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2010

GAA Club notes - Southern Star

 
 
Southern Star 27th November - Minor Football Report
Clonakilty 2-05
Bandon 0-08

Bandon Minor footballers were beaten by Clonakilty in the Premier 2 semi-final on Sunday last in Enniskeane on a final scoreline of 0.08 to 2.05.

Unlike the hurling final replay last week, Bandon were the better team for much of this encounter but they found scores hard to come by.

At no stage were Bandon allowed to develop attacks with players being hauled down all through the game between the two fifty yard lines and it spoiled the contest. As a result scoring chances in front of goal were at a premium and a Bandon forward line that had scored freely all year were limited to two just points from play.

Inevitably Bandon got all their remaining scores from frees, including a fine long range effort from Mark Sugrue at the death to draw level 1.05 to 0.08.

The half-time score in what was a dour free ridden opening thirty minutes was 0.02 to 0.02.

It was probably in the first half that Bandon lost the game as they dominated for long periods but kicked some bad wides and did not make their superiority count.

The second half was a much better contest but was again spoiled by too much fouling which prevented play developing.

Bandon raced into a three point lead 0.05 to 0.02 by the forty minute mark.

Clonakilty playing their best football of the game scored 1.03 without reply to lead 0.05 to 1.05.

To their credit Bandon rallied and from there to the final whistle it was "tit for tat". A fine Clon goal two minutes into injury time settled the contest.

Josh Desmond was Bandon's best player over the hour as he attacked the ball with great conviction. Not far behind him was Peter Murphy who had a very productive hour, also Patrick O' Leary and James McSweeney.

Of the others, Colin Swanton, Michael Cahalane, Sean Og Murphy and Philip Crowley all had their moments.

Cork minor Mark Sugrue showed very well for Bandon but he was "a marked man" from the throw in and was literally fouled every time he got on the ball.

Team : Jamie Crowley, Josh Desmond, Patrick O' Leary, Patrick O' Brien, Eoin O' Mahony, Colin Swanton, Brian Crowley, Peter Murphy, Sean Og Murphy, Matthew McNamara, Michael Cahalane (0.04), James McSweeney, Barry Collins (0.01), Philip Crowley (0.02), Mark Sugrue (0.01).

Subs. : Eoghan Ryan

Bandon's biggest problem going into this semi-final was their total lack of preparation and excellent Coaches Niall Connor and James Milner were powerless in this regard. They put in loads of work with this outstanding group of players and it showed. The Clubs under-age success caught up with this team however and they had been hurling as well right up to last Sunday.



Good to see former Bandon player James Nyhan still making the headlines. James was "man of the match" in the recent County Junior A football final with Cloyne. Not many players win County Junior A medals in both codes, but eleven years on, James has succeeded in achieving this. He won a County Junior A hurling with his native Bandon in 1999. James is married in Cloyne but still attends nearly all of Bandons games and is also a former Secretary of the Club.

There is not much chance that someone told him when he moved to Cloyne that the first County medal he would win there would be in football. Anyway well done James and good to see you getting your just reward after three heartbreaking losses in Senior hurling finals.



The annual Mass for deceased members will be held in the G.A.A. Pavilion on Friday night December 3rd at 8.00 p.m..
Southern Star 20th November - Minor Replay Report
Castlelyons 3-10
Bandon 0-12

Castlelyons were the better team in the replayed County Premier 2 Hurling final played in Pairc Ui Rinn on Sunday and Bandon have no complaints.

They were physically stronger than a very young Bandon side and they really made this tell in the second-half with a powerhouse display.

The concession of three goals, two in the second half was to prove Bandon’s undoing, and try as the might they were unable to breach a much improved Castlelyons defence.

Looking at the final score it is hard to credit that the teams were level for the fifth time after forty minutes. All this after Bandon had conceded a knock-out goal just before half-time and recovered.

Goals certainly do win games and Castlelyons killed the game with their last two efforts.

Bandon can be very proud of the efforts of this heroic side with the U16 players James McSweeney, Matthew McNamara, Patrick O’ Leary, Michael Beecher, Michal Cahalane, Eoghan Ryan and Daithi O’ Donovan enjoying an unbelievable season and one defeat certainly does not take away from their outstanding achievements.

Mark Sugrue was by far and away Bandon’s best player on Sunday and must be short odds now to be a dual Cork Minor in 2011.

Rob Long, Peter Murphy, Colin Swanton, Philip Crowley, Sean Og Murphy, Jamie Crowley, Shane Hickey, Aidan Dullea and Josh Desmond have all enjoyed outstanding seasons and did little wrong on Sunday.

All this panel can hold their heads high and look to the future with confidence, and in essence that is what this season has been all about, moulding a team for the future.

Team : James McSweeney, Matthew McNamara, Patrick O' Leary, Rob Long, Michael Beecher, Peter Murphy,Colin Swanton, Philip Crowley (0.01), Sean Og Murphy, Jamie Crowley, Mark Sugrue (0.08), Michael Cahalane (0.02), Shane Hickey, Aidan Dullea, Eoghan Ryan (0.01).

Subs: Josh Desmond, Daithi O' Donovan.

A big well done to the team mentors Paddy Cahalane, Denis and Brian McCarthy. At the start of the year few would have expected Bandon to contest the County final in this grade but they certainly moulded a fine team between U16’s and Minors as the year went on.



Provisional fixtures:

The much awaited Premier 2 County Minor Football semi-final against Clonakilty has been fixed for 2.00 p.m on Sunday in Enniskeane.



Good to see former Bandon player James Nyhan still making the headlines. James was "man of the match" in the recent County Junior A football final with Cloyne.

Not many players win County Junior A medals in both codes, but eleven years on, James has succeeded in achieving this. He won a County Junior A hurling with his native Bandon in 1999.

James is married in Cloyne but still attends nearly all of Bandons games and is also a former Secretary of the Club. If someone told him when he moved to Cloyne that the first County medal he would win there would be in football. Anyway well done James and good to see him getting his just reward after three heartbreaking losses in Senior hurling finals.



The annual Mass for deceased members will be held in the G.A.A. Pavilion on Friday night December 03rd at 8.00 p.m..
Spillane on song as Castle take the crown - Rory Noonan - Evening Echo 15th November
Castlelyons 3-10
Bandon 0-12

AT the second time of asking, Castlelyons were crowned Premier 2 MHC at Pairc Ui Rinn yesterday.

Having drawn a week previously they had to do it all again and two goals in the second half were the telling scores as Castlelyons ran out deserving winners.

This was a great advert for hurl-ing with both sides playing their part in a top-class game, but in the end the main difference was the scoring power of Castlelyons. With nine players all on the scoresheet it showed the talent in this side, with many picking up their second county medal, having being part of their U21 side a number of weeks ago.

Nobody can say they won it the easy way, having being taken to extra-time on three occasions and a draw last week. But on each occasion they rose to the challenge to come through and yesterday was no different.

In an outstanding team display, captain Brian Carroll led by ex-ample, along with Eoin Maye, Colm Barry and Colm Spillane. There was little to choose between them but Spillane was picked as the Rochestown Park Hotel Man of the Match for his performance at centre-back.

On more than one occasion he rose magnificently to catch the ball and drive his team forward. With players like him and indeed many others in this side, the future can only be bright for Castlelyons.

Bandon too can also take a lot from this tie looking forward. Naturally they will be disappointed at losing, but with young players like Mark Sugrue, Philip Crowley, Michael Cahalane and Padraig O'Leary they are sure to be a force to reckoned with over the next few years.

It took just 40 seconds for Castlelyons to get off the mark when Stevie Joyce set up Darragh Lawlor to point. With four minutes gone Sugrue played a great ball to Crowley but Eoin Barry saved well in the Castlelyons goal with the rebound falling to Eoin Ryan who pointed to level the tie.

Again Barry came to the rescue for his side this time saving from Sugrue and Aidan Dullea, as Bandon were gaining the upper hand. Sugrue put them in front with Ronan Fenton levelling again. With 21 minutes gone Bandon took the lead again with Sugrue pointing after a good run and at the other end they were thankful to keeper, James Mc-Sweeney, who saved well from Spillane to maintain their lead.

From the resulting 65, Spillane levelled the game for the third time, with Chris Cotter pointing to put them in front. A minute into injury-time, a sideline ball by Joyce was caught by Spillane and he goaled to make it 1-4 to 0-3 in his side's favour.

But Bandon weren't going to give up easily and points from Sugrue and Cahalane had the deficit down to two at the break, 0-5 to 1-4.

Starting the second-half where they finished the first they were back on level terms within two minutes when Cahalane and Sugrue were both on target, before Joyce got on of the scores of the game when he pointed from a sideline.

Again Bandon responded with a great point from Crowley, as this game flowed from end to end. With 42 minutes gone the tie swung in Castlelyons' favour when their captain, Carroll, picked up the ball in midfield and ran at the Bandon defence. Evading several challenges, he blasted to the net to make it 2-5 to 0-8 in their favour.

Now it was the turn of Bandon to respond and they did so in style with two points from Sugrue to put only one between them again.

However, Castlelyons took a major step towards the title in a two-minute spell. First Spillane pointed from a free and with 48 minutes gone a great ball from An-thony Spillane, who wasn't long on the pitch, set up Ronan Fenton for their third goal to put them five points in front, 3-6 to 0-10.

A minute later and Barry ensured it remained that way when he saved brilliantly from Crowley, for what looked like a certain goal. Even at that Bandon still weren't finished and two points from Sugrue had the lead down to three points with eight minutes left to play.

Michael Spillane put four between the sides again and with time running out, Bandon knew they had to go for goal. A dropping ball in from a free by Sugrue was caught superbly by Barry to clear the danger, from which Anthony Spillane pointed at the other end.

Noel McAuliffe increased their lead and the outstanding Eoin Maye got the last score of the tie to see Castlelyons crowned champions after an absorbing game and one worthy of any final.

To his credit in his speech, Castlelyons captain, Brian Carroll, paid tribute to Bandon for their part in the game and even among the hype of winning the title still re-membered to wish them well in the county minor football semi-final against Clonakilty next week.

Scorers for Castlelyons: M Spillane 1-3 (3f), R Fenton 1-1, B Carroll 1-0, D Lawlor, C Cotter, S Joyce, A Spillane, N McAuliffe, E Maye 0-1 each.

Bandon: M Sugrue 0-8 (5f), M Cahalane 0-2, E Ryan, P Crowley 0-1 each.

CASTLELYONS: E Barry; P O'Regan, C Barry, T Carroll; C O'Leary, C Spillane, N McAuliffe; E Maye, S Joyce; C Cotter, R Fenton, D Lawlor; B Carroll, M Spillane, R Barnsfield.

Subs: A Spillane for R Bransfield, A Fenton for D Lawlor.

BANDON: J McSweeney; M McNamara, P O'Leary, R Long; M Beecher, P Murphy, C Swanton; P Crowley, S Og Murphy; M Ca-halane, M Sugrue, S Hickey; J Crowley, A Dullea, E Ryan.

Sub: J Desmond for A Dullea.

Ref: Colm Lyons (Nemo Rangers).
Southern Star 13th November
Bandon 0-09
Castlelyons 0-09

This County Premier 2 Hurling final ebbed and flowed throughout and both sides will be glad of the draw and the opportunity to do it all again.

Played in Pairc Ui Rinn on Sunday it was a much better game than the low scoreline would indicate.

Castlelyons seemed to have better individual hurlers while Bandon particularly in the second-half played better as a team.

It was also a game of two halves with Bandon being very fortunate to go in trailing by 0.04 to 0.07 at the break.

In the second half however they were a transformed side holding Castlelyons to two points and being unlucky not to win the game as the sliotar hit both posts and the crossbar in one late attack. Bandon had several goal scoring chances while limiting their opponents to very few.

Those two points came in the opening five minutes and that lead of five points was starting to look unassailable. Every Bandon line started to dominate however and though scores were very hard to come by the lead was whittled down until Michael Cahalane equalised in the last minute.

Bandon's best player was their outstanding goalkeeper James McSweeney and he played more ball than anyone else on the field. At times in the first half he kept Bandon in the game with his ability to read the game and his long relieving clearances. He made a very telling save as well with time almost up.

Matthew McNamara was the star turn in a very effective full-back line where Pa O' Leary and Rob Long gave nothing away.

Michael Beecher strong play started off Bandon's second half rally and he never put a foot wrong throughout. Colin Swanton on the other wing was also very prominent throughout and is improving all season. Centre back Peter Murphy had his hands full but he had a mighty second half at mid-field and in an unbeatable half-back line.

At mid-field Philip Crowley and Sean Og Murphy were under severe pressure in the first half but Philip especially was totally dominant in the second backed up by Sean Og.

The half-forward line were out of the game for long periods especially in the first-half but never stopped working. Michael Cahalanes score-taking to bring Bandon to parity was quite exceptional. Mark Sugrue was unable to dominate as in previous games but like Jamie Crowley he worked hard for the team.

Eoghan Ryan had his best game of the year without scoring and was a real menace in the corner using his pace to telling effect. Aidan Dullea got no change from the full- back but was always looking for the ball. Shane Hickey in the corner had some very good moments as well.

To win the replay the forwards will need to get more scores as only six points were scored from play. Their second half display should give Bandon great heart however as they showed they are well capable of adding this county title to the U16 wins.

Team: James McSweeney, Matthew McNamara, Patrick O' Leary, Rob Long, Michael Beecher, Peter Murphy,Colin Swanton, Philip Crowley, Sean Og Murphy (0.01), Jamie Crowley, Mark Sugrue (0.01), Michael Cahalane (0.06), Shane Hickey (0.01), Aidan Dullea, Eoghan Ryan.

Subs: Josh Desmond, Daithi O' Donovan.



Provisional fixtures:

The Premier 2 County Minor Hurling final replay against Castlelyons has been fixed for 4.00 p.m on Sunday in Pairc Ui Rinn
Bandon bounce back to earn reply - Rory Noonan - Evening Echo 8th November
Bandon 0-09
Castlelyons 0-09

CASTLELYONS and Bandon will have to meet again after they drew in the final of the Premier 2 MHC at Pairc Ui Rinn yesterday.

The game was far better than the scoreline suggests with Castlelyons dominating the first-half and Bandon upping their game after the break to earn a well-deserved draw.

In the end it would have been a pity for either side to lose, with both missing chances late on to do so. Bandon will have been disappointed with their first-half showing, where they were far from their best, but to their credit they re-grouped at the break and played far better afterwards.

They had a number of good per-formances with Peter Murphy, Mark Sugrue and Eoin Ryan playing well, but Michael Cahalane was by far their best player. His four second-half points, along with two in the first, show all that was good about his display and all this from a player who is still under 15.

The opposite can be said of Castlelyons, in that in the first-half they were outstanding and were deservedly in front at the break. But they only managed two points afterwards, both coming in the first two minutes, and from there to the end Bandon held them scoreless.

For them, the Spillane brothers, Colm and Michael, along with Eoin Maye and Ronan Fenton were the pick of their side. After the game both sets of mentors were feeling the same way — relieved. Castlelyons' John Healy said: "We were in control of the first-half and were well on top. But all credit to Bandon they put it up to us after the break and to be honest we were relieved to get away with a draw in the end."

For Bandon, selector Paddy Cahalane felt much the same way: "At half-time we would have taken the draw as we didn't play well in the first-half. All credit to our players they upped their game after the break and in the end we were delighted to get another chance against what is a talented Castlelyons side."

Bandon started the game brightly and points from Sean 6g Murphy and Sugrue had them two in front with three minutes gone.

Michael Spillane got Castlelyons off the mark and his second from a free, after 10 minutes, had them back on level terms. Cahalane put Bandon back in front, with Spillane getting his third to level it again.

They were in front for the first time after 16 minutes when Fenton caught a great ball to set up Chris Cotter to point and a minute later Fenton pointed to make it 0-5 to 0-3.

Points from Brian Carroll and Colm Spillane stretched Castlelyons lead, with Cahalane scoring late on for Bandon as Castlelyons led 0-7 to 0-4 at half-time.

When Anthony Spillane, the third of the brothers, and Michael Spillane were both on target in the first two minutes of the second-half it looked like a question of how much they would win by, rather than if they would win.

But all credit to Bandon they slowly but surely took over, with Cahalane playing a major part up front for them. He was on target twice to cut the lead to three, before they were un-lucky not to get a goal. A shot from Eoin Ryan looked goalbound, but again O'Regan was in the right place to take the ball off the line. Josh Desmond picked up the breaking ball to put it over the bar and with 15 minutes to go it was a two-point game, 0-7 to 0-9.

Bandon kept piling forward as the Castlelyons defence were now under almost constant pressure, with keeper Eoin Barry again coming to their rescue, this time stopping Sugrue and Ryan. With four minutes to go Brian Carroll played a great ball to Michael Spillane and this time it was Bandon who were thankful to their keeper, James McSweeney, for a great save.

With time running out it looked like Castlelyons would hold out for the win, but a great point from Cahalane in the 58th minute had the lead down to one. A minute later and he levelled the game with another great score to ensure they will have to do it all again.

It is still not 100% clear when the replay will be, but the minor board are hoping it will take place next weekend, most likely on Sunday.

Scorers for Castlelyons: M Spillane 0-4 (0-2f), C Cotter, R Fenton, B Carroll, C Spillane, A Spillane, 0-1 each.

Bandon: M Cahalane 0-6 (0-2f), S 6g Murphy, M Sugrue, J Desmond, 0-1 each.

CASTLELYONS: E Barry; P O'Regan, C Barry, N McAuliffe; C O'Leary, C Spillane, T Carroll; B Carroll, S Joyce; R Fenton, M Spillane, E Maye; A Fenton, C Cotter, A Spillane. Subs: D Lawlor for B Carroll, R Bransfield for C Cotter, R O'Regan for A Spillane, B Carroll for A Fenton.

BANDON: J McSweeney; R Long, P O'Leary, M McNamara; M Beecher, P Murphy, C Swan-ton; P Crow/ley, S Og Murphy; M Cahalane, M Sugrue, J Crowley; S Hickey, A Dullea, E Ryan. Subs: J Desmond for J Crowley, D O'Donovan for S Hickey.

Referee: Michael Sheedy (Shanballymore).
St Brogan's on the double - Southern Star 6th November
St Brogans 2-12
Ballincollig 2-05

BANDON'S U16 footballers added the County Premier Football title to the County A Hurling title won just two weeks ago. They defeated a good Ballincollig fifteen in the final played in a wet and windy Inchigeela on Sunday afternoon.

Watched by a fine crowd, given the rather inclement weather conditions, Bandon were finally out of sight when outstanding team captain Barry Collins goaled for the second time with just a minute left.

Bandon were certainly the better team in a hard fought but very sporting contest and had a really excellent spine to their side. All these central players dominated throughout, goalkeeper Conor Lynch, Patrick O'Leary at full back, Patrick O'Brien at centre back, midfielders James McSweeney, and the excellent Michael Ca-halane, together with full forward Barry Collins who finished the game with 2-4 from play.

They were backed up on the wings by the lively Matthew McNamara, also Richard Walsh, Conor Gossage, Daithi O'Donovan and Eoin Ryan and it was because of this dominance that Ballincollig were made to struggle.

For Ballincollig, only Cian Dorgan, Frank Down, Stephen Coughlan and Sean Hogan were prominent all through.

Stephen Coughlan scored a very well worked early goal for the Muskerry champions but after that tonic start they were made to struggle for scores.

Ballincollig had dominated the opening ten minutes of play and raced into a 1-3 to 0-2 lead. As the half wore on however they would need the woodwork to come to their rescue on a couple of occasions as Bandon settled and threatened goals.

Sublime. Poor Ballincollig defending and a sublime finish from Barry Collins saw Bandon goal after twelve minutes. At this stage Michael Cahalane was dominating midfield and distributing the ball to great effect. Bandon though, wasted good scoring chances and were probably over reliant on Barry Collins for scores. As a result they only led by 1-5 to 1-3 at half-time.

In the second half Ballincollig were on level terms by the forty-eighth minute 2-5 to 1-8 but that was to signal the end of their bold resistance. Bandon continued to hold a vital grip in the middle third of the pitch and Ballincollig had to battle very hard for primary possession.

Bandon's backline continued to improve and players like John O'Donovan, Oisin Healy, and Andrew O'Connell came thundering into the game. At the same time the Bandon forwards improved dramatically when the game was there to be won. They ran at the Ballincollig defence in waves of attack and both Conor Gossage and Kerry Desmond added vital scores before the killer last-minute goal.

In that final ten minutes Bandon finished very strongly and went on to score 1-5 without reply. Ballincollig simply had no answer to their greater fire power and ball-winning ability. Try as they might, Ballincollig could not get the ball into the opponents' scoring zone to inflict any damage.

Jubilation. Scenes of great jubilatic greeted Bandon's historic Premier win at the final whistle; inspirational captain Barry Collins was presented with the cup.

Bandon now go on to meet St Finbarr's, the City champion in the overall county final.

This Bandon underage group is rapidly becoming or of the most successful ever produced by the club. In both hurling and football these playei have produced performance of true quality throughout the season.

As if to prove the point, no less than seven U16s will feature on the panel for next Sunday's Premier 2 Minor Hurling final against Castlelyons, as the show truly goes on.

St Brogans: C. Lynch, J O'Donovar P O'Leary, R Walsh, A O'Connell, F O'Brien, M McNamara, 0 Healy, J McSweeney, C Gossage, M Cahalane, E Ryan, D O'Donovan, B Collins, K Desmond.

Ballincollig: S, Hogan, B O'Hallorar D Moloney, K O'Sullivan, D Kirsteir F Down, C O'Donovan, R Noonan, S Murphy, G Delaney, E O'Donoghue, D O'Connor, M O'Mahony, C Dorgan, S Coughlan.

Referee: Denis Hickey (Millstreet).
Southern Star 6th November
Many years of dreams, innovation and planning came to fruition last Wednesday night when the top Pitch Floodlights were switched on for the first time. If first impressions are anything to go by, a game under these lights will be like playing a match in the middle of the day.

Everyone involved can feel justifiably very proud of the biggest project undertaken since the Pavilion was built back in the late 1970's.



Sunday was again St. Brogans day when the U16 footballers captured the County Premier title defeating Ballincollig in the final played in Inchigeela. The players in this grade are having an incredible season having already won the County U16A hurling title, and they are doing the Club proud.

