1992

Laune Rangers – 1992

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

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

Laune Rangers lost to Co. Club ‘B’ Championship Final but won the Mid-Kerry Championship for the ninth time.

Laune Rangers won the Mid-Kerry Minor Football Championship for the twenty-fifth time.

Laune Rangers won the Mid-Kerry U-16 Football Championship for the twenty-first time.

Laune Rangers won the Mid-Kerry U-14 football championship for the twenty second time.

Laune Rangers won the Mid-Kerry U-12 Football Championship for the 16^th time.

St. Mary’s won the South-Kerry Junior Hurling Championship.

Cork beat Kerry in the replayed Munster Minor Football Final by 3-6 to 2-7 – Mike Hassett played at midfield for Kerry.

Kerry beat Cork in the Munster U-21 Football Final but lost to Tyrone in the All-Ireland Semi-final – Billy O Sullivan played at right full-forward and Billy O Shea at left full-forward. John Doona was a substitute.

Kerry lost to Clare in the Munster Senior Football Final – Timmy Fleming played at centre half-forward and Billy O Shea at left full-forward.

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

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The AGM of the Laune Rangers Club took place in the Manor Inn, Killorglin on 30^th Dec. 1991. 66 members attended. The Chairman, Aidan Gannon, welcomed everybody and thanked the members for attending the AGM. The minutes of the previous AGM were adopted on the proposal of Jerome Conway and seconded by Michael O Mahony. The Secretary’s Report is given at the end of 1991. Club Treasurers, James Coffey and Pat Pigott, produced the following income and expenditure account for the year ending 30/11/’91:

 

 

 

 

The Chairman, in his address, thanked those people who had trained or selected teams during the year. He also wished a speedy recovery to all our injured players and said that when they would be all fit we could look forward to the future with optimism. He also said how nice it was to see the dressing-rooms being started and he hoped that they would be ready for the new season. He thanked all his fellow officers for their work and co-operation during the year and paid a special tribute to secretary, Donal Pigott, who, he said, was proving a very capable secretary. He finished his address by hoping that everyone would enjoy a sporting 1992 and he then thanked Bart Moriarty for all the work he had done for referees over the last twelve years. He wished him well in his job as Secretary of the Munster Referees.

Election of Officers:

Life President – Paddy Crowley.

Chairman        – Aidan Gannon.

V/Chairman    – Jim Galvin.

Secretary         – Donal Pigott.

Treasurers       – James Coffey & Pat Pigott.

Registrar          – Liam Shannon.

PRO                      – Bernadette Corkery.

Youth Officer  – Pat Pigott.

Delegate to Co. Board – John Clifford.

Delegates to Mid-Kerry Board – John Clifford & Donal Pigott.

Delegates to Mid-Kerry Convention – John Clifford, Jerome Conway and James Coffey.

Delegates to Co. Convention – John Clifford, Jerome Conway and Liam Shannon.

Delegates to Co. Bord na nOg Convention – Pat Pigott and Jerome Conway.

(Laune Rangers Club was awarded Club of the Year for 1991 – a trophy and £200).

Delegates to Mid-Kerry Bord na nOg Convention – James Ferris and Jerome Conway.

(That was held in Milltown).

 

Senior Selectors: John Evans, John Clifford and Patsy Joy.

‘B’ team selectors: Ger Counihan, James McInery, John Griffin and Maurice Corkery.

‘C’ team selectors: Michael O Shea, Dominic Crowley and James Coffey.

 

Motions:

1. ‘That the Laune Rangers membership fee be reviewed.’ James Coffey. After a lengthy debate it was decided that the incoming committee would review the membership fee.
2. ‘That buses, which are hired, should be paid for by the players.’ James Ferris. After another lengthy debate, it was decided that the incoming committee would try to implement the £5 membership fee for juveniles.
3. ‘That players, who win a Mid-Kerry Board competition, should be presented with their medals on the day of the game.’ The meeting agreed that it should be passed on to the Mid-Kerry Board Convention.

 

A.O.B.

1)     Anthony Shannon thought that the turnout of players at the club’s annual social was disgraceful.

2)     James Coffey said how sickened he was by the article in the Beaufort notes of the Kingdom. He said that the club took no action on the matter and that something should be done. In reply, Aidan Gannon informed the meeting that the club had written to the Mid-Kerry Board, outlining its disgust at the article. The club had also received a letter from solicitors representing the Mid-Kerry Board, which they had forwarded to the Kingdom and the club was awaiting a reply.

 

Co. Senior Football Championship

Eighteen teams entered for the Co. Senior Football Championship, Desmonds, John Mitchels, Austin Stacks, Kenmare, Gneeveguilla, Shannon Rangers, West-Kerry, Kerins O Rahillys, Mid-Kerry, South-Kerry, Dr. Crokes, St. Kieran’s, St. Brendan’s, Beale, Killarney, East-Kerry, Feale Rangers and Laune Rangers.

 

Rd. 1 on Sun. 5^th July at 3.30pm in Moyvane: Feale Rangers 1-7; Laune Rangers 0-6.

That was a bitter disappointment for Laune Rangers, as joint favourites for the championship, against opposition, that had to play without the services of Eamonn Breen and Jerome Stack. The Rangers’ lads seemed stuck to the ground. In fairness, the backs could not be faulted but from midfield up they were bereft of ideas and lacked cutting. Paul Griffin missed two open goals and he had another great shot saved. Rangers also missed two easy frees early on. Those misses gave heart to the opposition, who eventually realised that they could win and did.

Seamus O Neill gave the following report in the Kerryman: ‘This clash of Feale Rangers and Laune Rangers in the AIB County Senior Championship at Moyvane on Sunday was meant to be one of the top games in the first round of the competition and, as the teams took the field in glorious conditions, the large crowd eagerly awaited the expected thrills and excitement. But what a surprise was in store for them. This was one of the most boring and free-ridden games imaginable for a county championship and that in spite of the presence of four members of the Kerry senior panel.

Laune Rangers had Timmy Fleming, Billy O’Shea and Billy O’Sullivan on duty. Stephen Stack lined out for Feale Rangers who had to start without their other Kerry Player, Eamonn Breen – out through injury. The standard of football was alarmingly low. There were very few passages of open football and far too much dragging and pulling by both sides.  The performance of referee Mike O’Donoghue didn’t help matters either, as he blew up every infringement and very often brought play back when a player in possession had got clear.

Laune Rangers were the more impressive side in the opening half and took the lead when Paul Griffin kicked a good point in the fourth minute. From the kick-out, Laune Rangers launched another attack and a long ball from Joe Shannon put Paul Griffin clear but, with only goalkeeper Pat Carmody to beat, he shot wide. Feale Rangers came into the game but had bad wides from John O’Connell, Tom Walsh, Brendan Kiely and Mike Kennelly.

‘Tom Walsh was constantly coming through from his half-back position but his finish left much to be desired. Pat McKenna put Laune Rangers two points ahead when he collected a ball dropped by John Stack and kicked a point. A foul on Billy O’Sullivan brought Laune Rangers’ third point from Timmy Fleming in the 15^th minute and Feale Rangers had yet to score.

Fittingly, the North Kerry side’s first point came from Tom O’Connell who was about their only forward to impress on the day. It came in the 16^th minute and Mike Kennelly (Listowel) soon added a second point from a free. In the 22^nd minute, Laune Rangers tore the opposing defence to shreds with a good passing movement which finished with Pat McKenna putting Paul Griffin clean through but, again, with only the goalkeeper to beat Griffin blazed the ball across the face of the goal and wide.

Timmy Fleming kicked another Laune Rangers point from a free after wing back Shane O’Sullivan had been fouled and, in the closing minutes of the first half, a point each by Tom O’Connell (free) and Mike Kennelly from a “45”, had the sides level (0-4 each) at the break. Laune Rangers replaced Patie Casey with Michael O’Reilly at halftime and resumed with Pat McKenna at full-forward. The start of the second half was held up for a short time while referee O’Donoghue had to get a replacement whistle.

The standard of play on the resumption was terrible. For 15 minutes both sides were guilty of some desperate scoring attempts and the dragging and pulling had become even worse than in the first half. The first score in the half came after 16 minutes – a point from a free by Feale Rangers’ Garry Stack to put the North Kerry men in front for the first time. Laune Rangers raised their game after this and seemed to have a goal on, but John Walsh saved on the line after good work by Timmy Fleming and Billy O’Shea.

Almost immediately, Pat Carmody came to the rescue for Feale Rangers with a marvellous save from Paul Griffin. Feale Rangers then launched an attack and when full-forward Donal Kearney sent the ball across the goalmouth, corner-forward Eddie Bowler punched it to the net for the only goal of the game. After this the standard of play was raised greatly. Billy O’Shea kicked a point for Laune Rangers, but Tom O Connell had a similar score for Feale to restore their four-point lead.

Mike Kennelly put the North Kerry side further ahead with a point from a free in the 56^th minute and Feale Rangers were well in control at this stage. Another attack left substitute Richard Fitzmaurice clear but, with only the goalkeeper to beat, he lost control and Laune Rangers worked the ball upfield for Billy O’Sullivan to point from a free. This was the last score of the game and while Feale Rangers just about deserved to go through to the next round, they will have to improve greatly, especially in attack.

Only two of their seven points came from play. Most prominent for Feale Rangers were Tom Walsh, John Walsh, Seán Moriarty, Stephen Stack (second half), Tom O’Connell, Donal Kearney and goalkeeper Pat Carmody. Best for Laune Rangers were Shane O’Sullivan, Tommy Byrne, Dan Cahill, Joe Shannon, Timmy Fleming, Pat McKenna and Paul Griffin. Much was expected from Kerry players Billy O’Shea and Billy O’Sullivan, but they failed to rise to the occasion and this took much of the sting from the Laune Rangers’ attack.’

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Danny Cahill, Paudie Sheahan, Mark O Connor, Pa Murphy, Tommy Byrne, Shane O Sullivan, Joe Shannon, Timmy Fleming (capt.) 0-2, frees, Billy O Shea (0-1), Pierce Prendiville, Pat McKenna (0-2), Paul Griffin, Patie Casey, Billy O Sullivan (0-1). Subs: Michael O Reilly for P. Casey; John Doona, James O Shea, Adrian Hassett, Michael Griffin, Mark O Sullivan, Owen Joy, Michael Hassett, Derry O Sullivan, Paudie Russell.

Feale Rangers: Pat Carmody (Emmett’s), Sean Moriarty (do.), John Stack (Moyvane), John Walsh (St. Senan’s), Tom Walsh (Emmett’s), Stephen Stack (do.) capt., John O Connell (Tarbert), Garry Stack (Emmett’s) 0-1, Mike Kennelly (Moyvane), Tom O Connell (St. Senan’s) 0-3, Mike Kennelly (Emmett’s) 0-3, 2 frees and one 45, Brendan O Brien (Duagh), Brendan Kiely (Tarbert), Donal Kearney (Moyvane), Eddie Bowler (Duagh) 1-0. Subs: Richard Fitzmaurice (St. Senan’s) for B. O Brien.

Referee: Michael O Donoghue (Glenflesk).

 

Mid-Kerry, captained by Sean Burke, beat St. Brendan’s in the final by 3-9 to 1-10. Brian O Sullivan, former Laune Rangers player, was awarded man-of-the-match.

 

Co. Club Championship

 

Rd. 1 on Sun. 27^th Sept. at 1.15pm at Strand Road: Desmonds 2-8; Laune Rangers 0-8.

At that time, Laune Rangers seemed to be going nowhere quickly! Paudie Sheahan and Mark O Connor were beaten but the other backs played well. John Doona tried hard. Timmy Fleming took a long time to settle. The forwards had no idea what the next person was doing. There was not any plan of campaign, any heart nor any teamwork. Rangers would have to have a long look at their set-up.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Mark O Connor, Paudie Sheahan, Danny Cahill, Michael Hassett, Tommy Byrne, Shane O Sullivan, John Doona, Timmy Fleming (capt.), Joe Shannon, Pierce Prendiville, James O Shea, Pat McKenna, Billy O Shea, Billy O Sullivan. Subs: Owen Joy for J. O Shea; Patie Casey, Jason Griffin.

Ref: Albert O Sullivan (K. O Rahilly’s).

 

Co. Senior League Div. 1

 

Rd. 1 on Sun. 15^th March at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 1-12; Rathmore 1-7.

It took Laune Rangers some time to settle down – the Rathmore players were very fit and enthusiastic. Paul Griffin played great football. Pierce Prendiville was his usual mighty self. Adrian Hassett was Laune Rangers’ man-of-the-match. Mark O Connor was very good. As the game progressed, the forwards put their game together well and Rangers ran out convincing winners.

Rangers played against the wind in the first half and led by 1-4 to 1-3 at halftime, thanks to a goal from the penalty spot by Billy O Sullivan after he himself had been fouled. In the second half, Rangers added a number of fine points and were always in control, with Paul Griffin playing well in attack.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Adrian Hassett, Paudie Sheahan, Danny Cahill, Mark O Connor, Tommy Byrne, Shane O Sullivan, Pa Murphy, Pierce Prendiville, Michael Griffin, Pat McKenna (0-2), Billy O Shea (0-1), Paul Griffin (0-3), Patie Casey (0-2), Billy O Sullivan (1-2). Subs: Timmy Corkery (0-2) for P. Murphy; Owen Joy, John Doona, Mark O Sullivan.

Missing: Timmy Fleming (playing with Munster in Railway Cup Final), Joe Shannon (suspended), James O Shea (operation on his shoulder – he was indisposed until June).

Ref: Maurice O Sullivan (Ballyheigue).

 

Rd. 2 on Sun. 29^th March at Dingle: Dingle 0-5; Laune Rangers 1-13.

Laune Rangers played copybook football in the first half, after which they led by 1-8 to 0-1. The forwards foraged and combined very, very well. The backs were razor sharp. Rangers seemed to relax in the second half and kicked some inglorious wides. Nevertheless, they played much better than in the corresponding game the previous year.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Danny Cahill, Paudie Sheahan, Mark O Connor, Pa Murphy, Tommy Byrne, Shane O Sullivan, Pierce Prendiville (0-1), Joe Shannon, Timmy Corkery (0-2), Pat McKenna, Michael O Reilly (0-3, frees), Paul Griffin (0-4), Patie Casey (0-1), Owen Joy (1-1). Subs: Adrian Hassett for T. Byrne (inj.); Mike Griffin for P. Griffin; Kevin Jones (0-1) for O. Joy.

Missing – Timmy Fleming, Billy O Sullivan and Billy O Shea (all on duty with Kerry).

Ref: John Evans (Laune Rangers) – the appointed referee failed to show. In fairness to him, he rang the Dingle Garda Station to say that his car had broken down.

 

Rd. 3 on Sun. 12^th April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 4-13; Dr. Crokes 0-7.

That was a super performance against the All-Ireland Club Champions. Admittedly they were short four of that team. From the word go Laune Rangers were on top, particularly at mid-field and led by 2-3 to 0-3 at halftime. Timmy Fleming got the first goal when he finished Patie Casey’s punched cross to the net and Joe Shannon got the second, having received from Billy O Shea, he drove a blockbuster to the net. Peter Lyons played well. Danny Cahill was great. Paudie Sheahan was sound. Mark O Connor kept Pat O Shea to 1 point. Pa Murphy was great. Tommy Byrne had a poor first half but he improved. Shane O Sullivan never gave an inch. Joe Shannon and Pierce Prendiville were great. Billy O Shea was electric. Timmy Fleming worked very hard. Pat McKenna played well. Paul Griffin was great. Patie Casey was improving with every game and he was then playing his best football. Billy O Sullivan was his clinical self. Adrian Hassett played adequately when he came on. Billy O Sullivan’s goal came from the penalty spot. In the second half, Rangers played exhibition stuff as Crokes struggled with their fitness.

The Killorglin Notes in The Kerryman carried this report: ‘In the Division 1 clash with Dr. Crokes, the Laune Rangers side gave a fine display to beat the County and All-Ireland Champions by 4-13 to 0-7, but to be fair to the Killarney side, they didn’t seem to take the game too seriously. The All-Ireland victory celebrations plus the after-effects from Saturday’s wedding of Seanie O Shea, were very much in evidence. They were also short a few of the regular side. Dr. Crokes were given a good reception from the attendance when emerging from the dressing-rooms prior to the game. We will, no doubt, see a much more determined Dr. Crokes from now on.’

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Danny Cahill, Paudie Sheahan, Mark O Connor, Pa Murphy, Tommy Byrne, Shane O Sullivan, Joe Shannon (1-0), Pierce Prendiville, Billy O Shea (0-1), Timmy Fleming (1-0) capt., Pat McKenna (0-3), Paul Griffin (1-2), Patie Casey (0-2), Billy O Sullivan (1-4). Subs: Adrian Hassett (0-1) for P. Prendiville (inj.).

Dr. Crokes: Denis Cronin, Sean Clarke, Liam Hartnett, John Clifford, John Kelly, John Galvin, Colm O Shea, Noel O Leary, Connie Murphy (0-2), Connie O Doherty, Vince Casey, Ger O Shea (0-3, frees), Pat O Shea (0-1), Mike Buckley, Martin Byrnes (0-1, free). Subs: Kevin Buckley for J. Kelly; Maurice O Donoghue for N. O Leary (inj.).

Ref: Kieran Breen (Beaufort) – good.

Rd. 4 on Sat. 18^th April at Milltown: Milltown/Castlemaine 0-8; Laune Rangers 2-7.

Laune Rangers played quite well in the first half, while aided by a slight breeze. They were on top at midfield and their forwards combined very well to score two great goals per Paul Griffin and Timmy Fleming. When Milltown did attack, the fullback line was suspect and allowed the opposition some easy scores. However, the backs tightened up in the second half but the Rangers faded at midfield and their forwards did not play with the same zest. Nevertheless, they did enough to win and remain top of the table, while Milltown were still pointless after four games.

The Killorglin Notes in the Kerryman went as follows: ‘Laune Rangers added two further points to their County League total on Saturday evening against Milltown to show the way on top of the Div. 1 table. Rangers started in whirlwind fashion and had two goals from T. Fleming and P. Griffin and a point from B. O Sullivan and looked like a team that were going to overrun Milltown. However, the Milltown backs settled down and tightened up and it made for a tough, uncompromising affair for the remaining 40 minutes in which we saw tackles, which are not in the rulebook. However, tough and all as it was, the Rangers got on with the job and this young side can certainly mix it well. T. Byrne, Shannon, Fleming and O Sullivan are strong, solid footballers and these paved the way for hard fought scores. Again the forwards played as a unit and seemed to be getting the rewards for their hard work. With the calibre of the subs on the line, E. Joy, T. Corkery, M. O Reilly, M. O Sullivan, D. O Sullivan, all players are looking over their shoulders. The final score does not reflect the true scoring opportunities as there were glaring misses on both sides, which, allied to the bad underfoot conditions, was frustrating for everybody.’

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Mark O Connor, Paudie Sheahan, Danny Cahill, Pa Murphy, Tommy Byrne, Shane O Sullivan, Joe Shannon, Adrian Hassett, Billy O Shea, Timmy Fleming (1-0), Patie Casey, Paul Griffin (1-2), Pat McKenna (0-2), Billy O Sullivan (0-3). Subs: Mark O Sullivan for P. Murphy; Timy Corkery for D. Cahill; Michael O Reilly for P. Casey; Eoin Joy, Derry O Sullivan. Missing – Pierce Prendiville (injured).

Milltown/Castlemaine: Jim O Connor, Liam Cronin, Brian Kerins, Liam Spring, Sean Costelloe, Sean Burke, Ger Teahan, Linus Burke, Mike Dennehy, Martin Burke, Willie Maher (0-3), Liam Kelliher, Sean Counhian (0-1), Joe Daly (0-1), Joe McAuliffe (0-3). Subs: Alan Kerins for S. Counihan; Gene Daly for M. Burke.

Referee: Richie Williams (Dingle).

 

Rd. 5 on Sat. 16^th May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 0-10; Kerins O Rahilly’s 0-10.

Leading by 0-6 to 0-0 after fifteen minutes, Rangers looked set for a facile win but a spirited O Rahillys’ rally saw them notch four points on the trot to leave the halftime score at 0-6 to 0-4. The second half was seven minutes old before the home side registered its first score but they looked good when they led by 0-9 to 0-4 after twelve minutes play. However, the Tralee side again hit back and,with a minute remaining, the sides were level. Laune Rangers, thanks to a cool effort from a long-range free by Michael O Reilly, went ahead but O Rahillys broke away and forced a free from which they equalised. Laune Rangers really did not play well. Were it not for Paudie Sheahan, Joe Shannon and Pierce Prendiville (the veterans of the team), they would have been destroyed.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Danny Cahill, Paudie Sheahan, Adrian Hassett, Pa Murphy (0-1), Tommy Byrne, Mark O Connor (0-1), Joe Shannon (0-1), Pierce Prendiville, Michael Griffin, Pat McKenna (0-2), Michael O Reilly (0-3, 2 frees), Paul Griffin (0-1), Patie Casey (0-1), Derry O Sullivan. Subs: John Doona for D. O Sullivan; Jason Griffin, Mark O Sullivan. Rangers were missing their three Co. Senior players, Timmy Fleming, Billy O Shea and Billy O Sullivan, amongst others.

K. O Rahilly’s: Declan Sweeney, Norman Foley, Sean Quirke, Mick O Halloran, Simon McCarthy, Ken Savage, Junior Cronin, Cathal Sheehy, Maurice O Carroll (0-2), Tom Kennedy (0-2), Rory Fahy (0-4, 2 frees), Oliver Moloy, Martin Hartnett (0-1, free), Noel O Sullivan, Ricky Cullen (0-1). Sub: Mick Griffin for Quirke.

 

Rd. 6 on Sat. 6^th Jun. at Ballybunion: Beale 0-6; Laune Rangers 1-18.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Adrian Hassett, Paudie Sheahan, Danny Cahill, Mark O Connor, Tommy Byrne, Shane O Sullivan, Joe Shannon, Pierce Prendiville, Pat McKenna, Timmy Fleming (0-7), Michael O Reilly, Paul Griffin (0-5), Patie Casey, Billy O Sullivan (1-4). Subs: Mark O Sullivan for S. O Sullivan; John Doona for J. Shannon, Pa Murphy. Billy O Shea had been injured in the U-21 Munster Championship against Limerick on the previous evening.

 

Rd. 7 on Sat. 18^th July at Gneeveguilla: Gneeveguilla 1-6; Laune Rangers 2-4.

That was a poor performance by the Rangers forwards. They owned the ball, virtually, but they could not score consistently. Tommy Byrne scored the first goal with a spectacular lob. Joe Shannon got the winning goal with two minutes left. The backs were good. John Doona played well.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Danny Cahill, Paudie Sheahan, Mark O Connor, Pa Murphy, Tommy Byrne (1-0), Shane O Sullivan, Joe Shannon (1-0), John Doona (0-1), James O Shea, Pierce Prendiville, Patie Casey, Paul Griffin, Michael O Reilly (0-1), Pat McKenna (0-2). Subs: Michael Griffin for P. Casey, Owen Joy for J. O Shea.

Ref: Tom McCarthy (Desmonds).

 

Rd. 8 on Sat. 29^th Aug. at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 1-13; Annascaul 2-6.

That was a workmanlike performance by Laune Rangers, which put them on top of the league by one point from Legion with three games left to play. All the defence excelled except Peter Lyons, who had been at a wedding. Rangers held sway at midfield. John Doona got injured and Joe Shannon came out to midfield and Rangers continued to dominate. All the forwards excelled except Billy O Sullivan, who was off form and should have been replaced.

Mark Kilden, in Kerry’s Eye, reported as follows: ‘Laune Rangers took a giant step nearer winning the County league with a splendid team victory over holders Annascaul at a wet JP. O Sullivan Park, Killorglin on Saturday night. This was a very good tough honest game of football by two teams who, on the night, would win against any of the county finalists.

Every ball was eagerly contested right up to the final whistle and the big attendance for a league game got better value than what was in store in Tralee the previous weekend. This defeat almost relinquishes Annascaul’s hold on the title. The new champions should emerge from next weekend’s top of the table clash between Rangers and Legion, both setting the pace all season.

The Killorglin men fashioned victory with a whirlwind start, having 1-4 on the scoreboard, before Weeshie Lynch, with a brilliant goal, got the loser’s first score at the end of the first quarter. At that stage, John Evans’ charges were playing delightful football with the attack, marshalled by Pierce Prendiville and Joe Shannon, stringing together some lovely movements. Paul Griffin rifled home the opening goal, with the Annascaul defence spreadeagled. Griffin tapped the ball into the empty net after drawing out keeper Kevin O Shea. Pat McKenna, Billy O Sullivan and Billy O Shea were mounting severe pressure on the Annascaul defence. The losers struggled at midfield without Pat McKenna. Rangers’ John Doona was shaping up very well in this sector until retiring injured at halftime.

After Weeshie Lynch’s goal, Annascaul settled down. Geni Farrell scored a point and with the low ball being delivered, he had Paudie Sheahan in trouble. The winners struck back with a succession of points – Billy O Sullivan (2f), Pierce Prendiville and McKenna on target to lead 1-8 to 1-2 by the 25^th minute of the half. Annascaul took up the challenge to get right back into contention before the break. Geni Farrell got a point back. The same player lobbed in a centre, which appeared to be well covered by Peter Lyons and Shane O Sullivan. However, both let the ball break on the ground, where Bingo O Driscoll accepted the gift to boot home a soft goal. Tommy Doyle soloed in from the kick-out to split the uprights. Rangers, after being seven in front, just lead by one at halftime, 1-8 to 2-4.

With the field cutting up and rain falling heavily in the second half, it was still there to be won. John Doona failed to re-appear for the winners. Dicey Reilly went to No. 14, releasing Joe Shannon to midfield. The first scores of the half fell to Billy O Sullivan, with two frees. Doyle kept the visitors in touch from a similar situation. Griffin and Sean Driscoll swopped points, 1-11 to 2-6 with eight minutes remaining. Annascaul, up front, could never breach the winners’ backs and failed to score again, despite tremendous effort at times in the closing stages. Such was the losers’ all-out commitment to saving the game that it looked like boiling over in the heat of battle. They lost Tome Ashe, injured. Billy O Sullivan and Pat McKenna points finally killed off the westerner’s Challenge, 1-13 to 2-6 at the final whistle. Just about sums up what an exciting brand of football these two top club sides can produce.

Pa Murphy, Danny Cahill, Michael Hassett and Shane O Sullivan shone in defence for Rangers, John Doona, until injured, Timmy Fleming and Joe Shannon in the second half at midfield. Pierce Prendiville, Billy O Shea, Pat McKenna and Paul Griffin were best in attack. Annascaul’s best were Kevin O Shea (Gls.), Brian Farrell, Johnny Driscoll in defence, Mark Moynihan at midfield, Bingo Driscoll, Weeshie Lynch, Geni Farrell and Paul O Driscoll tried hardest without much success in attack.’

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Danny Cahill, Paudie Sheahan, Pa Murphy, Michael Hassett, Tommy Byrne, Shane O Sullivan, Timmy Fleming, John Doona, Paul Griffin (1-1), Pierce Prendiville (0-2), Pat McKenna (0-4), Billy O Shea, Joe Shannon (0-1), Billy O Sullivan (0-5, 4 frees). Subs: Michael O Reilly for J. Doona (inj.), Owen Joy, James O Shea, Mark O Sullivan.

Annascaul: Kevin O Shea, Pat Flahive, Tom Ashe, Brian Farrell, Johnny O Driscoll, Vincent Knightley, Jerry Lyne, David Farrell, Mark Moynihan, Bingo O Driscoll (1-0), Tommy Doyle (0-2, 1 pen.), Weeshie Lynch (1-1, 1 free), Paul O Driscoll, Genie Farrell (0-2), Sean O Driscoll (0-1). Subs: Conor Slattery for J. Lyne; Dan Sheehy for T. Ashe (inj.)

Referee – Maurice O Sullivan (Ballyheigue) – handled a tough game very well.

 

Rd. 9 on Sun. 6^th Sept. at Direen: Legion 0-9; Laune Rangers 0-9.

Laune Rangers played poorly with the aid of the strong breeze in the first half and they played well in the second half. They had a litany of problems before the game. The turnout for training by the inter-county players was dismal, Pat McKenna was in bed all the week with the flu, Paul Griffin had a chest infection, (He had been seen socialising on the night prior to the game), Tommy Byrne had a toothache (He had been at a wedding on Saturday), Billy O Sullivan had an ankle injury, John Doona had a hip injury and did not want to play, Pierce Prendiville and Joe Shannon had been at a wedding on Saturday and both our corner forwards had been seen socialising early on Sunday morning. Little wonder then that the performance suffered in that, the most important match in the league thus far. As a result of that game, Legion were just a point behind Rangers with two games left to play. John Evans, the trainer, tore into the team at halftime and afterwards!

