1989

Laune Rangers – 1989

 Laune Rangers won the Co. Senior Football Championship for the seventh time – the first since 1911.

Laune Rangers won the Co. Senior Football League Division 1 for the third time.

Laune Rangers ‘B’ won the Co. Senior Football League Div. 4.

Laune Rangers won the Mid-Kerry Senior Football League for the fourth year-in-a-row and tenth time overall.

Laune Rangers ‘B’ won the Mid-Kerry Senior ‘B’ Football Championship for the seventh time.

Laune Rangers won the Co. Minor Football championship for the third year-in-a-row and the fourth time in total.

Laune Rangers won the Co. Minor Footall League (5^th time) and the Mid-Kerry Championship for the twenty second time.

Mid-Kerry won the Co. U-16 Inter-Divisional Board Championship for the third time.

Laune Rangers lost the Co. U-16 Football Championship Final but won the Mid-Kerry Championship for the eighteenth time.

Laune Rangers lost the Co. U-14 Championship Final but won the Mid-Kerry Championship for the nineteenth time.

Laune Rangers won the Co. U-12 Championship for the fifth time and the Mid-Kerry Championship for the fourteenth time.

Kerry beat Cork in the Munster Minor Football Championship Final – Pa Murphy played at left fullback, Eoin Joy at right halfback, Billy O Sullivan captained the team from full-forward and Timmy Corkery played at left full-forward.

Kerry lost to Cork in the Munster Senior Football Championship Final – Timmy Fleming played at right half-forward and Joe Shannon at left half-forward.

Billy O Shea made his Laune Rangers senior debut on Mon. 30^th Oct. in the Co. Club Championship against Austin Stacks in Connolly Park.

James Coffey was re-elected as Joint-Treasurer of the Kerry Co. Board for the seventeenth successive year.

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

Pat Pigott was elected onto the GPC of Bord na nOg Chiarraí.

Maurice Harmon was elected as Secretary of the Mid-Kerry Board.

The ‘Danny Kissane’ affair concluded.

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The Centenary A.G.M. of the club took place in The Manor Inn on 21^st Dec. 1988. There was an attendance of 130, which reflected the healthy state of football in the parish. (The Secretary’s Report was given at the end of 1988). The chairman, Jerome Conway, spoke of his great satisfaction at being Chairman in centenary year. He thanked the Centenary Committee for their work in 1988. He had a special word of praise for Pat O Shea, author of the club history, Trail Blazers.

He thanked the trainers of teams at all grades, especially Noel O Mahony, whose team had created history by winning six Mid-Kerry Senior Championships in a row. He went on to speak about the personal pride and satisfaction he had felt when the Tom Markham trophy had been brought to Killorglin in September. He wished outgoing Treasurer, Edward Stack, who was not seeking re-election, well and thanked him for his service. Thanking his fellow officers, players, referees and supporters, he expressed three wishes for 1989: 1. That the club would continue to prosper at both senior and juvenile level, 2. That the clubhouse would be renovated and 3. That the senior team would win the Co. Senior Championship.

Joint Treasurers, James Coffey and Edward Stack, produced a detailed set of accounts, which showed the club to be in a healthy financial position.

Officers for 1989:

President: Paddy Crowley.

Chairman: Jerome Conway.

Vice-Chairman: Jim Galvin.

Secretary: Tommy Woods.

Ass. Secretary: Donal Pigott.

Joint Treasurers: James Coffey & Patrick Pigott.

Registrar: Liam Shannon.

P.R.O.: Peter Lyons.

Chairman of Laune Rangers Bord na nOg – Pat Pigott.

Co. Board Del: John Evans.

Mid-Kerry Board Delegates: John Clifford & Tommy Woods.

Senior Selection Committee: Noel O Mahony (Coach/Trainer), John Clifford and Patsy Joy.

(A vote was required to decide the issue, as follows: Noel O Mahony 108; John Clifford 94; Patsy Joy 86 and John Evans 39 – there were two spoilt votes).

‘B’ Team Selection Committee: John Purcell, Edward Stack, Maurice Corkery and Seamus O Sullivan.

Minor Selection Committee: John Evans (Coach/Trainer), Maurice Corkery and Jerome Conway.

U-21 Selection Committee: James Sheehan (Coach/Trainer), Noel O Mahony and Maurice Corkery.

 

Motions:

1. “That 3 substitutes be used in all games at all levels, where possible.” Proposed by Bart Moriarty. The spirit of the motion was adopted.
2. “That obscene language and unsporting behaviour should not be tolerated by the club.” Proposed by Bart Moriarty. The spirit of that motion was adopted.
3. “That the club makes an effort to encourage more people to take up refereeing.” Proposed by Bart Moriarty. That motion was passed unanimously.
4. “That two teams be entered into the Mid-Kerry Senior League.” Proposed by John Evans. That motion was adopted.
5. “That approaches be made to Cromane with a view to having one club in the parish again.” Proposed by John Clifford. That motion was passed.
6. “That a special game be played in 1992, to celebrate our centenary as the first Kerry team to reach an All-Ireland Final.” Proposed by Noel O Mahony. That motion was passed.

 

Co. Senior Football Championship

19 teams were in the Co. Senior Football Championship – St. Kieran’s, Dr. Croke’s, Gneeveguilla, Desmonds, Laune Rangers, Austin Stack’s, Valentia, Killarney (Spa/Legion), South Kerry, Kerins O Rahilly’s, John Mitchel’s, Beale, Kenmare, Shannon Rangers, Feale Rangers, St. Brendan’s, West-Kerry, East-Kerry, Mid-Kerry.

 

Rd. 1 at Killorglin on Sun. 25^th June at 7pm: Laune Rangers 0-12; Killarney 0-7.

That was a workmanlike performance. Danny Cahill was great. Joe Shannon and James O Shea were great. Gerard Murphy kicked some great points from play. The Kerryman carried the following report: ‘Greater all-round teamwork, allied to Gerard Murphy’s individual scoring touch, were the key factors as Laune Rangers successfully overcame their first Championship hurdle in Killorglin last Saturday evening.

Facing a stiff breeze, Rangers started the game in a determined mood and were in front after two minutes through Mike Moriarty. It was a score which was dubious, to say the least, with one of the umpires hesitating, before finally raising the white flag. There was no doubt, however, about Rangers’ second a minute later, with Timmy Fleming lofting over a beauty from 30 metres. Rangers were, at this stage, exerting a firm grip at midfield where Joe Shannon was a shining light. A free against Killarney’s Dan Kennedy for overholding gave Timmy Fleming the chance to notch point number three after six minutes. Killarney, with wind assistance, had yet to mount a worthwhile attack and it wasn’t until the 11^th minute that they notched their first score through Ml. McAuliffe, who put over a ‘45’ metre free.

Shannon continued to excel at midfield as Rangers retained the initiative with the first quarter of the game coming to a close. Killarney introduced Con Carroll for Dermot Reen, with Dan Kennedy reverting to midfield alongside Donal Culloty, who had been switched from his attacking position.

A high challenge on Joe Shannon gave Timmy Fleming the simplest of chances to kick Laune Rangers into a three points’ lead. Maurice Cronin was wide after a good build-up before Francis O Doherty reduced the leeway with a deflected shot, which deceived goalkeeper, Peter Lyons, as it grazed the crossbar. With nine minutes left in the first half, Michael McAuliffe landed his second and Killarney’s third score of the game, as the East Kerry man began to come more into the picture around midfield. Fleming went to midfield for Killorglin in a direct swop with O Shea as the elusive Gerard Murphy popped up to kick a fine left-footed score to increase Rangers’ lead to two points.

Conor McNeice was now placed on the fringe of the small square as Killarney strove frantically to put together a winning formula. Some fine individual defensive play by Padraig Brosnan and James Cahill was, however, negated by needless squandering at the other end. Rangers deservedly retained their two points advantage as the teams went to the dressing rooms for the half-time break.

Killarney resumed with Pat Cronin replacing Denis O Mahony. Maurice Cronin was now at midfield and Donal Culloty had reverted to the forty. James O Shea and Timmy Fleming had also exchanged positions, with Fleming back in his familiar berth at wing forward. The second half started in quite similar fashion to the first, with a point by G. Murphy prompting a deal of controversy and incurring the wrath of the Killarney sideline mentors. Dan Kennedy had a quick reply at the other end with a fine long-range effort. Pierce Prendiville and Mike McAuliffe were both wide before Timmy Fleming, following a quick interchange of passes, kicked Rangers’ seventh score of the hour.

Paul Griffin was prominent in attack for Rangers and they continued to look the most likely winners. Moriarty was unlucky to see a gaoling effort come back off a post, but G. Murphy angled over a beauty from 45 metres to give his side a deserved four points lead. Fleming widened the gap with another point almost immediately and after the same player had rattled a shot off the crossbar, Murphy kicked another superb score to put Rangers into a commanding position as the game entered the final quarter.

Donal Culloty was now back at midfield, where Killorglin’s James O Shea was beginning to make a sizeable contribution. McAuliffe, from a free, pulled back a point for Killarney with thirteen minutes left, but even he couldn’t match the brilliance of Gerard Murphy at the other end. Murphy kicked another brilliant left-footed score to put six clear points between the teams. Jerry Griffin used his pace to pull back a point for Killarney with eight minutes left, but Paul Griffin replied immediately for Laune Rangers. Then Maurice Cronin kicked the last score of the game for Killarney.

Over the hour there was no doubting Laune Rangers’ supremacy. Their defence was confident and assured all through, being helped greatly by the steady play of Danny Cahill in the right corner. Shannon and O Shea had their own periods of dominance in the midfield area, while, up front, Murphy was a huge influence. Fleming, in the second half, was also prominent, while Griffin and Moriarty won a great deal of possession, even if their finishing, on occasions, failed to match their work rate.

Ref: Maurice O Sullivan (Ballyheigue) had a fine game, being firm, authoritative and consistent all through.’

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Danny Cahill, Michael O Reilly, James Sheehan, Mark O Connor, Paudie Sheahan, Tom Johnston, Joe Shannon, James O Shea, Gerard Murphy (0-5), Pierce Prendiville, Timmy Fleming (0-5), Patie Casey, Michael Moriarty, Paul Griffin (0-2). Subs: Pat McKenna for P. Casey: Pat O Brien, Anthony Shannon, Brian O Shea, Liam Foley, Shane O Sullivan, William Joy, Billy O Sullivan, Timmy Corkery.

Killarney: Peter O Leary (Legion), Dan Kennedy (Spa) 0-1, Padraig Brosnan (Legion), James Cahill (Spa), Jerry Griffin (Legion) 0-1, John Cahill (Spa), Pat O Sullivan (Legion), Der Cronin (Spa), Denis O Mahony (Legion), Francis O Doherty (Spa) 0-1, Maurice Cronin (do) 0-1, Conor McNiece (Legion), Donal Culloty (do), Dermot Reen (do), Michael McAuliffe (Spa) 0-3, one ‘45’. Subs: Pat Cronin (Spa) for D. O Mahony, Connie Carroll (Legion) for Dermot Reen; Pat Adams (do).

 

Q/Final at Currow on Sun. 30^th July: St. Kieran’s 1-4; Laune Rangers 0-13.

Laune Rangers played against the hill and the breeze in the first half. They laboured at midfield, the defence played fairly well but the forwards were poor. Consequently, they were 1-3 to 0-4 in arrears at halftime. Michael Moriarty had missed a sitter, while St. Kieran’s had scored from a penalty. For the first ten minutes of the second half, Rangers were on the defensive. However, Billy O Sullivan broke the ball down to Joe Shannon, who was fouled and Timmy Fleming pointed. From then on Rangers took over and gave an exhibition of point scoring. If only they could have been consistent in their play throughout! However, they were then in the Co. Semi-finals for the first time in seven years.

Eamon Horan reported in The Kerryman as follows: ‘The first half may have belonged in no uncertain manner to defending champions, St. Kieran’s, but the honours at the end of this county senior football championship quarter-final at Currow on Sunday rested fairly and squarely with Laune Rangers. And nobody in the large attendance of 2,500 could deny the Killorglin side the right to a place in the last four in the championship race.

Kieran’s have nobody but themselves to blame for the fact that their interest in the ’89 campaign is at an end. They dominated the opening half, at the end of which they led by 1-3 to 0-4. Then, in the opening minutes of the second half, they had a few gilt-edged scoring chances, which they missed and slowly but surely the game began to run away from them.

The defending champions were greatly boosted by a goal from a penalty after only four minutes of the game – towering midfielder, Mick Galwey, was upended in the parallelogram and Sean McElligott lashed the penalty shot to the net, with goalkeeper, Peter Lyons, diving despairingly to his right. That great score gave Kieran’s a three points’ cushion, Tom Hickey having given the titleholders the lead in the second minute only to have it negatived soon afterwards by Timmy Fleming from a free for a foul on Gerard Murphy.

Rangers cut the deficit with points by Paul Griffin and Fleming (free) in the 13^th and 14^th minute. Galwey was in shimmering form in the middle of the field, even though his partner, Timmy Brosnan, was sadly out of touch in this half. But Kieran’s failed to press home their advantage on the scoreboard. McElligott was wide from a kickable free and Brosnan followed with another miss. Then, when Rangers counter-attacked, Pierce Prendiville fed a lovely ball to Michael Moriarty, but the full-forward shot feebly into the hands of goalkeeper, Brendan Lane. It surely wasn’t the kind of stuff of which champions are made.

In the 19^th minute, McElligott made amends when he converted a free for a foul on himself to put Kieran’s two points clear(1-2 to 0-3). At this point in the proceedings Rangers substituted Kerry minor Billy O Sullivan, for Moriarty at full-forward and this move was to have a profound effect on the game.

Prendiville was off target for Rangers, but Kieran’s showed that they were just as wasteful when first Pa Dennehy and then McElligott (free) were wide of the mark. Seven minutes before halftime Kieran’s launched a lightening offensive and when the ball came to wing forward J. J. Canty, he plied Galwey with a lovely pass and the Currow man belted over a peach of a point from all of 45 yards range. That eased Kieran’s into a three points lead and their supporters were beginning to feel a little bit more comfortable about things.

Laune Rangers tried to retalitate, but both Billy O Sullivan and Timmy Fleming were foiled by the tough-tackling Kieran’s defence before O Sullivan won possession and whipped over a lovely point. The winners launched another scorching attack with James O Shea, Joe Shannon, Paul Griffin and Gerard Murphy getting in on the act before Shannon was fouled and Fleming sent the free kick wide. They attacked again, but O Shea sent high and wide. Rangers then had the ball in the net, but the referee awarded a free out for a square ball. Kieran’s led at halftime, 1-3 to 0-4, having played with the aid of a very slight breeze, which strengthened quite a bit on the resumption – much to the delight of the Laune Rangers men.

The second half was still only in the opening minutes when Kieran’s careered through on a dashing run and Galwey and Freddie Casey combined to put Tommy Hickey through for a very well taken point. We wondered were we about to see the demolition of Rangers. But, to the astonishment of the local supporters, Kieran’s failed to press home their advantage. McElligott dropped a free straight into Peter Lyons’ hands. Then the same player was wide with a close-in free and when full-forward Casey was fouled going through, Timmy Brosnan was just wide with the ensuing free. These misses were to prove mighty costly to the champions.

Shannon and McElligott exchanged wides before Billy O Sullivan coolly picked off a point for the Mid-Kerry men in the 42^nd minute (1-4 to 0-5). Fleming added a great long-range point from a free and suddenly Kieran’s lead had been chopped to a solitary point with Rangers now beginning to up the pace of the game. Kierans tried to hit back but substitute Mossie Dore – he had come on for Casey – was unlucky to see his shot go wide off the left upright. Fleming was wide with a free, but he quickly compensated by steering the ball between the posts following a foul on Shannon (50 minutes) and the sides were level for the second time in the game.

Kieran’s were holding on grimly at this stage but then, Rangers took complete control and in a series of dazzling movements they tore the losers’ defence to shreds. Corner-back, James Sheehan, burst through the middle to whip over a brilliant point for the lead for Rangers and they never looked back after this. Murphy, Shannon and Fleming linked up in a defence-splitting run for Murphy to take a return pass and point with his left foot. Midfielder James O Shea booted over a magnificent point from all of 50 yards range and, when Fleming pointed from another free, Rangers had cruised into a four points lead (0-11 to 1-4).

Mick Galwey tried to rally Kierans but to no avail and in the closing minutes of a now one-sided affair Gerard Murphy showed what a fast and intelligent player he is by bursting through for two great points to set the seal on Rangers’ victory.

On the run of play there could be no disputing Rangers’ right to the laurels. They recovered from a very sluggish opening 30 minutes to unveil their true talents in the second half and once they overhauled their rivals there was just no stopping the rampant men from the Laune. On the strength of what we saw from them in the second half on Sunday, Laune Rangers will take a lot of stopping from here on in as they chase the elusive county championship.

They had their outstanding players in Joe Shannon, James O Shea, Gerard Murphy, Timmy Fleming, Paul Griffin, Billy O Sullivan, James Sheehan, Danny Cahill and Tom Johnston. St. Kierans had good reason to bemoan their lost chances. Had they taken them they might have been there with a sporting chance at the finish. But, as against that, they might not have had the resilience to withstand Rangers’ dynamic finishing burst in which Shannon, Murphy, Fleming, O Shea and James Sheehan were very prominent.’

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Danny Cahill, Michael O Reilly, James Sheehan (0-1), Mark O Connor, Paudie Sheahan, Tom Johnston, Joe Shannon, James O Shea (0-1), Gerard Murphy (0-3), Pierce Prendiville, Timmy Fleming (0-5 frees), Paul Griffin (0-1), Michael Moriarty, Patie Casey. Subs: Billy O Sullivan (0-2) for M. Moriarty; Pat O Brien, Shane O Sullivan, Pat McKenna, Timmy Corkery, Brian O Shea, Anthony Shannon, Liam Foley, William Joy, Liam Hayes, Gary McKenna.

St. Kieran’s: Brendan Lane (Brosna), Tim Geaney (do) capt., Jack O Connell (Knocknagoshel), Sean B. Herlihy (do), Tommy O Connor (Cordal), Eamonn Walsh (Knocknagoshel), Jimmy Keane (do), Timmy Brosnan (Currow), Mick Galwey (do) 0-1, Dave Walsh, Tommy Hickey (0-2), J. J. Canty (Brosna), Sean McElligott (Knocknagoshel) 1-1, a pen. & a free, Freddie Casey (Scartaglin), Pa Dennehy (Currow). Subs: Mossy Dore (Cordal) for F. Casey; Jer Dunlea for D. Walsh.

Ref: Maurice O Sullivan (Ballyheigue) – efficient.

 

Semi-Final at Austin Stack Park, Tralee on Sun. Aug. 27^th: Laune Rangers 1-9; Austin Stacks 0-10.

The relief at the final whistle was enormous. Laune Rangers were in their first final for 78 years. Scenes of delight! They would have to improve for the final. Peter Lyons led by example – his kick-outs were very good. Danny Cahill got a rare dusting in the first half – he improved slightly on the resumption. Paudie Sheahan began hesitantly but he had a great second half. James Sheehan never put a foot wrong and indeed he continuously repelled the Stacks. Mark O Connor kept a tight rein on Ger Power, allowing him but one score. Tom Johnston was mighty at centre half-back, repelling attack after attack – he was, however, caught twice by the speed of John L. McElligott. Shane O Sullivan had a poor first half but recovered in the second period – a mighty leap intercepted a certain goal. Joe Shannon began well, driving forward against the breeze. On the resumption, he seemed to run out of steam. James O Shea played consistently well throughout, scoring a point in each half – the second after he had switched with Timmy Fleming. Gerard Murphy had a quiet game – he scored two points, however. Pierce Prendiville had a very good game, working very hard, probing and breaking. He scored a good point in the first half. Timmy Fleming had a quiet first half and indeed only opened up, having been switched to midfield, when Stacks went one point ahead with ten minutes remaining. One particular leap was out of the top-drawer type and his point from the ‘45’ after Rangers had missed the penalty was the most important of the hour. Pat McKenna had a good first half – his pass to Billy O Sullivan for the goal was very precise. He was replaced in the second half. Billy O Sullivan handled the ball only about three times or so and yet scored 1-1. His goal was of the super type. He received from Pat McKenna and, showing a very cool head, he planted the ball in the corner of the net. His point was another great effort. Paul Griffin, though working very hard, achieved very little and was replaced by Anthony Shannon, who, though he handled the ball but once, gave the vital pass to Billy O Sullivan for his point.

Eamon Horan saw the game thus: ‘This second county senior football championship semi-final on Sunday evening was another ebb and flow affair with the scores level on no fewer than six times over the hour. In the end a power-packed last few minutes by Laune Rangers saw them grab the vital scores, which earned them a place in the final against John Mitchels on September 24.

But that said, it has to be admitted that Stacks threw this game out the window in the second half, which they dominated for long stretches. But the Tralee side were just not able to take the scores that were there for the taking and they eventually yielded the initiative to their rivals.

Stacks looked the more compact and organised side for most of the second half and such was their midfield dominance that their forwards saw an amount of the ball. But time and again men like John L. McElligott, Michael Corcoran, Owen Moynihan, Jerry Fitzmaurice and Darren Aherne overplayed the ball and so numerous chances went abegging.

Rangers, for their part, never panicked even when they were under severe pressure in the second half. They are not by any means a spectacular outfit but, nevertheless, they are full of heart and determination and when they do get moving they can make life troublesome for the best of opposition.

The scores were level twice in the opening six minutes before John L. McElligott pointed his second free to put his side in front 0-3 to 0-2 after 10 minutes. Then two and a half minutes later, disaster struck for Stacks. The winners came surging upfield. Corner-back James Sheehan started the movement and it was continued in fluent style by Timmy Fleming and Pat McKenna before the ball came eventually to Billy O Sullivan. The Stacks’ defence seemed to be all at sea as goalkeeper Michael Hussey advanced off his line. O Sullivan coolly slotted a ground shot past the ’keeper and it trickled into the net for the easiest of goals as one of the Stacks’ backs vainly tried to get to it. It was a well-worked movement to be sure but the losers’ defence was caught napping badly and this was to prove their undoing in the end.

The losers rallied and in the 14^th minute corner forward Owen Moynihan pointed. Immediately afterwards Ger Power set up an attack in motion before finding McElligott. The former Kerry player let go with a left-footed drive, which seemed to be destined for the net but the ball rebounded off the butt of the right upright and Rangers had the luckiest of let-offs. A goal then would certainly have been a boon to the Tralee side.

Soon afterwards Power placed Liddy and the wingback swung over a neat point to tie the scores for the third time in the game (1-2 to 0-5). It was noticeable at this stage that both James Sheehan and Shane O Sullivan on the left flank of the winners’ defence were inclined to foul their opponents. Still the battle continued to be waged with fervour and after 21 minutes Rangers broke the deadlock once again when Pierce Prendiville placed Gerard and the wing forward fired over a lovely point from over 40 yards out.

Stacks counter-attacked and Kearns and McElligott combined to put Aherne in possession but goalkeeper and captain Peter Lyons saved from the latter at the expense of a ‘45’. In the 24^th minute Aherne had the Stacks’ fans shouting their approval when he whipped over a point to again level the scores (1-3 to 0-6). Moynihan had a great chance of putting Stacks in front but he was whistled for snapping the ball off the ground. But it was Rangers who finished the half the stronger and they came surging back for a few vital scores, which again pushed them to the front at the interval. Midfielder James O Shea centred the ball and it was broken down to the waiting Timmy Fleming and the young Kerry star curled over a lovely point from out on the right wing and again Rangers were back in the ascendancy. That was in the 26^th minute. Pat Slattery (Stacks) and Paul Griffin (Rangers) were both booked after an altercation, which resulted in a free to Rangers. Fleming duly converted this. Kearns was high and wide with a shot for Stacks before James Sheehan and Joe Shannon put Gerard through for his second point in injury time and so Rangers went in at half-time with a three point cushion (1-6 to 0-6).

John L. McElligott pointed a free for the losers two minutes after the restart. Them McElligott, Corcoran and Walsh launched an offensive but the latter finished the ball wide. Goalkeeper Hussey saved under the crossbar from Fleming before Griffin was wide for Rangers. Stacks were now beginning to get a stranglehold on the exchanges and the winners’ defence was constantly under pressure. But despite all the good work around the middle of the field by Kearns, Walsh and McElligott, the Stacks’ forwards insisted on trying to work their way through for goals when points were there for the taking and this was a practice which was to prove their undoing in the end.

Time and again the ball was worked down the right wing but both Corcoran and Moynihan overplayed it and likewise full-forward Fitzmaurice, who won an amount of good possession, was inclined to take too much out of the ball and, as a result, some gilt-edged chances were lost. Stacks attacked and Walsh took a free, which Fitzmaurice got and sent wide. Soon after goalman Lyons saved from Moynihan. Stacks levelled matters for the fifth time with points by Moynihan and McElligott (free) in the 44^th and 46^th minutes. Two minutes later Stacks hit the front for the third time in the game when Aherne plied Power with a pass and the winger picked off a neat point (0-10 to 1-6).

But that was to be Stacks’ last score of the game. They had chances aplenty of kicking long-range points but they foolishly tried to work the ball in close and the tactic proved to be disastrous. With 11 minutes remaining, Rangers again overtook their rivals when Prendiville placed O Shea and the midfielder planted the ball between the posts for the equaliser. Then Stacks had another great chance of maybe clinching the issue. John L. McElligott intercepted a pass from one of the Rangers’ backs and sped goalwards from out on the left flank. A goal or a point looked certainbut instead McElligott essayed a high punched ball which was beaten off at the expense of a’45’. Kieran Browne’s effort came to nought. Stacks attacked but Fitzmaurice was wide of the mark.

Six minutes from the end Billy O Sullivan and Griffin sent Murphy through and goalkeeper Michael Hussey upended the Killorglin man in the square and the referee awarded Rangers a penalty. However, Hussey made a wonderful save from Mark O Connor’s spot kick – the ball going out for a ‘45’. Fleming duly pointed the ‘45’ in sparkling style and Rangers were back in the driving seat and this time there were to be no second chances for Stacks.

In those closing minutes Fleming found a new lease of life and, as well as foraging back in defence, he won possession and came surging forward. Stacks seemed to have shot their bolt at this stage as Rangers pressed home their advantage. Murphy was wide for them and then, at the other end, Kearns took a pass from Corcoran but his shot was saved by Peter Lyons. Anthony Shannon had replaced Paul Griffin at right half-forward and Shannon was quick to get into the thick of the fray. Just on the call of time Billy O Sullivan consolidated Rangers’ position with another well-taken point and the Killorglin men were through to the final.

They certainly held their heads even when the tide seemed to be running against them and when they got their chances towards the finish they were quick to grab them. The winners had their outstanding players in Tom Johnston, James Sheehan, Paudie Sheahan, Shane O Sullivan, Joe Shannon, James O Shea, Timmy Fleming, Pierce Prendiville, Gerard Murphy, Billy O Sullivan and substitute, Anthony Shannon. Laune Rangers are thus through to their first final since way back in 1911, when they won the title. So, they will be making the effort of a lifetime when they take on John Mitchels in the decider later this month.

The attendance was 5,000 as against 2,500 at the semi-final on Saturday night.’

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Danny Cahill, Paudie Sheahan, James Sheehan, Mark O Connor, Tom Johnston, Shane O Sullivan, Joe Shannon, James O Shea (0-2), Gerard Murphy (0-2), Pierce Prendivill (0-1), Timmy Fleming (0-3), Pat McKenna, Billy O Sullivan (1-1), Paul Griffin. Subs: Timmy Corkery for P. McKenna, Anthony Shannon for P. Griffin; Michael O Reilly, Michael Moriarty, Brian O Shea, Liam Foley, Pat O Brien, Gary McKenna, Owen Joy. Missing: Patie Casey (injured), Liam Hayes (holidays).

Austin Stacks: Michael Hussey, Eamon O Brien, Mike Crowley, Pat Slattery, Liam Liddy (0-1), Ger O Keeffe, Kieran Browne, Liam Kearns, John Walsh, Michael Corcoran, John L. McElligott (0-4 frees), Ger Power (capt.) 0-1, Owen Moynihan (0-2), Jerry Fitzmaurice, Darren Aherne (0-2).

Ref: Denis Reidy (Ballymacelligott).

 

Co. Senior Football Championship Final

 

The headline in the Kerryman read ‘Laune Rangers can taste glory – Advantage rests ever so slightly in their favour’. Extract from Eamon Horan’s preview: ‘With both teams really hungry for victory, interest in Sunday’s A.I.B. County Football Championship Final between Laune Rangers and John Mitchels is at concert-pitch and there should be a big turn-out of football fans in Fitzgerald Stadium, Killarney, to see these sides do battle for the county’s coveted football title (3.45pm).

Laune Rangers will be endeavouring to win a title that last rested by the Laune as long ago as 1911, while Mitchels, for their part, will be attempting to bridge a gap of 23 years – the Tralee side last took the Bishop Moynihan Cup in 1966. Dan Moynihan will be in charge of the game.

The senior decider is arousing exceptional interest in football quarters all around the county. Divisions were drawn initially with the controversy over the venue for the game, with Mitchels resenting the fact that it was fixed for Killarney. But should the Tralee side emerge victorious on Sunday afternoon, such matters will not even be spoken about in the flush of victory.

However, Laune Rangers are going to be an extremely difficult side to overcome. They have been the County League Champions twice in recent years and they are also bidding for their seventh Mid-Kerry title in a row – quite a staggering performance to say the least. The fact that Rangers celebrated their centenary last year means that they have come of full age as far as being an integral part of football in the Kingdom is concerned. Hence victory on Sunday would be the perfect complement to recent birthday celebrations. At the outset of the current championship few forecasters would have plumped for Rangers and Mitchels to make it all the way to the final.

One very salient factor hangs over this unique county final clash and that is that in the only game they met in this year Mitchels emerged merited winners in the County league by a margin of nine points(1-9 to 0-3). As a matter of fact, Rangers’ score were all from frees by Timmy Fleming. That win must be a source of great sustenance to Mitchels as they await Sunday’s showdown with the men from the Laune. Equally so, that reverse must be a source of considerable worry for Rangers.

Much, of course, is going to depend on how Gleeson and James O Dowd shape up in the middle of the field for Mitchels against Joe Shannon and James O Shea. The latter pair is fast and strong and will not be easily denied. The outcome of the exchanges hereabout could play a vital role in determining who will wear the mantle of champions on Sunday evening.

Likewise, Martin Dennehy’s physical wellbeing will be of paramount importance. Mitchel’s defence is faced with a king-sized job in trying to curb the menace emanating from Murphy, Prendiville and Fleming in the half-line and Griffin, McKenna and O Sullivan inside them. If Rangers half-forwards are allowed any great latitude, I think that they could sew it up for the Mid-Kerry men. I think, bearing the injuries to Dennehy and Gleeson in mind, the advantage must rest ever so slightly with Laune Rangers if for no other good reason but that.

However, I know that there is a steely determination permeating the Mitchel’s camp in their bid to recapture a title they last held in 1966. And as well as that, Donal McEvoy is on record as saying that Boherbue are due a ‘blinder’. If they do have such a game, I will be only too delighted to have been proven wrong by my friends in Boherbue. Most important of all, however, is that we have a game of football worthy of such a great occasion and free from rancour and unsporting conduct.’

 

Upon visiting the team training in the J. P. O Sullivan Park prior to the final John Barry previewed the game as follows in The Kerryman: “Noel O Mahony has been trainer cum selector of the Laune Rangers’ team since 1983 and in that time he has delivered six Mid-Kerry Championships in a row and two County Leagues. But those very worthy achievements will pale by comparison, if he guides the famed Killorglin club to victory over John Mitchels in Sunday’s county championship final.

‘This is the big one,’ said Noel. ‘This is what you must aspire to. This is the ultimate goal. It’s a long wait since 1911.’

Noel O Mahony had just completed a rigorous session at J. P. O Sullivan Park. There was a marvellous turn-out, with the only absentees being the minors on the panel who were involved in the county championship final on the following Saturday evening, and it was easy to decipher that spirit was riding high in the Laune Rangers’ camp. Joe Shannon was participating enthusiastically, despite carrying a cast on his hand, and there was plenty of edge in the end-to-end football that was progressing on the field. Laune Rangers’ players don’t believe in minding each other in the run-up to the most important game of their lives. There has been the odd ‘argument’ on the field and that is a healthy sign. It’s full-out or nothing and, make no mistake about it, they will report fighting fit in the Fitzgerald Stadium on Sunday.

Nobody was predicting that it is anything more than a 50-50 game, but there was an underlying feeling of optimism that the result in the end of the day would favour Laune Rangers. It was agreed that John Mitchels might have the psychological advantage arising from the June County League clash, which saw Mitchels very deservedly triumph by nine points, but at least one player was prepared to say that this was probably Rangers’ worst performance of the year.

Anyway, Rangers intend making sure that there will be no repeat and it would be totally against predictions if there was. Noel O Mahony thinks that it will come down to form on the day. ‘Championship football is like that,’ he said. In relation to the County League defeat by Mitchels, he said that the Mitchels team marked very tightly. ‘Our fellows were not able to get away from them and play their usual game,’ he said. ‘That is a bit worrying, but, somehow, I don’t think they will be able to put the shackles on us like that on Sunday.’

Noel O Mahony felt that his team had the bit of luck that was going against Austin Stacks in the county semi-final, but he was happy with the way his backs stood up to a lot of pressure in the second half. ‘I wouldn’t like to see us go out of the game the way we did against Stacks for 20 minutes of the second half, but we are usually a strong second-half team and it was out of character for us. John Mitchels are also a strong second-half team and that makes everything that bit more interesting.’

Noel is happy with the way the Rangers’ players have trained. “I have certainly got a full commitment from them,” he said, ‘We had 24 training tonight and we have 29 on the panel. They all give it everything.” He will be looking for exactly the same commitment on Sunday. “I know that a lot of games can be won by good individual displays, but all our players will have to play well on Sunday,’ he said. ‘It must be a fifteen man effort. Absolutely.’

Noel O Mahony once lost an All-Ireland Junior Football Final (Home) to Kerry. That was in 1963, when he was playing with Wexford (he was teaching in the Leinster county at the time). He would have graduated to a much higher level of football had he been able to stay in Kerry, because he was regarded as a more than useful operator when he came back to play in the county. A grandson of one of Laune Rangers’ 1911 championship heroes, Paddy Foley, he has strong views on the virtual non-existence of a closed season. ‘You are going full belt for ten months of the year,’ he said. ‘There should be a closed season of three or four months.’ He is, of course, right. His final summing up on Sunday: ‘I hope that we get the breaks and the bit of luck that is going on the day. That could swing it our way.’

Acting as selectors with Noel O Mahony are Patsy Joy and John Clifford. Patsy Joy, like Noel O Mahony, thinks that the breaks on the day could decide it. ‘Since we met Mitchels last, we have to take down nine points and that is a lot,’ he said. ‘It’s going to be a very tough one and we will really have to be at our best to pull it off.’

Patsy Joy gave tremendous service to the Laune Rangers senior team over a 19-year playing career (from 1962 to 1980) and he trained the senior team in 1979, 1980 and 1981. Few are better qualified to talk about football in the club and Patsy gives much of the credit for Rangers’ present position of prominence to two men in particular, Pat O Shea and Jerome Conway. ‘They started the youth policy and were great men to the club,’ said Patsy. He has one regret and that is that Pat O Shea will not be involved with Rangers in the excitement of Sunday. Underage football continues to thrive in Laune Rangers and it speaks for itself that the club reached the final of all underage championships in the county this year (U-12, U-14, U-16 and minor), as well as the senior. That copperfastens its future.

Patsy Joy, while seeing Sunday’s game as a 50-50 affair, believes that a lot will depend on Rangers’ half-backs and midfield. ‘If they can get enough of the ball up to our forwards, I think we could shade it,’ said Patsy.

John Clifford was captain in 1981 when Laune Rangers last reached the county semi-final. He was marking none other than John Egan and South Kerry triumphed by 1-12 to 1-6. ‘1 would say that the individuals were as good in ’81, but I think that there is more teamwork in this team and they have more experience, too, from their county league campaigns,’ said John. ‘Mitchels are great championship battlers and it will obviously be a very close game, with, perhaps, only a couple of points in it either way. The midfield battle will be very important. If we can get on top here, it could swing it for us. Killarney is a good, open pitch and should suit both teams, because they play good open football.’

Centre-half back for Rangers is Tom Johnston and he spoke for all his colleagues when he said that it was great to be in the county final. ‘You will never get anything soft off a Tralee team and it’s going to be one hell of a battle,’ said Tom. ‘Every one of our fellows will have to improve an awful lot from the county league match in Tralee and it will have to be a powerful overall team effort. Like ourselves, Mitchels only won in the last five minutes of the county semi-final. It could be down to the last five minutes again on Sunday.’

Centre-half forward Pierce Prendiville says that he ‘is hopeful’. ‘We will have to show a very big improvement but, hopefully, that improvement will be forthcoming,’ he said.

Publican, Jimmy Coffey, is treasurer of the Laune Rangers’ club and has served it as chairman, vice-chairman, secretary and public relations officer since he first became involved in 1953, as assistant secretary of the Laune Rangers minor hurling club. ‘My forecast is Rangers by a couple of points,’ said Jimmy. ‘However, if we don’t get enough ball at midfield we are going to be in trouble. Mitchels halfback line is their strongest sector, while our strongest line is our half-forward line. Superiority at midfield is likely to be crucial.’

Jimmy Coffey didn’t think he would see Laune Rangers in a county final after their defeat by West Kerry in the 1987 county championship. ‘I thought that was going to be our year. You never know, do you?’ Interestingly, the Laune Rangers club was formed in the hallway outside Jimmy Coffey’s pub in 1888. His grandfather was the first secretary.

Overseeing the training at J. P. O Sullivan Park, was Liam Shannon, father of Joe and Anthony. Like Peter Lyons, Anthony Shannon was born in England. ‘Our fellows are putting in a terrific effort and it won’t be lack of fitness that will beat us,’ said Liam, who is an agent for Dawn Milk in Killorglin and supplies milk free to the players after training. It’s a 50-50 game and it’s going to be tough. I think that we will get there, but it will be very close. A point will do me.’ And it will do every man and woman who ever had affiliation to the great Killorglin club!’

 

Mark Kilden in Kerry’s Eye, previewed as follows: “When I visited J. P. O Sullivan Park on Sunday evening last, trainer Noel O Mahony had an almost full panel out training. The first man I met was Jerome Conway, a man very much involved with Laune Rangers at all levels. He says the training is going very well. The team won’t lack fitness in the big Killarney pitch. James O Shea, Gerard Murphy, Pierce Prendivile, Tom Johnston and Joe Shannon never were better.

Jerome rates Donal McEvoy and Martin Denehy as Mitchels’ most dangerous forwards. ‘The last time both sides met in the championship was in 1983,” Jerome said. ‘Rangers led 1-4 to nil at halftime but lost 3-2 to 1-4. They never scored in the second half and Mitchels got 3-2.The teams have undergone many changes since then. Only about six players in each team remain. 1911,’ said Jerome, ‘is a long time for Rangers without a Senior Championship. That will be put right on Sunday. It will be very close but we will be out in front at the final whistle.’ With the U-12 and Minot titles already won, Jerome is very hopeful that the senior title will follow.

John Clifford, selector, says, ‘It is a 50-50 game. Mitchels are an excellent team. I look to our midfield to give us the advantage. I am confident we will win by one or two points.’ Mike O Donnell, one of Rangers’ best and loyal clubmen says that this is the best Laune Rangers team he has ever seen. Mike will be happy if they win by two or three points.

Bernadette O Mahony, sister of trainer Noel, is delighted with the team’s progress. Bernadette, a great sports lady, is confident that the cup will rest in its rightful home next Sunday night. She is looking forward to a lively match and the celebrations, which will follow. Bernadette and friends say that they will have plenty to cheer about on Sunday.

The man who leads Laune Rangers, goalkeeper Peter Lyons, said that it was a great honour for him to lead Laune Rangers in the final after all those heartbreaking years. He said, ‘This is the best prepared and most disciplined team I have played with. The players have tremendous respect for trainer Noel O Mahony and there is great comradeship between the team. If the forwards click as a unit, I can’t see us losing. I am looking forward to bringing the cup over the Laune on Sunday night.’

 

Final on Sun. 24^th Sept. in Fitzgerald Stadium: Laune Rangers 2-13; John Mitchels 1-6.

Rangers had done it at last! All the years of hard graft had been rewarded. They did not expect it so easy – it was beyond their wildest dreams to be able to play the final ten minutes in exhibition style. Joe Shannon played with a broken bone in his wrist – he got an injection from Dr. Vincent Evans beforehand. He was magnificent. The support for the team at the game was phenomenal, with blue and white easily outdoing the green and gold. After the match Pat O Shea came into the dressing room to publicly congratulate the club. They retired to The Castle Heights Hotel for a meal for all of the panel and officers and their partners sponsored by the proprietor, Bernie O Riordan. Bonfires lined the route on the way home, beginning at Ballymalis Cross. The crowds thronged the streets as John Purcell’s lorry brought the heroes up the town, to Mountain View and back to The Manor Inn, led by the Valentia Pipe Band (They gave of their services free of charge). Afterwards they retired to Coffey’s.

Eamon Horan reported on the game in The Kerryman as follows: ‘Laune Rangers became the history-makers at Killarney’s Fitzgerald Stadium on Sunday last when their footballers captured the county senior championship title for the first time in 78 years and, in the process, became the first holders of the brand-new Bishop Moynihan Cup in the championship sponsored for the first time ever by AIB.

