Kilkenny drew first blood in the Allianz Hurling League with an eight-point defeat of great rivals Tipperary at Nowlan Park. Meeting for the first time since the Cats' 2011 All-Ireland win, the hosts charged into an early lead with Richie Power netting a 12th minute penalty. TJ Reid impressed up front as the hosts built a 1-10 to 0-08 interval lead, while free-taker Pa Bourke led Tipp's scoring with 0-05.
Declan Ryan's side soon reduced the arrears to three points, but Eoin Larkin, who grabbed a 41st minute goal, and top scorer Power (1-11) steered Kilkenny home. Strong in the air and fast on their feet, the Cats were just too sharp for the Munster men this afternoon with Power producing a man-of-the-match performance full of accurate shooting and clever interplay. Tipp manager Ryan handed league debuts to defender Donagh Maher, a brother of Shane Maher, and wing forward Adrian Ryan, who is a first cousin of Gearoid Ryan.
The Cats started the game with eight players who lined out for last September's All-Ireland decider, while Kilkenny had 12 back on board - their three absentees being the retired Eddie Brennan and injured duo Henry Shefflin and Richie Hogan. Colin Fennelly won a first minute free which Power pointed and in a bright opening spell, Noel McGrath levelled with a lovely score from the right. Brendan Cummins, a late inclusion for the visitors, did well to parry Reid's shot from close range, but Power pointed the resulting '65'.
Reid's rousing midfield catch and delivery in set up Matthew Ruth for Kilkenny's third point and Michael Rice, in acres of space, soon added a fourth. Reid continued to catch the eye, soaring high to claim a David Herity puck-out and driving forward for a deserved first point. Kilkenny moved 1-05 to 0-01 ahead after just 12 minutes. Power gathered a ball in from the left sideline and was fouled by Conor O'Mahony for a harshly-awarded penalty which he smashed home himself.
Tipperary had an immediate goal chance at the other end but Noel McGrath was closed down by JJ Delaney and Brian Hogan and eventually kicked the ball wide. Placed balls from O'Mahony and Pa Bourke got wind-backed Tipp into the game, and Gearoid Ryan teed up McGrath for his second point from play. The Premier County outfit continued to improve with Bourke converting a 21st minute free. But Power ended a barren spell for the Cats with a close range free. Approaching the half hour Bourke and Rice swapped further scores, the latter benefiting from a superb flicked pass from Ruth. Pointed frees from Power and Bourke dominated the remainder of the first half, the former tallying up 1-05 over the opening 35 minutes.
However, the home supporters were treated to a smashing late score from play when great interplay between Brian Hogan, Power and Reid set up Larkin for a crisp strike over the bar. Three minutes into the second half, McGrath landed his third point from play after a short free was played into him. Tipp were chipping away at Kilkenny's advantage but just when Bourke had the deficit down to three again, Larkin grabbed his side's second goal. Reid plucked another puck-out down from the sky and passed for Larkin to drive through the heart of the Tipp defence.
With Cummins and the covering Donagh Maher unable to stop him, Larkin did well to stay on his feet and scoop the ball into an empty net. Power added two more frees over the next four minutes, moving the Cats 2-12 to 0-10 clear and the two league points were within their grasp. Colin Fennelly had two opportunities to find the net for Kilkenny but he was hooked for the first, and Donagh Maher also did well to block a goal-bound effort.
Two more frees from Power and an excellent Larkin point from 50 metres cancelled out a Brendan Maher score at the other end. Kilkenny goalkeeper David Herity will have been pleased to keep a clean sheet. John O'Brien soon have netted in the 56th minute after a lovely set-up by Brian O'Meara who fed a pass through off his knees. Despite the Cats' defence was caught off guard for once, O'Brien's angled shot flew wide of the far post and as the intensity dropped, Kilkenny's opening Division 1A victory was a certainty. Tipp substitutes Eoin Kelly and Shane Bourke added a late collection of points, with the latter landing three well-taken scores from play. Fellow substitute James Woodlock raided forward to set up Bourke's second point as the gap was cut to 2-15 to 0-13. Bourke added a third from a tight angle, but Power fittingly closed out the scoring with two more frees.
Scorers - Kilkenny: R Power 1-11 (1-00 pen, 0-10f, 0-01 '65'), E Larkin 1-02, M Rice 0-02, M Ruth, TJ Reid 0-01 each
Tipperary: P Bourke 0-06 (0-05f, 0-01 '65'), N McGrath, S Bourke 0-03 each, C O'Mahony (0-01f), B Maher, E Kelly 0-01 each
KILKENNY: David Herity; Jackie Tyrrell, JJ Delaney, Noel Hickey; Tommy Walsh, Brian Hogan, Paul Murphy; Paddy Hogan, Michael Fennelly; TJ Reid, Michael Rice, Eoin Larkin (capt); Colin Fennelly, Richie Power, Matthew Ruth.
Subs used: Conor Fogarty for Delaney (57 mins), John Mulhall for C Fennelly (63), Richie Doyle for P Hogan (66).
TIPPERARY: Brendan Cummins; Donagh Maher, Paul Curran (capt), Michael Cahill; Shane Maher, Conor O'Mahony, Padraic Maher; Brendan Maher, David Young; Gearoid Ryan, Noel McGrath, Adrian Ryan; Pa Bourke, Brian O'Meara, John O'Brien.
