Report by Niall Egan
On Saturday the 1st of August, a group of under 13’s made history by comprehensively winning the Kilkenny Supporter’s Club Shield at Lisdowney for the first time in the club’s existence. On the day, conditions were perfect for hurling and as the day unfolded it transpired that the team were in perfect condition!
First up in the quarter final the GBC boys met Naas. As was their form throughout the tournament, GBC started with determination and Oisín Egan, who was outstanding all day, goaled early. Hardworking Scott Lawlor quickly followed with a point. Naas then replied with two points. Our back line of Eoin Delahunty and J.J. Ryan began to get on top, while Brendan Dunne and Scott dominated mid-field. Then a second goal from Oisín, followed by a super save from goal keeper of the tournament Dan Cahill, gave us a 2-4 to 0-4 lead at half time. In the second half the prowess of Eoin and J.J. drove the team on from defence. Up front, the troublesome duo of Oisín and Paddy were causing Naas huge problems. The second half saw the team run out convincing winners in the end, on a score line of 5-7 to 0-5. Scorers: O. Egan 5-5 (2 f), P. Brennan 0-1, S. Lawlor 0-1.
Next up was the semi-final against a tough Harps of Durrow side, who had convincingly beaten Dunamaggin in their quarter final and who had run up impressive scores. GBC got off to an early lead as Oisín popped over two points. Then Durrow banged in 1-02 to take the lead. In the middle of the field Brendan Dunne, who read the game brilliantly all day and Scott Lawlor settled into their roles and began to dominate sending in ball to nifty Paddy Brennan who goaled, and then setting up Oisín with great ball who duly obliged scoring 2-2. At the interval, the half-time score read 3-5 GBC, 1-4 Harps.
Playing against the wind in the 2nd half none stood taller than Eoin Delahunty at centre back who drove out time after time with ball to set up the frontline with attacks. He was ably assisted by cool J.J. Ryan and Dan Cahill taking off some inspirational saves. Once again the forwards Oisín and Paddy were quick to turn any given ball into a score. At the final whistle, GBC had won a testing game on a score-line of 5-7 to The Harp’s 2-5. This match proved the boys could drive on from here and they contemplated winning the final of the shield. Scorers: O. Egan 3-6 (3 F), P. Brennan 2-1.
And so the final, against city rivals O’Loughlin Gaels was imminent. GBC were under no illusions, but equally under no threat judging by their form on the day! O’ Loughlin’s stormed into the game scoring 1-1. The boys then settled when Oisín Egan scored 1-2 to take the lead. Yet again the city side came on the attack and scored another goal. Before the half-time whistle, the ‘never say die backs’ had got to grips with the O’ Loughlin’s attack and the ever-accurate Oisín Egan had put us marginally ahead. The electronic scoreboard read GBC 2-5 O’ Loughlin’s 2-3.
No talking needed at the half-time interval as the body language of the young boys indicated they weren’t going to let this lead slip. From the off-set of the second-half, the work-rate of the team was admirable. Against the wind, the boys knocked up 3-5, conceding only 3 points. From our super goalie, to our unforgiving backs, onto the restless midfield and up to the graceful forwards, a whole team performance won this game. Their desire to win meant that the final whistle determined a score-line of 5-10 to 2-6. A tremendous finish to such a prestigious tournament. The boys made history and did it in style. Scorers: O. Egan 3-8 (4 F), P. Brennan 2-2, S. Lawlor 1-0).
A big thank you to Lisdowney GAA Club for hosting this well-run tournament. Special thanks also to mentors Niall, Martin, Paul and Thomas Ryan over the two weeks incorporating the tournament.
The Team in a Nut-Shell
Dan Cahill: Confident all through-out the tournament, quick off his line, great shot stopper and puck-outs a highlight.
J.J.Ryan: There’s one J.J. retired and another just getting started! Tough, tight and gave nothing away softly.
Eoin Delahunty: Inspirational figure at centre back, gives nothing less than 100% every time. Held down the ‘danger-men’ all day.
Brendan Dunne: Probably his finest display so far. Playing a defensive mid-field role, read the game so well and delivery to forwards superb.
Scott Lawlor: What an engine box, incorporating great blocks and hooks as well as getting in some crucial scores.
Paddy Brennan: Came into his own in the semi-final and final. Quick feet, lovely touch and some great scores.
Oisín Egan: Captain fantastic. Led from the front and put up big scores in all the games. His work-rate inspired team-mates all day.
Jack Walton: When called on, he steadied the ship. Put in a great 2nd half in the final, bravely blocking a certain goal.
John Muldowney: Determined and gave his all to add fresh legs to the forward line. Unlucky not to score a goal after a super catch in the final.
Kevin Ging: Tigerish defender. Tough in the tackle and plays the game in a sporting manner. (Unfortunately was unavailable on 2nd day.)
Craig Lawlor: filled in for Kevin on the final weekend. Didn’t put a foot wrong when he was called on.
