Billy Fitzgerald Under 13 First Division Maree Oranmore 3 - 0 Colga Maree/Oranmore hosted neighbours Colga FC in their final fixture of 2009 on Saturday morning, and came away with all three points in an emphatic 3 – 0 win. In a game where Maree/Oranmore dominated from the start, only some stout defending from the Colga back four kept the home side from taking an early lead. Maree/Oranmore continued to press for the lead goal and were eventually rewarded when midway through the first half Assogba Moise took a good pass from Richard Noonan and sprinted away from the chasing defenders before finishing clinically to the back of the Colga net. The same player had a chance to double Maree/Oranmore’s lead when after a great run he fired just wide of the right hand post, leaving them only the one up at the break. The second half continued much the same as the first, with Maree/Oranmore continuing to create all the goal scoring opportunities. Eoin Fogarty, James Flanagan and Jonathan Fearon all went close to scoring before Nicholas Sheehan headed home from close range to finally put this game to bed. The introduction of substitutes Tom Hamilton Cillian Thompson and Liam Molloy resulted in the latter named scoring the games final goal, when he was quickest to react and poke home Maree/Oranmores third in a congested Colga goalmouth. This win leaves them unbeaten in the league in 2009, having won two and drawn two and in a good position to push for league honours in 2010. Under 15 Challenge Kinvara 2 - 4 Maree Oranmore Maree Oranmore travelled on Saturday 12th December to play Kinvara in a friendly game. We brought a panel of twenty players and all got a game. We will be due to meet Kinvara in the league after Christmas.Even though we won the game today it will be a different story in the league fixture.The goal scorers on the day were Marcus Quinn,Diego DeSoto (2) and Eoin Molloy.
Maree/Oranmore : E Heery, S Doyle, E Greaney, T McHugh, G Hawkins, E Fogarty, A Moise, J Flanagan, N Sheehan, R Noonan, J Fearon. Subs Used : C Kirrane, C Thompson, L Molloy, C Walsh & T Hamilton.
U-12 Irish Norton Cup - December 20th 2009.
MareeOranmore 2 Ballinrobe Town ( Mayo ) 3
In the final game of this year for Maree Oranmore U-12’s played out in Oranmore today, we had a thrilling match with both teams playing some wonderful football. Despite the fact that Maree Oranmore were defeated 3 -2, the high standard of the game was very important and will stand to this team in the upcoming league matches.It was an excellent day for the match and as usual the pitch looked well,with a good support from parents and loyal fans. From the beginning, the game was played at a high pace with Ballinrobe very sharp up front. In fact in the first 20 minutes of the half, Ballinrobe scored two excellent breakaway goals where they moved the ball at pace. However,Maree Oranmore played their usual passing game and it paid off when an excellent through pass by Sean Fogarty was well controlled by Andrew Connolly who, with his right foot, struck first time to the corner of the net. It was a deserved goal as Maree Oranmore had a number of attacks at this stage. Andrew C was carrying the ball well and a clever corner kick nearly resulted in Ronan Tully scoring. Sean Fogarty and Conor Folan were well tested by the pace of the Ballinrobe strikers but settled in well as the game went on. Both full backs Kieran McNamara and Conor Redington were also attacking well along the wings .However, just as Maree Oranmore were pushing forward for an equaliser, Ballinrobe counter attacked and even though Ross Brrnes made an excellent save parrying the ball to the side,the Ballinrobe forward slid in to make it 3 -1. Maree Oranmore were playing well and in fact had a
goal disallowed in the first half with a very marginal offside call so they were well
in it for the second half. In fact,the second half was no different to the first in the quality of play by both teams. Maree Oranmore were literally camped in the Ballinrobe half for the entire half but needed to be conscious of Ballinrobes counter attacking threat. However the pressure paid off when Luke Howley hit a beautiful volley to the roof of the net from a corner bringing the game to 3-2. Tim Carroll and Martin W were dominating midfield and both were working hard,passing with accuracy and tackling hard. Luke Howley and Ronan Tully were raiding along the wings with Ross Doyle and Andrew Connolly a constant threat. Fergal O ‘Dea, Damien O Reilly and Charlie Crowley were introduced which added more energy to the team. Damien chased every ball and Charlie Crowley constantly drove forward to put pressure on the Ballinrobe defence. Fergal settled in well at left back and was unlucky not to get a penalty late in the game. However, the game ended in a 3-2 victory and we wished Ballinrobe the best in the next round against Salthill Devon. They are a fine team and played the game in the correct spirit. For Maree Oranmore, they will get over this disappointment very quickly and now focus on the league. They played a high standard of football all through the game and if they maintain this level of quality, then they will have a very good league run this year.
