1998

Laune Rangers – 1998

 Laune Rangers won the Co. Club Senior Football Championship.

Laune Rangers, captained by Pa Murphy, won the Co. Senior Football League Div. 1 for the 5^th successive year and the 9^th time in total.

Laune Rangers ‘B’ team won the newly-formed Div. 6 of the Co. Football League but lost the Molyneaux Cup Final to Kerins O Rahillys by one point after extra-time.

Laune Rangers won the Co. Minor Football League Div. 1 for the 5^th successive year and the 8^th time in total.

Laune Rangers won the Mid-Kerry Senior Football league for the 17^th time.

Laune Rangers won the Mid-Kerry ‘B’ Football Championship for the 14^th time.

Laune Rangers retained the Co. U-15 Football Championship, winning it for the 3^rd time in total.

Laune Rangers won the Mid-Kerry U-16 Football Championship for the 26^th time.

Mid-Kerry, captained by Shane Clifford, won the Co. U-14 District Board Football Championship for the first time.

Tralee IT won the Sigerson Cup (Inter-universities’ Championship). In the final, Pa O Sullivan scored 0-2 from left half-forward and Mike F. Russell played at left full-forward.

Kerry won the Munster Senior Football Championship, defeating Tipperary in the final by 0-17 to 1-10. Mike F. Russell scored 0-1 from right full-forward. They lost to Kildare in the All-Ireland Semi-final (0-13 to 1-9).

Kerry won the Munster and All-Ireland U-21 Football Championships. John Sheehan played at right halfback, Pa O Sullivan scored 0-3 from centre half-forward and Mike F. Russell 0-1 from right full-forward.

The Hassett brothers, Mike and Liam, stepped down from the Kerry Senior team.

The Intermediate School, captained by Barry O Sullivan, won the Dunloe Cup at the expense of Tarbert Comprehensive School on the score of 2-11 to 1-10.

Intermediate School, captained by Aidan Lynch, won the Russell Cup by beating the ‘Green’ by 2-13 to 2-10 on Thursday 20^th May 1999.

James Coffey was re-elected as Joint-Treasurer of the Kerry Co. Board for the 26^th successive year.

Jerome Conway was elected as Vice-Chairman of the Kerry Co. Board.

 

Near misses:

Laune Rangers, representing Kerry for the 4^th successive year, lost the Munster Club Football Championship first round to Bantry Blues by 0-14 to 0-7.

Laune Rangers ‘B’ lost the Molyneaux Cup Final to Kerins O Rahillys.

Laune Rangers ‘C’ team lost the Co. Urban League Final to Kerins O Rahillys.

Laune Rangers lost the Co. U-16 Football Final to Austin Stacks.

Laune Rangers lost the Mid-Kerry U-12 Football Final to Milltown/Castlemaine.

Killorglin lost the Community Games Boys’ Football Final to Strand Road.

Klinge/Fujisawa lost the Co. Senior Inter-firm Football Final to Digital.

*        *        *       *        *        *         *           *          *           *         *

Laune Rangers’ Annual Convention was held on Mon. 1^st Dec. 1997. (The Secretary’s Report was given at the end of 1997). James Coffey complimented the Secretary on his comprehensive report. James Coffey then went through the Treasurers’ Report and detailed all the expenditure and expressed his concern once again at the amount of money being spent on player-travel. Michael Foley thanked the Killorglin Credit Union, the main sponsor, all other sponsors and lotto ticket sellers. He thanked the Secretary for looking after the Tour, the people who gave the club the use of their premises, those who helped with the Golf Classic and the Finance Committee. Michael Ahern, Secretary Bord na nOg, gave a detailed report on the activities of the juveniles during the year. He thanked the outgoing Bord na nOg Chairman, James Ferris, who was not seeking re-election.

The Chairman, John Clifford, in his address, paid tribute to John Evans and wished that his son, Seán, would be restored to full health. He appealed to members to show patience with and support the new trainer. He spoke of the honour it was to see a Laune Ranger player bringing home the Sam Maguire to Kerry after eleven years. He told of his regret for Mike Hassett, who hadn’t even got a medal. Referring to Féile Peile na nOg, the Chairman stated that no more could be done by the Bord na nOg officers than had been done. He said that much of the criticism had come from within the club and was unwarranted. He said that Bord na nOg people were the unsung heroes of the club. He voiced his concern that so few people were going forward for office in the club.

Tributes were paid to Mary Clifford, Scór organiser, and the outgoing officers, who were not seeking re-election, Aidan Gannon and Batty Foley, who had served the club so well.

On John Evans’ retirement as trainer of the senior team, his contribution and unprecedented success were acknowledged and many glowing tributes were paid by Jerome Conway, Noel O Mahony, John Griffin, Patsy Joy and Christy O Riordan. Bart Moriarty praised the officers of the club. He felt that the Co. Semi-final and Final had been too close. He raised the problem with referees in the county – two meetings all year and no exam or fitness tests. Noel O Mahony mentioned that the distribution of All-Ireland tickets was unfair to big clubs. Many members spoke of their unhappiness that Mike Hassett had not received an All-Ireland medal. Some even suggested that the club should buy one for him.

The following officers were elected:

President – Paddy Crowley.

Chairman – John Clifford.

Vice-Chairmen – Jim Galvin and Ger Counihan.

Secretary – Tommy Woods.

Joint-Treasurers – James Coffey and Michael Foley.

PRO – John Griffin.

Assistant PRO – Michael O Shea.

Registrars – Liam Shannon and Maurice Corkery.

Insurance Officer – Bart Moriarty.

Delegate to Co. Board – James Ferris.

Delegates to Mid-Kerry Board – Donal Pigott and

Senior Football Selection Committee – John Griffin (trainer), Patsy Joy and Ger Counihan.

‘B’ Football Selection Committee – Maurice Corkery, Liam Foley, John F. O Brien and Michael O Shea.

‘C’ Football Selection Committee: Dominic Crowley,

 

Munster Club Senior Football League

That was a new competition, brought about by people from Kerry and Cork who had seen the necessity for such a competition.

Rd. 1 on Wed. 3^rd June at Clonakilty: Clonakilty 0-17; Laune Rangers 3-12.

 

Co. Senior Football Championship

17 teams took part in the Co. Senior Football Championship, St. Kieran’s, Kerins O Rahillys, Laune Rangers, Kenmare, Legion, Austin Stacks, Dr. Crokes, Mid-Kerry, St. Brendan’s, John Mitchel’s, Feale Rangers, Desmonds, South-Kerry, Kilcummin, Shannon Rangers, East-Kerry and West-Kerry.

 

Rd. 1 on Sat. 12^th June at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 0-15; Kenmare 1-11.

Emmet Moloney reported on the game in the Kerryman as follows: “Laune Rangers, AIB county senior football champions of 1993, 1995 and 1996, came perilously close to being dumped out of this year’s competition at the first hurdle in Killorglin on Sat. evening, scraping home by a point against un-fancied Kenmare. Captain Pa Murphy and fullback Adrian Hassett were the heroes for the Killorglin side. As the game entered injury time, they combined to block Kenmare captain Seán O Shea’s blast for goal from 15 yards. At the time, two points separated the sides and from the resulting ‘45’, Kenmare full-forward, Brendan O Neill, narrowed the gap to the minimum. It was high tension stuff, as a further 90 seconds of injury-time were played, but Kenmare just couldn’t conjure up an equaliser and so Rangers got through.

Brave Kenmare made their intentions known from the very start. Within five minutes, they had kicked three fine points from play, two from Brendan O Neill and one from Fergus O Sullivan. Wing-back David Gunne was raiding forward with purpose and the Kenmare side had a fluent look to it. In those first five minutes, the ball rarely passed Teddy Harrington and Liam Lynch at midfield. Laune would get into the game around about the same time as Tommy Byrne took over in the middle of the field. The Rangers’ No. 8 got into his stride after seven minutes, feeding Mike Francis Russell for the first of seven points scored by him. Over the next fifteen minutes, the home side assumed control. The dominance was total, led by the rampant Byrne, and it saw the home side add seven more points to their tally. They came from Pa O Sullivan (2), Liam Hassett, Shane O Sullivan and Russell (3 frees taken from the ground) and this left Rangers ahead by 0-8 to 0-3 eight minutes before the interval.

Then, as quickly as Laune had taken over, they took their collective foot off the pedal. A Kenmare side that looked dead and buried was resuscitated by three much-needed points ahead of the interval. The last of these, a free from Kieran Moriarty, brought them within two points of Laune. As time ran out in the first half, Mike Francis Russell kicked yet another immaculate point off the ground to give the hot favourites a three-point lead (0-9 to 0-6) at the break, with the light cross-field breeze to come in Kenmare’s favour. The football in the first half at times bordered on the reckless, with each side indulging in unnecessary short-passing. When Laune kicked from distance in the direction of Mike Francis Russell and Paul Griffin, their attack only then looked truly menacing.

The opening minutes of the second half were nip and tuck. Fergus O Sullivan and Kieran Moriarty had good points for Kenmare, while Paul Griffin, with two points, answered for the home side, preserving the three-point lead. After eleven minutes, Mike Frank Russell made another telling cameo, twisting from one side to the other before landing a wonderful left-footed point from forty yards. Ahead by four points (0-13 to 0-9), the more experienced Laune looked set to go on and put the game beyond their opponents and, around this time, they were presented with the chance to do so. Midfielder Tommy Byrne snuck behind the Kenmare defence and was found with a lofted ball by Paul Griffin. In splendid isolation, eight yards from goal, Byrne elected to try and flick the ball over his head to the Kenmare net when he had ample time and room to catch the ball. His effort slipped past the post.

Following that let-off, Brendan O Neill brought Kenmare back within three points again, his kick bouncing in front of Peter Lyons and going over the bar. A Pa O Sullivan white flag restored the four-point advantage to the Killorglin side and once again they looked comfortable. However, with nine minutes to go, the goal that Kenmare craved came at last, courtesy of some good work and old-fashioned persistence by full-forward, Brendan O Neill. The Tuosist No. 14 gave Adrian Hassett a tough time for the full hour and on 51 minutes he got his reward. Fielding a lob ten yards from goal, he twisted away from Hassett to shoot goal-wards. His effort beat Peter Lyons but careered off the Laune post. The quick-thinking O Neill gathered the rebound and shot again. This time his effort was half smothered by Hassett, but there was enough power and direction to take it to the Laune net. Kenmare were now just a point behind.

The next ten minutes were fraught with danger for the home team and their watching supporters. Kenmare came at Laune again and, in truth, could have snatched an equaliser on at least four occasions, kicking three wides in this period. The only respite for Laune came once again from the reliable Russell. He was fed fifty yards from goal and made room for his kick, which sailed over to give Laune the most dangerous of leads – two points. Kenmare ploughed forward and, in injury time, a move ended with centre-back, and captain, Sean O Shea, presented with a clear sight of goal. His blast was expertly blocked by the brave Murphy and resilient Adrian Hassett. The Rangers lived again. O Neill’s resulting ‘45’ narrowed the gap to the minimum again, but in the time remaining they never looked like getting the equaliser. It was all hands on deck by Rangers, with full-forward Liam Hassett joining his brother in defence. It was Liam who was fouled in possession as the game ended, four minutes into injury time.

So, Laune survived. Although clearly the classier side, they can thank captain Pa Murphy and Adrian Hassett for their late intervention when O Shea blasted for the Laune’s net. Russell, Pa Murphy, Paul Griffin, Mike Hassett and Tommy Byrne apart, they struggled to impose themselves on a limited but determined Kenmare fifteen.”

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Pa Murphy (capt.), Adrian Hassett, Mark O Connor, John Sheehan, Mike Hassett, Shane O Sullivan (0-1), Tommy Byrne, Conor Kearney, Mike Frank Russell (0-7, 4 frees), Paul Griffin (0-2), James O Shea, Pa O Sullivan (0-3, 1 free), Liam Hassett (0-1), Brian Gannon (0-1). Subs: Eoin Ferris, Billy O Shea, Jason Griffin, Joe Hayes, Garrath Sheehan, Trevor Gannon, Brendan Fitzgerald, Tony Lyons, John Moriarty, John Ahern, Brian Curran, Mark Conway.

Kenmare: Tomás Carey (Kenmare), Pat Twomey (Kilgarvan), Conor Daly (Kenmare), Danny Quill (Kilgarvan), David Gunne (Kenmare), Sean O Shea (do.) 0-1, Morgan O Sullivan (Tuosist), Teddy Harrington (do.), Liam Lynch (Kenmare) 0-1, Conor McSwiney (do.), John Daly (do.) 0-1, Timmy Clifford (Templenoe), Kieran Moriarty (Kenmare) 0-2, 1 free, Brendan O Neill (Tuosist) 1-4, one ‘45’, Fergus O Sullivan (Templenoe) 0-2. Subs: Johnny O Sullivan (Kenmare) for P. Twomey, D.J. Brennan (Kenmare) for K. Moriarty, J.P. O Connor (Kenmare) for Conor McSwiney.

Ref: Tom Lynch (Kerins O Rahillys).

Trainer John Griffin: “A very close game, which we expected. We got a fright down in Kenmare last year, but we got a bigger fright this year. We did not play well, perhaps in patches we played OK, but overall the performance was disappointing. We have a lot of work to do, but we have a good break until the next round and we have time to settle down and do it. The start of the year did not go right with players slow coming back. Kenmare played well and they did not surprise us. We knew they would play well and not give up without a fight and it’s a credit to them the way they played in the second half. Billy O Shea is out at present with a torn hamstring, having commenced training last week but he expects to be back in a week or 10 days.”

Patsy Joy, Laune Rangers Selector: “It was a good performance in one sense. We let Kenmare go ahead by three or four points and we came back. It was a good performance for the first round and it’s very hard to put away a team in the first round. Our marking in the halfback line left a lot to be desired. Kenmare used the ball well and they had their homework done and the three or four challenge games they played helped them. We have time to prepare for the next round and it is still all to play for.”

 

Quarter-final on Sun. 9^th Aug. at Austin Stack Park: Laune Rangers 0-19; St. Brendan’s 1-9.

John O Dowd reported for the Kerryman as follows: “Although they had a player dismissed after only five minutes, Laune Rangers strolled to victory over gallant St. Brendan’s in the AIB Co. Senior Football Championship. Indeed, it often appeared that the Killorglin men were, in fact, the team with the extra man such was their dominance of the play and, in Mike Frank Russell, they had, undoubtedly, the best player on the pitch. The Kerry youngster had an excellent game, scoring six points and generally giving his marker, Conor Flaherty, the run-around. In fairness to the Ardfert defender, any back would have struggled to contain the prodigious Russell on the night. Russell and his fellow Rangers’ forwards benefited from superb distribution from out-field, especially from impressive midfielder Tommy Byrne. Despite a marked improvement by St. Brendan’s in the second half, they never looked as if they could beat the 1996 All-Ireland club champions.

In belated summer sunshine, the game started rather eventfully when, after Tom O Connell for St. Brendan’s and Pa O Sullivan had exchanged pointed frees, Liam Hassett missed a great opportunity of a goal when he blasted a close-range drive off the crossbar in the fourth minute and then fired the rebound wide. A minute later, Rangers had James O Shea dismissed for an off-the-ball incident (kicking an opponent), which the linesman brought to the referee’s attention, but St. Brendan’s were never able to make the numerical advantage count as Laune Rangers proceeded to kill off the game before halftime.

St. Brendan’s were hesitancy personified from goalkeeper Ger Pierce out, as Pierce had problems with his kick-outs all through the game and this seemed to permeate through to his colleagues in the first half, with poor distribution from the divisional side the order of the day. By the 15^th minute, Laune Rangers had built up a six-point lead (0-7 to 0-1), with Pa O Sullivan slotting over four points, three from frees, with Russell (free) and Liam Hassett also getting their names on the score-sheet. Tommy Byrne and, to a lesser extent, Mike Hassett, were dominating the midfield sector, while the Killorglin defence was giving little away, with captain Pa Murphy being particularly influential.

For their part, St. Brendan’s were finding it virtually impossible to build up any attacking momentum and a point from Eamonn Sayers in the 23^rd minute was their only first half score from play. After Pa O Sullivan pointed another free, Laune Rangers lost another goal opportunity in the 28^th minute when a scintillating run from Russell saw him find Paul Griffin, whose shot was well saved by the St. Brendan’s net-minder. Mike Hassett and Russell, with a super left-footed point from 35 metres, added further points to leave St. Brendan’s trailing by eight points at halftime (0-10 to 0-2).

A worrying factor for Laune Rangers and Kerry was that Billy O Shea failed to reappear for the second half. He had got a knock on the knee in the first half and had been unable to run it off. Even before his injury, though, O Shea had not really figured in the game and he is still a long way from full match fitness. However, the strength in depth of the Killorglin side was evident in the fact that O Shea was replaced by the wily veteran, Gerard Murphy, who notched three points in the second half. The quality of Laune Rangers was epitomised at the beginning of this half when 11 or 12 players handled the ball before Mike Hassett registered a splendid point from 40 metres. Tom O Connell (free) and Russell exchanged points before St. Brendan’s were thrown a potential lifeline in the 35^th minute  when Eoin O Connor put Sean Flaherty clean through and he slotted the ball past the Laune Rangers’ goalkeeper, Peter Lyons, for the only goal of the game.

Laune Rangers’ lead had now been cut to six points (0-12 to 1-3) but, despite James Costello subduing Pa O Sullivan and Liam Harty performing effectively at midfield, St. Brendan’s never got close enough to cause an upset. Every time they managed to knock over a point, Laune Rangers just regrouped and went down and replied with a score of their own. Indeed, it must be said that the shooting from both sides was pretty impressive in this half, with 13 points being scored in 13 minutes, from the 37^th minute. With Laune Rangers leading by 0-16 to 1-7, they failed to avail of another goal-scoring chance in the 45^th minute when Russell and Paul Griffin created an opening for Pa O Sullivan, whose shot was well smothered by Ger Pierce in the St. Brendan’s goal. Brian Gannon, after a super run from wing-back, and Russell, with a nonchalantly punched point, added further scores for Rangers before Eoin O Connor had a point for St. Brendan’s in the 47^th minute to leave seven points between the sides (0-18 to 1-8). Gerard Murphy completed Rangers’ tally in the 49^th minute and the scores dried up after Tom O Connell’s point for Brendan’s a minute later. The game just petered out in the final 10 minutes, Laune Rangers having done their work.

So, Laune Rangers are into yet another county semi-final and look well equipped to challenge champions East-Kerry. Although they will meet more illustrious opposition than St. Brendan’s in the next round, they still have the individual flair and fantastic team-work to trouble any side. On the night, they had their best performers in Pa Murphy, Brian Gannon and Mark O Connor in defence, Tommy Byrne at midfield and Mike Frank Russell, Pa O Sullivan (first half), Paul Griffin and substitute Gerard Murphy in attack. Mike Hassett notched two fine points but was more workmanlike than inspirational at midfield, while his brother Liam’s distribution is still letting him down.”

Subsequently, James O Shea was suspended for two months, even though the player (James Costello) whom he was alleged to have kicked wrote a note to the Co. GPC advising that, even though there had been argy-bargy between the two players, the Laune Rangers player never made any contact with him with either boot or fist.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Eoin Ferris, Adrian Hassett, Mark O Connor, Pa Murphy, John Sheehan, Brian Gannon (0-1), Tommy Byrne, Mike Hassett (0-2), Paul Griffin, Liam Hassett (0-1), James O Shea, Billy O Shea, Pa O Sullivan (0-6, 5 frees), Mike Frank Russell (0-6, 2 frees). Subs: Gerard Murphy (0-3) for B. O Shea (inj.), Shane O Sullivan for P. Griffin, Garrett Sheehan, Jason Griffin, Trevor Gannon, Tony Lyons, Joe Hayes, Brian Curran.

St. Brendan’s: Gerard Pierce (Ardfert) capt., Benny Clifford (Churchill), Liam Harty (do.), Conor Flaherty (Ardfert), James Costello (St. Pat’s), John Enright (do.) 0-1, Sean Synott (Ardfert), Alan Murphy (Churchill), Derek McCarthy (Ardfert), Eoin O Connor (Na Gaeil) 0-1, Brendan O Sullivan (Ballyheigue), Sean Flaherty (Ardfert) 1-0, Gearoid Hussey (Na Gaeil) 0-1, free, Tom O Connell (O Dorney) 0-4, 3 frees, Eamonn Sayers (St. Pat’s) 0-2. Subs: James O Halloran (Ardfert) for A. Murphy (inj.), Jeremy Walsh (Churchill) for E. Sayers (inj.).

Ref: Aidan Mangan (Austin Stacks).

 

Semi-final on Sun. 20^th Sept. at Fitzgerald Stadium: St. Kieran’s 1-14; Laune Rangers 1-11.

John Barry reported in the Kerryman as follows: “They might have made their supporters agonise in the last 20 minutes, after building up a nine-point lead (1-12 to 0-6), but St. Kieran’s were worthy winners of this AIB Co. Senior Football Championship semi-final. It was a particularly hot and sunny day and amongst the most humid ever experienced on the playing field. Perhaps that’s why the game itself was just a little stifled. The action, whole-hearted as it was, never generated that much excitement and the best part was the last 20 minutes when Laune Rangers made a valiant attempt to retrieve a situation that had appeared hopeless.

There was very little between the teams for much of the first half and, in fact, just a point separated them going into injury time – 0-6 to 0-5 – in favour of St. Kieran’s. Then in the very first minute of injury time came probably the most decisive moment of the match. Ruairí O Rahilly won possession and placed Kieran Scanlon and he drove at the Laune Rangers’ defence. He played a ball to John McGlynn, ran on for the return and then fired a great low shot to the corner of the net. Better still, they followed with a superb point by Sean McElligott in the second minute of injury time and suddenly a five-point gap had opened up between the sides (1-7 to 0-5).

On the balance of play in the first half there is little doubt that St. Kieran’s deserved to be a few points ahead at the break. They were enjoying the better of matters at midfield, where John McGlynn was having a stormer, and they appeared to have a better spread of talent through the field generally. As early as the sixth minute, Sean McElligott very nearly bagged a goal. His powerful shot from close range was deflected onto the upright by Rangers’ goalkeeper, Peter Lyons, and the ball stayed on the right side of the goal-line after coming back and striking Lyons again. A feature of the early play were some great runs upfield by Rangers’ Mike Hassett, two in particular, and, in fact, Hassett, who was named at midfield but started at centre halfback, put his name to a very good point in the 26^th minute after a lot of grafting had been done by Shane O Sullivan.

Five points up, they (St. Kieran’s) went all out to tighten their grip on the game and they succeeded most admirably. First a palmed point by Sean McElligott and then further points by John McGlynn and Denis Dennehy, all in the space of five minutes. They had extended their lead to eight points and it looked as if Laune Rangers were going to take a bit of a hammering. Too many absentees left them vulnerable and, of course, they had failed to get James O Shea re-instated the previous Thursday night (he was suspended for two months after being sent off in the quarter-final against St. Brendan’s). They wound up being largely dependent on Mike and Liam Hassett to take them out of trouble and, in fairness to both players, they couldn’t have given any more on the day. They were the real driving forces behind the revival by the Killorglin side in the last 20 minutes, both operating at midfield at this stage.

Mike Frank Russell had pulled back a point for Laune Rangers in the 36^th minute but that dynamic duo, Jack and Denis Dennehy, answered with two superb points to widen the gap to nine points in the 40^th minute. Rangers appeared to be in serious disarray but, even with weakened forces, the spirit was far from dead and they were to put St. Kieran’s on the rack in a big way before it was all over. Mike Hassett drove upfield and was denied in a valiant bid for a goal, though there was the consolation of a point by Brian Gannon in the subsequent play. Pa O Sullivan shoved over another point a minute later to leave it at 1-12 to 0-8. Nothing very threatening for St. Kieran’s, it seemed and, indeed, the crossbar prevented a St. Kieran’s goal by Jack Dennehy in the 43^rd minute. Gerard Murphy pulled back another point for Rangers and Mike Frank Russell hit the upright with a free. At the other end, John McGlynn guided a free beautifully between the posts. Seven points in it again (1-13 to 0-9).

However, it was noticeable that Laune Rangers were beginning to win the lion’s share of possession, with the Hassetts continuing to be the main driving force and, after substitute Pat McKenna and  Pa O Sullivan had shoved over points, they were presented with a gilt-edged chance of a goal. An attack ended with Pa O Sullivan finding Michael F. Russell just on the right of the posts and, with only goalkeeper Liam O Sullivan to beat, Russell blazed the ball wide on his own side. It was easily the miss of the match and so unlike Russell, whose finishing is usually very clinical in such situations. Chinks were appearing in St. Kieran’s armour and the same confidence wasn’t there as Rangers continued to press forward. There was relief for the winners in the shape of a point by Tommy O Mahony, which extended the lead to six points, but Rangers were determined to fight to the very last and in the 59^th minute they were awarded a penalty after referee Tommy Sugrue deemed that John Sheehan was fouled in the small square. Brian Gannon took the kick and dispatched it to the net with great authority.

All of a sudden only three points separated the sides and, if St. Kieran’s were showing signs of being rattled before this, they must have really been on edge as the remaining time was played out. A fine piece of heroics by Jack O Connell prevented Laune Rangers bearing down on goal again and there was to be time for little more, with referee Sugrue playing less than a minute of stoppage time. As far as Laune Rangers are concerned, they were carrying too big a burden in the players they were missing but, true to the colours they were wearing, they made a brave bid to save a game which was as good as gone from them and their two stars were undoubtedly the Hassett brothers.”

There were no complaints from Laune Rangers afterwards. Trainer John Griffin said, “To be honest, I don’t think we deserved it. For 45 minutes, we were just off form and it’s very hard to understand what went wrong. In the last fifteen minutes our fellows showed their true form. We had Kieran’s on the run in the last quarter and Michael Frank had a chance of a goal, but we had plenty of other chances before that and didn’t take them. We can have no excuses. St. Kieran’s were the better team on the day.” Asked why Billy O Shea, who had been togged out as a substitute, wasn’t played, John Griffin said, “It wasn’t worth the risk. There is a lot of football to be played by Laune Rangers this year yet.” Laune Rangers were also missing the following players from the previous year: Paudie Sheahan, Timmy Fleming and Billy O Sullivan (all retired), Pierce Prendiville (inj.), Paul Griffin (holidays) and Conor Kearney.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, John Sheehan, Adrian Hassett, Mark O Connor, Pa Murphy (capt.), Mike Hassett (0-1), Brendan Fitzgerald, Tommy Byrne, Liam Hassett, Shane O Sullivan, Pa O Sullivan (0-3, 1 free), Brian Gannon (1-1, 1 pen.), Gerard Murphy (0-1), Michael Frank Russell (0-4, 2 frees), Garrath Sheehan. Sub: Johnny Lynch for G. Sheehan, Pat McKenna (0-1) for S. O Sullivan, Eoin Ferris, Mikey Griffin, Trevor Gannon, Tony Lyons, Brian Curran, Joe Hayes, Billy O Shea (inj.).

Ref: Tommy Sugrue (St. Pat’s).

 

Co. Senior Club Football Championship

 

Quarter-final on Sat. 26^th Sept. at Kilcummin: Kilcummin 1-5; Laune Rangers 0-17.

A superbly fit and highly motivated Laune Rangers side controlled most sectors of the field and comprehensively beat a poor Kilcummin team. A feature of the game was the outstanding performance of the Killorglin back-line, completely overshadowing the Kilcummin forwards.

Rangers started well and had a point from Michael F. Russell inside the first minute. The home side equalised with a point by Sean O Leary in the 3^rd minute. Kilcummin had to wait for the 26^th minute to register their second score, which was a goal. A free by David McCarthy sailed towards the square, where Rangers’ Pa Murphy rose highest to collect. As he hit the ground, however, the ball fell from his grasp and Sean Doherty hit it first time to the net. Rangers dominated most of the first half, scoring nine points. They could have been further ahead but splendid goalkeeping by Diarmuid O Donoghue saved his side on a number of occasions. He brought off a brilliant point-blank save from Pa O Sullivan nine minutes into the half at the expense of a point. Six minutes later he denied Brian Gannon a goal with another fine save. O Donoghue was again the hero in the 24^th minute when he deprived Pa O Sullivan of another goal chance. Midway through that first half, the visitors led by 0-4 to 0-1, with points by Russell (2), Pa O Sullivan and a great long-range effort from Liam Hassett. Laune Rangers piled on the pressure with midfielders Tommy Byrne and Mike Hassett setting up the forward line. Rangers had five more points between the 16^th and 28^th minutes to stamp their authority on the game. Pa O Sullivan scored three, two from frees, while the impressive Gerard Murphy had a great long-range effort from an acute angle and Mike Frank Russell had the final score of the half with a good effort from under the stand. At halftime, the visitors led by 0-9 to 1-1.

Kilcummin opened the second half smartly, scoring a point from a free by Sean O Leary after 30 seconds. Rangers, however, took control of the play and, over the next 20 minutes, scored eight points without reply. The Rangers’ scores came from good passing movements, frees and general team-work. Michael Francis Russell contributed three points during that period, two from frees, while Gerard Murphy had one, Pa O Sullivan three and halfback Shane O Sullivan made the long trek up-field to register a good score. Kilcummin made a gallant effort to come into the game in the final 10 minutes with a splendid long-range point from Eamonn O Donoghue. They continued to press forward but splendid defensive work by Rangers kept their scores to a minimum. Willie Maher did score a good point and Sean O Leary had the final score when he punched over.

Laune Rangers fully deserved the victory with Pa O Sullivan in sparkling form up front, ably assisted by Gerard Murphy and Michael Francis Russell. The Rangers’ back-line was superb. Fullback Adrian Hassett played an inspirational game with Mark O Connor and Shane O Sullivan holding their markers very well. Centre halfback John Sheehan had a great afternoon, while Eoin Ferris and the midfield pairing of Tommy Byrne and Mike Hassett were a thorn in the side of the Kilcummin players.

Laune Rangers: Tony Lyons, Pa Murphy, Adrian Hassett, Mark O Connor, Shane O Sullivan (0-1), John Sheehan, Eoin Ferris, Tommy Byrne, Mike Hassett, Brian Gannon, Liam Hassett (0-1), Johnny Lynch, Gerard Murphy (0-2), Pa O Sullivan (0-8, 4 frees), Mike Frank Russell (0-5, 3 frees). Subs: Mikey Griffin for B. Gannon, Pat McKenna for MF Russell.

Ref: Pat O Sullivan (Kenmare).

 

Semi-final on Sat. 3^rd Oct. at Direen: Laune Rangers 1-15; Desmonds 1-8.

Played in a downpour of rain, that game marked the return to football of Laune Rangers’ and Kerry star Billy O Shea, out of the game through injury. He was brought into the game in the 11^th minute and, showing a high level of skill and fitness, he was quickly into the thick of the action. Laune Rangers were without Mike Frank Russell who was in America.

Desmonds opened with a Martin Horgan point in the 3^rd minute. Rangers responded with a splendid long range point from Gerard Murphy from an acute angle way out on the wing. Pa O Sullivan was again in devastating form, scoring the first of his six points from a free in the seventh minute. Rangers then began to settle and scored six points without reply between the 12^th and 20^th minutes. Kevin Lynch had a point for Desmonds in the 24^th minute. Just before the break Desmonds had points from Martin Horgan and Darby Buckley to leave them trailing by 0-8 to 0-4 at the break.

On the resumption, Rangers scored first from a long range free by Pa O Sullivan inside 30 seconds. Kevin Lynch replied for Desmonds. Then Rangers struck for a great goal, when Liam Hassett drew the backs and passed to the unmarked Billy O Shea, who made no mistake from close range. A foul on Jerome Stack saw Kevin Lynch convert the long range free after six minutes. Rangers again showed their class and, in a magical period between the 7^th and 16^th minutes, they scored four unanswered points from Brian Gannon, Gerard Murphy (free), Pa O Sullivan (free) and a magnificent long-range effort from Tommy Byrne. Peter Lyons saved superbly from Martin Horgan. Desmonds were rewarded with a goal from a penalty by Kevin Lynch, who also added another pointed free from 40m in the 28^th minute. Rangers finished strongly with points by Pa O Sullivan and Pat McKenna.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Shane O Sullivan, Adrian Hassett, Eoin Ferris, Pa Murphy (capt.), John Sheehan, Mark O Connor, Tommy Byrne (0-2), Mike Hassett, Brian Gannon (0-1), Liam Hassett, Johnny Lynch, Pat McKenna (0-1), Pa O Sullivan (0-6, 4 frees), Gerard Murphy (0-4). Subs: Billy O Shea (1-1) for E. Ferris, Paul Griffin for J. Lynch.

Ref: Connie O Carroll (Legion).

There was panic before the game when it was discovered that Patsy Joy had mistakenly brought a set of juvenile jerseys instead of a senior set. Laurence Hogan (Mid-Kerry Cabs) was employed to deliver a senior set of jerseys to Killarney at a cost of £13.

 

Final on Sat. 10^th Oct. at Fitzgerald Stadium: Laune Rangers 0-11; Kerins O Rahillys 0-10.

Eamonn Horan reported on that game for the Kerryman as follows: “Sharp-shooter Mike Frank Russell proved to be the star turn for Laune Rangers when helping the Killorglin side to the narrowest of victories over Kerins O Rahillys in the Co. Club Football Championship final and, as a result of that win, Rangers now go forward to play Bantry Blues in the opening round of the Munster Club Championship in Bantry this coming Sunday.

Kerins O Rahillys were perhaps somewhat unlucky not to have got a draw. Of course, the fact that they had to play with only 14 men for almost three-quarters of the game was a distinct handicap for the Tralee club – left halfback Simon McCarthy was dismissed for an off-the-ball incident 17 minutes into the first half. In addition, O Rahillys had an excellent chance of drawing the game in the 55^th minute when they were awarded a free out on the right wing. But, as Ger O Brien was a bout to take the free, he said something to the referee and, as a result, the official in charge changed his decision and decided to throw in the ball instead and O Rahillys lost a fine opportunity of snatching a draw. But, on overall balance, Laune Rangers just about deserved to win the game. They played with greater cohesion throughout, they had more penetration up front and, as stated, they had that man Russell in their ranks and it was his tremendous second-half scores which tilted the scales in their favour.

