Derry League
Eglish got off to winning ways in their first Derry League game last Friday evening against Ballinderry. Eglish led narrowly at half time but Ballinderry brought it back to a draw during the second half. However the girls fought back in the last ten minutes winning 2-07, 1-06.
This week Eglish are at home to Slaughtneil. Going by last year’s game it will more than likely be a tough, physical encounter. Time to be confirmed.
U16 League
Well done to the U16s who had a very strong win over Eire Og last Wednesday. From the team performance it is clear to see that the additional coaching is having a huge impact! Well done coaches!
Pan Celtic Tournament
Huge congratulations to the U16 side who travelled to Owenbeg on Saturday and came away winners of the shield section beating strong camogie clubs throughout the day. Also well done to the coaches Kelley Fay and David McKenna, this win is testament to the superb coaching the girls are receiving. Report of the day below from Kelley.
Clonduff was our first game and they looked very good having just overcome a strong Castledawson side. Eglish though benefitted from having the wind advantage in the first half and managed to notch up some great scores from Leanne Donnelly, Morgan Horsfield and Amy Barrett leading into the break. Despite being against the wind for the 2nd half, Eglish’s defence were strong throughout – Michelle Mc Gready, Shannon Gildernew and Megan Vincent keeping Clonduff at bay. Goalkeeper Catherine Muldoon was tested on numerous occasions but managed to hold strong.
A quick turnaround saw Eglish take the field against Castledawson in which they needed the win to secure top spot and guarantee their place in the semi’s. Again Eglish were fortunate to have the wind advantage at the beginning and it was Reagan Fay, Aoife McConnell and Blaithin McVeigh who all battled to get scores on the board. Una Barrett & Francine Farley worked tirelessly to ensure Eglish remained in front. Eglish looked the hungrier side & demonstrated great team play.
Finishing top of the group meant meeting a strong looking Creggan side in the Semi’s. Some of the younger players such as Aisling Begley & Cliodhna Goodfellow definitely didn’t let size intimidate them and battled hard for Eglish showing their spirit. More scores were registered and Casey Gallagher and Emma Muldoon worked endlessly around the middle ensuring the forward line was receiving plenty of ball. Catherine Donnelly & Laura Mason showed their strengths in this game carrying the ball well and taking on scores against a severe wind! Eglish were not losing this game and despite the difficult conditions they put in a big performance.
The final meant meeting Clonduff again – this time with weather conditions much more levelled. Despite Eglish having a slight disadvantage at the beginning they quickly showed their determination to win and got some early scores. Molly Muldoon and Aisling Byrne ensured the ball stayed in the Eglish half and a range of players got their names on the score board. Although Clonduff battled strong Eglish looked fresh and continually applied the pressure to keep Clonduff at Bay. The work rate, heart and skill on display was inspiring and when the final whistle blew Eglish were overjoyed to win!
The day was a fantastic experience for the girls and coaches and the opportunity to not only play against teams from other counties but beat them will certainly stand to these young girls. The girls experienced all 4 seasons in one day and despite the changes it never dampened their spirit. The team work and effort was immeasurable and the honour of lifting the Pan Celtic shield went to a well-deserved Leanne Donnelly.
*A note from the coaches to Girls & Parents – A massive thank you to the parents and families of these young girls – having spent the entire day in Derry with them at the tournament, their manners, behaviour and spirit was exemplary. Despite some tough weather conditions they were upbeat, worked hard and demonstrated a fantastic example of our club. You should be very proud as is the club J
Also thank you for your contribution to travel costs – it is greatly appreciated.
Ulster Feile
The Ulster Feile takes place this Sunday 19th April. Eglish’s section is being played in Graemore. Girls will receive full details at training on Thursday.
Post Primary League
The Post Primary league begins this Saturday with a home game against Derrylaughan at 11am. Good luck to the players and management!
Underage Training
Training for Post Primary girls through to U18s continues in Pairc Cormac this Thursday, 5.45pm – 6.45pm.
Please always take boots and a water bottle and come appropriately dressed for the weather.
Tiny Tots Training
Training for P1s – P5s continues on Saturday mornings from 10am – 11am. We strongly advise all girls to come with their own stick or ask the club about purchasing one. Shin pads and boots are also recommended. It was quite cold last week so we also advise lots of layers!!
We would also be grateful if any parents were willing to stay for the hour and help supervise or assist the coaches with organising kids.
The first blitz of the year is scheduled for next Saturday 25th April in Edendork. The girls will be given details at training this Saturday morning.
Bereavements
The Camogie Club extends their deepest sympathies to the football Chairperson Kieran Hagan, and the entire Hagan family, on the death of his father Pat Hagan.