SENIOR HURLING

Senior Scorers Chart

Player	Goals	Points	Total	Dead Ball
John O’Kane	7	80	101	4-62
Paul Brown	5	49	64	1-23
Tommy Mulligan	4	11	23
Liam Og Rice	2	8	14
James O’Hare	2	7	13
Ally Higgins	1	9	12	0-3
Karl Maxwell	1	8	11	0-4
Tommy McNally	2	5	11
Conan O’Neil	1	7	10
Ronan Mulligan	1	4	7
Chris Rooney	1	2	5
Fergal McGivern	0	4	4
Barry Hannah	1	1	4
Kieran Rice	1	0	3
Neil Dunigan	1	0	3
Danny Grant	0	2	2
Michael Fegan	0	2	2
Liam Boyle	-1	0	-3
Eugene McConville	-1	0	-3

Special mention goes to Liam Boyle and Eugene McConville who somehow conspired to score an own goal each in the Championship semi-final. Well done lads!

Bredagh beat the Point in Ballela

Warrenpoint 1-03 Bredagh 2-10

Warrenpoint Seniors went down to their second defeat in the Junior Championship final in three years after a convincing win by league champions Bredagh. With both teams totally determined to win no quarter was given in any area of the pitch it was a game where quality would shine through and it was Bredagh’s full back and full forward line that again made the difference, with the middle third of the pitch evenly contested.

It was essential that Warrenpoint got off to a good start with a strong winds to their back in the first half. Both teams started nervously missing chances normally they would put away. Warrenpoint fired over no fewer than 9 wides in the first half only scoring with a last minute Karl Maxwell free. This was extremely disappointing for the team as they were on top for long periods of the first half, and restricting Bredagh’s formidable forward line to 1-4 was an acceptable return.

The second half began well for the team, forcing Bredagh on the back foot and getting a major off John O’Kane powerful free. But Bredagh showed their mettle and dominated the rest of the game, keeping Warrenpoint scoreless for the last quarter and in that time running in 1-4 to pull the game away from the Point. Warrenpoint can have no complaints of the result, though will be sore at the scoreline, knowing that if they had have taken their scores in the first half the game could have taken a different turn.

The defence again was strong for both teams. Damien McConville and Declan Doyle were superb in the full-back line, easily the best players wearing Blue and White that day. Karl Maxwell must get a mention for a great second half display when he moved to a more central position, and the future of the team is certainly secure with players of his class are coming through the ranks.

Congratulations must goes first and foremost to Bredagh. They were the only team Warrenpoint never beat all year and they showed why, being miserly in defence with Danny Hughes and Ian Galway showing years of experience to stifle any and all pressure that the Blues could muster. Up front they had the one or two players that could find the scores under pressure and from any position. Best wishes also go to their senior team in the Ulster Championship and in their Intermediate league campaign next year. Go n-eirí an t-ádh libh.

Many thanks also to Ballela for hosting the match. The new ground is in majestic condition and the facilities put on were greatly appreciated.

The team also took great heart from the many many fans that made it on the day to cheer the team on. Here’s hoping that with a bit more effort we’ll finally land home silverware for the club next year.

Finally thanks once again for the sponsorship and support from W.B.R Credit Union who have kindly followed the team for a number of years and hopefully will continue to do this for the foreseeable future.

Warrenpoint race to Championship Final

Warrenpoint 4-16 Portaferry 2-07

Down Junior Hurling Championship1/2 Final,Sunday 26th August, Castlewellan

Scorers:
John O’Kane 2-7 [1-5 from frees]
Tommy Mulligan 0-2
Tommy McNally 0-3
Chris Rooney 1-1
Liam Og Rice 1-2
Conan O’Neil 0-1

Man of the Match: Liam Og Rice

Warrenpoint, sponsored very generously by W.B.R. Credit Union, played some great hurling to get into their second Championship final in 3 years. On a perfect day for hurling on a pristine Castlewellan surface, Warrenpoint dominated their opposition Portaferry after a slow start.

Directly from the throw in the ball reached Tommy McNally who expertly scored the first of three points that came his way in the first half. Despite this score Portaferry scored a fortunate goal, as their tactic of high balls through the middle paid off. The sliotar was making its way towards Spud Murphy in goal when it took a deflection off “Shak” McConville and crawled over the line. This, along with a serious injury to Fergal McGivern wasn’t the kind of start the Blues needed, but Chris Rooney took a sweet score over his shoulder to reduce the arrears to a single point. Both teams traded scores before another deflected shot that came off Liam Boyle on 12 minutes gave the Ards men a major and a 4 point lead. These were goals you’d never concede in a whole year but now Warrenpoint had conceded two in a matter of minutes. This never deflected the game plan of the Seasiders who continued to play open attacking hurling. Two long range scores from man of the match left-half back Liam Og Rice and another score from O’Kane in two minutes reduced the gap. A fine Portaferry score gave them a 2 point lead before “Home-Bird” Mulligan came into his own tearing through the defense leading to two frees which O’Kane knocked over the bar. Tommy McNally, continuing his excellent first half, knocked over his second score to give the Blues the lead. Portaferry quickly equalized but that was their last score of the half and in that time Warrenpoint had realistically won the game.

Three points in three minutes gave the Point a solid lead before they got their first major of the game. Fine work on the wing from Mulligan led to Damien McConville expertly switching directing with a lovely stick pass to Conan O’Neil, who unselfishly moved the ball back to O’Kane. He evaded a lunging tackle before unleashing an unstoppable shot into the roof of the net. From the resulting puck out the sliotar was driven back into the Portaferry square, where Chris Rooney, showing his strength scored a fine goal from the ground. Directly after this the Portaferry goal keeper deliberately struck at Rooney’s head with a baseball type swing, leading to an inevitable red card. Off the pitch this would be described as “assault with a deadly weapon” and the Management were thankful that he was wearing a helmet.

Half-Time score 2-12 to 2-3

The second half was a low scoring affair but by no means a dull game. Portaferry started the brighter with 2 frees from the dead ball in the first 4 minutes to keep the game alive. But this did not last long as a long range effort from Liam Og Rice dropped short of the stand in keeper who committed the cardinal sin of letting the ball bounce at the edge of the square and it bounced into the net. Three more points, two from O’Kane and one from Conan O’Neill meant the game was over. Unfortunately Portaferry resorted to type when getting bear and started to pull and draw on any Point man hoping for retaliation. But this reaction was well expected and hammered home on the players at half-time, who were more concerned with the final against Bredagh than getting “even” on their opposition. O’Kane fired home his second goal from a free after a Portaferry point and a fine score from Tommy Mulligan followed, but the game got extremely scrappy towards the end with constant and targeted fouling the order of the day.

Warrenpoint still had time to fashion the best score the day. Good defensive work from “Boyler” led to Tommy Mulligan receiving in the full back line who stick passed to Liam Og Rice on the half back. He duly soloed to the midfield before hand passing to O’Kane who unleashed a powerful shot right over the bar. One more score from Portaferry ended the scoring but not the drama. Portaferry number 13 struck out at Tommy Mulligan twice with his hurl and with his fist. The ref somehow decided that the proper course of action was to send off both players. This took the shine off a fine performance and especially after Warrenpoint maintaining their discipline throughout constant foul play.