O Rahillys opened in style and early in the second quarter they led by 0-5 to 0-1. But the Tralee side lost their grip on the game in the second quarter and Rangers began to dominate, with Mike Hassett very much to the fore at midfield. The former Kerry player plied his forwards with some good ball and the losers’ backs had to resort to fouling in order to halt the onrushes by the Rangers’ forwards. Russell was the man who caused havoc in the O Rahillys’ defence every time he got the ball. In all, he kicked six points – four of them from play. He scored those four points in the 3^rd, 6^th, 10^th and 20^th minutes of the second half. Each of them had the hallmark of class about it and these were the scores that helped break O Rahillys’ resistance. Paul Griffin, Billy O Shea and, to a lesser degree, Liam Hassett and Pa O Sullivan, were also prominent in the winners’ attack.

O Rahillys got off to a flying start. They were a point up inside 20 seconds when midfielder Vinnie Murphy found his namesake with a neat pass and the full-forward duly pointed. They added a second after two minutes through Stephen Wallace. Rangers had their opening score after 8 minutes when Paul Griffin pointed from a pass from Russell, after the latter had sent wide from a free. O Rahillys were putting their game together very well at this stage and they added points by Vinny Murphy in the 10^th, 13^th and 17^th minutes to lead by 0-5 to 0-1. It was at this juncture that O Rahillys lost Simon McCarthy and the trend of the game changed from there to the interval, with Laune Rangers coming much more into it. Griffin pointed for Rangers in the 20^th minute. Slowly but surely Rangers began to edge closer to their rivals. Russell pointed a free in the 23^rd minute, after he had been fouled himself, and, soon after, Pa O Sullivan added a point from a free. Rangers kept up the pressure and, after Russell sent the ball wide from play, Mike Hassett tied the scores in the 29^th minute, from a pass by the enterprising Johnny Lynch. In injury time, Russell gave Rangers the lead with a pointed free, following a foul on Lynch, to send the winners in leading by 0-6 to 0-5 at halftime.

The third quarter produced some thrilling exchanges, with the scores level on no fewer than four occasions in this period. Ger O Brien pointed a free on the restart to put O Rahillys on level terms. Then Russell and Vinny Murphy exchanged points as did Russell and O Brien. But Rangers were always able to pull out that little bit extra when it mattered. Russell took a pass from Lynch to give Rangers back the lead, but Vinnie Murphy tied matters up again with a pointed free off his hands after 11 minutes (0-9 each). Russell (free) and Gerard Murphy were wide in turn for Rangers before Vinny Murphy was off target from a long-range free at the opposite end.

The issue hung precariously in the balance. When Gerard Murphy was fouled, Rangers had a fine chance of regaining the lead, but Russell was uncharacteristically wide from the ensuing free. However, the Kerry star made amends in the 20^th minute, when he took a pass from Mark O Connor to boot over a brilliant point to give Rangers a lead they never surrendered. Two minutes later, Pa O Sullivan stretched the advantage to two points when he pointed a free from his hands. After Lynch was wide for the winners, O Rahillys closed the gap to the minimum when Vinny Murphy pointed a free in the 26^th minute. Then Vinny Murphy was just wide from play while, at the other end, substitute Pat McKenna hit a few wides – one effort went wide off the left upright.”

Laune Rangers had stars in Adrian Hassett, Shane O Sullivan, Mark O Connor, John Sheehan, Johnny Lynch, Mike Hassett, Paul Griffin and their man-of-the-match, Mike Frank Russell. After the game, a delighted Co. Board Vice-Chairman, Jerome Conway, presented the Michael O Connor Cup to his fellow club-man, Pa Murphy, to the sheer delight of the large Laune Rangers following. Speaking after the game, John Griffin, the Laune Rangers’ Trainer said, “We missed a number of scoring chances today, but we are delighted with our win. Mike Frank scored some good points for us today. We had to work very hard in this game, especially in the last ten minutes. Rahillys are a good side and today they gave a hard fight. We look forward to next Sunday and our clash with Bantry and, hopefully, we will do well.”

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Pa Murphy (capt.), Adrian Hassett, Shane O Sullivan, Mark O Connor, John Sheehan, Johnny Lynch, Tommy Byrne, Mike Hassett (0-1), Mike Frank Russell (0-6, 2 frees), Liam Hassett, Paul Griffin (0-2), Gerard Murphy, Pa O Sullivan (0-2, 1 free), Billy O Shea. Subs: Pat McKenna for G. Murphy, James O Shea for P. Griffin, Mikey Griffin, Tony Lyons, Garrath Sheehan, Trevor Gannon, Brian Curran, Joe Hayes.

Ref: Connie O Carroll (Legion).

 

Munster Senior Football Club Championship

 

Rd. 1 on Sun. 18^th Oct. at Bantry: Bantry Blues 0-14; Laune Rangers 0-7.

Tommy Conroy reported on the game in Kerry’s Eye as follows: “Laune Rangers went crashing out of the Munster Club and All-Ireland Football Championship, when decisively defeated by a very strong Bantry Blues team on Sunday last by double scores at Wolf Tone Park, Bantry. At no stage did the Kerry representatives look comfortable and they were always chasing the game. They could have made the score-line more respectable if Liam Hassett goaled a gilt-edged opportunity three minutes from the final whistle when he had an open net at his mercy. He delayed his kick, which was eventually blocked down and the chance was lost when excellent Bantry goalkeeper Des McAuley recovered to smother the loose ball.

Bantry were a far superior all-round team, superbly fit and confident. They put the shutters up on the Rangers forwards, where only Mike Frank Russell, with the opening point, and substitute Pat McKenna, scored from play. Five of the Laune Rangers starting 15 attackers hadn’t anything to show and it came as no surprise when Pat McKenna and James O Shea were brought into action in the second half. Neither  did the forwards get the proper supply of good ball in Rangers’ attack, as Bantry’s Damien O Neill and Michael Moran proved a formidable midfield pairing over the hour. Conditions were dry and there wasn’t a puff of a breeze. However, the pitch cut up very badly and both sets of players found it extremely difficult to hold their footing, especially down the middle, where the ball so often got bogged down in mud. Too many of the Kerry champions’ selection were not in the same class as the Bantry Blues. The Corkmen were physically stronger on the ball and enjoyed an amount of possession. In fairness, the Rangers defence and keeper Peter Lyons did very well to keep the score down, none more so than Johnny Lynch, who was their outstanding player over the hour. Pa Murphy, Shane O Sullivan and Mark O Connor held their own. Tommy Byrne, at midfield and in defence, performed effectively, as did Mike Hassett. Bantry cut out the early threat of Mike Frank Russell and Billy O Shea, Gerard Murphy, Pa O Sullivan and Liam Hassett were never the force they once were.

The Rangers began smartly with Byrne and Liam Hassett setting up Mike Frank Russell for the lead point inside 40 seconds. Philip Clifford equalised in the second minute for Bantry from a well-directed ‘45’. Four minutes later, Damien O Neill put Bantry in front with a good point. Laune Rangers were more than holding their own and Mike Frank Russell had two bad wides from play and a ‘45’ before Johnny Lynch booted over the equaliser from a good set-piece to make it 0-2 each at the end of the first quarter. Bantry now began to assert control and Stephen Dineen put Jeremy Canty in for a point, followed by another from teenage sensation Philip Clifford. Referee Kevin Walsh penalised Bantry fullback Mark O Connor for an off-the-ball incident with Mike Frank Russell and Pa O Sullivan tapped over the resultant 20m free. It was now all Bantry, who were playing the ball deep and wide to the wings, opening up the play, which resulted in four crucial points. Sean McCarthy in the 21^st minute, Paul O Rourke went through for two more and Declan O Shea pointed a free, making it 0-8 to 0-3 and the pitch was getting more like a mud-bath. Mike Hassett kicked a great point before the interval to help the struggling Killorglin men, leaving it 0-8 to 0-4 at the break.

Laune Rangers had the Hassett brothers (Liam and Mike) at midfield and the forwards were all switched around (at the restart). Bantry began where they had left off by picking off two points in as many minutes. Michael Moran left-footed a beauty and Clifford steered a 50m free clean between the sticks, 0-10 to 0-4, not looking at all good for Rangers. Andy O Shea, in the Bantry halfback line, cut out two dangerous Killorglin raids. Johnny Lynch won a 20m free, which Mike Frank Russell converted in the 4^th minute. What Laune Rangers wanted was a badly needed goal and it almost came about in the 6^th minute when Mike Hassett dispossessed Andy O Shea to put Mike Frank Russell in the clear. He blasted in a point-blank rasper. Des McAuley stopped brilliantly by pushing it out for a ‘45’, which failed to yield a score. Further Laune Rangers’ wides followed. From one of (Mark) O Connor’s raking clearances Eric Sheehan cruised in for a sweet point.

James O Shea came on for Rangers, replacing the out-of-form Pa O Sullivan. John Sheehan did very well to keep the ball from going into the Rangers’ net from a fisted Bantry effort, while up at the other end Billy O Shea’s shot for goal was easily parried away by McAuley. At the end of the third quarter it was all over for Laune Rangers when Jeremy Canty, who gave fullback Adrian Hassett a worrying afternoon, sent the white flag waving. The gap was widening, 0-12 to 0-5, and Laune Rangers were being swamped at midfield. Pat McKenna replaced Paul Griffin in attack. In the 17^th minute, with his first kick, Pat McKenna pointed. Declan O Shea and Mike Frank Russell traded points from placed balls, 0-13 to 0-7, with 24 minutes gone on the clock. Successive Bantry points were followed by Liam Hassett’s near goal, that was not and should have been, when for once the Bantry defence was caught flat-footed. Hassett drew out the goalkeeper, but Graham Canty recovered swiftly to dive and block as he (Hassett) attempted to drill the ball into the empty net. Hassett won the rebound only to see McAuley dive on the ball and smother, before clearing to safety. That was Laune Rangers’ best chance and, even if it had resulted in a goal, it would not have won the day, but it could have certainly livened up the remaining three minutes. Michael Moran put the nail further in Rangers’ coffin when, from out in the middle of the pitch, he lofted over a terrific left-footed point which landed on top of the net. Johnny Lynch, a Trojan worker, never gave up. He had a great shot tipped around the upright by the diving McAuley for a ‘45’, which was broken up and cleared. Laune Rangers must start a rebuilding period. The subs’ bench and the team are not well equipped to compete outside of Kerry against teams such as Bantry, with a large pool of talent.”

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Pa Murphy (capt.), Adrian Hassett, Shane O Sullivan, Mark O Connor, John Sheehan, Johnny Lynch (0-1), Tommy Byrne, Mike Hassett (0-1), Paul Griffin, Liam Hassett, Pa O Sullivan (0-1, free), Gerard Murphy, Mike Frank Russell (0-3, 2 frees), Billy O Shea. Subs: James O Shea for P. O Sullivan, Pat McKenna (0-1), for P. Griffin, Brian Gannon, Mikey Griffin, Trevor Gannon, Tony Lyons, Joe Hayes, Brian Curran, Jerry O Brien..

Ref: Kevin Walsh (Clare).

A minute’s silence prior to the throw-in was observed in memory of young Sean Evans R.I.P., son of former Laune Rangers’ trainer, John Evans, who had died on the previous Thursday. During the game, Johnny Lynch received a facial injury that necessitated treatment by Paddy Casey, Dental Surgeon in Bantry, to the value of £85. Sean Houlihan’s bus transported the team at a cost of £250.

 

Co. Senior Football League Div. 1

 

Rd. 1 on Sun. 22^nd March at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 0-10; Kerins O Rahillys 0-11.

Played before a small attendance in the J.P. O Sullivan Park, the under-strength Rangers fell three points in arrears, 0-11 to 0-8, with five minutes remaining. The Tralee side had to withstand some very anxious moments towards the finish as the home team came storming at them to salvage a point. Paul Griffin and Tommy Byrne scored two wonderful minors and, in added time, Shane O Sullivan and Griffin saw two point-scoring efforts end up outside the uprights.

The opening half saw the scoring evenly divided. Pa O Sullivan pointed the Rangers into the lead. Impressive full-forward, Vinnie Murphy, levelled the score with a left-footed point. Conor Kearney and Murphy (free) exchanged points before Shane O Sullivan put the Rangers back in the lead with a well-taken outfield point. Peter Lyons, the long-serving and brilliant Laune Rangers goalkeeper pulled off a superb diving save to his left to foil what looked a certain goal by Gary Hussey. Brian Gannon increased the locals’ advantage (0-4 to 0-2) in the 17^th minute. Ger O Brien converted a ‘45’ and Jason Morrissey levelled the scores at 0-4 each. Tommy Byrne, fielding immaculately around the middle, put over a terrific point and, from the kick-out, Rangers split open the O Rahillys’ defence to leave Conor Kearney with what looked a simple tap-in, only for the ball to shave the upright and go wide. That was certainly a let-off for the ‘Blues’. Paul Griffin, always foraging for the ball, screwed over another beauty. O Rahillys rallied and Stephen Wallace raised the white flag. Ger O Brien pointed from out near the sideline to level the scores (0-6 each) at halftime. Just before the break, Rangers lost Pierce Prendiville with a leg injury.

Scores were scarce in the third quarter with only Declan O Carroll (O Rahillys) and Pa O Sullivan (free) on target. Stephen Wallace and Pa O Sullivan then traded points. Twenty minutes into the half the teams were still deadlocked at 0-8 each. Then O Rahillys had points from Vinnie Murphy, Gary Hussey and Murphy again to put daylight between the sides. Rangers, with Mike Hassett, Tommy Byrne and Paul Griffin piling on the pressure, managed to claw back to the minimum. They had chances to get a draw but failed. They were short some of their star players such as Mark O Connor, Gerard Murphy, Liam Hassett, Timmy Fleming, Paudie Sheahan, Billy O Shea and Mike F. Russell.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, John Sheehan, Adrian Hassett, Eoin Ferris, Eoin O Connell, Tommy Byrne (0-2), Shane O Sullivan (0-1), Mike Hassett, Pa Murphy (capt.), Pa O Sullivan (0-3, 2 frees), Pierce Prendiville, Paul Griffin (0-2), Brian Gannon (0-1), Conor Kearney (0-1), Billy O Sullivan. Subs: James O Shea for P. Prendiville (inj.), Brendan Fitzgerald for B. Gannon.

Ref: Maurice O Sullivan (Ballyheigue).

 

Rd. 2 on Sun. 12^th April at Deerpark: Dr. Crokes 0-14; Laune Rangers 1-8.

A large crowd and perfect underfoot conditions contributed to make that game a classic. Both teams were very fast and fit. Throughout the hour, the teams were level on seven occasions and it took a terrific golden spell in the last ten minutes for Dr. Crokes to move clear of their opponents.

From the throw-in a blistering pace was set by both teams with the home side adopting the highly successful tactic of not letting Laune Rangers down the centre of the field but forcing them to play on the wings. That tactic was key to the Crokes’ victory. The midfield tussle was evenly contested by both sides. That entertaining game was in the balance to the end and Rangers could count themselves unlucky not to have come away with a draw when early in the opening half Tommy Byrne’s blistering goal-bound shot beat Peter O Brien and was frantically scooped off the line by Brian McCarthy.

Crokes played with a strong breeze in the first half, scoring inside two minutes per Roland Neher. Rangers replied with a point from Pa O Sullivan in the third minutes and another from Billy O Sullivan three minutes later. Crokes continued to pile on the pressure and were rewarded with a point from Vince Casey in the 11^th minute. The only goal of that highly competitive game came midway through the half when Pa Murphy of Laune Rangers collected on his own goal-line, sending a long ball to midfield where Johnny Lynch won possession and, despite pressure from the Crokes’ halfback line, found the unmarked James O Shea on the wing. O Shea moved quickly along the sideline, where Pa O Sullivan had come across the field to collect the pass and, in turn, found Liam Hassett on the edge of the home side’s square. He made no mistake, giving Peter O Brien no chance from close range. At the other end of the field, Rangers’ custodian, Peter Lyons, was called upon to bring off a great save when Danny Cooper slipped Adrian Hassett with a goal at his mercy. The second quarter was dominated by the home side, which had four points without reply from Roland Neher, James Fleming and two from Connie Murphy. The halftime score was Dr. Crokes 0-6; Laune Rangers 1-3. At halftime, Rangers substituted the injured Eoin O Connell and introduced Garrath Sheehan.

Rangers had a whirlwind start to the second half, scoring two points from Paul Griffin inside the first minute but the home side responded with points from Vince Casey and Danny Cooper. Rangers’ danger-man Pa O Sullivan had a long-range point in the 5^th minute. O Sullivan looked very sharp throughout the game and showed no ill-effects of his exploits with the Kerry U-21 side the previous day when he scored 1-4 to secure Kerry’s Munster Championship crown. Brian Clarke could consider himself very lucky to have finished the game following a tackle on Rangers’ Tommy Byrne. Tempers flared as referee Dan O Sullivan intervened and he succeeded in restoring order and play continued. Not so lucky, however, was Rangers’ centre-back Pa Murphy, who was dismissed 25 minutes into the half for a high tackle on Mike Cooper.

Both sides exchanged points between the 11^th and 20^th minutes with the home side’s scores coming from Roland Neher (2) and Brian Clarke (1), all frees. Rangers responded with points from Pa O Sullivan and a superb 50m free from Billy O Sullivan. Dr. Crokes were given a golden chance to seal the game in the 22^nd minute when Batt Moriarty cut through the Rangers’ defence and slipped past the advancing Peter Lyons. His goal-bound shot, however, was cleared by Adrian Hassett. A minute later, Lyons was in trouble again, having moved off his line to intercept Connie Murphy. Murphy’s well-struck shot was brilliantly tipped over the bar by the quick reflexes of the alert Shane O Sullivan. Crokes were rewarded with a point from Roland Neher and Danny Cooper in the dying seconds of that pulsating game. However, time ran out for a gallant Killorglin side and, on a day when football was the real winner, a draw would have been a fair result. Rangers were best served by Shane O Sullivan, Brendan Fitzgerald, Tommy Byrne, Paul Griffin, Billy O Sullivan and the tireless Pa O Sullivan.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Eoin Ferris, Adrian Hassett, Eoin O Connell, Shane O Sullivan, Pa Murphy, Brendan Fitzgerald, Johnny Lynch, Tommy Byrne, Brian Gannon, Paul Griffin (0-2), James O Shea, Pa O Sullivan (0-4, 1 free), Liam Hassett (1-0), Billy O Sullivan (0-2, 1 free). Sub: Garrath Sheehan for E. O Connell.

Ref: Dan O Sullivan (Currow).

 

Rd. 3 on Sun. 19^th April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 2-7; An Ghaeltacht 1-13.

In a game played in blustery conditions, An Ghaeltacht dominated possession, before finally reflecting it on the score-board to win. From the throw-in, An Ghaeltacht got possession and a long ball by Tomás Ó Sé, down the left wing, found Dara Ó Cinnéide, who turned inside his man and, from 35m, lofted a high ball over the bar. Laune Rangers’ reply came in the 3^rd minute, when a long ball by James O Shea reached Liam Hassett on the 20m line, far out on the right. Soloing the ball, he moved back out the field to make space for himself and pointed. An Ghaeltacht quickly replied through Cathal Ó Dubhda, pointing from 13m with ease. At that stage, An Ghaeltacht midfield was on top and it was to stay that way for the rest of the game, with Dara Ó Sé in especially fine form.

However, they were rocked on their heels when a kick-out reached Mike Hassett, who took it up the field before passing to John Sheehan. He laid it on to Liam Hassett, whose kick went into the square. An Ghaeltacht goalkeeper appeared to have it in his grasp, but he dropped it and, in the confusion, Billy O Sullivan got a toe to the ball to give Rangers a surprise lead of 1-1 to 0-2. They followed it up with a wide from Conor Kearney from a good angle. However, An Ghaeltacht came back into the game and Dara Ó Cinnéide pointed a free from 25m after a foul on himself. For all their possession in that half, An Ghaeltacht found it difficult to get inside the Rangers’ defence, which was superb in hassling and blocking down. Rangers were more successful in their forays up-field, Pa O Sullivan pointing in the 17^th minute, when a long ball into Liam Hassett was broken out to him. They scored another point almost immediately when a shot for a point by Liam Hassett hit the upright and came down. Pa O Sullivan grabbed the ball but his goal-bound shot was blocked and Billy O Sullivan pointed the rebound. An Ghaeltacht fought back for a point by Cathal Ó Dubhda in the 21^st minute to leave two points between the sides. Rangers again made better use of their limited possession, when James O Shea soloed up the left wing before leaving the ball off to Pa O Sullivan and the Kerry U-21 star pointed. Dara Ó Cinnéide pointed twice to leave the halftime score at 1-4 to 0-6 in favour of the home team.

The second half started in a flurry of action. This time, Rangers were the team to score straight from the throw-in, James O Shea pointing from 25m out. Aodán Mac Gearailt made no mistake from 21m at the other end. A Dara Ó Cinnéide free in the 35^th minute levelled the scores and, with Gaeltacht slowly getting into top gear, it looked as if they might finish the stronger. That was emphasised when a goal from Criostóir Ó Cathasaigh in the 37^th minute put the West-Kerry men three points ahead. They followed that up with a point in the 42^nd minute from Ó Cinnéide. A wide by Mike Hassett did not help the home side’s cause and another from brother Liam meant that four points still lay between the sides. In the 47^th minute, An Ghaeltacht extended their lead to five points per Aodan Mac Gearailt. That was followed by another by Tomás Ó Sé after a great solo run. With ten minutes left to play, An Ghaeltacht led by seven points and looked the stronger team. A point in the 53^rd minute by Pa O Sullivan reduced the lead but a pointed free by Dara Ó Cinnéide restored the seven points’ lead.

Pa O Sullivan again, with a 21m free, blazed a low shot for a goal but it went too high and he had to settle for a point. At that stage only a goal would do for the Killorglin men and they knew it, with misses from Billy O Sullivan and Jason Griffin before finally scoring one on the stroke of fulltime. A Liam Hassett ball found substitute Jason Griffin on the edge of the square, but he fell. He passed the ball out, which landed on the ground and Shane O Sullivan, rushing in, crashed the ball to the net. That was the last score of the game, leaving An Ghaeltacht victorious by one goal. Best for the Rangers were Pa O Sullivan, Shane O Sullivan and Mike Hassett.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Eoin Ferris, Adrian Hassett, Mark O Connor, Shane O Sullivan (1-0), John Sheehan, Brendan Fitzgerald, Conor Kearney, Mike Hassett, Pa O Sullivan (0-4, 1 free), Paul Griffin, James O Shea (0-1), Brian Gannon, Liam Hassett (0-1), Billy O Sullivan (1-1). Subs: John Moriarty for M. O Connor, Jason Griffin for B. Gannon, Derry O Sullivan for P. Griffin.

 

Rd. 4 on Sun. 26^th April at Currow: Currow 0-9; Laune Rangers 2-7.

Two goals from the boot of Kerry star Mike Frank Russell ensured that Laune Rangers collected their first win of the league campaign. However, the game was not without its controversy, in that, other than Russell, no Kerry U-21 player was allowed play for his club during the weekend. That deprived the Currow team of Liam Brosnan and Jack Dennehy, both influential players. The playing of Russell had the blessing of the Kerry selectors, in that he had been out for some time with a hamstring injury and needed the match practice.

The first score of the game came in the 12^th minute when Johnny McGlynn was on target for Currow and he followed that up with a great solo point four minutes later. Rangers’ first score did not come until the 17^th minute, with Billy O Sullivan receiving a pass and popping it over the bar. Currow fought back and Con Fleming pointed. In the 25^th minute Paul Griffin cut in along the by-line. His shot was low and hard and hit the butt of the far upright. The ball came out into the arms of Mike Frank Russell, who made no mistake, burying the ball in the back of the net to put his side ahead by 1-3 to 0-4. Just before halftime Johnny McGlynn pointed a free to leave his side trailing by only one point, 1-3 to 0-5.

Five minutes into the second half, Russell struck for his second goal. Billy O Sullivan took a free into the square, Mike Hassett flicked it on to Russell and he flicked it to the back of the net, to give the Rangers a four-point lead. Shortly afterwards Leonard McEnery was sent to the line and that left Currow with an uphill battle. Pa Dennehy scored a point in the 40^th minute but Brian Gannon restored Rangers four-point lead four minutes later. McGlynn pointed from close range but again Rangers used their extra man to good advantage, Pa Murphy scoring a great point from all of 50m. Pa Dennehy and Billy O Sullivan exchanged points and the scoring was completed by a Tommy Byrne free and a Denis Dennehy point from play. Best for the Rangers were Mike Frank Russell, Adrian Hassett and Tommy Byrne.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Eoin Ferris, Adrian Hassett, Mark O Connor, Pa Murphy (0-1), Mike Hassett, Shane O Sullivan, Conor Kearney, Tommy Byrne (0-1), Brian Gannon (0-2), Paul Griffin, James O Shea, Mike Frank Russell (2-0), Liam Hassett, Billy O Sullivan (0-3).

 

Rd. 5 on Sat. 16^th May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 1-16; Glenflesk 0-12.

Kerry’s Eye carried the following report: “Laune Rangers are back. That was the clear message the Killorglin side gave on Saturday evening, when they dismissed the challenge of Glenflesk. Fresh from their Round 4 victory over Currow, the Killorglin side looked fitter. The first half of this exciting game saw Rangers’ full-forward Liam Hassett lay the foundation for his side’s victory with a splendid goal 19 minutes into the half. Hassett’s goal began when Shane O Sullivan took a sideline kick and his long-range effort found James O Shea on the wing. He linked up with Paul Griffin to set up the in-running Hassett who gave Glenflesk’s goalkeeper, Tony Murphy, no chance from close range. Hassett had an outstanding game for his side, scoring an additional 3 points from play in the opening half.

Laune Rangers opened the scoring in the first minute when Tommy Byrne sent a long free down-field to Paul Griffin, who scored a well-taken point. A minute later Glenflesk responded with a point from full-forward, John Crowley, who scored just 2 points over the hour and failed to shake off the attentions of fullback Adrian Hassett. A feature of the game was the outstanding defensive work of Laune Rangers and in particular Eoin Ferris, Mark O Connor, John Sheehan and Mike Hassett. Rangers dominated play between the 4^th and 10^th minutes, scoring 4 points from Liam Hassett (2), Shane O Sullivan and Pa O Sullivan, a free. Pa O Sullivan scored 5 points over the hour and 3 from well-struck free kicks.

Glenflesk’s second score of the game came in the 10^th minute. Midfielder Dermot Kelly cut through the Rangers’ defence and struck a goal-bound shot. It was brilliantly saved by Killorglin’s corner back, Eoin Ferris. He dived full-length onto Kelly’s boot but, in the process, fouled the midfielder. Paud O Donoghue converted the resulting free. Liam Hassett had another point for the home side in the 11^th minute, with Paud O Donoghue responding for the visitors and, after 12 minutes, Laune Rangers led by 0-6 to 0-3.

A golden patch for Glenflesk between the 14^th and 17^th minutes saw them register 3 points, all from Paud O Donoghue. Their joy was short-lived, however, when Liam Hassett scored his goal in the 19^th minute. Glenflesk responded with a long range point from Paud O Donoghue and that was their last score of the half. Killorglin continued to press forward and it yielded 3 more points from Paul Griffin (2) and a magnificent effort from Mike Frank Russell from an acute angle close to the end-line. At halftime, the home side led by 1-9 to 0-7.

The second half was an exciting affair and played at a very fast pace. Laune Rangers opened the scoring after just 10 seconds when Pa O Sullivan scored a point following a pass from Tommy Byrne. The tall midfielder marked Co. Senior star, Seamus Moynihan to perfection. While Moynihan’s superior fitness enabled him to roam the field, Byrne was his match in the 50/50 situations. Glenflesk matched the home side for the first 11 minutes of the second half, scoring 2 points from frees by Paud O Donoghue, with Rangers responding with a free by Mike Frank Russell. The Killorglin side completely dominated the period between the 11^th and 26^th minutes, scoring four points from Shane O Sullivan, Mike Frank Russell and two from frees by the very accurate Pa O Sullivan. Mike Frank Russell cut through the Glenflesk defence only to see his powerful goal effort saved by Tony Murphy at the expense of a ‘45’, which he converted.

Glenflesk did come back into the game briefly, scoring three points in the dying minutes from John Crowley and two from Paud O Donoghue. Laune Rangers’ final score came from the boot of Pa O Sullivan and, in the end, victory went to the better team in what was an excellent afternoon’s football. For the Rangers this was a vital win, having started poorly in the League. They had to line out without the services of Conor Kearney, Gerard Murphy, Eoin O Connell and Johnny Lynch but showed all the class and fitness that made them the most feared team in Kerry. They had outstanding performers in Eoin Ferris, Adrian Hassett, Shane O Sullivan, Tommy Byrne, Pa Murphy, M.F. Russell, Pa O Sullivan, Liam Hassett and Paul Griffin. Full marks to Laune Rangers mentors for supplying a comprehensive team sheet prior to the game.”

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Eoin Ferris, Adrian Hassett, Mark O Connor, John Sheehan, Mike Hassett, Shane O Sullivan (0-2), Tommy Byrne, Pa Murphy (capt.), Michael Frank Russell (0-3, 1 free), Paul Griffin (0-3), James O Shea, Pa O Sullivan (0-5, 3 frees), Liam Hassett (1-3), Billy O Sullivan. Sub: Jason Griffin for P. Griffin (inj.).

Ref: Dave Nelligan (Knocknagoshel).

 

Rd. 6 on Sun. 24^th May at Sneem: Sneem 0-9; Laune Rangers 0-12.

Kerry’s Eye reported as follows: “Played in perfect conditions for football at Fr. Walshe Park, Sneem, the slight breeze favoured Sneem in the first half. Straight from the throw-in, they opened the scoring with a point from Michael Hussey. Laune Rangers equalised in the 6^th minute, with a Liam Hassett point. In the 10^th minute, Sneem broke through the Rangers’ defence but Peter Lyons saved from a Sean Hussey shot. In the 12^th minute, John Sheehan missed a glorious chance of a goal, when he shot wide. A minute later, Laune Rangers took the lead with a point from Paul Griffin. Kieran Burns levelled the scores again with a point in the 17^th minute and the Ring of Kerry side hit a purple patch from here to halftime with five points. Leonard Burns got two and Michael Hussey got the other three. Rangers replied with points from Liam Hassett and James O Shea to leave the halftime score at 0-7 to 0-4 in favour of the home team.

Paul Griffin opened Rangers’ second half account with a point in the 33^rd minute. Pa O Sullivan added another two minutes later with a point from a free. He repeated the feat in the 40^th minute to level the scores at 0-7 each. In the 42^nd minute, Tommy Byrne gave Laune Rangers the lead with a fine point, followed a minute later by a Pa O Sullivan pointed free. Sean O Sullivan reduced the lead in the 47^th minute with a fine point. Laune Rangers countered again three minutes later with a Pa O Sullivan free following a foul on Tommy Byrne. James O Shea added another point a minute later to leave Rangers leading by 0-11 to 0-8 with nine minutes left. With five minutes to go, Michael Hussey pulled a point back for Sneem. With time almost up, Rangers broke up-field and Michael Frank Russell pointed from a free after being fouled himself. This proved to be the last score in a fine game of football.

This was a game in which both sets of backs excelled, with Rangers laying the foundation for this victory with a powerful halfback line of John Sheehan, Mike Hassett and Shane O Sullivan. Tommy Byrne and Conor Kearney shaded the midfield battle, while up front Liam Hassett was the best of a subdued forward line.”

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Pa Murphy (capt.), Adrian Hassett, Mark O Connor, John Sheehan, Mike Hassett, Shane O Sullivan, Tommy Byrne (0-1), Conor Kearney, Brian Gannon, Paul Griffin (0-2), James O Shea (0-2), Pa O Sullivan (0-4, frees), Liam Hassett (0-2), Michael Francis Russell (0-1, free). Sub: Billy O Sullivan for Mark O Connor (inj.).

 

Rd. 7 on Sat. 11^th July at Connolly Park: Austin Stacks 2-10; Laune Rangers 2-11.

Timmy Sheehan (a former Stack’s player) reported in the Kerryman as follows: “Precious Co. League points were at stake in Connolly Park and, at the end of a dramatic encounter, Laune Rangers, with a late flourish, which yielded 2-2 in the final six minutes, secured a win against all the odds. While one would have to admire Laune Rangers for maintaining their momentum right up to the final whistle, and credit ace marksman, Gerard Murphy, for securing the match-winning goals, one has to feel sympathy for Stacks, who were six points clear with five minutes left. Stacks paid the price for a lapse in concentration when it seemed that the game was won.

Billy Sheehan registered the very first score for Stacks in the opening minute but it was Rangers who took control of proceedings for a period after that. Points from Mike Frank Russell, Paul Griffin and two from Pa O Sullivan ensured that they enjoyed a three points’ lead by the tenth minute. However, the pendulum swung back in favour of Stacks thanks to three points from the outstanding Darren Ahern, which levelled matters by the 18^th minute. Billy Sheehan and Pa O Sullivan (free) exchanged further points and, as the half drew to a close, Rangers edged ahead with points by Russell (free) and (James) O Shea.

In the second half, Ahern (free) and Russell exchanged early points before a Pa Laide free narrowed the gap to the minimum. Then Stacks struck for a goal by Darren Ahern, who showed admirable control and composure to slot home a ground shot for the opening goal of the game. It gave Stacks a tremendous boost at quite an opportune time and, after a Pa O Sullivan free had narrowed the gap to a single point at the end of the third quarter, the Tralee side took complete control. Points from McEvoy and Kennelly and an outstanding goal from Billy Sheehan five minutes from the end left the Rockies six points clear.

However, you write off Laune Rangers at your peril. Inspired by the promptings of both Liam and Mike Hassett, the Killorglin side staged a remarkable recovery. Substitute Gerard Murphy found the net for them and, although Stacks went back up-field for a point by J.P. O Neill, Rangers were now in full cry. Points were scored by Paul Griffin and Liam Hassett and then came a golden goal, in overtime, from Gerard Murphy. That goal sealed a most unlikely victory for Rangers, though their heads never dropped and one would have to credit such as Mike Hassett for rising to the challenge, when the need was greatest. He certainly utilised possession to maximum effect.”

Best for Rangers were Pa Murphy, John Sheehan, Shane O Sullivan, Tommy Byrne, Paul Griffin, Mike Frank Russell, Mike and Liam Hassett and super-sub, Gerard Murphy.

Laune Rangers: Liam Foley, Mark O Connor, Pa Murphy (capt.), Joe Hayes, John O Sullivan, John Sheehan, Shane O Sullivan, Tommy Byrne, Mike Hassett, Pa O Sullivan (0-4, 3 frees), Paul Griffin (0-2), James O Shea (0-1), Brian Gannon, Liam Hassett (0-1), Mike F. Russell (0-3, 1 frees). Subs: Eoin Ferris for J. Hayes, Gerard Murphy (2-0) for J. O Sullivan.

