Laune Rangers – 2003
Laune Rangers, captained by Pa O Sullivan, retained the Mid-Kerry Senior Football Championship, winning it for the 25th time in total.
Laune Rangers, captained by Pa Sheehan, retained the Molyneaux Cup, winning it for the 8th time in total.
Laune Rangers won the Mid-Kerry U-14 Football Championship for the 28th time.
Laune Rangers retained the Mid-Kerry U-12 Football Championship, winning it for the 21st time in total.
Laune Rangers won the Co. Junior Hurling Championship for the first time.
Kerry defeated Limerick in the Munster Senior Football Final by 1-11 to 0-9.
James Coffey was re-elected as Joint-Treasurer of the Kerry Co. Board for the 31st successive year.
Jerome Conway was re-elected as Vice-Chairman of the Kerry Co. Board for the sixth successive year.
The ones that got away:
Laune Rangers were beaten, after a replay, in the Co. Senior Football Championship final for the third time (1910 and 1997) in their history, by An Ghaeltacht by 0-12 to 2-4.
Laune Rangers ‘C’ lost the Barrett Cup Final to Austin Stacks ‘C’ by 2-6 to 0-7.
Cromane defeated Laune Rangers ‘B’ in the final of the Mid-Kerry O Sullivan Cup on the score of 1-8 to 1-5.
Beaufort ‘B’ defeated Laune Rangers ‘B’ in the final of the Mid-Kerry ‘B’ Championship on the score of 0-9 to 0-4.
Kerins O Rahillys defeated Laune Rangers in the final of the Tralee District Board U-14 Football Championship.
Austin Stacks defeated Laune Rangers in the final of the Tralee District Board U-12 Championship by 3-7 to 0-6.
Kerry lost the Munster U-21 Football Final to Waterford by 2-8 to 1-9.
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Laune Rangers’ AGM was held in Scoil Mhuire on Sat. 14th Dec. 2002.
Chairman – John Clifford.
Secretary – John Griffin (elected at EGM on 12th Jan. 2003)
Joint Treasurers – Maurice Corkery and Edso Crowley (elected at EGM on 12th Jan.)
Registrars – Pat O Riordan, Pat O Shea and Johnny Galvin.
PRO – Michael O Shea.
Insurance Officer – Keith Bradburn (elected at EGM on 12th Jan.).
Development Officer – Jerry Coffey.
Scór Officer – Mary Clifford.
Delegate to Co. Board – James Ferris.
Senior Football Selection Committee – John Evans (trainer), John Griffin, Tom Johnston and John O Donnell.
‘B’ Team Selection Committee – Mike O Shea, Maurice Corkery, Joe Hayes and Dominic Crowley (elected at EGM on Sun. 12th March)
Munster Club Senior Football League
Rd. 1 on Sat. 15th Feb. at Cloon: Laune Rangers 0-9; Bishopstown 0-10.
The halftime score was 0-5 each.
Laune Rangers: Tony Lyons, Noel Lynch, Eoin Ferris, Conor Falvey, Terence Houlihan (0-1), Pa Murphy, Brendan Fitzgerald, Paul Costello, Pa O Sullivan (capt.), Seamie Foley, Gerry O Brien, Thomas McGillycuddy (0-1), Ross Sheehan (0-3), Barry O Sullivan (0-1), Colin O Connor (0-2). Subs: John E. Murphy (0-1) for T. McGillycuddy, Mark Conway for C. Falvey.
Rd. 2 on Sat. 1st March at Clyda: Clyda Rovers 0-10; Laune Rangers 1-16.
It was a tough first half, as both teams exchanged scores. Clyda led at halftime by 0-7 to 0-6, Rangers’ scores coming from Pa O Sullivan (0-3), Gerry O Brien (0-1), Barry O Sullivan (0-1) and Ross Sheehan (0-1). Rangers played better in the second half, especially in the last quarter, putting good moves together and taking the scores. They scored 1-10 in that half through Thomas McGillycuddy (0-2), Pa O Sullivan (0-2), Gerry O Brien (0-1), Brian Gannon (0-2), Seamus Foley (1-0), Barry O Sullivan (0-1), Ross Sheehan (0-1) and John O Sullivan (0-1). Clyda looked after the visitors well after the game with refreshments.
Laune Rangers: Tony Lyons, Noel Lynch, Eoin Ferris, Conor Falvey, Paul Costello, Pa Murphy, Terence Houlihan, Thomas McGillycuddy (0-2), Pa O Sullivan (0-5), Gerry O Brien (0-2), Brian Gannon (0-2), Seamie Foley (1-0), Cian Evans, Barry O Sullivan (0-2), Ross Sheehan (0-2). Subs: John O Sullivan (0-1) for G. O Brien, Paul O Connor for R. Sheehan.
Rd. 3 on Sat. 14th June at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 3-22; Clonmel Commercials 1-8.
Laune Rangers: Tony Lyons, Brendan Fitzgerald, Eoin Ferris, Pa Murphy, Terence Houlihan, Paul Costello (0-1), Karl Falvey (0-1), Adrian Hassett (1-2), Seamus Foley, Pa Sheehan (0-1), John Ahern (1-0), Gerry O Brien (0-3), Brian Gannon (1-10), Andrew O Regan (0-3), John E. Murphy (0-1). Subs: Redmond Fitzgerald for B. Fitzgerald, Shane O Sullivan for T. Houlihan.
Quarter-final on Sun. 28th Sept. at Clonakilty: Clonakilty 1-7; Laune Rangers 2-12.
The score at halftime was 1-6 to 0-3 in favour of the visitors, having had scores from Brian Gannon (1-1), Pa O Sullivan (0-3) and MF Russell (0-2). Laune Rangers doubled their scores in the second half.
Laune Rangers: Tony Lyons, Noel Lynch, Pa Murphy, Jerry Coffey, Paul Costello (0-1), John Sheehan, Shane O Sullivan, Adrian Hassett, Johnny Lynch, Seamus Foley (0-1), Liam Hassett (0-3), Gerry O Brien, Brian Gannon (1-1), Pa O Sullivan (0-4) capt, Mike Frank Russell (1-2). Subs: John E. Murphy for G. O Brien, Colin O Connor for B. Gannon, Terence Houlihan for P. Costello.
Semi-final on Sun. 14th Dec. at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 0-8; Austin Stacks 3-14.
As the score-line indicates, Stacks had matters virtually all their own way and were never seriously threatened by a Laune Rangers’ outfit that appeared totally at odds with their game. Indeed, only 14 Laune Rangers’ players had shown up in the dressing-room prior to the throw-in, a situation that meant that their manager, John Evans, put himself on standby to line out with his charges, but that situation was averted as another Laune Rangers’ player showed up just in time. Rangers were missing many of the players that had lost the county final replay against An Ghaeltacht, and among those absent were their Kerry trio Liam Hassett, Mike Frank Russell and John Sheehan. Regular goalkeeper Tony Lyons and Noel Lynch were also absent and, without virtually a fifth of their team, the Killorglin side were very disappointing and only Billy O Shea, Terence Houlihan, Brian Gannon and Pa O Sullivan played up to the required standard.
Stacks led from virtually the throw-in and were 2-3 to 0-2 ahead after 15 minutes thanks to cracking goals from Dara Long and Denis Sayers. Laune Rangers did look dangerous when they managed to get into space but the Stacks’ defence was alert to every breaking ball. Stacks continued to pile on the points and led at the break by 2-9 to 0-3, with Colin O Connor, Billy O Shea and Adrian Hassett finding the range for the home side.
Two minutes into the second half, the Rangers’ net was bulging for the third time as Martin McKivergan scored the third goal. Rangers were then 15 points adrift and there appeared no way back for them but, to their credit, they did manage to get one or two enterprising attacks going but Stacks goalkeeper, David Hennebery denied them with a number of well-timed saves. Stand-in Rangers’ goalkeeper, Shane Clifford, did manage to keep the score down with one or two saves of his own but, on the day, Stacks’ place in the final was decided well before the final whistle came. Rangers finished well but points by Brian Gannon (2) and Pa O Sullivan only served to put a better look on what was a very one-sided score-board.
Laune Rangers: Shane Clifford, Brendan Fitzgerald, Eoin Ferris, Shane O Sullivan (0-1), Paul O Connor, Paul Costello, Terence Houlihan, Adrian Hassett (0-1), Seamus Foley, Jerry O Brien, Billy O Shea (0-2), Colin O Connor (0-1), Brian Gannon (0-2), Pa O Sullivan (0-1), Cian Foley.
Ref: Johnny Cahill (Rathmore).
Co. Senior Football Championship
20 teams took part in the Co. Senior Football Championship: Shannon Rangers, Feale Rangers, Austin Stacks, Kerins O Rahillys, John Mitchels, St. Kieran’s, St. Brendan’s, West-Kerry, An Ghaeltacht, Mid-Kerry, Laune Rangers, South-Kerry, Kenmare, East-Kerry, Dr. Crokes, Desmonds, Rathmore, Listowel Emmett’s, Kilcummin and Glenflesk.
Rd. 1 on Sat. 24th May at Lewis Road: Dr. Crokes 2-7; Laune Rangers 2-13.
Timmy Sheehan reported on the game in the Kerryman as follows: “Mike Frank Russell’s unerring returns from placed balls and Colin O Connor’s prolific returns from play were the reasons why Laune Rangers safely negotiated this first hurdle in the AIB county senior football championship against a wasteful Dr. Crokes outfit in Lewis Road last Saturday evening. Without the injured Colm Cooper, for the entire game, and Eoin Brosnan, for all of the second half, the local side struggled regularly to find the target in attack, and missed quite a number of what could be termed relatively easy frees. If Cooper had been available, the result could well have been an awful lot different and, even without him, Crokes had the opportunities to turn the tide in their favour, but couldn’t match Russell’s scoring average at the other end. In addition, the visitors, whose application was admirable, struck for crucial goals at opportune times in the first half when they were facing the stiffish breeze.
James Jones, with a point from play in the second minute, opened Crokes’ account and, after the excellent Kieran Cremin had denied Brian Gannon with a superb stop one minute later, Colin O Connor shot the equalising point in the ensuing play. For a period, both sides were guilty of an over-indulgence in hand-passing, especially in defence, and certainly for long periods the contest, as a spectacle, was extremely sub-standard. Having missed two frees from reasonable positions, Mike Crowley edged Crokes in front from a placed ball after 11 minutes. The same player, with a gilt-edged goaling chance two minutes later, was denied by an excellent save from goalkeeper Tony Lyons and another pointed free from Crowley, doubled Crokes’ advantage by the end of the opening quarter – 0-3 to 0-1. Rangers, under pressure in their own half, struggled to initiate any type of flow to their play but, with 17 minutes having elapsed, the resourceful Colin O Connor punished a defensive error and narrowed the gap to the bare minimum.
A minute later, the visitors were in front when Jerry O Brien crashed home a splendid goal after John Lynch had carved out the opportunity for him. Aidan O Shea had a magnificent score from a sideline kick and Mike F. Russell, with the first of seven pointed frees, swapped scores at opposite ends and with Hassett, Lynch, Sheehan and O Shea all linking the play quite efficiently, Rangers exerted a grip on matters for a period, but failed to increase their two-point advantage (1-3 to 0-4). Eoin Brosnan (free) narrowed the margin five minutes before the break and, almost immediately, Mike Crowley’s powerful drive ended up in the roof of the net, from a narrow angle (1-5 to 1-3). With Keith McMahon and Batt Moriarty defending with a lot of determination, Crokes had regained the momentum, but suffered a severe setback in the 23rd minute when John Sheehan, inside the defensive cover, availed of Mike Frank Russell’s pinpoint pass and finished to the net from close range. It afforded Rangers a one-point interval lead (2-3 to 1-5) against a Crokes outfit whose first half tally of seven wides ultimately proved significant.
Eoin Brosnan did not reappear for the second half. A defensive lapse almost gifted Colin O Connor a goal after just two minutes but the referee whistled back the advantage and Mike Frank Russell kicked over the resultant free. Midfielder Kieran Brosnan replied with a Crokes’ point two minutes later. Indeed Crokes had chances to level matters. However, Rangers were always able to respond whenever their lead was threatened and points from Russell, from long range, and Jerry O Brien, after Terence Houlihan’s quick thinking had provided the opening, extended the visitors’ lead to a goal after 38 minutes, 2-6 to 1-6. After Crokes had failed with a simple opportunity from a free in front of goal, Rangers, with a sweeping movement end-to-end, consolidated their situation, when Colin O Connor, with clinical efficiency, kicked over the seventh point in the 40th minute. Russell (free) and Gannon from play extended that lead to six points (2-9 to 1-6) coming up to the end of the third quarter, but Crowley’s second goal, kicked in from close range, after some poor defending had afforded him the opportunity, provided the Black and Amber brigade with a much-needed lifeline.
However, Rangers, who used the long ball to extremely beneficial effect in the second half, very nearly capitalised with a third goal but Brian Gannon’s clear-cut opportunity from close range came back off the butt of the upright. Aidan O Shea with a pointed free kept Crokes in touch. Mike Frank Russell, with another superb score from the 45m line and a magnificent effort from almost 60m, pushed the lads from the Laune firmly back in the driving seat and it was fitting that Colin O Connor, from play, and Russell, with his seventh pointed free, should seal the victory in the dying minutes. With limited possession at times, Rangers certainly utilised their chances to maximum effect. They displayed a lot of resolve and defended with determination and in numbers for long periods of the first half. Forced to chase the game in the second half, Crokes left a lot of gaps at the back and Rangers exploited this situation with telling effect on quite a number of occasions. John Evans will, I would think, be reasonably happy with his side’s performance, even if some improvement is required, if they are to challenge for the championship crown.”
Laune Rangers: Tony Lyons, Jerry Coffey, Eoin Ferris, Noel Lynch, Terence Houlihan, Paul Costello, Shane O Sullivan, Johnny Lynch, John Sheehan (1-0), Billy O Shea, Liam Hassett, Jerry O Brien (1-1), Brian Gannon (0-1), Mike Frank Russell (0-7, frees), Colin O Connor (0-4). Subs: Pa Murphy for T. Houlihan, Seamus Foley for J. O Brien, Mark Conway, John E. Murphy, Shane Clifford, Karl Falvey, Pa Sheehan, Brendan Fitzgerald. Pa O Sullivan injured his ankle in training prior to the game and was unable to play.
Ref: Tommy Sugrue (St. Pat’s, Blennerville).
Rd. 2 on Sun. 20th July at Tarbert: Shannon Rangers 0-8; Laune Rangers 0-10.
Seamus O Neill reported in the Kerryman as follows: “As expected, Laune Rangers won their place in the quarter-finals of the AIB Co. Senior Football Championship when they defeated Shannon Rangers at Tarbert on Sunday evening – but what a fright they got! They had to call on all their experience to overcome a gallant Shannon Rangers side which showed great commitment and courage throughout the game before going out of the competition on a final score of 0-10 to 0-8.
Laune Rangers, it must be said, were the better team and their teamwork and ability to find a colleague was superior to their opponents. They also had the three Kerry players, Liam Hassett, Mike Frank Russell and John Sheehan in their ranks and they certainly made their presence felt. Liam Hassett, in particular, was outstanding. He kicked three excellent points from play and his overall display was remarkable, as he often foraged back to lend a hand in defence and midfield when his side was under pressure. Mike Frank was at odds with his kicking, especially in the first half, when he registered a few uncharacteristic wides from frees and from play. He had a great second half though, and his point from play in the 55th minute was a beauty. John Sheehan, though not as prominent as his colleagues, got through an amount of work in defence and came up-field to kick a very good point early in the second half.
Overall, this was a most enjoyable game, especially when it came to life in the second half. All through the first half the large crowd was very quiet and, even though Shannon Rangers were acquitting themselves well, the expectation was there that Laune Rangers would soon take total control. When that didn’t materialise and the boys from the Laune only led by a single point at the break, 0-4 to 0-3, the local supporters found their voices in the second half and provided a great atmosphere. Unfortunately, the weather changed in this half and the final quarter was played in torrential rain and the excellent Tarbert pitch became like a skating rink with players slipping all over the place.
Laune Rangers began the game impressively but the efforts by Mike Frank Russell sailed wide and Shannon Rangers laid down an early marker when Darragh Lanigan kicked their opening score in the third minute. Laune Rangers were winning lots of possession but were finding it difficult to get through a very solid Shannon defence, with Deo O Connor, Stevie Deenihan and Daithi Donegan being particularly prominent. Their shooting though was also off target. They opened their account in the 12th minute when Mike Frank Russell pointed a free for a foul on Liam Hassett. Two wides by Colin O Connor and Brian Gannon for the Laune were soon followed by a point by Gerry O Brien to put them in front for the first time and they were never again in arrears for the rest of the game.
Following O Brien’s point, Shannon Rangers came back immediately and Paul O Hanlon found Gary O Brien, who levelled the scores with a fine point. A foul on John Sheehan brought a free to Laune Rangers, which Mike Frank Russell pointed and, for the next ten minutes or so, there was stalemate as neither side could get on the score-board. The North-Kerry men enjoyed a large slice of luck in the 25th minute when a powerful kick for a goal by Mike Frank Russell saw the ball rebound back into play off the base of the upright and eventually went out for a ‘45’. This was taken by Russell but it fell short and the ball was cleared. The absence of scores brought about a total lack of excitement and the standard of play also left much to be desired. With three minutes remaining in the half, Liam Hassett, though under severe pressure, scored a smashing point for Laune Rangers. This was soon cancelled out at the other end when a long delivery from Paddy Kelly found Kieran Mulvihill who kicked a brilliant point. At halftime Laune Rangers led by 0-4 to 0-3 and, with the wind at their backs in the second half, one felt that Shannon Rangers had shot their bolt.
But the Shannon boys had a different idea and, within two minutes, were on level terms when Liam Boyle finished a good passing movement with a very good point. Liam Hassett’s strength paid dividends a minute later when he won possession out near the sideline and forced his way through to kick a great point with a defender hanging on to him. Almost immediately, Mike Frank Russell scored his third point from a free and, when he put John Sheehan through for a point soon after, Laune Rangers were three points in front, 0-7 to 0-4, and one felt that the expected takeover was about to materialise. But it was then that the Shannon Rangers showed their mettle and within a minute they had pulled a point back when a high ball was tapped down by sub Timmy Foley to Kieran Mulvihill, who put it over the bar. Liam Hassett kicked his third point from play in the 41st minute to put Laune Rangers three points ahead again (0-8 to 0-5) and a couple of minutes afterwards came the torrential downpour.
Shannon Rangers were full of fight and made light of the conditions as they took the game to their more fancied opponents. Kieran Mulvihill, who was a thorn in Laune Rangers’ side all through, passed to Eoin O Connell who kicked a good point and, when Mulvihill himself pulled on a loose ball to score another point, there was just a single point separating the sides, 0-8 to 0-7. Were we about to see an upset? Anything was possible in the dreadful conditions. But it was not to be and Laune Rangers’ experience at that stage began to tell. Though under severe pressure, they never panicked. A foul on Liam Hassett brought a free, which Russell pointed and when the same player soon after kicked his first point from play, Laune Rangers’ three-point lead was restored. Kerry minor, Barry O Grady, who had come on as a sub, pulled a point back for Shannon Rangers with four minutes remaining and, even though play went from end to end, there was no further score. Along with their Kerry players already mentioned, others who played well for Laune Rangers were John Lynch, Billy O Shea, Adrian Hassett, Shane O Sullivan and goalie Tony Lyons, who brought off a great save from Paul O Hanlon early in the second half.”
Laune Rangers: Tony Lyons, Noel Lynch, Eoin Ferris, Pa Murphy, John Sheehan (0-1), Paul Costello, Shane O Sullivan, John Lynch, Adrian Hassett, Billy O Shea, Liam Hassett (0-3), Gerry O Brien (0-1), Brian Gannon, Mike Frank Russell (0-5. 4 frees), Colin O Connor. Subs: Seamus Foley for B. Gannon, John Edmund Murphy for C. O Connor, Brendan Fitzgerald for S. O Sullivan, Jerry Coffey for B. Fitzgerald. Pa O Sullivan was still unable to play in that game, due to injury.
Ref: Michael O Donoghue (Glenflesk).
Quarter-final on Sat. 6th Sept. at Austin Stack Park: Laune Rangers 1-11; West-Kerry 1-9.
John O Dowd reported in the Kerryman on the game as follows: “Coming from behind seems to be the thing to do in this year’s AIB Co. SFC quarter-finals and, on Saturday evening, it was the turn of Laune Rangers to produce a fine, spirited recovery after an absolutely awful start to their entertaining encounter with West-Kerry. Stunned by a Tommy Griffin goal after only 22 seconds, John Evans’ men found themselves five points adrift after only ten minutes (1-2 to 0-0) and, though they had reduced the margin slightly by the halftime interval (1-4 to 0-3), they looked an outfit devoid of imagination and seemingly on their way to a feeble exit from the competition.
However, whatever was said in the dressing-room certainly paid dividends as the Killorglin men were a transformed side on the resumption and, within five minutes of the second period, a brilliant Brian Gannon goal had the protagonists level and, after Billy O Shea quickly shot the winners into the lead (1-6 to 1-5), they were never to trail again. West-Kerry managed to draw level three times in an exciting last quarter but late points from Seamus Foley and O Shea ensured that the Killorglin men advanced to the semi-finals while their opponents were left to reflect on what went wrong in the second 30 minutes. A draw probably would have been the fairest result and the losers definitely weren’t helped by some very poor refereeing decisions in the last ten minutes or so but West-Kerry can only blame themselves for losing control of the match as their terribly slow build-up after the break played into the hands of Rangers and certainly didn’t benefit Genie Farrell, who was starved of possession when his side needed him most.
Laune Rangers also won because, in midfielder Johnny Lynch, they had the best player on the field and he was really the man who rescued what seemed to be a lost cause for the 1996 All-Ireland champions. Lynch, with the workmanlike Liam Hassett, completely dominated around the centre of the park and neither Jim Kelliher nor Tommy Griffin was able to do anything about it. Substitute Emmett Kennedy really improved things for the divisional side in the last 20 minutes but Lynch was not to be denied and he, more than anybody else, is the reason why Rangers are now in the last four.
Such an outcome was not likely as West-Kerry made a blistering start and they carved open their opponents’ citadel right from the throw-in. Neil Sheehy, Tommy Griffin, Breandán Hanafin, Genie Farrell and Jamie O Driscoll were all involved in the build-up and Griffin, who had continued a forward run, was on hand to beat Tony Lyons easily from close range. What a magnificent fillip for the westerners and points from Genie Farrell (free) and Hanafin had Laune Rangers in big trouble by the 11th minute. Jim Kelliher was operating well as a kind of a sweeper in the halfback line while the diminutive Farrell was showcasing all his talents up front, despite being confronted by the tigerish marking qualities of Noel Lynch. Laune Rangers were in disarray, though Gerry O Brien got them off the mark in the 14th minute with a fine left-footed point but there was no immediate end to the Killorglin agony as Genie Farrell was on the mark with two more scores (including a fabulous effort from play) and the winners were six points down (1-4 to 0-1) by the 20th minute. That Farrell point summoned the end of the West-Kerry dominance as John Lynch set about his task at midfield with great aplomb. Despite his great work, the scores would not come as Liam Hassett made a surging run but was bottled up, Colin O Connor fluffed a goal chance and, uncharacteristically, Mike Frank Russell shot three wides in quick succession from decent attacking positions. Russell did point two frees before the break and almost set up a goal opportunity from Brendan Fitzgerald, up from corner-back, but Rangers still had to settle for a four-point deficit at the break.
John Evans obviously used the superiority of the final ten minutes as his motivation at halftime and Laune Rangers could sense that the game was there for them, if they could get their act together and sustain it through the second period. Pa O Sullivan was introduced at full-forward and his strength and free-taking ability was to prove another important factor in the turnaround. It was that man John Lynch, with the first point of the second half, who showed the leadership that his team needed. Though Hanafin responded with an excellent point at the other end, Mike Frank Russell hit over a beauty for Rangers and then came the goal in the 35th minute that instilled real self-belief into the winners. Jerry Coffey, Russell and Paul Costello were all involved and when Brian Gannon, who looked sharp all night long, received the ball close to goal, nobody doubted that he would beat Diarmuid Murphy and find the back of the net. Two points soon followed for the Killorglin men (including one from a very debatable free) ad West-Kerry were in trouble, trailing by 1-7 to 1-5.
The Westerners were now living off scraps around midfield, their corner-backs were fouling a lot and they could not get the ball up to Genie Farrell, who was growing more frustrated by the minute. Saying that, the divisional side showed great heart and Jack Ferriter (who should have started) and Sean ‘Fox’ Farrell (‘45’), after Hanafin had been foiled of a goal by Tony Lyons, soon had the game back in the balance again entering the last quarter. It was tit-for-tat over the next ten minutes with Laune Rangers going in front twice and West-Kerry always coming back with a reply at the opposite end to leave the contest on a knife-edge (1-9 each) by the 55th minute. It was now anybody’s game. A West-Kerry player critically lost possession in the next passage of play and Seamus Foley pointed and, when ‘Fox’ Farrell was narrowly wide with another ‘45’ in injury-time, Billy O Shea put the seal on Rangers’ victory with the final score of the game after Pa O Sullivan had got away with a blatant push on his opponent.
So, Laune Rangers are now in the semi-final and they will feel deservedly because of their second-half performance. When they had to battle, they certainly did and that will have heartened John Evans, though, like his South and Mid-Kerry counterparts, he will not be expecting his team to be so slow to get out of the blocks in their next match. On the night, John Lynch was the man-of-the-match, while others to perform well were Noel Lynch, Paul Costello, Billy O Shea, Liam Hassett, Brian Gannon, Seamus Foley, Mike Frank Russell (in patches) and substitute Pa O Sullivan.”
Laune Rangers: Tony Lyons, Brendan Fitzgerald, Noel Lynch, Eoin Ferris, Paul Costello, John Sheehan, Jerry Coffey, Johnny Lynch (0-1), Liam Hassett, Billy O Shea (0-2), Mike Frank Russell (0-3, 2 frees), Gerry O Brien (0-1), Brian Gannon (1-0), Seamus Foley (0-1), Colin O Connor. Subs: Pa O Sullivan (0-3, frees) for C. O Connor, Pa Murphy for E. Ferris, John Edmond Murphy for G. O Brien, Adrian Hassett for P. Murphy. Blood sub: Pa Murphy for P. Costello.
Ref: Denis O Donovan (Desmonds).
Semi-final on Sun. 21st Sept. at Fitzgerald Stadium: Laune Rangers 1-8; South-Kerry 0-9.
John O Dowd reported in the Kerryman as follows: “With five minutes left in this AIB Co. SFC semi-final, Laune Rangers were totally on the rack. They had virtually abandoned any attacking tendencies and were simply determined to hang on to their narrow two-point advantage. On the other hand, South-Kerry piled forward at ever opportunity, monopolising possession, and creating plenty of chances. They should have got a draw and could even have won but, at the end, they were left to rue some terrible misses (five in the closing stages), and a tally of nine second-half wides to none for the opponents tells its own story. While this squander-mania was a key factor in the demise of the divisional side, Laune Rangers can point to John Sheehan’s goal two minutes into the second period and their early creation of three excellent goaling chances as reasons why they deserved to advance to the show-piece occasion of Kerry club football on October 12.
Sheehan’s goal was, indeed, the crucial score of a hard-fought if uninspiring contest. The Kerry defender, who had notched a marvellous point in the first half, took advantage of good build-up play from Mike Frank Russell and Seamus Foley and, having not been tracked back by Maurice Fitzgerald, the Killorglin man had no problem in beating Mark Drummond from close range. That vital three-pointer gave John Evans’ men the cushion that they required and, by the 47th minute, they were four points clear (1-8 to 0-7) and looking pretty comfortable. However, they retreated into a defensive shell as South-Kerry threw everything at them, with the last nine attacks all coming from the losers. Agonisingly for their supporters, they only added points from John Shanahan and Maurice Fitzgerald as Ronan O Connor (2), Aidan O Sullivan, Declan O Sullivan (2), Fitzgerald and Stephen O Sullivan were all woefully off target and Laune Rangers survived to make it an all-club decider and render the senior club championship meaningless for the rest of the year.
The Killorglin men enjoyed a slender lead at the break (0-5 to 0-4) but, realistically, they could have been out of sight if they hadn’t made a mess of three fantastic opportunities of raising the green flag. Lovely play from Pa O Sullivan and Billy O Shea put Mike Frank Russell in on goal in the fifth minute and, unbelievably, the Kerry attacker drove the ball low and wide when he seemed destined to find the back of the net. Then, eight minutes later, Brian Gannon could have pointed but, instead, found Colin O Connor and his low left-footed effort trickled wide of Drummond’s left-hand post – another big let-off for South-Kerry. In the 19th minute, the divisional side was, once again, left off the hook when a speculative delivery by Paul Costello was gathered by Russell who thundered away from Adrian O Connell but was denied by a very brave stop from the South-Kerry net-minder. Would Laune Rangers pay for those misses? Thanks to John Sheehan and the South-Kerry radar, they didn’t.
South-Kerry got off to the better start and began putting some very incisive moves together. Two superb pieces of dead-ball artistry from Maurice Fitzgerald (including a sideline special) and a point from play by Declan O Sullivan (his only score of the game) had the Southerners 0-3 to 0-1 ahead by the tenth minute. Despite losing Billy O Shea to an ankle injury, Laune Rangers steadily imposed themselves on proceedings with John Lynch and Liam Hassett getting through an amount of work at midfield and Seamus Foley always showing himself up front and, with Gannon and Sheehan hitting a couple of inspirational scores, they managed to get their noses in front at halftime.
On the resumption came Sheehan’s match-winning goal and South-Kerry were always chasing the game after that. Initially, Rangers were quite composed with Noel Lynch keeping a tight rein on Declan O Sullivan, Sheehan moving forward at every opportunity and substitute Adrian Hassett helping out his colleagues at midfield. South-Kerry did respond and John Shanahan and Ronan O Connor narrowed the margin to two points (1-5 to 0-6) after 37 minutes. The winners refused to panic and Colin O Connor and John Lynch soon added points before Maurice Fitzgerald and Mike Frank Russell (his only score) exchanged pointed frees to leave Laune Rangers four points up entering the last 13 minutes. Then came the complete South-Kerry dominance already described but they completely failed to make their territorial supremacy count and they was made to pay a heavy price.
So, Laune Rangers are back in the county final for the first time since 1997 and, while they have yet to really impress people, they are showing an admirable doggedness and refusal to accept defeat that they will certainly need when they come up against An Ghaeltacht. John Evans and his players can be well pleased with their progress this season and, with the experience and tradition in the club, they will have to be respected in the final. On the day, John Sheehan’s goal was hugely vital to the eventual outcome and he did a decent job on Maurice Fitzgerald, limiting him to only one point from open play. Of the other Kerry contingent, Liam Hassett put in a typically workmanlike display at midfield but Mike Frank Russell is still not back to his old self and he will be disappointed with his misses in the first half. Elsewhere, Noel Lynch, Paul Costello, John Lynch, Seamus Foley, Pa O Sullivan and substitute Adrian Hassett were all quite prominent at different stages.”
John Sheehan was the man-of-the-match and was awarded Sport-star of the week by Kerry’s Eye newspaper for his performance.
Laune Rangers: Tony Lyons, Brendan Fitzgerald, Eoin Ferris, Noel Lynch, Paul Costello, John Sheehan (1-1), Jerry Coffey, Johnny Lynch (0-1), Liam Hassett, Brian Gannon (0-1), Billy O Shea, Seamus Foley, Mike Frank Russell (0-1, free), Pa O Sullivan (0-3, 2 frees) capt., Colin O Connor (0-1). Subs: Adrian Hassett for B. O Shea (inj.), Gerry O Brien for C. O Connor.
Ref: Tom Lynch (Kerins O Rahillys).
John O Dowd previewed the final in the Kerryman as follows: “With both An Ghaeltacht and Laune Rangers extremely lucky to make their way to Sunday’s AIB Co. Senior Football Championship final at Austin Stack Park, the question now going through the minds of their respective supporters is – who will make the most of their good fortune? An Ghaeltacht and Laune Rangers both sat back on leads going into the final quarter and, only for pathetic shooting from South-Kerry and a controversial red-card for Mid-Kerry, the outcome of both matches could have been so, so, different. Fergal Ó Sé is not in the least surprised that the Killorglin men are in the final. ‘They have been well prepared by John Evans, who has been around the block a long time and has previously trained them to county championships and an All-Ireland club title. So, he knows what it’s all about.’
Laune Rangers’ trainer, John Evans, could not have expected to be in this position so soon after taking over the reins at the club when they were down in Division Two of the Co. League last year. ‘Yeah, we’re surprised and delighted to be in the final. When I went back to Laune Rangers, the priority was to try and get back to Division One and win the Mid-Kerry Championship. The real downer was An Ghaeltacht beating us in the club championship by 12 points. Still, it was all about progressing the team along,’ he said.
Now the Killorglin men find themselves in the county final for the first time in six years and, of the popular view that the team has yet to hit the heights, Evans states, ‘In the back of their minds, that is the view of the Laune Rangers of old. However, this is a new team and they don’t know what their levels are. I’ve just asked them to keep jumping the next fence and that’s what they have done. I suppose we are going into the unknown now. That’s the imponderable and can’t be quantified yet. Saying that, a few wins always bring along a team. There’s no point in losing the run of yourself but it’s been an experience that the lads dug out a two-point win over Shannon Rangers, then a two-point win over West-Kerry and then the very same over South-Kerry. Winning does become a habit,’ added Evans.
Triumphing in three very tight encounters shows that this Laune Rangers team has bundles of character. It is something that the manager always demands. ‘One of the primary criteria of any team that I have been associated with is to stay in there to the finish. One day it’s Mike Frank Russell, John Sheehan or Liam Hassett that’s dug us out, the next time, it’s somebody else.’ What of South-Kerry in the semi-final? ‘We were tactically cuter on the day. They are a divisional side, so it took them a while to settle. They probably could have put us away in the first five minutes of the game or the last five minutes but I felt that we were in control for the other 50. There are a lot of young fellows in the Laune Rangers’ team now and there is a learning curve involved. For the most experienced team in the world, you ask do they have the legs and the fight? Young fellows, on the other hand, have that, but do they have the heads?’ asked the Laune Rangers’ supremo.
Of the last fifteen minutes where South-Kerry came on strong, Evans was pleased that his players never made the shooting opportunities easy for their opponents and that it was sheer pressure from the divisional team that forced Rangers to retreat. The Killorglin side suffered a real blow in that game with Billy O Shea being forced off in the first half with an ankle injury. At this stage, he is very doubtful for Sunday. ‘Billy is quite a worry as he hasn’t kicked a ball since and is still having treatment on the ankle. As well as that, Brian Gannon picked up an injury down in Clonakilty last week and Brendan Fitzgerald has a problem with his hand. Both of them should be OK though.’
