Senior / Division 1

ACFL Division 1 2025

[2025-03-22]

Garrycastle 3-09, Tyrellspass 1-13

The Division 1 team made it three wins from three outings with a hard-won victory over Tyrellspass in Tyrellspass on Saturday afternoon. It is often said that goals win matches, and the Garrycastle team were well-served by Conor Cosgrove in this regard, as he posted a personal tally of 3-03.

Team: Sean Brennan, Killian Redmond, Jack Donohue, Matthew Guiheen, James Dolan, Mark McCallon, Cathal Mannion, Andrew Monaghan (0-01), Eoin Monaghan, Jamie Carroll (0-01), Michael Monaghan (0-01), Ben Donegan (0-01), Conor McKiernan (0-01), Conor Cosgrove (3-03), Dylan Keegan (0-01).

Subs: James Sheerin, John Gaffey, Diarmaid Murtagh.

[2025-03-07]

Garrycastle 2-10, Coralstown/Kinnegad 0-12.

Garrycastle made it two wins from 2 outings when defeating Coralstown/Kinnegad in a competitive game in Garrycastle on Friday evening. Garrycastle started strongly, and settled quickly with an early goal from Jamie Carroll, and an excellent point from a free by Conor Cosgrove, settling into a 1-04 to 0-02 lead after the first quarter. However, the second quarter was a different affair, with the visitors starting to win the midfield battles, and they slowly reeled in the Garrycastle lead, a highlight being a massive 2-point score from distance, to lead at the half-time break by a single point, Garrycastle 1-04, Coralstown/Kinnegad 0-08.

The second half started in a similar fashion, with the visitors extending their lead courtesy of a brace of points, before a great move upfield saw Michael Monaghan in space and he sent an unstoppable shot high into the net to level the scores. This seemed to act as a spur to the Garrycastle lads, who started winning in midfield, and drove on to score a further six unanswered points to lead by six as the match neared injury time. Indeed the lead could have been greater as James Dolan found himself in space with just the keeper to beat, but his shot blazed just wide.

As the game came to a close, an off-the ball incident, which was not seen by the referee, resulted in a lengthy interruption to play while Jason Nugent was attended to, and consequently he had to leave the game. As the game wound down in injury time, the visitors scored two late points, both from close-in frees, awarded seemingly as a consequence of the home team not keeping three players up, in accordance with the new rules.

The final score saw Garrycastle victorious by a margin of four points. Overall this was an entertaining game for the time of year, and there were some great performances around the pitch from the home team, of which the contribution of the three Monaghan brothers caught the eye.

Team: Sean Brennan, Killian Redmond, Jack Donohue, Matthew Guiheen, James Dolan (0-01), Mark McCallon, Cathal Mannion, Eoin Mulvihill, Andrew Monaghan (0-01), Jamie Carroll (1-00), Michael Monaghan (1-03), Jason Nugent (0-01), Eoin Monaghan, Conor Cosgrove (0-04), Ben Donegan.

Subs: Dylan Keegan, Diarmuid Murtagh.

[2025-02-18]

Garrycastle 3-11, Athlone 1-13

Team: Sean Brennan, Jack Mulvihill, Jack Donohue, Matthew Guiheen, Killian Redmond, Mark McCallon, Cathal Mannion (0-02), Conor McKiernan, Eoin Mulvihill, James Dolan, Michael Monaghan (0-03), Jason Nugent (0-01), Andrew Monaghan, Conor Cosgrove (1-03), Ben Donegan(0-02)

Subs. Eoin Monaghan, Patrick McKiernan, Jamie Carroll (2-00)

2024

Leinster Intermediate C'ship Semi-Final

[2024-11-23]

Garrycastle 1-12, Naomh Mearnóg (Dublin) 2-10

Garrycastle exited the Leinster Intermediate club championship at the semi-final stage when they lost out by a single point to Dublin champions Naomh Mearnóg in Balgriffin on Saturday afternoon. In the absence of Jack Donohoe, Michael Monaghan took on the captains role, and a reshuffling of the team saw Cathal Mannion moved back to the half-back line and Rory McGowan starting in the forward line. An early attack saw Jason Nugent kick wide before a Naomh Mearnóg free-kick which dropped short was eventually scrambled clear by the hard-working Jack Mulvihill. Both teams then exchanged scores, a Ben Donegan effort from play cancelling an earlier Naomh Mearnóg opener. A sloppy Garrycastle side-line kick was quickly punished with the lead again from the Dublin club before a great score from James Dolan levelled matters, after he had won a mark and some fast interplay with Jason. Garrycastle were winning much of the midfield battles, with the Naomh Mearnóg keeper unable to get his clearances away, but it was the Dublin side who re-took the lead before Conor Cosgrove levelled again from a free after Eoin Monaghan had been fouled.

Garrycastle took the lead for the first time with a point from Rory McGowan, before disaster struck, when a clearance from Naomh Mearnóg saw them straight in on goal with a three-vs-two advantage, from which the ball was eventually palmed to the net for the lead, and they extended this moments later with a point from play. Garrycastle reduced the deficit with another pointed free from Conor, but worryingly the wides count kept increasing, as well as the number of shots dropped short. Two more scores before half-time, the first a well-taken score from Jason after good build up play involving James and Ben, the second a free from Conor on the half-hour mark, were cancelled out by two scores from Naomh Mearnóg, leaving Garrycastle adrift by two points at half time, on a scoreline of 0-07 to 1-06.

The second half began with a point from Ben, taking advantage of some great work by Michael Monaghan in winning the ball. The Dublin side responded in kind, before Cian McCarthy hit a huge point from distance to reduce the deficit to the minimum again. James Sheerin was then introduced to the fray, moving to the edge of the square, with Conor coming out to the centre-forward position. Naomh Mearnóg then pointed again, before a moment of real controversy, when the referee inadvertently blocked James Dolan as he went to intercept a Naomh Mearnóg forward, who then continued on unimpeded to give Sean Brennan no chance in the Garrycastle goal.

Indeed it could have immediately been worse as the next attack by the Dublin side came back off the post and the rebound was in turn hit off the crossbar before being cleared.

To the credit of the Garrycastle team, they fought back into the match – first a point from play by Eoin Monaghan, followed by a pointed free from Michael Monaghan after he was dragged down on his way to goal, which eventually resulted in a black card for the defender after the referee had consulted his umpires. Indeed, it could have been much better for Garrycastle as a flowing move between Ben and Cian, saw Michael played in on goal, but his shot was well saved by the Naomh Mearnóg keeper.

With 10 minutes left, Garrycastle trailed by three points. At this stage, Jamie Carroll was introduced to the fray, and shortly after an Eoin Mulvihill point narrowed the deficit to two points. Ger Heneghan was introduced also, but the wides count kept mounting.

Then with only two minutes of normal time remaining, an attack along the end line saw the ball played across the face of the goal, and Jamie was there to tap in to give Garrycastle the lead.

The linesman indicated 2 additional minutes to play, and a Naomh Mearnóg attack in the first minute of added time resulted in a point which looked to many as if it had gone wide to level the game again. At this stage, extra-time looked more and more possible, however, as the clock ran down the referee penalised a Garrycastle player for seemingly over-carrying when a free the other way seemed more likely, the net result of which was the lead back to Naomh Mearnóg. As the kickout was launched, the referee blew the final whistle, and Garrycastle had lost by the minimum.

Overall this was an enthralling match that the Garrycastle team may perhaps feel they left behind them, but they met a Naomh Mearnóg team who had the rub of the green when they needed it most. For Garrycastle, a season which delivered a Division 2 title, as well as an immediate return to the senior grade is a great achievement, and all of the players, management and supporters can now look forward with great confidence to the 2025 season.

Team: Sean Brennan, Jack Mulvihill, Gary McCallon, Matthew Guiheen, James Dolan (0-01), Mark McCallon, Cathal Mannion, Eoin Mulvihill (0-01), Cian McCarthy (0-01), Michael Monaghan (0-01, 1f), Eoin Monaghan (0-01), Jason Nugent (0-01), Rory McGowan (0-01), Conor Cosgrove (0-03, 3f), Ben Donegan (0-02).

