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Club Notes Archive - 2020

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Box. July
7 July

Football
The seniors marked the return of football with probably the best attended challenge game in Aodh Ruadh's history last Sunday. Tattyreagh provided good opposition and there were a number decent showings from the homesters, especially the younger players. Blustery conditions made scoring tricky but there were some lovely second half points from Diarmaid McInerney, Peter Boyle and Mark McGlynn. There will be a lot of interest in the Donegal championship draws which take place this Thursday at 7pm. They will be streamed live on the Donegal GAA Facebook page and broadcast on Raidió na Gaeltachta. All adult club fixtures, including the Regional League fixtures, will be published on Friday. This Saturday the senior and reserves will have challenge matches in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh with the reserves throwing in at 10.30am and the senior game going off at 12 noon. Senior training continues on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. The reserves are training on Wednesday at 7pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh.

Also on Wednesday, the minor and under 16 boys are training at 4.30pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. Next Monday there will be minor training at 4.30pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh while the under 16s will be taking on Dungloe in Father Tierney Park at 7.30pm.

Under 14 boys are training on Wednesday at 5.45pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. This Saturday the under 12s will be training on the top pitch in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh at 12 noon. The under 10s are on the top field on Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5.45pm. On Friday the under 8s will be training on the top field in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh at 6.15pm. Also on Friday the under 6s will be training on the top field in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh at 6pm.

Ladies
Training is up and running for most ladies teams this week. The senior ladies train on Mondays at 8pm and Wednesday at 8.15pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. They are also looking forward to an away challenge against Derrygonnelly on Sunday. The under 16 and under 18 ladies train on Mondays at 7pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. The under 14 ladies train on Mondays at 6pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh and on Thursdays at 7.15pm at the top field in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. The under 12 ladies train on Tuesdays at 7pm at the top field in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. The under 10 ladies train on Wednesdays at 7pm at the top field in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. The under 8 ladies train on Wednesdays at 6pm at the top field in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. We ask all players, parent, guardians and mentors to ensure they have updated their return to play questionnaires prior to each session and match.

Hurling
Hurling training is swinging into action too. The senior team are training Wednesdays and Fridays at 8pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. Minor and under 16 hurling takes place on Wednesdays at 4.30pm. The under 14s and under 16s are in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 5pm.

Sanitising stations at Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh
There are three sanitising stations within the grounds at Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh, where training and coaching activity recommenced in recent days and will build up over the coming week to ten days as more age groups are catered for. The stations are located on the external wall of the toilet block and at the stiles on both sides of the main entrance.

Road access
Access to Father Tierney Park and Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh via the West Rock road is still blocked following an accident last week. Patrons are reminded to use the approach via the East Rock for the foreseeable future.

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14 July

Football
The draw for the Intermediate Senior and Reserve Football Championship took place last Thursday with the 12 teams being drawn into two groups of six. Aodh Ruadh were drawn in Group B alongside Burt, Cloich Cheann Fhaola, Gaeil Fhanáda, Naomh Bríd and Naomh Columba. The first round of games will be played on the weekend of July 31st to August 3rd with Aodh Ruadh opening against Burt in Ballyshannon. In round 2 they are away to Naomh Bríd. In round 3 they host Cloich Cheann Fhaola before wrapping up the group stages with the long trip north to face Gaeil Fhanáda. Aodh Ruadh also found out their opposition for the opening round of the regional leagues. They will take on Bundoran in Father Tierney Park this Friday at 7.30pm in a game which is sure to command plenty of local interest. The reserves will also be out in league action next Tuesday against Realt na Mara in Father Tierney Park at 7.30pm. Following those derby clashes, Aodh Ruadh will have league games against Saint Eunan's, Convoy, MacCumhaill's and Glenfin as they gear up for championship openers against Burt. Meanwhile the seniors and reserves were both in action on Saturday against Enniskillen Gaels. The seniors worked the bench for this one, but still had too much in hand for the Fermanagh men. The reserves had a harder time of it, but there were a number of eye-catching displays for boss Peter Gallagher to consider. We have pictures from the senior match and the reserve game live on aodhruadh.org now.

On Wednesday, the minor and under 16 boys are training at 4.30pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. Next Monday there will be minor training at 4.30pm.