Can Laune Rangers do it? ‘Things will want to go very right for us if we are to upset the applecart. The players know there is an awesome task ahead of us. It looks like climbing Mount Everest but we will certainly do the best we can and lady-luck might shine on us on the day,’ concluded Evans.
Laune Rangers have surpassed most people’s expectations in getting this far and they have shown a resolution and a refusal to even countenance defeat that is very admirable. They are not going in on Sunday to make up the numbers, you can be sure of that. In my opinion, their strongest area in recent games has been at midfield where John Lynch and Liam Hassett have got a very decent partnership going. Lynch is a fine fielder, while Hassett’s work-rate can never be questioned. If Darragh Ó Sé is not able to fully express himself, then Rangers can win this important sector. Elsewhere, Noel Lynch and John Sheehan have been defending tremendously well but can they get the better of the McGearailt’s and Ó Cinnéide? Billy O Shea’s injury is a real worry to John Evans up front because his darting presence and eager-beaver style will be important against such a rampaging presence as Tomás Ó Sé. In the inside line, Mike Frank Russell has been well below par for a good few months now and, obviously, the serious groin operation that he had at the start of the year is still impacting on his performances. His team requires a virtuoso Russell display on Marc Ó Sé on Sunday.”
The betting with bookmaker, Kieran Bourke, was Gaeltacht at 4/6 and Laune Rangers at 11/10.
John O Dowd visited a Laune Rangers’ training session prior to the final and reported as follows: “There may be a feeling around the Laune Rangers camp that progression to this year’s county senior football final has come about somewhat early in this young team’s development but, on the other hand, you can rest assured that now they are there, they will be doing everything in their power to lift the Bishop Moynihan Cup on Sunday. Club secretary and team selector, John Griffin, would concur with that assessment. ‘It’s a great feeling for me, having been involved last time out as a selector too. It is maybe a bit earlier than we expected but we’re there now and we’re definitely going to enjoy it,’ he said. ‘John Evans has been a big influence in all of it. His standing within the club is well heralded and he commands great respect from the players. He’s a big bonus for us going into the game.’ Is Griffin surprised to be in this situation? ‘I wouldn’t say that we are surprised ourselves as a management team because we always knew what the players were capable of. The question was whether we would be able to get it out of them this early.’ That has been achieved as Dr. Crokes, Shannon Rangers, West-Kerry and South-Kerry have found to their cost this season. The last three matches have been won by two points, so is it a case of winning without really impressing? ‘If we win the next one by two points, we won’t be complaining! Yes, we have dug out results and the part we’re most happy with is that we haven’t had easy games. Every match has been a struggle as such but we’ve got there and held out in the end and we’re quite happy with the progress,’ added Griffin. The club secretary says that it’s ‘so far so good’ for all the young players on the team and that Sunday’s opponents are going to be formidable. ‘Everybody knows how good An Ghaeltacht are. They have been the top team in the county for the last three, four, five years. However, no more than Laune Rangers were in the 1990’s, they are there to be hit.’
Fellow selector John O Donnell also appreciates why some people are surprised with the team’s championship odyssey this year. ‘We’re not surprised ourselves although it is probably a couple of years too early in that we have a very young team and haven’t done much yet,’ he said. ‘We’re delighted to be here because it hasn’t happened for seven years and very few of the lads that were on the team then are still there now. It’s a big bonus that some guys, whom we have only brought into the panel this year, have formed a big part of our plans.’ Has the team hit the heights yet? ‘You have to win to progress. We’re not really worried how we get there as long as we keep grinding out the results. A lot of people have said that we haven’t played well but, by our own standards, we have been improving steadily over the past three years. It’s as good to win by two points as it is by ten,’ emphasised O Donnell. Despite the public perception that a team is defined by its inter-county stars, the Laune Rangers’ selector plays down the overall role of Messrs. Russell, Hassett and Sheehan. ‘They are no more important than the rest of the team. They have come back to us and have added a lot since they started training again. Their experience helps and the fact that they have been through it all before. As part of the squad their influence is important, but not as individual players themselves.’ As Mid-Kerry showed in the semi-final, An Ghaeltacht are not unbeatable but, as O Donnell agrees, they aren’t the bookies’ favourites for nothing. ‘They are definitely the team to beat. They have done it before and they have the added experience over our lads. We know that its going to be uphill all the way to try and overcome them. We will just have to do more of the same and grind out another result. We must close down every one of their players and fight as we have fought so far on our way to the final,’ added O Donnell.
Selector Tom Johnston is pleased that the effort put in by the players, and the management has now been rewarded with the place in Sunday’s big showpiece. ‘If you’re involved with a team, you always expect them to perform well and we seem to have done that on every occasion this year and now we’re there in the final,’ he said. While not agreeing with the county championship format that left Laune Rangers go a full two months between the first and second matches, Johnston feels that the bigger problem for the club is inter-county activity. ‘The format hasn’t helped but the bigger problem seems to be missing county players from training for a lot of the summer. Since all of the panel has got back together, there has been a better buzz around training. Looking at our displays, I would say that there is definitely room for improvement, but winning three tight games like we did shows a good fighting ability and that’s all you want to see. If we only win by one point in the final, then we will be more than happy,’ stated Johnston. What about An Ghaeltacht? ‘Mid-Kerry did put it up to them in the last quarter of the semi-final and, with a bit of luck, could have beaten them. Maybe An Ghaeltacht had another gear, we don’t know, but they didn’t seem to have it that day.’
One of the undoubted trump cards in the Killorglin line-up is Mike Frank Russell, who will probably line out at full-forward where he will be policed by Marc Ó Sé. The gifted attacker takes us through the development of the current side. ‘There was a great period here from about 1993 to 1997 and that team went after that. Good players like Joe Shannon, Gerard Murphy and others were coming to the end of their careers,’ he said. ‘After that, there was a valley period but then James Sheehan took over the team and did some very good work bringing a lot of young players through. Of course, it wasn’t going to happen overnight for us and it’s this year, under John Evans, that the likes of Noel Lynch and Seamus Foley are coming to fruition. We just had to be patient,’ added Russell. Of the four championship obstacles they have surmounted, the Kerry forward pays particular importance to the opening round triumph over Dr. Crokes on their own patch in Killarney. ‘Getting over Crokes, who have always been one of our bogey teams, put a lot of belief into us that we could go further. Maybe we haven’t played to our best yet but, hopefully, that will happen in the final. Against West-Kerry, we were lucky enough to draw back their lead. We are giving teams a bit of a lead, which is a concern for us,’ expressed the 2000 All-Star recipient. At the start of the year, Russell underwent a groin operation to clear up a niggling problem. Since then, his form has not been at the level that people had become accustomed to. ‘That’s right. With Kerry, I was a bit disappointed with my own performances this year. Maybe the body felt OK but the sharpness wasn’t there. I did miss all the National League, I suppose, but we’ve got a good run in this competition, which is giving us some games at the end of the year so, hopefully, I can produce better form now,’ said the honest attacker. What of the 2001 champs? ‘At the start of every county championship in recent years, An Ghaeltacht would be the favourites with the pedigree of the players that they have. They will be favourites again on Sunday but a final is a final and we’ll be giving it our best shot. Both teams could probably have been pipped in the semi-finals and a lot depends on who has learned the most since those two games. There’s a lot being made of two club teams getting to the final but, on balance, I think they have been the best two outfits,’ concluded Russell.
Another potential ace in the Laune Rangers’ pack is Billy O Shea, that is, if the versatile forward is fit to line out. ‘The ankle is not too bad now. I went over on it against South-Kerry and it was bad for a few days. I’ve had physio since and been working on it. It’s still a bit tender but I would be hopeful. It was a clean snap of a ligament and I didn’t do too much damage to it by running,’ he said. Acknowledging the fact that the team has been almost completely rebuilt since the glory days of 1996, O Shea is slightly surprised with the rate of progress over the last couple of years. ‘We are (surprised) to a degree, because when we started with John (Evans) again two years ago, we knew that Rome was never built in a day and that it was going to take time. Getting out of Division Two and winning the Mid-Kerry Championship were targets and we achieved those last year. Maybe we have exceeded people’s expectations by reaching the final now but we’re there and we’ll be doing our best,’ he added. What of the assumption that the team has not played that well yet? ‘The boys are learning all the time. You couldn’t say that we have been impressive getting into the county final but we are working as hard as we can. We don’t go out to play bad games and we always try to give of our best. We’ll be trying to do the very same on Sunday,’ stated O Shea. ‘An Ghaeltacht are favourites and favourites on merit. People are going on that Mid-Kerry should have beaten them, but Mid-Kerry didn’t beat them and that’s the bottom line. An Ghaeltacht didn’t play their best football and still didn’t get beaten and that’s the real sign of a good team. They have quality players, are decorated with inter-county stars and players who have represented Ireland never mind club level. We are up against it,’ added O Shea. So, how do you beat them? ‘We will need the rub of the green and we’ve definitely had it for a lot of our county championship games thus far. We certainly had it against West-Kerry while, in the semi-final against South-Kerry, both teams didn’t perform well and it was just a bad game of football,’ admitted the Rangers’ forward. Billy O Shea will always be remembered as the player that had his leg broken by Maurice Fitzgerald in the 1997 All-Ireland final against Mayo. That unlucky accident virtually put an end to his career in the Kerry colours. ‘You do miss the inter-county scene because every young fellow’s dream is to play for Kerry and wear the green and gold and it was a joy to have been there while I was. When you’re dropped off the panel, it’s disappointing but you just have to get on with it. Getting back to the stage when you’re playing with your club in a county final is a great thing because they really are the reason why you get on the Kerry team in the first place. I’ve always said that the club has been very good to us in that respect. They have always looked after us when things didn’t go well for us at inter-county level and you don’t forget that,’ concluded O Shea.”
Laune Rangers’ Club Chairman, John Clifford, when interviewed for the Kerryman, said of the upcoming game: “Obviously, it’s great to be back in the county football final again. You can see that there’s a great buzz around the place and around the town. It’s great for the whole club. It’s like the old days back in the late 1980’s/early 1990’s when we contested five finals. This is our sixth final now since 1989 and, hopefully, things will go right for us on the day. We were relegated to Division Two of the County League, which was a major disappointment, but we got back up again straight away and we’re near enough to the top of the table in the top division now. We’re in the Co. Final, too, so things are going great. John Evans’ return was a major factor in our path to this position and himself and his backroom staff of John Griffin, John O Donnell and Tom Johnston have done great work for the club. Evans has brought a new enthusiasm and that great buzz that he always brings with him.
In the county championship this year, we got off the mark against Dr. Crokes and then we kind of struggled against Shannon Rangers, before winning by two points. We got over West-Kerry in the quarter-final, which was a bit of a struggle too. We have had to dig out a couple of results, which is a good sign of a side and shows a bit of character. People are saying our performances have not been the best, but it doesn’t matter how you win as long as you keep winning. Just look at Tyrone – they’re not too worried about their displays. As for Sunday, An Ghaeltacht are obviously the team to beat. They are like the old Kerry team in a way and they’re the side to beat in club football in this county. A lot of people are saying that they won’t slip up for the second year in a row but we’ll wait and see. Indeed, they were lucky enough against Mid-Kerry in the end. That ball that rolled wide in the last minute could have gone the other way. All the same, I think they deserved their victory that day.
In our semi-final against South-Kerry, they kicked a few bad wides in the closing stages but, having said that, we missed three good goal chances. They didn’t create any, which is a plus factor on our side. Our three inter-county players, John Sheehan, Liam Hassett and Mike Frank Russell, are every bit as important to us as the stars on the An Ghaeltacht team. They’re probably more vital to us because all the younger players on our team look up to them for leadership. Can we win it? Well, the fact that we have been down this road before is a plus for us and it would certainly be a huge thing for the team, the club and all the youngsters. Even if we lose, it’s not the end of the world because we only came up from Division Two of the County League last year with a very young team. Some commentators think that this might have come a year or two too soon for us, but we’ll wait and see on Sunday.”
John O Dowd spoke to the Laune Rangers’ captain, Pa O Sullivan, in the week leading up to the final: “Leading out your team in a county final is a proud moment for any footballer. It becomes even more of a blessing when injury could have prevented you from being there on the big day. Such is the case of 25-year-old Pa O Sullivan. The experienced forward, who appears to have been around for ages, could not have pictured being in such a position a few months ago. The Klinge-Fujisawa employee in Killorglin was preparing back in May for his side’s opening county championship assignment against Dr. Crokes when disaster struck. ‘I got injured back here in training before that match. I went over on my ankle and did the ligaments very badly on both sides,’ he said. ‘It was a nightmare, to tell you the truth, – watching the other lads perform so well and being captain for the one year too. You know me as well, trying to stay fit and someway in shape, it’s fairly hard!’ The one thing for O Sullivan, though, is that with the back-door championship format and Kerry’s progress in the All-Ireland championship, he didn’t miss too many big matches. ‘The only consolation was that I knew that it was early on in the year and that I would be able to come back. I was hoping that, towards the end of the season, we would be in contention for a few finals, and that’s the way it has turned out. I was going into the physio, Mícheál Lynch, inside in Tralee and he was always encouraging me. I didn’t miss that many games as such because, with the Kerry boys, there were no matches being played. Obviously, I wasn’t able to start the quarter-final against West-Kerry but this is the real important game to be ready for,’ he added.
The Laune Rangers’ skipper has been well pleased that the team has come on ‘in leaps and bounds’ this year but, as everybody in Killorglin knows only too well, there is no silverware in the 2003 cabinet yet. Now, it’s the ultimate test and a battle with star-studded An Ghaeltacht at Austin Stack Park on Sunday. ‘Look at every line on the field and they have a county player there. That tells its own story. Not only are they county players but they are extremely good county players. Look at the Ó Sé’s, the Mac Gearailt’s and Dara Ó Cinnéide, they are all top-class footballers.’ Yet Laune Rangers are not lacking in inter-county talent, as O Sullivan readily admits. ‘When the likes of myself, Mike Frank Russell and John Sheehan came onto the scene in 1995, we looked up to the senior players that were there then. To a certain degree now, we are those senior players and we have to perform now.
What of being captain? ‘It will be a proud day alright. The captaincy is over-stated in Gaelic football. As for taking frees, of course they could be important because, in a county final, you have to take all your chances or else you’re not going to win it,’ he stressed. This team may not be the same as the 1996 All-Ireland champions but a final is a final after all and it’s a real 50/50 affair. ‘It would be massive to win it because it’s been a couple of years now. That team back then was a great side and people know that we are not in any way as good as them, but we’ll give it a shot anyway,’ concluded the Rangers’ captain. A difficult year for Pa O Sullivan, but he has shown great personal determination and strength of character to overcome his serious ankle problem. Now he is only 60 minutes away from the top prize in Kerry club football and you can be sure that he won’t be found wanting for effort.”
Final on Sun. 12th Oct. at Austin Stack Park: Laune Rangers 0-10; An Ghaeltacht 0-10.
John O Dowd reported on the final in the Kerryman as follows: “While a draw was probably the fairest result in the circumstances, there were undoubtedly mixed emotions coming from the respective dressing-rooms after what turned out to be a quite interesting AIB Co. Senior Football Championship final in Austin Stack Park on Sunday afternoon. Putting it mildly, An Ghaeltacht must have been absolutely livid. After a quite tame first-half performance, they came out for the second period a completely new outfit and, with Darragh Ó Sé thundering into the picture at midfield for 15 or 20 minutes, their opponents had no answer. By the time Conall Ó Cruadhlaoich flighted over a beauty in the 50th minute, an interval two-point deficit had been transformed into a four-point lead (0-10 to 0-6). Things were now going according to plan for the pre-match favourites and it appeared to be the case of just playing out time and waiting to be presented with the trophy.
From Laune Rangers’ point of view, it was time to reach into the reserves of stamina and courage and dig deep if they were to have any prospect of saving their skins. Having been in similar positions in their last three championship encounters, they knew what they had to do and, once again, they weren’t found wanting. Having failed miserably to compete with the power-play of An Ghaeltacht on the resumption, they now found another gear when they needed it most. Mike Frank Russell pointed an easy free after Liam Hassett had been fouled. Then a great leap and run by John Lynch saw him pulled to the ground about 47m out from goal. With the aid of the post, Russell again obliged. Enter Colin O Connor and John Edmund Murphy to give fresh legs to a tiring attack. Now, there were only two points in it with four minutes to go. It still looked comfortable enough for the westerners, especially when Paul Costello gave away a needless free within Dara Ó Cinnéide’s range. Surprisingly, the Kerry full-forward, was off target. Cathal Ó Dubhda almost immediately shot another poor wide and there was still hope for the Killorglin men – time for the corner-backs to abandon their positions and risk everything.
Firstly, Noel Lynch made a powerful surge down the right flank, was eventually bottled up, laid the ball off to Russell (threatening from first whistle to last) and the corner-forward swivelled from right to left and curled over a beauty with his weaker foot. The Laune Rangers’ fans could sense what was going to happen next. Taking heed of what Lynch had done, the other corner-back, Brendan Fitzgerald, found himself at the end of a move involving Russell and Liam Hassett and, when Fitzgerald was adjudged to have been fouled, Russell showed coolness under pressure to tap over the equaliser and give both sides another day out in a fortnight’s time. So, relief for John Evans’ men at the final whistle because they surely felt that there was no way back when their opponents upped it several gears from the beginning of the second half.
For a period, An Ghaeltacht looked unstoppable as their backs blotted out the Rangers’ attack, Darragh Ó Sé and Pól Ó Cuinn monopolised possession at midfield with Dara Ó Cinnéide and Aodán Mac Gearailt always capable of winning ball up front. It looked a lost cause for the Killorglin men but their never-say-die spirit was again in evidence as An Ghaeltacht fell back in defensive mode, invited Rangers onto them and, if the game had gone on much longer, then it looked as if the pre-match underdogs would be the team to garner the winning score. Laune Rangers have now shown that they can match An Ghaeltacht over 60 minutes and the confidence to be gained from that, plus the experience that their younger players have now obtained, will make them an even more optimistic outfit next time round.
With a deceivingly strong breeze blowing into the Mitchel’s end, the first half turned out to be a quite affair, if not for a couple of excellent goal-chances that were squandered about halfway through. Russell opened the scoring with a free in the second minute and Ó Cinnéide got An Ghaeltacht off the mark with a long-range free in the fourth minute. Brian Gannon, very lively in the opening exchanges, shot wide with a speculative effort at goal before the corner-forward, causing plenty of problems for Daithí Mac Gearailt (who subsequently turned the screw in the second half), and Aodan Mac Gearailt swapped minors by the 11th minute. Competing superbly for the breaks around midfield, Laune Rangers soon got on top and excellent points from play by captain Pa O Sullivan and Russell had them 0-4 to 0-2 ahead entering the second quarter. Then, in the space of a minute came two goal opportunities that, had either been converted, could have been the catalyst for one of the teams to go on and lift the Bishop Moynihan Cup. In the 17th minute, Ó Cinnéide brilliantly fielded a high pass from Ó Cruadhlaioch and turned straight for goal. His marker was beaten but the full-forward’s low effort was well gathered by Tony Lyons in the Laune Rangers’ goal. From the ensuing play, the action switched to the other end of the pitch, with the always impressive Seamus Foley putting Russell inside a hobbling Marc Ó Sé and clean through on goal. It looked a certain goal but An Ghaeltacht net-minder, Pádraig Ó hÉalaithe, came bravely off his line and threw his body in the way of Russell’s shot for an excellent reflex stop. The Rangers’ forward possibly should have rounded him but credit the keeper for his timely intervention. Russell and Ó Cinnéide exchanged frees before halftime but seven wides also followed (three for Rangers and four for An Ghaeltacht) as the first period petered out quite disappointingly, with the Killorglin men leading by 0-5 to 0-3.
Obviously, strong words were spoken in the westerners’ dressing-room as they came out a rejuvenated side for the second half. With Rob Mac Gearailt and Ó Cruadhlaioch soon tacking over splendid points, the scene was set for what was to come. An Ghaeltacht were now in control and it was a case of how Rangers could cope with that. Pa O Sullivan did fire the Killorglin men into the lead again in the 33rd minute (0-6 to 0-5) and that was basically that for Rangers for the next seventeen minutes or so. Quite simply, they were forced back by the almost total dominance of their opponents. Russell was an isolated figure in the left-corner, unable to contribute as the ball was just not coming his way. Daithí Mac Gearailt and Marc Ó Sé (now in the halfback line) were inspiring their colleagues with Pól Ó Cuinn and, of course, Daragh Ó Sé, almost having 100% control over the vital midfield sector. The scores just had to follow. Aodán Mac Gearailt, Ó Cinnéide (2), substitute Breandán Breathnach and then Ó Cruadhlaioch surged An Ghaeltacht clear with only ten minutes to go. It was all one-way traffic, to be honest, but Laune Rangers were never put away and it was soon time for their spirited recovery, as described earlier.
Laune Rangers will undoubtedly be delighted to get another bite of the cherry considering the way the second half unfolded. It wasn’t a case of them disintegrating, it was all about the power of the opposition. Still, John Evans will also have one eye on the first half and the fact that they only led by two points at halftime. If Russell had goaled, what would it have done to the eventual outcome? Their best players on Sunday were Noel Lynch, Paul Costello (despite too much fouling), John Sheehan (sporadically), John Lynch, Liam Hassett (in patches), Billy O Shea and Brian Gannon (both first half), Seamus Foley (whose work was immense), Pa O Sullivan and Mike Frank Russell, definitely the liveliest player on the pitch.”
Laune Rangers: Tony Lyons, Noel Lynch, Eoin Ferris, Brendan Fitzgerald, Paul Costello, John Sheehan, Jerry Coffey, Johnny Lynch, Adrian Hassett, Seamus Foley, Billy O Shea, Liam Hassett, Brian Gannon (0-1), Pa O Sullivan (0-2) capt., Mike Frank Russell (0-7, 5 frees). Subs: Colin O Connor for B. Gannon, John Edmund Murphy for B. O Shea, Pa Murphy, Shane O Sullivan, Podge Foley, Karl Falvey, Redmond Fitzgerald, Barry O Sullivan, Mark Conway, Mark Healy, Shane Clifford, Terence Houlihan, Pa Sheehan, Paul O Connor, Andrew O Regan.
Ref: Tom Lynch (Kerins O Rahillys).
John O Dowd reported from the Laune Rangers’ dressing-room as follows: “Having been four points down with ten minutes to go, salvaging a replay at the death meant that there was undoubtedly a mood of absolute relief in the Laune Rangers’ dressing-room on Sunday afternoon. Trainer John Evans did not even try and disguise that emotion. ‘You would want to be a very unwise man not to be relieved, and yet excited that we are going to get a second chance at it,’ he said. ‘There are a couple of different emotions going through my mind at the moment.’ Evans admitted that his side should have put more scores on the board in the first half. ‘There’s no doubt that we nearly left it after us in the first half by missing countless scores. We showed up a few things in An Ghaeltacht that they will have to rectify if they are going to beat us. Similarly, we will have to shore up a few areas ourselves. Overall, it was a tremendously honest, good game of football. Scores weren’t that fluent because there was very tight marking and perhaps the forwards were a little anxious on both sides. The second day might be a bit more open and more relaxed,’ he added.
Despite only holding a two-point lead at halftime, the Laune Rangers’ supremo was in no way disappointed at the break. ‘No, if somebody told me that I would be two points up in wind and storm against An Ghaeltacht, then I would take it any day! We were in control at that stage and it was a very serene, quiet dressing-room, very positive and with a lot of constructive talking going on. In the second half, we went out to take the game to them but they seemed to lord it for 16, 17, 18 minutes. However, they weren’t scoring fluently either and, when a team is not scoring fluently, then you are still in with a great chance,’ expressed Evans. By the time Laune Rangers equalised in the dying moments, the momentum was clearly in their favour and their trainer felt that they would have emerged victorious if the game had gone on much longer. It was a different story, however, when they found themselves trailing by 0-10 to 0-6. ‘You would be concerned then but I know this team. I know where they have come from and I know their character. There are oodles of character in this team. For a young side, I’m very proud of them. They have great pride in Killorglin, in the Laune, in whom they represent. I would have no fears about them. If they went down five or six points, I still wouldn’t be worried about them,’ stressed Evans.
One man under particular pressure coming into the match was Mike Frank Russell after what was, by his high standard, a poor season. He didn’t let Evans down – far from it, in fact. ‘Mike Frank has been showing in the last three weeks in training what he can do for us. He’s really on fire and he was indeed unlucky not to get a goal in the first half but, in fairness, it was a great save by young Healy in goal.’ Still optimistic? ‘O yeah, very much so. If it goes onto a third replay, then I’ll be even more optimistic,’ concluded Evans.
Selector and club secretary, John Griffin, was also a very relieved man when referee Tom Lynch blew the final whistle. ‘Definitely at halftime, we knew that we were in control but we also knew that An Ghaeltacht were going to come out with all guns blazing,’ he said. ‘Really they had a 15-minute period where we couldn’t stay with them and I don’t think anybody could have stayed with them the way they were playing. We dug in there, however, the lads rallied and great credit is due to them for the last ten minutes. They dug out the result,’ he added. How did Griffin feel with ten minutes to go? ‘We thought we were in trouble but, at the same time, we said that we wouldn’t panic and would just stay with it. It would have been easier to panic and make wholesale changes. We thought we had played well enough in the first half and that we would come again. The lads had put in so much work that they weren’t going to die. I suppose we’re delighted with the result, at the end of the day,’ stated Griffin.
Having won their three previous championship games by two points, their harder path to the final really stood to Laune Rangers. ‘Definitely. The fact that we had to dig out all our results and only came through by a couple of points all the year stood to us in the last ten minutes. In the end, if there was another minute or two, it looked like we may have pulled it off. We won’t complain though.’ On the corner-backs charging up-field to set up the last two points, Griffin simply said, ‘I suppose that was desperation at the time. These fellows have been training for a long time and our fitness possibly showed in the end. We were still driving right to the finish.’ What about the replay now? ‘We will maybe go in a bit more confident the next day than we were today. The lads now have a county final under their belts and they all know what it’s like. Possibly nerves won’t be as big an issue on October 26,’ finished Griffin.
Captain Pa O Sullivan, who notched two points on the day, honestly felt that their goose was cooked when An Ghaeltacht took control for most of the second half. ‘I definitely thought it was gone from us and it’s a real feeling of relief now that we got a draw in the finish. We’re delighted to get another chance in two weeks time,’ he said. ‘We were saying that we didn’t know whether it was luck or fighting spirit that had kept us going up to today. The lads certainly showed massive character in the last five or ten minutes today.’ What went wrong at the start of the second half? ‘It was just their dominance. They were exceptional and their quality shone through. We had no answer to it but we came back fighting at them. We stuck at it and that’s the best thing we can take out of the game,’ he added. ‘In the last five minutes, they were on the back foot but they were always going to try and defend their lead. Maybe they might have better footballers than we have but we can match them in fighting for the victory.’ O Sullivan stressed that the breeze also had a considerable impact on their second half performance and he paid tribute to the seven-point contribution of Mike Frank Russell. ‘He always delivers on the big day, fair-play to him. He pulled us out of the fire today with some great scores. He’s good enough to do that on any day.’
Russell, himself, summed up how the whole squad was feeling. ‘We knew that An Ghaeltacht was a good team and that we weren’t going to dominate for the full 60 minutes. I was ruing my missed chance in the first half because we definitely could have been further ahead at the break. That was our period of dominance and, in the end, we could have paid for those misses,’ he said. ‘Still, we knew that we had a lot of training done and, while they had a big 20 minutes in the second half, we felt that they would not dominate for the full 30 minutes. Thank God, we kept going right to the end. Even if we were going to lose by a point, we were going to keep going. It’s not over until the fat lady sings, as they say!’ The Kerry corner-forward felt that Darragh Ó Sé came into things big-time at midfield in the second half and that he, and his attacking colleagues, was forced to live off scraps. On the missed goal chance in the first half, he said, on hindsight, that he maybe should have tried to round the An Ghaeltacht custodian. ‘Overall, things went OK for me but it would have been a killer to have lost. I’m just happy that we have another chance. We have two more weeks training ahead of us and we’ll give it our best shot. There is a good bit of quality in this team. Regarding An Ghaeltacht, as I said before the match, they are up there to be knocked at and everybody wants a crack at them. They definitely set the standards in Kerry and, in the second half, they showed just why. However, there’s a good bunch of fellows here, unsung names like Seamus Foley, who really put himself on the map today. The experience from today will help us but it will be harder again the next day. We will be coming to win, but so will they. It will all be down to whoever learns most from their mistakes,’ concluded Russell.
His Kerry team-mate, John Sheehan, also understood that it turned into a virtual game of two halves for the Killorglin team. ‘At the start, we were looking good, but in the first 15 to 20 minutes of the second half, I thought the game was honestly gone from us,’ he said. ‘The team showed great spirit to come back and we’re relieved to be there for another day.’ What was the feeling at halftime? ‘We had the wind in the first half and we missed a nice few chances. We should have been taking them but that’s football. In the second half, An Ghaeltacht had their chances and they took them and went well ahead of us at one stage. An Ghaeltacht had all the ball and they were driving at us and the game looked well beyond us with ten minutes to go. However, the younger players on the team, especially, showed great fighting character and I think our fitness came through. That’s all thanks to John Evans,’ added Sheehan. The teak-tough defender was also of the view that tough matches all year had benefited Laune Rangers in the closing stages. ‘Most of our games this year have been close. We were lucky to come out of the Shannon Rangers match and then we had tough clashes with West-Kerry and South-Kerry. They were all about fighting spirit. Hopefully, we can carry that on to the next day and just plough away again. We’ve always had confidence and belief in ourselves. We have worked and trained hard, even though An Ghaeltacht has a lot more county players on every line of the field. We have younger players who are hungry and want success. We’ll take great heart out of today’s game and we’ll come out fighting again in the replay,’ concluded Sheehan. You can count on that from all the Killorglin men.”
Final replay on Sun. 26th Oct. at Tralee: An Ghaeltacht 0-12; Laune Rangers 2-4.
John O Dowd reported on the game in the Kerryman as follows: “In the end, it all came down to one kick of the ball. Trailing by two points entering injury time, Laune Rangers mounted one last effort to save their skins. The Gaeltacht defence, which had been carved open on numerous occasions earlier in the game, caved in once more as substitute Colin O Connor sent captain Pa O Sullivan clean through on goal. The crowd held its collective breath as the full-forward prepared to shoot. With only the goalkeeper to beat and loads of time to steady himself, it looked certain that a green flag was about to be raised. The ball leaves his left peg, flies past Pádraig Ó hÉalaithe and the Killorglin men prepare to rejoice. Then, thud, the right-hand upright takes the full impact of O Sullivan’s carefully placed shot and the net does not bulge. In the ensuing play, a defender (Marc Ó Sé) appears to pick the ball straight off the ground (no penalty given) and Ó hÉalaithe bravely smothers a close range effort from Adrian Hassett. The final whistle goes soon afterwards, joy and delirium for the westerners, agony for the Rangers. What an amazing finale!
So, just like the semi-final with Mid-Kerry, An Ghaeltacht had to endure the nerve-shredding tension of almost seeing their hopes dashed by a late killer goal. Once again, they just about survived and, for their excellent second-half performance, deservedly so. Quite simply, they produced an absolute replica of what had transpired in the drawn game two weeks ago. Woeful in the first half, a full 25 minutes without a score and five points down at the interval (2-2 to 0-3) and, in fairness, very fortunate not to be even further adrift. Then, An Ghaeltacht comes out for the second period a transformed outfit, takes complete control of nearly every sector on the pitch, wipes out the Rangers’ advantage by the end of the third quarter and moves three points clear by the 50th minute (0-11 to 2-2). Now was the time to kill off the Killorglin men but, as happened in the previous encounter, An Ghaeltacht could not do it. Darragh Ó Sé and Aodán Mac Gearailt kicked two wides and two points at the other end from Pa O Sullivan (including a rasping drive for goal that was tipped over the bar) saw the deficit reduced to the very minimum entering the dying moments. Cometh the hour, cometh the man, cometh the undoubted man-of-the-match…. Tomás Ó Sé starts a move that features Aodán Mac Gearailt and Cathal Mac Gearailt before the ball is transferred back to the dynamic centre-back and Ó Sé rifles over a beauty with his left leg to give An Ghaeltacht that extra little cushion that they held to the finish, despite the major scare right at the death.
No words can console Laune Rangers and they won’t want to hear that they are a very young team and that they will surely be back again. They know in their hearts and souls that they could have put the match beyond their opponents in the first half and that, for the second time, they had no answer whatsoever when the knife was twisted at the outset of the second half. As well as that, six scores in a county final (only four points) and no second-half score for a full 25 minutes was never going to be enough. It all looked so different at the start when Rangers rattled the pre-match favourites with a goal after only two minutes. Mike Frank Russell and Liam Hassett were involved in the build-up and there was midfielder John Lynch at the end of it to take advantage of extremely sloppy defending to blast the ball past a helpless Ó hÉalaithe. Initially, An Ghaeltacht did not seem too perturbed with Tomás Ó Sé laying down an immediate marker, charging up-field to set up points for Aodán Mac Gearailt and Conall Ó Cruaidhlíoch , with Mac Gearailt, causing early problems for Eoin Ferris, adding another in between. It was a real promising opening five minutes but, it has to be said that the quality of the fare on offer deteriorated rapidly after that, with An Ghaeltacht, unbelievably, not scoring again before the interval, while Rangers, despite dominating the play, didn’t make the most of their opportunities.
Brian Gannon, totally on top against Daithí Mac Gearailt and by far the Killorglin side’s most dangerous forward, put his team ahead again in the 13th minute, with his first point of the day and we then endured ten scoreless minutes, as the standard of football plummeted even further. The one move of note came when Gannon and Russell again bored holes in An Ghaeltacht defence but Gannon’s attempt at another gaol was blocked brilliantly by a diving Seán Mac Síthigh. That was another let-off for the winners’ creaking back division (despite Marc Ó Sé being well on top against a subdued Russell) but they failed to heed the message and Rangers struck for their second three-pointer in the 23rd minute. Seamus Foley, Gannon and Billy O Shea were all involved before John Sheehan found himself close to goal and he was, amazingly, given the time to get up off the ground and find the unmarked Jerry O Brien and the wing-forward, a late call-up due to Jerry Coffey’s injury, wasn’t going to look a gift-horse in the mouth. An Ghaeltacht were now in disarray. Darragh Ó Sé saw yellow, Dara Ó Cinnéide drove a simple free against the post and Gannon, after great perseverance from Liam Hassett, pointed again to give Rangers a far from flattering interval lead of 2-2 to 0-3.