Subs: James Sheerin for McGowan (40 mins), Jamie Carroll (1-00) for Nugent (50 mins), Ger Heneghan for Cosgrove (56 mins).

Leinster Intermediate C'ship Quarter-Final

[2024-11-09]

Garrycastle 0-18, Clonbullogue (Offaly) 0-13

Garrycastle played the Offaly Intermediate champions, Clonbullogue, in the quarter-finals of this year’s Leinster Intermediate Club Championship in Gracepark, Offaly on Saturday afternoon, in great weather conditions, and with a large travelling support present.

From the throw-in, Clonbullogue immediately attacked and had the first score on the board within 15 seconds. Garrycastle responded immediately with a great move involving Michael and Eoin Monaghan, but the final shot was well saved and the resultant 45-meter free was dropped short by Sean Brennan. The Offaly men attacked again and were rewarded with a point from play. Garrycastle then had a let-off as a close-in free was taken quickly but Sean was alert to the danger and got down smartly to save low to his right.

It took Garrycastle almost nine minutes to register their first score, a pointed free from Conor Cosgrove. However, Clonbullogue took over again and scored the next two points from play, the first in particular being a fantastic score from out wide almost on the side-line. Approaching the quarter-hour mark, a great move saw Conor Cosgrove in space and he drilled the ball which flew just over the crossbar, when perhaps a goal was on. A further flowing move with great interplay between Jason Nugent and Michael Monaghan saw Michael score to narrow the gap between the teams to a single point.

A period of sloppy play followed, characterised by poor handling by both teams, but it was Garrycastle who were punished from a free after a poor hand pass. A nice Garrycastle move saw Conor Cosgrove tap over a great point, but an incident was then drawn to the referees attention by the linesman on the stand side, and after a long consultation, he issued no fewer than four yellow cards, with both James Dolan and Mattie Guiheen being carded.

The Offaly men scored again to extend their lead, when with 20 minutes gone, James Dolan was put through by Jason Nugent, but his shot was brilliantly saved. However, the Clonbullogue goalkeeper picked up an injury in saving the shot and had to be replaced. In the next few minutes the teams traded scores on four occasions, the Garrycastle scores being a pointed free for Conor, and a point from play by Jason after some great work by Ben Donegan.

Garrycastle then had a huge let-off, when a high ball was misjudged by the Garrycastle back-line and a Clonbullogue player was straight in, but missed the open goal, skying the ball over the bar instead. Andrew Monaghan then reduced the gap with a point from play, before Clonbullogue were temporarily reduced to 14 men when one of their midfielders picked up a black card for a body check on James Dolan. Trying to take advantage of their spare man, Garrycastle immediately attacked but a great move only resulted in a wide from Jason. More drama in the Garrycastle goalmouth as Sean Brennan was called on to make a great save at the cost of a 45-meter free which was dutifully converted. Shortly after, Clonbullogue picked up another yellow card after a poor foul on Jack Mulvihill. As normal time came to an end, a great run forward from Eoin Mulvihill saw him score a great individual point, but it was the Offaly men who closed out the first half scoring, to leave Garrycastle three behind at the break, 0-11 to 0-08.

Cathal Mannion was introduced at the start of the second half, and he was immediately involved, scoring after three minutes to narrow the gap. Drama again, as a flowing move involving Jason, Eoin Monaghan and James Dolan, saw the latter’s goal bound shot denied yet again by the Clonbullogue keeper. Garrycastle were now in the ascendancy, and further scores from Conor and Michael, (a pointed free that went in off the post) drew the teams level for the first time in the match. The match became a little scrappy and bad tempered, and a foul on Andrew drew yet another yellow card for the Offaly men, before a point from Conor pushed Garrycastle into the lead for the first time. Clonbullogue responded with a brace of points to retake the lead, but those were to be their last scores of the game as Garrycastle started to take over around the pitch. A great individual point from James levelled the game again, sandwiched between wides from Michael and Conor, before an absolutely huge score from Andrew Monaghan pushed Garrycastle back in front. A foul on James was expertly knocked over by Sean Brennan with eight minutes left, but as Garrycastle pushed forward, a high ball which looked to be going over by the Clonbullogue men came back off the post and it needed some smart defending by Jack Mulvihill to clear the danger. In the last two minutes of normal time, Andrew scored again to put three points between the teams. As the game entered added time, Sean was called on once again, and he dutifully converted the free. Andrew Monaghan then had to leave the field after picking up an injury, replaced by Ger Heneghan, before Jason, from play, closed out the scoring for the match in the fourth minute of added time.

All in all, this was a good Garrycastle performance, especially in the second half, with an eight-point turnaround. Both teams had multiple goal possibilities, but the goalkeepers on both sides were equal to them. From here, the next step is a Leinster semi-final in 2 weeks’ time against Naomh Mearnóg from Dublin.

Team: Sean Brennan (0-02, 2f), Jack Mulvihill, Jack Donohoe (Capt.), Gary McCallon, James Dolan (0-01), Mark McCallon, Matthew Guiheen, Eoin Mulvihill (0-01), Eoin Monaghan, Andrew Monaghan (0-03), Michael Monaghan (0-02, 1f), Jason Nugent (0-02), Cian McCarthy, Conor Cosgrove (0-06, 3f), Ben Donegan.

Subs: Cathal Mannion (0-01) for Donegan (half-time), James Sheering for E Monaghan (43 mins), Rory McGowan for McCarthy (57 mins), Jamie Carroll for Cosgrove (59 mins), Ger Heneghan for A Monaghan (inj. 62 mins).

Leinster Intermediate C'ship

[2024-11-02]

Garrycastle 0-11, Fenagh (Carlow) 0-09

Garrycastle progress to the quarter-finals of this years AIB Lienster Intermediate club championship after a very hard-fought victory over Fenagh in Carlow on Saturday evening. Garrycastle made two changes to the listed team before kick-off, with Cian McCarthy and John Gaffey introduced for Andrew Monaghan and Ben Donegan respectively, with Cian slotting into midfield, John going to the half-back line and Eoin Monaghan moving to the forward line.

It was Fenagh who struck first, with a point straight from the throw in, with 16 seconds on the clock. Garrycastle responded immediately, with a point from Conor Cosgrove before the end of the first minute. A frenetic, high scoring, game seemed to be in the offing, but instead, after the initial excitement, the game settled down to a more normal pace. Garrycastle were playing well, including some excellent high fielding in the center of the field from Eoin Mulvihill, but their shooting boots were not working, and they clocked up wides from James Dolan, Jason Nugent and Eoin Monaghan before Fenagh scored their second point after 10 minutes.

Again, Garrycastle struck back when Cathal Mannion pointed, capitalising on a poor fisted clearance from the Fenagh goalkeeper. Further wides followed from Eoin Monaghan and Cathal, from distance, before Eoin Mulvihill steadied the ship on the quarter-hour mark with a sublime point after a great pass from Michael Monaghan.

Again, Fenagh struck to level the match, but then Garrycastle hit a purple patch and scored three unanswered points, the first a free by Sean Brennan after Jason Nugent was fouled, the second a great score by Jason Nugent in full flow, and the third from Michal Monaghan after some great interplay between his brother Eoin, Jason and himself. In between Eoin Monaghan had a shot come back off the upright. Then with only two minutes left in the first half, Garrycastle gave up two close-in frees, allowing Fenagh to close the gap to the minimum. A late attempt by Cathal just trailed wide, leaving half-time score at 0-06 to 0-05 in favour of Garrycastle.

It was a good first half by Garrycastle, but even though they had scored 6 points, they also had seven wides, and their grip on the center of the field was waning somewhat as the half ended.

