Saturday, December 13th. 2008
Under 14 Top Oil First Division
Maree Oranmore 4 -1 Lakeside Celtic
Maree/Oranmore came into this game on the back of two bad performances. The coaches were looking for a better performace from their players for today's game. We made two changes for todays game. We moved Diarmuid O'Brien from right midfield and played him as striker along side Brendan Tully. Niall Eames slotted into the right midfield position. Maree/Oranmore started the brightest in this game and within three minutes we were one nil up. Shane O'Toole won the ball in midfield, he played a lovely through ball to our strikers and Diarmuid O'Brien ran on to it and took control and blasted into the back of the net. The whole team were playing with determination that they were not going to get beaten again. Diarmuid O'Brien had the game of his life, he was causing havoc for the back four of Lakeside Celtic. The second goal came from another fine tackle by Patrick Canning in midfield, who played the ball in over the top and Diarmuid used his pace to run on to it. He raced to the end line and put in a great cross and Marcus Quinn volleyed it first time into the back of the net. Two nil up for Maree/Oranmore. Our back four were looking very comfortable and never looked under pressure. Jack McHugh our centre back broke up an attack from Lakeside Celtic, he carried the ball forward and played a lovely ball to Diarmuid O'Brien who took it in his stride and advanced to the opposition goal and he took aim and shot, we went three nil up just before half time. Into the second half and we carried on playing some lovely passing football. Diarmuid O'Brien was causing problems with his pace and in the first ten minutes he had scored two more goals only for the ref to call both off side. Brendan Tully created a chance for himself at the edge of the box only for his shot to go the wrong side of the post. We made two changes in the first ten minutes of the half. We brought on Declan O'Dea for the tired Diarmuid O'Brien and also Darragh Cawley came on for Shane O'Toole. The lads slotted into their positions and played very well when they came on. As happens in games Lakeside Celtic created a few chances in the second half. Cathal Noone made some important saves. Lakeside Celtic got a free kick in our half and from this they scored, three one. Maree Oranmore picked up the pace and within six minutes were had scored to make it four one. Brendan Tully ran across to put the central defender under pressure as he was coming out with the ball and from this Brendan won the ball and headed towards the goals and cooly slotted the ball home with his left foot. With a few minutes left we brought on Jack Hamilton and Niall Geoghegan who played well when they came on. The game finsihed four one to Maree/Oranmore.
Saturday, December 06th. 2008
U-13 Premier League
Maree Oranmore 1 - 1 Colga
Maree/Oranmore Under 13 Premier Squad played an exciting 1-1 home draw against local neighbours Colga on Saturday 6th Dec. Both sides were looking forward to a good game; Maree/Oranmore had beaten Oughterard in their last league match and Colga under 13 team were under new management and keen to impress. A very frosty morning thankfully warmed up a bit to allow the game to take place, thanks to Tom Broderick who came down twice to line the pitch.
The home side did all the playing in the first half but went one nil down after 20 minutes. However Declan O’Dea immediately scored with a great strike after a great through pass from Conor McNevin to make it 1-1. The turning point in the match cam when Ronan Fogarty stepped up to take a penalty which the Colga goalkeeper managed to save.
The second half was very competitive with Niall Geoghegan coming on for the injured Barry Smyth. David Doyle came on with 20 minutes to go and scored a great goal only for the ref to disallow it for offside. Our defence had to work overtime in parts to keep out Colga, Sean Molloy had an outstanding game at left back. Neil O’Donoghue and Ronan fought well at centre half. Overall a 1-1 draw was probably a fair result, and the crowd was well entertained right up to the final whistle.
U-13 First Division
Maree Oranmore 1 - 3 Corofin
Following the recent draw against Colemanstown, the U13 B team were hoping to take all three points in this encounter. Unfortunately it was the visitors that took all three points as the home side found it difficut to make any impact. The home defence were unable to clear the ball which led to an early goal for Corofin. Despite some great work from Peter Galowski in defence, a defensive mix up from a well taken corner handed the visitors a 2-0 lead with an own goal. Following a stern talking to at the break the second half showed some improvement for the homeside with some good individual displays from Eoin Fogarty and Jonathan Fearon as well as Eric Greaney on his goalkeeping debut for this team. Eoin Fogarty scored a great goal early on in the half, however the Maree/Oranmore lads failed to get into the game and Corofin managed a third goal to make it too big of a hill to climb. The management team will be going back to the drawing board on the training pitch and hoping for a much better performance in the next outing.