Of course much improvement will have to be made if they are to overturn Bredagh, who are in their second final in as many years and will go into the game as favourites after a comfortable league campaign and twice beating the Blues, but if the same attitude and commitment can be shown in the coming weeks then Warrenpoint should have nothing to fear.

It was unfortunate that the nature of some of the Portaferry tackling led to some serious injuries being picked up. Chris Rooney had to spend the night in hospital after being deliberately struck in the head, while no fewer than 5 other players, Fergal McGivern, Liam Rice, Barry Hannah, Ronan Mulligan and Mark Rafferty all had to spend time in casualty due to injuries picked up that could result in them missing the rest of the season.

Report by Kevin Rice, management

Squad

Brian Murphy
Eugene McConville
Declan Doyle
Mark Rafferty
Colm McKey
Fergal McGivern
Liam Og Rice
Barry Hannah
Ronan Mulligan
Tommy Mulligan
Damien McConville
John O’Kane
Conan O’Neil
Chris Rooney
Tommy McNally
Stephen Burns
Liam Boyle
Kevin Rice
Kieran Rice
Martin Patterson

Substitutes: Liam Boyle for Fergal McGivern
Stephen Burns for Tommy McNally
Martin Patterson for Chris Rooney

Warrenpoint nip it against Ballycran

Warrenpoint 1-12 Ballycran 0-14

Down Junior Hurling Championship ¼ Final,Sunday 19th August, Darragh Cross

Scorers:
John O’Kane 0-9 [0-9 frees]
Tommy Mulligan 1-1
Fergal McGivern 0-1
Chris Rooney 0-1

Warrenpoint Man of the Match: Fergal McGivern

On a wind-swept and muddy pitch at Darragh Cross Warrenpoint showed great guts and mettle to get through to a semi-final show-down with Portaferry after a one point victory against Ballycran. It was Ballycran, playing against the strong wind in the first half, who started the brighter and quickly moved into a 2 point lead. With the “Point” missing three chances in a row it was the ever-green Fergal McGivern who settled the nerves with a fine point from the midfield area. Some superb link up play led to Tommy “home-bird” Mulligan dribbling past his man before dispatching the ball into the bottom corner of the net. With Ballycran scoring from the dead ball this gave The Blues a one point lead. Frees were to play a crucial role in the game with conditions not suited to open attacking play.

Indeed over the next 15 minutes Warrenpoint scored 5 frees to Ballycran’s one to open up a 5 point lead. Credit has to go the half forwards who were always first to the ball leading to the Kircubbin men having to commit the frees. However Ballycran hit back hard in the last five minutes of the game to outscore the Seasiders by 3 points to 1 to leave a goal between them at half-time.

Half-Time score 1-7 to 0-7

When the second half started it was vital that Warrenpoint settled quickly, especially with the wind in their faces and a fine score from John O’Kane confirmed this. But Ballycran had their tales up and knocked over 4 points, three from the dead ball to draw level. Ballycran were on top of every position and forced a penalty after constant pressure. This was knocked over the bar to give Ballycran the lead for the first time since the opening minutes of the game.

Both teams upped their games at this stage knowing every point was vital. This pressure told when a Ballycran man kicked John O’Kane when he was lying on the ground. Referee Ciaran McGuiness was left with no choice but to brandish the red card. With the game heading into the last ten minutes the score line stood at 1-8 to 0-12 and the young Point players really came into their own to see the game home. John O’Kane pointed from a tight angle before “home-bird” Mulligan gave the Point the lead with a lovely point from the right.

Points were exchanged from both teams before an inspirational score from the Ballycran half-forward leveled the scores for the 5th time. With both teams knowing that the next score would be the winner a long pass from the half-back line found full forward big Chris Rooney who smashed the ball over the bar to win the game. This was all the sweeter as Chris Rooney was playing his first game of the year after a year long knee injury.

Credit must go to both teams for playing some tough but generally fair hurling in terrible conditions. Nothing really separated the sides throughtout the 60 minutes and it was a special score that won the game. Next up is Portaferry in the semi-final with the winners due to meet newly crowned league champions Bredagh in the final. Man of the match has to go to Fergal McGivern who yet again led the line from the start and with some superb fielding and link up play.

Warrenpoint is once again sponsored by W.B.R branch of the Credit Union and many thanks for their support. It’s now time to knuckle down for the semi-final in a weeks time.

Squad

Brian Murphy
Eugene McConville
Declan Doyle
Mark Rafferty
Michael Murphy
Colm McKey
Liam Og Rice
Conan O’Neil
Ronan Mulligan
James O’Hare
Fergal McGivern
John O’Kane
Tommy Mulligan
Chris Rooney
Tommy McNally
Barry Hannah
Stephen Burns
Liam Boyle
Kevin Rice
Daniel Grant

DOWN DEMOCRAT JUNIOR HURLING CHAMPIONSHIP
QUARTER FINALS (A)
Sat/Sun 4/5th Aug in Kilclief
CAISLEÁN an MHUILLIN (Castlewellan) v BREDACH (Bredagh)
QUARTER FINALS (B)
Sat/Sun 4/5th Aug in Downpatrick
BAILE CRANN (Ballycran) v RINN MHIC GIOLLA RUA (Warrenpoint)
QUARTER FINALS (C)
Sat/Sun 4/5th Aug in Liatroim

QUARTER FINALS (D)
Sat/Sun 4/5th Aug in Ballycran
PORT AN PHEIRE (Portaferry) v BAILE MHIC UILEAGOID (Ballygalget)

O Kane Conquers Clonduff

Warrenpoint 1-11 Clonduff 2-07

Division 2 fixture, Tuesday 24thJuly, Clonduff Park, Hilltown

Scorers:
John O’Kane 1-7 [0-4 frees]
Allen Higgins 0-3
Liam Og Rice 0-1

Warrenpoint Man of the Match: John O’Kane

Despite the low scoring nature of the game this was by no means a dull game. Played at a fast pace with some excellent points and goals this showed the great benefit of having good underage set ups with both teams missing 4 of their first team and still fielding strong teams capable of turning over anyone on their day.

It was the Clonduff side that started the stronger with a fine point but this lead was short-lived as the still improving John O’Kane leveled matters with a point. Clonduff forward Eddie Clancy then mis-hit a shot that crept into the top corner of the net, giving Clonduff a three point lead and also a good period of possession and dominance. But thanks to the full back line of Eugene “Shak” McConville, Decky Doyle and 17-year-old Mark “Raffo” Rafferty they couldn’t capitalize on.

With the “Point” struggling to maintain and control possession in midfield half-back Liam Og Rice went on a solo run which was duly converted over the bar. This lifted the team, and thanks to the introduction of James O’Hare the Warrenpoint forwards started using their superior speed and agility to create more space, easily shown when John O’Kane went on a mazy solo run and point, helped out by the selfless off-the-ball running of Allen Higgins and Stephen Burns. A couple of frees from Clonduff and one from O’Kane apiece left just a point between the teams. A superlative side-line cut from Down Under-21 star Allen Higgins found the hand of O’Kane who turned his man with aplomb and duly dispatched the ball into the back of the net.