2009 has been a great year for the team and a lot of credit must go to PJ Folan as manager of the team, the officials in the club who provide the background support and the parents who take time to bring their kids to the match. However a big thank you must go to the entire u-12 squad of twenty eight players who are a credit to work with and whose behaviour & attitude on and off the pitch is fantastic. All of these ingredients and luck will help this team to have another successful year in 2010.
Finally, a big thank to Liam Carroll for organising finger food for both set of players and officials in Keanes afterwards. It was greatly appreciated by all.
Happy Christmas and New Year 2010 to you all.
Panel: Ross Byrnes,Ciaran McNamara,Conor Folan,Sean Fogarty,Conor Redington,Luke Howley,Tim O Carroll, Martin W,Ronan Tully, Ross Doyle,Andrew Connolly,Fergal O Dea, Damien O’Reilly,Charlie Crowley.
Saturday, December 19th. 2009
Under 14 Connacht Cup
Straide & Foxford 1 - 5 Maree Oranmore
After two failed attempts we finally made it to county Mayo for our Connaught Cup clash with Straide&Foxford. Maybe it was the cold weather or the lack of a recent game that handed the home side two early chances that the Maree/Oranmore boys did well to survive, and after some prompting from the sideline we started to pass the ball around and make some headway against the young S&F side.We came close on a few occasions with our best play coming from our wide men Malachy Black and Shane Walsh and it was Shane who came closest with great wing play beating his man out wide left and cutting inside for a shot that flew just outside the post.Our central midfield pairing of Barry Smith and Alan Burke began to get a hold of the game and it was Barry who got the first goal on 20 minutes after good work from David Doyle Barry finished nicely with a great strike into the corner.David himself was not to be outdone and added a second with a lovely left footed volley beyond the 'keeper's reach. Half time 2 up. They say a 2-0 half time scoreline is a dangerous lead and the coaches kept the lads on their toes with a half time chat!! Room for improvement always!! The back four of Ronan Cullen, Sean Molloy, Luke Whelan, and Carl Howley whose Dad is a proud Foxford Man, played well as a unit with Luke and Carl taking no prisoners in their defensive duties. Declan O'Dea was next to score after some early chances going astry for him he finally got his name on the score sheet excellently lobbing the 'keeper from 20 yards. Now the fourth goal was lets say.... talked about on our way home; Malachy whipped a ball across the box Barry challanged for it missed the ball but his pressure caused the defender to head into his own net. (I guess that answers that Barry..sorry but well played). In goals Cathal Noone didn't have much to do in the second half but let's say a mix up and lack of verbals had him picking the ball out of his own net a reminder to all that we stay focused until the final whistle. A flurry of substitutions were introduced with Rory McIntyre shining on his club debut. Eanna O'Ceallaigh and Conor Devlin formed a new partnership up front and were unlucky to be caught offside on a few occasions, Ronan Fogarty slotted in at left back and did a solid job. Another substitute,Jack Greally scored the last goal in a 5-1 win when he attacked a corner kick by Shane walsh and finished high to the roof of the Mayo side's net. This team has a large panel of players -29 in fact -all of whom are dedicated and loyal to the cause, as we can only play with 11 and make 5 subs it is difficult for the coaches leaving guys out but we are trying to give everyone game time and they are a credit to themselves and as we keep saying: we are all together in this and we will ALL play our part....and its because of this we look forward to 2010 unbeaten in our league, quarter-final of the cup and the best of Connaught awaits us in the next round....have a Happy Christmas lads.Best wishes to you and your families ..Ian, Alan, Pat and JJ.
P.S A special thanks to the parents who helped last Tuesday night with the fundraising, and to Colm Whelan for his help today in Mayo. Cheers Guys.
Saturday, December 12th.
Irish Cup - Under 11
Maree Oranmore 1 - 3 Castlebar Celtic
The match on Saturday was our toughest match yet with Castlebar Celtic considered a very strong soccer team. They came out from the offset passing the ball quite well. We played a four-three-three formation to prepare for a tough game. Our lads held off the opposition for the first fifteen minutes until Castlebar scored their first goal and with their confidence building didn't have to wait long for their second. The half time score was 2-0 to Castlebar. In the second half a penalty was given to us. Jack Coyne was the one nominated to take the penalty. He took his time before striking the ball but when he did, the ball landed in the top left hand corner giving the goalie no chance of saving it. Jack Coyne played exceptionally well along side Keelin Eyers and a few others. The boys started playing as a team with some lovely set pieces. The pressure started to be shoved back on Castlebar. We had alot of opportunities to score, but it wasn't to be. The play in the second half was superior with good ball control, speed and team work. The final score was 3-1 to Castlebar.Hard luck to the lads in putting up a good battle.
