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Under 16 Hurling
U16 Hurling Friendly: Bredagh 4.-08 1-03 Glenarm
"What a difference a week makes" was the comment made by U16 lead coach Eugene Irwin following this impressive victory by Bredagh's U16's over Eamon Mulvenna's home club, Glenarm. In truth, the Bredagh performance in this match was in marked contrast to the drab display produced the previous week against Warrenpoint. This was a crisp and skilful performance from the Bredagh lads against a strong Glenarm team and despite only using key players like Conal Mulholland, Eoghan Curran, Ciaran Kelly and Kealin Devlin sparingly during the match (and being without talisman Damhan Farmer altogether) the Ormeau Road boys managed to rack up a respectable score against the North Antrim lads.
Goals from James Cormican and Ryan Curran and a point from a free from Emmet Dougan gave Bredagh a one point lead at half time, despite the concession of a poor goal to the Glenarm boys. A key feature of the first half and indeed of the entire game was the outstanding performances from Jordan O'Dowd, Ciaran Fitzpatrick, Kealin Devlin and Danny Robinson in the middle third and Conrad Quinn in the full-back line, with Jordan marginally shading Ciaran for the "man of the match" gong.
Second half
The second half of the match saw Bredagh's forwards take control with Niall Irwin in particular standing out, tagging on one goal and two points after entering the fray as a second half substitute. However, Jack Hollywood's point from wide on the right was the score of the game and two excellent points from the ever-reliable Eoghan Curran topped an almost perfect forwards' display in the second period. The management team noted the ease with which Eoghan took his scores and he is surely an option for the front six in future games against the Ard's teams. Specific mention must also be made of Aaron Maguire's perfect "snig" on the Glenarm goalkeeper which led to young Ronan McKegney riffling the sliother to the net for Bredagh's fourth and final goal. Bredagh's other second half scores came by way of points from Ciaran Kelly and Conal Mulholland, who went on to star for the minors in the league play-off with Leitroim later on in the evening.
At the end of the game coach Lorenzo McMullan summed up the game by stating: "Glenarm were a strong, skilful team and our boys knew they would have to play to the best of their capabilities to get a victory in this game. They did just that and some of our hurling was a joy to behold, particularly in the second half. The game also gave us the opportunity to give some of our rising U14 players, and lads like Stephen O'Connor and David Malanaphy, the chance to show what they can contribute to the team and all of these boys showed up well on the day. We've all said it before, but it's worth repeating again, there are no prima-donnas in this squad, just lads who are passionate about their hurling and I can say without fear of contradiction that this is one of the best squads of juvenile hurlers that we've ever had here in the Bredagh club."
Bredagh Squad: Conal Mulholland, Ciaran McFarland, Conrad Quinn, Michael Doran, Ryan Curran, Ciaran Fitzpatrick, Jordan O'Dowd, Danny Robinson, Kealin Devlin, Emmet Dougan, Ben McCaughey, David Malanaphy, Stephen O’Connor, James Cormican, Jack Hollywood, Ciaran Kelly, Lorcan McMullan, Niall Irwin, Eoghan Curran, Aaron Maguire, Ronan McKegney.
u16 HL Play-off: Bredagh 3-08 1-01 Warrenpoint
The old saying “All’s well that ends well” is probably the most appropriate comment about this match, from a Bredagh perspective and at the end the final result ensured that Bredagh’s Under 16 hurlers now progress to the A league where they will compete against the illustrious Ards clubs.
In reflection this was a poor performance from a Bredagh U16 team which has performed outstandingly well in previous games this year. This included a comprehensive victory over Monday’s opponents in the St Enda’s blitz a few weeks back. There is no doubt that complacency played its part in the Bredagh team’s performance in this match and that they were extremely fortunate to escape with this margin of victory against a “fired-up” and skilful Warrenpoint team. Indeed, Bredagh were very fortunate to be leading at 2.3 to 1.0 at half time and but for some wayward shooting from the Point’s forwards and excellent defensive performances from Michael Doran and Ciaran McFarlane, Bredagh could well have been in arrears at the break. Bredagh’s first half scores came by way of majors from James Cormican and Conal Mulholland, with Conal and Ciaran Kelly (2) adding on the three minors.
Second half
The initial part of the second half was more of the same from a Bredagh perspective, with most players continuing to perform way below their capabilities. The introduction of Kaelan Devlin, Lorcan McMullan, Jordan O’Dowd and David Malanaphy brought life to what was a very flat Bredagh performance, with Kaelan in particular stamping his authority all over the game in midfield upon his introduction. This inspired the rest of the team to greater effort and the standard of play improved significantly in the final 20 minutes. During this time Ciaran Kelly came storming into the game and contributed a further 3 points, with Conal Mulholland pointing a free and young Lorcan McMullan tagging on an excellent point. Bredagh’s other score came courtesy of a well struck ground stroke from Damhan Farmer, who had been reintroduced to the game for the final 10 minutes.
Manager disappointed
Reflecting on the game U16 manager Eugene Irwin commented: "Overall this was a very disappointing display from the team with only Ciaran McFarlane, Michael Doran and the four second half substitutes meriting any significant degree of praise for their efforts. Other’s such as Ciaran Kelly Ryan Curran and Conal Mulholland played in fits and starts, but most of the lads underperformed and will want to move on quickly and put this match behind them.”
“On a more positive note, it was very satisfying to be able to introduce substitutes of the calibre of Kaelan Devlin, Lorcan McMullan, Jordan O’Dowd and David Malanaphy in the second half. This confirms the management team’s view that this squad has excellent strength in depth. However, they will need to perform significantly better to compete with the Ards teams; but we know that they can and will do this. They are a great bunch of lads and will quickly get back on track, such is their enthusiasm for the game of hurling and their desire to compete at the highest level in Down”
Bredagh Squad: Jack Hollywood, Ciaran McFarland, Conrad Quinn, Michael Doran, Ryan Curran, Eoghan Curran, Ciaran Fitzpatrick, Damhan Farmer, Danny Robinson, Emmet Dougan, Conal Mulholland, Ciaran Kelly, Niall Irwin, James Cormican, Ben McCaughey, Kealin Devlin, Lorcan McMullan, Jordan O'Dowd, David Malanaphy, Stephen O’Connor.
Bredagh lads star on county team
Eoghan Curran, Kaelan Devlin, Jack Hollywood and Niall Irwin played for the u15 Down hurlers in a blitz in Monaghan. Although they were beaten in their matches against Armagh, Derry and Antrim all the Bredagh players performed very well.
Eoghan Curran was superb in around the midfield and half back line
Bredagh and Carryduff players enjoyed the Down development experience.
U16 League: Kliclief v Bredagh
Bredagh's Under 16 hurlers travelled to Kilclief on Friday 4th April minus Conrad Quinn, Danny Robinson and David Malanaphy only to find that Kilclief were having difficulty fielding a team on the night. Both management teams quickly agreed that a friendly match would be played and Bredagh duly loaned Kilclief several players to balance the teams.
Although the score line was academic, the match proved to be a useful run out for all of the players involved and there were continuing signs of the excellent progress being made by what is an extremely dedicated squad of Breadgh players.
Kealin Devlin made his return from a broken collar bone on the night, playing in goals and proved to be an excellent replacement for Jack Hollywood, who was placed at corner-forward on the Bredagh team, proving himself to be a very fine forward with his excellent link-up play and score taking. Defenders Jordan O'Dowd, Ciaran McFarland, Michael Doran, Eoghan Curran and Ciaran Fitzpatrick continue to make great strides, with Jordan meriting special mention for an excellent all-round performance in what was his first game of the season.
Damhan Farmer and Conal Mulholland dominated midfield to such an extent that Damhan was switched to the Kilclief team for the second half. In the forwards Ryan Curran, Emmet Dougan, Ciaran Kelly, Niall Irwin, James Cormican, Jack Hollywood and Ben McCaughey ran amok and produced some excellent phases of play, taking scores from all angles of the pitch. Special highlights on the night included an astute short free from Ryan Curran to set up Ben McCaughey for a good point and hurling "purist" James Cormican's foot pass to one of his team mates; on an earlier occasion James was quoted as saying that you should never use your boot playing hurling! Another pleasing aspect was Conal Mulholland scoring a fine goal, which was contrary to his belief that he is not a goal-scoring forward.
Specific mention must also be made of U14's Lorcan McMullan, Ronan McKegney and Sean McGuigan who were all promoted to the U16 squad for the night. All three lads showed up very well when playing for Kilclief/Bredagh with Lorcan producing the score of the night with an outstanding overhead pull to the net for the Kilclief lads!
U16 coach Lorenzo McMullan, reflecting on the game commented "the lads were disappointed that the league game didn't go ahead, but thanks to the Kilclief management we were able to arrange an impromptu friendly, which was a useful exercise for all of the lads involved, Bredagh and Kilclief alike. The score line on the night was irrelevant, this was more about promoting hurling in both clubs and we were happy to do our part to ensure that all of the young lads who turned up for a game of hurling got one. From a Bredagh perspective the U16 squad continues to develop and an excellent team ethic was displayed by all of the lads, including those who played as guests for Kilclief on the night. There are no prima-donnas in this squad, just lads who are very dedicated to the game of hurling. That said, they are a very talented group of players and the U16 management team has high hopes that they will go on to become outstanding senior players for Bredagh in the next few years."
