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All-Ireland champions Dublin briefly kept their hopes alive of reaching the Lidl Ladies Football Division One final after a comprehensive dismissal of Armagh on Saturday but Kerry's win on Sunday quickly put an end to that, and it's Kerry that will meet Armagh in the Final.
Played in Box-It Athletic Grounds, Armagh will not worry too much about the result as they have already qualified for the National League Final after last week’s win over Mayo. With that in mind Armagh manager Gregory McGonigle rested no less than ten first team players although Caroline O’Hanlon was ruled out through injury.
Dublin started well and it took only three minutes before firing home their first of four opening half goals, Hannah Tyrrell blasted into the net from close range after Niamh Hetherton’s effort crashed off the post.
Two minutes later and Armagh’s young keeper Brianna Mathers was picking the ball out of the net for the second time, Tyrrell again on target. Orlagh Nolan’s tap-in gave Dublin a 3-3 to no score lead with just six minutes gone.
Armagh looked to have steadied themselves with two converted frees from Kelly Mallon but it was all too easy for Carla Rowe who soloed through the home defence before lashing into the net.
Armagh tightened their defence but Dublin were content to take their points, with Rowe, Tyrrell, Martha Byrne and the impressive Grace Kos on target to lead by 4-7 to 0-3 at the break.
Armagh made six half-time substitutions and Kelly Mallon’s goal and point soon after a restart hinted at something of a comeback but Niamh Crowley put an end to such notions with Dublin’s fifth goal.
Meave Ferguson’s sin-bin 13 minutes from time didn’t help Armagh although they couldn’t be faulted for effort.
Dublin’s sixth goal came in the 53rd minute when Armagh failed to deal with Chloe Darby’s speculative long ball in and the last kick of the game from Annabelle Timothy sealed a big win for Dublin. Final score: Dublin 7-10 Armagh 1-4.
Scorers – Dublin: C Rowe 1-4 (4f), H Tyrrell 2-1, A Timothy 1-1, C Darby 1-0, N Crowley 1-0, O Nolan 1-0, M Byrne 0-1, G Kos 0-1, J Dunne 0-1, C Coffey 0-1.
Armagh: K Mallon 1-4 (4f).
DUBLIN: A Shiels, M Byrne, L Caffrey, J Tobin, N Crowley, O Carey, N Donlon, G Kos, J Dunne, O Nolan, C Rowe, C O’Connor, N Hetherton, H Tyrrell, K Sullivan. Subs: H McGinnis for J Tobin (41), A Timothy for C O’Connor (42), S Aherne for H Tyrell (45), C Darby for G Kos (46), J Egan for K Sullivan (57), A Nyhan for O Carey (55), C Coffey for J Dunne (56), E Deeley for N Donlan (60), C Kirwan for M Byrne (60), K Owens for O Nolan (60).
ARMAGH: B Mathers, G Ferguson, C McCambridge, M Ferguson, L Kavanagh, L McConville, C Garvey, E O’Brien, S Quigley, E Druse, M O’Callaghan, C Doyle, M Lennon, K Mallon, N Reel. Subs: N Coleman for E O’Brien (ht), A Carr for B Mathers (ht), N Henderson for C Doyle (ht), C O’Hagan for M Lennon (ht), M McCann for G Ferguson (ht), C McCormack for M O’Callaghan (ht), S Grey for L Kavanagh (ht), L Kenny for L McConville (51), D Coleman for E Druse (51), M Feehan for C Garvey (54).
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ARMAGH will face Kerry in the 2024 Lidl National League Division 1 Final at Croke Park on Sunday 7 April.
Armagh were already safely through to the final before Saturday’s clash with Dublin and will now face off against the reigning champions Kerry in the top flight showpiece.
Kerry booked their place in the final with a 2-11 to 0-12 win over Galway in Killarney. Leading by 1-3 to 0-5 at the break thanks to a goal from Danielle O’Leary, the holders held off an improved Galway side with Hannah O’Donoghue getting their second goal to seal the win.
Armagh manager Greg McGonigle said they are looking forward to their first ever Lidl Division 1 final at Croke Park on April 7 when they will take on reigning champions Kerry.
Armagh will bid to become only the second Ulster county to win the crown and the first since Monaghan captured it for the fourth time in 2012.
He fielded an understrength side against All-Ireland champions Dublin on Saturday, having already advanced to the final, and while they went down by 7-10 to 1-4, he was pleased with what they learned from it.
