RUGBY

26th Feb.; The big news story over the past couple of weeks has been the deduction of all league points from the Abbeyfeale Rugby Team for allegedly fielding an illegal player throughout the present league campaign. The Fealesiders strenuously deny any wrong-doing and have pledged to vigourously contest the decision of the Munster Branch. As things stand however, following last Sunday`s defeat against Muskerry, Abbeyfeale are condemned to division 3 next season. It is expected that there will be further developments shortly, and we will bring the details as they become available.

YOUGHAL 36 ................ABBEYFEALE 5 14th Jan

A depleted Abbeyfeale XV made the long trek to Youghal to take on the Cork side in the Munster Junior League on Sunday afternoon and were beaten 36-5

The Fealesiders were forced to travel without the services of five first-team regulars including skipper, Murty Aherne and player-coach, Michael Foote

They battled bravely in the opening half and trailed 12-0 at the break.

Youghal, who lead the group and who are strong contenders for promotion, upped the tempo in the second half and ran out easy winners.

Declan Woulfe scored a consolation try for Abbeyfeale, mid-way through the half.

On the day, Abbeyfeale were best served by Michael Murphy, Kieran Collins and David Curtin.

Team; Declan Woulfe, Iain McMahon, Alan Supple, Adrian O`Halloran, David Curtin, Kieran Collins, Michael Murphy, Timmy Quilter, David Prendiville (Capt) Craig Ansell, Coleman Delee, Paudie Naughton, John Lenihan, Kevin Prendiville, Declan White. Replacements; Liam Herlihy, Diarmuid O`Leary, Shane Curtin, Niall Donovan

ABBEYFEALE 2nds 8 BRUFF 2nds 10 6th January

Abbeyfeale 2nds had a useful outing against Bruff in a friendly at The Grove on Sunday afternoon and put in a gritty display before going down by 10 points to 8.

The Fealesiders trailed by 5 points to 3 at half time with Craig Ansell kicking a penalty for the home team The second half was closely contested with both sides squandering scoreable opportunies. Abbeyfeale took the lead midway through the half when, following a good forward drive, Niall Donovan picked up and raced over. Bruff regained the lead with a try close to the finish and clung on for a narrow win. Team; Liam Herlihy, Declan Woulfe, Mike Leahy, Matt Behan, Matt Semple, Niall O`Donovan, David Curtin, Adrian O`Halloran, Craig Ansell, David Collins, Packy O``Connor, Diarmuid O`Leary, Iain McMahon, Timmy Quilter, Coleman Delee. Replacements; David Prendiville, Andrew Scannell.

Next Sunday, Abbeyfeale are away to Youghal in the Munster Junior League. Youghal top the table at present and the Fealesiders can be assured of a warm welcome and a competitive game at the Cork venue. Kick-off is at 2.30 pm.

ABBEYFEALE 10 ........KILFEACLE 13 30th Dec.

Abbeyfeale made their exit from the Munster Junior Clubs Challenge Cup following a close and keenly contested quarter-final game against Kilfeacle, played in The Grove on Sunday.

The Fealesiders entered the fray as underdogs, but a spirited first half performance saw them lead their division one opponents by 7 points to 3 at half time. Kevin Prendiville scored a good try for the home team following a fine break by Declan White. Liam Quirke converted from an acute angle.

Kilfeacle upped the tempo early in the second half and were rewarded with a converted try to give them a 10-7 lead.

Influential number eight for Abbeyfeale, Michael Foote, was forced to limp off injured midway through the half, leaving the Fealesiders with a veritable mountain to climb.

Kilfeacle increased their lead with a penalty. Abbeyfeale attacked strongly in the closing quarter but failed to avail of several good scoring chances. Liam Quirke reduced the deficite with a well-struck penalty five minutes from time, but Kilfeacle clung on for victory and a place in the last four.

Team; Matt Behan, Seanie Naughton, Declan Woulfe, David Curtin, Adrian O`Halloran, Micheal Murphy, Murty Aherne (Capt) Michael Foote, Craig Ansell, Paudie Naughton, Kevin Prendiville, Liam Quirke, John Lenihan, Coleman Delee, Declan White. Replacements; Eamon Foley, Iain McMahon, Kieran Collins.

ABBEYFEALE U/20s 11 ...........CASTLEISLAND U/20s 10.

Abbeyfeale U/20s had a good win over Castleisland for the James Smith Memorial Cup before a large and enthusiastic crowd in The Grove last Thursday by 11 pts to 10.

Hugh Dunne scored a try for the winners and David Collins kicked a penalty and a drop-goal.

Team; Matt Behan (Capt) Iain McMahon, Michael Leahy, Dermot O`Leary, Denis Fitzgerald, Kieran Collins, Michael Nash, Niall Donovan, Paul Collins, David Collins, Hugh Dunne, Andrew Scannell, Patrick Twomey, Daniel Casey, Mike Foley.

25th December.; The Junior Challenge Cup game against Kilfeacle was called off due to frost. It may have to be played on this coming Sunday, 30th December if Abbeyfeale wish to retain home advantage.

ABBEYFEAL 12 . ST SENAN 32

16th Dec.; Abbeyfeale`s hopes of remaining in contention for the latter stages of the Munster Junior League were finally dashed in The Grove on Sunday when they were well beaten by a skillfull and highly disciplined St Senan`s XV in a fast, open and attacking game of rugby. The Fealesiders had defeated the Shannon side earlier in the season by 13 points to 11 in the Junior Challenge Cup and were just two points behind them in the league prior to Sunday`s game. However, it appears that Senan`s have wintered well. Their strong, well-organized pack posed all sorts of problems for the home side, and their lively, free-running and hard-tackling backs attacked at every opportunity.Abbeyfeale were still very much in contention at half time, trailing by 19 points to 12 after having squandered a number of useful scoring opportunities. Michael Foote and John Lenihan both scored good tries for the home side and Liam Quirke kicked a conversion. However, two converted penalties by the visitors in the first fifteen minutes of the second half virtually killed off the Abbeyfeale challenge, and a try, gifted to them in the twenty fifth minute, finally put the issue beyond doubt. To their credit, The Fealesiders attacked strongly in the closing minutes and spurned several easy kicks at goal in an effort to score a consolation try, but to no avail. And so, a league campaign that started so brightly and promised so much for the Fealesiders would seem to be stuttering to a halt.They face another daunting assignment next Sunday when they must line out against Kilfeacle in the quarter-final of the Junior Challenge Cup. They will enter the game as underdogs and, on current form, few will give them a realistic chance of advancing. However, this team has a habit of confounding it`s critics and producing the unexpected. Could there be yet another twist in the tale before the season is over? We will wait and see.