The under 10s are on the top field on Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5.45pm. On Friday the under 8s will be training on the top field in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh at 6.15pm. Also on Friday the under 6s will be training on the top field in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh at 6pm.

Ladies
The senior ladies had a big squad out for a challenge against Derrygonnelly on Sunday in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. It was a welcome work-out for the panel, with some nice football on show from the homesters. We have some pictures from the action up on aodhruadh.org. They face Saint Naul's next Sunday in their opening game of the championship round robin stages. Throw in at Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh is at 10.30am, and we wish players and management best of luck.

On Monday evening the under 16s had a challenge against Grange in Father Tierney Park. Grange offered a strong opposition, but after a rocky opening for the homesters, Aodh Ruadh found their feet and ran out decent winners with some nice passages of play.

There will be training for senior, minor and under 16 ladies on Wednesday at 8.15pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh.

The under 14 ladies train on Mondays from 5.45pm to 7pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh and on Thursdays from 7.15pm to 8.15pm at the top field in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. They have their first competitive game of the season this Saturday when Ardara are the visitors to Ballyshannon for an 11am throw-in.

The under 12 ladies train on Tuesdays at 7pm at the top field in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. The under 10 ladies train on Wednesdays at 7pm at the top field in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. The under 8 ladies train on Wednesdays at 6pm at the top field in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh.

We ask all players, parents, guardians and mentors to ensure they have updated their return to play questionnaires prior to each session and match.

Hurling
The draw was made for the Junior Hurling Championship last week. Aodh Ruadh's bid to retain their crown begins on Sunday when they host the team they defeated in the 2019 decider, Carndonagh, in Father Tierney Park at 3pm. The remaining group stage games see Aodh Ruadh travelling to take on Letterkenny Gaels on Friday 24th July, before concluding their group stages campaign against Four Masters in Ballyshannon the following weekend.

Training schedule
There have been a few alterations to the training schedule. On Tuesday under 14 and under 16 hurling takes place at 8pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. On Thursday senior ladies football is allocated the top field in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh at 8.15pm. On Saturday at 4pm the under 14 boys football is allocated top field in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. All slots are now allocated so the school field is the stand-by for additional activity. Contact Tom Daly on scheduling matters.

Confirmed fixtures
Tuesday 14th July
Under 14 Girls Challenge: Aodh Ruadh v Bundoran in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh @ 5pm.

Wednesday 15th July
Senior Hurling Challenge: Aodh Ruadh v Naomh Eoin in Father Tierney Park @ 8pm.

Friday 17th July
ACFL Division 1: Aodh Ruadh v Bundoran in Father Tierney Park @ 7.30pm.

Saturday 18th July
Under 14 Girls League: Aodh Ruadh v Ardara in Father Tierney Park @ 11.30am.
Under 12 Boys Challenge: Aodh Ruadh v Grange in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh - top and bottom pitches @ 2pm.

Sunday 19th July
Senior Ladies Championship: Aodh Ruadh v Saint Naul’s in Father Tierney Park @ 10.30am.
Junior Hurling Championship: Aodh Ruadh v Carndonagh in Father Tierney Park @ 3pm.

Aodh Ruadh Golf Classic
The club are delighted to be hosting a Golf Classic in Bundoran Golf Club on Friday, 28th August. Places can be booked through the golf club on 071-9841302. We have eight team prizes, as well as prizes for the longest male and female drives, and nearest the pin. Up for grabs are a fourball at Portnoo, a fourball at Ballyliffin, and a fourball at Slieve Russell. To obtain a tee sponsorship contact William on 087-2799855.

Sanitising stations
Hand sanitisers are in place inside the entrance area and at the toilet block in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. At Fr Tierney Park hand sanitisers are in place at the changing rooms, Aras Aoidh Ruaidh and the entrance tunnel to the playing field. For spectators they are located near the entrance turnstiles and at the entrance to the stand. Social distancing signage has been put in place and should be observed.

Summer Camp
Regrettably, due to the Coronavirus pandemic and the restrictions associated with it, the Aodh Ruadh Summer Camp will not take place this year.