Rangers were the fancied side going into this eagerly awaited game. But a cloud of doubt hung over their ability to wrest the coveted title because of their comprehensive defeat at the hands of the Tralee combination in the County League earlier in the year. However, an equal element of doubt shrouded the Boherbue camp because of the serious injuries to two of their leading players, namely midfielder Anthony Gleeson and full-forward Martin Dennehy.

As events transpired, the greater problem lay with the Mitchels – Gleeson having three pain-killing injections before the game, managed to turn in a reasonably fair display earlier in the proceedings but long before the game’s end it was clear that he was but a pale shadow of his real, competent self. Martin Dennehy, for his part, was in distress from the outset and quite obviously, even by his own admission afterwards, should never have been allowed to start the game. The former Kerry under-21 star had a pain-killing injection prior to the start of this final, which was watched by a crowd of 13,000(official gate receipts approx. £24,000). But it was of little or no avail for he was always carrying a bad hamstring injury, which almost completely limited his mobility.

True, Mitchels enjoyed some fine advantage in the opening quarter, due in no small part to the excellence of John Higgins at centre halfback. The former Kerry player held centre half-forward Pierce Prendiville in a vice-grip and time and again he opened up the pathway to goal for his side. But the losers failed to press home their advantage and this was due to the fact that their forwards failed to shake off the shackles of the opposing backs, who stuck to their men like limpits.

Rangers, of course, did upstage their opponents, right from the start of the game when they made a number of vital positional switches from their announced team at the time of going out on the field. County player Timmy Fleming went to midfield in a swop with James O Shea, while full-forward Pat McKenna swopped places with left corner-forward Billy O Sullivan. Quite obviously the changes had the desired results, even allowing for the winners’ tentative start.

Fleming was lethargic and remiss with his kicking in the early stages of the game but Joe Shannon was always on top of his game and made life extremely unpleasant for the Tralee side in the vital midfield sector. Gleeson and James O Dowd tried their utmost in this sector for the losers but they were always struggling and the further the game went the more dominant did the Killorglin men become.

Perhaps the big turning point in the game came when Rangers’ mentors decided to switch Gerard Murphy from right wing forward to mark the hitherto rampant Higgins. The move worked wonders and Murphy proceeded to overshadow the Boherbue man and as the half wore on Murphy donned the mantle of team leader and master tactician for his side.

Team captain John Joe Sheehy put Mitchels a point up after three and a half minutes when he rose high in the parallelogram to punch a ‘45’ from Robert Dowd over the bar. The scores were level after nine minutes when Fleming placed corner-forward Paul Griffin for a point. Mitchels applied a tremendous amount of pressure on their opponents but they lacked real penetration up front and the scores were few and far between. They regained the lead when John Joe Sheehy pointed from all of 50 yards after grabbing the kick-out. But Rangers were back on par within seconds when Billy O Sullivan was deemed to have been fouled and Fleming obliged from the ensuing free.

The winners had a golden opportunity to bag a goal shortly afterwards when a probing ball from the boot of Gerard Murphy overran the backs and Joe Shannon was left with the seemingly easy task of finding the net but the courageous Rory Kilgallon advanced off his line to make a magnificent save at point blank range. Murphy and Fleming both had wides for the winners before, in the 23^rd minute, Joe Shannon won possession from Robert O Dowd and passed to Murphy who kicked a fine left-footed point from all of 30 yards to give the men from the Laune the lead for the first time in the game.

Late in the half Gleeson essayed a long-distance shot but it was wide of the mark. By now Rangers were imposing their authority on the exchanges and as the half moved into injury time they struck for the all-important score of the game. Wing-forward James O Shea sprayed a pass ahead of him to full-forward Billy O Sullivan. The Kerry minor wizard spirited his way round an opponent before coolly putting the ball out of the reach of goalkeeper Kilgallon, who had absolutely no chance of stopping it. That first of Rangers’ two goals was a fell blow to Mitchels. Coming as it did, at the call of halftime, it meant that the men in the blue and white shirts went in at halftime leading by four points instead of one (1-3 to 0-2). Mitchels were rocked to their heels and they were always struggling in a big way to get back into the game after the interval.

After the break they substituted John Hegarty for Robert O Dowd, with Hegarty moving into the attack. Granted Mitchels succeeded in cutting the deficit to just two points within four or five minutes of the restart. John Joe Sheehy took a free from Dennehy and pointed and then a Dennehy-John Roche-Dennehy move finished with corner-forward Noel Kelliher lofting over another well-taken point. But that was to be Mitchels swansong. They didn’t score again in the game for a full 20 minutes and in the interim their opponents ran riot.

They took complete control of things and, in that lapse of time. They added a goal and six points to their tally and it was little wonder that the spectators were flooding out of the grounds before Noel Kelliher rattled the net for Mitchels, from a pass by John Joe Sheehy in the 55^th minute, to give the scoreboard a little bit of respectability. In between times, Rangers had stretched their lead with points from Murphy, Fleming, McKenna, Fleming and Murphy before McKenna wrapped it up with a 45^th minute goal, following a lovely build-up involving Paul Griffin and Billy O Sullivan. I fact, that goal emanated from corner-back Kieran Moynihan’s failure to control the ball.

Nippy corner-forward Paul Griffin had a point for the winners before Kelliher found the net for Mitchels who failed to find a spark of inspiration in the second half. With Rangers leading by 2-9 to 1-4, Murphy tacked on two fine points. John Hegarty kicked a neat point. Then as the game ebbed to a close, McKenna and Sheehy exchanged points before Fleming added another minor to set the seal on a resounding victory.’

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons (capt.), James Sheeahn, Paudie Sheahan, Anthony Shannon, Mark O Connor, Tom Johnston, Shane O Sullivan, Joe Shannon, Timmy Fleming (0-4), Gerard Murphy (0-4), Pierce Prendiville, James O Shea, Paul Griffin (0-2), Billy O Sullivan (1-0), Pat McKenna (1-2). Subs: Danny Cahill (0-1) for J. O Shea; Patie Casey for P. Griffin: Pat O Brien for A. Shannon; Michael Moriarty, Brian O Shea, Liam Foley, Michael O Reilly, Timmy Corkery, William Joy, Liam Hayes, Owen Joy, Tommy Byrne, Gary McKenna.

John Mitchels: Rory Kilgallon, Kieran Moynihan, Frank O Donnell, Jim O Donnell, Ogie Sheehy, John Higgins, Robert O Dowd, James O Dowd, Anthony Gleeson, Kieran Kelliher, John Joe Sheehy (0-4), Donal McEvoy, Noel Kelliher (1-1), Martin Dennehy, John Roche. Subs: John O Dowd for M. Dennehy; John Hegarty (0-1) for R. Dowd; Colm   Bambury for K. Kelliher.

Ref: Dan Moynihan (Legion).

Umpires: Donie Fleming (Legion), Sean Costigan (Legion), John Somers (Currow), Jimmy O Shea (Glenflesk).

Watch the 1989 County Final now! Video (c) Padraig Herlihy

The Kerryman reported from the dressing room as follows: ‘The Laune Rangers dressing room was jumping as players laughed and cheered and congratulated each other. The long march from 1911 to 1989 had ended in victory and they were not afraid to show it. Fans came and went, thanking their heroes and getting programmes autographed. The trophy was handed from one to another, solid proof that they had indeed won.

The hubbub stopped dead when Mitchels’ captain John Joe Sheehy entered to congratulate the winners. Placing his hand on the cup, which he had hoped to hoist for Boherbue, he thanked them for great game and congratulated them on a historical win. Understandably, he seemed a little reluctant to take his hand off the cup his team had played for. When he had finished, the Rangers cheered him out of the room and returned to savouring victory.

In contrast to their opponents, the Rangers’ dressing room seemed more like an open house than a castle with the bridge hauled up and players and officials were only too happy to talk. 78 years of waiting gives anyone a lot to talk about. Trainer Noel O Mahony, his face wreathed in smiles, talked about his win. “We’re delighted and I’m over the moon,” he said, “It’s fantastic to win. It was teamwork that won it for us and that goal before halftime was very important. The switching of Gerard Murphy was vital and the backs were excellent up to the last five minutes.” “I would like to see Mitchels win a county championship. On the day they might have liked to have been better but their day will come, I’m sure of it,” he added.

In between signing autographs, star forward Billy O Sullivan also emphasised teamwork. “It was dedication and teamwork that won it for us. Coming from a small town we have great pride in our jersey. We wanted to win it for the royal blue. The Mitchels fancied themselves as they beat us in the league. After halftime we came out wanting to beat them by more than they had beaten us. They beat us by nine points and we beat them by ten,” he said. “They’re a good team, though, and they’ll be back,” he added.

Halfback Shane O Sullivan saying at first, “I’m speechless,” went on to say, “We had a bit of luck on the day and we trained hard for it.” Teammate and sub Tommy Byrne said that it was “team spirit which won it for us.” Midfielder Timmy Fleming felt determination was the key. “We were hungry to win and we got it right on the day,” he said. “Fair dues to Mitchels, they never gave up and they gave us a good sporting game.” Like Billy O Sullivan he wanted to avenge the nine points’ league defeat and felt they could do it after halftime. “It’s great to be a Laune Ranger today,” he added with a smile. Club Chairman Jerome Conway said that Laune Rangers had been waiting 78 years for this victory.

Visitors to the dressing room included Jack O Dwyer, a former Laune Rangers player who flew in especially from London, as did recent Rangers, Stephen Russell and John Sheehan. Other visitors included former players Paddy Joe Coffey (Dublin), Paddy Foley (London), Paddy Forde (London), Seamus Curran (Canada) and Mick Herbert (Dublin), former Limerick great, whose uncles, Paddy and Eddie Kennelly starred in 1911 with Laune Rangers. Father James Griffin, newly appointed Parish Priest in Waterford and former Laune Rangers player was also present and he joined the celebrations at a function in the Castle Heights Hotel, sponsored by Bernie O Riordan, after the game.

Kerry’s Eye reported on the return to Killorglin on Sunday night as follows:    ‘There was a wild celebration in Killorglin on Sunday, when the Laune Rangers’ team arrived home. As they predicted, they brought the Bishop Moynihan trophy across the Laune. Darkness had already fallen, when the team arrived. The coloured street lighting gave a blaze of colour to the scene and the Valentia Pipe Band provided music for the victory parade. Seated on the open truck was team captain Peter Lyons firmly holding the Bishop Moynihan Trophy. The Sam Maguire was never given as fine a welcome as the new County Championship trophy was given at Killorglin on Sunday night.

The parade went up Langford Street and out the Iveragh Road before the speechmaking began at the Puck Stand. Laune Rangers Club Chairman, Jerome Conway, addressing the huge crowd, said, “Tonight is the greatest night of our sporting life. On behalf of the club and the team I would like to thank you, our supporters, for travelling today and giving us tremendous support in Killarney. I can tell you that it lifted the team. I would like to thank you equally as much for turning out here tonight. You have shown tremendous appreciation for this historic event. Go raibh mile, mile maith agaibh. There so many people I would like to thank for bringing   this great event about. First of all I would like to thank the officers of the club. We have tremendous officers. They are very hard working and most conscientious. I would like to thank the people who worked with the juvenile teams down through the years and continue to do so. With the U-10’s we have Seamus Murphy. With the U-12’s we have Patsy Joy and Bertie Houlihan. With the U-14’s we have Pat Pigott and with the minors we have John Evans and Maurice Corkery. Now I come to the men of the moment. First of all we have our three selectors – Noel O Mahony, Patsy Joy and John Clifford. Exactly 100 years ago, Laune Rangers won the County Championship. The present players were heirs to a tremendous tradition and we wondered would they be able to live up to it. Today they gave us the answer. They are the champions.’

Peter Lyons, team captain, in his address said, “Ladies and Gentlemen, the Bishop Moynihan Cup is for the people of Killorglin. People did not know that many years ago when we were playing football on Saturday and Sunday mornings and, of course, Saturdays and Sundays were our lie-in days. Most of all I want to thank personally the parents of all the players we have at the moment. When these players were on the underage panel, you, the parents, kicked us out of bed at half ten on Saturday and Sunday mornings. If you had not done so, the Laune Rangers Club would not be able to reach the heights we are after reaching today. For that, parents and people of Killorglin, we thank you.”

There was tumultuous applause as the rest of the players were presented to the crowd by Jerome Conway and he ended by saying, “but the man who is most responsible for bringing about this victory, a man who has put hours and hours of thinking and working into this victory is Noel O Mahony.”

Noel O Mahony said “People of Killorglin, I want to thank you very much for the tremendous welcome here tonight and for your support today in Killarney and all the year and for the last number of years. Thank you very much indeed. I want to thank especially the best Laune Rangers team that ever took the field. We started with fifteen on the field and we had three more, making it eighteen. We had a panel of 27 players. We had such a strong panel that we could have brought on somebody for every one of the players today who would have been as good as the people out there and I want to thank everyone of them very much. Ní bheidh a leithéidí ann arís!”

 

‘Man-of-the-Match’ Function on Mon. 25^th Sept. in the Earl of Desmond Hotel.

Rangers travelled by bus to the Earl of Desmond Hotel, Tralee. After the function, they went to John Mitchels’ Clubhouse, where they got a fantastic reception, Mitchels’ players and supporters singing ‘Congratulations’ as the Rangers arrived – a nice touch. They returned home via The Munster Bar, Larkin’s Bar and Coffey’s Bar – a day to remember!

The Kingdom carried the following report: ‘Emotions ran high in Tralee yesterday afternoon as players and officials from both newly crowned County Senior Football Champions, Laune Rangers, and defeated finalists, John Mitchels, mingled at an AIB sponsored victory lunch, at which the man-of-the-match award was presented.

For two veteran Laune Rangers clubmen, Jimmy Coffey and Pat O Shea, it was a particularly emotional gathering and tears filled the eyes of both men when those in attendance gave them a prolonged standing ovation in appreciation of their efforts over the years. “These two men are responsible for our success,” Laune Rangers Chairman, Jerome Conway told the attendance. And, pointing towards the glittering Bishop Moynihan Cup perched on the top table, he exclaimed, “Jimmy and Pat – This is Your Life.” Pat and Jimmy hugged as those around them rose to their feet with an enthusiastic burst of applause.

There were many happy Killorglin men at the traditional post match function and Jerome Conway probably spoke for all involved with Rangers when he said, “I’m as proud as a peacock, prouder than I have ever been.”

Earlier, Rangers’ right half-forward, Gerard Murphy, who had turned in a terrific display on Sunday, was presented with the man-of-the-match award by AIB Regional Manager, Niall Kelly. “Gerard deserves the award – he put in a very stylish performance and pulled out all the stops to edge Rangers ahead when Mitchels were threatening to get back into the game at the start of the second half.” Mr. Kelly said. A delighted Murphy, speaking to reporters afterwards, said he would be working hard to win back his place on the Kerry senior team. He was on the first fifteen for the 1988 Munster Final but played no part in this year’s provincial decider.

John Mitchel’s trainer, Buddy O Grady, had a warm message of congratulations for Laune Rangers. “It was an outstanding performance and we don’t begrudge you the victory,” he said. “It was long overdue.” County Board Chairman, Sean Kelly, also addressed the gathering, describing Sunday’s result as a dream-come-true for Laune Rangers.’

The Kerryman reported from the Man-of-the-Match function as follows: “It takes great team spirit and preparation to win the Co. Championship and both Laune Rangers and John Mitchels, this year’s finalists, should be very proud of themselves,” said Sean Kelly, Chairman of the Co. Board. “For Laune Rangers it is a dream come true. They are an example for every club in the county.” He said that some years ago Laune Rangers adopted a youth policy with Jerome Conway at the helm and helped by Pat O Shea. He praised the quality of the personnel in charge of the Laune Rangers Club and also referred to the close liaison between the club and the schools in the catchment area. Mr. Kelly congratulated Laune Rangers on winning the county title and said that they would not rest until they won the All-Ireland club championship. He also congratulated the respective team trainers, the club chairmen, secretaries and selectors as well as the supporters who go to the matches and mix and go home happy. The Chairman congratulated Gerard Murphy on winning the Man-of-the-Match Award. “He is a fine fielder, a gentleman and above all, a two-footed player,” he said. “There is nothing I like better than a two-footed player.”

Niall Kelly, AIB Regional Manager, said the Laune Rangers club was steeped in history and was formed one hundred and one years ago. It was one hundred years since they won their first county championship. He said it was entirely fitting that their chairman was Jerome Conway, who had put so much time and energy into developing underage football. He congratulated team captain Peter Lyons, chairman Jerome Conway, trainer Noel O Mahony and the selectors John Clifford and Patsy Joy on a great club performance and said it augured well for the future. “It gives me great pleasure to congratulate Gerard Murphy on winning the man-of-the-match award,” said Mr. Kelly. “It is very well deserved. We were watching a very stylish and attacking half-forward.”

Jerome Conway, as chairman of the club, said a   lot of hard work and graft had gone into winning the championship. John Mitchels were heirs to a proud tradition and every one of them was a sportsman. Buddy O Grady, John Mitchels, congratulated Laune Rangers on their sterling and outstanding performance. Their success was long overdue. “The amount of work ye have done in the last few years has received its reward,” he said. He congratulated Gerard Murphy on winning the man-of-the-match award and described him as a sportsman supreme. “I am also delighted that Jerome Conway is chairman of the club on the year they won the championship,” he added. “He is an excellent chairman and an excellent sportsman.”

 

Tues. 26^th Sept. Laune Rangers attended a reception at the Manor Inn sponsored by the proprietors (Michael and Margaret O Shea) – a huge crowd and a great night.

Wed. 27^th Sept. Rangers attended a reception at The Bianconi Inn sponsored by the proprietors (Ray and Rick Sheehy) – a great night of laughter, song and dance. During the reception, some of the players attended, with the Bishop Moynihan Cup, a function for local Senior Citizens in the CYMS Hall, which had been organised by the local Vincent de Paul Society, Killorglin Youth Club and  the local ICA Committee.

Later on during the week Rangers were guests of Nick’s Restaurant (night for our sponsors) and of Steve Joe Cahillane, who sponsored a T-bone steak meal in Bunker’s.

The players and mentors, also, attended at other hostelries in the town during the following days.

The following gave sponsorship to the club for the 1989 Co. Final:

Killorglin Credit Union – tracksuits; O Donoghue’s Insurance – togs; Larkin’s Bar, Milltown – socks; Marian Lyons, Iveragh Rd. – ties; Klinge – £300; AIB – Jerseys and hold-alls; Liebig – £300; The Beaufort Bar (Patrick O Sullivan) – £50; The Red Fox – £20; Rhetta O Shea, Langford St. – £50; Bank of Ireland – £100; Killorglin Furniture (Michael Moriarty) – £50; Steve Joe Cahillane(Butchers) – T-bone steak meal for the players; Bianconi – meal for the players; The Manor Inn (Michael O Shea) – meal for the players; Castle Heights Hotel, Killarney – meal for the travelling party after the final; Bunkers Bar & Restaurant – soup, tea & sandwiches for the players after training; Dawn Dairies – milk for the players after training; John Purcell (fruit & veg): – socks for the minors; J. & M. Oils – jerseys; The Shamrock Bar (Noel Lucey) – set of jerseys for U-12’s; O Rahilly’s Enterprises (The Castle Bar) – kit for the U-14’s: Declan Falvey – jerseys for U-10’s; Frank Corkery(Bar) & Jim O Shea(Clifford’s Tavern) – sponsored U-12 trip to Dublin; Paddy Crowley – £100; Fexco; Eamonn Crowley; Liam Crowley; Joe Crowley; The Starlite Laundrette; Patrick O Grady (Londis); Anthony Shannon (Casual Land); Canon Matt Keane; Barry’s Wine Merchants, Cork; Lee Strand (Bill Kennedy).

 

Donal Pigott penned the following lines in honour of the occasion:

County Final Day

To the final in Killarney came the Rangers from the Laune,

To bring the Bishop Moynihan Cup back to Killorglin town.

Their supporters came from London and home from Canada too

In fact they came from everywhere to support the boys in blue.

 

They had a team of artists, true sportsmen one and all.

They never used foul tactics and always played the ball.

And when the final whistle sounded our hearts they jumped with glee,

For Laune Rangers they had triumphed over Mitchels from Tralee.

 

Peter Lyons was our captain and minder of the net,

And even when Mitchels took the lead, our Peter did not fret.

Our fullback line was tremendous, they had the will to win.

Paudie, James and Anthony played their part in this fine win.

 

Our halfback line never faultered, they never did give in.

Mark and Shane, first cousins, played on either wing.

In the centre was Tom Johnston, who bravely stopped the foe.

He’s known to all his teammates as Killorglin’s Willie Joe.

 

Our midfield men helped us to win, as they fielded high and low,

Joe Shannon, with his courage, Timmy Fleming, with his go,

They played the ball about the field with accuracy and ease

And brought the mighty Mitchels’ men tumbling to their knees.

 

Our half forwards were lethal, Gerard, Pierce and James.

They played with the same spirit that had won them many games.

Pierce and James helped Rangers to hit a purple patch

And Gerard kicked some mighty points to win man-of-the-match.

 

The final trio on the field were the youngster of the team,

Paul Griffin, Pat McKenna and Billy, just eighteen.

Pat and Billy scored the goals that sealed the Mitchels’ fate

And Paul made sure the Mitchels’ fans were heading for the gate.

 

Our subs they too all played their part in this historic win.

Patie, Pat and Danny played superbly when called in.

To Noel and Patsy and John ‘Block’, I’ve just one thing to say,

“Let’s do the same again next year on County Final Day.”

 

The following letters of congratulations were received in the days following the Co. Championship victory:

Dear Jerome,

Owing to recent illness, I have been unable to write to congratulate you and your club on your magnificent victory in the Senior Championship. You and many others involved in the club over a long number of years deserve this victory because ye have, at all times, catered very much for your juvenile activities and this was bound to be rewarded at the end of the day.

I would like very much if you conveyed my best wishes to the captain, players     and members of the club. Unfortunately, I was unable to be present at the match, as I was in hospital, but I hope to see the video of the game very soon.

Hope you and family are well.

Kind regards,

Yours sincerely,

Frank King.

 

Jerome,

Just a note to offer my congratulations. The fruits of your labour were realised in convincing fashion. No doubt it must have been your most satisfying day ever.

Sincerely yours,

Mickey O Sullivan.

(Kenmare)

 

Dear Mr. Conway,

Kerry County Council, at their meeting of the 16^th inst., resolved that the congratulations of the Council be conveyed to the Laune Rangers Football Team on their great achievement of winning the County Senior Football Championship.

Yours sincerely,

 

(for the County Secretary).

 

Hello Jerome,

Congrats on a great and historic win in the Co. Final – long overdue. I saw the final but did not get to meet you after the game. Upset over the failure to Larry’s team. Next year the club will give the county 2 captains, who knows, it’s a hard road ahead. Again congrats.

Paddy Fitzpatrick

(New York).

 

A Chara Dhil,

Congratulations on winning the Kerry Senior Football Championship last Sunday. It was a win you richly deserved – the culmination of many years of hard training and, above all, total dedication by all involved.

I have followed the fortunes of Laune Rangers for someyears now. I am glad to say that I learned to play football from members of Laune Rangers teams a good few years ago.

Go mairfidh sibh bhur mbua. Lean ar aghaidh leis an dea-obair. Le cúnamh Dé, fillfidh an corn arís go bruach na Leamhna i gCill Orglan an bhliain seo chugainn.

Rath Dé oraibh go léir.

Is mise le meas,

Pádraig Hyde.

 

Dear Officials of Laune Rangers Football Team & All Players on the team

It was with great delight that I saw you winning your first county championship since 1911 in Killarney on last Sunday week. I was delighted to be there but unfortunately I was unable to join in the celebrations afterwards. However, I hope to meet most of you when I will go to Puck Fair next year.

Heartiest congratulations again and I hope you do very well now in the Club Championship.

Yours sincerely,

Pat Ahern.

 

Munster Club Football Championship

 

Rd. 1 on Sun. Oct. 8^th in Killorglin at 3pm: Laune Rangers 1-7; Clonmel Commercials 0-10.

That was a real Houdini act! With six minutes left to play, Rangers were six points adrift. A goal by Tommy Byrne and points by Gerard Murphy (2) and Patie Casey did the trick. It was bad enough to have to start without the injured Joe Shannon, but, to make things even worse, Timmy Fleming got injured in the first minute of the game. It was Laune Rangers’ first adventure into that competition and their inexperience was obvious. The approach to the game was not good – the attention of the players was diverted by the taking of an official team photograph. They witnessed a little tantrum at that session also!!! When Paul Griffin and James O Shea were substituted, they went straight to the dressing room, rather than joining their colleagues on the sideline – Jerome Conway, Chairman, had to speak to both of them afterwards.

Eamon Horan reported on the game in The Kerryman, under the heading ‘The day of the great escape.’: A gem of a point from the accurate boot of substitute, Patie Casey, was the lifeline, which  saved labouring Laune Rangers in the Munster Club Football Championship game at Killorglin on Sunday and earned them a replay against Clonmel Commercials.

But, truth to tell, the Kerry Champions were extremely lucky to get a second bite at the cherry for they were led a merry dance by their tough, hard-hitting rivals for most of the game. Granted, Rangers were dealt a crippling blow within five minutes of the start, when they lost inter-county player Timmy Fleming. The star midfielder received a severe knock on the thigh in a jump for possession within two minutes of the start and, even though he resumed after treatment, he was only hobbling and his departure was imminent. The home side brought Tommy Byrne from full-forward to partner James O Shea at midfield, with Billy O Sullivan switching from left corner to full-forward.

However, Rangers were completely overrun in the centre of the field all through the opening 30 minutes and the position remained that way until well into the second half. Clonmel Commercials certainly showed themselves to be a strong, forceful, well-knit combination, who got stuck into this game from the word go and never gave their rivals an inch. Donal O Keeffe and Tony Gleeson called the shots at midfield for them and this allowed their forwards to see a plentiful supply of the ball.

Rangers’ backs were inclined to foul and this resulted in sure-footed Franny Kelly kicking three points from frees for the visitors in this half. Kelly had another from play and other points by centre half-back Mark O Connell, Donal O Keeffe and corner-forward Padraig Kavanagh, left the Tipperary men leading at halftime by 0-7 to 0-1. Laune Rangers’ solitary score in this half came from midfielder, James O Shea, in the 10^th minute following a fine movement involving Pat McKenna, Billy O Sullivan, G. Murphy, P. Casey and O Shea himself. That left Rangers trailing by 0-3 to 0-1, but they were run ragged by the opposition for the remainder of this half and it was a very dispirited home side, which trooped off to the dressing-room at halftime.

On the resumption, Rangers had Pierce Prendiville at midfield alongside O Shea, with Murphy on the 40 in Prendiville’s place, Paul Griffin at right wing forward and Casey on the opposite flank. Within a minute of the restart, the home supporters in the crowd of about 2,000 were in full voice, when Gerard Murphy fastened onto the ball and swung over a beautiful point from about 40 yards range.

But that fine score by Murphy only flattered to deceive for Commercials soon took up the running again and they proceeded to impose their mastery in practically every sector of the field. O Keeffe and Gleeson held sway at midfield despite the brave efforts of Prendiville to do something about it. Into the bargain, Commercials’ halfback line of Ben Keane, Mark O Connell and Peter Kilkenny was rock-solid and held the Rangers’ half-forward line in a vice-like grip. In addition, John Kerins and Reen Forrestal were tidying up anything that reached them in the fullback line, with the result that the path to goal was closed down on the home side.

Rangers, for their part, were limp and lethargic and were sorely lacking in leadership. The badly needed the power and resourcefulness of J. Shannon and T. Fleming at midfield, for this was the area where Clonmel’s dominance was most pronounced and D. O Keeffe being particularly effective all through for the winners.

James Sheehan fouled Criostoir McGrath and Kelly pointed the free to put Commercials six points ahead after only three minutes of the half. Kelly added another point from a free in the 36^th minute before Gerard Murphy had a stinging shot at goal adroitly saved by Commercials’ keeper, Philly Ryan. Ten minutes into the half, Mike Moriarty replaced Paul Griffin in the Killroglin attack. Rangers launched a flowing movement involving Mark O Connor, Prendiville, O Shea, Murphy and Moriarty, but when Murphy got the return pass, he booted the ball wide.

In the 46^th minute, McGrath was fouled and Kelly converted the ensuing free to leave Commercials leading by a resounding eight-point margin (0-10 to 0-2). The visitors were playing with dash and confidence at this stage and Rangers’ task looked a pretty hopeless one as the game entered the last quarter.

The Kerry kingpins mounted an offensive down the left flank and James Sheehan and Billy O Sullivan combined to put Tommy Byrne through for a well-taken point in the 47^th minute. Rangers made a couple of master moves in switching James Sheehan from corner-back to centre halfback, with Tom Johnston moving from there to midfield. Sheehan, even though he had suffered a ligament injury to an ankle, played masterly football in the last quarter. Time and again he came storming through the centre to carry the game to the opposition and his team mates were eventually to take heart from his promptings.

With 10 minutes remaining, Sheehan and Johnston linked up and B. O Sullivan rounded off the movement when he kicked a beautiful left-footed point on the turn. The game had ticked over into the 56^th minute when Rangers finally burst through for the goal they had being craving after for so long. And it stemmed from a bad defensive blunder in defence by the visitors. D. O Keeffe won possession about 40 yards out from his own goal, but he allowed himself to be dispossessed and, in a jiffy, Prendiville passed the ball to Byrne and the ginger-haired full-forward – he had reverted to that position after the interval – let fly with a smashing ground shot. The ball cannoned off the butt of the left upright and into the net, to the delight of the home fans.

Suddenly, Rangers were in with a shout, even though their opponents were still full of enterprise. Within seconds, Gerard Murphy won possession and lofted over a lovely left-footed point to narrow the gap to the minimum. Commercials were stunned by the sudden change in events and they tried desperately to stave off the Rangers, who were now pressing forward for all they were worth.

When Commercials pressed to the attack themselves, Pierce Prendiville twice repelled the advances. Then O Sullivan cut through for Rangers but the ball went out for a 45. The Kerry minor stalwart stepped up to take the kick himself with only seconds left in the game. His kick fell short and when the ball was cleared out of defence, it came straight to substitute Casey and the Tralee factory worker donned the mantle of hero when he planted a pressure kick straight between the posts for a dramatic last-gasp equaliser.

Rangers must be thanking their lucky stars for such a let-off, because, truth to tell, they were outplayed and outgeneralled by their rivals for most of this tough uncompromising game. One thing is for sure, Rangers will have to improve vastly on this lacklustre performance if they are to stand any chance in the replay in Clonmel.’

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, James Sheehan, Paudie Sheahan, Anthony Shannon, Mark O Connor, Tom Johnston, Shane O Sullivan, Timmy Fleming, James O Shea (0-1), Gerard Murphy (0-2), Pierce Prendiville, Paul Griffin, Pat McKenna (0-1), Tommy Byrne (1-1), Billy O Sullivan (0-1). Subs: Patie Casey (0-1) for T. Fleming (inj.); Ml. Moriarty for P. Griffin; Ml. O Reilly for J. O Shea; Brian O Shea, Liam Foley.

Clonmel Commercials: Philly Ryan, John Kerins, Reen Forrestal, Sean O Loughlin, Ben Keane, Mark O Connell (0-1), Peter Kilkenny, Donal O Keeffe (0-1), Tony Gleeson, Fran Kelly (0-7, six from frees), Criostoir McGrath, Dermot O Shea, Padraig Kavanagh (0-1), Jim Coyne, Anthony Wall. Sub: Conor English for J. Coyne.

Ref: Pat Lane (Limerick).

 

During the week Laune Rangers had a video session in Scoil Mhuire, during which they looked at the drawn game. They had done something similar after the Co. Semi-Final. At that session, Noel O Mahony did not comment, even though Jerome Conway, Chairman, had asked him to use the video to explain their faults to the players. Noel O Mahony preferred to let players see for themselves. At the session after the Commercials’ game, the Chairman undertook to point out the faults and postitives to the players himself.

Rd. 1 replay on Sun. 15^th Oct. at 3pm in Clonmel: Clonmel Commercials 0-5; Laune Rangers 2-11.

Laune Rangers had learned quite a lot from the drawn game and travelled in a much more determined frame of mind. A measure of the improvement in the performance was that all their scores in the game came from play. They travelled by coach. There was also a coach-load of supporters. Many, many more travelled by cars. There were more Laune Rangers’ supporters than Clonmel supporters at the game. They ate in the Shamrock Lounge, Cahir and they were back in Killorglin at 10.30pm.

John Barry reported in The Kerryman, under the heading ‘Laune Rangers turn on the style’ as follows: ‘This Munster Culb S.F. Championship replay at Clonmel on Sunday last was nothing like as one-sided as the final score might suggest, but superior class was on the side of Laune Rangers and this told in the end – emphatically so.

Rangers opened very smartly against a fairly lively breeze and were ahead 0-3 to 0-1 after ten minutes. This was in sharp contrast to the form they had shown in the early stages of the drawn match in Killorglin the previous Sunday and clearly suggested that a lesson had been learned.

But Clonmel Commercials then began to win a lot more possession and had drawn level by the 20^th minute (0-3 each). Tremendous pressure continued to be applied by Commercials and a single point, by midfielder Donal O Keeffe, was very poor reward for an awful lot of effort before halftime. From frees and play, Commercials missed scores (the free-taking generally was very bad in the first half) and then, 90 seconds into injury time, the Tipperary champions were dealt a crushing blow, when Gerard Murphy scored a magnificent goal for Rangers.

That goal highlighted the glaring differences between the two teams on the day and actually, Rangers could have shoved the ball in the Clonmel net again in the fourth minute of injury time, because they were awarded a penalty. Wing-back, Mark O Connor, took the kick and struck it well, but the Clonmel goalkeeper, Philly Ryan, made a first-class save. Teams can draw a lot of inspiration from saves like that which Ryan made and, as it turned out, Commercials played some very fine football in the opening ten minutes of the second half, with defenders Mark O Connell and Ger Deeley (switched from attack) driving forward in dynamic fashion.

Rangers’ two-point interval lead (1-3 to 0-4) should undoubtedly have been wiped out and it would have been no injustice if Commercials had taken the lead, by dent of the effort alone. But Commercials were nothing like as crafty around the goal area as Rangers and this, allied to some magnificent defensive play on the part of the Killorglin side, meant that parity was never gained. In fact, Commercials had only one point to show for their dominance in the early stages of the second half and they were never to score again. Centre-forward Criostoir McGrath, one of three Tipperary county men in the squad, burst through in dashing style and with a goal definitely beckoning, he blasted the ball just over the bar.

At this stage, nobody could have imagined the result, which would see Rangers triumph by twelve points, but the morale of Commercials was affected by the inability of their forwards to score and when Rangers started moving again, they simply tore the Clonmel side apart. Chief architect of the destruction was wing-forward, Gerard Murphy, who kicked four superb points. All Murphy needed was a look at the posts and the ball was popped over. It was a most impressive display of shooting by him and it was hard to blame Commercials for getting more and more dispirited as the game wore on.

There were times through that second half, not just in the opening ten minutes, when the Laune Rangers goal enjoyed a charmed life, but it’s more than just bad luck that stops goals going in. The man who set Rangers on their winning way was Pat McKenna, who flicked over a great point. It was badly needed at the time (42^nd minute) and Gerard Murphy was to follow up with two quick points, to leave Rangers ahead by 1-6 to 0-5 at the three-quarter stage. Even with the lively breeze, it still wasn’t a game which Rangers could say they had won and they were glad to see Gerard Murphy widen the gap with a point, set Tommy Byrne up for another point and then put over another one himself.

The Clonmel challenge had now been safely seen off and it was good to see two Killorglin substitutes, Paul Griffin and Michael O Reilly, getting in on the scoring act after being on the field for only a very short time. Griffin kicked two lovely points under pressure, one with the left leg and the other with the right and O Reilly palmed home a goal in the 61^st minute, to really complete Commercials day of misery.

Strangely, supporters of Clonmel were very subdued on the day, as if they didn’t expect a winning performance from their team. Supporters of Laune Rangers, on the other hand, were much more vocal and encouragement had to be drawn from this. Understandably, Killorglin officials were delighted to have won so handsomely in enemy territory, especially after coming so close to defeat in the drawn game. Rangers were not prepared to allow any early initiative to Commercials this time, as was obvious from their enthusiastic opening and the overall contribution of midfielder, Timmy Fleming, who played only a few minutes of the drawn game, was very significant.

It was very important too, that the Rangers defence generally should have come up trumps on the day. The fullback line was subjected to quite a deal of pressure during Commercials’ periods of dominance and though there were a few hairy moments, one could have nothing but praise for the men who fronted Peter Lyons. James Sheehan, in the left corner, was particularly impressive, producing a display that must surely rank with the best he has given in the blue and white. Out in the halfback line, Shane O Sullivan had a truly marvellous first half and generally acquitted himself with a lot of distinction.

The Laune Rangers’ attack wasn’t exactly firing on all cylinders on the day, but it still much more inventive than Commercials and when Gerard Murphy began to find his scoring touch, the Clonmel defence simply had no answer. Billy O Sullivan was deadly dangerous every time he went near the ball. In fairness to the Clonmel mentors, they quickly saw the threat, which was being posed by O Sullivan and switched a nifty corner-back in Sean O Loughlin on him, but O Sullivan continued to shape up as a class player with a very alert footballing brain.

Commercials had two Tipperary county men in their attack, Franny Kelly and Criostoir McGrath, but they didn’t contribute as much as they should have done on the scoresheet despite winning some good possession. McGrath was very strong under the dropping ball and, for a big man, was able to move fairly lively, but I felt that Commercials should have moved him into full-forward as the second half progressed.

The game was the centrepiece of a triple bill at Clonmel and sparkling and all as was the football played by Laune Rangers in the early stages, the fare in the preceding hurling match (South Tipperary Junior Final) still appeared to be much livelier. Hurling does that.

Laune Rangers now meet the Cork Champions in the Munster semi-final and they showed in this game, when they were motoring, that they can undoubtedly be a match for the best.’

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Danny Cahill, Paudie Sheahan, James Sheehan, Mark O Connor, Tom Johnston, Shane O Sullivan, Timmy Fleming, Pierce Prendiville, Gerard Murphy (1-5), Pat McKenna (0-1), James O Shea, Patie Casey, Tommy Byrne (0-1), Billy O Sullivan (0-2). Subs: Paul Griffin (0-2) for T. Byrne; Timmy Corkery for M. O Connor; Michael O Reilly (1-0) for B. O Sullivan; Anthony Shannon, Brian O Shea, Liam Foley, William Joy, Michael Moriarty.

Missing: Joe Shannon (inj.), Owen Joy (inj.), Pat O Brien (holidays).

Clonmel Commercials: Philly Ryan, John Kerins, Reen Forrestal, Sean O Loughlin, Ben Keane, Mark O Connell, Peter Kilkenny, Donal O Keeffe (0-1), Tony Gleeson, Frannie Kelly (0-2 frees), Criostoir McGrath (0-2), Dermot O Shea, Padraig Kavanagh, Ger Deeley, Anthony Wall. Subs: Jim Coyne for Kavanagh; Willie Peters for Kerins.

Ref: Pat Lane (Limerick).

 

Semi-Final on Sun. 12^th Nov. in Fitzgerald Stadium, Killarney: Castlehaven 1-11; Laune Rangers 0-8.

Again Laune Rangers, as a club, showed its inexperience at that level. The game was scheduled for J.P.O Sullivan Park but it was very heavy, due to the very bad weather. The club’s principal officers consulted with the players and the forwards voted for Killarney, while the backs were anxious to play at home. The club decided that it should play in Killarney in the belief that it would suit our forwards. That was a bad mistake as the forwards did not come up trumps on the day, the backs played quite well but the Killarney venue suited Larry Tompkins and the Cork county men down to the ground. From the point of view of revenue to the business people of the town, also, who had been very good to the club, the game should have been played in Killorglin.

Eamon Horan, in The Kerryman, reported as follows: ‘Cork champions Castlehaven put a halt to Laune Rangers’ gallop in no uncertain fashion when they handed the Kerry kingpins a six-points beating in the semi-final of the Munster Club Football Championship at Fitzgerald Stadium, Killarney, on Sunday.

And at the end of the day there could be no denying that Castlehaven was by far the better, more organised team. As feared, Cork star Larry Tompkins was again the match-winner for the Cork side. The former Kildare stalwart played a true captain’s part at midfield for Castlehaven. He fielded and fetched with all his customary style and panache and he finished up as his side’s top scorer with five points – three of these coming from frees.

The game had been switched from Killorglin because the latter pitch was not deemed fit to play following the heavy rain of last week. The Killarney grounds were in excellent shape and played extremely well for a game watched by an official attendance of 3,954.

In a comparatively low-scoring game, both sets of backs were in fine form and the winners were particularly well served by another inter-county star, Niall Cahillane, who lined out at fullback and did a fine job in curbing the ever-dangerous Billy O Sullivan. Cahillane retired midway through the second half with a recurring ankle injury. But by then he had made an enormous contribution to ultimate victory.

Another vital factor in Castlehaven’s victory was the fine performance turned in by left half-forward Francie Collins. He was always a thorn in the side of the Killorglin men and over the hour he notched four fine points, one or two of these being spectacular pieces of marksmanship.

On previous occasions, teamwork has often been the match-winner for Rangers. But on this occasion it was their Cork opponents who excelled in this particular facet of the game. The Castlehaven men chased and fought for every ball with tremendous urgency and it was clear from an early stage that they meant business. Tompkins led by example at midfield and, with Francie Collins bang in form up front, the visitors always had that vital edge on their rivals.

