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Junior B’s go Fourth!

Mid Cork JBHC

Blarney 2-14 Dripsey 1-6 (21/09/08)

Reigning champions Blarney began their pursuit of a fourth Mid Cork title in a row with victory over Dripsey in Ballincollig. While the final score suggests it was a relatively easy passage for Blarney – it was only in the last ten minutes that they pulled away from a dogged opposition. In a blistering finale, the champs chalked up 2-5 without reply, to finish winners on a scoreline of 2-14 to 1-6. 

Blarney led 0-6 to 0-4 at the half way mark – thanks to a brace of points from Sean O’Sullivan and Sean Lyons plus one each by Tomas Barrett and Eamonn McSweeney. 

By the end of the third quarter, the margin increased to three points in Blarney’s favour. Five minutes later it was all square as Dripsey hit the game’s first goal - and the balance seemed to have shifted the challenger’s way. However budding star Tomas Barrett had other ideas -rattling off four points in quick succession. Substitute Mark O’Leary got in the scoring act, while O’Sullivan’s persistence paid off with a well taken goal. 

Fittingly the coup de grace fell to Barrett, who found the net to boost his personal contribution to 1-5. 

Blarney’s path to a historic fourth successive championship title   remains firmly on course.  And with veterans of the previous three campaigns in James Duggan and Stephen O’Riordan at the helm – it would take a brave man to bet against them reaching their goal. 

They now await the winners of Grenagh and Inniscarra in the second round.  And for good measure, their latest victory also so secures a league final appearance against Kilmichael.

Blarney: Richard O’Shea; Colm O’Donoghue, Julian O’Donoghue, Eoin Murphy; James Duggan, Stephen O’Riordan, William Meehan; Noel McCarthy (capt), Tomas Barrett; Fergus O’Rourke, Michael Horgan, Daniel O’Donovan; Sean Lyons, Sean O’Sullivan, Eamonn McSweeney.

Subs: Mark O’Leary, Cian O’Mahony, Jody Quirke, Paul O’Donovan.

Scorers: Tomas Barrett 1-5, Sean O’Sullivan 1-2, Sean Lyons 0-2, Eamonn McSweeney 0-1.Fergus O’Rourke 0-1, Noel McCarthy 0-1, Cian O’Mahony 0-1, Mark O’Leary 0-1. 

                                  Under 21s Top Mid Cork!

                                      Mid Cork U21HC final

                                    Blarney 1-8 Inniscarra 0-8 (20/09/08)

Blarney U21 hurlers came from behind to defeat Inniscarra in Saturday’s Mid Cork Championship final played in Ovens. With twenty minutes remaining, the title seemed destined to be heading to Blarney’s oldest rivals across the Shournagh River. But the reds had other ideas, and in end it was their battling qualities that won the day.

With so much local pride at the stake – this match was never going to be a classic.  However, it compensated with passion and honest endeavour, which kept the large attendance on their toes until the final whistle.

Scores were hard to come by in a dour first half dominated by defences. ‘Scarra took an early lead – but it was cancelled out by a long range point from Mark Cremin. A further Inniscarra point and second by Cremin tied the scores at the quarter hour stage.  Three unanswered minors gave ‘Scarra a half time lead 0-5 to 0-2. 

Blarney looked in trouble as their opponents stretched their advantage to five points on the resumption. But within four minutes they were level - Cremin converted a free; Colin Murphy pointed and pounced for a goal. Cremin’s ’65 put Blarney in front for the first time – before ‘Scarra immediately restored parity. But it was Inniscarra’s last hurrah as the reds took control. 

Two Cremin frees brought his personal tally to 0-6 – and Sean Walsh had the last say with the best point of the day. Blarney were champions on a final scoreline of 1-8 to 0-8. 

Apart from the aforementioned scorers - others to impress for the winners included Paul O’Leary at full back and midfield dynamo Robbie White. While the entire half back combination of Joe Jordan and the O’Connor brothers Conor and Michael were superb.  

Blarney: Trevor Hegarty; Eoin Murphy, Paul O’Leary, Johnny Barrett; Conor O’Reilly, Joe Jordan (capt), Michael O’Reilly; Sean Twomey, Robbie White; Jack O’Regan, Sean Walsh, Pa O’Sullivan; Mark Cremin, Richie Pinfield, Colin Murphy.  

Sub: Mark O’Leary for Pinfield, Tomas Barrett for Pinfield, Cian O’Shea for Murphy.

Scorers: Mark Cremin 0-6 (0-4f) 0-1 ’65), Sean Walsh 0-1. Colin Murphy 1-1

                                        Mid Cork U21HC S/F

                        Blarney 3-8 Ballincollig 1-10  (02/09/08)

Blarney advanced to the Mid Cork U21HC final –thanks to an exciting victory over Ballincollig in Ballyanly on Tuesday evening (2 September).

Reigning champions ‘Collig took the lead with a well taken point in the opening minute. But Blarney’s response was immediate – Pa O’Sullivan finding the net from close range. Mark Cremin’s two pointed frees increased the reds advantage to four points. Ballincollig responded like champions – scoring a goal and three points on the bounce.