Half Time 1-3 to 1-4

Warrenpoint received a serious “talking to” at half time for a sluggish first half effort, and they started the second half in blistering style. In a 15 minute spell Warrenpoint stuck over 4 points, 2 from Higgins and 2 from O’Kane, who were working together like Torvill and Dean. Only for 2 fine saves from the Clonduff keeper and some wasteful shooting the game should have been over, but a couple of Clonduff frees meant only a goal separated the sides with 15 minutes to go. Another Clonduff score, their only one from play in the second half meant they were on the ascendancy. Some dissent from another foul meant the ball being moved to the center of the 21-yard line that was unceremoniously smashed into the goal, giving Clonduff a one point lead into the last ten minutes.

Warrenpoint showed their depth in strength by introducing Neil Dunigan and Aaron O’Hare, who, while not scoring, continued the game plan for speed and direct running to torment the Clonduff defence. With only 5 minutes left Warrenpoint showed great character and composure to play the game that suits them, especially after falling 2 points behind from another converted free. John O’Kane converted a long-range free and Allen Higgins leveled after a beautiful pass from the menacing Tommy McNally to leave a point in the game. Warrenpoint made their last throw of the dice re-introducing Liam Boyle, and it was his sharp turn “on a six-pence” that won the free that John O’Kane knocked over to win the game with virtually the last passage of play.

This was a good away win for Warrenpoint, after having a couple of losses, to give them confidence going into the Championship against Ballycran this Sunday. Both teams can take heart from their performances. Considering Clonduff were missing John Murphy, Finbar Murphy, Paddy Branigan and Paul McCusker, while Warrenpoint were without Fergal McGivern, Tommy Mulligan, Conan O’Neil, Paul Brown and Karl Maxwell, they can take heart for battling performances. Man of the match has to go to John O’Kane. 1-7 is a mighty return, with 1-3 coming from play. His effort off the ball and temperament is rapidly improving, and making him all the better a hurler for it.

Warrenpoint is once again sponsored by W.B.R branch of the Credit Union and many thanks for their support. It’s now time to knuckle down for the 1st round of the Championship and seeing what comes after that.

Squad

Brian Murphy
Eugene McConville
Declan Doyle
Mark Rafferty
Damien McConville
Colm McKey
Liam Og Rice
Michael Murphy
Ronan Mulligan
Allen Higgins
Stephen Burns

John O’Kane
Tommy McNally
Liam Boyle
Barry Hannah
Aaron O’Hare
Neil Dunigan
James O’Hare
Chris Rooney
Kieran Rice
Kevin Rice

Subs:
James O’Hare for Liam Boyle
Neil Dunigan for Stephen Burns
Aaron O’Hare for Barry Hannah
Liam Boyle for Tommy McNally

Report by Kevin Rice, management

Warrenpoint lose a very winnable match
Warrenpoint 0-10 Portaferry 0-13

Division 2 fixture, Thursday 5th July, Moygannon

Warrenpoint Man of the Match: Declan Doyle

Scorers:
Paul Brown 0-3
John O’Kane 0-6 [0-6frees]
Fergal McGivern 0-1

Man of the Match Declan Doyle

Warrenpoint, sponsored this year once again by WBR Credit Union and for the first time by INF Warrenpoint, did not do themselves any justice against a Portaferry side that was 2 points behind them in the league. The game was preceded by a minutes silence for Patricia Coughlin and the entire Senior Hurling team and management express their deepest condolences for Gerry and his family.

In a free flowing game it was Warrenpoint who got off to the better start quickly settling into the job at hand. John O’Kane scored from a free before Liam Boyle, at difficult angle to shoot from, squared the ball to Paul Brown in space on the 21 yard line who duly put the ball over the bar. Portaferry responded with a fine point from play giving Warrenpoint the narrowest of leads in the opening 5 minutes. 2 quick points from Paul Brown and another free from John O’Kane opened up a 3 point lead. At this point the weather took a turn for the worse and a normally straight-forward free went begging. John O’Kane quickly adjusted to the terrible conditions and slotted over his next free to give Warrenpoint a 4 point lead half way through the first half. But the “Point” forwards took their eye off the ball and subsequently put their backs under pressure by constantly losing the ball. Portaferry had a golden 10 minute spell that reaped 5 unanswered points to give them the lead for the first time. John O’Kane responded with a great fielded ball, followed by a darting solo run and hand bass to the free Paul Brown to split the posts once again. Portaferry scored a late free in the half to make it evens at half time.

Half Time score Warrenpoint 0-7 Portaferry 0-7

Portaferry started the second half the quickest and only for some poor shooting and some excellent full back play, especially from Warrenpoint’s man of the match Declan Doyle and the improving Mark Rafferty, they would have been further ahead other than the single point they got in the opening 5 minutes. Warrenpoint dominated the next 5-10 minutes, keeping good possession of the ball. But all that resulted was 4 missed points and a clear goal chance that was somehow saved on the line with the goal begging from Conan O’Neil.

What made this more frustrating was that Portaferry replied with 2 quick scores giving them a 3 point lead. John O’Kane replied with 2 solid frees but with Warrenpoint pressing forward chasing the game they started leaving gaps at the back which the Ards men drove home to their advantage, scoring 3 points. A fine long range score from Fergal McGivern showed the usual leadership qualities that kept Warrenpoint fighting to the end.

This was a game that Warrenpoint felt they should have gotten something from. They had enough of the play and the greater share of possession but they need to learn to move the ball to players in space instead of taking the more difficult shots from impossible angles.

Next up is the July fortnight with no matches and then the first round of the Championship to Ballycran.

Brian Murphy
Eugene McConville
Declan Doyle
Mark Rafferty
Fergal McGivern
Colm McKey
Liam Og Rice
Ronan Mulligan
Thomas Mulligan
John O’Kane
Paul Brown
James O’Hare
Barry Hannah
Liam Boyle
Conan O’Neil

17 Kieran Rice
18 Aaron O’Hare
19. Michael Fegan
20. Colm Cunningham
21. Michael Murphy
22. Stephen Burns
23. Damien McConville

Substitutions: M. Murphy for B Hannah
D McConville for Liam Og Rice
M Fegan for Liam Boyle

Report by Kevin Rice, management

Warrenpoint lose to league leaders
Warrenpoint 0-10 Bredagh 3-9

Division 2 fixture, Tuesday 19th June, Moygannon

Warrenpoint Man of the Match: Fergal McGivern

Scorers:
Paul Brown 0-2
Allen Higgins 0-2
John O’Kane 0-2 [0-2frees]
Conan O’Neil 0-1
Fergal McGivern 0-1
Liam Og Rice 0-1
James O’Hare 0-1

Warrenpoint started this game against table toppers Bredagh in fine form and quickly established dominance in the middle third of the field. Two quick points from play were scant reward for a blistering opening ten minute spell, and this was quickly cancelled out with Bredagh’s first major attack of the game led to the ball ending up in the back of the net. Warrenpoint’s movement on and off the ball was causing great problems with the Bredagh half-back line and Liam Og Rice and Fergal were especially dominating in their own department, winning clean ball after clean ball. Fine scores from half-forwards Allen Higgins and Paul Brown, a score from midfielder Conan O’Neill and two superb long range efforts from Fergal McGivern and Liam Og Rice all came in an entertaining first half. However when Warrenpoint were finding scores from all over the pitch Bredagh’s full forward line was causing havoc and getting the goals that would in the end be the decisive factor. The Points full back line could not get to grip with their opposite numbers giving them time and space to fire three goals in rapid fire time past the hapless Brian Murphy. Half time told a picture of both teams with the same number of scores but with a 6 point lead for Bredagh.