Mark Kilden, in Kerry’s Eye, reported on the game as follows: ‘A point by star midfielder Timmy Fleming gave Laune Rangers a vital draw in injury time in their top of the table clash in Direen on Sunday with the local Legion. The final score, 0-9 each, gives a true reflection on the closeness of the exchanges. This was a most entertaining and exciting game of football, played in sporting fashion in the very testing underfoot conditions by two superbly fit teams.

Heavy rain, which fell overnight and throughout the morning but gladly eased off before the start, made it difficult for the players to hold their footing. Legion shaped up for long stages as likely winners. Their short passing game and some tremendous defensive play had Rangers in trouble. The locals led 0-9 to 0-6 thirteen minutes into the second half.

Shrewd tactical switches by Rangers backroom team of John Evans, Patsy Joy, John Clifford, which saw the introduction of James O Shea, Eoin Joy and the siting of Joe Shannon to half-forward with Tommy Byrne moving to attack, paid handsome dividends. Legion failed to raise another flag, while Rangers, with Timmy Fleming winning at midfield, fought back to level and gain the important league point. The home side created a fine chance of wrapping the game up four minutes from the end when Donal Culloty found the unmarked Colman O Shea in front of goal with Peter Lyons at his mercy. Lyons advanced smartly to bring off a fine body save.

A draw was the best result as both teams could have snatched victory in the final quarter. Legion led 0-6 to 0-4 at the short whistle after playing into the breeze. Kevin Murphy, Pat Adams, Denis O Mahony, David O Shea, Dermot Reen and Willie O Sullivan in defence were brilliant in this period. Goalkeeper Peter O Leary was a steadying influence. The roving John Culloty was playing the third midfielder, while the Culloty brothers and Diarmuid O Donoghue were combining sharply. Laune Ramgers, with Danny Cahill, Mike Hassett and Shane O Sullivan towering in defence, found their forwards with the exception of Paul Griffin, Billy O Shea and Joe Shannon having to cope with Legion’s strong defence. Two Diarmuid O Donoghue points and another lovely score by John Culloty left Legion nicely ahead 0-9 to 0-6. They could not manage another score in the remainder of the hour. Billy O Shea, Billy O Sullivan (free) and Fleming’s late equaliser levelled matters.’

Both teams had two games each to play. The league was still to be won.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Danny Cahill, Paudie Sheahan, Pa Murphy, Michael Hassett, Tommy Byrne, Shane O Sullivan, Timmy Fleming (0-1), John Doona, Paul Griffin, Pierce Prendiville (0-1), Pat McKenna, Billy O Shea (0-2), Joe Shannon (0-1), Billy O Sullivan (0-4, frees). Subs: Mark O Connor for P. Murphy; Owen Joy for J. Doona; James O Shea for P. McKenna; Jason Griffin.

Legion: Peter O Leary, Kevin Murphy, Pat Adams, Denis O Mahony, David O Shea, Dermot Reen, Willie O Sullivan, John Keane, John Bowler, Diarmuid O Donoghue ()-2), Donal Culloty ()-2, 1 free)), Cathal O Grady (0-2, frees), John Culloty (0-2), Donal O Donoghue, Seanie Culloty (0-1). Subs: Colman O Shea for C. O Grady.

Referee: Tom McCarthy (Castleisland).

 

Rd. 10 on Sun. 11^th Oct. at J.P. O Sullivan Park: Laune Rangers 0-14; Desmonds 2-5.

The Killorglin notes in the Kerryman read as follows: ‘This year’s county league Division 1 is certainly providing a nail-biting finish. Laune Rangers must beat Austin Stack’s in the final game if they are to regain the title they last held in 1989. They lead Legion by a single point and the Killarney side play Annascaul in their final game.

Laune Rangers were coasting against Desmonds on Sunday leading by a clear nine points with twenty minutes remaining in their league battle at the J.P. O Sullivan Park, but the Castleisland boys struck for two unexpected goals and it gave the Rangers all they could do to hold out for a 0-14 to 2-5 win.

A feature of the game was the fine points scored from play by Laune Rangers and a great midfield display by the fast improving John Doona. James O Shea made a welcome return to the side for league football and he played his heart out in this vital win.’

Mark Kilden, in Kerry’s Eye, reported as follows: ‘Laune Rangers, leading by twelve points to two, five minutes into the second half, had to withhold tremendous Desmonds pressure in the closing minutes before gaining the two vital league points on the final score 0-14 to 2-5.

In the opening half it was all Laune Rangers as they treated the good sized home following to some lovely free flowing movements to which Desmonds had no answer. Conditions were near perfect as Rangers moved into a five points to two lead after twenty minutes play. James O Shea, Billy O Shea and the very impressive Pat McKenna were in sparkling form. Desmonds scored only two first half points despite Dermot Hannifin having the better of matters at midfield. McKenna had four of the ten, while Donal Murphy got a good point from play and Martin Downey (free) accounted for Desmonds’ scores  in the opening period.

As the winners retired 0-10 to 0-2 in an interval lead, Desmonds brought in Christy Kearney at the start of the second half to the 40 yards and switched around some players. Kearney’s presence soon rubbed off on his team-mates after Billy O Shea and Shane O Sullivan increased the winners’ lead. For the remaining 25 minutes the locals only managed two points, while Desmonds struck for two smashing goals to haul themselves off the floor. The brilliant Willie Dom O Connor, at left half-back, was a key figure. His fine positional play and precision distribution must have impressed the county selector in attendance, Pat O Shea. At times during the hour the play became very scrappy with some over-robust tackling and off the ball incidents let go unnoticed by referee, Richie Williams, who received little help from the linesmen and umpires as to what went on behind his back.

As the game entered the final quarter and Desmonds denied a certain penalty, a free for all broke out in the Rangers’ goalmouth. No one was booked. The first of Desmonds’ goals came in the 17^th minute when Donal Murphy shot home a low ground shot from outside the box. The second came seven minutes from the end when Tommy Roche fisted home. Downey, from a free, made the score 0-14 to 2-5. The final five minutes were packed with action as Desmonds almost snatched a draw. Charlie Nelligan was seen at his brilliant best to dive across the goals to keep out Joe Shannon’s close-in goal-bound shot.

Rangers deserved their victory, which sees them one point ahead of Legion in the table as they face Stacks in Tralee in the final round. Danny Cahill, Paudie Sheahan, Tommy Byrne, Shane O Sullivan and the fast improving Michael Hassett and John Doona shone. Pat McKenna was best in attack, with Pierce Prendiville Griffin, O Shea’s also in form. Desmonds’ best were Nelligan in the net, Tom Horan, Shane Curtin, Willie Dom O Connor, Dermot Hannifin, Tommy O Sullivan, John Brennan, Donal Murphy, Downey and sub, Kearney.’

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Mark O Connor, Paudie Sheahan, Danny Cahill, Michael Hassett, Tommy Byrne, Shane O Sullivan (0-1), Joe Shannon, John Doona, James O Shea (0-2), Pierce Prendiville, Pat McKenna (0-4), Paul Griffin (0-1), Timmy Fleming (0-3, 1 free & a 45), Billy O Shea (0-3). Subs: Billy O Sullivan for J. O Shea; Michael O Reilly.

Desmonds: Charlie Nelligan, Kieran O Sullivan, Tom Horan, Kevin McMahon, Denis Browne, Shane Curtin, Willie Dom O Connor, Dermot Hannifin, John Brennan, Brian McMahon, Tom Brosnan, Tommy O Sullivan, Martin Downey (0-3, 2 frees), Tom Roche (1-0), Donal Murphy (1-1). Subs: Christy Kearney (0-1, free); John Enright.

Referee: Richie Williams (Dingle).’

 

Rd. 11 on Sat. 24^th Oct. in Connolly Park: Austin Stacks 1-4; Laune Rangers 1-9.

That victory gave Laune Rangers the Div. 1 title for the fourth time. As there was no final, the top team in the league won the title. Eamonn Horan reported in the Kerryman as follows: ‘Taking over midway through the first half, Laune Rangers strode to the easiest of victories over Austin Stacks at Connolly Park to capture the Lee Strand County League (Div. 1) title for the fourth time in the club’s history.

The simple fact of the matter is that as a showpiece of Kerry football this game fell flat on its face. This was due primarily to the sub standard performance turned in by Stacks. The Tralee side opened in brisk fashion and, leading by 0-3 to 0-1 after 12 minutes, looked as if they were about to turn on the style and thwart the opposition’s title hopes in the process. But, as events transpired, Stacks only flattered to deceive. They didn’t have another score for fully 45 minutes and that is a terrible indictment of any team.

As Stacks lost the run of the game, so did Laune Rangers take command of matters and, gaining in momentum with every kick of the ball, they quickly asserted their superiority and points by Timmy Fleming (free) and Paul Griffin saw them draw level with their rivals after 22 minutes and when classy Pat McKenna kicked a peach of a point four minutes later the Laune men held a one-point lead at halftime (0-4 to 0-3).

A sharp pep talk from trainer, John Evans, during the interval brought the desired response from Rangers. With John Doona and Joe Shannon controlling matters at midfield, the winners’ forwards exerted tremendous pressure on the Stack’s defence and forced the latter into countless errors. Points by Fleming (two), Doona, McKenna and Fleming again saw Rangers open up a lead of 0-9 to 0-3 after 15 minutes of the second half. As a contest the game was well and truly over by then, such was the overall superiority being exerted by the visitors.

One felt that Rangers could have won by a lot more if they wanted to but then the conditions didn’t exactly suit patterned play. The ground was wet and soggy and players on both sides found it difficult to control the slippery ball. When trailing by 0-7 to 0-3, Stacks tried briefly to rally but three successive raids saw John Barry, Donal McEvoy and Martin McKivergan kick wides in turn.

Stacks simply lost their way badly in this game and never played with the kind of flair and courage so often hallmarks of the team. And there was no injection of new reinforcements from the sideline to try and stem the rot. Indeed, by the time Stack’s mentors decided to ring the changes there were only three minutes left in the game. And, remarkably, they introduced three substitutes simultaneously.

Twenty-one minutes into the second half Laune Rangers’ Paul Griffin plied Pat McKenna with a smashing pass and the left half-forward duly picked his spot and crashed home a great goal, custodian Michael Hussey getting a despairing hand to it on the way. Thereafter, Rangers were only coasting and a point by McKivergan and a goal by Liam Kerins in the dying minutes of the game were of little more than token value to the losers who were out of their depth on the day.

If Legion had been hoping for Stacks to do them a favour on the day they were sadly mistaken for rarely has the Tralee side performed with such inertia and lack of commitment. Obviously, the fact that there was nothing to be gained at the end of the day for them had its inevitable effect on the team as a whole. With scarcely a hundred people in attendance, what should have been a great occasion was a very pedestrian and boring affair. The County Board should in future ensure that the biggest game in the whole competition is given more status and occasion than we witnessed at Connolly Park on Saturday. For one thing, it proved that when supporters have a Saturday afternoon option of choosing between watching sport on TV or sojourning to the local betting office rather than attending a big football match, the latter is a poor third choice for most of them.

Outstanding for Laune Rangers were Timmy Fleming, Pat McKenna, Pierce Prendiville, Paul Griffin and Billy O Shea in attack, John Doona at midfield and Tommy Byrne, Shane O Sullivan and Adrian Hassett in defence. Best in a lack-lustre Stacks’ side were Pat Slattery, Martin McKivergan, Michael Clifford, Donal McEvoy, John Barry and Liam Kerins.’

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Adrian Hasset, Paudie Sheahan, Mark O Connor, Michael Hassett, Tommy Byrne, Shane O Sullivan, Joe Shannon, John Doona (0-1), Pat McKenna (1-2), Pierce Prendiville (0-1), James O Shea, Paul Griffin (0-1), Timmy Fleming (0-4, 3 frees), Billy O Shea. Subs: Eoin Joy for P. Griffin; Michael O Reilly for P. McKenna; Patie Casey for B. O Shea; Jason Griffin, Danny Cahill, Mark O Sullivan.

Austin Stacks: Michael Hussey, Malachy Nagle, Eamonn O Brien, Pat Slattery, Denis Sayers, Martin McKivergan (0-1, free), Kieran Browne, Liam Kerins (1-0), Jerry Fitzmaurice, Pa Laide, John Barry (0-1), Darren Ahern, Eoin Moynihan (0-1), Michael (Chips) Clifford (0-1), Donal McEvoy. Subs: Seamus Smith for P. Laide; Liam O Carroll for D. McEvoy; Tommy Ryan for K. Browne.

Referee: Tom McCarthy (Castleisland).

Co. Club ‘B’ Football Championship (Molyneaux Cup)

 

Rd. 1 on Fri. 31^st July at 7.30pm in Listowel: Emmett’s B 0-7; Laune Rangers B 1-8.

Liam Foley played in goals. Anthony O Sullivan, William Joy and Eoin Corkery formed the fullback line. Martin Clifford and Mark O Sullivan were two of the halfback line, while Tom Johnston and Robert Evans played at midfield.

 

Quarter-Final on Tues. 18^th August at Killorglin: Laune Rangers B 2-9; Austin Stacks 1-3.

Owen Joy and John O’Dwyer got the goals. The backs were excellent. Mid-field dominated – John Doona and Tom Johnston got 0-2 each. John O’Dwyer led the attack well.

Laune Rangers: Liam Foley, Anthony O’Sullivan, Adrian Hassett, William Joy, John F. O’Brien, Martin Clifford, Mark O’Sullivan, John Doona, Tom Johnston (captain),  Michael Griffin, James O’Shea, Robert Evans, John O’Dwyer, Frank Brennan, Owen Joy. Subs: Paudie Russell for F. Brennan, Joe Doyle for O. Joy, Ger Costello, Colm Joy, Derry O’Sullivan.

Referee: John Griffin (Listry).

 

Semi-final on Thurs. 17^th September at Strand Road: Laune Rangers B 2-11; Desmonds B 0-6.

A great performance in adverse conditions – the field was very slippery as the grass was just cut, the opposition was very physical but Rangers overcame both to accord a very good win. They were then in the final for the second year in a row. Mark O’Sullivan was tremendous. Michael Hassett was brilliant. Derry O’Sullivan was very good. Frankie Brennan was also very good. Rangers were without the services of John Doona (Clonakilty), William Joy (Kildare), Owen Joy (Dublin), James O’Shea (inj), Liam Foley (inj). Adrian Hassett was sent off with 10mins to go and Rangers were just 3 points ahead at the time.

Laune Rangers: James Sheehan, John F. O’Brien, Adrian Hassett, Owen Corkery, Mark O’Sullivan, Martin Clifford, Anthony O’Sullivan, Tom Johnston (captain), Michael Hassett, Owen O’Sullivan, Derry O’Sullivan, Jason Griffin, John O’Dwyer, Frankie Brennan, Carl O’Sullivan. Subs: Michael Griffin for O. O’Sullivan; Joe Doyle.

 

Final on Sun. 4^th October at Beaufort: Kerins O Rahilly’s B 0-8; Laune Rangers B 0-2.

Laune Rangers were terrible. The club had asked the Co. Board if it could play the ‘B’ players who had played in the Co. Club Championship but were refused permission. However, K. O’Rahilly’s did play their players, who had played in the Co. Club Championship. Rangers could have played Mike Hassett, John Doona, Owen Joy and James O Shea and those players might have made the difference. Laune Rangers challenged the decision and, at the Co. Board meeting on 12^th Oct, the Chairman ruled that the Club Championship did not effect ‘B’ team or ‘C’ team status, as it was a special competition. One rule for one club, another for another club!

Timmy Sheehan in ‘The Kerryman’ described the match as follows:

‘The county football ‘B’ club championship has been dominated by Kerins O’Rahilly’s in recent years and so the trend continued on Sunday afternoon in Beaufort when they brushed aside a most disappointing Laune Rangers challenge. It was a fine display by O’Rahilly’s who showed a lot of heart on their play throughout the 60 minutes.’

‘Inspired by the rangy and resourceful Ger O’Brien at midfield, the Tralee side always looked likely winners even if the scoreboard didn’t truly represent the superiority they exerted in all quarters throughout the tie. The early exchanges were at times contested in an over zealous fashion which seemed to knock the Killorglin side from their stride somewhat as they missed two relatively easy point scoring opportunities during the opening minutes.’

‘With Tom McCarthy prominent in defence, O’Rahilly’s settled to lead by three points after eight minutes, courtesy of Declan O’Connor, Mike Griffin and Martin Hartnett from a free. O’Rahilly’s did have the advantage of a fairly stiffish breeze, but their dominance was due largely to the determined and creative football being served up by their midfielders Ger O’Brien and Tony Griffin. Two points from John O’Connor, one from a free, extended the O’Rahilly’s lead even further while Rangers, despite the promptings of Jason Griffin, were making little impression up front, being repulsed repeatedly by the Tralee side’s outstanding corner backs, Philip O’Connor and Johnny Kelly.’

‘The Killorglin team were denied what looked like a certain goal, by the tenacity and alertness of goalkeeper Tom Lynch, but any chance they had of forcing their way back into contention was squandered by inaccuracy. Martin Clifford, in a swop with Mark O’Sullivan, came to midfield. The change benefited both players considerably and helped to revive a sagging Killorglin challenge but the wides tally continued to mount as O’Rahilly’s went further clear thanks to the outstanding Mike Griffin who notched his second of the game. John O’Dwyer had a sole reply for Laune Rangers right on the stroke of half time.’

‘Even though Rangers would have wind assistance during the second half, one really couldn’t see the dominance of O’Rahilly’s being threatened as they looked a much more composed and committed outfit during the opening 30 minutes. The leaders restarted much the livelier team, even if their accuracy didn’t always match their admirable enthusiasm. Full back Niall Hanley drove wide from the penalty spot with Mike Griffin compensating somewhat, kicking O’Rahilly’s first point of the half to extend their lead to a commanding six points. Jason Griffin had a quick reply from a free but O’Rahilly’s momentum was firmly maintained by the most determined Tom McCarthy in defence and the elusive Mike Griffin up front.’

‘A period of stalemate followed but O’Rahilly’s, with Davy Keane as a key figure, still looked a lot better equipped in all sectors. However they failed to add to their total despite some admirable approach work which almost inevitably had Martin Hartnett, John O’Connor and Declan O’Connor as central figures.’

‘O’Connor, from a free, had the final score of the game 11 minutes from time. And even though Laune Rangers benefited from the introduction of James Sheehan, they could never break down a resolute O’Rahilly’s defence in which Mark O’Sullivan and Philip O’Connor were quite outstanding. It was a most deserved success for O’Rahilly’s who were inspired by the stout hearted Tom McCarthy, the splendid fetching and kicking of Ger O’Brien and the marksmanship of the supremely talented Mike Griffin up front.’

‘Rangers, by their own high standards, were a huge disappointment, never displaying the cohesion and confidence which has been a hallmark of their displays in recent years. Hassett, Clifford, Johnston and Jason Griffin did their utmost in pursuit of victory but they were always playing second fiddle to the men from Strand Road who, once they asserted a firm grip early in the first quarter, were always odds on to add further to their list of championship success in this grade.’

‘Referee Mike O’Donoghue, despite being somewhat lenient in his efforts to let play flow, was once again very much a commanding figure and can feel well pleased with his display. The game was timed for 2.30pm but only got underway at 3.40pm. Even allowing for the extra time in the club championship game between St. Mary’s and Gneeveguilla, the late start wasn’t in keeping with what one normally expects in championship deciders.’

‘Eamonn O’Sullivan, PRO of the Kerry County Board, presented the championship trophy to the winning captain Davy Keane.’

Laune Rangers: Liam Foley, Anthony O’Sullivan, Adrian Hassett, Owen Corkery, William Joy, Martin Clifford, John F. O’Brien, Tom Johnston (captain), Mark O’Sullivan, Michael Griffin, Derry O’Sullivan, Robert Evans, John O’Dwyer (0-1), Jason Griffin (0-1 free), Dermot Griffin. Subs: Owen O’Sullivan for A. O’Sullivan (inj); James Sheehan for Jn. F. O’Brien; John Griffin for D. O’Sullivan, Colm Joy, Buddy O’Sullivan, Carl O’Sullivan, Karl Griffin, Ger Costello, Joe Doyle.

Kerins O’Rahilly’s: Tom Lynch, Philip O’Connor, Niall Hanley, Johnny Kelly, Tom McCarthy, Davy Keane (captain), Mark O’Sullivan, Tony Griffin, Ger O’Brien, Declan O’Connor (0-1), Martin Hartnett (0-1 free), Mike Griffin (0-3), Ger Moran, Cliff Dillon, John O’Connor (0-3, 0-2 frees). Subs: Bernie Keane (Dillon), John Nix (B. Keane, injured).

Referee: Michael O’Donoghue (Glenflesk).

 

Co. Football League Div. 4

 

Rd. 1 on Sun. 15^th March at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 2-8; Firies A 1-11.

That was a game that Laune Rangers could have both lost and won. Liam Foley was sound in goals. The backs, as a whole, played well – the wing backs were unfit. Tom Johnston and John Doona were great at mid-field. The forwards played in fits and starts. When they combined, they did well but their lack of training told.

Laune Rangers:  Liam Foley, Noel Doyle (capt.), Paudie Russell, Owen Corkery, Martin Clifford, Mark O’Sullivan, John F. O’Brien, Tom Johnston (0-2), John Doona (0-1), Dermot Griffin, Michael O’Reilly (0-1), Michael Moriarty, John O’Dwyer (1-2), James Sheehan (0-1), Francis Brennan (1-0). Subs: Robert Evans for M. Clifford; John Griffin (0-1) for J. O’Dwyer; Buddy O’Sullivan for D. Griffin; Bertie O’Riordan, Carl O’Sullivan.

Referee: Richard Williams (Dingle).

 

Rd. 2 on Sun. 29^th March at Coolard: Ballydonoghue A 1-5; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 0-7.

That was a great performance by a depleted team. The involvement of the 3 county players in the N.F.L. against Meath, took players from that team. Unfortunately, some other players went playing soccer, having promised to attend later but failed to do so.

Laune Rangers: Liam Foley, Noel Doyle, Paudie Russell, Owen Corkery, Martin Clifford, Mark O’Sullivan, Joe Doyle, John Doona, Tom Johnston, John O’Dwyer, Frank Brennan, John Sheehan, Adrian O’Connor, John Griffin, Eoin O’Sullivan.

 

Rd. 3 on Sun. 12^th April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 4-7; Knocknagoshel ‘A’ 2-12.

Rangers were lucky to win but they played well against strong opposition. The backs played well. Rangers struggled at mid-field. Derry O Sullivan was great. He scored 3-2 despite being marked by Jack O Connell. John O’Dwyer played very well but only Jason Griffin of the other forwards made any impression.

Laune Rangers: Liam Foley, Noel Doyle, William Joy, John F. O’Brien, Michael Griffin, Martin Clifford, Robert Evans, Tom Johnston (0-1), John Doona, Jason Griffin (0-3), Francis Brennan, Dermot Griffin, John O’Dwyer (1-1), Derry O’Sullivan (3-2), Joe Doyle. Subs: Mark O’Sullivan for J. Doyle; Paudie Russell for F. Brennan; John Griffin for D. Griffin, Timmy Linehan, Eoin O’Sullivan; Adrian O’Connor.

Referee: Michael Divane (Annascaul).

 

Rd. 4 on Sun. 19^th April at Cromane: Cromane 1-10 A; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 0-7.

Laune Rangers: Liam Foley, Mark O’Sullivan, William Joy, John F. O’Brien, Robert Evans, Martin Clifford, Noel Doyle, Tom Johnston, Michael O’Reilly, Patie Casey, Michael Moriarty, Dermot Griffin, Eoin O’Sullivan, James Sheehan, Frankie Brennan. Key players were missing due to the Co. U-21 semi-final on the following day.

Cromane: John O Riordan, Michael Scannell, Frank Walsh, Brendan Teahan, Gerard Casey, Tomás Hayes, Donie McKenna (0-1), Ciaran O Callaghan (0-1), Tim Carey (0-1), Brian O Sullivan (0-7), John O Mahony (1-0), Pat McCarthy, Liam Hayes, Fergus O Connor, Maurice O Shea. Subs: Dominic Flaherty, Brian Casey, Joe Hoare, Timmy Flaherty, Kieran Little, Colin O Sullivan.

 

Rd. 5 on Sun. 17^th May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 2-14; K. O’Rahilly’s B 0-5.

That was a very good win and necessary to restore flagging spirits. All the backs played well. O Rahilly’s had a man dismissed early in the second half by their own referee – Noel O’Sullivan (the appointed referee did not show up).

Laune Rangers: Liam Foley, Noel Doyle, Paudie Russell, Eoin Corkery, Mark O’Sullivan, Martin Clifford, John F. O’Brien, Robert Evans, John Doona, Michael Griffin, Michael O’Reilly, Dermot Griffin, John O’Dwyer, Derry O’Sullivan, Jason Griffin. Subs: Timmy Linehan for D. O’Sullivan; Michael Lynch, Eoin O’Sullivan, Ger Costello, Anthony O’Sullivan, Joe Doyle, James Hurley.

 

Rd. 6 on Sun. 7^th June at Scartaglin: Scartaglin A 2-10; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 3-7.

 

Rd. 7 on Tues. 14^th July at Dromid: Dromid A 0-8; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 2-8.

Laune Rangers: Liam Foley, Noel Doyle, William Joy, Eoin Corkery, Mark O’Sullivan, Martin Clifford, John F. O’Brien, John Doona, Robert Evans, Michael Griffin, Michael O’Reilly, Dermot Griffin, Jason Griffin, Francis Brennan, Eoin Joy. Subs: Eoin O’Sullivan, Joe Doyle, Anthony O’Sullivan, James Hurley. Frankie Brennan scored (1-3).

 

Rd. 8 on Sun. 16^th August at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 2-8; Templenoe A 0-7.

Laune Rangers: Liam Foley, Anthony O’Sullivan, Adrian Hassett, William Joy, Mark O’Sullivan, Martin Clifford, John F. O’Brien, John Doona, Tom Johnston, Michael Griffin, James O’Shea, Robert Evans, John O’Dwyer, Francis Brennan, Eoin Joy.

 

Rd. 9 on Sat. 5^th September at Mountcoal: St. Senan’s A 2-6; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 1-9.

 

Rd. 10 on Sun. 11^th October at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 1-9; Renard A 2-9.

 

Barrett Cup.

For that competition there were four groups of four teams, with the top two teams in each group qualifying for the quarter-finals. Laune Rangers were grouped with St. Mary’s B, Valentia B and Milltown B. Players who had played with the ‘B’ team in the Molyneaux Cup were ineligible for this competition.

 

Rd. 1 on Fri. 14^th Aug. in Cahersiveen: St. Mary’s B 3-12; Laune Rangers C 5-3.

 

Rd. 2 on Fri. 21^st Aug. at Killorglin: Laune Rangers C 3-10; Valentia B 0-6.

That was a good result against the odds – a Valentia referee, as the appointed referee failed to show. He disallowed a goal by Rangers early on in the game, when John Griffin, who had been off the pitch, ran on to flick the ball to Eamonn Foley, who netted. Rangers dominated midfield and that laid the groundwork for success.

Laune Rangers: Tony Foley, Noel Conroy, Gene Evans, Jack Reen, Pat O Keeffe, Karl Griffin, Enda Foley, Gerard Costello, Colm Joy, Owen O Sullivan, Tim Linehan, Eamonn Foley, Carl O Sullivan, John Griffin, John Sheehan. Subs: Pat Pigott for J. Griffin (inj.).

Ref: Pat O Connor (Valentia).

 

Rd. 3 on Fri. 28^th Aug. at Killorglin: Laune Rangers C 3-5; Milltown/Castlemaine 2-9.

Laune Rangers: Tony Foley, Noel Conroy, Gene Evans, Jack Reen, Pat O Keeffe, Karl Griffin, Enda Foley, Gerard Costello, Colm Joy, Owen O Sullivan, Tim Linehan, Eamonn Foley, Carl O Sullivan, Michael Moriarty, John Sheehan. Subs: Bertie O Riordan for J. Reen; Derry O Sullivan also played.

As St. Mary’s defeated Valentia, Laune Rangers were out of the competition.

 

Co. Urban Football League (Div. 6).