“We gave three players their debut. We have our panel, although expected we could have done a wee bit better but obviously Dublin did that to Kerry in the All-Ireland final last year as well. They came out of the blocks and scored quick goals. We are happy enough what we got out of it.”
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Results Sunday 24th March
Under 16 Section A
Burren 4-08 Carryduff 4-08
Under 16 Section B
Bosco 5-15 Clann Na Banna 4-05
RGU Downpatrick 2-06 Saul 5-07
Under 16 Section C
Bredagh B 5-02 Loughinisland 5-14
Rostrevor 1-07 Kilcoo 9-12
Glenn 2-03 Newry Shamrocks 6-06
Cumann Pheadair Naofa 4-07 Saval 6-04
Under 16 Section D
Drumgath 2-03 Ballyholland 7-09
Carryduff B 5-02 St Michaels 2-05
Ballymartin 4-05 Aghaderg B 6-12
Bryansford B 4-13 Dundrum 0-12
Fixtures Week Commencing 25 March
Tuesday 26th March – 6:30pm
Under 16 Section A
Mayobridge v Aghaderg
Thursday 28th March – 7pm
Under 16 Section B
St Johns v Annaclone
Sunday 31st March – 12:30pm
Under 16 Section B
Teconnaught v RGU Downpatrick
Bosco v Castlewellan
Saul v Clann Na Banna
Under 16 Section C
Saval v Glenn
Loughinisland v Cumann Pheadair Naofa
Bryansford v Bredagh B
Under 16 Section D
St Michaels v Bryansford B
Ballyholland v St Pauls
Aghaderg B v Carryduff B
Tullylish v Ballymartin
Sunday 31st March – 3pm
Under 16 Section D
Dundrum v Drumgath
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Down continued their winning ways at Round 3 of the Ulster U14 Festival of football on Saturday at Liatroim Fontenoys Co. Down.
Down's U14s were keen to build on last week's good performances against Donegal and Antrim by taking on Monaghan and Fermanagh, this time at home. Liatroim GAC were the hosts for Round 3 of the U14 Festival of football and their excellent facilities, leant itself to some great football.
Down took on Fermanagh in the first game. This was an amazing back and forth encounter with both sides battling hard for their jerseys. Some great finishes and really hard work saw Down edge this game by the odd goal. With an amazing four goal haul for Down's Annie Fitzpatrick.
Down 5-4 to Fermanagh 4-2.
In their second game Down faced Monaghan. Again this was a fiercely contested physical match.
Downs U14 management would have been delighted with an outstanding team performance. Down dominated possession and managed to hold the impressive Monaghan forward line to only three points in this game. While three unanswered Down goals in the second half (against the wind) gave the Mourne Ladies a great win.
Down 3-4 v Monaghan 0-3
A fantastic clean sheet for the Down keeper and defence; and two great results for the U14s to build on. Down U14 manager Stevie McCoey thanked Liatroim for doing a brilliant job of hosting the games. He also thanked the parents for their continued support for the team.
Down Team: Caoimhe Russell, Mollie Quinn, Maria McStay, Maisy Owens-Leonard, Caoimhe Donnelly, Ciara Doyle, Estelle Austin, Clodagh O’Donnell, Grace Guest, Ella Fallon, Maisie McAteer, Olivia McCusker, Izzie McCooey, Anaiah Lennon O’Hara, Khloe Davis, Kelsey Murray, Caitlin Bradshaw, Orlaith Mann, Olivia Dean, Anna McEvoy, Sofia Keenan Travers, Eibhlinn Poacher, Sophia Garvey, Jessica Flanagan, Eilidh O’Neill, Annie Fitzpatrick, Annie Fegan, Ruby McDonald, Caitriona Blaney & Ciara McKernan.
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Craobh Rua Camlocha Hurling Club this week launched their fundraising Spinathon with the help of GAA President Jarlath Burns. Jarlath is the 41st President of the GAA since 1884 and his family has had a long involvement with Craobh Rua with sons Jarly Óg and Fionnán current members of the senior panel and part of the history making Ulster Junior Club Championship team in 2021.
The Spinathon will take place in Camlough village on Saturday 20 April from 8am to 4pm and this year it will be supporting the worthy Cuan Mhuire Addiction Support Charity Newry (Sr Consilios) which celebrates forty years of service in 2024.
