Club Notes Archive - 2017

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APRIL

4 April

Football
Aodh Ruadh bid to continue their fine start to life in division 2 when they travel to Termon this Sunday 9th April. The senior game throws in at 3pm and is preceded by the reserves at 1.30pm

Aodh Ruadh are due to play Naomh Bríd / Pettigo this Wednesday, 5th April in Father Tierney Park at 7pm.

The under 16s first game of the league turned out to be an ill-fated outing against Naomh Bríd / Pettigo. The pitch at Pettigo was the worse for the weather and the game had to be abandoned following a leg injury to Naomh Bríd / Pettigo player Rory McGlone. Our best wishes go to Rory for a speedy recovery. Training continues this Wednesday from 6pm to 7.15pm.

Under 14 training continues on Mondays and Wednesdays from 5.45pm to 7pm.

The under 12s got off to a good start in Division 1 on Monday evening winning away to Saint Naul's. Aonghus Sweeny led the way with a run from midfield and an early goal with Drew Ryan and Ryan Daly adding to the first half goal tally. Points by Shane Delahunty, Jack Gallagher, Aonghus Sweeny and Ryan Daly left the senior team up 3-4 to 1-1 at half time. Despite playing into the breeze for the second half, Aodh Ruadh dominated with Ryan Daly embarking on a rampant goal fest. There was some great combination play and a strong defence marshalled by goalie Cian McKenna and captain on the night, Eoghan Kelly, squashed any hope Saint Naul's had of getting back into the game. Some good finishing from Fionn Gallagher, Robbie Murphy and Shane Delahunty capped off a great team performance for the seniors.
The reserves rose to the occasion and with 10 players on the bench only the goalie Killian Bradshaw stayed on after half-time with a full outfield team change at the break. The Doogan brothers, Michael and Eoin were strong in defence while Shane McGloin, Robbie Murphy and James Monaghan had great midfield presence. Oisin McGlinchey, Morgan McNamee, James Ward and Cian McDonald showed great determination and worked hard every minute of their game time. All and all it was great to see the combination of skill, teamwork and positive attitude shown by this young team and hopefully they will continue to play like this through thick and thin. Training continues on Wednesday from 5pm to 6.15pm. The Division 2 players will be away to Annagry to take on Na Rossa on Saturday while the Division 1 players are home to Killybegs.

The under 10s entertained Grange last Saturday for a challenge. We had 24 players togging out and fielded senior and reserve teams, winning both matches giving great team performances in both games. Under 10 boys are training on Monday's and Fridays from 6.15pm to 7.15pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh.

The under 8s have their first blitz of the year when Ardara are the guests this Saturday. All players are to be at the Park for 11am with games getting under way at 11.30am. We ask that parents / guardians to help out on the refreshments front by supplying a loaf of sandwiches, tray of buns or similar to help feed all present on the day. Also, we would appreciate if parents / guardians could lend a hand in the kitchen. Under 6 and under 8 training continues this Friday in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. The under 8 session will run from 6pm to 7pm. The under 6 session is slightly shorter, running from 6pm to 6.45pm. Parents are asked to please collect children promptly at the end of the session.

Ladies
Under 14 girls training continues on Tuesday and Thursday at 5.45pm. There is a league match away to Ardara on Sunday 9th April at 7.15pm. We will be leaving the park at 5.15pm and would appreciate if parents / guardians could drive or ensure their daughter has a lift.

The under 12 girls have a busy week ahead. This Tuesday 4th April they have a home game against Bundoran at 6.30pm. Players are to meet at the changing rooms at 5.50pm. Please bring gum shields. Membership must be paid before players can take to the field. Then on Thursday the girls have a challenge match against Naomh Bríd / Pettigo at 5pm.

Training continues for under 8s and under 10s in the Mercy Hall this Friday from 7-8pm. The price is €2 to cover the cost of the hall. Players should wear runners and bring a bottle of water with them.

Hurling
Congratulations to Donegal, including mentor Paul Sheridan and panellist Ciaran Rami on their 4-25 to 1-11 victory over Tyrone in Celtic Park, Derry to win the NHL Division 3A title.

The senior hurlers are due to get their season off the mark this Friday, 7th April, when they host Buncrana in Father Tierney Park at 7pm.