Full Squad: Eric Greaney, Sean Doyle, Jonathan Fearon, Jonathan Jennings, Peter Galowski, Colm Doody, Malachy Black, Fiachra McHugh, Eanna King, Eoin Fogarty, Cian Walsh, Eanna O Cheallaigh, Jamie Costello, Evan Lyndsky, Enda Tuohy, Oisin Galvin, Cillian Beirne.
U-11 Premier League
Maree Oranmore 0 - 5 Salthill Devon 'A'
Maree Oranmore suffered their first league defeat to an excellent Salthill team that passed the ball with great skill and effect.There was no shame in this defeat and all of us involved know the standard we must reach and also know that this team will do just that .
From the start Salthill set the pace and very quickly got into their passing rhythm, using both wings to good effect. Within 10 mins they were 2-0 and Maree Oranmore were struggling to stay with them. However MareeOranmore battled on and began to put more pressure on the Salthill defence.But by half time , the score was 4 – 0 and Ross Byrne was very unlucky to see his excellent effort to save a shot bounce off his hand into the net for the fourth goal.
PJ Folan was able to get the team together at half time and restructure the team to good effect. The introduction of Tim Carroll in midfield and Chris O Dowd to forwards worked and the second half performance from Maree Oranmore was far better and far more true to their ability. Maree Oranmore had a number of chances in the second half and a very dubious penalty in the half allowed the score to climb to 5-0. The entire panel was used and the team did grow as the game went on, and, as happened in all games, they never gave up. Conor Folan had an outstanding game as centre half and some of his tackling was excellent. Ross Byrne in goal was once again very good and made a number of outstanding saves. In midfield, everybody worked hard and Ross Doyle ran his socks off throughout.
This team should be very proud of their performance and always continued to play soccer throughout the game. The squad and management will learn and grow from this and all of us involved in the team will now work hard to see how we can help bring everybody to the necessary level. This team has now seen both victory and defeat so we will see in the coming months how we all react. Every team have wobbles from time to time and hopefully, there will be no “ Roy Keane look in the mirror” moment from the manager.
Team Squad: Ross Byrne, Conor Redington, Sean Fogarty, Conor Folan, Luke Howley, Ronan Tully, Tim O Carroll, Andrew Connelly, Christopher O Dowd, Ross Doyle, Damien O Reilly, Ciaran McNamara, Fergal O‘Dea, Eanna Corry, SangSong Du.
Galway Bay Seafoods U-13 Premier League
Maree Oranmore 2-1 Oughterard
Goalscorers: Shane Walsh & Conor McNevin
U-11 Irish (Menton) Cup
Barna 2 - 1 Maree Oranmore
Goalscorer: Tim Carroll
Maree Oranmore suffered their first defeat of the season with a 2-1 defeat to a fine Barna team in Barna last Saturday. Again the standard of football was quite high and though Oranmore Maree never got into their normal passing game, Barna fully deserved their victory.
Maree Oranmore had the standard back four of Ciaran Mc, Conor Folan , Sean Forgarty and Conor ready and in action very early. While both teams took time to settle, Barna got off the mark early in the first half with a break down the left wing. The resulting cross looped over the Ross Byrne in goal and there was nothing he could do about it. However, the team did not lie down and continue to push hard for an equalizer driven on by a midfield of Eanna Corry, Andrew Connolly, Tim Carroll and Ronan Tully. In fact two chances were saved off the line and a string of excellent saves from the Barna 'keeper prevented Maree Oranmore coming on level terms. Barna also had their chances and Ross in goal pulled off a fine save in the first half.
However, the team continued to push hard in the second half and Andrew Connolly and Damien O Reilly worked hard up front. Barna pressed on also and as Ross Bryne in goal made a number of excellent saves, he was very unfortunate to see the second goal for Barna slip from his hands into the net. Chris O Dowd and Fergal O Dea were introduced up front and Maree Oranmore pressed on. They did pull one back late in the second half with an fine individual goal from Tim Carroll. However time ran out and there was great disappointment when the final whistle went. Barna did deserve their victory and best of luck to them in the next round. They are a fine team, who play lovely football and a good management team over them.
However, from defeat you must take positives and all the team and management will learn from this. Oranmore Maree, as in every game, never gave up and continued to play some wonderful football. We are still in a good position in the league and it is here that we need to build and learn our trade. This team will continue to look at performances, not results at all times and they can be very proud of their efforts on Saturday.
A final word of thanks to the parents who turned up on the team to offer support to the team and to the referee who had an excellent game, even if he did pull for very marginal offside against us on a couple of occasions.
Team Squad: Ross Byrne, Conor Redington, Sean Fogarty, Conor Folan, Luke Howley, , Ronan Tully, Tim O Carroll, Andrew Connelly, Christopher O Dowd, Ross Doyle, Damien O Reilly, Ciaran McNamara, Fergal O‘Dea, Eanna Corry,Darragh Manning
November 16th 2008 .