Team: Fergal o Ceallaigh, Adam Cox, Oisin Doyle, Diarmuid Byrne, Jack Coyne, Michael Kennelly, Keelin Eyers,Niall Boyle, Luke Byrnes, Nathan Lynskey, Eoin Rockall, Declan McCormack,Rian Maher, Sean Reddington, Stephen Commins
Saturday, December 12th. 2009
SFAI Goodson Cup - Under 14
Salthill Devon 2 - 0 Maree Oranmore
Maree Oranmore U14’s suffered their first defeat of the season against premier side Salthill Devon A in the SFAI cup. This match was played in Salthill Devon’s fabulous facilities in Drom and despite the inclement weather the pitch was in excellent condition.The home side played some excellent football from the start and put the Maree/Oranmore defence under constant pressure in the first 15 minutes, however the excellent goalkeeping skills of Cathal Noone helped to keep them out. The Maree Oranmore lads settled down as the half progressed and despite some good crosses from winger Shane Walsh there was no one there to finish them off.
In the second half the Maree Oranmore lads started to pass the ball much better however any chances were quickly snuffed out by the steady defence of the home side. A lapse in concentration mid way through the second half led to two easy goals for Salthill Devon and the Maree Oranmore lads never looked like they were going to break through the home defence after this. The lads were disappointed after the game as they knew they could have done better. however it was a good test of the progress made this season and the coaches are hoping to build on this in future matches.
Full Squad: Cathal Noone, David Smyth, Barry Smyth, Ronan Cullen, Peter Galowski, Carl Howley, Bryan Hannify, Neil O Donoghue, Malachy Black, Jack Greally, Eoghan Conneely, , Ronan Fogarty, Declan O Dea, Robert O Grady, Colm Doody , Fiachra McHugh, Shane Walsh, Eanna King, Conor Devlin, Cillian Beirne, Alan Burke & Rory McInerney
Under 8 Girls Challenges versus Salthill Devon
Maree / Oranmore U8 Girls hosted Satlhill Devon with 3 very exciting games contested in the Cages in Oranmore on Saturday. Thankfully the rain held off for the most part for our young ladies to display their never give up spirit! The first match was won by our girls 1-.0 with an impressive goal from a well taken free by Lisa Blaney! The girls battled hard but were unlucky to loose the second match 2-.0. The final game was a real battle with Satlhill Devon taking victory with a 2-1 result!All of the Maree / Oranmore girls played exceptionally well, with strong performances from Laura Aherne, Lisa Blaney, Verona Crowley and Mairead McHugh. With each game the girls are growing in confidence and will host Colga on November 28th.Many thanks to Pat Lawless and the Sathill Devon team for a very sporting game! We look forward to an away trip to Drom soon.
Squad: Meabh Carr, Molly Qualter, Caitlin Fitzmaurice, Aoife Geraghty, Kayleigh Slevin, Alison Murphy, Ella Greaney, Dara Walsh, Mairead McHugh, Verona Crowley,Laura Aherne, Lisa Blaney, Niamh Creane, Eilish Carr.
U8 Boys Blitz v Colga
Maree / Oranmore Colts 2:0 Colga A Scorers Donal Higgins and Conor Carroll
Maree / Oranmore Colts 3:0 Colga B Scorers Hubert Costello, Sean Neary and Fionn Duffy
Maree / Oranmore Tigers 1:1 Colga B Scorer Conor Hynes
Maree / Oranmore Tigers 1:2 Colga A Scorer Kevin Horgan
Maree Oranmore U8s visited Colga's new facility in Clarinbridge on a miserable wet Saturday. Both clubs had enough players for 2 sides and the Maree Oranmore teams split up into Tigers and Colts in a repeat of last seasons invitational tournament. Luckily the rain disappeared for the afternoon and matches got underway on time.
Tigers made it difficult for themselves with a disorganised first half against Colga B and went to the break 1-0 down following a fine long range shot that went in off the post. In a game of two halfs a much improved second half saw a more dominant performance from a strong midfield of Kevin Horgan, Ben Wright and Alex Feelan, and it was Alex that played a great ball to Conor Hynes who hit a low shot from the right across the goal and in to the far corner to bring the scores level. Of particular note was some excellent defensive marking by Hugh Kilgannon and Ciaran Burke with Jason Meehan in goals stamping out any Colga pressure. A fair result in the end.