Half time score Warrenpoint 0-7 Bredagh 3-4

The second half was a much lower scoring affair as the blustering wind took control of the game. Warrenpoint tightened up defensively but their full forward line could not at one stage find the goals that would change the game. Credit is due to the Bredagh full back line who were superb throughout and fought till the last minute to stop any goals going past them. Two frees from John O’Kane and a point from play from James O’Hare was all that they could muster for all the good play, while Bredagh got five points with the wind at the back to see the game out.

In summary Warrenpoint can take great delight from 7 different scorers [6 from play] for all areas of the pitch and certainly they know that they can compete with any team in the middle third of the pitch. But the saying “goals win matches” was proven today. Bredagh were superior in their full forward and full back lines and that will see them crowned probable champions.

One slight gripe I would have is 4 games played in 8 days, something that would normally see Alex Ferguson weeping on television. This proved tough on the Warrenpoint resources though never dampened their spirits.

Brian Murphy
Eugene McConville
Declan Doyle
Aaron O’Hare
Michael Murphy
Fergal McGivern
Liam Og Rice
Conan O’Neil
Tommy Mulligan
John O’ Kane
Paul Brown
Allen Higgins
Colm Cunningham
Ronan Mulligan
James O’Hare

Substitutes
Kieran Rice
Michael Fegan
Barry Hannah
Stephen Burns
Tommy McNally(James O’Hare)
Carl Maxwell(Colm Cunningham)
Liam Boyle

Report by Kevin Rice, Management

Point beaten again at ¼ final stage

Warrenpoint 2-09 St Endas 3-09
[half time 1-5 to 2-4]

Ulster League Division 4 ¼ final fixture 16th June 2007, St Marys Burren

Scorers:
Paul Brown 2-1
John O’Kane 0-6 [5 frees]
Carl Maxwell 0-1 [1 free]

Man of the Match Declan Doyle

Warrenpoint narrowly missed out on a semi-final spot in the Ulster League after losing by a single goal to a strong and highly fancied St Endas team in a wet evening in Burren. This was a match that, with a bit of luck, could have been a win for the Blues. It was probably Warrenpoint’s best display of the season considering the opposition with some extremely well worked moves around all areas of the field and some excellent movement by the forwards. The sliotar out of defence was of a high quality which gave the young and quick forward line every chance of success.

It was the opening five minutes that with hindsight cost them the game; with St Endas registering two brilliant goals from them extremely nifty corner forward. St Endas never lost this lead apart from a brief moment in the second half, but Warrenpoint never stopped trying from the first minute to close this gap.

It was a brace from John O’Kane that brought some parity to the score line, but another couple of scores from St Endas showed why they’ve won every game in their section, opening up a 6 point lead. Warrenpoint definitely ended the first half the stronger of the two teams and this pressure paid off from a long range goal for the ever dependable and supporting Paul Brown. An exchange of 3 John O’Kane frees and two scores from St Endas meant it was a two point game at the break

Half Time Warrenpoint 1-5 St Endas 2-4

The second half started with a find point from the St Endas half forward line, giving them a 3 point lead. However Warrenpoint found themselves level with a second goal from play from Paul Brown, knocking in from close range after reading the breaking ball. This score didn’t last long as some scrappy midfield play led to the ball finding their full forward who put it past the hapless Brian Murphy in nets. This is a lead they never lost. The next 15 minutes saw 3 points apiece for both teams, with some excellent scores from both teams, including a brilliant free from County Minor Carl Maxwell.

Another score from St Endas meant Warrenpoint desperately needed a goal and after some brilliant solo running from fellow county minor Allen Higgins the sliotar broke loose 10 yards from goal. This onrushing John O’Kane pulled on the ground and somehow, and without his knowledge, hit the keeper square in the chest. Another close range free nearly resulted in a goal but was knocked over the bar by their keeper and the referee blew his whistle to end a great game of hurling.

While only three forwards scored from play it must be mentioned that the forwards Allen Higgins, James O’Hare, Stephen Burns and Tommy Mulligan all worked tirelessly for the cause making space and drawing frees.

Congratulations must go to the St Endas team for their victory and the best of luck with the rest of their season. Their willingness to go for goal at most opportunities paid dividends, though man of the match Declan Doyle gave a sterling performance repelling as many attacks as possible in the full back line and giving the equally impressive Brian Murphy less work to do.

Special thanks also to St. Mary’s Burren for providing the pitch for the match and to the Monaghan referee for letting the game flow as much as possible.

Warrenpoint Senor hurling team are sponsored once again by W.B.R Credit Union and it is hoped this will continue.

Brian Murphy
Eugene McConville
Declan Doyle
Mark Rafferty
Michael Murphy
Liam Og Rice
Conan O’Neil
Ronan Mulligan
Thomas Mulligan
Allen Higgins
Paul Brown
John O’Kane
Carl Maxwell
Stephen Burns (Tommy McNally)
James O’Hare

17 Tommy McNally
18 Barry Hannah
19. Colm Cunningham
20. Neil Dunigan
21. Liam Boyle

Man of the Match Declan Doyle

Report by Kevin Rice, management

Point pass Killeavy just

Warrenpoint 2-09 Killeavy 2-08
[half time 0-3 to 1-1]

Ulster League Division 4 playoff fixture 14th June 2007, Moygannon

Scorers:
Paul Brown 1-2 [1 free]
John O’Kane 0-5 [2 frees, 1 from penalty]
Carl Maxwell 1-0
Tommy Mulligan 0-1
Ronan Mulligan 0-1

This was a hastily arranged match to decide which team would progress from their Ulster League table, with the winner facing a quarter final clash against Antrim side St Endas in Burren the following Saturday. It promised to be a tight match, with a hard fought draw being played out between the teams three weeks earlier, and that proved to be the case.

On a wet and windy night it was Killeavy who started the strongest and after only 6 minutes Warrenpoint found themselves a goal and a point down to no score in return. It took Warrenpoint till the 13th minute to register on the score board with a point from Paul Brown but Killeavy quickly responded with a point of their own to maintain their 4 point lead. At this point of the game The “Blues” started to settle down and find their rhythm. Forwards James O’Hare, Tommy McNally and midfielder Thomas Mulligan started to take the game to Killeavy with some direct running and this inevitably lead to some frees which John O’Kane duly put over the bar. In the next bit of play, Stephen Burns, still learning the art of full forward play, turned his man brilliantly and the full back had little option but to drag him down, leading to a penalty at the stroke of half time. John O’Kane stepped up for the second time in a week to take the penalty, but this time the Killeavy team stood strong, saving a certain goal and knocking it over the bar. This was the last bit of action before half time

Half Time Warrenpoint 0-3 Killeavy 1-2

The second half was a much better game with 2 Warrenpoint forwards and their 2 midfielders all contributing scores from play. Killeavy scored first but John O’Kane quickly replied from the dead ball to cancel that score. A Killeavy attack was stopped at the half back line and the ball found Tommy Mulligan who, responding to the call, knocked a 40 yard pass into the hands of the waiting Carl Maxwell. He bore down on goal before despatching the sliotar with aplomb into the top corner of the net, giving Warrenpoint the narrowest of leads for the first time in the game.
Warrenpoint however took their foot off the gas and Killeavy responded with a goal and two points in a brilliant 5 minute spell, giving them a 4 point lead with just 5 minutes remaining on the clock. However Warrenpoint showed great character in the last quarter. Fine interlinking between full backs Aaron O’Hare and Mark Rafferty set up a quick ball into the waiting Stephen Burns, who dragged the defenders in before calmly passing to the waiting Paul Brown who couldn’t miss in front of the goals. John O’Kane followed with another long range point after the half-back line won the resultant puck out. The pressure on the Killeavy team continued. A Paul Brown drive from the midfield area seemed to be dropping into the hand of the goalkeeper, however a late run from Conan O’Neil across his path distracted him and the ball dropped kindly into the net.

