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Welcome to Boyle Celtic on realBoyle.com.
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Derby Delight for Celtic

Boyle Celtic got their title challenge back on track with a fortuitous win over local rivals Aughanagh. The Aughanagh lads will be very disappointed not to have got something from the game because in truth, they had as many, if not more good chances to score than Boyle. They lost their top scorer Paul Simon early in the game and he may well have finished some of the chances that were spurned.

The game began scrappily and it was a shot come cross from distance by Boyle’s midfielder Brian McCrann which sparked the game into life. Aughanagh keeper Francis King was back peddling to deal with McCranns high shot but misjudged the flight and bundled it into his own net. Rather than settle Boyle, the goal woke Aughanagh up and they pressed hard for an equalizer. A brilliant double save from Boyle keeper Thomas Conroy kept them out. However, minutes later Conroy almost undid all of his earlier good work. Instead of completing a bread and butter clearance, he tried to beat the Aughanagh forward who robbed him and was then pulled down by Conroy. Referee Paul Kilcoyne had no choice but to award a penalty. Unfazed by his mistake, Conroy dived right and pushed the spot  kick wide.

1 nil to Boyle at half-time.

Boyle Celtic were better in the second half with O Donohoe controlling midfield and pushing Boyle forward. Boyle doubled the lead when a perfect knockdown from Lochlainn Conboy put Paul Flanagan through on goal and he made no mistake. 2 nil. John Connolly was replaced by Sean Purcell due to injury and his experience was well tested alongside the steady Noel McKenna as Aughanagh never gave up the fight. Conroy again had to produce some smart saves to maintain Boyle’s lead. In injury time a mix-up between Purcell and keeper Conroy allowed the ball to roll into the net but Boyle held on for an important win.
A couple of players played well for Boyle, notably McKenna at the back, O Donohoe in centre midfield and Paul Flanagan worked hard going forward. Man of the match has to go to Thomas Conroy who pulled off crucial saves at the right times from Boyle’s point of view. Aughanagh will regret their missed oppurtunities. No game this weekend but Sunday 1st November sees fellow table toppers Carbury of Sligo come to Boyle for what could prove a title decider.
 
Team: Thomas Conroy, Alan Duffy, Noel McKenna, John Connolly, Colm Brennan, Michael Corrigan, Owen O Donohoe, Brian McCrann, Lochlainn Conboy, Lee McKillen, Paul Flanagan. Subs: Karl Kelly, James Carty, Aaron Calpin, Johnny Dwyer, Martin Mullen, Sean Purcell.
 
Man of the Match: Thomas Conroy            Referee: Paul Kilcoyne
 

Sunderland F.C.  Soccer Camp

Don’t forget to book your place now on the soccer camp to be run by Sunderland F.C. Camp runs Monday 26th October to Saturday 31st. Get a taste of how the premiership stars train and play. Please download the form and send it to any of the named contact persons. They will cater for under 10s, right up to under 18. All are welcome but places are limited

Celtic Suffer First League Defeat

The eagerly awaited top of the table clash between Boyle Celtic and City United of Sligo did not disappoint the large crowd at Sean Fallon Park, Cranmore last Sunday. The biggest disappointment for Boyle will surely be that they arguably played their best football this season, created a host of chances but somehow conspired to lose the game. It was a thoroughly entertaining game and both teams along with referee Noel Foley deserve great credit for it.

Boyle started really well and got a deserved goal when Lochlainn Conboy pounced on a fumbled cross by City’s keeper and blasted home. Boyle’s influential midfielder Brian McCrann was withdrawn after 15 minutes due to a niggling injury. It was a long term gamble by the manager as with 15 league games remaining Boyle would not want McCrann missing for any lengthy period. Celtic continued to attack through their full backs with young Colm Brennan outstanding throughout. A host of chances followed but none were taken. It didn’t take a clairvoyant to know that Boyle might regret their failure to “close the deal”. Half time – 1 nil to Celtic

The second half started comfortably for Boyle until an innocuous cross was headed on by City and struck veteran Owen O'Donohoe on the hand. What his hand was doing in front of his face, no-one knows. Keith Nibbs made no mistake with the resulting penalty. Boyle continued to pass well and pressure the City goal but were sucker punched when Gareth Kelly finished at the back post when several Boyle defenders failed to clear their lines. The surrender of parity was coupled with the loss of striker Lee McKillen with severe cramp and for the first time in the game, Celtic looked in trouble. A mis-hit “shinner” from City’s John Conlon made it 3-1 and Boyle looked down and out.

They rallied well however and dominated the last 10 minutes without scoring. Paul Flanagan was excellent and looked the most likely scorer if a goal was to come for Boyle.  On the final whistle, Celtic heads were down but it’s their first loss and they are very much in the title race. 3 points at home next Sunday when they play local rivals Aughanagh will get the ship back on course.  Kick off is 11am.
 