Tigers second match was dominated Steven Gerrard style by Ben Wright who ran his heart out chasing after the ball, tackling back, controlling midfield and supporting the attack. David Walsh also excelled in this match showing great determination down the right. Unfortunately Colga managed to go ahead in the first half again but constant pressure from Maree Oranmore up front from Oisin Quinlan reaped dividends in the second half with a great move down the left hand side. Kevin Horgan was bearing down on goal from a tight angle on the left and instead of going for the cross he buried the ball past the goalies near post. In an evenly contested last few minutes it was Colga who struck late on to take the points after a thoroughly enjoyable game.
The victorious Colts of last season were reunited again on Saturday for what was to be another successful outing. In wet and cold conditions the U/8s battle hard against a determined Colgan outfit and quickly overcame any unfamiliarity with the greasy grass surface. Although victorious in both games, it was to be the first game that was to test their mettle to the fullest. A stout and resolute defence saw David McCarthy, Tom Dolan and Hubert Costello deny the Colgans any chance to threaten Donie Higgins goal. It was Conor Carroll who was to break the dead lock with a rasping shot low beyond the reach of the despairing Colgan keeper. Try though they endeavoured they could not break through a highly mobile and influential midfield of Josh Byrnes, Fionn Duffy and Cian Flanagan. Even thought there were sweeping positional changes at half time the determination of the Colts continued and mid way during this half Donie struck again for the Maree / Oranmore outfit. His shot from all of thirty yards flew passed the keeper and burst out through the net. Try as they might the Colgan attack were no match for the tenacious Sean Neary and Vincent Hornak who succeeded in denying them any space in which to operate. 2-0 was the final outcome of this thrilling match.
Buoyed on by this success the Colts went on to further triumph when they went into action against Colga B. An early goal signalled our intent. An expertly executed corner floated in by Donie was sweetly met by the leaping Hubert. Climbing highest the power of his header rattled both the net and the opposition. Constantly harried by the telling insertions of Donie and David on the wings with Josh, Cian and Conor harassing their central defence it was not long before the Colgan resolution began to waver. There was only going to be one outcome when the ball landed at Sean’s feet after a goal mouth scramble. From twenty yards a low pile driver brought the score to 2-0. It was not until mid way during the second half that we were to further increase the score. Again from an impossible distance Fionn pivoted, eyed the goal and let fly with a cannon ball that sealed the game. In fact it was only as a result of some determined defence which prevented the ever vigilant Tom and Vincent from increasing the score.
Well done to both Maree/Oranmore sides for excellent performances in harsh conditions and all looks well for the upcoming invitational tournament.
U10 Challenges: Maree/Oranmore AFC vs Colga FC
With the rain sheeting down and the wind buffeting the Atlantic coast throughout Friday night it was a tight call as to whether or not we should proceed with the proposed challenges on Saturday morning. Following prolonged deliberations we decided to go ahead and it turned out to be the correct decision as the rain thankfully stayed away for the duration of our matches. Maree/Oranmore fielded four teams and Colga fielded three and the two clubs proceeded to serve a 90 minute extravaganza of total football (OK, I'm pushing it now!). It started well for the home club with Maree/Oranmore drawing their first game and winning the second on Pitch 1 but Colga had gained the upper hand by winning both of their matches on Pitch 2. Colga retained their advantage to the end of the session by winning three of the remaining four matches with Maree/Oranmore prevailing in the fourth. However as with our previous challenge matches against Salthill Devon there was very little to choose between the two clubs. All of the games were keenly contested and a single goal decided the outcome in most of the matches. Nothwithstanding the results our lads can be very proud of themselves for the committment and enthusiam they showed on the day. For the record our goalscorers were Matthew Barrett, Sean Boyle, Cathal Duffy, Cian Manning and Luke Smyth (2). A special mention also for our goalkeepers Robbie Commins, Damian Sharry, Daniel O'Neill and David Wall. Our failings in this department were highlighted in my report after our recent challenges against Salthill Devon. Consequently this was something we worked on in training over the last few weeks and it seems to have paid dividends with some solid goalkeeping performances this time around. Save of the day undoubtedly goes to Robbie Commins who produced a splendid one-handed save in the opening minutes of the first match on Pitch 1. Outfield there were notable performances from Adam Rooney (M/O I), John Burke (M/O II), Eamon Flynn (M/O III) and James Cahalane (M/O IV)