 

Rd. 1 on Sun. 26^th April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers C v Knocknagoshel B.

The pitch was unplayable due to the incessant rain. Laune Rangers contacted the opposition, advising them not to travel.

 

Rd. 2 on Fri. 8^th May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers C 3-6; Firies B 0-17.

Laune Rangers: Tony Foley, Bertie O Riordan, Pat Pigott, Pat Costello, Robert Evans, John F. O Brien, Ray Khan, Michael Moriarty, Gerard Costello, Joe Doyle, Dermot Griffin, Enda Foley, Donal Pigott, John Griffin, John Sheehan (Tinahalla). Sub: Mark Conway for E. Foley.

 

Rd. 3 on Fri. 15^th May at Strand Rd.: K. O Rahilly’s C 1-3; Laune Rangers C 5-14.

Laune Rangers: Tony Foley, Dan Hurley, John F. O Brien, Eoin Corkery, Buddy O Sullivan, Martin Clifford, Ray Khan, Robbie Evans, Gerard Costello, Eoin O Sullivan, Dermot Griffin, James Hurley, John Sheehan, Joe Doyle, Donal Pigott. Subs: John Griffin for J. Sheehan; Sean O Sullivan for B. O Sullivan; Noel Conroy, John Cronin, Pa Costello.

 

Rd. 4 on Fri. 22^nd May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers C 0-8; Scartaglin B 0-8.

Laune Rangers: Tony Foley, Bertie O Riordan, Brian O Shea, Eoin Corkery, Buddy O Sullivan, John F. O Brien, Anthony O Sullivan, Gerard Costello, Brian Mangan, Michael Lynch, Dermot Griffin, Nigel Reidy, Donal Pigott, Joe Doyle, John Sheehan. Subs: Carl O Sullivan for D. Pigott; John Cronin, Noel Conroy.

 

Rd. 5 on Fri. 5^th June at Killeen: Na Gaeil B 1-6; Laune Rangers C 3-9.

Laune Rangers: Tony Foley, Donal Hurley, Brian O Shea, James Hurley, Buddy O Sullivan, Michael Moriarty, Joe Doyle, Gerard Costello, Robert Evans, Nigel Reidy, Dermot Griffin, John Sheehan, Carl O Sullivan, Eoin O Sullivan, Donal Pigott. Subs: Adrian O Connor for D. Pigott; Noel Conroy for J. Hurley (inj.).

 

Rd. 6 on Fri. 12^th June at Killorglin: Laune Rangers C 0-11; Desmonds C 0-8.

 

Rd. 7 on Fri. 19^th June at Spa: Spa B 2-8; Laune Rangers C 1-2.

Laune Rangers: Tony Foley, Donal Hurley, Brian O Shea, James Hurley, Karl Griffin, Anthony O Sullivan, Buddy O Sullivan, Robbie Evans, Gerard Costello, Eoin O Sullivan, Dermot Griffin, John Sheehan, Carl O Sullivan, Michael Moriarty, Donal Pigott. Subs: Joe Doyle for J. Hurley (inj.), Nigel Reidy for D. Pigott; Adrian O Connor and Jack Reen.

 

Rd. 8 on Fri. 26^th June at Killorglin: Laune Rangers C 0-8; K. O Rahilly’s C 0-8.

Laune Rangers: Jack Reen, Pat O Keeffe, Bertie O Riordan, Eoin Corkery, Karl Griffin, Anthony O Sullivan, Buddy O Sullivan, Gerard Costello, Robbie Evans, Nigel Reidy, Eoin O Sullivan, Carl O Sullivan, Donal Pigott, Tony Foley, John Sheehan. Subs: Tim Linehan and Noel Conroy.

 

Rd. 9 on Fri. 3^rd July at Blennerville: St. Patrick’s B 1-10; Laune Rangers C 1-9.

Laune Rangers, after leading by four points at the interval, went behind by four points in a thrilling second half and, in a great fight-back, with John Sheehan scoring a fine goal, they tried hard for the equaliser but time was against them. Best for the Rangers were Noel Conroy, Robbie Evans and Eoin O Sullivan.

 

Rd. 10 on Fri. 10^th July at Killorglin: Laune Rangers C 2-15; Legion B 1-4.

Laune Rangers: Tony Foley, Dan Hurley, Martin Clifford, Eoin Corkery, Nigel Reidy (0-2), Mark O Sullivan, John F. O Brien (0-1), Gerard Costello (0-2), Anthony O Sullivan (0-1), Eoin O Sullivan (0-3), Dermot Griffin (0-2), John Sheehan, James Hurley (0-2), Michael Moriarty, Carl O Sullivan (1-1). Subs: Robert Evans for M. Moriarty; Joe Doyle (1-0) for J. Sheehan, Tim Linehan (0-1) for G. Costello.

 

Rd. 11 on Fri. 17the July at Ballybunion: Beale B 1-12; Laune Rangers C 1-7.

 

Mid-Kerry Senior Football Championship

 

Semi-Final on Sun. 8^th Nov. at J. P. O Sullivan Park: Laune Rangers 5-16; Keel 0-2.

That was a mismatch. Keel football, at the time, had gone to the dogs. Only for Johnny Sheehan in the Keel goals, Rangers would have scored another five or six goals. The Killorglin backs were superb. The midfielders played superbly. All the forwards did their share. Jason Griffin got two goals. Billy O Sullivan, Billy O Shea and Mike Hassett got one each.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Adrian Hassett, Paudie Sheahan, Mark O Connor, Mike Hassett, Tommy Byrne, Shane O Sullivan, Joe Shannon, John Doona, James O Shea, Pierce Prendiville, Pat McKenna, Billy O Shea, Timmy Fleming, Billy O Sullivan. Subs: Mark O Sullivan for S. O Sullivan; Jason Griffin for B. O Shea; Danny Cahill for T. Byrne. Missing was Paul Griffin, who had broken a collar-bone while training in Dublin.

Ref: Dan O Sullivan (Currow).

 

Final on Sun. 22^nd Nov. at Milltown: Laune Rangers 1-9; Beaufort 1-4.

Laune Rangers played with the aid of a strong wind in the first half and took a long time to settle. Timmy Fleming scored a great goal. Points followed from Pat McKenna, Timmy Fleming, James O Shea and Pierce Prendiville. Beaufort retaliated and were rewarded with a goal to leave the halftime score at 1-6 to 1-1. That goal helped to spur the Killorglin lads to even greater heights in the second half and they had great performances from Mark O Connor, Shane Shane O Sullivan, Paudie Sheahan, John Doona, Pierce Prendiville and Timmy Fleming.

On the following Saturday night, Timmy Fleming was presented with the man-of-the-match award, sponsored by Peadar O Sullivan, Glenbeigh. The Mid-Kerry Board was represented by Michael Healy (Secretary) and John Dowling (Vice-Chairman).

Eamonn Horan’s account of the game in the Kerryman was as follows: ‘Laune Rangers were worthy winners of this hard-fought Mid-Kerry senior football championship final at Milltown on Sunday. It was a game that resulted in a personal triumph for county player Timmy Fleming, for not alone did the sprightly full-forward captain his side to victory but he also accounted for all but three of his side’s scores over the 60 minutes.

But, at the end of the day, Beaufort were left to regret their squandered chances in a game, which saw them enjoy a considerable amount of possession. However, despite some excellent work around the middle of the field, their forwards were notoriously shot-shy and only two of their attackers managed to get among the scores. The sticky underfoot conditions didn’t help matters for either side but, on the day, Laune Rangers adapted better and were always a move or two ahead of their rivals.

For most of the game it was grim, man-to-man combative fare and hard knocks and crunching tackles were delivered and endured in the best traditions of the rivalry that exists between the teams. Indeed, such was the closeness of the marking that only 6 of the 15 scores came from play. The winners led by 1-2 to nil after 12 minutes, Fleming bursting his way through the middle for a stunning goal after six minutes. Joe Shannon was in fine form in the centre of the field for Rangers and triggered off some fine attacking movements. His partner, John Doona, came more into the game in the second half.

But over the hour Gary McGrath, in particular, and Donie Hartnett won a lot of good ball for the losers at midfield and their strenuous promptings deserved a better reward than they actually achieved. McGrath was particularly impressive, fetching with great aplomb and plying his forwards with some excellent ball. But Beaufort lacked finish up front as is shown by the fact that they only scored twice from play during the entire game.

Rangers played with the assistance of a very strong wind in the opening half and, when they turned over leading by just five points at halftime (1-6 to 1-1), they must have had some misgivings as they retired to their dressing-room. Fleming kicked three first half points from frees and half-forwards James O Shea, Pierce Prendiville and Pat McKenna added the others from play. Beaufort’s backs had to defend stoutly all through the opening half, with John B. O Brien, Kieran O Shea and Fergal Spillane being particularly effective in this respect. But the Rangers’ forwards also missed some easy chances of scores during this half. Six minutes before halftime, Beaufort introduced Ian O Shea in place of Francis Courtney at left corner-forward and O Shea justified his call-up by scoring a superb goal in the 30^th minute. Himself and corner-forward Cormac O Shea exchanged passes before Ian unleashed a stinging shot, which saw the ball catapult into the net off full-back Paudie Sheahan. It was a timely score for the losers and must have boosted their morale as they faced the second half, with the wind to their backs. However, Beaufort were fortunate not to have been much further adrift at the break as Rangers missed several good scoring chances in this half.

The second half followed much the same pattern as the first with the rival defences largely succeeding in containing the best efforts of the forwards to get through for scores. Both sides scored three points apiece in this half – Fleming notching scores from frees in the 35^th, 43^rd and 60 minutes while Beaufort’s points came from Gary McGrath, Brendan Breen and John O Connor in the 40^th, 53^rd and 55^th minutes, the first two of them coming from frees. Beaufort exerted a lot of pressure on the winners’ defence in this half but their forwards were unable to break down the resistance of the Rangers’ backs. In addition, midfielder Joe Shannon made the extra man behind on a number of occasions and was there to avert possible danger.

The losers made desperate endeavours to bridge the gap in the closing 10 minutes as they trailed by six points (1-8 to 1-2). Brendan Breen pointed a free for them and, almost immediately, Hartnett had a chance but he drove the ball high and very wide before left half-back, John O Connor popped up to boot over another point. Again they drove forward but McGrath was wide with the shot. Their supporters roared on the men in blue and yellow as Mick Spillane, Kieran O Shea, Cormac O Shea and Vincent O Donoghue combined to advance on the Laune Rangers’ goal. But when O Donoghue was fouled, John Doona was back in defence to clear from McGrath’s free. With time running out, Fleming was fouled by McGrath and the dynamic Laune Rangers’ captain converted the ensuing free kick to frank his side’s overall superiority.

For their part, Laune Rangers played with great gusto and confidence but somehow their forwards rarely clicked into top gear. Of course, the hard-hitting Beaufort backs didn’t make life easy for them. But the expected threat from Billy O Sullivan never materialised and Billy O Shea, while giving of his best all through, found John Brendan O Brien a major stumbling block. Timmy Fleming was a real powerhouse up front for the winners and showed an insatiable appetite for work. He was well supported by James O Shea, and Pat McKenna and by Pierce Prendiville to a lesser degree. Joe Shannon and John Doona had some terrific duels with Garry McGrath and Donie Hartnett, with Shannon turning in a really workmanlike performance. Mark O Connor, Shane O Sullivan and Tommy Byrne stood out in defence, with O Connor excelling in the second half in particular.

Beaufort had tip-top defenders in John B. O Brien, Kieran O Shea and Fergal Spillane. McGrath shone at midfield, with good backup from Hartnett while, in attack, Brendan Breen, Cormac O Shea and substitute Ian O Shea were most prominent. Beaufort lost nothing in defeat and one of their supporters could justifiably claim at the finish that ‘we were not disgraced.’

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Adrian Hassett, Paudie Sheahan, Danny Cahill, Mark O Connor, Tommy Byrne, Shane O Sullivan, Joe Shannon, John Doona, James O Shea (0-1), Pierce Prendiville (0-1), Pat McKenna (0-1), Billy O Shea, Timmy Fleming (capt.) 1-6, 6 frees, Billy O Sullivan. Subs: Owen Joy, Pa Murphy, Mark O Sullivan, Jason Griffin, Frankie Brennan. Missing because of injury were Paul Griffin and Mike Hassett.

Beaufort: Kieran Doyle, Derry Coffey, Michael Spillane, John B. O Brien, Fergal Spillane, Kieran O Shea, John O Connor (0-1), Donie Hartnett, Gary McGrath (0-2, frees), Aidan Cremin, Vincent O Donoghue, Brendan Breen (0-1, free), Cormac O Shea, Michael Curran, Francis Courtney. Subs: Ian O Shea (1-0) for F. Courtney; Paudie Coffey for D. Coffey.

Referee: Tommy Sugrue (St. Pat’s, Blennerville).

 

Mid-Kerry Senior League

 

Rd. 1 on Sun. 23^rd Feb. at Milltown: Milltown/Castlemaine 2-7; Laune Rangers 1-8.

Laune Rangers played very well throughout. In the first half they played with the aid of a gale but Milltown scored the first three points from frees by J. McAuliffe. Pat McKenna opened Rangers’ account with a point from a free, followed by points from Paul Griffin, who was Rangers’ man-of-the-match. Paul Griffin also got a goal. Points by Joe Shannon and Pat McKenna gave the Launesiders a 1-7 to 0-3 lead coming up to halftime. Then Danny Cahill jumped with Paudie Sheahan and the ball broke to Willie Maher, who put Martin Burke in for a goal. Halftime score 1-7 to 1-3.

Nevertheless, Rangers faced the wind with determination. Paul Griffin almost goaled but blazed over the bar. The Killorglin men defended stoutly, with the halfback line in fine form. The fullback line also played well. Rangers completely dominated midfield. Joe Shannon covered acres of ground. One great run ended when he blazed wide from 14 yards. Patie Casey blazed inches wide. With time running out, Rangers still led by 2 points. A 55 yards sideline kick was misjudged by Peter Lyons and went straight to the net. In the next attack, the ball was rolling wide but Peter Lyons again boobed when he chipped the ball up to Willie Maher and he scored a point. However, that was a good performance, considering that they had no training done while Milltown were in training for the previous three weeks.

Pat McKenna made a return to football after a serious injury and played well. Overall, it was a fine sporting game.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Adrian Hassett, Paudie Sheahan, Danny Cahill, Mark O Connor, Pa Murphy, Shane O Sullivan, Joe Shannon (0-2), Pierce Prendiville, Timmy Corkery, Pat McKenna (0-2), Eoin Joy, Paul Griffin (1-4), Patie Casey, Michael Griffin. Subs: William Joy for D. Cahill; John Doona, Liam Foley. Missing were Billy O Shea, Billy O Sullivan and Timmy Fleming (All in Offaly with Kerry), Tommy Byrne, James O Shea and Michael O Reilly (all injured).

Milltown/Castlemaine: Jim O Connor, Liam Cronin, Michael Colgan, Diarmuid Shanahan, Jim Daly, Andrew Boyle, Gerard Teahan, Mike Dennehy, Linus Burke, Martin Burke, Sean Burke, Joe McAuliffe, Willie Maher, Joe Daly, Liam Kelliher. Subs: Paud Hogan for D. Shanahan; Sean Counihan, Bertie Griffin, Alan Kerins, Timmy Teahan.

Referee: Kieran Breen (Beaufort) – good.

 

Rd. 2 on Sun. 1^st March in Cromane: Cromane 1-4; Laune Rangers 4-10.

That was a pulling and dragging affair, with very little constructive play from the opposition. Laune Rangers fielded four minors and they blended in well and put together some fine samples of football. The visitors played against a stiff breeze in the first half and led 2-4 to 1-3 at the interval. The goal was scored by Frankie Brennan, the culmination of a great move, which started with corner back, Mark O Connor. One of the highlights of the second half was a 40 yard pass by Patie Casey to Billy O Sullivan inside the defence and he clinically finished to the net.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Adrian Hassett, Paudie Sheahan, Mark O Connor, Pa Murphy, Paudie Russell, Shane O Sullivan (0-1), Joe Shannon, Pierce Prendiville, Billy O Shea (0-1), Pat McKenna (0-1), Mikey Griffin, Francis Brennan (1-0), Patie Casey (0-1), Billy O Sullivan (3-5). Subs: Eoin Corkery for A. Hassett; Derry O Sullivan (0-1) for M. Griffin: Kevin Jones for F. Brennan: Michael Lynch, Liam Foley.

Referee: Dan Cronin (Milltown).

 

Rd. 3 on Sun. 8^th March in Glenbeigh: Glenbeigh/Glencar 3-7; Laune Rangers 5-9.

Laune Rangers did not really play well. The Fexco celebrations of the 35^th launching of the Prize Bonds on the previous night did not help. The backs were quite porous. The roughhouse tactics of the opposition did not help either. Lar Joe McKenna and Pat Sheehan were bullies – they were careful whom they hit and concentrated mainly on youngsters. Rangers’ forwards put some good movements together. Pierce Prendiville and Joe Shannon were great. Joe Shannon was sent off near the end (2 minutes left) for ‘mouthing’ at the referee.

Rangers started with a goal by Patie Casey but a quick reply by Seanie Barton kept Glenbeigh’s hopes high. Pierce Prendiville was Rangers best player and he was ably assisted by Shane O Sullivan, Mikey Griffin and Pat McKenna.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Adrian Hassett, Paudie Sheahan, Mark O Connor, Pa Murphy, Tommy Byrne, Shane O Sullivan, Joe Shannon, Pierce Prendiville (1-0), Owen Joy, Pat McKenna (1-3), Michael Griffin (1-0), Paul Griffin (0-3), Patie Casey (2-0), Frankie Brennan (0-3). Subs: Danny Cahill for M. O Connor; John Doona for P. Murphy.

Referee: Michael Murphy (Callinfercy).

 

Rd. 4 on Sun. 5^th April at Keel: Keel 1-10; Laune Rangers 2-19.

That game was over as a contest at halftime, at which time Rangers led by 1-14 to 0-3. Joe Shannon was in great form at midfield, ably assisted by John Doona. The forwards ran well, combined well and scored at will. The back line, having played well in the first half, seemed to get too casual and allowed some easy scores. However, the result was never in doubt.

Laune Rangers: Andrew Doyle, Danny Cahill, Paudie Sheahan, Mark O Connor, Pa Murphy, Adrian Hassett, Shane O Sullivan (0-1), Joe Shannon (0-3), John Doona, Timmy Corkery, Pat McKenna (0-2), Michael O Reilly (0-2), Billy O Shea (0-4), Patie Casey (0-2), Billy O Sullivan (1-5). Subs: Michael Griffin (1-0) for B. O Shea; Mark O Sullivan for P. Murphy.

Referee: Michael Healy (Cromane).

 

Rd. 5 on Sun. 26^th April at Beaufort: Beaufort 1-6; Laune Rangers 0-7.

Laune Rangers had elected to travel. That was a very bad performance by Rangers, who played poorly while aided by the wind in the first half. Paul Griffin was sent off after ten minutes of the second half. Rangers played better in that half, but their weaknesses in the forwards caused their downfall in the end. Tommy Byrne, Paudie Sheahan, Shane O Sullivan, Pa Murphy, Joe Shannon and John Doona played well. As a result of that game, Laune Rangers were out of the league.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Pa Murphy, Paudie Sheahan, Mark O Connor, Michael Griffin, Tommy Byrne, Shane O Sullivan, Joe Shannon, John Doona, Derry O Sullivan, Pat McKenna (0-2), Patie Casey (0-1), Paul Griffin (0-2), Michael O Reilly (0-1), Billy O Sullivan (0-1). Subs: Adrian Hassett for D. O Sullivan; Mark O Sullivan. Missing due to injury – Pierce Prendiville, Billy O Shea, Danny Cahill and Timmy Fleming.

 

Mid-Kerry League Final on Sat. 30^th May at Killorglin: Milltown/Castlemaine 1-8; Beaufort 0-6.

 

Mid-Kerry ‘B’ Football Championship

 

Rd. 1 on Tues. 5^th May at Milltown: Milltown/Castlemaine B 1-9; Laune Rangers B 1-7.

Laune Rangers were very depleted due to the U-21’s being in the Co. Final on the following Sunday. Nevertheless, they still could have won.

Laune Rangers: Tony Foley, Noel Doyle (captain), Michael Moriarty, Mark O’Sullivan, Paudie O’Shea, Martin Clifford, John F. O’Brien, Tom Johnston, Liam Foley, Dermot Griffin, Michael O’Reilly, Ger Costello, John O’Dwyer, Pat Pigott, Joe Doyle. Subs: John Griffin for J. Doyle; Donal Pigott, Kevin Heffernan.

Referee: Michael O’Sullivan (Glenbeigh).

 

Rd. 2 on Tues. 19^th May at Glenbeigh: Glenbeigh B 3-5; Laune Rangers B 2-10.

Laune Rangers: Liam Foley, Noel Doyle (captain), Paudie Russell, Mark O’Sullivan, Robert Evans, Martin Clifford, John F. O’Brien, John Doona, Michael O’Reilly, Michael Griffin, Pat McKenna, Dermot Griffin, John O’Dwyer, Timmy Linehan, Patrick Costello.

 

Rd. 3 on Tues. 26^th May at Beaufort: Beaufort B 1-5; Laune Rangers B 3-12.

Laune Rangers: Liam Foley, Noel Doyle, Paudie Russell, Eoin Corkery, Adrian Hassett, Martin Clifford, John F. O’Brien, John Doona, Michael O’Reilly, Michael Griffin, Pat McKenna, Dermot Griffin, John O’Dwyer, Timmy Linehan, Michael Lynch. Subs: Tom Johnston, Pat Costello, Joe Doyle (all played).

 

Rd. 4 on Tues. 2^nd June at Keel: Keel B 0-5; Laune Rangers B 0-14.

The game was abandoned by referee, Dan Cronin, when a Keel player refused to leave the field, having been ordered off.

Laune Rangers: Liam Foley, Noel Doyle (captain), Paudie Russell, Eoin Corkery, Mark O’Sullivan, Martin Clifford, John F. O’Brien, Tom Johnston, John Doona, Michael Griffin, Pat McKenna, Dermot Griffin, John O’Dwyer, Michael O’Reilly, Jason Griffin. Subs: Robert Evans for J. Griffin; Michael Moriarty for D. Griffin.

 

Rd. 4 (Refixture) on Sun. 14^th June at Killorglin: Laune Rangers B 4-14; Keel B 0-4.

That win put the team into the final.

Laune Rangers: Liam Foley, Noel Doyle (captain), Adrian Hassett, Eoin Corkery, Robert Evans, Martin Clifford, John F. O’Brien, John Doona, Pat McKenna, Michael Griffin, Ger Costello, Dermot Griffin, John O’Dwyer, Eoin Joy, Joe Doyle. Subs: Paudie O’Shea (Glencar) and Carl O’Sullivan (both played).

 

Final on Wed. 17^th June at Killorglin: Laune Rangers B 1-8; Glenbeigh B 0-10.

Glenbeigh had a strong team on duty – Pat O’Grady, Pat Sheehan and Morgan Sheehan. Laune Rangers were one point ahead with one minute left to play, when the referee awarded Glenbeigh a dubious penalty, which they drove wide.

Laune Rangers: Liam Foley, Noel Doyle (captain), Adrian Hassett, Eoin Corkery, John F. O’Brien, Martin Clifford, Mark O’Sullivan, Tom Johnston, John Doona, Dermot Griffin, Pat McKenna, Michael Griffin, John O’Dwyer, Michael O’Reilly, Robert Evans. Subs: Eoin Joy for M. O’Sullivan.

Referee: Frank Walsh (Cromane).

 

Mid-Kerry B Championship

 

Rd. 1 on Tues. 5^th May at Beaufort: Beaufort ‘B’ v Laune Rangers ‘C’.

 

Rd. 2 Tues. 19^th May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers C 1-5; Keel B 2-7.

Laune Rangers: Tony Foley, Buddy O Sullivan, Brian O Shea, James Hurley, Anthony O Sullivan, Bertie O Riordan, Ray Khan, Michael Moriarty, Gerard Costello, Michael Lynch, Eoin O Sullivan, John Sheehan, Joe Doyle, Pat Pigott, Nigel Reidy. Subs: Padraig Lynch, Sean Moriarty, John Cronin.

 

Rd. 3 on Tues. 26^th May at Glenbeigh: Glenbeigh/Glencar B 4-14; Laune Rangers C 1-1.

Laune Rangers: Bertie O Riordan, Joe Doyle, Kevin Heffernan, Adrian O Connor (Alfie), Nigel Reidy, Buddy O Sullivan, Noel Conroy, Gerard Costello, Anthony O Sullivan, James Hurley, Enda Foley, Turlough Byrnes, Donal Pigott, John Sheehan, Tommy O Riordan. Subs: Tony Foley for E. Foley; Enda Foley for T. O Riordan.

 

Rd. 4 on Tues. 2^nd June at Milltown: Milltown/Castlemaine B 2-10; Laune Rangers C 2-4.

 

Senior Parish League

The senior panel was excluded from that competition. There were five teams, Rangue, Douglas, Mountain View, Over Laune and The Town. The competition was for 15-a-side, but permission was given to play 14-a-side or 13-a-side, depending on the numbers that teams had. However, the minimum number was 13, so that if one team had 12 players, the opposition could play 13. The team, with the bye, provided the referee. Three points were awarded for a win, two points for a draw and one point for turning up for the game. The team managers were, Town – Ger Counihan and Declan Falvey, Mountain View – Liam Shannon and Donie Griffin, Douglas – John Griffin and Maurice Corkery, Rangue – Michael O Shea and James McInery, Over Laune – James Ferris and John Clifford.

 

Rd. 1 on Mon. 20^th July at 7.30pm: Rangue 1-11; Douglas 0-7.

Rangue: John Foley (Caragh Lake), Noel Doyle, John Griffin (Caragh Lake), Nessan Diggin (Laharn), Noel O Sullivan (Iveragh Park), John F. O Brien (Caragh Lake), Anthony O Sullivan (Iveragh Park), Michael O Reilly (Farrentoreen), Joe Doyle, Mark O Sullivan (Iveragh Park), Michael Moriarty (Iveragh Park), Patrick Foley (Laharn), Sean Whelan (Laharn), Timmy Linehan (Laharn), James McInery (Tullig).

Douglas: Stephen O Sullivan, Donal Hurley, Jerry Foley (Sunhill), Paul O Brien, Brendan Corkery (Tullig), Eoin Corkery, James Hurley, Gerard Costello, James O Shea (Lonart), Mikey Griffin, Dermot Griffin, Patrick O Sullivan (Sunhill), James Foran (Tullig), John Griffin, Colm Joy (Lonart). Sub: Michael Costello – played.

Town 4-2; Mountain View 1-4

As Mountain View had only 12 players, the Town was allowed, by rule, to play 13 players.

Town: James Sheehan, Adrian O Connor, Paudie O Shea (Glencar), Nigel Reidy, Pa Foley, John Doona, Owen O Sullivan, Dodo Sheahan, John O Dwyer, Declan Falvey, Carl O Sullivan, Patrick Clifford (Dromin), Turlough Byrnes. Subs: Dominic Crowley, Jerry Houlihan, Timmy Moroney – all played.

Mountain View: Gerard Clifford, Liam Clifford (Glencuttane), William Joy (Knocknaboola), Brian Kissane (Glencuttane), Ivor Falvey (Farrentoreen), Laurence Hogan, Martin Clifford (Glencuttane), Eoin Joy (Knocknaboola), Pa Costello, Michael Lynch, Frankie Brennan (Ownagarry), Jack Reen.

Ref: (for both games) – Jerome Conway (Over Laune).

 

Rd. 2 on Mon. 27^th July:             Rangue 0-11; Over Laune 0-3.

Douglas 2-5; Town 1-6.

Ref: (for both games) – Tommy Byrne (Mountain View).

 

Rd. 3 on Mon. 3^rd Aug:             Douglas 0-8; Over Laune 0-4.

Rangue 3-5; Mountain View 1-5.

Ref: (for both games) – Ger Counihan (The Town).

 

Rd. 4 on Sun. 23^rd Aug. at 12.30pm: Town 1-9; Over Laune 1-1.

Town: James Sheehan, Pa Foley, John Cronin, Dodo Sheahan, Pat Clifford, Declan Falvey, John Doona, Owen O Sullivan, Eamonn Foley, Tony O Sullivan, Carl O Sullivan, Dominic Crowley, John O Dwyer.