Team: Johnathon Conroy, Alan Duffy, Noel McKenna, John Connolly, Colm Brennan, Michael Corrigan, Owen O Donohoe, Brian McCrann, Lochlainn Conboy, Lee McKillen, Paul Flanagan. Subs: Karl Kelly, James Carty, Aaron Calpin, Johnny Dwyer, Thomas Conroy, Chris Casey, Kyle Suffin.
 
Man of the Match: Colm Brennan            Referee: Noel Foley
 

Back to Winning Ways

Boyle Celtic put the misery of last week’s Cup defeat behind them with a comprehensive victory over Arrow Harps. Their 4-1 victory has moved them to the top of the table after 6 games. 4 wins and 2 draws so far. Owen O’Donohoe opened the scoring after just 4 minutes and before Arrow Harps had time to draw breadth, Paul Flanagan had doubled Celtic’s lead. After 15 minutes, it was 3, another from Flanagan. When Lee McKillen made it 4 nil to Boyle after only 20 minutes it looked like becoming a total rout.
Arrow Harps battled on admirably though and it remained 4 nil until late on when Harps got a consolation goal. The only negative for Boyle was the loss of Sean Duignan through a recurring back problem when he had just returned from a long spell out injured. Hopefully he can get himself sorted.
Team: Chris Casey, Alan Duffy, Noel McKenna, Sean Purcell, Colm Brennan, Michael Corrigan, Owen O’Donohoe, Brian McCrann, Lochlainn Conboy, Paul Flanagan, Lee McKillen. With: James Carty, Martin Mullen, Karl Kelly, Thomas Conroy, John Connolly, Johnny Dwyer, Aaron Calpin, Sean Duignan.

Sunderland F.C. to run Halloween Soccer Camp

Roll up. Roll up! Book your place now on the soccer camp run by a professional team of coaches from Sunderland F.C. Train like the pros, play like the pros. Get a taste of how the premiership stars train and play. Please download the form and send it to any of the named contact persons. They will cater for under 10s, right up to under 18. All are welcome but places are limited
• Downloadable Application Form [here...][poster...]

Under 10 Registration

Under 10 registration will take place next Saturday before training at 10am. Registration fee is €25.

The Great Escape (Ballisodare v Boyle Celtic 13-09-09)

Boyle Celtic collected another 3 points away to Ballisodare and deserve great credit for a battling performance. The game was a poor, scrappy affair, helped undoubtedly by the “miniaturised pitch”, but Celtic did what was needed and took maximum points to move to 3rd place in the league and unbeaten after 4 games. [more...]
• Oh, by the way, someone we know has pals who entered a competition set up by Sony on football skills and the prize was a week in Cape Town. Apparently the other entries were very serious about skills etc but the boys for a laugh made this funny video and won. By the way the Bear is clever as that’s the logo/emblem for the World Cup in South Africa [more...]
 

Celtic Record First Win of the Season

After two frustrating draws, Boyle Celtic finally posted 3 points with a comprehensive win over Strand Celtic. A major factor in this, was surely, the return of key striker Lee McKillen. McKillen helped himself to a brace and was heavily involved in the goals by the two youngsters, Brian McCrann and James Carty. Paul Flanagan and John Connolly were also excellent in the Boyle midfield.
 
Celtic started brightly and took the game to Strand with Connolly and McCrann pushing on from midfield at every oppurtunity. The early intensity of Boyles play was catching Strand on the hop. Some slick passing around midfield, encouraged strand to come out and press but they were punished to the maximum for their high line, when O’Donohoe played a slide rule pass into the path of Lee McKillen and he finished well past the helpless keeper. The same scenario created a second goal for Boyle as once again Strand pushed up to try and press Boyles passing. Brian McCrann picked his way through the high line and guided the ball into the bottom right corner. 2 nil up and coasting Boyle dropped the intensity a little and Strand put them under some pressure in the final five minutes before half time. Connolly and Purcell however were in no mood to concede and defended bravely to leave Boyle 2 up and in control at the interval.
 
The expected surge from Strand at the start of the second half did not materialize and rather it was Boyle who began the second period with confidence and zest. A beautiful turn from Carty allowed him to place the ball on McKillens toe and he rounded the keeper to slot home into an empty net. 3 nil and game over but Boyle wanted more. The excellent Connolly won a free kick in centre midfield which was taken by Sean Purcell. Purcell’s punt forward appeared to be too long and heading into the keepers arms but the wind moved it left, and the all action James Carty, who is not one to give anything up, as a lost cause, chased it down and deftly chipped over the head of the on-rushing Strand custodian. Just reward for a great all round performance by the eighteen year old.
 
Boyle made several changes at 4 nil including the front two of Carty and McKillen. Strand pressed inevitably but it was Boyles keeper Jonathon Conroy who gifted them a lucky break. Perhaps over confident with his teams superiority he tried to dribble passed two Strand forwards but lost control and Dean Deering slotted home for 4-1. The pressure continued from Strand but Boyle were holding them. Jonathon Conroy redeemed himself several times with excellent saves and takes under the high ball. Deep in stoppage time Donnagh Oates poked home after a goalmouth scramble but the result was never in doubt.
 