Garrycastle had no personnel changes for the second half, although James Dolan moved in to the forward line with Eoin Monaghan coming out to the center forward line. Fenagh attacked directly from the throw in but sent the ball wide. From the resulting kickout, Eoin Mulvihill caught the ball cleanly and played a long pass in to Conor Cosgrove who deftly kicked the ball over the bar to increase the Garrycastle lead. Moments later Michael Monaghan had a wide from a free out by the side-line on the stand side and it seemed as if Garrycastle would push on now to control the game.

However, Fenagh stormed back and were rewarded with a converted free to narrow the gap. Trouble then beckoned for Garrycastle as Jack Mulvihill was shown a black card, and Fenagh piled on the pressure to try and take advantage of their extra man. Garrycastle weathered the initial storm, and could have had a goal when a free from Conor Cosgrove was missed, but the ball found its way to Michael Monaghan who was blocked down as he struck for goal.

Garrycastle introduced Rory McGowan for Cian McCarthy after 40 minutes but it was Fenagh who now took the upper hand. First, their midfielder broke straight through but his shot on goal was easily handled by Sean Brennan, but then within a minute they levelled the game from a close-in free.

It was all-square at the three-quarter mark. A foul on Rory gave Conor an opportunity, but the free was sent wide. And from the resulting kickout, the ball was moved very quickly down the field, and ended in a free for Fenagh and a black card for Mark McCallon. The free was scored, and another free within two minutes saw Fenagh move two points in front with less than ten minutes to play.

Garrycastle rang the changes now with Jamie Carroll, Ger Heneghan and James Sheerin introduced. However, it was Fenagh who almost struck next, when a thunderbolt shot came back off the post for a lucky escape for the Garrycastle lads.

The game now shifted again, with the introduced substitutes making a difference. First, James Sheerin claiming a mark and pointing it to reduce the arrears, and then Jamie Carroll levelling the game with a great point which just crept inside the near upright. As the game entered the last minute of normal time, James Sheerin scored again to push Garrycastle in front.

The referee indicated four minutes of additional time, and in the first of those, a great move started by Michael Monaghan and involving Ben and Jamie saw Jamie fouled, and Michael slotted over the free to provide a two point cushion. Fenagh’s discipline now let them down, as firstly their influential midfielder was shown a second yellow card and sent off, and then a substitute who had just been introduced was shown a straight red card for a foul on Mark McCallon.

Garrycastle held on in those final minutes and it was a clearly relieved team and their travelling supporters who celebrated at the sound of the final whistle.

Final score was Garrycastle 0-11, Fenagh 0-09.

Team: Sean Brennan (0-01, 1f), Jack Mulvihill, Jack Donohoe, Gary McCallon, James Dolan, Mark McCallon, Matthew Guiheen, Eoin Mulvihill (0-01), Eoin Monaghan, Cian McCarthy, Michael Monaghan (0-02, 1f), Jason Nugent (0-01), Cathal Mannion (0-01), Conor Cosgrove (0-02), John Gaffey.

Subs: Rory McGowan for McCarthy (40 mins), Ben Donegan for Nugent (44 mins), Jamie Carroll (0-01) for Mannion (49 mins), Ger Heneghan for E Monaghan (51 mins), James Sheerin (0-02, 1f) for Cosgrove (52 minutes).

Intermediate Final Replay

[2024-10-28]

Garrycastle 0-13, Milltown 0-07

The Intermediate Final replay in Lakepoint Park, Mullingar saw Garrycastle take the laurels, and return to the Westmeath Senior championship in 2025. On a beautiful afternoon, and with a large crowd in attendance, Garrycastle started with two changes to the team listed in the programme, Cian McCarthy and John Gaffey starting in place of Ben Donegan and Cathal Mannion respectively. A small re-shuffle saw James Dolan in the forward line, with John Gaffey in the half backs and Cian introduced into the centre of the park.

Garrycastle opened their account in the third minute with a free from Conor Cosgrove after Eoin Mulvihill had been fouled. Milltown quickly levelled matters, before taking the lead from a close-in free. Again, Garrycastle levelled (another free from Conor), before taking the lead with a great score from Eoin Monaghan following some fine interplay with this brother Michael. Again Milltown equalised and then retook the lead again a few minutes later after a Garrycastle move broke down and was punished in a quick counter attack. Conor again stepped up to equalise with a point from play following a good move involving James Dolan, and Garrycastle retook the lead after a high ball from the side of the pitch by Andrew Monaghan caused chaos in the Milltown defence and the resulting free was kicked over by Conor. As the half ended, Milltown again levelled matters, although Garrycastle had two late wides as the half ended from Andrew and John Gaffey. All level at half-time, 0-05 apiece.

Garrycastle made no changes as the second half started, and the game restarted poorly with multiple handling errors on both sides. It took seven minutes of the second half before Milltown regained the lead, but that was to be the last time they scored until injury time.

Garrycastle introduced Rory McGowan, and he was involved early, however it was a marauding run from corner back Jack Mulvihill, with some nice interplay with the impressive Mattie Guiheen that result in an equalising score for Jack, and from then on, it was almost all Garrycastle. Conor punished a foul on himself by pointing the free, and then Michael Monaghan pointed another free to put Garrycastle two points in front. The same player then scored three quick-fire points, the first a free after a foul on Eoin Mulvihill, the other two points coming from play to push Garrycastle five points in front.

Garrycastle were by now well in control in the middle third of the field, and picked up some important marks from Mattie and Eoin Mulvihill. The game wasn’t over by any stretch though, as twice in the space of two minutes, Milltown had two great goal chances, the first flashing across the goal, the second resulting in a scrambled clearance from a breaking ball.

Garrycastle introduced Ben Donegan for John Gaffey with about 10 minutes of normal time remaining, and almost immediately he had a great solo run just break down when it looked like a goal may be on. Garrycastle really pushed on now, and further points from Eoin Mulvihill after a great pass from Jason Nugent, and then from Jason himself after being played in by Michael Monaghan gave Garrycastle a seven point cushion as normal time ended. As extra time began, John Gaffey came back in for Eoin Monaghan, Cathal Mannion was introduced for Conor Cosgrove and Ger Heneghan was brought in for Jason Nugent. Milltown peppered the Garrycastle defence for the five minutes of extra time, finally scoring only their second point of the half from a close-in free deep in injury time.

As the final whistle blew, there was great excitement from the large Garrycastle crowd in attendance, and it was a very happy captain Jack Donohoe who accepted the Peter Geraghty cup on behalf of the victorious Garrycastle team.

Final score was Garrycastle 0-13, Milltown 0-07.

Team: Sean Brennan, Jack Mulvihill (0-01), Jack Donohoe, Gary McCallon, James Dolan, Mark McCallon, Matthew Guiheen, Eoin Mulvihill (0-01), Andrew Monaghan, Michael Monaghan (0-04, 3f), Eoin Monaghan (0-01), Jason Nugent (0-01), John Gaffey, Conor Cosgrove (0-05, 4f), Cian McCarthy.

Subs: Rory McGowan for McCarthy (35 mins), Ben Donegan for Gaffey (52 mins), John Gaffey for E Monaghan (60 mins), Cathal Mannion for Cosgrove (60 mins), Ger Heneghan for Nugent (30+2 minutes).

Intermediate Final

[2024-10-20]

Garrycastle 0-09, Milltown 1-06

The intermediate final, played on Sunday afternoon in Mullingar in the teeth of a wind and rain storm ended all-square and heads to a replay. In truth, Garrycastle can feel somewhat lucky at getting a second chance, as a close-in free for Milltown directly in front of the goals with only a minute of normal time left was dropped short and cleared by the Garrycastle defence. A point at that stage would surely have won the game for Milltown.

Garrycastle started with one change from the team listed in the program – Cian McCarthy starting in place of Ben Donegan, giving another target man for kickouts in the centre of the field. Electing to play against the very strong wind in the first half, Garrycastle settled quickly and opened their account with a pointed free from Michael Monaghan in the 7th minute. However, almost immediately, a high ball kicked toward the Garrycastle goalmouth caused consternation in the defence which gave away a penalty, expertly slotted home, to put Milltown into the lead. Garrycastle fought back and points from Monaghan again, James Dolan and Jason Nugent restored their lead by the quarter-hour mark.