The game was back and forth, as evidenced by Killeavy’s digging deep and knocking over two quick points to take a one point lead. Tommy Mulligan responded with a find point from the breaking ball, and the game was level with two minutes to go. Neither team were giving any quarter, and Killeavy must have thought they had won the game when they scored another point from their left-half forward. However the old adage of keeping calm under pressure was indeed the case here, and the resultant puck out was won by the half forward line, and the ever consistent John O’Kane collected the ball and slotted it over the bar. With barely a minute to go the scores were level and the game was anyone’s for the taking. The puck out was vital, and it was won by the Blues again. The ball fell kindly for Captain Ronan Mulligan and his shot seemed to have the Gods behind it as the wind took it between the posts. No time was left for Killeavy to attack and a one-point win for the Point was the result.

Full Time Warrenpoint 2-9 Killeavy 2-8

Man of the Match Tommy Mulligan

Congratulations must go to both teams for a real tough game that was played with a Championship feel about it. It contained none of the dirty play that was a feature of the last game and credit to both teams for maintaining their discipline throughout. There was very little to separate both teams, though the variety of Warrenpoints scorers was a notable feature.

Brian Murphy
Eugene McConville (Aaron O’Hare)
Declan Doyle
Mark Rafferty
Michael Murphy
Fergal McGivern
Liam Og Rice
Ronan Mulligan
Thomas Mulligan
James O’Hare
Paul Brown
John O’Kane
Colm Cunningham (Carl Maxwell)
Stephen Burns
Thomas McNally (Conan O’Neil)

17 Kieran Rice
18 Conan O’Neil
19. Aaron O’Hare
20. Martin Patterson
21. Barry Hannah
22. Carl Maxwell
23. Daniel Grant
24. Neil Dumigan

Report by Kevin Rice, management

Ballygalget barely beat the Point

Warrenpoint 2-06 Ballygalget 2-07
[half time 0-3 to 0-4]

Division 2 fixture 12th June 2007, Ballygalget

Scorers:
John O’Kane 1-5 [4 frees and one penalty]
Ronan Mulligan 1-0
Liam Og Rice 0-1

In recent weeks Warrenpoint, sponsored generously by the WBR branch of the Credit Union, have missed bagful of changes in games and got away with it. They didn’t on this occasion. Despite being on top for long periods, it was their inaccuracy in front of goal which cost them the game. What makes the pill even harder to swallow is that Clonduff and Ballycran, teams directly above them, both lost, meaning a chance to take second place in the league was passed on.

Warrenpoint started slowly and quickly found themselves a point down. They quickly equalised from the dead ball, but over the next 15 minutes proceeded to missed 3 frees and 3 guilt edged opportunities from open play. In the same period Ballygalget had 4 chances and took three of them, giving them a 3 point lead. Warrenpoint rallied to the end of the first half with a John O’Kane free and a find long range score from the ever dependable Liam Og Rice to leave only a point between the teams at half time.

Warrenpoint continued the second half in similar fashion with two points from John O’Kane, one from a free and the other from a trademark solo run and score. With further chances missed a long range point from the Ballygalget midfield left the game level. The half backs for the Blues now started pushing forward trying to spark some life into the game, knowing the forwards were having an off day. At this point Ballygalget brought on one of the Braniff contingent and that changed the game. He sat in behind the defence and quickly scored a good goal. However, five minutes later he showed another side of his game and punched Fergal McGivern in full view of the referee that was both dirty and uncalled for. The referee gave the free yet no action was taken against the player, who was already ticked and booked. Indeed we’d like to see a motion brought forward to Croke Park to have punching in hurling made a bookable offence!

Of course this lead to another goal five minutes later, when a looping ball confused Brian Murphy in nets who was distracted by the onrushing Braniff giving the home team a 6 point lead. Warrenpoint sparked into life and from a resulting 65 the sliotar dropped in the danger zone and a first time pull from captain Ronan Mulligan hit the back of the net. Another long range free left only two points in the game, though Ballygalget raised their game to score another two frees.

Some direct running from half back Eugene McConville gave the Point a merited penalty which John O’Kane duly despatched. However time was up and a narrow defeat was all could be taken from the long trip.

This might be a wake-up call to the forwards with regards to their recent inaccuracy in front of the goals. If even one other forward other than John O’Kane had scored it would have been a drawn game.

Next up is a tough rematch with Killeavy for place in Ulster League quarter final, with Warrenpoint hosting league leaders Bredagh at Moygannon next Tuesday.

Brian Murphy
Michael Murphy
Declan Doyle
Mark Rafferty
Eugene McConville
Fergal McGivern
Liam Og Rice
Ronan Mulligan
Tommy Mulligan
James O’Hare
Conan O’Neil
John O’Kane
Michael Fegan(Neil Dumigan)
Barry Hannah(Danny Grant)
Tommy McNally
Kieran Rice
Colm Cunningham
Shane McKey
Neil Dunigan
Stephen Burns
Martin Patterson
Danny Grant

Match report by Kevin Rice, management.

Battling Point make it four league wins in a row

Warrenpoint 3-08 Castlewellan 0-08
[half time 1-3 to 0-3]

Division 2 fixture 5th June 2007, Moygannon

Scorers
Paul Brown 0-3 [1 free]
Barry Hanna 1-0
Tommy McNally 1-0
Neil Dumigan 1-0
John O’Kane 0-2 [1 free]
Tommy Mulligan 0-2
Michael Fegan 0-1

On a bright and sunny Tuesday night, perfect for hurling, Warrenpoint Seniors continued their great form of late [4 league wins in a row with 5 wins and a draw in the last 7 in all competitions]. This was a game in which Warrenpoint were in front at all times and never relinquished this lead, mainly due to their superior first touch and speed. It also helped that we kept our composure and discipline when Castlewellan pulled late on our quicker men. [Though this was not as physical a match as the previous meeting between the two teams].
While none of the Point players stood out with exceptional performances it was noted by the management that each player played above the man they were marking and this “professional” victory pleased them. Tommy Mulligan gets special praise for being a general menace throughout the game, and bagged himself two fine points.

Warrenpoint led by 5 points at half time thanks to a long range goal from the improving Barry Hannah and points from Down Junior star John O’Kane and the young Michael Fegan.

After the break Castlewellan tried to close the gap but could find no way past the Warrenpoint defence. Warrenpoint increased their lead to 9 points thanks to a goal from Tommy McNally and a great solo point from John O’Kane, taking it past 4 Castlewellan men before dispatching the ball over the bar with aplomb. A couple of points from the ever dependable Paul Brown kept the scoreboard ticking over.