Our under 14s travelled to the Cross on Thursday last to take on Setanta. It was a tight game throughout, and the lads showed great character to come back from the blow of conceding two goals just before half-time. We were well on top in the second half and had chances to win the match but didn't take them. The sides were left dead-locked at the full-time whistle, Aodh Ruadh 1-8 Setanta 2-5 which, all in all, was a fair result. While the lads were disappointed not to take the two points we all know that any day you come out of the Cross with anything is a good day. The under 14s are due to play Dungloe at home this Thursday.

The minors had no game last Thursday as MacCumhaill's were unable to field. We are due to travel to Burt this week.

Training for all ages continues on Sunday at 12 noon.

Membership
We had a late surge in membership just ahead of the deadline. This doesn't make life easy for administrators so fair play to them for the massive amount of work they ended up having to do in a very compressed period of time. Thanks to those who have taken on club membership this year. Anyone taking on membership from this point on should be aware of the following. Players will have to wait for five days following their registration before they can play for the club. Anyone registered from this point on will be ineligible to vote at the AGM. In addition, in the event of an All-Ireland, those registered after 31st March will have no automatic entitlement to an All-Ireland ticket.

Easter Camp
Aodh Ruadh's second annual Easter Camp runs from 10am to 2.30pm on Tuesday 11th April, Wednesday 12th April and Thursday 13th April. Price for the three days is €30 per child with family concessions available. Contact Brian Roper on 087-6139065 for bookings and further information.

The Kube
Senior Aodh Ruadh players Damien Cleary, Diarmaid McInerney, Cian Dolan and Niall Murray are all competing against each other in a bid to beat the Kube and win €1,000 as part of a huge fund-raising event for Holy Family National School. Aodh Ruadh's involvement doesn't end there with reserve manager Aidan Murray and Ladies player Sarah Daly also taking on the challenge. The Kube is on in the Great Northern Hotel this coming Saturday 8th April at 8.30pm. Tickets are available now priced €10 from the school by calling 071-9851689, so support generously.

Table quiz
Club members are asked to note that the annual table quiz organised by the Park / Development Committee will take place in Owen Roe's on the Thursday before Easter, April 13th, at 9.30pm. Please put this date in your diary and we are appealing to members to take on responsibility and get a team of four to participate in what is always a good social night. Funds raised will go towards further work on the 650m Fitness Trail at Páirc Aodh Ruaidh which we would like to move forward with in 2017. Having completed the Prunty playing fields, floodlighting scheme, toilet block and the hurling / rebound wall, this is really the final element of the major €1m re-development of the former Munday's Field site. Please confirm if you intend to organise a team or sponsor a prise for the night by texting to Tom Daly, David McLoone, Conal Gallagher or Michael Daly ASAP.

Cash for Clothes
Aodh Ruadh Juvenile Hurling Committee are running their annual cash for clothes recycling campaign for the month of April. This is a great chance to get rid of any unwanted clothes, shoes, belts, bed linen, towels and help us raise some much needed funds for promotion and development of underage hurling in the club. For any information regarding this campaign or to arrange collection of clothes contact any of the following Lorraine Duffy 087-6874393, Denis Daly 086-3269550, Sabrina Brosnan 087-9287965 or John Rooney 086-2587793.

Last Man Standing
After seven rounds of our Last Man Standing competition we have five still standing as we head in to the finals next weekend. The five top tipsters who made it this far are Sean and John, Niamh Duffy, Pauric Keenaghan, Edel Sheerin and Tanya O'Shea. Well done on getting this far. We will be in contact during the week to get your prediction for next weekend.

Bingo
The March big bingo jackpot of €800 was won by Mary Cleary of Erne Dale heights. The stand-up prize of €160 was shared by two winners. There was no winner again of the snowball, so it rolls up to €750 on 50 numbers or less. Bingo as usual this Friday at 9pm, books priced just €10.

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11 April

Football
Well done to Colm Kelly and all associated with Donegal under 21s on a superb Ulster final victory over Derry on a scoreline of 3-17 to 0-13. Not for the first time, Colm has done the club proud. We wish the squad all the very best as they take on Dublin this Saturday at 2.30pm in Breffni Park in the All-Ireland semi-final.

The reserves took to the road for the second time this season when they travelled to Termon on a wet and breezy Sunday. After a difficult first outing in Ardara, the Termon challenge was to prove just as tough. Anthony Coughlin opened the scoring with a free kick, but a few errors at the back were brutally punished by Termon who raced into a 2-4 to 0-3 lead after 15 minutes, with Coughlin getting the other two Aodh Ruadh points. The visitors settled somewhat, but Termon managed to stretch their lead to 2-8 to 0-4 at the break, Daniel Warnock also getting on the score sheet for Aodh Ruadh. Scores were slow to come early in the second half with Termon managing just a point, but at the midway point they bagged their third goal to put the result beyond doubt. Jason Granaghan and Rory Cullen scored fine points along with another Coughlin point and a well taken score from Martin Larkin in the second half, but it was to finish 3-14 to 0-8, all the damage being done by the Termon full forward who had 2-6 to his name by the end. We have a full team sheet up on aodhruadh.org.

