Corrigan puts Celtic clear at the Top

Michael Corrigan’s cool finish in the last minute of normal time may yet prove as important a goal as Boyle Celtic have scored for many seasons. With neither of their title rivals City Utd or Carbury, having a league fixture, Celtic had the chance to stretch their lead at the top of the Super League, to 5 points. The chasing pack have games in hand but they have to play each other twice and both have to come to Boyle. It was really vital that Boyle give them something to worry about. Young Michael Corrigan made sure that they will be looking upwards, for a few weeks at least.

This was always going to be a very tough game for Boyle Celtic. Historically, games against local rivals Aughanagh Celtic have always been tough, but this season, Aughanagh have been holding their own in the Super League and have played well in all their games. Boyle were welcoming back several players. Michael McHale and Killian Conboy were back from Australia. Brian McCrann was back after a 10 week lay-off through injury and right-back Alan Duffy was also back from a brief illness.

Celtic played well first half and created many openings but the finishing was shocking. O Donnohoe, McCrann, Flanagan, Calpin and Carty all guilty of wild shots when a bit of composure was required. The only straight shot from Boyle in the first half was a defensive clearance by John Connolly which struck manager Eddie Conroy full in the face from point blank range. “It would have killed a lesser man”, many seasoned campaigners were heard to remark. The mis-placed humour of seeing their manager almost be-headed was a welcome relief to the not so sharp-shooters in Boyle’s attack. However it did not soften his tongue at half-time for the mis-firing laughing boys!

The second half, saw Aughanagh apply some pressure to the Boyle goal and they were extremely dangerous from set-pieces. Brian Cregg was very unlucky when his thundering header came back off the bar and fell to Duffy, who cleared for a throw in. Aughanagh continued to press from corners without really testing Johnathon Conroy in the Celtic goal. The crisp passing of the first half had deserted Boyle and with 30 minutes left, Killian Conboy was introduced to add some much needed energy to Boyle’s play.Both sides had some half chances but seemingly, nothing was going to come of them. Colm Brennan continued his sparkling form and his level of consistency, suggests he might well be capable of going up a level. There can't be many better full-backs even in the League of Ireland.

With only 5 minutes remaining, Celtic gambled for all 3 points. Noel McKenna whose aerial prowess is crucial to Boyle’s defence was moved up front. The idea was, that McKenna’s strength might hold up the ball and create the chance that would steal the points. While that is exactly what happened, one should not underestimate the quality of the move. McKenna used his experience to encourage the left-back in close to him before flicking over his head, running in behind and drilling across the 6 yard box to Michael Corrigan. He finished with aplomb to the bottom right corner, giving Francis King in goal no chance.
A huge result for Boyle Celtic and maybe a crucial one in terms of their quest for the Super league title. They have 11 games to play but have every chance now. Next Sunday they’re away to Skyvalley Rovers in the Connacht Cup before a return to league action on Sunday 7th February.

Team: Johnathon Conroy, Colm Brennan, Alan Duffy, Noel McKenna, Paul Flanagan, Owen O Donohoe, Brian McCrann, James Carty, John Connolly, Aaron Calpin, Michael Corrigan. With: Martin Mullen, Johnny Dwyer, Karl Kelly, Killian Conboy, Michael McHale
Man of the Match: Colm Brennan (again! - Brennan has been consistently brilliant all season)
Referee: Paul Kilcoyne

Archive of 2009 postings

Welcome to our new Blog. The articles below are republished from http://www.realboyle.com/

7th December 2009
Boyle Celtic “Top” for Christmas!
Boyle Celtic came out on top of a hard fought victory against Cliffoney and secured top spot going into the winter break. The league wont resume until the end of January. Two goals were just enough to overcome Cliffoney who had opened the scoring against the run of play. A cool finish from the penalty spot by Owen O Donohoe and a neat finish by under 18 starlet Johnny Dwyer were the least Boyle deserved as they failed to finish off countless oppurtunities throughout.
Boyle started really well and created a couple of gilt edged chances. The first fell to James Carty after Lee McKillen opened up the defense and squared to him. However he pulled his shot wide. Celtic continued their good play and Owen O Donohoe lofted a ball to the back post for McKillen to bury but once again Boyle failed to finish a glorius chance. It was beginning to look like one of those days for Boyle. Cliffoney to their credit looked dangerous on any set play and Celtic were going to have to put away some of these chances. Half time 0-0
The second half began with exactly the same pattern of play, Boyle Celtic controlling the football and creating decent chances. As is common place in football though, the opposition took the lead against the run of play. Boyle cleared a corner but it fell to Brian Kinsella of Cliffoney who shot from distance through a crowd of players. Celtic keeper Thomas Conroy stood no chance as it flew past him.
Boyle Celtic have that battling spirit though and they were never going to throw in the towel. In less than a minute, they were level. Michael Corrigan burst through from right back and was unceromoniously tripped in the box. O Donohoe stepped up and stuck it in the left corner. 1 all. More chances followed for Boyle and they were duly squandered. The Celtic management team and loyal supporters must have been tearing their hair out. You dont always get what you deserve in football and with 3 minutes left on the clock it looked like a draw was inevitable.
If a draw was the script however, young Johnny Dwyer didn’t read it. Great play again from Celtic, with Corrigan, Flanagan and Conboy involved. They freed McKillen on the right and he drove the ball low and hard across the box. Johnny Dwyer did what his team-mates had failed to do all day and that’s put his foot through the ball and fire it home. The young winger was mobbed by his team-mates and their relief was obvious. It was great to see Dwyer get deserved reward for his work and attitude.
Team: Thomas Conroy, Michael Corrigan, Colm Brennan, Noel McKenna, Martin Mullen, Paul Flanagan, Owen O Donohoe, John Connolly, Johnny Dwyer, Lee McKillen, James Carty. With: Alan Duffy, Sean Duignan, Karl Kelly, Lochlainn Conboy, Michael McHale