Successive ‘minors’ by Colin Murphy and Sean Twomey restored parity – before ‘Collig’s fifth white flag put them 1-5 to 1-4 to the good at half time.

 On the resumption, Cremin, Sean Walsh and O’Sullivan swapped points with their opponents. Substitute Mark O’Leary’s 40th minute goal swung the game back in Blarney’s favour. ‘Collig narrowed the gap to the minimum – but Blarney’s tails were up. Jack O’Regan pounced for his team’s third major and Cremin converted his fourth free.

The last point of the day went to Ballincollig - but Blarney had the final say - winning on a scoreline of 3-8 to 1-10.

Blarney can be proud of a great team performance – none more so than Joe Jordan, a Cork senior star in the making.

The winners of Inniscarra and Cloughduv will play Blarney in the Mid Cork final.

Blarney: Trevor Hegarty; Eoin Murphy, Paul O’Leary, Johnny Barrett; Jack O’Regan, Joe Jordan, Michael O’Reilly; Sean Twomey, Robbie White; Conor O’Reilly, Sean Walsh, Pa O’Sullivan; Mark Cremin, Colin Murphy. Tomas Barrett.

Sub: Mark O’Leary for Barrett.

Scorers: Pa O’Sullivan 1-1, Mark Cremin 0-4 (0-4f), Mark O’Leary 1-0, Jack O’Regan 1-0, Sean Twomey 0-1, Sean Walsh 0-1.Pa O’Sullivan 1-1. Colin Murphy 0-1

Mid Cork U21HC
 
Blarney 0-9 Aghabullogue 0-6  (23/08/08)
 
Blarney advanced to the semi final of the Mid Cork U21HC following a hard earned victory over Aghabullogue at rain swept Donoughmore on Saturday 23 August. 
The first half was played in a downpour, which made good hurling virtually impossible. Mark Cremin opened the scoring with a long range free in the first minute. The remainder of the half produced just two
further points - both registered by Aghabullogue. Conditions improved on the resumption – and so did the hurling. Aghabullogue stretched their lead from a 65. Four points on the bounce from Brian Jordan, Sean
Twomey, Pa O’Sullivan and Joe Jordan put Blarney two points to the good. Aghabullogue narrowed the gap to the minimum – but Sean Walsh, Robbie White and Joe Jordan gave the reds a 0-8 to 0-5 advantage. 
A brace of white flags by Aghabullogue set up a nail-biting conclusion. But the match finished as it started – Mark Cremin landing a free to make the final score 0-9 to 0-6 in Blarney’s favour. Credit to the players on both
teams and the referee on providing a sporting spectacle on a miserable evening.
 
Blarney: Trevor Hegarty; Eoin Murphy, Paul O’Leary, Padraig Conway; Jack O’Regan, Joe Jordan, Johnny Barrett; Sean Twomey, Robbie White; Tomas Barrett, Sean Walsh, Pa O’Sullivan; Mark Cremin, Brian Jordan, Colin Murphy.   Sub: Mark O’Leary for Brian Jordan. 
Scorers; Mark Cremin 0-2 (0-2f), Joe Jordan 0-2, Brian Jordan 0-1, Pa O’Sullivan 0-1, Sean Twomey 0-1, Sean Walsh 0-1, Robbie White 0-1.

                            King James saves Blarney:

                                          Cork PIHC

                   Blarney 1-11 Ballincollig 0-13 (18/07/08)

James O’Sullivan’s goal in the dying seconds kept Blarney’s Cork PIHC hopes alive at Pairc Ui Rinn on Friday last (July 18). As the match entered injury time, the red’s trailed Ballincollig 0-13 to 0-11 – before O’Sullivan’s strike booked his sides place in the semi-finals for the fourth time in five years.   

It was a fitting end to a thrilling contest that bristled with excitement from start to finish.  

Blarney, who went into the tie as underdogs, was forced to line-out without the services of Steve O’Donoghue – were dealt a further blow, when inter-county star Darragh McSweeney left the field through injury after five minutes. However, they made a flying start through early points from Eoin Hallahan, Colin Murphy and Mark Cremin. But, ‘Collig backed by the breeze, bounced back with eight points in a row. Minors from Murphy and Brian Deasy narrowed the gap to three points at half time.

Ten minutes into the second half the sides were tied at 0-9 each – Blarney scores registered by Cremin, Deasy, Mark McCarthy and Murphy. Further Blarney ‘white flags’ from Johnny Hurley and Cremin, was not enough to prevent ‘Collig building a two point advantage as time ticked away. And when Eoin Hallahan had a penalty saved –Blarney’s last chance appeared to have gone. But, super-sub O’Sullivan had other ideas – and when his lighting thunderbolt hit the net – the roar could be heard as far as Blarney and beyond.  

Each and every Blarney player gave their all – none more so than ‘man of the match’ Joe Jordan and Paul O’Leary who was a colossus in defence.

The red’s can now look forward with confidence, to making their fourth semi-final appearance in five years a winning one.

Blarney: Ronan Byrne; Danny Cronin, Darragh McSweeney, Paul O’Leary’ Joe Jordan, James Hughes, Denis O’Donovan (capt); Mark McCarthy, Eoin Hallahan’ Brian Hurley, Johnny Hurley Brian Deasy; Mark Cremin, Ross McNamara, Colin Murphy.