Wishing the club every success with their fundraising event the GAA President praised the work of Craobh Rua in not only promoting the game of hurling in the area, but also for the commitment the club has to the GAA Healthy Clubs initiative and the support for holistic health of their members and the local community.
Club Chairperson Laurence Bradley on behalf of Craobh Rua Camlocha thanked Jarlath for his ongoing support for the hurling club and wished him well in his role as GAA President.
Laurence also thanked Martin Mallon and the Bessbrook based company Pure Engineering Group who are the main sponsors of the fundraising Spinathon.
Booking slots are now available with the cost at £20 per hour. For booking or further information please contact Niall McGinn or any Committee member.
Email: treasurer.camlochcraobhrua.armagh@gaa.ie
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Newry City have announced that their Manager Barry Gray will be stepping down from first team duties for the present to focus on recovery after undergoing treatment for cancer.
Barry was appointed manager of Newry City AFC in January this year and in his absence the club will enlist the help of Gavin Dykes to work along with Dermot McVeigh and the present coaching staff for upcoming games.
In a statement the Newry club said "Barry has been undergoing cancer treatment for a number of weeks and feels the time is now right to focus solely on his recovery. Former club captain and personal friend of Barry's, Gavin Dykes will assist Dermot McVeigh and the current coaching staff for the upcoming games, beginning away to Glenavon on Saturday."
The statement added "We know that all supporters and indeed the wider football family will join us in sending Barry our best wishes and we hope to see him return to the club when he is fit and able to do so. we kindly request that the privacy of Barry and his family is
respected at this time."
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Kickboxing clubs from across Northern Ireland and beyond gathered for a day of skill-building and camaraderie at the first-ever KBI Northern Ireland Open Training Session in the Silverbrige Harps GAA club in March. Attendees were particularly pleased with the venue's size and setup, which provided an ideal environment for the day's activities.
The event was made possible due to the official recognition of Kickboxing Ireland as the governing body for kickboxing in Northern Ireland. On 21st Oct 2022, the sport of Kickboxing received recognition from the Sports Council in Northern Ireland (SportNI), under the auspices of Kickboxing Ireland and the IOC-recognised body of WAKO. This marked a significant milestone for the sport in the region.
A diverse array of clubs from across the island contributed to the event's success, with attendees representing various skill levels and backgrounds. The day's agenda featured a series of seminars and training sessions led by well known coaches.
The morning's sessions commenced under the expert guidance of Joe Hagan, hailing from Cookstown, Co. Tyrone, a recognised figure within the kickboxing community and a former national coach with Kickboxing Ireland. Drawing from his extensive experience and expertise, Hagan led participants through the intricacies of light contact and kick light techniques, imparting valuable insights gleaned from his years of dedication to the sport. Simultaneously, the K1 session saw participants under the mentorship of Damian Darker, the reigning WAKO PRO European champion fighting out of Elite Martial Arts in Dublin. Darker's unparalleled skill and strategic prowess provided attendees with a comprehensive understanding of the dynamic and fast-paced nature of K1 kickboxing, enriching their repertoire of techniques and tactics.
In the afternoon, the spotlight shifted to the full contact segment, overseen by Robert Cassells of Bodyshots Kickboxing, based in Newtownabbey, Co. Antrim. Cassells, himself a former WAKO PRO Intercontinental champion, brought his wealth of experience to the fore as he guided participants through the rigorous demands of full-contact kickboxing. With a keen focus on technique, conditioning, and strategy, Cassells ensured that attendees gleaned invaluable insights to elevate their performance in the ring.
Completing the lineup of renowned coaches was Robbie Haugh from Elite Fighter, also hailing from Dublin. Haugh's proficiency in the art of point fighting is second to none and added a dynamic dimension to the day's proceedings. Drawing upon his vast knowledge and expertise in this specialised discipline, Haugh offered participants a nuanced understanding of the intricacies involved in point fighting, empowering them to refine their skills and strategic approach.
A special thanks to all the coaches who pitched in throughout the day to add their experience. In addition to expressing gratitude to the coaches for their invaluable contributions, Kickboxing Ireland extends thanks to all attendees, especially the parents and coaches, for their enthusiasm and commitment to the sport's growth and development. Attendees travelled from all over the county to make this such a special occasion. Throughout the day, participants were seen smiling, laughing, and thoroughly enjoying themselves as they immersed themselves in the world of kickboxing. From beginners to seasoned practitioners, everyone found moments of exhilaration and camaraderie, making the event not just a training session but a memorable experience shared among like-minded individuals.