The adult leagues continue this Sunday with Aodh Ruadh hosting Glenfin in Father Tierney Park. The reserves get us going at 1.30pm and they are followed by the seniors at 3pm. The pitch is in great condition, the Park is looking well and it is great to finally have division 2 football back in the town, so come on up and get behind the lads as they look to extend their winning start to the year.

Aodh Ruadh minors are due to play Saint Naul's in Mountcharles this Wednesday at 7.30pm.

Under 16 training continues this Wednesday from 6.15pm to 7.15pm. The team travel to the Rosses this Friday to take on Naomh Muire as we bid to finally get our league programme up and running. We are taking a bus for this one and players are to bring €3 to go towards the cost. We meet at the park for 4.45pm and will be leaving promptly at 5pm.

Under 14 training continues on Mondays at 5.45pm. The Bakery Cup commences this Wednesday 12th April at 5.30pm and runs every Wednesday until completion. The captains and vice captains for this year's competitions have been named and are Matt Gillespie with Daire Warren vice captain; Colm McGloin with Corey Ryan vice captain; Cian Rooney with Shane Duffy vice captain; and Kyle Murray with Dara Gallagher vice captain. Best of luck to all the participants.

The under 12s had a great day on Saturday as the club fielded three under 12 teams in competitive football for the first time. Better than that, the lads came out on top in all three games. The senior and reserve teams both won at home against Killybegs, but the big shout out goes to the boys on the Division 2 team who made the long trip to Annagry and took the points from Naomh Muire in a tight game, winning by a single point 2-5 to 3-3. It is a stretch on the panel to field in both Divisions and is a great achievement for the boys to have three wins. Thanks to referees and supporters, especially those who provided the transport to Annagry. The Bakery Cup is on Wednesday at 5.45pm for the 2005 players. The 2006 players have to be up at 5pm on Wednesday for a challenge match against the under 10s. League matches are on Saturday with the Division 1 games in Ardara starting at 12 noon. Players on the Division 1 senior and reserve team should meet at the park at 10.30am or in Ardara at 11.15am. The Division 2 team is home to Naomh Bríd and will meet in the park at 11.15am. Players for each of the three teams will be named at training on Wednesday and posted in the WhatsApp Group.

The under 10s will be playing an internal blitz this Wednesday afternoon against the under 11s. Players are to be up for 4.40pm with the games throwing in at 5pm. There will be no training on Good Friday or Easter Monday

Under 6 and under 8 training continues this Friday in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. The under 8 session will run from 6pm to 7pm. The under 6 session is slightly shorter, running from 6pm to 6.45pm. Parents are asked to please collect children promptly at the end of the session.

Ladies
Realt Ruadh took on Saint Naul's in the Shield as they started their season. It was a intensely fought game from start to finish which ended with honours even at 3-4 apiece. Congratulations to Shelly Loughlin who bagged the player of the match award with a sterling defensive performance. The team are training on Wednesday at 7pm in Ballyshannon. They are playing Termon this Friday at 12 noon with travel arrangements to be confirmed.

It was a busy few days for the under 14 ladies. They were in Ardara on Saturday evening and recorded a good win in their first competitive game of the league programme. Saturday then saw five of the team travelling to Newry to represent their county. Then the team were back on the road again on Monday evening to Downings, our rivals from the under 13 county final last year. As expected, this was a tough battle right to the very end and ultimately a just proved a bridge too far for us with the hosts finishing as winners by a goal. There is training on Thursday at 5.45pm with Termon the guests on Sunday morning at 11am.

The under 12 girls had a good win over Bundoran last Tuesday. They are in action again this Tuesday, 11th April as they take on Saint Naul's at 6.30pm in the Park.

Under 8 and under 10 training has wrapped up for a break over Easter. Training will go outside after the break, watch club notes and Facebook for details.

Hurling
The senior hurlers are due to go into action this Good Friday when they travel to O'Donnell Park to take on Saint Eunan's at 7pm.