U11 Development Match
Oranmore/Maree 4 Craughwell 6
We had a very exciting match last Sunday in Craughwell where both teams played some wonderful football and provided lots of goals.
David Martin lined out in goals and made some brilliant saves all through the game.
In the centre of defence, Patrick Cantwell and Song Sung Du had excellent games and cleared the lines on many occasions.
In fact Patrick laid on the great pass for Fergal O’Dea to score his second goal.
Gearoid Noone and David Dillon had excellent games in the full backs positions and played the ball out well when required.
In midfield, Ronan Sweeney and Shan McGuire showed great promise and passed the ball around very well. A lot of the attacks came from both these players and they continued to play well all through the game. Introduced to midfield at half time were Charlie Crowley and Nail Tuohy (replacements for Conor Folan and Conor Redington) and they kept up the high standard in midfield
Up front, Darragh Manning and Fergal O’Dea always looked a threat and made great runs throughout the match . In fact Fergal scored a hat-trick, with an excellent penalty in the end to give him a man of the match performance.
Sean Redington and Conor Forgarty were also introduced during the second half and despite the fact that they are still U-10 players, they show great promise for the future.
As in all games at this level, performance is important and not results.
The standard of football was very high from both teams and a credit to all involved. There is a large pool of talent in this squad and we will have many more matches during the season where players can continue to show their skills.
Also big thank you to Craughwell for the excellent “common sense” refereeing of the match and having the pitch available for the game. We hope to have a game against them soon in the coming weeks.
Finally, thanks to coaches, parents and players for taking time to participate in this game.
Team Squad
David Martin, Gearoid Noone, Patrick Cantwell, Song Sung Du, David Dillon, Ronan Sweeney, Shane McGuire, Darragh Manning, Fergal O‘Dea, Sean Redington, Conor Fogarty, Conor Redington, Conor Folan.
U-12 Challenge Match
Maree Oranmore 4 - 3 Colga
Goalscorers: Liam Molloy & Cillian Thompson 2 each
Saturday, October 18th. 2008
Connacht Shield
U12
Hibs / Foyle 1 - 5 Maree Oranmore
Maree/Oranmore U12s travelled to Bohermore on Saturday last and followed up their victory on the road against Athenry in the last round of this competition with another commanding performance away from home. It is fair to say that the result could have been even more comprehensive given the control they had on the game for all bar a 10 minute spell midway through the first half. In a game played in lovely conditions MareeOranmore started brightly and, despite missing a few of their regular first team, most notably their centre back pairing of Greaney and McHugh, the visitors took the game to their hosts even though playing against the wind, and had a couple of chances to take the lead but failed to take them. However with the new centre back pairing of Kirrane and Noonan coping well with everything that Hibs/Foyle could muster and being ably supported by Sheehan and Fearon in the corners it seemed only a matter of time before their efforts would be rewarded as the new look midfield of Doyle, Thompson and Molloy were winning the battle and allowing the wide men of Carroll and Fogarty to break forward with purpose to give plenty of support to lone striker Andrew Connolly.
Midway through the half Hibs/Foyle sent in a testing high ball which swerved with the wind but goalie Cian Walsh made a fine catch and held onto the ball under pressure. MareeOranmore however failed to take heed of this warning and against the run of play Hibs/Foyle took the lead when taking advantage of a long ball behind the away teams defence. Spurred on by this goal Hibs/Foyle had what turned out to be their best spell of the game and almost doubled their advantage but Walsh made another fine stop. Shortly before half time MareeOranmore got the break that their earlier play deserved when first Andrew Connolly and then a couple of minutes later Tim Carroll produced two fine strikes to turn the game around.
MareeOranmore made no changes at half-time and started the second half as they finished the first by putting the home team under pressure and forced a couple of corners and free kicks. The hard work paid off five minutes into the half when Hibs/Foyle failed to clear a corner and midfielder Cillian Thompson struck the ball neatly home from 15 yards out. The game was put out of the home sides reach a few minutes later when Carroll got his second of the match and his sides fourth goal when he sent in a cracker of a shot from the left wing which finished in the right hand top corner – definitely the goal of the game. MareeOranmore made their only changes shortly after with Tully and Greaney replacing Molloy and Doyle. MareeOranmore were now well on top and Thompson got his second of the match when he was again in the right place to finish off from close range after the home side failed to clear another corner. From there to the finish MareeOranmore had a number of chances to add to their tally while the home side were restricted to sporadic breaks.