Subs used: James Woodlock for B Maher (17-18 mins, blood sub), Shane Bourke for A Ryan (half-time), Eoin Kelly for G Ryan (49), James Woodlock for O'Brien (57), John O'Keeffe for Curran (60), Shane McGrath for P Bourke (64).
Referee: Michael Wadding (Waterford)
Power inspires Cats to opening day win
Allianz Hurling League Division 1A: Kilkenny 2-17 Tipperary 0-15
Report from the GAA.ie web site
Kilkenny delivered a huge statement of intent at Nowlan Park on Sunday afternoon, opening their 2012 Allianz Hurling League campaign with an impressive eight-point defeat of Tipperary. It was an early-season repeat of last year’s All-Ireland final and once again the Cats proved far too strong, with Richie Power scoring 1-11 of their total in a high-scoring game.
For those of a superstitious nature, the winner of the Allianz League game between the sides in each of the last seasons has gone on to win the All-Ireland final later in the year. Brian Cody, the Kilkenny manager, named 12 of the side that contested last September’s All-Ireland final in his starting XV, while Tipperary started with eight, Brendan Cummins coming in as a late replacement for Darren Gleeson, whose wife gave birth this morning.
Kilkenny had the better of the first half and led by 1-10 to 0-8 at the break, Power converting a 12th minute penalty after he had been fouled in the square. At that stage the Cats led by 1-5 to 0-1, but Tipperary hit the next four points in a row to come back into the game, Pa Bourke hitting a brace and Noel McGrath also getting on the scoreboard.
The Premier County had the gap down to just three points within minutes of the resumption of play, as the prolific Bourke brought his tally for the day to 0-6 and McGrath struck a third from play. Kilkenny, however, hit back ruthlessly, Eoin Larkin forcing the ball over the line for a perfectly timed goal on 41 minutes after a long ball into the Tipperary defence had caused chaos.
Declan Ryan looked to the Tipperary bench to freshen things up and Eoin Kelly and Shane Bourke certainly seemed to liven up the visitors’ attack when they were introduced. Kilkenny were brilliant in defence, though, with Tommy Walsh, imperious under the high ball in the half-back line, once again seeming to deliver his best performances when faced with blue and gold opposition. Two late Power frees saw the 2011 GAA All Star bring his total to 1-11 and Kilkenny cruise to a deserved eight-point win.
ALLIANZ CUMANN NA MBUNSCOL REPORT MONDAY 27TH FEBRUARY BY JOHN MANLEY
REPORTER OF THE WEEK
Well done to this week’s Tipperary Allianz Cumann na mBunscol Reporter of the Week Sadhbh Leahy, 5th class, Leugh N.S. Thurles. The standard was especially high this week and Sadhbh beat off a lot of stiff competition from other Tipperary schools.
2012 HURLING & CAMOGIE FIXTURES
All fixtures for the 2012 Hurling and Camogie Competitions in Under 11 and Under 13 Grades are now posted on the website. The fixtures have also been emailed to all schools. Best of luck to all participating schools.
MY FAVOURITE GAA MEMORY BY SEAN SHANAHAN 6TH CLASS NENAGH CBS
My favourite GAA sporting memory is from the All-Ireland hurling final in 2010. Lar Corbett's 2nd goal will long remain in my mind. The ball came in from the 45yard line, Lar controlled it on his hurl, rounded his opponent and stuck it in the top corner of the net past the Kilkenny 'keeper, PJ Ryan.
All-Ireland Under 21 Final 2010 By Pat Hackett 5th Class Scoil Mochaomhog Naofa Two Mile Borris
It was the day of the 2010 under 21 All Ireland at Semple Stadium and I took my seat in the New Stand. I watched the Tipp team come out of the tunnel. They started the warm up and not long after the Galway team came out. We stood for the Amhrán na bhFiann and the crowd went wild as the referee threw in the ball. The game began. 35 seconds in and suddenly Buggy O Meara scored a great goal. We all jumped with excitement. At that very moment I knew Tipp were going to win the game. It seemed to get dark quickly so they turned on the flood lights. Now the pitch was lit up. Tipp got some great scores and Galway too. Coming up to the end of the game our own Moycarkey club man Kieran Morris came on. He scored 1 point from a free. When the ref blew for full time, everybody was full of joy as Tipperary had comprehensively beaten the Tribesmen. With Buggy O Meara Man of the Match and the Cross of Cashel in its rightful place I would say it was another great night in Thurles.
My Favourite G.A.A Memory By Sadhbh Leahy, 5th class, Leugh N.S. Thurles.
I woke up at 7.30am in the morning, bursting with excitement. My Mom was cooking the breakfast. I ran downstairs. My Dad and I are both proud patrons of our local club, Thurles Sarsfields. We were in our blue and white jerseys. While eating our breakfast the tension in the room was at a dangerous level. All through the morning before the match, it was all I could think about. The clock struck loudly, and it was time to depart. First we went into the clubhouse to see how the rest of the supporters were doing. We paid our admission into the match, and then entered the stadium. The sound of the roaring crowd was blocked out by my concentration – all I wanted to hear was the whistle! My Mom took her seat but I stayed with my Dad. We got to go into the dugout, because Dad knew the trainers. The match began and the first half flashed by. It came to half time, and I bought a chocolate bar and returned to the dug-out. It was coming towards the end of the match and we were winning the just a few seconds to go, ten, nine, eight, seven, six, five, four, three, two, one…… the referee finally blew the whistle, and we ran onto the pitch and congratulated the players for all their hard work. That night we got a take-away to celebrate, and I slept as peacefully as a baby, exhausted from the tension of the match. That game was the best memory I have of G.A.A so far, but I’m looking forward to many more!!!