Team; Declan Woulfe, Iain McMahon, Alan Supple, David Curtin, Adrian O`Halloran, Matt Behan, Murty Aherne (Capt) Michael Foote, Craig Ansell, Paudie Naughton, Declan White, Liam Quirke, Andrew Scannell, Kevin Prendiville, John Lenihan. Replacements; Seanie Naughton, Kieran Collins, John Sommers, Coleman Delee, Din McCarthy, Liam Herlihy, David Prendiville.

The James Smith Memorial Cup match between Abbeyfeale U/20`s and Castleisland U/20`s will be played in The Grove on Thursday 27th December with a 2.30 pm kick-off. This game attracts a good crowd to The Grove each year and refreshments will be available in The Clubhouse after the match.

ABBEYFEALE 24. KANTURK 11 10th Dec.

Abbeyfeale put a recent run of poor results behind them when carving out a tough win over Kanturk before a large crowd in The Grove on Sunday afternoon. With both sides desperate for league points and prepared to concede very little, the exchanges were robust at times as both packs went about their business in a competitive and enthusiastic manner.

Kanturk enjoyed the greater possession in the first half, dominating the line-outs and causing the Abbeyfeale forwards considerable problems in the scrums and rucks. However, the home defence stood firm, and determined tackling by the backs, and particularly by Liam Quirke and Andrew Scannell, held the visitors at bay. Scoring opportunites during the opening period were scarce. Kanturk missed with a penalty kick after fifteen minutes and shortly afterwards Liam Quirke was just wide with a long range effort for Abbeyfeale Most of the first half excitement was contained in the closing five minutes.

The visitors finally opened their account with a penalty in the thirty fifth minute. A high kick-ahead from Paudie Naughton4 was then gathered by the Kanturk full-back4 who called for the mark before electing to take a quick free and was then swallowed up by the marauding Abbeyfeale pack who, for once, had arrived very quickly on the scee. In the ensuing ruck, the ball broke free and was grabbed by the alert M ichael Foote who raced in unhindered to score under the posts. Quirke added the points and Abbeyfeale, very much against the run of play, had taken an unlikely lead.Kanturk added another penalty on the stroke of half time to leave it delicately poised at 7-6

.The second half opened with the visitors again attacking. They were rewarded after ten minutes when, following a sustained period of pressure, they got in at the corner for an unconverted try. Ten minutes later, Abbeyfeale were in front again. The move was instigated by Michael Foote gaining possession at the break down and bringing his backs in to play. The ball was swung quickly along the line before Andrew Scannell arrived on the burst to break through the tackles and get the touch down. Quirke again added the points and then kicked a penalty to give The Fealesiders some daylight at 17-11. Abbeyfeale should have extended their lead when a fine break through the centre by Michael Foote was called back with the try-scoring pass being adjudged to be forward. Kanturk still looked dangerous and, with just a single score between the teams, it was all to play for in the closing stages. Fortunes ebbed and flowed with both sides creating chances. However, it was Abbeyfeale who got the decisive score when, following a block-down, the ball was again swung wide and Paudie Naughton cleverly chipped ahead before winning the race for the touch down. Quirke converted to complete the scoring for Abbeyfeale.

Next Sunday, Abbeyfeale face joint league leaders, St Senan`s in a vital match in The Grove. When these teams met earlier in the season in the Challenge Cup, Abbeyfeale had a narrow two-point victory (13-11) and another exciting game is in prospect on Sunday.

Team; Declan Woulfe, Iain McMahon, Alan Supple, David Curtin, Adrian O`Halloran, Micheal Murphy, Murty Aherne (capt) Michael Foote, Craig Ansell, Paudie Naughton, Declan White, Liam Quirke, Andrew Scannell, Kevin Prendiville, John Lenihan. Replacements; Seanie Naughton, Kieran Collins, John Sommers, Coleman Delee, Matt Behan, Din McCarthy, Liam Herlihy.

OLD CHRISTIANS 18 ..............ABBEYFEALE 8 24th Nov.

Abbeyfeale slumped to their second successive Munster Junior League defeat when beaten by Old Christians in Cork on Sunday.

Abbeyfeale started the present league campaign with three wins on the trot, and began entertaining realistic hopes of being in contention for the latter stages of the competition. However, a significant drop in form in recent games now finds The Fealesiders in mid table and very much dependant on results elsewhere.

Sunday`s game was closely contested throughout, with the result very much in doubt right up to the final whistle. Both sides spurned good scoring chances in the first half and Old Christians led by 3 points to nil at half time.

Abbeyfeale began to display more urgency at the start of the second half and, following a prolonged period of good forward pressure, Craig Ansell was put through for a well-worked try. The Fealesider`s lead was short-lived however, as Old Christians replied with a converted try to lead again by 10 points to 5.

Liam Quirke narrowed the gap to 10-8 with a penalty but again the home team responded with a penalty to extend their lead to 13-8.

The final quarter was was tough and uncompromising as both sides went in search of victory. The Fealesiders created a number of scoring chances but failed to convert them, and it was Old Christians who finally sealed vicory with another try, five minutes from time.

On the day, Abbeyfeale failed to produce a winning performance with only Liam Quirke and Michael Foote playing to their true potential. This sudden dip in form must be a cause of concern to the coach and training staff. It would seem that all they can do now is to keep plugging away and try and win their remaining matches while hoping that the leaders slip-up.

Team; John Lenihan, Kevin Prendiville, Liam Quirke, Andrew Scannell, Declan White, David Prendiville, Craig Ansell, Alan Supple, Iain McMahon, Liam Herlihy, John Sommers, David Curtin, Adrian O`Halloran, Murty Aherne (capt) Michael Foote. Replacements; Matt Behan, Din McCarthy, Paudie Naughton.

ABBEYFEALE 13 .............................ST. MARY`S 19 4th Nov.

Abbeyfeale suffered their first defeat in the current Munster Junior League competition when beaten by St. Mary`s at The Grove on Sunday.

In a tough, competitive and robust encounter, The Fealesiders carved out enough chances to win the game but failed to grasp the initiative, and their tendency to concede needless penalties at vital stages of the game eventualy cost them the points.