In fairness to Timmy Fleming, he tried like a real trooper at midfield for Rangers and probably did more than anyone else to try and rally his side in the second half when the combat was at its fiercest. It was a tough hard-hitting game and referee Ray Moloney had a busy afternoon, booking six players in all. Early on in the game he booked Castlehaven’s Patsy Cahillane and M.C. O Mahony and midway through the half he entered the name of Rangers’ Paul Griffin in his book. Tempers flared on a few occasions and it was certainly no game for the feint-hearted.

Castlehaven came with a big following and they cheered their heroes to the echo especially in the second half, when Rangers tried to overhaul their opponents. Somehow, Rangers never hit top gear but this in itself is a tribute to the close marking of their rivals who never allowed the Kerry champions to dictate matters.

Although the losers tried valiantly to get into serious contention in the second half, their forwards were always finding it extremely difficult to penetrate the Castlehaven defence, which effectively put up the shutters on their opponents in the second half. In fact just how successful was the winners’ defence could be gleaned from the fact that only two of the Killorglin side’s forwards figured on the scoresheet – Billy O Sullivan, who kicked two marvellous second half points, and substitute Anthony Shannon. The rest of their scores all came from frees by Fleming – the Kerry player accounted for no fewer than five of his side’s scores in all.

As usual, Rangers were depending very much on inter-county player Gerard Murphy to show the way up front. But the wing-forward could never shake off the shackles of Denis Cleary, with the result that much of the edge of the losers’ attack was blunted. After all, just three points from play is scarcely good enough to win a team a place in the Munster Club final.

Castlehaven led by 0-5 to 0-3 at halftime and the second half was just three minutes old, when the winners struck for the only goal of the game. And it was their inter-county star John Cleary who delivered the goods once again. Castlehaven were awarded a penalty when Collins was deemed to have been fouled in the parallelogram even though some of the Laune Rangers’ players were critical of the referees’ decision afterwards. Cleary took the spot kick and his stinging drive rebounded off the butt of the left upright and the corner-forward himself fastened on to the rebound to hammer the ball to the net, giving goalkeeper Peter Lyons no chance in the process with a blasting drive. The goal proved to be the clincher for, even though Rangers did put in a strong rally midway through the half, they could never recover from the hammer blow.

Collins opened the scoring with a Castlehaven point in the first minute and Tompkins pointed a free for them before Collins had another superb point from play in the 13^th minute to put the Cork title-holders three points up. Fleming finally got his side moving, when he pointed a free after 16 minutes and a minute later he kicked another superb point from a free 50 metres out.

In the 19^th minute Tompkins steered a great ball over the bar after a spectacular solo effort. Fleming pulled one back for Rangers three minutes later but Castlehaven had the last say in this half when Tompkins converted another free just on halftime to leave the Cork side leading by just two points at the break.

Cleary’s great goal, early in the second half, was a wonderful fillip to the winners and thereafter their opponents were always struggling to get back into the game. Tompkins had one of his rare misses when he was wide from a free out on the left wing. Billy O Sullivan sprang to life in the 37^th minute with a well-taken point but the winners replied in style with additional points from Collins and John Cleary – the latter’s score resulting from a bad blunder by corner-back Mark O Connor.

Then Rangers rallied and in a spell of sustained pressure, they had points from Billy O Sullivan – a beautiful shot on the run – and Fleming (2 frees) in the 42^nd, 43^rd and 46^th minutes. That left the Kerrymen trailing by just three points (1-7 to 0-7) but they were unable to get any closer despite some good work by substitutes Joe and Anthony Shannon, when they came on late in the game.

Gerard Murphy shot for a goal after a good break but he was foiled by goalkeeper, John Maguire. Castlehaven added points from Collins (47 mins.), Tompkins (48mins. play and 52mins. from a free) and Martin O Mahony (55mins.) before Anthony Shannon closed the scoring with a point for Rangers.

But at the end of the day, there could be no denying Castlehaven’s superiority and they are certainly going to take an awful lot of stopping in the final.’

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Mark O Connor, Paudie Sheahan, James Sheehan, Patie Casey, Tom Johnston, Shane O Sullivan, Timmy Fleming (0-5 frees), Pierce Prendiville, Gerard Murphy, Tommy Byrne, James O Shea, Paul Griffin, Billy O Sullivan (0-2), Pat McKenna. Subs: Joe Shannon, Anthony Shannon (0-1), Danny Cahill (all played).

Castlehaven: John Maguire, Michael Maguire, Mick Burns, Patsy Cahillane, Michael O Brien, Niall Cahillane, Denis Cleary, David O Regan, Larry Tompkins{(capt.) 0-5, 3 frees, Jim Nolan, M.C.O Mahony (0-1), Francie Collins (0-4), Martin Mahony, Tim Joe O Regan, John Cleary (1-1). Subs: Edmond Cleary and Francie Cahillane (both played).

Ref: Ray Moloney (Limerick).

 

Co. Club Football Championship

New playing rules were tried out in that competition:

1. A player who is fouled shall have the option of taking the free (not a penalty) from his hands or the ground or, alternatively, leaving it to another player to take from the ground.
2. Teeing up the ball i.e. kicking a divit, shall be penalised with a throw-in ball.
3. Sideline kick shall be taken from the hand.
4. There must be a definite striking action in the hand-pass.

 

Semi-Final at Connolly Park on Mon. 30^th Oct. at 3pm: Austin Stacks 1-21; Laune Rangers 1-13

Due to Laune Rangers’ continued participation in so many competitions during the year and in an effort to progress this competition, they had been given a bye to the semi-finals by the G.A.C. The game had been fixed for Milltown but Rangers agreed to travel to Connolly Park. They had little interest in this competition, having won the Co. Championship and thus ensured their participation in the Munster Club Championship as the Kerry representatives, and rested many of their senior players. The game was played under the experimental rules. Billy O Shea scored 1-1 and Ml. O Reilly scored 0-6. Stacks gave Rangers a great reception afterwards – cocktail sausages, sandwiches and the Bishop Moynihan Cup was filled. Stacks gave Rangers a memento of the occasion, also.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, John O Donnell, Danny Cahill, Anthony Shannon, Mark O Sullivan, Paudie Sheahan, Patie Casey, James O Shea, Pierce Prendiville, Pat McKenna, Michael O Reilly, Billy O Shea, Liam Foley, Tommy Byrne, Billy O Sullivan. Sub: Shane O Sullivan for B. O Shea.

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

 

Co. Football League Div. 1:

 

Rd.3 at Waterville on Sat. 15^th April at 7pm: Waterville 0-7; Laune Rangers 2-15.

In the first half Laune Rangers’ forwards were very impressive, when playing with the aid of the wind. They ran and combined very well. Some very good points were scored and Timmy Fleming dominated mid-field, scoring great points from frees and bursting through to score a great goal. Half-time score: 1-12 to 0-3.

In the second half, Rangers lost their way with bad passing and bunching. Timmy Fleming continued to star at mid-field, culminating in a great goal from a 13m free, which bulged the net. The backs, while being firm, stuttered at times. James Sheehan, Danny Cahill and Pat O Brien played well. Ml. O Reilly was settling in at fullback. Peter Lyons brought off a great save early in the second half.

Tommy Conroy, Kerry’s Eye, reported on the game as follows: ‘Waterville is finding life tough in the First Division. On Saturday night last at Waterville sportsfield, they suffered a heavy defeat, going under by fourteen points to Laune Rangers. This is not the kind of start to help morale for a Waterville team, badly hampered by emigration, injuries and the unavailability of some better known players. Waterville, on Sat. last, was biting cold, damp and very gusty.

Laune Rangers, sporting county player Timmy Fleming, along with all the familiar names, who rose from juvenile stars to senior hopefuls in the club’s quest for major honours, if not in 1989, but in the near future. The boys from the Laune wrapped up the points in the first half, with the strong gale at their backs. They raced into an interval lead of 1-12 to 0-3, with some wonderful point scoring, accumulated from splendid teamwork, involving sometimes nine or ten players. They moved the ball around with precision passing and very little fuss. Waterville, on the other hand, had to play second fiddle to a confident Rangers team. Their attacks were few, with centre-half forward, Carl O Dwyer, scorer of all seven points in the game, five from frees, including a ‘45’. Three of these came in the first half and two in the last minute.

Laune Rangers, enjoying their strike rate, had their goal by top marksman, Timmy Fleming, after ten minutes. A low pile driver, after one of those slick defence-splitting moves had put him through. Fleming emerged with a grand total of 2-6 from play and frees.

Waterville, having wind assistance in the second half, could never make much headway in attack. They tried hard but their cause was a hopeless one. Rangers’ second half play became complacent, as they tried to walk the ball into the Waterville net. The Southerners’ goalkeeper, John O Dwyer, saved his side from a much heavier defeat with some super saves. Rangers tried out young subs as the match progressed to an easy away victory.

Waterville, fair play to them, knew they had no earthly chance but, like the true sportsmen that they are, they played the ball at all times, never resorting to spoiling tactics. Laune Rangers, the team with all the ideas, romped home 2-15 to 0-7, but they know that they won’t get any easier than this for the remainder of the season. They just don’t know how good they are on this outing, but for this writer, they still have room for improvement and need some strength in vital positions. Timmy Fleming was their star player with 2-6, followed by Paul Griffin on 0-4. Other players to impress were Danny Cahill, who made one spectacular catch in his own goalmouth, James Sheehan, James O Shea, Pat McKenna and Michael Moriarty’.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Danny Cahill, Ml. O Reilly, James Sheehan, Pat O Brien, Tom Johnston, James O Shea, Timmy Fleming (2-5), Pierce Prendiville (0-1) capt., Joe Shannon (0-1), Pat McKenna (0-3), Patie Casey, Gerard Murphy (0-1), Michael Moriarty, Paul Griffin (0-4). Subs: Tommy Byrne for P. O Brien; William Joy for J. Sheehan; Mark O Connor, Liam Foley, Paudie Sheahan. Shane O Sullivan was sick.

Waterville: John O Dwyer, John O Sullivan, Paddy O Dwyer, James Keating, Tim Dennehy, John O Dwyer, Pat Clifford, Robbie O Dwyer, Darby Clifford, Steve Dennehy, Carl O Dwyer (0-7, 5 frees), Mike O Dwyer, Denis Sheehan, Tommy Walsh, Mike O Sullivan.

Referee: Michael O Sullivan (Ballymac).

 

Rd.4 at Killorglin on Sat. 29^th April at 7.30pm: Laune Rangers 1-9; Kenmare 0-5.

Laune Rangers played very well in the first half against the breeze, scoring 1-5 to 0-2. They lost their way, however, in the first twenty minutes of the second half and then finished strongly. They seemed to have a problem in the centre of their defence. They struggled somewhat at midfield (Timmy Fleming was training very hard with the Kerry team at the time).

‘An Torc’ carried the following report: ‘Laune Rangers defeated Kenmare 1-9 to 0-5 at Killorglin on Saturday. Halftime score 1-5 to 0-2. The evening turned bitterly cold after the fine afternoon and rain also fell intermittently.

James Beasley led off for Kenmare in the 2^nd minute with a point before Pierce Prendiville, Joe Shannon and Michael Moriarty combined for a Laune Rangers point in the 5^th minute. Alan O Connor’s excellent play was noted as early as this in the game. J. Beasley was wide having linked up with J. Moriarty. Alan O Connor fielded well in the 8^th minute and kicked a fine point on the turn. Dan Keane cleared a Laune Rangers’ attack but Joe Shannon returned Laune Rangers to the attack and Gerard Murphy had a nice point with his left leg in the 9^th minute.

A good combined Laune Rangers move between Michael Moriarty, Pierce Prendiville and Paul Griffin led to a point by Griffin in the 11^th minute. The same player repeated the dose a minute after and then G. Murphy gave to P. Prendiville but Tim O Sullivan, in the Kenmare goal, brought off a great save.

Laune Rangers were put under pressure but James Sheehan cleared to James O Shea, whose kick, however, went over the sideline. Tim Fleming had a great Laune Rangers point in the 14^th minute. M. Moriarty was coming out of the full-forward position, roaming effectively, and Tim Fleming put a good, long free into him and he passed to P. Casey and the latter flashed the ball to the Kenmare net. James Sheehan showed up well again for Laune Rangers, as did Dan Keane and Liam Lynch for Kenmare.

In the second half, Danny Cahill saved twice for Laune Rangers when Kenmare threatened. Alan O Connor was doing well but lacked support. Laune Rangers put on the pressure but John Morgan O Sullivan cleared. Bosco McGearailt cleared the next Rangers attack and sent to John Moriarty, who had a Kenmare point in the 39^th minute. James Sheehan was noticed several times repulsing Kenmare attacks. Kenmare were now getting on top at midfield. B. McCarthy, fielding well, gave to A. O Connor but he was fouled. However, he wided the free and B. McCarthy was wide also after a solo run. They were playing well but getting no results.

The result was copper-fastened when T. Fleming had a Laune Rangers point against the run of play in the 43^rd minute. J. Morgan O Sullivan defended well for Kenmare at right back. Laune Rangers introduced subs Mark O Connor and Paud Sheahan. J. Beasley wided but Alan O Connor had a Kenmare point in the 50^th minute, when Beasley was fouled.

James O Shea cleared to G. Murphy for a Laune Rangers point, but Beasley gained possession for Kenmare and he set up Alan O Connor for a point.  Kenmare were putting up a brave effort but the earlier goal was the difference. The Rangers finishing was, also, more positive and Paul Griffin finished off the game in the 56^th and 58 minutes with two smart points. Kenmare will be no pushover at home for any opposition and I shall watch their progress with interest.’

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons (Capt), Danny Cahill, Ml. O Reilly, James Sheehan, Pat O Brien, James O Shea, Shane O Sullivan, Tom Johnston, Timmy Fleming (0-2), Joe Shannon, Pierce Prendiville, Patie Casey (1-0), Gerard Murphy (0-2), Michael Moriarty (0-1), Paul Griffin (0-4). Subs: Mark O Connor for P. O Brien: Paudie Sheahan for M. O Reilly.

Kenmare: Tim O Sullivan, John Morgan O Sullivan, Dan Keane, B.Hourihan, Bosco Mc Gearailt, A. O Sullivan, Liam Lynch, E. O Sullivan, B. McCarthy, John Moriarty, Alan O Connor (0-3), M. Moriarty, P. O Connor (0-1), James Beasley (0-1), D. Cronin.

Ref.: Michael O Sullivan (Ballymac).

 

Rd. 5 at Castleisland on Sun. 14^th May:  Desmonds 0-7; Laune Rangers 0-11.

Laune Rangers struggled at times and there seemed to be no pattern to their play. Desmonds were depleted and yet Rangers struggled to dominate them. Having played against a blustery wind in the first half, they were 0-6 to 0-2 in arrears at halftime. Danny Cahill and James Sheehan were very good throughout and Ml. O Reilly had a very good second half. The halfbacks were uncertain and cleared poorly. Mid-field was adequate. Ml. Moriarty played very well and Gerard Murphy improved when he was moved to the half-forward line. Paul Griffin worked very hard but continued to over hold the ball. Pat McKenna picked up many breaks but lacked penetration.

Tommy Conroy, Kerry’s Eye, reported on the game as follows: ‘Laune Rangers remain unbeaten after three games in the Lee Strand County Football League when, at Castleisland on Sunday last, they came with a storming finish to gain two valuable points against a very understrength Desmonds’ team. This was a hard earned win for the Rangers.

Rangers, on resumption, with a gale at their backs, found it difficult to break down the tenacious Desmonds’ defence. The winners did not hit the front until seven minutes from full-time when Gerard Murphy pointed. Once in the lead, they gained in confidence to end in a flourish with four further points, two each from Timmy Fleming and Joe Shannon. Desmonds had to wait until the closing minute for their lone second-half score, a point by fullback Mike John Kearney, who had switched to attack minutes earlier.

The good-sized crowd had very little to cheer about. The breeze in the open Castleisland pitch ruined the game as a spectacle. Rangers won because they had forwards more sure in the know-how of scoring. Desmonds’ defence, however, played them very well, and, if the Castleisland attack had made better use of first-half chances, Rangers’ task would have been beyond them in the second period.

Desmonds never posed a serious threat, especially in the full-forward line, after the interval, where Michael ‘Dicey’ O Reilly and James Sheehan easily broke up everything that came their way. Desmonds had four points on the scoreboard after eight minutes, M. Downey, T. Roche, D. O Sullivan, W. O Connor the scorers from play. Timmy Fleming opened the Rangers account from a free in the 12^th minute. Veteran, D. O Connor, replied for Desmonds while Paul Griffin and Willie Dom (free) closed the first-half scoring as Desmonds led 0-6 to 0-2.

Laune Rangers began the second half in lively fashion. Full-forward, M. Moriarty, collected beautifully a Pat O Brien free before turning sharply and splitting the uprights. However, they had to wait until the 16^th minute before they scored again as Desmonds closely shadowed the Rangers’ attack. Charlie Nelligan saved a point-blank rasper at the left upright from Pat McKenna for a super save and it was Moriarty again who got point number two after James Sheehan broke up a Desmonds’ attack. Timmy Fleming was moving into his best form at midfield. His free taking was not so reliable. The breeze was tricky. Tommy Roche reverted back to the centre from the No. 14 shirt for Desmonds. Rangers kept plugging away and they were rewarded with points from Fleming (free) and Moriarty equalised after picking up a poor clearance by C. Nelligan.

At this stage Rangers moved around the forwards. Murphy and Griffin swapped wings. They eventually found their true form with five points without reply. By this time, Desmonds were well and truly beaten. A number of substitutions failed to penetrate the Rangers’ defence and they had to be satisfied with their only second-half point from Kearney. Laune Rangers will not be happy with their overall display. They know they must improve. They have one consolation in victory – they have finally broken the Desmonds’ hoodoo. Desmonds are going through a testing period with injury and emigration making the team unsettled. When Championship comes round, things should be much healthier.

Laune Rangers’ best were Michael O Reilly, James Sheehan, Danny Cahill and Shane O Sullivan in defence; goalkeeper, Peter Lyons, kept another clean sheet – the only ‘keeper in Div. One who had yet to be beaten once; T. Fleming and P. Prendiville got on top at mid-field in the second half; M. Moriarty, P. Griffin and J. Shannon in attack.’

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons (Capt.), Danny Cahill, Ml. O Reilly, James Sheehan, Shane O Sullivan, James O Shea, Pat O Brien, Pierce Prendiville, Timmy Fleming (0-4 frees), Joe Shannon (0-2), Pat McKenna, Patie Casey, Gerard Murphy (0-1), Michael Moriarty (0-3), Paul Griffin (0-1). Subs: Paudie Sheahan, Mark O Connor, Tommy Byrne.

Desmonds: Charlie Nelligan, Kevin McMahon, Michael John Kearney (0-1), Conor Geaney, P.J. Teahan, Dan Lucey, Denis Lyons, Donie Buckley, Denis Browne, Martin Downey (0-1), Willie Dom O Connor (0-2, 0-1free), John Lordan, Danny O Sullivan (0-1), Tommy Roche (0-1), Donal Duke O Connor (0-1 free). Subs: Brendan Lyne for Lordan (inj); Mike Sweeney for Geaney; Billy Lyons for O Sullivan – all in the second half.

Ref.: Maurice O Sullivan (Ballyheigue) – very good.

 

Rd. 6 in Killorglin on Sat. 27^th May: Laune Rangers 1-13; K. O Rahillys 1-5.

This was a very good performance. Joe Shannon and James O Shea dominated mid-field. Danny Cahill played well despite being caught for the goal. Michael O Reilly played well and James Sheehan was going from good to great. Pat O Brien made mistakes of the very elementary nature. Paudie Sheahan needed a few more games. Shane O Sullivan played well. Gerard Murphy had a good first half but faded. Pierce Prendiville did well. Timmy Fleming had got very strong and played well. All the full-forward line played well.

Torc reported for Kerry’s Eye as follows: ‘Laune Rangers won the Lee Strand Div. One Co. League game at Killorglin on Saturday evening by 1-13 to 1-5. They deservedly led at half time by 1-8 to 1-3 but fortune did not favour O Rahilly’s who were foiled by the cross-bar twice for certain goals. In the 45^th minute, Tom Hoare’s shot came off the timber with the score at the time 1-9 to 1-5. In the 54^th minute, Con O Connor’s shot flashed downwards but not over the line with the score at 1-12 to 1-5.

Kerins O Rahilly’s blew hot and cold and played in three different ways. Firstly, they stayed with Laune Rangers for 15 minutes, lost touch up to half-time and came again after half-time but when the cross-bar denied them, Laune Rangers went on to win fairly decisively. Laune Rangers are a good all-round team, being adequately supplied in all positions. It remains to be seen whether they have the flair to progress in the Co. Championship.

Timmy Fleming has improved immensely this year and had a big influence on this game both in general play and from dead ball situations. Ger Murphy had a good game at right half forward. Laune Rangers, at the back, were best served by J. Sheehan, Pat O Brien and Paudie Sheahan. Morgan Nix at mid-field for O Rahilly’s strove manfully and was there to the very end. Pierce Hoare, at full-forward, gained a lot of possession, being prominent throughout overhead. Maurice O Carroll and Con O Connor were others to impress. On the night, one felt that L. Rangers were always going to win. However, if K. O Rahilly’s get their act together, they could match the best. They must play as a team and also they must play for 60 minutes. The evening was bright and warm and the pitch was in good order.

The play: M. O Carroll had a K. O Rahilly’s point in the first minute. Then Pierce Hoare grabbed the ball high but dropped it and Rangers came away in a combined move – P. Prendiville to M. Moriarty and back again to Prendiville who was fouled. Tim Fleming pointed the 30m free. Pierce Hoare fielded again and Con O Connor was wide – a disputed decision. Morgan Nix was prominent at mid-field, but then Joe Shannon grabbed the next one and set up G. Murphy for a nice lofted point. Con O Connor got involved and with good play put K. O Rahilly’s level at two points each, in the tenth minute.

Morgan Nix’s fielding and hard work was rewarded with a free, as M. O Carroll put O Rahilly’s ahead. Noel O Sullivan at fullback saved K. O Rahilly’s twice but an outfield free was pointed by T. Fleming, showing great accuracy. Pat McKenna crossed the ball, which was delivered to the net but a free out resulted for a square ball. Tim Fleming , fielding high, showing great class, put Pat McKenna in for a point. In the 15^th minute, Noel O Sullivan cleared well but Joe Shannon grabbed the ball in midfield, delivered well and Michael Moriarty goaled beautifully – 1-4 to 0-3.

Laune Rangers were most constructive and positive. Noel O Sullivan saved O Rahilly’s again, clearing effectively but James O Shea, returning that effort, was wide. Patie Casey combined with his wing partner, Tim Fleming, for the latter to point. Ger Murphy broke through for a point. Then Tim Fleming fielded again, rising too high for Davy Keane, gave to Pat McKenna for a point in the 19^th minute. The ball had not passed midfield for 10 minutes now with L. Rangers dominant. In the 21^st minute, M. Moriarty had a point, combining with P. Casey and T. Fleming. In the next attack, O Rahilly’s managed to scramble the ball away and Mikey Keane saved them twice. Half-time 1-8 to 0-3.

In the 32^nd minute, M. Moriarty pointed. Morgan Nix sent a long free in for P. Hoare to field and when he gave to T. Hoare, K. O Rahilly’s gained a free and M. O Carroll pointed. Con O Connor fielded well, crossed and Bernie Keane was on hand to goal. M. O Halloran came on as a sub. James Sheehan cleared up the field to Joe Shannon and he put Rangers on the attack and when O Rahilly’s conceded a free 38m out on the right, Tim Fleming guided the ball between the uprights beautifully. Tim Fleming was now having a big bearing on the game. Noel Foley came in for K. O Rahilly’s. In the 48^th minute Pierce Hoare was fouled and M. Carroll pointed the free.

K. O Rahilly’s got back into the game through the efforts of Cathal Sheehy and Morgan Nix, whose driving play was impressive and when P. Hoare gave to Tom Hoare, he crashed the ball off the cross-bar. It bounded down with Peter Lyons well beaten but Rangers came away.

Frank O Connor, son of former O Rahilly’s fullback Walla O Connor, came on. Laune Rangers came back with T. Fleming to the fore, fielding again and putting James O Shea through for a point. In the 53^rd minute, Michael Moriarty, dashing out, put G. Murphy in possession and he pointed. K. O Rahilly’s swept upfield but P. Hoare was wide from a free. Pierce Prendiville attacked and gave to J. Shannon for a fine point. Morgan Nix swept through strongly from mid-field and when Con O Connor’s shot came off the crossbar, O Rahilly’s fate was sealed. Laune Rangers added just one more point. Morgan Nix, game to the end, careered through but being off balance, shot high and wide. Laune Rangers were deserved winners with Tim Fleming probably showing has best position at left half-forward.’

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons (Capt.), Danny Cahill, Michael O Reilly, James Sheehan, Pat O Brien, Paudie Sheahan, Shane O Sullivan, Joe Shannon (0-2), James O Shea (0-1), Gerard Murphy (0-2), Pierce Prendiville, Timmy Fleming (0-4), Pat McKenna (0-3), Michael Moriarty (1-1), Patie Casey. Subs: Mark O Connor for S. O Sullivan (inj), Tom Johnston, Liam Foley, Brian O Shea.

Kerins O Rahilly’s: Tom Lynch, Michael Keane, Noel O Sullivan, S. McCarthy, Davy Keane, Cathal Sheehy, John Collins, Morgan Nix, Michael Griffin, Tom Nix, Tom Hoare, Maurice Carroll (0-4), Bernie Keane (1-0), Pierce Hoare, Con O Connor (0-1). Subs: Michael O Halloran, Noel Foley, Frank O Connor.

Ref: Dan Moynihan (Legion).

 

Rd. 7 in Boherbue on Sun. 11^th June at 30.30pm: John Mitchel’s 1-9; Laune Rangers 0-3.

That was a terrible performance by Laune Rangers – the worst in three years. They failed to score from play – Timmy Fleming scored three frees. They were well beaten at mid-field. Consequently, the backs were under fierce pressure and wilted. Mitchels’ goal came from a penalty. Rangers’ forwards were inept. James Sheehan was sent off ten minutes into the second half.

John Barry of the Kerryman, reported thus: ‘ Laune Rangers lost more than their unbeaten Co. Football League record in this clash with John Mitchels at the Mitchels’ club field in Tralee on Sunday last – they also lost a lot of credibility as serious challengers for the county championship title.

Before last Sunday’s game, the Killorglin team were 3/1 favourites for the county championship with Tralee bookmaker, Colm McLoughlin. After it, their odds were pushed out to 5/1 and, really, they look particularly bad value at that. The picture is rather different where Mitchels are concerned. They were laid by McLoughlin at prices from 20/1down and are now on 8/1. Based on last Sunday’s performance, 8/1 represents attractive odds.

There was a lot of zest in Mitchels’ play throughout and their defence put the shackles in a big way on the Laune Rangers’ attack – so much so that the Killorglin side couldn’t get a single score from play. The Mitchels’ forwards, too, did well, with Marin Dennehy particularly effective at full forward. Mind you, only three points separated the teams at the three-quarter stage (0-6 to 0-3), but there was never a serious threat to the Mitchels’ goals and the issue was well and truly decided when the only goal of the game was scored by Mitchels’ John Hegarty from a penalty just before the end.

It was hard to believe that Laune Rangers could be so ineffective, bearing in mind their run of success in the league to date. Clearly, they are better than this game indicated, but they were thrown off their stride so easily that their mentors must be more than a little worried about their ability to win a crunch game. Rangers did secure quite a share of the ball in the first half, but they played with very little flair up front and they also left their shooting boots at home because they kicked ten wides as against four by Mitchels. The result was that they trailed by 0-5 to 0-1 at the interval. A strong cross-wind favoured them in the second half and their followers must have been expecting an improved performance, but it was Mitchels who forced the pace right from the restart and they never once relaxed their grip on the game.

Laune Rangers, however, were allowed to stay in touch because Mitchels proceeded to kick a number of wides and there was always the possibility that the Killorglin side might find the inspiration to score a goal. However, the Mitchels’ defence grew in confidence as the game progressed and nobody stood out more prominently than Robert O Dowd, who had a magnificent game at left halfback. In all other defensive sectors, Mitchels were in control and, even though Laune Rangers were reduced to fourteen men when corner-back, James Sheehan, was sent off for a foul on John Joe Sheehy, this made absolutely no difference to the result.

So, an important and morale-boosting win for Mitchels, a fortnight before their county championship clash with Feale Rangers at Moyvane. They have players, who will have to improve, but the overall impression was of a team anxious to go places and, whatever else, Mitchels will not fail because of a lack of commitment. For Laune Rangers, it was a day when they were brought back to earth with a resounding thud. Perhaps it’s the best thing that could have happened to them. Who knows?’

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Danny Cahill, Michael O Reilly, James Sheehan, Pat O Brien, Paudie Sheahan, Patie Casey, Joe Shannon, James O Shea, Gerard Murphy, Pierce Prendiville, Timmy Fleming (0-3 frees), Pat McKenna, Michael Moriarty, Paul Griffin. Subs: Tom Johnston for P. O Brien; Brian O Shea for M. Moriarty; William Joy for P. McKenna.

John Mitchel’s: Rory Kilgallon, Dan O Connor, Frank O Donnell, Colm Bambury, Kieran Moynihan, Anthony Gleeson, Robert O Dowd (0-1, 45), John Joe Sheehy (0-1), James O Dowd (0-1), John Hegarty (1-1 pen), John Higgins, Donal McEvoy (0-2), Noel Kelliher, Martin Dennehy (0-3 1free), Kieran Kelliher. Subs: Jack Moriarty for C. Bambury (in the 2^nd half).

Ref: Dan O Sullivan (Currow).

 

Rd. 2 in Killorglin on Sat. July 1^st: Laune Rangers 1-11; Beale 1-8.

That was a very good game of football. Rangers played with the aid of a strong breeze in the first half and were 0-4 to 0-3 in arrears at half-time – this despite Trojan work by Joe Shannon and James O Shea in the middle of the field. Ml. O Reilly handled ‘Bomber’ Liston well. Halfway through the second half, Timmy Fleming got a great goal, having been put through by Pierce Prendiville. Beale replied instantly in like fashion. However, Rangers finished well.

Kerry’s Eye carried this report on the game: ‘Laune Rangers and Beale served up a thrilling Lee Strand League game at J.P.O Sullivan Park, Killorglin on Saturday night last. This was a re-fixture of Round Two – the original game had been postponed. The good sized crowd, on a fine evening, got plenty to cheer about. The game produced plenty of free flowing football, splendid teamwork and some delightful scores. The issue hung in the balance, right up to the closing stages.

The sides were deadlocked, 1-8 each, with under five minutes remaining. Laune Rangers finished in a blaze of glory, scoring three match winning points, to deny a gallant Beale side. Both teams fielded at full strength. Rangers enjoyed whatever breeze existed in the opening half. The early exchanges saw some wides at both ends. Eoin Liston, who had another mighty game for Beale at fullforward, opened the scoring with a point after seven minutes. Laune Rangers midfielder, James O Shea, equalised one minute later. The Killorglin boys eased two points in front by the 14^th minute from dead ball situations converted by T. Fleming. It took a timely save from Rangers goalkeeper, Peter Lyons, to foil Ogie Moran of a goal after Beale worked the ball out of defence. Kevin Boyle was also off target after being put clear by Eoin Liston. Surprisingly, Rangers failed to score for the remainder of the half, the one pass too many breaking down in front of goal. Beale went in leading 0-4 to 0-3, E. Walsh, O. Moran and T. Murphy putting their names on the score sheet with points.

The second half turned out to be a rousing affair, with the sides tied on five occasions. Joe Shannon was the first to score from mid-field – a fine point, making it 0-4 each. Eoin Liston, with a towering leap, held the ball safely from a Dino Dowling free kick. The ‘Bomber’ turned sharply and sent over a lovely left legged point. The next bout of action saw two memorable goals, one for each side. Laune Rangers, sweeping upfield, found P. Prendiville out on the left. He slipped a peach of a pass, inside the Beale defence, to the incoming Timmy Fleming. The Rangers sharpshooter had the Beale keeper , Diarmuid Keane, at his mercy. Fleming blasted home an unstoppable left legged goal from the left of the small square. Rangers’ two points advantage was shortlived, as Beale hit back directly from the kick out. Eoin Liston flicked on a peach of a pass to Ger Costello. The lively top of the right went on and coolly beat Peter Lyons with a low drive from close range. Beale were back in front and the crowd were enjoying stamina sapping football. With still twenty minutes left to play, Rangers struck back with two sparkling points by Michael Moriarty and Paul Griffin to lead by 1-6 to 1-5. Eoin Liston again came to his side’s rescue when he screwed over the levelling point, which all so easily could have been a goal. The game, now in the final quarter, was still there to be won. Ger Murphy and Ogie Moran swapped points to leave the sides deadlocked once more. Eoin Liston’s point put Beale’s nose in front. This, however, was the North Kerrymen’s final score. Rangers drew level when Timmy Fleming lofted over a 40m free. Then came the winners’ grandstand finish. They piled on the pressure, adding three points with the ball camped inside the Beale half. James O Shea, Michael Moriarty and substitute, Pat McKenna, clinched the vital league points, and ended Beale’s unbeaten league record, to join Austin Stacks at the top of the table. On this display, Laune Rangers and Beale have served a warning that they will make a bold bid for championship honours. Rangers were best served by Peter Lyons, Danny Cahill, James Sheehan, Tom Johnston in defence, Joe Shannon and James O Shea performed excellently at midfield, while in attack Timmy Fleming, Paul Griffin, Michael Moriarty and substitute, Pat McKenna, did best.’

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Danny Cahill, Michael O Reilly, James Sheehan, Mark O Connor, Paudie Sheahan, Tom Johnston, Joe Shannon (0-1), James O Shea (0-2), Gerard Murphy (0-1), Pierce Prendiville, Timmy Fleming (1-3, 3frees), Paul Griffin (0-1), Michael Moriarty (0-2), Patie Casey. Subs: Pat McKenna (0-1) for P. Casey; Billy O Sullivan for P. Griffin; Pat O Brien, Anthony Shannon, Liam Foley, Brian O Shea.

Beale: Diarmuid Keane, Declan Vaughan, Kevin Johnson, Fergus Stack, Paul Guerin, Michael Purtill, Don Twomey, Dino Dowling, Sean Liston, Kevin Boyle, Ogie Moran (0-2 frees), Eddie Walsh (0-1), Ger Costello (1-0), Eoin Liston (0-4), Tommy Murphy (0-1). Subs: John Farrell for Murphy.

Ref: Dan O Sullivan (Currow).

 

Rd. 8 at Killorglin on Sat. 15^th July at 8pm: Laune Rangers 3-9; Austin Stacks 1-9.

That was a typical game of two distinct halves. In the first half Laune Rangers were terrible, while Stacks really looked the part. Rangers squandered umpteen chances of scores and were 0-7 to 0-1 in arrears at half time. Noel O Mahony gave the players some of his mind at half time in the dressing room and boy did it have the desired effect! Paul Griffin got a point on the resumption and then a great shot by him was parried and there was Michael Moriarty to rattle the net. Pierce Prendiville notched a point and then punched a rebound to the net. All this had occurred within the space of eight minutes. Gerard Murphy was pulled down in the square and Mark O Connor scored the resultant penalty. What a transformation! Tom Johnston, who was then at midfield, gave an exhibition of power play. Peter Lyons, in goals, was not as sure as heretofore. Danny Cahill was great. Brian O Shea was well beaten for possession but held his man scoreless. Mark O Connor, Pat O Brien and Paudie Sheahan played well. Pierce Prendiville, who moved to the ‘40’, had a great game. Patie Casey improved when moved to wingback. Gerard Murphy and Paul Griffin were revelations after halftime. Pat McKenna had a good second half. Michael Moriarty was quite solid at full forward. Anthony Shannon, although trying hard, was not fit enough. Considering that Rangers were missing Timmy Fleming, Joe Shannon and Billy O Sullivan (grounded because of next week’s Munster Finals), James O Shea (injured) and James Sheehan (suspended), that was a great performance against a virtually full-strength Stacks, who were in the quarter-finals of the Co. Championship versus West Kerry.

Mark Kilden reported in Kerry’s Eye as follows: ‘Trailing by seven points to one at halftime, Laune Rangers staged a magnificent power-packed second half display of delightful football, which had all the ingredients of a team with a championship look about them.

In the opening half, Tralee’s Austin Stacks had it all their own way. They were simply cruising, on top at midfield where Liam Kerins shone, and a halfback line of John Walsh, the towering and gritty Liam Liddy and Kieran Browne dominating and dictating the trend of play. The Stacks attack picked off points at will – seven in thirty minutes, while Rangers had their solitary point in the opening minute from a free by Paul Griffin. At that stage, one would not have given two pence for Rangers’ chances. If anything, they looked set for a drubbing.

What unfolded in the second half was unbelievable. A Laune Rangers team, beaten out of sight in all departments by the confident first-half Stacks, came out and steamrolled the black and amber men with vintage, splendid and heart-warming football which sent their large following into a frenzy of delight and left Stacks a bewildered lot. The scene of this dramatic episode in Round 7 of the Lee Strand top of the table clash was beautiful J.P.O Sullivan Park, Killorglin on Saturday night last. It must be labelled ‘the great Houdini escape’ by the Killorglin men. Call it what you like, make no mistake about it, I don’t believe any team left in the championship would live with Laune Rangers on their second-half spectacular. They scored 3-8 in thirty minutes. That score was remarkable and take note, there wasn’t a puff of a breeze to help them. It was the calmest night of the year, with sunshine on the double in Killorglin. Another plus in Rangers’ favour is that they achieved this morale-boosting pre-championship victory without the services of their big-name players Timmy Fleming, Joe Shannon, Billy O Sullivan (on Kerry training duty), James O Shea and James Sheehan. Austin Stacks lined out without Michael Crowley, Pat Slattery, Michael Counihan and Michael Corcoran.

After Griffin’s opening point for Rangers, Stacks replied with seven points from Eoin Moynihan (2), Ger Power, Darren Ahern, Liam Kerins, John Harrington and John Walsh to lead comfortably 0-7 to 0-1 at halftime. While Stacks remained out on the field during the short whistle break, Laune Rangers were brought inside locked doors and given a right dressing down by team manager, Noel O Mahony, and Co. When they re-appeared, the same fifteen remained but with some masterful positional switches. The siting of Tom Johnstom and Michael O Reilly to form the midfield partnership was a masterstroke, as they blotted out Kerins. Pierce Prendiville, who had started in the centre, moved to his favourite 40 yards, while his first-half partner, Patie Casey took over at halfback to release Johnson.

A resurgent Rangers got stuck in straight away. It was hard to believe that we were looking at the same team, such was their appetite, teamwork and near total dominance. They were in rampant mood. The style and poise, along with clinical striking dealt the ‘Rock’ three killer-blow goals by the tenth minute of the second half. Rangers had wiped out their six points halftime deficit to go six points in front. At that stage the Tralee side were in a state of dumbfounded shock as Rangers piled on the agony. The avalanche of scores came like this: Paul Griffin pointed within 40 seconds of the restart. Gerard Murphy and Anthony Shannon combined to set up Griffin for a pot at goal. His left-legged rasper cannons off the crossbar with Michael Hussey knowing little. Full-forward, Michael Moriarty, quickly gathers the rebound to shoot to the net from close range. From the kick-out, Pierce Prendiville wins possession and splits the uprights. The next score was goal No. 2. A long free by Dicey Reilly was kept out from under the crossbar by Michael Hussey. In like a flash to force home the ball was P. Prendiville to put his team 2-3 to 0-7 in front after only five minutes play and Stacks on the Rocks (excuse the pun). Four more minutes were to elapse before goal No. 3. Ger Murphy worked himself into the goalmouth, slipping by the defence. He had keeper, Michael Hussey, at his mercy. The custodian hand-tripped the Rangers sharpshooter for a definite penalty, which Mark O Connor, coming upfield from left fullback, expertly tucked the ball into the left, deceiving Hussey. Back came Pat McKenna for another point and the score stood 3-4 to 0-7. Sensational stuff! Michael Lynch pulled back a Stacks’ point. Rangers, enjoying themselves, playing possession football, tacked on a further four points per Ger Murphy (2), Pat McKenna and Paul Griffin. The game was firmly in Rangers’ court, 3-8 to 0-8. and a rout on the cards. Ger Power saved Stacks further embarrassment when he won a penalty, Peter Lyons, committing himself to foul the lion-hearted veteran. Eoin Moynihan slid the ball low along the ground into the left corner past keeper Lyons. Power and Paul Griffin exchanged points before the final whistle to leave the scoreboard reading 3-9 to 1-9 in a game best remembered for the winners, who, after being outplayed in the first-half to mere spectators, turned the game around in the second half with sheer brilliance, class, skill and super team effort.

Best for Rangers were Danny Cahill, Brian O Shea, Mark O Connor and Paudie Sheahan in defence, Tom Johnston and Dicey Reilly at midfield, while in a free flowing on-song attack in the last thirty minutes, Ger Murphy, Paul Griffin, Pierce Prendiville, Pat McKenna and the versatile Anthony Shannon all rose to dizzy heights.’

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Danny Cahill, Brian O Shea, Mark O Connor (1-0, pen.), Pat O Brien, Paudie Sheahan, Tom Johnston, Pierce Prendiville (1-1), Patie Casey, Gerard Murphy (0-1), Michael O Reilly, Paul Griffin (0-5), Pat McKenna (0-2), Michael Moriarty (1-0), Anthony Shannon. Subs: Liam Foley, William Joy, Gary McKenna.

