Match Reports

Senior Championship 18/06/2011

2011-06-19T16:08:00.002+01:00

Strokestown 0-15, Clann na Gael 0-11. Venue: Kiltoom

Town recorded there first win in the championship with a deserved 4 point win over Clann na Gael. Town turned the game around with a fantastic second half performance and book their place in the play-off to qualify for the quarter finals.

Things didn't seem to work out for the 'Town in the first half but crucially we were able to keep the scoreboard ticking over and only went in at half time trailing by 2 points, 8-6. Scores in the first half came from Ruaidhrí Molloy, David Parker, Conor Silke and John Rogers.

Town took over in the second half and finished much stronger than Clann turning the game around and opening up a 5 point lead before Clann fired the final point of the game. scorers in the second half were Conor Silke, John Rogers, Ruaidhrí Molloy and Daniel Rogers.

Town now play the loser of Western Gaels V St Faithleach's in the play-off.

Team: John McHugh, Johnny Dolan, Ronan Owens, Damien Caslin, Philip Duignan, Daniel Rogers, Niall Brogan, Seamus Collins, Mattie Collum, Enda Molloy, John Rogers, Ruaidhrí Molloy, David Parker, Thomas Shanagher, Conor Silke.

Subs: Kenny Bosquette for Thomas Shanagher, Ciaran Reilly for Johnny Dolan.

Senior League/O'Rourke Cup 05/06/2011

2011-06-09T14:20:00.002+01:00

Strokestown 3-9, St Brigid's 1-8. Venue: Kiltoom

The senior team continued their impressive league form with a convincing win away to county champions St Brigid's. 'Town were very much the superior team throughout having gained dominance in mid-field through Seamie Collins and Matty Collum. 'Town rubber stamped their dominance in the first half with goals coming from Ruaidhrí Molloy and a Dermot Lohan screamer (a St Brigid's defender kicked it off Dermot as he was on the ground and it just crossed the line). Town led at half-time by 2-6 to 0-3. St Brigid's did mount somewhat of a comeback but Town were always able to pick off a score when it was needed to keep the gap between the teams and the game was sealed in the dying moments when Paddy Brogan latched onto a through ball and finished well into the bottom corner.

This win keeps the Town at the top of the league table with 4 games left to play.

Team: John McHugh, Johnny Dolan, Ronan Owens, Damien Caslin, Philip Duignan, Daniel Rogers, Niall Brogan, Seamus Collins, Matty Collum, Dermot Lohan, Paddy Brogan, Ruaidhrí Molloy, Colin Compton, Thomas Shanagher, Conor Silke.

Subs: David Parker for D. Lohan, Ciaran Reilly for R. Owens, Daniel Kennedy for T. Shanagher, Niall Curley for J. McHugh

Senior League/O'Rourke Cup 29/05/2011

2011-05-29T17:13:00.002+01:00

Strokestown 0-17, Kilmore 0-10. Venue: Kilmore

Town kept up their good form in the league with a deserved victory over neighbours Kilmore in Kilmore. Town started the brighter registering 4 points before the home side got on the board. During the first half Kilmore were reduced to 14 men and Town punished them further hitting 11 points in the first half and leading by 7 points at the interval. The second half started slowly for Town with Kilmore coming out of the blocks and tagging on a couple of scores. But they were never able to get the score to a one score game as Town were able to tag on the scores when they needed them. This win leaves Town topping the table with 10 points and a very good scoring difference.

Team: John McHugh, Damien Caslin, Johnny Dolan, John Hagan, Philip Duignan, Daniel Rogers, Niall Brogan, Matty Collum, Seamus Collins, Enda Molloy, Paddy Brogan, Ruaidhrí Molloy, Colin Compton, Thomas Shanagher, Conor Silke.

Subs: Thomas Hughes for J. Hagan, John Dolan for P. Duignan, David Parker for T.Shanagher, Ciaran Reilly for S. Collins

senior Championship 21/05/2011

2011-05-22T11:56:00.003+01:00

Strokestown 0-15, Castlerea 2-9. Venue: Strokestown

A controversial last minute penalty secured a draw for Castlerea in the first championship game for the 'Town in the our new home. After a poor first half performance 'Town went in trailing by 4 points, 1-5 to 6. But 'Town emerged for the second half a completely different team. The boys went gung ho and took the game to Castlerea upping the intensity 100%. 'Town began to play some wonderful football and got fantastic scores from John Rogers and Matty Colum. A draw in the other group game between Clann na Gael and Kilbride leaves qualification from the group in the 'Towns own hands when they meet Clann at the end of June in a winner takes all game.

Team: John McHugh, Johnny Dolan, Emmet Collins, Donal Molloy, Niall Brogan, Daniel Rogers, John Hagan, Matty Colum, Seamus Collins, Enda Molloy, Paddy Brogan, Ruaidhrí Molloy, John Rogers, Colin Compton, Conor Silke.

Subs: Thomas Shanagher, Philip Duignan

O'Rourke Cup, 08/05/2011

2011-05-11T12:38:00.002+01:00

Strokestown 2-12, Clann na Gael 1-4. Venue: Strokestown

The 'Town continued their winning ways in the league of late with a comprehensive win over Clann na Gael. Town won this game in the first half when they scored 1-4 to Clann's 0-3 whilst playing into a gale force wind. The black and amber showed great work ethic against the wind and dominated in every position especially Seamie Collins who dominated around the middle of the field. Conor Silke got the goal in the first half with a neat finish. Town could even possibly have raised the green flag on a number of other occasions, hitting the post and the crossbar.
In the second half the team didn't let up and kept tagging on more scores through, John Rogers, Enda Molloy, Conor Silke, Colin Compton and Ruaidhrí Molloy who netted the second goal. This was a great team performance from the boys and hopefully they can carry their good form into the championship.

Team: John McHugh, Ian Rogers, Niall Brogan, Damian Caslin, Doanl Molloy, Paddy Brogan, Daniel Rogers, Seamus Collins, Matty Colum, John Rogers, Emmet Collins, Ruaidhrí Molloy, Enda Molloy, Thomas Shanagher, Conor Silke. Subs: Colin Compton, John Hagan, Dermot Lohan, Ronan Owens, Johnny Dolan.