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21 July

Football
Aodh Ruadh got the 2020 season off to a welcome, if belated start with a hard fought 3-13 to 2-11 win over Bundoran. The game's turning point came 12 minutes in when Ciaran McCaughey got his marching orders and Bundoran were reduced to 14 men. Up to that point the Seasiders had been cutting their way through the homesters with ominous ease. Indeed they continued to carry the game to Ballyshannon over the remainder of the half and into the third quarter before tiredness took it's toll and Aodh Ruadh began to make the extra man count. Michael McEniff netted for the visitors with a scuffed shot with less than 30 seconds played, Philip Patton responded with two frees. Cian McEniff and Philip Patton then swapped scores before McCaughey departed stage left. Despite that setback Bundoran dominated the rest of the half, hitting five unanswered points on the spin. David Dolan finally broke the run of scoring for Terry McCann's men, but Shane Carr hit back an answering point. A rare Johnny Gethins point was the last score of the half to send Aodh Ruadh in trailing 1-7 to 0-6. Alan Russell and Nathan Boyle exchanged points on the restart before the game's second goal arrived on 34 minutes. A shot by Nathan Boyle fell short and Eamonn McGrath was alert and fisted to the net from a prone position. Russell hit another point for the Seasiders, but white flags from David Dolan (2) and Philip Patton finally took Ballyshannon into the lead. Aodh Ruadh turned the screw as the game moved to the final quarter when another Nathan Boyle effort came back high off the upright and David Dolan won possession only to be fouled for a penalty. Philip Patton made no mistake from the spot. A trademark long range screamer from Nathan Boyle further stretched the hosts lead. After the water break it was brother Peter who was performing the heroics up the other end, pulling off an amazing reaction save to deny Oisin Walsh. Niall Carr and Diarmaid McInerney both found the net in the game's latter stages, but, while there was plenty of tension in the closing moments, at Jimmy White's long whistle it was Aodh Ruadh who had secured a just about deserved five point victory. Peter Boyle made some crucial saves over the course of the game and got great cover from Sean Taylor, Eddie Lynch and Johnny Gallagher. Philip Patton's metronomic reliability once again proved priceless, with injury returnee David Dolan becoming a growing threat as the game wore on. Nathan Boyle also caused the Seasiders' plenty of problems. One downbeat note from the night was the loss of Damien Cleary only just back from injury. We all wish Damien a speedy recovery. Meanwhile congratulations are due to Mark McGlynn and Senan Rooney on making their senior competitive debuts for Aodh Ruadh. The game was streamed live on the club's Facebook page and we owe a big debt of gratitude to Michael Daly who did a brilliant job on commentary with people tuning in from right around the world. Team and scorers for Aodh Ruadh on Friday were: Peter Boyle; Calum O'Halloran, Sean Taylor, Michael McKenna; Eddie Lynch (0-1), Johnny Gallagher, Conor Patton; Damien Cleary, Eamonn McGrath (1-0); David Dolan (0-4), Philip Patton (1-4, pen, 3f), Nathan Boyle (0-2); Johnny Gethins (0-1), Oisin Rooney, Ryan Granaghan. Subs: Shane Gillespie for Damien Cleary; Diarmaid McInerney (1-0) for Ryan Granaghan; Mark McGlynn for Calum O'Halloran; Senan Rooney for Oisin Rooney. The seniors next outing is at the immaculate St Mary's Park against Convoy on Friday evening at 7.30pm.