Bredagh Squad: Kealin Devlin, Jordan O'Dowd, Ciaran McFarland, Michael Doran, Eoghan Curran, Ciaran Fitzpatrick, Damhan Farmer, Ryan Curran, Emmet Dougan, Ciaran Kelly, Niall Irwin, James Cormican, Jack Hollywood, Ben McCaughey, Lorcan McMullan, Sean McGuigan, Ronan McKegney.
u16 league: Carryduff 0-05 6-09 Bredagh
Bredagh's U16 hurlers travelled to Carryduff on Sunday with barely 15 players and came away with a resounding 6-09 to 0-05 victory. This was a great team performance from the ever-reliable Jack Hollywood in goals to dynamic corner forward Ben McCaughey who contributed 1 goal and 1 point to Bredagh's total. However, special mention has to be made of two players who are making great strides this year, Michael Doran in defense and James Cormican at full forward. Michael was tenacious in the tackle and formed an impenetrable last line of defense with full-back Conrad Quinn and the ever-improving Ciaran McFarland. The half back line was equally strong with Ciaran Fitzpatrick, Eoghan Curran and Conal Mulholland constantly repelling Carryduff's attacks with their excellent defensive play. At midfield Damhan Farmer and Danny Robinson demonstrated why they already playing minor hurling for Bredagh and the watching minor manager, Liam Quinn, was surely delighted with their strong performances.
Whilst James Cormican was outstanding at full forward, contributing 4 goals to the Bredagh total and linking up impressively with the tiny-terrors, Ben McCaughey and Naill Irwin, Ryan Curran continues to develop into a key player for the team and forms a very effective half-forward line along with Emmet Dougan and Ciara n Kelly, two players with excellent technique who pose a constant scoring threat.
Second half
By half time Bredagh had built up a commanding 5-4 to 0-3 lead thanks to a hat-trick from James Cormican as well as goals from Ben McCaughey and Danny Robinson. Carryduff came out with fire in their bellies at the start of the second half and it looked as though they were going to make inroads into the Bredagh lead until "The Bomber" Cormican struck again with another well taken goal. Further scores from Eoghan Curran, Ryan Curran Emmett Dougan and Ciara n Kelly ensured that Bredagh ran out comfortable winners on a margin of 6-9 to 0-5
Reflecting on what was an excellent team performance lead coach Eugene Irwin commented; "The most pleasing aspect of our performance on Sunday was the way all of the lads translated the skills we've been practicing in training into the match situation. We've been focusing a lot on tackling in our pre-season work and it was great to see the way the Bredagh boys continually dispossessed their Carryduff opponents using the range of tackles we've been teaching them in training. It truly does your heart good to see the lads improve and develop as a result of the work they put in with the U16 coaching team. The highlight of the game for me was a high catch by Ben McCaughey. It was the best catch I have ever seen in a hurling match.”
Fellow coach Tony Dougan added; "The main objective now is for the lads to continue to develop their individual skills and how they perform as a team. The only way to do this is by continuous practice and regular attendance at training sessions. That said, there is great potential in this squad and I've no doubt that a lot of this team will be playing senior hurling for Bredagh in the not too distant future. At the end of the day that's what all the juvenile coaches are working towards and the Bredagh club will prosper in the longer term if we continue to produce good players, such as the lads which make up this U16 team. They really are a pleasure to work with!"
Bredagh Squad: Jack Hollywood, Ciaran McFarland, Conrad Quinn, Michael Doran, Conal Mulholland, Eoghan Curran, Ciara n Fitzpatrick, Damhan Farmer, Danny Robinson, Ryan Curran, Emmet Dougan, Ciaran Kelly, Niall Irwin, James Cormican, Ben McCaughey.
Qualifying league fixtures 2008
U16 Series 1: Saturday 1 March 2.30pm
Group B
Carryduff v. Ballela
Ballyvarley v. Kilclief
Bredagh BYE
U16 Series 2:
Saturday 8 March 2.30pm
Group B
Ballela v. Kilclief
Sunday 9 March 12 noon
Group A
Warrenpoint v. O Rahillys
Clonduff v. Shamrocks
Group B
Carryduff v. Bredagh
Ballyvarley BYE
U16 Series 3: Sunday 30 March 12 noon
Group A
Warrenpoint v. Clonduff
O Rahillys v. Shamrocks
Group B
Bredagh v. Ballela
Ballyvarley v. Carryduff
Kilclief BYE
U16 Series 4: Friday 4 April: 6.30pm
Group B
Kilclief v. Bredagh
Ballela v. Ballyvarley
Carryduff BYE
U16 Series 5 Friday 11 April: 6.30p.m.
Group A
Clonduff v. O Rahillys
Shamrocks v. Warrenpoint
Group B
Bredagh v. Ballyvarley
Kilclief v. Carryduff
Ballela BYE
U16 Playoffs: Monday 28 April 7.30p.m.
Winner Grp A v. Runner-Up Grp B
Winner Grp B v. Runner-Up Grp A
Two winning teams qualify for U 16 Division 1 League and semi final draw of U16 B Championship.
Remaining teams go to U 16 Division 2 League
U16 B Championship winners!
Team captain Paddy Woods with the Cup.
The victorious Bredagh u16 hurlers.
Celebrations at the final whistle.
Man of the match Jack Hollywood and Niall Irwin.
U16 B Championship Final: Bredagh 4-08 3-10 Liatroim
Bredagh U16 hurlers retained their Championship title when they defeated Liatriom in a real thriller of a game at Kilclief on Saturday. After their semi final exploits last week against Warrenpoint, Bredagh again had the large crowd on tender hooks right up to the final whistle, taking the title by the minimum margin. There was huge disappointment for the Liatriom boys who had contributed so much to what was a thoroughly entertaining game played at true Championship pace and with an excellent standard of hurling throughout.
Bredagh had the assistance of the strong breeze in the first half but Liatriom were quickest out of the blocks and raced into an early lead scoring a point and then a goal without reply. The signs were ominous for the Belfast boys but a Michael Guerin pointed free settled the early nerves and then Donal Hughes went on a 10 minute scoring spree during which he helped himself to 2-1 and the game really came to life. Donals first goal was from a crisp ground stroke from 14 metres out and the second from a tight angle after a goalmouth scramble. Both teams had further points as the half developed into an exciting end to end game with Bredagh's scores coming from 2 more Michael Guerin frees and one from play by Ciaran Fitzpatrick before he went off injured. Liatriom then struck a second goal themselves leaving Bredagh needing scores with half time approaching and the prospect of facing a strong breeze in the second half. Inside forwards Ciaran Kelly and Ryan Curran duly obliged; Ciaran with a clever point over his left shoulder and Ryan blasting to the roof of the Liatriom net from 20 meters to leave 5 between the sides at the interval; Bredagh 3-6 Liatriom 2-4.
Second half
With the wind on their backs Liatriom started the second half in determined mood, chipping away at Bredagh's lead with a succession points from frees and open play. The Bredagh defence led by centre half Donal McKegney fought brilliantly to stem the tide and Michael Guerin kept Bredagh's noses in front with a couple more pointed frees. Then the goal drama; first Liatriom after having been denied on 2 occassions by keeper Jack Hollywood finally found the net to go a point ahead. Bredagh though showed great character and came stormed back, bombarding the Liatriom defence. Michael Magee who played the game with a broken finger seen his rasping ground shot glance off the wrong side of the post and wide. Further pressure saw the ball fall to young Danny Robinson on the edge of the box and he coolly hammered home to the delight of the large Bredagh crowd. 2 points ahead entering the dying minutes meant a nail biting finish. Then more drama as Liatriom's big full forward took possession, broke loose and bore down on the Bredagh goals with only the keeper to beat. However Jack, small in stature but big in courage launched himself at the oncoming Dixon, blocking both stick and ball and injuring himself in the process but saved what looked like a certain goal. Liatriom soon after pointed a free and with 1 beween the sides they came looking for a winner but found thier way to goal blocked by some excellent defending from the Bredagh full back line.
The final whistle was greated with scenes of joy by the Bredagh contingent and heartbreak for Liatriom who had come so close. Indeed Gerard McShane, Down Hurling Secretary in his presentation speech was full of admiration for the standard of hurling and commitment shown by both teams and stated "You boys out there today are the future of Down Hurling". He presented the Cup to a proud Captain, Paddy Woods who delivered an impressive acceptance speech in his native Gaelic tongue. The referee entered the Bredagh changing room after the match to pass on his congratulations and he nominated Jack Hollywood as his Man of The Match. Noone could argue as Jack did stand out in what was a magnificent team performance by all 19 who played and the win was just reward for their dedication to training particularly over the last few weeks in preparation for the Championship.
As this now completes the U16 hurling season coaches, Danny Hughes, Gerry Woods and Malachy Higgins would like thank their very special panel of players for the total commitment shown throughout the season. Also thanks to all the parents whos support and help during the year was invaluable.