The home team started positively and, with the forwards securing good possession, both from open play and out of touch, they were able to launch several promising attacks. They deservedly took the lead after twenty minutes when, following a sustained period of domination, Michael Foote peeled away from the back of a ruck and barged over the line for a fine try.

Abbeyfeale continued to press forward and create chances, with Murty Aherne, Adrian O`Halloran and Ian McMahon being particularly effective in the rucks and mauls, while Liam Quirke, Andrew Scannell and John Lenihan were prominant in defense. And it was Scannel who scored Abbeyfeale`s second try following an interchange of passes between backs and forwards that released the Abbeyfeale centre to score out near the corner. St. Mary`s replied with a penalty but The Fealesiders led by 10 points to 3 at half time and looked in good shape.

St. Mary`s emerged for the second half in a far more determined manner and immediately went on the offensive. Their bigger and heavier pack began to dominate proceedings as they slowed down the game, playing in tight and starving Abbeyfeale of any worthwhile possession. The Fealesiders were frustrated in their efforts to open up play and spread the ball wide and, as a consequence, they began to concede penalties and were punished accordingly. Three such penalties were thumped over the bar in the first twenty minutes to propel the visitors into a somewhat flattering 12-10 lead. Worse was to follow when, following a series of missed tackles, St. Mary`s were allowed in for a converted try which seemed to have settled the issue.

Abbeyfeale, to their credit, refused to give in and the final ten minutes were played out in a welter of excitement as they came looking for scores to close the gap. Ansell reduced the advantage with a penalty to set up another nailbiting finish. The Fealesiders bombarded the Mary`s defense in the closing minutes but failed to breech the try-line and the visitors clung on for a very hard-earned vicory that took them to the top of the league table.

The Fealesiders performed well in this game and created enough chances to win. However, their inability to convert chances in to scores, and a tendency to concede those needless penalties, must give cause for concern. They have a break now before the next league match and will have time to heal their wounds and reflect on what is yet to be done. Their next league match is away to Old Christians on the 25th November. This is now a huge game for them and they will need to show great character and commitment to bounce back quickly from last Sunday`s defeat.

Team; Eamon Foley, Ian McMahon, Alan Supple, Din McCarthy, David Curtin, Adrian O`Halloran, Murty Aherne, (Capt) Michael Foote, David Prendiville, Craig Ansell, Paudie Naughton, Liam Quirke, Andrew Scannell, Kevin Prendiville, John Lenihan. Replacements; Matt Behan. (for D McCarthy) Noel Roche. (for D Prendiville) Declan White. (for P Naughton)

ABBEYFEALE EDGE IT!

Kinsale 16 .............Abbeyfeale 18 28th Oct

Rugby games involving Abbeyfeale may soon carry a Government Health Warning to protect those of us who suffer from a nervous or exciteable disposition. The Fealesiders made the long trek to picturesque Kinsale on Sunday and subjected their supporters to further tortures and tribulations before edging out the home side and claiming two further precious league points.

Kinsale endured a heavy defeat against Muskerry the previous Sunday - a setback that obviously focused their minds wonderfully, and it was evident from an early stage that Abbeyfeale would have to face the inevitable backlash.

The Fealesiders, for their part, were in a more sedate and pensive mood, and were no doubt missing their skipper, Murty Aherne, who was away dealing and dabbling in matters equine (The Breeders Cup) with others of the local racing fraternity over in The Big Apple.

Any complacency that Abbeyfeale may have felt, quickly evaporated as Kinsale applied pressure straight from the kick-off. They dominated the opening quarter and had deservedly gone 10 points to nil ahead by the time that Abbeyfeale realized that they might have a fight on their hands.

The Fealesiders upped the ante in the second quarter and began to exert some pressure of their own. Din McCarthy and David Curtin drove forward gamely and created space and time to bring the backs into play. Michael Foote orchestrated matters at the base of the scrum and combined with David Prendiville and Craig Ansell to create chances. Ansell finally opened the visitors` account with a penalty after twenty five minutes. Ten minutes later, following a series of rucks the ball was swung wide and fast hands sped it out along the line to Andrew Scannell who showed great acceleration to score near the posts. Ansell added the points to level the game and Abbeyfeale seemed to be in the ascendancy. However, right on half time, Kinsale scored from another penalty to lead 13 - 10 at the break.

The second half was vigorously contested with both sides creating their quota of squandered chances. In the tough, dour forward exchanges, honours were shared as the advantage swung from one side to the other, while the backs were rarely brought into play in any sort of an attacking role. \par Ansell kicked his second penalty after fifteen minutes to level affairs again. The highlight of the afternoon for Abbeyfeale came after twenty minutes when hooker, Ian McMahon latched on to a loose ball in the middle of the field and raced all of sixty yards, evading several tackles to score a magnificent individual try in the corner - a try that even the great Keith Wood might have been proud of.

Incidentally, by around 10 pm on Sunday night, that legendary sixty yard dash had increased to over a hundred yards, and the number of tackles evaded had also multiplied substantially! However, we will stick with the official (and sober) version of events.

Kinsale replied with another penalty to leave just two points between the sides and it was time to start biting the nails again. Both sides continued to create chances right up to the final whistle which was greeted with much relief by the Abbeyfeale contingent. As one afficionado remarked as he trooped out the gate and headed towards downtown Kinsale looking for civilization and the peace and tranquility of the Yacht Club;

"They`d put years on you - so they would!"

Next Sunday Abbeyfeale entertain St Mary`s at The Grove in another vital league game. And, on last Sunday`s display, they will know that there is still plenty of room for improvement. The game kicks-off in The Grove at 3 pm

Team; Alan Supple, Ian McMahon, Matt Behan, Din McCarthy, David Curtin, Adrian O`Halloran, Niall Donovan, Michael Foote, David Prendiville (Capt) Craig Ansell, Declan White, Liam Quirke, Andrew Scannell, Paudie Naughton, John Lenihan. Replacements; Declan Woulfe, Kevin Prendiville, Liam Herlihy, Timmy Quilter.

Scariff 24 Abbeyfeale2nds

Abbeyfeale travelled to Scariff on Sunday and were beaten by the local side in the Gleeson League. The Fealesiders had a good first half and David Collins kicked a penalty to leave it 3-3 at half time. \par Scariff secured a couple of scores early in the second half and, although Abbeyfeale battled bravely to the very end and set up several scoring chances, they were unable to peg them back. David Collins kicked his second penalty for Abbeyfeale midway through the half.