Congratulations to the St. Brogans Club and to all involved.



It was a case of anything Kilbrittain can do Newcestown can do better last Saturday when our near neighbours captured the Premier Intermediate Football championship.

Sincere congratulations to the team the mentors and to Newcestown Club on their fine achievement.



Provisional fixtures:

On Sunday at 2.45 p.m. the County Premier 2 Minor Hurling Final against Castlelyons in Pairc Ui Rinn.

Again this is the Premier grade at Minor level in County hurling and is an historic final for the Club.

We would plead with Club supporters to come out and cheer on these lads who are doing us proud in all grades.

Please check the Club web-page for fixture details www.bandongaa.com
Southern Star - St Brogans - 6th November - U16 County Champs
St Brogans 2-12
Ballincollig 2-05

Another excellent display of football saw the St. Brogans U16 team being crowned the Premier County Football champions. This is an historic victory for the Club.

In a rainy and windy Inchigeela on Sunday they overcame a spirited Ballincollig side.

Credit also goes to the great support that was there to cheer these lads on.

Despite a hairy opening ten minutes Bandon went on to dominate the game. They were 0.02 to 1.03 down after ten minutes but a great first goal by Barry Collins had them in the driving seat and they went in 1.05 to 1.03 ahead at half-time.

In the second half Bandon went on to score 1.07 and their powerful play limited Ballincollig to just 1.02, including conceding no score for the last twelve minutes.

In goal Conor Lynch made a vital second half save and again did all that was asked of him. He is coolness personified between the posts and improves with every outing.

John O'Donovan in the corner struggled early on but was superb in the second half as he attacked the ball throughout and won great possession. Padraig O'Leary was again quite simply outstanding at full-back and led the line well all through. The star of this line in the final was Richard Walsh who had his best game of the year. He also scored the last point of the game with the most deft of gaelic football touches (his father please note, not a drop-kick in sight).

Right wing-back Andrew O'Connell was again seen to best effect in the second -half when he used his physique to drive forward and link with mid-field and forwards.

Centre-half back Patrick O' Brien had one of his best games of the campaign as he tidied up to great effect and ensured nothing soft was given away through the middle.

Oisin Healy repaid the selectors faith in him with a fine display on the left- wing and also as a half-forward. Deputising for the injured Michael Beecher he hardly put a foot wrong and loves to attack at every opportunity.

Mid-fielders James McSweeney and Michael Cahalane had varying success. For once James struggled at times and appeared tired, but true to form he never stopped trying. He has had an outstanding season and he produced a superb last quarter in this final when he came storming into the game. He has the heart of a lion and is vital to this panel.

It is getting increasingly difficult to find anything left to say about his mid-field partner Michael Cahalane. On Sunday he was inspirational and drove forward at every opportunity. His role was hugely significant in Bandon dominating the mid- field exchanges. Countless times he got on the ball and laid on scoring passes. The feature of this excellent group of players is that they just keep on improving with each outing.

Right-half forward Matthew McNamara is becoming the teams "Mr. Versatile" as he switches so effectively between half-back and half-forward. He is such an intelligent player and uses every ball so well. He seems to make so much time and room for himself wherever he plays and always gets on the score-sheet.

Eoin Ryan at centre- forward had a great hour. He ran at the heart of the Ballincollig defence throughout and caused endless problems. Conor Gossage on the other wing scored two vital points and is a great team player acting as a link between outfield and the inside forwards. He always seems to take the right option.

Kerry Desmond also scored two great points and is improving all the time. On Sunday he was a great target man in the full-forward line, always available, always working. Star of the show was full-forward and team captain Barry Collins who scored 2.04 from play. This was easily Barry's best performance of the season and his first goal when he delicately chipped the ball over the stranded goal-keeper was worth the admission money alone.

The best compliment that one could pay to Daithi O'Donovan is that he won every ball kicked into his corner as he was out ahead of his marker and made life very easy for the out-field players to pick him out. The woodwork denied him a peach of a goal in the first half.

When it was all over outstanding team Captain Barry Collins received the County Cup to add to his recently acquired West Cork title.

These players play with a maturity and self-belief way beyond their years and it is hard to believe that so many of these players are only fifteen.

County champions Bandon will now play City champions St. Finbarrs in the Premier County Final proper, in a repeat of the A Hurling final.

Team : Conor Lynch, John O'Donovan, Padraig O'Leary, Richard Walsh (0.01), Andrew O'Connell, Patrick O'Brien, Matthew McNamara (0.01), James McSweeney (0.01), Michael Cahalane (0.01), Conor Gossage (0.02), Eoghan Ryan, Oisin Healy, Daithi O'Donovan, Barry Collins Capt. (2.04), Kerry Desmond (0.02).

Subs: Colm Fogarty, Colin Jackson, Matthew Ahern, Rory Fogarty, Michael Beecher, Chris Harrington, Anthony Moynihan.

Another big well done to the management team of Anthony Nyhan, John Lynch, Phil Murphy, Mick Beecher and Robert O'Mahony.

The U16 Selectors job on Sunday was however made much easier by the fact that a Mentor with the Minor hurlers arrived at the ground two hours early. This all happened due to a clock changing misadventure at home with the hour on Saturday night. Now it’s an ill wind.... as the man in question was able to kill the time inspecting every blade of grass on the pitch over and over and report back. When the game was over, the County won, and all the watches were finally synchronised he made his way to a local restaurant to have his.....breakfast.
Southern Star 30th October
Bandon 1-14
Ballinhassig 2-08

On Monday in Pairc Ui Rinn the Bandon's Premier 2 Minor Hurlers ground out a result full of character and no little skill defeating Ballinhassig in the County semi- final on a final scoreline of 1.14 to 2.08.

This turned out to be a triumph over adversity as Bandon lost a player after ten minutes of the second-half to a second yellow card. True to form they fought on regardless to record a fine win.

It would have been a travesty if Bandon had lost this game as they endured nine wides in the first-half and were through on the Ballinhassig goal on at least four occasions without a single return. They also had the added misfortune of conceding a first minute goal to Ballinhassig in their very first attack. Bandon settled however to completely dominate the half.

The half-time score was 0.07 to 1.04.

The second half was a battle royal with scores at a premium. Credit to the Bandon defence who only conceded a further 1.04 when under severe pressure. Aidan Dullea's early goal was ultimately to prove crucial and some great scores were added from play and frees.

In goal James McSweeney once again underlined his potential with a faultless display between the posts.

The two corner backs Matthew McNamara and Rob Long were very sound all through and full-back Padraig O'Leary again belied his years with a very solid display. Nothing seems to faze this young man and he is coolness personified.

Michael Beecher had a very good game at right-half back and cleared oceans of ball to good effect.

Centre-back Philip Crowleys vital goal-line clearance was worth the admission money alone and he was a very strong and forceful defender throughout.

Colin Swanton played very well on the left wing and scored the vital last point to restore that invaluable three point lead.

Both mid-fielders Peter Murphy and Sean Og Murphy were vital to the cause and they drove Bandon forward at every opportunity. They contested everything and they more than broke even in that vital middle third of the pitch over the hour.

Wing forwards Jamie Crowley and Shane Hickey ran themselves to a standstill and were a nightmare to police.

At centre-forward Mark Sugrue was outstanding all through and is becoming a true leader on the field. On this form Mark is virtually unmarkable and his ability to take on his man and carry the ball relieves so much pressure on what is a very young team overall.

Michael Cahalane in the right corner again really caught the eye despite being marked very tightly, and contributing seven points. He was also instrumental in winning clean possession when Bandon went a man down in that last twenty minutes.

All these U16 players have contributed greatly to what is turning into a tremendous season. It is also worth remembering that these lads had played extra-time in their dramatic U16 football semi-final win less than forty eight hours earlier.

Full-forward Aidan Dullea scored a vital goal and added a point and is a target man in the true sense, while U16 Eoghan Ryan was a bundle of energy and contested every ball as if his life depended on it.

Bandon now go on to yet another final where they will meet the winners of the Castlelyons versus Douglas semi-final.

Team : James McSweeney, Colin Swanton (0.01), Padraig O' Leary, Rob Long, Matthew McNamara, Philip Crowley, Michael Beecher, Sean Og Murphy, Peter Murphy, Jamie Crowley (0.01), Mark Sugrue (0.04), Shane Hickey, Michael Cahalane (0.07), Aidan Dullea (1.01), Eoghan Ryan (0.01)

Subs. : Josh Desmond, Daithi O' Donovan.

A huge amount of credit is due to the back-room team of Paddy Cahalane, Brian and Denis McCarthy who have primed this team superbly.



It is certainly worth "taking stock" of the under-age at this stage of the season.

County U16 A Hurling Champions with seven of the panel playing minor.

Premier 2 Minor Hurling Finalists.

Premier 2 Minor Football semi-finalists playing Clonakilty.

Premier U16 County Football Finalists playing Ballincollig with City champions St. Finbarrs awaiting the winners in the final proper.



A big well done also to one village, near neighbours Kilbrittain on their Intermediate Hurling Championship success. They were the better team over the two days and were deserving winners.

All the more incentive now for Bandon to go on and win this Intermediate grade and thus re-join all their West Cork friends in the Premier grade.



So will it be a case of anything Kilbrittain can do Newcestown can do better?

Best of luck also to the "little village" in next Saturday's Premier Intermediate Football Final against Clyda Rovers. Newcestown continue to successfully fly the flag for dual Clubs as they again bid for Senior status. We wish them well.



Provisional fixtures:

On Sunday the County U16 Premier Football Final versus Ballincollig time and venue to be finalised.

This is the premier grade at U16 level in County football and is an historic final for the Club. We would plead with Club supporters to come out and cheer on these lads who are doing us proud in all grades. Please check the Club web-page for fixture details www.bandongaa.com
Southern Star - St Brogans - 30th October
St Brogans 2-16
Kiltha Og 4-08

Anyone who was in St. Michael’s grounds in Mahon on Saturday afternoon will know that the U16 footballers won what was probably the game of the season in all grades.

Anyone who wasn’t there, we would appeal to you to come out and support this super group of young players in the final.

Bandon eventually disposed of Kiltha Og’s on a scoreline of 2.16 to 4.08 after extra- time in this Premier U16 County Football Championship semi-final.

At half-time the score was 0.01 to 2.04 and even though Bandon turned to play with the wind a nine point turnaround looked to be beyond the team.

A storming ten minutes into the second-half and incredibly Bandon were level. Goals from Michael Cahalane and Kerry Desmond sending Kiltha reeling.

Credit Kiltha Og however as they refused to die and they were able to secure vital goals when needs must. They were to draw level with ten minutes left 2.08 to 3.05 and had Bandon fighting might and main right to the final whistle. They drew level again 2.10 to 3.07 right at the death with a close in free to send the game into extra time.

The real character of this Bandon team surfaced in the second half of extra-time when they recovered from Kiltha's fourth goal which left them trailing at the end of the first ten minutes by 2.13 to 4.08. They went on to keep Kiltha scoreless for the last ten minutes to run out two point winners.

Conor Lynch added to his growing reputation as a custodian and was blameless for anything that passed him. His long accurate kick-outs helped Bandon greatly in the second half.

The full-back line was tested to the limit with both John O'Donovan and Richard Walsh under serious pressure with the amount of ball coming in. This line don't do panic however and they stood firm throughout. Patrick O'Leary was prominent all through and in any code is rarely beaten. As a unit all three were brilliant in the second half and really "put up the shutters".

Patrick O'Brien had a fine game at centre-back as did his wing-backs Andrew O'Connell who was very prominent in the second-half, and Matthew McNamara.

At mid-field James McSweeney was one of Bandon’s best players throughout and works so hard for the team. His partner Michael Beecher, who spent the second half at centre forward, also contributed well and scored a valuable point near the end of normal time.

Bandon struggled all over the pitch in the first-half and almost our entire forward line was coming out second best.

Matthew McNamara both as attacker and defender contributed handsomely to the revival scoring four vital points and winning great possession.

Kerry Desmond had probably his best game to date in a Bandon jersey scoring 1.03 from play with his goal brilliantly taken.

Conor Gossage performed well throughout and played his best football in defence Michael Cahalane spent the second half at mid-field and his display helped turn the game in Bandon's favour. His powerful fielding, running, and defence splitting passes helped Bandon get a vital grip in the middle third of the pitch.

Brave flu victim Barry Collins at full-forward also played a vital role in this win. The Selectors knew they had to use him sparingly as Barry could not well enough to play the entire game. The wise men decided to hold him in reserve from the start of the second half, before re-introducing him with ten minutes of normal time remaining. Barry was to revel in his role as target man for the rest of the game and he proved a real handful creating and kicking vital scores as well as taking pressure off the players out the field.

Eoghan Ryan played his best game for some time while Daithi O'Donovan was always showing for the ball against a well drilled teak tough defence.

Oisin Healy made a huge impact when introduced as a wing-back with his attacking style and he scored a great point when moved to corner forward late on.

Team : Conor Lynch, John O'Donovan, Padraig O’Leary, Richard Walsh, Andrew O'Connell, Patrick O'Brien, Matthew McNamara (0.04), Michael Beecher (0.01), James McSweeney, Conor Gossage (0.01), Michael Cahalane (1.03), Kerry Desmond (1.03), Eoghan Ryan, Barry Collins (0.03), Daithi O’Donovan.

Sub: Oisin Healy (0.01).

Well done to the back-room team Anthony Nyhan, Phil Murphy, Robert O'Mahony, Michael Beecher and John Lynch.



St Brogans 0-00
Ilen Og 0-00

The U12 footballers kept up their consistent improvement by winning the West Cork Plate Final defeating Ilen Og under lights in the excellent Dunmanway venue.

Bandon had only beaten Ilen by two points earlier on in the League and their improvement over the summer was reflected in their winning margin this time out.

The addition of fine physical footballers like Eoin O'Sullivan and Jack France since this teams first round championship defeat has transformed this side. Add to this the amount of time and effort that has gone into increasing, strengthening and improving the panel available, and the future looks bright. The panel available has almost doubled since the beginning of the year.

Team: Ciaran McCarthy, Edward Hetherington, Kieran Walsh, Michael O'Connor, Nelson McCarthy, David Behan, Jordan O’ Driscoll, Paul Lang, Mark O’ Regan, Jack France, Eoin O’ Sullivan, Aidan O’ Mahony, Brian O’ Connell, Cian O’ Connell, Jeremy Collins.

Subs: Eoin Hurley, Luke Fleming, Fiachra Harrington, Aaron Burns, James Daly, Zach Hallahan, Ian Campbell, Sean O’ Sullivan, Aidan Coughlan, Adam Galvin, Aaron Crowley, Robert O’ Sullivan, Eamonn O’ Sullivan.

Once again a big well done to the coaching team.



The U16 Football County Premier Final against Ballincollig has been fixed for this Sunday October 31st in Inchigeela at 2pm. See the web-page www.bandongaa.com for details.
Southern Star 23rd October
Bandon 3-20
Cloughduv 1-11

On Saturday afternoon in Brinny the Bandon Premier 2 Minor Hurlers overcame Cloughduv in the County quarter-final on a scoreline of 3.20 to 1.11.

Overall this was a hugely impressive performance with Cork Minor Mark Sugrue playing his best hurling game of the year and turning in a "man of the match" display.

The half-time score was 2.09 to 1.07 with Aidan Dullea and Jamie Crowley scoring two fine goals.

Bandon continued their superiority in the second half with their excellent back-line repelling everything that was thrown at them.

Probably the biggest talking point of the second half was the poor protection given to some Bandon players by the referee as they forged further ahead, and as matters almost got out of control.

In all there are seven U16 players on this panel and they are having a tremendous season.

Young Michael Cahalane continued his outstanding run of recent form as did full- back Padraig O' Leary, Aidan Dullea, Philip Crowley, Sean Og Murphy, Jamie Crowley and the ever depandable Peter Murphy were also prominent.

Overall this was a very good team effort from what is developing into an exceptional minor hurling team.

The highlight of the day was to see Rob Long back playing. Early this year Rob's season was over to all intents and purposes, sidelined with a serious leg injury. The way this young man stayed positive and battled back from that injury should be an inspiration to all of us. Rob is yet another illustration of how special this group of young players are.

"Some men see things as they are and say why – I dream things that never were and say why not"

Team : James McSweeney, Josh Desmond, Padraig O' Leary, Rob Long, Matthew McNamara, Philip Crowley, Michael Beecher, Sean Og Murphy, Peter Murphy, Jamie Crowley (1.03), Mark Sugrue (0.07), Shane Hickey (0.01), Michael Cahalane (0.08), Aidan Dullea (1.01), Eoghan Ryan (1.0)

Subs: Dathai O' Donovan, Andrew O' Connell, D. Coffey.

Well done to the back-room team of Paddy Cahalane, Brian and Denis McCarthy.



Duirmuid O'Mathunas 2-06
Bandon 0-03

On Sunday morning in Enniskeane in the West Cork Junior A Hurling League Final Bandon lost to Diarmuid O Mathunas by 0.03 to 2.06. This was Bandon's poorest display in this grade for quite some time and this is best illustrated by the half-time score of 0.00 to 0.03.

Bandon could not get into the game and it took until the thirty eighth for them to register their first score.

While the back-line defended reasonably well only two scores were registered from play over the hour.

Team : J. Crowley, B. Hurley, C. Moloney,K. Walsh, J. Walsh, K. Doyle,C. Dullea, R. Moloney, D. Lehane, J. O' Regan (0.01), P. Prendergast, J. Milner, J. Dullea, N. Geary, D. Burke.

Subs. : S. Hickey, J. Crowley, I. McCarthy, R. Wilmot.



Provisional fixtures:

On Saturday in Mahon at 2.30p.m. County U16 Premier Football semi-final versus Kiltha Og (Dungourney / Castlematyr).

Premier 2 Minor Hurling Championship Semi-final in Pairc Ui Rinn on Monday at 1.30 p.m.. against Ballinhassig.
Southern Star - St Brogans - 23rd October - West Cork Champs
St Brogans 1-13
Bantry 0-09

West Cork U16A Football Final St. Brogans 1.13 - Bantry 0.09

"Mol an oige agus tiocfaidh si"

St. Brogans are the West Cork U16 Football Champions after a fine win over a game Bantry side. The match, a fine sporting encounter, was played in Dunmanway under lights on Wednesday night and Bandon were the better team for most of the hour.

This group of players is fast becoming one of the best under age teams ever assembled by the Club and most importantly, as a unit they are never beaten. If as a Club over the years, we have had better teams at U16 level, we have certainly never assembeled a stronger panel of players together in one age group.

Bandon adapted immediately to the lights and took on where they left off in the hurling final against St. Finbarrs. Only for a couple of missed goal opportunities they would have been further ahead at half-time when they led by 0.08 to 0.03.

In goal Conor Lynch did all that was asked of him and never put a foot wrong. Conor also has a consistently good kick-out which is so important in football.

The entire full-back line were quite simply outstanding all through and it is a tribute to them that Bantry did not have a shot at goal. John O' Donovan in the corner was a canidate for "man of the match" as he attacked the ball throughout. Padraig O' Leary in hurling and football is a keystone of the entire defence. Padraig is an outstanding prospect and gets better a better with each passing week. Richard Walsh is totally dependable in the left-corner as he had been on the left-wing and he is a key part of an uncompromising and totally dominant line. All these players can convert so easily from hurling to football and back again, it seems to be second nature to them.

Corner- back Mathew Ahern also played his part in the full-back line and with such competition for places in this squad, he can be justifiably proud to have made the starting fifteen for the final.

Right wing-back Andrew O' Connell particularly in the second -half won great ball and used it to great effect linking with mid-field and forwards. Centre-half back Patrick O' Brien is another one for the future as he is such an accomplished footballer and dominates the centre with an ease beyond his years.

Mid-fielders James McSweeney and Michael Beecher are both playing very well and complement each other with James surging forward and Michael hanging back and holding the middle. Nothing or no-one goes easily through the two fifty yard lines. The lads contest everything and link up superbly between backs and forwards. It was McSweeney's fine opportunist goal late in the second half which effectively killed off the contest.

Right-half forward Matthew McNamara was one of the best players on the field as he dominated in both the right-half forward and left half-back berths and he was a real livewire throughout. Michael Cahalane's vision and ability to lead the line at centre- forward was one of the games highlights, as was his point which was one of the games best scores. Kerry Desmond's game is all about the team and he works so hard to win possession and bring other players into the game.

Bantry had a very tight marking full-back line and the Bandon inside line had to fight might and main for scraps. Barry Collins free-taking under pressure kept Bandon's noses in front when the need was greatest. Barry was always available on the edge of the square, and he played his best football in the half-forward line in the second half when he helped to drive Bandon forward in waves of attack.

Dathai O' Donovan and Eoghan Ryan fought for possession like tigers and contributed hugely to the overall team ethic.

A special word for sub. Conor Gossage who scored two points and played very well when he was introduced.

Incredibly for the second time in five days, Bandon were champions and excellent team Captain Barry Collins received the cup on behalf of a truly outstanding group of players.

Team : Conor Lynch, Matthew Ahern, Padraig O' Leary, John O' Donovan, Andrew O' Connell, Patrick O' Brien, Richard Walsh, Michael Beecher, James McSweeney (1.0), Matthew McNamara (0.02), Michael Cahalane (0.01) Eoghan Ryan, Kerry Desmond (0.01), Daithi O' Donovan (0.01), Barry Collins Capt. (0.06), Eoghan Ryan.

Subs. : Colm Fogarty, Conor Gossage (0.02), Rory Fogarty, Colin Jackson, Oisin Healy, Chris Harrington, Oisin Twomey, Keith Ryan, Graham Bradfield, Kevin Hurley, Stephen Smith.

A big well done to the management team of Anthony Nyhan, John Lynch, Phil Murphy, Mick Beecher and Robert O' Mahony. Over the year these mentors have had to dovetail hurling and football, and minor and U16 codes. They have done so successfully and deserve a lot of credit for keeping up the football standard from this teams U14 win.

One can only marvel at what this side would achieve if they were in one code and concentrating on hurling or football. However watching them truly excel at both codes makes one even more proud of our dual status.
Southern Star 16th October
Goleen 1-07
Bandon 0-06

The Junior B footballers were beaten in the League Final on Saturday last by Goleen.