Austin Stacks: Michael Hussey, John Galvin, Eamon O Brien, Dinny Walsh, John Walsh (0-1), Liam Liddy, Kieran Browne, Liam Kerins (0-1), Ray O Lehane, John Harrington (0-1), Ger Power (0-2), Michael Lynch (0-1), Eoin Moynihan (1-2, pen), Gerry Fitzmaurice, Darren Ahern (0-1). Subs: Joe Smith for O Lehane; Donal Sugrue for Harrington in the 50^th min.

Ref: Denis Reidy (Ballymac) – good.

 

Rd. 9 in Killorglin on Wed. 9^th Aug: Laune Rangers 2-10; Dr. Crokes 1-10.

Timmy Fleming withdrew from the original selection with a back injury – Danny Cahill had been selected in his usual corner-back position. Pat O Brien took exception to the selection of Shane O Sullivan and togged in, when the team was announced. Rangers’ first half performance was identical to the performance against Stacks. They were completely at sea, as Crokes tore them to pieces, scoring 1-8 when they really should have scored four goals. Peter Lyons made two super saves and the crossbar saved them on another occasion. Rangers’ solitary reply was a scrambled goal by Pat McKenna. The second half performance was like a Houdini act. Noel O Mahony gave some stick at halftime! Michael O Reilly, once again, threw the jersey when he was replaced. He could hardly complain as he had been dusted. Rangers took over in the second half, with both Joe Shannon and Gerard Murphy great, and Crokes never knew what hit them. Pat McKenna had a very good game. Patie Casey played well until his injury. Those kinds of performances would not win a Co. Championship. They would have to get their first half performances right.

‘Torc’ reported in the Kerry’s Eye as follows: ‘Laune Rangers defeated Dr. Crokes in the Lee Strand County League Div. 1 at Killorglin last Wed. night. This victory puts Rangers four points clear of Austin Stacks at the top of the table.

It was a game of two halves, with Dr. Crokes racing into a substantial lead, popping over points at regular intervals and adding a clever opportunistic goal by Mike Buckley – and Crokes were cruising. The breeze was with Dr. Crokes and they took advantage of a Laune Rangers team that did not show in this half. The football was loose and typical, until Laune Rangers, aided by an abrasive lecture at half time to wake up, did so and laid on an exhibition in the second half to come from behind to win by a goal going away and really looked like County Champions.

Their outstanding players were Gerard Murphy, Joe Shannon and James Sheehan, but all contributed to this victory which will put them on song for the ultimate stage of the Co. Championship. When football was needed to come from behind, Rangers had it and showed that they can win the County, but they should see that these slow starts are causing problems.

The Laune Rangers goal in the first half was fortuitous. The ball entered the net from a long centre. In the early second half a succession of scores brought them back into contention and with Crokes failing to compete at midfield and in other departments, Laune Rangers came to take this game in a manner which augurs well for their aspirations for the Co. Championship. All their players were impressive and their second half application brought dreams of a Co. Final triumph to the hearts and minds of their supporters and will conjure dreams of decades long ago when their name was a legend in the first century of the G.A.A.’

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Shane O Sullivan, Michael O Reilly, James Sheehan, Mark O Connor, Paudie Sheahan, Tom Johnston, Joe Shannon (0-4), James O Shea, Gerard Murphy (1-2), Pierce Prendiville (0-1), Patie Casey (0-1), Paul Griffin, Pat McKenna (1-2), Danny Cahill. Subs: Anthony Shannon for M. O Reilly; William Joy for P. Casey (inj.); Liam Foley.

Dr. Crokes: Peter O Brien, Donal Mangan, Liam Hartnett, John Clifford, John Foley, John Galvin, Brendan Keogh (0-1), Connie Murphy, Noel O Leary, Aidan O Shea (0-2), Peter Fleming (0-1), Colm Galvin, Tom O Shea (0-4), Mike Buckley (1-1), Ger O Shea. Sub: Pat O Shea (0-1).

 

Rd. 10 at Valentia on Fri. 1^st Sept: Valentia 1-12; Laune Rangers 0-13.

Laune Rangers began impressively and led 0-3 to 0-1 after fifteen minutes. With eight minutes to go in the first half they still led 0-3 to 0-2, but then Valentia began to dominate at midfield and had points by Pat O Connor and Fionan Murphy and a goal by Michael A. O Connell. Rangers were 1-4 to 0-4 in arrears at halftime. Pat McKenna had a great game. The backs were a little porous. Billy O Sullivan missed two kickable frees in the first half. Rangers played better in the second half. They could have snatched it at the end, when a rasper from Paul Griffin hit the outside of the post and went wide. Afterwards Rangers had sandwiches in Michael A. O Connell’s.

The Kerry’s Eye carried the following report: ‘This Div. One County League game was played in ideal weather conditions at O Connor Park, Chapeltown, on Friday evening. Both teams gave an excellent and sporting performance in a highly competitive game. Laune Rangers, who are Division One League leaders, were eager to add the Div. One title to their bid for Co. Championship honours and Valentia were trying to lift themselves off the bottom of the league table.

Laune Rangers opened the scoring with points from Patie Casey and Michael Moriarty in the tenth minute. Valentia were playing with a slight breeze advantage and were dominating midfield. They had four bad wides before Noel Curran opened their scoring with a point in the fifteenth minute. Laune Rangers had points from Michael Moriarty and Pat McKenna. Valentia held complete control at midfield, where Noel Curran and Fionan Murphy were outstanding. They had points from Declan Lynch, Pat O Connor (2), Fionan Murphy (2) and Michael A O Connell was put through by Ger O Driscoll for a goal just before half-time.

Laune Rangers started the second half in a lively manner and had points from Pat McKenna in the 3^rd and 6^th minutes. Ger Lynch replied with a long distance point for Valentia in the seventh minute. Some excellent football was served up at this stage, with Laune Rangers trying hard to gain the advantage. Ger Murphy had points in the 10^th and 14^th minutes to reduce the gap to one point. Valentia rallied and with Fionan Murphy, Ger Lynch and Ger O Driscoll playing excellently, they had points by Pat O Connor, Declan Lynch (2) in the 12^th and 21^st minutes. Laune Rangers replied with points by Pat McKenna(2) and Pierce Prendiville in the 22^nd, 23^rd and 24^th minutes. Ger O Driscoll and John Paul Curran added further points for Valentia in the 26^th and 27^th minutes. Paul Griffin replied for Rangers in the 28^th minute and with time nearly up, he had a very near miss when a shot for a goal hit off the upright and went wide.

Valentia were in fighting form and, on this performance, they should lift themselves out of the relegation zone.  It was very pleasing to see Ger Lynch back to his brilliant best and Fionan Murphy giving an outstanding display. Surely, Ger O Driscoll must be regarded as the best club footballer in Kerry over the past ten years. Laune Rangers were best served by Paudie Sheahan, James Sheehan, Pat O Brien, Pat McKenna, Michael Moriarty, Patie Casey, Paul Griffin and Pierce Prendiville.’

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Danny Cahill, Paudie Sheahan, James Sheehan, Pat O Brien, Tom Johnston, Shane O Sullivan, Pierce Prendiville (0-1), James O Shea, Pat McKenna (0-6), Gerard Murphy (0-2), Paul Griffin (0-1), Patie Casey (0-1), Michael Moriarty (0-2), Billy O Sullivan. Subs: Anthony Shannon for M. Moriarty; Timmy Corkery for P. Casey; Mark O Connor for S. O Sullivan; Brian O Shea, Liam Foley. Missing: Joe Shannon (inj.), Timmy Fleming (wedding).

Valentia: Tommy Gilligan, Richard Quigley, Brendie Murphy, Neilie Lyne, Seamus O Connor, Ger Lynch (0-1), P.J. O Sullivan, Fionan Murphy (0-2), Noel Curran (0-1), Pat O Connor (0-3), Ger O Driscoll (0-1), Paul Curran, Declan Lynch (0-3), John Paul Curran (0-1), Michael A. O Connell (1-0). Sub: Michael Lyne for P. Curran.

Ref: Pa Mannix (Listry).

 

Rd. 11 in Killorglin on Sat. 31^st Sept: Laune Rangers 4-14; Gneeveguilla 1-8.

That was an incredible performance, considering that the Co. Championship winning celebrations had gone on all week. Confidence was a great thing! Eamonn Horan reported in the Kerryman as follows: ‘The crowd may have been rather sparse but the performance was par excellence, as newly-crowned county champions Laune Rangers turned on the style at their own J.P. O Sullivan Park in Killorglin on last Saturday evening to hand a trouncing to Gneeveguilla in what turned out to be a very one-sided game in the Co. Football League.

This victory still leaves Rangers sitting on top of the premier division with just one round remaining. Chasing them in second place are Austin Stacks, two points adrift. Should Rangers lose their final game to Gaeltacht and were Stacks to overcome Beale. Then the two teams would finish level.

The fact that the game was 25 minutes late in getting underway suggests a certain air of casualness about the proceedings but Rangers proved this to be far from being the case as the game entered the second half. The opening half was even enough, although Rangers did pull clear of their rivals in the second quarter.

Rangers – they showed a few changes from the side that overcame John Mitchels in the county final a week earlier (Joe and Anthony Shannon and Paul Griffin were missing) – were 0-4 to 0-1 ahead after 11 minutes but Gneeveguilla, marshalled from behind by the indefatigable Ambrose O Donovan, were on level terms after 17 minutes when Mike Finnegan pointed a close-in free. Wing-forward, Gerard Murphy, regained the lead immediately afterwards for Rangers. Then wingback, Mark O Connor, always brisklike and busy, placed Pierce Prendiville for another point.

Gneeveguilla were trying their utmost to stay in the game but they were dealt a real body-blow in the 25^th minute when the home side struck for the first of their goals. And what a beautifully engineered score it was. Corner-forward, Pat McKenna, touched the ball on to Murphy and the hero of Rangers’ county championship triumph neatly tipped the ball onto corner-forward, Billy O Sullivan. In a jiffy, the twinkle-toed Kerry minor star left-footed the ball to the net from close range. Two minutes later, O Sullivan took a pass from Timmy Fleming to send midfielder, James O Shea, through for a well-taken point. That left Rangers leading by 1-7 to 0-4 at halftime.

Any hopes Gneeveguilla – they were forced to line out without even one substitute on the bench – may have entertained of getting back into serious contention were dealt a crippling blow nine minutes into the second half when full-forward Tommy Byrne and wing-back Patie Casey combined to put Gerard Murphy through for a magnificently struck goal (2-9 to 0-5). Gneeveguilla tried for all they were worth in that second half to stem the rot but 20 minutes into the half they had only managed to extend their score by four points – from a M. Finnegan free (32mins.), Mike Doyle (43 mins.) and two more from frees by Finnegan (47 & 50 mins.).

In the meantime, Rangers, playing now with unrestrained dash, confidence and know-how, had foraged and fought for further scores in the form of a point by Pat McKenna and a 45^th minute goal from the ginger-haired Tommy Byrne – a sub on last year’s All-Ireland winning Kerry minor team. That goal by the high-fielding, sure catching Byrne was a beauty. McKenna and O Sullivan linked up beautifully to ploy Byrne with a perfect pass and the tall full-forward belted the ball past goalkeeper Paudie Hickey with a vengeance. It was all Laune Rangers in the closing stages. They were on top in every sector of the field and the struggling Gneeveguilla men could do little about it. Fleming and James O Shea were rampant at midfield and the winners’ forwards ran rings around the Gneeveguilla backs, despite the feverish efforts of Ambrose O Donovan and Diarmuid Cremin.

Murphy and Fleming (2) added points before Billy O Sullivan whipped home a tremendous goal in the 57^th minute. Again, O Sullivan showed lightning fast reflexes as he unleashed a bullet-like shot from about 25 yards and this brilliant piece of marksmanship was once again roundly applauded by the crowd. Murphy added another point from a pass by O Sullivan and, by now, it was purely exhibition stuff by the home team. Gneeveguilla were allowed to salvage something from the wreckage of defeat. Pat O Sullivan was upended in the parallelogram and referee Maurice O Sullivan unhesitatingly pointed to the penalty spot. Midfielder James Brosnan duly converted from the spot, the ball going in off the bottom of the stanchion. It was but a poor mead of consolation for Gneeveguilla on an occasion when they found themselves struggling in too many key areas against a Laune Rangers side which simply revelled in playing before their own supporters.

Outstanding for Rangers were Paudie Sheahan, Mark O Connor and Tom Johnston in defence, Timmy Fleming and James O Shea at midfield, and Billy O Sullivan, Gerard Murphy, Tommy Byrne and Pierce Prendiville in attack.

Footnote: The game was 25 minutes late in starting and finished in somewhat fading light.’

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Shane O Sullivan, Paudie Sheahan, James Sheeahn, Mark O Connor, Tom Johnston, Patie Casey, Timmy Fleming (0-4), James O Shea (0-1), Gerard Murphy (1-5), Pierce Prendiville (0-1), Danny Cahill, Pat McKenna (0-1), Tommy Byrne (1-1), Billy O Sullivan (2-1). Subs: Owen Joy for J. Sheehan; Liam Foley for P. Lyons.

Gneeveguilla: Paudie Hickey, Dan Kissane, Tadhg Collins, John Cronin, Dan Cremin, Ambrose O Donovan (0-1), Eoin O Leary, Mike Doyle (0-1), James Brosnan (1-0 pen), Sean Og O Leary (0-1), Mike Finnegan (0-4 frees), Aeneas Looney, Eugene O Leary, John Murphy (0-1), Pat O Sullivan.

Ref: Maurice O Sullivan (Ballyheigue).

 

Rd. 1 in Gallarus on Sun. 10^th Dec: Gaeltacht 1-5; Laune Rangers 2-10.

Mark Kilden reported in Kerry’s Eye as follows: ‘Laune Rangers completed the big double in Kerry Senior Football when they easily disposed of Gaeltacht at Gallarus on Sunday morning last in a postponed round to clinch the League Shield for the third time in four seasons. Rangers, already crowned Kerry Senior Football Champions by virtue of their landslide victory over John Mitchels in the final, came to Gallarus needing just a draw to add the league title. From the outset there was never any doubt about the outcome. Rangers, at full strength were never in any danger against a very depleted and disorganised Gaeltacht, who found it difficult to muster fifteen starting players. This was a real end of the season fare. Gaeltacht had done enough, highly placed in Div. 1, safe for another season among the elite. Rangers were intent on making the double, the first team since the great Austin Stacks side of the ‘70’s. From the minute that Joe Shannon pointed Rangers into the lead, it was never a contest.

Rangers, only playing in low gear, added seven more before the interval, which was of twenty-five minutes duration. The referee, the very capable Maurice O Sullivan from Ballyheigue, cut the playing period of each half when Gaeltacht found it difficult to field a team at the appointed starting time of 12.30 – it did, however, begin at 12.52pm – and in order to facilitate patrons attending the West Kerry Championship Final at Lispole he adopted the right attitude. It made no difference to the overall result, as, from the outset, Laune Rangers were the masters.

Tom Flaherty, one of Gaeltacht’s better players, playing in his last game for the Gaeltacht before bowing out after a glorious career, levelled matters in the 10^th minute, cancelling out Shannon’s point. Rangers built up a commanding lead before the break. Joe Shannon was in scintillating form at midfield, his partner, Timmy Fleming, lending good assistance, while in the halfback line the ever-impressive Shane O Sullivan played one of those games, which must bring him into the reckoning for a county jersey. Timmy Fleming had the winners’ second point. By the 20^th minute, Rangers had extended their advantage to six. Shannon, at midfield, split the uprights with three more specials, picked off with the coolness of a veteran. Fleming added two more while, just on the break, Shane O Sullivan capped a wonderful display of attacking halfback football with his second point, moving into attack out of defence. At halftime, the score-line read Laune Rangers 0-8, Gaeltacht 0-1 and at that stage the second half was only a formality. No breeze and beautiful conditions made football the winner.

The second-half was only one minute old when Joe Shannon struck again for his fifth point. Tom Flaherty edged one back for Gaeltacht from a free. Rangers, turning on the style, found gaps in Gaeltacht’s defence. A fine piece of individual brilliance by Timmy Fleming, saw him waltz around Gaeltacht’s cover to fire in a shot at the splendid Tom Sayers in the loser’s goals. Sayers stood firm and was equal to the task, averting the danger for a ‘45’, which on-song Joe Shannon steered beautifully clean between the sticks.

Ten minutes into the second half came the first of Rangers’ goals. A ball was dropped into the goalmouth by T. Fleming and was kept in play by Billy O Sullivan. It broke into the path of James O Shea. Well positioned, he gave the hapless Sayers no earthly chance with a low pile-driver from close range. The ball was firmly buried in the Gaeltacht net, who were in arrears 1-10 to 0-2 and on a hiding to nothing. Rangers, well on the way, made three substitutions by the 20^th minute. Points by Flaherty (free), Micky O Connor and Tom O Shea made the scoreboard more respectable. Then disaster struck for luckless Gaeltacht. Shane O Sullivan sent a through ball into the goalmouth, Ger Murphy, who was rather subdued, latched on to the gift and the green flag was waving as he buried it low with his left foot.

The final score of the game came two minutes from the end. Tom Flaherty netted a great penalty after Rangers’ keeper, Peter Lyons, breached the rules by advancing before a 13m free kick was taken. Young Fergal O Shea, nephew of the great Paudie, was just outside in a last attack, after some neat footwork. When Maurice O Sullivan blew fulltime at the end of the twenty five minutes, Rangers, comfortably in front 2-10 to 1-5, had clinched their third Div. 1 title in four seasons to crown a most memorable year. Their large loyal band of followers had plenty to celebrate. They put other more famous clubs in the shade and in 1990, tell me the team that will dispose of them. I don’t see any. Singling out Rangers’ players is most unfair at the end of a glorious season. Each one has played with remarkable courage and spirit, when called upon and that is what makes teams champions. 1989 is certainly Rangers’ year and who can deny them that honour. Their football throughout was brilliant, their sportsmanship excellent and they have set a high standard for other teams to follow. Well done Laune Rangers, double Champions of Kerry.

An interested spectator was Kerry all-time great, Paudie O Shea, who was looking as fit and sharp as ever. Hopes of a comeback? Don’t rule it out. Full marks to Gaeltacht club for providing refreshments for both teams.’

When all was over, a most enjoyable afternoon was spent in Páidí’s Bar in Ventry and in Murphy’s Bar, Boolteens.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, James Sheehan, Paudie Sheahan, Anthony Shannon, Mark O Connor, Tom Johnston, Shane O Sullivan (0-2), Joe Shannon (0-6  1 ‘45’), Timmy Fleming (0-2 frees), Gerard Murphy (1-0), Pierce Prendiville, James O Shea (1-0), Danny Cahill, Tommy Byrne, Billy O Sullivan. Subs: Patie Casey for Danny Cahill; Brian O Shea for Tommy Byrne; Michael O Reilly for Paudie Sheahan.

Gaeltacht: Tom Sayers, Anthony O Connor, Richie O Mahony, Martin O Sullivan, John O Shea, Paudie O Connor, Tom Begley, Micky O Connor (0-1), Tom Flaherty (1-3 frees & pen.), Fergal O Shea, Michael Collins, Sean Brick, John Walsh, Seamus Fitzgerald, Tom O Shea (0-1).

Ref: Maurice O Sullivan (Ballyheigue).

 

Laune Rangers were Co. League Div. 1 Champions.

Co. Club ‘B’ Championship

 

(Players, who had played in the 1989 Co. Senior Championship, were not eligible to play in that competition).

Rd. 1 on Fri. 21^st July at Killorglin at 7.30pm: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 2-4; Aunascaul ‘B’ 1-10.

That was a very poor performance, mainly because of a lack of physical fitness. Only those players who were on the ‘A’ panel were training seriously, the others scarcely ever trained. Rangers were well beaten at midfield. Consequently, they struggled throughout the field. Gene Evans and Jerry Foley played well in defence. In attack, only Gary McKenna looked dangerous as he scored one goal and laid on one for Frankie Brennan.

Laune Rangers: Liam Foley, Gene Evans, Brian O Shea, Pat Pigott, Jerry Foley, Martin Clifford, John F. O Brien, Pat O Brien, William Joy, Robert Evans, Pat Brennan, Ant. Shannon, James McInery, Gary McKenna, Francis Brennan. Subs: John Griffin for J. F. O Brien; Donal Pigott for B. O Shea (inj.); John Whelan, Dermot Griffin.

Ref: Denis Reidy (Ballymac) – good.

 

Co. League Div. 4 South.

(We had to name our first eighteen senior players, who were then not eligible to play in Div. 4)

 

Rd. 2 on Sun. April 2^nd at Portmagee at 2.30pm: Skellig Rangers 0-3; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 3-12.

Although the game was played in atrocious underfoot conditions, that was a very good performance. Liam Foley was very safe in goals and his huge kick-outs were a feature of the game. At right corner-back, minor, John O Donnell, played with a coolness that belied his tender years, intercepting and clearing intelligently. Fullback, Brian O Keeffe, had the game of his life, while William Joy, with a typical spirited performance, completed the fullback line. The halfback line of Jerry Foley, Martin Clifford and Sean Fenton never put a foot wrong, defending and being the springboards of the attack. Both midfielders, Michael O Reilly and Pat O Brien, were heroic and revelled in the conditions. The former ended the day with 0-6, while the latter helped himself to 1-1. The forwards made light of the treacherous underfoot conditions, none more so that stalwarts, Brian O Shea and John Griffin. With constant urgings and promptings, both led by example. Bertie O Riordan had a very good game at right half-forward and, later when switched to halfback, he displayed his natural defensive qualities. Sean Fenton benefited from the switch and scored two nice points. Left half-forward and minor, Pa Murphy, showed great class and workrate and capped a very good performance with a goal. In the corners were the Pigott brothers, Pat and Donal, both of whom worked hard and both contributed greatly to that very excellent win. Robert Evans, when he came on, took his goal well and showed that his appetite for the game had not diminished.

Laune Rangers: Liam Foley, John O Donnell, Brian O Keeffe, William Joy, Martin Clifford, Jerry Foley, Sean Fenton (0-2), Michael O Reilly (0-6), Pat O Brien (1-1), Bertie O Riordan (0-1), Brian O Shea, Pa Murphy (1-0), Pat Pigott (0-1), John Griffin (Capt.)0-1, Donal Pigott. Sub: Robert Evans (1-0) for D. Pigott.

Ref: Michael Murphy (Foilmore).

 

Rd. 3 on Sun. April 16^th at Killorglin at 2.30pm: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 1-6; Tuosist 0-6.

Playing with the aid of a strong breeze in the first half, Rangers led 1-5 to 0-3 at halftime. John Griffin scored 1-2 and Frankie Brennan 0-3. In the second half they managed to score only 0-1 per F. Brennan but missed enough to win two games. Liam Foley was sound in goals. B. O Keeffe and John F. O Brien did well in the fullback line, as did P. Pigott, when he switched with Dan Hurley. Mark Conway had a great game, while Martin Clifford and Jerry Foley played very well. Pat O Brien was great at midfield, ably assisted by Sean Fenton. Frankie Brennan, despite some near misses, played well. John Griffin was great and the others were adequate.

Laune Rangers: Liam Foley, Dan Hurley, Brian O Keeffe, John F. O Brien, Jerry Foley, Martin Clifford, Mark O Connor, Pat O Brien, Sean Fenton, Bertie O Riordan, Brian O Shea, Frankie Brennan (0-4), Pat Pigott, John Griffin (1-2), Donal Pigott. Subs: Gary McKenna for D. Hurley; John Whelan for D. Pigott; Maurice O Shea for G. McKenna.

Ref: Dan O Callaghan (St. Senan’s).

 

Rd. 4 on Sun. 30^th April at Kilgarvan at 3pm: Kilgarvan 1-4; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 1-13.

Conditions were very slippery. The opposition was tough and ‘narky’. Rangers dominated at midfield.

Laune Rangers: Liam Foley, Dan Hurley, Brian O Keeffe, John F. O Brien, Jerry Foley, Martin Clifford, Pat Pigott, Pat O Brien (0-1), Michael Moriarty (0-4), Mark O Connor (0-2), Brian O Shea (0-1), Frankie Brennan (0-3), Danny Cahill, John Griffin (0-1), Donal Pigott. Subs: John Evans for D. Pigott; Brian O Sullivan(1-1, pen) for J. Evans; Mark O Sullivan for D. Hurley, Maurice O Shea, Gerard Clifford, Billy O Sullivan, John Whelan.

Ref: Richie Fitzgerald (Listry).

 

Rd. 5 on Sun. 14^th May at Killorglin at 3pm: Laune Rangers ‘B’ w.o. from Foilmore.

Foilmore failed to fulfil the fixture. At 3.05 they rang James Coffey’s to say that they would not be travelling – disappointment.

 

Rd. 6 on Sun. May 28^th at Ballinskelligs: St. Michael’s 1-4; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 5-14.

Team: Liam Foley, Mark O Sullivan, Brian O Keeffe, Sean Fenton, Martin Clifford, Jerry Foley, John F. O Brien, Michael O Reilly, Pat O Brien, John Griffin, Brian O Shea, Michael Moriarty, James McInery, Gary McKenna, Donal Pigott. Subs: Danny Cahill for G. McKenna; Buddy O Sullivan for D. Pigott.

 

Rd. 7 on Sat. 10^th June at Farranfore: Firies 1-9; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 2-10.

It was the advent of Michael O Reilly, after halftime, to midfield, that won the game for Rangers. John Griffin was sent off for the first time in his life.

Laune Rangers: Liam Foley, Dan Hurley, Brian O Shea, Joe Purcell, Pat Pigott, Jerry Foley, John F. O Brien, Martin Clifford, William Joy, Anthony Shannon, John Griffin, Dermot Griffin, James McInery, Gary McKenna, Donal Pigott. Subs: Michael O Reilly for D. Hurley; Billy O Shea for J. Purcell.

Ref: Tom McCarthy (Desmonds).

 

Rd. 8 on Sun. 16^th July at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 3-16; Dromid 2-4.

Having played with the aid of a breeze in the first half, Rangers were 2-3 to 0-6 in arrears at halftime. They had played poorly in the heat of the first half. In the second half, however, they took over at midfield and goals by Frankie Brennan and Michael Moriarty (2) – one penalty – and great scores by Michael O Reilly and Michael Moriarty gave them an easy victory.

Laune Rangers: Liam Foley, Dan Hurley, Brian O Shea, William Joy, Jerry Foley, Martin Clifford, John F. O Brien, Michael O Reilly, Pat O Brien, Frankie Brennan, Michael Moriarty, Pat Pigott, James McInery, Gary McKenna, Donal Pigott. Subs: Danny Cahill for D. Hurley; Pat Brennan for P. O Brien (inj.) John Whelan for J. McInery. Missing – John Griffin (inj.).

Ref: Tom Brennan (Desmonds).

 

Rd. 9 on Sun. 6^th Aug. at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 0-13; Rathmore ‘B’ 1-5.

Rangers played poorly in the first half despite the best efforts of Michael O Reilly, Brian O Keeffe, William Joy and Danny Cahill. They led at the interval by 0-5 to 0-3. On the resumption they improved immensely with Michael O Reilly and Pat O Brien taking over completely at midfield.

Laune Rangers: Liam Foley, Gene Evans, Brian O Keeffe, William Joy, Jerry Foley, Martin Clifford, John F. O Brien, Michael O Reilly, Pat O Brien, Mark O Connor, Danny Cahill, Frankie Brennan, James McInery, Gary McKenna, John Griffin. Subs: Pat Pigott for M. Clifford; Donal Pigott for F. Brennan, John Whelan for J. McInery; Robert Evans, Pat Brennan.

Ref: Pat Sheehy (Clounmacon).

 

Rd. 10 on Sat. 2^nd Sept. at Valentia: Valentia ‘B’ 2-8; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 2-9.

William Joy and Martin Clifford played very well. Pat O Brien and Michael O Reilly gave Rangers the upper hand at midfield. John Griffin led the forwards in great style, getting a goal and laying on a goal for James McInery.

Laune Rangers: Liam Foley, Dan Hurley, Pat Pigott, John F. O Brien, Jerry Foley, Martin Clifford, William Joy, Pat O Brien, Michael O Reilly, Robert Evans, Brian O Shea, Anthony Shannon, James McInery, John Griffin, Donal Pigott. Subs: Billy O Shea for D. Pigott; John Whelan.

Ref: Sean O Sullivan (Glenflesk).

 

Rd. 11 on Sun. 1^st Oct. at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ w.o. from Milltown/Castlemaine ‘B’

Milltown/Castlemaine failed to show for the game.

 

Rd. 1 on Sun. Oct. 22^nd at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 4-9; Cromane 0-3

Cromane were very poor, scoring only two points from play, whereas Rangers missed as many goals as they scored. John Griffin led by example and scored 2-2. Frankie Brennan scored 2-3. Michael O Reilly lorded the midfield area. William Joy was outstanding at centre halfback. All the others played well, also. Liam Foley could not play as he had an injured finger.

Laune Rangers ‘B’ were then the winners of Div. 4 South and had to play the winners of Div. 4 North, Austin Stacks ‘B’, to decide the outright Div. 4 champions.

Laune Rangers: Fergus O Meara, Gene Evans, Pat Pigott, Anthony Shannon. Jerry Foley, William Joy, John F. O Brien, Michael O Reilly, Michael Moriarty, Mark O Connor, Brian O Shea, Danny Cahill, Mark O Sullivan, John Griffin, Frankie Brennan. Subs: Donal Pigott for A. Shannon; James McInery for M. O Sullivan, Robert Evans for M. O Connor.

Cromane: Trevor Foley, Patrick Conway, Frank Walsh, Terence McCarthy, Gerard Casey, Tomas Hayes, John O Shea, Liam Hayes, Patrick Teahan, Michael Teahan, Gerard O Connor, John Clifford, Stephen Casey, Denis Teahan, Kieran O Callaghan.

Subs: Tim Carey for D. Teahan; Michael (Fox) O Shea for S. Casey; John Teahan for T. McCarthy.

Ref: Pa Mannix (Listry).

 

Final on Sun. 5^th Nov. at Currow: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 2-9; Austin Stacks ‘B’ 1-5.

That was a great team performance, with everybody doing his bit. Liam Foley was very safe in goals and his kicks-out were good. Mark O Sullivan continued to improve. Pat Pigott played very well and blotted out the threat posed by Noel Power. Anthony Shannon had his moments but was caught for speed at times. Later in the game he was moved into attack. Jerry Foley had been suffering from the flu all the week and had not got over its effects. He was replaced, during the game, by Owen Joy, who had a very good game, playing solidly and determinedly. Gene Evans was soundness personified and blocked the middle effectively. John Francis O Brien commanded his position with authority and never put a foot wrong. Michael O Reilly excelled at midfield. He stood head and shoulders above everybody else. His work-rate was amazing. Pat O Brien was very strong, though a little unfit, having been on holidays in Cyprus for two weeks. Mark O Connor tried very hard but he played his best football in defence when he exchanged with Anthony Shannon. Michael Moriarty never rose to his usual heights, though he did try hard near the end and was eventually replaced by John Griffin, who had been sidelined with a knee injury. He was no sooner on the field, than he crashed the second goal to the net, having received from Frankie Brennan. Billy O Shea was a revelation, particularly in the first half, when he tormented the Stacks’ defence. He scored two great points and he was unlucky with another shot for a goal that was deflected for a ‘45’. Frankie Brennan played very well throughout. He scored two points and was, also, unlucky with a shot at goal that was deflected for a point. Brian O Shea worked very hard and distributed very well. Danny Cahill fought very hard, winning possession and distributing. He scored the first goal, having been set up by Frankie Brennan. Altogether, a fitting end to the year for a team that went undefeated through the Co. League and Mid-Kerry ‘B’ Championship. They lost but one game that year – the Co. Club ‘B’ Championship first round to Aunascaul ‘B’. The game had been originally scheduled for Milltown but the pitch was declared unplayable, and, on Sunday morning, Currow was found as a venue. After the game, Co. Board P.R.O., Eamonn O Sullivan, presented the trophy to team captain, John Griffin.

The Kerryman reported on the game thus: ‘Laune Rangers are really in a winning groove this year and they picked up yet another county title, their fourth in all, by beating Austin Stacks in the Division 4 county football league final at Currow on Sunday.

This game, switched at short notice from Milltown, provided some excellent entertainment. The second strings of both clubs were in action and, where Laune Rangers were concerned, especially, there was a share of promising talent on view. Indeed, Rangers played with such verve and skill in the first half that a rout was threatened. They fell two points behind at the very start, but then they took over completely and scored 1-9 without reply before halftime.

Some of their combination was quite brilliant and top class scores were taken. The Stacks’ defence was badly exposed, so much so that on one occasion coming up to halftime, just one defender was left to face three forwards. A goal should undoubtedly have resulted, but, in fairness to Stacks’ goalkeeper, John O Riordan, he brought off a superb save from Francis Brennan, the ball going off him over the bar.

Brennan had earlier played a part in Rangers’ first goal, which was scored by Danny Cahill. Full-forward, Brian O Shea, was chiefly responsible for the score, because he made a terrific catch and then gave a very good pass to Brennan, who put Cahill in possession. Cahill belted the ball to the net with a lot of authority and there was simply no stopping Rangers after this. They were sharper in every sector and an interval lead of ten points was the least they deserved.

Wing-forward, Billy O Shea, looked particularly impressive, demonstrating skill, speed and scoring ability that will surely make him a Laune Rangers star of the future.

It was reasonable to assume that Rangers would continue to shape up as the better side in the second half and pull further ahead, but, in fact, the game underwent a dramatic transformation. Inside a minute, Stacks had struck for a goal, and, for the first time, the Tralee men began to play with real dash and enthusiasm. The goal came from veteran full-forward, Noel Power, who punched a sideline ball from Joe Smith past Rangers ‘keeper, Liam Foley.

Just before halftime, Stacks had introduced John Galvin for Pat Dowling and Galvin was to play a significant role in his team’s recovery. As well, centre half-back, Martin McKivergan, emerged as a powerful figure and Laune Rangers found themselves being driven back on the defensive in a big way. Stacks followed Power’s goal with two lovely points, from Frankie Ryan and Mike O Donnell, and suddenly in the space of five minutes, Rangers’ lead had been halved.

Stacks continued to push forward in search of further scores, bur Rangers were strong enough in defence and, as well, Stacks simply didn’t have the penetration (or the combination), which was evident in the play of the Rangers’ forwards in the first half.

Stacks did narrow the gap further with a fine point by Frankie Ryan, but other chances were thrown away and as the second half wore on, Rangers began to win more of the play again. By this time, however, Stacks were much tighter at the back and Rangers couldn’t break through for even a point. Stacks were, of course, the ones who needed to do the scoring and when they couldn’t get their arrears below four points well into the last quarter, a goal became the only hope of salvation. That goal never looked like materialising.

In fact, they were to be hit for a goal themselves in the very last minute. Rangers’ team captain, John Griffin, who had been unable to start because of a knee injury, had just come on as a substitute and he gratefully accepted a pass from dynamic wing-forward, Mark O Connor, and sent an unstoppable shot past John O Riordan.’

Laune Rangers: Liam Foley, Mark O Sullivan, Pat Pigott, Anthony Shannon, Jerry Foley, Gene Evans, John F. O Brien, Michael O Reilly (0-3), Pat O Brien, Mark O Connor, Michael Moriarty (0-1), Billy O Shea (0-2), Frankie Brennan (0-2), Brian O Shea (0-1), Danny Cahill (1-0). Subs: Owen Joy for J. Foley; John Griffin (1-0) for M. Moriarty; Donal Pigott for A. Shannon; John O Donnell, John Whelan.

Austin Stacks: John O Riordan, N. Barrett, Pat Dowling, Denny Walsh, Eddie Dowling, Martin McKivergan, D. O Brien, Brendan Murphy, Mike O Donnell (0-1), D. Sugrue, Joe Smith, John Harrington, Frankie Ryan (0-4), Noel Power (1-0), T. Ryan. Subs: Sean Field for O Brien; John Galvin for Dowling; Michael Lynch for T. Ryan.

Ref: Pa Mannix (Listry).

Mid-Kerry Senior Football Championship

 

Rd.1 at Milltown on Fri. Aug.4^th at 8pm: Laune Rangers 1-13; Keel 0-6.

Laune Rangers were quite poor in the first half and missed great opportunities of scores, especially Patie Casey and Pat McKenna. They were in control at midfield. Gerard Murphy had a very good game and got some great scores. Timmy Fleming also played very well – his free-taking, however, was not consistent. The other forwards were poor and they were not scoring regularly. The backs were adequate.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Anthony Shannon, Michael O Reilly, James Sheehan, Pat O Brien, Paudie Sheahan, Shane O Sullivan, Joe Shannon, James O Shea, Gerard Murphy, Timmy Fleming, Paul Griffin, Pat McKenna, Pierce Prendiville, Patie Casey. Subs: Gary McKenna for P. Griffin; Brian O Shea for M. O Reilly; Tom Johnston, Danny Cahill, Mark O Connor, Liam Foley.

Missing: Michael Moriarty (inj.), William Joy (inj.). The Co. Minors had a trial game.

Ref: Michael Murphy (Milltown/Castlemaine).

 

Semi-Final on Sun. Oct. 29^th at Milltown at 3pm: Milltown/Castlemaine 2-9; Laune Rangers 0-10.

Finally Laune Rangers had lost their Mid-Kerry crown after six years of victories on the trot. Paudie Sheahan had warned Jerome Conway, Chairman, during the week that the older players would respond all right but he was afraid that some of the younger players’ attitude to this game was poor. Unfortunately his prediction was correct. Paul Griffin did not arrive until the game was on – he had been in Tralee. Some of the other younger players were ‘on the town’ on the previous evening.

Rangers lost the toss and played with the aid of a strong wind in the first half and were 2-1 in arrears after just five minutes, chiefly through Willie Maher. He slammed in two goals, the second resulting from a quick kick out by Peter Lyons to Paudie Sheahan, whose kick was blocked down and Willie Maher buried the ball in the net. Thereafter, Rangers struggled despite the best efforts of Timmy Fleming, who gave a sterling performance. James Sheehan and Shane O Sullivan played great stuff, also. The forwards, however, never really rose to the occasion. Gerard Murphy was a big loss. Joe Shannon, though his hand was still in a cast, came on out of frustration but could achieve little. They missed quite a few chances before halftime. The halftime score was 2-3 to 0-6 in favour of the winners. Paul Griffin was sent off for very little with ten minutes to go.

A report in a local newspaper read: ‘It was one of the best games in Mid-Kerry for years and great credit is due to both teams for their sportsmanship. In a very nice gesture, Milltown/Castlemaine formed a guard of honour for county champions, Laune Rangers, as they came on to the field.’

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Danny Cahill, Paudie Sheahan, James Sheehan, Mark O Connor, Tom Johnston, Shane O Sullivan, Timmy Fleming, Michael O Reilly, Pat McKenna, Pierce Prendiville, James O Shea, Patie Casey, Tommy Byrne, Billy O Sullivan. Subs: Paul Griffin for M. O Reilly; Anthony Shannon for J. O Shea; Joe Shannon for P. McKenna; Brian O Shea.

Milltown/Castlemaine: William O Shea, Paud Hogan, Mike Colgan, Andrew Boyle (capt.), Liam Spring, Ger Teahan, Sean Costello, Sean Burke, Mike Dennehy, Liam Kelliher, Liam Burke, John O Brien, Timmy Teahan, Willie Maher, Sean Counihan.

Ref: Kieran Breen (Beaufort).

 

Final on Sat. 11^th Nov. at Beaufort: Beaufort 0-5; Milltown/Castlemaine 0-9

 

Mid-Kerry Senior League

 

Rd. 2 in Killorglin on Sat. 8^th April: Laune Rangers 0-11; Glenbeigh 0-3.

That was a most uninteresting game. Glenbeigh fielded a very young side. They had their few hatchet men as well. Pat O Grady was sent off. Tom Johnston was fantastic in the middle of the field and seemed to have gotten a new lease of life. Pat McKenna played well, while Patie Casey fitted into the team like a glove. Pierce Prendiville, also, played well. The defence easily outplayed the young Glenbeigh attack.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, James Sheehan, Michael O Reilly, Anthony Shannon, Mark O Connor, Pat O Brien, Shane O Sullivan, Tom Johnston (0-1), Pierce Prendiville, Paul Griffin (0-2), Pat McKenna (0-5), Patie Casey (0-2), Frankie Brennan, Tommy Byrne, Danny Cahill (0-1). Subs: Brian O Keeffe for J. Sheehan; William Joy for F. Brennan.

Ref: Michael Muhphy (Milltown).

 

Rd. 1 at Killorglin on Sat. 22^nd April: Laune Rangers 5-9; Milltown 0-2.

That game had been postponed, from 19^th Feb., due to the very inclement weather and the consequent state of the pitch. Timmy Fleming lorded it at midfield. James O Shea was very effective at centre halfback. All the forwards showed great eagerness.

Laune Rangers: Liam Foley, Danny Cahill, Michael O Reilly, James Sheehan, Mark O Connor, James O Shea, Shane O Sullivan (0-1), Pierce Prendiville (1-2), Timmy Fleming (0-2), Joe Shannon, Pat McKenna, Patie Casey (1-0), Gerard Murphy (2-3), Michael Moriarty (1-1), Paul Griffin. Subs: Tom Johnston for P. McKenna; Brian O Keeffe for S. O Sullivan; Peter Lyons.

Ref:  Kieran Breen (Beaufort).

 

Rd. 3 at Killorglin on Sun. 23^rd April. Laune Rangers w.o. from Cromane.

Cromane notified the Mid-Kerry Board that they were conceding the points.

 

Final at Milltown on Fri. 16^th June: Laune Rangers 1-12; Beaufort 1-3.