Scorers: James O’Sullivan 1-0, Mark Cremin 0-3 (0-2f), Colin Murphy 0-3, Brian Deasy 0-2, Eoin Hallahan 0-1, Johnny Hurley 0-1, Mark McCarthy 0-1.

Subs: Gerard O’Donovan for McSweeney, James O’Sullivan for McNamara, Dave McCarthy for Brian Hurley.

                                  Mid Cork JAFC

                 Blarney 1-13 Donoughmore 0-8 (01/07/08)

Blarney put in a storming second half to run out convincing winners over Donoughmore in Tuesday’s Mid Cork JAFC clash in Grenagh.

Despite the advantage of a strong wind in the opening 30 minutes, Donoughmore could only manage a 0-5 to 0-4 lead at the break. Blarney scores coming from a brace of points by livewire wing back Mark McCarthy and one apiece from Sean O’Sullivan and Brian Hurley.

Hurley pointed a free to level on the resumption. The Don’s regained the lead immediately. But a succession of unanswered points by Hurley (3), Conor Foley (2), Ray O’Leary, Peter Aherne and Trevor Hegarty put Blarney 0-12 to 0-6 to the good as the game entered the final quarter. 

Donoughmore pulled two points back – but Hurley’s 5th point of the evening and a last minute penalty by Ray O’Leary gave Blarney victory by 1-13 to 0-8.

Best for the winners included Paul O’Leary in defence, the midfield pairing of Gerard O’Donovan and Danny Cronin, as well as forwards Conor Foley and Brian Hurley.

Blarney: Gary Timothy; Eoin Murphy, Diarmuid Kiely, Johnny Barrett; Peter Aherne, Paul O’Leary, Mark McCarthy; Gerard O’Donovan, Danny Cronin; James O’Sullivan, Ray O’Leary, Trevor Hegarty; Sean O’Sullivan, Brian Hurley, Conor Foley.

Sub: Eugene McCarthy,

Scorers: Brian Hurley 0-5 (0-4f), Ray 1-1 (1-0 pen) Mark McCarthy 0-2, Conor Foley 0-2, Sean O’Sullivan 0-1, Peter Aherne 0-1, Trevor Hegarty 0-1.

                                  Mid Cork JBFC

                  Blarney 0-13 Aghabullogue 2-6 (25/06/08)

Blarney Junior B footballers booked their place in the second round of the Mid Cork championship - following a thrilling victory over Aghabullogue in Ballyanly.

It was a splendid contest, which far exceeded the standard expected in B grade competition. The football flowed from the time that Brian Hurley gave Blarney an early lead. The reds enjoyed an 0 -7 to 0-4 interval advantage – thanks to a trio of points from the impressive James O’Sullivan – a further brace by Hurley and a fisted effort by Eamon McSweeney.

Aghabullogue grabbed the equalizer with a well taken goal on the resumption. Hurley edged Blarney into the lead again – but Aghabullogue forged ahead with a point and a second goal. Excitement mounted as Hurley, Shane Spillane and Colm Sheehan brought the team’s level for the fourth time.

The nail-biting climax seen Aghabullogue go a point up – but it was cancelled out by a free from the ice cool Hurley. The final word went to James O’Sullivan, who sent the ball sailing over the bar to give Blarney victory on a 0-13 to 2-6 scoreline.

Blarney: Peter O’Leary; Ross Lynch, Eoin Murphy, Colm O’Connor; Daniel O’Donovan, Stephen O’Donoghue, Eoin Hallahan; Shane Spillane, Colm Sheehan; James O’Sulivan, Sean O’Grady, Conor O’Reilly; Eamon McSweeney, Brian Hurley, Ronan Byrne.

Subs: Pa O’Sullivan, Stevie O’Brien.

Scorers: Brian Hurley 0-6, James O’Sullivan 0-4, Eamon McSweeney 0-1, Colm Sheehan 0-1, Shane Spillane 0-1.

              Cork Non Exam Minor Hurling League Final

                     Blarney 1-15 St Finbarr’s 0-9 (19/06/08)

Blarney minor hurlers pulled off a major coup by capturing the Cork Non Exam 12/Side League title on Thursday last. On a balmy summers evening in Blarney, they out hurled and outscored the famed St Finbarr’s to emerge victorious on a scoreline of 1-15 to 0-9.

The standard of the home team’s play was a joy to watch; resolute defending, marksmanship of the highest class - while the display of custodian Tomas Barrett was equally breathtaking.

There was little to choose between the sides in the opening 30 minutes. Blarney aided by the breeze led 0-7 to 0-4 at the break. Colin Murphy opened the mid Cork sides account on the resumption. It was soon cancelled out by a Barr’s point. But a succession of long range efforts from Mark O’Leary and Murphy stretched Blarney’s advantage to 0-12 to 0-5.

The Barr’s threw everything into attack – but time and again they were repelled by a backline inspired by Barry Phelan. When the visitor’s did get a shot on goal - the cat-like reflexes of Barrett came to Blarney’s rescue. The reds also had their moments – most decisive of which arrived, when Murphy pounced for the game’s only goal.