My Favourite G.A.A Moment By: Bryan O Mara Holycross NS
It was a day that only came around once a year [that was if you were lucky]. On my journey in it was if my legs were about to fall off I was so nervous. I could feel the sun blazing down with great intensity. It was a county final between two of the biggest rivals in Co. Tipperary - Scoil Micheal Naofa and Scoil Ailbhe. This match was going to be one of the biggest challenges of my life, but I approached it as enthusiastically as I possibly could. In the dressing room it was tense and nobody dared to speak. Eventually the jerseys were on, the water was drank, and the helmets ready. We were ready. The long journey down the tunnel felt like we were running for a hundred years seemed to pass before finally a glimpse of light was visible. An opening from the tunnel to the field of legends was in sight. We dashed for the field. We could hear the roar of the crowd and we could see the blazing sun. An epic encounter was about to commence. Scoil Ailbhe were out and their warm up was nearly done, although ours had just began. I tried to stay focused but it was no small feat considering how loud the crowd was. Soon after the referee blew his whistle and the captains were called. In the first half we would play from left to right. The ball was thrown in and the game was on. It was Scoil Ailbhe who were first on the score board with a brilliant goal. But we responded brilliantly and scored three points without reply. Up until half time it was from one side to another. Mr. McGrath spoke words of wisdom at half time to try and get us going again. We dashed out at half time with only one priority on our minds , beat Scoil Ailbhe. The second half was tougher than the first and the umpires were getting sick of picking up the flag and dropping it again! It was a top class match. Fantastic scores from both sides .As the match drew to a close it was very intense. Everyone‘s eyes were riveted on the ball. Before finally what seemed to be an hour of a second half the referee blew the whistle. I let out a deep sigh relief. Yes! We were county champions 2010
TIPPERARY ALLIANZ CUMANN NA MBUNSCOL PLAYERS OF THE WEEK
Name: Michael Fogarty
School: St.Colmcille’s NS Templemore
Favourite Player: Padraig Maher
Favourite G.A.A Moment: Winning the Under 13 Roinn A County Football Final 2011
Favourite Movie: The Rock
Name: Brandon Morrissey
School: St. Colmcille’s N.S Templemore
Favourite Player: Shane McGrath
Favourite G.A.A Moment: Winning the U-13 Roinn A County Football Final 2011
Favourite Movie: Armageddon
Name: Ruairi Mockler
School: St. Colmcille’s Templemore
Favourite Player: Padraig Maher
Favourite G.A.A Moment: Watching Tipperary winning the All Ireland hurling championships in 2010
Favourite Movie: The Fast and the Furious Tokyo drift
PRIMARY GAME SELECTION PROCEDURE 2012 BY AODAN WRENN
We are approaching GAA Championship season again (thank God!) and the Primary Game selection process will be starting again, very soon. This year the schools are being asked to co-operate fully with us. We are asking each school to send one child, and one child ONLY, to Primary Game Selection Days. That is the rules of the Primary Game, and we will be adhering very strictly to that rule, this year. THIS YEAR IF A SCHOOL SENDS MORE THAN ONE PLAYER, BOTH
PLAYERS WILL BE IMMEDIATELY DISQUALIFIED FROM THE SELECTION PROCESS. We will be extremely firm on this issue, this season. It doesn’t always necessarily have to be the best player. It should be the child who deserves it most. There are many ways a school can choose their player: a school skills day, drawing from a hat, sending who you think has the best chance of making the final 11, sending the player who has shown the most improvement etc.. The only exception will be Camogie. In this sport schools may send 2 players if they wish. Remember all Primary Game players must be in 6th class. A player may only be sent once, to one sport only. Example: A boy can’t be sent to football and hurling. Just He may only attend a trial in one code or the other. Same for camogie and ladies football. NB.. The Primary Game Selection days are as follows:
HURLING
North Division Players: Thursday 15th March, at 4.15, in Cloughjordan.
Mid Division Players: Friday 16th March, at 4.15, in the Ragg.
West Division Players: Thursday 22nd March, at 4.15, in Golden.
South Division Players: Friday 23rd March at 4.30pm, in Moyle Rovers.
1 player per school.
CAMOGIE
ALL DIVISIONS: Wednesday 18th APRIL, at 4.15, in Dr. Morris Park (Thurles).
Schools may send 2 girls if they wish.
FOOTBALL
Mid Division Players: Monday 12th March, at 4.15, in Durlas Óg (Thurles).
South Division Players: Wednesday 14th March, at 4.15, in Ardfinnan.
West Division Players: Tuesday 20th March, at 4.15, in Golden.
North Division Players; Wednesday 21st March, at 4.15, in Borrisoleigh.
1 player per school.
LADIES FOOTBALL
North and Mid Division Players: Tuesday 13th March, in Durlas Óg (Thurles), at 4.15.
South and West Division Players: Wednesday 14th March, in Golden, at 4.15.
1 player per school.
EQUIPMENT SCHEME 2012
Aodan Wrenn recently posted the Equipment Scheme Information Letters and order forms to all schools. If teachers wish to know more about specific coaching aids or equipment, please visit http://cumashurling.com/. The Equipment Order Forms should be returned to Jerry McDonnell, 25 Ballingarrane, Clonmel, Co. Tipperary by February 24th at the very latest. Our Equipment Collection Evening will take place in Scoil Ailbhe, Thurles onMonday 12th March between 5.00p.m. and 8.00p.m.