Panel and scorers: Jack Hollywood, Owen Curran, Paddy Woods, Conall Mulholland, Daniel Higgins, Donal McKegney, Matthew Mullan, Michael Guerin 0-5 (all frees) Michael Magee, Damhan Farmer, Donal Hughes 2-1, Danny Robinson 1-0, Ryan Curran 1-0, Ciaran Kelly 0-1 and Ciaran Fitzpatrick 0-1 Subs: Ben McCaughey, Niall Irwin, Caolan Devlin, Pearce Leitch, James Cormican and Conrad Quinn
Photographs from the championship win in Warrenpoint
The Bredagh team before the championship semi final with Warrenpoint.
u16 Championship semi final: Warrenpoint 4-07 4-08 Bredagh
With one minute of normal time left and trailing by 5 points it looked as though Bredagh U16 hurlers would relinguish their title to a strong Warrenpoint side; but up stepped Caolan Devlin and Donal Hughes to bury 2 stunning goals and snatch a hard earned and well deserved victory. Warrenpoint were left shell shocked by Bredagh's late scoring spree particularly since they had led right up to Donals injury time goal and early in the second half they led by 10 points.
Bredagh were always playing catch up in this game after conceding two early goals both from frees but they stuck to the task and matched their opponents in all departments. A couple of Michael Guerin pointed frees got Bredagh off the mark and midway through the half Ciaran Fitzpatrick, from the edge of the square pulled first time sending the ball to the roof of the net. Donal Hughes and Michael Guerin struck points apiece from play but the Point scored another goal just before half time to leave 2 goals between them at the interval 3-4 to 1-4.
Second half
At the start of the second half Warrenpoint's, Meatsy Cunningham lobbed over a free and crashed another to the top corner of the Bredagh net. The prospects of victory looked grim at this stage but the Belfast boys were not about to give up without a fight and began to chip away at the home sides lead. Michael Guerin sent over a free followed by a well taken gaoal from Danny Robinson who kicked the ball to the net after great support play from a number of the forwards. Cunningham had another 2 pointed frees for Warrenpoint but Bredagh's full forward Ciaran Kelly responded with 2 excellent points from play. As time ran out for the holders Michael Guerin was again on target from a free and then we had the drama of the 2 late goals. Caolan from a piledriver out on the left and then Donal took possession on the 21 rounded his marker soloed in and let rip from close range giving the keeper no chance. All Warrenpoint's scores bar 1 point came from frees and this was due to a superb display from keeper Jack Holywoodand and his defence led by Paddy Woods at full back. Conall Mulholland showed great skill in the left corner and Owen Curran showed up well on the right. The half back line of Danny Higgins, Donal McKegney and Matthew Mullan battled for the full hour. Michael Guerin and Michael Magee again had excellent games at midfield and up front Donal Hughes was in the thick of it at centre half and got great support from Danny Robinson and Damhan Farmer on the wings. Ciaran Kelly contolled the full forward line with good help from Ciaran Fitzpatrick and Ryan Curran. Niall Irwin was a super sub involved in many of Bredagh's second half scoring oppurtunities.
Over all a fantastic win against a fancied Warrenpoint team who had beaten us by 12 points in the league and who also beat Ballycran. Liatriom now lie in wait in the final a repeat of the U14 final of 2 years ago won by Bredagh.
Team and scorers Jack Holywood, Owen Curran, Paddy Woods, Conall Mulholland, Danny Higgins, Donal McKegney, Matthew Mullan, Michael Guerin 0-5 (4 frees), Michael Magee, Damhan Farmer, Donal Hughes 1-1, Danny Robinson 1-0, Ryan Curran, Ciaran Kelly 0-2 and Ciaran Fitzpatrick 1-0 Subs; Niall Irwin, Caolan Devlin 1-0 James Cormican and Conrad Quinn
u16 HC: Carryduff 0-0 Bredagh 10-14
Bredagh breezed into the semi final of the Under 16 hurling Championship with this overwhelming victory over a weak Carryduff team on Saturday evening. It did take Bredagh 5 minutes to settle but once Michael Guerin opened the scoring with a pointed free the scores began to flow and midway through the first half the game was over as a contest. Bredagh were solid in all departments and had many stars. Michael Guerin took the Man of the Match award with a superb display at midfield scoring a personal tally of 1-6. Donal Hughes was also on fire topscoring from centre forward with 2-5 all from play. Michael Magee covered every blade of the big Carryduff pitch and was rewarded for his endeavours in the second half when he swept in from the left for a stunning goal. Ben McCaughey playing his first match in attack hammered in 2 great goals and Ryan Curran who only took up the game this year contributed 1-1 and looks to have a bright future. In defence the half back line of Daniel Higgins, Donal McKegney and Matthew Mullan were outstanding and rarely was this line breached by the Carryduff men. Anything that did get through was expertly dealt with by Paddy Woods and his corner men James Cormican and Conall Mulholland. In fact the defence were in such a mean mood that keeper Jack Holywood was totally redundant not having a single shot for the entire game.
Second half
At half time leading 5-8 to 0-0 the full forward line were replaced by Danny Robinson, Niall Irwin and Caolan Devlin all from the U14s and just fresh from last weeks successfull trip to Mayfield (Cork). They piled on the misery for the Carryduff defence with Danny Robinson scoring 2 goals. The young Carryduff team must be given credit for sticking to the task right to the final whistle and no doubt they will be back stronger next season. For Bredagh its on to the semi final on Saturday 6th October where they meet Liatriom , again away from home. This will be a much sterner test and the boys must reproduce this form if they are to progess to the final.
Team and scorers:
Jack Holywood, James Cormican, Paddy Woods, Conall Mulholland, Daniel Higgins 0-1, Donal McKegney, Matthew Mullan, Michael Guerin 1-6 (2frees) , Michael Magee 1-0, Ciaran Fitzpatrick, Donal Hughes 2-5, Damhan Farmer 1-0, Ben McCaughey 2-0, Ciaran Kelly 0-1 and Ryan Curran 1-1 Subs Danny Robinson 2-0, Caolan Devlin, Niall Irwin and Conrad Quinn
u16 HC: Carryduff 0-0 Bredagh 10-14
Bredagh breezed into the semi final of the Under 16 hurling Championship with this overwhelming victory over a weak Carryduff team on Saturday evening. It did take Bredagh 5 minutes to settle but once Michael Guerin opened the scoring with a pointed free the scores began to flow and midway through the first half the game was over as a contest. Bredagh were solid in all departments and had many stars. Michael Guerin took the Man of the Match award with a superb display at midfield scoring a personal tally of 1-6. Donal Hughes was also on fire topscoring from centre forward with 2-5 all from play. Michael Magee covered every blade of the big Carryduff pitch and was rewarded for his endeavours in the second half when he swept in from the left for a stunning goal. Ben McCaughey playing his first match in attack hammered in 2 great goals and Ryan Curran who only took up the game this year contributed 1-1 and looks to have a bright future. In defence the half back line of Daniel Higgins, Donal McKegney and Matthew Mullan were outstanding and rarely was this line breached by the Carryduff men. Anything that did get through was expertly dealt with by Paddy Woods and his corner men James Cormican and Conall Mulholland. In fact the defence were in such a mean mood that keeper Jack Holywood was totally redundant not having a single shot for the entire game.
Second half
At half time leading 5-8 to 0-0 the full forward line were replaced by Danny Robinson, Niall Irwin and Caolan Devlin all from the U14s and just fresh from last weeks successfull trip to Mayfield (Cork). They piled on the misery for the Carryduff defence with Danny Robinson scoring 2 goals. The young Carryduff team must be given credit for sticking to the task right to the final whistle and no doubt they will be back stronger next season. For Bredagh its on to the semi final on Saturday 6th October where they meet Liatriom , again away from home. This will be a much sterner test and the boys must reproduce this form if they are to progess to the final.
Team and scorers:
Jack Holywood, James Cormican, Paddy Woods, Conall Mulholland, Daniel Higgins 0-1, Donal McKegney, Matthew Mullan, Michael Guerin 1-6 (2frees) , Michael Magee 1-0, Ciaran Fitzpatrick, Donal Hughes 2-5, Damhan Farmer 1-0, Ben McCaughey 2-0, Ciaran Kelly 0-1 and Ryan Curran 1-1 Subs Danny Robinson 2-0, Caolan Devlin, Niall Irwin and Conrad Quinn
u16 League: Warrenpoint 4-12 2-06 Bredagh
This match could have been postponed as we had 7 players missing due to holidays but in the end it was decided to field and have a look at this headline grabbing Warrenpoint team who recently beat Ballycran on a scor-line of 6-11 to 6-7. The Point were at full strength and did impress being very strong up the middle. Their star player Michael Cunningham finished with a personal tally of 1-7 and the Teague brothers Matthew at No.11 and Chris at No.6 also stood out. But Bredagh put up a battling performance and with a full squad to pick from it should be a lot closer when the two next meet which will be in the semi final of the Championship if both get through their first round matches. Bredagh's full forward line on the night was made up of U14s and what a game they had contributing 2-2 between them. Caolan Devlin scored 2 early points from play and also set Conrad Quinn up for a first half goal while Jack Holywood lashed in a fine goal in the second period. Donal Hughes and Ciaran Kelly also hit points from play in the first half to leave only 3 between them at Half time (1-7 to 1-4). Warrenpoint's superior strength and fitness allowed them to pull away in the second half but Bredagh played some fine hurling too and were rewarded with that Jack Holywood strike and 2 further Donal Hughes points, both whipped over from ground strokes. Paddy Woods, Donal McKegney, Ben McCaughey and Pearce Leitch were best in defence, Donal Hughes and Michael Magee were in fine form at Midfield and in the half forward line Ciaran Kelly and Damhan Farmer worked hard to feed those young guns in the full forward line. A lot of hard work is now required in the run up to the Championship if Bredagh are to retain their title.