The final score was 0.06 to 1.07. The game was played with a very strong wind and the half-time score was 0.01 to 1.06 with both sides only recording one score against the breeze.

Team : Jack Donegan, Josh Desmond, Niall connor, Mark Muir, Kevin Walsh (0.01), James Milner (0.01), Eoin O' Mahony (0.01), Patrick O' Neill, Cian O'Mahony (0.01), Brian Crowley, Rob Wilmot, John O' Connell (0.01), David Lehane, Jamie Crowley, Danny Corcoran.

Subs: Aidie Lenihan (0.01), K. Doyle, E. Hetherington, A. Dullea.



Milford 4-14
Bandon 2-13

On Sunday morning at home in the last Intermediate Hurling League game of the season Bandon lost to Milford by 2.13 to 4.14. In a very entertaining game the half- time score was 2.07 to 1.09.

Veteran Milford import Niall Geary who scored some excellent points was easily Bandon's best player, with Jamie Crowley and substitute Shane Hickey also prominent.

Of the backs Cathal Moloney and Cha Dullea were best.

Team :J. Crowley, P. Murphy, C. Moloney, R. Wilmot, B. Hurley, K. Doyle, C. Dullea, R. Moloney, D. Lehane (0.02), J. Walsh, J. O' Regan (0.01), J. Milner, J. Crowley (1.02), N. Geary (0.04), D. Burke (0.01).

Subs. : S. Hickey (1.02), P. Crowley (0.01), J. Dullea.



Provisional fixtures :

Premier 2 Minor Hurling Championship Quarter Final in Brinny on Saturday at 4.00 p.m. against Cloughduv

On Sunday morning at 11.30 a.m in Enniskeane the West Cork Junior A Hurling League Final against Diarmuid O Mathunas.



A big thank you from the Club to all those who have worked on the gates during the year for matches. Overseen by Charles Lucey, Kathleen Canty and at various stages by Don Desmond it has been "all systems go". A special word of thanks to all the catering ladies and John O' Donovan for providing the amplification.
Southern Star - St Brogans - 16th October - County Champs
St Brogans 2-13
St Finbarrs 2-09

St. Brogans are the County U16 hurling champions after a hard fought final win over a very strong St. Finbarrs side. The game played in Ballinspittle on Saturday was a very skilful and sporting contest between two fine young sides.

County finals are very hard to win. It is a given in a final that some players will always step up to the mark in a big game like this. Other players will struggle with the occasion, their form or when things aren't going their way, and not all of Bandon's players were at their best in this final. That however, is where teamwork comes in and Bandon won this game because throughout, they played with a unity of purpose and as a team.

The gale force wind blowing towards the town end threatened to ruin this game as a contest with Bandon leading at half-time by 2.06 to 2.03 and turning to play with the wind.

The 'Barrs however had other ideas, and deserve great credit for their second half performance as they limited Bandon to 0.07 points but could only score 0.06 themselves into the very strong wind. They were level after six minutes of the second- half but credit to the Brogans back-line who really won the day when the pressure was greatest.

Matthew Ahern made some good saves in goal and is improving all the time. He came under great second-half pressure and stood up well to the onslaught.

Richard Walsh had to deal with the 'Barrs top forward but had a storming second half.

Padraig O'Leary and Colm Hourihan were quite simply two of Bandon's best players on the day. The back line as a unit were brilliant in the second half, repelling attack after attack, and relieving their lines with great clearances under severe pressure.

Right wing-back John O'Donovan scarcely put a foot wrong, while Andrew O'Connell at centre-back, held his position and hurled well all through especially in that second-half when the need was greatest. Left-half back Patrick O'Brien in normal circumstances would have been a contender for "man of the match" as he was very prominent all through.

You will always learn more about your players when they face better quality opposition. Mid-fielders James McSweeney and Michael Beecher have both been outstanding in this campaign and in the final they faced their best opponents yet. Both lads acquitted themselves very well in a deliberately congested mid-field area where space was at a premium. The Bandon lads adapted well to the test and were well up for the battle; they fought gamely to the end and displayed no little skill to ensure they broke even in this area.

Right-half forward Barry Collins hurled more ball in this final than in any other game and he eagerly contested possession all through to set up scores.

Centre-forward Matthew McNamara scored a vital goal and was always busy and looking for openings. Eoghan Ryan was a handful for the 'Barrs throughout and set up a goal.

For the entire second half the three inside forwards were starved of possession as their opponents funnelled players in front of their half-back line to cut off their supply of ball. Dathai O'Donovan and the ever improving Kerry Desmond worked hard throughout and never gave up the cause.

They say "cometh the hour cometh the man" and Bandon's "trump card" throughout was full-forward Michael Cahalane who contributed 1.11. It was also probably his move to centre-forward with ten minutes to go that won the game for Bandon as he was able to get hold of the ball when the 'Barrs were starting to really dominate. Given that Michael is only fifteen and has another year in this grade his performance was all the more praiseworthy and if he continues this rate of progress his potential is limitless.

At the final whistle there were scenes of great jubilation as excellent team Captain James McSweeney received the cup on behalf of an outstanding Bandon team.

Surely this team, if these players can be kept together, has the potential to back-bone the Club in the years to come.

Team : Matthew Ahern, Richard Walsh, Padraig O' Leary, Colm Hourihan, John O' Donovan, Andrew O'Connell, Patrick O'Brien, Michael Beecher, James McSweeney Capt. Barry Collins (0.01), Matthew McNamara (1.0), Eoghan Ryan, Kerry Desmond (0.01), Michael Cahalane (1.11), Daithi O'Donovan.

Subs. : Colm Fogarty, Conor Lynch, Jonathan O'Leary, Colin Jackson, Oisin Healy, Edward Ahern, Rory Fogarty, Keith Ryan, Graham Bradfield, Stephen Smith.

Well done to the management team of Mick Beecher, Robert O'Mahony and Dan O' Connell as all their hard work and the hours on the training pitch has deservedly brought them to their promised land.
County Champions!! U12 Ladies Football
Bandon 3-06
Mourneabbey 2-03

On Saturday afternoon, 26th September in the final played in Ovens, Bandon scored an historic first victory in the Girls U12 County Football final.

Only formed at the start of the year this result was truly remarkable because Bandon have managed to capture their first silverware in their first ever final at this level.

The final played against Mourneabbey was a cracking contest from first whistle to last with the final score 3.06 to 2.03.

Mourneabbey raced into an early lead scoring an unanswered 1.02 inside the opening ten minutes. Bandon were slow to settle and Kate O'Donovan settled their nerves when she opened the scoring with a point.

Potential disaster then struck when Mourneabbey replied with a goal. These Bandon ladies are made of sterner stuff however and they began to dominate as great teamwork set up Rosie O'Dowd who crashed the ball to the net.

Kate O'Donovan then hit a purple patch and added 1.01.

The half-time whistle came with Bandon trailing by a point 2.02 to 2.03.

It was Bandon's defence that were the foundation stone for this great win in the second-half, and there was just no way through. Try as they may in that second-half Mourneabbey could not breach the Bandon lines, and were in fact kept scoreless.

The forwards took inspiration from the defence and Katie Desmond with two points and Maeve Lynch with a point edged Bandon in front for the first time. The decisive score however was a scrambled goal from the very impressive Kate O'Donovan and this saw Bandon home.

This was an outstanding team effort based on a very solid defence, an excellent mid- field, and a forward line that was full of movement and always threatened scores.

There were joyous scenes at the final whistle and everybody was fulsome in their praise of the sterling efforts of trainers Paudie Crowley, John Desmond, and John O' Connell. This County championship is just reward for all their efforts.

The historic County winning team:
S.O' Donnell, E. Davidson, A. Hurley, G. Cowhig, S. Hurley, E. McKeon, A. Lynch (Captain), G. Lucey, C. Donovan, R. Crowley, K. Desmond, O. Maher, M. Lynch, K. O' Donovan, R. O' Dowd.
Southern Star 2nd October
Bandon 2-11
Glanmire 0-06

On Saturday in Ballincollig a very good Bandon Premier 2 Minor Football team overcame Glanmire in the County championship quarter- final. The final score flattered Bandon somewhat 2.11 to 0.06.

Two goals in two minutes early in the second half from Philip Crowley and Barry Collins were the story of this game and those scores killed off a stiff Glanmire challenge.

At half-time Bandon led by 0.05 to 0.02 and it was only in the second-half when they played direct football that Bandon got on top. Bandon, while never in serious trouble were inclined to carry the ball into contact too much and that slowed their build up. Glanmire were quite content to defend with numbers behind the ball and were very aggressive in the tackle.

Goalkeeper Jamie Crowley was simply outstanding in goal with his excellent handling and pin-point kick-outs.He also made some vital interceptions to deny scores.

Patrick O' Leary was a commanding full-back and his two corner backs Josh Desmond and the eye-catching Patrick O' Brien were full of energy and hard tackling.

Colin Swanton has really taken to the centre-back position and he controls the area very well, Brian Crowley has boundless energy and is always driving forward, while Eoin O' Mahony did all that was asked of him and was utterly dependable.

At mid-field Peter Murphy played like a man with something to prove and he was a stand-out player over the hour. Along side him Mark Sugrue exudes class, his development as a player at Club and inter-County level over this last nine months has been frightening.

The half-forward line is made up of three of the most promising under-age players in the Club, with the silken skills of Michael Cahalne in the centre flanked by the hard running and equally adept Matthew McNamara and James McSweeney.

Philip Crowley has seldom played a better game for Bandon, as the "elder-statesman" of the forward line, he contributed 1.07 and was probably the best player on the field.

Eoin Ryan was elusive and played for the team while the fifth U16 in the forward line Barry Collins contributed 1.02 to the cause and underlined his tremendous potential.

Team : Jamie Crowley, Josh Desmond, Patrick O' Leary, Patrick O' Brien, Eoin O' Mahony, Colin Swanton, Brian Crowley, Peter Murphy (0.01), Mark Sugrue, Matthew McNamara, Michael Cahalane (0.01), James McSweeney, Eoin Ryan, Philip Crowley (1.07), Barry Collins (1.02).

Subs. Eoin McSweeney, Aidan Dullea



At half-time on Sunday in the Senior game, a very welcome visitor, the Sam Maguire Cup was presented to the huge crowd by Cork Senior players Jamie O' Sullivan, Noel O' Leary, John Hayes and Ciaran Sheehan.

As our accoustics man John O' Donovan lined up "The Banks Of My Own Lovely Lee" some of the outstanding Cork Minor football panel also paraded including our own Mark Sugrue and Peter Murphy.

Also on the pitch were Selector Jim Nolan, our Chairman Denis Lucey, and a special word to Donal McCarthy and Michael Curtin without whom the parade would not have been possible.

The famed trophy spent almost two hours outside the Pavilion and people lined up to admire it or to be photographed with it, or if you were small enough, be photographed in it. It made "Sam" very accessible to people and contributed to the feel-good factor of the day.

Later that evening there was even a vicious rumour circulating, concerning a couple of ardent Kerry football supporters who were in the ground, and were seen to be admiring Cork's trophy from a distance.

They were of course obscured from public view skulking, behind walls, around corners, and under the many cars and vans parked around the grounds. Such was the great sense of occasion though, that some Kerrymen were reported to be almost applauding the Cork players as they took the field. They paid due homage to the first men to beat Down in an All-Ireland final, as the players took the cherished Sam Maguire Cup on walkabout. Such goodwill in sport is rare.

There was a very big crowd in Bandon on Sunday and everything went off like clockwork. Well done to the Secretary Don Desmond for all his hard work and a very big thank you to the huge number of people who helped out and particularly the Ladies who arranged the catering.



Hearty congratulations to the Bandon Mens and Ladies Golfers on their recent outstanding successes.
Southern Star - St Brogans - 2nd October
Bandon 5-16
Kiltha Og 2-13

Bandon U16 hurlers continued on their winning way in the County League semi- final on Sunday evening at home.

They beat Kiltha Og a determined Dungourney/ Cartlemartyr combination in a hard fought encounter.

The final score was 5.16 to 2.13.

Best on the day were Michael Cahalane and Michael Beecher with Dathai O'Donovan and Barry Collins also very effective.

The fullback line of Richard Walsh, Padraig O’Leary and Colm Hourihan were the launch pad for Bandon’s win however as they were unbeatable on the day.

Team: Matthew Ahern, Richard Walsh, Padraig O' Leary, Colm Hourihan, John O' Donovan, Andrew O’Connell, Patrick O'Brien, Michael Beecher, James McSweeney, Oisin Healy, Michael Cahalane, Barry Collins, Kerry Desmond, Matthew McNamara, Daithi O'Donovan.

Subs.: Connor Lynch, Jonathan O'Leary, Rory Fogarty, Keith Ryan, Edward Ahern.



There is a very good chance that the West Cork U16 football final against Bantry will be played this week-end, but the date and venue have yet to be finalised.
Southern Star 25th September


Sadly our County Minor Mark Sugrue didn't get to climb the steps of the Hogan Stand last Sunday as Cork fell just short losing by a point in the All-Irealnd Final.

Bandon GAA Club are extremely proud of what Mark has achieved especially considering that last year he was playing U16.

There are even brighter days ahead for him, and hopefully next year Mark and Cork will go that extra step.

Mark has done his family, his Club, his Division and his County proud.

Well done also to Peter Murphy who was a panellist on that Minor team for most of the year.

Peter is far to good a player to let his season of inter-county setbacks interfere with his hugely promising future.



It was a day to savour to be in Croke Park last Sunday to watch this Cork Senior football team finally reach "The Holy Grail".

For those of us who have followed this team over many years and especially since the hardships endured with the introduction of the back-door system in 2001, this win was particularly memorable.

The "elephant in the room" in that time has always been Kerry in Croke Park, and Cork will have to wait for another day to sort that one. And rest assured sort it they will.

There have been false dawns in the finals of 2007 and 2009 but Cork delivered in a big way on Sunday. Make no mistake the football graph in Cork is only going one way and they can really build on this win. It was always a question of timing and patience as Kerry simply had the better players and certainly four far superior forwards over the last decade. Maybe now the tide is turning and the back-door will will be Corks key for the next decade.

We congratulate the team for what they have done for football in the County, from Manager Conor Counihan and everybody involved particularly the Carbery lads from Ross, Ilen Rovers, St. Colums, team Captain Graham Canty from Bantry,and Alan Quirke and Fiachra Lynch from neighbouring Valley Rovers.

It might be worth the Derry "motor mouth" Joe Brolly's while storing one salient fact about the current Cork football team. For all his bluster players like Nicholas Murphy now have exactly the same number of All-Ireland Senior medals as he holds, and crucially they have the distinct possibility of winning more. This "legend in his own mind", is making it hard to justify paying a television license and having to listen to the rubbish he continiously spouts. His unwarranted criticism of Cork footballers all year is beyond the bounds of fair play and decency in an amateur sport . Brolly could learn an awful lot from the good grace of our near neighbours and fellow "princes of the pigskin" from accross the County bounds, people like Daire O Cinneide, Eamonn Fitzmaurice, and even Pat Spillane who were so magnanamous in saluting Cork's overdue victory.

Finally a plea to the powers that be in Cork G.A.A., never again can we allow twenty years to pass without winning Sam Maguire and a realistic target of say a win once every seven to ten years should be set in stone. The structures are in place now so it's time for Cork to really kick on from here.



Provisional fixtures:

Premier 2 Minor Football Championship against Glanmire at 4.00 p.m. on Saturday in Ballincollig.

U16 County Hurling league semi-final in Bandon on Sunday evening against Kiltha Og (Castlemartyr / Dungourney) at 6.00 p.m.

On Sunday in Bandon at 3.30 p.m. is the replay of the eagerly awaited Cork County Senior Football championship game between Ballincollig and Castlehaven and this is preceded by Gabriel Rangers and Whites Cross in the County Junior A football championship at 2.00 p.m. Help required at the gate.
Southern Star 25th September - St Brogans
Bandon 4-13
Cloughduv 0-05

On Saturday afternoon in Newcestown Bandon U16 hurlers stormed to the County U16 A final defeating Cloughduv by 4.13 to 0.05.

Best on the day were the outstanding Michael Cahalane who top scored with 2.06 and dove-tailed brilliantly with a very effective Matthew McNamara.

Very prominent also were Padraig O'Leary, and both mid-fielders Michael Beecher and James McSweeney.

One player who really caught the eye in the first-half was left-corner back Colm Hourihan whose tackling and clearances were inspirational.

Team: Matthew Ahern, Richard Walsh, Padraig O'Leary, Colm Hourihan, John O' Donovan, Andrew O'Connell, Patrick O'Brien, Michael Beecher, James McSweeney (0.02), Eoin Ryan (0.02), Matthew McNamara (2.0), Barry Collins (0.02), Kerry Desmond, Michael Cahalane (2.06), Daithi O'Donovan (0.01).



Bandon 3-16
Newcestown 3-07

The U16 footballers had a very good 3.16 to 3.07 win over Newcestown in the West Cork semi-final played in Enniskeane.

Barry Collins at full-forward was outstanding while Michael Cahalane at centre- forward led the line superbly.

Richard Walsh, Patrick O'Leary, James McSweeney and Matthew McNamara were also very prominent.

Bandon were very “ring rusty” with all the hurling activity going on but they had too much fire power for their opponents.

They go on to meet the winners of Bantry versus Clonakilty in the final with the winners playing in the Premier County championship.

Team: Connor Lynch, Richard Walsh, Patrick O'Leary, Matthew Ahern, Andrew O' Connell, Patrick O'Brien, John O'Donovan, Michael Beecher, James McSweeney, Matthew McNamara, Michael Cahalane, Kerry Desmond, Daithi O'Donovan, Barry Collins, Eoin Ryan. Subs.: Oisin Healy, Rory Fogarty, Colin Jackson.



Bandon’s U12 hurlers were well beaten by Na Piarsaig in the County B hurling semi- final held in Newcestown on Saturday afternoon.

Team: Edward Hetherington, Ciaran McCarthy, Kieran Walsh, Michael O'Connor, Nelson McCarthy, Mark O'Regan, Sean O'Sullivan, Eoin Hurley, Aidan O'Mahony, Brian O'Connell, Jordan O'Driscoll, Conor Calnan, Jeremy Collins, Aaron Burns, Aidan Coughlan.

Subs.: Luke Fleming, Ian Campbell, Fiachra Harrington, James Daly, Eamonn O'Sullivan, Zac Hallahan, Adam Galvin, Paul Lang, David Behan, Eoin O'Sullivan.



The U10s played a night of challenge games when they travelled to Ballinora last Thursday night. Both clubs fielded three teams on the night which lead to a blitz type event with all teams meeting once for a 15 minute match.

This format meant all players got good time on the ball with all Bandon’s players doing well on the night to record wins in the greater number of matches.



The U8 & U6 teams are travelling again this week. Both teams are off to Kilbrittan to take part in a hurling challenge on Thursday 23rd September at 6.30pm.
Southern Star 18th September
Kilbrittain 2-11
Bandon 1-10

In Enniskeane on Sunday, Bandons Junior C Hurlers lost the West Cork final to near neighbours Kilbrittain on a scoreline of 1.10 to 2.11.

Best for Bandon were Tadhg Canniffe at full-back, Mark Muir, John Aherne, Denis Canniffe and substitute Shane Hickey who came on and scored 0.08.

Team : C. Collins, S. Murphy, T. Canniffe, M. Muir, I. McCarthy, J. Aherne, A. Coomey, D. Crowley, C. O' Mahony, M. Minihane, D. Canniffe (1.0), J. O'Connell (0.02), A. Nyhan, P. Long, D. Corcoran

Subs. : S. Hickey (0.08), J. Walsh, Jamie Crowley.



Bandon 7-14
Clyda Rovers 3-07

On Sunday evening in Bandon the Premier Minor 2 Footballers were much too good for the team they beat in last years County final, Clyda Rovers. The final score was 7.14 to 3.07 with Bandon well on top throughout.

Team : J. O' Leary, J. Desmond (0.01), P. O' Leary, D. Coffey, P. O' Brien, C. Swanton, A. Dullea, P. Murphy (1.0), E. O' Mahony (0.01), M. McNamara (0.01) , M. Cahalane (2.01), J. McSweeney (0.01), E. Ryan, P. Crowley (3.02), B. Collins (1.05)

Subs. : E. McSweeney (0.02), Daithi O' Donovan, Conor Lynch.



Fingers crossed, Mark Sugrue will crown a marvellous season on Sunday with an All- Ireland Minor Football Medal. His Cork Minor team play Tyrone in the final and we wish him, the other local lads Tom Clancy and Jamie Wall and the team the very best of luck.

Last word on the Cork Senior footballers and the criticism that has been unjustifiably levelled at them this year from all quarters. The words of Terence McSwiney are the most appropriate for their quest on Sunday "Victory will go not to those who have inflicted the most, but to those who have endured the most". Hopefully this time next week both Minor and Senior teams will be All-Ireland champions.

All Ireland tickets will be available for collection to those notified in the Pavilion on Friday night from 9.00 p.m.



Provisional fixtures:

U16 A County Hurling Championship semi-final against Cloughduv on Saturday at 1.00 p.m.in Newcestown.

U12 B County Hurling Championship semi-final against Na Piarsaig on Saturday at 2.30 p.m.in Newcestown.

Premier 2 Minor Hurling league against Mayfield away at 6.00 p.m. on Tuesday evening 21/09.
Southern Star 18th September - St Brogans
U16’s

Bandon 4-16
Fermoy 3-09

Bandon U16 hurlers defeated Fermoy in the County U16 A quarter final played in Na Piarsaig on Friday evening by 4.16 to 3.09.

The half-time score was 1.10 to 1.01 with Bandon very dominant in that first-half all over the pitch.

A much improved Fermoy were able to add add a worrying 2.09 in the second- half and at one stage reduced the margin to five points.

However it was Bandon’s ability to tack on 3.06 and to effectively match them score for score that was to prove decisive and give them such a healthy winning margin.

Matthew Aherne was very safe and sound all through in goal.

Padraig O’ Leary had a great game at full-back and Colm Hourihan and Richard Walsh hardly put a foot wrong throughout in the corners.

Centre-back Andrew O’Connell was very solid and came storming into the game in the last quarter when the need was greatest.

Right half-back John O’Donovan was very prominent in the first-half with left half-back Patrick O’Brien putting in a very solid hour.