Results:
Pitch 1
Maree Oranmore IV 1 Colga 1
Maree Oranmore II 1 Colga 0
Maree Oranmore IV 1 Colga 2
Maree Oranmore II 0 Colga 2
Pitch 2
Maree Oranmore III 0 Colga 1
Maree Oranmore I 0 Colga 2
Maree Oranmore III 1 Colga 2
Maree Oranmore I 2 Colga 1
Teams:
Maree/Oranmore I: Daniel Fitzmaurice, Conor Fogarty, Darren Hennigan, Matthew Kilgannon, Kevin Maguire, Cian Manning, Daniel O'Neill and Adam Rooney
Maree/Oranmore II: Sean Boyle, John Burke, Aaron Connolly, Dara Folan, Sean Higgins, Sean Monaghan, Matuesz Pawlowski, David Wall
Maree/Oranmore III: Alan Costello, Stephen Coyne, Dominic Curley, Sean Fallon, Eamon Flynn, Dylan Gallagher, Alan Moran, Sean O'Rourke, Damian Sharry, Luke Smyth
Maree/Oranmore IV: Matthew Barrett, James Cahalane, Brendan Commins, Robbie Commins, Cathal Duffy, Ross O'Sullivan, Conor Mullins, Oisin Stapleton
Coaches: Dominic Delany, Mark Smyth, Joe Sharry, Fintan Manning, Kevin Kilgannon
NOTE: Apologies to those who did not receive a text for these matches. The games were only organised on Wednesday morning so we were unable to inform the players at our Tuesday evening training session. I know of three players who were disappointed to miss the games and there may be a few more out there who did not receive a text. All 50 players registered in this age group were sent texts so I can only assume that there was some technical hitch in the transmission of same.
Friday, October 30th. 2009
SFAI Norton Cup - Under 12
Maree Oranmore 5 - 4 Temple Villa
This was an absolute thriller of a match where both teams gave it their all and played all out attacking football. The day cleared up nicely for the game and the visiting team from outside Athlone showed great skill from the beginning of the match. Maree/Oranmore opened the scoring with a great run from Andrew Connolly who crossed the ball for Tim Carroll to score from 5 metres. However, Temple Villa came back in style and levelled the game with a deserved breakaway goal. Then later on , Maree/Oranmore got a free from the right-hand side, with a well struck shot from Andrew C hitting the corner of the net. However, true to form , Temple Villa Came back and levelled before half time to leave it 2-2 . Chris O Dowd was a having a very solid game on his debut as centre half and well assisted by Conor Folan ( a seasoned CF at this stage ) , with good cover from both full backs Conor R and Ciaran Mc. The second half was similar to the first with end to end action. Maree/Oranmore got a corner and from the resulting cross Luke Howley hit a screamer of a volley to the roof of the net. Luke in fact was man of the match as his endless running and passing was a delight. Back come Temple Villa with another goal and showed how good a team they were with great inter passing. So at this stage, it was 3-3 and the crowd was enjoying every minute of this game. Nial Tuohy and Damien O Reilly were introduced for Ciaran Mc and Andrew C respectively. Both were having good games and had run their socks off but their replacements also showed great skill and effort. Ronan Tully and Tim Carroll were doing great work in midfield. As usual Ross Doyle and Fergal O'Dea were working hard up front so it was clear that more goals were coming in this game. Then a beautiful through ball by Luke Howley played Ross Doyle in on goal and he tucked the ball to the corner of the net. As expected, Temple Villa came back to level it again.Then, the winning goal for Maree/Oranmore came when a great cross from the wing, hit off a Temple Villa defender into the net. There was nothing he could do about it and it was the final score in this epic match. No matter the result , this game was full of skill, good passing , some great goals and great entertainment from beginning to end. Congratulations to both teams and to Temple Villa for making the long journey to display such wonderful football.
Panel: Ross Byrnes, Ciaran McNamara, Conor Folan, Chris O Dowd, Conor Redington, Luke Howley, Tim O Carroll, Andrew Connolly, Ronan Tully, Ross Doyle, Fergal O'Dea, Nial Tuohy, Damien O’ Reilly.
Saturday, October 31st.