The management team of Greaney, Molloy and Thompson were extremely satisfied with this performance, particularly given the changes to the starting lineup, which shows that the squad is beginning to develop the depth necessary to challenge for honours at the end of the season.
U14
Glenview Stars (Sligo) 0 - 4 Maree Oranmore
Maree/Oranmore made the long journey to Sligo to play Glenview Stars FC in the first round of the Connaught Shield Cup. This was going to be a tough challenge as we came into this game having been beaten on penalties in the first round of the Irish Cup. We had a small squad travelling up to this game. We brought Conor McNevin who normally plays with the U13's. He had an excellant game and also scored one of the goals. It was a tough game but Maree/Oranmore settled into it even though they had been on the road since ten that morning. We had a small squad and some of the players played in positions that they do not normally play and they did extremelly well. We went two nil up in the first half with goals from Jack McHugh and Brendan Tully. Again, the second half was a battle as Glenview Stars FC came out fighting and we had to defend extremelly well for the first fifteen minutes in the second half. Our backs played exceptionally and kept Glenview Stars FC from scoring. After that fifteen mintues of attack from Glenview Stars FC Maree/Oranmore seem to come into the game and with goals from Declan O'Dea and Conor McNevin we ran out winners with a score of four nil. Well done to the players and coaches who travelled and it was great to travel all that distance and get a victory.
Girls U9 Challenge Matches
Cregmore Claregalway 1 - 0 Maree Oranmore
Cregmore Claregalway 0 - 1 Maree Oranmore
In a couple of previous encounters with Cregmore Claregalway, there has never been more than a single goal between the sides and that history was repeated in Cregmore on Saturday morning. Despite a number of counter attractions and fixtures in other codes we still travelled with 18 players to renew our local rivalry with our hosts. Both matches were very keenly and fairly contested with Cregmore Claregalway making the breakthrough midway through the second half of the first match to snatch a deserved victory. In the second game Rachel Burke broke through midway through the first half to score the game's only goal and earn an equally deserved victory for us. We were very well served in all areas of the pitch with birthday girl Ailish Carr and Anna White excelling as goalkeepers. Ciara Walsh, Laura Shivnan, Rachel Connolly, Claire Talbot, Laura McNulty, Grainne Galvin and Maria Thompson worked very hard defending stoutly. Emer Hannon, Ciara Fogarty, Gina Tucker and Rachel Burke (Oranmore) were trojan in midfield, while Laoise Walsh, Rachel Burke (Maree), Ashling McNulty and Katie Smyth posed a constant threat upfront. Thanks and fair play to Dermot Coll and the Cregmore Claregalway squad who played two intense games with quite a few less players than we had available to us.
Saturday October 11th.
U11 Premier League
Maree Oranmore 5 - 2 Hibs / Foyle
The good form of the U11s continued on Saturday ( Oct 11th ) with a hard fought 5-2 victory over a very skillful Hibs/Foyle team. A hat-trick by Damien O’ Reilly and a goal apiece from Ross Doyle and Andrew Connolly secured the 3 points for Maree Oranmore.The team had a number of changes from previous matches where Kelvin Olayemi made his debut at centre half with Conor Folan and Fergal O Dea started his first game up front. Both players did very well and will continue, like the rest of the players to be a huge part to this team for the seasons to come.In the first half, Maree Oranmore pressed hard to score and were in command for most of this half. They went 2 -0 up after 15 mins with goals from Ross Doyle and Andrew Connolly. However, Hibs brought themselves back into the game with some excellent play and responded with a well taken goal before half time. A number of player and positional changes were announced at half time with Sean Fogarty brought to his usual centre half position, Tim Carroll to midfield and Damien O’Reilly to centre forward. But in the second half Hibs/Foyle deservedly drew level with a neatly taken clip over Ross Byrne. In fact only for some excellent goalkeeping from Ross and stout defending by Maree Oranmore, Hibs could have taken the lead and perhaps pull away. But again, this team, as it has done in the past, continues to work hard, keep its shape and play attacking football. Three goals from Damein O’Reilly (one a neatly taken header) restored Maree Oranmore’s grip on the game and we ran out winners in the end. Good work from all the back four where Patrick Cantwell did very well when introduced at right back in the second half. Captain for the day Conor Redington had a great run in the latter stages of the game and Ronan Tully continues to run at the defence at every opportunity. The midfield still hassled and show great interplay to set up attacks which allowed the game to flow from end to end. Up front, the forwards were always dangerous and showing for the ball which accounts for the good scoring average they have in all the games.
The management can be very happy with this team effort to date and the sheer hard work and skill they show in every game. The team is always told that performance is the main things and the results will follow.This team will meet Hibs / Foyle again in the Cup in two weeks where a huge effort will be required again to stand any chance of getting over this skillful Galway city team.It must also be added that the refereeing of the game was excellently handled. Finally, a word of praise to the people involved in setting up the pitch, and having it in such great condition.