Mid-fielders Michael Beecher and James McSweeney scored 0.08 between them and were outstanding throughout dominating the middle third. They were the launch pad for Bandon’s win.

Michael Cahalane and Matthew McNamra were very prominent up front with Barry Collins, Kerry Desmond and Eoin Ryan providing the openings.

Daithi O’ Donovan added two more opportunist goals to his ever increasing tally.

Team : Matthew Aherne, Colm Hourihan, Padraig O’ Leary, Richard Walsh, John O’ Donovan, Andrew O’ Connell, Patrick O’ Brien, Michael Beecher (0.05), James McSweeney (0.03), Barry Collins, Matthew McNamara (0.03), Eoin Ryan (0.01), Kerry Desmond (1.0), Michael Cahalane (1.04), Daithi O’ Donovan (2.0).

Well done to coaches Robert O’Mahony, Dan O’Connell and Michael Beecher as they move one step closer to the Holy Grail.

The U16 hurling County A semi-final against Cloughduv has been fixed for Newcestown on Saturday at 1.00 p.m.

The game will be followed at 2.30 p. m. at the same venue by the County U12 B hurling semi-final between Bandon and Na Piarsaig.



U12s

The U12 hurlers beat Newcestown in the West Cork semi-final held in Ballinascarthy last Wednesday night.

This was Bandon's best performance of the year and their backs led by excellent centre- back Mark O'Regan were well on top.

They say "the apple never falls far from the tree" and Brian O'Connell whose father Dan had a reputation as a "goal getter", gave an exhibition of score taking to lead Bandon into the West Cork final.



On Sunday night in Timoleague, the last West Cork U12 Hurling final for sometime featured Bandon against Clonakilty.

The game was played in absolutely awful weather conditions. The venue was lashed by driving wind and rain throughout the sixty minutes and full credit to both teams in the circumstances.

The game was a bridge too far for a very young but improving Bandon side.

Clonakilty were full value for their win, they had a number of very good hurlers, were much physically stronger, and they adapted much better to the prevailing weather conditions.

The fast direct ball into the inside forwards that served Bandon so well in their high scoring semi-final was never possible on the night and as a result they struggled manfully for scores.

Team : Edward Hetherington, Ciaran McCarthy, Kieran Walsh, Michael O ' Connor, Nelson McCarthy, Mark O' Regan, Jordan O' Driscoll, Eoin Hurley, David Behan, Aidan O' Mahony, Eoin O' Sullivan, Jeremy Collins, Aidan Coughlan, Aaron Burns, Brian O' Connell.

Subs. : Sean O' Sullivan, Luke Fleming, Ian Campbell, Fiachra Harrington, James Daly, Eamonn O' Sullivan, Zac Hallahan, Adam Galvin, Conor Calnan, Paul Lang.

Well done to the team mentors Dominic Collins, Neilus McCarthy, Paddy Murray, Paul Behan, Trevor McCarthy, Pat Ahern, and Gerry Short who are doing tremendous work with this squad of players.



U10s

St Brogans U10’s were working hard again in the past few weeks. On Thursday 2nd September, they had their first round of the hurling league against Blarney.

This was only the second game of the summer where the U10’s came home without the spoils. But with Thursday behind them they were quickly back on the pitch for the second round against Éire Óg in Bandon on Sunday morning, 5th Septmeber.

Both clubs fielded two teams for this outing.

The first game was extremely close with both teams coming from behind at various stages.

St Brogans kept the faith and the defensive work of all but in particular Jack Calnan, made sure Conor Walsh and for a while Gavin O'Connell in goal were covered where possible.

Midfielders Conor Calnan and Cian Farrell helped the final tally with a number of the scores coming from these two.

Up front Éire Óg were under pressure from Harry Lilis who also found the goal, ably assisted by Brian McSweeney.

With St Brogans down by a goal and a point entering the final third of the game the lads held their heads high with each and every one of them giving one hundred and ten percent ensuring St Brogans took victory by the narrowest of margins at the full-time whistle.

While the second game ended with Éire Óg taking the spoils there was some fine work put in again by all the lads and though they were always on the back foot they didn’t give up and every one of them can be proud of their work.

Great defensive efforts were made by all again in this game, up for mention on the day was the improvement shown by Cian Kelleher.

Conor Creagh Piper in goal helped keep the score down with some excellent saves.

While Niall Daly is also up for mention for his unstinting efforts around midfield with Dylan ODonovan, and John OMahony also put in some fine work.



U6s & U8s

The U6’s and U8’s were also in action in the past two weeks with another leg of their blitz on Saturday, 1st September.

This leg was excellently hosted by Ballinhassig, who made everyone extremely welcome and provided the all too important treat after the game to all participants.

While there were no scores kept the teams all felt they had done a very good days work.

Don’t forget St Brogans double header on Saturday next as mentioned above the teams would be grateful of everyone’s support and best of luck to all concerned.
Southern Star 11th September
Bandon 4-12
St.Itas 0-09

Bandons Minor Hurlers scored a fine win over Killeagh St.Itas by 4.12 to 0.09 to advance to the quarter-final of the Premier 2 Minor Hurling Championship against Cloughduv.

The game played in Church Road, Blackrock was nothing like the formality the scoreline suggests as Killeagh completely dominated the first-half with the wind to their backs.

They were kept at bay time and again by a superb Bandon backline. The backs fought like tigers all through and despite all the pressure, didn't concede a single goal.

It was thanks in the main to the outstanding goalkeeper James McSweeney and his six defenders that Bandon went in at half-time leading by 2.02 to 0.06.

Jamie Crowleys opportunist goal in that first-half against the run of play kept Bandon in it. That score was followed just before the break by a vital second goal finished to the net by Aidan Dullea.

Three scores in the second half were worth the admission money alone and deserve mention. Just after half-time a cracking goal, an unstoppable shot after a marvellous solo run by mid-fielder Mark Sugrue. This score really set Bandon on the road and left the opposition reeling and chasing the game for the first time.

Soon afterwards came a superb point by young Michael Cahalane. James McSweeney's booming puck-out seemed to be covered by two Killeagh half-backs under the dropping ball. He came from nowhere and completely out-fielded the Killeagh players. Having won the ball he burst past the defenders, steadied himself, and sent the ball straight between the posts for an inspiring score.

Not to be outdone late on, the equally young, and very lively Eoin Ryan, brilliantly timed his run to the thirteen metere line to double overhead on an incoming high centre for a sublime goal.

Great to see Peter Murphy back in action, and back to his best again after his enforced injury lay-off.

Philip Crowley had an outstanding game particularly when he moved to centre-back.

We dont want to be greedy about our Cork Minor allocation this year, but if there were twenty five better minor hurlers in the City and County this campaign than Philip, surely Cork and not Kilkenny would be All-Ireland Minor champions now .

Overall this win was very much a team effort however from James McSweeney all the way through to Eoin Ryan and all the younger players are really starting to benefit from the experience being gained.

Team : James McSweeney, Joshua Desmond, Patrick O' Leary, Matthew McNamara, Colin Swanton, Peter Murphy (0.01), Michael Beecher, Sean Og Murphy (0.02), Mark Sugrue (1.02), Jamie Crowley (1.02), Philip Crowley, Shane Hickey (0.02), Michael Cahalane (0.02), Aidan Dullea (1.0), Eoin Ryan (1.01).

Well done to Paddy Cahalane, Denis McCarthy and Brian McCarthy who are doing great work moulding this team.



Provisional fixtures:

U16 A County Hurling Championship quarter-final against Fermoy on Friday night at 6.30 p.m.Venue to be confirmed.

Premier 2 Minor Football League against Clyda Rovers provisionlly fixed for 3.00 p.m. on Sunday next in Bandon
Southern Star 11th September - St Brogans
St Brogans U10’s were working hard again this week. On Thursday night last they had their first round of the hurling league against Blarney. This was only the second game of the summer where the U10’s came home without the spoils.

But with Thursday behind them they were quickly back on the pitch for the second round against Éire Óg in Bandon on Sunday morning. Both clubs fielded two teams for this outing. The first game was extremely close with both teams coming from behind at various stages. St Brogans kept the faith and the defensive work of all but in particular Jack Calnan, made sure Conor Walsh and for a while Gavin OConnell in goal were covered where possible. Midfielders Conor Calnan and Cian Farrell helped the final tally with a number of the scores coming from these two. Up front Éire Óg were under pressure from Harry Lilis who also found the goal, ably assisted by Brian McSweeney. With St Brogans down by a goal and a point entering the final third of the game the lads held their heads high with each and everyone of them giving one hundred and ten percent ensuring St Brogans took victory by the narrowest of margins at the full-time whistle.

While the second game ended with Éire Óg taking the spoils there was some fine work put in again by all the lads and though they were always on the back foot they didn’t give up and every one of them can be proud of their work.

Great defensive efforts were made by all again in this game, up for mention on the day was the improvement shown by Cian Kelleher. Conor Creagh Piper in goal helped keep the score down with some excellent saves. While Niall Daly is also up for mention for his unstinting efforts around midfield with Dylan ODonovan, and John OMahony also put in some fine work.



The U6’s and U8’s were also in action this week with another leg of their blitz on last Saturday.

This leg was excellently hosted by Ballinhassig, who made everyone extremely welcome and provided the all too important treat after the game to all participants.

While there were no scores kept the teams all felt they had done a very good days work.

To follow on from this there is a football home challenge night (instead of training) planned for Tuesday against Kilbrittain, with talk already of a return night being hosted by Kilbrittain for all to test their hurling skills. So the fun and games go on.



The big match for next weekend is the U16A County Championship fixture where St Brogans will meet Fermoy. The game is due to be played on Friday 10th September with the venue to be confirmed. So the best of luck to all.
Southern Star 4th September
Ballygarven 3-14
Bandon 3-11

Bandon Intermediate hurlers were beaten in their quarter final encounter against Ballygarvan in Brinny on Tuesday night.

The final score was 3.11 to 3.14 and the better team won.

Bandon never lead and in truth never recovered from Ballygarvan's whirlwind start which had them 0.01 to 2.06 ahead after just twelve minutes.

Bandon were cleaned out in the air all night long as Ballygarvan used their greater physique to good effect and they were able to play much of the game on their terms.

However Ballygarvan can hurl as well and on this form they will be very hard to beat.

At no stage were Bandon to play with the same fire and intensity of the Kanturk or Aghada game, or credit to their opponents, maybe they just weren't allowed.

By half-time Bandon had come storming back into the match and trailed by just 2.05 to 2.09, turning to play with a good strong wind.

At the three quarter stage they had drawn level but conceded a killer third goal which ultimately was to prove decisive.

Bandon couldn't open up the play enough to test their opponents with the running game which brought them two first half goals.

The tight and tense exchanges in the last ten minutes suited the winners as they mopped up ball after ball.

Young Joe Harrington had a fine game at mid-field, Donough Lucey and the evergreen Darren O' Donoghue were also at their best.

Team : Steven Murphy, Joe Burke, Darren Ryan, Philip Crowley,Gavin O' Riordan, Donough Lucey, Eoin O' Donovan, James O' Donovan, Joe Harrington, Darren Crowley, Tomas O' Donoghue, Jason Hickey, Darren O' Donoghue (2.0), Jason McCarthy, Ronan Crowley.

Subs. Roy Payne, Niall O' Rourke, Mark Sugrue.

This very young team made great strides this year, thanks in the main to Coach Teddy McCarthy. Along with Padraig Crowley and Paddy Cahalane they moulded a strong side who should be there or thereabouts for quite a while.

With the benefit of hindsight the injuries carried into the game by James O' Donovan who only lasted twenty minutes, and Jason McCarthy who couldn't train, were significant factors.



Last Sunday in Croke Park, Mark Sugrue became the first Bandon footballer since Michael Lyons in 1987 to play in an All Ireland Minor semi-final. Mark can be very proud of his role in Cork's outstanding win over Galway and he is now looking forward to the All-Ireland Minor football final against Tyrone.

Well done also to Donough Lucey who was part of the Cork Intermediate hurling panel that went down to Kilkenny in the All Ireland final.



Provisional fixtures:

Premier Minor 2 Hurling championship on Friday night at 6.45 p.m. against Killeagh St.Ita's in Church Road.

Intermediate hurling on Saturday in Bandon in the Sean O Coilean Cup at 4.00 p.m.

On Sunday morning in Bandon at 12.30 the West Cork U21 A Hurling final between Kilbrittain and Newcestown.
Southern Star 4th September - Celebration time again for St Brogans.
Bandon 8-09
Newcestown 2-11

Warm favourites Bandon were crowned West Cork U16 hurling champions as expected in Enniskeane on Wednesday night.

They defeated a gallant Newcestown side, on a final scoreline of 8.09 to 2.11.

At half-time Bandon led by 4.02 to 1.06 after a relatively even first-half. However with ten minutes of the second half gone, that lead was reduced to just a goal.

In a somewhat "turbo charged" last twenty minutes Bandon got on top in all sectors and really made their dominance count on the scoreboard, to run out easy winners.

Goalkeeper Alex O'Neill had a fine hour between the posts and was soundness personified.

Full-back Padraig O'Leary was in complete control on the edge of the square and Richard Walsh hurled more ball than any other Bandon player, with Colm Hourihan giving great cover in the left corner.

Andrew O'Connell is developing into a quality centre-back and was totally dominant particularly in the second half. This line was rarely beaten with both wing backs John O'Donovan and Patrick O'Brien prominent all through.

Mid-fielders Michael Beecher and James McSweeney dominated the centre and are both fine hurlers with a real physical presence, and with Beecher also un-erring from placed balls.

Right half forward Barry Collins was one of Bandon's best players on the night and he made numerous scores with his touch and vision.

Mathew McNamara scored two cracking goals though inhibited by injury, and new-comer Kerry Desmond is developing all the time on the left wing.

The best tribute that could be paid to Michael Cahalane is that because of his recent scoring exploits, Newcestown completely changed around their team and employed a sweeper to play in front of their full-back line.

This ploy was designed to starve Michael of possession, and it succeeded to a degree (he still managed to bag 1.04). He was still a constant threat and won great ball over the hour.

Nobody told Dathai O'Donovan about the sweeper system however and he played a blinder, bagging four goals in a real goal poaching performance.

Eoghan Ryan in the other corner acted as a provider and had a very productive hour.

Team : Alex O' Neill, Richard Walsh, Padraig O'Leary, Colm Hourihan, John O' Donovan, Andrew O'Connell, Patrick O'Brien, Michael Beecher (0.03), James McSweeney (0.01), Barry Collins (1.01), Mathew McNamara (2.0), Kerry Desmond, David O' Donovan (4.0), Michael Cahalane (1.04), Eoghan Ryan.

Subs.: Conor Lynch, Jonathan O'Leary, Rory Fogarty, Keith Ryan, Colm Fogarty, Edward Ahern, Graham Bradfield, Shane Harte.

A big well done to Coaches Mick Beecher, Dan O'Connell, and Robert O'Mahony who are assembling an exceptionally gifted panel of young players.



The U10s also continued on their winning form with their trip to Pairc Uí Chaoimh on Tuesday. While only 16 of the 36 strong panel were able to travel due to the structure of the blitz event organised those that went made their coaches and supporters proud.

The lads relished the experience of playing in Pairc Ui Chaoimh most for the first time.

There were four teams involved on the day St Brogans, Bishopstown, Fr O’Neills and Castlelyons.

The blitz was organised as a non competitive event and therefore no official scores were kept. However the St Brogans players kept their own tally and came home jubilant.

All the lads played their hearts out from start to finish and even though they were starting to show signs of fatigue by the end of their third match the few balls that came close to causing any major trouble were handled perfectly by Conor Walsh in goal supported by a very strong defensive line which included Jack O’Donoghue who put in some cracking blocks and clearances.

So with a big day behind them the team came home to rest prior to their second test of the week a challenge match against St Marys at home on Saturday morning.

Both sides fielded enough players to hold two games on the day. While St Marys had more of their U8s on the second team, they also got a little assistance from an older sibling of one of their team to cover goal.

So while overall it didn’t go their way the visitors went home with plenty to talk about.

The other game was a much tighter affair than the previous meeting of these two sides a few weeks ago while St Brogans were missing a number of their older players St Marys were back to strength.

Overall a good mornings work for both teams and hopefully for St Brogans a sign of how at least some of the games in the upcoming League might go.

The first game will be St Brogans v Blarney (away) Thursday night 2nd September, 7.00pm.
Southern Star 28th August
St James 2-09
Bandon 0-08

In Clonakilty on Saturday night we found out that there is a very good reason why prior to 2009, Bandon in 1975 were the last second team to win the West Cork Junior A Hurling championship. It is just not easily done, and probably impossible to repeat.

The Bandon Junior A hurlers were beaten by St. James Ardfield on a scoreline of 0.08 to 2.09. in their quarter final meeting.

Bandon trailed at half-time by 0.04 to 1.05 and had great difficulty with the pace of their opponents and certainly could not afford to hit the seventeen wides they recorded over the hour, with ten misses in the first half alone.

This team and their mentors can be very proud of their efforts over the last two championships, winning last years West Cork final against all the odds and running eventual County champions Fermoy to a point defeat.

Best on the night were Cathal Moloney, Brian Hurley, Kevin Lucey and Niall Geary.

Bandon had a vital goal disallowed with about five minutes to go and this had a major bearing on the eventual outcome. The goal would have put Bandon one point up. When play resumed Ardfield scored their second goal to put them an almost unassailable five points in front.

While we will argue to the death that the Bandon goal should have stood, the disallowing of the goal was only part of the story in what became a very unsavoury incident.

This has been a bad month for Referees and Officials safety in this division and beyond. All Clubs have a duty to protect the Referee and his Officials. Conversely the Referee also has a duty to protect his own Officials, and this duty is sacrosant. When the neutral Umpire raised the green flag on Saturday night to signal the Bandon goal, we were treated to the spectacle of that Official being set upon, pushed and jostled by a St. James player. While the Referee may not have seen the incident itself, and irrespective of the Referee's decision to disallow the goal, his consultations with his Umpires should have meant the game would resume with a player receiving probably the ultimate sanction and also facing the possibility of being reported to the Board for further censure. Referees and the G.A.A. cannot allow match Officials to be physically intimidated by players in this manner. There were certainly enough prominent West Cork Board Officials at the game to ensure that further action is taken.

Team : J. Crowley, K. Walsh, K. Lucey, C. Moloney, D. Ahern, K. Doyle, B. Hurley, D. Lehane (0.02), R. Moloney, J. O' Regan (0.01) , J. Milner, J. Dullea (0.03), D. Burke, N. Geary (0.02), P. Prendergast, Subs. : R. Wilmot, T. Barrett, M. Mehigan



Best of luck to Donough Lucey who is part of the Cork Intermediate hurling panel to play in the All Ireland final against Kilkenny in Thurles on Saturday.

Best wishes also to Mark Sugrue who is part of the Cork Minor football panel for their All-Ireland Minor football semi-final on Sunday in Croke Park.



All roads lead to Brinny on Tuesday night next August 31st for Bandon's Intermediate Hurling Championship quarter-final against Ballygarvan fixed for 6.30 p.m.

Best of luck to all the lads concerned and hopefully all their hard work will pay off, with a place in the semi-final against Barryroe awaiting the winners.
Southern Star 28th August - St Brogans
St Brogans 3-14
Carrigaline 3-06

St Brogans are again after a good week.

The U16s have recorded another win in hurling with a home game last Thursday night against Carrigaline.

The final score was St Brogans 3 - 14, Carrigaline 3 - 06.

This now means that they are in the championship final against Newcestown.

The fixture is set for Wednesday, 25th August in Enniskeane at 6.30pm.



The U12s are awaiting the result of an upcoming game between Clonakilty and Newcestown to find out who they will play in their Hurling Championship match which is due to be played in Ballinascarthy on Thursday, 2nd September at 6.30pm.



Also this week the U10s were in a game at home against Kilbrittan.

St Brogans were the stronger team from beginning to end.

The teamwork from Shane Lowney and Robert O’Driscoll ensured the ball regularly didn’t get past the halfway.

Any ball that did make it past the lads was defended brilliantly by all with particular mention going to Ben Donegan.

Frank Toner was another player that showed a big improvement this week.

So with another win behind them the U10s are happily heading off to Pairc Uí Chaoimh on Tuesday to take part in a blitz organised for clubs who hosted VHI Cúl Camps this year.
Southern Star 21st August
Kilbrittain 3-08
Bandon 0-16

Bandon's Intermediate Hurling Championship quarter-final against Ballygarvan has been fixed for Brinny on Tuesday August 31st.

One could point to the incalculable losses of Peter Murphy, Jason McCarthy and Roy Payne as having a huge bearing on Bandon relinquishing their West Cork U21 crown to Kilbrittain in Enniskeane on Sunday afternoon. Despite the absentees however, Bandon very much had the winning of this game in their own hands.

The final score in this game was 0.16 to 3.08 with Bandon leading at half-time by 0.12 to 2.03.

However it was the concession of two very soft goals, one in each half, which was ultimately to cost Bandon their title.Certainly it is difficult to see how Kilbrittain could have won this game without the reigning champions leaking goals at vital stages.

Ronan Crowley was by far and away the best player on the pitch, hard to credit that he scored thirteen points over the hour and wound up on the losing team.He scored an incredible eleven points in the first half, from all angles, and recorded no wide. Best of the rest were Philip Crowley, Mark Sugrue and Darren Ryan.

Team: S. Murphy, M.O' Leary, E. Sugrue, R. Wilmot, S. Lynch, D. Ryan, P. Crowley, J. Harrington, R. Crowley (0.13), M. Sugrue (0.02), D. Crowley, J.Crowley, T. Barrett, F.O' Leary (0.01), B. Kelly.

Subs. : M. Minihane, S. Hickey

This game was held up for almost three quarters of an hour due to an unfortunate injury to Kilbrittain player Tom Harrington. The injury necessitated awaiting the arrival of an ambulance to remove the injured player before play could continue. We understand he is on the road to recovery and wish him a speedy recovery.



On Saturday night all roads lead to Clonakilty for the West Cork Junior A Hurling Championship quarter final against St. James. Best of luck to Joe McCarthy, Niall O' Halloran and all the lads as they once again put their title on the line. Great work continues to be done with this team and hopefully they will translate all that effort to the pitch for a potentially difficult encounter.