Good Friday for the 'Town

2011-04-22T21:09:00.003+01:00

O'Rourke Cup, 22/04/2011. Strokestown 0-16, Kilbride 0-7. Venue: Strokestown (new field)

The senior team made it 3 wins a row in the senior league with a great win over neighbours Kilbride on the first game in the new facilities. Town played some lovely football using the wide open spaces on the new field to carve open Kilbride at times. Town hit 10 points in the first half with Conor Silke, Seamie Collins and Enda and Donal Molloy all on target. Town kept it going in the second half with scores coming from Emmet Collins, Niall Brogan and Kenny Bosquette. Best for the 'Town on the day were the two Brogans, seamie Collins and Matty Colum who bossed mid-field and Conor Silke, Enda Molloy and Ruaidhrí Molloy who linked up brilliantly in the forward line. Hopefully this win will start our new field becoming a fortress for the 'Town. Credit must go to the committee as the the club is going to have wonderful facilities when all is complete.

Team: John McHugh, Ian Rogers, Niall Brogan, Damien Caslin, Donal Molloy, Paddy Brogan, Daniel Rogers, Seamie Collins, Matty Colum, John Hagan, Kenny Bosquette, Ruaidhrí Molloy, Enda Molloy, Thomas Shanagher, Conor Silke.

Subs used: Colin Compton, Philip Duignan, Emmet Collins, Johnny Dolan, Dermot Lohan

O'Rourke Cup 17/04/2011

2011-04-17T17:15:00.002+01:00

Strokestown 1-12, Padraig Pearses 2-7 (venue: Woodmount)

Town picked up another 2 points in the senior league with a great win away in Padraig Pearses. Played in great conditions it was a great game of football between two committed teams. Truthfully 'town could have won by more but a number of shots dropped into the keepers hands or went wide. Pearses went in at the break leading thanks to a number of frees but the 'town defence restricted them to just two scores in the second half. Enda Molloy grabbed the crucial goal which put the 'town ahead with 8 minutes to play and they never looked like giving up the lead in the closing minutes playing some superb keep ball.

Best for the 'town on the day were full back Niall Brogan, centre back Paddy Brogan and full forward Thomas Shanagher.

Team: John McHugh, Ian Rogers, Niall Brogan, Damian Caslin, Donal Molloy, Paddy Brogan, Daniel Rogers, Matty Colum, Seamus Collins, Ruaidhrí Molloy, Kenny Bosquette, John Rogers, Enda Molloy, Thomas Shanagher, Conor Silke.

Subs: John Hagan for Damian Caslin, Philip Duignan for Seamus Collins, Ronan Owens for Thomas Shanagher.

Tansey Cup 09/04/2011

2011-04-10T17:40:00.002+01:00

Strokestown 0-17, Creggs 1-06 (Venue: Strokestown)

The Junior team got back to winning ways after a comfortable win over Creggs. The 'Town played a very good game of football, keeping the ball moving and not letting the physically stronger Creggs team turn the game into a dog-fight. Pearse McGinley and Thomas Shanagher worked well in the full forward line and contributed the majority of the score's. Other scorers included Cormac Dolan, John Hagan, Niall Brogan, Chris Lannon and Donal Molloy. The 'Town didn't leave the field without any casualties unfortunately as wing back Damian Shaughnessy suffered a bad facial injury after an accidental collision of heads with John Dolan.

Team: Niall Curley, Ian Rogers, Johnny Dolan, John Dolan, Donal Molloy, Emmet Collins, Damian Shaughnessy, Philip Duignan, Thomas Hughes, John Hagan, Niall Brogan, Damian Caslin, Cormac Dolan, Thomas Shanagher, Pearse McGinley. Subs: Chris Perrin, David Kelly, Chris Lannon, Thomas Hanley, Daniel Kennedy.

Tansey Cup 03/04/2011

2011-04-04T09:39:00.002+01:00

Strokestown 1-4, Boyle 0-11 (Venue: Boyle) The Junior team suffered defeat in Boyle in the third round of the Tansey Cup. Their was just the minimum between the teams with 10 minutes to play but Kenny Bosquette's sending off saw the Town lose the momentum which they had been gaining at the time. Team: Niall Curley, Ian Rogers, Johnny Dolan, John Dolan, Donal Molloy, Emmet Collins, Damian Shaughnessy, Philip Duignan, Kenny Bosquette, John Hagan, Niall Brogan, Damian Caslin, Dermot Lohan, Kevin Hughes, David Kelly. Sub: Pearse McGinley

O'Rourke Cup 26/03/2011

2011-03-28T10:04:00.002+01:00

Strokestown 1-12, Elphin 2-7. (venue: Strokestown) The 'Town picked up their first two points in the league with a good win over neighbours Elphin. Both teams were understrength but it was the greater hunger from the black and amber which won out in the end. Town led by 5 points at one stage during the second half thanks to some great forward play and a goal by the 'Duck'. But Elphin managed to pull back the defecit and the game was all square with 5 minutes to play. But it was in this period where the 'town showed the greater composure and hunger and found the scores that got them off the mark in the league for 2011. Team: John McHugh, Ian Rogers, Niall Brogan, Damian Caslin, Donal Molloy, Daniel Rogers, Philip Duignan, Seamus Collins, Matty Colum, Thomas Hughes, Kenny Bosquette, Ruaidhrí Molloy, Enda Molloy, Thomas Shanagher, Conor Silke. Subs: Emmet Collins, Cormac Dolan, John Dolan, Dermot Lohan, Damian Shaughnessy.

Tansey Cup 12/03/11

2011-03-15T10:44:00.003Z

Strokestown 1-9, Clann na Gael 2-10 (venue: Johnstown)

Team: Niall Curley, John Dolan, Johnny Dolan, Ian Rogers, Damian Shaughnessy, John Hagan, Donal Molloy, Ciaran Reilly, Philip Duignan, Damian Caslin, Niall Brogan, Cormac Dolan, David Kelly, Thomas Shanagher, Kenny Bosquette.
Subs: Daniel Kennedy, Kevin Finn, Chris Perrin.