Team
Ciaran Fitzpatrick, James Cormican, Paddy woods, Ben McCaughey, Pearce Leitch, Donal McKegney, Ryan Curran, Donal Hughes 0-3, Michael Magee, Ciaran Kelly 0-1, Conall Mulholland, Damhan Farmer, Conrad Quinn 1-0, Caolan Devlin 0-2 and Jack Holywood 1-0
U16 A League: Bredagh 1-04 1-16 Ballycran
Yes Bredagh were well beaten by Ballycran in this league match at Cherryvale on Thursday night but for much of the game they competed on an equal basis with the Ards men and in Paddy Woods Bredagh had the star player on show. He was a commanding figure in the full back line with his high fielding, ball winning and long striking. Anything that did get past Paddy was expertly dealt with by Jack Holwood who had another fine game in goals only conceding once over the hour. Pearce Leitch kept things tight in the corner back position and the half back line of Danny Higgins, Diddles and Matthew Mullan put up a great fight against a very potent Ballycran Half forward line.
Michael Guerin had one of his best games of the season at midfield and scored 2 long range frees one in each half. His partner Donal Hughes had a great individual tussel with Ballycran star Kevin McGourty. Donal jinxed his way through for 2 classy points from play. Up front Donal McKegney had a bruising encounter with another Ballycran star Michael Hughes and Donal impressed the watching County selector Stephen McAree to such an extent that after the match he received a call up for the match with Derry on 14th July. Conall Mulholland Ben Horner and Damhan Farmer all battled hard in attack but the Ballycran defence were in mean mood. Bredagh only trailed by 4 points at the break 0-2 to 0-6.
Second half
When Ballycran scored their goal 10 minutes into the second half it looked like the flood gates might open but Bredagh stormed back with a goal of their own blasted home from close range by Donal McKegney after Michael Guerins penalty was saved. Conor Dorrian and Niel Torney fired over a flurry of late points for Ballycran to take the game out of the reach of the Bredagh lads.This was nevertheless a good performance from the home team and invaluable experience is being gained playing at this level. With a number of this team now regularly attending Down development squads at U15 and U16 further improvement can only be expected.
Team
Jack Holywood, Ben McCaughey, Paddy woods, Pearce Leitch, Daniel Higgins, Michael Magee, Matthew Mullan, Michael Guerin 0-2, Donal Hughes 0-2, Ben Horner, Donal McKegney 1-0, Conall Mulholland, Ciaran Fitzpatrick, Damhan Farmer, Ciaran Kelly. Subs; James Cormicam, Niall Irwin, Jordan O'Dowd, Ciaran McFarland, Conrad Quinn
U16 Hurling - Down 5-09 1-17 Antrim
Down U16 hurlers opened their campaign on Saturday with a well deserved win over a strong Antrim team in Ballycran. Two Bredagh lads started, Paddy Woods at full back and Donal Hughes at left half back, with Michael Guerin on the bench. Well done lads!!
Full report here:
http://www.downgaa.net/downgaa/general/news/2007/june/june17th1.htm
u16 HL Portaferry 5-12 Bredagh 1-3
Bredagh were comprehensively beaten against a physically strong Portaferry team on Friday night. The home side adapted best to the atrocious weather condition running up a big score in the first half when they had the advantage of the strong wind and driving rain. Midway through the half and trailing 2-4 to 0-0 Bredagh hit a purple patch and for a 10 minute period really took the game to the opposition. Portaferry's keeper made a number of fine saves before he eventually deflected a goal bound shot from Conall Mulholland over the bar for Bredagh's opening score. Michael Guerin followed up with a pointed free and 2 minutes later Ciaran Fitzpatrick rounded his marker and clipped over a fine point. At this stage it looked as though Bredagh would make a game of it but the Ports had other ideas and they raised their game and scored 1-4 without reply to finish the half on a scoreline of 4-8 to 0-3.
Half time: Portaferry 4-08 0-03 Bredagh
The soggy conditions continued in the second half and any hopes of a Bredagh comeback were dashed when our inspirational centre half back Donal McKegney was sent to the line for a second yellow card offence. Indeed Bredagh's only score of the wind assisted second half came from young substitute Niall Irwin who stole in behind the Portaferry defence to double on a long delivery from midfield and send the ball to the top corner of the net. Late in the game Donal Hughes was unlucky to see his shot shave the wrong side of the post after a great solo run through the middle of the Portaferry defence. This was not a night for picking out stars as all 18 who played gave their all in very difficult conditions but one player who does merit special mention is goalkeeper Jack Holywood who despite being cold and wet pulled off a number of superb saves. There is now an exam break in the league and on the resumption in June we have our first non Ards opposition, Warrenpoint and will be hopeful of picking up our first points. There will be no break in training!
Team & scorers
Jack Holywood, Ben McCaughey, Paddy Woods, Pearce Leitch, Daniel Higgins, Donal McKegney, Matthew Mullan, Donal Hughes, Michael Magee, Damhan Farmer, Michael Guerin 0-1, Conor McCloskey, Ciaran Kelly, Conall Mulholland 0-1, Ciaran Fitzpatrick 0-1. Subs James Cormican, Niall Irwin 1-0 and Danny Robinson
U16 Championship draw
Bredagh will play the winner of Carryduff/Shamrocks in the U-16 championship.
Full draw
Under 16 Championship (to be played in August)
Prelim: Carryduff v. Shamrocks
Round 1:
A.St. Patricks v. Clonduff
B.Bredagh v. Prelim winners
C.Liatroim v. Castlewellan
D.Warrenpoint v. Kilclief
Semi finals: C v.A; D v.B
Shield draw (for early round losers) to be made at a later date.
Bredagh 0-2 Ballygalget 5-12
Despite being on the end of a heavy defeat by Ballygalget at Cherryvale on Friday evening Bredagh actually performed well and received deserved praise from the Ballygalget mentors after the game. Bredagh 's problem in this game was their inabilty to take scores at crucial times in the game. With 20 minutes gone and with no wind advantage for either team the score was 0-3 to 0-1 for the visitors, the Bredagh point coming from Donal Hughes after a fine run and strike. Bredagh should have been ahead as no less than three goaling chances were squandered although that said Ballygalget had a very strong defensive unit. The Ards men, probably the best U16 team in the county at present were rattled at this stage and began to increase the pressure on the Bredagh rearguard and eventually they did manage to land some well taken scores at the end of the half to go in at half time ahead 0-1 to 3-4. Ballygalget increased the intensity of the game in the second half but the Bredagh boys responded and there were some exciting passages of play. There was little between the teams in terms of possession but Ballygalget had that extra sharpness up front and took some lovely scores despite the best efforts of Jack Holywood in goals and defenders Paddy Woods, Damhan Farmer and in particular Michael Diddles Magee who put on a Man of the Match performance. Fearless in the tackle he cleared his lines time and again and covered every inch of the big Cherryvale pitch and this while suffering from a stomach bug. At midfied Donal Hughes showed some nice touches and scored both Bredaghs points from play. Michael Guerin also played well in this sector. Of the forwards Donal McKegney had a geat tussle with one of best U16 centre halfs in Ulster, Ballygalget's Ben Toner. Niall Wright and Conor McCloskey worked hard on the wings and at full forward Conall Mulholland won loads of possession and was unfortunate with a number of goal attempts. Although this was a heavy defeat the team were not despondent afterwards. They know they competed well and if they continue to put the effort in on the training ground they can take points off Ards opposition this season. Also the experience of playing against teams of this calibre will stand them in good stead for the Championship later in the year
Team
Jack Holywood, Damhan Farmer, Paddy Woods, Ben McCaughey, Daniel Higgins, Michael Magee, Matthew Mullan, Donal Hughes 0-2, Michael Guerin, Niall Wright, Donal McKegney, Conor McCloskey, Ciaran Kelly, Conall Mulholland, Ciaran Fitzpatrick, Subs: Ben Horner, James Cormican and Conrad Quinn
Ballycran 4-9 Bredagh 0-2
This was always going to be a difficult league opener against a strong well prepared Ballycran team but having to field without 5 first team regulars made it mission impossible. Bredagh however, as usual showed all their fighting qualities and matched their opponents in many key positions. The game was played in warm sunshine at the magnificently presented McKenna Park and it was Ballycran who raced into an early lead thanks mainly to the heroics of their No.11 Conor Dorrian who knocked over 5 points from play. Michael Magee was moved onto Dorrian and what a job he did as the Ballycran ace failed to score again from play for the remainder of the game. Paddy Woods moved to full back where his ball winning skills and long deliveries were outstanding. Donal Hughes' catching striking and general play in midfield was as good as anything on show from the opposition. He had excellent support in this area from Donal McKegney and Michael Guerin. Michael was Bredagh's only scorer on the day with a well taken point from play in the first half and a 30 meter free in the second. Daniel Higgins had a great game in defence and also when moved to the half forward line where he linked up well with the impressive Damhan Farmer at full forward. Bredagh trailed 1-7 to 0-1 at half time and although the second half performance was better the leaking of 3 goals in this period meant Ballycran ran out comfortable winners on the scoreboard. Thanks to the U14s Jack Holywood, Ciaran McFarland and Conrad Quinn who came in at late notice and played well against such tough opposition. This result highlights the need to get a full panel training and available for games and that being the case we can no doubt compete with the Ards teams in this league.
