Rangers. However, the first score fell to Timmy Fleming in the third minute when he pointed a 30m free. Glenbeigh replied in the fourth minute with a well-taken point by Michael Moriarty who easily got inside his marker. Rangers followed in the sixth minute with a point by Paul Griffin. In the eighth minute Rangers got the first of their eight goals from full-forward Pierce Prendiville, after a quick free by Timmy Fleming. Points followed for Rangers in the 9^th, 11^th and 12^th minutes by Gerard Murphy, Timmy Fleming and Joe Shannon. At this stage, it was all Laune Rangers, pushing forward all the time and finding plenty of space everywhere. In the 15^th minute, Rangers scored further points with Joe Shannon and John Evans involved. Goal number two came in the 17^th minute from Danny Cahill after good work by Pat O Brien and John Evans. In the 18^th minute, Rangers had a goal by Gerard Murphy disallowed, after he had received a great ball from Timmy Fleming. A further point followed in the 21^st minute from Joe Shannon, who was involved in a nice one-two with John Evans. Glenbeigh got their second point of the half in the 22^nd minute from Michael Moriarty, who again slipped his marker. In the 29^th minute, Pierce Prendiville scored a point to leave the halftime score at 2-8 to 0-2 in favour of Rangers.

The second half started as the first half had ended with pressure from Rangers. Points came in the 2^nd and 4^th minutes from Paul Griffin and Gerard Murphy. Goal number 3 came in the seventh minute from Danny Cahill after some good work by John Evans and Joe Shannon. Points followed in the 8^th and 9^th minutes from Gerard Murphy and Paul Griffin. These two were revelling in their positions. In the 10^th minute, Mark O Connor came on as a substitute for the Rangers after Danny Cahill had been struck a cruel blow to the face. Timmy Fleming pointed the resultant free. Goal number 4 came in the 11^th minute from the boot of Paul Griffin, after a great catch in the middle of the field by Timmy Fleming, who was lording at midfield, with help from Pat McKenna. A further point followed in the 14^th minute from Pat McKenna. Goal number 5 came in the 16^th minute from a penalty scored by Timmy Fleming, after John Evans was fouled. Glenbeigh got their first point of this half in the 20^th minute from Jimmy O Sullivan. Goal number 6 followed for the Rangers in the 21^st minute, when Mark O Connor finished off a good passing movement. Goal number 7 came in the 22^nd minute, scored by Gerard Murphy, after some very good work Joe Shannon. Gerard Murphy followed this up in the 23^rd minute with a well-taken point. Glenbeigh scored their 4^th point of the game in the 27^th minute through Pat O Grady. Goal number 8 came in the 29^th minute from Paul Griffin, after some very good work by Joe Shannon. Laune Rangers got their final score in the 30^th minute when Gerard Murphy pointed. Glenbeigh had the very last say in the very last second of the match when Kevin Clifford pointed.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, James Sheehan, Brian O Shea, Anthony Shannon, Pat O Brien, Paudie Sheahan, Shane O Sullivan, Pat McKenna (0-1), Timmy Fleming (1-4), Paul Griffin (2-3), Joe Shannon (0-3), Danny Cahill (2-0), John Evans, Pierce Prendiville (1-1), Gerard Murphy (1-5). Subs: Mark O Connor (1-0) for D. Cahill (inj.), Timmy Corkery, Pat Pigott.

Glenbeigh: Christy Moriarty, Morgan Sheehan, John Griffin, Gerard Foley, Matty Murphy, Pat O Grady, Mickey Moriarty, Jimmy O Sullivan, Patie Griffin, Patrick O Shea, Pat O Riordan, Jerome O Connor, Kevin Clifford, Seamus Griffin, Mike Moriarty.

Ref: Michael Murphy (Callanfercy).

 

Semi-final on Sun. 17^th July at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 1-10; Milltown/Castlemaine 0-5.

The score at halftime was 0-4 each. Though the Rangers’ backs played well in that half and the midfield was dominant, the forwards were quite poor with the exception of Timmy Fleming and Pierce Prendiville. After 10 minutes of the second half the scores were still level and then Tom Johnston scored a great point. That score seemed to settle the Killorglin boys and with Joe Shannon outstanding and Paudie Sheahan superb, the forwards responded splendidly. Pat McKenna scored two more points. Michael Moriarty played very well. Then Timmy Fleming moved to left half-forward and proceeded to play great football, getting a good goal in the process. The fullback line of James Sheehan, Brian O Shea and Anthony Shannon was great. The halfback line also played well. Tom Johnston and Joe Shannon excelled at midfield. Paul Griffin played well in the last ten minutes. Pierce Prendiville’s contribution was, as usual, vital. Pat McKenna played well in the last twenty minutes. John Evans never settled down and was replaced by Billy O Sullivan early in the game. Timmy Fleming played well, particularly when moved out the field.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, James Sheehan, Brian O Shea, Anthony Shannon, Pat O Brien, Paudie Sheahan (0-1), Mark O Connor, Joe Shannon (0-1), Tom Johnston (0-1), Paul Griffin (0-1), Pierce Prendiville, Pat McKenna (0-3), John Evans, Timmy Fleming (1-2), Michael Moriarty (0-1). Subs: Billy O Sullivan for J. Evans, Danny Cahill for B. O Sullivan, Gene Evans, Pat Pigott, Michael O Reilly, Timmy Corkery. Both Gerard Murphy and Shane O Sullivan were injured.

Ref: Michael O Sullivan (Glenbeigh).

 

Final on Sun. 11^th Sept. at Milltown: Laune Rangers 3-18; Glenbeigh/Glencar 0-5.

Champions Laune Rangers scored an all too easy victory over highly inferior opposition and in the process created a record six titles-in-a-row of Mid-Kerry Senior Championships. Conditions were perfect for both teams, but only the Launesiders could exploit them to the best advantage. Milltown’s wide pitch suited their style of play and a slight breeze favoured them in the second half.

Glenbeigh/Glencar started with promise and dominance at midfield in the early stages. Sean Barton converted two 20m frees within three minutes of play before Laune Rangers got into their stride. But when Rangers did slip into gear, there was no question of relaxing by them and once Timmy Fleming opened their account with a point, their stamp of authority was on the game until the final whistle.

One of the features of the Rangers forward line, was the ability of veteran full-forward, John Evans, to win frees. On three occasions in the first half he was fouled on the 20m line, leaving sharpshooter Timmy Fleming with the relatively simple task of tapping the ball over the bar. Also, Timmy Fleming kicked two fine points from play to contribute handsomely to Laune Rangers’ lead of 1-7 to 0-3 at halftime. Rangers’ goal had come at the end of the first quarter. A cross-field ball found Gerard Murphy inside his man and the man-of-the-match had no problem in tucking beyond the reach of the goalie. Minutes after that Paul Griffin spurned a gilt-edged opportunity, when he sliced the ball wide from an identical position.

Laune Rangers dominance continued unhindered in the second half with goals from Timmy Fleming (penalty) and Paul Griffin, who made up for his earlier miss. In between there were fine points, but the standard of the opposition took from those. Glenbeigh/Glencar never came into the game after their early foray and by the time Laune Rangers had pointed four times in three minutes at the end of the third quarter, the white flag of surrender had been well and truly raised.

That was an historic six-in-a-row of Mid-Kerry Senior Championships. Gerard Murphy was awarded man-of-the-match for the second year in a row but it could just as easily have been awarded to Joe Shannon, James Sheehan, Pat O Brien or Paul Griffin, all of whom excelled. Essentially it was a great team performance. The people who chose the man-of-the-match were Jeremiah Kerins (Milltown), Sean Foley (Keel) and Noel Spillane (Beaufort).

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Anthony Shannon, Paudie Sheahan, Mark O Connor, Pat O Brien, James Sheehan, Shane O Sullivan, Tom Johnston (0-1), Pierce Prendiville (capt.) 0-2, Joe Shannon (0-3), Michael Moriarty, Timmy Fleming (1-7, 5 frees), Paul Griffin (1-0), John Evans, Gerard Murphy (1-5). Subs: Pat McKenna for J. Evans, Gene Evans for M. O Connor, Timmy Corkery, Michael O Reilly, Pat Pigott.

Glenbeigh/Glencar: Christy Moriarty, Morgan Sheehan, John Griffin, Pat O Riordan, Mattie Murphy, Pat O Grady, Andrew O Grady, Aidan Roche, Gerard O Connor, Patie Griffin (0-1), Jimmy O Sullivan, Patrick Foley, Sean Barton (0-4), Teddy O Connor, Donal Griffin. Sub: Lar Joe McKenna for M. Sheehan, Padraig O Shea for M. Murphy.

Ref: Kieran Breen (Beaufort).

Mid-Kerry Senior League

 

Rd. 1 on Sun. 7^th Feb. at Beaufort: Beaufort 0-2; Laune Rangers 1-13

Laune Rangers played very good football on a very inclement day. The pitch was in very good condition. Timmy Fleming and Paul Griffin played very well. Joe Shannon was playing with Kerry in the National Football League versus Derry and Gerard Murphy was a substitute. Timmy Fleming was in great form, scoring some fine points from play and frees. Laune Rangers led at halftime by 0-7 to 0-1. Timmy got a great goal in the second half to ensure that the team got off to the best of starts in centenary year.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Bertie O Riordan, Brian O Shea, Anthony Shannon, Pat O Brien, Paudie Sheahan, Shane O Sullivan, Tom Johnston (0-1), Michael O Reilly (0-3), Pat McKenna, Pierce Prendiville (0-2), Timmy Fleming (1-5), Paul Griffin (0-2), Michael Moriarty, John Evans. Subs: Owen Mangan for B. O Shea, Mark O Connor for P. Prendiville, Pat Pigott for A. Shannon.

Beaufort: John Cronin, Derry Coffey, D.D. O Sullivan, Randle Joy, Patie Hartnett, Donie Hartnett, John B. O Brien, Francis Courtney, Michael Moriarty, Michael Curran, John O Connor, Ian O Shea, Cormac O Shea, Donal Courtney, James Courtney. Sub: Gerard Doyle for D. Courtney.

Ref: Michael Murphy (Callanfercy).

 

Rd. 2 on Sun. 14^th Feb. at Keel: Keel 0-3; Laune Rangers 1-11.

Laune Rangers played well in bad conditions – the pitch had to be shortened as the goalposts at the lower end of the field had fallen. Keel elected to play against the strong breeze in the first half and were on the defensive as the much sharper Rangers team attacked. Stout hearted defensive work by Keel fullback, Johnny Sheehan, kept the visitors at bay. However, Paul Griffin was in great form and took two good points. But for some wild shooting by midfielder Michael O Reilly, Rangers would have been further ahead at halftime. As it was they led by 1-5 to 0-0. The move that had led to the goal began with good work by Bertie O Riordan, who sent in a long ball to Danny Cahill, who in turn transferred to the inrushing Paul Griffin who made no mistake. At halftime, the visitors introduced Joe Shannon and continued to dominate. Fleeting efforts by Danny Evans and John Foley for Keel were thwarted by the lively Rangers’ backs, in particular Pat O Brien, Shane O Sullivan, Bertie O Riordan, Anthony Shannon and the ever alert Peter Lyons. Danny Evans did manage to get two points for Keel but points by Paul Griffin, Danny Cahill and Joe Shannon gave victory to the Rangers. Gerard Murphy was a substitute on the Kerry team versus Mayo in the NFL.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Bertie O Riordan, Brian O Shea, Anthony Shannon, Pat O Brien, Paudie Sheahan, Shane O Sullivan, Michael O Reilly, Owen Mangan, Paul Griffin (1-4), Pierce Prendiville (0-2), Michael Moriarty (0-1), Donal Hurley, John Evans, Danny Cahill (0-2). Subs: Joe Shannon (0-2) for D. Hurley, Pat Pigott for D. Cahill.

Keel: Billy Corcoran, Sean Foley, Johnny Sheehan, Mike Sayers, Paddy Hilliard, John Ladden, Mike Murphy, Larry McKenna, Tommy Evans, Denis Foley, Vincent Prendergast, Austin McGinley, Mike O Brien, John Corcoran, John Cahillane. Subs: Joe Long for V. Prendergast, John Foley for M. Murphy, William O Shea for A. McGinley.

Ref: Michael Murphy (Callanfercy).

 

Rd. 3 on Sun. 21^st Feb. at Cromane: Cromane 1-6; Laune Rangers 3-6.

The field was in terrible condition. Rangers, playing with the aid of the wind, were first to score with a point from Timmy Fleming. Cromane replied with a point from Patie Casey. Next came the first goal of the day from the boot of Danny Cahill. Patie Casey had a point for the home team but that was their last score of the half. It was all Rangers with a point from Danny Cahill, a goal by Joe Shannon, a point from Michael O Reilly and another goal by Danny Cahill. That left the halftime score at 3-3 to 0-2. Cromane found the going hard against the Rangers and would have been in a worse state except for good defensive work by Brian Casey, Michael Stack and James O Shea.

In the second half, Cromane applied pressure and had a good point from Patie Casey. Rangers replied with a point from a free from the boot of Timmy Fleming. The home side kept trying unsuccessfully for goals and had four or five wides in as many minutes. But for good defensive work by Bertie O Riordan and Pat O Brien, Cromane might have had a few points. Rangers had a point from James Sheehan and Cromane had a point from Gerard Casey. Timmy Flaherty had Cromane’s only goal. Gerard Casey had a point from play and Liam Hayes had their last score of the game. Rangers had points from Joe Shannon and Timmy Fleming to seal the issue.

Laune Rangers, with the exception of Joe Shannon, did not play well. Joe Shannon was outstanding and was subjected to some rough treatment throughout, even to the extent that players and supporters came in from the sideline on one occasion to partake in a melee involving him. Indeed the referee took no action. Joe Shannon had the last laugh, however, when he soloed through the defence to score a great goal.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Bertie O Riordan, Brian O Shea, Donal Hurley, Pat O Brien, Paudie Sheahan, Owen Mangan, Tom Johnston, Michael O Reilly (0-1), Paul Griffin, Pat McKenna, Timmy Fleming (0-2), Danny Cahill (2-1), James Sheehan (0-1), Joe Shannon (1-1). Subs: John Francis O Brien for O. Mangan, Pat Pigott for D. Hurley.

Cromane: Dan Stephens, Michael Fox O Shea, Tomás Hayes, Brian Casey, Michael Stack, James O Shea, Padraig McMahon, Liam Hayes, Patie Casey, Gerard Casey, Frank Walsh, Timmy Flaherty, John Sugrue, Michael Teahan, John O Shea. Subs: Padraig Teahan for J. O Shea.

Ref: Michael O Sullivan (Glenbeigh).

 

Rd. 4 on Sun. 28^th Feb. at Milltown: Milltown/Castlemaine 1-4; Laune Rangers 2-7.

A bitterly cold, northerly wind blowing mainly across the field made it difficult to play good football in the Paddy Burke Memorial Park, Milltown. Both teams fielded under-strength. The first half was played at a pedestrian pace and provided little for the small attendance to cheer about. Laune Rangers dominated midfield throughout that half and should have been more than 1-2 to 0-1 ahead at halftime, but for some inaccurate kicking by the forwards.

Michael O Reilly, receiving from the excellent Danny Cahill, opened the scoring for the visitors. Joe Shannon, compensating for an earlier miss, taking a good pass from Michael O Reilly, got a good point after eight minutes. The visitors, though camped in the opposition’s half of the field, were not to score again until the 29^th minute. At that stage, a free from Joe Shannon was fisted to the net by Pat McKenna. Meanwhile, the long serving Milltown captain, John P. O Sullivan, pointed a free. Though the inaccuracy of the Rangers’ forwards was mainly responsible for their low scoring, one also had to admire the very good defensive work of Gerard Teahan and Andrew Boyle in the home backline.

Milltown began the second half in whirlwind fashion with Liam Cronin flashing the ball over the bar for a good point from the throw-in. John Evans, who had replaced John Griffin at the break, replied with a clever point. Then a long, high ball into the square was fisted to the net by Sean Counihan. James Sheehan set Pat McKenna up for a good point. A sweeping move involving Paul Griffin and John Evans culminated in James Sheehan shooting to the net. John P. O Sullivan, who had a capital game, pointed a free after having been fouled himself. Thereafter, Rangers’ midfield of Tom Johnston and Joe Shannon completely dominated, leading to points by Tom Johnston, Michael O Reilly and James Sheehan. Milltown’s only reply was a point from a free by John P. O Sullivan.

Laune Rangers: Liam Foley, Bertie O Riordan, Brian O Shea, Shane O Sullivan, Danny Cahill, Paudie Sheahan, Pat O Brien, Tom Johnston (0-1), Joe Shannon (0-1), Pat McKenna (1-1), Pierce Prendiville, Michael O Reilly (0-2), Paul Griffin, James Sheehan (1-1), John Griffin. Subs: John Evans (0-1) for J. Griffin, Mark O Connor for P. Prendiville (inj.). Gerard Murphy was at left full-forward on the Kerry team in the NFL v Monaghan.

Milltown/Castlemaine: Jim O Connor, Michael O Carroll, James Mangan, Liam Spring, Jeremiah Murphy, Gerard Teahan, Andrew Boyle, Bertie Griffin, Sean Burke, Liam Cronin, John P. O Sullivan, Linus Burke, Albert Boyle, Willie Murphy, Sean Counihan.

Ref: Michael O Sullivan (Glenbeigh).

 

Rd. 5 on Sun. 13^th March at Glenbeigh: Glenbeigh/Glencar 0-5; Laune Rangers 1-12.

The opposition was poor and Rangers played poorly. That win put Rangers into the final.

Laune Rangers: Pat Pigott, Bertie O Riordan, Brian O Shea, Mark O Connor, Pat O Brien, Paudie Sheahan, Anthony Shannon, Joe Shannon, Pat McKenna, Paul Griffin, Pierce Prendiville, Gerard Murphy, John Griffin, James Sheehan, John Evans. Sub: Shane O Sullivan for J. Griffin.

Ref: Peter Twiss (Milltown/Castlemaine).

 

Final on Sun. 22^nd May at Milltown: Milltown/Castlemaine 0-9; Laune Rangers 1-11.

A goal on the stroke of halftime by Pierce Prendiville set Laune Rangers up for an impressive win over Milltown/Castlemaine in the final of the Mid-Kerry League. In a closely contested affair, the goal was the deciding factor, with very little else separating the sides. Laune Rangers had to be favourites going into that game but parish pride was a thing not to be trifled with and Milltown looked capable of causing an upset on more than one occasion. Playing against a strong breeze, Milltown opened the scoring in the second minute when county player, Willie Maher, had little difficulty in converting a 20m free. Rangers were very slow to settle but soon raided down the field and the eventual man-of-the-match Timmy Fleming converted a close-in free to level the scores. Timmy Fleming was again on target when in the 8^th minute he slotted over from a 14m free to put Rangers ahead. They continued to dominate the exchanges but some very bad shooting ensured that the scores were slow in coming. The Milltown boys were fighting for all they were worth and in the 9^th minute Willie Maher drew the sides level when he split the uprights from close range after a good passing movement. Milltown were coming into their own. Playing the ball well against the wind, they constantly looked like causing problems. With John P. O Sullivan, Liam Kelliher and Sean Counihan shining out, Milltown were putting it up to Laune Rangers. As the game entered the second quarter, Pierce Prendiville took a great point to put Rangers back in front. Timmy Fleming followed with another point. Yet Rangers were finding the going tough against a battling Milltown defence in which Mike Colgan shone out. Willie Maher reduced the gap to the minimum before Joe Shannon finished off a great passing movement, involving Timmy Fleming and Pierce Prendiville, with a point. Two points down and playing against the wind should have been a comfortable position for the Milltown boys to find themselves at the interval but Rangers were to render them a shattering blow. After being in contention for so long and holding out against very heavy pressure, the Milltown defence was guilty of a lapse in concentration and Pierce Prendiville took advantage of that lapse to finish a John Evans pass to the back of the net to leave the score at halftime 1-5 to 0-3 in favour of the visitors.

After holding out for so long against so much pressure, Pierce Prendiville’s goal came as a body blow to the Milltown men but they battled on regardless. Intent on getting back into the game, they went straight into the attack in the second half and, within two minutes, had reduced the gap to four points with a converted free from the boot of Willie Maher. Rangers were now on top. Their support play was first class, as well as their defence. Working the ball well, they looked the more impressive outfit. Their passing and off-the-ball work could not be faulted, and yet, against Milltown, they were forced to work for every score. Rangers opened their account in the second half with a point from Pat McKenna. That was followed almost immediately by a Joe Shannon minor to leave the score-line reading 1-7 to 0-4 in favour of Laune Rangers after ten minutes of the second half. Milltown replied with points by Bertie Griffin and Willie Maher before the game entered the final quarter. Milltown moved Maher out to the ‘40’ with Bertie Griffin moving in to fill the full-forward slot. However, they were still experiencing trouble up front, where their forwards seemed to be at sea for long periods of the game.

The final ten minutes were to be thrilling, action-packed stuff. Laune Rangers tacked on two points from Pierce Prendiville and Pat McKenna and looked to have the game sewn up. Milltown pressed hard and Willie Maher pointed to reduce the gap to five points. Rangers were playing the best football of the hour, as the game drew to a close. Further points from Timmy Fleming and Tom Johnston left the score-line reading 1-11 to 0-7 and the Rangers looked to be coasting home. Milltown again laid siege to the Rangers’ goal-mouth and two further points from Maher reduced the gap to five points with two minutes on the clock. The home side were really pushing but Rangers had the work done and could afford to sit back. Liam Kelliher nearly brought Milltown back into the game when he sent a blazing shot towards the Rangers’ goal-mouth. His shot from over 30m was to be denied by the woodwork and the ball bounced harmlessly back into play. That was to be Milltown’s last attempt as the Rangers held out to win.

Without ever exerting themselves, Laune Rangers won this game quite easily. James Sheehan was superb at right fullback, sweeping up and driving forward confidently. The halfback line was very good. The midfield pairing of Tom Johnston and Timmy Fleming dominated throughout and the latter was awarded man-of-the-match. All the forwards played well, with Pierce Prendiville being particularly outstanding.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, James Sheehan, Brian O Shea, Anthony Shannon, Pat O Brien, Paudie Sheahan, Shane O Sullivan, Tom Johnston (0-1), Timmy Fleming (0-4), Paul Griffin, Pat McKenna (0-2), Joe Shannon (0-2), John Evans, Pierce Prendiville (capt.) 1-2, Gerard Murphy. Subs: Danny Cahill for S. O Sullivan (inj.), Mark O Connor for J. Evans, Michael O Reilly for P. McKenna, Michael Moriarty, Pat Pigott, Timmy Corkery, Tommy Byrne, Billy O Sullivan.

Milltown/Castlemaine: Jim O Connor, Liam Spring, Mike Colgan, Brian Kerins, Mike Heffernan, Gerard Teahan, Andrew Boyle, Sean Burke, Mike Dennehy, Liam Cronin, Bertie Griffin (0-1), John P. O Sullivan, Liam Kelliher, Willie Maher (0-8, 7 frees), Sean Counihan.

Ref: Michael O Sullivan (Glenbeigh).

 

Mid-Kerry B Championship

 

That competition was played on a league basis on Tuesday evenings. There were four teams, Laune Rangers, Milltown/Castlemaine, Keel and Glenbeigh/Glencar. Laune Rangers’ players, who had played in either the County Senior Football Championship or the Mid-Kerry Senior Football Championship in 1987, were ineligible to play in that competition unless they were re-graded from senior status.

 

Rd. 1 on Tues. 17^th May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers B 4-2; Milltown/Castlemaine B 1-8.

Rangers played against the breeze in the first half and were six points in arrears at halftime. Billy O Sullivan scored 3-2, one goal from a penalty, and John O Dwyer scored the other goal. Rangers did not play well at all. As a matter of fact, the standard of football that was played was poor.

Laune Rangers: Tony Foley, Mark O Sullivan, Declan Crowley, Tommy Woods, Pat Pigott, Jerry Foley, John F. O Brien, Pa Foley, Martin Clifford (capt.), Anthony O Sullivan, Mossy Joy, Donal Pigott, John O Dwyer, John Whelan, Billy O Sullivan. Subs: Sean Fenton for J. Whelan, Joe Hoare, Maurice O Shea, Christopher Foley.

Ref: Michael Healy (Cromane).

 

Rd. 2 on Tues. 24^th May at Glenbeigh: Glenbeigh/Glencar B 1-5; Laune Rangers B 2-7.

Patrick Pigott and Dermot Griffin scored the goals.

Laune Rangers: Tony Foley, Mark O Sullivan, Declan Crowley, Tommy Woods, Pat Pigott, Jerry Foley, John F. O Brien, Martin Clifford, Sean Fenton, Anthony O Sullivan, Mossy Joy, Donal Pigott, John O Dwyer, John Whelan, Billy O Sullivan. Subs: Dermot Griffin for J. Whelan, Maurice O Shea for S. Fenton (inj.), Richard O Connor, Joe Hoare, Christopher Foley.

Ref: John Joe Ladden (Castlemaine).

 

Rd. 3 on Tues. 31^st May at Keel: Keel B 1-6; Laune Rangers B 5-8.

Tommy Woods played great football. Sean Fenton played very well also. Billy O Sullivan scored 2-2.

Laune Rangers: Tony Foley, Mark O Sullivan, Declan Crowley, Tommy Woods, Pat Pigott, Jerry Foley, John F. O Brien, Martin Clifford, Sean Fenton, Donal Pigott, Pa Foley, Dermot Griffin, John O Dwyer, Mossy Joy, Billy O Sullivan. Subs: Brendan Corkery for P. Pigott (inj.), Edward Stack for D. Pigott, Anthony O Sullivan, Maurice O Shea, Joe Hoare.

Ref: Kieran Breen (Beaufort).

 

Final on Tues. 14^th June at Milltown: Milltown/Castlemaine B v Laune Rangers B.

Laune Rangers travelled but Milltown/Castlemaine did not have a team. The Chairman of the Mid-Kerry Board, Michael McCarthy, presented the trophy to the Laune Rangers captain, Martin Clifford. At  the Laune Rangers’ Club meeting, a request from the Chairman of the Mid-Kerry Board to replay the final was referred to the ‘B’ team management and players.

 

Mid-Kerry Novice Championship

 

Thiatwas a knockout competition. Laune Rangers’ players who had played in the Co. Senior Football Championship in 1988 were ineligible to play in that competition. All the other clubs could play their strongest teams.

 

Rd. 1 on Sun. 31^st July at Glenbeigh: Laune Rangers 1-9; Keel 1-1.

Laune Rangers: Liam Foley, Mark O Sullivan, Owen Mangan, Pat Pigott, Jerry Foley, Bertie O Riordan, John F. O Brien, Michael Moriarty, Tommy Byrne, Brian O Sullivan, Sean Fenton, Danny Cahill, John O Dwyer, John Evans, Francis Brennan.

Ref: Kieran Breen (Beaufort).

 

Semi-final on Sun. 28^th Aug. at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 1-6; Milltown/Castlemaine 1-9.

Laune Rangers: Liam Foley, Mark O Sullivan, John Evans, Pat Pigott, Jerry Foley, Bertie O Riordan, John F. O Brien, Michael Moriarty, Sean Fenton, Brian O Sullivan, Pa Foley, Francis Brennan, John O Dwyer, Peter Lyons, Billy O Sullivan.

Ref: Michael O Sullivan (Glenbeigh).

Laune Rangers Seven-a-side Centenary Tournament

 

Mon. 1^st Aug.  at the J.P. O Sullivan Park, Killorglin at 1.00pm.

The competition was jointly sponsored by Killorglin Credit Union and Quirke Sand and Gravel Company. Originally 16 teams had confirmed in writing that they would be participating. Glenbeigh/Glencar wrote on Wed. 27^th July that, due to their involvement in the Mid-Kerry Senior Championship semi-final on Wed. 3^rd Aug, they would be unable to participate. Keel rang on Sunday evening, advising that they could not attend. Beaufort and Listowel rang at 10.00pm and 10.15pm on Sunday night advising that they would not be travelling. Dr. Croke’s rang at 1.15pm on Monday, saying that would not be travelling. Neither Sneem nor Listry showed on the day and made no contact with the club. Consequently, the original groupings had to be abandoned and the teams were put into three groups of three teams each, as follows:

Group 1: The Kingdom Club London, John Mitchel’s and Currow.

Group 2: Nemo Rangers, Milltown/Castlemaine and Laune Rangers ‘B’.

Group 3: Laune Rangers ‘A’, Knocknagoshel, Kenmare and Cromane.

Two pitches were used, one from the road goals out for 100m and the other from the lower 45m line to the very end of the field. Michael Murphy (Callanfercy), Michael Healy (Cromane) and Michael O Reilly (Laune Rangers) acted as referees. John Mitchel’s emerged from group A, Milltown/Castlemaine from group B, while both Kenmare and Laune Rangers ‘A’ came out of group C. In the semi-finals, John Mitchels defeated Milltown/Castlemaine and Laune Rangers overcame Kenmare.

Final: Laune Rangers 8-15; John Mitchels 4-10.

The following awards were given:

Best visiting player – Mick Hannon (Kingdom); Best Kerry player – Tommy O Sullivan (Kenmare);

Best Mid-Kerry player – Mark O Connor (Laune Rangers).

 

Laune Rangers Centenary Tournament (15-aside)

Four teams participated, Valentia, Midleton, Rockchapel and Laune Rangers. (Rockchapel deputised for Avondhu, who had been forced to withdraw). The Lee Strand sponsored tournament was marred by bad weather but there were good attendances on both days.

 

Semi-finals on Sat. 24^th Sept. at Killorglin at 6.00pm: Laune Rangers 2-17; Valentia 0-5.

That game was also a Co. League Div. 1 fixture.

at 7.15pm: Rockchapel 5-5; Midleton 0-4.

Final on Sun. 25^th Sept at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 3-17; Rockchapel 1-5.

Rev. Canon Keane sponsored the magnificent Centenary Trophy. He threw in the ball at the start of the game and he presented the trophy to captain, Pierce Prendiville at the end. Lee Strand (through William Kennedy) sponsored the players’ trophies (Clarenbridge Crystal).