Ref: Denis Reidy (Ballymac).

 

Rd. 8 on Sun. 26^th July at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 2-15; Rathmore 0-7.

Con Dennehy reported as follows in Kerry’s Eye: “A superb Laune Rangers side served notice to all comers that they will be the side to beat in this year’s County Championship when they completely outclassed a poor Rathmore side in the County League. A very fit and fast Killorglin side dominated all sectors of the field and, despite the absence of inter-county star, Mike Frank Russell, they scored 2-15, most of the scores coming from play.

Laune Rangers welcomed back Kerry star Billy O Shea, who had a great game for the home side (His first since the 1997 All-Ireland Final). O Shea is fit and got involved in the game from the throw-in. The game was less than a minute old when O Shea opened the scoring with a splendid point that grazed the crossbar. A minute later, the lion-hearted Rangers’ midfielder Tommy Byrne, sent a long ball down the field to Pa Murphy, who linked up with Pa O Sullivan for a top-class goal. Rangers were completely on top in this opening quarter, adding more points from Paul Griffin and Gerard Murphy before Rathmore opened their scoring with a point from team captain Gerry Murphy in the 13^th minute.

Laune Rangers, with Tommy Byrne on top at midfield, continued to press forward, adding six points without reply between the 14^th and 23^rd minutes. Rangers’ points came from Paul Griffin (2), a splendid point from Tommy Byrne, frees from Gerard Murphy and Pa O Sullivan and then a brilliant effort from Billy O Sullivan who shook off three defenders to score from an acute angle. In the last five minutes of this opening half Rathmore came back into the game with Kenneth O Keeffe scoring from the wing and then came the visitors’ only goal. One of Rathmore’s best players, Donal Murphy, cleared a long ball up-field where Shane O Keeffe collected and linked up with Michael D. Cahill. Padraig Murphy moved the ball on to Kenneth O Keeffe and finally Gerry Murphy slipped inside the Rangers’ back-line to score from close range. At halftime Rangers led by 1-9 to 1-2 and the home side  had the luxury of shooting 7 wides in the opening half.

The second half opened with a Laune Rangers’ point from dynamic wing-back Brian Gannon after just 40 seconds. Rathmore responded with a long-range point from the hard-working Michael D. Cahill. The game was just two minutes old when Rangers struck for their second goal. Rathmore goalkeeper, Jameson Hughes, brought off a point-blank save from James O Shea but the rebound found the in-running Pa O Sullivan who made no mistake. Pa O Sullivan had a terrific game and caused major problems for his marker, fullback Tom O Sullivan. Points were exchanged by both teams with James O Shea on target for Rangers and Gerry Murphy responding for Rathmore. Rangers were clearly on top at midfield, with a very fit Tommy Byrne roaming the field at will, creating many scoring chances for his side.

In the 14^th minute, Rangers had an excellent point from Gerard Murphy, who shook off three defenders to register this score. Rathmore responded with two points from Gerry Murphy, who had a good afternoon, scoring a total of 1-5 for his side. In the last 10 minutes, however, Rangers shifted up a gear, scoring 4 quick points without reply from Liam Hassett, Mike Hassett, Pa O Sullivan and Gerard Murphy, to run out deserving and convincing winners. A feature of their play was their ability to score., with all 6 forwards and both midfielders, in addition to a wing-back, all scoring. The overall team performance was excellent. The Hassett brothers played superbly with Liam having a great game acting as a third midfielder. In the back-line Pa Murphy, Mark O Connor, Adrian Hassett and Eoin Ferris were all superb. Brian Gannon played very well and used his speed to good effect, setting up a number of important attacks. Tommy Byrne was simply outstanding as he roamed the field, while up front Paul Griffin, Pa O Sullivan and Gerard Murphy caused the Rathmore backs major problems over the hour. Billy O Shea was a delight to watch as he set up attack after attack.”

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Adrian Hassett, Eoin Ferris, Mark O Connor, Pa Murphy (capt.), John Sheehan, Brian Gannon (0-1), Tommy Byrne (0-1), Mike Hassett (0-1), Paul Griffin (0-3), Liam Hassett (0-1), James O Shea (0-1), Billy O Shea (0-2), Pa O Sullivan (2-2, 1 free), Gerard Murphy (0-3, 1 free). Subs: Garrath Sheehan for B. O Shea, Joe Hayes for B. Gannon.

Ref: Richie Williams (Fossa).

 

Rd. 9 on Sat. 23^rd Aug. at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 1-16; Dingle 2-7.

Laune Rangers overcame the challenge of a youthful Dingle side in that game. Dingle was always struggling to keep up with the home side, who were still missing Mike Frank Russell. However, the two Hassett brothers played superbly at midfield to help set up an attacking platform for the Rangers’ forwards to score some great points.

Dingle opened the scoring with a point from Murt Moriarty. Rangers came back with Kerry U-21 star, Pa O Sullivan, to the fore and he scored an equaliser in the 3^rd minute. Two minutes later, O Sullivan soloed through the defence and virtually untouched tucked the ball past Diarmuid Murphy in the Dingle goal. Dingle responded with a Fintan Ashe point. Further points for Rangers from Pa O Sullivan, Trevor Gannon and Liam Hassett gave them a comfortable lead coming up to the short whistle. However, late in the half, John O Dowd was on hand to slam the ball to the back of the Killorglin net to give his side some hope. The halftime score was 1-8 to 1-2 in favour of the home team.

Rangers took control of the second half and scored points at will, with Pa O Sullivan and Gerard Murphy to the fore. O Sullivan ended the game with a personal tally of 1-6 and had the Dingle defence working overtime to try and curb his threat. At midfield, the Hassett brothers were working well together, continuing where they had left off in the first half. A goal by John Flannery briefly raised the hopes of the West-Kerry team but Rangers struck back almost immediately with two points from Liam Hassett to seal the issue. Best for the Rangers were Mark O Connor and Pa Murphy in defence, Mike and Liam Hassett at midfield, while Brian Gannon and Pa O Sullivan led the way in attack.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Eoin Ferris, Adrian Hassett, Joe Hayes, Mark O Connor, Pa Murphy, Shane O Sullivan, Mike Hassett, Liam Hassett (0-2), Garrath Sheehan (0-1), Paul Griffin (0-1), Mikey Griffin, Trevor Gannon (0-4), Pa O Sullivan (1-6), Gerard Murphy (0-2). Subs: Brian Curran and Pat McKenna (both played).

 

Rd. 10 on Sun. 6^th Sept. at Castleisland: Desmonds 1-9; Laune Rangers 1-15.

Laune Rangers’ better teamwork was the difference between those two teams, in a game played in wet and windy conditions. Rangers were first to score with a free after two minutes. Gerard Murphy increased to two points after four minutes. Darby Buckley opened for Desmonds with a long-range point after 7 minutes and Brian Gannon made it 0-3 to 0-1 in the 10^th minute. Niall Dillon scored Desmonds’ second point in the 14^th minute and Tim Broderick punished Rangers with a well-taken goal midway through the half. Gerard Murphy replied immediately with a great point from play but John Brennan kept Desmonds in front with a point from way out. Kevin Lynch increased the lead with a point in the 20^th minute. That was Desmonds’ last score of the half as Laune Rangers took control with points by Mike Frank Russell and Gerard Murphy. Pa O Sullivan goaled for Rangers following a great pass by Liam Hassett. The last point was from Pa O Sullivan to give Rangers a halftime lead of 1-8 to 1-4.

Desmonds’ Jerome Stack cut the lead to 3 points one minute after the restart. Points by Pa O Sullivan and Brian Gannon stretched the lead for Rangers as Mikey Griffin replaced Gerard Murphy. The better teamwork of the Killorglin men saw them stretch their lead with points by Mike Frank Russell and Liam Hassett. Kevin Lynch pointed two frees and Eric Nelligan closed the scoring with a point.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Eoin Ferris, Adrian Hassett, Mark O Connor, John Sheehan, Pa Murphy, Mike Hassett, Tommy Byrne, Liam Hassett (0-1), Paul Griffin, Brian Gannon (0-2), Gerard Murphy (0-3), Trevor Gannon, Pa O Sullivan (1-3), Mike Frank Russell (0-6). Sub: Mikey Griffin for G. Murphy.

 

Rd. 11 on Sat. 24^th Oct. at J.P. O Sullivan Park: Laune Rangers 2-5; Milltown/Castlemaine 0-4.

That game also doubled as the Mid-Kerry Senior League game between the two sides. Mike Carroll, Milltown/Castlemaine, reported on the game for the Kerryman as follows: ‘Goals from Pat McKenna and Liam Hassett, one in each half, were the main factors in this Laune Rangers victory. The inclement weather really turned this game into something of a lottery and players from both sides found it hard to adapt to the wet and windy conditions. The J.P. O Sullivan Park was deemed unplayable on Saturday morning, so the game went ahead at Rangers’ newly acquired pitch at Cloon.

Rangers, who lined out without Tommy Byrne and Johnny Lynch, played with the considerable wind at their backs in the first half but failed to capitalise on the advantage to any great extent. In fact, they kicked ten wides and led by just three points at the interval. It took five minutes for the first score of the game and it went to Rangers’ wing-forward Mike Frank Russell, who gained possession and he shot for a point. The ball dropped short but the Milltown/Castlemaine goalkeeper failed to hold it and full-forward Pat McKenna was on hand to blast the ball to the net for Rangers’ first score. Two minutes later came Milltown/Castlemaine’s first score when Ian Twiss put over a difficult free from near the sideline against the breeze. It was a score that lifted the men in green and they maintained pressure with Martin Burke forcing a great save from Peter Lyons in the 10^th minute. A minute later, Russell had a pointed free before, in the 15^th minute, Lyons was once again called into action when he tipped over a goal-bound shot from Ian Twiss.

With the two Hassetts, Mike and Liam, playing well at midfield, Rangers began to get on top in the last ten minutes of the game and had numerous chances to stretch their lead. However, wayward shooting from their forward line meant that they added only one more point before the interval. This came in the 22^nd minute when Gerard Murphy put over a tremendous long-range effort. This left the halftime score at 1-2 to 0-2 in favour of Rangers and, having played with the strong wind, they looked like having an uphill battle if they were to hold onto that lead.

On the resumption, Rangers switched Pa Murphy and John Sheehan, Murphy moving to centre halfback and Sheehan taking up the No. 2 position to curb the threat of Twiss who had caused the Rangers’ defence considerable problems in the first half. Inside a minute an Ian Twiss free had reduced the deficit to just two points and it was looking good for the visitors. From the resulting kick-out they once again attacked and had justifiable claims for a penalty denied when goalkeeper Peter Lyons seemed to hold down corner-forward Martin Burke on the edge of the small square. Referee Mike O Donoghue waved play-on momentarily but, following a melee, stopped play and booked both Lyons and Burke.

Nine minutes into the half and the defining score of the game arrived. Midfielder Liam Hassett collected the ball at pace and cut through the losers’ defence. He unleashed a low shot that was well saved by Murphy but, showing tremendous tenacity, Hassett followed through and whipped the ball to the net before any of the backline reacted. It was a score the eventual losers never recovered from and, from that stage on, Rangers were in command. That goal put five points between the sides, 2-2 to 0-3, with 20 minutes left and it was in that 20 minutes Rangers showed why they are such a hard side to beat. With the halfback line of Mark O Connor, Pa Murphy and Billy O Shea (who played a huge part in his team’s success) giving tremendous support to the Hassetts at midfield, Rangers surged forward in numbers keeping possession against the wind. To their credit, the Milltown/Castlemaine backs held firm under the onslaught but, in the process, conceded frees in the 46^th and 47^th minutes, both of which were converted by Pa O Sullivan.

Totally dominating around the centre, Rangers were in control from there until the finish and Mike Frank Russell rounded off their scoring with a 54^th minute free to put his side eight points ahead. Milltown/Castlemaine’s only other score of the half came a minute from fulltime when Twiss converted a 20m free. The fact that the losers didn’t score from play with the assistance of the wind in the second half shows what an off-day their forwards had. They will know that no team can expect to win crucial games scoring only one score from play. However, having said that, Rangers only scored one point from play, also, but they managed the two crucial goals and that, in essence, is what separated the sides at the finish. The victory for Rangers meant that they reclaimed the Mid-Kerry Senior League title. Milltown/Castlemaine were the title holders, while Rangers also made sure of their place in the Lee Strand Div. 1 final against Kerins O Rahillys.

On a black day for the losers, they lost their Mid-Kerry League title and also lost their Div. 1 status. With so much at stake because of the two competitions doubled up, one would have expected a much closer and livelier game but, in truth, the weather and conditions had a major bearing on the proceedings. In fact, credit must go to both sides in that, despite the unsavoury conditions, the game was played in an excellent spirit and, apart from that minor incident just after the interval, things ran smooth and they made referee Mike O Donoghue’s assignment an easy one. It was a game in which defenders on both sides dominated throughout the hour. Hence the low scoring and, out of the total of nine points scored, only two came from play. It was that kind of game.

On the day Rangers were best served by Peter Lyons in goals, Pa Murphy, John Sheehan and the excellent Billy O Shea in the backline. Midfield was really their strong point as Mike and Liam Hassett put in a tremendous hour of hard graft and they outplayed the losers’ partnership of Joe Daly and, to a lesser extent, Mike Dennehy. Mike Burke did improve matters when he was switched there in the second half but all was lost at that stage. Rangers’ forward line was subdued for long periods and only Mike Frank Russell and Pa O Sullivan, in the second half moreover, showed any sparkle.”

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Pa Murphy, Adrian Hassett, Shane O Sullivan, Mark O Connor, John Sheehan, Billy O Shea, Mike Hassett, Liam Hassett (1-0), Mike Frank Russell (0-2, frees), Pa O Sullivan (0-2, frees), Paul Griffin, Gerard Murphy (0-1), Pat McKenna (1-0), Trevor Gannon.

Milltown/Castlemaine: Mike Murphy, Noel Spillane, Sean Burke, Mike Quirke, John Giles, Linus Burke, William Harmon, Joe Daly, Mike Dennehy, Alan O Connor, Gene Daly, Jason Giles, Martin Burke, Mike Burke, Ian Twiss (0-4, 3 frees). Subs: Damien Murphy for Jason Giles, Neilus Flynn for G. Daly.

Ref: Mike O Donoghue (Glenflesk).

 

Final on Sun. 22^nd Nov. at Austin Stack Park: Laune Rangers 1-10; Kerins O Rahillys 0-11.

Eamonn Horan reported in the Kerryman as follows: “A goal early in the last quarter proved to the decisive score in this very closely contested Lee Strand Co. Senior Football League final between Laune Rangers and Kerins O Rahillys but, at the end of it all, the Tralee side could count themselves a shade unlucky not to have taken the spoils. The match-winning score came 18 minutes into the second half. Rangers mounted a thundering onslaught and the ball eventually passed from Gerard Murphy to Paul Griffin and the latter fired a blazing shot at goal, which was brilliantly parried by goalkeeper, Niall Hobbart. But there was the inrushing Liam Hassett and he first-timed the breaking ball to the net from close range. It was a well-taken goal, but rather fortuitous in the circumstances and stemmed from some sloppy defending by the losers’ defence. Prior to that score, O Rahillys had opened up a two-point lead (0-10 to 0-8) and seemed to be getting on top of their opponents. There was much more purpose and poise about the Strand Road men’s game in this half and Rangers appeared to be in serious trouble.

Tommy Byrne and Johnny Lynch controlled midfield for Laune Rangers and even though O Rahillys grabbed the lead with a first-minute point from Vinny Murphy, it was Rangers who held command for most of the first half. Gerard Murphy levelled for Rangers after 6 minutes and as the game entered the second quarter the Killorglin men had forged a four-point lead with points from Gerard Murphy, Liam Hassett, Mark O Connor and Pa O Sullivan. But in an eight-minute spell to the 25^th minute, O Rahillys battled back valiantly to tie the scores at 0-5 each with points from Vinny Murphy (free), Cathal Sheehy, John O Connor and Vinny Murphy again (free). Murphy put the Tralee side ahead for the second time with a 26^th minute point from a free but James O Shea quickly equalised and, just before halftime, Paul Griffin took a pass from O Shea to shoot a fine point and Rangers went in at the break leading by 0-7 to 0-6. Once again, it was palpably obvious that O Rahillys were over-dependent on Vinny Murphy to do the business for them, but the Dubliner found himself closely shadowed by the tenacious John Sheehan from start to finish.

Vinny Murphy pointed a free in the 32^nd minute to level the scores. And O Rahillys went into a two-point lead with further points from Olly Molloy and Murphy, after Rangers’ goalkeeper, Peter Lyons, had effected a tremendous save from midfielder Vinny Murphy. Gerard Murphy reduced the deficit for Rangers with a 42^nd minute point but the Killorglin side missed the chance of an equaliser when Pa O Sullivan was off-target with a scoreable free. Then, right at the start of the last quarter, O Rahillys increased their lead with a point from John O Connor. But the game took a dramatic turn when Hassett struck for Rangers’ goal and Strand Road never quite recovered from the setback. Hassett’s opportunist strike sent Rangers into the lead (1-8 to 0-10) and it was a lead they never surrendered. Gerard Murphy was wide for the winners before Paul Griffin got on the end of a movement, involving Billy O Shea, Tommy Byrne and Gerard Murphy, to put his side two points clear. Gerard Murphy had a great chance of stretching the lead still further but he fluffed it. The game was still very much in the balance when Ger O Brien pointed a free for O Rahillys in the 57^th minute. The final score of the game fell to Laune Rangers when a flowing five-man movement, involving Billy O Shea, James O Shea, Mike Hassett and Liam Hassett was rounded off with a neatly-taken point by Tommy Byrne.

Full credit to Laune Rangers for the manner in which they came back into the game at a time when it looked like going against them. Granted, their goal had a certain element of good fortune about it, but, nevertheless, it is on such scores that a game can suddenly take a vital turning. They had their best players on the day in John Sheehan, Mark O Connor, Pa Murphy, Tommy Byrne, Johnny Lynch, Billy O Shea, Gerard Murphy, Paul Griffin and Liam Hassett.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, John Sheehan, Adrian Hassett, Shane O Sullivan, Pa Murphy (capt.), Tommy Byrne (0-1), Mark O Connor (0-1), Mike Hassett, Johnny Lynch, Paul Griffin (0-2), Liam Hassett (1-1), Billy O Shea, Gerard Murphy (0-3), Pa O Sullivan (0-1), James O Shea (0-1). Subs: Pat McKenna, Terence Houlihan, Brendan Fitzgerald, Brian Curran, Joe Hayes, Trevor Gannon, Eoin Ferris, Tony Lyons.

Kerins O Rahillys: Niall Hobbert, Philip O Connor, Morgan O Shea, Ken Savage, John Kelly, Barry O Shea, Morgan Nix, Ger O Brien (0-1), Vinnie Murphy, Haulie Kerins, Olly Molloy (0-1), John O Connor (0-2), Cathal Sheehy (0-1), Vinnie Murphy (0-6, frees), Stephen Wallace.

Ref: Pat O Sullivan (Kenmare).

The Co. League Trophy was presented to the captain, Pa Murphy, by Bill Kennedy, CEO Lee Strand, a former Laune Rangers’ great of the sixties.

Molyneaux Cup

At the Mid-Kerry Board meeting on Thurs. 26^th Feb. the following Laune Rangers players were regraded from senior status: Pierce Prendiville, James O Shea, Pa Murphy, Brian Gannon, Shane O Sullivan and Paudie Sheahan.

 

Rd. 1 on Tues. 4^th Aug. at Boherbue: John Mitchels ‘B’ 0-5; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 3-10.

Rd. 2 on Tues. 18^th Aug. at Lewis Road: Dr. Crokes ‘B’ 0-11; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 1-14.

Rd. 3 on Wed. 26^th Aug. at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 1-15; Legion ‘B’ 0-4.

Semi-final on Thurs. 10^th Sept. at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 3-17; Desmonds ‘B’ 0-4.

 

Final on Sun. 4^th Oct. at Currow: Kerins O Rahillys ‘B’ 0-14; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 0-13 (AET).

Three points from play, in extra time, from the boot of Noel O Sullivan clinched victory for Kerins O Rahillys in that final against a determined Laune Rangers side. The game had finished at 0-9 each and extra-time had to be played but Laune Rangers would wonder how they had left it behind them in the opening 60 minutes.

Laune Rangers’ captain, Joe Healy, opened the scoring with a well-taken, left-footed point in the 4^th minute. That was cancelled out by the opposing captain, Declan O Carroll, from a free. Rangers’ John Ahern got through for what looked like a certain goal but Greg Kissane effected a magnificent save.  Declan O Carroll was next to score and he added another point in the 16^th minute but that was cancelled out in the 23^rd minute with a Joe Healy free kick. Points by Trevor Gannon, Fiachra O Donoghue and Gerry O Brien gave Rangers a two-point advantage. Before halftime Nathan McDonnell reduced the lead to the minimum (0-5 to 0-4, in favour of Laune Rangers).

Rangers attacked again on the resumption and Fiachra O Donoghue drove over the bar. Derek O Brien replied for O Rahillys. O Donoghue was again on target from a placed ball in the 12^th minute but Declan O Carroll pointed a 50 yards’ free to keep the Tralee side in touch. Mark Conway and substitute Kevin Cahillane brought Rangers’ total to 0-9. Ger Moran kicked two points for the Tralee side and, in a welter of excitement, Declan O Carroll equalised and brought the game into extra-time.

O Rahillys dominated the first period, with points from Noel O Sullivan and Declan O Carroll. Trevor Gannon pulled one back for the Rangers. In the 8^th and 10^th minutes of the half, Noel O Sullivan kicked points and Joe Healy scored one at the other end and Gannon added another to leave just one point in it at the break (0-13 to 0-12 in favour of Kerins O Rahillys).

The second period of extra time was grimly contested, with only two scores being registered. Martin Nix put his side two points ahead and a Joe Healy point for the Killorglin side gave the Tralee side the narrowest of victories. Rangers’ man-of-the-match was Jason Griffin, who had a great game over the 90 minutes.

Laune Rangers ‘B’: Liam Foley, John O Donnell, Danny Cahill, Joe Hayes, Mark Conway (0-1), Timmy Moroney, Terence Houlihan, John F. O Brien, John Moriarty, Joe Healy (capt.) 0-3, Gerry O Brien (0-1), Jason Griffin, Trevor Gannon (0-3), John Ahern (0-1), Fiachra O Donoghue (0-3). Subs: Kevin Cahillane (0-1) for G. O Brien, Brian Curran for J. O Donnell, Podge Foley for M. Conway (inj.).

Ref: Denis Donovan (Desmonds).

 

Co. Junior Football League (Div. 6)

 

Rd. 3 on Sun. 19^th April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ w/o; An Ghaeltacht ‘B’ scr.

Rd. 4 on Sat. 25^th April at John Mitchels’ Pitch: John Mitchels ‘B’ 1-6; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 3-7.

A first-half goal from John Moriarty and two from Kevin Cahillane proved crucial. Joe Hayes and Karl Griffin were best in defence, with Jason Griffin, Pat McKenna and Kevin Cahillane best in attack.

Laune Rangers ‘B’: Tony Lyons Joe Hayes, Danny Cahill, John O Donnell, Robert Moriarty, Karl Griffin (0-1), John Moriarty (1-0), John F. O Brien (0-1), Liam Foley, Jason Griffin (0-1), Mikey Griffin, Derry O Sullivan (0-1), Kevin Cahillane (2-0), Pat McKenna (0-2), Joe Healy (0-1).

 

Rd. 2 on Sat. 2^nd May at Lewis Road: Dr. Crokes ‘B’ 1-13; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 2-5.

Laune Rangers ‘B’: Tony Lyons, John O Donnell, Eoin Ferris, Joe Hayes, Robert Moriarty, Karl Griffin, John Moriarty, Liam Foley, John F. O Brien, Jason Griffin (1-1), Mikey Griffin (1-0), Michael Cahillane, Kevin Cahillane, Pat McKenna, Derry O Sullivan.

 

Rd. 5 on Sat. 16^th May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 4-11; Kilcummin ‘B’ 0-9.

Danny Cahill and Karl Griffin were outstanding in defence, while John Moriarty and John F. O Brien dominated midfield. The forwards saw a plentiful supply of the ball and Mikey Griffin and John Ahern led the way to victory.

 

Rd. 6 on Sat. 23^rd May at Direen: Legion ‘B’ 0-8; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 0-14.

Laune Rangers ‘B’: Liam Foley, John O Donnell, Danny Cahill, Timmy Moroney, Terence Houlihan, Jerry O Brien, Joe Hayes, John F. O Brien, Derry O Sullivan (0-3), Joe Healy (capt.), Pat McKenna (0-1), Mikey Griffin, Kevin Cahillane (0-4), Michael Cahillane (0-2), Jason Griffin (0-2). Subs: Karl Griffin (0-2) for D. Cahill, Enda Clifford for J. Griffin.

 

Rd. 7 on Sat. 6^th June at J.P. O Sullivan Park: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 3-12; Firies ‘B’ 1-8.

Laune Rangers ‘B’: Tony Lyons, John O Donnell, Danny Cahill, Joe Hayes, Terence Houlihan, Timmy Moroney, Robert Moriarty, John F. O Brien (0-3), John Moriarty, Jason Griffin (1-3), Derry O Sullivan (0-1), Joe Healy (capt.) 0-1, Kevin Cahillane (0-3), Michael Cahillane, John Ahern (0-1). Subs: Trevor Gannon (2-0) for M. Cahillane, Garrath Sheehan for D. O Sullivan, Mark Conway for R. Moriarty.

 

Rd. 8 on Sun. 21^st June at Connolly Park: Austin Stacks ‘B’ 0-7; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 1-5.

Rd. 9 on 26^th July at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ w/o; Emmett’s ‘B’ scr.

Rd. 10 on Sun. 23^rd Aug. at J.P. O Sullivan Park: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 1-8; Beaufort ‘B’ 0-7.

Rd. 11 on 6^th Sept. at Castleisland: Desmonds ‘B’ 0-4; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 3-17.

Rd. 1 on Sat. 24^th Oct. at Cloon: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 2-9; Kerins O Rahillys ‘B’ 0-8.

That victory ensured Laune Rangers ‘B’ promotion to Div. 5 of the Co. League as champions of Div. 6.

 

Barrett Cup

Any player that had played in the Co. Senior Football Championship, the Co. Club Championship or the Molyneaux Cup, was ineligible to play in the Cahill Cup, which was played initially on a league basis. Tom Melia’s bus was hired for all of the away games to transport the players.

 

Rd. 1 on Fri. 7^th Aug: Laune Rangers ‘C’ w/o; Spa ‘B’ scr.

Rd. 2 on Fri. 14^th Aug. at Cahersiveen: St. Mary’s ‘B’ 1-15; Laune Rangers ‘C’ 1-5.

Rd. 3 on Fri. 21^st Aug. at Currow: Currow ‘B’ 1-7; Laune Rangers ‘C’ 5-9.

Quarter-final on Fri. 4^th Sept. at Direen: Laune Rangers ‘C’ 0-11; Glenflesk ‘B’ 1-4.

Semi-final on Fri. 11^th Sept. at Farranfore: Austin Stacks ‘C’ 0-9; Laune Rangers ‘C’ 0-5.

 

Co. Urban Football League

 

Rd. 1 on Fri. 8^th May at Milltown: Milltown/Castlemaine ‘B’ 0-9; Laune Rangers ‘C’ 2-9.

Rd. 2 on Fri. 15^th May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘C’ 4-11; Scartaglen ‘B’ 1-8.

Rd. 3 on Fri. 22^nd May at Annascaul: Annascaul ‘B’ 0-7; Laune Rangers ‘C’ 0-9.

Rd. 4 on Fri. 29^th May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘C’ 1-9; Kerins O Rahillys ‘C’ 2-8.

Rd. 5 on Fri. 5^th June at Cordal: Cordal ‘B’ 1-5; Laune Rangers ‘C’ 3-20.

Rd. 6 on Fri. 12^th June at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘C’ 2-10; Lispole ‘B’ 0-8.

Rd. 7 on Fri. 19^th June at Connolly Park: Austin Stacks ‘C’ 1-7; Laune Rangers ‘C’ 0-7.

Rd. 8 on Fri. 26^th June at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘C’ 4-13; Ballymac ‘B’ ^3-7

Semi-final on Fri. 24^th July in Blennerville: Laune Rangers ‘C’ 1-9; Annascaul ‘B’ 0-11.

 

Final on Fri. 31^st July at Currow: Kerins O Rahillys ‘C’ 1-7; Laune Rangers ‘C’ 0-9.

Kerins O Rahillys made good use of a fortuitous early goal to record a one point victory over Laune Rangers in that final. Given their second half performance, Strand Road just about deserved victory, as they came out with all guns blazing and forced Rangers onto the defensive. Rangers had been dominant in the first half, but were unable to convert that superiority into scores and at halftime were only one point ahead. Indeed, that goal would cause many sleepless nights for Laune Rangers’ goalkeeper, Tony Lyons, who dropped the ball at the feet of Nathan McDonnell, who gratefully accepted the chance and kicked it into the net. The Killorglin team recovered from that mishap and went on to overshadow a listless O Rahillys team in the first half.

In the sixth minute, a point from Donncha Curran opened the scoring for Laune Rangers, who took control at midfield and gathered up any breaks that came their way, turning them into attack. However, the doggedness of the Tralee backs and the slippery conditions meant that scores were few and far between. The next score of the game was a point from the free by Martin Nix. That left them two points ahead, but Laune Rangers struck back quickly. Corner-forward, Kevin Cahillane, reduced the deficit to the minimum in the 17^th minute, with a free after the ball had been touched on the ground. He followed that up two minutes later with another point, after good passing found him in the corner. That put the teams on level scores and it looked as if the Killorglin team would go on to put a stranglehold on the game. They seemed more inventive than Strand Road and had more options in attack, with Kevin Cahillane, brother Mike and Donncha Curran looking dangerous.

A point in the 24^th minute by Mike ‘Butch’ Cahillane put Rangers ahead for the first time in the game after a Strand Road attack had broken down and the ball had been moved up-field. That was the crunch of Kerins O Rahillys’ problems, in that any attack was being quickly swept up-field by the Rangers’ defence. They managed to breach the Killorglin rearguard in the 28^th minute for Timmy O Sullivan to point. Rangers had the last say in the half, when Fiachra O Donoghue pointed from 21m out after good passing up the field. That left them leading by one point, 0-6 to 1-2.

Alan O Sullivan put Laune Rangers two points ahead on the restart. Rahillys responded with a similar score after two minutes. They were now dominating midfield and when Mike Griffin pointed, things began to look ominous for the Rangers. Martin Nix was next on the scoreboard for the Tralee team, after a Rangers’ defender had touched the ball on the ground just outside his own 20m line. Another point by Derek O Brien stretched the lead to two points with 11 minutes left to play. In the 21^st minute, Fiachra O Donoghue threw Rangers a lifeline with a point from a 25m free.

The teams were very evenly matched at that stage, giving  it their all, as they looked for the scores that would turn the game in their favour. Both sides recorded wides, from Nathan McDonnell and Fiachra O Donoghue, but the scores were levelled with four minutes to go, when John Moriarty was fouled 45m out and the free was sent straight over the bar by Pat O Keeffe. With time almost up, a long ball was sent into the Laune Rangers’ square and was safely gathered by Tony Lyons. He passed the ball to a team-mate but it was touched on the ground and Martin Nix made no mistake with the 20m free. That was the winning score, but Rangers were unlucky when a quick free by Pat O Keeffe found Fiachra O Donoghue unmarked. His shot sailed wide and with it went Rangers’ last chance. Best for the Killorglin side were Pat O Keeffe, Fiachra O Donoghue and Kevin Cahillane.

Laune Rangers ‘C’: Tony Lyons, John O Donnell, Danny Cahill, Eddie Birmingham, Robert Moriarty, Karl Griffin, Timmy Moroney, John Moriarty, Pat O Keeffe (0-1), Fiachra O Donoghue (0-2), Alan O Sullivan (0-2), Donncha Curran (0-1), Kevin Cahillane (0-2), Michael Cahillane (0-1), Carl O Sullivan. Sub: Brian Gannon for M. Cahillane.

 

Mid-Kerry Senior Football Championship

That competition was sponsored by Fexco, Killorglin.

 

Semi-final on Sun. 8^th Nov. at Milltown: Milltown/Castlemaine 1-7; Laune Rangers 0-7.

The Kerryman carried the following report: “Taking example from their minors’ superb performance the previous day, Milltown/Castlemaine turned in an excellent team performance to dethrone reigning champions Laune Rangers in the Mid-Kerry Senior Football semi-final in the Paddy Burke Memorial Park, Milltown. They did so with a display of true heart and commitment and their never-say-die attitude means, for the first time since 1989, Rangers will not contest the district final.

Rangers played against the wind in the first half but it was the winners that applied the early pressure. Inside the first minute of play, a pinpoint long delivery from William Harmon found Ian Twiss on a one to one situation with Rangers’ custodian Peter Lyons. A certain goal looked on but the ever reliable Lyons spread himself to turn the ball out for a ‘45’. Twiss missed the resulting shot before Rangers’ midfielder, Liam Hassett, soloed through to convert the first score of the game. Minutes later, Linus Burke was fouled and William Harmon equalised before, in the 10^th minute, the winners struck for what was to be the all important score. Alan O Connor gained possession and cut through the Rangers’ defence. His resulting shot seemed to be going wide until full-forward Joe Daly dived full-length to punch to the net for the game’s first and only goal. This provided a huge boost to the home side and further points from Daly and Ian Twiss left them ahead 1-3 to 0-2 after the first quarter. Rangers’ other point came from a Mike Frank Russell free in the 12^th minute.

In the 16^th minute, Milltown/Castlemaine keeper Mike Murphy denied Paul Griffin in his attempt for goal and Russell was off target with the resulting ‘45’. Martin Burke stretched the winners’ lead with a 21^st minute point before Russell added another Rangers’ point a minute later. This ended the scoring for that half and at the interval Milltown/Castlemaine led by 1-4 to 0-3.