Team
Jack Holywood, Ben McCaughey, Daniel Higgins, Conrad Quinn, Pearce Leitch, Paddy Woods, James Cormican, Donal Hughes, Donal McKegney, Michael Magee, Michael Guerin 0-2, Ciaran Kelly, Ciaran McFarland, Damhan Farmer and Ciaran Fitzpatrick
Under 16 challenge game
Larne 3-5 Bredagh 2-4
This was a good first run out of the new season for the U16 hurlers. A number of players were missing, just 14 full under 16s travelled and Cormac Hughes deputised in goals. The Larne squad have been in training sinse the start of the year and in the early stages looked that little bit sharper but once the Bredagh boys got into their stride they were certainly a match for thier Antrim opponents. The game was spoilt to some extent by the gale force wind blowing directly across the pitch which made scoring difficult. Larne took an early lead notching up 1-2 in the first 10 minutes but once Daniel Higgins and Paddy Woods settled in their central defensive roles and with Donal Hughes dominating at midfield, Bredagh came more into the game. Ben Horner struck first firing in a goal with a crisp ground stroke. Donal Hughes then raced through and clippped over a point. Larne came back with 3 points of their own before Michael Guerin sent over a tricky free to leave the half time score !-5 to 1-2 in favour of the home side. It was all Bredagh for much of the second half. Paddy Woods at centre half was superb and had great assistance from Michael Magee and Damhan Farmer. Donal Hughes continued to torment the Larne defence with mazy runs from midfield. Indeed he was Bredagh's only scorer in the second half with 1-2 from play to take man of the match. Michael Guerin and Ben Horner stood out in the forward division. With Bredagh ahead 1-5 to 2-4 with 10 minutes left Cormac Hughes in goals picked up a leg injury and had to go off replaced by Daniel Higgins. Down to 14 men, 2 late goals were conceded to give Larne a rather flattering 4 points victory. This was a good exercise to start the season but it highlighted the need to get the full panel available. Training continues and further challenge matches are planned ahead of the League.
Team
Cormac Hughes, James Cormican, Daniel Higgins, Peearce Leitch, Damhan Farmer, Paddy woods, Michael Magee, Donal McKegney, Donal Hughes 1-3, Ben Horner 1-0, Michael Guerin 0-1, Conall Mulholland, Keelan Devlin, Ciaran Kelly and Ciaran Fitzpatrick
Under 16 challenge game
Larne 3-5 Bredagh 2-4
This was a good first run out of the new season for the U16 hurlers. A number of players were missing, just 14 full under 16s travelled and Cormac Hughes deputised in goals. The Larne squad have been in training sinse the start of the year and in the early stages looked that little bit sharper but once the Bredagh boys got into their stride they were certainly a match for thier Antrim opponents. The game was spoilt to some extent by the gale force wind blowing directly across the pitch which made scoring difficult. Larne took an early lead notching up 1-2 in the first 10 minutes but once Daniel Higgins and Paddy Woods settled in their central defensive roles and with Donal Hughes dominating at midfield, Bredagh came more into the game. Ben Horner struck first firing in a goal with a crisp ground stroke. Donal Hughes then raced through and clippped over a point. Larne came back with 3 points of their own before Michael Guerin sent over a tricky free to leave the half time score !-5 to 1-2 in favour of the home side. It was all Bredagh for much of the second half. Paddy Woods at centre half was superb and had great assistance from Michael Magee and Damhan Farmer. Donal Hughes continued to torment the Larne defence with mazy runs from midfield. Indeed he was Bredagh's only scorer in the second half with 1-2 from play to take man of the match. Michael Guerin and Ben Horner stood out in the forward division. With Bredagh ahead 1-5 to 2-4 with 10 minutes left Cormac Hughes in goals picked up a leg injury and had to go off replaced by Daniel Higgins. Down to 14 men, 2 late goals were conceded to give Larne a rather flattering 4 points victory. This was a good exercise to start the season but it highlighted the need to get the full panel available. Training continues and further challenge matches are planned ahead of the League.
Team
Cormac Hughes, James Cormican, Daniel Higgins, Peearce Leitch, Damhan Farmer, Paddy woods, Michael Magee, Donal McKegney, Donal Hughes 1-3, Ben Horner 1-0, Michael Guerin 0-1, Conall Mulholland, Keelan Devlin, Ciaran Kelly and Ciaran Fitzpatrick
Kilclief 0-6 Bredagh 4-16.
B Championship Semi-final, Saturday October 14th - Bredagh put on a magnificent display of hurling in perfect conditions at Kilclief to send them into the Championship final for the first time at this age level. This had been viewed as a tricky assignment, particularly as Kilclief had disposed of a fancied Liatriom team in the last round. But the boys from the Loughshore simply had no answer to Bredagh's superior hurling skill. Bredagh had heroes all over the field. Paddy Woods and Daniel Higgins dominated the full back line, both showing great ability to solo out of defence and send long deliveries to the forwards. Michael Mullan at centre half had a bruising encounter with his opposite number but Michael concentrated on playing hurling and was dominant. The half back line was strong, Cormac White dependable as ever and Michael Magee giving an exhibition of high-fielding and tenacious tackling. The midfield of Matthew McAfee and Cormac Hughes was the engine room of the team. Matthew gave a powerhouse performance to compliment Cormac's silky skills and superb long range free taking. Donal Hughes at centre half forward was involved in much of Bredagh's excellent attacking play. This was one of his best performances of the season and he top-scored with 2-2. At full forward, Conall Doherty for much of the game left the big Kilclief full back chasing shadows as he won loads of possession and clipped over four fine points. Another Bredagh forward to catch the eye was Christian Hunter. Just back after injury he always looked dangerous, he hit 1-1 and was unlucky not to have scored more. This was a fine team performance by all 18 who played and was probably one of the most complete displays of the season. Bredagh led by 2-8 to 0-2 at half time and scored the same in the second half. Kilclief played their best hurling in the first five minutes and took the lead with a point from play. This would prove to be their only score from open play over the 60 minutes.
Stunning Goal!
Once Bredagh got their first goal midway through the first half they were on their way to victory.. and what a goal it was from Matthew McAfee. He soloed through from midfield and as he got into range at 30 meters from the Kilclief goals, everyone in the ground expected him to pop the ball over the bar. But he unleashed a bullet to the roof of the net to set the scene for more terrific scores to follow. In the other half of the draw Carryduff are in the semi-final and they await their opponents from a delayed quarter-final between Clonduff and Ballyvarley. It will therefore be into November before the final is played and training will continue as usual. The team have been fully committed to training in the build up to this Championship and are reaping the rewards on the field of play.
Team & Scorers: Emmett Costello, Daniel Higgins, Paddy Woods, Pearse Leitch, Cormac White, Michael Mullan, Michael Magee, Matthew McAfee 1-1, Cormac Hughes 0-7 (4 frees. 1 '65), Michael Guerin 0-1 (free), Donal Hughes 2-2, Niall Wright, Christian Hunter 1-1 Conall Doherty 0-4, Ciaran Kelly. Subs: Conor McCloskey, Conall Mulholland and Damhan Farmer.
Shinty
Ulster U-16 Shinty trials - two Bredagh players, Michael Mullan and Conal Doherty, attended a coaching session and trial at the Mid-Ulster Sports Arena in Cookstown on Saturday September 9th ahead of the representative game against Scotland.
B Championship
The U-16s have been drawn away to Newry Shamrocks in the Quarter-finals of the B Championship (for non-Ards teams), provisionally on September 30th at 5.00pm.
Academy Panel
Down Academy U-16 Panel: Ballela - Paddy McCambridge, Niall Burns; Ballyvarley - James McDermott, Paul O’Neill; Bredagh - Conal Doherty, Cormac Hughes, Cormac White, Donal Hughes, Matthew McAfee, Patrick Woods, Micheal Mullan, Donal McKegney; Carryduff - Conor Beattie, Declan Docherty, Niall Rodgers, Conor Earley; Clonduff - Paul Bloomfield, Shane Murray, Liam McParland, Conor Tumilty, Jamie Lynch, Arthur McConville; Mourne - Paddy Gartland, Darragh Doyle, Connor O’Hare; Warrenpoint - Chris Teague, Matthew Teague, Mark Rafferty, Micheal Cunningham, Micheal Fagan; Newry Shamrocks - Paul Sheehan.