Team Squad: Ross Byrne, Conor Redington, Sean Fogarty, Conor Folan, Luke Howley, Kelvin Olayemi, Ronan Tully, Tim Carroll, Andrew Connolly, Christopher O Dowd, Ross Doyle, Damien O Reilly, Patrick Cantwell, Fergal O‘Dea
U-13 First Division
Ramblers 4 - 3 Maree Oranmore
(Goalscorers - Tony McHugh x2 & Cian Walsh)
The Maree/Oranmore Development side made the journey to Leitrim outside Loughrea for their second game in the Division one league. The Maree/Oranmore lads started strong playing with the light breeze, they kept the homeside under constant pressure in early encounters with this finally paying off following a fine strike from Tony McHugh. The back four put up a fine performance also with the captain Peter Galkowski and Sean Doyle keeping the Ramblers best efforts at bay, however a lapse in concentration allowed the homeside to equalise in the dying moments of the first half. The second half was an equally exciting encounter with both sides equally matched. Ramblers scored first followed by another great goal from Tony McHugh. While Ramblers then went 3-2 up substitute Cian Walsh equalised shortly after coming on the field. Ramblers got the winner in the last few minutes of the game leaving it too late for another Maree/Oranmore comeback. Although impressed with some fine individual performances the coaches were disappointed with the final result and leaving with no points. The coaches and team would like to thank Ramblers for the tea, sandwiches & cakes provided in the clubhouse after the game.
Sunday, October 12th.
Under 9 and Under 10 Girls Challenge Matches versus Salthill Devon AFC
22 of our girls had their first floodlit fixture on Sunday (October 12th.) when visiting the hallowed turf of Salthill Devon AFC in Drom. The home side dominated both matches from start to finish but our girls gave heroic displays and never flagged in bravery or committment as they grew accustomed to the challenges presented by playing in the fantastic facilities available to our welcoming hosts. Some of our troop had a couple of previous visits to Drom in the spring, but even those few had only one earlier experience of playing matches in the "cages" - a fully enclosed pitch where the ball stays in play when it rebounds off the surrounds. This is not to detract from Salthill's superiority in every area of the exchanges and some valuable lessons were learned by our girls in terms of composure on the ball, positional sense and ruthlessness in front of goal. There was much food for thought to take back to the training ground but a very worthwhile visit for all, most of whom were encountering competitive action for the first time. Sincere thanks to the many parents who turned out to support the girls efforts' and gave warm vocal encouragement throughout. Finally a word of thanks to Salthill Devon AFC and in particular, Pat Lawless who has extended a welcome to us once more and shown us what we can aspire to.
The Maree Oranmore U-9 and U-10 Girls squad which took part in a double header recently against Salthill Devon AFC:
Front Row L-R: Rachel Connolly, Claire Talbot, Dara Walsh, Maria Thompson, Katie Smyth, Emer Hannon, Caoimhe O'Donoghue, Anna White, Ciara Fogarty, Jade Greaney.
Back Row L-R: Grainne Galvin, Ashling Neary, Lorna McNulty, Chloe Guinnane, Laoise Walsh, Ciara Geraghty, Laura Shivnan, Isobel Monaghan, Shauna Fitzmaurice, Rachel Burke, Rachel Burke, Ailish Carr.
Coaches: Brenda Monaghan, Brian O'Donoghue and Wally Walsh
Saturday, October 04th. 2008
Saturday, September 27th. 2008
U-11 Irish (Menton) Cup
Corofin 1 - 6 Maree Oranmore
The current good run of results for the U11 squad continued last Saturday when they had a deserved win over a spirited Corofin team in their home pitch. However, the game didn’t start well for us when centre half Conor Folan had to be replaced early with a knee injury. Conor has been a tower in the defence to date but his replacement, Luke Howley had an excellent game. Sean Fogarty gave a man-of-the- match performance in the centre of defence and it laid the foundation for this great win.
Within 8 minutes, Maree Oranmore took the lead when Ross Doyle followed in on a pass to the box to slot the ball home.Within another three minutes, the team was 2 nil up when great work by Damien O’Reilly laid a great ball for Andrew Connolly who smashed home from 11 metres.The team continued to grow in confidence and pushed for a third which finally arrived with good work from Ronan Tully, Ross Doyle and was neatly finished by Damien O Reilly. Corofin came roaring back and good saves from Ross Byrne in goal kept a clean sheet and maintain our lead. But just before half time, Corofin’s good work was rewarded with a neatly taken goal to put the score 3-1 at half time.