The second quarter belonged to Milltown though who reeled off 4 points to one for the Garrycastle lads – that being an audacious effort from Andrew Monaghan which was originally waved wide by the umpire, but after a discussion between referee, umpires and linesman, was eventually waved over. The half-time score was Milltown 1-04, Garrycastle 0-05.

Turning to play with the wind and rain in the second half, Garrycastle made a positional switch, with James Dolan moving to the edge of the square, but started slowly, and Milltown took full advantage, extending their lead with two points in quick succession, the second from a free after the kickout for the first point was adjudged not to have travelled the correct distance. Now 4 points in front, Milltown withdrew inside their own 45-meter line, inviting Garrycastle to try to get scores against a very tight defensive unit. It took 12 minutes before Garrycastle got their next scores – two pointed frees from Michael Monaghan closing the gap. Another point from play by James Dolan reduced the difference to the minimum at the end of the third quarter, but the expected pressing of their advantage by Garrycastle did not materialise. Conor Cosgrove kicked an excellent score from play with 8 minutes remaining in normal time to level the match – and that was to be the last time either team troubled the scorekeeper.

On a very rare foray into the Garrycastle half, Milltown won the aforementioned close-in free almost directly in front of the goals with only a minute remaining in normal time, but to the relief of the large Garrycastle contingent in the crowd, the free dropped short and was well cleared.

Even with 3 minutes of additional time being played, neither team looked likely to score again, with defences well on top by this stage, so a draw was how it ended, which was a fair result for both teams.

In truth, neither team seemed to adjust particularly well to the conditions, continuing with a short hand-passing game, when perhaps using the wind to drop a long ball in on a target man may have paid dividends.

Team: Sean Brennan, Jack Mulvihill, Jack Donohoe, Gary McCallon, James Dolan (0-02), Mark McCallon, Matthew Guiheen, Eoin Mulvihill, Andrew Monaghan (0-01), Michael Monaghan (0-04, 4f), Eoin Monaghan, Jason Nugent (0-01), Cathal Mannion, Conor Cosgrove (0-01), Cian McCarthy. Subs: Ben Donegan for Mannion (42 mins), Rory McGowan for E Monaghan (43 mins), John Gaffey for Nugent (57 mins), James Sheerin for McCarthy (30+2 mins).

Intermediate Team before the County Semi-Final vs Multyfarnham.

Intermediate Semi-Final

[2024-09-29]

Garrycastle 2-19, Multyfarnham 2-04

The Intermediate side booked their place in the Intermediate County Final with an impressive second half performance over Multyfarnham. Garrycastle started playing into a stiff breeze and did very well to go in at the break only trailing by a point, 1-04 to 0-06. In the second half, and now with the assistance of the wind, the ‘Castle played with great determination and defending strongly and takin some well worked scores, they dominated to win comfortably in the end.

They will now face Milltown in the intermediate final, seeking a return to the senior ranks at the first time of asking.

Garrycastle 2-19 Multyfarnham 2-04

Sean Brennan (0-01), Jack Mulvihill, Jack Donohue, Gary McCallon, Eoin Mulvihill (0-02), Mark McCallon (0-01), Matthew Guiheen, Conor McKiernan, Andrew Monaghan (0-01), Michael Monaghan (0-05), Eoin Monaghan (0-02), Jason Nugent, Cathal Mannion, James Dolan (1-03), Conor Cosgrove (1-01).

Subs used: Rory McGowan, Ben Donegan (0-01), Jamie Carroll (0-01), John Gaffey, James Sheerin (0-01).

ACFL Div.4 Champions 2022

Garrycastle 1-11, The Downs 0-12

Team:
Shane Moran, Anthony Larkin, Fergal Mc Kiernan, Cathal Redmond, Gary Mullery, Fergal O' Reilly, Neal Rattigan, Johnny McGuire, Conor McKiernan, Enda Keena, Ciaran O'Neill, Ben Donegan, Conor Cosgrove, Ger Heneghan, Brian Ruane,
Subs: John O'Shea Sharkey, Patrick McKiernan, Shane McEnery, Sean Carey
Rest of Panel: Peadar Mulvihill, Andrew Ruane, Eric Kearney, Daniel Guinan, Kenny Dolan, Cathal Mannion, Adam Keena, Michael Greene, Sean Doak.

2019 - Senior

Senior Team Management for 2019

The Garrycastle senior team will be managed in 2019 by Gary Dolan.

Gary will be assisted by John Keane (Trainer) and Francis Doolin (Selector).

Senior County Championship Final : October 13th

Garrycastle 2-13, St. Lomans Mullingar 3-06

Garrycastle brought home the Flanagan trophy for the 8th time, after a hard fought come-from-behind win over St. Lomans Mullingar in TEG Cusack Park.

Read the match report for all the details!

Senior Championship Semi-Final : September 21st

Garrycastle 1-09, Mullingar Shamrocks 0-06

Garrycastle advance to the county final, after beating the 2018 champions in the semi-final.

Read the match report for all the details!

Senior Championship Group A

Garrycastle will compete in the Senior Championship in Group 1, alongside Athlone, Mullingar Shamrocks, St. Lomans, The Downs and Tyrellspass.

The match schedule is as follows (but please check the fixtures page in case of change).

Fixtures :

Results:

July 13: Garrycastle 1-14, Mullingar Shamrocks 0-09 Match Report
July 24: Garrycastle 1-14, The Downs 0-13 Match Report
August 4: Garrycastle 2-13, Tyrellspass 0-11 Match Report
August 11: Garrycastle 2-13, Athlone 0-07 Match Report
August 18: Garrycastle 2-12, St. Lomans Mullingar 5-14 Match Report

League Table:

The current table and all match results may be found on the Westmeath GAA website.

Garrycastle finish second in the Group A table, and qualify directly to a county semi-final.

All County League Division 1 Final : July 5th

Garrycastle 2-16, Rosemount 1-05

Garrycastle retain the Division 1 title in some style at TEG Cusack Park.

Read the full Match Report here.

The Division 1 trophy was accepted by Captain, Doron Harte, presented by club stalwart Dermot Ryan.

All-County League Division 1

Division 1 for 2019 is comprised of Athlone, Coralstown/Kinnegad, Garrycastle, Mullingar Shamrocks, Na Dúnta, Rosemount, Shandonagh, St. Lomans Mullingar, Tang and Tyrellspass.

The match schedule is as follows (but please check the fixtures page in case of change).

Fixtures :

Results:

March 2: Tang 1-08, Garrycastle 1-04. Match Report
March 24: Rosemount 0-14, Garrycastle 0-09. Match Report
March 29: Na Dúnta 3-08, Garrycastle 1-14. Match Report
April 12: Garrycastle 3-19, Coralstown/Kinnegad 1-10 Match Report
April 16: Garrycastle 1-11, Athlone 0-05 Match Report
April 27: Garrycastle 1-16, St. Lomans Mullingar 1-06 Match Report
May 3: Garrycastle 2-12, Shandonagh 1-08 Match Report
May 18: Mullingar Shamrocks 0-12, Garrycastle 1-08 Match Report
June 9: Garrycastle 1-14, Tyrellspass 0-12 Match Report

Garrycastle finish second in Division 1 (behind Rosemount), and qualify for the Division 1 final.

League Table:

The current league table and all match results may be found on the Westmeath GAA website.

2018

Senior Championship Draw 2018

Garrycastle have been drawn in Group 2 of the Senior Football Championship in 2018. The other teams in the group are:- Maryland, St Mary's Rochfordbridge, Castledaly, Rosemount and Mullingar Shamrocks.

Division 1 Champions 2018 !

The Garrycastle Division 1 team overcame great rivals St. Lomans Mullingar, to win the Division 1 title in Cusack Park on Saturday June 30th. After a great league campaign, which saw only one game lost along the way, Garrycastle qualified for the final by virtue of topping the Division 1 table.

the final was a very evenly matched affair, with two separate periods of extra time being needed before the teams could be separated on the scoreboard.

