Blackhill
Blackhill Emeralds G.F.C. club notes
Ulster U21 Club Championship Semi Final.
Emerald Sarsfields (Monaghan) 2-07 Bryansford (Down) 0-16
Emerald Sarsfields (Blackhill/Oram) journey finally came to an end on Sunday in the semi final of the Ulster U-21 Champions Tournament in Creggan. The team battled bravely against the odds but a powerful Bryansford team held a decisive advantage in the middle of the park throughout with David McKibbin outstanding. The teams went in level at half time with Ciarán Courtney finishing to the net sharply after captain Phillip Donnellys shot was too hot for the Down net minder to hold, (1-04 0-07) Following the break a brace of Michael Geehan points had our team ahead by two and chances were passed up to extend that lead before Bryansford aided by the introduction of Down senior player Chris Clark hit a decisive purple patch from the 45th -55th minutes. Donal Courtney and two superb Berat Turker saves held Bryansford ‘s star forward Danny Savage to four points from play over the hour. It was a tribute to our boys that they remained in the game right to the final whistle. A third point from Pauric Graham and a second goal credited to Ciarán Courtney reduced the margin to three points as time ran out. Bryansford were deserving victors on the day and we wish them the best of luck in next Sundays final against Ballinderry Shamrocks. Our players have taken us on a journey never seen before and have brought great pride to both clubs. The U-21 grade has provided an excellent bridge in recent years for our emerging players, and the 2012 competition was expertly planned by Michael Burns providing a six week coherent competition.
Emerald Sarsfields Team
Berat Turker, Cathal Crowe, Donal Courtney, Chrissie McGuinness, Matthew McArdle, Ryan McGuinness, Dean McDermott, Daniel Forde,Anthony Courtney, Ciarán Costello, Ryan Courtney, Ciarán Courtney, Michael Geehan, Phillip Donnelly (Captain), Pauric Graham. Subs used:Tony Forde, Daniel McMahon, Jason Finnegan. Panel: Kevin Irwin, Tiarnan Lanney, Fintan McArdle, Daire Morris, Conor Murphy,David O Neill, Andrew Burns.
Emerald Sarsfields Scorers: Ciaran Courtney (2-1), Pauric Graham (0-3)(3f), Michael Geehan (0-2), Phillip Donnelly (0-1).
Management: Tony Graham, Paul West, Barry Quinn & John Costello.
Appreciation
Special thank you to Noeleen, Joan, Marie, Helen, Marion, Bernie and Hannah who prepared breakfast for the U21 team early on Sunday morning and also provided the post-match meal that evening. We would also like to express our sincere gratitude to the great number of gaels who made the effort to come and support the team.
Championship draws
Reserve: Blackhill v Eire Óg
Minor: Emerald Sarsfields v Castleblayney
Lotto
1st Trisha Conlon, Culoville.
2nd Niall Donnelly, Tattygar.
3rd Bernie Conlon, Bree.