REGISTRATION FEE
The Annual Registration Fee of €30 is now due. Please forward a cheque to Jerry McDonnell, 25 Ballingarrane, Clonmel, Co. Tipperary. Any schools who fail to pay this fee are playing as unregistered schools and therefore should not be participating in Cumann na mBunscol Activities.
TWITTER
For any schools/teachers wishing to access Tipperary Cumann na mBunscol news and updates via Twitter, the Tipperary Cumann na mBunscol Twitter username is @TippCumanNamBun. The following link will enable you to follow us: http://twitter.com/#!/TippCumanNamBun. We would encourage as many teachers and schools as possible to follow us as this will enable you to access information as soon as it becomes available. We thank all the teachers who have become followers of Tipperary Cumann na mBunscol on Twitter. We have got a good reaction from teachers and schools in recent weeks. Our “follower base” is definitely rising! Míle buíochas.
CONTACT CUMANN NA MBUNSCOL
For match reports, fixtures and school GAA news and events, please email Tipperary Cumann na mBunscol PRO John Manley of Dualla NS atpro.cnmb.tipperary@gaa.ie. Website: http://www.cumannnambunscol.tipperary.gaa.ie/. Ní neart go cur le chéile.
The Munster Coaching Conference will give coaches, managers, mentors, teachers and volunteers the opportunity to see and hear at first hand “best practice methods” in relation to a host of very relevant and varied topics in the development of Gaelic Games today and in the future.
The conference provides an ideal opportunity for the association to showcase the work that is currently being undertaken in the areas of Coaching and Games Development. More importantly, it will enable coaches and mentors to network and, at that the same time, meet a number of our outstanding coaches.
Gaelic Games have grown and evolved quite a lot in recent times. Young people to-day demand coaches to challenge them to reach their full potential. Player development now requires the understanding and recognition of the physical and psychology demands on young people as well as the ability to improve the technical ability and tactical awareness of players.
We are so fortunate to have some of the most respected coaches in our games to give presentations to-day. we hope that you will enjoy the conference and that you go home a more knowledgeable and confident coach.
Shattered Dungarvan CBS players must rouse themselves quickly for Sunday’s Dr Harty Cup final after a number of them suffered a heartbreaking defeat in Saturday’s Munster Schools SBHC decider. Ten players who featured for Coláiste na nDéise in the Harty semi-final victory over De La Salle started for Dungarvan CBS on Saturday, but they finished as Corn Phádraig runners-up against a dogged Doon outfit who thoroughly deserved their win. Doon’s first victory in this competition since 1998 was secured by full-forward Russell Quirke six minutes from time, when the Cappawhite youngster took advantage of a defensive mix-up to smash home a cracking goal. Quirke’s strike handed Doon a 2-6 to 0-10 lead and while Dungarvan’s top scorer, Cathal Curran, cut the gap to the minimum in stoppage time, time ran out on the Waterford boys.
Doon selector Diarmuid Carr said: “The school is closed in two years time so we feel this is our last chance to win something before we go into an amalgamation. It’s massive for the lads and they deserve it. Heart and determination won it on the day for us.” The Limerick outfit inflicted a second successive Corn Phádraig defeat on a talented Dungarvan side and goals at crucial times were the difference. Tony Berkery crashed home a stunning goal in the 24th minute after his first shot was blocked and that handed Doon a 1-2 to 0-4 advantage, after they had fallen 0-1 to 0-4 behind with just 11 minutes gone.
Dungarvan endured a 21-minute barren spell on the scoreboard in the first half but trailing by 0-5 to 1-4 at half-time, they would have been content enough having played against the breeze in the first half. And having moved two points clear, 0-10 to 1-5, with less than a quarter of an hour remaining, Dungarvan were firm favourites to claim silverware. But Doon, inspired by Tom Fox at wing-forward, stormed back into contention and ultimately, Quirke’s clinical strike proved decisive. Doon will play St Mary’s of Belfast in the All-Ireland semi-final on March 3.
Scorers for Doon CBS: T Berkery 1-2, R Quirke 1-1 (0-1f), T Fox 0-2, M Dee 0-1.
Scorers for Dungarvan CBS: C Curran 0-6 (5f), C Dunford, C Curran, M Harney, M Kiely and P Curran 0-1 each.
DOON CBS: D Stapleton; C Berkery, R English, J Hayes; Stephen Ryan, Sean Ryan, P Roche; D O’Donovan, T Fox; P Ryan, T Berkery, M Dee; D Coleman, R Quirke, K Stapleton.
Sub: S O’Connell for Stapleton (60+1).
DUNGARVAN CBS: E Kearns; K Looby, T Tobin, S Hyslop; S Hally, C Dunford, K Healy; K Power, Cormac Curran; Cathal Curran, M Harney, M Shine; M Kiely, R Donnelly, P Curran.
Sub: J O’Donnell for Shine (40).