Latest Boyle Celtic Draw Winners:

October Result:
200 – Martin Murphy, 100 – Chris Richardson, 50 – Paul & Mary Kelly, 50 – Neil Kennedy, 50 – John Mitchell, 50 – Brendan Duggan

November Result:
200 – Des McLoughlin, 100 – Stephen Bohan, 50 – Paul Keane, 50 – John McNama, 50 – Joe Simon, 50 – Gene O Hara

22nd November 2009
“Atrocious” but Celtic go 2nd in the league!
Boyle Celtic re-enforced their title challenge with a hard fought win over Coolera Rovers in Strandhill last Sunday. The weather was atrocious, so was the pitch and much of the football was too but to be fair to both sides, it was very difficult to play any kind of passing game on such a heavy pitch.
Coolera seemed to adjust to conditions quicker than Boyle and after dominating the first 10 minutes they took a deserved lead with a fine goal from the edge of the box. Boyle headed clear from a corner but did not close down the second ball quick enough. After going one down Celtic woke up and battled well. They started to create chances and always looked like getting back into the game. The goal when it did come was from an unlikely source. A fine shot from distance by centre-back Noel McKenna took a slight deflection and flew into the bottom corner. Half time 1-1.
Celtic were the stronger side in the second half and created a goal scoring oppurtunity for young Michael Corrigan, following great work by O Donohoe, McKillen & John Connolly. Connolly was the creator of a floated cross to the back post leaving young Corrigan with a tap in header from 2 feet. Against the run of play Coolera equalised. Again, failure to clear a dubious free kick gave Coolera a snap shot which deflected past the helpless Conroy in goal.
The last half hour was when Celtic showed their title credentials are serious. They bossed the game, scored 2 fine goals from O Donohoe and 18 year old James Carty. Carty was particularly influential when he came on as a substitute with half an hour remaining. However it was the hard work, experience and guile of Owen O Donohoe which turned the game in Boyle Celtics favour. He scored the crucial 3rd goal which deflated the Coolera lads. His workrate throughout proved too much for the Coolera midfield. He was abley assisted by young John Connolly in the engine room. Connolly played his best game for a while. No game next week as Sligo Rovers are in the FAI cup final. The following Sunday 29th November, it’s Yeats away in the Connacht cup.
Best for Boyle were McKenna and Mullen in defence, Connolly and O Donohoe in midfield and the tireless striking duo of McKillen and Calpin.

Team: Thomas Conroy, Alan Duffy, Noel McKenna, Martin Mullen, John Connolly, Colm Brennan, Michael Corrigan, Owen O Donohoe, Aaron Calpin, Lee McKillen, Paul Flanagan. Subs: Traiam, James Carty, Johnny Dwyer.

Man of the Match: Owen O Donohoe Referee: Paul Deering (Sligo)

21st OCT., 2009
Derby Delight for Celtic
Boyle Celtic got their title challenge back on track with a fortuitous win over local rivals Aughanagh. The Aughanagh lads will be very disappointed not to have got something from the game because in truth, they had as many, if not more good chances to score than Boyle. They lost their top scorer Paul Simon early in the game and he may well have finished some of the chances that were spurned.
The game began scrappily and it was a shot come cross from distance by Boyle’s midfielder Brian McCrann which sparked the game into life. Aughanagh keeper Francis King was back peddling to deal with McCranns high shot but misjudged the flight and bundled it into his own net. Rather than settle Boyle, the goal woke Aughanagh up and they pressed hard for an equalizer. A brilliant double save from Boyle keeper Thomas Conroy kept them out. However, minutes later Conroy almost undid all of his earlier good work. Instead of completing a bread and butter clearance, he tried to beat the Aughanagh forward who robbed him and was then pulled down by Conroy. Referee Paul Kilcoyne had no choice but to award a penalty. Unfazed by his mistake, Conroy dived right and pushed the spot kick wide.
1 nil to Boyle at half-time.
Boyle Celtic were better in the second half with O Donohoe controlling midfield and pushing Boyle forward. Boyle doubled the lead when a perfect knockdown from Lochlainn Conboy put Paul Flanagan through on goal and he made no mistake. 2 nil. John Connolly was replaced by Sean Purcell due to injury and his experience was well tested alongside the steady Noel McKenna as Aughanagh never gave up the fight. Conroy again had to produce some smart saves to maintain Boyle’s lead. In injury time a mix-up between Purcell and keeper Conroy allowed the ball to roll into the net but Boyle held on for an important win.
A couple of players played well for Boyle, notably McKenna at the back, O Donohoe in centre midfield and Paul Flanagan worked hard going forward. Man of the match has to go to Thomas Conroy who pulled off crucial saves at the right times from Boyle’s point of view. Aughanagh will regret their missed oppurtunities. No game this weekend but Sunday 1st November sees fellow table toppers Carbury of Sligo come to Boyle for what could prove a title decider.