During the interval, wise words form PJ Folan and Fintan Manning steadied the team for the second half and they pushed on from there.Maree Oranmore continued to attack in waves and each player worked hard to create chances. Then an excellent move along the wing allowed Ross Doyle to cross for Christopher O Dowd to chest home. A wonder strike from Tim Carroll later on from over 20 metres extended the lead and a final goal by Damien O Reilly finished the game at 6 -1.
This was another good team performance and credit to all involved. Replacements Ciaran McNamara, Patrick Cantwell, Rian Maher and Darragh Manning performed very well when introduced so the panel continues to grow in strength. Everybody in the team should be happy with their performance and as long as they continue to do their best , then nobody will care too much about the results.
Squad:
Ross Byrne, Conor Redington, Sean Fogarty, Conor Folan, Luke Howley, Charlie Crowley, Ronan Tully, Tim O Carroll, Andrew Connelly, Christopher O Dowd, Ross Doyle, Damien O Reilly, Ciaran McNamara, Patrick Cantwell, Rian Maher. David Dillon
Scorers: Damien (2) Ross (1) Andrew(1) Tim(1) and Christopher(1).
Maree Oranmore 2 - 1 Colga
The Maree/Oranmore Under 13 premier side achieved a memorable first win of the season on Saturday 27th September with a hard fought 2-1 win against local neighbours Colga in the first Round of the FAI Under 13 Troy Cup.
This was this side’s third match of the season and the results continue to improve. Despite missing some key players the squad remains strong and competitive.
Maree/Oranmore fell behind to a fine headed goal in the first half and went into the break one nil down. However they came out fighting and David Doyle equalised shortly into second half. The second half saw constant pressure on the Colga goal, with several goal line clearances. With four minutes to go Maree/Oranmore launched another attack and this time Luke Whelan managed to head a fine goal past the very impressive Colga goalkeeper.
This was a fine solid performance from everybody especially Neil O’Donoghue and Ronan Cullen at centre half, Ronan Fogarty in midfield and Niall Geoghegan up front. Shane Walsh put in a tireless performance. Congratulations to David Doyle and Barry Smyth for keeping cool under pressure!
U11 Premier League
Corofin 0 Maree Oranmore 4
Our U11 team’s good fortune continued this evening in a tropical Corofin where they secured an excellent 4-0 victory over the home team. Once again, the team showed great spirit and skill which has served them well in the past and should in the future.From the beginning,the team pressed on to score and it took a while for the front men to find the range on an excellent Corofin pitch. However, encouraged by the team manager’s mantra that "performance not results" are important, the first goal fell to Maree Oranmore in the tenth minute.A well worked move from midfield fell to the feet of Damian O’Reilly who picked his spot and drilled the ball to the bottom corner from 15 metres. Corofin began to press into attack and a solid performance by Conor Folan at centre half continued to block out any attack. Indeed Sean Fogarty and Conor Folan are working out very well in the centre and throughout the game were ably supported by Chris O Dowd and Conor Redington. Numerous chances fell to both sides and Ross Byrne once again had an oustanding game in goal with a number of top class saves. Maree Oranmore’s second goal had an element of luck with it where a clearance by the Corofin ’keeper was charged down and fell at an angle to Andrew Connolly. However, with still a bit of work to do, Andrew steered the ball home from an angle to give the team a 2-0 cushion at half time.
Calm words at half time by PJ Folan and Fintan Manning settled the team for the second half where again, all the team worked hard to keep Corofin under pressure. Again, in a very open game, both sides had loads of chances .The midfield centre partnership of Tim Carroll and Andrew Connolly continued to dominate that area where Chris O Dowd and Ronan Tully continued to pose a threat on the wings. The third goal for Oran/Maree was just reward for all the hard work by the team where a well worked moved fell to Andrew who once again hit an excellent shot to the net. Once again the team pushed forward for a fourth where great running and dribbling skill by Ross Doyle, Tim Carroll and Damien O Reilly nearly produced that elusive goal. The introduction of Darragh Manning nearly produced an instant reward where Darragh had worked himself into his usual goal scoring position only for the cross to be just a bit high for him to slot home. The fourth goal finally arrived when the ball fell to the skillful Ronan Tully to drive perfectly to the bottom left hand corner past a good Corofin goalie. That is how the game ended and both management and team can be very proud of their efforts to date. Lets hope the team can continue to produce a good performance and do themselves proud over the coming months. It must also be added that the refereeing of the game was excellently handled where common sense and understanding allowed all to enjoy the game. Finally, a word of praise to Corofin for the way their team played and the excellent conditions of their pitch.