The final had originally been scheduled for Fri. 2^nd June but, at Beaufort’s request, it was postponed due to the death of a grandaunt of the Hartnetts. Rangers were well on top throughout and won easily. Chairman of the Mid-Kerry Board, Michael McCarthy, presented the cup to Peter Lyons. Gerard Murphy was awarded the man-of-the-match award – the adjudicators were Buddy O Grady (John Mitchels) and Eddie O Sullivan (Dr. Crokes).

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Danny Cahill, Michael O Reilly, Anthony Shannon, Mark O Connor, Paudie Sheahan, Tom Johnston, Joe Shannon, James O Shea, Gerard Murphy, Pierce Prendiville, Patie Casey, Pat McKenna, Michael Moriarty, Paul Griffin. Subs: William Joy for D. Cahill; Liam Foley for P. McKenna.

Ref: Michael Murphy (Milltown).

 

Mid-Kerry ‘B’ Championship

(Any player who played in the Co. Senior Championship in 2001 or 2002 or in the Mid-Kerry senior Championship in 2001 was not eligible to play in that competition unless he was regraded)

 

Rd. 1 on Sun. May 21^st at Milltown: Milltown/Castlemaine ‘B’ 1-5; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 4-13.

Laune Rangers had some very good performances. Brian O Keeffe was unbeatable at fullback – his fielding and clearances were impeccable. Both midfielders excelled – both in the air and in distribution. Gary was the ideal target man, winning the ball, scoring 1-2 and distributing to the other forwards. Donal Pigott got a goal, Michael O Reilly scored 1-2 and John Griffin scored 1-3.

Laune Rangers: Liam Foley, Dan Hurley, Brian O Keeffe, Pat Pigott, Mark O Sullivan, Jerry Foley, John F. O Brien, Michael O Reilly, Tommy Byrne, Frankie Brennan, John Griffin, Bertie O Riordan, James McInery, Gary McKenna, Donal Pigott.

Sub: Martin Clifford for B. O Riordan (who was going to work in London on Fri.).

Ref: Kieran Breen (Beaufort).

Although Rangers went undefeated through that competition up to the final, there were no records of the other games that they played. That championship was played on a league basis, with all the Mid-Kerry ‘B’ teams playing each other and the top two teams reaching the final. Normally the games were played on consecutive Tuesday evenings.

 

Final on Tues. 22^nd Aug. in Keel: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 2-8; Keel ‘B’ 0-9.

When Laune Rangers arrived in Keel they had only 14 players. Mossy Joy, who had paid to get into the game, was asked to tog out and he obliged. Rangers played against a slight breeze and towards the road end in the first half. Points by Michael O Reilly (2), James McInery, John Griffin, and Donal Pigott and a great goal by James McInery gave them a 1-5 to 0-3 interval lead.

Donal Pigott got a point. Ml. O Reilly and Robert Evans also scored. Gary McKenna goaled after a shot by Frankie Brennan was blocked. Mark O Sullivan had a great game. Pat Pigott excelled at fullback. John Francis O Brien played well. The halfback line was rock solid. Midfield belonged to Michael O Reilly, with ample help coming from Frankie Brennan. John Griffin, always foraging, was the best of the forwards. Gary McKenna had his moments, as did JamesMcInery and and Donal Pigott.

Michael O Reilly was awarded man-of-the-match.

After the game, George Evans, on behalf of the Mid-Kerry Board, presented the trophy to captain, John Griffin. Rangers had sandwiches in Murphy’s Bar afterwards, compliments of Keel club. It was celebrating its centenary and the club had requested Laune Rangers to play the ‘B’ final in Keel and they had agreed.

Laune Rangers: Liam Foley, Mark O Sulivan, Pat Pigott, John F. O Brien, Jerry Foley, Martin Clifford, Robert Evans, Michael O Reilly, Frankie Brennan, John Whelan, John Griffin, Donal Pigott, James McInery, Gary McKenna, Mossy Joy.

Sub: none.

Ref: Michael Murphy (Milltown/Castlemaine).

 

Sneem 7-a-side Tournament

On Sun. 4^th June Laune Rangers travelled to take part in the tournament but Sneem was the only other team to partake. They played the hosts and won.

 

Co. U-21 Championship

Selection Committee – James Sheehan (Trainer/Coach), Noel o mahony and Maurice Corkery.

Rd. 1 on Sat. 9^th Sept. at Cahersiveen: South Kerry 3-5; Laune Rangers 0-8.

Preparations for that competition were not good, as so many of the players were in either the senior or minor teams, both of which were in their respective Co. Finals within the following fortnight. Those teams had to be given precedence. A choice had to be made and fortunately the trainers of the senior and U-21 teams had a sensible working relationship. Nevertheless, Rangers played poorly. They had plenty of the ball in the first twenty minutes but they made little use of it. Maurice Fitzgerald took over at midfield in the second half and the Launesiders could not match him. Timmy Fleming tried his best.

Christy O Connell, South Kerry P.R.O., reported in The Kingdom as follows: ‘Laune Rangers were given a salutary lesson on the importance of taking your scores when they fell to reigning champions, South Kerry, in the Co. U-21 Football 1^st Round Championship game at the Con Keating Memorial Park last Friday evening. When South Kerry enjoyed their periods of dominance over the hour their more direct approach paid off handsomely. In stark contrast Rangers continually over-elaborated on a short passing game. Passes went astray and were intercepted regularly and it’s a night Rangers will want to forget. No doubt Rangers will bemoan their first half performance when they literally dominated against the wind but still trailed 0-4 to 0-1 at halftime. No team can afford lapses such as this and still hope to win a county championship game. Rangers backroom boys were obviously not satisfied with their efforts in the opening half and surprisingly took off an off-form Billy O Sullivan at half time to be replaced by last year’s Kerry minor, Tommy Byrne. But within 30 seconds of the restart they were dealt a crushing blow when fullback Danny Cahill’s clearance was blocked down and the inrushing Mike O Dwyer blasted home an opportunist goal. This score seemed to unnerve the Launesiders and from here to the finish they played second fiddle to a very competent South Kerry outfit. Maurice Fitzgerald, ably assisted by Noel Curran, held the whip hand at midfield for the winners. South Kerry’s second goal was a real gem. Following an intricate series of passes, Carl O Dwyer cracked home a crisp shot past a helpless Liam Foley, ten minutes from the end. The closing minutes were merely of academic interest as the Rangers challenge had all but fizzled out.

Laune Rangers will obviously be disappointed with the performance of their senior players on the night, in view of the forthcoming Co. Senior Final. They are a great club, which has reached the Co. U-12, U-14, U-16, minor and senior finals this year. I’m sure they will take this latest hiccup in their stride.’

Laune Rangers: Liam Foley, Mark O Sullivan, Danny Cahill, Owen Joy, Mark O Connor, William Joy (capt.), Shane O Sullivan, Timmy Fleming, James O Shea, Paul Griffin, Pat McKenna, Patie Casey, Timmy Corkery, Billy O Sullivan, Frankie Brennan. Subs: Tommy Byrne for B. O Sullivan; Billy O Shea for T. Corkery; John F. O Brien, Pa Murphy.

South Kerry: Oran O Mahony (St. Mary’s), Denis O Sullivan (Sneem), Liam Burns (do.), Barry Clifford (Derrynane), Sean O Sullivan (Sneem), Tim Dennehy (Waterville), John Cronin (do.), Maurice Fitzgerald (St. Mary’s) 0-3, Noel Curran (Valentia) capt., Micheál Galvin (Sneem), Carl O Dwyer (Waterville) 1-0, Peter Keane (St. Mary’s) 1-1, Declan Lynch (Valentia) 0-1, Pierce O Leary (St. Mary’s), Mike Dwyer (Waterville) 1-0. Subs: Paul Curran (Valentia) for P. O Leary; Michael O Connor (Sneem) for D. O Sullivan.

Ref: Timmy Sheehan (Templenoe).

 

Co. Minor Football Championship

Selection Committee – John Evans (Trainer/Coach), Maurice Corkery and Jerome Conway.

Rd. 1 on Tues. 25^th July at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 1-10; Killarney 1-6.

That was a workmanlike performance. The county players were mediocre – to be expected considering that they had played in the Munster Final on Sunday. It had always been argued that the players should get at least four or five days to recover from a Munster Final before playing in a county Championship game. Niall Moriarty was sound in goals, but his kick-outs were poor. The fullback line was very solid, particularly Owen Corkery. Billy O Shea excelled in the halfback line, and he scored a great point near the end. John Doona tried very hard at midfield, with Brian Mangan playing in fits and starts. Timmy Corkery tried very hard as usual. Timmy Linehan was ponderous. Nigel Reidy played well – particularly when he took a great pass from Billy O Sullivan and sent an inch-perfect 30m kick to Jason Griffin, who netted for a great goal. Both Michael Lynch and Jason Griffin played well. Billy O Sullivan scored some great frees, particularly a 60m effort from out on the right.

Laune Rangers: Niall Moriarty, Anthony O Sullivan, John O Donnell, Owen Corkery, Owen Joy, Pa Murphy, Billy O Shea, John Doona, Brian Mangan, Timmy Corkery, Timmy Linehan (capt.), Nigel Reidy, Michael Lynch, Billy O Sullivan, Jason Griffin. Subs: Carl O Sullivan, Pat Cahill, James Hurley, Noel Conroy, Billy Dermody, Sean Brennan, Anthony Clifford, Robert Murphy, Owen O Sullivan.

Ref: Con Murphy (Tralee).

 

Quarter Final on Tues. 1^st Aug. at Finuge: Feale Rangers 0-8; Laune Rangers 4-7.

Laune Rangers began in whirlwind fashion, with Billy O Sullivan scoring two goals in the first five minutes. For the remainder of the half, they scored just one other point. Rangers were annihilated at midfield. They halfback line kept them in the hunt, particularly Billy O Shea, who played a stormer. They led at halftime by 2-1 to 0-4.

The midfield improved slightly on the resumption. Timmy Corkery, who had a quiet first half, scored a goal. Feale Rangers missed a penalty and Billy O Sullivan scored another great goal and a few points. Owen Joy revelled in the tough going. Though the winning margin might suggest otherwise, Laune Rangers were lucky to get out of Finuge.

Laune Rangers: Niall Moriarty, Anthony O Sullivan, John O Donnell, Owen Corkery, Owen Joy, Pa Murphy, Billy O Shea, John Doona, Brian Mangan, Timmy Corkery (1-1), Nigel Reidy, Jason Griffin, Michael Lynch (0-1), Billy O Sullivan (3-5), Timmy Linehan. Subs: Carl O Sullivan, Billy Dermody, Pat Cahill, James Hurley, Noel Conroy, Anthony Clifford, Shaun Brennan, Robert Murphy, Owen O Sullivan.

Ref: Richard Williams (Dingle).

 

Semi-Final on Thurs. 31^st Aug. at Austin Stack Park: Laune Rangers 2-10; Mid-Kerry 0-8.

Laune Rangers were then in the County Final for the fourth year-in-a-row, and seeking three in-a-row of victories. Niall Moriarty was sound in goals. Anthony O Sullivan was terrific, with John O Donnell and Owen Corkery also good in the fullback line. The halfbacks began slowly, but improved as the game progressed, especially the wing-backs. John Doona excelled at midfield, beating Kieran O Shea well. Timmy Corkery played very well. The half-forward line was reasonably good, as were Michael Lynch and Jason Griffin. What could be said about Billy O Sullivan that had not been said already. He was superb. Mid-Kerry tried numerous players on him to no avail. He missed a few kickable frees, but, otherwise, he was outstanding and a joy to behold.

Laune Rangers: Niall Moriarty, Anthony O Sullivan, John O Donnell, Owen Corkery, Owen Joy, Pa Murphy, Billy O Shea, John Doona, Timmy Corkery (0-2), Nigel Reidy, Brian Mangan, Timmy Linehan, Michael Lynch (0-2), Billy O Sullivan (2-5), Jason Griffin (0-1). Subs: Adrian Hassett, Billy Dermody, Owen O Sullivan, Shaun Brennan, Anthony Clifford, Noel Conroy, Carl O Sullivan, James Hurley, Pat Cahill, Robert Murphy.

Ref: Maurice O Sullivan (Ballyheigue).

 

Final on Sat. 16^th Sept. at Austin Stacks Park: Laune Rangers 2-12; St. Brendan’s 0-8.

That was a super display, combined with excellent individual performances. Rangers won the midfield battle well in the first half. Their backs were great in the second half, while under immense pressure. Billy O Sullivan was mighty. Timmy Corkery was the man-of-the-match. Jason Griffin also played well. When Owen Corkery switched over to mark Eamonn Ferris, he announced his arrival with a well-placed shoulder, which angered the Brendan’s sideline. After the game Seamus Mac Gearailt, St. Brendan’s trainer, and Jerome Conway had heated words over the incident, during which it was explained to the former Kerry great that there hadn’t been any foul committed and that he was a little naïve to expect that a player would not use means within the laws of the game to curb his opposite number.

Rangers created a new record by becoming the first club to win three county minor football championships-in-a-row and to contest four finals in a row. It was also a unique record for Billy O Sullivan, who had played in all four finals and his performance in that final stamped him as one of the greatest minor full forwards of all time.

The team got a rousing reception on its arrival home, where windows and doorways and streets were full of flag waving supporters. The Canon Lyne Cup rested on Timmy Linehan’s sideboard across the road from the J.P. O Sullivan Park.

Mark Kilden reported in Kerry’s Eye as follows: ‘Billy O Sullivan, remember that name, you will be hearing a lot more about it in the coming years. Those who witnessed last Saturday night’s Kerry Minor Football Final between Laune Rabgers and highly-rated St. Brendan’s at Austin Stack Park, Tralee, went away with only one name freely mentioned, Laune Rangers’ young, dazzling hero, Billy O Sullivan. Yes, this was O Sullivan’s game.’

The Kerryman carried this report: ‘Inspired by the brilliance of Billy O Sullivan, Laune Rangers achieved a notable hat-trick of minor championship titles against a St. Brendan’s side which fared an awful lot better than the final scoreline might suggest.

Allied to O Sullivan’s individual flair, Rangers’ greater teamwork and understanding were the main ingredients of their success. They certainly have made a profound impact on underage football in Kerry since losing comprehensibly to Killarney in the ’86 minor decider.

St. Brendan’s were certainly the livelier outfit during the opening passages of play, with the impressive Eamonn Ferris giving them a two-points advantage inside five minutes. Rangers’ mentors acted promptly, transferring Owen Corkery to the right corner of the defence. Billy O Sullivan, with an excellent free from outside the 45m line, had Rangers’ opening score and he levelled matters with an equally fine effort after seven minutes.

With the standard of play at a very high level, Tim Corkery landed a superb long-range effort to give Laune Rangers a lead they were never to surrender. Indiscipline in the Brendan’s rearguard saw needless frees being given away and Brendans were lucky that Billy O Sullivan didn’t punish them more severely. Doona and Mangan were working very hard as a midfield unit at this juncture for Laune Rangers and they gave their team a decided pull in the centre of the field.

Michael Lynch availed of a goalmouth tangle to knock over Rangers’ fourth point and Billy O Sullivan kicked another point shortly afterwards. With Corkery proving to be a constant thorn in the side of the Brendan’s defence, Scroope and Harty exchanged positions in the half-line. Another free, once again out of the top drawer, by Billy O Sullivan gave Rangers a deserved four-points advantage.

Maurice Whelan was, at this stage, on the forty for Brendan’s as Laune Rangers stayed firmly in control in all sectors of the pitch. Conor Kearney raised some hope with a fine run, but he finished poorly. Seamus Murphy, from a free, narrowed the gap, but Billy O Sullivan had a very quick reply at the other end and Tim Corkery put Rangers five points clear after some excellent approach work and support play by the Killorglin attack. With the opening half in injury time, that goal-poacher supreme, Billy O Sullivan, struck with a vengeance to deliver a crucial blow. It left St. Brendan’s eight points adrift as the teams retired for the halftime break.

Brendan’s resumed with Tom Slattery partnering Kearney at midfield and Johnny Tuite from Churchill replacing J.J. O Sullivan in attack. They badly needed early scores and team captain, Conor Kearney, with a fine fetch and left-footed delivery, provided the early boost of a point. Murphy quickly followed with another point from a free, and, quiet clearly, the initiative was firmly in Brendan’s grasp as their opponents lapsed noticeably around the middle of the field. With a monopoly of possession, Brendan’s looked to have a definite chance of forcing their way back into contention, but their play lacked teamwork and they were too often depending on individual effort to keep their hopes alive.

Having soaked up continuous pressure during the third quarter, Rangers reply was swift and decisive, Billy O Sullivan showed excellent vision, placing Timmy Corkery, who put over a point with some confidence. Billy O Shea followed with another fine point and, even though Seamus Murphy replied with a point from a free, he was badly off target with two very easy chances shortly afterwards. If Brendan’s availed of all of their scoring opportunities, the game would probably have hung in the balance up until the final stages.

However, Laune Rangers’ scoring average was phenomenal and after O Driscoll had kicked a good score for Brendan’s under pressure, Billy O Sullivan from a half chance landed their eleventh point of the game. Once again, excellent approach play created a chance for the outstanding Tim Corkery and he put the game firmly out of St. Brendan’s reach. Niall Moriarty effected two fine saves as Brendan’s, to their credit, kept up the fight. With the game in its final minute, the star of the show, Billy O Sullivan, put the icing on the cake, notching his and Rangers’ second goal. It sealed a memorable individual performance and gave Laune Rangers the second leg of the minor double.

Their defence, although overworked on occasions, never wilted. Their fullback line was always solid after overcoming an anxious opening ten minutes. Owen Joy, although he had some good runs to his credit, had his hands full coping with Seamus Murphy. Pa Murphy was strong and determined, while Billy O Shea mixed grit and determination with some subtle footballing skills. This is a young player about whom we will hear an awful lot more in the coming years.

Doona and Mangan were solid without being spectacular while up front as expected, the twin threat came from county minors, Corkery and O Sullivan. Between them they contributed all but two of the team’s total.

Brendan’s need not feel in any way despondent about the result. They contributed to a fine game, even if the scoreboard didn’t reflect their wholehearted effort. Colm O Loughlin, Muiris Harty and Tom Slattery were determined defenders, while McElligott and Kearney produced some fine fielding, while never achieving the level of consistency needed to dominate the midfield area. Seamus Murphy won a lot of possession, but they never quite succeeded in transferring it into scores, and substitutes O Sullivan and Tuite were always willing and hard working. The St. Brendan’s player who achieved most with limited possession was Eamonn Ferris. It was perhaps surprising that he didn’t figure on the forty during the hour, and we could well be seeing him in action in Pairc Ui Chaoimh or Killarney in future years.

Full marks to all concerned with Laune Rangers on this victory. For people like Jerome Conway it is due reward for continued unselfish effort over a number of years. Billy O Sullivan was the star-of-the-show and great things are being predicted for him, but it would be a pity if he was pushed too early into senior inter-county action.’

On the Tues. evening preceding the final, John Evans asked Ogie Moran to speak to the team. They assembled in the Carnegie pitch and Ogie gave the players some very good advice e.g. if you are close enough to an opponent that you can foul him, don’t bother, because he has to play the ball away after four steps and you can then dispossess him. He, also, went through some drills with the team. That was very much appreciated.

Laune Rangers: Niall Moriarty, Anthony O Sullivan, John O Donnell, Owen Corkery, Owen Joy, Pa Murphy, Billy O Shea (0-1), John Doona, Brian Mangan, Timmy Corkery (0-4), Timmy Linehan (capt), Nigel Reidy, Michael Lynch (0-1), Billy O Sullivan (2-6), Jason Griffin. Subs: Adrian Hassett, Billy Dermody, Carl O Sullivan, James Hurley, Pat Cahill, Noel Conroy, Stephen Corkery, Anthony Clifford, Shaun Brennan, Owen O Sullivan, Robert Murphy.

St. Brendan’s: Mike Barrett (Na Gaeil), Mike O Shea (Na Gaeil), Conor Ryle (St. Pat’s), Colm O Loughlin (Na Gaeil), Maurice Harty (Churchill), Tom Slattery (Abbeydorney), John Scroope (Churchill), Conor Kearney (Abbeydorney) 0-1, Bernard McElligott (do.), Pat O Driscoll (Ardfert), J.J. O Sullivan (do.), Seamus Murphy (St. Pat’s) 0-4 frees, Kevin Lucey (Na Gaeil), Maurice Whelan (do.), Eamonn Ferris (Ardfert) 0-2. Subs: John Tuite (Churchill) for J.J. O Sullivan: Colm O Sullivan (Na Gaeil) 0-1 for K. Lucey.

Ref: Tom Golden (Desmonds).

Co. Minor Football League Div. 1

Rd. 1 on Wed. 29^th March at Strand Rd: Kerins O Rahilly’s 1-3; Laune Rangers 3-10.

The team played good football, combining well despite a greasy ball. Wing-backs, Billy O Shea and Owen Joy, played exceptionally well. Others to impress were T. Corkery, B. Mangan, J. O Donnell, M. Lynch, J. Doona and A. Hassett.

Laune Rangers: Niall Moriarty, Adrian Hassett, John O Donnell (capt.) Owen Corkery, Billy O Shea (1-0), Pa Murphy, Owen Joy (0-1), John Doona, Timmy Corkery, Billy Dermody, Brian Mangan (0-2), Nigel Reidy (0-2), Michael Lynch (2-2), Billy O Sullivan (0-3), Jason Griffin. Subs: Robert Murphy for B. Dermody; Stephen O Sullivan, Pat Cahill, James Hurley, Timmy Linehan (inj.). Anthony O Sullivan was running in a N.A.C.A. competition.

Ref: Micheal Kerins ( K. O Rahillys) – the referee failed to show. O Rahillys asked us to toss for the referee, even though we should have had the choice of referee according to rule, and we agreed but lost the toss.

 

Rd. 2 on Fri. 7^th April at Mitchel’s Pitch, Tralee: John Mitchels 3-3; Laune Rangers 4-12.

Mitchels conceded the game before the start, as they did not have the necessary number of players.

Laune Rangers: Niall Moriarty, Anthony O Sullivan, John O Donnell, Adrian Hassett, Billy O Shea, Pa Murphy, Owen Joy, John Doona, Timmy Corkery, Billy Dermody, Brian Mangan, Nigel Reidy, Michael Lynch, Billy O Sullivan, Jason Griffin. Subs: Owen O Sullivan, Tom Fitzgerald, Robert Murphy (all played).

Ref: Michael Sweeney (Ballymac).

 

Rd.3 on Tues. 18^th April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 4-9; Austin Stacks 0-8.

That was a magnificent display by the Rangers lads. The game was played with true championship fervour. There was no room for the feint hearted but, unfortunately, near the end the Stacks resorted to mean, late tackles that went unpunished by the referee. Owen Joy was outstanding in the first half and drove the opposition back time and again but he was the recipient of some rough treatment in the second half and had to be replaced as he was suffering from concussion.

Billy O Sullivan was superb, scoring 3-6, and setting up Jason Griffin’s goal with a quick free. In goals, Niall Moriarty played well and his kicks-out were good. Adrian Hassett did well despite twisting an ankle. John O Donnell, after a slow start, played very well. Owen Corkery was not as dominant as usual but it was discovered afterwards that he had played with a temperature of 102 degrees! Pa Murphy stuck to the task of marking Pa Laide well and finished stormingly. Anthony O Sullivan, despite a sluggish start, got on top of his opposite number and finished well. John Doona had rarely played as bad and was still obviously suffering from the effects of the flu. Timmy Corkery played his usual dynamic game, working tirelessly and bravely. Nigel Reidy improved when he was moved to the ‘40’ and gave Billy O Sullivan two great passes. Brian Mangan did well and was a great grafter. Billy O Shea played well, getting to the breaks at midfield and supporting his backs. Michael Lynch played quite well and won a lot of ball. Jason Griffin took his goal bravely and was industrious throughout.

Laune Rangers: Niall Moriarty, John O Donnell, Adrian Hassett, Owen Joy, Pa Murphy, Anthony O Sullivan, John Doona, Timmy Corkery (0-1), Nigel Reidy (0-1), Brian Mangan, Billy O Shea (0-1), Michael Lynch, Billy O Sullivan (3-6), Jason Griffin (1-0). Subs: Billy Dermody for O. Joy (inj.); Sean Brennan, Noel Conroy, Robert Murphy, Tom Fitzgerald, Stephen O Sullivan, Anthony Clifford (Dromin), Pat Cahill, Carl O Sullivan, James Hurley.

Ref: Tomas O Connor (Lispole).

 

Rd. 4 on Fri. 21^st April at Dingle at 7pm: Dingle 1-5; Laune Rangers 3-10.

That was a good team performance despite the injuries. There were exceptional performances from J. O Donnell, P. Murphy, A.O Sullivan, T. Corkery, J. Griffin, J. Doona and B. O Sullivan.

Laune Rangers: Niall Moriarty, Noel Conroy, John O Donnell, Anthony O Sulivan, Billy O Shea, Pa Murphy, Nigel Reidy, John Doona, Timmy Corkery (0-2), Michael Lynch (1-1), Brian Mangan, Billy Dermody, Carl O Sullivan, Billy O Sullivan (2-5), Jason Griffin (0-2). Subs: Tom Fitzgerald, Anthony Clifford, Sean Brennan (all played), James Hurley. Missing through injury – Owen Joy, Adrian Hassett and Owen Corkery.

Ref: Michael O Sullivan (Ballymac).

 

Rd. 5 on Fri. 28^th April at Killorglin at 7pm: Laune Rangers 1-5; Legion 3-8.

Prior to that game Rangers had qualified for the final. Legion then qualified by reason of the victory for the Co. League Final and Rangers would be at full strength.

Laune Rangers: Tom Fitzgerald, Niall Moriarty, John O Donnell, James Hurley, Billy Dermody, Billy O Shea, Anthony O Sullivan, John Doona, Brian Mangan, Carl O Sullivan, Nigel Reidy, Jason Griffin, Stephen O Sullivan, Michael Lynch, Owen O Sullivan. Subs: Robert Murphy, Anthony Clifford, Sean Brennan. Missing because of the Munster Minor League Final on the following day were: Billy O Sullivan, Timmy Corkery, Owen Joy and Pa Murphy. Missing through injury – Adrian Hassett and Owen Corkery.

 

Final on Fri. 12^th May at Beaufort at 7.30pm: Laune Rangers 3-9; Legion 0-8.

Rangers gave a scintillating display in the first quarter, which really won the game for them as they were playing against the breeze. Both midfielders excelled and B. O Sullivan responded with a great goal and he also set Carl O Sullivan up for another soon afterwards. Points from T. Corkery and M. Lynch put them in a strong position at halftime. Pa Murphy shone in that half and John O Donnell was outstanding throughout.

Rangers seemed to relax in the second half and allowed Legion more room. However, when the Killarney side threatened to make a comeback, the Killorglin forwards responded with well-taken points and a goal from T. Corkery. Timmy Linehan was excellent in goals, bringing off one really fine save in the second half. That was their third league title out of four finals in-a-row.

The team went to The Manor Inn afterwards for grub.

Laune Rangers: Timmy Linehan (capt), Anthony O Sullivan, John O Donnell, Owen Corkery, Owen Joy, Pa Murphy, Billy O Shea, John Doona, Brian Mangan, Timmy Corkery (1-3), Nigel Reidy, Carl O Sullivan (1-0), Michael Lynch (0-2), Billy O Sullivan (1-4), Jason Griffin. Subs: Billy Dermody, Noel Conroy, James Hurley, Pat Cahill, Anthony Clifford, Sean Brennan, Tom Fitzgerald, Stephen O Sullivan, Robert Murphy, Owen O Sullivan, Niall Moriarty (injured hand), Adrian Hassett (broken ankle).

Ref: Dan O Sullivan (Currow).

 

Mid-Kerry Minor Championship

 

Semi-Final on Sat. 3^rd Nov. at Milltown: Laune Rangers defeated Keel.

 

Final on Sat. 30^th Dec. at Milltown: Laune Rangers 3-6; Beaufort 0-5.

The Beaufort Notes in The Kerryman reported that ‘in ideal conditions Beaufort minors gave a creditable performance before being beaten 3-6 to 0-5 by a strong Laune Rangers team. Beaufort trailed 1-2 to 0-3 at the interval and narrowed the lead to one point ten minutes into the second half. However, three well taken goals proved decisive after a very entertaining game.’

Laune Rangers: Niall Moriarty, Adrian Hassett, John O Donnell, Eoin Corkery, Anthony O Sullivan, Pa Murphy, Billy O Shea, John Doona, Timmy Corkery (0-1), Nigel Reidy, Brian Mangan (2-0), Timmy Linehan, Michael Lynch (0-1), Billy O Sullivan (1-4), Jason Griffin. Subs: Carl O Sullivan for M. Lynch; Billy Dermody for J. Griffin. Missing – Owen Joy.

Beaufort: Ray Galvin, Eamonn Breen, Gary McGrath, Dan Guerin, Mícheál Spillane, Kieran O Shea, Kieran Coffey, Brendan Breen (capt.), Anthony Joy, Fergal Spillane, Vincent O Donoghue, Michael O Brien, Kieran Tangney, John Casey, Patrick O Shea. Subs: Aidan Cremin, Kieran Doyle.

 

Minor Football Challenge Game

 

Sat. 2^nd Dec. at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 4-9; Dungannon 0-5.

Laune Rangers hosted Tyrone county minor champions, Dungannon, over the weekend. After a close and hectic first half, after which Rangers led by a single point, they turned on the style in the second half to win easily.

 

Co. U-16 District Board Championship

That competition was played on an open draw, knockout basis. Coach/Selector: Jerome Conway. Selectors: Tim Coffey (Beaufort), Sean Foley (Keel).

 

Rd. 1 on Sat. 2^nd Sept. at Aunascaul: West Kerry 0-8; Mid-Kerry 2-10.

Mid-Kerry played very well. The backs were very good with Pat Cahill and Mike Hassett well to the fore. Gary McGrath was very good. Jason Griffin played great stuff with good support from Martin Burke and Mikey Griffin. Jason Griffin and Mikey Griffin got the goals.

Mid-Kerry: Colin O Sullivan (Cromane), Kieran Coffey (Beaufort), Paudie Russell (Laune Rangers), James Hurley (do.), Mike Hassett (do.), Pat Cahill (do), Michael Flynn (Keel), Gary McGrath (Beaufort), Kieran Doyle (do.), Martin Burke (Milltown), Jason Griffin (Laune Rangers), Fergal Spillane (Beaufort), Carl O Sullivan (Laune Rangers), Mikey Griffin (do.)capt., Kevin Jones (do.). Subs: Aidan Cremin (Beaufort) for F. Spillane; Joe McAuliffe  (Milltown) for K. Jones; Derry O Sullivan (Laune Rangers), Kevin Teahan (Cromane), Michael Lawlor (Milltown), James Giles (Milltown), Kealon O Sullivan (Laune Rangers), Sean O Sullivan (do.), Tommy Griffin (Keel), Liam Barton (Keel), Michael Cahillane (Laune Rangers), Declan Byrne (do.).

Ref: Mick Galwey (Currow).

 

Semi-Final on Tues. 5^th Sept. at Beaufort at 7pm: Mid-Kerry 2-10; East Kerry 0-8.

That was a very good performance. The backs were very sound with Paudie Russell, Kieran Coffey and Mike Hassett to the fore. Gary McGrath had a very good second half. Martin Burke played well throughout. Kevin Jones was great in his corner and scored 2-2. All the others played well with Kieran Doyle the weakest, although he improved later in the game.

Laune Rangers: Colin O Sullivan, Kieran Coffey, Paudie Russell, James Hurley, Mike Hassett, Pat Cahill, Mike Flynn, Gary McGrath, Martin Burke, Kieran Doyle, Jason Griffin, Fergal Spillane, Carl O Sullivan, Mikey Griffin, Kevin Jones. Subs: Aidan Cremin, Joe McAuliffe, Derry O Sulivan, Kevin Teahan, Mike Lawlor, Kealon O Sullivan, Sean O Sullivan, James Giles, Liam Barton, Michael Cahillane, Declan Byrne.

Ref: Tom McCarthy (Desmonds).

 

Final on Sun. 22^nd Oct. at Austin Stack Park: Mid-Kerry 1-11; Castleisland District 1-7.

That was our second year-in-a-row winning that competition. It was particularly pleasing to win that final, as the opposition backs adopted some debatable tactics against our forwards, particularly their numbers 6 and 7. Paudie Russell was outstanding at fullback, clearing his lines repeatedly. Mike Hassett was great, particularly when he moved to centre half-back. Mike Flynn kept his end up very well, and gave a gutsy performance. The other three backs also had their moments. Colin O Sullivan’s kicks-out were good and he made one particularly good save in the second half. Gary McGrath was great at midfield, fielding outstandingly and delivering well. Martin Burke played well but faded. Kieran Doyle played very well – his point scoring from frees was excellent. Jason Griffin tried very hard but shipped very heavy treatment, particularly from number 7. Fergal Spillane and Kevin Jones played well. Neither Carl O Sullivan nor Mikey Griffin lifted their games.

Laune Rangers: Colin O Sullivan, Kieran Coffey, Paudie Russell, James Hurley, Mike Hassett, Pat Cahill, Michael Flynn, Gary McGrath, Martin Burke, Kieran Doyle, Jason Griffin, Fergal Spillane, Carl O Sullivan, Mikey Griffin (Capt.), Kevin Jones. Subs: Aidan Cremin for Carl O Sullivan; Joe McAuliffe, Derry O Sullivan, Sean O Sullivan, Kealon O Sullivan, Declan Byrne, Mike Lawlor, Liam Barton, Kevin Teahan, John O Mahony (Cromane), Tommy Griffin (Keel).

Ref: Maurice O Sullivan (Ballyheigue).

 

Co. U-16 Championship Div. 1

That competition was played on a league basis with six teams – Austin Stacks, John Mitchels, Legion, Currow, Laune Rangers and Kerins O Rahillys. The top four teams, after the preliminary rounds, contested the semi-finals. Coach/Trainer – Jerome Conway.

 

Rd. 1 on Mon. 3^rd July at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 3-13; Kerins O Rahilly’s 1-7.

That was a very good team performance. Deserving of special mention were Carl O Sullivan, Kevin Jones and Jason Griffin. O Rahilly’s showed very little discipline in their play and behaviour and that came from their mentors. Derry O Sullivan, Mikey Griffin and Raymond O Sullivan got the goals. Carl O Sullivan kicked some great points. Karl Griffin and Sean O Sullivan played very well in defence.

Laune Rangers: Michael Cahillane, Sean O Sullivan, Paudie Russell, James Hurley, Karl Griffin, Pat Cahill, Kealon O Sullivan, Colm Joy, Mike Hassett, Carl O Sullivan, Jason Griffin, Derry O Sullivan, Raymond O Sullivan, Mikey Griffin (capt.), Kevin Jone. Subs: Kieran Clifford for R. O Sullivan; Nicholas Bainton, James Murphy.

Ref: Michael Murphy (Milltown).

 

Rd. 2 on Wed. 5^th July at Direen: Legion 2-8; Laune Rangers 3-12.

That was a very good performance. Kevin Jones was our best player. Midfield was adequate. Mikey Griffin grafted very hard. All the backs acquitted themselves well. James Hurley, though playing out of position, tried hard.

Laune Rangers: Michael Cahillane, Sean O Sullivan, Paudie Russell, Kieran Clifford, Karl Griffin, Pat Cahill, Kealon O Sullivan, Colm Joy, Mike Hassett (0-1), Mikey Griffin, James Hurley, Derry O Sullivan (0-3), Raymond O Sullivan (1-0), Carl O Sullivan (0-3), Kevin Jones (2-5). Subs: Nicholas Bainton, James Murphy. Missing – Jason Griffin (inj.).

Ref: Dan Kelliher (Dr. Crokes).

 

Rd. 3 on Wed. 12^th July at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 4-5; John Mitchels 3-8.

That was a good result, considering the calibre of people that were missing. Nevertheless, Rangers’ play was peppered with mistakes. Michael Cahillane was co-responsible for the first goal but saved a certain goal in the second half. He also caused a penalty, which the opposition spurned. Sean O Sullivan was co-responsible for the first goal. Nevertheless, he recovered and played a good game. Paudie Russell played well but gave his man too much room. The half-back line and Kieran Clifford, though lacking experience, played well. Mikey Griffin was the better of our midfielders, though a mistake by him led to the goal, which brought them back into the game. He scored a penalty. Colm Joy  tried hard. Eamonn Foley was very raw and needed coaching – he had been drafted onto the panel together with a few others of the U-14 team. James Hurley tried hard, got a great goal but he was really a back. Derry O Sullivan played well, winning good possession, running hard and harassing. He got a very good goal. Raymond O Sullivan contributed very little to the team – it seemed that he was not strong enough. Carl O Sullivan was the hub of the attack and played great stuff. He got some classic points and, also, set up good scores. Kevin Jones, though shipping punishment, played well, notching a great goal. The Championship was between Mitchels, Legion and Laune Rangers.

Laune Rangers: Michael Cahillane, Sean O Sullivan, Paudie Russell, Kieran Clifford, Karl Griffin, Pat Cahill, Kealon O Sullivan, Colm Joy, Mikey Griffin, Eamonn Foley, James Hurley, Derry O Sullivan, Raymond O Sullivan, Carl O Sullivan, Kevin Jones. Subs: Nicholas Bainton, James Murphy, Eamonn Kissane, Jerry O Brien, Redmond Fitzgerald, Pat O Keeffe. Missing – Jason Griffin (inj.), Mike Hassett (Cork).

Ref: Michael Healy (Cromane).

 

Rd. 4 on Wed. 19^th July at Connolly Park: Austin Stacks 2-2; Laune Rangers 5-14.

When one looked at the margin of victory, it seemed strange to say that Rangers played badly, but such was the case, particularly in the first half. They struggled at midfield, Paudie Russel made two bad mistakes, which led to goals and the forwards did not click. Kevin Jones seemed to have a bee in his bonnet and hardly contributed at all. Most of this changed in the second half, when Mikey Griffin moved to midfield, where he worked very hard. The forwards got their act together and they rocketed in five goals per C. O Sullivan (2), D. O Sullivan, K. Jones and J. Griffin. James Hurley received an injury in the first half and eventually had to be replaced in the second half.

Laune Rangers: Michael Cahillane, Sean O Sullivan, Paudie Russell, James Hurley, Karl Griffin, Pat Cahill, Kealon O Sulivan, Colm Joy, Mike Hassett, Mikey Griffin, Jason Griffin, Derry O Sullivan, Kieran Clifford, Carl O Sullivan, Kevin Jones. Subs: Raymond O Sullivan for K. Clifford; Kieran Clifford for J. Hurley (inj.); Eamonn Foley for J. Griffin; Nicholas Bainton, Eamonn Kissane, James Murphy, Pat O Keffe, Redmond Fitzgerald, Jerry O Brien.

Ref: Jerry Gleeson (John Mitchels).

 

Rd. 5 on Wed. 26^th July at Currow: Currow 1-2; Laune Rangers 9-10.

Rangers’ forwards played well, getting some great goals. Midfield was slow to start but eventually they played well. The backs were loose and only Paudie Russell played to his potential. Currow scored their goal from a high kick from 40 yds., which deceived the goalkeeper. Rangers were then in the Co. Semi-Final.

Laune Rangers: Michael Cahillane, Sean O Sullivan, Paudie Russell, James Hurley, Karl Griffin, Pat Cahill, Kealon O Sullivan, Colm Joy, Mike Hassett, Derry O Sullivan, Jason Griffin, Eamonn Foley, Mikey Griffin, Carl O Sullivan, Kevin Jones. Subs: Raymond O Sullivan for K. Jones; Kieran Clifford for J. Hurley; Redmond Fitzgerald for K. O Sullivan; Jerry O Brien for J. Griffin; James Murphy, Nicholas Bainton. Pat O Keeffe played with Currow, as they had only 14 players.

 

Semi-Final on Wed. 9^th Aug. at Currow: Laune Rangers 2-6; Austin Stacks 1-6.

Laune Rangers made heavy work of winning that game. Squanderamania was the order of the day in the first half. After two minutes, Mike Griffin drove a penalty wide. Immediately afterwards, Jason missed two chances of points. K. Jones opened the scoring with a point. Carl O Sullivan added number two. However, he then elected to shoot for a goal from 20m with Derry O Sullivan available for the pass. Kevin Jones was put through but drove wide with only the goalie to beat. Colm Joy’s long-range effort hit the post with the goalie beaten. Carl O Sullivan got a great goal. Jason Griffin and Derry O Sullivan added points. The halftime score was 1-4 to 0-4 in the Killorglin side’s favour. On the resumption, Carl O Sullivan got another point. Thereafter, Paudie Russell had to defend supremely to keep Stacks at bay as Rangers faded at midfield. Mikey Griffin improved matters when he moved there. Derry O Sullivan punched a goal after a goalmouth scramble. At the other end, Stacks were awarded a penalty, which Michael Cahillane saved brilliantly. He also made a very good save later. Great work by the winners’ backs kept the opposition at bay with Pat Cahill, Paudie Russell, James Hurley and Sean O Sullivan particularly to the fore. Mike Hassett was very good at midfield.

Laune Rangers: Michael Cahillane, Sean O Sullivan, Paudie Russell, James Hurley, Karl Griffin, Pat Cahill, Kealon O Sullivan, Colm Joy, Mike Hassett, Mikey Griffin, Jason Griffin, Derry O Sullivan, Eamonn Foley, Carl O Sullivan, Kevin Jones. Subs: John Foley for E. Foley; Jerry O Brien, Redmond Fitzgerald, Nicholas Bainton, Eamonn Kissane, James Murphy, Kieran Clifford.