Our under 14s played Omagh Saint Enda's in a challenge game on Sunday morning. We were missing a number of regulars due to injury and other commitments, but it was still a worthwhile exercise. While the lads lost they learned a lot from the game and see that they have room for improvement in a number of areas. They are at home to Carndonagh in the league this Thursday.

On Thursday last our minors travelled to the spiritual home of Donegal hurling, Burt. We fielded a young team featuring only three full minors and three under 15s but despite this the lads put in a terrific performance. The sides were level at half time at Burt 2-4 Aodh Ruadh 1-7. Mid way through the second half the physically stronger Inishowen men imposed themselves on the game and led by four points. A great trait of this team is that they never give up and Thursday was another example of this. The boys produced a storming last quarter and ran out worthy winners 2-13 to 3-8. This was a great win for the lads, as everyone knows hurling wins for Aodh Ruadh are rare in Hibernian Park so well done to the boys. They have a busy week ahead, they are due to play Setanta in the Cross on Tuesday and make the long trip to Carndonagh on Thursday.

Numbers are quite good at under 8 and under 10 training for the last few weeks, and we're delighted to be heading to MacCumhaill Park on Sunday 23rd April for a blitz hosted by MacCumhaill's. More details nearer the date.

Pitch Bookings
As we are in the high season for usage timely booking with Peter Conlon is essential. Where games are cancelled they must also be notified so that another club team can be facilitated. We have added pressure as we are taking Naomh Bríd home games for now in the adult grades due to their re-building of their own pitch. We are also taking three Erne Gaels home games in the Fermanagh league as their grounds are also being repaired. They are Saturday 15th April v Kinawley; Sunday 23rd April v Teemore at 5pm and Sunday 30th April at 1pm v Ederney.

Last Man Standing
After week eight of our Last Man Standing competition we have joint winners. Niamh Duffy and Tanya O'Shea both got three of the winners of the National League Finals. Well done to both ladies who have ensured we'll have to make it Last Person Standing in 2018. Thanks again to all who supported our inaugural competition.

Bingo
Last week's €400 jackpot was won by Molly Ferguson of Belleek. The stand up round prize was won in the amount of €125, whilst Valentine the bear found a new home in Molly Kerrigan of Belleek! Yet again there was no winner of the snowball so it rolls up to a mighty €775 on 50 numbers or less! Bingo will go ahead on Good Friday at the Abbey Centre, including a Easter egg give away to get into the seasonal spirit. Books priced at just €10. See you Friday night at 9pm.

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18 April

Football
Back in 2014 a 2-7 to 1-9 victory for Glenfin denied Aodh Ruadh promotion to division two. It was a very different story on Sunday in Father Tierney Park as the sides paired off for the first time since that contentious meeting. An open game, Aodh Ruadh created the lion's share of the chances and came away 5-17 to 2-12 victors to extend their winning start to the season to three games. A point from Darren Drummond followed by a goal from Shane McGrath shot the hosts into an early 1-1 to 0-2. Niall Murray pointed before a David McGurrin goal after the 20 minute mark pushed the Ernesiders 2-4 to 0-3 ahead. Stephen McDermott netted for Glenfin and when they added three further points there was just a point between the sides. Aodh Ruadh didn't relent though and retaliated with 1-2. Darren Drummond slipped past Liam O'Meara after a flowing move, followed quickly by a point from sub Paddy Gillespie. Glenfin registered two scores before the break, but at the turnover it was James O'Donnell's men firmly in command, leading 3-6 to 1-8. The visitors didn't let the margin faze them though and five minutes into the new half it was erased with a quick 1-1. Points were swapped before Aodh Ruadh again took control of matters, hitting a half dozen unanswered points. The cherry on top was delivered with late goals from Darren Drummond and Shane McGrath sealing a 14 point victory. We have pictures from the game up on aodhruadh.org.

The reserves played their first game of the season in Father Tierney Park on Sunday afternoon. Playing with a strong breeze in the first half, Aodh Ruadh were simply unable to get enough scores on the board as Glenfin deployed a defensive set up. It was the visitors who struck the first blow, bagging a goal early on with their first attack of the match. The Erne men enjoyed good possession but didn't make it count, with just two frees from Anthony 'Waddle' Coughlin and Nicky Sheerin either side of a Christopher Goan point from play their only scores of the half. Glenfin took a narrow lead in at the break leading by 1-1 to 0-3. Any chance of an Aodh Ruadh win were completely ruined within minutes of the restart as Glenfin added 2-3 without reply. Glenfin totally dominated the second half with smarter play and with the assistance of the strong wind. Two fine free kicks from difficult positions by Waddle were the only scores mustered by the home side, whilst the visitors punished at every opportunity and added two very late goals, eventually winning out on a scoreline of 5-9 to 0-5. Another disappointing day as the lads adjust to life in division 2. We have pictures and a team sheet from the game up on aodhruadh.org

The league programme continues on Sunday with Aodh Ruadh hosting Cloughaneely in Father Tierney Park. The reserves get us going at 1.30pm and they are followed by the seniors at 3pm.