Bredagh 1-4 Liatriom 1-5
League Division One, Friday August 18th - How times have changed. There were scenes of jubilation by Liatriom players and mentors at the final whistle of this game at Cherryvale. They had won by a point and with little at stake in terms of League positions, it showed what it now means to Liatriom to defeat Bredagh at under-age hurling. Bredagh lost the game in the first half, hitting at least ten wides, mostly from scoreable positions. Liatriom on the other hand were more economical with their limited possession. Donal Hughes opened the scoring when his driven shot from 30 yards dipped under the crossbar and into the roof of the net. Try as they might, Bredagh could not add to this score while Liatriom hit on the break and had knocked over 0-5 to leave two between them when the referee blew ten minutes early for half time. He blamed the fading light and wet conditions but agreed to play longer in the second half. Bredagh got the second half off to a good start with a well-taken Ciaran Kelly point from play. Liatriom then hit the sucker punch when a long speculative ball into the Bredagh box skidded through the flooded goalmouth deceiving Emmett Costello and into the net. Four points down Bredagh finally took the game to Liatriom and eventually found their range with three fine points without reply from Donal Hughes, Donal McKegney and Cormac Hughes. One point behind and with relentless pressure on the Liatriom defence, Bredagh looked set for victory but again the referee called a halt to proceedings with ten minutes remaining despite perfect light. It was disappointing but the result will keep the boys on their toes with the Championship just around the corner. Best for Bredagh were Cormac White, Michael Mullan, Matthew McAfee, Cormac Hughes, Donal Hughes and Donal McKegney. There were still six on the missing list and it is hoped to get a full squad back to training in the run up to the start of the Championship at the end of September.
Team & Scorers: Emmett Costello, Pearse Leitch, Cormac White, James Cormican, Daniel Higgins, Michael Mullan, Matthew Mullan, Cormac Hughes 0-1, Matthew McAfee, Donal McKegney 0-1, Donal Hughes 1-1, Conall Doherty, Damhan Farmer, Christian Hunter and Ciaran Kelly 0-1. Sub: Kaelan Devlin.
Ballycran 4-7 Bredagh 2-2
League, Friday August 11th - Bredagh against all the odds put up an inspirational display against League leaders Ballycran with the final score probably flattering the home team. Forced to field without six first team regulars, five under-14s who had just completed a match against the same opposition were drafted in to make up the numbers. The pre-match team talk was all about damage limitation but these young men had other ideas and by half time they looked as though they could pull off the shock of the season as Ballycran assisted by a strong wind were only seven points ahead. A powerhouse performance from midfielder Matthew McAfee earned him the Man of the Match award but there were magnificent performances all over the field. In goals, Emmett Costello made a number of excellent saves and received great cover from full back Cormac White. Michael Mullan at centre back battled hard in containing Ballycran's star player Donal Ennis, restricting him to a couple of scores. He had fine support from wing men Daniel Higgins and Michael Magee. Cormac Hughes at midfield and forwards Donal Hughes, Conall Doherty and Damhan Farmer made life difficult for the home defence. Emmett Dougan and Kaelan Devlin made their U-16 debuts and were not overawed by the occasion as they showed courage and skill in the corner forward positions. In the first half, despite the strong wind, Bredagh had their fair share of play and had numerous raids into the home defence. Conall Doherty latched onto a lovely through ball from Damhan Farmer to expertly find the corner of the Ballycran net. Cormac Hughes drove over a point from a 50 yard free and while Bredagh had other chances they couldn't add to the first half tally and went in at half time trailing 2-5 to 1-1. In the third quarter Bredagh really took the game to Ballycran and the pressure paid off when Matthew McAfee soloed through and unleashed an unstoppable shot from a tight angle for the goal of the game. The Ballycran defence gave little away. Donal Hughes was taken out as he ran through on goal and his brother Cormac pointed the resulting free. Niall Wright was unlucky with a great shot on the turn. Ballycran however finished strongly with 1-2 in the last few minutes to give them an 11-point victory. They knew they had been in a game and afterwards their were genuine tributes from the Ballycran mentors for the Bredagh performance. One wonders what might have been had we been at full strength!
Team & Scorers: Emmett Costello, Pearce Leitch, Cormac White, James Cormican, Daniel Higgins, Michael Mullan, Michael Magee, Cormac Hughes 0-2, Matthew McAfee 1-0, Niall Wright, Donal Hughes, Conall Doherty 1-0, Emmett Dougan, Damhan Farmer and Kaelan Devlin.
Bredagh 2-4 Ballygalget 6-13
League, Friday August 4th - yes the scoreline makes grim reading but it must be taken in context. This was Bredagh's first get together after a summer break of five weeks and indeed we were still missing four first-team regulars. Ballygalget on the other hand arrived at Cherryvale with a full squad that had clearly had no let-up in training. So then whilst the Bredagh boys may have sported the better sun tans, Ballygalget held all the aces in terms of fitness and more particularly hurling sharpness. The country boys were in devastating form with centre back Ben Toner in a class of his own and No 12 Doran giving an exhibition of point scoring from all angles and distances. Bredagh's cause was not helped by the loss of Paddy Woods (knee injury) midway through the first half. With the inspirational full back gone, Ballygalget stole in for three goals to leave the half time score Bredagh 0-2 Ballygalget 4-6. Bredagh's first half scores came from Michael Mullan and Cormac Hughes (free). In the second half, Paddy Woods reappeared in goals where he made a number of fine saves and Conall Doherty moved out to the forward line where his pace and skill were instrumental in Bredagh's mini revival. Doherty hit a point from play before Donal Hughes latched onto a parried save from the Ballygalget keeper to drive low to the net. Ballygalget replied with a couple of points and then Michael Mullan saw his sweetly struck sideline cut deflected to the net as Bredagh fought valiantly to restore pride. Cormac Hughes sent over a pointed free to complete Bredagh's scoring while Ballygalget finished strongly with a flurry of late scores. Despite being rusty their were a number of fine perfomances. Pearse Leitch and Matthew Mullan battled gamely in the full back line and half backs Michael Guerin, Cormac White and Diddles put up stern resistance. Matthew McAfee and Cormac Hughes broke even in a tough midfield battle and up front Donal Hughes, Michael Mullan and Conor McCloskey were the main dangermen. A special mention goes to Ciaran Kelly, Damhan Farmer and James Cormican who were drafted in from the U-14s and all played well against such strong opposition. This was a wake-up call ahead of the Championship which starts at the end of August and training has now resumed with that competition firmly in mind.
Team & Scorers: Conall Doherty 0-1, Pearse Leitch, Paddy Woods, Matthew Mullan, Michael Guerin, Cormac White, Michael Magee, Matthew McAfee, Cormac Hughes 0-2, Donal Hughes 1-0, Michael Mullan 1-1, Conor McCloskey, Damhan Farmer, Emmett Costello and Ciaran Kelly. Sub: James Cormican.
Liatriom 2-4 Bredagh 1-11
League, Friday June 23 - Bredagh took their first two points in the A Section with this fine win away to Liatriom. The foundation for victory was laid in the first half with an exhilerating display of passing and striking that saw them lead by seven points at the interval. Conor McCloskey, fresh from his exploits at the Feile in Cork, was on the end of much of Bredagh's excellent support play to pick off some sweetly struck scores. He finished the half with a personal tally of 1-4, all from play, his goal a daisycutter to the corner following a great crossfield pass from Conall Doherty. Conall was also creating havoc in the Liatriom defence during this period and clipped over two points from play himself. The remaining Bredagh score of the first half was a Cormac Hughes free, leaving the Belfast boys sitting pretty at half time on a scoreline of Liatriom 0-3 Bredagh 1-7. Liatriom's pride was dented as Bredagh had already beaten them on their own ground in the Prelinimary Round back in May. They came out in the second half all guns blazing and Bredagh struggled to cope with their physical style of play. They scored an early point which was followed by a goal to reduce the lead to three points. Two well-taken Michael Guerin frees gave Bredagh some breathing space before Liatriom struck for their second goal to leave just two between them. It was backs to the wall stuff but Bredagh defended valliantly, led by full back Michael Mullan, half backs Cormac white and Michael Magee, midfielders Cormac Hughes and Matthew McAfee, and centre forward Donal McKegney. Liatriom's cause was not helped when their midfielder saw red with ten minutes remaining after a rash challenge on Michael Mullan. Cormac Hughes sent over an inspirational point from play to settle the nerves and with time running out for the home team Christian Hunter got the insurance point when he burst through on goal to flash the ball over the bar. Bredagh had weathered the storm and took the points with a great team performance of style and panache in the first half and guts and determination in the second.
Team & Scorers: Paddy Woods, Matthew Mullan, Michael Mullan, Damhan Farmer, Daniel Higgins, Cormac White, Michael Magee, Cormac Hughes 0-2, Matthew McAfee, Donal Hughes, Donal McKegney, Michael Guerin 0-2, Conall Doherty 0-2, Christian Hunter 0-1 and Conor McCloskey 1-4. Sub: James Cormican (second half).
Two More Call-ups
Friday, June 16th - two more Bredagh players have been called into the Down U-16 squad. Donal McKegney and Michael Mullan bring Bredagh's contribution to a remarkable eight players on the county panel. The boys obviously impressed in a challenge game between Down Minor B and Down U-16s on Wednesday night at Ballela's new pitch. Paul Doole and Paddy Byrne played for the minors while Matthew McAfee, Michael Mullan, Cormac Hughes, Donal Hughes and Donal McKegney played for the U-16s.