Referee: W Barrett (Tipperary)
Doon CBS players from Tipperary clubs Left to Right, Andrew O'Brien, Russell Quirke, Sean Ryan, Kevin Stapleton, Tom Fox and David Orr
Tipperary commence their Allianz Hurling League Division 1 campaign with a visit to Nowlan Park to play Kilkenny on Sunday next February 26 at 2.30pm. It will be the 62nd league meeting between the two counties with Tipperary leading on 29 wins to 26 for Kilkenny and 6 draws in the previous 61 encounters. The last 2 years games were in Semple Stadium with Kilkenny winning by 1-17 to 1-10 in 2011 and Tipperary winning the snow postponed game in 2010 by 1-14 to 0-13. Their last meeting in Nowlan Park was the group game of 2009 which Kilkenny won comprehensively by 5-17 to 1-12. The referee on Sunday will be Michael Wadding who most people will recall refereed the All Ireland final of 2010 between these 2 sides. We wish the Tipperary players and management the best of luck for Sunday’s game and the league campaign.
MATCH ARRANGEMENTS FOR TIPPERARY V KILKENNY
A large attendance is expected at Nowlan Park on Sunday so supporters are encouraged to travel early. Admission will be €13 for adults to all sections of the Ground, €5 for Students/Senior Citizens with id and free for under 16’s. Season Ticket Stiles are: Hebron Road (New Stand Side) – Stile Nos. 15/16/17/18 and O’Loughlin Road (Old Stand Side) – Stile Nos. 36 & 37. Juvenile Group Admission is through Stile No 23 Ardan O Cearbhaill (New Stand behind Country End Goal). Car Parking: For supporters travelling from Tipperary or North Kilkenny via Urlingford and Freshford a special Match Car Park will be provided in the Old Kilkenny Mart - a five minute walk from Nowlan Park! Please follow the Match Signs from the Freshford Road. For supporters accessing the Ground from the Ring Road parking will be available in O’Loughlin Gaels Ground and the on street parking around Hebron Industrial Estate. Parking is also available in the City Car parks including McDonagh Junction which is located immediately beside Nowlan Park. Details of Car Spaces will be detailed on special signs on all approaches to the City. Pre Match entertainment will be provided by St Patrick’s Brass and Reed Band from 1.45.
TIPPERARY PREMIER GOLD CLUB PLUS
Tipperary County Board have just launched the new Premier Gold Club Plus Package in Association with the GAA Season ticket (Seewww.tipperary.gaa.ie for brochure). The benefits of this package can be enjoyed for the next 15 months in the following ways: 1) From Feb 2012 to Sept 2012 - Support & follow the Tipperary SH team (or SF) through Allianz League & GAA Championship; 2) From Mar 2012 to Dec 2012 - attend all Tipperary Co. Finals (From minor up); 3) From May 2012 to April 2013, receive a full year's membership of the Tipperary GAA County Board Draw. This promotion offers fantastic value for Tipperary GAA Supporters and enables Tipperary Co. Board develop its Dr Morris Park facilities, prepare county teams and promote Gaelic Games throughout the County. Current Season Ticket can upgrade to this Package by deducting what they have already paid for the Season Ticket and pay the balance as explained in the brochure. Fully completed application forms to be forwarded to Tim Floyd, Runaí Choiste Chontae Thiobraíd Árann, Lar Na Páirce, Thurles, Co. Tipperary. Any queries contact Lar Na Páirce on (0504) 22702 or Tim Floyd atsecretary.tipperary@gaa.ie.
SUPOPRTERS CLUB GET TOGETHER IN KILKENNY
The Tipperary Supporters Club will hold a get together for members in The Pembroke Hotel, Patrick Street in the centre of Kilkenny immediately afterthis Sunday’s match. Come along and enjoy complimentary finger food, tea and coffee and take part in the draw for a Tipperary Jersey signed by the SH Panel. This event is kindly sponsored by the sponsors of the membership scheme www.ryanmotorpower.com and by Tipperary man John Ryan of kilkennypembrokehotel.com.
INTER PROVINCIAL SEMI-FINALS
Hard luck to the Munster hurlers on their 3-14 to 1-16 defeat to Leinster in the Interprovincials semi-final at Nowlan Park on Sunday last. The Munster team was managed by Liam Sheedy with Eamon O’Shea as coach. Eoin Kelly was captain and other Tipperary players to feature were Paul Curran, Michael Cahill, Padraic Maher, Shane McGrath, Brendan Maher and Gearoid Ryan.
DR. HARTY CUP FINAL
Good luck to Nenagh CBS for the Dr. Harty Cup Munster Colleges Senior Hurling final against Colaisti na nDeise on Sunday next, February 26 at Leahy Park, Cashel at 2.30pm. Both colleges will be seeking their first title in this competition so there are sure to be great celebrations for whichever team wins. Its 15 years since Nenagh CBS reached the decider when they lost to St. Colman’s Fermoy for the second year in a row. They lost to St. Flannan’s Ennis in the 1990 decider. Nenagh will be attempting to follow in the footsteps of other CBS schools in the county which have won this prestigious title – Thurles CBS (7), Abbey CBS Tipperary (1) and Templemore CBS (1). Rockwell College also won the Munster Colleges title 5 times including 1918, the competition’s inaugural year.
Coiste Chontae Thiobraid Árann is offering a limited number of Gaeltacht Scholarships to 2nd level students in the county. Application forms are now with the clubs. These scholarships are limited to those students currently in 2nd, 5th and Transition Years. Closing date for applications is WednesdayFebruary 29 2012. Please note that students who have already booked a place in a Gaeltacht College and paid the deposit cannot avail of this scheme. These scholarships are only available in 3 Munster Colleges as follows: 1. Coláistí Chorca Dhuibhne, Baile an Fheirtéaraigh, Trá Lí, Co Chiarraí. (2 Options); 2. Coláiste Na Mumhan, Beal Athan Ghaorthaidh, Co. Chorcai (2 Options); 3 Coláiste na Rinne, Co. Phort Lairge (1 Option). Application forms must be signed by the relevant club and divisional secretary and returned to An Runaí, Coiste Chontae Thiobraid Árann, Lar Na Páirce, Durlas Éile Co. Tiobraid Árann before the closing date. During early March suitable candidates will be called for interview and all applicants will receive a response by mid March. Is deis iontach iad seo chun an Ghaeilge a fheabhsú i gceantar Gaeltachta.