The reserves coasted through their opening regional league match against Realt na Mara on Saturday evening, with Peter Gallagher having a large and strong squad available for his first match at the helm. Points from Darren Gethins, Daniel McGullion and two from Odhran McGarrigle had the home side in a 0-4 to 0-1 lead at the water break. Immediately from the restart Jamie McDonald palmed in from Darren Drummond’s pass for the game's first goal. Points followed from McDonald and McGarrigle, but the game was looking safe when Darren Gethins flicked McDonald's cross field pass for the second green flag. Gethins, McDonald, McGarrigle and Drummond each added a score to see Aodh Ruadh into command a lead of 2-10 to 0-2 at half time. The scoring continued with another two fine points from Odhran McGarrigle. Subs Dermot Slevin and Michael 'Sticky' Ward showed their class and experience with a sublime goal, Slevin side stepping his man before curling an out-swinger to Sticky who duly found the top corner with his shot, quality all over it! Bundoran pulled a goal back through Ryan Walsh but it was too little too late. Shane Brady, introduced for the final quarter for his reserve debut, showed great composure to slot his shot past the keeper for Aodh Ruadh's fourth goal. Further points from Drummond, a fine score from Dan Warnock and a McDonald brace finished this rout at 4-17 to 1-3. Great performances throughout, Odhran McGarrigle really catching the eye and deadly with the placed ball. Eugene Doherty and Odhran O’Neill can also be happy with their first outings, whilst Gary Carty was a pillar in defence.
Team: Karl O’Brien; Michael Ward, Gary Carty, Eugene Doherty; Ciaran Slevin, Daniel McGullion (0-1) Daniel Warnock (0-1); Tiernan Dolan, Kerry Ryan; Odhran O’Neill, Darren Drummond (0-4), Odhran McGarrigle (0-6, 4f); Ryan McKenna, Jamie McDonald (1-4, 1f), Darren Gethins (1-1). Subs: Sticky Ward for McGullion; Christopher Goan for M Ward; Dermot Slevin for O O’Neill; Shane Brady for McGarrigle; Aaron Brennan for Gethins.

On Wednesday, the minors are training at 4.30pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh ahead of their first league game the following Wednesday.

Under 16 training continues on Wednesdays and Mondays at 4.30pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh.

Training continues for under 14s on Wednesdays from 5.45pm to 6.45pm and on Saturdays from 4pm to 5.30pm.

The under 12s entertained Grange for a challenge match on Saturday with plenty of good football on show and the craic being enjoyed by all. under 12 training continues on Tuesday evening at 7pm in the School field.

The under 10s training continues on the top field on Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5.45pm.

The under 8s are back to their normal time slot of Friday from 6.15pm to 7.15pm this week. The under 7 and under 8 skills tests will take place at this Friday's training, so full attendance encouraged.

Also on Friday the under 6s will be training on the top field in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh at 6pm.

Ladies
Saint Naul's came into Sunday's ladies intermediate championship opener as warm favourites, and justified that favouritism to run out 1-11 to 2-4 victors in Father Tierney Park. However Aodh Ruadh managed to stay in touch with the Mountcharles girls and will know they have capacity to build on this display and develop strongly over the coming matches in the championship round robin stages. Ballyshannon had the wind in the first half and had great goal from Briana Maher augmented by points from Áine Gilmore. It was Saint Naul's who lead by a point at the turnaround though and they gradually pulled away over the course of the second half to secure the win. Nevertheless a Terri Gallagher goal and points from Caoimhe Keon and Tia McFarland ensured it wasn't an easy ride for them. Aodh Ruadh had good displays from Sarah Gallagher at three, and Orlaith Gillespie and Andrea McGlynn in the half back line. Caoimhe Keon was phenomenal in the middle of the field, while up front Áine Gilmore constructed some nice spells of play and took some good scores with Terri Gallagher and Cáit Gillespie working hard to make themselves available too. We have a full match report and pictures from the game up on aodhruadh.org. Next up for the Shamettes is the trip up the N15 to Tir Chonaill Park to take on Four Masters. That second round championship game is next Sunday with a 10.30am throw-in.

The minors had a testing run out against a slick Drumcliffe Rosses Point side last Thursday. While Orla Keon gave a sensational display, there were plenty of lessons to be learned ahead of the side's opening championship game against Killybegs on Tuesday evening. Throw-in for that game in Fintra is 6.30pm.

There will be training for senior, minor and under 16 ladies on Wednesday at 8.15pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh.