The pattern of the first half had run according to the previous match. If that was to continue, An Ghaeltacht would come out a different side on the resumption. That they certainly did. It was Pól Ó Cuinn who got them on their way with the hard-working midfielder launching over a mighty point from distance in the 33rd minute that just had to inspire his team-mates. Taking a lead from this, three points from Ó Cinnéide (two from placed balls) and a left-footed special from Darragh Ó Sé had the winners back on level terms by the 44th minute (0-8 to 2-2). It could have even been worse for Rangers as Adrian Hassett was in the right place to prevent a miscued Ó Cinnéide free from squirming over the line. The pendulum had swung and there was nothing John Evans’ men could do about it. Not winning ball around midfield had the forwards living off scraps and, with Russell unable to impose himself at all against a defiant Marc Ó Sé, there appeared to be only one outcome. That belief strengthened with Tomás O Conchubhair’s workmanlike point to put his team ahead for the very first time and, though Aodán Mac Gearailt wasted an excellent goal chance when Tony Lyons did well to block his close-range effort, a wonderful score from Marc Ó Sé and a third point from Mac Gearailt propelled An Ghaeltacht three points clear by the 50th minute. Then came the exciting finish (already described) where Pa O Sullivan was, oh, so close to being a Rangers’ hero. It was not to be, however, and it was Darragh O Sé who got acquainted with the Bishop Moynihan Cup.
For Laune Rangers, a terrible disappointment but one they will recover from. They are a young team who will continue to develop as long as John Evans remains at the helm and such a defeat will give them bundles of optimism for next year’s campaign. After all, they know now that they were just a kick of the ball away from being county champions. There best players on Sunday were Noel Lynch, John Sheehan (sporadically), John Lynch (patches), Seamus Foley, Pa O Sullivan (apart from his finishing) and Brian Gannon. By his standards, Liam Hassett’s play was too pedestrian for the most part, while Mike Frank Russell did not get going at all (admittedly the service to him wasn’t the best) and, without a big scoring input from the Kerry forward, it was always going to be an uphill struggle for Rangers.”
Laune Rangers: Tony Lyons, Adrian Hassett, Eoin Ferris, Noel Lynch, Paul Costello, John Sheehan, Brendan Fitzgerald, John Lynch (1-0), Liam Hassett, Seamus Foley, Billy O Shea, Jerry O Brien (1-0), Brian Gannon (0-2), Pa O Sullivan (0-2, 1 free), Mike Frank Russell. Subs: Colin O Connor for J. O Brien, Barry O Sullivan for B. O Shea.
Ref: Tom Lynch (Kerins O Rahillys).
John O Dowd sought the views of the Laune Rangers’ dressing-room and reported as follows: “Despite the obvious disappointment at being so close to victory, Laune Rangers’ trainer, John Evans, admitted that An Ghaeltacht deserved to collect their second AIB Co. Senior Football title in three years at Austin Stack Park on Sunday. ‘The better team won on the day,’ he said. ‘Mind you, at the same time, we had some wonderful, wonderful chances. We carved them open again and we had brilliant opportunities to put the game beyond them in the first half.’ That didn’t happen and Laune Rangers were made to pay the ultimate price. ‘When they survived and we didn’t put them away, we knew that there was going to be a rally in them. That took place in the second half but our fellows kept going and it all came down to one kick of the ball in the end. Saying that, I don’t think a team would deserve to win a championship kicking four points. An Ghaeltacht had learned how to work the ball out of defence. They had been quite naïve in the championship doing that as it was always going through Darragh Ó Sé. This time, they opened up and brought in other players a small bit and they also kicked great points,’ added Evans.
The Killorglin supremo fully understood that the two first half goals from John Lynch and Jerry O Brien really rattled the winners but that other goaling chances were missed. Evans still sees a big future for this team. ‘This is a very, very young Laune Rangers’ side. Last year, An Ghaeltacht beat us by 12 points in the club championship. After that, we went back into the gym and trained twice or three nights a week right through November, December, January, February and March. That’s how we took the defeat last year and we built on it. That’s why we were able to fight back each time this year. That’s the endurance, as we haven’t stopped training in two years. Perhaps people will say that we got the most out of them but they have the experience now and I expect them to learn from it.’ What went wrong at the outset of the second half? ‘You can plan for all these things but they are a good team. The one thing they have done now is shaken the monkey off their backs. If those fellows couldn’t shake us off today, they would have been seven times to the well and not drank from it and you would have had grave doubts about them. A team has to learn to dig deep and that’s going to stand to them when they go out in the club championship. Fighting back twice will do them the power of good. I don’t think An Ghaeltacht were able to do that until this county final,’ stressed Evans.
On whether and An Ghaeltacht defender picked the ball straight off the ground after Pa O Sullivan’s last-gasp effort cannoned off the post, the Rangers’ trainer simply stated, ‘What are we going to do? We might have missed the penalty.’ How far adrift of the new champions are Laune Rangers? ‘I don’t see us as being behind them at all, to be honest with you – the width of the post, the hop of the ball, and An Ghaeltcht know that themselves. Evans feels that Fergal Ó Sé’s men can make an impact in the upcoming provincial and All-Ireland campaign. ‘If they stop dreaming and be realistic about what they are doing. They are thinking ahead too quickly and that’s very evident in their play. They don’t fight until they realise that they are in a fight. Having said that, I’m not being critical of them. That’s something I hope they learn themselves and go on to represent Kerry as best they can.’ Despite the way it all turned out in the end, Evans has been thrilled with the progress his team has made since he returned to the helm. ‘It has been highly rewarding for me to come back and put a team that had been relegated to Division 2 of the County League back into the top division and now we are up in the play-offs at the top of that. After that, the championship was the acid test and we have jumped nearly every fence that has been put in front of us. It’s been a great time,’ he concluded.
Club Secretary and team selector, John Griffin, also feels that An Ghaeltacht are worthy champions. ‘We had that chance at the end but, on the overall run of the play, An Ghaeltacht deserved it. Four points from us is a poor return for a county final, so we are a bit disappointed in that regard,’ he said. ‘I thought we dominated for long stages of the game and had a lot of the ball, despite not winning midfield. However, they took their scores and we didn’t and that was the difference in the end.’ How did things go so wrong once again in the second period? ‘It took us something like 20 minutes or more to get a score in the second half and that was very disappointing. Again we had the chances but we just didn’t put them away. We’ll have to sit down and analyse it and see where things went wrong. It’s two games in succession now where we have been asleep after halftime and have got caught. We’ll be back, though,’ added Griffin. The Rangers’ selector paid tribute to their opponents’ second half performance. ‘They definitely just upped it a gear and I don’t think our lads did anything wrong as such. Darragh and Tomás Ó Sé really came into the game around the middle of the field. Tomás certainly punished us with some scorching runs out of defence. We had a great start and that’s a change for us. We usually have to come from behind in games. We probably didn’t build on it though and we let them back for three easy enough points that we should have cut out,’ expressed Griffin. Stressing the fine displays of Seamus Foley and Brian Gannon, Griffin is adamant that this team is going to be around for several years. ‘We have no fears in that regard,’ he said.”
Co. Club Football Championship
Rd. 1 on Sat. 26th April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 1-13; John Mitchels 2-5.
Mitchels matched the locals in most facets of play for long periods but Rangers were marginally the superior side and, at a crucial period in the second half, having conceded a penalty goal, subsequently opened up a significant scoring gap. Mitchels, to their credit, maintained their momentum and secured their second goal nine minutes from the end, but Rangers were always able to respond whenever their scoring advantage was threatened.
Mitchels applied a lot of pressure at the outset of proceedings and disrupted Rangers’ methodical build-up play from defence on a number of occasions. Aidan Moynihan (free) and Seamus Foley exchanged early points and after Moynihan, with another pointed free, had edged Mitchels in front, a last gasp tackle denied Eoin Kelliher of what looked like being a Mitchels’ goal in the 9th minute. Colin O Connor (free) levelled matters one minute later but Mitchels, with Moynihan and Boylan shading the midfield duel, continued to exert a grip territorially and another pointed free from Aidan Moynihan afforded the visitors the lead once again. Rangers tended to depend almost exclusively on Colin O Connor in attacking situations and most of their forward thrusts were directed through him in the left corner. O Connor, with a brace of pointed frees, pushed Rangers in front with 10 minutes remaining in the half but an excellent score from way out on the touchline from Jason Fitzgerald put Mitchels back on level terms. A Brian Gannon free, signalled wide by the umpire, but awarded by the referee, and a first from play by Colin O Connor, pushed Rangers two in front, as Mitchels, with an equal amount of possession, kicked on occasion aimlessly from long range. John E. Murphy, with his first score, in added time, insured that Rangers retired for the interval break three points in front (0-7 to 0-4).
Within seconds of the restart, the locals very nearly consolidated their situation with a goal but Mitchels’ outstanding goalkeeper John Fitzgerald, with an excellent stop, denied full-forward Seamus Foley, after Brian Gannon had carved out the opportunity for him. Wing-back Jerry Coffey converted the resultant ‘45’ but Ger Dan Dennehy kept Mitchels in touch with an immediate reply at the other end. Within six minutes of the restart, Mitchels were back on level terms when Josh O Dowd, having initiated the move himself, finished clinically with a low drive to the corner of the net. A Colin O Connor free pointed Rangers back in front by the bare minimum and it was a lead they never subsequently surrendered. Mitchels were off target twice from good positions before Rangers struck for a crucial goal coming up to the end of the third quarter. After a foul on Seamus Foley, the resultant penalty kick from Brian Gannon was saved superbly by Fitzgerald but, in the ensuing play, Liam Hassett followed up and converted to the net with a tap-in from close range.
Colin O Connor and Gerry O Brien, with successive points, extended Rangers’ lead to six points with 12 minutes remaining, at which stage Mike Frank Russell was introduced from the substitutes’ bench (He had been out with an injury for some time). Wing-ford John Murphy extended the locals’ lead even further with ten minutes remaining but, a minute later, Mitchels resurrected their fading hopes when Jason Fitzgerald’s neat flick set up a goaling chance for Paul Coffey and he directed a ground shot across the face of the goal and into the far corner of the net. Slick defending by Eoin Ferris kept Mitchels at bay for a period and after Mike Frank Russell, with an excellent score from an acute angle, had kicked the final score of the encounter, John Fitzgerald once again with tremendous bravery and agility denied Colin O Connor of what looked like being a certain goal. Eight different players figured on the Rangers’ score-sheet, with seven of their 13 points coming from play.
Laune Rangers: Tony Lyons, John O Sullivan, Eoin Ferris, Shane O Sullivan, Terence Houlihan, Pa Murphy, Jerry Coffey (0-1, ‘45’), Johnny Lynch, John Sheehan, Gerry O Brien (0-1), Liam Hassett (1-0), John E. Murphy (0-2), Brian Gannon (0-1, free), Seamus Foley (0-1), Colin O Connor (0-6, 4 frees). Sub: Mike Frank Russell (0-1) for J.E. Murphy.
Ref: Donie Sheehan (Gneeveguilla).
Quarter-final on Sat. 13th Sept. at Killarney: Dr. Crokes 1-9; Laune Rangers 0-16.
A scintillating second-half display from Laune Rangers paved the way for them to seal another last four spot in the club championship. Brian Gannon and Mike Frank Russell gave them a two-point lead, before Colm Cooper got Dr. Crokes’ first point from a free. Shane Clifford made a great save from Luke Quinn before Aidan O Shea pointed a ‘45’ to level the scores at 0-2 apiece. The game wasn’t firing on all cylinders yet, but Kerry team-mates Liam Hassett and Colm Cooper both registered points for their sides, MF Russell adding another for Rangers before Shane Myers put the home side level once more. When Cooper put the Crokes ahead, it only served to inspire the Rangers in the last five minutes of the half, Brian Gannon, Liam Hassett, Colin O Connor and Pa O Sullivan kicking four unanswered points to put them 0-8 to 0-5 in the lead at the break.
Liam Hassett was making a difference around the middle of the field and, when MF Russell and Brian Gannon added two further points early in the second half, Crokes were in trouble. Aidan O Shea, with a brace, reduced the gap to three and Colm Cooper further reduced the gap. Again Rangers raised their game though and picked up the pace at midfield. MF Russell and Liam Hassett pushed the lead back up to four points and Pa O Sullivan kicked one more. Shane Myers was fouled in the penalty area and Kieran Cremin came up from the Crokes’ goal and blasted the shot past Shane Clifford and the deficit was back to two points. Again Rangers lifted themselves and Brian Gannon, Pa O Sullivan and Adrian Hassett restored the five-point gap. However, Crokes weren’t finished and it took two terrific saves from Rangers’ goalkeeper from Cooper and Michael O Grady to keep them ahead and they retained the lead right to the end of the game.
Best for Rangers were Noel Lynch, Jerry Coffey, John Sheehan, Johnny Lynch, Liam Hassett, Mike Frank Russell and Shane Clifford, was man-of-the-match with two great saves.
Laune Rangers: Shane Clifford, Noel Lynch, Eoin Ferris, Brendan Fitzgerald, Jerry Coffey, John Sheehan, Paul Costello, Johnny Lynch, Adrian Hassett (0-1), Brian Gannon (0-4), Liam Hassett (0-3), John Edmond Murphy, Mike Frank Russell (0-4, 1 free), Pa O Sullivan (0-3, frees) capt., Colin O Connor (0-1). Sub: Karl Falvey for J.E. Murphy.
Ref: Sean Kissane (Kerins O Rahillys).
Co. Senior Football League Div. 1
Rd. 1 on Sun. 16th March at Rathmore: Rathmore 0-10; Laune Rangers 0-12.
In a forgettable game, riddled with frees, Laune Rangers produced a burst in the closing minutes to pop over late scores and take maximum points. There were a number of Kerry players on show, with Declan O Keeffe in goals for the home side and Tom O Sullivan having a tough battle against Liam Hassett. In the middle of the field, John Sheehan played well and his partner, Barry O Sullivan, really stood out.
The first fifteen minutes produced a lot of frees, the referee keeping tight control. Both sides were evenly balanced, with Rathmore points by Michael O Riordan and Jerry Murphy being cancelled out by pointed frees from Barry O Sullivan and Pa O Sullivan. The game was slow to spark into life, with John Buckley and Barry O Sullivan exchanging points, but it was a late burst of scoring from the visiting side in the closing minutes of the half, which put them in control. Colin O Connor kicked a point, Barry O Sullivan added a free, John Sheehan and Shane O Sullivan, with points from play, left them ahead by 0-7 to 0-3 at the break.
The second half improved somewhat, as both teams got into the rhythm of the game and, cheered on by a partisan home crowd, Rathmore began to dominate. With John Buckley and John Cronin beginning to win ball around the middle of the field, Jerry Murphy went on a point-scoring spree, kicking five points in the first 15 minutes of that half. Laune Rangers were struggling to get their game going at that stage but Liam Hassett pointed to leave the sides all square on 0-8 each. With 10 minutes to go, it was still all to play for and, with scoring at a premium, Rathmore’s Michael O Riordan smacked the ball off the crossbar and it rebounded back into play. Rangers carried the ball up-field immediately and Barry O Sullivan pointed. Shane O Neill levelled for Rathmore, while Kenneth O Keeffe put them ahead with a long-range point from play in the 27th minute. It looked like the home side would hold out, but Rangers stormed the barricades in the closing minutes and gained their reward. Pa O Sullivan levelled matters with a free and, in injury time, Terence Houlihan and Barry O Sullivan put them ahead and gave them the full points.
Laune Rangers: Tony Lyons, Noel Lynch, Eoin Ferris, Adrian Hassett, Brendan Fitzgerald, Paul Costello, Shane O Sullivan (0-1), John Sheehan (0-1), Barry O Sullivan (0-5, 2 frees), Seamus Foley, Billy O Shea, Gerry O Brien, Pa O Sullivan (0-2, frees), Liam Hassett (0-1), Colin O Connor (0-1). Subs: Terence Houlihan (0-1) for B. Fitzgerald, John Edmund Murphy for C. O Connor, Jerry Coffey for S. Foley.
Ref: Donie Sheehan (Gneeveguilla).
Rd. 2 on Sat. 29th March at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 0-12; Kerins O Rahillys 2-10.
Despite scoring only two points in the second half, O Rahillys had built up enough of a lead to keep them ahead and, while Rangers upped their second-half performance considerably and fired over seven points, it wasn’t to prove enough. Laune Rangers lost the game in the first half. Winning a lot of ball around the middle of the field, the Tralee side was able to slice through the Rangers’ defence, Ger Molloy, Declan Quill and John O Connor being the most effective. O Connor opened the scoring and added three more soon afterwards and, with just 10 minutes gone, he was at the end of a move to power the ball past Shane Clifford in the home side’s goal. Rangers’ Seamie Foley opened their account midway through the half. Nevertheless, Declan Quill, Ger Molloy and John O Connor added points for O Rahillys. Signs of a recovery came though in the closing stages of the half, as Pa O Sullivan and Colin O Connor kicked over frees to reduce the deficit to six points. Then, a Declan Quill free fell short and into the net just before the end to leave the home side in arrears by 0-5 to 2-8 at the break.
To the credit of the Killorglin side, they came back strongly and, taking over in almost every area of the field, they pushed O Rahillys back in defence. Colin O Connor was a star in the Rangers’ attack and, when the ball found its way to him, he caused danger, kicking points and being awarded frees. Barry O Sullivan, Colin O Connor and Pa O Sullivan kicked points to reduce the gap and there were just four points in the game with just minutes left. However, as the Killorglin boys pushed forward looking for more scores, they left space at the back and O Connor and Quill kicked points to guarantee victory.
Laune Rangers: Shane Clifford, Noel Lynch, John Sheehan, Adrian Hassett, Terence Houlihan, Pa Murphy, Shane O Sullivan, Johnny Lynch, Paul Costello, Seamie Foley (0-1), Billy O Shea, Gerry O Brien, Pa O Sullivan (0-4, 3 frees), Liam Hassett (0-1), Colin O Connor (0-4). Subs: Barry O Sullivan (0-2, 1 free) for S. O Sullivan, John E. Murphy for S. Foley, Conor Falvey for T. Houlihan.
Ref: Dermot Clifford (Fossa).
Rd. 3 on Sat. 12th April at Mitchels Pitch: John Mitchels 0-8; Laune Rangers 4-10.
Laune Rangers comfortably grabbed two points with a power-packed display. From early in the game, they looked strong and Mitchels struggled to keep up with them in all departments. After just five minutes, the home side was in trouble, as Rangers attacked from the throw-in and a terrific passing movement saw Liam Hassett blast the ball to the back of the net. Liam Hassett, in particular, looked very sharp and he caused the Tralee side’s defence all kinds of trouble with his strong running and physical strength. Points from Gerry O Brien and Liam Hassett saw the Rangers move five points clear and when the Mitchels goalkeeper, John Fitzgerald, saw his shot blocked by Liam Hassett and the ball rolled into the net, it was as bad as things could get for the Tralee side, trailing by 2-2 to 0-0 with only five minutes gone. Mitchels’ forwards struggled against the tight-marking Rangers’ defence. It took 20 minutes for them to open their scoring, a free by Jameson Fitzgerald, but Rangers’ reply was immediate, Gerry O Brien netting their third goal. Jameson Fitzgerald had Mitchels’ second point from a ‘45’ but Rangers hit back once more with their fourth goal. Brian Gannon took a pass from Colin O Connor and shot home. Eoin Kelliher and Aidan Moynihan closed the scoring to leave Rangers ahead by 4-2 to 0-4 at the break. The game was almost over as a contest.
On the resumption, Pa O Sullivan had two points from play, while the home side had points from Jameson Fitzgerald, Aidan Moynihan and Anthony Gleeson. Moynihan kicked Mitchels’ only point in the final 20 minutes, while Brian Gannon, Gerry O Brien and Pa O Sullivan (2) with points closed the scoring.
Laune Rangers: Tony Lyons, Adrian Hassett, Eoin Ferris, Pa Murphy, Karl Falvey, Paul Costello, Shane O Sullivan, John Sheehan, Johnny Lynch, John E. Murphy, Liam Hassett (2-1), Gerry O Brien (1-2), Brian Gannon (1-2), Pa O Sullivan (0-5), Colin O Connor. Subs: Seamus Foley for G. O Brien, Mark Conway for A. Hassett, Pa Sheehan for S. O Sullivan, Jerry Coffey for C. O Connor.
Ref: Tommy Sugrue (St. Pat’s, Blennerville).
Rd. 4 on Sat. 19th April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 1-11; Kilcummin 0-5.
Laune Rangers were comfortably in control all during that game. Kilcummin never offered any real resistance to the Rangers, who never had to up the pace and, despite kicking some bad wides, they had too much in the bag for the opposition. The home side took control right from the start, with two frees from Pa O Sullivan and a point from play from Colin O Connor. O Connor had a shot off the crossbar before Eamonn O Donoghue pointed for Kilcummin. Cha Doherty was the busier of the goalkeepers and he saved well from Pa O Sullivan and Colin O Connor. However, further points from Jerry Coffey (‘45’) and Colin O Connor (free) pushed the home side further ahead, Kilcummin’s only reply being a point by DJ Fleming. Colin O Connor and Eamonn O Donoghue swapped points to leave the Killorglin men ahead by 0-6 to 0-3 at the break. However, Laune Rangers should have been much further ahead, such was their dominance.
In the second half, the home side was in good form and picked up the pace. Brian Gannon kicked two points, followed by a pointed free by Colin O Conor and a similar score from play by John Sheehan. Kilcummin’s only response was two pointed frees by DJ Fleming. In the closing stages Pa O Sullivan kicked over to give his side a six-point lead. Then, when Colin O Connor kicked in a long ball, Brian Gannon collected and found the net to put Kilcummin to the sword.
Laune Rangers: Tony Lyons, Noel Lynch, Eoin Ferris, Brendan Fitzgerald, Adrian Hassett, Paul Costello, Jerry Coffey (0-1), John Sheehan (0-1), Johnny Lynch, Liam Hassett, John E. Murphy, Brian Gannon (1-2), Pa O Sullivan (0-3), Colin O Connor (0-4), Gerry O Brien. Subs: John O Sullivan for B. Fitzgerald, Pa Sheehan for JE Murphy, Seamus Foley for G. O Brien, Pa Murphy for P. Costello.
Ref: Aidan Mangan (Austin Stacks).
Rd. 5 on Sat. 3rd May at Sneem: Sneem 3-5; Laune Rangers 3-10.
A goal from Brian Gannon after two minutes of play led the way for that Laune Rangers win. Mike Frank Russell made his return in that game after a long injury problem and, although he only contributed one point, it was good to see him back in action. (He had an operation at the beginning of the year to clear up a troublesome groin problem). Playing against the wind, Rangers opened in whirlwind fashion and gave the Sneem defence the run-around in the opening period, scoring 2-5, the second goal coming from Gerry O Brien. It took Sneem until the 20th minute to open their account, when Michael Hussey pointed. That was soon followed by a goal from the penalty spot by Frank Hussey. However, following good work by John Sheehan and Johnny Lynch at midfield, Rangers finished strongly and were rewarded with a Colin O Connor goal to leave them ahead by 3-5 to 1-2 at the short whistle.
On the restart Sneem got stuck into the game and had the better of the exchanges around midfield, where Sean and Frank Hussey and Killian Burns got on top. There was a worry for the Kerry selectors when Laune Rangers lost their county player, John Sheehan, with an injury to be replaced by Billy O Shea. Good work by Michael Galvin led to goals for Sneem by Kieran Burns and Frank Hussey but, as hard as they tried, they could not peg back Rangers’ early lead and Tony Lyons’ terrific save from Michael Galvin kept the Killorglin side in control of the game.
Liam Hassett was influential for the winners at full-forward, feeding a lot of ball to his fellow forwards, while in defence Eoin Ferris and Tony Lyons were outstanding. The real stars for Rangers were their two corner-forwards, Brian Gannon and Colin O Connor, who contributed 2-8 to their total.
Laune Rangers: Tony Lyons, Pa Murphy, Eoin Ferris, Adrian Hassett, Jerry Coffey, Paul Costello, Shane O Sullivan, Johnny Lynch, John Sheehan, Mike Frank Russell (0-1), Liam Hassett, Gerry O Brien (1-0), Brian Gannon (1-4), Seamus Foley (0-1), Colin O Connor (1-4). Subs: Billy O Shea for J. Sheehan (inj.), Terence Houlihan for S. O Sullivan.
Ref: Mike O Donoghue (Glenflesk).
Rd. 6 on Sat. 10th May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 0-12; An Ghaeltacht 0-8.
In what proved to be a closely contested game, Laune Rangers proved to have too much scoring power and picked up both league points. Supporters from both sides were keeping a close eye on the game, both to see how the Kerry players were faring out and how their team would do in the forthcoming championship. At the end of the game, the jury was sill out, for both sides were missing a number of players, although An Ghaeltacht looked more under-strength than the Killorglin team. Rangers had Mike Frank Russell back in the starting line-up, but he was well policed during the game and struggled to make an impact, his lack of match-practice counting against him. But in the corners, Rangers had the winning of the game, with Brian Gannon and Colin O Connor troubling the Gaeltacht defence every time the ball was sent to them. And it was through those two that the majority of the Killorglin scores came. Gannon, in flying form, proved a problem for the Gaeltacht defence throughout and kicked a number of terrific points. At the other end, the Gaeltacht , despite having goods possession, couldn’t get past the Rangers’ defence, where Noel Lynch was in top form.
Colin O Connor kicked the opening point from a free and, soon after, Brian Gannon added a second, as Rangers started the better. Colin O Connor kicked a second free, with Pól Ó Cuinn responding for the Gaeltacht with a long-range point from the sideline. Tomás Ó Muircheartaigh added another but Brian Gannon responded with a point for the home side. Rangers were picking up a lot of breaks in the early stages. The West-Kerry side came more into the game and Darragh Ó Sé and Aodán Mac Gearailt (free) kicked points to see the sides level at 0-4 each at the break.
The second half was more evenly contested, with the wet weather conditions making matters difficult, but both sets of attackers swapped points, Brian Gannon and Mike Frank Russell shooting over, replied to by Criostóir Ó Cathasaigh (2). Midway through the half, the teams were still level, before Rangers opened up a gap, thanks to Brian Gannon, who shot over three points without reply. That gave the home side breathing space and, while Darragh Ó Sé and Criostóir Ó Cathasaigh kicked points, the impetus was with the Rangers and they finished with a flourish. Liam Hassett (fist), Brian Gannon and John Sheehan kicked points to stretch their lead and, with the Gaeltacht attack sewn up by theit defence, they ran out winners.
Laune Rangers: Tony Lyons, Noel Lynch, Eoin Ferris, Mark Conway, Terence Houlihan, Paul Costello, Shane O Sullivan, John Sheehan (0-1), Adrian Hassett, Billy O Shea, Liam Hassett (0-1), Gerry O Brien, Brian Gannon (0-7), Mike Frank Russell (0-1), Colin O Connor (0-2). Sub: Jerry Coffey for S. O Sullivan.
Ref: Tommy Gilligan (Valentia).
Rd. 7 on Sat. 7th June at Connolly Park: Austin Stacks 0-9; Laune Rangers 0-10.
All the excitement in that league tie was packed into the closing five minutes as unbeaten Austin Stacks failed in the frantic final minutes to keep their unbeaten record intact. They fired everything at under-strength Rangers in an effort to win the day, but at the final whistle it was the Killorglin team that held on for a shock victory. With under two minutes of normal time left on the stop-watch, the Stacks’ cause looked hopeless as they trailed by 0-10 to 0-6, but it was only then that they awoke from their slumber. Darren Ahern pointed a free and that was followed by a siege on the Rangers’ goalmouth. A Pa Laide ‘45’ was fisted against Rangers’ crossbar, the ball came back out where Mike Finn rose highest but the ball skimmed the bar and went over for a point. It was then 0-10 to 0-8 and 32 minutes played. Stacks, camped inside the Rangers’ half, won the kick-out. The ball was delivered in around the house. Rangers were living dangerously but Tony Lyons was in inspired form and, from a melee, the ball broke to Denis Sayers whose close-in shot went over the bar for the final score.
On the run of overall play, Rangers, minus their inter-county players, were the better team and played the more controlled football. Their backs played very well with Eoin Ferris, Pa Murphy, Paul Costello and long-serving Shane O Sullivan giving the Stacks’ attack no room to play their fast, attacking football. In the opening half, which was a tame affair, most of the scoring came from frees, with Colin O Connor a lively prospect and very dangerous from play. Stacks went two points up after just four minutes with pointed frees by Darren Ahern and Mikey Collins. Surprisingly though, they had only one further point in the half and that from a another Ahern free on the quarter-hour. Laune Rangers went to the front after 14 minutes play with three points by Colin O Connor (2 frees) after Darren Ahern had equalised for the locals. Rangers then took over and, with Billy O Shea, on the forty, the playmaker, Brian Gannon (free) and two more Colin O Connor frees eased the visitors into an interval lead of 0-6 to 0-3.
The opening quarter of the second half was dominated by the Stacks and they reduced the deficit with points by Darren Ahern and Denis Sayers to leave just the minimum dividing the sides, 0-6 to 0-5. At that stage, the signals were that Stacks would take over but, after Tony Lyons had saved well in the Rangers’ net, the Killorglin side went on to take a grip on proceedings by winning good ball around the middle of the field where Johnny Lynch and Adrian Hassett were having the better of Mike Finn and Wayne Quillinan. It took a superb ‘45’ kick by substitute Jerry Coffey to open the winners’ account in the 15th minute. They gave themselves a three-point cushion when full-forward Seamus Foley popped over another fine point. Stacks got one back when Kieran Donaghy pointed for a much-needed Stacks’ score. However, it was still Rangers who were posing more danger and they responded with Colin O Connor (free) and John Murphy (play) points to push ahead by 0-10 to 0-6. Then came the rousing Stacks’ rally.
For his performance in that game, Colin O Connor was chosen as sports-star of the week in the Kerry’s Eye newspaper.
Laune Rangers: Tony Lyons, Noel Lynch, Eoin Ferris, Pa Murphy, John O Sullivan, Paul Costello, Shane O Sullivan, Johnny Lynch, Adrian Hassett, John E. Murphy (0-1), Billy O Shea, Gerry O Brien, Brian Gannon (0-1, free), Seamus Foley (0-1), Colin O Connor (0-6, 5 frees). Sub: Jerry Coffey (0-1, ‘45’) for J O Sullivan.
Rd. 8 on Sat. 26th July at Cahersiveen: St. Mary’s 0-11; Laune Rangers 0-11.
A strong comeback from Laune Rangers in the closing minutes of that game saw them snatch a point and deny St. Mary’s outright leadership of Div. 1. The Cahersiveen side shared the top of the table with Austin Stacks as a result of that game, and the point picked up by Rangers saw them breathing down their necks, a point behind and well in contention for one of the final places. Mary’s were both pleased and disappointed with the draw, as it was achieved without key player, Maurice Fitzgerald, but they had the winning of the game until Rangers came back strongly. The Killorglin side, on the other hand, pointed to Pa O Sullivan’s fisted point in the first half being disallowed by the referee but they weren’t disappointed with the draw, missing, as they were, their Kerry contingent.
It was a poor first half with both sides kicking some poor wides, and the scoring was low. The home side opened the scoring through Austin Constable, but Pa O Sullivan was in fine form for the visitors after his injury lay-off and he clocked up two frees. Daniel O Sullivan and Jerry Coffey swapped points, but there was a spell of 10 minutes before the next score, Austin Constable levelling matters with a free. Pa O Connell then gave Mary’s the lead for the first time with a lovely point and they maintained that to the break, at which point they led by 0-4 to 0-3.
With the Mary’s side just about shading matters at midfield and, working hard to contain a Rangers’ side missing Liam Hassett, Mike Frank Russell and John Sheehan, they looked good odds to continue their winning run. However, they couldn’t get away from a dogged Killorglin side, which hung in their and punished indiscipline by the Mary’s backs, Pa O Sullivan looking sharp from frees. Johnny Lynch was coming into the game well at midfield and he grew in influence as the game progressed, cancelling out Pa O Connell’s fine work. Pa O Sullivan levelled it soon after the restart but John Quirke and Ray Keane added points for the home side. However, Rangers dug in deep and Seamus Foley reduced the gap to a point, but John Quirke restored the two-point margin. It was all to play for in the closing quarter and Brian Gannon, well held during the game, pointed for Rangers only for James Fitzgerald to push Mary’s ahead once more. Brian Gannon and Billy O Shea kicked points to level matters only for Daniel O Sullivan and James Fitzgerald again to put the home side into the driving seat with points. Rangers weren’t finished yet and, with Johnny Lynch more prominent in midfield, he kicked a fine point and Pa O Sullivan’s late free levelled matters with just one minute left. Jerry Coffey pointed a long-range free to give Rangers the lead but Austin Constable’s late free levelled it with just seconds left.
Laune Rangers: Tony Lyons, Noel Lynch, Eoin Ferris, Pa Murphy, Jerry Coffey (0-2, 1 free) Paul Costello, Shane O Sullivan, Adrian Hassett, Johnny Lynch (0-1), Seamus Foley (0-1), Billy O Shea (0-1), John E. Murphy, Brian Gannon (0-2), Pa O Sullivan (0-4, 3 frees), Colin O Connor.
Ref: Aidan Mangan (Austin Stacks).
Rd. 9 on Sun. 17th Aug. at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 1-8; Dr. Crokes 1-12.
With that result, Laune Rangers had missed their chance of going second in the league table. The game was evenly balanced, with both sides missing their county players. The lack of playing activity by the teams showed as they struggled to get into the game. The opening half produced an intriguing midfield contest, David Moloney and James Jones pulling down some fine ball, while Rangers worked hard for the scraps. It was Moloney who opened the scoring for the visitors, while Michael O Grady added another. Billy O Shea opened the Rangers’ account. Shane Myers kicked another point for Crokes after 10 minutes, but Pa O Sullivan and a brace from Colin O Connor put the Rangers side a point up at the end of the first quarter. Pat O Shea levelled matters shortly after he had entered the fray. Rangers responded with a Pa O Sullivan point but James Fleming and Shane Myers put the Crokes side a point up in the closing minutes of the half. Brian Gannon levelled matters, but, in a last gasp attack, Crokes were unlucky not to goal, Tony Lyons making a terrific save from James Jones and the sides were level at 0-6 each at the break.
Midfield was again the key area in the second half and, once more, Crokes took control as Rangers faded somewhat. With Vince Cooper and Neil Kelders looking sharp in defence, the Rangers’ attack was closed down well and struggled for space to kick scores. Michael O Grady kicked his second point of the game and three more from James Fleming, Aidan O Shea and Finian Moran pushed the Killarney side four points up, 0-10 to 0-6, with a quarter of an hour left. Rangers were in severe trouble but Pa O Sullivan, their only threat, kicked two points but they were struggling to create chances. James Fleming made it a three-point gap with 10 minutes left. Then, Shane Myers finished a fine move to the net and the game looked up. Eanna Kavanagh made it a seven-point gap with a point. Rangers never gave up, though, and, when Colin O Connor blasted to the net, the deficit was down to four. It could have been closer when Seamus Foley rattled the crossbar in injury time but Crokes held out and took both league points.