SCÓR NA BPÁISTÍ
All roads led to Castlebar on Saturday last to Craobh na hÉireann i Scór na nÓg 2012. The Royal Theatre was the venue for the excellent and unique entertainment provided in the various disciplines. Our girls from Upperchurch Drombane Cáit, Gretta, Máiréad, Christine and Aisling sang The Derry Air and Whistling Phil McHugh to a spellbound audience and though Ferbane/Belmont took the honours bhí na cailíni thar barr agus dhein siad éacht. Tá bród orainn go léir astu agus tá moladh thar na bearta tuillte acu agus as a dtuistí uile. Chuir muintir an pharóiste fáilte rompu tráthnóna Dé Domhnaigh ag ceiliúradh i halla an pharóiste where family, friends, supporters, GAA and Scór representatives paid tribute to the girls on their achievements in the last year. Maith sibh a chailíní. Your club and county are proud of you.
SCÓR SINSEAR
The County semi-finals of Scor Sinsear will both be held this SaturdayFebruary 25 at 8pm. The semi-final for West and North divisions will be held in the Marian Hall, Borrisoleigh, and the one for South and Mid divisions will take place in Muintir na Tire Hall, Littleton. The County final will be in Clonmore on SaturdayMarch 3. Good luck to all the participants.
TRÁTH NA GCEIST 2012
Clubs are reminded of the Munster Final of Tráth na gCeist which will take place in Mallow in the first week of March. Tá cóipeanna de na ceisteanna ó 2011.2010, 2009,2008 ar fáil ón Oifigeach Cultúir (irishculturalofficer.tipperary@gaa.ie) ach glao a chur. Bígí ag cleachtadh - cleachtadh a dhéanann máistreacht.
DOON CBS CORN PHADRAIG MUNSTER CHAMPIONS
Well done to Doon CBS on capturing the Corn Phadraig (Munster Senior Colleges B) trophy after a hard fought win against a much fancied Dungarvan CBS team on Saturday in Cahir. The scoreline was 2-6 to 0-11. Doon CBS last won this trophy in 1998. There was a significant Tipperary involvement. Sean Ryan of Cappawhite was team captain, Russell Quirke of Cappawhite scored a vital goal late on. Tom Fox of Annacarty scored two points from midfield. Kevin Stapleton (Cappawhite) was corner forward and David Orr (Cappawhite) and Andrew O'Brien (Sean Treacys) were panellists. Micheál Hassett (Moycarkey Borris) and Diarmaid Carr (Golden Kilfeacle) formed the management team. Interestingly on the last two occassions that Doon CBS won the Corn Phadraig they also had Tipperary captains. Shane McDermott in 1998 (Cappawhite) and Paul Keane 1995 (Eire Og Annacarty).
TIPPERARY GAA SCENE
Information concerning all areas in the GAA will appear in this section in the future. If you wish to include any item of interest in future articles, please contact the County Public Relations Officer Ger Ryan at 086-8149146 or via e-mail at pro.tipperary@gaa.ie on or before 3: 0pm on Monday. Visit the Tipperary GAA web site at http://tipperary.gaa.ie to keep up to date with all the latest news in Tipperary GAA circles.
With the season preliminaries over it’s the real deal this weekend as the 2012 league campaign kicks off. For the third year in succession Tipperary and Kilkenny supply the glamour opening, this time at Nowlan Park. With both sides showing earnest intent in the lead-in it promises to be a fitting launch to the new season.
Elsewhere – and most regrettably – the Harty final at Cashel clashes with the Kilkenny fixture. Nenagh CBS, following their memorable replay success over Ard Scoil Ris last week, carry Tipperary hopes against the Waterford Colleges from Dungarvan. In other news it promises – or threatens! – to be a crunch week on the relegation issue as well as the payment for managers debate.
So, here we go once again, back hip-to-hip with Kilkenny for a season opener, one that on past experience has the potential to set the tone for the year. The hurling story of the past three years has been a Tipp/Kilkenny saga so it’s inevitable that Croke Park would set this one up to glamorise the league launch. Given past history between the sides there’s much at stake, markers to be laid down and so forth, so one can reasonably assume a degree of passion from both sides on Sunday.
There’s no doubt Tipperary go in this time in far better fettle than a year ago, though on recent evidence Kilkenny are taking matters very seriously too. We go in without Lar of course – he wasn’t there last year either - and also minus the injured pair of Patrick Maher and Seamus Callanan. Otherwise we will presumably go with maximum thrust for a fixture of such key importance.
The selection options start at number one and whether to opt for the tried and trusted experience of Cummins or the newer option in Darren Gleeson. Cummins got little enough play-time during January but may be needed by his club on Saturday if that relegation goes ahead. The right corner of defence presents some possibilities. Paddy Stapleton is back in the reckoning after being college-tied with UL earlier and Conor O’Brien has been the choice in recent games. Interesting to see who slots in beside Curran and Cahill. On recent evidence the half line might see O’Mahony in between the Mahers, Shane and Padraig.