Team; David Collins, Shane Curtin, Coleman Delee, Liam Galvin, Donal Collins, Jimmy Lane, Maurice Flynn, Ian Liston, Seanie Naughton, Mike Leahy, Matt Semple, Diarmuid O`Leary, Ronan O`Rourke, Kieran Collins (Capt) Brian Foley. Replacements; Paul Collins, John Kelly.FIXTURES: Munster Junior League. Abbeyfeale V St. Mary`s. The Grove. 3pm. Sunday 4th November.

ABBEYFEALE 27 .................... DOUGLAS 12 21st Oct.

Abbeyfeale made it two wins from two starts in the Munster Junior League with a hard-earned victory over Douglas in The Grove on Sunday. The game was much closer than the final scoreline might suggest, with the outcome in doubt right up to the final minutes.

Douglas arrived with impressive credentials. They were into the quarter-finals of the Junior Challenge Cup and were unbeaten in all games this season, prior to Sunday.

Abbeyfeale are also on a bit of a roll at the moment with some good wins under their belt despite the occasional hiccup along the way. Their long-suffering supporters seem to age visibly after every game these days, and Sunday was no exception!

The Fealesiders exploded out of the blocks, full of fire and fury, and could have scored three tries inside the first ten minutes. A kick to touch by Douglas was charged down in the opening minutes and two Abbeyfeale backs found themselves with an unprotected try-line just ten yards ahead of them. However, between them they somehow contrived to knock the ball on and the chance went a-begging. Michael Foote then broke strongly through the centre and chipped over the full-back, but an unfavourable bounce denied him a certain try. Paudie Naughton attacked down the right flank and seemed to have reached the line but was ushered into touch and goal.

Abbeyfeale finally made the break-through after ten minutes when, following a series of driving rucks close to the Douglas line, the marauding Din McCarthy picked up and dived over near the posts. Ten minutes later, Foote - who seemed to be playing in six different positions at once - arrived at the business end of a flowing back-row move and touched down in the corner. Ansell kicked the difficult conversion as Abbeyfeale kept up the pressure. Murty Aherne was cleaning up in the line-outs and with Liam Quirke and Andrew Scannell controlling the centre field and coming through on the burst, chances were being created. From another driving maul, Foote again secured possession before sending David Prendiville scurrying in for a try under the posts. Ansell converted and should have scored himself when released down the left wing but was smothered up just short of the line.

Abbeyfeale led by 19 points to nil at half time and it seemed a generous enough lead. However, straight from the kick-off Douglas showed that they were in no mood to capitulate as they began pumping high balls into the corners and pouring forward in numbers. Abbeyfeale suddenly found themselves on the back foot and gaps began to appear, into which the visitors drove with great determination. Fifteen minutes into the half, with Abbeyfeale defending desperately, but successfully, on their own line, they succeeded in turning over the ball and Ansell lifted the siege with a long kick which found touch outside the 22. As the Abbeyfeale pack slowly picked themselves up, Douglas took a somewhat fortuitous quick throw-in and spread the ball wide and, with the Abbeyfeale cover vainly attempting to cover the open ground, they scored the simplest of tries. Another try quickly followed to make it 19-12 and Douglas were back in the ball game. It was time to circle the wagons as the visitors closed in for the kill.

The closing ten minutes were played with intense pride and passion as both sides strived for supremacy. At times, it appeared that Abbeyfeale must yield, but they clung on tenaciously and with great character, doing what they do best - tackling, harrying, sniping around the fringes, driving, retreating and driving again. Foote and Aherne were awesome during this period, but McCarthy, O`Halloran and indeed, the whole pack, put in the thumping tackles where it mattered, while behind the pack both Prendiville and Ansell worked feverishly to tidy up any lose ball and relieve the pressure.

With minutes remaining Abbeyfeale made a rare foray in to enemy territory and forced a penalty which Ansell converted to put some daylight between the teams. From the kick-off, The Fealesiders regained possession and a well-rehearsed move involving Foote, Prendiville and Declan White ended with Foote charging over for his second try to seal victory for the home team.

Next Sunday Abbeyfeale are away to Kinsale in the next round of the league. This is another potentially difficult assignment for The Fealesiders, as Kinsale are notoriously difficult to beat at home and it will take another supreme effort if Abbeyfeale are to prevail.

Team; Liam Herlihy, Ian McMahon, Alan Supple, David Curtin, Din McCarthy, Adrian O`Halloran, Murty Aherne (Capt) Michael Foote, David Prendiville, Craig Ansell, Declan White, Andrew Scannell, Liam Quirke, Paudie Naughton, John Lenihan. Replacements; Declan Woulfe, Matt Behan.

ST. SENAN`S 11 ............................. ABBEYFEALE 13. 14th Oct.

Abbeyfeale produced yet another nail-biting finish to reach the quarter final stages of the Junior Challenge Cup following a hard-earned victory over a fancied St Senan`s side in Shannon on Sunday.

The Fealesiders came into this match with a run of five successive victories, but were expecting a tough battle against a highly-rated St Senan`s XV who could also boast of a long, unbeaten run. The bigger and heavier home pack were looking to give the visiting front eight a torrid time of it. However, Abbeyfeale met them head-on, and seemed to relish the close-quarter exchanges, the hard, uncompromising tackles and the furiously-driven rucks and mauls.

St Senan`s shaded matters in the first half and just about deserved their 6-3 interval lead. They opened the scoring with a drop-goal after ten minutes. Craig Ansell restored parity with a sweetly-struck penalty on fifteen minutes. St Senan`s regained the lead with a penalty after thirty minutes and retained their advantage to the break.

St Senan`s again attacked strongly at the start of the second half and, when they increased their lead with a try, it began to look ominous for Abbeyfeale. However, The Fealesiders suddenly stepped up a gear and swarmed forward in numbers with the home side forced very much on the defensive.

Following a series of scrums inside the Senan`s 22, Din McCarthy broke from the back of a ruck and used his strength to drive over under the posts. Ansell added the points to leave The Fealesiders trailing by just one point with fifteen minutes remaining.

Abbeyfeale dominated the closing quarter but squandered so many scoring opportunities that several of the travelling fans were literally tearing their hair out in frustration! The usually reliable Ansell missed a couple of penalty kicks that he might normally expect to get on target. Abbeyfeale then wasted another kickable penalty when they decided to run the ball. Silly penalties were also conceded and numerous unforced errors were made and, as the game entered injury time, it looked as if The Fealesiders would pay dearly for the litany of wasted chances and missed opportunities.