Team: Thomas Conroy, Alan Duffy, Noel McKenna, John Connolly, Colm Brennan, Michael Corrigan, Owen O Donohoe, Brian McCrann, Lochlainn Conboy, Lee McKillen, Paul Flanagan. Subs: Karl Kelly, James Carty, Aaron Calpin, Johnny Dwyer, Martin Mullen, Sean Purcell.

Man of the Match: Thomas Conroy Referee: Paul Kilcoyne

14 OCT., 2009
Sunderland F.C. Soccer Camp
Don’t forget to book your place now on the soccer camp to be run by Sunderland F.C. Camp runs Monday 26th October to Saturday 31st. Get a taste of how the premiership stars train and play. Please download the form and send it to any of the named contact persons. They will cater for under 10s, right up to under 18. All are welcome but places are limited
Celtic Suffer First League Defeat
The eagerly awaited top of the table clash between Boyle Celtic and City United of Sligo did not disappoint the large crowd at Sean Fallon Park, Cranmore last Sunday. The biggest disappointment for Boyle will surely be that they arguably played their best football this season, created a host of chances but somehow conspired to lose the game. It was a thoroughly entertaining game and both teams along with referee Noel Foley deserve great credit for it.
Boyle started really well and got a deserved goal when Lochlainn Conboy pounced on a fumbled cross by City’s keeper and blasted home. Boyle’s influential midfielder Brian McCrann was withdrawn after 15 minutes due to a niggling injury. It was a long term gamble by the manager as with 15 league games remaining Boyle would not want McCrann missing for any lengthy period. Celtic continued to attack through their full backs with young Colm Brennan outstanding throughout. A host of chances followed but none were taken. It didn’t take a clairvoyant to know that Boyle might regret their failure to “close the deal”. Half time – 1 nil to Celtic
The second half started comfortably for Boyle until an innocuous cross was headed on by City and struck veteran Owen O'Donohoe on the hand. What his hand was doing in front of his face, no-one knows. Keith Nibbs made no mistake with the resulting penalty. Boyle continued to pass well and pressure the City goal but were sucker punched when Gareth Kelly finished at the back post when several Boyle defenders failed to clear their lines. The surrender of parity was coupled with the loss of striker Lee McKillen with severe cramp and for the first time in the game, Celtic looked in trouble. A mis-hit “shinner” from City’s John Conlon made it 3-1 and Boyle looked down and out.
They rallied well however and dominated the last 10 minutes without scoring. Paul Flanagan was excellent and looked the most likely scorer if a goal was to come for Boyle. On the final whistle, Celtic heads were down but it’s their first loss and they are very much in the title race. 3 points at home next Sunday when they play local rivals Aughanagh will get the ship back on course. Kick off is 11am.

Team: Johnathon Conroy, Alan Duffy, Noel McKenna, John Connolly, Colm Brennan, Michael Corrigan, Owen O Donohoe, Brian McCrann, Lochlainn Conboy, Lee McKillen, Paul Flanagan. Subs: Karl Kelly, James Carty, Aaron Calpin, Johnny Dwyer, Thomas Conroy, Chris Casey, Kyle Suffin.

Man of the Match: Colm Brennan Referee: Noel Foley

6 OCT., 2009
Back to Winning Ways
Boyle Celtic put the misery of last week’s Cup defeat behind them with a comprehensive victory over Arrow Harps. Their 4-1 victory has moved them to the top of the table after 6 games. 4 wins and 2 draws so far. Owen O’Donohoe opened the scoring after just 4 minutes and before Arrow Harps had time to draw breadth, Paul Flanagan had doubled Celtic’s lead. After 15 minutes, it was 3, another from Flanagan. When Lee McKillen made it 4 nil to Boyle after only 20 minutes it looked like becoming a total rout.
Arrow Harps battled on admirably though and it remained 4 nil until late on when Harps got a consolation goal. The only negative for Boyle was the loss of Sean Duignan through a recurring back problem when he had just returned from a long spell out injured. Hopefully he can get himself sorted.
Team: Chris Casey, Alan Duffy, Noel McKenna, Sean Purcell, Colm Brennan, Michael Corrigan, Owen O’Donohoe, Brian McCrann, Lochlainn Conboy, Paul Flanagan, Lee McKillen. With: James Carty, Martin Mullen, Karl Kelly, Thomas Conroy, John Connolly, Johnny Dwyer, Aaron Calpin, Sean Duignan.
Sunderland F.C. to run Halloween Soccer Camp
Roll up. Roll up! Book your place now on the soccer camp run by a professional team of coaches from Sunderland F.C. Train like the pros, play like the pros. Get a taste of how the premiership stars train and play. Please download the form and send it to any of the named contact persons. They will cater for under 10s, right up to under 18. All are welcome but places are limited