Team: Jonathon Conroy, Alan Duffy, Colm Brennan, Martin Mullen, Sean Purcell, Paul Flanagan, John Connolly (capt), Brian McCrann, Owen O’Donohoe, Lee McKillen, James Carty. With Johnny Dwyer, Noel McKenna, Thomas Conroy, Aaron Calpin, Michael Bermingham, Karl Kelly, Lochlainn Conboy
 
Man of the Match: James Carty             Referee: Paul Kilcoyne
 

Development

The new floodlights are now installed and once the electrical work inside is finished we should have the official “switch on”. SIS Ireland Ltd are also doing some cosmetic improvements to the new grass pitch so we should have a top class facility for the new season.

Draw Results for May & June

May winners were : €200 – Noel Kielty, €100 – Ernie Keenan, €50 – Gerard Cuffe, €50 – Pat Lyons, €50 – Chris Richardson, €50 – John Mulhern
June winners were : €200 – Donie O Connor, €100 – Katie Loftus, €50 – Gerry Nerney, €50 – Martin Downes, €50 – Bernard McGuire, €50 – Mary Ryan

New Manager

We are currently advertising for a new senior manager. Sean Kerins is stepping down after 3 excellent years at the helm. We haven’t been knocked down with applications just yet but if there is anyone out there who would like to take on the role of senior manager, the club can promise you every possible support. There is a vibrant, energetic and very skillful young team there that just need a strong mind and personality to point them in the right direction. YOUR TOWN NEEDS YOU!

7–a–Side

The annual 7-a-side “Ian Beirne Memorial Tournament” is fixed for the August Bank Holiday weekend. Any interested teams should contact Owen O Donohoe for details. 086 2209211 after 6pm.

FÁS

A brief mention in the club notes is necessary for the brilliant work carried out by our local FAS boys under the supervision of Gerard Tivnan. I’m not going to list all the names but would just like to thank each and every member of Gerards team down the years who have worked on schemes in Boyle Celtic. If people are visiting Boyle Celtic this summer, take 2 minutes to appreciate the stone walls, sheds, footpaths, car-park and auxillary areas that FAS have worked on. The cost of labour involved in these projects means they simply wouldn’t get done, were it not for FAS. This year they’ve finished the club room for us with wooden floor, mini-kitchen area and a lick of paint. We should be able to provide a cup of tea to the many supporters on Sunday morning now.      Thanks Lads !!

FAI camp

There are still places available NOW for FAI/NIB Summer Soccer Schools 2009, 17th-21st Aug at Boyle Celtic. Book before May 15th, to win a chance of a training session with Ireland manager, Geovanni Trapattoni. There are full details online at the FAI website. (www.fai.ie)
• The National Irish Bank/FAI Summer Soccer Schools Programme is designed to deliver five football action packed days of fun, skills and games for boys and girls of all levels of ability. The schools are under the direction of the FAI Technical Director Packie Bonner and the programme is delivered by FAI Qualified Coaches.
 
 
 

Summer Soccer Schools

There are places available NOW for FAI/NIB Summer Soccer Schools 2009, 17th-21st Aug at Boyle Celtic. Book before May 15th to win a chance of a training session with Trapattoni. There are full details online at the FAI website [here...]
• The National Irish Bank/FAI Summer Soccer Schools Programme is designed to deliver five football action packed days of fun, skills and games for boys and girls of all levels of ability. The schools are under the direction of the FAI Technical Director Packie Bonner and the programme is delivered by FAI Qualified Coaches. 

Connacht Cup Final May 2nd

Boyle Celtic under 14s play their Connacht Cup Final on Sunday 3rd May against Corofin of Galway. The game is fixed for 1pm at Shiven Rovers pitch. Directions to the pitch are here http://www.shivenrovers.com/gpage4.html  
We would appeal to everyone, if you can at all, travel and support the boys, it would be hugely appreciated. The lads have been really impressive in their run to the final as we see from their results.

BOYLE CELTIC U-14’S PATH TO CONNACHT FINAL 2009

ROUND 1: 18/09/08: Western Rovers 0 Boyle Celtic 13
ROUND 2: 18/10/08: Boyle Celtic 5 Ballygalway 0
ROUND 3: 15/11/08: Boyle Celtic 6 Swinford 2
Q-FINAL: 25/1/09: Mervue 0 Boyle Celtic 1
SEMI-FINAL:14/03/0:9 Boyle Celtic 2 Westport 0

TEAM PHOTO [here...]

Kevin Mullen has given us a run down on the panel:

1. Brian Furey, Position: Goalkeeper
Fantastic shot stopper, covers his box well & keeps his backs on their toes.

2. Toby Burns, Position: Left Back
Cool on the ball who likes attacking from the back, very solid defender.

3. Ciarán Lavin, Position: Right Back
Second season with the club and has excelled. Loves to take on a player and has total confidence on the ball.

4. Jeff Gunning, Position: Centre Half
Jeff is an experienced defender who leads by example. Solid and dependable he is a no nonsense tackler.