Murphy went on to increase his personal tally to an incredible 9-37 in six non exam league appearances. And Mark O’Leary had the last say with his fourth point of the evening.

 When the final whistle sounded, the large attendance showed their appreciation of a magnificent Blarney performance, - in which every player was a star.

And a word of praise also for the Blarney selectors; father and son Pat Joe and Brendan Sheehan, Denis O’Donovan Seamus O’Connor and Tim West who blended their charges individual talents into a team, which is worthy county title winners.

Blarney: Tomas Barrett; Craig Sykes, Shane Fitzgibbon; Michael McNamara Barry Phelan, Cian O’Shea; Owen O’Connor; Paul Hallissey, Mark O’Leary, Colin Murphy (capt);  Ciaran Buckley, Ray Deasy.

Subs: Declan Ryan, Brendan McSweeney. Frank Twomey, Stephen West, Richard O’Shea, David Walsh (inj)

Scorers: Colin Murphy 1-6, Mark O’Leary 0-4, Ciaran Buckley 0-3 Cian O’Shea 0-1, Paul Hallissey 0-1.

         PREMIER  INTERMEDIATE HURLING CHAMPIONSHIP

                       Blarney 0-10      Aghada 0-7 (31/05/08)

Blarney are through to the third round  draw of the Cork Premier Intermediate Hurling Championship following victory over Aghada at sun-drenched Pairc Ui Rinn on Saturday evening, 31st May 2008.. It was a hard-earned win for the men in red in a somewhat dour affair, in which the hurling failed to match the sparkle of the glorious weather.  For long periods, Aghada looked likely winners but in a barn-storming final quarter, Blarney reeled off six unanswered points to emerge victorious on a scoreline of 0-10 to 0-7.

The east cork team opened the scoring in the first minute. Johnny Hurley replied shortly after and further minors were exchanged as the sides remained deadlocked 0-3 to 0-3 at the end of the first quarter. Aghada then increased their points tally to five by the break – all of their scores coming from frees.

 A Steve O’Donoghue ‘65 narrowed the gap to the minimum on the resumption. However, their opponents responded with yet another placed ball plus their only point from play. Blarney’s attacking efforts were consistently frustrated by their tendency to concede needless frees.  But eventually tactical switches paid off and Blarney settled to a more familiar pattern. Two frees from young Mark Cremin and O’Donoghue’s third successful ‘65 restored parity. 17 year old substitute Colin Murphy brought the Blarney crowd to their feet by putting his side in front for the first time with a glorious long-range point. At the other end, Ronan Byrne saved magnificently to deny Aghada a certain goal.

A brace of Mark McCarthy points completed the scoring as the sunset on Aghada’s championship ambitions. A new dawn on the horizon lies in wait for Blarney but much improvement is required if they are to progress further.

Blarney: Ronan Byrne; Danny Cronin (capt), Darragh McSweeney, Paul O’Leary, Joe Jordan, James Hughes, Stephen O’Donoghue; Eoin Hallahan, Peter Aherne; Brian Hurley, Mark McCarthy, Johnny Hurley; Mark Cremin, Ross McNamara, Brian Deasy.

Subs: Colin Murphy, James O’Sullivan, Brian Deasy.

Scorers: Mark Cremin 0-3 (0-2f), Stephen O’Donoghue 0-3 (0-3 65s), Mark McCarthy 0-2, Johnny Hurley 0-1, Colin Murphy 0-1.

           PREMIER INTERMEDIATE HURLING LEAGUE

                   Blarney 2-8       Ballincollig 0-12

Blarney emerged victorious over Ballincollig in a closely fought PIHL encounter in Ballincollig on Wednesday, 26th April 2008.  It was the red’s second league victory in as many games and an ideal warm up for the eagerly awaited championship clash with Courcey Rovers on Sunday, the 4th May 2008.

Blarney played against a strong wind in the opening 30 minutes. But solid defending, with James Hughes and Steve O’Donoghue particularly outstanding, kept a tight rein on the ‘Collig forwards in the first half, which ended tied at 5 points a piece.

Blarney raced into a four point lead early in the second half with an expertly taken goal by Ross McNamara. Ballincollig fought back and were leading by two points with three minutes remaining.  However, Blarney finished the stronger and, having just pointed a free from an acute angle, the lively Mark Cremin struck a ground shot to the Ballincollig net to gave Blarney the points on a 2-8 to 0-12 scoreline.

Blarney; Ronan Byrne, Danny Cronin, Paul O’Leary, Stephen O’Donoghue; Joe Jordan, James Hughes, Darragh McSweeney; Eoin Hallahan, Peter Ahern; Brian Hurley, Sean Walsh, Brian Deasy; Mark Cremin, Dave McCarthy, Ross McNamara.

Subs; Johnny Hurley, James O’Sullivan.

Scorers: Mark Cremin 1-4 (0-4f), Ross McNamara 1-1, Stephen O’Donoghue 0-1, James Hughes 0-1 (0-1f), Dave McCarthy 0-1.

