Junior Championship: Blackhill progressed to the first round of the championship proper after a hard fought victory over Clones last Saturday evening in Inniskeen. Blackhill found themselves on the back foot in the opening exchanges with Clones settling much the better, hitting for 2-3 early on with Blackhill still with only 2 points on the scoreboard. A quick fire response was needed and was provided by Colin Woods with a goal. The rest of the first half was played at a frantic speed with some fine passages of play and some wonderful point taking on display from both sides, Ryan Courtney’s effort from the outside of his boot leaving Blackhill only 2 in arrears at the break. The 2^nd half was not for the faint hearted either, although probably a slightly more cagey affair now with defences coming more into the game, Donal Courtney impressing at full back and Tommy Geehan putting in a great performance on his championship debut. With only 10 minutes to play, the sides were level. It was Clones who pushed on at this stage, claiming the next 3 points. But Blackhill were not to be denied on this occasion, with Paul Finnegan rifling the ball to the net after a goal mouth scramble. The next play saw Blackhill win a free 35 metres out. It was converted by Dermot Daly to give Blackhill the lead for the first time as the game entered stoppage time. James Daly added a fisted point to leave the final score at Blackhill 2-12 Clones 2-10.

Crawley Cup: Blackhill take on neighbours Drumhowan in the semi final of the Crawley Cup on Saturday evening. The match is in Blackhill with a 7pm throw in time. The reserves next league game is away to Séans next Wednesday (25^th).

Juveniles: The Under 8 team put in a fantastic performance in the All County Blitz played at Cloghan last Saturday morning. Well done to all involved. Training continues for Under 10s, U8s and U6s on Saturday morning at 11am in the field, weather permitting.

Emerald’s Weekly Draw: 1^st Sir Gene Murphy, Formil. 2^nd Brian Mc Manus, Grig. 3^rd Jennifer Murphy, Formil.