Strokestown suffered defeat away to Clann in the second game of the Tansey Cup. Two controversial goals from the home side prooved the difference between the sides. Cormac Dolan was the 'towns goal scorer and Daniel Kennedy came off the bench for his first appearance for an adult team and gave a good account of himself.

O'Rourke Cup, 06/03/2011

2011-03-07T11:24:00.002Z

Strokestown 1-7, Boyle 0-15.

The 'Town got off to a dissapointing start in the O'Rourke Cup, being defeated away to Boyle by 5 points. Trailing by 5 points at half-time 'Town brought the game back to a 1 point game with a penalty in the second half from Conor Silke, but Boyle finished the game the better restoring their 5 point lead in the final 10 minutes.

Team: John McHugh, Donal Molloy, Johnny Dolan, Ian Rogers, Niall Brogan, Daniel Rogers, Ruaidhrí Molloy, Mattie Colum, Seamus Collins, Philip Duignan, John Rogers, Kenny Bosquette, Enda Molloy, Thomas Shanagher, Conor Silke. Subs: Ciaran Reilly for Johnny Dolan, Pearse McGinley for Philip Duignan, Damien Caslin for Conor Silke (blood sub).

Tansey Cup 27/02/2011

2011-02-28T09:45:00.002Z

Strokestown 1-9, Shannon Gaels 1-6.

The 2011 season got off to a good start for the 'Town with the Junior's putting in a good performance to beat Shannon Gaels' first team in the first round of the Tansey Cup. Veteran Kenny Bosquette was the goal scorer for the 'Black and Amber' and the game also saw Kevin Finn come off the bench to make his first appearance for an adult team in the town.

Team: Niall Curley, John Dolan, John Hagan, Ian Rogers, Damian Shaughnessy, Emmet Collins, Donal Molloy, Ciaran Reilly, Thomas Hughes, Philip Duignan, Niall Brogan, Pearse McGinley, Kenny Bosquette, Thomas Shanagher, David Kelly. Sub: Kevin Finn

Senior Championship 16/08/09

2009-08-18T17:33:00.002+01:00

Strokestown 1-15 St. Faithleachs 2-09 (Roscommon Herald match report 18/08/09)

Those who feel that scoring difference is an unfair system of deciding placings in the group stages of the championship when teams finish level on points would have garnered plenty of ammunition for their argument in Strokestown on Sunday last. Needing an eight point victory to reach the quarter-finals, Strokestown produced a performance laden with spirt and courage that ultimately came up short of the miracle they required. The home side played as well as they've played all year but, ultimately, ended up in relegation trouble.

The tough conditions didn't deter both teams from producing one of the best games in this years championship. Strokestown deserve immense credit for keeping the game alive and they created more than enough chances to eke out the winning margin they required. Unfortunately a couple of defensive lapses proved costly and Aidan Dooney's two goals kept Faithleach's in the hunt to confirm their place in the quarter-final.
Dooney's second goal arrived two minutes from time when Strokestown were five points to the good and threatening to poach the goal they required to put the cat among the pigeons. Yet the home side kept trying to the end with Conor Silke and John Rogers flashing shots either side of the post in injury-time. Faithleach's goalkeeper Derek Thompson also had to be alert to parry Rogers' goalbound shot around the post in the games dying embers. While Faithleach's played well within themselves, Clement McCormack's accuracy from open play alongside Dooney's two goals saved them from an embarrising exit.

Playing against the wind and the rain in the opening half, Strokestown took the game to St. Faithleach's. A pointed free from John Rogers inside the first minute signalled early intent on the 'Towns part but two points from Clement McCormack inside a minute settled his sides nerves. The visitors surged further ahead in the 13th minute when MartinReynolds picked out Henry Kenny in space and the corner forward pointed with aplomb.
To Strokestown's credit they dominated the rest of the half. Mattie Colum fastened himself onto the end of an enterprising move in the 21st minute after Rogers had pointed a free four minutes earlier. Sandwhiched between those two scores was a free from Darragh Hussey and an excellent point from the right wing by Brian Murtagh. Rogers and Gary Cox traded points before a flurry of scores before the half-time whistle gave Strokestown a one point lead. Conor Silke and Niall Brogan landed two excellent efforts from play before Rogers gave his side the lead score from a free, 0-7 to 0-6.
Within two minutes of the restart, Rogers had pointed again with his left foot. A foul on Faitleach's wing back Kieran Brennan resulted in a free for Hussey before Dooney struck for his first goal. In reality it was a gift from the Strokestown defence as the full-forward intercepted Ronan Owens' pass, raced through on goal and planted the ball beyond John McHugh in the Strokestown goal. Yet Strokestown continued to push forward with Seamus Collins prominent at midfield and Paul McLoughlin very impressive in defence. Rogers bisected the posts from a sideline kick but the ever reliable McCormack pointed from an acute angle up the other end of the field. Some great work by Paddy Brogan in the 43rd minute saw Pearse McGinley pump possession into Mattie Colum on the edge of the square. He directed the ball to the supporting Rogers who duly raised a green flag to give Strokestown belief once again. Two frees from Rogers were followed by a '45 from goalkeeper John McHugh as Strokestown went for broke. Conor Silke and Padraig Wallace swapped points from play before Strokestown wing-back John Hagan ambled forward to restore his side's five point advantage. The impossible now looked very possible and Faithleach's full-back Derek Murray had to make a crucial interception in the 56th minute. Two minutes later, Dooney gave his side the breathing space they required when he was on the end of a move involving substitute Alan Brehon. A Silke point pushed Strokestown's lead out to three points, but try as they might their bravery wasn't rewarded.

Strokestown: J.McHugh (0-1, a'45), J.Doaln, R.Owens, P.McLoughlin, J.Hagan (0-1), M.Beirne, N.Brogan (0-1), P.McGinley, S.Collins, P.Brogan, J.Rogers (1-8, six frees, one sideline), M.Colum (0-1), D.Rogers, C.Silke (0-3), E.Molloy. Subs: T.Hanly for J.Dolan (54 mins), T.Hughes for P.McGinley (55mins), C.Compton for E.Molloy (56mins).