At this stage Warrenpoint took their foot off the gas and Castlewellan showed their character by knocking over 4 unanswered points to close the gap to 5 points. However with Brian Murphy unchallenged between the sticks a 50 yard solo run and point from Tommy Mulligan took the game by the scruff of the neck and gave the team the lift they needed to see the game home in the last ten minutes. A late [and first] goal from Neil Dunigan gave a more favourable score-line for the Blues.

Neil showed that foreign sports are played not only in Croke Park but seemingly in Moygannon too, with a right-footed finish any Man Utd striker would be proud of.

The one concern raised by the management is the number of wides the team have been hitting in recent weeks. Some 15 wides from play plus a half dozen frees missed. On another day this might prove costly for either Warrenpoint [or the opposition if they all go over!] in the near future with some tough fixtures on the horizon.

The management would like to thank the Credit Union for their continued support for the Senior team this year, whose sponsorship and devotion to the team is greatly appreciated and welcomed.

1. Brian Murphy
2. Michael Murphy
3. Declan Doyle
4. Mark Rafferty
5. Eugene McConville
6. Ronan Mulligan [Captain]
7. Liam Og Rice
8. Tommy Mulligan
9. Conan O’Neil
10. James O’Hare
11. Paul Brown
12. John O’Kane
13. Michael Fegan
14. Barry Hanna
15. Tommy McNally
17. Neil Dumigan
18. Colm Cunningham
19. Stephen Burns
20. Kieran Rice
21. Aaron O’Hare

Report by Kevin Rice, Management

Point are well beaten by Killeavy but draw the match

Warrenpoint 1-9 Killeavy 3-3

Ulster League Division 4 fixture 26th May 2007, Killeavy

Tommy McNally 1-2
John O’Kane 0-4 [4 frees]
James O’Hare 0-1
Ronan Mulligan 0-1
Barry Hannah 0-1

Warrenpoint came away from playing a very dirty Killeavy team with a draw. The management were delighted with the overall display because despite late pulling and every dirty stroke in the game the team kept it’s cool in all but one occasion. Killeavy finished the game with 13 men but perhaps should have finished with 10. Warrenpoint had Colm McKee sent off after he was pulled across the legs while having the ball in his hand and he lost his patience and retaliated.

As regards the actual hurling on display Warrenpoint scored some excellent points from play. None better was 1-2 from man of the match Tommy McNally, who is finally starting to show the form and play that everyone in the squad knows he has. His running with the ball was outstanding and his turning and speed was just too much for any defender in his vicinity. Points from Ronan Mulligan and James O’Hare mean only four points in the first half which was a poor return for Warrenpoint as they had a lot of the play and tallied up about 10 wides. This meant that they were behind by 4 at the interval, but as they proved by being behind against Ballyvarley earlier in the week this team has plenty of bottle.

The second half dominance of Fergal McGivern and Liam Rice in the half back line and Ronan Mulligan and Conan O’Neil in midfield meant Killeavy had very limited opportunities to score It took a bit of individual brilliance from Tommy McNally to bring the game back to an even pegging. Collecting the ball 40 yards from goal he turned his man and ran straight through on goal. Despite the attention of 3 defenders he dispatched the sliotar into the bottom left corner of the net with aplomb, leaving the goal-keeper with no chance.

The full-back line with have to be stronger as if they continue to ship goals at this rate their chances of going places in the Championship will be hampered, though it must be said Killeavy never scored a point from play and the goals came from excellent dubious foul play from their full forward.

Team
Brian Murphy
Eugene McConville
Declan Doyle
Mark Rafferty
Colm McKee
Fergal McGivern
Liam Og Rice
Ronan Mulligan
Conan O’Neil
Tommy Mulligan
John O’Kane
James O’Hare
Michael Murphy
Stephen Burns
Tommy McNally

Subs:
Barry Hannah for Michael Murphy
Aaron O’Hare for Stephen Burns
Kevin Rice – not used

Report by Kevin Rice, selector

Senior Hurlers beat a battling Ballyvarley

Warrenpoint 1-10 Ballyvarley 1-09

Division 2 fixture 22nd May 2007, Moygannon

Paul Brown 0-5 [5 frees]
Conan O’Neil 1-1
John O’Kane 0-2 [1 Free]
Tommy Mulligan 0-2

This was a very closely fought contest between two very closely matched teams. It was a game played the way hurling should be played; fast, skillful, full-blooded and without a hint of dirty play and played throughout in a very sporting manner by both teams.

Warrenpoint started slowly but a free from Paul Brown after 10 minutes helped calm the un-needed nerves. Two more points from the dead ball by Brown and a fine point from John O’Kane meant that the Seasiders only trailed by a point at halftime. In fairness Ballyvarley would be kicking themselves because they could and should have been further ahead. Indeed the referee had the game down as 0-4 to 1-5, with a mix-up with an umpiring signal. This was cleared up at half-time when Gerry O’Neil, the Ballyvarley manager confirming to the ref Kieran McGuiness that the ball had gone wide, hitting the side netting. Credit where credits due to Ballyvarley’s sense of fair play and honesty in a closely fought match.

Warrenpoint came out the better of the two teams at the restart. Conan O’Neil, playing at half-forward, a new venture for him, had a brilliant 5 minute spell that swung the game in Warrenpoints favour. He firstly tapped over a silky score to equal the match and cracked in a great goal, pulling the sliotar from 15 yards into the bottom corner. This gave Warrenpoint a lead they never relinquished. Man of the Match Tommy Mulligan finally got some reward for his skill and effort with 2 finely taken points coming from midfield. This was followed by another expertly taken score from the ever improving and maturing John O’Kane, leaving Warrenpoint 4 points up with 2 minutes to go. Ballyvarley then went looking for a goal which they duly got leaving the game down to a single point difference. Deep into injury time Ballyvarley got a 65 which dropped right in front of the goal. This was plucked out of the air in the midst of a pile of players by one of the leaders of the team Liam Rice and when he had control of the ball the ref blew to end a find game.

Report by Kevin Rice, selector

Seniors beat Ballycran a bagful

Warrenpoint 1-15 Ballycran 0-2

Division 2 fixture 15th May 2007, Moygannon

Paul Brown 0-7 [0-4 free]
James O’Hare 1-2
John O’Kane 0-2 [0-2 free]
Tommy Mulligan 0-2
Liam Og Rice 0-1
Michael Fegan 0-1

A great team display by the Blues which is testament to the need for a large and adaptable squad. Overall display came from a dominating Half-Back line, with Centre full back Declan Doyle particularly impressive despite being pulled all around the defence.
The adaptability of the squad was clearly in evidence with Michael Fegan [usually minor goal-keeper] making his first start in the full forward line. The two man full forward line with Tommy McNally was particularly effective, with their speed and quick turns too much for the Ballycran defence. Though only one point came from both players that doesn’t in any way downplay the team performance they gave.
James O’Hare, Paul Brown and Tommy Mulligan were all over the place and their running and positional play meant the Ballycran team didn’t know where to go or who to mark.