St. Brogans the under age arm of the Club ran a hugely successful Cul Camp in the Club last week. Almost two hundred children attended and a big well done to all who helped out and the Coaches.

A very welcome visitor to the camp on Wednesday last was the Sports Minister Mary Hanafin. She was greeted by the Club Chairman and a group of Club Officers as she was shown around the Club's new facilities. A native of Thurles the Minister tried might and main to convert all the kids to the Tipperary cause, but Deise fans Michael Jnr. and Emily Beecher were having none of it. When their Dad, Mick Snr. eventually comes out of hiding (after Sunday's latest reverse) he should be very proud.



Provisional fixtures :

There is a West Cork Junior A Hurling quarter-final between Diarmuid O Mathunas and Kilbrittain fixed for Bandon on Friday night.

On Tuesday August 25th, hopefully with Cork footballers safely in the All Ireland final, Bandon hosts the Senior Football Championship tie between Castlehaven and Ballincollig at 6.30 p.m.Help will be required for these fixtures.

Junior A Hurling Champioship, Bandon v St James, Clonakilty, Sat 21st Aug, 7pm.
Southern Star 21st August - St Brogans
St Brogans ran another extremely successful Cúl Camp last week, with over 150 taking part it was a busy week for all.

The group had a number of high profile visitors with Minister Mary Hannifin stopping by on Wednesday during her visit to Bandon. While she was there she made sure to request some extra support for Tipperary against Waterford at the weekend. Also the group were lucky enough to have been visited by three Cork Footballers during the week, Ciarán Sheehan, Daniel Goulding and Paddy Kelly.

So with another year over a huge thank you must go out to all involved but the coaches in particular who made the event such fun for the children. While it's great for the kids to meet the Cork stars, to many, the chance to learn from the Bandon lads that they follow to matches is just as important. So for anyone who caught the bug during the week and isn't already training please make sure to come join us. Contact numbers for the trainers for each age group are available on our website (www.bandongaa.com).

See you all again next year!!
Southern Star 14th August
Bandon 3-18
Kanturk 1-10

Bandon's biggest concern after their fine Intermediate hurling championship win over Kanturk on Monday night in Coachford were the injuries suffered by Jason McCarthy and James O' Donovan. We wish both of them, and also Peter Murphy who sustained a nasty injury recently, a speedy recovery.

The final score in this game played on monday night, was 3.18 to 1.10 and Bandon now go on to play Ballygarvan in the quarter final at the end of the month.

The score at half-time was 3.07 to 0.04 with Mark Sugrue, Jason McCarthy and Ronan Crowley all finding the net. How often have we lamented our first teams inability to score goals. Now it is the teams goal scoring ability allied to the drop in their wides count, that is making them a side with real potential.

Stephen Murphy was rock solid in goal and hardly put a foot wrong.

Darren Ryan anchored a very impressive full-back line with Joe Burke revelling in the freedom of the corner and minor Philip Crowley in the left corner, being very impressive on his debut.

Left-half back Eoin O' Donovan was outstanding with Donough Lucey continuing to enjoy a new lease of life since his move to centre-back, and Gavin O' Riordan putting in a fine hour.

Given the quality of the oppositions mid-field, young Joe Harrington and James O' Donovan, prior to his injury, really stole the show. They tore into everything from the first whistle and dominated throughout.

Tom O' Donoghue at centre-forward is the find of the year so far, everything he does is for the team, every single ball is contested, and no ball is given away.

There are people who are critical of these players but we should all remember how young they are. Last night Bandon started with two minors, four under twenty ones, and five players at twenty two or just over.

Of the eighteen that played against Kanturk only Joe Burke, Darren O' Donoghue and Rourkey could be sure to get into a night Club without being asked for i.d., while Donough and Jason would be lucky to escape.

“Mol an oige agus tiocfaidh si”

Darren Crowley had a fine game on the wing and Kanturk must be sick of the sight of Jason Hickey at this stage as he was back to his very best, and certainly loves that Coachford pitch.

Darren O' Donoghue was the steadying influence for the full-forward line where Jason McCarthy was a real handful and young Mark Sugrue again underlined his great potential.

Ronan Crowley, Niall O' Rourke and Vincent Goggin all acquitted themselves very well with Ronan adding his trademark point from a sideline cut, and two other points to his goal.

Well done to Teddy McCarthy, Padraig Crowley and Paddy Cahalane, their hard work is bearing fruit.

Team: S. Murphy, J. Burke, D.Ryan, P. Murphy, G. O' Riordan (0.01), D. Lucey, E.O' Donovan, J. O' Donovan (0.02), J. Harrington (0.01), D. Crowley (0.05), T.O'Donoghue, J. Hickey (0.04), D.O' Donoghue (0.01), J. McCarthy (1.01), M. Sugrue (1.0).

Subs: R. Crowley (1.03), N. O' Rourke,V. Goggin



Provisional fixtures :

On Sunday the U21 hurlers are down to play Kilbrttain in the first round of the championship in Enniskeane at 3.30 p.m. Hopefully sanity will prevail with this fixture, and people will be able to watch the second All-Ireland Senior huling semi- final.

On Tuesday August 17th Premier 2 Minor Hurling League away to Castlelyons at 7.30 p.m.
Southern Star - St Brogans - 14th August
Bandon 6-11
Inniscarra 4-07

A much improved second half performance helped St. Brogans overcome Iniscarra in the under 16A hurling league final, which was played in Cloughduv, last Saturday evening.

After exchanging points, in the first fifteen minutes, Iniscarra opened up a lead with two goals in a minute to rock the Bandon lads to their heals. To their credit Bandon fought back well and goals from Daithi O’ Donavan, Michael Cahalane, and Kerry Desmond brought Bandon back into the game.

From then, until the half time whistle, it was a real dog fight but Bandon were just shading it, at the half time break by leading on a score line of 3 - 5 to 2 - 4.

Bandon upped their game considerably after the break with improved performances all over the pitch the backs got to grips with the Iniscarra forwards, while Michael Beecher and James McSweeney took control in the middle of the pitch.

The forwards also showed greater urgency while scoring some lovely points. And when Barry Collins and Daithi O’ Donavan banged in two more goals the game was up for Iniscarra.

To their credit, the Iniscarra lads fought to the end and were rewarded with two goals of their own before the final whistle.

The game was played in excellent spirit, with both teams wanting to play hurling and both were aided in their endeavors by referee Dave McCarthy.

Brogans : M. Ahern, R. Walsh, P. O’Leary, J. O’Donavan, P. O’ Brien, A. O’ Connell, C. Hourihane, M. Beecher, J. McSweeney (Capt), K. Desmond, B. Collins, E. Ryan, D. O’Donavan, M. Cahalane, R. Fogharty.

Subs used : M. McNamara, C. Lynch, J. O’Leary, C. Fogharty, E. Ahern.



St Brogans U10s visited St Marys at home on Thursday night, August 5th and recorded victories in both games played. To make up the numbers both sides added to their pool of players from their U8 teams.



In the U9 game St Brogans showed some excellent team work and awareness of free players, which led to a high score tally. There were a number of crucial defensive clearances by the back line and Brian McSweeney in goal. These were followed by impressive goals by Cian Farrell in the midfield and in the front line a couple of highly entertaining goals from the boot of an U8 addition to the team, Jake Lillis.



In the U10 game the first half was a fairly even contest but St Brogans took control of the second half. The goalkeeper duties were shared by two players worthy of the position, Gavin O’Connell and Jack Calnan. Out field all players worked to the highest level with both Conor Calnan and Harry Lillis playing to a very high standard.



While there isn’t space to individually mention all players from both St Brogans teams it is clear to see with up and coming players like these St Brogans will have many more thrilling matches to come.
Southern Star 7th August
The Intermediate Hurlers championship game against Kanturk is still scheduled for next Monday night in Coachford. Despite some injury worries in the camp, hopes are high for a win and the team has prepared well. We wish Teddy and the lads all the best in their endeavours.

Bandon GAA Club staged a hugely successful Golf Classic on Friday in the beautifully appointed Bandon Golf Club. The time sheet was virtually full and the weather stayed fine, with great food all day provided by Ger Mehigan.

The event was won by the Welcome Inn team featuring Cathal Moloney, his father and former St. Brogan's Chairman Gabriel Moloney and a Newcestown import Dermot Kehily. It is belived that Cathal is undergoing back treatment at the moment from carrying around the other two for eighteen holes, and this despite the fact that the Newcestown man already has free travel.

Plaudits go to the organising Committee of Niall Morrissey, David Crowley, Noel McNamara, Anthony Nyhan, Donnacha Lehane, Mick Kelly, Essie O' Leary, Donough Lucey, and Tomas Nyhan. Joe Crowley, Kathleen Canty and Irene Nyhan did tremendous work on the day and thanks as well to the ball boys.

Bandon G.A.A. Club wishes to thank all the businesses and individuals who contributed to the cost of hiring the course, put in teams, or sponsored tee-boxes.



Bandon 2-09
Eire Og 0-06

The Bandon Minor footballers defeated Eire Og in Ovens in the Premier 2 Minor Football League on a scoreline of 2.09 to 0.06.

They led by 0.06 to 0.03 at half-time and in Philip Crowley they had the games outstanding player with Peter Murphy also prominent was Peter Murphy.

Team: J. Crowley, J. Desmond, P. O' Leary, P. O' Brien, A. Dullea, C. Swanton, C. Gossage, S. Og Murphy, P. Murphy, J. McSweeney (0.02), B. Crowley (0.01), M. McNamara, B. Collins (0.01), P. Crowley (2.05), E. McSweeney.

Subs: G. Crowley, D. Coffey, E. Hetherington, E. O' Mahony.



Pride of place in the Club this week goes to young Michael Cahalane who scored 5.07 in an U16 Hurling League match against Cloughduv.



Mark Sugrue made a welcome appearance as a late substitute on the victorious Cork Minor Football team against Armagh last Sunday in Croke Park. The Cork Minors now go on to meet Galway in the All-ireland semi-final.



Provisional fixtures:

On Monday August 09th Intermediate Hurling Championship versus Kanturk in Coachford at 7.00 p.m.

On Saturday in Bandon at either 2.00 p.m.or 7.00 p.m.the County Junior B Hurling semi-final between Randall Og and Rathpeacon.
Southern Star - St Brogans - 7th August
St Brogans have again had a busy few weeks. The U16s have played in both the hurling and football leagues coming out triumphant in both by a wide margin.

Hurling, St Brogans 6-14, Cloughduv 3-10, and football St Brogans 6-18, Dunmanway 3-4.



The U12 had a hurling league game against Donoughmore which also saw St Brogans recording the win, St Brogans 6-12, Donoughmore 2-1.



However the U10 and U8 teams hosted challenge games against Newcestown on last Friday night and didn’t fair so well. St Brogans had enough U10 players for two teams and therefore all players spent time on the sidelines to make room for all. Even though a win wasn’t recorded there was some great skill shown by the players and some particularly fine goal saves made under pressure.



St Brogans will be holding their Cúl Camp starting on Monday 9th August. The camp runs from 10am to 2.30pm, Mon 9th to Fri 13th Aug, inclusive. Arrive by 9.30am sharp on Monday 9th to complete registration. Please bring, lunch with plenty to drink and of course rain gear just in case. As the new ball wall may be used players should bring their runners also. As always non club players are welcome. The last few places are filling up, so please book your place with Robert on 087 7716141.

Places are €55 for first child, with discounts for second and subsequent children.
Southern Star 31st July
Timoleague 5-11
Bandon 3-12

On Friday night in very poor weather conditions in Timoleague, Bandon and Timoleague served up a cracking Intermediate Hurling League encounter with the home team winning by 3.12 to 5.11.

A very poor ten minute spell before half-time cost Bandon dearly in this game and as they launched their comeback Bandon were the better team for most of the second half. Every ball was contested with great vigour in a very sporting game which should be of great benefit to both teams.

Team: S. Murphy, J. Burke, D. Ryan, J. O' Donovan, N. O' Rourke, D. Lucey, E. O' Donovan, J. Harrington, R. Crowley (0.05), D. Crowley (1.01), T.O' Donoghue, D. O' Donoghue (0.02), R.Payne (0.02), J. McCarthy (1.02), J.Hickey (1.0)

Subs. : G.O' Riordan, V. Goggin



Eire Og 3-14
Bandon 3-11

Also on Friday night in Bandon the Minor hurlers gave a very creditable performance against Eire Og in the Premier 2 Minor Hurling League before losing 3.11 to 3.14.

They lined out without Mark Sugrue and Peter Murphy.

Outstanding were young Michael Cahalane who scored 3.07, Josh Desmond, Philip Crowley and James McSweeney.

Team : James O' Leary, A.O' Connell, P. O' Leary, J. O' Leary, M.Beecher,C.Swanton, S. Hickey, P. Crowley, S. Og Murphy, E. Ryan, J. Crowley, J. McSweeney, D. Coffey, M. Cahalane, J. Desmond.



Bandon 1-13
St Colums 0-13

On Saturday night in the Junior C Hurling championship played in Kealkil, Bandon overcame the home team St. Colums by 1.13 to 0.13.

The team captained by Danny Corcoran contained some real “blasts from the past” (and present) and scored a hard fought win.

Best were Anthony Nyhan and Robert Moloney who top scored with a creditable goal and four points.

Team : C. Collins, E. Sugrue,T. Canniffe, R. Wilmot, I. McCarthy, J. Ahern, K. Lucey, D. Aherne, D. Crowley, R. Moloney (1.04), D. Canniffe (0.02), A. Walsh, A. Nyhan (0.03), P. Long, D. Corcoran

Subs. : S. Hickey (0.01), S. Lynch (0.01), J. O' Connell, A. Coomey, M. Muir.



Well done to Donough Lucey who won a Munster Intermediate Hurling championship medal when Cork beat Waterford on Thursday night. Donough who has been outstanding at centre-back with our own Intermediate team, acquitted himself very well on the night in the Cork half-back line and he can be justifiably proud to bring the second inter-county Munster championship medal to Bandon this summer.



Mark Sugrue lines out with the Cork Minor footballers in their All Ireland quarter- final against Armagh at 12.00 noon on Sunday in Croke Park. As the game is the curtain raiser to the Cork versus Roscommon All-Ireland Senior football quarter- final we would ask as many club supporters as possible to make the trip to Dublin to support Mark.



Erins Own were the inaugural winners of the recently commissioned Sean Crowley Cup for U21 football. The impressive looking Cup was presented to the Cork County Board by the Crowley family and is dedicated to the memory of our late Club President Sean Crowley.



The Club's Golf Classic will take place on Friday July 30th in Bandon Golf Club.



Provisional fixtures:

On Thursday the 29th July U16 Hurling League in Cloughduv versus Cloughduv at 7.30 p.m.

On the 31st July, Saturday U16 Football League v. Dohenys in Dunmanway at 5.30p.m.

On Tuesday August 3rd, premier 2 Minor Football League against Mayfield at 7.30p.m. in Mayfield
Southern Star 24th May
Valley Rovers 1-18
Bandon 1-13

Bandon were very disappointing in their Intermediate Hurling League encounter with Valley Rovers at home on Tuesday night last. They lost the game by 1.13 to 1.18 but it was the concession of needless frees that brought about their downfall as Valleys were unerring from placed balls.

Donough Lucey, Darren Crowley and goal-keeper Stephen Murphy were missing for the game but Roy Payne, and Jason McCarthy in the last quarter were impressive.

The best player on the field however was Eoin O' Donovan throughout the game as he dominated the entire half-back line.

Team : K.Doyle, J. Burke, D. Ryan, J. O' Donovan, M. O' Leary, G. O' Riordan, E. O' Donovan, N. O' Rourke (0.01), R. Crowley (0.06), V. Goggin, T.O' Donoghue, J.Hickey, R.Payne (0.05), J. McCarthy (1.01), D. O' Donoghue, Subs. : P. O' Neill, J. Milner, B. Crowley.

Bandon 2-09
Caheragh 2-07

On Wednesday night the in the Junior B Football League, Bandon overcame Caheragh by 2.09 to 2.07.

Best were Cian O' Mahony, Patrick O' Neill, Chris O' Donoghue and James McSweeney.

Team : J.O' Leary, J. Desmond, N.Connor, P.McCabe, A.Dullea, C. Swanton, E.Jackson, P.O' Neill, C.O' Mahony (0.03), A. Lenihan, C.O' Donoghue (2.03), D. Corcoran, J. McSweeney (0.03), J. Crowley, C. McCarthy



Provisional fixtures:
Intermediate Hurling League on Friday night at 7.30 p.m. in Timoleague against Argideen Rangers.

On Friday night Premier 2 Minor Hurling League in Bandon versus Erins Own at 7.30 p.m.

On Saturday night Junior C Hurling Championship Bandon v. St. Colums in Kealkil at 5.00 p.m.

On the 27th July Premier 2 Minor Football League in Ovens versus Eire Og at 7.30p.m.

On Monday night Junior A Hurling League Bandon v. Argideen Rangers in Timoleague at 7.30 p.m.



The Club's Golf Classic will take place on Friday July 30th in Bandon Golf Club. If you wish to enter a team or sponsor a tee-box contact any Club member.
Southern Star 17th July
Bandon 5-26
St Vincents 1-10

A very accomplished Bandon Premier 2 Minor Hurling team scored an easy championship second round win over St. Vincents's in their second round encounter played in Cloughduv last Wednesday night.

The final score was 5.26 to 1.10.

Given that seven of this panel are u16 and in all twelve of the panel are under age again next year, this looks to be an exceptional team in the making.

There were outstanding performances on the night by Peter Murphy, Mark Sugrue, Shane Hickey and young Michael Cahalane.

Team : James McSweeney, Josh Desmond, Padraig O' Leary, Matthew McNamara, Michael Beecher, Peter Murphy, Colin Swanton, Sean Og Murphy (0.01), Mark Sugrue (1.07), Jamie Crowley (0.03), Philip Crowley, Shane Hickey (1.04), Michael Cahalane (1.09), Aidan Dullea (1.0), Eoin Ryan (1.02).

Subs. : David O' Donovan, Denis Coffey, James O' Leary, Jonathan O' Leary.

This team is being looked after by Denis McCarthy, Paddy Cahalane, and Brian McCarthy.



The Club's Golf Classic will take place on Friday July 30th in Bandon Golf Club. If you wish to enter a team or sponsor a tee-box contact any Club member.
Southern Star 10th July
Kilmeen 0-18
Bandon 1-07

Bandon's adult football tale of woe continued on Saturday with the Junior B team being knocked out of the championship by Kilmeen on a scoreline of 1.07 to 0.18.

John O' connell scored the only goal of the game.



On a brighter big ball note, on Sunday in Killarney, Mark Sugrue became the first Bandon footballer since Michael Lyons in 1987 to win a Munster Minor football medal. Mark lined out at centre-forward on the victorious Cork team that defeated Kerry.

It is worth bearing in mind that Mark is just out of U16 ranks and is Minor next year again. He is also a very accomplished hurler and must be a good bet to be a dual minor in 2011.

As Cork head for the All-Ireland series, Mark is hopefully following in the footsteps of dual minor Robert Wilmot who back in 1971 won an All-Ireland Minor Hurling medal against Kilkenny in his first year as a minor. Twelve months later in the All- Ireland Minor Football Final, Robert gave one of the greatest displays ever by a minor in Croke Park. Playing the game of his life in that Minor final of 1972, Robert already had four Minor provincial medals in his back pocket. His "man of the match" performance inspired Cork to victory against a star studded Tyrone team featuring Frank McGuigan, the father of current stars Brian and Tommy, and the current Tyrone manager the legendary Mickey Harte.



Provisional fixtures over the next week:

Premier 2 Minor Football League against St. Vincents in Cork on Monday July 12th at 7.30 p.m.

Premier 2 Minor Football League against O' Donovan Rossa at home on Thursday July 15th at 7.30 p.m..

An interesting "local derby" in the Intermediate hurling League in Bandon against old rivals Valley Rovers at home on Tuesday July 13th at 7.30 p.m..

On Monday July 12th Bandon stages the Premier 1 Minor Football County Championship encounter between Carbery Rangers and Carrigaline at 7.30 p.m.

The Club's Golf Classic will take place on Friday July 30th in Bandon Golf Club.If you wish to enter a team or sponsor a tee-box contact any Club member.
Southern Star 10th July - St Brogans notes
St Brogans have been busy again this week.

The U16s played a hurling league match at home against Newcestown on Saturday 4th and had a resounding win with a final score of St Brogans 8.11, Newcestown 2.12.

The U10s hosted Carbery Rangers in their football league. Again both clubs were in a position to play two teams to ensure the involvement and enjoyment of all. Both games were full of end to end action with St Brogans ending the evening triumphant. The U10s are in action again this Thursday night, 6pm, at home in a football challenge match against Clonakilty.

The U8s and U6s travelled to Nemo Rangers on Saturday to play the first leg of their Go Games hurling blitz. St Brogans were in the lucky position of being able travel with a full team for each age group unlike some of the other clubs involved. The U8s showed some great skills and determination to come home happy, while the U6s likewise really enjoyed the day and held their own in their games. The remaining legs of the blitz will involve travelling to Mayfield, Ballinhassig and of course a home round.

Training Tuesday nights for U8s, U6s, 6.30pm - 7.45pm and U10s Monday & Thursday, 7.00pm - 8.15pm. All training in the Presentation Convent Secondary School Pitch. New players, girls and boys always welcome.
Southern Star 3rd July
O'Donovan Rossa 2-12
Bandon 2-07

The saga that is Bandon Junior A footballers continues apace.

Without the services of James Walsh and James O'Donovan they were knocked unceremoniously out of the Junior A football championship by another second string, this time Skibereen on a scoreline of 2.07 to 2.12.

At half-time, and turning to play with a very strong wind, Bandon looked the more likely winners with the scoreline at 1.04 to 0.07. Bandon's goal was a cracking effort from Tomas O'Donoghue. The wind however, never won any game yet.

In truth Bandon were rudderless in that second half, and a Skibbereen goal straight after half-time changed the complexion of the entire game.

Time after time we failed to win kick-outs or more importantly the breaking ball around mid-field. Bandon were on the back foot and defending for most of the game and never drove forward with real conviction.