Over Laune: Tony Foley, Kevin Heffernan, Redmond Fitzgerald, Gene Evans, Roy Evans, Michael Cahillane, Liam Foley, Glenn Evans, Robert Evans, Enda Foley, John Sheehan (Tinnahalla), Pat Pigott, Tom Johnston (late arrival). Robert Evans was sent off for verbally abusing the referee, John Griffin, Caragh Lake, and was subsequently suspended by the club for one month. (That incident finished John Griffin’s involvement with Laune Rangers. He later rejoined Glenbeigh and, later still, Cromane).

At 1.30pm: Douglas 2-7; Mountain View 0-7.

Douglas: Paul O Brien, Brendan Corkery, Jerry Foley, Bertie O Riordan (Tullig), Noel Conroy (Tullig), Owen Corkery, James Hurley, James O Shea, Mikey Griffin, Jerry O Brien, Ray Khan (Sunhill), Gerard Costello, Colm Joy, Stephen Corkery (Reen). Subs: Dermot Griffin, John griffin, Rory Corkery.

Mountain View: Andrew Doyle (Glencuttane), Gerard Clifford, William Joy, Pa Costello, Pat O Brien (Ardmoniel), Karl Griffin, Martin Clifford, Jason Griffin, Frankie Brennan, Derry O Sullivan, Michael Lynch, Derry O Donoghue (Glencuttane), Jack Reen.

Ref: (for both games) – John Griffin (Rangue).

The remainder of the competition was deferred until the following year and the semi-final was played on Sat. 1^st May 1993.

 

Co. U-21 Football Championship

Team Mentors – James Sheehan (trainer/coach), Noel O Mahony, Maurice Corkery and Tom Johnston.

 

Rd. 1 on Sun. 22^nd March at Ardfert: Laune Rangers 6-9; Feale Rangers 1-5.

Laune Rangers began very well against the wind, scoring three points per Timmy Corkery and Billy O Sullivan (2). Feale Rangers then got a rather soft goal, when a long, high kick went straight into the net. Rangers recovered and Billy O Sullivan converted a penalty. Billy O Shea got another goal before the short whistle, at which time Rangers led by 2-6 to 1-2. In the second half, the Rangers of the Laune ran out easy winners. They showed great determination and the younger players led by example with fine displays from Mikey Griffin, Mike Hassett, Derry O Sullivan and, in particular, Andrew Doyle, who brought off some excellent saves. All the backs played well, especially the halfback line, which excelled. Midfield was very good. Billy O Shea, who operated around midfield, was great. Timmy Corkery tried hard throughout.

Laune Rangers: Andrew Doyle, Paudie Russell, Adrian Hassett, Eoin Corkery, Eoin Joy (1-0), Pa Murphy (capt.) 0-1, Mikey Griffin, John Doona, Mike Hassett, Timmy Corkery (0-2), Derry O Sullivan, Jason Griffin (1-0), Eoin O Sullivan, Billy O Sullivan (2-3), Billy O Shea (2-1). Subs: Kevin Jones for E. O Sullivan, Carl O Sullivan for D. O Sullivan, John O Donnell for E. Corkery (inj.), Karl Griffin, Paudie O Shea (Glencar), Timmy Linehan (inj.), Brian Mangan (not yet transferred back from Limerick).

Ref: Sean Kissane (Kerins O Rahilly’s).

 

Quarter-final on Sat. 4^th April at Farranfore: Laune Rangers 2-8; Desmonds 1-3.

Laune Rangers won that game in the first half, with the forwards combining well to notch some excellent scores. Billy O Sullivan hit the post with a penalty kick but, nevertheless, Rangers led at halftime by 2-3 to 0-2.

In the second half the game deteriorated, as Desmonds became cynical and the referee ridiculous. He sent the Desmonds fullback off for continuously thumping Billy O Sullivan but, thereafter, he tried to compensate to Desmonds. He pulled frees on Laune Rangers’ players to such an extent that everybody was perplexed. Desmonds took advantage to commit cynical, unpunished fouls. Even Desmonds’ followers were laughing at the referee’s decisions. Owen Joy was sent off, one minute into injury time. Charlie Nelligan, Desmonds coach, was a disgrace on the sideline – encouraging his players to be cynical and ridiculing any of the Rangers’ players, who had gone down injured. Rangers were lucky to avoid serious injury. Eoin Joy was sent off by the referee and, at a subsequent Co. Board meeting, he was suspended for two weeks.

Laune Rangers: Andrew Doyle, Paudie Russell, Adrian Hassett, Eoin Corkery, Eoin Joy, Pa Murphy (capt.), Mikey Griffin, John Doona (0-1), Mike Hassett, Timmy Corkery (0-2), Derry O Sullivan, Jason Griffin, Eoin O Sullivan, Billy O Sullivan (2-4), Billy O Shea (0-1). Subs: Nigel Reidy for E. O Sullivan, Kevin Jones for J. Griffin, Brian Mangan (He walked off in a huff as he was about to be put on), Timmy Linehan, Anthony O Sullivan, John O Donnell, James Hurley, Carl O Sullivan, Karl Griffin, Adrian O Connor (St. James’ Gardens).

Ref: Pat Sheehy (Clounmacon).

 

Semi-final on Mon. 20^th April at Ardfert: Laune Rangers 4-6; Shannon Rangers 1-11.

A strong wind blew straight down the field and Laune Rangers elected to play against it in the first half. Eamon Horan described the game in the Kerryman as follows: ‘Their ability to score three goals against the run of play in the opening half proved decisive in Laune Rangers’ hard-earned but thoroughly deserved victory over Shannon Rangers. The losers had every reason to rue those dreadful defensive lapses in the first half. The North-Kerry side had enjoyed some fine territorial advantage, and were three points up before their rivals had time to find their feet. But a rather porous defence was punished by the winners’ quick-silver attack, which struck with devastating effect on the few occasions that they managed to mount offensive in that half. Centre half-forward, Derry O Sullivan, hammered the ball past goalkeeper Mark Donegan in the eighth minute and, seven minutes later, the losers’ defence was again caught napping as county senior player Billy O Shea popped up to take on the opposing defence and crack the ball to the net. In their third real attack of the half, Laune Rangers again struck with a vengeance about two minutes from the interval. This time it was the turn of master score-maker Billy O Sullivan to take on the losers’ defence and he made it all look so terribly easy as he waltzed through and fired the ball past goalkeeper Donegan. The losers were in a spin and they had scarcely recovered from the shock of that third goal when crafty corner-forward Jason Griffin whipped over an opportunist point. Laune Rangers led at halftime by 3-1 to 0-8.

The second half produced a see-saw battle for supremacy and the North-Kerry side did not go down without one hell of a fight. Billy O Sullivan, ever a danger at full-forward, opened the second half scoring with a point within a minute of the restart. This was negated three minutes later when tall T. J. O Connor, who had been introduced at midfield, swung over a lovely point. The football was fast and exciting, as both sides strove to gain the initiative. In the 35^th minute, Billy O Shea showed his class, when he won possession and steered a beautiful ball over the bar from out on the right wing. That left Laune Rangers in front by three points, 3-3 to 0-9.

However, Shannon Rangers were nothing if not forceful and competitive. They quickly regrouped their forces and in the 36^th minute they struck for their only goal of the game and what a fine goal it was into the bargain. Left half-forward Eamonn Hennessy it was who created the opening for Kenneth Boyle and the talented full-forward showed why he was rated as such a fine marksman by rifling the ball into the right corner with his left foot. Suddenly Shannon Rangers were level with their rivals as their mentors urged them on from the sideline. They had a chance to take the lead soon afterwards but Boyle was wide with his parting shot when he would have been wiser to have left the ball off to a better placed colleague.

Laune Rangers regained the lead when Mike Hassett and Derry O Sullivan combined to put Jason Griffin through for a point. At that juncture, right half-forward Timmy Corkery was injured in a tussle for the ball and, even though he played on for a while, he was eventually forced to retire in the 45^th minute. Brian Mangan was introduced into the attack instead of the injured Corkery and what a shrewd move that proved to be by the Mid-Kerry mentors. Boyle was wide from a free for the losers but Derry O Sullivan was just as culpable at the other end before Billy O Sullivan cut through the defence and passed to Billy O Shea, who slotted the ball over the bar to increase his side’s lead to two points.

Shannon Rangers mounted an attack and Eamonn Hennessy pointed to reduce his side’s deficit to the minimum (3-5 to 1-10). Billy O Shea had now moved to the forty in a switch with Derry O Sullivan. The winners attacked but Billy O Sullivan’s shot at goal was well handled by goalkeeper Donegan. Still, Shannon Rangers piled on the pressure and their efforts were rewarded just over 20 minutes into the half when T. J. O Connor and Eamonn Hennessy combined to put Mike Heaphy through for the levelling score. It was still all to play for and Shannon Rangers were very much in contention going into the last ten minutes. They displayed no little ability in winning possession but their finishing left them down on a couple of occasions, much to the chagrin of their supporters.

However, it was the men from the Laune who produced the superior finish on the day. In a snap attack, Billy O Sullivan showed his comrades the way with a neatly struck point from play after 52 minutes. The losers counter-attacked but centre halfback Pa Murphy was there to see off the threat. Shannon Rangers battled gallantly to try and get back on terms once more but it was Laune Rangers who produced the killer blow when it mattered most. Billy O Sullivan took a pass from his brother, Derry, but his shot was blocked. However, Brian Mangan was in the right spot at the right time when he fastened onto the rebound and blasted the ball to the net for the score that finally sealed Shannon Rangers’ fate. In the dying seconds, the losers forced a 45. That was taken by Boyle, who found Mike Heaphy but the danger was averted by fullback Adrian Hassett.

The winners had their top performers in goalkeeper Andrew Doyle, defenders Adrian Hassett, Pa Murphy and Mikey Griffin, midfielder John Doona and forwards Billy O Sullivan, Billy O Shea, Derry O Sullivan, Jason Griffin and substitute Brian Mangan.’

Laune Rangers: Andrew Doyle, Paudie Russell, Adrian Hassett, Eoin Corkery, Eoin Joy, Pa Murphy, Mikey Griffin, John Doona, Mike Hassett, Timmy Corkery, Derry O Sullivan (1-0), Billy O Shea (1-2), Jason Griffin (0-2), Billy O Sullivan (1-2), Nigel Reidy. Subs: Anthony O Sullivan for P. Russell (injured hamstring), Brian Mangan (1-0) for T. Corkery (inj.), Eoin O Sullivan for N. Reidy, Timmy Linehan, Carl O Sullivan, Paudie O Shea (Glencar), John O Donnell, Karl Griffin, Stephen O Sullivan. James Hurley was injured for that game.

Shannon Rangers: Mark Donegan, G. O Grady, C. O Connor, Mike Donovan, J. Bolger, Brian Ross, Dan Twomey, Adrian Broderick (0-2), Fergus Stack, P. Healy, T. Foley, Eamonn Hennessy (0-2), Mike Heaphy (0-2), Kenneth Boyle (1-2), Liam Weir (0-2). Subs: T. J. O Connor (0-1) for A. Broderick.

Ref: Albert O Sullivan (Kerins O Rahillys).

 

Final on Sun. 10^th May at Austin Stacks Park: South-Kerry 2-14; Laune Rangers 2-6.

South Kerry overpowered Laune Rangers on a pitch that was very slippery because of heavy pre-match rain. South Kerry displayed a wide range of talents and the outcome was predictable once they were able to open up a lead of 0-8 to nil against the breeze in the opening 18 minutes of the first half. Laune Rangers did strike back for a goal in the 22^nd minute, following a serious fielding error by one of the South Kerry players, but that did not upset the composure of the southerners and they went on to lead at halftime by 1-8 to 1-2, having got a goal through midfielder Paul Curran.

Two minutes into the second half, John Quirke got a second goal for South Kerry and, although Laune Rangers never gave up the fight, they were always doomed to failure after that. In the end, the winning margin of eight points was a fair reflection of South Kerry’s superiority. Not that Laune Rangers sat back and admired. They played their hearts out and got within six points of their opponents at one stage of the second half but the simple fact was that they did not possess the overall power of South Kerry and they were the first to admit that afterwards.

Only two scores separated the sides eight minutes from the end and there were a few scary moments at the back for South Kerry, with goalkeeper Oran O Mahony doing particularly well on one occasion to deny substitute Kevin Jones. In other words, it could have been closer. Furthermore, only Billy O Sullivan and Pa Murphy, of the team, would be overage for the following year. It could be argued, too, that the injured Timmy Corkery was a serious loss to Rangers.

Tactics influenced the game as well, especially in the very early stages. Laune Rangers picked Billy O Shea at corner-forward and fellow county player, John Cronin, fell back to mark him. However, O Shea moved out the field and Cronin went with him. The result was that Cronin was able to take scoreable frees without committing himself, as well as contributing handsomely in general play and he was a very influential figure in those early stages. Billy O Shea went back into the corner subsequently but the move involving him had backfired and that had to be an early blow to the confidence of Laune Rangers (The fact that Ger O Driscoll, the South Kerry trainer, was a Garda in Killorglin, where he would have had prior knowledge of the Rangers tactics, contributed undoubtedly to the above backfire).

South Kerry owned the ball for the first twenty minutes, after which they led by 0-8 to 0-0. Then, in the 22nd minute, came a goal for Laune Rangers. One of the South Kerry players pulled down a dropping ball in front of the posts, left it slip out of his hands and there was Billy O Shea, panther-like, to send it crashing to the net. That was followed by a point from a free, courtesy of Billy O Sullivan, and suddenly the gap was down to a very manageable four points but then, in the 26^th minute, South-Kerry struck for a goal by Paul Curran, who rose unchallenged to palm the ball to the net. That was a disaster for Laune Rangers. Billy O Sullivan tried to goal from a 14 yards free at the other end. His shot actually hit the butt of the upright, but it did seem a foolish gambit at the time and when Rangers were awarded another free before halftime, he took his point. The halftime score was 1-8 to 1-2 in favour of the defending champions and in the second half they would have the benefit of the breeze.

South-Kerry tacked on a goal (John Quirke) and a point (Padraig Burns) within minutes of the restart. Thereafter it was an uphill battle for the Rangers. There was never a time when play was not hotly contested but aggro crept in midway through the second half and the referee took the names of a player from each side. The name of another Laune Rangers player went into the book shortly after that. Rangers might have been down but, most definitely, they were not out. Players like Pa Murphy, who put in a really hard hour at centre halfback, Eoin Joy, Billy O Shea, Billy O Sullivan, Anthony O Sullivan, Mike Hassett and John Doona were among those who tried to press forward at every opportunity. Rangers’ persistence and determination were to bring reward facing into the last ten minutes. Firstly, Billy O Sullivan put over a point from play and then he followed with a truly magnificent goal. Dummying his way beautifully into space, he fired a great shot to the corner of the net. The margin had then been reduced to six points (2-10 to 2-4). There were still eight minutes left to play and Rangers desperately clung to the hope that they could still salvage something. However, South-Kerry outscored them by 0-3 to 0-2 in the time remaining.

South-Kerry: Oran O Mahony (St. Mary’s), Killian Burns (Sneem), A. Riney (Sneem), Peter Riney (Sneem), John Cronin (Waterville) 0-3, 2 frees, Brendan O Shea (Waterville), Brendie Kelly (Renard), Paul Curran (Valentia) 1-0, Don Riney (Sneem), James O Shea (Waterville), Sean Pete O Sullivan (Sneem) 0-1, Peter Keane, capt. (St. Mary’s) 0-5, 2 frees, Padraig Burns (Sneem) 0-3, Dan Fitzpatrick (Dromid) 0-1, John Quirke (Foilmore) 1-1.

Laune Rangers: Andrew Doyle, Anthony O Sullivan, Adrian Hassett, Eoin Corkery, Mikey Griffin, Pa Murphy (capt.), Paudie Russell, John Doona, Mike Hassett, Eoin Joy, Derry O Sullivan, Billy O Shea (1-0), Jason Griffin (0-3), Brian Mangan, Billy O Sullivan (1-3). Subs: Timmy Linehan for B. Mangan, Kevin Jones for J. Griffin, James Hurley, Karl Griffin, Carl O Sullivan, John O Donnell, Eoin O Sullivan, Michael Lynch, Nigel Reidy, Paudie O Shea, Adrian O Connor, Stephen O Sullivan. (The team appeared differently on the programme, but lined out as above).

Ref: Tom McCarthy (Desmonds).

Bunkers Bar (Ger Counihan) sponsored meals for the team and Patrick Horgan sponsored socks for the players.

Duhallow U-21 Tournament

That was an invitation tournament.

 

Quarter-final on Mon. 17^th Aug. at Banteer: Laune Rangers 3-12; Avondhu 2-7.

The impressive scoring power of Laune Rangers throughout the game was largely the difference between those sides. Though boosted by a first minute goal from full-forward Tom McGlinchey, Avondhu found it difficult to stay with their Kerry opponents, who levelled the match with three well-taken points by the tenth minute. A great point, from an angled free, by the impressive Billy O Sullivan, gave Laune Rangers the lead after twenty minutes and the same player set up corner-forward Eoin O Sullivan for a peach of a goal just on halftime to leave the score 1-6 to 1-3 in their favour.

Rangers really went into overdrive in the third quarter. A great solo-run by Billy O Shea opened up the Avondhu defence for wing-forward Jason Griffin to rifle home an unstoppable goal from fourteen yards. Rangers took over at midfield where big John Doona was outplaying Tom Sheehan. Full-forward, Billy O Sullivan, followed with two lovely points and the game was well and truly out of Avondhu’s reach in the 50^th minute when centre-forward Eoin Joy ran through for another goal to put nine points between the sides.

Avondhu, in the competition for the first time, found the talent and subtle teamwork of the men from Killorglin too hot to handle. The standard of football was very high.

Laune Rangers: John Foley, Paudie Russell, John O Donnell, Eoin Corkery, Anthony O Sullivan, Mike Hassett, Mikey Griffin, Billy O Shea, John Doona (0-2), Derry O Sullivan (0-1), Eoin Joy (1-1), Jason Griffin (1-1), Timmy Linehan, Billy O Sullivan (0-7, 3 frees), Eoin O Sullivan (1-0). Subs: Karl Griffin for J. O Donnell, James Hurley for E. O Sullivan.

Avondhu: D. Twomey (Fermoy), J. O Connor (Fermoy), T. Twomey (Kilshannig), Paul Langford (Killavullen), P. Cummins (Glanworth), T. Browne (Glanworth), D. Higgins (Fermoy), Tom Sheehan (Doneraile), B. O Sullivan (Kilshannig) 0-1, John O Sullivan (Doneraile) 1-1, Michael O Donovan (Mallow), T. McGrath (Glanworth) 0-1, B. McCarthy (Fermoy), Tom McGlinchey (Clyda Rovers) 1-1, N. Noonan (Kilshannig) 0-1. Subs: Kevin Mahon (Glanworth) 0-2 for D. Higgins, T. Carroll (Killavullen) for N. Noonan (inj.).

Ref: Billy O Keeffe (Boherbue).

 

Semi-final on Mon. 26^th Oct. at Knocknagree: East-Kerry 3-10; Laune Rangers 2-10.

It was an excellent game, contested with championship fervour and provided fast and entertaining football. Billy O Shea and Seamus Moynihan, both of whom had played with Kerry against Donegal in London on the previous day, flew home early on Monday to take their places on their respective teams and, in fact, were marking each other. They had a tremendous tussle and both emerged with credit.

 

Co. Minor Football Championship

Selectors – Gerard Murphy (trainer), Jerome Conway and Pat Pigott.

The Minor team commenced training on Sun. 23^rd Feb. at 4.00pm, under Pat Pigott (deputising for Gerard Murphy). As the year progressed, the U-16 players Rory Corkery, John O Sullivan and Paul O Brien were pressed into action.

 

Rd. 1 on Tues. 7^th July at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 2-8; Killarney 1-3.

That was a very good performance, against opposition that was held scoreless until the last quarter. The backs were very good, with Ray Khan outstanding. Mike Hassett and Pat O Keeffe held sway at midfield. The forwards combined well, with Liam Hassett and Eamonn Foley well to the fore.

Laune Rangers: Andrew Doyle, Mark Conway, Paudie Russell, Redmond Fitzgerald, Rory Corkery, Karl Griffin, Ray Khan, Mike Hassett, Pat O Keeffe, Jerry O Brien (0-1), Liam Hassett (1-4), Eamonn Foley, Turlough Byrnes, Derry O Sullivan (1-0), Kevin Jones (0-3). Subs: Ronan Curtayne for T. Byrnes, Tony O Sullivan for E. Foley, Thomas Walsh for R. Corkery, Michael Cahillane, Derry O Donoghue, Paul O Brien.

Ref: John Murrihy (Na Gaeil).

 

Quarter-final on Tues. 21^st July at Cahersiveen: South-Kerry 0-12; Laune Rangers 2-5.

That was a pulsating ding-dong battle, which had a liberal quota of good scores, skill, passion and commitment. The big crowd was on its feet right up to the final whistle as the brave Laune Rangers lads threw everything into the attack in an attempt to salvage the contest. It was the type of game that nobody deserved to lose. It was indeed heart-warming to see two fine minor sides serve up a thrilling hour’s football. That was the second time that Rangers had lost to South-Kerry by a point in recent times. Mike Hassett was superb. Paudie Russell was mighty. Andrew Doyle did well in goals. Liam Hassett and Derry O Sullivan were the only forwards to threaten, although both played below par. Karl Griffin was the only other back to play well – many of our players were out of their depth. South-Kerry went on to win the county title.

Laune Rangers: Andrew Doyle, Mark Conway, Paudie Russell, Redmond Fitzgerald, Rory Corkery, Karl Griffin, Ray Khan, Mike Hassett (0-2), Pat O Keeffe, Jerry O Brien, Liam Hassett (2-3, 1 penalty), Eamonn Foley, Ronan Curtayne, Derry O Sullivan (capt.), Kevin Jones. Subs: Michael Cahillane for J. O Brien, Turlough Byrnes, Tony O Sullivan, Derry O Donoghue, John Purcell, Paul O Brien.

Ref: Tom McCarthy (Desmonds).

 

Co. Minor Football League

 

Rd. 1 on Tues. 17^th March at Direen: Legion 1-10; Laune Rangers 2-9.

Rangers played with the aid of a strong breeze in the first half and played very well indeed, combining ideally. At halftime, they were leading by 1-9 to 0-1. The forwards, especially Kevin Jones, Derry O Sullivan and Liam Hassett, had combined very well and Paudie Russell and Pat O Keeffe controlled midfield.

However, on the resumption, Rangers seemed to change the pattern of their play and the forwards would not release the ball, losing it on numerous occasions. That gave Legion heart and they came back strongly. In fact they almost won the game near the end, but for great defensive work by Michael Cahillane, Mark Conway, Karl Griffin, Redmond Fitzgerald, Kealon O Sullivan and, especially, Andrew Doyle. Rangers only managed a goal, by Pat O Keeffe, and a point, by Liam Hassett, in the second half.

Some of the players had played a soccer game earlier in the day – Jerry O Brien, Andrew Doyle, Derry O Sullivan, Pat O Keeffe, Karl Griffin and Tony O Sullivan – and they were unable to last the pace of the second game. Eamonn Foley and Glenn Evans, having played the soccer game, refused to travel for the football game – they walked past the bus, ignoring both players and management, as if they did not exist. Mike Hassett was doing exams in Limerick.

Laune Rangers: Andrew Doyle, Mark Conway, Michael Cahillane, Derry O Donoghue, Redmond Fitzgerald, Karl Griffin, Kealon O Sullivan, Paudie Russell, Pat O Keeffe (1-0), Turlough Byrnes (0-1), Declan Byrne (0-1), Jerry O Brien, Liam Hassett (0-3), Derry O Sullivan (1-1), Kevin Jones (0-3). Subs: Tony O Sullivan for J. O Brien, Ray Khan for T. Byrnes, John Purcell, Nicholas Bainton, Rory Corkery, Thomas Walsh.

Ref: Paudie Hickey (Gneeveguilla).

 

Rd. 4 on Fri. 3^rd April at Connolly Park: Austin Stacks 1-8; Laune Rangers 4-14.

Mike Hassett and Pat O Keeffe dominated midfield for Rangers. The halfback line of Redmond Fitzgerald, Karl Griffin and Ray Khan never gave an inch, while Mark Conway also played well in defence. Up front, Paudie Russell, Liam Hassett and Derry O Sullivan combined well.

Laune Rangers: Andrew Doyle, Mark Conway, Michael Cahillane, Derry O Donoghue, Redmond Fitzgerald, Karl Griffin Ray Khan, Mike Hassett, Pat O Keeffe (0-1), Jerry O Brien (0-3), Derry O Sullivan (2-2) Liam Hassett (0-3), Tony O Sullivan, Paudie Russell (2-1), Kevin Jones (0-3). Subs: Thomas Walsh for D. O Sullivan, John Purcell (0-1) for M. Hassett (inj.).

Ref: Michael Moriarty (Churchill).

 

Rd. 2 on Sun. 5^th April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 4-9; Desmonds 1-5.

That game had been postponed at Desmonds’ request. Rangers were well on top at midfield, where Mike Hassett played very well. Derry O Sullivan, Liam Hassett and Paudie Russell always threatened with good combination and support play. Kevin Jones again played well in the first half but over-held the ball on the resumption. The referee was very harsh on Tony O Sullivan on a few occasions, penalising him for picking the ball off the ground. Rory Corkery never really got going. Andrew Doyle was great in goals. Mark Conway started slowly but recovered well. Michael Cahillane was sound. Derry O Donoghue, having started slowly, played well. The halfback line was very sound. It was a very sporting and enjoyable game.

Laune Rangers: Andrew Doyle, Mark Conway, Michael Cahillane, Derry O Donoghue, Redmond Fitzgerald, Karl Griffin, Ray Khan, Mike Hassett (0-1), Pat O Keeffe, Rory Corkery (0-1), Derry O Sullivan (1-1), Liam Hassett (0-3), Tony O Sullivan, Paudie Russell (capt.) 1-0, Kevin Jones (1-3). Subs: Kealon O Sullivan for D. O Donoghue, John Purcell for K. Jones, Thomas Walsh for M. Conway.

Ref: Tony Falvey (Firies) – good.

 

Rd. 5 on Fri. 17^th April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers v Dingle.

Dingle said that they had notified the Co. Board that they could not play on that date, as Dingle CBS was going on a school tour to France. Laune Rangers asked them to play on Thursday night but they refused saying that they would play when they returned, if the Co. Board would allow them, or they would concede the points to Rangers, if they were not allowed to play.

 

Rd. 3 on Wed. 22^nd April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 2-11; Kerins O Rahilly’s 0-8.

That game had been postponed from 10^th April due to Confirmation in Killorglin. The result was great, considering that Mike Hassett, Paudie Russell and Kevin Jones were missing. Ray Khan was great at midfield. Liam Hassett was outstanding, getting all his scores (2-4) from play.

The sides were level, 0-5 each, at halftime. Laune Rangers approached the second half in a more workmanlike fashion and, with Rory Corkery anjd Alan O Sullivan winning the midfield battle, the forwards proceeded to add the scores. Most notable in that area were Fiachra O Donoghue and John O Sullivan. The backs settled down much better, with Thomas Walsh, Joe Hayes and John Sheehan particularly to the fore. As a result of the win, the team was in the Co. League Semi-final.

Laune Rangers: Andrew Doyle, Mark Conway, Michael Cahillane, Derry O Donoghue, Redmond Fitzgerald, Karl Griffin, Thomas Walsh, Ray Khan, Pat O Keeffe (0-3), Jerry O Brien (0-2), Derry O Sullivan, Liam Hassett (2-4), Turlough Byrnes (0-1), Declan Byrne, Rory Corkery. Subs: John O Sullivan (0-1) for T. Byrnes, Tony O Sullivan for P. O Keeffe, John Purcell, Paul O Brien, Joe Hayes.

Ref: Michael Devane (Annascaul).

 

Semi-final on Fri. 1^st May at Dingle: Gaeltacht 1-9; Laune Rangers 1-6.

Paudie Russell, Kevin Jones and Jerry O Brien were missing, due to injuries, and it was that that made the difference – even if Paudie had been there, that would have done the trick. The backs were good, except for a mix-up between Michael Cahillane and Andrew Doyle. A high ball dropped into the Rangers’ goal-mouth. Andrew never called for it, Michael backed in on top of him and the ball went into the net over their heads. The midfield was adequate, Mike Hassett was very good. Liam Hassett and Derry O Sullivan were very good, Rory Corkery tried hard but the other three forwards showed very little heart when it was needed. Rangers led at the interval by 1-3 to 0-3, Derry having got the goal.