The first half was easily the best put in by Warrenpoint this year, with some outstanding all-round moves involving three to four players at a time. Indeed the goal will easily be one of the best scored this year. Full back Mark Rafferty, experienced beyond his years, cleanly fielded the ball and laid it off to Eugene McConville. His run and stick pass to Tommy Mulligan was cleanly taken, whose darting run through two defenders was met by the on-running Liam Rice. He ran straight at the Ballycran defence and expertly hand passed to the waiting James O’Hare, who dispatched the shot into the bottom corner of the net. A goal worthy of any game at any level.

The second half was a much tighter affair, with Ballycran really upping their game and they certainly deserved more for their efforts that two points. However that doesn’t take away for the excellent defending on show and 1-9 from play is another excellent return. People like James O’Hare, Liam Rice, Tommy Mulligan were all taking excellent points from distance and under pressure.

Man of the match would have to go to James O’Hare, who is really starting to come into his own. His running and effort was superlative and, as mentioned before, too much for the Ballycran team. The management were extremely happy with the last two performances, commenting that the lesson has been learnt from the Portaferry defeat and that releasing the ball with speed and purpose is the key to beating the Ards teams.

Warrenpoint hold on for brave Ballygalget success

Warrenpoint 4-11 Ballygalget 4-9

Division 2 fixture 13th May 2007, Moygannon

John O’Kane 2-4
Paul Brown 1-4
Tommy Mulligan 1-0
Ronan Mulligan 0-1
Liam Og Rice 0-1
James O’Hare 0-1

In an enthralling and exciting game of hurling both teams fought hard for every ball, yard and for every score. The work rate and mentality of the players led to this victory, which was made all the more striking considering there was only a 16 man panel, due to the lengthening injury list and our Minor County Stars training.

The return of Fergal McGivern at centre-half back was the rock at which a lot of the play was based on, with his traditional fielding leading to most link up plays and moves out of defence and midfield. He was rightly named man of the match for another excellent performance.

The first half was played in a good tempo with both teams looking to play expansive hurling in the best of spirits. Ballygalget got off the better start; an unfortunate slip by Spud Murphy in nets and a rare mistake by Fergal McGivern led to two soft goals for the Ards outfit. But an immediate goal by the Blues and matching Ballygalget point for point meant only a goal separated the teams at half time.

That disguises the reality of who would have been the happiest team during the interval, as the Point knew the wind would be strongly on their backs in the second half and their tails were up. They made a blistering start to the half, with John O’Kane and Paul Brown particularly coming into the game. The movement of the forwards and the quality ball coming to them was too much for Ballygalget and a couple of goals and several points later Warrenpoint found themselves with a 9 point advantage. 6 players scoring from play was also an impressive statistic, with midfielder Ronan Mulligan and left-half back Liam Og Rice again getting on the score board.

However Ballygalget are a proud team and kept going to the end. They rhymed off two late goals that brought the winning margin down to two points, and they showed the fighting spirit and fitness that’s to be expected.

The overall level of play was good from both the older and younger players, with people like Michael Cunningham making his first start and Mark Rafferty superb in the full back line, deputising with aplomb for the injured Michael Murphy.

Despite a few soft goals from both teams this was an exciting game of hurling that anyone watching would attest to, and a performance the Seasiders can be rightly proud of.

Senior Hurlers have a poor showing in Portaferry

Warrenpoint 0-7 Portaferry 1-12

Division 2 fixture 8th May 2007, Portaferry

Scorers:
Paul Brown 0-5
Karl Maxwell 0-1
Liam Og Rice 0-1

This was a poor display on this occasion purely on the basis that it was a game that could and perhaps should have been won. The long travelling distance meant very few players got off the block quickly, resulting in a goal conceded in the first couple of minutes. The rest of the half was a cat and mouse game, with both teams firing over 3 points a piece.
The second half again was an even affair but the Ards teams experience in taking their scores was the difference. There were many occasions when the Warrenpoint forwards had time and space on the ball but wasted their opportunities. Portaferry took full advantage of the wind and their full-back placed all their puck outs in the full forward line. It’s hoped that with the lessening of the current injury crisis the team will be able to bolster the full forward line and bring in the experienced players that this young team is missing.

Man of the Match: Liam Og Rice, who was the one player on the point team showing any real enthusiasm. Scored a wonderful point at the second half which capped off a great performance.

Warrenpoint in impressive Ulster League victory

Warrenpoint 0-9 Iniskeen 0-4

Ulster League Division 4 fixture 5th May 2007, Moygannon

Scorers:
Paul Brown 0-5 (3 frees)
Danny Grant 0-2
John O Kane 0-1
James O Hare 0-1

Despite the low-scoring nature of this game this was a very good display by Warrenpoint against the reigning Monaghan Champions, who up until Saturday were undefeated in the Ulster League. Especially considering the fact that Warrenpoint are missing 9 seniors and Down Minors through injuries and retirements the depth of squad really came through.

The first half was a cagey affair, with Warrenpoint electing to play against the wind so they cold really press home the advantage in the second half. First on the score board was James O’Hare with an excellent solo run and finish between the sticks. The full forward line then proceeded to pass up on several easy goal chances that seemed easier to score than miss. Normally this might lead to the team panicking at the chances going amiss, but long range scores from Paul Brown and John O’Kane kept the point ahead.

Iniskeen however haven’t lost a game in 2007 and showed that with a mini comeback of their own. They knocked over a couple of frees and a point from their number 10 from midfield ensured the game was tied at half-time.

The Seasiders knew that the wind was in their favour and that they could really pile the pressure on to get the win that they needed, but proceeded to spend the first 10 to 15 minutes of the second half passing up chance after chance. It wasn’t only the forwards missing chances, even the midfield and half backs missed relatively easy chances to push away from the Monaghan outfit.

Iniskeen knocked over a free from midfield to put them a point ahead, but Warrenpoint proceeded to step up their game and totally dominated the last 15 minutes. Danny Grant, up until then quiet by his own standards, really stepped up to the mark, knocking over two points to push the game into Warrenpoint’s favour, and Paul Brown then saw the game home with several late points, confirming the dominance of the second half.

It has to be said that if Warrenpoint had have taken half their scores they would have easily scored 20 points, but credit where credits due Iniskeen never stopped fighting till the very end.

Man of the match really has to go to the entire half-back line, who were extremely strong the entire game. Only one point was conceded from play, the full back line, with Brian Murphy having only one save to make, was barely threatened and the quality of ball being supplied to the forwards was excellent. The defence kept their shape throughout, this despite the fact that both Barry Hannah and Eugene McConville had to come off with knocks.

This win know gives Warrenpoint the bench mark to qualify from their group and, with returns from injuries the squad to come, hopefully a squad of players that can make this a successful year.