14 Sept 2009
Under 10 Registration
Under 10 registration will take place next Saturday before training at 10am. Registration fee is €25.
The Great Escape (Ballisodare v Boyle Celtic 13-09-09)
Boyle Celtic collected another 3 points away to Ballisodare and deserve great credit for a battling performance. The game was a poor, scrappy affair, helped undoubtedly by the “miniaturised pitch”, but Celtic did what was needed and took maximum points to move to 3rd place in the league and unbeaten after 4 games. [more...]
• Oh, by the way, someone we know has pals who entered a competition set up by Sony on football skills and the prize was a week in Cape Town. Apparently the other entries were very serious about skills etc but the boys for a laugh made this funny video and won. By the way the Bear is clever as that’s the logo/emblem for the World Cup in South Africa [more...]

7 Sept 2009
Celtic Record First Win of the Season
After two frustrating draws, Boyle Celtic finally posted 3 points with a comprehensive win over Strand Celtic. A major factor in this, was surely, the return of key striker Lee McKillen. McKillen helped himself to a brace and was heavily involved in the goals by the two youngsters, Brian McCrann and James Carty. Paul Flanagan and John Connolly were also excellent in the Boyle midfield.

Celtic started brightly and took the game to Strand with Connolly and McCrann pushing on from midfield at every oppurtunity. The early intensity of Boyles play was catching Strand on the hop. Some slick passing around midfield, encouraged strand to come out and press but they were punished to the maximum for their high line, when O’Donohoe played a slide rule pass into the path of Lee McKillen and he finished well past the helpless keeper. The same scenario created a second goal for Boyle as once again Strand pushed up to try and press Boyles passing. Brian McCrann picked his way through the high line and guided the ball into the bottom right corner. 2 nil up and coasting Boyle dropped the intensity a little and Strand put them under some pressure in the final five minutes before half time. Connolly and Purcell however were in no mood to concede and defended bravely to leave Boyle 2 up and in control at the interval.

The expected surge from Strand at the start of the second half did not materialize and rather it was Boyle who began the second period with confidence and zest. A beautiful turn from Carty allowed him to place the ball on McKillens toe and he rounded the keeper to slot home into an empty net. 3 nil and game over but Boyle wanted more. The excellent Connolly won a free kick in centre midfield which was taken by Sean Purcell. Purcell’s punt forward appeared to be too long and heading into the keepers arms but the wind moved it left, and the all action James Carty, who is not one to give anything up, as a lost cause, chased it down and deftly chipped over the head of the on-rushing Strand custodian. Just reward for a great all round performance by the eighteen year old.

Boyle made several changes at 4 nil including the front two of Carty and McKillen. Strand pressed inevitably but it was Boyles keeper Jonathon Conroy who gifted them a lucky break. Perhaps over confident with his teams superiority he tried to dribble passed two Strand forwards but lost control and Dean Deering slotted home for 4-1. The pressure continued from Strand but Boyle were holding them. Jonathon Conroy redeemed himself several times with excellent saves and takes under the high ball. Deep in stoppage time Donnagh Oates poked home after a goalmouth scramble but the result was never in doubt.

Team: Jonathon Conroy, Alan Duffy, Colm Brennan, Martin Mullen, Sean Purcell, Paul Flanagan, John Connolly (capt), Brian McCrann, Owen O’Donohoe, Lee McKillen, James Carty. With Johnny Dwyer, Noel McKenna, Thomas Conroy, Aaron Calpin, Michael Bermingham, Karl Kelly, Lochlainn Conboy