5. Tadhg McKenna (C), Position: Centre Half
Carbon copy of his Dad, loves attacking up the middle of the pitch and as cool under pressure. Leads the team with his confidence on the ball. And all round footballer with a great future ahead.

6. Colin Goldrick, Position: Centre Midfield
Has excelled this season in the middle on the pitch. Calm on the ball and he has an eye for a killer pass.

7. Sean Farrell, Position: Centre Midfield
Skilful player who creates space for the team in the middle of the park, loves to take on a defender.

8. Dillon Edwards, Position: Right Side Midfield
The Ronaldo of the team with his silky skill and loves a good moan!!!!! Has the ability to be a top player and has a deadly finish in front of goal.

9. Michael Lavin, Position: Striker
Michael is a very strong centre-forward whose aerial prowess creates lots of chances for his team-mates and also gets him his own fair share of goals.

10. Enda Smith, Position: Striker
An out and out striker who has a lethal finish in front of goal. The former belvedere man is top scorer this season with 20 to his tally.

11. Gary O'Daly, Position: Left Side Midfield
Has excelled in his first season with the club. The Dirk Kuyt of the team, whose work rate is top class.

12. Jack Morris, Position: Right Back
Jack is a tenacious defender who is very hard for the opposition to break down.

13. Dillon East, Position: Midfield
“Djibril Cisse” of Boyle who has a different hair style every week and loves his flashy boats. Loves to take on defenders.

14. Joe Sweeney, Position: Right Back
Joe is a great young prospect who can play at either right-back or Centre half. Currently awaiting his break into the first eleven, he will be a star of the very near futur.

15. Owen Lavin, Position: Striker/ Midfield
One of the younger members of the team who has another year at this level, Owen isn’t afraid to put himself about and loves a good hard tackle.

16. Jason McDermott, Position: Centre Half
He is cool and collected and relishes any challenge which is put to him. Very defence minded player. Can also play in Goals

17. Conor Tivnan, Position: Left Midfield
Very skilful player who has another year at this level, will work hard for his team mates and has a great attitude

18. Michael Ledyon, Position: Striker
The fastest player around Boyle Celtic who can make a massive impact from the bench. Injury has limited his appearances this year.

MANAGERS: Kieran Spellman & Kevin Mullen


A Bit Of History
The last Boyle Celtic team to win a Connacht Final was the then under 15s on 30th April 1994. Star of the show was Paul Simon who scored a hat-trick in a 4-3 thriller. They beat Newcastle United of Galway. The team contained many familiar names, including Hollywood actor Chris O'Dowd, many current senior players and sadly we’ve since lost goalkeeper David Fogarty who drowned tragically in Lough Key. A sum up quote from the match report at the time went as follows: “Simon whose timely position for the goals was as a result of plenty of hard graft and running off the ball, got Man of the Match. However the likes of Cretaro and King were nipping at his heels while O Connors goal gave him new life. When the defence got it’s balance, Tiernan and O'Dowd had enough composure to keep affairs safe. But it truly was a team effort, the Boyle boys pulling out all the stops needed.”

The full team was: David Fogarty RIP, Alan Tiernan, Aaron O'Connor, Sean Supple, Christopher O'Dowd, Shane King, Darren Suffin, Rory O'Donohoe, Carlo Cretaro, Paul Simon, Declan Conroy. Sub: Enda Commons for Conroy.

Under 14 Connacht Semi-Final

Boyle Celtic Under 14s play their Connacht Cup semi-final at home this Saturday. They meet Mayo kingpins Westport for a place in the final. Kick off is 2pm in Celtic Park. Admission is free and all support would be warmly welcomed by theyoung players.

Seniors

No senior game last Sunday with Manor Rangers pitch unplayable but this Sunday Sean Kerins side travel to title rivals Carbury for a crunch game which will have a huge bearing on the Super League crown.

Youth Draw

The new season for the clubs youth draw begins at the end of March. Subscription is €10 per month by direct debit or annual payment of €120. Please contact any of the commitee if you would like to join.

Your Club Needs You!!

Boyle Celtic are collecting the SuperValu "Kids In Action" tokens for free Sports Equipment. Anyone who is not collecting them might pass their tokens to a member of the committee or Sandra McCrann in David O'Connor’s Office on Elphin St. Many thanks for your help.

Boyle Celtic 2 Calry 1 – A Game of Blind Man’s Bluff

A crucial win for Boyle last Sunday in their push for this years Super League title. They now sit in 3rd with 2 games in hand which can move them to within 2 points of leaders Strand Celtic. When they play Strand in a couple of weeks, it could be the title decider. Sean Kerins is working hard with his young charges to get there.

Boyle started the better with strong tackling and plenty of energy from the new central pairing of Conboy and O Donohoe. An early booking for the ever late Conboy did not deter his enthusiasm. He was late out of bed, late for the match and late in his first 4 tackles. Little wonder then that the official, Mr. Deering produced the “carte jaune”.