Five minutes after the restart, Twiss again obliged with a free to put his side, now playing against the wind, five points to the good. With Mike Dennehy and Mike Burke getting the better of the Hassett brothers in the midfield sector, the home side at this stage believed they could cause an upset and, with a fine team performance, they continued to dominate. Russell, again from a free, pointed for Rangers before Harmon, who put in a tremendous hour and totally outplayed Billy O Shea, stretched the home side’s lead once more, this time with a 44^th minute point. With the winners now on top in almost every sector, Rangers’ chances were dealt a severe blow when their ace marksman Mike Frank Russell was stretchered off eight minutes from time with a suspected knee ligament injury.

Gerard Murphy took over the free-taking role and he pointed to leave four points between the sides entering the final stages. Alan O Connor, another man who turned in an excellent hour, brought huge cheers when he landed a 55^th minute point but Rangers weren’t out of it yet. Two further points from Ger Murphy left just three points (1-7 to 0-7) between the sides as the game entered injury time. In a nail-biting six minutes of over-time, Rangers pressed for the equalising score, but stout and resolute defending by the winners kept them at bay. With the game almost over, referee William O Shea dismissed the Milltown/Castlemaine centre-forward (Linus Burke) and Rangers’ goalkeeper Peter Lyons for a goalmouth flare-up before finally calling proceedings to a halt.

Unlike the league final a fortnight ago, there could be no denying the men in green their moment of triumph. On Sunday last their whole attitude seemed to be different and, even when Rangers tried to raise their game, they met with strong resistance. They were out-played a most areas of the field by a seemingly fitter and more determined outfit.

Rangers, who have had a monopoly of this championship since the early ‘80’s, can have little complaints about the outcome. While many might question their hunger for this particular competition, there can be no denying they were beaten by the better team. The injury to their star forward Mike Frank Russell could have long-term consequences for them. Hopefully he will make a full return to fitness. On the day they were outplayed and only centre-back Tommy Byrne, midfielder Mike Hassett and Gerard Murphy, in the forward line, played anywhere near full potential.”

Laune Rangers were going for an unprecedented nine titles in-a-row.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, John Sheehan, Adrian Hassett, Shane O Sullivan, Mark O Connor, Tommy Byrne, Billy O Shea, Mike Hassett, Liam Hassett (0-1), James O Shea, Paul Griffin, Mike Frank Russell (0-3), Gerard Murphy (0-3), Pat McKenna, Trevor Gannon.

Milltown/Castlemaine: Gary Murphy, Damien Murphy, Sean Burke, Mike Quirke, Johnny Giles, Noel Spillane, Fionán Kelliher, Mike Burke, Mike Dennehy, William Harmon (0-2), Linus Burke, Alan O Connor (0-1), Martin Burke (0-1), Joe Daly (1-1), Ian Twiss (0-2). Subs: Mike Murphy for G. Murphy, Neilus Flynn for N. Spillane.

Ref: William O Shea (Keel).

 

Mid-Kerry Senior Football League

At the Mid-Kerry Board meeting on 10^th Feb. it was decided that there would be two groups: ‘A’ – Laune Rangers, Beaufort and Milltown/Castlemaine.

‘B’ – Glenbeigh, Keel and Cromane.

The top team in ‘B’, after the preliminary rounds, played the runner-up in ‘A’ in the semi-final, while the top team in ‘A’ went into the final. The competition was sponsored by Bunkers Bar and Restaurant, Killorglin.

 

Rd. 1 on Sun. 1^st March at Milltown: Milltown/Castlemaine 1-5; Laune Rangers 0-5.

That was a typical start of the season game. Laune Rangers took the field with an unfamiliar line-up due to inter-county commitments and a crippling injury list. However, it was the men in blue who started best and, after 15 minutes play, they had built up a four-point lead, with Milltown/Castlemaine unable to register a score. Rangers’ scores came through Brian Gannon (0-2) and one a-piece from Eoin O Sullivan and Pierce Prendiville. In the 18^th minute Ian Twiss opened the home side’s account with a point from a free but Paul Griffin quickly restored Rangers’ four-point advantage. That was to be Rangers’ last score as Milltown/Castlemaine took control. They finished the half the stronger and points from Joe McAuliffe and a goal just before halftime by Joe Daly sent the teams in level at halftime (1-2 to 0-5).

Laune Rangers were obviously disappointed with themselves at halftime, considering the amount of possession they had enjoyed when aided by the wind in the first half. On the restart, it was Milltown/Castlemaine’s turn to squander chances with some wayward shooting. Admittedly, the blustery conditions made scoring difficult. After 40 minutes the winners had drawn two points clear with points from Twiss and Alan O Connor. Later, Martin Burke sealed victory for the home side with a point two minutes from fulltime. That score followed a 20-minute spell during which neither team scored.

For Rangers, young Eoin Ferris and John Sheehan were best in defence, while Pierce Prendiville and Brian Gannon also played well. Scorers for Laune Rangers were Brian Gannon (0-2), Pierce Prendiville (0-1), Eoin O Connell (0-1) and Paul Griffin (0-1).

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Mark Conway, Adrian Hassett, John Sheehan, Thomas Walsh, Conor Kearney, Pa Murphy, Eoin Ferris, Billy O Sullivan, Brian Gannon, Paul Griffin, Garrath Sheehan, Tommy Byrne, Gerard Murphy, Eoin O Connell. Sub: Pierce Prendiville

Ref: William O Shea (Keel).

 

Rd. 2 on Sun. 8^th March at Beaufort: Beaufort 1-7; Laune Rangers 1-9.

Laune Rangers, fielding only eight of the previous year’s team, played solidly. John Sheehan opened the scoring with a point after five minutes. Beaufort replied five minutes later. Billy O Sullivan scored a goal in the 16^th minute to restore Rangers’ lead. Beaufort replied with two points before Conor Kearney punched over a point and Paul Griffin closed the scoring to leave the halftime score at 1-3 to 0-3.

Rangers started well in the second half with three points before Beaufort replied. The second half scores from Rangers came from Conor Kearney (0-3), Billy O Sullivan (0-2) and Paul Griffin (0-1). At 60 minutes the score was 1-9 to 0-7 but a disputed penalty decision four minutes into injury time was scored by Beaufort. Best for Rangers were Tony Lyons, in goals, Eoin O Connell and John Sheehan in defence, Conor Kearney, Shane O Sullivan and Billy O Sullivan in attack.

Laune Rangers: Tony Lyons, Eoin O Connell, Adrian Hassett, Eoin Ferris, Mark Conway, John Sheehan (0-1), John Moriarty, Pa Murphy, Pierce Prendiville, Brendan Fitzgerald, Derry O Sullivan, Shane O Sullivan, Paul Griffin (0-2), Conor Kearney (0-4), Billy O Sullivan (1-2). Sub: Mark O Connor for J. Moriarty (inj.).

 

Semi-final on Sun. 29^th March at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 0-17; Keel 0-7.

Laune Rangers waltzed into the final by recording an emphatic and sometimes embarrassing win over a disappointing Keel side. The men from Killorglin even had the luxury of playing the last 20 minutes with 14 men after Brian Gannon was shown the line for continually arguing over a penalty decision against Rangers.

The game was won by Rangers in the first 20 minutes when they produced the best football of the afternoon in building up a nine-point lead. Indeed, it took Keel all of 23 minutes to employ the score-board man. Rangers, who fielded their strongest side in that year’s Mid-Kerry campaign, used the long ball to great effect to Liam Hassett and to Pa O Sullivan. In those devastating 20 minutes, Hassett, O Sullivan and centre-forward Paul Griffin were running riot against the Keel defence and accounted for all nine points. How they ended without a goal was a mystery, especially after they had grazed the Keel post three times in the opening ten minutes. James O Shea (twice) and Gannon were the culprits. Nevertheless, Rangers led at halftime by 0-11 to 0-3.

As was to be expected, Laune Rangers eased their foot off the pedal in the second half, allowing Keel to restore some credibility to the damaged reputation. Rangers began the second half with two quick points, a Pa O Sullivan free and a fine effort from Shane O Sullivan. Then came the sending off. Kieran Foley had won his side a penalty when his feet went from under him after he tried to wriggle his way through the Rangers’ fullback line. Foley took the kick himself and Rangers’ replacement goalkeeper, Tony Lyons, finger-tipped the shot over the bar. Then, Brian Gannon started remonstrating with the man in the middle and was instantly sent to the line.

Rangers overcame the set-back by reverting back to business as usual, the business of scoring. Liam Hassett wrapped up his successful return to competitive fare with two long-range points. Outstanding for Rangers were Eoin Ferris and Shane O Sullivan in the backline, and the clinical trio of Pa O Sullivan, Liam Hassett and diminutive Paul Griffin up front (They scored 0-16 between them).

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Mark Conway, Adrian Hassett, Eoin Ferris, Eoin O Connell, John Sheehan, Shane O Sullivan (0-1), Pa Murphy, Conor Kearney, Brian Gannon, Paul Griffin (0-4), James O Shea, Pa O Sullivan (0-7), Liam Hassett (0-5), Billy O Sullivan. Subs: Tony Lyons for P. Lyons, John Moriarty for E. O Connell, Garrath Sheehan for B. O Sullivan.

Ref: Michael Murphy (Milltown/Castlemaine).

 

Final on Sat. 24^th Oct. at Cloon, Killorglin: Laune Rangers 2-5; Milltown/Castlemaine 0-4.

That game also doubled as a Co. League Div. 1, Round 11, game between the two sides. See above.

.Mid-Kerry Senior ‘B’ Championship

That competition was sponsored by John Quirke, Killorglin.

 

Rd. 1 on Tues. 5^th May at J.P. O Sullivan Park: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 0-2; Milltown/Castlemaine ‘B’ 1-8.

 

Rd. 2 on Tues. 12^th May at Keel: Keel ‘B’ 0-8; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 2-13.

Laune Rangers ‘B’: Liam Foley, John O Donnell, Danny Cahill, Timmy Moroney, Terence Houlihan, Karl Griffin, Brendan Fitzgerald, John F. O Brien, John Moriarty, Mikey Griffin, Pat McKenna, John Ahern, Jason Griffin, Michael Cahillane, Carl O Sullivan.

Ref: Brendan Twiss (Milltown/Castlemaine).

 

Rd. 3 on Tues. 19^th May at Beaufort: Beaufort ‘B’ lost to Laune Rangers ‘B’.

Ref: Mike Murphy (Milltown/Castlemaine)

Rd. 4 on Tues. 26^th May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 2-12; Cromane ‘B’ 0-5.

Ref: Mike Hickey (Milltown/Castlemaine).

Rd. 5 on Tues. 2^nd June at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 2-9; Glenbeigh/Glencar ‘B’ 1-6.

Laune Rangers ‘B’: Tony Lyons, John O Donnell, Danny Cahill, Joe Hayes, Terence Houlihan, Timmy Moroney, Jerry O Brien, John F. O Brien, John Moriarty, Joe Healy (capt.), Mikey Griffin, Jason Griffin, Kevin Cahillane, Michael Cahillane, Trevor Gannon.

Ref: Michael Murphy (Milltown/Castlemaine).

 

Final on Tues. 14^th July at J.P. O Sullivan Park: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 2-9; Milltown/Castlemaine ‘B’ 0-6.

A fitter Laune Rangers side overcame the challenge of a poor Milltown side in impressive style. Milltown had no answer to the speedy Rangers’ forwards. Two goals killed off any challenge by Milltown who trailed Rangers by 6 points at halftime. Rangers’ first goal came on the stroke of halftime when, in a frantic goal-mouth scramble, Jason Griffin made no mistake with his shot to the net. The second goal came after just eight minutes of the second half when a blocked clearance by Milltown’s halfback, George McKenna, fell to Trevor Gannon and he made no mistake from the edge of the small square.

Laune Rangers opened impressively, scoring four points from Joe Healy, Trevor Gannon and two from Jason Griffin before the visitors registered their first score, a point from a free by Derek Twiss. Laune Rangers’ forwards, especially the above mentioned trio, were a constant threat. Milltown scored just two more points in that opening half from Sean Counihan and a long range effort by Liam Mangan. Laune Rangers stepped up a gear and registered another two points from captain, Joe Healy, and a splendid effort from Jason Griffin to leave the home side 1-6 to 0-3 ahead at the interval.

Milltown opened the scoring with two points inside the first six minutes of the second half from Derek Twiss and John Lenihan and a comeback looked on the cards. It was short-lived, however, with Trevor Gannon’s goal and points from Terence Houlihan, Joe Healy and Trevor Gannon before the final whistle. Milltown had to wait 16 minutes to register their final score – a point from a free by Andrew Boyle. Rangers deserved their victory and had star performers in Danny Cahill, Karl Griffin, Timmy Moroney, John Moriarty, Joe Healy, Jason Griffin and Trevor Gannon.

Laune Rangers ‘B’: Liam Foley, John O Donnell, Danny Cahill, Joe Hayes, Terence Houlihan (0-1), Karl Griffin, Timmy Moroney, John F. O Brien, John Moriarty, Joe Healy (capt.) 0-3, Mikey Griffin, Gerry O Brien, Jason Griffin (1-3, 2 frees), Michael Cahillane (0-1), Trevor Gannon (1-1). Subs: Eoin Ferris for J. Moriarty, Pat McKenna for M. Griffin.

Ref: William O Shea (Keel).

 

Mid-Kerry O Sullivan Cup

Players from all the clubs that had played Co. Senior Football Championship the previous year were ineligible to play in that competition. It was played on a knock-out system.

 

Rd. 1 on Sat. 9^th May at Beaufort: Beaufort 2-13; Laune Rangers 0-6.

The game started well enough for Laune Rangers, as they sprinted into a 0-2 to 0-1 lead after nine minutes, courtesy of points by Joe Healy and Brian Gannon. Those scores sandwiched a point by Michael Kissane for Beaufort. However, from the 10^th minute onwards, things began to go downhill for the men in blue as Beaufort notched up six unanswered points before halftime. Ian O Shea was the chief supplier of those scores with three points, Aidan Cremin with two (1 free) and Gary McGrath. McGrath and Dan Breen lorded the midfield exchanges. Vincent O Donoghue closed the scoring of that half with a point in the 28^th minute to leave Beaufort ahead by 0-8 to 0-2 at the break.

Rangers were again first to score at the start of the second half, with a point from Mikey Griffin. But Beaufort were quick to respond with a string of points from Ian O Shea (2) and O Donoghue. The Beaufort forwards were finding themselves in acres of space and, with their backs dominant, victory was inevitable. To give Rangers credit, they did raise their game midway through the second half and had two points from Pat McKenna and Brian Gannon. That narrowed the margin to six points but again Beaufort moved up a gear. Kissane and O Shea scored 1-1 each. Brian Gannon concluded the scoring in the last minute.

For Rangers the game was a disappointment. Only Karl Griffin and Brendan Fitzgerald, in defence, and John Moriarty, at midfield, showed any kind of form. The forwards shot numerous wides over the hour.

Laune Rangers ‘B’: Tony Lyons, John O Donnell, Danny Cahill, Karl Griffin, Robert Moriarty, John F. O Brien, Brendan Fitzgerald, John Moriarty, Brian Gannon (0-3), Jason Griffin, Pat McKenna (0-1), Mikey Griffin (0-1), Joe Healy (0-1), Michael Cahillane, Derry O Sullivan. Subs: Eoin Ferris for J. Healy (inj.), Liam Foley for J. O Brien (inj.), Kevin Cahillane for D. O Sullivan.

Ref: Mike Hickey (Milltown/Castlemaine).

 

Co. U-21 Football Championship

Coach/Selector – James Sheehan. Selectors – Noel O Mahony, Jerry Coffey and Denis Cleary.

 

Rd. 1 at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 3-12; Shannon Rangers 0-12.

Rd. 2 on Sun. 27^th Sept. at Deerpark: Dr. Crokes 2-4; Laune Rangers 1-12.

That was a superb game of football with two very fit and talented teams on view. Dr. Crokes were very spirited but the Killorglin side’s sheer forward power proved the winning formula on the day.

Rangers opened the game impressively, scoring two points inside the first five minutes from Garrath Sheehan and a free by Mike Frank Russell. Sheehan had a wonderful game, setting up a number of scoring chances and causing all sorts of problems for the Crokes’ back-line. The Killarney side opened its scoring with a point from Edmund O Sullivan from a free, indeed O Sullivan scored 1-4 over the hour. His goal came when, after Tony Lyons had saved brilliantly, he ran onto the breaking ball to boot to the net. Crokes scored just one more point in that half, a free by O Sullivan. Rangers had three–quarters of the play in the opening half, scoring 1-4 between the 11^th and 21^st minutes. Points were scored by the impressive Mike Frank Russell (2), Pa O Sullivan (1) and Johnny Lynch, when his goal-bound shot was brilliantly deflected over by custodian, Kieran Cronin. The goal came in the 18^th minute when Johnny Lynch took a free from midfield that found Garrath Sheehan loose on the wing. He rounded his marker and found Pa O Sullivan in space, and he in turn linked with Trevor Gannon who blasted the ball to the net. Finan Moran had a great game at fullback for the Crokes and he marked Mike Frank Russell well, despite the fact that the Killorglin man succeeded in scoring 0-6. For the Rangers, Eoin Ferris had a great opening half and he was ably assisted by Joe Hayes, Brian Curran and John Sheehan. Halftime score – Laune Rangers 1-6; Dr. Crokes 1-2.

Rangers were first score in the second half when Pa O Sullivan converted a 20m free, following a foul on MF Russell. Then Crokes scored a great goal per Vince Cooper to reduce the lead to two points. They tried hard to penetrate the Rangers’ defence but were repulsed on numerous occasions. Brian Gannon stretched Rangers’ lead with a point in the 5^th minute. Edmund O Sullivan converted a long-range free in the 9^th minute and he scored his side’s last point in the 23^rd minute, again from a free. In contrast Rangers stepped up a gear with Russell scoring three points and a great effort from Pa O Sullivan to leave their side five points clear at the final whistle.

Rangers were best served by Eoin Ferris, Brian Curran, John Sheehan, Johnny Lynch, Trevor Gannon, Pa O Sullivan, Mike Frank Russell and the tireless Garrath Sheehan. There had been a minute’s silence in memory of Martin Beckett of Dr. Crokes, who had been killed in a car accident some weeks previously.

Laune Rangers: Tony Lyons, Joe Hayes, Eoin Ferris, John O Sullivan, Brian Curran, John Sheehan, Pa Sheehan, Johnny Lynch (0-1), John Moriarty, Trevor Gannon (1-1), Pa O Sullivan (0-3, 2 frees), Geoffrey O Mahony, Brian Gannon, Mike Frank Russell (0-6, 2 frees), Garrath Sheehan (0-1). Sub: Paul Costello for B. Gannon.

Ref: Denis Donovan (Desmonds).

 

Quarter-final on Sat. 5^th Dec. at Ballymac: St. Kieran’s 1-11; Laune Rangers 0-10.

St. Kieran’s qualified for the semi-final s of that year’s U-21 Co. Championship by virtue of a hard-earned but well-deserved victory over Laune Rangers. In truth, although there were four points between the teams at the end of the game, it was a much closer struggle than that. It was a great game of football, which had the two hundred or so supporters on their toes.

St. Kieran’s started the stronger and Eamonn John O Donoghue drove over a point after just 15 seconds. Pa O Sullivan levelled two minutes later but points by David Leen and Pa O Rahilly in the 3^rd and 4^th minutes saw St. Kieran’s lead by 0-4 to 0-1 after only 6 minutes play. With John Sheehan then to the fore for Laune Rangers and driving his team forward, Rangers took up the running and began to wrest control of the game from the host’s grasp. Pa O Sullivan scored a great point from play and when Johnny Lynch scored another from play to leave the minimum between the sides, Kieran’s knew they were in for a tough struggle. A Garrath Sheehan free out on the left, followed by a Pa O Sullivan point from play, put Laune Rangers ahead for the first time in the game. They added another point from an O Sullivan free and, at that stage, were threatening to run rampant before the break. However, a fine point by Paul Sugrue settled the Castleisland side and at halftime Laune Rangers led by 0-6 to 0-5.

St. Kieran’s started the second half in a positive manner, with a David Leen pointed free to level the game after six minutes. Two minutes later Garrath Sheehan pointed a free to send Laune Rangers to the front again, but it was to be the last time they led in the game. An opportunist goal by Paul Sugrue put St. Kieran’s in the lead. David Leen (free) and Tommy Mahony from play after 12 minutes put St. Kieran’s four points up (1-8 to 0-7). Pa O Sullivan’s fifth point of the game, from a free, gave the Rangers a life-line but St. Kieran’s struck back in commanding fashion. Paul Sugrue from play, a David Leen free and another point from Tommy Mahony from play clinched it with only four minutes left. Pa O Sullivan, with two points, one from play, closed the scoring for Rangers but the St. Kieran’s goal had knocked the stuffing out of them and they had to rely too much on the scoring prowess of Pa O Sullivan. Best for Laune Rangers were Tony Lyons, Eoin Ferris, Brian Curran, John Sheehan, Johnny Lynch, Pa O Sullivan and Garrath Sheehan. The loss of Kerry star, Mike Frank Russell, through injury had been a crippling blow to the team.

Laune Rangers: Tony Lyons, Pa Sheehan, Eoin Ferris, Paul Costello, Brian Curran, John Sheehan, Brendan Fitzgerald, Johnny Lynch (0-1), John Moriarty, Trevor Gannon, Pa O Sullivan (0-7), Geoffrey O Mahony, Brian Gannon, Cian Foley, Garrath Sheehan (0-2).

It is difficult to understand why Laune Rangers had to play 5 minor players (Paul Costello, Brian Curran, Trevor Gannon, Geoffrey O Mahony and Cian Foley) to constitute an U-21 team that had won the All-Ireland U-14 Championship seven years previously. Of that team Joe Hayes, Eoin O Connell and Alan O Sullivan were still playing with either the Laune Rangers ‘B’ or ‘C’ teams.

 

Duhallow U-21 Football Invitation Cup

 

Sun. 29^th Nov. at Kilbrean, Kanturk:

 

Co. Minor Football Championship

Trainer/selector – James Sheehan. Selectors – Jerry Coffey, Noel O Mahony and Denis Cleary.

 

Rd. 1 on Thurs. 2^nd July at Beaufort: Mid-Kerry 2-11; Laune Rangers 2-3.

That was a well-deserved victory for Mid-Kerry. The opening exchanges were tit-for-tat. Sean O Sullivan pointed a free and one from play for Mid-Kerry while Trevor Gannon pointed a 14m free for the Rangers. In the 6^th minute, however, Mid-Kerry were dealt a sucker punch, when a high ball into the fullback line broke and was quickly transferred to Cian Foley who, at pace, blazed it to the net. The Mid-Kerry lads were taken aback by this, as Rangers started the gain the upper hand, only for some wayward shooting to leave them down at vital stages. Eugene Courtney revived Mid-Kerry’s hopes with a fine point after 10 minutes. Mid-Kerry had to replace two players, Alfie Giles and Owen Flynn, because of injury. These changes disrupted Mid-Kerry for a while and the Rangers took full advantage of that confusion as Patrick Galvin strode forward and delivered a stunning shot past the keeper. Laune Rangers held the initiative for the remainder of the first half, mainly due to a solid display from Mike McGillycuddy at midfield. The first half scoring was concluded with two frees for either side, within the space of a minute. Firstly, Sean O Sullivan scored for Mid-Kerry and Trevor Gannon then notched his and Laune Rangers’ second point to leave the score 2-2 to 0-4 at the interval.

Immediately after the throw-in, Mid-Kerry had a goal, when Donie Hartnett drove a speculative high ball into the fullback line and Michael O Connor punched it to the net. Hartnett tapped over the equaliser soon after. Rangers were finding possession extremely difficult to come by, but they did manage a point from McGillycuddy in the 35^th minute. That, however, was their last score as Mid-Kerry took over. Sean O Sullivan and Michael O Connor added points in the 36^th minute. Then, in the 45^th minute, O Sullivan blasted the ball to the net to put his side in poll position. Then Kenneth O Connor and Derek Twiss added points to put Mid-Kerry ahead by 2-9 to 2-3. Sean O Sullivan closed the scoring with two delightful points.

Laune Rangers: William Byrne, Noel Lynch, Cian Evans, Fergus O Riordan, Brian Curran (capt.), Patrick Galvin (1-0), Patrick Crowley, Cian Foley (1-0), Geoffrey O Mahony, Eoin Clifford, Michael McGillycuddy (0-1), John Ahern, John Edward Murphy, Barry O Sullivan, Trevor Gannon (0-2). Subs: Jonathan Griffin for J. Ahern, Darragh Burns for J.E. Murphy, Robert Foley, Harry Bawden, Aidan O Connor, Andrew O Reilly, Robert Coffey, Brian Houlihan, Garret O Reilly, Tim Cronin, Paul Costello.

Mid-Kerry: Mike Moriarty (Beaufort), George McKenna (Mill/Castlemaine), Jeremiah Doyle (Beaufort), Kevin O Brien (do.), Michael Teahan (Cromane), Eugene Courtney (Glenbeigh) 0-1, Owen Flynn (Mill/Castlemaine) capt., Kenneth O Connor (Glenbeigh) 0-2, Alfie Giles (Mill/Castlemaine), Sean O Sullivan (Cromane) 1-6, Gavin Wrenn (Mill/Castlemaine), Terry O Sullivan (Keel), Donal Hartnett (Beaufort) 0-1, Derek Twiss (Mill/Castlemaine) 0-1, Michael O Connor (Keel) 1-0. Subs: James Nagle (Keel) for A. Giles, Sean Murphy (Beaufort) for O. Flynn, Thomas Walsh (Glenbeigh/Glencar), Paul O Sullivan (Cromane), James A. Murphy (Milltown/Castlemaine), Colm Kerins (do.), Padraig McCarthy (do.), Gary Murphy (do.), Denis O Connor (do.), Chris Breen (Glenbeigh/Glencar), Gary O Sullivan (do.), Rowan O Sullivan (do.), Trevor O Connor (Keel).

Ref: Aidan Mangan (Austin Stacks).

 

Co. Minor Football League

 

Rd. 2 on Sat. 21^st March at Milltown: Milltown/Castlemaine 1-7; Laune Rangers 2-12.

The age-old rivalry that existed in the Mid-Kerry derby between Laune Rangers and Milltown/Castlemaine that evoked passion, excitement and fire were sadly missing from that game. Laune Rangers dictated the pace of the game for long spells, with Milltown/Castlemaine content to play second fiddle and offering no great challenge until late in the second half when they came into the game.

Laune Rangers had the better of the exchanges in the first half and led by 1-8 to 1-2 at the interval. The Killorglin side dominated and Milltown scored its goal in the 30^th minute through Colm Kerins. Rangers had a star performer in corner-forward Trevor Gannon, who scored 2-4 for his side. His first goal was a splendid effort in the 27^th minute, while his second came late in the second half following a great solo-run.

Laune Rangers dominated the first 15 minutes of the second half and looked set to record a high score. The Milltown sideline switched fullback Padraig McCarthy to midfield to counteract the dominance of Eoin Clifford and Geoffrey O Mahony. That move worked for a while, with the home side scoring four points in the process. That golden period was short-lived with Killorglin coming back with a vengeance. The impressive Jonathan Griffin had two valuable points and was a constant threat to the Milltown defence with his lightening speed and keen positional sense.

On the day, Rangers fully deserved their victory and had outstanding displays from Fergus O Riordan, Noel Lynch, Jonathan Griffin, Trevor Gannon, Geoffrey O Mahony and Eoin Clifford.

Laune Rangers: Barry O Sullivan, Noel Lynch, Cian Evans, Fergus O Riordan, Brian Curran (capt.), Paul Costello, Patrick Galvin, Geoffrey O Mahony (0-2, 1 free), Eoin Clifford (0-1), Robert Foley, John Edmond Murphy, Jonathan Griffin (0-2), Aidan O Connor, Michael McGillycuddy (0-3), Trevor Gannon (2-4, 1 free). Sub: Darragh Burns for R. Foley.

Ref: Connie O Carroll (Legion).

 

Rd. 3 on Sat. 28^th March at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 2-9; Kilcummin 2-10.

Best on the day for Rangers were Barry O Sullivan in goals, Cian Evans and Brian Curran in defence, Cian Foley and Geoffrey O Mahony at midfield, with Eoin Clifford, Michael McGillycuddy and Trevor Gannon in attack.

Laune Rangers: Barry O Sullivan, Noel Lynch, Cian Evans, Fergus Clifford, Brian Curran (capt.), Paul Costello, Patrick Galvin, Cian Foley, Geoffrey O Mahony, Eoin Clifford, John Ahern, Jonathan Griffin, Aidan O Connor, Michael McGillycuddy, Trevor Gannon. Sub: Robert Foley for J. Griffin.

 

Rd. 5 on Fri. 10^th April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 2-6; Gneeveguilla 0-5.

 

Rd. 4 on Mon. 13^th April at Dingle: Dingle 1-4; Laune Rangers 0-9.

 

Quarter-final on Fri. 17^th April: Laune Rangers 2-7; Ballyduff 0-6.

Early goals by Geoffrey O Mahony and Cian Foley gave Rangers a 2-2 to 0-4 interval lead. Best for Rangers were Noel Lynch and Paul Costello in defence, Michael McGillycuddy and Geoffrey O Mahony at midfield and Cian Foley and Trevor Gannon in attack.

Laune Rangers: Harry Bawden, Noel Lynch, Cian Evans, Fergus O Riordan, Brian Curran (capt.), Paul Costello, Patrick Galvin, Michael McGillycuddy, Geoffrey O Mahony (1-0), Eoin Clifford (0-2), Barry O Sullivan (0-2), Darragh Burns (0-1), Aidan O Connor, Cian Foley (1-0), Trevor Gannon (0-2).

 

Semi-final on Fri. 1^st May at Milltown: Laune Rangers 1-7; Austin Stacks 0-7.

Laune Rangers: Harry Bawden, Noel Lynch, Cian Evans, Fergus O Riordan, Brian Curran (capt.), Paul Costello, Patrick Galvin, Michael McGillycuddy, Geoffrey O Mahony (0-1), Eoin Clifford, Barry O Sullivan (0-1), Darragh Burns (0-2), Aidan O Connor, Cian Foley, Trevor Gannon (1-3). Subs: John Ahern for A. O Connor, Brian Houlihan, Andrew O Reilly, Patrick Crowley and Robert Foley.

 

Final on Mon. 4^th May at Strand Road: Laune Rangers 0-8; Listowel Emmett’s 0-6.

There was a sensational and explosive start to that final 50 seconds after the referee had thrown in the ball. A fracas developed between Laune Rangers’ Paul Costello and Listowel’s Kerry minor star, Tadhg Kennelly, which resulted in both players being harshly sent to the line. A stern warning would probably have been sufficient and a booking to cool matters down. As it was, there was a needle element all through and the opening incident left a sour taste on the game. Laune Rangers were the better team in most sectors in a low-scoring final and if they had lost, which could have happened towards the finish, then they would only have themselves to blame. They kicked a succession of very bad wides in the second half when on top.

Cian Foley opened the scoring for the winners with a 3^rd minute point. Liam Keane cancelled that out one minute later. Eoin Clifford put the Killorglin boys back in front in the 10^th minute. Liam Kane again cancelled out the advantage in the 13^th minute. The play was fairly even at that stage, although Listowel were playing with the aid of the breeze. Cian Foley, with further points in the 19^th and 25^th minutes, extended Rangers’ lead (0-4 to 0-2). Mike Paul Kelliher got one back for the North-Kerry side before the break.

Cian Foley pointed Rangers two points clear by the 4^th minute of the second half. Listowel stormed into the game after Rangers had shot seven scoreable chances wide. Keane, fielding majestically at midfield, soloed on and pointed a truly wonderful score. The same player, combining with Kelliher, shot the equaliser in the 10^th minute (0-5 each). With play approaching the final quarter, Rangers upped the tempo to notch winning points by Geoffrey O Mahony (free) and a ‘45’. John Ahern added another, while Trevor Gannon blazed wide. That left the score at 0-8 to 0-5. Only one more score was made and that was in the 19^th minute when Keane, from a free, left it 0-8 to 0-6. Listowel did trouble Rangers as they went in pursuit of a winning goal. Kelliher worked his way onto the small square, but he was closed down by the Rangers’ defence and Harry Bawden tidied up with a clearance.

On the evening, Rangers were the better balanced team but they would have preferred to have won with Kennelly on the field. He was a big loss to Emmett’s but it must not be forgotten that Paul Costello, a very influential player for Rangers, was also sent off. Noel Lynch and Cian Evans was solid in defence for the Rangers. Michael McGillycuddy was outstanding at midfield ably assisted by Geoffrey O Mahony. In the attack, Cian Foley led the way.

Laune Rangers: Harry Bawden, Noel Lynch, Cian Evans, Fergus O Riordan, Brian Curran (capt.), Paul Costello, Patrick Galvin, Michael McGillycuddy, Geoffrey O Mahony (0-2, frees), Eoin Clifford (0-1), Barry O Sullivan, John Ahern (0-1), Darragh Burns, Cian Foley (0-4), Trevor Gannon. Subs: Aidan O Connor for D. Burns, Robert Coffey, Andrew O Reilly, Tom Crowley, Patrick Crowley, William Byrne, Colm Leahy and Tim Cronin.

Emmett’s: Raymond O Brien, Sean O Mahony, P.J. Kissane, Michael Flavin, Eoin Reen, Brendan Guiney, Brendan Kelly, Liam Keane (0-5, 1 free), Danny Moriarty, Carl Dillon, Tadhg Kennelly, Andreas Kirby, Ciaran Crohan, Edward McCarthy, Mikey Paul Kelliher (0-1, free). Sub: Paudie Murphy for A. Kirby.

Ref: Tom Lynch (Kerins O Rahillys).

Mid-Kerry Minor Football Championship

 

Rd. 1: Laune Rangers w/o; Cromane scr.

 

Semi-final on Sat. 7^th Nov. at Beaufort: Milltown/Castlemaine 1-10; Laune Rangers 1-6.

Con Dennehy reported on the game for Kerry’s Eye as follows: “The age-old rivalry between Laune Rangers and Milltown/Castlemaine was reignited at Beaufort on Saturday last when both sides met in the latter stages of the Mid-Kerry Minor Football Championship. Torrential rain and gale-force winds made playing conditions very poor, but both teams served up an entertaining game. The Killorglin side played with the assistance of the storm in the opening half. They played a short-passing game in that half, with this tactic failing to see them hold a commanding lead at the interval. A feature of this half was the outstanding display from the Milltown backline as they withstood a constant bombardment from the speedy Rangers’ forwards.