Man of the Match: James Carty Referee: Paul Kilcoyne


9 July 2009
Development
The new floodlights are now installed and once the electrical work inside is finished we should have the official “switch on”. SIS Ireland Ltd are also doing some cosmetic improvements to the new grass pitch so we should have a top class facility for the new season.
Draw Results for May & June
May winners were : €200 – Noel Kielty, €100 – Ernie Keenan, €50 – Gerard Cuffe, €50 – Pat Lyons, €50 – Chris Richardson, €50 – John Mulhern
June winners were : €200 – Donie O Connor, €100 – Katie Loftus, €50 – Gerry Nerney, €50 – Martin Downes, €50 – Bernard McGuire, €50 – Mary Ryan
New Manager
We are currently advertising for a new senior manager. Sean Kerins is stepping down after 3 excellent years at the helm. We haven’t been knocked down with applications just yet but if there is anyone out there who would like to take on the role of senior manager, the club can promise you every possible support. There is a vibrant, energetic and very skillful young team there that just need a strong mind and personality to point them in the right direction. YOUR TOWN NEEDS YOU!
7–a–Side
The annual 7-a-side “Ian Beirne Memorial Tournament” is fixed for the August Bank Holiday weekend. Any interested teams should contact Owen O Donohoe for details. 086 2209211 after 6pm.
FÁS
A brief mention in the club notes is necessary for the brilliant work carried out by our local FAS boys under the supervision of Gerard Tivnan. I’m not going to list all the names but would just like to thank each and every member of Gerards team down the years who have worked on schemes in Boyle Celtic. If people are visiting Boyle Celtic this summer, take 2 minutes to appreciate the stone walls, sheds, footpaths, car-park and auxillary areas that FAS have worked on. The cost of labour involved in these projects means they simply wouldn’t get done, were it not for FAS. This year they’ve finished the club room for us with wooden floor, mini-kitchen area and a lick of paint. We should be able to provide a cup of tea to the many supporters on Sunday morning now. Thanks Lads !!
FAI camp
There are still places available NOW for FAI/NIB Summer Soccer Schools 2009, 17th-21st Aug at Boyle Celtic. Book before May 15th, to win a chance of a training session with Ireland manager, Geovanni Trapattoni. There are full details online at the FAI website. (www.fai.ie)
• The National Irish Bank/FAI Summer Soccer Schools Programme is designed to deliver five football action packed days of fun, skills and games for boys and girls of all levels of ability. The schools are under the direction of the FAI Technical Director Packie Bonner and the programme is delivered by FAI Qualified Coaches.

28 April '09
Summer Soccer Schools
There are places available NOW for FAI/NIB Summer Soccer Schools 2009, 17th-21st Aug at Boyle Celtic. Book before May 15th to win a chance of a training session with Trapattoni. There are full details online at the FAI website [here...]
• The National Irish Bank/FAI Summer Soccer Schools Programme is designed to deliver five football action packed days of fun, skills and games for boys and girls of all levels of ability. The schools are under the direction of the FAI Technical Director Packie Bonner and the programme is delivered by FAI Qualified Coaches.
Connacht Cup Final May 2nd
Boyle Celtic under 14s play their Connacht Cup Final on Sunday 3rd May against Corofin of Galway. The game is fixed for 1pm at Shiven Rovers pitch. Directions to the pitch are here http://www.shivenrovers.com/gpage4.html
We would appeal to everyone, if you can at all, travel and support the boys, it would be hugely appreciated. The lads have been really impressive in their run to the final as we see from their results.

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

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

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

1. Brian Furey, Position: Goalkeeper
Fantastic shot stopper, covers his box well & keeps his backs on their toes.
2. Toby Burns, Position: Left Back
Cool on the ball who likes attacking from the back, very solid defender.
3. Ciarán Lavin, Position: Right Back
Second season with the club and has excelled. Loves to take on a player and has total confidence on the ball.
4. Jeff Gunning, Position: Centre Half
Jeff is an experienced defender who leads by example. Solid and dependable he is a no nonsense tackler.
5. Tadhg McKenna (C), Position: Centre Half
Carbon copy of his Dad, loves attacking up the middle of the pitch and as cool under pressure. Leads the team with his confidence on the ball. And all round footballer with a great future ahead.
6. Colin Goldrick, Position: Centre Midfield
Has excelled this season in the middle on the pitch. Calm on the ball and he has an eye for a killer pass.
7. Sean Farrell, Position: Centre Midfield
Skilful player who creates space for the team in the middle of the park, loves to take on a defender.
8. Dillon Edwards, Position: Right Side Midfield
The Ronaldo of the team with his silky skill and loves a good moan!!!!! Has the ability to be a top player and has a deadly finish in front of goal.
9. Michael Lavin, Position: Striker
Michael is a very strong centre-forward whose aerial prowess creates lots of chances for his team-mates and also gets him his own fair share of goals.
10. Enda Smith, Position: Striker
An out and out striker who has a lethal finish in front of goal. The former belvedere man is top scorer this season with 20 to his tally.
11. Gary O'Daly, Position: Left Side Midfield
Has excelled in his first season with the club. The Dirk Kuyt of the team, whose work rate is top class.
12. Jack Morris, Position: Right Back
Jack is a tenacious defender who is very hard for the opposition to break down.
13. Dillon East, Position: Midfield
“Djibril Cisse” of Boyle who has a different hair style every week and loves his flashy boats. Loves to take on defenders.
14. Joe Sweeney, Position: Right Back
Joe is a great young prospect who can play at either right-back or Centre half. Currently awaiting his break into the first eleven, he will be a star of the very near futur.
15. Owen Lavin, Position: Striker/ Midfield
One of the younger members of the team who has another year at this level, Owen isn’t afraid to put himself about and loves a good hard tackle.
16. Jason McDermott, Position: Centre Half
He is cool and collected and relishes any challenge which is put to him. Very defence minded player. Can also play in Goals
17. Conor Tivnan, Position: Left Midfield
Very skilful player who has another year at this level, will work hard for his team mates and has a great attitude
18. Michael Ledyon, Position: Striker
The fastest player around Boyle Celtic who can make a massive impact from the bench. Injury has limited his appearances this year.

