Our incredible hurling year comes to an end

On Sunday in Mallow our hurling year ended when we lost out to Ballygiblin in the Munster junior hurling final on a scoreline of 2-14 to 1-09. It wasn’t our day but when the dust settles, we can reflect on a year of huge progress with a 10th South and 2nd County titled annexed.

Two second half goals from Ballygiblin’s Sean O’Sullivan cancelled out Adrian English’s strike in the opening half and proved to be ultimately the difference. The team was in contention all through and with no more than two points separating the teams at the end of the first three quarters, it was the 1-05 to 0-02 salvo in those last 15 minutes that ultimately settled the outcome. We had chances in that final period but over the hour we can have no complaints and the better side came out on top.

We have the bonus of looking forward to intermediate hurling again in 2022 and with a squad of players who are more than capable of making a huge impression on proceedings. We are extremely proud of the players who performed heroically throughout the campaign and served as incredible ambassadors for the club. The management team of James Lacey, Eamon Maher, Joe English and Paul Brennan gave everything all year to support the players and the team were looked after expertly by Grainne Treacy as physio.

It’s raw now but the achievements will be remembered for a long time to come and Sunday’s outing, while ultimately unsuccessful, will be spoken about for years. The support in Mallow and throughout the campaign has been incredible. We thank everyone who supported, sponsored and took time to pass on their goodwill messages. We are indebted. This is the start of the journey not the end so let’s stay behind the team as we continue our 70th anniversary in 2022. Ultimately the spoils belong to Ballygiblin and we extend our congratulations and best wishes to them as they progress to the All-Ireland series against Fullen Gaels of Manchester in the semi-final.

Skeheenarinky team and scorers: Aidan Treacy, Seamus O’Callaghan, David Hyland, Eoin Morrissey, Fionan O’Sullivan, Riain O’Callaghan, Oisin Brennan, John O’Callaghan, Darragh Brennan 0-01, Dean Finn (Harry English 51’), Mikey Maher (Tommy Sweeney HT), Conor Sweeney 0-01, Adrian English 1-00 (Christy English 55’), Tomas Vaughan 0-07 (0-07f), Noel Vaughan. Subs: Anthony Crotty, John Ryan, Kevin O’Mahony, Paudie Fitzgerald, Shane Molan, Tom Martin, James Hackett, Paddy Cole, Aidan O’Donovan and Tadgh O’Mahony. (Unavailable JD O’Brien and John Martin).

FIRST GOAL COMPETITION

The first goal in the game on Sunday was scored in the 22nd minute. Adrian English’s strike has won €100 for the lucky owner of ticket number 22. Please reach out to the seller and we will present the winner with their prize. Thanks to everyone who participated.

MUNSTER HAMPER RAFFLE

The Munster Hamper Raffle took place last Wednesday night and the winners were as follows: Hamper Winner – Noel Vaughan, Signed Hurley and Sliotar – Mary Moloney, 2 x Munster Club Final Tickets – Lorraine Hackett. Thanks to everyone for supporting the raffle and congratulations to the winners.

LAST MAN STANDING

The club is starting a fresh Last Man Standing competition for the premier league games slated for the weekend of Jan 21st.

There will be a €500 prize pot on offer to the winner. Players and committee members are taking entries now at a cost of €10. Please support if you can.

TRAINING FUND SPONSORSHIP

We want to extend a huge and sincere thanks to everyone who has supported the club’s training fund over the past number of weeks. We are indebted to the individuals and businesses who have supported us so generously. Our virtual sponsors wall has been posted on our social media pages.

EXPRESSIONS OF SYMPATHY

The community was rocked by three deaths over the last week with the passing of Patrick ‘Paddy Flags’ Connolly, Harry English and Phyllis Begley. We extend our thoughts and prayers to the families, extended families and friends of Paddy, Harry and Phyllis. May they rest in peace.

We must extend a special mention to Harry’s son Harry who togged out and played on Sunday in Mallow under such sad circumstances. It showed courage and strength. We were grateful that the Munster Council allowed us to honour the occasion with a moment’s silence before throw-in.