Ref: Pa Mannix (Listry).

 

U-21 Football Co. Championship

Trainer/Selector – James Sheehan. Selectors – Maurice Corkery and Jerome Conway.

 

Rd. 1 on Tues. 30^th Aug. at Kenmare: Kenmare 1-9; Laune Rangers 1-13.

Liam Foley was very good in goals. Bertie O Riordan excelled at fullback and he was ably assisted by Mark O Sullivan. The halfback line was very good, Timmy Fleming dominated at midfield. Paul Griffin scored 4 good points, Francis Brennan played well and both corner forwards played well. Michael Moriarty sprayed the ball around well from full-forward. Sean Fenton improved when he was moved to centre half-forward. That was a good result considering that Rangers were missing Tommy Byrne, William Joy, Danny Cahill, James O Shea and Patie Casey.

Laune Rangers: Liam Foley, Mark O Sullivan, Bertie O Riordan, Richard O Connor, Mark O Connor, Shane O Sullivan (0-1), John F. O Brien, Timmy Fleming (0-2), Sean Fenton (0-2), Paul Griffin (0-4), Pat McKenna, Francis Brennan (0-1), Timmy Corkery (0-1), Michael Moriarty (capt.), Billy O Sullivan (1-2). Sub: Brendan Corkery for P. McKenna.

Ref: Dan O Sullivan (Currow).

 

Quarter-final on Tues. 20^th Sept. at Milltown: Mid-Kerry 1-7; Laune Rangers 3-7.

That was a reasonably good performance against good opposition. Tommy Byrne, Mark O Connor, Danny Cahill and Shane O Sullivan played very well in defence. James O Shea and Timmy Fleming played well at midfield. Pat McKenna was the best of the forwards, though they all contributed. Patie Casey scored two goals and Timmy Fleming scored a goal from a penalty kick.

Laune Rangers: Liam Foley, Bertie O Riordan, Tommy Byrne, William Joy, Mark O Connor, Danny Cahill, Shane O Sullivan, James O Shea, Timmy Fleming, Paul Griffin, Pat McKenna, Patie Casey, Timmy Corkery, Michael Moriarty, Billy O Sullivan. Subs: Mark O Sullivan for W. Joy, John F. O Brien, Owen Mangan, Francis Brennan, Brendan Corkery, Sean Fenton, Richard O Connor.

Ref: Con Murphy (Tralee).

 

Semi-final on Sat. 5^th Nov. at Castleisland: Laune Rangers 1-10; Feale Rangers 0-7.

That was an impressive victory against a much-fancied Feale Rangers outfit, played before a small attendance in wintry conditions, with the final quarter played in a torrential downpour. Rangers won because they were the slicker and more industrious outfit. They played as a team, whereas Feale Rangers were disorganised. The opening quarter saw the North-Kerry side well on top. Eamonn Breen won plentiful possession but the attack, with the exception of Stephen Carrig, made little headway against a confident Rangers’ defence with Tommy Byrne, Mark O Connor, Danny Cahill and Shane O Sullivan outstanding.

The game itself was a scrappy enough affair with Laune Rangers producing the better passages of football. Timmy Corkery opened the scoring for the Laune boys. Feale Rangers, however, through Breen’s leadership and the accurate boot of Carrig, scored three points without reply (Carrig, two from frees, and John Leahy being the scorers). What ensued after that saw Laune Rangers playing with more cohesion in attack and Timmy Fleming blotting out Breen’s early dominance. They went about building up a commanding lead, while Feale Rangers’ challenge faded out. Points from Patie Casey, Mike Moriarty, James O Shea and Billy O Sullivan and two from dead-ball situations by Timmy Fleming, one a 45, sent Laune Rangers in leading by 0-7 to 0-3 at halftime.

On the changeover, Feale Rangers had breeze advantage, but it was the Killorglin boys that set the pace. Every time they got possession the forwards made space, moving out first time to meet the ball and then playing it wide. Points by Patie Casey and a splendid 45 by Timmy Fleming put six points between the sides (0-9 to 0-3). With the rain pouring down, Feale Rangers, the more physical outfit, came storming into the game. A point-blank save by the North-Kerry side’s goalkeeper, Michael Broderick, from Michael Moriarty was the inspiration the Feale side needed to lift their game. They scored their first point of the half after 15 minutes, again from Stephen Carrig. Incidentally, that was the North-Kerry side’s first score in 37 minutes. However, they did not go down without a fight. They played their best football of the hour and had Laune Rangers worried. They tacked on further point from Pascal Sweeney (2) and Maurice Hennessy, free, to narrow the gap to two points (0-9 to 0-7) with eight minutes left on the clock. Laune Rangers were living dangerously. The woodwork came to their rescue with shots from Stephen Carrig and a great kick from a 45 by Eamonn Breen, coming back off the crossbar before being cleared to safety. In a quick breakaway Laune Rangers’ Billy O Sullivan blazed wide across the face of the goals. Timmy Fleming, from a free, put a goal between the sides with the minutes ticking away. Laune Rangers had weathered the storm. Timmy Corkery sent a dipping shot to the net to confirm that Laune Rangers were worthy winners.

The team had the right blend of experienced seniors and star minors, with Tommy Byrne a most versatile member. Over the previous two years he had performed excellently at midfield for the minors, full-forward for the seniors and in that game at fullback, where he was just brilliant.

Laune Rangers: Fergus O Meara, William Joy, Tommy Byrne, Mark O Sullivan, Mark O Connor, Danny Cahill, Shane O Sullivan, Timmy Fleming (0-4, 2 frees and 2 from 45s), James O Shea (0-1), Francis Brennan, Pat McKenna, Patie Casey (0-2), Timmy Corkery (1-1), Michael Moriarty (0-1), Billy O Sullivan (0-1). Subs: Liam Foley, Francis Brennan, Sean Fenton, Brendan Corkery, Owen Mangan.

Feale Rangers: Michael Broderick (Moyvane), Peter Lenihan (Finuge), Sean Walsh (St. Senan’s), Pat Shanahan (Duagh), Mike Keane (St. Senan’s), Stephen Sheehy (Duagh), Eamonn Whelan (St. Senan’s), Eamonn Breen (Finuge), Eamonn Stack (Moyvane), Maurice Hennessy (Tarbert) 0-1, Johnny O Joy (Finuge), John Leahy (Moyvane) 0-1, Stephen Carrig (Tarbert) 0-3, 2 frees, Mike Dalton (Clounmacon), Pascal Sweeney (Moyvane) 0-2, frees. Sub: Con Carmody for P. Shanahan (inj.).

Ref: Dan O Sullivan (Currow).

 

Final on Sun. 27^th Nov. at Austin Stack Park, Tralee: South-Kerry 2-9; Laune Rangers 3-5.

Eamonn Horan in the Kerryman reported, “If ever a game of this magnitude didn’t deserve to have a loser, then this was a perfect case in point. As it transpired, South-Kerry snatched victory from the jaws of defeat but, in so doing, they stole a march on a luckless Laune Rangers fifteen, who at least deserved a share of the spoils. If anything, Laune Rangers should have been celebrating at the end of an hour’s football, which was brimful of fast, exciting and oft-times pulsating fare. They will look back on this final as a game they should have won. But, on reflection, they would have to admit that they were their own worst enemies in that they failed to consolidate their advantage in the course of a second half, which saw them absorb the best efforts of their gallant rivals.

This certainly was a game that enhanced the flagging name of Kerry football. It was played throughout at a fast and furious pace but, though exchanges were tough and uncompromising, despite the intensity of the rivalry, the standard of sportsmanship was exemplary at all times. The sides were very evenly matched and, even though Laune Rangers were the pace-setters more often than not, there was scarcely more than a kick of the ball between them. It is often claimed that games are won and lost at midfield but in this particular instance such a claim could not be made, such was the see-saw battle that was waged on the halfway line. County U-21 team-mates Maurice Fitzgerald and Timmy Fleming were marking each other and what an absorbing duel they provided! Both men played superb football and, at different times during the hour, both of them exhibited rare skills and ball control. Timmy Fleming showed in this game that he has a Trojan heart. His commitment was total and he imbued his team-mates with a spirit and confidence, which was contagious. Likewise, Fitzgerald once again demonstrated his great array of natural ball skills and it was only right and fitting that it was left to the Cahersiveen sharp-shooter to pluck victory from the jaws of defeat with a fine match-winning point in the last minute of the game.

Similarly, Laune Rangers’ James O Shea and South Kerry’s Francis O Sullivan waged a comparable battle of wits at midfield and here again the battle for supremacy ebbed and flowed with every passing minute. Indeed, such was the relentlessness of both men’s efforts that it restored one’s belief in the future of Kerry football. There just has to be tons of natural football talent in the county. All it needs is an outlet and the barren days may not be long-lasting as some people would have us believe.

South-Kerry came into this final with quite a reputation but it was Laune Rangers who set the pace early on. They punished a porous South-Kerry fullback line with dynamic goals in the 5^th and 15^th minutes. Team captain Michael Moriarty had the Rangers fans roaring with delight inside five minutes. Billy O Sullivan had a block-buster of a shot saved brilliantly by goalkeeper Kieran Moran but there was full-forward Moriarty to belt the ball home. That was a great morale-booster for Laune Rangers.

But all credit to the winners for the manner in which they fought back just when it seemed that the cup of victory had passed them by. South-Kerry were level by the 13^th minute and, after the losers had gone a point ahead again, Frank Hussey had the sides level again with a 15^th minute point. But the Killorglin men struck again with a vengeance straight away. A lightning break saw Michael Moriarty lay on a chance for Paul Griffin and the diminutive attacker grabbed his golden opportunity to slam the ball to the net.

Fitzgerald and Fleming exchanged points (2-2 to 0-5). But the game took a dramatic turning in the dying seconds of the half when South-Kerry were awarded a free about 35 yards out towards the left sideline. Maurice Fitzgerald floated a well-directed kick goal-wards and, in a blurring moment of total confusion, the losers’ backs and goalkeeper were deceived by the flight of the ball and it finished up in the net, much to the consternation of the Laune Rangers’ players and supporters. That freakish goal turned out to be a crucial one for South-Kerry. It suddenly brought them back on par with their rivals at a time when they appeared to be flagging. Conversely, it rocked the Killorglin side back on their heels at a time when they seemed to be getting on top.

The second half again produced some marvellous bouts of football with both sides giving it everything. Fitzgerald put South-Kerry a point up inside two minutes of the restart before mustard-keen Paul Griffin levelled matters in the 35^th minute. Griffin put Laune Rangers in front again with a point in the 40^th minute. Eleven minutes into the second half South-Kerry launched a scorching attack. The ball was won by centre half-forward Tom Walsh and the Waterville man soloed his way through the defence before unleashing a blinding shot at goal. But goalkeeper, Fergus O Meara, effected a tremendous save from point blank range. However, South-Kerry maintained the pressure and, a little over a minute later, they struck with a vengeance. Carl O Dwyer had a rasping shot stopped by Fergus O Meara and, following a scramble in front of the goalmouth, Peter Keane was there to finish the ball to the net.

But Laune Rangers were nothing if not full of resistance. A little over a minute later they mounted a powerful offensive and, when James O Shea put Paul Griffin in possession, the corner-forward weaved a silken pathway goal-wards only to be upended by goalkeeper Moran. The referee had no hesitation in awarding a penalty. In the process, Griffin was injured and had to be attended to for about a minute. The spot kick was taken by right halfback Mark O Connor and he coolly tucked the ball past the diving Moran. Stout-hearted Laune Rangers, bidding to add the U-21 title to the minor crown, had retaken the lead (3-4 to 2-6) and they must have scented victory at this stage in the proceedings.

However, South-Kerry had other ideas. Five minutes later, they worked the ball up the field and, when Carl O Dwyer found Frank Hussey with a timely pass, the full-forward outwitted Tommy Byrne to grab a point and tie the scores again. Laune Rangers were still playing with considerable dash and, time and again, they brought play into their opponents’ half of the field. But, unfortunately for them, they nullified a lot of good outfield work by kicking the ball aimlessly into the hands of the winners’ halfbacks.

Apart from the ever-active Paul Griffin, the losers’ attack lacked thrust and penetration for periods in the second half and, as events transpired, Laune Rangers paid dearly for this ineptitude in the end. Pat McKenna, James O Shea and Paul Griffin set an attack in motion in the 52^nd minute and, when the ball came to Michael Moriarty, he quickly found Griffin with a well-timed pass and the latter whipped over a lovely point to regain the lead for the Killorglin side. It was thrilling stuff in the closing minutes as Laune Rangers tried to hold their ground and South-Kerry endeavoured to find new reserves of stamina in an effort to pull the game out of the fire. It was to their eternal credit that they did just that.

With two minutes remaining of actual time, South-Kerry launched an attack. Francis O Sullivan, who was having a great game in the middle of the field, found Peter Keane with a timely pass and the corner-forward burrowed his way in from the left corner to pop over a beautiful levelling point. Then, in the 60^th minute, Keane again became the tormentor of Laune Rangers when he carved out a lovely opening for Maurice Fitzgerald to pick off a peach of a point, which proved to be the match-winner. South-Kerry could scarcely believe their good fortune at the final whistle. I thought referee, Michael O Sullivan, wasn’t over-generous to Laune Rangers in the circumstances. South-Kerry had come back from the brink of defeat to snatch a glorious victory and thereby retain their title. But, that said, it has to be stated that Laune Rangers were hard done by in the end. As Kerry team manager, Mick O Dwyer, said afterwards, a draw would have been a fairer result. Laune Rangers had their most prominent performers in Fergus O Meara, in goal, Tommy Byrne, William Joy, Mark O Connor and Shane O Sullivan in defence, Timmy Fleming and James O Shea at midfield and Paul Griffin, Michael Moriarty, Pat McKenna and Billy O Sullivan in attack.”

Laune Rangers had seven minors on the panel, Tommy Byrne, Danny Cahill, Timmy Corkery, Billy O Sullivan, Francis Brennan, Brendan Corkery and Sean Fenton.

Laune Rangers: Fergus O Meara, Bertie O Riordan, Tommy Byrne, William Joy, Mark O Connor (1-0, pen.), Danny Cahill, Shane O Sullivan, Timmy Fleming (0-1), James O Shea, Timmy Corkery, Pat McKenna, Patie Casey, Paul Griffin (1-3), Michael Moriarty (capt.) 1-1, Billy O Sullivan. Subs: Liam Foley, Francis Brennan, Sean Fenton, Owen Mangan, Brendan Corkery.

South-Kerry: Kieran Moran (Derrynane), Dermot Clifford (do.), Paddy O Dwyer (Waterville), Liam Burns (Sneem), P. J. Casey (St. Mary’s), Robbie O Dwyer (Waterville), John Cronin (do.), Maurice Fitzgerald (St. Mary’s) 1-4, 2 frees, Francis O Sullivan (Derrynane), Michael Gallagher (Valentia) capt. 0-1, Tom Walsh (Waterville), Carl O Dwyer (do.) 0-1, J.J. Coffey (St. Mary’s), Frank Hussey (Sneem) 0-2, Peter Keane (St. Mary’s) 1-1. Subs: Michael O Dwyer (Waterville) for P.J. Casey, Sean O Sullivan (Sneem) for J.J. Coffey.

Ref: Michael O Sullivan (Ballymacelligott).

Co. Minor Football Championship

Trainer/selector – John Evans. Selectors – Maurice Corkery and Jerome Conway.

 

Rd. 1 on Tues. 5^th July at Ardfert: St. Brendan’s 0-9; Laune Rangers 0-9.

Rangers did not really play well at all. Tommy Byrne was great. Owen Joy, Brian Mangan, Mark O Sullivan, Brian O Keeffe and Billy O Shea played well. Danny Cahill was tired, having played great stuff in the Munster Minor Final on the previous Sunday.

Laune Rangers: Gerard Clifford, John O Donnell, Brian O Keeffe, Brendan Corkery, Owen Joy, Mark O Sullivan (capt.), Billy O Shea, Tommy Byrne, Danny Cahill, Timmy Corkery, Francis Brennan, Timmy Linehan, Michael Lynch, Brian Mangan, Billy O Sullivan. Subs: Bernard O Sullivan for T. Linehan (inj.), Timmy Linehan for B. O Sullivan, Michael Corkery, Owen Corkery. Sean Fenton, Pa Murphy and Patrick Costello were injured and unable to play.

Ref: Michael Sweeney (Ballymacelligott).

 

Replay on Tues. 12^th July at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 2-10; St. Brendan’s 0-3.

After a tentative enough first half, after which they led by 0-3 to 0-1, Rangers played really well in the second half. The halfback line of Owen Joy, Danny Cahill and Billy O Shea were excellent. Michael Lynch played very well and Billy O Sullivan scored 1-5, 2 frees. Tommy Byrne played great football and stuck the penalty in the net with great authority.

Laune Rangers: Gerard Clifford, John O Donnell, Brian O Keeffe, Brendan Corkery (capt.), Owen Joy, Danny Cahill, Billy O Shea, Tommy Byrne, John Doona, Timmy Corkery, Francis Brennan, Timmy Linehan, Michael Lynch, Brian Mangan, Billy O Sullivan. Subs: Sean Fenton (late arrival) for John Doona, Bernard O Sullivan for T. Linehan, Michael Corkery, Owen Corkery. Mark O Sullivan did not show up for the game. Apparently, he had gone to Kildare without having told anybody in charge of the team.

Ref: Michael Sweeney (Ballymacelligott) – good.

 

Quarter-final on Tues. 19^th July at Ballybunion: Beale 0-3; Laune Rangers 8-19.

That was a great performance from Laune Rangers even if the opposition was weak. Billy O Sullivan scored 4-6, Francis Brennan scored 1-5, while Timmy Linehan, Michael Lynch and Bernard O Sullivan scored the other goals.

Laune Rangers: Mark O Sullivan, John O Donnell, Brian O Keeffe, Brendan Corkery, Owen Joy, Danny Cahill, Billy O Shea, Sean Fenton, Tommy Byrne, Timmy Corkery, Brian Mangan, Timmy Linehan, Michael Lynch, Francis Brennan, Billy O Sullivan. Subs: Owen Corkery for B. O Shea, Pa Murphy for Owen Joy (Pa went into goals and Mark O Sullivan went to right halfback), Bernard O Sullivan for M. Lynch, John Doona.

Ref: Mick Galwey (Currow).

 

Semi-final on Sun. 21^st Aug. at Austin Stack Park: Laune Rangers 1-11; Shannon Rangers 0-6.

Laune Rangers turned in a storming second half to win that game very easily in the end, after tailing 0-5 to 0-2 at the interval. During the opening half, Shannon Rangers were by far the superior team. They played the better football and scored some very good points. Laune Rangers only reply was a Francis Brennan point and a point from a 13m free by Billy O Sullivan.

The second half saw Billy O Shea on for the Laune Rangers boys. He got their third point. Francis Brennan narrowed the gap to a point after ten minutes. Eamonn Hennessy scored a lovely point for Shannon Rangers to leave them ahead by 0-6 to 0-4. The turning point came as the game entered the final quarter, when Billy O Sullivan was on hand to shoot home the only goal of the game from a breaking ball. That put the champions in front for the first time in the game. They went on to score another seven points without reply, Francis Brennan (2), Billy O Shea (2), Sean Fenton, Michael Lynch and Billy O Sullivan doing the honours, as they ran out easy winners. Shannon Rangers did not deserve to loose by that margin. They played excellent football and were shaping up as likely winners until Billy O Sullivan’s goal. They never recovered from that killer blow, while it was the incentive to lift Laune Rangers to find their true form.

All the backs played well for Laune Rangers, especially Brian O Keeffe, Danny Cahill and Mark O Sullivan. Tommy Byrne excelled at midfield. Michael Lynch, Frankie Brennan (0-4) and Billy O Shea, when he came on, played well, also. Billy O Sullivan did little but yet scored 1-2.

Laune Rangers: Owen Joy, John O Donnell, Brian O Keeffe, Brendan Corkery, Mark O Sullivan, Danny Cahill, Pa Murphy, Tommy Byrne, Sean Fenton, Timmy Corkery, Brian Mangan, Timmy Linehan, Michael Lynch, Frankie Brennan, Billy O Sullivan. Subs: Billy O Shea for T. Linehan, Owen Corkery, John Doona, Gerard Clifford, Jason Griffin, Billy Dermody.

Shannon Rangers: Declan Whelan (Ballyduff), Declan O Connor (Ballydonoghue), Tommy Kennedy (Ballylongford), David Gunn (Ballydonoghue), George Dee (do.), T.J. O Connor (Ballyduff), John Enright (do.), Paul O Donoghue (Ballylongford), Tommy O Sullivan (Ballyduff), Maurice O Connor (do.), Paul Donegan (do.), William O Donnell (Ballydonoghue), Mike Heaphy (Ballylongford), Pat Kelly (Emmetts), Eamonn Hennessy (Ballylongford).

Ref: Denis Reidy (Ballymacelligott).

 

Final on Sat. 1^st Oct. at Castleisland: Laune Rangers 1-8; Austin Stack’s 2-5.

Rangers left the game slip from their grasp. Austin Stack’s scored the first two points before the Killorglin boys had settled. They created great space by running off the ball. Billy O Sullivan scored two points and a great goal. His speed and class and his ability to lay off the ball were the difference between the sides in that period. His goal was a particularly fine effort. Stack’s corner back, Niall Barrett fluffed a free and it was picked up by Eoin Joy, who put through a centre to Billy O Sullivan. The Kerry minor star turned inside his man, while the ball was still hopping, and scooped it past the goalkeeper. That score proved to be the stamp of authority Laune Rangers needed to take control of the exchanges and they dominated the remainder of the half. Michael Lynch and Timmy Corkery added two more points and the Rangers were well on top, with Tommy Byrne shining at midfield. Then disaster struck. Firstly Laune Rangers goalkeeper, Gerard Clifford, should have come off his line to clear a harmless through ball. John O Donnell’s attempted clearance was blocked illegally with a foot (which the referee ignored or did not see), Mark O Sullivan tried to jab the wet ball up to the hand but was dispossessed and the high kick from about forty yards out went over the goalkeeper’s head into the net (Shades of the U-16 semi-final two years previously). Rangers led at halftime by 1-5 to 1-2.

On the resumption, Rangers continued to dominate at midfield. Pa Murphy, Mark O Sullivan, Brian O Keeffe and John O Donnell excelled in defence. Timmy Corkery played a great game and stretched the winners’ lead with a good point (he had struck the crossbar with a shot in the first half). Frankie Brennan was very much off form (it was discovered afterwards that he had an accident during the day and he was a bit shook-up). Owen Joy played well. Michael Lynch, after a good first half, faded. Tommy Byrne got a knock on the thigh and was less effective thereafter. Billy O Sullivan scored two points but Stack’s replied with two similar scores. With two minutes left to play, Rangers led by three points. Then, a high cross from the right seemed to have been covered by Brendan Corkery on the goal-line but the goalkeeper seemed to knock the ball out of his hands into the net. Rangers were very disappointed with the result but very determined for the replay.

Laune Rangers: Gerard Clifford, John O Donnell, Brian O Keeffe, Brendan Corkery (capt.), Mark O Sullivan, Danny Cahill, Pa Murphy, Tommy Byrne, Sean Fenton, Timmy Corkery (0-1), Francis Brennan, Brian Mangan, Michael Lynch (0-3), Billy O Sullivan (1-4), Owen Joy. Subs: Billy O Shea for F. Brennan, Timmy Linehan, Owen Corkery, John Doona, Bernard O Sullivan, Jason Griffin, Billy Dermody, Pat Costello.

Austin Stacks: Brendan Buckley, Niall Barrett, Billy O Lehane, Paul Kelliher, Dermot O Donnell, Kieran Browne, Christy Flaherty, Joe Smith (0-1), Donal Sugrue (0-1), Pa Laide (0-1), John Harrington, David Kearns, Micko Horan (1-2), Michael Lynch (1-0), Gearoid Kilgallen. Subs: Brendan Dillane for P. Kelliher, Sean Field for N. Barrett, Brendan Murphy for J. Smith.

Ref: Denis Reidy (Ballymacelligott).

 

Replay on Sun. 23^rd Oct. at Austin Stack Park: Laune Rangers 1-12; Austin Stack’s 1-5.

Tommy Conroy reported in the Kerry’s Eye as follows, “The good-sized crowd that turned up on a very overcast evening, expecting a close encounter, went away very disappointed. Laune Rangers, the holders, ran out the easiest of winners of a game in which they were the superior and more eager team.

Conditions underfoot were very heavy and sticky. Laune Rangers adapted much better to the going. They were stronger on the ball, won plenty of possession throughout the hour and, as a team, left no doubt about their ability to find the man, with some splendid combination, which tore Stacks’ defence to pieces. This was a confident Rangers’ victory. Their defence, despite one lapse, which left Stacks in for their early goal, was magnificent throughout. Danny Cahill, at fullback, Brendan Corkery at left fullback – what great covering he did! – and Mark O Sullivan at No. 6, a towering figure. They kept Stacks’ attack well held and, on the few occasions Stacks’ forwards did get clear, they came up against an alert and agile goalkeeper in Billy O Shea. One particular diving save from close-in at the start of the second half was the kind of confidence to inspire Laune Rangers on to a classy victory. Tommy Byrne and Sean Fenton held sway at midfield for Rangers. Byrne got through an amount of work. He popped up all over the field, even back in his own goalmouth. The winners’ attack was spearheaded by the wily Billy O Sullivan at full-forward, Francis Brennan on the 40 and Timmy Linehan and Michael Lynch, two dangerous corner-men.

Stacks had not the same qualities to offer. On the day they played poorly. They could never get their game together. They lacked the same cohesion and teamwork as the Killorglin boys. They laboured in many positions. The defence, especially the halfback line, was well beaten, while the attack failed dismally as a unit. Stacks can have no excuses. Rangers were in a different class. They left no doubt that they were worthy Champions of Kerry Minor Football for the second year-in-a-row.

The winners had the opening point after three minutes from the left boot of Billy O Sullivan. Austin Stacks, in their first real attack, had a dream start when Gearoid Kilgallon ran on to a through ball from David Kearns to send a scorching shot, left-legged, to the back of the Rangers’ net for a peach of a goal. Pa Laide pointed from a 13m free immediately afterwards to leave the teams, Austin Stacks 1-1, Laune Rangers 0-1 after 7 minutes play. Stacks held their three points advantage, as both teams had two points each, Tim Linehan and Billy O Sullivan from play for Rangers, Michael Lynch and Pa Laide for Stacks. The goal still divided the sides as the game entered the second quarter. Laune Rangers took control of proceedings right up to the halftime whistle. They scored four good points from Tim Linehan, Billy O Sullivan (free) and Michael Lynch (2, one from a free) to go in leading 0-7 to 1-3 at the break.

Stacks pressed hard at the restart. Billy O Shea tipped a goal-bound shot, one-handed, around the posts in the Rangers’ goals. Stacks’ Michael Lynch saw his shot for a point hit the upright and go wide. Billy O Sullivan again opened the second half scoring from a 13m free. Joe Smith had Stacks’ first point in over 20 minutes play. Still, it was anyone’s game, only one point dividing them, 0-8 to 1-4, Rangers in front, only six minutes into the half. Laune Rangers stepped up a gear. They played possession football, spraying passes all over the pitch and using the wings. Michael Lynch finished one of these moves with a point. Billy O Sullivan punished a Stacks’ defender for picking the ball off the ground, by pointing the resultant free, putting three points between them. Whatever hopes Stacks had of making a comeback were dashed with the next bout of action. Rangers centre half-forward, Francis Brennan, was hauled down going through for a goal shot. A penalty kick it was. Midfielder, Tommy Byrne, crashed an unstoppable bullet of a kick past Brendan Buckley in the Stacks’ goals for a mighty goal, 1-10 to 1-4, still 17 minutes to play. Such was the confident football of Rangers, there was no way Stacks could get within striking distance, try hard and all as they did. Rangers’ defence was well on their game as Stacks’ inept attack could only register one more point from Michael Lynch. Long before the final whistle, the result was a formality. Rangers delighted their big following by adding two further points from Francis Brennan and Michael Lynch. The final ten minutes were scoreless as the cup was well on its way over the Laune.”

James Coffey, in the Killorglin Notes in the Kerryman, wrote, “Laune Rangers retained their Co. Minor Football Championship title in great style when they defeated Austin Stacks in the replayed final at Tralee. After a shaky start, they played good open football and led at the break by 0-7 to 1-3. The issue looked open enough for the opening ten minutes of the second half, but after a great save by Billy O Shea, the Rangers began to add vital scores and a great penalty-kick by man-of-the-match, Tommy Byrne, put paid to any hope of a Stacks’ revival. The win was the result of wonderful teamwork, a well-selected team and the side were superbly fit, thanks to trainer, John Evans. No doubt but young Billy O Shea, son of former Laune Rangers and Mid-Kerry star who won a Co. Minor Championship medal with Mid-Kerry in 1960, must be a close rival to Tommy for man-of-the-match. He brought off at least three saves, which were out of the top drawer and the saves were executed at vital times in both halves. So Laune Rangers completed the minor double in Centenary year. They won the Co. League in May. They have now played in three championship and league finals in a row, wining two of each. Not a bad record at all!”

Laune Rangers: Billy O Shea, John O Donnell, Danny Cahill, Brendan Corkery (capt.), Owen Joy, Mark O Sullivan, Pa Murphy, Tommy Byrne (1-0, penalty), Sean Fenton, Timmy Corkery, Francis Brennan (0-1), Brian Mangan, Michael Lynch (0-4, 1 free), Billy O Sullivan (0-5, 3 frees), Timmy Linehan (0-2). Subs: John Doona for M. Lynch (inj.), Owen Corkery, Bernard O Sullivan, Jason Griffin, Billy Dermody, Gerard Clifford. Brian O Keeffe was injured and unable to play. Billy O Shea, Michael Lynch, Owen Joy, Owen Corkery and John Doona were U-16.

Austin Stacks: Brendan Buckley, Niall Barrett, Billy O Lehane, Sean Field, Brendan Dillane, Christy Flaherty (capt.), Kieran Browne, Joe Smith (0-1), Donal Sugrue, John Harrington, Pa Laide (0-2, 1 free), Michael Lynch (0-2, 1 free), Micko Horan, David Kearns, Gearoid Kilgallon (1-0). Subs: Dermot O Donnell for B. Dillane, Benny Murphy for M. Horan.

