Monaleen Juvenile GAA Club

Monaleen played their first ever competitive U14 match on Tuesday with Murroe Boher the opponents in a new East Limerick competition. From the outset it was clear that Murroe with the bulk of their players in the 13 and 14 age categories were physically the stronger side. However, although playing against the strong breeze, Monaleen defended bravely with Sarah Hayes at full back and Eileen Russell in goal playing well. At half time in was Murroe in front at 1-1 to no score.

All the players and coaches were confident that with the second half assistance of the wind the game was finely balanced. A goal conceded within a minute of the second half commencing made the task that bit harder. Monaleen dominated the remainder of the match. Team captain Shannon Power had her best game this season and drove the ball towards the Monaleen forwards on numerous occasions. Grainne Fullen and Blathin O Shea contributed as Murroe struggled to get the ball out of their own half.

With 10 minutes to go Niamh Doyle struck with a well taken goal. Then Aine Hegarty who had near misses earlier from placed balls forced a fantastic save from the Murroe keeper. Les Ivory was first to the breaking ball and appeared to score however the umpire felt it had not crossed the line and Monaleen remained 1-1 in arrears. This proved too much and although Monaleen continued to attack with fine solo runs from Rachel Keegan time ran out.

Overall it was a great performance and a great match enjoyed by players and supporters.

Score Monaleen 1-0 Murroe Boher 2-1

Panel: Eileen Russell; Laura Enright; Niamh Doyle; Aine Hegarty; Grainne Fullen; Shannon Power; Blathin O Shea; Leah Quinlan; Lesley Ann Ivors; Samantha Stritch; Sarah Hayes; Rachel Keegan