MANAGERS: Kieran Spellman & Kevin Mullen


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

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

10th March '09
Under 14 Connacht Semi-Final
Boyle Celtic Under 14s play their Connacht Cup semi-final at home this Saturday. They meet Mayo kingpins Westport for a place in the final. Kick off is 2pm in Celtic Park. Admission is free and all support would be warmly welcomed by theyoung players.
Seniors
No senior game last Sunday with Manor Rangers pitch unplayable but this Sunday Sean Kerins side travel to title rivals Carbury for a crunch game which will have a huge bearing on the Super League crown.
Youth Draw
The new season for the clubs youth draw begins at the end of March. Subscription is €10 per month by direct debit or annual payment of €120. Please contact any of the commitee if you would like to join.
3rd March '09

Your Club Needs You!!
Boyle Celtic are collecting the SuperValu "Kids In Action" tokens for free Sports Equipment. Anyone who is not collecting them might pass their tokens to a member of the committee or Sandra McCrann in David O'Connor’s Office on Elphin St. Many thanks for your help.
Boyle Celtic 2 Calry 1 – A Game of Blind Man’s Bluff
A crucial win for Boyle last Sunday in their push for this years Super League title. They now sit in 3rd with 2 games in hand which can move them to within 2 points of leaders Strand Celtic. When they play Strand in a couple of weeks, it could be the title decider. Sean Kerins is working hard with his young charges to get there.
Boyle started the better with strong tackling and plenty of energy from the new central pairing of Conboy and O Donohoe. An early booking for the ever late Conboy did not deter his enthusiasm. He was late out of bed, late for the match and late in his first 4 tackles. Little wonder then that the official, Mr. Deering produced the “carte jaune”.
As the game settled down, Celtic dominated with slick passing from back to front, producing early chances for Corrigan, O’Donoghue and Maughan, at least two of which, should have been taken. O’Donohoe’s well touted colour blindness, seemingly replaced by a form of total, when in front of the goals.
The breakthrough came when Owen O’Donoghue swept in a cross from the right at the second attempt, after taking a fresh air swipe with the first attempt!! Another St.Paul on the road to Damascus moment. (Sean Kerins would do well to get specsavers to take a look at him). Unfazed by the comedy, Mick Corrigan guided a fabulous volley past the stranded keeper for the lead. Very well deserved for the hard working Corrigan.
More chances followed before the break but Boyle were not able to convert. A certain wag on the sideline began to hum “3 blind mice” to the players. The back four for Celtic had one of their easier days with Mullen and McKenna lording everything in the air and John Connolly pulling the strings at the back with some fine passing.
The second goal came 15 minutes after the break with the Duracell-powered Colm Brennan, raiding down the right, crossing for Mick Corrigan to double both his and Celtic’s tally for the day. It was a very impressive morning’s work from the two young wingers who constantly asked questions of the Calry back four.
The game ended as a contest after the second goal and once Rory O’Donohue replaced his brother Owen (aka Stevie Wonder) after the hour there was no way back for Calry. There was one more piece of action as the referee Mr.Deering awarded a penalty to Calry. It was effectively the last kick of the game. Speechless was the general reaction of both teams. MacHale ajudged to have to have "pushed" the Calry player while trying to tackle him. He must have pushed him with his toe! Only Mr. Deering and probably Owen saw it. There must have been a full moon. Calry scored and the ref blew the full time whistle. Thankfully this poor decision did not affect the outcome.
Team was: Darragh Loftus, John Connolly, Mick Mac Hale (C) Martin Mullen, Noel Mc Kenna, Owen O'Donohoe, Lochlainn Conboy, Mick Corrigan, Lee McKillen, Raymie Maughan, Colm Brennan

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

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

16th February '09
Shocking News from Celtic Park:
What’s this I hear you say. Match goes ahead! Surely not!
Yes it’s true. After a break from the wind, rain, sleet and snow last week, Boyle Celtic finally got to play a match on Sunday last. They played local rivals Arrow Harps down at the cauldron that is Celtic Park and after 10 weeks of frustration and built up adrenalin, Sean Kerins released his young charges onto the field. They showed an exuberance and zest normally associated with bull calves, turned out in the field for the first time. Thankfully they didn’t eat the grass but did use it as a green canvas, to paint a footballing masterpeice with young John Maughan the Van Gogh of the day, slamming home the only goal. It was a goal however, worthy of the entrance fee alone. (which is free before anyone asks)
Celtic started brightly and took the game to a very strong and well organised Harps side. Marshalled suberbly at the back by Johnny Kenny, Arrow Harps were always going to be tough to break down. The breakthrough came on 30 mins when a quick free-kick by McHale put John Maughan running towards goal with the ball at his feet. There is only one outcome from this scenario. GOAL. One nil to Celtic. While Boyle passed well and pressed hard for a second, they could not breakdown a stalwart harps defence led by the excellent Kenny.
During the press conference afterwards, Celtic manager Sean Kerins said that he was happy with the performance, considering the long lay-off without a game and he hoped his side will be much sharper next week in the cup against Castlerea. That game kicks off at 2pm in Castlerea. Best for Boyle on the day were the Maughan brothers, Michael McHale, Colm Brennan, John Connolly and Michael Corrigan. Man of the Match though was Noel McKenna who made it look easy for the 90 minutes. He dominated in the air, was very assured on the floor and provided a solid base for Celtic to build their passing game.
Under 10 Training Change
Due to the huge numbers attending under 10 training, we have had to split up into 2 groups. Training for all of the 3rd class kids will now be every Saturday from 9.30am to 10.30am. The second group, all 4th class children will be training from 10.30am to 11.30am. We desperately need some of the parents to stick around for the hour to help with supervision. For insurance reasons we must have the appropriate ratio of adults to children so if the parents don’t get involved we will have to consider cancelling.