Saturday, September 13th.
U14 League
Renmore 1 v Maree/Oranmore 0
This is the second game in the league but the first game that Maree/Oranmore have played as we got the points in the first fixture because Hibs/Foyle could not field a team.
Maree/Oranmore made the journey to Renmore and the two teams served up a great game of soccer. Maree/Oranmore started off the better and had Renmore on the back foot for the opening fifteen minutes. In the first few minutes Diarmuid O’Brien had an excellent shot from about 20 yards but the ’keeper had it covered all the way. Maree/Oranmore kept up the pressure and when Marcus Quinn was picked out by an excellent through ball from Patrick Canning (Captain) he headed straight towards Renmore’s goal. He passed one defender and looked to shoot but a great tackle was made by one of Renmore’s defenders. After fifteen minutes Renmore put together an attack and our ’keeper Cathal Noone made a great save from their attempt at goal.
Maree/Oranmore were awarded a free kick about 40 yards out. Patrick Canning took the free and put in a great cross only for Renmore’s keeper to save from a Cian Hogan header. Maree/Oranmore were putting together some lovely passes. Cian Hogan picked up a ball inside his own half and played a great ball for Brendan Tully to run on to - Brendan took the ball, ran to the corner and played in a great cross but unfortunately Declan O’Dea could not get to the cross and the ball was cleared. On the 29th minute Darragh Cawley picked up a knock and had to be substitued, Brian Hanniffy came on in his place. In the last few minutes of the first half Diarmuid O’Brien picked up a ball from a bad clearance by Renmore and made a great strike at goal but the ’keeper had it covered all the way.
Into the second half and again Maree/Oranmore started off the quickest; Brendan Tully was really getting into the game and had a few shots at goal. Our ’keeper again made some fine saves from the Renmore attacks. Our back four of Cian Smith, Patrick Canning, Cian Hogan and Michael Cleary were really working as a unit. On the thirteenth minute Diarmuid O’Brien picked up the ball in his own half and raced towards Renmore’s goal, he beat one player then another and played a great ball for Brendan Tully to run on to. Brendan took control of the ball and headed towards Renmore’s goal, their keeper came racing out to close down the angle and there was some quick thinking on Brendan’s part as he chipped the advancing keeper but the ball just went the wrong side of the net. Diarmuid O’Brien was substitued and Jack Hamilton took his place. The game was heading into the last ten minutes looking like a nil all draw when our players did not close down quick enough on a Renmore attack and from the edge of the box they shot and scored. As in all sports you need to be concentrating 100% all the time. Maree/Oranmore brought on Garon Byrnes and played with three strikers to try and get something from the game. Unforunately, Renmore held on for their victory but I do think a draw would have been a fairer result. There will be alot more to come from this team as the season progresses if they continue to play as they did in this match.
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U-12 Premier League
Cregmore Claregalway 4 - 0 Maree Oranmore
Maree/Oranmore U12s lost their second match in a row when they made the short trip to Cregmore and were comprehensively beaten by the home side who were on top throughout. In fact it took Cregmore just a minute to take the lead when on their first attack their centre forward managed to kick the ball while on the ground after the Maree/Oranmore ’keeper, Cathal Kirrane, had came out and bravely blocked his initial attempt but the Cregmore striker showed great composure in finishing off despite falling to the ground in the challenge. The Maree/Oranmore ’keeper was injured in the collision but recovered after treatment. However Cregmore continued to dominate and extended their lead after 10 minutes. From there to half-time Maree/Oranmore battled bravely to contain Cregmore, but with a two-goal cushion their opponents were playing with a confidence that Maree/Oranmore just could not match and it was no surprise when Cregmore extended their lead from a corner right on the stroke of half-time; however it was tough on Maree/Oranmore who had looked like they were going to hold out until the break without conceding any more.
Maree/Oranmore changed their midfield at half-time, bringing out Cathal Kirrane from goal and replacing the other midfielders Richard Noonan and Cillian Thompson, both of whom had tried hard with little success, with Andrew Connolly and Daire McGrath to try and get a grip on the game in this key area. Ross Byrne replaced Kirrane in goals. The changes seemed to rejuvenate Maree/Oranmore initially and indeed they would have pulled a goal back 10 minutes into the second half but for a great save by the Cregmore ’keeper from a Nicholas Sheehan shot. However this seemed to stir up the home side who added their fourth and final goal a few minutes later. Maree/Oranmore made their final change shortly after, replacing the overworked Eric Greaney at centre back with Cian Walsh, but it made little or no difference and indeed the home side had numerous chances to add to their tally but failed to take them.