Ref: Denis Reidy (Ballymacelligott).

Co. Minor Football League

Trainer – Jerome Conway.

 

Rd. 1 on Thurs. 17^th March at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 3-9; Kerins O Rahilly’s 3-3.

That was a very strange game. It rained continually throughout but there was no breeze. In the first half, Rangers played terribly badly, conceding two very easy goals and were in arrears by 2-3 to 0-1 at halftime. On the resumption, Brian Mangan was introduced at full-forward, Timmy Linehan went to wing forward, Frankie Brennan went to midfield in an exchange with Danny Cahill who was very tired after the previous day’s exertions. Timmy Corkery went to halfback in an exchange with Pat Costello. Those switches paid dividends, although on the resumption Kerins O Rahillys scored another goal. From then to the end, Rangers dominated completely with Timmy Corkery, Mark O Sullivan and Tommy Byrne excelling. Owen Joy scored two goals and Tommy Byrne scored the other directly from a 40m free. Frankie Brennan, Timmy Linehan and Billy O Sullivan played very well. Danny Cahill improved when moved to the 40. Brendan Corkery played very well, particularly in the first half and Pa Murphy also played well. Rangers showed great spirit in recovering from that deficit.

Laune Rangers: Gerard Clifford, John O Donnell, Brian O Keeffe, Brendan Corkery, Pat Costello, Mark O Sullivan, Pa Murphy, Tommy Byrne (1-0, free), Danny Cahill (0-2), Owen Joy (2-1), Frankie Brennan (0-1), Bernard O Sullivan, Timmy Corkery, Timmy Linehan, Billy O Sullivan (0-3). Subs: Brian Mangan (0-2) for Bernard O Sullivan, Sean Moriarty for P. Costello.

Ref: Richard Fitzgerald (Listry).

 

Rd. 2 on Fri. 1^st April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers w/o from John Mitchel’s.

John Mitchel’s failed to show up for the game without explanation.

 

Rd. 3 on Fri. 8^th April at Connolly Park: Austin Stack’s 2-6; Laune Rangers 2-7.

Rangers played very, very well in the first half against the wind and led at halftime by 2-4 to 0-2. They seemed to have lost their way in the second half. With time running out and the scores level, Rangers were awarded a free and Billy O Sullivan pointed to win the game. Tommy Byrne had a great game in the middle of the field. All the backs played well. Gerard Clifford was good in goals. The forwards played well at times but ran out of stream.

Laune Rangers: Gerard Clifford, John O Donnell, Brian O Keeffe, Brendan Corkery, Timmy Corkery, Mark O Sullivan, Michael Corkery, Tommy Byrne, Francis Brennan, Owen Joy (0-1), Danny Cahill (0-1), Timmy Linehan, Michael Lynch, Brian Mangan (0-1), Billy O Sullivan (2-4). Subs: Patrick Costello, Bernard O Sullivan, Sean Moriarty, Owen Corkery. Sean Fenton was injured and unable to play. Pa Murphy had broken one of his legs while playing basketball.

Ref: Dan O Sullivan (Currow).

 

Rd. 4 on Fri. 15^th April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers w/o from Dingle/Lispole.

Dingle/Lispole rang to say that they were pulling out of the competition.

 

Rd. 5 on Fri. 22^nd April at Knockreer: Legion 3-6; Laune Rangers 0-8.

Rangers knew coming into that game that they were in the final and if Legion won the game, the final would be between Laune Rangers and Legion. Rangers led by 0-5 to 0-3 at halftime. They led by 0-8 to 0-3 midway through the second half.

Laune Rangers: Gerard Clifford, Owen Corkery, Brian O Keeffe, Brendan Corkery, Pat Costello, Mark O Sullivan, Michael Corkery, Tommy Byrne, Danny Cahill, Timmy Corkery, Billy O Sullivan, Timmy Linehan, Michael Lynch, Brian Mangan, Bernard O Sullivan. Sub: Sean Moriarty – played. Quite a number of Rangers’ players were missing through injury – Sean Fenton, John O Donnell, Francis Brennan and Owen Joy.

Ref: Dan O Sullivan (Currow).

 

Final on Fri. 6^th May at Beaufort: Laune Rangers 3-9; Legion 1-11 (AET).

Laune Rangers were the favourites going into that game. Legion, playing with the aid of a strong breeze in the first half, settled early and picked off some good points. Good defensive work by Brendan Corkery and Timmy Corkery kept Rangers in the game. The attack showed little penetration though Billy O Sullivan did miss a chance of a goal. Legion led at the break by 0-7 to 0-2.

Rangers began the second half more positively. Tommy Byrne and Danny Cahill settled better at midfield and Mark O Sullivan had a great game. Francis Brennan began to come into the game and Rangers whittled away at Legion’s lead. Billy O Sullivan looked dangerous when he got the ball. Timmy Corkery played his heart out and it was fitting that it was he who should score the equalising point with two minutes left to play. Then, Rangers were awarded a penalty kick with one minute to go. Billy O Sullivan, though instructed to take his point, went for a goal and blazed the ball wide. (He said afterwards that he had not heard the instruction!) The teams were level at fulltime – Legion 0-10; Laune Rangers 1-7. Brian Mangan had scored the goal and he had played reasonably well.

In the first period of extra time, against the breeze, Rangers won the game. Tommy Byrne scored a great goal and then pointed a free. Billy O Sullivan scored a gem of a goal to give the winners a seven points’ lead at halftime. Rangers’ fitness then proved decisive and, though they owned the ball, they had many wides. John O Donnell, Owen Joy, Mark O Sullivan, Brian O Keeffe, Brendan Corkery, Sean Fenton, Tommy Byrne and Danny Cahill played well. Timmy Corkery had an outstanding game. Frankie Brennan and Billy O Sullivan were the pick of the forwards.

Laune Rangers: Gerard Clifford, John O Donnell, Brian O Keeffe, Brendan Corkery (capt.), Sean Fenton, Mark O Sullivan, Michael Corkery, Tommy Byrne, Danny Cahill, Timmy Corkery, Francis Brennan, Owen Joy, Timmy Linehan, Brian Mangan, Billy O Sullivan. Subs: Michael Lynch for M. Corkery, Owen Corkery, John Doona, Sean Moriarty, Bernard O Sullivan, Pat Costello. Pa Murphy was injured and unable to play.

Legion: Robert O Donoghue, Roland Eager, Peter O Leary (1-0), Eoin O Brien, Jer McGillycuddy, John O Connor, Michael O Callaghan, David O Donoghue, Jer McCarthy (0-2), Andrew Dennehy (0-5), John O Leary (0-2), John Bowler (0-2), Glen Spellman, Tomás Griffin, Seamus Eager. Subs: William O Connor for T. Griffin (inj.), Richard Horgan for R. Eager, Roland Eager for S. Eager, Paul Trant, Tim Doonan.

Ref: Con Murphy (Austin Stack’s).

 

Mid-Kerry Minor Football Championship

 

Laune Rangers were drawn to play Cromane at Cromane on Fri. 22^nd July but Cromane conceded the game.

 

Semi-final on Sat. 8^th Oct. at Milltown: Laune Rangers beat Beaufort.

 

Final on Sun. 29^th Oct. at Milltown: Laune Rangers 4-12; Glenbeigh/Glencar 0-4.

Laune Rangers: Billy O Shea, John O Donnell, Danny Cahill, Brendan Corkery (capt.), John Doona, Mark O Sullivan, Pa Murphy, Tommy Byrne, Sean Fenton, Timmy Corkery, Francis Brennan, Brian Mangan, Michael Lynch, Billy O Sullivan, Bernard O Sullivan. Subs: Owen Corkery for J. O Donnell, Gerard Clifford for B. Mangan, Jason Griffin for M. Lynch, Billy Dermody. Timmy Linehan and Owen Joy were injured and unable to play.

 

Co. U-16 Inter-Divisional Championship

That was a knockout competition. Coach/Selector – Jerome Conway. Selector – Tim Coffey (Beaufort).

 

Rd. 1 on Wed. 3rd Aug: Mid-Kerry w/o; Kenmare scr.

Semi-final on Wed. 17^th Aug. at Na Gaeil Pitch: Mid-Kerry 1-4; North-Kerry 0-4.

Mid-Kerry: Gary McGrath (Beaufort), Owen Corkery (Laune Rangers), Willie Evans (Keel), Adrian Hassett (Laune Rangers), Seamus Evans (Keel), Mícheál Spillane (Beaufort), Billy O Shea (Laune Rangers), John Doona (do.), Kieran O Shea (Beaufort), Michael Lynch (Laune Rangers), Owen Joy (do.), David Lynch (Beaufort), Alan Kerins (Milltown/Castlemaine), Nigel Reidy (Laune Rangers), Vincent O Donoghue (Beaufort). Subs: Timmy O Sullivan (Glenbeigh/Glencar), Michael O Connor (do.), Anthony O Sullivan (Laune Rangers), Michael O Brien (Beaufort). Danny Teahan (Beaufort) was injured and unable to play.

Ref: Michael McSweeney (Ballymac).

 

Final on Wed. 14^th Sept at Fitzgerald Stadium: Mid-Kerry 1-8; Castleisland 1-8.

That was a great game of football. Owen Joy was outstanding at full-forward, scoring 1-4, and at centre halfback. Kieran O Shea was mighty at midfield. Owen Corkery, Willie Evans, Adrian Hassett and Seamus Evans defended well. Diarmuid O Sullivan and Michael Lynch were the pick of the attack and David Lynch scored two great points near the end to equalise.

Mid-Kerry: Gary McGrath, Owen Corkery, Willie Evans, Adrian Hassett, Seamus Evans, Mícheál Spillane, Danny Teahan, John Doona, Kieran O Shea (capt.), Vincent O Donoghue, Diarmuid O Sullivan (Glenbeigh/Glencar), David Lynch, Michael Lynch, Owen Joy, Billy O Shea. Subs: Nigel Reidy for M. Spillane (Owen Joy to centre halfback), Timmy O Sullivan for W. Evans (inj.), Anthony O Sullivan, Alan Kerins, Michael O Brien, Michael Breen (Beaufort).

Ref: Tony Falvey (Firies).

 

Final replay on Wed. 21^st Sept. at Austin Stack Park: Mid-Kerry 2-12; Castleisland 1-11 (AET).

In actual fact, Mid-Kerry should have been ahead by two points at full-time, but the referee said that the teams were level. It was a genuine mistake as he had given the scores at halftime as 1-4 to 0-3 in favour of Mid-Kerry when it should have been 1-5 to 0-2. However, Mid-Kerry played great football in extra time. Nigel Reidy scored a goal. Michael Lynch had already scored 1-4. Billy O Shea scored 0-2, John Doona 0-0-1 and Owen Joy 0-1.

Mid-Kerry: Gary McGrath, Owen Corkery, Timmy O Sullivan, Adrian Hassett, Seamus Evans, Mícheál Spillane, Danny Teahan, John Doona, Kieran O Shea (capt.), Vincent O Donoghue, Diarmuid O Sullivan, David Lynch, Michael Lynch, Owen Joy, Billy O Shea. Subs: Willie Evans for T. O Sullivan, Nigel Reidy for M. Spillane, Alan Kerins for V. O Donoghue, Mícheál Spillane for N. Reidy, Vincent O Donoghue for J. Doona (inj.), Michael O Brien, Michael Breen and Anthony O Sullivan.

Ref: Gerry Gleeson (John Mitchel’s) – good.

Co. U-16 Football Championship

Coach/Trainer – Jerome Conway. That competition was run on a league basis. There were 6 teams in the competition, John Mitchels, Austin Stacks, Currow, Legion, Kerins O Rahilys and Laune Rangers.

 

Rd. 1 on Wed. 29^th June at Strand Road: Kerins O Rahilly’s 4-3; Laune Rangers 0-8.

That was a poor performance by Laune Rangers against opposition that was fitter and faster. Owen Corkery and Anthony O Sullivan played their hearts out in defence. Nigel Reidy played well at midfield but Michael Lynch was the only forward to play well.

Laune Rangers: Tom Fitzgerald, James Hurley, Owen Corkery, Sean O Sullivan, Pat Cahill, Anthony O Sullivan, David O Reilly, John Doona, Nigel Reidy, Michael Lynch, Owen Joy, Jason Griffin, Owen O Sullivan, Billy O Shea, Paudie O Shea. Subs: Carl O Sullivan for O. O Sullivan, Colm Joy for P. O Shea, Rory O Connor, Stephen O Sullivan, Robert Murphy, Noel Conroy. Adrian Hassett was in Cork.

Ref: Michael Fox O Connor (John Mitchel’s).

 

Rd. 2 on Wed. 6^th July at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 6-7; Legion 1-7.

Rangers played much better than in the first game. The defence was rock-solid in the first half and the midfield dominated. The forwards played well but squandered much of the good possession that they were provided with. At halftime, they led by 2-6 to 0-0. Billy O Shea and Nigel Reidy scored the goals.

In the second half, Rangers seemed to run out of steam. They lost the midfield supremacy. Nevertheless, they scored four goals – Billy O Shea (2), Owen O Sullivan and Carl O Sullivan. Jason Griffin was very sound in goals. All the backs played well. John Doona showed a marked improvement and Michael Lynch was razor-sharp. Owen Joy played well, though tired from the previous evening’s Co. Minor Championship game. All the other forwards played well.

Laune Rangers: Jason Griffin, James Hurley, Owen Corkery, Pat Cahill, Anthony O Sullivan, Adrian Hassett, David O Reilly, John Doona (capt.), Owen Joy, Owen O Sullivan, Michael Lynch, Paudie O Shea, Carl O Sullivan, Nigel Reidy, Billy O Shea. Subs: Rory O Connor for P. O Shea, Sean O Sullivan, Colm Joy, Tom Fitzgerald, Stephen O Sullivan, Robert Murphy, Eamonn Kissane.

Ref: Kieran Breen (Beaufort).

 

Rd. 4 on Wed: 20^th July at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 4-10; Austin Stack’s 0-8.

Rangers played great football in the first half. John Doona and Owen Joy completely dominated midfield and the forwards responded splendidly. Nigel Reidy scored a great goal. Carl O Sullivan scored a point and then set Owen O Sullivan up for another goal. Points by Michael Lynch, Nigel Reidy, Owen Joy, John Doona, Owen O Sullivan and Billy O Shea gave them an interval lead of 2-8 to 0-3. It took Rangers ages to score in the second half. Stacks took the initiative and dominated but sterling work by Owen Joy, at fullback, Owen Corkery, centre halfback, Anthony O Sullivan, David O Reilly, Pat Cahill and James Hurley kept the goals intact. Jason Griffin played very safely in goals also. Eventually, in a lightning counter-attack Owen O Sullivan scored a goal. Points by Paudie O Shea and Michael Lynch and a great goal by Nigel Reidy, set up by Michael Lynch, clinched the issue. That was a very good result. James Hurley was sent off for fighting.

Laune Rangers: Jason Griffin, James Hurley, Owen Corkery, Pat Cahill, Rory O Connor, Anthony O Sullivan, David O Reilly, John Doona (0-1), Owen Joy (0-1), Owen O Sullivan (2-1), Michael Lynch (0-2), Paudie O Shea (0-1), Carl O Sullivan (0-2), Nigel Reidy (2-1), Billy O Shea (0-1). Subs: Colm Joy for R. O Connor, Noel Conroy, Sean O Sullivan, Robert Murphy, Tom Fitzgerald, Stephen O Sullivan, Eamonn Kissane.

Michael Murphy (Callanfercy).

 

Rd. 3 on Mon. 25^th July at Mitchels Pitch: John Mitchels 1-6; Laune Rangers 5-8.

John Mitchels played with the aid of a strong wind in the first half but it was Rangers that drew first blood with a point by Rory O Connor and a goal by Owen Joy. Mitchels countered and a weak kick-out by Jason Griffin led to a goal for the home side. John Doona and Owen Joy lorded it at midfield. The halfback line excelled. Paudie O Shea missed a 20m free in front of the goals but made amends shortly afterwards with a good point from play. Michael Lynch pointed to leave Rangers 1-5 to 1-3 adrift at halftime.

Rangers began the second half in whirlwind fashion with goals from Nigel Reidy and Owen O Sullivan. Midfield continued to dominate. Points from Owen Joy, John Doona and Nigel Reidy put Rangers well in command. Sean O Sullivan and Pat Cahill played well in the fullback line. Owen Joy scored a goal and Carl O Sullivan fisted another to put the issue beyond doubt. Michael Lynch and Billy O Shea, with a point each, closed the scoring.

Laune Rangers: Jason Griffin, Sean O Sullivan, Owen Corkery, Pat Cahill, Billy O Shea (0-1), Adrian Hassett, Anthony O Sullivan, John Doona (0-1), Owen Joy (2-1), Owen O Sullivan (1-0), Michael Lynch (0-2), Paudie O Shea (0-1), Carl O Sullivan (1-0), Nigel Reidy (1-1), Rory O Connor (0-1). Subs: Colm Joy for P. O Shea, Noel Conroy, Tom Fitzgerald, Robert Murphy, Eamonn Kissane. David O Reilly was missing because of work and James Hurley was suspended. John O Donnell, minor, travelled to support the team.

 

Rd. 5 on Wed. 27^th July at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 1-9; Currow 1-6.

The Currow team was strong and tenacious and Rangers did not play well at all against them. Currow scored a goal from the throw-in and the home team was left chasing the game for a long time. All the backs played well as did the midfield pairing. Carl O Sullivan, Nigel Reidy and Rory O Connor were the pick of the forwards.

Laune Rangers: Jason Griffin, Sean O Sullivan, Owen Corkery, Pat Cahill, Anthony O Sullivan, Adrian Hassett, Billy O Shea, John Doona, Owen Joy, Owen O Sullivan, Michael Lynch, Paudie O Shea, Carl O Sullivan, Nigel Reidy, Rory O Connor. Subs: Colm Joy for P. O Shea, Tom Fitzgerald, Noel Conroy, Robert Murphy, Stephen O Sullivan, Eamonn Kissane.

 

Semi-final on Mon. 15^th Aug. at Castleisland: Austin Stacks 4-6; Laune Rangers 1-9.

Goalkeeper, Jason Griffin, made two very bad blunders that led to goals. The fullback line played well generally. The halfback line did well, with the exception of David O Reilly, who showed his lack of training. John Doona was the better of the midfielders – Owen Joy was sick and could not play to his potential. The forwards did not play well with the exception of Nigel Reidy and Michael Lynch. Puck Fair had taken its toll!

Laune Rangers: Jason Griffin, James Hurley, Owen Corkery, Pat Cahill, Anthony O Sullivan, Adrian Hassett, David O Reilly, John Doona (capt.), Owen Joy, Owen O Sullivan, Michael Lynch, Rory O Connor, Carl O Sullivan, Nigel Reidy, Billy O Shea. Subs: Sean O Sullivan for D. O Reilly, Colm Joy, Paudie O Shea, Noel Conroy, Tom Fitzgerald, Eamonn Kissane, Stephen O Sullivan.

 

Final: Austin Stacks 1-8; John Mitchels 0-7.

Mid-Kerry U-16 Football Championship

Glenbeigh/Glencar, Keel, Milltown/Castlemaine and Cromane were allowed to play players that were sixteen and a half years old. Cromane was responsible for the organisation of all Bord na nOg Chiarraí Láir competitions during 1988.

 

Rd. 1 on Mon. 4^th April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 3-10; Beaufort 2-3.

Rangers played pathetically poorly in the first twenty minutes, though aided by the breeze. During that time Beaufort scored 2-2 and missed quite a few other chances. Rangers scored one point in reply. It was the great determination of Owen Corkery and Pat Cahill that kept the opposition at bay. However, the home side’s play improved in the final ten minutes of the half and three further points were scored, leaving the halftime score at 2-2 to 0-4 in favour of the visitors.

Rangers were totally transformed in the second half and dominated the opposition, allowing them but one point. Nigel Reidy moved to midfield, Anthony O Sullivan to left half-forward and Adrian Hassett to centre half-forward. All benefited from the changes. Owen Joy dominated at full-forward, John Doona played well and Nigel Reidy grew in confidence as the game wore on. Michael Lynch played his heart out, scoring some great points, while Billy O Shea really clicked into gear and scored three goals. Rangers fought back well and showed good discipline.

Laune Rangers: Tom Fitzgerald, Sean O Sullivan, Owen Corkery, James Hurley, Pat Cahill, Nigel Reidy, David O Reilly, John Doona, Anthony O Sullivan, Michael Lynch, Billy O Shea, Adrian Hassett, Owen O Sullivan, Owen Joy, Jason Griffin. Subs: John Foley for T. Fitzgerald, Colm Joy, Carl O Sullivan, Rory O Connor, Noel Conroy, Robert Kennedy, Adrian O Connor, Eamonn Kissane, Robert Murphy.

Ref: Michael Healy (Cromane).

 

Rd. 2 on Mon. 11^th April at Glenbeigh: Glenbeigh/Glencar 6-2; Laune Rangers 3-11.

That was an extraordinary game. Glenbeigh had a very strong midfield pairing, one of whom scored three goals and the other two goals. Rangers simply could not stop them coming through the middle. On the other hand, the Rangers forwards played like six strangers in the first half but that improved in the second half. They hit the post and the crossbar on many occasions and had some appalling wides when it seemed easier to score.

Laune Rangers: Paudie O Shea, Sean O Sullivan, Owen Corkery, James Hurley, Anthony O Sullivan, Adrian Hassett, David O Reilly, John Doona, Nigel Reidy, Michael Lynch, Billy O Shea, Jason Griffin, Carl O Sullivan, Owen Joy, Colm Joy. Subs: Tom Fitzgerald for P. O Shea, Owen O Sullivan for C. O Sullivan, John Foley for C. Joy, Noel Conroy, Rory O Connor, Robert Murphy, Stephen O Sullivan, Eamonn Kissane, Adrian O Connor.

Ref: Michael Healy (Cromane).

 

Rd. 4 on Mon. 25^th April at Keel: Keel 1-4; Laune Rangers 1-17.

Nigel Reidy fitted in very well at full-forward. The rest of the forwards played very well. The midfield pairing played a lot of the ball, Kieran Moriarty needed more practice as he had very little football played.

Laune Rangers: John Foley, James Hurley, Owen Corkery Pat Cahill, Anthony O Sullivan, Adrian Hassett, David O Reilly, John Doona, Kieran Moriarty, Michael Lynch, Billy O Shea, Paudie O Shea, Owen O Sullivan, Nigel Reidy, Jason Griffin. Subs: Colm Joy, Tom Fitzgerald, Rory O Connor, Carl O Sullivan, Eamonn Kissane, Adrian O Connor, Stephen O Sullivan, Robert Kennedy.

Ref: Michael Murphy (Callanfercy).

 

Rd. 5 on Mon. 2^nd May at Milltown: Milltown/Castlemaine 0-1; Laune Rangers 6-15.

Despite the difficult underfoot conditions, Rangers played exceptional football. John Foley was very good in goals. The backs were outstanding. Midfield dominated throughout, especially Kieran Moriarty. The forwards played great football as a unit.

Laune Rangers: John Foley, James Hurley, Owen Corkery, Pat Cahill, Anthony O Sullivan, Adrian Hassett, David O Reilly, John Doona, Kieran Moriarty, Michael Lynch, Billy O Shea, Paudie O Shea, Owen O Sullivan, Nigel Reidy, Jason Griffin. Subs: Carl O Sullivan for J. Griffin, Noel Conroy for J. Hurley, Robert Murphy for O. O Sullivan, Colm Joy, Tom Fitzgerald, Sean O Sullivan, Eamonn Kissane, Adrian O Connor.

Ref: Johnny Sheehan (Keel).

 

Rd. 3 on Mon. 9^th May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers w. o. from Cromane.

Cromane failed to show up for the game and made no contact with the club. That round should have been played on Mon. 18^th April, but Cromane had sought and had been granted a postponement.

 

Final on Sun. 29^th May at Beaufort: Beaufort 1-8; Laune Rangers 1-5.

Beaufort dominated most of the first half but they could not translate their superiority into scores. Laune Rangers took over 10 minutes before the break and scored 1-4, Owen Joy’s goal being a beauty. He soloed through before unleashing a great shot from 21 yards. Owen Corkery was mighty at fullback. Rangers led at halftime by 1-4 to 0-4. Beaufort owned the ball in the second half, except near the end when Nigel Reidy came to midfield, where he played very well. All of the Rangers’ backs, though under severe pressure, played well. It was really at midfield and in the forward line that Rangers did not play well, with the exception of Nigel Reidy. That was a great game of football and lived up to all expectations and was played before a big crowd. Both teams would have to be complimented on their sportsmanship. After the game, the Noreen Murphy Memorial Cup was presented to the captain of the Beaufort team, Kieran O Shea, by the Mid-Kerry Bord na nOg Secretary, Michael Healy, Cromane.

Laune Rangers: John Foley, James Hurley, Owen Corkery, Pat Cahill, Anthony O Sullivan, Adrian Hassett, David O Reilly, John Doona (capt.), Kieran Moriarty, Michael Lynch, Billy O Shea, Paudie O Shea, Owen O Sullivan, Nigel Reidy, Owen Joy. Subs: Jason Griffin for K. Moriarty, Carl O Sullivan for O. O Sullivan, Colm Joy for P. O Shea, Robert Murphy, Rory O Connor, Stephen O Sullivan, Robert Kennedy. Tom Fitzgerald had twisted his knee in training, while Sean O Sullivan and Eamonn Kissane both had stitches having clashed heads in training.

Beaufort: Aidan Cremin, Kieran Coffey, Gary McGrath, Danny Guerin, John Casey, Danny Teahan, Mícheál Spillane, Kieran O Shea, Eoin Tangney, Vincent O Donoghue, David Lynch, Michael O Brien, Fergal Spillane, Mike Breen, Kieran Doyle.

Ref: Frank Walsh (Cromane).

 

Co. U-15 7-a-side Blitz

Laune Rangers were in group 3 with Legion, Ballymac and Ballydonoghue. Unfortunately, the latter two failed to attend.

Sat. 24^th Sept. at Boherbue: Legion defeated Laune Rangers.

 

Co. U-14 Football Championship

That competition was played on a league basis. Coaches/Trainers – Patrick Pigott and John Clifford. There were 6 teams in the competition, Austin Stacks, Kerins O Rahillys, John Mitchels, Gaeltacht, Legion and Laune Rangers.

 

Rd. 1 on Wed. 6^th April at Killarney (Mental Hospital Field): Legion 2-8; Laune Rangers 1-6.

Laune Rangers had not improved as much as the opposition since they had met in the U-12 final two years previously. Kealon O Sullivan, Karl Griffin and Redmond Fitzgerald were the best of the defence. Paudie Russell and Mike Hassett played well at midfield. Joe Healy, Liam Hassett and Kevin Jones were the pick of the attack.

Laune Rangers: Stephen Foley, Mark Conway, Declan Byrne, Redmond Fitzgerald, Karl Griffin, Kealon O Sullivan, Michael Cahillane, Paudie Russell, Mike Hassett, Raymond O Sullivan, Joe Healy (capt.), Kevin Jones, Francis O Sullivan (Reen), Eamonn Foley, Liam Hassett. Subs: Glenn Evans for F. O Sullivan, Ronan Curtayne, Gerry O Brien, Nicholas Bainton.

Ref: Dan O Sullivan (Currow).

 

Rd. 2 on Tues. 12^th April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 4-13; John Mitchel’s 1-4.

That was a much better performance – more combination.

Laune Rangers: Stephen Foley, Mark Conway, Declan Byrne, Michael Cahillane, Karl Griffin, Kealon O Sullivan, Redmond Fitzgerald, Paudie Russell, Mike Hassett, Liam Hassett, Eamonn Foley, Kevin Jones, Glenn Evans, Joe Healy, Raymond O Sullivan. Subs: Francis O Sullivan, Gerry O Brien and Rory Corkery (all played).

Ref: John Griffin (Listry).

 

Rd. 3 on Wed. 20^th April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 2-5; Kerins O Rahilly’s 2-8.

Laune Rangers: Stephen Foley, Mark Conway, Declan Byrne, Michael Cahillane, Karl Griffin, Kealon O Sullivan, Redmond Fitzgerald, Paudie Russell, Mike Hassett, Raymond O Sullivan, Liam Hassett, Kevin Jones, Glenn Evans, Eamonn Foley, Ronan Curtayne. Subs: Francis O Sullivan, Gerry O Brien. Joe Healy was sick and unable to play.

Ref: Michael Healy (Cromane) – good.

 

Rd. 4 on Sun. 1^st May at Gallerus: An Ghaeltacht 1-2; Laune Rangers 0-10.

Laune Rangers played very well. Mark Conway, Paudie Russell and Kealon O Sullivan played very well in defence. The forwards could have combined better.

Laune Rangers: Stephen Foley, Mark Conway, Paudie Russell, Michael Cahillane, Karl Griffin, Kealon O Sullivan, Redmond Fitzgerald, Declan Byrne, Mike Hassett, Liam Hassett, Eamonn Foley, Kevin Jones, Glenn Evans, Joe Healy, Raymond O Sullivan.

Ref: Frank Dorgan (Lispole).

 

Rd. 5 on Mon. 2^nd May at Connolly Park: Austin Stack’s 1-9; Laune Rangers 1-6.

Laune Rangers: Stephen Foley, Mark Conway, Paudie Russell, Michael Cahillane, Karl Griffin, Kealon O Sullivan, Redmond Fitzgerald, Declan Byrne, Mike Hassett, Liam Hassett, Eamonn Foley, Kevin Jones, Glenn Evans, Joe Healy, Raymond O Sullivan. Subs: Francis O Sullivan for L. Hassett, Ronan Curtayne for G. Evans, Gerry O Brien.

 

First play-off on Thurs. 12^th May at Annascaul: Laune Rangers 0-9; An Ghaeltacht 1-4.