Roscommon Herald Player of the Match: Paul McLoughlin (Strokestown)
The Strokestown corner-back had an excellent game and epitomised his team's never-say-die spirit. He disrupted the St.Faithleach's supply lines and made a number of excellent interceptions. Seamus Collins, John Rogers and Conor Silke also tried hard for the winners. Best for St.Faithleach's were Enda Kenny, Kieran Brennan, Clement McCormack.

(words by Ian Cooney, Roscommon Herald)

Tansey Cup: Strokestown V Oran 24/05/09

2009-05-27T14:30:00.003+01:00

Strokestown 2-3, Oran 1-14.

Team: Thomas Shanagher, Damian Shaughnessy, Ciarán O'Reilly, Alan Kelly, Paul McLoughlin, Cian Crosbie, Donal Molloy, Philip Duignan, Cormac Hanly, James Carr (0-1), Niall Brogan (1-0), Leo Cauneen, David Parker, Conor Silke (0-2), David Kelly (1-0).
Subs: Andrew Duignan, Colm Dowd.

O'Rourke Cup 15/05/09 Strokestown V St.Brigids

2009-05-18T22:04:00.002+01:00

St. Brigids 3-12, Strokestown 1-17

The 747 sponsored senior team lost out to St. Brigids in a fantastic game of football in the O'Rourke Cup on Friday evening last in Kiltoom. Despite scoring 20 points Town still lost by the minimum of margins. The game was a highlight of all that is good in football with both teams fully commited to the cause. The never say die attitude shown from the Black and amber was exemplery as the boys battled back on a couple of occasions from a position from where it looked like the home side were in the ascendency. The tough work done earlier in the year on the training field was certainly in eveidence as Strokestown were well able to play for the full 65 to 70 minutes that were played.
If it was not only for two very fortunate goals for the home side Strokestown would have been very comfortable winners. The first was a simple finish from the edge of the square after an effort for a point came back off the post. Despite this Town managed to claw their way back into the game scoring 11 points in the first half to draw level approaching half time but then Brigids struck for their freak second goal. A shot which was going right and wide deflected of the head of a St. Brigids player and sent the ball into the opposite corner of the net.
In the second half Strokestown again faught their way back and actually took the lead with a goal from David Parker. But Brigids then got their third goal when Their right half forward was aloowed to cut in from the right and finish low into the bottom corner. With about 5 minutes to go Strokestown found themselves down by 5 points and the game looked over but again the boys managed to put the minimum between the sides with 4 consecutive points and were very unfortunate not to see one of the efforts go under the crossbar.
In the end St. Brigids just managed to hang on with some of their players admitting afterwards that they didn't deserve the win. The game bodes well for Strokestown as despite a number of injuries and absentees the lads who came in certainly making a case for their place on the championship team in 5 weeks time. Best for Strokestown on the day were Matty Colum, Thomas Shanagher, David Parker and the ever dependable captain John Rogers. Others to impress and who covered huge amounts of ground were Morgan Beirne, John Hagan and Daniel Rogers.

TEAM: John McHugh, Johnny Dolan, Ciarán O'Reilly, Colin Dowd, Daniel Rogers (0-1), Morgan Beirne, Emmet Collins (0-1), Matty Colum (0-2), Seamus Collins (0-2), John Hagan (0-1), John Rogers (0-5), Ruaidhri Molloy (0-1), Thomas Shanagher (0-2), Ronan Owens, David Parker (1-2).
SUBS: Damian Caslin for Colin Dowd, Thomas Hughes for Ruaidhri Molloy, Donal Molloy for Emmet Collins.

Strokestown V St. Aidans, O'Rourke Cup 08/05/09

2009-05-14T18:26:00.002+01:00

Strokestown 0-12, St. Aidans 2-10.

*Game was switched to Ballyforan due to the pitch in Farnbeg being unplayable.

Team: John McHugh, Johnny Dolan, Ciarán O'Reilly, Colin Dowd, Paul McLoughlin, Morgan Beirne, Daniel Rogers, John Hagan, Seamus Collins, Matty Colum, Ronan Owens, Ruaidhri Molloy, Emmet Collins, Niall Brogan, John Rogers.
Subs: Paddy Brogan for Paul McLoughlin, Damian Caslin for Colin Dowd, Thomas Shanagher for Emmet Collins.

O'Rourke Cup Strokestown V Kilmore 25/04/09

2009-04-26T18:00:00.005+01:00

Strokestown 0-13, KIlmore 0-11.

The senior team made it 4 wins on the trot with a fantastic derby victory over Kilmore in Kilmore. A stunning second half performance was the catalyst for the black and amber victory with Coman and Colm on the sideline making some astute tactical changes which worked out perfectly.

Strokestown began the first 10 minutes of the game brightly registering the first score and adding a second but after this until the 29' it was all Kilmore. Town seemed unable to get the ball inside the Kilmore 45 during this period with the home side pouring on and picking up all the braking ball. In this spell Kilmore kicked 7 unanswered points. Strokestown crucially got a 3rd point in the last minute of the half which left a 4 point gap between the sides. For all Kilmore's pressure they still hadn't managed to create a clear winning margin.

The second half was a completly different affair from a black and amber perspective. Town made 3 changes at half time with Paddy Brogan replacing Davie Parker, Damian Caslin replacing Johnny Dolan and Ronan Owens replacing Emmet Collins. In fact with some tactical manouvering from the side line Shovels went in to the edge of the Kilmore square with John Rogers reverting to wing back and Paddy Brogan playing corner forward. Strokestown also dispensed with the 2 man inside forward line and reverted to the traditional 3 man full forward line. These tactical changes prooved to be the winning of the game with Town keeping alot better shape and playing like men possessed. Morgan Beirne who had also switched from centre back to mid field, with John Hagan going the other way, was a constant thorn for the Kilmore team around the middle. Shaggy picked up numerous breaking ball and was winning the ugly ball. In fact John Hagan did an outstanding job at centre back expertly man marking Kilmores dangerous centre forward.
With a greater amount of posession and more urgency Town began to bite away at the Kilmore lead with scores coming from John Rogers, Rory Molloy and Seamus Collins. Kilmore tagged on a couple of scores to retake the lead but back came the black and amber, with Matty Colum catching some great ball in the middle of the park and allowing the forward line gain the ball and draw the fouls which John Rogers converted.
With the sides tied with 5 minutes to play it was Strokestown who found that little bit more to carve out a victory. First Paddy Broagn, who had a stormer at corner forward, sent over a superb point with the outside of his boot and John Rogers sealed the win with a free from the 21. The game ended with Kilmore searching for the 3 pointer but the Town backline held firm dealing fantastically with all the high ball that was thrown their way.