Laune Rangers: Andrew Doyle, Mark Conway, Michael Cahillane, Derry O Donoghue, Redmond Fitzgerald, Karl Griffin, Thomas Walsh, Mike Hassett, Ray Khan, Rory Corkery, Pat O Keeffe, Liam Hassett, Turlough Byrnes, Derry O Sullivan (capt.), Eamonn Foley. Subs: Tony O Sullivan for E. Foley, John O Sullivan for T. Byrnes, John Purcell, Paul O Brien.

 

Mid-Kerry Minor Football Championship

 

Semi-final: Milltown/Castlemaine conceded to Laune Rangers.

 

Final on Sat. 28^th Nov. at Beaufort: Laune Rangers 2-9; Beaufort 0-7.

That was a superb performance from all the backs – each one excelled. Mike Hassett was outstanding at midfield. In the forwards, Liam Hassett, Rory Corkery, Paudie Russell and, to a lesser degree, Derry O Sullivan played well. Rory Corkery got the first goal and Liam Hassett got the second. Eamonn Foley was sent off with ten minutes to go, during which Rangers had to fight a rearguard action.  The fact that that was the only game that Rangers played in that competition, did very little for the promotion of football at that level in Killorglin by the Mid-Kerry Board. After the game, Michael Healy, Rúnaí Mid-Kerry Board, presented the trophy to the captain, Derry O Sullivan. The team retired to the Starlite Diner in Killorglin for a well earned meal.

Laune Rangers: Andrew Doyle, Mark Conway, Michael Cahillane, Ronan Curtayne, Redmond Fitzgerald, Karl Griffin, Ray Khan, Mike Hassett, Pat O Keeffe, Rory Corkery, Derry O Sullivan (capt.), Eamonn Foley, Liam Hassett, Paudie Russell, Kevin Jones. Subs: Derry O Donoghue for R. Curtayne (inj.), Tony O Sullivan, John Purcell, Paul O Brien, Turlough Byrnes.

Ref: Michael O Sullivan (Glenbeigh).

 

Minor Football Challenge Games

 

Sun. 8^th Nov. at Castleisland: Laune Rangers v Desmonds.

Desmonds had only 12 players and Rangers had 16. Rangers gave Desmonds 2 players and a 14-a-side game was played, with 20 minutes per half.

Laune Rangers: Andrew Doyle, Mark Conway, Michael Cahillane, Derry O Donoghue, Redmond Fitzgerald, Karl Griffin, Thomas Walsh, Paudie Russell, Rory Corkery, Liam Hassett, Eamonn Foley, Tony O Sullivan, Kevin Jones, Ronan Curtayne. Rangers gave Desmonds Ray Khan and Paul O Brien and won well. Ref: Derry Sheehan (Desmonds).

 

Sun. 15^th Nov. at Dromod: Laune Rangers 4-9; Waterville 2-12.

That was a very good game. Rangers really only played well in the second half, when their play had some maturity about it. Pat O Keeffe scored a penalty. The other goals were scored by Kevin Jones, Derry O Sullivan and Paul O Brien.

Laune Rangers: Andrew Doyle, Mark Conway, Michael Cahillane, Derry O Donoghue, Redmond Fitzgerald, Karl Griffin, Ronan Curtayne, Pat O Keeffe, Ray Khan, Paul O Brien, Rory Corkery, Eamonn Foley, Tony O Sullivan, Derry O Sullivan, Kevin Jones.

Ref: John C. O Shea (Dromod).

 

Co. U-16 Inter-Divisional Championship

Trainer/Coach – Jerome Conway.

 

Quarter-final on Sat. 26^th Sept. at Listry: Eoin Ruadh 2-11; Mid-Kerry 0-13.

Too many of the players displayed very little heart for the contest. Cormac O Malley, John Sheehan, John O Sullivan and Fergal O Brien were the exceptions to that. Rory Corkery was missing – apparently he did not know that the game was on.

Mid-Kerry: Brian Murphy (Beaufort), Donncha Curran (Laune Rangers), Raymond Clifford (Keel), Joe Hayes (Laune Rangers), Cormac O Malley (Beaufort), Thomas Walsh (Laune Rangers) capt. John Sheehan (Laune Rangers), Mícheál Foley (Beaufort), Fergal O Brien (Laune Rangers), Éanna O Malley (Beaufort), Fionán Kelliher (Milltown/Castlemaine), Michael F. Russell (Laune Rangers), Rory McGrath (Beaufort), Alan Bailey (Keel), John O Sullivan (Laune Rangers). Subs: Aidan Foley (Keel) for R. McGrath, Alan O Sullivan (Laune Rangers) for M. Russell, Mícheál Kelliher (Beaufort), Christy Breen (Beaufort), Tony Ladden (Keel), Terry Ladden (Keel), John O Sullivan (Beaufort), John A. O Sullivan (Beaufort).

Ref: Richard Fitzgerald (Listry).

 

Final: South-Kerry 2-12; Castleisland District 1-13.

 

Co. U-16 Football Championship

The U-16 team commenced training, under Jerome Conway (trainer/coach), on Sat. 22^nd Feb. at 5.00pm. There were 7 teams in Div. 1 – John Mitchels, Austin Stacks, Dr. Crokes, Legion, Kerins O Rahillys, Laune Rangers and Gaeltacht – and the top 4 teams, after the preliminary rounds, qualified for the semi-finals.

 

Rd. 1 on Wed. 24^th June at Strand Road: Kerins O Rahillys 1-13; Laune Rangers 2-5.

Rangers played well only in spots. Michael Hurley saved some good shots but he, also, make a few mistakes. The referee awarded a penalty when he picked the ball off the ground in the large parallelogram! Despite the Rangers trainer trying to explain to him that he had made a mistake, the referee would not listen. Paul O Brien was a little loose. Thomas Walsh began slowly but finished brilliantly. Pat Leahy played well. John Sheehan was great. Joe Hayes came up against a huge centre half-forward. Fergal O Brien played well and indeed improved when he was moved to midfield. Rory Corkery played his best football at centre halfback. He scored a great goal from the throw-in. Alan O Sullivan did not have a good game. Fiachra O Donoghue tried hard and took his goal chance well. John O Sullivan’s play had deteriorated. Michael Francis Russell only played in spots. Pa O Sullivan’s play had also deteriorated. Donncha Curran was fine when the ball came straight at him but when he had to run for it, well !!! Brian O Neill did his best. Colm Conway made no mistake when he came on.

Laune Rangers: Michael Hurley, Paul O Brien, Thomas Walsh, Pat Leahy, John Sheehan (capt.), Joe Hayes, Fergal O Brien, Rory Corkery, Alan O Sullivan, Fiachra O Donoghue, John O Sullivan, Michael F. Russell, Pa O Sullivan, Donncha Curran, Brian O Neill. Subs: Colm Conway for B. O Neill, Anthony Reen.

Ref: Frank Wallace (Ardfert).

 

Rd. 2 on Wed. 1^st July at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 2-13; John Mitchels 0-4.

That was a very good performance. Some players outdid themselves. Colm Conway had the best game of his life. Brian Gannon was outstanding. Fiachra O Donoghue had a great game. All the others did very well, also. Michael F. Russell and Alan O Sullivan scored the goals. Rangers were missing Rory Corkery, who was in Limerick with 25 other Kerry U-16 players for a few days’ coaching course.

Laune Rangers: Michael Hurley, Colm Conway, Thomas Walsh, Pat Leahy, John Sheehan, Joe Hayes, Brian Gannon, Fergal O Brien, Alan O Sullivan, Fiachra O Donoghue, John O Sullivan, Michael F. Russell, Pa O Sullivan, Donncha Curran, Brian O Neill. Sub: Paul O Brien (late arrival) for B. O Neill.

Ref: Michael Murphy (Milltown/Castlemaine).

 

Rd. 3 on Wed. 8^th July at Connolly Park: Austin Stack’s 4-12; Laune Rangers 2-3.

Rangers were well beaten. They had two great goaling chances but the Stacks’ goalkeeper saved well from John O Sullivan and Paul O Brien.

Laune Rangers: Michael Hurley, Colm Conway, Thomas Walsh, Joe Hayes, John Sheehan, Rory Corkery, Pat Leahy, Alan O Sullivan, Fergal O Brien, Fiachra O Donoghue (0-1), John O Sullivan, Michael F. Russell (0-2), Pa O Sullivan, Donncha Curran (2-0), Paul O Brien. Subs: Alan O Sullivan (Tullig) for C. Conway, Aidan McGuckian for A. O Sullivan, Anthony Reen.

Ref: Albert O Sullivan (Kerins O Rahillys).

 

Rd. 4 on Wed. 15^th July at Direen: Legion 1-7; Laune Rangers 1-7.

Laune Rangers should have won that game well but they missed too many chances. Donncha Curran and Fiachra O Donoghue missed an open goal each. The halftime score was 1-3 each.

Laune Rangers: Michael Hurley, Paul O Brien, Thomas Walsh, Joe Hayes, Pat Leahy, John Sheehan, Alan O Sullivan (Tullig), Rory Corkery, Fergal O Brien, Brian O Neill, Alan O Sullivan (1-1), Michael F. Russell (0-3),  Fiachra O Donoghue (0-2), Donncha Curran (0-1), John O Sullivan. Subs: Aidan McGuckian for B. O Neill, Colm Conway.

 

Rd. 5 on Wed. 22^nd July at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 1-16; Dr. Crokes 1-7.

Rangers played against a strong breeze in the first half and were 0-4 to 0-6 in arrears at the break. They owned the ball in the second half and put some good moves together ending in some well-taken scores. All the team played well, with Thomas Walsh and Joe Hayes particularly good.

Laune Rangers: Michael Hurley, Paul O Brien, Thomas Walsh, Joe Hayes, Pat Leahy, John Sheehan, Alan O Sullivan (Tullig), Rory Corkery (0-2), Fergal O Brien, Aidan McGuckian, Alan O Sullivan (1-1), Michael F. Russell (0-7), Fiachra O Donoghue (0-1), Donncha Curran (0-2), John O Sullivan (0-2). Subs: Brian O Neill (0-1) for A. McGuckian, Colm Conway for F. O Donoghue.

Ref: Michael Murphy (Milltown/Castlemaine).

 

Rd. 6 on Sun. 5^th Aug. at Killorglin: Laune Rangers w/o; Gaeltacht.

Gaeltacht rang to say that they did not have a team and conceded the points.

 

Semi-final on Wed. 19^th Aug. at Castleisland: Kerins O Rahilly’s 2-14; Laune Rangers 0-8.

Rangers needed to play in top gear to have any chance, but, as it was, some of the players hardly played at all. Michael Hurley played well in goals. Paul O Brien played terribly badly. Thomas Walsh was Rangers’ man-of-the-match, Joe Hayes settled well after a slow start. The halfback line of Alan O Sullivan, John Sheehan and Brian Gannon played very well. Rory Corkery and Fergal O Brien more than held their own at midfield and supplied good ball to the forwards. John O Sullivan was terribly bad in the first half but improved when moved to halfback in the second half. Alan O Sullivan began well but faded and eventually injured his knee. Michael F. Russell began well but got progressively bad. Fiachra O Donoghue was Rangers forward-of-the-match, never giving up and showing great heart. Both Donncha Curran and Pa O Sullivan were very bad. Neither of the substitutes impressed.

Laune Rangers: Michael Hurley, Paul O Brien, Thomas Walsh, Joe Hayes, Alan O Sullivan (Tullig), John Sheehan (capt.), Brian Gannon, Rory Corkery, Fergal O Brien, John O Sullivan, Alan O Sullivan, Michael F. Russell, Fiachra O Donoghue, Donncha Curran, Pa O Sullivan. Subs: Brian O Neill for P. O Sullivan, Aidan McGuckian for A. O Sullivan, Colm Conway for P. O Brien.

Ref: Tom McCarthy (Desmonds) – good.

 

Co. Final on Sun. 30^th Aug. at Austin Stack Park: Kerins O Rahillys 2-11; Austin Stacks 3-5.

 

Mid-Kerry U-16 Football Championship

Laune Rangers, Milltown/Castlemaine, Beaufort and Keel played players that were strictly under sixteen years of age. Glenbeigh/Glencar and Cromane were allowed to play players that were six months older.

 

Rd. 1 on Mon. 13^th April at Cromane: Laune Rangers w/o; Cromane scr.

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

 

Rd. 2 on Mon. 20^th April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 0-14; Beaufort 0-6.

Rangers played with the aid of the breeze in the first half but played terribly poorly. The backs were hesitant, the midfield were not convincing and the forwards were hanging back, waiting for things to happen. At halftime the score was 0-5 each. The attitude changed in the second half and the team played much better. The backs tightened and the opposition only scored one point. The midfielders held sway and the forwards responded to the amount of ball that they were given. John O Sullivan came to the ‘40’, where he played very well. Fiachra O Donoghue scored 3 points from the corner.

Laune Rangers: Michael Hurley, Paul O Brien, Thomas Walsh, Pat Leahy, John Sheehan, Joe Hayes, Paudie Finnegan, Rory Corkery, Alan O Sullivan, Fiachra O Donoghue, Brian Gannon, Michael F. Russell, Pa O Sullivan, Donncha Curran, John O Sullivan. Subs: Brian O Neill, Colm Conway, Nelius Lynch, Nigel Corkery, Anthony Reen.

Ref: Michael Murphy (Milltown/Castlemaine).

 

Rd. 3 on Mon. 27^th April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 9-19; Milltown/Castlemaine 2-2.

That was a much better performance, particularly in the first half, when the ball was delivered beautifully to the full-forward line and the other forwards backing up the man in possession. Rangers dominated in every sector of the field.

Laune Rangers: Michael Hurley, Colm Conway, Thomas Walsh, Paul O Brien, John Sheehan, Joe Hayes, Pat Leahy, Rory Corkery, Alan O Sullivan, Brian Gannon, Michael F. Russell, Brian O Neill, Fiachra O Donoghue, John O Sullvan, Pa O Sullivan. Subs: Paudie Finnegan for M.F. Russell, Donncha Curran for P. O Sullivan, Aidan McGuckian for B. Gannon, Nigel Corkery for P. Leahy, Nelius Lynch for F. O Donoghue, Anthony Reen for J. O Sullivan. (The extra substitutions were made with the permission of the management of the Milltown/Castlemaine team).

Ref: Johnny Sheehan (Keel).

 

Rd. 4 on Mon. 4^th May at Keel: Keel 0-8; Laune Rangers 3-6.

Rangers did not play well as a team. They started reasonably well but then their play deteriorated. Thay could only manage 2 points in the second half. Admittedly, the pitch was bad but that did not account for the lacklustre performances of Michael F. Russell, Brian Gannon, John O Sullivan and Pa O Sullivan. Only Joe Hayes and Pat Leahy of the backline played well and Alan O Sullivan was the better of the midfielders.

Laune Rangers: Michael Hurley, Colm Conway, Paudie Finnegan, Paul O Brien, John Sheehan, Joe Hayes, Pat Leahy, Rory Corkery, Alan O Sullivan, Fiachra O Donoghue, Brian Gannon, Michael F. Russell, Pa O Sullivan, Donncha Curran, John O Sullivan. Subs: Brian O Neill for F. O Donoghue, Fergal O Brien for C. Conway, Alan O Sullivan (Tullig), Nelius Lynch, Nigel Corkery, Aidan McGuckian, Anthony Reen.

Ref: Pat Pigott (Laune Rangers), as the appointed referee failed to appear.

 

Rd. 5 on Mon. 11^th May at Glenbeigh: Glenbeigh/Glencar scr; Laune Rangers w/o.

Glenbeigh/Glencar conceded the points before the Rangers travelled.

 

Final on Fri. 5^th June at Glenbeigh: Laune Rangers 2-8; Beaufort 1-5.

The Rangers’ backs were great, with John Sheehan, Thomas Walsh and Paudie Finnegan particularly to the fore. Rory Corkery played well at midfield and his partner, Alan O Sullivan, was superb. In fairness to the forwards, they won the ball every time but their finishing was less than good. Having played with the breeze in the first half, Rangers led by 1-4 to 0-2 at the interval. Donncha Curran scored the goal. Fergal O Brien and the Beaufort centre half-forward were sent off in the first half.

A terrible mistake by Michael Hurley allowed Beaufort in for goal to draw the game with 15 minutes to go. That score seemed to rally Rangers and they attacked relentlessly but drove wide on many occasions. Eventually, Pa O Sullivan struck for a goal and the Rangers ran out winners. It was a very competitive game and, though the Rangers did not play well, they still had the fitness to finish strongly. Essentially, it was a good team performance.

Laune Rangers: Michael Hurley, Paul O Brien, Thomas Walsh, Paudie Finnegan, Alan O Sullivan (Tullig), Joe Hayes, John Sheehan (capt.), Rory Corkery, Alan O Sullivan, Brian Gannon, John O Sullivan, Michael F. Russell, Pa O Sullivan, Donncha Curran, Fergal O Brien. Subs: Pat Leahy, Fiachra O Donoghue, Brian O Neill, Colm Conway, Aidan McGuckian, Nigel Corkery, Anthony Reen.

Ref: Michael O Sullivan (Glenbeigh) – good.

The following were U-15 years of age: M. Hurley, P. O Brien, P. Finnegan, J. Hayes, J. Sheehan, A. O Sullivan, B. Gannon, J. O Sullivan, M. Russell, P. O Sullivan, F. O Brien, P. Leahy, N. Corkery, A. Reen.

 

U-15 Football

This was a knockout competition, usually played at the end of the year. Coach/Trainer – Jerome Conway.

 

Rd. 1: Laune Rangers defeated Glenflesk.

 

Quarter-final on Fri. 30^th Oct. at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 1-9; Austin Stack’s 3-10.

This was a tough, uncompromising game. Austin Stack’s had obviously prepared well and trained hard. The Rangers preparations were less than satisfactory. Nevertheless, they matched the visitors in most departments. The teams were level with ten minutes to play and Rangers had the opportunity of going into the lead but they fluffed it. Stack’s retaliated and scored a goal. The Rangers backs were superb and the midfield pair was great. Most of the forwards played great stuff. The referee made some bad mistakes against the home side and when he was approached by the Rangers coach, he blamed the bright sunlight for not being able to see properly!!

Laune Rangers: Michael Hurley, Paul O Brien, Pat Leahy, Owen O Connell, John Sheehan, Joe Hayes, Billy O Mahony, Fergal O Brien, Alan O Sullivan, Brian Gannon, Michael F. Russell, Nigel Corkery, David Lynch, John O Sullivan, Pa O Sullivan. Subs: Johnny Lynch (late arrival) for N. Corkery, Anthony Reen, Maurice Sheehan, Kevin O Connor.

Ref: Albert O Sullivan (Kerins O Rahilly’s).

 

Final: Austin Stacks 4-11; Kilcummin 1-1.

 

Co. U-14 Football Championship Div. 1

The U-14 squad commenced training on Sat. 29^th Feb. under Noel O Mahony (Coach/Trainer). There were 6 teams in Div. 1 – Austin Stacks, Kerins O Rahillys, Dr. Crokes, Laune Rangers, John Mitchels and Kilcummin – and the top 4 teams after the preliminary rounds qualified for the semi-finals.

 

Rd. 1 on Wed. 1^st April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 5-12; John Mitchel’s 0-4.

Laune Rangers: Ross Breen, Owen Ferris, Podge Foley, Brendan Fitzgerald, Kevin O Connor, Maurice Sheehan, Simon Ferris, Johnny Lynch, Shane Harmon, Pat Sheehan, Owen O Connell (capt.), Garrath Sheehan, Paul Russell, Dermot Murphy, Tony Lyons. Subs: Enda Clifford for S. Ferris, Cathal Brown for P. Russell, John Falvey for T. Lyons, Terence Houlihan, Morgan Foley, Michael Costello, Noel Purcell, John Paul Murphy.

 

Rd. 2 on Wed. 8^th April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 3-4; Kerins O Rahilly’s 1-8.

Laune Rangers: Ross Breen, Owen Ferris, Podge Foley, Brendan Fitzgerald, Kevin O Connor, Maurice Sheehan, Enda Clifford, Johnny Lynch, Shane Harmon, Darragh O Sullivan, Owen O Connell, Garrath Sheehan, Tony Lyons, Dermot Murphy, Pat Sheehan. Subs: Paul Russell for G. Sheehan, Kevin Cahillane, Billy O Mahony, John Paul Murphy, Michael Griffin (Ownagarry), Simon Ferris, Morgan Foley.

 

Rd. 3 on Thurs. 16^th April at Kilcummin: Kilcummin 5-12; Laune Rangers 2-6.

Podge Foley was outstanding, while Pa and Garrath Sheehan also played well.

Laune Rangers: Ross Breen, Morgan Foley, Podge Foley, Brendan Fitzgerald, Owen Ferris, Maurice Sheehan, Enda Clifford, Johnny Lynch, Owen O Connell, Pa Sheehan, Shane Harmon, Billy O Mahony, Tony Lyons, Kevin O Connor, Dermot Murphy. Subs: Garrath Sheehan for T. Lyons, Robert Moriarty for D. Murphy, Sean Costello for M. Foley, Kevin Cahillane, John Moriarty, Cathal Browne, John Paul Murphy.

 

Rd. 4 on Wed. 22^nd April at Connolly Park: Austin Stack’s 1-9; Laune Rangers 1-9.

That was a great result. Podge Foley was great. Unfortunately, Darragh O Sullivan broke one of his legs in a bad tackle.

Laune Rangers: Ross Breen, Sean Costello, Podge Foley, Brendan Fitzgerald, Owen Ferris, Maurice Sheehan, Enda Clifford, Johnny Lynch, Owen O Connell, Billy O Mahony, Darragh O Sullivan, Michael Griffin, Pa Sheehan, Shane Harmon, Kevin O Connor. Subs: Garrath Sheehan for M. Griffin, Dermot Murphy for B. O Mahony, Paul Russelll for G. Sheehan, Kevin Cahillane, Tony Lyons, Morgan Foley, Robert Moriarty, John Moriarty, John P. Murphy.

 

Rd. 5 on Mon. 27^th April at Killarney: Dr. Croke’s 2-6; Laune Rangers 2-7.

Having played with the aid of a strong wind in the first half, Laune Rangers were 1-1 to 0-3 in arrears at the break and looked to be in trouble. However, Morgan Foley and Dermot Murphy scored a goal each in the second half to give them the win and a place in the Co. Semi-final.

Laune Rangers: Ross Breen, Sean Costello, Podge Foley, Brendan Fitzgerald, Owen Ferris, Maurice Sheehan, Enda Clifford, Johnny Lynch, Owen O Connell, Billy O Mahony, John Moriarty, Kevin O Connor, Pa Sheehan, Shane Harmon, Morgan Foley. Subs: Garrath Sheehan and Dermot Murphy (both played).

 

Semi-final on Wed. 29^th April at Milltown: Laune Rangers v Austin Stack’s.

The game could not be played due to the condition of the pitch.

 

Semi-final on Thurs. 7^th May at Listry: Austin Stack’s 1-12; Laune Rangers 0-9.

Although the score-line would suggest a comfortable win for Stacks, they lived dangerously for long periods. Playing with the aid of the wind in the first half, Rangers laid siege to the Stacks goal and were unlucky with some close calls. The writing was on the wall when the teams retired at halftime on the score of 0-5 each. In the second half, Stacks went ahead and were leading by two points when Rangers again got a grip around the middle of the field and only a brilliant save by the Tralee goalkeeper kept them at bay.

Laune Rangers: Ross Breen, Sean Costello, Podge Foley, Simon Ferris, Owen Ferris, Maurice Sheehan, Enda Clifford, Johnny Lynch, Owen O Connell (capt.), Morgan Foley, John Moriarty, Pa Sheehan, Shane Harmon, Dermot Murphy, Kevin O Connor. Subs: Paul Russell, Garrath Sheehan, Billy O Mahony (all played), Kevin Cahillane, Tony Lyons, Robert Moriarty, John Paul Murphy.

Ref: Michael Murphy (Milltown).

 

Co. Final on Fri. 15^th May at Currow: Kilcummin 2-10; Austin Stacks 0-14.

 

Co. U-14 Football Championship Div. 7

Coach/Trainer – Pierce Prendiville. Selector – Sean Moriarty.

Rd. 1 on Sat. 4^th April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers B 5-2; Dr. Croke’s B 1-6.

Laune Rangers B: Kieran Leahy, Kevin Harmon, Morgan Foley, Cathal Brown, Sean Costello, Enda Clifford (capt.), Billy O Mahony, Michael Griffin (Ownagarry), John Moriarty, Noel Purcell, Darragh O Sullivan, Robert Moriarty, Kevin Cahillane, Terence Houlihan, John Paul Murphy. Subs: Anthony Clifford, Enda Grandfield, Jesse Griffin (all played), Karl Falvey, John Gorman, Florence McCarthy, Denis O Connor.

Ref: Noel O Mahony (Laune Rangers).

 

Rd. 2 on Sat. 11^th April at Kilcummin: Kilcummin B 2-3; Laune Rangers B 3-12.

Laune Rangers B: Kieran Leahy, Kevin Harmon, Morgan Foley, Fergus Clifford, John Moriarty, Enda Clifford, Sean Costello, Billy O Mahony, Darragh O Sullivan, Enda Grandfield, Terence Houlihan, Robert Moriarty, Kevin Cahillane, Jesse Griffin, John P. Murphy. Subs: John Falvey for J. Griffin, Kevin Falvey for J.P. Murphy, Michael Griffin for F. Clifford, Noel Purcell.

Ref: Pierce Prendiville (Laune Rangers).

 

Rd. 3 on Sat. 18^th April at Connolly Park: Laune Rangers B v Austin Stack’s B.

Rangers travelled but Stack’s did not have a team.

 

Semi-final on Sat. 13^th June at Killorglin: Laune Rangers B 0-12; Kilcummin B 1-5.

Laune Rangers: Kieran Leahy, Kevin Harmon, Morgan Foley, Cathal Brown, Sean Costello, Enda Clifford, Fergus Clifford, Gerard Purcell, John Moriarty, Enda Grandfield, John Falvey, Robert Moriarty, Kevin Cahillane, Terence Houlihan, John Paul Murphy. Subs: Billy O Mahony for S. Costello, Karl Falvey for J.P. Murphy, Jamie Cahillane.

Ref: Michael Murphy (Milltown/Castlemaine).

 

Final on Sat. 20^th June at Beaufort: Legion B 3-12; Laune Rangers B 2-12.

The team had to be rearranged because Morgan Foley had gone on holidays. The team played well and were unlucky to lose. Robert Moriarty scored a great goal and Kevin Cahillane scored 1-2.

Laune Rangers: Kieran Leahy, Kevin Harmon, Enda Clifford, cathal Brown, Sean Costello, John Moriarty, Fergus Clifford, Gerard Purcell, Billy O Mahony, Enda Grandfield, Kevin Cahillane, Robert Moriarty, Terence Houlihan, Michael Griffin, John Falvey. Subs: Karl Falvey, John Paul Murphy, Jamie Cahillane, Denis O Connor.

 

Mid-Kerry U-14 Football Championship

 

Rd. 1 on Mon. 18^th May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 1-9; Beaufort 0-7.

Laune Rangers: Ross Breen, Sean Costello, Podge Foley, Simon Ferris, Owen Ferris, Maurice Sheehan, Enda Clifford, Johnny Lynch, Kevin O Connor, Paul Russell, Owen O Connell (capt.), Pa Sheehan, Kevin Cahillane, Shane Harmon, Dermot Murphy. Subs: Garrath Sheehan for K. Cahillane, Tony Lyons for P. Russell, John Moriarty for D. Murphy.

Ref: Frank Walsh (Cromane).

 

Rd. 2 on Mon. 25^th May at Milltown: Milltown/Castlemaine 2-6; Laune Rangers 3-12.

Laune Rangers: Ross Breen, Sean Costello, Podge Foley, Simon Ferris, Owen Ferris, Maurice Sheehan, John Moriarty, Owen O Connell, Johnny Lynch, Pa Sheehan, Shane Harmon, Enda Clifford, Paul Russell, Dermot Murphy, Kevin O Connor. Subs: Garrath Sheehan for P. Russell, Morgan Foley for D. Murphy, Billy O Mahony, Kevin Cahillane, Robert Moriarty.

 

Rd. 3 on Mon. 1^st June at Glenbeigh: Glenbeigh/Glencar 2-5; Laune Rangers 1-15.