Ref: Dan O Sullivan (Currow).

 

Final on Mon. 21^st Aug. at Castleisland: John Mitchels 1-6; Laune Rangers 1-3.

Mitchels elected to play against a strong wind in the first half. Rangers got off to a great start with a point by Jason Griffin and a goal by Mikey Griffin. They replied with a pointed free but Mike Hassett pointed to stretch the lead. Then Mitchels were awarded a penalty, which they scored. Carl O Sullivan pointed a free after Kevin Jones was fouled. In that half, Mike Hassett played well as did Mikey Griffin and Jason Griffin. At halftime the Killorglin boys led by 1-3 to 1-1. Unfortunately, they failed to score in the second half. They were well beaten at midfield. The halfback line played very well, especially Pat Cahill and Kealon O Sullivan. Paudie Russell played very well. The corner backs were too slow. Rangers did create a few chances. Carl O Sullivan, who disappointed throughout, fielded well but blazed wide with only the goalie to beat. Then with eight minutes left to play and two points in arrears, Rangers were awarded a penalty when Mikey Griffin was grounded. Jason Griffin blazed wide. Kevin Jones tried to make amends and should have been awarded a free but the referee thought otherwise.

Laune Rangers: Michael Cahillane, Sean O Sullivan, Paudie Russell, James Hurley, Karl Griffin, Pat Cahill, Kealon O Sullivan, Colm Joy, Mike Hassett (0-1), Mikey Griffin (capt.)1-0, Jason Griffin (0-1), Derry O Sullivan, Eamonn Foley, Carl O Sullivan (0-1, free), Kevin Jones. Subs: Raymond O Sullivan, Kieran Clifford, Pat O Keeffe, Jerry O Brien, Redmond Fitzgerald, Eamonn Kissane, James Murphy.

Ref: Tom McCarthy (Desmonds).

 

Mid-Kerry U-16 Championship

That competition was organised on a league basis, with the top team, after the preliminary rounds, reaching the final and the next two playing in the semi-final.  Glenbeigh/Glencar, Cromane and Keel were allowed to play players who were six months older than sixteen years.

 

Rd. 1 on Mon. 3^rd April at Beaufort: Beaufort 2-4; Laune Rangers 7-9.

That was a very good performance. The foundation for victory was laid at midfield where Colm Joy blotted out Gary McGrath and Mike Hassett worked tirelessly. The forwards combined well. Jason Griffin was great. Derry O Sullivan got three goals but he must learn to release the ball quicker. Kevin Jones played very well. All the forwards played their parts well. In defence, Pat Cahill and Paudie Russell were outstanding, but the others would have to sharpen up.

Laune Rangers: Declan Byrne, Sean O Sullivan, Michael Cahillane, Pat Cahill, James Hurley, Paudie Russell, Karl Griffin, Colm Joy (capt.), Mike Hassett, Jason Griffin, John Foley, Derry O Sullivan, Mikey Griffin, Carl O Sullivan, Kevin Jones. Subs: Kealon O Sullivan for M. Cahillane; John O Riordan, Adrian O Connor, Nicholas Bainton, James Murphy, Eamonn Kissane.

Ref: Johnny Sheehan (Keel).

 

Rd. 2 on Mon. 10^th April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 14-8; Glenbeigh/Glencar 0-1.

Glenbeigh were both disorganised and indisciplined despite being allowed to play players who were six months overage.

Laune Rangers: Michael Cahillane, Sean O Sullivan, Paudie Russell, Karl Griffin, Declan Byrne, Pat Cahill, Kealon O Sullivan, Colm Joy, Mike Hassett, Jason Griffin, John Fley, Derry O Sullivan, Mikey Griffin, Carl O Sullivan, Kevin Jones. Subs: Eamonn Kissane, Adrian O Connor, James Murphy, Raymond O Sullivan (all played).

Ref: Michael Healy (Cromane).

 

Rd.3 on Mon. 17^th April at Cromane: Cromane 1-1; Laune Rangers 2-16.

Rangers played well at times but lacked cohesion all too often. Carl O Sullivan was a revelation at full-forward. Mike Hassett was improving with every game and excelled in that game. Colm Joy also played well. All the backs shone in their turn with Pat Cahill and Kealon O Sullivan particularly good.

Laune Rangers: Michael Cahillane, Sean O Sullivan, Paudie Russell, James Hurley, Karl Griffin, Pat Cahill, Kealon O Sullivan, Colm Joy, Mike Hassett (0-3), Declan Byrne (0-1), John Foley, Derry O Sullivan (0-2), Mikey Griffin (0-1), Carl O Sullivan (2-8), Raymond O Sullivan (0-1). Subs: John O Riordan for D. O Sullivan; Joe O Sullivan for R. O Sullivan, Nicholas Bainton, Eamonn Kissane. Missing – Kevin Jones (inj.) and Jason Griffin (sick).

Ref: Jerome Conway (Laune Rangers) – as the appointed referee failed to show.

 

Rd. 4 on Mon. 24^th April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers w.o from Keel.

Keel failed to appear for that game.

 

Rd. 5 on Mon. 1^st May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 10-9; Milltown/Castlemaine 1-1.

That was a very good performance. The team was shaping well.

Laune Rangers: Ml. Cahillane, Sean O Sullivan, Paudie Russell, James Hurley, Karl Griffin, Declan Byrne, Kealon O Sullivan, Colm Joy, Mike Hassett, Jason Griffin (0-5), John Foley, Derry O Sullivan (2-0), Mikey Griffin (1-1), Carl O Sullivan (2-0), Kevin Jones (4-2). Subs: Raymond O Sullivan (1-1), John O Riordan, Eamonn Kissane, James Murphy, Adrian O Connor (all played). Missing – Pat Cahill (sick).

Ref: Michael Murphy (Milltown).

 

Final on Mon. 29^th May at Milltown: Laune Rangers 8-16; Beaufort 1-7.

A great team performance! The fullback line was rock solid – Paudie was outstanding. The half-back line was a little unsteady but recovered in the second half. Rangers held sway at midfield – Colm Joy had the game of his life, with Mike Hassett working tirelessly. All the forwards got in on the scoring act. Michael Cahillane was adequate in goals. Rangers led by 4-6 to 0-4 at halftime.

Laune Rangers: Michael Cahillane, Sean O Sullivan, Paudie Russell, James Hurley, Karl Griffin, Pat Cahill, Kealon O Sullivan, Colm Joy (capt.), Mike Hassett, Jason Griffin (0-3), Declan Byrne (2-3), Derry O Sullivan, Carl O Sullivan (1-2), Mikey Griffin (3-3), Kevin Jones (2-4). Subs: Raymond O Sullivan (0-1) for D. O Sullivan; Kieran Clifford for K. O Sullivan; John O Riordan for D. Byrne; Eamonn Kissane, James Murphy, Nicholas Bainton, Adrain (Andy) O Connor.

Ref: Michael Murphy (Milltown).

Co. U-14 Football Championship Div. 1

This competition was run on a league basis with six teams, Kerins O Rahillys, Austin Stacks, Gaeltacht, John Mitchels, Dr. Crokes and Laune Rangers. The top four teams, after the preliminary rounds, contested the semi-finals. Trainers/Coaches – Pat Pigott and John Clifford.

 

Rd. 1 on Wed. 5^th April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 3-9; Dr. Crokes 1-15.

Talk about pulling a game out of the fire! Tony O Sullivan got a goal with the last kick of the game to equalise. At one stage of the game Rangers were 8 points in arrears. The score at halftime was 0-8 to 0-6 in favour of the visitors. Mark Conway had an outstanding game at corner-back. Rory Corkery also played very well. The other backs were suspect. Jerry O Brien had a very good first half but faded. Eamonn Foley played very well. Tony O Sullivan had the game of his life, scoring two goals. Liam Hassett also played well. Rangers had a long way to go if they were to retain the U-14 Co. Championship. However, that was a good result, especially when one bore in mind that two years previously Crokes had beaten that team in the Co. U-12 Championship on the score of 4-14 to 1-5.

Laune Rangers: Derry O Donoghue, Mark Conway, Thomas Walsh, John Purcell, Alan O Sullivan (Tullig), Redmond Fitzgerald (capt.), Rory Corkery, Jerry O Brien, Pat O Keeffe, Stephen Foley, Liam Hassett, Eamonn Foley, Fiachra O Donoghue, Tony O Sullivan, Francis O Sullivan. Subs: Donncha Curran for F. O Donoghue; Brian O Neill, Colm Conway, Cathal Crowley, Stephen Clifford, Anthony Foley.

Ref: John Griffin (Listry).

 

Rd. 2 on Wed. 12^th April at Mitchel’s Pitch: John Mitchels 2-4; Laune Rangers 2-8.

That was an excellent win considering that Rangers were without the injured Liam Hassett. Donncha Curran scored a goal and Mitchels conceded an own goal. Jerry O Brien and Eamonn Foley were very good. Thomas Walsh and Mark Conway played very well. In fact the whole team played very well.

Laune Rangers: Derry O Donoghue, Mark Conway, Thomas Walsh, John Purcell, Ronan Curtayne, Redmond Fitzgerald, Rory Corkery, Jerry O Brien, Eamonn Foley, Stephen Foley, Pat O Keeffe, Francis O Sullivan, Glenn Evans, Tony O Sullivan, Donncha Curran. Subs: Fiachra O Donoghue, Cathal Crowley, Colm Conway, Stephen Clifford, Anthony Foley, Shane Diggin, John Cronin.

 

Rd. 3 on Wed. 19^th April at Strand Road: Kerins O Rahilly’s 0-9; Laune Rangers 1-4.

Team & Scorers: Ronan Curtayne, Mark Conway, Thomas Walsh, John Purcell, Alan O Sullivan (Tullig), Redmond Fitzgerald, Rory Corkery, Jerry O Brien(0-1), Eamonn Foley(0-3), Stephen Foley, Pat O Keeffe, Francis O Sullivan, Glenn Evans(1-0), Tony O Sullivan,   Donncha Curran. Subs: Fiachra O Donoghue, Stephen Clifford, Colm Conway, Cathal Crowley, Anthony Foley, Shane Diggin.

 

Rd. 4 on Sat. 29^th April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 1-8; Gaeltacht 2-12.

Gaeltacht looked very good. Rangers needed to either draw with or beat Stacks in order to qualify for the semi-final.

Laune Rangers: Derry O Donoghue, Mark Conway, Thomas Walsh, John Purcell, Ronan Curtayne, Redmond Fitzgerald, Rory Corkery, Jerry O Brien, Eamonn Foley, Liam Hassett, Pat O Keeffe, Francis O Sullivan, Glenn Evans, Tony O Sullivan, Donncha Curran. Subs: Alan O Sullivan (Tullig) for R. Curtayne; Stephen Foley for G. Evans; Colm Conway for T. O Sullivan.

Ref: Bart Moriarty (Laune Rangers) as the appointed referee failed to show up and Gaeltacht agreed to him.

 

Rd. 5 on Wed. 3^rd May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 3-7; Austin Stacks 1-3.

That was a very good performance – the best from that team so far that year. Jerry O Brien and Eamonn Foley were both playing very good football.

Laune Rangers: Derry O Donoghue, Mark Conway, Thomas Walsh, John Purcell, Ronan Curtayne, Redmond Fitzgerald, Alan O Sullivan, Jerry O Brien(0-2), Eamonn Foley(2-1), Liam Hassett(0-2), Pat O Keeffe(1-1), Francis O Sullivan, Glenn Evans(0-1), Tony O Sullivan, Donncha Curran. Subs: Stephen Foley for D. Curran; Fiachra O Donoghue, Cathal Crowley, Colm Conway, Anthony Foley, Stephen Clifford, Brian O Neill.

Ref: Michael Murphy (Milltown).

 

Semi-Final on Sun. 14^th May at Castleisland: Laune Rangers 2-6; Kerins O Rahilly’s 2-3.

That was a really great performance from a team of no-hopers. They showed great spirit and they were the better team on the night. Rangers elected to play with the aid of a strong wind in the first half and led 1-4 to 0-0 at halftime. Jerry O Brien and Eamonn Foley dominated midfield. Pat O Keeffe had the game of his life. Ronan Curtayne played out of his skin. Rory Corkery was a tower of strength and Redmond Fitzgerald improved when he was switched to fullback, Derry O Donoghue also benefitted from that move. Liam Hassett had a great game. Indeed the whole team were heroes as they persevered even when O Rahilly’s came within two points with ten minutes to go.

Laune Rangers: Glenn Evans, Mark Conway, Derry O Donoghue, John Purcell, Alan O Sullivan, Redmond Fitzgerald, Rory Corkery, Jerry O Brien, Eamonn Foley, Ronan Curtayne, Pat O Keeffe, Francis O Sullivan, Donncha Curran, Tony O Sullivan, Liam Hassett. Subs: Fiachra O Donoghue for F. O Sullivan (inj.), Cathal Crowley, Stephen Clifford, Shane Diggin, Colm Conway, Anthony Foley. Stephen Foley and Brian O Neill failed to travel. Thomas Walsh was injured.

Ref: Tom McCarthy (Desmonds) – good.

 

Final on Sun. 28^th May at Aunascaul; Gaeltacht 3-9; Laune Rangers 0-5.

The better team won. Rangers’ midfield was well beaten. The only backs to play well were Alan O Sullivan, Redmond Fitzgerald and Rory Corkery. Eamonn Foley did his best but Rangers were well beaten in the forward line. A report in the paper said ‘Gaeltacht opted to play against a strong breeze in the first half and the tactic worked thanks to great defensive work by their backs and excellent midfield play. The result was that they were on level terms at the interval – 0-3 each. Laune Rangers, to their credit, fought bravely in the second half, but they could not contain the Gaeltacht side inspired by Darragh Ó Cinnéide and Dara Ó Sé.

Team: Derry O Donoghue, Mark Conway, Thomas Walsh, John Purcell, Alan O Sullivan, Redmond Fitzgerald (Capt.), Rory Corkery, Jerry O Brien, Eamonn Foley, Stephen Foley, Pat O Keeffe, Ronan Curtayne, Glenn Evans, Tony O Sullivan, Liam Hassett. Subs: Fiachra O Donoghue for S. Foley; Donncha Curran for G. Evans; Cathal Crowley, Stephen Clifford, Colm Conway, Shane Diggin, Brian O Neill. Francis O Sullivan was injured.

Gaeltacht: Cathal Ó Dúbhda, Sean Ó Conchubhair, Dara Ó Sé, Ciarán Ó Flatharta, Páidí Ó Dálaigh, Micheál Ó Murchú, Caoimíin Ó Piogóid, Gearóid Feirtéir, Antaine Ó Dubháin, Pádraig Ó Cinnéide, Darragh Ó Cinnéide, Daithí Ó Sé, Ciarán Ó Coileáin (capt.), Aengus Ó Cinnéide, Breandán Mac Gearailt. Subs: Antaine de Brún, Labhrás Ó Cuarnáin, Deaglán Ó Cinnéide, Cian Ó Cíobháin.

Ref: Jerry Gleeson (John Mitchels).

 

Co. U-14B Championship Div. 7

Coach – Pierce Prendiville. There were 8 teams in the competition and they were divided into two groups.

Group A: Dr. Crokes ‘B’, Kerins O Rahillys ‘B’, Gaeltacht ‘B’ and Laune Rangers ‘B’.

Group B: Legion ‘B’, Listowel ‘B’, Austin Stacks ‘B’ and Kerins O Rahillys ‘C’.

 

Rd. 1 on Sat. 15^th April at Strand Road: Kerins O Rahilly’s ‘B’ 5-15; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 2-3.

Michael Francis Russell and John Sheehan played well.

Laune Rangers: Eamonn Clifford, Colm Conway, Stephen Clifford, Joe Hayes, John Sheehan, Cathal Crowley, Brian Gannon, Brian O Neill, Aidan Leahy, Fiachra O Donoghue, Anthony Foley (capt.), Michael F. Russell, Shane Diggin, Brendan O Doherty, Gerard Murphy. Sub: John O Sullivan for G. Murphy.

Ref: Jerome Conway – as the appointed referee failed to show up.

 

Rd. 3 on Sat. 22^nd April at Killarney: Dr. Crokes ‘B’ defeated Laune Rangers ‘B’.

 

Rd. 2 on Sat. 29^th April at Killorglin at 2.30pm: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 5-0; Gaeltacht ‘B’ 3-4.

The game was played at 14-a-side.

Laune Rangers: Anthony Foley, Mark Conway, Stephen Clifford, John Purcell, Brian O Neill, Cathal Crowley, Rory Corkery, Francis O Sullivan, Donncha Curran, Glenn Evans, Shane Diggin, Liam Fitzgerald, Tony O Sullivan, Colm Conway.

Ref: Bart Moriarty (Laune Rangers).

 

Mid-Kerry U-14 Championship

That competition was played on a league basis between the six teams. The top team in the league, after the preliminary rounds, went into the final, while the second and third teams played in the semi-final.

Trainers/Coaches – Pat Pigott and John Clifford.

 

Rd. 3 on Sat. 1^st April at Cromane: Cromane 1-1; Laune Rangers 10-10.

Team: Tony O Sullivan, Mark Conway, Thomas Walsh, Derry O Donoghue, Alan O Sulivan, Redmond Fitzgerald, Rory Corkery, Jerry O Brien, Pat O Keeffe, Stephen Foley, Eamonn Foley, Francis O Sullivan (Capt.), Fiachra O Donoghue, Liam Hassett, Glenn Evans. Subs: Donncha Curran, Turlough Byrnes, Cathal Crowley, John Purcell, Brian O Neill, Stephen Clifford, Anthony, Foley, Colm Conway (all played).

Ref: Gerald O Connor (Glenbeigh).

 

Rd. 4 on Mon. 8^th May at Beaufort: Beaufort 0-7; Laune Rangers 2-9.

Rangers began sluggishly and really only played properly in the final twenty minutes. Rory Corkery, Jerry O Brien, Eamonn Foley, Ronan Curtayne, Redmond Fitzgerald, Pat O Keeffe, Mark Conway and LiamHassett played well. Donncha Curran and Liam Hassett got the goals.

Laune Rangers: Derry O Donoghue, Mark Conway, Thomas Walsh, John Purcell, Alan O Sullivan, Redmond Fitzgerald, Rory Corkery, Jerry O Brien, Eamonn Foley, Liam Hassett, Pat O Keeffe, Francis O Sullivan, Glenn Evans, Tony O Sullivan, Ronan Curtayne. Subs: Donncha Curran for G. Evans; Stephen Foley for T. O Sullivan, Fiachra O Donoghue, Anthony Foley, Colm Conway, Cathal Crowley, Stephen Clifford, Brian O Neill.

Ref: Michael Murphy (Milltown).

 

Rd. 5 on Mon. 15^th May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers v Keel.

Keel rang to say that they would not be travelling.

 

Rd. 2 on Mon. 22^nd May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers v Glenbeigh/Glencar.

Glenbeigh/Glencar failed to show up for the game.

 

Rd. 1 on Tues. 30^th May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers v Milltown/Castlemaine

Milltown/Castlemaine failed to show up.

 

Final on Mon. 19^th June at Keel: Laune Rangers 0-13; Beaufort 1-8.

That was an outstanding game of football. Very little separated the teams, though Rangers missed many chances, due to poor teamwork. Thomas Walsh and Rory Corkery were easily the best backs throughout. Derry O Donoghue played well though he was at fault for the goal, when he batted the ball out to the corner forward. Eamonn Foley had a great game, though his kicking was poor. Of the forwards, Pat O Keeffe and Ronan Curtayne were the best, though the others supported them well.

Laune Rangers: Derry O Donoghue, Mark Conway, Thomas Walsh, John Purcell, Alan O Sullivan, Redmond Fitzgerald, Rory Corkery, Jerry O Brien, Eamonn Foley, Liam Hassett, Pat O Keeffe, Ronan Curtayne, Fiachra O Donoghue, Tony O Sullivan, Francis O Sullivan (capt.). Subs: Donncha Curran for J. Purcell; Stephen Foley, Turlough Byrnes, Anthony Foley, Colm Conway, Shane Diggin, Stephen Clifford, Liam Fitzgerald.

Ref: Jim Fox Foley (Keel).

 

Co. U-12 Football Championship

That competition was played on a league basis with six teams – Gaeltacht, John Mitchels, Austin Stacks, Dr. Crokes, Kerins O Rahillys and Laune Rangers. The top four teams after the preliminary rounds would contest the semi-finals. Trainers/Coaches – Patsy Joy and Bertie Houlihan.

 

Rd. 1 on Wed. 10^th May at Strand Road: Kerins O Rahilly’s 1-4; Laune Rangers 2-8.

That was a very good performance. David Lynch scored 2-1. Joe Hayes had the game of his life.

Laune Rangers: Michael Hurley, Joe Hayes, Nelius Lynch, Pat Leahy, Paudie Finnegan, John Sheehan Fergal O Brien, Alan O Sullivan, Brian Gannon, John O Sullivan, Michael F. Russell (capt.), Johnny Lynch, David Lynch, Nigel Corkery, Pa O Sullivan. Subs: Dermot Murphy for P. O Sullivan; Shane Harmon, Paul O Brien, Owen O Connell, Maurice Sheehan.

 

Rd. 2 on Wed. 17^th May at Killarney: Dr. Crokes 0-3; Laune Rangers 5-22.

That team was looking good.

Laune Rangers: Michael Hurley, Joe hayes, Nelius Lynch, Pat leahy, Paudie Finnegan, John Sheehan, Fergal O Brien, Alan O Sullivan, Brian Gannon, John O Sullivan, Michael F. Russell, Johnny Lynch, David Lynch, Nigel Corkery, Pa O Sullivan. Subs: Dermot Murphy, Shane Harmon, Owen O Connell, Maurice Sheehan (all played).

 

Rd.3 on Tues. 23^rd May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers w/o; John Mitchels scr.

John Mitchels failed to show up. The game had been brought forward from Wed., by agreement, as Glounaguillagh N.S. was going to France.

 

Rd. 4 on Wed. 31^st May at Gallerus: Gaeltacht 1-5; Laune Rangers 1-17.

That was a great performance. The midfielders were great, particularly in the second half. Brian Gannon scored 4 points. Johnny Lynch was excellent. Pa O Sullivan scored the goal and David Lynch scored 3 points.

Laune Rangers: Michael Hurley, Joe Hayes, Nelius Lynch, Pat Leahy, Paudie Finnegan, John Sheehan, Fergal O Brien, Alan O Sullivan, Brian Gannon, John O Sullivan, Michael F. Russell, Johnny Lynch, David Lynch, Nigel Corkery, Pa O Sullivan. Subs: Dermot Murphy, Paul O Brien, Shane Harmon, Maurice Sheehan, Owen O Connell, Kevin O Connor.

 

Rd. 5 on Wed. 7^th June at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 2-11; Austin Stacks 3-9.

According to Patsy Joy, Rangers played badly but still could have won. He was confident that they would win the championship, as they seemed to have the wherewithal.

Laune Rangers: Michael Hurley, Joe Hayes, Nelius Lynch, Pat Leahy, Fergal o Brien, John Sheehan, Paudie Finnegan, Alan O Sullivan, Brian Gannon, John O Sullivan, Michael F. Russell, Johnny Lynch, David Lynch, Nigel Corkery, Pa O Sullivan. Subs: Dermot Murphy, Paul O Brien, Maurice Sheehan, Owen o Connell, Shane Harmon, Kevin O Connor, Timothy McGillycuddy.

Ref: Michael O Sullivan (Beaufort).

 

Semi-Final on Fri. 16^th June at Castleisland: Laune Rangers 3-15; Austin Stacks 0-3.

That was an outstanding performance. Laune Rangers annihilated the opposition. The backs were marvellous. They dominated midfield, while the forwards were dynamic. David Lynch scored a goal and Pa O Sullivan got two. All the other forwards scored also. Patsy Joy and Bertie Bertie were delighted and reckoned that that was the best U-12 team to date.

Team: Michael Hurley, Joe Hayes, Nelius Lynch, Pat Leahy, Fergal O Brien, John Sheehan, Paudie Finnegan, Alan O Sullivan, Brian Gannon, John O Sullivan, Michael F. Russell, Johnny lynch, David Lynch, Nigel Corkery, Pa O Sulivan. Subs: Dermot Murphy for N. Corkery; Shane Harmon, Tommy McGillycuddy, Maurice Sheehan, Paul O Brien, Kevin O Connor.

Ref: Tom McCarthy (Desmonds).

 

Final on Thurs. 22^nd June at Farranfore: Laune Rangers 3-14; Kerins O Rahilly’s 0-4.

A super performance! The best U-12 team we ever had! Brian Gannon and Mike F. Russell excelled, while Fergal O Brien also played exceptionally well. Michael Hurley was sound. All the backs played very well. Midfield dominated throughout, while the forwards worked the ball wonderfully.

Laune Rangers: Michael Hurley, Joe Hayes, Nelius Lynch, Pat Leahy, Fergal O Brien, John Sheehan, Paudie Finnegan, Alan O Sullivan, Brian Gannon, John O Sullivan, Michael F. Russell (capt.), Johnny Lynch, David Lynch, Nigel Corkery, Pa O Sullivan. Subs: Dermot Murphy for N. Corkery; Shane Harmon for P. O Sulivan; Paul O Brien, Maurice Sheehan, Timmy McGillycuddy, Kevin O Connor.

Ref: Murt Scott (Firies).

 

Co. U-12B Football Championship Div. 7

 

Group ‘B’: Laune Rangers ‘B’, Legion ‘B’ and Dr. Crokes ‘B’.

Group ‘A’: Austin Stacks ‘B’, Kerins O Rahillys ‘B’, Kerins O Rahillys ‘C’ and Na Gaeil ‘B’.

 

Laune Rangers ‘B’ defeated both Legion ‘B’ and Dr. Crokes ‘B’ in the preliminary rounds.

Semi-final on Sat. 27^th June at Milltown: Austin Stacks ‘B’ 5-8; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 1-7.

 

Mid-Kerry U-12 Football Championship

That competition was run on a league basis between the six teams. The top team in the league after the preliminary rounds went into the final, while the second and third teams played in the semi-final.

 

Rd. 1 on Tues. 4^th July at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 9-15; Cromane 1-2.

Team: Michael Hurley, Joe Hayes, Nelius Lynch, Dermot Murphy, Fergal O Brien, John Sheehan, Paudie Finnegan, Alan O Sullivan, Pat Leahy, John O Sullivan, Michael F. Russell, Johnny Lynch, David Lynch, Nigel Corkery, Pa O Sullivan. Subs: Shane Harmon, Paul O Brien, Maurice Sheehan, Kevin O Connor, Seamus Costello, Noel Purcell, Anthony Reen (all played).

Ref: Bertie Houlihan (Laune Rangers), as the appointed referee failed to attand.

 

Rd. 2 on Mon. 10^th July at Milltown: Milltown/Castlemaine 1-2; Laune Rangers 4-23.

Team: Michael Hurley, Joe Hayes, Nelius Lynch, Pat Leahy, Dermot Murphy, John Sheehan, Paudie Finnegan, Alan O Sullivan, Fergal O Brien, John O Sullivan, Michael F. Russell, Johnny Lynch, David Lynch, Nigel Corkery, Pat O Sullivan. Subs: Shane Harmon, Paul O Brien, Maurice Sheehan, Seamus Costello, Kevin O Connor, Noel Purcell, Anthony Reen. (all played).

Ref: Bertie Houlihan (Laune Rangers), as the appointed referee failed to attend.

 

Rd. 3 on Mon. 17^th July at Killorglin: Laune Rangers v Keel.

Keel rang to say that they would not be fulfilling the fixture.

 

Rd. 4 on Mon. 24^th July at Killorglin: Laune Ranegrs 2-15; Glenbeigh/Glencar 2-2.

Team: Michael Hurley, Joe Hayes, Nelius Lynch, Pat leahy, Dermot Murphy, John Sheehan, Paudie Finnegan, Alan O Sullivan, Fergal O Brien, John O Sullivan, Johnny Lynch, Shane Harmon, David Lynch, Nigel Corkery, Pa O Sullivan. Subs: Paul O Brien for N. Corkery; Anthony Reen, Maurice Sheehan, Kevin O Connor, Seamus Costello, Noel Purcell. Missing – Michael F. Russell & Brian Gannon.

Ref: Jimmy Healy (Glenbeigh) – good.

 

Rd. 5 on Mon. 31^st July at Beaufort: Beaufort 2-4; Laune Rangers 5-22.

Team: Michael Hurley, Joe Hayes, Nelius Lynch, Pat Leahy, Fergal O Brien, John Sheehan, Paudie Finnegan, Alan O Sullivan, Brian Gannon, John O Sullivan, Michael F. Russell, Johnny Lynch, David Lynch, Nigel Corkery, Pa O Sullivan. Subs: Dermot Murphy, Shane Harmon, Anthony Reen, Paul O Brien, Maurice Sheehan, Seamus Costello, Kevin O Connor, Noel Purcell. ( all played).

Ref: Bertie Houlihan (Laune Rangers), as the Cromane referee failed to attend.

 

Final on Tues. 22^nd Aug. at Cromane: Laune Rangers 5-13; Glenbeigh/Glencar 0-5.

Patsy Joy and Bertie Houlihan had achieved the double of County and Mid-Kerry U-12 Championships. Glenbeigh had the making of a good team, even if the players were a little raw. Alan O Sullivan played well. Brian Gannon scored two goals. Michael F. Russell got two goals and Pa O Sullivan got the fifth. Nelius Lynch and Pat Leahy were brilliant. Joe Hayes and Paudie Finnegan were very good. David Lynch and Nigel Corkery played well. Shane Harmon played well when he came on as a substitute.

Tim Foley, Keel (Chairman of Mid-Kerry Bord na nOg in 1989) presented the trophy to the team captain, Michael Francis Russell.

Team: Michael Hurley, Joe Hayes, Nelius Lynch, Pat Leahy, Fergal O Brien, John Sheehan, Paudie Finnegan, Alan O Sullivan, Brian Gannon, John O Sullivan, Michael F. Russell(Capt), Johnny Lynch, David Lynch, Nigel Corkery, Pa O Sullivan. Subs: Dermot Murphy, Shane Harmon, Paul O Brien, Podge Foley (all played), Anthony Reen, Maurice Sheehan, Seamus Costello, Tony Lyons, Paul Russell, Noel Purcell, Florence McCarthy.

Ref: Michael Healy (Cromane).

 

U-12 Football Challenge Game

 

On Sun. 23^rd April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 2-8; Oliver Plunkett’s 0-3

St. Oliver Plunkett’s, Dublin, visited Killorglin for the weekend, through an acquaintance of Siobhan Gallagher. The Laune Rangers lads played very well for the time of the year. Denis Carr and Bob Biddlecomb were in charge of the visiting team. The boys who kept guests were: Fergal O Brien (2), Enda Clifford (2), Anthony Reen (1), Shane Harmon (1), Brendan Fitzgerald (1), Michael F. Russell (1), Joe Hayes (1), Alan O Sullivan (1), Paudie Finnegan (1), Brian Gannon (1), Dermot Murphy (1), Bertie Houlihan (3).

Team: Michael Hurley, Joe Hayes, Nelius Lynch, Pat Leahy, Paudie Finnegan, John Sheehan, Fergal O Brien, Alan O Sullivan, Brian Gannon, John O Sullivan, Michael F. Russell, Johnny Lynch, David Lynch, Nigel Corkery, Pa O Sullivan. Subs: Shane Harmon, Dermot Murphy, Owen O Connell, Maurice Sheehan, Timmy McGillycuddy (all played).

U-12B Co. Championship

For some reason best known to themselves, Co. Bord na nOg divided the number of teams who entered for that competition into two groups of three teams. The competition was run on a league basis, with the top two teams from each group qualifying for the semi-finals. Coach – Michael Foley.

 

Rd. 1 on Tues. 16^th May at Knockreer: Legion ‘B’ 0-2; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 5-22.

Laune Rangers: Florence McCarthy, Noel Purcell, Kevin O Connor, Seamus Costello, T.J. Cronin, Paul O Brien, Gerard Purcell, Ross Breen, Timmy McGillycuddy, Paul Russell, Maurice Sheehan, Tony Lyons, Kevin Cahillane, Anthony Reen, John Paul Murphy. Subs: Michael Griffin (Ownagarry) for A. Reen; Cormac Foley for J.P. Murphy.

 

Rd 2 on Sat. 27^th May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 1-7; Dr. Crokes ‘B’ 1-1.

Laune Rangers: Florence McCarthy, Anthony Clifford, Simon Ferris, Noel Purcell, Seamus Costello, Paul O Brien, Gerard Purcell, Ross Breen, Timmy McGillycuddy, Paul Russell, Maurice Sheehan, Tony Lyons, Kevin Cahillane, Anthony Reen, John Paul Murphy.

 

Semi-Final on Sat. 24^th June at Milltown: Austin Stack’s ‘B’ 2-14; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 1-5.

Laune Rangers were outclassed. Dermot Murphy got most of the scores.

Laune Rangers: Simon Ferris, Kevin O Connor, Paul O Brien, Ross Breen, Enda Clifford, Gerard Purcell, Sean Costello, Seamus Costello (capt.), Timmy McGillycuddy, Shane Harmon, Maurice Sheehan, Tony Lyons, Anthony Reen, Dermot Murphy, Denis O Connor. Subs: Noel Purcell, Anthony Clifford, Paul Russell, John P. Murphy, Kevin Cahillane (all played), Florence McCarthy, John Moriarty, Robert Moriarty, Michael Coffey, Sean Coffey.

Ref: Dan Cronin (Milltown).

 

Schools’/Colleges’ Football

 

Mid-Kerry Primary Schools Championship.

 

Semi-Final on Fri. 9^th June at Milltown at 7-30pm:

Cullina 2-2; Scoil Mhuire ‘A’ (Brian Gannon) 1-4.

That competition was organised on a 15 a-side basis with four teams – Cullina, Milltown, Scoil Mhuire ‘A’ and Scoil Mhuire ‘B’. The teams played each other, the top team after the preliminary rounds going into the final and the teams in second and third places playing in the semi-final.

 

Laune Rangers N. S. Finals on Mon. 7^th Aug. at Killorglin.

That competition was run on a league basis, of 11-a-side, with the top two teams after the preliminary rounds contesting the ‘A’ final and the other two contesting the ‘B’ final.

 

‘B’ Final at 11.30am: Scoil Mhuire ‘A’ 6-8; Douglas 0-1.

Scoil Mhuire ‘A’: Brian Gannon (capt.), John O Sullivan, Anthony Horgan, David Lynch, Brendan O Doherty, Eamonn Clifford, Timothy Scannell, Maurice Sheehan, Timmy McGillycuddy, Pat Leahy, Gerard Teahan, Noel Purcell, John Moriarty, Anthony Reen.

Douglas: Gerard Purcell, Paul O Brien, Michael Hurley, Alan O Sullivan, Enda Clifford, Denis O Connor, Terence Houlihan, Kevin Purcell, Sean Costello, Seamus Costello, Sean Coffey, Michael Coffey. As both Alan O Sullivan and Enda Clifford were going to school outside the parish, they were given permission to play with Douglas.

 

‘A’ Final at 12.30pm: Scoil Mhuire ‘B’ 5-9; Glounaguillagh 4-9.

Scoil Mhuire ‘B’: Paudie Finnegan (capt.), Ross Breen, T.J. Cronin, Anthony O Sullivan, John Sheehan, Michael F. Russell, Aidan Leahy, Fiachra O Donoghue, Brian O Neill, Pa O Sullivan, Shane Harmon, Podge Foley, Paul Russell, Tony Lyons, Florence McCarthy, Kevin Cahillane, Robert Moriarty.

Glounaguillagh: Kevin O Connor, Dermot Murphy, Nelius Lynch, Cathal Browne, Johnny Murphy, Fergal O Brien, Johnny Lynch, Thomas Spillane, Nigel Corkery, Jonathan Griffin,             O Sullivan.

Ref: Bertie Houlihan – for both finals.

 

Munster Colleges U-16.5 ‘B’ Championship 1988/’89

Final on Wed. 31^st May at Ballyvourney: Intermediate School 0-15: Ballincollig 0-4.

Newspaper report: ‘The Intermediate School, Killorglin, made history at sun-drenched Ballyvourney when they carried off the Munster U-16.5 ‘B’ football competition in their first year of competing at this level. The scoreline does not do justice to the gallant Ballincollig boys who led by 0-2 to 0-1 at halftime.

However, in the second half they found themselves pitted against a well-organised and polished Killorglin side. The winners proceeded to give a power-packed display of fast, open football interwoven with some fine teamwork.

Ballincollig dominated the opening ten minutes but their forwards found it extremely difficult to find a way past a solid Killorglin defence, and when they did manage to break the cover, their shooting left them down. Admittedly, a tricky crosswind made scoring difficult and the winners were also guilty of some bad misses.

Ballincollig relied a lot on speedy wing forward Finian Cogan. He appeared very dangerous early on in the game but the tenacious Eoin Corkery got to grips with matters and the threat was curbed.

However, the Killorglin boys took the game by the scruff of the neck from an early stage of the second half. Midfielders Kieran O Shea and Gary McGrath, who had taken control midway through the first half, were now complately dominant in the middle of the field. O Shea proceeded to give a marvellous exhibition of footballing skills, kicking some glorious points from play and frees – from 45 and 50 metres. On the strength of this display, O Shea must be in strong contention for a place on the Kerry minor team. Gary McGrath gave him great support all through and his fetching and astute passes were a feature of the game. It was really a team performance by the Killorglin side, with players working tirelessly for one another, ably led by team captain O Shea whose personal tally of 12 points speaks for itself.

Team: Colin O Sullivan (Cromane), Noel Conroy (Laune Rangers), Kieran Coffey (Beaufort), James Hurley (LR), Sean O Sullivan (LR), Mícheál Spillane (B), Eoin Corkery (LR), Gary McGrath (B), Kieran O Shea (B) capt, Billy O Shea (LR), Paudie Russel l(LR), Carl O Sullivan (LR), Colm Joy (LR), David Lynch (B), Jason Griffin (LR). Subs: Michael Lynch (Laune Rangers), B. O Connor, Eoin O Sullivan (Laune Rangers), Fergal Spillane (Beaufort), V. Horgan, D. Roche, Kieran Doyle.

 

Munster Colleges (Corn Uí Mhuirí) 1989/’90

Intermedaite School re-entered the Senior Colleges Championship (Corn Uí Mhuirí) for the first time since 1976. Trainers/Coaches – Brendan Twomey and Frank Walsh.

 

Rd. 1 on Wed. 27^th Sept. at Beaufort: Intermediate School 0-6; St. Brendan’s, Killarney 0-4.

Spirited Killorglin, playing in the competition for the first time, made a successful debut at the expense of tradition-steeped St. Brendan’s in the preliminary round of the Corn Uí Mhuirí. The football was not of a high standard, however, and both sets of forwards were guilty of appalling marksmanship. But, the stronger Kilorglin men, seven of whom were on the Laune Rangers team, which won the Kerry minor championship recently, got a firm grip in the second half and deserved their victory.

Killorglin had a succession of missed chances in the first half and St. Brendan’s, with corner-forward, Cathal O Grady, accounting for most of their scores, led at the break by 0-4 to 0-2. On the resumption, Killorglin got down to serious business and, following points from two of their best players, giant midfielder John Doona and wing-forward Michael Lynch, were on level terms by the 36^th minute. Awarded a penalty in the 46^th minute, St. Brendan’s had a golden opportunity to get back on top but Cathal O Grady’s low shot hit the right of the post and went wide.

After that let-off, Killorglin, who had Kerry minors, Eoin Joy and Kieran O Shea on duty, redoubled their efforts and put in a storming finish with their remaining points coming from Michael Lynch. Incidentally, Kerry minor star, Billy O Sullivan, was still a student in the Killorglin school but was overage for Corn Uí Mhuirí.

Intermediate School: Kieran Doyle (Beaufort), Kieran Coffey (do.), Gary McGrath (do.), Paudie Russell (Laune Rangers), Owen Joy (do.), Mícheál Spillane (B), Owen Corkery (LR), John Doona (LR) 0-1, Billy O Shea (LR), Carl O Sullivan (LR) 0-2, Kieran O Shea (B), Michael Lynch (LR) 0-3, Owen O Sullivan (LR), Nigel Reidy (LR), Jason Griffin (LR). Subs: Stephen Corkery (LR) for C. O Sullivan; Colm Joy (LR) for N. Reidy.

St. Brendan’s: S. Clifford, N. Mangan, C. O Connor, D. Doody, R. Willis, S. Moynihan, T. Fagan, T. McManus, W. O Connor, N. Hurley, P. Finn, G. Spellman (0-1), Cathal O Grady (0-3), D. Moran, Sean Culloty. Subs: C. Murphy for Culloty; E. O Sullivan for Hurley.

Ref: John Somers (Currow).

 

Rd. 2 on Wed. 15^th Nov. at Kanturk: Intermediate School 1-7; Midleton CBS 1-5.

The Kerryman carried this report: ‘Powered by seven members of the Laune Rangers team, which won this year’s county minor championship, Killorglin have attained a very high standard and if they learn to put chances away better they can undoubtedly make a very serious assault on the championship title. “We are able to dominate games but we can’t put up the scores. We should really have taken Midleton apart,” said Brendan Twomey, Crotta, and former Kerry hurler, who is joint trainer with Frank Walsh. “Hopefuly we will improve in this respect. We certainly have the material to give any team a reasonably good game.”

Killorglin were slow to re-enter the Munster colleges’ senior championship, after a bad experience against St. Brendan’s, Killarney in 1976. “At that time, we thought that there was a huge gulf, but maybe our team is much better and maybe St. Brendan’s and the others are not so good,” said Brendan.