Team: John McHugh, Johnny Dolan, Ciarán O'Reilly, Paul McLoughlin, Daniel Rogers, Morgan Beirne, Emmet Collins, John Hagan, Seamus Collins (0-1), Matty Colum, Niall Broagn, Rory Molloy(0-1), John Rogers (0-7), Conor Silke (0-3), David Parker.
Subs: Damian Caslin for Johnny Dolan, Paddy Broagn (0-1) for David Parker, Ronan Owens for Emmet Collins.

O'Rourke Cup Strokestown V St Faithleachs 18/04/09

2009-04-26T17:50:00.002+01:00

Strokestown 1-12, St Faithleachs 0-10

Team & scorers: John Mchugh, Johnny Dolan, Ciarán O'Reilly, Colin Dowd, Daniel Rogers, Morgan Beirne, Emmet Collins, John Hagan, Seamus Collins (0-2), Matty Colum, Niall Brogan (0-2), Rory Molloy (0-1), John Rogers (0-1), Conor Silke (0-4), Enda Molloy (1-2).
Subs: Paul McLoughlin for Colin Dowd, Paddy Brogan for Enda Molloy, Ronan Owens for Seamus Collins.

Strokestown V Padraig Pearses 13/04/09

2009-04-17T21:40:00.002+01:00

Strokestown 2-08, Padraig Pearses 0-06

Strokestown picked up their second win in the league with an impressive 8 point victory over Padraig Pearses on Easter Monday.
Played in poor conditions it was the home side who got to grips with the weather the best. Strokestown began the game with a bang finding the back of the Pearses net after a couple of minutes. The move began with Colin Dowd winning possesion on his own 14 yard line. From there it was worked up to Rory Molloy who delivered a fantastic ball into his brother Enda who in turn passed into Conor Silke who finished to the net. This gave 'Town emphasis in the game and they certainly up the ante with faboulus scores coming Niall Brogan, Enda Molloy, John Rogers (3) and Conor Silke. In fact it could have been more but for the Pearses goalkeeper making a fantastic save from Silke mid-way through the half. Pearses themselves responded with just 2 points during the half. At half time 'Town held a 7 point lead but had to face the wind in the second half.

The second half was all about the pressure exerted by the Strokestown players. The forward line put severe pressure on their oponents not allowing them a second on the ball thus preventing them from delivering quality ball. This gave the backs ample opportunity to win 50 50 balls that ended up being kicked in. In fact it was from one of these turnovers that 'Town extended their lead to 10 points. Matty Colum found himself 1 on 1 with the Pearses keeper and superbly slotted the ball left footed past him. Strokestown added a further 2 points during the half from John Rogers and Conor Silke. In reply Padraig Pearses could only tag on 4 points, 3 coming from frees.

This was another wonderful display from the 'Town, who were without a number of individuals on the day. This was also an important win as Padraig Pearses lie in wait in the championship this summer. Hopefully the outcome that day will be just as good.

Team: John McHugh, Johnny Dolan, Ciarán O'Reilly, Colin Dowd, Daniel Rogers, Emmet Collins, Ruairi Farrell, Matty Colum, Seamus Collins, Paddy Brogan, Niall Brogan, Rory Molloy, John Rogers, Conor Silke, Enda Molloy.

O'Rourke Cup, Strokestown V Castlerea 04/04/09

2009-04-06T18:53:00.002+01:00

Strokestown 2-9, Castlerea 0-7.

The senior team picked up their first 2 points of the year with a comprehensive victory over reigning county champions Castlerea in Strokestown on saturday evening last. The overnight rain left the pitch in a very bad state but it was Strokestown who managed the conditions much the better.

Playing into a strong wind in the first half Strokestown played some very good football at times. One aspect of play that stood out during the half was the great support play of the black and amber. This led to one goal in the first half, a rasper from Conor Silke. Town could have had a second goal but John Hagan saw his effort just go over the crossbar for a point. Hagan, playing in mid-field, also added a second point during the half. Enda Molloy and John Rogers also added a point each during the half. Castlerea kept in touch with points from the vetern Derek Duggan and Ger Heneghan frees. One sour note from the first half was the bad injury picked up by Thomas Hughes who was replaced by Rory Molloy. At half time Strokestown went in with a 2 point cushion leading 1-4 to 0-5.

Castlerea opened the scoring at the start of the second half to leave just the minimum between the sides but after this it became all about the black and amber. Strokestown tagged on further points from Enda Molloy and 3 John Rogers scores. Castlerea tried there best to get back into the game but found the Strokestown backline in a particularly mean mood, giving the visitors no time on the ball and forcing countless turnovers. In fact Castlerea were restricted to just 2 points in the second half both coming from placed balls. Strokestown finished the game in style with Niall Brogan grabbing the second goal of the game, again after some very slick passing from the home side, and Emmet Collins sending a long range effort over the bar.

This was a very impressive display from the Town with the players showing a great hunger for the victory. Hopefully the team can build on this performance and pull themselves further up the league table.

Team & scorers: John McHugh, Johnny Dolan, Ciarán O'Reilly, Colin Dowd, Daniel Rogers, Cormac Hanly, Emmett Collins(0-1), John Hagan(0-2), Seamus Collins, Thomas Hughes, Niall Brogan(1-0), Matty Colum, John Rogers(0-4), Conor Silke(1-0), Enda Molloy(0-2).
Subs: Rory Molloy for Thomas Hughes, Thomas Shanagher for Conor Silke, Paul McLoughlin for Cormac Hanly.

Strokestown V St. Joseph's - Tansey Cup March 21

2009-03-23T17:45:00.003Z

Strokestown 4-4, St. Joseph's 2-7.