As the game settled down, Celtic dominated with slick passing from back to front, producing early chances for Corrigan, O’Donoghue and Maughan, at least two of which, should have been taken. O’Donohoe’s well touted colour blindness, seemingly replaced by a form of total, when in front of the goals.

The breakthrough came when Owen O’Donoghue swept in a cross from the right at the second attempt, after taking a fresh air swipe with the first attempt!! Another St.Paul on the road to Damascus moment. (Sean Kerins would do well to get specsavers to take a look at him). Unfazed by the comedy, Mick Corrigan guided a fabulous volley past the stranded keeper for the lead. Very well deserved for the hard working Corrigan.

More chances followed before the break but Boyle were not able to convert. A certain wag on the sideline began to hum “3 blind mice” to the players. The back four for Celtic had one of their easier days with Mullen and McKenna lording everything in the air and John Connolly pulling the strings at the back with some fine passing.

The second goal came 15 minutes after the break with the Duracell-powered Colm Brennan, raiding down the right, crossing for Mick Corrigan to double both his and Celtic’s tally for the day. It was a very impressive morning’s work from the two young wingers who constantly asked questions of the Calry back four.

The game ended as a contest after the second goal and once Rory O’Donohue replaced his brother Owen (aka Stevie Wonder) after the hour there was no way back for Calry. There was one more piece of action as the referee Mr.Deering awarded a penalty to Calry. It was effectively the last kick of the game. Speechless was the general reaction of both teams. MacHale ajudged to have to have "pushed" the Calry player while trying to tackle him. He must have pushed him with his toe! Only Mr. Deering and probably Owen saw it. There must have been a full moon. Calry scored and the ref blew the full time whistle. Thankfully this poor decision did not affect the outcome.

Team was: Darragh Loftus, John Connolly, Mick Mac Hale (C) Martin Mullen, Noel Mc Kenna, Owen O'Donohoe, Lochlainn Conboy, Mick Corrigan, Lee McKillen, Raymie Maughan, Colm Brennan

Subs used: Rory O'Donohoe for Owen 60 minutes, Aaron Calpin for Mick Corrigan 70 minutes, James Carty for Raymie 72 minutes, Jonnie Dwyer for Colm Brennan 80 minutes.

Best for Boyle: Corrigan, Brennan, Mc Kenna, and Conboy who tried hard.

Shocking News from Celtic Park:

What’s this I hear you say. Match goes ahead! Surely not!

Yes it’s true. After a break from the wind, rain, sleet and snow last week, Boyle Celtic finally got to play a match on Sunday last. They played local rivals Arrow Harps down at the cauldron that is Celtic Park and after 10 weeks of frustration and built up adrenalin, Sean Kerins released his young charges onto the field. They showed an exuberance and zest normally associated with bull calves, turned out in the field for the first time. Thankfully they didn’t eat the grass but did use it as a green canvas, to paint a footballing masterpeice with young John Maughan the Van Gogh of the day, slamming home the only goal. It was a goal however, worthy of the entrance fee alone. (which is free before anyone asks)

Celtic started brightly and took the game to a very strong and well organised Harps side. Marshalled suberbly at the back by Johnny Kenny, Arrow Harps were always going to be tough to break down. The breakthrough came on 30 mins when a quick free-kick by McHale put John Maughan running towards goal with the ball at his feet. There is only one outcome from this scenario. GOAL. One nil to Celtic. While Boyle passed well and pressed hard for a second, they could not breakdown a stalwart harps defence led by the excellent Kenny.

During the press conference afterwards, Celtic manager Sean Kerins said that he was happy with the performance, considering the long lay-off without a game and he hoped his side will be much sharper next week in the cup against Castlerea. That game kicks off at 2pm in Castlerea. Best for Boyle on the day were the Maughan brothers, Michael McHale, Colm Brennan, John Connolly and Michael Corrigan. Man of the Match though was Noel McKenna who made it look easy for the 90 minutes. He dominated in the air, was very assured on the floor and provided a solid base for Celtic to build their passing game.

Under 10 Training Change
Due to the huge numbers attending under 10 training, we have had to split up into 2 groups. Training for all of the 3rd class kids will now be every Saturday from 9.30am to 10.30am. The second group, all 4th class children will be training from 10.30am to 11.30am. We desperately need some of the parents to stick around for the hour to help with supervision. For insurance reasons we must have the appropriate ratio of adults to children so if the parents don’t get involved we will have to consider cancelling.

Weather causing problems
The weather continues to cause problems for all soccer fixtures with yet another game (away to Real Tubber), called off last week. This week Celtic have Castlerea in the Connacht Cup. Let’s hope this game can survive the wet weather.....

Under 10 Training Change
Due to the huge numbers attending under 10 training, we have had to split up into 2 groups. Training for all of the 3rd class kids will now be every Saturday from 9.30am to 10.30am. The second group, all 4th class children will be training from 10.30am to 11.30am. We desperately need some of the parents to stick around for the hour to help with supervision. For insurance reasons we must have the appropriate ratio of adults to children so if the parents don’t get involved we will have to consider cancelling.