28th January '09
Weather causing problems
The weather continues to cause problems for all soccer fixtures with yet another game (away to Real Tubber), called off last week. This week Celtic have Castlerea in the Connacht Cup. Let’s hope this game can survive the wet weather.....

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Chinese Dog

The last story in our trilogy remembering the great Ian Beirne is tinged with great sadness as it reminds us of his untimely death. A few weeks before Ian passed away he arrived home from town after a few drinks. Ian had bought himself a chinese takeaway and carried it up home to enjoy it. He was famished and realised that if he brought the food through to the kitchen he would have to offer everyone a taste. Ian though was very clever and hatched a plan in the blink of an eye. He would leave the chinese on the stairs as he went in the front door. He’d go through to the kitchen, have a quick word with his Mam and Dad, pretend he was really tired and then head up to bed accompanied by his feast.

The plan had one flaw! Max the dog was not in on it. As Ian entered the kitchen and aknowledged everyone he failed to notice Max exiting under the radar. Thinking he had everything under control, Ian sat in beside his Mam and chatted away. The news was on and he asked Mark a few questions about it. “I’m really tired” he said “I think I’ll hit the sack.”

Ian went out into the hall and suddenly the earth shook with the roars from Ian. Mark reckons it was like a bomb going off. They thought they’d have to get the house blessed, such was the language being hurled at poor Max. A few short weeks later, Saturday 17th July 2004 to be exact, the Beirnes got a chinese takeaway again, this time together. For whatever reason, it wasn’t nice, and all including Ian gave the food, this time without a problem to Max the dog.

Ian went off to bed as normal but the next morning Sunday 18th, we all lost a dear friend. He is sadly missed by all who knew him. For all those who will play in our annual IAN BEIRNE TOURNAMENT and spectators, please remember that Ian Beirne was someone who brought a smile to the faces of all those he came into contact with. Enjoy the football because that is what Ian would want......

Hot Pot Ian

Mark Beirne tells this story as well as it is possible to tell. I will try to relay it as best I can. The central character is once again, Ian Beirne, one of Boyle Celtic’s finest. We go back to when Ian was in his early twenties. He had started work and was away from home a fair bit. Everybody worked hard in the eighties (I’m told) and money was worth something. People in Boyle were proud of their homes and always wanted to do little improvements whenever they could. Doris and Mark decided that they wanted to do up their kitchen. The decision was made that they would get “lino”.

Lino was expensive in those days and it was quite an investment for any family to undertake. For those younger than me who might not understand what lino is here’s the wikipedia link. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Linoleum All the measurements were taken. The favoured design was chosen from the extensive range in Taylors. Mark and Doris saved up for many weeks and finally the weekend came for the installation to take place. Work started early on the Saturday morning. Ian was away working but was expected back that night. It would a nice surprise for him to see the kitchen all done. Everybody chipped in. All of the furniture had to be moved out first. The lino was rolled out, measured up, cut and fitted. The workers stood back and admired their work. Next they put everything back in its place.

Doris prepared a stew and put the pot up on the range. The workers were looking forward to a nice dinner in the newly floored kitchen. Mark then invited all the family and helpers to join himself and Doris for a few drinks to celebrate their succesful new investment and reward them all for their help. In a couple of hours they would all return and tuck into a lovely plate of stew. As they pulled the door behind them, they took another look at the job and everything was good in the world.

Ian arrived into Boyle on the bus. He had 2 buses to get in order to get home. I believe the change was in Athlone. He was famished by the time he got to Termon. As he pushed the front door open the scent that hit his nostrils, excited him like a hound at the head of a hunt. He made a bee line for the kitchen, took the lid off the pot and his eyes lit up. He wanted to get a plate but his rumbling stomach demanded that he eat immediately. A large spoon was left beside the pot. He took a large mouthful and it was a gorgeous stew. The range was hot though and it was akward to reach across the pot. Whoever had left the strategically placed spoon had kindly left a tea-towel also. “I’ll lift it down on the floor”, thought Ian Aristotle, and down he took it. “Oh yes, that’s much better”, he thought as he fired mouthfuls of stew into him. He ate away happily for a good ten minutes. “I see Mam done the floor” he said to himself. “Very nice”, he noted.