It rained continually during the game. Three teams had finished on four points – An Ghaeltacht, John Mitchel’s and Laune Rangers. An Ghaeltacht, having been beaten on the night, had to play John Mitchels and Laune Rangers would play the winners for the right to play in the semi-finals. Liam Hassett was very good in goals. Paudie Russell was excellent. Mike Hassett played well, also. Joe Healy was the best of the forwards.

Laune Rangers: Liam Hassett, Mark Conway, Paudie Russell, Michael Cahillane, Karl Griffin, Kealon O Sullivan, Redmond Fitzgerald, Declan Byrne, Mike Hassett, Raymond O Sullivan, Eamonn Foley, Kevin Jones, Glenn Evans, Joe Healy, Francis O Sullivan. Subs: Ronan Curtayne for F. O Sullivan, Gerry O Brien.

Ref: Seamus Rafter (Castlegregory).

 

Quarter-final on Mon. 23^rd May at Annascaul: Laune Rangers 2-8; An Ghaeltacht 1-5.

That was a gutsy performance by Laune Rangers. Paudie Russell gave an exhibition of fullback play. All the other backs seemed to take inspiration from him and they played well, particularly in the second half. Mike Hassett and Declan Byrne broke even at midfield. Kevin Jones had a ‘blinder’. The other forwards played well too, Derry O Sullivan kicking two good points.

Laune Rangers: Liam Hassett, Mark Conway, Paudie Russell, Michael Cahillane, Redmond Fitzgerald, Kealon O Sullivan, Karl Griffin, Declan Byrne, Mike Hassett, Derry O Sullivan, Eamonn Foley, Kevin Jones, Raymond O Sullivan, Joe Healy, Gerry O Brien. Subs: Glenn Evans, Stephen Foley, Francis O Sullivan, James Murphy, Pat O Keeffe, Ronan Curtayne, Neillie Curran.

Ref: Michael Devane (Annascaul).

 

Semi-final on Mon. 30^th May at Currow: Laune Rangers 2-7; Austin Stack’s 0-4.

Every last player was a hero. Rangers had to play without their influential fullback, Paudie Russell, who had fallen off his bicycle the previous day. However, the players rose to the occasion and gave a six-star performance. Liam Hassett was brilliant in goals. Mark Conway and Raymond O Sullivan did exactly as they had been told and blotted out the two corner-forwards. Michael Cahillane deputised at fullback like a Trojan and was the man-of-the-match. The halfback line, though outplayed at times, stuck to their guns and came out on top at the end. Mike Hassett was great and covered the whole field and he was ably assisted by Declan Byrne. Derry O Sullivan was superb at full-forward and caused havoc. Kevin Jones had a very good game. Joe Healy improved as the game went on, while Eamonn Foley, Gerry O Brien and Ronan Curtayne also played important parts in the win. That was a glorious victory.

Laune Rangers: Liam Hassett, Mark Conway, Michael Cahillane, Raymond O Sullivan, Karl Griffin, Kealon O Sullivan, Redmond Fitzgerald, Declan Byrne, Mike Hassett, Eamonn Foley, Joe Healy, Kevin Jones, Stephen Foley, Derry O Sullivan, Gerry O Brien. Subs: Ronan Curtayne for S. Foley, Francis O Sullivan, Glenn Evans, Pat O Keeffe.

Ref: Dan O Sullivan (Currow).

 

Final on Mon. 6^th June at Milltown: Laune Rangers 1-5; Kerins O Rahilly’s 0-3.

The evening was very wet and conditions were slippery. O Rahilly’s elected to play with the aid of the wind in the first half, but were immediately in trouble. Derry O Sullivan scored a goal after two minutes. A high ball broke off their backs and the Laune Rangers forward took full advantage by shooting to the net. Rangers struggled at midfield for long periods but Paudie Russell was tremendous at fullback. Liam Hassett was soundness personified in goals. Rangers led at halftime by 1-2 to 0-2. Mike Hassett played well in the second half and the forwards also improved. Kevin Jones played a very good game. That victory was unexpected and there was great credit due to the team trainers, Patrick Pigott and John Clifford. A large cavalcade of cars escorted the team back to Killorglin, where the boys in blue were given a tremendous reception.

Laune Rangers: Liam Hassett, Michael Cahillane, Paudie Russell, Raymond O Sullivan, Karl Griffin, Kealon O Sullivan, Redmond Fitzgerald, Declan Byrne, Mike Hassett, Eamonn Foley, Joe Healy (Capt.), Gerry O Brien, Ronan Curtayne, Derry O Sullivan, Kevin Jones. Subs: Glenn Evans for G. O Brien, Stephen Foley, Francis O Sullivan, Pat O Keeffe. Mark Conway was sick and unable to travel.

Kerins O Rahillys: Brian Quirke, Martin O Shea, John Quinlan, Trevor Horan, Alan O Connell, Eamonn Griffin, Michael O Shea, Paul O Sullivan, Fergus Kelliher, Ian Foley, Tommy McCarthy, John Kelly, Joe Griffin, Mark O Keeffe, David Fitzgerald.

Ref: Dan O Sullivan (Currow) – excellent.

 

Co. U-14B Championship Div. 7

There were six teams in the Division – Legion ‘B’, Laune Rangers ‘B’, Austin Stacks ‘B’, Kerins O Rahillys ‘B’, Kerins O Rahillys ‘C’ and Gaeltacht ‘B’.

Team coach – Jerome Conway.

 

Rd. 1 on Sat. 9^th April at Killarney: Legion B 3-2; Laune Rangers B 4-7.

Gerry O Brien and Pat O Keeffe held sway at midfield for most of the game. When Ronan Curtayne went to full-forward and when the ball was played into him, he responded by scoring 3-2. Rory Corkery was the outstanding back on view and Francis O Sullivan also played well. Ronan Curtayne, Tony O Sullivan and Fiachra O Donoghue played well in attack.

Laune Rangers: Andrew Doyle, David O Shea, Derry O Donoghue, Francis O Sullivan (Glenashe), Rory Corkery, Thomas Walsh, Cathal Crowley, Gerry O Brien, Pat O Keeffe, Martin O Riordan, James Murphy, Ronan Curtayne, Fiachra O Donoghue, Tony O Sullivan, Nicholas Bainton.

Ref: Jerome Conway.

 

Rd. 2 on Sat. 16^th April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers B 5-11; Kerins O Rahilly’s C 1-4.

Laune Rangers: Andrew Doyle, Donncha Curran, Derry O Donoghue, Francis O Sullivan, John Purcell, Redmond Fitzgerald, Michael O Neill, Gerry O Brien, Pat O Keeffe, Anthony Foley, Glenn Evans, James Murphy, Fiachra O Donoghue, Ronan Curtayne, Tony O Sullivan. Subs: Martin O Riordan, David O Shea,  Christopher Purcell (all played).

 

Rd. 3 on Sat. 23^rd April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers B 2-1; Kerins O Rahilly’s B 3-5.

Laune Rangers: Andrew Doyle, Donncha Curran, Derry O Donoghue, John Purcell, Rory Corkery, Thomas Walsh, Michael O Neill, Gerry O Brien, Pat O Keeffe, Anthony Foley, James Murphy, Fiachra O Donoghue, Tony O Sullivan, Cathal Crowley, Nicholas Bainton.

 

Rd. 4 on Sun. 1^st May at Gallerus: Gaeltacht B 2-7; Laune Rangers B 3-6.

Rangers played very well. Derry O Sullivan, in his first game, played very well, scoring 2-1. Thomas Walsh, Francis O Sullivan, Derry O Donoghue, Donncha Curran and Rory Corkery played well, also. Ronan Curtayne scored 1-1.

Laune Rangers: Andrew Doyle, Donncha Curran, Derry O Donoghue, Francis O Sullivan, Rory Corkery, Thomas Walsh, Michael O Neill, Gerry O Brien (capt.), Pat O Keeffe, Francis O Sullivan (Reen), Derry O Sullivan, James Murphy, Fiachra O Donoghue, Ronan Curtayne, Tony O Sullivan. Subs: Anthony Foley for M. O Neill, John Purcell, Nicholas Bainton, Christopher Purcell, Martin O Riordan, David O Shea.

Ref: Pat Pigott.

 

Rd. 5 on Sat. 7^th May at Connolly Park: Austin Stack’s B 2-11; Laune Rangers B 2-6.

Gerry O Brien, Rory Corkery, Derry O Sullivan and Donncha Curran played well and showed great heart.

Laune Rangers: Andrew Doyle, Donncha Curran, Derry O Donoghue, Francis O Sullivan (Glenashe), Rory Corkery, Thomas Walsh, Anthony Foley, Pat O Keeffe, Gerry O Brien, David O Shea, Derry O Sullivan, James Murphy, Fiachra O Donoghue, Ronan Curtayne, Tony O Sullivan. Subs: Michael O Neill, John Purcell, Nicholas Bainton, Cathal Crowley, Shane Diggin, Christopher Purcell.

Ref: Jerome Conway.

 

Semi-final on Tues. 17^th May at Currow: Austin Stack’s B 5-7; Laune Rangers B 1-10.

Rangers played very well in the first half and were on level terms at halftime. Indeed, halfway through the second half, Rangers were one point in the lead. Then the defence was caught out, Stack’s scored a few goals and there was no way back. John Purcell played very well despite his lack of experience. Gerry O Brien and Pat O Keeffe played quite well at midfield. Derry O Sullivan and Kenneth Mangan were the best of the forwards. Rangers were much better than the score-line would suggest.

Laune Rangers: Andrew Doyle, Cathal Crowley, Derry O Donoghue, Francis O Sullivan (Glenashe), John Purcell, Thomas Walsh, Rory Corkery, Pat O Keeffe, Gerry O Brien (capt.), Ronan Curtayne, Kenneth Mangan, James Murphy, Fiachra O Donoghue, Derry O Sullivan, Tony O Sullivan Subs: Anthony Foley for C. Crowley, Michael O Neill, Francis O Sullivan (Reen), Nicholas Bainton, Martin O Riordan, Christopher Purcell, Shane Diggin.

Ref: Mick Galwey (Currow).

 

Mid-Kerry U-14 Championship

That competition was played on a league basis.

 

Rd 2 on Sat. 26^th March at Glenbeigh: Glenbeigh/Glencar 0-1; Laune Rangers 4-11.

As is evident from the score, that was a runaway victory.

Laune Rangers: Derry O Donoghue, Mark Conway, Declan Byrne, Redmond Fitzgerald, Raymond O Sullivan, Kealon O Sullivan, Michael Cahillane, Paudie Russell, Paul O Brien, Kevin Jones, Joe Healy, James Murphy, Glenn Evans, Eamonn Foley, Francis O Sullivan. Subs: Nicholas Bainton for E. Foley, David O Shea for G. Evans. Missing were Mike Hassett, Liam Hassett, Stephen Foley, Ray Khan, Gerry O Brien, Cathal Crowley, Ronan Curtayne.

Ref: Frank Walsh (Cromane).

 

Rd. 1 on Sat. 2^nd April at Milltown: Milltown/Castlemaine 2-2; Laune Rangers 4-9.

Rangers played quite well but near the end they lost some of their discipline, resulting in Declan Byrne being sent off.

Laune Rangers: Stephen Foley, Mark Conway, Declan Byrne, Redmond Fitzgerald, Michael Cahillane, Kealon O Sullivan, Gerry O Brien, Paudie Russell, Mike Hassett, Liam Hassett, Joe Healy, Kevin Jones, Raymond O Sullivan, Eamonn Foley, Francis O Sullivan Subs: James Murphy for F. O Sullivan, Nicholas Bainton, David O Shea.

Ref: Michael Curran (Beaufort).

 

Rd. 3 on Mon. 6^th June at Killorglin: Laune Rangers w. o. from Cromane.

Cromane failed to show up for that game.

 

Rd. 4 on Mon. 13^th June at Keel: Keel 0-2; Laune Rangers 2-12.

Laune Rangers: Neillie Curran, Mark Conway, Paudie Russell, Raymond O Sullivan, Karl Griffin, Kealon O Sullivan, Redmond Fitzgerald, Mike Hassett, Liam Hassett, Gerry O Brien, Derry O Sullivan, Kevin Jones, Stephen Foley, Eamonn Foley, Ronan Curtayne. Subs: James Murphy, Pat O Keeffe, Glenn Evans, Nicholas Bainton. Missing were Joe Healy (USA), Declan Byrne (England), Michael Cahillane (England), Francis O Sullivan (inj.).

Ref: Michael Healy (Cromane).

 

Rd. 5 on Mon. 20^th June at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 2-8; Beaufort 2-8.

Beaufort were very strong physically.

Laune Rangers: Neillie Curran, Mark Conway, Michael Cahillane, Raymond O Sullivan, Karl Griffin, Kealon O Sullivan, Redmond Fitzgerald, Mike Hassett, Paudie Russell, Liam Hassett, Kevin Jones, Eamonn Foley, Stephen Foley, Derry O Sullivan, Ronan Curtayne. Subs: Gerry O Brien for E. Foley, Turlough Byrnes for S. Foley, Pat O Keeffe for R. Curtayne, Glenn Evans, Tony O Sullivan, Nicholas Bainton, Francis O Sullivan. Missing from the team were Declan Byrne (England) and Joe Healy (USA).

Ref: Michael Murphy (Callanfercy).

 

Final on Mon. 4^th July at Cromane: Laune Rangers 1-9; Milltown/Castlemaine 2-6.

Laune Rangers played well against a bigger team. Mike Hassett was great at midfield and he got good support from Kevin Jones. Liam Hassett and Gerry Brien were the best of the forwards. The backs played well for most of the game. The halftime score was 0-5 to 0-3 in favour of Rangers, who missed the services of Declan Byrne and Joe Healy. Milltown/Castlemaine contended that they had won the game (that the referee had credited Laune Rangers with a point that had been scored by Milltown/Castlemaine). The referee was adamant that he had the proper score. The game was refixed but Milltown/Castlemaine failed to show for the refixture. At the Mid-Kerry Senior Board meeting on Mon. 22^nd Aug. Milltown/Castlemaine appealed against the decision of Mid-Kerry Bord na nOg in refixing the game. The matter was referred back to the Mid-Kerry Bord na nOg. Another refixture was made. Again Milltown/Castlemaine failed to show. However, Laune Rangers were not awarded the game by those in charge of Bord na nOg Chiarraí Láir for that year – Cromane (Chairman – Frank Walsh and Secretary – Michael Healy). The matter was allowed to peter out – a decision was never made, despite numerous requests by Laune Rangers Club.

Laune Rangers: Neillie Curran, Mark Conway, Paudie Russell (capt.), Michael Cahillane, Karl Griffin, Kealon O Sullivan, Redmond Fitzgerald, Mike Hassett, Kevin Jones, Gerry O Brien, Eamonn Foley, Liam Hassett, Ronan Curtayne, Derry O Sullivan, Raymond O Sullivan. Subs: Turlough Byrnes for R. Curtayne, Pat O Keeffe, Tony O Sullivan, James Murphy, Nicholas Bainton, Stephen Foley.

Ref: Frank Walsh (Cromane).

 

U-13 Football

 

The Annual Austin Stack’s U-13 Blitz was held on the weekend Sat. 10^th/Sun. 11^th Sept. at Connolly Park. Laune Rangers beat Quilty, Co. Clare and Na Gaeil but lost to Austin Stack’s by two points. They thus qualified for the ‘B’ Final, in which they lost to Na Piarsaigh, Cork.

 

Co. U-12 Football Championship

There were six teams in the Division – John Mitchels, Gaeltacht, Dr. Crokes, Austin Stacks, Laune Rangers and Kerins O Rahillys.

Team coaches/trainers – Patsy Joy and Bertie Houlihan.

 

Rd. 1 on Sun. 15^th May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 1-5; Kerins O Rahilly’s 2-8.

Rangers were very physically small in comparison to the opposition.

Laune Rangers: Eamonn Clifford, Joe Hayes, Alan O Sullivan (Tullig), Donncha Curran, John Sheehan, Thomas Walsh, Nelius Lynch, Rory Corkery (capt.), Fergal O Brien, Michael F. Russell, Fiachra O Donoghue, Johnny Lynch, David Lynch, Thomas Murphy, Patrick Murphy. Subs: John O Sullivan, Paudie Finnegan, Alan O Sullivan (Shanara).

Ref: Michael Murphy (Callanfercy).

 

Rd. 2 on Mon. 23^rd May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 0-6; Dr. Crokes 2-4.

Laune Rangers: Eamonn Clifford, Joe Hayes, Alan O Sullivan, Donncha Curran, John Sheehan, Thomas Walsh, Nelius Lynch, Rory Corkery, Alan O Sullivan (Shanara), Thomas Murphy, Fiachra O Donoghue, Johnny Lynch, David Lynch, Nigel Corkery, John O Sullivan. Subs: Fergal O Brien, Patrick O Sullivan, Paudie Finnegan. Michael F. Russell was injured and unable to play.

Ref: Michael Healy (Cromane).

 

Rd. 3 on Wed. 25^th May at Mitchel’s Pitch: John Mitchel’s 1-8; Laune Rangers 1-7.

Rangers should have won that game as they had plenty of opportunities but squandered many of them.

Laune Rangers: Eamonn Clifford, Joe Hayes, Alan O Sullivan, Nelius Lynch, John Sheehan, Donncha Curran, Paudie Finnegan, Rory Corkery, Thomas Walsh, Tommy Murphy, Fiachra O Donoghue, Johnny Lynch, David Lynch, Alan O Sullivan (Shanara), John O Sullivan. Subs: Pa O Sullivan, Fergal O Brien, Nigel Corkery.

 

Rd. 4 on Wed. 1^st June at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 3-10; An Ghaeltacht 2-8.

 

Rd. 5 on Wed. 8^th June at Connolly Park: Austin Stack’s 3-8; Laune Rangers 0-5.

That was the first time in eight years that the club did not reach the U-12 semi-finals. However, Patsy Joy and Bertie Houlihan were pleased with the way the team played, particularly the backs. The team was better than the score would suggest. Many of the team was eligible again the following year.

Laune Rangers: Eamonn Clifford, Joe Hayes, Thomas Walsh, Nelius Lynch, John Sheehan, Donncha Curran, Paudie Finnegan, Alan O Sullivan (Tullig), Rory Corkery, Tommy Murphy, Fiachra O Donoghue, John O Sullivan, David Lynch, Alan O Sullivan (Shanara), Pa O Sullivan. Subs: Fergal O Brien, Nigel Corkery, Johnny Lynch (all played).

Laune Rangers did not progress beyond the preliminary rounds.

 

Co. U-12B Championship Div. 7

There were six teams in the Division – Legion ‘B’, Kerins O Rahillys ‘B’, Dr. Crokes ‘B’, Austin Stacks ‘B’, Kerins O Rahillys ‘C’ and Laune Rangers ‘B’.

Coach – Jerome Conway.

 

Rd. 1 on Sun. 15^th May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers B 1-6; Kerins O Rahilly’s B 1-8

Laune Rangers: Fabien Jegouso, Timothy McGillycuddy, Seamus Costello, Michael Hurley, Owen O Connell, Paul O Brien, Maurice Sheehan, Dermot Murphy, Pat Leahy, Shane Harmon, Michael O Neill, Shane Diggin, Nicky Foley, Ger Buckley, Brendan O Doherty. Subs: Noel Purcell, Kevin Purcell, Tony Lyons, Anthony Reen, Roy Ferris, Padraig Moriarty.

Ref: T.J. O Connor (Ballymacelligott).

 

Rd. 2 on Mon. 23^rd May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers B 3-6; Dr. Crokes B 0-3.

Laune Rangers: Fabien Jegouso, Timothy McGillycuddy, Seamus Costello, Michael Hurley, Owen O Connell, Paul O Brien, Maurice Sheehan, Pat Leahy, Aidan Leahy, Nicky Foley, Dermot Murphy, Shane Harmon, Anthony Reen, Colm Conway, Liam Fitzgerald. Subs: Brendan O Doherty, Shane Diggin, Tony Lyons, Noel Purcell, Kevin Purcell, Roy Ferris.

 

Rd. 3 on Thurs. 26^th May at Killarney: Legion B 5-10; Laune Rangers B 0-2.

Pat Leahy and Michael Hurley played well. Rangers C team played Legion C in a challenge and Rangers won.

Laune Rangers: Fabien Jegouso, Michael Hurley, Paul O Brien, Timothy McGillycuddy, Seamus Costello, Anthony Horgan, Maurice Sheehan, Pat Leahy, Aidan Leahy, Brian O Neill, Dermot Murphy, Owen O Connell, Anthony Reen, Colm Conway, Liam Fitzgerald. Sub: Brendan O Doherty for L. Fitzgerald.

 

Rd. 4 on Sat. 4^th June at Killorglin: Laune Rangers B 1-9; Kerins O Rahilly’s C 2-6.

Laune Rangers: Tony Lyons, Padraig Moriarty, Paul O Brien, Timothy McGillycuddy, Anthony O Sullivan, Michael Hurley, Maurice Sheehan, Pat Leahy, Aidan Leahy, Shane Harmon, Dermot Murphy, Owen O Connell, Anthony Reen, Colm Conway, Brian O Neill. Subs: Simon Ferris for P. Moriarty, Liam Fitzgerald for B. O Neill, Roy Ferris for A. Reen, Noel Purcell, Kevin Purcell.

 

Rd. 5 on Sat. 11^th June at Connolly Park: Austin Stack’s B 2-11; Laune Rangers B 3-10.

Laune Rangers played well. Owen O Connell scored 2-2, Brian O Neill 1-0, Colm Conway 0-2 and Seamus Costello 0-1.

Laune Rangers: Michael Hurley, Padraig Moriarty, Paul O Brien, Timothy McGillycuddy, Anthony O Sullivan, Seamus Costello, Maurice Sheehan, Pat Leahy, Aidan Leahy, Shane Diggin, Dermot Murphy, Owen O Connell, Shane Harmon, Colm Conway, Brian O Neill. Subs: Simon Ferris, Gerard Buckley, Noel Purcell, Liam Fitzgerald, Roy Ferris, Anthony Reen, Brendan O Doherty, Gerard Murphy, Michael Russell (all played), Thomas Kelliher, Kevin Purcell.

Ref: Jerome Conway.

 

Semi-final on Mon. 20^th June at Milltown: Kerins O Rahillys B 3-16; Laune Rangers B 1-4.

Laune Rangers played with the aid of the breeze in the first half and led at halftime by 1-4 to 1-3, Brian O Neill getting the goal. However, they were overwhelmed in the second half by a stronger team.

Laune Rangers: Michael Hurley, Timothy McGillycuddy, Paul O Brien, Simon Ferris, Anthony O Sullivan, Seamus Costello, Anthony Horgan, Pat Leahy, Aidan Leahy (capt.), Shane Diggin, Dermot Murphy, Owen O Connell, Shane Harmon, Colm Conway, Brian O Neill. Subs: Maurice Sheehan for S. Ferris, Michael Russell for T. McGillycuddy, Roy Ferris, Brendan O Doherty, Padraig Moriarty, Noel Purcell, Gerard Buckley, Liam Fitzgerald, Anthony Reen, Gerard Murphy, Thomas Kelliher, Kevin Purcell, Michael O Sullivan (Iveragh Park).

Ref: Dermot Ryan (Milltown/Castlemaine).

 

Mid-Kerry U-12 Championship

 

Rd. 1 on Mon. 25^th July at Cromane: Cromane 1-0; Laune Rangers 11-19.

Laune Rangers: Eamonn Clifford, Nelius Lynch, Thomas Walsh, Joe Hayes, John Sheehan, Alan O Sullivan (Tullig), Paudie Finnegan, Rory Corkery, Alan O Sullivan (Shanara), Johnny Lynch, Fiachra O Donoghue, John O Sullivan, Michael F. Russell, Donncha Curran, Tommy Murphy. Subs: Pa O Sullivan, David Lynch, Brian O Neill, Anthony Horgan, Pat Leahy, Colm Conway, Shane Diggin (all played).

 

Rd. 2 on Mon. 1^st Aug. at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 3-15; Milltown/Castlemaine 1-2.

Laune Rangers: Eamonn Clifford, Joe Hayes, Thomas Walsh, Donncha Curran, John Sheehan, Alan O Sullivan (Tullig), Nelius Lynch, Rory Corkery, Alan O Sullivan (Shanara), Tommy Murphy, Fiachra O Donoghue, Johnny Lynch, David Lynch, Michael F. Russell, John O Sullivan. Subs: Pa O Sullivan, Nigel Corkery (both played), Colm Conway, Pat Leahy, Paul O Brien, Michael Hurley, Brian O Neill, Anthony Horgan.

 

Rd. 3 on Mon. 15^th Aug. at Keel: Keel lost to Laune Rangers.

 

Rd. 4 on Mon. 22^nd Aug. at Killorglin: Laune Rangers defeated Glenbeigh/Glencar.

 

Rd. 5 on Wed. 24^th Aug. at Killorglin: Laune Rangers lost heavily to Beaufort.

 

Semi-final on Mon. 29^th Aug. at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 7-11; Milltown/Castlemaine 0-2.

Laune Rangers: Eamonn Clifford, Joe Hayes, Thomas Walsh, Nelius Lynch, Paudie Finnegan, Alan O Sullivan (Tullig), John Sheehan, Rory Corkery, Johnny Lynch, Fiachra O Donoghue, Alan O Sullivan (Shanara), Tommy Murphy, Michael F. Russell, Donncha Curran, John O Sullivan. Subs: David Lynch, Pa O Sullivan, Nigel Corkery, Fergal O Brien, Pat Leahy, Paul O Brien, Colm Conway, Brian O Neill.

Ref: Michael Healy (Cromane).

 

Final on Mon. 5^th Sept. at Milltown: Laune Rangers 0-14; Beaufort 1-8.

That was a sweet victory. Rangers had improved immensely from the preliminary round in which they had been well beaten. They played delightful football, fielding, blocking and scoring delightfully.

Laune Rangers: Eamonn Clifford, Joe Hayes, Thomas Walsh, Nelius Lynch, John Sheehan, Alan O Sullivan (Tullig), Paudie Finnegan, Rory Corkery (capt.), Alan O Sullivan (Shanara), John O Sullivan, Fiachra O Donoghue, Michael F. Russell, David Lynch, Donncha Curran, Tommy Murphy. Subs: Pa O Sullivan for T. Murphy, Tommy Murphy for P. O Sullivan, Nigel Corkery, Fergal O Brien, Aidan Leahy, Pat Leahy, Paul O Brien, Colm Conway, Michael Hurley, Timothy McGillycuddy, Shane Diggin. Johnny Lynch became ill just before the game commenced and could not play.

Ref: Michael Murphy (Callanfercy).

 

U-12 Challenge Game

 

Sat. 26^th March at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 3-12; Legion 0-2.

Laune Rangers: Eamonn Clifford, Donncha Curran, Thomas Walsh, Nelius Lynch, John Sheehan, Alan O Sullivan (Tullig), Paudie Finnegan, Rory Corkery, Fergal O Brien, Michael F. Russell, Fiachra O Donoghue, Tommy Murphy, David Lynch, Alan O Sullivan (Shanara), John O Sullivan. There were umpteen subs.

 

U-7, U-9 and U-11 Challenge Games

Mentors – Seamus Murphy, Willie Fitzgerald and James Ferris.

Sat. 23^rd July, Mickey Ned O Sullivan brought seven juvenile teams to Killorglin from Kenmare for a day out. The following games were played simultaneously, using coats and bags for goals: 2 under 7, 3 under 9 and 2 under 11. No official scores were kept and a great time was had by all. The Laune Rangers club gave all the players refreshments.

 

Schools/Colleges’ Football

 

Co. Primary Schools Seven-a-side

Sat. 23^rd April in Strand Road:

Scoil Mhuire, having won out the Mid-Kerry competition, qualified for the County Championship but was beaten by Scoil na mBráithre, An Daingean, and Ballyduff Central N.S. There was a sliding scale of age-handicap, depending on the number of boys in the school from third class to sixth, i.e. the bigger the number of boys, the greater the age-handicap.

Scoil Mhuire: Ronan Curtayne (capt.), Glenn Evans, John Sheehan, Eamonn Clifford, Michael F. Russell, Fiachra O Donoghue, Tommy Murphy, Joe Hayes, David Lynch, Pa O Sullivan.

 

Laune Rangers N.S. Competition

There were four teams of 12-a-side, Glounaguillagh, Douglas, Scoil Mhuire ‘A’ and Scoil Mhuire ‘B’. Each team played the other, culminating in an ‘A’ final (for the Patsy Foley Cup) and a ‘B’ Final.

 

‘A’ Final on Sat. 24^th Sept. at Killorglin: Douglas beat Scoil Mhuire ‘B’.

That was a well-deserved win by the Bertie Houlihan trained Douglas School – its first win in that competition.

Scoil Mhuire ‘B’: Redmond Fitzgerald (capt.), Eamonn Clifford, Paudie Finnegan, Tony O Sullivan, John O Sullivan, Pa O Sullivan, Michael F. Russell, David Lynch, Ronan Curtayne, Joe Hayes, Glenn Evans, Shane Harmon. Subs: John Scully, Tim Scannell, Tony Lyons.

 

‘B’ Final on Sat. 24^th Sept. at Killorglin: Scoil Mhuire ‘A’ beat Glounaguillagh.

For that final, the Scoil Mhuire ‘A’ captain, Eamonn Foley, did not show up – he was participating in the BLE Co. Championships. Thomas Hobbins was made captain in his place. Brian O Neill played very well and scored 1-4.

Scoil Mhuire ‘A’: Thomas Hobbins (capt.), Anthony Reen, Anthony O Sullivan, Anthony Horgan, John Sheehan, Michael Russell, Pat Leahy, John Cronin, Tommy Murphy, Fiachra O Donoghue, Brian O Neill, Colm Conway.

Mid-Kerry N.S. Competition

Semi-final 11-a-side Schools on Fri. 27^th May at Milltown: Castlemaine 3-4; Glounaguillagh 0-1.

Semi-final 15-a-side Schools on Fri. 27^th Mat at Milltown: Cullina 1-11; Scoil Mhuire ‘B’ 0-7.

 

Co. Vocational Schools’ Senior Championship 1987/’88

Final at Fitzgerald Stadium: Tralee Community School 4-13; Killorglin Community School 0-5.