Strokestown Juniors secured their first win of the year with a hard earned victory over Kilteevan side St. Joseph's. In a game that ebbed and flowed either way it was Strokestown's ability to create and finish goal scoring opportunities which enabled the 'town to claim the 2 points on offer.

Playing against the wind in the first half Stroketown played some lovely football. Great support play at times helped the black and amber cut through the visitors back line. It was this great support play which allowed Strokestown to score 2 crucial goals which were clinically finished to the net by Niall Brogan and Thomas Shanagher respectively. St. Joseph's however kept in touch kicking 4 points of their own in the first half. The visitors could have had more were it not for the good handling of goalkeeper Francis Convey who was making his first appearance for a Strokestown adult team. Strokestown finished the half strongly by tagging on a further point from Thomas Shanagher who was proving himself a handful for the Joseph's defenders.

The second half started with both sides exchanging points with Rory Molloy getting the town's score. The next 15 minutes was then all St. Joseph's as the town struggled to get the ball into their full forward line. In this period Joseph's scored 2 goals and 3 points to pull level and then take the lead. It could have been more were it not for some heroic defending from the 'town defence with Cormac Hanly putting in one outstanding block in particular. In the final 10 minutes Strokestown began to regain their shape and composere and managed to get the scores they needed. A great diagonal ball from Rory Molloy found Shanagher who gathered Donaghyesque and fired over the bar from the 21. Then Shanagher scored his second goal after finding himself one on one with the goalkeeper. Seamus Collins then sent a goal bound effort thundering off the crossbar but got a point from the effort. Conor Silke had a good opportunity but his shot narrowly went the wrong side of the post. Finally it was left to John Hagan to finish off St. Joseph's when his shot looped over the Joseph's goalkeeper to find the net for Strokestown's fourth goal of the game. It must be said that it was a horrible attempt at a point but Hagan maintains that he was in fact going for goal.

Castlerea Oust Strokestown

2008-08-26T09:52:00.005+01:00

Shannonside FM Senior Football Championship

Strokestown .................................... 0-9
Castlerea St. Kevin’s ......................... 0-13

Castlerea St. Kevin’s progressed to the quarter-finals of the Shannonside FM Senior Football Championship with a hard-fought four-point win over Strokestown in Kiltoom on Saturday evening last.
They certainly did not make life easy for themselves however after an inept first half performance left them trailing by three points at the interval. Having said that a much improved second half display sealed their passage through to the last eight of the championship and condemned Strokestown to the relegation play-offs.
Strokestown – for their part – will be disappointed with their performance considering they dominated proceedings in the opening period and lead the contest by 0-7 to 0-3 at one stage. They will now need to re-group to face the dreaded relegation play-off which will take place in the forthcoming weeks.
The teams exchanged points in the early stages of the opening period with John Rogers converting two frees for Strokestown and Ger Heneghan and Sean Ryan accounting for Castlerea’s opening scores.
Castlerea were awarded a penalty in the 12th minute of proceedings after Ronan Curran had been upended but Heneghan seen his tame spot-kick well saved by John McHugh in the Strokestown goal.
Rogers kicked two points to propel his side into the a two-point lead before Castlerea’s John Duggan reduced the deficit with a well-taken score in the 21st minute. Strokestown began to stamp their authority on proceedings at this stage in the contest and three points followed approaching the interval – two from county star Rogers and the other coming from Rory O’Connor.
Castlerea now had it all to do but Heneghan pointed a sideline ball on the stroke of half-time to leave three points separating the teams at the break – 0-7 to 0-4.
Castlerea were a transformed team on the resumption and it didn’t take long for them to level matters through Heneghan (2) and Enda Kenny. However the relentless Rogers was on hand for Strokestown to restore his side’s lead in the contest by a solitary point.
Heneghan converted a free midway through the second period to level proceedings once again as Castlerea’s dominance began to gain rewards. The introduction of Dermot Lyons was also to have a telling factor on the game – he kicked three points in the final quarter when the Strokestown challenge began to fade.
Further scores from Noel Curran and Heneghen sealed Castlerea’s victory and put the cherry on top of a very impressive second half display which sees them qualify for the quarter-finals of the Shannonside FM Senior Football Championship.
Castlerea, St. Kevin’s: G. Claffey; G. Tiernan, P. Duignan, E. Creaton; N. Curran (0-1), D. Murphy, D. Flahive; M. Killilea, J. Duggan (0-1); S. Ryan (0-1), E. Kenny (0-1), C. Dineen; R. Curran, N. Dineen, G. Henneghan (0-6, three frees). Subs: M. Finneran for Creaton (blood-sub), D. Creaton for Flahive (43 mins), D. Lyons (0-3) for Duggan (46 mins), B. Carty for Ryan (60 mins).
Strokestown: J. McHugh; N. Owens, R. Owens, J. Dolan; D. Rogers, M. Beirne, E. Collins; M. Collum, D. Hagan; J. Rogers (0-8, six frees), P. McGinley, R. O’Connor (0-1)’ K.J Dolan, K. Bosquette, C. Silke. Subs: E. Molloy for Bosquette (38mins), N. Brogan for K. J Dolan (56mins), D. Caslin for J. Dolan (56mins)
Referee: J. Reilly.

From the Roscommon People

See the herald's story here

O'Rourke Cup

2008-06-22T18:14:00.002+01:00

Strokestown 1-8; Kilbride 0-9.

Team: J.McHugh, J.Dolan, R.Owens, D.Caslin, N.Brogan, E.Collins, D.Rogers, M.Beirne, P.McGinley, K.J.Dolan, E.Molloy(0-1), J.Rogers(0-5), D.Parker(1-0), K.Bosquette, C.Silke(0-2).
Subs: P.Duignan, S.Collins, N.Owens, T.Shanagher, C.Crosbie, P.McLoughlin.

The 'Town picked up their 6th point in this years O'Rourke Cup following a hard fought win against neighbours Kilbride on Sunday the 22 June. Both teams weren't helped by the fact that there was a gale force wind blowing straight down the field into the dressing room end.
However it was in the first half, playing into the gale, that the 'Town arguably won the game. Strokestown played some great running football and showed great support play when facing the elements. Enda Molloy, Conor Silke and John Rogers scored 4 points between them and David Parker scored a crucial goal just before half-time to leave the score at the break 1-4 to 5. ith the wind to come in the second half town were in driving seat.