The under 14 girls got their season up and running in impressive fashion on Saturday morning against a hotly fancied Ardara side. Aodh Ruadh started with a steady wind at their backs and over the course of the first quarter they worked their way to a five point to no score lead courtesy of Dairín Sweeny (0-4) and Cádhla Dolan. On 19 minutes Erin O'Loughlin sent over a fine score with Dairín Sweeny and Cádhla Dolan adding points before Ardara struck for their first score of the game on 25 minutes. It was a goal and coming against the wind it was a big score to concede. However the Ernesiders knuckled down and strung together some lovely passages of play which saw Cádhla Dolan tucking home nice low shot, before the tigerish Andrea Moore netted to leave it 3-7 to 0-1 at the break. Aodh Ruadh faced the breeze after the break and played football beyond their years to break Ardara's attempts to leverage the wind advantage. A Jodie Meade point two minutes after the restart was a great shot in the arm. Ardara came back with a goal, but Hannah McGuinness showed a great pair of hands before firing over a second point to make it 3-9 to 1-1 going into the last 15 minutes. Aodh Ruadh were scoreless over that period, but with the visitors only able to add 1-3 to their tally, the homesters had done enough to earn a 3-9 to 2-4 victory. The game was won in the third quarter with Aodh Ruadh retaining possession cleverly and making the most of their scoring opportunities. Fódhla Sheerin kept her defence well marshalled, with Jessica O'Mahoney supplying good assistance. Erin O'Loughlin was immense in midfield and worked relentlessly throughout. Up front Dairín Sweeny was a great focal point for the attack. Player of the match was the pocket rocket Andrea Moore who regularly beat players to the ball who had a two metre head start on her. A very impressive performance which bodes well for the remaining games this season. Next up is a long trip to Dungloe who won against Gaoth Dobhair in their first game of the league last week. The under 14s train on Mondays from 5.45pm to 7pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh and on Thursdays from 7.15pm to 8.15pm at the top field in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh.

The under 12 ladies train on Tuesdays at 7pm at the top field in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. The under 10 ladies train on Wednesdays at 7pm at the top field in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. The under 8 ladies train on Wednesdays at 6pm at the top field in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh.

We ask all players, parents, guardians and mentors to ensure they have updated their return to play questionnaires prior to each session and match.

Hurling
Carndonagh gained revenge for defeat in last year's junior final by Aodh Ruadh with a comprehensive victory in Father Tierney Park on a summery Sunday afternoon. The Inishowen men were on top in practically every position, and with John O'Donnell and Cathal Doherty in fine scoring form they just had too much fire power for the Ernesiders. Senan Rooney was Ballyshannon's only real threat and Carndonagh targeted him with some heavy challenges. Carndonagh had the ball in the net with less than 30 seconds on the clock and John O'Donnell struck twice more to leave the visitors three goals to the good at the interval. Aodh Ruadh were slightly better in the second half, but with O'Donnell netting once again with 44 minutes played the result was decided long before the final whistle, Aodh Ruadh 0-9 Carndonagh 4-14 the final score. Senan Rooney was the one shining light for Aodh Ruadh, with Pauric Keenaghan also offering some resistance to the Carndonagh onslaught. We have a full match report and pictures from the game up on aodhruadh. org. Next up for the senior hurlers is the trip north to take on Letterkenny Gaels on Friday evening at 7.30pm.

Thursday evening sees the first underage fixtures this season. The minors are on the road to take on Dungloe at 7pm, while the under 14s host Four Masters for another 7pm throw in.

Aodh Ruadh Golf Classic
The club are delighted to be hosting a Golf Classic in Bundoran Golf Club on Friday, 28th August. Places can be booked through the golf club. We have eight team prizes, as well as prizes for the longest male and female drives, and nearest the pin. Up for grabs are fourballs at Portnoo, Murvagh, Ballyliffin, and Slieve Russell; Vouchers for Druids Golf, Fletcher Golf and Bundoran Golf Club, plus loads more prizes. To obtain a tee sponsorship contact William on 087-2799855.

Sanitising stations
Hand sanitisers are in place inside the entrance area and at the toilet block in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. At Fr Tierney Park hand sanitisers are in place at the changing rooms, Aras Aoidh Ruaidh and the entrance tunnel to the playing field. For spectators they are located near the entrance turnstiles and at the entrance to the stand. Social distancing signage has been put in place and should be observed

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28 July

Club meeting
There will be a meeting of the club executive committee this Thursday at 9pm in the Rock Hall. All committee members are asked to attend.