Tralee Community College became the first team since 1981/82 to retain the Kerry Vocational Schools’ Senior Football Championship. They opened the scoring with a point from Pat Driscoll after five minutes and a further point from Seamus Murphy from a free two minutes later. A free, taken by Seamus Murphy in the ninth minute was fielded by John Harrington on the edge of the Killorglin square, he turned to his right and sent a left-footed shot to the back of the net. Killorglin, after that setback, set about overcoming the situation and Colman O Shea pointed a free to open their scoring and, by halftime, thanks to two further frees from O Shea and a point by Brendan Breen, they had reduced the lead to 1-4 to 0-4.

In the second half, Tralee took the game to their opponents and further points by Murphy and Harrington stretched the lead and the game was put out of Killorglin’s reach with a second goal from Seamus Murphy. From there to the end, it was a case of Tralee displaying all their wonderful talents of skill and football ability.

Killorglin: John Foley (Laune Rangers), Danny Teahan (Beaufort), Brian Mangan (Laune Rangers), Donal Murphy, Anthony O Sullivan (Laune Rangers), Jeremiah O Sullivan, Liam Griffin (Milltown), Diarmuid O Sullivan (Glenbeigh), Colman O Shea (Listry) 0-4, frees, Adrian Hassett (Laune Rangers), Brendan Breen (0-1), Michael Breen, Gerry Clifford (Laune Rangers), Alan Kerins (Milltown), Shane O Sullivan (Glenbeigh). Sub: Thomas Corbett (Firies) for A. Hassett.

Tralee: Jason O Connor, Brendan Dillane, Brendan Doyle, Sean O Donnell, Aidan Savage, Kieran O Donnell, Diarmuid Trant, Joe Smith, Brendan Murphy, Pat Driscoll, Seamus Murphy, Eamonn Ferris, Terry Healy, John Harrington, John Nix. Subs: Martin Nix for J. Nix, Aidan Walsh for J. Harrington.

 

Munster/All-Ireland Vocational Schools’ Championship 1987/’88.

Semi-final on Wed. 17^th Feb. at Thomond Grounds, Limerick: Kerry 2-10; Tipperary 1-1.

Kerry: Seamus Murphy (St. Pat’s), Michael O Sullivan (Waterville), Eamonn Kennedy (Firies), John Cronin (Waterville), John McCarthy (Gneeveguilla), Michael Griffin (Churchill), Kieran Moynihan (John Mitchel’s), Michael O Connor (Duagh), Danny Cahill (Laune Rangers), Michael Dennehy (Rathmore), Joe Smith (Austin Stack’s), Kieran O Sullivan (Rathmore), Sean Moynihan (Spa), Maurice Carroll (Kerins O Rahilly’s), Maurice Fitzgerald (Waterville). Subs: Sean O Sullivan (Kenmare) for M. Griffin, Derek Keane for M. Fitzgerald, John Enright (Causeway) for S. Moynihan.

 

Final on Wed. 16^th March at Killarney: Kerry 2-13; Cork 1-15.

Danny Cahill began at centre halfback and was moved to midfield. He scored two points.

 

Semi-final on Sat. 2^nd April at Ruane, Co. Clare: Mayo 1-10; Kerry 1-8.

Danny Cahill was truly outstanding at centre halfback.

 

Co. Vocational Schools Senior Championship 1988/’89

Rd. 1 on Wed. 12^th Oct. at Cromane: Killorglin V.S. 1-8; Killarney V.S. 1-7.

A brilliant goal by Beaufort’s Brendan Breen proved to be the match-winner in that game. Others to impress were Colman O Shea (Listry), Gerard Clifford (Laune Rangers), Liam Griffin (Milltown/Castlemaine) and Diarmuid O Sullivan (Glenbeigh).

 

Rd. 2 on Wed. 19^th oct. at Rathmore: Rathmore V.S. 0-5; Killorglin V.S 2-6.

Killorglin: John Foley (Laune Rangers), Donal Murphy, Brian Mangan (Laune Rangers), Jeremiah O Sullivan (0-1), Anthony O Sullivan (Laune Rangers), D. Feehan, Liam Griffin, Colman O Shea (1-3), Diarmuid O Sullivan (0-2), Adrian Hassett (Laune Rangers), Brendan Breen (1-0), Gerard Clifford (Laune Rangers), Alan Kerins, Shane O Sullivan, Michael Breen.

 

Final on Sat. 22^nd Nov. at Fitzgerald Stadium, Killarney: Tralee V.S. 4-13; Killorglin V.S. 0-5.

Killorglin V.S: John Foley, Danny Teahan, Brian Mangan, Donal Murphy, Anthony O Sullivan, Jeremiah O Sullivan, Liam Griffin, Diarmuid O Sullivan (capt.), Colman O Shea, Adrian Hassett, Brendan Breen, Michael Breen, Gerard Clifford, Alan Kerins, Shane O Sullivan. Subs: Mike Hassett for S. O Sullivan.

Ref: Tommy Sugrue (St. Pat’s).

 

Killorglin V.S. lost the Co. U-15B Final to Waterville and the Corn Uí Droma (U-16) to Castleisland.

Killorglin V.S. beat Causeway in the Co. Juvenile Ladies Football Final.

 

Munster Colleges Senior ‘C’ Football Championship

Final in mid-April at Glenflesk: Intermediate School, Killorglin, beat Patrician Academy, Mallow.

Intermediate School Panel (Laune Rangers except where stated): Mícheál Spillane (Beaufort), Adrian Cronin, Gerard Clifford, Frankie Brennan, Michael Corkery, Tommy Byrne (capt.), Michael Lynch, Kevin Clifford (Glenbeigh), Gerard O Sullivan, Patrick Curran, Ian O Shea (Beaufort), Kieran O Sullivan, Liam Spring (Milltown/Castlemaine), Eoin Joy, John Doona, Mark O Sullivan, Timmy Corkery, Billy O Sullivan, Patrick Costello, Kieran O Shea (Beaufort), John O Donnell.

 

Kerry Colleges Dunloe Cup (U-17)

Final on Wed. at Austin Stack Park: Intermediate School, Killorglin 2-11; Tarbert 1-5.

The Intermediate School, which had defeated St. Michael’s, Listowel, in the semi-final, were always in control. They were given a flying start when, county minor, Billy O Sullivan, scored a goal. Tarbert replied with a point from a free by Kieran Adams but further points by Timmy Corkery, David Lynch, Michael Lynch and Billy O Sullivan (2) gave them a comfortable eight points’ lead at halftime.

Full marks to Tarbert for fighting back in the second half. Donal Sheen and James Nolan scored two quick points for them after the restart and, although corner-forward, Kevin Clifford, had a nice point for Killorglin, Tarbert scored a goal from a close range free. There were then just four points between the teams but Billy O Sullivan sealed the issue for his side with a second goal. Apart from their forwards, others to shine for Killorglin were goalkeeper, Billy O Shea, fullbacks John O Donnell and Gary McGrath, and John Doona, who had a great game at midfield.

Intermediate School Panel (all Laune Rangers, except where mentioned): John O Donnell. Billy Dermody, Billy O Sullivan, Mícheál Spillane (Beaufort), Kieran O Shea (do.), John Doona, Gary McGrath (Beaufort), Nigel Reidy, Stephen Corkery, David Lynch (Beaufort), Kevin Clifford (Glenbeigh), Jason Griffin, Owen Corkery, Timmy Corkery, Pa Murphy, Billy O Shea, Owen Joy, Rory O Connor, Michael Lynch, Noel Conroy.

 

Third Level Football Competitions.

Trench Cup 1^st Rd. on Sat. 15^th Jan. at Tralee; Tralee RTC 3-10; UCC ‘B’ 0-7

Liam Foley played in goals for Tralee and Paul Griffin scored 0-2 from left full-forward (He was also fouled for a penalty, which was scored by Martin Dennehy, John Mitchel’s).

 

Munster Minor Football League

 

Kerry South trial on Sat. 12^th March at Killorglin: That was 12-a-side.

Team 1: Peter O Leary (Legion), Mark O Sullivan (Laune Rangers), Sean Fenton (do.), Barry Clifford (Derrynane), Bosco McGearailt (Kenmare), John B. O Brien (Beaufort), Leo Randles (Kenmare), Ian O Shea (Beaufort), Francis O Doherty (Spa), Liam Lynch (Kenmare), Tommy Byrne (Laune Rangers), Billy O Sullivan (do.).

Team 2: Kieran O Shea (Beaufort), Tom O Connor (Scartaglin), Francis Brennan (Laune Rangers), Timmy Corkery (Laune Rangers), Tomás Griffin (Legion), Donal O Donoghue (do.), Con Fleming (Currow), Johnny Brosnan (do.), Donal O Rahilly (Ballymac), Aidan O Shea (Dr. Croke’s), Kieran Prendiville (Desmonds), Sean O Shea (Kenmare).

 

Rd. 1 on Sat. 19^th March at Tipperary Town: Tipperary 0-5; Kerry South 1-9.

Kerry-South: Peter O Leary, Mark O Sullivan, Danny Cahill (Laune Rangers), Michael Dennehy (Rathmore), John Cronin (Waterville), Tomás Griffin, John B. O Brien, Leo Randles, Con Fleming, Ian O Shea, Francis O Doherty, Emmett Kelly (Sneem), Aidan O Shea, Tommy Byrne, Sean O Sullivan (Sneem). Subs: Barry Clifford for J. Cronin, Timmy Corkery for J. O Brien, Liam Lynch for I. O Shea, Billy O Sullivan for S. O Sullivan, Kieran Prendiville for T. Byrne, Peter Keane (St. Mary’s) for E. Kelly, Sean O Sullivan for P. Keane, John B. O Brien for M. Dennehy.

Danny Cahill was excellent at fullback. Mark O Sullivan played quite well. Tommy Byrne scored a point. Timmy Corkery played a very good game at wing back. Billy O Sullivan drove a penalty kick over the bar for a point.

Ref: Paddy Russell (Tipperary).

 

Rd. 2 on Sat. 26^th March at Buttevant: Kerry South 0-9; Waterford 2-3.

Tommy Byrne scored 0-1. Both Mark O Sullivan and Timmy Corkery played well in defence.

Kerry-South: Peter O Leary, Mark O Sullivan, Liam Spring (Milltown/Castlemaine), John B. O Brien, Timmy Corkery, Tomás Griffin, Barry Clifford, Leo Randles, D.D. O Rahilly, Ian O Shea, Francis O Doherty, Liam Lynch, Aidan O Shea, Tommy Byrne, Con Fleming. Subs: Emmett Kelly for L. Lynch, Sean O Sullivan (Sneem) for I. O Shea, Kieran Prendiville for T. Byrne, Paddy Hilliard (Keel) for B. Clifford), Dermot O Callaghan (Kilcummin) for C. Fleming.

 

Final on Mon. 4^th April at Killarney: Kerry-North 1-9; Kerry-South 1-8.

Kerry-North: Declan Whelan (Ballyduff), Peter Linehan (Finuge), Gerard Griffin (Lispole), Kieran O Donoghue (John Mitchel’s), Niall Savage (Kerins O Rahilly’s), Vincent Knightley (Annascaul), Kieran Brown (Austin Stack’s), Eamonn Stack (Moyvane), Sean Walsh (St. Senan’s), David Farrell (Annascaul), Pat Kelly (Emmetts), Benny Clifford (Churchill), Colm Geaney (Dingle), Pa Laide (Austin Stack’s), Michael O Connor (Ballyduff). Subs: Maurice O Carroll (Kerins O Rahilly’s) for C. Geaney, Brendan O Mahony (St. Senan’s) for M. O Connor.

Trainer/Selector – Seamus McGearailt. Selectors – Jim Wrenn and Robert Barry.

Kerry-South: Peter O Leary, Mark O Sullivan, Danny Cahill (capt.), Liam Spring, Timmy Corkery, Tomás Griffin, John B. O Brien, Con Fleming, D.D. O Rahilly, Liam Lynch, Francis O Doherty, Ian O Shea, Aidan O Shea, Tommy Byrne, Billy O Sullivan. Subs: Kieran Prendiville for F. Doherty (inj.), Sean O Shea for I. O Shea, Michael Dennehy for T. Corkery, Emmett Kelly, Leo Randles (inj.), Sean O Sullivan (inj.), Barry Clifford (suspended).

Of the Laune Rangers players, Billy O Sullivan scored 1-2, a point from a penalty, Danny Cahill, Tommy Byrne and Mark O Sullivan played well but Timmy Corkery did not play so well.

Trainer/Selector – Jerome Conway. Selector – Dan O Sullivan.

 

Munster/All-Ireland Minor Championship

The Kerry selectors were Seamus Mac Gearailt (trainer), Jim Wrenn (Churchill), Jerome Conway (Laune Rangers), Dan O Sullivan (Currow), Robert Stack (St. Senan’s)

 

Trial on Sat. 20^th Feb. at Currow: Kerry South v Kerry North.

Kerry-South (South-Kerry, Kenmare, Mid-Kerry, East-Kerry and Castleisland): Kieran O Shea (goals), Mark O Sullivan, Liam Spring, Tom O Connor, Bosco Mac Gearailt, Danny Cahill, John B. O Brien, Gerard O Connor (Glenbeigh/Glencar), Leo Randles, Ian O Shea, Con Fleming, Liam Lynch, Emmett Kelly, Tommy Byrne, Billy O Sullivan. Subs: Johnny Brosnan, Jimmy Scanlon (Currow), Sean O Shea, Kieran Prendiville, Michael Dennehy, D.J. Roche (Desmonds).

Kerry-North (North-Kerry, St. Brendan’s, Tralee and West-Kerry): Declan Whelan, Mickey O Connor (Gaeltacht), Gerard Griffin, Sean Walsh, Liam Flaherty (Ballydonoghue), Vincent Knightley, George Dee (Ballylongford), Fergus Stack (Beale), Fintan Ashe (Dingle), Michael O Connor, Gene Driscoll (Annascaul), Pat Kelly, Colm Geaney, David Farrell, Brendan O Mahony.

 

Trial on Sat. 27^th Feb. at Currow: Kerry-South v Kerry-North.

Kerry-South: Kieran O Shea, Bosco Mac Gearailt, Liam Spring, Tom O Connor, Johnny Brosnan, Gerard O Connor, John B. O Brien, Leo Randles, Seamus O Brien (Firies), Ian O Shea, Sean O Shea, Francis O Doherty, Emmett Kelly, Tommy Byrne, Billy O Sullivan. Subs: Con Fleming, D.J. Roche (Desmonds).

 

Trial on Sat. 9^th April at Killarney: Kerry A v Kerry B.

A: Peter O Leary, Mark O Sullivan, Kieran O Donoghue, Michael Dennehy, Johnny McCarthy (Gneeveguilla), Tomás Griffin, John B. O Brien, Eamonn Stack, Sean Walsh, Con Fleming, Pa Laide, Benny Clifford, Colm Geaney, Tommy Byrne, Billy O Sullivan.

B: Declan Whelan, Peter Linehan, Gerard Griffin, Michael Griffin (Churchill), Kieran Moynihan (John Mitchels), Vincent Knightley, George Dee, D.D. Rahilly, Niall Savage, Pat Kelly, Maurice O Carroll, David Farrell, Gene O Driscoll, Fintan Ashe, Michael Lynch (Austin Stack’s).

Subs: Danny Cahill, Sean O Sullivan. Aidan O Shea and Francis O Doherty were injured.

 

Rd. 1 on Wed. 27^th April at Askeaton: Limerick 1-1; Kerry 1-15.

Kerry: Peter O Leary, Peter Linehan, Sean Walsh, Gerard Griffin, Niall Savage, Danny Cahill, Liam O Flaherty, Eamonn Stack, D.D. Rahilly, Pa Laide, Pat Kelly, David Farrell, Colm Geaney, Maurice O Carroll, Billy O Sullivan. Subs: Francis O Doherty for M. O Carroll, Benny Clifford for P. Kelly, Con Fleming for B. O Sullivan, Tommy Byrne, John B. O Brien, Declan Whelan, Kieran Moynihan, Vincent Knightley. Billy O Sullivan scored 0-6 from frees.

 

Semi-final on Fri. 13^th May at Killorglin: Kerry 2-16; Waterford 1-3.

Kerry minor footballers showed that Fri. 13^th held no fear for them, when they handed out a thrashing to Waterford. In Laune Rangers centenary year, it was fitting that such an important game should be played in Killorglin. To add icing to the cake, Danny Cahill was to be the most impressive player on view. Twelve minutes into the game, Danny Cahill latched on to a Billy O Sullivan pass to blast the ball to the net. Eamon Stack played a good ball through the centre of the Waterford defence. The goalkeeper and John Hallagan had plenty of time to clear the ball but they were indecisive and Billy O Sullivan rushed in to dispossess them and crash the ball to the back of the net. Billy O Sullivan scored 1-4 from play and Danny Cahill scored 1-0.

Kerry: Peter O Leary, Peter Linehan, Gerard Griffin, Kieran Moynihan, Niall Savage, Sean Walsh, Liam Flaherty, Eamonn Stack (0-2), D.D. Rahilly (0-1), Pa Laide (0-4), Danny Cahill (capt.) 1-1, Francis O Doherty (0-2), Colm Geaney (0-2), David Farrell (0-1), Billy O Sullivan (1-3). Subs: Fintan Ashe for D. Farrell, Benny Clifford for F. O Doherty, Vincent Knightley for K. Moynihan, Pat Kelly, Tommy Byrne, Con Fleming, Maurice O Carroll, Declan Whelan.

Ref: Pat Donovan (Cork).

 

Trial on Sun. 29^th May at Tralee: Probables v Possibles.

Probables: Pat Kelly (deputised for Peter O Leary who was a late arrival), Gerard Griffin, Sean Walsh, John B. O Brien, Niall Savage, Liam O Flaherty, Kieran Moynihan, Leo Randles, D.D. Rahilly, Con Fleming, Tommy Byrne, David Farrell, Colm Geaney, Danny Cahill, Billy O Sullivan.

Possibles: Declan Whelan, Sean Walsh (Duagh), Colm Kennedy (Firies), Michael Griffin, Liam Spring, Vincent Knightley, Kieran Browne, Fintan Ashe, Sean O Shea, Aidan O Shea, Benny Clifford, Peter Keane, Sean O Sullivan, Maurice O Carroll, Brendan O Mahony.

Subs: Michael Lynch, D.J. Roche, Paul Donegan (Ballyduff), Francis O Doherty, Eamonn Stack. Pa Laide, Peter Linehan and T.J. O Connor (Ballyduff) were injured.

 

Trial on Mon. 6^th June at Tralee: Kerry U-21s 3-9; Kerry Minors 1-9.

Kerry Minors: Peter O Leary, Peter Linehan, Sean Walsh, T.J. O Connor, Niall Savage, Vincent Knightley, Liam O Flaherty, Eamonn Stack, Fintan Ashe, Pat Kelly, D.D. Rahilly, Michael Lynch, Colm Geaney, David Farrell, Billy O Sullivan. Subs: Sean O Sullivan, Tommy Byrne, Danny Cahill, Gerard Griffin, Kieran Moynihan, Pa Laide, Francis O Doherty. Con Fleming was injured and John B. O Brien was missing.

 

Challenge on Sat. 18^th June at Pearse Stadium, Galway: Galway 1-8; Kerry 2-8.

Danny Cahill played at centre half-forward and Billy o Sullivan at left full-forward.

Challenge on Sun. 19^th June at Castlegar: Galway 0-7; Kerry 4-14.

Tommy Byrne played at full-forward, Danny Cahill on the ‘40’ and Billy O Sullivan at left full-forward.

 

Final on Sun. 3^rd July at Páirc Uí Chaoimh: Cork 0-10; Kerry 1-8.

Danny Cahill had a great game both at centre half-forward and later at midfield. He scored Kerry’s opening point. Billy O Sullivan scored 0-2 in the second half.

Kerry: Peter O Leary, Peter Linehan, Niall Savage, John B. O Brien, Sean Walsh, Vincent Knightley, Liam Flaherty, D.D. Rahilly, Eamonn Stack, Pa Laide (1-1), Danny Cahill (capt.) 0-1, Francis O Doherty, Colm Geaney (0-3), Sean O Sullivan, Billy O Sullivan (0-2). Subs: Fintan Ashe for D.D. Rahilly (inj.), David Farrell (0-1) for F. O Doherty (inj.), T.J. O Connor for S. Walsh, Gerard Griffin, Pat Kelly, Tommy Byrne.

Cork: John Donegan, Maurice Angland, Frank Lyons, Ken O Neill, Ken Crowley, David Harty, John O Donovan, Kieran O Sullivan, Shane Bergin, Brendan O Shea, Jason Lynch, Donal Cronin, Colm Corkery, T.J. O Leary, Chris Collins. Subs: Sean Guiheen for C. Collins, Billy Hennigan for S. Guiheen.

Ref: Ray Moloney (Limerick).

Challenge on Sat. 16^th July at Ballybunion: Kerry 2-7; Mayo 1-11.

Kerry: Peter O Leary, Liam Flaherty, Niall Savage, John B. O Brien, T.J. O Connor, Vincent Knightley, Kieran Brown, Eamonn Stack, Sean Walsh, Sean O Sullivan, Danny Cahill, Michael Lynch, Colm Geaney, Tommy Byrne, Billy O Sullivan. Subs: Gerard Griffin for L. Flaherty, Fintan Ashe for E. Stack, Sean P. O Sullivan (Sneem) for S. Walsh, Pa Laide for M. Lynch, Maurice Carroll for T. Byrne.

 

Semi-final on Sun. 14^th Aug. at Croke Park: Kerry 1-8; Tyrone 0-10.

Billy O Sullivan scored 0-4, 3 from frees and he set up Fintan Ashe for the all-important goal about six minutes from fulltime. The ball ran loose out in the right corner of the Hogan Stand and brave Billy O Sullivan managed to get hold of it and, with lightning speed, he sprayed a perfect pass across to the waiting Fintan Ashe and the tall Dingle midfielder uncorked a rasping shot, which saw the ball speed into the net. Danny Cahill was another leading light in the attack.

Kerry: Peter O Leary, Peter Linehan, Niall Savage, John B. O Brien, Liam Flaherty, Vincent Knightley, Sean Walsh, Eamonn Stack (0-1), Fintan Ashe (1-1), Pa Laide (0-2, frees), Danny Cahill, Sean O Sullivan, Colm Geaney, David Farrell, Billy O Sullivan (0-4, 3 frees). Subs: Tommy Byrne for D. Cahill, Kieran Brown, T.J. O Connor, Pat Kelly, Con Fleming, Gerard Griffin.

Tyrone: Cathal Blee, E. McGale, C. McElduff (capt.), Fay Devlin, Paul Donnelly, Tony McGinn, Chris Fallon, Adrian Kilpatrick, Brendan Sherry, Adrian Cush (0-2, 1 free), Eamonn McCaffrey (0-2), Peter Canavan (0-4, frees), Brian Daly (0-1), Barry McGinn (0-1), Marcus Rafferty. Sub: Ciaran Loughran for B. Daly.

Ref: J. Woods (Dublin).

 

Final on Sun. 18^th Sept. at Croke Park: Kerry 2-5; Dublin 0-5.

Snippets from Eamonn Horan’s report in the Kerryman,

‘It was the Kerry half-forward line of Pa Laide, Danny Cahill and Sean O Sullivan who battered and broke the Dublin defensive barrier in the opening half.’

‘Laide, Cahill and O Sullivan weaved silken patterns as they sped goal-wards and they found willing accomplices inside them in the persons of dapper corner-forwards, Colm Geaney and Billy O Sullivan.’

‘Billy O Sullivan and Danny Cahill were prominent in Kerry onslaughts and it soon became evident that all was not well in the losers’ defence.’

‘In a dazzling movement, no fewer than five of the Kerry forwards handled the ball. Pa Laide began the piece of football sorcery and, in turn, the ball passed from him to Cahill to Billy O Sullivan and to Sean O Sullivan before reaching Geaney. The Dingle corner-forward dummied a defender before picking his spot and blasting the ball past the helpless Derek O Farrell in the Dublin goal.’

‘Then in the 47^th minute, Kerry virtually sealed victory when they struck for goal number 2. Another flowing movement saw Sean O Sullivan win possession, he found his namesake Billy O Sullivan with a sweet ball and the nimble-footed Laune Rangers’ corner-forward rounded an opponent before planting the ball in the net.’

Kerry: Peter O Leary, Peter Linehan, Niall Savage, John B. O Brien, Liam Flaherty, Vincent Knightley, Sean Walsh, Eamonn Stack, Fintan Ashe (0-1), Pa Laide (0-1), Danny Cahill, Sean O Sullivan (0-2), Colm Geaney (1-1), David Farrell, Billy O Sullivan (1-0). Subs: Francis O Doherty for D. Farrell, T. J. O Connor, Kieran Browne, Tommy Byrne, Gerald Griffin, Pat Kelly.

Dublin: Derek O Farrell, Padraic McManus, John Jordan, Conor Kavanagh, Tony O Boyle, Brendan Murray, Gearóid O Regan, David Quinlivan, Pat Cassells, Derek Howard, Brian Stynes, Tony Keogh, Dessie Farrell, Senan Moylan, Brian Barnes. Subs: Tony Gavigan for T. O Boyle, Sean Cahill for P. Cassells.

Ref: Michael Greenan (Cavan).

The reception accorded the team on its arrival in Killorglin on Monday evening was unprecedented. Bonfires blazed and crowds lined the streets as the players were brought by lorry through the town. The parade began at 11.20pm and it returned to the Square from Mountain View at 12.20am. It took some time for speeches to begin as the crowd roared, ‘We want Danny’. When Danny Cahill, easily one of the most popular minor captains of all time, appeared the cheering reached new heights. Jerome Conway introduced the Chairman of the Co. Board, Sean Kelly, and he addressed the multitude. So also did Séamus Mac Gearailt. The players were then introduced individually and Danny Cahill got a fantastic reception when he spoke. He praised his team-mates, the trainer, the selectors, the Co. Board and his club. He spoke of Jerome Conway fulsomely and he thanked James Sheehan and Tom Johnston who, as the men in charge of Laune Rangers’ minors the previous year, were responsible, through the team’s success, for his captaincy. Jerome Conway concluded that part of the celebrations with a rendition of ‘Danny Boy’ in honour of the captain. It was Laune Rangers first time producing an All-Ireland winning captain.

 

Munster/All-Ireland U-21 Championship

 

Kerry Trial on Sun. 14^th Feb. at Deerpark: Shane O Sullivan played well at wing back, Timmy Fleming scored 0-4 and Pat McKenna scored 2-0.

 

Trial on Sat. 20^th Feb. at Tralee: Shane O Sullivan, Timmy Fleming and Paul Griffin took part.

 

Challenge on Sat. 27^th Feb. at Dungarvan: Waterford v Kerry ‘A’.

James O Shea (Cromane) played at right halfback and Timmy Fleming played at left half-forward. Shane O Sullivan was a substitute.

Challenge on Sun. 28^th Feb. at Listowel: Kerry ‘B’ v Clare.

Shane O Sullivan played at left halfback. Paul Griffin was a substitute.

 

Semi-final on Wed. 13^th April at Tralee: Kerry 0-12; Cork 0-11.

“Corner-forward, Timmy Fleming, brought Kerry to within a point of their rivals in the first minute of the second half.” “Then in the 52^nd minute came a crucial score and it fell to Kerry. They were awarded a free just outside the 45 meters line and Timmy Fleming coolly stepped up and guided a magnificent kick straight between the posts to level the scores for the sixth time in the game. That score gave Kerry renewed confidence and they came hunting for a winning score. Fleming was wide with a sideline ball but, with five minutes remaining, Kerry struck again. Geaney, Looney, Breen and Fleming combined to open up the Cork defence but the latter was fouled in possession and Maurice Fitzgerald won the plaudits of the crowd when he pointed the following free to give Kerry the lead for the first time in this half.”

Kerry: Kieran Moran (Derrynane), Ken Savage (Kerins O Rahillys), Dan O Connor (John Mitchel’s), Morgan Nix (Kerins O Rahilly’s), Jerome Stack (Emmett’s), Eamonn Breen (Finuge) 0-1, Tom Walsh (Emmett’s), Anthony Gleeson (John Mitchel’s), Robbie O Dwyer (Waterville), Ger Looney (Gneeveguilla) 0-2, Maurice Fitzgerald (St. Mary’s) 0-6, 3 frees, Donal McEvoy (John Mitchel’s), Timmy Fleming (Laune Rangers) 0-2, one free, Cian Long (Fossa), Sean Geaney (Dingle) 0-1. Subs: Donal Culloty (Legion) for D. O Connor, Shane O Sullivan (Laune Rangers), Colm O Shea (Dr. Crokes), James O Shea (Cromane).

Cork: J. O Mahony (Nemo Rangers), N. Looney (Bishopstown), John Murphy (Glanmire), Michael Crowley (St. Michael’s), Conor Donovan (O Donovan Rossa), Mark O Connor (Bantry), Tony Griffin (Nemo Rangers) 0-1, free, Mossie Murphy (Kilshannig), Liam Honohan (Bishopstown), D. Fitzgerald (Carrigaline), Gabriel Lally (Kilmurry) 0-1, Paul Coleman (Grange) 0-1, P. Cahill (Bishopstown), John O Driscoll (Ballingeary) 0-1, Michael Mullins (Na Piarsaigh) 0-7, 6 frees. Subs: Don Davies (O Donovan Rossa) for P. Cahill, J. Allen (Naomh Abán) for N. Looney.

Ref: T. Maher (Waterford).

 

Final on Wed. 20^th April at Cooraclare: Clare 2-6; Kerry 0-14.

Kerry: Kieran Moran (capt.), Ken Savage, Morgan Nix, Shane O Sullivan, James O Shea, James Brosnan (Gneeveguilla), Tom Walsh, Anthony Gleeson, Maurice Fitzgerald (0-3), Ger Looney (0-1), Eamonn Breen (0-2), Timmy Fleming (0-1), Donal Culloty, Donal McEvoy (0-6), Sean Geaney. Subs: Robbie O Dwyer for S. O Sullivan, Cian Long for D. Culloty. Timmy Fleming was most impressive and scored a point.