Super Six!
Six Bredagh U-16s played on the Down team that took part in the Golden Cow Youth Games at the Dub playing pitches in Belfast. The lads played against Antrim, Armagh and Derry.
The super six were Dónal and Cormac Hughes, Cormac White and Conal Doherty...
.. committed Down man Patrick Woods...
.. and Matthew McAfee.
Ballygalget 1-10 Bredagh 0-3
League, Friday May 19th - despite losing by ten points Bredagh put in a terrific display. The home team were very strong but Bredagh matched them in terms of possession and skill for much of the game. It was really only in the last ten minutes of the game that Ballygalget pulled away for what was a comfortable win, on paper anyway! Bredagh fielded without regulars Cormac White and Emmett Costello (both injured) which had a disruptive effect on the team, particularly in attack. Conall Doherty moved to goals in place of Emmett and his pace and skill in the forward line was missed, but what a game he had between the sticks. He brought off a number of fine saves and one amazing stop when he dived full stretch to get his stick to a low piledriver. Bredagh played their best hurling in the first half and matched the Galget in most departments. The full back line of Daniel Higgins, Paddy Woods and Matthew Mullan was outstanding, denying the home side as they pressed for goals. Michael Mullan and Donal McKegney were strong in the half back line along with the hard working Michael Magee. At midfield Cormac Hughes and Matthew McAfee ensured a good supply of ball to the forwards. The forward sector in which Donal Hughes and Michael Guerin excelled got little change from a terrific Ballygalget rearguard. At half time Ballygalget led 0-4 to 0-1, Bredagh's point coming from a Cormac Hughes free. Matthew McAfee had lofted over a superb long range point in this half but unfortunately the Ballygalget umpire signalled wide and the ref accepted the decision. In the third quarter both sides traded points and there was never more than three or four between them. Cormac Hughes (free) and Conor McCloskey got the Bredagh points but despite the best efforts of the inside forwards they could not find the Ballygalget net. With the wind strength picking up in the final stages and favouring the home team they got the goal which left no way back for Bredagh. The full forward cut a ground stroke from wide on the right which lobbed over Doherty and into the far corner. Ballygalget tagged on another couple of late points to give the final score a rather flattering look. This was another fine performance against first-class opposition. We do have the players to compete with the Ards teams and we look forward to the return game with Ballygalget at Cherryvale in August.
Team: Daniel Higgins, Paddy Woods, Matthew Mullan, Donal McKegney, Michael Mullan, Michael Magee, Cormac Hughes 0-2, Matthew McAfee, Niall Wright, Donal Hughes, Michael Guerin, Kevin Duffin, Christian Hunter, Conor McCloskey 0-1. Sub: James Cormican.
Team Picture
Bredagh 3-3 Portaferry 3-8
League game, Monday May 8th - Portaferry travelled to Cherryvale with a full strength side and returned home mighty relieved, having recorded a flattering five-point win after a great game. Bredagh matched their Ards opponents in all departments and led right up to the last quarter when they were hit by two late goals. The quality of hurling from both teams was of a high standard and kept the large home crowd entertained right to the final whistle.
First-half: Bredagh, playing against a slight breeze in the first half, were totally committed from the start and took an early lead with a pointed free from the excellent Cormac Hughes. Poraferry hit back with two points before Donal McKegney cracked in a goal from close range to regain the lead. Portaferry attacks were thwarted time and again by full back Paddy Woods who was on top form sending long deliveries out of defence and keeping at bay Portaferry's star player Michael Doran. The visitors pulled a point back before Bredagh scored a second goal. The Ferry keeper blocked a rasping shot from Donal Hughes but Christian Hunter reacted quickly to flick the ball to the net. Portaferry again pressed forward and were awarded a penalty but the Bredagh keeper Emmett Costello, who was in brilliant form throughout, saved and cleared to leave the half-time score, Bredagh 2-1 to 0-3.
Portaferry came out fighting in the second half and scored two early points followed by a well-taken goal to edge in front by a point. Bredagh responded, they upped their workrate and were rewarded when Conall Doherty latched onto a long through ball to drive a low shot to the corner of the net. The home team were back in front and it was game on as both teams fought tooth and nail in the last quarter to claim the points.
Late goals: It was however Portaferry who got the breaks. They scored a rather fortuitous goal which had more than a hint of "square ball" about it and added a couple of pointed frees to go back in front. They then hit another goal when Doran eventually evaded the clutches of Woods to race through and give Emmett no chance. Bredagh did not drop thier heads in the final minutes but instead laid seige to the Portaferry goals Frees were dropped short in an attempt to find the net but the Ards men held firm. Cormac Hughes sent over a point to finish the scoring in a game in which this young Bredagh team really came of age.
Summary: the look of disappointment on their faces at the final whistle told its own story. These boys now know they have the abilty to compete with the best in the County. Indeed Paddy Woods, Michael Mullan and Cormac Hughes were probably the best players on show on the night. Corner backs Daniel Higgins and Matthew Mullan fought for every ball while wing halfs Cormac White and Diddles were also in fine form. Matthew McAfee posted a powerhouse performance in the middle and the half forwards Donal Hughes, Donal McKegney, and Michael Guerin had a colossal battle against a very strong Portaferry half back line. Conall Doherty showed up well in the corner and had good assistance from Christian Hunter and Niall Wright.
Team & Scorers: Emmett Costello, Daniel Higgins, Paddy Woods, Matthew Mullan, Cormac White, Michael Mullan, Michael Magee, Cormac Hughes 0-3, Matthew McAfee, Michael Guerin, Donal McKegney 1-0, Donal Hughes, Conall Doherty 1-0, Christian Hunter 1-0 and Niall Wright. Subs: Conall Mulholland and Ciaran Kelly.
County Players
Nine Bredagh U-16 hurlers played in a series of trial matches for Down against Meath at Gormanstown in March. There was a large squad of nearly 50 potential Down players, from both the Ards and non-Ards clubs. The nine Bredagh players were Matthew McAfee, Michael Mullan, Paddy Woods, Cormac Hughes, Cormac White, Donal McKegney, Donal Hughes, Michael Guerin and Conall Doherty. Later, six Bredagh players were named in the county squad after more trials and training sessions. This was the highest representation from any one club, including the Ards clubs. The six were Cormac Hughes, Conall Doherty, Matthew McAfee, Cormac White, Donal Hughes and Paddy Woods. They all made the panel even though it was cut from 50 down to 32. There will be further training sessions and the final panel will be cut to 24.
U-16 County Down Hurling Panel 2006: Ballycran - M Taylor, M Hughes, K Coyle, R O’Flynn, D Ennis; Ballygalget - B Toner, J Smith, P White, D Toner, C Colan; Ballela - P McCambridge; Ballyvarley - J McDermott, P O’Neill; Bredagh - C Hughes, M McAfee, P Woods, C Doherty, C White, D Hughes; Carryduff - C Beatty, D Doherty, N Ronger; Clonduff - P Bloomfield; Mourne - D Doyle; Portaferry - F Rodger, P McNally, A O’Prey, S Conlan; Warrenpoint - C Teague, M Rafferty, M Teague, M Cunningham.
Fixtures & Results
League - Phase One
Saturday, March 18 - Bredagh 2-6 Warrenpoint 1-5
Saturday, March 25 - Kilclief 0-2 Bredagh 2-10
Friday, March 31 - Bredagh 4-8 Ballela 1-2
Friday, April 7 - Liatroim 0-1 Bredagh 0-4
Phase Two, Section A
Monday, May 8 - Bredagh 3-3 Portaferry 3-8
Friday, May 12 - Bredagh P Ballycran P
Friday, May 19 - Ballygalget 1-10 Bredagh 0-3
Friday, June 23 - Liatroim v Bredagh
Sunday July 2 – Bredagh P Ballycran P
Friday, July 7 - Portaferry v Bredagh
Friday, August 4 - Bredagh v Ballygalget
Friday, August 11 - Ballycran v Bredagh
Friday, August 18 - Bredagh v Liatroim
Championship
Friday, August 25 and Friday September 1
PHASE ONE REPORTS
Saturday March 18th, Bredagh 2-6 Warrenpoint 1-5 - these teams served up a real cracker in this League opener at chilly Cherryvale. It was always anticipated this would be a tough start against the team that dumped us out of the Championship last season, and so it proved. Warrenpoint were quick out of the blocks and with a wind advantage they struck two points from play in the first five minutes. Bredagh however settled to the task and came storming back, playing some excellent hurling. Cormac Hughes, who over the hour put in a Man of the Match performance, opened Bredagh's account with a well-struck free and followed this with another from play to level the scores. Bredagh then hit two goals, scores which effectively set them up for victory. The first came from the stick of Conall Doherty who flicked the ball past the Warrenpoint keeper from close range. Shortly after Donal Hughes received a cross field pass from his brother Cormac and his shot from all of 35 meters ended in the roof of the net. Warrenpoint replied with a point to leave five between them at the break, Bredagh 2-2 Warrenpoint 0-3. There was more hard, uncompromising hurling after the break and Bredagh, now with the wind advantage, began to pull away with some great points from Cormac White, Cormac Hughes (free) and Niall Wright who saw his goal bound shot somehow turned over the bar by the Warrenpoint keeper. Warrenpoint battled throughout and scored two points of their own before Matthew McAfee sent over the score of the day from wide on the left wing to leave seven between them entering the closing stages. A rare defensive lapse then allowed the visitors to steal in for a goal and suddenly Warrenpoint sensed they could salvage something from the game. They piled on the pressure but the Bredagh defence held firm. In the dying minutes the Warrenpoint centre forward burst through and unleashed a rasping shot which was brilliantly saved by Emmett Costello and cleared by Paddy Woods. Bredagh had weathered the storm and held on for a deseved four-point win. The game was watched by Down U-16 selector Niall Magee who must have been impressed by the performances of many of the Bredagh players. Emmett Costello had a great game in goals while Paddy Woods Michael Mullan and Donal McKegney were the pick of an excellent defensive unit. Cormac Hughes and Matthew McAfee were superb around the middle and up front Cormac White, Donal Hughes and Michael Guerin shone.