Youth Draw Results
Results for the November and December draws are as follows:

November: 200 – Catherine Harrington, 100 – Brendan Gaffney, 50 – Tommy Vesey, 50 – Seamus Sweeney, 50 – Vinny Grehan, 50 – Mark O Donohoe

December: 200 – Donie O'Connor, 100 – Michael Hunt, 50 – Mary Ryan, 50 – Joe Mahon, 50 - Ray Devine, 50 – Tom Kearney

Recession Reflection
A thought for all those who worry about the recession while listening to the doom and gloom merchants daily.

It doesn’t matter where you go in life, What you do, or how much you have, It’s who you have beside you, .... and how much they have ..... H€€! H€€!

BOYLE CELTIC NOTES - 17th November '08 Compiled by Eddie Conroy email: eddie@boyleceltic.com

Boyle Celtic Race Night 28th November:

Planning is at an advanced and pressured stage for the annual race-night to be held at the usual venue, "The Patrick’s Well Stadium". We’ve decided to team up this year with Fergus Aherns "Neil Mellon" initiative. Fergus travels to South Africa in March 2009 to build houses in Cape Town. We hope that even more people will support us this year because they'll be supporting both Boyle Celtic and the Neil Mellon Trust Foundation. It’s a bumper 10 race card and there will be something to suit everyone. Entries of horses are coming in steadily, with some well known animals returning, a few exotically named newcomers, and one or two international entries.

Form Guide

Ciaran Conlon has entered his horse "Tie me Kangaroo Down", from Australia and the well-fancied sprinter is currently quarantined at Knock Airport awaiting clearance. He is the warm favourite for the McKennas Buses Sprint Stakes. He will have it all to do though, to beat local speed horse and 3 time winner, "Erris Flyer", trained locally by Hal Cawley. Another one with a big chance in this is the John O'Rourke trained "Aint Seen Nothin Yet" ridden by Frank Feighan T.D. This one is a previous winner of the sprint race also and it looks a hell of a contest. One that won't be winning is perennial disaster "The Q Tour" trained by Feargail Quinn on the Warren gallops. Last year's comments in running for him, "slowly away, slowly into stride, soon tailed off". The form is there lads.

The Roscommon Herald Premier Handicap is usually a bloodbath for punters and this year will be no different. Everything comes into this race with stones in hand and we can expect fancy prices for the winner. Sean Nevin and John McGuinn have entered "Up Plunko" for this and while he might look ready for the home there is plenty of kick in him yet. He is one for the short-list. Sean Kerins has "Ring the Boss" in at the bottom of the handicap with jockey "Yung Digger" claiming 5lbs and a sore hamstring. Another fancied one is "Leave it to Doddy" trained by Denis Dodd at Crescent House stables. He is working really well at the moment, we’re told and will probably go off favourite for this one. The dark horse here could be Sean Purcell's "ImPurcenator", ridden by Darren Rod. He will be staying on late, when others have cried enough.

In the juvenile race sponsored by Councillor John Cummins, we have the promising new-comer "Narrowback Mountain" trained up in Garrow by Brian 'Barney' Supple. This one has always had potential but could this be his year? Martin Murphy enters "Blue Nose" but this one has so far failed to make an impression at the top level. A poor start to the season does not bode well for his chances. From Maple Drive Farms we welcome the regally bred colt "Definitely Might, I’d Say". It’s all positive for this one and if we are to believe trainer Colin Kearney, he will take some catching. Jockey Robert reckons it’s a steering job. One to watch in this race is definitely "Dooonnn’t Bee Leave It". Local handler Trevor Conroy reckons this is the best horse he has trained and is quietly confident. The stewards room could be interesting if it doesn’t.

I hope to post the entire race-card with full list of sponsors, owners, trainers and form guide of course, well before the big night so everyone has a chance to plan their assault on the bookies and particularly odds compiler Kieran Spellman. Acting Head Steward will be Richard Kennedy and of course the ever popular MC Junior Smith returns to keep some kind of order on the chaos. Watch this space for more news.

Boyle Celtic 2 – Yeats United 0
Sunday 9th of November 2008 saw Boyle Celtic travel to Yeats Utd in Carney village near Lissadel, the well known hangout of the great man himself. What better way to report on the victory than a little limerick in recognition of W.B. and his work.