Rangers dominated the first half but failed to score from long range, never using the advantage of the strong wind. They scored six points in the opening half, with five coming from frees. Outstanding midfielder, Michael McGillycuddy, dominated midfield for Rangers scoring three points, two from frees and a brilliant long-range effort towards the end of the half. Ace free-taker Trevor Gannon had three pointed frees for Rangers in this half. Milltown had just five scoring chances in that half. After seven minutes Derek Twiss found Andrew Flynn in space and, despite the attention of the advancing Rangers’ goalkeeper, William Byrne, who parried his shot, Flynn punched the ball into the empty net for what was the key score of the game. Milltown’s other scores in this opening half came from Gavin Wrenn from a free, a brilliant effort from James Coava after 17 minutes and a well-taken point by Andrew Flynn in the 26^th minute. At halftime both sides were level: Milltown/Castlemaine 1-3; Laune Rangers 0-6.

Milltown completely dominated the second half with Laune Rangers scoring a single goal. The goal came in the 27^th minute when a quick free by Eoin Clifford found John Ahern, who made no mistake from close range. This was Rangers’ only scoring opportunity in the half while their opponents scored seven excellent points. A magnificent contribution of four points, three from frees, by the talented Gavin Wrenn laid the foundation for Milltown’s second half performance. Milltown had further points from Colin Kerins and two from Derek Twiss to run out convincing winners.

Laune Rangers’ most impressive player, midfielder Michael McGillycuddy, was dismissed 12 minutes into the half for two bookable offences and his loss was a severe blow to Rangers. In the end, the better side won. This was Rangers’ third defeat-in-a-row at the hands of Milltown. They had good players in Cian Evans, Darragh Burns, Patrick Galvin, Michael McGillycuddy, Eoin Clifford, John Edmond Murphy and Trevor Gannon. Both teams and officials were to be complimented on playing in such adverse weather conditions.

Laune Rangers: William Byrne, Noel Lynch, Cian Evans, Fergus O Riordan, Darragh Burns, Paul Costello, Patrick Galvin, Michael McGillycuddy (0-3, 2 frees), Brian Curran, Eoin Clifford, John Ahern (1-0), Geoffrey O Mahony, John Edmond Murphy, Cian Foley, Trevor Gannon (0-3, frees). Subs: Bob Foley for Noel Lynch. Michael McGillycuddy was sent off.

Ref: Michael McCarthy (Cromane).

 

Mid-Kerry also organised a Mid-Kerry Minor Football League but Laune Rangers were excluded from participating.

 

Minor Football Tournament/Challenge Game

 

Tournament on Sat. 21^st/Sun. 22^nd March at Castleisland: St. Kieran’s beat Laune Rangers.

‘B’ Final: Laune Rangers beat Desmonds.

Laune Rangers (panel): Brian Curran (capt.), Andrew O Reilly, Fergus O Riordan, Cian Foley, Michael McGillycuddy, Barry O Sullivan, Paul Costello, Colm Leahy, Terence Houlihan, Garrett O Reilly, Noel Lynch, John Edmond Murphy, Eoin Clifford, Gerry O Brien, Jonathan Griffin, Patrick Galvin, Geoffrey O Mahony, Tim Cronin, John Ahern.

Co. U-16 Football Championship

‘A’ Team coach – Pat O Riordan. Selectors – John Griffin (Caragh Lake), operated in the beginning of the year), Jerome O Regan and Peter Lyons. The team was sponsored by The Fishery.

 

Rd. 1 on Mon. 22nd June at Killorglin: Laune Rangers defeated Ballyduff.

Rd. 2 on Wed. ^29th  June and Killorglin: Laune Rangers defeated Austin Stacks.

Rd. 3 on ^{Mon. 6th July} June at Killorglin: Laune Rangers drew with Kerins O Rahillys.

Rd. 4 on ^{Mon. 13th} July at Kilcummin: Kilcummin Laune Rangers.

Rd. 5 on ^{Mon. 20th} July at Killarney: Dr. Crokes Laune Rangers.

Semi-final on Mon. 3^rd Aug: Laune Rangers 2-11; Kilcummin 3-4.

 

Final on Mon. 17^th Aug. at Fitzgerald Stadium: Austin Stacks 1-9; Laune Rangers 1-6.

Laune Rangers dominated the first half of that final and points by Ross Sheehan, Barry O Sullivan and William Byrne saw them lead by 0-3 to 0-0 after ten minutes. However, gradually Stacks settled and Andrew McAllen opened their account with a 15^th minute point. They dominated the rest of the half and points by Kevin Walsh, Steve Enright, McAllen and two from Mickey Collins saw them lead by 0-6 to 0-3 coming up to halftime. Laune Rangers’ Barry O Sullivan had the last score of the half, a point, to leave Stacks with a two-point cushion facing into the second half.

Four minutes after the resumption Barry O Sullivan again pointed to leave the minimum between the sides. But Stacks regained the initiative with points from Andrew McAllen and a goal by Kevin Walsh to leave them ahead by 1-8 to 0-5 entering the last quarter. A Colin O Connor point and a goal by Vinny Griffin brought Rangers right back into the game, but Stacks were resilient and a Mikey Collins point seven minutes from time proved to be the last score of a thrilling last quarter.

It was a good, sporting final with excellent football played by both sides. Rangers were best served by Barry O Sullivan, Noel Lynch, Colin O Connor, James Hayes and Ross Sheehan.

Laune Rangers: Colin Mangan, Eoin Joy, Pa Crowley, Conor Falvey, Darren O Riordan, Noel Lynch, Jonathan McCarthy, Thomas McGillycuddy, Barry O Sullivan (0-3), Colin O Connor (0-1), Vinny Griffin (1-0), Andrew O Regan, James Hayes, William Byrne (0-1), Ross Sheehan (0-1). Subs: Damien Harmon, Seamus Foley, Tim O Regan, Gerard O Sullivan, Aidan Lynch, James Clifford, Dermot Houlihan, David Coffey, Francis Russell, Sean Kirschoffer, Michael Doyle, Mark Healy, Cathal Foley, Muiris Crowley, Paul McKenna.

Ref: Tom McCarthy (Desmonds).

 

Mid-Kerry U-16 Football Championship

 

Semi-final on Sat. 14^th Nov: Laune Rangers defeated Glenbeigh/Glencar.

Final on Sun. 6^th Dec. at J.P. O Sullivan Park: Laune Rangers 0-12; Beaufort 0-4.

That game was played as a curtain-raiser to the Mid-Kerry Senior Football final.

Mid-Kerry U-16 Football League

The ‘A’ panel (first 13 players) consisted of Colin Mangan, Pa Crowley, Conor Falvey, Darren O Riordan, Noel Lynch, Ross Sheehan, Barry O Sullivan, Thomas McGillycuddy, Vinny Griffin, Michael Doyle, William Byrne, James Hayes and Mark Healy.

There were two groups:

Cup – Laune Rangers ‘A’, Milltown/Castlemaine and Beaufort.

Shield – Laune Rangers ‘B’, Keel, Glenbeigh/Glencar and Cromane.

 

Rd. 1 on Wed. 1^st April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 0-7; Cromane 7-9.

Laune Rangers ‘B’: Jason McCormack, Muiris Crowley, Conor Murphy, James Clifford, Gerard O Sullivan, Niall Looney, Francis Russell, Colin O Connor, Sean Kirschoffer, Niall O Mahony, Cathal Foley, Tim O Regan, Paul McKenna. Subs: David O Sullivan for F. Russell, Dermot Houlihan for C. Murphy, Denny Russell for S. Kirschoffer.

At Beaufort: Beaufort 0-9; Laune Rangers ‘A’ 0-9.

Laune Rangers ‘A’: Colin Mangan, Eoin Joy, Pa Crowley, Conor Falvey, Darren O Riordan, Noel Lynch, Jonathan McCarthy, Barry O Sullivan, Thomas McGillycuddy, Andrew O Regan, Vincent Griffin, Michael Doyle, Ross Sheehan, William Byrne, James Hayes. Subs: Mark Healy for J. McCarthy, Damien Harmon for R. Sheehan, Seamie Foley.

 

Rd. 2 on Wed. 15^th April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘A’ 2-6; Milltown/Castlemaine 0-7.

Laune Rangers ‘A’: Colin Mangan, Eoin Joy, Pa Crowley, Conor Falvey, Darren O Riordan, Noel Lynch, Ross Sheehan, Barry O Sullivan, Thomas McGillycuddy, Andrew O Regan, Vincent Griffin, Seamie Foley, Jonathan McCarthy, William Byrne, James Hayes. Subs: Damien Harmon for J. McCarthy, Michael Doyle for T. McGillycuddy, Mark Healy for S. Foley. Ross Sheehan was sent off for rough play.

at Glenbeigh: Glenbeigh/Glencar ‘A’ 3-10; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 0-6.

 

Cup Final on Mon. 18^th May at Milltown: Laune Rangers 1-14; Beaufort 1-8.

Despite having to adjust to a 13-a-side format, and having been defeated by one point by Austin Stacks in the Tralee District Board semi-final on the Saturday, the team showed how resilient it was by turning in a fine performance in that final. As was mentioned by Noel Spillane, Chairman of Mid-Kerry Bord na nOg, when he presented the Pat O Shea sponsored trophy to captain, Noel Lynch, Laune Rangers played with craft.

The game was played in ideal conditions. Laune Rangers led by 1-5 to 1-4 at halftime. The second half showed the difference between the teams. Beaufort failed to score for 20 minutes after the resumption, while Laune Rangers, despite squandering numerous chances, continued consistently to notch up nine points throughout the second half. Barry O Sullivan, following on the tradition of his brother, Pa, gave a fine example of free-taking from the hand. He had a personal tally of 0-9. Thomas McGillycuddy at midfield turned in a strong performance in the second half. In the full-forward line, Vincent Griffin created movement and space, which the Beaufort defence found hard to manage, and had a personal tally of 1-2. Once again Noel Lynch turned in an outstanding performance both in defence and attack and was well supported by Conor Falvey and Jonathan McCarthy.

Michael Doyle, who had been omitted because of the 13-a-side format, made a major difference when introduced as wing-forward in the second half. A point from Andrew O Regan in the 50^th minute and one from Ross Sheehan five minutes later put the game beyond Beaufort’s grasp.

Laune Rangers: Colin Mangan, Pa Crowley, Conor Falvey, Eoin Joy, Darren O Riordan, Jonathan Griffin, Noel Lynch, Thomas McGillycuddy, Andrew O Regan, Barry O Sullivan, Seamie Foley, Ross Sheehan, Vincent Griffin. Sub: Michael Doyle (played).

Brendan Twiss (Milltown/Castlemaine).

 

Tralee District Board U-16A Championship

 

Rd. 1 on Wed. 1^st April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers Na Gaeil.

Rd. 2 on Wed. 8^th April at Connolly Park: Austin Stacks Laune Rangers.

Rd. 3 on Mon. 13^th April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers Kerins O Rahillys.

Rd. 4 on Mon. 20^th April at Ardfert: Ardfert Laune Rangers.

Rd. 5 on Mon. 27^th April at Boherbue: John Mitchels drew with Laune Rangers.

 

Semi-final on Sat. 9^th May: Austin Stacks defeated Laune Rangers by one point.

 

Tralee District Board U-16B Championship

Coach – Colm Conway.

 

Rd. 1 on Fri. 17^th April in Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ defeated Churchill ‘A’.

Rd. 2 on Fri. 24^th April at Blennerville: St. Pat’s Laune Rangers ‘B’.

Rd. 3 on Sun. 3^rd May at Cloon: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 2-8; Na Gaeil ‘A’ 2-6.

That was the first competitive game in the new grounds in Cloon. Accurate free-taking by Paul McKenna and two good points from Damien Harmon and Francis Russell in the first half kept them in the game at halftime, only fours points in arrears. Outstanding defensive play by Dermot Houlihan, who began to set up a number of attacks as the game wore on, was a feature of the game. Shane Clifford, in goals, Sean Kirschoffer and Gerard O Sullivan stood out in the defence, Damien Harmon and Niall O Mahony played well in the attack. Tim O Regan had a number of misses at full-forward but clinched victory with a last minute goal.

 

Semi-final on Sun. 10^th May: Ballymac ‘A’ 2-10; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 0-5.

 

Co. U-16 Inter-Divisional Board Football Championship

 Trainer – Colm Joy (Cromane).

Semi-final on Sun. 18^th Oct. at J.P. O Sullivan Park: Mid-Kerry 0-10; South-Kerry 2-5.

Mid-Kerry: William Byrne (Laune Rangers), Pa Doyle (Beaufort), Jimmy Foley (Glenbeigh/Glencar), Conor Falvey (Laune Rangers), James Nagle (Keel), Paudie McCarthy (Milltown/Castlemaine), Eoin Walsh (Cromane), Gavin Wrenn (Milltown/Castlemaine) 0-2, Noel Lynch (Laune Rangers), Vinny Griffin (do.), Kevin O Brien (Beaufort) 0-4, Andrew Flynn (Milltown/Castlemaine) 0-2, Paudie McCarthy (Cromane), Barry O Sullivan (Laune Rangers) 0-2, Thomas McGillycuddy (do.).

 

Co. U-15 Football Championship

Coach/Selector – Pat O Riordan.; Selectors – Pat Pigott, Peter Lyons and Jerome O Regan. The team was sponsored by the Fishery.

 

Rd. 1 on Mon. 8th Sept. at J.P. O Sullivan Park: Laune Rangers defeated Kerins O Rahillys.

Rd. 2 on Sat. 13^th Sept. at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 2-20; Waterville/Dromid 1-4.

Semi-final on Wed. 22^nd Sept. at Listowel: Laune Rangers defeated Tarbert.

 

Final on Sat. 3^rd Oct. at Blennerville: Laune Rangers 3-7; An Ghaeltacht 1-7.

In that spectacle, Laune Rangers’ ability to get goals at vital stages proved to be crucial. With the St. Pat’s pitch in excellent condition, both sides produced a rousing game, which contained some excellent free flowing and entertaining football. The first quarter was even, with Colin O Connor, Seamie Foley and Tim O Regan getting early Rangers’ points and Conall Ó Crualaíoch replying for the Westerners. Heading towards the interval, Gaeltacht had sneaked into as 0-7 to 0-3 lead, but Rangers were given a morale boost before halftime when Tim O Regan netted to leave the score at 0-7 to 1-3 in favour of An Ghaeltacht.

After the restart, Colin O Connor struck for Rangers’ second goal, but were it not for the staunch defending by the winners’ defence, in which Aidan Lynch was outstanding, Gaeltacht could have been in command towards the end. As it was, with three minutes left and Rangers leading by 2-7 to 1-7, Rangers’ substitute Francis Russell sealed victory for them with their third goal of the game.

On their return home, the players were greeted with great excitement and were treated to a meal in the Fishery.

Laune Rangers: Shane Clifford, Alan Murphy, Aidan Lynch, Seán Kirschoffer, Muiris Crowley, Darren O Riordan, Dermot Houlihan, Jonathan McCarthy, Mark Healy, Michael Doyle, Colin O Connor, Ross Sheehan, Seamus Foley, Tim O Regan, James Hayes. Subs: Francis Russell, David Coffey, Cathal Foley, Niall Looney, Denis Russell, Paul O Connor, Niall O Mahony, Carl McCarthy, David O Sullivan, Caoilte Gallagher.

 

U-15 Football Challenge Game

 

Sun. 8^th Feb. at Killorglin: Laune Rangers Kildimo, Limerick.

 

Co. U-14 Football Championship Div. 1

Trainer/coach – Pat Pigott. Selectors – Patsy Joy and Jerry Foley. The ‘A’ team was sponsored by Champs Super Valu. Training commenced on Sat. 14^th Feb.

 

Rd. 2 on Mon. 6th April at Killarney: Dr. Crokes lost to Laune Rangers.

Rd. 3 on Wed. 15^th April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers lost to Ballyduff by four points.

Rd. 5 on Mon. 27th April at Connolly Park: Austin Stacks Laune Rangers.

Rd. 1 on Tues. 5th May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 2-5; Kerins O Rahillys 3-12.

Rd. 4 on Mon. 11th May at Castleisland: Laune Rangers defeated Desmonds.

Semi-final on Mon. 25^th May at Milltown: Kerins O Rahillys 1-14; Laune Rangers 2-6.

O Rahillys proved too strong for Rangers in that semi-final. The Tralee side got off to the better start and led by 0-5 to 0-1 before Rangers’ first goal by David O Sullivan brought them back into it. However, O Rahillys added further points and led by 0-8 to 1-2 at halftime. In the second half, O Rahillys dominated and led by 10 points when Rangers staged a mini-comeback with a goal by Colin O Connor and three further points.

 

Co. U-14 Football Championship Div. 5

Div. 5 consisted of Fossa, Ballydonoghue, Moyvane, Glenflesk, Cromane, Duagh and Laune Rangers ‘B’. The ‘B’ team was sponsored by O Grady’s Londis. Trainers/Coaches – Jerry Coffey and Michael Ahern.

 

Rd. 1 on Mon. 30^th March at Fossa: Fossa 4-10; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 1-4.

Laune Rangers ‘B’ (panel): Anthony Twiss, Jonathan Brown, Michael Daly, Tomás Curran, Eoin McMahon, Michael Quirke, Eoin O Mahony, Aidan O Sullivan, Andrew Tattershall, Gary Cahillane, Brendan Ahern, Jerry Foley, Killian Cotter-Shahadi, Davin Foley, Shane Ahern, Colin O Sullivan, Luke Dunlea.

 

^{Rd. 2 on Sat. 11th April} at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ lost to Ballydonoghue.

Rd. 3 on Mon. 13^th April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 1-2; Cromane 6-13.

Rd. 4 on Mon. 20^th April at Moyvane: Moyvane defeated Laune Rangers ‘B’.

Rd. 5 on Mon. 4th May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ lost to Duagh.

Rd. 6 on Mon. 11th May at Glenflesk: Glenflesk defeated Laune Rangers ‘B’.

 

Co. Féile Peile na nOg (U-14 Football)

 

Rd. 1 on Sat. 14^th March at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 3-8; An Ghaeltcht 2-6.

Quarter-final on Sat. 21^st March at Killorglin: Laune Rangers defeated Kerins O Rahillys.

 

Semi-final on Sat. 28^th March at Ballymac: Desmonds 4-8; Laune Rangers 2-11.

That was a super game of football between two totally committed sides. Rangers got off to a dream start, with David O Sullivan pointing and corner-forward Maurice Foley getting the game’s first goal inside the first two minutes. Desmonds gradually settled into the game, but a combination of bad luck and poor finishing saw them scoreless until the 22^nd minute, when Joseph Lyons registered their first point. They finished the half stronger and points by Lyons and Conor Ryan, plus goals from Donal Kelliher and Lyons saw them lead at the interval by 2-3 to 1-3, Rangers other points coming from O Sullivan and Colin O Connor.

On resumption, Peter Slattery (Rangers) and Brian Shanahan (Desmonds) swapped points before Lyons scored his second goal to widen the gap to six points. Rangers, to their credit, didn’t give up and three points from Colin O Connor and one from Aidan Lynch reduced the deficit to just two points, heading into the last quarter. Niall O Mahony and Colin O Connor exchanged points with Desmonds’ Lyons and Barry O Neill and then O Connor pointed once again to leave just the bare minimum between the sides with five minutes left. In a pulsating finish, substitute Aidan O Callaghan proved to be Castleisland’s hero, scoring a 59^th minute goal and then toe-poking the ball to the net for his team’s all-important fourth goal. Davin Foley struck for a late Rangers’ goal, but the clock ran out on them and Desmonds held on for a great and deserved victory.

Laune Rangers: Michael O Leary, Daryl Corkery, Alan Murphy, Jody O Riordan, Jeremiah Coffey, Aidan Lynch (0-1), Karl McCarthy, Shane Clifford, Niall O Mahony (0-1), Peter Slattery (0-1), Colin O Connor (0-6), Paul O Connor, Maurice Foley (1-0), David O Sullivan (0-2), Davin Foley (1-0).

Ref: Paudie Breen (Legion).

 

Mid-Kerry U-14 Football Championship

 

Preliminary Rd. on 21^st Sept. at Milltown: Milltown/Castlemaine 0-8; Laune Rangers 2-16.

Laune Rangers: Daryl Corkery, Jody O Riordan, Alan Murphy, Jerry Coffey, Paul O Connor, Aidan Lynch, Karl McCarthy, Shane Clifford, Niall O Mahony, David O Sullivan, Colin O Connor, Tomás Curran, Peter Slattery, Damien O Neill, John Houlihan. Subs: Michael O Leary, Barry Woods, Gavin West, Maurice Foley, Aidan O Sullivan, Davin Foley, Trevor West, Eoin McMahon, Colin O Sullivan.

 

Semi-final on Sat. 24^th Oct. at Beaufort: Beaufort 2-3; Laune Rangers 0-5.

Laune Rangers: Gavin West, Daryl Corkery, Alan Murphy, Jerry Coffey, Paul O Connor, Aidan Lynch, Karl McCarthy, Niall O Mahony, Shane Clifford, Peter Slattery, David O Sullivan, Maurice Foley, Damien O Neill, Colin O Connor, John Houlihan. Subs: Michael O Leary, Barry Woods, Jody O Riordan, Aidan O Sullivan, Davin Foley, Trevor West, Tomás Curran, Eoin McMahon, Colin O Sullivan.

Ref: Brendan Twiss (Milltown/Castlemaine).

 

Mid-Kerry U-14 Shield

Laune Rangers ‘B’ were grouped with Glenbeigh/Glencar, Cromane and Keel.

 

Rd. 1: Cromane defeated Laune Rangers ‘B’.

Rd. 2: Laune Rangers ‘B’ w/o; Glenbeigh/Glencar scr.

Rd. 3: Keel w/o; Laune Rangers ‘B’ scr.

 

Tralee District Board U-14 Football Championship Div. 1

 

Rd. 1 on Fri. 12^th June at Ardfert: Ardfert drew with Laune Rangers ‘A’.

Despite having built up a seven-point lead well into the second half, the team left the initiative slip.

Rd. 2 on Fri. 19^th June at Cloon: Laune Rangers Kerins O Rahillys.

Rd. 3 on Fri. 26th June at Killorglin: Laune Rangers lost to Austin Stacks.

Rd. 4 on Fri. 10^th July at Killeen: Na Gaeil lost to Laune Rangers.

Semi-final on Thurs. 6^th Aug. at Boherbue: Austin Stacks 3-9; Laune Rangers 2-8.

 

Tralee District Board U-14 Football Championship Div. 2

 

Rd. 1 on Fri. 12^th June at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ w/o; St. Pat’s, Blennerville scr.

Rd. 2 on Fri. 19^th June at Cloon: Laune Rangers ‘B’ Ballymac.

Rd. 3 on Fri. 26^th June at Tralee: John Mitchels drew with Laune Rangers ‘B’.

Rd. 4 on Fri. 3^rd July at Churchill: Churchill Laune Rangers ‘B’.

 

Co. U-14 Football Inter-District Board Championship

Coach/Trainer – John Cahillane (Keel). Selector – Pat Pigott (Laune Rangers).

 

Semi-final on Fri. 31^st July at Cromane: Mid-Kerry 3-10; South-Kerry 1-11.

South-Kerry had held on grimly until two minutes from fulltime when Mid-Kerry struck for two killer goals. The first came when Colin O Connor flicked the ball to the inrushing Fergus Murphy, who made no mistake from the edge of the square. A minute later, Colin O Connor himself found space and he cracked home the third and decisive goal.

Mid-Kerry: Shane Clifford (Laune Rangers), Timmy O Shea (Beaufort), Aidan Lynch (Laune Rangers), Alan Murphy (do.), Dwayne Griffin (Keel), David Flaherty (do.), Colin McKenna (Milltown/Castlemaine), Donncha Walsh (Cromane) 0-2, Bart Murphy (Keel), David Murphy (do.), Martin Breen (Beaufort) 0-1, Colin O Connor (Laune Rangers) 1-3, Liam Sheehan (Keel) 0-2, Gary Sheehan (Glenbeigh/Glencar) 1-0, Fergus Murphy (Milltown/Castlemaine) 1-2. Subs: Paul O Connor (Laune Rangers) for A. Murphy, John Doona (Beaufort) for D. Murphy, Sean Flahive (Keel) for G. Sheehan, David O Sullivan (Laune Rangers) for B. Murphy.

 

Final on Sun. 6^th Sept. at Fitzgerald Stadium: Mid-Kerry 1-10; West-Kerry 1-6.

Mid-Kerry: Shane Clifford (capt.), Alan Murphy, Aidan Lynch, Timmy O Shea, Dwayne Griffin, Michael Flaherty, Colin McKenna, Donncha Walsh, Bart Murphy, David Murphy, Martin Breen (0-1), Sean Flahive, Liam Sheehan (1-6), David O Sullivan (0-2), Fergus Murphy (0-1). Subs: Gary Sheehan for F. Murphy, Marcus O Connor (Beaufort) for A. Murphy.

 

U-14 Football Challenge Game

 

Sat. 12^th/Sun. 13^th June at Cloon Pitch: Laune Rangers defeated Tinryland, Carlow.

The players were hosted by the parents of the Laune Rangers players and they ate in the Fishery Restaurant. It was decided to play two games, one on Saturday and one on Sunday. On Sat. 12^th, Tinryland defeated an under-strength Laune Rangers’ team and there were whispers amongst the visiting team that Laune Rangers were not all they were cracked up to be. Patsy Joy reassembled his players and, on Sun. 13^th, they gave an exhibition of football that left the Carlow mentors speechless. Mike Hassett, Liam Hassett, Billy O Shea and Mike Frank Russell presented the visitors with a memorial plaque on behalf of the club.

 

Co. U-13 Football Championship

Coaches – Pat Pigott, Jerry Houlihan and Michael Ahern. Rangers were grouped with Ballyduff, Kerins O Rahillys and Austin Stacks.

 

Rd. 1 on Sat. 11^th July at Cloon: Laune Rangers Austin Stacks.

Rd. 3 on Sun. 26^th July at Ballyduff: Ballyduff heavily defeated Laune Rangers

 

U-13 Football Challenge Game

 

Sun. 8^th Feb. at Killorglin: Laune Rangers Kildimo, Limerick

 

Co. U-12 Football Championship Div. 1

Group 1 consisted of Laune Rangers, Dr. Crokes, Beaufort, Dingle, Desmonds and John Mitchels. The team was sponsored by Fexco. Coaches – Patsy Joy, John Quirke and Jerry Houlihan. Training commenced on Sun. 8^th Feb.

 

Rd. 1 on Sun. 26^th April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 4-7; Dr. Crokes 2-3.

Rd. 2 on Sat. 2^nd May at Castleisland: Desmonds defeated Laune Rangers.

Rangers faced the final whistle leading by one point but Desmonds succeeded in scoring a goal in the last minute to win.

Rd. 3 on Sun. 10^th May in Killorglin: Laune Rangers 0-5; Beaufort 2-3.

Rd. 4 on Sun. 17^th May in Killorglin: Dingle 1-20 Laune Rangers 3-9.

Rd. 5 on Sun. 24^th May in Killorglin: Laune Rangers beat John Mitchels.

 

Based on the results of the preliminary rounds, Laune Rangers were put into section ‘B’ for the second series of games. Laune Rangers were grouped with Austin Stacks, Desmonds, Kerins O Rahillys, Ballyduff and Ballymac.

 

Rd. 1 on Sun. 14^th June at Cloon: Laune Rangers lost to Ballyduff by one point.

Rd. 2 on Sun. 21^st June at Caherina: Kerins O Rahillys 3-17; Laune Rangers 3-3.

Rd. 3 on Sun. 28^th June at Connolly Park: Austin Stacks Laune Rangers.

Rd. 4 on Sun. 12^th July: Ballymac 4-18; Laune Rangers 2-7.

 

Co. U-12 Football Championship Group G

The team was sponsored by Flynn’s Bus-Hire. Coaches – James Riordan and Eamonn Carey.

 

Rd. 1 on Fri. 24^th April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 0-1; Scartaglin ‘A’ 4-7.

Rd. 2 on Sun. 3^rd May at Keel: Keel ‘A’ defeated Laune Rangers ‘B’.

Rd. 3 on Sun. 17th May at Foilmore: St. Michael’s/Foilmore defeated Laune Rangers ‘B’.

 

Based on the results of the preliminary rounds, Laune Rangers ‘B’ were put into section H with Brosna, Knocknagoshel, Asdee and Duagh.

 

Rd. 1 on Sun. 21^st June at Cloon: Laune Rangers ‘B’ lost to Duagh.

Rd. 2 on Sun. 28^th June at Asdee: Asdee Laune Rangers ‘B’.

Rd. 3 at Cloon: Laune Rangers ‘B’ Knocknagoshel.

Rd. 4 on Tues. 14^th July at Brosna: Brosna Laune Rangers ‘B’.

 

Mid-Kerry U-12 Football Championship

 

Rd. 1 on Thurs. 27^th Aug. at J.P. O Sullivan Park: Laune Rangers 2-11; Beaufort 1-5.

Laune Rangers: Vincent Costello, John Foley, Edward Looney, Laurence O Connor, Kieran Crowley, Gary Cahillane, Luke Dunlea, Eoin O Mahony, Alan Tobin, Sean O Riordan, Dáire Clifford, Darragh O Shea, Gary Flynn, Eamonn Carey, Brendan O Shea. Subs: Michael Quirke, Sean Joy, Danny Joy, Simon Brosnan, John Sheehan, Brendan O Sullivan, Niall Dennehy, JJ Foley, Stephen O Donoghue, Rodi Healy.

Ref: Michael O Shea (Cromane).

 

Fri. 4^th Sept. at Milltown: Milltown/Castlemaine Laune Rangers.

 

Semi-final: Laune Rangers drew with Keel.

Semi-final replay on Sun. 13^th Sept. at Beaufort: Laune Rangers beat Keel.

 

Final on Sat. 19^th Sept. at Beaufort: Milltown/Castlemaine 1-5; Laune Rangers 1-4.

Laune Rangers: Vincent Costello, Brendan O Shea, Edward Looney, Rody Healy, John Foley, Ciarán Crowley, Gary Cahillane, Alan Tobin, Eoin O Mahony, Dáire Clifford, Darragh O Shea, Luke Dunlea, Eamonn Carey, Seán O Riordan, Gary Flynn. Sub: Michael Quirke (played in the second half).

 

Tralee District Board U-12 Football Championship

 

Rd. 1 on Sun. 13th Sept. at Caherina: Kerins O Rahillys 2-10; Laune Rangers 0-8.

Rd. 2 on Sun. 20^th Sept. in Killorglin: Laune Rangers 3-7; Austin Stacks 2-9.

Rd. 3 on Sun. 27^th Sept. at Killeen: Na Gaeil lost heavily to Laune Rangers.

Rd. 4 on Sun. 4^th Oct. in Ballymac: Ballymac 4-7; Laune Rangers 1-3.

Rd. 5 on Sun. 11th Oct. at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 1-9; Churchill 2-15.

 

Tralee District Board U-12B Football Championship

Rd. 1 on Sun. 13th Sept. at Caherina: Kerins O Rahillys ‘B’ 3-7; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 2-0.

Rd. 2 on Sun. 20th Sept. at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 2-3; Austin Stacks ‘B’ 4-7.

 

U-12 Football Challenge Game

 

Sun. 19^th April: Laune Rangers defeated Fossa.

Wed. 22^nd April at Killarney: Dr. Crokes ‘B’ Laune Rangers ‘B’.

 

Co. Community Games Football (U-10)

Coach – Pat O Shea (Sunhill).

 

Semi-final in Ballyduff: Killorglin defeated Kenmare.

Final in Ballyduff: Strand Road defeated Killorglin.

Killorglin (panel): Daniel Clifford (Laharn), David O Sullivan (Glencuttane), Eamonn Looney (Sunhill), Tadhg Iarla Curran (Groyne), Padraig Murphy (Tullig), John Knightley (Iveragh Park), Patrick Knightley (do.), Shane McSweeney (do.), Timmy Lynch (Tullig), Marty Lynch (do.), Tony Lynch (do.), Jamie Cunningham, Colin O Dwyer (Iveragh Road), Daniel Horgan (Keelcoulacht), Kevin Flynn (Tullig), Stephen Healy (Tullig), Niall O Conor (Iveragh Park), Luke O Shea (Dunmaniheen), Chris Morris (Tullig), Jason McCarthy (Coolbane).

 

U-10 Football Parish League

Coaches – Iraneus Looney, Willie Fitzgerald, Pat O Brien and Donal Pigott.

 

Sun. 1^st Nov. at Cloon:

‘B’ Final: Colin O Dwyer defeated James Flynn.

Colin O Dwyer (capt.), David Clifford, Jason McCarthy, Christopher O Riordan, Colm O Shea, David O Sullivan, Caoilean Soffer.

James Flynn (capt.), Stephen Healy, Eamonn Looney, Danny Sheehan, Pa and John Knightley, Mikie O Sullivan and Tadhg Curran.

‘A’ Final: David Pigott defeated Pascal O Brien.

David Pigott (capt.), Pat Joy, Audie Dunlea, Dan Horgan, Alan O Connor, Kevin Flynn, Jason Clifford, Seamus Joy, Marty Lynch, Timmy Brosnan.

Pascal O Brien (capt.), Rory O Shea, Shane McSweeney, Luke O Shea, Nicholas O Connor, Peter Crowley, Brian Prendiville, Timmy Lynch and Padraig Moynihan.

Pat Pigott, Chairman of Laune Rangers Bord na nOg, presented the Seamus Murphy Cup to the winning captain of the ‘A’ final and reminded all present of the contribution of Seamus Murphy to that grade during his life and advised the players to treasure the trophy which was given in his name.

 

Schools/Colleges’ Football

 

Mid-Kerry Primary Schools’ Football

Scoil Mhuire ‘A’ Football Panel: Barry Woods (capt.), Gary O Donoghue, Fergal Tyther, Aidan O Sullivan, Dáire Clifford, Ailin Tobin, Brendan O Shea, Eamonn Carey, Michael O Leary, Gary Cahillane, Jonathan Carey, Eoin O Mahony, Edward Looney, Brendan O Sullivan (Rua), Ultan Foley, Colm Heffernan, Brian Hayes, Brendan O Sullivan, Kevin O Riordan, Billy Brown. Coach – Declan Falvey.

Scoil Mhuire ‘B’ Panel: Paul O Connor (capt.), Kieran Crowley, Kevin Walker, Colin O Sullivan, Davin Foley, Jody O Riordan, Darragh O Shea, Kevin Sheehan, Michael Daly, Luke Dunlea, Aidan Joy, John Foley, Danny Joy, Shane Crowley, David Fleming, Tommy Moriarty, Shane Moriarty, Padraig Foley, Niall Dennehy, Thaddeus Soffer.