You can read the details in the Match report.

A full set of images from the final has been kindly provided by :

Ciaran Harte, https://www.facebook.com/fear.pictiur

...or you can see them here:

Photo Album: Garrycastle vs St.Lomans

Training times:

Training times for the senior squad will be will be posted here once available..

County Final Oct. 21st 2012

The Match report is available here.

Results / Reports from 2012

(Match reports can also be selected from the menu at the left).

ALL COUNTY LEAGUE (Division1 - 6 October 2012)

GARRYCASTLE 3-10 TANG 0-7

Garrycastle kept their quest for Division 1 league honours on track with a well merited win over Tang in Tang last Saturday evening. The game was switched from Garrycastle as the pitch there was unplayable.

It was evident in the early exchanges that Garrycastle had not played for almost 3 weeks as they struggled to put any decent passages of play together. Tang had the lead with a point in the 3rd minute but Garrycastle responded with pointed frees from Conor Cosgrove to lead by the 9th minute. The sides exchanged points, with the Garrycastle scores coming from James Duignan and Neil Rattigan from play to be level on 0-4 each by the 19th minute. Garrycastle grabbed a decisive lead with a couple of goals within a two minute spell, the first coming via the fist of Conor Cosgrove who was on the end of a high delivery into the Tang goalmouth and the second from Patrick Mulvihill after good approach play. Another point from Eoin Monaghan was replied to by a point for Tang in first half injury timer to leave the scoreline 2-5 to0-5 at the break in Garrycastle’s favour.

Tang had a point from a free shortly after the resumption but a third Garrycastle goal in the 34th minute from Eoin Monaghan all but settled the issue. Further points from Eoin Monaghan and Robbie Fox extended their lead. Tang had a point from a free in the 41st minute. Points from Garrycastle substitutes, Ciaran O’Neill and two from James Dolan saw out the match on a scoreline of 3-10 to 0-7.

There were good displays from Enda Mulvihill and Matthew Guiheen in defence. David O’Shaughnessy and Aidan Browne held sway in the centre. Patrick Mulvihill and Eoin Monaghan caught the eye in attack. Garrycastle were missing a number of regulars, but on this display they will struggle to win the county final in two weeks. Mullingar Shamrocks and Garrycastle have agreed to double up for the league in their county final fixture, so the outcome of that game could see Garrycastle clinch the division 1 title.

GARRYCASTLE: Cathal Mullin, Alan Fox, Enda Mulvihill, Gary McCallon, Matthew Guiheen, Mark McCallon, Robbie Fox (0-1), Aidan Browne, David O’Shaughnessy, Paul Dillon, Patrick Mulvihill (1-0), Neil Rattigan (0-1), Conor Cosgrove (1-2, 0-2f), James Duignan (0-1)and Eoin Monaghan (1-2).

SUBS: Ciaran O’Neill (0-1) for E Monaghan (47 min); Seanie O’Donoghue for P Dillon (47 min); Johnny McGuire for N Rattigan (47 min); James Dolan (0-2) for C Cosgrove (inj, 50 min) and Anthony Larkin for R Fox (52 min).

ACFL Div 1: P 8; W 6; D 0; L 2; Pts 12

SENIOR CHAMPIONSHIP (SEMI-FINAL - 16/9/2012))

Garrycastle 4-10 Maryland 0-12

Two goals in the closing minutes sealed victory for Garrycastle in the county semi-final in Cusack Park last Sunday. The final winning margin gives a false picture of this game, however. When wind-assisted Maryland got to within a goal of Garrycastle half way through the second half they seemed to have the momentum to press on for victory but in the space of a few minutes two key incidents virtually decided the outcome. Sean Brennan made a superb save following sustained pressure by Maryland and when Eoin Monaghan scored a super goal just afterwards the pattern of the game had changed completely. Maryland, to their credit, kept battling and reduced the leeway to four points before the late goals from Eoin Monaghan and James Dolan gave Garrycastle a

flattering ten-point victory. The holders will know that a big improvement will be needed if they are to retain their title. The five week delay until the final gives time to work on several aspects of their game and, crucially, allows injured players a chance to attain full fitness.

PS. A minutes silence was observed before our senior match against Maryland in respect of our late President Jim McHugh.

GARRYCASTLE: Sean Brennan, Mark McCallon, John Gaffey, Gary McCallon, Robbie Fox, Enda Mulvihill, Doron Harte, Justin Barrett, Aidan Browne, Paul Dillon (0-3), Paddy Mulvihill (1-2), Eoin Monaghan (2-2), Conor Cosgrove (0-1), James Duignan (0-1), Dessie Dolan (0-1).

SUBS: James Dolan (1-0), David O’Shaughnessy, Alan Fox , Ciaran O’Neill.

ALL COUNTY LEAGUE (Division 1 - 28 August 2012)

GARRYCASTLE 2-15 CASTLEDALY 0-14

This re-arranged fixture was played before a good size attendance in Garrycastle last Tuesday evening. A draw or better for Castledaly would secure the Division 1 title, whereas only a win for the home side would keep their hopes of securing that title alive.

Playing with the aid of a stiff breeze, Castledaly made the better start and registered their first point with a close range free with just over 2 minutes elapsed. They converted another free, this time from distance, almost immediately to increase their lead. A pointed free from the boot of Conor Cosgrove in the 6th minute got Garrycastle off the mark. Castledaly had a point from play but Paul Dillon responded with a point from play for his side. Castledaly were securing most of the possession and this was reflected in 2 more points to leave them ahead by 3 points by the 13th minute. A further point from a free increased their lead but Garrycastle hit back in style with a goal in the 16th minute as a slick attack put James Duignan into position to raise the green flag. A pointed free from Conor Cosgrove levelled matters in the 20th minute. Castledaly took the initiative again and a pointed free was soon added to with one from play to put them 2 points ahead by the 27th minute. However, Garrycastle finished the half in fine style with a point from Paul Dillon and a second goal, this time from the boot of Eoin Monaghan who was put into space and he cooly planted the ball in the net. Referee Pat Fox's whistle signalled the end of the first half with the home side ahead on a scoreline of 2-4 to 0-8.

Now playing with the aid of the breeze, Garrycastle started the second period in determined fashion and points from Eoin Monaghan, Patrick Mulvihill and Conor Cosgrove, all of which came from play, increased their lead in the opening minutes. A point for Castledaly was replied to with points from Aidan Browne and Paul Dillon. James Duignan and Conor Cosgrove added to the Garrycastle total but Castledaly responded with 2 points, all from open play, to reduce the margin to 5 points by the 46th minute. Conor Cosgrove and substitute, Dessie Dolan, added to the Garrycastel score as the game entered the final 10 minutes. Castledaly fired over 2 quick fire points but Paul Dillon responded for the home side. Castledaly now needed to raise a green flag but they found the Garrycastle defence in no mood to allow that and the final score came to the home side in added time from James Duignan.

This was a good win for Garrycastel and keeps their league title hopes alive. There were good performances from Enda Mulvihill, Jack Donoghue and John Gaffey in defence. Aidan Browne had a fine game in midfield. In attack, the best performances were from Patrick Mulvihill, Eoin Monaghan, Conor Cosgrove, James Duignan and Paul Dillon.

GARRYCASTLE: Cathal Mullin, Alan Fox, Enda Mulvihill, Jack Donoghue, Doron Harte, John Gaffey, Robbie Fox, Aidan Browne (0-1), Justin Barrett, Eoin Monaghan (1-1), Patrick Mulvihill (0-1), Mark McCallon, Conor Cosgrove (0-5, 2f), James Duignan (1-2) and Paul Dillon (0-4).

SUBS: Gary Dolan for R Fox (half time); David O’Shaughnessy for D Harte, inj (42 min); Dessie Dolan (0-1) for E Monaghan (45 min); Gary Mullery for A Fox (48 min) and Ciaran O’Neill for C Cosgrove (55 min).