A likely combination at midfield is Shane McGrath and Brendan Maher unless one or other is required on the half forward line. David Young, James Woodlock and possibly Johnny Ryan come into consideration here also.
With three of last September’s forward division unavailable the attack I’m sure will occupy the minds of the management more than the defence. You’d expect John O’Brien, Eoin Kelly and Gearoid Ryan to be on board. On recent form Brian O’Meara will surely be a starter also. Noel McGrath should be back from college duty with UCD to add options to the half line. Interesting to see if Adrian Ryan’s recent form is tested against the Kilkenny defence and then you have the likes of Pa Bourke, John O’Neill and possibly Sean Curran in the mix. That attack is likely to be the most problematic area of the team given the absentees.
There’s no doubt that if you want to test a side’s credentials the examinations don’t come any stiffer than Kilkenny at Nowlan Park. All Ireland champions sometimes start into a new year quite blasé about the early rounds of the league as they hold their fire for later in the season. Not Kilkenny though. All the evidence thus far is that Cody is setting out his stall early. He sent a very strong side out to dispense with Galway in the Walsh Cup recently and of course eleven of his troops backboned the Leinster team in the inter-provincial last weekend.
Much has been made of the Kilkenny retirements but Eddie Brennan is the only first-choice loss. The others had all slipped to the fringes of the team so I suspect their departures won’t unduly disturb Cody’s sleep pattern. Kilkenny’s entire All Ireland defence fielded last week against Munster so I’d expect the same this Sunday in front of goalie, David Herity. It’s a formidable bulwark against a Tipp attack short on options.
The All Ireland midfield partnership of Fennelly and Rice played last week also so presumably it could be more of the same on Sunday.
With Henry Shefflin out for some time and Eddie Brennan in retirement the Kilkenny attack will face some alteration from that which operated last September. Richie Hogan, Richie Power and Eoin Larkin all started against Munster and Colin Fennelly came on during the game. Presumably we’ll see all four in action this time. T.J. Reid offers options to the manager too with perhaps some minor experimentation on view.
There’s no doubt Cody will want to win this game, just as a reminder that the old order remains firmly in place. Likewise Declan Ryan and colleagues, I’m sure, would like to upset that same order and plant a marker for the remainder of the year. It should result in a lively, even revealing, collision
A most unfortunate clash on Sunday sees the Harty Cup final going ahead at Cashel in direct opposition to Nowlan Park. Given Nenagh CBS’s exciting win over Ard Scoil during the week this dividing of Tipperary loyalties seems utterly senseless. The Harty is a huge competition hereabouts and a simple switch to Saturday seemed an obvious solution – obvious to most followers, that is, but not the organisers who’ve stuck stubbornly to the original arrangement.
I readily acknowledge the valiant efforts of Tom Collum to avoid this clash but sadly others were not so amenable. There’s something pathetic about a situation where different branches of the GAA operate independent republics with no trace of joined-up thinking. On the one hand you have Croke Park plugging this ‘dead horse’ inter-provincial series – only fifteen hundred approx turned up at Nowlan Park last Sunday. Against that you have a Harty Cup competition where a Tuesday semi-final replay could clog up Tipperary town such was the public interest. Yet the schools’ organisers seem as oblivious to public opinion as Croke Park is on the issue of the inter-provincials.
Anyway the big story of this Harty Cup has been the emergence of Nenagh CBS as the dark horses of the competition. Having ditched Thurles CBS and holders Ard Scoil out of the reckoning they’re now one game away from history.
The story of their semi-final replay win over Ard Scoil was dominated by the individual exploits of Jason Forde, scorer of 1-10 out of 1-11. It was an extraordinary contribution by the Silvermines hurler, one that will live in the annals of this famed competition, though perhaps embracing a slight worry also since so much depended on one player.
Nenagh’s search for a first-ever Harty win now hinges on a final against a team drawn from the combined forces of Dungarvan CBS and St. Augustan’s. Interestingly the bulk of the Waterford side played for CBS last Saturday when losing the ‘B’ Munster final to Doon CBS by a single point. A cracking goal by Cappawhite’s Russell Quirke and an inspirational display by Annacarty’s Tom Fox (nephew of Pat) were isolated in reports as key ingredients in the Doon win. It was a memorable success for a school that’s due to disappear into an amalgamation in a few years.
Anyway good luck to Nenagh in their quest to join Rockwell College, Templemore CBS, Thurles CBS and Abbey CBS as Tipperary Harty Cup winners.
The ongoing relegation issue is set for a major showdown this week. The clash of Ballybacon and Borrisokane is set for Templemorethis Saturday but the North team is seeking a deferment again to enable them prepare properly for the game. With the CCC adamant that the game goes on and Borrisokane insistent that they need more time a clash seems inevitable.
This is the latest episode in this tiresome saga. In fairness to Borrisokane they spent months in limbo as the various board room rounds were played out between Ballybacon, Cashel and the CCC. They must have hoped that the County Board would somehow see sense and abandon relegation for one year but instead they now find themselves facing a real dilemma: to play or not to play, to risk everything on a game that they’ve had little preparation for or else try their chances in the board room.
Critically Borrisokane have not said they won’t play the game; their plea is for space to properly prepare. My understanding at writing time is that they won’t play next Saturday if the fixture is persisted with, which would result in a head-on clash with the CCC. If Ballybacon are awarded the game will they accept it? Again there’s a suggestion that they won’t. We await developments.