 

Fri. 12^th Oct. at Killorglin: Cromane 5-8; Douglas 1-6.

 

Mid-Kerry Mini-7’s

The bigger the school the more it was penalised in terms of age. Scoil Mhuire lost both the boys’ and girls’ semi-finals.

Scoil Mhuire Boys: Ailin Tobin, Kevin Walker, Gary Cahillane, Jonathan Carey, Dáire Clifford, Edward Looney, Aidan O Sullivan, Darragh O Shea, Kieran Crowley, Eoghan O Mahony.

Scoil Mhuire Girls: Amy Bennett, Sarah Woods, Sheila Cronin, Mary Cronin, Siobhán McSweeney, Katie Swords, Clare Coyle, Ciara O Grady, Helena O Regan, Jade O Connor.

 

Co. Cumann na mBunscol Girls’ Div. 1 Football Championship

Scoil Mhuire retained the Div. 1 title, defeating Scoil Mhic Easmuinn, Trá Lí, in the final.

Scoil Mhuire Panel: Karen McGillycuddy (capt.), Laura Cahillane, Amy Bennett, Helena O Regan, Sheila Cronin, Rachel Ahern, Caroline O Connor, Ciara O Grady, Nicola O Connor, Katie Swords (goals), Claire Coyle, Siobhan McSweeney, Jade O Connor, Sharon Ahern, Taragh Evans, Mary Cronin, Sandra West, Jennifer O Connor. Coach – Jerome Conway.

Dunloe Cup

Final on Wed. 13^th May at Strand Rd: Intermediate School 2-11; Tarbert Comprehensive 1-10.

Best for the Intermediate School were Geoffrey O Mahony at fullback, Michael McGillycuddy at midfield, Noel Lynch, Sean Murphy and Barry O Sullivan in attack. Michael McGillycuddy was the man-of-the-match.

Intermediate School: Michael Moriarty (Beaufort), Martin Breen (do.), Geoffrey O Mahony (Laune Rangers), Robert Doyle (Beaufort), Eoghan Walsh (Cromane), Jeremiah Doyle (Beaufort), Harry Bawden (Laune Rangers), Michael McGillycuddy (do.), Cian Evans (do.), Shane Myers (Fossa), Noel Lynch (Laune Rangers), Terry O Sullivan (Keel), Jerry Kelliher, Barry O Sullivan (Laune Rangers) capt., Sean Murphy. Subs: John Ahern (Laune Rangers), Pa Doyle (Beaufort), Paul Costello (Laune Rangers), Jimmy Foley, Darren O Riordan (Laune Rangers), Vincent Griffin (do.), Darragh Burns (do.), Pa Crowley (do.), Mark Terry, Eoin Darmody (Listry).

 

Russell Cup

Final: St. Brendan’s defeated Intermediate School

 

1^st Year Cup

Final: Intermediate School defeated Tralee CBS.

 

All-Ireland Post-Primary Senior Schools’ Girls’ Championship

Final on Sat. 4^th April at Nenagh: Intermediate School 4-10; Eureka Secondary School, Kells 0-6.

Intermediate School: Geraldine Doona, Siobhán Ahern, Cora Conway, Susan Joy, Gráinne O Malley, Deirdre Dennehy, Jenny Johnston, Jackie Ryan, Bernie Breen, Helena Falvey, Virginia Doona, Geraldine Moriarty, Patrice Dennehy, Paula O Leary, Ann Marie O Donoghue. Subs: Sinead O Brien, Caroline Breen, Catherine Foley, Stephanie Corkery, Kathleen O Neill, Marlene O Sullivan, Sheila Griffin, Martha O Shea, Jessica O Sullivan, Nuala Hoare, Christine Johnston, Sandra Joy.

Laune Rangers did not have a girls’ team at the time and some Killorglin girls (bold print) played with Beaufort.

 

Sigerson Cup (Inter-Universities Football)

 

Rd. 1 on Wed. 4^th Feb. at Austin Stack Park, Tralee: ITT 0-15; GMIT 1-7.

ITT: Ger Cremin (Gneeveguilla), Kenneth Leen (Austin Stacks), Barry O Shea (Kerins O Rahillys), Mick Galvin (Clare), Kieran O Shea (Na Gaeil), Seamus Moynihan (Glenflesk), Fergus O Connor (John Mitchels), Michael Cloherty (Galway) capt., William Kirby (Austin Stacks), Padraig Joyce (Galway) 0-4, 1 pen, Pa O Sullivan (Laune Rangers) 0-7, 5 frees, Mike Frank Russell (Laune Rangers) 0-1, S. Cloherty (Galway) 0-1, Jim McGuinness (Donegal), M. Liddane (Clare). Subs: M. McGowran (Carlow) for F. O Connor, Jack Ferriter (Dingle) 0-1 for M. Liddane, Michael Donnellan (Galway) 0-1 for S. Cloherty.

 

Semi-final on Sat. 7^th March in Strand Road: ITT 2-12; Athlone IT 0-6.

ITT: Ger Cremin, Kenneth Leen, Barry O Shea, Mick Galvin, Mark McGowran, Seamus Moynihan, Damien Hendy (Kildare), Michael Cloherty, William Kirby, Padraig Joyce (0-2), Pa O Sullivan (0-2, frees), Jim McGuinness (1-2), Jack Ferriter (1-4, 2 frees), Michael Donnellan, Mike Frank Russell (0-1). Subs: jack Dennehy (0-1) for P. O Sullivan, Genie Farrell for P. Joyce, Kieran O Shea for B. O Shea.

 

Final on Sun. 8^th March at Austin Stack Park: ITT 0-10; Jordanstown 0-8.

ITT: Ger Cremin, Kenneth Leen, Barry O Shea, Michael Galvin, Mark McGowran, Seamus Moynihan, Damien Hendy, Michael Cloherty (capt.), William Kirby (0-1), Pa O Sullivan (0-2, 1 free), Michael Donnellan, Jim McGuinness (0-2), Jack Ferriter (0-3, 1 free), Padraig Joyce (0-1), Mike Frank Russell. Subs: Jack Dennehy for MF Russell, Genie Farrell (0-1) for M. Cloherty.

 

Munster U-16 Football Championship

 

Final on Sun. 13^th Dec. at Drumcollogher: Cork County 1-9; Kerry South 1-5.

The game was played in the mud and Kerry South was beaten by a last-minute goal in extra-time.

Kerry South: Eoin Tangney (Kenmare), Eoin Lawlor (Gneeveguilla), Kevin O Brien (Beaufort), Paudie McCarthy (Milltown/Castlemaine), Eanna Kavanagh (Dr. Crokes), Brendan Teahan (Sneem), James Nagle (Keel), Sean O Connor (St. Michael’s/Foilmore), Seamus O Sullivan (Waterville), Niall O Driscoll (St. Mary’s) 0-1, James Fitzgerald (do.) 1-0, D.J. Fleming (Kilcummin) 0-1, Gavin Wrenn (Milltown/Castlemaine), Barry O Sullivan (Laune Rangers) 0-3, frees, Donald O Sullivan (Fossa). Subs used: Kieran Herlihy (Spa), Andrew Flynn (Milltown/Castlemaine), Noel Lynch (Laune Rangers), Colm O Connor (Dromid), Dermot Foley (Firies).

Ref: Haulie Ryan (Limerick).

 

Munster/All-Ireland U-21 Football Championship

Trainer – Jack O Connor (Dromid); Coach – Johnny Culloty (Legion); Selectors – Johnny Mulvihill (Moyvane), Denis Desmond (Rathmore) and Dan O Sullivan (Currow).

 

Semi-final on Fri. 27^th March at Tralee: Kerry 0-10; Clare 0-7.

Kerry: David Moloney (Dr. Crokes), Kenneth Leen (Austin Stacks, Tom O Sullivan (Rathmore), Martin Beckett (Dr. Crokes), Eamonn Fitzmaurice (Finuge), Tomás Ó Sé (An Ghaeltacht), John Sheehan (Laune Rangers), Tommy Griffin (Dingle), Michael Burke (Milltown/Castlemaine) 0-1, Noel Kennelly (Emmett’s), Pa O Sullivan (Laune Rangers) 0-4, 3 frees, Bernard O Connor (St. Mary’s), Ian Twiss (Milltown/Castlemaine) 0-4, 3 frees, Aodán Mac Gearailt (An Ghaeltacht) 0-1, Brian Scanlon (Emmett’s). Subs: Riobard Mac Gearailt (An Ghaeltacht) for M. Burke, Jack Dennehy (Currow) for A. Mac Gearailt, Sean Hegarty (Legion), Austin Constable (St. Mary’s), Michael D. Cahill (Rathmore), Mícheál O Shea (Castlegregory), Enda Galvin (Finuge).

 

Final on Sat. 11^th April at Austin Stack Park: Kerry 3-10; Tipperary 1-11.

Kerry had thundered into the game from the throw-in. Eamonn Fitzmaurice won possession and passed to Pa O Sullivan whose probing shot broke down off the crossbar and the eager-beaver Ian Twiss was on the spot to hammer the ball to the net. In the second minute, Kerry again attacked and Liam Brosnan found Pa O Sullivan with a neat ball. The Laune Rangers player soloed his way through the centre, unhindered, and then cracked a tremendous drive into the right corner of the net for as good a goal as one could have hoped to see. Right through the game, Aodán Mac Gearailt, Pa O Sullivan and Liam Brosnan combined to very telling effect, with O Sullivan showing his class throughout.

Kerry: David Moloney, Michael McCarthy (Kilcummin), Tom O Sullivan, Kenneth Leen, John Sheehan, Tomás Ó Sé, Martin Beckett, Tommy Griffin (0-1), Eamonn Fitzmaurice, Aodan Mac Gearailt (0-1), Pa O Sullivan (1-4), Liam Brosnan (0-1), Ian Twiss (1-1), Noel Kennelly (1-1), Brian Scanlon (capt.). Subs: Michael Burke for T. Griffin, Jack Dennehy (0-1) for I. Twiss.

 

All-Ireland Semi-final on Sat. 2^nd May at Parnell Park: Kerry 1-14; Armagh 0-9.

Mike Frank Russell, returning from injury, made an appearance in the 52^nd minute.

Kerry: David Moloney, Michael McCarthy, Tom O Sullivan, Kenneth Leen, John Sheehan, Tomás Ó Sé, Martin Beckett, Tommy Griffin, Eamonn Fitzmaurice, Aodán Mac Gearailt (0-5, 3 frees), Pa O Sullivan (0-4,  2 frees), Liam Brosnan (0-3), Jack Dennehy, Noel Kennelly (1-1), Brian Scanlon. Subs: Ian Twiss (0-1) for J. Dennehy, Mike Frank Russell for B. Scanlon, Michael Burke for T. Griffin.

 

Final on Sat. 9^th May at Limerick: Kerry 2-8; Laois 0-11.

From the throw-in, Kerry were quickly into their stride and it was the irrepressible Mike Frank Russell who produced a piece of sheer football sorcery to blue-print Kerry’s first goal. Aodán Mac Gearailt found Russell with a neat pass, the Laune Rangers man was confronted by two defenders, but he somehow managed to shimmy past them before punting the ball across the face of the goal and there was team captain Brian Scanlon to rocket the ball to the net. In that game, Mike Frank Russell announced to all and sundry that he was back to his best form after injury. Men like Tom O Sullivan, Kenneth Leen, Tomás Ó Sé and John Sheehan stood out like beacons in defence. Pa O Sullivan enhanced his prospects of further promotion with 3 points, 2 from frees.

Kerry: David Moloney, Mike McCarthy, Tom O Sullivan, Kenneth Leen, John Sheehan, Tomás Ó Sé, Martin Beckett, Tommy Griffin, Eamonn Fitzmaurice (1-0), Aodán Mac Gearailt (0-2, frees), Pa O Sullivan (0-3, 2 frees), Liam Brosnan (0-2), Mike Francis Russell (0-1, free), Noel Kennelly, Brian Scanlon (capt.) 1-0. Subs: Ian Twiss for B. Scanlon, Mike Burke for M. Beckett, Jack Dennehy, Sean Hegarty, Bernard O Connor, Austin Constable, Riobard Mac Gearailt, Michael D. Cahill, Enda Galvin.

Munster/All-Ireland Senior Football Championship

Trainer/Coach – Páidí Ó Sé; Selectors – Frank O Leary (St. Mary’s), Sean Counihan (Legion), Paul Lucey (Austin Stacks) and Bernie O Callaghan.

 

Semi-final on Sun. 5^th July at Killarney: Kerry 1-14; Cork 1-11.

Mike Frank Russell once again showed that he was a rare talent. His anticipation was uncanny and the manner in which he picked off his scores was a joy to behold.

Kerry: Declan O Keeffe, Tomás Ó Sé, Barry O Shea, Stephen Stack, Seamus Moynihan (capt.), Liam O Flaherty, Eamonn Breen, Dara Ó Sé, Donal Daly, Pa Laide, Dara Ó Cinnéide (0-1), Denis O Dwyer, Michael Francis Russell (0-4), John Crowley (0-5), Maurice Fitzgerald (1-4, 3 fres). Subs: Eamonn Fitzmaurice for T. Ó Sé, Liam Brosnan for P. Laide, Noel Kennelly for D. Ó Cinnéide, Peter O Leary, Killian Burns, John Brennan, Cormac Kennedy, Jack Ferriter, Mark Moynihan..

 

Final on Sun. 2^nd July at Thurles: Tipperay 1-10; Kerry 0-17.

Kerry: Declan O Keeffe, Seamus Moynihan (capt.), Barry O Shea, Stephen Stack, Eamon Fitzmaurice, Liam O Flaherty, Eamonn Breen, Dara Ó Sé, Donal Daly (0-1), Pa Laide (0-2), Dara Ó Cinnéide (0-2), Denis O Dwyer, Mike Francis Russell (0-1), John Crowley (0-1), Maurice Fitzgerald (0-10, 7 frees, one 45). Sub: Noel Kennelly for D. O Dwyer.

 

All-Ireland Semi-final on Sun. 30^th Aug. at Croke Park: Kildare 0-13; Kerry 1-9.

Kerry: Declan O Keeffe, Stephen Stack, Eamonn Fitzmaurice, Barry O Shea, Seamus Moynihan (capt.), Liam O Flaherty, Eamonn Breen, Dara Ó Sé, Donal Daly (0-1), Pa Laide, Dara Ó Cinnéide (0-2), William Kirby, Mike Frank Russell (0-1), John Crowley (1-1), Maurice Fitzgerald (0-4, 3 frees). Subs: Liam Brosnan for W. Kirby, Denis O Dwyer for P. Laide, Peter O Leary, John Brennan, Killian Burns, Tomás Ó Sé, Noel Kennelly, Cormac Kennedy, Jack Ferriter.

 

NFL 1997/’98

 

Sun. 15^th Feb. at Killarney: Kerry 1-6; Tyrone 1-9.

Kerry: Declan O Keeffe, Morgan O Shea, Barry O Shea, Stephen Stack, Seamus Moynihan (capt.), Liam O Flaherty, Eamonn Breen, Dara Ó Sé (0-1), William Kirby, Pa Laide, Donal Daly, Denis O Dwyer (0-2), Mike Frank Russell (1-0), John Crowley (0-1), Dara Ó Cinnéide (0-1). Subs: Pa O Sullivan (0-1, free) for W. Kirby, Kieran Scanlon for M. O Shea, Brian Clarke for J. Crowley.

 

Sun. 1^st March at Clones: Monaghan 0-10; Kerry 2-9.

Kerry: Declan O Keeffe, Stephen Stack, Barry O Shea, Killian Burns, Seamus Moynihan, Liam O Flaherty, Eamonn Breen, Dara Ó Sé, William Kirby (0-1), Pa Laide (0-1, free), Donal Daly (1-1), John Crowley (1-1), Dara Ó Cinnéide (0-2, 1 free), John Brennan, Mike Frank Russell (0-2). Subs: Sean Burke for K. Burns, Pa O Sullivan (0-1) for J. Brennan, Liam Brosnan for P. Laide.

 

McGrath Cup (Football)

 

Rd. 1 on Sat. 17^th Jan. at Abbeyfeale: Limerick 0-4; Kerry 1-9.

Kerry: Peter O Leary, Morgan O Shea, Barry O Shea, Stephen Stack, Seamus Moynihan (capt.), Sean Burke, Eamonn Breen, Dara Ó Sé, William Kirby, Ruairí O Rahilly, Donal Daly, Denis O Dwyer (0-1), Mike Frank Russell (0-6), John Crowley (0-1), Dara Ó Cinnéide. Subs: John Brennan (0-1) for R. O Rahilly, Fintan Ashe for W. Kirby, Liam Brosnan for D. O Dwyer, Brian Clarke (1-0) for D. Ó Cinnéide, Kieran Scanlon for E. Breen.

 

Semi-final on Sun. 22^nd Feb. at Killarney: Kerry 1-8; Clare 1-17.

Kerry: Peter O Leary, Chris Drummond, Sean Burke, Killian Burns, Kieran Scanlon, Eamonn Fitzmaurice, Eamonn Breen, Donal Daly, Fintan Ashe, Pa Laide (0-2), Denis O Dwyer (0-1), John Crowley (0-1), Liam Brosnan, John Brennan (1-2), Brian Clarke (0-1). Subs: Dara Ó Sé for F. Ashe, Mike Frank Russell (0-1) for L. Brosnan, Ruairí O Rahilly for D. O Dwyer, William Kirby for P. Laide.

 

Railway Cup (Football)

 

Semi-final on Sun. 25^th Jan. in Killarney: Munster 0-12; Leinster 2-8.

Munster: Declan O Keeffe (Kerry), Barry Keating (Clare), Barry O Shea (Kerry), Stephen Stack (do.), Seamus Moynihan (do.) capt. 0-1, Liam O Flaherty (do.), Eamonn Breen (do.), Dara Ó Sé (do.) 0-1, Fachtna Collins (Cork), Joe Kavanagh (do.) 0-6, 4 frees, Francis McInerney (Clare), Derry Foley (Tipperary), Mike Francis Russell (Kerry) 0-1, Pat Hegarty (Cork), Martin Daly (Clare) 0-2, frees. Subs: John Crowley (Kerry) 0-1 for P. Hegarty, William Kirby for F. Collins.

 

NFL (1998/’99) Div. 2A

 

Rd. 1 on Sun. 1^st Nov. at Hyde Park, Roscommon: Roscommon 0-11; Kerry 0-10.

Kerry: Declan O Keeffe, Eamonn Fitzmaurice (0-1), Barry O Shea, Killian Burns, Seamus Moynihan, Mike Hassett, Tomás Ó Sé, Dara Ó Sé, Donal Daly, John McGlynn (0-1), Liam Hassett (0-2), Dara Ó Cinnéide (0-2, 1 free), Mike Frank Russell (0-2), John Crowley, Denis O Dwyer. Subs: Pa Laide (0-1) for D. O Dwyer, William Kirby for J. McGlynn, Jerry Murphy (0-1) for D. Ó Cinnéide.

 

Rd. 3 on Sun. 29^th Nov. at Casement Park, Belfast: Antrim 0-8; Kerry 1-14.

Kerry: Declan O Keeffe, Michael McCarthy, Barry O Shea, Killian Burns, Seamus Moynihan (0-1), Mike Hassett, Tomás Ó Sé, Dara Ó Sé (0-2), William Kirby, John McGlynn (0-2), Liam Hassett (0-1), Donal Daly, Jerry Murphy (0-3), John Crowley (capt.) 1-2, Dara Ó Cinnéide (0-3, 2 frees). Subs: Maurice Fitzgerald for L. Hassett, Jack Ferriter for J. Crowley, Noel Kennelly for D. Ó Sé.

Ref: Jim Curran (Tyrone).

 

Rd. 4 on Sun. 6^th Dec. at Killarney: Kerry 1-12; Westmeath 1-7.

Kerry: Declan O Keeffe, Mike McCarthy, Barry O Shea, Killian Burns, Eamonn Breen (0-1), Mike Hassett, Tomás Ó Sé, Dara Ó Sé, William Kirby, John McGlynn (0-1), Dara Ó Cinnéide (0-4, 2 frees, one 45), Donal Daly (0-1), Jerry Murphy (0-2), John Crowley (1-1), Maurice Fitzgerald (0-2). Sub: Liam Hassett for J. Murphy, Peter O Leary, Noel Kennelly, Eamonn Fitzmaurice, Jack Ferriter, James O Shea, John Sheehan, Pa O Sullivan.

 

Inter-firm Football 1997/’98

 

Final on Sat. 28^th Feb. at J.P. O Sullivan Park, Killorglin: Klinge/Fujisawa 0-9; Digital (Galway) 0-9.

Klinge/Fuzisawa: Liam Foley, Sean O Donoghue, James Brosnan (capt.), Patie Griffin (0-1), Aidan Roche, Pa Dennehy, Diarmuid Lynch, Pierce Prendiville, Gerard O Connor, Mark Cooper, Pat McKenna (0-2), Denis Dennehy, Brian O Sullivan (0-1, free), Pádraig Barton, Gerard Murphy (0-5, 4 frees). Sub: Michael O Reilly for A. Roche.

 

Final replay on Sun. 29^th March at Wolfe Tone’s, Shannon: Digital 2-9; Klinge/Fujisawa 1-6.

The odds before the game had swung significantly in favour of Digital, for the very good reason that Gerard Murphy and Pierce Prendiville were ruled out because of injury. The non-stop rain which made the pitch heavy and the ball very slippery was another factor that militated against the Killorglin side. The physically stronger Digital side was much better suited to those conditions.

Klinge/Fujisawa: Liam Foley, Sean O Donoghue, James Brosnan, Patie Griffin, Mark Cooper, Aidan Roche, Diarmuid Lynch, Gerard O Connor, Denis Dennehy (0-3), Padraig Barton, Pa Dennehy (0-1), Timmy O Sullivan (Dromtarriffe) 1-0, Brian O Sullivan, Pat McKenna, Michael O Reilly (0-2).

 

Administration/Miscellany

 

Joe McDonagh, An Ghaillimh, was Uachtarán CLG.

 

Jerome Conway was re-appointed as Rúnaí of An Coiste Stiúrtha Náisiúnta Féile Peile na nOg, which was again held in Donegal. Bob Honahan (Corcaigh) was Chairman and the other members of the committee were Jim Whelan, Aidan Brennan, Fintan Tierney and Pat Daly (Páirc an Chrócaigh).

 

Munster Convention was held in Killarney on 6^th March. The following officers were elected: Chairman – Sean Kelly, Ciarraí, Secretary – Donie Nealon, Tiobrad Árainn, and Treasurer – Declan Moylan, Luimneach.

 

The Munster Club League was formed, having received the imprimatur of the Munster Council. The inaugural meeting was held in the Castle Hotel, Macroom, in February. Jerome Conway was appointed as Joint-Chairman with Jim Cronin (Cork). Other officers were Secretary – Liam Hodnett (St. Finbarr’s)), Treasurer – Pat Healy (Kerins O Rahilly’s), PRO – Finbarr McCarthy (St. Nick’s).

 

Kerry Co. Convention was held in the Gleneagle Hotel, Killarney on Sun. 18^th Jan. The Following officers were elected: Chairman – Sean Walsh (Moyvane) 127 votes, Liam Cotter 112 (Dave Geaney had received 72 votes and had been eliminated), Vice-Chairman – Jerome Conway 147 votes (John Kelly, Spa, 86), Secretary – Tony O Keeffe, Treasurers – James Coffey and John McMahon, Youth Officer – Michael McCarthy, Development Officer – Patrick O Sullivan (143 votes), Jeremiah Keating Renard (101 votes), PRO – Willie O Connor (166 votes), Mike Carroll (48 votes) and Sean Barry (29 votes), Delegates to Munster Council – Eamonn O Sullivan and Teddy O Sullivan, Oifigeach na Gaeilge/Cultúra – Derry Murphy, Delegate to Central Council – Gerald McKenna.

 

Jerome Conway was appointed as Chairman of the G.A.C. in Kerry. He was appointed as Chairman of Coiste Iomána Chiarraí, with John White (Ballyduff) as Rúnaí. He was also appointed as liaison officer with the County Senior and U-21 Hurling teams. He was also re-elected as Vice-Chairman of Cumann na mBunscol Chiarraí. James Coffey was appointed onto the Finance Sub-Committee. Bart Moriarty was appointed as Munster Referees’ Co-ordinator. Pat Lynch was appointed onto the GPC. Paul Lucey, former Laune Rangers player and recently Austin Stacks member, was appointed onto the Co. Senior Football Selection Committee.

 

The AGM of Bord na nOg Chiarraí was held in Austin Stack Park Pavilion on 14^th Jan. The following officers were elected: President – Sylvie Mason, Chairman – John Foley, Vice-Chairmen – Johnny Brosnan and Michael Ahern, Secretary – John Lenihan, Football Secretary – Peggy Horan, Hurling Fixtures Secretary – Dick McElligott, PRO – Mike Carroll, Treasurers – Patsy Cremin and Der Flynn, Registrar – Liam Ó Rócháin, Hurling Officer – Timmy Weir, Referees’ Secretary – Denis O Donovan, GPC – Michael Ahern, Mike Houlihan, Denis O Donovan, Kieran Coffey and John Cahillane.

 

The AGM of the Mid-Kerry Board was held in the Community Hall, Keel on Fri. 9^th Jan. The following officers were elected: President – Murt Kelly (Beaufort), Chairman – John Dowling (Keel), Vice-Chairman – John Twiss (Milltown/Castlemaine), Secretary – Mike Healy (Cromane), Treasurers – Michael Healy, George Evans (Keel) and Dan Carey (Cromane), PRO – John Paul McCarthy (Cromane). Laune Rangers were represented by James Coffey, Donal Pigott and John Clifford. Before the election of officers, James Coffey was asked to take the Chairmanship but he declined. Milltown/Castlemaine’s motion that the Board should organise an U-21 competition was passed.

 

Beaufort had the responsibility of organising Mid-Kerry Bord na nOg in 1998. Chairman – Noel Spillane; Secretary – Mary Jo Coffey.

 

Laune Rangers Bord na nOg AGM was held in the Fishery on 26^th Nov. 1997. The Chairman, James Ferris, opened proceedings and welcomed the large attendance. The outgoing Secretary, Sean Moriarty, was unable to be present and, in his absence, Michael Ahern was asked to perform secretarial duties. Michael Ahern suggested that, in the absence of the outgoing secretary and to avoid any confusion, the minutes of the previous year’s AGM and all or any subsequent committee meetings be read, that he himself would give a brief resumé of the year’s underage affairs and this would take the place of a Secretary’s Report. That approach was agreed and adopted, the minutes were read over and Michael Ahern outlined the previous year’s activities (The outline was given at the end of 1997). The Chairman, James Ferris, rose to address the meeting. He indicated that he was not seeking re-election and gave a wide-ranging address. He felt that underage football and associated matters had fared well since the establishment of Bord na nOg. He thanked all his fellow officers down the years for the assistance they had given him. He thanked the sponsors and the officers of the Senior Board. He once again summarised the circumstances surrounding our exclusion from the Féile competition but stated that, at the end of the day, Bord na nOg and Laune Rangers had handled a bad situation in a fine way. He asked that in the immediate future, the club and Bord na nOg should strengthen its efforts in putting Ladies Football on a solid footing within the club.

The meeting was loud in its praise for the manner in which James Ferris had chaired Bord na nOg and many expressed the hope that, after a break, he might return in some capacity or go on to involvement in the Senior Board. He then vacated the chair and the following officers were elected: Chairman – Pat Pigott; Secretary/PRO – Michael Ahern.

On taking the chair, Pat Pigott said he was grateful for the opportunity to become Chairman of such a successful and well run Bord na nOg. He thanked the outgoing officers. He stated that he had been with underage football in Laune Rangers for over 12 years. The changes which had taken place and which he would like to record were as follows:

a)      A noticeable increase in the numbers playing underage football.

b)     The increased number of competitions in which Bord na nOg participated.

c)      The efficient way in which the sponsorship of underage teams was then being organised.

d)     The greater involvement of parents.

e)      An increase in the number of mentors and coaches available to each team.

f)       The re-establishment of Ladies Football.

He stated that during his time as Chairman he would be conscious that the club must address itself to a number of things. These were as follows:

i)               See to it that the numbers of young people playing our games would be maintained within the club, as the club could not afford to lose any player.

ii)              High level of discipline both on and off the field would have to be maintained by Bord na nOg within the club.

iii)            Bord na nOg and the club would have to look at ways and means to deal with underage players who committed offences either on or off the field.

iv)             That Bord na nOg would have to appreciate the difficulties then being created for adult mentors in the GAA, given the highlighting of Child Abuse.

v)              That Bord na nOg should hold regular meetings to sort out problems as they arose than allowing problems to fester unresolved.

vi)             That there should be one contact anchor-man with each team.

vii)           Mentors should, at all times, portray a united front both within the club towards their players and indeed towards the outside world.

viii)          That all of the people involved should appreciate the fact that they were involved for the good of the youngsters and that there was nobody in it for self-gain or advancement.

He stated that at the outset, each team would receive 3 footballs and a set of jerseys. Each group of mentors would have to take care of that equipment, see after the laundry etc. Each team would receive a copy of the fixtures for each competition prior to the commencement of that competition, insofar as same was possible. He appealed to all present that any problems between officers themselves, mentors, members and/or players would, within the Bord na nOg structure of Laune Rangers, be sorted out at Bord na nOg meetings only and he appealed to people not to become involved in discussions on those matters in public places, where onlookers might not have the goodwill of the club at heart and could exploit disagreements.

He raised the following matters for general discussion:

1)     Is Tralee District League looking after our needs? The meeting recorded general satisfaction with the Tralee District League and indicated that the club should continue participating therein.

2)     What were the advantages and disadvantages of playing in Mid-Kerry? There was general agreement that our ‘A’ teams should continue to play in Mid-Kerry but that our ‘B’ teams were quite correct in staying out of the so-called ‘B’ Leagues, as they were not genuinely ‘B’ Leagues. It was pointed out that, for example, if our U-14B team had participated in the Mid-Kerry ‘B’ League, they would come up against Beaufort ‘A’ team in the final and Beaufort ‘A’ team had contested the Div. 1 Final. The officers were urged to seek a change in the Mid-Kerry ‘B’ League with a view to getting better competition for our ‘B’ teams in Mid-Kerry.

3)     Sponsorship. The officers were urged to continue with their approach to sponsorship, which appeared to be working well.

4)     Bus Travel. After a short discussion, it was decided that Bord na nOg should seek quotations from those transporting our teams to make sure that the level of charges were reasonable and those should be obtained before any particular operator was hired.

5)     Scor na nOg Committee. The Chairman stated that Mary Clifford, Muingaphouca, had done Trojan work for Scor na nOg and Scor in general within the club almost unaided. It was agreed that a Scor na nOg Committee should be formed to assist her in that work.

The Chairman wished all the underage teams and their mentors the best of luck for the coming year. The meeting then concluded.

 

On Fri. 13^th March, the U-14 players of the previous year were presented with their medals and team photographs at a function in the Fishery. The U-12 players had not won any trophies but Joseph Crowley presented each player with a team photograph. The U-12 player-of-the-year was Vincent Costello and Patsy Joy sponsored a Perpetual Trophy to mark the event.

 

Laune Rangers’ Bord na nOg decided to organise a once-off draw in order to help defray the cost of juvenile transport. Lines cost £1 each.

First Draw on Sun. 13^th June: Ned Courtney, Steelroe (£100), Jenny Johnston, Dungeel (£50), James O Neill, Cromane Lower (£20), James Flynn, Upper Tullig (£10), John Laurence McGillycuddy, Ardnaknockeen (£10), Bridie West, Bansha (£10).

 

Laune Rangers Ladies Football Committee was set up in April with the following officers: Chairman – James Ferris; Vice-Chairperson – Mary Griffin; Secretary – Anne Lynch.

 

13 Laune Rangers’ club meetings were held during the year. The following attended the meetings: John Clifford (13), Tommy Woods (12), Ger Counihan (12), James Ferris (11), Johnny Galvin (11), James Coffey (10), Michael Foley (10), John Griffin (10), Maurice Corkery (9), Jim Galvin (8), Bart Moriarty (6), Liam Shannon (5), Michael Ahern (5), Jerry Coffey (5), Pat Pigott (4), Michael O Shea (3), James Sheehan (3), Patsy Joy (1), Matty Cahill (1), Ann Lynch (1). The following matters were transacted/decided:

Thurs. 8^th Jan. in the JP O Sullivan Park – The meeting decided to support the two motions on the Clár at the Mid-Kerry Convention, 1) that the Mid-Kerry Board organise an U-21 Football Championship, 2) That the team with the most points, after the preliminary rounds of the Mid-Kerry Minor Football League, wins the competition. It was decided to set up a rota of officers to attend the Lotto Draw in the CYMS on Sun. nights. Organisations, wishing to use the field, must comply with insurance requirements. The terms pertaining to player insurance were displayed on the notice-board in the dressing-rooms – injured players must comply with the terms in order to benefit from the scheme.

Mon. 26^th Jan. in the JP O Sullivan Park – The attitude of the former Chairman of the Mid-Kerry Board towards Laune Rangers’ club caused concern and rebuke. The Insurance Officer, Bart Moriarty, sought an opportunity to explain to the players about the players’ injury scheme. It was decided that a player attending the physiotherapist, Kathleen Keating, in future must have a note of permission signed by the Chairman or Secretary of the club or the team manager. The physiotherapist was also asked to co-operate with that scheme. The renovation of the old dressing-rooms was still on the cards – planning permission had been forthcoming. A letter of resignation from Mike Foley was read. The Chairman outlined the background to the resignation and his role in the setting up of the Laune Rangers’ Golf Society. Ger Counihan, in accepting the Chairman’s explanation of events, spoke in glowing terms about Michael Foley and concurred with his actions but he said that the problem had been of a procedural nature. Bart Moriarty and Michael Ahern also spoke very highly of Michael Foley’s contribution to the club. After some further debate, Michael Foley withdrew his resignation. Ger Counihan proposed and it was accepted that, in future, sub-committees charged with raising funds for the club should contain at least 3 members of the Finance Committee. The Chairman complained about the breach in confidentiality with regard to the club’s choice of candidate as Chairman of the Co. Board.