Football
Aodh Ruadh overcame a dogged Convoy challenge to record their second win of the regional league campaign. A Philip Patton free was the first salvo in a low-scoring first half. Shane Gillespie followed that up with a good point from play before Peter Boyle landed a trademark long range free. A fantastic individual goal from David Dolan then gave Aodh Ruadh some breathing space before a Philip Patton free sent the Ernesiders in leading at the break, 1-4 to 0-4. The hosts deployed a defensive set-up, but Ballyshannon steadily took charge over the course of the second half. A superb long long range free from Nathan Boyle got Aodh Ruadh on their way, and not long after Boyle was fouled for a penalty which Diarmaid McInerney tucked away to put some clear blue water between the sides. In their flow now, a good passing move was well finished to the net by Johnny Gethins. There were further quality scores from Ryan Granaghan and Cian Dolan, plus a fisted effort by Johnny Gethins as Aodh Ruadh ran out 3-10 to 0-7 winners. The Aodh Ruadh starting 15 were Peter Boyle; Mark McGlynn, Colm Kelly, Michael McKenna; Eddie Lynch, Johnny Gallagher, Shane Gillespie; Cian Dolan, Sean Taylor; Diarmaid McInerney, Philip Patton, Nathan Boyle; Johnny Gethins, David Dolan, Senan Rooney.

Attention turns to championship matters this week when Burt are the guests in Ballyshannon on Saturday evening as Aodh Ruadh begin their bid for Intermediate Championship honours. Throw-in at Father Tierney Park will be at 7.30pm

The reserves followed up on the seniors good win last Friday evening with a solid 1-17 to 2-7 victory in Convoy. A strange situation to play a full game under floodlights in July, but needs must in these times! Peter Gallagher again had a massive panel to pick from and was able to put out a strong team. Eoin Doherty got the scoring underway, before David McGurrin had a hat-trick of points and a tidy Dan Warnock score opened a five point lead. When Paddy Gillespie slotted into the bottom corner of the net after eight minutes it looked like game could be a whitewash. But credit to Naomh Mhuire, they clawed back to within a point with an unanswered 1-4. McGurrin, Warnock and Odhran McGarrigle got Aodh Ruadh back on track to lead 1-8 to 1-4 at half-time. A Gillespie brace and a McGarrigle free stretched the lead further, but again Convoy weren’t for lying down and replied with another 1-3 to leave just a point in it. But it was the visitors who would finish the stronger with six scores without reply from Doherty (3), McGurrin, Shane Brady and Daniel McGullion. Best for Aodh Ruadh were Eoin Doherty and David McGurrin who had nine points between them, whilst Eugene Doherty is settling in well at half back and covered great ground with fellow half back Daniel McGullion.
Team: Karl O’Brien; Callum O’Halloran, Gary Carty, Michael Ward; Eugene Doherty, Daniel McGullion (0-1), Daniel Warnock (0-2); Kerry Ryan, Darren Gethins; Odhrán O’Neill, David McGurrin (0-5), Paddy Gillespie (1-2); Ryan McKenna, Odhrán McGarrigle (0-2; 1f), Eoin Doherty (0-4). Subs: Ciaran Slevin for Dan Warnock (inj), Shane Brady (0-1) for O’Neill, Dermot Slevin for McKenna, Ryan O’Brien for Eugene Doherty, Chris Goan, James O’Donnell, Sticky Ward.

After an intensive pre-season Peter Boyle's minors get their competitive season up and running this Wednesday when they make the short hop over Finner hill to take on Bundoran. Throw-in at Gaelic Park is at 7pm.

Under 16 training continues on Wednesdays and Mondays at 4.30pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh.

Like the minors, our under 14s are also commencing their season with an away clash against Realt na Mara, throw-in is at 8.15pm in Bundoran. Training continues on Saturdays from 4pm to 5.30pm.

After an enjoyable pre-season challenge against Erne Gaels last Saturday, the under 12s are also in action against Bundoran this week. They will be hosting the Seasiders on the Rock on Saturday morning with the action getting under way at 11am. Training continues on Tuesday evening at 7pm in the School field.

The under 10 footballers travelled to Melvin Gaels, Kinlough last Wednesday night for their first game of the season. Fielding two teams, both games were very competitive with strong performances from some of the younger members of the squad. Training continues every Tuesday and Thursday at 5.45pm. The next fixture is away to Saint Mary's, Sligo this Saturday with the action getting going at 10am.

Our under 7s and under 8s completed their skills tests last Friday with the boys really enjoying the challenge. We return to training this Friday from 6.15pm to 7.15pm, when the boys who missed last week's test will have an opportunity to give it a crack.

Also on Friday the under 6s will be training on the top field in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh at 6pm.