However, with time almost up, the Abbeyfeale pressure finally paid off when they forced one last penalty within kickable range. Ansell stepped up and cooly slotted the ball between the sticks to give Abbeyfeale the lead that they had so desperately strived for all afternoon.

There was one final twist to the story when, from the re-start, St Senan`s were awarded a penalty just inside the Abbeyfeale half. The kick went a whisper wide of the left hand post and the assembled Abbeyfeale afficionados breathed a collective sigh of relief, before heading en-masse for the clubhouse to partake of something medicinal to sooth frayed nerves.

This was a good, competent performance by Abbeyfeale. They would appear to be nearing peak fitness, thanks to the very strict regime being laid down by trainer, Jerry Casey. Michael Foot`s coaching tactics are also beginning to pay off and there seems to be an excellent team spirit developing within the side. However, there is still scope for improvement in preparation for the many tough battles that still lie ahead.

Team; John Lenihan, Andrew Scannell, Liam Quirke, Paudie Naughton, Kevin Prendiville, David Prendiville, Craig Ansell, Liam Herlihy, Ian McMahon, Alan Supple, David Curtin, John Sommers, Adrian O`Halloran, Murty Aherne, (Capt) Michael Foote. Replacements; Din McCarthy, Matt Behan.

Next Sunday Abbeyfeale face another stiff test when they tackle Douglas in the second series of matches in the Munster Junior League. Douglas had a big win over St Mary`s, 24-8 in the league and also defeated Kanturk, 5-3 last Sunday to reach the quarter-finals of the Challenge Cup. Their season would appear to mirror that of Abbeyfeale and next Sunday`s game is a huge event for both teams. The game kicks-off in The Grove at 3pm.

FIXTURE; Munster Junior League; Abbeyfeale V Douglas. The Grove. 3pm. Sunday 21st Oct.

UNDER AGE FIXTURES.

U/18`s; Abbeyfeale V Newcastlewest. The Grove. Saturday 20th Oct. 12 noon.

U/14`s; Abbeyfeale V Newcastlewest. The Grove. (Time and date to be arranged.)

Under Age Training; U/12`s - Sundays, 11am. U/14s - Wednesdays, 5pm. U/16`s - Friday, 6.30 pm. U/18`s - Friday, 6.30 pm. New players are welcome at all of these training sessions.

ENNIS 23 .....................ABBEYFEALE 26. 7th Oct.

Abbeyfeale made a winning start to the new Munster Junior League campaign with a hard-fought victory away to Ennis on Sunday on a score of 26 points to 23. The Fealesiders ran in three good tries during the course of the game but failed to reach the same high standards that they achieved against Highfield the previous Sunday. With a couple of players unavailable, they were forced to re-arrange their defensive lineup. They brought Liam Quirke into the centre and introduced John Lenihan at full back.

Michael Foote opened the scoring for Abbeyfeale in the first half with a try following good forward pressure. Declan White, scorer of that injury-time try against Highfield, added another, midway through the half. Craig Ansell kicked the conversion and then found the range again with a well struck penalty. Ennis replied with an unconverted try to give Abbeyfeale a 15-5 interval lead.

Ennis upped the tempo in the second half and Abbeyfeale found themselves under some pressure as the home team went about reducing the arrears. They succeeded with two penalty attempts before Ansell gave Abbeyfeale some temporary relief with a penalty of his own. Another Ennis try left just two points between the teams with The Fealesiders desperately hanging on. On a rare foray upfield, Foote burrowed his way over the line to increase the Abbeyfeale lead. Ansell then kicked another penalty but Ennis refused to yield. Back they came with yet another converted to try to set up a grand stand finish. The closing minutes were played out at a frantic pace as Ennis came searching for the winning score. It was a mighty relieved Abbeyfeale team that at last heard the final whistle.

This was not an overly-impressive display by Abbeyfeale but, on the day, the result was probably more important than the performance, and it may act as a wake-up call for the team as they face a strong St Senan`s team next Sunday.

Team; John Lenihan, Declan White, Andrew Scannell, Liam Quirke, Kevin Prendiville, David Prendiville, Craig Ansell, Liam Herlihy, Ian McMahon, Matt Behan, David Curtin, Adrian O`Halloran, Murty Aherne (Capt) Kieran Collins, Michael Foote. Replacements; Niall Donovan, Din McCarthy.

Next Sunday, Abbeyfeale face another tough assignment when they are drawn away to St Senan`s in the second round of the Challenge Cup. St Senan`s are able to parade a fomidable array of playing talent this season. Several players were involved in the Munster Junior Team that won the recent interprovincial series. They reputedly have a big, mobile pack and hard-running, free-scoring backs and they have chalked up some pretty impressive victories already this year. The Challenge Cup is a trophy that Abbeyfeale would dearly love to win, given it`s association with the club and with the O`Mahony Family. However, they will need to be at their very best if they are to overcome this strong St Senan`s XV and maintain their interest in the competition. Skipper, Murty Aherne, and Coach, Michael Foote, will no doubt have them well psyched-up for this encounter which could turn out to be an epic! It kicks-off in Rhinanna at 2.30 pm and extra time will be played if needed.r

FIXTURE; Munster Junior Clubs Challenge Cup. St Senan`s V Abbeyfeale. Rhinanna. Sunday 14th Oct. Kick-Off 2.30 pm.

Munster Junior League results. Sunday 7th Oct. Ennis 23, Abbeyfeale 26; Kinsale 20, Old Christians 3; St Mary`s 8, Douglas 24; St Senan`s 21, Ballincolig 0; Youghal 20, Kanturk 9.

Under Age Rugby Training for the U/10s and U/12s will start in The Grove on Sunday 21st October at 11am with coach, Paddy Lane. The U/14s will train on Wednesdays at 6.30 pm under coaches Mike Quinlan, Declan Woulfe and David Prendiville. The U/16s will train on Fridays at 6.30 under coach, Billy O`Rourke. The U/18s will also train on Fridays at 6.30 pm under coaches, David Collins and Michael Leahy. The Youth Officer for the club is David Collins and he can be contacted at 087-9151277 (M) or 068-31305 (H) All new players are welcome. No previous rugby experience is needed as full coaching will be given. So, if you think that you might be the next Ronan O`Gara or Keith Wood, or if you just fancy a social game of rugby, come along to any of the coaching sessions or contact any of the coaching staff or committee members for further details.

Pictures from Abbeyfeale V Highfield in Photo Album (Sports section)

ABBEYFEALE 14 ..................................................HIGHFIELD 13 1st Oct.

