1999 INTER FIRMS POOL SHIELD

Jimmy’ Tavern defeated Manchester United in a thrilling final watched by an appreciative gallery. Hero on the night was Kevin O’Donnell who won a play-off against ace snooker player Mark McGroary. Both players had won their singles so something had to give. Kevin was coolness personified in sinking the black to win two nil. Congratulations then to his team of Oliver and Tom Plunkett, and Michael Neary. The gallant losers were Mark, Francis Cassidy, Shane Faulkner and Seamus Faulkner.

CHRISTMAS HAMPER

Oliver Plunkett won the final snooker event of the century by defeating his brother Tom (for whom this was his third final in succession) in the Christmas Hamper. With sibling rivalry to the fore, it came as no surprise that the quality of the snooker was often mediocre; it took two hours to play the first four frames! But then Oliver showed just how good a competitor he is, winning the final frame easily thanks to a suffocating safety strategy which tied Tom up in knots. Oliver potted faultlessly to claim his second snooker title of the year following his success in the Canon McMullin, where he had also defeated his brother in the final. With two pool titles under his belt as well, Oliver was undoubtedly the player of the year. The beaten semi-finalists were Bertie Love and Terry Mullin.

JUNIOR HAMPER

Luke McGee won the Junior Hamper defeating Ernan Cassidy four two. Both players proved that junior talent is in abundance in the club and it is hoped that they will swell the senior ranks in the next century. Congratulations all round on a sporting final.

LEAGUES

Donegal gained several notable victories during December in both the Donegal and Derry leagues. League favourites Maxibreak from Derry were beaten four two as were G.P.O. Ramelton’s two teams were defeated three two and five nil respectively in the Donegal League. Thus, Donegal ended 1999 in second place in both the Derry and Donegal Leagues.

HARRY DIVER CUP

The Snooker Club is once again hosting the Veteran Tournament for the over-fifties, which was won in fine style by Donal Monaghan a year ago. The winner receives the Harry Diver Cup as well as a cash prize. We had over fifty entrants last year so if you have reached a ‘mature’ age get the cue out of the attic and try your luck. Each player will be handicapped, with last year’s performances taken into account. Matches are decided over three frames and entries are being accepted by Kieran Temple, Martin Mulhern, John McGlanaghey, Jackie McMullin, Alan Ramsay or any other member of the club.