Aodh Ruadh minors had an excellent away win in Mountcharles on Monday evening with all of the 16 players travelling putting in superb displays to get the Ernesiders the two points. The visitors finished 0-14 to 0-7 victors, thanks primarily to a sterling first half effort which saw them going in 0-9 to 0-2 to the good. Best on the night for Ballyshannon was Shane Dorrian who obliged with fully nine points of the final tally. Next up for the lads is the visit of Naomh Conaill to Father Tierney Park on Wednesday evening for a 7pm throw-in.

At long last the under 16s finally got a meaningful game under their belt with their first full outing in the division two league. The opponents were Naomh Muire down in Annagry and playing with the benefit of the breeze Aodh Ruadh got off to a good start only to stall somewhat over the mid section of the half. Nevertheless a couple of goals before half time helped the visitors to a deserved four point advantage at the turnover. Into the second half and Aodh Ruadh continued to play the majority of the football, but fierce Naomh Muire defending prevented the Ernesiders from ever putting the game to bed. Late goals for the homesters ensured the match finished all square at 6-8 apiece, probably a fair enough result on the balance of play. Best for Aodh Ruadh was Senan Rooney who put in an inspiring shift and finished with 1-3 to his credit. In defence Adam Clarke, Mark McGlynn (1-1) and Eugene Doherty all worked themselves to the bone. In attack Tiernan Flood Dolan hit a good point to cap a good display and Eoin Doherty had some cracking goals in his 2-1 haul. Elsewhere sub Daniel Dolan showed brightly on his introduction.

The first week of the Bakery Cup saw wins for Matt Gillespie and Kyle Murray's teams. The competition continues this Wednesday with all players to be present at the park for 5.30pm. Under 14 training continues on Friday at 5.45pm.

The under 12s had a great trip to Cavan to see the All-Ireland under 21 semi-final and were treated to generous hospitality and two good games by Cavan Gaels in Terry Coyle Park before the under 21 match. Many thanks to the parents who travelled and to Cathal Byrne for keeping us between the ditches. In the under 12 league we went from three wins last week to three losses this week. The Division 1 side were away to Ardara and the seniors gave up a 7 point half time advantage to lose by two points in the end. The Division 1 Reserves struggled to match the Ardara team and like our Division 2 team who were at home to Naomh Bríd they were well beaten at full time. On Wednesday the 2005 boys are involved in the Bakery Cup and should be up for 5.30pm. The 2006 boys play another challenge match against the under 10s and they should be up as usual from 5pm to 6pm. Our next league match is on Friday when the Division 1 team play Dungloe at home. Players should be in the park at 3pm for a 3.30pm start. The Division 2 team are away to Bundoran, time to be advised.

The under 10s will be taking on Ardara today, Tuesday. All players are to be at the park for 6pm. We ask that parents / guardians to help out on the refreshments front by supplying a loaf of sandwiches, tray of buns or similar to help feed all present on the day. Also, we would appreciate if parents / guardians could lend a hand in the kitchen. Under 10 training continues on Friday from 6.15pm to 7.15pm.

Ladies
Realt Ruadh travelled to Termon on Good Friday morning. Despite a battling performance the honours went to the homesters, but the Red Stars had some great performances, particularly in a rugged defence where Dearbhla O'Moore won manager's player of the match and Natasha Gormley marked her first game between the sticks by picking up the players player of the match honours. Next up for the ladies is a trip to Saint Naul's this Sunday for a Shield clash at 11am.