Abbeyfeale created another major upset in The Grove on Sunday when they defeated a very formidable Highfield XV in the first round of the Munster Junior Clubs Challenge Cup. On a day of high winds and heavy rain, a decent crowd braved the elements to witness this latest giant-killing act by an Abbeyfeale team that continues to show improvement with every performance

.Highfield arrived with impressive credentials and were technically superior in the set scrums and the line-outs, as was to be expected from a side that had plied its trade in senior rugby circles for the previous 48 years. However, Abbeyfeale showed the greater hunger and commitment, and their willingness to put bodies on the line and to go in where it hurt most, was probably the ultimate difference between the teams

Highfield had first use of the elements and it looked ominous when they kicked a penalty after just two minutes. The Fealesiders battled back manfully and some thumping tackles from Michael Foote, Murty Aherne, Adrian O`Halloran and others, signalled to Highfield that their re-introduction to the wonderful world of junior rugby might perhaps be a long and painful one. The visitors finally breached the Abbeyfeale try-line after twenty five minutes and another penalty just before the break gave them a 13-nil lead at half time.

Abbeyfeale began the second half with high hopes, but the visitors began to play it tight, denying the home side possession and refusing to put the ball at risk by moving it wide. The breakthrough came after twenty minutes when Craig Ansell finally put points on the board with a well struck penalty from forty yards. Abbeyfeale won another penalty close to the right hand touch-line and Ansell again elected to kick at goal when a strategically placed ball into the corner was the preferred option of most of the home crowd. However, Ansell made no mistake, landing his second penalty from a very acute angle. The pace of the game had upped considerably in the second half as The Fealesiders attempted to use the elements to their advantage. They were now faring much better in the scrums and line-outs. However, in their eagerness to gain possession, they showed a tendency to wander offside at the rucks and thus hand any advantage that they might have gained, back to the visitors. With seven minutes left on the clock, Ansell kicked a glorious drop-goal, following a sustained period of Abbeyfeale pressure. In the closing minutes, Abbeyfeale attacked in numbers but could gain no overall superiority against a dogged and determined Highfield defense.

The winning try, when it came, was a thing of sublime beauty and faultless execution. Picture the scene; Two minutes into injury time. Abbeyfeale trail by four points. Highfield have a line-out on their 22. It must be all over. Abbeyfeale can hardly win their own line-out ball. People begin to drift away to the warmth of the clubhouse where the bubbling aroma of hot lamb stew is already beginning to assail the nostrils. Highfield take the throw. Aherne puts himself about, causing the usual disruption. Suddenly the ball comes back on the Abbeyfeale side! Eamon Foley tidies up and takes it into the ruck. Back it comes and the pack drives again with Foote and Aherne controlling possession. It comes back a second time. David Prendiville feeds Ansell. He finds Naughton. Prendiville gets it again and feeds Ansell who now spreads it wide and picks out full-back, Liam Quirke, coming into the line at pace. Quirke straightens up the angle of attack and takes out two defenders before throwing a long pass out to Kevin Prendiville who has looped in from the opposite wing. The younger of the Prendiville brothers keeps his head and cooly draws in his man before offloading a precision pass to Declan White.The Abbeyfeale wing is left facing his opposite number on a one-to-one situation, but still has work to do. He takes on his man, bursts through the tackle and accelerates away to score in the corner amid scenes of unprecedented joy from the assembled aficionados. Ansell missed the difficult conversion, but it didn`t matter. Abbeyfeale had recorded another famous victory!

This was a splendid performance against a Highfield team that were raging hot favourites to win the fixture. Liam Quirke was a collossus at full-back, where his handling and tackling were faultless. Paudie Naughton and Andrew Scannell worked tirelessly, and attacked and defended with great composure. Declan White and Kevin Prendiville both have the winger`s eye for an attacking opportunity and combined well for the winning try. David Prendiville continues to impress (and improve) and his work-rate is phenominal. Craig Ansell quickly settled to the pace of the game and his goal kicking was vital. Matt Behan, Ian McMahon and Liam Herlihy will not face too many better front row combinations this season and they can be well pleased with their afternoon`s work. Adrian O`Halloran and David Curtin were giants in the second row, and drove and tackled tenaciously all afternoon. Nial Donovan and Murty Aherne covered every blade of grass and popped up all over the place to tease and torment the opposition. Michael Foote played a pivotol role between backs and forwards and called the shots accurately and with great assurance. In the replacements, Eamon Foley is back to his best, while John Sommers, Michael Murphy and Alan Supple all made major contributions when called into the action.

Team; Liam Quirke, Kevin Prendiville, Paudie Naughton, Andrew Scannell, Declan White, David Prendiville, Craig Ansell, Matt Behan, Ian McMahon, Liam Herlihy, Adrian O`Halloran, David Curtin, Niall Donovan, Murty Aherne (Capt) Michael Foote. Replacements Eamon Foley, John Sommers, Michael Murphy, Alan Supple.

Next Sunday, its back to the bread and butter stuff for Abbeyfeale when they travel to play Ennis in the Munster Junior League. If Abbeyfeale hope to make an impression in the league this year they will have to hit the ground running, and so a good start is vital. Ennis will prove a difficult team to beat and Abbeyfeale will have to reach the same high standard that they achieved against Highfield if they are to come away with the points. FIXTURE; Munster Junior League. Ennis V Abbeyfeale. In Ennis. Sunday 7th October. Kick-off 2.30 pm.

McMahon Cup

For the recent McMahon Cup game against Young Munster, the honour of captaining Abbeyfeale was handed to their young front-row forward, Ian McMahon. Ian is a nephew of the late Cyril McMahon after whom the Cyril McMahon Cup is named. And it was a proud moment for Ian and for all his family when he stepped up to receive the trophy following Abbeyfeale`s historic win over Munsters on a score of 13 points to 10

. CASTLEISLAND 2nd XV. 20 ............... ABBEYFEALE 2nd XV. 8

Abbeyfeale 2nd XV had a useful outing away to Castleisland on Saturday evening. Playing their first game of the season, The Fealesiders trailed by 12 points to nil at half time against a much-more experienced CastleislandXV. They improved considerably in the second half . Shane Curtin scored a good try and David Collins kicked a penalty to close the gap to 12-8. However, a late try and a penalty finally gave the home side a 20-8 victory. Abbeyfeale will benefit from this outing. On the day, they were best served by Ronan O`Rourke, Shane Curtin, Coleman Delee and Michael Murphy. Team; Declan Woulfe, Mike Leahy, Darragh O`Kelly, Mike Quirke, Matt Semple, Brian Foley, Kieran Collins (Capt) Ronan O`Rourke, Conor McMahon, Maurice Flynn, John Kelly, David Collins, Timmy Quilter, Shane Curtin, Coleman Delee. Replacements; Michael Murphy, Kevin O`Rourke.