 

All-Ireland Semi-final on Sun. 15^th May at Bruff: Kerry 2-8; Offaly 1-11.

Shane O Sullivan played at left halfback but was replaced in the second half. Timmy Fleming played at left half-forward and scored two points, one when he blazed a penalty over the bar.

 

All-Ireland Semi-Final (replay) at Bruff on Fri. 10^th June: Offaly 2-7; Kerry 1-9.

Kerry: Kieran Moran, Ken Savage, Sean Clarke, Morgan Nix, Jimmy Keane, James Brosnan, Shane O Sullivan, Anthony Gleeson, Eamonn Breen, Ger Looney (0-1), Maurice Fitzgerald (0-5), Timmy Fleming (0-1), Sean Geaney (1-0), Donal McEvoy (0-2), Donal Culloty. Sub: Robbie O Dwyer for S. O Sullivan.

 

Munster Senior Football Championship

 

Challenge on Sat. 5^th March at Listowel: Kerry 2-9; Limerick 2-11. Joe Shannon played well at centre half-forward and Gerard Murphy scored 0-2 from left full-forward.

 

Trial on Thurs. 17^th March at Lispole: Kerry Seniors 1-6; Kerry U-21’s 0-2.

The game had to be abandoned ten minutes into the second half because of the torrential rain. Joe Shannon played at right half-forward on the senior team. James O Shea (Cromane) played at right fullback on the U-21 team, Shane O Sullivan at right halfback and Timmy Fleming at left half-forward.

 

Charity game on Sun. 24^th April at London: London 3-5; Kerry 4-20.

Joe Shannon played at right half-forward and Gerard Murphy at left full-forward, from which he scored 2-3.

 

Challenge on Sun. 1^st May at Ardfert: Kerry 0-10; Mayo 1-10.

Timmy Fleming played at right half-forward and Gerard Murphy at left full-forward.

 

Challenge on Sun. 15^th May at Tralee: Kerry 1-9; Roscommon 1-16.

Gerard Murphy played at left full-forward.

 

‘Goal’ Charity game on Sun. 22^nd May at Tralee: Kerry ’78 4-6; Kerry ’88 1-11.

Timmy Fleming played at left half-forward and Gerard Murphy at left full-forward, scoring 0-2.

 

Semi-final on Sun. 29^th May at Tralee: Kerry 3-19; Waterford 1-7.

Gerard Murphy played very well at left full-forward, scoring one point but being, also, very much involved in the making of other scores.

 

Challenge on Sun. 5^th June at Waterville: Kerry 3-12; Monaghan 0-10.

Gerard Murphy stood out at left full-forward, scoring a great goal.

 

Causeway Field Opening on Sun. 12^th June: Kerry 1-10; Dublin 0-14.

Gerard Murphy scored 1-0 from left full-forward.

 

Challenge on Sun. 19^th June at Navan: Meath 1-8; Kerry 1-8.

Gerard Murphy gave his marker a torrid time, scoring 0-3 from left full-forward before being withdrawn to be rested and replaced by Anthony Gleeson.

 

Trial on Sun. 26^th June at Fitzgerald Stadium: Probables 2-18; Possibles 1-6.

Gerard Murphy scored 0-3 for the Probables from left full-forward, while Timmy Fleming, playing at left half-forward for the Possibles, scored 1-3.

 

Final on Sun. 3^rd July at Páirc Uí Chaoimh: Cork 1-14; Kerry 0-16.

Kerry: Charlie Nelligan, Mick Spillane, Tom Spillane, Morgan  Nix, Tommy Doyle (0-1), Ambrose O Donovan, Ger Lynch, Jack O Shea (0-1), Dermot Hannifin, Michael McAuliffe (0-1), Connie Murphy (0-1), Maurice Fitzgerald (0-10, 7 frees), Willie Maher (0-1), Pat Spillane (0-1), Gerard Murphy. Subs: Ger Power for W. Maher, Eoin Liston for C. Murphy, Joe Shannon for D. Hannifin.

Cork: John Kerins, Tony Davis, Niall Cahillane, Denis Walsh, Tony Nation (capt.), Conor Counihan, Stephen O Brien, Teddy McCarthy, Shay Fahy (0-1), Paul McGrath (0-1), Larry Tompkins (0-5, 2 frees), John O Driscoll (0-1), Denis Allen (1-1), Dave Barry (0-2), Michael McCarthy (0-2). Subs: Colm O Neill (0-1, free) for D. Barry, Barry Coffey for J. O Driscoll.

Ref: Pat Lane (Limerick).

 

National Football League 1987/’88

 

Challenge on Sun. 17^th Jan. at Ballybunion: Kerry 1-8; Clare 1-9.

Paudie Sheahan played at centre halfback, Timmy Fleming at left half-forward and Gerard Murphy at left full-forward.

 

Trial on Sun. 24^th Jan. in Ballybunion: Kerry ‘A’ 1-11; Kerry ‘B’ 2-8.

Joe Shannon played at left half-forward for Kerry ‘A’ and Paudie Sheahan came on as a substitute at centre halfback. Timmy Fleming played at left half-forward on the ‘B’ team and Gerard Murphy at left full-forward.

 

Challenge on Sun. 31^st Jan. at Ballybunion: Kerry v Cork.

Joe Shannon played at left half-forward and Gerard Murphy at left full-forward.

 

Sun. 7^th Feb. at Ballinascreen: Derry 0-10; Kerry 0-5.

Joe Shannon began at right half-forward in a game that was played in appalling weather conditions but was replaced by Jack O Shea in the second half.

 

Sun. 14^th Feb. at Killarney: Kerry Mayo

Gerard Murphy was selected as a substitute.

 

Sun. 28^th Feb. at Clones: Monaghan 0-10; Kerry 0-9.

Gerard Murphy played at left full-forward and scored 3 points.

 

National Football League 1988/89

 

Rd. 1 on Sun. 23^rd Oct. at Newcastle: Down 1-11; Kerry 0-6.

Kerry: Kieran Moran, Eamonn Walsh, Michael Brosnan, Jack O Connell, Eamonn Breen, Tommy Doyle, Connie Murphy, Tom Spillane, Timmy Brosnan, John Kennedy, Maurice Fitzgerald (0-3), J. J. Canty, Pat Spillane (capt.), Jack O Shea (0-1), Gerard Murphy (0-2). Subs: Michael McAuliffe for J.J. Canty, Niall Savage for E. Breen, Noel O Leary for J. Kennedy.

Down: Pat Donnan, D.J. Kane, A. McAulfield, P. Mahon, Conor Deegan, Colm Byrnes, Ross Carr, Eamonn Byrnes, Barry Breen, John Treanor (0-4), M. O Hare, Cathal Murray (0-4), Kieran Smyth (0-1), Liam Austin, Mickey Linden (1-0). Subs: Barry McGovern for R. Carr, Donal Bell (0-2) for L. Austin, B. Mason for M. O Hare.

Ref: D. Campbell (Fermanagh).

 

Trial game in Beaufort on Sat. 19^th Nov. – Timmy Fleming, Gerard Murphy and James O Shea (Cromane) were invited to attend.

A further trial was held on Sat. 26^th Nov. in Kerins O Rahillys Field – Gerard Murphy was invited to attend.

 

Rd. 4 on Sun. 4^th Dec. at Athletic Grounds, Armagh: Armagh 1-5; Kerry 1-12.

Gerard Murphy started in lively fashion and took his point well but he faded from the picture thereafter. Timmy Fleming, whilst at times finding the going fairly tough, turned in a sound, industrious performance and looked like he had quiet a lot to contribute to the future of Kerry football.

Kerry: Charlie Nelligan, Ken Savage, Tommy Spillane, Ger Lynch, Connie Murphy, Ambrose O Donovan, Eamonn Walsh, Anthony Gleeson, Dermot Hannifin, Timmy Fleming, Maurice Fitzgerald (1-3, 3 frees), John Kennedy (0-4), Gerard Murphy (0-1), Eoin Liston (0-1), Pat Spillane (0-2). Sub: Michael McAuliffe (0-1) for G. Murphy.

Armagh: Brian McAlinden, Brian Canavan (0-1), T. Cassidy, Colm Harney, G. O Neill, John Grimley (0-1), Peter Rafferty, Niall Smyth, Mark Grimley, Declan Canavan (1-2, 2 frees), Kieran McGurk, Martin Toye (0-1), Martin McQuillan, Fergal Harney, Jimmy McConville. Subs: M. Lennon for P. Rafferty, Jarlath Burns for K. McGurk.

Ref: Gerry McClory (Antrim)

 

Co. Senior Hurling Championship

The Laune Rangers players played with South-Kerry.

 

Rd. 1 on Fri. 15^th July at Killarney: South-Kerry 0-2; Causeway 2-21.

Joe Kennedy played at right half-forward.

 

Co. Senior Hurling League Div. 3

 Laune Rangers players Joe Kennedy, Jerry Foley and Richard O Connor played with St. Mary’s.

 

East Kerry Senior Hurling League (11-a-side)

 

At the end of April in Rathmore: Rathmore 3-10; Laune Rangers 3-2.

At the beginning of May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 2-7; Legion 1-3.

First Round Losers’ Group Final: Firies defeated Laune Rangers.

 

Co. Minor Hurling Championship

 

Rd. 1 on Fri. 22^nd July at Austin Stack Park: Kilmoyley 7-11; Laune Rangers 1-6.

 

Co. Minor Hurling League (Div. 2)

 

Rd. 1 on Sun. 3^rd April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers beat St. Mary’s (Firies).

Timmy Corkery was the star performer.

Laune Rangers: Paudie O Shea, David Gillespie, Tommy Byrne, Noel Conroy, Gerard Hearne, Cormac Kennedy (John Mitchel’s), Brian Mangan, Mark O Sullivan, Sean Fenton, Michael Lynch, Padraig Lynch, Timmy Corkery, Adrian O Connor, Patrick Costello, Gerard Clifford.

 

Rd. 2 on Sun. 10^th April at Lixnaw: Lixnaw 3-1; Laune Rangers 4-6.

Outstanding displays were given by Tommy Byrne, Cormac Kennedy, Brian Mangan and Sean Fenton.

 

Rd. 3 on Sun. 17^th April at Abbeydorney: Abbeydorney 3-4; Laune Rangers 2-2.

 

Rd. 4 on Sun. 1^st May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers w/o; Causeway scr.

 

Final on Sun. 15^th May at Tralee:  Laune Rangers 3-5; Abbeydorney 3-2.

The lead changed hands on several occasions but Laune Rangers, a great hearted side, never gave up and, in the end, were worthy winners.

Laune Rangers: Michael Lynch, David Gillespie, Liam Spring (Milltown/Castlemaine), Noel Conroy, Gerard Hearne, Cormac Kennedy, Mark O Sullivan, Sean Fenton, Brian Mangan (0-2), Timmy Corkery (0-2), Tommy Byrne, Timmy Linehan, Padraig Lynch, Patrick Costello (2-0), Billy O Sullivan. Subs: Cormac Kennedy (0-1), Adrian O Connor (1-0), Gerard Clifford, Alan Fitzpatrick, Paudie O Shea, Kevin O Leary, P. Foley.

 

Féile na nGael (U-14 Hurling)

Laune Rangers were grouped with Kenmare, St. Pat’s and St. Mary’s.

Rd.1 on Sun. 3^rd April at Killorglin: St. Mary’s beat Laune Rangers.

Rd. 2 on Sun. 10^th April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers lost to St. Pat’s.

Rd. 2 on Sun. 17^th April at Kenmare: Kenmare w/o; Laune Rangers scr.

 

Kenmare U-12 Hurling Div. 2B

At the beginning of May: Laune Rangers beat St. Pat’s and St. Mary’s but lost the final to Kenmare.

 

Administration/Miscellany

 

John Dowling, Uíbh Fháillí, was elected Uachtarán CLG.

Annual Congress was held in Bundoran on the weekend 26^th/27^th March. James Coffey was on the Kerry delegation.

 

The 84^th Annual Munster Convention was held in Waterford on Sat. 27^th Feb. The following officers were elected: President – Mícheál Ó Ruairc, Chairman – Michael O Connor (Ciarraí), Secretary – Donie Nealon (Tiobrad Árainn), Treasurer – Tadhg Crowley (Ciarraí). James Coffey was on the Kerry delegation.

 

The Annual Convention of the Kerry Co. Board was held in the Gleneagle Hotel, Killarney on Sun. 17^th Jan. The following officers were elected: President – Mícheál Ó Ruairc, Chairman – Sean Kelly, Vice-Chairman – Bernie O Callaghan, Secretary – Tony O Keeffe, Joint Treasurers – James Coffey and John McMahon, Central Council Delegate – Gerald McKenna, Munster Council Delegates – Dave Geaney and Gerald Whyte, Oifigeach na Gaeilge – Diarmuid Ó Murchú, PRO – Eamonn O Sullivan, Development Officer – Sean Walsh (Frank King, Tom Keane, Pat Favier and Derry Murphy had also been nominated but withdrew), Youth Officer – Joe Langan 128 votes (Michael McCarthy 124 votes and Donie O Leary, Rathmore, had withdrawn).

Senior Football Selection Committee: Mick O Dwyer (appointed), Kevin Griffin, Tim Kennelly, Liam Higgins and Eddie O Sullivan (Mickey O Sullivan had withdrawn, Joe Keohane had died and Jackie Walsh had withdrawn his name).

Minor Football Selection Committee: Séamus Mac Gearailt, Jim Wrenn, Jerome Conway, Robert Barry and Dan O Sullivan.

U-21 Football – Buddy O Grady (appointed),

The Laune Rangers delegates were Jerome Conway, Tommy Woods, Michael Foley, Liam Shannon, John Purcell and Pat Finnegan. Laune Rangers had two motions on the ‘clár’:

1. ‘That in the event of a club team failing to win the Co. Senior Football Championship, the runners-up, if a club team, should be nominated to represent Ciarraí in the Munster Club Championship.’ Jerome Conway, proposing, said that it was an enormous task for any club team winning its way to the county championship final and that should be acknowledged by affording the runners-up, in the case of a club team being defeated by a divisional team, the opportunity to represent the county in the competition. The motion was defeated.
2. ‘That when a club team fails to reach the Co. Senior Football Championship final, the winners of Division 1 Co. League should be nominated to represent Ciarraí in the Munster Club Championship.’ Jerome Conway, proposing, admitted that since the Convention had voted to retain the Club Championship, that motion would be seen to be anti-club championship. The motion was beaten.

 

Eamonn O Sullivan was re-appointed as Chairman of the Co. Referees Committee and Bart Moriarty was Secretary.

James Coffey was appointed Chairman of the Co. Finance Committee with Joihn McMahon as Secretary.

 

At the Co. Board meeting on Mon. 23^rd Nov. it was decided to appoint John Fitzpatrick, formerly of Killorglin Hurling Club, as trainer of the Co. Minor Hurling team.

 

The Annual Convention of Bord na nOg Chiarraí was held in the Pavilion, Austin Stack Park on Mon. 11^th Jan. The following officers were elected: President – Sylvie Mason, Chairman – Derry Sheehan, Vice-Chairman – John Fitzpatrick, Secretary – Maurice O Sullivan, Treasurers – Bernie O Connor and Michael McSweeney, Fixtures Secretary – Paudie County, Registrar – Michael O Callaghan, PRO – Seamus Rafter, GPC – Patsy Cremin, John Mike McCarthy, Finbarr Carrig, Liam Ó Rócháin.

 

The AGM of the Mid-Kerry Board was held on Sun. 24^th Jan. in the old National School, Cromane. The Chairman, Michael McCarthy, welcomed all the delegates to the meeting. He said that he would not be intimidated or prevented from taking difficult decisions in 1988, despite the fact that he could be got at because of his business commitments. He made the comments in relation to a decision made by the Board in 1987 that all members had to produce membership cards attending games in Killorglin. The decision was not well received in all quarters and one member allegedly displayed his dissatisfaction with the decision by hitting Mr. McCarthy’s business. The following officers were elected: President – Murt Kelly (Beaufort); Chairman – Michael McCarthy (Milltown/Castlemaine); Vice-Chairman – Noel Spillane (Beaufort); Treasurers – Maurice Harmon (Laune Rangers), Frank Twiss (Milltown/Castlemaine) and George Evans (Keel); PRO – John Dowling (Keel), Secretary – Pat Clifford (Milltown/Castlemaine). Milltown/Castlemaine proposed a motion, ‘That the Senior Championship be run on a knockout system.’ The motion was defeated by 18 votes to 6.

 

The minutes of six Mid-Kerry Board meetings are available, mostly for the purpose of fixture-making. The only matter that transpired, affecting Laune Rangers at the meetings was:

Wed. 25^th May, it was decided, in response to a request from Laune Rangers, to give £200 towards the cost of producing the club’s history book.

 

Cromane Club was charged with organising Bord na nOg Chiarraí Láir in 1988. Frank Walsh was Chairman and Michael Healy was Secretary.

 

Laune Rangers Club held 12 meetings during the year. The following matters were discussed:

Mon. 15^th Feb: Officers of the Hurling Club were ratified as follows:

Chairman – Bart Moriarty; Vice-Chairman – John Purcell, Secretary – Pat Lynch (James Coffey did not seek re-election), Treasurer – James Coffey, Delegate to Co. Board – Pat Lynch.

The trainers of the various underage teams were as follows: U-12 – Joe Crowe and Maurice Lynch, U-14 – Joe Purcell and Joe Kennedy, U-16 & minors – John Purcell, Paddy Creagh and Brendan Hearne. Bart Moriarty thanked the Laune Rangers club for its interest in hurling. He had a special word of praise for John Purcell, who, he said, was not getting the effort from the players. Jerome Conway reported from the previous two Co. Board meetings. Cromane had applied to play with Mid-Kerry in the Co. Championship. They had complained that they were not getting fair treatment from Laune Rangers, as they had been refused a selector on the team. Sean Kelly, Co. Chairman, had agreed to meet both clubs on the matter. He had pointed out to Laune Rangers that, if they won the Co. SFC, they would not be able to represent Kerry in the Munster Club Championship as they would be classed as a group team. Laune Rangers replied that, as they wanted to represent Kerry, they would win the Club Championship on their own.

Mon. 29^th Feb – A meeting was to be organised with Austin O Reilly to discuss the possibility of obtaining a lease by the club on the Vocational Schools’ pitches.

Wed. 16^th March – Whereas satisfaction was expressed at the progress made with the launching of the history of the club, very little had been done in preparation for the actual centenary itself. An effort by Cromane to play with Glenbeigh/Glencar in the Co. Minor Football League was stymied at Co. Board level.

Thurs. 7^th April – A sub-committee of the Centenary Committee was formed, which would focus on the celebrations for the centenary of the club, outside of the publishing of the history of the club. James Coffey was Chairman, Tommy Woods was Secretary, and the other members were Liam Shannon, Michael Foley, Joe Crowley and Conor O Mahony. Paudie Sheahan began working in the JP O Sullivan Park on Mon. 11^th April under the Manpower Scheme. The field was spiked at a cost of £900 and 3 lorry-loads of sand were brushed into the surface at the same time.

Mon. 18^th April – The club was adamant that it should celebrate its centenary in style. Some of the plans for the event were discussed. The dreaded pub-talk had again raised its ugly head and the Chairman undertook to address the situation.

Tues. 10^th May – The main topic of readiness was the Munster Minor Football Championship, Kerry v Waterford. Volunteers were allotted to look after the various areas, parking, members’ gate, press-box, score-board, main gate, pitch gates, P.A., field-marking, etc. Pat Finnegan announced that a sizeable amount of National Lottery money was available for a suitable project in the Killorglin area. The Secretary was appointed to speak to John O Donoghue, T.D., on the matter of the dressing-rooms.

Sat. 21^st May – After a long discussion, it was decided not to pursue the Sports Complex as the venue for the Centenary Banquet as there would be too much hassle in building a stage and operating a bar. A meeting between the Chairman, Secretary, Pat Finnegan and John O Donoghue T.D. was arranged for Fri. 27^th May.

Whereas a number of Centenary Sub-Committee meetings were held, many of the club meetings held after June were taken up with Centenary Celebration matters.

Centenary Sub-Committee meeting on 14^th April – James Coffey, Chairman, informed the meeting that Killorglin Credit Union was willing to sponsor the 7-a-side tournament. Londis (Patrick O Grady) was willing to sponsor the history launch. Lee Strand was willing to sponsor the 4-team 15-a-side tournament. The following clubs were invited to take part in the 7-a-side tournament on 1^st Aug: Milltown/Castlemaine, Keel, Beaufort, Glenbeigh/Glencar, Cromane, Laune Rangers, Dr. Crokes, Ballymac, Finuge, Lispole, John Mitchels, Kenmare, Austin Stacks, Listry, Valentia and The Kingdom, London. The following clubs were invited to play in the 4-team tournament on 24^th/25^th Sept: Ballymun Kickhams, Avondhu, Midleton and Laune Rangers. The confined Sports meeting was scheduled for 31^st July. The Centenary Mass would be celebrated on 31^st July. There would be an U-12 hurling blitz in Mid-June. The Ladies Football game was scheduled for 9^th/16^th Oct. The Golf Tournament was scheduled for 10^th Sept. at Dooks. In order to publicise the fact that 1988 was the centenary year of the club, two banners would be erected in the town, one at the AIB corner and one at the JP O Sullivan Park. The two-sided banners would read ‘1888 Laune Rangers GAA Centenary 1988.’ Both banks were approached to hold an exhibition of club memorabilia in their premises. The art competition on GAA affairs was scheduled for the primary schools in the parish prior to the summer holidays. An essay competition on GAA topics for post-primary pupils would be held after the summer holidays.

Laune Rangers Centenary Draw results (The contribution was £5 per month for 12 months or £55 in total):

November 1987 – £400 John Dunlea, Iveragh Park, £100 Sheila McCall, c/o Christy’s Tavern, £100 Christy and Mary Clifford, Muingaphouca, £50 Bríd Moriarty, Dunmaniheen, £50 John Clifford, Dromin, Special £100 prize John O Reilly, Rangue.

December 1987 – £400 Pat Galvin, Ardmoniel, £100 Con Corkery, c/o Klinge, £100 Denis Russell, Anglont, £50 John Horgan, The Square, £50 Michael O Sullivan, 32 Iveragh Park.

January Draw – £400 Michael O Connor, Rattoo, Listowel, £100 Daniel Clifford, Ardmoniel, £100 Thomas O Shea, Mountain View, £50 Maura O Boyle/Byrnes, Main Street, £50 John A. O Brien, Caragh Lake.

February Draw – £400 Eileen Murphy, Mountain View, £100 Ollie O Brien, Laune View, £100 Eric Champ, the Square, £50 Tony Foley, Dungeel, £50 Donal Pigott, Dromin.

March – £400 Ted and Joan Curran, Coolbane, £100 Mrs. Clifford, Dromin, £100 Pat Joy, Caragh Lake, £50 Mrs. Kitty Costello, 27 Mountain View, £50 Marjorie McGillycuddy, Dungeel.

April Draw – £400 John Moriarty, Parkalasa, Kilgobnet, £100 Siobhán Foley, Anglont, £100 John Quirke, Rangue, £50 Christy Kissane, c/o Cock Tavern, Kilburn, £50 Austin O Reilly, Dunmaniheen.

May Draw – £400 Timmy Moroney, Killarney Road, £100 Patrick F. Costello, Douglas, £100 Brendan Foley, Bansha, £50 James Coffey, Lower Bridge Street, £50 Johnny O Sullivan, Iveragh Park.

June Draw – £400 Donie O Sullivan, Tralee, £100 Jack Reen, Mountain View, £100 Michael O Sullivan, Tullig, £50 Mrs. Kay Prendiville, Sunhill, £50 Liam Shannon, Mountain View, £50 Mrs. Bridie O Shea, Langford St.

August Draw – £400 John Begley, Iveragh Road, £100 John O Riordan, Upper Tullig, £100 Mike Landers, c/o Burlington, £50 Sonny Maher, c/o Killarney M.W. Co, £50 Pat Foley, 4 Laune View.

September Draw – £400 Eileen Clifford, Dromin, £100 Aine Joy, Cromane, £100 Ann Murphy, Iveragh Park, £50 Liam Crowley, Laharn, £50 James Harmon, Laune View.

October Draw – £400 Mick Ahern, St. James’ Gardens, £100 Maria Hayes, St. James’ Gardens, £100 Pat Twiss, Callanfersy, £50 Liam Foley, St. Mary’s Terrace, £50 Mrs. Gill, Langford Street.

After the final draw, the promoters were guests of the Laune Rangers Club at a most enjoyable function in the Manor Inn on Sat. 17^th Dec. The function was followed by a free dance for all supporters, players and subscribers, during which the minor hurlers were presented with their Co. League medals and the minor footballers with their Co. Championship medals. It was a special ‘thank you’ night to bring to a close the Laune Rangers’ Centenary Year. The promoters were as follows: James Coffey, James Ferris, Liam Shannon, James Murphy, Jerome Conway, Michael Foley, Bertie Houlihan, Michael O Sullivan, Maurice Corkery, Josie Fenton, Myles O Brien, Mike Hassett, Jim Galvin, Joe O Sullivan, Brian O Shea, Tom Johnston, John Purcell, Pat Pigott, Tommy Woods, Edward Stack, Bart Moriarty, Sean O Reilly, Maurice Harmon, Johnny Galvin, Patrick O Shea, Shane O Sullivan, Jimmy Hayes, Pat O Mahony (London), Pat Ahern (Newcastlewest), Christy Kissane (London), Gene Ferris (Kilcloon, Meath), Noel Lucey (Glenflesk), Matty Cahill, Denis O Neill, Bernie O Riordan (Killarney), Jimmy Foley (Farranfore), Anthony O Sullivan (Kildare), Mrs. Eileen O Sullivan (Glenashe).

The promoters’ system worked very well and most townlands in the parish were canvassed. The following is a list of those who subscribed fully to the Laune Rangers’ Centenary Draw:

Dromin – Johnny Doona, Teddy Mangan, Jimmy Doona, John Clifford, Eileen Clifford, Patrick Clifford, Mrs. Michael Clifford, John Curran.

Bansha – Eddie Langford, Timmy Conway, Jerome O Regan, Jerome Conway, Brendan Foley (Beechville), Con Corkery.

Tinnahalla – Bill Hearne, John Langford.

Steelroe – Jeremiah Clifford, Maurice Geary, Sean McKenna, Michael Curran.

Corbally – Tom Foley.

Nauntenaune – Pat & Mike Dennehy.

Coolbane – Susan McCarthy, Teddy Flynn, Flor McCarthy, Kathleen & Joe Cronin, Thomas McGillycuddy, Ted & Joan Curran, John M. Foley.

Dungeel – Jack O Sullivan, Evelyn Foley, Tom Johnston, Mícheál Johnston, James Ferris, Tony Foley, Marjorie McGillycuddy, James Johnston, Charlie Johnston, Johnny Heffernan, Mary Ferris, Kitty Scott.

Anglont – Jerry Coffey, Tom Foley, Kathleen Foley (Anglont Cottage), Frank Russell, Sean Foley, Christopher Foley, Siobhan Foley, Mary Foley, Mick Murphy,

Lismacfinnan – Síle O Connor.

Dunmaniheen – Paudie Foley, Brian McCarthy, Donal O Meara, Timmy Moroney, Eamonn Crowley, Willie Fitzgerald, Austin O Reilly, Marie Clifford, Tom Curtayne, Jim Burns (AIB), Bart Moriarty, Bríd Moriarty, Enda Curtayne, Barry Harmon.

Reeks’ View – Nora Evans, Herbert Poff, Alan Poff.

Dromavalla – Sean O Sullivan, Pat Lynch, Sean & Marguerite O Sullivan.

Clooncarrig – Mike & Peg Brosnan.

Laune View – Maurice Harmon, Tom Harris, Patrick & Jenny Pigott, Andy & Maureen Pigott, Sheila & Freda Purcell, John & Bridie Purcell, Marion Madden, Patrick O Connor, Johnny McKenna, John Sheehan, Den and Esther Corkery, Marion Russell, Bertie & Mary Harmon, Bernard Jones, Liam Foley, James & Maria Tobin, Richard Morrisson, Philomena O Brien, Paul McMahon, Chrissie Rochfort, Kieran Griffin, Derek & Noelette Foley, Pa Foley, James Harmon.

Lower Bridge Street – Noel Lucey (Shamrock Bar), PJ Foley, Jackie O Shea, Ray Sheehy (Bianconi Inn), Liam Burke, Nelly Foley, Brendan O Reilly, Declan Falvey, Dermot Foley, James Coffey.

The Square – Donal Sheahan, Tom Moriarty, Joe Crowley (pharmacy), Eric Champ, Donal Pigott, Francie Sheahan, Neillie Doona, Sean Murphy, John O Sullivan (Forge), Paudie Sheahan, Dermot O Shea (Fexco), Liam Woods, John Horgan, Denis O Neill.

Upper Bridge Street – James O Connor (Solicitor), Frankie Corkery, Mrs. Ella Houlihan, Catherine O Brien, Matty Cronin, Maria O Shea (dry-cleaners), Teddy Clifford (veterinary surgeon), Eileen Corkery (knitwith), Stephen O Grady.

Iveragh Road – John Foley, Michael Ahern, Yvette Jegouso, John Begley, Michael O Shea (Manor Inn), John O Dwyer, Marion Lyons, Ger Counihan (Bunkers), Jerry Cronin (Bunkers), Sean Moriarty, Joe O Sullivan, Pa Foley, Mike Flynn, Peter Lyons, Catherine O Sullivan (Spar), Bartley Moriarty, Anthony Foley.

Mill Road – Ann Murphy, Pa O Grady (Londis), Anthony Shannon (Casualand), Steve Joe Cahillane, Gerry Houlihan, Peggy O Donnell.

Market Street – Paddy Crowley, Maura O Boyle Byrnes, Willie Crowley, Eddie O Donoghue, Paul Kingston, Dominic Crowley, Rev. Father Pat McCarthy, Rev. Father Tom Leen.