In a match where they never really got going Maree/Oranmore were best served by their left full back, Jonathan Fearon, who made many timely interceptions and clearances in a man-of-the-match performance and he was ably supported by Sean Walsh on the other side. The remainder never really played to their potential and it leaves coaches Thompson, Fogarty and Greaney with their work cut out to pick them up for their next match at the weekend.
U11s KICK OFF IN STYLE
Our U-11s began their Connacht Sentinel Premier League campaign with an emphatic 5 - 0 win over Colga in Oranmore on Monday evening (September 01st.)
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Meanwhile the failure of their opponents to field over the weekend saw both the U-12 & U-14 sides being awarded 2-0 victories by the Galway & District League.
September 01st. 2008
Connacht Sentinel U-11 League
Maree Oranmore 5 Colga 0.
Not alone have the U-11s started back on a new term at school but their journey in life has taken another major step as they played their first U11 match in the Galway & District League. With thumping hearts, biting nails and a bag full of nerves, the team management prepared for the biggest day in their sporting careers.
As regards the Maree/Oranmore U11 players, they faced Colga with hope, adventure and a desire to play the game to the best of their ability. From the kick off, both teams played excellent football and pushed forward continuously to get the opening score. The Maree Oranmore midfield of Tim Carroll, Rian Maher and Chairle Crowley combined well to set up the first attack for Oranmore after 8 minutes. This fell to Andrew Connolly, who hit a sweet long range shot into the Colga net. It as a great start for the team and about 7 mins later, the ball broke loose to Damien O’Reilly where he calmly struck the ball home from three metres. Two nil down midway through the first half inspired Colga to continue to attack to get one back. Colga played some excellent football and only for great defensive work by Maree Oranmore centre-halfs Conor Folan and Sean Fogarty , it could have been 2- 1. However, they were well assisted by the two fullbacks, Conor Redington and Chis O’Dowd who put in some timely tackles along the wings. Throughout the first half, Maree Oranmore pushed forward and Ronan Tully and Damien O Reilly showed some great dribbling skills and interchange passing which nearly resulted in a couple of more goals. However, at half time, it remained 2-0 to Maree Oranmore.
A heavy shower just before half time did not dampen either teams enthusaisim to play good football and Colga pushed hard again for a goal. However an excellent series of passes from midfield allowed Ronan Tully a clear run on goal with the Cogla ’keeper. With minmum space, Ronan slotted the ball with his trusty left foot to the bottom corner , much to the joy of all his teamates and all involved. It was now looking good for the team and powered by an excellent overall perfermance by Tim Carroll and Andrew Connolly, Maree Oranmore moved forwrd to see if they could build on this lead. Colga pressed forward and only for excellent saves by Ross Byrnes in goal, they surely would have got two goals back. At this stage, Matthew Shiel had been introduced in midfield and John Flaherty came on in the left full back poistion. Eanna Corry went to right fullback and the new pairing of Ross Doyle and Darrag Manning went up front. Despite all these changes, the team coninued to play some wonderfull football and a beautiful chiiped ball by Andrew Connolly put Maree Oranmore into a 4-0 lead. Colga continued to press but it was fitting that Andrew would secure his hat-trick with a long range effort in the closing minutes.
The game finished with a 5-0 vctory but Colga were unlucky not to a scored a couple of goals as they played some wonderful football and played their part in a great game. Well done to all the players involved; each one of them played to the very end and thier behaviour all during the match is something they can be very proud of. The back four were solid all through, midfiled always hardworking and inventive and the forward line looking for opportunities to score. It was a good start and no matter what happens in the remaining matches, we can only hope that the U11s will continue to do thier best to play to the best of their ability at all times.
It must be noted that the pitch was in excellent condition as usual and a big thanks to those who worked hard to have nets, lines flags etc in proper order for the game.
The U11 panel for this game was :
Ross Byrnes,Conor Reddington,Conor Folan,Seán Fogarty,Chris O’Dowd,Charlie Crowley,Andrew Connolly,Ronan Tully, Rían Maher,Ross Doyle,Damian O’Reilly,Matthew Shiel,Darragh Manning,Tim Carroll, John Flaherty and Eanna Corry.
Thursday 11th September 2008
Under 13 Premier League
Maree Oranmore 2 Athenry 2
After a slow start to the season last week the Maree Oranmore Under 13 premier side gave a much better performance in their 2nd league match against Athenry.
A good crowd turned out to watch a very entertaining match between to evenly matched teams. Maree Oranmore unfortunately started slowly once again conceding two soft goals due to loose marking. Eventually the home side got themselves sorted , Conor McNevin made a great cross for Niall Geoghegan to bring it to two goals to one. Just before half time Conor made another strong but