SENIOR CHAMPIONSHIP (11 August 2012)

GARRYCASTLE 0-12 BUNBROSNA 1-9

A pointed free by James Duignan in the final minute secured a draw for Garrycastle in Ballymore last Saturday. This point was enough to ensure Garrycastle topped their table and qualified directly for the semi-final. However, it is a game that Garrycastle will want to forget, and a dramatic improvement will be needed if they are to make further progress in the championship. From the outset Bunbrosna played with more determination and purpose and, apart from a ten minute spell in the third quarter when they scored four unanswered points, Garrycastle never played with any fluency.

GARRYCASTLE: Sean Brennan, Alan Fox, John Gaffey, Gary McCallon, Ciaran O’Neill, Enda Mulvihill, Justin Barrett, Aidan Browne, David O’Shaughnessy, Johnny McGuire, Doran Harte, James Duignan (0-4, frees), Conor Cosgrove (0-2, 1 free), Paddy Mulvihill (0-5), Paul Dillon (0-1).

SUBS: Gary Dolan for Dillon; James Dolan for O’Neill.

PS: Following the final round of games, Garrycastle and St. Loman's have claimed the first two semi-final spots. In the quarter-finals Maryland will play Castledaly with the winners facing Garrycastle, while Tyrrellspass will play Mullingar Shamrocks with the winners meeting St. Loman's. The dates, time and venues to be confirmed.

SFC (Section A): P 5; W 3; D 2; L 0; Pts 8

SENIOR FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP (3 August 2012)

GARRYCASTLE 3-13 KILLUCAN 0-8

Garrycastle seniors secured a place in the knock-out stages of the championship with a clear-cut win over Killucan in Moate’s Hogan Park last Friday. With much of South Westmeath subjected to heavy thunderstorms during the afternoon there were fears that this game mightn’t go ahead but amazingly Moate escaped the downpour and their pitch was in great condition. Garrycastle started brightly, reeling off four unanswered points from James Duignan, Paul Dillon, Ciaran O’Neill and a sweetly-struck “45” by Conor Cosgrove. Killucan eventually got off the mark with two points before Paul Dillon put Garrycastle three ahead with his second point. In the space of two minutes Garrycastle put themselves in a winning position with two quick goals. Firstly, Conor Cosgrove’s high kick from distance went all the way to the net as Paddy Mulvihill contested the ball with the full-back and goalkeeper. Within a minute Cosgrove was at the end of a slick passing move and found the net from close range. A pointed free by James Duignan gave Garrycastle a half time lead of 2-6 to 0-4.

A well-worked point by Paul Dillon stretched Garrycastle’s lead after the break. Killucan battled away and managed some good points but David O’Shaughnessy, Neill Rattigan and a Conor Cosgrove free maintained Garrycastle’s comfortable lead. Paddy Mulvihill pointed two frees and in between converted a penalty after Gary Dolan had been fouled in the square. As Garrycastle strove to improve their score difference Gary Dolan rattled the crossbar with a superb effort and Eoin Monaghan completed the scoring in the final minutes.

Garrycastle will be happy to have made the final stages despite having to field under-strength teams in all four games to date. Sean Brennan had another good outing in goals while John Gaffey and the McCallon brothers were excellent in defence. David O’Shaughnessy played solidly throughout in midfield while Paddy Mulvihill led the attack in style with strong support from Conor Cosgrove and Paul Dillon.

GARRYCASTLE: Sean Brennan, Alan Fox, John Gaffey, Gary McCallon, Mark McCallon, Enda Mulvihill, Justin Barrett, Ciaran O’Neill (0-1), David O’Shaughnessy (0-1), Neill Rattigan (0-1), Doran Harte, James Duignan (0-2, 1 free), Conor Cosgrove (2-2 , 1 free, 1 “45”), Paddy Mulvihill (1-2, pen, 2 frees), Paul Dillon (0-3).

SUBS: Eoin Monaghan (0-1) for Duignan; Gary Dolan for Dillon; Aidan Browne for O’Neill; Johnny McGuire for Rattigan and Robbie Shine for Harte.

ALL COUNTY LEAGUE (Division 1 - 30 July 2012))

GARRYCASTLE 2-13 TYRRELLSPASS 2-11

Garrycastle collected two more league points from this trip to Tyrrellspass last Monday. Both sides were short some regulars but the teams served up an entertaining game with the issue in doubt to the end. The first half saw both teams pick off some good points, with both Garrycastle midfielders David O’Shaughnessy and Aidan Browne on the mark early on. Further points from Conor Cosgrove (3), Paddy Mulvihill and Paul Dillon helped Garrycastle to lead by 0-7 to 0-6 at the break.

The third quarter saw Garrycastle extend their lead to three points, with Paddy Mulvihill showing great form in attack. The home side then scored a goal to level the game and when they took the lead soon after they seemed to have the momentum to push on for victory. A long-range free from Paddy Mulvihill then came back off the post and Gary Dolan crashed the rebound to the net. Garrycastle then went three points clear again but a second Tyrrellspass goal levelled the scores. Good work by Paddy Mulvihill set up Gary Dolan for his second goal which proved decisive, and a late Tyrrellspass point came too late to affect the outcome.

This was a decent performance from a much-changed Garrycastle team and the two points gives them an outside chance of winning the league title. The remaining championship games against Killucan and Bunbrosna will be the priority, however, as they try to book a place in the knock-out stages once again.

GARRYCASTLE: Sean Brennan, Mark McCallon, John Gaffey, Gary McCallon, Justin Barrett, Enda Mulvihill, Alan Fox, David O’Shaughnessy (0-1), Aidan Browne (0-1), Ciaran O’Neill, Doran Harte, Paddy Mulvihill (0-5), Conor Cosgrove (0-4), Paul Dillon (0-1), Johnny McGuire.

SUBS: James Dolan (for O’Neill), Gary Dolan (2-1) (for McGuire), John O’Shaughnessy (for E. Mulvihill), Robbie Shine (for J. Dolan) and Peadar Mulvihill (for Browne).

SENIOR FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP (22 July 2012)

GARRYCASTLE 2-9 CORALSTOWN/KINNEGAD 0-13

Garrycastle secured two more points with a narrow but deserved win in their third championship game in Cusack Park, Mullingar last Sunday evening against Coralstown/Kinnegad. Playing with many regulars, due to absence, injury and suspension, Garrycastle fielded a new look line-up.

Garrycastle got off to a flyer with a point from Conor Cosgrove within 20 seconds of the throw-in. Coralstown/Kinnegad responded with a point in the 3rd minute. A pointed free by James Duignan put his side ahead and two more points from Conor Cosgrove, the first from play and the second from a free, established a 3 point lead by the 11th minute. Coralstown/Kinnegad responded in style and a rune of three points in succession had them level by the 19th minute. Ciaran O’Neill had a good point from the right wing to put his side ahead again in the 26th minute. Soon afterwards Coralstown/Kinnegad mounted a dangerous attack and only a great save by Sean Brennan prevented them scoring a goal and taking the lead. His team-mates took heart from this let-off and tacked on 3 points from play, from substitute Eoin Monaghan, Neil Rattigan and Conor Cosgrove to lead by 0-8 to 0-4 at the break.

Coralstown/Kinnegad had the aid of the stiff breeze in the second period and reduced the margin to two points with two well taken points at the start of the half. However, they say goals win games and Garrycastle got their first when Neil Rattigan was on the end of a good build up to blast the ball to the net in the 36th minute. Coralstown/Kinnegad hot back with three points, all of which came from open play, to reduce the margin to just two points again. A second Garrycastle goal from Eoin Monaghan in the 45th minute seemed to put Garrycastle into a comfortable lead. Coralstown/Kinnegad responded well to that set-back and hit over a point. A point from Conor Cosgrove, who intercepted a short kick-out, was followed by points for Coralstown/Kinnegad from paced balls in the 56th and 58th minutes to leave just a goal between the sides. Another pointed free reduced the gap to 2 points as injury time beckoned. However, Garrycastle held on for a deserved win.