Laune Rangers: Tony Lyons, Karl Falvey, Pa Murphy, Brendan Fitzgerald, Mark Healy, Paul Costello, Shane O Sullivan, Johnny Lynch, Adrian Hassett, Pa O Sullivan (0-4), Billy O Shea (0-1), John E. Murphy, Brian Gannon (0-1), Seamus Foley, Colin O Connor (1-2). Sub: Pa Sheehan for JE Murphy.
Rd. 10 on Sun. 2nd Nov. at Castleisland: Desmonds 1-10; Laune Rangers 1-10.
Laune Rangers’ chances of making it into the Co. League final against Austin Stacks were dented when Desmonds came back to snatch a share of the points in that game. Rangers had the game won, leading by seven points with 15 minutes left to play, only for Desmonds to come back into the game. The Killorglin side was very unhappy with some of the refereeing decisions but they allowed it to affect them and that in turn allowed Desmonds to come back.
The condition of the pitch was very poor but Laune Rangers were in control for long stages of the game. Early scores from Brian Gannon, Gerry O Brien and Liam Hassett reflected that superiority. John Brennan kicked the first score of the game for Desmonds and Mike Frank Russell replied soon afterwards. However, Desmonds lifted their game and Kevin Lynch kicked a brace of frees in the 11th minute to reduce the lead to one point. Rangers then responded and kept Desmonds scoreless for the remainder of that half. Liam Hassett was very sharp at midfield and the defence was rock-solid. Further points from Colin O Connor, the impressive Seamie Foley, Mike Frank Russell and O Connor again gave them a five-point lead at the break, 0-8 to 0-3.
On the resumption, with the conditions not helping either side, the play deteriorated, but Rangers kept chipping away with points. Pa O Sullivan and Seamie Foley added points, while Kevin Lynch kicked a hat-trick of frees to keep his side barely in touch. Then, when Colin O Connor goaled in the 16th minute, there were seven points between the sides and it seemed enough for Rangers. The game changed though, as Desmonds lifted their performance and Rangers became distracted with a number of refereeing decisions. Three Kevin Lynch points and another from Kieran O Sullivan left just three points between the sides and 5 minutes to play. Then, when Barry Lynch goaled, it capped an unbelievable comeback. Rangers were shaken and couldn’t come back to grab a late winner and a row between players in the final minutes signalled the end of the game.
Laune Rangers: Shane Clifford, Brendan Fitzgerald, Eoin Ferris, Pa Murphy, Paul Costello, John Sheehan, Shane O Sullivan, Adrian Hassett, Liam Hassett (0-1), Seamie Foley (0-2), Mike Frank Russell (0-2, 1 free), Gerry O Brien (0-1), Brian Gannon (0-1), Pa O Sullivan (0-1), Colin O Connor (1-2). Subs: Johnny Lynch for A. Hassett, John Edmond Murphy for G. O Brien, Pa Sheehan for C. O Connor.
Ref: Eddie Anthony Walsh (Asdee).
Rd. 11 on Sun. 9th Nov. at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 1-16; Dingle 1-7.
That result was important for the home side, as they needed the victory in order to have a chance of finishing second in the Co. League table. In the event, with St. Mary’s winning, it was not enough to make the top two. The first half was a tight affair with both sides trading scores. The home side started the brighter with points from Pa O Sullivan and Colin O Connor. However, Dingle came back strongly and, with four unanswered points, they led midway through the half. Play was evenly balanced, the impressive Pa O Sullivan kicking a hat-trick of points, to put the home side ahead once more. Then Dingle responded with points by Mark Evans and David Geaney, but a late surge by the Rangers saw Liam Hassett and Billy O Shea score points to have them ahead at the break by 0-11 to 0-8.
The damage to the Dingle efforts was done in the third quarter for, on the changeover, the winners scored at will with Pa O Sullivan posing problems for the visitors. He landed three points without reply and, when Seamie Foley added another soon after, Rangers were in control. With four minutes left to play, the Rangers’ captain blasted to the Dingle net to secure victory, substitute Mike Frank Russell also adding points. Dingle’s goal from David Geaney was a consolation score. For Laune Rangers Eoin Ferris, Paul Costello, Pa Murphy, Terence Houlihan, Liam Hassett and Pa O Sullivan excelled. However, Rangers were worried at the injury to John Sheehan.
Laune Rangers: Tony Lyons, Brendan Fitzgerald, Eoin Ferris, Pa Murphy, Terence Houlihan (0-1), Paul Costello, Shane O Sullivan, Adrian Hassett, John Sheehan, Billy O Shea (0-1), Liam Hassett (0-1), Seamie Foley (0-3), Gerry O Brien, Pa O Sullivan (1-6), Colin O Connor (0-1). Subs: Pa Sheehan (0-1) for S. Foley, Mike Frank Russell (0-2) for J. Sheehan (inj.), Andrew O Regan for B. O Shea..
Ref: Dan Fitzpatrick (Waterville).
Laune Rangers finished in 3rd place in Div. 1 with 16 points.
Molyneaux Cup
Trainer – Joe Hayes.
Quarter-final on Wed. 3rd Sept. at Rathmore: Rathmore ‘B’ lost to Laune Rangers ‘B’.
Semi-final on Fri. 12th Sept. at Beaufort: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 0-15; Kilcummin ‘B’ 1-8.
Rangers got off to a good start and led by 0-5 to 0-0 at the end of the first quarter. Kilcummin responded with 0-4 but Rangers finished the half strongly to lead by 0-9 to 0-4 at the break. On the resumption, Kilcummin made a good comeback but excellent defending by Damien Harmon, John F. O Brien, Karl Falvey and Shane Harmon made scores difficult to come by. However, they did manage to score 0-4 and Rangers responded with 0-6. Near the end, Kilcummin succeeded in getting through for a goal but it was a case of too little too late.
Laune Rangers ‘B’: Shane Clifford (0-1), Mark Conway, Damien Harmon, Redmond Fitzgerald, Karl Falvey (0-1), John F. O Brien (0-1), Shane Harmon (0-1), Pierce Prendiville, Mark Healy, Billy O Sullivan (0-1), John Ahern (0-3), James O Shea, Joe Healy (0-2), Ger Purcell (0-5), John O Sullivan. Subs: Andrew O Regan for S. Harmon, Vinnie Costello for M. Healy.
Final on Sat. 4th Oct. at Fossa: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 4-14; Dr. Crokes ‘B’ 2-7.
Dr. Crokes had no answer to the scoring power of the Laune Rangers in that final. Despite the closeness of the early exchanges, the Rangers opened up in the second quarter and went in at the halftime break leading by 2-8 to 1-4. Although the Killarney side, mainly through the industry of Pat O Shea, came back fighting, the Killorglin side was too strong and they pushed their way to victory with an assured game.
Early scores by Jonathan Sparling (2) were replied to by Mark Healy and Pa Sheehan. Ger Noonan and Podge Foley swapped points to leave the sides level at the end of the first quarter. The Killorglin side then showed its teeth, when Billy O Sullivan was put through in the 20th minute and he made no mistake, blasting to the net. The Rangers added further points from Mark Healy, Joe Healy, Damien Harmon and John Ahern. When Billy O Sullivan rattled home his second goal before the break, it was obvious that Crokes were in trouble.
Derry O Sullivan opened the second half scoring with a lovely point and, when the Killorglin side added further points from Joe Healy and John O Sullivan, the game was as good as over. A good Rangers’ movement sliced open the Crokes’ defence for Billy O Sullivan to complete his hat-trick. Joe Healy added the fourth goal and Rangers, in total control, could have had some more scores but missed chances. After the game, Jerome Conway, Vice-Chairman of the Kerry Co. Board, presented the Molyneaux Cup to the winning captain, Pa Sheehan.
Laune Rangers: Vincent Costello, Mark Conway, Damien Harmon, Redmond Fitzgerald, John O Sullivan, John F. O Brien, Paul O Connor, Mark Healy, Pierce Prendiville, Pa Sheehan (capt.), John Ahern, Billy O Sullivan, Joe Healy, Podge Foley, Derry O Sullivan. Subs: Ger Purcell for J. Healy, Tim O Regan for M. Healy, Shane Harmon for J. O Sullivan, Andrew O Regan for V. Costello.
Ref: Dermot Clifford (Fossa).
Co. Senior Football League Div. 4
Rd. 1 on Sun. 16th March at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 0-7; Churchill 0-4.
Rd. 2 on Sun. 13th April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 2-8; Brosna 0-10.
Laune Rangers ‘B’: Shane Clifford, Redmond Fitzgerald, Mark Conway, Karl Falvey, Mark O Connor, John O Sullivan, Aidan Lynch, Pierce Prendiville, James O Shea, Paul O Connor, Jerry Coffey, Pa Sheehan, Joe Healy, Derry O Sullivan, Billy O Sullivan. Subs: Ger Purcell for J. Healy, Vinnie Costello for S. Clifford, Ross Sheehan for R. Fitzgerald.
Rd. 3 on Sun. 20th April at Cromane: Cromane 1-9; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 2-7.
Rangers, despite being short as many as nine of the regular team, was the better team throughout and led at halftime by 1-3 to 0-5. In the second half, with some fast-moving ball, they added to the score-line. Discipline was excellent throughout the game.
Laune Rangers ‘B’: Shane Clifford, Damien Harmon, Mark Conway, Redmond Fitzgerald, Karl Falvey, Pierce Prendiville, Mark Healy, Joe Healy, James O Shea, Pa Sheehan, Ger Purcell, John Ahern, Ross Sheehan. Subs: Jason Griffin for G. Purcell, Billy O Sullivan for J. Healy, Brian Curran for D. Harmon.
Rd. 3 on Sun. 4th May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 0-10; Renard 0-11.
Rd. 4 on Sun. 11th May at Ballyduff: Ballyduff 1-9; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 0-13.
The score at halftime was 0-6 apiece.
Laune Rangers: Vincent Costello, Karl Falvey, Damien Harmon, Brian Curran, Redmond Fitzgerald, John F. O Brien, Paul O Connor, Pierce Prendiville, Mark Healy, Pa Sheehan (capt.), John Ahern (0-8), James O Shea (0-1), Joe Healy (0-1), Podge Foley (0-2), Derry O Sullivan (0-1).
Rd. 5 on Sun. 8th June at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 0-19; Moyvane 0-9.
Rd. 6 on Sun. 15th June at Kilcummin: Kilcummin 2-12; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 0-10.
Rd. 7 on Sat. 26th July at Tuosist: Tuosist 1-14; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 0-7.
The final score flattered the home side somewhat, even though they deserved the win. Pa Sheehan had his cheekbone broken accidentally in that game.
Rd. 8 on Sat. 2nd Aug. at Duagh: Duagh 0-11; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 1-9.
Laune Rangers ‘B’: Shane Clifford, Damien Harmon, Mark Conway, Redmond Fitzgerald, Karl Falvey (0-1), John F. O Brien, Paul O Connor, Pierce Prendiville, Mark Healy, John Ahern (0-4), Billy O Sullivan (0-1), James O Shea, Derry O Sullivan, Podge Foley (1-1) capt, Joe Healy (0-2).
Rd. 9 on Sat. 16th Aug. at Fossa (old pitch): Laune Rangers ‘B’ 0-10; Listry 0-10.
Laune Rangers’ substitutes: Geoffrey O Mahony for Joe Healy, Tom Crowley for Maurice Foley, Ger Purcell for Billy O Sullivan. James O Shea was sent off by the referee, Brendan Twiss, as a result of a second yellow card. The referee reported that James O Shea hurdled abuse at him on his departure from the field, during the remaining ten minutes of the game and after the game. James O Shea wrote an apology to the Co. Board for his behaviour.
Rd. 10 on Sun. 28th Sept: Ballylongford 2-11; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 2-7.
Rd. 11 on Sat. 25th Oct. at Tarbert: Tarbert 0-7; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 0-7.
That draw cost Laune Rangers the Div. 4 title. It was always going to be a tricky assignment, travelling to Shannon Park, Tarbert, as the home side simply had to get the point they needed to become champions. In the end of what was a hard-fought, if uninspiring, encounter, Tarbert just about deserved their draw because, in kicking 13 wides over the hour to only four for the visitors, they had created far more scoring opportunities, even though there was never really too much between the sides. With difficult weather conditions making things tricky for both sets of players, the standard of football never rose above mediocrity, though the commitment from everybody could not be faulted. In a low-scoring first half, the sides were level on three occasions with Patsy O Connell and John Holly (2) on the mark for the home side and Podge Foley, Pa Sheehan and Derry O Sullivan replying for the visitors before Billy O Sullivan nudged Rangers ahead by 0-4 to 0-3 at the interval.
Two pointed frees by John Holly had Tarbert back in front early in the second half but a superb point by John Ahern had matters all tied up again by the 39th minute. Defences were on top with the likes Tarbert’s Deo O Connor and Laune Rangers’ Damien Harmon impressing in the fullback positions and it took the point of the game from Patsy O Connell in the 42nd minute to put the home team in the ascendancy once more (0-6 to 0-5). A scrambled point from Derry O Sullivan had Rangers level again entering the final ten minutes. The tension was hugely evident at that stage and two questionable refereeing decisions allowed Billy O Sullivan and John Holly to exchange pointed frees to keep the score-line deadlocked with time running out. Laune Rangers needed one more score to capture the divisional title but it just would not come. Most impressive for Rangers were Damien Harmon, John F. O Brien, Pa Sheehan, John Ahern and Derry O Sullivan.
Laune Rangers ‘B’: Shane Clifford, Mark Conway, Damien Harmon, Redmond Fitzgerald, Karl Falvey, John F. O Brien, John O Sullivan, Mark Healy, Pierce Prendiville, Pa Sheehan (0-1), John Ahern (0-1), Billy O Sullivan (0-2, 1 free), Paul O Connor, Podge Foley (0-1), Derry O Sullivan (0-2). Sub: Joe Healy for M. Conway.
Ref: Ger Lynch (Ballymac).
Promotion play-off on Sat. 10th Nov. at Strand Road: Ballylongford 1-9; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 0-8.
Despite the prize that was at stake, that game was an enjoyable and sporting affair from start to finish. The Ballylongford midfield partnership of Paddy Kelly and Paul O Donoghue was always on top against the Laune Rangers’ partnership of Mark Healy and 40 year-old Pierce Prendiville. However, the Rangers’ forwards did have their chances but poor finishing undermined their hopes of promotion from a division that they had dominated for much of that year’s campaign.
On an ideal day for football, Rangers registered the first score when full-forward Podge Foley pointed from play with five minutes gone. Eddie Mangan equalised for Ballylongford in the 7th minute but John Ahern, from a free, put Rangers ahead again in the 10th minute. Paul O Donoghue, Paddy Kelly and Eddie Mangan pointed to put the North-Kerry side two points clear as the game entered the second quarter. John Ahern kept Rangers in touch with a point from play but, despite their dominance, the Killorglin side could not add to their tally with some good scoring chances going a-begging and, at the break, Ballylongford led by the narrowest of margins.
Soon after the resumption, Kiki Mulvihill and John Ahern exchanged pointed frees but then, in the 34th minute, the winners’ full-forward Paul O Hanlon was in the right place to flick home a delightful goal. Paul O Donoghue and Brendan Bambury put Ballylongford six points clear entering the final minutes. John Ahern’s accuracy from frees kept Rangers in the hunt but Ballylongford, despite losing two players in the closing stages, had enough in the tank to hold out for victory.
Laune Rangers ‘B’: Shane Clifford, Brendan Fitzgerald, Karl Falvey, Shane Harmon, Paul O Connor, John F. O Brien, John O Sullivan, Mark Healy, Pierce Prendiville, Seamus Foley (0-1), John Ahern (0-6, 5 frees), Pa Sheehan, Joe Healy, Podge Foley (0-1), Derry O Sullivan. Subs: John E. Murphy for J. O Sullivan, James O Shea for D. O Sullivan.
Ref: Sean Kissane (Kerins O Rahillys).
Barrett Cup
Rd. 1 on Fri. 15th Aug: Laune Rangers ‘C’ 1-10; Kerins O Rahillys ‘C’ 2-4.
Quarter-final on Fri. 22nd Aug. at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘C’ defeated Ballydonoghue ‘B’.
Semi-final on Sun. 7th Sept. at Milltown: Laune Rangers ‘C’ 4-8; Keel ‘B’ 0-4.
Laune Rangers led at halftime by 2-5 to 0-2.
Laune Rangers ‘C’: Eddie Birmingham, N. O Sullivan, Conor Falvey, Robert Moriarty, Jonathan Carey (0-1), Shane Harmon (0-1), Andrew O Reilly, Morgan Foley, Maurice Foley, Dave Corry (1-0), S. Purcell (0-2), John Falvey, Jason Griffin (1-1), Thomas McGillycuddy (1-1), Geoffrey O Mahony (1-2).
Final on Sun. 16th Nov. at Cordal: Austin Stacks C 2-6; Laune Rangers ‘C’ 0-7.
Laune Rangers had to wait for some time without a game for that final while Austin Stacks came well-prepared into the game. Aidan Corkery reported on the game for the Kerryman: “Fireworks and fisticuffs marked Sunday’s Barrett Cup final in which Austin Stacks deservedly beat Laune Rangers to retain possession of the cup. However, Stacks’ victory was marred by a pitch invasion, which halted the game’s proceedings for five minutes during the second half. The pitch-invasion began when Laune Rangers’ player Paul Griffin landed on the ground with an Austin Stacks’ player on top of him. Other players became involved in the scuffle before a number of predominantly Austin Stacks supporters ran on to the pitch and added to the sense of chaos. During this time Paul Griffin appeared to be kicked by a supporter before referee Sean McElligott succeeded in restoring order with the help of some players and supporters. At the bottom of the heap of bodies, Griffin was last to emerge and looked the worse for wear for the incident. Unsurprisingly, he was substituted later in this bad-tempered game.
The crowd trouble is all the more surprising considering this was never a particularly tense game. Austin Stacks easily looked the better side and never realistically looked like losing after they went ahead on eight minutes, courtesy of an opportunistic Peter Williams’ goal. His score put Stacks 1-0 to 0-2 ahead and was quickly followed by a free from Michael Hogan along with a well-taken point from Billy Curtin. Geoffrey O Mahony brought Laune Rangers back to within two points on 15 minutes when he converted a free. However, this wasn’t a close-fought game and Stacks’ backline was very convincing, blocking down shots on a number of occasions and stifling the threat of Rangers’ main danger-man, Tom McGillycuddy. By 18 minutes, Stacks were 1-3 to 0-3 after Anthony Moriarty latched on to a Garrett Clifford pass. Minutes later, Moriarty was at it again, giving Eddie Birmingham no chance, slamming the ball into the back of the net, putting Stacks in front by 2-3 to 0-3 at halftime.
The second half resumed. Laune Rangers did succeed in staging something of a mini-revival. John Falvey knocked over a good point from out on the right wing, while this was followed by a Paul Griffin free. Geoffrey O Mahony benefited from another free, which had been brought forward, to bring Rangers within three points. Midway through the second half, the melee broke out, casting a shadow on the game. When the game resumed, Michael Hogan struck over a good point, before Geoffrey O Mahony converted another free for the Killorglin men. This was to be Laune Rangers last score, however, and two converted frees from Joey O Connor ensured the Barrett Cup was going back to Connolly Park.”
Laune Rangers ‘C’: Eddie Birmingham, Gerard O Sullivan, Conor Falvey, Robert Moriarty, Andrew O Reilly, Shane Harmon, Jonathan Carey, Morgan Foley, Maurice Foley, David Coffey, Paul Griffin (0-1, free), John Falvey (0-2, 1 free), Paul McKenna (0-1), Tom McGillycuddy, Geoffrey O Mahony (0-3, frees). Subs: Jody O Riordan for R. Moriarty, Vinnie Griffin for D. Coffey, Darragh Burns for P. McKenna, Noel Conroy for J. Carey.
Ref: Sean McElligott (Knocknagoshel).
Co. Junior Football League (Div. 1)
Rd. 2 on Fri. 16th May at Gallerus: An Ghaeltacht ‘B’ 0-11; Laune Rangers ‘C’ 1-8.
Having played against the wind in the first half, Rangers only trailed by 0-5 to 0-6 at the break.
Laune Rangers ‘C’: D. McAuliffe, Robert Foley, Eddie Birmingham, Robert Moriarty, Shane Harmon (0-1), Karl Falvey, Geoffrey O Mahony (0-1), John Ahern (0-3), Morgan Foley, Donncha Curran, Trevor Gannon, Derry O Sullivan (0-1), Mikey Griffin, Podge Foley (0-2), Paul McKenna (1-0).
Rd. 4 on Fri. 30th May at Listowel: Emmett’s ‘B’ 1-10; Laune Rangers ‘C’ 2-12.
Rd. 5 on Fri. 6th June: Laune Rangers ‘C’ defeated John Mitchels ‘B’ by 3 points.
Rd. 7 on Fri. 27th June at Rathmore: Rathmore ‘B’ 1-16; Laune Rangers ‘C’ 2-10.
Rd. 8 on Fri. 4th July at Dingle: Dingle ‘B’ 1-15; Laune Rangers ‘C’ 1-6.
Rd. 9 on Fri. 11th July at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘C’ lost to Glenflesk ‘B’ by 3 points.
Rd. 6 on Fri. 25th July at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘C’ defeated Desmonds ‘B’.
Mid-Kerry Senior Football Championship
Semi-final on Sun. 16th Nov. at Milltown: Milltown/Castlemaine 0-7; Laune Rangers 0-8.
Though that was not a great game of football, for sheer intense championship fervour, it was right up there at the top of the list, as the home side threw everything at the beaten county finalists in an effort to dethrone them at district level. However, missed opportunities cost them dearly and it was Laune Rangers that marched on to the final.
Rangers started the better and held a three-point lead after the first quarter. Billy O Shea, operating on the ‘40’, opened the scoring with a point in the 3rd minute. That was quickly nullified by a Mike Burke fisted effort. Billy O Shea restored Rangers’ lead before Tony Lyons saved well from a Gavin Wrenn goal-bound effort. Billy O Shea added his third point in the 12th minute and then Colin O Connor made it 0-4 to 0-1 two minutes later. Paul Costello and Alfie Giles were shown yellow cards before an Ian Twiss point narrowed the gap in the 17th minute. A superb 20th minute movement saw Pa O Sullivan finish off an attacking phase that started off in the Rangers’ fullback line, but the home side’s response was immediate and three unanswered points brought the teams level (Derek Twiss 0-2, frees and Ian Twiss 0-1) at 0-5 each with three minutes to go to the break. Rangers finished the stronger and points from Pa O Sullivan in the 28th and 30th minutes, one from play and the other from a free, meant that they went in at the interval leading by 0-7 to 0-5.
On the resumption, scores were hard to come by. There was plenty of action and thrills as, firstly, Gary Murphy saved a Brian Gannon fisted effort and then Ian Twiss, with his third point from play, closed the gap to one. Rangers then introduced Adrian Hassett for Paul Costello, who had been given a testing time by Alfie Giles. Adrian Hassett went to midfield and Johnny Lynch was switched to centre halfback. On the three-quarter mark, Rangers could have, and should have, goaled. Brian Gannon beat the advancing Gary Murphy and, with the goal gaping, opted to pass to the surprised Seamus Foley, who failed to connect. Milltown/Castlemaine cleared their lines and, two minutes later, they were level, when Shane Murphy set up Donal Kelliher to point. With the sides level, the home side then had a great chance to sneak ahead. The Rangers’ defence was caught out, as substitute Shane Murphy got possession in front of goal. His shot looked goal-bound but goalkeeper Tony Lyons turned it away for a ‘45’.
With five minutes to play came the winning score. Seamus Foley was fouled in possession and Pa O Sullivan converted the 13m free. It was hell for leather in the closing minutes, as Milltown/Castlemaine went in search of the equaliser. They did have an opportunity in the shape of an Ian Twiss free but, on that occasion, it was waved emphatically wide by umpire Patsy Joy, as the ball drifted well to the left. With that went the home side’s last chance of another bite of the cherry and, when the referee blew the final whistle, it was Laune Rangers who, once again, had advanced to the Mid-Kerry final. They were best served on the day by Brendan Fitzgerald, Shane O Sullivan, Seamus Foley, Billy O Shea and Pa O Sullivan.
Laune Rangers: Tony Lyons, Brendan Fitzgerald, Eoin Ferris, Pa Murphy, Noel Lynch, Paul Costello, Shane O Sullivan, Johnny Lynch, Liam Hassett, Seamus Foley, Billy O Shea (0-3), MF Russell, Brian Gannon, Pa O Sullivan (0-4, 2 frees) capt, Colin O Connor (0-1). Sub: Adrian Hassett for P. Costello.
Ref: Michael Devane (Annascaul).
Final on Sun. 30th Nov. at Beaufort: Beaufort 0-10; Laune Rangers 1-10.
Mike O Carroll reported for the Kerryman as follows: “Years of experience in tight situations, plus that little bit of craft and guile, ensured that Laune Rangers put back-to-back Mid-Kerry Senior Football Championship titles together in this keenly-contested final at Pete Coughlan Park, Beaufort. They had to fight all the way for this one and, indeed, had the Beaufort forwards turned the possession, which their midfield domination yielded them for periods, then they would have surely won the day. As it was, the home side were too reliant on the scoring power of ace-forward, Dan Doona. He ended up with a total of seven points, six of them coming from placed balls.
This final was originally fixed for the Paddy Burke Memorial Park, Milltown, but, due to excess surface water early on Saturday, it was deemed unplayable after a pitch inspection. Both clubs agreed to toss for venue and, when the coin fell in favour of Beaufort, they must have felt that the omens were good. Having dealt comfortably with the threat of Keel in the semi-final, while watching Rangers struggle to overcome Milltown/Castlemaine, the yellow and blues from under the Reeks were entitled to feel that they had a right good chance. Both sides made one change from their original selection, with Pa Murphy coming in for Noel Lynch in the Rangers’ fullback line and Donal Hartnett replacing Padraig O Sullivan in the Beaufort half-forward line. From the throw-in, Rangers respected the threat posed by Doona by switching county player, John Sheehan, from centre-back to fullback, with Pa Murphy slotting into the central position and Eoin Ferris moving to corner-back.
The game was only a minute old when the first score came. Brian Gannon fed Mike Frank Russell, who was fouled in possession, and Russell successfully converted the resulting free. Two minutes later, the sides were level, when Beaufort’s corner-forward, Michael O Sullivan, rose high to punch an incoming Dan Doona free between the posts. With both sets of backs tight on their opponents, scores were hard to come by, but Pa O Sullivan finished off a wonderful eight-man movement to restore the lead to Rangers in the 9th minute. Mike Frank Russell saw an effort by him come off the upright. Thirteen is unlucky for some and so it proved for Beaufort, as it was in that minute that Rangers struck for the game’s only goal – and it was the score that ultimately decided matters. Liam Hassett took a free out around the centre, Brian Gannon won possession and he neatly flicked to the in-running Colin O Connor. Showing agility and fleet-footedness, O Connor skipped a tackle and crashed the ball to the net, giving Beaufort goalkeeper, Mike Moriarty, no chance. This meant that Rangers held a four-point advantage, 1-2 to 0-1, after the first quarter. In previous years, such an early advantage would not be pulled back, but, on this occasion, Beaufort were having none of it.
Inside eight minutes, they were level, thanks to four unanswered points. (Dan Doona with 3, 2 frees, and Vincent O Donoghue). It was all square, 1-2 to 0-5, with five minutes of the first half remaining. But, as in the semi-final, Rangers struck for two crucial points before the break, to give them a vital advantage. Brendan Fitzgerald cleared a dangerous situation before Mike Frank Russell put over a majestic point for the Killorglin side after good work by Billy O Shea and Pa O Sullivan. Russell was then fouled and O Sullivan slotted over the free, to leave Rangers ahead by 1-4 to 0-5 at the break.
On the restart, Beaufort introduced Padraig O Sullivan for his brother Michael and they started the better, Doona again pointing from a free. Even at this early stage of the second half, it was clear that very little would separate the sides and that it could go down to the wire. That’s the way it panned out, with both sides giving everything and there were some magnificent displays on both sides that warmed the hearts of the large crowd on a bitterly cold afternoon. Brian Gannon put two points between them again before Mike Frank Russell shot wide in the 40th minute. This was Rangers’ first wide of the game. Doona was again on target and, on the three-quarter mark, Beaufort might well have taken the lead but for the alertness of Lyons. Martin Breen won the ball well in defence before Damien Breen and Doona combined to send midfielder Gary McGrath through on goal. McGrath shot from close range, but his effort was smothered by goalkeeper, Tony Lyons, who turned it out for a ‘45’ – a ‘45’ that Doona put over to restore parity once again as the game entered the last quarter.
At this stage, one felt that if Beaufort could take the lead, then, urged on by a big swell of home support, they could well hold out to the final whistle. However, it was Rangers who again upped the anti and they struck for two points in as many minutes from Seamus Foley and Mike Frank Russell. Yet this did not deflate the home side’s challenge and Damien Breen replied after being set up by a good Gary McGrath delivery. Then, in a matter of minutes, came the proof of how much a slice of luck either way can determine where the destination of the spoils of victory lie in tight championship games. In the 52 nd minute, Doona hoisted the ball towards two inrushing Beaufort forwards. Lyons, in the Rangers’ goal, committed himself but the ball deceived all, dropping behind Lyons and heading for the empty goal. Out of nowhere came Eoin Ferris to sweep up the danger and so keep the Rangers’ goal intact.
Beaufort kept trying and were rewarded when, after wing-back Eanna O Malley was fouled, Doona struck over his 7th point of the afternoon – five minutes left, sides level, still all to play for. Beaufort were gaining momentum for a grandstand finish, but, in the space of a minute, all that changed. They gained possession in the back line and were working the ball out when in nipped Billy O Shea to intercept Ger Doyle’s intended delivery. With Beaufort caught on the back-foot, O Shea passed the ball to captain Pa O Sullivan and he broke Beaufort hearts by scoring his third and most vital point of the afternoon. Rangers could now sense victory. They hunted and closed down the play in packs and, in the 60th minute, Billy O Shea was again involved when he was upended straight in front of goal. Mike Frank put two points between them and, in injury time, John Sheehan, who was now at midfield, finished a move involving Brian Gannon and Colin O Connor to make sure of his side’s victory. Three minutes into injury time came Beaufort’s last chance to salvage something from the game. Dan Doona lobbed a free into the goal-mouth in the hope that somebody might get a finger or toe to connect to the net. However, it was Sheehan who rose highest to claim possession and, when he had cleared the danger, referee Brendan Twiss blew the final whistle.
It meant that the Laune-siders had gained some compensation from a year that saw them denied the Co. Championship title. Overall, one could say that Rangers just about deserved their victory. They showed character when hauled back on a number of occasions by a spirited and gutsy Beaufort side. One fo the factors in the Blues’ victory also was the fact that they were able to last the pace better in the closing stages when, indeed, it came down to survival of the fittest – a testament no doubt to the effort put in to reach the Co. Senior Championship final. In the backline, Rangers were best served by goalkeeper Tony Lyons, whose save from Gary McGrath was crucial, Brendan Fitzgerald, Paul Costello and John Sheehan, whose clash with Dan Doona was one of the features of the match. At midfield, Johnny Lynch and Liam Hassett did not have things their own way and, indeed, they had to play second-fiddle to Gary McGrath and Pa Doyle until the latter two seemed to tire. As a unit, the Killorglin forward-line was craftier and worked better with and for each other. Seamus Foley was everywhere and Billy O Shea worked tirelessly, as did Gannon and Pa O Sullivan. Colin O Connor was causing all sorts to problems until Kevin O Brien switched on him and Mike Frank Russell had a good day at the office. He was their top scorer with four points and his general overall play was good.”
Afterwards the Chairman of the Mid-Kerry Board, John Twiss, presented the O Connor Cup to the winning captain, Pa O Sullivan. The man-of-the-match award, sponsored by Edso Crowley of The Fishery Bar, was presented to Seamus Foley, who was a popular and merited choice.
Laune Rangers: Tony Lyons, Pa Murphy, Eoin Ferris, Brendan Fitzgerald, Paul Costello, John Sheehan (0-1), Shane O Sullivan, Johnny Lynch, Liam Hassett, Seamus Foley (0-1), Billy O Shea, Mike Frank Russell (0-4, 2 frees), Brian Gannon (0-1), Pa O Sullivan (0-3, 1 free) capt., Colin O Connor (1-0). Subs: Terence Houlihan for S. O Sullivan, Adrian Hassett, Gerry O Brien, Jerry Coffey, Mark Conway, Pa Sheehan, Redmond Fitzgerald, Paul O Connor, Andrew O Regan, Karl Falvey.
Ref: Brendan Twiss (Milltown/Castlemaine).
Laune Rangers – 2003 Mid-Kerry Senior Football Champions
Front: Paul Costello, Karl Falvey, Mark Conway, Pa Sheehan, Terence Houlihan, Billy O Shea, Seamie Foley, Pa O Sullivan (capt.), Colin O Connor, Tony Lyons, John Edmund Murphy, Mike Frank Russell.
Back: John Sheehan, Paul O Connor, Andrew O Regan, Redmond Fitzgerald, Pa Murphy, Eoin Ferris, Liam Hassett, Brendan Fitzgerald, Johnny Lynch, Brian Gannon, Shane O Sullivan, Adrian Hassett, Jerry O Brien.
Pa O Sullivan (captain) received the O Connor Cup from John Twiss, Chairman Mid-Kerry Board.
Mid-Kerry Senior Football League
Laune Rangers entered two teams into that competition.
Div. 2 Rd. 1 on Sun. 16th Feb: Glenbeigh/Glencar 0-9; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 2-9.
Laune Rangers led at halftime by 1-5 to 0-6.
Laune Rangers ‘B’: Shane Clifford, Brian Curran, Mark Conway, Aidan Lynch, Pa Sheehan, John F. O Brien, Mark O Connor, Mark Healy, Pierce Prendiville, Paul O Connor, Jerry Coffey, Joe Healy, Cian Evans, Ross Sheehan, Karl Falvey.
Div. 1 Rd. 1on Sun. 23rd Feb. at Keel: Keel 0-9; Laune Rangers ‘A’ 1-17.
Div. 2 Rd. 2 on Sun. 23rd Feb. at Cromane: Cromane 0-10; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 1-4.
Div. 1 Rd. 2 on Sun. 2nd March at Beaufort: Milltown/Castlemaine 1-7; Laune Rangers ‘A’ 0-9.
Div. 2 Rd. 3 on Sun. 2nd March at Beaufort: Beaufort 4-11; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 0-7.
Semi-final on Sun. 9th March at Cloon: Laune Rangers ‘A’ 0-6; Beaufort 1-8.