Under 15 Top Oil First Division
Maree Oranmore 4 - 1 Oughterard
MareeOranmore had come into this game on the back of two defeats. The game for the first twentyminutes was evenly matched. Oughterard scored first from a twenty yard shot. Maree Oranmore responded to this and they stepped their game up a notch. D. O'Brien received a pass from D. DeShoto, he skinned his marker and from the edge of the box tried to lob their 'keeper who somehow managed to tip it over for a corner. We had all the possession in the final ten minutes of thefirst half and with eight minutes to go B.Tully dribbled his way into the box and from the tightest of angles he chipped the keeper..one all.Into the seconed half and Maree Oranmoredominated the game. Ten minutes in D.De Shoto played a lovely one-two with S.O'Toole and fromthis D.De Shoto shot from twenty five yards out two one to Maree Oranmore. B.Tully and D.O'Brienwere causing havoc for the Oughterard back four. D.O'Brien had a long range shot but it just wentthe wrong side of the goals. M. Quinn had a couple of long range efforts. Maree Oranmore werepushing forward for their third goal and it came from B.Tully. With five minutes left B.Tully picked up the ball just outside Oughterard's box; he beat his marker and shot... four one to Maree Oranmore. This was B. Tullys hat-trick. This was a great performance from Maree Oranmore.
Under 11 Kevin Power Cup
Hibs Foyle 5 - 4 Maree Oranmore
Saturday's match against Hibs Foyle away was to be a battle as we had played Hibs Foyle a couple of weeks ago in a challenge match and lost badly although we we were missing a few of our players. The lads were very focused at the beginning of the game with Jack Coyne scoring a rocket of a shot putting it into the top left hand corner putting us on the score board with the first goal. Marking was tight but with a break in the Hibs Foyle defence minutes later, Eoin Rockall from the mid field got through to score the second goal giving us a two goal lead. The lads played some nice soccer using the wings and capitalising on the full use of the pitch. This paid off by Luke Byrnes scoring goal number three giving us a comfortable lead. Just before half-time, Hibs Foyle received a penalty. This confused us as we were not sure why they received a penalty. On the half-time whistle, the score was 3-1 to Maree Oranmore. In the second half, Hibs capitalised on their chances by scoring four goals in succession, one of which was from another penalty. The score was 5-3 to Hibs until minutes before full time when we were awarded a well deserved free just outside the box. Keelin Eyers went to the ball to take it while Hibs felt there was no threat. They were in for a surprise when Keelin shot the perfect ball right over the keeper into the top right hand corner. The lads fought for the ball right up until the final whistle when the score ended 5-4 to Hibs Foyle. Our lads did us proud on the performance they gave with the closest of margins. Pat & Rob
Girls Under 8 Challenges in Cregmore
Despite the inclement weather & it being their first match on grass, the Under 8 girls gave aspirited performance against Cregmore on Saturday, October 31st. The girls who made the trip played with plenty of heart & determination! Many thanks to all the parents who came out to support the girls on Saturday and a special word of thanks to Wally Walsh & Noel Greaney for their assistance! Their next game will be at home to Salthill Devon on Saturday, November 7th -Under 8 Girls to meet at Astro Turf at 1.45pm for kick off at 2pm
Fiona Holland - Slevin & Niall Mannion
(Under 8 Girls co-ordinators)
Saturday, October 25th. 2009
SFAI Goodson Cup - Under 14
Maree Oranmore 4 - 1 Ballyheane (Mayo)
Maree Oranmore U14’s continued their winning start to the season with a 4-1 home win over Mayo side Ballyheane in the first round of the SFAI Cup. This match was played in some of the worst conditions seen this year with a gale force wind blowing across the pitch. With the wind advantage in the first half Maree/Oranmore took the lead after 10 minutes when Colm Doody scored his first goal this season after the Mayo side failed to clear the ball following a through ball from Shane Walsh. A second goal followed shortly after the Ballyheane goalkeeper dropped the ball after a well taken shot from Barry Smyth. Despite the conditions the Maree/Oranmore lads played some good football in the second half against the strong wind. David Doyle scored a great goal after 15 minutes as the Ballyheane defence pushed forward leaving gaps at the back. Ballyheane's centre half scored a penalty after one of their players was taken down in the area, however a further goal from Shane Walsh sealed the win for the homeside. The lads now face their toughest challenge of the season with a second round tie against Salthill Devon.