Laune Rangers: Ross Breen, Morgan Foley, Podge Foley, Simon Ferris, Owen Ferris, Maurice Sheehan, John Moriarty, Owen O Connell, Johnny Lynch, Sean Costello, Dermot Murphy, Enda Clifford, Pa Sheehan, Shane Harmon, Kevin O Connor. Subs: Garrath Sheehan for M. Foley, Paul Russell for D. Murphy, Tony Lyons for S. Harmon, Kevin Cahillane, Billy O Mahony, Robert Moriarty, Cathal Brown.

 

Rd. 4 on Mon. 8^th June at Cromane: Cromane 1-5; Laune Rangers 5-17.

Laune rangers: Ross Breen, Morgan Foley, Podge Foley, Simon Ferris, Owen ferris, Maurice Sheehan, John Moriarty, Johnny Lynch, Owen O Connell, Dermot Murphy, Kevin O Connor, Enda Clifford, Paul Russell, Shane Harmon, Pa Sheehan. Subs: Garrath Sheehan for O. O Connell, Tony Lyons for J. Lynch, Robert Moriarty for P. Sheehan, Cathal Brown for K. O Connor, Kevin Cahillane for P. Foley, Billy O Mahony for O. Ferris, Michael Griffin for J. Moriarty.

The extra substitutes were allowed play by the consent of the management of the Cromane team.

 

Rd. 5 on Mon. 15^th June at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 3-11; Keel 0-11.

Laune Rangers: Dermot Murphy, Sean Costello, Podge Foley, Simon Ferris, Owen Ferris, Maurice Sheehan, John Moriarty, Owen O Connell, Johnny Lynch, Pa Sheehan, Gerard Purcell, Enda Clifford, Shane Harmon, Kevin O Connor, Robert Moriarty. Subs: Paul Russell for R. Moriarty, Tony Lyons for E. Clifford, Morgan Foley for G. Purcell, Kevin Cahillane, Cathal Brown.

 

Final on Mon. 13^th July at Milltown: Laune Rangers 4-5; Keel 1-5.

Rangers played with the breeze in the first half and it took them a long time to overcome a very good and gallant Keel team. Owen O Connell kicked a few lovely points from play and frees. Brendan Fitzgerald, Enda Clifford and Maurice Sheehan made some dashing clearances. A few minutes before halftime the crucial score came. After good work by Kevin O Connor and Sean Costello, Johnny Lynch sent a lovely pass to Gerard Purcell and the tall full-forward rattled the net to leave the halftime score at 1-3 to 0-2 in favour of the Rangers.

In the second half, Keel attacked strongly for the first fifteen minutes and scored three more points. Ross Breen made a wonderful save and Podge Foley, Simon Ferris, Owen Ferris and all the backs defended well to deny Keel any more scores. Rangers then went back on the attack and Johnny Lynch and Pa Sheehan scored lovely points. The winners gave a skilful display in the second half and scored three goals in the last ten minutes per Shane Harmon, Garrath Sheehan and Sean Costello. Paul Russell, Tony Lyons and Dermot Murphy played their parts in these scores. Also outstanding for the Rangers were Kevin O Connor and Owen O Connell, who played a captain’s part in the victory.

Laune Rangers: Ross Breen, Simon Ferris, Podge Foley, Brendan Fitzgerald, Owen Ferris, Maurice Sheehan, Enda Clifford, Johnny Lynch, Owen O Connell (capt.), Pa Sheehan, Gerard Purcell, Sean Costello, Dermot Murphy, Shane Harmon, Kevin O Connor. Subs: Garrath Sheehan for D. Murphy, Tony Lyons for S. Harmon, Paul Russell for S. Costello, Morgan Foley, Cathal Brown, Kevin Cahillane, Michael Griffin, Billy O Mahony, Robert Moriarty and John Moriarty. Darragh O Sullivan, who had a broken leg, was unable to play in the final.

 

Austin Stacks U-13 Football Tournament

 

Sat. 3^rd Oct. in Connolly Park:

Rd. 1: Na Piarsaigh, Cork 2-8; Laune Rangers 1-5

Rd. 2: Laune Rangers 1-10; Desmonds 0-4.

Rd. 3: Austin Stack’s 1-10; Laune Rangers 1-7.

Laune Rangers Panel: Ross Breen, Karl Falvey, Kevin Harmon, John Moriarty, Owen Ferris, Brendan Fitzgerald, Bob Foley, Cathal Browne, Pa Sheehan, John Ahern, Evan Healy, Garrath Sheehan, Enda Grandfield, Jonathan Griffin, Jamie Cahillane, Kevin Cahillane.

 

Co. U-12 Football Championship

There were eight teams in the division – Austin Stacks, Kerins O Rahillys, Laune Rangers, Gaeltacht, John Mitchels, Legion, Kilcummin and Dr. Crokes. The top team, after the league rounds, was declared the winner. Trainer/coach – James Ferris.

 

Rd. 1 on Wed. 6^th May at Strand Road: Kerins O Rahilly’s 5-9; Laune Rangers 2-6.

From the throw-in, Cian Foley kicked the ball the wrong way and scored an own goal. However, Rangers recovered and fought back with some great displays of football and were level, 2-4 each, at the interval. Whilst Rangers had over 50% of the play in the second half, their finishing was very poor and only added two points to their total in that time. O Rahilly’s were much more accurate and piled on the pressure to add three further goals to their total. Jonathan Griffin played very well for Laune Rangers.

Laune Rangers: Fergal O Donoghue, Noel Clifford, Cian Evans, Tom Crowley, Paul Sheehan, Paul James Brown, Robert Coffey, Cian Foley, Robert Foley (capt.), Evan Healy, Jonathan Griffin, John Edward Murphy, Aidan O Connor, John Ahern, Darragh Burns. Subs: Seamus Galvin for E. Healy, Brian Curran for P. Sheehan, Chris McGillycuddy, Daniel Moriarty, Mark Poff.

 

Rd. 2 on Sat. 16^th May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 5-15; Legion 1-1.

Laune Rangers: Fergal O Donoghue, Noel Clifford, Cian Evans, Tom Crowley, Paul Sheehan, Paul Browne, Robert Coffey, Cian Foley, Robert Foley, John Ahern, Jonathan Griffin, John Edward Murphy, Evan Healy, Paul Costello, Aidan O Connor.

 

Rd. 3 on Wed. 20^th May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 0-12; Gaeltacht 2-3.

Laune Rangers: Michael McGillycuddy, Noel Clifford, Cian Evans, Tom Crowley, Paul Sheehan, Paul Browne, Robert Coffey, Cian Foley, Robert Foley, John Edward Murphy, Jonathan Griffin, John Ahern, Evan Healy, Paul Costello, Aidan O Connor.

 

Rd. 4 on Wed. 27^th May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 2-1; Austin Stacks 2-12.

Laune Rangers: Michael McGillycuddy, Noel Clifford, Cian Evans, Tom Crowley, Paul Sheehan, Paul Brown, Robert Coffey, Cian Foley, Robert Foley, John E. Murphy, Jonathan Griffin, John Ahern, Seamus Galvin, Paul Costello, Aidan O Connor.

 

Rd. 5 on Wed. 3^rd June at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 3-11; John Mitchel’s 2-3.

The team showed a vast improvement on the game with Austin Stacks a week earlier. The forwards, especially Paul Costello, played extremely well.

Laune Rangers: Michael McGillycuddy, Evan Healy, Cian Evans, Tom Crowley, Paul Sheehan, Paul Browne, Robert Coffey, Cian Foley, Robert Foley, John Ahern, Jonathan Griffin, John E. Murphy, Aidan O Connor, Paul Costello, Seamus Galvin.

 

Rd. 6 on Wed. 10^th June at Killarney: Dr. Croke’s 2-5; Laune Rangers 8-18.

The forwards, especially Paul Costello, played extremely well.

Laune Rangers: Michael McGillycuddy, Evan Healy, Cian Evans, Tom Crowley, Paul Sheehan, Paul Browne, Robert Coffey, Cian Foley, Robert Foley, John Ahern, Jonathan Griffin, John E. Murphy, Aidan O Connor, Paul Costello, Andrew O Reilly.

 

Rd. 7 on Wed. 17^th June at Kilcummin: Kilcummin 1-8; Laune Rangers 0-7.

Laune Rangers played with the aid of a gale force wind in the first half, after which they led by 0-7 to 0-1. An easy goal for Kilcummin in the final minutes decided the issue.

Laune Rangers: Michael McGillycuddy, Noel Clifford, Tom Crowley, Geoffrey O Mahony, Paul Sheehan, Paul Browne, Robert Coffey, Cian Foley, Robert Foley, ,Evan Healy, Jonathan Griffin, John E. Murphy, Aidan O Connor, Paul Costello, Seamus Galvin.

 

Co. U-12 Champions – Austin Stacks. Runners-up Kerins O Rahillys/Kilcummin.

 

Co. U-12B Football Championship

Coaches/Trainers – Patsy Joy and Bertie Houlihan.

 

Rd. 1 on Sun. 17^th May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers B 5-13; Kerins O Rahilly’s B 0-2.

 

Rd. 2 on Sat. 23^rd May at Connolly Park: Austin Stack’s B 3-11; Laune Rangers B 3-9.

Laune Rangers: Michael McGillycuddy, William Byrne, Paul Costello, Mark Poff, Brian Houlihan, Patrick Galvin, Kevin Poff, Harry Bawden, David Marmion, Seamus Galvin, Brian Curran, Daniel Moriarty, Kieran Woods, Chris McGillycuddy, Barry O Sullivan.

 

Rd. 3 on Sat. 6^th June at Killorglin: Laune Rangers B 2-7; Tarbert B 1-10.

Rd. 4 on Sat. 27^th June at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ w/o; Dr. Crokes ‘B’ scr.

Pat Finnegan of Finnegan Jewellers sponsored a meal for the team, as that was the end of their campaign.

 

Co. U-12B Champions – Austin Stacks ‘B’. Runners-up – Laune Rangers/Kilcummin.

 

Mid-Kerry U-12 Football Championship

 

Rd. 1 on Mon. 7^th Sept. at Milltown: Milltown/Castlemaine 2-9; Laune Rangers 7-7.

The final score does not tell the full story, as Milltown gave a fine display. Rangers were struggling to hold on to a four points lead with eight minutes left to play, but they put in a mighty finish to win well. The fullback line was very good. Tom Crowley, Trevor Gannon, Seamus Galvin and John Edward Murphy were very good. Robert Foley was sent off.

Laune Rangers: Fergal O Donoghue, Noel Clifford, Cian Foley, Cian Evans, Geoffrey O Mahony, Tom Crowley, Paul Browne, Robert Foley, John Ahern, Aidan O connor, Jonathan Griffin, John E. Murphy, Trevor Gannon, Paul Costello, Seamus Galvin. Subs: Michael McGillycuddy for F. O Donoghue.

 

Rd. 2 on Mon. 28^th Sept. at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 3-12; Glenbeigh/Glencar 2-11.

A good attendance witnessed some great football. Rangers played against a strong breeze in the first half and trailed by 2-10 to 2-7 at the interval. The switch of Trevor Gannon to midfield, with Tom Crowley going to centre halfback, allowed Rangers to gain control and they ran out worthy winners. John Ahern, Trevor Gannon and John E. Murphy were very good. Glenbeigh/Glencar were allowed to play players of 12.5 years, a six months advantage.

Laune Rangers: Fergal O Donoghue, Noel Clifford, Cian Foley, Cian Evans, Geoffrey O Mahony, Trevor Gannon (0-2), Paul Browne, Tom Crowley (0-1), John Ahern (0-1), Evan Healy (0-1), Jonathan Griffin (1-2), John E. Murphy (0-2), Aidan O Connor, Paul Costello (2-2), Seamus Galvin. Subs: Brian Houlihan, Paul Sheehan, Darragh Burns (0-1) (all played).

 

Final on Sun. 8^th Nov. at Beaufort: Laune Rangers 3-5; Glenbeigh/Glencar 1-5.

This was a closely contested match. Glenbeigh/Glencar had the advantage of being able to play players that were up to six months overage. In the first half, Laune Rangers played against a strong breeze and Glenbeigh were able to close down the forwards. Glenbeigh had plenty of possession but failed to capitalise on their chances. A good goal by Jonathan Griffin gave Rangers an interval lead of 2-2 to 1-2.

In the second half, Laune Rangers played better football with points from Paul Costello and Trevor Gannon, who played very well in the closing minutes. Great credit went to the fullback line of Noel Clifford, Cian Foley and Cian Evans, who contained pressure all through the game. Michael McGillycuddy, goalkeeper, brought off some great saves. The midfield pair of Bob Foley and John Ahern played very well all through. The forwards were never allowed freedom by a strong Glenbeigh defence. John E. Murphy had a great second half when he played as a third midfielder. Trevor Gannon and Jonathan Griffin played their parts well. Tom Crowley played a captain’s part at centre halfback. Substitute, Brian Houlihan, played excellently at wing back and contributed greatly to the victory.

The game had been scheduled for the previous Sunday but had to be cancelled because of the death of John Evans’ mother-in-law. Glenbeigh then insisted that the game had to be played at 3pm on Sunday 8^th Nov., despite the fact that Rangers offered to play the game at any time on Sat. 7^th Nov. or any other time on Sun. 8^th Nov. in order to avoid a clash with the Mid-Kerry Senior Semi-final, Laune Rangers versus Keel. Mick O Toole, Glenbeigh, stated that the U-12 final had nothing to do with the senior semi-final.

Laune Rangers: Michael McGillycuddy, Noel Clifford, Cian Foley, Cian Evans, Geoffrey O Mahony, Tom Crowley (capt.), Paul James Browne, Bob Foley (1-2), John Ahern, Trevor Gannon (0-2), Jonathan Griffin (2-0), John E. Murphy, Aidan O Connor, Paul Costello (0-1), Evan Healy. Subs: Brian Houlihan (played), Darragh Burns, Seamus Galvin, Paul Sheehan, Andrew O Reilly, Daniel Moriarty.

Ref: Frank Walsh (Cromane) – very good.

Anthony Corkery Memorial Tournament (U-12):

That was the inaugural year of that tournament and the cup was called after former Laune Rangers player, Anthony Corkery, who had been tragically killed in a road accident some years previously.

 

Rd. 1 on Wed. 19^th Aug. at Kilcummin: Kilcummin 3-11; Laune Rangers 3-11.

Laune Rangers led by 3 points with 10 minutes left to play. Then Kilcummin rallied and sent ahead by 5 points. Robert Foley got a goal to give the Rangers a chance and two further points levelled the score. John Ahern was the outstanding player on view.

Laune Rangers: Fergal O Donoghue, Noel Clifford, Cian Foley, Paul Sheehan, Cian Evans, Tom Crowley, Paul Browne, Robert Foley (1-3), John Ahern (0-1), Aidan O Connor, Jonathan Griffin (0-1), Trevor Gannon (1-3), Darragh Burns (1-0), Paul Costello (0-3), John E. Murphy. Sub: Seamus Galvin.

 

Rd. 2 on Fri. 28^th Aug. at Currow: Currow 3-6; Laune Rangers 4-12.

Laune Rangers were slow to settle. Currow played very well. However, after ten minutes, Rangers took the lead and held it to the end. John Ahern had a superb game at midfield. Others to play well were Geoffrey O Mahony, Cian Evans, Brian Houlihan in defence and Paul Costello, Seamus Galvin and Evan Healy in attack.

Laune Rangers: Michael McGillycuddy, Noel Clifford, Cian Evans, Geoffrey O Mahony, Brian Houlihan, Tom Crowley, Paul Browne, Robert Foley, John Ahern, Evan Healy, Jonathan Griffin (capt.), John E. Murphy, Seamus Galvin, Paul Costello, Aidan O Connor.

 

Rd. 3 on Fri. 4^th Sept. at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 3-18; Austin Stack’s 4-11.

That was another great display of football by both teams. Rangers took the lead from the start and were always able to hold it even when Stack’s piled on the pressure in the last ten minutes. Every player did his job well. Great credit was given to Trevor Gannon, normally a forward, who was drafted back to centre halfback in the absence of Tom Crowley, who was injured, and played the proverbial blinder. Robert Foley, John Ahern and Aidan O Connor were also great. At the end of the game, James Hobbart, the Stack’s trainer, objected to the score as held by the referee, Michael Murphy (Milltown/Castlemaine).

Laune Rangers: Michael McGillycuddy, Noel Clifford, Cian Foley, Cian Evans, Geoffrey O Mahony, Trevor Gannon, Paul Browne, Robert Foley, John Ahern, Evan Healy, Jonathan Griffin, John E. Murphy, Seamus Galvin, Paul Costello, Aidan O Connor.

 

Final on Sun. 18^th Oct. at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 2-9; Austin Stack’s 2-9.

In a thrilling end to the game, Laune Rangers scored the equalising point in the dying seconds. That was the team’s best performance of the year. Bob Foley, Cian Foley, Aidan O Connor, John E. Murphy and Brian Houlihan, who came on for Noel Clifford, played well.

Laune Rangers: Michael McGillycuddy, Noel Clifford, Cian Foley, Cian Evans, Geoffrey O Mahony, Tom Crowley, Paul James Browne, Bob Foley (1-1), John Ahern, Evan Healy, Jonathan Griffin (capt.) 1-2, John E. Murphy, Trevor Gannon (0-4), Paul Costello (0-2), Aidan O Connor. Sub: Brian Houlihan for N. Clifford.

 

Replay on Sun. 25^th Oct. at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 3-9; Austin Stack’s 1-10.

Laune Rangers: Michael McGillycuddy, Noel Clifford, Cian Foley, Cian Evans, Geoffrey O Mahony, Tom Crowley, Paul James Browne, Bob Foley, John Ahern, Aidan O Connor, Jonathan Griffin, John E. Murphy, Trevor Gannon, Paul Costello, Evan Healy. Subs: Brian Houlihan for N. Clifford, Darragh Burns for E. Healy, Seamus Galvin, Paul Sheehan.

Ref: Martin Hayes (Kilcummin).

 

U-12 Football Challenge Game

 

Sun. 15^th Nov. at Clonakilty: Clonakilty 7-9; Laune Rangers 5-15.

Laune Rangers began on a great note with four points scored in as many minute against the West-Cork Champions. Clonakilty settled down and fought back to take the lead. Laune Rangers, playing under different rules with the solo and penalty kicks in order, came back to play their own catch and kick style and drew level in the closing minutes. Evan though the game was a challenge and a day out for the Rangers, the game was tough with hard but fair football. Clonakilty, which had played 28 games that year without defeat, were the favourites. They had also beaten the East-Cork Champions. Liam White and Pat Griffin organised matters at the Cork end.

 

U-10 Football

 

Parish League Final on Sun. 15^th Nov: Andrew O Regan defeated Gerard O Sullivan in the A final.

Sean Evans defeated Caoilte O Gallachóir in the B final.

Andrew O Regan (capt.), John O Sullivan (twin), Noel Lynch, Aidan Lynch, Gerard O Sullivan (twin), Christopher Houlihan, John Houlihan, Jerome Houlihan, Anthony Houlihan, Michael McCaffrey, Edward Looney.

Gerard O Sullivan (capt.), Jamie Sheehan, Patrick Crowley, Paul O Connor, Damien Harmon, Darren O Riordan, Colin Mangan, Muiris Crowley, David Coffey, Anthony Twiss.

Sean Evans (capt.), Thomas McGillycuddy, Tim O Regan, Paul McKenna, James Hayes, Orla Coffey, Peter Slattery, Kevin Sheehan, Niall Looney.

Caoilte O Gallchóir (capt.), Ross Sheehan, Conor Falvey, Mark Healy, Timmy Houlihan, Dermot Houlihan, Francis Russell, Barry Woods, Jeremiah Coffey, Sorcha Ní Ghallchóir, Sean Galvin.

Man-of-the-match in the A final – Patrick Crowley.

U-10 player-of-the-year – Sean Evans.

 

Schools’/Colleges’ Football

 

Mid-Kerry N.S. 4-teachers competition.

There were three schools (four teams) in the competition, Milltown Monastery, Cullina, Scoil Mhuire ‘A’ (Pa Sheehan) and Scoil Mhuire ‘B’ (Eoin Ferris). Jerome Conway coached the ‘A’ team and Declan Falvey coached the ‘B’ team.

 

Rd. 1 on Fri. 8^th May at Milltown: Scoil Mhuire B 7-9; Monastery, Milltown 0-0.

Scoil Mhuire ‘B’: Fergal O Donoghue, Geoffrey O Mahony, Robert Moriarty, John Gorman, Paul Sheehan, Enda Grandfield, Andrew O Reilly, Owen Ferris (capt.), Cian Foley, Evan Healy, Garrath Sheehan, Daniel Moriarty, Eamonn O Connor, Seamus Galvin, Jamie Cahillane. Subs: Kevin Poff, Kevin Daly, Jason Browne, Donal Lynch (all played), Harry Bawden.

 

Rd. 2 on Fri. 15^th May at Killorglin: Scoil Mhuire A 2-10; Scoil Mhuire B 2-10.

Scoil Mhuire A: Kieran Leahy, Colm Leahy, Cian Evans, Tom Crowley, Michael McGillycuddy, John Paul Murphy, Robert Coffey, Morgan Foley, Robert Foley, Brian Curran, Karl Falvey, Darragh Burns, Chris McGillycuddy, Pa Sheehan (capt.), Tommy Heffernan. Subs: Daniel Murphy, Anthony O Sullivan, David Marmion (all played), John McCarthy, Garrett O Reilly, Jerome O Sullivan.

Scoil Mhuire B: Fergal O Donoghue, Geoffrey O Mahony, Enda Grandfield, Paul Sheehan, Robert Moriarty, John Gorman, Andrew O Reilly, Owen Ferris (capt.), Cian Foley, Eamonn O Connor, Garrath Sheehan, Donal Lynch, Kevin Harmon, Jamie Cahillane, Evan Healy. Subs: Seamus Galvin, Patrick Galvin, Kevin Daly, Pat Kelliher, Kevin Poff.

 

Rd. 3 on Thurs. 21^st May at Killorglin: Milltown Monastery 1-2; Scoil Mhuire A 3-20.

Scoil Mhuire A: Kieran Leahy, Darragh Burns, Cian Evans, Michael McGillycuddy, Robert Coffey, Tom Crowley, Brian Curran, Morgan Foley, Robert Foley, Karl Falvey, Pa Sheehan, Chris McGillycuddy, David Marmion, John Paul Murphy, Tommy Heffernan. Subs: Garrett O Reilly, Kieran Woods, Colm Leahy, Jerome O Sullivan, Anthony O Sullivan (all played).

 

Rd. 1 on Fri. 29^th May at Killorglin: Scoil Mhuire A 2-13; Cullina 0-10.

 

Semi-final on Thurs. 11^th June at Killorglin: Scoil Mhuire B 1-15; Scoil Mhuire A 3-8.

The teams were level at fulltime after a tense struggle. Extra time of 10 minutes each half saw the ‘B’ team win by a point.

Scoil Mhuire B: Fergal O Donoghue, Geoffrey O Mahony, Robert Moriarty, John Gorman, Paul Sheehan, Enda Grandfield, Andrew O Reilly, Owen Ferris (capt.), Cian Foley, Garrath Sheehan, Evan Healy, Donal Lynch, Jamie Cahillane, Kevin Harmon, Seamus Galvin. Subs: Daniel Moriarty, Patrick Galvin, Kevin Daly, Kevin Poff, Eamonn O Connor, Harry Bawden, Jason Brown            .

Scoil Mhuire A: Kieran Leahy, Tom Crowley, Cian Evans, Daniel Murphy, Robert Coffey, Morgan Foley, Brian Curran, Michael McGillycuddy, Robert Foley, Karl Falvey, Pa Sheehan, David Marmion, John Paul Murphy, Darragh Burns, Tommy Heffernan. Subs: Garrett O Reilly, Kieran Woods, Colm Leahy, Jerome O Sullivan, Anthony O Sullivan, Chris McGillycuddy, Michael Sheehan. John McCarthy.

Ref: Tommy Woods – good.

 

Final on Sun. 14^th June at Beaufort: Scoil Mhuire B 2-12; Cullina 0-9.

Scoil Mhuire were physically stronger than their opponents. Exchanges were pretty even in the first half, after which Killorglin led by 0-6 to 0-4. The Killorglin boys scored two goals in the second half to record their first win in that competition. Brendan Fitzgerald had just returned in time from injury for the final.

Scoil Mhuire B: Fergal O Donoghue, Geoffrey O Mahony, Robert Moriarty, John Gorman, Andrew O Reilly, Enda Grandfield, Paul Sheehan, Owen Ferris (capt.), Cian Foley, Brendan Fitzgerald, Garrath Sheehan, Evan Healy, Donal Lynch, Jamie Cahillane, Kevin Harmon. Subs: Eamonn O Connor, Seamus Galvin, Daniel Moriarty, Patrick Galvin, Kevin Daly (all played), Harry Bawden, Jason Brown, Kevin Poff. Coach – Declan Falvey.

Ref: Johnny Sheehan (Keel).

Kerry Senior Colleges (O Sullivan Cup)

Final on Fri. 22^nd May at Beaufort: St. Brendan’s 1-15; Intermediate School 1-9.

Because of the handicap system at Kerry colleges’ level, the ‘Sem’ was short four of its All-Ireland winning squad, namely Seamus Moynihan, Brendan Fitzgerald, Sean Dorgan and Conor O Donnell. They struggled to find their feet in the first half and, when Killorglin’s Colin O Sullivan scored a fine goal in the 26^th minute, they were six points in arrears. They reduced the deficit to three points, thanks to the deadly marksmanship of Ruairí O Rahilly, to leave the halftime score at 1-6 to 0-6 in favour of the Killorglin boys. However, in the second half, the ‘Sem’ took over at midfield and with a contribution of 0-9 from Ruairí O Rahilly they ran out winners. Best for Killorglin were Mike Falvey, Vinny Horgan, Colin O Sullivan, Colm Joy, Fergal Spillane, Derry O Sullivan and Rory Corkery.

 

Kerry Colleges U-15 Football Championship

Intermedaite School: Panel (All Laune Rangers except where stated) – Michael Hurley, Pat Leahy, Fergal O Brien, Eanna O Malley (Beaufort), John Sheehan, Paudie Finnegan, John O Sullivan, Rory McGrath (Beaufort), Michael F. Russell, Kieran O Donoghue (Listry), Pa O Sullivan, Joe Hayes (capt.), Brian Gannon, Brendan Doyle (Beaufort), Michael Kelliher (do.).

 

Munster Colleges U-15 Football Championship

Semi-final on Mon. 14^th Dec. at Ballyhooley, Co. Cork: Intermediate School 0-10; Dungarvan 1-5.

Dungarvan, aided by a lively breeze in the first half, led by 0-5 to 0-2 at halftime. However, on the resumption, Killorglin assumed control to run out convincing winners. Dungarvan scored a late consolation goal.

 

Munster Minor Football League

 

Rd. 1 on Sat. 14^th March at Dungarvan: Waterford 0-8; Kerry South 2-14.

Paudie Russell played at fullback. Kevin Jones scored 1-2 from centre half-forward and was replaced with ten minutes to go by Derry O Sullivan, who scored 0-1.

 

Munster Minor Football Championship

Trainer – Jackie Walsh (Ballylongford), Selectors – Dan O Sullivan (Currow), Jim Wrenn (Churchill), Sean Barry (Annascaul), Michael Price (Kenmare).

 

Rd. 1 on Wed. 13^th May at Beaufort: Kerry 1-15; Tipperary 1-5.

Mike Hassett played at midfield, where he performed some fine fielding and kicked a point.

 

Final on Sun. 19^th July at Limerick: Kerry 2-5; Cork 0-11.

Mike Hassett started at centre halfback. However, his move to midfield brought Kerry back into the game, as he excelled there.

 

Replay on Wed. 5^th Aug. at Páirc Uí Chaoimh: Cork 3-6; Kerry 2-7.

Mike Hassett, though having missed a penalty, played well at midfield and scored a point.

Kerry: Denis O Regan (Ballymacelligott), Anthony Morris (Spa), Killian Burns (Sneem), Owen O Doherty (Rathmore), Kieran O Shea (Na Gaeil), Peter Wyckham (Spa), Dara Ó Cinnéide (Gaeltacht), John Brennan (Desmonds), Mike Hassett (Laune Rangers) 0-1, Kenneth Boyle (Ballyduff) 1-1, Mark Moynihan (Annascaul) 0-3, John Crowley (Glenflesk) 1-0, Denis Dennehy (Currow), Brian Clarke (Dr. Croke’s) 0-1, Patrick Burns (Sneem) 0-1. Sub: Ruaidhrí O Rahilly (Ballymacelligott) for P. Burns, Chris Drummond (Sneem), Jerry Murphy (Rathmore), John Cronin (Dr. Crokes), Fergal O Brien (John Mitchels), Diarmuid Murphy (Dingle), Joe McAuliffe (Milltown/Castlemaine), Maurice Harty (Causeway), Donal Daly (Firies).