That was the first time in 15 years that Laune Rangers did not contest the Senior League final. Without the Kerry players, Liam Hassett and John Sheehan, Laune Rangers looked out of sorts and only Paul Costello and Eoin Ferris performed up to scratch.
Ref: Brendan Twiss (Milltown/Castlemaine)
Mid-Kerry O Sullivan Cup
Laune Rangers’ and Beaufort ‘B’ teams competed with the ‘A’ teams from the other clubs.
Rd. 1 on Sun. 25th May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ defeated Milltown/Castlemaine.
Semi-final on Wed. 28th May at Beaufort: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 1-9; Keel 1-8.
Final on Wed. 16th July at Glenbeigh: Cromane 1-8; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 1-5.
A goal 12 minutes from the final whistle proved decisive as Cromane put back-to-back O Sullivan Cup titles together in that final played in wintry conditions in Glenbeigh. The heavy rain that had fallen all day made underfoot conditions very slippery and, while the playing surface was in fine condition, players found it very difficult to keep their feet all through the game. As a result, scores were hard to come by and it was not until late in the game, when limbs tired and gaps appeared, that the scoring percentages rose.
Cromane played towards the road-goals in the opening half and they were first on the score-board when, in the 3rd minute, Sean O Sullivan slotted over. John Ahern and John F. O Brien had wides before Rangers equalised when, in the 10th minute, Podge Foley fielded well, turned and pointed. Rangers took the lead in the 15th minute. A fine movement involving John O Sullivan, Pa Sheehan and John Ahern, ended with the latter being fouled and he converted the free. The nearest any side came to a goal in that opening half was in the 27th minute, when a high ball broke between Rangers’ goalkeeper Shane Clifford and the inrushing Donncha Walsh. The ball looked to be heading for the net but Rangers prevented it from crossing the line. However, they failed to clear and a resulting free saw Sean O Sullivan equalise. Maurice O Shea and Billy O Sullivan both missed chances to give their sides the lead before, just on the stroke of halftime, a move that started in their backline saw the impressive Pa Sheehan split the posts for Rangers and leave them leading by 0-3 to 0-2 at the break.
On the resumption, Rangers started the better and John Ahern, with a pointed free after a foul on Redmond Fitzgerald, made it 0-4 to 0-2. Billy O Sullivan then added another when he really should have goaled after being set up by Pa Sheehan. All that took place inside the first three minutes and it looked as if Rangers might open a more substantial lead. However, things did not work out that way and they went a full 26 minutes without scoring. Paudie McCarthy and Sean O Sullivan (free) reduced the deficit. Aidan O Connor tied up matters on 0-5 each right on the three-quarter mark. O Sullivan pointed another free and then came the crucial score. Donncha Walsh fielded a great ball on the edge of the Rangers’ small square, turned and rattled the net. Entering the last ten minutes, Cromane still held that four-point lead. Sean O Sullivan knocked over his sixth point and JP McCarthy kicked over their last score. Rangers did get a consolation goal in injury time when Morgan Foley rose highest to gather and dispatch to the net. However, it was too little too late.
Most impressive for Rangers were Redmond Fitzgerald, John F. O Brien, John Ahern, Podge Foley and Pa Sheehan.
That game had originally been scheduled for Sun. 29th June at Glenbeigh, but Cromane refused to play due to the unavailability of Sean O Sullivan.
Laune Rangers ‘B’: Shane Clifford, Damien Harmon, Mark Conway, Redmond Fitzgerald, Karl Falvey, John O Sullivan, John F. O Brien, Pierce Prendiville, Mark Healy, Pa Sheehan (capt.) 0-1, John Ahern (0-2, frees), James O Shea, Billy O Sullivan (0-1), Podge Foley (0-1), Paul O Connor. Subs: Morgan Foley (1-0) for P. Prendiville, Joe Healy for J. O Shea.
Ref: Michael Devane (Annascaul).
Mid-Kerry ‘B’ Football Championship
Five teams entered the competition: Keel ‘B’, Milltown/Castlemaine ‘B’, Glenbeigh/Glencar ‘B’, Beaufort ‘B’ and Laune Rangers ‘B’.
Rd. 1 on Tues. 1st April at Glenbeigh: Glenbeigh/Glencar ‘B’ lost to Laune Rangers ‘B’.
Rd. 2 on Tues. 8th April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ defeated Milltown/Castlemaine ‘B’.
Rd. 3 on Tues. 22nd April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ Beaufort ‘B’.
Rd. 4 on Tues. 29th April: Laune Rangers ‘B’ defeated Keel ‘B’.
Final on Thurs. 8th May at Beaufort: Beaufort ‘B’ 0-9; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 0-4.
Co. U-21 Football Championship
Rd. 1 on Wed. 9th July at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 0-6; Austin Stacks 1-11.
Laune Rangers: Shane Clifford, Noel Lynch, Conor Falvey, Darren O Riordan, David Coffey, Damien Harmon, Aidan Lynch, Mark Healy, Tim O Regan, Paul O Connor, Seamus Foley, Ross Sheehan, Paul McKenna, Andrew O Regan, Colin O Connor. Subs: Vinnie Griffin for P. McKenna, Peter Slattery for C. O Connor.
Shield
Thurs. 31st July at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 1-13; Kenmare 0-10.
Semi-final on Sun. 23rd Nov. at Kilcummin: Laune Rangers defeated Kerins O Rahillys.
Final on Sun. 7th Dec. at Beaufort: East-Kerry 2-14; Laune Rangers 1-6.
East-Kerry cruised to a fairly easy victory at the expense of Laune Rangers in that final. The eventual score-line was a bit flattering to the winners but, nevertheless, they were the more organised and better-balanced outfit. They allowed Rangers to come within striking distance in the third quarter but they then upped their performance, registering 2-4 in the last twelve minutes.
The opening ten minutes were evenly contested, with Padraig Kelly and Ronan McAuliffe scoring for the winners, while Colin O Connor, from a free, and Tim O Regan found the target for Rangers. Ronan McAuliffe kicked two East-Kerry points, one from a free. Colin O Connor converted a Laune Rangers’ free to narrow the gap to the minimum but the winners doubled the advantage with further points from Tadhg Ahern and Domhnall O Sullivan. Then, there was an exchange of points between O Connor (free) and Kieran Herlihy to leave the halftime score at 0-7 to 0-4 in favour of East-Kerry.
McAuliffe and Donovan extended the East-Kerry lead to five points but Laune Rangers adopted a more straight-forward approach and, with Tim O Regan and Seamus Foley showing good industry at midfield, they took the game to their opponents. Thomas McGillycuddy was to the fore in his new position at centre halfback, while fullback, Conor Falvey, and wing-back, Mark Healy, enjoyed good moments in defence. Colin O Connor, from a free, and a good effort from Andrew O Regan reduced the arrears to three points. Ross Donovan got one back for the winners but, in the 48th minute, Seamus Foley burst through the East-Kerry defence to score a goal. That was the wake-up call that East-Kerry needed and they completely dominated the remainder of the game. In the 56th minute, Rangers’ custodian William Byrne failed to hold a high delivery from Ross Donovan and it slipped into the net for East-Kerry’s first goal. Shortly afterwards, Ronan McAuliffe finished off a movement to the net and that was that.
Laune Rangers: William Byrne, David Coffey, Conor Falvey, Aidan Lynch, Mark Healy, Seamus Foley (1-0), Paul O Connor, Tim O Regan (0-1), Andrew O Regan (0-1), Ross Sheehan, Thomas McGillycuddy, Vinnie Griffin, David O Sullivan, Colin O Connor (0-4), Paul McKenna. Sub: Francis Russell for D. O Sullivan.
Ref: Barry Clifford (Sneem).
Mid-Kerry U-21 Football Championship
Semi-final on Tues. 1st July at Beaufort: Laune Rangers defeated Glenbeigh/Glencar by 3 points.
Final on 28th Dec. at Cromane: Laune Rangers Beaufort.
The final had originally been scheduled for Sun. 19th Oct., the Sunday before the Co. SFC Final, Laune Rangers v Gaeltacht. Laune Rangers had sought a postponement, Beaufort agreed to facilitate the request but, initially, Mid-Kerry refused. When Laune Rangers threatened to withdraw from the competition, and did not show for the final, the Mid-Kerry Board fined the club €500
Co. Minor Football Championship
Rd. 1 on Tues. 15th July at Connolly Park: Austin Stacks defeated Laune Rangers.
Co. Minor Football Shield
Quarter-final on Thurs. 7th Aug. at Kenmare: Kenmare lost to Laune Rangers.
Semi-final on Tues. 2nd Sept. at Keel: St. Brendan’s defeated Laune Rangers.
Co. Minor Football League (Div. 1)
Rd. 1 on Fri. 4th April at Ballyduff: Ballyduff Laune Rangers.
Rd. 2 on Fri. 11th April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 3-7; Austin Stacks 3-13.
Laune Rangers trailed at halftime by 2-2 to 1-9.
Laune Rangers: Vinnie Costello, John McKenna, Jodie Riordan, T. Clifford, Jonathan Carey, Jerry Coffey, Kieran Crowley, Maurice Foley, Stuart Delaney, Eoin O Mahony, Darragh O Shea, Luke Dunlea, John Houlihan, Michael Ledwith, Aidan O Sullivan.
Rd. 3 on Sat. 19th April at Strand Road: Kerins O Rahillys 1-14; Laune Rangers 1-6.
That was a game of the proverbial ‘two-halves’. O Rahillys led by 0-9 to 0-0 at halftime. Rangers pulled out all the stops in the second half but it was not enough.
Rd. 4 on Mon. 21st April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 0-8; Dr. Crokes 1-8.
Rd. 6 on Fri. 2nd May at Beaufort: Beaufort 3-10; Laune Rangers 0-10.
Beaufort led at halftime by 2-4 to 0-7.
Rd. 7on Fri. 9th May at Killorglin: Dingle 1-16; Laune Rangers 3-9.
Mid-Kerry Minor Football Championship
Rd. 1 on Sat. 22nd Nov. at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 0-5; Keel/Cromane 0-11.
Mid-Kerry Minor Football League
Rd. 3 on Tues. 2nd Sept. at Glenbeigh: Glenbeigh/Glencar Laune Rangers.
Rd. 4 on Tues. 19th Aug. at Killorglin: Laune Rangers Beaufort.
Rd. 1 on Tues. 23rd Sept. at Milltown: Milltown/Castlemaine 1-8; Laune Rangers 1-2.
Semi-final on Mon. 27th Oct. at Keel: Beaufort w/o; Laune Rangers scr.
Tralee District Board Minor Football League
Group ‘A’
Sun. 9th March at Killeen: Na Gaeil Laune Rangers
Co. U-16 Inter-Divisional Boards’ Football Championship
Rd. 1 on Sun. 31st Aug. at Milltown: Mid-Kerry 2-10; Shannon Rangers 1-11.
Quarter-final on Sun. 14th Sept. at Milltown: Mid-Kerry 1-10; South-Kerry 2-14.
Co. U-16 Football Championship
Division 1 consisted of Kerins O Rahillys, Austin Stacks, Beaufort, Spa, Dingle, Laune Rangers, Dr. Crokes and Emmett’s. Trainers – Colm Conway, Pat O Riordan and Donncha Curran.
The panel consisted of Sean Joy, Michael Quirke, John Sheehan, Simon Brosnan, Gearoid Healy, Liam Clifford, Gary Flynn, Sean O Riordan, Shane Crowley, Mikey O Sullivan, Luke Dunlea, Ricky O Connor, Colin O Dwyer, Timothy Brosnan, Pascal O Brien, Laurence O Connor, Tom Collins, James Flynn and J.J. Foley.
Rd. 1 on Mon. 23rd June at Spa: Spa 4-11; Laune Rangers 3-8.
It was an evenly contested first half and the sides were level approaching the break. However, two goals in the dying minutes saw Spa ahead by 2-3 to 0-3 at halftime. Within a minute of the restart, Sean o Connor goaled for Rangers and, although he scored a second and Gary Flynn also found the net, Spa ran out worthy winners.
Laune Rangers: Sean Joy, Simon Brosnan, John Sheehan, Laurence O Connor, Timmy Brosnan, Rodi Healy, JJ Foley, Luke Dunlea (0-1), Liam Clifford (0-1) capt., Mikey O Sullivan (0-1), Michael Quirke (0-2), Shane Crowley, Colin O Dwyer (0-1), Sean Tomás O Connor (2-0), Gary Flynn (1-2). Subs: Brian Ahern, Brian Prendiville, Brian Hayes, Fergus O Riordan.
Rd. 2 on Mon. 30th June at Dingle: Dingle 2-17; Laune Rangers 0-7.
Laune Rangers: Sean Joy, Simon Brosnan, John Sheehan, Brian Hayes, JJ Foley, Michael Quirke (0-1), Timmy Brosnan, Sean O Riordan (0-4, 3 frees), Luke Dunlea, Shane Crowley, Liam Clifford (0-1), Fergus O Riordan, Gary Flynn, Sean T. O Connor (0-1), Colin O Dwyer. Sub: Brian Ahern for F. O Riordan.
Rd. 3 on Mon. 7th July at JP O Sullivan Park: Laune Rangers 1-12; Dr. Crokes 1-12.
Laune Rangers: Sean Joy, Simon Brosnan, John Sheehan, Laurence O Connor, Timmy Brosnan, Rodi Healy, JJ Foley, Sean O Riordan (0-4, 3 frees), Liam Clifford (0-1) capt., Shane Crowley (0-2), Michael Quirke, Mikey O Sullivan, Gary Flynn (1-4), Sean T. O Connor, Colin O Dwyer (0-1). Sub: Pascal O Brien for T. Brosnan.
Rd. 4 on Mon. 14th July at JP O Sullivan Park: Laune Rangers 0-11; Kerins O Rahillys 1-14.
Laune Rangers: Sean Joy, Timmy Brosnan, Simon Brosnan, Laurence O Connor, Pascal O Brien, Rodi Healy, John Flynn, Liam Clifford (0-1), Luke Dunlea (0-1), Sean O Riordan (0-6, 5 frees), Michael Quirke (0-1), JJ Foley, Colin O Dwyer, Sean T. O Connor, Gary Flynn (0-2). Subs: Kevin Flynn for J. Flynn, David Pigott for C. O Dwyer, Fergus O Riordan for JJ Foley. Brian Ahern and Brian Hayes left the field before halftime in protest at not being put on as first substitutes.
Rd. 5 on Mon. 21st July at Beaufort: Beaufort 1-7; Laune Rangers 5-5.
That was a terrific win against their near rivals in a very entertaining game. Rangers began brightly and led at halftime on the score-line of 3-4 to 0-3, thanks to goals from JJ Foley and two from Gary Flynn. The Killorglin side maintained that momentum in the second half with further goals from Liam Clifford and Luke Dunlea. Rangers withstood a brave onslaught from the home team but sterling defence allowed Rangers to leave with a well-deserved victory.
Laune Rangers: Sean Joy, Simon Brosnan, John Sheehan, Laurence O Connor, Timmy Brosnan, Rodi Healy, Pascal O Brien, Luke Dunlea (1-1), Sean O Riordan (0-3, 2 frees), JJ Foley (1-0), Liam Clifford (1-0) capt., Michael Quirke, Colin O Dwyer, Sean T. O Connor, Gary Flynn (2-1, 1 pen.). Subs: Brian Ahern, Brian Hayes, Brian Prendiville, Fergus O Riordan, David Pigott.
Rd. 6 on Mon. 28th July at JP O Sullivan Park: Laune Rangers 3-7; Listowel Emmett’s 2-6.
Laune Rangers: Sean Joy, Simon Brosnan, John Sheehan, Laurence O Connor, Pascal O Brien, Rodi Healy, Timmy Brosnan, Luke Dunlea (1-0), Sean O Riordan (0-4, 1 free), Michael Quirke (0-1), Liam Clifford (1-0), JJ Foley, Colin O Dwyer, Sean T. O Connor (1-1), Gary Flynn (0-1). Subs: Fergus O Riordan, John Flynn, Kevin Flynn, David Pigott, Tom Collins.
Rd. 7 on Thurs. 7th Aug. at JP O Sullivan Park: Laune Rangers 0-8; Austin Stacks 1-13.
Laune Rangers: Sean Joy, Laurence O Connor, John Sheehan, Simon Brosnan, Pascal O Brien, Rodi Healy, Timmy Brosnan, Luke Dunlea (0-1), Sean O Riordan (0-4, 3 frees), JJ Foley, Liam Clifford, Michael Quirke (0-1), John Flynn (0-1), Sean T. O Connor (0-1), Colin O Dwyer. Subs: Kevin Flynn, Fergus O Riordan, David Pigott, Gary Flynn (inj.), Tom Collins (inj.).
Mid-Kerry U-16 Football Championship
Rd. 1 on Wed. 26th March at Cloon: Laune Rangers 1-6; Milltown/Castlemaine 3-11.
Laune Rangers: Sean Joy, Timmy Brosnan, Simon Brosnan, Laurence O Connor, John Sheehan, Rodi Healy, Pascal O Brien, James Flynn (0-1), Liam Clifford (0-1), Michael Quirke, Sean O Riordan, Shane Crowley (1-1), Colin O Dwyer (0-1), Brian Hayes, Gary Flynn (0-2, frees) capt. Subs: Tom Collins for S. Brosnan, JJ Foley for B. Hayes, Mikey O Sullivan for J. Sheehan, Brian Ahern, Brian Prendiville, Fergus O Riordan.
Rd. 2 on Wed. 2nd April at Cromane: Cromane/Listry 2-7; Laune Rangers 1-11.
Laune Rangers: Sean Joy, Timmy Brosnan, Simon Brosnan, Laurence O Connor, Tom Collins, Rodi Healy (0-1), Pascal O Brien, James Flynn (0-1), Liam Clifford, Michael Quirke, Sean O Riordan (0-4, 2 frees), Mikey O Sullivan (0-1), JJ Foley (0-2), Gary Flynn (1-2), Colin O Dwyer. Subs: Brian Ahern, David Pigott, Brian Hayes, Fergus O Riordan and John Sheehan (inj.).
Rd. 3 on Wed. 9th April at Glenbeigh: Glenbeigh/Glencar 1-7; Laune Rangers 2-19.
Laune Rangers began well and kicked some fine points and led at halftime by 0-11 to 1-1. Glenbeigh/Glencar rallied in the third quarter but the boys from the Laune pulled away with goals from Sean O Riordan and Colin O Dwyer to win comfortably.
Laune Rangers: Sean Joy, Timmy Brosnan, Simon Brosnan, Laurence O Connor, Michael Quirke, Rodi Healy (0-1), Tom Collins, Liam Clifford (0-3), Sean O Riordan (1-3, 1 free), JJ Foley (0-1), Shane Crowley, Mikey O Sullivan, Colin O Dwyer (1-2), Gary Flynn (0-8, 3 frees), James Flynn. Subs: David Pigott for J. Flynn, Brian Hayes for L. O Connor, Brendan Ahern (0-1, 1 free) for JJ Foley, John Sheehan (inj.).
Rd. 4 on Wed. 16th April at JP O Sullivan Park: Laune Rangers 0-6; Beaufort 1-16.
Laune Rangers: Stephen O Donoghue, Simon Brosnan, John Sheehan, Timmy Brosnan, Laurence O Connor, Rodi Healy, Tom Collins, Sean O Riordan (0-2, 1 free), Liam Clifford, Luke Dunlea (0-3), Shane Crowley, JJ Foley, Colin O Dwyer (0-1), Gary Flynn, Michael Quirke. Subs: Mikey O Sullivan for JJ Foley, David Pigott for J. Sheehan, Sean T. O Connor for C. O Dwyer, Fergus O Riordan for S. Crowley, Brian Ahern, Brian Hayes (inj.), James Flynn (inj.).
Rd. 5 on Wed. 23rd April at JP O Sullivan Park: Laune Rangers 3-9; Keel 3-10.
Laune Rangers bowed out of the Mid-Kerry Championship with that defeat. Keel was rocked in the second minute by a Gary Flynn goal but they soon found their rhythm and raced into a 3-6 to 1-1 interval lead. Rangers had a tremendous second-half comeback, which saw the 11-point halftime deficit wiped out. Goals from Shane Crowley and Gary Flynn’s second saw Rangers storm into the game on the resumption. Pointed frees by Sean O Riordan had the sides level going into injury time. However, a great solo effort by Gary Sayers for the visitors saw them progress to the semi-finals. Pascal O Brien was sent off after 34 minutes.
Laune Rangers: Stephen O Donoghue, Laurence O Connor, John Flynn (0-1), Pascal O Brien, Tom Collins, Rodi Healy, John Sheehan, Liam Clifford (0-1), Sean O Riordan (0-4), J. J. Foley, Shane Crowley (1-0), Mikey O Sullivan, Colin O Dwyer, Seán Tomás O Connor, Gary Flynn (2-3). Subs: Simon Brosnan for L. O Connor, Sean Joy for S. O Donoghue, Timmy Brosnan for JJ Foley, Brian Ahern, Fergus O Riordan, David Pigott, Brian Hayes (inj.).
‘B’ Championship
Semi-final on Wed. 24th Sept. at JP O Sullivan Park: Laune Rangers 2-12; Cromane/Listry 2-8.
Laune Rangers trailed by 0-3 to 2-4 at halftime.
Laune Rangers: Sean Joy, Laurence O Connor, John Sheehan, Simon Brosnan, Pascal O Brien, Rodi Healy, Timmy Brosnan, Luke Dunlea (0-2), Sean O Riordan (1-5, 1 goal from a sideline, 3 frees), JJ Foley, Liam Clifford (0-1), Michael Quirke, Gary Flynn (0-2), Sean T. O Connor, Colin O Dwyer. Subs: Tom Collins for L. O Connor (inj.), John Flynn (0-1) for T. Brosnan (inj.), Kevin Flynn (1-1) for C. O Dwyer, Shane Crowley for JJ Foley, Fergus O Riordan, David Pigott.
Final on Sun. 5th Oct. at Milltown: Laune Rangers 1-9; Milltown/Castlemaine 1-6.
The weather spoiled that game with the ground and the ball very slippery. Rangers played with the aid of the wind in the first half and led at halftime by 1-6 to 0-1. On the resumption, both teams exchanged points before Milltown/Castlemaine scored a goal that injected new life into the contest. However, Rangers finished the stronger to take the title.
Laune Rangers: Sean Joy, Simon Brosnan, John Sheehan, Tom Collins, Pascal O Brien, Rodi Healy, JJ Foley, Luke Dunlea (0-2), Sean O Riordan (1-2, 2 frees), John Flynn, Liam Clifford, Michael Quirke (0-1), Kevin Flynn, Sean T. O Connor (0-1), Gary Flynn (0-3). Subs: Shane Crowley, Colin O Dwyer, Fergus O Riordan, David Pigott, Mikey O Sullivan, Laurence O Connor (inj.), Timmy Brosnan (inj.).
Tralee District U-16 Football Div. 1
Rd. 1 on Thurs. 25th April at Ardfert: Ardfert 7-7; Laune Rangers 4-5.
Laune Rangers: Sean Joy, Laurence O Connor, John Sheehan (1-0), David Pigott, JJ Foley, Tom Collins, Mikey O Sullivan (0-1), Liam Clifford, Rodi Healy (1-0), Kevin Flynn, Shane Crowley, Fergus O Riordan, Gary Flynn (1-3, 1 pen, 2 frees), Sean T. O Connor, Colin O Dwyer (1-1). Subs: Stephen O Donoghue for S. Joy, Brian Prendiville for F. O Riordan, Fergus O Riordan for G. Flynn (inj.), Brian Ahern, Brian Prendiville..
Rd. 2 on Thurs. 2nd May at Connolly Park: Austin Stacks 2-17; Laune Rangers 0-3.
Laune Rangers: Sean Joy, Laurence O Connor, John Sheehan, Timmy Brosnan, Tom Collins, Rodi Healy, Michael Quirke, Liam Clifford, Sean O Riordan (0-1, free), Shane Crowley, John Flynn (0-1), JJ Foley, Gary Flynn, Sean T. O Connor, Colin O Dwyer. Subs: Mikey O Sullivan for G. Flynn (inj.), Kevin Flynn (0-1, free) for JJ Foley, David Pigott for S. O Riordan (inj.), Fergus O Riordan for C. O Dwyer.
Rd. 3 on Sun. 4th May at JP O Sullivan Park: Laune Rangers 3-12; John Mitchels 7-7.
Laune Rangers: Sean Joy, Laurence O Connor, Brian Hayes, David Pigott, Tom Collins (0-1), Rodi Healy (1-0), Mikey O Sullivan, Sean O Riordan (0-6, 5 frees), Liam Clifford (0-4), Brian Ahern, Michael Quirke, JJ Foley, Colin O Dwyer, Sean T. O Connor (2-1), Brian Prendiville. Subs: Shane Crowley for B. Prendiville.
Co. U-15 Football Championship
That competition was run on a knockout basis. Trainers – Colm Conway and Enda Clifford.
Fri. 11th July at Connolly Park: Austin Stacks defeated Laune Rangers.
Co. U-14 Inter-District Board Football Championship
Rd. 1 on Mon. 26th May at Milltown: Mid-Kerry 6-16; Shannon Rangers 4-16.
Quarter-final on Mon. 9th June at Mountcoal: Feale Rangers 4-10; Mid-Kerry 3-15.
Semi-final in June: Castleisland District Mid-Kerry.
Co. U-14 Football Championship Div. 1
Division 1 consisted of Legion, Dr. Crokes, Beaufort, Ardfert, Rathmore, Laune Rangers, Austin Stacks and Kerins O Rahillys. Laune Rangers were sponsored by Flynn’s Bus Hire. Trainers – Enda Clifford and Michael Corkery.
Rd. 1 on Sat. 29th March at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 5-8; Kerins O Rahillys 4-13.
Laune Rangers put in a brilliant display only to fade near the end. They led at halftime by 2-4 to 0-7 with goals from Stephen Healy and Shane McSweeney. They again started brightly in the second half with further goals from Shane McSweeney and Kyle Corkery. Kerins O Rahillys battled back and scored goals at crucial stages to win an excellent and sporting game. Best for the Rangers were Kevin Flynn, Jeremy O Callaghan, Shane McSweeney and Daniel Horgan in the forwards, while team captain, Tadhg Curran, was excellent in the fullback slot.
Rd. 2 on Mon. 31st March at Beaufort: Beaufort Laune Rangers.
Rd. 4 on Mon. 7th April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers Legion.
Rd. 5 on Mon. 21st April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 2-9; Dr. Crokes 1-8.
Laune Rangers led at the break by 1-6 to 0-5. Best for the Rangers were Tadhg Curran, Eamonn Looney, Kevin Flynn, Kyle Corkery and Colm O Shea.
Rd. 6 on Mon. 28th April at Connolly Park: Austin Stacks Laune Rangers.
Rd. 7 on Mon. 5th May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers Ardfert.
Rd. 3 on Sat. 5th April at Rathmore: Rathmore 1-9; Laune Rangers 5-16.
Semi-final on Mon. 19th May at Cromane: Beaufort defeated Laune Rangers by two points.
Co. U-14 Football Championship (Div. 8)
That was a 9-a-side competition, consisting of the following teams: Abbeydorney, Brosna, Dr. Crokes ‘B’, Laune Rangers ‘B’, Emmett’s ‘B’.
Rd. 1 on Sat. 29th March at Killarney: Dr. Crokes ‘B’ Laune Rangers ‘B’.
Rd. 2 on Mon. 7th April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ Brosna.
Rd. 3 on Mon. 14th April at Listowel: Emmett’s ‘B’ Laune Rangers ‘B’.
Mon. 21st April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ Abbeydorney.
Co. U-14 Football Féile Peil na nOg
Laune Rangers were in the Killarney Section ‘A’ with Dr. Crokes and Spa.
Sat. 12th April at Direen: Laune Rangers defeated Spa.
at Direen: Laune Rangers drew with Dr. Crokes.
However, as Crokes had the greater scoring average (10-18 to 5-17), they progressed and won out the competition and represented Kerry in Galway.
Mid-Kerry U-14 Football Championship
Rd. 2 on Wed. 21st May at Milltown: Milltown/Castlemaine lost to Laune Rangers.
Rd. 3 on Wed. 28th May at Glenbeigh: Laune Rangers 5-14; Glenbeigh/Glencar 1-4.
Rd. 4 on Wed. 4th June at Killorglin: Laune Rangers defeated Cromane/Listry.
Rd. 1 on Mon. 9th June at Killorglin: Laune Rangers defeated Beaufort.
Rd. 5 on Wed. 11th June at Killorglin: Laune Rangers defeated Keel.
Final on Wed. 23rd July at Milltown: Laune Rangers 3-18; Beaufort 4-8.
After an absence of two years, the Mid-Kerry U-14 Championship title returned to the banks of the Laune. It was an intriguing, hard-fought battle against near-neighbours Beaufort, in blustery conditions in Milltown. Rangers started very slowly and were in arrears by 2-6 to 0-3 after 20 minutes of action. In the final ten minutes of the half, Rangers began to take a stranglehold at midfield and a goal by team-captain Kevin Flynn, who ended up with a personal tally of 3-12, brought Rangers right back into the game. They trailed by just five points at halftime (1-6 to 2-8), having played against a strong wind.
On the resumption, Rangers began to show their full potential and delivered a magnificent team effort. Christopher Riordan and Eamonn Looney totally dominated midfield and the defence was superbly marshalled by Tadhg Curran and David O Sullivan. Rangers began to score at will and kicked 1-7 without reply. Even with the loss of the very influential Daniel Horgan (injured), Rangers kept their momentum up for the entire second half and came out with a convincing win by seven points after what many people said was a memorable game of football. It was a fantastic team performance by Laune Rangers with all six forwards getting on the score-sheet and the defence playing out of their skins.
Laune Rangers: Timmy Lynch, Liam Clifford, Tadhg Curran (capt.), David Coffey, Peter Crowley, David O Sullivan, Jeremy O Callaghan, Christopher Riordan, Eamonn Looney, Kyle Corkery (0-1), Kevin Flynn (3-12) capt., Daniel Horgan (0-1), Shane McSweeney (0-1), Padraig Murphy (0-1), Colm O Shea (0-2). Sub: Stephen Healy for D. Horgan (inj.).
Tralee District Board U-14 Football Championship
Semi-final on Sun. 12th Oct. at Ballymac: Laune Rangers defeated Ardfert.
Final on Laune Rangers lost to Kerins O Rahillys.
U-13 Football
Mentors – John O Dwyer and Enda Clifford.
Laune Rangers were invited to partake in the Austin Stacks’ U-13 Football Invitational Tournament over the weekend of 7th/8th June and defeated Na Piarsaigh (Cork), Salthill (Galway) and An Ghaeltacht before succumbing to the hosts in the final.
Laune Rangers Panel: Padraig Murphy, David Coffey, Daniel Clifford, Jeremy O Callaghan, Fionán Crowley, Colm O Shea, Barry Sheehan, Shane O Connor, Tommy O Callaghan, Mathew O Riordan, Patrick Joy, Audie Dunlea, Peter Crowley, Charles Johnston,
Co. U-12 Football Championship
Coaches – John O Dwyer and Diarmuid O Sullivan. Group ‘A’ consisted of Laune Rangers, Beaufort, Dr. Crokes, Austin Stacks and Kerins O Rahillys.
Phase 1
Rd. 1 at Killorglin: Laune Rangers defeated Dr. Crokes
After a slow start, Rangers began to get on top and, at the end, were convincing winners.
Laune Rangers: Darragh Woods, E. O Brien, Tommy O Callaghan, John Sheehan, Cian Clifford, John Flynn, Ryan Lucey, Patrick Joy, David O Sullivan, Audie Dunlea, Anne Healy, Ciarán Doona, M. Riordan, Shane Flynn, Timmy Healy. Subs: Liam Foley, Charles Johnston, A. Clifford, Liam Concannon, A. O Connor.
Rd. 2 on Mon. 4th May at Connolly Park: Austin Stacks Laune Rangers.
Phase 2
Group ‘A’ consisted of Laune Rangers, Austin Stacks, Kerins O Rahillys, Rathmore, and Dingle.
Rd. 1 – Laune Rangers had a bye.
Rd. 2 on Sun. 22nd June at Killorglin: Laune Rangers defeated Kerins O Rahillys.
Rd. 3 on Fri. 27th June at Dingle: Dingle lost to Laune Rangers.
Rd. 5 on Sat. 12th July at Killorglin: Laune Rangers lost to Austin Stacks.
Laune Rangers finished as runners-up in the competition.
Mid-Kerry U-12 Football Championship
Rd. 1 on Sun. 6th July at Beaufort: Beaufort lost to Laune Rangers.
Rd. 2 on Wed. 16th July at Killorglin: Laune Rangers defeated Milltown/Castlemaine.
Rd. 3 on Sun. 20th July at Killorglin: Laune Rangers defeated Glenbeigh/Glencar.
Rd. 4 on Sun. 27th July at Keel: Keel scr; Laune Rangers w/o.
Rd. 5 on Wed. 30th July at Cromane: Cromane/Listry Laune Rangers.
Final on Wed. 13th Aug. at Milltown: Laune Rangers 4-13; Glenbeigh/Glencar 1-4.
Having played with the aid of a slight wind, Laune Rangers led by 3-7 to 1-1 at halftime.
Laune Rangers: Tony Lynch, Darren Curtayne, Tommy O Callaghan, Morgan O Sullivan, Cian Clifford, John Flynn, Ryan Lucey, Anne Healy, David O Sullivan, Audie Dunlea, Ciarán Doona, Pa Joy, Aisling Clifford, Shane Flynn, Timmy Healy.
Tralee District Board U-12 Football Championship
Final in Nov: Austin Stacks 3-7; Laune Rangers 0-6.
U-10 Football
Coaches – Iraneus Looney, Donal Pigott and Brian O Shea.
Mid-Kerry Blitz on Sat. 20th Sept. at Milltown – Laune Rangers entered two teams, one of 11-a-side and one of 9-a-side.
9-a-side (for club ‘A’ teams): defeated Milltown/Castlemaine, Glenbeigh/Glencar and Beaufort but lost to Cromane/Listry.
Michael Sheehan, Michael Kelly, Conor McGillycuddy, Sean O Sullivan, Liam McCarthy, Liam Concannon, Jason O Connor, Keith Sheehan, Michael O Sullivan, Eoin O Sullivan, Liam O Sullivan, Dylan Reidy.
11-a-side (for club ‘B’ teams): defeated Glenbeigh/Glencar, drew with Keel and defeated Beaufort.
Timothy Sheehan, Sean Lillis, Sean Fogarty, Liam Quirke, Dylan Costello, Sean Moriarty, Conor Healy, Cian Healy, Gavin O Shea, Jack O Connor, John Lauder, Fergus Oman, Evan McMahon, Mikey McKenna, Sean O Sullivan, Darren Murray, James Corry, Aaron O Regan, David Carroll, Ciarán Doyle, C. Brosnan, Peter Cotter, Garry O Shea, Darren Prendergast, Conor Begley, Darren Galvin.