Mon. 8^th Feb. at the JP O Sullivan Park – The club had received a letter from two mothers (Mona Joy and Frances Knightley) whose daughters had not been allowed to register for Laune Rangers’ U-12 football training on the previous day. The pros and cons of the situation were discussed and finally it was decided that the girls should be allowed to register. At Michael Ahern’s suggestion, the club decided to provide club jumpers to the three Laune Rangers’ candidates who had reached the All-Ireland final of Scór na nOg quiz. Peter Lyons was congratulated on being appointed to officiate at the NFL game, Limerick v Tipperary.

Tues. 2^nd March at the JP O Sullivan Park – Pat Pigott reported that he was trying to get a separate girls’ football club set up at juvenile level. The Chairman informed the meeting that the senior ‘B’ team would play in Div. 6 of the Co. League, from which there was promotion. The meeting agreed that the Bord na nOg section of the club would take part in the local St. Patrick’s Day parade. The Scór na nOg Quiz team was congratulated on its success in the All-Ireland Final.

Tues. 23^rd March in the JP O Sullivan Park – A discussion took place on Ladies Football. Michael Ahern explained that originally Ladies Football had been set up in clubs that had been short of players. Since then, Ladies Football had become a separate body within the county, Munster and Ireland. Girls were entitled, however, to play with the boys’ teams until they were 14 years of age. Laune Rangers’ Club had no objection to that. John Griffin opined that, as a big club, Laune Rangers should have a Ladies Football sub-committee. It was decided to rectify that. Many at the meeting complained about the state of the pitch and Johnny Galvin was appointed to take charge of it and advise Jerry O Sullivan and others when and what to do to it. Willie Fitzgerald was thanked for providing transport for the St. Patrick’s Day parade.

Mon. 22^nd April at JP O Sullivan Park – James Ferris reported that a Ladies’ Football sub-committee had been set up. Sponsorship had been sought and mentors had been appointed to the various age-groups. More help had been sought. Jerry Griffin informed the meeting that Des Ahern was wiring the house in Paddy Sheehy’s Field and a work-day had been organised for Sat. 26^th March. A letter from John Ahern was read stating that he would not be available to Laune Rangers’ minor panel for the remainder of the season. The Chairman hoped that he would not be a permanent loss to the club. James Coffey warned against the spiralling cost of team travel, physio, etc. It was agreed that the matter had been getting out of hand. The Secretary was instructed to obtain a book of dockets, which team managers could give to players who required physio treatment and which would be given to the Treasurers when travelling expenses were being claimed. The Chairman agreed to speak to Peter Lyons regarding he attitude to his work on the Fás Scheme.

Mon. 11^th May in the JP O Sullivan Park – Garda Sergeant Ted Murphy attended as requested to discuss the traffic problems and parking problems encountered on big match-days in the JP O Sullivan Park. The following was agreed with regard to the forthcoming Co. Championship game versus Kenmare: 1) The club would request that the game would be scheduled for 7.30pm so as to avoid clashing with the Saturday evening Mass traffic, 2) Ger Counihan would approach Michael Moriarty, Furniture Sales, with a view to acquiring his grounds for parking, 3) Outgoing traffic would be re-routed back the old Glenbeigh Road, 4) Radio Kerry would be asked to advise patrons coming from the Kenmare direction to park their cars in town, 5) The writer of the Kenmare Notes in the Kenmare would also be advised of that arrangement. The Secretary informed the meeting that the club would be able to call on Fás people to help in the field, as arranged with the Fás Supervisor, John Melia. It was agreed that Peter Lyons would not be re-employed as a Fás worker in 1999. It was reported that Barry Harmon had cut sods for the pitch at Paddy Sheehy’s ground. Jerry Coffey threatened to resign as Chairman of the Development Committee if greater help with the newly acquired grounds was not forthcoming. Ger Counihan agreed to Chair the Finance Committee in 1998, the out-going Chairman, Michael Foley, agreed to serve on the committee. The club lotto was discussed at length. The majority of those present were in favour of having a four numbers’ lotto with a minimum jackpot of £500 with 26 numbers on the page and, if the jackpot was not won, the prizes would be £50 + 2 @ £25. That would lead to a bigger jackpot and consequently increased sales. Some felt that the system of giving one-third commission was much too generous and the Finance Committee was asked to examine that matter. The Secretary read a letter from Mona Joy, requesting payment of a £50 bill for food to the Fishery, which had not been authorised by the club. The club decided to pay half of the bill on that occasion but warned that such was not to reoccur. John Griffin complained that he had taken the senior team training on the usual nights only to be confronted by other teams that were training at the same time – that would not happen again. John Griffin reported on his concern for the safety of the players at the recent Co. Minor Football League Final in Strand Road, Laune Rangers v Emmett’s, as there had been no fence to protect the players from spectators and the matter would be raised at Co. Board level. Pat Pigott reported on the Tralee District Board U-16 Final, Laune Rangers versus Austin Stacks, at the end of which the referee had mistakenly indicated that Laune Rangers had won. Laune Rangers’ mentors had agreed that the match had been a draw and, in the interest of fair play, had undertaken to replay the game in Killorglin. The Secretary reported that the club had been approved for 8 people on the SES Scheme – it was accepted that those people would have to be supervised during their working hours. It was decided to devote a full meeting to plan for the future for club physical development. The Chairman gave an account of a disturbing development after the O Sullivan Cup match versus Beaufort in Beaufort on Sat. 9^th May. The Beaufort Chairman, Jack McGrath, accused Eoin Ferris of stealing a green and gold flag from the Beaufort dressing-rooms. However, it was pointed out the Beaufort Chairman that Eoin Ferris had been at the U-21 match in Limerick, Kerry v Laois, earlier in the day and had arrived at Beaufort, carrying his flag, on the way home from the U-21 game. Eventually, Jack McGrath relented and accepted the explanation. However, the club felt that a written apology was more appropriate.

Mon. 25^th May in the JP O Sullivan Park – With regard to the advertisement signs around the pitch in the JP O Sullivan Park, the Secretary was instructed to write to the business people involved and offer them an agreement of 3 years for £200 (the club would repaint the sign at a cost of £100 each). Gerry Coffey gave an update of progress in Paddy Sheehy’s field as follows: the sodding had been completed, the re-seeding would take place shortly, the area behind the lower goals would be filled and used for juvenile training/games, the house had been re-decorated as a dressing room. The Fás people would complete the work. James Ferris reported that the reason that the Co. Minor Football League final had been moved to Strand Road had been the state of the Austin Stack Park. A discussion took place on the abuse that Mike Hassett had received in Sneem from a team official. James Coffey and the Chairman reported that they had spoken to Mike Hassett (senior) and Mike Hassett (junior) and Liam Hassett regarding the possibility of rejoining the Co. Senior panel but it had proved ineffective.

Mon. 8^th June in the JP O Sullivan Park – The Chairman thanked FÁS for the men who had done great work in Paddy Sheehy’s field. James Coffey reported that the club had enough lotto tickets for another three weeks and it was decided to then change to the four-number system. John Griffin expressed annoyance that some officers had told the players that the scheduled 1997 Co. League final versus Dingle had been called off, when he had planned to meet with the players regardless of the final. Preparations for the Co. Senior Football Championship match versus Kenmare were made. It was decided to donate £40 to the Listry GAA Dog-night.

Mon. 29^th June at the JP O Sullivan Park – James Ferris said that he had not been happy with the apology in the Jack McGrath/Eoin Ferris affair. In fact he had not been happy with the way that the club had handled the affair. He also reported that a levy of £150 per club would be imposed by the Co. Board for Public Liability Insurance.

Tues. 28^th July at JP O Sullivan Park – It had been decided to rent the part of the JP O Sullivan Park outside the fence to the Puck Fair Committee for parking purposes, once public liability had been provided.

Tues. 25^th Aug. at the JP O Sullivan Park – It was decided to donate £40 to Dr. Crokes’ Dog-night. James O Shea had been called before the GPC arising out of having been sent off against St. Brendan’s and the Chairman had arranged for a letter from the player involved with James O Shea to be read at the meeting.

Mon. 28^th Aug. at the JP O Sullivan Park – Patrick O Shea indicated in a letter that he had stepped down as a referee. Tributes were paid to him by the Chairman and Bart Moriarty. With regard to the lotto, new sellers in different areas of the parish were to be identified. Application for Lottery Funding was being prepared. The boycotting of the presentation of the U-12 Mid-Kerry Championship final trophy by the players and mentors was discussed and criticised.

Mon. 2^nd Nov. at the JP O Sullivan Park – James Ferris complained about the mal-treatment of Laune Rangers’ juvenile teams by Mid-Kerry Bord na nOg. John Griffin complained about the incursion by Joe Shannon into the dressing-room at halftime in the Munster Club Championship game versus Bantry Blues. It was agreed that Joe Shannon had been out of order and such behaviour should not be allowed to re-occur. The Chairman congratulated the senior team on winning the Co. Club Championship and the ‘B’ team on winning Div. 6 of the Co. League.

 

Laune Rangers acquired Paddy Sheehy’s field in Cloon on a rental basis in order to alleviate the pressure on the main pitch in J.P. O Sullivan Park. Training for all juvenile teams up to and including U-16 level was transferred to Cloon.

Laune Rangers received a grant of £1,000 from Comhairle na Mumhan towards the refurbishment of dressing-rooms.

 

Laune Rangers, in keeping with all the other clubs, had to nominate its first-fifteen players, who would be ineligible to play on the ‘B’ team in the Co. League Div. 6 for the year. Those were forwarded to the Mid-Kerry Board for acceptance as follows: Peter Lyons, John Sheehan, Adrian Hassett, Mark O Connor, Johnny Lynch, Tommy Byrne, Mike Hassett, Conor Kearney, Liam Hassett, Pa O Sullivan, Timmy Fleming, Mike Frank Russell, Paul Griffin, Gerard Murphy and Billy O Shea. The following 6 players were regraded from senior status: Pierce Prendiville, James O Shea, Pa Murhy, Brien Gannon, Shane O Sullivan and Paudie Sheahan. Laune Rangers also had to forward a second fifteen, who would be ineligible to play on the ‘C’ team in the Urban League as follows: Fergus O Meara, Pa Murphy, Paudie Sheahan, Thomas Walsh, Eoin O Connell, John Francis O Brien, Shane O Sullivan, Pierce Prendiville, James O Shea, Joe Shannon, John Doona, Derry O Sullivan, Brian Gannon, Pat McKenna, Billy O Sullivan.

 

At the club meeting on Mon. 8^th June, it was reported that Eamonn Foley had transferred to Neasden Gaels in London.

At the Co. GAC meeting on 31^st Aug. Vivian O Callaghan’s transfer from Cork to Laune Rangers was sanctioned.

 

Laune Rangers’ Church Gate Collection for Kerry Coaching and Games yielded £511.35.

 

A letter, dated 2^nd April, was received by the club Secretary, Tommy Woods, and copied to James Sheehan, Minor Trainer and his selectors, Jeremiah Coffey and Noel O Mahony, to this effect: “I am writing to inform you that I will not be available to the Laune Rangers’ Minor panel for the remainder of this season. I have arrived at this decision after careful consideration, and I have concluded that to remain on the panel would be detrimental to my future. I have enjoyed playing the game with the club in the past and, perhaps, I may enjoy playing football again in the future. Yours sincerely, John Ahern. (15 Caragh Village, Caragh Lake).”

 

The following were registered players/members of Laune Rangers Club for 1998: Peter Lyons, Adrian Hassett, Mark O Connor, Tommy Byrne, Shane O Sullivan, Mike Hassett, Pierce Prendiville, James O Shea, Paul Griffin, Billy O Sullivan, Billy O Shea, Liam Hassett, Pa Murphy, Conor Kearney, Karl Griffin, Mark Conway, Derry O Sullivan, Eoin O Connell, Johnny Lynch, Eoin Ferris, Gerard Murphy, Timmy Fleming, John Sheehan, Brian Gannon, Mike Frank Russell, John O Sullivan, Pa O Sullivan, Fergus O Meara, Thomas Walsh, John Doona, Liam Foley, Danny Cahill, Jason Griffin, Mikey Griffin, Martin Clifford, Robert Evans, Michael Moriarty, Eoin O Sullivan, John O Donnell, Jerry O Brien, John Francis O Brien, Anthony O Sullivan, James Hurley, Alan O Sullivan, Eddie Birmingham, Darragh O Sullivan, Dermot Murphy, Podge Foley, Enda Clifford, Nigel Corkery, Joe Shannon, Pat McKenna, Paudie Sheahan, Fergal O Brien, Pa Sheehan, John Moriarty, Brendan Fitzgerald, Morgan Foley, Kevin Cahillane, Garrath Sheehan, Ross Breen, Jamie Cahillane, Robert Moriarty, Terence Houlihan, Carl Falvey, Billy O Mahony, Paul Russell, Paudie Russell, Michael O Reilly, Patrick Pigott, Carl O Sullivan, Jerome Conway, James Sheehan, Donal Pigott, John Evans, John Purcell, Noel O Mahony, Matty Cahill, William Joy, Brian O Shea, Patrick O Shea, Aidan Gannon, Jerry Foley, Dominic Crowley, Declan Falvey, Finbarr Coffey, Gene Evans, Frankie Russell, John Griffin, Sean Whelan, Pat Clifford, Batty Foley, Dodo Sheahan, Pa Foley, James Foley, Mike O Donnell, Mossy Joy, John Sheehan, Michael Cahillane, Peter Byrne, James Murphy, Redmond Fitzgerald, Pat O Keeffe, Eamonn Foley, Fiachra O Donoghue, Donncha Curran, Colm Conway, Tony Lyons, James Ferris, Patsy Joy, Sean Moriarty, James McInery, Michael Hurley, Paul O Brien, Joe Hayes, Jimmy Hayes, Pat Leahy, Noel Lynch, Cian Foley, John Ahern, Trevor Gannon, Sean Costello, Andrew O Reilly, Brian Houlihan, Brian Curran, Aidan O Connor, Michael McGillycuddy, John Clifford, Jim Galvin, Ger Counihan, Tommy Woods, James Coffey, Michael Foley, John Griffin, Mike O Shea, Liam Shannon, Maurice Corkery, Bart Moriarty, Gerry Coffey, Paddy Crowley, Enda Clifford, Jonathan Griffin, Pa Galvin, Declan Crowley, Maura Tuohy, John Galvin, Frank Griffin, Frankie Sheahan, Kevin Foley, Donie Griffin, John Foley (Reen), Teddy Clifford, John Quirke, Con Griffin, Denis O Neill, Maurice Geary, Sean Murphy (The Square), Ann O Sullivan (Mountain View), John Sheehan (Sn.), Joe Crowley, Gearoid O Sullivan (Glenashe), Tom O Shea (Mountain View), Steve Joe Cahillane, Patrick O Connor (Laune View), Joe O Sullivan, Tom O Connor, Liam Clifford, Pat Sheehan, Johnny Galvin, Denis Russell, Eoin Mangan, Tom Curtayne, Brendan Breen, Christy O Riordan, Mick O Connell, Jim Burns, Willie Fitzgerald, Jerry Foley, James O Riordan (Gurrane), James Galvin, Bernadette O Mahony, Johnny Lynch, Eamonn Crowley, Johnny Doona (Dromin), Jimmy Doona (do.), Jerry Houlihan, Barry Harmon, Johnny O Donoghue, Tom Curran, Vincent Evans, Jacko Foley, Conor O Mahony, Michael O Mahony (Killarney), Liam Russell, Bernard Jones, Myles O Brien, John Brown, Paudie O Connor, Liam Burke, Dan Moriarty, Siobhan O Sullivan, Dodo Sheahan, Patrick O Sullivan (Sunhill), Iraneus Looney, Michael Ahern, Davey O Shea, Dermot O Shea, Timmy Moroney, James Foley (Knocknavota), Bill McSwiney, Jack Moriarty, Pat O Riordan, James Cahillane (Ardlahas), Jerome O Regan, Rick Sheehy, Colm Dunlea, Michael O Connor (Rangue), Pat Clifford (Meanus), Donie Griffin, Brendan Foley, Laurence O Connor, Mike O Leary, Patrick O Shea, Leonard Clifford, Patie O Connor (Douglas), Christy Clifford, James Tobin, John Healy, Stephen Corkery, Francis McMahon, James O Riordan, Ian Rodgers, Gerard Flynn (Tullig), John Woods, Mike Hassett (Sn.), Jamie Clifford, Joe Cronin, Michael Costello, Teddy Houlihan, Stefan Henken, Des Ahern, Sheila Kennedy, Christy Fenton, Sean Joy, Pa Sheehan, Fergus Clifford, Brendan Fitzgerald, Kevin Cahillane, Jamie Cahillane, Carl Falvey.

 

Kerry Co. Board launched a Kerry Lottery. Subscriptions were £75 and clubs were offered incentives to encourage people to join. The following joined the lottery through Laune Rangers Club: Declan Falvey, Patsy/Breda Joy (Bansha), Maurice/Bernadette Corkery, John Clifford, Ger Counihan, T & K Slattery (Kielduff, Tralee), Mary Griffin, Tommy Woods, Tony Costello (Gurrane East), Fr. Noel Spring, Vincent Evans, Bart Moriarty, John/Jim Galvin (Keelcoulaght), Michael Foley, John V. O Sullivan (Keelcoulaght), Ann O Sullivan (Mountain View), Pat/Kitty Riordan (Upper Tullig West), Marion/Jean Newman (Mullingar), Eileen Griffin (Upper Tullig West), James Galvin (Templeogue, Dublin), Abbie Fitzgerald (Mullingar), Willie/Jean Galigan (Mullingar), Sheila Sheahan (The Square), Noreen Brady (Palmerstown, Dublin), Michael J. O Shea (Laharn House), Carmel Somers (Mullingar), Mary Cronin (Glencuttane), James Murphy (Iveragh Park), Batt/Mary/Nora Riordan (Scrahan), Eamonn Crowley, Robert Murphy, Francie Griffin, James Coffey, John/Mary Quirke, Jacko Foley, Michael O Connor (Kells), James Foley (Knockavota), Bill McSwiney, Jeremiah Kelliher, Siobhan Foley (Anglont), Margaret O Shea (Laharn), PJ/MT Riordan (Curraheen Little, Glenbeigh), Mary O Malley (Milltown), Brian/Mary O Shea, Joe Crowley, Eileen Clifford, Billy Dodd, Jerome O Regan, Barry/Joan Harmon, Mona Joy, Shane/Shivaun O Sullivan, Kathleen Foley (Anglont), James O Riordan (School Road), John Foley (Iveragh Park), Tim O Shea, Michael/Philomena Joy (Coolroe, Glenbeigh), Brendan/Josephine Foley, John Purcell, James Sheehan, Nora Looney, Robert McCormack (Tullig More), Margaret Griffin (Gurrane West), William Tobin (Manor Inn), Michael Murphy (Iveragh Park), Adrian Hassett, Francis Griffin, Declan Beasley, Thomas Evans, Liam/Gina Foley, Ann Moriarty (Killasser House), James Riordan (Gurrane), Brid Moriarty, Pat Pigott, John A. Joy, Timothy O Shea (Laharn), Edward O Connor (Bandon), Elaine Moriarty (Muingaphouca), Con Griffin, Jim O Shea (Vintage Inn), Ted Houlihan, Ann O Sullivan (Ownagarry), Paddy Brown, Lillie Murphy (Lismacfinnan), Conor O Mahony, Gerry/Eileen O Brien (Annadale), Mary Teresa Kelly (Reenalagane, Glenbeigh), Patrick O Connor (Laune View).

 

Co. Senior Football Final in Austin Stack Park: East-Kerry 2-13; St. Kieran’s 1-10

Co. SFL Final in Austin Stack Park: Laune Rangers 1-10; Kerins O Rahillys 0-11

Co. Minor Football Final on Sat. 12^th Sept. at Tralee: Mid-Kerry 1-11; West-Kerry 0-8.

Co. U-21 Football Final in Annascaul: Kilcummin 4-14; West-Kerry 2-15

Co. Intermediate Football Final on Sun. 18^th Oct. at Austin Stack Park: An Ghaeltacht 2-14; Dingle 0-4.

Co. Junior Football Final: Rathmore v Finuge.

Co. Novice Football Final: St. Michael’s/Foilmore 1-12; Drmoid 1-5.

Co. MFL Div. 1 Final at Strand Road: Laune Rangers 0-8; Emmett’s 0-6

Mid-Kerry SFC on Sun. 6^th Dec. at JP O Sullivan Park: Beaufort defeated Milltown/Castlemaine.

Mid-Kerry Minor Football Championship: Milltown/Castlemaine defeated Beaufort.

Mid-Kerry U-16 Football Championship: Laune Rangers 0-12; Beaufort 0-4 at Killorglin.

Mid-Kerry U-14 Football Championship: Keel 2-11; Beaufort 1-10 at Keel.

Mid-Kerry U-12 Football Championship: Milltown/Castlemaine defeated Laune Rangers at Beaufort.

 

Co. U-16 Football Championship Final: Austin Stacks defeated Laune Rangers.

Co. U-14 Football Championship Final: Ballyduff defeated Kerins O Rahillys.

Co. U-12 Football Championship – Dingle and Kilcummin were joint winners.

 

Due to the Kerry bye-law, which only allowed for 21 medals to be presented to All-Ireland winning teams, and the fact that he was not considered worthy of even a few minutes on the field of play for the All-Ireland final, even though he had captained the team in the Munster Final, Mike Hassett was not given a medal. After all, he had gone to tremendous lengths to ensure that he made training sessions in Killarney, travelling from his Wicklow base with great commitment and dedication. Indeed, he was far more deserving of an All-Ireland medal than some of the people who subsequently gained official sanction. Consequently, Mike and Liam withdrew their services from the county team for 1998.

However, in October, the Hassetts relented and again togged out with the Kerry Senior team in a challenge game versus Limerick in Tarbert. Kerry won by 0-17 to 0-12. Mike Hassett played at centre halfback, Liam scored 0-2 from full-forward and Mike Frank Russell played at right full-forward.

 

James Coffey received a letter, dated 23^rd Feb. from Sr. Marie, thanking him and Mike Frank Russell for visiting St. Mary of the Angels residential special home in Beaufort with the Sam Maguire Cup.

 

In February, John Noonan, engineer, confirmed that Planning Permission had been received from Kerry Co. Council for the erection of lights in the JP O Sullivan Park and for the re-roofing of the old dressing-rooms.

 

On 14^th April the whole parish and district was shocked at the news of the death of Dermot Murphy, Caragh Lake, following a car-accident. He was just 20 years of age. He had been a prominent member of Laune Rangers’ juvenile teams through the years. His former team-mates, as well as players from the various Laune Rangers’ teams, past and present, and officers formed a guard of honour on Wed. 15^th April to St. James’ Church and to Ardmoniel Cemetery on Thurs. 16^th April.

On Wed. 6^th May the death occurred of Christy O Riordan, Railway Terrace. He had been a former player, referee and officer of the Laune Rangers Club. Members of the club formed a guard of honour to the church and cemetery.

On 10^th Oct. the death occurred, after a long illness, of John Joe O Sullivan, Cromane Lower. He was just 27 years of age. He had played juvenile football with Laune Rangers and had joined Cromane when that club had been formed.

On Wed. 14^th Oct. Sean Evans died, at the early age of 15 years, after a thirteen-month battle against illness. He had been a brilliant juvenile player and certainly seemed destined for greater things on the field of play. He rarely missed a training session with the senior squad, which was trained by his Dad, John Evans. He had played on the Laune Rangers U-12 team for three years, winning three Mid-Kerry Championships and captaining the team in 1995. He then progressed onto the U-14 grade and in the first year he won the Mid-Kerry Championship from corner back. In 1997 he played at fullback and the team won the Co. Championship, Féile na nOg, Mid-Kerry Championship and Tralee District Board Championship. Senior and underage players and officials from the Laune Rangers club formed a guard of honour to the church and to the cemetery on the following day.

On Wed. 23^rd Dec. the entire county was astounded with the news that Pat McKenna, Steelroe, had died at the early age of 29. Without warning, he dropped dead in the kitchen of his parents’ house. Officers and players of the Kerry Co. Board and trainer, Páidí Ó Sé, and past and present officers and players of Laune Rangers Club formed a guard of honour to Dromavalla Cemetery on Sat. 26^th Dec. The coffin was shouldered, amongst others, by four former Kerry team captains from the Laune Rangers club – Mike and Liam Hassett, Billy O Shea and Joe Shannon.

Pat Pigott, Chairman of Laune Rangers’ Bord na nOg, penned the following appreciation of Sean Evans in the Kerryman on Thurs. 29^th Oct: “It was with great sadness we learned last week of the untimely and premature death of Sean Evans, RIP. It was only twelve short months ago that Sean was diagnosed with his illness and since then he carried it with courage and dignity. He first came to prominence with Laune Rangers in 1992, as a smiling nine-year old under the guidance of the late Seamus Murphy, RIP. He commenced his competitive football career on our U-12 team in 1993, on which he played for three years, winning 3 Mid-Kerry Championship medals and captaining the team from midfield to his third medal in 1995. Sean then progressed to our U-14 team with a big reputation of skill, dedication and total commitment. Playing at corner-back, winning a Mid-Kerry Championship medal and proving to his older team-mates that the step-up didn’t bother him, in fact it was he who often led the attack from his position. It was in 1997 that Sean really showed his class playing his football at fullback, winning a Co. Championship, Féile na nOg title, and Tralee District Board title. Once Sean donned the famed blue jersey, he gave his heart and soul on the field of play in the quest of victory and it was seldom, if ever, that Sean was found wanting. His ultimate ambition was to captain the team to a Mid-Kerry Championship victory. His serious illness did not deprive him of his final honour. On the day of the final in Milltown, he accepted the trophy, to quote himself as ‘a non-playing captain’. Sean fought his illness with the same determination as he played his football. For those of us lucky enough to have been a friend of Sean, we knew him as a lovable, charming young man who lived life to the full. His magical sense of humour and his unique smile brightened many a dull training session. Sean was also a very promising basketball player and, during his illness, had taken up golf, playing many of our fine courses in a very short space of time. To his parents, John and Bridie, his brother, Cian, his sister, Tara, his grandmother, Nora Evans, and to all his relations, we extend our deepest sympathy on their great loss. When great club teams are being picked in some far-off Heavenly pitch, I have no doubt Sean Evans, when selected, will want, as always, to have his say in the game-plan. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dilis.”

 

Tommy Woods, Club Secretary, received the following letter dated 31^st Dec. from the Secretary of Eire Og GAA Club, Carlow: “On behalf of Éire Og CLG, I wish to extend the condolences of our club to Laune Rangers and to the McKenna family on the recent death of Pat McKenna. The sudden nature of his passing at this time of year must have compounded the loss you now feel.

We are very aware that 1998 has not been kind to your club with the untimely deaths also of Dermot Murphy and young Sean Evans. While we did not know any of these individuals on a personal basis, we do feel a close affinity with your club and the families at this time because of our All-Ireland Club Final clash in 1996. We may be 170 miles away but we always kept a close eye on your progress since that game.

I am sure that the close-knit nature of your club will be a great support to the families and friends of the deceased. It is often sad occasions such as this that show the great place the club plays in the lives of its members and community.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.

Please convey our sympathies to the McKenna family and good wishes to Laune Rangers in 1999.

Le fíor mheas,

Turlough Ó Briain.

Oifigeach Forbartha.”

 

The following were listed as active referees for Laune Rangers’ Club: Peter Lyons, Patrick O Shea and Timmy Moroney.

 

Peter Lyons refereed the NFL game, Limerick v Tipperary in March.

 

Peter Lyons refereed the following game, amongst others, for the Mid-Kerry Board:

Senior League on Sun. 15^th March at Milltown: Milltown/Castlemaine 2-13; Beaufort 0-6.

Senior ‘B’ Champ. Rd. 1 on Tues. 5^th May at Cromane: Cromane ‘B’ 0-7; Keel ‘B’ 1-9.

Sn ‘B’ Champ. Rd. 2 on Tues. 12^th May at Milltown: Mill/Castlemaine ‘B’ 2-7; Glen/Glencar ‘B’ 1-8.

Senior ‘B’ Champ. Rd. 3 on Tues. 19^th May at Milltown: Mill/Castlemaine ‘B’ 1-7; Keel ‘B’ 0-9.

Senior ‘B’ Champ. Rd. 5 on Tues. 2^nd June at Cromane: Cromane ‘B’ lost to Mill/Castlemaine ‘B’.

O Sullivan Cup Semi-final on Sat. 30^th May at Keel: Keel 1-9; Milltown/Castlemaine 2-11.

Minor Championship on Sun. 29^th Nov. at Glenbeigh: Glenbeigh/Glencar 0-8; Beaufort 3-4.

SFC Final on Sun. 6^th Dec. at Killorglin: Beaufort Milltown/Castlemaine.

 

Patrick O Shea refereed the following games, amongst others, for the Mid-Kerry Board:

U-16 Championship on Wed. 1^st April at Keel: Keel 1-9; Glenbeigh/Glencar 0-4.

U-16 Championship on Wed. 15^th April at Glenbeigh: Glenbeigh/Glencar 0-9; Cromane 2-11.

Senior ‘B’ Champ. Rd. 3 on Tues. 19^th May at Cromane: Cromane ‘B’ 0-8; Glenbeigh/Glencar ‘B’ 0-8.

 

On Sun. 2^nd Aug. the Kingdom defeated Neasden Gaels by 0-15 to 0-8 to reach the quarter-finals of the London Senior Football Championship. Eamonn Foley, former Laune Rangers’ player, played at midfield. Christy Kissane was a selector.

 

The Annual Church-gate Collection for the coaching of Kerry teams was taken up in September. The Killorglin collection yielded £511.35.

 

Laune Rangers held its Scór na nOg competition, organised by Mary Clifford, in Scoil Mhuire on Fri. 13^th Nov. and the following represented the club in the Mid-Kerry finals in Beaufort:

Figure Dancing – Ciara O Grady, Sarah Crowley, Siobhán Joy, Sarah Jane Joy. Solo Singing – Muireann Clifford. Instrumental Music – Sharon Langston, Laura Cahillane, Edward Looney, Eve Griffin and Muireann Clifford. Question Time – Ann Marie Cahillane, Gearóid Clifford and Simon Brosnan. Recitation – Karen McGillycuddy. Ballad Group – Kieran Crowley, Jade O Connor, Nicola O Connor, Ciara O Grady, Karen McGillycuddy. Set Dancing – Daniel Tuohy, Louise O Connor, Colin O Sullivan, Orla McSweeney, John McKenna, Caitriona Tuohy, Shane Ahern, Siobhán Joy.

At the Mid-Kerry finals in Beaufort on Fri. 20^th Nov. Laune Rangers qualified for the Co. Semi-finals in the Figure Dancing, Solo Singing, Instrumental Music and Ballad Group.

At the Co. Semi-finals in Kenmare on Fri. 4^th Dec. Laune Rangers qualified in two items for the Co. Final in the Gleneagle Hotel, Killarney, on Sun. 13th Dec. – Ballad Group and Instrumental Music.

The Instrumental Music group qualified for the Munster Semi-final in Millstreet on Sun. 10^th Jan. 2009.

The Annual Social was held in the Fishery on Sat. 6^th Feb. 1999. Sean Walsh, Chairman of the Kerry Co. Board was the guest of honour and he presented the medals to the ‘A’, ‘B’, ‘C’ and minor teams. John Dowling, Chairman of Mid-Kerry Board was also in attendance and he presented the Mid-Kerry Senior League and ‘B’ Championship medals. Other guests included Paddy Crowley (President), Keith Bradshaw and Agnes Foley. 108 people attended @ 9.50 each. Paul Griffin was awarded senior player-of-the-year.

 

Kerry were beaten by Laois in the All-Ireland Minor Football Championship semi-final on Sun. 30^th Aug. at Croke Park

Kerry: Kieran Cremin (Dr. Crokes), Ronan O Connor (Ballyduff), Stephen O Sullivan (Skellig Rangers), Keith Moynihan (Annascaul), Marc Ó Sé (An Ghaeltacht), Liam Keane (Emmett’s), Ronan O Connor (Kilcummin), Eoin Brosnan (Dr. Crokes), Eugene Courtney (Glenbeigh/Glencar) capt., Tadhg Kennelly (Emmett’s), Paul Galvin (Ballymac), Sean O Sullivan (Cromane), Ronan O Connor (St. Michael’s/Foilmore), Liam Boyle (Ballyduff), Kevin Lynch (Desmonds). Subs: Humphrey Shanahan (Desmonds), Kenneth O Connor (Glenbeigh/Glencar), Ciarán Fitzmaurice (Finuge), John O Donoghue (Glenflesk), Flor O Sullivan (Tuosist), Mike Burke (Milltown/Castlemaine), Richard Barrett (Na Gaeil), Aidan O Mahony (Rathmore), Darragh O Flaherty (An Ghaeltacht).

Trainer – Charlie Nelligan (Desmonds). Selectors – Derry Crowley (Glenflesk), Junior Murphy (St. Mary’s), Mikey Sheehy (Austin Stacks) and John Kennedy (Asdee).

 

The AGM of the Laune Rangers Club was held on Mon. 7^th Dec. and Tommy Woods gave his Secretary’s Report as follows: “1998 was another successful year in the history of our club both on and off the field. This is the first time during my term as Secretary that the senior team has a winter-break as such. I am sure they would like that luxury more often but, with the amount of competitions they have to play and games sometimes being called off for trivial reasons, the season seems to be extending every year.

Administration

This year a total of 12 club meetings were held. For the most part, they were well attended. Meetings are for all the members and not just for the officers.

Sponsorship

Once again Killorglin Credit Union sponsored all our teams from minor level upwards. Laune Rangers are lucky to have such generous and approachable sponsors. Our present agreement with the Credit Union runs until March ’99. Negotiations will begin shortly with them and it is hoped that our relationship will continue to grow. Laune Rangers have many other generous sponsors who, without fail, answer our call every time. One, I feel, deserves special mention and that is Sean Murphy of the Starlite Cleaners. Sean and his staff have washed the gear for every team in the club without charge for as long as he is in business. Thanks to all our sponsors and I would ask club members to support our sponsors.

Finance

Finance continues to be a big headache for all who try to raise money. The Chairmanship of the Finance Committee passed from Mike Foley to Ger Counihan during the year. The big undertaking this year is the Race Night, which is coming up shortly in the Fishery – 27^th Dec. to be precise. We hope you will all come along and support the night. Other ideas of raising much-needed funds have been postponed until the spring.