Ladies
The seniors secured their first win of the championship group stages with a 4-8 to 2-4 away victory over Four Masters on Sunday morning. It was nip and tuck over the course of the first half, with only two points separating the sides at the turn around. Aodh Ruadh took charge of matters in the second half however, with only a dubious penalty helping to keep the homesters in the chase. Natasha Gormley had a fine outing between the posts, with Sarah Gallagher in excellent form at full back once again. Further out the pitch Caoimhe Keon and Cáit Gillespie got through a huge amount of work with Áine Gilmore, Orlaith Gillespie and Meabh Rooney among the goals for the visitors. Next up for the Ernesiders is the visit of basement side Carndonagh to Father Tierney Park this Sunday at 10.30am.

The minor ladies got their season off to a winning start with a hard-fought victory for Killybegs last Tuesday. Aodh Ruadh dominated the first half in Fintra and steadily worked their way into a good lead. Points from Orla and Caoimhe Keon and a Niamh Hughes goal were answered by a brace of Killybegs points to leave it 1-2 to 0-2 after 11 minutes. From there Ballyshannon took charge of the game for a 15 minute spell. Points from Orla Keon (2), Lucy McGlynn (2) and Aoibhínn McGarrigle had Aodh Ruadh eight points clear as the break beckoned. Killybegs did hit two points ahead of the interval, but a fine Caoimhe Keon score meant that Aodh Ruadh lead well at the turnaround 1-8 to 0-4. The second half looked set to follow a similar pattern when Aoibhínn McGarrigle slotted a free three minutes in. The homesters weren't going to lie down though and hit 1-3 in a scorching six minute spell running up to the second water break to leave just two points between the sides. Aodh Ruadh reacted to the challenge well, with Katie O'Brien landing a well worked point which was quickly followed by a Tia McFarland score. A Killybegs free on 47 minutes kept that dangerous goal margin between the sides, but Tia McFarland found the range again four minutes later to give the hard pressed Ernesiders some breathing space. The drama wasn't over quite yet though. Five minutes from time a penalty was awarded against the Shamettes, Bridín Maguire crowned an excellent game with a great save which effectively decided the result in the visitors favour. Defensively Síofra Hughes and Eva Moore were very strong, while Lucy McGlynn also offered great attacking from depth. Caoimhe Keon continued her impressive form this season with another dynamic midfield display. Up front Orla Keon was her side's main outlet, with Tia McFarland and Katie O'Brien offering good outlets and taking important scores. It's a valuable win on the road for Aodh Ruadh who now face Saint Naul's in Father Tierney Park on Tuesday evening at 6.30pm.

There will be training for senior, minor and under 16 ladies on Wednesday at 8.15pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh.

The Aodh Ruadh under 14s made the long run up to Dungloe on Saturday morning for the second game of their league campaign. They were facing a very strong home side who are the current county champions. They lived up to that billing, but the Ballyshannon girls gave it everything and worked hard right to the last whistle. It was a big team effort, but the early start and the long journey took its toll on the girls and despite their very best efforts they fell short. The referee complimented the team on representing their club and families well with the sporting manner they conducted themselves. Many thanks to the parents who helped transport the players down. Aodh Ruadh now find themselves facing another long journey this Sunday morning to battle it out with Gaoth Dobhair, with the winner taking a place in the Cup semi-finals. The team are back out training on Thursday evening in preparation for the match which is scheduled for Sunday at 12 noon in Gaoth Dobhair. Finally we want to send good wishes to the girls making their Confirmation this weekend and our very best wishes to Abbie Gallagher who sustained a broken finger in the match last Saturday.

The under 12s had a highly entertaining challenge against Grange on Saturday afternoon, doing well to avoid the day's downpours. There were lots of lively performances across the pitch and only a point separated the teams at full time after some great football by both sides. Our scorers were Rachel 'The Red Rocket' Gillespie (1-2), Ciara Larkin (1-2), Ellen Monaghan (1-1), Laoise Foy (1-0), and Niamh Duffy (0-2). There was some great defending by Áine Neilan, Lily O'Donnell, Hannah Downey and Caitlin McGuinness, while Megan Murphy was very busy in the middle of the park and Katie McGowan steady between the posts. Under 12 training continues on Tuesdays at 7pm at the top field in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh.