The emergence of Laune Rangers as a very powerful force in Kerry football had, of course, been a major boost. As well, Killorglin won the Munster ‘B’ under 16.5 Championship the previous year and the basis of a very good team was there. “We really did not know what to expect this year, so we are quite pleased with the way things have worked out to date,” said Brendan.

Killorglin were already in the final of the Kerry Colleges’ S.F. Championship (against Tralee CBS) and the final of the County Cup. Star Kerry minor, Billy O Sullivan, was available for O Sullivan Cup duty, but he was overage for the Munster championship, which was a great pity from a Killorglin point of view.

In the game against Midleton CBS, Killorglin played delightful football into the wind and led by 1-4 to 0-3 at halftime. However, Midleton hit them for a goal two minutes into the second half and that rattled Killorglin a bit. In the heel of the hunt, Killorglin had good reason to be grateful to Kieran O Shea, who produced a terrific performance at midfield. He scored a superb point after the Midleton goal, to help settle his team and Billy O Shea widened the gap to three points.

However, Midleton remained strongly in contention, largely because of Killorglin’s inability to shut the door on them up front, and there was to be only one more Killorglin score before the end – a point by Jason Griffin. As it turned out, Killorglin’s lead was enough, but they should not have to endure the uncertainty, which existed right to the end.’

Intermediate School: Kieran Doyle, Paudie Russell, Gary McGrath, Kieran Coffey, Mícheál Spillane, Owen Joy (0-1), Owen Corkery, Kieran O Shea (0-2), John Doona, Nigel Reidy, Billy O Shea (0-1), Michael Lynch (0-1), Jason Griffin (0-1), Mícheál O Mahony (Glencar) 1-0, Carl O Sullivan (0-1). Sub: Colm Joy for J. Griffin.

Midleton: Liam Kelly (Killeagh), Sean Barry (Carrigtwohill), William Wallace (Midleton), David O Mahony (Erin’s Own), Maurice Barry (Midleton), Michael Barry (Carrigtwohill), Trevor Dunlea (Erin’s Own) 0-1, Muiris Quirke (Midleton), Owen O Neill (Aghada), Darren Lea (Midleton) 0-1, Colman Dillon (Erin’s Own), Cormac Quirke (Midleton), Gregory Murphy (Erin’s Own) 0-1,  Brian Gleeson (1-0). Subs: Paul Nolan (Carrigtwohill); Brian Corcoran (Erin’s Own) 0-2. Brian Corcoran, the Midleton midfielder, failed a fitness test fiftenn minutes before the game but he did enter the fray after 20 minutes when it was realised that Killorglin were winning at midfield.

Ref: M. Keane (Cloughduv).

 

Quarter-Final on Wed. 13^th Dec. at Kanturk: Intermediate School 1-9; Carrignavar 1-2

Newspaper report: ‘No team surely, has made a bigger impact in the Munster Colleges SF championship in its first year of participation in it than Killorglin Intermediate School. It was quite an achievement to reach the knock-out stages(quarter-finals), which resulted from two handsome victories, and now the Killorglin boys have reached the semi-final of the competition.

“We are over the moon really. This is the premier schools’ competition in Munster and it’s marvellous to get to the semi-final of it,” said Brendan Twomey, trainer of the team with Frank Walsh.

Killorglin reached the semi-final, which will be played next February, by beating Sacred Heart College, Carrignavar, by 1-9 to 1-2 at Kanturk. Conditions were very much against Killorglin with a heavy pitch favouring the physically stronger Cork boys, but they applied themselves to their task with tremendous zeal and this commitment, allied to a high degree of skill, was most definitely a winning combination on the day.

Brendan Twomey didn’t want to send out his charges at all, such was the state of the pitch – it was badly waterlogged in places. However, his team wanted to play and that was an indication of their determination. Things did not work out too well for Killorglin in the opening stages, however. In the first few minutes, they missed three points from play and then conceded a goal. The goal came in the eight minute, following a great save by Killorglin ‘keeper, Kieran Doyle. The attempted clearance by Doyle was blocked down and the ball finished to the net.

This should have rattled Killorglin, but the goal had the opposite effect. The Mid-Kerry boys proceeded to play some great football, with John Doona and Kieran O Shea excelling at midfield, and they gradually got on level terms, through points by Doona, Michael O Mahony and Billy O Shea. Further points by O Shea left them ahead by 0-5 to 1-0 at halftime.

Carrignavar made a brave bid to pull back their arrears in the second half, but Killorglin were well equal to the challenge and, while only three points separated the sides coming to the final minutes, Killorglin never looked like losing the initiative. In the last three minutes, Killorglin well and truly clinched victory with a point by the inspirational Kieran O Shea and a goal by Michael O Mahony. The groundwork for the goal was laid by Eoin Joy, who put Michael O Mahony in passession. O Mahony’s shot was bound for the corner of the net and a deflection off a defender could not prevent the goal.

On the day Killorglin had fifteen heroes. John Doona and Kieran O Shea may have marvellous work at midfield and Eoin Joy (centre half-back) and Billy O Shea (centre half-forward) may have formed a powerful diamond with them, but all the others contributed handsomely to the victory effort. Mike Lynch typified the spirit of the others, working like a beaver in attack and operating back in defence when the need arose.

Already in the semi-finals were Mayfield and Skibereen, both of whom beat Tralee CBS, and, it was felt that St. Brendan’s, Killarney, would make it through with them. Killorglin were more than happy to have gone so far, with everything very much a bonus at that stage, but the manner of their victories to date suggested that they had a very realistic chance of outright victory. “I haven’t seen the others, but I suppose we must have a reasonable chance st this stage,” said Brendan Twomey.’

Scorers for the Intermediate School – Mícheál O Mahony 1-2, Kieran O Shea 0-2, John Doona 0-2, Billy O Shea 0-2 and Michael Lynch 0-1

 

Kerry Vocational Schools’ U-16 Football Championship (Corn Uí Droma)

Tues. 28^th Feb. at Dromid: Cahersiveen V.S. 6-6; Killorglin V.S. 4-8.

Kerry Vocational Schools U-15 Football Championship

Final on Thurs. 30^th Nov. at Connolly Park: Killorglin Community College 3-2; Causeway Comp. 1-6.

Kerry’s Eye: ‘Killorglin Community College snathched a dramatic win over Causeway Comprehensive School with a goal by Jerry O Brien in the dying seconds of the Kerry V.E.C-AIB sponsored- Junior Football Championship (U-15) final played at Connolly park, Tralee, on Thursday last.

Killorglin started in great fashion with Emmett Spring opening the scoring with a point and O Brien scoring the first of his two goals to put their team 1-1 in front by the first quarter. Causeway’s best player afield, Kenneth Boyle, came more into the game at midfield to point three times in succession before the interval to leave his side in arrears by the narrowest margin 1-1 to 0-3 at the interval.

Stephen Galway equalised for the North Kerry School after the interval and thus the second half developed into an epic encounter. Thomas Corbett goaled for Killorglin but John O Halloran replied immediately with a similar score for Causeway. Substitute, John O Mahony put Causeway ahead and thanks to Boyle at midfield and John Quilter at centre halfback, Causeway took control. They were awarded a penalty in the 55^th minute but Kenneth Boyle’s shot rebounded to Edward Power. However, Killorglin goalkeeper, Kevin Giles, was equal to the task and smothered Power’s shot. Inspired by this save, Killorglin went on the offensive and Kevin Jones tied the scores two minutes from time.

A minute later Kenneth Boyle pointed once again to restore Causeway’s lead. Killorglin gained possession from the kickout and Corbett set up O Brien for his match winning goal, that gallant Causeway ‘keeper just failed to hold from crossing the goal line. Killorglin had their heroes in goalkeeper, Kevin Giles, and the fullback line of Tommy Griffin, John Cronin and Eamonn Breen and midfielder Kevin Jones.

Killorglin C.C: Kevin Giles (Milltown), John Cronin (Laune Rangers), Tommy Griffin (Keel), Eamonn Breen (Beaufort), A. Foley, Derry Flynn (K), J. Teahan, Kevin Jones (LR), Mike Hassett (LR), S. O Sullivan, Jerry O Brien (LR), Thomas Corbett (Firies), Liam Hasset (LR), Emmett Spring (Milltown), Pat McCarthy (Cromane). Sub: C. O Sullivan for M. Hassett.

 

Kerry V.E.C. Senior Football Championship

In October at Farranfore: Killorglin V.S. 0-11; Tralee V.S. 1-7.

Final on Sun. 10^th Dec. at Fitzgerald Stadium: Tralee C. C. 2-8; Killorglin C. C. 1-7.

Tim Vaughan in The Kerryman reported on the game thus: ‘After putting a very shaky start behind them, Tralee Community College asserted themselves over arch rivals, Killorglin, to repeat their victory over the same team in last year’s final. Indeed with their four points’ victory at Fitzgerald Stadium on Sunday, the Tralee school made it a hat trick of senior county championship titles. However, their third consecutive victory was not made of the stuff that one expects from school’s football. This was a most disappointing and eminently forgettable encounter between two sides, which gave the impression that they were simply going through the motions. Even, when referee, Dan O Sullivan, blew the final whistle there was barely a hint of happiness, in victory, from the Tralee side, nor of disappointment from their Killorglin opponents. The few supporters, who turned up to see the game didn’t seem to care much either.

Mind you, the game did get off to a lively start, with the ball in the Tralee net after seven seconds. Straight from the throw-in, Killorglin gained possession and corner-forward, Kevin Jones, caught the Tralee goalkeeper, Declan Sweeney, off his line to punch the ball to the net. Over the next 15 minutes Killorglin took hold of the game and when points by Jones, Thomas Corbett and Alan Kerins put them ahead by 1-3 to 0-0 it looked like the Launesiders were about to avange last year’s defeat.

But then the physically stronger Tralee side hit back with points from Declan O Connell and Terry Healy before their captain, Joe Smith, played a part in a crucial score. Smith lobbed a free high into the square, where it bobbed around in the air before being fielded by Brendan Murphy who rasped it to the net. This was all Tralee needed and, playing with greater confidence, they went on to level the scores through a John Brosnan point and notched up two more before the break to lead by 1-5 to 1-3.

If Killorglin got off the flying start in the first half, Tralee did exactly the same in the second. A quick point after the break by John Brosnan was followed by a remarkable goal by Joe Smith three minutes later. A ‘50’ by Smith sailed out of reach of the out-stretched hands in the square and went straight to the roof of the net.

This crushing blow did not kill off the Killorglin challenge, particularly not the spirit of the lively Alan Kerins, who replied with two quick points, to leave the score 2-6 to 1-5 going into the final quarter. But the Launesiders failed to maintain their comeback challenge and the Tralee side hung on for a deserved, if uninspiring, victory.’

Killorglin C.C: Denis Costello (Laune Rangers), Aidan Foley (Firies), Gerry Clifford (Listry), Timmy O Connor (Beaufort), Donal Murphy (Keel), Colman O Shea (Listry), Billy Dermody (Laune Rangers), Padraig Clifford (Glenbeigh), Adrian Hassett (Laune Rangers), Gene Daly (Milltown), Jeremiah O Sullivan (Firies) capt., Mike Hassett (LR), Alan Kerins (Milltown) 0-3, Thomas Corbett (Firies) 0-2, Kevin Jones (LR) 1-1. Subs: Shane O Sullivan (Glenbeigh) 0-1 for P. Clifford; Pat O Shea (Beaufort) for G. Daly, Michael Lawlor (Milltown), Tommy Griffin (Keel), Anthony O Shea (Milltown), Brendan Allman (Listry), William O Shea (do), Stephen O Sullivan (Laune Rangers), Eamonn Breen (Beaufort), Dinny O Shea (Glenbeigh). Coaches – Peter Gill and George Dennis.

Ref: Dan O Sullivan (Currow).

 

Third Level Football

Freshers Football Championship at the end of April in the Mardyke, Cork:

Tralee RTC 0-12; RTC Cork 0-4.

Semi-final – Tralee RTC 1-8; UCC 0-9.

Final – Tralee RTC 4-7; NIHE (Limerick) 1-7.

Gerard Clifford played in goals and Pat McKenna played at centre half-forward, scoring 0-1. Mark O Sullivan was a substitute.

 

Munster Minor Football League

 

Rd. 1 on Sat. 8^th April at Ballyhooley: Waterford 0-4; Kerry South 5-16.

Owen Joy scored 1-4 from the full-forward position and played very impressively. Billy O Sullivan was most unimpressive on the 40 – he scored one point. Timmy Corkery was great at midfield, scoring four points. Pa Murphy, though he scored a goal, did not play well at halfback.

 

Final on Sat. 29^th April at Kenmare: Kerry South 1-8; Cork County 0-10.

Cork had Aindrias O Sullivan sent off early in the second half and that allowed Kerry to take control. Reports in the paper said: ‘ Killorglin’s Eoin Joy pointed to tie the scores after a pass from John Brosnan. It was the first of two excellent scores by Joy who foraged well for possession from the No. 14 berth. He was in the thick of the action again minutes later when he put McIntyre through and his shot for a goal was saved on the line by one of the Cork corner-backs.’

‘Although making headway against a tiring Cork side, Kerry needed a goal to wrest the title and that’s exactly what they got following a blistering run through the centre by O Sullivan. His shot was saved by the goalkeeper, but the rebound went to an unmarked Peter Keane on the edge of the square and his task of tapping the ball home was a simple one.’

After the game Andy O Sullivan, Kenmare, presented the trophy to Billy O Sullivan.

Kerry South: Oran O Mahony (St. Mary’s), Sean Price (Kenmare), Colm Healy (Spa), Eamonn Kennedy (Firies), Pa Murphy (Laune Rangers), Kieran O Shea (Beaufort), John Cronin (Waterville), Sean O Shea (Kenmare) 0-1, Billy O Sullivan (LR) capt. 0-3, Timmy Corkery (LR), Peter Keane (St. Mary’s) 1-1, John Bowler (Legion), John Brosnan (Currow), Eoin Joy (LR) 0-2, Seamus McIntyre (Kenmare). Subs: Paul Curran (Valentia) 0-1 for J. Bowler; Colman O Shea (Listry) for J. Brosnan.

Ref: Maurice O Sullivan (Ballyheigue).

 

Munster Minor Football Championship

 

Semi-Final on Wed. 5^th June at Walsh Park, Waterford: Waterford 0-6; Kerry 2-11.

1^st Half: Billy O Sullivan had a point from play in the 7^th minute, Peter Keane a point from play in the 10^th minute, Timmy Corkery a goal from play in the 12^th minute, Brendan O Mahony a point from play in the 16^th minute, Timmy Corkery a point from play in the 19^th minute, Billy O Sullivan pointed from play in the 24^th minute, Cormac Kennedy had a point from play in the 29^th minute. Halftime score 1-6 to 0-2.

2^nd Half: In the 3^rd minute Peter Keane had a point from a free, Timmy Corkery a point from play in the 18^th minute, Peter Keane had a goal from play in the 23^rd minute, Seamus McIntyre a point from play in the 27^th minute, Seamus Murphy saved a penalty in the 28^th minute, Peter Keane got a point from play in the 29^th minute.

Kerry: Seamus Murphy (St. Pat’s), Fergus Stack (Beale), Colm Healy (Spa), Pa Murphy (Laune Rangers), Owen Joy (LR), Sean O Shea (Kenmare), John Cronin (Waterville), Conor Kearney (Brick Rangers), Pa Laide (Austin Stacks), Timmy Corkery (LR) 1-2, William O Donnell (Ballydonoghue), Peter Keane (St. Mary’s) 1-3, Paul Curran (Valentia) 0-1, Brendan O Mahony (St. Senan’s) 0-1, Billy O Sullivan (LR) 0-2. Subs: Cormac Kennedy (John Mitchel’s) 0-1 for P. Laide (inj); Seamus McIntyre (Kenmare) 0-1 for B. O Mahony (inj); T. J. O Connor (Ballyduff) for S. O Shea; John Bowler (Legion), Bernard McElligott (Brick Rangers), Diarmuid O Callaghan (Kilcummin), Gary Stack (Listowel), Kieran O Shea (Beaufort), Conor Ryle (St. Pat’s).

 

Final on Sun. 23^rd July at Killarney at 2pm: Kerry 2-10; Cork 2-9.

Elation! That was Laune Rangers second year-in-a-row providing the captain of a victorious Kerry minor team in a Munster final. Billy O Sullivan was superb, scoring a goal and five points and laying on the other goal. Everything he did was touched with class. Timmy Corkery had a quiet first half in the corner, but when he moved to the forty, he really opened up, giving a great display and scoring the winning point. Eoin Joy had a sound game and he kicked a superb equaliser near the end. Pa Murphy never really settled and was replaced at halftime.

Once more the bonfires burned at the bridge and Mountain View. A cavalcade of cars accompanied John Purcell’s lorry, carrying the heroes, through the town to Mountain View and down again to the bridge.

Torc in Kerry’s Eye reported as follows: ‘The joy experienced by Eoin Joy when he launched that marvellous kick from 50m in the 58^th minute to draw Kerry level was ecstatic. He retold it –“I looked up, saw the posts, and said to myself, launch it and I did.” There were many sterling performances by Kerry. Colm Healy was the best of a fullback line that was not as authorative as hoped. He rendered sterling service in the second half, clearing under pressure at least four times and enhanced his reputation. At halfback Eoin Joy stuck to his task for sixty minutes and that point in the fifty-eighth minute will live in his memory forever. Sean O Shea is a sterling defender and John Cronin is an essential halfback. Conor Kearney strove manfully at midfield. Billy O Sullivan, the captain, is, as minors go, the best that has been seen on the Kerry scene for years.

The play: Billy O Sullivan had a great point for Kerry from a free in the second minute. Cork attacked and had the first of many wides, which contributed to their downfall. In the seventh minute, Colin Corkery had a good point from a free. Peter Keane received from Kieran O Shea and pointed and Billy O Sullivan had another Kerry point from a narrow angle. Peter Keane, smart on the ball, found B. O Sullivan for the fourth point.

Kerry was playing against the very lilt of a breeze. Sean O Shea showed his capability and cleared to P. Keane who drove in, but the last pass went astray – this in the eleventh minute. Declan McElhinney and Colin Corkery attacked but John Cronin stood firm. Colin Corkery had a point from a free in the fourteenth minute and James Galvin had a Cork point from 60m. In the seventeenth minute Jason Whooley skipped past Fergus Stack for a Cork point. Colm Healy blocked well for Kerry. The signs were ominous as Tim O Keeffe was on top at right half-forward and showing his skills. Kieran Linehan had a Cork point. Cork 0-5; Kerry 0-4.

James Galvin was fielding well at midfield. The Cork half-forwards were fast and clever. Anthony Elliot came out to midfield for Cork. Fergus Stack jumped across the Kerry defence and conceded a ‘45’, from which Colin Corkery was wide. Cork swept into the attack but had five wides on the trot. Kerry was gone at midfield and Kieran O Shea was moved to shore up that sector. Suddenly, in the 28^th minute, Billy O Sulivan’s free came off the post and in the ensuing play he retrieved the ball, parted to K. O Shea who shot to the net at the scoreboard end. Tim O Keeffe gathered the kickout and within twenty seconds, superlative player that he is, had the ball in the Kerry net. Conor Ryle came on at left corner-back. Halftime score: Cork 1-5; Kerry 1-4.

Cork had a series of wides on the restart. Brendan O Mahony was now brought on for Kerry. Timmy Corkery, alive and alert, found his clubmate, Billy O Sullivan, in the 35^th minute and he slotted the second Kerry goal. Kieran O Shea secured at midfield and put P. Keane through for a point, to put Kerry three points clear. Colm Healy at fullbck now entered his best period and shone in the Kerry defence. In the 38^th minute, Billy O Sullivan had a Kerry point. Tim O Keeffe set up Niall Mulvihill for a Cork point. John Donegan cleared for Cork. Another high and mighty kick for Cork by Declan Creedon yielded a point.

In the 44^th minute, Billy O Sullivan had a point from a ‘45’ and three minutes later Brendan O Mahony, receiving from P. Keane, curled a beauty in off the posts for what looked like the insurance point. Colm Healy was in action again to effect for Kerry. Conor Kearney fielded well and B. O Mahony, T. Corkery and P. Keane exerted heavy pressure on Cork. In the 51^st minute, James Galvin fielded and Cork got a free out in the centre of the field, which C. Corkery pointed. In the 54^th minute Corkery drove in and the loose ball was touched forward by William McCarthy for Cork and deceived the Kerry goalkeeper. Goal for Cork! Level.

Tim O Keeffe, the torturer of Kerry, sent in, Billy McCarthy got the break and A. Elliot found K. Linehan for the lead. Then in the 58^th minute, Eoin Joy launched his majestic equaliser, and in the 60^th minute Timmy Corkery won the game for Kerry. Congratulations to both teams. They proved what a great spectacle Gaelic Football can be.’

Kerry: Seamus Murphy, Fergus Stack, Colm Healy, Pa Murphy, Eoin Joy (0-1), Sean O Shea, John Cronin, Conor Kearney, William O Donnell, Kieran O Shea (1-0), T.J. O Connor, Peter Keane (0-2), John Daly (Kenmare), Billy O Sullivan (1-5), Timmy Corkery (0-1). Subs: Brendan O Mahony (0-1), Conor Ryle, Benny Murphy (Austin Stacks).

Cork: Keith Horgan (Nemo), John Cotter (Nemo), John Donegan (Mitchelstown), Oliver O Sullivan (Garnish)capt., Mícheál Ó Tuama (Naomh Aban), Declan McElhinney (Delaneys), Declan Creedon (Nemo)0-1, James Galvin (Bishopstown)0-1, Aindrias O Sullivan (Dromtariffe), Tim O Keeffe (Nemo)1-0, Colin Corkery (Nemo) 0-3, Niall Mulvihill (Glanmire) 0-1, Kieran Linehan (Boherbue) 0-2, Anthony Elliot (St. Vincent’s), Jason Whooley (Glen Rovers) 0-1. Subs: Willie McCarthy (1-0), Brian Corkery.

Ref: Ray Moloney (Limerick).

Captain Billy O Sullivan brought the cup to Killorglin that evening, where the players were led through the streets by a cavalcade of cars packed with cheering supporters.

 

Billy O Sullivan collects the ball, shoots at goal and celebrates hitting the net

All-Ireland Semi-Final on Sun. 20^th Aug. at Croke Park: Offaly 1-14; Kerry 0-8.

Tom Barrett reported in the Kerry’s Eye: ‘With Kerry playing against a strong breeze, Offaly full-forward Shane Kellaghan opened the scoring with a point as he side-stepped the Kerry defence after two minutes. Reynolds added another point two minutes later. Conor Kearney was rather unlucky to tip the ball down towards his midfield partner, William O Donnell, only to see it snatched by the ever alert Sean Grennan who cut through the Kerry halfbacks and increased Offally’s lead to three points after four minutes. Seamus Murphy was getting more length into his kickouts. Conor Kearney caught a great ball in the middle of the field, crossed to P. Keane, who sent to Billy O Sullivan who was narrowly wide. Alan Hogan moved upfield on a solo, was fouled and pointed the resultant free. Colm Healy cut off a promising Offaly attack in fine style and Eoin Joy who had moved up the field, opened Kerry’s account with a well-taken point, to leave the score 0-4 to 0-1 after twelve minutes.

Kerry adopted the tactic of keeping the ball low against the strong wind   and this paid off when Kieran O Shea pointed in the 17^th minute. A point by McKeon was followed by a similar score from a 30m free by the same player. Colm McTeague pointed a free from a very difficult angle almost on the endline under the Nally Stand. From the kickout, the wind caught the ball, McTeague secured possession and scored another point, which was followed by a similar score by Alan Hogan, to leave Offaly ahead 0-9 to 0-2 after 23 minutes.

The Kerry half-forward line was now getting the better of their Offaly opponents and John Bowler scored two points to narrow the gap. Kieran O Shea cleverly jinked his way through the Offaly defence, gave a great pass to Billy O Sullivan who made a brilliant dash goalwards, only to be fouled on the very edge of the square. In fact many of the Kerry supporters thought that he would be awarded a penalty. However, he pointed the resultant free to leave the halftime score, Offaly 0-9; Kerry 0-5.

With the strong wind in their favour the possibility of Kerry wiping out that four points deficit was on the cards, but it was Offaly who broke away from the throw-in for Sean Grennan to score a point. Again the Kerry defence was in trouble and Fergus Stack saved a dangerous situation. The Offaly centre half-back, Finbar Cullen, was replaced by Finbar Kinnally. Hogan put Offaly further ahead with a point. Billy O Sullivan pointed a free after B. O Mahony was injured and replaced by B. McElligott. Fergus Stack, Billy Lehane, Eoin Joy and John Cronin pushed forward to drive some great balls into the Kerry forwards, but alas they had no luck, and wides were the order of the day. Alan Hogan was fouled and drove the free fully forty yards over the Kerry cross-bar against the wind and rain. A good passing move by the Offaly attack came to no avail as Seamus Murphy saved a blasting shot from the inrushing Naill Hand. Fergus Stack rose high to catch and clear a dangerous side-line ball from Alan Hogan, and a few minutes later Sean O Shea broke down another Offaly attack. We saw two points from frees by Billy O Sullivan. Again the Kerry forwards missed a chance when anyone of three forwards might have goaled. Cormac Kennedy came on for T. Corkery and John Daly replaced W. O Donnell. In a mass attack on the Offaly goal, the ball came back off the butt of the upright, and the referee awarded a free out. It was Kerry’s final attack, and the match ended two minutes later on the score Offaly 0-14; Kerry 0-8.

Perhaps the tension of Croke Park got to the Kerry lads. It took them a long time to settle down, and of course playing against the wind in the first half made their task all the harder. It was not for the want of trying that Kerry lost. Everyone of the team worked hard, but few reached their best on a day when only their best was good enough. Seamus Murphy dealt capably with the shots he got, but then he was well covered by overworked backs, especially F. Stack, who cut off some dangerous attacks. Colm Healy and Billy Lehane completed a sound fullback line. Conor Kearney played his heart out, especially in the second half, and gave the forwards a great service, but, with the exception of J. Bowler, B. O Sullivan and K. O Shea, the other forwards were held in a vice-like grip by the stout Offaly backs.’

Kerry: Seamus Murphy, Fergus Stack, Colm Healy, Billy O Lehane (Austin Stacks), Eoin Joy (0-1), Sean O Shea, John Cronin, Conor Kearney, William O Donnell, Kieran O Shea (0-1), Timmy Corkery, Peter Keane, John Bowler (0-2), Billy O Sullivan (0-4), Brendan O Mahony. Subs: Bernard McElligott for B. O Mahony; Cormac Kennedy for T. Corkery; John Daly for W. O Donnell; Oran O Mahony, Seamus McIntyre, Benny Murphy, Conor Ryle, Pa Murphy, Pa Laide.

Ref: Jim Curran (Tyrone).

Trainer/Selector – Jackie Walsh; Selectors – Mikey Sheehy, Dan O Sullivan, Jim Wrenn and Michael Price.

 

 Munster U-21 Football Championship

 

Kerry trial on Sun. 22nd Jan. at Cromane at 11.00am: Shane O Sullivan, Tommy Byrne, Paul Griffin, Billy O Sullivan, Pat McKenna, Liam Foley, Bertie O Riordan, Mark O Connor, Danny Cahill (all Laune Rangers), James O Shea, Patie Casey and William Joy (all Cromane) were invited to attend.

 

Trial on Sun. 5^th Feb. at Beaufort at 11.00am: Shane O Sullivan, Tommy Byrne, Paul Griffin, Liam Foley (all Laune Rangers), James O Shea & Patie Casey (Cromane) were invited to attend.

 

Trial on Sat. 18^th Feb. at Milltown: ‘A’ v ‘B’.

James O Shea (Cromane) and Shane O Sullivan were halfbacks on the ‘A’ team and Timmy Fleming right half-forward. Liam Foley played in goals for the ‘B’ team, Paul Griffin played at right half-forward and Patie Casey (Cromane) played at left half-forward.

 

Rd. 1 on Thurs. 30^th March at Páirc Uí Chaoimh: Cork 2-11; Kerry 0-9.

Kerry was well and truly beaten by a determined Cork outfit. Many of the players’ performances were sub-standard. Maurice Fitzgerald, though injured in the Sigerson Cup, played at left-half forward but could not really contribute. Timmy Fleming had a quite game. Shane O Sullivan was the best of the Kerry defence and managed to get his name on the scoresheet with a point just before halftime.

Kerry: Peter O Leary (Legion), Billy O Connor (Beale), Liam Burns (Sneem), Robbie O Dwyer (Waterville), Pat Slattery (Brick Rangers), James Brosnan (Gneeveguilla), Shane O Sullivan (Laune Rangers) 0-1, Anthony Gleeson (John Mitchel’s) 0-1, Timmy Fleming (Laune Rangers), Donal Culloty (Legion), Eamonn Breen (Finuge), Maurice Fitzgerald (St. Mary’s) 0-4, 3 frees and a ‘45’, Jamie Courtney (Listry), Noel O Mahony (Kerins O Rahilly’s) 0-1, Sean Geaney (Dingle) 0-2. Subs: James O Shea (Laune Rangers), Donal Mangan (Dr. Crokes), Aidan O Shea (Dr. Crokes), Paul Griffin (Laune Rangers), Conor McNiece (Legion), Liam Foley (Laune Rangers) – sub goalie, Sean Burke (Milltown/Castlemaine).

Cork: A. Cawley, Derek O Brien, Mark O Connor, M. Lyons, Seamus Coughlan, Stephen O Brien, N. Murphy, D. Fitzgerald (0-3), Liam Honohan, Don Davis (0-1), Michael Mullins (0-6, 3 frees), Gabriel Lally, S. Callanan (0-1), Denis O Sullivan (2-0), N. Twomey. Subs: S Dineen for L. Honohan; D. Burke for D. O Brien.

Ref: Ray Moloney (Limerick).

Trainer/Selector – Buddy O Grady. Selectors – Donie O Leary, Michael McCarthy, P.J. Donovan and Eric Browne.

 

Munster Senior Football Championship

 

Challenge on Sun. 16^th April at Tourlestrane, Co. Sligo: Sligo 1-7; Kerry 0-10.

Timmy Fleming was very impressive, fielding some great balls over the hour.

Kerry: Peter O Leary, Tim Geaney, Niall Savage, Vincent Knightley, Jimmy Keane, Morgan Nix, Shane O Sullivan, Robbie O Dwyer, Pat Slattery, Willie O Connor, Timmy Fleming (0-5, 4 frees), Conor McNiece (0-1), Aidan O Shea (0-1, free), Gerard Murphy, Colm Geaney (0-1). Subs: Tomás O Connor (0-2) for G. Murphy.

 

Challenge on Sun. 21^st May at Dingle: Kerry 2-9; Mayo 1-19.

Kerry: Charlie Nelligan, Vincent Knightley, Ambrose O Donovan, Connir Murphy, Pat Slattery, Alastair Mac Gearailt, Eamonn Walsh (capt.), Tommy Spillane, Mick Galway, Timmy Fleming (1-0), Pat Spillane (0-2), Tomas O Connor (0-1), Willie Maher (0-3), Eoin Liston (1-1), Michael McAuliffe (0-2). Subs: Fintan Ashe for A. Mac Gearailt, Colm Geaney for T. O Connor, Tomas Hannifin for V. Knightley.

 

Challenge on Sun. 28^th May at Firies: Kerry 1-8; Meath 2-12.

That was the opening of Páirc Eamonn.

Kerry: Tom Lynch, Connie Murphy, Ambrose O Donovan, Pat Slattery (Austin Stacks), Pat Slattery (Brick Rangers), Sean Burke, Pat Clifford (Waterville), Tommy Spillane (0-1), Mick Galway, Michael McAuliffe (1-0), Timmy Fleming (0-5, 2 frees), Pat Spillane (0-2), Pa Dennehy, Eoin Liston, Donal Culloty. Subs: Noel O Leary for P. Slattery (Brick Rangers), J.J. Canty for T. Lynch, M. O Leary (Firies) for M. McAuliffe.

 

Semi-Final on Sun. 18^th June at Askeaton: Limerick 1-10; Kerry 6-7.

Timmy Fleming got an all important goal described by Eamonn Horan in The Kerryman: ‘Fortunately, it was the winners who eventually broke the deadlock six minutes into the second half and they did it style. In a glittering movement the ball passed from Jack O Shea to M. McAuliffe to P. Spillane to the ‘Bomber’ Liston who laid on a perfect pass for the inrushing Timmy Fleming and the whole-hearted Laune Rangers man hammered the ball to the net to the delight of the Kerry supporters. If ever a team needed a score like that at that stage in the game then the team was Kerry. That goal seemed to lift the team as a whole and suddenly they began to look more positive and determined.’

Kerry: Charlie Nelligan, Ken Savage, Liam Hartnett (Dr. Crokes), Morgan Nix, Tommy Spillane (1-0), Ambrose O Donovan, Connoe Murphy, Jack O Shea, Mick Galwey (Currow) capt., John Kennedy, Maurice Fitzgerald (1-2, 2 frees), Timmy Fleming (1-2), Michael McAuliffe (1-0), Eoin Liston (1-1), Pat Spillane (0-2). Subs: Tommy Doyle for L. Hartnett; Willie Maher (1-0) for J. Kennedy; Pa Dennehy for M. McAuliffe.

Limerick: Mick McLoughlin, Eugene Leonard, Paddy Ivers, Joe Reddington, Willie Roche, T. Browne, Liam Barrett, Noel Leonard, P. Potter, T. Kelly, Paddy Barrett, Eoin Sheehan (0-4, frees), Timmy Cummins (1-1), Donal Fitzgibbon (0-1), Fintan Ryan. Subs: Seanie Gleeson (0-3, 1 free) for T. Cummins; T. Quaid for T. Kelly; Gerry Hamilton for P. Potter.

 

Challenge on Sun. 9^th July at Ballybunion: Kerry 0-7; Dublin 0-11.

Kerry: Charlie Nelligan, Mick Spillane, Tommy Doyle, J. Stack, Robbie O Dwyer, Tommy Spillane (0-1), Connie Murphy, Fintan Ashe, Dermot Hannifin, Sean Geaney, Ogie Moran (0-1), Timmy Fleming (0-1, free), Pat O Shea (Dr. Crokes), Eoin Liston (0-2), Pat Spillane (0-1). Subs: Pa Dennehy for D. Hannifin (inj.), Michael McAuliffe (0-1, free) for P. O Shea, Morgan Nix for T. Doyle, T. Doyle for S. Geaney.

 

Final trial on Sun. 16^th July at Scartaglin: Blues 4-14; Whites 0-10.

Joe Shannon played at left half-forward, scoring 0-3, on the Blues and Timmy Fleming at right full-forward, scoring 0-4.

Final on Sun. 23^rd July at Killarney: Kerry 1-9; Cork 1-12.

Timmy Fleming had a solid game. Joe Shannon was replaced in the second half.

Kerry: Charlie Nelligan (capt), Ken Savage, Ambrose O Donovan (1-0), Mick Spillane, Connie Murphy, Tommy Doyle, Morgan Nix, Jack O Shea, Tommy Spillane, Timmy Fleming, Maurice Fitzgerald (0-6, frees), Joe Shannon, Willie Maher, Eoin Liston (0-1), Pat Spillane (0-2). Subs: Anthony Gleeson for   M. Spillane (halftime); Michael McAuliffe for J. Shannon (43^rd min); Pa Dennehy for W. Maher (58^th min), Robbie O Dwyer, Eamonn Walsh, Fintan Ashe, Johnny Stack, Sean Geaney and Mick Galway.

Cork: John Kerins, Stephen O Brien, Denis Walsh, Jimmy Kerrigan, Tony Davis, Conor Counihan, Barry Coffey, Shay Fahy, Larry Thompkins (0-7, 4 frees & two 45’s), Teddy McCarthy, Dave Barry, John O Driscoll (1-1), Paul McGrath (0-2), Denis Allen (capt) 0-1, John Cleary (0-1). Sub: Michael Slocum for D. Walsh (inj) 9^th min.

1988/’89 National League Div.1

 

Rd. 6 on Sun. 12^th Feb. at Austin Stack Park: Kerry 1-10; Dublin 0-11.

Team & Scorers: Charlie Nelligan, Ken Savage, Tom Spillane, Tommy Doyle, Connie Murphy, Ambrose O Donovan, Eamonn Walsh, Dermot Hanafin, Fionan Murphy, Maurice Fitzgerald (0-7, 6 frees), Anthony Gleeson (0-1), Pat Spillane (0-1), Michael McAuliffe), Eoin liston(0-1), John Kennedy(1-0). Subs: Ger Lynch for F. Murphy; Timmy Fleming for A. Gleeson.

Dublin: John O Leary, Kieran Walsh, Gerry Hargan, Mick Kennedy, Noel mccaffrey, Tommy Carr, Mick Deegan, Paul Bealin, Declan Bolger (0-1), Vinny Murphy, Charlie Redmond (0-1), Barney Roack (0-8, 7 frees), Paul Nugent, Mick Galvin, A. McNally. Subs: Dave Synott for C. Walsh; Eamonn Heary for D. Bolger.

 

Rd. 7 on Sun. 26^th Feb. at Austin Stack Park: Kerry 3-3; Monaghan 0-8.

Team & Scorers: Charlie Nelligan, Ken savage, Tom Spillane, Ger Lynch, Connie Murphy, Ambrose O Donovan, Eamonn Walsh, Jack O Shea (1-0), Tommy Doyle, Maurice Fitzgerald (0-1free), Anthony Gleeson, Pat Spillane, Michael McAuliffe (1-0), Eoin Liston (1-0), John Kennedy (0-2). Subs: Robbie O Dwyer for T. Doyle; Timmy Fleming for P. Spillane, Gerard Murphy, Jack O Shea, Fionán Murphy, John Joe Sheehy.

Monaghan: Paddy Linden, Gerard McGurk, Eugene Sherry, Dermot Jones, Martin McKenna, Frank McEnery, Declan Flanagan, Bernard Murray, Seamus McElroy, Raymond Kelly (0-4, frees), Michael Caulfield, Ger Hoey, Ray McCarron (0-3, 2 frees and a ‘45’), Eamonn Murphy (0-1), Nudie Hughes. Subs: Brendan O Duffy for D. Flanagan (inj) at halftime.

 

Quarter-Final on Sun. 26^th March at Croke Park: Kerry 3-10; Antrim 1-9.

Team & Scorers: Charlie Nelligan, Ken Savage, Tommy Spillane, Robbie O Dwyer, Connie Murphy, Ambrose O Donovan, Eamonn Walsh, Dermot Hanafin, Jack O Shea (0-2), Timmy Fleming, Tommy Doyle (0-1), Pat Spillane (0-1), Michael McAuliffe (1-3), Eoin Liston (1-1), John Kennedy. Subs: Sean Geaney (1-2) for J. Kennedy (inj); Fionán Murphy for D. Hanafin (inj), Gerard Murphy, John Joe Sheehy.

 

Semi-Final on Sun. 9^th April at Páirc Uí Chaoimh: Cork 0-10; Kerry 0-4.

A dreadful performance! Timmy Fleming played very well at midfield on Teddy McCarthy. It was only when Timmy was moved out of midfield that Kerry collapsed.

Kerry: C. Nelligan, K. Savage, T. Spillane, G. Lynch, C. Murphy, T. Doyle, E. Walsh, A. O Donovan, T. Fleming, M. Fitzgerald (0-3, 2 frees), J. O Shea, P. Spillane (0-1), M. McAuliffe, E. Liston, S. Geaney. Subs: Gerard Murphy for S. Geaney (51 mins); A. Gleeson for P. Spillane (53 mins), Robbie O Dwyer, Fionán Murphy, John Kennedy, Morgan Nix, John Walsh..

Cork: John Kerins, Niall Cahillane, Tony Davis, Jimmy Kerrigan, Michael Slocum, Conor Counihan, Stephen O Brien, Teddy McCarthy (0-1), Barry Coffey (0-1), Paul McGrath, Dave Barry (0-1), Tony Nation, Denny Allen, John O Driscoll (0-1), E. O Mahony (0-2). Subs: Larry Thompkins (0-4, 3 frees) for T. Nation; Colman Corrigan for J. O Driscoll.

1989/’90 National League Div. 1

 

Rd. 1 on Sun. 22^nd Oct. at Austin Stack Park: Kerry 0-18; Down 3-11.

Gerard Murphy was Kerry’s most impressive forward on view. He scored 6 points and he could have had a goal near the end but an acrobatic save of his piledriver by the goalie deflected the ball over the bar. Timmy Fleming got a good point. Both Billy O Sullivan and Joe Shannon were subs (in fact Joe Shannon was injured). That game was played under the ‘new’ rules, which allowed free kicks to be taken off the hand, in an effort to speed up the game and there were 4 quarters instead of the 2 halves. It was Mickey O Sullivan’s first game in charge, after the retiral of Mick O Dwyer. Selectors – Kevin Griffin, Seanie Walsh,

Kerry: Charlie Nelligan, Donal McCarthy (Kenmare), Jack O Shea, Morgan Nix, Connie Murphy (0-1), Sean Burke (Milltown), John Walsh (Austin Stacks), Ambrose O Donovan, Fintan Ashe (Dingle)0-1, Gerard Murphy (0-6), Maurice Fitzgerald (0-5, 3 frees), Timmy Fleming (0-1), Pa Dennehy, Kieran Culhane (0-2), Sean Geaney (0-1). Subs: John Lordan (Desmonds) 0-1 for P. Dennehy; Stephen Stack (Listowel) for J. Walsh.