To their credit Bandon slowly recovered and they were back in the driving seat when Mark Sugrue scored a very well worked second goal with about ten minutes remaining. However disaster soon followed when Skibb goaled again and effectively killed the contest.

Minors Mark Sugrue and Peter Murphy were the only players worthy of mention with substitutes Philip Crowley and to a lesser extent, Ronan Crowley also impressing. Robert Moloney in fairness to him worked hard all through.

Team: Pat Prendergast, Gavin O' Riordan, Sean O' Riordan, Peter Murphy, Donough Lucey, Cha Dullea, Eoin O'Donovan, Jason Hickey, Tomas O' Donoghue(1.0), Mark Sugrue (1.04), David Aherne (0.02), Robert Moloney (0.01), Roy Payne, Ronan McCarthy, Darren Crowley.

Subs: Conor Sugrue, Philip Crowley, Ronan Crowley.

The players, and Selectors Denny Aherne and Patrick Calnan will be bitterly disappointed with this performance which brings another season to an abrupt halt.

Best of luck to Mark Sugrue who lines out (hopefully) for the Cork Minor Football team in the Munster Final on Sunday next against Kerry in Killarney.



On Saturday night the great Teddy Buckley celebrated his sixtieth birthday at a specially arranged party in the Pavilion. The fine crowd that attended is testimony to the many friends Teddy has built up in Bandon G.A.A. Club over what is effectively, his entire life-time from the 1960's through to 2010.

The highlight of the evening however was the discovery that Teddy has been keeping two dark murky secrets from us all these years.

Firstly, not only does Teddy sing, secondly and worse still, all these years he is a "closet" Dickie Rock fan. He took over the stage and microphone to belt out Dickie's Eurovision Song Contest entry of 1966 "Come Back To Stay" and if that wasn't enough, just as we were recovering from the first blow, he followed up with "The Candy Store on The Corner." We may be some day able to forgive Teddy for the singing, but it will not be as easy for us to forgive him being a fan of Dickie Rock.

What a fitting conclusion to a great night, and a big well done to Teddy and the party organisers. Teddy's extended family and particularly Michael and Kitty Nyhan want to thank everyone for their support of Teddy on the night.



There was also a good bit of "banter" on Sunday night at the Senior game as well surrounding another good G.A.A. man John O' Donovan, of electrical fame. John, himself had been the "victim" of a surprise birthday party, also held on Saturday night. John does great work for the Club setting up and providing the amplification at matches. Congratulations to John on also reaching his own landmark. We wont divulge his age, out of respect, but needless to say, he would have been well able to sing along to the Dickie Rock songs.



Provisional fixtures over the next week :

Junior B Football Championship against Kilmeen on Saturday July 03rd at 8.00 p.m. in Ahiohill.

Premier 2 Minor Hurling League against Donoughmore on Thursday July 01st away.

Premier 2 Minor Hurling Championship against St. Vincents on Tuesday July 06th in Cloughduv at 7.30 p.m. Best of luck to all involved.

On Monday July 05th Bandon stages the Junior A Hurling Championship encounter between Kilbrittain and Newcestown.

Well done to all who helped out at the Senior Football championship game in Bandon on Sunday evening.

The Club's Golf Classic will take place on Friday July 30th in Bandon Golf Club. If you wish to enter a team or sponsor a tee-box contact any Club member.
Southern Star 26th June
Bandon 3-13
Aghada 0-20

There is a saying attributed to Roy Keane “fail to prepare, prepare to fail” and it was certainly Bandon's intensive preparation for their Intermediate hurling championship win over Aghada that saw them through after extra-time in Ovens on Friday night by 3.13 to 0.20.

Bandon's hurling in the most part was very good, and thankfully in the end they had the required fitness levels to stay with, what is also a Senior football team. Well done to Teddy McCarthy, Padraig Crowley and Paddy Cahalane who played seven u21's in all and fielded a very young team.

This was Bandon's best display in the Intermediate grade for some time, ecpecially given the quality of the opposition.

The highlight of Bandon's performance was undoubtedly the creation of real goal scoring chances, and in all, while three were well taken, Bandon threatened the Aghada goal on numerous occasions. Goal scoring has been our real achilles heel in hurling for some years. Scoring twenty points will win you most games, but scoring 3.13 will win championships.

Donough Lucey has played many very good games for Bandon but at centre-back on Friday night he had his finest hour. He was truly immense throughout on a succession of opponents.

Steven Murphy is the most improved goal-keeper in the Club. The entire full-back line of Joe Burke, the excellent Darren Ryan and James O' Donovan never put a foot wrong.

Gavin O' Riordan and Eoin O' Donovan withstood everything that was thrown at them.

Ronan Crowley had a very good game at mid-field ably assisted by Niall O' Rourke.

In the half-forwards, Darren Crowley may have appeared quieter than usual but he scored five excellent points from play. Beside him Tomas O'Donoghue was a revelation at centre-forward and when this man concentrates on the job on hand he is a serious player in hurling and football. Jason Hickey was very good at wing-forward and took his goal well.

Roy Payne had been going through a poor patch of late and all he needed to ignite his hurling was a goal, he scored two, the second was a real class effort in extra-time and won the match. At full-forward Jason McCarthy showed very well, even when out-numbered, and Darren O' Donoghue continues to defy father time.

All three substitutes contributed handsomely with the ever improving Mark O'Leary really catching the eye.

Team: Stephen Murphy, Joe Burke, Darren Ryan, James O' Donovan, Gavin O' Riordan, Donough Lucey, Eoin O' Donovan,Ronan Crowley (0.04), Niall O' Rourke, Darren Crowley (0.05), Tomas O' Donoghue, Jason Hickey (1.0), Roy Payne (2.01), Jason McCarthy(0.01), Darren O' Donoghue (0.01)

Subs: Mark Sugrue (0.01), Mark O'Leary, Vincent Goggin.



Bandon 2-19
Dohneys 2-16

On Saturday night in Castletown in the Junior A hurling championship Bandon's second string had a great win over Dohenys by 2.19 to 2.13. There was some very good hurling in this game from start to finish and Bandon showed they will not give up their title easily.

Bandon had to be at their best to win this encounter and they showed real character in having to come from behind several times. None of Doheny's first five scores were from inside the Bandon 45m line and points were scored from all angles and distances.

Brian Hurley was the best player on the pitch, closely followed by Cha Dullea. Joe Harrington freed from his Leaving Certificate exertions also had a very good game. "New dad" Kieran Hurley also had his moments.

Up front the "evergreen's" John O'Regan, Donnacha Burke and Niall Geary were a real handful, and James Dullea continues to show what a "class" hurler he is.

Bandon might well not have won the game if Philip Crowley and particularly James Milner, who is recovering from injury, did not make such an impact when introduced in the second half. Trevor Barrett also worked hard.

The half-time score was 0.10 to 1.09 and bandon continued to trail until ten minutes from the end.

Team: John Crowley, Brian Hurley, Cathal Moloney, Kevin Walsh, Kieran Hurley (0.02), Kieran Doyle, Joe Harrington (0.01), David Lehane (0.01), Cha Dullea (0.02), Donnacha Burke (0.01), John O' Regan (1.03), Pat Prendergast, James Dullea (0.05), Niall Geary (1.02), Michael Mehigan.

Subs: Trevor Barrett, Philip Crowley, James Milner (0.02).

Well done to Coach Niall O'Halloran and his hard working back-room team of Joe McCarthy, Brian McCarthy and Niall O' Donovan.



Congratulations to Darren O' Donoghue and his bride Nicola on their recent marriage.

Darren has been a great club-man for Bandon and we were all delighted with his belated return to Intermediate hurling action. Everyone in the Club wishes them a long and happy life together and of course, plenty of off-spring.



On Saturday next a true legend of Bandon G.A.A. Teddy Buckley will celebrate his sixtieth birthday in style. For the older members of the Club, Teddy will always be synonymous with the late great Bill O'Donoghue and the St. Brogans Club. In the 1960's and well into the 1970's, as the "bag man" for Bill, Teddy oversaw an unprecedented era of West Cork and County championship success in all grades and codes.

In latter years since his return to the Club, Teddy has been an ever present feature and is still the mascot for numerous teams.

There is no fixture that Teddy doesn't know about, or have a comment on, especially when Bandon are playing Clon (Teddy's great rivals).

Teddy also acts as a "trouble-shooter" and no player will ever get too big for his boots with Teddy around. He isn't slow telling a fella with notions exactly how low down the pecking order he really is in the overall scheme of things.

Teddy from everyone in Bandon G.A.A. Club and St. Brogans have a great day and with God's help you will still be involved in the Club when your seventieth birthday comes around.



From the Intermediate hurling fields to the County / Munster Senior Road Bowling Final, the Club wishes the multi-talented James O'Donovan the very best as he bids to follow in his father Declan's footsteps. James is only in his first year as a Senior and if he brings the same courage, class and commitment to the bowling roads as he does to the GAA pitches, he need have no fear. "Go n-eiri an bothar leat".

Help will be needed for the Carbery Rangers versus Na Piarsaigh Senior Football championship game which is fixed for Bandon at 7.00 p.m on Sunday night.



Provisional fixtures over the next week :

Junior A football championship against O Donovan Rossa on Sunday June 27th at 2.30 p.m. in Rossmore.

Premier 2 Minor Hurling League against Mayfield on Monday June 28th at 6.30 p.m. in Bandon.


Southern Star 5th June - St Brogans Reports
St Brogans U10 and U8 teams have had a full couple of weeks.

Both the U10 and the U8 teams played Clonakilty in football on Tuesday last, 1st June. With high numbers in both age groups it was decided that the U10 team would travel to Clonakilty with the U8 team hosting Clonakilty at home.

In Clonakilty the U10s put on a mighty show with over 30 children and their parents making the trip for the 6pm kick off. With the high numbers in attendance both sides were able to field two 10 aside teams with substitutes. All four teams played with determination and skill for the full four quarters with St Brogans ending the match in high spirits.

With a 6.30pm kick off the U8s and nursery group were hosting their visitors in Bandon. St Brogans were testing out the skills they have been learning during both the winter indoor and recent outdoor training sessions. For a lot of the six and seven year olds in the group these would have been their first matches against another club so great fun was had by all concerned. Following on from the great success in Clonakilty the U10 team moved on and again travelled this time to Dunmanway on Thursday night, 3rd June to get some practice in for the upcoming hurling league. It was clear to see the recent initiative where Junior and Intermediate team players from Bandon holding extra weekly coaching sessions with the team was paying off. Dunmanway proved worthy opponents but again the St Brogans team kept their focus on task at hand and showed an every growing level of skill and team spirit to again come home in a confident mood.

All this was again followed up by a Saturday Session with the adult players but this time in football. All the adult players involved on Saturday mornings must be thanked for taking on this new involvement with the Underage groups as it is great for the up and coming players to get one-to-one time with the present players.

On Saturday next, June 12th the U10s will again be travelling this time to Rosscarbery for a football match at 11am.

Training Tuesday nights for U8s, 6.30pm - 7.45pm and U10s Monday & Thursday, 7.00pm - 8.15pm. All training in the Presentation Convent Secondary School Pitch. New players always welcome.
Southern Star 19th June
All roads lead to Ballincollig this Friday night when Bandon make their Intermediate hurling seasonal championship debut against Aghada. The game is fixed for 8.00 p.m.

The team which looks like having several new faces, has prepared well under Teddy McCarthy, Padraig Crowley and Paddy Cahalane and we wish them well.



On Saturday night in Castletownkennigh the Junior A hurlers put their historic West Cork championship of 2009 on the line when they play Dohenys in the first round. This game is also fixed for 8.00 p.m.

Niall O’ Halloran has continued his great work as Coach of this team along with Joe McCarthy, Niall O’Donovan, and Brian McCarthy and we also wish them all the best as they begin their quest for two in a row.



The Junior A footballers play St. Colums in the league on Monday night next at 8.00 p.m.at home in Bandon.
Southern Star 5th June
Bandon 2-19
St Vincents 2-09

Bandon Intermediate hurlers scored a good win over St. Vincents at home in the League on Saturday night by 2.19 to 2.09.

Best were Jason Hickey, Ronan Crowley, Vincent Goggin and Donough Lucey

Team : S. Murphy, J. Burke, D. Ryan, M. O' Leary, G. O' Riordan, D. Lucey, V. Goggin, R. Crowley, J. McCarthy,D. O' Donoghue,N. O' Rourke, R. Payne, J. Milner, B. Crowley, J. Hickey

Subs. : N. Geary, J. Crowley.



Bandon 0-16
St Colums 0-09

On Tuesday night in the Junior A hurling League at home Bandon were well over St. Colums on a final scoreline of 0.16 to 0.09.

Bandon laid the foundations for the result in the first half when they led at half-time by 0.11 to 0.03.

John Crowley had a great game here, also James Dullea, James Milner and Vincent Goggin

Team : J. Crowley, R. Wilmot, C. Dullea, K. Walsh, I. McCarthy,D. Ryan,T. Canniffe,V. Goggin (0.03), M. O' Leary, P. Prendergast (0.01), J. O' Regan, J. Milner (0.02), J. Dullea (0.08), D. Burke (0.02), M. Mehigan,

Subs. : C. Moloney, A. Walsh, T. O' Donoghue, A. Coomey, P. Long



Kilbrittain 3-13
Bandon 1-14

In the non-exam Minor Hurling League on Sunday night away, Bandon lost narrowly to Kilbrittain on a scoreline of 1.14 to 3.13.

Mark Sugrue continued his rich vein of form and starred in this game scoring 0.10 points.

Team : J. O' Leary, M. Ahern, P. O' Leary, J. O' Leary, A. Dullea, P. Murphy, S. Hickey, M. McNamara, M. Sugrue (0.10 ), J. McSweeney (0.01), J. Crowley, E. Ryan (0.01), D. O' Donovan (1.01), M. Cahalane (0.01), D. Coffey.



Good to see Darren Crowley resume his Inter County hurling career with the victorious Cork Intermediate team against Tipperary last Sunday in Pairc Ui Chaoimh.



There was a fine turnout in the new ball alley last Saturday for Paudie Butler's hurling demonstration. He kept the large number of players enthralled with his no nonsense coaching style. He turned out to be a good tipster as well as he predicted a Cork win on the Sunday given Tipperary's poor record in Pairc Ui Chaoimh.



The next weeks fixtures are provisionally :

U14 Football League on Thursday night at 7.30 p.m. in Bandon against Bantry

Junior A Hurling League on Saturday night at 8.00 p.m. in Enniskeane against St. Mary's.

Junior B Hurling League on Saturday night at at 6.30 p.m. in Bandon against St. Oliver Plunketts.

Non-exam Minor Hurling League v.s Brian Dillons on Saturday night at 7.30 p.m.in Cork.

Saturday night in Conna in the Intermediate Hurling League at 8.00 p.m. against St. Catherines.

Non-exam Minor Football League at home to Mallow on Tuesday night at 7.30 p.m.

Tuesday June 08th in the Intermediate Hurling League in the Glen field at 8.00 p.m. against Glen Rovers.
Southern Star 29th May
Clonakilty 2-13
Bandon 0-12

Before writing Bandon out of this years Junior A football championship having been beaten by 0.12 to 2.13, we would all do well to remember that three years ago it took this team three games to get over Barryroe, and they went on to win the West Cork Junior A football championship.

Make no mistake Friday nights defeat to Clonakilty was a set-back, but it should be seen as no more than that. There were however enough signs for most of the second-half to cling to the belief that, if we get our act together, Bandon will still be very formidable opposition for any team in this championship.

The team that wins this West Cork Junior A championship will need to match the pace and intensity of Clonakilty's play last Friday night. In a round of upsets it is fair to say Clonakilty are now the bench-mark going into the next rounds. The road ahead is difficult for Bandon, but it is certainly nowhere near impossible.

The half-time score was 0.07 to 2.08 and Bandon were on the back foot for most of that first half.

Bandon's overall display was clouded by having to spend the evening chasing the two poorly conceded early goals to a rampant Clonakilty.

There were some outstanding scores taken by both teams over the sixty minutes here and the main difference at the end was the leadership shown by Clon's outsatanding former senior players. Overall, this is a young team fielded by Bandon and they should learn more about thier shortcomings, from this experience, than if they had won.

As Pat Spillane would say “All-Ireland medals were never given out in May yet” and there is a long way to go between now and the final of this competition in September. Notwithstanding that if Clonakilty can keep this squad together, they will certainly be the team to beat, but this young Bandon team can still have a very big say in this championship.

David Ahern at centre-forward was Bandon's best player overall with Jason Hickey also prominent.

Team: Pat Prendergast, Gavin O' Riordan, James Walsh, Peter Murphy, Donough Lucey, Cha Dullea, David Crowley, Tom O' Donoghue, Jason Hickey, Roy Payne (0.02), David Ahern (0.07), Eoin O' Donovan (0.01), Brian Crowley, Darren Crowley (0.01), Fionn O' Leary

Subs: Mark Sugrue (0.01), James O'Donovan, Ronan McCarthy.



Randal Og 3-08
Bandon 1-08

On Saturday night in Castletownkenneigh the Junior B footballers suffered a similar fate against Randal Og on a scoreline of 1.08 to 3.08.

Team: J. Donegan, N Connor, P. O' Neill, M. Muir, S. O' Riordan, D.Ryan, K. Walsh, J. Milner, V. Goggin, J. Crowley, R. Moloney, C. O' Mahony, T. Barrett, J. Burke, D. Corcoran.

Subs: R. Crowley, J. O' Connell, J. McCarthy.



Bandon 3-10
Valley Rovers 4-06

In a very entertaining non-exam Minor Hurling League on Sunday night at home, Bandon just got over the line against Valley Rovers on a scoreline of 3.10 to 4.06.

Eoin Ryan scored a sweet winning point in time added on after Bandon had led for most of the match.

Team: J. O'Leary, A. Dullea, P. O'Leary, J. O'Leary, A. O'Connell, P. Murphy, M. McNamara, M. Sugrue (1.07 ), J. McSweeney, J. Crowley (0.01), E. Ryan (0.01), D. O'Donovan, M. Cahalane (1.01), S. Hickey ( 1.0 )

Subs: E. Hetherington.



The next weeks fixtures are provisionally:

U14 Football League on Thursday night at 8.00 p.m. in Bandon against Newcestown.

Junior A Football League on Friday night at 8.15 p.m. in Durrus against Muintir Bhaire.

Junior B Football League on Saturday night at 8.00 p.m. in Bandon against Caheragh.

Non-exam Minor Hurling League v.s Kilbrittain on Saturday night at 7.30 p.m.in Kilbrittain.

Non-exam Minor Football League away in Dromtarriffe on Tuesday night May 25th at 7.30 p.m.

Thursday June 3rd in the Intermediate Hurling League in Conna at 8.00 p.m. against St. Catherines.

On Saturday in our new “state of the art” ball alley the Club welcomes back the G.A.A.'s National hurling Coordinator Paudie Butler. He will give a coaching demonstration of how to get the best use of the new facility.

A big well done to all involved in getting this super facility up and running.


White in inspirational form as Randals make progress - Evening Echo 24-05-10 - Derry Farr
Randal Og 3-08
Bandon 1-08

WHEN Gearoid White registered two goals in as many minutes it appeared as if the Randals would romp home in the closing quarter of this Saturday evening Maritime Hotel, Bantry, sponsored South West JBFC opening round game at Castletownkenneigh.

Romp they most certainly did not, as this third Bandon squad refused to give in and helped by a goal from the, vastly experienced John O'Connell, three minutes from the end, the losers were back within two points of their rivals.

When needed most, converted defender Patrick O'Donovan came to Randals' rescue with their third goal which finally quelled Bandon's late challenge.

By then the winners should have been out of sight but 10 first-half wides and some sterling Bandon defending left them vulnerable until the late happenings.

Not once were Bandon, with central attackers Joe Burke and Rob Mo-loney doing well despite living on crumbs, off target as they trailed by just two points at the end of an opening half dominated by the winners.

When Rob Moloney resumed activities by driving over his third point, Bandon were just one behind before the exciting football talent that is Gearoid White, finally shook off his markers to conjure up two quick goals.

The first arrived in the 39th minute when he reacted fastest to punch to the net from a Patrick Crowley delivery that had the loser's defence in trouble.

Then a minute later, the elusive corner-forward took a pass from the effective Fergal Kelly before cutting in to shoot to the net from an acute angle.

Now seven points to the good, Randals looked to be safe but a goal-bound Cian O'Mahony effort, brilliantly save by veteran Randal's 'keeper Sean Holland, signalled a Bandon recovery.

With substitutes Ronan Crowley and the experienced John O'Connell now operating up front the losers finally found their rhythm and a 57th minute goal by O'Connell left the result in the balance until Patrick O'Donovan secured the crucial third Randal goal on the call of time.

Scorers for Randal Og: G White 2-1, M Hurley 0-5 (0-4frees), P O'Donovan 1-0, G Lynch, F Kelly, 0-1 each.

Bandon: R Moloney 0-5 (0-4 frees), J O'Connell 1-1, J Burke, J Milner 0-1 each.

RANDAL OG: S Holland; D O'Brien, S Patterson, P White; B O'Mahony, C Patterson, D O'Mahony; J Collins, D O'Regan; P Crowley, M Hurley, G Lynch; P O'Donovan, f Kelly, G White. Subs: G Daly for D O'Regan.

BANDON: J Donegan; N Connor, P O'Neill, M Muir; S O'Riordan, D Ryan, K Walsh; J Milner, V Goggin; J Crowley, R Moloney, C O'Mahony; T Barrett, J Burke, D Corcoran. Subs: R Crowley for D Corcoran, J O'Connell for J Crowley, J McCarthy for T Barrett, J Crowley for M Muir, T Barrett for V Goggin.

Referee: David White
Southern Star 22nd May
On Friday night the Junior A footballers play their championship opener against Clonakilty. First round games against Senior or Intermediate second teams in the division are proving to be a bit of a “banana skin” for Junior A teams as Castlehaven and Bantry have already claimed big scalps.

Team mentors Denis Ahern and Patrick Calnan will need to have Bandon at their very best to win this very tricky assignment.



Bandon 2-12
Glanmire 1-12

In the non-exam Minor Football League, Bandon scored a fine win at home over Glanmire by 2.12 to 1.12. Bandon were cruising at half-time leading 1.07 to 0.02.

