A great day of football took place in DCU on Wednesday last, as the annual Philip Mc Kenna 7’s competition took place. The weather made the day a great spectacle with quality football on display from various teams across three provinces. Our Lady’s got off to a great start in the group stages with strong performances against Colaiste Eoin and Newbridge ensuring they finished top of their table guaranteeing them a spot in the cup quarter finals. The team were well drilled with the quality of football matched by a work rate and intensity that was second to none. . A tough draw for the quarter final saw the boys play St Pat’s Navan a school with a strong tradition of winning Leinster schools competitions. However Our Lady’s quality use of possession and superior work rate saw the boys eventually break down St Pat’s tough exterior and make their way to the semi final of the competition. In the semi final Our Lady’s met St Kevin’s Dublin and goals were the deciding factor in this game as Our Lady’s unerring accuracy won them not only the match but a host of admirers from those present. In the final Our Lady’s faced the toughest opposition of the day playing Knockbeg College a school known for winning several Hogan Cups. Our Lady’s took the game to their opponents with a work rate, honesty and accuracy that characterised their earlier performances. At half time our Lady’s led by 7 points which gave the team a fantastic foothold for the second half. Our Lady’s closed out the game late on in the second half to become deserving winners.

Both coaches Mr. Bishop and Mr. Graham expressed their delight and pride in the team after winning the competition and paid tribute to DCU for a well organised competition.

Team: Hugh Mc Ginn, Calum Blanche, Tommy Geehan, Frank Connolly, Aaron Courtney, James Wilson, David Hanley, Tiernan Duffy, Eoin Markey, John Gorman, Kieran Duffy, Stephen Blessing.

DCU Team: Pictured are Our Lady’s Castleblayney who won the DCU Philip McKenna 7’s Cup last week, overcoming tough competition from schools with strong winning traditions across three provinces. They are pictured here with coaches, Darren Bishop and Tony Graham

DCU Frank

Frank Connolly is seen here receiving the trophy which was duly named after a stalwart of Monaghan and DCU football the late Philip Mc Kenna. Frank was also selected as the player of the tournament for his performances throughout the day.