Parish League
Finals on Sun. 5th Oct. at JP O Sullivan Park:
‘A’ Final – Conor McGillycuddy defeated Liam Concannon.
‘B’ Final – Jason O Connor defeated Michael O Sullivan.
Player-of-the-year – Conor McGillycuddy. Most improved player – Dylan Reidy.
After the finals, the medals were presented to the players by Mike Frank Russell and John Sheehan.
Sun. 18th May – Laune Rangers played host to Austin Stacks U-8 and U-10 teams.
Schools’/Colleges’ Football
Mid-Kerry Primary Schools Football
3-teacher schools (11-a-side) final on Sun. 8th June at Milltown: Douglas 2-8; Cromane 1-4.
Douglas: Tony Lynch, Padraig Murphy (capt.), Mike Spencer, Mark Riordan, Cormac Johnston, David Sullivan, Martin Lynch, Ann Marie Healy (0-1), Sean Healy, Shane Flynn (0-3), Timothy Healy (1-4). Subs: Danny Healy, Colm O Shea, Nathan Spencer. Trainer – Jerry Houlihan. Teachers – Mary Brosnan and Dolores Johnston.
Co. Cumann na mBunscol Championship
Scoil Mhuire: Jeremy O Callaghan (capt.), Mitchel O Sullivan, Jeremiah Mangan, Jonathan Ashe, Audie Dunlea, Patrick Joy, Matthew O Riordan, Michael Carey, Jesse Sheehan, Dean Reidy, Darragh Woods, Tommy O Callaghan, Liam Concannon, Fionan Crowley, Alan O Connor, Chris O Connor (goals), Shane O Connor, Ryan Lucey, Shane Kelliher, DJ Scannell. Coach – Declan Falvey.
Scoil Mhuire – 2003 Football Team
Front: Mitchel O Sullivan, Jeremiah Mangan, Jonathan Ashe, Audie Dunlea, Patrick Joy, Jeremy O Callaghan (capt.), Mathew O Riordan, Michael Carey, Jesse Sheehan, Dean Reidy.
Back: Declan Falvey (trainer), Darragh Woods, Tommy O Callaghan, Liam Concannon, Fionán Crowley, Alan O Connor, Christopher O Connor, Shane O Connor, Ryan Lucey, Shane Kelliher, DJ Scannell.
Kerry Vocational School’s Junior Football Championship (Sciath Uí Dhroma) 2002/2003
Final in Feb: Killorglin CC 1-11; Castleisland CC 1-6.
Munster Colleges Frewen Cup
Quarter-final on Wed. 26th March at Glin: St. Flannan’s 2-12; Intermediate School 1-8.
Intermediate School: J. Foley, John O Keeffe, James O Reilly, John Sheehan, Rodi Healy, Liam O Sullivan (0-1), Edwin Kelliher, Raymond O Connor (0-3), Fintan Coffey, Gary Sayers, Mícheál Griffin (0-1), Liam Clifford, Michael Hallissey (0-1), P. Doyle (0-2), Cian Griffin (1-0). Subs: Peter O Reilly for R. Healy, D. O Donoghue for L. Clifford.
Kerry Colleges Dunloe Shield
Final on Fri. 21st March at Ballymac: St. Patrick’s, Castleisland 6-13; Presentation, Milltown 3-10 (AET).
Presentation, Milltown: Aidan Joy, P. Hartnett, Jerome O Dowd, Kevin Sheahan, M. O Sullivan, James Foley, M. Dennehy, Timmy O Connor, Francis Courtney, D. O Shea, Jeremiah Hayes, Alan Hickey, S. Murphy, JJ Griffin, Donal O Neill. Subs: A. Keane for A. Joy (inj.), Martin Burke for S. Murphy, S. O Sullivan for M. O Sullivan, K. McKenna for J. Hayes (inj.). Gary Flynn was injured and unable to play.
Munster Colleges Senior Football Championship (Corn Uí Mhuirí)
Rd. 1 at the end of Oct. in ASP, Tralee: Intermediate School 2-12; Dingle CBS 0-5.
Intermediate School: Vincent Costello, John O Keeffe, Ciarán Kelliher, Padraig O Sullivan, Liam O Sullivan, James O Reilly (1-1), Micheál Griffin, Fintan Coffey, Raymond O Connor, Aidan O Sullivan, Edwin Kelliher, Michael Hallissey (0-3, 1 free), Darren O Sullivan (0-7, 4 frees), Florence McCarthy, Eoin O Mahony (1-0).
Wed. 26th Nov. at Fitzgerald Stadium: Intermediate School 1-13; Tralee CBS 4-6.
Intermediate School had already qualified for the quarter-finals but Tralee had to win by at least 6 points to eliminate Dingle CBS.
Intermediate School: Brendan Keely, John O Keeffe, Ciaran Kelliher, Peter O Reilly, Mícheál Griffin, James O Reilly, Liam O Sullivan, Raymond O Connor (1-1), Fintan Coffey, Aidan O Sullivan (0-5), Edwin Kelliher, Michael Hallissey (0-2, 1 ‘45’), Darren O Sullivan (0-5, 2 frees), Florence McCarthy, Eoin O Mahony. Subs: Cian Griffin for E. O Mahony, Sean O Riordan for C. Griffin.
Munster Colleges Corn na Carraige
Fri. 2nd May at Glin: SMI Newcastlewest 4-12; Presentation, Milltown 2-11.
Milltown: Aidan Joy, K. Murphy, M. Colgan, Colm Hayes, M. O Sullivan, James Foley, Kevin Sheehan, Timmy O Connor (1-1, 1 pen.), Francis Courtney (1-3), Alan Hickey, Jeremiah Hayes (0-4, 2 frees), Martin Burke (0-1), Gary Flynn (0-2), JJ Griffin, Donal O Neill. Subs: K. McKenna for J. Foley (inj.), S. Murphy for D. O Neill.
Kerry Colleges O Sullivan Cup
Rd. 1 in Sept. in Annascaul: Dingle CBS 1-12; Intermediate School 3-5.
Rd. 2 on Wed. 1st Oct. at Tarbert: Tarbert CS 2-15; Intermediate School 0-5.
Rd. 3 on Wed. 15th Oct. at Killorglin: Intermediate School 0-10; Tralee CBS 0-14.
Intermediate School: Vinnie Costello, John O Keeffe, Ciarán Kelliher, Patrick O Sullivan, Mícheál Griffin, James O Reilly, Liam O Sullivan, Raymond O Connor, Fintan Coffey, Darren O Sullivan, Edwin Kelliher, Michael Hallissey, Eoin O Mahony, Florence McCarthy, Cian Griffin.
Kerry Colleges Dunloe Cup
Rd. 1 on Fri. 17th Oct. at Keel: Dingle CBS 1-11; Intermediate School 1-6.
Rd. 2 on Fri. 24th Oct: St. Brendan’s Killarney 3-10; Intermediate School 2-8.
Kerry Colleges Moynihan Cup
Rd. 2 on Wed. 1st Oct. in Milltown: Milltown Presentation 2-15; Kenmare 0-6.
Rd. 3 on Wed. 8th Oct: Milltown Presentation w/o; Ballybunion scr.
Semi-final on Wed. 26th Nov. at Farranfore: Presentation, Milltown 2-8; St. Patrick’s, Castleisland 1-7.
Aidan Joy (Laune Rangers) played in goals and Gary Flynn (Laune Rangers) played at left full-forward.
Final on Thurs. 4th Dec. at Ballymac: Mercy Mounthawk 2-9; Presentation, Milltown 1-9.
Gary Flynn scored 1-0 from left full-forward.
Kerry Colleges Dunloe Shield (U-16)
Rd. 1 on Tues. 7th Oct. in Connolly Park: Mounthawk 2-3; Milltown Presentation 1-4.
Rd. 2 on Tues. 21st Oct. at Milltown: Milltown Presentation St. Pat’s, Castleisland.
Semi-final on Fri. 28th Nov. in Killarney: Presentation, Milltown 2-11; Kenmare CC 1-7.
Gary Flynn scored 0-2 from right half-forward.
Final on Fri. 12th Dec. at Farranfore: Mercy Mounthawk 1-8; Presentation, Milltown 1-6.
Gary Flynn scored 0-4 from left full-forward.
Kerry Vocational Schools Senior Football Championship
Rd. 1 in Sept: Killorglin CC 4-6; Gael Choláiste 1-12.
Rd. 2 on Tues. 7th Oct. at Cloon: Killorglin CC 4-7; Castleisland CC 0-8.
Wed. 12th Nov. at Sports Complex, Tralee: Tralee CC 2-4; Killorglin CC 4-10.
Final on Wed. 10th Dec. at Fitzgerald Stadium: Gaelcholáiste Chiarraí 1-15; Killorglin CC 0-5.
Killorglin CC: P. Griffin, V. Hoare, Stephen O Sullivan, K. Cahillane, K. Foley, J. O Shea, Colm Heffernan, J. Hoare (0-1), A. O Connor, N. O Shea, M. O Brien, C. Courtney (0-1), Kevin Flynn, Tomás O Connor (0-1), J. Browne. Sub: Niall Dennehy (0-2) for A. O Connor.
Kerry Vocational Schools’ Junior Football Championship
Rd. 1 on Tues. 14th Oct. at Cloon: Killorglin CC 4-15; Tralee CC 4-7.
Rd. 2 on Thurs. 23rd Oct. at Killarney School Pitch: Killarney CC 2-12; Killorglin CC 3-10.
Killorglin CC: Mark O Sullivan, S. Riordan, E. Looney, K. Sweeney, P. Murphy, V. Hoare (0-1), D. Moriarty, Sean O Connor, Kevin Flynn (1-3, 3 frees), Jerome Flynn (0-3), James Flynn (0-2, 1 free), R. Minjon, John Flynn (1-1), J. O Connor (1-0), R. Riordan. Subs: A. O Connor, R. O Connor (both played).
Rd. 4 on Wed. 26th Nov. at Castleisland: Castleisland CC 2-6; Killorglin CC 1-4.
Rd. 5 on Thurs. 4th Dec. at Tralee: Gaelcholáiste 1-14; Killorglin CC 0-3.
Kerry Vocational Schools’ Ladies’ SFC
Thurs. 23rd Oct. at Killarney School Pitch: Killarney CC Killorglin CC.
Munster Colleges Ladies’ ‘B’ Football Championship
Final on Wed. 19th Feb. at Coachford: Intermediate School 3-12; St. Mary’s Midleton 2-8.
Intermediate School: Gretta O Connor (Keel), Sinead Pigott (Laune Rangers), Margaret Foley (Keel), Carrie Spillane (Glenflesk), Triona O Donoghue (Listry), Niamh McKenna (Milltown/Castlemaine), Mary Cronin (Laune Rangers), Fleur Wyn-Morgan (Keel), Louise McCarthy (Dr. Crokes) 1-2, Sheila Cronin (Laune Rangers), Ciara Treacy (Dr. Crokes) 2-4, 1 free, Jenny Murphy (Keel) capt. 0-1, Laura Buckley (Dr. Crokes) 0-2, Sarah Jane Joy (Laune Rangers), Eimear Knightley (do.) 0-2. Subs: Emer Quirke (Milltown/Castlemaine) for M. Foley, Ciara O Connor (Laune Rangers) for J. Murphy, Niamh Pigott (Laune Rangers) 0-1 for C. Treacy, Jade O Connor (Laune Rangers) for M. Cronin.
All-Ireland Final on Sat. 5th April at Mungret: Holy Rosary, Mountbellew 4-12; Intermediate School 3-11.
Intermediate School: Gretta O Connor, Carrie Spillane, Ciara O Connor, Sinead Pigott, Triona O Donoghue, Niamh McKiernan, Mary Cronin, Louise McCarthy (0-1), Fleur Wynne Morgan (1-2), Sheila Cronin (0-2), Ciara Treacy (0-2), Jenny Murphy (0-1), Eimear Knightley (1-1), Sarah Jane Joy, Laura Buckley (1-2). Subs: Margaret Foley for C. O Connor (inj.), Tracy Sheehan for S. Pigott.
Munster U-16 Football Championship
Rd. 1 on Sat. 12th July at Rathkeale: Kerry South 1-19; Tipperary 0-2. Sean O Riordan, Laune Rangers, scored 0-1 in that game.
Semi-final on Sat. 12th July at Rathkeale: Kerry South 5-17; Cork City. Sean O Riordan scored 1-2 in that game.
Final on Sat. 19th July at: Kerry South 1-14; Kerry North 0-12.
Kerry South: Liam Sheehan (St. Mary’s), Sean O Connor (Gneeveguilla), Killian Young (Renard), Liam Austin (Legion), James Wrenn (Dr. Crokes), James O Reilly (Beaufort), Shane Lynch (Spa), Alan O Sullivan (Tuosist) 0-1, Mike O Donoghue (Spa) 0-1, Kieran O Leary (Dr. Crokes (0-2), Padraig Doyle (Beaufort) 1-2, Sean O Riordan (Laune Rangers) 0-2, Paddy Curran (Waterville), Paul O Connor (Kenmare) 0-4, Brian Looney (Dr. Crokes) 0-2. Subs: Denis O Shea (Milltown/Castlemaine), Wayne Coffey (do.), Michael Hallissey (Beaufort), Padraig Hartnett (do), Owen O Neill (Renard), Conor Hickey (Gneeveguilla), Gavin O Shea (Kenmare), Ger O Sullivan (Firies), Liam O Sullivan (Renard).
Selectors – Tim Coffey (Beaufort), Denny Doolin (Spa), John Daly (Kenmare), Peadar O Shea (St. Michael’s/Foilmore).
Munster Minor Football Championship
That competition was played on a round-robin basis again in 2003. Selection committee – Pat O Shea (Dr. Crokes), Mike Houlihan (Ballyduff), John Galvin (Waterville), Tomás Hanifin (Lispole), Tim Coffey (Beaufort).
Rd. 1 on Sat. 1st March at Kilmallock: Kerry 2-13; Tipperary 1-7.
Jerry Coffey was most impressive at centre halfback.
Kerry: D. Carey (Austin Stacks), Luke Quinn (Dr. Crokes), Colin O Sullivan (Skellig Rangers), Shane O Sullivan (Rathmore), Shane O Sullivan (Lispole), Jerry Coffey (Laune Rangers), Michael Curran (Waterville), Damien Breen (Beaufort), Brian Sheehan (St. Mary’s) 1-2, Barry O Grady (Ballyduff) 0-2, Garry Dowling (Beale), Michael Murphy (Gneeveguilla), Jersey Houlihan (Ballyduff) 0-1, Dan Doona (Beaufort) 1-5, David Geaney (Dingle) 0-3. Subs: Pa Moloney (Dr. Crokes) for B. Grady, K. O Sullivan (Dromid) for D. Geaney, Mikey Bowler (Ballyduff) for M. Murphy, Joe McGillycuddy (Glenbeigh) for S. O Sullivan, Ciaran Kelliher (Milltown/Castlemaine) for C. O Sullivan.
Rd. 2 on Sat. 8th March at Killarney: Kerry 3-10; Limerick 2-5.
Kerry: D. Carey, Michael Curran, Colin O Sullivan, James O Sullivan, Martin O Mahony, Jerry Coffey, Joe McGillycuddy, Brian Sheehan, Damien Breen (0-2), Mike Murphy (0-1), Gary Dowling (0-1), Mikey Bowler, K. ‘Jackie’ O Sullivan (1-0), Dan Doona (1-4, 1 free), David Geaney (1-1). Subs: Shane O Sullivan for M. O Mahony, P. O Sullivan for J. O Sullivan, Shane Murphy for M. Murphy, Pa Moloney (0-1) for G. Dowling, J. Buckley for D. Doona.
Rd. 3 on 15th March at Cappoquin: Waterford 1-9; Kerry 0-21.
Kerry: Brendan Kealy, Ciarán Kelliher, Luke Quinn, James O Sullivan (Rathmore), Shane O Sullivan (Lispole) (0-1), Jerry Coffey, Joe McGillycuddy, Damien Breen, Gary Dowling, Pa Moloney, Mikey Bowler (0-1), Barry O Grady (0-4), Jersey Houlihan (0-6, 2 frees), Dan Doona (0-6, 5 frees), David Geaney (0-2). Subs: Shane Murphy for B. Grady, John Buckley (0-1) for D. Geaney, Aaron Cahillane for J. McGillycuddy, Mike Murphy for P. Moloney, Padraig Reidy for J. O Sullivan.
Rd. 4 on Sat. 29th March at Páirc Uí Rinn: Cork 2-12; Kerry 1-11.
As Kerry had already qualified for the knock-out stages of the competition, it was an experimental team that took the field against Cork.
Kerry: Brendan Kealy, Giles O Grady, Luke Quinn, Padraig Reidy, Aaron Cahillane (Keel), Martin O Mahony (Ballydonoghue), Shane O Sullivan, Damien Breen (0-2), Pa Moloney, Shane Murphy (Milltown/Castlemaine), Gary Dowling (1-2), Brendan Poff (St. Pat’s), Jersey Houlihan (0-3, 2 frees), Dan Doona (0-4, 2 frees) capt., John Buckley (Currow). Subs: Ray Galvin (Finuge) for B. Poff, Jerry Coffey for P. Moloney, Joe McGillycuddy for P. Reidy, Peadar Stack (Churchill) for G. O Grady.
Rd. 5 on Wed. 16th April at Tralee: Kerry 0-9; Clare 1-4.
Although Jerry Coffey was a substitute, he did not play.
Quarter-final on Sat. 2nd Aug. at Ennis: Kerry 2-10; Mayo 1-8.
Kerry: Brendan Kealy, Michael Curran, Luke Quinn, Padraig Reidy, Ciarán Kelliher, Shane O Sullivan, Joe McGillycuddy, Damien Breen (0-1), Sean O Shea, Mike Murphy, Barry O Grady (0-2), Mikey Bowler, Dan Doona (0-2), Brian Sheehan (2-5, 1 pen, 4 frees), David Geaney. Subs: Brian Moran for S. O Shea, Jerry Coffey for M. Curran, J. Buckley for D. Geaney, Darren O Sullivan for M. Bowler, Shane Murphy for M. Murphy.
All-Ireland Semi-final on Sun. 24th Aug. at Croke Park: Laois 2-15; Kerry 2-10.
Kerry: Brendan Kealy (Kilcummin), Michael Curran (Waterville), Luke Quinn (Dr. Crokes), Padraig Reidy (Scartaglin), Ciaran Kelliher (Milltown/Castlemaine), Shane O Sullivan (Lispole), Joe McGillycuddy (Glenbeigh/Glencar), Damien Breen (Beaufort), Brian Moran (Kerins O Rahillys), Mike Murphy (Gneeveguilla), Barry O Grady (Ballyduff) 1-1, Mikey Bowler (do.) 1-1, Dan Doona (Beaufort) capt. 0-4, 3 frees, Brian Sheehan (St. Mary’s) 0-3, 2 frees, one ‘45’, David Geaney (Dingle) 0-1. Subs: Jerry Coffey (Laune Rangers) for for C. Kelliher, Sean O Shea (St. Michael’s/Foilmore) for M. Bowler, Darren O Sullivan (Glenbeigh/Glencar) for M. Murphy, Johnny Buckley (Currow) for D. Geaney.
Munster U-21 Football Championship
Trainer – Jack O Connor. Selectors – Ambrose O Donovan, Pat Brosnan, Ger O Keeffe, Mossie Spillane.
Rd. 1 on Wed. 18th June at Newcastlewest: Limerick 0-7; Kerry 1-7.
Kerry: Shane Clifford (Laune Rangers), Noel Lynch (do.), Eoin Lawlor (Gneeveguilla), Fergal Griffin (Glenbeigh/Glencar), Padraig Sheehan (Dromid), Colm O Connor (do.), Eanna Kavanagh (Dr. Crokes), Seamus Scanlon (Currow), Paddy Kelly (Ballylongford), Ross O Donovan (Spa) 0-1, Declan O Sullivan (Dromid), Michael Collins (Austin Stacks), Colm Cooper (Dr. Crokes) 1-0, Declan Quill (Kerins O Rahillys) 0-5, 3 frees, D.J. Fleming (Kilcummin) 0-1, free. Sub: Donncha Walsh (Cromane) for D.J. Fleming, Pat O Sullivan (Valentia), Brendan O Mahony (John Mitchels), Seamus O Sullivan (Waterville), Brian Dennehy (Austin Stacks), Ronan McAuliffe (Gneeveguilla), Colin O Connor (Laune Rangers), Maurice O Connell (Desmonds), Daithí Mac Gearailt (An Ghaeltacht)..
Semi-final on Fri. 15th Aug. at Killarney: Kerry 4-17; Tipperary 2-5.
Kerry: Shane Clifford, Noel Lynch, Eoin Lawlor, Fergal Griffin, Padraig Sheehan (1-0), Colm O Connor, Eanna Kavanagh (1-0), Seamus Scanlon, Paddy Kelly, Ross Donovan (1-4, one ‘45’), Declan O Sullivan, Michael Collins (0-1), Declan Quill (1-7, 3 frees), Colm Cooper (0-2), D.J. Fleming (0-3). Subs: Kieran Donaghy for S. Scanlon, Donncha Walsh for C. Cooper, Ronan McAuliffe for D. O Sullivan, Brendan O Mahony for N. Lynch, Seamus O Sullivan for M. Collins.
Final on Sat. 6th Sept. at Walsh Park: Waterford 2-8; Kerry 1-9.
Kerry: Brian Sheehan (St. Mary’s), Noel Lynch, Eoin Lawlor, Fergal Griffin, Padraig Sheehan, Colm O Connor, Eanna Kavanagh, Seamus Scanlon, Paddy Kelly, Ross Donovan, Declan O Sullivan, Mikey Collins (1-0), Declan Quill (0-3), Colm Cooper (0-3), D.J. Fleming (0-3, frees). Subs: Brendan O Mahony (John Mitchels) for E. Kavanagh, Kieran Donaghy for D. Quill.
NFL Div. 1 (2002/2003)
Trainer – Paidí Ó Sé. Selectors – John O Keeffe, John O Dwyer, Eddie O Sullivan and Eamonn Walsh.
Rd. 1 on Sat. 1st Feb. at Páirc Uí Rinn: Cork 4-8; Kerry 1-9.
Kerry: Declan O Keeffe, Tom O Sullivan, Barry O Shea, Mike McCarthy, Tomás Ó Sé (0-2), Seamus Moynihan, John Sheehan, Dara Ó Sé, Donal Daly, Sean O Sullivan (0-1), Eoin Brosnan, Aodan Mac Gearailt, Declan Quill (0-5, 3 frees), Dara Ó Cinneide (0-1, free), Colm Cooper. Subs: Seamus Scanlon, Paul Galvin for D. Daly, Declan O Sullivan (1-0) for C. Cooper, Marc Ó Sé for J. Sheehan (inj.).
Rd. 2 on Sun. 9th Feb. at Austin Stack Park: Kerry 2-11; Roscommon 0-4.
John Sheehan was the third cog in what was a very impressive halfback line. With another consistent display, he was then one of the top wing-backs in the country. He did his job quietly but effectively.
Kerry: Diarmuid Murphy, Tom O Sullivan, Barry O Shea, Mike McCarthy, Tomás Ó Sé, Seamus Moynihan, John Sheehan, Dara Ó Sé, Donal Daly, Sean O Sullivan (0-2), Eoin Brosnan (0-1), Billy Sheehan, Declan Quill (2-4, 1 free), Dara Ó Cinnéide (0-3, frees), Colm Cooper. Subs: Declan O Sullivan (0-1) for D. Ó Cinnéide, Marc Ó Sé for T. Ó Sé, Mossy Lyons for B. O Shea, Seamus Scanlon for D. Ó Sé, Riobard Mac Gearailt for S. O Sullivan.
Rd. 3 on Sun. 16th Feb. at Pearse Stadium: Galway 1-13; Kerry 0-9.
Kerry: Diarmuid Murphy, Tom O Sullivan, Mike McCarthy, Barry o Shea, Tomás Ó Sé, Seamus Moynihan, John Sheehan, Dara Ó Sé, Donal Daly, Sean O Sullivan, Eoin Brosnan, Billy Sheehan, Declan Quill (0-6, 1 free), Dara Ó Cinneide (0-1, free), Colm Cooper (0-1). Subs: Declan O Sullivan for D. Ó Cinnéide, Paul Galvin (0-1) for B. Sheehan, Eamonn Fitzmaurice for E. Brosnan, Marc Ó Se for B. O Shea, Paul Kennedy for S. O Sullivan.
Rd. 4 on Sun. 2nd March at Killarney: Kerry 2-11; Dublin 0-14.
Kerry: Diarmuid Murphy, Marc Ó Sé, Mike McCarthy, Tom O Sullivan, Tomás Ó Sé, Seamus Moynihan (0-1), John Sheehan, Dara Ó Sé (0-1), Donal Daly, Sean O Sullivan, Eoin Brosnan (1-3), Donncha Walsh, Declan Quill (capt.) 0-3, Dara Ó Cinnéide, Declan O Sullivan (1-2). Subs: Seamus Scanlon for D. Daly, Liam Hassett (0-1) for S. O Sullivan, John Crowley for D. Ó Cinnéide, Paul Kennedy for D. Walsh.
Rd. 5 on Sun. 9th March at Ballyshannon: Donegal 0-8; Kerry 1-12.
Kerry: Diarmuid Murphy, Tomás Ó Sé, Mike McCarthy, Mossy Lyons, Eamonn Fitzmaurice, Seamus Moynihan, John Sheehan, Darragh Ó Sé, Donal Daly (0-1), Liam Hassett, Eoin Brosnan, Paul Galvin (0-1), Declan Quill (0-7, 3 frees), Declan O Sullivan (1-1), Ronán O Connor. Subs: Sean O Sullivan (0-1) for R. O Connor, Tom O Sullivan for E. Fitzmaurice, Seamus Scanlon for L. Hassett, Billy Sheehan (0-1) for E. Brosnan.
Rd. 6 on Sun. 23rd March at Killarney: Kerry 0-14; Tyrone 1-13.
John Sheehan was perhaps one of Kerry’s better defenders on the afternoon. His covering was excellent, as was his defensive play. Liam Hassett did not fire on all cylinders during the game. He began brightly enough but faded as the game wore on.
Kerry: Declan O Keeffe, Tomás Ó Sé, Tom O Sullivan, Mossy Lyons (0-1), Marc Ó Sé (0-1), Riobard Mac Gearailt, John Sheehan, Darragh Ó Sé, Donal Daly, Liam Hassett, Eoin Brosnan (0-2), Paul Galvin, Declan Quill (0-3, 2 frees), Declan O Sullivan (0-1), Colm Cooper (0-1). Subs: Seamus Scanlon (0-1) for R. Mac Gearailt, Dara Ó Cinnéide (0-3) for L. Hassett, Aodán Mac Gearailt for D. Daly, John Crowley (0-1) for C. Cooper.
Sun. 6th April at Tralee: Kerry 1-13; Armagh 2-8.
John Sheehan was consistency personified. He had been Kerry’s best defender throughout the league campaign and, when he was needed against the All-Ireland Champions, he did not let the house down – solid as a rock.
Kerry: Declan O Keeffe, Tomás Ó Sé, Tom O Sullivan, Mossy Lyons (0-2), Marc Ó Sé (1-0), Eamonn Fitzmaurice, John Sheehan, Darragh Ó Sé, Seamus Scanlon, Aodán Mac Gearailt (0-1), Dara Ó Cinnéide (0-6, 5 frees), Paul Galvin, Declan Quill (0-3), Declan O Sullivan, John Crowley. Subs: Sean O Sullivan for A. Mac Gearailt, Seamus Moynihan (0-1) for J. Crowley, Eoin Brosnan for P. Galvin, Liam Hassett for T. Ó Sé, Billy Sheehan for D. Quill.
Mike Frank Russell had missed all of the League campaign because he was recovering from a groin operation.
Munster Senior Football Championship
Semi-final on Sun. 15th June at Austin Stack Park: Kerry 0-25; Tipperary 1-10.
John Sheehan was part of a very effective halfback line. Liam Hassett, at centre half-forward, was the play-maker and had a hand in many of the first-half scores. Mike Frank Russell was nominated as Sports-star of the Week by the Kerry’s Eye for his performance, as he turned on the style on his introduction and kicked four glorious points.
Kerry: Declan O Keeffe, Tom O Sullivan, Eamonn Fitzmaurice, Mike McCarthy, Tomás Ó Sé, Seamus Moynihan, John Sheehan, Dara Ó Sé (0-1, free), Seamus Scanlon (0-1), Declan Quill (0-3, 2 frees), Liam Hassett (0-1), Sean O Sullivan (0-3), Colm Cooper (0-5), Declan O Sullivan (0-3), John Crowley (0-2). Subs: Eoin Brosnan (0-1) for L. Hassett, Mike Frank Russell (0-4) for D. Quill, Dara Ó Cinnéide (0-1, free) for J. Crowley, James Cahillane for T. Ó Sé, Aodán Mac Gearailt for D. O Sullivan.
Final on Sun. 11th July at Killarney: Kerry 1-11; Limerick 0-9.
Kerry: Declan O Keeffe, Tom O Sullivan, Seamus Moynihan, Mike McCarthy, Tomás Ó Sé, Eamonn Fitzgerald, Marc Ó Sé, Seamus Scanlon, Eoin Brosnan, Liam Hassett (0-2), Dara Ó Cinnéide (1-6), Sean O Sullivan, Colm Cooper (0-1), Declan O Sullivan, Mike Frank Russell. Subs: Aodán Mac Gearailt (0-1) for MF Russell, Johnny Crowley (0-1) for C. Cooper, Paul Galvin for S. O Sullivan.
Quarter-final on Mon. 4th Aug. at Croke Park: Kerry 1-21; Roscommon 3-10.
Kerry: Declan O Keeffe, Mike McCarthy, Seamus Moynihan, Tom O Sullivan, Tomás Ó Sé, Eamonn Fitzmaurice, Marc Ó Sé, Dara Ó Sé, Eoin Brosnan, Sean O Sullivan (0-2), Dara Ó Cinnéide (0-8, 6 frees, one ’45), Liam Hassett (0-2), Mike Frank Russell (0-2), Declan O Sullivan (1-2), Colm Cooper (0-4). Subs: John Sheehan for M. Ó Sé, John Crowley (0-1) for MF Russell, Aodan Mac Gearailt for S. O Sullivan, Seamus Scanlon for E. Brosnan.
Semi-final on Sun. 24th Aug. at Croke Park: Tyrone 0-13; Kerry 0-6.
Kerry: Declan O Keeffe, Tom O Sullivan, Seamus Moynihan, Mike McCarthy, Eamonn Fitzmaurice, Tomás Ó Sé, John Sheehan, Dara Ó Sé, Eoin Brosnan, Sean O Sullivan, Dara Ó Cinnéide (0-1, free), Liam Hassett, Mike Frank Russell, Declan O Sullivan (0-1), Colm Cooper (0-1). Subs: Marc Ó Sé (0-1) for J. Sheehan, John Crowley for S. O Sullivan, Seamus Scanlon for MF Russell, Declan Quill (0-2, frees) for D. Ó Cinnéide, Aodan Mac Gearailt for L. Hassett.
Kerry Inter-Firm Senior Football Championship
At the end of July: AIB defeated Kerry Group/Envirocoat.
Final on Wed. 20th Aug. at Strand Road: AIB 2-10; Kerry Ingredients 2-10.
AIB: Pat Carmody, Colm O Shea, Stephen Stack , J. Courtney, D. Kelliher, Barry O Shea, Pa Laide (0-3, one ‘45’), Austin Constable, Tommy Griffin, Brian Gannon (0-1), Billy O Shea (0-2), Fergus McAuliffe (1-0), S.B. O Doherty (1-0), Mark Fitzgerald (0-3), Brian O Connor (0-1).
Final replay on Wed. 26th Nov. at Austin Stack Park: AIB Group 0-14; Kerry Ingredients 2-7.
AIB Group: Pat Carmody (Emmett’s), Terence Houlihan (Laune Rangers), Kenneth Leen (Austin Stacks), P. O Connor (do.), D. Kelliher (Desmonds), Stephen Stack (Emmett’s), Pa Laide (Austin Stacks), Billy O Shea (Laune Rangers), Tommy Griffin (Legion), Austin Constable (St. Mary’s) 0-3, Declan O Sullivan (Dromid) 0-5, 3 frees, Fergus McAuliffe (Gneeveguilla) 0-2, Brian O Connor (Templenoe) 0-3, Brian Gannon (Laune Rangers) 0-1, S.B. Doherty (Kilcummin).
Ref: Peter Lyons (Laune Rangers).
Kerry Inter-firm Junior Football Championship
Rd. 1on 30th June at Boherbue: Kerry Gardaí 0-9; Fujisawa 2-11.
At Killorglin: Fexco Kerry Local Authorities
Rd. 2 on 7th July at Milltown: Fexco defeated Kerry Gardaí.
At Killorglin: Fujisawa Dairymaster
Rd. 3 on 14th July at Killorglin: Fexco Fujisawa
Final on Mon. 18th Aug. at Strand Road: Kerry Local Authorities Fexco.
Munster Junior Club Hurling Championship
Rd. 1 on Sun. 15th Feb. 2004 at the Ragg, Co. Tipperary: Thurles Fennellys 7-21; Laune Rangers 0-2.
The Killorglin did not deserve to be beaten as badly but they were never seriously in the hunt and, by the end of the first quarter, at which stage they trailed by 3-5 to 0-0, the game was over. Laune Rangers knew that they faced a formidable task coming to the Ragg for the encounter, but their lot was made well nigh impossible because of the absence of some first choice players, including Ronan Doherty, Liam Mangan, Tom Coleman and Shane Stack. To their credit, they battled all the way, but they had no answer to the slick Fennellys outfit who led at halftime by 5-12 to 0-1. Pat Lawlor ruled the roost for the home side and his ability to take the ball at first touch and finish with deadly accuracy was in marked contrast to many of the Laune Rangers’ squad who were competitive and committed but lacked the deftness in their stick-work to cause the Tipperary champions any problems. The exception was centre-halfback, Robbie Kennedy, who turned in a great hour for Rangers but who laboured without the kind of back-up that was needed to mount a serious challenge. Rangers’ only point in the first half came from Declan O Shea in the 24th minute, although just before the break they had a penalty by Brian O Sullivan saved and cleared.