Best were Michael Cahalane, Peter Murphy, Colin Swanton and James McSweeney.

Team: J. O' Leary, J. Desmond, P. O' Leary, D. Coffey, A. Dullea, C. Swanton, P. O' Brien, P. Murphy (1.01), J. McSweeney (0.02), J. Crowley, M. Cahalane (1.02), E. Ryan (0.02), B. Collins (0.02), E. Hetherington, E. McSweeney (0.02)

Subs. ; P. McCabe, C. Lynch, D. O' Donovan, G. Crowley



Ballinhassig 1-18
Bandon 1-16

In the non-exam Minor Hurling League on Saturday night, Bandon fell just short against Ballinhassig on a scoreline of 1.16 to 1.18. In a fine game of hurling Bandon trailed at half-time by 0.09 to 1.07.

Mark Sugrue top scored for Bandon with 1.11 with Jamie Crowley also prominent.

Team : J. O' Leary, A. O' Connell, P. O' Leary, J. O' Leary, M. Beecher, P. Murphy, M. McNamara, M. Sugrue (1.11 ), J. McSweeney, J. Crowley (0.03), M. Cahalane (0.01), E. Ryan (0.01), D. O' Donovan, A. Dullea, J. Desmond, E. McSweeney (0.02)

Subs. ; E. Hetherington, C. Lynch, M. Ahern, D. Coffey



Mark Sugrue made a very promising debut for the Cork minor footballers on Wednesday night last in Thurles against Tipperary, in the Munster semi-final. Mark scored 1.02 from play, gave the scoring pass for Cork's second goal, and contributed handsomely to Cork's half-time score of 2.07. Hopefully he has played his way onto the team for the Munster final against Kerry.

A big well done to the fine contingent of Bandon people who travelled to the game to support Mark.

For those anxious to see highlights of that game, just go to the TG4 web-site and click on the Monday May 18th G.A.A. highlights of the week.



The next weeks fixtures are provisionally :

Junior A Football Championship on Friday night at at 8.00 p.m. in Timoleague against Clonakilty.

U14 Hurling League on Friday night at 8.00 p.m. in Bandon against Aghabullogue.

Junior B Football Championship on Saturday night at at 7.30 p.m. in Bandon against Randall Og.

Junior A Hurling League on Sunday afternoon at at 3.30 p.m. in Bandon against Barryroe.

Non-exam Minor Hurling League in Bandon on Sunday night at 7.30 p.m.against Valley Rovers.

Non-exam Minor Football League away in Dromtarriffe on Tuesday night May 25th at 7.30 p.m.

Junior A Hurling League on Tuesday night at 7.45 p.m. in Bandon against St. Colums.
New Playing Rules
Football Only
  1. Handpass - If a player handpasses the ball using the open hand, there must be a definite underhand striking action.
  2. Penalty Kicks - All penalty kicks will now be taken from 11 metres out.
  3. Kick Outs - All kick outs will now be from the 13 metre line.
  4. Sideline kicks - Line balls must be kicked from outside the boundary line.
  5. Illegal Charge - It is illegal for a charge to be made on a player kicking the ball.
  6. Definition of bounce - The redefinition of the bounce has the effect that the "Basketball Type", bounce, per se, is not a foul.
Hurling only
  1. Puck Outs - The penalty for taking a puck-out from outside the small rectangle is changed from the award of a 65m free to the opposition to a throw in the ball on the defenders' 20m line.
  2. Handpass - The ball must be released and struck with a definite striking action of the hand.
  3. Penalties - Both attackers and defenders must remain outside the 20m line and the arc until the ball is struck from a penalty and the three defenders on the line must not move off the line until the ball is struck.
Both Hurling and Football
  1. Restarting Play - If play is stopped by the referee to enable a seriously injured player to be treated, play will now resume with a free to the team that had possession. However it will not be permitted to score from such a free (if neither team is "in possession", play shall re-start with a throw in).
  2. Throw ins - when the play is being restarted by a throw-in, this must take place a minimum of 13 metres from the sideline.
  3. Advantage - A referee will now signal that advantage is being played by raising his arm.
  4. Extra Time - Extra time consists of 10 minutes per half only. The provision for two additional periods of 5 minutes per half has been removed.
  5. Boundary Lines - The penalty for a player deliberately going outside the boundary lines of the pitch to gain an advantage has changed from a caution to a free.
  6. Charge - A charge is now defined as "shoulder to shoulder" rather than "side to side".


Further details check out www.gaacork.ie


Southern Star 15th May
St. Brogans had a hugely successful Open day on Sunday for La na gClub.

An under age blitz was held on the main pitch with numerous other games and activities keeping the kids busy, overseen by our U16 players.

Player registrations and a Club shop were busy all afternoon in the main hall.

Special plaudits to our amateur Chef's John Lynch and Sean O' Donoghue who manned the barbecue all afternoon.

Medals were presented by Carbery Senior footballer James O' Donovan and special presentations were made to the numerous players who represented Cork over the last year Michael Beecher and James McSweeney U15 hurling, Michael Cahalane U14 hurling and football. Barry Collins and Matthew McNamara for U15 football, Mark Sugrue U16 hurling and football. Thankfully the list gets longer every year.

A big well done to all involved especially those who did all the background work and the caterers.

Brogan's own, Robert O' Mahony was the genial master of ceremonies for the day and he ensured everything went off like clockwork.



Almost on queue, Mark Sugrue has been selected at centre-forward on the Cork minor football team to play Tipperary in Thurles on Wednesday night. Mark, who is under-age again next year, will have played before this is printed and we wish him well.



The Club would like to make an appeal to employers or potential employers in the Bandon area. The Club is on the lookout for seasonal work for our Student players. Summer work is essential to ensure that particularly our young players are not forced to go abroad looking for work.

If you have a vacancy, or know of work available please contact any Club Officer or a team Selector.



The next weeks fixtures are provisionally :

Non-exam Minor Hurling League in Bandon on Saturday night at 7.30 p.m. (weather permitting) against Ballinhassig.
Cork are made to work for final spot - John Horgan, Evening Echo 13th May
Cork 2-12
Tipperary 2-09

Cork minor footballers certainly don't believe in making life easy for themselves.

They achieved their objective of reaching this year's provincial final against Kerry and their performance was an improvement on their opening night victory over Clare but this semi-final win over Tipperary in Semple Stadium was achieved with a lot of unnecessary difficulty, particularly in the second half.

Approaching half-time Cork were coasting towards the final, leading by 11 points, 2-7 to 0-2 and, despite conceding an injury-time goal to the Premier County boys, they looked to be in a hugely advantageous position going to the dressing-room.

That opening half performance was a vast improvement on their visit to Cusack Park and it was very much a case of the personnel and positional changes that the manage-ment had made yielding the required dividend. Tipp maybe should have been closer at that juncture but a few missed frees and a good goal chance squandered as well left them with a mountain to climb in the closing half hour.

And, amazingly, they nearly scaled that mountain, seizing the initiative when they resumed and put their dominant first-half opponents to the pin of their collars who had to survive a very nerve-jangling finish.

In the end it was all's well, ending well for Cork but the message will have to be hammered home over the next couple of weeks that a game lasts for an hour, not a half an hour.

Their inability to build on what had been a very positive opening half performance was disconcerting and the fact that in quite a number of areas they were second best in the second half will concern the management going forward and occupy their mindset before the Kingdom come out of the opposite corner in July.

However, being overly critical of the team is perhaps being a trifle unfair because it was their second win on the road and the spread of scoring was much more rewarding this time.

Five of the starting Cork forwards made it onto the scoresheet with newcomers Kevin Hallissey, Mark Sugrue and Shane Duggan all contributing handsomely up front.

Both midfielders scored as well and in that department Damien Ca-halane and John O'Rourke, particularly in the opening half, won quite a lot of ball as well as collecting the breaks.

The visitors led by four points after 12 minutes, Cahalane, Brian Hurley, Sugrue and Alan Cronin all dissecting the sticks.

Billy Hewitt got Tipp on the board in the 13th minute with a pointed free after some previous efforts by Liam Boland had failed to find the target.

Things got better for Cork in the 14th minute when young Sugrue clinically executed a fine goal after being set up by Hallissey.

Tipp squandered a great goal chance a minute later when Shane Leahy's effort was thwarted by David Hanrahan and with three minutes to the break Cork looked home and hosed when Duggan belted in goal number two after good approach work by Cronin and Sugrue.

However, on the stroke of half-time Tipp gave themselves a semblance of hope when Hewitt goaled after Liam McGrath's shot was initially blocked.

However, it was difficult to envisage what transpired when the sides resumed but slowly and surely they reduced Cork's significant advantage.

The team in red were no longer dictating the pace of the game and their midfield dominance was not as pronounced and when McGrath goaled for Tipp in the 40th minute it was game on.

Hewitt pointed almost immedi-ately and the margin was now down to four points and the Cork defence was finding itself under consider-able pressure.

Hallissey had a good goal chance for Cork which went wide of the posts and it became a three-point game when midfielder Donagh Leahy pointed for Tipp.

Hallissey responded with a Cork point but two points on the trot from Hewitt and one from Boland left just two points between the teams entering the game's dying embers.

Anything could have happened at that stage but Cork sub Dan McEoin sealed it with a point deep hi stoppage time.

Tipp had corner-back Paddy Dalton dismissed just before the last whistle for a second yellow-card of-fence but Cork were a very relieved team when that whistle sounded.

For then- first-half return and some of the football they played in that period, Cork just about deserved the victory but the overriding emotion at the end was one of great relief rather than anything else.

Just about enough done on this night but a hell of a lot more hard work ahead before Kerry come calling.

Scorers for Cork: M Sugrue 1-2, S Duggan 1-1, K Haltissey 0-3, B Hurley 0-2f, D Cahalane, J O'Rourke, D McEoin, A Cronin 0-1 each.

Tipperary: B Hewitt 1-4 (0-2f), L McGrath 1-1, L Boland 0-3, D Leahy 0-1.

CORK: D Hanrahan; D Crowley, M O'Shea, D Lester; T Clancy, J Burns, J Wall; D Cahalane, J O'Rourke; K Hallissey, M Sugrue, A Cronin; K Sheehan, S Duggan, B Hurley.

Subs: D Murphy for Crowley (47), S Ryan for M O'Shea (57), D McEoin for Sugrue (58).

TIPPERARY: P Nolan; P Dalton, C O'Sullivan, P O'Meara; B Maher, M O'Sullivan, S Taylor; D Leahy, J O'Callaghan; L McGrath, B Harkin, S Leahy; L Boland, L Treacy, B Hewitt.

Subs: N O'Meara for O'Sullivan (17), B Walsh for Harkin (50th), S Carroll for Treacy (58).

Referee: R Hickey Clare.


Southern Star 8th May
The last week has seen another very busy playing schedule with challenge games being played in all grades.

Thankfully the main pitch is holding up well to all the games and training, guided by Brian McCarthy.



Friday night sees the Club sponsors ODM Financial being honoured at a reception in the Pavilion. The Club is very grateful to ODM for their continued support in these trying financial times. The evening is open to all Club members but especially those who were active on the ground in the hugely successful Development Draw. This is the Clubs way of saying a big thank you to all who helped in the planning of the Draw and those who worked so hard, night after night, selling tickets and ensuring it's ultimate success.



The U21 footballers ran a very successful general knowledge Table Quiz in the Pavilion on Friday night.

Special thanks to Kathleen Canty for all her work on the night with corrections, and to another retired teacher, the genial quiz master Paddy Kehoe who kept everyone entertained. Padraig Murphy's team who were the hot favourites pulled away in the last round to win the event.



Work continues apace on the development side under the watchful eye of Noel McNamara with dramatic improvement in the grass growth of the top pitch and the surrounds of the ball alley almost completed.



Sunday next May 9th is La na gClub and St. Brogans the under age wing are running a blitz through the local Primary schools and they are also having their player Registration and an Open Day to coincide.

Club merchandise will also be on display and can be ordered from the shop.

Medals will also be presented to various successful under age teams.

There will also be some fun and novelty items to make it a great family day out.



This week-ends fixtures are provisionally :

Junior A Football League V. Clann na Gael on Saturday May 8th in Bandon at 2.30 p.m.
Southern Star 1st May
Bandon 3-06
Randal Og 1-01

In another busy week-end of Club activity the Junior A hurlers played Randal Og in Bandon on Saturday night in the League. The final score was 3.06 to 1.01 with bandon also leading at half-time by 2.05 to 1.01.

Team: J. Crowley, I. McCarthy, D. Ryan, R. Wilmot, J. Harrington, K. Doyle, K.Walsh, D. Lehane (0.01), C. Dullea , M. Mehigan (1.0), D. Canniffe, V. Goggin (1.01), J. Dullea (1.02), P. Prendergast (0.01), T. Barrett (0.01)

Subs: D. Crowley, C. Moloney, T. Canniffe

Bandon 0-20
Fr O'Neills 1-11

Next into the fray were the Intermediate hurlers in Ballymacoda where they overcame Fr. O' Neills by 0.20 to 1.11. At half-time Bandon led by 0.10 to 0.07.

Team: J. Crowley, D. Ryan, P. O' Neill, J. Burke, G. O. Riordan (0.02), D. Lucey (0.01), E. O' Donovan, K. Hurley (0.01), N. O' Rourke, V. Goggin, T. O' Donoghue, D. Crowley (0.11), J.McCarthy (0.01), J. Hickey (0.01), D. O' Donoghue (0.02).

Subs: K. Doyle (0.01)

Bandon 5-14
Clann Na Gael 1-08

On Monday night in Bandon the minor footballers had another very good win in their Premier Two league encounter against Clann Na Gael. The final score was 5.14 to 1.08.

All three Cork Minor prospects Peter Murphy, Philip Crowley and Mark Sugrue were outstanding in this game.

Team: J. O' Leary, J. Desmond, J. Crowley, D. Coffey, P. O' Leary, C. Swanton, A. Dullea, P. Murphy (0.01), P. Crowley (1.02), B. Crowley (1.0), M.Cahalane (0.02), E. Ryan (0.01), P. McCabe (0.01), M. Sugrue (1.05), E. McSweeney (2.01).

Subs: E. Hetherington (0.01), D. O' Donovan, C. Lynch.

Best wishes to the highly promising young player Rob Long as he recovers from his unfortunate injury.



Matthew McNamara and Barry Collins were prominent with Carbery's divisional championship winning football team when they beat Muskerry by 1.13 to 1.12



This week-ends fixtures are provisionally :

Junior A Hurling League V. Barryroe has not been finalised and will be played over the next week.

U16 hurling league in Killeagh next Wednesday night May 05th


Southern Star 24th April
Bandon 0-18
Carrigaline 2-12

Despite conceding two early goals Bandon Intermediate hurlers fought back to earn a well deserved draw in the league against Carrigaline at home on Thursday night.

The final score was 0.18 to 2.12 with Bandon trailing at one stage in the first half by 0.01 to 2.03.

Best were Jason Hickey and Darren Crowley with minors Philip Crowley and Mark Sugrue who made another very impressive debut.

Team: S. Murphy, P. Crowley, P. O' Neill, J. Burke, K. Hurley, D. Lucey, E. O' Donovan, G. O' Riordan, J. O' Donovan, T.O' Donoghue, N. O' Rourke, R. Payne (0.01), J. McCarthy, D. Crowley (0.11), J. Hickey (0.05)

Subs: M. Sugrue (0.01), V. Goggin



Bandon 3-10
O'Donovan Rossa 0-09

Bandon Junior B footballers beat O' Donovan Rossa's in Skibbereen on Friday night on a scoreline of 3.10 to 0.09.

Team: P. Prendergast, N. Connor, R. McCarthy, J.Harrington, M. Muir, K. Walsh, T.O' Donoghue, G. O' Riordan, P. Murphy, C. O' Mahony, D. Ahern, P. Crowley, T. Barrett, B. Crowley, F. O' Leary

Subs: R. Moloney, D. Corcoran, D. Lehane



Bandon 4-05
Gabriel Rangers 2-11

On Sunday in Ballydehob the Junior A footballers drew a very evenly matched encounter with Gabriel Rangers, final score 4.05 to 2.11.

Team: D. Ryan, K. Walsh, R. McCarthy, J. Walsh, D. Lucey, C. Dullea, David Crowley(1.01), T. O' Donoghue, C. Sugrue, C. O' Mahony, Darren Crowley (1.01), D. Ahern (1.0), E. O ' Donovan (1.0), R. Payne (0.03), B. Crowley, T. Barrett

Subs: P. O' Neill, N. Connor



Chairman Denis Lucey accepted a Special Achievement Award on behalf of the Club at the Opinion, Bandon Credit Union sponsored annual Awards ceremony on Friday night. The very pleasant, and well attended function was held in the Inchydoney Island Lodge and Spa. The award was presented in recognition of Bandon's outstanding on-field achievements in 2009.



This weeks provisional fixtures :

On Saturday April 24th the Minor hurlers travel to play Killeagh in the Premier 2 league at 7.00 p.m..

Also on Saturday at 7.00 p.m. in Bandon the Junior A hurlers play Randall Og in the league.

On Sunday morning at 11.00 a.m. the U16 hurlers play Ballincollig away in the A hurling league.

In Ballymacoda on Sunday at 3.00 p.m the Intermediate hurlers play Fr. O' Neill's away in the league.

On Monday evening at 7.00 p.m. the minor A footballers play Clann na Gael in the Premier 2 Minor football league.

The U21 footballers are running a General Knowledge table quiz on Friday April 30th in the Pavilion. Anyone interested in putting in a team contact any of the panel.
Southern Star 17th April
Bandon 3-14
O'Donovan Rossa 1-07

Are Bandon leaving the best wine until last, with regard to talent coming through, as the Club bids to keep tabs on West Cork's elite in minor and U21 football?

Young guns Padraig O' Leary, Matthew McNamara, Michael Cahalane, Barry Collins, James McSweeney and Eoin Ryan are beginning now to make their mark at minor level. All are very talented (dual) players with very bright futures.

On Friday night last Bandon overcame Skibbereen in the first round of the Premier 2 Minor football championship played in Kilbrittain.

The final score was 3.14 to 1.07.

Best on the day were Mark Sugrue, Peter Murphy and Philip Crowley, with Michael Cahalane and Barry Collins contributing 3.06 between them.

Team: J. Crowley, J. Desmond, P. Murphy, P. O' Leary, E. O'Mahony, C. Swanton, A. Dullea, B. Crowley, M. Sugrue (0.02), M. McNamara, M. Cahalane (1.04), J. McSweeney, E. Ryan, P. Crowley (0.05), B. Collins (2.02)

Subs: P. McCabe, E.Hetherington, E. McSweeney, D. Coffey

Well done to Niall Connor and James Milner for their continuing hard work with these lads and hopefully they will have a long and fruitful year.



Bandon 4-14
Ballinascarthy 2-05

Bandon Junior B hurlers continued on their winning way beating Ballinascarty on Sunday 4.14 to 2.05. The half-time score was 2.08 to 0.03.

Good to see U21 player Rob Wilmot back in action in this game after his injury lay-off.

Team: C.Collins, I. McCarthy, C. Moloney, M. Muir, R.Wilmot, T. Canniffe, E. Sugrue, M. O' Leary (0.01), David Crowley (0.02), D. Corcoran, D. Canniffe (0.03), D. Crowley, P. Long (0.02), N. Geary (4.02), T. Barrett (0.02).

Subs: A. Lenihan (0.02), A. Coomey, Joe McCarthy



Bandon 6-13
Clann na Gael 1-07

Also on Sunday the Junior B footballers had a well merited win over Clann na Gael.

The final score was 6.13 to 1.07.

Team: P. Prendergast, J.Harrington, R. McCarthy, N. Connor, K. Walsh, P. O' Neill, C. O' Mahony, C. Sugrue, G. O' Riordan, J. Crowley, T. O' Donoghue, P. Crowley, F. O' Leary, B. Crowley, T. Barrett.

Subs: D. Corcoran, David Crowley.



Bandon 5-12
Fr. O' Neills 4-12

On Monday night in Ballymacoda the minor hurlers had a great 5.12 to 4.12 win over Fr. O' Neills in the Premier 2 Minor League.

Mark Sugrue was outstanding as an understrength Bandon recorded a fine win.

Team: J. O' Leary, A. O' Connell, R. Long, J.O' Leary, P.O' Leary, P. Murphy (0.02), C.Swanton, M. Sugrue, J. McSweeney, S. Hickey, M. Cahalane, E. Ryan , M.Cahalane (2.0), J. Crowley (0.01), D.O' Donovan (1.0), A. Dullea, D. Coffey.



Tomas Bambury who has given great service to the Club, finally “tied the knot” last week-end marrying Ann O' Driscoll from neighbouring Newcestown. The bride looked resplendant in her “lily white” bridal gown and this contributed greatly to making all the Bandonians feel at home and more relaxed in her Parish Church. We all wish them a long and happy life together and given the strong G.A.A.“blood-lines” on both sides, St. Brogans will be monitoring “progress” with interest.



This weeks provisional fixtures :

The Intermediate hurlers play Carrigaline in Bandon at 7.00 p.m. on this Thursday evening.

The Junior B footballers play O' Donovan Rossa away in Skibbereen at 7.30 p.m.on Friday evening in the league.

The Junior A footballers play Gabriel Rangers away in Ballydehob at 3.00 p.m.on Sunday in the league.

Also on Sunday the U16 hurlers play Eire Og at home at 2.00p.m.

On Thursday April 22nd the Minor footballers play St. Vincents away in the Premier 2 league.

The U21 footballers are running a General Knowledge table quiz on Friday April 30th in the Pavilion. Anyone interested in putting in a team contact any of the panel.
Southern Star 10th April
Castlehaven 2-20
Bandon 2-13

For Bandon U21 footballers to win their West Cork semi-final meeting with Castlehaven in Rosscarbery last Saturday they would have had to up their quarter-final level of performance significantly.In hindsight, unfortunately they didn’t manage to do that. The final score was 2.13 to 2.20 in a very good game of football that went to extra time.

Bandon could possibly have won the game in ordinary time but over all Castlehaven were marginally stronger and more consistent.

Nothing went right for Bandon in the first half and they struggled to win primary possession. Lady luck didn't shine on them either as they struck the crossbar and were denied what seemed to everyone present, a blatant penalty. Scores from either of these could have “turned the tide” but to top it all Castlehaven were allowed what looked suspiciously like a “square goal” at the other end.