The second half wasn't as lively affair with both defences on top. Kilbride tryed to make a coeback but everytime they got a score 'Town were able to go back down the other end and reply. 3 pointed frees from Rogey and an fantastic effort from the Duck were the 'Towns four scores in the second half.

Thats now 2 wins on the trot for the boys following last weeks victory over St. Aidans. With 2 weeks to the first round contest with St. Brigid's hopefully the 'Town can keep the momentum up and start their championship campaign with a victory over the reigning county champions.

O'Rourke Cup

2008-06-04T19:23:00.002+01:00

Strokestown 1-11
Kilmore 1-12

Team: John McHugh, Johnny Dolan, Niall Owens, John Hagan, Niall Brogan, Ronan Owens, Daniel Rogers, Morgan Beirne, Rory O'Connor, Kevin J. Dolan, Emmet Collins, John Rogers, Kenny Bosquette, Enda Molloy, Conor Silke.
Subs: David Parker, Mattie Colum, Thomas Shanagher, Damian Caslin.

Tansey Cup April 19

2008-04-23T16:17:00.005+01:00

Strokestown 0-7, Elphin 0-7.

Last Saturday evening Strokestown took on neighbours Elphin in the Tansey Cup in Farnbeg. After many cancellations the black and amber finally got to take to the field for some much needed game time.

Strokestown took to the field with a nice mix of youth and experience with wise heads such as Donal Hanly, Emmet Collins and Colin Dowd guiding up and coming players such as Rory Geoghan and Gerd Collins throughthe game.

Playing into a very strong wind in the first half Strokestown were very competitive from the off. Utilising the pace of strong runners Daniel Rogers, Niall Brogan and Enda Molloy, Strokestown managed to break inside the Elphin '45 on numerous occasions. However it was a lack of compusere inside the Elphin '45 in the first half that saw the town turn over to much pocession.

From these counter attacks Elphin managed to race into a 3 point lead. Town hit back to register their first score from a Gerd Collins effort from play and then narrowed the gap to one when Enda Molloy pointed a 14 yard free. Town could have taken the lead soon after when an elphin defender was harshly judged to have picked the ball off the ground in the small square but Molloy dragged the resultant penalty wide of the keepers right hand post. Town should have had a second penalty minutes later when a brilliant move involving Niall Brogan, Ciaran O'Reilly, Daniel Rogers, Gooch Daly ended with Paddy Gaynor being blatantly shouldered in the back when a goal seemed the only outcome. However the referee didn't give the decision and from here Elphin managed to kick on to stretch their lead to 3 points after points from Matty Hynes and Niall Travers. Elphin could have had some more scores were it not for some resolute defending from the black and amber with Cian Crosbie putting in an outstanding first half performance. Strokestown managed to pick of another score from a Molloy free to narrow the gap to 2 points at half time, 5-3, and with the benefit of the strong wind to come it looked like town were in the driving seat.

The second half began with Elphin stretching their lead to 3 points. But from here town began to pick up the pace and were really penetrating through the centre of the Elphin defence. With Seamus Collins having being relocated to the edge of the square town began to deploy the long ball into the Elphin square. This tactic bore fruit early on with scores coming off breaking ball from Seamus with Thomas Shanagher and Gerd Collins on target. However the quality of delivery into the full forward line soon slowed up and Collins was moved back out the field to help secure pocession around the middle of the field. Elphin had by this stage registered their final score to take a 7-5 lead with 10 minutes remaining. However Strokestown showed that never say die attitude and managed to come back strongly at Elphin in the final 10 minutes with Daniel Rogers and Bull O'Reilly driving Strokestown forward. In fact a rare point from Bull closed the gap to the minimum with 5 minutes to play and soon after Daniel Rogers sent over a wonderful effort from 30 yards after a barnstorming run through the middle of the Elphin defence. This left the sides tied on 7 a piece going into injury time. One sensed another score would surely proove the winner for either team. In fact both teams through everything at each other for the win. Town could have snatched it but a Molloy free 30 yards out to the left of the goals just drifted to the right and went narrowly wide. Then it looked like Elphin were going to snatch victory but the home defence stood firm and Philip Duignan in particular put in a heroic block to prevent Elphin snatching the win.

In the end a draw was probably the fairest result. Despite alot of pocession Town really lacked a killer instinct inside the Elphin 45 yard line. However considering this was the first game for the lads in over a month they put in a battling performance. This outing will no doubt do the team good and some much needed game time was got by some players. The full back line for town were outstanding all game and it was great to see Cian Crosbie back in the black and amber and putting in such an outsatnding performance. The town need players like Cian to return and help younger players coming through to help the younger players make the jump from juvenile football. In fact this is probably what cost town and manager Colm Dowd a victory today as they had no options on the bench. Elphin were capable of introducing 3/4 subs but Town had to rely on reintroducing Andrew Duignan who himself was carrying an injurry. With so many players visibly tiring in the closing stages fresh legs were needed but were not to be had. Seeing this I myself am imploring all lads who are able to tog out to come out to trianing and help the Town in the league and championship. In the year we will say goodbye to Farnbeg it would be nice to see all players making that special effort.

Team: Donal Hanly, Rory Geoghan, Emmet Collins, Cian Crosbie, Niall Brogan, Philip Duignan, Colin Dowd, Seamus Collins, Daniel Rogers, Gerd Collins, Enda Molloy, Andrew Duignan, Paul 'Gooch' Daly, Thomas Shanagher, Paddy Gaynor.

Subs: Ciaran 'Bull' O'Reilly for A. Duignan, A. Duignan for P. Gaynor

Elphin: M. Byrne, K. Beirne, K. Byrne, M. Brady, D. Neary, M. Travers, M. Kielty, N. Travers, B. Neary, M. McCaffrey, M. Callery, M. Cregg, L. Taylor, M. Hynes, P. McKeon

Subs: G. Cregg, K. Brady, G. Brady

Tansey Cup March 15th

2008-03-18T13:51:00.000Z

St. Joseph's 1-8, Strokestown 2-5.