                   Blarney 1-10    Argideen Rangers 0-9

Blarney opened their Premier intermediate Hurling League campaign with a four point victory over Argideen Rangers at Timoleague on Sunday 6th April 2008.  Conditions were bitterly cold with a stiff northerly wind adding to the chill factor. After a slow start, Blarney settled well. By half time they had built a commanding 1-4 to 0-2 lead with the goal being scored by the impressive Ross McNamara.

The second half was more evenly fought. However Blarney was always in control as they finished winners on a 1-10 to 0-9 scoreline. The crucial difference between the sides was the accuracy of free-taking by Mark Cremin and the clinical finishing of McNamara. In contrast Argideen recorded 17 wides.

Blarney: Ronan Byrne; Danny Cronin, Paul O’Leary, Stephen O’Donoghue; Joe Jordan, James Hughes, Darragh McSweeney; Peter Ahern; Brian Hurley, Brian Deasy; Dave McCarthy, Peter Nodwell; Mark Cremin, James O’Sullivan, Ross McNamara.

Subs: Johnny Hurley, Derry Quirke, Pa O’Sullivan.

Scorers:Mark Cremin 0-6, Ross McNamara 1-3. Peter Ahern 0-1

                                  LIAM BREATHNACH CUP

                                Douglas 1-12    Blarney 1-10

Blarney bowed out of the Breathnach Cup following a narrow away defeat to Douglas on Sunday, the 30th March 2008.  Blarney lined out without the services of a number of regulars including Joe Jordan and Paul O’Leary who were on duty with the Cork Under 21 squad. Manager Tagdh Hurley used the opportunity to blood minor stars Jack O’Regan and Ray Deasy, both of whom acquitted themselves well in a tough physical battle played in difficult conditions.

The first half finished all-square on a scoreline of Blarney 1-3 Douglas 0-6 with Blarney’s goal coming from the boot of full-forward James O’Sullivan. A number of missed opportunities in the second half proved costly for the visitors as Douglas edged to a 1-12 to 1-10 victory and a place in the semi -finals.

While obviously disappointed with the result, the Blarney mentors were pleased by the commitment and work rate displayed by the players.

Blarney: Ronan Byrne; Danny Cronin, Paul O’Leary, Mark McCarthy; Jack O’Regan, James Hughes, Steve O’Donoghue; Brian Hurley, Sean Walsh; Brian Deasy, Dave McCarthy, Peter Nodwell; Mark Cremin, James O’Sullivan, Ross McNamara.

Subs: Johnny Hurley for Byrne, James O’Sullivan for Nodwell, Ray Deasy for O’Regan, Donal O' Neill for O' Donoghue.

Scorers: James O’Sullivan 1-1, Mark Cremin 0-4, Brian Hurley 0-2, Dave McCarthy 0-1, Sean Walsh 0-1, Ross McNamara 0-1.

                           Blarney 2-5      Ballyhea 1-8

Blarney and Ballyhea finished all square in the second round of the Breathnach Cup at the wild and windy north cork venue on Sunday, the 23rd March 2008.

Blarney faced the elements in the first half and received two setbacks within minutes of the throw- in. In the 5th minute, Mark Cremin received a knock which affected his performance for the remainder of the game. And shortly after, they lost the services of corner back Gerard O’Donovan due to a hamstring injury.  However, the team acquitted themselves well to restrict the home side to a 0-6 to 1-2 interval lead. The goal scored by ace poacher Ross McNamara.

Blarney failed to make full use of the prevailing wind on the resumption and in the end had to settle for a draw on a scoreline of 2-5 to 1-8, Blarney’s second goal courtesy of substitute Dave McCarthy.

Best for Blarney included the entire half back line with Darragh McSweeney particularly outstanding. Ross McNamara, Pa O’Sullivan and Dave McCarthy were the pick of the forwards. While, overall it was a satisfactory performance, there remains room for improvement.

Blarney: Ronan Byrne; Danny Cronin, Paul O’Leary, Gerard O’Donovan; Joe Jordan, James Hughes, Darragh McSweeney; Brian Hurley, Stephen O’Donoghue; Pa O’Sullivan, Peter Ahern, Peter Nodwell; Mark Cremin, Ross McNamara, Brian Deasy.

Subs: Mark McCarthy for O’Donovan (8 min), Dave McCarthy for Pa O’Sullivan (35 min), James O’Sullivan for Nodwell (50 min)

Scorers: Ross McNamara 1-1, Mark Cremin 0-3 (0-3F), Dave McCarthy 1-0, Pa O’Sullivan 0-1.

                     Blarney 1-16      Fr O’Neill’s 0-6

Blarney Premier Intermediate hurlers celebrated St. Patrick’s day in style when comprehensively defeating Fr O’Neill’s in the first round of the Liam Breathnach Cup. There was a large attendance at the Blarney venue to witness the team’s first competitive start of the year. And they went away satisfied with a display which augurs well for the season ahead and beyond.

Four of the of the county minor champions of 2004 lined out as well as teenagers Pa O’Sullivan and Mark Cremin. All acquitted themselves well - none more so than the ice-cool Cremin who contributed 1-8 of the winning total. But it was not all about youth – stalwarts like Ross McNamara, Ronan Byrne, James Hughes and Steve O’Donoghue looked as good as ever. There talent and experience will prove invaluable as the ‘new age’ continues to develop.