There were good performances from Sean Brennan in goal, who was rock solid as well as making an important save in the first half; as well as John Gaffey and Doron Harte in defence. Conor Cosgrove, Neil Rattigan and substitute, Eoin Monaghan, were most dangerous in attack.

GARRYCASTLE: Sean Brennan, Mark McCallon, Enda Mulvihill, Gary McCallon, Alan Fox, John Gaffey, Doron Harte, Ciaran O’Neill (0-1), Aidan Browne, Neil Rattigan (1-1), Patrick Mulvihill, Robbie Shine, Conor Cosgrove (0-5, 2f), Gary Dolan and James Duignan (0-1, f).

SUBS: Eoin Monaghan (1-1) for R Shine (24 min); David O’Shaughnessy for C O’Neill (35 min); Paul Dillon for P Mulvihill (inj, 43 min); Justin Barrett for G Dolan (50 min) and John O’Shaughnessy for J Duignan (59 min).

ALL COUNTY LEAGUE (Division 1 - 11 July 2012)

GARRYCASTLE 4-8 BUNBROSNA 0-11

Garrycastle collected two valuable league points from this home fixture last Wednesday. After some heavy showers in the afternoon playing conditions were difficult on a heavy pitch but the teams served up some entertaining football. Garrycastle were short several regulars while a number of players were playing their second game in 24 hours, so in the circumstances they did well to secure an important victory. The foundations for this success were laid in the opening half when playing against a stiff breeze. A brilliantly executed goal by Gary Dolan set the tone, and further goals by David O’Shaughnessy and Paddy Mulvihill, both resulting from incisive passing movements, helped Garrycastle to lead by 3-4 to 0-7 at half time. Despite playing into the wind Bunbrosna had good spells of pressure in the second half and scored some excellent points. However, they never really threatened to get the goal they needed and Garrycastle picked off enough points to maintain a comfortable lead. A second goal from Paddy Mulvihill late in the game finally settled the issue.

This was a good display by Garrycastle but there is still much work to be done before the vital championship games in the weeks to come. After some early uncertainty the defence coped reasonably well while David O’Shaughnessy and James Duignan shaded the midfield battle. The forwards combined well throughout and got some very good scores, with Paddy Mulvihill, Robbie Fox and Gary Dolan especially sharp.

GARRYCASTLE: Sean Brennan, Gary McCallon, Enda Mulvihill, Alan Fox, Justin Barrett, John O’Shaughnessy, Ciaran O’Neill, James Duignan (0-1, free), David O’Shaughnessy (1-0), Conor Cosgrove (0-2, frees), Paddy Mulvihill (2-3), Robbie Fox, Robbie Shine, Gary Dolan (1-1), Johnny McGuire.

SUBS: Peadar Mulvihill (for R. Fox), Alan Daly (0-1) for Shine, Matthew Guiheen (for McGuire), Conor Harrington (for Barrett) and Brian Carty (for Cosgrove).

ALL COUNTY LEAGUE (Division 1 - 22 June 2012)

TUBBERCLAIR 1-11 GARRYCASTLE 2-6

Garrycastle made the trip to Tubberclair last Friday evening but came away empty-handed. There was a strong breeze blowing straight down the pitch and Garrycastle faced into it in the first half.

Garrycastle had their first point in the 2nd minute as Neil Rattigan broke forward and hit a fine score. Tubberclair responded with a point from play and took the lead with a pointed free after just 7 minutes. Garrycastle were awarded a penalty when Johnny McGuire was fouled and Patrick Mulvihill raised the green flag with a well directed shot to the net in the 12th minute. Tubberclair responded well to this set back with a point but this was replied to by a point from Conor Cosgrove. A pointed free for the home side was soon followed by a goal as a slick move opened up the Garrycastle defence in the 22nd minute. Johnny McGuire had a point for Garrycastle but two converted frees in the final minutes of the half saw Tubberclair ahead by 1-6 to 1-3 at the break.

On the resumption Garrycastle had a point from James Duignan but Tubberclair registered yet another point from a free in reply. Patrick Mulvihill pointed from play after good approach play but a point from a free and one form play pushed the how side further ahead by the 44th minute. There was only a point between the sides a minute later when Patrick Mulvihill was released and goaled after taking the ball around the advancing Tubberclair goalkeeper. The match was level soon afterwards, when Conor Cosgrove pointed a close range free, with about 10 minutes remaining. Both sides had chances but fluffed them. However, Tubberclair grabbed a point in the 58th minute and had another a minute later to establish a two point lead as full time approached. Garrycastle pressed forward but a combination of poor shooting and resolute defence saw the home side emerge with the win on a scoreline of 1-11 to 2-6.

This was a poor performance from Garrycastle, who were missing their county and a number of other players. There were good performances from Enda Mulvihill, Ciaran O’Neill and substitute Gary Mullery in defence. The midfield was in and out of the game, while Patrick Mulvihill was the only forward to impress.

GARRYCASTLE: Sean Brennan, Conor Harrington, Enda Mulvihill, Gary McCallon, Alan Fox, Ciaran O’Neill, Anthony Larkin, Seanie O’Donoghue, Aidan Browne, Neil Rattigan (0-1), Patrick Mulvihill (2-1, 1-0 pen), James Duignan (0-1), Conor Cosgrove (0-2, 1f), Robbie Shine and Johnny McGuire (0-1).

SUBS: Gary Mullery for G McCallon (inj, 28 min) and Alan Daly for N Rattigan (46 min).

SENIOR FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP (17 May 2012)

GARRYCASTLE 2-13 CASTLEDALY 1-13

Garrycastle got a much needed win in their second championship game in sunny Mullingar last Sunday evening against the strong challenge put up by Castledaly.

Seanie O’Donoghue got his side off to a perfect start with a fine point in the 3rd minute. However, Garrycastle were rocked back when a slick Castledaly move resulted in the game’s first goal after 5 minutes. A fine point from Dessie Dolan narrowed the gap but this was relied to by a point from Castledaly in the 13th minute. Garrycastle began to take control in midfield and pointed frees from Conor Cosgrove in the 16th and 23rd minutes were scored either side of points from Dessie Dolan to put the champions up by two points. It got even better for Garrycastle in their next attack as a wonderful Ciaran O’Neill pass found Patrick Mulvihill and he crashed the ball to the back of the Castledaly net. Castledaly responded with a fine point but a good point from Ciaran O’Neill put Garrycastle further ahead after 29 minutes. Castledaly are renowned for their fighting qualities and responded in typical fashion with three unanswered points in the remaining minutes of the first half to leave just two points between the sides at the break.

A blistering start to the second half saw Castledaly hit over four points in a row and take a two point lead with just 5 minutes of the second half gone. Patrick Mulvihill responded with a point for Garrycastle but Castledaly has a point in reply. Points from Dessie Dolan, Ciaran O’Neill and James Duignan saw Garrycastel retake the lead by the 50th minute. But this did not last long and another point from Castledaly levelled matters with 9 minutes remaining. A blistering spell of scoring with points from Dessie Dolan and Adam Kennedy was completed with a goal from James Dolan to put Garrycastle into a five point lead with just 4 minutes left. Back came Castledaly with a point and as they pressed for a goal all their effort could yield was a pointed free in the 3rd minute of injury time. The final score 2-13 to 1-13 in Garrycastle’s favour.

This was a mixed performance from Garrycastle. At times they played fine football but were ponderous on other occasions. The defence were guilty of many lazy tackles and conceded too many frees. However, Enda Mulvihill and Doran Harte were as solid as ever. Ciaran O’Neill had a good game in midfield and capped his display with two well taken points. Dessie Dolan and Patrick Mulvihill were the pick of the forwards and the two substitutes, Alan Fox and Aidan Browne, played well when introduced.

GARRYCASTLE: Sean Brennan, Mark McCallon, Enda Mulvihill, Gary McCallon, Doron Harte, Adam Kennedy (0-1), James Dolan (1-0), Seanie O’Donoghue (0-1), Ciaran O’Neill (0-2), Neil Rattigan, Patrick Mulvihill (1-1), James Duignan (0-1), Conor Cosgrove (0-2, 2f), Robbie Shine and Dessie Dolan (0-5).