Full Squad: Barry Smyth, Ronan Cullen, Peter Galowski, Carl Howley, Bryan Hannify, David Doyle, Eoghan Conneely, Luke Whelan, Ronan Fogarty, Declan O Dea, Robert O Grady, Colm Doody , Fiachra McHugh, Shane Walsh, Eanna King, Conor Devlin, Sean Molloy & Cillian Beirne
Saturday, October 18th. 2009
Connacht Sentinel Under 11 Premier League
Maree Oranmore 2 - 2 Craughwell United
Goalscorers: Luke Byrnes & Rian Maher
Connacht Sentinel Under 11 First Division
Maree Oranmore 1 - 4 Oughterard
Goalscorer: Aaron Connolly
Billy Fitzgerald Under 13 First Division
Ballinakill United 1 - 1 Maree Oranmore
Maree/Oranmore U13s made the long journey out to Ballinakill on Saturday morning last and, in a match played out in perfect conditions, came away with a draw. The first half was an evenly-matched affair with few clear-cut chances for either side and it was no surprise when it ended scoreless at half-time.
The second half started with Maree Oranmore going on the offensive from the kick-off and after a period of sustained pressure took the lead after five minutes. The home side failed to clear and Jonathan Fearon managed to get the vital touch to put the ball over the line after a goalmouth scramble. Maree Oranmore had a few half chances to extend their lead but failed to take them. The home side always threatened and finally got their reward with seven minutes left when the Maree Oranmore keeper, Eoin Heary, came out bravely to intercept a through ball on the edge of the area but unluckily was unable to hold onto it. The Ballinakill striker was first to react to the loose ball and from a tight angle managed to direct the ball home despite the valiant efforts of Tony McHugh on the line. There was still time for either side to find the winner and Maree Oranmore almost managed to do so right on the stroke of full time when Cillian Thompson saw his shot from the edge of the area flash just past the post – the referee blew the full time whistle on the kickout. However on balance this was probably a fair result between two evenly-matched teams.
Top Oil Under 15 First Division
Lakeside Celtic 4 - 0 Maree Oranmore
Maree Oranmore travelled to Loughrea on Saturday morning looking for their third league victory of the season but unfortuately we did not get the points. Despite a spirited effort from Maree Oranmore we lost 4-nil. Lakeside Celtic scored two goals in the first half and if truth be told we were lucky to be only two-nil down at half time.
Into the second half and the management team made one or two tactial changes but this did not work and with sixty minutes on the clock Maree Oranmore were three-nil down. We never made Lakeside Celtic make one save in the match. With seven minutes left Lakeside Celtic had a quick counter attack and from this they scored four-nil. Maree Oranmore are capable of a lot more than what was displayed at this game and it is hoped that by our next game we will be back on track again.
Girls Blitz Hosted by Cregmore Claregalway F.C.
We were invited by Cregmore Claregalway to join in a Blitz involving our two clubs and Colga for Girls born in 1998, 1999 and 2000. We agreed to divide two squads as evenly as possible on age grounds.
Under 10
Cregmore Claregalway 0 - 1 Maree Oranmore
Maree Oranmore 6 - 1 Colga
Maurice Hannon took his coaching bow as mentor of the younger squad. Spurred on by his brand of magic, these girls accounted for our hosts in their opening match wih Ailish Carr joyously despatching the crucial score. In their next encounter they took on the Colga girls who had patiently waited for the first match to play out. The Maree Oranmore girls, having benefitted from the tough clash against Cregmore Claregalway, found their rhythm quickly and scored freely through a hat trick from Ciara Fogarty, a brace from Alison Blayney and Ailish Carr (delivering a return of a goal a game). As well as the aforementioned, this squad had a solid backbone in Kelley Neary and Grainne Galvin at the back, with Gina Tucker, Eabha O'Rourke, Laura McNulty, Rachel Connolly and Sarah MacDermott further forward, all denying their opponents in both games the chance to get a foothold. A tremendous couple of results for these girls and a sparkling debut for Coach Hannon.
Under 11
Cregmore Claregalway 2 - 0 Maree Oranmore
Colga 4 - 0 Maree Oranmore
The Under 11 girls faced much tougher opponents than the Under 10s. Taking the field without a number of the usual contributors, and a recognised goalkeeper, the girls were under constant pressure in both encounters. Ciara Geraghty, Kristina Dugic and Laura Shivnan did well to keep the attacks at bay. The girls more than held their own in the first quarter against Cregmore Claregalway but having appeared to have done enough to clear a corner, the ball was returned with interest to give the hosts the lead goal. Rachel Burke, Fanni Debreceni & Katie Smyth worked tirelessly in midfield to try to get Maree Oranmore back in to the game, but the pressure told as Cregmore Claregalway were awarded a penalty which they duly despatched. Lauriana Mercure (moving upfield) and Chloe Moolee were instrumental in making us more competitive in the second half, but we still struggled to create enough chances or to capitalise on those that did arise. Laoise Walsh, Leah Naughton and Emma Keelan all played their part in keeping us at parity with Cregmore for the second half. In the second game against Colga, the earlier defeat seemed to deflate our girls a bit. Colga grabbed a couple of early goals that dampened our spirits even more and while all of the girls battled 'till the final whistle and a couple of genuine scoring opportunites came our way, we were just short of making the necessary breakthrough that might have got us back into the tussle.