Langford Street – Brendan Breen, Rhetta O Shea, Gina Sheehan, James Sheehan, Jacqueline McGillycuddy, Tom O Sullivan, Eileen O Riordan, Sheila McCall (Christy’s Tavern), Phil Brown, Bernadette O Mahony, Bridie O Shea, Peter Gill, Mary Teahan, Pat Clifford, Patsy Cronin, Donal Mangan, Noel O Mahony, Mark Freeman.

Glenashe – Gearoid O Sullivan, Sheila Kelliher, John & Eileen O Sullivan.

St. James’ Gardens – Ernie Brick, John Ahern, Jerry Coffey, Tony Jones, Jimmy McMahon, Siobhán Walker, John Sheehan, Mick Ahern, Pat o Sullivan, Jimmy Hayes, Tom O Brien, Maria Hayes.

Mountain View – Liam Shannon, Eileen Murphy, Maurice Lynch, Bernie O Connor, Margaret Byrne, Jack Reen, Mrs. O Sullivan, Ann Hogan, Kitty Costello, Gerard Murphy, Mrs. Hannon, Michael Sweeney, Christy Jones, Seamus Murphy, Stephen O Sullivan, Patsy O Sullivan, Batty Foley, Tom O Shea, Stephen Corkery, Patsy Clifford, Frank Buckley, Caroline Shannon.

Iveragh Park – Veronica O Connor, Donie O Connell, Denny Cronin, Hilda Coffey, Francis McCaffrey, Mary Cronin, Pat Murphy, Liam Russell, Johnny O Sullivan, Seamus O Sullivan, Pa Fleming, Davy O Shea, Cornelius O Connor, Derry O Brien, James Murphy, John Dunlea, Maureen Gamble, Michael O Sullivan, Mike Murphy, Donal O Connell, Margaret O Sullivan, Johnny Poff, Kathleen Finnegan, Pat O Riordan, Ann Murphy, Mike Moriarty.

Castleconway – Con Griffin, Siobhan Gallagher, Canon M. Keane, Francis Mangan, Karen Boyle.

Ballymacprior – Eric Brick, Liam Brick.

Reen – Sean Corkery, Patie Foley, Margaret O Connor, Cathal Foley, Deirdre O Donoghue, Mrs. Bridget Tangney, c/o M. Foley, Kathleen Foley (senior), Michelle Foley, Mary Griffin, John Foley.

Knocklyne – Dr. Colm Gillespie, Tony Lyons.

Gurrane – John Costello, Andrew Griffin, Christy Fitzgerald, Seamus Hurley, Jerry Griffin, Eileen Houlihan, Ted & Mary Houlihan, Michael J. Griffin.

Douglas – Timmy Corkery, Patrick F. Costello, Thomas Walsh, Amy Houlihan,

Sunhill – Patrick Curran, Sandra Khan, Jerry Foley, Pierce Prendiville, Declan Mangan, Mícheál Scanlon, Tom Melia, Patrick O Shea, Mrs. O Shea, Mrs. Prendiville, Denis Lynch, Redmond Fitzgerald, Michael Fleming, Dan O Shea.

Railway Terrace – Catherine O Connell, Eileen Bainton, Christy O Riordan, Mrs. O Connor.

Tullig Cross – Denis Riordan,

Tulligmore – Ann Buckley, Michael J. Hoare, Anthony Houlihan.

Lonart – Patsy Joy, Brian O Sullivan.

Tullig – Michael O Sullivan (Forest View),

Upper Tullig – John Riordan, Ann Riordan, Eileen Riordan, Jeremiah Galvin, Kathleen O Sullivan (Hillcrest), Maureen Lynch, Mary Spillane, Francis Griffin (Senior), Maurice Corkery, Sheila Corkery, Frank Griffin, Christy Purcell.

Glounaguillagh – Kevin Griffin, Bridie Diggin,

Muingaphouca – Belinda Lynch, John Dwyer, Maria Fenton, Niall Moriarty, Timmy Kelliher, Christy & Mary Clifford,

Caragh Lake – Gene Ahern, John Foley (Avondale House), Myles O Brien, Patrick Joy (Heather Lodge), James Long, Mike Hassett, Paddy Brown, Michael O Dwyer, John O Shea, John A. O Brien, Jackie O Dwyer, P. & J. O Neill, Christopher Ahern & Dan Foley.

Ballycleave – Kevin Heffernan.

Rangue – Brendan McCarthy, John O Reilly, John Griffin (Westwood), Vincent Moriarty, Noel Doyle, Mick O Connell, Charles Doyle, John Quirke, Brendan O Sullivan, Mike O Connor, Dieter Kischoffer.

Garrahadoo – John Devine, Bridie Cronin, Ann Marie Galvin, James Galvin, Johnny Galvin.

Farrentoreen – Mick O Connell, Michael O Reilly, Donal McEnery, Sean Falvey, Sean O Reilly, Paddy Linehan.

Laharn – Jerry Horgan, Sean Diggin, Sheila Kennedy, Kevin Foley, John & Nuala O Keeffe, Liam Crowley, Patsy Joy, Michael Moriarty, Bridie Moriarty, Dan Moriarty, Peggy O Shea, Tommy Woods, Edward Stack, John Linehan, Brian O Shea, Nigel Foley, Joe Foley.

Annadale – Agnes Joy, John A. Joy, Gerard Joy, Mossy Joy (junior), Jimmy & Joan Joy.

Meanus – Donie Griffin, Mrs. Sean Kissane, Timothy O Shea.

Groyne – Esther Curran, Pat Sheehan.

Ownagarry – Frank Brennan, Frank McGillycuddy, Tom Curran, David & Ann O Sullivan, Tim O Shea.

Ardnaknockeen – John McGillycuddy, Matty Cahill.

Keelcoulaght – Jim & Nora Galvin, Tadhg Harris, John Galvin, John V. O Sullivan, Síle Horgan.

Parkalasa – Mr. & Mrs. John Moriarty.

Glencuttane – Daniel T. O Sullivan, Ann Doyle, Patrick Clifford, Paudie O Connor, Liam Clifford, Mrs. Joe O Sullivan.

Shanara – Denis Doyle, Joe O Sullivan, Paul Ashe, Con Doherty.

Gortnagreenane – John O Donoghue.

Gortluachra – Maura Tuohy.

Knocknaboola – Pat & Margaret Grandfield, Morgan O Sullivan, Áine Joy.

Ardmoniel – Mary Coffey, Pat Galvin, Tom O Connor, Owen O Sullivan (AIB), Conor O Mahony, Francis McMahon, Martin Neill, Donal Clifford, Johnny O Connor, Bill McSwiney.

Cromane – Julia Mai Purcell, Patie Healy, Seamus McMahon, Mike Ahern.

Bank of Ireland – Brendan Murphy, Pat Murphy, Jane Griffin.

AIB – Sean O Mahony.

Klinge – John Lawlor, Pat Kelliher, Brian O Callaghan, Mary O Sullivan, Jim Mulchinox, Donal Courtney.

Milltown – Mary O Malley (Main St.), Sheila & Billy O Shea (bakery), Pat McCarthy (The Square), Dan Cronin (O Shea’s Bakery), Pat Finnegan (O Shea’s Fruit & Veg.), Siobhan Shanahan, Michael McCarthy (Larkins), Con Hayes.

Callanfersy – Jeremiah Kerins, Pat Twiss, Derek Twiss, Mossy Harmon.

Kilderry – Willie & Eileen Blennerhassett, Nell Blennerhassett.

Burlington, Tralee – Denis Murphy, P. O Shea & N. Power, Mike Landers.

Telecom – Tim Hayes, Denis Russell, Donal Murphy Gene Leary & Pat Carroll, Con Lynch, Kevin Griffin.

Tralee – Paddy McGillycuddy (Ballyard), John O Connor (Rock St.), Neillie O Sullivan (Racecourse Lawn), Donie O Sullivan (Ballyrickard).

Fossa – Bernie Cronin (Aghadoe).

Listry – John Joe Tangney.

Killarney – Breda Kelliher (Manor), Mícheál O Mahony (Marion Terrace), Sonny Maher (Killarney Mineral Waters).

Liebherr – M. Clifford, Pat Mannix.

Scartaglin – Jerome O Driscoll.

Listowel – Mike O Connor (Rattoo).

Lixnaw – Pat Griffin.

Kilgobnet – Pat Breen, Michael O Sullivan (Ballyledder), Mary Doona (Ballyledder), Paddy Cahill (Shanacloon).

Beaufort – Noel Shanahan, John O Connor.

Keel – Joe Shannon (Boolteens), Christena hayes (Gortanedin).

Glencar – Mrs. McGillycuddy, Con Murphy.

Headford – Mathew Riordan (Sheans), Seamus Cooper ( Droum).

Cahersiveen – Donal O Neill.

Bantry – Pat Joy.

Rathkeale – Pat Ahern (BoI).

London – Mrs. Timmy O Shea (Neasden), Jackie Galvin (Cricklewood), Sheila O Shea (Hanwell), Pat O Mahony (Hayes), Christy Kissane (Kilburn).

 

At the Co. Board meeting of Mon. 8^th Feb. Tim Carey was granted a transfer back to Cromane from Laune Rangers. That was done by the mutual consent of both clubs.

At the Co. Board meeting on 11^th April, the transfer of James O Shea (Shanara) to London was sanctioned.

At the Co. Board meeting on 9^th May, the transfer of Roy Evans from Laune Rangers to the North American Board was sanctioned.

 

At the Co. Board meeting on Mon. 14^th March, the following Laune Rangers’ players were regraded from senior status: Gene Evans, Teddy Clifford, Michael o Reilly, Pat McKenna and John Griffin.

 

A meeting of Laune Rangers Hurling Sub-Committee was held on the Manor Inn on Mon. 15^th Feb. The following officers were elected: Chairman – Bart Moriarty, Vice-Chairman – John Purcell, Hon. Sec. – Pat Lynch, Hon. Treas./PRO – James Coffey, Delegate to Co. Board – Pat Lynch, Delegate to South-Kerry Hurling Board – John Purcell. The following trainers were appointed: U-12 – Joe Crowe and Maurice Lynch, U-14 – Joe Purcell and Joe Kennedy, U-16 and Minor – John Purcell, Paddy Creagh and Bill Hearne, U-21 and Senior – Gerry Foley, John Purcell and Joe Crowe.

 

The AGM of the Kingdom Club, London was held in the Willesden Junction Pub at the end of February. Pat O Mahony, Templenoe (and formerly of Laune Rangers) was re-elected as Chairman. He was also elected as Co. Board Delegate.

 

At the Co. Board meeting on Mon. 8^th Feb., Cromane’s request to play in the Co. Championship with Mid-Kerry was denied – the officers of the Board having consulted with Laune Rangers on the matter.

At the Co. Board meeting on 14^th March, a request by Cromane to play with Glenbeigh in the Co. Minor Football League was refused.

 

Laune Rangers family membership for 1988 was £10. That membership entitled the card holder to a vote at the Club Convention and to free admission to all games in the J.P. O Sullivan Park. (Admission to each Co. League game in 1988 cost £2).

 

On Sun. 31^st July the Laune Rangers Centenary Mass was celebrated in St. James’ Church at 11.00am. The celebrant was Father Pat O Sullivan, Keelcoulacht and Canon Keane concelebrated. James Coffey read the first reading, Colette Finnegan sang ‘Canaigí Amhrán Nua don Tiarna’, as a responsorial psalm and Jerome Conway read the second reading. Pierce Prendiville and Tommy Byrne read the Prayers of the Faithful. John Evans, James Sheehan, Maurice Corkery and John Purcell brought the gifts for the Offertory (a football, a hurley and a sliotar included). Áine Joy played the organ as the choir sang, Is Beannaithe Tigh Dé; Ag Críost an Síol; Is Naofa, Naofa, Naofa Thú; Ár nAthair; Céad Míle Fáilte Romhat; Come and take the flesh of Christ; Réir Dé go nDéanam. Kevin Melia sang Ár nAthair as a solo during Holy Communion, and Colette Finnegan played an old Irish air on the concert flute. Father O Sullivan gave a lovely homily, extolling the great work of the GAA in general and the Laune Rangers Club in particular.

 

On Thurs. 4^th Aug. in the Manor Inn, Killorglin, The Trail Blazers (The Laune Rangers Club history by Pat O Shea) was launched. The following were the principal guests: John Dowling, Uachtarán CLG; Michael O Connor, Chairman of the Munster Council and Sean Kelly, Chairman of the Kerry Co. Board. (Londis and Pat O Grady combined to give the club £1,000 sponsorship towards defraying the expenses of the night.). The Kerryman described the function as follows: “May your future be as bright as your past was glorious,’ so stated GAA President, John Dowling, at the gala launch of the Laune Rangers’ centenary book, ‘The Trailblazers’, in the Manor Inn, Killorglin, on Thursday night last. It was a launch with a difference. As, with the book itself, there was much style about the way everything was done and the high point of the night was the standing ovation for the author, Pat O Shea.

The Laune Rangers Club treated 250 guests to dinner, among them relatives of the great Laune Rangers team of 1892 (they were the first Kerry team to reach an All-Ireland football final), relatives of the men who founded the club in 1888 and relatives of the players who won county football championship titles for Laune Rangers up to and including 1911.

Afterwards, the chairman of the club’s centenary committee, Jimmy Coffey, said, ‘This was a very, very special night. There were going to be no half measures. It was the kind of night that will not be repeated and we wanted it to be a launching to be remembered.’ It was exactly that. People travelled from America, from England and from various parts of Ireland to be present and the views of all were probably best summed up by former Laune Rangers great, Pat Ahern, who broke off a holiday in Rosslare to be present: ‘They still have the knack of doing things awful well in Laune Rangers. Haven’t they?’

GAA President, John Dowling, was effusive in his praise of Laune Rangers and the centenary book. It was, he said, a glorious occasion and he told the author, Pat O Shea, and the team who worked with him on the book, ‘You have done a marvellous job, take full credit and be proud of yourselves.’ John Dowling paid tribute to Laune Rangers for all the great work the club had accomplished over the previous 100 years. ‘The Irish people had,’ he said, ‘survived the famine and later brutalisation. What the famine failed to do, the Crown forces made every effort to do, but they could not break the spirit of the Irish people. The GAA was born of the Irish people and the Irish people preserved the Gaelic games, the Irish language and the Irish music. It is fitting that histories should be written about GAA clubs and all the deeds achieved by them should be recorded.’ He was sure the history of Laune Rangers recorded all the happenings on and off the field and would make for exciting reading. The club was, he said, the cornerstone on which the GAA was built and it was the cornerstone on which it would thrive. He commended Laune Rangers on the excellent field and facilities it had provided in the J.P. O Sullivan Park and it was only right that the GAA at national level should be represented in honouring such a famous and enterprising club at the launching of its centenary book.

Jimmy Coffey, who acted as master of ceremonies, said that in a homily at the club’s centenary Mass, Father Pat O Sullivan had referred to the saying that, ‘a man was not dead until people stopped talking about him.’ It was an appropriate saying. ‘Over the past nine years or so when research for the history was being carried out, many great names, players and administrators, came to our notice,’ said Jimmy Coffey. ‘They were recorded for posterity in the history of the club. These Trail Blazers are remembered tonight. Amongst you, our guests, we have the closest relatives of the great Laune Rangers team of 1892. We, also, have, as guests, the relatives of the founder members of the club in 1888. Relatives of the men who played on the Co. Championship winning teams up to and including 1911 are here tonight. Present and past players of the club who won All-Ireland medals at senior, junior, U-21 and minor level are our guests too, as are provincial medal holders in those grades. With us, also, are the captains of winning Laune Rangers teams and the captains of our two Minor Co. Championship winning teams of 1977 and 1987 and, of course, the members of those two teams. These players may well be classed as Trail Blazers at the next centenary celebrations. With us tonight we, also, have the members of the Laune Rangers team of 1966 that won the Kerry Co. Club Championship and Towns’ Cup – Trail Blazers as well, because no less than eight of that team backboned the Mid-Kerry team to win its first Co. Senior Championship in 1967. Present, also, are the members of the Laune Rangers team that won the East-Kerry Championship in 1932. For good measure, we have all, or nearly all, of the relatives of the officers of the early years of the club, as well as surviving officers who are able to attend. We did not forget the ladies either and we have with us two members of the famous camogie team that won the East-Kerry title back in 1933, Sheila O Neill and Hannah Maria ‘Buzz’ Power. Also present is Jacqueline McGillycuddy, the star of the now famous Kerry football team who are going for seven-in-a-row All-Irelands this year.

The various contributors to Trail Blazers are present, as are the people who, through their generosity or voluntary work in the lean years, helped to keep the club alive. Those who passed on to their eternal reward are represented by members of their families. Stephen O Sullivan and his wife are here from New York and those of us who were fortunate enough to visit that city with Laune Rangers in 1970 and 1972 know the tremendous effort that Stephen and other Killorglin people put into making the visits memorable ones. Jackie O Dwyer, one of the true-blues of Gaelic games and a founder member and first Secretary of the J.P. O Sullivan Park Committee in Dublin in the late 40’s, arrived from London today for this function. Jackie’s father was, of course, a former officer of the Laune Rangers Club and its representative at East-Kerry Board and Co. Board for many years.

Jimmy Coffey concluded by saying that he and the other members of the centenary committee had spent many happy hours helping Pat O Shea to put the final touches to his book. They all had great memories of the weekly meetings over the past 15 months. The committee members were Canon Keane, Paddy Crowley, Kevin Foley, Sean O Reilly, Denis O Neill, Mícheál O Mahony, who travelled from Killarney and never missed a meeting, Jimmy Coffey (Chairman) Patsy Cronin (Secretary) and Pat O Shea.

Jerome Conway, Chairman of Laune Rangers, said that, for him, the launching of the book was the greatest occasion yet in the chequered history of the club. He said that the contribution of Pat O Shea to the growth of Laune Rangers was well known and the book he had produced was an outstanding documentation of the history of Laune Rangers. ‘It has exceeded our wildest dreams and never was a book more yearned for,’ he said. ‘On behalf of the club, I say with deepest sincerity, ‘Thank you, Pat.’ He paid tribute to the club’s patrons and, in relation to the launching, acknowledged the generous sponsorship of Londis.

Sean Kelly, Chairman of the Co. Board, said that it was an honour to be present on such an historic occasion. There was no more appropriate or fitting way to celebrate a centenary than to publish a history. It was a daunting task and required great dedication and competence. ‘You have produced in Pat O Shea a man who faced that task with the dedication for which he was known,’ he said. He described Pat O Shea as one of Kerry’s best and most astute selectors and any job he ever undertook he did it well. He looked forward with much enthusiasm to reading the book in the coming months. It had a most attractive and appropriate name, in Trail Blazers. The Laune Rangers Club had been the first to blaze the trail for the glorious tradition of Kerry football – and the Kerry tradition is the best in the whole association. The trail that was blazed so many years ago was still being followed and he said that when the Kerry minor footballers lined out in the All-Ireland semi-finals for the first time in six years, a Laune Ranger player would be captain. It was appropriate that the top man in the GAA should be present to launch the history of such an illustrious club.

Michael O Connor, Chairman of the Munster Council, congratulated Pat O Shea on the tremendous job he had done. He was very pleased to see that he got a standing ovation. They all knew how great a task it was to write a club history. The history of Laune Rangers was a story of a hundred years of achievement, of tremendous commitment, dedication and unswerving loyalty to the association. Looking to the future, he said that Laune Rangers would win the Co. Senior Football Championship within a very few short years.

Pat O Shea, author of the book, said that he realised when he started the project eight years ago that a long and rugged road lay ahead. The road turned out to be more rugged than he had anticipated, but it was an enriching, fulfilling experience. ‘This, for me, is the climax of 35 years of involvement with Laune Rangers,’ he said. ‘It is with satisfaction that I now hand over the fruits of my labour for the past eight years to the President of the GAA, John Dowling.’ Pat O Shea presented a copy of the book to John Dowling. Copies were also presented to other distinguished guests present. The Laune Rangers club made a presentation of a suitably inscribed silver salver, cut-glass decanter and six glasses to Pat O Shea. An oil painting of Killorglin was presented to John Dowling. Bouquets of flowers were presented to Pat O Shea’s wife, Joan, and to Juliette Kelly, wife of the Co. Board Chairman.”

The book went on sale in Duffy’s Newspaper Shop, Killorglin, Pat O Shea, Rangue, James Coffey, Lower Bridge St. and Pat O Mahony, Hayes, Middlesex. Soft-cover copies cost £12 and hard-cover copies cost £20.

 

As part of the Laune Rangers’ Club Centenary celebrations, an inter-club golf outing was organised for Dooks Golf Club on Sat. 10^th Sept. The competition was open to all GAA clubs (football and hurling) in Kerry and the entry fee was £25 per team. Pat Lynch, Dromavalla was in charge of the event, which was sponsored by Liam Woods Electrical and Kerry Co. Board. The starting times were as follows: 8.30am Laune Rangers (Anthony Shannon, capt.), 8.37am Listry (D. Foley), 8.46 Laune Rangers (John B. O Shea), 8.53am Laune Rangers (Patrick O Connor), 9.00am Castlegregory (Michael Moriarty), 9.07am Austin Stacks ‘A’ (Ollie Kerins), 9.14am Milltown/Castlemaine (P. Burke), 9.21am Desmonds (Eamonn O Connor), 9.28am Laune Rangers (Tony Lyons), 9.35am Austin Stacks ‘B’ (Tony O Keeffe), 9.42am Laune Rangers (Brendan Mangan), 9.49 Laune Rangers (Peter Gill), 9.56 Waterville (Mick O Dwyer), 10.03am Keel ‘A’ (James Lomg), 10.10am Kilmoyley (John Fitzgerald), 10.17am Firies (J. O Sullivan), 10.24am Laune Rangers (Michael O Sullivan), 10.31am Keel ‘B’ (John Dowling), 10.38am Glenbeigh (Mike Breen), 10.45am Beale ‘A’ (Eoin Liston), 10.52am Kerins O Rahillys (Willie Maguire), 10.59am Dr. Crokes ‘A’ (John Keogh), 11.06am Beale ‘B’ (M. Clarke), 11.13am Na Gaeil (Pat O Connor), 11.20am Kenmare (Michael Murphy), 11.27am Dr. Crokes ‘B’ (P. Coughlan), 11.34am Laune Rangers (Declan Falvey), 11.41am Ballymacelligott (M. Lynch), 11.48am Listowel Emmets (John Molyneaux), 11.55am Legion (Donal Brosnan), 12.02pm Spa/Glenflesk (Pat Favier), 12.09pm Derrynane (J. Quinlan), 12.16pm St. Mary’s (Tony McCarthy), 12.23pm Ballyheigue (A. Casey), 12.30pm Valentia (M. Egan), 12.37pm Laune Rangers (Pat O Riordan), 12.44pm Laune Rangers (Owen Mangan), 12.51pm Bandon (Conor O Mahony), 12.58pm Laune Rangers Hurling Club (Val Broderick). The winners were: 1^st Desmonds, 2^nd Spa/Glenflesk, 3^rd Firies, 4^th Laune Rangers Hurling Club, 5^th Glenbeigh, 6^th Laune Rangers.

 

The death occurred on 9^th Aug. of Tom Crowley, Lower Bridge Street. He had been involved in the re-organisation of Killorglin Hurling Club in the fifties and had served as its Vice-Chairman in 1955.

The death occurred on 12^th Sept. of Bobby Doyle, Dromin. He had been Secretary of the Mid-Kerry Board in 1952. He had also been Secretary of the J.P. O Sullivan Park Committee and had played with Laune Rangers.

The death occurred in mid-October of Frank O Shea, Lower Bridge Street and New York. Before departing for the USA, he had been a member of B Company, 6^th Battalion, Kerry No. 2 Brigade Old IRA and National Army (15^th Battalion). While in New York, he and his wife Nora looked after many Killorglin people forced to emigrate. He took a keen onterest in sport and was quick to set up a fund-raising committee in New York for the development of the J.P. O Sullivan Park as soon as it was purchased in 1951. He was active in the organising of events for the Laune Rangers team on their visits to New York on 1970 and 1972 and saw that the players were well looked after.

 

Kerry Inter-firm Senior Football Championship Final in July at Tralee: Denny’s 2-7; Lee Strand 0-7.

James O Shea (Cromane) came on as substitute for Denny’s.

 

At the AGM of the Kerry VEC Games Committee in October, the following officers were elected: Chairman – Tony O Callaghan, Secretary – George Dennis (Killorglin), Treasurer – Marcia Keane, PRO – Eamonn Fitzgerald (Killarney).

 

As part of the Kerry Co. Board GAA Centenary Celebrations, Mary Johnston, Dungeel was commissioned to design a Kerry Crest. The aim of the crest was to portray all the sports played under the umbrella of the GAA, combined with images of Kerry in an unique setting. The final submission comprised of:

A twisted circular band, broken at the four points

Top:            Three gold crowns of the Kerry the Kingdom

Left:            Footballer, in honour of Kerry’s football All-Ireland titles.

Right:            Hurler, in honour of Kerry’s one hurling All-Ireland title.

Bottom:            Handballer, in honour of Kerry’s handball All-Ireland titles

All in gold silhouette on a green background.

The dominant and central part of the crest comprised of a Wolfhound, the Harp and Round Tower. These stand for:

The Round Tower – our heritage, the Tower of Ratoo.

The Harp – our traditional music, with nine strings for the nine baronies of Kerry.

The Wolfhound – the pride and heart of the people of Kerry, since the time Cúchulainn travelled ‘The Kerry Way’ to Tír na nOg.

The background consisted of the Oakwoods of Killarney, the outline of Carrantouhill and the outline of Kerry’s coastline with the word ‘Ciarraí’ superimposed on the map and, last but not least, four shamrock leaves at the bottom of the centre, which were part of the Kerry Senior Championship medals. The shamrocks were to be found on the main gate to the Austin Stack Park. Those gates were made in 1944 and hung on the main archway into the Austin Stack Park. The archway was demolished in the 1970’s.

 

Jerome Conway refereed the following Mid-Kerry games, amongst others, in 1988:

SFC on Sat. 7^th May at Killorglin: Milltown/Castlemaine 2-10; Keel 0-5.

SFC losers’ round on Sat. 4^th June at Milltown: Glenbeigh beat Keel.

SFC semi-final on Sun. 17^th July at Killorglin: Beaufort drew with Glenbeigh.

SFC semi-final replay on Wed. 3^rd Aug. at Killorglin: Glenbeigh beat Beaufort.

 

Michael O Reilly and Pat O Shea (School Road) attended a basic referees’ course in Limerick at the end of April and they received their certificates from former Uachtarán, Dr. Mick Loftus.

 

Michael O Reilly refereed the following games, amongst others, for the Kerry Co. Board:

MFL, Div. 2 North on Fri. 8^th April at Currow: Currow 2-7; Gneeveguilla 1-5.

MFL, Div, 5 South on Fri. 15^th April at Glenbeigh: Glenbeigh 2-5; Valentia 3-5.

 

Michael O Reilly refereed the following game, amongst others, for Co. Bord na nOg:

U-16 Div. 6 final on Sun. 21^st Aug. at Killorglin: Listry defeated Milltown.

 

Michael O Reilly refereed the following games, amongst others, in Mid-Kerry in 1988:

Novice semi-final on Sat. 27^th Aug. at Killorglin: Beaufort v Cromane.

O Sullivan Cup on Sun. 23^rd Oct. at Milltown: Cromane 0-10; Keel 0-5.

O Sullivan Cup semi-final on Sun. 30^th Oct. at Killorglin: Beaufort beat Cromane.

Patrick O Shea refereed the following game, amongst others, for the Kerry Co. Board:

Co. Club Championship on Sat. 8^th Oct. at Killorglin: Valentia 2-8; Dr. Crokes 1-4.

 

Patrick O Shea refereed the following Mid-Kerry games, amongst others, in 1988:

SFL on Sun. 14^th Feb. at Vocational Schools Field: Cromane 0-5; Glenbeigh 3-1.

SFL Semi-final on Sun. 10^th April at Killorglin: Milltown/Castlemaine 0-7; Beaufort 0-5.

Senior ‘B’ Championship on Tues. 17^th May at Keel: Keel ‘B’ v Glenbeigh ‘B’.

Minor Championship on Tues. 26^th July at Milltown: Glenbeigh v Milltown/Castlemaine.

Novice Championship on Sun. 31^st July at Glenbeigh: Glenbeigh lost to Milltown/Castlemaine.

O Sullivan Cup semi-final on Sun. 30^th Oct. at Killorglin: Glenbeigh v Milltown/Castlemaine.

 

As there was no Ladies’ Football team in Killorglin, some Killorglin girls continued to play with Beaufort.

Rd. 1 NFL (Junior) on Sun. 6^th March at Mullingar: Westmeath 0-3; Kerry 0-3.

Elaine McGillycuddy played at left fullback.

Rd. 2 NFL (Senior) on Sun. 25^th March at Kerins O Rahillys: Kerry 3-11; Laois 0-4.

Full-forward Jacqueline McGillycuddy made a triumphant return to the team and scored 2-3.

NFL (Senior) on Sun. 1^st May at Ballymacelligott: Kerry 7-11; Cork 2-3.

Jacqueline McGillycuddy scored 0-2 from full-forward.

NFL (Junior) on Sun. 1^st May at Ballymacelligott: Kerry 0-6; Cork 1-2.

Elaine McGillycuddy was a substitute.

NFL (Senior) Semi-final on Sun. 19^th June at Ballineen: Cork 2-3; Kerry 4-15.

In the tenth minute, Jacqueline McGillycuddy, playing at full-forward, shot past the Cork goalie for a classic goal.

NFL (Junior) Semi-final on Sun. 19^th June at Ballineen: Cork 1-9; Kerry 0-4.

Elaine McGillycuddy played at right fullback.

NFL Senior Final on Sun. 28^th June at Thurles: Kerry 2-8; Waterford 0-6.

Jacqueline McGillycuddy scored 0-1 from full-forward. That was Kerry’s eighth League title in nine seasons.

Munster Senior Semi-final on Sun. 7^th Aug. at Rathmore: Kerry 1-18; Cork 1-3.

Jacqueline McGillycuddy scored 0-2 from full-forward.

Munster Senior Final on Sun. 18^th Sept. at Ballymacarbery, Co. Waterford: Waterford 1-8; Kerry 3-5.