YOUNG MUNSTER 10 .........................................ABBEYFEALE 13 23rd Sept

Abbeyfeale performed another giant-killing act on Sunday, and created something of an upset in the lofty environs of Limerick`s rugby circles when claiming the scalp of Young Munster and regaining the Cyril McMahon Cup.

Being fully aware of The Fealesiders heroics against a vaunted Blackrock side a few weeks previously, (even the Irish team are still showing the effects of THAT one!) Munsters paid Abbeyfeale the supreme compliment of fielding their strongest available team for this game, while Abbeyfeale were missing quite a few regulars, most notably their influential skipper, Murty Aherne.

Abbeyfeale looked much the more composed side in the early exchanges. Aidan O`Halloran and John Sommers secured good line-out ball. Michael Foote controlled matters at the base of the scrum. David Prendiville and Greg Ansell formed an effective partnership at scrum and fly-half respectively, and the backs showed a refreshing willingness to run the ball at Young Munster when the opportunity arose, with both Paudie Naughton and newcomer, Timmie Quilter, displaying some nice touches.

The early pressure paid off for Abbeyfeale when Ansell opened their account with a well-struck penalty after fifteen minutes. Munsters fought back tenaciously and began to create chances. On the half-hour, their scrum half tried a delicate cross-field chip that was cleverly intercepted by the alert Michael Foote. The Abbeyfeale number eight launched an immediate counter attack and ran at the Young Munster cover. There seemed to be very little on, as two defenders converged on him with murderous intent. However, the first defender was sold such an outrageouse dummy, that he almost had to pay to get back in to the ground! The second defender fared just as badly, being handed off with considerable ease as Foote raced over the line and touched down under the posts for a fine try that even the packed stand of Young Munster supporters grudgingly applauded. Ansell added the points and kicked another penalty to give The Fealesiders a 13-5 interval lead.

Munsters made some changes at half time but fared little better in the second half against a dogged Abbeyfeale defence that were now firing on all cylinders. Indeed, The Fealesiders might have been further ahead if they had been able to take all of their scoring chances. Young Munsters scored a second try close to the finish, but Abbeyfeale were not be denied and ran out deserving winners by 13 points to 10.

Following the game, Abbeyfeale captain Ian McMahon was presented with the Cyril McMahon Trophy by the Young Munster President, John McCarthy and by members of the McMahon family. The Young Munster team and officials were, as ever, gracious in defeat and wished Abbeyfeale well for the remainder of the season.

Team; Kevin Prendiville, Kieran Collins, Paudie Naughton, Timmie Quilter, Conor McMahon, David Prendiville, Greg Ansell, Liam Herlihy, Ian McMahon, (Capt) Matt Behan, John Sommers, Aidan O`Halloran, Diarmuid O`Leary, Niall Donovan, Michael Foote. Replacements; Alan Supple, Din McCarthy, Brian Foley, Ronan O`Rourke, Dick Woulfe, Mike Leahy.

Next Sunday, Abbeyfeale entertain Highfield in the first round of the Munster Junior Clubs Challenge Cup at The Grove. This will be a historic day as it will, we believe, be Highfield`s first ever visit to The Grove. They have been playing rugby at senior level over the past few seasons but were relegated last year. They will be anxious to regain their senior status as quickly as possible and will provide a stern test for Abbeyfeale.

The Fealesiders have quite an impressive record in this competition, having reached the final twice. They will be hoping for another good run this time around, and so a riveting game is in prospect. The kick-off is at 2 pm and a commemorative match programme will be distributed at the gate.

FIXTURE; Munster Junior Clubs Challenge Cup. Abbeyfeale V Highfield. The Grove. 2pm. Sunday 30th September.

CASTLEISLAND 5 ........ABBEYFEALE 19 (16th Sept)

Two second half tries from scrum-half, David Prendiville, helped Abbeyfeale to an impressive win over Castleisland in the first round of the McElligott last Sunday.

With several players unavailable, particularly in the backs, The Fealesiders were forced to re-arrange their defensive line-up. Paudie Naughton and Micheal Murphy were selected at first and second centre with, Diarmuid O`Leary and Kieran Collins operating on the wings.

The first half was evenly contested with both sides creating chances. Abbeyfeale scored the only try of the half when, following a series of rucks close to the Castleisland line, Michael Foote picked up and barged his way over. Greg Ansell`s conversion attempt came back off an upright to leave the score 5-0 in favour of the visitors at half time.

Abbeyfeale enjoyed the lion`s share of possession in the second half and were rewarded with two text-book tries. Twenty minutes into the half, Michael Foote broke from the back of a maul and took out two defenders before sending David Prendiville in for a fine try which Ansell converted.

Ten minutes later, the same two players combined to breach the Castleisland try-line for the second time, with Foote scooping the ball up from the back of a scrum and again dummying the defence before putting Prendiville in. Ansell converted and Abbeyfeale were home and dry. Castleisland secured a consolation try in the closing minutes.

Team; Kevin Prendiville, Diarmiud O`Leary, Paudie Naughton, Micheal Murphy. Kieran Collins, David Prendiville, Greg Ansell, Declan Woulfe, Ian McMahon, Liam Herlihy, David Curtin, Aidan O`Halloran, Niall Donovan, Murty Aherne (Capt) Michael Foote. Replacements; Alan Supple, Matt Behan, Din McCarthy, Michael Leahy, Matt Semple.

Next Sunday Abbeyfeale are away to Young Munster in the Cyril McMahon Cup.

The late Cyril McMahon (brother of former Abbeyfeale President, Barney) won two Munster Junior Cup medals with Abbeyfeale, and captained the side that won the trophy in 1966. In later years, he became very much involved with Young Munsters in Limerick and, over the past few seasons, both clubs have played annually for the Cyril McMahon Cup in his honour.

The game will be played in Limerick on Sunday with the time to be arranged.

ABBEYFEALE DENIED BY LATE PENALTY.