Blarney, who played into to a stiff breeze in the opening 30 minutes, did well to hold the east cork side to 0-5 to 0-5 at the interval. The home team took control on the resumption and from the moment the precocious Cremin found the net, the result was never in doubt. McNamara showed his class with a number of sublime points – Darragh McSweeney was awesome at wing back and full back Paul O’Leary never put a foot wrong.

Scores reigned in from every angle as the reds swept to victory on a scoreline of 1-16 to 0-6.

Blarney: Ronan Byrne; Sean Walsh, Paul O’Leary, Gerard O' Donovan, Darragh McSweeney, James Hughes, Stephen O’Donoghue;  Peter Ahern, Brian Hurley; Pa O’Sullivan, Dave McCarthy, Peter Nodwell, Mark Cremin, James O’Sullivan, Ross McNamara.

Subs: Johnny Barrett, Sean Harrington .

                           JUNIOR A HURLING LEAGUE

                         Blarney 3-16      Whitechurch 0-7

Blarney Junior A hurlers swept aside the challenge of near neighbours Whitechurch in their May Day City League encounter in Blarney on Thursday, the 1st May 2008.  From the moment Robbie White’s point put the home team in front in the second minute, there was only one winner.  Conor Foley rattled the net five minutes later and a brace of goals from in-form Cian O’Shea helped Blarney race to a 3-8 to 0-3 interval lead.

The scoring rate dropped somewhat on the resumption but Blarney were never troubled as they coasted to 3-16 to 0-7 victory.  The result leaves Blarney well placed in the league with six points from 4 games played.

Blarney: Trevor Hegarty; Steve O’Brien, Cormac O’Keeffe, Shane Spillane; Donal O’Neill., Michael O’Reilly Sean Twomey; Dave O’Callaghan, Robbie White; Peter Nodwell, Conor Foley, Eugene McCarthy; Cian O’Shea, Sean O’Sullivan, Niall Hayes.

Subs: Colin Murphy, John McDonald, Eamon Kennedy, Ray Deasy.

Scorers: Cian O’Shea 2-2, Conor Foley 1-1, Peter Nodwell 0-4, Colin Murphy 0-2, Eamon Kennedy 0-2, Robbie White 0-1, Eugene McCarthy 0-1, Niall Hayes 0-1, Steve O’Brien 0-1,  Ray Deasy 0-1.

                      Blarney 2-14        Mayfield 2-11

Blarney Junior hurlers made it two wins out of three in the City League thanks to an exciting three- point victory over visitor’s Mayfield on Wednesday, 23rd April 2008. The match was of high intensity and provided both stout defending and excellent scoring by the forwards. Mayfield were first into their stride picking off a number of well-taken points. Blarney eventually settled and mainly due to the unerring accuracy of Colm Sheehan’s free-taking, led 0-10 to 0-5 at the interval.

Mayfield rattled off a hat-trick of points on the resumption. The hosts replied with goals from Sean Harrington and Sean O’Sullivan to put daylight between the teams. However, in a rip-roaring finale, Mayfield narrowed the gap to two points by scoring a brace of goals and a pair of minors. Sean Harrington’s point lifted the siege to make the final score 2-11 to 2-8 in Blarney’s favour.

Blarney: Trevor Hegarty; Johnny Barrett, Cormac O’Keeffe, Stevie O’Brien; Donal O’Neill, Ger O’Donovan, Michael O’Reilly; Robbie White, Dave O’Callaghan; Conor Foley, Colm Sheehan, Eugene McCarthy; Derry Quirke, Sean O’Sullivan, Sean Harrington.

Subs: Shane Spillane, Sean Twomey, Tomas Barrett.

Scorers: Colm Sheehan 0-9 (0-7f), Sean Harrington 1-1, Derry Quirke 0-2, Dave O’Callaghan 0-1.

                        Blarney 0-9     Cloughduv 2-11  

 Blarney Junior A hurlers suffered their second defeat in eight days when losing to Cloughduv in a league clash at Blarney on Sunday, 23rd March 2008.  The home team faced a near gale force wind in the first half. However, resolute defending restricted Cloughduv to a 0-4 to 0-1 lead on the quarter-hour mark.  Nevertheless, the visitors grabbed a somewhat fortuitous goal to stretch their advantage to 1-6 to 0-2 at the halfway mark.

With the wind at their tails in the second half, many would have fancied Blarney’s chances. But their performance level dropped considerably and they finished a well beaten side as Cloughduv coasted to a 2-11 to 0-9 victory.

Blarney: Trevor Hegarty; Johnny Barrett, Diarmuid Kiely, Daniel O’Donovan; Michael O’Reilly, Donal O’Neill, Stevie O’Brien; John McDonnell, Cian O’Mahony; Sean Harrington. Cormac O’Keeffe, Dave O’Callaghan; Derry Quirke, Eamon Kennedy, Niall Hayes.

Sub: Sean Lyons.

Scorers; Sean Harrington 0-6, Cormac O’Keeffe, Niall Hayes and Sean Lyons 0-1 each.