Down: Pat Donnan, D.J. Keane, Phelim Leneghan, Marin Mcgivern, Paul Higgins (0-1), Paddy O Rourke, Ross Carr (0-1), Eamonn Burns (0-1), Barry Breen, Cathal Murray (1-2), John Treanor (0-1), Bryan Irwin, Conor Deegan, Micky Linden (2-4), Tony McArdle (0-1).

Rd. 3 on Sun. 19^th Nov. at Ballyshannon: Donegal 0-11; Kerry 0-10.

That was Kerry’s first ever league encounter with Donegal and it was lost with the last kick of the game – a free by Manus Boyle.

Kerry: Charlie Nelligan, Donal McCarthy, Sean Burke, John Walsh, Connie Murphy, Ambrose O Donovan, Stephen Stack, Anthony Gleeson, Fintan Ashe, Timmy Fleming, Kieran Culhane (0-3), Joe Shannon, Owen Moynihan (0-2), Maurice Fitzgerald (0-4, 1 free, one 45), Gerard Murphy (0-1). Subs: Jack O Shea for A. Gleeson (halftime); Morgan Nix for J. Walsh (32 mins); Liam Kerins for G. Murphy (45 mins).

Donegal: Gary Walsh, Matt Gallagher, Sean Bonner, Brian Tuohy, Donal Reid (0-1), Paul Carr, Martin Shovlin, Martin Gavigan (0-1), Anthony Molloy, Joyce McMullan, Charlie Mulgrew, Gerry Curran (0-3), Martin McHugh (0-3), Manus Boyle (0-3), Barry McGowan. Subs: Sylvester Maguire for B. McGowan; Brian Murray for C. Mulgrew; James McHugh for J. McMullan, Danny Gallagher, Jim Gallagher, Martin Carlin, Declan Bonner, Luke Gavigan, Diarmuid Keon.

Rd. 4 on Sun. 3^rd Dec. at Austin Stack Park: Kerry 0-6; Armagh 1-7.

Both Billy O Sullivan and Timmy Fleming came on in the second quarter and both displayed industry and effort but the attack as a whole lacked zip and dynamic finishing power.

Kerry: C. Nelligan, D. McCarthy, S. Burke, M. Nix, C. Murphy, A. O Donovan, S. Stack, F. Ashe, J. Shannon (0-1), G. Murphy (0-1), K. Culhane, M. Fitzgerald (0-3, 2 frees), O. Moynihan, J. O Shea (0-1), P. Dennehy. Subs: T. Fleming for P. Dennehy; Billy O Sullivan for O. Moynihan; Anthony  Gleeson for F. Ashe.

Armagh: Brendan Tierney, Leo McGeary, Garrett O Neill, Brian Canavan, Alan Short, John Toner, Colin Hanratty, Niall Smith (1-1), Kieran McGurk, Oliver Ree l(0-3 frees), Martin McQuillan, Damien Horish, Shane Skelton, Declan Canavan, Jim McConville (0-3, 1 free). Subs: Ger Hourigan for S. Skelton, Kieran McGeeley for J. McConville.

Co. Junior Hurling Championship

Semi-final in August: St. Mary’s drew with Kerins O Rahillys.

Semi-final replay in Aug: St. Marys drew with Kerins O Rahillys.

Semi-final (second replay) on Wed. 6^th Sept. at Connolly Park: Kerins O Rahillys beat St. Mary’s.

Kerins O Rahillys went on to win the final.

 

 Co. U-12 Hurling – Div. 2B

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

 

Laune Rangers lost to Kenmare and defeated both St. Pats and St. Mary’s.

 

Semi-final on Sun. 16^th July at Connolly Park: Laune Rangers defeated Lixnaw.

Ref: Brian Neenan (Austin Stacks).

 

Final on Sat. 29^th July at Kilcummin: Kenmare 7-6; Laune Rangers 2-4

Leading by 1-3 to nil after ten minutes, things seemed too good to be true, as indeed they were. Once Kenmare began to solve the congestion at midfield, with some cute hand-passing the scores came and the boys in red went on to win. The scoreline, however, did not reflect the brilliance of Brian Gannon and, team captain, John O Sullivan, nor the rugged play of Joe Hayes.

Laune Rangers Panel: Anthony Reen, T.J. Cronin, Johnny Lynch, Trevor Gannon, Adam Stack, Nelius Lynch, Mike Russell, John O Sullivan, Brian Gannon, Padraig Jones, David Lynch, Joe Hayes, Pa O Sullivan, John Hearne, Noel Purcell, Owen O Connell, Donal Lynch, Shane Harmon, Pat Leahy.

Ref: Dan Kelliher (Dr. Crokes).

 

U-14 Hurling

 

On Hallowe’en Eve, Laune Rangers’ two outstanding U-14 hurlers, Liam Hassett and Mark Conway, captained two nine-a-side skeleton teams. The prize was a set of barm-bracks, sportingly donated by O Sullivan’s Bakery. Liam Hassett’s coven of winners was well inspired by their leader’s hurling sorcery, while Mark Conway made no bones about his intentions, ghosting through for some magical scores. Indeed for a spell in the first half, Liam’s men had their ‘bracks’ to the wall. Eerie umpiring, grave mistakes by the referee and a banshee wind, turned the match into a cauldron and all were glad to vanish into the dressingroom at full time.

Team ‘A’: Liam Hassett, Colm Leahy, Pat Leahy, Kieran Leahy, Anthony Reen, John O Sullivan, Eamonn Clifford, Colm Conway and Adam Stack.

Team ‘B’: Mark Conway, Liam Hearne, John Hearne, Pa O Sullivan, Padraig Jones, David Lynch, Aidan Leahy, Shane Harmon and Brendan O Doherty.

 

Administration/Miscellany

 

John Dowling, Uíbh Fhaillí, was Uachtarán CLG.

Annual Congress was held in the Grand Hotel, Malahide on Sat. 1^st/Sun. 2^nd April. James Coffey, Laune Rangers, was on the Kerry delegation.

 

The Annual Convention of the Munster Council was held in Páirc Uí Chaoimh on Fri. 3^rd March. Michael Maher (Tiobrad Árainn) was elected as Chairman, Donie Nealon (Tiobrad Árainn) was Secretary and Tadhg Crowley (Ciarraí) was Treasurer. James Coffey was on the Kerry delegation.

 

County Convention was held on Sun. 15^th Jan. 1989 in the Mount Brandon Hotel, Tralee.

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, Delegate to Central Council – Gerald McKenna, Delegates to Munster Council – Dave Geaney and Gerald Whyte, Oifigeach na Gaeilge – Diarmuid Ó Murchú, PRO – Eamonn O Sullivan, Development Officer – Sean Walsh, Youth Officer – Joe Langan.

Senior Football Selection Committee (elected by postal vote at the Co. Board meeting on Tues. 13^th Sept. 1988): Mick O Dwyer (appointed), Sean Walsh (Kerins O Rahillys) 148 votes, Kevin Griffin (Glenbeigh) 139, Eddie O Sullivan (Dr. Crokes) 120, Pat Brosnan (Brosna) 93, all elected, Liam Higgins (81), Tim Kennelly (47). Gerald White was the returning officer for the vote, while Frank King, Derry Sheehan, Tom Keane and Jerome Conway acted as tellers.

Co. Minor Football Selection Committee (elected in Dec. 1988): Jackie Walsh, Ballylongford (appointed), Mikey Sheehy (Austin Stacks), Dan O Sullivan (Currow), Jim Wrenn (Churchill), and Michael Price (Kenmare).

Co. U21 Football Selection Committee: Buddy O Grady (appointed), Donie O Leary, Rathmore (129 votes), P.J. O Donovan, St. Mary’s (124), Michael McCarthy, Milltown/Castlemaine (121), Eric Brown, Emmet’s (110), all elected, Frank Wallace, Ardfert (108).

The Kerryman carried this report: ‘Bart Moriarty, Sec. of the Co. Referees’ Committee, in his report to Convention stated that some club delegates had the neck to stand up at Co. Board meetings and criticise the referees and the Referees’ Committee. “Let him come forward with a formula to improve the standard of refereeing and get away from the water pump attitude, which is more relevant to forty years ago,” stated the report. “These people are far too long involved in GAA affairs and in my opinion they bring the GAA into disrepute,”it went on. “I suggest to the Co. Board, if this type of exhibition is repeated in the future, the culprit should be expelled from the association. There is no room in the GAA of today for the person or persons who look after their own affairs and have no input to the running of our games. They act the hurlers on the ditch at all times. They criticise our Co. Board officers, our selectors at all levels but, thank God, our minor selectors proved them all wrong and, no doubt, our senior selectors will do likewise in time. Of course, the referee is a sitting duck but when their team wins the same referee is very good. As they say, “We couldn’t fault him.” Tom Keane took exception to the remarks in the report and said that the report should not have been printed without having been vetted firstly. Jerome Conway, Laune Rangers, said he knew how hard Bart worked. “He has a genuine interest in refereeing,” continued Mr. Conway, “It’s a very hard job. What Tom Keane said about him (Bart) is slightly unfair. I think that it is unfair of Tom Keane to ostracise Bart Moriarty. His comment about him coming in the back door is not in very good taste. There are very few people who would do the job as good as he is doing it.”

The Laune Rangers Club delegates to Co. Convention were Jerome Conway, John Evans, Liam Shannon and John Clifford.

 

Bart Moriarty was re-appointed as Secretary of the Kerry Referees’ Committee for the eleventh successive year at the Co. Board meeting on Mon. 23^rd Feb. Joe Langan was appointed as the new Chairman.

 

Bord na nOg Chiarraí held its Annual Convention on Mon. 12^th Dec. 1988 in the Pavilion, Austin Stack Park. The following officers were elected: President – Sylvie Mason (John Mitchels), Chairman – John Fitzpatrick (Kerins O Rahillys), Vice-Chairman – Michael O Callaghan (Kilcummin), Secretary – Maurice O Sullivan (Ballyheigue), Fixtures Secretary – Paudie County (Ballyduff), Treasurer – Michael Sweeney (Ballymacelligott), Registrar – John Mike McCarthy (St. Brendan’s), PRO – Willie O Connor (Kerins O Rahillys), GPC – Patsy Cremin (Spa), Finbarr Carrig (Tarbert), Liam Ó Rócháin (An Ghaeltacht), Pat Pigott (Laune Rangers), Christy Killeen (Finuge), Derry Sheehan (Desmonds). Laune Rangers Club was awarded ‘Club of the Year’. Pat Pigott accepted the trophy, which the club had previously won in 1975.

 

The Mid-Kerry Board AGM was held in the Beaufort Club Pavilion on Sun. 8^th Jan. 1989. The following officers were elected: President – Murt Kelly (Beaufort); Chairman – Michael McCarthy (Milltown/Castemaine); Vice-Chairman – Noel Spillane (Beaufort); Secretary – Maurice Harmon (Laune Rangers); Treasurer – Michael Curran (Beaufort); PRO – John Dowling (Keel). Laune Rangers Club motion that they be allowed to enter two teams in the Mid-Kerry League was defeated.

 

Keel organised Mid-Kerry Bord na nOg in 1989. Tim Foley was Chairman and Sean Sheehy was Secretary.

 

The AGM of the South-Kerry Hurling Board took place in the Park Place Hotel, Killarney in January. The following officers were elected: President – Richie Purcell, Vice-Presidents – Gary Scollard and Bro. Murphy, Chairman – P.J. McIntyre (Kenmare), Secretary – Jim O Malley (Killorglin), Treasurer – Michael Leahy (St. Pat’s), PRO – Noel O Connor (Austin Stacks).

 

The minutes of 13 Laune Rangers Club meetings are available.

At the meeting on 9^th Jan. the Co. Board draw was discussed. The quota of tickets for Laune Rangers was 50. Arrangements were made for a meeting of all senior players and selectors to discuss strategy for the year.

At the meeting of 20^th Feb., the club decided to write to the Mid-Kerry Board to protest in the strongest possible manner at the treatment received by Patsy Joy and Maurice Corkery in Cromane on Sun. 19^th Feb. when the gate of the field was slammed in their faces and they were refused admission as they attempted to attend a game. At the meeting of the Mid-Kerry Board on 6^th March, at which the letter from Laune Rangers was read, the Cromane delegate, Frank Walsh, stated that it was for their own good that the Laune Rangers members were not allowed entry. The Chairman, Michael McCarthy, stated that no club was entitled to do this and no person could be refused entry and he instructed Cromane that letters of apology must be sent to Laune Rangers and to their two members involved. The Cromane delegate stated that that would be done.

As part of the centenary celebrations, an exhibition of trophies and photographs was planned for the mini-theatre in the CYMS during Easter.

Laune Rangers was to receive services of three Fás workers to help with the maintenance of the J.P. O Sullivan Park.

At the meeting on 10^th March, James Coffey reported that he had procured concrete seating from the Fitzgerald Stadium, Killarney. The Co. Board draw was progressed and the Cromane situation was discussed.

At the meeting of 20^th March arrangements were made for the Centenary Exhibition in the CYMS. The rota was as follows: Holy Thursday (23^rd March) – Liam Shannon and Pat Pigott (8pm to 9pm); Good Friday – Tommy Woods and Donal Pigott (8pm to 9pm); Holy Saturday – Jerome Conway and Pat Pigott (8pm to 9pm); Easter Sunday – John Purcell and Donal Pigott (8pm to 9pm). Arrangements were made for the Club Table Quiz. Lee Strand would sponsor the Co. Leagues for another three years. It was decided to call an EGM to discuss the Cromane proposal for the opening of the parish at senior level and the granting to Laune Rangers control of all teams from minor and under.

The EGM of the club discussed the Cromane proposal on Thurs. 6^th April and rejected it. However, a counter proposal was made to Cromane Club.

At the meeting on 15^th May it was reported that the club had sold 224 tickets for the Co. Board Draw. The possibility of acquiring extra playing facilities was discussed – Ray Sheehy and Austin O Reilly were to be contacted.

At the meeting on 17^th July final arrangements were made for the hosting of the Kingdom Club, London. J. & M. Oils sponsored a set of jerseys for the Senior team.

At the meeting of the club on 11^th Sept. arrangements were made for the Co. Senior Final. It was decided to make headbands and flags for sale prior to the game. It was announced that Eddie O Donoghue was sponsoring togs for the senior team (£187), Mike McCarthy (Larkin’s Bar, Milltown) was sponsoring socks for the senior team (£72) and John Purcell was sponsoring socks for the minor team (£72). Michael McSweeney, Mountain View, commenced in the field as part of the Fás scheme. It was decided to hold a church-gate collection.

Final arrangements were made for the Co. Senior Final at the club meeting on 24^th Sept., with the club agreeing to pay for any meals in excess of 40 after the game – The Killarney Heights Hotel (Bernie O Riordan) had volunteered to sponsor 40 meals.

Final field arrangements were made at the club meeting on 5^th Oct. for the forthcoming Munster Club Championship game versus Clonmel Commercials.

 

Laune Rangers Club jumpers, with official crest, were available for the first time. Also on sale at various outlets in the town were flags and headbands.

 

James O Shea, Patie Casey and William Joy applied to the Co. Board to transfer from Cromane to Laune Rangers, which they were entitled to do under the agreement between the two clubs, which granted a player, living in Cromane, who had previously played with Laune Rangers, permission to apply to return to the club. As in other disagreements between the clubs, Cromane representatives were very scarce with the truth and invoked the help of some gullible local journalists in their quest to vilify Laune Rangers.

The Kerryman of 3^rd March carried the following report: “The alleged ‘poaching’ of players from a neighbouring club is to be the subject of an investigation by the officers of the Co. Board. This follows a claim at Monday night’s meeting of the Co. Board in Tralee by the Cromane Club that two of their young players had been approached by the Laune Rangers Club to play with them. Officials of the Cromane Club, the youngest in the county, told the Board meeting that the possible transfer of two of their leading players to Laune Rangers could spell the death-knell for the Cromane Club. Frank Walsh (Cromane) objected to the legality and manner of the Laune Rangers Club’s approaches to Kerry U-21 players James O Shea and Patrick Casey. ‘Laune Rangers’ selectors approached the two players, puttingh terrible pressure on them,’ claimed Mr. Walsh. But the allegation was vehemently refuted by Jerome Conway (Laune Rangers). Mr. Conway said the players in question had intimated their desire to play with the town team as long ago as twelve months. He said that the club trainer, Noel O Mahony, had contacted the players in question to reassure them of a fair deal. He referred to the Munster Council agreement, struck when the Cromane Club was founded, that clearly entitled players who had played with Killorglin at juvenile level to again join the club. Rejecting this, Frank Walsh said that if the Cromane Club collapsed, it would be a great shame. Emigration had already deprived them of senior players and he doubted if the club could survive further losses in numbers. He said that at a club meeting last January the two players in question had said they were happy to play for Cromane. But, subsequently, pressure had been applied. ‘We don’t see any grounds for a transfer,’ said the Cromane official. The Chairman, Sean Kelly, said he understood Cromane’s difficulties, being a small, young club. It was a matter of concern for all small GAA clubs. ‘All we can do is seek Munster Council advice and make a decision for the next Board meeting on their interpretation of the Rules,’ added the Chairman.”

The Kerryman of Fri. 17^th March carried this report: “Laune Rangers’ representative on Kerry Co. Board, Jerome Conway, moved this week to have what he described as serious allegations against his club withdrawn. His call for a withdrawal came at Monday’s (23^rd Jan. 1989) meeting of the Kerry Co. Board in the conflict between Cromane and Laune Rangers clubs over the transfer of three players to the Killorglin side. At a meeting behind closed doors on Tuesday night, in which the executive of the Co. Board investigated the matter, calling in both the players and clubs involved, the three transfers were allowed to go ahead. Sources said afterwards, however, that progress has been made towards a settlement in the dispute. Both sides were given proposals to bring back to their respective clubs to discuss. Cromane had objected to the legality and manner of the transfers, saying that pressure to transfer was put on the players by officials from Laune Rangers club. At Monday’s Board meeting Jerome Conway submitted letters from the players at the centre of the transfer investigation ordered by the Co. Board, saying they applied for transfers off their own bat, without any advances from Laune Rangers officials. Cromane delegate, Frank Walsh, disputed these letters, however, saying that the players may have favoured his club if they had been approached to do so. And he reiterated his charge against Laune Rangers that they were pressurising players to leave Cromane in favour of Laune Rangers. ‘The visit they made to get those letters must be the 25^th visit in the last couple of weeks,’ he said. He insisted that he was expressing the view of Cromane people on what they saw happening in the area. As Co. Board delegate for the club, he felt entitled to do this. ‘We still stand over what we said and I think the crucial issue is the legality of the transfers – it is just wasting the Board’s time arguing about these things.’ The County Board had referred the issue to the Munster Council for decision, as the Council had been involved in drawing up the agreement between Laune Rangers and Cromane when the latter club had been founded. But the Munster Council handed the matter back to the Co. Board without a decision, saying that it was a matter for them to deal with. The Co. Board agreed to call in the players and the clubs involved to a special meeting of the executive. Jerome Conway claimed at Monday’s meeting that at no stage did Laune Rangers attempt to entice the players. ‘Unsubstantiated accusations were made against our club,’ said Mr. Conway. He pointed out that Laune Rangers had expressed reservations about the viability of Cromane Club when it was being formed and that the Co. Board pledged to stand over an agreement between the clubs if any difficulties arose. That agreement allowed players who played juvenile football with Laune Rangers and who went to Cromane, on the foundation of the fledgling club, to transfer to Laune Rangers again if they wished. ‘When the agreement was drawn up the County Board said they would stand over it to the letter of the law and the first time it is called into question we see the Co. Board wavering,’ he said.’

 

An EGM of the Laune Rangers Club was convened on Thurs. 6^th April to discuss Cromane’s proposal, which had been put at the recent Co. Board meeting. 70 members attended to hear the proposal, ‘that the Killorglin Parish be declared an open area for both clubs, Laune Rangers and Cromane, in return for which a minor club in the parish would look after all the juveniles.’ After much discussion, the members decided to abide by the original agreement, which had been drawn up by the Munster Council. It was decided, also, to offer Cromane the following, provided they decided to cease to be a club: ‘That the parish would have one ‘A’ team, one ‘B’ team consisting of the next best players and would be called Cromane and one ‘C’ team consisting of the next best players.’

There was never a question of any official from Laune Rangers either pressurising or coaxing any of those players to transfer. Patie Casey and James O Shea had asked us to invite Cromane to rejoin Laune Rangers as our second string team, which would be called Cromane – the best players would play with our senior team and the remaining players in the parish would play with Cromane. It was said that when the Laune Rangers letter was being read at the Cromane meeting, someone threw a box of matches towards the top table. In any event the offer was rejected and the players decided to transfer.

 

On Wed. 15^th February, Danny Cahill was awarded Munster Young Footballer of the year (1988), which was sponsored by the Cork Examiner. Danny, his parents, Mattie and Hannah, and Jerome Conway attended the Cork Examiner Munster Youth Sports Star Awards in the Imperial Hotel, Cork to accept the award. For that award, clubs from all over Munster had been invited to send entries, stating why their player should be given this prestigious award. Jerome Conway had sent in the entry on behalf of Danny Cahill, who had captained the All-Ireland winning Minor Football team in 1988.

 

On Thurs. 16^th Feb. a players’ meeting was held to discuss a) two teams in the Mid-Kerry League and b) the A and B teams’ strategy for the year.

 

In London, Pat O Mahony, Templenoe and former Laune Rangers player, was re-elected as Chairman of The Kingdom Club. In his address to the club’s convention he urged the senior players to make an all out effort to recapture the London S.F. Championship. Christy Kissane was re-elected Vice-Chairman of the club. Pat O Mahony was elected as senior selector, also, and Christy Kissane as ‘B’ team selector.

 

At the club meeting of 20^th Feb. it was reported that a new Hurling team had been formed, with players from Killorglin, Listry and Firies. The club was called St. Mary’s Hurling Club. Pat Lynch was the delegate to Co. Board. Laune Rangers decided to retain a juvenile hurling team within the club.

 

The long drawn-out ‘Danny Kissane Affair’ drew to a close. It cost the club £5,500 in compensation to Danny Kissane, £1,000 for Kissane’s costs and £500 for the club’s costs. This solution was worked out following a meeting in Danny Kissane’s house involving Mr. & Mrs. Kissane, James Coffey, Jerome Conway and Owen Mangan.

 

On Tues. 7^th March, Joe Shannon, based in Dingle, set off to Australia as part of a touring AIB football team for four weeks. The team was drawn from AIB personnel in Ireland and England.

 

On Tues. 4^th April the Laune Rangers Club ran a table-quiz in The Manor Inn as a fund raising venture. There were 25 tables at £20 per table. Quiz-master – Vincent Moriarty N.T.; Scoreboard – Pierce Prendiville; Correctors – Tommy Woods, Pierce Prendiville and Jerome Conway; Question collectors – Pat Pigott, Donal Pigott and Peter Lyons. Results: 1^st The Manor Inn (£100); 2^nd Beaufort GAA Club (£60); 3^rd Currow GAA Club (£40).

 

On Friday 14^th April, the 1988 Co. Communications Awards were presented at a dinner in Ostán na Sceilge, An Daingean. Tommy Woods received the award for the best Urban Club Secretary’s Report to the club’s AGM. The award was presented by Seán Kelly, Chairman of the Kerry Co. Board. Those present from the club included Tommy and Kay Woods, Jerome Conway and Eva Conway. The occasion was suitably celebrated!

 

The death occurred in England on 9^th April of Denny O Neill, Sunhill. He had been an outstanding player with Laune Rangers and Mid-Kerry in the 1950’s.

Liam Foley, former principal of Scoil Mhuire and former player with the club, died suddenly in June. He had played with Laune Rangers in the 1930’s.

 

The Kingdom football team visited Killorglin on July 22^nd/23^rd. They were picked up in Farranfore at 5pm on Sat. 22^nd and Laune Rangers played The Kingdom at 7.00pm. That was preceded by a game between Christy Kissane’s Pub and Noel Lucey’s Pub (The Shamrock). The Kingdom party was the guest of Laune Rangers in Bunkers for a meal at 9.30pm and at The Shamrock afterwards.

 

The Kerry Inter-firm Junior Final took place on Fri. 7^th July at Páirc Eamonn, Farranfore. Radiac, Castleisland beat Klinge by 1-10 to 0-11. Gerard Murphy, at centre half-forward, played very well for Klinge, which had other good performers in Pat Twiss, Pat Kelliher, M. Tighe and John Carroll.

 

Laune Rangers held a Church Gate Collection on Sat. 23^rd/Sun. 24^th Sept. to help defray the cost of preparing for the Co. Senior and Minor Football Finals.

 

Ann O Brien, Ardmoniel, is an aunt to Stephen O Brien, who played at fullback on the Cork team that beat Meath in the All-Ireland Senior Football Final and who was just nineteen years of age. His grandmother also resided in Ardmoniel.

 

The unexpected death occurred of Cathal Crowley, Laharn, on 7^th November. He had been a member of the U-14 Football panel that had lost the Co. Final to Gaeltacht but had won the Mid-Kerry Championship. His team-mates and school-mates formed a guard of honour at his funeral to Dromavalla Cemetery.

 

The death occurred in Dublin in November of Tom Fitzpatrick, late of Douglas. He had given a lifetime promoting the GAA in Dublin, where he had been a prominent member of Na Fianna Club. He had been one of the chief stewards at Croke Park for many years.

 

Patrick O Shea refereed the following game, amongst others, for the Mid-Kerry Board:

Senior League on Sat. 8^th April at Beaufort: Beaufort 1-12; Keel 0-3.

 

Michael O Reilly refereed the following game, amongst others, for Co. Bord na nOg:

U-14 Div. 2 football final on 28^th May at Milltown: Na Gaeil 2-8; Kilcummin 1-3.

 

Michael O Reilly refereed the following game, amongst others, for the Mid-Kerry Board:

Senior Championship Final on Sat. 11^th Nov. at Beaufort: Beaufort 0-5; Milltown/Castlemaine 0-9.

The following were other Laune Rangers Club referees for 1989: Bart Moriarty and Michael O Sullivan (Tullig).

 

As Laune Rangers did not have a ladies football team, some players played with Beaufort.

NFL (junior) on Sun. 16^th April at Beaufort: Kerry 1-7; Wexford 1-6.

Elaine McGillycuddy played at right fullback.

Munster Ladies Football Final on Sat. 26^th Aug. at Connolly Park: Kerry 1-8; Waterford 0-7.

Jacqueline McGillycuddy, having come on as a substitute, played a major role in that victory. Elaine McGillycuddy was also a substitute.

All-Ireland Ladies Football Final on Sun. 8^th Oct. at Croke Park: Kerry 1-14; Wexford 1-6.

That was Kerry’s eighth title in-a-row. Elaine and Jacqueline McGillycuddy were substitutes.

Co. Ladies Football Semi-final on Sat. 9^th Sept. at Milltown: Beaufort 2-6; Castleisland 1-8.

Elaine and Jacqueline McGillycuddy played with Beaufort.

Co. Ladies Football Final on Mon. 30^th Oct. at Castleisland: Austin Stacks 1-5; Beaufort 2-0.

Elaine McGillycuddy played at right fullback and Jacqueline McGillycuddy played at midfield.

 

Annual Laune Rangers Social on Fri. 15^th Dec. in the Castle Heights Hotel, Killarney.

Over 300 people sat down to dinner. Micheal O Mahony, that great Laune Ranger supporter, wrote in his scrapbook: ‘The display of trophies on view was an inspiring reminder to all that 1989 was indeed the greatest of their 101 years existence and for it to happen exactly 100 years after their first county championship was surely an added bonus. Never before in Kerry had a team won the Co. Championship and Co. League along with Co. Minor Championship and League.”

Speakers included Sean Kelly, Chairman Kerry Co. Board; Michael McCarthy, Chairman Mid-Kerry Board; Jerome Conway, Chairman Laune Rangers Club and Canon Keane. 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, instilled a new spirit into the Irish over a century previously.  Presentations were made to the following players-of-the-year: Senior – Gerard Murphy; ‘B’ team – Michael O Reilly; Minor – Timmy Corkery. Presentations were, also, made to Noel O Mahony, senior team trainer, to Tommy Woods (Secretary), and Jerome Conway (Chairman) – the latter two were not seeking re-election for 1990.

The wonderful playing of Myles Coffey, Patrick Doyle and Christy O Riordan added to a great occasion.

 

Co. Senior Football Final on Sun. 24^th Sept. at Killarney: Laune Rangers 2-13; John Mitchels 1-6.

Co Minor Football Final on Sat. 16^th Sept. at Tralee: Laune Rangers 2-12; St. Brendan’s 0-8.

Co. U-21 Football Final on Sun. 26^th Nov. at Tralee: West-Kerry 2-6; Shannon Rangers 0-7.

Co. Intermediate Football Final on Sun. 12^th Nov. at Tralee: Dingle 2-9; Kenmare 1-10.

Co. Junior Football Final (replay) on Sat. 21^st Oct. at Castleisland: Brosna 0-9; Knocknagoshel 1-5.

Co. Novice Football Final on Sun. 8^th Oct: St. Patrick’s, Blennerville 1-7; Kilgarvan 0-2.

Co. Club Championship Final on Sun. 17^th Dec. at Milltown: Annascaul 2-9; Dr. Crokes 1-9.

Co. Club ‘B’ Final on Fri. 22^nd Sept. at Tralee: Austin Stacks ‘B’ 2-7; Annascaul ‘B’ 0-4.

Co. Football League Division 1 Champions – Laune Rangers.

 

The results of the General Election in the South-Kerry Constituency in June were as follows: Valid Poll – 31,318, Quota – 7,830. Elected – John O Leary (FF), John O Donoghue (FF) and Michael Moynihan (Lab.).

 

The AGM of Callanfercy Soccer Club was held at the end of June. The following officers were elected: President – Cormac Johnston, Vice-President – John Joe O Sullivan, Chairman – Ger Counihan, Vice-Chairman – Tom Johnston, Hon. Secretary – Dodo Sheahan, Hon. Treasurer – Dominic Crowley, PRO – Pat O Donnell.

 

It was announced in October that a £1 million 18-hole golf course would be built on the 133 acres of land owned by Billy Dodd, former Laune Rangers player at Tinnahalla.

 

The Annual Convention of the Mid-Kerry Board was held in the Manor Inn, Killorglin on Tues. 30^th Jan. 1990. Secretary, Maurice Harmon, in a comprehensive report, stated that Mid-Kerry football had shown a good improvement on former years and the minors had reached the county semi-final, in which they were defeated by Laune Rangers. He congratulated Laune Rangers on winning the Co. Championship and League in both senior and minor grades. He also congratulated Milltown/Castlemaine on gaining promotion to Division 1 of the Co. League and on winning the Mid-Kerry Senior Championship. He thanked Keel for running Bord na nOg 1989 and for hosting the Scór competitions. He also thanked the Board’s referees and the clubs, which gave the use of their fields. All the competition within the area were completed but only just. He called for a comprehensive review of the Board’s competitions for the coming year.

 

The AGM of the Laune Rangers club took place in the Manor Inn on Mon. 18th Dec. 1989 at 8pm. The Secretary, Tommy Woods’ report was as follows: ‘For the past two AGM’s I have started my report by stating that the year gone by was by far the most successful in the club’s history. Well, I feel I must repeat myself again this year. The evidence was on display at the Social on last Friday night. 1989 was the year, a year we will all look back on with great memories, none more so than the players, trainers and selectors of all the teams who made it all possible.

Jerome, in his address last year, stated that his wishes for 1989 were that the club would continue to prosper at juvenile and senior level, that the dressing rooms would get a badly needed facelift and that Laune Rangers would be Co. S.F. Champions once again. Well, 2 out of 3 ain’t bad and I feel confident that his 3rd wish regarding the dressing rooms will be granted in the not too distant future.

Very early this year the club held an EGM, which was very well attended. The purpose of this EGM was to discuss proposals put forward by the Co. Board regarding the difficulties about transfers we had with the Cromane club. The Laune Rangers club was accused of poaching players from the Cromane club. These allegations were refuted by our club. Letters were got from the players involved and the players themselves told the Co. Board that they wished to transfer to Laune Rangers of their own free will, which after all they were entitled to do. Then the Co. Board came up with the proposal to make the Killorglin area an open area and that one minor club would look after all the juveniles in the area. After a lively discussion at our EGM it was decided unanimously to stick with the original agreement between ourselves and Cromane drawn up with the Co. Board and the Munster Council.

During the latter half of Easter week this year our Centenary Committee put on a very impressive display of photographs, newspaper clippings, medals and trophies in the CYMS hall. The exhibition was poorly attended. My thanks for this exhibition go mainly to James Coffey and Mícheál O Mahony and to those people who parted with their souvenirs for the duration of the exhibition.

February of this year saw the first of many awards to come to the club. Danny Cahill won the Munster Youth Award for Gaelic Football sponsored by the Cork Examiner.

1989 did not see many changes in the buildings and grounds of the J.P. O Sullivan Park. The field survived the year well and is in good condition at the moment due to the fine weather for most of the year and the work of Paudie Sheahan (Fás), Mike Sweeney (Fás) and Jim Galvin. I cannot say much about our dressing rooms except that they are still standing. I have no doubt that we will all be called upon this year to rectify this. It is the only blemish in what is otherwise the finest club in the county.

Club membership continues to grow, up from 176 to 198. This is due, I’m sure, to the success of the club and to the efficiency of one individual – our registrar, Liam Shannon.

As you can see from the balance sheet, the club is in a reasonably healthy financial position. This is due mostly to the huge success of the Co. Board draw this year. The club targeted 200 tickets – we sold 224. The club also ran a very successful pub-quiz in the Manor Inn this year. Speaking of pub-quizzes, the Laune Rangers team has been successful in the last two quizzes it has entered. There is no doubt but that the club is facing into a few years of heavy expenditure when big money will have to be spent on our dressing rooms – this money will have to be raised. We, the members, must not be found wanting in this regard. Sponsorship was an enormous help to the club this year. There is no doubt but only for the sponsorship of the following, the club would be in a poor state financially: The Credit Union, J. & M. Oils, AIB, Bank of Ireland, O Donoghue Insurances, Michael McCarthy, Marian Lyons, Klinge & Co., The Red Fox, Patrick O Sullivan, Rhetta O Shea, Fexco, Liebig, Bunker’s Bar & Restaurant, Dawn Dairies, Steve Joe Cahillane, The Bianconi Inn, Castle Heights Hotel, Michael Moriarty, John Purcell, Noel Lucey, Starlite Cleaners, The Manor Inn, James Coffey, O Rahilly’s Enterprises, Corkery’s Bar, James O Shea of Clifford’s Tavern, Anthony Shannon, Declan Falvey, Lee Strand, Patrick O Grady and, of course, the Crowley Family – Paddy, Liam, Eamonn and Joseph. The club also had a great response to our church gate collection this year. My thanks to all those who sold Co. Board tickets this year and, especially, to our treasurers, James Coffey and Pat Pigott.

But, as in other years, it is really on the playing field that this club excels. Séamus Murphy, ably assisted by James Ferris and Willie Fitzgerald, are doing great work at their Sunday morning sessions in The Track, passing on the skills of the game to the very young and instilling team work into them, a feature of all our underage teams.

Pat Pigott, our juvenile secretary, reported that we entered all competitions in underage football in Mid-Kerry and in the County and we reached the finals of all of them. For this, only last week, we were presented by Bord na nOg with the trophy for club of the year, which we last won in 1975.

Pride of place this year goes to the U-12’s who captured the Mid-Kerry title, beating Glenbeigh, and the Co. title, beating Kerins O Rahillys in the final. Well done to all concerned, especially Patsy Joy and Bertie Houlihan. Our U-14’s lost the Co. Final to An Gaeltacht but won the Mid-Kerry title, beating Beaufort in the final. Thanks to trainers Pat Pigott and John Clifford. Our U-16’s lost the Co. Final, bowing out to John Mitchels but won the Mid-Kerry title by beating Beaufort. Thanks to Jer Conway. Jerome also trained the Mid-Kerry U-16 team, which won the Co. Divisional Board Championship.

Our U-12 footballers played hosts to Dublin club, Oliver Plunkett’s, early in the year and paid a return visit to Dublin in September. They also took part in the Mid-Kerry Skills Competition. Thanks also to Michael Foley who looked after the U-12 ‘B’ squad this year and to Pierce Prendiville who managed the U-14 ‘B’s’.

The club also participated in Scór na nÓg in Mid-Kerry. We entered for 6 events and won one.

Pat Lynch reported that in the hurling scene this year, the only team affiliated by Laune Rangers Club was the U-12’s. They reached the Div. 2 Co. Final and were beaten by Kenmare. They also travelled out for many challenge matches during the year and participated in the coaching scheme organised by Bord na nÓg. Thanks to trainers Bill Hearne, Maurice Lynch and Joe Crowe.

Other Laune Rangers hurlers were involved with St. Mary’s Hurling Club. The highlight of the year was the winning of the South Kerry League Div. 2 title. Congratulations to the following players who represented Kerry this year: Brian Mangan at minor, Robert Kennedy at U-16 and Liam Hassett at U-14.

Our minor footballers are now unbeaten for two years. Under trainer John Evans they captured the Co League title early in the year by beating Legion in the final. Later in the year they blazed their way to the Co. Minor Championship Final where they comprehensively beat St. Brendan’s. This team supplied 5 county minors this year – Captain, Billy O Sullivan, Timmy Corkery (club minor player of the year), Eoin Joy, Pa Murphy and, for a time, Billy O Shea. Indeed 3 of these minors have now won 3 Co. Minor Championship medals – Billy, Timmy and Eoin – a inique record and Eoin is a minor again next year. The Mid-Kerry final has not yet been played. Beaufort provides the opposition. Thanks again to coach, John Evans and selectors, Maurice Corkery and Jerome Conway, for a wonderful year.

Our entry in the Co. U-21 Championship this year was short lived. We went out at the first hurdle to South Kerry. I must point out that the timing of this competition was very bad from our point of view. Many of the players involved were training very hard for both the Co. Senior and Minor Finals, when this game was played on a Friday night and as a result our performance suffered. Thanks to trainer James Sheehan. Congratulations to Co. U-21 players Timmy Fleming, Shane O Sullivan, James O Shea and Liam Foley.

The Senior ‘B’ team was not going to be outshone by anyone else this year. They created their own piece of history by winning the Co. League Div. 4 title. They also captured the Mid-Kerry ‘B’ Championship. Great credit is due to selectors John Purcell, Maurice Corkery, Seamus O Sullivan and Edward Stack.

Pride of place this year goes to our senior team. The year started on a very positive note at a players’ meeting in The Manor Inn. The winning of the Co. Senior Championship was number one priority for the year. Nevertheless, the Mid-Kerry League was won along the way. The Co. League was won once again, for the 3rd time in 4 years. The Mid-Kerry Championship was a casualty this year, due, I would think, mainly to its timing and the fact that we had achieved our number one priority.

Sept. 24th this year will long be remembered by those of us, privileged to be there. For weeks beforehand the town was alive with excitement. Scarves, flags and headbands were made. The players, trainer, selectors and officers were interviewed for the Co. Final video. The three local newspapers dug up every piece of information they could muster. The townspeople sported the blue and white from their shop-fronts and, above all, the team was well prepared for the task ahead. The largest crowd ever at a county final filled the Fitzgerald Stadium. Laune Rangers, who had earlier accounted for Killarney, St. Kieran’s and Austin Stacks faced up to John Mitchels. The performance of the Rangers in the final was one of the finest ever and we ran out winners 2-13 to 1-6. Ger Murphy got the man-of-the-match award for one of many great displays on a day when each and every player played well.

The celebrations after the final will be remembered as long as the match itself. First stop was the Castle Heights. Then home to a parade through the town. Thousands thronged the streets for what was a great homecoming. After all the speeches, the celebrations continued long into the night. AIB, the sponsors of the Co. Final, hosted a lunch on the Monday for the victorious team in the Ballygarry House Hotel. From there the team paid a courtesy call to the John Mitchels’ clubhouse and a few other places before they reached home. For the weeks that followed, the team was feted at various functions in Killorglin and the Co. Final victory was savoured on each occasion. The press gave Laune Rangers excellent coverage throughout the year and especially after the Co. Final. Thanks particularly to Kerry’s Eye, The Kerryman and The Kingdom.

The Co. Final victory enabled the Laune Rangers to play in the Munster Club Championship. A Houdini act in our first match at home to Clonmel Commercials enabled us to go to Clonmel for the replay and we won well. Our opponents in the next round, Castlehaven, were fresh from the Cork Co. Final when we met in the Fitzgerald Stadium. On the day we didn’t play to our full potential and we suffered a rare defeat. Austin Stacks defeated us in the Club Championship played under the new rules.

What can I say about trainer, Noel O Mahony? His record speaks for itself – 6 Mid-Kerry Championships, 3 Co. Leagues, 1 Co. Championship and numerous Mid-Kerry Leagues in 7 years. To two hard working selectors, John and Patsy, I say thank you for a job well done and we look forward to the defence of our title next year.

I would like to thank our referees Bart Moriarty, Michael O Reilly, Pat O Shea and Michael O Sullivan for their work during the year. Also thanks to those parents and mentors who brought their cars to matches during the year.

Before I finish, I would like to pay tribute to the outgoing Chairman, Jerome Conway. Jerome has given a lifetime to Laune Rangers as Secretary, Chairman, trainer of teams and selector. Without him I’m sure this club would not have reached the heights of success we have achieved and I feel sure that he has still much to offer football both in Killorglin and further afield.

As I am also stepping down from my position this year, I would like to thank everyone who has helped me to carry out my duties and I wish Jerome’s successor and my successor well in the future. I will be available to assist the club in some other capacity next year.

Go raibh maith agaibh,

Tomás Mac Coillithe.’