 

Munster/All-Ireland U-21 Football Championship

The Senior selectors, also, managed the U-21 team.

 

Rd. 1 on Fri. 5^th June at Ballybunion: Kerry 2-23; Limerick 0-5.

Billy O Sullivan scored 1-1 from right full-forward. Billy O Shea played at left half-forward. Conor Kearney, then with Brick Rangers, scored a point from midfield.

 

Semi-final on Tues. 30^th June at Milltown: Kerry 5-19; Waterford 0-6.

Kerry: Declan O Keeffe, Fergus Stack, Bernard McElligott, Johnny O Driscoll, Seamus Moynihan (0-1), Kieran O Shea, Johnny O Connell, Pa Laide, Conor Kearney (0-1), Peadar Keane (capt.) 0-5, frees, Paul Curran (1-2), Pat O Driscoll (1-0), Geni Farrell (1-3), Billy O Sullivan (0-4, 2 frees), Billy O Shea (2-1). Subs: D. Guerin (0-1) for B. McElligott, Seanie Culloty (0-1) for B. O Shea, Sean Pete O Sullivan for P. O Driscoll.

 

Final on Fri. 31^st July at Austin Stack Park, Tralee: Kerry 3-12; Cork 1-8.

Kerry: Declan O Keeffe (Rathmore), Fergus Stack (Beale), Bernard McElligott (Brick Rangers), Johnny O Driscoll (Annascaul), Danny Guerin (Kilcummin), Kieran O Shea (Beaufort), John O Connell (Tarbert), Conor Kearney (Brick Rangers), Seamus Moynihan (Glenflesk), Pa Laide (Austin Stack’s) 0-3, Paul Curran (Valentia) 0-1, Peter Keane (St. Mary’s) capt. 0-4, 2 frees, Billy O Sullivan (Laune Rangers) 2-2, Paud O Donoghue (Glenflesk) 1-1, Billy O Shea (Laune Rangers) 0-1. Subs: Dermot Lynch (Annascaul) for P. O Donoghue, Seamus McIntyre (Kenmare), Gary McGrath (Beaufort), Seanie Culloty (Legion), Gary Stack (Emmets), John Doona (Laune Rangers), Oran O Mahony (St. Mary’s), Kieran Scanlon (Currow), Jason Wieboldt (Castlegregory).

 

Semi-final on Sat. 15^th Aug. at Parnell Park: Tyrone 1-13; Kerry 1-8.

Kerry: Declan O Keeffe, Fergus Stack, Brendan McElligott, Johnny O Driscoll, Danny Guerin, Kieran O Shea, John O Connell, Conor Kearney (0-1), Seamus Moynihan, Pa Laide (0-3), Paul Curran, Peter Keane (capt.) 0-3, 1 free, Billy O Sullivan, Seamus McIntyre (Kenmare), Billy O Shea (1-1). Subs: John Doona (Laune Rangers) for J. O Connell, Paud O Donoghue for J. Doona, Dermot Lynch for P. Keane.

 

Munster Senior Football Championship

Trainer/Coach – Mickey O Sullivan (Kenmare). Selectors – Eddie O Sullivan (Dr. Crokes), John McNally (Scartaglin), Kevin Griffin (Glenbeigh), Tommy Doyle (Annascaul).

 

Challenge on Sun. 10^th May at Clounmacon: Kerry 1-10; Dublin 0-9.

Kerry: Peter O Leary, Stephen Stack, Bernard McElligott, Eamonn Breen, Sean Burke, Connie Murphy, Liam O Flaherty (0-1), Noel O Mahony, Noel O Leary, Pa Laide (0-1), Timmy Fleming (0-2), Maurice Fitzgerald (0-2), Sean Geaney, Jack O Shea (0-1), Carl O Dwyer (1-3). Subs: Dermot Hannifin for N. O Leary, Peter O Brien for P. O Leary.

 

Rd. 1 on Sun. 24^th May at Páirc Uí Chaoimh: Cork 0-10; Kerry 2-14.

Timmy Fleming played at centre half-forward and scored a point. Billy O Shea played at left full-forward. The Kerryman reported, ‘With two minutes remaining Billy O Shea filled Cork’s cup of grief to overflowing when he ran on to a pass from Jack O Shea and, from about 30 yards out, he unleashed a mighty left-footed shot and the ball sped into the left corner of the net, giving goalkeeper Kerins no chance whatsoever.’ Billy O Sullivan came on as a substitute for Pa Laide in the 61^st minute.

 

Semi-final on Sun. 21^st June at Limerick: Limerick 1-11; Kerry 1-14.

Timmy Fleming played well at centre half-forward. Billy O Shea played at left half-forward and scored a great goal. The Kerryman reported, ‘In the attack, Billy O Shea was the kingpin. The Laune Rangers man gave a superb all-round display. He attacked the opposing defence from the word go, chased and harried all through and took his goal in fine style. That Kerry goal stemmed from some fine work out of defence by the lion-hearted Stephen Stack. Karl O Dwyer got in on the act and a bad blunder by the Limerick defence presented O Shea with a perfect opening and the Laune Rangers stalwart fastened onto the chance and hammered a great drive low into the left corner of the net.’ Billy O Sullivan was a substitute.

 

Final on Sun. 19^th July at Limerick: Clare 2-10; Kerry 0-12.

Kerry: Peter O Leary (Legion), Stephen Stack (Emmet’s), Anthony Gleeson (John Mitchel’s), Eamonn Breen (Finuge), Liam Flaherty (Ballydonoghue), Sean Burke (Milltown/Castlemaine), Connie Murphy (Dr. Croke’s) capt. (0-1), Noel O Mahony (Kerins O Rahilly’s) 0-1, Seamus Moynihan (Glenflesk), Sean Geaney (Dingle), Timmy Fleming (Laune Rangers) 0-1, Maurice Fitzgerald (St. Mary’s) 0-7, frees, Karl O Dwyer (Waterville), Jack O Shea (Leixlip) 0-1, Billy O Shea (Laune Rangers) 0-1. Subs: Ambrose O Donovan (Gneeveguilla) for K. O Dwyer, Pa Laide (Austin Stack’s) for S. Geaney, Noel O Leary (Dr. Croke’s) for N. O Mahony, Morgan Nix (Kerins O Rahillys), Colm O Shea (Dr. Crokes), Peter O Brien (do.), Dermot Hanifin (Desmonds), Billy O Sullivan (Laune Rangers), Teddy Harrington (Tuosist).

NFL 1991/1992

 

Challenge game on Sun. 12^th Jan. in Parnell Park: Dublin 0-11; Kerry 0-5.

Kerry: Peter O Leary, Tom Walsh, Anthony Gleeson, Morgan Nix, Liam O Flaherty, Connie Murphy, John Cronin, Noel O Leary (0-2), Eamonn Breen, Pa Laide, Timmy Fleming, Billy O Shea (0-1), Pat O Shea, Noel O Mahony, Murt Moriarty (0-2). Subs: Mike Galvin, Teddy Harrington, Roland Neher, Peter O Brien.

 

Challenge on Sun. 26^th Jan. in Austin Stack Park: Kerry 1-4; Kildare 1-14.

Kerry: Peter O Leary, Stephen Stack, Anthony Gleeson, John Cronin, Jack O Connell, Morgan Nix, Liam O Flaherty, Noel O Mahony, Eamonn Breen, Pa Laide (0-1, free), Ambrose O Donovan, Billy O Sullivan (1-1), Sean McElligott, Murt Moriarty (0-1), Michael Galvin (0-1). Subs: Pat O Driscoll for P. Laide, Paul Curran for J. O Connell, Sean Pete O Sullivan for S. McElligott, Kieran O Shea for M. Nix.

 

Challenge on Sun. 16^th Feb. at Austin Stack Park: Kerry 1-3; Roscommon 1-11.

Kerry: Peter O Leary, Stephen Stack, Anthony Gleeson, John Cronin, Billy O Shea, Morgan Nix, Liam O Flaherty, Timmy Fleming (0-2, frees), Noel O Mahony, Tommy Spillane, Noel O Leary, David Farrell, Pa Laide, Ambrose O Donovan (0-1), Billy O Sullivan. Subs: Paul Curran (1-0) for D. Farrell, Mike Galvin for B. O Sullivan, Murt Moriarty for M. Galvin.

 

Sun. 1^st March at Tullamore: Offaly 0-10; Kerry 1-9.

Timmy Fleming used his power and thrust to breach the losers’ defence on several occasions and combined very well with the remainder of the forwards.

Kerry: Peter O Leary, Stephen Stack, Anthony Gleeson, Morgan Nix, Eamonn Breen, Connie Murphy, Liam Flaherty, Noel O Mahony (0-1), Noel O Leary, John Cronin (1-1), Timmy Fleming (0-2), Tommy Spillane (0-1), Pa Laide (0-2), Ambrose O Donovan (0-1), Billy O Shea (0-1).

 

Sun. 8^th March at Tralee: Kerry 1-8; Meath 0-8.

Timmy Fleming had the proverbial blinder at centre half-forward, scoring 1-2. The Kerryman reported, ‘Timmy Fleming was undoubtedly the star of the game. The Laune Rangers man was simply indefatigable. He foraged and fought like a tiger for every ball and certainly gave Martin O Connell something of a roasting. He took his goal with marvellous aplomb and his form on Sunday showed that he is back to his brilliant best.’

‘Likewise, Billy O Shea had a day to remember in the county jersey. The Laune Rangers man flowered when he moved out to the wing and he covered an amount of the ground in the process.’

The three Laune Rangers accounted for 1-4 of Kerry’s total.

Kerry: Peter O Leary, Stephen Stack, Anthony Gleeson, Morgan Nix, Eamonn breen, Connie Murphy, Liam Flaherty, Noel O Mahony, Ambrose O Donovan (0-2), Pa Laide (0-2, frees), Timmy Fleming (1-2, 2 frees), Tommy Spillane (0-1), John Cronin, David Farrell, Billy O Shea (0-1). Subs: Sean Geaney for D. Farrell, Colm O Shea for M. Nix (inj.), Billy O Sullivan (0-1) for J. Cronin.

 

Play-off on Sun. 29^th March at Croke Park: Meath 0-13; Kerry 2-6.

The Kerrymen reported, ‘The game was, in fact, only eight minutes old when Kerry rocked the vaunted Meath-men back on their heels with a neatly-worked goal. Pa Laide chipped a lovely pass in the path of Billy O Shea and the fleet-footed corner-forward, reading the mind of the advancing goalkeeper, steered the ball past him with his left foot. In that flashing moment of quick-thinking opportunism, the Laune Rangers man showed that he has the poise and the positive finish, which mark a player out on the big occasion. Indeed, all through this game he tortured and tormented the Meath defence, to such a degree, in fact, that they were forced to switch fullback Robbie O Malley out on him midway through the opening half.’ Billy O Shea was upended in the small parallelogram but the resultant penalty was driven wide by Pa Laide. Timmy Fleming had a very good game.

Kerry: Peter O Leary, Stephen Stack, Anthony Gleeson, Liam Flaherty, Eamonn Breen, Connie Murphy (capt.), Colm O Shea, Noel O Mahony, Ambrose O Donovan, Pa Laide (0-2, frees), Timmy Fleming (0-2, frees), Sean Geaney, Pat O Driscoll, Jack O Shea (1-1), Billy O Shea (1-1). Subs: Paul Curran for S. Geaney, Billy O Sullivan for P. Driscoll, Kieran O Shea for P. Curran.

Meath: Donal Smyth, Martin O Connell, Robbie O Malley, Terry Ferguson, Graham Geraghty, Eamonn McManus, Colm Coyle, P.J. Gillic, John McDermot, Brendan O Reilly (0-1), A. Browne (0-1, free), Tommy Dowd (0-1), Colm O Rourke, Brian Stafford (0-6, 5 frees), Bernard Flynn (0-4). Sub: Liam Hayes for A. Browne.

 

NFL 1992/1993

 

Challenge on Sat. 10^th Oct. at Ennis: Clare 0-18; Kerry 1-7.

Kerry: Peter O Leary, Liam Flaherty, Tommy Byrne, Morgan Nix, Pat Slattery, Noel O Leary, Eamonn Breen, Dermot Hanifin (0-1), Bernard McElligott, Seamus Moynihan (0-2), Cark O Dwyer (1-1), Connie Murphy (0-2), Billy O Shea (0-1), Murt Moriarty, David Farrell. Subs: Tom O Connell for M. Moriarty, Pa Laide for D. Farrell, Gerard O Connor for C. O Dwyer, Fintan Ashe for T. Byrne.

 

Rd. 1 on Sun. 18^th Oct. at Austin Stack Park, Tralee: Kerry 0-17; Wicklow 1-11.

Kerry: Peter O Leary, Liam Flaherty, Ambrose O Donovan, Morgan Nix, Eamonn Breen, Sean Burke (capt.), Pat Slattery, Dermot Hanifan (0-2), Bernard McElligott (0-2), Connie Murphy (0-4), Maurice Fitzgerald (0-5, 4 frees), Seamus Moynihan, Carl O Dwyer (0-2), David Farrell (0-1), Billy O Shea (0-1). Sub: Tommy Byrne for C. O Dwyer, Noel O Leary, Pa Laide, Tom O Connell (Brick Rangers), Fintan Ashe, Mike Hussey (Austin Stacks), Murt Moriarty, Gerald O Connor (Glenbeigh/Glencar), Michael Galvin (Sneem)..

Coach – Ogie Moran (Beale).

 

Challenge on Sun. 25^th Oct. ar Ruislip, London: Donegal 1-11; Kerry 0-10.

Kerry: Peter O Leary, Liam Flaherty, Ambrose O Donovan, Morgan Nix, Eamonn Breen, Sean Burke (0-1), Pat Slattery, Dermot Hanifan, Bernard McElligott (0-1), Pa Laide, Fintan Ashe (0-1), Seamus Moynihan (0-1), Carl O Dwyer (0-5, 4 frees), Tom O Connell, David Farrell. Subs: Billy O Shea (0-1) for T. O Connell, Noel O Leary for F. Ashe.

 

Rd. 2 on Sun. 1^st Nov. at Portlaois: Laois 0-16; Kerry 2-15.

Billy O Shea played at left half-forward and scored 1-0. The Kerryman reported, ‘Once again O Shea proved that he is one of the most whole-hearted players in the game. His work-rate was phenomenal and he was frequently to be found out-field stifling the efforts of opponents.’ Tommy Byrne came on as a substitute to the full-forward position and scored a smashing goal.

Kerry: Peter O Leary, Morgan Nix, Ambrose O Donovan, Pat Slattery, Eamonn Breen (0-1), Sean Burke, Seamus Moynihan, Dermot Hanifan (0-3, 1 free), Bernard McElligott (0-1), Connie Murphy (0-1), Maurice Fitzgerald (0-6, 5 frees), Billy O Shea (1-0), Michael Galvin, Carl O Dwyer (0-2), David Farrell (0-1). Subs: Tom O Connell for C. Murphy, Tommy Byrne (1-0) for D. Farrell, Murt Moriarty for S. Moynihan.

 

Rd. 3 on Sun. 15^th Nov. at Kilkenny: Kilkenny 1-3; Kerry 5-20.

Kerry: Peter O Leary, Pat Slattery, Ambrose O Donovan, Morgan Nix, Eamonn Breen, Liam Flaherty, Anthony Gleeson, Dermot Hanifin, Bernard McElligott (0-1), Billy O Shea (0-1), Maurice Fitzgerald (0-5), Seamus Moynihan (2-3), Michael Galvin (2-3), Carl O Dwyer (0-2), David Farrell (1-4). Subs: Fintan Ashe (0-1) for M. Fitzgerald, Tommy Byrne for B. O Shea, Noel O Mahony for D. Hanifin.

 

Rd. 4 on Sun. 28^th Nov. at Tralee: Kerry 1-8; Tyrone 0-9.

Kerry: Peter O Leary, Anthony Gleeson, Bernard McElligott, Morgan Nix, Eamonn Breen (0-1), Sean Burke, Liam O Flaherty, Dermot Hanifin, Maurice Fitzgerald (0-5, frees), Connie Murphy, Noel O Mahony, Seamus Moynihan, Billy O Shea, Carl O Dwyer (0-2), David Farrell (1-0). Subs: Michael Galvin, Tommy Byrne, Noel O Leary, Michael Hussey, Tom O Connell, Fintan Ashe, Murt Moriarty, Gerard O Connor and Fergus Stack.

 

Challenge on Sun. 13^th Dec. at Newbridge: Kildare 1-11; Kerry 2-3.

Kerry: Michael Hussey (Austin Stacks), Fergus Stack (Beale), Bernard McElligott (Brick Rangers), Seamus O Sullivan (St. Pat’s), Eamonn Breen (Finuge), Tommy Byrne (Laune Rangers), John Walsh (St. Senan’s), Noel O Mahony (Kerins O Rahillys) 0-1, Fintan Ashe (Dingle), Pa Dennehy (Currow) 0-1, Tom O Connell (Brick Rangers), Conor Kearney (do.) 0-1, Carl O Dwyer (Waterville) 2-0, Murt Moriarty (Dingle), Michael Galvin (Sneem). Subs: Gerard O Connor (Glenbeigh) for T. Byrne, Mark Moynihan (Annascaul) for M. Moriarty.

 

Railway Cup (Inter-Provincial Competition)

 

Semi-final on Sun. 1^st March at Tralee: Munster 2-7; Leinster 1-9.

Timmy Fleming played at centre half-forward and, though he did not score, he was one of Munster’s better players.

 

Final on Sun. 15^th March at Newry: Ulster 2-7; Munster 0-8.

Timmy Fleming played at centre half-forward.

 

Co. U-16 Hurling League

 

Sun. 4^th Oct: St. Mary’s beat Abbeydorney.

Sun. 11^th Oct: St. Mary’s beat Crotta O Neill’s.

Sun. 18^th Oct. at Listry: St. Mary’s 1-3; Kenmare 3-6.

 

South-Kerry Senior Hurling League

 

Rd. 1 on Wed. 15^th April at Tralee: Kerins O Rahillys 2-3; St. Mary’s 2-8.

Ted Quirke, Stephen Daly, Joe Crowe and Michael Sweeney played for St. Mary’s.

 

Rd. 2 on Wed. 22^nd April at Kilgarvan: Kilgarvan 2-0; St. Mary’s 0-10.

The underfoot conditions were terrible and it was a tribute to the players concerned that they managed to serve up some spells of exciting hurling under those circumstances.

 

South-Kerry Junior Hurling Championship

 

Semi-final on Sun. 4^th Oct. at Farranfore: St. Mary’s 4-13; Kenmare ‘B’ 3-4.

 

Final on Sun. 8^th Nov: St. Mary’s 2-15; Kilgarvan ‘B’ 2-3.

The score-line flattered St. Mary’s somewhat and did not do justice to the heart and commitment shown by a competent Kilgarvan side. The first half was dominated by St. Mary’s trio, Jerry O Sullivan and the Kennedy brothers, Joe and Robert.

St. Mary’s: Alan Quirke, Aidan Spillane, Gerry Foley, M. Dilworth, Gerard Hearne (0-1), Jerome O Mahony (1-2), M. Broderick, Joe Kennedy (0-11), Robert Kennedy (0-1), Jerry O Sullivan, Ciaran O Callaghan, Stpehen Daly, Brian O Sullivan, David Quirke (1-0), L. Hughes.

 

Co. Senior Hurling League Div. 3

 

Rd. 1 on Wed. 17^th June at Farranfore: St. Mary’s 2-9; Kilmoyley ‘C’ 4-3.

Having dominated for most of the time, St. Mary’s lost a seven points’ lead and were very nearly pipped at the finish.

 

Rd. 2 on Wed. 24^th June at Crotta: Crotta O Neill’s ‘B’ 2-1; St. Mary’s 1-8.

That was a tough encounter, played in greasy conditions, with the spirited defensive play of the Mary’s proving decisive at the finish.

 

Rd. 3 on Wed. 1^st July at Listry: St. Mary’s 4-4; Lixnaw ‘B’ 2-11.

Short a few regulars, St. Mary’s were pipped by a point in the last minute and so suffered their first defeat of the campaign.

 

Rd. 4 on Wed. 8^th July at Tralee: Kerins O Rahillys 2-3; St. Mary’s 1-15.

That was the best displays by the team that year. Gerard Hearne, Stephen Daly, Con Murphy and Ted Quirke played with St. Mary’s.

 

Rd. 5 on Wed. 15^th July at Killorglin: St. Mary’s 1-5; Dr. Crokes 1-12.

Rd. 6 on Wed. 22^nd July at Kilgarvan: Kilgarvan ‘B’ 0-2; St. Mary’s 1-4.

Rd. 7 on Wed. 29^th July at Killorglin: St. Mary’s 4-11; Kenmare ‘B’ 1-6.

Rd. 8 on Wed. 26^th Aug. at at Abbeydorney: Abbeydorney ‘B’ lost heavily to St. Mary’s.

 

Semi-final on Sat. 25^th Oct. at Abbeydorney: Ballyheigue ‘C’ 2-13; St. Mary’s 1-2.

 

Co. Intermediate Hurling Championship

 

Semi-final on Sun. 27^th Sept. at Abbeydorney: Kilmoyley ‘B’ 4-8; St. Mary’s 3-7.

A point down at halftime, St. Mary’s gradually got the upper-hand on their more fancied opponents and led by three points with only six minutes remaining. However, Kilmoyley snatched victory with two well-taken goals and a point in the dying minutes.

St. Mary’s: A. Quirke, J. Gleeson, C. Lawlor, M. Broderick, J. O Sullivan, Jerome O Mahony, K. McNamara, Joe Kennedy, J. O Connell, Martin Driver, Val Broderick, Robert Kennedy. Subs: Joe Purcell, Brian O Sullivan, Laurence Hogan, Joe Crowe, Michael Sweeney, Gerard Hearne.

 

Hurling Challenge Games

 

In August at Tralee: Austin Stacks 2-15; St. Mary’s 2-12.

 

Sun. 25^th Oct. at Knockavota: Knockavota 4-7; The Rest 2-4.

That was a seven-a-side game – it was the second year of the competition. The plaques and medals were sponsored by O Shea’s Bar, Milltown. The man-of-the-match award was sponsored by Murphy’s Supermarket, Milltown. The video of the game was recorded by Michael Corcoran, with Willie Murphy as commentator.

Knockavota: T. Linehan, M. Spillane, Noel Spillane, P. O Sullivan, Karl Daly, Karl John Daly, Michael Foley (capt.), Ted Quirke, Pat Cronin. Sub: Michael O Sullivan.

The Rest: J. Hearne, Con Murphy, Gerard Hearne, Michael Sweeney, Padraig Doyle, Thomas Doyle, Joe Crowe (capt.), T. Flynn, Enda Clifford. Subs: S. Flynn and Paudie Murphy.

 

St. Pat’s, East-Kerry, travelled to Urlingford, Co. Kilkenny and played the local Emerald’s in a challenge. Joe Kennedy and Laurence Hogan were invited and travelled with St. Pat’s.

 

Ladies National Football League (Div. 2)

 

Sun. 17^th May at Churchill: Kerry 3-14; Laois 3-2.

Kerry: Una Dennehy, Elaine McGillycuddy, Nora Hallissey, Kathleen Griffin, Siobhán Walsh, Nora Crowley, Helen Enright, Sandra Hartnett, Jacqueline McGillycuddy (2-1), Dell Whyte (0-1), Siobhán O Sullivan (0-3), Helen O Donoghue, Helen Maunsell, Margaret Gilbert (1-6), Michelle Walsh (0-1). Subs: Christina Morgan (0-1) for H. O Donoghue, Josephine Murphy for H. Maunsell, Maura Burke (0-1) for K. Griffin.

 

Ladies Munster Senior Football Championship

 

Semi-final on Sun. 16^th Aug. at Newmarket-on-Fergus: Clare 2-2; Kerry 2-17.

Kerry: Kathleen Curran, Bridget Leen, Dell Whyte, Patricia Murphy, Marion Doherty, Joanne Fitzgerald, Helena McElligott, Fionnuala Ruane, Ann Costello (0-6), Marina Barry (1-3), Mary Jo Curran (capt.) 0-4, Eileen Dardis (0-1), Margaret Flaherty, Jacqueline McGillycuddy (1-0), Noreen Wamsley. Subs: Aileen McLoughlin, for J. Fitzgerald, Eileen Mulvihill (0-1) for N. Wamsley, Marie Fitzgerald (0-2) for M. Flaherty, Margaret Slattery for A. Costello.

 

Administration/Miscellany

 

Peter Quinn, Fear Manach, was Uachtarán CLG.

 

The Annual Convention of the Munster Council was held in the Grand Hotel, Tralee on 29^th Feb. The following officers were elected: Tommy Boland (Luimneach), Secretary – Donie Nealon (Tiobrad Árainn), Treasurer – Declan Moylan (Luimneach), who was elected to replace the recently deceased Michael O Connor.

 

The Annual Convention of the Kerry Co. Board was held in the Gleneagle Hotel, Killarney, on Sun. 12^th Jan. 1992. The following officers were elected: President – Mícheál Ó Ruairc, Chairman – Sean Kelly, Vice-Chairman – Liam Cotter, Secretary – Tony O Keeffe, Joint-Treasurers – James Coffey and John McMahon, Central Council Delegate – Gerald McKenna, Munster Council Delegates – Dave Geaney and Teddy O Sullivan, PRO – Eamonn O Sullivan, Youth Officer – Joe Langan, Oifigeach na Gaeilge – Diarmuid Ó Murchú, Development Officer – Sean Walsh.

Senior Selection Committee (elected in Oct. 1991): Mickey O Sullivan (appointed), Kevin Griffin (Glenbeigh) 96, Tommy Doyle (Annascaul) 102, Eddie ‘Tatler’ O Sullivan (Dr. Crokes) 120 and John McNally (Scartaglin) 65. {Other candidates – Tom Fitzgerald (Emmet’s) 64, Ger O Driscoll (St. Mary’s) 51, P.J. O Donovan (St. Mary’s) 42, Denis O Sullivan (Kerins O Rahillys) 37 and Frank Wallace (Ardfert) 23}.

Minor Football Selection Committee (appointed from the previous year) – Jackie Walsh, Dan O Sullivan, Jim Wrenn, Michael Price and Sean Barry.

John Mitchel’s had a motion on the ‘clár’ that all Co. Senior Football Finals should be played in the Austin Stack Park, Tralee. Speaking against the motion, Jerome Conway said that, when they had played John Mitchels in the county final (in 1989), they had felt that playing it in Tralee would have been an advantage to Mitchel’s. ‘We felt we had the right to have a choice,’ he said, ‘I would agree that if a Tralee team is not involved, it should be played in Tralee. If a Tralee team is involved, their opponents should have the right to choose.’ The motion was lost. The Laune Rangers delegates to the AGM were Jerome Conway, John Clifford and Liam Shannon.

 

Bart Moriarty was appointed as Referees Co-Ordinator in the county, with responsibility for recruiting, training and assessing referees.

James Coffey was appointed onto the Sponsorship Committee, with particular emphasis on exploring all avenues of sponsorship for competitions. He was also appointed onto the Austin Stack Park Committee.

Pat Lynch was appointed onto the Co. GPC.

 

The following officers were elected at the Annual Convention of Bord na nOg Chiarraí in the Grand Hotel, Tralee on Tues. 7^th Jan: President – Sylvie Mason, Chairman – Dan Kelliher, Vice-Chairman – Brother John Guinane, Secretary/PRO – Willie O Connor, Fixtures Secretary – Paudie County, Treasurers – Liam Moriarty and Con Griffin, Registrar – Liam Ó Rócháin, Hurling Officer – John Canty, GPC – Patsy Cremin, Donie Fleming and Sean O Donnell.

 

The AGM of the Mid-Kerry Board was held. The following officers were elected: President – Murt Kelly (Beaufort), Chairman – Mike McCarthy (Milltown/Castlemaine), Vice-Chairman – John Dowling (Keel), Secretary – Michael Healy (Cromane), Treasurers – Edward Stack (Laune Rangers), George Evans (Keel) and Dan Carey (Cromane), PRO – Christy O Riordan (Laune Rangers).

 

Beaufort Club organised Bord na nOg Chiarraí Lár in 1992. Noel Spillane was Chairman and Mossie Breen was Secretary.