                    Blarney  3-5    Ballinora 3-12 (16/03/08)      

Blarney Junior A hurlers ended on the wrong end of a 3-12 to 3-7 home defeat to Ballinora in their opening Mid-Cork League match of the year on Sunday, 16th March 2008.

The visitors raced into an early three point lead but they were stopped in their tracks when Cormac O’Keeffe levelled the scores with a brilliantly executed goal in the 16th minute. Ballinora raised a green flag minutes later and stretched their lead to four points with a point from play. Points from Sean Harrington (two) and Dave O’Callaghan reduced Blarney’s deficit to single point at the half way mark.

Harrington found the net within seconds of the resumption to put Blarney in front for the first time. Two Ballinora points restored parity before O’Keeffe‘s minor edged the reds ahead again.  But it was the end of the home team’s challenge. Ballinora rattled off a goal and four points to establish a winning lead. O’Callaghan managed his second point of the afternoon while their opponents added 1-2 to their tally. Substitute Conor Foley grabbed a late goal for Blarney but it was Ballinora who took the points.  

Best for Blarney; Stevie O’Brien at wing back, Cormac O’Keeffe up front and Peter Nodwell who showed glimpses of his old form.

Blarney: Niall Hayes, Daniel O’Donovan, Diarmuid Kiely, Johnny Barrett; Steve O’Brien, Colm Sheehan, Cian O’Mahony;  John McDonnell, Noel McCarthy; Peter Nodwell, Sean Harrington, Dave O’Callaghan; Derry Quirke, Eamon Kennedy, Cormac O’Keeffe.

Subs: Conor Foley, Sean Lyons

Scorers: Sean Harrington 1-3 (0-3 frees), Cormac O’Keeffe 1-0, Conor Foley 1-0. Dave O’Callaghan 0-2.

              JUNIORA FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP       

                         Blarney 0-5    Kilmichael  0-12 (23/05/08)

Blarney’s Mid Cork JAFC title aspirations lies in the balance following their opening round defeat to Kilmichael in Cloughduv on Friday, 23rd May 2008.  While Blarney matched their opponents stride for stride in the early stages, they were let down by poor finishing. At the end of a low scoring first half Kilmichael enjoyed a 0-5 to 0-2 advantage.

On the resumption, Blarney again started brightly. But as the game wore on, Kilmichael’s greater preparation with the big ball paid dividends. When the final whistle sounded, Blarney was on the wrong end of a 0-12 to 0-5 scoreline. To their credit, the ‘men in red’ gave it their best shot – none more so than Johnny Barrett, Danny Cronin, Ray O’Leary and Darragh McSweeney.

Much improvement is required if they are to knock out Donoughmore in round two. But it is worth recalling that Canovee lost their first round tie in last years' divisional championship before going on to claim the All-Ireland title.

Blarney: Gary Timothy; Johnny Barrett, Diarmuid Kiely, Gerard O’Donovan; Peter Ahern, Sean Twomey, Danny Cronin; Darragh McSweeney, Paul O’Leary; Eugene McCarthy, Ray O’Leary, Trevor Hegarty; Robert Timothy, Sean O’Sullivan, Conor Foley.

Subs: Michael O’Reilly, Donal O’Neill, Mark McCarthy.

Scorers: Gerard O’Donovan, Danny Cronin, Darragh McSweeney, Ray O’Leary, Mark McCarthy 0-1 each. 

                            JUNIOR A FOOTBALL LEAGUE

                            Aghinagh 1-13     Blarney 1-8 (09/04/08)

Blarney and Aghinagh served up an entertaining hour’s football in their Mid-Cork JAFL clash in Rusheen on Wednesday evening, the 9th of April. Blarney were forced to line out without a number of key players due to pending exams and injuries.  Aghinagh raced to an early lead but Blarney gradually took control in the midfield areas. An excellent goal scored by Trevor Hegarty helped the ‘reds’ to 1-5 to 0-2 interval lead.

Aghinagh stepped up a gear on the resumption chalking up a number of well-taken scores. Blarney rallied in the latter stages, but when the final whistle sounded Aghinagh were winners on a scoreline of 1-13 to 1-8.

Blarney: Gary Timothy; Eoin Murphy, Diarmuid Kiely, Johnny Barrett; Sean Twomey, Peter Ahern, Donal O’Neill; Danny Cronin, Brian Hurley; Michael O’Reilly, Eugene McCarthy, Scott Vickery; Trevor Hegarty, Sean O’Sullivan, Conor Foley.

Sub: Colm O’Connor,

Scorers; Conor Foley 0-3, Trevor Hegarty 1-0, Eugene McCarthy 0-2, Brian Hurley 0-1, Danny Cronin 0-1.

                    Blarney 2-15      Inniscarra (04/04/08)

Blarney junior footballers produced their best display of the year to date in defeating Inniscarra in the Mid Cork League in Ballyanly on Friday, 4th April 2008.  Both sides contributed to an entertaining encounter highlighted by free-flowing football and some excellent scoring. Blarney raced to an early 0-5 to 0-1 lead but by the interval the margin was reduced to two points on a 1-10 to 2-5 scoreline.