Feedback from the day was overwhelmingly positive, with participants expressing a desire for more sessions like this in the future.
A Kickboxing Ireland spokesperson added "Kickboxing Ireland membership offers access to funding opportunities, development programs, and valuable resources to enhance club operations and athlete performance in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. Additionally, as part of a recognised national federation, clubs gain credibility and visibility within the broader sporting community. We encourage kickboxing clubs across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland to seize the opportunity to join our growing community. Together, we can elevate the sport of kickboxing to new heights and create a thriving environment for athletes of all levels.
"Kickboxing Ireland extends its heartfelt gratitude to all participants and attendees for their enthusiastic involvement and support."
If you would like to join Kickboxing Ireland and be a part of this exciting journey towards excellence in kickboxing visit kickboxingireland.ie follow them on facebook www.facebook.com or email secretary@kickboxingireland.ie
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A total of 1-9 between Aimee Mackin and Kelly Mallon saw Armagh get the better of defending champions Kerry to claim the Lidl National Football League Division 1 title at Croke Park for the very first time.
Two years ago they lost out by three points to the Kingdom in a NFL Division 2 decider at the same venue so this victory was all the sweeter for the Orchard's first Division 1 final.
A fine point by Aoife McCoy edged Armagh in front for a second time after free-takers Mallon and Louise Ní Mhuircheartaigh had exchanged early frees, but the Kingdom received a massive boost when Lorraine Scanlon fired to the net on 10 minutes after a dead-ball strike from Ní Mhuircheartaigh had dropped short. This was only a minor set-back for Armagh, however, as midfielder Niamh Coleman palmed a goal of her own after Kerry netminder Mary Ellen Bolger had knocked down Mackin’s attempt at a point.
An earlier Mallon score meant Armagh led 1-3 to 1-1 on the first-quarter mark and this cushion was extended when Mallon superbly split the uprights from an acute left-hand angle.
Yet Kerry never allowed panic to creep into their play and three points on the bounce from Ní Mhuircheartaigh had the sides level at 1-4 apiece during the break.
After Mary O’Connell pounced on a defensive mishap by Armagh three minutes into the second half, Niamh Ní Chonchuir comfortably fired home a second Kingdom goal.
While this looked like being a major blow for the Orchard County, but they were instead galvanised in the minutes that followed Ní Chonchuir’s major. After unanswered points from Mallon, Mackin (two) and Niamh Henderson moved Armagh in front once again, the increasingly-dangerous Mackin rifled an unstoppable shot to the roof of the Kerry net on 39 minutes.
Further points from the Shane O’Neills ace either side of the third-quarter mark suddenly left Armagh six ahead, but much-needed contributions from Ní Mhuircheartaigh (two) and Hannah O'Donoghue offered fresh life to the Kingdom challenge.
Their deficit remained at three points when centre half-back Ciara Murphy cancelled out a Mallon free with a well-worked score, but even though Ní Mhuircheartaigh added her seventh point for a battling Kerry, substitute Corrina Doyle also found the range to ensure Armagh sealed a breakthrough success.
Final score Armagh 2-12 Kerry 2-9
Scorers - Armagh: A Mackin 1-4 (0-2f), K Mallon 0-5 (3f), N Coleman 1-0, A McCoy, N Henderson, C Doyle 0-1 each. Kerry: L Ní Mhuircheartaigh 0-7 (6f), N Ní Chonchuir, L Scanlon 1-0 each, C Murphy, H O’Donoghue 0-1 each.
ARMAGH: A Carr; G Ferguson, C McCambridge, R Mulligan; C Towe, L McConville, D Coleman; N Coleman, C O’Hanlon; E Druse, A McCoy, L Kenny; A Mackin, N Henderson, K Mallon. Subs: S Quigley for N Coleman (24), C Doyle for Druse (49), M McCambridge for Kenny (57), S Grey for McCoy (58), E Lavery for Mallon (59).
KERRY: ME Bolger; C Lynch, D Kearney, E Lynch; A O’Connell, C Murphy, K Cronin; M O’Connell, A Galvin; N Carmody, N Ní Chonchuir, L Scanlon; H O’Donoghue, E Dineen, L Ní Mhuircheartaigh. Subs: D O’Leary for NíChonchuir, C O’Brien for Kearney (both 39), A Harrington for Scanlon (44), K Brosnan for O’Donoghue (57).
Referee: Gus Chapman (Sligo).
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