We arose and went, to Yeats back yard, Knowing full well, this match would be hard. And so it proved, in the worst of weather, But Sean Kerins men, got it together. We started well, and built from the back, Purcell’s magic showing Digger’s lack. McHale and Raymie would start to roll, And set John Maughan on his way to goal One on one, John will rarely miss, And the build-up created, a chance like this, He took the shot, and in it flew. Celtic winning and the crowd yahoos. The rest of the half, was pretty scrappy, But manager Kerins, seemed quite happy. Our lads were giving, their one and all, John Connolly fighting for every ball. McKillen was good, McHale was immense, Dunzey hard-working but not making sense. The ref blew his whistle, half-time in the fray, The lads now wondering what Kerins would say. Part two of the contest, began like the first, Purcell dominating, but dying of thirst. He slightly regretted, last night's feed of ale, But he needn’t have worried, because we had McHale. Raymie Maughan was rising like Zeus on a cloud, His towering headers, getting yahoos from the crowd. In the blink of an eye, John Maughan was felled. Penalty for Boyle, the referee yelled. This was it surely, we’re going two up! You wouldn’t believe it, Maughan slipped up. Save from the keeper, it remained at one nil Yeats' men were fading but could Boyle make the kill? Come on! Shouted Corrigan, McKillen took heed, He drove through defenders, like a gorilla on speed. Foul cried the ref, and a penalty to boot. John Maughan stepped forward to give it the boot. No mistake this time, back of the net Now for the victory, Boyle Celtic were set. A great team performance, all gave their best. Celtic the winners, now the ' lurg for a rest.

The team in full was: Darragh.Loftus, Owen O Donohoe, Sean Duignan, Sean Purcell, John Connolly, Colm Morris, Raymie Maughan, Mick McHale, Michael Corrigan, Lee McKillen, John Maughan. Sub used: L Conboy

Boyle Celtic Race Night:

Our much loved, annual race night will take place this year on Friday 28th November in the usual spot, The Patricks Well. Horses are available for the very reasonable sum of €30 and please contact the committee if you wish to buy.

This year we are teaming up with Fergus Ahern and his Neil Mellon trust appeal and we hope to get even more support than usual. Please come along on the night and you’ll have a great time. More news to follow on this as we get closer to the time.

Saturday Night Fever and the Battle of SkyValley

Sunday 12th Oct – Boyle Celtic vs SkyValley Rovers

Celtic travelled to Taughmaconnell to take on SkyValley Rovers in the FAI Junior Cup 3rd round. Unknown to manager Sean Kerins, preparations for some had started early with a warm-up dance in "Swinging Donkey" on the Saturday night. As the light-footed, quick-steppers moved like John Travolta around the dance floor, we can be certain that they had no idea how swinging and donkeys, would feature again for them just a few hours later.
Battle commenced and it started badly. One down inside a few minutes due to shambolic defending and then two glorious chances missed for Celtic. Then it got worse, 2 down. Boyle were not playing well. The grace and poise that was so admirable on the dancefloor had deserted the party boys. Instead of tripping the light fantastic, they were just tripping over....... themselves. Half-time. 2-0
Manager Sean Kerins had some harsh words for the players. It was suggested that a Plunkett Home XI would have put up a better show. The donkey reference was also aimed at a few players. A resolution was made that the mistakes would be cut out. They weren’t. In a flash we were 4 down. Shambles was becoming shame. The manager made wholesale changes and finally Celtic got down to playing some football. Owen O Donohoe and Ray Maughan got hold of the ball in midfield and they created a few openings for the front men. Substitute Colm Morris attacked with purpose down the right. John Maughan bagged 2 great goals and with 5 mins to go McKillen hit the crossbar which would have made it 4-3. Celtic tried everything to close the gap but Skyvalley held them out. Final score 4-2.
This was an extremely disappointing result as it was only when 4 goals down that Boyle played some football and showed their true colours. We have league leaders Carbury at home next Sunday and Boyle will need to start well if they are to get back to winning ways. Let’s hope all the moves are saved for the pitch.

Changes for next Match

Sean Kerins has promised he will swing the axe before next Sundays top of the table clash with Carbury of Sligo. RealBoyle has got the inside track on some of the rumours.

1)Celtic are going to sign a new centre-half from Kenya who will fill those gaps in defence. His name is Elefano! [** photo here...**]
2)Sean Duignan will be encouraged to make more use of his heading ability. Fiollow the link to see what I mean. [** photo here...**]
3)Owen O'Donohoe will be given some tackling demos from a full size footballer. See picture taken at training. [** photo here...**]
4)Mick McHale is to start tackling higher up the pitch, no just higher up – here he is practicing [** photo here...**]
5)Wingers are to take a much tougher approach when attacking down the flanks. Colm Morris getting ready for battle. [** photo here...**]