Team & Scorers: Emmett Costello, Daniel Higgins, Paddy Woods, Kevin Duffin, Michael Magee, Micheal Mullan, Donal McKegney, Cormac Hughes 0-3, Matthew McAfee 0-1, Donal Hughes 1-0, Cormac White 0-1, Michael Guerin, Conall Doherty 1-0, Pearce Leitch, Niall Wright and Conor McCloskey.
Saturday March 25th, Kilclief 0-2 Bredagh 2-10 - this was another great win against a physically strong Kilclief team in wet and windy conditions on the shores of Strangford Lough. Circumstances dictated a restructuring of the team from last week. The injured Paddy Woods played in goals and distinguished himself with a couple of fine saves. Captain Michael Mullan did a great job deputising at full-back, while netminder turned poacher Emmett Costello scored two cracking goals, one in each half. Donal McKegney slotted into centre-back where he gave a Man of the Match performance by scoring three terrific points from play. Bredagh played against a strong breeze in the first half and got off the mark with the first Costello goal when he took a pass from Conall Doherty to drive an unstoppable shot to the net. Christian Hunter and Niall Wright fired over a point each before Kilclief pulled one back. As the half wore on and and the driving rain made scoring difficult Donal McKegney made two brilliant raids forward to score two points to leave the half time score, Kilclief 0-1 Bredagh 1-4. Kilclief pulled a point back at the start of the second half but that was their final score of the game as Daniel Higgins and Diddles and Co played some brilliant hurling in the Bredagh defence. Cormac Hughes was having another outstanding game at midfield with good assistance from Cormac White. McKegney started the second half as he finished the first when he completed his hat-trick with another fine point. Emmett found the corner of the net for his second goal after great work and a pinpoint pass from Niall Wright. The Hughes brothers then struck five unanswered points between them. Donal started with a lovely ground stroke that sailed over the Kilclief bar, Cormac stroked over a free and and they then took it in turns to record a further three from play to complete the scoring. This was a magnificent team performance and with maximum points after two games the focus is on making the cut to compete with Ards opposition in the second part of the League.
Team & Scorers: Paddy Woods, Daniel Higgins, Michael Mullan, Pearce Leitch, Michael Magee, Donal McKegney 0-3, Matthew Mullan, Cormac Hughes 0-3 ,Cormac White, Donal Hughes 0-2, Michael Guerin, Conall Doherty, Emmett Costello 2-0, Christian Hunter 0-1 Niall Wright 0-1.
Friday March 31st, Bredagh 4-8 Ballela 1-2 - Bredagh made it three wins out of three with this fine victory over Ballela in muddy conditions at Cherryvale. The star of the show was Cormac White who made light of the difficult conditions to finish the game with a personal scoring tally of 3-3. Centre-back Michael Mullan also stood out in what was another fine team effort against a dogged side who were in the game until the final quarter. White opened the scoring with a point but Ballela equalised before Cormac struck for the first, and best, of his three goals, blasting home from 20 metres. Defenders Michael Magee, Donal McKegney and Paddy Woods were well on top in defence while midfielders Cormac Hughes and Matthew McAfee ensured a plentiful supply of ball to the hard-working forwards. Niall Wright and Donal Hughes both struck excellent points and Cormac White hit another to leave the half-time score: Bredagh 1-4 Ballela 0-1. Bredagh started the second-half brightly with points from Conall Doherty and White but Ballela fought back and scored 1-1 to leave just four points between them with fifteen minutes remaining. Bredagh raised their game and when Cormac White found the corner of the net and Cormac Hughes struck a long-distance point, there was only going to be one winner. Conor McCloskey then hammered home a wonder goal with a ferocious ground stroke. Christian Hunter finished the scoring when he burst through to point from close range. This was another great performance from Bredagh with all of their scores coming from open play. Next Friday will be a big test away to old rivals Liatriom but if they can reproduce this form they can maintain their one hundred per cent League record.
Team & Scorers: Emmett Costello, Matthew Mullan, Paddy Woods, Michael Magee, Kevin Duffin, Michael Mullan, Donal McKegney, Cormac Hughes 0-1, Matthew McAfee, Michael Guerin, Cormac White 3-3, Donal Hughes 0-1, Conal Doherty 0-1, Christian Hunter 0-1, Niall Wright 0-1, Conor McCloskey 1-0, Ciaran Kelly and Conall Mulholland.
Friday April 7th, Liatriom 0-1 Bredagh 0-4 - another first for Bredagh hurlers - the first victory over Liatriom on their home ground. A number of factors contributed to such a low-scoring game - the weather and ground conditions were atrocious, the referee decided 20 minutes each way would suffice and both defences were in brilliant form. The first half was played in driving rain and despite this both teams did well to produce some exiciting passages of play. Bredagh played against the wind in this half but still had plenty of pressure on the Liatriom goals. The scores were hard to come by as Liatriom put up sterling resistance. Eventually Donal McKegney made the breakthrough with a well-taken point from play after evading the attention of several Liatriom defenders. Conor McCloskey was unlucky when his goal-bound shot came off the bar and was cleared, and McKegney again went close with a shot which was deflected wide. In defence, Paddy Woods and Michael Mullan were in tremendous form, keeping the Liatriom forwards at bay but the home team eventually drew level with a well-struck long range free to leave the teams tied on a point each at half-time. The first ten minutes of the second half was a dour struggle with no further scoring but as conditions improved slightly, Bredagh lifted their game and the Liatriom defence came under immense pressure. Finally Matthew McAfee, who had an outstanding game, finally broke the stalemate with a brilliant point after soloing down the left flank and firing an angled shot high between the posts. It was all Bredagh in these latter stages and when they were awarded a free on the 45, Cormac Hughes held his nerve to point. Donal McKegney completed the scoring with a magical point from literally on the corner flag. His swerving shot, with the help of the wind, somehow found it's way over the bar.
Summary - this was a heroic performance from the whole team and leaves them with maximum points after completing their four-match program. They are now assured of a place in the Premier Division with the Ards teams for the next part of the League. If this Bredagh team maintain the level of commitment they have shown to date, there may well be a shock in store for their friends in the Ards.
Team & Scorers: Donal Hughes, Daniel Higgins, Paddy Woods, Kevin Duffin, Michael Magee, Michael Mullan, Matthew Mullan, Cormac Hughes 0-1, Matthew McAfee 0-1, Michael Guerin, Cormac White, Donal McKegney 0-2, Conall Doherty, Christian Hunter and Conor McCloskey. Subs: Pearse Leitch, Conall Mulholland and Ciaran Kelly.
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U16 Hurling Friendly: Bredagh 4.-08 1-03 Glenarm
u16 HL Play-off: Bredagh 3-08 1-01 Warrenpoint
Bredagh lads star on county team
U16 League: Kliclief v Bredagh
u16 league: Carryduff 0-05 6-09 Bredagh
Qualifying league fixtures 2008
U16 B Championship winners!
U16 B Championship Final: Bredagh 4-08 3-10 Liatroim
Photographs from the championship win in Warrenpoint
u16 Championship semi final: Warrenpoint 4-07 4-08 Bredagh
u16 HC: Carryduff 0-0 Bredagh 10-14
u16 HC: Carryduff 0-0 Bredagh 10-14
u16 League: Warrenpoint 4-12 2-06 Bredagh
U16 A League: Bredagh 1-04 1-16 Ballycran
U16 Hurling - Down 5-09 1-17 Antrim
u16 HL Portaferry 5-12 Bredagh 1-3
U16 Championship draw
Bredagh 0-2 Ballygalget 5-12
Ballycran 4-9 Bredagh 0-2
Under 16 challenge game
Under 16 challenge game
Kilclief 0-6 Bredagh 4-16.
Shinty
B Championship
Academy Panel
Bredagh 1-4 Liatriom 1-5
Ballycran 4-7 Bredagh 2-2
Bredagh 2-4 Ballygalget 6-13
Liatriom 2-4 Bredagh 1-11
Two More Call-ups
Super Six!
Ballygalget 1-10 Bredagh 0-3
Team Picture
Bredagh 3-3 Portaferry 3-8
County Players
Fixtures & Results
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