RICHMOND 18 ABBEYFEALE 15

On a weekend of sporting upsets, heroic performances and spectacular collapses in all the various codes, Abbeyfeale almost created the shock of the day in rugby when coming close to dumping Richmond out of the Transfield Cup in Limerick on Sunday. Richmond had defeated cup-holders, Bruff, the previous Sunday while Abbeyfeale looked less than impressive when beating Newcastlewest in The Grove. This second-round tie, therefore, had all the ingredients of a typical and biblical David versus Goliath confrontation. However, The Fealesiders showed scant regard for scripture, and even less for the reputations of their vaunted opponents. Straight from the kick-off they took the game to Richmond and attacked them from every angle and area of the pitch.The pack drove forward relentlessly, with MurtyAherne and Michael Footeputting in the big hits and keeping Richmond on the back foot. Behind the scrum, ConorMcMahon and Greg Ansell displayed some deft touches and created time and space to bring their backs in to play.\Richmond breached the opposition try-line twice in the first half. Abbeyfeale replied when Conor McMahon plucked the ball from the base of a ten-yard scrum and dummied his way over for an excellent try. Ansell missed the conversion but steered over a penalty from a difficult angle to leave Richmond leading 12-8 at the break. Midway through the second half, Richmond increased their lead with a penalty. The final quarter was played out at a fast and furious pace. Fifteen minutes from the end, Abbeyfeale instigated a smooth back-row move which ended with Foote0 barging over for a fine try. Ansell converted to level the scores, and it was game on! Ten minutes from time, Abbeyfeale were awarded a penalty just inside the opposition half but spurned the kick at goal in favour of running the ball. However, there was to be no fairytale ending. Six minutes from time, Richmond scored the wining penalty and , while both teams continued to create opportunities, this proved to be the final score of an enthralling and entertaining game. This was good team effort from Abbeyfeale. The coaching sessions are at last beginning to take effect and there is also a significant improvement in fitness levels. The first league game is now only a few weeks away. Let us hope that the improvements continue. Team; David Scannell, Diarmuid O`Leary, Kieran Collins, Packy O`Connor, David Goode, Conor McMahon, Greg Ansell, Liam Herlihy, Ian McMahon, Matt Behan, Aidan O`Halloran, Matt Semple, Murty Aherne (Capt) Niall Donovan, Michael Foote. Replacements; John Sommers, Declan Woulfe, Ronan O`Rourke

ABBEYFEALE 17. NEWCASTLEWEST 5.

27th August 2001; Abbeyfeale made a winning start to the new season and advanced to the second round of the Transfield Cup with a hard-fought win over an under-strength Newcastlewest side in The Grove on Sunday.

This was a typical start-of-season affair, and contained very little of the passion and resolve usually associated with a local derby. Abbeyfeale were also missing several key players and the lack of fitness and match-practise was very much in evidence on both sides from an early stage with numerous tackles being missed and passes being sprayed everywhere but where they were intended.

First half tries from Conor McMahon and Michael Foote and a conversion by Kevin Prendiville gave Abbeyfeale a 12-5 interval lead. The visitors enjoyed a larger share of possession in the second half and launched several threatening attacks, but these were competently dealt with. However, the issue was in doubt right up to the final quarter when replacement, John Sommers, finally breached the opposition try-line following a prolonged period of pressure from the Abbeyfeale pack.

This was a useful pipe-opener for Abbeyfeale and, while coach Michael Foote will have learned very little from the encounter, he should take some comfort from the fact that things can only get better!

Team; Kevin Prendiville, Shane Curtin, Packy O`Connor, Kieran Collins, David Goode, David Prendiville, Conor McMahon, Matt Behan, Ian McMahon, Liam Herlihy, Adrian O`Halloran, David Curtin, Murty Aherne (Capt) Diarmuid O`Leary, Michael Foote. Replacements; Micheal Murphy, John Sommers.

Next Sunday, Abbeyfeale are away to Richmond in the second round of the Transfield Cup. Richmond defeated the defending champions, Bruff, at the weekend and will provide stiff opposition and the first searching examination of the season for The Fealesiders.

ABBEYFEALE WIN PLATE!

21st August 2001; They were choking on their cornflakes in Dublin 4 last Saturday morning as news filtered through that some anonymous little junior team from the wilds of West Limerick had the audacity to defeat prestigeous Blackrock in an All Ireland competition. And, to make matters worse, they did it in the spiritual home of rugby - Thomond Park!

The event was the inaugral All Ireland Tag Rugby Sevens with teams from all over Ireland taking part.

Abbeyfeale came up against St Mary`s College, Terenure in the opening round and after a titanic struggle, they were eventually beaten by 4 tries to 3. However, they had laid down a marker, and other teams were beginning to take notice.

Next, it was the historic encounter with the above-mentioned Blackrock, and, as Abbeyfeale raced on to the pitch and in to the heat of battle, one Dublin aficionado was heard to loudly proclaim something about; "...poor lambs to the slaughter."

He was correct! The final score of 7 tries to 2 in favour of Abbeyfeale had grown men crying into their brandy and beer-chasers, and asking how such a thing could be allowed to happen. "The country is gone to rack and ruin," they moaned "and life as we know it, will never be the same again." Meanwhile, the cheers from the Abbeyfeale contingent could be heard all the way to the top of Barna.

Next up, was a crack Aer Lingus Team and, in the best game of the competition, honours were shared at 5 tries each. Aer Lingus went on to win the competition outright, while Abbeyfeale contested The Plate.

They faced Ballbriggan in the semi-final of The Plate and despatched them with a minimum of fuss by 7 tries to 2.

In the final, they met another Dublin team, DSLP, and following a memorable game, history was made when they ran out eventual winners by 6 tries to 3. The Abbeyfeale try-scorers in the final were Redmond Quigley, Michael Foote (2), Joe Beston, Packie O`Connor and Dan Gilmore.

The Abbeyfeale squad was as follows; David Goode (Capt) Packy O`Connor, Michael Foote, Dan Gilmore, Dan O`Connor, Redmond Quigley, Morgan McMahon, Conor McMahon, Diarmuid O`Leary, Joe Beston, Mike Quirke.

(One member of the squad, Sean Murphy, got lost on the way to Thomond Park and ended up in Thurles. Kerry and Dublin were playing in Thurles the same day, but he insists that this was pure coincidence!)

Following this historic and stunning achievement, there was understandable euphoria in the Abbeyfeale camp. However, coach Michael Foote, sounded a cautious note;

"We have Newcastlewest in the Transfield League on Sunday," he warned. "and they will give us a far tougher game than Blackrock ever could!"

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