Termon threw absolutely everything at Aodh Ruadh in their under 14 clash on Sunday morning in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh, but it still wasn't sufficient to earn them victory against this indomitable bunch of girls. Aodh Ruadh dominated for long spells of the first half and when Sara Jane Keon netted an early goal it looked like the floodgates might open. However Aodh Ruadh occasionally overworked their chances while tough Termon defending denied them a number of times also. Termon got a good start to the second half, but Aodh Ruadh responded well with a superb Aoibheann McGarrigle point and a well taken goal keeping them in the ascendant. However Termon's physicality began to tell and with time running out they hit two goals to race into a five point lead with seven minutes left to play. The Shamettes are made of stern stuff though and held their cool to convert two well-worked points before a beautiful Sara Jane Keon shot left the under 14 county keeper with no chance. And so it was honours even at the long whistle following a bruising and hard fought 70 minutes of football. The Ernesiders had a number of stars on show, the leading one being Tia McFarland who rose to the physical challenge posed by the Termon girls in defiant fashion. In defence Grainne Maguire, Eilish Gallagher and Ciara Caldwell gave the hosts a great sense of security despite all the visitors threatening play. Up front Sara Jane Keon was imperious with Caoimhe Hughes-O'Brien offering great support. Meanwhile Aoibheann McGarrigle added great zip on her introduction. Under 14 girls training continues today, Tuesday, and Thursday at 5.45pm. There is no game this weekend. The next fixture is away to Saint Eunan's on Saturday 29th April.

The under 12's next fixture takes place today, Tuesday, against Four Master's at 6pm. The team are meeting at park at 5pm and departing for Donegal town at 5.15pm sharp.

Girls under 8 and under 10 training goes outside to Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh [Munday's] from next Monday, 24th April from 6.15pm to 7.15pm.

The monthly Ladies Committee meeting takes place today, Tuesday at 8pm.

Hurling
It finished 3-10 to 2-8 in O'Donnell Park as Aodh Ruadh came up just short in the senior hurling league on Good Friday. The hosts made full use of a following wind in the first half. They were 2-5 up with 12 minutes on the clock. Points from Eddie Lynch and Rory Cullen finally got the Ernesiders off the mark, but Eunan's quickly cancelled those out. Another Eddie Lynch point before the interval saw the sides turning around with Saint Eunan's 2-7 to 0-3 to the good. Fair play to the Ballyshannon men though, as they came out fighting and a point from Stephen Connolly and a goal four minutes in from Cian Dolan gave them a platform to work from. However the hosts responded with 1-2 and although Aodh Ruadh were on top for much of the remainder of the match they could only add three Eddie Lynch frees and another point from Stephen Connolly before a late Ciaran Kilgallon goal four minutes from time saw the Letterkenny men finish five point victors.

The under 14s continued their rich vein of form on Thursday last, defeating Carndonagh 4-10 to 3-5 in Father Tierney Park. They are unbeaten now after four games and are away to Buncrana this Thursday. They are also taking part in the county Féile na nGael on Sunday in Convoy.

The minors followed up their win against Burt with an impressive win against Setanta in the Cross on Thursday evening. The lads started this game well and led throughout the, claiming the points on a 5-17 to 2-5 scoreline. Unfortunately our game against Carndonagh has to be rescheduled as we were unable to field. We are at home to an impressive Buncrana team this Thursday at 7pm. The Inishowen lads have won all their games by huge margins this season so it will be a difficult assignment for the lads.

We are delighted to have four under 12 hurlers heading to play in Croke Park on Saturday as part of an Ulster Activity Day. The four lucky lads who came through a skills test to take part are Cian McKenna, Mickey Doogan, Tommy Winters and Kenzie Lee Ayres. We wish the lads well and hope they have a great day.

The under 6s, under 8s and under 10s are taking part in a blitz in MacCumhaill Park on Sunday. Details will be circulated during the week.

Pitch Bookings
As we are in the high season for usage timely booking with Peter Conlon is essential. Where games are cancelled they must also be notified so that another club team can be facilitated. We have added pressure as we are taking Naomh Bríd home games for now in the adult grades due to their re-building of their own pitch. We are also taking three Erne Gaels home games in the Fermanagh league as their grounds are also being repaired. They are Sunday 23rd April v Teemore at 5pm and Sunday 30th April at 1pm v Ederney.

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25 April

Football
Aodh Ruadh showed absolutely no mercy as they ripped Cloughaneely asunder in a one-sided clash on Sunday in Father Tierney Park. It was 3-14 to 0-2 in favour of the homesters at the break and James O'Donnell's men didn't appreciably take their foot off the gas in the second half. They rattled in 3-10 over the course of the second 30, and while Cloughaneely did register a half dozen points there was never any prospect of them making a game of things. The final score was 6-24 to 0-8 in a facile victory which maintains Aodh Ruadh's 100 percent start to the season with four wins on the spin. Few Ballyshannon players could say they were seriously challenged in their one on one battles. However David Dolan was in truly imperious form in midfield with Philip Patton also a real contender for the man of the match honours with a tally of 1-8 and a host of assists. Elsewhere, Seamus Kane, Nathan Boyle and Conor Patton also stood out. We have pictures and a full report from the game up on aodhruadh.org.