Having filled his belly, Ian lifted the pot back up on the range and replaced the spoon and tea-towel where he had found them. He replaced the lid and you’d hardly know he’d been there at all. He turned to go to his room, but as he turned, his eyes fell on an apocalyptic total eclipse sitting in the middle of the kitchen floor. A perfect circle but as black as the hob of hell. His blood ran cold. The lovely stew now felt like he’d eaten a bucket of sawdust. The gravity of his situation dawned on him. It was best to flee. Doris would not be happy and he’d better not be in the locality when she got home. Ian stayed out of Doris’ way for days!

The Yanks

February 2004 saw Boyle Celtic Seniors, their manager at the time Eddie Conroy (me) and his football mad assistant Ian Beirne travel to Maymount FC in Cork, to contest the quarter-final of the FAI Junior Cup. This was a very impressive run in this prestegious cup for a small club like Boyle. The whole group was togged out in matching Boyle Celtic track-suits which had been generously sponsored by Mary Cretaro and the Little Chick. Ian remarked that we looked like a “real football team”.

We went to Cork on Saturday morning and checked into the Rochestown Lodge hotel, a 4 star facility, far above what most of us were used to. Ian however worked in the hotel trade, so he took it all in his stride, explaining to our players what was available and how to get it. Unconfirmed reports say he had to give the Dunzeys a leg up to put the card in the room door. The team and officials had a private dinner and once everyone had eaten, the manager asked that all players would stay around the hotel, obviously not drink alcohol and have an early night. Ian was entrusted with the job of bouncer. Anyone who broke curfew would receive a very public shaming if Ian caught him.

Everyone moved out to the large, seated lounge/bar in the hotel. There was a big crowd there, a good mix of locals and tourists. Everyone was interested to know who this team were, all dressed the same, and what were they playing in. We could hear the inquisitive whispering all around the bar. Ian was bursting at this stage with pride and information. He could talk Boyle Celtic for a week long and all he needed now was a victim. He just needed someone to ask him who we were and they were going to get a two hour rundown on all things Boyle Celtic. Enter “The Yanks”.

The Irish were too reserved to ask but a tall, burly, not skinny, American guy, accompanied by his wife of similar police description, called out to Ian, “Hey buddy, what are you guys”? I thought Ian would pass out he was talking so fast. He gave that yank more information about Boyle and Boyle Celtic than Bord Failte could in 20 years. Realising that the American might struggle with our accent, Ian put on his best twang and didn’t use any swear words at all. He was the perfect ambassador for club and country. Ian told them that Darragh Loftus in goal was 8 foot tall and could catch a ball with his baby finger. Darren Suffin could jump 17 foot and head a ball half a mile. Carlo Cretaro was so quick his boots melted. Niall O Donohoe was so good, Man United would be looking for him after tomorrows game. The yanks lapped it up and being american they had to keep asking questions. Being Ian, he kept talking. I’ve never heard him speak so posh and with such authority. The yanks were very impressed with his calm manner and friendliness. Kieran Spellman and Sean Kerins, not being under curfew went to the disco in town. Ian didn’t even see them go. Some bouncer! When they returned from town, Ian had gotten to the offside rule. Finally we all got to bed.

Next morning, breakfast at 8am. Kick off was 11am so we were going to leave for the ground at 9.30. 9 o clock came and there was no sign of the ambassador for football. Eddie rang his room and eventually got him up. Of course he had to have his breakfast, and Rorys! We got going and as most people know we lost on penalties. The ref didn’t do us any favours and Ian was fuming. He never said a word to me on the way to collect his stuff at the hotel, I knew he was in foul humour. When Ian was in a bad mood it was best not to cross him.

Who should come bouncing up to us however as we checked out only the pair of yanks. “Hey buddy, howd yaw’ll do today in the soccer football? The reply from the eloquent, softly spoken, after dinner speaking, Boyle Celtic ambassador of football, hit the yank with both barrells......

“F**k football, f**k Cork and f**k that bloody ref...”

The Ian Beirne Connection

"The "Hall of fame" entry on www.boyleceltic.com goes someway in showing the swell of affection and fond memories that everyone who met Ian Beirne feels. Ian was die-hard Boyle Celtic. No weather, sickness, injury or ailment could keep Ian from football. He kicked every ball with the players and we all miss his enthusiasm from the sideline every Sunday. You were never down when Ian was around.Boyle Celtic’s committee of which Ian was a hardworking member, wanted to do something within the club that would keep his memory alive in the minds of Boyle Celtic people and indeed everyone in Boyle. We decided that an annual tournament in his honour would be just what he’d have loved. Young pretenders, former greats (chancers), current stars and of course "the outsiders" all pitting their wits against each other in a feast of football. We hope that the Ian Beirne memorial shield will be held in the highest regard by all future winners and indeed participants. It is there to serve as a tribute to a Boyle man who gave his every minute to local sport and never asked for recognition or reward. Time is the most valuable commodity in modern Ireland and when you’ve met someone like Ian Beirne who was willing to give all of his to young people in Boyle Celtic, then remember you were in the presence of a Real Legend.”