You need these breaks against a team as good as Castlehaven and Bandon didn't get them. Credit to Bandon however for manfully staying in touch despite these setbacks. They were also having to contend with their opponents having easily the two best players on view.

Similar to the Ross game Bandon did however put in a storming second half performance against the strong wind having trailed at half-time by six points 0.06 to 2.06. They completely dominated possession for most of that second half but missed too many chances to put real daylight between the teams.

Goals from young Mark Sugrue and Trevor Barrett had their opponents reeling and had Bandon taken their numerous scoring chances at this stage, the result would surely have been different.

Bandon drew level with a superb free from the very impressive Mark Sugrue right at the death. An U16 player last year this young man has genuine pace and is a tremendous prospect.

Best on the day were Joe Harrington, Adam Tobin, Mark O’ Leary, Philip Crowley and Roy Payne.

Team: J. Donegan, A. Tobin, P. Murphy, M.O’ Leary, J. Harrington, D. Ryan (Capt) (0.01), C.O’ Mahony, J. McCarthy (0.01), D. Crowley, R. Payne (0.05), M. Minihane, R. Crowley , F.O' Leary, T. Barrett (1.01), P. Crowley (0.04).

Subs. : M.Sugrue (1.01), J.Crowley, M.Muir

Well done to the lads involved, and to Colm Ahern and John Wilmot for all their hard work. Despite the inclement weather since January, the panel managed to play a dozen games and prepared as well as possible.



Bandon 1-12
Clonakilty 1-05

Bandon Junior A hurlers continued on their winning way beating Clonakilty away last Wednesday night 1.12 to 1.05.

Brian Hurley sustained a nasty hand injury in that game and we wish him a speedy recovery from this unfortunate set-back.

Team: J.Crowley, B.Hurley, C.Moloney, E.Sugrue, K.Walsh, K.Doyle, T.Canniffe, D.Lehane (0.02), V.Goggin, T.O' Donoghue, N.O' Rourke, D. Burke, J. O' Regan, P Prendergast, J.Dullea.

Subs: N. Geary, M.Mehigan, D. Canniffe, D. Corcoran



Bandon 2-07
Kilbrittain 0-09

The Junior B hurlers scored a fine win over Kilbrittain on Sunday morning in Bandon in the league 2.07 to 0.09.

David Lehane top scored with 2.03 from mid-field.

Team: C.Collins, I. McCarthy, C. Moloney, A.O' Donnell, Denis Crowley, T. Canniffe, S. Murphy, D.Lehane (2.03), M. Mehigan, P. Murphy, T O' Donoghue (0.03), D. Corcoran, D. Canniffe (0.01), P. Long, A. Coomey

Subs.: David Crowley



This weeks provisional fixtures:

The Junior B hurlers play Ballinascarthy away in Bal. in the league at 11.30 a.m. on Sunday morning.

The Junior B footballers play Clann na Gael in Bandon 5.00 p.m.on Saturday evening in the league.

The U16 fotballers play Blarney away in the league at 11.30 a.m. on Sunday morning.

The minor hurlers play Fr. O' Neills in the Premier 2 league on Monday April 12th in Ballymacoda.

The U21 footballers are running a General Knowledge table quiz on Friday April 30th in the Pavilion. Anyone interested in putting in a team contact any of the panel.
Southern Star 3rd April
Bandon 3-06
Carbery Rangers 0-09

At half-time in last Sunday's West Cork U21 football quarter-final against Carbery Rangers, Bandon supporters would be forgiven for asking how much would a far more committed and sharper Ross side win by?

Ross were full value for their five point half-time lead of 0.03 to 0.08 and in the last ten minutes of the first-half they were totally dominant all over the pitch.

Ross were still five points up ten minutes into the second half. By this time however Bandon had begun to really dominate the middle third of the pitch, but had only one point, and five wides to show for their efforts.

The key to Bandon's second half recovery was their ability to win primary possession all over the field and two well worked goals from Roy Payne and Jason McCarthy turned the game on it's head.

Fionn O' Leary added a third just before the final whistle, but in truth the first two goals were hammer blows and Ross never recovered from them.

The final score was 3.06 to 0.09.

Young Mark Sugrue, a second-half substitute, can take much of the credit for the turn-around in Bandon's display as he tormented the Carbery Rangers back-line with his great pace and ball carrying ability. The equally young Jamie Crowley also played very well when he came on.

Another minor Peter Murphy anchored the back line very well at centre-back. Mike Minihane and David Crowley dominated mid-field in that crucial second half with Jack Donegan , Darren Ryan, Jason McCarthy (before his unlucky second yellow card), Joe Harrington, Roy Payne, Ronan Crowley and Fionn O' Leary all very prominent.

Bandon will however, certainly need to raise the performance levels by a couple of notches next week-end when they face old rivals Castlehaven in the semi-final.

A repeat of last Sunday's first-half performance will not do, however sixty minutes like their second half against Ross, and you never know.

Team: J. Donegan, A. Tobin, D. Ryan (Capt), M. Muir, J. Harrington, P. Murphy, M. O' Leary, J. McCarthy (1.0), D. Crowley, R. Payne (1.03), M. Minihane, R. Crowley (0.01), F.O' Leary ( 1.0 ), T. Barrett, P. Crowley

Subs: M.Sugrue (0.01), J.Crowley (0.01).



Bandon 2-14
Dohneys 0-09

Bandon Junior A hurlers beat Dohenys by 2.14 to 0.09 under their newly commissioned lights in the Junior A hurling league in Dunmanway. We wish Dohenys well with their enhanced facilities.

The half-time score was 1.10 to 0.03.

James Dullea was outstanding scoring 1.06 with Cathal Moloney, Cha Dullea and David Lehane also prominent. Team: J.Crowley, I. McCarthy, C.Moloney, B. Hurley, K.Walsh, K.Doyle, T.Canniffe, C.Dullea (0.02), D.Lehane (0.02), T.O' Donoghue, N.O' Rourke, D. Burke, J. Dullea, P Prendergast, D. Corcoran

Subs: M.Mehigan, A. Coomey, D. Canniffe, P. Long, A. O' Donnell



Best story of the year so far: An Intermediate hurling Selector noted a player returning to the Junior A hurling fold after a lengthy absence. The player in question was heading for training and to use the rugby parlance “bulked up” quite considerably. He had “wintered vey well” during his extended lay-off. The Intermediate mentor was anxious to give him a few tips and recommended the player start off by doing a good few laps of the main pitch to help whip him into some sort of shape. The player replied quick as flash, that he would have no problem having a go at the laps. He did feel however, that there might be a real problem with Brian Mc. if he were to drive his jeep continously around the pitch.



Club Registrar Anthony Nyhan again reminds players that the deadline for membership is March 31st.

The U21 A West Cork football semi-final has been provisionally fixed for Saturday April 3rd in Rossmore at 4.00 p.m.

The first round of the Premier 2 Minor football championship against O’Donovan Rossa fixed for Sunday April 4th in Rosscarbery will now take place early next week.

The Intermediate hurlers play Fr. O’ Neills in the League in Ballymacoda on Sunday at 3.30 p.m.

The Junior B hurlers play Kilbrittain in Bandon in the league at 11.30 a.m. on Sunday morning..
Southern Star 27th March
Good to see the new ball alley has been erected near the top pitch. What a hugely impressive and imposing structure it is and hopefully it will result in many happy hours for players of all ages.

Facilities such as these are seen as essential to the successful coaching of players and hopefully it will enhance the skill sets of our Club players, young and old.

This represents the final piece of “the jig-saw” in the hugely successful Phase 2 of the Club Development Plan. All now remains is for the playing surface to be finished and another state of the art facility will be in place for the future.



Bandon 2-21
Kilbrittain 1-13

Bandon scored a fine win over near neighbours Kilbrittain in the Intermediate Hurling League, at home on Sunday morning. The final score was 2.21 to 1.13.

Bandon led at half-time by 1.08 to 0.09 and the most pleasing aspect of their performance, apart fromm scoring goals, was that they out scored their opponents by 1.13 to 0.05 in the second-half.

Surely this was the youngest team fielded by Bandon in many years with as many as six U21's in the starting line up, of whom two are still minor.

Darren Crowley played very well scoring 1.10, with minor newcomers, Philip Crowley and Peter Murphy both acquitting themselves very well.

Team: S. Murphy, P. Crowley, P.O’ Neill, P. Murphy, G. O’ Riordan (0.01), D. Lucey, E.O’ Donovan, R. Crowley (1.02), J. O’ Donovan, R.Payne (0.04), D. Crowley (1.10), J. Milner, J.McCarthy (0.03), B. Crowley, J.Hickey (0.01).
Subs.: T.O’ Donoghue, N. Geary



Slieve Rua 4-11
Bandon 1-10

On Sunday afternoon the minor hurlers were well beaten in the Premier 2 Minor hurling league by Slieve Rua (Ballymartle / Belgooly), 1.10 to 4.11.

Mark Sugrue was Bandon’s top scorer at left-half forward with 1.03.

Team: J.O’ Leary, P.O’ Leary R.Long, A. Dullea, C. Swanton, P.Crowley (0.01), M.McNamara, E.Ryan, P Murphy, J.McSweeney (0.01), J. Crowley, M. Sugrue (1.03), D.O’ Donovan, M.Cahalane (0.01), S.Hickey (0.01).
Subs: B. Collins (0.01).



On Sunday next the U21 footballers face Carbery Rangers in the second round of the championship. If this game is anything last years draw and replay then it would be well worth the admission. Carbery Rangers will start as slight favourites having already had a first round game against Skibbereen under their belts. This is the fifth time in six years the Clubs have met in this championship.



This week-ends provisional adult fixtures are:

The West Cork U21 football championship second round has been re-scheduled for Sunday March 28th at 3.30 p.m. Bandon v.s Carbery Rangers, in Ardfield at 3.30 p.m.

Junior A hurling League v.s Clonakilty was fixed for Sunday 28th but will now be played on Monday or Tuesday of next week.

Premier 2 Minor football v.s Clann na Gael was also down for Sunday, but will now also be played next week.

This week-end 26/03 to 28/03 also sees the St. Brogans under-age G.A.A. annual door to door collection. The Club are very grateful to the people of Bandon for their continuing support for this very good cause. Despite the trying economic times, the collection continues to be St. Brogan’s main fund-raiser for the year.
Southern Star 20th March
Just as the evenings thankfully start to lengthen, the playing activity normally cranks up a couple of nothches, and this was a very busy week-end for the Club with four games played. Thankfully all four games resulted in wins.

First into action on a fine crisp Friday night were the Junior B footballers in their opening game of the league under lights, away against Clonakilty. Bandon won on a scoreline of 2.09 to 0.09.

Team : Jamie Crowley, K. Walsh, R. McCarthy, N. Connor, C. O' Mahony, P. O' Neill, M. Muir, C. Cugrue, G. O' Riordan, P. Crowley (0.03), D. Ahern (0.02), R.Moloney (1.02), P. Prendergast, B. Crowley (1.02), D. Corcoran. Subs. : D.Crowley, T. O' Donoghue, J. Harrington.

On Saturday at home the Intermediate hurlers, also on their league debut, they had a good win over near neighbours Newcestown on a score-line of 1.13 to 1.10.

Team : S. Murphy, P. Crowley, K. Doyle, J. Burke, G. O. Riordan, D. Lucey, E. O' Donovan, R. Crowley (0.02), J. O' Donovan, J. Milner, N. O' Rourke, R. Payne, J.McCarthy (1.01), D. Crowley (0.10), J. Hickey.

Subs. : P.Murphy , B. Crowley , C. Dullea.

On Sunday the Minor hurlers had a very good win in their opening Premier Two league encounter against Ballinhassig. The final score was 3.13 to 1.15.

Team : J. O' Leary, A. Dullea, R. Long, J.O' Leary, E.O' Mahony, P. Murphy (0.02), M. McNamara, P. Crowley (0.08), E. Ryan (0.01), M.Cahalane (2.0), J. Crowley, J. McSweeney (0.01), D.O' Donovan (1.0), D. Coffey , S. Hickey (0.01).

Finally at 5.00 p.m. On Sunday the Junior A footballers got back to winning ways in the league, at home against Ardfied. The final score was 1.08 to 0.10.

Team : P. Prendergast, A.Tobin, R.McCarthy, P. Murphy, K. Walsh, C. Dullea, D.Ryan, J.O' Donovan (0.01), D. Lucey (0.01), C. O' Mahony (1.02), D. Ahern, D. Crowley, R. Payne (0.01), B. Crowley (0.01), F. O' Leary (0.02).

Subs. : G. O' Riordan, T. O' Donoghue, J. Crowley

This week-ends fixtures are provisionally:

Junior B football league v. Clann na Gael at 3.00 p.m on Saturday at home.

Intermediate hurling league v. Kilbrittain at 12.00 noon on Sunday.

Premier 2 Minor hurling league Bandon v. Slieve Rua at home on Sunday at 3.00 p.m

Junior A hurling league V. Dohenys at 3.00 p.m on Sunday in Dunmanway (could switch to Tuesday 23/03)
Southern Star 13th March
Club Chairman Denis Lucey welcomed almost two hundred people to the Bandon GAA Club Annual dinner held in the Pavilion on Saturday night.

The Chairman spoke of his delight that the top table was once again lined with trophies. He reminded people that it was the first club dinner to be held in the Pavilion since 1984 the G.A.A. Centenary year and congratulated the organisers, caterers and bar staff.

In what was thankfully a very busy schedule, medals were presented to the 2008 West Cork Minor A hurling champions, the 2009 West Cork and County winning Minor A football team, the West Cork winning Junior A hurling team, and the West Cork U21 hurling winning team.

The biggest ovation of the night however, was reserved for the hugely popular new Club President Liam Deasy who was accompanied by his wife Norma. He spoke of his huge pride in being elected to the position and his wish that the players would carry that pride in the Club onto the pitch in the coming year. Liam also paid tribute to his predecessor the late Sean Crowley.

The P.R.O. spoke of how delighted the Club were to have Liam as their new Vice-President and that he was a truly inspirational figure to Bandon G.A.A. Club with his attitude to life, his good humour, and the fighting spirit he summons every day, as he copes with, and fights his debilitating illness.

Also in attendance were long serving Club Vice-President Patsy O’ Neill and his wife Margaret.

Those sentiments were also echoed by guest of honour Teddy McCarthy, who presented the players with their medals. Goalkeeper Stephen Murphy and Philip Crowley made their own piece of history by being presented with all five available medals. Truly a dual Club.

The Club Patron Fr. Denis O’ Leary wished the Club well for the year and congratulated the executive for their ongoing developments.

Huge thanks go to Jimmy Deasy who organised the event, ably assisted by Essie O’ Leary, Noel McNamara, Kieran Doyle and Kathleen Canty.

A big well done also to caterer Ger Mehigan and to Finbarr and Julie and the bar staff who all contributed to making the event a truly memorable one.
Southern Star 27th February
Kilbrittain 2-14
Bandon 0-17

Goals win games and Bandon Intermediate hurlers concession of two second-half majors, both of the fairly soft variety, gave near neighbours Kilbrittain the upper hand by 0.17 to 2.14 in their Micheal Holland Cup tie played on Saturday in the Charlie Hurley Park.

The main pitch which staged the game was in very good condition after the long winter lay-off and a small crowd watched an entertaining game played in great spirit, in good spring weather conditions.

Bandon missing at least five regulars, dominated most of the tie and looked the more likely winners. Over the hour though they were to create, only one real goal scoring opportunity which wasn't converted.

The half-time score was Bandon 0.09 to Kibrittain's 0.07 with the home side also registering seven wides while dominating possession.

Kilbrittain scored their first goal eleven minutes into the second half when the home side were again well on top. Bandon had regained a two point lead by the twenty eighth minute when, similar to last years championship tie against Kilworth, they were “sucker-punched” with the killer second goal, and managed to concede two more points before the final whistle.

Overall the game was a very useful work-out for Coach Teddy McCarthy and his new Selectors. They could be quite pleased with the performances of Darren Ryan, Kevin Walsh, new centre-back Donough Lucey, Ronan Crowley, Gavin O' Riordan , Jason Hickey and Eoin O' Donovan who only played the first-half but was outstanding.

Team : John Crowley , Joe Burke , Darren Ryan , Kevin Walsh , Eoin O' Donovan ,Donough Lucey , Mark O’ Leary , Gavin O’ Riordan (0.03) , Ronan Crowley (0.06) , Roy Payne (0.02) , Niall O’ Rourke , James Milner (0.01) , Vincent Goggin , Brian Crowley (0.02) , Jason Hickey (0.03).

Subs.: Philip Crowley.



Tickets for the annual dinner which will be held on Saturday March 06th are available from Jimmy Deasy or Club members.

Anyone over 18 years interested in doing a foundation level referees course which takes place on March 04th , 07th, 09th and 11th should contact Don Desmond for details.


Southern Star 20th February
On Saturday February 20th in Bandon the Intermediate hurlers face their first big assignment of the new season when they take on Kilbrittain in the first round of the Micheal Holland Cup. This will be Teddy McCarthy's first official game in charge since he took over coaching duties from Red Crowley.

Tickets for the Annual Dinner on Saturday the 06th March 2010 are available from most Committee members.

Again Club Registrar Anthony Nyhan is stressing that Club membership is due and he is actively targetting the 31st March deadline to have all membership paid.
Southern Star 13th February
The Bandon GAA Club Annual Dinner will take place in the GAA Pavilion on Saturday the 06th March 2010.

Circumstances beyond the Clubs control has resulted in the function being moved from it's traditional base, The Munster Arms Hotel for the first time since the 1980's.

Unfortunately those circumstances were beyond the control of Hotel owner Don O'Sullivan as well, and we wish him and all the other business owners in the town well as they continue to re-vamp their premises after the devastating floods in November.

Refreshments for the evening, which will be a supper format, will be provided by external caterers, and details are currently being finalised.

On the night medals will be presented to the West Cork and County Championship winning Minor A footballers, the Junior A and U21 West Cork winning hurling teams, and also the 2008 West Cork winning Minor A hurling side.



Club Registrar Anthony Nyhan is stressing that Club membership is due and he is actively targetting players and club people in advance of the 31st March deadline.



Club merchandise, track suits, jackets,tee shirts etc. are available through Mick Kelly.



The U21 footballers will be first into the fray as usual in a very difficult West Cork championship second- round tie against the winners of Carbery Rangers and Skibbereen.The game is provisionally fixed for Ardfield on Saturday the 27th March.



The Junior A hurlers have been drawn against Dohenys in the first round,while the Junior A footballers have been handed down a very tricky assignment for their first round against Clonakilty.
Southern Star 21st January
The re-scheduled Annual General Meeting of Bandon GAA Hurling and football Club will take place on Sunday next January 10th at 2.30 p.m. in the Pavilion. The meeting was originally scheduled for last Sunday but had to be cancelled because of the ongoing inclement weather conditions which have made any form of travel hazardous.

Weekly Bingo will resume in the Pavilion this week after the Christmas break and will take place as usual on Thursday night, together with the Lotto Draw.
Southern Star 16th January
According to the annual Financial Statements and Treasurers / Accountants Reports Bandon GAA Clubs massive development of their new flood-lit all-weather Pitch and Ball Alley is on target for completion, and will require only nominal Bank borrowings going forward, after an overall Capital outlay of almost €500,000. All this is mainly as a result of the incredible fund raising effort put in by Club members in the recently completed Development Draw and sanctioned National Lottery funding.

This was all reported to last Sunday's very well attended Club Annual General meeting in the Pavilion, but the big news is the announcement by re-elected Chairman Denis Lucey of the appointment of legendary dual All-Ireland winner Teddy McCarthy as Intermediate hurling Coach for this year. He will be joined by two other All-Ireland medal winners Padraig Crowley and Paddy Cahalane as Selectors.

Tributes were paid to the outgoing hurling Coach Red Crowley who had indicated some time ago that he was not going forward and his outgoing Selectors, Joe Crowley, James Deasy ,Don McCarthy and Robert Wilmot who had gotten Bandon to two County Intermediate finals. The Club wish Red well in his new role as a Senior hurling Selector with Glen Rovers.

The Chairman Denis Lucey in his extensive summary of the year, thanked the fund-raisers above all others for their tremendous efforts for almost four months on the highways and bi-ways of west Cork and beyond.

The Chairman remembered with fondness the passing of some great club-men the late Club President Sean Crowley, and also Denis O' Donovan and Robbie Wilmot.

He also thanked the great efforts of Coaches and Selectors especially championship winners in West Cork Junior A, and U21 hurling,and the West Cork and County minor winning football team.

Fr. Denis O'Leary the Club Patron who attended and briefly chaired the meeting for the election of Officers also wished the Club well for 2010 and beyond.

The Junior A footballers will be coached by Denny Ahern, who of course is from accross the County bounds, where gold has no market value at the moment because Kerry have so many All-Ireland medals lying around the place. At the moment he is joined by Patrick Calnan as a Selector.

The Chairman wished all the incoming Selectors and Coaches the very best of luck for the new year.

Jimmy Deasy will continue as Vice-Chairman but will be adding Development to his portfolio for the year. While Don Desmond, whose excellent and comprehensive Secretary's Report was the feature of the meeting, he will continue in that vitally important role.

Charles Lucey continues as Treasurer and James Milner is the assistant Treasurer with Kathleen Canty continuing in her role as Pavilion Secretary and Gerald Collins as Gaelic Officer.

Two more "young guns" Anthony Nyhan continues as a very effective Registrar and Donnacha Lehane has retained on-going responsibility for the excellent web-site.

Noel McNamara stepped down as Development Officer after many years and the tremendous work he has done and will continue to do for the Club cannot be understated.



All adult hurlers are asked to attend a special meeting in the Pavilion on Friday night next at 9.30 p.m.
Southern Star 9th January
The re-scheduled Annual General Meeting of Bandon GAA Hurling and football Club will take place on Sunday next January 10th at 2.30 p.m. in the Pavilion. The meeting was originally scheduled for last Sunday but had to be cancelled because of the ongoing inclement weather conditions which have made any form of travel hazardous.

Weekly Bingo will resume in the Pavilion this week after the Christmas break and will take place as usual on Thursday night, together with the Lotto Draw.