Jacqueline McGillycuddy scored a goal from full-forward.

All-Ireland Final on Sun. 16^th Oct. at Croke Park: Kerry 2-12; Laois 3-3.

That was Kerry’s seventh title in-a-row.

Kerry: Kathleen Curran (Beaufort), Bridget Leen (Castleisland), Nora Hallissey (Beaufort), Tess O Carroll (Austin Stacks), Marian O Doherty (Castleisland), Mary Lane (do.) capt. 0-1, Phil Curran (Beaufort), Mary Jo Curran (do.) 1-2, Annette Walsh (Castleisland), Marina Barry (Austin Stacks), Lil O Sullivan (do.) 1-2, Margaret Flaherty (Castleisland), Eileen Lawlor (Abbeydorney) 0-2, Margaret Slattery (do.) 0-5, Jacqueline McGillycuddy (Beaufort). Subs: Patricia Murphy (Abbeydorney) for M. Slattery, Sheila Looney (Beaufort) for P. Curran, Michelle Walsh (Currow) for M. Flaherty, Ann Costello (Abbeydorney), Ann O Callaghan (Austin Stacks), Mary Buckley (Beaufort), Mary Ellen Cronin (Austin Stacks), Siobhán O Sullivan (Beaufort).

Rd. 1 Co. League on Fri. 1^st April at Ballymacelligott: Beaufort 2-6; Castleisland 0-3.

Beaufort, for long the Cinderella club of Ladies’ Football, gave notice to all and sundry that they were destined for greater things with that nine points win over Castleisland. Elaine McGillycuddy was outstanding in defence and Jacqueline McGillycuddy scored 0-3 from centre half-forward.

Co. League on Sat. 7^th May at Abbeydorney: Abbeydorney 2-4; Beaufort 6-14.

Jacqueline McGillycuddy scored 2-4. Elaine McGillycuddy played at right fullback.

Co. League at the beginning of June: Beaufort 0-7; Castleisland 0-4

Co. League Final on Mon. 1^st Aug. at Currow; Beaufort 2-7; Abbeydorney 3-4.

Jacqueline McGillycuddy scored 0-1.

Co. Championship Semi-final on Sun. 4^th Sept: Beaufort 5-13; Abbeydorney 2-1.

Jacqueline McGillycuddy scored 2-2.

Co. League Final replay on Sun. 11^th Sept. at Fitzgerald Stadium: Beaufort 3-8; Abbeydorney 0-5.

Beaufort: Carmel Coffey, Elaine McGillycuddy, Nora Hallissey, Christina Doyle, Mary Kearney, Phil Curran (0-2), Siobhán O Sullivan, Mary Jo Curran (1-2), Kathleen Curran (capt.), Mary Buckley, Eileen Scully (0-1), Sheila Looney (0-1), Claire Doyle, Jacqueline McGillycuddy (1-3), Sheila Morris. Subs: Kathleen Cremins for C. Doyle, Sheila O Shea for S. Morris, Kathryn Foley for E. McGillycuddy.

Co. Championship Final on Sun. 25^th Sept. at Ardfert: Beaufort 0-5; Castleisland 0-1.

 

Co. Senior Football Final on Sun. 2^nd Oct. at Austin Stack Park: St. Kieran’s 0-10; Dr. Crokes 0-3.

Co. Minor Football final on Sun. 1^st Oct. at Austin Stack Park: Laune Rangers 1-12; Austin Stacks 1-5.

Co. Intermediate Football Final on Sun. 2^nd Oct. at Austin Stack Park: Dingle 1-9; Templenoe 0-10.

Co. Junior Football Final on Sun. 30^th Oct. at Killarney: Currow 1-7; Rathmore 0-3.

Co. Novice Football Final on Sun. 30^th Oct. at Killarney: Renard 0-11; Ballyduff 0-8.

Co. U-21 Football final on Sun. 27^th Nov. at Austin Stack Park: South Kerry 2-9; Laune Rangers 3-5.

Co. Club Championship Final on Sat. 22^nd Oct. at Killarney: Desmonds 1-7; Valentia 0-8.

Co. Club ‘B’ Final on Sun. 23^rd Oct. at Tralee: Kerins O Rahillys ‘B’ 0-10; John Mitchels ‘B’ 0-9.

Co. Football League Div. 1 Champions – Dr. Crokes.

 

Over 300 attended the Laune Rangers Centenary Banquet at the Castle Heights Hotel, Killarney, on Sat. 12^th Nov. It was a wonderful social occasion. A bus left the Square at 6.45pm and there was a punch reception at 7.30pm. The pipers played as the massive Centenary Cake, with its hundred lit candles, was brought into the Banquet Hall, where Club President, Paddy Crowley, blew out the candles and performed the cutting ceremony amid deafening applause. Guest speakers, Sean Kelly, Chairman of Kerry Co. Board, and Michael McCarthy, Chairman of the Mid-Kerry Board, spoke of the wonderful achievements of the club during the centenary of its existance. Very Rev. Canon Keane P.P. praised the club for the wonderful work it was doing for the parish, particularly for the youth. He also praised the GAA for its great work for the country from its very foundation. He said that the GAA and the Gaelic League, along with a few others, had instilled a new spirit into the Irish over a century ago. The wonderful all-round playing of Patrick Doyle, Myles Coffey and Christy O Riordan added to a great occasion.

Tommy Woods, John Purcell and Liam Shannon collected spot-prizes from the business people of the town. Maurice Corkery had arranged the bus to the social. O Sullivan bakeries had sponsored the special cake for the occasion. Sheila Purcell made a video of the occasion for posterity. The Social was sponsored by AIB, through John B. O Shea, Niall Kelly and Aidan Gannon.

 

The Mid-Kerry Schools’ Sports meeting was held in the J.P. O Sullivan Park, Killorglin on Sun. 17^th April. The Killorglin athletes fared as follows:

Boys: U-8 60m – 1^st Eamonn O Connor (Scoil Mhuire), 3^rd John Edward Murphy (Glounaguillagh).

U-8 100m – 1^st John Edward Murphy (Glounaguillagh), 3^rd Kieran Dwyer (do.).

U-10 100m – 2^nd Morgan Foley (Scoil Mhuire), 3^rd T.J. Cronin (do.).

U-10 200m – 1^st Johnny Lynch (Glounaguillagh), 3^rd John O Connell (do.).

U-12 100m – 2^nd Shane Harmon (Scoil Mhuire). U-12 600m – 1^st Shane Diggin (Douglas).

U-12 Long Jump – 3^rd T.J. Cronin (Scoil Mhuire).

U-14 100m – 2^nd Gerald Murphy (Scoil Mhuire), 3^rd Redmond Fitzgerald (do.).

U-14 800m – 1^st Eamonn Foley (Scoil Mhuire), Kealon O Sullivan (Intermediate School), 3^rd Pat O Keeffe (Douglas).

U-16 100m – 1^st Kieran Moriarty (Intermediate School), 3^rd Anthony O Sullivan (Vocational School).

U-16 1,500m – 1^st Anthony O Sullivan, 2^nd Kieran Moriarty.

U-16 Long Jump – 1^st Kieran Moriarty, 2^nd Anthony O Sullivan, 3^rd David O Reilly (Milltown Monastery).

Girls: U-6 60m – 3^rd Elma Hassett (Glounaguillagh). U-8 60m – 3^rd Carmel Lynch (Glounaguillagh).

U-8 100m – 2^nd Niamh Diggin (Douglas).

U-10 100m – 1^st Angela Hassett (Glounaguillagh), 2^nd Theresa Hoare (do.).

U-10 200m – 2^nd Angela Hassett.

U-12 100m – 1^st Tara Brick (Scoil Mhuire), 2^nd (tie) Kerry O Sullivan (do.).

U-12 600m – 1^st Vanessa Murphy (Scoil Mhuire), Carina O Keeffe (Douglas), 3^rd Tara Brick (Scoil Mhuire).

U-12 Long Jump – 1^st Kerry O Sullivan, 2^nd Vanessa Murphy.

U-14 100m – 1^st Deirdre O Leary (Intermediate School), 2^nd Michelle Melia (Scoil Mhuire), 3^rd Lilian Grandfield (do.).

U-14 800m – 1^st Eileen O Sullivan (Vocational School), 2^nd Christine O Brien (do.).

U-14 Long Jump – 2^nd Deirdre O Leary.

U-16 100m – 2^nd Loreto Linehan (Vocational School), 3^rd Shirley O Sullivan (do.).

U-16 1,500m – 1^st Loreto Linehan.

U-16 Long Jump – 2^nd Loreto Linehan, 2^nd Shirley O Sullivan.

U-18 100m – 1^st Vivienne Fenton (Vocational School), 2^nd Karen Quinn (do.), 3^rd Caroline O Brien (do.).

Boys N.S. Relay (4x100m) – 1^st Scoil Mhuire ‘A’, 3^rd Scoil Mhuire ‘B’.

Girls N.S. Relay (4x100m) – 2^nd Scoil Mhuire.

Girls Post-Primary Relay (4x100m) – 1^st Vocational School ‘A’, 2^nd Intermediate School, 3^rd Vocational School ‘B’.

Mothers’ Race – 3^rd Kathleen Dwyer (Glounaguillagh).

Fathers’ Race – 1^st James Ferris (Scoil Mhuire), 2^nd Patie O Connor (do.).

Teachers’ Race – 1^st Kevin Griffin (Intermediate School).

 

Kerry Community Games Sports Finals were held in Tralee on Sun. 26^th June. The Killorglin athletes fared as follows:

Girls: U-10 100m – 4^th Angela Hassett. U-16 High Jump – 1^st Angela Brennan. U-17 Javelin – 1^st Catherine Moriarty.

Boys: U-16 High Jump – 3^rd Mike Hassett.

U-14 Long Jump – 3^rd Liam Hassett.

 

The AGM of Laune Rangers club was held in the Manor Inn on Wed.  21^st Dec. 1988. The Secretary, Tommy Woods, reported on the year’s activities as follows: “As we assemble here tonight, we must set about the annual business of conducting our AGM, as is done every year, but, more importantly, this year we are bringing the curtain down on the first complete century of the Laune Rangers Club and what a century it was, from the early successes of the club, the diversions and lull in the middle years to our magnificent achievements of late. Many great men, some of whom have long since passed to their eternal reward, have served the club well in the first century and, I’m sure, the people of Killorglin will not be found wanting in the cause of Laune Rangers throughout the second century.

1988 was an extremely busy year for those involved in running the affairs of the club but, as was often said during the year, ‘we won’t be around for the next one.’ One thing we can be sure of though is that Laune Rangers will be around for the next century. 1988 was also an expensive year on the finances of the club, as you will hear shortly from our Treasurers, but the expenditure was well worth it to celebrate our centenary in a style that befits one of the most famous clubs in the country.

Even if all the events we had planned for the year did not materialise, and once again our fondest wish, the capturing of the Senior Co. Championship, eluded us, ’88 was still a hugely successful year for the club.

Looking through the Chairman’s address at last year’s AGM, it is sad to see that some of the points he highlighted as being wrong with the club are still with us. I refer to his remarks about 1) criticism of officers, selectors and individual players in the wrong place and at the wrong time, generally in pubs late at night. This will have to stop. There is a time and a place for everything. 2) the failure of the ‘B’ team to fulfil all its fixtures, especially late in the year. I think it is time the ‘B’ team had its own manager and set its won targets and become a team with a distinct panel of players. Surely, we have enough players for this to happen.

For my own part, last year I called for fresh faces to come forward and offer help in any area of the club’s activities but especially in the area of juvenile coaching and finance. Senior players, I feel, should examine their situations to see if they can spare an hour or two a week for a few months of the year. Finance will once again pose a problem this year with the proposed renovations and extension to our club-rooms. So, I repeat my call again this year and hope it will receive a more sympathetic hearing than it did last year.

Our field finishes ’88 the same as it started, being rested. This is an annual event now and is proving to be a great help. The problems of overuse and bad weather are annual problems. One thousand pounds was spent in one week alone on the field during the year. The field was spiked to a depth of 14 inches and sand was brushed into the holes. This job has proved reasonably successful and, even at the moment, more sand is being spread down the centre of the pitch to fill divets, etc.

The club made efforts during 1988 to lease an alternative pitch. Even though we offered to develop a pitch at our own expense, our approaches were not accepted. This matter will, I’m sure, surface again during 1989.

The making of an alternative mobile set of senior goalposts by Donie Griffin during the year proved to be a success as we now can use our own pitch all year round if we wish, still protecting the badly affected areas.

My thanks go to the people who helped in any way with the field during 1988, Jim Galvin, Matty Cahill, John and Noel Purcell, Andy Pigott, Patrick Pigott and Donie Griffin for erecting the centenary bill-boards and looking after the score-board. I’m not of course forgetting Paudie Sheahan, who has been employed in the Park under the S.E.S, Scheme, since the start of April. Paudie has done great work, even though he is hindered by the lack of basic equipment. My thanks to John Purcell for loaning Paudie his strimmers on various occasions during the year.

The saga of the dressing-rooms still goes on and indeed the state of the dressing-rooms deteriorates every year. However, I’m glad to report progress has been made in this regard and I feel, only for the volume of work required by the centenary this year, work might have started on the renovations by now. Earlier this year, extensive plans were drawn up by Donal Mangan for the extension and complete renovation of the existing club-rooms. However, the prices were also extensive. Revised plans were then drawn up and are at this moment going out to tender. Hopefully, work will commence this year and we can bring our dressing-rooms up to the highest standards.

Membership of the club for 1988 showed a slight increase on last year, 176 as against 168. Some old members did not renew membership and quite a few people joined for the first time. I feel there is still much scope for improvement on these figures, especially with the recent successes of all our teams. Liam Shannon is the man mainly responsible for this work, assisted by John Purcell.

This leads me on to the area of finance. Everybody loves money, needs money and can never have too much of it and the Laune Rangers club is no exception. The past twelve months proved to be a most expensive year. However, thanks to the Trojan efforts of our 30 or so sellers, or should I call them collectors, our Centenary Draw proved to be an outstanding success. Money from this draw, coupled with some very generous sponsorships and grants, puts us in a reasonably healthy financial position facing 1989. Our night-out in the Manor Inn last Saturday night was the club’s way of saying ‘thank you’ to these people. However, as the job of financing the club on a day-to-day basis goes on, rising every year, not to mention the forthcoming building programme, I believe that the job of raising funds for a majot development like this should be put in the hands of a Finance Committee, which I intend to set up in the coming weeks. In the meantime, if anyone feels they have any ideas to offer in this regard, I would only be too glad to hear them. I will deal with our sponsors at a later stage of my report.

On the playing fields, our teams contested 12 finals, winning 9. 1988 was again a highly successful year for our juveniles, though the number of trophies won is down from last year’s record-breaking number.

Once again our thanks must go to Seamus Murphy for the excellent work he does on Sunday mornings with boys between the ages of 6 and 10, sometimes as many as 60 boys. There’s no doubt but that Seamus’ contribution is a vital part of the success this club enjoys at juvenile level throughout the county. It is heartening to report that Seamus has enlisted the help of James Ferris and Willie Fitzgerald for the Sunday morning sessions.

At U-12 level, Patsy and Bertie maintained their unbeaten record in Mid-Kerry competitions with a 0-14 to 1-8 win over Beaufort in the final. In the Co. Championship, we failed to reach the semi-final for the first time in eight years. That reverse will, I’m sure, only spur the lads on to greater things next year. Our U-12B reached the Co. Semi-final, going down to Kerins O Rahullys ‘B’.

Our U-14 footballers, under the watchful eyes of Pat Pigott and John Clifford, won the Co. Championship in fine style, defeating Kerins O Rahillys in the final by 1-5 to 0-3. Playing with a much-depleted team, they drew with Milltown in the Mid-Kerry final. The match was re-fixed but Milltown failed to turn up. Our U-14B squad reached the Co. Semi-final, going down to Austin Stacks. Patrick Pigott, who also acts as Laune Rangers Bord na nOg Secretary, was recently elected to the GPC of Bord na nOg Chiarraí.

At U-15 level, our boys took part in the Co. U-15 Blitz without success. Our U-16 team was defeated in the Mid-Kerry final by Beaufort, 1-8 to 1-5, and also in the Co. Semi-final by the eventual winners, Austin Stacks. However, seven of this team helped Mid-Kerry win the Co. U-16 District Board Championship.

There’s no doubt but that our glory team this year are our minor footballers. Not rated that highly at the start of the year, this team, through hard work and dedication, proved many people wrong. Jerome Conway, as coach, brought home the first honours of this team when they captured the Co. Minor League with a fine 3-9 to 1-11 win over Legion in the final. John Evans then took over as coach for the championship and this proved a long, enduring task involving 6 matches, 2 of which were draws. After an inauspicious start, a draw with St. Brendan’s in Ardfert, 0-9 to 0-9, this team went on to win the replay at home, 2-10 to 0-3. Beale were next to feel the brunt of this team in the quarter-final, going down 2-10 to 0-3. Shannon Rangers went down to an eight-point defeat in the semi-final. So the stage was set for a repeat of the U-16, U-14 and U-12 finals of the last six years. Each time, Stacks had won but each time our lads got a little closer, the margin was only one point at U-16 level. The first match was drawn. Stacks were deemed lucky. They had no such luck in the replay as they were trounced 1-12 to 1-5. This was a great team performance and great credit is due to trainer, John Evans, and selectors Jerome Conway and Maurice Corkery. The Mid-Kerry Minor Championship came to its inevitable conclusion the week after the Championship replay and Glenbeigh/Glencar succumbed on the score 4-12 to 0-4.

Perhaps the greatest occasion football-wise in Killorglin this year and for many a year occurred in September. The occasion was the coming to Killorglin of the victorious Kerry minor team. Thousands lined the streets to welcome home our own heroes, captain Danny Cahill, Billy O Sullivan, Tommy Byrne and selector Jerome Conway. My dearest wish is that the streets will be filled like this twice next year to celebrate a Co. Championship win and to welcome home another Laune Rangers’ minor captain with the Tom Markham Trophy.

Our U-21 team, trained by that man who is so used to success, James Sheehan, and selector Maurice Corkery, nearly made sure of a double in the championship stakes when going under by the narrowest of margins to a strong South-Kerry side in the final. In the earlier rounds they had accounted for Kenmare, Mid-Kerry and Feale Rangers. Nevertheless, there is great hope for next year as fourteen of the first fifteen are eligible again. My thanks to the three members of the Cromane Club who helped us to the final, James O Shea, Patie Casey and William Joy.

Laune Rangers’ seniors created their own piece of history during 1988 by capturing the Mid-Kerry Senior Championship for the 6^th year-in-a-row. We now have 13 Mid-Kerry Senior Championships. Six players reached Patsy Joy’s and Pat O Shea’s record of winning six Mid-Kerry Senior Championship medals on the field of play. They are Peter Lyons, James Sheehan, Paudie Sheahan, Joseph Shannon, Tom Johnston and Pierce Prendiville.

This year’s final was the poorest for many years, as the challenge from Glenbeigh/Glencar in the final was very poor. Laune Rangers won the Mid-Kerry League once again, beating old rivals Milltown/Castlemaine in the final by 1-11 to 0-9. Our ambition to win the Lee Strand Co. League Div. 1 title for the third year-in-a-row was thwarted by Dr. Crokes in a play-off in Milltown – score: Dr. Crokes 2-7, Laune Rangers 0-11. Indeed, I suppose, the league was lost much earlier in the year versus Spa. The team played 11 Co. Leagues games, winning 9. In the Co. Senior Football Championship, we had our share of luck as regards getting three home venues. A tremendous victory over West-Kerry by 2-10 to 2-4 sent us into the second round versus Mid-Kerry on a confident note. Our confidence was well placed, as we totally dominated the Mid-Kerry men, winning in the end by 0-7 to 0-2. As the quarter-final versus Castleisland Desmonds drew near, key players, Shane O Sullivan and Gerard Murphy withdrew through injury. On the day, others were not 100% fit and the team did not perform up to its true form and we were once again out of the championship on the score of 1-10 to 1-4. Our entry to the Club Championship this year was a short one. We had a bye to the semi-final, where once again Desmonds were the opposition. On the day we were short some key players and we lost. There is no doubt that, if we are seriously committed to winning this Championship or indeed any Co. Championship, a more mature and honest approach is required from every player on the panel. I’d like to congratulate our centenary captain on a good year’s work and also on his centenary wedding – congratulations, Pierce. My thanks, also, to selectors John Clifford and Patsy Joy and to trainer, Noel O Mahony, for the work they did throughout the year.

The ‘B’ team once again captured the Mid-Kerry Championship. However, the final was won versus Milltown/Castlemaine without the ball ever being kicked, as they refused to play on the scheduled date. In the Co. League, the same story applies as last year. The ‘B’ team started well but, after a couple of setbacks, it became increasingly difficult to field a team. There is no excuse for this in such a big club.

During the year many of our players represented Kerry in various grades, Danny Cahill, Billy O Sullivan and Tommy Byrne at minor level, Timmy Fleming and Shane O Sullivan at U-21 level and Gerard Murphy and Joe Shannon, who battled bravely to wrest the Munster Senior Championship from Cork. Congratulations to all these players and I have no doubt but that they will be joined by many more in the next year.

This brings us to the hurling side of our club, for which Pat Lynch, Secretary of the hurling club, kindly provided me with these details: ‘The Centenary of the Laune Rangers has come and gone and there were many memorable events during the year. Sad to say, the state of hurling in the Killorglin area did not progress much during 1988. The year opened on an encouraging note when our minor hurlers won the Co. League Div. 2. They showed great heart and courage in the final against Abbeydorney, a team that had beaten them in an earlier round. We had hopes of doing well in the Co. Minor Championship, particularly as we were able to pick players from the St. Pat’s Club, Killarney. We were unlucky to be drawn against Kilmoyley in the first round and were badly beaten, having stayed with them for forty minutes. However, we were short a few of our better players for various reasons. One of our players, Jerry O Sullivan from Firies, received a very serious facial injury in that game. His parenst are now faced with a dental bill of £1,500. The maximum insurance benefit is £250, so there is a large balance to make up. I feel that we should do something to raise some funds to help his parents to pay the bill. I also feel that, in future, it should be compulsory for all players, playing for this club, to wear helmets with facial guards. We took part in the Minor ‘B’ Championship and were beaten by a late goal by Ardfert.

The only other team to show promise during the past year was the U-12 team. Under the watchful eyes of Joe Crowe, maurce Lynch and Bill Hearne, the young players developed skills and generally enjoyed themselves on Saturday mornings during the year. They performed well in a blitz-type tournament in Kenmare and in our own very successful Centenary Tournament. They were beaten finalists in both tournaments. They also beat St. Pat’s selection in two challenge games. A planned visit to Causeway in September had to be called off at the last minute due to bad weather and an unplayable pitch. I feel that we should concentrate on this age-group during the coming year and we should encourage the players to develop their skills in their spare time as a couple of hours per week of organised coaching are not enough.

We fared badly in all other age-groups during 1988, failing to field teams in U-15 and U-16 competitions and being badly beaten at U-14 level. I can see no great prospects of improvement in these age-groups and I see no point in entering competitions. Instead, we should amalgamate with St. Mary’s or St. Pat’s and give an outlet to the few players in these age-groups who wish to continue playing hurling. We are not being helped in the promotion of hurling by Bord na nOg Chiarraí who have the football and hurling competitions running simultaneously for the same age-groups. We should try to change this. We were represented on the Co. U-16 team by Ger Hearne, Robert Kennedy and Michael Lynch.

At adult level, we took part in the East-Kerry 11-a-side competition and reached the losers’ final. Soe of our players played with St. Mary’s in the Co. Junior League and Championship and we took part in the Co. U-21 Championship with the help of St. Pat’s players.

I would like to thank all those who, in any way, helped out during the past year. I must mention particularly John Purcell, Bill Hearne, Joe Crowe, Maurice Lynch, Bart Moriarty and Pat Lynch, who assisted me with the hurling report, for their continued dedication to an almost lost cause.’

That brings me on to the final item in my report – the Centenary Report. It was in early 1987 that the word ‘Centenary’ started to be mentioned frequently in club meetings. Initially, it didn’t provoke much excitement, as 1988 seemed a long way off. However, after a few such meetings, it was decided to form a Centenary Committee, under the chairmanship of James Coffey and Secretary, Patsy Cronin. This committee was to work closely with Pat O Shea in relation to the Trail Blazers, the club history, and also plan activities for the centenary year. Members of this committee were mainly past officers of the club and long-time members. During 1987 alone, this committee held 14 meetings. During 1988, they met 26 times. At a club meeting on 1/4/88, it was decided to form a centenary sub-committee under the chairmanship of James Coffey and Secretary, myself, to think up various events for the year and to carry out all the centenary celebrations. It was also our duty to raise funds through sponsorship. This committee met a week later. It was decided to run a seven-a-side tournament, a four team 15-a-side tournament, a Centenary mass, Centenary Banquet, sports meeting, juvenile hurling blitz, golf tournament and produce a centenary crest among other things. As regards sponsorship, it was decide to target individual companies for specific items of expenditure and this idea worked well.

The first big weekend of centenary year was the August bank Holiday weekend, when the Centenary Mass was celebrated, the 7-a-side tournament was held and the launch of the long-awaited Trail Blazers took place. The launch of the history here in the manor Inn was very generously sponsored by Londis, through the good work of Pat O Grady, a former players and secretary of the club and for this we are very grateful. Much planning went into the night to get as many people associated with the club right through the century to attend. John Dowling, Presidetn of Cumann Luthchleas Gael honoured us with his presence, as did Sean Kelly, Chairman of the Co. Board, and Michael McCarthy, Chairman of the Mid-Kerry Board. But there’s no doubt but that the man of the night was author Pat O Shea who has devoted long hours to piece together this fitting tribute to a great club. We, the members of Laune Rangers, owe a great debt to Pat O Shea. Next year, Pat intends putting in volume form the countless pages of additional information he has collected and which is not contained in the book. 5-6 books were printed in total and, at the moment, there are no more than 50 left. My thanks to Duffy’s and Foley’s Newagents for handling the sales of many of the books and to Pat O Mahony for looking after our interests in London.

The seven-a-side tournament, jointly sponsored by Killorglin Credit Union and M.F. Quirke & sons, was a great success. Ten teams took part, including such illustrious names as Nemo Rangers, Kingdom (London) and John Mitchels, to name but a few. In the end, the cream came to the top and Laune Rangers beat John Mitchels in the final on the score of 8-15 to 4-10. Our next big football tournament took place on the weekend 24^th/25^th September. Great difficulty was had here in getting teams to commit themselves to travel. Championships and replays caused us to lose three of our original selection, Avondhu, Ballymun Kickhams and Dr. Crokes. Nevertheless, the semi-finals took place on the 24^th September, Rockchapel (Cork) defeated Midleton (Cork) and Laune Rangers trounced Valentia on the score 2-17 to 0-5. In the final, Laune Rangers defeated Roackchapel by 3-17 to 1-2. This tournament was very generously sponsored by Lee Strand Co-op, through its manager, William Kennedy. William’s continued interest and support for the club is very much appreciated. The beautiful trophy for this tournament was kindly sponsored by Canon M. Keane P.P. and it is one of the finest trophies anywhere in the country. It is hoped to run this tournament on an annual basis.

Our centenary golf outing in Dooks was a great success, with teams from all over the county taking part. Ironically, Desmonds won this event too. They really stole a lot of our thunder during ’88. Our thanks for organising the event go to Pat Lynch. Thanks also to the captain, secretary and committee of Dooks Golf Club for providing their fine facilities for us, and to our sponsor, Liam Woods.

In the Castle Heights Hotel on 12^th Nov. the centenary was celebrated in great style by a fine attendance of over 270 people. This turned out to be a wonderful occasion and, if you can’t remember it, you can contact Sheila Purcell who very kindly made a video of the occasion. Our thanks for the night go to Bernie and Marie O Riordan of the Castle Heights, and Christy, Pat and myles for their marathon efforts. The night was very generously sponsored by AIB, through John B. O Shea, Niall Kelly and Aidan Gannon. Thanks to O Sullivan’s Bakery for the cake and to all who gave spot-prizes.

Finally, the club is indebted to our other very many sponsors, many of whom are mentioned in Trail Blazers, as they sponsored chapters of the book. Here is a list of the others, not already mentioned, Bank O Ireland, Kilnge, Liebig, Crowley’s Drapery, Mulvihill Pharmacy, The Fishery, Bianconi Inn, Moriarty’s Furniture & Carpet Centre, O Donnell’s Bakery, Manor Inn, Kerry Co. Board, Mid-Kerry Board, Kerry Bord na nOg, Cromane Sea-food, Larkin’s Bar & Bakery (Milltown), Killarney Mineral Waters, The Red Fox, Ringside Rest, Tennants, George Boyle, Murphy’s Electrical, O Shea’s Bakery (Milltown), Jim Galvin, Nick’s Bar and Restaurant, Looney’s Headstones, Dooks Golf Club, Kerry Group PLC, Marion Lyons, Gap of Dunloe Industries, Prendiville/Mangan/Clifford Veterinary Surgeons, Bunker’s Bar, ITGWU and Michael Hoare.

Congratulations to James Coffey on being returned once again as Treasurer of the Kerry Co. Board. There are just a few more people to thank for their work in ’88 – Bart Moriarty (Secretary of the Co. Referees’ Committee), Mike Dowd, for his help with Scór, and Mike and Margaret O Shea, The Manor Inn, who always look after Laune Rangers very well. For my own part, I would like to thank my fellow officers for all their help and assistance during what was a busy year and one man, in particular, who is not an officer, John Purcell. I would now like to quote a few lines from the preface of Trail Blazers. These lines spell out to me the way in which we can achieve what we all want – success. ‘Success comes only where there is unity, commitment, discipline and skill. Unity can be had only in the absence of selfishness and petty jealousies, commitment only where the players are willing to make sacrifices for the club and not for an individual motive, and slikk can only flourish where there is sufficient potential in the number of players available.’ Ladies and gentlemen, I know we can succeed.

Go raibh maith agaibh,

Tomás Mac Coillithe,

Rúnaí.

21/12/’88.”