Thanks and Credit to Dermot Coll and all at Cregmore Claregalway F.C. for hosting us once again in their great home venue. We hope they had a great evening afterwards as they celebrated the year for their club.
Saturday, October 11th. 2009
Under 15 First Division
Maree Oranmore 2 -4 Cregmore Claregalway
Maree Oranmore came in to this game on the back of two victories in the league, so confidence was high.We were playing a team who came joint first in this league last year. What a start Maree Oranmore got off to. Within five minutes Maree Oranmore were one nil up. The goal was scored by Diarmuid O'Brien who picked the ball up just outside the eighteen yard box, he turned, beat the defender and ran towards the Cregmore Claregalway goal. Their keeper advanced to narrow the angle but Diarmuid placed the ball past him into the bottom right hand corner of the goals. About two minutes before that Shane O'Toole received a pass from Marcus Quinn. Shane ran at the Cregmore Claregalway defence and when he was at the eighteen yard box he let fly with an almighty shot which hit their cross bar. Maree Oranmore were playing with great determination. In the first fifteen minutes wewere keeping the Cregmore Claregalway defence busy. Shane O'Toole and Brendan Tully had a couple of shots at their goal. In the fourteenth minute Diarmuid O'Brien received a lovely pass from Brendan Tully. Diaramuid again ran at their defence, he beat two players and tried to go past the 'keeper. Diarmuid shot with his left foot and the ball hit the post and rebounded back into the 'keepers arms. Cregmore Claregalway got a corner in the twentieth minute and from this they scored to make it one all. After the equaliser our heads dropped and we were second to the ball.
At half time Maree Oranmore got a good roasting from their coach. Maree Oranmore came out a lot more determined and this paid off as Brian Walsh scored a cracker of a goal with his left foot. Brian Walsh made a run down the left side of midfield and played a ball into Brendan Tully. Brendan controlled the ball turned his marker and shot first time only for the ball to hit the cross bar and go over. Cregmore were piling on the pressure and in the thirtieth minute Cregmore Claregalway had an attack and from this they went three two up. With a few minutes left we pushed up to try and get the equaliser but were caught on the counter attack and they scored again four two. Game over. Even though we lost our season is far from over.
Under 13 First Division Cup
Athenry 4 - 3 Maree Oranmore
Maree/Oranmore U13s lost their first game of the season when they travelled to Athenry on Saturday morning to contest this 1st Division cup tie. Athenry were quickest out of the blocks and were one up after 2 minutes when they scored from their first corner of the game. This goal sparked Maree/Oranmore into life and with Moise, Flanagan & Noonan pulling the strings in midfield it was the away side who took control of the game with two quick fire goals midway through the first half. The equalizer coming from Moise and the lead goal from Johnathan Fearon, who was unlucky not to score a third when having rounded the keeper his goal effort from a tight angle came back off the upright. Having dominated the first half Maree/Oranmore went in at the break level when the referee gave the home side a lifeline, awarding a penalty for Athenry right on the stroke of half time.
Maree/Oranmore found themselves trailing once again, when for the second time in this game they failed to clear an Athenry corner. To their credit Maree/Oranmore responded well and had Athenry on the back foot once again as Greaney, Sheehan and Hawkins pushed the Oranmore side forward in search of goals. The equalizer finally came in the last five minutes of this match when Nicholas Sheehan was quickest to react to a loose ball in the Athenry box. It was now looking like it would take extra time to separate these two teams, however Maree/Oranmore were dealt a cruel blow, when Athenry scored from another corner deep into injury time , leaving the home side elated and Maree/Oranmore to ponder on how they did not progress to the next round in a game they had dominated everywhere bar on the scoreboard.
Maree/Oranmore : Eoin Heary, Sean Doyle, Agsoba Moise, Eric Greaney, Gearoid Hawkins, Johnathan Fearon, Nicholas Sheehan, James Flanagan, Eoin Fogarty, Cathal Kirane, Richard Noonan. Subs Liam Molloy, Andrew Connolly, Tim Carroll.