SUBS: Alan Fox for N Rattigan (36 min) and Aidan Browne for R Shine (45 min).

ALL COUNTY LEAGUE (Division 1 - 25 May 2012)

Garrycastle 3-11 Athlone 2-12

Garrycastle seniors secured another two league points from this fixture in Páirc Chiaráin last Friday evening. Playing against the wind Garrycastle got some early points from Dessie Dolan (2) and Seanie O’Donoghue but Athlone kept in touch until a well-worked goal from Gary Dolan put Garrycastle four points clear. A great point from wing back Ciarán O’Neill extended the lead but Athlone then had their best spell and took the lead approaching half time. Garrycastle responded with two points from James Dolan but the home team went in leading by 1-7 to 1-6 at the break.

Dessie Dolan equalised in the opening seconds of the second half before the game seemed to swing in Garrycastle’s favour when following the award of a Garrycastle penalty Athlone’s full back was red-carded. Paddy Mulvihill’s kick was saved, however, and Athlone drew inspiration from this let-off by going two points clear. A brilliant goal from James Dolan after great work by his cousin Dessie and Paddy Mulvihill put Garrycastle back in front. Points from Paddy Mulvihill and Gary McCallon extended the lead but Athlone’s superior fitness then became evident. They notched a goal and three points to go three points clear as full time approached and seemed set for victory. Garrycastle were struggling but refused to panic. Paddy Mulvihill reduced the leeway to two points and was then very much involved in the approach play which ended with Gary Dolan being fouled in the square when he seemed certain to score. Paddy Mulvihill kept his composure to convert the penalty and an injury time point from James Dolan put the seal on Garrycastle’s victory.

This was a patchy display by Garrycastle and a lack of sharpness was evident throughout. Nevertheless the players deserve credit for their willingness to keep plugging away to the finish to secure a victory that seemed improbable in the final quarter. The hunger for further glory seems to be still there and the return of some absent regulars will ensure keen competition for places.

GARRYCASTLE: Sean Brennan, Conor Harrington, Enda Mulvihill, Gary McCallon (0-1), Ciarán O’Neill (0-1), John Gaffey, Mark McCallon, Seanie O’Donoghue (0-1), Aidan Browne, Conor Cosgrove, Paddy Mulvihill (1-2, goal pen), James Duignan, James Dolan (1-3), Gary Dolan (1-0), Dessie Dolan (0-3, 1 free).

Sub: Robbie Shine for C. Cosgrove (injured).

ALL COUNTY FOOTBALL LEAGUE (Division 1 - 19 May 2012))

MARYLAND 1-12 GARRYCASTLE 1-9

The seniors suffered a defeat in the division one league against Maryland. Both teams were missing key players due to county duty and a very good game was played out in Garrycastle last Saturday. Garrycastle held a lead going into the last fifteen minutes but a spirited finish from a very fit Maryland helped them to a deserved victory by 3 points.

ACL DIVISION 1 (3 May 2012)

GARRYCASTLE 2-14 THE DOWNS 1-12

Garrycastle seniors collected two points from their first league game of the season in The Downs last Thursday. This fixture doubled up as a Feis Cup match so they have also progressed to the next stage of that competition. This was a well-contested game of open football and it was only in the closing stages that Garrycastle succeeded in putting some daylight between the teams. They had started well with points from Aidan Browne and James Duignan but the home team began to find gaps in Garrycastle’s defence and after 15 minutes they led by 1-4 to 0-3. Goals from Seanie O’Donoghue and Paddy Mulvihill helped Garrycastle to a half-time lead of 2-7 to 1-8.

Two quick points from Paddy Mulvihill after the break extended Garrycastle’s lead but a number of missed opportunities kept the issue in doubt for most of the half. The Downs are always a formidable opposition on their home turf and they battled to the end. However, Garrycastle seemed to be able to get scores when most needed and they ran out winners by five points. It was a patchy display by the Leinster champions but it’s always good to start the league on a winning note. Best performances on the evening came from Gary McCallon, Ciaran O’Neill, Seanie O’Donoghue, David O’Shaughnessy, James Dolan and Paddy Mulvihill.

TEAM: Stephen McGuire, John O’Shaughnessy, Enda Mulvihill, Gary McCallon, Ciaran O’Neill, John Gaffey (0-1), Anthony Larkin, Seanie O’Donoghue (1-0), David O’Shaughnessy, James Duignan (0-1), Paddy Mulvihill (1-5), Aidan Browne (0-2), Eoin Monaghan (0-1), James Dolan (0-2), Dessie Dolan (0-2, 1 free).

Sub: Sean Brennan (for Larkin).

SENIOR FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP (22 April 2012)

GARRYCASTLE 1-11 TYRRELLSPASS 3-5

Garrycastle senior side were given a guard of honour by their first round opponents, Tyrrellspass, as they entered the Cusack Park field to defend their Westmeath senior championship title. The champions started brightly and had a point on the board within a minute as Dessie Dolan converted a free he won himself. Paul Dillon then added a point from play and Aidan Brown had the third in the 3rd minute, again from play to put Garrycastle ahead by 0-3 to no score. However, Tyrrellspass began to secure possession and four unanswered points had them in the lead by the 13th minute. A pointed free by Dessie Dolan levelled the score in the 19th minute of play. An excellent point from Paul Dillon pushed Garrycastle ahead again soon after. The game’s first goal arrived in the 21st minute as Patrick Mulvihill was on the end of a good attack and shot to the net. However, Garrycastle were rocked back in the 27th minute as a dropping ball was fielded by the goalkeeper, but he was adjudged by the umpire to have brought the ball behind the line and a goal was signalled. It got worse for the champions in the final minutes, as Tyrrellspass were awarded a penalty and duly converted to score their second goal of the half. They were not finished there and tacked on a point from a free in the last minute of added time to leave Tyrrellspass ahead by 2-5 to 1-5 at the break.

A third Tyrrellspass goal was scored in the first minute of the second half as Stephen McGuire spilled a ball and it was dispatched to the net. So now down by 6 points, it was put right up to the champions. Dessie Dolan hit over a point from play and the Garrycastle cause was helped when Tyrrellspass were reduced to 14 players as one of their number was given a red card for a foul on James Dolan in the 34th minute. Patrick Mulvihill hit over a point and Dessie Dolan was again on target in the 41st minute. The same player converted a free and then substitute, Enda Mulvihill, fisted a point to reduce the gap to a single point with about 12 minutes remaining. Garrycastle were then delivered a blow as Dessie Dolan received a second yellow card from Referee, Barry Kelly, leaving it a 14 a side game. It was level on the score board a couple of minutes later as Gary Dolan hit over a fine point with some 9 minutes remaining. Both sides had opportunities to get the winning score, but the defences held firm and the final whistle saw the sides share the points on a scoreline of 1-11 to 3-5.

This was a patchy performance from Garrycastle, who played some good football but at times were guilty of over elaboration and misplaced passes. There were good performances from Doron Harte and James Dolan in defence. Dessie Dolan was again our most dangerous forward but he was well supported by Patrick Mulvihill and Gary Dolan.

GARRYCASTLE: Stephen McGuire, Mark McCallon, John Gaffey, John O’Shaughessy, Doron Harte, James Dolan, Alan Fox, Seanie O’Donoghue, David O’Shaughnessy, Paul Dillon (0-2), Patrick Mulvihill (1-1), Aidan Browne (0-1), James Duignan, Gary Dolan (0-1) and Dessie Dolan (0-5, 3f).

SUBS: Eoin Monaghan for P Dillon (37 min); Edna Mulvihill (0-1) for J O’Shaughnessy (47 min) and Justin Barrett for J Duignan (50 min).

Senior Squad which took part in the 2012 County Final vs. Mullingar Shamrocks on Sunday October 21st, in Cusack Park, Mullingar.

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