The one-way traffic continued in the second half and Robbie Kennedy, from a free in the 19th minute, scored Rangers’ only other score of the game. The value of the game to either side was questionable. Rangers’ coach, Richard O Connor, said afterwards that it had underlined for them how much they had to do to improve their game, but he felt that it had been a worthwhile experience and that they would be the better for it. Whatever, Rangers lacked in class at that level, they did not lack in heart and enthusiasm. No one personified that more than Robbie Kennedy, but Josh Whelan, Joe Kennedy, Frank Hill, Denis McDonnell and David Lynch all put in a big effort that deserved better than the score-line gave them. It had represented a tremendous achievement by such a non-hurling area to win the Kerry Junior Hurling Championship.
Laune Rangers: Eamonn Clifford, Josh Whelan, Connie Moynihan, Aidan McCarthy, Frank Hill, Robbie Kennedy (0-1, free), Denis McDonnell, Joe Kennedy, Brian O Sullivan, Paul Daly, David Lynch, Declan O Shea (0-1), Brendan O Shea, Noel Purcell, Wayne Doyle. Subs: Jay Scully for A. McCarthy, Stephen Daly for P. Daly, John Lynch for B. O Shea, Peter Courtney for W. Doyle, Sean Jones for D. O Shea.
Co. Junior Hurling Championship
Coach/Trainer – Richard O Connor.
Quarter-final on Wed. 20th Aug. at J.P. O Sullivan Park: Laune Rangers 1-12; Crotta O Neill’s 3-4.
Crotta pulled ahead in the first ten minutes with two goals. Led by Robbie Kennedy, and a great goal by Paul Daly, Laune Rangers came back into the game and by halftime the margin was down to two points. The second half opened with another Crotta goal and a point. Laune Rangers fought back again and great play from Shane Stack, Ronan Doherty and Liam Mangan brought the sides level with five minutes remaining. Crotta then put on a strong attack but the backline remained strong with Frank Hill and Josh Whelan making some crucial clearances. Despite three ‘65’s’ for Crotta in injury time, Laune Rangers held the two-point margin to the finish.
Laune Rangers: Eamonn Clifford, John Whelan, Connie Moynihan, Joe Scully, Denis McDonnell, Robbie Kennedy (0-6), Frank Hill, Liam Mangan, Ronan Doherty, Paul Daly (1-0), David Lynch, Shane Stack (0-4), Declan O Shea (0-1), Stephen Daly, Wayne Doyle (0-1). Subs: J.P. Quirke for W. Doyle, Karl Daly for J. Scully, S. Colgan, S. Enright, Peter Courtney.
Semi-final on Thurs. 4th Sept. at Beaufort: Laune Rangers 4-14; St. Pat’s, East-Kerry 2-8.
Laune Rangers: Enda Clifford, Josh Whelan, Connie Moynihan, Jay Scully, Denis McDonnell, Robbie Kennedy (1-3), Frank Hill, Liam Mangan, Ronan Doherty (0-2), David Lynch (0-2), Shane Stack (1-3), Wayne Doyle, Declan O Shea (0-1), Stephen Daly, Paul Daly (0-1). Subs: Brian O Sullivan for W. Doyle, Peter Courtney for P. Daly, S. Enright for R. Kennedy, Joe Kennedy (2-2) for S. Daly, JP Quirke, Sean Jones.
Final on Sun. 21st Sept. at Lewis Road: Laune Rangers 2-9; Lixnaw ‘B’ 2-8.
Timmy Sheehan reported in the Kerryman as follows: “Having established a significant lead at the outset of the second half, Laune Rangers had subsequently to stage a last-gasp response in added time before they captured the county junior hurling championship title. Lixnaw were left with a mountain to climb when Rangers netted their second goal early in the second half but, with admirable endeavour, they staged a heart-warming comeback, which very nearly afforded them the title at the end of a titanic struggle.
Lixnaw squandered a goal-scoring opportunity within seconds of the throw-in but, with Robbie Kennedy dominant in the pivotal centre-back berth, the Killorglin outfit initially exerted a firm grip on proceedings and were three points in front after ten minutes courtesy of some outstanding scores from Robbie Kennedy (free) and Joe Kennedy with a brace – one of which was a magnificent effort from play. With Eamonn Fitzmaurice prominent in midfield, Dick McElligott industrious on the ‘40’ and Ger Lovett defending with a lot of determination, Lixnaw came more into contention, for a period, but the Laune Rangers’ defence was well equal to the task and, after their impressive full-forward Shane Stack had shot their fourth point, at the end of the opening quarter, Joe Kennedy, with two pointed frees, increased their lead to six points by the 17th minute. A minute later, Shane Stack finished a long delivery to the net of the game’s first goal to put the Killorglin men into a strong 1-6 to 0-0 lead. Now in complete control, with Ronan Doherty extremely workmanlike in midfield, Rangers extended their lead to ten points with five minutes remaining in the half, when Robbie Kennedy’s free, from his own 45m line, bounced over the bar at the other end. Lixnaw’s account was finally opened by a Dick McElligott free four minutes from the break and another point from Eugene Stack doubled their first-half tally. Halftime arrived with Rangers ahead by 1-6 to 0-2.
Within a minute of the restart, Laune Rangers consolidated their situation even further with a second goal when Wayne Doyle was on hand to tap the ball to the net from close range after Joe Kennedy’s free fell short and was directed back across the face of the goal by Paul Daly. Johnny O Connell and Joe Kennedy swapped pointed frees at opposite ends and, with 20 minutes remaining, Laune Rangers, eleven points in front (2-8 to 0-3), were firmly in the driving seat. However, the introduction of a few subs helped to re-launch the Lixnaw challenge and, after Dick McElligott, with two pointed frees, had kept their fading hopes alive, they laid siege to the Laune Rangers’ goal for most of the final quarter. Goalkeeper, Eamonn Clifford, with a string of outstanding saves, initially kept Rangers’ comfortable scoring advantage intact, but, after Karl McCarthy had shot Lixnaw’s sixth point, he followed up with a goal six minutes from the end of normal time (2-8 to 1-6). Eugene Stack and Moss Allen, with further points, narrowed the margin to a single goal with four minutes left and, at the end of a sustained period of pressure, full-forward Karl McCarthy once again found the net to level matters at 2-8 apiece with the thrilling encounter in added time.
Certainly, the momentum was firmly in favour of Lixnaw at this juncture and, with Eamonn Fitzmaurice a dominant figure in midfield, it looked briefly as if they would fashion what would have been a dramatic victory. Rangers, now defending in numbers, would probably have settled for a draw at this stage but, in one final act, they swept up-field and midfielder Ronan Doherty, under pressure, shot over an excellent lead-score for them in the 64th minute. They then had to survive a few more anxious moments before they were assured of the coveted championship crown. In the end, they had to draw on all of their reserves of character to pull through. It could have gone either way but, with the issue delicately poised, Doherty took on the responsibility and became the match-winner for the Blues.”
After the game, the winning captain, Robbie Kennedy, received the cup from Jerome Conway, Vice-Chairman of the Kerry Co. Board.
Laune Rangers: Eamonn Clifford, Josh Whelan, Connie Moynihan, Aidan McCarthy, Denis McDonnell, Robbie Kennedy (0-2, frees) capt., Frank Hill, Ronan Doherty (0-1), Liam Mangan, David Lynch, Joe Kennedy (0-5, 4 frees), Declan O Shea, Paul Daly, Shane Stack (1-1), Wayne Doyle (1-0). Subs: Stephen Daly for D. O Shea, Tom Coleman for D. McDonnell, Jay Scully, Karl Daly, Brian O Sullivan, S. Colgan, PatCourtney, S. Enright, Sean Jones, James Cronin, J. P. Quirke, N. Power.
The team was composed of players from Killorglin, Firies and Milltown.
Ref: Brendan Dunne (Ballyheigue).
Co. Junior Hurling League Div. 3
Div. 3 consisted of St. Brendan’s ‘B’, Abbeydorney ‘B’, Laune Rangers, Crotta ‘B’, St. Pat’s ‘B’, Kilgarvan ‘B’ and Austin Stacks.
Rd. 1 on Wed. 9th July at Connolly Park: Austin Stacks 1-10; Laune Rangers 3-6.
Stephen Daly scored two first-half goals, which contributed immensely to the win, together with the great work-rate of Ronan Doherty and Robbie Kennedy.
Laune Rangers: Eamonn Clifford, Aidan McCarthy, Josh Whelan, Jay Scully, Denis McDonnell, Tom Coleman, Frank Hill, Robbie Kennedy, N. O Leary, David Lynch, Wayne Doyle, Ronan Doherty, Stephen Daly, S. Enright, Paul Daly. Subs: Carl Daly for J. Scully, Brian O Sullivan for W. Doyle, S. Colgan for S. Enright.
Rd. 2 on Wed. 16th July at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 0-8; Abbeydorney ‘B’ 1-8.
Laune Rangers led by one point at halftime. However, the visitors mounted a strong challenge in the second half and scored a goal in the last minute to win the game.
Laune Rangers: Eamonn Clifford, Aidan McCarthy, JP Quirke, Jay Scully, Denis McDonnell, Josh Whelan, Frank Hill, Robbie Kennedy, Ronan Doherty, Paul Daly, Wayne Doyle, Declan O Shea, S. Enright, N. O Leary, S. Colgan. Sub: Joe Kennedy for S. Enright.
Rd. 3 on Wed. 23rd July at Ardfert: St. Brendan’s ‘B’ 1-5; Laune Rangers 2-2.
With Ronan Doherty stamping his presence at midfield, Rangers enjoyed the most possession in the first half but failed to convert that into scores. A great goal before halftime by N. O Leary left the teams level at the break. An early goal by St. Brendan’s gave them the lead but Rangers replied with a goal by Connie Moynihan and points by Wayne Doyle and Richard O Connor. In the closing minutes, Eamonn Clifford pulled off a great save but the home side pointed to draw the game.
Laune Rangers: Eamonn Clifford, Aidan McCarthy, Josh Whelan, Jay Scully, Denis McDonnell, Tom Coleman, Frank Hill, Wayne Doyle, Ronan Doherty, Paul Daly, Connie Doherty, S. Enright, Gerard Clifford, N. O Leary, Stephen Daly. Sub: Richard O Connor for G. Clifford.
Rd. 4 on Wed. 30th July at Kilgarvan: Kilgarvan Laune Rangers.
Rd. 5 on Wed. 6th Aug. at Killorglin: Laune Rangers Crotta O Neill’s.
Co. U-12 Hurling League
Rd. 1 on Tues. 7th July at Killorglin: Laune Rangers defeated Kenmare ‘B’.
Rd. 2 on Tues. 15th July at Killorglin: Laune Rangers Na Gaeil.
South-Kerry Senior Hurling Championship
Semi-final on Sun. 23rd Nov. at Lewis Road: Dr. Crokes 2-8; Laune Rangers 0-6.
Laune Rangers made Dr. Crokes fight hard for every score and put up a very good performance
Laune Rangers’ best players were Denis McDonnell, Frank Hill, Robbie Kennedy, Shane Stack and Pat Courtney.
Laune Rangers: Eamonn Clifford, Connie Moynihan, Richard O Connor, Joe Scully, Frank Hill, Robbie Kennedy, Denis McDonnell, Brian O Sullivan, David Lynch, Paul Daly, Shane Stack, Declan O Shea, Peter Courtney, Sean Jones, J. Cronin. Sub: J. Foley.
Ref: Paddy White (Na Gaeil).
South-Kerry Junior Hurling League
Semi-final on Sun. 25th Oct. at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 4-9; Dr. Crokes 2-16 (AET)
At the end of normal time, the teams were level, Dr. Crokes 2-14, Laune Rangers 4-8. There followed 20 minutes of extra-time. Declan O Shea was sent off for striking an opponent, while Richard O Connor was sent off, having received a second yellow card. Both players vented their anger at the referee upon departing.
South-Kerry Hurling Novice Shield
That competition was played at 13-a-side.
Semi-final: Laune Rangers defeated Austin Stacks.
Final on Sun. 16th Nov. at Lewis Road: Rathmore 2-12; Laune Rangers 3-5.
Laune Rangers were best served in an entertaining game by JP Quirke, Frank Hill, Josh Whelan in defence and forwards Shane Stack, Stephen Daly, Richard O Connor and Connie Moynihan. Joe Scully was sent off the field by the referee, having received a second yellow card. Declan O Shea, who had been at the time serving a one month’s suspension, came onto the field to remonstrate with the referee and had to be sent off. After the game, the referee reported to the South-Kerry Hurling Board that he had been verbally abused by Richard O Connor and Frank Hill.
Laune Rangers: Eamonn Clifford, Aidan McCarthy, JP Quirke, Frank Hill, Josh Whelan, Joe Scully, Liam Mangan, David Lynch, Paul Daly, Shane Stack, Brian O Sullivan, Stephen Daly, Richard O Connor. Subs: John Foley, Connie Moynihan, James Cronin, Pat Courtney.
Ref: Paddy White (Na Gaeil).
Munster Ladies’ Junior Football Championship
Rd. 1 on Sat. 5th July at Walsh Park: Waterford 0-8; Kerry 1-6.
Kerry: Marie Cahillane (Dr. Crokes), Jody O Sullivan (Rathmore), Helen McKenna (Abbeydorney), Angela Hassett (Laune Rangers), Joanne Spillane (Dr. Crokes), Deirdre Dennehy (Dr. Crokes) capt., Lean Ferriter (Corca Dhuibhne), Jenny Johnston (Dr. Crokes) 1-0, pen, Jacinta Murphy (Rathmore) 0-2, Kerry O Connor (Laune Rangers) 0-1, Virginia Doona (do.), Helena Falvey (Dr. Crokes), Eileen Sayers (Corca Dhuibhne) 0-1, Ann Marie O Donoghue (Laune Rangers) 0-2, Jenny Murphy (Keel). Subs: Fleur Wyn Morgan (Keel) for V. Doona, Cathriona O Sullivan (Rathmore) for J. O Sullivan, Iliona Ní Dhubhda (Corca Dhuibhne) for A. M. O Donoghue, Deirdre O Mahony (Churchill) for Jacinta Murphy, Sarah Hickey (Legion) for Jenny Murphy.
Rd. 2 on Sat. 12th July at Doonbeg: Tipperary 3-12; Kerry 2-9.
Kerry: Marie Cahillane (Dr. Crokes), Joanne Spillane, (do.), Jenny Johnston (do.), Helena Falvey (do.), Jody O Sullivan (Rathmore), Jacinta Murphy (do.), Helen McKenna (Abbeydorney), Angela Hassett (Laune Rangers), Kerry O Connor, (do.), Virginia Doona (do.), Ann Marie O Donoghue (do.) 2-8, 1-8 frees, Lean Ní Fheiritéir (Corca Dhuibhne), Eilín Nic an tSaoir (do), Fleur Wynne Morgan (Keel), Jenny Murphy (do.) 0-1. Subs: Claire Concannon (Churchill) for A. Hassett, Therese Cahillane (Dr. Crokes) for Jenny Murphy, Catherine O Sullivan (Rathmore) for L. Ní Fheiritéir, Iliona Ní Dhubhda for H. Falvey, Louise McCarthy (Dr. Crokes) for F. Wynne Morgan.
Rd. 3 on Wed. 16th July at Beaufort: Kerry 0-3; Limerick 6-13.
Kerry: Marie Cahillane, Jody O Sullivan, Helen McKenna, Theresa Cahillane, Joanne Spillane, Deirdre Dennehy, Lean Ferriter, Jenny Johnston, Fleur Wynne-Morgan, Helen Falvey, Kerry O Connor, Virginia Doona, Ann Marie O Donoghue (0-2), Eibhlín Nic an tSaoir, Jenny Murphy (0-1). Subs: Ciara O Connor for H. Falvey, Ilona O Dowd for J. O Sullivan, Joanne Murphy for T. Cahillane, Jacinta Murphy for L. Ferriter.
Rd. 4 on Sat. 19th July at Carrigaline: Cork 4-7; Kerry 0-3.
Kerry: Marie Cahillane, Jody O Sullivan, Helen McKenna, Angela Hassett, Joanne Spillane, Deirdre Dennehy, Lean Ferriter, Jenny Johnston (0-1), Fleur Wynne-Morgan, Virginia Doona, Eibhlin Nic an tSaoir, Ilona O Dowd (0-1), Helena Falvey, Ann Marie O Donoghue (0-1), Jenny Murphy. Subs: Louise McCarthy for J. Murphy, Claire Concannon for I. O Dowd, Ciara O Connor for M. Cahillane, Theresa Cahillane for J. Spillane, Deirdre O Mahony for A.M. O Donoghue (inj.).
Co. Ladies’ Football Special League (Pat Lawlor Cup)
The county was divided into four Districts for that competition. Laune Rangers’ players played with East-Kerry.
‘A’ Final on Sat. 8th Nov. at Killorglin: East-Kerry 1-10; South-Kerry 0-11.
Stephanie Corkery scored 1-0, Kerry O Connor scored 0-2 from midfield, Ciara O Connor played well in goals, Angela Hassett played well at fullback and Sarah Jane Joy was one of the best of the forwards..
Co. Senior Ladies’ Football Championship
Laune Rangers’ players played with St. Pat’s in that competition.
Rd. 1 on Sun. 27th July at Ballymac: Abbeydorney/Ballyduff defeated St. Pat’s.
Rd. 2 on Fri. 8th Aug. at Beaufort: Dr. Crokes 4-9; St. Pat’s 3-5.
Co. Junior ‘A’ Ladies’ Football Championship
Tues. 5th Aug. at Sneem: Laune Rangers 4-11; Sneem 2-9.
Laune Rangers Austin Stacks.
Semi-final in Aug. at Milltown: Austin Stacks defeated Laune Rangers.
Co. Junior ‘B’ Ladies’ Football Championship
Tues. 22nd July at Lispole: Corca Dhuibhne 2-5; Laune Rangers 2-6.
Tues. 26th Aug. in Cloon: Laune Rangers defeated Keel.
Semi-final on Fri. 5th Sept. at Fossa; Laune Rangers defeated Legion.
Final on Sat. 13th Sept. at J.P. O Sullivan Park: Laune Rangers 3-15; Scartaglin 1-6.
After the game, Stephanie Corkery was presented with the player-of-the-match award.
Laune Rangers: Ciara O Connor, Jade O Connor, Angela Hassett, Jennifer O Connor, Bobby Corcoran, Mary Cronin, Joanne Murphy, Kerry O Connor (capt.) 0-1, Sandra Joy, Sheila Cronin, Virginia Doona (0-1), Stephanie Corkery (2-5), Sheila Griffin, Ann Marie O Donoghue (1-5), Amy Houlihan. Subs: Sarah Jane Joy (0-1), Eimear Knightley (0-2), Susan Joy, Josie Sugrue (all played).
Ref: William O Shea (Keel).
Co. Minor Ladies’ Football League
Laune Rangers were grouped with Legion, Kilcummin/Spa, Keel and Currow.
Munster Ladies’ U-16 Football Championship
Final on Sat. 26th April at Macroom: Cork 3-7; Kerry 0-6.
Kerry: Laoise Driscoll (Southern Gaels), Katie Warren (Dr. Crokes), Ciara O Connor (Laune Rangers), Catriona O Sullivan (Legion), Sarah Fitzmaurice (Southern Gaels), Niamh McKenna (Milltown/Castlemaine), Bernie Cronin (Southern Gaels) capt., Jacinta Murphy (Rathmore) 0-2, Deirdre O Sullivan (Southern Gaels), Eimear Knightley (Laune Rangers), Sarah Hickey (Legion) 0-1, Sarah Jane Joy (Laune Rangers), Veronica O Shea (Southern Gaels), Deirdre Corridon (do) 0-1, Joanne Brosnan (Scartaglin). Subs: Cartiona Desmond (Rathmore) for E. Knightley, Amanda Brosnan (Dr. Crokes) 0-1 for SJ Joy, Alaine O Sullivan (Southern Gaels) 0-1 for J. Murphy.
Co. U-16 Girls’ Football League Div. 1
Div. 1 consisted of Laune Rangers, Austin Stacks, Corca Dhuibhne, Southern Gaels ‘B’, Scartaglin, Legion, Abbeydorney, Kenmare, Milltown/Listry.
Rd. 1 on Wed. 30th July. at Cloon: Laune Rangers 6-7; Milltown/Listry 1-8.
Rd. 2 on Wed. 6th Aug. at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 6-12; Scartaglin 2-7.
Rd. 4 on Wed. 13th Aug. at Cloon; Laune Rangers Corca Dhuibhne.
Rd. 6 on Thurs. 28th Aug. at Direen: Legion defeated Laune Rangers.
Laune Rangers: Katie Buckley, Sharon Healy, Sinead Pigott, Niamh Walsh, Muireann Clifford, Ciara O Connor, Niamh Pigott, Michelle Courtney (1-0), Linda Courtney, Aoife McGillycuddy (0-1), Sarah Jane Joy (1-1), Caroline Healy (1-3), Sarah Houlihan (2-4), Eimear Knightley (1-0), Dearbhaill Cronin O Reilly. Subs: Teresa Doyle for K. Buckley, Denise O Connor for A. McGillycuddy, Lorraine Gorman for D. Cronin O Reilly.
Rd. 7 on Thurs. 4th Sept. at Ballymac: Laune Rangers defeated Abbeydorney.
Laune Rangers: Katie Buckley, Sharon Healy, Sinead Pigott, Niamh Walsh, Muireann Clifford, Ciara O Connor, Niamh Pigott, Linda Courtney (0-1, free), Michelle Courtney, Caroline Healy (1-3), Sarah Jane Joy (0-1), Lisa Murphy, Sarah Houlihan (2-1), Eimear Knightley (1-5), Aoife McGillycuddy (1-0). Subs: Dearbhall Cronin O Reilly for A. McGillycuddy, Hazel Poff for L. Murphy, Teresa Doyle for S. Healy, Lorraine O Gorman for C. Healy, Denise O Connor for S. Houlihan.
Final on Sun. 28th Sept. at Fossa: Legion 2-10; Laune Rangers 2-9.
Munster Ladies’ U-14 Football Championship
Mentors – Paudie Breen (Legion), Danny Healy (Laune Rangers) and Kathleen Healy (Laune Rangers).
Rd. 1 on Sat. 10th May at Newcastlewest: Kerry 12-24; Tipperary 0-2.
Rd. 2 on Sat. 10th May at Abbeyfeale: Limerick 2-3; Kerry 5-9.
Rd. 3: Kerry lost to Waterford.
Semi-final on Sat. 7th June at J.P. O Sullivan Park, Killorglin: Kerry 4-4; Cork 8-10.
Kerry: Amy Murphy (Rathmore), Denise Hallissey (Kenmare), Gráinne Kerins (Scartaglin), Catriona O Connor (Abbeydorney), Sharon Houlihan (Glenbeigh), Tracy O Sullivan (Southern Gaels), Sinead O Sullivan (do.), Amanda Brosnan (Dr. Crokes), Marie Twomey (Desmonds), Caoimhe Young (Southern Gaels), Deborah Murphy (Legion) 1-1, Ciara Moore (Rathmore), Amy Foley (Beaufort) 1-3, Elaine Ryall (Abbeydorney) 1-0, Tracy Sheehan (Glenbeigh). Subs; Edel Murphy (Glenbeigh) 1-0 for C. Moore, Deirdre O Sullivan (Corca Dhuibhne) for S. Houlihan, Mary Cronin (Southern Gaels ) for T. Sheehan, Louise O Sullivan (Southern Gaels) for C. Young, Danielle O Brien (Dr. Crokes), Maura Griffin (Glenbeigh), Lisa Dennehy (Beaufort), Susan Hickson (Annascaul), Marie Foran (Legion), Eimear Breathnach (Corca Dhuibhne), Natasha Nic Gearailt (do.), Fiona McSweeney (Kilcummin), Mairéad O Driscoll (Southern Gaels), Sinead O Sullivan (do.), Ann Marie Healy (Laune Rangers), Rachel O Sullivan (Glenbeigh).
Co. U-12 Girls’ Football League Div. 1
Div. 1 consisted of Laune Rangers, Glenbeigh, Southern Gaels ‘A’, Desmonds, Scartaglin, Kenmare, Southern Gaels ‘B’ and Corca Dhuibhne.
Rd. 1 on Tues. 8th July at Killorglin: Laune Rangers defeated Kenmare.
Rd. 2 on Tues. 15th July at Killorglin: Laune Rangers Southern Gaels ‘B’.
Rd. 3 on Tues. 22nd July at Gallerus: Corca Dhuibhne defeated Laune Rangers.
Rd. 4 on Tues. 29th July at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 4-6; Glenbeigh 3-6.
Rd. 5 on Sat. 2nd Aug. at Scartaglin: Scartaglin 6-12; Laune Rangers 2-7.
Rd. 6 on Sat. 16th Aug. at Killorglin: Laune Rangers Desmonds.
Rd. 7 on Thurs. 28th Aug. at Renard: Southern Gaels ‘A’ defeated Laune Rangers.
Co. Community Games Girls Football (U-12)
Trainers – Noel O Mahony and Siobhán O Connor.
Mon. 2nd June at Kilcummin: Rd. 1 – Killorglin defeated Glenbeigh/Glencar.
Rd. 2 – Killorglin defeated Kilcummin.
Semi-final – Killorglin defeated Ardfert/Kilmoyley.
Final – Cahersiveen defeated Killorglin.
Killorglin: Aisling Clifford (capt.), Yvonne Costello, A. Quirke, M. Healy, Roisin Looney, D. O Riordan, K. Clifford, M. O Shea, S. Lodder, A. Long, Shauna Begley, A. McSweeney, C. Cronin O Reilly, S. Cronin O Reilly, L. Kelliher, H. Kemp, Joanne O Callaghan, J. Kelly, S. Coffey.
Administration/Miscellany
Sean Kelly, Ciarraí, was elected as Uachtarán CLG at Annual Congress in Belfast on Fri. 11 April. James Coffey and Jerome Conway were on the Kerry delegation.
Jerome Conway, having been Secretary of Féile Peile na nOg since 1997, was appointed as Secretary of An Coiste Stiúrtha Náisiúnta Féile na nGael, with Jim Berry (Loch Gorman) as Chairman, Jim Whelan (Coca Cola), Donal Hickey (Baile Átha Cliath), Sheila Wallace (Cumann Camógaíochta na nGael) and Seamus Elliot (Aontroma) as the committee. Féile na nGael was held in the Midlands – the base was Mullingar.
Jerome Conway was Chairman of the Munster Club League Committee.
Kerry Annual Convention was held in the Brandon Hotel, Tralee. The following officers were elected: Chairman – Sean Walsh, Vice-Chairman – Jerome Conway, Secretary – Eamonn O Sullivan, Joint- Treasurers – John McMahon and James Coffey, PRO – Willie O Connor, Central Council Delegate – Gerald McKenna, Munster Council Delegates – Teddy O Sullivan (169 votes) and Peter Twiss (104 votes), Derry Murphy (87 votes), Der O Connor (73 votes), Development Officer – Patrick O Sullivan, Youth Officer – Mike McCarthy, Coaching Officer – Bernie Reen, Cultural Officer – Liam Cotter (137 votes), Seamus Ó Luing (93 votes).
Bart Moriarty was the Kerry Referees’ Co-ordinator.
Cumann na mBunscol Chiarraí officers for 2003: Cathaoirleach – Mícheál Ó Cinnéide: Leas-Chathaoirligh – Jerome Conway and Tomás Ó hAiniféin; Rúnaí – Paddy Keane; Fo-Rúnaíthe – Geraldine Behan and Máire Lucid; Cisteoirí – John Clifford and Liam Ó Conchubhair; PRO – Tom Roche; Development Officer – Jackie Walsh, Co. Board Delegate – Maurice O Mahony; Hurling Officers – Jim McEllistrim, Conor Kearney and Paudie County; Handball Officer – Seán Ó Domhnaill.
At the Co. Ladies’ Football Board Convention on Sun. 12th Jan. in the Meadowlands Hotel, Tralee, John O Connor (Laune Rangers) was elected as Vice-Chairman, Anne O Connor (Laune Rangers) was elected as Ass. Treasurer and Kathleen Healy (Laune Rangers) was elected as Registrar.
Paudie Breen (Legion), Dan Healy (Laune Rangers) and Kathleen Healy (Laune Rangers) were appointed as mentors to the Co. U-14 Girls’ Football team.
The Mid-Kerry Board AGM was held in the Club-rooms, Glenbeigh on Wed. 29th Jan. The following officers were elected: Chairman – John Twiss (Milltown/Castlemaine); Vice-Chairman – James Doyle (Beaufort) 20 votes, Pat Casey (Cromane) 12 votes; Secretary – Kieran O Shea (do.); Treasurers – George Evans (Keel) and Dan Carey (Cromane); PRO – Mike O Shea (Laune Rangers).
A Cromane motion ‘That the referee should have a full compliment of officials for Senior Championship and knock-out games in the League’ was passed.
A letter was received by the Secretary of Laune Rangers Club, dated 10th Nov, as follows: “I am resigning as Secretary of the Mid-Kerry GAA Board, with immediate effect. My decision is based on the total lack of respect shown to my position and to the Mid-Kerry Board by the Cromane and Laune Rangers Clubs.”
Mid-Kerry Bord na nOg was organised by Milltown/Castlemaine. Chairman – Brendan Twiss, Secretary – Christy Murphy.
The AGM of Laune Rangers’ Bord na nOg took place in the Fishery on Fri. 31st Jan. In attendance were John Quirke (Chairman), Colm Conway (Secretary), John Clifford, James Riordan, Bart Moriarty, Pa Sheehan, Enda Clifford, John O Connor, Anne O Connor, Timmy Brosnan, Kathleen Healy, James Ferris, Diarmuid O Sullivan, Danny Healy, Ger Flynn, Pat Pigott, John O Dwyer, Michael Corkery, Ger O Sullivan, Iraneus Looney, Brian O Shea, Eamonn Carey. There was an apology from James O Mahony.
The Chairman welcomed everybody and thanked them for attending. (The Secretary’s report was given at the end of 2002). The Chairman then gave his address. He thanked many people. He thanked the ISK for the use of its facilities during the year. He highlighted a problem of small numbers at U-10 level and he hoped that this would improve. He congratulated the U-12 team and all involved on winning the Co. and Mid-Kerry Championships. He admitted some slackness in dealing with the large numbers and expressed regret that helpers, who had been asked and who had agreed, did not commit themselves to the task. He thanked the U-14’s but he hoped for a better effort from a few players. He congratulated our representatives on the Mid-Kerry U-14 panel. At U-16 level, John spoke of what a loss to Bord na nOg Joe Hayes would be, having stepped up to Senior ‘B’ management. He thanked the sponsors, supporters, parents, the Secretary and the Senior Club (here highlighting that James Riordan would be a loss). He showed appreciation to the Starlite Laundrette, Flynn’s Bus Hire, Mid-Kerry Board (Kevin Griffin, Glenbeigh), schools and those who attended coaching courses.
John Clifford, Laune Rangers’ Senior Chairman, addressed the meeting. He thanked the Bord na nOg Chairman and Secretary for their work all year. He acknowledged the amount of work done at that level by all involved and referred to them as the unsung heroes of the club. He appealed for more people to get involved but he also thanked all the coaches, sponsors and referees. Finally, he wished all at Bord na nOg the best for the following year.
The following officers were elected:
Chairman – John Quirke (proposed by John Clifford, seconded by Eamonn Carey),
Vice-Chairman – Joe Hayes (proposed by John Quirke, seconded by Pat Pigott),
Secretary – Colm Conway (proposed by Bart Moriarty, seconded by Enda Clifford),
PRO – Enda Clifford (proposed by John Quirke, seconded by Pa Sheehan).
The following mentors were appointed:
U-8 – Dermot O Shea, James Ferris and one parent. Later the following came to help: Eoin Ferris, John Quirke, James O Mahony, John Foley and Michael O Sullivan.
U-10 – Iraneus Looney, Brian O Shea and Donal Pigott.
U-12 – John O Dwyer, Diarmuid O Sullivan.
U-14 – Michael Corkery and Enda Clifford.
U-16 – Colm Conway. It was decided that other selectors would also be found (Later Pat O Riordan and Donncha Curran came on board).
The following items were discussed:
- Bart Moriarty pointed out that a person refereeing a match at any level was required to have a referees’ course done. He also pointed out that only 5 substitutes were allowed, no matter how far ahead a team was in a game. John O Dwyer, referring to an incident during the year, had raised that matter.
- James Riordan expressed disappointment at the long delay in presenting the medals to the U-12 team. It was explained the it was Co. Board policy to give the medals to the clubs at the first meeting of the year.
- James Ferris, John O Dwyer and Pat Pigott expressed delight at the large numbers at U-12 grade. They pointed out how important it was to look after those players. John O Dwyer said that they had tried to accommodate as many as possible. Diarmuid O Sullivan suggested some sort of a Town League to give competitive fixtures to those players. It was agreed that, if help could be attained, competitive games would be found for the players.
- James Ferris proposed that posters should be put up around the town to inform people of Bord na nOg fixtures. He felt that more people would attend those games if they knew that they were on. It was agreed that the PRO would handle that.
- James Ferris expressed delight that young people like Pa Sheehan and Joe Hayes had been working at Bord na nOg level but expressed a little concern that it was the same faces every year at the AGM.
- James Ferris proposed a night for the parents of Laune Rangers’ players and others to ‘get to know’ people and possibly encourage them to help the club. He wanted a social gathering to attract new members and get more familiar with people. Pat Pigott agreed with this on principle, as many new families had come to Killorglin in recent years and the club needed to tap into that resource. Instead, he proposed a family ‘open day’ in the Track with all sorts of activities, fun, food, etc. being provided by Laune Rangers for parents and kids. The topic of insurance was raised but John Quirke agreed with the proposal.
- Votes of sympathy were passed to the families of Maura Tuohy, Mrs. Anne O Shea (Langford St.) and Jack Ahern, Tulligmore.
The Chairman thanked all present at the meeting for attending and wished Bord na nOg good luck for the coming year.”
Cromane and Keel were allowed to amalgamate at minor level. Cromane and Listry were amalgamated at juvenile level.
Michael ‘Dicey’ O Reilly trained the Mid-Kerry Senior Football team. Selectors – Pat O Shea (Cromane) and Paddy Hilliard (Keel).
Laune Rangers held an EGM on Sun. 12th Jan. in Scoil Mhuire. The following officers were elected: Secretary – John Griffin, Joint-Treasurer – Edso Crowley, Registrar – Keith Bradburn. ‘B’ team selectors – Mike O Shea, Maurice Corkery, Joe Hayes and Dominic Crowley.
Laune Rangers Ladies’ AGM elected the following officers for 2003: Chairman – John O Connor, Secretary – Kathleen Healy. Trainers: U-12 – Susan Joy; U-16 – Pat Pigott, Ann Lynch and Donncha Curran; Minor & Senior – John O Connor and Paula Lucey. Sarah Jane Joy, Sinead Pigott, Niamh Pigott and Ciara O Connor took part in the Foundation Level Coaching Course and helped the U-12 and U-14 coaches.
Membership of Laune Rangers Club cost €30 for family, €20 for single adult and €7 for student/minor.