Warrenpoint

Brian Murphy
Michael Murphy
Declan Doyle
Aaron O’Hare
Eugene McConville
Colm My Key
Liam Rice
Tommy Mulligan
Ronan Mulligan
John O’Kane
Paul Brown
James O’Hare
Danny Grant
Kieran Rice
Tommy McNally
Michael Fegan
Barry Hannah
Mark Rafferty
Martin Patterson

Disappointing defeat in Ulster league for seniors

Warrenpoint 1-6 Monaghan Harps 2-8

Ulster League Division 4 Fixture 21st April 2007, Monaghan Town

Scorers:
Kieran Rice 1-0
Karl Maxwell 0-4
John O’Kane 0-1
Conan O’Neill 0-1

A poor game played in poor conditions was all that could be taken from this Ulster league game. The long drive and loss of several key players certainly didn’t help but no excuses can be given after a lacklustre display by the Blues.
No real player stood out with any sort of good performance, though Brian Murphy will be pleased with some excellent saves midway through the second half, and he looked as comfortable and assured as ever.
Kieran Rice and Karl Maxwell were making their first starts of the season, and immediately made a difference, combining in the first minute to score a goal. However Monaghan hit back with a goal of their own. The game was played out in dreary conditions, probably resulting in the dreary performances of the players who lacked discipline throughout the game.
Certainly a vast improvement and something like the previous performances given in the last two games is required, and the next two home games in the Ulster League are must win games.

Battling Warrenpoint seniors draw at Castlewellan

Warrenpoint 1-8 Castlewellan 1-8

Division 2 Fixture 17th April 2007, Moygannon
Scorers:
Paul Brown 1-7 [1-3 frees]
John O’Kane 0-1

In undoubtedly the best performance yet from the seniors against recently relegated Castlewellan an extremely hard-fought game was played out in Castlewellan’s pristine pitch. The team showed great camaraderie throughout the game in the face of some vigorous tackling from the Castlewellan team.
The first half contained the best of the games scores and skills. Warrenpoint raced into a quick lead, obtaining a penalty when Michael Fegan was unceremoniously fouled in the goalmouth area. Paul Brown duly despatched the penalty. Some of the forward play was particularly impressive, with inter-linking moves that stretched the home teams defence to the brink. Warrenpoint went in one point ahead at half time, 1-7 to 1-6, which would have been greater if a late goal had have been stopped.
Castlewellan came out in the second half determined to prove themselves and the game descended into a defensive and midfield battle. Yellow cards were exchanged on both sides and both teams were reduced to 14 men. Warrenpoint were determined not to lose the game, and through the outstanding half backs Fergal McGivern and Liam Og Rice restricted the home team to just two scores, both from frees. The two half-backs commanded the defence with outstanding fielding and last ditch blocking.
John O’Kane came up trumps with a late score to tie the game, but some narrow wides meant the game could not be won which would have been a major scalp from the Blue and Whites.
Man of the Match has to go to Paul Brown for contributing so many scores, but special note would go to Declan Doyle, vastly improving in the full-back role in the long-term absence of Damien McConville and retirement of Liam Boyle, and of young Aaron O’Hare, a defender of real promise who battled like a man twice his seniority and size!

Narrow defeat for improving Blues

Warrenpoint 1-12 Na Magha 3-8

Ulster League Division 4 Fixture 14th April 2007, Mid Ulster Sports Arena
Scorers
John O’Kane 0-5 [5 frees]
Conan O’Neil 0-1
Allan Higgins 0-3 [3 frees]
Tommy Mulligan 1-1
Fergal McGivern 0-1

The best performance of the year from the Seniors was scant consolation in another narrow defeat by two points over an excellent Derry City team, Na Magha. The inability to press home the advantage when on top and to take scores when needed was the difference. A forward line with an average age of 19 is encouraging for the future and they showed plenty of effort and energy, but perhaps the lack of experience told in the end.
Leading by one point at half time after a superb free-flowing first half was probably about right, with both teams keen to play expansive and open hurling. The second half got off to a great start with an excellent score from Tommy Mulligan extending the advantage. But two soft goals by Na Magha from frees mid-way through the second half was the difference in the end. Fair play to the team for showing a never-say-die attitude and they followed that with some intense pressure. Three points down with five minutes to go and the seniors luck went against them. First Conan O’Neil hit the post and in the dying seconds Fergal McGivern grazed the crossbar, with the Sliotar going just over, and not below the crossbar.
A disappointing result but a sort of performance that would win 9 out of 10 games.
Special mention has to go to Barry Hannah and Tommy McNally, making their first starts of the year and equipping themselves well. Certainly with a bit more match practice they’ll improve and improve. Allan Higgins started at Centre-Half forward and scored three points, and excellent return considering his age – only 17 years.
Man of the Match goes to Fergal McGivern, superb in defence and a brilliant link to the forward line. Led the line with his usual assuredness and quality.

Warrenpoint Seniors Slip to narrow defeat against rivals Clonduff

Warrenpoint 2-5 Clonduff 3-4

Division 2 Fixture 10th April 2007, Moygannon
Scorers:
John O’Kane 0-2 [1 free]
Allan Higgins 1-1
Conan O’Neil 0-2
Liam Rice 1-0

Total Pressure from Warrenpoint in the first 15-20 minutes only brought one point, coming from a John O’Kane free. This lack of penetration came back to haunt the team at the end of the tightly fought game. Some sloppy defensive work found Warrenpoint trailing 1-2 to 2-3 at half-time.
Things got worse at the beginning of the second half when Warrenpoint were reduced to 14 men. A soft goal followed and the team found themselves 6 points down. However that was to be Clonduff’s last score of the game and Warrenpoint came back strongly to reduce the gap to 2 points, following a goal from Liam Rice.
Special mention must go to Allan Higgins who came off the bench in the first half to almost bring the points home for Warrenpoint, contributing 1-1 from play and continuing his early season form for minors/ seniors and the county.
A disappointing defeat against an experienced Clonduff team, but plenty of signs that a fruitful season awaits the seniors.

Warrenpoint Seniors off to winning start in Ulster League campaign

Warrenpoint 2-10 St Eunan’s 1-7

Ulster League Division 4 Fixture 7th April 2007, Mid Ulster Sports Arena

Scorers:
John O’Kane 0-7 [5 frees]
Paul Brown 0-3 [1 Free]
Tommy Mulligan 1-0
James O’Hare 1-0

The seniors began their Ulster campaign with a deserved but hard-fought game in the Mid-Ulster Sports Arena against Donegal’s St. Eunan’s. The ground for this victory came in the first ten minutes with Warrenpoint registering 1-3 without response. The full forward combination of John O’Kane, James O’Hare and Tommy Mulligan were too fast and skilful for the St. Eunans defence, with some superb points taken right off the training ground.

The game from there became a cat and mouse game with both teams struggling with the hard ground and fast pitch. St. Eunans came back at the end of the first half with a soft goal and started the second half with a couple of finely taken points of their own to get them within a couple of points of The Point, but subs Danny Grant and Alan Higgins came on to boost the forward line and earn some valuable frees. A goal for Tommy Mulligan in the middle of the second half secured the game for the point.

Special mention goes to Mark Rafferty who was making his first senior start for the club. Coming on the back of an impressive Under-16 year in 2006 and now making his appearance for the Down Minor ‘B’ team, he played right half back throughout the game and equipped himself well. Certainly a star for the future not only in his skill level but his attitude and commitment to improving all aspects of his game.

Man of the Match deservedly went to John O’Kane, now in his first year proper with the Seniors. Scoring 7 points in all, with five from play, he’s starting to show a maturity to his game that belies his youth; he took his scores with ease and calm, whether he was in full forward or half forward. Well done John and well done the Seniors for getting their campaign off to the right start.

Gerry O’Neil
P.R.O.

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Cumann Luthcleas Gael

St Peter's Gaa, Warrenpoint

SENIOR HURLING