The Lotto has, at long last, picked up. Midway through the year, we changed to a four number Lotto and sales have almost doubled. New sellers have also been found and existing sellers are selling more tickets. There is still room for improvement, as there are areas in the parish not being canvassed by anyone. Thanks to all our sellers, to our CYMS team of Jim Galvin, Mattie Cahill, Johnny Galvin, Mike O Shea, Peter Lyons and Jamie Clifford. Thanks, also, to the club officers who take turns to administer the Lotto. Thanks, also, to those people who buy tickets and to the committee of the CYMS for allowing us to hold our weekly draw there and sell large quantities of tickets to their Bingo customers.

Membership

In my report last year, I noted how membership had risen considerably. This was because we were selling in pubs etc. Sadly, 1998 membership income is down almost £1,000. Because of new regulations, we decided it was best not to sell in pubs etc. This, however, resulted in many of our 1997 new members not being members in 1998. Three members of the first 15 on our senior team were not fully paid-up members this year. On glancing through the record of the ‘B’ and ‘C’ team members over the last five years, many of them would only be members for 1 or 2 years. Players know who the registrars are. Anyone who has been a member of this club for the past I don’t know how many years knows that Liam Shannon has it all in his book. Players should note that, if they are injured, their insurance claim is invalid if they are not members.

Pitches

After assessing the playing facilities of the club at the J.P. O Sullivan Park during 1997 and the start of 1998, it was found that the surface of our main pitch and training ground had deteriorated to such an extent that the immediate provision of an alternative pitch was inevitable.

A three-year lease, with an option to purchase, was obtained on 16 acres of level, dry land at Cloon, Killorglin. John Quirke, of Quirke’s Sand and Gravel, provided us with the use of a Digger Track Machine, earth-moving equipment and roller to level ditches and provide a suitable car-parking area to allow on-site parking for 50 cars. With the kind assistance of Pa Murphy, the help of FÁS and voluntary labour, one full-size championship pitch was laid out and goal-posts erected.

The old derelict dwelling house was refurbished and converted into two dressing-rooms, with toilets and showering facilities. By developing this playing facility, we have been able to rest the J.P. O Sullivan Park by transferring a considerable amount of our activities to the new pitch. After this rest-period, we are now re-assessing the J.P. O Sullivan Park to decide the extent of draining and resurfacing required. We have also prepared a submission for (National) Lotto funding and the extent of upgrading and provision of car-parking facilities will be dependent on the level of funding available from the Lotto funds. We anticipate that a proposal for upgrading, showing the time schedule involved, will be submitted to the club within the next 6 to 8 weeks.

FÁS has granted us an extra person to work on the pitches for next year and this is much appreciated – a special thank you to John Melia for his help. This year, we had 8 students on the student summer job scheme. Suffice to say that some show a better appetite for work than others.

Club Window

Our club window is still attracting great attention from locals and visitors alike. If you have any old photos you feel should be displayed, contact Michael Ahern or James Ferris to display them.

Bord na nOg

Bord na nOg had another good year in 1998. Michael Ahern will give a report later on the year’s activities. Before I recall the events of our teams in 1998, there are a number of people who must be thanked.

Thanks

To Mike Foley, our long serving treasurer, who is stepping down this year.

To Mary Clifford, who brought All-Ireland success to the club with her Quiz team – to team members Seamus Galvin, Anne Marie Cahillane and Patrick Clifford and to their team coaches, Eoin Clifford and Jamie Cahillane.

To Pat O Shea, who stepped down as a referee during the year. Pat is now acting as team medic.

To the local Press and Radio Kerry for their coverage of our games during the year.

To the local Gardaí, and especially Sergeant Ted Murphy, for their assistance with traffic management of big games in the J.P. O Sullivan Park.

To the committee of the Laune Rangers Golf Society, to its President, Eoin Mangan, and Captain, Joe Shannon, for an enjoyable year. All the outings were very well attended. The next outing is the Christmas Hamper. This will be held in Dooks on 2^nd January. Best wishes to incoming Captain, Finbarr Coffey. Best wishes to one of our former Chairmen, Aidan Gannon, who has just assumed the captaincy of Dooks Golf Club.

To Eileen and Eamonn Crowley and the staff of the Fishery for the excellent night we had at our Social.

To John Quirke for the use of his machinery at Cloon.

Teams

Despite the loss of our Mid-Kerry Senior Championship title, 1998 was a successful year on the playing field. Many clubs would have been immensely proud to win what we have won this year. It is a measure of how far we have come, when you hear people complaining after a year in which the senior team won the Mid-Kerry League, Kerry Club Championship and the Co. League Div. 1 title twice, 1996 and 1997. The club also represented Kerry in the Munster Club Championship. 1998 will be looked on as a transitional year. We lost many players through injury at different times of the year and at no stage had we a fully fit panel. Many young players, also, took their first steps in senior football in 1998 and this will stand to them in the years ahead. Congratulations to Mike Frank Russell on representing Munster in the Railway Cup and on winning a Munster Senior Championship medal and, along John Sheehan and Pa O Sullivan, an U-21 medal. I’m sure I speak for every fan of Kerry football in welcoming the Hassetts, Mike and Liam, back into the Kerry set-up. Well done to our senior team trainer, John Griffin, and selectors, Ger Counihan and Patsy Joy, for all their hard work during the year.

Congratulations to our senior ‘B’ team on a very successful ’98. They not only captured the Mid-Kerry ‘B’ title but the newly-formed Div. 6 of the Co. League, where they beat their arch-rivals, Kerins O Rahillys. They were unlucky to be beaten in the Molyneaux Cup final, as the team was missing a number of prominent players. Congratulations to the new management team of John Francis O Brien and Liam Foley and selectors Mike O Shea and Maurice Corkery. Maurice is stepping down as a selector this year and, on behalf of the club, I would like to thank him for his years of dedicated work as a selector.

Our ‘C’ team, under the guidance of Peter Byrne, Danny Cahill, Dominic Crowley and Peter Lyons, had a reasonably successful year in ’98. They lost the final of the Urban League and were defeated also in the semi-final of the Barrett Cup.

The U-21 campaign came to an end on Saturday with a 4 points loss to St. Kieran’s in the quarter-final. Preparing this team is an extremely difficult task. As matches are months apart and injuries and postponements and having players away in College all interfere with the proper preparation of teams. Well done to James Sheehan, Jerry Coffey, Denis Cleary and Noel O Mahony for their work.

Our minors once again had a roller-coaster year. They won Div. 1 of the Co. Minor League, a tremendous achievement. They had a tough draw in the championship, away to Mid-Kerry, and suffered defeat. But, I suppose, the loss of the Mid-Kerry Championship once more was the hardest pill to swallow. In their defence, the day on which they lost to Milltown/Castlemaine was not a day fit for football and it made the game into a lottery.

Congratulations

To Peter Lyons, our long-standing goalkeeper, who is fast making a name for himself as a very able inter-county referee. Peter also refereed his first Mid-Kerry Senior Championship yesterday.

To Jerome Conway, on his election to the position of Vice-Chairman of the Kerry Co. Board.

To James Coffey, who is in his 27^th year as Joint-Treasurer of the Co. Board.

To Michael Ahern, who is Vice-Chairman of Bord na nOg.

Finally, I would like to wish the incoming committee well in the year ahead.”

 

Michael Ahern delivered the following report to the AGM of Laune Rangers Bord na nOg on 8^th Feb. 1999 in the Fishery: “The year’s AGM of Laune Rangers’ Bord na nOg was held in the Fishery on 26^th Nov. 1997. James Ferris, having held the position of Chairman and having served the club with dedication, informed the meeting that he was not seeking re-election. The meeting elected Pat Pigott to the Chair and re-elected Michael C. Ahern as PRO. He was also urged to take the position of Secretary and agreed to do so. As a result, Laune Rangers’ Bord na nOg, on the administrative side, has functioned with a two-man committee for the pst year. Having a committee reduced to the number of two is not necessarily in the best interest of the committee, the club or indeed the two individuals, who carry the workload, a matter which will again be referred to in a different context hereinafter in this report.

The year’s activities opened in a blaze of glory with our Scor na nOg Quiz Team (Seamus Galvin, Padraig Clifford and Ann Marie Cahillane) capturing the All-Ireland title in Athlone on the 21^st Feb, under the management of Mary Clifford, Muingaphouca, and additional coaching by Eoin Clifford, Meanus. The club in general made its contribution to this gallant Quiz Team by making an appropriate financial contribution towards the cost of coach transport and in presenting each of the competitors with an official Laune Rangers’ jumper for the occasion. Mary Clifford reports that quite apart from excelling intellectually in the All-Ireland, the Quiz Team presented a very smart image in official Laune Rangers’ dress. Subsequently, to mark their victory, Bord na nOg arranged a reception for the team, their management, parents and supporters at the Fishery and presented Mary Clifford and each of the team members with a framed coloured photograph, by Riona McMonagle, the cost of which was paid for by the club.

On the football field, our season commenced on Sun. 8^th Feb. We played Kildimo of Limerick in challenge games at U-13 and U-15 and, after a most enjoyable Sunday’s football, treated the visitors and their mentors to refreshments in Bunkers. U-12 training commenced on the same day and U-14 training commenced on 14^th Feb. Training for U-8 and U-10 players had to be postponed until ground conditions and weather conditions became suitable for that tender age group. On the evening of Fri. 13^th March, all our U-12 and U-14 players of the previous year had a get-together at the Fishery, for the presentation of medals from the previous year and for team photographs. Our U-14A team, having in the previous year swept all before it, captured the Co. League, Co. Feile Championship, Tralee District League and Mid-Kerry Championship. Our U-14B team had won the U-14B Co. League. All our U-12 players attended the presentation. Neither the A nor B teams had achieved victories in the previous year and had no medals to collect. Joseph Crowley of Mulvihill’s Pharmacy presented a team photograph to each of the players and the club was most thankful to Joseph’s thoughtful and valued gesture, in that every player at U-12 and U-14, who had donned a Laune Rangers’ jersey the previous year, was given his own team photograph. Patsy Joy presented and sponsored a Perpetual Trophy for the U-12 player-of-the-year and Vincent Costello, Tulligmore, was the first to receive it.

By the end of Feb. all our players, from U-16 down, were training except our U-8 and U-10 players, who were being prevented by bad weather and wet ground. In an effort to assemble and keep together the U-8’s and U-10’s, the club arranged a special outing for them to Tralee Aquadome on Sun. 22^nd March. I, as Secretary, travelled with that group and saw first hand the great work that Pat Pigott, Willie Fitzgerald and Pat O Brien put into organising the outing. Youngsters and parents alike were most thankful for it and it did in no small way help to keep that age-group interested.

While Laune Rangers have maintained ‘B’ teams at U-12, U-14 and U-16 levels over a number of years, the club found it difficult to get meaningful competition at ‘B’ level. Quite simply, there are no ‘B’ teams in Mid-Kerry, a few in Tralee and none at all in the larger county area except for Gaeltacht. Robbed of an opportunity to play meaningful ‘B’ football in Mid-Kerry, the club has to look to Tralee District and the lower divisions of the Co. League to provide football for them. For the first year our U-14B team was admitted to Div. 5 of the Co. League, as was our U-12B team. For our U-16B’s, we negotiated and agreed a new style Mid-Kerry League with Mid-Kerry Bord na nOg, Laune Rangers ‘A’, Beaufort and Milltown/Castlemaine to play in the League Cup, with Laune Rangers ‘B’, Glenbeigh/Glencar, Cromane and Keel in the Laune Rangers’ Shield (The winners of the Shield were to play in the semi-final of the Cup).

Yours truly personally sponsored the Shield and set of medals, ultimately to suffer the final insult in that Laune Rangers ‘B’ team played one game only against Cromane in the first round where they were defeated. Glenbeigh refused to play Laune Rangers ‘B’. We were due to play Keel on the evening that Dermot Murphy’s remains came to Killorglin Church. Keel claimed a walk-over and proceeded, more or less behind our backs, to arrange the Shield final against Cromane, which they won. Laune Rangers U-16B got only one game. This experience with Mid-Kerry Bord na nOg will be referred to later. Laune Rangers ‘A’ had the satisfaction of emerging winners of the U-16 Mid-Kerry League Cup.

This year saw the establishment of a Ladies’ Football Committee, having exclusive responsibility for the promotion of Ladies Football at all ages. This committee was established under the Chairmanship of James Ferris, Vice-Chair Mary Griffin, Secretary Ann Lynch and they no doubt furnish their own report at the appropriate time. The club participated in the Community Games Football competitions, with Jerry Houlihan, Douglas, in charge of the girls’ team and Pat O Shea, Sunhill, in charge of the boys’ team.

By the end of April, we found ourselves extremely active and, to some degree, stretched for personnel and resources. To give an example, in the week commencing Sun. 12^th April, our U-16B team defeated Churchill at home in the Tralee District ‘B’ League, our U-12A’s were out against Fossa in a challenge game, our U-14B team travelled to Moyvane in the 3^rd Rd. of Div. 5 of the Co. League, our U-14A team was at home to Ballyduff in Div. 1 of the Co. League, our U-12B team was out against Dr. Crokes in a challenge game and our U-12A team commenced its Co. League campaign. I quote this week in particular to give an example of the level of activity in which Bord na nOg has been involved during the past year.

I will summarise the year’s performances for each team as follows:

U-16A – Sponsored by The Fishery. Management team – Pat O Riordan, Peter Lyons, Jerome O Regan, throughout the year and John Griffin, Caragh Lake, in the earlier part of the year. They won the Mid-Kerry League by defeating Beaufort 1-14 to 1-8 at Milltown on May 18^th. They performed well but did not win the Tralee District League, reached the final of Div. 1 of the Co. League being defeated in the Fitzgerald Stadium, Killarney, by Austin Stacks and defeated Beaufort in the Mid-Kerry Championship – all in all a successful year for the U-16A’s.

U-16B – Sponsored by the Fishery and managed by Colm Conway, the team was denied proper competition in the Mid-Kerry Shield, as explained above, but performed well in the Tralee District League. The team had no other competition.

U-14A – Sponsored by Champs Super Valu, the team was managed by Pat Pigott, Patsy Joy and Jerry Foley. The team was beaten in the Co. League semi-final by Kerins O Rahillys, was beaten by Desmonds in the semi-final of the Feile competition, lost to Beaufort in the semi-final of the Mid-Kerry Championship and finished down the league in Tralee District.

U-14B – Sponsored by O Grady’s Londis, with Jerry Coffey and Michael Ahern as mentors, the team refused to partake in the Mid-Kerry Championship due to the fact that they would have to play ‘A’ teams. There was no point in sending U-14B’s out to be destroyed by ‘A’ teams from Milltown, Beaufort, Glenbeigh and Keel etc. The U-14B’s played a number of challenge games. They played in Div. 5 of the Co. League where they were drawn against Moyvane, Ballydonoghue, Glenflesk, Duagh, Fossa and Cromane. All the opposition teams were ‘A’ teams and this squad ended up travelling long distances and suffering strong defeats, the benefit of which is highly questionable.

U-12A – Sponsored by FEXCO, with Patsy Joy, John Quirke and Jerry Houlihan in charge, sometimes assisted by Conor O Mahony, Eamonn Carey and James Riordan, the team did not perform well in the preliminary rounds of the Co. League and would probably have been suited for Div. 2 or 3 of the Co. League proper. However, those in charge were anxious that the players should get Div. 1 experience and we negotiated for Div. 1 status, which they were granted. They reached the final of the Mid-Kerry Championship but lost to Beaufort on Sat. 11^th Sept. by 1-5 to 1-4. While this team performed well in the Tralee District League, it did not capture the honours.

U-12B – Sponsored by Flynn’s Bus Hire, having been admitted to the Co. League Div. 8, the team found itself drawn against teams from Brosna, Knocknagoshel, Asdee and Duagh and, like our U-14B team, found itself travelling long distances to play ‘A’ teams from weaker clubs, the benefit of which must surely be questionable and should be examined by the club.

U-8/U-10 – these players do not have competitive football as such. However, they did take part in the Community Games and at the Mid-Kerry Blitz in Beaufort, where they had mixed luck and did not capture the final honours. However, they continue to train and play amongst themselves each Sunday morning and much credit is due to their mentors, Iraneus Looney, Willie Fitzgerald, Pat O Brien and others who are guiding them along. They do have a most successful Parish League, a concept which Patsy Joy has introduced and continues to play at U-12 level. This is most enjoyable and competitive for the players involved and it is conducted at home on club grounds, there is no travelling involved and no expenses and, with teams evenly divided, the competition is meaningful for the players involved.

Playing underage competition within the club on some form of Parish League basis is something that should be seriously examined by the club at U-8, U-10, U-12 and U-14. It may attract more players to our ranks, if they are all assured of a game. The playing, the winning and the losing of a Parish League at this age-group must be as beneficial as going out under the guise of a ‘B’ team and travelling to North-Kerry for Div. 5 games that incur long travelling distances, coach expenses and a level of competitive football, the benefit of which is questionable.

U-15 – Laune Rangers Bord na nOg is pleased that the Co. Bord na nOg continues an U-15 Co. competition on a championship basis, coming at the end of the season when that age-group is back to school. To run it on a knockout basis is sensible. While the competition is in place for a number of years, our club has certainly taken it more seriously over the past few years. 1998 saw us emerging as Co. U-15 Champions. We defeated Gaeltacht at Blennerville on Sat. 3^rd Oct. It was certainly one of the better games of football I, as Secretary, have seen this year. This final was a close and hard-fought encounter. It was neck and neck all the way, but in the end a barrage of scores from Laune Rangers saw us emerge victorious on the score of 3-7 to 1-7. Well done to all the players involved and to those in charge, Pat O Riordan, Pat Pigott, Peter Lyon and Jerome O Regan.

I must congratulate Aidan Lynch and Barry O Sullivan on being selected on the Kerry South team, which was defeated by Cork County in the Munster U-16 Football Final. Our U-14 players also took part in the Co. U-14 Championship, playing with Mid-Kerry and winning the county title. Laune Rangers contributed seven players to the team.

Finance – Laune Rangers Bord na nOg does not have its own finances nor does it have its won Treasurer. It is administered through the Treasury of the Senior Board. We are conscious of the cost of transport, distances have been referred to in this report, but we do make every attempt to pay our way. We have a three-year sponsorship deal with various sponsors that come to an end this year, and are now up for renewal and tender. We have, during the year, organised a special Bord na nOg draw, which was reasonably successful but could have been better promoted and sold by our U-16 and U-14 players. We take up our own independent Church Gate Collection and pay the proceeds over to the senior board.

Mention should be made of the fact that Tinryland of Co. Carlow (neighbours to Eire Og) sought a weekend with us at underage level in June. No doubt having heard tales of the great feats of the Laune Rangers footballers from their neighbours, Eire Og, they were anxious that their underage players should come here and experience it at first hand for themselves. They travelled with an U-14 squad and their adult mentors. It was decided that two games would be played, one on Saturday afternoon, June 12^th. They defeated an under-strength Laune Rangers team on the pitch at Cloon. There were whispers amongst the visiting young fellows that Laune Rangers Football was not all it was cracked up to be. That evening, I telephoned Patsy Joy and suggested we should not allow the visitors back to Carlow with the wrong impression. Patsy, there and then, decided we should pull out all the stops for the return game the following morning and it was done. At the JP O Sullivan Park on that Sunday morning, our U-14 team gave a display of exhibition football and left the Carlow mentors speechless. These Carlow players were hosted by parents in the club and we are very grateful for what they did. We are also grateful to Mike Hassett, Liam Hassett, Mike Frank Russell and Billy O Shea who came to the dressing-rooms and helped to raise the spirit of the Carlow players and their mentors by presenting each of them with a memorial plaque. We are now invited to pay a return visit to Carlow.

Scór – Laune Rangers were comprehensively represented in the Mid-Kerry Scór na nOg final in Beaufort. Once again under the guidance and overall management of Mary Clifford, Muingaphouca, they emerged as overall winners in four sections: Figure Dancing, Solo Singing, Instrumental Music and Ballad Group. They represented the club in the Co. Semi-final in Kenmare on Fri. 4^th Dec., where the Ballad Group and Instrumental Music Group qualified for the Co. Final. At the Co. Final of Scór held in Killarney, the Instrumental Music Group qualified as Co. Champions, in a very well deserved victory for this young group, many of whom have competed over many years in Scór na nOg  and have until now been denied the ultimate county glory. They went on to represent the club in Millstreet in the Munster semi-final and were unlucky not to get through to the Munster Final. This is the third year-in-a-row that Laune Rangers’ representatives have won a county title at Scor na nOg. Heartfelt thanks to all the young people who have represented Laune Rangers in this year’s Scor na nOg. They did the club proud in every stage of the competition.

In conclusion, I wish to thank all those who helped us and supported us during the year. It is with some emotion I record once again the sad death of Dermot Murphy of Caragh Lake. Dermot was one of those who had helped to capture the All-Ireland Féile title when he was fourteen, and achieved Co. League and Co. Championship medals as a minor. It is with strange feelings of the bitter sweet that, while remembering the fine football skill of the late Sean Evans and the carefree, committed way he applied it on the football field for the Laune Rangers, I must also reflect on his heroic struggle with illness. As my wife and I, Pat Pigott and his wife, Jenny, of a Sunday evening in July 1997, travelled on Houlihan’s Coach from Dublin with the U-14A squad, a Laune Rangers Dream Team if ever there was one, disappointed because they had been excluded from the All-Ireland Féile in Donegal, but full of life, vigour and devilment after a lovely weekend in Dublin, hosted by Round Towers Football Club, and as I sat with my wife, listening to Sean give a spirited rendition of ‘In Banbridge Town in the County Down’ over the coach microphone, little did I think that my 1998 Bord na nOg report to the Laune Rangers Club would include an obituary to his memory. I am confident that Divine Providence will ordain that Dermot and Sean have both moved on to a state of higher existence.”

 

The Annual Convention of the Mid-Kerry Board was held on Mon. 15^th Feb. 1999 at the Pavilion, Glenbeigh. The Secretary, Michael Healy, delivered the following report: “I have pleasure in presenting my report of Cumann Lúthchleas Gael in Mid-Kerry during 1998. The year under review saw the main prize of a Senior Co. Championship elude the Board teams but was highlighted by the retention of the Minor Co. Championship by Mid-Kerry. The low point of the year was the slow progress made in finalising our internal competitions.

Senior Championship

Mid-Kerry and Laune Rangers took part in the Co. Senior Championship. Mid-Kerry once again drew Dr. Crokes, one of the better teams of the last few years but, having beaten them the previous year, we were confident the players would put in a big effort and sustain our supremacy against such famed opposition. However, our preparations were anything but satisfactory. Having accepted the position of trainer, George McAuliffe was forced to step down for health reasons and replacing him provided the first serious headache for the new Chairman of the Board. We were grateful that Jeremiah Kerins finally accepted the position. The response from the players was very poor, however, and we entered the game more in hope than confidence with the selection of the team made more difficult through the absence of two of our influential players, John B. O Brien and Michael Burke, and the decision of another panellist not to attend. Dr. Crokes, as one would expect from a club team, started better and looked like they would over-run us in the early stages. However, there is no better motivator than Jeremiah and, with our lads starting to respond to his prompting, we were soon back in the game. In a thrilling second half, it was anybody’s game but Dr. Crokes got the rub of the green and just held out for the slimmest of victories. Considering the preparation that the players had put in, I suppose we got what we deserved.

As well as the two problems already mentioned, our early entry into the championship was no help either as many of our players were after completing exams prior to the game and were not mentally or physically ready for the challenge. At the end of the day, commitment to the jersey is important and, if players are unwilling to train, there is little anyone can do.

Laune Rangers struggled against Kenmare in the first round but comprehensively defeated St. Brendan’s in the quarter-final before being well beaten in the semi-final by St. Kieran’s.

U-21

Our preparations for this competition were even worse than for the Senior Championship, with many players at this level not available for one reason or another. We received a home draw against Co. Champions, Feale Rangers, and, on the night, we were lucky to field a team. However, those who did show up played with commendable spirit and, in a high scoring game, the concession of a few soft scores cost us dearly.

Laune Rangers defeated Shannon Rangers in the first round, Dr. Crokes in the quarter-final before being beaten by St. Kieran’s in the Co. Semi-final.

Minor

Mid-Kerry and Laune Rangers had teams in the Co. Minor Championship and Mid-Kerry were entering the competition in the unusual position of holders of the title. The trainers and selectors set about their task at an early stage and the draw, which paired Mid-Kerry against Laune Rangers in the first round, turned out to be a blessing in disguise, as the panel needed no greater motivation than to be playing their great rivals and school colleagues. I’m sure the same was true of the Laune Rangers’ camp.

A huge crowd turned up in Beaufort for the game and, in an electric atmosphere, Laune Rangers started the better and raced into an early lead. An injury to our captain, Eoin Flynn, seemed to galvanise our challenge and, inspired by Kerry minor panellists, Eugene Courtney, Sean O Sullivan and Kenneth O Connor, Mid-Kerry wore down their more youthful opponents and ran out comprehensive victors.

Inspired by that victory and with confidence in the camp high, one felt that it would take a great team to stop Mid-Kerry achieving two-in-a-row. We easily disposed of Kerins O Rahillys in the quarter-final and we now faced a fancied Feale Rangers team in the semi-final. We started poorly enough but, with our Kerry minors again leading by example and George McKenna an inspiring captain, we soon had our place booked in the final. West-Kerry were to be our final opponents and, having suffered many heart-breaking defeats against this opposition in the past, we knew that only a top-class performance would win the day. Once again our opponents started better but once Sean O Sullivan buried the ball in the West-Kerry net, we were on our way to an historic victory. I would like to thank everyone involved in this victory, the players for their great commitment throughout the campaign, the selectors Sean Foley, Michael O Toole and Jeremiah Kerins (who had the unique distinction of being involved with all the Mid-Kerry teams this year), coach and chief motivator Frank Walsh and, above all, a marvellous team manager, Tim Coffey, who has certainly made up for all the heart-breaking defeats of the past. I hope that these players, having experienced great success with Mid-Kerry, will continue to show great pride in the division and bring back more championships in the years ahead. With many of the panel underage again this year, three-in-a-row must be a great possibility.

Clubs

The clubs within the Board area also experienced mixed fortunes during the year in Co. Competitions. Laune Rangers, ‘in the process of team building’, will have been delighted to have retained their Co. League title and the Club Championship, which entitled them to represent Kerry once again at provincial level. Milltown/Castlemaine will be disappointed to have suffered relegation from Div. 1 in controversial circumstances and also made an early exit from the Intermediate Championship. Beaufort were unlucky not to be promoted and will be disappointed with their display in the Co. Junior Semi-final, the long delay certainly not helping. Keel had a great year, winning their division of the Co. League in style and just failing in the Novice Semi-final after a replay. Cromane will be pleased with their year, winning the Co. Novice ‘B’ Championship but they failed to get promoted. Glenbeigh/Glencar had what could be described as their ‘annus horribilus’ and can only improve bearing in mind the talent they have at their disposal. They did manage to retain their divisional status. Laune Rangers, also, won their division of the Co. Minor League, as did Glenbeigh/Glencar. Other clubs, also, had success at juvenile level and this augurs well for the clubs in the years ahead.

Fixtures

Within the Board area, a total of 42 games were played in senior and minor competitions and Bord na nOg ran seven competitions. As I said at the outset, the prolonged nature of finalising these competitions needs to be looked at, with a view to finalising them within a defined period of time. There was a good spread of winners in the competitions, with the return of Beaufort as championship winners after a sixteen-year gap being the highlight. It certainly made up for any disappointment they had at county level and was another great training feat for Tim Coffey. Milltown/Castlemaine winning their third minor championship in four years was, also, a notable achievement.

Results:

Winners                                    Runners-up                      Games played

SFC            Beaufort              Milltown/Castlemaine                        5

SFL            Laune Rangers    Milltown/Castlemaine                        8

O Sullivan Cup Beaufort       Milltown/Castlemaine                        4

Senior ‘B’ Championship Laune Rangers                 Milltown/Castlemaine                         14

MFC Milltown/Castlemaine  Beaufort                                                5

MFL        Beaufort                   Keel                                                6

 

Bord na nOg

U-16A                                    Laune Rangers                        Beaufort

U-16B                                    Laune Rangers                        Beaufort

U-16C                                    Keel                                    Cromane

U-14                                    Keel                                    Beaufort

U-14B                                    Beaufort                                    Keel

U-12A                                    Milltown/Castlemaine            Laune Rangers

U-12B                                    Milltown/Castlemaine            Glenbeigh/Glencar

 

National Schools

One Teacher Schools                        Kiltallagh

Two Teachers’ Schools                        Ballyfinnane

Three Teachers’ Schools                        Castledrum

4/5 Teachers’ Schools                        Kilgobnet

6+ Teachers’ Schools                        Milltown

 

A motion, which was passed last year, to introduce an U-21 Championship never got off the ground due to fixtures congestion and bad weather.

 

Administration

The Board held 10 meetings during the year and some of these were very poorly attended by officers and delegates. This situation is not good enough and is very frustrating when it comes to finalising fixtures and other matters relating to finances, etc. John Dowling, in his first year as Chairman, acquitted himself well and certainly gave every club a fair hearing. John P McCarthy did an excellent job as PRO and brought a freshness of approach to the role. Michael Carroll, also, did Trojan work in promoting the Board’s activities. Dan Carey, once again, proved himself ever willing and able to man our gates and keep the finances of the Board on an even keel. We must also try and find a more meaningful role for other officers in the years ahead because everyone has something to offer. All the clubs have a responsibility to ensure that we have a representative and active Board and they must actively encourage their members to get involved at District level.

Finances

The finances of the Board continue to be a matter of concern and, as the Balance Sheet will show later, the Board is just managing to meet its day-to-day needs. A good run in the Co. Championship would cause serious problems for the Board. I would like to thank the following sponsors without whose help the Board would be unworkable: Fexco, Bunker’s Bar & Restaurant, Peadar O Sullivan, Michael F. Quirke & Sons, Killorglin Credit Union, Cromane Seafoods, Mulvihill Pharmacy Ltd., J & M Oils, Pat Sheehan and Mike McCarthy and the following who donated trophies during the year – Pat O Shea, John Cahillane and Michael C. Ahern.

Bord na nOg

Bord na nOg was run by the Beaufort Club and I would like to thank the two people concerned, Noel Spillane and Mary Jo Coffey. The competitions ran very smoothly apart from the final stages of the U-16A competition. It is also very encouraging to see different clubs figuring in the winners’ enclosure.

The highlight of the year at this level was the winning of the U-14 Divisional Championship when a united Mid-Kerry showed what can be achieved when there is a unity of purpose. In a thrilling final, we proved too skilful for a more physical West-Kerry. I would like to thank the players for their commitment and congratulate them on their achievement. I would like to thank and congratulate John Cahillane and Pat Pigott, who managed the team and indeed all the individuals within the clubs who have been involved at this level.

Scór

As there was no interest shown by the clubs, Scór Sinsear was not held. Scór na nÓg was run by Beaufort Club and there was a good participation rate by clubs, with a big response from National School children. A new format needs to be found for these competitions if they are to have any real meaning for today’s more discerning teenagers and young adults.

Referees

I would like to thank all those who refereed games for the Board in the last year. They provide a vital link in the playing of our games and deserve to be respected by officials, players and supporters alike. A difficult job is often made more difficult by unwarranted abuse and ‘gamesmanship’. By and large our games are played in a very sporting manner in Mid-Kerry but I would be a little concerned by a few minor incidents, which happened at juvenile level. Clubs must be prepared to discipline from within and lay down the law from an early stage.

Congratulations

I would like to congratulate the following who did the Board proud during 1998:

1 Michael Francis Russell, Pa O Sullivan, John Sheehan, Ian Twiss and Mike Burke who won Munster and All-Ireland U-21 medals with Kerry.

2. Michael Francis Russell who won a Munster Senior Championship medal with Kerry.

3. Eugene Courtney, Sean O Sullivan and Kenneth O Connor who won Munster Minor Championship medals with Kerry.

4. Laune Rangers Scór na nÓg Quiz team who won All-Ireland honours in Athlone.

5. Jerome Conway, on his election as Vice-Chairman of Kerry Co. Board and Michael McCarthy and James Coffey on their re-election.

6. All the clubs who did well in the District and County competitions.

7. Schools who won or did well in competitions.

Buíochas

1. To the clubs for the use of their fields and facilities and their co-operation with fixtures.
2. To the trainers and selectors of our teams.
3. To our referees.
4. To the players for the continued enjoyment they give to so many people.
5. To our sponsors.
6. To the Media for their continued good coverage of our games.
7. To those who continue to support and patronise our games.
8. To Walsh O Sullivan for the use of their office equipment and to Gráinne for her secretarial skills.
9. My fellow officers for their help and encouragement.

Bereavements

During the year many Gaels from Mid-Kerry were called to their eternal reward, most notably our President, Murt Kelly, a man who had dedicated so much of his time to promoting our Association, our former PRO Christy O Riordan and some whose lives were just beginning but who had still left a great mark in our Association. We extend our deepest sympathies to the families of all bereaved in the last twelve months.

General

The GAA is at a cross-roads in its development and it now has to compete with many other pastimes for the hearts and minds of our youth. In this regard, we must not fear change but embrace it as another great challenge. We must, if necessary, alter our structures to give active, regular and meaningful competition to the majority of our players and so ensure their continued support. There is no point keeping 35 players idle for three or four weeks in the middle of the season for the benefit of one player, as can often be the case. We must become participant led and consumer friendly.

In this county, we must seriously consider our structures and, I believe, it is now time for meaningful debate on the role of clubs, District Boards and County Board on the best way forward. A realignment of District Boards so that all can have an equal number of participants and all of them are running similar competitions at similar times has to be considered. Too often in the past we have allowed our hearts to rule our heads when this motion has been debated. We should not shirk from bringing in outside help if an independent analysis is to be made. Just because a realignment takes place for competitions sake does not mean that existing Co. Championship grouping need to be altered but we must remember that it should be every club’s ambition to build itself into a unit capable of competing in the Co. Senior Championship in its own right.

For the New Year

1. That a Co. Senior Championship will come to Mid-Kerry once again. The talent is available, if they give the commitment.
2. That all our clubs will enjoy success at county level.
3. That our competitions can be finished within a defined period of time, especially our Minor and Senior Championships.
4. As I am stepping down as Secretary/Treasurer, I would like to thank everyone for their help and encouragement throughout the year. I’m sure that, with the help and support of the clubs, the incoming officers will enjoy a fruitful and rewarding year.

Mise le meas,

Mícheál Ó hÉalaithe.”