 

The minutes of 14 Laune Rangers’ Club meetings during 1992 are available. The following matters were discussed:

28^th Jan. – The Co. Board Draw. Members were asked to buy a ticket and sell one. A profit of £7,000 was made. The Chairman thanked Jim Galvin and his helpers for re-sodding the necessary parts of the pitch and he asked for sufficient time for the sods to bed in. Jim Galvin and all those who were involved were thanked by the Chairman for the re-sodding of the goalmouths. The goalposts at the northern end of the field were moved down to the bounds ditch to give the upper goalmouth a chance to recover. A table-quiz was held in the Manor Inn on Thurs. 30^th Jan. St. Mary’s Hurling Club thanked the Laune Rangers Club for the use of its facilities in 1991. It was decided to put pillar showers into the new dreassing rooms. Legal advice was sought on the article that appeared in the Beaufort notes in The Kingdom concerning Laune Rangers. The paper offered space to the Mid-Kerry Board to answer the article. The Kerryman granted Laune Rangers a column in the notes.

10^th March – John Griffin was instructed to put a gravel path down to and in front of the stand. The recommendations from the officers of the Munster Council regarding Cromane Club were discussed and it was decided to seek further clarification. Dr. Crokes Senior team was wished well in its quest for All-Ireland glory. Get-well cards were sent to Steve Joe Cahillane, Bansha, Timmy Corkery, Darragh O Sullivan and Robert Coffey.

23^rd March – Brian Mangan, Dromin, sought and was granted a transfer to Glenbeigh/Glencar.

6^th April – Niall Moriarty was granted a transfer. Invitation from John Mitchels to partake in its tournament was declined – the senior trainer was not interested.

4^th May – it was decided that the club would abide by the original recommendations of the Munster Council regardind the Cromane Club.

2^nd June – It was decided to inform the Co. Board, Mid-Kerry Board and the Co. Referees’ Committee that the club would never again take part in any game where Kieran Breen (Beaufort) was the referee. That arose out of comments passed by Kieran Breen during a recent ‘B’ game.

29^th June – Jerome Conway made out the teams for the Senior Parish League.

24^th Aug. – The Cromane affair dragged on ad nauseum. The Co. GPC dragged its feet on investigating the constitution of the Cromane senior team.

7^th Sept. – The Minor Co. Final was played in Killorglin and the club printed and sold programmes for the event, realising £450. Jim Galvin, Mattie Cahill and Andy Pigott were thanked for their work on the field for that game. The Mid-Kerry Board was given permission to hold a church-gate collection in Killorglin. John Evans addressed the meeting on 7^th Sept. and expressed his dissatisfaction that the ‘B’ team selectors had played James O Shea on 5^th Sept. (As he had been required by the senior team on the following day in a crunch Co. League game versus Legion). The officers were to investigate that. They were also to investigate why the ‘B’ team selectors played Robbie Evans while he was under suspension by the club.

21^st Sept. – Co. GPC ruled Laune Rangers’ request to investigate the Cromane team in the Co. League game versus Knocknagoshel out of order as the Secretary had not signed his name in Irish.  Laune Rangers were invited to a GPC meeting to discuss the playing by Cromane of Laune Rangers’ players.

5^th Oct.  – Preparations were made for the auction. On Sun. 25^th Oct. a Grand Auction was held by the Laune Rangers Club in the Manor Inn in aid of club funds. An appeal for goods of all descriptions was made and the people of the parish responded generously. A huge crowd attended on the day and, despite the best efforts of organiser, James Ferris, and auctioneers, John Evans, Willie Murphy and Frank Twiss, quite a number of items were left unsold and the operation had to be repeated on the following Sunday. Again a huge crowd turned up and the remainder of the items were auctioned off. Dolores Johnston was a great help during the venture over the two days. The auction was a great success financially, realising £4,300.

23^rd Nov. – The Chairman thanked James Ferris and his band of workers for their success with the auction. The Chairman put it on record that he had attended at Dooks as part of his work and was consequently unable to attend the after-match meal, which was held after the Mid-Kerry Senior Football Final. Paudie Sheahan and Timmy Fleming attended the meeting on 23^rd Nov. to inform the club that the players were interested in setting up a fund to raise money for a holiday for the players and their wives from the team that won the Co. Championship in 1989 and the present team. The Chairman said that he was in favour of the idea and suggested that there would be three players and three from the club on the committee. There would be a dance in the Manor Inn on 9^th Jan, the players would sell tickets for the dance and the club would look after the financial side of the matter. That was agreed.

 

The following attended meetings of Laune Rangers Club during 1992: Donal Pigott (14), Aidan Gannon (13), Maurice Corkery (12), James Coffey (11), John Clifford (11), Pat Pigott (11), Matty Cahill (11), Liam Shannon (10), Jim Galvin (10), Michael O Shea (10), James Ferris (9), Bernadette Corkery (8), Jerome Conway (8), James Sheehan (3), John Evans (2), Danny Cahill (1), John Purcell (1), Tommy Woods (1), Peter Lyons (1), Joe O Sullivan (1), Jimmy Hayes (1), Paudie Sheahan (1), Timmy Fleming (1), Frankie Russell (1).

 

Laune Rangers held their Annual Table Quiz in the Manor Inn, Killorglin, on Thurs. 6^th Feb. The number of tables was less than in previous years but an enjoyable night was had by all. The results were as follows: 1^st Kevin Griffin’s team (Intermediate School), 2^nd Listry and 3^rd Manor Inn.

 

On Sat. 15^th Feb. the 1991 medals were presented to all the winning Laune Rangers’ juvenile teams in Scoil Mhuire. A video of the U-14 All-Ireland Féile Peile na nOg final was shown.

 

Christy Kissane was elected as Chairman of the Kingdom Club, London, at its AGM in the Prince of Wales, Harrow Road, in February. Pat O Mahony (Templenoe and Laune Rangers) was a member of the senior selection committee.

 

At the Co. Board meeting on 9^th March, Jerome O Mahony’s transfer from Laune Rangers to Spa was sanctioned.

At the Co. Board meeting on 13^th April the transfer of Brian Mangan from Commercials, Tipperary, to Laune Rangers was sanctioned.

 

At the Co. Board meeting on 11^th May, Tommy Byrne and Eoin Joy were given permission to play in the Dublin Senior Football Championship with UCD. At the Co. Board meeting on 15^th June, Pa Murphy was given permission to play in the Cork Senior Football Championship with UCC.

 

In April, Gerard Murphy had an operation on his knee in a Dublin Hospital. He spent the year recovering and he was a huge loss to the senior team.

 

At the end of May, Limerick District, backboned by 13 Kerry players, won the Telecom Inter-District Gaelic Football Championship by beating Galway District by 1-10 to 1-9 in the final at Blarney. Michael Foley, Reen, was one of the selectors of the Limerick District team.

 

In July, the following Kerry U-16 panel took part in a week long coaching programme in UL: Liam Brosnan (Currow), Raymond Clifford (Keel), Leonard Burns (Sneem), Brian Murphy (Beaufort), Jason Morrissey (Kerins O Rahillys), James O Shea (Foilmore), Sean O Mahony (Castlegregory), Tim Coakley (Scartaglin), Dermot O Connor (Firies), Charlie McCarthy (Gneeveguilla), Ciarán O Flatharta (An Ghaeltacht), Rory Corkery (Laune Rangers), Paul Daly (Na Gaeil), Martin Carmody (Tarbert), Maurice Mulvihill (Moyvane), Alan Sheehan (Templenoe), Jack Ferriter (Dingle), Conor McSwiney (Kenmare), Denis O Dwyer (Waterville), Jeremy Walsh (Churchill), Fergus O Connor (John Mitchels), James Weldon (Fossa), Donal Buckley (Desmonds). Selectors – Willie O Connor and Junior Murphy. Co. Football Coach – Pat O Shea.

 

John Evans refereed the following games, amongst others, for the Kerry Co. Board:

Sun. 15^th March, Co. SFL Div. 1 at Direen: Legion 0-14; Beale 2-6.

Sun. 19^th April, Co. SFLDiv. 2 at Cahersiveen: St. Mary’s 0-13; Valentia 2-6.

Sat. 16^th May, Co. SFL Div. 2 at Spa: Spa 2-10; Emmets 1-9.

 

Pat O Shea refereed the following game, amongst others, for the Kerry Co. Board:

Sun. 19^th April, Co. SFL Div. 5 at Listry: Listry 12; Skellig Rangers 2-10.

 

Laune Rangers Annual Social was held in the Manor Inn, Killorglin on Sat. 6^th Feb. 1993. Tickets cost £8. It was regarded by all as one of the most enjoyable ever. The senior teams were presented with the various medals, which included Co. League Division 1, Mid-Kerry Senior Championship and Mid-Kerry Senior ‘B’ Championship. The senior player of the year was Shane O Sullivan, the ‘B’ team award went to Liam Foley, the ‘C’ team award to Joe Doyle and the minor award to Mike Hassett. All of the above recipients were chosen by the respective selection committees. During the social, Chairman, Jerome Conway, made a presentation on behalf of the club to the out-going Chairman, Aidan Gannon. He stressed the great work that Mr. Gannon had done for the club and congratulated him on fulfilling his ambition of providing a modern dressing-room for the J.P. O Sullivan Park. Replying, Aidan Gannon thanked the club for the presentation, which came as a big surprise. He said that he would continue to help the club in everyway possible and wished the team every success in the years ahead. Very Rev, Canon Keane, in the course of his short address, recalled some of the great highlights of the past. He stressed the need for the continued support for the Laune Rangers Club and the GAA, saying that it was still by far the best association to care for the youth of the country.

 

Co. Senior Football Final on Sun. 27^th Sept. at Tralee: Mid-Kerry 3-9; St. Brendan’s 1-10.

Co. Minor Football Final on Sat. 5^th Sept. at Killorglin: South-Kerry 0-12; St. Kieran’s 0-4.

Co. U-21 Football Final on Sun. 10^th May at Tralee: South-Kerry 2-14; Laune Rangers 2-6.

Co. Intermediate Football Final on Sun. 27^th Sept. in Tralee: Annascaul 1-14; St. Mary’s 1-9.

Co. Junior Football Final (replay) on Sun. 8^th Nov. at Killarney: Glenflesk 1-10; Sneem 1-8.

Co. Novice Football Final on Sun. 15^th Nov. at Tralee: An Ghaeltacht 1-12; Ballymac 1-3.

Co. Club Football Final on Sun. 15^th Nov. at Kenmare : Dr. Crokes 2-15; Kenmare 0-7.

Co. Club ‘B’ Football Final on Sun. 4^th Oct. art Beaufort: Kerins O Rahillys 0-8; Laune Rangers 0-2.

Co. League Div. 1 winners – Laune Rangers (no final).

 

The Cromane Affair (continued):

• Thurs. 20^th Feb. at the Devon Inn, Templeglantine – a meeting of delegates from Laune Rangers, Cromane, Co. Board, Mid-Kerry and Munster Council took place. The meeting was at the instigation of the Co. Chairman, who seemed to be unwilling to enforce the agreement between the two clubs, which had been hammered out with the Munster Council. The representatives were as follows:

Laune Rangers – Aidan Gannon, James Coffey and Jerome Conway.

Cromane – Patrick Casey, John O Keeffe and Frank Walsh.

Mid-Kerry Board – Mike McCarthy and Michael Healy.

Co. Board – Sean Kelly and Liam Cotter.

Munster Council – Michael Maher (Chairman) and Donie Nealon (Secretary).

The Co. Chairman, Sean Kelly, introduced both club delegates and expressed the wish that there would be an amicable agreement. Both clubs were heard together initially. Frank Walsh spoke for Cromane, outlining the history of the club, both past and present (He had obviously been well tutored by Pat O Shea). He demanded full parity for Cromane in the       parish of Killorglin! While making the point that the club had small numbers, he denied that Cromane had a ‘B’ team in 1991, which was blatantly untrue as Laune Rangers ‘B’ had played against them on Tues. 14^th May. He took advantage of the Munster Chairman’s lack of       knowledge of Kerry football (he had obviously been coached by someone who had been aware that the Chiarman did not fully understand the Kerry system of fixtures) e.g. he declared that Cromane was unable to field a team in the Kerry Minor Football Championship in 1991, when everybody knew that very few clubs fielded teams in the Minor Co. Football        Championship. Jerome Conway, putting Laune Rangers’ point of view as forcibly as possible, informed the Chairman of that and also that Cromane had a team in the Co. Minor League and the Mid-Kerry Minor Championship. Both clubs were then interviewed separately (Mid-Kerry       Board delegates were present at both interviews – one could hardly call them neutral), and the Munster Council promised to reply within a few months.

• 4^th March, a letter from Munster Council recommended the following new arrangements for a period of three years, beginning in 1992, with the matter to be reviewed at the start of 1995:

1. That both Laune Rangers and Cromane Clubs be free to pick players from any part of the parish for all underage competitions up to minor grade as and from 1992.
2. That no change from the 1985 arrangement be allowed for adult players (i.e those over minor age).
3. That Munster Council’s proposal to be decided by secret ballot at a meeting of the Kerry Co. Board.

• At the Laune Rangers Club meeting on 10^th March, a long discussion took place regarding the new recommendations from the officers of the Munster Council. The general opinion was that it was a means of opening the whole parish for all grades. It was felt that the club should be opposed to those recommendations and it was decided to write a letter to the Munster Secretary, expressing the club’s dissatisfaction with them. Jerome Conway composed the letter as follows: “It was with te greatest distress and incredulity that our club received the recommendations of the Munster Council officers following the meeting in Templeglantine. It is the greatest source of bewilderment and alarm to our club that the Munster Council officers should interfere with the original agreement. Great care was taken by Brendan Vaughan, the then Chairman of the Munster Council, Michael O Connor (RIP), the then Vice-Chairman of the Munster Council and Frank King (RIP), the then Chairman of the Kerry Co. Board, that a rival club should not be allowed in the parish of Killorglin – a club that would interfere with the existing club. The Munster Council at the time granted a club to Cromane to facilitate the players in that area who wanted to play football – we acceded to that request, even though we contended, and still contend, that we catered for all players who wanted to play. We were guaranteed that the agreement would not be changed – we had expressed anxiety that this might happen. The guarantee that the agreement would be sacrosanct had a huge bearing on our acceptance of that agreement. While Frank King was Chairman, there was never a problem with the agreement. Unfortunately, since the present encumbent took office, there has been endless interference by Cromane with the terms of the agreement and the present Co. Chairman has failed to uphold that agreement. It is this inaction by him that has lead to the present situation. Our club cannot understand why the Munster Council officers are recommending allowing Cromane the pick of the whole parish at juvenuile level. We have striven for years to promote the GAA in our parish. We have had successful and unsuccessful campaigns but nothing has deterred our efforts of providing pleasurable football for all our players. Every true GAA person in Kerry will vouch for that. We have successfully competed against the bigger clubs in Kerry – Austin Stacks, Dr. Crokes, etc. It is most frustrating for our juvenile mentors to accept that, despite their greatest efforts to promote the game, the Muinster Council now sees fit to allow another club access to our players. The other club in the parish, Cromane, has sufficient players of its own to participate at its own level. Hereunder is how their campaign of 1991 went in the Kerry Co. League:
• County U-12 League – lost to Finuge, beat Knocknagoshel, beat Cordal and lost to Glenbeigh.
• County U-14 League – lost to Keel, lost to Milltown/Castlemaine and lost to Glenbeigh.
• Mid-Kerry Bord na nOg – took part in all three competitions (U-12, U-14 and U-16) in the ‘C’ section (The ‘C’ competition consists of 11-a-side).
• It is obvious from this that Cromane has players, but it is equally apparent that Cromane no longer are satisfied to accommodate their own players, they also want to weaken Laune Rangers. This action is just to satisfy the vindictiveness of two people who were once part of Laune Rangers Club but could not abide by the decisions of the Laune Rangers Club. It is impossible to accept that a club that would cheer against you in a game, will now have parity in the parish, when it comes to juveniles.
• As to the Munster Council’s second recommendation, with regard to the present agreement and senior players, the present Co. Chairman has refused to uphold this agreement. We have been objecting for a year and a half to the playing of one player illegally by Cromane, but there has been no action taken by the Co. Board. The result is that Cromane are now playing four illegal players – is it not to be expected that when they get away with one, the matter will be escalated?
• How can I impress on you our utter dismay? We are the innocent party and yet when we look for justice from the Co. Board, none is forthcoming and when we ask the Munster Council officers, they recommend that the offenders get parity in the parish at juvenile level. Who said that crime doesn’t pay?
• It is obvious that the only club to lose, if these recommendations are passed – and your insistence on a secret ballot guarantees this course of action – is Laune Rangers. Cromane is a close-knit community – a fishing village – and none of their juveniles will come and play with us when there is an alternative in Cromane. However, any player who has a grudge with Laune Rangers, will play with Cromane. Why should a player accept discipline from Laune Rangers, when he can get football with the opposition? Soccer will flourish in these circumstances, as nearly happened in the recent past. The mentors of all the teams in Tralee, Killarney and Listowel will tell you of their difficulties with soccer. Laune Rangers have withstood any interference through an insistence on first allegiance to the GAA. If there is an alternative club in the parish, then we could very well succumb. Maybe then we will receive some sympathy fro the Co. Board and Munster Council but that will be much too late.
• We beseech you to withdraw these ill-advised recommendations for the sake of football in the Killorglin parish. Obviously, we have failed to impress on you the urgency of the situation previously, but the very existence of our club is threatened by these recommendations. History has shown that Laune Rangers nearly became defunct when the parish was split in the 1950’s and was only saved by amalgamation. Please, we implore you, do not let our efforts since go to nought, simply to satisfy the bitterness of a few.”

• Letter from the Munster Council on 6^th April, stating that the recommendations were in the hands of the Kerry Co. Board for decision. It was obvious that the recommendations would be accepted by the Co. Board and that the club would achieve nothing by opposing them.
• Co. Board meeting on 13^th April – correspondence was received from both Laune Rangers and Cromane, agreeing to the new arrangements put forward by the Munster Council. That was proposed by John Clifford (Laune Rangers) and seconded by Frank Walsh (Cromane). However, Cromane sought that another item be added to the agreement – that the players then playing with Cromane, not living in their section of the parish, be allowed to continue playing with Cromane. (That suggestion should have been immediately rejected but the Chairman was again unwilling to force Cromane to abide by the agreement and, sensing that, the Cromane club continued to flout the agreement). That suggestion caused a heated discussion and the matter was left in abeyance until the following meeting. Unbelievably, Cromane were requested to make a submission to the Board on behalf of each of the players individually.
• At a special meeting of Laune Rangers Club on 4^th May, it was unanimously decided not to grant the players, who lived outside the Cromane Station Districts, to Cromane but to accept the recommendations of the Munster Council as they stood. That decision was conveyed to the Co. Board meeting on 11^th May. The Chairman ruled that it would have to be taken according to the Munster Council direction, but that he would allow Cromane one last chance to make a case on each individual player, for whom they sought permission to continue playing with Cromane! (That was, of course, an open invitation to Cromane to continue flouting the agreement and they duly accepted it).
• At a Laune Rangers Club meeting on 2^nd June, it was decided to uphold the decision not to allow the named players play with Cromane. That decision was conveyed to the Co. Board meeting on 15^th June. Frank Walsh (Cromane) stated that he was disappointed with the decision. John Clifford (Laune Rangers) pointed out that it was a decision taken by the club.

 

At the end of the year, Mark Kilden, of Kerry’s Eye, chose his team of the most consistent footballers in Kerry in 1992, as follows: Peter O Brien (Dr. Crokes), Brendan Keogh (do.), Liam Hartnett (do.), Morgan Nix (Kerins O Rahillys), Connie Murphy (Dr. Crokes), Sean Burke (Milltown/Castlemaine), Colm Geaney (Dingle), Noel O Leary (Dr. Crokes), Dermot Hannifin (Desmonds), Billy O Shea (Laune Rangers), Willie Maher (Milltown/Castlemaine), Weeshie Lynch (Annascaul), Pat O Shea (Dr. Crokes), Carl O Dwyer (Waterville), Seamus Murphy (St. Pat’s, Blennerville). Of Billy O Shea, he said, ‘Billy had a marvellous year in the colours of club and county. He never stops running at defences and is always in the thick of the action. He has a great brain and pops up at the right place to avail of any defensive lapse. Billy had no serious challengers for selection.’ He listed Laune Rangers at Number 6 in the list of top ten GAA Clubs in the county and John Evans at Number 2 in the list of top trainers in the county.

 

Killorglin Intermediate School played in a rugby competition for the first time on Sat. 14^th Nov, when they travelled to Abbeyfeale to take on the locals in the West-Munster U-18 League. It was   an auspicious, competitive debut and the Killorglin boys secured a 15 -15 draw. Killorglin led at halftime by 10-5, thanks to a try by John McKenna, which was converted by Mícheál Foley and a penalty by Foley. On the resumption, Abbeyfeale levelled but Killorglin took the lead with a try by Ronan Curtayne. The convesion attempt hit the upright. Five minutes from the end, Abbeyfeale scored the equalising try.

Intermediate School: Derry O Donoghue, Donncha Curran, Raymond Tyther, Rory McGrath, Liam Tyther, Billy O Shea, Mike O Sullivan, Colm Conway, Mark Conway (capt.), Mícheál Foley, Ronan Curtayne, Tony O Sullivan, Oliver O Sullivan, Michael Cunningham, John McKenna. Subs: Brian Gannon, John Foley and Joe Joe O Dwyer.

The remainder of the competition was played in the Sprimg of 1993.

 

The AGM of the Laune Rangers Club was held in Scoil Mhuire on 29^th Dec. 1992. The Secretary, Donal Pigott, gave his report as follows: ‘The last year has again brought success to the Laune Rangers Club on the playing fields. Our players and selectors, by their efforts, are keeping our club among the top clubs in the county.

Off the field, the club was involved in many fundraising activities during the year to try to pay off the debt on our new dressingrooms and they are a huge success. The Co. Board draw brought in £7,000. Many feel that the £60 tickets are too expensive but the results speak for themselves. An auction was held towards the end of the year. Items were collected all over the parish and auctioned off and this resulted in almost £4,500 being raised. This was a great success and all who contributed in any way must be thanked and congratulated. It takes a huge effort to raise money but our dressingrooms are surely worth this effort as they are the envy of many clubs throughout the county.

On the playing fields, the club was represented at all grades and acquitted themselves very well. The future of the club, the U-10’s, were handled expertly once again by Seamus Murphy and Willie Fitzgerald on Sunday mornings. Seamus and Willie have given many hours to these young lads and must be thanked for their wholehearted effort. The U-12 team, this year, was handled by James Ferris. They competed in the county league but failed to reach the playoff stages. They defeated Glenbeigh to win the Mid-Kery title. This year, James organised a new invitation only tournament for U-12 teams. The cup was named The Anthony Corkery Memorial Trophy. Austin Stacks, Currow, Kilcummin and Laune Rangers participated and it was appropriate that Laune Rangers won, beating Austin Stacks in a replay. Congratulations to James for this well-organised and well-run event. The U-12B team was handled by Patsy Joy and Bertie Houlihan and again took part in the county league, unfortunately without success.

The U-14A team was trained by Noel O Mahony, who led his team to the county semi-final, where they had to line out without the injured Darragh O Sullivan and they were defeated by Stacks. In the Mid-Kerry Championship, the lads defeated Keel to win the title. The U-14B team was once again trained by Pierce Prendiville and they qualified for the Co. U-14B Final but lost out to Legion. The U-15 team, under the watchful eye of Jerome Conway, surrendered their county title when they were defeated by Austin Stacks in the quarter-final. This year again we entered a team in the Austin Stacks U-13 tournament and the National School won the 15-a-side title for the first time ever.

The U-16 team, trained by Jerome, reached the county semi-final but were defeated by Kerins O Rahillys. However, in the Mid-Kerry Championship, they defeated Beaufort to clinch the title. The Minor team, with trainer Ger Murphy, qualified to meet Gaeltacht in the Co. Minor League Semi-final but had to line out without the injured Paudie Russell, Kevin Jones and Jerry O Brien and were defeated by 3 points. In the Minor Co. Championship, the lads travelled to Cahersiveen to play South-Kerry and lost by a point. This was a game that was there for the taking but, unfortunately, we failed to avail of our scoring opportunities and went out of the competition. This was even harder to accept when South-Kerry won out the minor title. However, the lads bounced back to beat Beaufort to win the Mid-Kerry title. The U-21 team, trained by James Sheehan, with selectors Maurice Corkery and Noel O Mahony, reached the Co. U-21 final but were unfortunate to meet a very good South-Kerry team that proved too strong on the day. Still it was a great achievement to reach the final. The lads also took part in the Duhallow Tournament but, for the second year in a row, they were narrowly defeated in the semi-final.

The 3 senior teams were involved both at District Board and Co. Board level. The ‘C’ team, under Mike O Shea, James Coffey and Dominic Crowley, played in Div. 6 of the Co. League, where they finished fifth and just missed out on a semi-final place. In the Mid-Kerry ‘B’ Championship and the Co. Club ‘C’ Championship, the team was at a huge disadvantage as they were up against ‘B’ teams. However, for a team that began just to give football to the casual player, it has been a great success. The ‘B’ team, under trainer James McInery with selectors Ger Counihan, Maurice Corkery and John Griffin, once again captured the Mid-Kerry ‘B’ Championship, when they defeated a strong Glenbeigh side in the final. In Div. 4, the ‘B’ team was only a kick of a ball away from being involved in the promotion playoffs. In the Club ‘B’ Championship the team went all the way to the final but was deprived of the services of Mike Hassett, John Doona, Owen Joy and James O Shea all because the Co. Board gave us the wrong information. The lads were eventually defeated by 6 points by Kerins O Rahilly’s. The club challenged the Co. Board on the matter but got no hearing.

The senior team, it has to be said, had an up-and-down year, the most disappointing display of all being in the Co. Championship, where we travelled to Moyvane to play Feale Rangers. The lads played well below par and were beaten by what turned out to be a poor Feale Rangers’ team. This result was a major disappointment as the team is capable of doing much better but, however, for the second year-in-a-row we failed to advance beyond the first round. The team was doing better in the league and proving difficult to beat. It proved to be a two-horse race with ourselves and Legion setting the pace and, when we met them in Killarney, we were most fortunate to come away with a draw. This draw set us the road to winning the league. In the Club Championship, we fared no better than we did in the Co. Championship. We played Desmonds and were well-beaten. In the Mid-Kerry competitions, the lads were defeated by Beaufort in the semi-final of the league, thus surrendering a title we held since 1986. In the Mid-Kerry Championship, we defeated Keel in the semi-final and met Beaufort in the final. The team lined out without Paul Griffin and Mike Hassett but turned in a great performance, especially against the breeze, to win the title.

The players, at the moment, are raising money for a trip to the Canaries in March and, hopefully, this will encourage the team to make a huge attack on the Co. Championship in the coming year. As I have already said, this team is good enough to win another championship as they are as good as any team in the county on their day and, hopefully, in 1993 the club and supporters will have a week of celebrations like we had in ’89.

The club had players involved with St. Mary’s hurling team, under trainer John Purcell, this year and we congratulate them and wish them well in the coming year. The club was also represented at county level this year. Mike Hassett turned in some great displays for the Kerry Minors. However, he could not prevent them being beaten by Cork in the Munster Final. The club had three players involved with the Kerry U-21 team – Billy O Shea, Billy O Sullivan and John Doona. They were beaten in the All-Ireland semi-final by Tyrone. Billy O Shea, Bily O Sullivan and Timmy Fleming were on the Kerry senior panel that lost to Clare in the Munster final. When Mickey O Sullivan stepped down and was replaced by Ogie Moran, Tommy Byrne was called into the new panel for the league. Lately, Tommy Byrne and Billy O Shea have been turning in good performances for Kerry.

The club supplied three referees this year to the county – Pat O Shea, Johnny O Shea and John Evans. The club would like to thank them for the time and effort. Membership was again up near the 200 this year. However, it is hoped that all players will take out membership this year so that they will be covered in the case of injury. Registrar, Liam Shannon, did a terrific job collecting the money. The club would like to thank all members for their support both financially and vocally during the year, as both are vital to the success of the club.

Finally, I was hoping to stay on as Secretary for another year but, unfortunately, things did not work out. So I would like to thank the club for electing me as its Secretary, the officers and selectors, that I had the pleasure of working with, for their co-operation and help over the last four years and I would like to wish the incoming Secretary and the club every success for the coming year.’