Finally this debate about payment for managers looks like reaching some sort of conclusion this week with the various county bodies making their feelings known to Croke Park. It seems a more stringent enforcement of present rules is the favoured option emerging from most counties who appear to baulk at the prospect of officially sanctioning such payments.
I suspect Padraic Duffy may be sorry he even raised the issue at this stage because what’s emerging is an utter fudge.
Having listened to spokespersons from various counties in recent times I find the stench of hypocrisy on this issue nauseating. Everyone knows the reality of payments to managers within the GAA and yet you have these guys coming out barefacedly claiming to be opposed to such deals.
Even in Tipperary we’re told there’s no appetite for payments to managers. Really? So team managers throughout Tipperary are not being paid? For God’s sake let’s at least be honest in this debate.
In typically Irish fashion it appears to be a case of doing one thing and saying the opposite. On present evidence the GAA will now opt for a stricter enforcement of present rules which will allow every board and club continue with their under-the-counter payments while publically professing to be against them. As I said, hypocrisy.
Boherlahan had a w/o against Gortnahoe –Glengoole in Rd 1 of this years U-21 B championship.
In Rd 1 of the A championship Moyne – Templetuohy Og who defeated Thurles Sarsfields in the Preliminary Rd last week played last year’s Mid champions Loughmore – Castleiney and Loughmore came out on top with the final score Loughmore 4-9 to Moyne –Templetuohy Og’s 1-8.
Moycarkey –Borris
The club are holding a Table Quiz this coming Friday 24th of February in Bannons Lounge. Table of 4 is 20 euro. Your support would be very much appreciated.
Tipperary GAA Premier Gold Package
Tipperary County Board have just launched the new Premier Gold Club + Package in Association with the GAA Season ticket. The benefits of this package can be enjoyed for the next 15 months in the following ways:
• From Feb 2012 to Sept 2012 – Support & follow the Tipperary SH team (or SF) through Allianz League & GAA Championship
• From Mar 2012 to Dec 2012 – attend all Tipperary Co. Finals (From minor up)
• From May 2012 to April 2013, receive a full year’s membership of the Tipperary GAA County Board Draw.
All for just €200
This promotion offers fantastic value for Tipperary GAA Supporters and enables Tipperary Co. Board develop its Dr Morris Park facilities, prepare county teams and promote gaelic games throughout the County.
Current Season Ticket can upgrade to this Package by deducting what they have already paid for the Season Ticket and pay the balance.
Fully completed application forms to be forwarded to:
Tim Floyd, Runaí Choiste Chontae Thiobraíd Árann, Lar Na Páirce, Thurles, Co. Tipperary.
Any queries contact Lar Na Páirce (0504) 22702
Email: secretary.tipperary@gaa.ie
Dr Harty Cup Final
Best of luck to Nenagh CBS who play Colaiste Na Deise in the Dr. Harty Cup Final on SundayFebruary 26th at 2:30pm in Leahy Park Cashel.
Scor
Congratulations to Upperchurch/Drombane Bailead Ghrupa on reaching the All-Ireland of Scor na nOg which took place in Castlebar last weekend. .. Well done to Cait Ryan, Gretta Ryan, Margaret Gleeson, CHristine Bourke, and Aisling Harrington.
The two semi-finals of Scor Sinsear will both be held this Saturday 25th February. The West and North will be held in the Marian Hall, Borrisoleigh, and the South and Mid will take place in Muintir na Tire Hall, Littleton. Start time 8p.m.
The County final of Scor Sinsear will be in Clonmore on Saturday 3rd March. The Munster semi-final with Tipp interest is in Tallow onSunday 11th March at 3p.m. The Munster final will be in St. Mary's Secondary School, Templemore on 31st March. The All-Ireland will be in Killarney probably Saturday 28th April.
Kilkenny will play Tipperary in round 1 of the Allianz Hurling League Division 1A on Sunday February 26th at 2:30pm at Nowlan Park Kilkenny.
Fixture Details
26.02.2012 (Sun)
Allianz Hurling League Roinn 1A Round 1
Nowlan PK 2.30pm
Cill Chainnigh v Tiobraid Árann
Referee: Michael Wadding (Port Láirge)
Match Coverage
This game will be shown live on TG4
Match Information
Admission: €13 to all sections of the Ground
Students/Senior Citizens: €5
Under 16’s: Free
Season Ticket Stiles: Hebron Road (New Stand Side) Stile Nos. 15/16/17/18
O’Loughlin Road (Old Stand Side) Stile Nos. 36 & 37
Juvenile Group Admission is through Stile No 23 Ardan O Cearbhaill (New Stand behind Country End Goal)
Car Parking
For supporters travelling from Tipperary or North Kilkenny via Urlingford and Freshford a special Match Car Park will be provided in the Old Kilkenny Mart - a five minute walk from Nowlan Park! Please follow the Match Signs from the Freshford Road. For supporters accessing the Ground from the Ring Road parking will be available in O’Loughlin Gael’s Ground and the on street parking around Hebron Industrial Estate. Parking is also available in the City Car parks including Mc Donagh Junction which is located immediately beside Nowlan Park. Details of Car Spaces will be detailed on special signs on all approaches to the City.
As a big crowd is anticipated for this eagerly awaited tie supporters are encouraged to travel in good time and arrive at the Ground early. Pre Match entertainment will be provided by St Patrick’s Brass and Reed Band from 1.45. Kilkenny GAA looks forward to welcoming all our hurling friends from Tipperary to Nowlan Park.