The reserves had a strong squad available for their match at Father Tierney Park on Friday evening. But despite taking a commanding six point lead in at the interval, the second half was to be a nail-bitter to the end as Aodh Ruadh eventually scraped through with a narrow hard fought 1-8 to 2-4 victory over Cloughaneely. The Ernesiders lead by 1-5 to 0-2 at half-time thanks to a goal from Oisin Rooney. However the visitors fought back well and it was all square as game headed into added time. With time running out Aodh Ruadh mounted a brilliant sweeping move which was clinically finished off to seal just the second win from five in this campaign for Ballyshannon. There was great energy from the half back line of Eddie Lynch, Ronan Drummond and Paddy Gillespie, whilst David Finnerty worked tirelessly throughout. We have a full match report and pictures from the game up on aodhruadh.org.

The league programme continues on Sunday with Aodh Ruadh at home once more. This time Killybegs are the guests in Father Tierney Park. The reserves get us going at 1.30pm and they are followed by the seniors at 3pm. It's great to have the big names back making their way to Ballyshannon, and the results the lads are racking up show they aren't out of place in this company. Come on up and enjoy some really top quality football.

Aodh Ruadh minors were unlucky not to get the better of table toppers Naomh Conaill in a rollercoaster of a game in Father Tierney Park last Wednesday. Ballyshannon held the edge for much of the second half, but Glenties rallied well to secure a 4-11 to 3-11 which saw them finish the league on five wins from five. Aodh Ruadh could count themselves unlucky to come out on the wrong side of the result with Sean Taylor, playing out the field, making a number of telling interventions. Mark Gallagher was excellent in nets and made a number of quality stops while Adam Clarke was perceptive and tigerish at corner back. Further out the pitch Conal Sweeny worked hard and Shane Dorrian was as dangerous as ever, but Ballyshannon will know they didn't always make the right decisions when they went on the offensive. Next up for the minors is the championship which will commence after the leaving cert.

The under 16s entertain Naomh Ultan at Father Tierney Park this Wednesday at 7pm. All players are to be at the park for 6pm.

The under 14s played Glenswilly on Monday evening in a challenge match and enjoyed a victory after a good competitive game. The under 14s competitive season gets under way next May Bank Holiday Monday with two sides in action. The division 1 lads face Dungloe in Father Tierney Park, while the division 2 side take on Bundoran in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh, times to be confirmed. The second week of the Bakery Cup saw wins for Matt Gillespie's team record their second win as they got the better of Kyle Murray's side, who had also been victorious in the opening week. The other game of the day saw Colm McGloin and Corey Ryan's side defeat Cian Rooney and Shane Duffy's men to earn their first win of their Bakery Cup campaign. The competition goes into hiatus now for a period with the onus moving to league games. Under 14 training continues on Fridays at 5.45pm.

Aodh Ruadh's under 12 Division 1 team played an understrength Dungloe team on Friday and won easily enough. Best wishes to Dungloe player Luke who broke his arm in an unfortunate accident. The reserve team included a number of under 10 players who coped well with the step up in grade. The Division 2 team travelled to Bundoran and came out on the losing side of what was a good game of football. Next week sees significant challenges for both teams as the Division 2 team play Naomh Columba and the Division 1 team are away to Naomh Conaill, both of whom are off to a good start in their league campaigns. Fixtures times are still to be confirmed. With no Bakery Cup games this week training will be back to the usual time of 5pm to 6.15pm on Wednesday.

Under 10s are playing Derrygonnelly this Friday in Derrygonnelly. We are meeting at the park and departing at 5.30pm. Parents are asked to assist with transport.

Ladies
A young Realt Ruadh ladies side travelled to Mountcharles on Sunday. They contested well in the first half going in trailing by 1-2 to 1-6 against a strong home side. Saint Naul's upped the ante in the second half to run out 3-13 to 1-4 winners. Nevertheless the Red Stars played to the very end with Anna Rafferty and Hannah Doherty really rising to the challenge and Cliodhna Kerr doing well in her role as a repurposed full forward while Natasha Gormley impressed between the sticks. The Realt Ruadh team was Natasha Gormley; Lauren Moore, Sarah Gallagher, Bronagh Kelly; Hannah Doherty, Shelley Loughlin, Orlaith Gallagher; Meagan McGee, Briana Maher; Mary Flora Scott, Roisín McGloin, Anna Rafferty; Sarah Daly, Danika Doherty, Cliodhna Kerr. Subs: Maura Travers, Áine Gillespie, Aimee McCafferty, Cáit Gillespie and Dearbhla O'Moore. Realt Ruadh's next assignment is a challenge match in Grange this Tuesday, 25th April at 7pm. The girls are then scheduled to face Moville away in the league this Friday.