Celtic win 7 goal Thriller

Sunday 19th October – Boyle Celtic v Carbury

What a difference a week makes. This was the same team we watched last Sunday in skyvalley but you would scarcely believe it. I slated them last Sunday but this week it’s nothing but praise. Boyle Celtic were fantastic against league leaders and title favourites Carbury. It was a feast of goals with Boyle taking the lead 4 times but in truth they never looked like losing. The small but dedicated band of supporters who braved the elements, were treated to a great show.
Celtic shot out of the traps and pressed and harried until the inevitable mistake came from Carbury. A poor back header from the centreback was pounced on by John Maughan and rifled home. Carbury were struggling to contain Boyle in these early exchanges and for the first 15 minutes it seemed Celtic were in total control. However some of last weeks demons returned and 3 poor clearances by the boyle defence, from an inoccuous ball in, saw the ball turned in by Carbury’s Keith Carty. 1-1.
The Boyle lads shook this off and were soon in front again. Great work by McKillen and Ray Maughan sent Colm Morris flying up the right and his driven cross to the back post was painfully tapped home by young Colm Brennan. Showing all the committment expected of a Boyle Celtic player he was willing to accept the inevitable collision with the backpost and kept his eye on the ball to make it 2-1. Half-time.
The second half began rather scrappy before exploding into life. Just 10 minutes in when poor marking for a Carbury corner allowed John Gaffney to run unchecked to the back post and thunder his header home. Loftus in goal had no chance. This only served to galvanise Boyle and they hit straight back with a corner swung to the back post and a thunderous header of their own from star man Lee McKillen. Owen O Donohoe was the provider. 3-2 to Boyle. Could they hold the lead this time?
No they couldn’t. Another defensive mix-up let Fallon in for yet another equalizer. 3-3. At this stage Celtic must have thought about just holding things for a draw. If this was the plan, nobody shared it with the Maughan brothers. A knock down from Lee McKillen to his cousin Raymie Maughan was followed by a sublime pass which left the Carbury defence for dead and sent brother John Maughan clean through on goal. Showing a cool head beyond his years John squared to Colm Morris who was in a perfect position to secure the 3 points for Celtic. It was the best move of the match involving the four outstanding players for Boyle on the day. How fitting then that it proved to be the winner. Final score 4-3. Michael Corrigan and Colm Brennan also put in top performances. Overall the team played extremely well and fully deserved the win. Man of the Match went to Lee McKillen.

Next Sunday – home to Strand Celtic, also of Sligo....

Boyle Celtic Draw Results

August
€200~Phil Burns
€100~Alan Cooney
€50each~Ciaran O'Connor, David Battles, Michael McHale Snr, Mark Cunningham

July
€200~Ann Conboy & Carmel Tivnan
€100~Caroline Regan
€50each~Rachel Doherty, Donal Kelly, John McNama, Peter Byrne

U-10 Training Resumes

Training for under 10s resumed on Saturday morning 13th September. Registration is at 9.50am and training will take place afterwards. Contact Colin Kearney or Eddie Conroy if you have any further queries. 086 8101309, 0862574257

FAI Junior Cup Match Report 14/09/08

Boyle Celtic seniors had a bloodless victory on Sunday, away to Rahara Rovers of Roscommon in the FAI Junior Cup. Celtic went a goal down inside 5 minutes and with star forward John Maughan out due to illness it looked like being a difficult afternoon for the Boyle lads. However the midfield duo of Owen O Donohoe and Raymie Maughan grabbed control of midfield and got Boyle playing. They levelled within minutes and went on to completely overpower their opponents. The final score was 9-3 with the Rahara concelation goals coming after manager Sean Kerins had introduced wholesale changes with the game safely in the bag. The scorers for Boyle were Owen O Donohoe, Lee McKillen, Colm Morris, Aaron Calpin, Chris Richardson and a magnificent 4 from Raymie Maughan accompanied by a man of the match performance. Next week it’s back to the league away to Arrow Harps.

Blast from the Past

I am a bit late with this report. 106 years late to be exact. Using the marvel of the internet and the kind assistance of the Roscommon Herald I’ve dug out this match report. It is from March 15th 1902, when Boyle Freebooters played Castlerea Leos. The report was typed by a "Jill Devito". I wonder was she any relation of Dannys? Boyle Freebooters were the birth of soccer in Boyle and they later became Boyle Celtic. Some familiar surnames are thrown up in the report.

Enthusiastic attendance at the Boyle celtic AGM listen to the dulcet
tones of Secretary Richard Kennedy and somehow manage to contain
themselves....:-)

A plethora of prizes for this year's stars!!

Secretary Richard Kennedy presents Jason McDermott
with the under 14 cubs, player of the year

U-14 managers Kieran Spellman and Kevin Mullen
present Thomas Lavin with player of the year. Thomas is among 3 Boyle
Celtic players currently having trials for Ireland under 14s.

Under 16 player of the year James Carty receives his
trophys from manager Martin Mullen

Michael Corrigan who was simply outstanding this
season for the under 18s receives his trophy from Owen O'Donohoe

Rory O'Donohoe, senior player of the year receiving
his trophy from manager Sean Kerins

Well known Boyle Celtic stalwart Hal Cawley presents
clubman of the year to Owen O Donohoe Junior, Boyle Celtic & Sligo
Rovers veteran.

All the prize winners, committee members and extensive crowd together. The man peering out behind everything, looking like he has just robbed the place is former player, former manager, former groundsman, former treasurer and current specialist advisor on most things, our very own Johnny Greenan.

(photos courtesy of Eddie Conroy)

Ian Beirne :

Memories of a great club man and sports fan, the late Ian Beirne R.I.P.
Please click on any title below:

"IAN CONNECTION" : "THE YANKS" : "HOT POT IAN" : "CHINESE DOG"