Laune Rangers’ Club sponsors were: Killorglin Credit Union (main sponsors), AIB, Accelerated Drain Cleaning, Christy Kissane Taverns, London, Lee Strand, Starlite Dry Cleaners, Flynns’ Bus Hire, Champs Euro Spar, The Fishery, Quirke’s Sand and Gravel, Bunkers Bar and Restaurant, Mulvihill’s Pharmacy, Larkin’s Bar, Horgan’s Menswear.
The death occurred on 31st Jan. of Maura Tuohy, Gortloughera. She had been one of the founder members of the Laune Rangers’ Ladies Committee in the seventies. She was a fanatical Laune Rangers’ supporter and followed the teams throughout the county and beyond. A guard of honour of past and present players and officials of the club attended at her funeral.
The tragic death occurred on 11th Nov. of Timmy Houlihan, Douglas. He had played juvenile football with Laune Rangers before embarking on a life as a jockey in Kildare. A guard of honour of club members and players was provided at his funeral.
In accordance with Kerry Co. Board bye-law, Laune Rangers submitted the following list of first 18 players, who would not be eligible to play with the ‘B’ or ‘C’ teams during the year, unless they were regraded and replaced by another player: Tony Lyons, Noel Lynch, Eoin Ferris, Adrian Hassett, Paul Costello, John Sheehan, Brendan Fitzgerald, Johnny Lynch, Liam Hassett, Pa O Sullivan, Billy O Shea, Barry O Sullivan, Brian Gannon, Mike Frank Russell, Colin O Connor, Jerry O Brien, Terence Houlihan, Shane O Sullivan.
John Clifford and John Griffin attended the Launch of the Credit Union Co. Leagues at Teach Íosagáin, Rathmore, on Mon. 10th March, at the invitation of the Kerry Co. Board.
At the GAC meeting on 29th April, the transfer of Fergal Foley, who gave his address as No. 4 Rockfield N.S., from Laune Rangers to Listry was sanctioned. He hadn’t played with Laune Rangers since 1992, when he was a minor.
Planning permission was received from Kerry Co. Council, per EG Pettit & Co., Killarney (Pa Murphy), to construct an extension to the existing dressing-rooms in JP O Sullivan Park, to include club-rooms, administration space/offices and viewing area.
The weekly club lotto continued to be the main source of income for the day-to-day running of the Laune Rangers Club. The lotto sellers included Margaret Brown, Kerry O Connor, Patrick Foley (Dungeel), Billy O Sullivan, Bart Moriarty, Pat O Riordan, Celsius O Connor, Michael O Shea, Ted Mahony, Bridget McKenna, Jimmy Hayes, John Purcell, Colette, Davy O Shea, Coffey’s Bar, O Shea’s Bar, Bunkers Bar, Falvey’s Bar, Step Inn Bar, Matty Cahill, The Fishery, The Kingdom Bar, Paud O Neill’s Bar, Peter Lyons, Francis McMahon, Sheila O Neill’s Bar, Johnny Galvin, Paul O Shea, Jim Galvin, Sheahan’s Bar, James Riordan (Gurrane), Killorglin Golf Club.
The results were as follows:
Sun. 5th Jan. (jackpot of €3,400 not won) – Prize-winners: J. Griffin, Dooks (€95), Mary Begadon (€50), Sonny O Connell, Killarney (€50).
Sun. 12th Jan. (jackpot of €3,600 not won) – Prize-winners: Mary Teahan, Langford St. (€95), Ann Davis, Iveragh Park (€50), James Coffey, Beaufort (€50).
Sun. 19th Jan. – jackpot of €3,800 won by Michael Little, Cromane.
Sun. 26th Jan. – jackpot of €1,600 won by Pat O Shea, Sunhill.
Sun. 2nd Feb. (jackpot of €1,600 not won) – Prize-winners: Colin O Donoghue (€95), Kathleen Fitzpatrick (€50), Meadhbh Sheahan (€50).
Sun. 9th Feb. (jackpot of €1,800 not won) – Prize-winners: Collette Kelliher, Beaufort (€95), Noreen Hoare (€50), Gobnait O Shea, Lonhart (€50).
Sun. 16th Feb. – jackpot of €2,000 won by Mossy Pierce.
Sun. 23rd Feb. (jackpot of €1,600 not won) – Prize-winners: P. Murphy (€95), Bernie and Colm O Shea (€50), Helena Hurley (€50).
Sun. 2nd March (jackpot of €1,800 not won) – Prize-winners: Jack O Dwyer, Lynch’s Heights (€95), Kevin Galvin, Clover Hill Close (€50), Agnes Foley, Mountain View (€50).
Sun. 9th March (jackpot of €2,000 not won) – Prize-winners: Eileen Carey, Lonhart (€95), Des Ahern, Laharn (€50), Mary O Sullivan, Forest View (€50).
Sun. 16th March (jackpot of €2,200 not won) – Prize-winners: Tess Kelly (€95), Mary O Mahony (€50), Bridie Naughton (€50).
Sun. 23rd March (jackpot of €2,400 not won) – Prize-winners: Maureen Myers (€95), Denis O Brien, Caragh Lake (€50), James O Sullivan (€50).
Sun. 30th March (jackpot of €2,600 not won) – Prize-winners: Tadhg Moriarty, Dunmaniheen (€95), Kathleen Cahillane (€50), Enda Clifford, Dromin (€50).
Sun. 6th April (jackpot of €2,800 not won) – Prize-winners: Mary Taylor, Glencar (€95), Bridget McKenna, Steelroe (€50), Mary Keane, c/o Klinge (€50).
Sun. 13th April (jackpot of €3,000 not won) – Prize-winners – Martin Griffin, Glenbeigh (€95), Carmel O Sullivan, Mountain View (€50), Enda Clifford, Dromin (€50).
Sun. 20th April (jackpot of €3,200 not won) – Prize-winners: Tadhg Fox (€95), Maria Fenton, Muingaphouca (€50), Anne O Sullivan (€50).
Sun. 27th April (jackpot of €3,400 not won) – Prize-winners: Vincent Evans, Dunmaniheen (€95), Barry Harmon, Dunmaniheen (€50), S.O.C. (€50).
Sun. 4th May (jackpot of €3,600 not won) – Prize-winners: Eoin Fitzgerald (€95), Jean Brosnan (€50), Valerie Connor Fogarty, Cork (€50).
Sun. 11th May (jackpot of €3,800 not won) – Prize-winners: Eileen O Connor (€95), Anne Fenton (€50), M. O Riordan (50).
Sun. 18th May (jackpot of €4,000 not won) – Prize-winners: Michael Little, Stookisland (€95), Myles Healy (€50), Michael B. O Sullivan (€50).
Sun. 1st June (jackpot of €4,400 not won) – Prize-winners:
Sun. 8th June (jackpot of €4,600 not won) – Prize-winners: Joan Moriarty, Inch (€95), Eileen Griffin (€50), Pat Griffin, Taxi Cabs (€50).
Sun. 15th June (jackpot of €4,800 not won) – Prize-winners: Eileen O Leary, Upper Tullig (€95), Con O Connor, Iveragh Park (€50), N. O Donoghue, Steelroe (€50).
Sun. 22nd June (jackpot of €5,000 not won) – Prize-winners: Denis Murphy, Caragh Lake (€95), Noreen O Connor (€50), Con O Connor, Iveragh Park (€50).
Sun. 29th June – Jackpot of €5,200 won by Helen O Connor, Rangue.
Sun. 6th July (jackpot of €1,600 not won) – Prize-winners: Evelyn Coffey (€95), Jimmy Foley (€50), Maureen Brennan, Ownagarry (€50).
Sun. 13th July (jackpot of €1,800 not won) – Prize-winners: Cornelius Doona, the Kingdom Bar (€95), Kate and Maud Cahillane (€50), Caroline O Connor (€50).
Sun. 20th July (jackpot of €2,000 not won) – Prize-winners: Brendan McCarthy, c/o O Donnell’s Bakery (€95), Michael McGillycuddy, Glosha (€50), Colette Boyle, Sunhill (€50).
Sun. 27th July (jackpot of €2,200 not won) – Prize-winners: Patie Healy, c/o Klinge (€95), Harry Carey, Tullig (€50), Joan Allman (€50).
Sun. 3rd Aug. (jackpot of €2,400 not won) – Prize-winners: Eamonn Kelly (€95), James Foley (€50), Josie McGahan (€50).
Sun. 10th Aug. (jackpot of €2,400) – no draw due to Puck Fair.
Sun. 17th Aug. (jackpot of €2,600 not won) – Prize-winners: Ann Marie McGillycuddy, Milltown (€95), Kevin Galvin, Clover Hill Close (€50), Frances O Brien, Iveragh Park (€50).
Sun. 24th Aug. (jackpot of €2,800 not won) – Prize-winners: Myles O Brien, Caragh Lake (€95), Paul O Connor (€50), Rhetta Howard, Langfiord St. (€50),
Sun. 31st Aug. (jackpot of €3,000 not won) – Prize-winners: James Moore (€95), Damien O Connor, Ballykissane (€50), Marette Cronin, Melrose Grove (€50).
Sun. 7th Sept. (jackpot of €3,200 not won) – Prize-winners: Paul O Mahony, Cahersiveen (€95), John D. O Shea, Dromid (€50), Colin O Connor, Iveragh Park (€50).
Sun. 14th Sept. (jackpot of €3,400 not won) – Prize-winners: Anne Mangan (€95), Caroline O Connor (€50), Gene Moriarty (€50).
Sun. 21st Sept. (jackpot of €3,600 not won) – Prize-winners: Josephine McAuliffe (€95), Mike O Shea (€50), Mike Casey (€50).
Sun. 28th Sept. (jackpot of €3,800 not won) – Prize-winners: Tony Carey (€95), Michael Brown (€50), Geraldine Ferris (€50).
Sun. 5th Oct. (jackpot of €4,000 not won) – Prize-winners: Margaret Crimmons, Keel (€95), Mary O Leary, Milltown (€50), Mrs. Ellie O Shea, Sunhill (€50).
Sun. 12th Oct. (jackpot of €4,200 not won) – Prize-winners: John Ryan (€95), John McGillycuddy (€50), Joan O Shea (€50).
Sun. 19th Oct. (jackpot of €4,400 not won) – Prize-winners: Peter Twiss, Laharn (€95), Adrian Scannell (€50), Johnny J. O Connor (€50).
Sun. 2nd Nov. (jackpot of €4,800 not won) – Prize-winners: Myles O Brien, Caragh Lake (€95), Liam Concannon, c/o O Neill’s Bar (€50), Jimmy Wong, Sunhill (€50).
Sun. 9th Nov. – jackpot of €5,000 shared between Karen Boyle, Sunhill and James Johnston, Dungeel.
Sun. 16th Nov. jackpot of €1,600 won by Ivo O Sullivan, Anglont.
Sun. 23rd Nov. (jackpot of €1,600 not won) – Prize-winners: Dan McKenna, Firies (€95), Brendan McCarthy, Rangue (€50), Brendan Clifford, Mountain View (€50).
Sun. 30th Nov. (jackpot of €1,800 not won) – Prize-winners: Tom O Sullivan, Upper Tullig (€95), Belinda Lynch, Tullig (€50), Mike Kelliher (€50).
Sun. 7th Dec. – jackpot of €2,000 won by Kitty Foley, Firies. Xmas prizes: Mrs. Una Costello (hamper), Kathleen O Connor (bottle of whiskey), Mrs. Mary Murphy (bottle of wine).
Sun. 14th Dec. (jackpot of €1,600 not won) – Prize-winners: Ger Moriarty, Glenbeigh (€95), Thomas Evans, Reeks View (€50), Marie McKenna, c/o Fishery (€50).
Co. U-21 Football Championship final on Sun. 12th Oct. at ASP: South-Kerry 1-12; Austin Stacks 2-6.
Co. MFL Final (Div. 1): Beaufort 0-15; Kerins O Rahillys 1-7.
Co. MFC Final on Mon. 8th Sept. at Austin Stack Park: Mid-Kerry 2-14; Kerins O Rahillys 0-9.
Co. SFL (Div. 1) Final: St. Mary’s 2-8; Austin Stacks 1-9.
Co. Senior Club Final on Sun. 1st Feb. 2004 at Connolly Park: Austin Stacks 1-9; An Ghaeltacht 0-11.
Co. IFC final on Sun. 7th Dec. at J.P. O Sullivan Park: Milltown/Castlemaine 1-7; Waterville 0-5.
Co. JFC final on Sun. 23rd Nov: Annascaul 3-6; Currow 2-7.
Co. NFC final on Sun. 2nd Nov. at ASP, Tralee: Keel 1-8; Beale 0-5.
Mid-Kerry SFL Final on Sun. 23rd March at Cromane: Milltown/Castlemaine 0-13; Beaufort 0-11.
Mid-Kerry MFC Final on Sun. 21st Dec. at Glenbeigh; Beaufort 2-8; Milltown/Castlemaine 0-4.
Mid-Kerry MFL final on Sun. 2nd Nov. at Beaufort: Beaufort 1-9; Glenbeigh/Glencar 0-8.
Mid-Kerry U-16 Football Final at Milltown: Beaufort 4-12; Milltown/Castlemaine 1-4.
Co. U-16 FC final (replay) on Thurs. 12th Sept. at Austin Stack Park: Austin Stacks 1-12; Beaufort 0-4.
Co. U-14 Football Championship final on Sat. 31st May at Fossa: Dr. Crokes 7-13; Beaufort 2-2.
Jeremy O Callaghan played with the Kerry Primary School’s team versus Limerick Primary Schools’ team prior to the Munster Senior Football final at Killarney on Sun. 11th July and he scored 0-2.
On Fri. 17th Oct. the Mid-Kerry Primary Schools’ skills finals were held in Milltown. Scoil Mhuire, represented by Patrick Joy, Audie Dunlea and Morgan O Sullivan, won the team event. Three players finished with 24 points out a possible 27 in the individual event – Audie Dunlea (Scoil Mhuire), Gavin O Grady (Glenbeigh N.S.) and Michael Shaughnessy (Cromane N.S.).
On Thurs. 27th Nov. at Austin Stack Park, the Co. Primary Schools’ Football Skills competition took place. The individual results were: 1st Michael Shaughnessy, Cromane NS, 2nd Audie Dunlea, Scoil Mhuire NS, 3rd Shane O Sullivan, Aughatubrid NS.
The team results were: 1st Caherleaheen NS, 2nd The Monastery, Killarney, 3rd Scoil Mhuire NS and St. Joseph’e NS, Rathmore.
Peter Lyons refereed the following games, amongst others, for the Kerry Co. Board:
Senior League Div. 1 on Sat. 19th April at Connolly Park: Austin Stacks 2-9; Kerins O Rahillys 1-9.
Senior Championship quarter-final on Sun. 7th Sept. at Tralee: An Ghaeltacht 1-15; East-Kerry 0-8.
Junior Ladies’ Football Final on Sat. 20th Sept. at Killorglin: Austin Stacks 2-7; Abbeydorney 0-11.
Senior Club Championship on Sun. 19th Oct. at Rathmore: Rathmore 2-10; Glenflesk 0-8.
Senior League Div. 2 on Sun. 26th Oct. at Dromid: Dromid Pearses 1-9; Gneeveguilla 0-8.
Centenary Cup semi-final on Sun. 23rd Nov. at Killorglin: Waterville 0-11; Dingle 0-8.
Senior League Div. 1 Final on Sun. 7th Dec. at Connolly Park: Austin Stacks 1-9; St. Mary’s 2-8.
Peter Lyons refereed the following game, amongst others, for the Mid-Kerry Board:
Senior League Final on Sun. 23rd March at Cromane: Milltown/Castlemaine 0-13; Beaufort 0-11.
Senior Championship Quarter-final on Sat. 18th Oct. at Keel: Keel 1-10; Glenbeigh/Glencar 2-7.
Minor Football League Final on Sun. 2nd Nov. at Beaufort: Beaufort 1-9; Glenbeigh/Glencar 0-8.
Peter Lyons refereed the following games, amongst others, for the South-Kerry Board:
Senior Championship on Sat. 1st Nov. at Cahersiveen: Dromid Pearses 1-10; Renard 0-5.
Senior Championship on Sat. 1st Nov. at Cahersiveen: Waterville 0-6. Skellig Rangers 0-3.
Senior Championship on Sun. 2nd Nov. at Waterville: St. Mary’s 0-12; Valentia 2-5.
Senior Championship on Sun. 2nd Nov. at Waterville: St. Michael’s/Foilmore 2-10; Sneem 1-11.
Sn. Champ. Semi-final on Sun. 16th Nov. at Cahersiveen: St. Michael’s/Foilmore 0-12; Waterville 0-7.
Senior Champ. Quarter-final on Sat. 22nd Nov. at Cahersiveen: St. Mary’s 1-21; Derrynane 0-4.
Senior Championship semi-final on Sat. 29th Nov. at Waterville: St. Mary’s 0-11; Dromid Pearses 0-8.
Peter Lyons refereed the following game, amongst others, for the West-Kerry Board:
Senior Championship Semi-final on Sun. 14th Dec. at Castlegregory: Lispole 1-7; An Ghaeltacht 1-5.
Peter Lyons refereed the following Colleges games, amongst others:
Corn Ui Mhuirí Final in March: Coláiste na Sceilge Tralee CBS.
Russell Shield Final on Mon. 12th May at Caherslee: Presentation, Milltown 4-7; Mercy Mounthawk 2-7.
Munster Colleges Moran Cup Semi-final on Wed. 12th Nov: St. Brendan’s 2-9; Tralee CBS 0-7.
Rd. 1 Corn Uí Mhuirí SFC on Wed. 8th Oct. at Cromane: Coláiste na Sceilge 0-14; St. Brendan’s 0-7.
To celebrate the re-development of Templenoe Pitch on Sat. 26th April, Kerry played Dublin in a Senior Football Challenge game and lost by 0-16 to 1-9.
Kerry: Diarmuid Murphy, Tomás Ó Sé, Seamus Moynihan, Paul Galvin, Aidan O Mahony, Eamonn Fitzmaurice, John Sheehan, Darragh Ó Sé, Paul Kennedy, Colin O Connor (0-1), Eoin Brosnan (0-2), Billy Sheehan, Declan Quill (0-5, 4 frees), Liam Hassett, John Crowley (0-1). Subs: Micheál Quirke (1-0) for C. O Connor, Seamus Scanlon for B. Sheehan, Tom O Sullivan for J. Sheehan, Riobard Mac Gearailt for E. Brosnan, Mossy Lyons for A. O Mahony, Shane Cremin for E. Fitzmaurice.
Laune Rangers held a fund-raising function entitled ‘Who wants to be a Thousandaire?’ in the CYMS Hall on Sat. 3rd May. Tickets cost €10 and there was a bar exemption.
Laune Rangers’ Golf Society captain was Pat O Mahony and the Captain’s Prize was played at the Ring of Kerry Golf Club on Sat. 10th May. Karl Falvey was the winner.
The Mid-Kerry Scor na nOg finals were held in Milltown on Fri. 21st Nov. Laune Rangers were represented by Figure Dancing (1st) – Sarah Jane Joy, Lynn Cahillane, Karen Joy and Aisling Clifford; Tráth na gCeist (1st) – Simon Brosnan, Liam Clifford, Morgan O Sullivan; Rinnce Set (1st) – Sean Joy, Shane O Connor, Fionan Crowley, Jeremy O Callaghan, Sarah Jane Joy, Roisin O Sullivan, Caroline O Riordan, Karen Joy; Ceol Uirlise (2nd) – Roisin Looney, Sinead Cahillane, Karen Joy, Nicole Mangan.
The winners went forward to the Co. Semi-final on Sun. 23rd Nov. and the Figure Dancing and Set qualified for the Co. Final.
The following Scor a nÓg items from Laune Rangers’ club competed in the Co. Scór na nÓg finals in the Gleneagle Hotel on Sun. 14th Dec: Figure Dancing – Sarah Jane Joy, Lynn Cahillane, Karen Joy and Aisling Clifford; Quiz – Simon Brosnan, Liam Clifford and Morgan O Sullivan.
Austin O Malley, son of Aileen O Mahony and nephew of Noel O Mahony (Laune Rangers), having had a brief spell on the Mayo panel for the FBD League in 1999/2000, returned to the Mayo senior panel in 2003.
At the end of the year, Kerry’s Eye chose its team of the year from players that had played for the clubs and their county, as follows: Tony Lyons (Laune Rangers), Marc Ó Sé (An Ghaeltacht), Brendan O Mahony (John Mitchel’s), Morgan O Shea (Kerins O Rahillys), Garrath Walsh (do.), Tomás Ó Sé (An Ghaeltacht), John Alan O Sullivan (St. Mary’s), Johnny Lynch (Laune Rangers), Maurice Fitzgerald (St. Mary’s), Declan Quill (Kerins O Rahillys), Neil Sheehy (Annascaul), Aidan O Shea (Dr. Crokes), Declan O Sullivan (Dromid), Dara Ó Cinnéide (An Ghaeltacht), Kevin Lynch (Desmonds).
Laune Rangers held their Annual Social on Sat. 21st Feb. 2004 in the Manor Inn (organised by James Ferris). Music was by the Connerys. Senior player-of-the-year was awarded to Johnny Lynch, ‘B’ team player-of-the-year went to John F. O Brien and the club person-of-the-year was awarded to Johnny Galvin.
Colm Conway delivered the following Secretary’s Report to the AGM of Laune Rangers Bord na nOg in the Fishery on Fri. 6th Feb. 2004: “It was a very good year at Bord na nOg level in Laune Rangers with continued improvement at all grades. During a long season, a total of 68 games were played.
U-8 and U-10
It was very encouraging to see such large numbers of boys and girls attending on Sunday mornings throughout the year. The U-10’s worked hard all the year, improving their skills and challenge games were organised against the likes of Austin Stacks, Dr. Crokes, Spa etc. Our boys prepared well for the Mid-Kerry Blitz, which was held in Milltown. Two Laune Rangers’ teams were entered. One team won its group and the other finished as runners-up. A huge thanks to their trainers Iraneus Looney, Brian O Shea and Donal Pigott for their continued dedication.
The U-8’s trained consistently also with healthy numbers of players and helpers. The future of juvenile football in Laune Rangers looks bright if this age-group is anything to go by. Again a big thank you to Dermot O Shea, James Ferris, Eoin Ferris, John Quirke, James O Mahony, John Foley, Michael O Sullivan and all the other parents/helpers who helped during the year – always very much appreciated.
U-12 – sponsored by Jamie Clifford Painting and Decorating
Our U-12 team maintained the high standards they have set over the past few years by retaining their Mid-Kerry crown and finishing as runners-up in Div. 1 of the Co. League Phase 1 and Phase 2. It was their great rivals Austin Stacks that denied them top spot in the last round meeting in the Track. They were not, however, to be denied in the Mid-Kerry ‘A’ Championship. Having won all the rounds of the competition, Rangers met Glenbeigh/Glencar in the final in Milltown. A superior Rangers’ team came through to win back-to-back Mid-Kerry titles. The team also took part in the Tralee District competition in which they did well, qualifying for the final, but again it was Stacks that proved to be the better outfit. The efforts of John O Dwyer and Diarmuid O Sullivan are very much appreciated.
U-13 – sponsored by Flynn’s Bus Hire
Our U-13’s participated in a Tralee district knock-out competition late on in the year. Austin Stacks defeated our boys but the fact that our U-14’s had finished all competitions did not help our cause. This is an age-group that seems to be neglected with few competitions and poor organisation. Thanks to John O Dwyer and Enda Clifford for looking after the U-13’s.
U-14 – sponsored by Flynn’s Bus Hire
The U-14’s improved greatly on the previous year, culminating in the capture of the Mid-Kerry Championship. The foundation for this victory was laid in a very solid Co. League campaign, which saw Rangers qualify for the semi-final of Div. 1 against close rivals, Beaufort. In a hard-fought game, our lads lost by a whisker. However, revenge would be had in the Mid-Kerry ‘A’ final. We qualified for the final, remaining unbeaten throughout the competition. Rangers rose to the occasion and stormed to victory. Man-of-the-match, Kevin Flynn, scored 3-14 out of a total of 3-18 in an awesome display, which surely must count as a record. The Tralee District proved fruitful also, as Rangers defeated Ardfert in the semi-final but Kerins O Rahillys emerged victorious in the final. I would like to thank trainers Enda Clifford and Michael Corkery for the time and effort that they put in throughout a long but successful season.
U-15 – sponsored by Flynn’s Bus Hire
Rangers played in Div. 1 of the Co. Championship, which was again run on a knock-out basis. The campaign was a short one as we were drawn away to Austin Stacks in Rd. 1. Missing some key players, Rangers were well beaten. Appreciation to Colm Conway and Enda Clifford, who looked after the U-15’s.
U-16 – sponsored by The Fishery
The year began poorly for the U-16’s as the Mid-Kerry Championship proved to be a difficult journey. We narrowly missed out on qualification to Keel, which was a disappointment. Having been placed in Div. 1 of the Co. League, our lads played good football and just missed out on a semi-final spot. The highlight of that campaign was a 10-point defeat of a full-strength Beaufort side who would later be runners-up in that competition. The Tralee District yielded little also but the year was to end on a high with silverware to show for the efforts made. In the Mid-Kerry ‘B’, Rangers defeated Cromane/Listry in the semi-final and a tough test awaited in the final in the form of Milltown/Castlemaine. A steely resolve and determination steered Rangers to a deserved victory in very poor conditions. Captain, Liam Clifford, accepted the trophy on behalf of the team from Mid-Kerry Bord na nOg Chairman, Brendan Twiss. I would like to wish the players leaving Bord na nOg every success at minor and senior grades. I’m sure they will fit in seamlessly – as some of them have proved already. Congratulations to Sean O Riordan on winning a Munster U-16 medal with South-Kerry. South-Kerry defeated North-Kerry in the final, in which Sean played a starring role at wing-forward. A big thanks to Pat O Riordan and Donncha Curran, who helped trainer, Colm Conway, throughout the year.
Scor na nOg
Congratulations to all our Scor na nOg participants who did so well at Mid-Kerry and Co. Semi-final levels. A particular mention to our Quiz Team, who reached the county final. Under the tuition of Gearoid Clifford, team members Simon Brosnan, Liam Clifford and Morgan O Sullivan performed very well throughout. If it were not for the work of Mary Clifford, Scor na nOg in Laune Rangers would be in a very poor state indeed. Mary, we salute your continued dedication in the area.
I would like to thank all the people who refereed matches at Bord na nOg level during the year and appeal again for more ex-players to become involved in officiating at our games.
A hearty thanks to the Starlite Laundrette for their continued support of Laune Rangers.
A big thank you to John Quirke, our Bord na nOg Chairman, for his help and co-operation during the year.
I would also like to show my appreciation to the senior club for their continued support and help to Bord na nOg.
Finally, I would again like to thank all the people who helped at Bord na nOg level in anyway or form and encourage more of our members to volunteer their services to help nurture the grassroots of our club and harness the potential that is undoubtedly at our disposal.”
John Griffin delivered his 2003 Secretary’s Report to the Laune Rangers’ AGM in Scoil Mhuire on Mon. 5th Jan. 2004, as follows: “This year was a good year for the club as most levels, with teams competing in and, in many cases, winning finals. John Evans led the senior team to the County Final, which brought a great buzz to the club and the town. Seeing the blue and white flags on the bridge reminds us of the great support there is for the club.
Administration
During the year there were 12 club meetings. The average attendance at club meetings is 10. The club meeting is the forum where all activities of the club should be co-ordinated and new ideas developed. Presently, it is left to a small number to organise and run all our activities. Every member has an obligation to participate in some way in the activities of the club. It is very disappointing that, in a year where a number of officers are required to step down under the three-year rule, we find that we have no new nominations for officer positions.
Sponsorship
Killorglin Credit Union continues to be the club’s main sponsor. We thank them for their generous support of the club and we hope that both the club and Credit Union continue to benefit from the sponsorship. Thanks particularly to Agnes Foley, Manager of the Credit Union, who is always very supportive of the club. Thanks, also, to Sean Murphy, Starlite Cleaners, who continues to look after the cleaning of all the club’s jerseys and to the many others who sponsor and support the club throughout the year. We ask you all to support our sponsors.
Finance
Since the last AGM, our Finance Committee, chaired by Ger Counihan, has run 2 Race-Nights on 28th Dec. 2002 and 2003. These were very successful and bring in much needed funds for the running of the club. The committee, also, ran a very successful ‘Thousandaire’ fund-raiser in May. Our sponsor for this event was John Foley of Accelerated Drain Cleaning, who is very generous in his support of club events. The members of the Finance Committee have done great work over the years and this year was no exception. In addition to the events above, they, also, increased the standing-order lotto sales to over 400 and fund-raised to finance the County Final expenses. The business community in town was canvassed for the Co. Final and, as always, was very supportive. Thanks is due to all, particularly George Boyle of Richard Boyle & Sons, Christy Kissane and Bill Kennedy of Lee Strand. The weekly lotto continues to be our biggest source of income. Great credit is due to our CYMS regulars, who look after it every week. The Treasurers will give their report later.
Membership
There are 500 full members of the club this year. This is a significant increase on previous years and reflects the work done by the registrars. The date for renewal of membership is 1st January and subscription should be paid no later than 28th Feb. each year.
Insurance
We continue to have a small number of players and mentors who are not members of the club. This is worrying, as they are not covered by the club’s insurance. The take-up of players’ voluntary insurance is poor, considering the benefits available for players, who are injured and out of work.
Development Work
This year saw the completion of the stone wall at the front of the JP O Sullivan Park. We have, also, fitted a new PA system in the Press Box. The plastering of the inside of the boundary wall and the planting of the hedging have still to be done to complete this stage of our development. The continued leasing of Cloon has allowed us to restrict the usage of the pitch in the Track.
Planning permission was received during the year for the building of additional office space, meeting rooms, disabled toilets and indoor training facilities. It is proposed to seek Lotto funding for the project this year. If Lotto funding is received and the project proceeded with, the club will need to provide a minimum of 30% of the costs. The deadline for applications for Lotto funding is 16th Jan.
Bord na nOg
Thanks to Chairman, John Quirke, and Secretary, Colm Conway, for the tremendous amount of work they have put into our underage players during the year. They will give their report later.
Social
Michael Ahern again organised a very enjoyable night in the Manor Inn on the 8th March. The 1977 minor team was honoured on the night, with their trainer Noel O Mahony, also, receiving a presentation.
Golf Society
The Society has had three very enjoyable outings to date, playing in Killorglin, Ring of Kerry for the Captain’s prize and Beaufort for the President’s prize. The final outing is to Dooks next Saturday. Thanks to President, Aidan Gannon, Captain, Pat O Mahony, and Secretary, Pa Fleming.
Teams
Our senior team started training in December and had a great return to Div. 1 of the Credit Union Co. League with a win over Rathmore. The team performed well throughout the league and were denied a play-off place at the end of the year following a draw with Desmonds, where the standard of refereeing left a lot to be desired.
In the Mid-Kerry League, we lost to Beaufort. We reached the semi-final of the Munster League, losing to Austin Stacks. In the Co. Championship, victories over Dr. Crokes, Shannon Rangers, West-Kerry and South-Kerry saw us qualify to meet An Ghaeltacht in the final. After two epic games, we lost by the width of the post with captain, Pa O Sullivan’s, last-gasp attempt rebounding from the upright. The home fires were kept burning with victory in the Mid-Kerry final over Beaufort, having overcome Milltown/Castlemaine in the semi-final.
Our ‘B’ team played in the Mid-Kerry League in addition to our senior team. Having two teams in this league proved detrimental as we struggled to field two teams on the same day. In Div. 4 of the Co. League, the team performed brilliantly, more than holding their won and was unlucky to lose to Ballylongford in a promotion play-off. The final of the Mid-Kerry ‘B’ League was lost to Beaufort ‘B’. We achieved the unique distinction of winning two Molyneaux Cup finals during the year. The first was the 2002 final with victory over St. Mary’s and then the 2003 final where we defeated Dr. Crokes comprehensively. The O Sullivan Cup Final was lost to Cromane.
Our ‘C’ team competed in the Junior Co. League and the Barrett Cup competitions. Having reached the Barrett Cup final, we were defeated by Austin Stack’s ‘C’.
Our U-21’s went out of the Co. Championship to Austin Stacks but went on to qualify for the Shield final, which we lost to East-Kerry. In Mid-Kerry, we qualified for the final against Beaufort in early summer, but lost out when the final was eventually played on 28th Dec. We have to shoulder some of the blame for this hold-up as we couldn’t field a team for the original fixture and the Mid-Kerry Board’s insistence on fixing the game for the week before the Co. Final saw the fixture drag on into Christmas.
Our Minors had a disappointing year, performing poorly in the Co. League. We lost to Austin Stacks in the Co. Championship and to Cromane/Keel in the Mid-Kerry Championship. Our failure to field a team in the Mid-Kerry Minor League semi-final against Beaufort was a let-down for the club and led to much debate at club meetings.
Congratulations to our Hurlers, who won the Co. Junior Championship. A special thanks to Josh Whelan and Denis McDonnell for their work in running this area of the club.
Congratulations to our ladies, who won the Co. ‘B’ Junior Championship and well done to our hard-working ladies’ committee. Separate reports will be given.
Congratulations to our players who represented the county this year – John Sheehan, Liam Hassett and Mike Frank Russell at senior level, Noel Lynch and Shane Clifford at U-21 level and Jerry Coffey at minor level. The treatment of Shane Clifford by the U-21 selectors in leaving him off the team for the Munster Final, having played well in previous games, was hard to take.
Best wishes to James Coffey on his recent retirement as Treasurer of the Co. Board after many years of service to club and county.
Thanks to the members of the local media for their coverage throughout the year.
Thanks to Mary Clifford, who continues to run Scór for the club, Eoin Ferris, who updates our web-site, www.launerangers.com, and Dr. Vincent Evans for his help with the senior team.
Thanks to all our trainers and selectors, who work with all our teams throughout the year. Thanks to our referees Peter Lyons and Pat Pigott for representing the club. To my fellow officers, thank you for your help. To our outgoing officers, Co. Board Delegate, James Ferris, who has represented us well at Co. Board level. James’ persistence and dedication has earned him the respect and thanks of all members of the club. To our outgoing Development Officer, Jerry Coffey, whose vision and foresight has seen our facilities move forward to a stage we can rival Killarney and Tralee, as a suitable championship venue. To our registrars, Pat O Shea, Pat O Riordan and John Galvin, who have worked tirelessly to increase our membership to new heights this year. Thanks to Keith Bradburn, our Insurance Officer. A special thanks to our Chairman, John Clifford, for his leadership over the past seven years. The excellent facilities we have today are a testimony to his hard work and commitment to the club.
Finally, I’d like to wish all the officers, mentors, players and members every success in 2004.
Is mise,
Seán Ó Grifín.”