The second half saw Blarney goalkeeper Gary Timothy bring off a number of outstanding saves. At the other end, the sharp shooting forwards were inspired by Brian Hurley. When the final whistle sounded, the scoreboard read 2-15 to 2-8 in the visitor’s favour – 2-12 of Blarney’s total coming from play.

Best on the day for Blarney included the aforementioned Gary Timothy, Diarmuid Kiely, Eoin Murphy and Shane Spillane in defence. Paul O’Leary and Danny Cronin dominated midfield while the outstanding forwards were brilliantly led by ‘man of the match’ Brian Hurley.

Blarney: Gary Timothy; Michael O’Reilly, Diarmuid Kiely, Eoin Murphy; Shane Spillane, Peter Ahern, Donal O’Neill; Paul O’Leary, Danny Cronin; Eugene McCarthy, Brian Hurley, Sean O’Grady; Conor Foley, Sean O’Sullivan, Robert Timothy.

Subs: Stephen O’Regan, Daniel O’Donovan, Niall Hayes, David Greene.

Scorers: Robert Timothy 2-2, Brian Hurley 0-5, Conor Foley, Sean O’Sullivan Eugene McCarthy, Sean O’Grady 0-2 each.

                  Blarney 1-10    Naomh Abán 0-10 (08/08/08)

Blarney recorded their first league of the season defeating Naomh Aban 1-10 to 0-10 in Blarney on Saturday, the 8th March 2008.  The home team produced excellent approach play but were let down by poor finishing including two missed penalty opportunities.  Although backed by a near gale force wind, Blarney could only manage a 1-6 to 0-5 interval lead. The goal scored courtesy of corner-forward Robert Timothy.

Blarney remained firmly in control on the changeover, despite facing the deteriorating elements. However, they failed to make the most of their lion’s share of possession. Indeed, only Gary Timothy’s breathtaking last minutes save prevented Naomh Abán from sneaking a share of the spoils. 

Blarney team: Gary Timothy; John McDonnell, Diarmuid Kiely, Michael O’Reilly; Donal O’Neill, Peter Ahern, Gerard O’Donovan; Paul O’Leary, Darragh McSweeney; Eugene McCarthy, Mark McCarthy; Brian Hurley, Robert Timothy, Sean O’Sullivan, Conor Foley.

Subs: Colm O’Connor, Shane Spillane, Johnny Barrett.

Scorers: Robert Timothy 1-1, Darragh McSweeney 0-4, Paul O’Leary 0-2, Mark McCarthy, Eugene McCarthy, Conor Foley 0-1 each.

Kilmichael 3-7       Blarney 2-6 (01/03/08)

Ring-rusty Blarney junior footballers paid the price for a disastrous start when they lost to Kilmichael in their opening Mid-Cork League tie of the season on Saturday, 1st March 2008.  Despite playing with the benefit of the elements in the first half, Blarney trailed 2-1 to no score by the 10th minute.  But, inspired by a goal from a 40-yard sideline by Peter Ahern, Blarney clawed their way back to reduce the deficit to 2-1 to 1-3 by the break.  Blarney continued to pile on the pressure on the resumption.

Three great points by Mark McCarthy and an opportunist goal from Conor Foley put Blarney two points ahead with 8 minutes remaining. However, Kilmichael finished strongly running out winners on a 3-7 to 2-6 scoreline.

Blarney team: Gary Timothy; Eoin Murphy, Diarmuid Kiely, Stephen O’Regan; Donal O’Neill, Peter Ahern, John McDonnell; Paul O’Leary, Ger O’Donovan; Daniel O’Donovan, Conor Foley, Mark McCarthy; Robert Timothy, Niall Hayes, Trevor Hegarty.

Subs: Sean O’Sullivan, David Greene, Colm O’Connor, Eamon McSweeney.

Scorers: Peter Ahern 1-1, Mark McCarthy 0-4, Conor Foley 1-0, Robert Timothy 0-1.

                JUNIOR B HURLING LEAGUE  (26/04/08)

                           Blarney 3-14     Cloughduv 4-5

The Blarney Junior B Hurlers opened their league campaign with a well-merited win over arch rivals Cloughduv in an entreating game in Cloughduv on Saturday evening, 26th April 2008.  Cloughduv had much the better of the early exchanges scoring two quick goals.  However, Blarney settled down to lead 3-6 to 2-4 at the interval.

The second-half saw Blarney remain in control but credit to Cloughduv who never gave up and were rewarded with two consolation goals near the end.  Blarney’s victory was a big boost to new selectors Anthony Murphy, Jim Barrett, Maurice Kiely and Jim O’Connor.

Blarney: Ray Deasy; John McDonnell, Daniel O’Donovan, Pat O’Donovan; Paul O’Donovan, Starred O’Riordan, James Duggan; Sean Twomey, Steve O’Brien; Tomas Barrett,  Sean Harrington, Cian O’Shea; Sean Lyons, Eamon Kennedy, Kieran Ruby.

Sub: Mark O’Leary.

Scorers: Eamon Kennedy 1-5, Cian O’Shea 1-1, Sean Harrington 0-4, Kieran Ruby 1-0, Sean Lyons 0-2, Tomas Barrett 0-1, Sean Twomey 0-1.