The under 10 ladies train on Wednesdays at 7pm at the top field in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. The under 8 ladies train on Wednesdays at 6pm at the top field in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh.

We ask all players, parents, guardians and mentors to ensure they have updated their return to play questionnaires prior to each session and match.

Hurling
The senior hurlers' championship clash with Letterkenny Gaels has been rescheduled to August Bank Holiday Monday with a 3pm throw-in.

The minors opening game of 2020 against Dungloe fell by the wayside last week. They enjoy home comforts this Thursday, with Saint Eunan's the visitors to Father Tierney Park for a 7pm throw-in.

It was disappointment for the under 14s who turned out in great numbers for what was to be for their first game of the season, only for Four Masters to forfeit the fixture. The lads will be looking to finally get their season up and running this Thursday against MacCumhaill's, with throw-in at 7pm down in Ballybofey.

Charity Swim
This weekend will see a number of our club members taking part in a charity swim from Creevy Pier to Rossnowlagh Beach (3.7km) in aid of Connect Mental Health. Connect Mental Health is a community mental health organisation promoting positive mental health in Donegal through an annual programme of events, online workshops and supports delivered directly to young people and adults in the local community. All funds raised will go directly to supporting workshops, events and support material. David McLoone, Philip McLoone, Michael McGrath, Donald Hannigan, Philip O'Reilly, Rory O’Neill, Ivan O’Mahony, Ciaran Ferguson, Brian McGuinness, Chris Britton and McCumhaill's stalwart Shane McNulty will be taking the plunge to raise money for this great cause. The group have a GoFundMe page where any sponsorship is greatly appreciated. There has been fantastic support for the local community so far. If you would like to sponsor a swimmer please visit the GoFundMe page and don't be afraid to give generously.

Condolences
The club extends condolences to the Rooney family on the passing of Doreen Rooney, Eyrecourt, Galway. Beloved wife of Joe, predeceased by her sisters Pamela and Olive and brother John Jr, deeply regretted by her husband and sons David and John, sister Kyra, brother Tommy, daughters-in-law Suzanna and Eleanor, grandchilden, Oisin, Meabh and Senan, and extended family and friends.
The club also extends condolences to Angela and Malachy Gallagher of Coolcholly on the passing recently of their son Daniel. Also to Daniel’s sister Annie and the extended Gallagher family. Daniel, who has passed away in his mid-20s came to Aodh Ruadh in the younger age groups and is fondly remembered by his contemporaries and all who knew him. A minutes silence was observed in his memory at our recent home league game.
Condolences also to the Drummond family of Finner on the passing of Eddie Drummond. Beloved husband of the late Philippine, Father of sons Kieran, Enda and daughter Francis, he will be sadly missed by his extended and friends.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam uasal.

Sideline protocols
For all codes and age groups there is a maximum of five substitutes and four team personnel allowed on the sideline during games. Additional substitutes must go outside the pitch boundary before the game starts. Where dug outs are used, the minimum social distancing of two metres must be observed in all cases. These requirements are to be monitored by the team Covid Officer on duty with the home team concerned. We urge all to continue the current level of good co-operation.

Aodh Ruadh Golf Classic
The club are hosting a Golf Classic in Bundoran Golf Club on Friday, 28th August. Places can be booked through the golf club on 071-9841302, or on the Aodh Ruadh Klubfunder page. We have eight team prizes, as well as prizes for the longest male and female drives, and nearest the pin. Up for grabs are fourballs at Portnoo, Murvagh, Ballyliffin, and Slieve Russell; Vouchers for Druids Golf, Fletcher Golf and Bundoran Golf Club, plus loads more prizes. To obtain a tee sponsorship contact William on 087-2799855.

Sanitising stations
Hand sanitisers are in place inside the entrance area and at the toilet block in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. At Father Tierney Park hand sanitisers are in place at the changing rooms, Aras Aoidh Ruaidh and the entrance tunnel to the playing field. For spectators they are located near the entrance turnstiles and at the entrance to the stand. Social distancing signage has been put in place and should be observed. As Covid regulations require separation of players and spectators, entry to Father Tierney Park for spectators is via the upper turnstiles at the original main entrance to the grounds.

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