The under 14s will be taking on Saint Eunan's in Letterkenny this Saturday, 29th April. Best of luck to the under 14 Coláiste Cholmcille girls in their Ulster quarter-final this Tuesday morning in Irvinestown.

The under 12 training continues on Tuesday and Thursdays from 5pm to 6pm.

Girls under 8 and under 10 training continues in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh on Mondays from 6.15pm to 7.15pm.

Hurling
The senior hurlers return to Donegal League action this Friday, 28th April when they host MacCumhaill's in Father Tierney Park at 7pm.

The minors played Buncrana in Father Tierney Park on the same evening, although the lads lost, it was their best performance of the season against a very strong Inishowen outfit. We led at half-time 3-9 to 2-6 but we ran out of steam in the second half against a physically stronger team. The lads never gave up and a great game finished in a victory for the Buncrana men 6-15 to 4-12. We face another tough game this Tuesday away to Dungloe.

On Saturday four of our under 12s had a great day at the Ulster Activity Day in Croke Park. The lads had a great day getting a tour of the stadium and getting to play games on the hallowed turf of Croke Park. The four lads were Cian McKenna, Mickey Doogan, Tommy Winters and Kenzie Lee Ayres. Hopefully this will be the first of many appearances for them in Croke Park.

On Sunday our under 6s, under 8s and under 10s travelled to a blitz in MacCumhaill Park hosted by MacCumhaill's. The lads did well in all games against MacCumhaill's and Saint Eunan's. We created a little bit of history on Sunday by fielding an under 6 hurling team for the first time ever. Many thanks to MacCumhaill's for the great hospitality after the blitz and thanks to the parents for driving the lads to the blitz and for giving great support to all the teams.

The under 14s made the long trip to Buncrana on Thursday last and suffered their first defeat of the season. The All-County Féile took place in the Centre of Excellence in Convoy on Sunday. Unfortunately the lads never performed on the day and did not qualify for National Féile. The lads still have league and championship to play for and they now see they need to up their work rate if they are to be successful in these competitions. Thanks to the parents who drove the squad to Convoy.

This weekend sees a lot of inter-county action for Donegal underage squads. First up on Friday evening the minors are up against Monaghan in the Ulster Shield semi-final. Stephen Anderson, Conal Sweeny and Brian McHenry are all part of this squad. On Saturday there are Ulster blitzes taking place in Owenbeg and Garvaghey. The under 14s are playing in Owenbeg and Shane Duffy is part of this squad. The under 15s and under 16s are in action in Garvaghey. Senan Rooney is on the under 15 squad, while Adam Rami is on the under 16 panel. We wish all the lads well and congratulate them all on making these squads.

Training as normal on Sunday.

Rory's Stories
Congratulations to Packie McGrath and everyone who helped stage a brilliant night of comedy at the Bridgend last Saturday. We had Rory's Stories topping the bill and he had them rolling in the aisles. All apart from Paul Kane who declined the opportunity to spar with Rory, leaving Cookie O'Halloran to step into the breach, which he did to his customary devastating effect. Rory was great value, but all the acts left the guests gasping for breath on a great evening of craic and entertainment.

Pitch Bookings
As we are in the high season for usage timely booking with Peter Conlon is essential. Where games are cancelled they must also be notified so that another club team can be facilitated. We have added pressure as we are taking Naomh Bríd home games for now in the adult grades due to their re-building of their own pitch. We are also taking Erne Gaels this Sunday 30th April at 1pm against Ederney.

Bingo
Last week's €400 bingo jackpot was won by Ann Gallagher of Erne Street, Ballyshannon. The last person standing on their feet for the stand-up game was Bernie O'Shea of Belleek, scooping the €135 pot. There was no winner of the spring snowball, so it climbs to €825 on 50 numbers or less. It's big bingo time again, with the April Big Bingo taking place this Friday 28th at 9pm at the Abbey Centre. There'll be a massive prize fund of €3,500, including the €1,000 jackpot game, so come along to have your chance to win. Books priced at €15 for full book, €8 for half book, or get the book and a half special deal for €20 - see you there.

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