Team & Scorers; Donal Hanly, Paul McLoughlin, Ciaran O'Reilly, Colin Dowd, Daniel Rogers, Philip Duignan (0-1), Niall Brogan, Seamus Collins, Cormac Hanly, Dermot Lohan, Conor Silke (0-4), Andrew Duignan, Damian Shaughnessy (2-0), Gerard Collins, Patrick Gaynor. Subs: Paul 'Gooch' Daly, Brendan 'Pooch' Daly, Thomas Shanagher.

O'Rourke Cup March 9th

2008-03-09T20:44:00.000Z

Castlerea St. Kevin's 1-08; Strokestown 0-08.

The 747 sponsored senior team began their league campaign in O'Rourke Park Castlerea on Sunday morning March 9th. In a tough game played on very boggy underfoot conditions the home side emerged victorious after the strokestown goalie (Me) gifted Castlerea a goal.

Castlerea opened the scoring in the game from a free before Strokestown replied through a John Rogers point. Castlerea added on two further scores from very soft free's before Strokestown tagged on some very good score's from play to take the lead. The town showed some great creativity to engineer scoring positions for Conor Silke, Rory O'Connor, Kenny Bosquette and John Rogers. Town could have stretched the lead even further during the half but Thomas Shanagher scuffed a shot from the edge of the square after John Rogers had pulled the ball back to him along the ground. At the half-time whistle the 'Town' led by 5 points to 3.

At the start of the second half both teams traded points with Rory O'Connor scoring a great point with the outside of his right boot. Then came the turning point of the game. Strokestown goalie, John McHugh, came to deal with a high ball landing to the left of the goals but failed to do so. In an effort to punch the ball clear the goalie only managed to clear straight to a Castlerea player who had the simple task of sending the ball into an empty net. The keeper acknowledged afterwards that he would have been better advised to catch the ball! After greatfully receiving such a gift Castlerea kicked on and added four more points in the final 15 mins. With 10 mins left in the game things turned a bit ugly. Strokestown's Niall Owens was shown a straight red by referee Seamus Regan for reacting to an elbow from Ger Heneghan. If Niall did deserve to go for his reaction then it is perplexing how Heneghan did'nt follow him after leaving Niall with a bloody mouth after swinging his elbow. Considering the Castlerea player had already been booked for something less serious it is amazing how this incident did'nt seem to warrant another yellow! Strokestown tried valiantly with 14 men to get back into the game but could only manage points from David Parker and Seamus Collins, who was making his first competitive start for the senior team. In the end the 'Town' came up short with that gifted goal being the difference between the teams in the end.

Best for Strokestown on the day were Daniel Rogers, who made some stroming runs from wing-back along the right flank, and Seamus Collins, who caught some great ball in the middle of the field on his league debut.

Team & Scorers: John McHugh, Johnny Dolan, Niall Owens, Damian Caslin, Daniel Rogers, Ciaran O'Reilly, Morgan Beirne, Seamus Collins(0-01), Derek Hagan, Niall Brogan, Rory O'Connor(0-02), John Rogers(0-02), Thomas Shanagher, Kenny Bosquette (0-01), Conor Silke (0-01).
Subs: Ronan Owens for Derek Hagan, John Hagan for Damian Caslin, David Parker (0-01) for Thomas Shanagher.

Senior Football Challenge Sat Feb 23

2008-02-23T18:35:00.000Z

Strokestown 1-10, Annaduff 1-3.

The first outing of the year for 'the town' took place saturday afternoon the 23 february in Annaduf, Leitrim. In difficult conditions with a strong wind blowing cross field both teams did well to offer up an entertaining game of football.

Strokestown started the game brightly and got to grips with the conditions far quicker than the home side. Enda Molloy opened the scoring with a well taken point from 20 yards off his left foot. Soon after a great flowing move by 'the town' ended with John Rogers doing what he does best, blasting the ball to the net. Town added further points from a John Rogers free and Enda Molloy again before Annaduff registered their first and only point of the first half following a mix up in the town defence. Town ended the half with further points from Niall Brogan, Rogers, David Parker and Kenny Bosquette. The score at half time was 1-7 to 1 for the town.

The second half began with a new ref throwing in the ball. Our very own Shane Flaherty stepped into the firing line after the original ref had to leave. The second half proved to be a very free flowing game with the ref anxious to let both teams keep the ball alive by letting many heavy hits go. Town were now playing against the elements which seemed to be favouring the home side more. Town struggled to get the ball inside the Annaduff 21 yard line yet whenever they did they looked dangerous. Town registered 3 points in the second half from Rogers, Parker and Bosquette. Town could have had another goal after Thomas Shanagher failed to convert after he had gathered the ball after a David Parker thunderbolt came back off the crossbar. Shanagher was positive that his legs had been taken from underneath him by the home defence but the referee was adamant that the town corner forward slipped! Annaduff registered 2 points in reply during the half and with a couple of minutes left in the game they scored a consolation goal. Annaduff came close to another goal at the end after John McHugh saved a one on one but the rebound shot out and hit John Hagan but the corner back was alert enough to get back and clear the ball off the line.

This was a good work out for the town and gave some much needed game time to young up and coming players like Paul McLughlin, Niall Brogan and Seamus Collins. Derek Hagan made some typical sky-scraper catches in the middle of the field and looked very hungry for action. Others to play well were Morgan Beirne, Enda Molloy, John Rogers and Dessie Barry who made a brief cameo at the start of the game!

Strokestown Team: John McHugh, Paul McLoughlin, John Hagan, Dessie Barry, Daniel Rogers, Ciaran O'Reilly, Niall Brogan, Derek Hagan, Seamus Collins, Enda Molloy, Kenny Bosquette, David Parker, Thomas Shanagher, John Rogers, Damian Shaughnessy.

Subs: Morgan Beirne for Dessie Barry after 4 mins!

Hastings Cup

2008-01-29T23:17:00.000Z

Roscommon 2-11 Longford 0-02

Roscommon U21's produced a marvellous display on saturday the 26th in Ballyleague to easily see off Longford. Our own John Hagan had a very solid game at corner back for the Rossies & can be very pleased with his display. Well done Johnny.
The two teams will meet again in the final after both had already qualified with victories over Westmeath & Leitrim.